Different people “go to church” different places on Sunday. That’s pretty obvious, isn’t it? Where is “your church”? That may sound like a simple question, or it may sound like an odd question. Consider this as the context.
In a recent issue of Sun Sentinel, there was a Community News report about an event called “Cars & Coffee Palm Beach,” which is “a monthly showcase of thousands of custom, classic and exotic vehicles” in the outlet mall parking lot. But, here is how the article begins.
“There’s nothing like the smell of exhaust fumes with your morning coffee.
“For motorheads, a monthly Sunday meetup at the Palm Beach Outlets is their church and the parking lot is their pew. Yes, Cars & Coffee Palm Beach is a religious experience for car guys (and gals) of all types.
“They pray for a prime parking spot and read from the gospels of Ford, Chevy, Dodge and Lamborghini. They gather to worship vehicles from Audi to Zephyr.
“Doting owners wash and vacuum their rides—a hot rod Sunday best, if you will—in anticipation of their flock of admirers who line the curb with cell phones in hand to catch a glimpse as they parade in ‘Fast and Furious’ style.
“Whether they’ve been cruising the beach, mudding or peeling out, drivers wash away the sins of the week with a wax job that would make Mr. Miyagi proud.”
The lighthearted comparison between “The Car Show” and “Sunday church” is a sad (but realistic) commentary on our society today. In a very real sense, individuals have made “their church” on Sundays something very different than what the Lord had in mind for His day! The question is, Have you?
Where is “your church” on Sunday? Have you replaced where God wants you to be with “His church” on Sundays (and doing what He wants) with “your church”? Is “your church” in your bed? On the lake? At the beach? On the course? At the game? On the sofa? “The Car Show” is “their church.” What is “your church”?
Too many Christians have replaced “His church” with their own church, and too many have convinced themselves that they are ok. “I deserve this.” “I need this.” “I can’t cope or continue if I don’t do this.” “Going to church is too much for me right now.”
God’s church assembles every first day of the week to worship Him! Do you? Or do you have “your church”?