It's a lot of hard work

It requires someone to extend a warm welcome as the guest enters. 

Thinking through the process from the front door, to the seat and following through when they leave.

To name tag or not.

To pronoun or not.

What language are we using; visitor or guest. Does one envelope the stranger more than the other?

A serving list that has to be current. 

Finally.....

Greeters at the door.

Those of us leading and shepherding live in the bubble that all of those things are the hard work. 

We see it from an process perspective because we are the ones standing up front, keeping all the balls in the air and wanting to create a warm atmosphere that settles people from the beginning. 

Yet....

Being the stranger entering a foreign land requires

a search

clicking through pages of information

What time do they start? 

What is the mission of the community of faith?

What's the dress code?

How far away is it from my home?

Is there true diversity represented in the Body of Christ?

If a decision is made to sojourn to the foreign land

another set of uncertainties arise?

Is the parking accessible? 

Which door do I really enter?

Where are the restrooms?

Will someone speak to me?

Where do I sit? Am I going to take someone's place?

Will I know the hymns/songs?

Do I sign my name; do let them have my mailing address or email?

Will they bombard me with emails or text if I sign up?

Do I have on the right clothing?

Will I find meaning in the message?

Could I return, and if I return will someone notice my return?

Wanting someone to not just say hello but to see the hard work, the being present in a foreign land. 

Wanting a welcome not just at the door but in a sending for the week. 

A desire for engagement, the asking of what's brought you here today....we're so glad you chose us be with here...can I tell you anything about who we are or do you have any questions about the service that I might answer. 

It's a lot of work for the stranger to enter the foreign land where the rituals are unknown, landmines are unseen, the self is exposed and trust is held gently in the heart.

Remember it's not just a lot of hard work for the shepherds but it's a lot of hard work for the sheep who are wandering into your fields.  The sheep want to be fed, connection with community and to feel as though their hard work of getting there is valued.  

Finding and connecting to community is a lot of hard work.