Here are a few random thoughts after spending the Lord’s Day at General Conference:

1. I have enjoyed the various worship experiences, but I found it odd that this day seemed like all the others with the early worship gathering, presentations, a quick lunch, and then legislative committee meetings in the afternoon and evening. This year, one full day was removed from the General Conference schedule, and it seems that the spiritual discipline of Sabbath went with it. Can we really do “worshipful work” for 10 days without a Sabbath experience? All was not lost, however! I enjoyed a wonderful steak dinner and great fellowship with friends tonight at the Stockyards. Then, it was back to the Convention Center for our legislative committee meeting until 11 p.m.

2. Bishop William Hutchinson gave a refreshing, challenging and inspiring message on John 3:1-17 on remembering our baptism as “something more” that ushers us into the Kingdom of God. It was a welcome change in the midst of so much liberation theology that decries the USA as the evil empire and the US UMC as the dominant, unjust and oppressive church.

3. Most of the delegates from other annual conferences with whom I have talked seem to be so much more educated and prepared to discuss the issues than I am. I regret that we spent too little time reflecting on these serious matters as a delegation over the past year. I wish I had received more coaching from GC “veterans” who have learned how to work the process to their advantage. Obviously, leaders from other parts of the connection come prepared to do just that.
4. One revealing observation is how seriously many youth and young adults from jurisdictional and central conferences approach General Conference. For example, my legislative committee (which is considering pivotal proposals for our UM connection) is chaired by a college senior who is assisted by a 17-year old secretary. Other young people shared the “first address by youth at a General Conference” on Thursday, and it was very clear that their agenda is quite different from traditional, evangelical values. No young person from the Southeastern Jurisdiction has participated at any level of the GC as best I can tell. Conclusion: the future of the UMC leadership is being handed over by default to those whose agendas are quite different from mine.

Tomorrow, we vote for members of the Judicial Council (the “Supreme Court” of the UMC) and the University Senate (those who oversee and approve theological schools). Be much in prayer for these decisions as we seek to elect men and women who will help the UMC remain faithful to its scriptural foundations. Stay tuned.