While talking with a friend a few days ago, something struck me as “blog-worthy.”  We were discussing some reading that I did recently on the subject of Bermuda grass, which is planted in our yard in Cleveland.  Dee and I recently met the guy who installed the sprinkler system in the yard.  He came by to show us how to program the system for regular watering intervals.  Interestingly, I read that Bermuda grass doesn’t need to be watered too often.  One of the reasons for this is that the roots never dig deep in the soil if they are watered everyday.  Going a few days without watering causes the roots to dig for sustenance and anchors the grass all the more into the yard, yielding, in many ways, a healthier lawn.

I thought this quite intriguing as it relates to the Kingdom.  Oftentimes, we attempt to throw off certain responsibilities relating to sustenance (both personal and communal) onto certain “professional” ministers within the local church.  The few.  The proud.  The pastors?  Yet, the biblical witness testifies to a communal responsibility regarding the work of the ministry (see especially Ephesians 4).  And the tendency to rely solely upon the study, sermons, encouragement, visits, etc. of a select few in order to “keep us going” is, in many ways, hindering our spiritual growth (if not killing it altogether).  This isn’t to say that we must go to individualistic extremes, touting “personal bible study” at the expense of community-grounded theological reflection.  However, it begs the consideration of how important it is for churches to embrace the responsibility (priesthood/prophethood) of all believers, not expecting only a few to carry the full weight of ministry.  In many ways, we must dig deeper in God, realizing the importance of our spiritual maturity for the well-being of the faith family.

Blessings,

sdm

We just finished up our last night of the Kids’ Rally held at Alabaster CoG.  All in all, things seemed to go very well.  Our children’s pastor did a phenomenal job with the messages over the last few days (especially tonight!).  What stands out more than anything, though, is the teamwork amongst all the volunteers.  I am grateful for the Spiritual focus, passionate committment and Christlike attitude exemplified in those who labored this week.  It is a tremendous blessing to serve alongside you guys and gals!

Also, it is a wonderful delight to have some of our very best friends (family) visiting with us this week.  AJ, Vicki, Bradley, Dawson and Christian were able to be with us in service tonight.  It’s such a blessing to have them here.  Well, this post will have to be short and sweet, considering I’m a bit fried-eyed at the moment.  Yes, yes.  I know, I know.  Turning the big 3-0 takes its toll!  :biggrin:

Grateful for Jesus’ love,

Shannon

PS:  If you’re curious about the title of the post, I named it after the pie that was smashed in my face tonight at the rally.    :cwy: