Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)
Why do we go to church? It is a question I anticipate my children asking many times over the next several years. They are still young enough that a simple “because” or “to say thank you to God” is enough for them to accept. As they age, though, I expect this passage will lend some help.
Yes, we attend to worship and thank God for the gift of Grace, but we also gather because of the church family. Much like this passage suggests, we need each other’s encouragement to continue the path of thankfulness and good deeds. Without someone else holding our hand or simply watching us, it would be easy to focus only on ourselves. The church reminds us that we are part of something greater than ourselves, and that we show thankfulness by loving God and others.
In addition to simply meeting, the church acts as a sounding board for how we “spur one another” or at least reflect on God’s teachings. Devotions and study of the Bible encourage us to ask questions and think more deeply about our faith and the actions we take. Reflection and study are very good things! If we find someone with a different idea, it forces us to examine our own ideas. If we retain our idea, then we have strengthened it, and if we do not, then we have grown with the help of others!
As we enter a new school year, I hope that we all take the time to gather, learn, and encourage others to do the same.
Questions for Reflection:
- What do you tell people when they ask why you go to church?
- What encouragement do you receive to do good deeds and love others?
- What learning and study do you want to do during the school year?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of Grace and for the people you surround us with. We need each other to help us question, reflect, and grow. We also need each other’s encouragement. Thank you for putting everyone in our lives. Amen.
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