Don’t say NO for them.

By Tim MooreChurch, Vision

Last week I stopped by the Post Office to mail something.  It felt so foreign to even do that! Who mails things anymore?  As I was waiting in line, I heard the Post Office worker talking to the lady in front of me about Easter.  They were both reminiscing about the Easter family plans they used to have, but now their kids were grown up, so they do their own thing.  It was the perfect opportunity to help her find some new plans.

When it was my turn, I said to her, “Since you don’t have any plans for Easter, how would you like to come to my church?”  I handed her an invite for Easter, as I told her that our church was just down the street, and the conversation that ensued surprised me.   She said, “I’ve heard a lot of good things about your church.  Are you guys building something big on Gender Rd?”  To which I said, “Yes, we have plans to build there!”  She said, “You know something is good when it is blowing up!”  Afterward, she asked what we had planned for Easter, and then said, “I think I’ll come.”

I wasn’t surprised that she has heard great things about our church!  God is doing great thing through us as we try to affect our community. She seemed so open to coming to church, but it was almost as if she needed someone to invite her first!  I imagine, for people who don’t go to church, the thought of going to one might feel like walking into an exclusive private club without knowing anyone.  That’s a scary thought.  They might not be sure if they are really welcomed there.

Perhaps, the one thing that is holding your neighbor, co-worker, classmate or friend from coming to church is someone just simply asking them!  Maybe they want to be part of something that brings hope, but aren’t sure if they are really welcome or even allowed.

This Easter we have an opportunity to simply ask!  Don’t assume they would say “no.”  Don’t talk yourself out of asking and thereby say “no” for them. They might just be waiting for someone to actually ask them.

This week, I will be praying for every invitation that goes out for our church.  I am praying and believing that people will respond to your invitation and ultimately will respond to God’s invitation this weekend!

Just ask!

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