I agree with you Jill, I definately want to stay in the backround and just focus on whats really important, my relationship with Christ. Listening to the message and trying to figure out what directly relates to me and what Christ is specifically trying to tell me. However I was complelled last week to speak my mind and make myself known. Im not sure why, it just happened and I didnt feel out of place.

As for traditions, one of the topics I felt compelled to contribute to, they seem to be a shelter for the guilty. They feel that just going relives them of the responsibility of they're actions over the week. If people go to church for traditions sake they are disabling the real power of actually going there to be moved, influenced and recharged with the spirit. I think that only happens when I surround myself with other christians and suddenly I dont feel apprehensive about my relationship with Christ and the door to my heart and soul is wide open. I think thats why I get so emotional at church because suddenly there is no barrier between me and Christ, its a direct line. Its incredible and I know if I can get out of my own way then Christ can really get to work.

I think Dads last paragraph really nails it Jill, there are no rules when it comes to fellowship with Christ as often as you want and in many different formats, how liberating. Throw tradition to the wind and let go of your cynicism. Traditions became traditions because they dont change, and often lack of change leads to complacency. Complacency kills, as my drill instructor used to say all time.

I figured Id make it a post instead...

First bible study, first church appearance for me

Okay so I did it, first blog ever, honestly it was so easy a monkey could have randomly done it (bad evolution joke I know). Anyway, I have been to the first of many small bible studies, studying the book of John, with a friend from work, Brent, and I have to say that I was pleasently surprised. Troy, was pretty articulate and easy to follow, he seemed to have a good knowledge of the word, as well as a open and giving personality. I forsee this to be good for me. I also went to church today and again was taken back by how welcome and comfortable I felt. The bible study before the sermon was informative and they asked some very tough questions of us and confonted very good issues. Right up my alley, all good things. The pastor was good and the whole church gave me the feeling of the Nazerene, sp? So it felt very comfortable and familiar. Other than that I would say my alcohol struggles are not over but are certainly curbed. Which has lent more time to Christ. Everyday is a battle but I'm beginning to realize the key to most of this life with Christ, besides your faith in Him, is fellowship with other believers. Surround yourself with like minds, and let God do the rest. As complicated as I'm sure I have made my life, there really isnt too much to figure out when you finnaly let go and really understand that this is God's plan not yours. Obviously much harder to do then say or type in this case.