Well-known comedian AY Makun has talked about a personal experience that made him wonder what the church should stand for, particularly for those going through trying times.
The performer claimed that he had avoided going to church for a while because he was dealing with personal problems as a result of unfavorable internet rumors about him, not because he had lost faith in God.
Sharing his thoughts on his page, AY said:
“There’s something that has been on my mind, and I want to ask a very simple question. Who is the church really for?
For some time now, I stopped attending church. Not because I stopped believing in God. I was actually navigating a very personal season.
A negative narrative was put out there on the blogs against me, and I chose to step back quietly. Part of that decision was because I just didn’t want to become the subject of whispered conversations and curious looks, especially when you walk into the house of God.
Sometimes, when your life has been discussed publicly, walking into a familiar environment can feel heavier than people realise. So, occasionally, I just worship online.
Eventually, I found the courage to worship at another church. From the very first day, I felt welcomed, and I met the pastor, his family and members of the leadership. We had a great time together, and honestly, I thought maybe I had found a place to call home.
At some point, I was invited to be part of an upcoming programme. Later, after some internal discussions, I was told I would no longer be participating because of concerns about public perception surrounding me.
I respected the decision, but I left with a question. When did public opinion become stronger than one’s relationship with the altar and faith? What does the church truly represent?
Let’s say all the stories you hear about AY out there were true. What if they were false? Shouldn’t the church be the safest place to find truth, grace and restoration?
Because if people cannot run to God’s house when life becomes heavy on them, where are they meant to run to?
The clueless people who leave negative comments on your social media page, or the few friends who skillfully avoid associating with you based on public opinion?
Personally, I still believe in Jesus Christ as a Christian, and in His words, He said, ‘Come unto me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.He didn’t say, ‘Come after everyone has accepted your story.
He didn’t say, ‘Come after your reputation has been repaired.’ The key word was, ‘Come.’ No matter what your situation is, no matter what you’re going through, just come. Even the Bible says, ‘For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.’ It also says, ‘Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to cast a stone.’
So, I’m going to leave you with the same question I started with. Who is the church really for?”
Church is a place meant for everyone, regardless of our individual situations or circumstances. Our challenges should not be reasons to distance ourselves from worship and fellowship, but instead opportunities to seek strength and guidance. May God help us all to remain faithful and committed to serving Him wholeheartedly, no matter what we face
