JUST SAY HELLO

I think it is hard to be a member of a church. So much is expected of us. I am reading a new book titled UnChristian by David Kinnaman and Gabe Lyons that chronicles their research on attitudes towards Christians, and it isn’t pretty. Here is an excerpt from the website, "Christians are supposed to represent Christ to the world. But according to the latest report card, something has gone terribly wrong. Using descriptions like “hypocritical,” “insensitive,” and “judgmental,” young Americans share an impression of Christians that’s nothing short of . . . unChristian."

OUCH! I will share more with you as I get deeper into the book, but first let me make a simple suggestion. It might seem elementary, but it is one that can make a huge difference in someone’s impression of you as a Christian. The first step you can take to help change attitudes towards Christians is to just say hello. “Jen”, you say, “What are you talking about”?

I’m talking about looking around in worship and saying hello to the people sitting next to you. It’s that simple. "Jen", you say again, “I don’t know those people, or maybe they look familiar so I should know them but I can’t remember their names and I don’t want to embarrass myself”, or “Jen, give me a break, I’m shy and I don’t like to talk to other people”, or “Jen those folks look funky and not like people that I want to be hanging out with.” Excuses people. We cannot depend on the greeters and ushers to be the only members of this congregation who talk to guests. We should all be showing our Christian love by welcoming everyone who comes through our doors. I’m not asking you to hike around the sanctuary or chapel and greet everyone you meet. Just say hello to the folks next to you and see how their faces change. Notice how this simple greeting can make folks feel more at home and welcome.
Let me also say that I know what it’s like to come to worship for just myself & my renewal. Sometimes you feel so broken that it is all you can do just to get to church. I understand that. I am not asking for much…..just say hello.