07 Aug 06 I Love Church
I am not one who encourages or participates in vandalism. I react strongly to evidences and remnants of vandalism. Yesterday, however, I saw some vandalism that made me smile. My father-in-law asked me to teach his shepherding group class at church yesterday. This is one reason why it is hard for ministers to experience a true vacation. When attending church with friends and family (even on vacation) you are often asked to speak or teach. I’m not complaining I’m just explaining. I enjoyed teaching the class. I was glad to be able to help out my father-in-law.
As I placed my Bible and notes on the wood lectern I noticed that someone (presumably a kid or teenager) had carved these words into the lectern: I LOVE CHURCH. Curious the choice of words. Again, my first reaction is negative toward acts of vandalism. Someone took their switchblade or bowie knife to Bible class and decided to see what that baby would do. Interesting contrast between the act of vandalism itself and the message of the vandal.
Here’s what I want to know: What is happening at a church that prompts someone to carve out the words I LOVE CHURCH. We’ve all been in and seen church situations where vandals have written and carved other not so flattering words regarding their church experience. Some of our own names might have even been included in the artistic expression. What was happening in this family of God that prompted this act of self expression?
Knife open. Hiding in an empty classroom. Poised to leave an enduring mark. One such ruffian had some incredible experience that he / she decided to make a lasting statement: I LOVE CHURCH.
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The Bible teacher in me is trying to figure out when that happened, as I have taught from behind that lectern many times.
The school teacher in me is tryin to figure out who that kid was, and what the appropriate punishment for him is.
The church member in me is thinking about how we share our classrooms and the amount of security involved.
But the Steve in me is just totally cracking up. I love church too.
May we all have churches that inspire that kind of vandalism. I’m waiting for someone to carve “I love the Elders” at our church.
I truly hope the carver was sincerely expressing a love for being in that building………………and I try to aim for the positive side of most everything.
But is it possible the flip side of this equates to what can frequently be heard in my office (and I’m sure many other places of employment throughout the country!): “I lo-o-v-e this place!” when in actuality we are being facetious? Just a thought. A negative one, for sure. Anyway, I’d rather think the perpetrator really does “love church!”
I would be handing out knives to the kids if I thought they would express themselves in such a positive enduring way. Hopefully, the same thought is carved on their heart. Thanks for the great post!
Tell me if you see one that says “I Love Stockton”! Sorry, I just checked your blog and the last time I looked Reese was holding your hand on a good walk to school. Good luck with the move, wish could swing through, John
It wasn’t me. I promise. I was in another class. Really.
Watch about 15 minutes of any one of the three CSI shows on TV and you’ll have enough evidence gathering skills to nail the perp within the hour!