What is missing?

Two weeks ago while at our home church, I sadly realized that there are several people and a couple of families that weren't there. I was told that they don't come anymore.

I shake my head. I made some phone calls to these people. I got no response.

What happens to make people who seem strong and faithful fall away and stay away? I wish I had the answer. I will keep trying. 

But let me ask you this, If a person or family comes to church after missing for many weeks, maybe months, how do you respond? Do you make sure to speak with them? Do you question them as to where they have been? 

I want you to remember the actions of the Father of the prodigal. The son was not immediately scolded and questioned. He probably would have left again if he would have been treated like that.

I hope that we are holding onto our faith. I hope the scriptural words below could be said of each of us.

'I know your deeds, and your love and faith and service and perseverance, and that your deeds of late are greater than at first. (Revelation 2:19 NASB)

Are your deeds more than they used to be?

Is your love for others stronger than it used to be?

Is your faith stretching and growing all the time?

Are you serving in the church and community more than you ever have?

Is your "stick to it ness" perseverance good?

I believe that too often we cannot answer yes to all these questions. We sometimes like to live the "good enough" life. Or maybe we think someone else can do it.

God hates a lukewarm Christian! Be aware. He will spit you out!

Let's work hard. Let's not compare our works and faith with someone else. If we all work with enthusiasm for God, if we all get excited for Christ, maybe we can encourage others to get excited too.

Call someone today that you haven't seen in the church building lately. If they don't answer, don't cross it off your list. Keep calling until they do answer. They need to know you are thinking about them.