What would happen if ministers adopted the same attitude toward the church services that some members do? If they did we might read:
The funeral of Mrs. John Doe had to be postponed yesterday because the minister failed to show up. He left early for the beach. He said later that remaining in town until 2 o’clock for the funeral would have ruined his whole day, so he called and told them “tomorrow he could be sure to come”. He mentioned that Mrs. Doe had missed church herself many times to go to the same beach, and if she were alive she would understand.
or
There was no service at the local church this morning because the minister had company arrive just as he was getting ready to leave. His brother, whom he had not seen in many years, drove in just as the minister was about to head for the church house. He said everybody would understand. Hundreds had missed for the same reason.
or
The large crowd at the wedding of Gertie Marlene was quite disappointed yesterday when the minister failed to show up. He was tired after preaching two times on Sunday and since this was a Monday wedding, he just couldn’t make it. He was just plain weary! He was sorry he was not there, but he knew the bride and groom would understand. They had both been telling him for the past two years that they were too tired on Sunday to come to church.
or
The baptismal service was canceled yesterday when the minister failed to show. He sent word that he liked to worship in the great outdoors and left on a fishing trip. He told friends to come back next week, and if it wasn’t raining he would try to be there.
I’m sure if I behaved in that fashion the deacons and Personnel Committee would want to speak to me privately. And rightly so! Wouldn’t you agree that participation in God’s work through the church should take a greater priority in many of our lives?
Hebrews 10:24-25 says “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another” When you and I stay away from meeting together with brothers and sisters in Christ we not only hurt ourselves but others – for one of the key purposes for you being in church services is to bless other believers [spur on, encourage].
There is a wonderful place for vacations. And emergencies do occur. BUT, truly, what priority are you giving toward your participation in God’s work through the church? The excuses some give to not participating wouldn’t fly with their employers at work. Ah, but surely God will understand.
I’ll try to be there next Sunday,
Pastor Steve