Come Together

Come Together

Let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near.

Hebrews 10:25

In many towns across America you can visit at least twenty different churches, and you’ll have a different experience in each. Some churches have contemporary worship songs; others use hymns. Some pastors read from their notes. One I know accepts text messages from members of the congregation when he preaches. Unlike the variety you find in non-Amish churches, there is a standard flow to most Amish services.

Old Order Amish usually have church every other Sunday. Families who live in the same district come together on this day. Worship begins with a short sermon by one of the local preachers or the bishop of the district. Scripture reading and prayer come next, and then a time of silent prayer. This is followed by a second, longer sermon.

The service also includes hymns from the Ausbund, sung without instruments or harmony. The way in which the hymns are sung has been passed down from generation to generation. They are written in Early New High German, which is a predecessor to Standard German.

Growing up, I found peace in the order of my church. But the church is the body of Christ, and the most important part of worship isn’t the order of the service. The most important part is gathering together to encourage one another and to glorify God.

Do you regularly attend church? If not, consider joining a local congregation. It’s good to find one that you are comfortable in, but the most important thing is that the teaching comes from the Word of God and that God is honored there.

God never intended us to walk this Christian life alone. We were created for community, and when we are together, we can get a glimpse of eternity, where we’ll be together with all the believers and with Christ.

Dear heavenly Father, remind me as I gather with fellow believers that the focus of our gathering shouldn’t be on our traditions or hymns or worship style; the focus should be on You. I’m excited for the day when all Your people—no matter what tradition—will join together in worship!