I want a church that shows me how to look and act like Christ. That's all. Maybe it's my fault that I think that's hard to find. Maybe I'm simply the problem.
Maybe our modern churches are just a product of society. Maybe we have to have politics and issues because of the mess we've made of the world. Maybe messed up churches are just a symptom of a messed up world. So where do we go, that's not messed up? Or are we always going to mess it up???
I know that sin makes things not good. I know we aren't going to have perfection on this earth because of sin. I know that nothing is going to be pure and good on this earth, until the new earth comes. I refuse to believe, though, that we can't have a Godly church. I refuse to believe that because we are all sinners that our churches have to be full of sin.
Maybe I am naive. Maybe I'm simplistic. Maybe, and probably, I have absolutely no idea of what I'm speaking. I just want a church full of people that have no interests other than being so very radically and passionately different from the rest of the world. That's who I want to be.
I don't want potlucks. I don't want committees. I don't want to have to wonder what my preacher is making, and whether or not my offering needs to go to the church or my needy neighbor. I don't want to have to go to business meetings or a committee meeting to decide what color the front door needs to be.
My heart is sad. Not because I don't think the church I desire exists, but because I don't know how to find it, and I don't know if I can honestly be a part of it without being part of the problem.
4 comments:
We love our church. Don't take me wrong, it's not perfect..but filled with people who love God the best they know how, and are seeking to know Him more. I love the sense of community at our church. In some ways-many ways- our church is more like family than our flesh and blood. There are so many transparent people willing to step out in faith when God calls them to do something, no matter how different that thing may be. I don't know if it's a difference in 'church government' or what, but I am gladly in the dark on 'church business'. I like the fact that there are so many servant leaders, and that my husband and I know our gifts and talents are needed in our body.
Alright, enough about that...I'll leave off the shameless plug with service times and all!
I echo Mindy's sentiments, but about our church. I have had church family respond to our cares and concerns and those of complete strangers, with prayer, encouragement, and in practical ways, that our flesh and blood family haven't. Sure, I've seen transitions and growing happen, and sometimes it's hard, but thankfully still see the passion in the hearts of so many to serve and spread the Gospel to others. That is what Christ looked and acted like, and I'm thankful to see it lived out daily in the lives of many.
I fully understand your thoughts. And it seems so difficult to find what I think a church should be all about. I am praying for you that things will all work out and you will find "your church". And I know you have been doing the same for us.
Come on over! I know we aren't exactly what you are looking for, but your description fits us remarkably well. Just come visit. No nursery, no politics, just some seriously kind people.
love you always!
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