The intention of Jesus’ church was to spread The Gospel, unify a community of people to do life with one another, share each other’s burdens, and be there for one another in times of need, but I often wonder if the ascetic and atmosphere of the American church reflects something quite different.
Today’s Churches are really good at creating programs and checklists, but I believe what we really in need is warm and welcoming environments—in addition to warm and welcoming people. We need people to know that when they attend a church, they will be embraced with open and loving arms.
Why should The Church be treated like a living room? Let me explain…
– Living rooms are where conversations happen.
– Living rooms are where people spend time together.
– Living rooms are where people cry together.
– Living rooms are where people laugh together.
– Living rooms are where people bond with one another.
– Living rooms are where people work things out.
– Living rooms are where people discuss hard things.
– Living rooms are where people dream together.
– Living rooms are where people discussion transition.
– Living rooms are where people find forgiveness.
– Living rooms are where people find hope.
– Living rooms are where people find comfort.
– Living rooms are where people share their pain.
– Living rooms are where people share their joy.
We’re called to be family.
No matter where someone is at in life, what they’re feeling or what they may have done in their past, love and embrace will be waiting for them in the comfort of a living room. We’re called to be family, and The Church should reflect a welcoming environment that anyone can feel at home in, regardless of their circumstances.
Will there be tough conversations? Of course! But that’s the beauty of viewing the church as one big living room. Real life can actually take place! People can be open and transparent with what’s really going on in their life.
This post originally appeared on JarridWilson.com and was republished with permission.
