On the Verge…For the Gospel, For the City and For the Nations

The last couple of days, Louis and I have been in Houston, Texas enjoying a lovely visit with my sister and her family.  Tomorrow, we leave for Austin, where we will remain until Saturday.  Austin, you say?  Yes…Austin.  We are attending the Verge 2012 Conference.

2 years ago, Louis and I stumbled upon the Verge Conference on their first year.  Although I was soon to be unemployed, we found the resources to attend….and I am so glad that we did!  Last year The Verge Network joined with Exponential – the largest church planting conference ever – and this year we are back in Austin.  I am thankful for some generous people who have given to us – providing us the opportunity to attend, allowing us to be better prepared (and encouraged) for the work we do each and every day in Southern Barton Heights, in Richmond, VA. I love the ‘church’ – flaws and all.  Admittedly, I love the people more than I do the actual building and institution. But, I sometimes feel like a fish out of water in a typical Sunday morning worship church.  I often leave thinking…is this it?

2 years ago, while attending Verge 2010, I got it.  I had found my people group, my tribe.  People who strive to live out God’s mission EVERY day…at work, at home, at the PTA, gym, soccer field, and coffee shop,  and every where else their everyday, walk-around, work-going, weekend-loving lives take them….not just on Sunday mornings, Wednesday nights, and on missions trips.  Every day is viewed as a missions trip.

I wish you…every one of you…could attend.  Although it is sold out and located in Austin, you do have an opp to attend the Main Sessions on Wednesday and Thursday, at least, through a simulcast.  Check it out and sign up here.  You will hear from folks like Dr. John Perkins, Bob Lupton, Alan Hirsch, Neil Cole, Dave Ferguson, Mike Breen, Jen Hatmaker, David Platt and Matt Carter.  Let me know if you do!  Would love to hear your thoughts and comments.