John the Baptist and other Visionaries

Oh, man! I do NOT know what to make of this!

For background, our church has entered into another perennial transition. As part of this transition, our 31st Anniversary service was preached by the new Executive Director of the UFMCC. Her sermon was excellent!

Scott and I picked up this person at the airport, then took her out to eat with most of the members of our Board of Directors.

MCCs around the world do communion differently from church to church. However, one of the things I've seen that seems to be consistent is that when one goes forward to receive the eucharist (both 'species', by intincture) one is prayed with/for if one wants. At first, as a 'catholic-in-exile', this practice was pretty odd for me. Now it's quite normal. I digress.

I went forward for communion to the Executive Director Sunday. During the prayer (and this is what I don't know what to make of) she indicated that I reminded her of John the Baptist because of my passion and drive.

Oi. This is the guy who lost his head early in the ministry of Jesus, ate locusts and wore itchy clothes. I guess we do have some similarities. He lost his head, and I'm told I've lost my mind.

I told the director, as I drove her back to the airport, that I draw the line, though, at eating wild locusts (or tame ones, for that matter.) She suggested I be careful where I draw the line... God has a funny way of getting us to step across lines... especially if WE'RE the ones who draw them. Oh, and I prefer silk to horse hair ANY day! Or even cotton. Or wool... as long as it's the soft kind.

And, hey, aren't I a little old to be setting out on some kind of wild-eyed mission?

Aren't I?

Please. Please say I am too old. Please?