4. Visitors and people who invite them.
Visitors. Could we grow the church and sustain it longterm without them? Of course not.
Every person in the church today, unless they were born into it, started as a visitor. Every new church member and every new opportunity to add someone to our discipleship efforts starts with a visit. I love people who invite. I love those who come when invited. I just want to hug them all. (But I promise not to hug you on your first visit … or ever if you prefer, because I want you to visit. Visit. Visit. Visit.)
5. Servant hearts.
When I see a man or woman in the parking lot, or a baby rocker in preschool, or someone who says, “Pastor, I’m here to help you any way I can,” I am encouraged to keep going. Their enthusiasm for serving others encourages me.
6. New people joining the church.
The church is a family and every pastor loves when the family grows. When people who have been visiting start coming more often, and eventually decide this is the church family … WOW! Exciting!
I may try to look like it’s a normal day, because I don’t want you to think we are desperate for new members, or scare you as I shout real loud, but inside, I’m bursting with joy.
7. When the church is the church.
I am encouraged when I hear someone is in the hospital and a church member has already made a visit. I get excited when I hear of needs … that have already been met. When the church behaves like we were called to behave, without a staff member or me having to lead the effort, I’m energized. Elated. Blessed.
There is my list.
