This phrase, and the description, “Grumpy Old Man,” are synonymous with Victor Meldrew, though perhaps not so common as when the programme, One Foot In The Grave, was in its heyday.
I felt both descriptions applied to me, one Sunday morning, as I listened to a well-known presenter on Christian radio. As he introduced the hymn, Love Divine, he encouraged listeners to enjoy “the majesterial introduction” and then proceeded to talk over the music so we were only able to enjoy the last few notes. The hymn was sung, not using the beautiful words of our wedding hymn, but the modern approach of changing the personal “Thee” to the more general “You”. As I reflected on my response to what was a very enjoyable programme, I pondered on the expression, “You cannot please all of the people, all of the time” etc.
The church you attend may be attended by a few or a very large congregation, but everyone will be affected in different ways by personalities, performers and preachers. The danger, I sense, is that any adverse reaction -however small – to anything or anybody – is likely to distract us from something that is much more important to benefit from.
May we be aware of the danger of adverse reactions that prevent us from benefiting from Christian fellowship, wherever that may be.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please help us not to dwell unnecessarily on issues that cause our minds to miss important truths You want to teach us. AMEN