
I’d like to work church into my life, but . . .
Church isn’t a standing engagement in my busy schedule. I’ve given up something else to be here today, whether it’s sleep, friends, a sporting event, or a community fundraiser. I don’t need another thing in the schedule. But, as busy as I am, something’s still missing in my life. I don’t know if it’s church or not, but it might be. So I’m coming to see if it is.
Here’s what will be on my mind when I visit:
- Church people think they know everything and have it all together, but that’s not the world I live in. I’m looking for some common ground.
- I’m not like my parents or grandparents. I’m not interested in belonging to a social club, attending meetings, and going to potluck dinners.
- I want you to notice me and to leave me alone. I expect a warm welcome and introduction, but not an immediate hook-up. I’m a person, not a project.
- Being a spouse/parent is a lot harder than I thought. I could use some help, but I’m not helpless.
- I’m crazy busy and will have to try to fit church/God in around the edges of my life.
- My life is complicated and complex, and I’m not expecting easy answers.
- I want to know about God and Jesus. That’s what I’m coming for – a close and personal interaction.
- I don’t need another drain on my time and energy. I’m looking for a recharge.
- I want to understand your story before I’ll feel comfortable telling you mine.
Now, don’t be nervous about seeing me. I’m not coming to your church to criticize it; I’m coming to see if we can be a good fit together. I know you won’t have all of the answers to all of my questions. I hope you will accept me as I am.
* David Bridgman has been senior pastor at Faith Community United Methodist Church, West Chester, OH, since 1997. A graduate of Otterbein College and Asbury Theological Seminary, David has guided the congregation from a single style of worship with a weekly average of about 300, to multiple worship services and styles, and in multiple locations, currently averaging over 900 in worship.
Reba Collins is an author, blogger, and consultant who develops resources for church searchers as the focus of her lay ministry, The Church Guide (www.thechurchguide.net). She received her BA degree in International Relations from William Jewell College, and her M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from Vanderbilt University. She has worked in adult ministry in churches, and in organizational leadership at colleges and universities.
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