Are you part of the fellowship?

By Gary Andrews

gary@gadevotionals.com

 

            Many years ago, when I was in the Air Force and stationed in California, I had the privilege of visiting my cousin that lived in a near by city. I would at times spend the weekend with them and go to church with them. 

            It was a congregation of close-knit people that loved and took care of each other. The congregation was a good mixture of young and older generations. I was impressed by one older gentleman that came to every service. He was a widower and had little or no family that was close by. His church family loved him and took care of his needs.

            Being up in age his wish was to be in the church pew when the Lord called him home. I am not sure why he wanted to be in church when he died and my cousin had never questioned him for his reasoning.

            I can only assume what his reasoning was. He, as many of our elderly members of today, find solace in the spiritual connection and support from their fellow church members. Through this they can strengthen their faith as they enter this stage of their life.

            Not only will their faith be strengthened but they will be an influence on the younger members also. Their wisdom is imperative and is one of the most valuable assets a church can have. Proverbs 16:21 tells us, “The wise are known for their understanding, and pleasant words are persuasive.” LASB

            Being a part of the church fellowship allows the older generation emotional support and offers them an opportunity to engage in spiritual activities that can help them feel more at peace with their mortality. They also have opportunities to contr 

            Being in the military when I first knew about the older gentleman that attended church with my cousin, I was transferred overseas before this man passed away. I was told though, by my cousin, he didn’t pass away in church but another location. His wish, even though admiral, didn’t happen because the Lord had other plans. He did know where he was going to spend eternity, and his life was an inspiration to those around him.

            How about you? Do you know where you will spend eternity? Have you accepted Christ as your Lord and Savior? If not, I appeal to you that you go to your knees, confess your sins, and ask Jesus to come into your heart. It will be best decision you ever made!

            Prayer: Thank you, Lord Jesus, for another day of life. I pray that what I do today will pleasing to you and a witness for your salvation. Amen.

            (Suggested daily Bible readings: Sunday – 1 John 5:11-15; Monday – Isaiah 41:10; Tuesday – 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18; Wednesday – Psalm 23:4; Thursday – 2 Corinthians 1:3-4; Friday – Jeremiah 29:11-13; Saturday – Hebrews 10:19-25.) A664-25