A Different Kind of Church Guest-

As a pastor I get many letters. Some are encouraging and some are well, quite disturbing. In all my years of pastoring I have never received a letter from someone who was a guest at our church. But here's a first! They didn't stay but sent the following letter some months later:

Dear Pastor and Church Family,
So many times, people go through churches, and for one reason or another, they decide not to remain and leave without saying anything to the pastor or the people of the church who have been so kind and giving to them. Unfortunately and regretfully we find ourselves guilty of this, and we would like to say to your church family that we are very sorry.

As we believers look around trying to find God's will for our lives in terms of a church home, it's easy to think only of ourselves and not consider how people coming and going may affect all of you who dare to share your hearts with visitors. A short time ago, our family visited your church. You graciously opened your arms and hearts to all of us. If we left, selfishly saying nothing to you, please forgive us for our inconsiderate behavior.

May the Lord bless your "house" and may He give you the grace to consider us your friends.

Wow, what a gracious and loving letter. I have had people who have been members for years up and leave and never say a thing. This restores my faith that there are people out there that are sensitive to the Holy Spirit, know how to walk out Christian love, and depart on good terms thus maintaining friendships.

We all can learn from this letter-- Thank you Jesus!