Over the past few months, there have been an extraordinary amount of new faces at The Journey. Weekend after weekend I’ve met people for the first time and seen many other guests stroll by me in the lobby. God is growing his church. Those of us who’ve been here for months or years are seeing our hopes materialize – and we’re grateful.
Lots of new people equals growth. Growth is exciting and fulfilling.
A few weeks ago, I was standing in the auditorium taking communion during the second gathering. I received it in the first by thanking Jesus for dying for my sins and rising again. But the second time was different.
I ate my little piece of bread, and as I went to drink my juice I felt an impression in the form of a question:
“Who did I do this for?”
And it struck me all over again: Jesus didn’t die for people who are already saved. He didn’t come for the whole, but for the broken.
Here’s the connection: there are a lot of new people gathering at The Journey every weekend. But I haven’t been inviting very many more. I’ve gotten caught up in other things. Serving a growing church. Structuring, strategizing, staffing, even seeking God in prayer… but not inviting.
I believe what happens on a Sunday at The Journey can absolutely transform a person’s life. It’s happening every week. But aren't there enough of us now? We’re going to survive as a church. We’re big enough to make some kind of difference in our community. Some people will happen upon us at this point whether you or I invite them or not. Isn’t that enough?
No.
There are lots of new people gathering at The Journey every weekend. But I want there to be even more. Not so we can feel good about ourselves. But because so many people in our area are wandering spiritually outside of life in Christ. It’s our job to help them find Jesus and follow him fully, and I believe that nine times out of ten the best way to start that is through an invitation.
So I'm stepping it up. Monday night I met Dylan and Kate at a local restaurant. Dylan and Kate are dating. Dylan and Kate don’t do the church thing. Dylan and Kate are going to check out The Journey.
Lots of new people are gathering at The Journey every weekend, but there’s always room for two more. Because that's what it’s all about. Not buildings and bodies and budgets, but Dylan and Kate. Your coworkers, family members, neighbors, and friends... and mine.
Jesus died so they could be saved. Do we need another reason? Invite someone.
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