Week I

Hey Zach,

It’s weird to think that you’re one of the people I share my thoughts with the most, because of all my friends I’ve probably spent the least time with you. Maybe it’s because we don’t go to the same school or know many of the same people that we can talk more easily. But anyways, I wanted to share two parables that have come up basically every Sunday this summer (even when I was in SF). The first was the Parable of the Good Samaritan. This really struck me for the first time this summer, even though I’ve read it countless times. I think after the messiness of the church break-up, much of my faith was challenged. Adults who were supposed “spiritual leaders” acted like children, and the love/fellowship that LBC prided itself in seemed to vanish. The Good Samaritan has helped me better understand God’s desire for Christians, and his calling for us to Love all. The parable was a much needed reminder of His love. I realized that I am the broken, beaten man who others would pass over if they could see my true nature, and thus I realized how truly amazing and satisfying God’s love for me us. I also learned that God wants us to approach everyone in our path (neighbors) with love. This seems very different from how Christians currently behave and are perceived. Many respond to the broken with hatred. They make those who are not Christian the “other” without realizing that we all sin. I’m trying to shift my mindset to being one of love, one that is patient with others because I have infinite love already provided to me from God. Anyways this got sorta long so I’ll talk about the other parable next time.

Peace,

Nathan

update:

I’m currently in a weird limbo, where most of my friends are at college and my sisters have resumed school. There’s not much to do, but I still feel like there’s not enough time before college starts.