There is a vacancy in the Church, and it is very disturbing. Our churches have operated on nothing, for so long, we think what we see as normal isn’t even close. We should compare ourselves to the young and zealous Church in the early chapters of the Book of Acts. And when we do, we see our emptiness.
There is something though. We can shun defeat in this matter. The Holy Spirit often enters into our world, through “objectionable” and foolish ways. What we do with people who do not mesh exactly with our theology can really determine our personal relevancy.
Our churches should be places where we directly (and specifically) encounter the Lord God. Our elders, and our ushers, should be handing out life-preservers, and flares. Rafts, of course, should be readily available. For who can know what will happen when we make “first contact” with the Living God, all provision for survival should be made. Agape love can completely undo us.
When “Hurricane God” rips into us full blast, we will have to decide whether to take Him in His tumultuous power, or shed what we know for what we will be content with. We will often tolerate very little, to see that our life isn’t turned upside down. Perhaps we reason, or think that this is the most terrible thing that could happen to us.
But His special grace just can’t be factored out, or eliminated. He slams us with divine love. Something akin to a deep agape love now being poured on us, and we are fully saturated in it all. In this place, we can so easily ignite. We are now on fire, when the Father touches us.
I think, when all is said and done, we will again be like that little church in Acts, only we are all spread all over the world this time. We’re the new version of the body of Christ, and consist of those who passionately, faithfully, do the will of the father, who believe, who are spreading the message of Jesus Christ. We’re not lukewarm, or politically correct, and we’re walking that narrow road described in the bible. I also think we’ll recognize one another as we meet up along the narrow road we joyfully trudge. Without a doubt…
When I say “joyfully,” I mean we’re joyful most of the time, not every minute of every day
I think the true church of today is where two or more are gathered in His name..
(just some ramblings I felt like sharing related to what you wrote)
Rant away, and these were not to far from the truth. I found myself cheering you on, lol.