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Natural Church Development (NCD) author, Christian Schwarz, has written a book on passionate spirituality.  In this book he talks about the idea that all of us approach God from our own unique aspects.  I’ve been testing this out on a few people, and I think there is a ring of truth to this.

My own approach is one of discipline in reading and studying the Bible and related theological works – that naturally leads me to God.  Others love to enjoy nature.  Still others get involved with people and find God in the midst.  Others systematize the Bible to create a systematic theology.  Others are mystical.

With all these approaches, and others, there is still a need to express this spirituality to others.  My understanding is that all of us who are Christians are a part of one body.  In that sense, we all work together.  We fight a common enemy, we encourage one another and we hold each other accountable.  It’s that part of accountability that makes it imperative that we have a way of showing others how we are doing in our pursuit of God.

And for that reason, we may find a poet who quits writing is in a dead space in their life.  A theologian who abandons his desire to write or expound or explain God is also in the midst of abandoning the pursuit of God.

For each of our own sakes, may we strengthen our approach to God and may we seek to help others to do the same!

Our seniors group met today with 50 out.

They are a varied group, gathered from churches around town.  They enjoy our times together.  We provide a spiritual connection along with some very practical stories (things from bee keeping to missions trips).

Today was an opportunity to hear from our local Anglican priest.  He is just new to town and so we invited him to speak.  He shared his story – one that was personal and mature – he’s my age so has seen over a 1/2 century of life.

As the time finished he blessed us and I trust that God will indeed fulfil the intent that we will have peace and God’s face will shine upon us!

The other day I was preparing for a sermon.  In my research I ran across a phrase which continues to run through my mind.  I’ve begun to mold it to form my next series of sermons.  And I would love to have you thoughts or comments on what your first thought would be.

“We need to eat the meat of the Word of God, drink the fresh water of worship, and feast on the fruit of prayer.”

Five headed under today. 

The stories of their lives were all unique.  Those who encouraged them to head under said much the same things but with different emphases. 

The main thread?  God has called you to this next step – enjoy and live what God calls you to.

The baptisms were great!  Hopefully more to follow.