Life Update

Hello dear reader.

I've neglected all of you. I have not written. I'm not sorry about it.. it just hasn't happened. I do miss all of you.

So, here is the update of the blog, for your consumption.

I have moved. Tucson is but a heartbreaking memory. Chicago now fills my vision, my thoughts.

I'm out here in Elgin, IL (its a suburb - like Marana, but without the cowfolk...). For those that don't know, I will be attending this fall at Judson College with a focus on Inter-cultural studies. Tuesday, I start a new position with an old friend. I will be in the Mobilization department here at International Teams.

Revolution by George Barna - Part 3

Webster, not one to succumb to societal pressure to exaggerate, defines a revolution as "an overthrow or repudiation and through replacement of an established government or plolitical system by the people governed." It adds that a revolution may also be a "radical and pervasive change in society and the social structure." [p.11]

Already 20 million strong [p.13]!?! A "growing sub-nation" within Christian society. Is it really possible?

... Revolutionaries are embarrassed by language that promises Christian love and holiness but turns out to be all sizzle and no substance. [p.14]

That rings deep with me. Just before this, Barna says that Revolutionaries are not impressed by degrees and Christian colleges and seminaries that are produce graduates who are "incapable" of devoting their lives to others or of defending the Bible. As I prepare to enter into a degree program this fall - I am paying close attention to that.

**tangent** For those wondering, things look like everything is on track for me to be enrolled for the fall semester at Judson College in Elgin IL. Hopefully working at International Teams.[I should know more in days.]

By the end of this second chapter Barna warns Revolutionaries to "count the cost." He parallels modern day Revolutionaries to the prophets of old. He reminds us how Jesus was persecuted.

The mere presence of Revolutionaries makes the typical American citizen - yes, even the typical churchgoer - uncomfortable. [p.16]

Thoughts? In the next part I will outline what Barna calls the seven passions of Revolutionaries.

Revolution by George Barna - Part 2

Here were my initial thoughts, if you missed it.

I have been thinking about this book all week. I have had the chance to discuss it with several people (only one had read any of it, and that only after I was talking about it).

I just want to highlight some of the points that I am beginning to take away from the book. Many of you (in Tucson especially) know that I have been discontent with my local church for some time. There are a few reasons for this, and that may be fodder for a future post, but I still don't think I understand the reasons well enough to fully digest at this time. I certainly have not approached the leadership in regards to these concerns, and that is my fault alone. So, before I go ripping into my longtime church home - I need a more balanced outlook on the subject. That said - I feel a large disconnect from my home church.

The first chapter of Revolution illustrates two men who have both walked away from their home churches for nearly identical reasons. They are in similar stations in life, and are friends who meet at least once a week. In approaching their disconnect, they took different paths. David, chose to keep up his spiritual disciplines, and continued searching for ways he could bless others. Michael simply "chose to call a truce with God and simply get on with life, sans church." [p.2] David is representative of a Revolutionary Christian.

They are not willing to play religious games and aren't interested in being part of a religious community that is not intentionally and agressively advancing God's Kingdom. They are people who want more of God - much more - in their lives. And they are doing whatever it takes to get it. [p.7]

Michael is representative of a backsliding Christian; he is losing touch with everything spiritual by walking away.

He loves God, has prayed that Jesus Christ would save him from his sins, and believes many biblical doctrines. But Michael's life is more about living for Michael than it is about living for God. [p.8]

Barna goes on to say...

The United States is home to an increasing number of Revolutionaries... The key to understanding Revolutionaries is not what church they attend, or even if they attend. Instead it's their complete dedication to being thoroughly Christian by viewing every moment of life through a spiritual lens and making every decision in light of biblical principles. [p.8]

The first chapter introduces you to who a Revolutionary is, and proclaims loudly to all Revolutionaries...

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Thoughts? Questions? Let's talk.

IJM >> Sharon Cohn

I'm listening to the latest Relevant Podcast. [listen here, its an embedded mp3]

Its absolutely stellar (as always, dear readers, as always...), and this issue is especially amazing because it has an interview with Sharon Cohn from International Justice Mission.

The podcast is over an hour long... skip to 9:50 to get the beginning of the interview... its about 11 minutes long.

Subjects touched on: trafficking, slavery, justice, getting involved.

**UPDATE:: 26 May 07 ::**
The back half of the podcast deteriorated into meaningless banter. Funny, but pointless. After the 'in studio' performance of Jonezetta, go ahead and stop listening. That is all.

The Third Way.

Maybe, as followers of Jesus, we are called to be people of the third way. People who transcend categories, stereotypes, and extremes. People who are not owned by one ideology, perspective, or party. People who rise above polarization to find creative, compelling ways to bring bits of heaven to earth.
[taken from ben irwin]

This is a bit of a fresh perspective on a well known verse for me. (Matthew 5:39-41).

Thanks Ben.

I head down to Elgin tonight to hang with some ITeamers. This morning/afternoon will be spent with Stacie Shopp sightseeing in the city here.

Thoughts of Revolution still bounce in my head.