Heaven A Little Closer
50Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous: 1 Peter 3:8 (KJV)
North Greenville College is a long way in my past. The memories of those campus days are still fresh and precious. For a time a group of us preacher boys (I was twenty-six) met in the post office every evening at 9 for Bible study and prayer. We sat on the floor and opened our Bibles and our hearts to God’s teaching.
As the years roll by we each have fond memories of times at church. It could be a Sunday School class, maybe Vacation Bible School, perhaps Sunday night youth meetings. Some of you may remember a weeklong revival that each night brought Heaven a little closer.
There was a sad story today on the Oprah website. (I found the link on the New York Times page.) The woman writing told of her parent’s great faith and of her own doubt and inability to believe. She wanted to but there were just so many scientific and logic reasons not to believe. None of her friends were believers but laughed at the idea of believing in God.
“Be ye of one mind – love as brethren”. The phrases speak of connection with others – others who believe. Jesus said, “Where two or more are gathered in my name I am in the midst of them.” It can be said that Jesus is the uniting force of faith and love for one another. How very alone we would be without others who believe as we do. The doubts would get the better of us.
Those precious memories of being with others will wilt like summer flowers if we neglect the assembling of ourselves together. He is our life and our bond. Amen!
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Comments
People often say, "I don't see any value in going to church." It's kind of like the kid who says, "I don't need to go to school. I can learn just fine at home." WE need a teacher and we need to go through the learning process with others. Our skills are sharpened by the interaction with others.
People are funny in that we don't think anyone else thinks the thoughts we think or feels about things the way we feel about them. When we meet in groups we find out that we aren't as strange as we think and what we feel or think isn't that uncommon.
In church, God opens our minds and hearts. He puts us in touch with just the right people at the right moments. Discussions where we learn and get our questions asked just come out of the blue. Church, for those who are sincere in wanting to grow in faith, is amazing.
greatAmerican says:
5 months ago
I am not a non believer, I am not a strong believer, I admire anyone who has so much faith in the unknown.
Thanks...