Tim has raised many questions which I certainly don't have the answers to. What is really encouraging about his post is that he realizes that perhaps a change in how we view ministry is needed, rather than just dealing with a certain component. Both the post and the ensuing conversation is well worth your time. My thoughts:
We live in a cultural context that is highly consumeristic and for which we have a distaste but from which we cannot separate ourselves. Couple that with our task as missionaries (I see myself as a missionary within our culture, perhaps because I live in Utah where a very small percentage of people attend a Christian church--however, I think this applies to all of the United States), which is to make disciples, baptize, and teach (Matthew 28:16-20). Suddenly, we are faced with ministering to a culture that we know has sinful elements (such as self-centered consumerism) but that we want to faithfully reach with the Gospel. This is no small task, and I am thankful that folks like Tim are taking a step back, picking the issue apart, and wondering aloud how to be faithful in our calling.
I wish I had answers. It's tough to minister each day knowing that if I would just jump in with both feet, the risk would be worth it, only to stay another week, another month, another year with what I know, because it's safe.
