Written in 1928, John A. Shedd is credited for the saying, “A ship in the harbor is safe, but that’s not what ships are for.” I’ve thought about this many times. Steve and I love to cruise, and while it’s fun to “get on the boat and explore,” it’s not until “land is no longer in sight,” do we really feel like – “We’re on a cruise!” Sitting at the port gets old fast because that’s not what cruise ships are for! No one would pay hundreds of dollars to get on a boat and sit in the port for seven days.
Sometimes, we as Christians get a little “too settled” in the church. We are faithful in attendance, and we bring food to every potluck, but just sitting in the church building is not what the church is for. In the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20, Jesus said, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you, and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world.” The Greek form of the word “go”, actually means “as you are going.” Acts 5:42 says, “And daily in the temple, and in every house, they ceased not to teach and preach Jesus Christ.” Folks, are you teaching as you go about your daily life? How many people will be in heaven because you left the “harbor” and taught as you went out into the world?
In the foyer at our congregation, there is a sign which says, “Enter to Worship: Depart to Serve.” Living the Christian life is so much more than just showing up for services three times a week. It’s sailing through stormy weather and sunshine. It’s reaching out to help our fellowman. It’s time spent in study, meditation, and prayer. It’s getting up the courage to approach those with whom we come in contact, and sharing the “glorious news.” “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10)
Do you have your sails up? God Bless, Courtney