The fourth pew

I often speak of those old familiar Sundays that carried us to the fourth row of the sanctuary and then back home to rest or change for the ramblings of the country roads we knew so well. That was the rhythm of our growing years, although there were seasons when Sundays slipped into the fabric of a busy growing family.
Even in the days we did not make it to the pew, faith quietly held its place in our hearts – guiding us, shaping us, and never letting go. And yet, no matter how far life carried us, we always found our way back. Back to the fourth row, back to familiar faces and voices, back to the rhythm that reminded us who we were, whose we were, and the steady love that anchored our hearts.
Scripture offers countless examples of those who wandered but ultimately returned to God’s presence. Consider the story of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11–32. He left his father’s house in search of independence and freedom, only to discover the emptiness of life apart from home. Nonetheless, when he returned, his father ran to meet him with open arms, reminding us that God’s love is never exhausted, never withheld, and always ready to welcome us back.
Or think of the Disciple Peter, who denied Christ three times in a moment of fear and weakness (Luke 22:54–62). Peter’s failure could have defined him, but he returned, humbly, and was restored to his calling. His journey reminds us that missteps do not disqualify us from God’s grace – our faithful God meets us when we turn back, ready to shape us for the purposes He has always intended.
Even David, though he strayed into sin and faced the consequences of his choices, continually returned to God in repentance and worship (Psalm 51). His life is a testament to the mercy of God, and to the truth that the heart seeking Him will always find its way home.
Each of these stories – the prodigal son, Peter, and David – shows us that wandering is not the end. And just as God’s love guided them, it has been present throughout your life as well – gently calling you back, shaping you through every season.
No matter the seasons of life, the same steadfast love that guided the prodigal son, Peter, and David continues to meet you today. Perhaps you have had days of absence, or seasons when faith felt quiet – but God’s hand has never left you. Even in our wandering and distraction, God’s love quietly shapes us, beckoning us gently back to His faithful embrace. His love is patient and unwavering, ready to meet you wherever you are.
Throughout your journey, there have surely been gentle reminders of His presence – moments that drew you back and whispers of His faithfulness patiently guiding your heart. His steadfast love does not depend on your perfection or the regularity of your attendance; it rests in His unchanging character, shaping and calling you to return again and again.
And now may be the time to take the next step: to the old familiar pew – your fourth pew – to reacquaint yourself with the Lord. Not a leap, not a hurried return, but a small, intentional movement toward the One who has never let go. You may have a ways to go yet, but each step is met with the same steady love that carried you in childhood, that held your parents, and that has been faithfully walking with you all along.
“Come near to God and he will come near to you.” James 4:8

Cheryl Mixon-Cruce is Pastor of Ochlockonee Bay United Methodist Church and Sopchoppy United Methodist Church.