"When the days drew near for him to be taken up, he set his face to go to Jerusalem." - Luke 9:51
In reading this single verse, I'm reminded that at times the path we choose is not an easy one. The Aramaic expression, "he set his face," has a meaning of resolute determination, despite any obstacles that may crop up. The path may not be one that we would choose, or one that fits our likes and dislikes. Peter said that when he urged Jesus to choose another path, one that did not lead to Golgotha (see Mark 8:32b-33). Jesus' response was to liken him to the devil!
M. Scott Peck in his book, The Road Less Traveled, describes both the psychological and spiritual nature of relationships. The gist is that many relationships travel the more traveled road which can lead to stagnation in a relationship. His suggestion of the 'the road less traveled' is one on which journey we may find hindrances and obstacles of all kinds, and one which won't be easy. But, he says, it is one of great reward, one that can bring fulfillment in the individual's life and in relationships.
The church more often than not chooses that heavily traveled road. Why? Because it's one we know, and the obstacles we encounter can be overcome, often easily. But the sameness can rob us of the abundant life that God in Jesus Christ has for all believers. At times we may not realize we've taken the road less traveled until we're on it. By that time it may be too late to turn around. So, we adapt, we change our priorities (maybe), and may start viewing this new road as an opportunity to see what God has in store for us. From out of the sameness of life we've embarked on something new.
Over the last few weeks we've been exploring the whole notion of change, or, to take from Peck, exploring the road less traveled. The question may have popped into your mind - isn't it okay to just stay where we are? Can't we do God's work here? The answer is easy: Of course! However, if we settle on where we are, is that really doing the work of the kingdom in response to an ever-changing world? That's a great question. I wish I had the answers, but I don't.
What I do know is that old adage I've used in past columns: The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. Or, to state it biblically, trying to put new wine into old wineskins. I've mentioned changing structures. I believe that is a key component of responding to God's call at this time. How the structure might look is not something I can lay out. Rather, "structure" is something that comes out of much prayer and thinking.
New structure, again, whatever it might be, has one purpose and that is to address ever-changing conditions in this fast-paced, post-modern world. It is about presenting the good news of Jesus Christ in new and different ways, while remaining true to the tenets of our faith, to a world in desperate need - whether they realize it or not - of hearing that word. It may mean rethinking and/or reimagining the nature of church, especially as it's relevant for us. It's not something that will come easy, nor will it come quick. God has set us on a journey, and we have to "set our face" toward God's will and purpose. We don't have to get on board, but the only other option is to be left behind in the station. See you on this incredible journey upon which God has placed us, a journey whose destination we cannot know.
Grace and peace,
Mike
October 5, 2014