Thoughts...

I've been reading 'Simple Church' by Thom S. Rainer & Eric Geiger. It's based on research done on churches in the US, so you have to 'translate' a bit, but the basic premise is that churches which are growing are simple. They are based on loving God, loving others & serving the world... all that these churches do falls into one or more of these areas of focus, and the church stands back from time to time to ensure that all 3 areas are in balance in the life of the church, and that people are encouraged to move from one area to another, and to give each of them balance in their lives. I am very drawn to this - and can't help seeing a link with the simplicity and enthusiasm of Andrew. Though he hasn't really sussed who Jesus is, he is happy to follow, and keen to draw other along, too, though he was just a simple fisherman.
Maybe we need a simple Advent, a simple christmas and a simple new year??

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