The Unassuming Beauty of the Local Church
As I walk through my neighborhood, I notice a house with a bold green sign that reads, “I’m Gorgeous Inside!” The exterior of the house is unremarkable, with dingy vinyl siding and a busy road location. But the sign beckons me to look beyond the surface, to discover the hidden beauty within. Similarly, the local church may appear ordinary at first glance, but it holds a profound beauty and value that can only be appreciated by looking deeper.
The church is a gathering of ordinary people from all walks of life, united in their commitment to an invisible mission. We are imperfect, with our own set of flaws and quirks. Our worship services may not be polished, and our coffee may not be the best. But despite our shortcomings, the church is a treasure trove of beauty and worth.
The apostle Paul, who once persecuted the church, came to understand its true value. He wrote extensively about the church’s worth, using words like “beloved” and “saints” to describe its members. Paul’s experiences in the church were not always easy; he faced skepticism, personal attacks, and disappointment. Yet, he continued to affirm the truth about God’s people, encouraging others to do the same.
We can learn from Paul’s example. When we face difficulties in the church, our natural inclination is to criticize or gossip. Instead, we should speak honorably of our fellow believers, recognizing that God values them highly. We should also prioritize gathering together, as Paul did, even when it’s hard. Our presence and participation in the church are essential to our own spiritual growth and to the well-being of the community.
Paul’s love for the church was not just sentimental; it was actionable. He worked tirelessly on behalf of the churches, prayed for them, and was willing to sacrifice himself for their sake. As we serve the church, we will find our hearts becoming more deeply invested in its people.
Finally, Paul’s epistles are filled with thanksgiving for the churches. He gave thanks for their faith, gifts, prayers, and love for one another. We can follow his example by cultivating a spirit of gratitude for the church, looking for reasons to rejoice and express our thanks publicly.
The truth about the church shapes our experience of it. As we come to appreciate its beauty and value, belonging to this ordinary gathering of people becomes one of the highest joys and greatest privileges of our lives. In the unassuming assembly of our local churches, Christ manifests his glory. So let us delight in the church, imperfect as it may be, and discover the beauty that lies within.
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