I have a little maxim that I throw out every once in a while: change of pace + change of place = change of perspective. Definitely experiencing that this week!

One of my great fears is that NCC would become a closed-system. I want us to remain an open system–we need to keep learning, keep changing, keep experimenting. This week has been a great “out of church” experience for me. Great to hear other perspectives, other voices, and other models. Every pastor needs an “out of church” experience!

Honestly? Sometimes it is a little scary how little we have figured out. But I guess you never outgrow the basics. Muscians always come back to scales and athletes always come back to drills. I feel like I’m wrestling with some of the basics this week. How do we help people cross the line of faith? How do we disciple people? How do we engage culture? How do we fulfill the Great Commission and the Great Commandment?

All I know is this: we have so much to learn! But whenever I feel overwhelmed by how little I know I am encouraged by I Cor 8:2: the man who thinks he knows does not yet know as he ought to know.

A lot to learn!