FROM YOUR PASTOR’S HEART May 1. 2023

I have never really enjoyed shopping in any format or of any kind. There was a time when my wife and I would go to the mall and spend the day walking around dreaming of the things we would buy, if we ever had any money. We might scrape together enough change to buy a soft drink to share. Yet, even then the only enjoyable part of the day was spending time with my wife. When, we finally reached a point where we had a little jingle in our pockets, we were still very reluctant to spend it on frivolous things.

My distaste for shopping has not been any deep, dark secret. My wife understands, and even shares, my feelings on the subject. She has no desire to walk the stores and search for something new, unless we really need it. I have even announced from the pulpit that if you see me at a mall for any extended period of time, call the police because I am being held there against my will! Unlike most men, I don’t even get excited about a trip to the sporting goods or hardware stores.

In our modern, high-tech world, shopping has become easy and convenient. You can sit in the comfort of your living room and order everything from groceries to a whole new wardrobe. And what makes it even more amazing is that these items will be delivered right to your door. Of course, this convenience does come at a price, but folks like me are willing to pay it to avoid facing the crowds at the stores. Occasionally, an item will have to be returned or exchanged, but even this can be done without interacting with a real person. With a few clicks on the keyboard and a quick trip to the drop-off point, your item is on its way back and the new one will arrive in short order.

Sadly, this appetite for convenience has spilled over into other areas of our lives. We are finding that even now, “post-pandemic,” many people have grown comfortable with an “on-line” lifestyle. They are grateful for every opportunity to avoid interacting with other people. This has greatly impacted the Church, as once faithful members are now satisfied with “live streaming services,” rather than attending in person. They have grown accustomed to “watching church” rather than “being the church.” We read in Hebrews 10:24-25: “And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much more as you see the Day approaching.” If you are able, make the effort to be in church next Sunday!

Serving in love, Bro. Jim