My fifteen minutes of (blog) fame came about with the post "Why I Am No Longer Emergent"... and you know what... maybe I was wrong. There's a chance I might still be emergent (if they would have me back). I mean, I even SAID I was yesterday: a denominational exec. called and asked me to do a survey. He wanted to know how I would describe our church: traditional, contemporary, or blended? Hmm... how do you answer a question like that when 1) I don't think those are valid descriptions of "church", and 2) I don't think those are valid terms anymore (at least not in my church). So... I said we would probably be considered more along the lines of "emerging." Sorry, it slipped out. I know I probably look like a big weasel and all, but now I know that emergent isn't a movement, but it's more of a value. Besides, I didn't know what else to say. (What would you have said?)
Okay, so, I say all that to bring up something that Alan Creech brought up in his post entitled emerging church burnout. Maybe I'm not near as fed up with the emerging church, as I am just BURNED OUT. And I don't know if I'm burned out "on it" or "with it."
Alan listed some very good signs and causes, and I'm wondering if another isn't simply the "keepin' up with the Jones's" (nothing against Andrew & Tony - just using the saying).
I think it has helped me to look at "emerging" as more of a value than a movement. I also like how Jamie Arpin-Ricci says emerging faith isn't so much something to be a part of, but more somethign we are informed and influenced by.
Well, I guess I don't have an answer. And if you don't know by now, this blog isn't about giving answers anyway. It's more just a way for me to try to work through my stuff. So, my apologies if you're looking for answers; my apologies if you're burned out; my apologies if you don't want me back among the emerging. What I really want to do is just emerge from this "funk" and find the "joy of the Lord." I think I see it up ahead... I think... if I can just...
Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).
3 comments:
"He wanted to know how I would describe our church: traditional, contemporary, or blended?"
You're right - that doesn't describe a church, that describes a style.
i can understand where you stand, and where there may be some frustration. although, i am not a pastor so i can't fully understand it. i've been reading a book called Jesus in the Margins by Rick McKinley, which talks about the realities of where Jesus was and is, which is the margins. some might call the book "emerging", but i think it just addresses many of the life challenges that face all people today. you might enjoy it. blessings~
ableknife,
What an interesting name. Thanks for the comment. I have heard of the book you mentioned, and have wanted to read it, but haven't yet. I will put it on my list.
Also, "the interior realm of a broken heart"... that is... I don't know, I like that. Not the broken heart part, but I like how that sounds. Anyway, from looking at your blog, you need to blog more! :) Thanks again for stopping in.
peace & blessings.
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