Well, the day finally came.  Helene and I are now officially “empty nesters.”  Our youngest graduated from college and has packed up and moved to another state.  She isn’t coming back at the end of the semester like every time before.  This time, she packed up her room.  Posters gone, clothes gone, mementos gone, 6 bags of trash were added to our garbage can!

I have had far too many discussions with people about why they don’t need to be part of a church.  “I get what I need from the internet or TV” “I love Jesus, but I don’t like church” “I am part of a great online community and that meets my needs.” Those are just a sampling of comments I have heard the last few years.  Now, the trend is moving toward what’s called “Virtual Church.”  They are saying churches should live stream their worship services and have forums for people to engage online as a supplement to the physical location and group of people who come together.

That all sound good until you need a physical touch; a hug of assurance, and encouraging arm around your shoulder, weeping eyes of someone willing to hold your hand and weep with you.