[388 words]
This morning churches across our nation will fill up with people gathering together for different reasons. For some it was the social interaction. For some it was to check the “go to church” box off our checklist. For some it was because someone made them. For some it was a habit. For some it was to see the visiting preacher. For some it was the dinner following services. For some it was the singing. For some it was a search for something that is missing. For some it was a desire to worship God in Spirit and truth. For some it was to feel good. For some it was to look good. For some it was good business. For some it was to surprise a loved one. For some it was to hear the band. For some it was to catch up on the lates t gossip. For some it was to make things right with God. For some it was to take their children. For some it was to take their grandchildren. For some it was to ask for help. For some it was to see if someone needed help. For some it was because their name was down to perform a duty during the service. For some they had nothing better to do. For some it was to find the problems so they never had to return. For some it is a feeling of guilt that they must atone for. For some it was because a religious leader wants extra funds for the collection plate. For some it was to find a new church home. Here is our question: why are we here?
In today’s world, most have lost sight of the fact that God spends as much time asking why we go to church as He does asking if we go to church. God wants our hearts and minds to come together in holy worship to Him. He wants our lives to benefit from the teachings found in His Word. He wants us to be edified while at the same time edifying those around us. Many may not think about why they come to church, but we all should. We should examine our motives to make sure they are pure in God’s sight. Only then will we truly gain the benefits of going to church!
Walter Rayburn
Owl Hollow Church of Christ
Winchester, TN