This is the name of my new church. Last week was my first visit. I went because the son of my old friend Lee Kent, said that he goes to it and really loves this church. Frankly I've known Cory since he was 2. I am surprised he grew up to be a Christian. But then he is probably surprised to find me one too. I wanted to reconnect with him when I heard that his Mom died. This seems the perfect place.

So today I showed up a few minutes late to avoid the before church mingling. The music people were playing. Rather slow and kinda....well...slow. The thought that came to me was that I wasn't there for the music. I miss my old churchs music but not the nasty meanies that came with it. So I'm putting aside my negative thoughts about the new church and it's music.

I settled into my seat near the back, wishing I had brought my own Bible with me. (Doggone it, where is that thing?) There were a few announcements and then the ladies that had attended the retreat last weekend came up to talk about their experiences. Was I surprised and delighted to find out that my favorite homeless lady Mary goes to this church. I love Mary! Then the pastor started his sermon. Wouldn't you know it. It was about forsaking all. FORSAKING ALL!!! Oh good God! Not again! So I wrote myself a note to ask the pastor after church what exactly did he mean. He talked about the usual verses and Bible stuff about it and about the money issue, but what the hell. I have forsaken all. ALL. Like most of you had/have. I wanted to get this guy take on the thing.

So after church I stopped the pastor. I told him this, "Once I forsook all for God. It didn't turn out very good. I learned a lot but it wasn't very good, this experience. What exactly do you mean, Give up everything for God? What does that look like to you?" He looked surprised but didn't hesitate to answer. He said it didn't necessarily mean money or items, but whatever the thing is in your life that you would be unwilling to give up for God. Like a few of the homeless people are unwilling to give up their drugs, or alcohol or whatever. It varies for each person.

So far I like this church but I am going to take it slow. I've been burned pretty bad by religious people. I am thankful that this last time didn't make me run away from God again. I'll let you know how it goes.