I Get It. Go Anyway.

Brothers and sisters who are loved by God,

Many people will say they don't need to go to church to be part of the Church. Afterall, God will join a group as small as two. (Matthew 18:20) This promise, however, was not meant to be used as an excuse for absence but to reassure the people who had no official church that they still HAD God.

I'll be honest. I hated going to church when I was growing up. It took away my ability to sleep in, it obligated time I considered to be mine, it was a place where hypocrites walked among us (and I was one!), it was boring, I didn't know why I was there, I didn't really know anyone, I didn't understand what I had to do and I certainly didn't feel God.  I know many of you are knodding in agreement. Believe me, I get it.

Today, my attitude about church has completely changed:
- I look forward to going!  My whole family has friends there that are as eager to learn, grow and serve as we are.
- I understand now that hypocrites are broken people in need of healing.  Church is in place to minister to the broken. Imagine how much worse that life would be if it didn't have a soft place to land at least once a week.
- Church is vibrant! If you are not getting a sense of vitality and LIFE in your church, keep looking for one that stimulates your mind, speaks to your heart and moves your soul.  The freedom of this country offers us the PRIVELEGE of many churches to choose from.  You can't find one? Maybe God is calling you to start one! Every great church was started by a small group.
- I go to church to meet God. In every moment of my life, God shows up for me. Going to church allows me to show up for Him. HE doesn't NEED me there to do His work but it is in my response to all that He does for me, that I go. Showing up allows me an opportunity to minister to and encourage His people. I listen for the message He has for me in the sermon or small group, that I may carry it out with me and apply the knowledge to the people I can effect. I don’t want to miss one opportunity to receive His blessing or to be a blessing to someone else.

Now, certainly, there will be times when only two can gather or you CAN'T be present. Again, be assured that God will meet you in those places. But, if at all possible, don't let it be your stopping place.  Let it be the exception and not the norm.  Come to church and be known, be part of the community and get support for your family.

These days, there are services for the rocking at heart as well as the most traditional.  Entry to church does not have to be through Sunday service.  Look for small groups that help with recovery or study. Look for ways the church is serving the community and join the efforts. Mommies, look for groups where your children can be watched while you refresh and meet with other mommies. Check for sports activites or music lessons.  It's not just your grandma's church anymore...unless, of course, that's what you're looking for.

Beloved, get up. Go.  Welcome home.

Hebrews 10:24-25