I’ve put it before that I became negative, pessimistic and fundamentalistic to a point that left me completely unprepared for a failed ministry (with an ultra-conservative independent Christian Church) and the death of my father. It took three years and the assistance of C.S. Lewis and N.T. Wright to get me to where I am now, together with A LOT of repentance.

I’d love to hear any of the speakers on ACU’s lectureship agenda, but I’m afraid ACU Summit’s going to be one more gathering I’ll have to miss.

A preacher in San Diego was the first to peel off the layer of feeling not a full-fledged part of a congregation because I was divorced.

Rubel took off several of those layers when I heard the idea that women could actually be “allowed” to actively exercise their God-Given Gifts in open worship time. Wow! That was a real healer and set my foot definitely on the out journey from legalism and its jail.

I’m fully aware that some of my terminology is considered out of style these days. However, for one that has lived this - has had the very marrow of spiritual beliefs shaken, torn out by the roots at times - one that is still trying to hold onto what Rubel has called “core, immutable beliefs” of our faith, all the while opening heart, mind and soul to prayerful study of this whole new world of thinking, the terminology fits.

Rubel is one of my spiritual heroes. I don’t fully agree with anyone, as all who know me can confirm - but these freshly presented and sometimes radically different ideas are fascinating, pulling me into FREELY seeking discernment than ever while under legalism’s could of “no doubt permitted.”

As much as I’d love to hear all three speakers in September, I’ll probably indulge myself by listening to Rubel, if I must choose between the three.

I say that to show that though there are people I love listening to, I don’t always think they are on the mark. Who among us every is 100%? There are also people who I tend to think get it wrong more often than not, but this is a prejudice I shouldn’t indulge. They could be right, after all. I just need to listen, think and give the person the benefit of the doubt.

“Where have all the potlucks gone?
Gone to Highland this afternoon!”

And what a party it was.
To whomever thanks are due - Blessings!

Let’s do it a couple/three times a year if at all possible. Thanks again!!!

I don’t think Jesus ever was that cautious. I am so thankful I can live for Jesus and not worry about whether I am dotting every i and crossing every t.

Sounds like a wonderful lineup, including Brian McClaren. Should be superb learning, even from those not amoung the “tribe.” Hummmmm!