On the way back from picking up some groceries, I heard a song with the words “I need a lil church right now*.” It was wonderful to hear this expression for a need to go to church, but frankly, I think we need a “whole lotta church,” because this world is spinning and not in a good direction. This past week we’ve seen reports about war and other senseless violence; earthquakes; floods; fires; and a bug that is devastating crops in 20 counties in Florida. We need to be on our knees, seeking repentance and forgiveness and asking God to restore our land. We don’t need a visitation with God, we need to reside in the presence of our living God.
I have liked Toby Mac’s songs for many years in listening to this song, I knew there would be some deeper lyrics in this musical message. Here’s one verse:
*For years, I’ve run the fast lane, And my treads are wearin thin,
Left me on the shoulder, broken and pulled over, Alone in my skin
Perhaps you can relate to this song. At one point or another, we’ve all been in the fast lane, trusting in our own direction in making decisions. How has that worked for us? That’s why we need a whole lotta church; a prayer life with and for our brothers and sisters; a relationship that features a daily walk with Jesus Christ. Church may last only an hour once a week, but it’s a start and an important element in our spiritual walk as we come together in community. And Jesus knew we needed church; that’s why He told Peter that he was His rock (Matthew 16:18); and upon Peter, Christ would build His church. And one more important thing; the gates of hades would not prevail against the church. This means that the church will be here long after we are not.
Speaking of Peter, there’s good evidence as to why Jesus chose Peter. In Acts 2:14, Peter, standing with the other 11 disciples, addressed a crowd and shared the message of the gospel with them. In verse 41 of that chapter we read that 3,000 people accepted and were baptized that day. You read correctly, three thousand people. That’s why we read that the Word of God does not return void (Isaiah 55:11) – and it “will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
As you read this, I respectfully ask that you think about how much time you actually spend cultivating your relationship with God. Please pray that I would set aside time every day to walk with God and I will pray the same for you. And that through this special time with our creator, new doors would open in our relationship with Our Father. James 4:8 reminds us of what will happen when we do spend time with God; Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.
God bless you and keep you my friends. We need a whole, lotta church!
We Need a Whole Lotta
