I go to to Faith Church, it feel so much like home for so many reasons. It took me a while to feel like this, not because I had to get accumulated, but I think it takes give and take. I had to learn to open my heart each time I went into service. “Feel the love” so to speak. This morning was just especially moving. This is why I love our church community family. I have been attending over two years. I’d say that I’ve been more social in the last year. Ahem, for those that don’t know me, I’m pretty outgoing… some would say at times over the top. But in the church or any religious setting I was quite reserved or guarded. See, I can’t answer your questions about what the Bible says, what happened when or to who. I just know what I know. Sounds funny but it’s true. I’m still learning all I can.
The new website looks fab – went to get an image – good job peeps!
So this morning, there is somewhat of a light attendance, I’m sure due to the holiday weekend. Our music team (ok I know there is a term for the ministry of music, just can’t think of it.. oh wait.. praise team - got it!) was a bit confused. Here is what I loved about the lead guy. (Still learning names)He just basically said, hey we’re here and we are just gonna let God lead. Totally humbling. This praise team seemed to refer to themselves as being “hodge podge” but I couldn’t help but smile from ear to ear! I was so happy to be amongst this “hodge podge” group. There was a gentleman with a banjo. He looked amazingly in shape, seemed to be in his retirement years. I just wanted to get to know him. Something about him is intriguing. I think he might have a story I’d love to hear. I might even want to know how he landed at Faith, or what he did for a living or his favorite memory.
During the praise time, that’s what I felt. I want to know others. I think I could feel my heart starting to love ALL my neighbors, as God tells me to do.
I could give you so many examples of very humbling experiences with my church family. I used to see Pastors and church “officials” as unapproachable. I’ve been able to talk to them and even give them unsolicited feedback (it’s part of my outgoing nature). They were quite nice about it.
So I had a joyous day at church. However, I learned something about myself that I don’t think I could have prepared for! I’ve become the most patient woman on the planet (at least for today).
The sad part of my “religious” life is that I don’t share it with my dad. I’m still praying for him. He is not a believer. Last week after a small bump at my parents house, I thought about whether I should try to reach out to my dad. Unfortunately at this time, I want to make sure my children still have a grandfather. I know that any attempt would most likely end up in a very bad situation. Trust me, it’s true!
This evening, my children returned home from a week with the grandparents filled with good stories of the zoo, playing in the pool and movies. My dad noticed my necklace, which today is a cross. I’ve been wanting one for years. My husband gave it to me for Christmas two years ago. There are two other charms that have sapphires embedded in them. This signifys my daughters, both birthstones for September. He knew that through my children I have come to know Jesus. It’s quite amazing what children can do.
My dad made a few comments about not believing and … well asked me to remove my necklace. Normally, I’d probably would have lashed out and said something like “this is my house, get out and don’t come back”! Throw in some um choice words too. Oh wait, I did that already! However, I calmly took off the necklace and said, please know that next time I will not follow your demands of me. I did it to appease him. I didn’t want to cause any trouble as my children had just arrived 20 minutes earlier.
Reflecting on my situation and my day. I am so glad that Faith is where I learn and grow as I walk with God. I firmly believe the lessons I have learned from the people, the service, along with the desire to dig into the Bible has allowed me to be a better person.
(photo credit: RebelBlueAngel)
Do you have a family member challenging your faith? How do you deal with it? Have you dealt with it?
Filed under: Church/Religion/Faith, My View | Tagged: Church, faith
