A Picture of the Church

I have a confession to make. The secularization of the holidays makes me a bit of a Scrooge. I'm convinced that the reason we hear "The Little Drummer Boy" closer to July every year is based on $$$. Black Friday is evaluated to determine the national economy level. And the hungry get hungrier and the poor get poorer.

Needless to say, I wasn't all that thrilled when the wife mentioned her plan for an "Open House". We've (her more than I of course) spent the last few weeks decorating, shining and cleaning, and making great food. All this in an attempt to open our house so that church members could see how we live. I joked from time to time about what would be on display. Would those attending be able to open closets, look in the underwear drawer, and does anyone know the real reason for floating candles in a bathroom sink we use?

Sunday evening the big day arrived. The lights were turned on. Everything was polished. The food was just the right temperature. And several people came. I saw women who were gaga (is that a word?) over decorations, men enthralled by the food, and the kids were playing games. Some were dressed fancy. Others not so much. Everyone looked different, talked different, and enjoyed different things. The diversity was obvious. For a little over two hours, everyone seemed to enjoy the festivities and each other. After it was over, I couldn't help but think that this is what the church should look like.

I thanked Shae for a great night and her hospitality. Even though the work was long and tedious, it was well worth it. And finally, I repented for my attitude and saw the blessing of God providing a true picture of the church.