The Church is Alive and Well

The Church is Alive and Well

November 24, 2024 0 By Donna Wuerch Noble

The Church — what a beautiful, hope-filled, life-giving place! It’s more than four walls and a steeple; it’s a living, breathing Body where we find hope, peace, faith, and fellowshi

But let’s be honest: some of us got a little too comfortable in our jammies, sipping coffee while tuning into online services during Covid. I get it — rolling out of bed and logging in from the couch was a perk, but friend, that’s no substitute for the real thing.

I love our church! Beautiful, big-smiling people stand at the various doors and, “Good Morning, so good to see you this morning!” I guarantee warm hugs. And, oh, those adorable kiddos who excitedly run to get to their classes where they meet up with their buddies.

And if hanging together in church weren’t enough — we often go to lunch with our friends after Sunday church. We have church in common and these people share God’s love with us!

I wish you had been a part of our Thanksgiving Dinner, Children’s Program, people expressing gratitude at the open mic, and Pastor’s Thanksgiving message last Wednesday night. Over 500 people attended this beautiful time of thanksgiving.

There’s something irreplaceable about gathering with God’s people. When we come together, we share a bond rooted in what matters most: our faith and our love for Jesus. It’s in these moments — singing and worshipping together, praying for one another, and simply being present — that we’re reminded we’re not walking this journey alone.

Church is where we’re encouraged to live out our faith boldly. It’s where we’re inspired to go beyond hearing the Word to doing the Word. And let’s be real: sometimes we need the accountability of that friend who notices when we’re missing from the chair or pew.

Yes, God lives in us, and we are the Church wherever we go — but there’s a special power when we’re united in person. It’s like a family reunion every week (minus the potato salad and long-lost cousins).

If you’re still hesitant about getting out of your jammies and stepping back into the building, consider this your gentle nudge. There’s a seat with your name on it, waiting for you to experience the joy of being surrounded by like-minded believers. It’s time to put away the slippers and reconnect with the Body of Christ.

Because let’s face it—the Church triumphant is not just alive and well; it’s thriving. And you, dear friends, are an essential part of it.