ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
May 14, 2023
Yesterday, I had the opportunity to officiate at a wedding in the Forum. It was a wedding that originally thought they could fit everyone in our small chapel. As the preparation continued, they were concerned about whether the chapel would be big enough. They finally decided to move into the Forum, and it was a good choice. We might have been able to squeeze everyone in using a shoehorn, but there would have been some folks sitting on one another’s laps. The couple wanted everyone to have communion, but as the numbers grew, they didn’t know whether it was a smart idea… more of the people coming would probably not partake of communion. I encouraged them to do communion and give people the choice. In the end, all but maybe two or three shared communion. After the service, I had two people tell me how they had not had communion in years, but the words I spoke made them feel welcome. Their words of joy and gratitude were wonderful to hear.
I tell you this story because I believe one of the Spiritual Gifts of Cypress Creek Christian Church is to embody a belief in abundance, love, and belonging. When the numbers coming to the wedding grew, we were willing to accommodate. When there was concern about whether or not people would feel welcome at the table, I spoke very similar words to what people hear on Sunday morning at CCCC. In a world stuck in a mindset of scarcity, lacking in real expression of love, and continuing to leave people out, it is good to have a community seeking to expand the table and living in such a way that people experience the immeasurable kindness and bountiful hospitality of Jesus. That’s what we do!
Generous God, whenever we might get a little nervous and allow fear to limit our capacity to perceive the possible, we pray for an intervention of your Spirit of abundance and acceptance. We believe you always make room, yet our insecurities often leave us feeling a bit uncertain… making sure our space is secure without concern for others. Forgive us and teach us. Amen.
