COVID was detrimental in many ways and continues to impact people. Many have NOT come out of that dark hole they were forced into. One way that it negatively impacted people is isolation. Churches, communities, and gatherings were shut down. Elderly were dying alone, young women were having babies alone, and people were shut away from the world. In fact, I’ve read that churches today – 6 years after COVID began – have struggled to reach the numbers they once had. Why is that? Well, a lot of reasons… but here are two specific reasons: 1) COVID caused GREAT fear in people and they are still afraid to be around others, and 2) they became comfortable watching church online.
I think many people have the mindset… Oh, it’s so nice that I don’t have to get dressed up on Sundays. I can just watch the service from the comfort of my home. Well, according to our verse in Hebrews, this is not God’s intention. At one time, we had no choice. But we have a choice now. God created the church for His people. It is so important that we meet together with other believers.
I’m wondering if this problem existed in the first century church as well and that’s why the writer of Hebrews mentioned it in his letter. There are two specific things that jump out from this verse.
- We are not to neglect meeting together! This isn’t just a piece of advice. It’s a mandate. Obviously, there are many ways we can meet together… in churches, homes, communities, small groups, women’s groups, and even online groups (like this one). I will say, though, that I hope you have a local group you belong to as well as this group. Although our TRIBE is wonderful, isn’t it? I will also say that I believe in the corporate worship of church. Let me encourage you that if you can get out, then you should make going to church a priority. There’s something about worshiping in a corporate setting… nothing compares to it.
- Gathering together is for encouragement! Being together with other believers, we are encouraged and we have the opportunity to encourage others. I wonder how many people just need encouragement. Let me say this too… it was never God’s intent that we just show up on Sundays. We are to serve in our local place of worship. Anything you can give will be such an encouragement to others. My ministry keeps me really busy, but I do greet on Sundays. I love welcoming people into church. I love that when they walk in that door, they are greeted by a smiling face and kind words.
Again, let me encourage you to not neglect meeting together.