Surprise

Brydges Street church was full on Sunday. Apostle Susan was in town. She had taught classes the day before, told stories of her adventures and travels the previous evening, shared her testimony in the 10:00 a.m. hour, and now was the guest speaker for the morning communion service. At least one neighbouring church had closed for the day so their people could come and hear the Apostle speak. She did not disappoint.

She began by inviting the children to come and help. The children in this congregation are used to being fully included in worship, and I suspect Susan was surprised at how many came forward to help dramatize Isaiah's ancient vision of peace and cooperation. Suddenly the planned story was transformed as the lion became several lions, the wolf became wolves, the goat became goats and so on. It was magical.

There was something wonderful about this experience of a "gathered" community. Having the church all decorated for Christmas and filled with people expecting a good worship experience felt like something of a throwback to an earlier time. Somehow I found it a little surprising. Isn’t it interesting that we (or at least I) have grown accustomed to churches not being full any more and find it surprising when they are?

I also found myself surprised that one special guest can still draw a crowd. Even more significant in a wonderful way is that people invited friends to come and hear this special guest. Not only did they come, but they were glad they did. Folks reported having felt blessed by being present. Some of these were people who have not attended church in years. Some had moved on to other churches in search of something more fulfilling. Sadly that something had reportedly not been found elsewhere, and this special event drew them back again. Some apparently found themselves refreshed, renewed, and surprised. Remarkable!

I am not entirely sure what to make of this occurrence; I don't know if it is a one-time anomaly or a new trend, but I find it hopeful and encouraging. Christmas or not, I think we need to invite Apostle Susan to come as often as she can. And most of all, we need to continue to extend the invitation to others to come.

May you also be blessed with wonder and surprise, and may your Christmas heart be filled today.

Posted by Carman