In church today …

It’s been five-and-a-half years since I left the pastorate, and today was one of those Sundays were I felt the simple joy of getting the chance to attend church as a quiet, anonymous parishioner, sitting in the pew, taking it all in. I know some people have nothing but criticism for the church in general, but if we have eyes to see, I’m guessing in each church in particular, whatever the problems, there are signs of grace. I sure saw them today – reports of a glorious summer-camp ministry to disabled kids, beautiful music, sincere prayers, the ever-deep eucharist, and this simple but beautiful thought from the sermon:

I slept and dreamt that life was a joy.
I awoke and saw that life was service.
I acted and behold – service is a joy.