Three times in the last month people have commented on how much they appreciate the welcome they get at our church. I talked to someone who used to go to our church, and moved to another state, and as they looked for churches they really missed how they were greeted, welcomed, and hugged as they came to church each week. Another person told me, on their first visit, that they had been lonely – and couldn’t believe that people greeted her, and even wanted to ask questions and talk. A third person mentioned how he loved that our church was smaller and people really seemed to care about each other. I asked him (with a wink), “How long do you think a church that really cares for each other will stay small?”
At Covenant Grove Church, EVERYONE is a Greeter. Sure, we have a greeting team, and they are amazing. And it is everyone’s job to be a Greeter on Sunday morning. That means we pull out of our conversations to talk to people. It means we keep an eye out for those who don’t have someone to talk to, and pull them into our conversations. It means we hug, laugh, and have fun. It means we listen and pray with people. We are a family, and everyone is welcome, and everyone will be greeted like a hero coming home.
In Luke 15:6, Jesus shares that when a lost sheep is found, the shepherd calls together his friends and neighbors and says, “Rejoice with me because I have found my lost sheep.” Every Sunday is a time to rejoice! We rejoice with every person who has chosen – against the grain of most people on Sunday morning – to come and worship the Risen Lord. We rejoice and bring others around to rejoice with us. Every person is greeted with joy – and each Sunday is a party (even if we are having a really bad week) where we celebrate the work of God. God is transforming lives and showing us the power of authentic devotion – knowing and loving Him changes everything.
So on a Sunday morning – remember that you are a Greeter – and make sure you are doing your job!
Amen, let’s keep it going.