I have just spent the past week doing LICC's Toolbox course, and after a day and a half of sleep to recover, I think I am just about ready to reflect on what I've learnt!

For those of you who aren't aware, Toolbox is LICC's course in how to be a whole-life disciple within the contemporary world. I am planning to write a series of posts on different things that I have learnt through the course, but there are two things that I have taken away from the experience as a whole.

The first is a delight in the innovation and creativity of the body of Christ. One of the devil's greatest tricks is to try and prevent us from engaging with one another. Why? Well, he knows that when two or three gather together with Christ amongst them, his kingdom is shaken and Christ's kingdom grows. There is a real power in getting together to discuss practical solutions to real problems for the whole-life Christian - and that power goes with us as we scatter out into the world.

Secondly, I have been excited by our examination of various world views such as consumerism, modernism, post-modernism and the like. The way in which these are spoken through advertising and products is astonishing. What is encouraging, however, is the disillusionment with these ideals and values expressed not only through the Tate Modern's collection (a true eye-opener), but also through the opposing, if confused values expressed in other creative media. For this Toolbox course, we went to see The Prince of Persia. Whatever you think of the film critically, as a social commentary it expressed a deep desire within people for family, identity, loyalty, trust, truth... What a contrast to the individualistic, live for yourself values of the world.

I find hope in the failure of the world to offer a successful, fulfilling and attainable alternative to God. While TV, film and art may seem to express extremes of the human condition in the present time, what they show is the state of society writ large. And to a society that is confused, lonely, isolated, depressed, gasping for meaning, and disillusioned - not necessarily all at once or all so distinct - we, the people of God, have something to offer. We offer access to the one relationship that is fulfilling. Access to a love that is truly unconditional and inclusive of all. Access to a family that strives to express true, deep love and concern. Access to a future that is tasted now and will culminate in a feast in its time. Access to significance, clarity, trust, hope, purpose, direction, adventure, rest.

My friends, we have a world thirsty for God - though they may not know it. And we have the key in our hands and hearts - Christ himself. Why should I not speak up? There is a world wanting and I know the One who can meet their needs.

"I, the LORD, have called you in righteousness;
       I will take hold of your hand.
       I will keep you and will make you
       to be a covenant for the people
       and a light for the Gentiles,

 to open eyes that are blind,
       to free captives from prison
       and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness." Isa 42:6-7