3) The church serves as a moral compass in a time when many have lost their way.
My two “kids” are in their 20s now, one is married, one day both will likely have children of their own. These are complicated times to raise kids, much more so than when mine were little, some 20 years ago. What is right and what is wrong is not as clear as it once was.
I’m grateful that we have The Scriptures to point the way, to make clear what is right and help keep us on track. I’m thankful for all the hard working pastors and teachers and volunteers, who are diligent to teach the Word as it stands and to speak the truth in love.
The local church is a safe place to ask question, seek truth, and discover the path to “life to the full” (John 10:10).
4) The church makes a big difference in the lives of the next generation.
The more kids the better, and you can’t have too many teens! Healthy churches love kids of all ages, and kids help make churches healthy. Kids are “messy”—life is messy, but it’s family. That’s a good thing. We learn better in community.
I’ve never been to a church that doesn’t do its best to teach parents about raising great kids to be mature young adults. From sermons to small groups, the training is so helpful. And churches work hard to invest great training directly to the kids and teens to help them grow up and live better lives; it’s hard not to be thankful for that!
5) The church reminds us of what is important and what really matters.
I attended a memorial service recently at one of our campuses. Though there was much human sorrow, there was also heavenly hope and joy. These moments always remind me of what really matters.
The person who passed away unexpectedly and young by comparison was a successful businessman, but no one talked about that. They told stories about how great a dad and husband he was. They talked about how they will miss their great friend who made them laugh and was always there for them. And they talked about how his faith never wavered, and that now he is home with Jesus. A life well lived. His legacy carries on with honor.
I pray your day is filled with joy as you reflect on the privilege you have to serve in His church.
