A Distinguished Church

As a pastor I often think about what it is about the church that distinguishes it from any other organization.  People come into the group, set regular times to meet, follow certain customs, and so forth.  The same could be said about the pretty much any civic organization or club.  What is it that sets the church apart from any other group? 

     In my early morning reading one day last week, I read a statement that just answered that question in a powerful way.  It points to an incredible truth that could revitalize the life of any church, or perhaps even your personal faith.  The statement was made during a dialogue between Moses and the Lord: 

     Exodus 33:12 Moses said to the LORD, "You have been telling me, `Lead these people,' but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. You have said, `I know you by name and you have found favor with me.' 13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people." 14 The LORD replied, "My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest." 15 Then Moses said to him, "If your Presence does not go with us, do not send us up from here. 16 How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?" 17 And the LORD said to Moses, "I will do the very thing you have asked, because I am pleased with you and I know you by name."

If anything will truly distinguish the church from other group it is in this…the presence of the Lord.  It is not programs or styles of worship.  It is a people gathered around one central factor…God’s presence.  And, it begins with one person in an intimate connection to the Lord, the kind of relationship that says I know you, and I know your name.  Today…have a blessed day walking in the Presence.