John got a mixed welcome at the first churches that he visited. At the very first one he visited he just spent the whole time standing on his own at the back. He just didn’t feel comfortable. I’m not sure how much the church were even aware, but it seems like no-one approached him and he felt that he wasn’t the kind of person that people wanted to be around. It is small acts of love that make a bug differe.
The second church was one where he felt welcomed and listened to at first. But then as he continued to chat over coffee, he heard people gossiping about him. He never went back.
Finally the church where he settled had instant coffee! In prison that was what he was used to, so it felt familiar and comfortable. It was also wonderful that he was able to be introduced to people who could easily connect with.
For reflection:
As you reflect, what small acts of love in your church can you be thankful for week by week?
How might John's experience impact how you look out for people week by week?
Comments