“So don’t worry about these things, saying, ‘What will we eat? What will we drink? What will we wear?’ These things dominate the thoughts of unbelievers, but your heavenly Father already knows all your needs. Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need. “So don’t worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring its own worries. Today’s trouble is enough for today. (Matthew 6:31-34 NLT)
It’s September 12. 20 years ago, we were reeling from the catastrophe of 9/11: Shocked, numb, uncertain of the future. One of the phenomena in the aftermath of that event was a huge uptick in church attendance. People were looking for answers. They were looking for comfort. They were looking for hope. Unfortunately, the numbers soon receded to less than they were before the towers came down. Why? I don’t know, but I have some ideas. Some people were just looking for fire insurance and found out that being a Christian might require actual change. Others came in sincerity, looking for meat and found only gruel. It was sad to me.
In my estimation, we are immersed in a season that dwarfs 9/11 in its significance and scope. Our nation is beset by genuine existential threats: communism, uncontrolled immigration, moral decay, economic chaos, etc. All this is amplified by a global pandemic that has killed millions, and a politicized medical response. With the clown show we saw in Afghanistan, it seems that our governing class is rotten at its core. Our common understanding of who we are and why we exist is gone, or at least marginalized. In this environment, the Church will get another chance. People are scared. They want answers. They need purpose. They want a place to be. They need to know why this is happening and what hope there is for the future. They need to see a difference!
As we head for our 9/12 gatherings, let’s start the renewal process by getting our own houses in order. First things first. 2 things on our 2 do list that will make us obviously different from the world:
- Seek the Kingdom: What can I do today to positively impact the Kingdom of God? Be kind to my fellow believers, live by Kingdom principles, put God first in every decision, and don’t fret!
- Seek His righteousness: What adjustments must I make so that my life is pleasing to my God? Step out of the judgment seat by remembering Who saved me and Whom I trust with my life today and for eternity. Live like Jesus is alive.
Without these things, the world turns to the Church and finds people who are just as scared, and lost, and mean as they are. God, help us, this is our chance, don’t let us miss it!
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