Timidly, I stood outside the large, wooden door. Taking a deep breath, I pushed it open. A quick glance around the room confirmed my worst fear: the circle was already full, no room for me.
Immediately these Bible study ladies moved chairs, making room for a new member: a new Mom with a new Bible and a new heart for Jesus.
I was terrified.
What happens when they realize I don’t know the Bible? I’m not even sure where to find all the books! I hate to come and just take, but I have absolutely nothing to offer, no great parenting or Bible study tips to give. Oh my gosh, what happens if they pray aloud? Oh, please don’t ask me to pray before a group!
The assaults of negativity almost jumpstarted my paralyzed figure right back out that door!
But instead, I sank into a newly placed, proffered chair. I let the warm smiles register and peace filled me.
His peace.
Jesus promises, “For where two or three gather in my name, there I am with them.” Matthew 18:20. (NIV)
And He was there, in the midst of that crowded classroom above the church’s sanctuary. Conversations flowed. Ladies shared their parenting tips and their hearts.
Nothing was expected from me. They were just pleased I had showed up.
When Scripture was read, they discretly occupied their gazes elsewhere as I located the right page.
And prayer? Only those who felt comfortable prayed aloud, public speaking was not required to be part of this group.
Thirteen years later, in another state, I knew how to find Bible verses. I felt comfortable praying aloud. I was encouraging of new Bible study members and knew where to find extra chairs.
Yet, once again, I stood outside a large door, about to enter a Bible study. This Mom’s Bible study would be my first as a leader.
Oh, I recalled how I felt the first time participating. I didn’t want to place any expectations on anyone. I just wanted them to feel welcome. I breathed a prayer to Jesus, inviting Him in, asking Him to help me get my excited self out of the way and let His peace reign.
Because He was what we needed more than anything; much more than anything else any of us could share.
“Where two or three are gathered in My name, I am with them,” He promised.
If you recognize yourself in the younger me- if you feel drawn to learn more about Jesus, His plan of redemption and His gift of grace, I encourage you to find a church. A Bible-teaching, people-loving congregation that is truly trying to be the hands and feet of Jesus. You could even start online. But as you feel comfortable, please go in person. You should find people who don’t care if you aren’t comfortable praying aloud or fumble a few minutes before you find a passage. You should find a welcoming community that not only reflects Jesus, but has His presence in their midst.
Maybe you resonate more with the more mature me, stepping out and leading for the first time. In your exuberance, remember to invite Jesus, you’ll be blessed indeed! And thank you, for steeping out! We need more leaders, more encouragers, more people who are willing to love and serve in this capactity!
Wherever you are, will you join me in recalling His promise, that no matter where we are in the group with others, Jesus did promise He is with us, where two or three are gathered in His name. Take a deep breath, smile, and let His peace fill you. He is there, and He will lead you as you step out to find Him.
Prayer: Dear Lord, Thank You for Your promise of when two or three are gathered in Your name, You are there. You know when we are nervous and anxious whether joining a new group, studying Your word when new to us, or stepping out, leading for the first time. Lord, Your grace covers our mistakes and missteps. Help us to welcome all and help them meet You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.