Some people look at the church on the outside and they really don’t like what they see. Experience and the behaviour of a few can repel rather than attract, but true Christianity, real church is not like that. Real church is all about seeking to reflect Jesus. It’s like the owner of an orchard who invited a man to come and taste his wonderful fruit.

‘Oh, no,’ said the man, ‘I have seen the orchard and I have tasted some of the fruit… its apples are sour and bitter!’

‘Ah,’ said the owner of the orchard, ‘I planted sour apple trees on the outside of the orchard to stop thieves coming in and stealing the fruit. But come with me into the centre, taste and see; the fruit is sweet and good to eat.’

Jesus would not have us remain on the outside, but to come in, taste and see the fruit that he offers is good and sweet.