WHERE THE CHURCH IS NOT JUST A BUILDING

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           This is a time of happenings in the Church. We have Mother’s Day, Ascension Sunday, and Pentecost in May, Trinity Sunday and Father’s Day in June. That’s a lot to think about — honoring our parents and honoring our Lord. What a time to worship! So what do these meaningful Sundays mean to us individually? We are specifically called to observe special times with God. “I was glad when they said unto me, ‘Let us go into the house of the Lord’”(Ps 122:1). We are called to abide in God’s presence. For the next few months, let us consider what this means personally.

 

Abiding in the presence of God leads to the most important friendship of your life. God wants a relationship with you. It’s not about how much knowledge you have of the Bible or the measure of your faith or how much you serve. It’s about thirsting for, seeking, loving, and responding to Him. The more you abide in God; the more He becomes a part of your thoughts, desires, and life. Jesus said, “As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love” (John 15:9). That is a beautiful thought, but just how do we do it? How do we live in that love; abide in that presence?

 

The first thought is to read your Bible (our focus this month). It sounds simple enough, but do we really read the Bible? There’s reading for information, studying for a Sunday School lesson, reading for our daily devotional, and reading along with the Pastor’s sermon. These give good food for the soul but are they methods that truly connect us with God. The secret to building a relationship is to take the time to read the Bible as God’s love letter to you. Receive the words as a treasure and listen for His message especially sent to you. “Search the scriptures . . . it is they that bear witness to me” (John 5:39 RSV). This is one of the best ways to abide in the presence of God. It connects us with our Creator and allows His love to flow through His Word.

 

           As you intentionally open the Word daily, savor God’s message to you. “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly” (Col 3:16). Be faithful to this practice and soon it will become as natural as eating a meal. Your soul will be nourished as your relationship with God grows. He is always at work in your life and simply asks that you recognize His call and listen to His message. Focus on God’s Word this month. Abide in His presence. Blessings to you in the coming days. (. . . to be continued)

 

Pastor Peggy