Keepers

Through tears and occasional smiles, she shared her truth—a reality so few had known was unfolding. Though she found grace upon entering the church, peace did not come instantly. Yet, her relentless pursuit of the Master’s presence has drawn her ever closer to the happiness she so deeply longed for.

Of all the pain triggers she spoke of, one stood out profoundly: the church’s drive to “win souls” but its frequent inability to keep them. Soul maintenance—that was the term she used. And it lingered long with me. What am I personally doing to stop this quiet exodus, this unseen drain of converts seeping through our collective pews? 

Although we all make our own choices and are ultimately responsible for our soul’s well-being, what kind of atmosphere am I, personally, creating for my spiritual neighbor. Am I sowing clouds of love with words of life, or am I—through harsh tones, passive neglect, or silent dismissal. Disconnecting myself from those who have their hand out at my window at the stoplight of the sanctuary. 

How deeply have we hidden the Word in our hearts that we might reflect His image to those in desperate need of love, care… soul maintenance? We all have a long way to go, but our journey to creating a home for lost souls and not just houses for Christians is not a path we have to trudge alone. Acts of love will never cease being supernatural undertakings.  May we learn to open our hearts to those who are hurting so that we will always play for keeps. So that those who feel lost along the way, will not stay lost as we go about our righteous way.

— YorkAli Walters