This message arrives Sunday morning, the traditional day for attending church services.

Why do we attend church services?

The clearest couple passages, I have found, in the bible on the subject are Hebrews 10:24-25, “Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another,” and Acts 2:42, ” All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper), and to prayer.”

When I was younger, I remember people saying the point of church is “not for you to get something out of it, It is for you to worship God.” I agree that worshiping is one of the reasons we go to church, but there are many reasons and benefits to attending. Going to church is also about us learning the scripture, being inspired by the word as it explained to us in relevant ways, praying as a group, confessing and receiving forgiveness, and enjoying the friendly company and comfort provided by our spiritual family.

We should remember that our being there is as much about what it means to others as what it means to us. You will never know what that handshake, sharing of the peace, extra voice in the prayer for those in need, or smile may mean to another person.

If you have a good church and church family, make a point of participating, if you do not have a good church, find one, you will not regret it.

Dear Lord, Thank you for the love you show us and that we can show others through our churches and congregations. Help us remember to be regular attendees, giving glory to you, hope and help to others. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.