how to find a new church

Pretend you're visiting
a family of distant relatives.

Of course you don't expect
      to get an invitation for lunch
      and all your social needs met
      by a bunch of third cousins.
And it doesn't matter
      that the stairs smell of mildew
      and water stains the ceiling
or that amongst themselves
      they're way too loud and happy
      and hug a lot.

What may catch you by surprise
      even make you want to return
is how the Father you share
      meets you there
puts His gentle but persistent hand
      under your chin
      to lift your face
and meet His eyes
      in theirs.

2005 - VNesdoly