Nostalgia is defined as a sentimental longing or affection for the past, typically for a period or place with happy personal associations.

The older you get, the more places you have that create feelings of nostalgia. For many people, one of those places is the Church. It gives us fond memories of our grandparents or parents as we think about their lives and faith.

One sad side effect of this is that people get attached to buildings, pews, decorations, and instruments. They do not want to change anything for fear of losing those pleasant old feelings.

The challenge is that the Church should not look back but rather look ahead. Instead of focusing on warm feelings about old times, how about we create a place that our children and grandchildren will love? Rather than clutching tightly to outdated tools, why don’t we grab ahold of new tools so that the next generation will be engaged at our gatherings?

I am happy that my grandparents and parents left me a legacy of faith. I know it was a battle for them to cling to Jesus with a community of believers. But holding onto nostalgic feelings will only make me feel good momentarily. My children and grandchildren knowing Jesus will produce good feelings for eternity.