1. I have met so many brilliant people in the past five years. I have been in the right circles [networks] I suppose, and have had the opportunity to meet so many creative, amazing people who I now consider friends... and who inspire me to take risks and to continue seeking the kingdom.
2. I have had the opportunity to be part of re-thinking the church. Not just how it does stuff or what it looks like, but what it's very nature is as well... and who it exists for.
   
3. Life-change. The bottom line is I have seen people change. People being transformed as they encounter Jesus... even "a wretch like me". Wicked cool.
4. Less structure. More room to be creative, think differently, take risks. Fail, and get back up and keep going. Structure suffocates me for the most part. Like Kramer, "I'm out there and loving every minute of it!"
   
5. Following Jesus is always the best way to go. I highly recommend it. I came here believing that this is what he wanted. Had he not been in this thing I am sure I would see the experience differently. But he has been at every turn and has changed me so much.
   
6. Flexibility. I essentially do what needs to be done, but my time is far more flexible. That's not to say I am less busy than I was when I was working in a traditional church, but the things I spend time on are more flexible and very different.
7. Worshiping with a community you love in a coffee house at a busy street corner in the downtown of a great city is way under-rated.
   
8. I am reminded constantly what a weak man I am. And I am forced to relinquish and trust God. Quite refreshing for the soul.
9. It has allowed me to stay in full-time pastoral ministry. Honestly, other than a church I start, where would I pastor? Who would hire me? How long would I have lasted?
   
10. Fostering healthy community, participating in the kingdom, and incarnating the gospel is the task of every follower of Jesus. Church planting has been the best way for me to begin to do that and inspire it in a community.
    

Labels: church planting, leadership, the freeway