So it’s no secret, I enjoy reading. I love reading new books, I love reading books I’ve read numerous times. Some of my absolute favourites like “The Catcher in the Rye” or “Blue Like Jazz” I’ve read 10 times or more . . . . each. Sad I know.
One of my favourites that I am currently re-reading is “Messy Spirituality” by Michael Yaconelli. Even the first chapter is loaded with great thoughts. One of my favourite thoughts from my reading this morning are:
Spirituality is not a formula; it is not a test. It is a relationship. Spirituality is not about competency; it is about intimacy. Spirituality is not about perfection; it is about connection. The way of the spiritual life begins where we are now in the mess of our lives. Accepting the reality of our broken, flawed lives is the beginning of spirituality not become the spiritual life will remove our flaws but because we let go of seeking perfection and, instead, seek God, the one who is present in the tangledness of our lives. Spirituality is not about being fixed; it is about God’s being present in the mess of our unfixedness. Michael Yaconelli “Messy Spirituality” p 13
Some of you might be thinking, “What the pot are you talking about Chad? What is this book all about?” Well, Yaconelli gives a simple breakdown and purpose of the book saying:
Messy Spirituality is a description of the Christianity most of us live and that few of us admit. It is an attempt to break through the religious wall of secrecy and legitimize a faith which is unfinished, incomplete, and inexperienced. Messy Spirituality is a celebration of discipleship which is under construction.
Messy Spirituality is the scandalous assertion that following Christ is anything but tidy and neat, balanced and orderly. Far from it. Spirituality is complex, complicated, and perplexing – the disorderly, sloppy, chaotic look of authentic faith in the real world.
Spirituality is anything but a straight line; it is a mixed-up, topsy-turvy, helter-skelter godliness that turns our lives into an upside-down toboggan ride full of unexpected turns, surprise bumps, and bone-shattering crashes. In other words, messy spirituality is the delirious consequence of a life ruined by a Jesus who will love us right into his arms.
Michael Yaconelli “Messy Spirituality” p 16-17
These words were very meaningful to me this morning in light of our worship and sharing time last night. As part of the FYM program, each participant shares their “story” or “timeline.” Last night one of our guy participants just poured out his heart and was extremely vulnerable with the team. As tears poured from his eyes and words wouldn’t come, I just couldn’t help but smile and cry in both celebration and grieving with him because I was like “Yes, this is what it’s all about. It’s messy, it’s real, and he is a life utterly ruined by Jesus.” I am honoured to have the opportunity to disciple and pour into this humble servant of God. He truly models the servant leader model of Christ. I look forward to the impact he has on the world, as he one day feels called to be pastor.
I love the statement on the cover of “Messy Spirituality” which says:
“God’s annoying love for imperfect people.”
Today I choose into God’s love for imperfect people, for me.
Chaddington
