As I wrote tonight of the love I'm experiencing in community, I'm reminded of a time when I was struggling. (just one other time)
I escaped out of the house and found myself on the way to a church close by. I was so hungry to hear from God, to sense His presence, to find peace. I sneaked in the back after the service had started, (I know, late again) and found a seat a little off to the side and in the back. I had let my shoulders drop, taken a big sigh and my eyes began to fill up with tears. Ahh, sweet love of God. At that moment, a woman came up, touched my shoulder and said, "Ma'am, you can't sit here". "Why?", I inquired. "We need everyone to sit in the middle section." I said, "Can I please just stay here?". "I'm sorry ma'am, you're not allowed to sit here." I stood up and walked quickly out, the tears streaming down my face.
What was going to be a healing time was stolen. I wasn't going to jam myself into a pew with 20 other people that night. I was too tender.
I hear of many people eschewing organized religion. I understand where they are coming from. I know that lady was just doing her job, but she missed the bigger picture. She forgot that the church is the people. She thought it was a well functioning service program with the pews filled properly. What a tragedy. The only redemption is that I'm glad it was me. I can separate the people from the message if necessary. But there are others who can't. I hope they are not herded and handled but are loved and healed just as I was when the back row was especially saved for me.
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