Dear Local Church

Dear local church, you are a blessing.

Every Sunday morning, I stand in your midst and hear your voices raised to praise the King. I hear His truths preached from the pulpit. I see smiles and tears, I see rejoicing and mourning.

I see you, local church.

I see you young families and your little ones running around bring joy to my heart.

I see you young couples with that glow of newlywed bliss in your eyes and you bring rejoicing to my soul.

I see you single men and women, and your joy, dedication, and contentment inspire me.

I see you widows and widowers, and your faith strengthens my own.

I see you older parents and hearing of your grown children and your faithfulness brings refreshment to my weary heart.

I see you older couples who do not have your own biological children but have many spiritual children that you have poured into year after year.

I see you college students and your presence brings me delight.

I see you teenagers and your enthusiasm is a gift to us all.

I see you wonder-filled children and you bring light in the darkness.

I see you, local church, and in you I see Him.

Dear local church, you are a blessing.

On weekdays, I see you local church. In your gathering to study and pray, in your simple texts to encourage a brother or sister, in your dinner parties and coffee dates.

In times of joy, I see you local church. In the way you send gifts, gather to celebrate, sing songs, and rejoice over the goodness of God in each other’s lives.

In times of sorrow, I see you local church. In the way you hold those who weep, pray for each other as you sit in the ashes, link arms and care for those who cannot care for themselves, and hold fast to the promise that He is with us and He is enough.

I see you, local church, and in you I see Him.

Dear local church, you are a blessing.

You are not perfect, but the One who is perfect works in and through you. You are a good gift from the Giver of all. You are a light in the darkness and a stream of water to my weary heart.

Dear local church, I see you, and in you I see Him.

Dear local church, you are a blessing.