My husband, Ken, died in 2004. His funeral (or celebration of life) was jam packed with all kinds of people, from church, political and community leaders to street people. He was a bridge builder for sure.
In planning the service we chose traditional mainstream hymns. And there were bagpipes. But, for the final hymn, I chose the rousing old timey "When We All Get to Heaven."
Fast forward to this past Sunday morning. I now watch the church service on my big screen TV. Pastor Philip preached. But he was preceded by Pastor David who shared his own feelings of stress about the up coming election...... that some say is the most consequential election our country has ever faced.
I did not want to deal with this. Have you ever seen a therapist who ended up telling you all about his or her on issues. This is how it felt. I wanted to to turn off the TV.
But I didn't.
Prior to the sermon, Pastor Philip told us about a Christian Political Dialog, comprised of church members who were on both sides of the upcoming election. He showed us a short video of the discussion. I recognized a close friend in this group.
It took me a while to admit to myself how important this was, even though I was very uncomfortable. But, with a congregation of several hundred people, it's only right that all voices need to be heard and respected.
And Pastor David, was right in expressing his own stress, thereby helping us remember we're all in the same boat. (Even though I felt like turning the TV off and crawling under my bed.)
Later, Pastor Philip preached on Luke 15, the story of the Prodigal Son. I know this story inside out, as many people do. But Philip painted a picture at the end that I had never before envisioned.
Remember the older son in the story who was angry because he stayed home and kept his nose clean but his dad never threw him a party? Philip asked us to envision that, instead, the older son was standing on the porch with his dad, BOTH of them cheering for and embracing the Prodigal.
I loved that image! Do I feel less stressful about the upcoming election? Nope. But I do know we have to all find a way to live together after the election.
And I loved Philip's image of reconciliation for all kinds of reasons.
When we all get to heaven what a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus we will sing and shout with victory.
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You can find the October 20th service and a clip of Christian Political Dialog on YouTube at FUMCWP.
