June 28, 2010

• She entered late and sat next to me.  The speaker said “Revelations” and I noticed that she was flipping to try and find it in the Bible.  I thought… hmmm… doesn’t everyone who’s at church know where “Revelations” is?  In case you didn’t, it’s the last book of the Bible, where all the crazy stuff happens.  White horses and singing oxen with six wings over their eyes. 

  Then it came time for communion.  They passed out the bread and the wine and then she tapped me on the shoulder asking if something’s going to happen.  She had eaten the unleavened bread already, but didn’t drink the wine, noticing that everyone was waiting. 

  I’m sure other people around me were wondering why I was talking.  I tried my best to do a quick explanation… “Yes, I think he’s going to dedicate/pray for the wine/bread.  The time inbetween they allow for some reflection.”

  As service was nearing an end I thought, “If she doesn’t leave early, maybe I should explain a little more to her.”  Service ended and I gathered my stuff and was about to stand up and then opened my mouth. 

  I told her about how bread signifies Christ’s sacrifice on the cross and wine (Welch’s Grape Juice) signifies Christ’s blood that washes away our sins.  Also explained to her how traditional born again churches do communion about once a month whereas this church was a little more open, usuallly allowing you to do communion when you felt it necessary, versus doing the pass the tray like they did today.  She told me about her Catholic background, that she was new to all of this.  At that point I also did a one minute explanation of the difference of Catholics vs. Born Agains, summarizing it as most of the beliefs are similar, except the Catholics have a few more rules and like to use a Father for confession, whereas Born Agains can pray directly to God. 

  She seemed very sweet, really grateful that I took the time to explain it to her, since she had only been to the church maybe a half dozen times and told me that I was the first person that she talked to.  I didn’t expect my Sunday to be any different, because the church I go to for worship service is a big one.  Heck, even I don’t know anyone at the church, I just like the music and the message.  But today, she reminded me that I need to be more observant and at times extend myself a little, whether it’s at work, at church, or sitting at Starbucks.  I have the tendency of assuming everyone around me knows what’s up or has it all together, but in reality, everyone is a little lost, just like me.  We are all just looking for kindred souls to help us along. 

  • “Hi, I’m Sharon.  What’s your name?”
  • “Oh, I’m Howard.  Nice to meet you!”
  • “I’m really glad you explained that to me!  I don’t know anyone else here.  Maybe I’ll see you around next time!” 

  I have to admit, I saw that she didn’t have a ring on.  That’s because she was divorced, early 30s with two kids.  But my gosh, she looked like Jessica Simpson. 

  • 11:21 am
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