Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Romans 12:11
When I was taking the pup on a walk this morning, I really put on the miles. I mean I went all over. While strolling along, I was greeted by several squirrels that were loving life so much that I had to interrupt their game of chase so that they didn’t run into me. Such joy those animals had!
When I got into a busier area, I came across the special few that had huge smiles on their faces while giving me a hearty “Good morning!” I even had the zealous ones that were driving along while enthusiastically waving from their vehicles. Boy, I’ll tell you, that made me feel on top of the world! Those people emulated warmth that I would picture Jesus showing.
While walking passed a pretty white church, I came across a sign that took me back a little. It said, “No Trespassing.” Well, those people that showed such zeal seemed much warmer than the beautiful building all of a sudden.
It was bazaar because I’d think that would be the first place you’d want people to trespass! Please understand that I get where they were coming from and I did find other words that said, “unless for church business.” Again though, isn’t everything church business?
I’m sure they’re just trying to keep their parking lot from being overrun be visitors needing a parking place. Also, they weren’t the only church that stating their parking lot was for the church only, but wouldn’t that be a good outreach? Just think about it. Ha! They’re on our property now, free game!
We have to remember that a church is people not a building. The building is where you can go to find the church-the people.
I’d look forward to sitting down and having a chat with the smiling and friendly people out and about this morning. They represented the Lord with their happy spirit, but I have to be honest, I was a little intimidated by that sign this morning.
If I’d be reluctant to enter because I wasn’t sure of my welcome, I’d be concerned of missed opportunities for others. We need to make sure our buildings represent the warmth that is needed to have someone sit down for a little chat.
Always remember that you’re the Lord’s church. Serving Him means showing a warmth and kindness, like He did, with every person you meet. Make sure your face and continence doesn’t read “No Trespassing!”
Instead, have it say, “Welcome, it’s great to see you!” You just might make someone feel on top of the world, and they might pass on that good feeling to someone else. You could be the difference in the mood of so many people in one day with your enthusiasm. It could be a ripple effect and you were the stone thrown into the pond!
Someday, someone might question what’s so special about you that allows you to be so filled with joy. You’ll be prepared to simply say, “I serve the Lord.” There’s the church in action!
