Diversity (11/27/2002)

As we have traveled stateside this year, we have had the opportunity to attend or speak at more than 15 different churches, representing a large part of the spectrum of denominations and traditions within contemporary conservative Christianity.

 

Towering cathedrals, stained glass murals, pipe organs, wooden pews;

A sense of reverence, awe and transcendence.

Multipurpose auditoriums, basketball hoops, all weather carpet, stackable chairs;

Welcome for the uninitiated, community, utility.

 

Pastors in robes, collars and suits, reverently pointing toward a Majestic Creator.

Leaders in blue jeans, T-shirts and shorts, welcoming the common to worship the King.

 

Ancient hymns, chants and creeds; the test of time have proved them.

Reverent singing, orchestra, organ, robed choirs, hymnals.

New songs, drums, electric guitar, clapping, swaying, hands raised high;

Tears of emotion, worship teams, sound systems, words on the wall.

 

Sprinkling, dunking, dedication, confirmation.

Wine, wafers, grape juice, crackers;

Quarterly, monthly, every time;

All together, right away, in the pew, at the alter.

 

Reverend, Pastor, Father, Saint, Brothers, Sisters;

Elders, deacons, trustees, leaders.

Hierarchical, independent, districts, counsels,

Associations, denominations, congregational, community.

 

King James, New International, The Message, NASV,

Greek, Hebrew, translation, revision, paraphrase;

Pew Bibles, each carries his own, words printed in the bulletin, projected on a screen.

 

Nursery, children’s church, AWANA, Logos, MOPS,

Sunday school, Bible school, cell groups, house church,

Soup kitchen, AA, food bank, mission trips,

Divorce recovery, singles group, senior citizens.

 

All so different; all with strengths;

Yet all are similar: One Lord, One Savior, One King!

Authority in the Word, Living and written,

Encouraging worship, discipleship, love, hope and faith.