Tuesday, March 23, 2010

The 'Crazy Love' Experiment

“To just read the Bible, attend church, and avoid “big” sins-
is this passionate, wholehearted love for God?”
-François Fénelon, The Seeking Heart

At first glance, this seems a rather innocent question with an overtly conspicuous answer. But what I find so fascinating…and in all honesty, quite alarming….is the arguably overt disconnect between two mutually exclusive elements of the Christian faith.

I was recently loaned a copy of Francis Chan’s 2008 book Crazy Love: Overwhelmed By A Relentless God. Warned that it was one of those books that could cause acute discomfort, I was replete with anticipation. Anyone that has spent a considerable amount of time with me can testify to the fact that I welcome a challenge. My motto in life is that our greatest personal growth comes when we are the most uncomfortable. However, nothing could have prepared me for Mr. Chan’s assault on my existence as a Christian.

Of this I am certain: There is a God. His Son, Jesus, walked this Earth and preached His Word. Jesus was crucified on the cross and rose again on the third day. This is what I believe. My faith is based on this. But this belief, no matter how strongly I hold to it, speaks nothing to the relationship I have with my Creator. Francis Chan incessantly talks about loving God in such away that it profoundly changes who we are. As I finished the last page, I was left asking myself only one question. How can I truly love God in such a way that it changes who I am?

It’s easy to read a book and say, “Wow! That could revolutionize the world.” We might remember some of the talking points in conversation, but over time, we forget. We are eager to blame our busy schedules; however, I think, if we’re honest, it’s more about complacency...or blatant disobedience. Change is hard. But to continue living my life with this growing void is unbearably depressing.

So, are you up for a challenge? The ‘Crazy Love’ Experiment is about devoting the next year of my life to testing the theories laid out in the book…and I would definitely welcome the company. Each entry on this blog will focus on a concept found in the book and will include some thought provoking questions....and sometimes homework! I can only make this promise: You will undoubtedly experience some level of discomfort. But…it could change our lives!

1 comment:

  1. Deirdre, I want to take you up on this challenge! I call myself a Christian yet I really have no idea what that TRULY means or even how to live my life every day in a way that honors the sacrifice Jesus Christ made for me or that shows my love for God and even for myself. I haven't read this book but I will buy it this week. My life needs spiritual discomfort - desperately. You know that as well as I do. I love you so much for being the woman you are and for always challenging me to live better. I can't wait to read your posts and to share with you what I am learning and how my life is hopefully changing through your powerful challenge!

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