It’s a Sign

Read a post this morning by Pete Greig, about two men he’d met who had become disillusioned with the church because of hurt from within. It’s painful to read, because for most of us it’s all too familiar a story for someone we know.

Went on a road trip today to the North Coast with a good friend. One of his family has changed gender recently - he’s been very open about what it’s been like for them all. But the most painful thing to hear is how out of awkwardness and lack of knowing what to say, some people choose to pretend that this family member has never existed.

I am so thankful to worship a God who isn’t afraid of awkwardness. Who does not ignore those in need. Who chooses to see us, to meet us where we are, and never to refuse us love.

“And then personally we must also be prepared to go on many long journeys with prodigals like the two men I met these past two days. We must listen to them respectfully and befriend them unconditionally. One whiff of bible-bashing and they will run a mile. But give it a few more chats over a few more months and there may well come a night, after a few beers no doubt, when one or other of these men will turn to me and finally say ‘OK, talk to me about the Jesus stuff. How can you really believe all that ****? Tell me more.’ “

God help us to sit with people like you sit with us, even when we don’t know what to say.

Gratefuls:
- this friend of mine - who has such a passion for reaching out to people who are at risk of being forgotten by the church. A friend that loves to include, to stick with people, and not to judge. I pray that the church will be known for a heart like this!
- that God is both perfect Truth and perfect Love. Who knows us, and knows how we need to be loved.
- the beauty of the North Coast. The Giants Causeway, White Rocks, Portstewart and Portrush promenades.
- the friendliness of the people we met today. A girl from primary school who we hadn’t seen in 11 years, and a tourist from Amsterdam...and 15 others (NI is a small place!)