Improving the Assembly
Ponder: What can I do to improve the assembly?
Scripture: “And they continued steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in prayers” (Acts 2:42 NKJV).
We ought always to do our best for the Lord, including (but not limited to) the assembly. Jesus is more than worthy of the finest service we can render. Here are some ways to improve the assembly:
Be There! The Lord wants His house filled (Luke 14:23). You’ve seen the cute saying: “We can’t spell CH_RCH without U!” Return every time the doors are open – it will be a blessing to you and everyone else who is there.
Be On Time! Generally this is a matter of self-discipline. We strive to be on time for school, work, medical appointments, and other important engagements. Are Bible class and the assembly less important?
Be Prepared! Start well in advance preparing your mind and heart. Get a good night’s sleep. If you are to teach or take some other leading role (singing, prayer, etc.), then be well-prepared for that.
Be Focused! In the assembly, we are to worship God and build one another up. It’s not about me, it’s about God and one another. Emotional excitement can be a fringe benefit, but the quality and success of an assembly should not be gauged by the level of excitement attained.
Be Active! You are a participant, not a spectator. Sing like you mean it! (You *do* mean it, don’t you?) In prayer, don’t just close your eyes and zone out; make the prayer your very own. Give with genuine cheerfulness. Listen intently to the Scripture reading and sermon. Make notes for further study. “Weakest ink longer lasting than greatest memory.” (Confucius didn’t say that, but he should have!) Let the Lord’s Supper remind you anew of Jesus’ death on your behalf (1 Corinthians 11:26); but meditate also on the spiritual body of Christ, “for we, though many, are one bread and one body, for we all partake of that one bread” (1 Corinthians 10:17).
Our Lord deserves our best. Please use these recommendations to improve the assembly where you are!
Song: “Oft We Come Together”
Prayer: Gracious Father in heaven, we thank you for the privilege of assembling with others of like precious faith. Help us, we pray, to honor You at all times, including in the assembly, and to build one another up in the most holy faith. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Joe Slater (Justin, TX)