See You At Church

It was an outstanding Christmas for my family. All six of my children (which includes one daughter-in-law and one fiancé) gathered at my house for several precious days. There were plenty of memorable moments full of gifts, games, good food, and the joy of being together.

A highlight was Christmas Eve here at Country Club Christian, a service we have attended almost every holiday season for the past 21 years. There was a new twist this time, however, because I was part of the Women’s Ensemble and sat in the choir loft instead of my family’s pew. All of my kids have sung in our children’s and youth choirs, but this was a first for me.

After the service, they commented on the music and how funny it seemed to see Mom up front in a choir robe. “And just think,” said one of my comedic offspring, “we didn’t even have to make her do it!”

Yes, there were plenty of times through the years that I “made” the kids take part in choir, but – mostly – they all enjoyed it. The issue wasn’t about being at church or singing. It was about rolling out of a warm bed early Sunday mornings and getting to church on time. Once they were here, all was well.

How often have you found yourself in similar situations? You are faced with getting yourself and the rest of your family up, fed, dressed, combed and in the car…maybe staying at home in your robe and slippers with the Sunday paper sounds better. Or perhaps you are new to the church and it seems like everyone knows each other except you.

Whatever the reasons, sometimes it just seems easier not to come. However, you will find spectacular opportunities at our church. Lenten study groups, service projects and special events fill the church calendar. Meaningful worship services and interesting Sunday School classes are planned every week. Each time you are here, you have a chance to build relationships with new people and reconnect with old friends.

I was shy growing up and frequently begged my mother to help me think of excuses to decline invitations, especially if they were from someone I didn’t know well. She gently, but firmly, pushed me into accepting. “You’ll have a good time once you are there,” she said. She was right, too. I always did. That’s my New Year’s wish and advice to each of you, as well. Mark your calendars, make plans and stick to them. You will be glad you made the effort to come here, whether it’s a Sunday morning or a Wednesday night. See you at church!

--Marilyn

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