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Two disciples of John the Baptist see Jesus passing by. John greets Jesus as the Lamb of God and the curious disciples begin to follow him. They ask where he is staying, and he invites
them to “come and see.”
What Are You Looking For?
I grew up at Reformation (literally and spiritually), giving
little thought to why a person chooses to attend one church over
another. I attended the church that my parents had chosen for
our family, and I am so thankful for the wonderful years I spent
there.
Now, my husband and I talk about the variety of different
congregations and what they offer. We are concerned about what
beliefs are presented to our children, as well as about how we
can get involved at church and really make a difference.
Looking for a church is something that my family and I have a
great deal of experience doing. Since I became an adult, I have
been a member of four different churches and I have visited
countless others. We are a military family. We are always
moving, and we want to make the most of whatever time we spend
in any one church home.
What are we looking for? Assuming the congregation shares our
beliefs and values, we are always looking for a strong sense of
community in our church home. We are looking for acceptance, for
friendship, for support, for family. Here we are in Japan. It’s
not just the Gospel that keeps us centered — it’s also the
support and love of our church family that holds us close.
Jesus knew he had a limited time for earthly ministry. He
invited some strangers to follow him. Those he invited asked
where he was going. He said, “Come and see.” It was an
invitation. The early followers did not know where they were
being led. They followed blindly, accepting without question.
But Jesus knew he would soon be gone, and they would need each
other. He encouraged them to support one another, and those
strong bonds helped to form the early fellowship of believers.
My husband, my children and I never know where the military will
take us. It’s kind of an invitation: “Come and see.” What are we
looking for wherever we go? We are looking for the family of
Christ.
Sara Muse Chesser
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