Tuesday, November 13, 2018

what a church used to be

I saw this church in London and it got me thinking about how many churches are in decline.  How many Methodist churches are in decline.  Most of them actually.  Big churches, little churches, city and rural are almost all in decline.

Kind of depressing isn't it.

So if you can read the impressions in the stone above the church name, you will see that what is today the First Church of Christ Scientist used to be the Seventh Church of Christ Scientist.  Now on first glance a person might think that this is good.  Like I used to be in 7th place in the Indy 500 but now I am in 1st place.

This is not that situation.  The reason that this church is now #1 First Church is because the other 6 have closed.  Imagine the expense and the effort to change their sign over the years from 7th to 6th to 5th to 4th etc.  A few of the members might have had a better self image as they moved up the food chain, but inside they knew what was happening.

Back to the issue.  Churches are in decline.
This can change in my opinion.  Yesterday's chapter does not have to be tomorrow's ending.  The story line can turn.  The church survived the Roman persecution.  The church survived the black plague.  The church of Jesus Christ still has a future among the hearts of those who believe in it.

Regardless of the size of a church, if it believes in itself and stays on mission, it can make a big difference in the world.  You-you-you yourself can be a force of good in your church.  Don't measure today by yesterday but get up and give today your very best.

Margaret Mead said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world.  Indeed it is the only thing that ever has."

It's a beautiful day in God's world be sure to see the good.
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I am leading some trips this year and next. If you are interested in reading about them, or joining in, the links are below.....

Holy Land Tour - includes my favorite spots
with optional Jerusalem extension
March 4-13, 2019
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