Peace on the Little Pigeon River

 July 5 we headed to Pigeon Forge, TN for the kids' dance nationals. It was our third year in Pigeon Forge and we were already dreading the huste and bustle of the parkway. If you read my last post you know that our summer has been filled with loss, grief, changes, and many days an overall sad spirit. Needless to say, we were not in the mood for overpriced mini-golf, wax museums, or crazy souvenier shops. 

Our first morning in Pigeon Forge was a Sunday and instead of worshipping online with our church from home, I found that First Methodist had a service time that worked with our dance schedule. I made the short drive and found myself, in the middle of the PF Strip, at the sweetest brick church right along the Little Pigeon River. The sign out front told me of church ancestors who had built this little place after the last pandemic and a historic flood over 100 years ago.

Just beyond that tree is the Little Pigeon River

Inside, I was warmly welcomed like a lost friend. Seated in the "Midwest section" among other out-of-staters from Ohio, I was greeted by the pastor and most of the church members. I heard "Glad to see ya" and "What brings ya'll here?" and "So glad you've stopped in today" over and over again. 

Seated on a pew, well worn by 100 years of use, I worshipped alongside those in their Sunday best, those decked out in Dollywood souvenier gear, and even a gal ready for her next work out. We sung old hymns accompanied by a piano and organ that have been used by several generations and worshipped the One who's been here for all time. 

In a church who's mission statement read "...to make disciples of Jesus Christ who worship passionately, love extravagantly, and witness boldly" it was a JOY to commune with them. I typically choose to visit Methodist churches while traveling as they all practice open communion, allowing for any and all to commune with them. As the pastor welcomed all to the table he said, "Welcome All. We care not what journey in life brought you here today or where you are in your spiritual journey just that you are in this space with us today. Because you are here, you are welcome."

During prayers, they asked for names to be spoken aloud

for the church to hold in prayer. I took this as I spoke dear Halle's name

into the silence. In the moments that followed, a congergation of strangers

lifted her name in prayer alongside me.

At the end of service, this church often filled with travelers, acknowledges that many will never worship together or in that space again, and thus they sing "God Be With You Till We Meet Again." Someday, other the other side of the River of Life, we'll all sing and worship together.

Dear Readers, if you have not yet found a place to worship that says "I'm SO glad you're here" or "You're welcome just as you are" - I am in prayer for you! It is my dearest desire that all would find a church home that is warm, welcoming, and inclusive. If you're local to me, please ask about our church home and how you have a place there. 

Dear Readers, if you already have such a church home - are you welcoming all who stop by on their journey? Are you grasping the hands of others, making eye contact, welcoming them in on this day that your paths have crossed?

I have written Psalm 40:10* and Acts 20:24** on my heart and aim to live them daily. Friends, even in this hard season, I am living in faith, in hope, and in the promise that God loves us. ALL of us! God has chosen us to be here in this time, living for Him, and for His people. My goal is to speak Truth, to love big, and to witness boldly that all might know Him. I am thankful for that quiet reminder on the banks of the Little Pigeon River. Amen.

* "I do not kept the Good News hidden in my heart. I have talked about your faithfulness and saving power. I have told everyone of your unfailing love and faithfulness." - Psalm 40:10 

** "I consider my life worth nothing to me; my only aim is to finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given to me - the task of testifying the Good News of Jesus Christ." - Acts 20:24