The master said to the slave, “Go out into the roads and lanes, and compel people to come in, so that my house may be filled.” Luke 14:23
Today was a beautiful, early fall night. We decided to have a campfire with another family. Very low key and wonderful. We encounter someone we both sort of knew, not really deeply connected to the worship life of the congregation and invited this person to join us. She declined.
Note: Inviting is hard, especially when people say no. But I always say they can’t say yes if you don’t ask! But it’s hard, even for me. But we are called to keep inviting. Not just “to church”. But into community with other people of faith. Maybe around a campfire. Maybe onto the boat. Maybe our to lunch. Maybe to worship. Who is God compelling you to call in?
Sometimes we feel vulnerable. Afraid someone will see what we ourselves are afraid to see. Afraid to celebrate joy when we are coming from fear and scarcity. We can only love others as our dearest brothers and sisters. Give them the warmth of our hearts and see the living God within them. Always trust that the Holy Spirit is calling them to communion with God and to recognize that He loves them exactly as they are.