The Potential Of Invitation

When I was in middle school, the Youth Pastor of our church invited me to a Youth Convention. I had no idea what a Youth Convention was, but I thought I would check it out and see what it was about. That Youth Convention was life-changing for me. I became friends with a guy who would quickly become my best friend and one of the major influences in my life. I will always be thankful for the invitation to go to that Youth Convention.

When I was a freshman in high school, the Track Coach approached me and asked if I would be interested in joining the track team. I felt honored that he asked me to join the team. It turns out I was exceptionally fast. I ended up setting lots of records, as well as gaining some much-needed confidence in myself. I’m so glad Coach Kelly invited me to join the team.

When I was a sophomore in college, I applied for a Missionary Internship Program because one of my friends invited me to. I ended up going to Maui to work with a Church Planter. That internship set the direction of my life.

The point is, some of the most important events in my life happened because someone invited me. I’m guessing that if you take the time to think about it, you would discover that invitations have played an important role in your life.

When Andrew met Jesus, he was convinced Jesus was the Messiah. He invited his friend Simon to come meet Jesus. In time, Jesus changed Simon's name to Peter and gave him the keys to the church. It goes without saying that Peter was thankful his friend Andrew invited him to meet Jesus.

Easter presents us with a special opportunity to invite people to church. Easter happens this Sunday, April 20th which means you still have time to invite someone to our Easter Service.

Who knows—
The person you invite might respond to the gospel and have the course of their life forever changed.

I’ve been reading studies and reports lately that say right now, in light of the cultural shifts and instability taking place in our country, people are more open to an invitation to church or to a spiritual conversation than ever.

I want to strongly encourage you to invite someone to church this Sunday. If they can’t make it, don't be discouraged—invite them to come when they can.

He is Risen,

Steve