Rolling out the red carpet

Durban Airport. August 25, 2008. 6:50 p.m. It's been a long time, my friends, and over a year later, it is now coming on Spring in Durban. My eye caught a glimpse of Roger-the-crazy-man- Scholtz - my kindred friend and pastor - through the frosted glass of the baggage claim doors. At least I thought it was Roger - he was turning around and walking in the other direction, out of view. Knowing that it would just be too much to have come so far and see more without being able to reach out and hug these people who are so precious to me, I skirted around the corner and got as close as possible to the baggage unloading, practically praying those bags out of the rubber-flapping door. Over a year of paperwork and prayer, revolving around within me, as I eyed the bags flipping out one by one. And miracle of miracles, it seemed barely a moment passed before my burnt orange duffel fell out, followed by the other two bags holding two years of home's sustenance.

Amazed by my own energy after about twenty-two hours lofing in airports and airplanes, I chucked the bags on a cart (they're free in South Africa...), and sped out the door only to find my eyes landing first on Janice, my loving South African mom, then Christy my sister, and Candy and Phelo, and on, barely noticing Sue flashing pictures, as she said merrily - you're just a blur, I can hardly get a proper photo! And then, Gareth and Roger - supervisors, but always first colleagues in ministry and dear friends - the only two I had expected at the airport. I cannot say how joyful these moments were. These people have been in my thoughts and prayers every day since I left them last. Who, but God, could have imagined that such joy could come out of such grief? I had thought after leaving them in tears last, that I would be unable to control my tears upon seeing them. And yet, I can describe no other feeling from this meeting than absolute, full joy. It was like seeing family. It is seeing family. I have never been one to use the word, "merry," other than in the context of Christmas - it reminds me too much of cheery, rosy-cheeked, whistling elves - but that is exactly what we were. Cheery, cheeks a little worse for the wear in exhaustion, but whistling, smiling spirits, and laughing faces. I hardly knew where to look first, trying to drink in everyone's expressions and voices.

I turned around, however, and saw the strangest sight - Roger, approaching the baggage claim door and carefully rolling up the long roll of carpet that led up to it. Yes, yes. He was rolling up the red carpet... Brought especially from Manning Road in the boot of Roger's minivan and rolled out for my arrival. I must remember to be careful about the ways that I tease Roger - it only incites action for his imagination. But, it was quite ironic, actually. The red carpet is the bride's carpet - the one that goes down the center aisle of the church at Manning Road. Early then next morning, I awoke to hear the housekeeper, Clarabelle, cleaning in the room next door. When greeting her, she asked how long I was staying. I replied - two years! She said - Oh! You will be married to the church!

That may not have been what she meant... But, I could not help but think that it is true. I am married to the community of people that we call the church. And, it has been a merry wedding, indeed. For better, for worse, I am more than delighted to be joined in a holy covenant, as one of the pastors of Manning Road Methodist Church. I think I hear the Trumpet Voluntary playing just now...