Many churches, not all, have lost their role, and become a closed society. Many are too large and corporate to connect their members. Some is personal failings in the leaders. Some is organizational - a member who was regular for over a year suddenly disappears, and the next communication they get is months later asking for a tithe commitment. Services becoming so accepting that there is no respect for the real message. No need to dress up, it's just a holy sanctuary - those shorts and sandals you wash the car in are fine, but you'd never even wear them to walmart. No need for reverence there, drinks, snacks and side conversations are regularly ongoing, even by ushers. New members seeking to engage take minor roles hoping to connect and get a chance to grow get pigeon holed and left to their role until they silently fade away. No more hymns - don't connect to the young they say, and instead repetitive praise songs without doctrinal review sell a happy Jesus, who is only one face of our loving savior. The expectations on staff become that of constant action and entertainment, not a meaningful reflection and self examination. That might not feel good.
And I know staff who see this, and try desperately to lead beyond as Christ deserves who aren't supported by those they seek to minister to. Another sign of our too soft society, and social Christianity.
And on days when I wax philiosphical, I thank God for those who I know try and lead the sheep. And those sheep who, despite the worldly influences, seek that leadership and to know and feel the face of God through a personal relationship with Christ.
Happy birthday Jesus, and thank you for saving me and being my friend.
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