I met with an old friend yesterday afternoon. We've been discussing, reflecting, arguing and conceptualizing post-seminary education for at least 4 years or so. As of yesterday, I feel comfortable in saying we're out of the drawing room and heading straight to implementation.
I honestly didn't think we'd ever get to this point! To be frank, I had given up on him and on the whole affair.
A lot has happened in the last two years. For those of you who know me well, you know it's been an emotional Kingda Ka. It has also been a time of unquestionable spiritual growth and reflection. I remember sharing with another dear friend how I felt I "missed" God - something that was inconceivable for me in the past.
Between the inconceivable and the incalculable, exists the insurance of God's direction, protection and provision. These may seem to be trite statements often shared with co-pilgrims along the narrow road, but I confess that in my case, they are refreshing and a genuine testimony of where I've been and whence I come.
Throughout this journey, I was disappointed by Christians, especially those in the "prayer" movements. I figured they'd be different and I was sadly mistaken. Prayer movements don't transform, prayer does. Prayer movement folks aren't any closer to God than those who pray under their breath but with greater sincerity struggling to connect with a God who they feel is light years away - but what if. . .
Throughout this journey, I was moved to tears by the sincere struggle of Christians seeking to live the faith in the midst of judgement, pressures of the Christian clique and the "expectations" of perfection from other Christians.
Throughout this journey, I saw my ministry transformed. I thought I was at the top of my "game", surveying the theological landscape in Miami, and in the midst of the climb, I was beaten down into the mire and brokenness of my own life. From the muck of my life, I can see clearly. . . isn't it ironic?
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