I was reading a little Donald Miller yesterday. Blue like jazz, and Searching for God knows what, are two of his many books. I have to admit that I had a little trouble following him sometimes, but he was talking about Christianity and the Bible. He was making the point that western Christianity has turned everything into formulas and bullet points.
He said, imagine the Christian faith before there were formula books and bullet points. Imagine reading the Bible without being predisposed to looking for or finding formulas and bullet points. When we lose our bent to control everything thru bullet points and formulas, Christianity again becomes a relationship and the Bible returns to being the rich story of God that is was intended. The mystery and the wonder returns. And I am smiling about that thought.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
good news on the home front
Daughter #2, Jennifer graduated from college on May 7th. She has been applying for jobs and going on interviews. Yesterday, she was offered and accepted a position with a clinical research firm in Lenexa.
How totally exciting. I can't decide who is more excited and more proud, Jenny or her parents. After the long haul of college, this is such a rewarding moment.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
How totally exciting. I can't decide who is more excited and more proud, Jenny or her parents. After the long haul of college, this is such a rewarding moment.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Hi
Yesterday was another great episode of the annual church golf tournament. Thank you so much to all of you who participated and to those of you who worked so hard to make it all happen.
I was reminded yesterday that I have a few friends that I don't talk to as much as I would like to, but they are daily readers of this blog. To them I say today: "hello my friend - it is a blessing to know you."
spam- about 5 comments came through yesterday on the blog- they were all spam. It used to be that I had to look at every one of them and decide which were spam, but now the blog has an automatic spam filter. It automatically quarantines any comment that appears to be "not right" in some way. Some comments seem benign enough, but there is a link embedded with them that will do who knows what when you click on it.
Wouldn't it be nice if we all had a spam filter so when people say things that come out wrong, the words just go away. Not posted to memory, not thought about again. Words collected, and then gone from sight. Every time I say something dumb I wish later for the words back. Please keep your spam filters on when I am around and don't hold against me the things that did not come out right. I will keep working on what I let come out of my mouth.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I was reminded yesterday that I have a few friends that I don't talk to as much as I would like to, but they are daily readers of this blog. To them I say today: "hello my friend - it is a blessing to know you."
spam- about 5 comments came through yesterday on the blog- they were all spam. It used to be that I had to look at every one of them and decide which were spam, but now the blog has an automatic spam filter. It automatically quarantines any comment that appears to be "not right" in some way. Some comments seem benign enough, but there is a link embedded with them that will do who knows what when you click on it.
Wouldn't it be nice if we all had a spam filter so when people say things that come out wrong, the words just go away. Not posted to memory, not thought about again. Words collected, and then gone from sight. Every time I say something dumb I wish later for the words back. Please keep your spam filters on when I am around and don't hold against me the things that did not come out right. I will keep working on what I let come out of my mouth.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, June 13, 2011
stuff, bad and good
So, it is not always easy trying to deal with everything that happens at church. Last week our big bus was driving on 50 highway with 30 kids on board when the motor caught on fire. The driver pulled over, the children were saved. The bus is probably totalled.
Over the last few weeks we have had several plants stolen from the church. can you imagine? someone digs up plants at church and moves them to their garden. How do you enjoy such plants? Oh, so pretty, and where did I get that plant? I stole it......from a church.
Someone was sleeping in one of our paper recycling dumpsters this past week. We are not sure of the connection, but the shuttle bus was also vandalized.
Gosh, lots of interesting, painful things this past week at church.
Ok, there were also some good things this past week.
The bridge on the walking trail is finished to the point of being officially opened. Go walk the east trail and you can now cross the marsh with no problem.
We baptized four people Sunday night who wanted to profess their faith and follow Jesus in baptism.
I met a man last night who wants to go on a medical mission trip. Our message is getting thru to our congregation. We all need to find our opportunities to live outside of ourselves.
Hard things, but plenty of good things too. Really good things.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Over the last few weeks we have had several plants stolen from the church. can you imagine? someone digs up plants at church and moves them to their garden. How do you enjoy such plants? Oh, so pretty, and where did I get that plant? I stole it......from a church.
Someone was sleeping in one of our paper recycling dumpsters this past week. We are not sure of the connection, but the shuttle bus was also vandalized.
Gosh, lots of interesting, painful things this past week at church.
Ok, there were also some good things this past week.
The bridge on the walking trail is finished to the point of being officially opened. Go walk the east trail and you can now cross the marsh with no problem.
We baptized four people Sunday night who wanted to profess their faith and follow Jesus in baptism.
I met a man last night who wants to go on a medical mission trip. Our message is getting thru to our congregation. We all need to find our opportunities to live outside of ourselves.
Hard things, but plenty of good things too. Really good things.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Standing with those in need
Over the past three weeks we have had teams in Joplin to help with tornado relief. We have had teams go during the week and teams go over the weekend. We have picked up trash, helped people pack, loaded trailers, and just about anything else that anyone needed.
Today is the third Sunday in a row that someone from Woods Chapel has been in worship at St. Paul's. We are no longer strangers to them, but they are getting to know our people and the spirit of our people. One of the greatest gifts that you can give to someone in need is to simply stand with them for the long haul. To be with them in worship is a signal that their church and their people are in our thoughts and prayers.
To love another is such a gift. Thank you all for being willing to share your time with those in Joplin. If you want to go on an upcoming trip, please sign up at the missions table. If you are reading this and you are from another united Methodist Church and would like to go on a trip, please call the church office. We would love to have you join us.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Today is the third Sunday in a row that someone from Woods Chapel has been in worship at St. Paul's. We are no longer strangers to them, but they are getting to know our people and the spirit of our people. One of the greatest gifts that you can give to someone in need is to simply stand with them for the long haul. To be with them in worship is a signal that their church and their people are in our thoughts and prayers.
To love another is such a gift. Thank you all for being willing to share your time with those in Joplin. If you want to go on an upcoming trip, please sign up at the missions table. If you are reading this and you are from another united Methodist Church and would like to go on a trip, please call the church office. We would love to have you join us.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
what is the same
Someone asked a wonderful question in a comment yesterday. "Are there things that are the same from culture to culture." Great question. It's a great question because we tend to think that everyone thinks and lives like we do.
Here are some of my experiences. They are only mine, and do not represent reality, just my experience in other lands. I am sorry for the honesty, but it is a good question and deserves an answer.
Things that are the same. Christians that I have met in Russia and Mozambique seem to really love God and have the joy of Jesus in their heart. They love their children and consider life a gift.
Things that are different. About everything else. In every country I have been in, the infrastructure was falling apart. Crumbling sidewalks, elevators that have never been inspected, toilets that don't flush, and you don't want to fly the local airlines in Russia. People are scrambling to make ends meet. Everyone has a side job or a side gig or something that they are selling, or they are hopeful that you will adopt them and give them money and things to improve their lives. [when you consider all that we have, I do not blame these people]
Health care is a disaster in most countries I have visited. Education is also a real challenge. In some cultures, women are more like property. In some cultures, girl babies are not wanted because they do not help support the family.
If you have ever gotten off a cruise ship to visit some exotic port, you remember that you were met by beautiful native people who were proudly selling their native crafts. What you don't know is that they walk or take the bus to where they sell their wares. They arrive home at a place that would be condemned in the states. Many of them do not have electricity or running water. They wake up in the morning and wonder if they will be able to feed their family. So they are glad to see you get off the cruise ship and walk towards their little craft shop.
Their churches have little or no buildings without our help. They can't afford a church bus. They arrive to the place of worship on Sunday morning and for the most part, all they have as the church is each other, and a trust in God, and, - - - that is enough. Makes you wonder whose culture is healthier.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Here are some of my experiences. They are only mine, and do not represent reality, just my experience in other lands. I am sorry for the honesty, but it is a good question and deserves an answer.
Things that are the same. Christians that I have met in Russia and Mozambique seem to really love God and have the joy of Jesus in their heart. They love their children and consider life a gift.
Things that are different. About everything else. In every country I have been in, the infrastructure was falling apart. Crumbling sidewalks, elevators that have never been inspected, toilets that don't flush, and you don't want to fly the local airlines in Russia. People are scrambling to make ends meet. Everyone has a side job or a side gig or something that they are selling, or they are hopeful that you will adopt them and give them money and things to improve their lives. [when you consider all that we have, I do not blame these people]
Health care is a disaster in most countries I have visited. Education is also a real challenge. In some cultures, women are more like property. In some cultures, girl babies are not wanted because they do not help support the family.
If you have ever gotten off a cruise ship to visit some exotic port, you remember that you were met by beautiful native people who were proudly selling their native crafts. What you don't know is that they walk or take the bus to where they sell their wares. They arrive home at a place that would be condemned in the states. Many of them do not have electricity or running water. They wake up in the morning and wonder if they will be able to feed their family. So they are glad to see you get off the cruise ship and walk towards their little craft shop.
Their churches have little or no buildings without our help. They can't afford a church bus. They arrive to the place of worship on Sunday morning and for the most part, all they have as the church is each other, and a trust in God, and, - - - that is enough. Makes you wonder whose culture is healthier.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Home from Jamaica
Saturday
Going home. And so we say goodbye to some new friends. And we say good bye to a culture that is lost in time, or stuck in time. Almost everything is 20 years old. I notice it the most at the church and in the faith of the people. It reminds me of America in the 1850’s out west. The pastors do not have any theologial education. Not that this makes them worse than we seminary trained folks. IN fact, this may make them far better for the service of God since for us, it can commonly be said that “much learning has made thee mad.”
At any rate, not only did they not attend seminary, they seem to own no books. They have no opportunity to read of people such as Bonhoeffer, Tolstoy or Rob Bell. Their faith is stuck in a time gone by. It is very simple and clear. There are no questions, just the rudimentary pieces of the faith. The problem with this I guess, is that their version of the simple story of faith contains a good deal of the heavy Christianity that places great loads on the backs of its hearers. Their culture also seems to be filled with a great deal of posturing to get things and an honoring of those who have them. I guess if we did not have things, then our culture might be just the same.
Anyway, today we will fly home, God willing. We will reflect on the friends made, the people helped and wonder about the long term good. I will finish tomorrows sermon which I hope will be helpful to the well read Methodists in Lee’s Summit. We return to our lives there with a reminder that we are in mission for Christ at home, just as we are on an overseas trip.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Going home. And so we say goodbye to some new friends. And we say good bye to a culture that is lost in time, or stuck in time. Almost everything is 20 years old. I notice it the most at the church and in the faith of the people. It reminds me of America in the 1850’s out west. The pastors do not have any theologial education. Not that this makes them worse than we seminary trained folks. IN fact, this may make them far better for the service of God since for us, it can commonly be said that “much learning has made thee mad.”
At any rate, not only did they not attend seminary, they seem to own no books. They have no opportunity to read of people such as Bonhoeffer, Tolstoy or Rob Bell. Their faith is stuck in a time gone by. It is very simple and clear. There are no questions, just the rudimentary pieces of the faith. The problem with this I guess, is that their version of the simple story of faith contains a good deal of the heavy Christianity that places great loads on the backs of its hearers. Their culture also seems to be filled with a great deal of posturing to get things and an honoring of those who have them. I guess if we did not have things, then our culture might be just the same.
Anyway, today we will fly home, God willing. We will reflect on the friends made, the people helped and wonder about the long term good. I will finish tomorrows sermon which I hope will be helpful to the well read Methodists in Lee’s Summit. We return to our lives there with a reminder that we are in mission for Christ at home, just as we are on an overseas trip.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Jamaica Friday
How do you take a break from Joplin to talk about the Jamaica dental mission trip? I am not sure, but I have to get my Jamaica posts finished. Today and tomorrow are the last two messages from the dental mission trip. Read back two weeks ago to catch the posts leading in to these.
Friday in Jamaica
When cultures collide. In mission work and on vacation, I have had the privilege in this life to visit many other countries. Russia, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Mozambique and a few others. There is one thing that is universally true about each of these destinations. They have customs and practices that are different from ours in America. They are in fact, in some cases, different to the point of offensive to us. Which makes me wonder, how do we come across to them? And the answer to this is obvious.
While we see a slower paced day and a relaxed attention to time as annoying or wasteful, some cultures see this as the way to enjoy the gift of life and celebrate the day. While we will never walk into a store and consider offering a lower price, in some cultures, it is expected and even welcomed as part of the game. We would never skim some off the top to bolster our personal position, but in some cultures, it is routine and accepted. We also would not, [I hope] use our position to better ourselves in some manner that was detrimental to others. But that is our culture, at least in the church.
Americans are strong, determined and giving. This can also be seen as arrogant, offensive and paternalistic. So missions better be about more than the blondies coming in and rescuing the poor. Missions better include us getting past the issue of stuff and finding one another as human beings. When we find the time to share about our families and our faith, then we have crossed the globe and connected with one another. This is how lasting relationships are made.
It’s a beautiful day in God’s world, be sure to see the good.
Friday in Jamaica
When cultures collide. In mission work and on vacation, I have had the privilege in this life to visit many other countries. Russia, Canada, Mexico, Jamaica, Mozambique and a few others. There is one thing that is universally true about each of these destinations. They have customs and practices that are different from ours in America. They are in fact, in some cases, different to the point of offensive to us. Which makes me wonder, how do we come across to them? And the answer to this is obvious.
While we see a slower paced day and a relaxed attention to time as annoying or wasteful, some cultures see this as the way to enjoy the gift of life and celebrate the day. While we will never walk into a store and consider offering a lower price, in some cultures, it is expected and even welcomed as part of the game. We would never skim some off the top to bolster our personal position, but in some cultures, it is routine and accepted. We also would not, [I hope] use our position to better ourselves in some manner that was detrimental to others. But that is our culture, at least in the church.
Americans are strong, determined and giving. This can also be seen as arrogant, offensive and paternalistic. So missions better be about more than the blondies coming in and rescuing the poor. Missions better include us getting past the issue of stuff and finding one another as human beings. When we find the time to share about our families and our faith, then we have crossed the globe and connected with one another. This is how lasting relationships are made.
It’s a beautiful day in God’s world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
time well spent (part two)
the men's group had an impromptu presentation yesterday (ty EK) and discussion about what affects us in life and how we react. stress was the focus topic...what brings it on and where it takes us. a comment was made that pointed out how these things create a distraction/diversion from what God has in mind for us... so true... There is a multitude of things that get in the way and take us off the path we are intended to travel. Tough job, tough finances, tough relationships, tough this tough that...Remember nothing was promised to be easy, but how I (we) react is so significant. Being there for each other, I feel, is vital to having a successful journey. When things are fuzzy people can help us see things with clarity. Time well spent.
Here for each other...great words to live by.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Here for each other...great words to live by.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
time well spent
i was able to spend some time this past weekend getting to know someone a little better. i have always seen him as a person who is comfortable in his own skin, but i knew very little about him. a few days together changed that. it goes back to the iceberg illustration Jeff has referred to in the past. The part above water is easily seen by everyone, it takes time invested in a person to see what is below the surface. I have spent time in my life in activities, groups, working alongside, studying and enjoying the simple things in life etc. with people I never really got to know. I understand I can't get to know everyone, but I sure could have done a better job at times. It is what binds us together and in many ways helps us to move forward. We are here for each other. That is a simple statement that carries a lot of weight and one I learned a little more about this weekend.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Monday, June 6, 2011
enjoy the people in your life
My wife gets on a plane every Monday and comes home on Friday. I don't get to see her very much. Add some big weekend event that I am involved in, like Annual Conference, and I may see her a lot less. My kids are all transient now. Moving in, moving out, moving on. They don't need their parents like they used to.
All of a sudden you wake up, and there isn't anyone else in the house. It feels like the "Cats in the cradle" song, made famous by one of my favorite singers, Harry Chapin. In the song, the Dad is never around when the kids are young, then when they grow up, they move on, and he is left alone.
So, enjoy the people in your life. Hug them. Smile at them. Breathe a little joy into their day. Nothing lasts for ever, so celebrate it while it is here.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
All of a sudden you wake up, and there isn't anyone else in the house. It feels like the "Cats in the cradle" song, made famous by one of my favorite singers, Harry Chapin. In the song, the Dad is never around when the kids are young, then when they grow up, they move on, and he is left alone.
So, enjoy the people in your life. Hug them. Smile at them. Breathe a little joy into their day. Nothing lasts for ever, so celebrate it while it is here.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
when we don't get it
Real people admit that they don't get it sometimes. Let's be honest, even those who pretend to have it all together, sometimes they don't get it either, they just have to keep pretending. Sometimes we don't get it. We don't get life.
I don't understand my child.
I don't understand my spouse.
I am fearful for the future.
I don't understand my upbringing.
I wish my friend was here.
I am lonely.
I don't like growing older.
Why did a tornado hit Joplin.
I don't get it.
At the end of the day, there is only one message that we need to remember. In good times and bad, God is with us. That is why we bow the knee. That is why we show up to worship. That is why we keep seeking Him. In our God we find hope and joy, even when, maybe especially in times when we don't have all the answers.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I don't understand my child.
I don't understand my spouse.
I am fearful for the future.
I don't understand my upbringing.
I wish my friend was here.
I am lonely.
I don't like growing older.
Why did a tornado hit Joplin.
I don't get it.
At the end of the day, there is only one message that we need to remember. In good times and bad, God is with us. That is why we bow the knee. That is why we show up to worship. That is why we keep seeking Him. In our God we find hope and joy, even when, maybe especially in times when we don't have all the answers.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, June 4, 2011
the life saving station
On a dangerous seacoast where shipwrecks often occur there was a once a crude little life-saving station. The building was just a hut, and there was only one boat, but the few devoted members kept a constant watch over the sea, and with no thought for themselves, they went out day or night tirelessly searching for the lost.
Many lives were saved by this wonderful little station, so that it became famous. Some of those who were saved, and various others in the surrounding areas, wanted to become associated with the station and give of their time and money and effort for the support of its work. New boats were bought and new crews were trained. The little life-saving station grew.
Some of the new members of the life-saving station were unhappy that the building was so crude and so poorly equipped. They felt that a more comfortable place should be provided as the first refuge of those saved from the sea
So they replaced the emergency cots with beds and put better furniture in an enlarged building. Now the life-saving station became a popular gathering place for its members, and they re-decorated it beautifully and furnished it as a sort of club.
Less of the members were now interested in going to sea on life-saving missions, so they hired life boat crews to do this work.
The mission of life-saving was still given lip-service but most were too busy or lacked the necessary commitment to take part in the life-saving activities personally.
About this time a large ship was wrecked off the coast, and the hired crews brought in boat loads of cold, wet, and half-drowned people.
They were dirty and sick, and some of them had black skin, and some spoke a strange language, and the beautiful new club was considerably messed up. So the property committee immediately had a shower house built outside the club where victims of shipwreck could be cleaned up before coming inside.
At the next meeting, there was a split in the club membership. Most of the members wanted to stop the club's life-saving activities as being unpleasant and a hindrance to the normal life pattern of the club.
But some members insisted that life-saving was their primary purpose and pointed out that they were still called a life-saving station. But they were finally voted down and told that if they wanted to save the life of all the various kinds of people who were shipwrecked in those waters, they could begin their own life-saving station down the coast. They did.
As the years went by, the new station experienced the same changes that had occurred in the old. They evolved into a club and yet another life-saving station was founded.
If you visit the seacoast today you will find a number of exclusive clubs along that shore. Shipwrecks are still frequent in those waters, only now most of the people drown.
And it's a beautiful day in God's world.
Many lives were saved by this wonderful little station, so that it became famous. Some of those who were saved, and various others in the surrounding areas, wanted to become associated with the station and give of their time and money and effort for the support of its work. New boats were bought and new crews were trained. The little life-saving station grew.
Some of the new members of the life-saving station were unhappy that the building was so crude and so poorly equipped. They felt that a more comfortable place should be provided as the first refuge of those saved from the sea
So they replaced the emergency cots with beds and put better furniture in an enlarged building. Now the life-saving station became a popular gathering place for its members, and they re-decorated it beautifully and furnished it as a sort of club.
Less of the members were now interested in going to sea on life-saving missions, so they hired life boat crews to do this work.
The mission of life-saving was still given lip-service but most were too busy or lacked the necessary commitment to take part in the life-saving activities personally.
About this time a large ship was wrecked off the coast, and the hired crews brought in boat loads of cold, wet, and half-drowned people.
They were dirty and sick, and some of them had black skin, and some spoke a strange language, and the beautiful new club was considerably messed up. So the property committee immediately had a shower house built outside the club where victims of shipwreck could be cleaned up before coming inside.
At the next meeting, there was a split in the club membership. Most of the members wanted to stop the club's life-saving activities as being unpleasant and a hindrance to the normal life pattern of the club.
But some members insisted that life-saving was their primary purpose and pointed out that they were still called a life-saving station. But they were finally voted down and told that if they wanted to save the life of all the various kinds of people who were shipwrecked in those waters, they could begin their own life-saving station down the coast. They did.
As the years went by, the new station experienced the same changes that had occurred in the old. They evolved into a club and yet another life-saving station was founded.
If you visit the seacoast today you will find a number of exclusive clubs along that shore. Shipwrecks are still frequent in those waters, only now most of the people drown.
And it's a beautiful day in God's world.
Friday, June 3, 2011
charity or compassion
Charity or compassion. Both are good. But charity is simply offering a hand out. When we act with charity, we take some of "our" stuff and give it to someone else. We write the obligatory check or dutifully offer our time. Then we go back to our life. We are aware of the gift, but it is somewhat of an interruption to "our" lives.
When we act with compassion we get drawn into the moment. We feel the pain of those whom we are helping. Our things become God's things. Our time becomes God's time. When we act with compassion, all children are our children. We begin to live the life of love and don't even know it. Our total being becomes tied up in reaching or helping the person or cause. We become blissfully self-unaware.
I was hungry and you fed me.
When were you hungry and we fed you?
To live the life of compassion is to live the life of love. It is to live the life of Christ.
When you give to the church, are you living out of charity or compassion? When you think about Joplin or Mozambique, does your response come from charity or compassion? May we not give or act out begrudgingly, but with joy, for God loves a cheerful giver.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
When we act with compassion we get drawn into the moment. We feel the pain of those whom we are helping. Our things become God's things. Our time becomes God's time. When we act with compassion, all children are our children. We begin to live the life of love and don't even know it. Our total being becomes tied up in reaching or helping the person or cause. We become blissfully self-unaware.
I was hungry and you fed me.
When were you hungry and we fed you?
To live the life of compassion is to live the life of love. It is to live the life of Christ.
When you give to the church, are you living out of charity or compassion? When you think about Joplin or Mozambique, does your response come from charity or compassion? May we not give or act out begrudgingly, but with joy, for God loves a cheerful giver.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
opportunities
From Evan Almighty. Scene where God is speaking with Evan’s wife.
“God: Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?”
God gives us opportunities each day. Today lets make the best of what comes our way.
Peace,
Lion’s Den Man
“God: Let me ask you something. If someone prays for patience, you think God gives them patience? Or does he give them the opportunity to be patient? If he prayed for courage, does God give him courage, or does he give him opportunities to be courageous? If someone prayed for the family to be closer, do you think God zaps them with warm fuzzy feelings, or does he give them opportunities to love each other?”
God gives us opportunities each day. Today lets make the best of what comes our way.
Peace,
Lion’s Den Man
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
your thing
Do you ever wonder what your thing is? I think about that stuff..maybe too much sometimes. The problem is "thinking to much" and not taking action....watching but not joining in...having good intentions but no follow through. A friend of mine has been distant from church for a while. Last Saturday, he and a few of his buddies drove to Joplin with chainsaws packed in the trunk of their car. It was cool to see how much he was looking forward to helping out. He was ready to become engaged again. Laboring for others is his thing so he acted..he followed an instinct.
A friend once told me, "Anyone and everyone who is not engaged is at the same place, one step away".
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
A friend once told me, "Anyone and everyone who is not engaged is at the same place, one step away".
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
can I buy that?
You have heard the stories. Someone shows up on your front door and asks to buy your home, sight unseen for double the value. This actually happened to someone that I know. A helicopter landed in the street in front of their house and someone offered them over a million dollars for their home. They sold their house and moved.
So I have this secret thought that one day someone is going to just randomly offer to buy something at twice the value. Come on, its a good story.
So last week I was wearing a Royals jersey. So many jerseys are time sensitive. They have colors that are out of date or a player's name that is no longer with the team. This jersey is just generic. Dark royal blue, no number, no name. It's cool. I like it.
So I am leaving a restaurant and this person comes up to me and wants to buy it. "How much for your jersey? I will buy it right now." I shook my head. They insisted. They would make me a good offer. I shook my head and walked away.
I don't know why, it only cost $35, but I don't think I would sell it for $200. I guess that there are just some things that you can't put a price on. There are some things that money just can't buy.
The one time in my life when someone wants to randomly buy something that I own and I turn them down. For some reason, I feel good about that. Money isn't everything.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
So I have this secret thought that one day someone is going to just randomly offer to buy something at twice the value. Come on, its a good story.
So last week I was wearing a Royals jersey. So many jerseys are time sensitive. They have colors that are out of date or a player's name that is no longer with the team. This jersey is just generic. Dark royal blue, no number, no name. It's cool. I like it.
So I am leaving a restaurant and this person comes up to me and wants to buy it. "How much for your jersey? I will buy it right now." I shook my head. They insisted. They would make me a good offer. I shook my head and walked away.
I don't know why, it only cost $35, but I don't think I would sell it for $200. I guess that there are just some things that you can't put a price on. There are some things that money just can't buy.
The one time in my life when someone wants to randomly buy something that I own and I turn them down. For some reason, I feel good about that. Money isn't everything.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, May 30, 2011
Aaron Brown
Yesterday in church I mentioned our friend, Aaron Brown who is the pastor of St. Paul's UMC in Joplin. Several have asked if his family was hurt in the tornado. Aaron and his family are fine and their home was not hit by the tornado. I am sure that he has worked non-stop since the storm hit. I know he has been awake late into the night helping people. The load on a pastor can be heavy at times, but the load on the pastors in Joplin right now has to be incredible. But Aaron is up to the task. He is one of the finest men that I know.
If you watched the Joplin Tornado Memorial service yesterday, there were three talks. They were given by President Obama, Governor Nixon and Aaron Brown. Not a surprise to me at all. His words were touching and perfect. Not a surprise. If you have not heard his message, it is well worth the time. You can view it at:: http://www.koamtv.com/category/164379/video?clipId=5899140&flvUri=&partnerclipid=&topVideoCatNo=212327&c=&autoStart=true&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat=flv
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
If you watched the Joplin Tornado Memorial service yesterday, there were three talks. They were given by President Obama, Governor Nixon and Aaron Brown. Not a surprise to me at all. His words were touching and perfect. Not a surprise. If you have not heard his message, it is well worth the time. You can view it at:: http://www.koamtv.com/category/164379/video?clipId=5899140&flvUri=&partnerclipid=&topVideoCatNo=212327&c=&autoStart=true&activePane=info&LaunchPageAdTag=homepage&clipFormat=flv
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
survivors guilt
Today as we prepare for worship services, I can't help but think of our friends in Joplin who have lost so much. Today, my friend Aaron Brown will be holding church in a gym nearby because St. Paul's UMC has been destroyed.
I feel so bad for them. But I know that in times of great need, grace rushes in. I know that today as they pray and share their stories, God will fill that gym in a very special way.
Please pray for our friends in Joplin and be willing to help as you are led by the Holy Spirit.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I feel so bad for them. But I know that in times of great need, grace rushes in. I know that today as they pray and share their stories, God will fill that gym in a very special way.
Please pray for our friends in Joplin and be willing to help as you are led by the Holy Spirit.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, May 28, 2011
for the first time
Are you bored? Life piling up? Everything seems mundane?
Stop and think of the first time that you did a thing. It was probably exciting to learn something new. You had patience with a problem because your store of energy was not exhausted. Maybe you touched a new moment and it was beautiful. But now, that is all gone, all lost, all mundane.
So decide in your mind that you will return to the first time. Remember the excitement. Remember the joy. Remember the newness. Do everything as if it were the first time. Suddenly, the thing seems better, the mundane now has life. Life is beautiful if we can just see it.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Stop and think of the first time that you did a thing. It was probably exciting to learn something new. You had patience with a problem because your store of energy was not exhausted. Maybe you touched a new moment and it was beautiful. But now, that is all gone, all lost, all mundane.
So decide in your mind that you will return to the first time. Remember the excitement. Remember the joy. Remember the newness. Do everything as if it were the first time. Suddenly, the thing seems better, the mundane now has life. Life is beautiful if we can just see it.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, May 27, 2011
to sum it up
In the weeks to come there will be much to say about Joplin. I have also not finished with my posts from the Jamaica dental trip, but I cant find the documents that I wrote in Jamaica now, so that will have to wait.
So, in the light of what has been going on in our world, I had a thought. Have you ever tried to sum up the Christian faith? or boil down the Christian faith? Here is my attempt for today.
When we see our friends hurt in Joplin, it should be clear to us that the Christian faith is all about living outside of one's self. Taking up the cross. Discomforting ourselves so that those in need might be helped.
When we choose to live like that it really is a beautiful day in god's world.
So, in the light of what has been going on in our world, I had a thought. Have you ever tried to sum up the Christian faith? or boil down the Christian faith? Here is my attempt for today.
The successful pursuit of the Christian faith does not lie in the saying of a special prayer; the acknowledgement of 4 spiritual laws or the mental assent to the leadership of Jesus.
Instead, the successful pursuit of the Christian faith is wrapped up in taking up ones cross; living outside ones self and investing in others to the glory of God.
When one lives like this, all prayers are said, all laws are followed and Jesus really has become Lord.
When one lives like this, all prayers are said, all laws are followed and Jesus really has become Lord.
When we see our friends hurt in Joplin, it should be clear to us that the Christian faith is all about living outside of one's self. Taking up the cross. Discomforting ourselves so that those in need might be helped.
When we choose to live like that it really is a beautiful day in god's world.
Thursday, May 26, 2011
compassion fatigue
Compassion fatigue is what sets in when good people get tired of helping others. It is like we have big hearts and we want to help, but after a while, a person has to return to their own life. It is like sometimes we only want to do enough to make us feel better, and give up way before the issues are resolved. We feel compassion fatigue when the demands of our normal life are begging us to return. We have a yard to mow, a hobby to catch up on, and interests to pursue.
I understand compassion fatigue. Sometimes I resemble it. But I have a question. Or two.
What if we have no life to return to. What if our life is no longer about "my life" vs the rest of the world. What if my life began to be centered around the entire world. What if the people in Joplin were all my cousins? What if the people in Mozambique were my brothers and sisters. What if I got to a point in my life where "my" resources diminished in importance and became expendable for the sake of my cousins, brothers and sisters. What if I was more invested in people than things. What if my greatest investment was in people.
What if my hobby became helping others. No, what if my full time job was being the good Samaritan. What if my life was centered around God's purpose rather than my own? This is starting to sound like missional living.
Is it possible that I would love others so much that my helping of them never became a burden. I was hungry and you fed me.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I understand compassion fatigue. Sometimes I resemble it. But I have a question. Or two.
What if we have no life to return to. What if our life is no longer about "my life" vs the rest of the world. What if my life began to be centered around the entire world. What if the people in Joplin were all my cousins? What if the people in Mozambique were my brothers and sisters. What if I got to a point in my life where "my" resources diminished in importance and became expendable for the sake of my cousins, brothers and sisters. What if I was more invested in people than things. What if my greatest investment was in people.
What if my hobby became helping others. No, what if my full time job was being the good Samaritan. What if my life was centered around God's purpose rather than my own? This is starting to sound like missional living.
Is it possible that I would love others so much that my helping of them never became a burden. I was hungry and you fed me.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
why
We witness a tragedy like the Joplin tornado and we ask why. Why God, why? Why did my mom get cancer. Why did my wife leave me. Why does my child hate me. Why do I have this condition. Why did I lose my house. Why did I lose my job. Why is my life such a struggle. Why. Why. You get the picture.
We have all been there. It is the human condition. There are also many proposed responses. Some get mad at God. Some hate him for ever. Some say that God makes such things happen. Some say that you deserved it, that somehow you did not have enough faith. Some blame a big opposite of God devil.
So why. Why did the tornado hit? Why are our friends suffering?
Here is my best shot at this as your pastor. Towards the end of the book of Job, Chapters 38-42 God reminds Job that people will never understand what happens in this world. Psalm 103 sums it up like this:
13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; 14 for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. 15 The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; 16 the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. 17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him
We are not in charge. This world will always bring us challenge. But God is not against us. God is with us. God is for us. God stands with us. These terrible things, as terrible as they are, can cause us to trust him. We have nothing else in this life. No promise of health, wealth or comfort. The only promise that we have is that our God is with us. His love in fills us.
May his love and grace comfort those who are suffering so.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
We have all been there. It is the human condition. There are also many proposed responses. Some get mad at God. Some hate him for ever. Some say that God makes such things happen. Some say that you deserved it, that somehow you did not have enough faith. Some blame a big opposite of God devil.
So why. Why did the tornado hit? Why are our friends suffering?
Here is my best shot at this as your pastor. Towards the end of the book of Job, Chapters 38-42 God reminds Job that people will never understand what happens in this world. Psalm 103 sums it up like this:
13 As a father has compassion on his children, so the LORD has compassion on those who fear him; 14 for he knows how we are formed, he remembers that we are dust. 15 The life of mortals is like grass, they flourish like a flower of the field; 16 the wind blows over it and it is gone, and its place remembers it no more. 17 But from everlasting to everlasting the LORD’s love is with those who fear him
We are not in charge. This world will always bring us challenge. But God is not against us. God is with us. God is for us. God stands with us. These terrible things, as terrible as they are, can cause us to trust him. We have nothing else in this life. No promise of health, wealth or comfort. The only promise that we have is that our God is with us. His love in fills us.
May his love and grace comfort those who are suffering so.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Joplin 2
Pastor Aaron Brown tells me that not only are many of the the homes of members destroyed, but the places where they work are also demolished.
Woods Chapel is collecting items for the relief effort. Bottled water, batteries, cleaning supplies and more. Please check our web site for more info at www.woodchaplechurch.org
Teams will be going very soon to work in the clean up effort. if you are interested in going, please contact stephanie mutert at stephaniem@woodschapelchurch.org
Count your blessings and keep our friends in Joplin in your prayers.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Joplin
Good morning. We have watched the news in horror today of the destruction in Joplin. Because this is a city that is close to us, many of us have personal connections there. One of my best pastor friends is Aaron Brown. He is the pastor at St. Paul's UMC. Last night he texted me to say that he and his family were ok, but that the church was badly damaged. Also, Sandy Nenadahl is the District Superintendent in Joplin. She went into ministry from our church. She and her husband Tom are fine, but there is much work for Methodists to do in Joplin.
Please keep the people of Joplin in your prayers. I am sure that we will be acting to help as soon as we get instructions on how to best do that. We will have more info on what we can do this Sunday in worship services.
Please keep the people of Joplin in your prayers. I am sure that we will be acting to help as soon as we get instructions on how to best do that. We will have more info on what we can do this Sunday in worship services.
Jamaica Thursday
Jamaican Thursday
Today I went to the Internet café again to communicate with home. So far, by the time that I get an email out, I am off the net and gone before I can hear from my family in real time. Since I was not really scheduled for any labor today, I spent a couple of hours learning the story and listening to one of the young men that is working with our group. It was very very valuable time. Later I did some painting and worked to repair some windows at the dorm.
There is a challenge taking place between some of the members of our team and the Jamaican cooks regarding how much money has been spent and how it has been accounted for. I have not been involved in this at all, but my hope is that we will not make an issue of this. We are still eating very reasonably, and in my brain, the relationship is more important than whether or not all the receipts add up.
Speaking of the kitchen, let’s talk about the food. The food has been simple, but good. The cooks are hired by the Methodist church to cook for us while mission teams are here. In fact, one of the cool things about having a team here is that the presence of the team provides direct income to at least nine people. Two cooks, two cleaners, two that run the clinic sign ups and three security men. Our presence provides these folks with income. That is cool. There is another 5 or so local people who make money by selling the teams snacks, drinks and crafts.
So the cooking. The cooks use local spices and food. Mangoes, Papaya, bananas, and bread fruit [yes, breadfruit is a fruit of somekind] are present at every mean in one form or another. I have a great story about bread fruit from the saga of the mutiny on the Bounty. [Ask Janet Barnes if she has heard it.] The food is mildly spicy. A distinct flavor that is nice and very Jamaican, but not too hot for us to eat. For breakfast we have had pancakes every day except one, in which we had fish and eggs. Lunch has been some interesting dishes like burritos and fried tacos. One day we had tuna and chicken salad sandwiches. For dinner we have had spaghetti [no meat, just sauce and noodles], fried chicken, fried fish, accompanied by mac and cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and some kind of cupcake.
The cooks and the security men always eat with us. Which is fine of course. I would say with a pretty confident tone that they eat much better than normal when there is a team in to work at the clinic. Several locals have stopped by from time to time to ask if they can eat.
If you have food on your table, that is something to be thankful for.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Today I went to the Internet café again to communicate with home. So far, by the time that I get an email out, I am off the net and gone before I can hear from my family in real time. Since I was not really scheduled for any labor today, I spent a couple of hours learning the story and listening to one of the young men that is working with our group. It was very very valuable time. Later I did some painting and worked to repair some windows at the dorm.
There is a challenge taking place between some of the members of our team and the Jamaican cooks regarding how much money has been spent and how it has been accounted for. I have not been involved in this at all, but my hope is that we will not make an issue of this. We are still eating very reasonably, and in my brain, the relationship is more important than whether or not all the receipts add up.
Speaking of the kitchen, let’s talk about the food. The food has been simple, but good. The cooks are hired by the Methodist church to cook for us while mission teams are here. In fact, one of the cool things about having a team here is that the presence of the team provides direct income to at least nine people. Two cooks, two cleaners, two that run the clinic sign ups and three security men. Our presence provides these folks with income. That is cool. There is another 5 or so local people who make money by selling the teams snacks, drinks and crafts.
So the cooking. The cooks use local spices and food. Mangoes, Papaya, bananas, and bread fruit [yes, breadfruit is a fruit of somekind] are present at every mean in one form or another. I have a great story about bread fruit from the saga of the mutiny on the Bounty. [Ask Janet Barnes if she has heard it.] The food is mildly spicy. A distinct flavor that is nice and very Jamaican, but not too hot for us to eat. For breakfast we have had pancakes every day except one, in which we had fish and eggs. Lunch has been some interesting dishes like burritos and fried tacos. One day we had tuna and chicken salad sandwiches. For dinner we have had spaghetti [no meat, just sauce and noodles], fried chicken, fried fish, accompanied by mac and cheese, tomatoes, lettuce and some kind of cupcake.
The cooks and the security men always eat with us. Which is fine of course. I would say with a pretty confident tone that they eat much better than normal when there is a team in to work at the clinic. Several locals have stopped by from time to time to ask if they can eat.
If you have food on your table, that is something to be thankful for.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
this is the day
This is the day which the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. The world did not end. We are still here. [unless maybe I wrote this last week and scheduled it to post this morning!] Just kidding! We are still here! Another day to care. Another day to love. Let's do it.
This is the great joy in life. To live and to love. Let's do it. Let's do it!!!
Thank you God for this day!
It's a beautiful day in God's world be sure to see the good.
This is the great joy in life. To live and to love. Let's do it. Let's do it!!!
Thank you God for this day!
It's a beautiful day in God's world be sure to see the good.
Saturday, May 21, 2011
will the world end today
Well, it has been all over the news. Will the world end today? Will the rapture [we will talk about this late coming, biblically unsupported concept another time] anyway, will it happen today? So is the prediction of Harold Camping, a minister in California. 6pm tonight, pst which gives us until 8pm.
Ironically there are companies jumping up to cash in on this foolishness. One company will provide eternal security for your dog. You leave in the rapture, they come take care of your dog. All their employees are atheists. $135 is the contract fee. They have sold over 20,000 contracts.
Now friends, I don't mean to make fun of this stuff, but I have lived through many of these. My first real disappointment was in the 1970's when Hal Lindsey's predictions did not come true.
Here is my bottom line. Jesus wants us to live in the here and now. That is scriptural and that is spiritual. Feet on the ground spiritual. To be all lost in end time worry is a waste of time and a huge distraction. It is off mission for the Christian.
I have a book in my office called, "it's the end times again." The book chronicles all of the predictions over the years that have not come true. We will have to add this to the list.
What are you going to be doing at 8pm? I hope something fun, celebrating God's world. We will be open for business as usual tomorrow, so I will see you in church.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Ironically there are companies jumping up to cash in on this foolishness. One company will provide eternal security for your dog. You leave in the rapture, they come take care of your dog. All their employees are atheists. $135 is the contract fee. They have sold over 20,000 contracts.
Now friends, I don't mean to make fun of this stuff, but I have lived through many of these. My first real disappointment was in the 1970's when Hal Lindsey's predictions did not come true.
Here is my bottom line. Jesus wants us to live in the here and now. That is scriptural and that is spiritual. Feet on the ground spiritual. To be all lost in end time worry is a waste of time and a huge distraction. It is off mission for the Christian.
I have a book in my office called, "it's the end times again." The book chronicles all of the predictions over the years that have not come true. We will have to add this to the list.
What are you going to be doing at 8pm? I hope something fun, celebrating God's world. We will be open for business as usual tomorrow, so I will see you in church.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Jamaican Wednesday
Wednesday morning
Bugs. I awoke today to the joy of little bugs. They look like tiny ants, but when you go to squish them, they take off running. They know you are a predator and they start to flit around like water skeeters that know the bass are in the neighborhood.
I also awoke to an interesting phenomenon. One of the emails that I read yesterday was from a member who asked me to call them about a problem. Well I cannot call, but I told them by email that I would be praying for them and that I would call as soon as I got back to the states. Anyway, the interesting phenomenon, and I am sure it has happened to you, is that when I woke up this morning, they were on my mind. I was praying for them in my sleep. Wow. The human body is such a miracle. Our brains work at night and the spirit is at work when my conscious mind is at rest. Amazing.
Today I helped in tooth extraction, cavity filling, and painted a few doors. I also spent a good part of the day visiting with the pastor of the Falmouth Methodist Church. Her name is Verona Irons. She has been a minister for six years. She has four churches on her circuit, with the Falmouth church being the largest. She has a joy on her face as she talks about her congregation and her call to ministry. Some things are the same in every culture. Good pastors love their people. She is very proud of the ministry of their church to the community through the clinic that we are working at this week. Many teams come during the year and people come from all over to receive medical and dental care. In addition to the work of the teams in sharing God’s love, there are always several people there from the church that help to care for and connect with the people that come to the clinic.
One of the things that stood out the most in our visit was the problem that they are having in Jamaica with suicide. The rates among young people and police officers are very high. Almost every week there is a funeral in one of the churches for someone who has taken their life. She attributes this to the bleak economic conditions for the young people and the stress placed on the police. With the economy of the states in decline, many of the hotels here have been laying people off. Some have even closed. People that come here on cruise ships don’t spend very much money either. So there is much economic hardship and much despair. As in all cultures, there is a need to teach people that life is good. That no matter what the circumstances, there is always hope. Life is good, life is worth living.
I am going to take a break from Jamaica for a couple of days to deal with the end of the world. More on the mission trip next week.
It is a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Bugs. I awoke today to the joy of little bugs. They look like tiny ants, but when you go to squish them, they take off running. They know you are a predator and they start to flit around like water skeeters that know the bass are in the neighborhood.
I also awoke to an interesting phenomenon. One of the emails that I read yesterday was from a member who asked me to call them about a problem. Well I cannot call, but I told them by email that I would be praying for them and that I would call as soon as I got back to the states. Anyway, the interesting phenomenon, and I am sure it has happened to you, is that when I woke up this morning, they were on my mind. I was praying for them in my sleep. Wow. The human body is such a miracle. Our brains work at night and the spirit is at work when my conscious mind is at rest. Amazing.
Today I helped in tooth extraction, cavity filling, and painted a few doors. I also spent a good part of the day visiting with the pastor of the Falmouth Methodist Church. Her name is Verona Irons. She has been a minister for six years. She has four churches on her circuit, with the Falmouth church being the largest. She has a joy on her face as she talks about her congregation and her call to ministry. Some things are the same in every culture. Good pastors love their people. She is very proud of the ministry of their church to the community through the clinic that we are working at this week. Many teams come during the year and people come from all over to receive medical and dental care. In addition to the work of the teams in sharing God’s love, there are always several people there from the church that help to care for and connect with the people that come to the clinic.
One of the things that stood out the most in our visit was the problem that they are having in Jamaica with suicide. The rates among young people and police officers are very high. Almost every week there is a funeral in one of the churches for someone who has taken their life. She attributes this to the bleak economic conditions for the young people and the stress placed on the police. With the economy of the states in decline, many of the hotels here have been laying people off. Some have even closed. People that come here on cruise ships don’t spend very much money either. So there is much economic hardship and much despair. As in all cultures, there is a need to teach people that life is good. That no matter what the circumstances, there is always hope. Life is good, life is worth living.
I am going to take a break from Jamaica for a couple of days to deal with the end of the world. More on the mission trip next week.
It is a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
mission trip Tuesday
Jamaican Tuesday
It is important if you come on this trip that you are resilient and flexible. The Jamaican people are very laid back and you need to be ready to roll with the changes and always take it easy. It is a cultural thing that we Americans are not very good at.
Today, none of the jobs planned for us panned out. So we took stock of our situation and decided to do some painting in the dorm. Brushes, paint, and thinner. Sticks to stir the paint, you must find on the ground. We spent the rest of the day painting interior doors and jams.
Before dinner we walked four blocks to the internet café where I spent 30 minutes on the web. I was able to access my computer at work and catch up on some email. When I was done I asked how much I owed them. The answer was $100. I stopped dead in my tracks. How much? One hundred dollars. One hundred dollars Jamaican. Oh, ahh, yes. Thank you. That is $1.25 US dollars.
Dinner was great. Chicken and rice. After dinner we had a wonderful talk amonst the team about life, families and the church. One of the great benefits to taking such a trip is that you get to know the other people on the team very well.
It’s a beautiful day in God’s world, be sure to see the good.
It is important if you come on this trip that you are resilient and flexible. The Jamaican people are very laid back and you need to be ready to roll with the changes and always take it easy. It is a cultural thing that we Americans are not very good at.
Today, none of the jobs planned for us panned out. So we took stock of our situation and decided to do some painting in the dorm. Brushes, paint, and thinner. Sticks to stir the paint, you must find on the ground. We spent the rest of the day painting interior doors and jams.
Before dinner we walked four blocks to the internet café where I spent 30 minutes on the web. I was able to access my computer at work and catch up on some email. When I was done I asked how much I owed them. The answer was $100. I stopped dead in my tracks. How much? One hundred dollars. One hundred dollars Jamaican. Oh, ahh, yes. Thank you. That is $1.25 US dollars.
Dinner was great. Chicken and rice. After dinner we had a wonderful talk amonst the team about life, families and the church. One of the great benefits to taking such a trip is that you get to know the other people on the team very well.
It’s a beautiful day in God’s world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
extraction
Extraction
Caution- this was a dental trip and the following is not for the feint of heart.
On my first day in Jamaica I assisted with a patient. The patient was 35 years old, but looked 18. The person I was assisting explained the patients situation. We would be working on the bottom only. On the bottom row of teeth, we had 1 completely rotten tooth- it will be difficult to get a grip on to pull it out. Two next to it are almost as bad with decay down to the gum line. On the other side there are two more with visible cavities. Up front the two small teeth up front have tartar that has calcified between them and pushed the teeth apart. The calcification has grown so much that it looks like a bridge between the teeth. When this is removed, the teeth will be so weak that they will have to come out.
I witness the removal of the first tooth. I spray on the water and use the little hose to draw out the water. The two up front come out next and it is pretty gruesome. There are several pieces of the calcified tartar that have to be picked out of the surrounding tissue. After that, some of the surrounding tissue is so infected that it has to come out. So we scrape and remove. Finally when the wounds- the holes where the teeth were look clean, they each get a stitch.
I was very proud of this young woman who endured all of this. The clinic is only supposed to pull one tooth per person so that more patients can be seen, but our team is not comfortable leaving these really bad teeth in.
I am sorry if this left you squeamish. That would make two of us. There are a couple of morals to this story. First, the mission here is very important, providing very needed care to some of God’s people. Second, we should be thankful that we live in a part of the country that for the most part does not see such rampant dental issues. Thirdly, if you haven’t been for a while, go see the dentist. I now know what happens when you don’t. it isn’t pretty.
It’s a beautiful day in God’s world, be sure to see the good.
Caution- this was a dental trip and the following is not for the feint of heart.
On my first day in Jamaica I assisted with a patient. The patient was 35 years old, but looked 18. The person I was assisting explained the patients situation. We would be working on the bottom only. On the bottom row of teeth, we had 1 completely rotten tooth- it will be difficult to get a grip on to pull it out. Two next to it are almost as bad with decay down to the gum line. On the other side there are two more with visible cavities. Up front the two small teeth up front have tartar that has calcified between them and pushed the teeth apart. The calcification has grown so much that it looks like a bridge between the teeth. When this is removed, the teeth will be so weak that they will have to come out.
I was very proud of this young woman who endured all of this. The clinic is only supposed to pull one tooth per person so that more patients can be seen, but our team is not comfortable leaving these really bad teeth in.
I am sorry if this left you squeamish. That would make two of us. There are a couple of morals to this story. First, the mission here is very important, providing very needed care to some of God’s people. Second, we should be thankful that we live in a part of the country that for the most part does not see such rampant dental issues. Thirdly, if you haven’t been for a while, go see the dentist. I now know what happens when you don’t. it isn’t pretty.
It’s a beautiful day in God’s world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Jamaican nights
Jamaican nights
There really is nothing for the team to do at night, so after dinner, a few talk or hang out for a while, but in short order everyone showers and goes to bed. It is hot and humid here and the dorms are not air conditioned. Windows are open and each room has a box fan. It takes a while for me to go to sleep. [I have attached a picture of the dorm to this post.] There are many people out in the streets and sometimes you can hear them talking and laughing. There is also that occaisional smell of Bob Marley’s favorite past time.
The worst thing about the night were the barking dogs.
In Jamaica there are lots of dogs. No cats, but lots of dogs. They are of no particular breed, and it appears that they have to fend for themselves. No dog tags, few owners are present with the dogs who appear to be wild roaming hobos. They wander the streets and appear to have a slight fear of humans. They are not spayed or neutered, so there is no rest for dogs, no retirement. Even the oldest and ugliest looking of dogs are having pups. The dog population appears to be even more desperate than the people here. And so back to the night. They bark. Dogs bark. All night.
I-pods are your friend. The music of home mixes with the music of the fan and you sleep. Off and on, until you wake and our Father gives us another day.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
There really is nothing for the team to do at night, so after dinner, a few talk or hang out for a while, but in short order everyone showers and goes to bed. It is hot and humid here and the dorms are not air conditioned. Windows are open and each room has a box fan. It takes a while for me to go to sleep. [I have attached a picture of the dorm to this post.] There are many people out in the streets and sometimes you can hear them talking and laughing. There is also that occaisional smell of Bob Marley’s favorite past time.
The worst thing about the night were the barking dogs.
In Jamaica there are lots of dogs. No cats, but lots of dogs. They are of no particular breed, and it appears that they have to fend for themselves. No dog tags, few owners are present with the dogs who appear to be wild roaming hobos. They wander the streets and appear to have a slight fear of humans. They are not spayed or neutered, so there is no rest for dogs, no retirement. Even the oldest and ugliest looking of dogs are having pups. The dog population appears to be even more desperate than the people here. And so back to the night. They bark. Dogs bark. All night.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, May 16, 2011
dental trip to Jamaica, day 1
The mission trip begins.And the mission trip begins on the airplane. The challenge to your faith. The moments when you wonder why you were doing this, begin before you ever land in your destination. People in the worng seats refuse to move. Crying babies. Raw nerves. You get to the airport and you have to lug giant suitcases full of supplies for the mission, miles, to catch a shuttle bus to the hotel where you have to spend the night because they cant get you to your destination until tomorrow.
Falmouth Jamaica. The Methodist church sits on a lot near down town. Behind it is a dorm for those who come here to help in their clinic. Their main outreach to the community is thru the mehtodist clinic which is two blocks away. The clinic was build by Methodists from Missouri twenty years ago. It is only open when teams come from churches like ours.
We used to send one team. Now we send four. I wish we could keep the clinic open longer. Today I met several of the fine Methodist people, and I assisted with three tooth extractions. I did it all. I saw it all, and let me tell you, there is a huge need for dental care in Falmouth.
For more info on the town - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Falmouth,_Jamaica
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
home from the mission trip
Last night I got home from the Jamaican dental mission trip at 730pm. Finished the sermon and went to bed. Thank you to my long time friend, Lions Den man, for posting while I was gone. This week I will be posting an account of the trip log, day by day. It will give you a very different view of Jamaica than what we see on the television ads.
Today as you prepare to come to worship, I want to tell you about something I read. It reminded me that God is everywhere. At every church, in every field, everywhere. When we don't recognize him, it is usually because we are focused on our own problems, our own issues, our own stuff.
God is at Woods Chapel today. Come to worship and focus on Him. Hear God's words of love and encouragement. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth, well they grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Today as you prepare to come to worship, I want to tell you about something I read. It reminded me that God is everywhere. At every church, in every field, everywhere. When we don't recognize him, it is usually because we are focused on our own problems, our own issues, our own stuff.
God is at Woods Chapel today. Come to worship and focus on Him. Hear God's words of love and encouragement. Turn your eyes upon Jesus. Look full in his wonderful face. And the things of earth, well they grow strangely dim, in the light of his glory and grace.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
trust
yesterday a friend shared some thoughts. thoughts he wouldn't have shared a year or so ago. a year or so ago trust was not in the mix. that is easy to understand. it takes time to feel someone will use what they know about you to help you and not destroy you. some of us spend a lot of time making sure people see us as they want to see us and not how we truly are. trust is a sign of growth. trust requires an inner strength and belief in something bigger than ourselves.
Brennan Manning wrote, "Perhaps the supreme achievement of the Holy Spirit in the life of the ragamuffins (the broken) is the miraculous movement from self-rejection to self-acceptance."
Jeff returns home today and will be in service on Sunday.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Brennan Manning wrote, "Perhaps the supreme achievement of the Holy Spirit in the life of the ragamuffins (the broken) is the miraculous movement from self-rejection to self-acceptance."
Jeff returns home today and will be in service on Sunday.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Friday, May 13, 2011
hectic
My days are pretty full right now. I am not real open to interruptions to my daily plan or to invitations to do something else even if that thing may be a very good thing and one I should consider....neither of which is good.
I have a friend in the same boat who I compare, in a jokingly way, my to do list with. Both our plates are full...we say we need bigger plates, a better schedule or game plan, and we find ourselves sleeping less to make more hours available to get things done.
Crazy how life gets at times. Sometimes it is just the way it is and sometimes the craziness is self inflicted. Before you know it the day is over the week has gone it is summer not spring and so on.
Brian Swanson did a great sermon on this years ago. I call it his "Executive Day Planner" sermon. In it he speaks about all the good he has planned for the day and his plan to make sure it happens, but his determination and focus on his plan makes him blind to what God places before him throughout the day. Needless to say it has stuck with me ever since. If you missed it maybe we can get him to give it again.
Point is... I shouldn't schedule or make time to "smell the roses". I should just slow down and leave time to do so. Prayer helps me do that. It slows me down, puts my life on hold for a little while and then gets it back on track. This takes me back to yesterdays post....It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good...and while you're at it maybe slow down and take the time to thank Him for it as well.
BTW...Jeff will be back at WCC Sunday
Now the funny thing about this post is I woke up early today to write it so I could move on my "plan" for the day only to discover Blogger was under repairs today....hence the late post. Yesterday's post was deleted during the repair time so I posted it again. As Forest says, "It happens".
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
I have a friend in the same boat who I compare, in a jokingly way, my to do list with. Both our plates are full...we say we need bigger plates, a better schedule or game plan, and we find ourselves sleeping less to make more hours available to get things done.
Crazy how life gets at times. Sometimes it is just the way it is and sometimes the craziness is self inflicted. Before you know it the day is over the week has gone it is summer not spring and so on.
Brian Swanson did a great sermon on this years ago. I call it his "Executive Day Planner" sermon. In it he speaks about all the good he has planned for the day and his plan to make sure it happens, but his determination and focus on his plan makes him blind to what God places before him throughout the day. Needless to say it has stuck with me ever since. If you missed it maybe we can get him to give it again.
Point is... I shouldn't schedule or make time to "smell the roses". I should just slow down and leave time to do so. Prayer helps me do that. It slows me down, puts my life on hold for a little while and then gets it back on track. This takes me back to yesterdays post....It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good...and while you're at it maybe slow down and take the time to thank Him for it as well.
BTW...Jeff will be back at WCC Sunday
Now the funny thing about this post is I woke up early today to write it so I could move on my "plan" for the day only to discover Blogger was under repairs today....hence the late post. Yesterday's post was deleted during the repair time so I posted it again. As Forest says, "It happens".
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Thursday, May 12, 2011
closing statement
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
lets think about that statement. is there a day in God's world that isn't beautiful?
is there good in each day? what happens when we focus on the bad and don't take time to see the good? where does that take you/me? what if our focus is always on the concerns and never on the joys? how does that type of persistent thinking work in God's beautiful day? how does it work on you? where does it focus our attention?
Originally Posted: 12 May 2011 04:18 AM PDT
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
lets think about that statement. is there a day in God's world that isn't beautiful?
is there good in each day? what happens when we focus on the bad and don't take time to see the good? where does that take you/me? what if our focus is always on the concerns and never on the joys? how does that type of persistent thinking work in God's beautiful day? how does it work on you? where does it focus our attention?
Originally Posted: 12 May 2011 04:18 AM PDT
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
back to Sunday
I just went back to read the post Jeff made on Sunday about how worry interferes in our lives. The same message was presented in a different fashion yesterday at the Men's Gathering. I started thinking about how my worry is about the less important things versus the things that are important (family, friends, relationships, etc.) and how worry has that ability to separate me from those important things. Worry changes my outlook on life and eventually separates me from the important things. Before I know it, the stress worry has brought me is now spilling over and onto the important things and I can see how it affects their lives...not good...not healthy...they don't need that...nor do I. No wonder Christ spoke of it the way he did. There is no benefit...no good that can come from it. So, as Jeff suggests, I will work towards letting all the stuff fall away. Let it go. Let love rise to the top. And, make sure the important things stay important.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
blink
that's how it happens. blink and it is no longer 1993 but 2011. blink and she is no longer a baby in your arms but a full grown woman ready to move on from high school to the next adventure. Many have been down this road before me and many will follow. Most everyone before me has said close to the same thing in one fashion or another....it happens fast...they grow up quick...don't miss it....enjoy it while you can....
All great words of wisdom spoken from the heart of those who have been there. I wish I could say my mind was always open to wisdom. So much can be learned when we take the time to listen, observe and learn from others who have traveled the road before us. In many ways I have been preparing for this time for a long time. So now that the time has come I have very few regrets and many good memories. I wish I could say that about other wise things people have shared with me.
So what do you do with that...you tell others...you share...you encourage them to do this and not that and you hope they listen because many things in life happen in a blink...marriages...kids....friendships.... jobs...life..
If we aren't actively engaged in the present there will be many regrets in the future...someone told me that too.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
All great words of wisdom spoken from the heart of those who have been there. I wish I could say my mind was always open to wisdom. So much can be learned when we take the time to listen, observe and learn from others who have traveled the road before us. In many ways I have been preparing for this time for a long time. So now that the time has come I have very few regrets and many good memories. I wish I could say that about other wise things people have shared with me.
So what do you do with that...you tell others...you share...you encourage them to do this and not that and you hope they listen because many things in life happen in a blink...marriages...kids....friendships.... jobs...life..
If we aren't actively engaged in the present there will be many regrets in the future...someone told me that too.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Monday, May 9, 2011
practice what you preach
I think our actions can tell a story about who we are...what we believe...what is important to us...and what we feel should be of importance and priority. You know the expression and it is true...talk is cheap,actions speak louder than words. Here are a few excerpts from blog posts Jeff has written. You have heard many of them in his sermons and in conversations you may have had with him, as well.
Methodists historically are mission minded. "No one is saved by good works, but no one will be saved without them" - John Wesley. The Christian life is to be lived, not talked about. We are here to give ourselves away in the name of Jesus.
Missions isn't something that we do. It should be something that we are.
We don't live our lives and then take a break to be in mission. If you are a Christian, all of your life is a mission. It's not that we are being good when we act in mission. All of our life is to be a mission
It is important for all of us to be connected to something in missions. If we aren't connected in missions in some way, it is just too easy to start thinking that the world is really revolving around me. To be in mission is to see the needs of others. It helps us keep our lives in perspective. It allows us to become the hands and feet of Christ. If you have a free morning or evening sometime, pick one of our missions and go see what they are doing. You will be glad that you did.
This post isn't just about Jeff or WCC it is about all of us who believe...
Jeff is off this week to Jamaica with other missionaries. Please keep them in your prayers.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Methodists historically are mission minded. "No one is saved by good works, but no one will be saved without them" - John Wesley. The Christian life is to be lived, not talked about. We are here to give ourselves away in the name of Jesus.
Missions isn't something that we do. It should be something that we are.
We don't live our lives and then take a break to be in mission. If you are a Christian, all of your life is a mission. It's not that we are being good when we act in mission. All of our life is to be a mission
It is important for all of us to be connected to something in missions. If we aren't connected in missions in some way, it is just too easy to start thinking that the world is really revolving around me. To be in mission is to see the needs of others. It helps us keep our lives in perspective. It allows us to become the hands and feet of Christ. If you have a free morning or evening sometime, pick one of our missions and go see what they are doing. You will be glad that you did.
This post isn't just about Jeff or WCC it is about all of us who believe...
Jeff is off this week to Jamaica with other missionaries. Please keep them in your prayers.
Peace,
Lion's Den Man
Sunday, May 8, 2011
when it all falls away
Our minds are so full of worry. So upset about so many things. Concerned about money, things and people. Worried about situations, circumstances and tomorrow. Even though Jesus told us not to worry, we spend way too much time doing it.
Have you noticed this? I have noticed something lately. Worry gets in the way of love. When I am worried, I am focused on the object of worry. I am concerned with myself. Love is covered up with the junk of life.
When I stop worrying about things, love rises to the top. When I let go of the things that are on my mind, or just decide to relax, love appears. Like it has always been there, just waiting for me to let go of the other things. I can feel it now as I write this, how love rises to fill our hearts and minds when we stop worrying.
Let all the stuff fall away. We can't add an hour to our life by worrying anyway. Let it go. Let love rise to the top. It is right there, waiting for the chance.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Have you noticed this? I have noticed something lately. Worry gets in the way of love. When I am worried, I am focused on the object of worry. I am concerned with myself. Love is covered up with the junk of life.
When I stop worrying about things, love rises to the top. When I let go of the things that are on my mind, or just decide to relax, love appears. Like it has always been there, just waiting for me to let go of the other things. I can feel it now as I write this, how love rises to fill our hearts and minds when we stop worrying.
Let all the stuff fall away. We can't add an hour to our life by worrying anyway. Let it go. Let love rise to the top. It is right there, waiting for the chance.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
pretty exciting
Rejoice with me! Today, my second child, Jennifer, graduates from CMSU - Central Missouri State University [Warrensburg] with a degree in Bio-medical research. She hopes to work in a lab or in clinical research.
I can not explain how excited we are! In my entire life, there may be no greater joy than to help a child grow up and get a college degree. I am one proud papa!
She joins her sister Allison, who graduated in December with a BS in Nursing. Alli is a nurse at St Luke's East.
Now if little sister can just land a job.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I can not explain how excited we are! In my entire life, there may be no greater joy than to help a child grow up and get a college degree. I am one proud papa!
She joins her sister Allison, who graduated in December with a BS in Nursing. Alli is a nurse at St Luke's East.
Now if little sister can just land a job.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, May 6, 2011
culture
Culture. We all have one. Cars, habits, homes, schools, sports, clothes, holidays. What are the things that we call important? Should a Christian engage fully in our culture, or should a christian hold back and keep themselves separate from culture?
Jesus clearly did both. He attended weddings and was a welcome sight there. He hung with sinners. But he also resisted the corruption of the political and religious leaders. He stayed on mission.
If we would win the people in our community, we have to live in and enter into this culture. But are there ways that this culture damages our children and our lives? What are they? How do you choose to interface with those things that draw you away from Christ and take you off mission?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Jesus clearly did both. He attended weddings and was a welcome sight there. He hung with sinners. But he also resisted the corruption of the political and religious leaders. He stayed on mission.
If we would win the people in our community, we have to live in and enter into this culture. But are there ways that this culture damages our children and our lives? What are they? How do you choose to interface with those things that draw you away from Christ and take you off mission?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, May 5, 2011
statistics
Last week I was at a seminar for the pastors of the 100 largest Methodist Churches in the country. We barely qualify to be on the list. It is a very good group to hang out with, because I learn a lot from the other pastors in the group.
Some interesting statistics were presented at the meeting. Each year, the United Methodist Church loses about 50,000 in worship attendance each year. In another 40 years, if we don't stop the trend, there will be no United Methodist's left. Out of 32,000 United Methodist churches in America, only 4,500 of them are growing.
These numbers tell me that it is very important that our church continue to work hard to pursue our mission of connecting people to Jesus Christ. I hope that you understand how important it is for every single person at our church to be engaged in caring for, and reaching out to others in the name of the Lord.
You are a great church, keep up the good work.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Some interesting statistics were presented at the meeting. Each year, the United Methodist Church loses about 50,000 in worship attendance each year. In another 40 years, if we don't stop the trend, there will be no United Methodist's left. Out of 32,000 United Methodist churches in America, only 4,500 of them are growing.
These numbers tell me that it is very important that our church continue to work hard to pursue our mission of connecting people to Jesus Christ. I hope that you understand how important it is for every single person at our church to be engaged in caring for, and reaching out to others in the name of the Lord.
You are a great church, keep up the good work.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, May 4, 2011
a guest posting
I have a dear friend, Hubert Neth. He is a retired United Methodist Minister. When I arrived in Princeton, MO as the new pastor in 1991, I found that he was still the favorite pastor there, 20 years after he had moved on.
He is bright and fresh and brilliant. He has a way of talking about his faith that draws people in. I have learned so much from his total transparency in his preaching. We meet every month just so that I can get a little smarter.
Today, I share a poem that he wrote. Enjoy.
where will
the executed
carpenters boy
linger after
powerful
attempts
to seal
his fate?
look for him
where folks
work hard
to earn
their bread
or find no job.
look for him
in little churches
down gravel roads
or in central cities
surrounded by
foreclosed homes.
look for him
in the stress
vacant stares
of suburban shoppers
hypnotized by hurry
oblivious to
beating hearts
in checkout lines
around them.
look for him
in old town bars
where barbeques
aroma
and slaw
from a fathers
recipe
offer communion
to the lonely.
look for him
in quiet laboratories
where the search
is constant
to discover
diseases cure,
where grief visits
a new grave
at foggy dawn
or a brain injured
soldier returns
from multiple
deployments
and cant find
medical care
amidst slogans
spouting support
the troops.
look for him
in blood stained
emergency rooms
following another
saturday shooting
in religious hypermarts
scattering consumer gods.
look for him
where new grass
laughs up through
concrete cracks,
in rebels fighting
to breathe free.
wherever people
sacrifice for
others they love
or dont even know
he is not impressed
by praise of crowds
acclaims of his
goodness
he will descend
to reach us
in some hell
and will not
leave until
the room
is empty
h.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
He is bright and fresh and brilliant. He has a way of talking about his faith that draws people in. I have learned so much from his total transparency in his preaching. We meet every month just so that I can get a little smarter.
Today, I share a poem that he wrote. Enjoy.
where will
the executed
carpenters boy
linger after
powerful
attempts
to seal
his fate?
look for him
where folks
work hard
to earn
their bread
or find no job.
look for him
in little churches
down gravel roads
or in central cities
surrounded by
foreclosed homes.
look for him
in the stress
vacant stares
of suburban shoppers
hypnotized by hurry
oblivious to
beating hearts
in checkout lines
around them.
look for him
in old town bars
where barbeques
aroma
and slaw
from a fathers
recipe
offer communion
to the lonely.
look for him
in quiet laboratories
where the search
is constant
to discover
diseases cure,
where grief visits
a new grave
at foggy dawn
or a brain injured
soldier returns
from multiple
deployments
and cant find
medical care
amidst slogans
spouting support
the troops.
look for him
in blood stained
emergency rooms
following another
saturday shooting
in religious hypermarts
scattering consumer gods.
look for him
where new grass
laughs up through
concrete cracks,
in rebels fighting
to breathe free.
wherever people
sacrifice for
others they love
or dont even know
he is not impressed
by praise of crowds
acclaims of his
goodness
he will descend
to reach us
in some hell
and will not
leave until
the room
is empty
h.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
a direct line
The other day, east bound I-70 was closed. My daughters had been in the Plaza area and heard the news on the radio. They called me to see if it was true [like I would know]. I happened to be sitting in front of the computer. I asked them to hold the line. I went on the web to Channel 9's website and saw that yes, it was true, east bound I-70 was closed at Sterling. They asked me how they should come home. I asked them were they were. On Van Brunt by the VA hospital.
I switched over to mapquest. I scrolled in on that part of town. I told them to turn right off of Van Brunt onto 31st and it will turn into 40 highway. That is all I needed to say because they can find their way home from there.
Now, prayer is great, but don't you wish sometimes you could get that specific and clear of instructions? Dear God, what is going on?
Well son, its like this.
Well God, how do I get there?
Well son, take this turn, follow this road and it will take you back to framiliar territory.
Ok, thanks. You are the best.
I guess we have to take joy in the fact that part of our relationship with God involves discernment and trust. Sometimes you know what is going on. Sometimes you think you know what is going on, but don't. The rest of the time, we pray, we think, and we exercise our free will trusting that God walks with us and celebrates our life with us.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I switched over to mapquest. I scrolled in on that part of town. I told them to turn right off of Van Brunt onto 31st and it will turn into 40 highway. That is all I needed to say because they can find their way home from there.
Now, prayer is great, but don't you wish sometimes you could get that specific and clear of instructions? Dear God, what is going on?
Well son, its like this.
Well God, how do I get there?
Well son, take this turn, follow this road and it will take you back to framiliar territory.
Ok, thanks. You are the best.
I guess we have to take joy in the fact that part of our relationship with God involves discernment and trust. Sometimes you know what is going on. Sometimes you think you know what is going on, but don't. The rest of the time, we pray, we think, and we exercise our free will trusting that God walks with us and celebrates our life with us.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Usama
I awake this day with mixed feelings at the news of the death of Usama Bin Laden. Gosh we finally got this guy. What a murderous fool. Man I don't understand his hatred. I am glad that he is gone. What will God do with someone like that? It is a great day for America.
I also feel sad that people hate each other. I feel bad for the conflict that has surrounded this man. I wish his death would put an end to the violence, but we did not kill Bonnie and Clyde. There are many more people that hate Americans.
So can I thank God that he is gone? Sure I think we can. But I am also praying for a better day. A day when our children and our children's children can live in this world in peace. When all will come to know the love of Jesus Christ.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I also feel sad that people hate each other. I feel bad for the conflict that has surrounded this man. I wish his death would put an end to the violence, but we did not kill Bonnie and Clyde. There are many more people that hate Americans.
So can I thank God that he is gone? Sure I think we can. But I am also praying for a better day. A day when our children and our children's children can live in this world in peace. When all will come to know the love of Jesus Christ.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
credit
Human nature wants the credit. It wants to be lifted up. It wants the attention. We compete with others sometimes for attention, disliking them simply because they seem to be loved more than we. Are we that broken?
I don't think Jesus wanted the attention. He just kept doing what he was supposed to do, and he pointed people to God.
I actually think that people are repelled when you demand their attention. When you demand the credit. When you make something all about you. And conversely, it seems to me that people are drawn to those who are willing to lift up others and allow them to be in the limelight. It seems like such a Jesus thing to do.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I don't think Jesus wanted the attention. He just kept doing what he was supposed to do, and he pointed people to God.
I actually think that people are repelled when you demand their attention. When you demand the credit. When you make something all about you. And conversely, it seems to me that people are drawn to those who are willing to lift up others and allow them to be in the limelight. It seems like such a Jesus thing to do.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, April 30, 2011
city council
I talked to a large church pastor the other day who told me that he has been elected to the city council in his town. He says that one of the unintended bi products of this election, is that he is getting used to unhappy people and complaining phone calls at all hours of the day and night.
He says that when someone complains at church now, he just says, "take a number and get in line."
In some strange way, I find this a bit funny. I am sure he has added a great deal of consternation into his life by becoming involved in politics. I for one, am not going to do it. I don't want the extra phone calls, and our folks don't complain that much anyway.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
He says that when someone complains at church now, he just says, "take a number and get in line."
In some strange way, I find this a bit funny. I am sure he has added a great deal of consternation into his life by becoming involved in politics. I for one, am not going to do it. I don't want the extra phone calls, and our folks don't complain that much anyway.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, April 29, 2011
what year
What year is it? Lyle Shaller, a famous church consultant, used to begin every meeting with a church by asking the question, "What year is it here?"
Do you hear the question? Here it is... Are you church folks acting like we are still in 1960? 1975? 1980? Is your view of the church, like the church you grew up in? Do you expect Woods Chapel 2011 to be like the church you grew up in? How many years ago was that? What year is it in your brain for the church?
Is it possible that Christendom is fluid and that it is not contained by the shape of any particular decade? Is it possible that the Spirit continues to call us away from our cultural views of "church" and towards a faithful following of Jesus? Is it possible that we are stuck in a picture of the church that no longer works, and is no more faithful simply because it is the paradigm that we learned?
The year today of course is 2011. The church of 2011 and into the future cannot be held back by our ideas. God draws us away from our preconceived notions and into faithfulness. Are you ready to go?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Do you hear the question? Here it is... Are you church folks acting like we are still in 1960? 1975? 1980? Is your view of the church, like the church you grew up in? Do you expect Woods Chapel 2011 to be like the church you grew up in? How many years ago was that? What year is it in your brain for the church?
Is it possible that Christendom is fluid and that it is not contained by the shape of any particular decade? Is it possible that the Spirit continues to call us away from our cultural views of "church" and towards a faithful following of Jesus? Is it possible that we are stuck in a picture of the church that no longer works, and is no more faithful simply because it is the paradigm that we learned?
The year today of course is 2011. The church of 2011 and into the future cannot be held back by our ideas. God draws us away from our preconceived notions and into faithfulness. Are you ready to go?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, April 28, 2011
Easter Attendance
Well, everyone always asks, so here are the numbers. At all services this year for Easter, there were 2640 people in attendance. Remember, numbers don't matter, except for the fact that numbers represent human beings.
Do you like that number, does it make you happy? Last year we had 2819 on Easter. Does that number make you feel bad? Why did we have fewer this year?
Not to make excuses, but last year we had a fiasco, being unprepared for those who were here. I know that many were discouraged by that. Adam Hamilton told me yesterday that it takes them 6-9 months to recover from a capital funds drive. The most important thing that I can tell you about numbers, is that they are going to be up and down, all around the church, until we can figure out how to make room for others. After 16 years of up, up, up, we have reached critical mass at WCC. A restaurant with 10 tables can only serve so many people lunch. If we want to serve and reach more folks, we have to make more opportunities. That is why the pastor and the building committee have been holding up the proposed building addition.
I want to thank everyone for all of their work on Easter. The day ran very smoothly and it was a great celebration of the resurrected Christ. Please just understand, until we make more opportunities, our numbers will be up and down as we are just up against our potential.
It is still a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Do you like that number, does it make you happy? Last year we had 2819 on Easter. Does that number make you feel bad? Why did we have fewer this year?
Not to make excuses, but last year we had a fiasco, being unprepared for those who were here. I know that many were discouraged by that. Adam Hamilton told me yesterday that it takes them 6-9 months to recover from a capital funds drive. The most important thing that I can tell you about numbers, is that they are going to be up and down, all around the church, until we can figure out how to make room for others. After 16 years of up, up, up, we have reached critical mass at WCC. A restaurant with 10 tables can only serve so many people lunch. If we want to serve and reach more folks, we have to make more opportunities. That is why the pastor and the building committee have been holding up the proposed building addition.
I want to thank everyone for all of their work on Easter. The day ran very smoothly and it was a great celebration of the resurrected Christ. Please just understand, until we make more opportunities, our numbers will be up and down as we are just up against our potential.
It is still a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
timeliness
Timeliness. Sometimes being timely is more important that being true or right. Sometimes people cannot take the truth. They are not ready for it. We in our arrogance want to lay the truth on someone. We want to give it to them straight. What if they are not ready for it? What if they can only digest the truth a little bit at a time? Is it really right to crush them with something that they cannot yet bear?
Jesus said, “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear." John 16:12 Jesus knew that folks can only take the truth a little bit at a time. How much truth are you able to bear? How open are you to invite Jesus to change your thinking? How open am I?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Jesus said, “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear." John 16:12 Jesus knew that folks can only take the truth a little bit at a time. How much truth are you able to bear? How open are you to invite Jesus to change your thinking? How open am I?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
old places
Yesterday I went to visit someone in Research Hospital. On the way home I was driving by 63rd street by the old Pepsi building. I remembered that I used to work over there in 1979. I turned off and went back into the area to see what was still there.
In 1979 there was an office trailer, a metal building shop and a place to park trucks. What would be there today? Not much.
32 years later, there is no trace of the business that I worked at for two years. It is kind of a funny feeling to know that you invested yourself in a place, and a few years later, there is nothing.
May that never be the case for the things that really matter in life. May our investments in the people that we come into contact with always bear fruit that lasts. Office trailers come and go, but people are an eternal investment.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
In 1979 there was an office trailer, a metal building shop and a place to park trucks. What would be there today? Not much.
32 years later, there is no trace of the business that I worked at for two years. It is kind of a funny feeling to know that you invested yourself in a place, and a few years later, there is nothing.May that never be the case for the things that really matter in life. May our investments in the people that we come into contact with always bear fruit that lasts. Office trailers come and go, but people are an eternal investment.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, April 25, 2011
lamb cake
Yesterday I posted about Easter memories. Having them, and making them. One of the things that I mentioned was eating lamb cake as a child.
When I came home from church, someone [RK] had delivered a lamb cake. How totally nice. How awesome. Now you can see what one looks like, and I get to eat it.
Next year on Easter, in my blog I think I will mention some big vacation and see if it shows up the next day. Just kidding.
Actually, here is an odd thought. The blog post was delayed for some reason yesterday, so the cake showed up before the blog was even available. How did RK even know about the lamb cake? I don't know. At any rate, it is beautiful, and greatly appreciated.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Happy Easter!
Easter brings many memories for me. When I was three years old, I got a deck of Casper the Friendly Ghost playing cards in my Easter Basket. We went to egg hunts every year in Kirkwood park. We ate big Easter meals and finished them off with a piece of lamb cake. [white cake baked in a lamb shaped pan.] We never missed church, ever, when I was growing up. In fact, I believe that I have been in church every Easter Sunday for 53 years.
Today, we will make new memories. Time spent with families, traditions exercised, relationships renewed. And church. May you find this day, a blessing from your worship. May the prayers prayed, the words spoken and the songs sung, bless you. May you feel the joy of life with God. May the resurrection speak to you of the hope that we have in Christ.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Today, we will make new memories. Time spent with families, traditions exercised, relationships renewed. And church. May you find this day, a blessing from your worship. May the prayers prayed, the words spoken and the songs sung, bless you. May you feel the joy of life with God. May the resurrection speak to you of the hope that we have in Christ.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
yesterday
Yesterday, my mother in law had the balloon treatment on her heart. Seems that she had been having chest pains. Once they figured out why, the balloon worked well. Before and after pictures indicate that the procedure was a complete success. She will have lots of blood flow to that part of the heart from here on out.
It is nice that we live in a time when doctors can find out what the problem is and make the repairs. It is also nice to see how friends and loved ones pour out in times of need. All three of Carlotta's children stood vigil at her bedside. Each of my children made the trip to visit grandma. The concern exhibited on each face showed a true respect for this fine lady.
Family is good. Having a nurse in the family who knows what questions to ask is good. Standing with those in need is good stuff. Love is good.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
It is nice that we live in a time when doctors can find out what the problem is and make the repairs. It is also nice to see how friends and loved ones pour out in times of need. All three of Carlotta's children stood vigil at her bedside. Each of my children made the trip to visit grandma. The concern exhibited on each face showed a true respect for this fine lady.
Family is good. Having a nurse in the family who knows what questions to ask is good. Standing with those in need is good stuff. Love is good.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, April 22, 2011
gifts
The other day I received a gift. There was no special reason or occasion. I think the person who gave me the gift just felt like doing so….I used to struggle with things like that. I felt like I needed to give back something...pay back the debt...keep things balanced so to speak. But, that’s not how it works. You can never equal the heart or the spirit in the giving of the first gift. You can, however, pay it forward.
It can be hard to accept something for free. Grace is like that, it is given…you can’t pay it back, but you can pay it forward.
Ephesians 2:8
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,
Peace,
Lion’s Den Man
It can be hard to accept something for free. Grace is like that, it is given…you can’t pay it back, but you can pay it forward.
Ephesians 2:8
8 For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God,
Peace,
Lion’s Den Man
Thursday, April 21, 2011
breaking bread
Jesus spent so much time enjoying food with people that the Pharisees called him a glutton. He did it because it was time well spent... Community... If you get the chance today, share a meal with someone. Slow things down for a bit. Take your time to enjoy fellowship. Celebrate! Pray and give thanks. Find peace. Most of all remember....
When it was time, he sat down, all the apostles with him, and said, "You've no idea how much I have looked forward to eating this Passover meal with you before I enter my time of suffering. It's the last one I'll eat until we all eat it together in the kingdom of God." Luke 14-16 Msg.
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.” Luke 22:19 NIV
Peace,
Lion’s Den Man
When it was time, he sat down, all the apostles with him, and said, "You've no idea how much I have looked forward to eating this Passover meal with you before I enter my time of suffering. It's the last one I'll eat until we all eat it together in the kingdom of God." Luke 14-16 Msg.
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.” Luke 22:19 NIV
Peace,
Lion’s Den Man
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Chilli Pepper
Hi Chili Pepper-
I read your comment. You want to have coffee. That is great. Please call me or send me an email so I know who you are.
Anybody else out there, the coffee is on. One of the best ways for me to spend my time is to spend it with you. So let me know if you want to visit sometime.
For that matter, our time is such a great gift. To give to another person, your ear, your eyes, your heart, your soul, your time. That is what relationship is all about. Things get better when we do that. They don't always get fixed, but things get better when we spend time together.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I read your comment. You want to have coffee. That is great. Please call me or send me an email so I know who you are.
Anybody else out there, the coffee is on. One of the best ways for me to spend my time is to spend it with you. So let me know if you want to visit sometime.
For that matter, our time is such a great gift. To give to another person, your ear, your eyes, your heart, your soul, your time. That is what relationship is all about. Things get better when we do that. They don't always get fixed, but things get better when we spend time together.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
skunk
Last night I ran over a skunk. I did not actually hit it, someone else took care of that. It was just out in the middle of the road, dead, and my car travelled over it.
Odd thing. My car immediately filled up with the joyful aroma of skunk. Ahh. Savor it.
There are several morals from this story.
1. sometimes just getting close to trouble is bad enough.
2. you can think you have dodged a problem when you have not.
3. given enough time, the smell will leave and you will have your life back.
4. steer clear, way clear of the bad stuff.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Odd thing. My car immediately filled up with the joyful aroma of skunk. Ahh. Savor it.
There are several morals from this story.
1. sometimes just getting close to trouble is bad enough.
2. you can think you have dodged a problem when you have not.
3. given enough time, the smell will leave and you will have your life back.
4. steer clear, way clear of the bad stuff.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, April 18, 2011
family
Jesus set aside his mother and his brothers for his disciples. Now I am not going to set aside my sisters, my wife or my children, but lets celebrate for a moment, all of the people that we have come to know that really are our family.
I am thankful for our neighbors, my children's friends from college, and a gazillion friends from church, each of you have become a part of our family. I celebrate you!!!
Who do you celebrate?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I am thankful for our neighbors, my children's friends from college, and a gazillion friends from church, each of you have become a part of our family. I celebrate you!!!
Who do you celebrate?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, April 17, 2011
wasting time
Early Methodists were encouraged not to waste time. Time is short, time is God's blessing. Don't waste it. Methodist preachers when ordained are admonished not to trifle their time away.
In the old days this was interpreted as "do not play cards." Do not engage in behavior that is just passing the time, but engage yourself in God's work.
I offer a new spin on it today....... are you worried? Are you unhappy? Are you stuck on some negative thought? Are you angry? Upset with someone else? Do not waste your time in such endeavors. Every minute that we spend being angry or unhappy about something is a minute that we are not celebrating God's love and sharing his love with others. How sad that so many people spend so much time on the unhappies. Those moments stolen from God's work can never be returned.
I am not against playing cards. I am not against going to baseball games. But I am against us using time for gossip and anger when we could be using that time loving one another and celebrating God's world.
Today is a new day. Let's use all of our minutes for love. We can only use them one time.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
In the old days this was interpreted as "do not play cards." Do not engage in behavior that is just passing the time, but engage yourself in God's work.
I offer a new spin on it today....... are you worried? Are you unhappy? Are you stuck on some negative thought? Are you angry? Upset with someone else? Do not waste your time in such endeavors. Every minute that we spend being angry or unhappy about something is a minute that we are not celebrating God's love and sharing his love with others. How sad that so many people spend so much time on the unhappies. Those moments stolen from God's work can never be returned.
I am not against playing cards. I am not against going to baseball games. But I am against us using time for gossip and anger when we could be using that time loving one another and celebrating God's world.
Today is a new day. Let's use all of our minutes for love. We can only use them one time.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
tickled
Wednesday night I went home after Bible study and got to watching a movie that just tickled me. You know that thing that happens to us from time to time where you just can't stop laughing, just can't stop grinning.
My Dad had a certain kind of laugh and I heard it coming out of me all night long. I got to thinking about him and how he would get to laughing at the Honeymooners. He always drank coke floats. So, I went to the kitchen and made one. I watched the movie, giggled and drank a coke float.
It was great. Just pure joy. An unbridled gift. A surprise moment of enjoyment. Thank you God.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
My Dad had a certain kind of laugh and I heard it coming out of me all night long. I got to thinking about him and how he would get to laughing at the Honeymooners. He always drank coke floats. So, I went to the kitchen and made one. I watched the movie, giggled and drank a coke float.
It was great. Just pure joy. An unbridled gift. A surprise moment of enjoyment. Thank you God.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, April 15, 2011
it's a beautiful day
please take one minute to watch this video. if it will not open when you click on it, cut and paste the link into your browser.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
reaction
Have you ever asked yourself how much of what you think, and how much of what you are, is a reaction to something else in your life? Someone who had a bad experience with a dog as a child, is to this day, afraid of dogs. Someone who lost a parent in a plane crash, can barely stand to board a flight.
Someone who was raised in a church that "didn't believe anything" [as they experienced it] spends the rest of their life looking for a church that believes all of the right things. While someone who grew up in a very strict religious environment, dominated by rules and judgement, becomes infatuated later in life with love and grace.
I would like to think that love and grace are good for everyone, but you can't force feed someone who has clenched teeth. You can lead a horse to water.......
What if we all just came to a place where we understood that we are all different, and it is ok. Not everyone is going to see it like I do, or like you do. That is ok. We can still play on the same team. We can still be brothers. We don't have to hurt one another because we see the world a little differently. What if, instead of what bothers us about someone else, God, and God's grace became the focus of our lives?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Someone who was raised in a church that "didn't believe anything" [as they experienced it] spends the rest of their life looking for a church that believes all of the right things. While someone who grew up in a very strict religious environment, dominated by rules and judgement, becomes infatuated later in life with love and grace.
I would like to think that love and grace are good for everyone, but you can't force feed someone who has clenched teeth. You can lead a horse to water.......
What if we all just came to a place where we understood that we are all different, and it is ok. Not everyone is going to see it like I do, or like you do. That is ok. We can still play on the same team. We can still be brothers. We don't have to hurt one another because we see the world a little differently. What if, instead of what bothers us about someone else, God, and God's grace became the focus of our lives?
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
on being a Methodist
Several people ask about what it means to be a Methodist. This can be a complicated question, because there are so many Methodists that you don't always get the same answer. Also, since so many denominations are so defined by one particular thing, they expect the same sort of "one thing" from the Methodists, and this is harder to pin down. God is mysterious and cannot be forced into a box. I would expect that his followers should stop trying to do so.
Methodists are open. There is no creed to sign on to. We expect Methodists to believe in the essentials of faith, but everyone is welcome in our churches. There is no litmus test that decides who is in and who is out. Everyone is welcome, even non believers. If we don't welcome them, where will they find Christ?
Some denominations are all about baptism or salvation. Methodists believe that baptism is primarily about God's actions not ours. Methodists are also not hung up on one method of baptism or another, as if God were going to catch you on a technicality. {welcome to heaven. Oh, you were baptized wrong. Never mind, you must go to hell.} Methodists believe that you are baptized into Christ. We accept and honor all Christian baptism. Methodists are for salvation, but we will not force it upon you or guilt you into it. We want to give you the opportunity to choose Jesus in a way that honors your free will.
Methodist are big on grace and love. That is because God is big on grace and love. This is not to sugar coat the scriptures. These concepts are the central themes of the Scriptures. To make Christianity into a heavy, burdensome system of who the good ones are, and who the bad one's are is to pervert the gospel. The gospel is good news. Methodists are for love and grace because God is love.
Methodists historically are mission minded. "No one is saved by good works, but no one will be saved without them" - John Wesley. The Christian life is to be lived, not talked about. We are here to give ourselves away in the name of Jesus.
So to sum it up.
Methodists = yes on welcome. yes on inclusiveness. yes on honest dialogue about faith. yes on different ideas. yes on grace. no on human doctrinal spins that hurt and manipulate people. Yes on love. yes on missions. Yes on Jesus. Yes on God. Love wins.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Methodists are open. There is no creed to sign on to. We expect Methodists to believe in the essentials of faith, but everyone is welcome in our churches. There is no litmus test that decides who is in and who is out. Everyone is welcome, even non believers. If we don't welcome them, where will they find Christ?
Some denominations are all about baptism or salvation. Methodists believe that baptism is primarily about God's actions not ours. Methodists are also not hung up on one method of baptism or another, as if God were going to catch you on a technicality. {welcome to heaven. Oh, you were baptized wrong. Never mind, you must go to hell.} Methodists believe that you are baptized into Christ. We accept and honor all Christian baptism. Methodists are for salvation, but we will not force it upon you or guilt you into it. We want to give you the opportunity to choose Jesus in a way that honors your free will.
Methodist are big on grace and love. That is because God is big on grace and love. This is not to sugar coat the scriptures. These concepts are the central themes of the Scriptures. To make Christianity into a heavy, burdensome system of who the good ones are, and who the bad one's are is to pervert the gospel. The gospel is good news. Methodists are for love and grace because God is love.
Methodists historically are mission minded. "No one is saved by good works, but no one will be saved without them" - John Wesley. The Christian life is to be lived, not talked about. We are here to give ourselves away in the name of Jesus.
So to sum it up.
Methodists = yes on welcome. yes on inclusiveness. yes on honest dialogue about faith. yes on different ideas. yes on grace. no on human doctrinal spins that hurt and manipulate people. Yes on love. yes on missions. Yes on Jesus. Yes on God. Love wins.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Sunday
Last Sunday I got to go to church. You might say, well i thought that you got to go every week. Well, when you are the pastor, you don't often just get to go to church. There is so much to worry about, so many things that drag your brain away.
Sunday I got to go to church and just be a worshipper. It was great. I went to 815 at Grace UMC and heard Hubert Neth's sermon. Then I stayed and listened at 915 at Grace UMC to Jeremy Vicker's message. Finally I made the 1010 service, sat with my wife and heard Shawn's sermon. Thank you to all three of those pastors for touching me.
I hope you never tire of being in God's house. When you don't get to do it all of the time, you miss just being there. I was glad when they said to me, let us go up to the house of the Lord.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday I got to go to church and just be a worshipper. It was great. I went to 815 at Grace UMC and heard Hubert Neth's sermon. Then I stayed and listened at 915 at Grace UMC to Jeremy Vicker's message. Finally I made the 1010 service, sat with my wife and heard Shawn's sermon. Thank you to all three of those pastors for touching me.
I hope you never tire of being in God's house. When you don't get to do it all of the time, you miss just being there. I was glad when they said to me, let us go up to the house of the Lord.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, April 11, 2011
the blue book
When I was in college, if there was an essay test, you would buy a "blue book" to use during the essay test. A blue book cost a dime and was 8 or 10 pages of blank lined paper. You wrote down the question when given by the professor, and then you wrote your answer. As long or as short as it took, you wrote. Your ideas filled blank pages.
Now, I heard from somebody the other day who does not agree with my definition of the Christian faith. I am too "outward focused." I am too interested in missions. We bantered for a while. I guess I just don't understand how you can have the Christian faith if you are not missional.
I also got to feeling that sometimes people like to pick at this sermon or another, but they do not have a competing idea to offer. So, it can sound like, "I don't like your answers, but I have no other answers to give."
So I got to thinking about the blue book. The clean slate. The you get a chance to say whatever you want forum about what it means to be a Christian. Here we go. Take some time, sit down and write what you believe. Here are my questions:
1. what does it mean to be a Christ follower?
2. What role does missions [giving one's self away] play in the Christian faith?
3. what have you given up, what are you willing to give up to follow Jesus?
You have 30 minutes to answer those questions. At the end of that time, please put your pencil down and bring your blue book up to my desk. Be sure to write your name on the front of the blue book.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Now, I heard from somebody the other day who does not agree with my definition of the Christian faith. I am too "outward focused." I am too interested in missions. We bantered for a while. I guess I just don't understand how you can have the Christian faith if you are not missional.
I also got to feeling that sometimes people like to pick at this sermon or another, but they do not have a competing idea to offer. So, it can sound like, "I don't like your answers, but I have no other answers to give."
So I got to thinking about the blue book. The clean slate. The you get a chance to say whatever you want forum about what it means to be a Christian. Here we go. Take some time, sit down and write what you believe. Here are my questions:
1. what does it mean to be a Christ follower?
2. What role does missions [giving one's self away] play in the Christian faith?
3. what have you given up, what are you willing to give up to follow Jesus?
You have 30 minutes to answer those questions. At the end of that time, please put your pencil down and bring your blue book up to my desk. Be sure to write your name on the front of the blue book.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
you are not alone
Dear Friend,
I know that you have been hurting. I am glad that you read something here that helped you. I want you to know that you are not alone. God sees you and he is reaching out to you with loving arms of support. There are also many fine people around you that love you and stand to support you.
I am glad to sit down and visit with you. To listen, to share a cup of coffee. I am not too busy. Let me know if I can help you. You are loved.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
I know that you have been hurting. I am glad that you read something here that helped you. I want you to know that you are not alone. God sees you and he is reaching out to you with loving arms of support. There are also many fine people around you that love you and stand to support you.
I am glad to sit down and visit with you. To listen, to share a cup of coffee. I am not too busy. Let me know if I can help you. You are loved.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
no problem
Someone once said, if I am upset with you, then something is wrong with me. [don't read through that and cruise on, savor that sentence.] That is pretty close to what Jesus said about loving your enemies.
In the final analysis, the solution to problems often lies neither in action nor in inaction but in understanding. For when there is true understanding, there is no problem.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
In the final analysis, the solution to problems often lies neither in action nor in inaction but in understanding. For when there is true understanding, there is no problem.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, April 8, 2011
the candy store
When the kids were little and we would take them to the grocery store, the bakery in the back corner would always give the kids a free cookie. I guess that they still do that.
A heard a story the other day that reminded me of that. Seems that a candy store owner would give a free piece of candy to kids. One per day. So all the neighborhood kids would make their way to the candy store each day for their free piece of candy. Inevitably, they would all fight and argue over whose was best. My green one is better than your yellow one. I have a red one! Mine is shaped like a moon. Well, mine is best because it is orange and it is shaped like a bird. It always happened that someone would chase it so long that another child would leave crying with hurt feelings.
The shopkeeper simply listened to all of their banter and smiled. He smiled because he realized that the kids were doing the same thing that many adults do. Comparing their stuff and insisting that we are better because our stuff is like this or that. How sad. And the real good part of life has nothing to do with candy or colors, or cars, or the size of your home.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
A heard a story the other day that reminded me of that. Seems that a candy store owner would give a free piece of candy to kids. One per day. So all the neighborhood kids would make their way to the candy store each day for their free piece of candy. Inevitably, they would all fight and argue over whose was best. My green one is better than your yellow one. I have a red one! Mine is shaped like a moon. Well, mine is best because it is orange and it is shaped like a bird. It always happened that someone would chase it so long that another child would leave crying with hurt feelings.
The shopkeeper simply listened to all of their banter and smiled. He smiled because he realized that the kids were doing the same thing that many adults do. Comparing their stuff and insisting that we are better because our stuff is like this or that. How sad. And the real good part of life has nothing to do with candy or colors, or cars, or the size of your home.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
st. John
There is a story that is told regarding the apostle St. John, who is known as the apostle of love. If you are unsure why he is know as such, please read the books towards the end of the new testament, first, second and third John.
Anyway, there is a story told that St. John is surrounded by his disciples. They are asking him, "why do you always teach us about love? That is all you ever talk about." They said, "please master, teach us of something else."
His reply is worth considering. He told his disciples, "I cannot teach you of something else, for there is nothing else."
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Anyway, there is a story told that St. John is surrounded by his disciples. They are asking him, "why do you always teach us about love? That is all you ever talk about." They said, "please master, teach us of something else."
His reply is worth considering. He told his disciples, "I cannot teach you of something else, for there is nothing else."
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
I've heard it
Someone said, "I've heard it all before. I have been in church so long, that I have heard all of the stories about God and Jesus. Nothing is new to me anymore."
And to this I say, it is important to hear the stories over and over. We humans have short memories. And we humans can get very calloused very quickly. Over time, questions and doubts come in. It is important to listen to the stories at least as much if not more than we listen to our doubts. To hear the story again is to savor it, to welcome it, to let it speak to you yet once more.
Yes you may have heard it all, but is thy heart still open to the message? I pray ye my friends, incline thine ear, open thine heart and lets the words of old speak to you afresh in this day.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
And to this I say, it is important to hear the stories over and over. We humans have short memories. And we humans can get very calloused very quickly. Over time, questions and doubts come in. It is important to listen to the stories at least as much if not more than we listen to our doubts. To hear the story again is to savor it, to welcome it, to let it speak to you yet once more.
Yes you may have heard it all, but is thy heart still open to the message? I pray ye my friends, incline thine ear, open thine heart and lets the words of old speak to you afresh in this day.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
nothing
Sometimes there is nothing that you can do. I can't control it, I can't fix it. I am not even on the playing field. I am not invited to the party. I am not in the circle that gets to speak to the thing.
All I can do is pray. But sometimes my praying seems to be an effort on my part to fix it or control it, and I realize that this is wrong, this is manipulative. I have not yet put the thing into God's hands. When I do put it in the hands of God, I trust him and I rest in him.
My praying becomes about being with him, not fixing the thing. There is nothing else that I can do but trust him. Thankfully, that is enough. So I must go on living and just understand that I can't fix everything and -
it is still a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
All I can do is pray. But sometimes my praying seems to be an effort on my part to fix it or control it, and I realize that this is wrong, this is manipulative. I have not yet put the thing into God's hands. When I do put it in the hands of God, I trust him and I rest in him.
My praying becomes about being with him, not fixing the thing. There is nothing else that I can do but trust him. Thankfully, that is enough. So I must go on living and just understand that I can't fix everything and -
it is still a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Monday, April 4, 2011
the kingdom
Religion makes people sad. Rules upon rules. Manipulation upon manipulation. You are in, they are out, they are in, you are out. Be good. Be better. What is wrong with you? God hates sin. You are not good enough. Try harder or you might go to hell.
The kingdom message on the other hand, makes people happy. The message of the kingdom falls upon the ears of humans with a joy that is truly splendid. "God loves you! Your sin is forgiven. Jesus has made the way. Live in gloom no more! Share the joy. Release your worries, cast your cares upon him. Live each moment in God's love."
This is the message of the kingdom. Which message are you listening to? It may have a bearing on how you are experiencing this life that God has given us.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
The kingdom message on the other hand, makes people happy. The message of the kingdom falls upon the ears of humans with a joy that is truly splendid. "God loves you! Your sin is forgiven. Jesus has made the way. Live in gloom no more! Share the joy. Release your worries, cast your cares upon him. Live each moment in God's love."
This is the message of the kingdom. Which message are you listening to? It may have a bearing on how you are experiencing this life that God has given us.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
the homecoming
It is the day of homecoming. The entire household awaits her arrival. You see, when you are gone every week, but also dearly loved, everyone waits for your return.
Although they may have survived the week, stoically going about the business of life, let there be no mistake - It is with great anticipation that the family awaits for the sound of the garage door rising. Of course the humans know, but the dog as well, he always knows when it is Friday and mom is coming home. He is the first to greet her with 5 minutes of yipping and yapping and tail wagging joy. When his turn is over, the humans get their turn. A hug, a smile, and a settling in for a few days until she hits the road again on Monday.
Everyone should be so loved in their home that they are received with such joy every time they walk in the door. The world would be a better place if we appreciated each other a little more. The next time your family member or friend comes over, put everything else aside. Get up, greet them, welcome them, hug them. They are worth the celebration.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Although they may have survived the week, stoically going about the business of life, let there be no mistake - It is with great anticipation that the family awaits for the sound of the garage door rising. Of course the humans know, but the dog as well, he always knows when it is Friday and mom is coming home. He is the first to greet her with 5 minutes of yipping and yapping and tail wagging joy. When his turn is over, the humans get their turn. A hug, a smile, and a settling in for a few days until she hits the road again on Monday.
Everyone should be so loved in their home that they are received with such joy every time they walk in the door. The world would be a better place if we appreciated each other a little more. The next time your family member or friend comes over, put everything else aside. Get up, greet them, welcome them, hug them. They are worth the celebration.
It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Saturday, April 2, 2011
magic or mysterious
Is your God magic or mysterious. Some people want a magic God. I say the prayers, and God fixes it. I learn the right things, and then I know the right things and have it all figured out. I just do the secret things, and then I am in the know, in the right, in the in. I have God in a box and it is all to my liking. But the problem with this is that God is not magic, nor can he be put in a box. God is mysterious. Bigger than us. Higher than us. Beyond our understanding, beyond our doctrine. Beyond our desires, beyond our preference. God loves us, and wants to be loved back. Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus and God is the creator of the universe. Do not expect to figure it all out. Stand in awe. God is God, with, or without our permission. Stand in awe of the mystery. It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
Friday, April 1, 2011
grieving
When you are grieving, you should not make any big decisions. So they say. Something happened. You are hurting. The world does not look the same. The world may never be the same for you. It may never go back to the way it was. Don't buy a house, sell a house, buy a car, or join the army. Don't give away your possessions, quit your friends, or join a convent. Give yourself some time to heal. Life is going to be different, from one time, one thing, to the next. Relax, rest, heal. God is with you. It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.
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