love for the church

I love my church. I don't mean Morrison Heights as a location or a building. I mean the people of the church, a Christian body of believers. The church encourages me to dwell in Christ all week long. The church and their encouragement to focus on Christ should spill into every day life. I know many have heard before that God is not just something to think about on Wednesdays and Sundays. I think I am finally understanding what that means, and it makes my life so joyful. 

1. Church should spill into your conversation. 

How often do we half-way listen (or accidentally sleep through) a sermon then forget about it the moment the plate of Mexican food gets set in front of us at Sunday lunch? I would imagine it's probably more often than we would like to admit. But, Sunday morning services have recently given me an easy conversation starter to check on my friends and fellow believers. Questions like "What did you think of that message?" and "Is there anything I can be praying for or encouraging you about that you realized?" can launch our conversations from being surface level to being impactful and God centered. Those conversations mean more to me than any conversation about school or TV shows. (**Side Note: They are also great for asking nonbelievers questions and starting conversations about religion and the Gospel!)

2. Church can launch you into a stronger commitment to scripture. 

When I start my week with church, I feel excited about scripture throughout the week. Services and the people of God remind me how much the Lord can speak to us through His words. I mean the Lord gave us a whole book for us to know him, follow his instruction, and to understand where our faith is founded. Why aren't we more dedicated to reading it?!? Now, I consistently start my morning by allowing God to speak to me by opening up my Bible. I love hearing him speak to me. It gives me joy. I gain even more joy through talking to my friends about what they reading. (It also allows room for accountability!) 

3. Church gives you an opportunity to serve and proclaim his name. 

When you are in a body of believers, you will never be alone. That is so comforting to me! I will never be alone in trying to care for my community or reach the lost. I will always have people unified in Christ's mission along side me to serve. 

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But, understand, no church is perfect. If you are visiting many churches to find the right one for all of your needs, you will never find the perfect church. Churches are filled with imperfect people. Churches exist to serve the Lord, not you. You can't find a custom church like you can find custom shoes online. 

However, if you don't have a church family, let me encourage you to find one. This is not something that can wait. Having a church community has changed everything for me, and I know it can change everything for you. Corporate worship, service to others, and community is a blessing that the Lord designed and desires for us. Don't miss out! 

Just a thought. 

- Kaitlyn