I had heard of narrative theology before this summer. However, I became acquainted with narrative theology during a missional strategies course I took. It was here that I began to understand that life (the story we are in) does not just have meaning; it has purpose. And it was here that I began to understand what Victor Frankel spent years trying to convince despondent prisoners of; that it does not matter what we expect from life, but rather what life expects from us.
I think Israel divided shortly after Solomon's death for many reasons. However, all those reasons can probably be deduced to one; the Hebrews did not understand what Frankel did. They were chosen for responsibility, not privilege.
It is sadly common that marriages tend to struggle when the nest becomes empty. I am sure there are a thousand reasons this is the case. However, I have come across at least one that Lesley Ann and I are determined not to fall victim to. The story of our life together is not going to be our children. That may sound harsh but I believe it has the potential to make all the difference. God-willing, Howell (and hopefully others) will not glean from his parents that he is the center of the universe.
Does the story that I am writing with my life reflect the Grand Narrative? Is my family's story one that will invite Howell in as well as encourage him to write a great story of his own? And in the end, is what we are writing jiving with God's Mission? I sure hope so because I know God is still at work.
