An Epic Journey

 Last night we had the privilege of meeting with Rick Rusaw, the Lead Pastor of Lifebridge Christian Church.  Those few hours with him were worth the entire trip. 

Rick wrote the book Externally Focused Church (which he gave us a free copy of – what a guy!).  The idea is that the church needs to move beyond it’s four walls and be involved in the life and service of the community.  It was great to hear him talk about this because it is something I have really been grappling with and I think he has helped give some language to how to express it.  I am really looking forward to diving into the book!

Rick is not just a writer but also a gifted leader and communicator.  He seems to have a crystal clear picture of how his influence can be used to leverage the kingdom of God in the world!  I just felt like a sponge.  I asked him how much it would cost to come and just follow him around for a week . 

My main thought about Rick was that he did not get there overnight.  It was hard persistent growth.  There was a lot of “going the extra mile” type things hidden in what he said.  I suppose another way of putting it is “doing the hard things”.  He seems to not just settle for “good enough”, but pushes to make sure that, as my friend Justin Moxley says, “you get the last 10%!” (that’s all for you Justin!!!!)

It seems that the path to greatness lies in the hard things – serving, loving, becoming less.  It is not in the greatness itself.  I want to be that man! 

ps – I miss my sweet wife Jenni and her tummy (Peter) – I’m sure she won’t appreciate that !

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