New Faces, Faithful God
Have you noticed? Lately there have been some new faces in our seats on Sunday mornings. It is one of the sweetest sights a church family can see: someone walking through our doors for the first time, looking around, finding a seat, and joining us in worship.
Every new visitor is a reminder that God is at work. He has been faithful to bring people to us, and we don't take a single one of them for granted. Each person who visits has a story, and the Lord has led them here for a reason.
Three Families by Christmas Eve
As many of you know, we have been praying together for God to bring three new families to our church by Christmas Eve. We believe He hears those prayers, and the visitors we've welcomed in recent weeks are an encouragement to keep asking boldly.
With Christmas Eve just under two months away, let's keep this prayer close. Pray for the families God is preparing to send our way. Pray for the ones who have already visited, that they would feel at home here. And pray that our hearts will be ready to receive them.
Our Part: Making Connections
God brings people through our doors, but He invites us to be the ones who welcome them in. A warm hello can be the difference between a one-time visit and a new church home. Let's be diligent about making those connections. Here are a few simple ways to start:
--Look for someone you don't recognize. Introduce yourself before or after the service, and learn their name.
--Offer to sit together. Walking into a new church alone can feel intimidating. A friendly face in the next seat helps.
--Point the way. Show them where the nursery, classrooms, and coffee are.
--Ask them to fill out a connection Card. Give them a connection card and ask them to fill it out to receive the church email and texts about upcoming events and put it on Pastor Drew's desk.
--Invite them back. Mention an upcoming event, a small group, or simply say you hope to see them next week.
--Follow up. If you exchange contact information, send a quick note during the week to say you enjoyed meeting them.
Showing the Love of Christ
Jesus never treated anyone as a stranger. He noticed people, made room for them, and welcomed them with open arms. As His church, we get to do the same. Romans 15:7 reminds us to "accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God."
So this Sunday, and every Sunday between now and Christmas Eve, let's keep our eyes open and our hearts ready. Let's make sure every person who walks through our doors leaves knowing they were seen, welcomed, and loved. We can't wait to see who God brings next!