couch surfing

I have a heart for the road. Something deep within me longs, yearns to travel and explore the unknown. Along with this passion to see what is around the corner and past the horizon, I also have the uncanny knack of meeting random people and getting caught up in amazing conversation, even if it's only for the night. Talking with some friends the other night at our local coffee house I was turned on to couch surfing. It's a site where people from all over the world offer up their couch to visitors for a night or so. I was completely thrilled with the idea. Finally a way to travel and to met people in one exciting venue.

This too has been something that I have been dreaming about for the church. What ever happened to the discipline of hospitality that we read about in letters such as 3 John? What an amazing way to meet and grow the church! Think about it, there are many that travel while doing church work. Whether it's to do mission work, or to speak, to check out schools, or to just travel we have followers of the WAY moving around doing the work of God in powerful ways. How amazing would it be if people opened up their homes and lives to these sojourners. Think of the possibilities.

I am glad to see people putting this idea into practice. I can't wait to participate in something so rich and beautiful. However, it saddens me that this idea, like so many others was not birthed in the church. We worship a God that is a highly imaginative and truly original artist. Those of us that dare follow in his steps should likewise be overflowing with unique and colorful ways to advance love and community in this world. In the very least we need to acknowledge and participate in the creative genius of those that do create ideas like couch surfing.

Here's to a great summer of surfing couches.