So really, tell me, "What difference does it make?" This work you are doing, this effort you are giving, this 'stuff' you are creating, this ministry you have - what difference does it really make?
Forgive me for being the quintessential American pragmatist in the spirit of William James (and what a wonderful image of James to the left)... but, I think it is a fair question.
I don't mean to be rude or presumptuous asking it. In fact, I ask it of myself a lot (although, come to think about it, I need to be asking it a little more consistently than I am).
We think what we are doing is great, profound, important, needed, vital (need I go on). Really, a little more self-suspicion could be useful. For all of us.
These ideas you are wrestling with ... so, what's the real difference they are making in your life? Are you wiser, deeper, more Christ-like because of them?
These programs you are planning ... so, what's the real difference they are making in the lives of others? Are they becoming wiser, deeper, holier, more humble, more loving, more serving, more grateful, more generous, more Christ-like because of them?
These books you are reading (heck, I may as well include the blogs you are perusing, gulp - and this one as well) ... so, what's the real difference they are making in your life?
These sermons and lessons (and whatever else you call them) that you are working on and giving out to others ... so, what's the real difference they are making?
And if the difference doesn't seem to be much, maybe a little self-suspicion could be useful.
Brian Rice
Leadership ConneXtions International
For the pencil drawing check out this nice site.
For the William James image, check out this delightful gallery.
