Being Church

I was reminded recently again that people watch those of us that are the church. I was also reminded that when a church fails someone, the memories don't go away. I sat across from this person that told their story of how a church had been judgmental, unkind and unforgiving. Tears could not be held back as the pain again suffered. My only thought was why couldn't they just have been kind, loving, forgiving and patient!

But then I remember how I have been in the past. I know that I was not understanding. I know that I was not kind. And you bet I was not forgiving. The hurt, disappointment, the thought that "if this is the way church people act, then I don't want any part of that", no wonder they leave. No wonder they don't come back.

I just pray for all of those that have left that they could find a place where people are Jesus to them. I pray that they will give the church another chance. I pray that they will be able to see past our sins, indiscretions, failures or judgments. I pray that they will be able to experience what I have experienced - undeserving forgiveness and acceptance from a God that could turn his back on me, but didn't.

Let the church show Jesus instead of themselves. Maybe then the world will come to know the one that the church worships every day.

Sid