Where's Waldo

The guys in the choir at our new church play a game each Sunday they call, “Where's Waldo?”. Linda decided when we came last September to sit in a different place each Sunday. She wanted to create connections with as many people as possible. Add to this her relatively small stature--and the fact she usually comes in at the very last second--and it can get tough to spot her. So the guys always try to be the first. It's only rumor that the winner gets a red- and white-striped long sleeve shirt.

We probably had our biggest attendance yesterday since coming here except for Christmas and “Zoo Day” (my first Sunday when they wanted to see the new animal). Because she gave the Children's Sermon, Linda sat right up front. I don't know which choir guy won Waldo but I do know this: I could hear her singing. Make no mistake, the singing in this church is enthusiastic. I could hear her because she was so near, not for a lack of general volume.

And it was sweet. So sweet. We love this church. Its people have drawn us right into their circle. Many of them have entrusted me so deeply into their stories it sometimes seems impossible to believe we came such a short time ago. A few of the women have involved Linda in mission volunteering with them; others have become “lunch friends”. To worship Jesus with these people, in our beautiful sanctuary, and to feel welcomed onto the team makes us happy. And what a blessing to hear the only girl I've had for 43 years singing her heart out in the midst of such a healthy, welcoming congregation.

Thank you, God.