they made idols

First Reading: Psalm: Gospel:

Hosea 8:4-7, 11-13 Psalm 115:3-10 Matthew 9:32-38

Hosea 8:4  They made kings, but not through me. They set up princes, but without my knowledge. With their silver and gold they made idols for their own destruction.

This is a troubling situation.  Today we have many churches that I honestly have to question if they are from God or if they are idols made with silver and gold.  No, don't get me wrong, I am not saying that Christians can't have wealth, but when you see a majority of expensive cars and SUVs driving into the church parking lot on Sunday you have to wonder.  Then when you see that much of what they do there is to satisfy their own congregation with comfort and quality sound etc...

Jesus started a church 2000 years ago.  He sent out his Apostles and empowered them with this task.  The question today is how is the church authenticated?  How do we know if we are in the church of God or the church of idols?

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to seek your truth and your righteousness.  Help me to discern what is right and proper and to understand where and how your church lives today.

Amen