Getting Out of the Boat

Let me start by stating that I know what we are planning to do in August is revolutionary. And in September we're going to find out whether it was a good idea or a bad one. But one thing is certain: we will not be confined by the limitations of a building in our pursuit to experience church together.

This whole idea has come about because the school we have been using for the past year is going to be used by an after school project that is having their facilities remodeled. And so we are out. Which, to be honest with you, at first was a real bummer.

But, as we began to talk and think about what God was trying to tell us through all this, we felt compelled to try something radical, something out of the box and definitely challenging. But, what makes it exciting is we feel it’s a God thought. And we never want to get locked into the safety of a boat when God is challenging us to get out of the boat.

So for the month of August we’re getting out of the normal routine of doing church in a building with music, children’s programming and a message and we’re going to focus on connecting and serving. No great worship sets. No great oratory, no working, planning or paying for one two hour space of time when we all come together to be entertained and hopefully spiritually inspired. Instead we’re going to focus all of our attention and resources on connecting with one another and serving those around us. And we feel when it is done we will all be better and stronger and more connected.

Now none of this is meant to be something that we are going to do for the rest of our church lives. When Jesus told Peter to get out the boat and walk on the water, He didn’t cease to use boats anymore. The next time we see Peter out on the water he was in a boat again. He didn’t start walking on water everywhere. It was a one time experience that was meant to challenge Peter’s faith and ability to trust God. This is what we feel God is challenging us to do. Get out of our Sunday church at 11:00 boat and do something we’ve never even thought about doing. Cancel church and spend all that “church” time serving and connecting.

To be honest with you, I’m excited and scared to death at the same time. My excitement is because I know we are following God. My fear is because I worry that people will not rise to the challenge and see this as an opportunity.

So I’m putting the challenge out there – I pray that no one will draw back and let pessimism take over their mind. My prayer is that excitement will sweep our church. That a spirit of love will sweep through our midst. I pray that something happens in the month of August that will forever change us as a people.

So, get out of the boat with us and together let’s connect and serve like never before.