Reality continues to press in on me.... transition time at the church.... events that have been on my calendar for months .... and now some family matters that are calling me to attention.
Yesterday it was gratitude that was oozing out...even spilling over.
Today it is abiding hope... energized and empowered by all that was given last week.
One of the main points of the seminar was that the traditions and history of the church inform us (and form us) in ways that root us as we proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. At the same time, we are called to reach out beyond our "walls" so that all may hear the message.... the mission field is calling the church to courageously explore new ways to articulate and manifest the gospel.
Beyond our walls, there is a growing number of people who claim the badge of being spiritual...but not religious. They seek and find places and spaces to exercise their inner life...places like meditation centers, support groups (yep...at places like Panera!)centers for inner peace. However, they avoid the "church" because they see it as a place where judgment, intolerance, and hypocrisy prevail...and where much of the worship and fellowship is (and this is a big OUCH!) superficial, lukewarm, and anemic. Even if they enter our space, they drift away saying, things like "I don't see that Christians have any real answer to the deep longing or restlessness or fear that I have!"
At the conference, the presenters challenged us to look at ourselves as church leaders and take our spiritual pulse. What do people see (or hear) when we are gathering together in community? Are we joyful? Are we energetic? Are we filled with the richness (like iron rich blood) of the Holy Spirit? Or are we, as they say, shallow...lukewarm...and anemic?
Do we proclaim an invitation of welcome that is absolutely compelling? And do we generate an excitement that engages others in the amazing Hope, Love and Joy of Christ?
Do we set aside our own fears, frustrations, doubts, so that our gatherings shimmer with the certainty and solidarity?
As for me...I know the only way I can do that is through daily, sometimes hourly return to the Lord of my life. Our leaders emphasized the importance of the individual's commitment to prayer...the kind of prayer that presents ME before God...the kind of prayer that says: Here I am, Lord. Mold me...move me... I WILL follow. I want to be energized and excited about what we can do together...wherever and with whomever you lead!
Hmmmm.... enough musing. I better get on my way of this day!
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