Common Sense

Whenever I go to a Chick-Fil-A in Charlotte I am ALWAYS replied to with "my pleasure".  Now I know it sounds weird, but the employees saying "my pleasure" really makes me want to go back.  I know that if I typically go somewhere else I am rushed through, but at Chick-Fil-A I feel appreciated.  

How does this relate to the church?  Are people deciding to visit your church again because they feel appreciated?  Do they feel needed?  Or do they know you give a rip that they were even there?  It disgusts me sometimes when I realize how many people have come through the doors at Ridge Pointe that have not come back.  I believe that people will deal with not liking the music and/or not liking the preaching if they feel loved and appreciated.  This belief also exposes the disconnect between the church in general and sinners.

In a world that longs for connection why do we not connect with people?  It's a cop out to say we're scared or intimidated; I believe we're scared.  We're scared to get into people's lives and see who they are.  We're scared to see who we really are when we're faced with real issues.  When you deal with sinners you must deal with sin.  It's as simple as that.  Making a connection requires a sacrifice.  Get over the pride and fear.  Make a connection.  Make it "your pleasure".