I Once Was Lost But Now I'm Found

I once was lost but now I'm found are words to a very profound song. Then, it continues: was blind but now I see. This is about transitioning, changing from a very critical and sometimes judgemental position to acceptance of the truth. What I have found is the real Church of Christ, unchanged and handed down from Him through his apostles, worshiping the undivided Trinity: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. This small Orthodox Church, somewhat hidden away, gathers a people who know what family and love is, and come together to worship each Sunday. Then, we share a cup of coffee and friendship, following the Liturgy in our parish hall.

I was blinded by the fact years ago, that "correct faith" meant that you were amongst the majority of people, and where they hung their hat, so to speak. It, in reality, has nothing to do with size, or how fancy the building is, or even if we are air conditioned, have a fancy organ, or Sunday school program. Maybe, things needed cleaning and fixing up, a bit, which is always what we strive to do, but only after our mission, and that is to worship God and love one another. That is all that is important! Not the language spoken, nor how much you can give. But how much you can love. Then, you can learn to love to give, in your own special way.

Our parish has been undergoing a long awaited overhaul. We are putting in a new church floor for one thing, another was cement replacement stairs, which was located near our newly painted parish building. Everything costs so much today, and unlike years prior, we mostly hire out work that needs to be done.

Today, my thoughts are not so much on the beauty surrounding us though, they are on the "people" we served last night at our Community Meal. What I saw was people hungry in many ways, who are being changed through the grace and love of God for them through others. Changed because someone cared about them. One person who came along for the first time last week, came in yesterday looking for me, and for some reason, I remembered her name. I also remember that she was unlike last week. She appeared vibrant, and cheerful, with her hair colored and she was eager to help in her own way. She was now there for someone else, participating in people needing people. This week, the difference was that she was not self focused. The person enjoying her company, said that he comes for the conversation, but is filled with a wonderful homemade meal complete with goodies and smiles. This is hospitality at its finest. People come empty and leave with so much more than a full stomach, looking forward to joining us "next time".

If you go to church to look only for things exterior, then you are blind and cannot see. Like the cup 1/2 full, you have much room.. If you come and leave your criticism and cares outside of the door, and look to see what the spirit of God can do for the interior, your eyes will be opened, and you will be filled with the Spirit of Love, and that is just the beginning. Sort of looking at the world in rose-colored glasses. The world becomes a beautiful place when love is added to the portion.

Glory be to God for all good things. Come and See! Love is what we offer...unconditionally, where we both dish it out and take it.