The Church

I'm writing because I found it all rushing to my heart a couple nights ago. Here is what spilled out.

I've been thinking about the common "American church" lately. It feels as though I've been away from church for a longer time than I actually have, and I want to know what the effects of something like this.

I have lots of questions.
What is the church?
What is the purpose of the church?
What is the purpose of going to church?
Is it possible to be more productive in bearing fruit while not involved with a church?
Therefore, is it necessary?

I say this because in my own experience, I've been away for awhile. However, I don't feel that it's been necessarily a "hinder" to my spiritual life since I've been gone, but perhaps even a positive thing.

I look at the “American church” and wonder if anyone there actually realizes what the world is like. Do they understand exactly how many people there are in the world who simply need love? Who need attention? Who have no one? Or are they stuck in their pretty little buildings and concentrating on the song line up for Sunday morning?

Can't we... shouldn't we, be doing more, as Christians, to help the world?

I think so. I think that there is so much more that we do since we live in a country filled with a variety of resources. There are so many materials at our fingertips.

And there are SO many people out there that need help. Just take the time to look around. Why don't we help them?

So much of my perspective on the world has changed while being in Europe. I find myself in midst of a very secular world. I realize that I've been pretty sheltered for the most of my life, especially in attending a Christian University, where it is so easy to take advantage of the near-instant fellowship that is available there. It's not like home around the world, though.

I feel I'm finally beginning to understand the heart for evangelism. I've realized how much of an impact one can have by simply living a life of love. Love for God and love for your neighbor. It all seems so simple. It's the commonality of us-- every person, every culture, every race: Mankind just wants to be loved.

Thinking about all of this, I am so inspired. I feel as though there are new passions kindled that I can see future ministry in. I hope, I long to get involved in a ministry soon-- one that is exactly where I'm meant to be, helping people.

I don't mean to sound like I have it all together-- I don't. And I don't mean to come off sounding like I'm never going to church again and that I think it's a waste of time. I know that it is not and I will go. I think that sometimes, one can get complacent and has to reconsider what they are doing and why.