We have Mirror Neurons in our brains that fire when performing an action or when watching the same action performed, mirror neurons help us learn by mimicking others. Perhaps even more important is that mirror neurons help create emotional connections thorugh empathy – hence, we relate in our pain.

Michael

That fundamental human need of authenticity, presence, and communication you mentioned seem to be a vital part of that support and encouragement. They inspire us to hang on and teach us we aren’t alone in dealing with struggle.

It seems the church is learning to become more open, honest, and authentic. But it’s scary for any of us to be so vulnerable…right? That takes a deep trust God’s in control.

Hummm…that may just take us back to the first comment in this post and Romans 5. It may help explain why tribulation is such a vital part of our journey. Without it can we really learn to be open, honest, and authentic?

Tami – I think you’re right on. It’s becoming apparent in our effort to connect, build relationships, and encourage others we’ve focused too much on the blessings of God and struggle avoidance. We’ve left the impression that if you’re walking in the spirit you can actually avoid it. Of course there are a multitude of blessings in the Christian walk, but in the quiet corners of our hearts we know that we just can’t get around our sinful nature and the pain of it.

I’d guess we’ve all been encouraged by these words:

In this world you’ll have tribulation…but be of good cheer for I have overcome the world.

Your comments suggest, and I’m seeing it as well, an increasing interest to learn how to overcome, not simply avoid, struggle. Even if that requires us to buck up, stare it in the face, and learn to endure it with a joyful spirit. That seems far more authentic.

Mark – I agree that suffering was the norm with most if not all Biblical characters. Think Moses for 40 years, Joseph in prison two years, David fleeing Saul, John the Baptist…etc. I appreciate Romans 5 as well and how it lays out the steps to lasting hope. Imagine….hope requires trials..even with our kids.

Ann – Great thought regarding building trust. I was told once that the best management teams are those that have been to hell and back together. The shared struggle develops insight… but maybe more significant you learn who’s really trustworthy when the chips are down. Most important, as you mentioned, we build trust in God through our pain which is our only hope…thanks Ann.

On a seperate note, I am troubled by how closely your analysis of the church’s response to members leaving mimicks that of a business or marketing scheme. Not to say that your analysis is incorrect, because I believe you are right that the church has approached its mission with a business mindset. But this, to me, misses the heart of what Christ’s ministry was all about. Market research or excellently developed programs will ever replace the depth and meaningfulness of face-to-face contact. And sharing in life together.

Though I and my fellow digital-agers may hate to admit it, the digital age can not replace the fundamental human need of autheticity, presence, and communication. Which can only happen face-to-face.

You can take what I’m going to say with a grain of salt:
I think that marketing research for churches can be a good thing, but one of the results of it is that in an effort to become “world-friendly”, it’s caused us to water down the gospel and the call to discipleship so much that at times, it’s difficult to know how Christians are even different from the world.

I think that the chuch has underestimated it’s young people by trying to make being a christian ‘easy’. I don’t believe young people as a whole are looking for the easy way out. I think this generation is looking for something worth dying for…let alone to live for. It’s not that the church is asking to much, but possibly, not enough.

I can see why the commitment level is low when discipleship is not necessarily a calling, but has been reduced to a mere suggestion. I will be the first to say that I don’t enjoy suffering, but I think it’s possibly “easier” when we know it’s part of following Christ instead of an annoyance that could be avoided.

I don’t know if I’ve made any sense at all…and like I said, take it with a grain (or possibly a shaker full) of salt.

Ann

and some hopeful words from Romans 5:3-4 …but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.

I heard an interesting piece from a television interview – a celebrity, who had had to work very hard for commercial success was discussing that she was having to create “obstacles” in her child’s life so that her child could develop strength.

I certainly think suffering is a precursor to learning – not always – but it’s a great force for learning, innovative change.

have you heard the old gospel/bluegrass spiritual “Talk About Sufferin’”?

“Talk about sufferin’ here below
and let’s keep a followin Jesus…”

good stuff.