Christianity is a Team Sport

"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."
Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV)

What if your weekend plans were the key indicator of the strength of your faith? 

I read a story about a pastor who called in sick on Sunday morning so he could play golf. Standing on a long par 4, he hit the ball like never before. It soared through the air and dropped right into the cup for a hole-in-one. The Apostle Peter looked down from heaven and said, "Lord, are you going to let him get away with this?" The Lord smiled and said, "Who's he going to tell?"

That's funny until you look at what's actually happening. If you were born after 1984, there's less than a 10% chance you're in church each week. If you have no desire to be with believers one day a week, why would you think you'd enjoy being with believers in eternity?

Christianity is a team sport, and unchurched Christianity is not encouraged in the New Testament. When you come to Christ, He expects you to participate in the church. Once you decide to follow Jesus, you make three decisions. You follow Him, you lead others to follow Him, and you help other followers become better followers.

This Sunday, decide that attendance is non-negotiable. Block it on your calendar like you would an important work meeting. Text one person who might need encouragement and save them a seat this Sunday. Watch what happens when you commit to showing up in church consistently.

You can't encourage anyone in church if you're not there. You can't be part of the family if you're never with the family.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for the church, which is Your idea! Forgive me for the Sundays I've chosen everything else over You and Your people. Show me who needs encouragement this week, and give me the courage to invite them. Make me faithful to show up, not because I have to, but because I want to be where Your family gathers. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.