We welcomed back Maeve to our little gathering this week and interestingly, Maeve’s message was all about being welcoming!

Maeve told us about a series of incidents and happenings whilst on a little vacation in the Cotswolds.  She met a lovely old gentleman by the name of Wayne in a place called Upper Slaughter, who, after chatting for about half an hour, invited her back to the local hotel for a free coffee morning along with some people from the village. Wayne never mentioned the name of Jesus once or church, yet he was so warm, friendly and welcoming that it made a lasting impression. When she arrived at the hotel she was told that the free coffee morning was for local people only! Not so welcoming! But when Wayne arrived he told the group that Maeve was his friend and that he had invited her! Maeve remarked that Wayne’s church is the church she would like to go to!

What a contrast to the razzamatazz of Vice President J.D Vance and his large entourage visiting friends in the area. The local people were not at all interested or welcoming!

It led Maeve to think about Jesus and the ‘triumphal’ yet humble and lowly entry into Jerusalem riding on a donkey (Luke 19 v 28-40). No fanfare, no razzamatazz!

What was it about Jesus that made Him attractive to people? Most of the crowd stopped, looked and connected in some way. And that makes us think  about how we are perceived in church. Is it all about trying to be relevant to attract people like having a drum kit and offering great coffee and biscuits?! Surely, it is Jesus that makes the difference and connects us all and makes us attractive to those who are seeking!

Let’s be gentle, kind, friendly and welcoming to all we meet.