Blessing Number Four

In our day, I am sad to say, the Church of Christ is characterized by many factions, disagreements, hurt feelings, accusations, fallen leaders, anger, unbiblical practices, bad doctrines, worldliness, and the list goes on and on. In fact, I think it’s safe to say that the Church is by and large in a sad state.

However, scattered about the world are some large, but more often small, pockets of believers who gather together as local congregations seeking to honor their Savior and remain faithful to His Word. They meet together under many external conditions, some of which are hostile, and the worshippers come in a variety of colors and speech. I belong to one of these congregations.

My husband and I have been a part of our local assembly of believers for more than twenty years. It’s one of the small pockets. It’s a group bearing a few scars, which is quite common nowadays. It’s been through some waters, but has emerged without drowning. We’ve walked through a huge fire and some small brush fires, and while scorched a little, have not burned up. We have love one for another, have peace within our walls, have a love for the Word of God and have a yearning to see more souls in God’s kingdom. We have a couple of pastors who are trying to lead us in righteousness, and while I’m sure not perfectly, they are doing their best. I do believe they love us and are trying to keep watch over our souls. The Holy Scriptures and its doctrines are held in high regard. What more could I ask for in a church?

Yesterday, we heard a report from a fellow pastor who has a ministry in Zimbabwe, Africa. One of our young people recently came back from helping this pastor with that work. The people in our congregation are excited about assisting this pastor and his wife in any way we can. As small as we are, that’s the way our church is—always ready to help where there’s a need. I’m just glad to be a part.

Thank you Lord, for my church.

Blest be the tie that binds
Our hearts in Christian love:
The fellowship of kindred minds
Is like to that above.
~John Fawcett, 1782