How Old Are You?

Hello Church,

'How old are you?'  My wife asks me this question when I act like a child.  Usually I have done something really dumb or silly.  I normally do not answer the question for it may incriminate me. 

Maturity is a subjective term, but it is still a legitimate discussion regarding our spiritual lives as well.  As we walk with Christ, we should be growing in Christ.  The walking part is difficult.  The growing part is even more so.

So how do you measure spiritual maturity?  United Methodism certainly has its ways and it isn't so much different than other denominational churches.  Wesley would take us rather quickly to the issue of piety.  Some of us never get there.  Some don't want to.  However, it is clear to see that spiritually mature churches do more effective work for our Lord.  So here are some evidences of spiritual maturity. 

Keep the main thing the main thing - staying focused on Christ and His desires is a big, mature step.  Prayer, study and worship are big components to keeping our eyes on the desire of the Divine.  When we put focus on the back burner, we stray away from God's desires for us.  This puts us at risk of spiritually immature behavior. 

Crossing the threshold - Spiritual maturity is about crossing that line of thinking.  One line of thinking is, 'what can this church do for me?'  It is a consumer mentality that, in my opinion, most people will not ever get away from.  Some of this is the fault of modern churches that seek to be people-pleasers only, without the intent of disciple-making.  However, a mature Christian will eventually shift their thinking to that of 'what can I do to be the church?'.  I am no longer a 'consumer' of the church.  Now I am an 'employee' of the church.  This leads to.....

Self-Sacrifice - this is a big step.  Everything around us says to be concerned about self-preservation.  However, Christ was about giving of self.  Paul was about giving of self.  Wesley was about giving of self.  A mature Christian gives.  A mature church has a healthy budget and plenty of servant leaders.  Immature Christians moan about stewardship campaigns; complain about church meetings (even effective ones) and find ways to avoid committing their time to that ministry team that needs them.

How old is Emmanuel?

This Fall will put our maturity to the test.  We will need people to step up and lead.  We are already in search of a co-treasurer, Finance chair and Personal Discipleship Team leader.  We will also be looking for leadership in the area of youth, worship and community engagement.  Additionally, we are behind in our giving.  Commitments for 2020 will be sought after.   Yes, money will be talked about.  Yes, serving will be talked about.  Mature Christians not only expect it, they embrace it.  Why?  Because prayers, presence, gifts, service and witness are at the core of who we are as church members.  Without it, we become consumers only. 

We've had a good year so far.  Let's continue to be the church.

God Is Good,
Pastor Joe