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July 2003
A Time to Speak
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July 2003
A Time to Speak
Monday morning, June 16, the business session of Annual Conference began with the Executive Meeting of the Clergy. We met in the auditorium of the Roanoke Convention Center. One of the first items of business was to begin narrowing the list of clergy candidates for General and Jurisdictional Conference. This is a very lengthy process and requires great attention to detail. A list of all clergy members was given to us and then questions were raised as to who on the list might be ineligible for election as a delegate. Some names were mentioned and removed for reasons like death, transferred out, etc.
As the list was carefully examined someone rose and addressed the clergy stating that John Price's name should be removed. He stated that Reverend John Price had died. Another person commented, "Oh, that's right...he did." There was a very brief lull in the discussion. Then from the other side of the auditorium a voice was heard that was strong and clear. "I'm still here!" the voice said. It then became clear to all that there were two Reverend John Prices and that this John Price was still very much alive. Laughter filled the room as we realized the error in our thinking.
Well that got me to thinking. There comes a time when failure to speak up leaves people to live with the error of their thinking. It doesn't always take a sermon; in fact, a sermon probably would not be effective. Just a simple, clear statement can bright light into a darkened situation. For example: When people excuse their lack of attendance at worship by saying that worship is not necessary, I would encourage you to speak up. A simple response is all that's needed. Something like: "I believe worship is necessary to our life as a Christian," or an even briefer statement such as "I disagree" can make a difference.
Let me encourage you to share your faith, speak up, invite and encourage. You will be surprised how God will use these simple words to bring clarity.
Grace and Peace,
David