Love Jesus, Hate Church!

Today I browsed through a book I cataloged titled, "Love Jesus, Hate Church." Ahh, my sentiments exactly. After attending Victory Christian Center in OKC, my relationship with Jesus Christ grew and I grew impatient with traditional church. Pastor Mark Crow believed that each individual should have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. As that relationship grows, behaviors would change and so would lives. In addition, my kids were involved in the children's ministry, not only could I enjoy service, but my kids were being taught relevant messages and their love for church grew.

Then something happened-- I moved to MS. I moved to Northwest MS, 32 miles from Memphis, there would be no problem finding a church that would continue to challenge me, right? Wrong-- I didn't realize I was moving into a denominational warzone! I visited a Penecostal church--three hours of wrestling with my kids ; I tried a Baptist-- pretty much the same thing. Does anyone here have a children's ministry? NO! Children need to learn how to sit and listen and not play all the time. We don't do daycare at our church. Okay, not only am I bored out of my wits listening to a preacher talk about the way things used to be, but my kids are twisting and turning and asking me when are we leaving. If the sermon isn't relevant to my issues/problems today, how do they expect kids to listen. "Love Jesus, Hate Church."

So, being a librarian, I did some research and found a nondenominational church in Olive Branch, MS-- a 40 minute drive. I've found a scenic route, so I relax on the way and my mind is alert and ready to receive the message. Not only do I hear life changing messages, my kids are taught relevant Bible lessons and have fun at church. I know what you're thinking, "you drive 40 minutes to church?" I've heard that question a few times from coworkers and family members, but I quickly point out that we would drive 40 minutes to go to a mall, or a nice restaurant or a football/basketball game. I see no difference, my soul and spirit are being fed and my kids are excited about going to church. The congregation is diverse, the praise and worship is spirit lifting and the message is relevant and challenging.As I browsed through the book, I saw many examples of the churches I've attended through the years and my heart aches for those who truly have a hunger for God, but are stuck in the traditional church where so much is based on appearance. We live in a sight and sound generation and to reach people, we've got to change the way we do things. I've heard it said, "don't change the message, just the method." I think that is very well put.