ReDefining the Church ... Again

I've long been taught that the Church is not a building ... it's the people. However, I am currently pondering if that's truly accurate. Is the Church just a body of people who follow a set of beliefs in the Triune God?

Could it be that the Church really is the building?

Hear me out ...

If the Church is the people, then it's surely a flawed bunch of persons. And by flawed, I mean that the body of Christ is often not as welcoming and loving as it should be. The radical hospitality that Jesus displayed is hard to emulate. So if the Church is the people, then it might be a bit inefficient at conveying the love and acceptance of Jesus.

If, however, the Church is a building ... more specifically a sanctuary ... then it is a sacred and safe space where one is invited, accepted, and unconditionally loved by God. It is a place that does not depend on the congregation's ability, or inability, to be hospitable.

When the Church is a truly open and safe space for everyone, then the Church is what it's meant to be. It is holy ground. A safe space of unconditional love and acceptance. An open table. It is God's house, a place where all are equal and all are loved.

I'll close with the words to "To Everyone Born, A Place At The Table":

For everyone born, a place at the table, 
for everyone born, clean water and bread, 
a shelter, a space, a safe place for growing, 
for everyone born, a star overhead,

For woman and man, a place at the table, 
revising the roles, deciding the share, 
with wisdom and grace, dividing the power, 
for woman and man, a system that's fair,

For just and unjust, a place at the table, 
abuser, abused, with need to forgive, 
in anger, in hurt, a mindset of mercy, 
for just and unjust, a new way to live,

And God will delight 
when we are creators of justice 
and joy, compassion and peace: 
Yes, God will delight 
when we are creators of justice, 
justice and joy! 

Shirley Erena  Murray  Words © 1998 Hope Publishing Company