Reminders

Today’s post seems simple. Almost too simple. Yet, I realize that I often over-complicate life in such a way that basic concepts of the Christian life are lost. A few of those concepts: purpose and joy.

Today’s post seems simple. Almost too simple. Yet, I realize that I often over-complicate life in such a way that basic concepts of the Christian life are lost. A few of those concepts: purpose and joy.

The last few weeks have been spent learning my new job: organizational history, vision, tasks, etc. It would be easy to explain it away as fun and exciting. These descriptions are accurate. Yet is has also been a challenge and intimidating to step into a role and industry that is completely new.

Yet, here are a few vital and motivating observations from my short time at the organization:

Men and women are caring and ministering in amazing ways throughout the United States, without attention or glory, in poor, under-resourced communities, both rural and urban, that desperately need to see the gospel. These families, by and large, live in community, with believers and unbelievers alike. Their lives are sacrificial yet joyful and time is not spent in idle pursuits but with the intention to further the kingdom of God.

A passion for Christ and the kingdom of God exists in these men and women that I have not seen in most Christians.

Most of the men and women aren’t seminary trained. Some are professionals. Many are not. They would not consider their lives unusual but purposeful.

Why haven’t we made similar choices?

Why don't we share the same passionate lives?

Many Christian are reading and attending conferences to learn and discuss “how” to live incarnational, missional lives that serve our neighbors. The men and women I recently met have accepted that at some point they must move beyond preparation and learning and are doing and being this reality.

It is easy to live within the routines we have established for ourselves.

It is easy to pride ourselves on study and preparation when, at its core, it reflects a lack of faith.

May we intentionally step out of “normal” and push ourselves to truly extraordinary lives of love and service, to God and others, not for others but as a response to our love for Christ.