24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 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
I am quickly approaching a decade spent at the same church. In our day of endless options, this is no small feat. Like with many things, time has flown by, exposing seasons and vulnerabilities along the way. I can honestly say that I have met some of the best people here and could never imagine my life without them. Any spiritual depth I possess can be traced to these bonds who have selflessly and graciously shown me what following Christ in the public square can look like. There have been times where I have struggled (understatement) personally, yet in every instance God used this network of beautifully broken believers to encourage and breathe life into my weary soul. While I don’t use the term flippantly, this place has become home and its people my family.
Of course it has not always been perfect. There have been more than a few times I felt the urge to leave. That itch within your soul never goes away fully, regardless of maturity or status. Unchecked conflict or hurts can widen the gap between the ideal and the actual in a way that makes it seem impossible to continue. I honestly understand why people leave churches, but I think we often rob ourselves of the richest spiritual and relational growth when we do. It was never supposed to be easy, but it will always be worth it. The Church is not perfect – not even close. There is hurt, incomplete theology, and frustration in every institution of man. Perhaps now more than ever, we have reached a breaking point in its practice. Yet, we change by commitment and not by exclusion. If we have a dream for a church, we work towards it within the system. Perhaps the Church needs us just as much as we need it.
There are many believers who chose to opt out of this institutional relationship. Whether through hurt or time, they practice faith separate from the building and its people. While I would never question their earnestness or spiritual grit, I do believe they handicap the movement of Christ. Relationship and story are two of the most traveled paths our savior uses to change His children. His people also serve as a protection against the empty philosophies and promises of this world.
Church, I love you. With all your warts and politics, you have taught and shown me grace. You continue to be a safety net and a release valve for this manic writer. I am honored to be a small part of your family and mission.
Matt simon blog 