Not Left Alone

         He came in alone.  He was a few minutes late - our singing had already begun.  But he was there.  He made the choice to be there even if he came by himself.  He sat right in front of me and I leaned up to pat him on the shoulder.  I wanted him to know I was glad he was there.  He needed to know that.  I needed to show him that. 

     I'm talking about one of our college aged guys.  He and his family are part of our church family, so he is not usually by himself.  Circumstances were such that he was that particular Sunday night.  For some reason, his family couldn’t come; but he did anyway.
      It says a lot about the character of someone who chooses to attend worship alone.  Over the years, several of our younger church members faithfully attended Bible class and worship alone.  They had no one at home to support their Christian endeavors; but still they loved the Lord enough to join the assembly of our congregation. 

Two young girls used to come together.  They attended worship and participated in youth activities.  They were both too young to drive, but somehow they managed to be there every time we met.  Many of us loved these girls and showed an interest in them.

Another Christian teenager attended with us.  She usually came with her grandmother; but when she got her driver’s license she drove on her own.  Well- that’s not completely true – at least not all the time.  She often brought visitors with her.  I always respected that.  This young lady knew she was part of our church family.

There are the young mothers who attend alone – perhaps her husband has no interest in coming to worship.  Perhaps he is on duty in the military.  Perhaps she is not married.  The reason she is alone does not matter.  What matters is that she is there – with her children in tow.  

Most people attend worship because they love God.  They want to serve and please Him.  It seems to me living the Christian life with no support at home would be difficult.  I would think it takes a strong, rock-steady faith to continue the Christian walk. 

How do we give our fellow Christians a sense of belonging?   We can open the hand of fellowship.  Speak to them.  I don’t mean just walk by and say ‘hi” either.  I mean actually have a conversation with them – a loving and caring conversation.  Maybe even sit with them.

Invite them to be a part of any extra activities taking place.  We should do whatever we can to let them know we have a genuine interest in them personally. 

God knew we would need each other.  In His infinite wisdom He knew some Christians would have no support from family or friends.  This is why Christ built the church.  His precious blood paid for it. 

The church is a group of believers who obey and follow Christ.  They study the Bible for themselves.  They do the best they can to honor all His commandments and they love one another as a family.  Everyone belongs.

 Those who walk in alone should never be left alone. 

“And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, as we do for you” – 1 Thessalonians 3:12

Christ above all things - Robin