With all the negative topics about church and faith, I thought it might be nice to remember all the good things that can be found in your church. I'll start with some of my favorite memories.
1. Growing up, I loved all the fellowship meals we had together. Whether it be dinner-on-the-grounds or going for pizza after Sunday night service, it was always a big treat. That's one of the ways I felt close to my church family.
2. I absolutely loved (and still do) the mommas who spent so much time with the youth. They raised me, along with my parents, and gave me wonderful examples of women who have servant-like hearts and are full of love and kindness and fun! They even, on occasion, called me out when I was doing wrong. Not in a judgmental way, but in a way that even then, I knew they loved me and only wanted good for me. I didn't always listen to them, but I can look back now and see how much love and courage it took for them step up and hold me accountable. Again, the key word is LOVE.
3. When I was pregnant and going through a divorce, my church wrapped it's sweet arms around me and helped me so much. There was an elderly couple who were like my grandparents. They prayed with me and always checked on me. When I would leave their house, I would sometimes find $20 stuck in my purse that wasn't there before. They didn't have much but gave everything. I want to be like them one day.
4. Service projects and mission trips have taught me so much. One, that we as Americans have it so easy. I heard today on the radio how some churches were suing the Superbowl Producers about their right to broadcast the game on big screen tv's. Yeah, I'm sure that is what Jesus would do. (shakes head) People who have nothing but Hope in Christ have such joy and kindness and gentleness. Every day they live life more like Christ than I ever have. They know that life on this planet is not all there is. It really puts things into perspective when you go to Africa or Central America and live and worship with them. My church has led me to places that I never thought I would go and do things I never thought I could.
I hope others have some good things/memories of their life in church.
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