At the end of each sermon in our worship services, we extend the Lord’s invitation, and then we stand and sing a “Song of Encouragement” (a.k.a. “Invitation Song”) to “encourage” folks to respond to the Lord. While this is an expedient to the preaching of the gospel, it has proven over the years to be a beneficial one and worthy of continuation.
It has astounded me in recent years the increasing number who are responding every week. Well, I’m not talking about the ones who respond by walking to the front of the auditorium. I’m thinking of the ones who are responding in reverse—the ones who, “as we stand together and sing,” walk to the back of the auditorium, walk out to their cars and leave. While the congregation is singing to encourage, the exodus of many is its own “Song of Discouragement.” Friends, why are you leaving?
I am NOT talking to those who have to get to the restroom and cannot wait another minute. I understand that, and most of you are coming back into the auditorium before the worship ends. I am NOT talking to those who have young children to whom you need to attend. I am NOT talking to those who are running late for work and cannot wait another few minutes. There are certain situations that are understandable. But how many folks fit one of those categories?
I AM talking to those who don’t really have a reason for singing an “Un-Invitation Song” by walking out. Perhaps you’ve just had “too much church for the day.” Perhaps “the sermon went too long,” and therefore, the worship service went “too long.” Perhaps you just have other things you want to do and you’re “done with church” for the day. Perhaps you’re seeing the exodus of others walking out and figure it’s a good time for you to “slip out.” Friend, can I share with you how discouraging your exit is? I am confident that “discouragement” is not your intent, but I am telling you that it is the result.
Can I tell you what you missed? One Sunday you missed someone being baptized into Christ. One Sunday you missed one of your brethren, who is really hurting, asking for prayers. One Sunday you missed a wayward Christian coming home. Those were really good days! You missed singing, praising God and edifying each other through song. You missed praying and joining our hearts in one final moment of worship. You missed visiting with your church family, laughing, hugging, handshaking and being encouraged all around. And…YOU were missed!
May I encourage you to stay and join in our mutual encouragement, instead of singing a “Song of Discouragement”? You are loved! You are wanted! You are needed!