This week I was blessed in a way that was new to me.  I was welcomed into the presence of fellow pastors from various denominational backgrounds who are serving Christ in Kirkland.  We came together through a ministry that is emerging here on the Eastside called Linking Shields.  It was a blessing in so many ways – one of which stands out in my mind is the camaraderie.  It was good to be with a small band of brothers.

I have to be honest, this has not been a snap for me.  Meaning, I have felt the pull not to associate so deeply with guys who have some differing theological positions (however peripheral they may be).  We agree on the essentials – the deity of Christ, the sufficiency and authority of Scripture and salvation by grace received only through faith.  But there is stretching that takes place when you’re out of your comfort zone.  Its a good stretching though.  I have learned a lot about myself and my Lord as I have leaned on Him as I have taken steps to move out and grow.  I believe this to be the right thing to do – these are my brothers.  The old jokes about which denomination will have a corner on the market in heaven has ramifications.  There are the traditional hang ups and baggage that must be examined and discarded in many cases in order to truly embrace Biblical living.  All of this takes time and is not without it’s angst.

I have been emphasing in my recent preaching that we’re (Christians) at war (1 Peter 2: 11) and in a battle between sin and our very souls.  It was a R&R type of thing to come together and pray for one another – getting to know where we all have come from and what is the desire of our hearts – Jesus and His growing Kingdom in Kirkland and beyond.

It was a good reminder that we are not lone soldiers in this battle, we’re in this together.  I am fond of reminding people – we need to care for one another.  It was nice to be cared for and in the presence of men who are caring for their flocks and striving to build the kingdom of God against most all odds.

Don’t go it alone.  If you’re reading this and feel isolated and cut off – reach out to me.  I understand when someone says to me that they’re a recovering __fill in the denomination___.   Don’t get me wrong and over react, there is nothing wrong with being a Baptist, Nazarene or whatever – there is history and rich heritage there; however, let’s not make the mistake of pretending that one denomination is superior to another.  I am here.