Church. What image does that word conjure up in your mind? What feeling does it fill you with? If you are like me, it can sometimes inspire a feeling of dread. All those eyes will be watching me, sizing me up. "Is the skirt just brushing the top of my knees too short?" I wonder, shifting uncomfortably in my seat, "Do they find my dress inappropriate, because it shows my shoulders?" Then there are those Sundays where my husband and I find ourselves running behind schedule. We slip into the back of the sanctuary, as the first hymn rings out, straining our necks to see if there are any seats available. As one of my family members unfortunately discovered, some people truly do look down on you for being late. If it is not the sense of judging eyes on my back, it is the overwhelming apathy I feel in the mornings, before I arrive at church. Church? Isn't that a chore?
Despite these not-so-uncommon issues I struggle with, we still manage to rise and shine, or at least rise, most Sunday mornings. You may wonder why I subject myself to something I harbor such negative ideas towards. The reason is: I never regret going.
When I was just a baby, my parents had me dedicated at their church. This simply meant that they were making a declaration to the congregation, and to God, that they would raise me in the church, in God's ways. It also was a call to the people, to pray and aid these parents in that venture. They held true to this, raising both me and my brother in the church. It was not always the same building, or congregation, but it was always God's house. What's more, they did not leave Him at the altar. He came home with us as well, in family devotions, thanking Him before meals, and through the examples my parents set.
Understanding that having God in your life is more than a trip to church on Sunday, goes a long way to accepting why He calls us to join in fellowship with fellow Christians each week.
As a child, I remember sitting in the pew with my parents, next to my grandma and Uncle Mark, looking up at the cross that hung from the ceiling. I am not sure if I could grasp what the pastor was saying nor if I even remember the setting as well as I think, but I do know that the thought crossed my mind "Will I continue this faith when I grow older?" Somehow, I knew I would face a point where I had to decide for myself to go to church on Sunday, to live a life for Christ.
I am not sure exactly when that threshold was passed, but I know I did accept that being a Christian meant being obedient, and that meant going to church. (It means a great many more things too, but I am focusing on this particular topic.) Now that I am married, it is no longer my parents rousing me out of my sleep, urging me to get ready on Sunday morning. It is my devoted husband who spurs me on. He struggles with the apathy, more than the fear of judgement, but I am thankful that as the spiritual leader of the home, he makes sure to hold me accountable in sharing fellowship with God's people.
Once I am there, settled into the pew, going through the rhythm of turning to such-and-such a hymn, rising, sitting, bowing my head... I begin to feel more at ease. I know God's presence is there, amongst us. He brings me peace. In fact, I have even been known to crack a smile. It amazes me how many people stand, rigid and poker-faced, singing about the wondrous grace of Jesus. It is hard to get excited sometimes. I do understand that. I am not saying I am beaming through every song, but it is worth projecting on the outside, so that if someone is watching, they will actually believe you are happy about being "set free".
The messages our pastor shares are like sermons should be. They're not sugar-coated, at times harder to swallow, but always scriptural and always true. I suppose it is to each his own, but the fluff sermons that make you feel good, are not going to translate to anything outside those church doors. Anything is possible, but it seems like more of a challenge...like, stepping out into the world suddenly makes peace, joy and love look impossible.
Ok, so I get something out of the message. What about those who really have a hard time listening? Just a tip: If you find yourself to be someone who has difficulty sitting still, focus that energy into taking notes. I have taken notes on the simplest, most straight-forward sermons, just because it helps me pay attention. (I used to doodle in history class, when there were no notes to take, because I had a lot of nervous energy...but my teacher didn't like that, so I would recommend sticking to note taking. Those around you will be more inclined to believe you're paying attention.) So, reason number one to go to church: 1) A good message, that will convict you and always leads you back to the Bible as the ultimate authority.
The hymns can blend together one Sunday to the next, but there are some that really get me excited. One hymn in particular, "Amazing Love" is our church's theme song. When the pastor calls out "502!" you know there is going to be an increase in the fervor with which people are singing. It makes me smile to see fellow children of God, excited about their chains falling off and being freed from the bondage of sin. Plus, we are worshipping God. He deserves praise. Sharing my voice in a multitude, knowing He can hear my off-key, heartfelt voice all on its own, also makes me smile. He doesn't care! It is beautiful to His ears. 2) Praise God!
You may wonder where my fear of dealing with someone who comes across a little "high and mighty" comes in. Where there are Christians, there are humans...where there are humans, there is sin. No one is perfect, but because of this, some of us pump ourselves up as if we are. It is a pat on the back to think "Well, I showed up on time, so I shouldn't have to move down for them. It's his/her fault for being late! " I am just as guilty as the next person with thoughts of "Well, at least I did/didn't..." My conscience is pretty loud though and quick to remind me, "Yes, but just a moment ago..." or "But you have struggled with that before." Show some compassion! That is the plus side to gathering with these people though. Despite our deficiencies, the majority of us are open to hearing about your heart-issues, your health issues, whatever burden you have carried to the altar with you. There is always someone willing to lift you up in prayer. 3) A support system. A prayer chain.
I could probably come up with even more reasons, but I believe these are the biggest ones for me. I am sure you have heard this many times..."Don't forget! It is not just what you get out of church, it is what you give back." I am not referring to tithing (although, that is something that shows obedience to Christ) but I am talking about being an example. Look at your own life. Evaluate your own walk. Apply the sermon to the life you live, not to those around you. Be the person lending a listening ear or offering a supportive hug and really take the time to read the words you are singing out to the Lord. Feel it in your heart!
But the best way to get excited about going back to church each week, is to take Him with you, wherever you go.
In Christ,
PS: Check out these songs- If We Are the Body-Casting Crowns
Stained Glass Masquerade-Casting Crowns
Please Come-Nichole Nordeman
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