This morning I was the first one at the office, so I parked my car, went in to the office, and never gave it another thought. Two hours later I looked out my window and this is what I saw. The next staff member parked their car at a distance from mine and then the next car parked a distance away and then the next car did the same. [See photo.]

At first I thought, “Is this how our relationships are here at the church? No one wants to get too close to anyone?” Is it just safer to keep your distance so no one gets any scratches?

Churches can easily become a place where you go but you don’t allow anyone to get too close, and you aren’t given the opportunity to get close to anyone. When churches get in this mode, a very important dynamic is missing. The CARE is lost, and it becomes a place to go and put in time with your attendance, and maybe get your batteries charged, but that’s it. If that be the case… no wonder so many churches are dying.

I’m thankful that’s not the characteristic of StoneRidge. This church family cares for each other, even with all our bumps, bruises and baggage. There is a bond among so many that can’t be separated.

As far as the staff cars parked the way they are in the photo… I’m still trying to figure that one out. I’ll get back to you if I discover anything.

Pastor Donald Calder