Genuine Welcome

Recently, I saw a church located in a busy downtown area. A sign in the yard at the rear of the church first caught my eye. The chuch name was followed by the phrase, "Where a warm welcome awaits you." My interest was peeked about the impact of that sign on passers-by and what specifically they did to offer a wam welcome. On the front sign was a similiar, more straight forward message. Below the pastor's name was the phrase, "Welcome All!" Just next to the front sign, near a short wall by the public sidewalk was yet another sign. It read, "Private Property. Do not sit on the wall. No smoking." Instantly, I wondered how welcome a wall-sitting, cigarette-smoking seeker in need of the love of God would feel at that church. My guess is that they would be unlikely to enter despite the positive message on the two other signs.

I can not help but think about my own life and my church. I say I want to be a pastor that welcomes and embraces everyone. I preach this Gospel of Love is available for every man and every woman regardless. What do the signs of my life, my attitude, and my church communicate, though, to those passing by who are stressed or in bondage and who need to find rest? Does my welcome go beyond a public relations placard? If not, then it does not even exist.

Regardless of whether we as individuals or churches get it or not, God offers a genuine welcome to all without stipulation or reservation. "Come to me all who are weary and I will give you rest," Jesus said. Today, first know that God extends a genuine welcome to you regardless of what you are facing or where you are in relationship to Him. Second, evaluate your own willingness to be open to other people and ask God to allow your welcome to be genuine.

Blessings,
Pastor Gary