It's been a while...

The waders are dry.

The boots are stiff.

I'm not sure I would be able to make that tricky mend at just the right moment.

I hate to think I'm rusty...no, it's not that, but much like my rods in the basement, I've been hung up for a while.

It's probably a good thing that I haven't been focusing on the stream. Life has been full. School, LiFE, Camp Ojibway, new baby coming in February...yikes!!

Those things have been occupying my time, but the thing that has been occupying my heart/mind...compassion.

Or should I say...my lack there of.

My harsh realization this week is that I have pulled to the side of the road of life and watched opportunities to grow pass me by. And after the fact wondering why I haven't taken advantage of those opportunities to show compassion. The end of the spectrum I have chosen involves me assuming God will do all the work, and I just need to let Him. Bad idea!

Phil 2:12-13

God does not call us to be passive. We need to come along side God in the work he is doing in our lives. Active persuit of him out of obedient awe and respect is essential for seeing change and growth in my life.

I also realized that I have been filling myself with good truth, time in the word, sermons on CD, you name it, but I have not let it sink in. Spiritual Bolemia as Shane Claiborne describes it, when we take it all in but then spew it out on others with letting it nurish ourselves first.

Gross, I know...I need to take the initiative, persue God, let Him sink in and nurish me.

As far as fishing goes...I hope to make it out in late Dec/early Jan. I'll be sure to let you know how it goes...

Until then...