THE CHURCH

That's the title of this photo. Without the title, I don't believe I would have recognized it as such. But architecturally and modernly, there was probably a purpose for its design.

Without a steeple, without a cross, well it doesn't look much like a church. But that's the way of the modern world. We don't much seem to like traditional churches.

Trying to grow our church, many of us have done much research, attended conferences, relied on our association and have found a few commonalities.

Most in the post-modern era do not want to be identified as Methodists, Presbyterians, Baptists, etc. Many of the new churches are non-denominational with names such as Journey, Silver Lakes, or By His Grace. That seems to attract.

Many don't feel comfortable in a church. They'd rather meet in homes, restaurants, or community buildings. Plus, most do not want to go to church for anything rather than Sunday worship.

Most want to dress so casually that upon appearances others couldn't tell if they were going to church or out to mow the yard. Blue jeans, flip flops are not just reserved for the congregation either. "Putting on your Sunday best" is archaic.

But you know what? That may not be my preference, old school as I am. I like a church that looks like one. I have attended many churches with denominational names and not and it doesn't bother me in the least to be identified as a Conservative Baptist. I have always felt good, felt at home in a church whether it was Sunday or any other day of the week. And, though I don't wear a tie to Sunday services anymore, I wouldn't mind.

But none of that is as important as wanting to know the Lord. Wanting to worship Him. Wanting to study the Bible. Wanting to be a follower of Jesus. The rest is all fluff.