Every Sunday morning, two distinct groups walk through our church doors.

One group arrives with crossed arms as they are dragged by spouses, pushed by parents, or shopping for a new Church that compares to their favorite one. They’re listening for something disagreeable as they sit through worship and listen to the sermon.

The second group comes hungry for community and hope. Life’s been tough, and they’re genuinely seeking help. Maybe a friend invited them, and they’re excited about growing together.

Both collections of people find precisely what they’re looking for. Those seeking flaws spot the off-key singer or outdated carpet. Those open to being blessed will experience God’s presence and find hope.

Our Church leadership works hard to remove the reasons that the first group might discover, along with adding features to make the second group feel more at home. Still, all of these people will find what they are looking for when they visit. The question isn’t about our worship quality or friendly greeters; ultimately, it’s about the condition of our hearts when we approach God.

The next time you walk into Church, examine your heart first. Are you looking for reasons to stay distant, or genuinely seeking to encounter the living God?

Your answer will determine what kind of Sunday morning you’ll have.