Stop Scaring The Children

I can't tell you how many kiddos ask me fearful questions about the world...because of what they hear fearful or angry adults saying. Understanding the issues we face is fine, but I too would love to step into the world of some and yell, "STOP SCARING THE CHILDREN!". Especially in the context of Jesus' story and the reality of hope and joy and peace and love!!! Fearful brains don't search out and create solutions...love-driven ones do. God says so, science agrees...get movin'. :)

 

Boyd Interview...Exclusive Religion

King Of My Heart

Science Mike

I went to hear Science Mike at Woodland Hills Church for his presentation on how modern science and faith can co-exist. He has an interesting story of losing his faith (in the OT angry God) to become an atheist. Surrounded by all the facts imaginable, he found himself longing for meaning. His search lead him to faith in a loving God as represented in Jesus Christ. He's a total science nerd (which I say as a compliment), so his insights and research into all kinds of topics were delightful. His talk was followed by a Q&A with Greg Boyd...yep, totally loved that. :)

 

I miss Brennan

I miss him so much.

 

Safe Cultures

Very good. One general question/struggle I have is...what if the "container" is shame-free but some people within it can't stop defining THEMSELVES by shame and thus sending it out to others? We can sometimes cry "you are shaming me!" when in reality it's self-generated perception and projection. Hmm...how to change? Love this video though. Powerful, powerful, powerful.

 

The Power of the Testimony

So powerful. Share your story...change the atmosphere. :)

Video Blog 17 - The Power of the Testimony
"Listen to testimonies, share them- you'll change the atmosphere where you live...Testimonies are important because they are stories, stories of God’s nature. They reveal His heart, they reveal His person, they reveal what He values."
Posted by Bill Johnson on Friday, April 8, 2016

My Personal Hedgehog...

I met with a pastor a couple of weeks ago for a bit of orientation before a speaking engagement in his church. In the process of discussion about the vision of their church and how they identify their decision-making parameters, I found myself taking notes for myself! I know it comes from business resources to guide companies in their decisions, but the Hedgehog Concept really spoke to me (book "Good to Great"). Of course, I can't completely apply the business model to myself or even a church/ministry, but it can give me great suggestions for how I could decide my involvements in the future.

Looking for the "sweet spot"...

So the Hedgehog for me is defined as three of my greatest passions/values that tend to pull me towards action. According to the concept, where those three intersect are activities in which I should invest my time and energy.

My three core values??? Here goes...

First, relationship. For me this includes what fosters greater encounter with the Divine and creates opportunities for community with others.

Second, empowerment. This would include whatever allows transformation and release into authentic identity and destiny.

Third, ownership. Because nothing should just feed the self, this value would include what encourages people to invest, serve or be generous.

Maybe it's simple to others, but I've needed a bit of guidance on how to make some decisions regarding what I invest in (and potential career or ministry focus changes). It's been a bit of a lifesaver.

Freedom

Oh my gosh. We've been in a terrible trial of late...nothing we caused but a situation that was dumped on us. Quickly discovering there wasn't one thing we could do to straighten things out, I can't even begin to describe the feelings...sigh.

But today...oh my goodness...we found out it is finally over.

Of course, we have the fallout from the event...some of it, I'm sure, will be permanent...but for a moment I find myself feeling FREE.

Even though we walk through the valley of the shadow...He is with us.

Love Takes Action

Completely agreed. :)