Just Visiting

We pray every Sunday for the effectiveness of the church. And as I ponder "getting ready for service" this morning, I got to thinking about those stepping into church today.

Churches are as dynamic and diverse as the people who attend them. The character and nature of their existence is as varied as the personalities of those who sit in the sanctuary or lounge in the lobby.

The old chorus about gathering at the river has become a gathering at the coffee bar. Which, don't get me wrong, I love... this is 2018 and it's where community happens. So, don't get offended; I was smiling as I typed.

So, I do pray that the church is effective as ministry goes forth, in the sermon and in the lobby and for the kids and the youth and every corner and square foot of every church campus.

Having said all of that, while their is a church for every person, not every person fits in the same style and format of service. People who gathered together in one church may find themselves down the road, attending two different churches that are nothing like each other; nor the previous church they attended together.

But God knows where everyone is, not only on a physical level, but also where the mind is as well as the heart. We trust that He knows what we have need of, regarding how He would desire to minister to us, in addition to where and how He would use to minister to others.

So, whether you hear or say the words, "just visiting" in today's service, know that God is at work, in divinely placing people where the ministry of the church will be effective in their lives and where they can effectively minister to the body of Christ and the community at large.

And while the process does feel as intimate as a courting relationship and as much a matter of personal preference as a cup of coffee, that's okay. Jesus Christ used a different method at every encounter... all to communicate the same message of His love and truth.

Let's pray, this #effectiveSunday, that not only would the church be effective in their ministry, but those in service would encounter God. Pray for those trying to find their place. Whether stepping into the church for truly, the very first time or in the process of a change for whatever reason, may God work in their hearts and minds. May they sense His presence and may God bring a confirmation into their spirit that they would know, this is the community of believers in which God desires for them to be partake and engage in ministry. Pray today would be a day that once again, hearts and minds would be open to the moving of God and the direction of the Holy Spirit. May the truth of His Word change lives, renew minds and refresh our souls.

That we would be more effective in the days to come
Because of the effectiveness of the body of Christ
As we gather today in His name.
In the fellowship of the lounge;
In the praise of the sanctuary.

- PNC