It’s not always easy to attend a church conference. For my husband and I, it meant two days of driving, a lot of fast food (not our favorite) and giving up the daily routines that make us comfortable. It’s tempting to say, “let’s just forget it this year, and stay home.” After all, we can read the reports and check out the website for more information. We’ll see some pictures and get more information from The Ambassador. Do we really need to be there?
Well, there are reasons to spend the time and money to attend a conference. We get to see other members of the denomination we’ve met in the past. We pray together. We hear about what other congregations are doing. We learn things. We sing new songs. We’re inspired and encouraged. There is something about worshipping with a large group of that lifts us up. So, yes, despite the inconveniences, making an effort to be there is worthwhile.
Guess what? The same reasons apply to attending your local congregation. During the COVID pandemic, many people became accustomed to simply “watching” church on the internet. Others lost the habit of church attendance altogether. It’s certainly easier to sleep in, stay in your pj’s and listen to the sermon when it fits into your schedule. However, if you do that, you’re missing out on the many blessings I listed above.
There’s a reason for church conferences, and a reason for church services. We need to be a community. We need to be together. That’s part of being the body of Christ, and the BIble commands it.
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.” Hebrews 10:24-25
Lutheran Ladies Connection 