Who invited YOU?

A real conversation always contains an invitation. You are inviting another person to reveal himself or herself to you, to tell you who they are or what they want. –David Whyte


A lot of churches wonder what they’re doing wrong. They tell the world everyone is welcome, and maybe even fly a rainbow flag out front. They have a dynamic preacher; their music, whether traditional, praise or both, is terrific. But for whatever reason, people just aren’t showing up.

Where are all those spiritual people we hear about, anyway? Why aren’t they interested in us?

Wrong question, really. There has to be more to church and following the Christ than any of these things. Music changes, pastors move on or retire—but the core message of the gospel remains unchanging, and that’s what churches need to offer, today more than ever. That message is Love. And that message is for all.

There are two phrases that occur frequently in the New Testament: Don’t be afraid and Come.

Angels remind us there is nothing to fear; God is, at his very nature, Love. And in case we have any doubt whether that includes everyone, even poor, pitiful me, Jesus comes walking along the beach and into our lives, extends his hand to each one of us and says, simply, Come. Come and see what life is really all about. Join me on this adventure and be part of God’s creation and plan. It won’t be easy—and you won’t be alone. Don’t be afraid.

Jesus invited you. The guest list is long. Who will you invite? Don’t be afraid to reach out. You never, ever know whose life will be changed forever by a single word. Come.

Monday It’s finally feeling like spring! Look around you for signs of the season, and thank God for his faithfulness in every season. Ezekiel 36:25-27

Tuesday God’s creation is continually changing, becoming new or renewing. Resolve to try something new today: maybe a new food or a new exercise. Reflect. James 1:17-18

Wednesday This season also brings fresh smells all its own. Step outside, close your eyes and breathe in the fragrances that surround you. What did you smell? Psalm 51:10-12

Thursday Is there a garden in your neighborhood? A window box or potted herbs? Pause and look closely at what is happening in these places where food, shelter and so much more are produced-- for all God’s creatures. Give thanks for this miraculous process. 1 Corinthians 3:6-9

Friday Summer is coming, a time for weddings. Is there someone you know who is preparing to join his or her life with another? Why not send a note or make a phone call offering your love? Genesis 2:20-24

Saturday As you turn your prayers to yourself today, simply rest in the knowledge that life goes forward, sometimes with pain or difficulty. Through it all, God is faithful to you. Joshua 1:5

Sunday Another day to gather in fellowship and praise God for the gift of renewed life! Greet someone this morning whom you may not know well. Matthew 25:34-36


We simply can’t predict who will or won’t be interested in the Gospel, and building a friendship is not a prerequisite to inviting people to learn [more] about the Good News. –Clayton Christensen

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