iCrucified

 We do.

I often wrestle with the concept of “reaching the lost” (I don’t really like that term or any other euphemism describing someone who doesn’t have a saving knowledge of Jesus)… I best be careful or I could go off on a tangent and an entirely different post that is better saved for another time. Anyway; I have read several blog posts recently that continue to stir my imagination over who we are called to “reach” with The Message. One entry came from Vince Antonucci where he conducts ”mystery shopper” evaluations of churches. Pretty good idea and a great way to get solid, real-world experience and data. I don’t always agree with statistical information myself (call me skeptical) unless I have been able to confirm the data personally or at the very least get some other supporting info. My point though is that his surveys give me more confirmation of what I have felt and believed for a long time. In general, people aren’t getting Jesus and especially the western church. Why do we feel the need to hop around like a fly in a field of cows trying to find the perfect “pie?” I just don’t understand that mentality from so-called Jesus Disciples. I mean really…if I am a disciple, sold out for Jesus, dead (or dying) to self, enlisted in the cause of self-sacrifice and service, why do I need to find a place where the atmosphere is comfortable to me…and/or I get especially engaging and charismatic teaching, and there is a captivating audio-visual experience and blah-blah-blah…? I just don’t understand that. It seems to me we should be concentrating on making disciples, stressing “walking as Jesus walked” -(1 John 2:6)- and living with integrity that always honors God…I mean really putting out the “I believe in Deuteronomy 6:5 vibe.” I think Perry Noble  gives cred’ to some of my thought, but I believe it goes deeper than his post too. I have been convinced for some time what the answer is and I often get the reply that “it’s more complex than that…” but with all my heart, I believe “i” Crucified is the answer. Problem is that people don’t want to die to their own plans, goals, ambitions, self…whatever – - – and it is EXACTLY what Jesus calls us to do; period. I think…with all my heart…that leading by the example of Jesus (self-sacrifice and single-minded mission of the Father) we will change the world to be more reflective of His Kingdom. It means trusting Him to every divine moment and second…walking closely and intimately with Him to know His heart…and being obedient to answer His call, even unto death whether that death is figurative or literal. I intend to live this way regardless of whether I master the concept or not, or if it ends up being the death of me.

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