Feb.9: McChurch

While you weren’t looking, something happened on the social scene. Especially, some people from the church weren’t looking.
We live in a fast-paced world; some people can’t keep up. We live in a busy world; people are neglected who need someone to spend time with them. We live in a world that thrives on communication. (Remember: The Information Highway?) Yet many people don’t have anyone with whom to talk. Widows, widowers, single parents, unemployed; many people fall into this category.
Because of this, fast-food restaurants and convenience stores have become the morning hang-out for a different group of people.
Over fast food, many deal with a slow-paced grief recovery. Many single, senior adults go to a convenience store for their first cup of coffee just to hear a personal word and enjoy a little conversation before returning to their world of isolation. Conversation comes easy and introductions don’t have to be formal when all you want to hear is a friendly word. These people bring in good business, they have money to spend and they don’t cause trouble so businesses are glad for them to “hang-out”.
The church needs to be sensitive to this group. It is a wonderful place to share the Gospel, in fact, many church contacts are made there. Proverbs 20:29 (NIV) says “the glory of young men is their strength, gray hair the splendor of the old.” Proverbs 23:22 (NIV) says “listen to your father, who gave you life, and do not despise your mother when she is old.” A reminder perhaps?
The church needs to be aware that lonely people are looking for companionship. Meaningful activity and opportunities for ministry to others could give some people a reason to get up in the morning. I certainly have nothing against people congregating at fast-food restaurants or convenience stores. I just wonder if that is their first choice. Maybe the church could be an alternative?

“Make us aware, Lord of all Comfort, of the multitude of people who
live with the weight of loneliness. Amen”