“Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.” Philippians 2:4 NIV
On my way to church, I pass several pretty good-sized churches. Sunday was no different. Turning the corner by one of the largest churches in our county, I glanced at the parking lot. Most parking spaces were filled except for a half dozen near the front of the church. Each of them sported a large placard that said “Visitor.”
Immediately the thought went through my mind, How sad. A church with so many members and none of them had invited a friend.
Then I started making excuses for them.
They are too busy with their own lives to interact with others.
They don’t think their friends would like to attend church with them.
They don’t even think about inviting friends to church.
They don’t really like church anyway and don’t think anyone else would like to come.
They don’t want to impose their faith on anyone else.
They may have an interim pastor and are waiting on the new one to invite people.
This list could go on and on…
Obviously I can’t answer why this church had no visitors. However, the sight caused me to think of not only people I should invite to church but also other life areas where I was so distracted I never thought others. Many days I have blinders on, not even thinking about other people in my sphere of influence or anywhere around me.
The picture in my mind of empty parking spaces will serve to remind me to reach out to others. What about you? Is there someone you need to reach out to today?
Lord, take our blinders off and help us to see and meet the needs of those around us.
Linda Gilden is a busy writer who tries to look for the important things each day. She loves to find God’s gifts hidden among worldly distractions. Linda is the mother of three children and three children-in-love and grandmother of six of the cutest children ever. www.lindagilden.com.