One of the biggest criticisms of the evangelical church today is that it is too self-interested. Didn't Jesus teach "whatever you do for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me" (Matt. 25:40)? Non-believers, of course, are quick to point out the hypocrisy of Christians--we bear the name of Christ but do not follow his teachings about love for our fellow human beings. In fact, sometimes the biggest and most important decisions are whether to air-condition our church sanctuaries or replace the upholstery on our church pews/chairs. While the condition of church buildings is not unimportant, it is exactly at this point that our fellow Haitian brothers and sisters can instruct us. Church is not about making us comfortable, it is about equipping us to serve our God and his world. So many Haitian churches, like the one pictured above (Villadewoz Christian Reformed Church), have so little. In fact, Villadewoz church doesn't even have a roof. It meets under a blue tarp! And yet Haitian churches like Villadewoz are so interested in worship of God and the proclamation of his Word, that they are willing to forego many material needs to see that goal achieved. If the church of North America wants to grow in numbers and influence, it must set aside self-interest and seek the welfare of God's people. Perhaps some of the money for air-conditioning and new upholstery could be used for poverty relief and gospel proclamation. Then our witness will be clear and the skeptics will be obligated to see our love for Christ in word and in deed.
Zach & Sharon, This is more true than I wish to believe. I belong to a wonderful inner city church who just replaced the stained carpet in the fellowship hall and there are those who are obsessed with how to keep the people we minister to (and the rest of us) from spilling on it. It seems we often "major in minors". I pray our witness will be genuine and we can see through to the real purpose and mission of Christ.
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