I was sat in a bus heading into the City this week but not in any old seat; I was sat in a priority seat for those less able to stand than others. The bus had pulled up to a stop and a mother outside with a pram was struggling to see a free seat on the bus for her to come on for. Totally lost in a day-dream, it wasn’t until the very last second that I realised what was going on and I should have happily, quickly, enthusiastically given up my seat for this young mother with her hands full. It was an honest mistake because I’d been unaware until it was too late, but that didn’t prevent some gesticulating and ‘ppffts’ from other passengers toward me on the bus. I felt bad for the mother whose needs I’d been oblivious to.
In church community, we are travelling with people all the time, some of whom are less able to stand than we are. Here are some common reasons:
1) those who are lazy – they need to give out into the life of the church and not consume so much. Strength will rise for them (and the church) as they do
2) those who are ‘pregnant’ and about to give birth – they will get tired sometimes despite the joy of the new life that they hold
3) those who are disabled or injured and who need healing – they need to rest and be looked after
4) those who are already carrying enough responsibility and are tired – the 20% doing the 80%
5) those who are drunk – those intoxicated with the nonsense of this world
6) those deserving of honour – Jesus should always have a priority seat, up front and centre!
Let’s ensure in leadership that our priority seating is occupied by the right people and let’s not get caught up in our own day-dreaming so that we can spot those who need a seat more than we do!
Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.
Ephesians 6:13
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