Reflections from Habitat, The Pre-Season

Last night we kicked off our first gathering of Habitat Christian Community as we got together at Pioneer Park, Room A. It was a meeting with people, largely friends, who have expressed interest in being a part of this new community of faith. Some are newer to the area and haven't found a church, some have moved here to be a part of it, and others simply haven't found a place to call home yet. Last night, everyone seemed to be on the same page.

Mark and I, my brother-in-law and the best associate I could ask for, shared our hearts on the Gospel and how it transforms the individual. We taught Romans 5:6-11. Perhaps the most useful analogy that we used in wrapping up was this: When we are reconciled into God's family, adopted and given the family name, we cannot just sit around and wait for our inheritance. We're adopted into God's family and then as a love response to God, we take up the family business. We become agents of reconciliation. We become salt and light. We join Christ in the work of reconciliation.

Overall, I was thrilled with how we taught (tag team, verse by verse, concept by concept). I was moved through the worship response...thanks Charlie and Rebecca, and it was great to hang out for dinner after wards with Habitat.

Last night I saw the very beginning of the realization of something that I have been envisioning for the past four years. Honestly it was both extremely fulfilling and left me wanting more.

There have been a few times in life I knew I was made for this moment. Moments that felt surreal and at the same time compelling and confirming. Those that come to my mind are when the doors opened at the back of the church where Erin and I got married and I saw my bride for the first time while standign in front of our family and friends. Another was the first time I held my son and felt his skin against my cheek. Last night, sitting on a stool and sharing my heart with a group of people who were not obligated to come together, it felt right.

I've preached and have spoken to larger crowds. I have the opportunity to converse with people of high influence and more money. Last night, while worshipping my God, Lord and King with these young families and recent graduates, men and women in transition from their 20s to 30s, I could think of no place I'd rather be.

For the ears: Grace - U2
For the mind: A Celebration of Disciplines - Richard Foster