Coming Home

Proverbs 23: 31-32

“31 Do not look at wine when it is red, when it sparkles in the cup and goes down smoothly.  32 At the last it bites like a serpent and stings like an adder.”

There are many shiny things in this world that compete for our attention and cause us to wander.  Many people who were raised in the church have heard the call of the world and have no more interest in spiritual things, for a while at least.

I have spoken to people who have left the church and then returned after years away.  They say it is like coming home, with the familiar smell of the candles, the creak of the pews, the hymns, the stillness of the sanctuary and the welcoming smiles of the people.

And they are astounded to learn that God still loves them, that God has forgiven them, that God never deserted them…

and that God welcomes them home with open arms.

“But while he was still a long way off, his father saw him and was filled with compassion for him; he ran to his son, threw his arms around him and kissed him.”  (Luke 15:20)

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)