How good and pleasant it is
    when God’s people live together in unity!

It is like precious oil poured on the head,
    running down on the beard,
running down on Aaron’s beard,
    down on the collar of his robe.
 It is as if the dew of Hermon
    were falling on Mount Zion.
For there the Lord bestows his blessing,
    even life forevermore. – Psalm 133

We are very excited. Today Rebekah will be back in the pulpit. She has not preached since October, and has only been able to attend church on one occasion – to serve communion at the midnight service, Christmas Eve.

Here’s the point of today’s post. Obviously I’ll give a report on her first day back; but as for this morning, I’d simply like to talk about what a great privilege it is for any one of us simply to be able to show up at church. So if you’re one of those folk who doesn’t “do church” very often – if at all – I’d like you to consider the following ten thoughts about being present at a place of public worship.

1. Jesus has opened the door for absolutely everyone. Why not step inside?
2. Many governments and regimes forbid Christian worship, because its power to transform lives makes them nervous. Aren’t you curious as to why?
3. At our church – Wake Forest Presbyterian – the music is amazing; the preaching is both interesting and motivational; the people are delightful; the opportunities to learn more – and to serve – in a variety of contexts, are exceptional; plus there is stuff going on for kids of every age. Believer (yet), or not? Church is still the best way possible to spend a Sunday morning.
4. Gratitude to God for the gift of new life has to be more compelling than any social, political, or theological issues you could possibly have.
5. There is a profound beauty to Christian worship that feeds the soul.
6. The company of other enthusiastic, grateful people is invariably healing and redemptive.
7. Churches are dynamic forces for good in the community. Aligning ourselves with that quality of positive energy is invigorating.
8. Congregations offer exciting opportunities for people to make a difference in the lives of others; your presence makes the church a better place – and makes you a better you.
9. This is not only the beginning of a new year, but 2017 stands as huge opportunity for us to reset our course, going forward, as a nation. What better way to play your part than through the powerful witness of a cutting edge faith community?
10. Regardless of who we are, we all need to move closer to God and to put ourselves in a place where we can grow not only in faith, but in faithfulness. Church gives us the best possible context to do this… and more.

Here are a few recent images from our church in Wake Forest. So be encouraged. If you’re anywhere within 25 miles of WFPC, come celebrate Rebekah’s return. Regardless, let’s not miss this opportunity to reconnect ourselves with the peace, the purpose, and the promises, of God.

Peace, love, blessings, and promise – DEREK

worship

yes, we have a traffic circle!

CLC – 2016

WFPC