how`s the world treating you?

How`s the world treating you? In the week that the world has said good–bye to the towering figure of Nelson Mandela, it seems timely to re–visit this question that is sometimes asked as a casual introductory greeting, and became a song title. If Nelson Mandela had been asked the question he would have had plenty of material to draw on for complaint, but of course he would not have used any of it. More likely he might have paraphrased that legendary line from JFK`s inauguration speech, and said "Ask not how the world`s treating you, but how are you treating the world?" That`s a different way to look at the world, could be world–changing, but will certainly transform our own lives, it`s a choice we can make.

10 Tips for a Christian moving to a different church (and one bonus)

(Assuming it’s a reasonably sized church with a comprehensive range of activities)

1. Remember that the church is made up of all different kinds of people, some having a good day, others not. You won’t relate well to all of them. They also have lives that are already pretty full, making room for you will take some effort.
2. Be prepared to take the initiative in conversations and making connections.
3.  Don’t be the ‘new person’ too long. Focus on what’s happening in your own and others’ lives right now, not ‘how long have you been here?’ Be interested in what others are doing.
4.  Enjoy the differences in the way things are done compared to your previous church.
5. Have grace for people who don’t recognise you this week, even though you had a conversation with them last week.
6.  Don’t join teams too quickly. Even in a big church there will be gaps in teams, so you may find yourself being roped into something that isn’t really your bag.
7.  Alongside the previous point, don’t expect to do the same functions you did in your previous church, at least not straight away. Help out where there is need.
8. Keep your own counsel unless and until asked for it. You may have what you think are good ideas, but take the time to understand the culture and history before you offer them.
9. Recognise that the leaders have lots of needs to meet, and though yours’ are valid, they cannot give you their undivided attention, or bring you into close personal relationship.
10.  If you find yourself saying ‘this is not a very welcoming church’ remember you are part of it now, and you can be welcoming!  Yes, we’re all part of a family, but distant relatives can take some time to get into the local family ways.

Bonus: Treat it all as a learning opportunity, and smile!

The perfect introvert day stretches out ahead. Snow lies thick in the garden I overlook from my desk at the window. A few small birds hop and flutter around the food I've placed for them. A flood of opportunities, but no commitments, a day of quiet exploring, of disappearing into the warmth of imagination and possibility, without the need for explanation or justification. Peace. Music, or no music, Coffee, no dead-lines, drink it and think, slow time down, simple things today.

2012 ahead

I stand on the edge of the year in which I will be sixty years old. It seems ridiculous really but is also hugely challenging, not so much in stopping and reflecting on the past but thinking about what will important in this coming year in prioritisation, in time spent, in attitudes adopted. Recognising the need for deeper relationship and trust in God leading to more meaningful and deeper trusting relationships with others.

Today I will attend my cousin's funeral. He was one year older than me. It's certainly a day for reflection, and a line from a traditional Irish Prayer of blessing comes to mind - "May God hold you in the hollow of his hand." On a day like this the realisation comes that there is nowhere else.