A high school girl wrote the following letter to a friend:
I attended your church yesterday. Although you had invited me, you were not there.
I looked for you, hoping to sit with you. I sat alone.
A stranger, I wanted to sit near the back of the church, but those rows were all packed with regular attenders. An usher took me to the front. I felt as though I was on parade.
During the singing of the hymns and contemporary songs, I was surprised to note that some of the church people weren’t singing. Between their sighs and yawns, they just stared into space.
Three of the kids that I had respected on campus were whispering to one another throughout the service. Another girl was giggling. I really didn’t expect that in your church.
Although some praise and worship music team members didn’t seem to think so, the pastor’s sermon was fascinating. They looked bored and restless. One kept smiling at someone in the congregation.
Several people left and then came back during the sermon. I thought, “How rude!” I could hear the constant shuffling of feet and doors opening and closing.
The pastor spoke about the reality of faith. The message got to me, and I decided to speak to someone about it after the service. But utter chaos reigned after the benediction.
I said good morning to one couple, but their response was less than cordial. I looked for some teens with whom I could discuss the sermon, but they were all huddled in a corner talking about the newest music group.
My parents don’t go to church. I came alone yesterday, hoping to find a place to truly worship and feel some love. I’m sorry, but I didn’t find it in your church. I won’t be back.
If reverence for God is to return to our nation it will have to start with God’s people!
Source: Sermon Central
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