[This reflection was published in the weekly news bulletin of Horley Baptist Church, 11/Oct/2020]
Better is one day in your courts than a thousand elsewhere; I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of the wicked. [Psalm 84:10]
Do you miss being in church? Can you recall the formality and informality of the services, the collective raising of voices in praise, the opportunity for undistracted prayer, the encouragement of meeting with like-minded believers? It can be difficult to pray on one’s own and certainly for some people singing is best confined to the bathroom.
The New Testament mentions many times ‘the church that meets in your/his/her house’. For us, house groups might be a relatively recent idea but the early Christians relied on being able to meet in people’s houses. We know something about several of these hosts from details in the Biblical account but others have their name preserved solely as a result of their hospitality. Even now, there are still places where having a dedicated church building is not an option.
Whether it be a soaring cathedral built to the glory of God or a simple place of quiet retreat, it is undeniable that a church building itself adds to the spirit of worship in a way that even the most organised of domestic premises cannot. As we appreciate the facilities that the building itself offers we need to remember that it is a tool to be used in God’s service and to His glory.
Do you recognise the external significance of the building itself? As neighbours see a vibrant congregation they become aware that being a Christian is not some old-fashioned minority interest. It is a visible reminder to the local community that there is a God and that this is where they can make the first steps to meeting Him for themselves.
As we wait to meet again, can you echo William Bullock’s words?
We love the place, O God, wherein thine honour dwells;
the joy of thine abode all earthly joy excels.
We love the house of prayer, wherein thy servants meet;
and thou, O Lord, art there thy chosen flock to greet.
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Contributed by Steve Humphreys; © the Author
