Radical Grace in Life and Leadership

People of the Second Chance

GAY MARRIAGE AND CLASSIC GRACE KILLING

Posted by Mike Foster:

This week the California law banning gay marriage was overturned. Without question, Prop 8 has been a volatile issue in California.

Unfortunately, the results of the gay marriage debate have been polarizing and divisive.

First off let me say, I live in California. I had to endure the $60 million worth of attack ads from both sides during the election season. I’ve heard all the arguments. And yes, I did vote on the issue.

So I’m not writing this post so we can debate even further. I’m actually quite sick of it. I’m writing to address our lack of grace and civility towards each other in the midst of this ongoing debate.

In my new book GRACENOMICS, I talk about how in order for grace to work, we must be willing to see someone else’s perspective.

Black and white thinking is deadly in our relationships with each other. I also believe our inability to see another’s point of view is the highest form of disrespect.

THE PROP 8 BATTLE IS CLASSIC GRACE KILLING.

No one listens. Everyone is so damn certain about everything. And each side has it all figured out. Name calling and yelling are all on the menu.

With Prop 8 we have witnessed the text book formula for demonizing people with opposing ideas. Simplify their views and then not offer them the same humanity you would want shown to yourself. Both sides are guilty.

Now pundits pontificate, news agencies score another hot topic, and fundraisers salivate over the opportunity to raise big money again.

The gay marriage debate breaks my heart and stands in strong opposition to the things I believe we should truly care about…each other.

And to my church buddies, let me say this.

I’ve always tried to let the teachings of Jesus set my priorities and my passions. I’ve always thought it was a wise thing to look at him as the example. Old Testament, New Testament, Paul, the prophets, all great stuff. But when in doubt, I default to Jesus’ modeling for life. Especially with people. Call me a heretic if you want, but thats how I roll.

And as I look at Jesus, I see him responding so very tenderly to sexual issues. I think he knew that is what we needed. Remember how he surprised us with his kindness towards the woman caught in adultery. No harshness or brutal condemnation. No raising his voice or cutting remarks. He left that intensity for the hypocrites. Just something to consider as we open our big yappers.

The gay marriage argument will continue. That is certain.

But it is my hope that in the midst of the fighting, debating, and stirring of intense emotions, that civility is possible. From both sides.

And in the darkness of the debate, the light of grace will break forth.

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A QUICK TOUR OF OUR BANGKOK HOME

Posted by Mike Foster:

I shot a quick video of the condo my family and I will be living in for the next 2 months.

We feel really lucky to be staying in such a cool spot.

I posted a few Bangkok shots on Flickr too.

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THE KEY TO UNHAPPINESS: THE PLEASURE FLASH

Posted by Mike Foster:

A big mistake we make in life is to base our happiness on a “PLEASURE FLASH.” This is where our life simply jumps from one pleasure to another pleasure. It is a flash of joy and excitement….and then it is over. It is the fast food(junk food) of our souls.

Here is what I mean:

1. Your happiness at work will not be sustained by a pay raise or a year end bonus.

2. Healthy sexuality is not found in a one night stand, 15 minutes of love making with your spouse, or in a porn binge.

3. An exciting worship experience every Sunday will never lead to a sustainable faith.

4. Losing 10 pounds in two weeks will not overcome your dissatisfaction with your body.

5. Buying the “brand of your dreams” will only lead to you wanting more.

6. Winning the game, getting the book deal, or writing the hit song, will never satisfy.

A PLEASURE FLASH can bring excitement, but never happiness.

So right now, take a moment and identify the quick highs in your life.

Is it possible that it is THESE VERY THINGS that are responsible for leaving you empty?

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NEWSPRING LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE

Posted by Jud Wilhite:

I’m really looking forward to being part of the Newspring Leadership Conference right around the corner. I’ll be speaking along with Perry Noble, Francis Chan, Mark Driscoll, Steven Furtick and Judah Smith. That’s an amazing group of leaders for a one-day event. It happens Thursday, September 16th, 2010.

August 13th is the deadline for the early bird rate (which is $99!!). You can find out more here.

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LOVING YOUR SHADOW

Posted by Mike Foster: POTSC Tees $15

I’ve got a shadow. The dark side of my life. You know what I’m talking about right?

My thought life can be vicious. My father skills are infected by my own selfishness. At times I can be arrogant and condescending. (And that’s just the start of the list.)

I have light, but I also have a shadow. And you’ve got one too.

The temptation is to hide my darkness. But to deny it makes it stronger and more destructive.

Tony Schwarz from The Energy Project says, “the highest value is not created by focusing solely on our strengths and ignoring our weaknesses, but by being attentive to both. No where is this more critical in than in the way we see ourselves.”

So today, instead of trying to ignore your shadow, trying showing it a little attention.

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