Sunday

Good day - visited Portland Avenue Church of Christ this morning. It was a very traditional CoC service. People we met were all very friendly and happy to have us there.

Got to take a nap this afternoon (kinda), Kylie was climbing all over Emily and I the entire time, but I think I dosed off for a couple of minutes in there somewhere.

Had our first small group meeting tonight. We had 8 people come. The topic for discussion and meditation was Romans 12:1-2. Which I would summarize like this:

"In light of all that God has done for you - give everything to him, even the mundane things of your life. Turn all your daily activities over to the Lord.
Stop letting the world dictate how you live your life. Allow God to change you from the inside out - only then will you be able to know and understand what he has in store for you and what he is up to in this world." (NRAV - New Revised Adam Version).

Missional

Had some interesting dialogue with my father-in-law the other day regarding Missional. Like him, I am growing weary of the word. It seems to come with so much baggage (things that encumber one's freedom, progress, development, or adaptability; impediments).

Having said that, here are MY thoughts on missionality and living a missional life. As a side note, I didn't get these things out of any book, although I probably did! (Got it? Ok)

Being missional is:
-no longer seeing the things I do as either spiritual or physical. We don't live in two realms. Christ is King over everything and every aspect of our lives!
-being intentional about finding and developing relationship with "not yet Christians."
-inviting people to partake in a kingdom life - and not the "life of the church."
-removing any and all obtacles that would impede someone from hearing the clear message of "the kingdom is at hand."
-preaching Christ only - the resurrected Lord.
-beginning to understand that all followers of Jesus have in effect "entered the ministry." We are all full time disciples of Jesus - yes, even if you didn't go to seminary, and aren't a paid minister. We are all missionaries.
-inviting your neighbors over for dinner or play - spending time with them.
-being friends with non-Christians - even knowing they may never come to faith in Jesus.
-seeing Christ as the perfect example of what it means to live in our world, and defining your life by this fact.
-finding yourself increasingly uncomfortable with the "status quo" of religion.
-"seeking first his kingdom and his righteousness" and acknowledging and participating when you see that kingdom breaking into the world.
-understanding that mission isn't a program, but God allowing us to join him on HIS MISSION!

Men's Retreat Video

Just so you can take a look if you haven't already seen it.

Fantasy Football

Draft day is tomorrow. The Louisville Rednecks have not faired very well the past few years. I can't remember if I have ever had a winning season. But just like the start of any season - optimism is in the air! Who knows, this year could be my year to win the Central CoC fantasy football league. Wouldn't that be something to brag about!!

I don't miss church

Here is a link to a blog that describes a lot "stuff" I feel. Click, read and be challenged. I would be interested to hear comments, if you so choose.

The Pursuit of Christ

After some late night conversation with Isaac and George I think I am beginning to understand, for the first time, Jesus' call to "follow me." Being formed in the image of Christ is downright painful at times. So I am left to wonder - what/whom am I pursuing? Is it truly Christ, or something altogether different? What am I willing to "leave behind" in this pursuit?

So I will continue to journey on with a clear vision - but no clue how to get there. I will continue to struggle with my own selfishness and the light of Christ. I will continue to search for truth -

Bourne Ultimatum

 
Emily and I will be looking for a babysitter soon to catch the newest installment of Jason Bourne in "The Bourne Ultimatum." We really enjoyed "The Bourne Identity" and "The Bourne Supremacy." After reading some reviews it seems we won't be disappointed with the last in the trilogy. The movies are very entertaining.

Had dinner with the Keene's and Ezell's tonight. It was an enjoyable time - good to see the kids. Isaac and I again talked about our "dreams" of getting to do what you love everyday and still being able to support a family. Seems like such a pipe dream to me - especially since I have a hard time answering that question. What do I want to do when I grow up? I will surely let you know when I know.

We have supper club tomorrow, so we will be getting together again! Looking forward to it.