Churches are Blessed Places

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Today’s reading: Matthew 26:17-45

I have many friends and family who proclaim a faith in Jesus Christ but who haven’t been to church in years. They usually say they object to the general spirit of hypocrisy in many (if not most) churches today.

I usually agree with that criticism, but I’m glad I’m a church-goer anyway.

I’m active in two churches these days, and neither of them are perfect.  But, then, God knows my own life is often a testament to hypocrisy too. Just last night, for example —  a couple of days after lecturing a young man about his loud use of profanity at a restaurant– I played a frustrating match of tennis and heard myself cursing loudly after at least a dozen terrible shots. And the night before, a buddy of mine invited me out for dinner at a less-than-wholesome spot. Despite my fairly recent vows to give up drinking entirely, I happily downed more than a pitcher of beer with my friend, and the conversation turned bawdy at times.

All of this from a guy who posts these borderline-self-righteous little essays almost every day!

Yes, I’m a hypocrite, too!  My churches are a perfect fit for me!

All of this comes to mind today as I ponder the tragically comforting story in today’s reading:  even Jesus’s very disciples could counted upon only for hypocrisy when He needed them most.

“Then he came to the disciples and said to them, ‘Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? See, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.’ (Verse 45)

It seems I, and my churches, are in great, sinful company.  These men who fell asleep on Jesus are, arguably, the most Godly in history!

This story has helped me understand it’s unfair to expect a church (or even a solitary Christian) to be anything but hypocritical. And, since forgiveness is Christ’s theme, it’s unChristian to avoid a church (or a man) on grounds on hypocrisy.

I am happy to report that I find all churches (even those with whom I theologically disagree) to be exciting, loving places. Sure they all have their faults, but there’s no Christian point in dwelling upon those.  I, for one, am always excited to abide in Christ. And what better place to find Him than a church? He’s always there. Even if he’s sometimes a little difficult to locate.

Thanks be to God for this glorious body built by His word and blood. May I always remain an active part of it, even during the times when I stumble.