Alignment

So, I've been hearing the news and gossip about Rob Bell's new book, "Love Wins."  Rob is a pastor and writer, as well as the creator of the video series "NOOMA" (which I love).  Many of the ways he talks about faith, God, Jesus, and the Spirit makes sense to me and is how I, too, see my spirituality. 

But lately, his new book, is causing a ruckus.  So many fundamental, conservative big-wigs are speaking out against him - saying he must not be Christian after all because some of the phrasing in this new book makes it sound like he doesn't believe in hell.  A friend of mine was upset by this - her whole image of him torn.  I went in search of the Twitter updates and news articles about the issue - and found that most of the people spouting off hadn't even read the book because it hasn't been PRINTED yet!  Oh, for goodness sakes....

I had an older book of Rob's on my bedside table that I hadn't gotten around to reading, so I thought I would start it today.  I must say, like everything else I've seen and read of his - I'm loving it.  Here's my favorite excerpt from today's reading:

"As a Christian, I am simply trying to orient myself around living a particular kind of way, the kind of way that Jesus taught is possible.  And I think that the way of Jesus is the best possible way to live.

"This isn't irrational or primitive or blind faith.  It is merely being honest that we all are living a 'way.'

"I'm convinced being generous is a better way to live.

"I'm convinced forgiving people and not carrying around bitterness is a better way to live.

"I'm convinced having compassion is a better way to live.

"I'm convinced pursuing peace in every situation is a better way to live.

"I'm convinced listening to the wisdom of others is a better way to live.

"I'm convinced being honest with people is a better way to live.

"This way of thinking isn't weird or strange; it's simply acknowledging that everybody follows somebody, and I'm trying to follow Jesus."
--Rob Bell, from "Velvet Elvis"

It's all about aligning my life with the teachings of Jesus... 
And we all need the occasional re-alignment... 
*Smile*

Things I am thankful for today:
1.  Waking up to sunshine!
2.  A homemade muffin for breakfast.
3.  Prayers being answered.
4.  Visitors at work - brightens my day!
5.  So many interesting and exciting things happening at our church.
6.  Going for a nice, long walk tonight. 
7.  Making another new yummy dinner!
8.  Being sleepy early in the evening - there will be some good sleep tonight!
9.  Looking forward to lunch with Dad tomorrow.
10.  Our family room floor covered in dog toys: a stuffed gorilla, 2 "bobo" toys, 2 bones, a stuffed bunny, and 2 balls...  You'd think we had a toddler!  Goodness...