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When “Reality” Sets In
I love being a dad! There are days when it is difficult, but, as we look at the “big picture,” it is a very rewarding work. As children age, though, there are certain things that are harder to explain. Recently, my family got in our car and headed toward the church building for our evening worship assembly. We left at about our usual time, backed down our driveway, and started down the street. My two children usually sing or just enjoy the regular sights. On this trip, however, we got a teachable moment that I wish we didn’t have to have. My daughter, age 4, spoke up and said, “Daddy,…
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"Joke" or "Opportunity"?
Many congregations will see an increase in attendance this Sunday, since it is the Sunday prior to Christmas. For many, this is one of the times that “you have to go to church,” since we see so many reminders of the birth of Jesus this time of year. I think it’s sad that many congregations see this as only a joke. Someone comes to worship because it’s “Christmastime,” and, for some, the first thought is “We’ll see you again at Easter.” We simply welcome them, wish them well, and assume they won’t be back any time soon. I’ll be honest. That is the case for a vast majority of visitors this…
