Can Anyone See Her?

I know a woman who is faithful to God and to her church. She tithes regularly, tries to mingle with others, even does outreach outside the body of Christ. She would give her last dollar if someone needed it. She would rearrange her day if it meant helping someone in need.

She smiles often and tries to give encouragement to others who are hurting. She puts her needs second to everyone else. Oh, she isn't perfect. She has her flaws like anyone else. But that doesn't stop her from reaching out.

So what is wrong with this woman? What do others see that she can't? She talks of how she recently attended church and the rows of seats were mostly filled except hers. She was all alone in a room full of people. She couldn't understand why others would only look at her from afar. Was she not dressed properly? Did she not have enough money to "fit in"? Had they heard rumors about her that she didn't know of?

Her pastor's sermon that day was about the woman at the well who was an outcast to her own people. And how Jesus crossed those barriers to minister to her in spite of what others thought, even his own disciples. The pastor even made mention of how just the week before a new person came to visit church and was sitting alone. He said that during worship service he saw one of the church members walk over and invite this person to sit with them.

This woman said it was an awesome service anyway. God moved throughout the church and individuals got ministered to. Even she found herself at the alter. Praise God that He still moves and remains faithful in spite of our silly actions.

But how long will this woman continue going there? How long will she allow herself to be alienated before the pain becomes intolerable? How long before she throws her hands up and says, "I give up"? All she wants is relationships, to be loved. She is hurting and just wants someone to talk to. Is there anyone out there that will answer her plea?

How many churches get so busy that they don't see those who are hurting right there in the midst of them? It is our job to reach outside the church to minister to the lost, no doubt. It is also our job to take care of our own. Otherwise we are just bringing them in just to watch them fall away again, this time in worse shape.
John 4:1-19