meditatio at the water's edge

Joel and I had a chance to hear John Ortberg speak this week. In light of the whole catholic scandal, he mentioned how pastors are getting into so much trouble these days. He also noted that these problems are nearly always the result of character issues rather than theological issues.

Of course, that was not breaking news, but it makes me ask the question: Maybe we have had it all wrong as pastors. Maybe following Christ is all about character and has nearly nothing to do with "right" theology? Paul tells young Christ followers to imitate him... not Christ... but him! If we see ourselves in the same way, would our own character correctly take center stage? Instead, our center stage is a podium and well crafted sermon that tells people about a "right" understanding of God - generally at the expense of other Christ followers... a.k.a. Christian brothers and sisters.

So, let us allow the Spirit to mold us into imitators that dare to be imitated!