Membership

So I just got home from the Easter service at Mission Community Church, and I am just so full of joy! I half-way rode my bike to church today and the weather was just perfect. But that is beside the point. I have held this bitterness toward church ever since a bad experience when I was young. I've been going to Mission for about 6 years now and I can honestly say that I've never truly felt a part of it, until today.

You see, at church I've always been a part of the student ministry, first in High School and now at Ember (college). In some twisted way, I think I saw my ministry as my church, not realizing that it was a part of some bigger entity, much bigger. So, I would go on Sundays and not feel a part of the big church as a whole.

Funny thing that happened this morning, I was worship in and asking God to pour into Mission and lead us as a whole church according to his will. And it hit me, that was the first time (that I can recall) that I referred to Mission Community Church as "us"...implying that I was included. Before, it was always "them" or just with a sense that I wasn't included. But, I am included and I'm so in love with our mission as a church to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God. See, even that statement brought bitterness to my heart at one point.

But today, Christ frees me from that bitterness. I will no longer let Satan harden my heart toward the church, the bride of Christ whom he loves. Rather, I will embrace the church body that Christ has blessed me with, and I will seek to dive deeper into the people at Mission. My first step? I signed up for the Core class. And after that, I plan to become an official member. I never understood the point of church membership until now. It's a commitment to serve and actively engage in a church. And that's what God is calling me to.

Now, where will this lead? Who knows! It could be serving in Junior High or High school ministry. It could be kids, it could be welcoming on Sundays. God will lead me there. Man, I'm just so excited!