What time does church start? To me the answer to that question isn't as easy as listing the time that's listed on a schedule. Peak in through a few windows to see my heart on this.
Window one: A church service isn't a business where at a set time the doors open and transactions can be made, nor is it a concert where at the right time the "show" starts. A worship service is a like a meal where people gather - it starts when everything is ready and ends when people are full.
Window two: The time before the meal is not best spent sitting at the table waiting for it to be delivered, it's best spent in community with the saints. Every week the body gathers as a chance to let the Spirit build unity as fellowship happens. But, we often miss it by sitting and waiting for the "program" to begin. Look for someone to meet or someone to hug or someone to pray with/for while the meal is getting ready.
Window three: Coming late to church is missing what might be the best way to prepare for what God has for you in the meal. To hurry from the car seat to table seat without connecting and enjoying the appetizer of relationship is just as sad as being early and sitting in your spot waiting for dinner, ignoring the appetizer.
Window four: The clock is just as important at the beginning as it is at the end. Just like the work of the Spirit is crucial as the meal ends, it is crucial at the beginning. Sometimes we forget how important the prep time is and how God uses relationship to prepare us.
Come to the meal a little early. Gather in the living room (a.k.a. sanctuary). Greet someone. Let story be part of what God is able to use to make you ready of the power of what he longs to do during the morning meal. Don't miss the joy of how God could use you before the first song starts.
What time does church start? The moment you walk in the door and make eye contact with someone.
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