Beacon of Moans

The Beacon, Blackburn, which is the current name of the town’s Elim Pentecostal congregation, celebrated its 100th anniversary in the autumn. It shows how time goes quickly when even 'penty' and charismatic churches have become centenarians. Two former pastors and several former elders, myself included, were invited to attend. Although it was rather long (I had to leave after 90 minutes to get to our evening service, which was before the hour-long sermon had even started) it was nice to see some people I used to know and with whom I had shared fellowship.

The pastor had decided to interview some of the old ladies in the church to share their memories and draw upon their accumulation of wisdom. Unfortunately, both seized the opportunity to grind axes and criticise former leaders, some of whom had been invited to that very event (I am fairly sure that I was not one of the targets, but I was sitting next to one who was). This left something of a tense atmosphere and a sense of awkwardness which the pastor did not detect, for he cheerfully carried on with his follow up questions. It seemed a shame that what might have been a positive and uplifting reflection of 100 years of worship and service should have become an opportunity for petty bitterness and sniping.

The temptation to moan is always going to be there while we have a sinful nature and we occupy a place in a fallen world in which there is much to moan about. The Hebrews were often grumbling in the wilderness and it is a weakness of my own, too, especially when dealing with avaricious companies and inept councils. Sometimes it is best to say nothing and just grin and bear.

And in the morning, then ye shall see the glory of the Lord; for that he heareth your murmurings against the Lord: and what are we, that ye murmur against us? Exodus 16:7

A