I've gone to church as long as I can remember and I've come to hate it. I've seen it do far more damage than good. Sure, like politics or a Cubs game there are glimpses of hope, little bright spots or successful moments here and there. But for the most part, people going to church has been the worst thing for Christianity.
Before I go any further, I should probably clarify that my family (still) regularly attends a weekly worship service with other believers. It's really the phrase "going to church" that I have a problem with.
The main reason is that it limits who we are to a small place at a limited time. You've probably heard it said that "we don't go to church, we are the church." And that's true.
It's like saying "I'm going to be a son/daughter" when we make plans to eat with our parents. Or like saying "I'm going to be an employee" when we begin our work day. We're always a son or daughter regardless of our current location or circumstances. I'm still an employee even when I'm at home. Likewise, we're "the church" on Sunday mornings, and Wednesday nights, and Monday afternoons and Friday night. We're the church at the beach, in our cubicles and at the restaurant.
Instead of asking other believers "where do you go to church?" I'd rather us ask each other who did you serve or mentor, what person or ministry do you support, or how have you loved your neighbors this week? Before you invite someone to your church, invite them over for dinner. Serve them. Offer to mow their grass or watch their kids. Offer to stay late and help them finish a project. There are a few examples of how they might join "your church."
I go to the store. I go to my office. I go to the park. It's impossible for me to go to church.
That being said, I'll see you Sunday morning at 10am...or maybe Thursday in the break room, you know, at church?
