A few weeks ago I wrote about our leadership team and how many of us didn’t really like going to church or I should say didn’t like sitting though the services in prior churches that we have been a part of. I have really been spending some time thinking about what I do like about gathering together.
I like sincerity and transparency. I like being myself and allowing others to be real. In life everything isn’t always OK, everything isn’t always perfect. Sometimes we are tempted and even sin, sometimes we are just in a bad mood or cranky. Sometimes I get mad and frustrated, even at God. I don’t think any of this shocks or surprises God, it shouldn’t shock us either. When we allow others to see us as we really are…forgiveness, love and acceptance must prevail. Otherwise we all just go back to being fake.
I like being prayed for. It shows that others care. It goes back to being real, we have real needs, let’s pray about the stuff that REALLY matters for one another.
I like having the opportunity to be useful and to use my skills. Whatever that might be, I like to feel like I am a part and make a difference.
I like hearing about when God does cools things in peoples lives. I like it when I see the “light bulb” go on in peoples head and I can tell…”Yeah, they get it!” I like seeing life changes that mean something.
I like music. I like to worship in music.
I like laughing and having fun with friends.
I like to eat while laughing and having fun with friends.
I like to be taught something interesting that challenges me, both spiritually and mentally. I like it when the speaker ends before I get bored. Ouch….I need to listen to my own advice so when I speak, I end while people are still interested.
I like taking steps of faith that gives God room to do something really cool.
I like variety. Change it up a bit, do something unexpected.
I am sure there are probably more. My dream is to create a gathering place where people enjoy to go. Not out of obligation or just because they know they should, but because they really want to be there. I think we are on the right path. Always room to improve, but on the right path.
