Welcome them all

"But the crowds found out where he was going, and they followed him. He welcomed them and taught them about the Kingdom of God, and he healed those who were sick." Luke 9:11 NLT

Walking through the doors of the Hope Anthem Church Sunday, I didn't know what to expect. My friend and I had never been to this house of worship in Ottawa, Kansas before and had only packed running attire since we hadn't expected to be done with the race that brought us here in time for Sunday service. But from the moment we arrived, clad in our athletic tights, running shoes, knotty buns, and race shirts, we were welcomed. "We're glad you could join us," were the words we heard upon arriving and "We hope you'll come back," were the words we heard upon leaving. Wow. Shouldn't all churches be this welcoming? Of course they should. 

Unfortunately though, that's not always the case. You see, whether you and I want to believe it or not, church is not always a welcoming place. Especially for those who don't look or act like the rest of the congregation. Newcomers might feel looked down upon because of the way they dress or shunned for being a visitor and made to feel out of place. But you know what? That's not the way Jesus intended church to be. Jesus expected us to follow His example and to "welcome" all who are looking to follow Him so they can be taught about the "Kingdom of God." 

So I wonder my friend, are you doing everything you can to make people feel welcome in your church? I sure hope so because doing so could very well mean the difference in someone making the decision to follow Jesus or walking away and never looking back. 

Heavenly Father, thank You so much for the example that You set for us to follow by welcoming all those who come to seek You regardless of their appearance or status. Help us to do the same Lord that the lost might be reached and come to know You because of it. It's in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

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