As most of you know, Deb and I are from LA, Lafayette to be specific. New Orleans was a regular road trip we have made too many times to count.
Brad Pitt and his wife, Angelina Jolie, did something very unusual last year: They moved to New Orleans. Everyone has been suspicious about how serious they were about homesteading there, as they said that they just wanted to be a part of renewal there.
After reading and watching what I have enclosed, I think the question should be settled!
I want to cut to the chase here, as I have to run to meet an architect for our Herman St building: I think these guys are putting alot of believers to shame! New Orleans economically is devastated. It is not a pretty place. Like here in Pensacola, "post Ivan", many, many believers moved away. Its kind of sad when Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie are being more 'missional' in investing their lives into a downtrodden community than most believers are.
I dont mean to sound harsh, but......am I missing something here??!!!?
I am seeing something happening: People leaving 'comfortable' places to become change-agents in 'UNcomfortable' places......New Orleans,the Gulf Coast, 3rd world nations, etc.... I see this desire happening in the younger generation in particular, as they want their lives to make a difference. They are intentionally moving into lower income neighborhoods. They are getting to know the people in the area and seeking to be a blessing, to be Jesus in their midst.
I think in the next 20 years we will be seeing a whole new paridigm changing the way we see living out our Christianity in a way that is much more like the Son of God.
He came and lived AMONGST us....
Just a thought...
PB
Loved your comments about Brad Pitt and the reality of becoming missional. Life makes no sense apart from community. People need it because God created it. JESUS said I will build my church.... what is church if not a community of people called to be TOGETHER in life through good and bad times. Thanks for building that community in Pensacola. I pray for you and your church community daily!
Merry Christmas;
Jim
Posted by: Jim Mather | December 05, 2007 at 10:24 AM