OH NO!!! DON'T CLOSE THAT CHURCH!!!!

Can you imagine a church that was so connected to its community that the community would lament its closing?

Of course, a church that was truly connected to its community would never be closing - I know that!  But just use your imagination.

Imagine a church that was so vital to the community that the community couldn't picture going forward without its influence and participation! 

Imagine a community that came to the church's rescue - just to keep it open and thriving. 

Imagine a church that had made such a difference in its community - such an investment in the community - that the community cried out with one voice:  "Oh no!  You can't close that church!"

REALITY
Of course, this is not the case for the vast majority of churches!  Most communities would never even notice if its churches closed. 

There are exceptions - and I'm grateful for that!  In my most recent community, the Catholic Church was at the center of almost everything the community did.  I believe there would be a community outcry if it was to suddenly be closed by its diocese.

But most churches are self-focused and self-serving.  They make few inroads of service to the community.  They do their own thing and exist for their own members instead of serving the people of the community.  SAD!

SOLUTION
Who can change this?

Is this the pastor's job?  Well. to some extent - Yes, it is! 

Can he do it alone?  Of course not!

The church can only change its focus if the people change their focus!  The church is not an entity - it's PEOPLE!!!  People who serve God's purposes in the world! 

A church that is vital to its community is made up of people who show a genuine interest in their community and serve joyfully in the name of Christ!  This is the kind of church that gives Christ a good name!

HAUNTING QUESTION

In reading Darrin Patrick's book, Church Planter, I came across the question:  "Would your city weep if your church did not exist?"

Yikes!  I immediately knew the answer was "No!"  In reality, if FMCC closed its doors, I think there would be a few days of shock and gossip - and then, nothing!

Am I happy about this?  Absolutely not! 

I would hope that in our future we will become a vital resource to our community!  We've made some small beginnings, but it's mostly leaders making the investment.  The congregation still thinks of the church as a clubhouse! 

But leaders lead!  Hopefully, we will see an increased willingness to take ministry to the people instead of hoping they'll come to us! 

In a couple of months we'll be focused on Jesus leaving Heaven to come to earth!  When are we going to get it?  He wants us to follow His example.  We must leave the comfort and joy of the church to go into the world! 

Incarnational ministry!  It's always been what it's all about!

Lord of the Church,
Help us to become indispensable to our community!  Teach us to give ourselves sacrificially - in Your name!
Amen.