24 November 2009 No Comment

Love the idea of travelling, of going beyond known securities, of going into a different place and seeking a hearing in the languages and cultures of that place. Hate the idea of ‘outreach’ (cos it often means ‘indrag’), of ‘getting ourselves ready for mission’ (so what exactly are you doing when you are not in church?…and in practice this often seems to mean a lot of ‘getting ready’ to the extent of never actually attempting anything) or ‘we need to be built up first’ (many of us are so built up we have become fat and are unable to get out of the door: we need exercise not sugary snacks).

Love the idea: occasionally put it into practice. Here is the quote:-

‘Jesus does the impossible: He travels to enemy territory and converses with the enemy as if he loves them. In fact, he does love them. In fact, he heals and liberates his enemies. He is bold and provocative, and he expects his followers to do as he does; he wants them to risk their lives, to reconcile everyone, and so radiate the truth of nonviolence. He urges them to go “to the other side,” to meet their culture’s enemies and to carry forth the good news of God’s reconciling love. He believes they will do greater works than he…. Have we ever travelled to enemy territory? Have we ever faced the fear of entering a war zone and conversing with the enemy about peace? Have we ever been invited to walk the stormy waters of reconciliation?’

Source: Jesus the Rebel- John Dear

And here is the hymn:-

HP437 ‘Guide me O thou Great Jehovah’

Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah,
[or Guide me, O Thou great Redeemer…]
Pilgrim through this barren land.
I am weak, but Thou art mighty;
Hold me with Thy powerful hand.
Bread of Heaven, Bread of Heaven,
Feed me till I want no more;
Feed me till I want no more.

Open now the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing stream doth flow;
Let the fire and cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through.
Strong Deliverer, strong Deliverer,
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield;
Be Thou still my Strength and Shield.

When I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside;
Death of deaths, and hell’s destruction,
Land me safe on Canaan’s side.
Songs of praises, songs of praises,
I will ever give to Thee;
I will ever give to Thee.