This isn't really a Christmas story. I'm not describing the wise men as they traveled to see the baby Jesus (Not in the manger by the way...but that is another post for another time).
No, this is about the church I serve. For some reason, for years, our draw of attendees has come from quite some distance to attend church here, despite passing several churches of similar tradition and style. Several people drive over 25 miles just to come to church here. For several years now I have told my wife that I would never be surprised if some of these families were to begin attending churches closer to home. With the price of gas right now I am doing everything I can to conserve on the gas, and many other people are as well.
Why did it bother me this week to find out that we have lost our first long time family to this problem? I guess the answer is simply that I care about those people. I have been to events for their children. I have been in their home, they have been in my home. Our kids have had sleep overs together.
Actually, I think what bothers me the most is that they didn't tell me they were leaving. Word came through another kid in the Sunday school class. Yes, anyone leaving hurts, but when there is a legitimate reason for it, I understand completely. Just tell me.
Maybe I am too sensitive...probably I am too sensitive. I trust that they are still attending church and growing...perhaps even more then they would have here. I just hate losing family.
No, this is about the church I serve. For some reason, for years, our draw of attendees has come from quite some distance to attend church here, despite passing several churches of similar tradition and style. Several people drive over 25 miles just to come to church here. For several years now I have told my wife that I would never be surprised if some of these families were to begin attending churches closer to home. With the price of gas right now I am doing everything I can to conserve on the gas, and many other people are as well.
Why did it bother me this week to find out that we have lost our first long time family to this problem? I guess the answer is simply that I care about those people. I have been to events for their children. I have been in their home, they have been in my home. Our kids have had sleep overs together.
Actually, I think what bothers me the most is that they didn't tell me they were leaving. Word came through another kid in the Sunday school class. Yes, anyone leaving hurts, but when there is a legitimate reason for it, I understand completely. Just tell me.
Maybe I am too sensitive...probably I am too sensitive. I trust that they are still attending church and growing...perhaps even more then they would have here. I just hate losing family.
