That Narrow Road

As of lately, my eyes are opening rather widely to the things of Western culture that go against the nature of the Kingdom of God. Perhaps this is the Father's way of preparing my heart to a new culture, one that does things differently than the way I may be familiar with. 

Yesterday, Jose and I were discussing some of the changes that may occur in our worldview, both theoretically and practically, as we set off to Central Eurasia. But he said something that is still ringing in my ear 24 hours later: "Here in America, we do the things we do because we think it's the best way to do them." You're probably going, well obviously...why wouldn't we? And you're right. We shouldn't do anything one way when there could be a better way, right? This reminds me of the many encounters we had as newly weds when one spouse does something by tradition that the other thinks is rather odd. In fact, story time. 

*leans back, clasps hands together* About a week ago, we decided to have a spaghetti night. We happened to have some friends over (not for dinner), so I was busy entertaining them while Jose kindly cooked dinner. Next thing I know, dinner is ready! I look to my wonderful husband as he is digging in and ask, "how is it?" He quickly replies, "ehh." He goes onto explain to me that there wasn't enough sauce to mix in with the pasta. I'm all like, "uhm, excuse me, did you mix them altogether at once?" "Well of course I did, I always do!" Needless to say, he and I cook and mix pasta and sauce very differently. Why? Because we both (very strongly) believe that the way we do it individually is the best way. 

I'm not going to sit here and point out all of the American practices that are "unbiblical" because that discussion would be aimless. Rather, I place in your hands the challenge to look at your culture through a Kingdom lens. [What do I mean by that?] Take overall principles found it the Word, like community, trust, faith, obedience, and apply them to your life. 

While I'm not going to nitpick at American culture, I will take a moment and be transparent about what this looks like for me:
Almost weekly I am faced with the question, whether it be from a fellow student or a professor, "So what are you going to do when you graduate?" Sadly, it was worse when I was a freshman, before I even found my footing! The most frustrating thing about this question is that those who ask it are either expecting a grandiose response or one to compare their own plans up against. "Kingdom culture," as I will take the liberty of calling it, says one of two things with pure confidence, "The Father hasn't directed me yet, so I am waiting on Him" or "Point A, until He leads me otherwise." These are the principles of trust and obedience. Unfortunately, saying this with confidence becomes an issue when these answers (especially the first one) are looked down upon based on their insufficiency. 

American culture teaches security and planning, so of course this goes against the grain! But friends, I dare you to recognize that the Father has not called us to coincide with culture. His ways are higher, which means they beg of us more than we may feel like we have to give. But it's out of our lives laid down and our resistance against the continuity of comfortable living that we find true joy, true fulfillment, and ultimate Kingdom success. It's time that we put to rest the constant comparison game and measure ourselves according to His call on our lives. *cue motivational music*

Why adventure?

"Isn't what you're doing hard work? Why is it 'The Lopez Adventures?'" I've been asked that once or twice here in the last few weeks, and I haven't really found that the question deserves an answer. To me, it's so painfully obvious that I shouldn't have to respond. But my wife tells me constantly that I'm a little too extreme sometimes, so I thought I'd take a stab here: life is supposed to be an adventure. Ever since I was a kid, climbing trees and exploring the woods behind my aunt's house, I've always had a sense of adventure. My first overseas experience had me begging for more. My second had me addicted. I don't know where we get this idea that just because we "pick up our crosses daily" that we do so with awful perspectives. I love that I have been called to do what we're going to do. Isn't the hard work an adventure in itself? I've sometimes struggled with the thought that others might think because I find it exciting, it's just a vacation. What we want to do is far more than a vacation... It's hard work, tiring, frustrating, overwhelming.... I don't want to be naive. I do, however, want to approach this journey with an attitude of excitement. We're going to do work, don't worry. If you choose to partner with us, you can rest assured that you won't be throwing your money away on a grand vacation. Instead, you'll be investing into an adventure that is sure to change not only my life, but yours as well... Not to mention the people of Central Eurasia. This may be called The Lopez Adventures, but you're invited to participate in this adventure as well. Come with us, learn with us, be with us. I know this seemed more like a rant, maybe it was... But I wanted to express this thought: this is an adventure and we're inviting you to be a part of it. Thank you for reading my post, I promise my next one will be much more engaging. :-)