Good Busy

You know how sometimes you are busy, but "good busy", not "bad busy". I think this is another one of the tensions of church planting that just doesn't go away. Frankly, I've been living this week just to get through it (on Monday we leave for the Origins Experience in Los Angeles).

But when I get back, we're starting two new events in the life of our church, things that I think will really benefit those participating. First, we're going to be reading through Soul Cravings by Erwin McManus. Each person will be reading 3-5 pages every day. We're also starting Life Transformation Groups, based of of Neil Cole's organic church development (I want to call them something different, not really sure what though). People will also have to commit to reading 2-3 chapters of Scripture a day. Last night, Erika and I were discussing whether or not we're adding too much for people to handle.

The way I look at it, is it's a "good busy". I think that, sure, people will have to give up some things in order to read all of it, but how much time do I spend online just reading news or reviews or laughing at Jon Stewart on YouTube? Is that time I'm willing to give up to connect with God?

Sometimes there's stuff on our plate that doesn't really belong there. Like an extra helping of baked beans. Sure, it tastes great, but you and everyone around you would benefit more from steamed veggies. (Don't take this metaphor too far, I like God much more than I do steamed veggies.)