I do it all for the sake of the gospel, so that I may share in its blessings.
(1 Corinthians 9.23
NRSV)
But when Dr. Craddock arrived, he noticed something. He noticed that none of the new people in town--the people who had come to work on the big government project over at Oak Ridge and all those people living in trailers and hastily built shanties with all those children--none of those people were in that church. Craddock called the church board together and told them, "We need to reach out to those folks who are out here. They are close. Here's our mission." And the chairperson of the board said, "Oh, I don't think so. They wouldn't fit in here." Craddock protested, "But they need the gospel. They need the church." "No, I don't think so," said the chairperson. And the next Sunday night the board passed a resolution, "Members will be admitted to this church only from families who own property in the county."
Years later, Craddock took a trip back to that little town. He searched out the church and found it. It was still a pretty place. But out in front of that pretty little church was a sign that read: "Barbecued Chicken, Ribs & Pork." It wasn't a church anymore. The church had died. It was a restaurant now and it was full--full of all kinds of people, sitting in those pews, eating barbecue. The building was packed and Craddock said to his wife, "It's a good thing this isn't a church anymore. These folks would not be welcome."
Are you and your church welcoming those who really need the gospel of Jesus Christ?
Loving God, open my heart and my church to those who need to hear your love. Amen.
