September 8, 2021
Written by David Petty
But be doers of the word and not merely hearers who deceive themselves.
—James 1:22
Almost every summer for about 65 years, my wife’s family has had a reunion, usually around the Fourth of July; this year it was on Memorial Day. As might be expected with a large group, many of whom are Methodists, there is always a lot of food. Due to unforeseen circumstances, my brother-in-law had to cancel coming this time. When he called to tell us, I asked if there was anything special that he wanted me to eat on his behalf. Without hesitation he replied, “If Aunt Mary brings her chocolate pie, have a piece of that.”
Aunt Mary Is the oldest surviving member of the original family, and there was some question as to whether she would come, but she did and she brought several of the pies (her daughters may have helped with the cooking.)
I had a piece, and it was so good that I had another piece for myself. I seriously considered canvassing the group to see whether anyone else needed me to eat a piece for them.
When I spoke to my brother-in-law later, he seemed to enjoy the report, but not as much as he would have enjoyed the pie. You need to do some things yourself. If you’re thirsty, it won’t help to watch someone drink a long cold glass of lemonade. If you’re sleepy, you won’t benefit much from someone else’s nap.
This seems to be a simple idea, so simple that it isn’t worth the trouble for me to write it, or for you to read it. But it appears that we forget the idea when it comes to church. Church, as I have indicated before in this virtual place, is a participatory sport. To really experience it, you have to be involved.
A few weeks ago we celebrated Vacation Bible School at St. Mark. I believe the kids had a good time and perhaps learned something. (Possibly, they began to learn exactly what I’m trying to say here.) But the kids were not the ones who benefited the most.
No one can tell you how you should be involved — that’s another of the things you have to do yourself. But I’m convinced that there is a role for everyone.
And by the way, if anyone would like me to eat a piece of pie for them next summer, please let me know.
Gracefully submitted,
David Petty