|
Are you a backdoor Baptist? Many of us who attend First Baptist, Malden, are! Over the years, numerous visitors to our church have mentioned that they weren't sure what our building was. Some have stated they thought the church was part of the Malden Public Library, while others thought the library was part of the church. The buildings' similar architectural design was intentional - not to confuse people, but to complement each other. We have added signs, but even these have not totally eliminated the confusion. Sometimes when I open the front gates on Sunday mornings, and other times when special events are taking place in the building, individuals either sitting on the steps waiting for a bus or walking by on the sidewalk have asked if our congregation even exists. Other than noticing the gates being opened or closed, they rarely see any people using that entrance. Several months ago, one of our newer members offered an insightful observation and suggestion that could help people in the community realize that we are an active and viable congregation. That suggestion is that as many of us as possible, begin using the front entrance to the church when we arrive and depart on Sundays. While it is so convenient to use one of the parking lot entrances, we are really hiding the fact that we attend and participate in this congregation. So, weather permitting, I am encouraging all of us who are able to begin using the front entrance to the church on Sundays. This will require a few extra steps for many, but it will make a dramatic statement to the community - First Baptist is alive and active! Jesus told his followers: "You are the light of the world - like a city on a mountain, glowing in the night for all to see. Don't hide your light under a basket! Instead, put it on a stand and let it shine for all. In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father" (Matthew 5:14-16 NLT). My challenge for us is not to hide our participation at FBC through the back door, as if sneaking in and out - instead, enter through the front gates and door so that all may see. This may be the best testimony of our faith we make some days.
Pastor Martha Dominy |
|