Most of us have probably heard the phrase “come as you are” attached to an invitation (or for people of a certain age, maybe from a classic and wonderful Nirvana song)–maybe to church, maybe to a party or dinner. Some well-intentioned person tells us, “Oh, just come as you are; it’ll be fine.”
But how often can we really trust that? It’s almost never “fine.” There are almost always unspoken expectations–we should have dressed better, we don’t really fit in here, we were supposed to bring a gift, everyone else contributed something but I came empty handed. That’s such an awkward, terrible feeling. “Come as you are” feels like a trap. Except when we hear it from Jesus.
Jesus said “Let the little children come to me.” (Matthew 19:14)
Jesus said “Come to me all who labor and are heavy laden and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Jesus said “I am the good shepherd.” (John 10:11)
Jesus said “I am the way and the truth and the life.” (John 14:6)
Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life.” (John 11:25)
Jesus said “My peace I give to you.” (John 14:27)
Jesus said “I will be with you always, to the end of the age.” (Matthew 28:20)
Jesus said “I have called you friends.” (John 15:15)
Jesus said “Take heart, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)
No matter what we bring, Jesus has the answer. No matter how we are, Jesus is the answer. We truly can–and must–come as we are to receive his rest and hope and life and strength. He freely invites us and freely gives.
I originally wrote this post for my church, Immanuel Nashville, in our Daily Pulse email. If you want encouragement from God’s word delivered Monday thru Friday to your inbox, I encourage you to subscribe.
