Can't have nothing nice
"Can't have nothing nice." That was one of the claims my Grandfather would often raise. I think he was right. The other day I bought a shirt on sale that I really liked. I thought it made me look like a professional preacher, for I felt like I was ready to play golf. If you haven't noticed, the golf shirt has replaced that drab black clergy shirt ministers once wore. Well, like my Grandfather would say, "Can't have nothing nice." The third time I wore the shirt I spilled bleach on it when I was trying to clean something. My accident ruined the front of the shirt. "Can't have nothing nice."
Well today at church a family that has begun coming to church really tested my patience. I don't understand why parents are afraid to discipline and control their kids. I know some kids require extra grace, and sometimes kids have bad days just like grown ups; however, that is no excuse to allow your kids to have free reign at Church.
Some folks will say that people don't know how to act in church. I really don't think that is a valid excuse. If you walk into church you can see that most people aren't running around, children aren't climbing all over the altar rail, banging on the piano and organ, and messing with the altar tables.
As the pastor I want to model hospitality, but there is a limit to my tolerance. The parents' weren't too concerned about their children's behavior. I almost lost it, but I remembered the words of my Grandfather, "Can't have nothing nice." I realized this wasn't my battle and decided to let the family that donated the items that these kids were playing on to address the issue.
I guess I might have to teach a course on Church etiquette. I think the first lesson will be "Go ahead and realize, you can't have nothing nice."
posted by Hugh @ 8:23 PM
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