The Past was the Hero
"The Past was the Hero" by Steve Fowler
“There were so many kids coming to church that we had to hold Sunday School classes in people’s cars in the church parking lot!” This was one of the legendary stories of the church I had begun to pastor. It was a fascinating tale of the church in her heyday some 35 years ago. I loved hearing the stories of God on the move, but Ecclesiastes 7:10 was ringing in my ears. Don’t long for “the good old days.” This is not wise.
In his book, “Autopsy of a Deceased Church,” author Thom Rainier identifies the most pervasive and common thread of why so many churches in America die. The past was the hero. Rainier says, “Each year these churches clung tightly to things of the past with desperation and fear. And, should anyone attempt to change the patterns of the past, people responded with anger and resolution: ‘We will die before we change.’ And they did.”
One of the common themes of the faith heroes found in Hebrews 11 is their hope for the future. They endured pain and disappointment because of what they believed the future held for them. They believed the best was yet to come. They lived with a longing for more. What are you longing for? What would you like to see Jesus do more of?
Take your answers and turn them into prayers. Nothing is impossible with God.
Author: Steve Fowler - February 2023