Introduction

  "The space between
What's wrong and right
Is where you'll find me hiding
Waiting for you."

The name of my blog comes (aptly enough) from the song "the Space Between" by Dave Matthews Band. It is a song about two people trying to exist in the midst of a wild, crazy world that is "spinning out in the madness of a rollercoaster." They struggle to find time for each other, and in their worn down state they long for a "Space Between,"  where they can escape the hectic pace of life. This space is a serene place of respite, like a quiet, lush park in the middle of a big city. It is a place of peace; a place of sanctuary; a place where people can love and be loved for who they really are.  

I believe "the Space Between" is a real element that differs for everyone. For some it is a favorite location; a place of fond memories or special significance like a favorite coffee shop or friends house.  For others, it is a spot that is totally foreign, perhaps an exotic vacation destination far outside the repetitive boundaries of normal life. Whatever the case, people are drawn to these islands of tranquility where they can be themselves and experience fulfillment. However, in my opinion, there is only one place that benefits of the"Space Between" can be fully realized. . . 

the Church.

Now I am not talking about great, gothic stone buildings. Or necessarily the congregations of people that inhabit these buildings. No, I am talking about the Ecclesia, or the original Greek word used in the New Testament to correspond to the church. It denotes how people who are "called out" from others and who's organization emerges from acts of faith-filled ministry.  Their primary act is to "love one another as God loves us" (John 13:34). So wherever this love is truly manifest, one can find a "Space Between." This love is a very powerful force that seeks to fully unite us with God and neighbor   It can block out all other things, making the community in which it is found a redoubt against the other forces of the world.  Unfortunatley, this sacred space is always under siege by the torrents of life. So believers are always seeking ways to live more fully into the church and its minstry while also inviting others to experience it along the way. We long to spread its joy to the world, so that all may discover the rich meaning, salvation and purpose of our life's journey.

I hope the words of this blog will help guide you to find your own path to this ultimate "Space Between" wherever it may be. And may your connection with us in our "Space" encourage us all to make its inherent peace, grace and Divine Love of God in Jesus Christ a greater part of our reality.

It will be quite a trek, so let's go forth and experience it together. Shall we?

-Bryson