Maybe you have distanced from the Lord because you have been hurt by the church or Christian people. I would like to offer an apology for folks who have failed to represent the love of Jesus to you. We are all human and I so include myself in that, and we will let others down, but God never will.
Jesus offers up comfort for those who have been hurt or offended by religion or religious practices. “Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you’ll recover your life. I’ll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me—watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you’ll learn to live freely and lightly,” Matthew 11:28-30, The Message Bible.
Jesus invites those who are disenfranchised with religion to come to Him. Whatever misconceptions we have about the Christian walk or relationship with Him will be answered as we come to “keep company with Him.” It is in the quiet moments meditating on Him, that we can learn the “unforced rhythms of grace.” When we figure out who Christ is and understand the depth of His love and care or us, we aren’t afraid to draw close to Him. The benefits we receive from connection with Him can provide confidence in crisis, comfort in the midst of chaos, peace even in the presence of pain.
Please don’t eliminate the Lord because His people fall short. We all do. You might unintentionally be an obstacle for someone in your life, and then you will want mercy and forgiveness. The bottom line is that following after God, being a part of His Bride, the Church is more than worth it.