Live Stream’

When one is near my age, “live stream” means a creek that is moving quickly or filled with fish or both. Now the Church I attend has began a “live stream” of the Sunday morning service. What will they think of next?

I suppose that is a good thing for those who want to sleep late, sit in a recliner, and watch the service from home. It is also good for those who are incapable of getting to the facilities. We have some in assisted living facilities, and other group gatherings, and we certainly don’t want to leave them without the opportunity to see what is going on at “Church.”

I fear that it may become an encouragement for some to stop making an effort to gather with the Body as we are commanded to do by God’s Word (see Hebrews 10:25). It is much easier to be lazy, or believe that we are being obedient because we have watched (from afar) the gathering of God’s family. That must not be the case. We can only practice the disciplines of llove, encourage one another personally, and intertwine our lives together when we meet face to face. Sharing the good news is best accomplished “eye to eye.” Being able to ask questions, and seek counsel is just not a part of the “live stream.”

And there is another problem. . . . The preacher is just not a handsome fellow. Could be some people who have never attended will be “turned off” by that reality. His llove for others helps cover up the “looks” when we are “face to face.”

Oh well. We can’t all have a tall, young, hansom, hunk.