Chaplains on the River

Last Sunday I had the opportunity to preach in two United Methodist churches in the New Orleans metro area.  After the second service, before going to lunch, I was engaged in a very interesting discussion.  Growing out of some thoughts from my sermon earlier, I was asked what I thought were the two greatest needs of people.  The man asking the question felt that one’s vocation should be the intersection of what one loves to do with those needs, in order to live a life of service.

My first answer was CONNECTION.  I believe that while we communicate with many people in many different high-tech ways we often fail to really connect with other people.  A case in point is blogging, texting, e-mail and twitters.  These are great tools for quick communication - but they are not a substitute for connection…for really getting to know someone…for communication at deeper levels, involving eye contct, expression, bidy language and nuance of voice and language.  I use these tools as appropriate, but nothing substitutes to conversation over coffee…on the bow…in the wheelhouse.

My second answer was IDENTITY.  I believe that people have a tendency to identify themselves by what they do…what they possess…what their social status might be.  Somehow the basic concepts of human dignity and self-worth have become lost.  When working as a minister in a local church and teaching confirmation classes, I would try to instill in sixth grade youth that they were beloved children of God.  They were each inherently valuable despite skin color, clothing worn, neighborhood lived in, or amount of money in the bank.  Most adults need to learn this lesson as well!

As I have reflected on this question, and my answers, in the days since, I have come to realize that these two needs are easily met!  Each one of us can help be part of the solution.  You and I can truely connect with those we work with and our family members.  We can go beyond the superficial - as made too easy with tech glitz and gadgets - and “be there” for and with others.  As we do this, I see it also addressing the second need.  If we are willing to take the time and expend the energy to really connect with other people. then they  will see that they are a valuable and worthy person.  What goes around comes around, and we all benefit.

Some things in this world are so big that they are far beyond the ability of any one person to make a difference.  But in meeting these two fundamental needs of those around you (and yourself), YOU CAN MAKE THE DIFFERENCE!  Just as every crew member plays a vital part in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the boat, so each one of us has a crucial role in meeting needs. 

See you on the river!  We’ll connect…and remind each other that we are important just for who we are!

Chaplain Mike