The goal here is to create dialogue among those of us journeying together via Mosaic (plus whoever else wants to jump in). I'm hoping that in the end much conversation occurs around the Text and eventually these discussions will inform the content of our public gatherings on Sundays. Especially for those of us who learn best via conversation, this should be transforming.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Existing Better - Prayer #2
What do the specifics about our prayer life reveal about what we believe, not just about prayer, but about God? Thoughts?
I agree with Joe, and through that....I've found that a lot of my prayer is very self-centered, not very God-like. "Thank you for MY family, what you've provided for ME, for keeping US safe, providing for US in this way..."
Analyzing the specifics has made me realize God wants me to step outside of myself and my prayers and go for bigger.
I like Joe's comment that our prayer life reveals what we believe about God.
I think God is like a fractal...and while you may not be able to deduce that from the way I interact with him, the fact that I think of him that way explains a lot about our relationship.
Fractals are these amazing beautiful artworks that you don't realize are just repeating versions of itself getting smaller and smaller with no end. They're described as "self-similar". Google the Mandelbrot Set, or picture taking a triangle, putting a smaller copy of that triangle inside it, and repeating that indefinately.
Steph will be able to explain it better, but that was my favorite part of my math class in high school.
A few quick thoughts to keep the gears oiled (to keep conversations alive and helpful):
1. Understand the point (see above). The goal is honestly to create dialogue that leads to community formed theology. This is not a teaching platform, it's a place for dialogue, and we hope it is a lot of fun for you.
2. Nobody wants to read a post of more than 200 words; you can write more but know that people will skim what you write. The fewer the words, the better.
3. Everybody wants to be engaged, drawn-out, etc. so learn to ask good questions. If you come across as the authority, you will be, because nobody will take the conversation any further.
4. Take the time to return and address the questions people ask from your posts. Leave too many unanswered and people will stop asking.
5. Don't be a jerk; relationships matter more than answers.
8 comments:
I like the question, but isn't the question the answer?
The specifics of our prayer life reveal what we believe, not just about prayer, but about God.
I would say so.
I agree with Joe, and through that....I've found that a lot of my prayer is very self-centered, not very God-like. "Thank you for MY family, what you've provided for ME, for keeping US safe, providing for US in this way..."
Analyzing the specifics has made me realize God wants me to step outside of myself and my prayers and go for bigger.
Which Jessica...there's a few dozen at Mosaic?
Herbig. :)
I like Joe's comment that our prayer life reveals what we believe about God.
I think God is like a fractal...and while you may not be able to deduce that from the way I interact with him, the fact that I think of him that way explains a lot about our relationship.
What is a fractal?
(I know you've explained it before, but I'm slow to learn.)
And welcome Jessica, it is great to have you!
Fractals are these amazing beautiful artworks that you don't realize are just repeating versions of itself getting smaller and smaller with no end. They're described as "self-similar". Google the Mandelbrot Set, or picture taking a triangle, putting a smaller copy of that triangle inside it, and repeating that indefinately.
Steph will be able to explain it better, but that was my favorite part of my math class in high school.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fractal
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