Time For The Church To Step Up

I took part the other day in a webcast with Rick Warren. Yes, that Rick Warren. And during his conversation with us, he pointed out that historically, bad times have been good times for the church. He noted that when the props of society and people's false securities are removed, the church has a great opportunity to step into the vacuum created with the Good News of Jesus Christ.

I wholeheartedly agree with this. But I think that the church, unfortunately, too often mirrors the world and not the Gospel. Rather than being bold in our witness and outreach, many churches today are looking to cut staff, budgets and programs. When we should be out front offering the words of Jesus in Matthew 6, "not to be anxious, but seek first the kingdom"; we are "hunkered in the bunker."

I think now is the time for the church to be more visible. To offer more, not less. Our church was out front on some of these issues and we had in place things like Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University and Angel Food Ministries. We were strategically positioned to have an impact. And we are looking at expanding, not contracting our efforts.

Even in tough economic times, I think if presented with a compelling vision, the people of God can and will step it up. What is needed is courageous leaders to sound that advance. I appeal to our churches to trust God and move out in faith. Don't let fear cause you to miss what could be the beginning of a great work of God's Spirit in our land.