Being the Church

I recently heard a message where we were encouraged to ask the question, "What would happen if we stopped doing church and started being the church?"

With all that's happening in the body of Christ, my heart is grieved by how many meetings and committee's we have developed. In the words of Elvis we need, "A little less conversation, a little more action." Why are we so inclined to come up with great ideas but it falls on deaf ears? We're so consummed with the way and the method it has always been done by. There are the age old battles and the generational debates. At the heart of the gospel is a belief that has results. Obviously we're not saved by the good things we do, but let there be good fruit that stems from our belief and our faith!

Today over lunch, I discussed with Josh what it would be like if people in our church met the needs of our community more regularly. I thought first of our schools and all of the arts and PE classes that are having to be cut because of budgets. I asked what would happen if Christians from our local churches decided to volunteer their time, not in the name of a church or a movement, but just because in their heart of hearts they saw a need. I asked what if we took people who are gifted vocally, musically, athletically and they volunteered to develop programs for these students.

I am a firm believer that the arts and physical education is just as necessary as the scholastic basics. In my ten years of working with youth, I have seen how much my students thrive off of the arts and their sports. It's an outlet, an expression for them and, it's necessary.

I recently heard of a church who did 90% of their ministry outside the walls of the church and only 10% within. WOW! How thrilling! Last night I chatted with a friend and asked him what he would do with his life if he were able. He wants to open an old theatre, offer espresso drinks and some fancy desserts. I think that would be a great way to be in your community as a business person. There are other churches that I know of who open their doors once a week and make use of their church kitchens by offering a hot meal to their community for free. Other churches I know of get a list from local teachers of students who need new shoes. The church in turn goes out and buys brand new shoes for those students and goes to deliver them individually to the students.

The world needs to see us by our love for one another and for others. I'm frustrated lately with the lack of unity and oneness within the body. We are bogged down by the stupid things that should not even be an issue. I'm frustrated with ridiculous rumors and he said/she said. WHY?! It's just a little way our enemy is getting his ore in our weaknesses. And sadly, we're letting him win.