They were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to breaking of the bread and to prayer.

Everyone kept feeling a sense of awe; and many wonders and signs were taking place through the apostles. And all those who had believed were together and held all things in common;   Acts 2:42-44 NASB

When I was a teenager, I felt a need to work. I wanted to make my own money. I wanted to feel some sort of independence. I felt an obligation to be able to pay for some of the things I enjoyed like riding around and going to movies and to eat with my friends. I wanted to make money but the thought of getting a job was a little frightening at first. What if I didn’t like the job? What if my co-workers didn’t like me? What if I messed up?

But most jobs I have had, I have really enjoyed. So while I needed to work I enjoyed going to work. I started going out of obligation. But once I dedicated myself to the job, I developed a strong desire to do the work.

My Christian life has been a lot like that. You see, my mother saw to it that I was in church every time the doors were opened for as long as I can remember. I remember, as a child, being in the nursery and going to church every Sunday morning, Sunday night and Wednesday night. I grew up in that church with my fellow nursery mates. I still see them from time to time and they too are dedicated to different churches now, but they still attend regularly and are serving in their churches.

When I got older and got out on my own, my church attendance was an obligation. It was something that I knew I needed to do. So, at least a couple times a month I would get myself up on Sunday morning and go to church. I didn’t attend Sunday school, Sunday night services or Wednesday night services.

When my husband and I started dating, he wanted to attend church with me. He then wanted to start going to Sunday School. My mom taught our class, so at first I thought he was just trying to butter up my mom. But then he started wanting to attend Sunday night services and Wednesday evening services. I must admit I was a little flustered with all this, but I was encouraged by his enthusiasm and so I agreed and went. I will admit that there were just some days when I just wanted to stay home and lay around, but because he was so enthusiastic about going, I went along. By the time the service was over I felt so blessed. Often times it was as though the sermon was just for me, it was just what I needed at that time.

But then something happened. I started really enjoying church. We started participating in work days and going for fun things like Bible studies and movie nights and holiday banquets. We got involved in church. This obligation turned to dedication. I was determined not to miss. I remember one Sunday having a migraine but desperately wanting to attend church. My husband was working and I got in my car and drove about a half mile from our home. My vision was so blurry that I had to turn around. I was so disappointed that I had to miss church that day. My obligation had turned to dedication and my dedication had turned to desire.

I began to attend not out of obligation, but I began to serve in my church and became dedicated in attendance and service. I then began to want to be with my church family. I enjoyed the work I did there. I enjoyed the company of my fellow workers. We developed a close, loving relationship. We became prayer warriors for each other. We were there for each other when times got tough.

This past Sunday was a very special day for me and for our church family. We worshipped for the first time in our church building. We formed our church two and a half years ago and have been in a house. But last Sunday was our first day in our church building. I couldn’t wait to get to church. I was so excited about what we have come through and the blessings God has poured upon us.

If you don’t attend church, my friend, you have no idea what you are missing. I thank God every day for my church family. If you are attending out of obligation, then get involved. You will be amazed at how quickly that obligation turns to true dedication. When you become dedicated to serving Christ through your church, you will be overwhelmed with a desire to do so. Don’t take my word for it, try it for yourself. You will be so glad you did.

Have a great day!