Experiences

"Since you really want spiritual experiences, look intentionally for over-the-top ways to build up the congregation," 1 Corinthians 14:12.

Been way up on the mountain? Breathtaking view? Close to God? Yes! Or how about a once-in-a-decade, God-inspiring concert? Or alone with ear buds or headphones singing praise out loud, unabashedly? Close to God? Yes! Of course! These, and the like, remain special personal times feeling God's presence; peace, wonder, joy fills the soul. But we do not confuse such precious moments with God's intentional spiritual experiences for us. To be in church. (O, brother! not that again! Yeah, and, O, sister!) No, not to be in church. To build up the body of Christ into Jesus' wholeness. Really messy job. Ya gotta get dirty to get rich. Rich, so rich, in spiritual experiences.

We grow Jesus' congregation today by contacting a brother or sister. We speak mutual words of courage in tough seasons. We point each other to Christ. And, together, we give thanks for God's kindness for real spiritual experience.