Losers?

I lived (when I was a kid) in Northeast Missouri not far from Iowa. I have been there several times – and it is a wonderful, beautiful place. I am sure the people there are wise, care about others, and make sound decisions. But. . .

The Republican presidential candidates face their first real voting contest in Tuesday’s Iowa caucuses. But, as is the case in all contests, someone has to lose – in this case, a few people have to lose. (ABC News)

Surely it’s not the people of Iowa who choose the next President! I know, I know, it just a sample of what is likely to make the headlines, but failing to finish in the top two or three vote getters surely can’t mean one is a “loser” because of the way Iowa votes. The Media will portray that, however, in their quest to eliminate everyone they don’t like – which seems to be everyone running in Iowa.

I was talking about that same sort of thing with my Preacher this past week. People often make a decision about the Church they want to attend by sitting through one service. If things don’t turn out exactly as they should, it could mean that congregation will get no other hearing.

If I were looking for a Church home, I would attend several services. I would talk with the Pastor, the Music Minister, and if I had kids, the Youth Guy. I might even attend a business meeting. I would go on Sunday night and Wednesday night (or whatever night they had “stuff” – if they have stuff to which one is invited other than on Sunday morning). In short, this is the place where I will hear God’s Word – or not – sing the great hymns and songs of the faith – or not – be lloved and cared for by the other Believers who are part of that Body – or not – and be taught (along with my children) the principles, statutes, Truth if you will, of God – or not.  That isn’t a decision that can be properly made sitting through a single hour which may vary widely from week to week.

I asked my Preacher how he felt about what I was saying in this post. He said I might do better to just be quiet. Some folks are from Iowa.