The South New Hope Church in Amherst Junction, WI. Image courtesy: WAOW TV
CONLEY COMMENTARY (WSAU) – Last week I suggested that God doesn’t sweat the small stuff. That which hymns we sing, or whether we stand of sit at certain times during church probably doesn’t matter. The fundamentals of the faith matter. Christ as the living son of God, forgiveness in his sacrifice on the cross, the promise of eternal life in him. Those are critical. I contend that the rest is just stuff.
Well, not everyone agrees. I received a note from a listener who asked who am I to tell her what is and isn’t important about the way she practices her faith. She said that she’s not a fan of me hosting the morning show, and would rather dig out her eardrums than listen to another of these commentaries. Ma’am, the on and off button is a better choice.
I would be the first to say this is unusual content for a non-religious radio station. Somehow we’ve been told that people don’t talk about faith in public. I would also point out that these Friday on Faith segments are the most downloaded, most streamed, most-listened-to content that I create. For me my faith is impossibly intertwined with who I am. I don’t think I could not talk about it.
The whole idea behind Friday on Faith is to gently prompt you to think about your own faith. It’s a religious segment intended for people who may not necessarily be religious. There are probably many in the audience who have some vague acknowledgement of God that hasn’t grown into a full, robust faith.
If that’s you, I’d like to invite you to church this weekend. Actually, feel free to go to any church you wish. If you’re unsure where, I’m the preacher this weekend at my home church, The Cross on Schofield Avenue, this Sunday at 10am. My pastor and our associate pastor are both away this weekend, so you may not get a chance to hear me in this role for a long time.
There is something powerful about gathering with others for worship. Our faith is strengthened when we gather with other believers. Give it a try this weekend. If you do, I hope it will be a rich and meaningful experience for you.
Chris Conley
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