Recently a friend of mine went on a spiritual quest. She wanted to feel the presence of God to enrich her soul. When she went to the nearest Catholic church she found the doors locked. She rang the bell at the rectory and nobody answered. The next day she called the church and was told the mass times and that she could make an appointment to meet the pastor and tour the church. This was a bit more than she was ready for. She became dismayed that she couldn't just walk into the church at any given time to sit and contemplate. When she shared her experience with me I listened patiently and then chuckled. "Someone stole the lantern outside the door, I can't imagine what would be missing if they left the doors open 24/7." I said as she began her litany of excuses why it was wrong for the church to turn away those seeking spiritual enrichment.
I found it symbolic of many people's attitudes toward faith enrichment. So many are quick to use a locked door, a negative news item, or a bad experience as an excuse to make an effort to let God into their heart. I don't recall any stories of Jesus going door-to-door asking for followers. Jesus spoke and people listened and followed. There is no magic that happens when you walk into a church. It is merely a reminder of what we hold sacred. A place to join others in praise and thanksgiving. It's just a building.
When we search for our true faith we need not look far. While it can be locked away from those who want to steal it, the key is always available. God is always there waiting, listening and loving. The place we seek is in our hearts. And to enrich our faith we need only to open our hearts and let God and others in.
