Script #108

Beloved,

Last night was so pleasurable and painful for me as I watched Mass Appeal with friends, family members, and saints (see below).

It was so pleasurable to be with folks who get it/Him.

It was so painful to hear...see...know...

As I approach this weekend of encouraging people to deepen their relationship with Jesus alone to open up His Holy Spirit in their lives in Sunday morning worship services, a memorial service for Bob Sanford on Sunday at 1:00 p.m., and  an ordination service for Janet Potter at 3:00 p.m. - all juxtaposed to the pleasure and pain of last night - I find myself thinking of our dearly departed Bob Hecox who often asked/warned, "Do you know what time it is?!"

Do you?

Do I?

Do we?

I believe the time has come to sacrifice - totally as in total commitment - our religion about Jesus for a relationship with Him reflected in our invitational, inclusive, welcoming, and loving vision for the corner of Lincoln and Main being a beacon for Jesus and safe haven for all.

It's happening!

He's happening!

Many new faces are appearing every Sunday and Wednesday and daily at First - hungry and thirsty for an authentic relationship with Jesus and people who love Jesus.

Many more are coming as they hear of a safe place where they can grow with a family of faith increasingly and calmly passionate about intimacy with Him being the foundation of safety, stability, and security during these perilous times.

Our table is not fenced.

Our hearts are open.

We do not seek to control, inhibit, or chain anyone to a religion about Jesus polluted, plagued, and paralyzed by the idolatries of infidelity.

We want everyone to be free in, through, and for Him - to be exactly who He designed our sisters and brothers to be.

To borrow/paraphrase some lines for those who see, hear, experience, and express authentic discipleship (Greg Holden):

    We will not be commanded.

    We will not be controlled.

    And we will not let our future go on...

        Without the help of our soul!

I love you and will die for you.

Most important, He loves you and already has...

Blessings and Love!