Dance

What one word best describes the mood of the world today? I know it is unfair to categorize the whole world by one word.  I guess I am searching for the majority opinion. I started with the angst, the feeling of dread or anxiety. This seems too harsh. Disappointed and overwhelmed are close. I have settled on stressed. People today are stressed out. There is great reason for people to be stressed—money worries, rebellious children, unhappy marriage, health problems, terrorists, and no hope for a better future. This is our world.

Counter wise, I muse the word which best describes the mood of the church of Jesus Christ? Many words may describe the current mood of the church. One word should characterize the church—joyful. Acts 2:42–47, “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. ⁴³ And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. ⁴⁴ And all who believed were together and had all things in common. ⁴⁵ And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. ⁴⁶ And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, ⁴⁷ praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.”

When trouble comes many people run away, some stand and fight, most simply whimper. We live in a world of whiners today. When trouble comes to Christ followers, we dance! James 1:2, “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18, “Rejoice always, ¹⁷ pray without ceasing, ¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

In Acts 2:42-47 we have a brief description of the first church. They devoted themselves (zealots) to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayer. These are the pillars of a strong and healthy church. The results of have strong pillars in place are a family of believers, who sense the awesome presence of God in their midst. Wonders and signs are a regular occurrence. The needs of the people are met. The members enjoy a high level of unity, joy and contentment. People outside of the church like what they see inside. So, they come to the church, get saved and become part of the church family.

Have you ever been on the outside of a certain group of people longing to belong? I have. From outward appearances it seems like this group of friends is ideal. They may or may not be. Usually, we don’t get invited into such a group. We are left out. In a healthy church, there is always room for one more. Come join the fun. Come dance with us.

Peace,

SS