the blog
Dusting off the Welcome Mat
by kristen
February 3, 2010 | Culture, Faith, Life | 3 responses
Over the weekend, I got to catch up with a dear friend–who happens to be agnostic. Due to our respective locations on different continents, we don’t get to talk nearly as often as I’d like. I caught up on the happenings in his life and told him about how much I’m enjoying my job at the House and being back in Kansas City. He expressed interest in visiting me here, but upon finding out the House is a Christian company, he asked, “Would I be welcome there?” I laughed. But then I realized he was being completely serious. And I stopped laughing. I didn’t know what to say.
When I met this friend, I had taken a step back from the Church and God (which I’ve mentioned in past blogs). Consequently, I didn’t paint for him a positive picture of Christianity. I don’t regret sharing my frustrations and doubts with him. I was simply being honest with my friend regarding my place in my journey.
Now, though, I wish he lived closer. I wish we could talk more often so I could do more than tell him he’d be welcome. I want to show him that even if he never chooses to believe in my God, he’ll be welcome. At the House. At my church. Into my life and my communities.
I challenge you to do the same: dust off your welcome mat (or at least shake off the dirt and leaves), and love your fellow human beings–even the ones different from you–as you’ve been called to do so by your Creator.
This week, just welcome, hope, and love. And see what happens.
Photo credit: everystockphoto.com
In the Discipleship Summit course at http://www.discipleshipplace.org, there's a statement about the number one reason new people step foot in a church. It is just because someone asks. Not for guilt. Not for a personal search. Just because they were welcomed by someone they knew.
Tell you friend that not only is he welcome but that you and your friends would love to show him around the studio. Go one further – you send out early book copies for review sometimes – ask him to review one you worked on (or at least, a chapter). He'll feel valued and you might just get him to read some good stuff along the way. He might even have some good suggestions from a different point of view.
That's a great idea, Patrick. I'd love to hear his perspective on our books. His European voice would definitely be a unique one. And hopefully he'll be able to visit sometime soon.
I am happy to have had a small part of your teenage/college years. I am proud of you Kristen.