Clay in the Hands

Hello!  My name is Brian and I got a ticket.

That’s how my meeting started Monday night.  A couple of months ago, I found myself being pulled over as I made my way through Lubbock toward the hospital.  Even though I explained that I was on my way to visit a church member in the hospital, the officer took no pity.

So long story short, I ended up in a defensive driving class.  I would not be all together truthful if I told you this was the first time I had sat through this information.  In fact, in my younger days, I think I could have taught it I had taken it so frequently.

At any rate, as the class began, I sat watching all those other lead footed souls in the class with me.  No one wanted to talk – we all just wanted it to be over.  Monday night, we sat and listened without saying a word.

Tuesday night, we were each back in our seats for the last half of the class – yes, it works the same as in the church – everyone was right back in the same exact seat.

But as the session came to a close, it was interesting to see the dynamics in the room change.  People began interacting with one another.  There were smiles on faces and even a few laughs.

As I drove home, defensively by the way, I reflected on what I had observed.  By the end of the class, people began to loosen up.  There was sense of camaraderie.  We had just spent 6 hours of our lives together.  Did we know each other any better than when we started?  Not really.  But the dynamic was impressive.  All of the sudden, we were a group.

My point?  All of us, by our very nature, are creatures who need relationships.  We are wired that way.  That is why small groups in church are so important.  We are going to find community one way or the other.  Wouldn’t it be better to find it in church?

I challenge you to get involved in a small group in your church.  Your life will be enriched.

Be blessed today!