Going to Church

I missed church last Sunday. I was sick and I did not want to share any bugs with other members, but I sure missed not being there. I have friends who tell me they are Christians. They send me e-mails with prayers and encouragements to worship Him. Yet, they do not attend church. Here we are with multiple churches within driving distance, and professed Christians do not attend.

Why is this on my mind? Because one person send this link:
http://www.cbn.com/cbnnews/world/2010/December/Underground-Chinese-Church-Goes-Public/

“One of the largest underground churches in Beijing has decided to go public.” They’ve been worshiping in small groups in homes. A thousand people – can you imagine coordinating such meetings? The worry if they get caught? Possible social stigma, damage to careers? Yet they attended church under repressive regimes.

In some countries not attending religious services is noticed. Compliance with religious laws is enforced. Others have been the opposite. Here? Doesn’t matter, except maybe to mothers or dads whether religious services are attended.

Mistakes I’ve made I see being made by some very faithful church members – putting temporary things before church. “But, the children need (insert name of their favorite class/sport) in order to learn how (insert favorite end result).” And, I agree to the extent that it does not interfere with teaching them, by example, the important things.

Jesus himself taught importance.

Master, which is the great commandment in the law? Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets. (Matthew 22:36-40 KJV)

Quite specifically, God gets first place. The people around you get second, and everything else will fall into place.

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. (Matthew 6:33 KJV)

What things? What Jesus mentioned in the surrounding verses are such mundane things as clothing, food, drink, shelter, even tomorrow.

Does that mean ignoring any of those? No, nor does it mean ignoring the class/sport either. Just keep them in perspective, in their right place. And that place is always following God.

Visit Him in His house, please.