First times are always tough. Your first time having dinner with someone. Your first day at a new job. Your first social outing in a new town after a big move. Your first time is full of awkward comments, jokes that don’t land, and nervous glances. By the very nature of it being the first time, it can be difficult.

       Your first time at church might have been so long ago that you don’t remember. If your first time was when you were a baby because you grew up in church, then you can’t remember. But trust me, when you haven’t been to church in a long time or ever, that first time at a new church can be really difficult. You’re worried you’ll do it wrong, sit in the wrong place, be judged or unwelcome, or not make a connection. You’re worried it won’t be for you and just a general waste of time. You’re nervous.

       That person that shows up to church for the first time, that might be their only time to hear about Jesus. We need to take that seriously. We need to seize that opportunity. We need to do our best to make them as comfortable as possible, to allow them to see Jesus and the Gospel and not get hung up on first time jitters.

       So thank you for volunteer this week. The work you’ve done to get the church ready creates a prepared environment where people can relax. The greetings you give Sunday and the way you interact with parents and their kids allows their mind to relax and opens their heart to Jesus. These people are showing up nervous because it is their first time. Let’s do everything we can to make an impact the first time they show up. Hopefully, if we do, it won’t be the last time. Thank you for volunteering!