We waited at the counter—but nobody seemed to notice.

At a certain fast food Mexican chain (no names here, but their logo might feature a purple bell), we attempted to pay for our lunch. Mind you, we’d already placed our order at the kiosk, so as not to “trouble” any of the workers with—well, customers.

We might still be there waiting were it not for a crew member who stepped out of the restroom and saw us stranded at the counter. She took pity on us, then took cash from us.

We’ve had the same “you-folks-at-the-counter-don’t-exist” experience at a certain golden arched place and other “quick serve” restaurants. Maybe you have, too.

It doesn’t seem to matter whether you’ve committed the unpardonable sin of failing to order at the kiosk. The simple fact that you’re standing at the counter makes you invisible and—dare I add, undesirable—to the average “server.”

I understand the need to prioritize drive-through customers. But this campaign of coldness toward folks that stop in rather drive through is just odd. These restaurants pretend to welcome customers but prefer just to sell food—quite apart from any interaction with any customer. Ever.

Question: Is that how we treat guests at church? “Absolutely not!” you say. “We’ve got a welcoming team in the parking lot, a welcoming team at the doors and….” I hear you. But I’m asking YOU about YOUR attitude.

Are our churches just selling spiritual food, or are we—every one of us—interacting with every guest we see? Are we cocooned with comfortable friends—or are we actively seeking to engage a stranger?

I admit to struggling here. Sometimes, I’m friendly and outgoing. Other times, I ignore newer folks like they’re standing at the counter at a fast-food place. But…

You’re a server.

I’m a server.

Let’s be very careful that we don’t treat guests as if they’re invisible or undesirable.

“Do not neglect hospitality to strangers, for by this some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

Hebrews 13:2