What is the price or value of a soul?

$215,000.

That’s the price that Walmart has put on each of their customers.  

Recently I watched a documentary on CNBC about the inner workings of Walmart.  It was a very interesting program. One of the main things that stood out to me is that Walmart has done extensive research into their business.  If, for example, I go into my local Walmart store and get bad service; can’t find what I need; have to wait in the checkout line too long; or anything else that really makes me upset, Walmart knows that they have a lot to lose.

In fact, they’ve calculated the value of what I’m worth to them.  If I get mad at Walmart and never return, I have just cost the company (on average) $215,000.  That’s how much sales they have figured they will lose from the average customer over their lifetime if they don’t come back.

Walmart puts a high value on me and every other person and family in my community.

Many churches, on the other hand, seemingly couldn’t care less about the people in their community.  We’re too busy arguing about carpet color, worship styles, and how much to ‘give’ to missions, all the while missing the main point of reaching our community for Christ.

Walmart provides diapers and socks and hemorrhoid cream for a profit.

The church offers eternal life and salvation for free.

Shouldn’t our communities know we value them at least as much as Walmart?

Here’s today’s question for you:  Does your church value people more than Walmart?  If so, what does that look like in your community?