It's quite unfortunate

that non-believers and some Christians alike haven't felt the presence of God.

People have their ideas set on what the church is and how it is or isn't supposed to be run. So many churches are so stuck in their tradition and rituals that they completely forget about the most important thing, Jesus. It says in Mark 7: 7-8 "They worship me in vain; their teachings are but rules taught by men.' You have let go of the commands of God and are holding on to the traditions of men." Churches have forgotten about Jesus, the reason for their existance.

Many people grow up in a specific denomination... Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist.. what have you. And many of those people never learn what it is like to have a relationship with Jesus. It is so much different than the teachings and the doctrine of the church. It's not all about making it to church every Sunday because you are told to or taking communion or kneeling/standing/sitting/praying when you are told.... its about Christ. It's about the word of God. Do you think God wants repetitive prayer? Do you think he wants to be a part of the same service over and over and over again?? God wants to manifest himself in the church.. he wants to be known, he wants you to feel him.

Our God is a loving God who wants a relationship with his believers. Not a group of complacent "believers" who show up only on Sunday to redeem themselves from the guilt they feel and then end up going right back to their ways.

Going to church isn't what gets you into heaven. Following the rules isn't what gets you into heaven. It is pure faith. Without going after and seeking God, what do you have???

Everyone needs to read Velvet Elvis by Rob Bell if you haven't already. That book says so much of what I want to say.. but the platform I stand on is so small.