Rational versus Relational

Have you ever noticed that the world is controlled often by powerful weaklings? I mean, people or systems that are so seeped in the wrong things, yet they often rise to the top, while most of us shake our heads and wonder why? We see this in education, politics, economics, religion, the corporate world...how do some of these people end up where they are leading...especially considering their poor grasp of what and whom they are leading? We all have noticed it from time to time. Some of us have just shrugged and reluctantly assumed, I guess that's the way it'll always be. This disconnect is more obvious...when we take time to notice...but most choose to just live on "hoping it'll go away"...and guess what, it doesn't! The same can and does happen in church circles. Religion is a place where the disconnect seems to scream the loudest. How can that be, people say? Surely God is not about all that, is He? We face an interesting time in church culture...the church has more Bible's in print, in a variety of reading levels & styles, than ever before...we have more Christian TV and radio than any time in history...we have more books, commentaries and resources...we have more seminary trained pastors than any time in church history...we have DVD's, computer programs, music galore, technology tools abound, and internet research & resources at our fingertips...yet with all this information...we reach fewer people than any time in church history? Huh? How can that be? Research shows the church in the midst of this information & resource boom, actually is less effective in reaching people than at any time in history. In many ways we've become powerful weaklings. A wagon train to no where. Leading people to who knows where? It's not a lack of knowledge or tools or resources. The church has more money than ever before, so that's not it either. It's not that there isn't enough churches (at least in the western world). But it may be an overflow from the Age of Reason, a time in history where human knowledge became glorified. Where the "rational" superceded. When science & information began to overshadow generations of common sense. Man began to glorify "his" knowledge as the most important thing. Man's "rational reason" superceded God's wisdom. Spirituality, the arts, & true community began to diminish in its influences. Yet for centuries the church flourished "before" the Age of Reason ushered in man centered "knowledge". Jesus handed the baton off to a ragtag bunch of fishermen & farmers, and guided by God's Spirit, the world has been changed, by them, forever. Their impact grew & grew & grew to impact millions upon millions in nations all around the world. And guess what? They did it without bibles, books, TV, radio, CD's, DVD's and the internet? Huh? How can that be? In our "rational" world we don't get that...yet that is the truth. As western Christianity has leaned more & more on the "rational side of the gospel" they have forgotten a key ingredient, one that was vital to the early church for centuries. That ingredient was the "relational side of the gospel". It's the "loving God & loving others" part of the gospel. Oh sure, the church has intellectually proposed this consistently, but has it lived it out? Let's be real practical here...how many churches do you know that "really live out loving others well"? Are we known as a group of people that really love Jesus AND love others in a noticeably different way that attracts? Whether we like to admit it or not, we have gravitated towards a belief that "if people just have the right information, bible verses, and solid teaching", then they will enter into relationship with God? Our churches function that way...our denominations function that way...our seminaries teach it that way...most believers live it out that way. But the result is, less and less people are being impacted. I suggest it's because we have strayed from a key component...the emphasis on the relational side of the gospel...out of your relationship with God flows a love & relationship with other people that will impact them and draw them toward God. The New Testament repeats this theme over and over...yet we so rarely live it out intentionally. I don't know about you, but I've been impacted more in my life by people who expressed Jesus to me in the way they loved me, forgave me, encouraged me, and helped me get up when I'd fallen. These people have impacted me far more than the sermons, books & worship songs I've come in contact with. Has God touched me from time to time through these things...of course...but not nearly to the degree of people who are "grace with skin on". Those people who love me & express grace as Jesus does...wow...now that has changed me. God has revealed so much to me through those people. I suspect the same for you too. At ECHO we want to be a people that are "grace with skin on"...the hands and feet of Jesus so to speak...after all He called us His body...so we who follow Him have been given the charge to represent Him to our spheres of relationship. We, at ECHO, are committed to learning to doing just that...living life with others...on a journey of faith. Does that mean the "rational gospel" of information & academia has no place? Of course not. But be careful, for "knowledge puffs up"...academia and ego often go hand in hand. It's often hard to serve humbly when you are convinced you are "right". You may win the "debate" but loose the "relationship". I would suggest, that out of relationships that truly, authentically and genuinely love and care for others...even in the midst of the crap of their life...that is where God enters in more often. And perhaps, as you & I have loved enough to have earned the right to heard...people may then be open to hearing what you "know". But information "without love is like a banging gong, a clanging cymbal (as the bible says)"...to put it bluntly...it's annoying! It's the (rational) gospel (without relationship) that deny's the power within it...so to speak. After all the bible is called God's Word...Jesus is the Word, the bible says, Who always was, even before time...so even the bible itself is all about a person, Jesus...the One who welcomes us into "relationship" with Him. The Bible isn't a book of rational words, facts & truths alone. It all points to the Word, Jesus, a person...and it invites us into "relationship" with Him & with each other, as God has intended. God is once again calling His followers to re-discover the simplicity of loving Him more & more...and learning to live a life of love towards others. That is something that you can't learn in a book...but you can learn, as you experience it with God & with others! At ECHO we want to create an atmosphere, that is conducive to people from all walks of life...so they may have an opportunity to do just that...

be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

The Finish Line

It was the 1992 Olympics in Barcelona, Spain during the semi-finals of the men's 400 meter race, when Derek Redmond pulled a hamstring muscle. Redmond collapsed about half way through the race with the injury, but got up, determined to finish despite the pain. His father came out of the stands and onto the track to help his son. Redmond initially tried to push him away, not realizing who he was, but then heard a familiar voice. "Derek, it's me" his father said. Redmond told his father "I've got to finish this race." His father said "If you're gonna finish the race, we'll finish it together." With his father's help, Redmond made it to the finish line. What a cool story...and true! It reminds me of our Heavenly Father's heart towards us..."if you're gonna finish the race, we'll finish it together". What a picture of trust in the midst of pain...of love in the midst of heartache. If God loves us this way...and He does...then shouldn't we learn to love each other the same way? What if people could learn to come along the wounded, hurting, messy lives of others and help them continue...all the way to finish line! At ECHO we hope to be that kind of people...people who help others get up, & keep on going, even in the mess of life and the hurt that goes with it. This song by Steve Taylor comes to mind...and though it is over 10 years old...it speaks of the struggle...the pain...the messiness of life as we press on toward the "finish line"...towards ultimately victory! Because in God's Kingdom all you got to do is finish...it's not a competition...its not whose first...because "the first shall be last and the last shall be first" The victory is in not giving up...even though we all need help along the way!

The Finish Line

Once upon an average morn

An average boy was born for the second time

Prone upon the altar there

He whispered up the prayer he'd kept hid inside

The vision came

He saw the odds

A hundred little gods on a gilded wheel

"These will vie to take your place, but Father,

by your grace I will never kneel"

And I saw you, upright and proud

And I saw you wave to the crowd

And I saw you laughing out loud at the

And I saw you brush away rocks

And I saw you pull up your socks

And I saw you out of the blocks

For the finish line

Darkness falls

The devil stirs

And as your vision blurs you start stumbling

The heart is weak

The will is gone

And every strong conviction comes tumbling down

Malice rains

The acid guile is sucking at your shoes while the mud is fresh

It floods the trail

It bleeds you dry

As every little god buys its pound of flesh

And I saw you licking your wounds

And I saw you weave your cocoons

And I saw you changing your tunes for the party line

And I saw you welsh on old debts

I saw you and your comrades bum cigarettes

And you hemmed and you hawed

And you hedged all your bets

Waiting for a sign

Let's wash our hands as we throw little fits

Let's all wash our hands as we curse hypocrites

We're locked in the washroom turning old tricks

Deaf

And joyless

And full of it

The vision came

He saw the odds

A hundred little gods on a gilded wheel

"These have tried to take your place, but Father,

by your grace I will never kneel

I will never kneel..."

Off in the distance

Bloodied but wise

As you squint with the light of the truth in your eyes

And I saw you

Both hands were raised

And I saw your lips move in praise

And I saw you steady your gaze

For the finish line

Every idol like dust

A word scattered them all

And I rose to my feet when you scaled the last wall

And I gasped

When I saw you fall

In his arms

At the finish line

lyric by Steve Taylor

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Olympic Fever

Well, the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China are well under way. Lots of excitement, heart breaks and heart warming stories abound. It's official, Olympic Fever has gripped the world, and what a show it is! The Opening Ceremonies have many thinking they were the best ever...or were they? It appears that not all is how it was, as advertised. Apparently most of the fireworks we saw during the opening festivities were computer generated for TV. One of the most memorable moments was a cute little Chinese girl who sang with a fantastic voice. Unfortunately it wasn't her voice...she was lip syncing. Apparently the girl who really sang wasn't cute enough, the ruling Communist Party decided. The actual girl who sang had bad teeth and was too chunky, and didn't represent China well enough, they say? What a drag for those kids. What a drag for us viewers worldwide. Now I'm as excited as the next guy that China has opened up its country to the world, but come on people, if you want us to like you, admire you or even envy you...then show us who you really are. In an attempt to win the world's approval and admiration, China faked the impression they gave. How sad is that? Unfortunately, these things happen it seems...even on the gymnastic team, 3 of the 6 girls for China were under the qualifying age of 16...at least according to the last 2 years of competition records...but apparently their passports (issued by the Chinese gov't) now say they are all 16 years of age? Wow, I'm so glad they caught those errors "before" these Olympics (insert sarcasm at it's highest here). Isn't it funny to see how the spirit of "competition" enters in and so easily can run amok. It happens in sport, where competition is part of the deal...and all too often cheating creeps in. This "fever" of competition is a symptom of illness... something wrong...something unhealthy. It also happens in church life. How often do churches "fake" the impression they are trying to give visitors? How often do people "fake" who they really are...even Christian people? We call it "mask wearing"...people outside church life call it "hypocrisy". In a culture that cries out for "real deal people", authenticity and the genuine...we all too often offer a facade. As if the fake will con them into liking us, and maybe even joining our church? We actually believe a spotless building, with perfect people performing a perfect program with error-less eloquence...will somehow draw them closer? Just like the Chinese have discovered, their lack of integrity has caused greater suspicion and mistrust...not more friends. Maybe a functional facility that isn't perfect, with regular people humbly doing their best and being able to laugh at their own mistakes...would be more attractive to a world struggling to "measure up" in so many ways. Do we see the disconnect? Apparently not. Too many churches put on "the show"...we'll say we are "friendly"...so we'll have "professional" greeter type people who will smile at you and say good morning...but in reality, won't know your name or remember you 5 minutes after you walk by. Is that "real" friendliness? Is that what people crave? Is that really attracting people? We see it, where only the right looking, pretty, talented, stylish ones are allowed to be seen "upfront"...as if there is no short, average looking, everyday folks, with a few extra pounds allowed. Is that attractive or repulsive? Especially in a church setting? Is that what Jesus would model? The bible says there was nothing attractive about Jesus in His appearance, for instance...many commentaries suggest He may have even been homely...at the very least, He was very average and typical. But His heart, His love and the way He treated people...now that was attractive! All too often we get caught up in the spirit of "competition" and we fake it. Some would say the bible encourages competition, pointing to the many "sports" analogy's within Jesus teachings and the New Testament. Yet the bible never uses any of these sporting images to suggest we are "competing versus each other"...trying to out do each other somehow. When we stoop to that mentality, we inevitably will creep towards faking it...pretending we're better than we really are...the mask goes up very easily. The "sports" imagery of the bible always points to things like "endurance"..."not giving up"... and "perseverance". They remind us that its not who wins...but who finishes the race! It speaks of staying in the battle, and not quitting. Yet as people we often inject "our" sports imagery into these bible passages, assuming sports to God means winning... competing...and being the best (at all costs). In reality this is not the spirit of what Jesus taught...for He knows the spirit of competition is very closely tied to "pride"...which is the root of sin. Pride and the striving for "success" has compromised more than one person...in sports...in church...and in life. Jesus calls out for humility...and urges you and I to endure...keep fighting on...to persevere no matter what...because all who finish are His. It's not a race to see whose first...in fact Jesus said the first will be last. It's a race of humility, authenticity and endurance...things that are attractive and will last. Unfortunately, all too often church life becomes a prideful show of competition, where only the fake survive...and that turns people (& God) off more than anything else. At ECHO we humbly want to cheer people on...help them get up when they want to quit...and carry them across the finish line if we have to...because in the end, all who finish are His...no matter how bruised, tired & exhausted they may be. Join us in this race called life, where no "perfect people" are allowed and where all who finish are winners!

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Substance Over Reason

Have you ever found yourself focused on the wrong thing? So focused, in fact, that when someone mentioned you "were focused on the wrong thing" you thought they were nuts? It's so easy to do in life. We can focus on money, careers and status...yet in the end we know those have little lasting value. Relationships, family, friends...now that's stuff that lasts...even when your unemployed...broke...and "a nobody special". It'll all fade away...but relationships last. In fact, this is so true that God tries to continually draw our attend back to that truth. He continually is reminding us that our relationship with Him & with other people is the stuff of eternal value. Yet we often get distracted and preoccupied with other stuff...all too often at the expense of the very relationships God reminds us to value. I see the same missed focus in spiritual matters also. People often ask, "What's so special about Jesus?" We describe how He died for our sins... how our sins separate us from God... and now the price has been paid for our sinfulness...so we have the free gift of God...eternal life...available to us all...all because of Jesus. But in that seemingly theologically correct response have we missed the reason underneath all the substance. It is true, Jesus died for our sins. He is the only perfect sacrifice for all sin for all time. That is what separates Jesus from everyone else, He's the only one to pay that price. But why did He die? Why did God allow this horrific price to be paid at all? The bible says "the wages (or price to be paid) for sin is death". Now that penalty seems quite harsh to us humans, but apparently God takes this sin stuff pretty seriously. Now before we shake our fist at God over this harsh response to our sin, realize this, whether we agree the price is fair or not is not the question, because in the end, God paid His own price! He never expected you and I to die for our sin...He provided the perfect sacrifice...Himself. Wow, now that's radical, regardless of view on the severity of that penalty. The bible says "there is no greater love than this, that one lay his life down for another..." So whats up with the harsh penalty on this sin stuff? Many will point to the scripture that says "God hates sin". Wow, "hate"...that's harsh too! So why does God hate sin? Well, some will say, because "He is a holy & righteous God". This is true, but what is "holy"? Many struggle to describe the term "holy"...it refers to a density, a thickness, a permeating heaviness, emanating from God. In a sense it is the very essence of God oozing out from Him. His righteousness, or His being absolute "truth", thus He "is" the very essence of "righteousness". With those thoughts...many will conclude that God hates sin because of who He is by nature, and who we are as humans by our sinful nature. Thus the two cannot mingle, they are incompatible. Yet in that thinking have we missed a deeper reason. The bible tells us "God is love". His very nature, His very substance, His very essence is love! Relationship and unity are at the core of who God is. Even the mystery of the Trinity expresses a beautiful relationship within God. He is united, mutually serving Himself, submitted one to another, a team, love expressed in its purest, most authentic spiritual sense. Perhaps the answer to "why does God hate sin" goes deeper. Perhaps it goes deeper than His holiness and righteousness...perhaps it goes to the core of who God is...love. If God is love...then anything that hinders love and relationship is what he hates. And whether we like to hear it or not, sin is usually rooted in selfishness, not love. When we steal it's for selfish gain or pleasure. When we cuss someone up one side and down the other, its because we selfishly wanted to vent & drop a few f-bombs on someones head. When we cheat on our spouse, we selfishly compromise our vows of love, so we can get our jollies, because, darn it, my desires are whats important here! When we lie, its because we selfishly have to cover our butt, or manipulate another into doing what we want. The examples go on and on...but in the end...sin is rooted in "self". Me doing what I want, when I choose. When the world revolves around me, it becomes clear that no one else lives on the planet! Ya, sin is fun for a season, as are most selfish things...but never are they productive in the long run. Heck I hate that sin stuff too...at least when its hitting me in the face and screwing up my relationships. And let's be honest, that sin crap gets in the way, doesn't it? Maybe that's why God hates it too. It does mess up relationships, with people & God. Selfishness goes right against the core of love. Selfishness pulls us away from authentic, genuine relationship with each other and with God. God hates sin, because it flies in the face of love, relationship and unity. He doesn't hate us, but He hates the stuff that ruins our relationship with Him & others. He doesn't want anything in the way of pure relationship. All these things are part of the very essence of who God is...that is why He values them so much. And dog-gone-it relationships are hard for us, aren't they? In fact, God relaizing this, says, "kids I'm coming down and paying the price for it all". Why? Because God is holy and righteousness? Only partly...I believe it has a whole lot more to do with "because God is love and He values relationship more than anything". God paid the price, so now our relationship with Him is an open door, no more walls. Now the issue for each of us is, "do you trust Him enough to enter into a relationship with Him?" Now that's an opportunity, an opportunity that ECHO wants everyone to clearly understand...in the hope some beautiful new relationships begin, with the God who is relationship, Who is love. As we learn to trust Him in relationship then its easier to trust His ways as we learn to live in relationship with each other. After all, its what God's all about, and we are His kids...that's why He wants us to be like Him...and thank God He has made a way for us to do just that! Maybe the real answer isn't "God hates sin", but more importantly that "God loves relationship." I'm suggesting the reason God hates sin is because sin ruins relationship...and a God who "is love" cannot tolerate that in any way, shape or form...so He took care of it...once and for all...thank you Jesus! Now the opportunity for relationship with God is available to everyone who trusts enough to step into it...

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

One Step Closer

There is something within the human soul that longs to be known and to know. We all desire that someone really know the real us. In that knowing we long that we also know...we want to discover the other...we want to know truth...our God. It's a craving that is settled in process...rarely in a moment. That's what we love and hate about it. At ECHO we want to learn in process... in the celebrations as well as the frustrations. We want to discover in the pain and the blessings of existence. It's beautiful, mysterious, attractive, yet mind warping. I suppose that's why I love this song by U2. It speaks of the discovery...the process...the knowing...as we journey through this thing called life...as we get one step closer...

I'm 'round the corner from anything that's real

I'm across the road from hope

I'm under a bridge in a rip tide

That's taken everything I call my own

One step closer to knowing

One step closer to knowing

I'm on an island at a busy intersection

I can't go forward, I can't turn back

Can't see the future

It's getting away from me

I just watch the tail lights glowing

One step closer to knowing

One step closer to knowing

One step closer to knowing

Knowing, knowing

I'm hanging out to dry

With my old clothes

Finger still red with the prick of an old rose

Well the heart that hurts

Is a heart that beats

Can you hear the drummer slowing?

One step closer to knowing

One step closer to knowing

One step closer to knowing

To knowing, to knowing, to knowing

lyrics by U2

be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

The Real Deal

Our world is full of mystery. There is so much we are still learning. We still haven't explored the depths of the ocean. We are still discovering layer after layer in the microscopic makeup of the genome. We are still discovering new species. We still haven't found the full expanse of outer space. We still are trying to figure out what causes the "Northern Lights" to occur as they do. Maybe ideas, guesses, theories and concepts abound...but life is full of mystery and wonder. It's one of those gifts our Creator has given us...no doubt so that we won't be bored. He has made life and our world so fascinating...so fun...so amazing. What an adventure life is! In that one of the greatest mysteries is love. Why do certain people fall in love? What causes love? What is it's source? Why is love a universal focus in humanity regardless of culture, upbringing or education? One thing is for certain...we're definitely wired for it...love that is! Of course in a world so confused about what "real love" is...it might be best to clarify. We "love" our dog...we "love" cheeseburgers... we "love" Coldplay...we "love" the Ducks...and we "love" a cold drink on a hot day! Yet what is love...true love...the real deal? Since God is love, as the bible states, then He is a good starting point. After all we have all experienced or heard of love manifested in very unhealthy ways in our culture...so clearly not all people do "in the name of love"...is the genuine, real deal, love we seek. As you examine those around you or do some soul searching yourself, perhaps the biblical definition of love is a good measure. The bible says love is: patient...kind...does not envy...does not boast...is not proud...is not rude...is not self-seeking...is not easily angered...it keeps no record of wrongs...it does not delight in evil...it rejoices in the truth...it always protects...it always trusts...it always hopes...it always perseveres...love never fails! This familiar passage of scripture used in a bazillion weddings, gives us a great definition of love. A measuring stick if you will. If someone says they "love you"...are these evident in them? If you are honest, are they evident in you? It's a great way to evaluate love...the real deal...or a counterfeit love that's unhealthy. One cool thing is it gives us something to shoot for...heck some of us don't know what real love is! Some have never experienced it personally, so how can you live it, some ask? Fortunately God is love...and He is all these things. In fact this scripture is a great description of God Himself...pretty cool eh? And if He loves us...and desires each of us to experience His love and share it with others...then this scripture gives us the "gold standard", so to speak. These verses give us a picture of what it looks like. In spite of the mystery and wonder of love...and our desire for it...we can know what the "real deal" looks like! I don't know about you, but I need all the help I can get! How about you? At ECHO we want to color our lives with God's love and share it with those around us...so that we can experience what real deal love is like and see it work wonders within our spheres of relationship. And to think we all have been invited to live in that love and share it with others...now that's pretty cool if you ask me...

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Whining About Wine

OK, who likes whiners? I don't...do you? Now for those of you who surf through this blog from time to time that wonder, "what's up with you Christians?", maybe this entry is for you. I often have dialogues with people who are hesitant to embrace biblical stuff due to believer's who argue about stuff from the same bible, but can't agree. Now often this "whining" is about stuff that doesn't really matter in an eternal sense, so much so, that even the "not-yet-believer" notices how silly they are. Often our arguments "do matter", but are done so poorly and inconsistently, that we undermine the discussion. A perfect example is the overly simplistic manner in which Christians whine about "wine". Both sides of the discussion have such a simplistic approach its hard to take either side seriously. On one hand the more legalistic fundamentalist teetotalers would rail on about how drunkenness is a sin and we should abstain so as not to be drawn into sin. On the other hand, my post modern emergent friends would tout "well Jesus made 40 gallons of the stuff", referring to the wedding miracle where Jesus turns water into wine. In their discussion, that's all...that's the stamp of approval needed from Jesus to go for it. Both of these viewpoints are fatally flawed in being overly simplistic and one dimensional. The lack of broad biblical understanding on the topic undermines the discussion...even to the "not-yet-believer". But in a culture where alcohol abuse is rampant, perhaps a more legitimate approach should be taken in regards the subject. If we want to model a biblical lifestyle, then let's do it responsibly and biblically. If we are to "reason together" from scripture, then shouldn't we do so fairly and as unbiased as possible. Shouldn't we take historical, cultural, archaeological and scientific evidence into consideration in light of scripture. After all the bible says God holds us accountable for what we know...so let's make an effort to "know" what we're talking about. Too often we pick a pet scripture or two to defend our personal view, and leave it at that. People see through that quickly. That type of position is undermined every time, both inside & outside christian culture. Unfortunately, that type of feeble argumentation creates doubt in the very scripture we are pointing to as a source of truth. The bible isn't invalid, but our use of it is. Correctly using scripture and its application to daily living is quite a responsibility and speaks volumes to a world searching for truth!

For instance, on the issue of "wine"...the bible has 230 references to wine or "strong drink"...116 references are against its usage, such as Proverbs 23:29 "Who has woe? Who has sorrow? Who has contentions? Who has complaining? Who has wounds without cause? Who has redness of eyes? Those who linger long over wine..." It goes on to describe wine as "having a bite like a serpent and a sting like a viper. Your eyes see strange things, and your mind will utter perverse things. (etc...)" Sounds like a drinker to me...that's a pretty good picture of it...in fact I've been that guy!!! In addition, there are 82 references that would seem to be neutral. Also, 42 scriptures would appear to endorse its usage, such as Proverbs 31:6-7 "give strong drink to him who is perishing, and wine to him whose life is bitter. Let him drink and forget his poverty, and remember his trouble no more." Many of these passages speak of wine as medicinal in purpose or for utilitarian usages. Some passages speak of wine as a good thing, a blessing. Though scripture seems to lean more towards the abstinence side of the argument, should we end the discussion there? Is the wine of the biblical era like todays, some would ask? First off, there is every reason to believe that the wine was indeed fermented (i.e. containing alcohol). Too many passages and historical documents make that clear to dispute that point. Now they fermented their grape juice differently than today, that is true. They put wine in "wine skins" and allowed the wine to ferment in the sun "naturally". Today we use machinery and some additives to enhance the fermentation process. In the end both eras have alcoholic content in their wine, though our wine today is probably more potent and refined.

In proper bible study, we always should ask two questions: What did this mean to the people at the time it was written? ...and... What does this mean for us today? If we don't seek first to properly understand a passage in light of what it meant when it was written, it will be difficult to interpret and apply it intelligently in today's context. It appears that the wine of Jesus day was very different than our wine today, so let's be honest about that. All throughout Roman, Greek and Middle Eastern culture it was written that wine was commonly drank 1 part wine, with 20 parts water. The ratios vary (from 40 to 1 through 2 to 1), but drinking wine "straight" was always considered "barbaric" even to those wild, party animals the Greeks & Romans! Perhaps this "diluted wine" explains how they could drink "all day". In fact when the bible speaks of people getting drunk, it often was multiple hours or days of drinking. It would appear if one were to get drunk during this era, one had to be pretty determined to do so!!! In fact, one's bladder would be really, really active long before one got a serious buzz going. So as a beverage, wine was seen always as mixed with water, this was normal. Usually writers in ancient times just referred to this mixture as "wine" since that was the common way it was used, mixed with water. In contrast we would never think of drinking wine diluted with water today. Most people today can get a "buzz" on a glass or two or three. In ancient times 3 glasses would only prompt a "potty break" not a "buzz". In fact, to get the equivalent "buzz" of 2 martini's while drinking wine mixed with 3 parts water, 1 part wine, a person would have to drink 22 glasses!!! One's bladder would be affected long before your mind would be affected. It should be noted that even the Passover ritual would state 3 parts water to 1 part wine (Pesahim 108a). It would be safe to believe the wine of the Last Supper, that Jesus used, was within this context.

It should also be noted that the water of the Middle East & Europe has been polluted for 1,000's of years, and wine in water would act as a purifying agent as well. Hence the incredible value of finding a pure water well, with clean, fresh water. Finding clean water was (and still is) very difficult in this region. This accounts for the proliferation of wine use in the bible, at most meals, and at most occasions...it made their water safer to drink...and no doubt added flavor.

To discuss this issue properly we need to remember other factors that we know to be true today, that perhaps the bible has pointed to in the past. The bible says that the "sins of the forefathers are passed on to the 2nd, 3rd and even the 4th generations". Well in today's knowledge of genetics we are indeed discovering that genetic "weaknesses" are passed on...including genetic weaknesses toward addiction. We see family tree's where alcoholism has been passed on in many families. In fact, studies say 78% of Americans are highly affected in some way by alcoholism. "Even affecting grandchildren, even when drinking traits are not passed on literally, the traits of the alcoholic family system can be." Knowing scientifically that "addictive traits" may be in your family tree, should be another element in your decision to drink or not. If your family tree has a history of addiction then wisdom would tell you to abstain and break that chain for the sake of future generations.

The bible also asks us to consider the "weaker brother". When we choose to drink, consideration should be for those around us as well, and perhaps the example we are modeling for them. Maybe you don't have a weakness for alcohol, but what about your friend or work associate? Do you understand their family tree well enough to know if you are setting him up for a fall? The bible cautions us strongly regarding stumbling a brother, so this consideration should be a part of this decision as well. In a world where even our scientific world urges us not to partake of alcohol, if not for our lives, but for our descendants sakes. The opportunity to stumble someone may be too great a risk. If we are to "love others as our self" then love would compel us to watch out for others also. Love is violated when personal pleasure and profit are gained at the expense of another's pain or loss.

Now, if "you" are the weaker one, who is easily tempted, then wisdom says "flee" as the bible puts it...get as far away as you can from those environments that may trip you up! That's where "loving yourself" enters this picture.

Oh, and news flash...there will be alcoholics in heaven...God's grace is sufficient, even when our will power isn't!

Also, some may say, "well what about our freedom in Christ?" It is true, their is "no condemnation" for those with faith in Jesus...but the bible also says "all things are permissible but not all things are profitable". With an honest assessment in these areas you should be able to tell if you are looking for a "freedom loophole" that may not be "profitable" to you and those around you. In the end God holds us accountable for what we know...in this and all areas...so honest evaluation of our hearts and circumstances can't be hidden from Him. So we are encouraged to use our freedom wisely and responsibly.

In conclusion I hope this illustrates how a subject we often argue in "simplistic ways" is far more complex. In this case we need to be honest and realize that wine did exist and was part of life in the bible and yes Jesus drank it. That wine did indeed have alcoholic content. We also need to be honest that the wine was drank mixed with water, which is very different than the undiluted wine we drink today. So we need to be honest in that evaluation. We also need to be honest with our family tree and what "weaknesses" we may have inherited. For some they have no history to be concerned with...for others they can see the problem generationally. Dealing with that honestly is a vital part of the equation. And finally, consideration to the 'weaker brother or sister' in your sphere of influence, should weigh in. If loving others is a priority then we need to add that into the equation as well. Now the answer will vary from person to person...the bible says "for him who knows what he should do, and he doesn't...for him it is sin". That's a very personalized statement. We each should evaluate what "we should do" in light of the truth of scripture, ancient/modern wine context, family history, and spheres of influence. In that you will have an answer to the "whining about wine". But at least you'll have evaluated honestly and properly in light of God's wisdom...and isn't that the goal???

I know for us at ECHO that is our goal...a goal of integrity before God...scripture...and others. I hope that is your desire also...cheers!

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Clone Wars

We're in a war and it stinks! Now, I'm not talking about present headline wars or historical wars of the past. Whether those wars are justified or not, only history will tell. Predicting that is pretty complicated, emotional and definitely messy. At our core we don't like what war represents, so its very, very uncomfortable to discuss and process clearly. I think we all can agree that war in general sucks as a concept, especially...destruction...greed...casualities... power grabs...agendas. It's all crappy stuff. What especially smells to high heaven is the wars between churches. What's up with that? Every community has churches fighting for the same people...the same 20% of the population that is remotely interested in church as they've known it. So these churches all try to out "program" each other. Put on a better "show" every Sunday. "Build" a bigger, more impressive building than the other churches in town. Try to out "market" each other with slick postcards and flyers. In the end they're all battling for the same people...people who are just moving from one church to another...not really building the Kingdom Jesus asked us to build. Then the trickle down begins...a big church builds a big impressive building...or adds some hot new program...then other big churches copy it. Then the middle sized churches try to copy it also (at a smaller level), or else they'll loose some people. Then the small churches try to copy it also, so they don't lose the few they have. It's like "clone wars" among churches. My kids are excited about the new "Clone Wars" movie (as some of you Star Wars freaks are too...go ahead and admit it). But the "clone wars" among churches...that is not something to be excited about. It's quite sad. While churches compete with each other for the 20% of the community that may come to church...80% of the people are left unreached, un-cared for, and un-exposed to the Jesus who is crazy about them! It goes even further than local churches. I know many, many pastors who try to "clone" other churches stuff. If it works for that mega church dude in Ohio or Texas or Florida or California...then it'll work here in Eugene? Churches copy buildings, programs, sermons, preaching styles, the latest "tricks of the trade"? Yet in all that, while some of it may be of a little value, most of it smacks of a "quick fix mentality". Churches have often forgotten how to be unique...how to be special...how to be led by God's creative Spirit. If we serve the Creator, shouldn't "creativity" be a part of who we are? At ECHO we hope to be different...intentionally so...for the sake of the 80% of folks who don't like church. That is a slow, patient process. It creates a very dependent way of being. It really forces one to be dependent on God and His Spirit...and learning to trust Him in the process. Would it be easier to copy what works somewhere else and make it happen? Of course! Would it expand the Kingdom of God? Very little...as history has shown us. The bible encourages us "not" to imitate...but to initiate. Initiate under the inspiration and guidance of God's Spirit. In fact, for each of us individually, we are reminded that we are unique people...not clones. I remember many years ago when God encouraged me "to not be like Billy Graham, I already have one who is really good at it...be the best Brian I've designed you to be, cause you're the only one I've got..." That was a very freeing thing. I believe that's a very freeing thing for each of us to rest in. I believe it can be a freeing thing for churches also...learning to rest in your uniqueness...as God has designed you. If not, you'll enter the clone wars and try to copy...which often leads to a lot of crappy stuff...which isn't good for you or those around you. Wars are not appealing...they are very destructive...and leave lots of causalities. Perhaps that is a "clue" as to why 80% of the people in town are not in our churches. Maybe it's time to do things differently...

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Independence Day?

Independence, hmmm? Well, as we have all celebrated the 4th of July with assorted BBQ's, weekend getaways to the beach or mountains, along with lots of fireworks and oodles of fun...I've been pondering the concept of "independence". Now I realize that "Independence Day" celebrates our nations beginnings, and especially our breaking away from British rule. It marks a time when a group of people from all over Europe and beyond, declared an "independence" from rulers, taxation, religious persecution and a host of other undue burdens. It's cool how our nation even declares that people are "endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights". Yet in that, our nation oozes a spirit of independence, and I wonder how biblical all that may be? We love the rebel...the outlaw...the non-conformist...the cowboy...the rugged individualist. We pride ourselves on being "self made men", "pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps", and being "lone rangers" & "mavericks". Some would even declare that us Americans have a favorite bible verse, "God helps them who help themselves". The most famous "bible verse" not found in the bible! To the contrary, in light of what the bible tells us consistently, it would appear that our "independence" is the key to our problems in life. This isn't just an American problem, independence is a human problem. The idea that we can do it on our own. The idea we can work it all out ourselves. The idea that we know whats best. The idea that we don't need anybody else. I would suggest that "idea" is the core root of our human dilemma. Our striving for "independence" cuts to our sin nature...our selfish nature...our self centered world views...the world revolving around us. When in fact God continually says we should live lives of dependence. Lives dependent on relationship with Him and lives dependent on relationships with other people. This flies in the face of what most of us believe and especially in the face of our core American value...independence. God would remind us that our independence is what causes our relational pain and the chaos in the world we live within. He would suggest that as we deepen our relationship with Him & other people, in dependent trust, the chaos becomes more manageable. At ECHO we desire to be people who learn the art of graceful, trusting dependence on the God whose crazy about us. It's a journey away from independence, yet one worth taking, together! In this world we will always have trouble, and the trouble is our independence from God. What a struggle that is, isn't it? God has designed us to be a people of dependence...we need God...and we need relationship with others. We crave these things from the depths of our soul, don't we? In the end its our way (independence) or His way (trusting dependence). For each of us, we hear the cry to, "choose you this day". Which one will you embrace? Join us on the journey of dependence...together!

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Reality Show

It's weird to think on how God see's things and how we see things. We have such a limited perspective, yet we try to unravel the eternal mysteries of the universe, when our own world is beyond our comprehension. It's quite humbling really. I've been pondering lately, on who God really is (at least what I can fathom about Him) and the things we often consume our thoughts with. Talk about a disconnect, eh? Often the things we fill our mind with are thoughts of what is not real...imaginations...fears...what if's...faulty thinking...a lot of it is centered in the future and where we think we are going "unprepared". Our culture promotes this thinking in many ways. You won't have enough money to retire...for health care...for college! You need insurance just in case...better stock up now...you can never have enough...gas prices...housing problems...global warming... terrorists...salmanella...lock your doors...alarm systems...identity theft...stalkers...perverts...swindlers...it's everywhere! We're reminded constantly to be on guard, you don't have enough, and you better watch out! I know its part of our economic, political and social climate. After all, a lot of agendas get forwarded through these means, and a lot of businesses thrive with these tactics, as do politicians...but how much of it is real? Sure there is a grain of truth to many of these things, but enough to dominate our thinking...alter our lives...control our emotions? Often we forget what is real...and focus on what isn't. In many ways what is most real is the spiritual. The physical, tangible world we see is often an illusion, a facade, and all too often, fake. The world around us often is a "show" drawing our attention away from what really matters...reality...the "real"...that which is important and vital. For instance we rarely focus on "goodness", which is alive and well. Instead we tend to dwell on the evil in our world. In reality, evil is the absence of good. Yet our attention gets diverted towards the "evil in the world" so easily, and it squeezes the goodness out of us and the world around us. At the very least the goodness gets far less attention...how sad is that? So many things get our attention... evil...darkness...death...hate...confusion...lostness of the wandering soul I suppose. It pulls us down. Makes life seem like it sucks...just one huge burden. For instance, darkness isn't real...it's the absence of light. Light is real! Death isn't real, it's the absence of life. Life is real! Confusion isn't real...it's the absence of truth. Truth is real! Hate isn't real...it's the absence of love. But love is definitely real! The lostness of the wandering soul isn't real...it's the absence of knowing the way. But the way is real! Yet in spite of all this, we tend to dwell on our wandering, our confusion, the evil we see, the hate we see, the darkness all around us, and the death that dominates our thinking. No wonder we have fear, doubt, a sense of insecurity and inadequacy. Yet God offers the reality of Himself. God says He is "Good"...He is "Light"...He is "Love"...He is the "Way"...the "Truth" and the "Life". Drawing closer to Him brings these realities to the surface and allows us to overcome the "shadows" of whats not real...whats not permanent...whats not meant to be. There is a beauty in realizing these things, God's intent...which is far better than shaking our fist at God in misunderstood anger. Now that's not to diminish those in the midst of real life pain, it consumes us so easily as human beings, believe me I know. It seems so easy to blame Him when you don't know what else to do. But it really is a freeing thing to gain perspective, when you take time to think about reality...God's intent. At ECHO we hope to be a people that dwells on the reality of who God is and what He has meant this world to be. There is an incredible freedom in that. We want to see His goodness, His light, His life, His love, His way, His truth and His life manifested in us and through us to a world preoccupied with everything He never intended. He never intended our lives to be lived in the shadows of fear, pain, insecurity and doubt. He promises a life that's abundant...a real life centered in the reality of who He is...and what we have been designed to partake of with Him. Genuine relationship with Him & others draws these awesome things out of us...and allows us to see "reality" in the midst of a world disillusioned. Without Him, all we are left with is the shadows...the facades...the fake. I don't know about you, but I like God's reality way more than the one we've made up, don't you?

be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Fingerprints of God

Wow, is there a few too many CSI shows on TV or what? Now I enjoy watching them as much as the next guy (or gal)...but how many are there? There must be at least a half dozen of them! I'm half expecting CSI Eugene any day now! The "Crime Scene Investigation" thing is pretty cool. It's interesting to watch the clues come together to each episode's crime. The science of gathering evidence is very fascinating...amazing really. I suppose most of us didn't know the intricate details involved. It's really cool how they find DNA or fingerprints in the most unusual ways and rarely are these "clues" not present. This type of evidence is unique and points to a specific person every time, usually the one responsible. I suppose that's why we are so fascinated with CSI shows, even if there are way too many of them on TV. I believe, in a spiritual sense, God has left some clues for us as well. When we encounter certain things, we know deep down in our soul that it resonates of God. It's a moment when us humans realize we just stepped into a "God thing"...something bigger than us. Something mysterious, yet tangible somehow. The Bible says we have been created in "God's image"...His DNA is in us, so to speak. Whether one, believes in God or not, is inconsequential, because deep within the human spirit, deep within our soul, there is a God deposit of some sort. That's why we often see the "fingerprints of God" in people regardless of whether or not they are believers. When we see these "fingerprints", these God things in nature or in other people, our souls DNA chimes in...it feels so right...it satisfies. We want more of it, don't we? As I look at the bible a few Godly fingerprints come to mind, for example. The most obvious is love. "God is love", the bible says. Perfect love is God. When we see love in action or experience it within us...ohhhh it feels so right! Cause God made us to crave it & recognize it when we encounter it. Another example that comes to mind is the "give first" mentality. We hate that self serving thing...that selfish thing...that ego-pride thing we often see, don't we? But when we encounter people who give first, with no strings attached...well that generous, thoughtful heart seems so right on, doesn't it? Well it should, it's a Godly quality...He is a give first type of God...it's got His fingerprints all over it! He gives each of us countless blessings...before we have responded to Him in any way. He gave us life, regardless of how we choose to live it out. In fact, Jesus died on the cross to pave the way for each of us, while "we were yet sinners", the bible says. "God gave His only Son...so that whomever should believe would not perish, but have eternal life" John 3:16 reminds us. Another God print in us, is the desire for "truth". We all crave it don't we? We want the truth. We seek after the truth. We don't want lies... deception...half truths...we want the truth. When people are truthful, wow how we love that! The bible says the "truth will set us free". Most of us would agree, even when that truth hurts some. Jesus said He is the "truth", that's how much God is into truth...once again His fingerprints are all over that...and we love it when we encounter truth don't we! Beauty...awe...wonder...ahhh we love these things don't we? God seems to speak to us deep within our souls through these things doesn't He? When we experience these moments, we hear God whisper, and its very cool, isn't it? Creativity...how we admire it. We love to create in our own way. We love to see others create. We love to see whats been created by human hands or in the wonders of nature. But that sense we have deep down...when we see an awesome sunset...an incredible flower...a soaring eagle...a cute, cuddly, giggling baby...a fascinating painting...an interesting sculpture...hear a heart felt song...read a poem that connects... discover an incredible invention...Wow, we love it! It's got a taste of heaven doesn't it? It's got God's fingerprints all over it! That's so cool! At ECHO, we hope to be people that discovers more & more of God's fingerprints in the world around us and in the people around us. We believe God reveals Himself in these things, and in so many more "fingerprints". This is just a few random thoughts on a handful of common "fingerprints" God has left all around us. We believe they resonate within each of us, because of that Godly DNA deposited deep within every person...that "created in God's image" stuff. When we encounter these "clues"... these "fingerprints"...we have a sense of where they come from...who's responsible for them! I believe it's God's way of drawing us toward Himself...and recognizing what He has deposited within our world and in people. It's clues designed to point us toward Him...and He's left them very intentionally. He's crazy about you...He loves you & I so much...so we might as well get used to it! Join us, as we take time to listen...take time to observe...take time to notice...take time to feel...take time to experience... these "fingerprints of God" all around us, each and every day...in each and every person...in more situations than we often recognize...in the hope we all grow closer to the God that's responsible for them and get a glimpse of His heart of love for each of us! Now that's something worth looking for!

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Tasty

I was in the shower the other day...I know that seems like an unnecessary detail and perhaps a bit creepy to consider but... after working in the yard all day with my family, mowing lawns, ripping out old fences, digging holes and hauling a bunch of crap off to the dump...it seems refreshing to mention 'I was in the shower'. Anyway, as I was 'refreshing' (ya now that sounds better don't it?) I began to consider what the bible calls the "fruit" of the Spirit. It's aspects and characteristics are listed in Galatians 5:22 and 23; "love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control." As I ponder these characteristics, I thought, "wow, those are attractive qualities to find in someone". Then I began to honestly look at most who call themselves Christian and asked, "Are we known for those qualities?" Ouch. Then I looked at myself...ugggghhh, double ouch!! Like a freind of mine said recently, "I'm trying to be a Christian". I think I like that, it sounds more like a process...a journey...a desire...even though I haven't got it all figured out yet. Ya, I got some growing to do...how 'bout you? You see, the fruit of the Spirit is what grows in us and through us, as we grow more and more like God and His love is evident in us. Unlike the gifts of the Spirit, the fruit is nurtured and can be developed in us. Spiritual gifts are given by God, our only choice is to accept them or not, like any gift in the natural, like a birthday gift, for example. But the fruit of the Spirit can be nurtured, fertilized, watered, cared for and intentionally grown in our lives. Yes the source is God, His love birthed in us, but these characteristics are the out-flow of His love in us to others. You see the fruit, the characteristics listed in Galatians are best expressed relationally, one person to another. Oh you can be at peace all by yourself. But what has a greater impact is when others see and experience the peace you have. It's interesting as you look at each characteristic of the fruit of the Spirit, how they all are best experienced and expressed in relationship with others. I think that's by God's design. He is relational by nature, and desires us to be also. As we love Him with all we got, His love grows in us and flows out to others...often evidenced in these very characteristics...these fruit. Fruit that is attractive, draws people and is tasty to experience. It has an impact on others, which is what God has always designed His love to do! When we look at some of these, we often miss, or even don't know what they are. For example, God's peace, is not an absence of conflict as we often think peace should be...its the ability to have peace in the midst of turmoil & chaos. That peace that surpasses all understanding! Now that's attractive. That's noticeable to others. That's something we all desire, and know it when we see it. In a world that does not see Jesus followers walking in very many of these qualities, is it any wonder they are not attracted? But if...if we did allow God to grow these aspects of His love in us...if we could seek to develop these things...if we intentionally desired to live a life that oozes these characteristics...do you think people may be drawn towards the Jesus in us? You bet...that's when, as in the book of Acts, people say stuff like..."we can see how much you love..." God pours out some incredible things by His Spirit as we walk in the fruit of that same Spirit; love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. In fact, many believers seek after miracles and powerful demonstrations of the gifts of the Spirit, in hopes that it will spark some revival in them and the community they in...yet history tells us a different story. Throughout history, authentic spiritual revivals or awakenings, were not centered in miracles & powerful gifts manifested...it was centered in a deep pursuit of God's best and an exponential growth in the manifestations of the "fruit" of God's Spirit in those that follow Him. It was the fruit of God's Spirit that drew people...touched people...changed people...and fanned the flames of what God was doing. It's a lesson we often forget. I suppose it seems "more God like" for the "big show"...the big miracle...but for whatever reason God more often uses imperfect people like you & me...in relationship. Now that's harder...it takes more of me. More of me in cooperation with God. It takes more of me to invest in another. Yet somehow, someway, God uses it and when he does...wow, we get blessed...and so does the one we reach out to! At ECHO we want to be "tasty" people. We desire to be people that folks go, "what's up with you guys, you're different?" We want to be refreshingly different...on purpose! Join us as we grow in God's love personally and in expressing it authentically to others!

May God's love be yours & flow through you to others!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

You Asked For It, You Got It

I've had several people request the lyric to the Steve Taylor song referenced in the last blog entry, so you asked for it, you got it...

Jesus Is For Losers

If I was driven

Driven ahead by some noble ideal

Who took the wheel?

If I was given

Given a glimpse of some glorious road

When was it sold?

So caught up in the chase

I keep forgetting my place

Just as I am

I am stiff-necked and proud

Jesus is for losers

Why do I still play to the crowd?

Just as I am

Pass the compass, please

Jesus is for losers

I'm off about a hundred degrees

If I was groping

Groping around for some ladder to fame

I am ashamed

If I was hoping

Hoping respect would make a sturdy footstool

I am a fool

Bone-weary every climb

Blindsided every time

Just as I am

I am needy and dry

Jesus is for losers

The self-made need not apply

Just as I am

In a desert crawl

Lord, I'm so thirsty

Take me to the waterfall

And if you're certain

Certain your life is some cosmic mistake

Why do you shake?

And if you're certain

Certain that faith is some know-nothing mask

Why do you still ask?

They don't grade here on the curve

We both know what we deserve

Just as you are

Just a wretch like me

Jesus is for losers

Grace from the blood of a tree

Just as we are

At a total loss

Jesus is for losers

Broken at the foot of the cross

Just as I am

Pass the compass, please

Jesus is for losers

I'm off about a hundred degrees

Just as I am

In a desert crawl

Lord, I'm so thirsty

Take me to the waterfall

lyrics by Steve Taylor

be God's!

Brian O

Lead Pastor dude, ECHO

Jesus Is For Losers

I had a couple interesting conversations lately. More than once in the past few weeks I've sat with pastors and church leaders and had them say something along the lines of, "...the key to a successful church is, you need to spend less time with the 1's and 2's and spend more time investing in the 8's and 9's..." (now in this context they are speaking of a 0 to 10 scale, where the best, most skilled, most valuable, most important, most wealthy, most influential are the 10's) My response has been simply, "Where do you see that in scripture?" It's a simple question, one no one had a ready answer for. The CEO mentality of pastoring and church leadership has projected this concept of not wasting time with the "losers" and invest in the "winners" instead, because they can get you somewhere the quickest and easiest. Now I can see the temptation in how that may "seem right", since businesses often run on that principle. Yet regardless of whether that method works in business or not, the point as believers should also be filtered through..."Where do you see that in the bible? Where do you see Jesus model that for us?" The answer is you don't see it. Jesus didn't teach it nor model it for us. In fact He modeled quite the opposite. The 12 men Jesus selected as Apostles were a rag tag bunch, made up of mostly fishermen and farmers, quite common for that time period. Matthew was a tax-collector for the Romans, a dubious job at best in his culture. A very cut throat occupation that was not well respected at all. Simon & Judas' occupations are not readily known, and appear to be inconsequential, though some suspect Judas may have had some money skills since he was the one given the responsibility for the Apostles purse (a responsibility that proved too tempting, to the point of self destruction & betrayal). This motley crue (not the band in the midst of their reunion tour by the way) was used by God (except for Judas) to change the world! In spite of their flaws, insecurities, doubts and fears Jesus delivered a message through them that still is alive and well to this day! Not because they were "8's or 9's", but because they had the right heart, and trusted Jesus enough to follow Him, learn from Him, be shaped by Him and carry out what He asked them to do. In many ways the apostles were losers by today's standards...1's & 2's...so to speak. Yet in that, I'm reminded of a Steve Taylor song written over 10 years ago entitled, "Jesus Is For Losers". It was a satirical song that reminded us that Jesus wasn't enthralled with the things we're impressed with. Jesus didn't chase after the wealthy...the influential...the talented. He invested in the "losers"...the whores...the lepers...the outcasts...the poor...even women & children (which in His day was a big deal). Jesus died for losers. He died for those on top of the hill also. He gave Himself for everyone. The question here is, not who Jesus pursues, but who do we? Who, do we as churches, pastors, & leaders pursue and what's the result? Who do we as believers "choose" to invest in and is it consistent with what Jesus taught? If we are honest, we all are losers underneath the veneer of ego, pride, selfishness and our thirst for power. Reinforcing this, I was reminded twice in the last 2 weeks of a similar concept, one I found in 1 Samuel, chapter 22. On May 28th at a cool Eugene-like coffee house in Austin, Texas called Progressive...God drew me to this portion of scripture. In it God describes the 400 men who would team up with David (eventually to be King David). These 400 men would go down in history as "David's Mighty Men"...known for incredible exploits for God. But this passage describes them as they began to gather as the 400...before anything had been done yet. They were described as "in debt, in distress & discontented". This hardly sounds like a bunch that would do mighty things. This hardly sounds like a group most churches would pursue, or seminary's would teach to attract, or "church growth people" would encourage you to embrace as world changers. Yet in God's hands, they did mighty things! I felt God encouraging me that day regarding ECHO, saying this is who ECHO will be built on..."the in debt, in distress & discontented"...don't seek after the elite. And you know, in many ways that is who God has brought and is bringing to ECHO. In fact just a few days ago I met with a local pastor and was describing the people who are being drawn into ECHO...and he said, "sounds like David's 400...the in debt, in distress &...I forgot the other "d" word..." At that moment I felt I was in the midst of a "God thing"...cause I knew I never told him of my scripture in 1 Samuel at the coffee shop in Austin a few weeks prior. I blurted out "...the disillusioned...". He said, "ya that's it...the disillusioned...that sounds like who God is bringing to you...and look what God did with those guys" Wow, God is cool...He reminded me even further that He doesn't require the talented, the beautiful, the wealthy, and the status people to accomplish His purposes. Even though our western church culture tends to project you need to be an exceptional orator, a talented musician, a seminary degreed, beautiful person with perfect smile, hairstyle, weight & snappy clothes...yet God shows us something very different. Is it any wonder why so many are spectators in our churches? How few fit the criteria we model? Yet God's criteria is very different, it begins with a heart that's willing to use what you got to impact people for God's purposes...everybody has a place...everyone is eligible...everyone has an opportunity! Jesus criteria says the "last shall be first"..."blessed are those who mourn"..."it is hard for a rich man to enter into the Kingdom"..."it takes the faith of a child to become part of the Kingdom"...and "the servant is the greatest in the Kingdom of God". Clearly His ways are not our ways...so aligning with His ways is our challenge. When in fact, it's a greater miracle when He uses people like you & me...regular folks...even losers, if you will...people who don't have their act together...then you know it's God doing something, cause it surely ain't us! There's nothing we can take credit for in that, and that's a good thing...it's just us depending on Him. Isn't that the way God has always meant it to be?

be God's!
Brian O
Lead Pastor dude, ECHO