Along the Jesus Way
I am in San Antonio at the 2009 International Renovare Conference. I had the priviledge of hearing Eugene Peterson speak last night. He had a lot of great things to say about the Jesus Way and many of the ideas in the talk are covered in his book by the same name. But one thing he said really caught my ear. To be on the Jesus Way we have to be personal and immediate and relational. Jesus was all of these things. He called people by name, he was truly present to their needs and concerns. He made friends with his followers.
None of this is new but I find it to be a good reminder. We sometimes can drop down and make following Jesus, or his teachings into a program. Or we look at people as problems to be solved. Lord, forgive us when we do that (and when I do that).
In passing, Peterson noted that for children everything is personal, immediate, and relational. They are not interested in programs. They like to play. They live in the now. They give hugs, they crave being with friends, and even their parents. Sadly, over time they grow to be impersonal – less relational – more distant.
Maybe this is at the root of why Jesus said that we are to change and become like little children . . .
May you experience life the right way—the Jesus way.
I called you this afternoon to tell you of a death of ma wonderful Christian and good friend of mine, Mr. Jake Jernigan. Jake passed away this morning. I would have enjoyed visiting and perhaps dinner with you in San Antonio, Texas. I have been there since Friday. Arrived back in Bryan, Texas just moments ago.
I am trying not to be jealous that you have the opportunity to attend the conference and to hear Eugene Peterson speak!
Hope you will be further blessed by the conference and that you will bring back wonderful thoughts to share with us.
i am very jealous!!! but so glad you were able to go. pass on anything you think we would like. thanks for your posting!! blessings to your family.