The Introduction

On a bright Sunday morning several years ago, my husband, Paul, who did not attend church, asked when services began. I was so thrilled that I slipped into a closet and whispered, “Hallelujah!”

As soon as we entered the church, I bragged to everyone, “Meet my husband, Paul!” Paul was embarrassed as I dragged him down the aisle to my favorite pew, announcing his presence. Despite my behavior, Paul did visit again. Since then I have learned how to be more sensitive when bringing a newcomer to church.

Introduce my guest to only a few friends. A guest needs to feel comfortable, as though he belongs, so a few simple introductions are appropriate.

Let him choose a seat. Invite my visitor to choose where he would like to sit instead of following me to the place where I belong and he may not.

Don’t let familiarity with friends or the situation distract me. Focus on worship and my guest’s needs.

Pray that the Lord will prepare my guest’s heart to receive God’s love.Listen to what God is saying to me — not what He might be saying to my guest.

God is in control. Even if a guest is doodling in his bulletin or reading in the book of Matthew when the pastor is in Jeremiah, I must trust that God’s Spirit is working.

Be ready. Don’t debate over the sermon but keep the conversation light on the way home. I will love and accept him right where he is, and be ready to answer questions.

Be patient. Maybe the guest will start regularly attending church. But this may be the beginning of an investigative journey with occasional visits. Either way, I have to rest in the knowledge that God’s timing is perfect.

Ushering loved ones into the kingdom is a privilege. A friend or family member taking his first steps toward rededication or salvation needs to be handled with care. Now when I bring guests to church, I pray, “Lord, help me remember I’m responsible for the love and care of others and You’re responsible for the results.”