The Front of the Bus, The Back of the Church, and the Center of Attention

Where do people want to be?

When it comes to public transportation, most want to be at the front of the bus, where it's easy to get off. When it comes to church, many want to be at the back, where it's easy to get out. And when it comes to attention--well--most want to be right at the center.

That's just a little mixed up.

I am not saying any of those are wrong. It really doesn't matter where you sit on a bus or in church. And if you are naturally charismatic and people are drawn to you, you are going to find yourself at the center of attention. What makes anything wrong, or right, is your attitude and intention

If you are a front of the bus kind of person, why? Is it because your stop is the next one, or because you have trouble walking down the center aisle? Then by all means, look for that first seat. But if you think you deserve that seat, or are entitled to it--that's a horse of a different color.

Have you ever sat down in church just to have someone come and stare at you like you've taken their place at the dinner table? I've even heard of people being asked to move. Um, excuse me--you're in my seat. In church. Where you sit in church really doesn't matter. Unless, of course, your goal is to avoid talking to anyone and getting out of there as quickly as possible so you can move on to more important things. Then it matters. Then it matters a lot.

Motivations matter.

When it comes to our actions, the what is not as important as the why.  Whether you sit in front, in back, or right in the middle--it doesn't matter. Unless. Unless you think, by some obscure hierarchy known only to the enlightened, you deserve that spot of honor. Unless you think, by some divine appointment ordained by God,  you should be the last one seated and the first one to leave. Unless you just like attention. Then--then there's a problem. And it probably comes down to a simple, and ubiquitous, five-lettered word:  P-R-I-D-E.

Think about it.

The next time you get on a bus, or walk into church, think about why as you choose your seat. If you are honest, the answer may surprise you.