Jim April 25th, 2007
(last night i received this email. hope it is an enouragement to you as it was for me.)
Jim,
Just read your book, Divine Nobodies, and laughed out loud at how God put me in touch with a kindred soul. Sometimes I go browsing at the local bookstore, and a book jumps out at me. God threw yours at me. For the last 4 years, I’ve been where you’ve gotten, and it can be quite lonely. I was on a quest for about 7-8 years for something different, more vibrant, than what I grew up with as a Believer. Four years ago, I found it in total release to life with Jesus. (had a health crisis) Oh, I’d believed in Him since I was 9, but never totally let go to experience that Love that really passes all understanding. I started loving those I’d never loved and started really seeing people, from the checker at Wal-Mart to my own family, as those loved by Him also. WHAT ABSOLUTE, TOTAL FREEDOM!!!!!!
But, it can be a lonely life, with those you love not “getting it.” In all my searching and questioning I’ve finally learned that it’s O.K. to know what I know and that I’m to share it when He says to.
I’ve never quite understood “quiet” time, structured worship, the need for so many programs that keep the sheep busy but don’t always feed, or why more Christians aren’t ecstatically joyful. I often wonder what the Christian world would be like if we had just continued to do it like the disciples did, without all the trappings and buildings, just groups getting together to remember Him with the bread and wine, sharing and caring, and going out into the world to do just that, care. I think God must laugh at us, with a tear in His eye, at our religious messes.
Two things I particularly like in your book. I too was touched by attending an Episcopal church (having been brought up in the Southern Baptist) where I felt part of the worship and got to experience communion every time I went. Some of it I don’t get either, but I love the kneeling and reading of lots of scripture.
Then at the end you warn against becoming critical of the established churches and too proud of having “found” the way. I was right there, until God reminded me of how long it took to teach me this way of knowing Him.
A friend and I have breakfast once a week at this little diner. We talk to “our” waitress about her life, etc. It’s so much fun to get to know people. Isn’t that what Jesus did? Ate, drank, and was merry with all kinds of people.
This morning, sitting on my patio, I saw God everywhere – in the squirrels scampering through the trees, the birds pecking on the ground and swooping through my space, wind chimes playing, greens of the trees, and my dogs panting in my face for attention. I was wrapped up in a blanket, drinking my tepid coffee, and thanking Him for all that glorious scenery and His presence. It was worship in its purity.
There are those who point out to me that worship with others is necessary for their support. It’s what the scriptures say to do. But, you know, I have a few friends who believe as I do, so I do have that support.
I’m with you – bottom line is it’s all about Love…
While being an overnight host at a church that is part of a network to house the homeless, I had a conversation with a homeless man last night about whether God brings on tragedy to “teach” us something. Even in his situation (he also faces back surgery soon), he said that he doesn’t believe God does it to us but that He gives us the strength and peace to go through it. Those sure made my whining time seem very insignificant.
There was also a beautiful young woman with 3 boys who was practicing a song to sing at church Sunday. She sang it for us, with a sweet, sweet spirit. Jesus was there in these 2 unfortunate people, and He was shining, reminding me of how blessed I am to have met them.
It’s all about the ordinary people, isn’t it, Jim? If the “church” hadn’t gone the organization route, we’d all be meeting in homes to worship, praise, share, and help. I go to 3 different churches but don’t take part in any of the programs or activities, because God has me doing other stuff. But, my best, most favorite(for now) time with Him is in my bedroom chair, on the patio, or riding my motorcycle in the countryside.
I think there are a growing number of us seekers, and God will lead us to one another.
Peace to you, brother
(photo by WasPhantom)
