“What church did you say you belong to?’
The question caught me off guard.
“Mennonite Church Canada,” I responded, and
continued to explain that we are a Protestant denomination.
“Oh, I know the Mennonites,” interrupted
the US Border Patrol Officer. Then he continued to question me about some of our
theological positions. I was a bit alarmed, not anticipating that a theological
debate would determine whether I would be allowed to board the plane.
“I am just talking with you,” explained the
Border Officer. But he held onto my passport and fixed his gaze on me as well.
“I know the Mennonites,” he continued. He explained
how the Mennonites were good people who believed in service and helping
others.
This is not the first time I have
experienced such accolades for our perceived peaceful character. But this
conversation was different. The Border Officer also proceeded to explain
Anabaptist history to me. I was about to give him a passing grade, until he
credited Menno Simmons with the selfless act of Dirk Wilms, pulling his pursuer
from the frozen lake. He did seem to
know a great deal about us. I almost suggested that maybe he should become a
Mennonite as well. But he still had a firm hold of my passport.
The conversation ended and he wished me and
my family of faith God’s blessing and wisdom.
Each time such a conversation occurs I am
left feeling somewhat overwhelmed. We do have a good reputation. Such a
reputation has been formed by generations of faithful living and humble service
to God.
To accept the benefit of a reputation is to
also accept the accompanying responsibility. It is a responsibility to our
past, present and our future. A good reputation bears accountability to our
past. The sacrifice and testimony of past generations requires a consistent
display in the present if the reputation is to remain intact.
But a good reputation is also accountable
to the present. The repute of our current faith movement requires the on-going
display of generosity and self-giving service.
This is a not a responsibility unique to us
as congregations and individuals in Mennonite Church Canada. It is a common
responsibility for all who claim to be followers of Jesus Christ. A cynical
secular society demands more of faith movements. The integrity of service,
generosity and joyful sacrifice is the only platform acceptable for faith
claims of redemption, restoration and salvation. No matter what we say, or how
we say it – the hearing will only come through the experience of radical, self-giving
love. This is how the Word of God came to us.
I often shudder at the responsibility of living up to the expectations modeled by
those of my past and present community. To be a church
that bears the reflection of Jesus Christ is not an easy endeavour. Jesus is rarely restrained by rules. He
rejects stereotypes and prejudices. He never plays it safe. But a church that
resembles him is a church that awakens a divine hunger in all who experience
it. The character of our engagement with life today will either solidify or
erode a good reputation of the church.
May we continue to be a family of faith
that will provide generations of commendations for our children and their
children – so that all who speak of us wish to bless the God we serve.
