The Formula of God

Donald Miller, in his book "Searching for God Knows What" writes

"Some would say formulas are how we interact with God, that going through motions and jumping through hoops are how a person acts out his spirituality. This method of interaction, however, seems odd to me, because if I want to hang out with my friend Tuck, I don't stomp my foot three times, turn around, and say his name over and over like a mantra, lighting candles and getting myself in a certain mood. I just call him. In this way, formulas presuppose God is more a computer or a circus monkey than an intelligent Being. I realize that sounds harsh, but it is true."

I wonder sometimes if we are guilty of putting God in a box. John 4:19-24 recalls a conversation where the woman at the well asks about where she's supposed to go to worship. She's prompty told that location is the least of His worries.

In our journey to understand the Spirituality of 20-somethings, I think we must make sure we're not attaching anything to the message. Making it palpable to this generation requires that we not hold on to traditions just for our own comfort.

Maybe, just maybe, if we lose the formulas and strip it down to its essense, young people today could see a God who Is, and who Loves.

The Case for X Continues

We've returned from filming in NYC and Nashville!

The documentary is nearing the completion of the production phase, having filmed in L.A., NYC, and Nashville. We were able to interview pastors such as Erwin McManus and Jon Tyson. We interviewed educators from Biola and Fuller Theological Seminary. And we interviewed artists and authors like Derek Webb and Matthew Paul Turner. We are learning as much as we hoped to impart education to viewers.

We have interviews countless 20-somethings on the streets to see what their true perception of God, church, and Spirituality is. We have been amazed at their responses.

So keep on the look out for the documentary!

What is 'spirituality'?

Interesting idea you have - creating a documentary about spirituality.
Just wondering how you define that?
A lot of people seem to use that word, as opposed to something 'religious,' but I don't know what they mean. Is the concept of spirituality so broad that it encompasses an anything-and-everything approach to the metaphysical? Is it a secret code for some people within which they can hide their true orientations?
Just wondering what you're finding among people you've interviewed.
norm

We’re on a Journey

Current Pictures is in the midst of filming a feature-length documentary called
“The Case for X: The Spirituality of 20-somethings”.

We’ve been filming all over the U.S. as well as in select cities in Europe with the hopes of finding out what drives this emerging generation, and how spirituality plays a role in their lives. We’re also looking at the church to see what effect, if any, it is having on the lives of young people.

We'll be sharing many of our insights as this project progresses. We also look forward to your comments and shared experiences. Join the conversation.