You.

Remember the days of old? Consider the generations long past. Ask your father, and he will tell you your elders, and they will explain to you. Deuteronomy 37, verse seven. Just for fun, let me ask how many of the following things you remember. Some of you who have been around the block a few times will remember these things with great clarity. Some of you who are much younger might wonder if these things were really things, and I assure you they were. So here we go. Do you remember when church buildings had no air conditioning and handheld fans were provided in the pew racks, usually having a Bible story or picture on the front with verses of scripture or words of a hymn on the back? Do you remember wooden pews with no cushions? Do you remember chalk art drawings that were done while a hymn was played on the piano or organ? Do you remember Sunday school classes with names like the gleaners? Do you remember when the church restroom was simply an outhouse with no running water? Do you remember two week long revival meetings? Do you remember youth sings chorus books? Do you remember when women wore dresses and hats to church on Sunday and when men wore coat and ties? Do you remember when church buildings had steeples and bells that were rung by pulling a rope? None of these are matters of salvation, of course, but they are part of our history as christians and as churches. While I'm not suggesting we reinstall some of these things, I do suggest that we at least acknowledge the contribution they made to the faith and life of many churches and christians through the years. Don't know what some of these things are? Ask your parents or grandparents if you're fortunate enough to have them still on this side of heaven. I can guarantee that the older generations would be delighted to share their stories with you, and you might learn a little something in the bargain.

This has been your thought for the day with Steve Burkham, pastor of Community Christian Church in Stockton, California. If you have questions or comments for Pastor Steve, please send them to [email protected] have a great day, and we hope you'll join us tomorrow as Pastor Steve opens God's word to bring us another thought for the day.