I'm thinking about how do you reconcile a God who might kiss you in to eternity as Rev. Spurgeon suggests and God as seen in the Old Testament.

One of the things we all noticed from our visit with the Pentecostals was they are able to create an environment where the fact that life sometimes, maybe even frequently, sucks is right out there on the table ... and the beneficial part of that is then the message that one is not alone in the mess can be expressed and heard. The Pentecostal experience struck me as therapeutic ... cathartic. They did a feel good segment and a feel bad segment. The sermon was basically on "the Frogs" in our lives. Preacher didn't read the scripture, but he alluded to the Exodus account saying if God can't get your attention with frogs, he'll keep on ratcheting "it" up till you ... basically submit. It seemed like the real message was "your life sucks because of failings on your own part and God is in tough love mode till you get your stuff straight ... at which time the frogs will cease ... ." Lotsa Kleenex and "modesty covers" for those slain in the spirit. I am certain that the charismatic churches have unique personalities ... this one wasn't one I would want to share time with. We came in a little late and were directed to our seats by men in casual black outfits who looked like "security". The building structure was new, a warehouse style architecture devoid of windows and painted entirely black. The exits were not clearly illuminated. I would never be able to relax enough in such a place to be able to hear a message from God. Two days later I am still processing the non-verbal stuff. The stackable banquet-style chairs were very comfy ... dark purple. Everything was dark except the three huge media screens behind the preacher ... and his lucite pulpit.

And then what? It didn't seem like a very ... I don't know. The music was loud ... well, I like loud music, it just didn't ... it all seemed manipulative and condescending as well. I appreciated a willingness to be open to the Holy Spirit, it just seemed a bit frenzied and contrived. People hurried out afterwards ... . I'm hoping to visit the Episcopalians next.