CHURCH PICNIC

But if we walk in the light as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin. 1 John 1:7 (MEV)

A country church nestled deep in the woods, housed only a few parishioners. Though the windows had been flung wide open, on a blistering hot summer Sunday morning, the stifling heat was not made easier.

A wasp diving and circling like a little bi-plane doing his tricks came close to landing on my head. I would duck its aim and watch it land on the back of someone a few pews in front of me. I could hardly sit still in my seat and listen to the sermon that day. It wasn’t because of the wasp or the heat, I was fidgeting because I was excited about the church picnic following the service. It was always a treat, especially if lunch at the park was followed with swimming in the local creek. On a hot summer day with loads of covered dishes, pies and cakes of every kind, friends to play with, and the cool clear water of the gravel bottom creek, nothing could make this little girl any happier.

I have fond memories of this and other church fellowships where we would not only worship together, but would take time to visit with one another. Maybe there would be a fish fry, a quilting group, a pot luck dinner, a soft ball game, a Christmas pageant or a summer picnic. The activity brought a little fun to a group of people who already met in a more structured setting of worship. 

Having church socials allows us the opportunity to come to know one another on a more personal level, resulting in deep friendships. It’s an important factor of church activity, because it helps us to bond with one another in love. It’s also a great tool for witnessing in a casual setting. Not everyone who attends the worship service, or a church social gathering knows the Lord personally.

 We pray, eat, laugh, listen, debate, confess, exchange advice, sing, and have fun, like a family of brothers and sisters in Christ that we are. We bear each other’s burdens and we help to hold each other accountable. We also set examples, leaving indelible impressions on our children, who are watching how adult Christians conduct themselves while intermingling in an informal setting. It could be termed, “The gathering of the saints.” We are saints through Jesus, and as we gather together in worship and fellowship, we are also gathering with Christ.

Dear Lord,

Thank you for our fellowship with you and with others.

Amen