Lois and I had a great discussion this morning about our involvement with the Methodist church and if what we believe, which is contrary to what they believe, will eventually be a problem. This conversation was prompted by a phone call from the pastor, Barbara, last night. She only called to tell us that Sunday school was cancelled, but we chatted for a little while, and in the course of that conversation she commented on my singing and speaking voice. I told Lois that our new faith was very likely responsible for our view of church and doing leadership things in it. I also said that, if I was honest, how could I not spill the beans, so to speak, to explain why I don't sing in the choir, teach a class, sing solos, etc.? We finally came to realize that we were different with regard to our church re-involvement because Lois could just go to ladies' meetings and keep her faith low. But for me, coming from over 40 years of experience of "performing" up front, and now writing a blog, Framed By Faith, where I basically lay it all out, it's quite difficult to explain why I've changed without coming across as if those things are now beneath me, which they aren't. They're just not where I'm at now. We agreed to proceed, with the Lord giving us wisdom to address things as they come up.
CANTATA
The choir did a great job, as did the soloists, organist, pianist, violinist (Barbara) and choir director. The church was full, and everyone clapped when it was over. I'm still having trouble wrapping my mind around whether this was entertainment or a form of worship. Maybe it was a little of both.
A WALK IN THE PARK
After several successive days of snow, ice and freezing weather, the skies parted, and the sun put in an appearance. It's quite exhilarating to walk the dogs on a beautiful, yet chilly, day. Lois and I are both concerned about the condition of outside pets in our neighborhood, especially when the weather is unbearable. Following a previously failed attempt to get animal control to address the issue, we would almost rather see the dogs die than to see them suffer so. I think God may having something to say to people who abuse pets.
WON'T YOU BE MY NEIGHBOR?
I saw her from my window, across the street, fiddling with the water meter cover. I walked over and asked what problem she was having. She said that a faucet was leaking (on the hot side), where her ex-husband (who still lives with her) had attempted to replace a washer. He was working the flea market and hadn't returned home. I said that she could turn off the hot water at the water heater, so that she didn't have to turn off all of the water. She said that the water heater was in the basement and that she won't go down there. I offered to go do it for her, but she declined, saying that he would be home soon. She struggled at turning the shut-off key for the main line, so I turned it for her. Again I offered to get just the hot water turned off. No --- thanks anyway, she said. She would wait for him to get home. We've lived in this house for over nine years, and it's still difficult to get some neighbors to trust you. But I can't blame her; I've already forgotten their names. Some neighbor I am!
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Lord, help me to be honest about my faith, but wise in sharing it. Keep me from being judgmental; instead let me enjoy life and those living it with me. Thank you for neighbors; please make me a better one.
Amen
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