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Home or School

I went to a church that shut down every July. The sabbatical served two major purposes.  First the staff was ensured a respite every year. Secondly, members were encouraged to visit other churches.  


The practice welcomed three unconventional possibilities. Members were commissioned to share our church's strengths with other churches; and/or, conversely, members could glean strengths from others to bring back home in August.  Lastly, should one visit another church and feel more at home elsewhere, members were free to prayerfully explore making a more permanent change.


An endless discussion could be had regarding the need for ministerial rest, but I want to touch on the refreshing philosophy of not being obsessed with church attendance. 


My current pastor seems utterly unconcerned with church numbers. Furthermore the man he is on stage is exactly the man he is at home and everywhere else. That is not to say he doesn't present well. On the contrary, he embodies discipline, structure, and is a noteworthy speaker.


In the modern church, I have noticed an imbalance between ideologies. Church leadership can portray an over exaggerated image of nonconformity that usually breeds a lack of excellence, just as the opposite can be said.


Truly relying on God versus the approval of man for clergy and lay people alike actually produces freedom not extremism. 


Freedom allows some churches to feel like home, and others to be more about equipping for the final destination.  A mark of this liberty is the support of existing and the release of new ministries.


In the quest for belonging and healthy attachment it's important to remember: more than just two options exist. Some places are for a season and maybe even teaching.  We must use discernment and not fall into the traps of misplaced loyalty or offense.


If a place of former comfort no longer seems as welcoming, don't deny your experience. Prayerfully ask the Lord why your feelings have changed. 


Perhaps what you assumed was home, was really school.


Are there any changed feelings you need to pray about?


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