Submitted by David Shadinger, Pastor of Rock Port & Watson United Methodist Churches

The local faith community should be one of the most welcoming and safest spaces we know. In a world of chaos and isolation, the church can be a place where people feel welcome, make meaningful connections, understand God’s story, and learn to live like Christ.

It begins with an honest and warm welcome. Church members need to think less like guests and more like hosts. Guests look for their friends, sit where they are comfortable, and judge the experience by what they like and appreciate. Hosts look for others, make room, and consider the comfort of their guests. The church needs more hosts.

Then we connect. Whether through a greeting, a shared prayer, or a simple conversation, discovering that we are not alone. We belong to something larger than ourselves.

Next, we should work to understand each other. The stories of Scripture remind us that God’s saving work did not end in the distant past. God is still at work, and we are part of that story and that effort – every single day.

Finally, we must act. Following Jesus changes how we live in this challenging world. Instead of hoarding what we have, we share. Instead of destroying our enemies, we seek to love them. Instead of cursing those who hate us, we pray for them. Instead of seeking revenge, we practice forgiveness.

We do not do these things because they are easy or we are naturally good. We do them because our lives are shaped by Jesus – the one who loves, prays, forgives, and gives generously.

So, let’s make the church a place where people want to belong – a place to know others, deepen their relationship with God, and bring their families. We can create that kind of church when we welcome, connect, understand, and act.