You’re Invited

Andrew went to find his brother, Simon, and told him, “We have found the Messiah.”

John 1:41

HALL OF FAMER AND San Francisco 49ers receiver Jerry Rice is considered by many experts to be the best receiver ever to play in the NFL. He was once asked, “Why did you attend a small, obscure university like Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, Mississippi?” Rice responded, “Out of all the big-time schools (such as UCLA) to recruit me, MVSU was the only school to come to my house and give me a personal visit.” The big-time schools sent cards, letters, and advertisements, but only one extended Rice a personal invitation.

Personal invitations matter. Andrew invited his brother, Peter, to come see Jesus. And it was Andrew who brought forward the boy with the loaves and fishes so that Jesus could feed the multitude.

Elmer Towns reports that 86 percent of new converts say they came to church for the first time because of an invitation from a friend or relative.

Prayerfully look for opportunities to invite others to church. Don’t be discouraged if they decline. Don’t take it personally if they say yes to coming to church but don’t show up. Most important, don’t dump them as friends if they won’t respond as you would like. Be patient. It may take months or years. You may need to ask repeatedly. Pray that God will soften their hearts, eventually accepting your invitation. It’s really an invitation for them to meet Jesus.

BOTTOM LINE

Personal invitations are a powerful way to introduce people to Jesus. Pray for opportunities, and be bold.

Moment of Strength: Luke 14:13