Let's start off by reading some scripture.
Hebrews 10:24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
It doesn't take a rocket scientist to figure out what direction these set verses are pointing us. The top is church attendance, meeting together, gathering or whatever you want to call it. We are supposed to encourage each other (stir up) to love and good works. That's one of the jobs of every person in the church.
But there is something in light of this that I want to discuss. Where have you been? There! I asked you. Do you feel loved now? Where have you been? Why are you missing so much church? Feel missed now? I hope so.
Now, today more than ever, the reasons (excuses) of why we miss gathering together as the church is clearly instructed to do, has grown to an unparalleled number. Our most recent one is the pandemic. FOR THE RECORD: I know we must be safe, I know we must be smart and for those that have compromising health issues should take some extra steps in protecting ones self although not to the point of damaging you spiritual walk. And only you are gonna know what that looks like until it becomes obvious to the rest of us and then we all see it.
But something I've heard in my time here on earth is when someone misses church and they get upset because no one asks where they were or seem even the bit concerned. Do you know anyone that has ever said that? Have you said this? So the question is why do good church people seem unconcerned when *(insert dear sister name or bother name here) misses service after service? Are they not concerned? Are they that selfish that they really don't care? Let me know answer this for you.
It is not because they don't care or are unconcerned. It's not that they are selfish and haven't thought of the missing little sheep of the flock. In fact that's the farthest thing from the truth. Here is the why behind their misperceived lack of concern.
The norm has been set! Yes, read that again. A norm has been set by the missing person. At first we all start out faithful and dedicated. Then life hits, offense happens, a chilling of the heart takes place and we start to miss a few services. Not to mention all the little events that get in the way such as job schedules and vacations etc. And nothing wrong with vacations of course and you should take them and get away for sure. And you got to work too so there is that. It happens right? Yes!
But all the other issues that I first mentioned come into play and we find ourselves missing more and more services. At first, yes you are missed and missed a lot. Because missing was unusual for you. But over time things changed in you and you start to miss more and more until a new norm has been set. For those of us that still notice we are actually apprehensive to say anything for fear of offending you and causing you to miss even more. But the fact remains that this is squarely on your shoulders (the missing person) because you have set the norm by your actions and we play by those rules for your life.
So, you want people to miss you? Want people to ask where you are? Then set a new norm! Be present. Be consistent in showing up. But if not, then stop being offended, stop being mad with people because they are playing by the norm you have exemplified in your life for them to respond to.
By the way; WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN???
Pastor Jason
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