Thursday, October 17, 2013

The Bubble and the Bar

There have been countless times walking around on the campus of the Bible college I attend where I hear about all of the students living in the "Bible college bubble" or the "Seminary bubble." What exactly is this so-called bubble, and how do we get out of it?

This particular bubble everyone refers to can seem overprotective, sheltered, maybe even dangerous.

What does the Bible say about us living outside of this community and immersing ourselves into a community of lost people?

Let me start by saying everyone has their own bubble. A bubble is the community in which we live where we are comfortable. We know the people in our bubble, we have structure in our bubble, we feel safest in our bubble. The bubble to which I am referring is not necessarily a bad thing. It's good to be involved in a community of believers who love Jesus and are devoted to building each other up (iron sharpens iron). I recently heard a story of a Bible college student who went to a large community gathering in a city about 20 minutes from the campus where he lives. They have a lot of outdoor venues, and the group of (non-Believers) he was hanging out with decided they wanted to go to a bar. This student immediately felt torn. "I signed a covenant saying I wouldn't drink alcohol while I'm here, but am I even allowed to go inside the bar. I don't want to people to know, much less to get kicked out for going in" he thought. He waited outside and chose not to go in just to be safe.

Isn't it sad that a lot of times as Christians we are afraid of what might happen to us if we are caught at the local bar or the part of town where people are known for partying and being loud and carefree until early in the morning? The funny thing is that's exactly where we should be! In fact, from Mark 2 we know that is exactly what Jesus did and encouraged the disciples to do. Jesus, the son of God, who was completely without sin hung out with the sinners and tax collectors. And when the Pharisees asked "What in the world are you doing with these dudes? Aren't you supposed to be better than that?" Jesus responded with "Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners” (Mark 2:17 ESV).

I am a firm believer this is a call to get outside of our bubble, immerse ourselves in the culture without losing credibility in our witness (1 Corinthians 1:12), and take the gospel to the nations (the Great Commission) wherever the nations may be for you.

So what will it take for you to get outside of your comfort zone? Are you willing to hang out with sinners and tax collectors and not be worried 'if my pastor (or professors, or dean, or friends...) finds out will he kick me out of the church/school?' How do we pop the bubble so we can live at peace with all men and build relationships with the lost for the purposing of sharing the gospel for the glory of God?

I think it's time we spend more time popping and praying than passing by opportunities to live like Jesus lived.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Official Forever


Well, the week is finally here. It seems like just yesterday it was December 23, 2012 and I was getting jittery as I waiting for Hailey to come where I planned to propose. It seems like just yesterday we were saying, "Oh, we have nine months to plan everything. That's plenty of time." It seems like just yesterday...

Now, we are three days away from our day. We are three days away from having everything come together as perfectly as we are positive it will with no exceptions. We are three days away from our forever together becoming official. Family and friends are starting to come in town, which means it. is. here.

All of our plans, ideas, and goals will become a reality. Hopefully we will get to sit back, relax, and enjoy the end of the planning process as it transitions to a weekend filled with family, friends, and good times.

My best friend will legally be my life partner, my ministry helper, and life enjoyer! It's my prayer that our relationship will be the gospel fleshed out as an encouragement to all of our friends and family. For those reading who will be in town, we can't wait to see you and share with you! And for those who aren't able to make it...you stink, but we love you anyways!

The next time I write, it won't be as a bachelor...but a man lucky enough to marry his best friend!

"He who finds a wife finds a good thing and obtains favor from the LORD."
        Proverbs 18:22 ESV