According to John . . .
In the book, A Whole New Mind: Why Right-Brainers Will Rule the Future by Daniel H. Pink the author says: "The paradox of prosperity is that while living standards have risen steadily decade after decade, personal, family, and life satisfaction haven't budged. That's why more people—liberated by prosperity but not fulfilled by it—are resolving the paradox by searching for meaning. As Columbia University's Andrew Delbanco puts it, "The most striking feature of contemporary culture is the unslaked craving for transcendence."
This is the book I am currently reading (on the Kindle the congregation gave me. Thanks again.) I am impressed by the above quote, so much so that I posted it on my Facebook page. Naturally I believe that an experience of the transcendent and ultimate meaning are found in the community of faith, but a growing part of our culture isn't looking there, particularly the younger generations. Issues of worship style and practice are thought to bridge part of this gap, but I am convinced neither old hymns nor upbeat praise songs attract or impact a large number of unchurched "seekers". Somehow coming into a building for an organized service, regardless of the potential "experience" one might have, is not an option. Now don't get me wrong. I strongly support all of our current worship experiences: traditional and contemporary. They are providing opportunities to encounter the Holy and are meeting many needs, but I wonder if we shouldn't consider other options.
Lately I have been considering an outdoor "meditation garden" or something to that effect. It could be a place where anyone could come at any time, either in groups or as individuals, to meditate, pray and seek an encounter with God. I have been motivated by the Lenten Devotional material which we received from the Regional Church, based on the concept of a labyrinth, which is a vehicle to enhance one's spiritual journey. What if we were to develop a "garden" on our property on the north side of Broadway (my preference) or on the lot to the south of the offices? It might include a labyrinth, places to sit, Christian symbols, maybe even a water feature. One could hear and see the traffic of Van Buren and Broadway (or Maine), but it could be developed as a spiritual oasis where one could mediate, pray and make a spiritual walk. There would be materials and instructions available. Certainly it would be open to anyone in the neighborhood or the larger community. The church could have outdoor "services" there from time to time. It could be another vehicle to nurture, support and possibly invite others into a life changing, life transforming relationship with God. Think about it. I would appreciate your response.
Grace and peace,
