First Christian Church of Independence

“We saw your sign, and wanted to come,” said the young mother on Christmas Eve, as she pulled off her gloves and straightened the clothes of one of her three young boys. She said she lives nearby, and was so glad that First Christian hadn’t cancelled services. The boys (all of whom have names from the Bible) were among those kids to help Liz Evans place the Baby Jesus in the manger, and talk about that holy night. If we’re ever in search of a good reason not to cancel our planned services, we might bring to mind those little boys.

It is that time of year again when winter has us in its icy grip. Streets are dangerous. Temperatures are treacherous. There will be many times when we will be wise to stay inside and be safe. No church activity is more important than the physical well-being of our members. So, over the next couple months, there will be those times when meetings, practices, and study and fellowship groups will be cancelled because of the weather.

But so far, we have not cancelled our Sunday morning worship services. As long as someone with a key can make it here safely, it’s our intention to open our doors every Sunday morning, so that those who can make it here safely can worship God in a community of faith. Our ranks might be thin, but on those low-attendance Sundays, the sanctuary holds a certain warmth and intimacy. The mood is light-hearted and casual. The service order is subject to some adjustment. We hear special joys and concerns that might otherwise be kept private if there were more folks around.

So, we will do our best to keep our regular worship schedule, and trust our membership to use its own good judgment in deciding whether to come. To anyone who has doubts about getting out of their home, driving to church, or getting from a parking area to the church doors: Please stay safe at home! Please keep in touch with one another about these types of safety issues. Let’s look out for one another!

If you stay at home, here are some suggestions for making your day worshipful:

• Light small votive candles. (Make sure they are in protective holders.)
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  Pray the Lord’s Prayer, and think deeply about each phrase.
• Read that Sunday’s scripture (or another scripture), and lift it to God in prayer, keeping your heart open for God’s special word to you.
• Call another church member and talk to him or her about your walk with Christ.
• Sing your favorite hymns.
• Find seven things for which to give gratitude to God.
• Put off all chores that don’t need immediate attention. Give the day to God!

Most of all be thankful that God gave you a heart that desires to worship, and a mind that knows when it’s best to stay home!