Go into all the world and make disciples of all nations,
Jesus told his disciples before his ascension,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you to the close of the age
In these Sundays of Easter – the fifty days leading up to the gift of Holy Spirit that came at Pentecost, Jesus made many appearances to the disciples after his resurrection that we will be hearing in scripture and from the pulpit. His final words to his disciples was to commission them to continue his work and mission; to baptize, preach and heal in His name. That is the commission we receive today as Jesus’ disciples in the world today. WE ARE the body of Christ – there is none other.
I often hear people say to me, “I wonder where so and so is … I haven’t seen them in church for awhile.” Or perhaps someone will tell me, “I met a new visitor in church this week … I hope they return.” While I appreciate all these ‘heads up’ comments, the job of welcoming the stranger, inviting them to worship or to a small group, following up with those who we no longer see, is NOT only the pastor’s job. It belongs to every part of the body to look out for, and take care of, the others. It is a responsibility we all share as ‘The Community of Christians, Uniting for Service’ which is our mission statement at COCU.
As I was visiting with a prospective member, I heard that this couple liked to sit in the back because they sometimes needed to use a restroom and didn’t want to disturb others. However, when they took a back pew seat, a member pointed out to them that that was “their seat”! And when the couple slid to the other end of the pew to accommodate the member, ANOTHER person said the same thing on the other end of the pew! I was flabbergasted to hear this story from someone others had made sure I was ‘welcoming’ into our church family … and just as surprised this couple has continued to attend.
This is not even ‘going into the world’ to welcome a stranger – but showing simple hospitality to someone who has tried to find a welcome here. When we ask for ‘volunteers’ to take communion to our shut-ins, many bags are left for the pastors to deliver. We visit regularly; but how delightful if another member of the church would ‘adopt’ someone who is no longer able to come to church.
I understand it may be difficult to approach a stranger; but that is how someone becomes a friend. It is delicate to call someone who is no longer coming; yet that is how they know they are a part of our community and have been missed. Member Care and Member Development are joining to offer a course for our members: Opening the front door- and closing the back door. It is a hands-on training in listening, sharing our faith, and welcoming both the newcomer and welcoming back the non-attender. I hope many will join us on Monday evenings from 7:00 to 8:30 for this six-week course beginning April 19. Go into all the world – or just next door – be inviting; for together we are the body of Christ, and individually members of Him.
I’ll See U in CH_RCH
Pastor Carol
