Comments on: Good things

By: Lyn

Lyn — Sat, 06 May 2006 18:03:40 +0000

Yes, indeed, thanks for the reply! And I do think I understand where Rick was coming from.

By: Amy Scott

Amy Scott — Sat, 06 May 2006 15:57:41 +0000

Miriam, Thanks for the good link.

Lyn asked,

Do we seek a likemindedness that is too perfect?

A lot of times, I think we alienate ourselves from each other by seeking things in common and attach a spiritual measurement to a neutral thing. That said–

Is it even remotely possible to have a group of believers that truly mimic the church described in Acts? What do you think?

Rick Saenz made the point somewhere (don’t even know where to begin looking for the link) that it might be easier to build community among people who live the same as opposed to people who believe the same. My initial reaction was that if you believe the same, won’t you live in such a way that you value the same things?

In Cruncy Cons, Dreher makes the observation that he has more in common with people outside his Catholic faith than he does with the people in his congregation. He notes that the degree in which a person takes his faith seriously determined the degree to which they were able to hold things in common, if you will.

It’s an interesting observation and worth some thought, I think.

By: Miriam

Miriam — Fri, 05 May 2006 03:03:12 +0000

Amy, I guess now it’s my turn to join the chorus of voices and say that I’ve been reading and enjoying your blog for some time. ;o) Your musing so often provide encouragement and inspiration for my journey (and that of my family).

Just wanted to share a link - one of my pastors has recently been blogging on various aspects of consumerism in the church and society. I thought perhaps you’d jive with his perspective.

Blessings be on your head, Amy.

By: Lyn

Lyn — Wed, 03 May 2006 21:05:54 +0000

Back to the whole community thing with values much more important than how much stuff I can accumulate before I die, I fear I am becoming somewhat cynical. I am, of course, an avid reader of puritan, amish, well, that sort of thing.

I have heard of people looking to build ‘planned communities’ in which each family would have several acres and share some things in ‘common.’ I guess recent experiences have left me somewhat jaded and I wonder if we have not all just lost the ability to love one another that much. Do we seek a likemindedness that is too perfect? Is it even remotely possible to have a group of believers that truly mimic the church described in Acts? What do you think?

By: Amy Scott

Amy Scott — Wed, 03 May 2006 20:18:30 +0000

What is your favorite book for parenting? (not the Bible)

I don’t have one, but if I did, I think I’d plead the fifth.

By: Amy’s Humble Musings » One example

Amy’s Humble Musings » One example — Wed, 03 May 2006 20:05:49 +0000

[...] In the comments on the post below, I was asked to clarify what I meant by matching children with their gifts. I said, If you give children responsibility for their own little enterprise (as opposed to just using them as free labor and expecting them to be jolly about it), they will develop an appetite for worthwhile projects. We look for ways to match each child’s giftedness with their own domain. As the children get older, I look forward to turning over things to their supervision and expertise. [...]

By: Spunky

Spunky — Wed, 03 May 2006 19:17:32 +0000

I whole heartedly agree. I saw that quote in Cruncy Con and thought the same thing. Community (beginning within our own home) helped me realize that life doesn’t revolve around me.

I agree with the idea of work being a source of entertainment and developing that in our children. I have seen the fruits of that in my six children. They are now old enough to pursue their interests with joy. And it has paid dividends for all of us.

I’ll tell you though it is bitter sweet. I enjoy them now, but boy there are times I wish they were little for just a little longer.

By: Nicole

Nicole — Wed, 03 May 2006 17:01:15 +0000

I have a 3 year old and a 2 week old and I am interested your comment on matching thier giftings. Obviously my 2 week old will be taking shape for some time before we can establish her talents and gifts. However, I need some guidance in this area for my 3 yr old.

As far as the consumerism goes around here, my husband and I need to tackle it ourselves in order to teach our children well. Prayers are coveted in this area!!!

By: Mrs. DMG

Mrs. DMG — Wed, 03 May 2006 16:57:03 +0000

Thank you for a great post Amy. You have blessed me yet again.

Mrs. DMG

By: Ruth

Ruth — Wed, 03 May 2006 16:34:24 +0000

AHHHHH - MEN sister amy.