03.24.09
Zig Zag Bridges in Life
If you are ever in Vegas, one of the “must see” places to visit is the Bellagio Conservatory. The other day I had the opportunity to stroll through the conservatory and it was decorated with all the designs from the Chinese New Year. This is a particular interest of mine since I have a sister who lives in China. I am always intrigued and interested in different cultures and the meanings behind why they do what they do.
As I approached the bridge area, I noticed that it was a “zig-zag” bridge. Bridges in Chinese gardens imply change, leading one forward to new experiences. In Chinese lore, this type of bridge is said to be “devil-losing” because the devil is thought to be able to move only in straight lines, and here two opportunities are presented to sidestep him before proceeding to responsibilities. At this point, spiritual growth replaces physical growth. Another reason for the “zig-zag” pattern is to allow the traveler to pause at each turning point to reflect on the scenery and enjoy the change in perspective at each turning point.
Wow! What a huge lesson for me that day! I looked at all the “zig-zag’s” that God has allowed in my life and I don’t think I can completely say that I have stopped to think about the different perspectives that God has allowed me to experience. I also loved the perspective of the devil can only move in straight lines. Remember the verse of scripture that says, “Flee from the devil and he will flee from you…”? I am sure that it is much harder to catch someone on a “zig-zag” path than a straight path.
Whenever God allows the next “zig-zag” to appear on your path,
· Experience the Change: realizing that this is an opportunity to grow spiritually
· Be thankful: remember the old saying…”this will make me a better person or a bitter person.” Be thankful God is working through the “zig-zag” and has a greater purpose than what we can currently see. It is hard to see the perspective that He has for us next while we are standing on the bridge.
· Have Companions: I had the awesome opportunity to stroll down the bridge with my wife and two children. Don’t go through the “zig-zags” of life alone. God intended us to stroll the bridge with others.
· Lose the devil: When was the last time you thought about the devil? There is a verse that reminds that He is real and he seeks to destroy us. Don’t forget that you have already won and you do not have to live or lead defeated!
· Enjoy the journey: The journey is too short not to enjoy!
How are you handling the changes or the “zig-zags” that God allows in your life?
03.13.09
Small Groups Are A Dying Breed?
A couple of days ago, I came across a blogger Kathy Guy (Granger Community Church) who made a comment in one of her post about small groups not just aging, but dying. She said something that I am still contemplating…”small groups as we’ve known them are dying and will continue to do so.” Kathy Guy had some thought-provoking comments. Among other things she said this:
“I mean no disrespect to all those who are strongly convinced that small groups are the way. I do think that small groups as we’ve known them are dying and will continue to do so. I believe that if we focus on ways for people to enter into relationship with one another, we have a broader net to meet people where they’re at.”
So what are your thoughts? Do you believe the idea of small groups is dying? If yes, what are you doing differently to promote community? What do you think will be the next great idea?
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