A few weeks ago a friend of mine told me that before he became a Christian he thought he had to become a different person before God would accept him. He felt like the only way that he could come to church was if he changed first. You do need to let go of your past, but it cannot be done without God and the help of His followers.

 

It is up to us believers to reach out to these young people who feel as though they have to be a certain way before they can have a relationship with God. We have to make others feel welcome. I try my best to greet others with a smile no matter how bad my day has been. I know that when I feel down, a sincere smile from a friend or even a stranger can make me smile back.

 

As Christians we have to lend that positive reinforcement to others and make them feel welcome—so they can call on Jesus without feeling as though it is in vain.

 

What do I think needs to change in the church? God is love, and it is up to us to be extensions of His love to help others grow in the Spirit. So the next time you see someone standing outside the church looking in, don’t hesitate to smile. Sometimes actions speak louder than words.