Must August 7, 2015

⁴⁹ And he said to them, “Why were you looking for me? Did you not know that I must be in my Father's house?” Luke 2:49 ESV

This past Sunday our small group leader asked how our society/culture had changed over the past several  years.  People suggested things like the acceptance of premarital sex, rise of R-rated movies, gay marriage, etc.  All accompanied by a lot of knowing nods.  When I suggested the decreasing church attendance by "Christians" there were considerable fewer nods.  It seems all too often Christians like to blame the ills of society on the government, the President, Planned Parenthood, the "liberals", etc.  At the end of the day, personal holiness is no longer a priority with many believers.  The importance of gathering together with other believers has decreased significantly even in my lifetime.

When I was growing up in Bolivar there was Sunday School in the morning, Sunday preaching, Training Union on Sunday evenings, Sunday evening preaching, and a Wednesday night service.  All Sunday services were well attended, and while not as many attended Wednesday night services, the town organizations did not schedule Wednesday night services because it was "church night".  One study reports that only 17% of Americans attend church on a regular basis.*

The word choice of Christ our Savior even as a child tells the difference.  In Luke he tells his parents, "I must be in my Father's house"  Must.  Not "it would be nice if".  Not "if there is nothing else better to do."  Not "if the game starts at 1 p.m."  Must.  Have to.  No other options.

Just recently Ridgecrest cancelled its Sunday night services and is going to three Sunday morning services.  I won't argue the necessity of or lack thereof for there Sunday morning services, but the cancellation of Sunday night services is one less opportunity for people to attend church.  Wednesday night services are held in the small chapel not the main auditorium due to small attendance.  

I realize that church attendance is not connected to salvation, but I do believe it is a barometer of the spiritual health of a country.  And it is not looking good for America.

http://www.churchleaders.com/pastors/pastor-articles/139575-7-startling-facts-an-up-close-look-at-church-attendance-in-america.html