Where else would I go?

 John 6: 66 - 68

From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?

Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

That was another scripture that was quoted.

It is one that I had thought of before. Its primary resonance for me had been thinking of that time between crucifixion and resurrection and how awful that must have been for the apostles. 

Where would we go? A good answer was coming, but they didn't know it yet.

Mariann Budde used it in reference to commitment (which honestly makes more sense); this is where I have found truth, therefore this is where I will stay.

Surprisingly, I was asked recently why I still go to church. It was not a challenge, but had risen up in a discussion about other people who had stopped.

I go because I believe it is true.

This is where I get the knowledge that inspires the faith and the hope and the charity.

I am very aware of the imperfections of others who go. 

I have sympathy for those who have been hurt by those imperfections. 

Part of my hope is that we are going to become better together, but I am not basing my attendance on anyone else who is there or not there.

I have been thinking lately about whether that means I should start thinking about doing missionary work again, and I am not sure how that will work.

I get joy and help from the things I know. I believe other people could too. There may be obstacles to being comfortable committing to any church, especially with that imperfect people part.

Also, I once wrote that if I ever feel like it damages my integrity to stay in the church, that leaving was on the table. That is still true.

With all of that being said, I am still here, and feel good about being here. 

 I can give that affirmation of faith.