Our church participates in an annual open-door event. It is a great opportunity to get to see more of the wonderful city we live in, as many places usually closed to the public are open and receiving visitors that day. I know that churches are open to all seekers all year round, but perhaps it is the cloak of anonymity that paves the way to step over thresholds of church buildings as well that day. And they come, hundreds of them.
Yes, the conversation might begin with an introduction of the magnificent stained glass windows and intricate details on beautiful paraments, but then it continues with smiling, joyful testimonies about God’s love and forgiveness that have transformed our lives. People are interested in who we are and what we do. But more importantly, they are interested in who is God and how to follow Jesus. These are sincere questions that take some courage to ask.
Thus, the stained glass windows, paraments, church bells and the whole church building are just tools used in ministry to worship God and to serve God’s children.
You are love, O God! May we praise you always with joyful hearts and radiant smiles. May we also recognize open doors and seeking hearts, ready to respond with outstretched arms and listening ears. Amen. — ES