I released a new book today. It’s called Unwelcome. The book is all about things churches do that drive first-time guests away—more than that, it’s how to turn it around and be extremely welcoming.
That’s two books released in two months. Two completely different topics. Created for More is a devotional to help creative minds commune with the creative God. Unwelcome is a manual to help churches care for visitors.
While they’re completely different, they’re both something I’m completely passionate about. They’re both major parts of my voice. I thought today I’d talk about how to find your unique voice and capitalize on that.
I’ve heard it said that your ministry will come from the things that break your heart. What breaks your heart?
For me, I’ve seen way too many artists within the church let their relationship with God grow cold. I’ve seen them running, running, running to give their best for the church, yet forget to give their best to God. This is something that breaks my heart, so it made sense for a book.
I’ve also met people who literally thought my church was too full—that we weren’t looking for more people to come through our doors. “I was thinking about going to your church the other day, but it looks like you guys already have too many people at your church. I’m sure there isn’t really room for me.” That broke my heart. And I know my church wasn’t the only one that has given this impression to their community.
Those are the things I wrestle with. Those are the things that break my heart. And that’s my voice.
So I ask you: what breaks your heart? And how can that heartbreak lead you to help others. How can you solve the things that tug at your heartstrings?
That’s your voice. I encourage you to speak.
