For decades, churches have used bulletins to announce upcoming events. Today, these announcements include eye-catching graphics and online sign-ups. In addition, a notification even dings to grab one’s attention when an email or text arrives! On the other end of those invitations is a Pastoral Team member whose anticipation is that every recipient will quickly reply with an “I’ll be there!” After all, each event has been designed for the folks whom they serve in mind. Sadly, when a “waiting for a better offer” mentality becomes a societal norm, this hesitant-mentality negatively impacts the church.
Each Sunday, Pastors across America and around the world present a Gospel invitation to two groups of listeners. For the lost, the invitation is to place their faith in Jesus. For the believer, the invitation is to strengthen and demonstrate their faith in Jesus. Unfortunately, societal patterns impact eventually creep into the church. As the pattern of “waiting for a better offer” makes its way from the home to the church, is it any wonder that delays in committing begin to minimize the potential impact of the Gospel?
Centuries ago, on the shores of Galilee, four fishermen received a personal invitation to become disciples of Jesus. One interesting observation regarding each of these fishermen was that none of the men chose to wait for a better offer; rather, they chose Jesus and made a commitment to follow and serve Him. Matthew 4:18-22 uses two, one-word descriptions to describe their level of commitment: straightway and immediately.
So, what are your plans for Easter? Please don’t wait for a better offer. Make plans today to join our church family at Mikado for a heart-stirring, Good Friday Service, followed by two dynamic, Gospel-centered worship services on Resurrection Sunday! The offer has been extended, and we will be praying that you will join us as we celebrate Easter at Mikado!