In our tradition like most
churches, we have groups of great influence and power. It does not take long to find them. They usually find you especially when you
cross a line. You know you move
something that has never been moved. You
change something and are quickly told, “It has ALWAYS been ….” I have maintained that the most powerful
person in a worship service is the organist.
Just imagine what havoc this person can play in one hour!
So I am hanging out with one of
the groups of great influence and power—the UMW. For those who are not Methodist, it is not
the United Mine Workers. It is the
United Methodist Women. If you want to
meet and greet power and influence in most congregations, just stroll into the
women’s den. I once heard of a pastor
who had the choice of confronting the women on an issue or having two root
canals. The root canals were a piece of
cake.
This week we are learning
together. They are being nice to
me! We are learning about a group of
people in Europe called “The Roma”.
Maybe you know another name for this group of people—gypsies. The study is inviting us to learn about the
uniqueness and struggles. I must admit
that I have learned much.
I have learned that I live a
pretty insulated life. Most church folks
do. Most of us in this world pretty much
insulate ourselves. We tend to keep the
“edgy” folks pretty far away. It is a
safety and comfort mechanism in life.
After all “they” might harm us or challenge our world views.
I feel a sense of shame about
this when I look at the life of Jesus.
Jesus was all about hanging out with people on the edges of life. Jesus was all about going to find where
people were hurting. Jesus was condemned
by the religious folk for hanging out with sinners and tax collectors. Maybe I am afraid that if I am seen in the
wrong place with the wrong people, I might be condemned as well.
So I am listening to God in these
moments about removing some of the insulation from my life. I realize that in removing insulation, I am
going to be vulnerable to the elements.
But I need to remember that in my vulnerability, I am safe forever. Jesus has done that for me. I do not need to be afraid. I just need to go!
I can just hear the talk
beginning….”that preacher….”
Pray for me as I pray for you.
Jack O’Dell
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