More Bars

My cell phone company advertizes more bars in more places, but we don’t get too many bars out here. In fact, on a cloudy day, we don’t get any. I’ve found three places in our house where I can usually find a signal in even the worst weather, but even then, there are times when I have to dial over and over again to get through. It’s frustrating at those times!

To help, my husband ordered some cell phone boosters. You place them inside your phone next to the battery. They are supposed to focus the signal so you get better reception. At first, my son and I didn’t notice a difference; then Seth read that you can put two of these things in your phone for even better reception. He tried it, and it actually works! We still have to walk around the house searching for a signal on occasion, but most of the time we have at least two bars.

It occurs to me that going to church is like using those cell phone boosters. It's not about the preaching--though this student does appreciate one that feeds her appetite. It's not about the music style or church decor, either--though great music and an aesthetic atmosphere are nice. What really matters overall is me or you being there with God’s people. Jesus said, “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them” (Matthew 18:20) . It's the coming together that gives us all a boost because the coming together welcomes God into our midst!

Yes, God hears my prayers when I am alone. Yes, I can worship Him and study the Bible alone--I often do. But corporate worship provides a weekly boost, helps me and fellow worshippers focus, and helps us all hear more from God. When His people unite, there really are more bars, and (if I keep my battery charged with prayer) the signal will last all week—no matter how many life storms.


Related verses: Psalm 122:1, Hebrews 10:25

Originally published July 18, 2008.