Submerging in Culture

I've been thinking a lot lately about how I would become submerged in culture (see Andrew Jones blog). Brian McLaren in A New Kind of Christian talks about what a new kind of seminary would look like. He says something like, "I'd have the students exegete movies and concerts, bars and clubs, malls, etc. I might even have them work at McDonald's for 6 months. They might grow more spiritually there in that time that they would in 4 years of school." This is why I'm waiting to go on to grad school.

I feel a deep disconnect with people who don't know or follow Christ. I've worked around Christians for 10 years now. All my friends, the people I spend my life with, are Christians. I'm struggling with how to intentionally put myself around others who might need the light and salt I have to offer.

A friend of mine told me about a mentoring program with single African-American moms in Georgia. It's a state-run program through the schools. Currently, they don't have enough volunteers to handle the need. He encouraged me to see if we have something like this here. I think I just might...

Andrew is here!

We made it home from the hospital on Sunday. I haven't had much of a break since then. My mother-in-law has been and been a big help. But it's disrupted our routine.

The first night was good. But the past 2 have been difficult. I went back to work today and boy did I hate it! I really desire a slower, more contemplative life. Always have.

A friend has reminded me that all of life is spiritual if I live it from the center of my relationship with God. I'm trying to remember that as I change diapers, burp Andrew, and watch Holley as she rides her bike. God, you are so good! Thanks for a healthy baby boy and a wife who is wonderful and doing just great after surgery.

BTW, Andrew Thomas was 21 1/2 inches long and weighed 9 lbs. 2 oz.