Drinking the kool-aid

I’m a typical Gen Xer.  I want to beleive that I’m unique.  I accuse my favorite band/singer of “selling out” when my favorite band becomes EVERYONE else’s  favorite too.  I don’t want to be just one of the crowd. 

Right.

A few years ago I was introduced to Brian McLaren.  We read one of his first books (sorry, I don’t remember the title) for an evangelism class.  I liked some of what he said but was frustrated by how conservative he was.  Then he came to Saint Paul to give a few lectures.  I was intrigued by his popularity and wondered about how he seemed to meld what he said to one group into something slightly more palatable to a different group.  I questioned his authenticity.  In a very small group setting it was difficult to deny his likability, he defiantely has “charisma” a  certain energy that is highly appealing.  A friend suggested that I read one of his newer books and I’d see that he’d changed some of his eariler stances.  I didn’t.

Last year in preaching I thought it was interesting when our prof was suggesting other preachers for us to check out based on our individual styles.  He suggested that I check out Brian McClaren.  I didn’t. 

I’m not sure what it was that finally got me to read another of his books.  Last week I began reading his book, The Secret Message of Jesus.  I feel as if I’m now “drinking the kool-aid” as a friend of mine would say.  I LOVE this book!  It feels like he got into my head and is able to put my thoughts and feelings into words.

So what do I do now that I’m drinking the kool-aid?  I guess suggest it to you.  I loathe feeling like a groupie but it’s a great book and totally affirming.  I guess it’s hard to dislike someone who is saying things that you’ve been trying to get out, it’s hard to dislike someone who thinks a lot like you.

So check out the Brian D. McClaren kool-aid–it’s good stuff!

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