A clergy friend of mine writes a blog daily.  In one of his posts this week he wrote about hearing through his network that those that who work in the hospitality industry find church groups to be most difficult to deal with because the complain a lot more than any other group.

This statistic sounds incompatible with the descriptions that Scripture gives us of what the church and its members should be.  So why do church groups leave the impression that we complain too much?  First, I am sure it is unintentional.  Second, I hold the assessment of the staff member that told my friend about the impression the church conventions make on those who serve them is correct.  The workers do feel there are too many complaints whether those who complain realize they are being a burden.

So how could we change to make a better impression when the
church gathers for conventions?  I think it is simple: treat every worker you meet the way you would if you were trying to get them to join your congregation.  You would do these things:

• Be kind in your speech.
• Smile and say customary “please” and “thank you” when appropriate.
• Show grace when something does not meet your expectations and if you need to report it, do so in a kindly fashion.
• Call them my name.  It only takes a moment to read their name tag.

We have the power to change the impression we leave wherever we go.  The question that remains is do we have the resolve to take the time to make a better impression?  I hope more people begin to say “YES” to this question!