The Power of an Invitation
by Michele Husfelt
I recently attended a retreat, and as I observed the women sitting in the large circle, I became curious about the journey each of them took to arrive in that particular seat, in this particular location, “for such a time as this.”
Later that day, I conducted a survey that lacked scientific rigor and simply asked several women how they ended up at the retreat. Not surprisingly, most said they were invited by someone else. They received personal invitations. One lady saw an advertisement on Facebook, while another found it in the church bulletin. The majority, however, were invited by a friend, fellow churchgoer, or Bible study attendee. Invitations are important.
As we have just celebrated Resurrection Sunday, I spent a few extra minutes this morning contemplating what Holy week looked like to Jesus. Pondering His suffering and agony and anticipation of becoming broken for us, I am also reminded of my friends and neighbors who haven’t yet experienced His great love for our very broken world.
How do they go on? How do those without a personal relationship and faith in Jesus continue to walk in this fallen world with all the aches, pains, and hopelessness that would naturally accompany a journey through this life? I wrestle with these questions often as I look out my window and walk down my street, realizing the hurt, disappointment, and suffering that takes place behind the wreath-decorated doors with spring flowers blooming in the buckets on the front porches.
If I truly believe that Jesus’ death and resurrection make all the difference in my life, and He is the only true Hope in this world, why am I not more intentional about sharing His love with the hurting friends and neighbors whom God has placed in my life?
This week I pray the reality of the celebration that took place yesterday will continue to bring forth Hope as I face the days ahead, and I will look for opportunities to share the love of Jesus with those I encounter. May that same power that raised Jesus from the dead be alive in me more than ever before.
Who can you personally invite to church and, more importantly, share that resurrection Hope with this week?