I believe that most of us have come to (or most certainly will) a crossroad in our life where we must make some radical decision - a decision that would put us in direct contradiction to conventional wisdom, social norms, familial expectations, and just good old fashioned logic. Some of us would say it is a gut-feeling (like Leroy Jethro Gibbs) or it is a certain restlessness that needs to be resolved ("Run Forrest run!... right across the country ... and back). For others it is a disillusionment and they need release from that which binds their spirit from pure freedom (btw that is what 6/49 tries to sell you with their "Imagine the freedom" slogan). Often we, as friends, try to help these confused sojourners with sound advice, life testimonies and experiences, logical arguments, and sometimes just putting the fear of God into them. But what do you say to someone who tells you that it is a call from God? How do you argue that one? This was the case with one notable and popular Christian pastor in the USA. Francis Chan left his thriving church and ministry, sold his house and other earthly belongings, packed up his family and moved to Asia in response to a call God put in his life. There was no specifics as to the call. "I started to just feel too much like this earth was my home in some ways – you know you just get your roots in and get comfortable. And then I started feeling this call and there's all sorts of fears," he said. "It's just a really crazy time in my life right now."
Certainly there was much criticism and some backlash from his decision from various sources - including other renown and popular pastors (see : http://www.theresurgence.com/driscoll_chan_harris_roundtable ).
Francis Chan is not the first nor the last person who has received such a radical calling in his life. The apostle Paul went through a similar incident during his 3rd missionary journey. He was resolved to go to Jerusalem at the Spirit's beckoning despite warnings from caring brothers in the Spirit and a prophet of God. And I am certain we have all faced (or will face) such a similar dilemma. As we study through Acts 19-21:16 over the next 2 weeks, we will examine the two sides of this proverbial coin problem.
Other exciting news at SimplyChurch this week:
1. Car repair workshop - If you are interested in learning some basic automotive skills, we will be running some car repair and maintenance workshops over the next few months. First one is scheduled for Monday January 17th at 7:30 p.m. 427 Albert St. at Meetz Small Engine.
2. Pick up for Sunday services are available at two fixed locations: Petrocan gas station on Philip and Columbia at 9:40 a.m. and the new Burger King on Philip and University Ave. at 9:45 a.m. If you require a pick up outside of these two locations, please contact pastortim@gmail.com for a CTO pick up location and time.
3. We are looking for people to help with set up and tear down. Please contact Joseph Wong (jyfwong@alumni.uwaterloo.ca).
4. Worship teams - if you have an urge to serve in our music ministry, we have a need for AV personnel, musicians, and singers. Please contact pastortim@gmail.com.
5. Free skate - January 30th from 1-2 p.m. at Columbia Ice Fields. Bring your skates and have a time of fun and fellowship.
6. Sunday School - BBS (Basic Bible Study) We are starting a new series on basic Bible study. Bring your laptop, Bibles and whatever resources you may possess and be prepared to be amazed, astonished and challenged.
Well that is all for this week. May you have a blessed week.
PT
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