Knowing What to Want

We need to go car shopping with #2 son very soon, if not sooner. There are few criteria to meet: economical, low-profile, big enough to stow musical gear, and enclosed rather than an open bed truck. Two-door coupes are out along with taller, smaller SUVs. But other than that he doesn't know if he wants new or used, how much he can spend, what he likes, and most importantly, when he can physically go searching. Of course my main concern would be cup holders, duh! Wouldn't a salesperson love to tell us what we want?? Actually, we are probably the worst kind of potential customer, fresh on the lot with no direction, no experience, and guarded against the one lucky enough to ask the questions. Car shopping is pretty rare in our family, but even simpler decisions can bring a potential night out on the town to a sudden stop.

"Where do you want to eat?"
"I don't care, where do you want to go?"
"I don't even know what I'm hungry for, you decide."
"Well, I know what I don't want, but I don't know what I do want."
"Do you want to just stay home and eat a sandwich"
"That would be cheaper."

Somewhat eerily, this same conversation could apply, with few modifications, to congregational discussions, or even spiritual growth inhibitors.

My prayer for the congregation?

Dear God, We know that you can whet and fill our hunger, even when we don't know what it is that we crave. We are grateful for the buffet you provide. Let us be adventurous to taste boldly and fill our lives abundantly from the ample, creative and thoughtfully prepared table of communion. Let us prayerfully question what your desire is that we should want. Like a pregnant craving, let us continue naming the desires of our heart that will supply the needed nutrients to our newly created life. Let us seek out, and not be turned away, until we can name that which you have set as a treasure for us. Let us be clear in direction and vision. Let us know precisely what to want. Amen.