Recently, I was reading a popular pollster’s book about the current state of the church. His statistics revealed an obvious decline in church attendance and increase in the unchurched here in the United States. However, the pollster never said anything about the approximate 1.5 million immigrants that are entering the United States every year. Obviously, not every immigrant from all the countries of the globe will have a Christian background, which would sway the statistics of the non-Christian population. The U.S. Census bureau even shares that by the year 2060, immigrants alone will have helped the United States population reach 404 million persons! That equates to well over 63 million new folks!

I truly respect this particular pollster and enjoy reading his statistics, I just don’t believe statistics are the final say—they’re a starting point. With a current population of over 327 million people, the United States gains one new international migrant every 29 seconds https://www.census.gov/popclock. That said, today’s Church has never before had such a great opportunity to share the gospel with those who are nonbelievers. I must admit, today’s scandals, instant gratification environment, and busy-ness of life have challenged the Church. Moreover, technology is here to stay so embracing it wisely seems prudent if the Church plans on connecting with a world that has grown smaller. But even with all our technology and electronic “friends,” people are still lonely. They are looking for a love that’s genuine and not self-serving.

If the local church could once again find that sacrificial love of God that changes hearts, we just might begin to see an empowered Church that attracts others and is involved in its community. Some folks are just gifted at increasing numbers in their churches, but sensing the real love of God is something you cannot buy—it’s life changing and causes people to take notice of something that, unfortunately, has become rare today. I hope you’ve found the love of God for your own life by letting his son, Jesus Christ, lead and guide your life (John 3:16). If you have, start asking God to show you opportunities to share that love with others around you—and become a change agent for good.

Be blessed!
Marshall

Dr. Windsor is founder and president of Windsor Evangelistic Ministries, Inc. A Registered, 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.