desert blossom

I was speaking with a friend of mine about ministering to homeless individuals. A church crowd appeared to have some great intentions of feeding people on the side of the road. Why not bring a van load of sandwiches to hungry people living on the streets?

As I thought about these ideas and remarks, I noticed that some of our ministry ideas benefit ourselves more than they benefit those we are attempting to help. For example, when you are standing by a van filled with sandwiches, you have already set yourself apart from the community you are trying to reach. Though feeding those in need is an admirable task and may prove to be beneficial for a meal or two, it does not get at the heart of the need. My husband recounted a story he read about some men passing a woman on the side of the road. Like others before them, the well intentioned men offered her a sandwich to eat. Looking at her bare feet, she mentioned that she had no shoes to wear. She then asked what made them think that the sandwich would help her feet? They neglected to find out the woman’s most pressing need. In a spirit of humility the man removed his shoes and put them on the woman’s feet. Neither my husband or I know what the outcome of the story was (I hope that I retold it correctly), but the point was clear. Even when we are well intentioned ministers, we need to ask questions to find out more about those whom we are trying to serve.

(more…)

I am reading Brian McLaren’s A New Kind of Christian. I am thoroughly enjoying this book and the fact that it was on the recommended reading list for one of my summer classes. Even so, I cannot help but feel frustrated with my current situation.

Last Sunday I was in a church service. Usually we prayer prior to the beginning of our gathering, which is followed by some additional fellowship as people begin to settle in and make themselves comfortable. I enjoy speaking with people during this time; although, I must admit that I am a bit shy and reserved about meeting new people. Eventually I warm up to the idea and muster the courage to introduce myself. Soon service begins, and we study Scripture as we explore what God would want us to glean from the message. Usually these thoughts are illustrated by the speaker and later elaborated on by the group. Following the message and a closing prayer, the floor is opened for questions and comments from the group. As this time fizzles, we return to our socializing and eventually make our way to the parking lot, usually choosing to meet for dinner in order to continue our conversations. I love this kind of community. I find myself very candid, feeling free to be myself without the concern of condemnation. What is not to love?

(more…)

So, I have been thinking about how we live under grace since Jesus sacrificed himself on the cross. How amazing is that? God loves us just that much.

I envision the Bible as a love story between a creator and his creation. God made us to be in perfect communion with him, yet we screwed it up. Sin entered the world and now everyone is born with this inevitable desire to sin. The Old Testament highlights a lot of ways that humanity has struggled with making a mess of our purpose. Then the New Testament introduces a redeemer so powerful that he alone can conquer sin and its punishment of death. This redeemer paid the ultimate price for sin when he chose to die. Now, creation is able to commune with God again the way it was intended (although this will not come to fruition until the kingdom of God is established).

(more…)