Dear Church,
Why is Sunday morning important in the life of a Christian? Scripturally it is set apart as the day our Savior Jesus Christ defeated death and grave and rose again as our victorious king (Luke 24:1-7). Sunday worship is not a solo event, it’s a communal practice. It is a day to worship God, to celebrate community as we engage in our calling as covenant people to fellowship with God and each other. That is why, Hebrews 10:24-25 reminds us to be intentional about Christian fellowship. If we are not intentional, we will recluse into our own cocoons and think of church to be more about me and what I can get than what I can give. So, it is entirely possible to come to church on a solo spiritual exercise and leave church as soon as the worship is over without any meaningful conversation or investment in relationships. A self-centered Christian is an oxymoron; a believer cannot be an individualist. This sentiment does not align with the Psalmist when he said, “I was glad when they said to me, “Let us go to the house of the LORD!”
Sunday mornings are a reminder to all of us that we have been welcomed by Jesus Christ into a fellowship with God and we are also welcomed into a fellowship with each other. The reformer, Martin Luther once said, “At home, in my own house, there is no warmth or vigor in me, but in the church when the multitudes is gathered together, a fire is kindled in my heart, and it breaks its way through.” So, here are a few ways we could prioritize fellowship:
1. Come early to church (I would recommend at least 10 minutes early) as joyful fellowship is possible before church service begins. This gives you a chance to greet people, to get to know people, to share your week’s stories with each other. Coming early allows us to practice hospitality (I would even recommend having coffee time before church begins). Remember one thing, when we come to church rushed, we are not just rushed physically but emotionally and spiritually as well. Our hearts and minds could be distracted so much and it affects our fellowship with God and each other.
2. Stay back after worship. Having spent time worshiping God through music, scripture, prayer and preaching of the Word, we are more prepared and energized by the Holy Spirit to encourage others because of the truth proclaimed. This is more important than rushing to our favorite Sunday lunch spot or whatever we do on a typical Sunday. Staying after worship gives us the opportunity to visit with each other, pray for each other, share testimonies, and encourage one another.
Remember, as believers we are all strangers and sojourners in this land where we live. Meaning we will not get to be here long. Our days on earth are like a shadow, and there is no abiding (Hebrews 11:13). But, on a Sunday, we receive a foretaste of home (Heaven). Why would we want to leave this for anything?
Be encouraged,
Mathews
