I am so crazy excited to celebrate the resurrection of the Savior this weekend! One of the things that I love about it is seeing people get excited about the "new life" symbolism behind "new things"... Baby chicks, baby bunnies, a basket of sweet treats, colorful eggs, pretty dresses, and smart new suits, and for many a trip to church for the first time this year.
For those of us who are lovingly engrafted already into a church home the crowds there may seem inconvenient. We may even resent some of the "commercialism" of this sacred and reverent holy day. But let us not miss out on the openness that this holiday creates in peoples hearts to spiritual truth. Here are some ways we can "make room" for the Holy Spirit to invade the lives of those who thought they were just dressing up and coming to church to make Grandma happy...
1. Go to a less popular service time if it works out OK for your family. You will have fewer worries about the crowd and there will be more seats available for others in the prime-time services.
2. If you will be expected to host a meal or plan an egg hunt, try to get as much done as possible ahead of time so you will not be distracted or stressed during the worship time. You'll want to be focused on the true meaning of the day.
3. Park in the back of the lot. This lets the guests who might even be rushing in late have the most convenient access. I'm sure your sweet male family members would not mind dropping you and the kids off first.
4. Don't get too stressed about clothes. No need to put that added financial or time pressure on yourself. It's best to be there and be comfortable. You may also want to prepare yourself to see some clothing that may be more revealing than should be. Give these folks extra grace, not judgement. Let the Holy Spirit bring them along in this area as they meet Him and grow.
5. Prepare your heart. Get to bed at a decent hour. Prepare as much as possible overnight. Eat breakfast so you won't be grumpy or impatient. Give yourself extra time to get there and take the kids to the restroom. When you arrive, be pleasant and courteous. Smile and make friends feel welcome. Be ready to share your row or your seat. Pray for those who will meet Christ and His Bride for the first time. Pray that the eyes of needy hearts will be unveiled and will be opened to Jesus and His New Life. Pray that you would be able to worship with a fresh sense of the victory Easter brings.
80% of people who don't go to church or call themselves believers say that would come to church on Easter if they were invited by a friend. Take this chance to extend love and grace to someone this weekend. Let them know that new or dressy clothes are not required. Be sure to invite their children to attend the special children's services. After all, precious souls are why He died. Let's celebrate the Hope of New Life together with happy hearts!
Yes! Yes! Yes! Yes! and Yes! {Love this! Thanks, Lori!}
Posted by: Gina at CampClem | 04/05/2012 at 01:49 PM