Hebrews 10, 25 New Living Translation Pininterest

How to Kill a Church!

By Helen Jesze, 1^st November 2019

I read the following challenging poem in an old Christian magazine, and am sharing it with you, as it is as applicable today as it was then! It was written or submitted by Rev. Mike Shephard, from a Baptist church in Wales.

I almost went to church last night, but couldn’t find the time,
So much to do about the house, to leave it would be a crime!
So I brushed and sewed and polished and went wearily to bed,
But I made the resolution to go next week instead.

I almost went to church last night but then an old friend came,
And to have closed the door on him would have been a shame.
So we talked and chatted and gossiped until the Goodbyes were said,
But I made a resolution to go next week instead.

I almost went to church last night but something made me late,
And unpunctuality is a sin I really hate!
So I didn’t go and stayed at home, and to my conscience said,
I’ll make a resolution and go next week instead.

I almost went to church last night but the air was chill and cold.
To venture out on such a night would be foolish I’d been told.
So I sat down by the fire, took up a book and read,
But I made a resolution to go next week instead.

I almost went to church last night but a certain preacher was there,
And for that type of preaching I really didn’t care.
So rather than go to church and come home with a heavy head,
I made a resolution to go next week instead.

I actually went to church last night but I had gone too late!
The church was locked and silent, “For Sale” was on the gate!
Oh, the remorse that then I felt, for that great cause was dead,
And I was the one who killed it by going next week instead!

Prayer:
Heavenly Father, Forgive us for the times we have neglected to go to your House, giving any number of excuses! In these ‘Last Days’ when sin and moral decay are increasing on every side, help us to see the need to be planted in your House, under a spiritual covering, hearing your Word, praising and worshipping you, being part of a strong fellowship. In many countries it is dangerous to gather together to worship you, yet thousands are doing it despite the personal cost. We make the decision today to seek your face, and join with your Church-Body worldwide in building up, and not “killing” your local Church. Thank you for this enormous privilege, Father!
In Jesus’ Name we pray, Amen!