An index card is posted on my note board containing a scripture to commit to memory. Over the last few days I've really mulled over its meaning.

"Not staying away from our meetings, as some habitually do, but encourage each other, and all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:25

Do you place importance on attending church? I hope so. This scripture says we need not stay away from our meeting times with our local congregation. And, let's face it, some certainly do habitually miss going to church. Unfortunately, we will drag ourselves to work even if we are half dead, but we will stay home from corporate worship if we just have a sniffle or are too tired.

The church was not established as another appointment on your busy calendar. This verse says we should encourage each other. When we meet to worship, we are gathering with our brothers and sisters in Christ. We come to glorify God together. We come to praise Him for who He is and what He has done. We come to share burdens. Having been out in the world, we join together to lift each other up and spur each other on.

"...all the more as you see the day drawing near." Let's face it, we're closer to Jesus' coming than ever. The condition of the world we must live in is tough to bear sometimes. Who better to encourage than another child of God?

So, let me spur you on my Christian brother or sister. Don't skip the opportunity to go to church and worship. While there, take the time to absorb some encouragement and give some in return. The time is coming when we'll all be together in a neverending worship. May as well practice now!