How was Easter? When I pastored, Easter was always a highlight of the year. I like Easter because it seems more of a focused holiday. It celebrates the most important event of history, the resurrection of Jesus! Also, it was always great to see an increase in attendance. : -) . For me, it showed a bit of the potential “reach” our church had in the community.

LET’S TALK…

A while back I read an article by Sam Rainer. He said that one of the most revealing questions he asks as a church consultant is this: “What gets your church most excited?” Or if you want a personal perspective, “What gets you most excited about your church?”

According to Rainer, here are a few things the answer to that question reveals.

The answer reveals passion. The term exciting implies enthusiasm. When people reply about what gets them excited, you have an idea of what drives their passion. I’ve heard a wide range of answers—from theology to programs to buildings to mission to preaching. Rarely are people negative about their passions, so their answers reveal what they feel is most positive about their church.

The answer reveals priority. What is exciting is often a priority. If you are passionate about something, then you often elevate it above other things.

The answer reveals perspective. Is their excitement in the past? The present? Or the future? Excitement in the past usually points to a lack of excitement in the present. Excitement in the future could indicate a person perceives the church moving in a positive direction, or it could indicate they are hopeful things will change soon.

The answer reveals personality. Each church has a different personality. Some churches are more extroverted than others, and new people are exciting to the congregants. Some churches are more thoughtful, and people get excited about caring for others. Some churches are generous, and there is excitement around giving to God’s kingdom. The excitement of a church is often an indicator of the personality of a church.

One question will not uncover every important part of a church. But asking about what gets people excited reveals a lot of information in a non-threatening way. It’s one of the more common questions I ask in my consultations and in even in my own church. I enjoy hearing the different perspectives in what is almost always a pleasant and positive conversation.

 Originally posted by Sam Rainer

BEFORE YOU GO…

So, what gets you most excited? Maybe what got you excited about Easter reveals something about your passion and priorities.  I’d love to hear from you!