Breaking All the Rurals

1 Timothy 3:1-8 gives clear requirements and prerequisites for “the call” of pastor/bishop. I believe the forgotten gift is HOSPITALITY (vs. 2). Maybe, it’s not so much forgotten, but possibly never taught to most. Teaching, preaching, vision, leadership, finance, are given attention for pastors, but not “generous to guests”. Visitors at our churches should feel more welcome than any one single attendee. Your home as a pastor should be a place that is frequented by guests. Lot demonstrates this urgency, as well as Mary, Zacchaeus, and others in Scripture. Here are a few tips to enhance your spirit of hospitality at your church and within your leadership:

#1 The Senior Pastor’s spirit will be the Church’s Spirit.
If the pastor is not hospitable the church will not be hospitable (which brings up another issue to address).
#2 Hotels!
Give your speakers, missionaries, leaders, a taste of your indigenous culture and some practical blessings.  A welcome bag can make or break a trip for a guest leader.
#3 Restrooms!
Your facility should have a generous spirit of hospitality in each stall, sink, towel and soap. This is not costly and adds an excellent touch for visitors.
#4 Greeters and Host!
Welcoming spirit, tours, energy, smiles, and gifts should overwhelm those guest attending your campus or your home.
#5 Website and Social Media!
Generosity and love should permeate our text marketing of events.
#6 The Poor!
God’s National Anthem is generosity to those in need. Let this ring clearly in your church’s vision.
#7 Kids Area!
Welcoming parents and being generous to kids is your church’s future. Start a cafe, cook pancakes, and high five volunteers as they drop off their precious children.
#8 Your Table!
The table in your home should welcome a guest. Seat them first, serve them first and overwhelm them with generosity.

There are many churches that do this well if you need additional help…contact them Fellowship Church, Granger Community Church, Church on The Move, Pentecostal Church of God…