Researchers at Pennsylvania State University concluded from a study that huggers are happier. Another study linked people who hug with a diminished rate of sickness.
So, greet people you know with a hug and experience the joy and better health of showing people that they matter to you and God. That’s how Jesus and the disciples greeted others.
Also, don’t be afraid to step outside your circle of friends at your church and introduce yourself to someone you don’t know. It doesn’t have to be a visitor either. It could be someone you see every Sunday but have never taken the time to introduce yourself.
Stick out your hand, smile, and make them feel welcome. Then next Sunday go back and shake their hand again. A hug might come in time, but if it doesn’t that’s okay as long as they feel welcome. Your welcome greeting may change their life.
They may be need a friend. They may be looking for a church home. They may be looking for Jesus. John 15:12 says, “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.”
You may never know the difference you made in someone’s life by just taking the time to make them feel welcome. It can change their life and your life for the better. A handshake is great, but a hug is powerful. It is also contagious in a good way.
The greatest welcome greeting is still to come. It will be from Jesus himself someday. Matthew 25:23 says, “You did well. You are a good and loyal servant. Because you were loyal, with small things, I will let you care for much greater things. Come and share my joy with me.” Can you imagine getting a hug from Jesus?
If you or someone you know is looking for a church home we invite you to join us at the Sac River Church at either of our locations: 6821 W Independence Dr. Springfield MO 65802 on Sunday morning at 8:30 and 10:00 or our Event Center at 6448 State Highway EE Springfield MO 65802 on Sunday morning at 10:00 and 11:30 or Thursday evening at 6:00pm with dinner served. You may also join us live online at https://www.facebook.com/sacrivercowboychurch or https://www.youtube.com/sacrivercowboychurch
