Balance

[The Lemon]

O.K. - I usually try very hard to write at least semi-intelligentely on this forum, as well as try to be as objective and open as I can be with regards to the diversity here. With that said, I wanted to bounce a scenario and some questions around the forum and would be glad to read the responses.

First, let me say that I have been a part of the UPCI for nearly 20yrs, 14 of which have been in pretty much every ministry in the church. Having said that, I have been part and parcel to the church structure and have seen many noble and good things, but conversely, I have also seen alot of "busyness" as well.

SOOOOO - the question is, in your opinion, what is balance in regards to church, involvement in church, as well as various ministries (be that Sunday School, mowing, cleaning...etc.) The point of view that this question is from is that of balancing with regards to family, work responsibility and etc.

I am asking this for a number of reasons, but I suppose the greatest reason is that in my experience I have seen chock full calendars, programs, fund-raisers and etc. and in the day we live it just seems difficult at best to spread the time out efficientely and effectively - but maybe I am missing something??

I know the goal is relationship with Jesus and of course hearing the words "well done". It just seems that with regards to relationship to Him as well as brothers and sisters in Christ, we are very much performanced based. I hear alot about grace and mercy as well as patience, but I also hear alot about the "work of God" and especially with regards to ones salvation (or lack thereof) based on the activity level in the "church".

What is your take on this...I am interested in reading the responses....