February 14, 2020

Rerun from Daily Devotional February 4, 2016

A few days ago, John dropped by the church with a list that his wife really wanted me to see. I’m glad he did.

“12 Reasons Why I as a Pastor Have Decided To Quit Attending Sporting Events

1. The coach never came to visit me.
2. Every time I went, they asked for money.
3. The people sitting in my row didn’t seem very friendly.
4. The seats were very hard.
5. The referees made a decision I didn’t agree with.
6. I was sitting with hypocrites – they only came to see what others were wearing!
7. Some games went into overtime and I was late getting home.
8. The band played some songs I had never heard before.
9. The games are scheduled on my only day to sleep in and run errands.
10. My parents took me to too many games when I was growing up.
11. Since I read a book on sports, I feel that I know more than the coaches anyway.
12. I don’t’ want to take my children because I want them to choose for themselves what sport they like best.”

There will always be excuses people use to not go to church. Believe it or not, I had one woman say she wouldn’t go to church because I had not shaken her hand hard enough. When I was told what she said, I thought to myself that she better know a good orthopedic surgeon before the next time we shook hands.

God said, “Remember the Sabbath day, and keep it holy.” (Exodus 20:8) Part of keeping the Sabbath holy is gathering with other believers. But evil will always try to find a way to exploit our weaknesses. Don’t let that happen.

Make the conscious commitment to be in church on Sunday mornings. And if you have complaints about listening to your boring pastor, come listen to me. Then you will think your pastor is a genius.

Prayer: Dear Gracious Heavenly God, please help me to make you my top priority. On Sunday mornings, when I am tempted to do other things, guide me back to you house. Give me peace, strength and a hunger to draw closer to you. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

When I was a teenager, I wanted to do other things than church on Sunday mornings. My father made it very clear. I could either go to church or die. It was my choice.

I praise God that my father thought my church attendance was so important that he threatened my life. He really loves me. I hope someone loves you that much.

I pray your day is filled with joy and laughter.
Tom Robbins