This week, I talked about the contrast between what are often our expectations of what a life as a Christian looks like and those of Jesus. Think about the two words "abundant life." Do you expect your life to be abundant? Have you experienced life as a Christian to be "more and better life than you ever imagined"? What do you think Jesus meant by those words. Do you think he meant them for you (not a person like you, but you personally)?
I got an e-mail in response to last week’s Next Step (I love e-mails by the way) from someone who wanted to discuss my thoughts about God’s authority over all that happens in our lives. They reminded me of the quote that they had heard, “if your theology doesn't work in Darfur, it doesn't work,” and inquired how the notion of God’s Authority can be explained in the context of a place like that. A great question, one that I think we always need to ask, and one that is applicable to the question of abundant life as well.
I believe these three things: 1. That the Bible promises abundant life -- a better and richer life than we could dream of -- for all who follow him; 2. This promise is a promise for here and now as well as on the other side of this life; and, 3. If your theology doesn't work in places of deep and dark suffering, it is not a correct theology. How can all of these three things be correct? If you think they can’t, why? (let me know). If you think they can, how?
This week, I talked color as an aspect of abundant life. I stressed how God wants us to be filled up with color, pouring that color into the black and white or gray places in our world. How might you allow God to fill you with color? What are some of the gray places that you see around you each week? What are some ways that you might bring color to them?
If you process and act on these steps, you will experience God. When you do, tell somebody about it – and let me know too.
Peace Hope Love
Doug
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