We all bring a unique set of gifts and challenges along with us into our faith families. Being friendly is easier for some than others. But this is an important part of growing in life and in faith.
I am full of sorrow when I meet someone who says they have tried to attend a church, but they never felt they could fit in. They have sometimes said their clothing was not dressy enough. (Yes, eyebrows can sin.) More often they have spoken of stepping into a church where not a single person spoke to them. Yes, I know, you don't know every person in the church and if you speak first you might find you just asked the president of the church council if he was a visitor. So, have a chuckle and introduce yourself anyway.
Someone looks very sad and might cry? Perfect. Ask if you can help, pray for them, help them get a glass of water or a cup of coffee. Wear your name tags....yes, I know YOU know your name. HA HA But that name tag actually says "I'm willing to meet new people." and "I know where the bathrooms are, just ask me!"
And not all God's children are in the church building, so take a chance and share a smile. I recently was with one of my favorite people who we tease because he is always making eye contact and speaking to people. He did this at the grocery store Memorial Weekend and I watch a retired veteran who was wholly disengaged and decidedly sad-looking become engaged and smiling. This also provided an opportunity for them to share some practical information that just might make life a little better both of them.
You see, this kindness thing is not kindness if it only goes one way. If we make a big production of speaking to "one of the little people" that is just irritating. But when genuine, honest kindness passes between people everyone feels better for it, even those who just observe it happening.
Where can you give a little mercy, spread a little sunshine, offer a little of God's love using your hands and feet and voice today?
2 Peter 1:7
I am full of sorrow when I meet someone who says they have tried to attend a church, but they never felt they could fit in. They have sometimes said their clothing was not dressy enough. (Yes, eyebrows can sin.) More often they have spoken of stepping into a church where not a single person spoke to them. Yes, I know, you don't know every person in the church and if you speak first you might find you just asked the president of the church council if he was a visitor. So, have a chuckle and introduce yourself anyway.
Someone looks very sad and might cry? Perfect. Ask if you can help, pray for them, help them get a glass of water or a cup of coffee. Wear your name tags....yes, I know YOU know your name. HA HA But that name tag actually says "I'm willing to meet new people." and "I know where the bathrooms are, just ask me!"
And not all God's children are in the church building, so take a chance and share a smile. I recently was with one of my favorite people who we tease because he is always making eye contact and speaking to people. He did this at the grocery store Memorial Weekend and I watch a retired veteran who was wholly disengaged and decidedly sad-looking become engaged and smiling. This also provided an opportunity for them to share some practical information that just might make life a little better both of them.
You see, this kindness thing is not kindness if it only goes one way. If we make a big production of speaking to "one of the little people" that is just irritating. But when genuine, honest kindness passes between people everyone feels better for it, even those who just observe it happening.
Where can you give a little mercy, spread a little sunshine, offer a little of God's love using your hands and feet and voice today?
2 Peter 1:7
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