Church Shopping....

...I don't like the sound of those two words. When we go shopping we look for things that we like, look good or fit. In other words we search for things that conform to us, our shape and opinion. It's easy to look at a church the same way...do we like how it looks, sounds and feels? All of these things, in my opinion, are only small, unimportant parts of a church. We need to look deeper and look for a church that conforms to God, not to us. But that isn't always easy.

Exhibit A: This morning we attended a church that met in a movie theater. Yes, a movie theater, one that I can remember going to in high school. We left and these were the first thoughts that came to mind: the lead singer must have been off key 90% of the time, the dark theater and comfy chairs were the perfect combo for a nap and that the movie posters were pretty annoying when you're at church. After we sifted through our thoughts on the exterior appearance we realized that the sermon seemed right on and the mission of the church good as well. We felt very welcome and comfortable amongst these brothers and sisters. It's maybe not the most aesthetically pleasing setting for church, but last time I checked, that was not one of God's requirements.

Drive, and then drive a bit more.

It's official: moving (especially cross country moving) stinks. Luckily, however, we were able to recruit the help of about six wonderful Spokane friends to load up our moving truck in a short 45 minutes. It was wonderful. After a quick, early morning breakfast at my sister's and walkie-talkies in hand, we were on our way to Sheridan, WY. Thanks to a couple of steep passes and a gigantic tow truck, a 9 hour drive somehow turned into 13. At the end of the day, just as I could see the exit to our hotel I'm blinded by flashing red and blue lights. I got a warning for not turning off my brights for the cop driving in front of me. Thank the Lord it was only a warning--he probably figured that driving from Spokane was punishment enough.

Day two proved to be breeze compared to the first. Seven hours later we were descending upon the Mile High City, but it wasn't at all what we expected. One of the sunniest cities in the nation was covered by a blanket of clouds and rain. It was depressing knowing that we left 85 degree weather behind in Spokane. With the help of my dad we rearranged the furniture in my room to fit our bed. My mom installed one of these for us--get one, it will change your shower experience. It's strange to be living at home again, but we are convinced that the Lord will use this time for good.

The rain is gone and the beautiful, blue Colorado sky is back. It feels good to be back in Bronco country.