Living On The Edge

Recently, I overheard a conversation between two church members regarding an upcoming church event. The dialogue went something like this: "We are probably going to need more help." "We could ask the Peterson's or the Thompson's" "Yes, we could ask them, but I don't think they will help. They are always on the outside edge" "I know you are right, they don't participate in anything and don't even come all that often. Maybe we could ask the James's, they are here all the time" "Good idea, I will give them a call."

I have to confess that at first, I didn't think too much about the conversation. I just went on about my business. But, before long it began to bug me. I wondered how many of us feel this way? How many of us look at our Christian brothers and sisters and categorize them as "core" members and "those on the edge" or "fringe" members? Surely, we don't do that? Surely we see all our brothers and sisters as simply that, brothers and sisters. Don't we see them all as important parts of the body, necessary for body growth? Or is their attendance and participation so infrequent that we don't really notice when they aren't there? Do we dismiss their absence as just habitual and just accept it rather than checking on them?

I am ashamed that I do these things! It pains my heart to know that I have discounted their faith. I know that God paid the same price for them that He paid for me, the blood of His only Son. I know that! And I am always happy (and surprised) to see them and careful to say they've been missed. Ned and I even talk about how good it was to have them back with us. But in our minds we wonder how long they will stay, whether this was just their occasional foray into the worship service or would we see them more often. But then, as quickly as they entered my mind, the thoughts of them leave. I don't call them or drop them a note. I don't invite them over for dinner. And worst of all, I don't pray for them. Oh, I do generally, but specifically for those "fringe members", no, sadly I don't mention them to God. In fact, I shamedly confess, they do not cross my mind again until the next time I see them. I am not sure anyone else thinks or acts either. And then, we all wonder why they hardly ever come, why they seldom participate, why they don't seem to want to fellowship.

I have been thinking about what it would be like "living on the edge", feeling like a visitor when you are among family? I have wondered what thoughts would pass through one's mind when they were treated like a "temp" rather than a worker? Would I be willing to exert energy and time when I know I would be on the fringe? Would I gladly work at a project as an outsider? I don't think I would. I think I would fill my life with other activities. I think I would spend my time with other friends, building relationships with those in the world. I think I would give my attention, my money and my all to those who made me feel welcome and as if I belonged. I think I would come to worship only when I had nothing better do. I think I would eventually adjust to living on the edge. How about you?

Peace
Neva