Sunday Flashback

It was a great Sunday for lots of reasons. But I want to share one story from yesterday.

After one of the gatherings I was introduced to Butch. He's a young man from Ohio who is "special" in many ways. I wish we could keep him here.

Butch couldn't wait to tell me about his church, Hudson Community Chapel, and Pastor Joe. Obviously he is in love with the family of believers of which I suspect he is an intgral part. He gave me some printed info on the church; he told me when they meet for worship and let me know that Pastor Joe's sermons can be heard online in case I needed some help! (I love transparent people!)

I'll tell you this: If I lived in Hudson, OH, and met Butch on the street somewhere I would have to check out his church. It brought him (and me) great joy to tell me about what is so important in his life.

The truth, however is that in many environments Butch might not be taken very seriously. In a lot of places Butch might be overlooked because of some of his challenges. Some people might not think Butch has much to offer. There are some in our country who would even imply that perhaps Butch shouldn't have been born.

But I wish I could bottle what Butch has and give it away to everyone in our congregation. Why is it that so many of us with less difficulties find it almost foreign to share our joy and faith and exuberance with others without fear of rejection or failure? How can we possess all that comes with the salvation package yet not be overflowing with it?

I know the answer. It's because we are still wrapped up in ourselves. We're more motivated by what others think about us than what Jesus thinks. We think we're not qualified to share our story. We're full of excuses, aren't we?

Thanks Butch for being free to tell. How I wish that I could capture a little of what you have, for you have so very much. And great things are ahead in your future. What an ambassador you are!