My buddy Michael just joined a men's book group at his church, and is questioning just how authentic we are in this day and age. It made me realize how truly blessed I have been with the incredible group of guys I meet with (at least) every other week. They come from a broad spectrum of belief, education, and personalities. The thing that binds us together is our love of God, manifested in our love for each other. This, in turn, allows us to love other people more fully, more deeply, more completely...a lesson I am trying to learn. Each of us is on a quest, and as we question, talk, raise each other up, and spend time together, we become more completely like the Christ we follow. All the while, we have fostered a safe, close environment built on Biblical principles of love and sharing.
One of the things I realized early on is how different Men's Bible study is from church. It's much more open. It's a lot more interpersonal. Church, for me, is more about praising God, thanking Him for the things he has done in my life, the incredible blessings He has bestowed on me. Men's Group has been more focused on exploring my relationship with God and giving me the strength and courage to act on those beliefs I've formed. Both are equally important, but in opposite ways.
Sidenote
I had a conversation with Little Fish the other day and she asked who I prayed to. I said I prayed to Jesus, because I like his gentleness. She said she prays to God because he's like a Dad, and he's always there. I have to say I got misty.
2 comments:
What you're describing sounds incredibly cool and I hope I get to experience it one day. I have been a part of men's groups before but all have ended up very superficial, with everyone trying to impress each other. We never broke through into honesty and vulnerability.
Oh, and very cool about little Fish's comment!
I'm hoping my church starts a women's group. I get to go with my pastor do to a social minsitry visit on monday to baptize a baby in the hospital, and take her mom to visit her. Asking for prayers for Jim's family. His dad has only a few days left, and he doesn't have a relationship with Jesus. His wife is praying for him, as am I. We will be heading to Montana, probably next week. Hope you don't mind me using your blog to get your family updates. I miss you guys.
All our love to you all.
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