You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

This adage has been attributed to both Oscar Wilde and Will Rogers, but no one can cite a source.  The earliest confirmed use of the maxim occurred in a 1966 ad campaign for Botany Suits. Regardless of origin, the proverb recognizes the importance of first impressions.

According to the eccentricities of the United Methodist Church’s appointive process, I officially became the new senior pastor of Northside Church last Thursday, June 22, at 1:00 p.m. On Sunday, I preached my inaugural sermon at the two Traditional Services and the Contemporary Service.

Over the past weeks, I have fretted away many anxious hours, worrying about first chances and impressions. In such self-centered moments, I forgot that it’s not about me—it’s about faithfully serving the church of Jesus Christ in this time and place.

So I began thinking about the first impressions Northside Church has made on me.

• A vibrant United Methodist congregation in the heart of Atlanta
• Warm, loving people who profess and practice hospitality
• Dedicated staff members with an amazing array of gifts and abilities
• Entering the Sanctuary or Chapel, one steps into the very presence of God
• Traditional Worship that exemplifies the best of mainline, Methodist worship
• Contemporary Worship ROCKS—what an amazing worship team
• NO debt!
• Mission-minded Christians who know to whom much is given, much is expected
• 15 acres in the middle of Buckhead
• A Transition Team that has crafted a graceful process

You never get a second chance to make a first impression.

Based on my experience, Northside doesn’t need a second opportunity to make an eternal difference.