“And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.” Galatians 6:9
Invitation Inspiration
Part I
Easter, KZone camps, Country Fair, Women’s Bible study, Christmas—just to name a few of the many occasions for which our church family provides shiny, colorful, informational invitation cards to freely pick up and give out.
My habit is to pick up 5-10 cards and keep them in my purse so that in my daily routines, I can be ready to invite whenever and whomever the Holy Spirit prompts. I’ve handed out these cards over the years to everyone from family to neighbors, friends, and especially those I encounter at various places I shop. Those are the ones that are the hardest to deliver. It’s not that I don’t have faith or believe it will make a difference, but honestly, my routine is usually the same, accompanied with the same internal dialogue.
It goes something like this: “I’m not sure if you already have a church or have plans, but I go to Little Country Church and we are having a special service on Easter if you are interested!” (Then I hand them a card with a smile, which is received by an obligatory and polite “thank you” or “oh yes, maybe! I’ll think about it.”)
Inside, I’m thinking, “They probably won’t come. They probably already have plans or another church or are irritated that I’m even talking to them about this.”
Anyone else have this experience?
But nonetheless, I continue to follow through handing the special cards each season, year after year. I never know what the outcome might be, but I know it is important to share opportunities that may lead others in our community to a place where restoration through Christ can happen!
This past Christmas season, I received my Christmas miracle when I believe God let me in on a glimpse of what can happen when we are faithful to obey. I met a young gentleman (I’ll call him Francisco for anonymity) during a shopping trip to make a video game purchase for my family. He was very courteous, and we exchanged small talk including the fact that he reminded me of a cousin of mine. At the end of the transaction, I proceeded to invite him to Christmas Eve with my normal scripted process. He mentioned that his church was having a special caroling service that night. I replied with enthusiasm how wonderful it was that he had a home church and that I hope he enjoyed the service. That was that, and I left after thanking him for his help.
Tomorrow I will conclude my story!
Heavenly Father, thank You for our church family and the resources You provide to help us in furthering Your kingdom. I pray that You will continue to bring others into this gentleman’s path that will draw him closer to You.
Yes I’ve had thoughts of thinking, the person I hand out an invitation probably won’t be going to our church event. However the truth remains the same that our Lord has it covered! How a small mustard seed will be the start of a grandiose event for the person the Lord has set in front of us!
Thank you Lord!
I had a different experience with the cards on the wall. Thinking I would join a group as they ask and not getting the warm feeling of welcome I had hoped of. I was so sick in bed weeks before and trying to make plans by text. I apparently irritated the person in charge of the group asking two too many details of what to expect. Everyone has bad days. But when someone is acting in the capacity of the church, it is odd to think of going to their home and getting a complete rude awakening when “the church” isn’t looking. When someone new wants to attend a new group, let them come serve in any capacity they can.
For the one who wasn’t welcomed….I’m so sorry that happened to you! Texting often leaves out emotion and feelings. Thank you for giving us all a reminder that how we respond matters ….always!!