Posted on 17Apr CATEGORIES: General
God loves you. Go in peace and share his love with the world.
(Advent Church Blessing)
We began to use this blessing at Advent as a way of connecting our worship with our mission. As we leave worship we are sent to carry out our mission to share God’s love with the world. As you walked out the center aisle you also were reminded to “Attempt Great Things for God” on the sign in the ceiling of the narthex. Both drive home the point that worship is not the destination but the beginning of a believer’s journey. Worship is not only a hospital for wounded sinners, it is a pit stop for those who are running the race of discipleship. Going to church is not your weekly duty, it is the way that you get filled up for the duty of loving the world all week long.
I have been disappointed at times as a pastor with the reality that many do not come to worship often enough and others who come to worship do not seem to take their discipleship seriously enough. I think I have made it clear many times that we should not wake up on Sunday morning wondering if we will go to church that day. Without regular church attendance you become a car running on empty. At the same time, if you leave church and your mind or heart or soul has not been changed or touched or consoled or encouraged then you are just going through the motions. The good thing about staying in one place for two decades is that I have also seen so many people blessed and changed and ready to go in peace to share God’s love with the world. Hear these words: they can change your life and change the world!
Pastor Andy
