what do I deserve?

When things don’t go the way you want. When you’re frustrated. When you’re disappointed. Ask the question: “What do I deserve?” Here’s the right answer: “Nothing.” We don’t deserve anything. All of life is a gift. When we see life from this perspective, it radically changes things. We stop whining. We stop complaining. We quit being so negative and pessimistic because an “I don’t deserve anything” perspective leads to an attitude of gratitude that generates an optimism which is based on the realization of how truly blessed we are.

taking it to the streets

On Sunday I taught about taking the message of Christ to the streets, and one young woman decided to do exactly that. She went to a bar and start playing pool with people she’s known for 10 years. She invited them to come to Journey, and much to her amazement, they were interested. Her best friend was there who had seen something different in her life and wanted to come too but asked about some creative ideas on how to tell her husband who is such an atheist that he has said to his wife, “On my death bed in the hospital, don’t you dare bring a pastor, a priest, or anything in that room.”

I don’t want to come to your church anymore

I talked on the phone today with a woman who has been coming to Journey. She began the conversation by saying: “I don’t want to come to your church anymore.” I asked if she’d been treated unkindly. She said: “No, the people there are great. They’re loving and accepting. But I can’t come anymore because I’m used to being strong. When I come to Journey, I keep crying through the services. I used to never be sensitive to other people, but now I’m starting to be. I’m used to going to a church and sitting there, and it making no difference. But when I come to your church, I think about what you said all week. You’re so honest. My sister drives three hours just to hear you speak. It’s just uncomfortable to me. I’m learning I need to change, but it’s scary. I just can’t come anymore.” I told her we wanted only the best for her and that I hoped she would keep coming, but whatever she decided we’d still love her. She said: “churches aren’t supposed to be like that.”