The Lord is my strength and my might.
Psalm 118:14a
June 14, 2009
This is the time of year when many life transitions occur. Students promote from one grade to another, one school to another, or out of school altogether. It is a common time of year for families to move, while kids are between school years. Friends go away on vacation and children are left with nothing to do, and no one to do it with. Lovers marry, employees on academic year systems, such as teachers, retire. Add to these transitions those that take place year round, such as the transition from health to illness for self, family member, or pet; from employment to unemployment to new employment.
Any of these situations, and many more besides, is enough to have any of us asking if we have what it takes to make it through to the other side. The Psalmist rightfully points to the Lord as a source of strength on which we may draw. The Lord provides encouragement, direction, and confidence. If one is not accustomed to calling on the Lord in such times, then now is a great time to start! Name the need, express confidence in the Lords ability to respond, and forge ahead to the next thing.
So we have continued praying for you ever since we first heard about you. We ask
God to give you a complete understanding of what he wants to do in your lives and
we ask him to make you wise with spiritual wisdom.
Colossians 1:9
June 7, 2009
There is an African-American spiritual that sings, Somebody prayed for you. They kept you on their mind. They took the time to pray for you. Later in the song the singer substitutes the names of persons they know for the word somebody. My pastor, my teacher, my friend are common substitutes. The first time I sang my grandma I was choked up with emotion by the end of the third sentence. I knew I was singing something dependable and true; I knew God was hearing my name often because of my grandmas love for me. I was deeply moved.
When children are born into the church family, whether as infants, pre-teens, or teens, their names may often be on our lips for many reasons. The best reason is because we hold these people in prayer. God has given these people, who are precious in Gods sight, into our hands for safe keeping, for nurturing, and for equipping as disciples, before sending them out into the world with even more prayer. What a privilege we have to be called by God for such an important ministry. Let us pray.
In my distress I called to the Lord, and he answered me.
Jonah 2:2a
May 31, 2009
Sometimes it seems as if we live life in a pressure cooker. New demands, higher expectations, added responsibility, always something more required of us. Sometimes we just want to run away from it all.
In those times we can depend on God to be with us and supporting us, whether it people asking more of us, God asking more of us, or us expecting too much of ourselves. God will be with us when we are in the places we dont wish to go (Ninevah) and to the ends of the earth (Tarshishall the way to Spain)! And even before we have called on God, God has sent a deliverer for us, to carry us through the tumult, and to deliver us safely back on our feet.
Let us do like Jonah did, and call out to the Lord, with our need and our Praise.
[after giving birth to Benjamin] Rachel died, and she was buried on the way to Ephrath
(that is, Bethlehem), and Jacob set up a pillar at her grave; it is the pillar of
Rachels tomb, which is there to this day.
Genesis 35:19-20
May 24, 2009
Jacob was fond of using stones to mark the places where important things happened. He used a stone to mark the place where he wrestled with God. He initiated a heap of stones to mark the boundary agreed to in a covenant with his uncle Laban. And he uses a stone to mark the place where his beloved Rachel is buried.
Still today we build memorials to remind us of significant events in our lives, or in the lives of our communities, events that we will actually never forgetthey are too momentous. However, the true memory is being created for those who never knew the original event, but who do inherit the legacy of that event.
On Memorial Day weekend we are reminded, by the stone of a three-day-weekend, that some people across the generations gave their everything so that we can choose how to show our remembrance of their gifts; so we can choose how to honor our citizenship in this country that provides us these freedoms of choice; so that we can choose how and when and whether to worship the God of our ancestors whom we know through Christ. At this time of remembering, let us give thanks to our God for those who went before us; thanks for the steadfast presence of God who was with them and with us; and let us build a peace that will be an everlasting memorial for all of Gods people.
Humble your selves therefore under the mighty hand of God, so that he may exalt you
in due time. Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you. Discipline
yourselves, keep alert. Like a roaring lion your adversary prowls around, looking
for someone to devour. Resist, steadfast in your faith, for you know that your brothers
and sisters in all the world are undergoing the same kinds of suffering. And after
you have suffered for a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to
his eternal glory in Christ, will by Gods own choice restore, support, strengthen,
and establish you. To God be the power forever and ever. Amen.
1 Peter 5:6-11 May 3 2009
These words in 1 Peter, written so long ago to a church struggling with persecution from non-believers, are surprisingly appropriate for us today as we face a possible health pandemic. The circumstances of possibly not being able to keep ourselves healthy, or protect our children or frail ones from infection, is humbling indeed. Instead of yielding to the temptation of panic, however, God calls us to trust in God for wisdom and guidance and mercy through this hard spot.
God delivers Gods wisdom through people God has put in place for a time such as this, including some of the people at the Center for Disease Control, our doctors offices, and our spiritual leaders, our close friends and caring family members. We can also learn from others in our global community about how to address our needs as they come along. Thus, we can care for each one who suffers, offering the kind of Grace that God has offered to each of us.
When they had finished breakfast, Jesus said to Simon Peter, Simon son of John, do you love me more than these? He said to him, Yes, Lord; you know that I love you. Jesus said to him, Feed my lambs.
John 21:15
April 19, 2009
Not so long ago Peter was standing in a courtyard outside Caiaphas palace telling anyone who asked that Peter did not even know Jesus. Today Peter recognizes the risen Christ before any of his companions do, and declares his love for Jesus in this briefest, yet most profound, statement of faith. Typically, Jesus does not even bring up the denial, but moves directly ahead to more urgent business: tending his sheep.
One thing we learn from Jesus in this story is that relationships are stronger and more important than the mess-ups we sometimes make. Jesus is not focusing on Peters mistake, but on the future proof of Petes love. Jesus wants us to show our love for him, not just to say the words. And the proof that Jesus wants is that we feed and nurture, care for and shepherd those to whom Jesus ministeredanyone who needed him. So now Jesus asks us, Do you love me? What shall we reply? Jesus, you know I do, we respond. Lets prove it!
Dont be alarmed, [the man said]. You are looking for Jesus of Nazareth, who was
crucified. He has risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid him. But
go, tell his disciples.
Mark 16: 6 - 7
April 12, 2009
Against all odds, against all expectations, against the teaching of the Pharisees who believed in a resurrection, even against the wildest hopes of the disciples who heard him say it over and over again: Christ was raised from the dead by the God who truly has the power! He is risen! He is risen, indeed! Thanks be to God!
The crowds that went ahead of him and that followed were shouting, Hosanna to the
Son of David! Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the
highest heaven!
Matthew 21:9
April 5, 2009
Sometimes when the crowds start to shout we find ourselves right there shouting with themeven when we are not sure what it is, exactly, that we are shouting. It sounds exciting, and others certainly seem to believe it, so it must we worth saying.
Fortunately for us our God already knows what it is we need, and for what we are crying and searching, despite the words we say without understanding. In the case of the Biblical crowds they were crying for the good old days that they remember from their grandparents stories about long ago. What God heard them crying for was what Jesus had preached and taught about: the reign of God that is so near at hand that even the rocks are crying out with joy! Hosanna! Blessed is the one who comes in Gods holy name! Hosanna in the highest heaven!
"The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal
life.
John 4:14 (NRSV)
March 29, 2009
In the gospel of John Jesus claims to be many things: gate, shepherd, vine, lightbut he does not claim to be water. Still, he offers water, living water, and somehow in the offer it seems as if Jesus pours himself out for us, filling us, giving us life. He quenches our thirst so deliciously that we know we will never be thirsty again, just as he promised. And yet we do thirst for more of Jesus.
Living water is water that is always on the move. Water that sits still turns brackish and a breeding place for undesirable organisms to grow. Like the living water that Jesus offers us, Jesus wants us to be on the move. Jesus does not want us to sit as if in a puddle, but to move through life. Jesus hope that we will go tumbling over stones, seeping between roots, carrying fallen leaves or brushing up against the bare toes of playing children. Jesus calls us to receive him, and the gift of life in all its fullness that Jesus offers. No wonder a babbling brook often sounds as if it is laughing with joy!
I am the way and the truth...If you know me, you will know my Father also. From now
on you do know him and have seen him.
John 14:6-7 (NRSV)
March 22, 2009
Following Jesus was not an easy thing for the early disciples to do. Jesus ministry was controversial and stirred up feelings and crowds. Many were afraid that if people became too stirred up that riots would ensue and the Roman rulers occupying the Holy Land would crack down hard. Still, disciples said yes to following where Jesus led, even when they were not sure where the path Jesus was on would take them.
Its not any easier to follow Jesus today. In our culture we are not subject to the same kind of crackdown that the early disciples feared, or even people in other cultures contemporary to our own are risking. However, we live in an increasingly secular society, and people no longer assume the Christian values that seemed to have been the norm for so long. Instead, we are clearly on a path wandering to destinations unknown to us. One thing we can be sure of, however, is that Jesus is still calling us, and offering to be our teacher and our leader if we choose to follow. As for me, I wonder where the path leads, and what amazing discoveries lie ahead. I am more than ready to go where Jesus leads. Are you coming, too?
I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinegrower. He removes every branch in me
that bears no fruit. Every branch that bears fruit he prunes to make it bear more
fruit.
John 15:1-2 NRSV
March 15, 2009
Any gardener knows that judicious pruning helps grow more beautifully and produce more flowers and fruit. When plants are not pruned, they tend to become spindly and unattractive. Vineyard owners know that grape vines that go un-pruned tend to go wild! Quickly there are longer and longer branches reaching in every direction---but not fruit! Not a grape to be found.
It can be scary to think of ourselves as part of the vine, perhaps the part that God might cut away! But if we are grape vine branches and we produce no grapes, does our life have purpose? If we are Christians and we disregard our attachment to Christ the vine, have we disregarded our purpose? But the good news is that God prunes even the productive branches God prunes, making little snips and cuts, here and there. There may be pain and discomfort in that process, perhaps even loss, but imagine how much fuller our lives will be in the hands of the master vinegrower. May God see in you and me branches worthy of pruning so that we may be productive for the kingdom, and live life in its fullness.
I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.
I am
the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me
and I know the Father
.
John 10:11
March 8, 2009
Some might say that Jesus was mixing metaphors when he said he is a gate and immediately followed it by saying he is the good shepherd. In fact, shepherds really did act as gates, literally laying themselves down to sleep across the entrances to the sheep folds, keeping the sheep inside at night, and being between the sheep and whatever harm might come under the cover of darkness. In fact, a good shepherd would do almost anything to protect and care for their sheepwhich is really saying something when one considers how stupid sheep generally are. Sheep were more than stupid animals, however. They were valuable assets that provided food and commerce for the family.
When Jesus names himself as the good shepherd he puts us in the role of the stupid sheep. Perhaps there are times we feel qualified for that role. However, Jesus is also saying that we are tremendous assets to God, and that Jesus would do anything necessary to stand between us and possible spiritual harm. We, as the sheep, need only to know and recognize our shepherds voice, and be saved.
I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and
find pasture.
John 10:9
March 1, 2009
In Jesus day the cities in which people lived had gates, and they were two-way gates. For security and business transactions, and to go to the temple for worship, people came in the gate. For pasture of their livestock and for agricultural production (think food and wealth) they had to go out. Meanwhile, at the gate sat the teachers of the law, of the Book of Mosesteachers of the faith. The gate was a pretty important pivot point for the people.
When Jesus preaches that he is the gate, he is proclaiming many things: If one is looking for security, Jesus is the place to go. Need to conduct business with others? Include Jesus in that work. Want to worship God? Go through Jesus. Looking for nourishment and food? Jesus will feed. Looking for riches not found elsewhere? Jesus is the greatest source. Looking for wisdom and answers? Jesus is the teacher to consult. Looking to get away from the pressures of the city, the world, its peoples? Follow Jesus into the wilderness for a time of reflection and renewal.
Jesus is the gate, and the latch is unlocked. All who desire to pass through are welcome. Even you. Even me.
Again Jesus said to them, saying, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me
will never walk in darkness but will have the light of life.
John 8:12
February 22, 2009
Without all the artificial light that modern industry has created the world is pretty dark place when nighttime arrives. Imagine the city streets where Jesus lived, with only a few campfires burning on low embers. No wonder people locked their doors and stayed inside after dark! It would be hard to see where you were going on unpaved streets. It would be even harder to see the bandits who lurked around waiting to pounce on the unsuspecting.
While it is not so dark on our streets today, there is still plenty of darkness over our lives. The loss of economic stability, anxiety about many things, and feelings of helplessness sometimes feel like bandits lurking in the night. The hope given us by the love of Christ is like a torch shining in the dark streets, chasing away shadows and helping us see where to walk. Those of us who have found that bit of light have the marvelous opportunity to share that light with others. Have you ever noticed how when you light one candle from another, the light is multiplied? Such is the hope Christ brings to us. Whatever else may be awaiting you, may your days be awash in the light of Christ.
Jesus said to them, "I am the bread of life. Whoever comes to me will never be hungry,
and whoever believes in me will never be thirsty.
John 6:35
February 15, 2009
Every culture of the world has some equivalent to our bread on their menu. Whether rice, ugali, or corn tortillas, such "bread" is a staple in the diets of the nearly 7 billion people on our globe. Bread is ubiquitouseverywhere! Even most of those who lived in Jesus' time at least had one small barley loaf to get them through the day. They either had it from their own work, or some kind soul would give them a loaf out of charity.
So, when Jesus picked up the bread and said to his disciples, " I am the bread of life" his disciples knew he was talking about something that was fundamental to life, something that could not be lived without. They also knew Jesus was talking about something that would nourish, and satisfy, and fuel them for the work ahead. And then Jesus said this, he, was everlasting food! Imagine having the hungers of your soul sated with the bread of life Christ is! If we ask, Christ will serve us the best meal we've ever had.
Have you not known? Have you not heard? Has it not been told you from the beginning?
Have you not understood from the foundations of the earth? It is God who sits above
the circle of the earth, and its inhabitants are like grasshoppers; who stretches
out the heavens like a curtain, and spreads them like a tent to live in
The Lord
is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth. He does not faint
or grow weary; his understanding is unsearchable.
Isaiah 40:21-22, 28 February 8, 2009
In the troublesome times in which we live it is easy to feel overwhelmed and hopeless. Unemployment is on the rise, as is homelessness, and theft. Every time the news projects how long it will be until things turn around the amount of time they give is longer. And those charged with taking action to turn things around cannot agree on a plan.
It seems like the last straw might be to read in Isaiah where we people are compared to grasshoppers, but there truly is a word of hope in that comparison. As overwhelming as everything else might be to us right now, our God is bigger and more powerful, more solid, more dependable than all that worries us. We are so small compared to the God who can throw stars across the heavens, who can hang curtains of clouds and streamers of sunbeams. However, to say we are small is not to say we are insignificant. Consider how loud the crickets (grasshopper relatives) sing, and how much damage locusts (another relative) can do. But when we put our problems in perspective, when we line them up next to God's great works, we can take comfort that God is more, that our problems will ultimately pass, and that our great bit, powerful, and amazing God will be with us it all.
Who is wise and understanding among you? Show by your good life that your works are
done with gentleness born of wisdom. But if you have bitter envy and selfish ambition
in your hearts, do not be boastful and false to the truth. Such wisdom does not
come down from above, but is earthly, unspiritual, devilish. For where there is
envy and selfish ambition, there will also be disorder and wickedness of every kind.
But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield,
full of mercy and good fruits, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. And a
harvest of righteousness is sown in peace for those who make peace.
James 3:13-17
February 1, 2009
On two different occasions today I heard a person talking another individual who had done something considered objectionable by the speaker. One speaker was ranting about the person who had done the objectionable thing, and was advised by a third person to gather more information before passing judgment. The speaker immediately ramped up the ranting and declared that all necessary information was already at hand; nothing more needed to be known. In the second situation, the speaker was calmly, but sadly, reflecting on the objectionable thing that had been done to the speaker. Despite this person's grief, this person was attempting to discover a positive and productive way to move forward.
Both speakers claim to be Christian, but I can't help but pass my own judgment on this situation and say that the second speaker, the sad speaker, reflects more what James is urging the church to be like. James encourages us to draw on wisdom from God, that such wisdom embodies gentleness, purity, mercy and peace. Hearing those two speakers nearly side-by-side made me want to examine my own reactions to situations. James wrote these words and strived for this kind of response even in the face of persecution and his own martyrdom. Surely in the easier life I have I, tooand perhaps you, too, could embody gentleness, purity, mercy and peace. May wisdom from above reside in you and me.
I want you to know me, to trust me, and understand that I alone am God.
Isaiah 43:10 (CEV)
January 25, 2009
The Bible is filled with stories of individuals who struggle to do things alone and in their own way, and the troubles that result from those struggles. There are also countless stories of individuals who trusted God, relied upon God, waited upon God, and found things working out in the long run.
The story of Rebekah is such a story. Jacob sends his servant back to the old country to find a wife for his son Isaac. He trusted that God would be with his servant. The servant went, offered prayer to God asking for help in accomplishing his task, and was rewarded with success in finding beautiful Rebekah. Rebekah trusted God's call on her life and returned to the promised land with Jacobs servant, a land far from her home, to marry a man she had never met, and ultimately became part of the covenant God had made with God's people Israel.
For none of those people was life easy, just as it is not for you and I most of the time. However, I suspect that all of these people found significant fulfillment as they experienced challenging events in their lives, and they also found that God was faithful in powerful ways. May it be so for you and me.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful,
I know that full well.
Psalm 139:14
January 18, 2009
While the snow on our ground in our area may be gone, the winter is only one third past and skiers, at least, hope for so much more snow to come in the mountains. One of the things that I love so much is the idea that God has made each snowflake absolutely uniquethere are no two alike! Try catching them on dark paper and looking at them with a magnifying glass! I have caught many on paper, and on my tongue, my fingers, my gloves, so I also know how fragile they are. How quickly they melt, or disintegrate, when the heat is one just one flake. Yet, when the flakes stick together suddenly they become very strong, strong enough to cause damage in collapsing roofs or avalanches, but also powerful enough to provide shelter in the shape of igloos or snow caves, and the foundation to hours of fun for skiers, and snowshoe hikers, and children with sleds.
God has made us a lot like snowflakes. We are each uniquely and beautifully made, yet fragile when we try to tackle life alone. But, when we stick together, we become powerful enough to cause great things to happen, good things and bad things. On this Martin Luther King Jr. weekend we are reminded how racists sticking together have caused terrible harm, and how others sticking together have helped us on the road to healing from that harm. If we remember to be tempered by our relationship with our God, then perhaps our sticking together will be cause for celebration and play because of all the good we can do. Bring out to toboggans and praise God!
Praise the Lord! How good it is to sing praises to our God; for he is gracious, and
a song of praise is fitting. He determines the number of the stars; he gives to
all of them their names. Great is our Lord, and abundant in power; his understanding
is beyond measure.
Psalm 147:1, 4-5
January 4, 2009
One night when I was a young girl I had gone camping with our club. We were far enough out in the country that the city lights had been left behind. Three of us girls were walking across a big open field when we stopped to look up at the night sky. As we tilted our head back, and turned to take in the starry sky, we were almost dizzy with what we saw. The older girls who were leading me wanted to keep on going, but I wanted to sink down into the grass and soak in the magnificent sight. There were more stars than one could even imagine, and even too many shooting stars to count.
For me that night was overwhelming, but for ancient sky watchers, like the Magi, the night sky must have been very familiar. When something unusual happened they would have noticed, and when something spectacular happened, it would have been time to take action! Today no one knows if what the Magi saw was a new star, a comet, or a confluence of stars or planets, but whatever it was, they knew something important was happening and they wanted to see. Trusting in a God they may not have even met, yet, they loaded their camels and followed that star to see where it led.
We who live in the 21st century are such products of the Age of Reason that we are less likely to follow a star than we are to research about it. We might miss what beautiful experiences God has in store for us because our heads are staring at computers instead of at stars. Perhaps one of our new year's resolutions could be to follow the stars God shoots across our paths, to see where they lead, and to see what new thing God is doing now! Perhaps we might even encounter the Christ child!
People: We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks; your name is near.
People tell of your wondrous deeds.
God: At the set time I appoint I will judge with equity. When the earth totters,
with all its inhabitants, it is I who keep its pillars steady.
Psalm 75 1-3
January 4, 2009
What a flurry of winter storms and holiday activities we've experienced! Add to that the uncertain schedule of school children on break and life takes on a hectic and disordered feel. When children return to their school schedule, how relieved parents will feel to have the order of a regular schedule restored.
Sometimes our spiritual lives can take on a flurry of disorder as well. Our prayer or study habits may be unintentionally abandoned. We cannot remember the last time we went to worship. Or perhaps we have stomped away from God because something did not happen the way we expected and we hold God responsible. Chaos reigns and in the mess God seems hard to find. Fortunately for us, God is so steady and reliable, that if we but take a deep breath and call out God's name, chances are we will find that God is indeed God-with-us, ready to help us restore the order for which we long.
Blessed are those who trust in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. They shall be like
a tree planted by water, sending out its roots by the stream. It shall not fear
when heat comes, and its leaves shall stay green; in the year of drought it is not
anxious, and it does not cease to bear fruit.
Jeremiah 16:7-8
December 14, 2008
When we wait for something, or expect something, it is quite easy to get anxious about it. My ten-year-old son put out a request to his extended family for help with something. While he waited for the answer his anxiety was that their help would be insufficient, or worse, not forthcoming at all. Recently, as I have waited for word from the doctors on the outcome of some medical tests, I experienced how quickly the mind can conjure worst-case scenarios.
When Mary learned that she was pregnant before her wedding, and when Joseph learned that his intended was expecting, how anxious they both must have been, as least for a moment! As we read the scripture stories, however, we discover that any anxiety would have been short-lived. Instead, they heard God's messengers deliver words of assurance and promise from God, and they trusted God to be a source of comfort and strength through the journey ahead. Whether we are faced with minor worries about wrapping Christmas presents, or major life concerns about employment or other things, may we choose not to be anxious but to trust God's providence for us.
When you did awesome deeds that we did not expect, you came down, the mountains quaked
at your presence. From ages past no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye
has seen any God besides you, who works for those who wait for him.
Isaiah 63:3-4
December 7, 2008
One of the things I've learned from more than twenty years of being in ministry with children and teens, is that children and teens tend to live up to our expectations of them. Whatever we expect of them, most of the time they prove us rightgood for our ego! Now and then they prove us wrong and either amaze us (because we underestimate them) or disappoint us (we either had unrealistic expectations or they are simply imperfect people. Either way, by staying in relationship with them, they have the opportunity to amaze us again.
When God acts it is quite possible for us to have a whole host of simultaneous reactions, including amazement at what God can and does do, and even disappointment that God does not necessarily do things as we would direct or beg God to. Nonetheless, what we can count on is that God will be God. That means we can depend on God to act in some way, ultimately turning even the difficult things around for some blessing. And, if we wait expectantly, we will indeed see that God does come down to dwell near and among God's people, desiring to be in relationship with us still, and again. Draw near to us, O God, for we expect you.
Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!
Psalm 27:14
November 30, 2008
One of the most difficult things to do is to wait. We are an impatient people, accustomed to news arriving within minutes, and computer processes happening in seconds. Waiting for Christmas is nearly impossible, so we begin planning and celebrating as early as Halloween. Imagine what it must have been like for the generations of our Biblical ancestors who waited through a long time of apparent silence by God, waiting for God to speak once again. The people were conquered and taken off into exile and waited in vain, it seemed, for a comforting word from God.
You and I know how this story ends, so we know that God does hear the cry of God's people, again. And we know that God sends a savior to redeem God's people and to restore God's people to God. There is hope for us now, as we wait, that God will hear our cry in this time and place, that God will redeem us, and that God will restore us. The color blue is a symbol of hope. Every time you see the color blue may it remind you of the hope you have in the savior that has already come into the world, and who is waiting for an invitation to come into our hearts and lives again!
Our Father, which art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will
be done, on earth as in heaven.
Matthew 6:9b
November 16, 2008
I am guilty. So often when I pray I begin with words something like, "O God, help me for this is what is happening in my life." But when Jesus taught us to pray, he also taught us manners. When we are friends or acquaintances with someone we are also genuinely interested in who they are and what they are about. Jesus teaches us, when we open a conversation with God, to first say "hello" and then to address what God is doingthis prayer talks about God building a divine kingdom. Later in the prayer are opportunities to make our requests and needs known, which God will surely hear even as God already knows them before we ask.
When we pray, perhaps a friendly greeting is in order first: "Hey, God, how's it going? What a great day you have made todayI know I'm going to enjoy it." Then you and God can have a great chat.
Know that the Lord is God. It is he that made us, and we are his; we are his people,
and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts
with praise. Give thanks to him, bless his name. For the Lord is good; his steadfast
love endures forever, and his faithfulness to all generations.
Psalm 100:3-5
November 23, 2008
Spending Thanksgiving being grateful for what we have, and thanking God for the many blessings that God has poured out upon us are not the same thing. How easy it is to fall into the trap of thinking that we alone have made our own success, when in actuality so many things beyond our control have lined up to produce our success, including unforeseen obstacles that have been unexpectedly overcome. Sometimes someone's actions have created unintended consequences that have created benefits for us. Sometimes we've been challenged in the face of an obstacle and prevailed. It seems to me that, in God's mysterious ways, God works in and through people, including you and me, to make remarkable things happen. And sometimes, it seems, God succeeds despite my fumbles and other apparent efforts toward failure. Thank you, God, for all the ways that You persevere in Your efforts to bless me and those I love. May my faithfulness to You be as enduring as Your faithfulness to all Your people.
When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the Gentiles do; for they think
that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your
Father know what you need before you ask him.
Matthew 6:7
November 9, 2008
Jesus' disciples had been following him around for some time, and they had obviously noticed that routinely Jesus took time out to pray in solitude. No doubt they had also had a few other experiences of seeing others praying, perhaps standing on the street corners shouting out their prayers for all to hear. Perplexed at the contrast, they asked Jesus to teach them how to pray.
In the first lines of Jesus' instruction are two critical components of prayer. One, be sincere. God isn't really interested in our false piety. God truly wants to hear what we have to say and what we need. God is interested in us. Two, however stumbling our efforts at prayer, God will be able to respond because God already knows our need. God is not dependent on us finding the right combination of words. God knows whether our need is compassion or encouragement, or something else altogether.
So, look for an opportunity, draw near to God, and tell God like you feel it. God will be so glad to hear from you.
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "See, the home of God is among mortals.
He will dwell with them as their God; they will be his peoples, and God himself
will be with them; he will wipe away every tear from their eyes. Death will be no
more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed
away."
Revelation 21:3-4
November 2, 2008
In our rush to make our costumes and fill our sacks with treats, we forget that the original name of Halloween was All Hallow's Eve, indicating that the next day would be the day we remember the dead: All Saints Day is November 1.
This is the day we remember and celebrate the saints of ages past and especially the faithful ones who have died in the past year. In worship we will name those in our own faith community who have died in the past year, as well as those from our families and circles of friends who have died. For each we will ring a bell or light a candle, solemnly remembering them and our grief, but also celebrating their birth into everlasting life. This is also a great day celebrate the living saints, those among us who strive to live faithfully each day, and who serve as role models for us as we grow into our own discipleship and sainthood. Sainthood! Yes, sainthood can be for all of us. All of us are called to live into the grace and peace of our Lord. A blessed saints day to you.
You shall set [the first of the fruit of the ground] down before the Lord. Then you,
together with the Levites and the aliens who reside among you, shall celebrate with
all the bounty that the Lord your God has given to you and to your house.
Deuteronomy 26:
October 26, 2008
As I sit in my office trying to decide what to write I am positively overwhelmed by the noise of a group of teens. They are planning a celebration, a party, that they are going to give tomorrow to the children. Anyone listening to the noise is likely to think the party already underway. The teens are having so much fun just making preparations.
When God asks for the first fruits of our labors I wonder if this is one of the things God would like to receive: our joy and the anticipation of our joy when we give generously to others. I certainly know how much fun I have when I plan a gift for someone and set out with joyful anticipation to make that gift happen. And I'm pretty sure the receiver experiences my joy as well, when at last the gift is given. What joy God receives in our gifts joyously given!
So if I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also ought to wash one
another's feet. For I have set you an example, that you also should do as I have
done to you.
John 13:14
October 19, 2008
As a child I often heard that as the oldest child I was to be an example to my sisters for how to behave. That was difficult enough when it was a matter of minding my manners or being obedient to my parents. How impossible it seem when we start talking about setting an example by doing the things that Jesus did! Jesus healed and did miracles! He preached to thousands of people. He even walked everywhere he went. How many of us are willing, or able, to do that?
In fact, we can. Any time we offer a word of comfort, or stay calm in a difficult situation, we are healers. When we assist someone in accomplishing something that has begun to feel impossible we do miracles. Whenever we encourage someone or give them a word of hope we bring life. Any time we speak to someone, we have the opportunity to preach an attitude of mercy, generosity, and gracejust as Jesus did. And as for walking, one of the best ways to walk a mile in someone else's shoes is to sit with them and ask them to tell their story one more time.
Jesus did what he did in a few short years of ministry. We have a lifetime to do likewise. Let's do.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known
to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by
prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts
and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 4:4-7
October 12, 2008
Rejoice! No matter what happens in our lives, there are still things, happenings, people, for which we can be grateful, that we can celebrate in our lives. Yes, there are trials and circumstances that will challenge us to the utmost; things that will bring us down, experiences that will cause us to lose our focus, careless comments that will hurt deep down, random events that will rankle. None-the-less, rejoice! writes the author of our text. Translated another way, Party!
Party in God, always, and again I say, party! How do we do that even when things are so difficult or so gray? Our author goes on to tell us to think about good things: whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me (our author), and the God of peace will be with you (Philippians 4:8-9). Seems like it might be worth a try, especially on the most difficult of days.
After
taking the cup, he gave thanks and said, Take this and divide it among you. For
I tell you I will not drink again of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of
God comes. And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying,
This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me. In the same way,
after the supper he took the cup, saying, This cup is the new covenant in my blood,
which is poured out for you.
Luke 22:17-20
October 5, 2008
One of my favorite things to do as a pastor is to serve Holy Communion, whether in worship in our sanctuary at the church, in a makeshift worship center at a retreat or mission trip, or in the homes and hospital rooms of congregants. For me, especially on this day called World Communion Sunday, Holy Communion is a significant act of connecting with others: fellow Christians around the world whose loaves might be rice cakes, or tortillas, or ugali; fellow Christians across the centuries and under the rule of a variety of rulers ranging from benevolent to dictatorial, Christian or pagan; fellow Christians across denominational lines and methods of practice, from daily, to monthly, to annual celebration of this meal, to the use of wine or juice, wafer or bread, members only or all who come. Most of all, for me Holy Communion is an act of connection with the divine, somehow represented in the elements on the table that we can see as it is broken, and hear as it is poured, that we receive in our hands, that we smell as it approaches our lips, that we taste as it lands on our tongues and slides down our throats to fill us up. What a connection! What a blessing!
Then God said, "Let us make humankind in our image, according to our likeness;
So
God created humankind in his image, in the image of God he created them; male and
female he created them. God blessed them
God saw everything that he made, and indeed,
it was very good. And there was evening and there was morning, the sixth day.
Genesis 26a, 27-28a, 31.
September 28, 2008
If we read some of the other verses of this part of Genesis, we also read about our purpose, which is to be stewards of creationgood stewards. However, part of me believes that God had one more purpose in creating us humanspleasure! Pure pleasure! If I had been the one creating all that had been created before people, I would have been quite pleased with myself, quite delighted, and I would have wanted to do one more fun thing before stopping for a break! And so God made people, and God made them in God's image, and God blessed them, and God liked what God saw. There was something about what God had created that was very good.
Whatever happens in subsequent Bible stories that reveals our human failings, we need to remember that God found goodness in what God had createdenough goodness to give us a blessing, enough goodness to feel satisfied and take a holy break. Let us take delight in God's delight, and join God in taking Sabbath rest .
Don't
say you are too young," the Lord answered. "If I tell you to go and speak
to someone, then go! And when I tell you what to say, don't leave out a word! I
promise to be with you and keep you safe, so don't be afraid." …The
Lord reached out his hand, then [the Lord] touched my mouth and said, "I am
giving you the words to say, and I am sending you with authority to speak to the
nations for me.
Jeremiah 1:4-10a CEV
September 21, 2008
Walking the Christian Walk is not an easy life-style. The terrain varies tremendously.
Sometimes the path is strewn with boulders and rocks that might cause us to injury.
Sometimes the ground slips away beneath our feet making forward progress difficult.
Sometimes we trip and fall flat on our faces. In situations like these, we need
good hiking boots, we need courage and character in order to pick ourselves up and
keep on going.
Fortunately for us, God is with us in these situations, and God provides what we
need. We need not fear that we are alone, inadequate or without the necessary resources
to keep going. God will be with us, and God will be like a walking still to provide
balance, leverage, and support. So, walk on! Remind yourself that you are a Christian,
that you belong to the living God, and then rely on God's presence to see you through
each day.
Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good; love
one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor. Do not lag
in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.
Romans 12:9-11
September 14, 2008
With the summer Olympics happening recently, and the presidential and other elections ramping up to high gear, I've been reflecting a bit on competition, and competitive natures, and how competitive I am or am not (mostly not).
As I look around, sometimes I see some terribly negative aspects to competition and some highly positive aspects as well. The name calling and slandering of other candidates is certainly undesirable. On the other hand, the efforts toward excellence or personal improvement are more than commendable.
Our scriptures speak to this very thing. In the 10 commandments we are told that God does not want us to compete with one another for the things the others has: do not covet your neighbor's possessions or wife! On the other hand, to outdo one another in showing honor and treating another with respectthat is something we are specifically encouraged to do, especially within the community of faith, but also beyond to any one that might respond to a living testimony to the presence of Christ in our lives. Who knows? The persons who experience our living testimonies by way of receiving honor may find themselves competing with us for the privilege. May the best of usall of us, win this competition.
Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all
your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.
Luke 10:27
September 7, 2008
If you think about it, that's a lot of stuff to love God with. It's everything! Heart! Soul! Strength! Mind! And then once we've loved God with all of that we still have more loving to do! How are we going to manage that?
Here are a couple of thoughts. First, a good parent can tell us that there is always enough love to go around. Having a baby doesn't mean there is less love for dad, and having another baby doesn't mean there is no more love for the first baby. The love seems to keep growing even as the need grows.
Second, in God's economy, in God's way of doing things, those three commandments to love God, neighbor and self are all equally important. Even more significant is the understanding that loving neighbor and self are the greatest ways to love God!
So, give it all you've got and get loving!