alharp

I enjoyed reading this and it inspired some thoughts too.  I hunted with dogs down south in the 1960s and 70s.  We hunted quail, rabbits and deer.  There are only about 5 states that allow deer hunting with dogs and until recently, thanks to I-phones and Go Pros, one had to be there in person to understand how exciting it is to anticipate game being chased past your stand or the temporary hunting spot you’ve established.  The “music” that a pack of dogs makes when in full pursuit is unforgettable.  I never considered that I might be “treed” until I read this.  I’m now doing some soul searching about what I might be fleeing in my life. Thanks, John, for this new perspective on what were some of the most memorable outdoors experiences I ever had.
Al Harper

Thanks for sharing a great story and an analogy with which I can certainly identify.  I seem to venture out on “slippery slopes” about every other month and I’ve noticed it happens more often when I’m going it alone like you were on that mountain.
Al Harper

Very interesting. Heard a sermon this morning on a similar theme.  Bottom line: very hard doing a faith journey by yourself.  Another part of the message was “when you think you are helping someone else, you often end up helping yourself more.”
Al Harper

Thanks for more words of wisdom, John.  I really enjoyed studying “Beautiful Outlaw” and hearing other mens’ opinions about the book too.   You are to be commended for completing the final night of the study after a serious health scare.  We’re elated about your recovery and thankful for your spiritual leadership.
Al Harper

I was enjoying a few minutes of quiet time this Sunday morning before going to church and really enjoyed your thoughts and comments.  The quotations are particularly inspiring because sometimes it can be hard to maintain enthusiasm and get motivated to do things that end up being very satisfying.  I hope your comments helps some of us “start our engines” and inspires us to go out and grab life’s experiences as long as we can.
Thanks, and God bless ya.
Al Harper

I read with interest the thoughts of Kenny and John.  If I were honest I’d probably have to admit I vacillate between trying to be a “nice guy” and being a bold warrior for Christianity as I understand it.  A couple of authors I’m reading lately explain that:

1) “… we are intensely attached to being perceived in a positive light, even by people we don’t know and will never meet … and even by people we don’t like.” *
2) “Christianity not only makes us aspire to be better, but it also shows us how to be better.” **

I’m thankful for resources like the books from which these quotes were taken and the comments of people who are seeking answers through the Bible and God’s word.  They help me push away the anxiety, hopelessness and frustration that sometimes starts to build up due to lies that are so prevalent in our culture today.  I also try to find opportunities to persuade or uplift others.  Another thing that helps is getting out in nature and trying to catch a fish.
Al Harper

* <i>The Biggest Lie in the History of Christianity</i> by Matthew Kelly

** <i>What’s So Great About Christianity</i> by Dinesh D’Souza

I think your question: “why men shy away from sharing their faith” is an important one.

One possible factor involved might be that some are grappling with just what constitutes their faith.  They (I’ll say “we”) might be considered what are sometimes called “seekers”.  Despite lifelong participation in organized religion — and active thought, contemplation, and reading — our spiritual beliefs lack the clarity that more confident or experienced Christians enjoy.

I, for one, appreciate the chance to associate with men who have a more mature or well developed set of spiritual beliefs and have benefitted greatly from authors like Rick Warren as you mentioned and a couple of encounters with Legacy Builders events as well.  Also, I feel time of life is perhaps part of the equation, although that might also fall in the category of “Spiritual laziness, too busy to share my faith” as you offered in your list.  I’m so thankful for the luxury of a little extra time on my hands to try to solidify and understand my relationship with Christ (and pursue a passion like fishing as well).  Hopefully, if God is willing, more substantive conversations on these topics will happen more often.

Al Harper