Nice Shirt

The church service has just ended and I’m pacing my way out as quickly as possible.

A few meters away from the gate, somebody stopped me and said, “Glad to see you at church today, and by the way nice shirt.”

I was wearing my The Doors shirt.

I gave a quick thanks. Then quickly left.

Only a handful of people knew me. And I don’t intend to make friends for now because anonymosity takes off the pressure of being judged as a new church-goer.

Except today when you’re wearing a shirt that carries a statement on its own.

Rudderless, carefree, and rebellious.

Clothes really do define a person. And sometimes, a person’s past.

This was my story 18 years ago.

A young seeker finding my way around church. No idea about worship or theology.

I just want to know Jesus.

But even though I was new in church, nobody judged me by the way I looked or by the shirt I was wearing.

They welcomed me just as I am.

And because of that, church has become a safe place for me ever since then.

And it can be a safe place for everyone, too. Especially those who are genuinely seeking God.

So, if you see someone new at church today,

Welcome them. Greet them.

And maybe compliment their shirt.

You’ll never know how far a simple encouragement can go a long way.