Sacrifice

Our family's on vacation, visiting friends in France.  Yesterday we drove to the beaches of Normandy where the allies landed during World War II.  I was in awe at the sacrifice that was made by so many to regain the world's freedom.  Over 9000 American soldiers gave their lives at Normandy; most of them are buried on U.S. soil there.

This quote seemed to summed it up the best.

"I started out to cross the beach with thirty-five men and only six got to the top, that's all." - 2nd Lt. Bob Edlin

"127 Hours"

Just watched 127 Hours, the true story of Aron Ralston, a rock climber who became trapped while climbing alone.  A small boulder came loose causing him to fall.  When he landed, his arm was wedged between the boulder and the canyon wall.

It's a story of what a human being is capable of doing in order to survive.  It's not for the faint at heart but I highly recommend it.

Always leave a note.

Where Everybody Knows Your Name

One of my favorite shows from the 80's and 90's is the show Cheers.  My college roommate and I used to watch it religiously every night in our dorm room.  Every episode began with Norm walking in and the entire place yelling "Norm!" followed by one of Norm's quick-witted antidotes. 


Cheers captured the idea that there's a place that's a safe haven from the world, a place where people know you and accept you for who you are, where you can be yourself.

It's a little like how I feel when I walk into the Starbucks near my house and the barista says, "Hey David.  You having ice tea or a latte today?"  I love that.   I love that feeling of being in a comfortable place, where someone remembers me and what I like, where I can be myself and there's no expectations from those around me; just acceptance.

That's what I want for the church.   And not just the church that I pastor, but for every local church and for "the church" in general - the body of Jesus followers around the world.  I'm so thankful that I have the opportunity to pastor a church that's well on it's way to being a modern day "Cheers."  I'm also thankful for the the influence that I, and our church, have been given to help other churches get there.