Mark Katrick faith column: After a month of proverbial showers, 'May' the Lord be with you
To write this column, I’ve borrowed frequently from the name of this fair month, the fifth of the year, the one that is known to bring MAY flowers after April showers.
Do you know when someone is seeking permission to do something or the other, how he or she says, “Can I do this?” or “Can I do that?” Well, what ever happened to, “MAY I do this?” or “MAY I do that?” Is it just me, or do people no longer pose the question in this manner?
The “Can I’s” seem more like a rhetorical question than a polite request — like staking a claim as to whether you have the ability to attempt and complete a certain task. The “MAY I’s” are more a matter of deference and respect, as a child shows a parent — like saying, “Mother, MAY I?”
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If you’ve ever been involved in a youth overnight, you MAY recognize this expression as an “Ice Breaker” that helps the kids from different churches get to know each other a little better. The basic rules are that someone is chosen to be the mom and stands at one end of the room. Then, the rest line up at the other end and take turns making requests that conclude with, “Mother, MAY I?” The first one to get across (with Mom’s permission) is declared the winner.
The older we get, pastors like me MAY develop a basic resistance to icebreakers and overnights. Perhaps it’s because of the countless times we’ve been “volunteered” for (and lost a good night’s sleep) taking part in these kinds of events. There’s nothing like spending the night on the hard floor of a fellowship room in a sleeping bag. Yet “sleeping it off” the next morning in your own bed brings a fresh and new perspective.
At a new pastors retreat, we experienced a rather unique approach to getting acquainted with our colleagues. A big block of ice was wheeled into the meeting area. Then, after saying our names, where we were from and what we like the least about openings at retreats, we got to hit it with a hammer. Ice went flying everywhere! (Please don’t try this at home, kids!)
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It wasn’t the politest of conversation starters. But it was an excellent release for the discomfort that new situations MAY bring. (It MAY start by having to fill out name tags with markers that MAY never stay on, a prerequisite at church-sponsored events.)
The best way to begin any activity is by using common sense; allow personal space, ask appropriate questions, be good listeners and genial in conversations. I can see Jesus encouraging his disciples to take this kind of approach with the crowds that followed them, wherever they went.
It’s much the same when we prepare for a conversation with the Almighty One. Even though God already knows your name, treat it as if it was for the first time; take deep breaths, keep away from the distractions, block out negative thoughts and feelings and lift up your concerns and celebrations. Before you know it, your prayers MAY and more than likely will be answered.
And the best way to “Break the Ice” is by saying, “Father, MAY I?” with all the deference and respect a Heavenly Parent deserves.
Mark Katrick is a pastor and spiritual guide.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Mark Katrick faith column: May the Lord be with you this month
