Key Bible Verse: "If racing against mere men makes you tired, how will you race against horses?" (Jeremiah 12:5). Bonus Reading: Hebrews 12:12-13

My day ended at a restaurant in a converted warehouse with Dana Walker and Kerry Reid, in from D.C. for a conference they'd initiated. "Why is doing good so hard?" these leaders of President Bush's faith-based initiative asked as we dipped sourdough bread chunks into a saucer of garlic and olive oil.

These dynamic, visionary leaders, elevated to positions of responsibility at a high level of government, confessed their weariness in doing their best to accomplish a kingdom mission, only to have their efforts challenged, undermined, ignored, and devalued by both government and church.

The President, committed to the church's re-engagement as a service provider, had inspired them both to join him in this mission. But his handlers, they soon discovered, had other priorities, diverting his attention from the faith-based agenda. Career bureaucrats proved resistant to new ideas that disrupt their familiar routines. And the church is suspicious of government involvement, afraid of "strings," fearful of trading away its message for the seduction of easy money."We're not sure now that this is where we should be." Consternation and doubt were etched on their faces. [continued 12/7]

—Robert Lupton in Renewing the City

My Response: How do political, psychological, or spiritual opposition factor into my understanding of God's guidance?

Thought to Apply: Our extremity is God's opportunity.—Rees Howells (Welsh miner turned Bible school founder)

Adapted from Renewing the City (InterVarsity, 2005) by permission.

Prayer for the Week

Lord, You've placed me in a challenging spot. Give me the faith, courage, and strength to stand tall there.

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