Two weeks ago I hit a babysitting snafu and took Sam
with me to lead a worship service at an assisted living home. Some delightful
IWU students came along as well.
Sam explained to John: “Since the old people can’t
come to church, we bring the church to them.”
We drove to the facility and once inside Sam made
a beeline for the receptionist’s desk and asked, “Do you know where all the old
people are who like little kids?” She pointed him towards the lobby where the
small congregation was waiting.
Sam was eager to participate, so he sang a song (“Jesus
Loves Me”), he recited a Bible verse (Genesis 1:1), and then he settled in next
to Mary who interrupted the service every thirty seconds to announce, “Oh, he’s
just so cute I could take him home.”
Part way through my sermon Sam realized I was
sharing a story about him. He popped off his chair and made his way to my side.
Grabbing my hand he interrupted and actually finished the illustration himself.
After this display of divine initiative he then
asked, “Now can I preach about dinosaurs?”