The view from the pulpit.
Climbing the stairs, ascending, looking over the sea of heads.
Parted in the center, was Moses here already?
Preaching the word to so many faces,
Looking.
Expecting.
Some smiling, some sad, some quizzical, some frowning in concentration.
(I pray)
Some just blank… nothing, switched off or sponging up the presence?
(I pray some more)
One face peaking around the pillar! Not really wanting eye contact.
Eyes, looking, wanting to be fed. Yearning…
An ear cupped near the back. Sit closer next time man.
In the zone, such fun and joy. The presence palpable. Yes Lord.
Sometimes its lonely up there.
Where are you God?
Where am I going?
Now, tell ’em about Jesus, the words of a mentor pop up.
If I am struggling I look at the smilers.
If I am riding the wave I look at the frowners… And smile!
A distraction as someone looks at their watch.
Hang in their, my point is just around the corner. Two blocks!
How many sermons has the wall at the back actually heard?
Fishing with words as the message sits and then,
hopefully, prayerfully,
sinks into the Soul.
The takeaway delivered.
Gently, I climb down the stairs.
What just happened?
Jesus…
Is that what it felt like on the cross,
Without the physical pain?
Fr. Nigel Mumford+
