by Jed Estrada

Theodore Roosevelt once said, “It is not the critic who counts, not the man who points out how the strong man stumbled, or where the doer of deeds could have done better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly, … and spends himself in a worthy cause.” They say a critic has an easy job, that he can spend his time building nothing, and still make a livving in the profitable field of breaking down the creations of others. The church is one organization that is probably criticized more than any organization in this country, besides the government. This may likely be that because the church has the great commission to be the light in the world, and one can always find something else that it could be doing… or not be doing. But as necessary or useful even constructive criticism can be, it is always greater to point out achievements, and success. In that standpoint, I believe it is extremely noteworthy to mention what the church is doing right. 

The Christian community in Elmira is extremely vibrant, and has been increasingly active in the past few years. Many churches organize street ministries, or open their doors to the community in a variety edifying and educational programs. Probably the biggest example of church activity was the Let Elmira Live rally last May, in which more than 10 churches sent volunteers, and supported the ministry. But it wasn’t just a week long project that ended with the final rally at the Elmira Christian Center, it was the beginning of a greater movement of the churches within Elmira. On August 12th, I sat in on a meeting of several churches discussing the success of Let Elmira Live, and how they were following up with the people who had become saved through it. One lady told of how their church sent a group to Hawthorn Court, and the kids came running out asking, “Are you from the Elmira Christian Center?” It struck me that it is an incredible thing that the community recognizes the church’s involvement, and even looks forward to it coming to into the neighborhood. 

Another example of the way the community sees the church took place two weeks ago at the Living Word Evangelical Free church on Lake street, not far from Pigeon Point. Some kids were playing in the church park, and began to break a window on the shed with rocks. The other kids called the youth Pastor, Mark Walker, who lived down the street. When Mr. Walker arrived, he found the adults from the neighborhood stopping the kids, and scolding them. “This is God’s house” said one parent, “and you don’t treat it this way.” The interesting thing here is the sense of ownership that the parents in the neighborhood have for the church property. Even though they don’t attend church, they recognize it’s presence, and feel the duty to protect it. Living Word reaches out to the kids in the community with Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and a 5 Day Club ministry at the Walker’s house. The kid’s parents have even come to church picnics on occasion. This builds a trust, and a mutual connection with the neighborhood, and is great way for the church to gain respect in the community. When parents see how the church takes their kids in, and shows them love, and teaches them, it shows the parents that the church is part of the social structure. “We see it as an opportunity to get close to them” said Mr. Walker. “You can’t force the issue, but when they open their hearts then there is an opportunity to share God’s love.” 

The Bible tells us that we are the salt of the earth, and to let our light shine among men. Not merely a salt that adds spice, but as a cleansing, and preserving component. And not just a light so the world can see our works, but a light that shines the way to Christ, who is the Light of the world. A church that is built on this firm foundation is one which Jesus tells us in Matthew 16:18 that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against.” I am encouraged to see a generation growing in churches that recognizes their responsibility in the community, and a generation in the community that respects the role of the church. I firmly believe with many other Christians in this city that if we persevere with Faith and Hope, that a revival is truly possible in our land.