Dear church lady from college,

You may not remember me, but I was a lost and confused college student when I walked into your church sanctuary. I had been once before with a friend, but this time, I ventured out alone. It was a brave move for a shy girl. 

You greeted me with a warm smile and said you remembered me. I felt seen.

You said I could sit with you, grabbed my hand, and pulled me to your front pew before I could think to protest. You didn’t know me, but you talked to me like a friend – like I belonged there.
It gave me the courage I needed to continue my journey home.

You see, I was raised in church and saved years before. I was even close to God as a teenager. But during the two years before I met you, I walked away from God and the church. Honestly, I just had a dangerous case of FOMO (fear of missing out). For reasons I can’t explain now, I wanted to see what the world had to offer. 

I guess it’s a common story for that age. I had what many consider the typical  “college experience.” In the middle of it all, though, I saw the darkest, ugliest corners of my heart and mind. It didn’t look so extreme outside, but inside I let God’s truths become shrouded with fear and lies.

I spent (wasted, really) two years trying to make my own life and be someone different from who God made me and saved me to be.

I knew I was not where I needed or wanted to be. I needed to find my way back home to Jesus. The first place I knew to start was the church. So, I took that first step and began attending Sunday morning services again at different churches. It was strange to feel out of place in such a familiar environment. Sitting in a church service was uncomfortable but also somehow comforting at the same time. 
All of the churches were friendly, but you were the first person to offer friendship. 

And I needed a friend.

That day, you were the hands and feet of Jesus when I needed Him most. Through your loving smile and kind words, I felt Him running to welcome His prodigal child home. It was the start of a journey to rebuild my faith one small step at a time.

I never got to thank you, though. The year we met was my last semester of college. I didn’t get to attend your church very often before graduation. Honestly, I didn’t even realize until years later the pivotal role you played in my faith story. 

But I have never forgotten your kindness. When I think about the type of church member I want to be, I think of you – someone who welcomes the lost and lonely. Someone who offers friendship, not just handshakes. 

I want to be the hands and feet of Jesus to others who need to experience His love in a tangible way. Thank you for setting the example and helping me find my path back to Jesus.

Love always,
Malarie