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Getting Closer to Jesus

As we get closer to Jesus, the things that illegitimately have influence in our lives get dealt with.  Of course this is a process, and we go through it many times.

In some ways it is simpler, easier, and more comfortable to keep a certain distance from the Lord, especially if you intend to maintain compromise or are listening to and being influenced by other things.  Selfishness is one of the chief motivators that makes us want to maintain a distance from the Lord.  All of this thinking is based on the deception that you are better off without coming into complete surrender.  This idea steals from us more than we can realize.

It takes courage to come close to the Lord, which causes turbulence and drags your stuff out into the light.  For those who overcome this resistance and discomfort, the reward is beyond imagination.  Take courage today.

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Defining Reality

Leaders define reality for and guide the values of those they lead.

How is this true? Are you comfortable with this?  Are you comfortable admitting this as a leader, as a follower?

This was recently brought to mind when talking with a friend who returned from a weekend trip, very excited and clearly influenced by the time and it's leaders.  Here is another way of saying it:  Those who have influence provide ways of thought and sometimes rules of thought/interpretation for those who receive their input.

Does that seem more real to you?  It's the same thing.

Continue reading “Defining Reality”

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Navigating Transition

Don't get the wrong idea….. I am all about knowing the future in advance.  That needs to be stated plainly, especially in light of what I am about to say.

Clearly, we are in the time of a significant shift.  Many are feeling this and sensing it.  Some of those who have been sensing it for a while now have set out to define it.  I appreciate their well-intentioned efforts, but i also believe there is a real danger in trying to define this time, and the time that lies just ahead, with incomplete perspective. Continue reading “Navigating Transition”

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Escape From Christendom

Escape from Christendom
by Robert Burnell, 1980

The Journey

In my dream I see the lone figure of a man following a road. As the sun sets
beneath the hills, a city comes into view. Nearing it, the traveler sees what
appears to be a large group of churches. Spires and crosses pierce the
skyline. His pace quickens. Is this his destination? He passes an imposing
structure, a neon sign flashing “Cathedral of the Future.” Farther on a
floodlit stadium supports a billboard boasting that fifty thousand people
crowd into evangelistic meetings there three nights a week. Beyond this,
modest “New Testament” chapels and Hebrew Christian synagogues
cluster together on the street front. Continue reading “Escape From Christendom”