The very foundation of Church is divine Love, God. And I've found that my concept of Church becomes less intellectual and more heartfelt when I put love into practice by making an effort to greet visitors to my church.
While the outward gesture is important, what's really vital is that we really care about the stranger. And feel an unconditional love. This is a healing consciousness that helps our church be a healing church!
Some time ago, a young businessman from out of state was sitting near me in church. I thought he seemed aloof, and as I needed to hurry out afterward, I was planning on ignoring him after the service in order to go about my activities. But as the service continued, I felt my hardness of heart softening. After the meeting I shook hands with him and sincerely expressed gratitude for his visiting us. He was most responsive, and we had a brief but very interesting talk. I then introduced him to a couple nearby, who talked with him for several minutes. As I left, you can imagine what joy I felt!
The young man wasn't neglected by our church—and we were each blessed.
