Nail Shop Church

Yesterday I had my nails done.  I know, its a splurge.   Since my natural nails are weak, chipped and generally unsightly, I've decided to go see the professionals.  As I sat there, I wondered if going to church offered a similar experience.

I walk into the nail shop, which always looks the same, no matter which state its in.  After signing in, I'm escorted to a chair.  The nail tech sits across from me and asks why I am there.  Sometimes I ask him his name, but rarely does he ask for mine. As he works, he talks very little with me but extensively with his co-worker in some language I don't understand.  They laugh.   Scenes of Seinfeld's Elaine as the "American Princess" go through my mind.  As our hour together nears an end, he tells me to go wash my hands.  Then I pull out my wallet and give him some cash.  He says he'll see me again in two weeks.

I wonder what people experience as they come into our church.  Does it look like, feel like, smell like every other church on the corner? Do they sense we are genuinely interested in them?  Or are they just a name on a visitor card?  Are we speaking some sort of Christian language they just don't understand?  Are we so busy enjoying ourselves that they feel not only left out but actually uncomfortable?  Do  we insist they participate in some sort of ritual before we ask for money and send them on their way?  Are we so superficial that all they get from us is "see you next time"?   

Just asking.