https://www.focusonthefamily.com/episodes/broadcast/transforming-lives-through-foster-care/
my wife and I were able to share encouragement to over 2000 local radio stations that carry the Jim Daily show and talks about the reward of foster care ministry.
We share our story in our book Fostering Jesus and encourage others to do what they can as well.
Www.fosteringJesus.org
The Value of a Handwritten Note to First-Time Guests
In today’s fast-paced, digital world, personal touches often get lost in the sea of emails, texts, and social media messages. That is why a simple handwritten note from a lead pastor to a first-time guest can have an incredible impact. It communicates something that no mass email or pre-printed postcard ever could: you matter personally.
When a guest visits your church for the first time, they are often testing the waters, looking not only for biblical truth but also for a place where they can feel connected and loved. A personal note acknowledges their presence, expresses gratitude for their visit, and extends a warm invitation to come again. More than that, it reflects the heart of Christ, who valued the individual and made time for personal encounters.
The Apostle Paul wrote in Romans 12:10 (NIV): “Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves.” A handwritten note is a small but powerful way of honoring a guest. It says, “You are more than just a number in a seat. You are seen, valued, and welcomed into our family.”
From a leadership perspective, this practice also sets the tone for the entire congregation. When the lead pastor—the spiritual shepherd of the house—takes the time to write a personal message, it models the culture of care and hospitality that every church should strive for. It reinforces the idea that ministry is not only about preaching from the pulpit but also about shepherding people one relationship at a time.
A note creates a tangible keepsake. Unlike a quick conversation that might be forgotten or an email that gets buried in an inbox, a handwritten message often lingers. Guests may place it on their refrigerator, desk, or nightstand, serving as a quiet reminder of the kindness they experienced at your church.
In a world where people often feel invisible, this small gesture can break through walls and create a lasting impression. The ink on paper carries more than words—it carries heart, time, and intentionality. It’s a reminder that the church is not just a building or a program but a family who cares.
So, while it may seem old-fashioned, the value of a handwritten note from the lead pastor is timeless. It is a ministry of encouragement, rooted in Scripture, that can open the door for deeper relationships and continued spiritual growth.
How many times does it usually take?
Key factors that make a guest feel at home:
Consistency builds comfort. People feel at home when they are known by name, needed in community, and noticed when absent.
A Branding Journey:
I am on a journey to brand my ministry across social networks and I have never done this before.
I am working hard to link everythign up and am committing to upload content from the 23 years of ministry experience I have.
Pastor Kevin Taylor from Journey Church in Kenosha, Wisconsin once told me years ago when I graduated with a Doctrate in Ministry leadership to now “go use all that knowledge you have aquired and give it away to others”
He challenged me to not just learn but to apply. So it’s been a few years since he told me that but its time that I start putting that into practice.
If you are willing to help me - Please subscribe to my youtube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@DrRobertGriffith
I have 88 subscribers and need to hit 100 to open new features and allow for a custom url.
Thanks for your help as I begin building ministry leadership content to help the emerging generations of leaders.
Thanks!
Forgiveness is one of the most difficult—and most freeing—commands in Scripture. It’s not natural to let go of hurt. Our human instinct is to hold on, replay the offense, or seek revenge. Yet Jesus calls us to live differently. Forgiveness is not just about releasing others from their debt—it’s about releasing ourselves from the chains of bitterness.
Jesus was clear about the central place of forgiveness in the Christian life. When Peter asked how many times he should forgive someone—“up to seven times?”—Jesus answered:
“I do not say to you, up to seven times, but up to seventy times seven.” (Matthew 18:22)
Forgiveness is not optional; it’s a lifestyle for those who follow Christ.
We forgive because God first forgave us. Paul reminds us:
“Be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, as God in Christ forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)
Every time we extend forgiveness, we mirror the grace we ourselves received at the cross.
Holding onto unforgiveness is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to suffer. Bitterness corrodes the soul. The writer of Hebrews warns us:
“See to it… that no bitter root grows up to cause trouble and defile many.” (Hebrews 12:15)
When we forgive, we free our own hearts from being enslaved by resentment.
Forgiveness doesn’t always mean forgetting or immediately restoring trust. Boundaries may still be necessary, especially in situations of repeated harm. But forgiveness opens the door for God’s healing work, even if reconciliation takes time. As Paul writes:
“If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” (Romans 12:18)
Ultimately, forgiveness is not about minimizing the wrong done to us—it’s about magnifying the cross of Christ. Jesus prayed from the cross itself:
“Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)
If He could forgive in His darkest hour, surely we can lean on His Spirit to forgive those who have wronged us.
Forgiveness is both an act of obedience and an act of freedom. It heals relationships, softens hearts, and reflects the love of Christ. Who is God calling you to forgive today? Don’t wait until you feel like it—choose forgiveness now, and let God handle the rest.
“Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you.” (Colossians 3:13)
Church Growth Tip:
Growth doesn’t start with numbers—it starts with relationships. When people feel genuinely seen, heard, and valued, they don’t just attend church—they belong to it.
✅ Focus on personal connection before programs.
✅ Equip your leaders to know names, not just faces.
✅ Build a culture of hospitality where people encounter Christ through community.
The Bible reminds us:
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:35)
“Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7)
“And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” (Acts 2:47)
Healthy relationships create healthy growth—and numbers will follow.
What’s one thing your church does to help people feel connected right away?
Throughout Scripture, God’s people faced pain: As a Husband, Father of six, Ministry Leader, and Christ follower, I have seen my share of ...
