In a world where life is difficult, and sometimes downright scary, it can be tempting to think of the church as a refuge and a hideout. Indeed, we often speak of it that way. “Our shelter from the stormy blast,” we’ll say—meaning that the church is a place where we can escape from the troubles of the world, and finally feel safe and secure.

No matter how much chaos is swirling around us, we can always retreat to the church and find comfort in the everlasting company of God. We can listen to the old, familiar stories, and take solace in the sacred rituals that have been repeated, generation after generation.

Of course, the problem with this image of the church is that, if we are not careful, it can lull us into believing that we are merely consumers of God’s love. And the truth of the matter is that we were never asked to be consumers. From the very first time that Jesus called out to Simon and Andrew and invited them to become “fishers of people,” our primary role, as disciples, has been that of being providers of God’s love.

This is not to suggest that what takes place within the church is unimportant. Obviously, there is great value in being able to come together as God’s people and offer our prayers and praise. But the true work of the church has always been out there—in the world!

After all, Jesus never said, “Wait, therefore, within the safe confines of your sanctuary, until prospective disciples come to you.” He said, “Go, therefore, into all the world and make disciples.”