week 6, post 1

A CHURCHLESS CHRISTIAN?
Those of us who routinely participate in a faith community often hear those who don't proclaim that they can be believers just fine without all the time and trouble of a "church". Fine for them. But it's not true for me. I went home for Christmas. As I attended Christmas eve and Christmas day services, I was approached by many who are aware of where I am and what I'm doing. Their interest and encouragement meant a great deal to me. I'm not here alone, or just for me. I'm here on their behalf -- doing what they can't. I am indeed "surrounded by a great cloud of saints/witnesses." Following the Way of the Cross is not just believing this or that -- it's a life of risk, sacrifice, controversy, endurance. One church member, an old woman with a bright, strong spirit and a failing body came up to me and said, "I'm so proud of you. I know you're doing a good thing." She will never know how much that means to me -- for the times when my body is strong and my spirit failing. I can't let her down. Others may speak for themselves, but a solitary Christianity would leave me drifting back into safety, passivity, conventionality, mediocrity -- just "believing."

I traveled today down Bayou Lafourche to Grand Isle. The community was terribly battered by both hurricanes (I will post pictures soon). I met with a pastor there and we continued to design the ministry in that area -- not only counseling, but teaching as well. We intend to involve all three churches on the island -- Roman Catholic, Methodist and Southern Baptist. In front of the restaurant at noon, I met and talked with the husband of a woman I had met on my first visit the 2nd week of December. At that time, she had worked 16+ hours each day without a day off since Aug 27. I had asked her what she needed most. She replied that she and her husband needed to get away; if they were there, they would keep working. I reported this to the pastor here at Grace Lutheran. She called this evening. I connected her to the pastor, and a check will soon be on the way to give them respite. I am so pleased to be an instrument of peace and healing. The true meaning of priesthood is to stand between those in need and the love which meets that need, making sure the connections happen. Success.

Down at Grand Isle, I took a little time to walk the beach. I asked myself why I hadn't brought a bag, so I could pick up all the shells and other interesting artifacts and bring them home. Then it occurred to me; that's precisely why I hadn't brought a bag -- because I'd pick it all up and bring it home!!

One final note: A Cajun woman gave me this advice: if biting insects are bothering your neck and face, put a cling free sheet (the more perfume the better) under your hat (or let it drape down as a neck cape). It works.

Peace, Warren.