September 2, 2007

 

A Full Service Congregation

Unfortunately, it’s a much more common experience than it should be. You find yourself leaving a restaurant

saying, “The food was pretty good; but I don’t think we’ll be going back, because the service was lousy.”

It is strangely ironic that at the same time the “service industry” has been expanding, more and more businesses

have been adopting a “self-service” policy toward their customers. Our taxi driver in Nairobi was amazed when

we told him that it was nearly impossible to find a gas station in the U.S. where an employee of the station would

pump your gas, much less wash your windshield or check under the hood.

While you may be tempted to join in the chorus that mourns the dearth of people committed to helping you

maintain your car, find something in a store, or deliver food to your table; you may want to consider the remarkable

opportunity the church has to distinguish itself as a “full service” organization.

The call to Christ is the call to serve—to serve Cod arid one another. Paul reminds nearly every congregation he writes

that it is essential that they remember their responsibility not only to worship God, but also to serve one another. For

Paul there is no such thing as a “self-service” faith.

As we gather Sunday morning, we’ll explore what it would take for our congregation to be known as a church filled with

extraordinary servants. Sunday evening we will gather at 6:00 for a “Service of Healing” where we will celebrate

Holy Communion and then anoint and lay hands on those who would like to receive the gift of God’s healing power.

People notice exceptional service. They will put up with mediocre food and mundane surroundings, if they feel like the

employees are committed to meeting their needs. I pray that everyone who attends St. Mark leaves bragging about

our service.

 

Ashley