When Well Meaning Christians Attack

What does a "seeker" look like to you? Can you tell that person when they walk into your church? Do they have it stamped on their forehead? What assumptions do you make about that person once you determined they are "unchurched"?

Obviously last night I did. I went to a Q&A for our west campus. My attendance has been about 20% this year, and frankly I was looking for a reason to change that. Unfortunately, I didn't find that.

I could go into the details of this lady that inspired my blog and why her final words of our conversation were, "it's ok, you're just a seeker and you'll find your way." I didn't realize I was lost. I won't go into those details, because frankly, they are not important to everyone else.

Of our 3 minute conversation ( or was it an interrogation?) she managed to sum up my journey in those words. You could argue that we're all seekers. Or that she meant well. But without recapping the conversation word by word, let's just say she saw me as a lost puppy with no clue where I was. She offended me.

I'm not used to people being up in my business like that and frankly, she needed to take 2 steps back. No one wonder Christians scare people. reminded me of the intensity of Mormon Missionaries. Of course, since we're good Christians, we know what's best and of course we are here to shepherd you and of course we know the right way. Right? *sigh*

Literally, I felt attacked. I have very little personal space, ask me anything and most of the time I'll answer it. This lady managed in less than 3 minutes to totally invade what little space I had.

How do we approach those we feel in need? Are we opening and welcoming to their point of view? Or do we make a bunch of assumptions and make sure those assumptions are know? Do we let the seeker (no matter their level) indicate what they need? Or do we tell them what is best for them?