Wednesday's Word: Changing Channels

"I don't like this program."
Grace Marie, Age 5

It was Sunday and attending the brick and mortar church was not an option because of illnesses tat had run their course in the family.  But because of the wonder of online viewing, my brother and his family decided to log on to become part of the virtual congregation.  

My niece watched for a bit, but was not amused.  After "attending" for a brief time, she told her parents that she would rather see what was playing on the Disney Kids' channel.

I'm not sure whether the service was boring, the reception was poor, or whether the  content was clear. I'm also not sure whether Grace would have had the same reaction had she attended the brick  and mortar service.   

I am sure, though, that it's harder to leave a service than it is to leave a virtual church.  The hard work of community building and relationships requires time, face to face persistence and the ability not to abandon a community at the click of a mouse.   

I hope that the next time Grace "attends" church, that she will be persuaded to
stay in time to hear a Word that blesses and feeds her.  More importantly, I pray that Grace--and those of her generation--will embrace a community of faith that encourages, inspires  and transforms the world.