September 11, 2022 . . .
For years, I hated even the thought of eating asparagus. I tried it once and thought it was terrible. As a matter of fact, I put asparagus into the same category I put turnip greens, broccoli, and brussels sprouts and that category is “food most likely to be scrapped into the trash can”. I still feel that way about turnip greens, broccoli, and brussels sprouts. However, a funny thing happened with asparagus and my taste buds. My next-door neighbor gave me a batch of asparagus (or is it asparagi…inquiring minds want to know) and not wanting her gift to go to waste, I turned to the information superhighway and Googled recipes for asparagus and a lot of them suggested that you should sauté asparagus with olive oil. When I saw the word sauté, I said to myself, “Self, you like sauteed green beans, onions, and squash, maybe you will like sauteed asparagus too.” Turns out, I did and I’m glad I gave asparagus another shot. Now you may wonder why I am telling you about my little adventure with asparagus. First, it gave me a chance to take shots at turnip greens, broccoli, and brussels sprouts and I am always thankful for that opportunity. Secondly, and way more importantly, this little asparagus soapbox got me to pondering about something spiritual. I can’t tell you how many times I have heard statements like, “I love Jesus, but I hate the church…you can be a Christian and not go to church…I used to go to church but I am just taking a break for a while.” While these folks may be well-meaning, they are just as wrong about the church as I was about asparagus. Jesus Christ Himself said, “I will build MY church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” He also bled and died to purchase the church. As Christians we are commanded to gather (Heb. 10:25). If you are reading this and you have given up on the church, may I ask you to do something for me? Don’t look for a church with best music, nicest building, best speaker, or the most programs. Look for a church that teaches ALL of the Bible. One that believes the Bible is the inerrant Word of God AND a church that loves its members and its community the way that Jesus does. There is no such thing as a perfect church, but there are good churches out there that will help you get your life right with God and will help you learn, grow, and love.
Be blessed and be a blessing . . . Bro. Andy
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