I feel I will spend a lifetime continually learning things about myself. I have come to the realization that I am energized by brainstorming about new goals, activities, solutions, how to make something more attractive, business ideas, etc., etc. On one level this is fabulous because I cannot recall a time of boredom, on the other, it is lame because I would prefer to be fueled by putting ideas into action rather than the mere thought. I suppose the good news is this can be learned. With discipline and organization of thoughts I can carry more ideas into action. This idea was reinforced with my completion of Bob Goff's book Love Does. The title is wonderful; simple, yet, straight to the point. I think one thing that (especially among a generation plagued with apathy) will set Christ-followers apart from others is action. Not talking about love or speaking of ideals but demonstrating it each day in what we do.
I think people within the church speak this message often, yet it seems to fall of deaf ears. Why? I think people are tired of local churches pouring their energy into programs and cute ideas to attract a crowd. I pray we are challenged to examine scripture to see what the purpose of the church is. It's frightening that we consider a church that takes a few mission trips a year as being mission-minded.
I am not interested in people's attendance or activity in a church's weekly events. I am more encouraged by those who go above and beyond to demonstrate love to people they encounter. For those who go out of their way (often inconveniencing themselves) to show love to another. People who make themselves available, these are the ones often going unnoticed, but have tremendously influenced me and challenged me to be more like Christ. Let us move our thoughts into action and seek to get involved with those often ridiculed by others.
