The Character Challenge

Regulars at EBC will know that last Spring I went on retreat for a week. I had a wonderful time as I embarked on a thousand-mile road trip, heading up to Scotland via my home town of Chester and the Lake District. I went to Scotland to take part in the “Xtreme Character Challenge” (XCC) which was a men-only wilderness adventure. There were about seventy of us, and I was in a team of nine (Team 281) as we spent three days hiking, climbing and camping out in the lower Highlands around Loch Tay. 

The experience was really full-on, testing us physically, mentally and emotionally. Many miles were walked, stories were told, tears were shed! The experience taught me (or at least reinforced for me) the importance of being honest in our assessment of ourselves and where we are at in life – and the value of having a clear idea of what our purpose, or heart’s desire is, together with people to hold us to account. 

Our current series, “Virtues & Vices” explores the idea that we are shaped and formed by what we do habitually. To make the most of the series, which I genuinely believe can be a life-changing one, we need to take serious time to reflect on the kind of people we want to be. What are the characteristics we want to have, and what are the pitfalls that stand in our way? What will we do, every day, that will grow our character in a healthy and godly way? What (or who) do we need to be aware of, and avoid? 

SEVEN VIRTUES 

Prudence, justice fortitude, temperance, faith, hope, love. 

SEVEN SINS 

Sloth, Gluttony, Wrath, Greed, Pride, Lust, Envy 

As we think and pray and reflect on this, it’s important we have trusted friends to talk things through with. Who are they for you? If you don’t have them, how will you go about finding them? 

I’ve noticed recently that our viewing figures for our YouTube services are looking quite strong but I’m not sure this is a good thing. Sure, on the face of it perhaps it means we are reaching people who cannot come to EBC for various reasons – maybe illness or distance, or other reasons prevent them. But at the back of my mind, I have a little concern – I really hope that if you are able to come in person, you do so regularly. I know we can’t always, and the YouTube option is helpful to have, and yet… you can’t be around a brotherhood or sisterhood when you’re not here in person. You don’t get the fellowship, the talking, the praying together. Hey, it’s just a gentle reminder… be here if you can, for your sake and for others too – you may be just the person someone else needs! 

As I write, I’m looking forward to this Sunday when I’ll be preaching on the so-called ‘mother of all virtues’, which is Prudence. If you need to work on your character (and we all do!) then I think it would be prudent of you to be here. 

See you on Sunday! 

Simon