We are living in a world driven by technological advancements. Just about everything we do today uses some form of advanced technology. Just look at our cell phone. Back when I was a child, I could only use a phone to talk to someone on the other end; the distance I could roam while talking depended on the length of the tether from the wall. Today our cell phones are used for many different tasks, and we can use them whenever and wherever we might be. Although rarely seen from the younger generation, we can still make voice calls with them. We can also get turn-by-turn directions, do our banking, browse the internet, check our (e)mail, send electronic telegrams (text messages), play games, and much more. We can even watch a video of our church’s service right on our phone without ever needing to darken the church’s doors.
But is it good that we don’t need to attend church in person? Online services have been a necessity during the pandemic, but as we slowly come out, are they now becoming the better way to do church?
I have read numerous articles suggesting we should change how we do church now. Although I think there is much to learn from the past few years, I don’t think we should be so quick to change everything as we advance. I find one of the worst times to make big decisions is when we are most emotional. And I believe most of the world has been exceptionally emotional over various events from the past few years. I think the best thing we can do when emotions are high is take a step back, breathe, place our focus on God, and take the time to determine what He might be teaching us. I am not suggesting there isn’t a place for online services. Any means we can use to share God’s Word and draw others closer to Him is a good thing. I am just not sure it is “the” thing.
Hebrews 10:24 reminds us, “and let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.”
God created us for fellowship: Gathering together to worship, study His Word, and encourage each other to stay strong and grow in our faith. We can embrace each other during the struggles. We can better see the pain in the eyes of a fellow believer who might be hesitant to share their struggles but will open up because of the kindness and love they see in our eyes. When we gather and live life together, beyond just a Sunday morning, we draw closer together, support each other through the challenges, and celebrate the many joys of life.
Rather than living a life already heavily shared through text messages, social media posts, the occasional live video meetings, and recorded video Bible messages, I encourage you not to forget to gather with fellow believers. It’s too easy for Christians today to be distracted and find any excuse for doing what we want to do.
When we meet in person, it is much easier to take the focus off our busy lives and instead place our focus on God, His message for us, and the needs of others. God created us for relationships. From the very beginning, God asserted: “It is not good for the man to be alone” (Genesis 2:18).
