Being the Church Beyond Sundayಮಾದರಿ

Being the Church Beyond Sunday

I saw an online post a while ago that resonated with me and applies to this week's devotionals. It states, “The devil doesn't care if you go to Church or read your Bible, as long as you don't apply it to your life."

Applying it to your life means following Christ every day of the week, not just Sundays.

Furthermore, Jesus loves the Church and will come back for His beautiful Bride when He returns (Ephesians 5:25-27). As men of faith, we must love the Church the way Jesus loves her. Do you cherish the Church? Do you bask in the Almighty's presence when attending a Sunday service, as Matthew 18:20 proclaims, "For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them"?

The Church is facing persecution in over fifty countries and is indirectly under attack worldwide. We must be men who stand up for the Church with courage. Let's not forget to pray for our brothers and sisters in these countries, that they may find strength and courage in the face of persecution. The scandals surrounding sexual abuse and residential schools have cast a negative light on the Church recently. Unfortunately, sometimes, this is the only perception that some of our friends and family have of the Church.

If men like us don't work to change their views, who will?

Jesus instructed us to make disciples from every nation (Matthew 28:18-20); part of that process is inviting them into our church family. Have you invited your neighbors to your church? We asked a close neighbor to join us at church one Sunday, but she politely declined. I pray it won’t be her only opportunity to hear the Gospel.

This week, we are exploring the importance of the Church and our commitment beyond just Sunday morning. God loves us every day, not just on Sundays. In reciprocation, men need to reflect His light seven days a week. Let's encourage each other in this mission.

Prayer: Father, grant us the wisdom to love Your Church and to live as if every day is Sunday. Amen.

Reflection: Are you the same person at church as you are at work? If not, what is different? Why do you think that is?