What if we could reignite the spirit of the Jesus Movement within us all? In a world marked by complexity and political divisions, we would reconnect with the roots of grace, love, and welcome. We would focus not on the cultural issues that have overshadowed the gospel message but on the transformational power of grace turned outward to those around us.
“I’m younger than that now.”
This is a theme we’ve chosen inspired by Bob Dylan’s song, “My Back Pages.” Just as we experienced a profound transformation during the Jesus Movement, we believe it’s time for another transformation. As we look back over the past five decades, we find ourselves quite different now. Perhaps we have become too entrenched in our views, too quick to judge, too focused on the culture wars, and too overly serious.
But just as the song lyrics suggest, this is an invitation to embrace a newfound perspective of thought, to challenge our beliefs, and to discover a world of possibilities and nuances only available when we are “younger than that now.” We’re moving away from pre-established teachings, inviting the spirit of renewal to rekindle our enthusiasm. There is freedom in embracing this new view of the world, and in having a little fun instead of being so overly serious and sometimes even judgmental.
It’s time to question and reevaluate our beliefs and methods, and seek to create new ones that align with our growth as individuals and as a community. This process represents a journey that celebrates being “younger than that now,” toward a more energetic, freeing identity. We believe we can reignite the spirit of the Jesus Movement and make a lasting impact on countless lives.
Will you explore this journey with us over the next two weeks? We are full of gratitude and anticipation for you all.
Click here to enjoy a version of Dylan’s song recorded live at Dylan’s 30th Anniversary Concert Celebration at Madison Square Garden on October 16, 1992. Roger McGuinn, Tom Petty, Neil Young, Eric Clapton, and George Harrison all join Bob Dylan for this lively rendition.
John Fischer The Catch 
Thanks for the theme. I’ve always loved the phrase. Not that I know what it means, but that it turns the words around. That is a great thinking trick. Turn things over. What I get out of it concerns my own thinking. Sometimes I accept ideas or situations like an old person as fixed and impenetrable. Then comes the child’s eyes where we see things in a new way. Almost as magic, with surprise and delight. Sometimes we need to be younger now.
Yes. I think you’ve got it! It will be fun to explore this more deeply in the next few weeks. Thanks for your comments, Gary.
Love this: “There is freedom in embracing this new view of the world, and in having a little fun instead of being so overly serious and sometimes even judgmental.”