missional and attractional

This morning I had a meeting with my friend, and pastor of Paradox church, Craig. We discussed how outreaches in the church tend to be large events that aim at entertaining people and hoping that within that environment people would develop relationships with those who don't attend that particular church. We talked about how that approach may not be successful because people don't hear the main point or mission of the church.

For those of you who attend church, what do you think of the entertaining event approach? For those of you who don't attend church, why do you think the church has been unsuccessful in sharing its message- the gospel?

Small changes

I've learned recently to make small improvements daily in things that matter. I'd like to learn HTML to be a web designer and network with churches through the web. I love the potential of blogs to develop networks and friendships across the country. So this is my first step in that direction.

This morning I got up about quarter to six for a training appointment. I was running late, so I made toast and peanut butter to go. I fumbled around in the dark as I headed toward the back door with my portfolio case, my mountain trekking backpack, and a plastic plate with two pieces of toast. I forced the door open and dropped my portfolio case down the basement stairs. A little light illuminated a missing piece of toast. I flipped on the overhead light and noticed that the missing piece of toast had fallen and got jammed under the door-- peanut butter smeared across the bottom of the door. I quickly cleaned it up and headed out the door and began to panic. I was running late. But I decided to relax, and just laugh at the situation. It's a million to one shot that toast would land face up and jammed under the door. It's a small thing to laugh in a stressful situation, but it's made my day.