52 Reasons to Love the Church

#17- It’s the Only Thing that Makes Sense

By Kathy Pollard

It’s a grim outlook if you watch the news to see how we’re measuring up as a nation. For the past couple of weeks, I’ve seen several studies-have-shown reports covering such topics as mental/ social/ physical health of children and adults, the education system, anger management, social media, etc. None of them have been positive. Reports are also coming in daily of the latest commodities to experience cost inflation, political scandals, and terrorist activities. I have no idea how accurate what we’re being fed actually is, but I’m not surprised that many around us seem to be affected by it.

Perhaps in your congregation you’ve experienced an increase in people showing up and looking for something. Neal pointed out to me that many of the Bible studies and baptisms here have been young adults from the community. They seem to be searching for solidarity and truth. One young woman even said, “I want to believe. I just don’t know what to believe.” She simply wanted to know about God and the Bible. Another word that keeps coming up from searchers is “community.” People are tired of disconnectedness and superficial relationships. They’re looking for family, support, and a good place to belong.

I imagine every generation thinks the condition of the world during their lifetime is the most ridiculous. Think about what our parents, grandparents, and great grandparents experienced! But no matter what is going on out there, the church stands secure (Daniel 2:44), has a solid foundation (Eph. 2:20), is full of purpose (Eph. 2:10), and is all about community and support (Rom. 12:5). What a contrast to the senselessness around us!

Let’s keep our eyes and hearts open to the souls who are hungering for more than what the world has to offer.

So then you are no longer strangers and aliens, but you are fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Christ Jesus himself being the cornerstone, in whom the whole structure, being joined together, grows into a holy temple in the Lord.

(Eph. 2:19-21)

52 Reasons to Love the church

#16-Home

By Kathy Pollard

‘Home’ is a word that you feel. It is often associated with security, belonging, rest, and love. It seems to me that God blesses us with a home three times over:

  • Our Family Home– We have the one we grow up in and the one we create as adults. If we build them with biblical wisdom, they can be “precious and pleasant” (Prov. 24:3-4).
  • Our Church Home– This household of God is filled with brothers and sisters who love and honor one another (1 Tim. 3:15; Rom. 12:9-10).
  • Our Heavenly Home– The Father’s house is filled with many rooms (John 14:2-3), will last forever (Matt. 6:19-20), and is built by the One who loves us most (Heb. 11:16).

Our family homes aren’t perfect, are they? As much as we love each other, we still experience strife, heartache, and disappointment. Yet our homes are most dear to us, and we do our best to protect and cherish them.

Our church homes aren’t perfect either because they are filled with imperfect people. Sometimes there are personality conflicts and growing pains. But we sure need each other (!), and we thank God for the love and support of our Christian family.

Only our heavenly home will be perfect. As much as we enjoy our special homes here, the best one yet is waiting for us. There will be no tears or disappointments. God is filling it with light, love, rest, peace, and true comfort. That’s what we have to look forward to! HOME.

“In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also.”

(John 14:2-3)

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#15- the Encouragement

By Kathy Pollard

When anyone says anything encouraging to my husband, I want to hug them! It warms my heart when someone tells him his sermon was just what they needed, sends a text saying they are thankful for him, or writes him a note (that he’ll keep in a special file!). He doesn’t preach for praise, but I know that those thoughtful words encourage his soul and keep him going.

I hope you know that when you take a moment to say something kind, it means something. The Bible calls it life-giving (Prov. 18:21).

The Lord’s church is filled with people who know how to build others up, and I see it all the time. I see ladies complimenting each other (and meaning it). I see people going up to the Bible class teachers and thanking them. I see our church mailboxes filled with cards, notes, and small gifts. I see people greeting each other with kind words. It makes me smile to stand in the middle of it all and overhear conversations filled with sweet words, thoughtful questions, and friendly laughter. Where else can you go and be consistently lifted up? God’s people have received His grace and love and are so good at giving it back to His people.

Let’s prayerfully remember:

  • To be aware of and acknowledge the efforts of others to lift us up. How easy it is to brush it off or miss it in our distractedness.
  • To make sure those who are awfully good at encouraging others (you know who they are) are getting it themselves.
  • To thank God for His people and the support they give. They really are the best!

Also remember, if you feel like there’s not enough encouragement going on, you can redouble your own efforts. I’ve said it before…when you feel something is lacking in your church family, the good news is that YOU ARE the church. You can be the change by speaking uplifting words and sending lots of life-giving texts.

“Let no corrupting talk come out of your mouths, but only such as is good for building up, as fits the occasion, that it may give grace to those who hear.“

(Ephesians 4:29)

Ollie napping on the couch. This has nothing to do with today’s topic. 🙂

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#14-Examples of Faithfulness

By Kathy Pollard

One of our church members just lost her mother. I overheard Neal’s conversation with her on the phone. He was listening to our member describing her mother’s diligent faithfulness and examples of quiet service. At one point he said, “Her life wrote her funeral sermon.”

I’ve been to funerals where it seemed like people couldn’t say enough good things about the deceased. Stories and tears and smiles were shared as they recalled their loved one’s thoughtful acts or influence or loving spirit.

In Hebrews eleven, the inspired writer gives a long list memorializing men and women whose lives were characterized by faithfulness. He did that to encourage the readers not to give up or turn back. He calls these faithful examples their “great cloud of witnesses” that should spur them on to “run with endurance the race set before them.” And then he tells them to “look to Jesus,” the “perfecter of our faith,” their greatest example of faithfulness (Heb. 12:1-2).

I’m thankful for my own cloud of witnesses, aren’t you? Those who have gone on before me and those who are still with me, whose examples convict me and inspire me. Some have shown me that faithfulness is possible even through overwhelming difficulties or harsh circumstances. Some have inspired me through their diligent service despite physical difficulties or health issues. And many have encouraged me through their lifelong love for God, the faithful legacy they are leaving their children and grandchildren. These individuals remind me of Jesus. They remind me to look to Jesus!

Thank God for faithful Christians!

“Therefore do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God you may receive what is promised.”

(Hebrews 10:35-36)

My grandpa, Dale Gillaspie, and Neal’s grandpa, H.E. Mitchell

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#13- The Simple Pattern

By Kathy Pollard

God was good to us when He gave us a guidebook for the church. Everything we need to know about His church is in His Word. We don’t have to come up with it on our own. We don’t have to vote on it. We don’t have to hope we’re getting it right. All we have to do is open the Bible and follow the pattern.

Consider some fundamental, important aspects that we learn about in the New Testament:

  • who is the head of the church
  • the organization of the church
  • how one becomes a member of the church
  • what we are supposed to do in worship
  • how we live as members of the church

Every congregation that follows God’s pattern in these areas will look like and be His church. It’s that simple. “We speak where the Bible speaks and are silent where the Bible is silent.” I’ve heard this saying for years and find it reassuring because using the same divine pattern promotes unity and removes contradiction or confusion.

How do we know if we’re a part of the New Testament church in the sea of today’s church choices? How do we know if the worship we lift up to God is what He really wants? It is wonderful and empowering to know that all we have to do is compare it to what we read in the Bible. Hold it up to the pattern and see if it looks the same!

“Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.“

(2 Timothy 1:13)

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#12- All the Connections

By Kathy Pollard

Don’t you love visiting a congregation while traveling and discovering some sort of connection with one of the members? It seems like no matter where you go, you find someone who knows someone you know. What do we say when that happens? “It’s a small world!”

It makes me smile when that happens because that seemingly random connection is a reminder that we are all united in Christ (John 17:22-23). We are one body, made up of many members (Romans 12:4-5). If you’ve attended a family reunion, you know that there could be people there you haven’t actually met. The first thing you do is discover how you’re related. They explain, “I’m your aunt’s first cousin’s husband’s sister.” You say, “Oh wow, that’s so great, nice to meet you!” What’s so great about it? Just the fact that you’re connected. And when it comes to family, the more the merrier! (Or maybe I just feel that way because I come from a relatively small family.) With that connection comes a sense of belonging, confirms that sense of belonging. And we all want that.

The fact that we’re all brothers and sisters in Christ whether we’ve met or not is already a beautiful blessing of Christianity. But there’s something extra special about those threads that bind us together when we run into people who somehow know our people. When that happens, it’s like discovering a “kindredness” because of the mutual connection. God keeps giving us reasons to enjoy being with His people!

“So in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”

(Romans 12:5)

One big happy family!

Just got this message from Roger Johnson and had to share it because I love what he says at the end:

Several years ago, when Laura was about 14, we went to an annual family reunion of Joyce’s dad’s family (a large family, as all his brothers and sisters were still living). Accompanying Laura was a friend from church, so she wouldn’t get too bored I suppose. Anyhow, it was humorous to observe multiple family members speculating on who Laura’s friend was. “I think she’s one of Uncle Doug’s granddaughters.” “No, I think she’s with David and his wife. What’s her name?” “She might be Chester’s youngest granddaughter.” But nobody thought she was a party crasher.
We’ve laughed about that for 35 years.
There are no party crashes when we visit other congregations. Agree?

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#11- Our Shepherds

By Kathy Pollard

Each congregation is to appoint mature men who are responsible for the spiritual well-being of the church (Acts 14:23). These men are good leaders of their own families, self-controlled, patient, holy, and strong in the Word (Titus 1:5-9). Their responsibilities include being examples to the flock (1 Pet. 5:2-3), watching and warning the flock (Acts 20:28-31), and keeping watch over souls (Heb. 13:17). In addition to these important roles, they are to serve because they want to not because they have to (1 Pet. 5:2).

Neal and I have served under elderships in three different works in our ministry. This has allowed us to see much of their work up close and personal, and I can tell you, theirs is a 24-7, often difficult, and sometimes thankless job. They receive criticism from people who don’t have all the facts. They are usually the first to receive blame when problems arise in the congregation. And many of their tasks are not for the faint of heart. No wonder Paul wrote that they are “worthy of double honor” (1 Tim. 5:17)!

“Respect those who labor among you and are over you in the Lord” (1 Thess. 5:12). This is truly an easy command. I know elders who literally stay up all night praying for individuals. I’ve seen elders drop everything at any hour to help someone in need or show up for a baptism. I know elders who give out of their own pockets when someone is struggling. I’ve seen elders shed tears when sharing difficult truths or helping members through tragedy. Far from feeling lofty or overly important, our humble shepherds put their hand to work that brings no glory or recognition. They truly care for souls. They love people. They take their job seriously. They strengthen others. They encourage the weak. They pray without ceasing (1 Thess. 5:14-17).

God organized the church this way for our benefit. His shepherds lead us to Him, patiently, lovingly, courageously. How can we encourage them back? Pray for them (and their wives!) every day. Encourage them as often as possible. Thank them for their diligence. Trust them when they make decisions we don’t understand. And ask them how we can help.

To adapt something my son, Dale, said…”They’re not perfect, but they’re perfect for the task God has called them to do!”

“Esteem them very highly in love because of their work.”

(1 Thess. 5:13)

Russell Simpson, one of our shepherds

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#10- All the Prayers

By Kathy Pollard

“Be constant in prayer” (Rom. 12:12). “Continue steadfastly in prayer” (Col. 4:2). “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:17).

When you faithfully attend worship, you are continually led in prayer. When your family goes to Bible classes, you and your children are probably led in prayer. When ladies get together for Bible studies and ladies’ retreats, prayers are shared. When teens participate in their special events, they pray together. When someone makes a need known, the church prays on their behalf. The elders pray for your congregation and your congregation prays for your elders. When you meet for any kind of fellowship, you pray together. And, of course, you probably pray for others throughout the week, and others are praying for you.

Have you heard a prayer that left an impression on you? I think of a sterling gentleman in his 90s named Johnson Kell. You could almost feel the anticipation of the whole congregation as he slowly made his way to the pulpit. His prayers were tender and thoughtful, and often accompanied by tears. I think of Loretta Carver, who said something in a prayer during ladies’ Bible class that I’ll never forget. She said, “Lord, sometimes we draw away from You and forget how much You love us.” I actually lifted my head and looked across the room at her because I was so struck (and comforted) by the fact that someone as sweet and faithful as her struggled with that, too. These two individuals are no longer with us but their prayers still impact me.

There are so many reasons to be thankful for all of those prayers being offered up:

  • Prayer is powerful and effective (James 5:16).
  • It’s comforting to know that someone is “remembering me to the Lord,” as the old song goes (Eph. 6:18).
  • Prayer strengthens us, individually and as a congregation (Rom. 8:26-27).
  • Prayer draws us closer together (Rom. 15:5-6). Think of all the people you’ve heard pray…young, old, new Christian, or seasoned saint. When they prayed, you saw a glimpse into their heart.

Prayer is a beautiful gift from a loving Father to His children. I hope you soak them in when you’re with your church family, and carry them with you when you’re apart.

“You also must help us by prayer, so that many will give thanks on our behalf for the blessing granted us through the prayers of many.”

(2 Cor. 1:11)

Laura Warnes praying with me right before our first son got married. (photo credit: Carl Pollard)

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#9- Patient Growth

By Kathy Pollard

About six weeks ago I was watching little Jude. Janelle asked me to try giving him some sweet potatoes. (Jude’s doctor had suggested starting him on some food.) I had some sweet potatoes from the garden, so I cooked them and pureed them until they were satiny smooth. I put a tiny spoonful in Jude’s mouth. He made a face that can best be described as fearful. He worked his mouth around as if he didn’t know what to do with that stuff. When he actually started gagging, I knew for sure he wasn’t ready. I cleaned up his face and got his bottle. You know what I didn’t do? I didn’t say, “Hey, I went to the trouble to make this for you. And this is good quality. It’s organic! What’s the matter with you?” How ridiculous that would be! I wasn’t the least bit disappointed in him. I didn’t take it personally. He’s a baby and it was just too soon. Just this week Janelle sent us a video of Jude eagerly eating some banana baby food. His eyes were lit up and he was reaching for the spoon with his hands and making all kinds of happy noises. Now he’s ready!

The Lord’s church is made up of Christians in various degrees of maturity. Some are new babes in Christ. Some grew up in the church and heard the gospel all their life. Some were completely “unchurched” and are starting from scratch. Some have baggage. Some may have good understanding in one area but still struggle to understand another. Some may be eager for knowledge but still don’t grasp that it should result in transformation. We’re all in various stages. We’re all still growing. The beauty of the Lord’s church is that we understand that about each other and we’re patient with each other.

For example, if we hear someone use a verse out of context, we recognize that they still have more to learn. When a brother or sister’s words or actions show spiritual immaturity, we don’t think less of them. And in those teaching moments, when someone doesn’t seem to get it, we know they’re just not ready yet. We try not to judge or feel superior. We know we have our own areas that need work!

We’re all trying to learn the worthy walk and trying to grow in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:10). We’re all doing our best to grow beyond the milk of the Word (Heb. 5:12). And since we’re family, we’re doing it together, “with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love” (Eph. 4:2).

Jude rejecting sweet potatoes

52 Reasons to Love the Church

#8- New Births!

By Kathy Pollard

Ask any Christian and they will probably tell you that the most meaningful moments are witnessing someone put on their Lord in baptism. It never gets old!

Here are just a few reasons why baptisms bring such joy:

  • Memories. You can’t help but think back to your own baptism, that very pivotal moment when you obeyed the gospel and had your sins washed away (Ac. 22:16).
  • Family. A new brother, a new sister. Whoever came up out of that water is now a part of your family, thanks to the uniting blood of Christ (1 Tim. 3:15; 5:1-2).
  • Priority. Sometimes a soul is ready to obey the gospel late at night (Ac. 8:25-33). We experienced just such an occasion this week as a dear lady didn’t want to wait a moment longer. It was after 10 pm when she arrived at the church building. I loved seeing the individuals who were willing to come at a moment’s notice to be there for her!
  • Rejoicing. The best pictures are the ones that capture that first moment out of the water. They’re experiencing that beautiful “new life” promise (Rom. 6:4; 2 Cor. 5:17) and you can see it in their eyes. And what a contagious joy it is! When you look around at those gathered, you see it on their faces, too (as you see in the photo below).
  • Encouragement. Negativity is all around us and sometimes it seems like things are going downhill fast. But every baptism is a reminder that the Word is still powerful, that hearts are still searching, that the church is still growing, and that God’s purpose is still reigning (Mk. 16:15-16)!

We often look forward to the happiness of Heaven. Surely baptisms are a taste of the joy to come and make us long for it even more!

“Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?”

(Acts 8:36)

Look at those amazing smiles!