What's Right with You?

I realized one day over a buffalo chicken sandwich at a smoke-filled Denny’s in Webster Groves, Missouri that I have the predisposition to complain. I think we all do, I don’t think I’m special in that regard. But I sat there with my friend Shelly as we picked apart some history class or some happening at our university and I wondered if there wasn’t a more productive way to spend my time. I still participate in my bad habit of stating plainly and loudly what’s wrong, but more often than not, I try to answer the unasked question of “What’s right with you,” instead of “What’s wrong with you?”

So, Midway Hills, what’s right with you? How have you enjoyed the summer so far?

 

I’ll tell you, one of the best things going on right now for me is y’all and what we’re doing together in the Reign of God. I am excited for the ministries and missions that are blossoming, moving forward, reigniting or continuing to truck in this church. I am thrilled that we have decided to take the plunge and redo the roof before the roof takes the plunge on us. I am overjoyed that we’re seeing new faces and returning faces every week in worship. And I am thankful that our church is one that is living, not gradually turning into a museum.

 

In less than a year, this church turns sixty. And — correct me if my chronology is wrong, but I think I’m right — 2015 marks a decade since the New Beginnings process began here; it’s been ten years since the first time this congregation dared utter, “But what’s right with us?” So much, Midway Hills, so much.

 

Usually when I write this article, I try to tell a story, tie it into the life of the church, and encourage you to come to worship on Sunday. (Please come to worship on Sunday, it’s not the same when you’re not around!) This article, and a few before, and certainly a few after, let me just say thanks. Thank you for calling me here, thank you for letting me be your pastor, thank you for in-breaking the Reign of God in our syncopated, concentrated, liberated way. And speaking of breaking in, you may want to read Mark 2 for this Sunday — it’s a good one! I look forward to seeing you then, and always.

 

Shalom y’all,

 

Arthur