I think we need to be really careful about assuming that the “cubicle world” is the definition of mundane or the antithesis of “mission and adventure.”

Granted I occassionally complain about my job, but it is anything but mundane. And if want to talk about local and global influence, I spend hours each week with coworkers in Austin as well as South America, Canada, India, etc. I may never get to mention the name of Jesus in a conversation, but I get a more than enough opportunities to display love and grace in a broken and very difficult environment.

So how does the church not become mundane? I think we need to stop reinventing the wheel. We need to look more to older, wiser Christians in the church rather than over-glorified “emergent leaders” and see how the previous generations have lived. Yes, some have failed, but some have amazing stories of missional living and we’re just not asking them to disciple, teach and encourage those of us who have yet to figure it out.

The problem is that the gospel has gotten watered down. While we may have to work, we can see our jobs as a mission field (not where we are out to “win” souls for Christ at every chance – that can lead to people feeling like they are just a goal or a target for us, but rather where we seek to be Jesus to the people around us). We can stop focusing our energies on our homes and our recreational activities – these do not have to be a big part of our lives. It is a fallacy to believe that homes, and recreation, and the like are things we “have” to invest our time in. Rich Mullins lived simply, in a trailer, before he died. Manyother Christians choose to live simply as well. The problem is not that the gospel is mundane, but that we want to satisfy our selfish cravings too often, thus watering down the gospel and making it mundane.

So, here is my suggestion: Do a personal assessment and look at where all of your time goes. Then, start saying to yourself, Am I doing those things because Christ in me is willing me to do them for God’s Kingdom? Then, reorder your life accordingly. And, find some “exciting” ministry/mission things to do that touch upon your passions. You may have those passions and interests because God has gifted you in a certain way. Use your giftings and serve others!

But, remember this, the real essence of the gospel is to remember that it is no longer you who live, but it is Christ who lives in you, and, therefore, your calling is to love people as Christ would. That is our calling, and how people will know you are His disciple.

Craig,

Love Gal 2:20. Its the scripture that sets the pace for my life. Love Austin, if we can do anything to serve your friends let us know.

Shalom