This week I received an email from someone within our Presbytery who has recently found themselves drawn towards faith. They write about their experience of trying to find a space in which to pray and encounter God. They acknowledge that there can be many reasons why church buildings are not open on a daily basis but they ask us to think about how we might be more physically and visibly present in the rhythms of daily life.
I share this with you, not to add a layer of guilt upon those who are already carrying a huge amount, but rather as an encouragement. Like the Wise Men who are already on their way, here is someone searching for Jesus, in a quiet and gentle way.
There will be many whom we will encounter in the coming weeks, for whom Christmas is the one time in the year when going to church fits in with their rhythm of life. From carol services, to nativities, to the beauty of watchnights, we will welcome in those who are seeking something, whether they know it or not. Perhaps in the search for that which is familiar or comforting or peaceful, they will discover the One whose birth makes all the difference.
Therefore, I pray that as we open our doors extra wide for Christmas, we would take note of all who come in search of Jesus.
Rev Stella
Email in full - A Concern and Hope for a More Open Church
