What a lovely service this morning at First Presbyterian in Carbondale. Pastor Meg discussed something that is at the crux of dissatisfaction in many churches. Many congregants feel unseen. This malady is not just in churches; it is in life. When I was the manager of the housekeeping department, which had 400 people, I had an open-door policy for everyone in the organization. No appointment necessary, if I were in the office, you could walk in, and we would talk. Student staff, as well as full-time often needed someone to listen. I heard of many illnesses and domestic issues, as well as being someone who took the time to care. Many friends cried, as did I on occasion. We live in a people-packed, lonely world.

University Chancellor Jo Ann Argersinger projected to everyone that they were vital to the success of SIUC. Not by rote, but by compassion and a refreshing genuineness. She walked into the middle of a field being mowed by a Grounds Worker and shook their hand and visited with them. Soon, we understood that Jo Ann saw us and recognized our value. No longer was it us and them; it was a team with a compassionate leader.

At times, the story of Christ does not capture people’s hearts because they do not see it reaching them. We see Jesus in the love and acknowledgment of us and where we live. I want to follow you, Christ, if you showed me him by seeing me and hearing me. Throughout my life, I have been compelled to go where I was wanted. ‘I do not care how much you know until I know how much you care about me.’

Millions follow the current President because they believe he cares about them. Perhaps we should blow the dust off the books of theology and practice, visiting the lepers, the blind, and the homeless. We church folks wonder why our churches do not fill up with our dynamic message of Christ. We go where we are wanted. We go where we feel seen and a part of the mission. We seek eyes that see us.

‘I attended church this morning at First Presbyterian,’ Chet said. ‘The pastor greeted me warmly, and her genuineness was overwhelming,’ Chet noted. ‘I knew I was not a face in the crowd, she was interested in me as a person,’ Chet continued. ‘It has been some time since someone was interested in me for who I am,’ Chet observed. ‘I felt seen as many members of the congregation shook my hand and looked me in the eyes, they saw me as a unique individual,’ Chet laughed for joy. ‘The eyes say much more than words convey,’ Chet said softly. ‘The people reminded me of Jesus and all that I read about him; they loved me for who I am,’ Chet said with a tear in his eye.

‘Another day of hot grass mowing and no one seems to care about my contributions,’ Grounds Worker Albert thought as he wiped the sweat from his brow. ‘I have seen many Chancellors go into the Stone Center to meet with the University President and then come out without ever looking my way, although I wave often at them,’ GW Albert mused. ‘Who is that little woman walking through the field in her high heels?’ GW Albert asked. ‘She is smiling from ear to ear, and she indicates that she wants to speak with me,’ GW Albert noted with dismay. ‘I have not met a nicer person she wanted to know about my job and asked about my family. She told me how vital to the success of SIUC I was,’ GW Albert said with a tear in his eyes. ‘She invited me to Anthony Hall to visit with her in her office,’ Albert laughed for joy.