Church

I've been thinking a lot about church lately and what its all about. It started with a conversation with some friends about looking for a church that fit them. I'm not sure what that really means, but its a statement that many of us have used when looking for the "right" church. 

The church we belong to can be very telling of how we participate in life with God. It will shape and many times dictate how we are involved in ministry. So finding a church that can help us go deeper, challenge our understanding, grow in our love for God and others, extend our reach, and also care for our needs is a daunting task.

I read a book a few years ago that shaped some of my ecclesiology (the study and theological understanding of church) called The Local Church Agent of Transformation. This book was written from a Latin American perspective about the qualities that the local church must have to be prepared to take on the task of being "salt of the earth" and "light of the world." 

One thing I know about church is that none are perfect. And no one model is perfect. It's not easy finding a church that fits with your personality and comfortability and at the same time is "missional" meaning; the church is  investing in kingdom work outside it's four walls and building up those who are already within the community of believers. 

I've been fortunate to be a part of Mosaic a faith community that works hard at trying to do this. Like I said no church is perfect, because the people involved are imperfect. But I believe Mosaic desires and constantly tries to be salt & light. 

Here are a few other communities that I've visited or read about that I think have the same heart:

Quest Church: Seattle, WA

Cornerstone: Simi Valley, CA

Mars Hill: Grandville, MI

Simple Way: Philadelphia, PA (not a church but communities living on mission)

{DISCLAIMER} There are many churches and communities that are kingdom minded and are doing amazing things in their communities as well as globally. I don't think you have to be a large church or have flashy websites to communicate this message. Although the four communities that I highlighted may have some of that. 

Raising Daddy Tip of The Day:

It may not be wise to stick your finger into baby's mouth to see if they are teething. Ouch!

Surprise!!

Surprise a new MacBook!!!!

I was speechless.  I must have looked and sounded very silly as I thought about how big a gift a new laptop was. Really I never know what to say in situations like that, when the gift is so "over the top" that you don't know how to receive it or express your gratitude.

Lisa and I gathered family and friends together to celebrate my graduation, but also to thank them for encouraging and supporting us throughout this crazy seminary journey. I didn't expect them to get together and buy me a MacBook as a congratulations gift. I was thinking ,"maybe they'll get me a cake!"

To all who chipped in, all I have to say is WoW! I don't know why God chooses to put such amazing people in my life. I get to share life with people who are generous beyond imagination. And to everyone else who couldn't make it to the party or got me other great gifts I thank you also.

I ran out and bought the new aluminum MacBook on Monday and my buddy Mike came over to help me break it in. Very exciting. 

Thanks again everyone!

Raising Daddy Tip Of The Day

If you let the little ones run around naked after bath time make sure you keep a close eye on them. Peeing on a power-strip can make daddy's heart stop. And who knows what it can do to Jr.

Graduation Day!

It’s the morning after my hooding ceremony, when they recognize me as a “master.” I think to my self, “A master of what?” I have not mastered anything about God or the spiritual life. I know that I have been “mastered” through this process. God has put me through the fire, burning away so much that I had thought was absolutely true about the Christian life and adding into so much more life then I could imagine. I walk away with the thoughts of the tremendous burden I have been given through the seminary process. I’m reminded of Luke 12:48

But someone who does not know, and then does something wrong, will be punished only lightly. When someone has been given much, much will be required in return; and when someone has been entrusted with much, even more will be required.

I’ve been entrusted with so much knowledge and thousands of dollars of scholarly training. It’s a scary reality kneeling in front of family, friends, and the Christian community while my mentors, professors, and the seminary powers that be recognize, affirm, and endorse my scholastic efforts. I have been entrusted with much, and I know more will be required of me.

The big question is, “Now what?” I have no idea… Over the last few years at George Fox Evangelical Seminary I have learned to loosen my grip and step aside. I have dreamed, schemed, and made plans only to realize that much of it is out of my hands. Yes, I have a responsibility to move forward and put myself in positions so that things can happen (being stagnant is not a good option), but ultimately my prayer is always, “Your will be done.” It is God’s will that I want completed in my life. I must hold my plans loosely in my hands and not force things to happen, because I may not know the best things that Christ has in store for me. For the first time in my life I am comfortable without knowing the future. I don’t feel like I have to make something happen for myself or for my family.

Lisa and I have decided to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. Each day we will ask, “How do I serve you today Lord?” Each day there is new possibilities to glorify Him. Each day he will direct our path. Each day he will reveal His heart and his desire for our lives. And each day we will know what the next step is.

Thank you to all of you who have journeyed with us through the seminary process. I am so grateful for your love and encouragement.  Life was not meant to be endured alone and we are so blessed to live life with you.

 In Love & Gratitude ~  “Master” Joel To 

Raising Daddy Tip Of The Day

Bring cookies, snacks, and quiet toys to Graduation or any other formal ceremonies. Kiddos love pianos, tripods, and many other potentially embracing equipment.