Sunday I am scrunched down in my plush aisle seat, stage left, a bit closer to the front of the theater than usual. My placement is strategic. The first several rows of the Lucas tend to be sparsely populated; this morning is no exception. My husband is on the road. After an already action packed morning, Gray is situated in the balcony for children's church, and in the middle of this crowd, I am looking for some time alone with God.
We stand as the band begins to play. Being this close to the speakers helps me get lost in the music. Certain lyrics hit so close to home, I cannot give them voice. I pray silently while others sing, Oh You fill those who are empty and rescue those in the valley... My life's story proves the truth of these words. I have friends who are in that awful empty place right now, others in the valley. Far from Savannah, they are with me in the music. We are united. Church is not bound by walls.
The format at latechurch varies from week to week. This morning, while I'm still lost in the glow of worship, volunteers come forward to pass the silver trays of bread and juice: the Lord's Supper. Being so close to the front, on the aisle, and the only citizen of my particular row, it makes sense that the server assigned to my section—my friend Bruce—gives me special attention. Still though I am surprised when he bows a bit, offering the tray. He smiles. "Now this is my pleasure: serving you!"
In a blink he is gone. Every ounce of me, inside and out, is moved by his words. This is the gospel in action. Bruce, a former crack head (self-proclaimed), Jewish, is a fairly new believer. We are pals. I pray for him, and he knows it. In fact, he notices when I'm having a down week, and returns the favor. Bruce looks out for me, as a big brother should. And now, on top of that, he is serving me. I feel regal—and yet, simultaneously, humbled. God rewards my search for time alone with him, with the gift of interaction. Through a simple act of service, two seeking souls are united to God, and to one another.
This is what church should be.
If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection. ~ Romans 6:5
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Such a beautiful act of love and worship, Catherine. What a joy to read this.
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Pam
A beautiful moment and a beautiful piece of writing.
ReplyDeletem
Nothing more powerful than simple words and actions which reflect Christ! Thanks for sharing this very intimate moment in you worship experience...I feel that I was right there too! Blessings!
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