Barbarians

I've just finished reading a book by Erwin McMannus, called "The Barbarian Way". This is the second book of his that I have read. His thesis is that followers of Christ are to be revolutionaries, people who shake things up and turn things around. He calls them barbarians. John the Baptist was one of those and so was Jesus, according to McMannus. These are people who are not satisfied with the status quo and are willing to do whatever it takes to shake things up and make a difference. I have increasing seen a movement in young adult Christians that might be considered barbarian. Its not that these people want to start trouble, they are just not satisfied. They are willing to sacrifice, do some unusual things and are not worried about what others might think. Some of them are making missions trips, starting new churches, or at least helping to start them. They are not so concerned about success in the world, but are more concerned about advancing God's kingdom than advancing themselves. There are young pastors across America who want to make a difference. They don't just want to be "cool", they want to be effective. It almost makes me feel as if I want to be 30 again. Well, not really!

This has all caused me to think about my own life. Am I to satisfied, stuck with the status quo or am I willing to be a barbarian. One who will break free of the mold and be willing to be whatever God wants me to be. Every one of the great people in the Bible (See Hebrews chapter 11) were barbarians. They walked to the beat of a different drummer. Some did incredible, sometimes ludicrous things. Others made great sacrifices and suffered tremendously all because they were taking their cues from someone higher. Jesus led these people all the way. If these were barbarians then, I want to be one. How about You?