HE’S NEVER THERE

The family was enjoying a meal together after the morning worship service. Grandmother, always interested in her granddaughter, Sara, turned to her and asked, “What did you learn in church today?”

“Well,” she said after thinking a moment, “I learned that the church is God’s house. But you know, Grandma, I never see Him when I go.”

That makes me wonder what Sara might have been looking for. Surely there were songs and the reading of Scripture, perhaps the people greeted one another and exchanged smiles and handshakes. There certainly was a sermon about the church being “God’s house.” But Sara was not able to “see” God at home in His home. Perhaps no one explained to her how one might recognize God.

Paul, in describing how Christians ought to “fellowship” said, “Try to understand what the Lord wants you to do.” The problem is not that we do not understand what we are to do, but in doing what we understand that God wants us to do.

The early church was known for the caring way Christians honored and respected each other. This came from their reverence for Christ and their desire to live lives that pleased Him. Could it be that people looking for God in our churches cannot see Him “in His home” because we lack His compassion and care for one another?

Prayer:  Help us, Lord, to reflect Your presence in our lives by the care and concern we have for one another. May everyone see Your love in all that we do. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise,  making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord’s will is. Ephesians 5:15-21