Many businesses these days have PR or public relations people who are the visible face and voice of the business. They are the one who present a positive image to the world. They advertise it. But have you ever though that you are a PR person for your church firstly and for Jesus?
I hadn’t thought if it quite like that until a friend recently said to me, ’You’d be a good PR person for your church. Oh hang on, I guess you already are.’
It’s true that those outside the church – our neighbors, friends, family and workmates are watching to see how we act and listening to how we speak. We need to ensure we are presenting a positive image of our church and of our Lord. How can you do this? One way is making sure you are welcoming to new people or visitors that come to your church. One of the things that initially attracted us to the church we currently attend was the friendliness of the people. It was something friends who joined us at church recently also commented on the friendliness and the concern for each other that is shown.
For some of us who are shy and not abounding in confidence, it can be hard to go and speak to strangers, but remember if you’re finding it hard, it’s probably even harder coming into a church full of strangers. How would you feel if you were in their place? I’ve been into churches where we have not been welcomed and it is not a pleasant experience. A smiling, welcoming face makes all the difference. It shouldn’t just be left to the minister or those who are on the door welcoming. It is something each of us needs to take part in.
So next time you see someone sitting on their own in church, why not go and sit next to them and strike up a conversation? Because whether we like it or not each of us is a PR person for our church and for Jesus.
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