Worship in God's waiting room

Thoughts after visiting a few declining congregations.

We wait in quiet anticipation;

a small bunch winnowed

by demographic law

and chance.

Our weary, aching frames

now bear burdens

of regret, fragmented memories,

confusion and desperate longing.

These we bring, along with

tales of love, and ventures bold

and triumphs shared

in distant times.

Here, in this sanctuary

built to house a crowd

of rising praising voices

we wait in isolation.

What will our worship bring this day?

Will it bring crafted clever words

and echoes of a distant past?

Will it bring solemnity and dignity?

Will scripture be read but not proclaimed?

Will forgiveness be declared, but not delivered?

Will the reign of love be announced

but remain skin deep?

Please do this for us, and do it well.

Understand our needs

and speak comfortably to them.

Know how it feels to walk the narrow path to death.

Share our quiet distress.

Listen to us again and again.

Tell us Good News for our late hour.

Journey with us, hold our hands, enfold our hearts.

Let us know for sure

the journey's been worthwhile

despite the sins and stumbles

and brokenness.

Demonstrate to us

that we are loved.

© Karel Reus