This past Sunday, as I was greeting people before the 10 AM worship service, I noticed a strange thing: some people were not sitting where they usually sit in the sanctuary. In fact, some people even told me that they had been “told” to sit in different spots.
Now, a few weeks ago, I preached a sermon that included reference to those who sit on the “street side” of the sanctuary not really knowing those who sit on the “parking lot side” of the sanctuary. We then passed The Peace all around the room, giving folks a chance to meet and greet and pass The Peace of Christ to one another.
But, this past Sunday, something strange was going on! Not only were people not sitting where they normally sat, but some of them were quite content to do so! Of course, some people were not content – wondering why “their” pew was now occupied by someone else. I lovingly reminded one person about the Children’s Sermon, when two kings argued over the same people like children claim ownership of “their” toys. . . no sharing allowed!
It took me a while to get to the bottom of why people were not sitting in their usual spots. Apparently, a rogue Deacon had suggested this fun little activity on the last Sunday of Clergy Appreciation Month. Maybe an e-mail had been sent about this, without my knowledge. Maybe the ushers also reminded people to sit in different spots. Either way, it gave me a whole new perspective on how sometimes unpredictability can be a blessing (and a curse).
For the record, I am so thankful for the Clergy Recognition Month love and I loved the switcheroo last Sunday, but I acknowledge that not everyone did.
And, for the record, God doesn’t really care where you sit in church – just that you offer your best praise wherever you may be.
Four quick things:
1. This (and every) Sunday morning, you may sit anywhere you like – but please be gracious if someone is unknowingly sitting where you normally sit.
2. This Sunday evening at 5 PM, we will be holding a Rise Against Hunger event in the Fellowship Hall. We will be packing 10,000 meals for hungry people (Yes! 10,000!) using an assembly line method. It is a whole lot of fun and it’s for a good cause. You are more than welcome to come and help!
3. This week, you should be receiving our annual Stewardship brochure and information. I invite you to prayerfully consider your financial gift to BPC for 2024. It’s going to be a great year – our church’s 275th year!
4. Next Sunday, November 12, is COMMITMENT SUNDAY and we are also doing a COAT DRIVE. Bring your Commitment Card to church and also bring a used or new coat that you would like to donate to Families in Transition to help some of our neighbors stay warm through the winter months.
There is a LOT going on at BPC! See you soon!
Grace and Peace,
John
Prepare for Worship
This Week: God Will Show Up – Generous Faith: A Reflection of God’s Heart # 3
- Read Psalm 27
- Read 1 Kings 18:20-39
- Read or sing Hymn # 326 – “For All the Saints”