Naomi's Notes - 1/21/07
By now you've heard that Come as You Are is Immanuel's theme for 2007; it will also be the theme of this Sunday's worship services. Our Banner Group has been hurrying to create a couple of banners on this theme, and our Church Promotions Team has been working with our Media Team to produce two quality commercials that have been airing on TV since December. The idea is that people don't have to dress up or live perfect lives in order to attend our church.
However, Come as You Are is far more than just a catchy recruitment motto inviting people to visit our church, as if we're some sort of "club" where nice people do nice things. Come as You Are has been at the heart of Christianity through the ages. Just think of how many times you've sung songs like "Just As I Am" or "Whosoever Will." Just think of the many scripture verses (ex.: Luke 11:913; John 3:16; Romans 10:914; Ephesians 2:410) that address this theme.
The real invitation is to come any way we can to the all-loving God who is joyfully waiting to welcome us: casting all our cares and anxieties upon God's strong shoulders; communing with God in prayer; faithfully committing our lives to following Jesus; letting go of our stubborn wills, allowing God to guide our lives; humbly confessing our short-comings, letting God's forgiveness fill our hearts with peace; discovering the life of our dreams, letting God help us become the person we were created to be. As Richard Rohr has said, "Christian life...is a matter of becoming who we already are."
So, consider making 2007 the year when you come to God as you are .discover who you are....discover Who God is....discover Whose you are.
"Come as you are; God is waiting for you.
Come, bring your cares;
you'll find strength to see you through.
Come as you are:
God invites you with arms stretched open wide.
Come, follow your heart;
God will help you make a new start
So, gather all your dreams and come as you are."
See you in worship this Sunday -
Naomi