Jesus Cropped from the Picture

Jesus Cropped from the Picture

into his church was increasingly difficult. We spent the weekend trying to articulate what we both were experiencing in our local church settings.

Like many people, Brian was tired of the institutions and routines that seemed to block a refreshing life in Christ. He was worn out from endless programs and practices that did little to draw people close to Christ. Despite my best effort to encourage Brian, I was not much help. I was discouraged myself, and frustrated by my inability to identify the sources of our consternation. I said goodbye to him at the airport, departing without resolution.

On the flight back to Los Angeles, I determined to get to the bottom of this issue. Experiencing Brian’s dismay changed my perspective. This was no longer theoretical. It was personal .

So I started a headlong pursuit of prayer, study, and dialogue. I tried to hear from everyone I could. I pleaded with God to help me understand. During the last half of 2005, my discouragement deepened as I noticed friends growing increasingly bored and withdrawn. I was sinking. I hit bottom in December 2005 at a Disney stage production of Beauty and the Beast. 7

Sitting with my wife and two sons, I was deep in thought. I asked myself, “What is it about the American church that produces such shallowness, superficiality, and church-hopping? What are the cultural

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