The hurting.

Over the past several weeks my heart has been going out to many families who are hurting.Without going into any details our church has seen a rapid growth as many families have been greatly hurt by an other church that was their church home.
It brings such a vivid memory of what brought me to the church I presently attend.
As I was sitting in worship today seated next to one of these families a flood of emotions flowed through my mind.
It is my hope and prayer that we will be able to reach out to these families and help heal their hurts.They may be with us for a long time or maybe just until some issues are settled.What ever it is it is my hope and desire that we be there with open arms to lift these people up.I pray that God uses me in a special way to step out of my comfort zone and talk to these people,and to make them feel welcomed.I only hope I can make them feel as welcomed and loved as I was when I was hurting and started attending .I pray that God gives me the right words and to refrain from sticking my foot in my mouth.( I've been known to do that).
It is almost like loosing a loved one when you leave family and friends from your church.Let us be their new family.
I encourage you if you see a new visitor in your church to welcome them and shower them with Gods love.They may just be in need of a warm smile, or just a friendly hello.
Gee there you had your second sermon of the week.
Hugs
Mr.Brian