I’ve been doing this blogging thing for a few years now (my old blogger account says since early 2001), and I’m increasingly seeing the power of online community. I know that this is not new to the vast majority of readers out there, but the whole blogging/facebook/twitter/etc. paradigm is really starting to rock my world.
The more I network with other church leaders out there, the less I am satisfied with how things are, in many areas. I’m discontented with my own relationship with Christ, and want to be closer than ever before. I’m looking for ways to really set my own local congregation on fire and really reach out to our community with the message of the Gospel. I’m looking for ways that leaders across the country can connect in even more authentic ways and speak encouragement, creativity, friendship, and all that comes with them into each other’s lives.
There’s so much potential out there, and I’m looking for a way to tap into it deeper, not only for myself, but for all those around me—both physically and virtually. Sharing with the Compassion Bloggers as they reported back to us over their blogs and via other means was an inspiration to serve harder and strive to be more compassionate. Networking with other worship bloggers has challenged me to be more creative and really push my personal boundaries that have become hindrances in my life. Watching the worship gatherings of other churches out there has given me a desire to see even more people around me proclaiming the name of Christ. Los’ impromtu ping-pong match, and the resulting “fellowship” that took place via the chat during, and the blog comments and tweets afterward helped give me a sense of being a part of the big “C” Church.
I’m still looking for more.
So what else can we do. I’m asking because I don’t have an answer, but I’m really looking for something more. I have to be very honest when I tell you I’ve been very discontented with where I’m “at” lately. I feel the Lord pushing me, but I’m not sure what He’s trying to tell me yet. All I know is that He’s calling me to something “bigger,” but I don’t know what that means yet.
How can we take this whole online networking thing to the next level, and get massive involvement?
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Let me know when you figure it out because I feel like I’m in the same spot.
I want to do more but don’t have time for more. Always making adjustments. Focusing on God and losing focus on God. It’s a constant struggle.
Chad Wright’s last blog post..What about your desk?
Great men (and women) than me have tackled this question, and are still struggling with it, as am I. I spoke with a friend about this very topic this morning, and we both came up short, but feel that we must press on. There are some great churches that are pushing the envelope though, like Lifechurch.tv. Awesome stuff!
Sounds like there’s a lot of this going around right now. Count me among those frustrated…
Danny’s last blog post..The Wonderful Cross
Jeff,
That has been my cry for several months now. It is also part of the reason that I am in the transition situation I am in at the moment. I know God has greater things in mind for me and for us as Christians. Where that will lead us to is the unknown. I read Job 23:8-14 this morning, and it is was a great encouragement (blogged about it as well… see my blog from today).
In the middle of watching Los last night on Mogulus, I thought of how useful that tool can be.
Think about it. Church leader forums, bible studies, round tables, etc
ReadScott’s last blog post..Confessions of an Intentionally Bi-Vocational Minister
thanks for the encouragement jeff. definitely needing it. thank you =) see.. blogging is awesome!
Lorijo’s last blog post..Healing through Worship or why I sing
“I feel the Lord pushing me, but I’m not sure what He’s trying to tell me yet. All I know is that He’s calling me to something “bigger,” but I don’t know what that means yet.”
Jeff I am SO here right now!!!
I really believe some of the connections I have made through the blogging world are happening because I a finding so many like minded and unsettled leaders going through similar things I am.
What can we do? I think it is more than just being innovative or creative. I look around my environment and realize there is so much more to do.
I had a job application laid in my lap the other day for a church on the other side of the country. I got real excited and thought about it and then I audibly heard God say to me, “look around you…what have you done with what I’ve already given you?”. That hit me hard. I know for me, I have too often looked somewhere else in hopes of learning something and then lost focus on ever putting it to practice right where I am. I have to do that better.
I think it has to be more than doing something cool. Like you said Jeff, we have to set a fire underneath those we lead. I know that we can’t lead someone to a place we’ve never been , so i know we each, as leaders have to dig deeper and allow God’s fire to overtake us, so that others see that and follow.
I also, think we are quick to teach or fix, but often are not listening. I think there needs to be more listening in the blog world, which in turn will lead to some great accountability and counsel.
I know I need to be more faithful to sharing my heart and I think that could help.
What else???
Chad, Matt, Danny, Jason, Scott, thanks for chiming in. I’ll definitely keep you all informed as I continue with this journey. I’m looking forward to what the Lord has in store.
Lorijo, anytime I can be of help or encouragement, I’ll try. I’ve been praying for your Dad and your family.
Brent, that’s good stuff there. You’re echoing many of the thoughts going through my head even as I sit here. There are many things that can’t be said in a public forum that I’m wrestling with right now. All I can do at the moment is continue to pray hard, seek His face, and wait patiently.
It may just be that what we’re all experiencing—in part—is some holy discontent.
He must increase, I must decrease.
“He must increase, I must decrease.”
AMEN!
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