Up early and doing a bit of reminiscing. The definition of reminiscing is the recollection of memories and past events. Yesterday I had the opportunity to do some reminiscing with a few young folks about how I actually “got here.” My pathway to Christianity was not easy on most levels. Immediately after taking on relationship with the Father, my life was overturned.  I was faced with relationship implosion, the loss of friends and business.

I would lie to you to tell you that there were not times where I was willing to walk away. I struggled with worth and value and things that were beyond my control. But deep inside the life of Jesus was emanating. Beating, beaming. Like a beacon on a hill I was drawn to the light each time and the correction of my compass was intact.For many life had become unbearable. Over the years I have watched many walk away, fall to the side and give up. Even in this day and hour there are many who have just pulled their lives off to the side of the road. “I cannot go on” is something I hear a lot.

As the disciples told Jesus “you got the goods. Where can we go?” John 6:68.  Their reason was simple. They had come to know the Christ.

Too often we have relied on cute Bible stories that while true often do nothing to increase faith or commitment. As I had the opportunity to share with a couple of young people this week, I realized that we have too often put parameters of perceived safety around them often denying them the encounter required to accompany their knowledge.

I submit to you it less about talk and more about substance. I am not suggesting that compelling words cannot get someone to the table. I am tossing the thought out that if you invite them to the table you better serve up the stuff. A part of me feels that we have spoken of amazing things in the kingdom but we have not ratified the thinking with the results.

Too many are wandering around, not knowing who they were or what they were created for. And then once determining that they are not exercising the authority that has been vested in their lives to change the lives around them.

It is good to reminisce once in a while. It is better to create more things to reminisce about.