It’s true. When polled, most Americans feel uncomfortable talking about religion. I have a feeling this is what most Christians sense. I recall being in a conversation with someone I was playing basketball with at the gym and we got to talking about Christmas. After several minutes of sharing what Christmas meant to me as a Christian, I reached into my bag to give him an invite to a Christmas Eve service. With the look of terror on his face, the guy put his hands up to his chest and walked back a couple steps, like I just pulled out a gun. Talk about an awkward moment.
It’s this fear that keeps most from taking that risky step in dialoging about spiritual matters with others. I have good news for you. There is one factor that changes everything. When unchurched people are surveyed, they confirm there is one condition that would change everything: Relationship. As long as the person sharing their faith or invite was friend or family member, the unchurched person would welcome, if not invite, a dialogue about spiritual matters. In fact, eight out of ten unchurched people in this country would accept an invitation to attend church if it came from relationship they knew and trusted.
All this month we will be encouraging you to invite one guest to celebrate Christmas Eve with us here at BridgePointe. But the bigger picture is an understanding of epicenter thinking, that is our Christian reach starts with those closest to us. Here are some considerations this Christmas season:
1. Your first invitations should be to the people you know already. Among your friends and family, this would include people you see frequently, like neighbors, co-workers, your bank teller, students in your class, the dry cleaner attendant, the postal carrier, your kid’s teacher or coach, your dentist or doctor, and the manger at your favorite restaurant— those who could put a name to your face. These relationships are not in your circle of influence by chance. They have divine purpose. This Sunday, invites cards will be available in the lobby to pass along something tangible.
2. Be relationally intentional. The holidays take everyone “out” somewhere. What a great chance to pay special attention to people God puts in your path. Slow them down enough to greet them by name and strike up a sincere dialogue about them The waitress, the guy bagging your groceries, the front office attendant at your appointment, your next client, and the person sitting next to you at church have been divinely scheduled for you.
3. Be a part of our ongoing compassion ministry. This Christmas BridgePointe has reached out to families in a community close to us whom would appreciate our help. But a one-time generous act is not our intention. We will be returning to them, and others, time and time again to build relationships. Our greater goal is the hope that some individuals will discover faith with Jesus and become a part of our church family.
Never count out the relational factor. It changes everything …. and it will for you this Christmas.
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