{For the details behind this 30 Days Series click here}

All my life I’ve attended the same little rural baptist church. Which now-a-days is no small feat considering people are on the move and non-denominational churches are popping up everywhere wooing folks with all sorts of technology, catchy music (some of which I love…) and the idea of Jesus wearing plaid.

Folks don’t stay in jobs long term anymore let alone churches. Some days I’m proud to have seen over three decades at my church.

Other days I seriously wonder if I’m nuts?

Sometimes, similar to the word of God, church can be a double edged sword. There is great victory to be found within it’s walls and there is also the worst pain inflicted, because well, it’s composed of people.

And on occasion, people can make you just want to go home, turn off the phone and curl up with your cat.

I read about Jesus washing the disciple’s feet this morning before the last supper. Bread and wine and betrayal all intertwined within that sacred space… So I guess it shouldn’t come as any surprise that the same themes would play out in our churches today.

But because of Jesus, and Him alone, we keep coming back.

We keep being faithful not because we’re paid, not because we feel the need to keep up appearances but because God calls us into fellowship and it’s not always pretty and maybe it’s not supposed to be.

Despite circumstances we are still called to give thanks in all things. We are all sinners in need of a savior.

Looking for an encouraging word and practical ways to interject more faith into our life.

Looking for like-minded travelers on life’s pathways.

Looking for a place to serve a purpose.

Looking for a place to be emptied out and filled back up.

If you have a church home, be grateful. If you’re looking for a church home, remain hopeful. If you’ve been hurt by a church, remain graceful.

The kingdom of God is near… and maybe closer than we think.

I’m thankful for my church and the hands and feet and hearts of friends turned extended family it has afforded. And most of all I’m thankful for the Father that created it, heads it up and lovingly calls us to continue seeking Him first.

♥