While we were “home” this past weekend, we had the opportunity to visit our “sending” church — Trinity Wesleyan in Allentown, PA. I had a chance to play with the worship team and sing for offering. I sang Chris Tomlin’s “Amazing Grace (My Chains Are Gone) with just my guitar. Even though there were quite a few on vacation, we still got to meet some old friends. It was good to reconnect with Cindy, Bruce, and Chris.

They are currently in a series on choices and children’s pastor Brenda Smith preached on Choosing My Family. As part of the sermon she shared this top ten list. We need to choose to put God first. Here are the top 10 ways to make sure church has very little influence in your kid’s lives.

10. Schedule personal or family events to conflict with church services and activities.
9. Don’t get to close to anyone in church. Refrain from developing relationships with Christians lest your children learn the joy and benefits of fellowship with other believers.
8. Look often at your watch during worship and complain bitterly, look annoyed, or freak out when church lasts longer than you think it should.
7. Tithe and financiall support your church and it missions with the same enthusiansm you pay taxes.
6. Do the best you can to make sure the kids arrive on time to soccer lessons and school events, but don’t worry if the miss or are late to church.
5. Bring your family to church only when a.) you have nothing better to do; b.) you have a personal need; c.) you feel really guilty.
4. Don’t volunteer for anything or make any kind of long term committment at church. Remember, you got to keep your options open to do things that are more important.
3. Change churches every few years.
2. Remind your kids how imperfect your church leaders are and regularly point out their mistakes.
1. And whatever you do, don’t let church influence the way you live your life.

Something interestin to think about.