Flashback

As Carolon and I prepare for a transition to the Westhill Church of Christ in Cleburne we are bringing various ministry functions to a close. This effects changes in our time and commitments, including a redirect of what has become a Sunday morning routine. The weekly Shepherds/Ministry Staff meeting at the Alvin Church of Christ happens at 8:00 AM each Sunday. But, two weeks ago I suggested to my fellow leaders the remaining weeks I was on staff my plan included bowing out of these meetings, except for when they specifically asked me to attend. This would allow them to work on their own transition at our departure. In the absence of a meeting to launch the day, how would I start the teaching/preaching engine? By visiting one of America's richest locations for sermon reflection – Starbucks! Those of you who teach and preach know precisely what I mean.

Our local Starbucks is inside Kroger. As I walked into the sitting area, a Kroger's employee was kicked back at a table waiting for a ride. He had no car, was living with his sister and brother-in-law, had one child out of wedlock to whom he was being forced to pay child support, and predictively had no money. How do I know this? Because he poured out his pain, to an unsuspecting fellow employee; and I listened, while working through the morning homily. The guy innocently asked, "You off work?" and in response he received a bitter ear full. I'm guessing the next time he sees "Mr. My Life is Hard," he will duck and dodge.

Jump forward one week, I walk in this morning and the only change is the story is being told to another employee. Everything else remains the same. The events of the past week provide the only tangible indicator time has passed. His story is typical of how many of us remain stuck in a life frame which is not personally flattering, self-esteem building, or hopeful. Rather than take responsibility we elect to feel offended by life and justified in passing the blame for any indiscretion, regardless of how offensive, on to someone else.

Jesus' profession on what His arrival on earth delivers is "life to the full." And yet this life, His life, "life to the full" is an evasive philosophical proposition at best; and an elusive presentation of reality at worst as long as we view our life through the lens of paralyzing self-pity. We are not created for life by the least common denominator of existence, but to pursue life with excellence.

Yes, this Sunday I will likely continue my new routine. I wonder if the story will change?