Poppin' the Clutch

How many of you out there learned to drive in a manual-transmission car?  Maybe you had an old standby VW Beetle.  There is a finesse that is required to smoothly operate a stick - whether 4, 5, 6, or more gears.  I've always loved cars and driving, but I remember those first few attempts at trying to get the car going with out the engine cutting out, or jerking the car so badly the radio popped out of the dashboard. Being new with a clutch meant I needed to practice - over and over - in order to work out the kinks (usually the kinks in the riders' necks!). Fortunately, the more I drove, the smoother the experience was.  

Recently, I offered a 'first' sermon at my new church appointment - Spruce Pine United Methodist Church. And although I got great feedback from the folks there (who, by the way are wonderful), my first Sunday felt like I was poppin' the clutch of a 1972 Bug.  I wasn't quite sure where to stand or sit, when to stand or sit, and I wasn't familiar with the nuances of the order of service.  Thus, it felt like a clunky ride that morning.  

Fortunately, the people of the church are very understanding.  They know the feeling of being the new kid, or being in an unfamiliar situation.  All of us have our 'first' days - all throughout life.  They assured me all is well, and all will continue to be well.  

So I embark ever-deeper into this next chapter in our lives.  And I know the more I drive - the more I get to know the area, the people, and the nuances of the church services - the smoother the ride will be. In the meantime, here's to enjoying the clutch-poppin' experiences that make life fun and shape us into who we are!