Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Colossians 3:15
You know what I’m sick of? I’m sick of hearing people profusely apologize for “missing church.” I get it. People have to miss church some Sundays and they shouldn’t feel guilty for doing so from time to time. Couples travel, kids have activities, and people work on Sundays. American lifestyle in the 21st century isn’t what it used to be in the 20th century. We are living in a post-Christian era, which means institutions, businesses, organizations and everyday life don’t revolve around church on Sundays anymore. This may seem strange coming from someone who’s trying to plant a new church and someone who rarely misses church on Sundays. While church on Sundays is vitally important, it’s merely one way we grow as believers and experience “the peace of Christ ruling in our hearts.” What’s also important is individual spirituality, Christ-centered relationships like the ones found in small groups, and community service. With all of this being said, “missing church” should produce a feeling of “missing church” as well. Church should be a place where people are known, loved, and encouraged. If someone is away from a group like that for too long, they should be longing for it. Many of us have heard it said, “You don’t GO to church. You ARE the church.” The idea behind this comes from verses like the one in Colossians. Church is supposed to be like a family and each person is like a family member. So just know… If you missed church on Sunday, the church missed you too! ;-)
