How to Stop Playing Relational Pong

Rob Bell characterized revenge as being like a game of "relational pong". Somebody hurts you. They give you pain. A wound. And in relational Pong, you just give it right back to them. And then they give it back to you. And you give it back. And back and forth and back and forth it goes. I hated Pong (the computer game) as a young child. I hate Pong the relational game now! Click here to read Sunday's Sermon which deals with putting a stop to relational Pong by focusing on Jesus' work on the cross.

Here are some other thoughts from Sunday.

* The processional in the morning was great.
* Loved Malcolm's children's story. It fits right in with the upcoming sermon for Easter (which was inspired while eating a MOS Burger!)
* Enjoyed the energy from the choir.
* LOVED the group that lead "Lamb of God". Has ICB ever had Piano, three guitars and drums in a morning worship service? (next week look for piano, flute, trombone and french horn)
* Great to have Jack back on keyboard in the evening, along with Esra on guitar and Beatrice and Siri leading vocals. We probably had 10 different nationalities represented in our music leadership alone yesterday!)
* Laura and I really enjoyed lunch with Paul, Narada, Mark, Tracy, Jenni and Niki (and everyone's kids) yesterday. It was chaotic, but fun.
* Really appreciate Andrew's heart for ministry.
* Loved hearing that Amy's dad became a Christian.
* Looking forward to Curt's baptism at some point.
* Continued to be amazed at the massive response to the sermon series on Forgiveness. Perhaps I'll have to hit that topic again next year. Feel like there is soooo much to say.

* Already looking forward to this week. (1) Pray that tons of people who don't normally come to church show up at Intl Church for Easter. (2) Pray that we creatively and faithfully present the gospel. (3) Pray that those who come and hear the good news about God, understand it and embrace God because of it.

Who have you invited to church with you this week?

Easter is a great opportunity to make a few invitations. In terms of Evangelism, Easter is a great excuse. "Come on, it's Easter. It's the most holy day of the year for Christians. Why don't you join me? There'll be chocolate bunnies!" :) How can THAT go wrong?

God bless and see you Sunday.