Church Memories

This past week, my family and I traveled to Colorado in order to spend time with my father-in-law and mother-in-law. I enjoy our visits with them each time we are able to make the trip.

One of the highlights of the trip is attending their church service at the Meeker Methodist Church. It is a church that has been a staple in the Vandiver family since 1971. While the building has been remodeled and a new sanctuary added, it remains in the same location on the corner of 8th and Park, as it has been since 1893. The worship services there are full of joy with friendly people and Biblical preaching by Pastor Cherie Cobb.

Each time I enter or even drive by MMC, memories of a day in June, 1995 enter my mind. Our wedding day! I recall the family and friends gathered to witness our vows, the lengthy message delivered by Pastor Elmo (his real name), and – most importantly – the sight of my beautiful bride before my eyes. I remain thankful that she said “yes” the previous October and “I do” that day.

I am sure that you, too, have places where wonderful memories enter your mind. I hope a church is one of those – that the sight of the steeple, cross, sign, or strip-mall-church-entrance brings a smile to your face.

However, for some people, I know the sight of a church may bring painful memories to mind. For those for whom that is true, I pray for healing.

If you attend a church - and especially if you are an active participant in church - I have a request to make of you. Would you do all you can to see to it that the people who join you for church experience love, joy, and an exposure to Godly truth? Would you take steps now so that in the future when a man or woman (who is now a boy or girl) drives by your church, wonderful memories come to mind? Do your best to make your church a place where people want to attend and where they feel loved.

Create wonderful church memories for yourself and for those who will drive by twenty-eight years from now.

#ordinarylives

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