Dia•log: an informal, constructive exchange of ideas, perspectives and convictions
At the March 2008 CBFV General Assembly, I listened attentively as Mike Harton, Interim Dean of the Faculty at BTSR, talked about the difference between a discussion and a dialog.
In a discussion, we generally attempt to convince someone of the rightness of our point of view as opposed to theirs. The goal is to bring them around to our way of thinking, get them on board for our agenda.
Conversely, in a genuine dialog the participants spend more time listening than talking, more time attempting to see from the perspective of others than presenting their own point of view. The goal in dialog is not to convince but to truly communicate. Dialog is a vitally necessary component in discerning God's leadership - dialog with God, dialog within the community of faith, dialog with the larger community around us.
On Sunday, May 18, we will meet at the CCC office location (the gray farmhouse)at 9:30am for our regular celebration service. Following that time of worship, we will share in our first intentional Dialog.
This will be a very special day in the life of CCC. We will seek to engage in a rich conversation, an authentic exchange of what we think and feel - our dreams and concerns, hopes and fears, expectations, convictions, and perceptions. This dialog will be a reflection of our values and beliefs, our understanding of who we are and what God is calling us to become. Dialog is from the heart to the heart. It goes far beyond a sharing of knowledge or understanding. Dialog calls us to manifest the love of Christ in order to discern the leadership of the Holy Spirit.
Following this time of dreaming and discernment, we'll spend some time in fellowship, enjoying a cookout with grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, and other springtime favorites.
We especially invite you to celebrate the presence and call of God with us. Join the conversation! Share in the journey! God is blessing us with wonderfully challenging and exciting opportunities!
