Birds are like that, they stick with their own kind, and travel together. I'm sure there's many benefits; companionship, learning to sing your tune from the elders of the flock, the downdraft when flying behind others, and more eyes to look out for a berry bush, or backyard bird-feeder.... Ha, ha...As people, we are made for community too. There are so many benefits of sharing life with others. As Christians, God calls us to flock/commune/share life. This is His plan, through the fellowship of church. The sense of community, Biblical teaching, public worship, and like-minded, faith based friendships are so important.
"Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Hebrews 10:23-25
These verses happen within the church. We are so very blessed to be members at South End Fellowship Baptist Church. There, our pastors are genuine; we are challenged and encouraged by solid Biblical preaching each week by men of God that are sincere in their faith, and humble. We gather together, singing songs of worship to God, contributing financially to see God's message of hope through Christ be taught in our community, and around the world through missions, and interacting with other believers-sharing our lives, our struggles, and rejoicing in good times together. Serving others by getting involved, and using the gifts and talents God gives to glorify Him. Christians belong in the church like birds belong in a flock. We don't have to be a lone goose on the big lonely lake of day to day life.
I have fond memories of church picnics, Sunday School, Christmas plays, and lots of potlucks, bridal and baby showers, lots of fun, fellowship, and lots of grounding in my faith at church throughout my life. My Oma affectionately taught me a song when I was a kid, in her thick dutch accent, and using our hands to do actions we'd sing;
The church is not a building,
The church is not a steeple,
The church is not a resting place,
The church is the people.
I am the church,
You are the church,
We are the church together.
All around Jesus,
All around the world,
We are the church together.
If you know Jesus personally you are a part of the church. Like a physical body part, you have a part to play in the Body of Christ, and to not participate is like leaving a finger or toe in bed at home.... It's just not complete. Here in North America we are blessed to have the freedom to worship publicly. I hope you are enjoying the family atmosphere and the spiritual enrichment of a local church near you this Sunday, worshiping, enjoying fellowship, glorifying God who designed the church in His wisdom, a gift to enjoy.
