As I have said earlier, my church is studying the book, “Emotionally Healthy Church” together. Last night was the teaching on the first principle of emotional health, Looking Beneath the surface. The gist of the message is that, like an iceberg, the bulk of who we are and what is going on in our lives is below the surface. As such, it is important to understand what is not seen instead of continually manage what is seen. Good stuff and refreshing to the soul.

More importantly, we talked about Katrina relief efforts. We took a collection for three members’ families that are in New Orleans and Mississippi. The financial board voted to give the remaining money in the budget geared towards benevolence to these family. So before it was done, the president asked the congregation to please make needs known as soon as possible so that no one that needs help is missed. One member’s family is trying to her family here. I was about to take another road trip when a good friend reminded me of my priorities: my wife is 8.5 months pregnant. I am hoping to arrange for someone else to go. My thanks to good friends that help me gain perspective.

Outside of our own members, our minister talked with the minister of the local Vineyard Christian Fellowship about a multi-church effort in our city to adopt families relocating here. More details are coming, but folks are opening their homes in preparation of this concerted event. It is encouraging to see.

All in all, it reminded me of why I stay a member of a church with such a troubled past.