Hebrews 10:25

“Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching.” Hebrews 10:25 (KJV)

The pandemic didn’t change ranching life for many folks working in agriculture. Animals and crops thrived outdoors, and we enjoyed acres of pasture paths for walking or riding horses without having to wear a mask. But my church world changed drastically. I didn’t relish the thought of shaking hands or hugging people inside a crowded sanctuary. Instead of leaving in the car on Sunday mornings, I enjoyed watching church online with my husband. The first few times, we sat glued to the television. My cat paraded in front of the screen, as she always did when she wanted attention. The fourth Sunday of our televised evangelism experience, Mouser sat in front of the TV at 9:45 a.m. sharp. Her black tail flipped to the beat of the congregational music. Soon, my standard poodle and Belgium sheepdog joined her, one on either side, and sprawled across the floor in front of our outstretched legs. Unlike attending church in the building, we attended online church as a family. At home, children didn’t sprint down the aisles and scream during the best part of the message. Still, I missed seeing congregational members in person, checking to see if God had answered this prayer or healed a friend’s mother. Understandably, many homebound attendees must attend church online for the duration, and I commend them for their dedication to the Word of God. But when I could participate in person again, I began to feel more at ease about our new church life. We attended, right? When you consider the percentage of residents who attend fishing or sporting events, camp, or hike during the Sabbath, my conscience didn’t bother me tremendously. I’ll be the first to admit that my husband and I watched church online for way too long. Habits can be comforting, such as eating oatmeal for three days straight because it’s easy to prepare and convenient. I suspect that many people enjoy the benefit of not having to drive an hour or more to the closest church building. But attending church in person is far more fulfilling for me. Perhaps it’s the feeling of belonging or encouraging the pastor. Together, the church body lifts its voice in praise to the Savior, and goosebumps rise across the back of my neck—a feeling I never experienced while sitting in front of the TV. In our Montana world, my husband and I recently enjoyed the blessing of attending church in person under the tutelage of a local pastor with a shepherd’s heart. We encouraged him after an insightful message. Our marriage, prayer life, and worship time have benefited from the goodness of God that we experience in community.