Have a ball, be a blessing

I have always thought that some of the greatest value of church activities is not so much the fun had at them but the fellowship. Today our church has an activity together where we’ll rent some lanes at a bowling alley and grab something to eat afterwards. Some people aren’t much for bowling and some people need those rails, ha !   But it’s enjoyable to spend time with God’s people and get to know them better.  We tend to pick and choose church activities like we do items on a smorgasboard – I don’t like that so I’m not attending.  Granted there are activities just not suited for certain folks in the church.  I would not fault at all the older folks if they resisted a snowboarding event, nor would I think less of teen boys refusing to go on a shopping trip together to the outlets !  But you get the picture.  Or we can balk at the cost to us and not consider the worthwhile investment in your family and your church family.

As the church was just beginning, as recorded in Acts, they spent a good bit of time together not just worshipping but socializing too.  Dr. Luke wrote, “And they, continuing daily with one accord in the temple, and breaking bread from house to house, did eat their meat with gladness and singleness of heart”  (2:46).   Imagine the conversations in the different homes, the laughter, the serious conversations, the bad jokes (still present in our churches and gatherings today !), and the spiritual bonding and encouragement that resulted in what he wrote next: “Praising God, and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved.” (2:47).  Their time well spent in fellowship was a HUGE blessing, not only to their new church but to the community at large ! Often our activities take us into places outside our church walls and others can witness our joy and love for one another and attract others to the Lord – activities can be, in this sense, highly evangelistic !

So, next time you see an activity scheduled at your church, truly consider not just the fun or lack thereof you perceive in it but the real blessings to your church, your community, your family !! Go have some fun and some great fellowship !!!