its clear that our world is in the midst of something quite extraordinary. from the issues facing the american economy to similar seismic issues of where christians find themselves in an ever increasing world of uncertainty. even though i would identify myself as a conservative in most things…its not so much a political understanding as opposed to being liberal, but actaully about conserving those things that have made our faith great. not about ideology, but about preserving a view that is grounded in a biblical understanding of our part in the greater Story. so the writings of Phyllis Tickle, have impacted my views and so her newest work The Great Emergence: How Christianity Is Changing and Why. Phyllis has an incredible mind and her perspective i think is very helpful to helping us understand the times in which we live. the idea is simply this, it appears that ever 500 years or so there is a major event that has forced the Church to rethink some things. we are living in such a time. she quotes a episcopal bishop suggesting the church in these 500 year events ends up having a “giant rumamge sale” of sorts…a shedding of those things that trap and limit us. its clear to me that we are having to rethink all that we are as a free people and how we live our lives. the economic issues have not even really begun to settle and how the Church responds will be interesting to see. we are in a new and different season that is very exciting but will require those that follow Jesus to engage in a new way. what fun. you can find out more about here book here.
i know i’m seeing in our most recent series with the students on “developing spiritual habits” a hunger to be shown how to grow and better understand their faith. from the quiet-time journals to simple bible study resources (all available from our friends at simply youth ministry to even a recent evening of silence and “waiting”. all are offering a sense grounding in this “upheaval”. we’ve launched a mid-week small group and the words this week were “this time is the best thing that’s happened in my journey”. very encouraging things indeed.
one final thought…rose heard the newest title cut revelation from third day on the radio last week and told me to check it out. i realized we had gotten the cd but hadn’t really listened to it. i popped it in the cd player last week on a journey to columbus…WOW! the words seem to echo much of what many are experiencing. check it out yourself here.
Give me a revelation
Show me what to do
‘Cause I’ve been trying to find my way
I haven’t got a clue
Tell me should I stay here
Or do I need to move
Give me a revelation
I’ve got nothing without you
I’ve got nothing without you
