Be My Guest! (Or Can I Be Yours?)

Tuesday’s Scripture Readings:
OT: Ezekiel 12
NT: 1 Thessalonians 2
W&W: Psalm 117

Today’s Reflection:

A question was submitted for our Towne Hall Meeting at Bethel Nazarene concerning visitation: “Are you and Lana visiting your flock in their homes or do Pastor Noel and Jean do all the visitations for the church?”

Concerning visitation, I’ve answered a similar question in my posting of September 3, but the phrasing of this question allows me to address it from another perspective.

First of all, Lana is visiting with me, but you cannot always expect her. She loves to come, but her schedule does not always match the need.

Second, when it comes to visiting “in their homes” I would say yes and no. If there is a need, and I am aware of it, and as time passes, I am going to visit in homes. But I am not making cold calls in homes. I call for an appointment or respond to your invitation to come to your home. I sometimes receive requests for a pastoral visit or input as to when a visit may be needed, and I respond appropriately. But I am not able to make it a practice just to visit in the homes of my flock. Time simply does not permit it. I enjoy being with my people, though. If you want to invite me over, I’ll do my best to get there! But, make sure some un-churched people are there, too! Let’s be wise and make the most of every opportunity.

I am thankful for Pastor Dale and Jean and the work they do. Dale works alongside me and visits as he is able. We are still working out a plan, but they way we have initially set it up is for me to visit pre-surgery in the hospital if I can and for Dale to follow up after the surgery. If an extended hospital stay is required, I try to make it back. I’m glad that Dale is gifted and available as he is! Isn’t God good to provide the leadership and service we need!

This Week’s Scripture to Memorize:
Matthew 16.25: For whoever wants to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for me will find it.