Caring So Much That It Hurts
The last few weeks have been dedicated to producing all of our marketing material for Bloom. We have been busy discussing tag lines and website copy. We’ve designed our logo, mini-business cards, t-shirts and website. There have been both fun moments and there have been very difficult moments. At times I could be running around the room because I was so excited about what we accomplished, but there were other moments when the tension of a decision would produce frustration and tears.
This week we had some of our launch team members over to talk and pray. One asked my wife and I why the process has been so difficult. I teared up as we tried to describe how much pressure there is in producing something on paper that represents a dream so precious and big in your heart. You see, to us there is so much at stake in every detail. We realize the magnitude of the task that we are trying to accomplish. I see the faces of people who have been shunned and not felt comfortable in church, along with the faces of those who are hurting who need help and a loving embrace. With every word we write and every image that we produce, I can not help but overanalyze every aspect of each, wondering if we have expressed the vision correctly. “Will this sentence offend anyone? Does this image represent our love and acceptance? Are we reaching our target market? Will people feel compelled enough to want to visit?” These are questions that constantly run through our minds. My friend Manny is happy that it has been hard. He says that the pain and struggle will help make it beautiful because it will come from the depths of who we are.
I have found something that I care about so much that it hurts. A journey that has been so difficult, but so amazing that I know it can only shape me into a better person. A journey that has caused me to trust God in every step I take. To rely on His grace and peace. Believing that he will provide all creative ideas and resources that we need. To realize that at some point, it is as good as it is going to get, and stop to let God take care of the rest. I have found something that I care about so much that it hurts, but I would not want to have it any other way.
To my wife and daughter, my close friends, and to our entire team, I must say that I am so proud of you and thankful for your help and support in creating this amazing community we are calling Bloom.
about Luke
June 7th, 2009 at 5:02 am
The compassion and heart you have for Bloom is moving. Thanks for taking the vision you were entrusted with to make it real for people…in every sense. You inspire me. Love you guys!
June 7th, 2009 at 6:15 am
“My friend Manny is happy that it has been hard. ” This made me laugh out loud! Thank you for being courageous and honest in the process. I echo your thanks to your family and add my thank you to you.
June 7th, 2009 at 6:15 am
Luke, have you read “Re-Jesus” by Hirsch & Frost? It’s a great book to add to your reading list as you prepare for your launch!
Keep pouring your heart into every detail!
June 8th, 2009 at 9:26 am
You all have worked really really hard, more than I know. I pray you all remember as the weights pile upon your shoulders and sometimes push you down into the ground, there comes relief, even if for a few moments. Manny has definitely shown me that it’s ok to hurt sometimes, it’s not a bad thing. Awesome bloggin’!
June 8th, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Luca:
I am honored to be on this crazy, intense, gut-wrenching, beautiful and emotional ride called Bloom. I won’t ever know what it must be like to lead all of us wide-eyed, cynical, broken, and hopeful people on this team, but am glad to be able to share this with you, mia and amy. My hope is that we do not grow weary, because then we have failed the people that our Saviour died for. Remember what Momma T says, “small things with great love.”