10/12/2026
"Nevertheless, I have this against you...."
Revelation 2:4
Sundays have always been special days for me, as I have wonderful memories from childhood of family gatherings at my grandparent's home each week after Sunday school and church services. All the uncles and aunts would gather, regardless of where they lived. One lived in Texas, so we didn't see them except on holidays, but I grew up around a large family. I miss those days, but I remember them well. Sundays remain special for me although I seldom see my family, but I attend services locally and online, and I also attend services on Saturday. I take the command not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together seriously, plus I love hearing the Scriptures read and applied to our life today based on Biblical prophecy. I never get tired of learning, and I learn something fresh and new each day. The Word is alive and active!
According to the Barna Group, a Christian research organization, church attendance has significantly decreased in many circles, and yet there are reports of the hunger for truth in the Gen Z youth. It's exciting to hear that the youth in this chaotic world are seeking truth instead of listening to lies and becoming involved in destructive activities. In recent months there have been many professions of faith and baptisms are happening in increasing numbers in many locations. It is exciting to see older people, such as myself, excited about evangelism. This is what we are to be doing, as it is what Jesus commanded before ascending to His Father.
Since the Covid pandemic church attendance still has not improved in some denominations, as people find it easier to watch online. Since Covid modern technology with Zoom meetings and YouTube videos have become widely used, so many feel they don't need to go to in-person services. In this way technology has hindered the cause of Christ, as people are becoming lazy, and they are missing out on the fellowship so necessary for spiritual growth and maturity. This is very disconcerting.
More than once today in my Bible studies I have been reminded of Jesus' message to the 7 Churches in Revelation 2 and 3 as relating to the condition of the worldwide church in this day. John begins with the message to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2: 1-7:
"To the angel of the church of Ephesus write, 'These things says He who holds the seven stars in His right hand, who walks in the midst of the seven golden lampstands: "I know your works, your labor, your patience and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name's sake and have not become weary. Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love. Remember, therefore from where you have fallen; repent and do the first works, or else I will come to you quickly and remove your lampstand from its place - unless you repent. But this you have, that you hate the deeds of the Nicolaitans, which I also hate. He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches. To him who overcomes I will give to eat from the tree of life, which is in the midst of the Paradise of God."'
The people in this church were actively busy in doing church, but they had forgotten to be the church, and they lost the personal relationship with the Lord so necessary in order to strengthen their own faith and discipleship of others. The modern church is often very engaged in this program and that, but as far as individual, personal time alone with the Lord, daily Bible reading and other personal devotions are put aside due to busy schedules. The prayer life becomes hurried and routine homilies. As an intercessor I am very hard on myself, and I ask Holy Spirit to search me and try me to see if there are any wrong ways in me. The prayer needs of our nation and world are so overwhelming, and we must never forget our families, friends, and others. I thank God that Holy Spirit dwells within the believer of Christ, and He is our Intercessor or Mediator with Jesus, who is interceding for us in heaven. We can do all things through Christ who gives us strength, and when we fall short we have only to cry out for help.
Because the time is getting closer for the return of Jesus we must be ready, our lamps lit, watching. In the messages to the church the Lord always encourages the churches, but repentance is needed to ensure we are on the right path. We need a fresh outpouring of God's Spirit, and we must return to our First Love. I recently heard a song First Love Fire by Leeland. In closing I share the lyrics:
First Love Fire

