Holy Fool

Here are my predictions.

If the Church of the Nazarene is to survive the shock waves of globalization sweeping around our world Americans within the denomination need to surrender their dominate positions within the church in favor of a growing and globally pluralistic power structure.

The next reformation will be the reformation of the 'outsider' of the 'other'.  This non-western reformation will tear down the grip of colonialism and prestige that many in the American churches wish to preserve.

We must humble ourselves, and assume the role of guide as our brothers and sisters begin to own the leadership and direction of our global denomination rather than fight it.

We Americans must have the humility to see ourselves as only a part of God's global mission field and be willing to accept aid and direction from foreign missionaries where we have lost our ability to navigate our own culture.

Where we have wrongfully assumed that our nation is specifically blessed by God for leadership we must repent of our arrogance.

We must strive for local impact informed by a global focus and mission.

If we continue to ignore the signs of the times indeed our time is short.

Today I received what was probably was one of the best compliments I have ever received.  I am participating in a Bible study with some individuals that are exploring the Christian faith, but aren’t committed.  At one point they said, “I can really tell that you guys follow God because you want to do it.”  That about made me jump out of my chair, but I kept it collected.  I wouldn’t want them to think I am charismatic or something…

Moving beyond the legalistic gospel of ‘have-to do it or fry’ is an awesome place to be, but even better when someone else recognizes it in you.  I have never been a big fan of fear, uncertainty, and doubt as far as evangelical tools go.  I find that faith’s seed is planted deeper and in more lasting soil when it is born out of a desire to participate in God’s best for us, not dread over the worst of ourselves.