:: Thoughts from Brennan Manning

A group of us went to Argyle to hear Brennan Manning Sunday morning at Crosstimbers church. Here are some thoughts from his talk.

God loves stories. That's why he made each of us, so He could have so many stories.

Our perspective about the kingdom of God
We think people who go to church, who read the bible every once in a while, and pray every once in a while, and take a strong stand on abortion are real kingdom people. But really they are people who keep their distance from God. We want to get close enough to be warmed by the fire of God but not too close that we become consumed by the fire.

Did Jesus die so that we could attend a service on Sunday?

No Jesus died that we would be prophets, and lovers, and human torches on this world. We should be in awe of the cross. Let's marvel at the cross.

Will we dare to trust that God loves us as we are and not what we should be. The popular myth is: If I change God will love me. No, we come just as we are. The truth is: God will love us and because of His love we will change.

If Jesus walked up to the front of this building this morning, looked over the crowd, and then walked straight to you and looked you in the eye, What would his face reflect, his voice reflect. Would it reflect "Your not working hard enough, your not meeting the standard, I am so disappointed in you." No, it would more than likely reflect "thanks for coming here this morning in search of me, thanks for helping that lady out this week, thanks for a heart that wants to know me." Jesus wants to know us.

Is your Christianity a moral code or ethic or a love affair?

I was ambushed by Jesus . . .
told some testimony about his six months living in a cave in the desert. He was encountered by the love of God one night while in prayer in the cave.

Most Christians God is way too small - the God of the word is way larger

True words from Christ are those that are burned on your heart. Words from Him burn on your heart.

On the day you experience the love of Jesus Christ, nothing in this world will ever be as beautiful, no man or woman can touch that love.

Nothing in this world can compare with one true touch from God. It was a good morning and a time to refocus on the incredible love of our incredible God.