Why the Church is Still Good (pt 2)

I've talked about Monday mornings before.  They're not my favorite.  But today as I rolled down to the church to begin the cycle of another big week in ministry, it came apparent to me the existence of the church even combats the Monday morning blues!

It's easy for any of us, whether our vocation is religious or otherwise, or whether we're headed to school or an intense work setting, to look at our mountainous Mondays and feel overwhelmed by the weight of so much to do or so many big things to try and resolve, tackle, or overcome.  After all, we're just humans; we can only do so much.  Yet what is often demanded of us seems to be so much more than we can handle.

Without the church (as being the true presence of the body of Christ in the world), that's where our stories stay whether it's Monday or not:  the world is more complicated than we are wise, the weight of our problems is heavier than we are strong, the pressure from others is higher than we are able to withstand, and the destitution is often darker than the light of our hope.  Only by the work of our own hands, the luck in our own circumstances, or the pity of bystanders do we make it through or by chance get through on top.  Otherwise, we might just accept that this is the way life is for now, with no real way of knowing exactly when for now will finally turn into now it's different.

But with the church, our stresses, pressures, and feelings of depression don't have to reach as deeply or linger nearly as long.  With Jesus' presence firmly established in the world today through the hands, hearts, feet, and prayers of believers, hopers, and doers, we have been given the gift of a different outlook.


Jesus reminds us when we are weary to take His yoke, because His burden is light.  He reminds us what is impossible with man is possible with God.  Time and time again, the sick or concerned are reminded it is by their faith they were made well, not by their skills, determination, or hard work.  This means to me and to all of us that no matter the weight, pressures, or mountains, we don't have to work hard enough, rely on luck, or pressure others into sympathy.  In Christ we can do all things; or in other words, it's Jesus who accomplishes the work we need to do, who resolves the worries we have, who combats the pressures we face.  We are NOT alone, and we are not left without a great hope that rests in the one who can overcome anything for the glory of God.


Furthermore, because the body of Christ is evident in a group of people, we are reminded we rely on the work of many hands, the presence of mercy and grace in all circumstances, and the support of others who walk with us.

This is the church Jesus intended to see present in today's world.  A church that binds together, that holds us firmly to it, and that as one has the power to combat the weight and pressures.  And this is why the church is still good!

More to come!

Jason <><