Flight and Faith - Part I

Recently, I traveled back to the East Coast for two conferences in a 10 day period. Here are some observations about airline travel and church.

1. People I - all ages, races, and economical status fly on airlines. If I'm honest airlines model what heaven looks like in this regard more than churches. Question #1: Why are churches in this great country segregated (0r disproportionate racially) when there are great pastors leading them? I'm very passionate about loving the Lord and telling people about His love for them. I have to admit I'm very passionate about churches not reflecting Heaven in this regard and Christ followers appearing not to care about why churches are this way. I've been fortunate to attend and/or work on church staffs that have diversity. I'm currently on staff at The Church at South Las Vegas. This is an issue that needs to be addressed from a leadership position. I'm willing to offer solutions and not just point out a problem.
   
2. People II - seat assignments. I would say I'm an outgoing person but something comes upon me when I'm on a plane. I noticed my first mechanism is to withdraw and avoid eye contact and "God-forbid" body contact. On a flight home I was assigned the last seat in the back of the plane (44A). I was told the flight was full, but 44B was still empty. I was home free with no one sitting next to me...so I thought. Moments later I was face to face with the person sitting in 44B. His first words were, "I guess they're putting the big boys in the back." My next thoughts were, "OK ~I know I put on a few pounds lately, but who are you calling "big boy." I answered "yeah that's right." The flight home was cramped but I purposed to enjoy the flight and get to know my BBF (Big Boy Friend). We had a great conversation and it made the 4 and 1/2 hour flight enjoyable. Question #1: Why do we avoid new people in church or avoid developing new relationships? Let's slow down and make eye contact and say hello to people. It could make the difference in someone's day.