I am a somewhat OCD creature of habit. I have my quirks, my little routines. Still, there are times when I go “off script.” Last Wednesday was one of those times. Most of my pastoral visits happen in the afternoon, when church busy-ness dies down a little. From a visit or two, I generally meet up with my wife for an early dinner before Wednesday evening worship. Since she was visiting her mother last Wednesday, I found myself post-visit driving and wondering where I might end up. I ended up at Beef O-Brady’s, wearing my clerical collar, jeans and tennis shoes. I saddled up to the bar, ordered a beer (oh, the horror!), and plucked out a food menu. Yes, I stood out. So much so that a lady came up to me and asked if I was a priest or a pastor. At least she didn’t default to calling me “Father”! She said, “I really need to talk to you.” She was sitting next to her husband of 64 years, who has been dealing with Alzheimer’s for six years. What great conversation, and I prayed to the Holy Spirit throughout for words and guidance. After they left, two men who had been listening in chimed in with questions about church, Luther, and other matters of faith.

This was all totally random! It was a golden opportunity to witness to the kingdom of God and the love of Jesus. I had no plan, no agenda when I walked into Beef’s for dinner – and a couple of brews. I was delighted that people were taken a little aback at seeing me dressed as I was where I was. Indeed, this is how Jesus did his best ministry. We are church; we are evangelists; we are disciples first and foremost when it is NOT Sunday morning or Wednesday evening sitting in the pews. God’s timing catches us unexpectedly. It spontaneously breaks through our OCD-ish rituals and routines. God’s purposes surprise us, even in the tragic circumstances of our lives. Introverts like myself have to work harder to avail themselves to initiating faith conversations. The deep breaths to calm ourselves, to allow God’s peace to wipe out our fears, leave us feeling exhilarated and on such a high. The unconditional love of God makes these random opportunities possible as He prepares us for doing His work with our listening ears and risk-taking.

Pastor Art