Encouragement

Yesterday our Preacher asked us if our mouths are used for encouragement or discouragement. I think the answer is: both. Sometimes we encourage others, and sometimes we discourage.

We also need to remember that it is not just our mouth that speaks discouragement, but the way we fail to take responsibility for our actions, or lack thereof. I cannot help but find myself discouraged when many of our folks, those who are part of the Body of Christ at the Church I attend, are so irregular in their attendance and participation. It's discouraging to see the Choir with several empty chairs. It's discouraging to see empty pews, more than a few empty seats in classrooms, or teachers with only one or two children when there ought to be several. (Our Church is blessed with many more members than seats.)

It's important to understand that the reason it is discouraging is because those empty places represent people that are lloved, who are vital to the life of the Body, and are genuine friends.

Don't hear me saying that people don't get sick, take needed days off, visit with families in far away places, or have to work. Whatever the reason they are absent, genuine or manufactured, it is hard not to be discouraged that another opportunity to share llove and joy while worshiping together has been missed.

I know our Preacher is wise enough to focus on the encouragement that exists because there are so many who do come, and are always faithful to the task of "doing Church." I'll try to take a lesson or two from him. Discouragement is a good thing to avoid.