When I tell my students not to listen to their parents

As a college pastor, there are a few very common conversations I have always had with several students like it was the first time. One of those conversations walks students through following God's intent for their lives to the chagrin and often in the face of their parents' intent for them.

Acts 21:10-14 shows Paul being clear of God's intent for his life in the face of people who love him. They are people who deeply care for Paul, and he knows that is the reason it breaks his heart so much when he sees their advice and strong intent going against what he KNOWS God has told him to do.

This stress of the tension between disappointing those who care for you in order to follow God's intent for you is one I hear all the time.

There has to be a challenge here for all of us to answer God's call while realizing it is not what our loved ones will aways want for us.

NBC's Community Speaks of Religion

"While claiming to have no religion, you were actually devoutly worshiping yourself, and now that your god has high cholesterol, your want to kick Pierce's god in the balls." -Professor Ian Duncan on NBC's Community

What is with a few of my favorite television shows taking on the conversation and thoughts of religion and faith? Whether it be Glee's "Cheesus" episode or Community's religion episode a couple weeks ago, religion seems to be on the mind. Whether you agree with the portrayals of Christianity and general religion (you likely don't and probably shouldn't), it is important to pay attention. There perspectives portrayed are very similar if not exact reflections of common perceptions held in our culture.

Though you may not agree with the perceptions portrayed, take heart that the discussion is right in front of us. Take heart that our culture's interest is at least piqued.

How can this spark opportunity in your day to day for conversation?

*I have been LOVING the quote above, and it is my thought that Community is one of the most underrated comedies on television right now.