Though it goes without saying that spiritual growth must be intentional, it is something to which we all need to redirected. In terms of the development of our integrity, character, and spirituality, nothing good happens by accident. We must be intentional, even purposeful, about spiritual growth. This is true at the congregational level as well as individually. It is so natural to live a reactive life. We go through our daily routines, dealing with the problems of the moment, chasing the pleasures of the day, all while time ticks by. Occasionally, we give thought to the larger course our life has taken, recognizing areas of needed change, but are quickly distracted by the daily routines, problems, and pleasures.
The great evil we face today is not something loud and disturbing. The evil we face is this culture within which we live, even thrive. It is not disturbing, it is comfortable. It is the most natural of environments. It is the purposeful product of an Evil One who does act recklessly, but rather, is very calculated and intentional. The Evil One does not panic when we think holy thoughts. He is well adept at lulling us back to that slow, steady grind, where our potential lies dormant.
The simple point I would make is this: we must follow-up our intents with specifics. We must get to that point as individuals and as a congregation where we do something. We cannot put it off! We must drill down to the basics and make a concrete change. Jon said in the sermon last Sunday, “I am sick of talk.” I can say personally that I am too sick of talk. I am most sick of my own talk. I find myself speaking to deaf ears even when I am talking to myself.
Can you relate?
Tuesday, October 24, 2006
Intentions to specifics
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4 comments:
Yes I can relate and I'm sick of talking about being sick of talking about it!
I can most certainly relate to talking to deaf ears. No one wants to hear the word "change" when it involves them.
Jennifer
I have chewed on this one for two days. I agree with your comments in the first sections, I believe that the devil lives for complacency in our lives and in churches. When we spend more time talking and never get around to the doing I think we fall right into the devil's hands. Planning and organizing are very important but words without actions are meaningless. I think that is where you were going.
Your last section seems a little negative, again I know talk can become a little rhetoric but we have to start with a plan. I am pleased with the direction and the emotions that have come from the elders. And I believe that there is a different feeling in the air at church. A more positive vibe and excitement. Sometimes narrowing your focus down takes a burden off the decision making and makes things easier. Also the call for excellence, gives a more tangible goal for one to strive for, I am not saying that we did not strive for that in the past. But with the expectation being set it gives a more congregational goal. To me it helps when I am being held accoutable by my peers. If my peers expect excellence it puts more of a challenge on me.
I am not saying that I am not motivated by The Word, but it is easier to navigate this world and avoid the pitfalls, if we do this together.
Am I close to what you were getting at or was I reading to much into?
Aaron
Communication is good.
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