Tuesdays with Morris

Recently, at a leadership team meeting, our senior pastor presented our leaders with the mission, vision, and values of our church. Basically, it was a time where he shared with us what God has placed on his heart for Center Chapel…a “where we’re at, where we’re going, and how we’re going to get there” time of sharing. In making this presentation, he continually pointed to the need for an outward focus for the church…a need for the church to take seriously our call to evangelism.

Then, in an interesting time of conversation, we heard many great and wonderful ideas of things people would like to see the church do in the coming year. However, as I listened, I was struck by how every single idea shared focused on the church in an inward fashion…it was all about how to take care of ourselves. The ideas all centered on making sure everyone in the congregation knows everyone else, that we take time to recognize each and every person/family, and so on. Now, let me make myself clear, there’s nothing wrong with that stuff. But, we had just heard the outward vision for the church and how it’s not about us…it’s about reaching those that don’t know Christ. I was thankful when our pastor stopped everyone and said, “Look, this is what I’m talking about. These are some good thoughts…But, they all focus on what we can do for ourselves.”

Yesterday, I started thinking about all of this again. Emily and I had just spent Sunday worshipping in a forward, outward thinking church. We enjoyed it thoroughly! Their vision is huge…reaching every person in their county for Jesus! Wow! And, they are taking the necessary steps to make that happen. It’s a church that gives you free coffee and even lets you take it in their sanctuary…And, they have carpet every where!!!

I was reminded of the inward focus of many churches…not just Center Chapel (as every other church I’ve served at has been the same way). Our church people get more consumed in what the church is doing for them, rather than figuring out what they can do for those that aren’t in the church. People are worried about whether or not we scratch up some paint on the walls or get a stain on some carpet rather than celebrating the fact that the building is being used. Don’t get me wrong; having a presentable building is important. But, we want people to feel comfortable…like they’re at home. We can’t have people being afraid to use the building or to be in the building. So, we need to take steps towards making those that have never been to church before feel comfortable. Not freaking out about the small stuff truly helps.

I’m just struck by home much importance we place on our buildings, when in reality the buildings just don’t matter!

Jesus called us to “Go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” (Matthew 28:18-20).

See, it doesn’t say anything about having a nice building and sitting and waiting for the people to come. We’re called to go! We need to start putting more focus on doing things to make disciples of those that don’t know Him and less things trying to make sure they building is absolutely spotless. We need to turn from our inward focus and start showing some outward signs of our faith.