Working with small groups in the church I have come to realize how seldom we reflect adequately on our lives with the intention of spiritual growth. For many the Christian gathering is about the accumulation of biblical data that is used either as a means to impress the neophyte or control the discussion. The traditional bible study has become just that, a study, not of the soul but of biblical trivia that brings on a yawn. The art of the small group leader is to help others find the intersect between the gospel light and the dark recessed fears of our human experience. Helping the good news wind pop open the contorted vacuum-sealed parts of the soul.
“… just living life is not enough. We must know what we are living. A life that is not reflected upon isn’t worth living. It belongs to the essence of being human that we contemplate our life, think about it, discuss it, evaluate it, and form opinions about it. Half of living is reflecting on what is being lived. Is it worth it? Is it good? Is it bad? Is it old? Is it new? What is it all about? … Reflection is essential for growth, development, and change. It is the unique power of the human being.” Henri Nouwen,"Can you drink the cup?"
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