On Benedictions

I have always loved the benediction at the end of a worship service.  It is the great challenge and encouragement offered to the faithful as they are pushed out of the church doors and into the world to live the lives to which God has called them.  It is the final note - like dessert at the end of a four course meal.  Have you ever felt that?

This past week a fellow student asked if I would offer the benediction in the divinity school chapel service. I was happy to oblige (especially since a favorite pastor would be offering the sermon in the same service).

As I drove the hour-long drive down to school this morning, I thought over what I might want to say to send my fellow students out into the world.  I thought of the friend who needed hope to make it through the day.  I knew she might need me to speak directly to her this morning.  Then, I thought of the many friends who, like me, needed a reminder to love not only God but themselves in order that they might begin to love their neighbors and their enemies.  I thought of the times when we all struggle to find peace through our faith or courage in accepting our call.

As I drove thinking of specific faces and stories, the benediction for the day slowly came together.  And, as we sang the last verse of "Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah," I stepped up to the podium to address the very real needs of our family.  I turned to the choir and saw the face of my friend in need of hope; I turned to the right side of the chapel and saw the face of a friend who struggles to love herself; I turned to the left side and saw a friend who is still searching for peace in the midst of trouble; and, I surveyed the collective face of my divinity school family and saw the longing for a gentle reminder of God's call on each of our lives.

After the benediction found its way out of my soul and into the hearts and minds of my divinity family, I received my sending forth in the form of hugs, words of affirmation, and tears in the eyes of my very dear friend who needed to hear exactly what was spoken through me.

I am never more humbled than when God uses me despite of me - despite the frustrations I have with my ministry, my inability to do everything, and my own lack of confidence in my ability to lead and minister to others.