pumpkin maneuvers

I have really been enjoying actually living in Chicago for the weekends... these past two weekends. Hanging out with friends, having adventures, finding new places, playing Ultimate at last, carving pumpkins, listening to music... just a few of the blessings. I also got to go to church again this morning and it was really good; my childhood friend Melissa came to town with her boyfriend and we all hung out this afternoon - more adventures, including but not limited to public transportation mishaps.

I've also been reading In The Shadow Of The Almighty, an account of Jim Elliot's life, much of which is taken from his journal. It's challenging and renewing of my faith. Here are some excerpts:

Of course I can't do all I would like by way of service for the glorious Servant who offers me the yoke-sharing next to Himself in this 'field' He has purchased, but I do certainly rejoice at the abiding source of power found through the supply of the Spirit.

[An encouragement to seek] Just a few moments spent before the Shepherd, listening to the silence of His love and telling Him the state of your soul even it it's not warm toward Him, just to keep short accounts by simple confession...

I am more convinced than ever that God deals with individuals as they individually respond to His Word, regardless of their church association. So that I am beginning to think that the thing to be stressed is not the form of assembly worship, but eager searching and obedience to the Scriptures.