Pentecost 44 The Stone the Builders Rejected

[HKHaugan]

Pentecost 44 The Stone the Builders Rejected

According to news sources a seven-year-old boy jumps in his family’s car and drives it away because he doesn’t want to go to church. The police catch him and turn him over to his parents. Of course we all react and say the boy needs discipline and going to church is a good thing for growing children. To my surprise a totally unexpected Scripture popped in my mind, ‘…and a child shall lead them.’ Of course that event does not fit the verse’s context but in this case the thought occurred to me that the child’s behavior leads me to face a stone in maturing disciples that may need removing.

In order to see if it is a stone in our heart we have a few questions that only each of us can answer. Why do we want people to go to church? What is it that takes place there that we want others to experience? What do we believe, maybe hope, will happen if we bring an unbeliever, a reluctant friend or relative? Are we counting on something or someone else, a sermon, an atmosphere, meeting a person, to do what Jesus call us to do? You responses would help us all. Stay tuned…….

[HKHaugan]

I thank you and Martha for your comments. You all have tested the waters and found the real issue. Every human being is built for a relationship with God and that has to be the prime directive to us all. ><>W

[anne marie morrison]

Martha's account is a wonderful example of true religion. Its not about bringing the people to a 'church', a building. Its being what they need, its about being a witness and a mentor and a discipler. Sometimes I wonder why would I want someone to "come to church". What are they going to get? A pretty sermon, some nice music, a 'right' place in society?

Is the boy in the car running away from that 'religion'? Perhaps he is on the road to doing as Jesus commanded us. Perhaps he is going to help out in the soup kitchen or read to a shut in or bring a cup of water to someone in need...







To bring a person to church does not

[Martha H. McGinnis]

Four years ago I made friends with a couple with two young girls and took them to church. They come from Taiwan two years early ...They were so eager to learn about Jesus.For two years, I rode with them to church and had lunch with them talking about the sermon to help them understand..the pastor discipled them..they accepted Jesus.. They are growing in their walk at a church near their home.. Sometimes in that time it was not always easy...But I knew this was what God wanted...Jesus calls us to do whatever it takes to get people to accept Him as Lord and Savior..