Viral Faith

Redeeming Halloween "It seems like Halloween is a bigger holiday than Easter in this country", is a quote from my prayer partner who grew up in eastern Europe. Its always interesting when someone can see something with fresh eyes that are not conditioned by the repetitiveness of our yearly experiences. The Christian community has been divided in regards to Halloween. Many see it as clearly demonic, with its fascination with death, the occult, and darkness. A second opinon within Christian circles is to treat it as a cultural celebration and just go with the flow. Further still, other Christians see it as an opportunity to demonstrate the love of God, and embrace it. These opinions represent a continuim beginning with avoidance/denouncing to embracing/celebrating. While people along the continuium have valid arugements and sound conclusions, I think we are missing the point of discussion. Take a step back for a moment and consider my prayer partner's initial statemen...

Volunteer Opportunities as Mission USA Today had an entire section devoted to volunteerism. They report that millions of people, particularly those under the age of 40, are looking for opportunities to serve their communities. I think that this is why Jesus often asked people to help him as a means to share the good news of the Kingdom. Jesus, in John 4, asks the Samaritan woman to give him water. Jesus, in Luke 5, asks Peter to steer his boat. Throughout the ages, countless Christians invited their secular neighbors to assist and join them in their efforts to bless the world. There is a growing sense of restlessness in America. The shallowness of possession based identity and the consuming pain of greed have taken their toll. Americans are increasingly looking to be part of something that "matters". Something that gives their lives purpose and gives them legacy. While this is still miles away from the "other" centered love that Jesus modeled, it invites peop...