Posted by
OneCompass on Sunday, July 09, 2006 9:59:16 AM
It's Sunday morning and we will attend church. That's what Sunday mornings are for, church. I was raised that way. Growing up, it didn't matter that the mass was in Latin and I couldn't understand any of it. I just knew attendance was mandatory to stay out of H_ _ _. Yet, despite the motivation of fear, I am thankful we attended every Sunday. Sunday was special, a Holy day.
I no longer practice Catholicism but worship at an evangelical Presbyterian church. Our pastor's sermons are so educational that I take pages of notes. In eight years of attendance, I have filled several notebooks. I no longer fear hell.
What do I fear? Terrorism. I am a talk radio junkie and listen to the updates. But most of the time terrorism seems so far away. The city where we live seems protected from those bad people. Most moms I know will not engage in a conversation on the topic. What do we talk about? We talk endlessly about the kids, their teachers, their friends, toys, TV, discipline, and husbands' work schedule.
We also don't talk about Sunday's sermon. Many God loving families no longer belong to and rarely attend church. Several were raised in a church and believe in the importance of church teachings, especially for their children. Several parents will drive miles out of their way to ensure that their children attend the right Christian preschool ("It has such great values!") Believing I have a fellow churchgoer to talk to, I will ask, "What church do you attend.” A very common response, "We don't. We are in between churches. We can't find the perfect one that both my husband and I can agree.” What is it that they want in this perfect sanctuary? Most love the praise singing but cannot handle the talk on, "SIN!” Yikes! The sermons filling my notebooks focus on accepting Jesus as savior who died for our sins, loving thy neighbor (yes that does include the Muslim and the homosexual), and finding your earthly purpose.
I struggle every day with being a good Christian mom and wife. Walking "The Walk" is difficult for me; however, knowing that I will go on Sunday to service renews my hope and gives me strength. It is a comfort to worship with others. The effects last beyond Sunday. How could I even consider denying this weekly ritual to my children (not to mention the daily prayers)? I know these parents believe in God and their love will strengthen a church body. Please join a Christ centered church - it will not be perfect - but it will not hurt. Unbelievably, it will strengthen my family and our friendship.