Missing Church
Missing Church
Sitting here in my office on Sunday morning during the 10:00 hour, the building is strangely quiet. We cancelled the services and activities of the day because of the icy weather, and I think it was a prudent decision. I also wonder if our friends and fellow church members, from colder climates, might chuckle at how a little ice and snow tend to shut things down around here. Maybe we should have a Polar Bear Policy? Should the weather be inclement, and one feels the need to stay home, then do so without guilt. Your church and your Lord certainly understand. However, if you are brave and crazy enough to challenge the weather and come on, then I will meet you here and we will have church. Maybe I will even sing a solo, and preach an extra long sermon!
Why do we gather so regularly for church? Some people with busy lives, and without a church tradition, will question such priority. Ask an old-timer. It is a must that I have the building unlocked by 9 a.m. on Sundays, for such folk begin arriving early and tend to be the last to leave. Some have health challenges that make being at church for so long a difficult proposition. And several continue to attend when health, logistics, and family encourage otherwise. Yet, the old-timers are the most faithful in almost every aspect of the church- attending, giving, serving, and staying around.
They come because they have discovered what others, including some self-sophisticated younger people, are still learning. They love and need church. It is a place of identity- others know your name, and care. It is a place of purpose- involvement with the greatest cause of the universe. It is a place of history- saints of yore, and tomorrow, adored and respected and wise, gather here. It is God’s place, where holiness and reverence and love come together in fellowship with Christ. When your heart is right and you know The Place, there is nowhere else like it.
Much is going on this Sunday morning. Cars buzz by and kids play in the snow. The malls and convenience stores are astir. But, the church building is quiet. I sure miss the hustle and bustle, and contrasting quiet contemplation, and especially the love of a Sunday morning in the Lord’s House. And I suspect many others do, also.
See you in church on Sunday!
