A drifter is defined as a person who is continually moving from place to place. Those who fit this description are referred to as a transient, vagabond or wanderer. Individuals who fall into this category often do not develop permanent meaningful lasting relationships. Without a good reason to stay, people drift into new communities hoping for a place to call home. As America has lost its sense of community within cities, neighborhoods and towns, a growing number of nomads have a emerged, disconnected and unknown by the person next door.
Now there are [distinctive] varieties of spiritual gifts [special abilities given by the grace and extraordinary power of the Holy Spirit operating in believers], but it is the same Spirit [who grants them and empowers believers]. 5 And there are [distinctive] varieties of ministries and service, but it is the same Lord [who is served], 1 Corinthians 12:4-5.
Over the last two decades, a new classification has been added to this term, spiritual drifters. When someone enters into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, finding a church that meets your spiritual needs can be difficult. Larger congregations can be superficial, challenging to connect with a mentor who understands who you are and what you are going through. Smaller churches offer a more intimate setting, but if you don’t share common interests, developing a close bond rarely occurs. Thus, countless Christians go church hopping, visiting new places each weekend, searching for a place to call home.
And there are [distinctive] ways of working [to accomplish things], but it is the same God who produces all things in all believers [inspiring, energizing, and empowering them]. 7 But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit [the spiritual illumination and the enabling of the Holy Spirit] for the common good, 1 Corinthians 12:6-7.
As a former elder in a church for seven years, I’m the last person you would expect who would become a spiritual drifter. Yet, for the past seven years, my family and I are still in limbo. Initially, we spent a few years attending a small church that served as a time of healing after Red Lion was sold and disbanded. My two youngest children found a great youth group for two years until that church suffered the same fate, closing it’s doors to sell their property. While each family member has a favorite, none of us have been blown away or sensed the Holy Spirit say this is home. Thus, for now I continue as a spiritual drifter, hoping that one day soon I can stop watching, connect and become an active member of a church again.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 