The Essential Church

In the midst of this pandemic it's interesting that certain words just stand out, words we haven't heard before in this context.  Words like social distancing, or essential businesses.  Here in America, we are kind of spoiled, and we basically feel everything we need or want is ... well essential. I have heard so many talk about their hair, nails, eyebrows, etc..   As a result of the stay at home order many businesses were hoping to make that list.  Included in those holding out hope was the church.

As a church we seem to have gotten a little offended because we weren't considered one of the  essential businesses, especially since liquor stores were.   It seems that during difficult times, the last thing we need is a bunch of drunk folks stuck in their homes with their families,  although some feel it might help them.  But I digress.....  Whether we think the church should be open or not, is not the question.  The real questions are...   

 WHAT is the church? or WHERE is the church? 

WHAT?

In short, the church is a building not made by hands, so this question is really not WHAT?  But WHO?   Church is a body of believers that make up the body of Christ.  When Jesus talks about coming back for the 'church', He is not lifting buildings.  He's coming for me and you.

WHERE?

If you are part of the body of Christ, the church is wherever you are.  Whether you are in a building where we gather to worship, you are the church.  Whether in  grocery store, a park, driving on the freeway, or in your child's school checking on them, you are the church. Wherever you are, the church is. 

THE ESSENTIAL CHURCH

If we are the church, then no one has the power to close us. They can inhibit our gathering together, but they can't stop our reach or purpose. That is a lesson we understand from countries where believers are prohibited from gathering, yet they are the church.   Today the church is just as  open as you are, or plan to be.  Our reach is to those who live in our neighborhoods, those we friend online, and those we do business with.  So instead of tripping because the building is closed, find out what your assignment is during this time. God is not surprised by any of this, though we are.  If we are so busy complaining about everything that is going on, we will miss it.  Do what you need to do to be safe and to care for your family, but don't forget that we are NOT our own.  We are part of a much bigger picture that requires all of us doing our part.

So check yourself to see if your door is open, see if you're full of love,  if you have a mind to pray for  the hurting, to comfort those who have lossed so much already.   People are open to hearing a message of hope, be the church and give it to them. 

Yes the church is essential, but if we  refuse to do our part to help people, and encourage them with our new wine, they may as well head for the liquor store.