Part three and the final in this series. I have struggled each week with each one of these articles. I understand that they will not be popular for the most part. We generally do not like to be told that we fall WAY short of God's expectations. Although subconsciously we already know it, for that is why we need Jesus, it is still not comforting when are flaws are laid bare for all of the world to see.
This week's article deals with the many things that we put ahead of our relationship with God. When God said, "You shall have no other Gods before me," and "Do not make for yourself an idol," what did he mean exactly? Many are led to believe that as long as they do not have some little figure cast out of metal or wood sitting on their mantle, then they are honoring these commands. When will we realize that ANYTHING we place priority on over our relationship with God IS an idol?
For instance, how many parents go to great lengths to make sure their children do not miss practice (i.e. football, basketball, soccer, band, etc.), and many times, over going to church or a church sponsored event. As a minister I have often wondered how our churches might change if many parents were as passionate about their child's spiritual formation as they are their athletic development.
How many times have parents allowed their children to stay home and finish homework, rather than attend church? Don't misunderstand me here; I realize the importance of an education in today's world and culture. However, I am certain that all of the physics, chemistry, English, geometry, etc., is going to be a big help for the Second Coming Final. What about studying the Scriptures, growing in our relationship with God, and fostering relationships that provide strength and encouragement for daily Christian living?
How many times have we chosen to sleep in, or go home and rest, because we were just too tired to attend church? Sorry, but all I hear is, "I'm tired…and my rest is way more important than my time with God." I know you may have had a rough day. When I have a rough day, the one place I look forward to being…in church, among brothers and sisters, worshipping a God that loves me, promises to carry my burdens, and is the only one who can provide true rest and peace.
How many parents give their children the CHOICE to attend church? When I was growing up, attending church was not optional in my house. You can call that authoritarian, oppressive, mean, or whatever, but that has impressed something upon me. How? Well, when it is Sunday or Wednesday, you will always know where to find me!
I read this article this morning in the Christian Chronicle and I thought I might share it with you. This is to all parents who might struggle with whether or not it is imperative that you attend church as a FAMILY (in other words, "the attendance without an option", option). Colt McCoy, starting quarterback of the University of Texas Longhorns, was interviewed recently concerning his beliefs and the spiritual influences in his life. It was said of him, "McCoy is much more than a gridiron great. He rarely misses a Sunday service – even when his team returns late from an away game the night before." When asked about his influences when it came to attending church, he said, "We didn't have much of a choice when we were young. We were at church every time the doors were open – and sometimes when they weren't. It was not an option to miss church for anything." Reread that last sentence, then read this one, "Those priorities made a big impression on me and my brothers; being in worship was always a priority."
I know I have picked on parents a lot in this article, but I will not apologize for that. God entrusted us with our children for a reason. He gave us the task of parenting because he knew that our children were not spiritually mature enough to make those decisions on their own. And here we are, giving them the option of missing out on becoming spiritually mature. Does that make sense? Parenting is not a popularity contest. Requiring your family to attend church together will certainly not always make you the popular parent. BUT…It is not every parent that could release their child onto the campus of UT Austin and feel confident that they will excel spiritually. Colt McCoy has, and I would bet that parents, Brad and Debra, do not regret one minute the priority they placed on attending worship in their home.
Blessings…
