Most of you know that the last few weeks I have been off on vacation. I was tempted often to write but was convinced it was a time for rest. However, it seems like its time to return to the BLOG experiment.
I got back to Canada shortly after dinner on Saturday and spent the night unpacking. As we departed for church Sunday morning, I climbed into my car, turned the key, and heard a lovely squeel… snap… and smoke appeared. Nothing like your car breaking down to be reminded that holidays are over – welcome back to reality. So I called Grace, one of the many great youth leaders at Hillside and asked for a ride. I cant explain how awesome it was to be back at Hillside. To hear Tim speak and Jeff sing. To see familiar faces and catch up with friends. To feel hugs & handshakes from some of the greatest students in this world (Im bias). There was just not enough time. So many people I wanted to see – I even missed seeing Ella Savannah Hockley (her pictures look so beautiful). And I almost missed it – but Grace picked me up.
For the last month I have been in the USA. And just like the great white north, there are the same great mix of amazing and crazy churches. We are probably a bit of both if we are honest. However, one has got to top the cake from my experience in Florida – Drive-In Christian Church.
I realize I am going to come off arrogant and judgmental but I cant help but wonder out loud if this is what Jesus had in mind. A Drive-In church?! There was no screen. Just a field with ticket windows on both ends and parking spots marked out. A radio station posted, to let all those seeking church without walls. And Im sure it is an honest attempt at being ‘relevant’, or atleast different. However, this sunday morning I wouldnt have been able to properly attend Drive-In church. Well not unless Grace picked me up. I wouldnt have been able to stay separate from everyone else in my car. A vehicle, that if I look at the carpool lane in contrast to the traffic on most US highways, is 2 people at best most days. Because my car broke down, I wouldnt have been able to experience the joy of changing the station if I didnt like what I was hearing, the chance to dart out the parking lot and avoid any interaction with people different from me. I wouldnt be able to do church as quickly and conveniently as possible for my busy life.
But then again, how easy is it for us to mess something up as beautiful as the church. Its easy for me to try and judge this church, but Im confident some of the things I do and say are just as ridiculous to someone. Anyone who knows me, would tell you I cant stand doind tradition for tradition sake. Usually I am one of the loud voices for change to be relevant and different. However, I am reminded that I can get in the way. That I can make decisions to stay the same or change something, thinking it is better. But a good intentioned idea, new or old – doesnt always lead to a good thing. This does not mean don’t try new things. But always ask tough questions. Be willing to try – and be willing to change again. I guess at the end of the day, we just need to make sure that Grace can pick us up when things break down.
