“Awe came upon everyone, because many wonders and signs were being done by the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their possessions and goods and distribute the proceeds to all, as any had need. Day by day, as they spent much time together in the temple, they broke bread at home and ate their food with glad and generous hearts, praising God and having the goodwill of all the people. And day by day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.” Acts 2:43-47
Over the last decade, many have been asking why the Church is declining in numbers. As a young pastor, I get asked all the time how to bring young people into the Church. The simple answer is: I don't know.
All I can say is why I believe in the Church. I believe there's immense power when people come together to praise and worship God. It is a miraculous thing when people come together for the benefit of our community.
Our goal is to emulate and become more like Jesus Christ every day. When we do that as a community, great things can happen. Not only are individuals transformed, but whole communities can be transformed by the power of the body of Christ. Everyone can be cared for; not only the people in the Church but also those outside it. The Church can bring comfort, help build people up, and create respect for themselves and others.
In the passage above from Acts, we have what life was like in the early Church; when it is in its best form. We see examples of people being cared for, supporting one another while also rejoicing in their time together and learning from one another. These are only a few things that I believe are important about the Church. That is why I believe it is still relevant today. I believe there is always hope not only for the Church but also for our community and our world.
Coming to Ketchikan, I have met many people who care deeply about this community and want nothing but the best for it. As we continue to strengthen our home and one another, the Church can be one of the best places in which we band together for the common good.
That is why I believe in the Church. That is why I continue to serve the people of God because I believe we can build a better world today and in the future when we work together as the body of Christ.
I leave you with this short message, and wherever you go, May the peace of Jesus Christ go with you.
The Rev. David Owsley is senior pastor of First United Methodist Church Ketchikan and Ketchikan Presbyterian Church.
Perspectives is a regular column sponsored and written by members of the Ketchikan Ministerial Association.