First Impressions are Lasting Impressions

When was the last time you walked into our sanctuary for worship and looked around as if it were the first time? What if you were to walk in next Sunday and pretend like you’ve never worshiped here? What would you notice about us? You’d likely notice how friendly we are and the beauty of our sanctuary. You might admire the stained glass windows and wonder at pipes of our organ…considering what type of sound they might create. Perhaps you’d compare our space with other churches you’ve visited.

I asked a visiting child, one time, what they thought about our church compared to their own. This precocious child said she thought her church was ‘richer’ than our church. I thought the answer a bit funny, but held back a grin and asked her to elaborate. Her response was that her church had a newer building with newer furniture and things, so, to her, that meant her church was wealthy and ours was not…because our stuff was old.

I thought her response was adorable, but also insightful. The first thing she measured about our two churches was the perceived wealth. I can posit several reasons why this might have been, but considering the consumer driven culture in which we all live, I think it is safe to assume that her ruler had less to do with worship and more to do with the things of the world. BUT, what about the adults who visit us? This innocent conversation with a little girl set in motion a stream of consideration about who we are, how we worship and what impression newcomers might have of First Christian Church when they arrive.

It does not matter to me what her church’s annual budget is or how it compares to ours. I’m fairly certain she has no idea what a budget is or to what purpose one might serve. What matters to me is whether or not a visitor knows the presence of God is near, knows that the people gathered here have a tremendous love for Christ and a willingness to follow in his footsteps. I want to be sure that everyone who comes through our doors knows what is important to us in that worship hour: our devotion to a loving and compassionate God. I want visitors to know that Christ’s joy has been made complete in us. I want our worship time to reflect these things and so much more.

This is why we it is important for you to join us in worship planning. You have an opportunity to help others experience Christ’s joy made complete in His body: the church. The Renewal Team’s efforts with worship planning teams have nothing to do with changing our style of worship. It is about planning ahead so we can create meaningful worship experiences together. Please consider joining us in this effort.

Blessings,
Tracy