Today in the United States, a three day holiday weekend (for Labor Day on Monday) effectively marks the end of summer. As I anticipate going to church, I know I’ll see fewer people there.
I’m bothered over the low attendance. And I’m bothered that it bothers me.
Growing up, only two things kept me from church. If I wasn’t deathly ill or in the hospital, I was at church every Sunday. My parents wouldn’t have it any other way.
Their fervor instilled in me an unwavering habit of Sunday church attendance.
So, it troubles me to see others who view church as just one of many options for a Sunday morning, even on a holiday weekend.
However, I’m also troubled over my legalistic dedication. After all, Jesus came to set us free from the law. Going to church out of a guilt-produced obligation, certainly isn’t free.
I shouldn’t judge others for their freedom to skip church, which is really what I’m doing. Yet, I also know the Bible says to not give up meeting together.
I think the right attitude is this: we do indeed have the freedom to take a vacation from church, but if church is truly all he intended it to be, why would we want to?
[Romans 8:2 and Hebrews 10:25]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.