Why?

Attending church has gotten a rather bad rap especially in North America although other parts of the world are giving us a run for our money. We rarely view gathering regularly as a privilege and an event to desire and long for. The North American church seems preoccupied with structures and entertainment, and those attending with “what I get from attending”.

So it is a bit surprising to see five church structures in close vicinity to where John the Baptist baptized Jesus in Jordan. There are certainly no communities close to the area. An sign at the site explains that these churches were built simply to commemorate, to cause pilgrims to the site to remember the momentous event that occurred there over 2,000 years ago.

They are not simply memorials or historical markers, however. They are places of worship and reverence. Places to rejoice and praise God the Father. Which is the basis of worship.

We gather together not primarily for us but rather to share our joy and glorification of the Triune God with other believers. It doesn’t matter how fancy the building or how many attend or whether there is a worship band with smoke and lights or not.

What matters is our hearts remembering and rejoicing with others. In community marked by the Presence of God. A humble participation and a shared joy. Appreciating our ability to gather and not be persecuted.

As we enter this new year, let us remember and rejoice in what is eternal.