Are You an Attractive Christian?

I've noticed something fascinating this week. The rather unremarkable bush outside my bedroom window has undergone a complete transformation. For months, it has been nothing but a green backdrop. Sure, it was pleasant enough, but certainly nothing to write home about. Yet, seemingly overnight, it has erupted into a constellation of delicate white blooms.

What's even more intriguing is the response these blooms have generated. The bush that previously served only as a waiting room for the birds at the feeder has become the hottest gathering spot in the garden. Now, dozens of bees buzz excitedly around each blossom, their enthusiastic hum providing the soundtrack to my mornings. Large fuzzy bumblebees, sleek honey bees, and tiny wild bees that I can hardly identify all crowd the branches in a bustling community of activity.

Just last week, not a single bee could be bothered with this bush. Not one. But today, the buzz is a constant reminder of the change in the bush's appeal.

The stark contrast got me thinking about our Christian lives. How many of us are living as "green bushes"? We're decent, morally upright people who blend into the religious landscape without drawing much attention. We attend church, say the right things, know the proper Bible verses, and maintain an acceptable Christian appearance. We're not offensive, but we're not particularly attractive either. Ouch!

Then there are those remarkable believers whose lives have burst into bloom. These are the Christians who radiate such joy, peace, and purpose that others naturally gravitate toward them. They're irresistible! So, what's their secret?

The difference isn't in their religious activities but in their relationship with Christ. Dead religion is like my bush before it bloomed. Yes, it's functional, but it's also uninspiring. There's nothing particularly compelling about someone simply going through the motions. People aren't drawn to it.

Jesus addressed this very issue with the church at Ephesus: "Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love" (Revelation 2:4). These believers looked good and right in the eyes of others, but they had lost the passion and the bloom that once made their faith attractive.

When we fall deeply in love with Jesus, experiencing His grace afresh and living in intimate communion with Him, our lives naturally blossom. Just like my bush doesn't have to advertise to attract the bees, a Christian overflowing with authentic love for Christ doesn't have to manufacture evangelistic opportunities. People are naturally drawn to genuine spiritual vitality just as bees are drawn to my bush.

Perhaps that's what Jesus meant when He said, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16). Not manufactured religiosity, but the natural outflow of a heart captivated by Christ. Not someone going through the motions, but someone so in love with their Savior that the love of Christ literally radiates from them.

The difference between being dutiful and being delightful is the difference between religious obligation and loving relationship. One produces seemingly good people; the other produces Christians who make others hungry for God.

Lord, help me not to be content with mere greenery when You've designed me to bloom!