Sunday, January 30, 2011

Church Is God's House

"Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another -- and all the more as you see the Day approaching." -- Hebrews 10:25

What is the purpose of the church? Why do people attend church, some regularly and others rarely? Why is church important? And why do people draw toward or away from the church? Lots of questions. How about some answers?

Church is a wonderful place where believers can come together and celebrate the Lord. We can sing songs of praise. We can listen and learn from preachers and speakers. We can grow in faith, surrounded by other believers. And, if we're not careful, we can isolate ourselves from people who need church and Jesus just as much as we do.

Some people are in church every Sunday morning without fail. Are they better Christians? Are they more devout? Not necessarily. Some folks only show up because it's expected. They've been in church every Sunday morning for most or all of their lives. It's all they know. It might be the only day they even open their Bible. But there they are. Sunday morning appearances free them to behave just as they please the remainder of the week.

Of course, not all people are so easily sized up. Some are in church because they love God and genuinely want to worship Him. Some people drift away because of life events. Others face tragedy or heartache and never quite make it back from blaming God. Sad. Others draw closer as life casts them against the rocky coast. They seek shelter and safety as they weather the storm.

It's one of the many reasons church is important. Anything that draws us closer to God is a good thing. Church helps ground us in faith and hope for a brighter tomorrow. We are comforted by His Presence. We are held up and lifted up by fellow believers when weakness overtakes us. Friendships bind us with the thread of common belief and a Savior who has never left us alone.

For some people. Some churches are filled with cliques and generations of sameness that never welcomes newcomers beyond the basics. Oh, they want new members to carry the financial burden. Volunteers are urged to sign up. Just make sure no one changes anything or expects any extras, like belonging and meaningful relationship. Those things are reserved for those who came before, have the right pedigree, the right connections, the perfect address.

Churches are filled with very human people, some of whom draw people to Christ and others who push people away. Rejected people flee the one place where everyone should feel comfortable and welcome. God's House. Because that's what Church is -- God's House.

Do you welcome people to your church? Do you take time to learn their names and actually converse with them? Do you include newcomers in activities, such as after church lunch? For those who are seeking, do you make the effort to meet people? Do you get involved? Do you step forward in faith or stand back in doubt?

God meant for us to come together in worship and praise, to learn and grow in His Word. Church is the starting place. Do your part. Make it a wonderful experience for everyone.