Are you one of the "rich". If you have a computer or smartphone and are reading this, you probably are.
We often think of rich people as "the other guy". But when evaluating whether or not we are rich, we have to look at the world as a whole. Most of us in the Western world and in other developed countries would be classified as "rich".
Jesus said, When much has been given a man, much will be required of him. More will be asked of a man to whom more has been entrusted. Luke 12:48b
One of the reasons God blesses some people so abundantly is so we can take care of others. The poor do not have the means to help others; or the time and energy. Their lives must be focused on providing food, clothing and shelter for themselves and their families. Let's examine our lives to see if we are sharing our material blessings with those who are not so fortunate. It's not just a nice thing to do--it's what God asks of us.
Not attending church on Sundays (or Saturday evenings if your church has that option) is like always emailing someone, but never meeting them in person (like in the movie "You've Got Mail". When asked why they don't attend weekend church services, many people say, "Oh, we pray at home." Or "I don't need to go to church (or to be a member of a church); my faith is just between me and God (or me and Jesus)."
When we gather to pray with others, Jesus said He will be with us. Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst. Matthew 18:20.
St. Paul says in Hebrews: We should not absent ourselves from the assembly, as some do, but encourage one another;... (10:25)
Reading the New Testament shows us that Jesus came to establish a church, not just individual people with a personal relationship with Jesus.
I for my part declare to you, you are 'Rock,' and on this rock I will build my church,... Matthew 16:18. Also, Matt 18:17, Acts 2:47, Acts 5:11, Acts 8:1, Acts 8:3, Acts 11:26, etc., etc. The church is "a congregation gathered for public divine worship", not each individual just praying by themselves.
For those who have the Eucharist at their church services (the real body and blood of Jesus), gathering together to celebrate the Eucharist is a real flesh and blood meeting with Jesus, rather than just a spiritual one. For those who have commemorative Communion services, the Presence of the Lord is still just spiritual, but with a much deeper presence than a person would experience by themselves.
Another reason to attend church with others on Sundays is that God commanded us to "Keep holy the Sabbath day." (Exodus 20:8) This is not just a church rule or a suggestion, but a commandment given by God. Jesus said: If you want to enter (eternal) life, obey the commandments." Matthew 19:17.
We will all stand before God one day and be judged according to how we lived our lives on earth. (Matthew 25:31) Even if we are saved, our behavior will still be judged. If you were to die today, how do you think God judge you?
