Tha "B" Spot: 07/08

Tuesday, July 10, 2007

Monday, July 9, 2007

Sunday, July 8, 2007

The Woes of Sunday Tradition

I've come to a crossroads in my life, "tradition vs. happiness... " All my life my religious worship was split between two churchs, my mothers and my fathers... nestled at opposite ends of the community where I live. As I grew up my brother and I were shuffled between the two houses of praise on alternating sundays. As I grew older I found myself gravitating towards my mothers home church, although I had joined my fathers church as a child. My mothers church offered a warmer embrace, the family (literally my blood family on her side) seemed to "get it" and understand the fundamental things needed in the church; even amist hard times, they would always bond together for the good of the church and the religious nourishment of the members. I learned how to praise there and it is there that I find myself still drawn to.

My mom passed in January 2006 , and her funeral service was held in her church, so each time I step into the temple, I feel close to her in some odd way, its almost as if her spirit still settles among the service. However, the church as changed drastically under the leadership of a new pastor, things have just done a major salvational shift. There is a lack of "fire" from the pulpit and he seems too drawn on "keeping in real" , relating to the world, rather that nourishing the spirit and soul with Gods word. He is in obvious need of some training,as good as his heart may be, he's not bringing what "thus says the Lord."

As a man, in constant struggle and turmoil with many of lifes issues, its on Sunday morning that I look forward to hearing a word from God, getting some food for the soul and receiving some education about the path God wants us to walk. So far, I havent been receiving that. Its a struggle for him to even stay on topic, let alone deliver a sermon that tightens the shoes and stirs the spirit. It makes me wonder how this same congregation that used to shout and jump and consistently give a hearty AMEN, is now reduced to nodding heads, lack luster responses and superficial members strutting the isles.

So my crossroads is strongly coming into focus, do I leave and try to find another church home that may benefit me and salvation or do I stay and try work within this church with what I have available to me? Its apparent that this pastor is not leaving and the sheepish congregation cant or wont usher in a change. Its so irritating how after every service you can hear commentary like "what was he talking about today" or " he really needs help" from the same members that grin and smile in his face. I love the people in this church and if it wasnt for the ministry through music, I would be at a loss every sunday.

I know everyone should have a personal relationship with God, and I understand that the church body or where you attend service does not get you a ticket into heaven, it is ultimately how you live your life on earth and how you treat your fellow man, but a brotha needs some roots, I need to know I have a place to go and pray and be among like-minded individuals.

What do you do , maintain tradition or break free and start your own???