God calls the church to be more than just a group of people that come and listen to a sermon. We are a body. We are a family.
My family got together on Thursday night for a little birthday party. We do that as a family at least once per month, and we have been trying to do “Third Thursday Game Nights” too. It makes for a busier schedule—especially through the summer time—but it’s good for the family. We all have lives that can drag us in several different directions, so we have to put a date on the calendar and party! It’s tough work, but we have to meet our monthly quota of ganging up and poking fun at our mom. Somebody’s got to do it.
Family time requires that you prioritize it in your schedule.
Church family time requires that, too. If church family always comes last, you will have a gaping hole in your life that you make not even know is there.
Acts 2:42 And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers.
Hebrews 10:25 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 10:25 is not a direct command, but the three “let us…” statements in the previous verses are. Christians are told to provoke each other to love and good works, for example, and we do that through the church family.
We studied 1 Corinthians 12–14 for several weeks last year, and concluded that you—yes, YOU—are a member of this body, and the body needs every member, no matter how big or small. You have gifts from the Holy Spirit to give to others.
Yes, God calls the church to be more than just a group of people that come and listen to a sermon. We are a body. We are a family.
Family unity takes effort, but the easiest way to assimilate into the family is to be here. Here are a few tips that will help you:
1. Come to all the services. If you are here one or two hours per week, it is hard to get to know anyone and feel like part of the family. Sure, the service might be nice, but church is more than a service.
2. Join a Sunday school. Our 9:30 a.m. classes break down the crowd into smaller groups. This way, people get to know you and you get to know them.
3. Come early. So many connections happen just by walking around and talking with one another before the services. “Slip in; slip out” seems to be how some people prefer church, but you will benefit most by being intentional with your time.
4. Stay late. I love when crowds of people just stick around after services. Sometimes we have to kick people out, they’re staying too long! Sit down and chat a while. Find someone to be friendly to.
5. Prioritize fellowships. We had a dessert fellowship last week, and a Courtyard Cafe meal the week before. With nice weather and a piece of pie, it is easy to connect with people if you strike up a conversation.
6. Start small. You may not be able to meet everyone, but try to meet one new person. Have you noticed someone who seems lonely? Do you see someone sitting alone? Is there a person or family you have connected with? Act on that instead of waiting for someone else to come to you.
Scriptures are for “people-people” as well as introverts. You may not connect to a lot of people, but we all need to connect, no matter who you are. See you tonight!
-Pastor Ryan