Driven to Live the Message...

"When God invades man's consciousness, man's reliance on 'peace and security' vanishes from every nook of his existence. His life as a single whole becomes vulnerable. Broken down are the bulkheads between the chambers which confine explosions to one compartment. When God chooses man, He invests him with full responsibility for total obedience to an absolute demand." Paul Minear

"Persecution drives the persecuted to live very close to their message -- they simply cling to the gospel of Jesus and thus unlock its liberating power." Alan Hirsch

How can we live identify and enliven that absolute message of Jesus so it not just resonates with our souls, but become our thoughts, feelings, words and actions? That my will is the as Jesus'.

I wonder if only persecution cultivates such loyalty to Jesus, or can sheer passion and desire also shape our identity? Whatever it is, there is a gap between the unadulterated story of Jesus, and the rhythm by which our lives move. This interaction sometimes sings in key, but loses its tone in many areas of our lives. How do we stay on mission? I don't believe it is one person's will that initiates the movement, but a few who sacrificially live.

I look to our group and see mini-persecutions abounding (not to minimize real persecution around the world). Are we breaking in such a way that empowers God's creating force to shape us? Will we tuck away and try to discern our own agendas without regard for the voice of community? Is the message of persecution for one, or for all?

These are just questions that are streaming through my mind. Comment if you wish...