When I say the word "church" what comes to your mind? For some it is rules, regulations, boring sermons and services. For others it is condescension and condemnation. In the non-profit sector I hear words like isolationist and parasite.
There's nothing attractive about any of these descriptors. It raises the question, "Why would anyone with limited time and resource involve themselves in a church?"
My answer is that church is a place where I experience God's presence. Church is a community of people that God uses to touch and change my life for the better.
Because every church is filled with broken, sinful people (I'm one) the church will often do broken, sinful things. There are still local congregations that hurt parishioners and isolate themselves from the greater community. But, in my observation the number of congregations that are becoming powerfully, positive places of communion with God and connection with community is dramatically increasing.
I'm privileged to see significant life change taking place every week. In Redmond I see churches that feed the hungry, counsel and care for the disturbed and depressed, encourage and lift those that are fallen and inspire those who are breathless in trying to "do it all".
Have you had a fresh look at church lately?
2 comments:
Hey Scott,
You left out hypocritcal and judgemental from your list of unattractive descriptors. Sadly for the last ten or so years, until recently, I would have descriped church in those terms. I have learned, at a church you may be familiar with, that I don't have to be perfect. Perfection is the goal at the end of the journey. I have been encouraged by the confessions of people who I think very highly of. What do I think of when I hear the word "church"? I think of encouragement and support. Thank you for these words. You are a true blessing in my life.
John,
Thanks for your comments. I'm grateful for where you are in the journey today.
Let's continue to be all that the church can be!
Blessings on you today.
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