Re-Entry

The church I attend has introduced parking lot fellowship as an idea of easing into personal interaction. The gatherings are in the form of a drive-in where we get together for a meal outdoors, listen to music and play games. 

The most recent event was a blend of social distancing and masks, and an occasional short conversation between fully vaccinated individuals, without a mask. The afternoon was sun drenched and beautiful for catch-up conversations and the discovery of physical and psychological needs of our members. 

As I approached about a dozen of member friends, some extended a hand for shaking, an elbow for touching, or a fist for bumping. For thirty seconds we struggled to connect on each other’s gesture of choice.  Others asked, “two shots?” The refrain, “Yep, more than two weeks ago.”  And in unison, “fully vaccinated.”

For several people, however, there seemed to be an occasional hesitancy in rekindling the previously close-knit connections. For example, I spoke with at least two people who I have known for a while, and momentarily forgot their names.  Fortunately, the first person introduced himself to my wife and, unknowingly, to me. When I came to the other person I not only forgot his name but then asked how his surgically repaired shoulder was doing. He answered, “I had hip surgery.” How embarrassing! These last 15 months or so have taken something out of me, I suppose.

Both persons seemed to forgive me for my lapses of memory.  That is a gracious gesture of our love for one another and why I celebrate being a part of this family of faith. It is said that churches are not for saints, but for folks who make mistakes regularly and need the help and support of others.  

People throughout our country may well need to apologize from time-to-time as we re-enter the new normal. I recently heard that a huge number of people who worked as wait staff in restaurants have chosen not to return to their jobs.  One of their reasons was the abuse they endure when they remind  customers that they must continue to wear a mask indoors when not eating. 

Any argument protesting the rules for our returning to public attendance at concerts, theatres, ballgames and the like, seem somewhat petty.  We are headed toward 600,000 deaths in the country resulting from the coronavirus; nearly 5,000 people are still dying every week. Seems like we are forgetting the continued devastation of the virus. Over five million people mourn these losses.  Rather than argue about rules intended to keep us safe as we reconnect, how about a quick prayer for those whose loved ones have died and of gratitude for the people who have risked their own health to serve us over the past year?  And, while we are at it, toss in a quick forgiveness for those who momentarily might forget your name. Praying for your successful return to the community you love and respect