I had a conversation recently that stuck with me. Someone told me about a church they'd been visiting with really nice people, warm smiles, and genuinely kind but something felt off. Every time they showed up, people rushed to serve them, to help them, and to take care of every need. And yet, after months of attending, it still didn't feel like home.

The reason? No one would let them help.

Every time they reached for a chair to set up, someone said, "Oh, don't worry about that... we've got it." Every time they offered to pitch in, they were lovingly waved off. The church folks had such good intentions and they were trying to be welcoming but the result was that this individual always felt like a guest instead of a member of the family.

That hit me harder than I expected... mostly because I heard myself in it. How many times have I said "Let me get that for you" or "No, no, I'll take care of it" thinking I was being helpful? Probably more than I'd like to count or care to admit!

Here's what I think we sometimes forget: belonging isn't just about being received; it's also about being needed. There is something deeply human about wanting to contribute, to carry something, and to matter to the people around you. When we never allow someone to serve alongside us, we may be sending a message we never intended: you're a visitor here, not a member of this body.

Scripture is pretty clear that the church functions as a body and every part has a role to play. When we unintentionally keep folks on the receiving end for too long, we're missing out on their gifts and we keep them on the outside of something they're longing to belong to.

So as we head into June, here's a simple challenge: the next time someone offers to help, let them. Hand them the stack of bulletins. Point them to the sink. Let them to pray with you. You might giving them the opportunity to belong.

Just something to ponder as we step into this new month together.