“For where two or three are gathered together in My name, I am there in the midst of them.” Matthew 18:20

 Since the invention of food delivery services, like Grubhub and Instacart, many people enjoy eating at home; with the simple click of a few buttons, an order is placed and within a short amount of time the food or products selected are at the front door. Another service is worshipping God by watching a church service through online streaming from the comfort of home.

 Recent statistics report that 27% of Americans watch church services from home, either by TV or online, and 1/3 actually attend services in person. Of those who watch virtually, only 25% of them actively participate by praying, singing and engaging in the message, while 75% of the virtual participants feel a disconnect. 65% of those who attend a church service in person feel connected with others and all aspects of the service.

 The truth behind these comfort services is they lack certain qualities that can only be obtained by being there in person. Warm food, the décor, and enjoying fellowship with other restaurant goers makes dining in a memorable experience. The same goes for attending church in person, the close fellowship with others, the welcome feeling you get when you are there, and most importantly the presence of God.

 Today’s verse tells us where two or three are gathered, God is in the midst of them. It takes effort to attend corporate worship (waking early, getting dressed, kids ready…ect), but the benefits of being there are greater than sitting at home, disconnected from other believers and quite possibly God’s presence.

 One of the most impactful events in history is the birth of God’s Son, Jesus Christ. Tomorrow is the Sunday before Christmas and would be a perfect time for you to reconnect with God by attending church service in person. I can assure you, when you come to church, prepared to worship God, He will instill in you a connection to Himself that you won’t’ get sitting at home in your pajamas. Make time for God this Sunday and every Sunday, God will bless you with a genuine worship to keep the fire alive in your heart and soul! God bless!