July 14, 2009

Number 28

VIEWPOINT

That news reminded me of an article some time back about an unmanned launch.  The planned mission was to collect scientific data from space.  The beginning of the flight seemed to work perfectly.  120 seconds after lift-off, however, the huge rocket veered off course and began an erratic path.  Safety officers had to abort the mission and destroy the rocket.  Thirteen million dollars went up in smoke.  Of course that’s peanuts in government terms, but years of hard work were also lost in a matter of seconds. 

I look forward to seeing you Sunday with a Bible, a smile and a positive word.   RA

Are You An Apathist?

 I read a tongue-in-cheek announcement the; other day about a new church that was just starting up.  Here’s an edited version of the official; announcement:

“Feel religious but don't want to identify with a specific denomination? Don't think that atheists or agnostics have the answer?  Then join our church, a, new religion with a new attitude: Apathists.  The Church of Apathy was on the minds of its founders for years before they finally put it together.  It's just the thing for today's modern Christian who wants to be religious, but doesn't have the time or energy to invest in a church.  Apathists do not believe in commitment.  We understand when people don't attend or get involved.  In fact, we don't schedule activities so your calendar will be free to do those things you are more excited about.  Apathists come from all kinds of religious backgrounds.  The thing we have in common is our lack of zeal.  You'll be comfortable because no one will ever challenge you to think, to change, to act1vely participate, to contribute money, or in any way sacrifice for your faith.  How, do you become an Apathist?  Easy, just, affirm your apathetic belief system, and then relax. That's all there is to It!"

Well, there you are! How convenient. I suspect there will be many who will gladly and excitedly join that group.  Actually the truth is that some may already have signed up.  After all, apathy is a deadly disease that has affected the Lord's people for a long time.  It's doubtful that it would take a new religion to interest people in becoming Apathists. 

Check out these signs of apathy to see if you joined: 

• You just aren't interested in church or spiritual things

• You look for excuses not to attend church functions.

• You dread being asked to volunteer to hel

• You're answer to being invited to church functions is, “I’ll be there unless something else comes up.”

•  If someone wants to find you at assembly times, they know not to look at church.

• You think it's too much trouble to even think about lost people.

• You tend to believe that everyone is really OK with God, and no one will be lost.

It's worth thinking about. "Don't become an Apathist    (by Bil1I Denton)