“Inspiring Generous Faith. I want to share with you why I’ve chosen these particular words for the role of the chaplaincy…
I use the word “inspiring” because too often religious leaders have coerced, pushed, prescribed and dictated what faith should be. My hope is that the chaplaincy will be a place that inspires through thoughtful gestures and tender friendships, that meets [people] where they are, walks beside them to where they are going, and helps guide them on a journey of reflection and discovery.
I use the word “generous” because too often people of faith are not generous, but are rather judgmental, mean-spirited, and moralistic instead of kind, compassionate, and inviting. My hope is that the chaplaincy will be a place that models a generous faith, one that welcomes and includes, invites and shares, and seeks the experience and wisdom present in all spheres of our common life.
And I use the word “faith” because the role of the chaplaincy is not merely to affirm common goodwill, or uphold socially acceptable values, or lend its voice to ethical reflection — though all may be a part of the role. The chaplaincy is here to inspire faith…”
Craig T. Kocher in Faith & Leadership blogpost 9 November 2009.
I am sending today’s meditation from White Sulphur Springs, the Officer’s Christian Fellowship Eastern Conference Center, in Central Pennsylvania. I am the weekend retreat speaker for a group of Air Force chaplains and leaders. My prayer is to bless and inspire generous faith in them.
In seven teaching and discussion sessions I am excited that this group of military leaders asked me to lead them through my recent book, The Choice: The Christ-Centered Pursuit of Kingdom Outcomes. I’d appreciate your prayers for a Spirit-filled weekend that stirs a great awakening in many hearts.