Rev. Will Willimon (Biblical scholar) told this story:
In a heated confrontation with one of my parishioners after my sermon, I finally said, “I’m not going to continue to argue with you, George, I’ll never persuade you.”
George replied, “Humph. Glad that our Lord didn’t have your attitude. Never saw Jesus back down from an argument. If I’m wrong, seems like you would want to convert me.” Ouch.
(Disciplines, 2024)
I love the way God speaks to me as I spend time with my morning meditation and prayer. This past week, I’ve been thinking about my gnawing desire for my close-by family to want to attend church with me. For some reason, this year, I want desperately to say something to them, but I’m afraid. Will I drive them away? And so Rev. Willimon’s story hit home.
Jesus went to Jerusalem for Passover. Why? He knew it was dangerous. His humanity must have been frightened. He wouldn’t have gone if it was just his habit or was expected of him as a devout Jew. As we read the stories of Jesus, like George, we know that Jesus faced trouble and disagreement head on. Following Jesus is a tough road at times, especially when it comes to our families in today’s world. We need to remember Jesus’ Resurrection we just celebrated. God is with us.
Grandparents ask if my children’s books are very religious. “My children are against faith, or church, or God,” they say.
My answer: “Spectacular Stella and Elizabeth Gets Her Wings talk the most about God. Rajah Finds His Wisdom mostly deals with bullying. A Place Called Home deals with the issue of homelessness. It’s not about God at all.”
This week, God and I will have many conversations. How do I talk about my desire for my family? What do I say? They know the whole journey is important to me. They accept my saying, “I’ll pray for you,” when they face exams, or a job interview, or any challenge. Some even thank me. I don’t want to turn them off entirely. I know they live as Jesus taught. They care for others, big time, in so many ways. Isn’t that enough? Why do I so desperately want them to come to church?
As part of this discussion, I offer you my readers this question. What do we receive at church that we can’t get anywhere else? What is the value of being part of a church family? If you are a church goer, please send me your answers. If you’re a non-church person, like so many today, what keeps you from being part of a church family? My email is revjanetstobie@gmail.com or hit “contact me” on www.janetstobie.com stobie.com. Your answer is important to me. Thank you.
Today’s Faith by Rev. Janet Stobie
