A couple of months ago, my dad and I had a rather interesting discussion about passing the peace in church. Who really sees you as they shake your hand? The eyes are the window to the soul. So if you don't look at their face, how will you truly pass God's peace?
I decided to do an experiment. I've been attending a new church in the Mt. Juliet area. This past weekend was probably the best time to try this since Severn and Miranda were in Corpus Christi with their grandparents. Mike was working. How many people would actually see me?
I came into the church at the beginning of the service. It started late since everyone was still in fellowship - good to know, right? Especially since this was my 4th or 5th time to visit. There weren't a lot of people in church - I imagine it was due to the holiday weekend. The songs were sang and the pastor had a great message.
"The peace of the Lord be with you all." It was time. I turned to the family behind me. Their 15 year old daughter looked me in the eyes and smiled. She saw me!! Same for the dad and the mom - I felt as if I struck gold!! But then that feeling of belonging rapidly began to dissipate. Hands were clasped, but eyes slid over and past me. Don't you see me? I wanted to ask. I could be hurting here!! But they were moving around the church quickly greeting their friends and loved ones. I shook hands with a few other souls, attempting to make eye contact. No luck. Another lady came up to me and introduced herself while shaking my hand. But my feelings were already hurt, to be completely honest. It's hard to maintain objectivity when one uses oneself as an experiment, you know.
Four out of about 40 people acknowledged me sitting there, alone.
It isn't ever easy to be the new kid on the block. It doesn't matter whether it's work, church, or school. But I'm glad I tried - and I'll try again next Sunday. Because I've learned it is very easy to get comfortable - and we all know that comfort is the enemy of achievement (not my quote). But if I were to maintain my current level of comfort, I would probably miss some great people and perhaps some great friendships.
You know that first family that I turned to with the 15 year old daughter? The mom asked if I had plans that afternoon. She didn't like the idea of me being alone. She saw me and my need. And that is truly God's peace.
