Talk about hittin’ the flippin’ nail on the head.

Say what you will about Brian McLaren, but I like him. I’ve read several of his books and I don’t agree with everything he says, but he certianly challenges me to think.

In his new book Finding Our Way Again he recounts an interview he conducted at a pastors conference with Dr. Peter Senge. It went something like this:

Dr. Senge was saying that in any given bookstore, the best selling books are first, “how to get rich” and second, books on Buddhism.

“Why are books on Buddhism so popular, and not books on Christianity,” McLaren asked.

Senge replied, “I think it’s because Buddhism presents itself as a way of life, Christianity presents itself as a system of belief. I would want to get Christian ministers thinking about how to rediscover their own faith as a way of life, because that’s what people are searching for today. That’s what they need most.”

Too many people are thinking of security instead of opportunity. They seem more afraid of life than death.
- James F. Byrnes

How many of us live that way?  Come on be honest. I know I fight it. That need to feel secure juxtaposed with the call of the Lord to let go…

Today we embark on a journey. A journey for a hamburger. 6 students, 2 leaders and over 1000 miles over 2 days. Madness? Probably. But it should be a memorable spring break for the youth.

Please keep us in your prayers for safety and spiritual growth. Yes, spiritual growth! This is actually a contemplative journey for 6 high school students that happens to involve fast food, visiting churches as we drive, prayer, questions and camping on the Oregon coast. I’ll tell you how it goes when I get back.

I’m headed to Cali. Later.

For more about our epic road trip, go here…

- The cleanse is over and I really enjoyed. Now, I was expecting more of an explosive reaction (like Yosemite Sam’s exploding cigar), but the gentle over time method of detoxifying your body is a better choice. I especially recommend you do it with a group of youth pastors. Talking (or bragging) about bowel movements is always a spiritual bonding experience. Go here to get your colon blo on…

- R.E.M. (Athens, GA represent!) has a new album coming out and it sounds good. I mean really good. 

- During my jury duty lunch break I went to a Presbyterian Church that has a contemplative labyrinth set up and I had a spiritualichous time. Slowing down and connecting with the Lord was just what I needed today. Brian (RTYM) blogged on doing this with youth a while back. You should try it.

-We’re taking a spring break trip to In & Out Burger with some youth. It’s a 11 hour (each way) fast food run to have some amazing burger. I’ve never been, but heard it’s amazing. Any recommendations on what I should order?

- Spring is here and the Chacos are out in force. Just thought you should know.

Those are my random thoughts for the day. Any randomness from you?