We all fall short — and we all don’t really have a problem admitting that. But when someone or something reminds us that we fall short, well, that’s a different story.

Every time someone ignores you or doesn’t think you are important or wants even to hurt in you in passive or active ways, you are reminded that you couldn’t make things right.

Every time your career or family doesn’t measure up to your hopes and expectations you are reminded that you fall short to create outcomes that are beneficial to you.

When I am disappointed by my relationships or by my ministry I often bear an incredible weight of condemnation. My inner dialogue goes something like this: “I am not who I should be…I need to be a better person, less selfish, more talented, funnier, and more strategic. But since I am not I am having to deal with these disappointing outcomes. I am getting what I deserve.”

In theological terms I am bearing the weight of my sin and there is no atonement. I simply have to carry the consequences of my inadequacy.

But thankfully God doesn’t make me pay for being selfish, or not being a great leader, or not being an engaging preacher. The truth is I am free to serve God and people no matter the outcome of relationships or ministry because I don’t have to be ANYTHING for God or people. I don’t have to be a good leader (I’m not trying to be a bad one) I don’t even have to be humble! (I am not intentionally trying to be prideful). I am free and I don’t have to bear the weight of my failings anymore.

If you haven’t heard yet, this tragedy happened last Thursday at an apartment complex our church is just beginning to serve.

We have done a neighborhood party for these apartments as well as beginning the process of repairing and providing some more recreational opportunities for the children. Pray that God would give us wisdom and love to see what Passage Church can do in the wake of this terrible situation.

We officially launched the new vision of Passage Church yesterday at Lakota West Freshman School. The vision is:

Helping People Trust Jesus and His Church

This vision is a rallying cry for our church to take responsibilty for the people who do not trust Jesus or the church and see that the church does indeed have treasure — not people, not programs, not facilities, but the good news about Jesus and what He has done.