Better than you...all churchy and stuff.

I can't believe I going here, but here it goes - deep breath, I am prepared to get many an eye roll! For me and for any one else that attends church on a regular basis, how often do you hear a derogatory tone about "church going" or a sarcastic tone about "ohhhh YOU go to church?" or an air quote "she's a Christian" or "so and so thinks she/he is SO much better than _____ (feel free to insert a name here) because they GO to that church." and the list goes on and on. You know it and I know it.  As for my sinning self, I attend church because I desire too - DESIRE too, in case you missed it. I rely on my Savior at each moment of the day. I can do Bible studies, I can study my lessons, I can read my Bible, and I pray. BUT, I NEED my church, NEED, in case you missed it. I giggle at the thought of impressing someone by attending church and belly laugh, almost to the point of a snort, at the thought of me thinking I impress someone by attending church. Sundays can be a struggle; same as Monday through Saturday. Oh and Wednesday, whew, we've slid sideways on the parking lot just to make it in time! (I'm almost serious!!) The Circus, we're often late; over sleep and miss a service; run back into the house for a bathroom trip; may have forgotten to study the lesson; break the speed limit to make it on time; sometimes forget a Bible; and ... wait for it...snap at each other on the way to church!  GASP. Yep, I know you're surprised, right!  What church going people actually fight in the car!?!?!  You see, I am a sinner saved by grace. I don't get that grace from attending church. I don't get that grace from impressing anyone or receiving stars on an attendance chart. I receive that grace from my Savior. I attend church to worship and praise Him for all that He does or yes, can I get an amen, for all that He has not done! AMEN!  When I tell you that I am glad to see you at church, or invite you to church or even let you know that you have been missed at church, it's not because I am trying to impress you or make you believe that you must have an invitation or by all means, that my sins are prettier than yours, but simply, that it's a good great place to meet your Savior and build relationships with others that walk the same path. Oh and yes, I have struggles. Sundays and pews don't fix struggles! It allows me to deal with them better! And hold up, not BETTER THAN YOU, just better than me alone!  Now, knock off the derogatory remarks will you, because ain't nobody got time for that!