Live From Los Angelas

I'm here on a morning break during the Origins Conference hosted by Mosaic Church.  This conference is really about being exposed to the vision and mission of this particular church.  And it's quite a church. 

 

Basically a typically sized Southern Baptist community church that was active in missions through this 1990s, The Church on Brady transitioned in the late 90s into this powerhouse ministry that is reaching thousands of young, single, urban seekers with the message that God loves you and God wants to unleash you on the adventure of a lifetime.

 

This conference is built around exploring the 5 core values of Mosaic, but the highlight is getting to listen to lead pastor Erwin McManus speak throughout the day.  Erwin is really, really good.  He's passionate, articulate, driven, humble, and full of energy.  But it's an energy that invites you in rather than overwhelms you.  You want to believe his vision and feel like that to be a part of this movement, you would find some of your sense of calling.

 

That's not to say that Mosaic and Erwin shouldn't have legitimate critiques: do they foster a growing sense of discipleship and love of God in those they reach?  Is the life of prayer emphasized sufficiently?  Where is the call to justice and mercy beyond evangelism?  These are just some of the questions that should be answered.  But if they are erring, it's refreshing to see a church erring on the side of engagement with the culture, adventure, revelence, and passionate evangelism.  They really believe they are on mission to save the world and everything else is driven by and organized by that vision.

 

What works in LA will not work in most places in America, including Charlottesville.  LA's just a different kind of place.  (That's an understatement!)  But Cville is such a neat place with so much culture, talent, and interesting people who are also seeking Christ in their own way . . .we have a lot to learn, but Broadus has the heart and the mission to be a part of God's work in our part of the world.  I can't wait to continue to see what God does in us and among us, and, perhaps most importantly, through us in the world.

 

If Mosaic is any indication, it's quite an adventure.  

 

I'd love to hear of churches whose ministry you find fascinating.  If I know anything about your favorite, I'll respond with anything I know about it.