Being a change maker...

   For the past few weeks, we have been having discussions at church about the way we have been 'doing church'. For many churches (regardless of religious affiliation) have had to reconsider the way that they 'do' church. Very little consideration is taken for the guest that comes in the church and visits trying to find a church home. How do we treat them? 

   Our approach should not be to smother them, yet we should not ignore them, either. Everyone who comes in the door for worship is carrying loads of baggage. We must approach every person with the respect they deserve and offer to 'carry their spiritual bags' for them. 

    1. Welcome them as you would a guest in your home. 

    2. Remember, no one comes to church by accident. There is a reason they are there.

    3. Without being too overbearing, find out what led them to come today.

    4. Introduce them to your church friends. Be wary of the approach - don't be overbearing.

    5. If they are shy, don't stand them up all alone to 'welcome them' to church.

   I believe that we have become a little skittish about inviting our friends and/or family to church. It is so vital in this day and time to let them know the value of a life in Christ. We should also constantly be aware of how we minister to the guests that come through the doors. We never know when we might be entertaining an 'angel unaware'. 

God bless!

What does 'Church' mean to you?

   I have spent the majority of my life attending or serving in the church. I have had a love and passion for God and His church since I was about five years old. Serving God and His people mean a lot to me. When I went to college and became an ordained minister, I went on 'the other side' of ministry: paid clergy. My journey took me to many places in the 13 years that I served. 

   An unfortunate circumstance of moving so often was that I became jaded about God, Christianity and the Church. It took a while for me to find my passion for God. In that journey, I was able to observe the church from a unique perspective. As a layperson (regular churchgoer) who had served as a pastor. I began to think about church and service in a totally different way. While I was learning, my heart began to yearn for those who have left the church and not returned.

   This is where I need your help. Where are you in your spiritual journey? Are you serving God? Are you even attending church? I am not writing a book: I am simply curious about where you are in the journey. 2015 is going to be a year of transition in my life...email me about your journey. Send it to revrod88@gmail.com. Thank you!

Resolutions....and new beginnings

   I have never been a person who has made 'resolutions' at the beginning of the year. However, the new year provides us with opportunities for new starts. 2014 was a year of great transition for my family and I; we had the greatest joy in September when we our son married the love of his life. We also experienced loss when I was released in October as a teacher at a charter school. 

   In that particular loss, it gave me a moment to reflect on what I was truly seeking in my life. In the transition, it has reopened doors for me that have been shut for years. God has been stirring my heart to a return to full-time ministry. What that entails, I have no idea. 

   As you begin the new year, take the time to reflect on the past year. See what has happened and if there are changes to be made. Rather than 'resolving' to improve your life, seek out what God would have you do. If you need help, email me at revrod88@gmail.com .