Make the effort to assemble

“not forsaking our own assembling together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.“ - Hebrews 10:25 NASB

As I pulled into the parking lot of the Dixon Assembly of God Church where our Saturday morning group run was going to start this past weekend, I smiled at the number of vehicles that were already parked there and the runners that were standing around talking to one another. This wasn’t our usual starting place so it was nice to know that my running friends treasured our time together as much as I did; so much so that most of them had driven 30-45 minutes to personally gather rather than logging their miles solo closer to home. You could most definitely say then that they, like me, believed that the benefits of meeting together in person far outweighed the inconvenience it involved; and I think I could speak for the whole group in saying that each one of us was greatly encouraged and refreshed by our time together. 

And you know, in the same way that runners benefit by being part of a group—where they receive encouragement, instruction, support and friendship—Christians do too. Which is the very reason that Paul urged us not to forsake meeting or assembling with fellow believers. You see, Paul understood that the chances of an individual staying faithful, avoiding sin, and living up to their potential (all God created them to be) were exponentially better when they were part of a support group a.k.a. a body of believers. There’s just something about being around a group of like-minded individuals that strengthens each individual member spiritually, physically and emotionally. 

So in a world where it’s becoming increasingly more convenient to do ‘church’ alone from the comfort of our own homes (via the internet), let us make every effort to not forsake meeting with our brothers and sisters in person. You and I will not only be better for it but the Church as a whole will be better for it; especially now as we realize how much we need each other "all the more" as we "see the day drawing near."

Heavenly Father, thank You for reminding us that assembling together is crucial for the health of the Church and the advancement of the Gospel. The apostles clearly understood this and so made every effort to meet regularly despite the dangers of doing so. Help us to be equally bold and courageous in not letting anything stop us from meeting that the world might take notice and be inspired to follow You. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!!!

TOGETHER