Peek-A-Boo!

Are we playing peek-a-boo church? Share 

Every adult has played the game of peek-a-boo with a small child at one time or another. Hiding our face behind our hands and then peeking out to the giggles of the child. Is this a game we play in church?

Before you answer this question or cease to read any more, let me ask you another question. Are you comfortable being the real you when you are among church members? Are they seeing only a glimpse of the real you; and are you getting only a peek of the real them? Is the church a place where you feel accepted for who you really are? Even more importantly, are you willing to accept others for who they really are?

Authenticity or genuineness is a rare commodity in church. Yet, it is perhaps the single most necessary quality for a health church.  Nevertheless, most people attending church today don’t feel comfortable being real. 

Why?

The reason is a dirty little secret that few wish to admit. Most church members feel they will not be accepted by others, or they will be judged as being spiritual deficient, or even worse they will be pitied; and in most cases this is exactly what they will receive. Therefore, there is little public confession and even less true burden sharing. The church, as a body, loses one of its primary functions to encourage and build up its membership.

Sadly, this lack of genuineness is perceived by those outside the church. We can preach about Christ acceptance to a lost world; but why would a sinner seek to confess his or her sins if the church is not truly willing to accept its own?

A functioning church of the Lord Jesus Christ should be the lighthouse of acceptance and a place where you can be the real you and still be loved and accepted. I ask again, are you playing peek-a-boo church? Follow @pastorbarr

“In the last analysis, what we are communicates far more eloquently than anything we say or do.” -Stephen Covey

Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another… (James 5:16 ESV)

If you enjoy Pastor Jim's Wit and Wisdom, you will love his book! For His Glory: A Kaleidoscope of Wisdom is a collection of meaningful and powerful reflections from real life experiences coupled with practical biblical wisdom. Find out more and take a peek inside by clicking here!