Apprentice 2 Jesus

Sometimes I wonder of Christianity is something “less than advertised.” Maybe we worry too much about how we look. As a pastor, it gets tough at times thinking about how to “attract” people. Especially believers. Our church really needs mature believers, and when we get people coming through, it seems more of, “What can I get out of this,” rather than, “What can I do for this church?”

Sometimes it can really feel like a game.

What needs to happen in my heart is a determination that says, “I am hungry for God. I want others who are hungry. I will teach and be faithful and stay in pursuit of God, and then let others join me. If you’re hungry, you’ll feel welcome!”

I can’t report any big numbers. I can say my soul feels more satisfied. My gifts have always been to teach and pour out to others. Right now I can sense that happening, though those numbers seem to stay pretty small. But those who come are seem hungry, too.

LECTIO DIVINA

Spiritual Reading. I have been challenging people on spiritual reading. It’s very simple and feeds the soul. It is one discipline you can put in the tool box. Develop it. Practice it.

1. Read a passage aloud.

Let the Word slowly work in you. Don’t just glance through and think, “Oh, I’ve read this.” Reading aloud helps slow it down.

2. Meditate.

Think it over. What is standing out to you? Any words or phrases? Turn it over in your mind.

3. Pray
As things come to mind, turn them in prayer to the Lord. What is the Spirit challenging you with in this reading?

4. Contemplate.

Rest. Don’t speak. Let what the Lord has done settle it in your spirit.

Let the word of Christ dwell RICHLY in you!