If you walk into most churches on most Sundays, you'll find that there is plenty of empty space. "Sold out" and "standing room only" don't often apply to our worship.
I think that's a good thing, even if it sometimes feels uncomfortable, like sitting at a big table with a small family. Psychologically, it makes us feel like someone's missing.
Again, I think that's a good thing to see room for more, even if humanly I get a psychological boost from a full house. But you know what? All of those empty spaces send a message.
We haven't yet reached all the people that God would have us reach in the community. We haven't yet invited all of the people who need an invitation. We haven't yet prayed for all those who don't know where to find spiritual guidance. We haven't yet fulfilled our mission, shining our lights by living as though Jesus' presence is the highest priority.
We haven't yet invited all of the people who need an invitation.
There's room for more.
I understand why some people might choose a smaller space, so they can get the pleasure of feeling like "we're packing people in." But I would choose the opposite direction. When we start (God willing) to actually fill our pews on Sundays, I'm going to start planning for a second service so we can still have uncomfortable empty space. I don't want us comfortable with what we've currently got.
There's room for more.
Jesus spent a lot of time with a small group of disciples, because he knew that changing lives happens one relationship at a time. But Jesus also trained them to stretch their serving, to expand their reach, to keep spreading the news. He told us to always be praying for more workers sent into the ripe fields, and let us in on a secret: the Father's house has many rooms.
There's room for more.
--Jonathan
REMINDERS:
Sunday worship service at 10 a.m. is a wonderful time to invite a visitor. If anyone wants to get a preview of what they will find here, offer to watch a service together on Youtube, and talk about what we do.
We are currently collecting "backpack" money for kids' meals, and "Easter" donations for audiovisual improvements.
Sunday June 30, right after church, we're asking for a short meeting for those who are volunteering to help our August 24 Back to School Bash.
July 3 (Wednesday) at 7 p.m. the Ladies Meeting is at the Perries'.
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