Homecoming

By: Larry Jewett

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The hustle and bustle of the world has a dangerous way of transfixing our lives. As we scurry about, going here and there, often with a purpose, our objectives sometimes take precedence over our very being. It doesn't take long for us to realize there's no place like home.

The line made famous by the Wizard of Oz is simple, but true. There is no place like home. In word association, the word ìhomeî tends to conjure up the image of a comfortable surrounding, one that is occupied by those you love. It is your space, a place where you belong.

Of course, home doesn't have to be a dwelling. You can belong anywhere, but the familiarity that goes with it is the selling point that takes it into a special place. That's why a town, a school or a church can be ìhome.î

"There's no place like home."

The general idea of homecoming these days often involves a football team or a dance. While it may be one way to celebrate, it's not how organized homecomings began. In the 19 th century, communities celebrated special days to welcome back former residents. An integral part of the celebration centered around church services as God was praised for allowing these friends to reunite and to allow new friendships to develop. It was indeed a joyous celebration of community. For the record, it was the University of Illinois that applied the concept of homecoming to collegiate football in October, 1910. Now, nearly every school has some sort of celebration, generally in the fall.

The act of homecoming didn't have to involve an entire community. You'll find the homecoming of the prodigal son as a great Biblical example. For those who have loved ones far away, family homecomings, sometimes marked by the removal of yellow ribbons tied around trees or poles, bring joy. Any time someone comes home, it's a reason to rejoice.

This day is joyous as we celebrate our own homecoming. With the culmination of the Spiritual Growth Workshop, we welcome our members home to worship, but it's more than that. There will be former members in our number today and it will bring joy to once again worship together. We're home and there's no place like home..

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