I Wouldn't Miss It for the World


Friendship, family, hugs and kisses, excitement, fellowship, encouragement, education, soul-
searching, uplifting, joyful, fun, rewarding, warm, spiritual, healing, helpful, intense, relaxing, 
friendly, glorifying, etc., etc.  No, I'm not talking about a family reunion, a football game or a 
party at the office.  These are all words that come to my mind when I think of worship 
assemblies here at Northside.  The same can be said of assemblies worldside.

I don't know how many times I have talked to children who love "church" at Northside.  They 
don't want to go home and would stay all day if their parents would let them.  And have you ever 
noticed how long families stay after services are over?  It is not unusual for some people to stay 
as long after services as they do during services.  Children can be found playing, adults talking, 
and friendships renews.  WHY?  Because Northside is a family of God that loves our Heavenly 
Father and in return loves one another.

I think that is what the Hebrew writer intended assemblies to be like when he wrote in Hebrews 
10:24-25, "And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.  
Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one 
another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching."  Church assemblies are truly a 
source of encouragement for so many who take advantage of them.

Have you been discouraged lately?  Felt as if no one cared and there was no place to fit in?  Why 
not plan to be at church next Sunday and linger a while after the closing prayer.  Not only will 
you be uplifted by worshiping God with a family of believers, but you'll also be encouraged by 
loving fellowship together.

I hope to see you in worship Sunday – if not in actual sight here at Northside… in spirit as you 
fellowship with saints at another congregation.

In His Service,
Leslie S. Chapman