Published on April 8, 2024, 12:32 am

Image source: Fox News

In our increasingly fragmented society, differences in geographical location, financial standing or mental health state may mean that many lack immediate family members or friends as a support system. In the face of such loneliness and isolation, people around us – particularly those who adhere to a Christian worldview- are called upon to extend a helping hand. To be keen observers looking out for signs of vulnerability in others is an imperative step in fostering this sense of community.

As believers in Christ’s teachings, we are instructed to love the marginalized and the lonely. This sentiment is beautifully encapsulated by 1 Corinthians 13:7 which postulates that love always protects, trusts, hopes and perseveres. The church provides an ideal backdrop for manifesting this sort of Christ-like love.

Who are you currently investing your encouragement and prayers in? Are you striving to uplift the troubled spirits within your congregation while consistently distancing yourself from the ‘lone ranger’ demeanor? A believer occupied with these questions is likely overwhelmed with eagerness to serve their spiritual companionship and impart love propelled by Christian ethos.

Regrettably, during COVID times, numerous devoted disciples have distanced themselves from their fellow devotees’ physical presence due to contagion concerns – what I term as the “COVID curse”. Such distancing instigates challenges on spiritual growth as it impedes sharing God’s word collectively. Consequently, churches must encourage congregants not only to frequent church but also actively contribute towards expanding Christ’s teachings.

Despite previous encounters with unfulfilling congregational experiences characterized by oppressive or suffocating spiritual atmospheres, every believer yearns for fellowship overflowing with God’s grace. Being devoid of fellowship may result in feelings similar to those experienced by adolescent fending alone on unfriendly streets.

Iconic evangelist D.L Moody categorically stated that attending Church is necessary for a disciple while Martin Luther perceived collective adoration of Father equally mandatory as prayer for Christian life progression. If disciples overly focus on independent worship or neglect praying with the church body, they tend to detach from the Christian tribe.

The Holy Spirit incites a yearning among believers for God’s word and mutual felicity, reminiscent of Pentecost celebrations. The early church constantly celebrated Lord’s supper and engaged in fervorous prayers, evocative of Christ’s redeeming love grafting them into a single body.

Everyone battling the “COVID curse” needs encouragement to seek out a convivial congregation where they can serve and uplift others. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers not to forsake collective worship but encourage each other, especially as ‘the Day’ approaches.

Lastly, it raises an intriguing question – when was the last time you invited a friend or family member to church? Research posits that most newcomers join churches due to such personal invitations.

Coupled with an increased desire to participate in loving outreach, extending such invitations presents an opportunity for fostering greater unity within Christ’s bride – the Church. After all, isn’t every believer called upon to alleviate pain and suffering just as Jesus did on the cross?

Therefore this weekend as you wonder ‘Who will I see at Church?’, challenge yourself not just to look but really SEE those around you through Jesus’s eyes of compassion and empathy.