service, we decided we would check out the beach
at Ponte Vedra, where some of our proton friends live (who also happen to attend the same church).
We followed them to their house for lunch, then we all headed for the beach, the closest access just a mile or so down the road. Their condo is located in an area a bit different from the area we live in, i.e the hood. From their great room, they overlook one of the fairways on the Players Golf Course, the course on which the Players Tournament is played. Not bad! Being the sun dog that I am, we only spent an hour or so on the beach, but thoroughly enjoyed it. Then back to their place for more food and fellowship!
At church today, something happened that really got me thinking. As the service was almost ready to start, a group of late teen/early twenties folks came in, "kids" who looked as though they might live on the street. It turned out they were a variation on that theme - at the moment, they were "camping" on the beach. When they came in my attention was drawn to one thing. Clearly they felt out of place, their body language almost saying they felt ashamed, guilty, or somehow were the wrong people in the right place. Though folks around them were very cordial and inviting, something was going on underneath the surface.
After the service I spoke with one of them, a young girl whose face and body has been leathered by too much time in the sun. When I opened the conversation by saying "hi, how you doing," she immediately told me that even though her brother had been busted last night for alcohol, she and her friends were still believers in process. They just weren't perfect yet. We chatted for a few more minutes, then she left to get some snacks and sit with her friend. But that encounter really started me thinking. As believers, how welcoming are we? How does someone who might not otherwise "fit in" feel when he strolls into our fellowship? Does he feel guilty, as if he has to confess something? Does he feel encouraged, even though his life might not be where he'd like it to be? What kind of fragrance do we give off?
I'm still thinking about that. I probably will for awhile. It was great to go to church, great to go to the beach, and great to meet somebody else who loves the Lord and is "in process." Aren't we all?
Treatment #12 at 11:15 am tomorrow! PTL!
Be blessed and be a blessing,
Bill
4 comments:
Love the picture. I sent you a joke via e-mail...I know you get a hundred a day, but check it out. You two are so adaptable I'm afraid you'll end up being snowbirds or something. Yesterday's service was great. I sat with a person who tithed for the very FIRST time. The Lord is working throughout the body!
I see the "others" come into the church as well...and I'm always convicted that at one time I was one myself :) Love to you, Sharon
HEY Pastor Bill! This is Katie Boyle from Our church! I just wanted you to know Im so excited everything is going well for you and Betty. We've been praying for you alot!! That picture of that house is CRAZY and soo weird..I never knew they did anything like that..hahaha Well, anywho things are great here. The weather is pretty and WARM! We all miss you lots.. MAKE TODAY A GREAT DAY!!
What a great way to communicate. It is wonderful to have up to date information on how you are and what you are doing in JAX. Glad to learn you so quickly connected with a fellowship, are making new friends and getting involved.
We all need to think about your comments regarding accepting those that "don't fit the mold". Wonder where Calvary Chapel would be today if Chuck hadn't accepted the barefoot, dirty hippies back in the 60s? (Think this is the makings for some new teaching when you get back)
Dick is busy mustering his creative juices to come up with something for "heron lake". Perhaps he will have a blueprint by the time you return...hmmmm. Don McClure gave a thought provoking message yesterday. Interesting to learn we have some medical experiences in common. Hugs to y'all.
Pastor Bill and Betty, thank you both for your blog. It's nice to know how you are doing with you so far away. Summer is in full swing here at home and you can tell by the VBS craziness that is going on. You would love it... so many people giving of their time and talents to make this time so special for the kids. You would be so proud. I can't wait until you are back. I am praying for a complete and speedy recovery for both you and Betty (I miss my writing pal). I'll be checking your blog to see how things go... and by the way, happy birthday, pastor Bill. we love you very much. -- Genine Wilson
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