Mary and Joseph had to stay in the stable because there was no room in the inn. Too many census travelers and not enough rooms!! Christmas is a time when you can expect visitors and even unexpected guests at your services. So make sure you are prepared and accommodations for guests at your church this Christmas are visitor friendly.
Have your best greeters on duty to make people feel welcomed. People who can give directions to restrooms, nursery, or answer questions about the church. Encourage your regular attendees this Sunday to be especially guest friendly on Christmas Eve. Do not mind if someone is sitting in their pew Christmas Eve ( no glaring down the pew) or if there are restless children in the sanctuary (turning around and staring.) Imagine Mary having to deal with shepherds—smells and sheep!!
In the midst of all the commercialism of the season, Christmas Eve is a time when people are open and can hear the ‘good news’. Their returning after Christmas may depend on if you made room for them on Christmas.
