Evendays

I gave the sister a call because she’d been absent on Sunday, and I’d missed her before that.

“I’m just calling to make sure you’re okay and not ill.” (And I want to encourage you in your walk with God…)

“Well, I just changed my medication and am having trouble getting used to it.”

“So it’s making it difficult to get out in the mornings?” (So your sickness IS keeping you home…)

“No, not really. I’ve decided to give myself my own religious education now. I stayed home on Sunday and watched a show about Armenian Christians and how they live their faith. Had I gone to church, I would have missed it.”

“Well, they’ve got these really neat machines now that record TV programs so you can watch them later. If you want, I’ll record next-week’s show so you can come to church.” (I really want to know why you’d choose a TV show over flesh-and-blood communion, 5 minutes away.)

“Actually, I’ve decided to come for worship every other week. I’ve already done the accounting for 2005 and 2006. I’d still be coming more than anyone else at church. I’ve already checked.”

“Sister, I’m having trouble believing the Spirit of God is leading you in this. What do you think?” (That’s what I meant.)

“I don’t see where my Bible says I’m obligated to take communion every Sunday.”

“Sure, sister, but is the Spirit leading this decision? Listen, I’m glad you’re not ill…”

Years ago, Eugene Peterson wrote that talking parishioners into coming to church was a losing situation. All you can do is ask them about it and pray. Yancey’s last book says, “I believe that life with God should seem more like friendship than duty.” I believe the same thing about communion within the family. So I’ll pray about it.