Friendly, Attentive, Speedy, Thoughtful
Teresa Poucher
How do you feel about servers? (waiter or waitress)
A good restaurant always warmly greets people as they enter.
F: Friendly – We want someone friendly to be our server. Even if someone else does a good job, this server makes us feel good because they are friendly.
A: Attentive – We like it when a server sees our needs without us having to flag them down for a refill. If you are eating something messy, they bring you extra napkins. They will describe the entrees if you’ve never eaten there, as they know what they serve.
S: Speedy – We want a server who is aware of the time and doesn’t waste it. Your food is delivered while it’s still hot, not sitting on the counter getting cold. They are quick to respond to your needs.
T: Thoughtful – The server brings young children a cup with a lid on it without you asking. They know if a child needs a booster or a highchair, and they may even get you a wet paper towel or a wet wipe if needed.
Since I once worked as a waitress, I can relate to the servant. Many times, a servant’s role is disparaged. On the other hand, being a server can be rewarding. It’s not a glamorous job, but it can be a great experience.
Jesus showed us how to be servants by example. Mark 10:44-45, Philippians 2:7, John 13:1-15
F: Friendly – Our churches are like restaurants. People come because they are hungry. The first thing we need to do when they walk through the door is to greet them with a friendly smile. They could have gone to any church, but they are with us,and we are glad. We want them to KNOW we are so happy they are here, like the wonderful aroma of good food; may they smell the sweet aroma of praise to our God.
They might not understand the menu (i.e., the Word of God). We desire to help them get what they are hungry for. We have what they need: Love, understanding, caring friendship, and people who will help them find what they need in Jesus
A: Attentive – We need to discern their needs. They might be unaware of their own needs, other than that they need God. We need to be watchful when they are ready to place their order, so to speak. Timing is everything — too soon, they will clam up; too late, we missed it.
S: Speedy – We need to respond quickly. We don’t know if they will be back again. We must try to reach them. “Quench not the Spirit…” (1 Thessalonians 5:19). Move quickly when the Lord speaks to you, or you’ll talk yourself out of obeying.
“And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.” (Acts 2:2-4)
T: Thoughtful – If they are alone and you click with them, sit beside them. Anticipate their needs. Do they need a tissue, a handshake, or a hug? Always a warm,genuine smile. Rebecca served the camels water, and we know she took many trips. I probably would have served Issac’s servantand left him my bucket thinking, “He’s lucky he can use my bucket and water his own stinky camels.” (I need a little more of a servant spirit.)
When Jesus went to Gethsemane, the Bible says, “he went a little farther.” We need to give them what they haven’t found at church before. Visitors should never walk out our door after service without someone telling them, “I’m so glad you came.” At MyChurch, we are here to serve.
The Warrior’s Heart Cry 