I'm Glad When It's Time For Church


"I rejoiced with those who said to me, "Let us go to the house of the LORD." Psalm 122:1.
I love church. Like the Psalmist I'm always glad when it's time to go to the house of the Lord. 
Here's some reasons why.
God's presence is there.
"For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them." Matthew 18:20. Wherever God is anything is possible. Is God everywhere? Sure He is, but His presence is manifested when we gather together. Perhaps we could think of it as concentrated or focused. He loves when we get together and He shows up in a special way. It's not the particular songs we sing, or creating an atmosphere that's just right that does this. The presence of God is not manipulated with lights and ambiance. It's just getting together with your brothers and sisters. I'm glad I'm going to church today because I know God's presence will be there.
Prayers are answered.
"Again, truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven." Matthew 18:19. When my boys were small my oldest son would come and ask me for something and his younger brother would be standing behind him nodding. It taught me about the power of agreement. Hey, Dad, we both are asking for this. God is also moved by the unity of His children. When we agree together in prayer Jesus says the things we ask for will be done by our Father in Heaven. I'm glad I'm going to church today because I know prayers will be answered.
Believers are encouraged and strengthened.
"A spiritual gift is given to each of us so we can help each other." I Corinthians 12:7. Going to church isn't like going to the Mall. Sadly sometimes that consumer mindset can creep over into church, and we can go to church to see what we can get out of it rather than what we can contribute. You are gifted uniquely to help others grow in their walks with Christ. When you do what you do, you help others. They need you, and you need them. The journey to Christlikeness cannot be traveled in solitude. I'm glad I'm going to church today because I know I get to help someone else on their journey to Christlikeness and someone else will help me.
I hope you're glad when it's time to go to church also. Let's keep growing together.

Following the Son,
James A Williams


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