Who Knows You?

Who really knows you? That question came to mind after reading a quote recently, people today are "acquainted with many people, but they are known by none". Who really knows you? Your dreams, your passions, your failures, your thoughts, your skeletons, your fears, your good & bad habits, your junk? Who knows what you are thinking about right now? Does anyone care? Would you share if someone would listen? Do you have at least one person you dialogue with on more than just a surface level: how are you today? how about the Longhorns? Did you see American Idol? What's up with all this rain?

I sure hope so.....ironically enough i find this topic of community interesting! According to a recent Gallup poll - "Americans are among the most lonely people in the world"...how could that be with all of our stuff and access to people? Yet, most of us come home and hide within the four walls of our dwelling place and turn on the tube and get lost for hours on end. Or better yet we text, im, and email our closest friends w/o ever seeing them face to face.

Without a doubt we were created for community, Matthew 22 and Genesis 2 affirm this. I wonder, are you truly living in community? Does someone know your story (your parents or your bride don't count....they have to know it!) Better yet - do you know someone else's story, their hurts, dreams, fears, successes?

What keeps you from living in community with others? Do you think living in community reflects the image of God? Who are you intentionally getting to know?

I Need Your Advice!!

So I have talked to hundreds of people in recent weeks about the start of this new church.....and for the most part, find that people are open to the idea - even if they don't believe what i believe....only a few have been rude about it.

I need your help!!! So what advice would you give me as we start a new church in North Austin? I am a pastor....here's your chance to tell me what you think!! Why do people stay away from church? What factors would cause you to investigate church....the principles of the Bible, Jesus? What turns you off about church? How would you reach out to those who are not Christ followers or church goers? I look forward to reading your post.