We've tried four different groups, two more extensively. We have decided on the church we went to first. I was going to write "we have settled on..." but I want to write about this process in a more positive light! Going back to church has not been high on my priority list. I've been rather disappointed by the last two communities I've gone to. One of those churches I attended for three and a half years. That length of time and other factors made my disappointment quite profound.
Nevertheless, intellectually I have always been convinced of the need and potential blessing of community life. But my emotional response has been clouded by the hurt and subsequent disillusionment which occurred within the confines of this structure. People are people, which includes the possibility of hurt. The blessing and disappointment comes from the same source.
I love God and that has never changed. I also realize the church will never change. The potential for good and bad will always be there.
Today I shall…
…try to remember to be considerate of anyone who has any time been of help to me, even though his later actions might have been hostile.
-Rabbi Abraham J. Twerski
“Growing Each Day, Adar 10" Aish.com
“Growing Each Day, Adar 10" Aish.com
"Then I encountered Rabbi Twerski’s commentary for yesterday and it occurred to me that many of us have been 'throwing stones in the well from which we drank.'"
(The above quote and comment came from a blog I read - Morning Meditations. This particular post is "Throwing Stones.")I had to realize I'd been throwing stones as well. A lot of good in me came out of attending the church or churches I once did. This is what I need to focus on regarding the past and the future. It's still a struggle as I head off to church each week but it's easier than it once was. Plus, as mentioned, I am convinced of the need for community life for everyone, including me! We need people in our lives because we are made for relationship. I know that life is not full when I delve into my isolationist tendencies. I choose to move forward rather than retreat.
Logging you in...
jamesmpyles 43p · 630 weeks ago
Beyond that, I can attest that it's possible to successfully "return to church." In my case, I was rather doubtful, but a number of factors added motivation (pressure), including my conscience (which I interpret as the influence of the Holy Spirit), two friends, one local and one remote, and my Mother (she's 80, but I still try to listen to her).
I was also dreading going church shopping, especially since I don't know the first thing about it. Fortunately, a highly unlikely set of circumstances occurred (i.e. God) that led me to the right church (for me) the very first time. I've been attending for about four months now and have created a beginning niche for myself (or God created it for me).
I wish I could say that God will also provide you such a seamless (though it didn't seem seamless when I first started going) experience in finding a church, but only He has control of that. I hope you and Brian are guided by God's providence to finding the community where He desires you to live and thrive.
Peace.
CoffeeCarol 37p · 630 weeks ago
Thanks for writing! Glad you also are OK with me including parts of your blog in my post. :) I remember the last time I commented on your site you asked for updates on my journey. So this gives you some idea at the moment. The church would be all about me serving in some capacity but I'm not there yet. Nor do I want to serve just to "be involved." I attend a weekend service and try to be positive while listening. We also go to a small group which I enjoy much more. God is working on me!
Brian and I have both read Tent of David. He's excited about the concept and is in it for the long haul. I'm all for it in my head but my heart is still trailing. It is a process.
laurabennet 22p · 630 weeks ago
CoffeeCarol 37p · 630 weeks ago