Tuesday, February 5, 2008

No One Pointed



Several years ago, my wife and I spent 4 nights at The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia.

www.thehomestead.com). It was one of the most unbelieveable experiences we have had in our marriage.

When we checked into the resort, the female concierge at the desk walked us all the way to our room. Every other place we’ve ever stayed simply pointed in the direction of our room or pointed to a very confusing map and expected us to wander around by ourselves.

After a couple of days, I noticed a pattern: Every time I’d ask where something was, the person would leave their post and take us to the desired destination. This small gesture was huge to me.

At the end of every conversation I had with a staff member, they always asked the same question: “Is there anything else at all I can do to serve you?”

In most places, if you ask for something, the answer might be “Yes,”… and then the conversation’s over. The people at this resort were always looking for additional ways to serve.

What they didn't know was that we had not paid for our visit. It was a gift to us. We were there without spending a cent($400.00 a night). It was by the grace of another that we were there. We couldn't afford it. We didn't even know it existed.

It didn't matter to the staff. They treated us as though as we belonged there. Sounds like something someone else did for all of us, doesn't it??

When someone walks into our churches, they don’t have a clue where to go. Instead of pointing towards the room for two-year-olds or toward the bathroom or toward the small group booth, we should stop what we’re doing and walk them all the way to where they’re going. Who knows? We might make a difference… or even make a new friend.

The Boomer Blogger

1 comment:

Paula Clare said...

Amazing, isn't it? How the kindest gestures are usually gifts of TIME. Even the few minutes it took to WALK instead of TALK you to your destination...what a gift...it's something we ALL are given each day. Why are we so reluctant to give it away for the sake of the Kingdom?