Come into his doors with joy, and into his house with praise; give him honor, blessing his name.   Psalm 100:4

 Why do you go to church?

 Believe it or not, people often go to church for a number of reasons.  While we are here primarily because God has told us it is our responsibility as Christians to worship and gather for prayer and praise, God also knows that coming to church is also really good for us. In my 15 years of ordained ministry, I have seen the positive impact of church attendance on people’s physical and psychological health, finances, social skills, job effectiveness and of course faith development and biblical education. 

 Can going to church really do all that?  Yes, I believe it can.  But it takes more than just showing up. It takes some effort and a willingness to get to know others and let them get to know you.  You see, it’s the relationships, the interactions, the opportunities for service – these are the key factors that help us to find purpose, support, acceptance and motivation.  We can find real meaning for our lives both by hearing the gospel message but then also by living it.  We can witness the impact of God’s grace on the lives of others, share in their joys, and console each other in grief.  These things remind us we are not alone.  Often someone else is going through something similar to what you are going through.  We can help each other if we try. 

 We can also help each other by sharing resources such as food, skills, job hunting leads, life coaching and tutoring.  We can set an example for our children’s behavior and uphold the values that we want for our kids.  Some studies suggest that church goers have lower blood pressure, live longer and recover from depression at higher rates than the general population.  We can be the family we say that we are and be that family that we need as well. 

 Why do you come to church?  I hope you have lots of reasons and maybe now you have a couple more.  Make Sunday morning at 10am a priority for your life and your family.  Stay for a Bible study and send your kids to Sunday School or confirmation. It all starts up again very soon.  Be proud that you come to church, and get the most you can out of it.  I know that I try to make it fun and interesting.  Just come as you, and know that you are welcome here. Has it been a while?  That’s ok.  We'd love to see you again soon.

 I look forward to seeing you in church.

 Pastor Jennie

jennieswanson@sbcglobal.net