We like change at times and we loathe change at times. Recently a story was recounted to me as a young American soldier in the Middle East had strayed into the wrong zone. Coming face to face with the enemy the American soldier was warned not to proceed beyond this point as he would be killed. The enemy soldier had killed enough and did not want to kill anymore but those behind him would not show the same restraint. Oscar Schindler is best known from the Spielberg movie as a hero to the Jews. Yet, it did not start out that way. Schindler became very wealthy as a manufacturer utilizing concentration camp inmates as a source of cheap labor. Eventually the circumstances surrounding Schindler would lead him to finding ways to spare the lives of concentration camp inhabitants. Even our presidential elections are centered on the promise that things will be different. In each case we are applauding the act of change as positive. But when change affects our comfort zone it is frowned upon. Change requires effort which scares us at times.
Jesus was all about change. Luke 4:14-21 …18“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, 19to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.”…. This became a radical change which affected the lives of all people. Isn’t this type of change that which fuels our desire to serve Jesus as faithful disciples? Where would the American soldier be without the radical change of an enemy soldier? I think we know the answer. Where would the Jews whom Schindler rescued be without radical change? Maybe they would be alive but that’s highly unlikely. Where would we be if not for radical change promised by politicians? Slavery might still exist and women may not have the right to vote. Based on a radical change that Jesus creates in us brings about a desire to proclaim the Easter Story every day which allows us to make a difference in the lives of others.
Each and every one of you at Church of the Palms has made a difference in the lives of others and in my life too. From the first day until now I have experienced the grace of God’s love in my relationships with you. You were there to give me a ride when my truck broke down, you fed me, and I have always felt like I belong here. I will miss the Friday morning coffee talk, the Bible study, meetings, and many other events. As the recipient of God’s grace from you it is I who has been blessed. Where would I be without you? Not really sure but I can say that I know have the strength to follow God wherever He leads. Thank you for being that presence of Christ in my life. The grace and peace of our risen Lord, Jesus Christ, be with you. See y’all soon.
Saturday, April 23, 2011
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Good Vs. Evil
December of 1999 was a month charged with visions of the end times as the antichrist would establish his one world government and Christians, particularly in the United States, would feel his wrath. The gentleman I mentioned in the introduction is one who had been taught the antichrist was ready to rear his ugly head. In fact, the one world government has already laid down its groundwork. My friend told me the United Nations was on the way to take away all armament from the citizens of the U.S. Christians would soon be placed in concentration camps across the country with Baptists being the first to be imprisoned. Much of Tim LaHaye’s writings veer off in this direction. If I did not know any better I would say the pastor where my customer attended church was preaching not from the Bible but from Left Behind. LaHaye supports the notion of the U.N., as an organization is a classic example of one-world governments. It will be from this organization the antichrist will establish atheism as the only religion. These very attitudes strike fear in the heart of those seeking a deeper relationship with God and run counter active to the goal of drawing others to Christ. The word “goal” was used intentionally since one can get the feeling the ultimate goal is to see how many souls can be “saved” by one person. Two possible scenarios result from this teaching. The first is a person will turn closer to God but the flip side is the usual result where a person turns their back on the church.
Are we living in the end times? LaHaye thinks that we are. Daniel, I believe, gives us an insight into the final days. Historically, we know about Antiochus Epiphanes IV and how he reacted against the Jews. He was a powerful ruler who governed with a rule of terror. As Antiochus continued his military campaigns to grow his kingdom he would loot the Temple to finance these battles. He also had a stake in the high priest of the Temple. Menelaus would be the first high priest under Antiochus as payment was offered for appointment to the office of high priest. Antiochus would not exactly experience a windfall but this generated much needed income. Maybe this is what is meant when disrespect is shown for the god of his fathers. The pride of Antiochus and his religious policies have been defined. After one battle news had spread that Antiochus The Jews would experience cruelty and oppression upon the return of Antiochus. Sacrifices were outlawed, the Temple was desecrated by the sacrificing of a pig on the alter and Antiochus would declare himself to be a god. Daniel could read in this fashion if it was a historical account of the Jewish plight during the intertestamental period. Other references coming from this time frame may also be applied to the Roman rulers as well. However, in some of the commentaries references were made about Adolph Hitler and Karl Marx. Hitler was able to woo the people with his oratory skills and talk about how the Germanic people could be glorious once again. Nationalism developed from this style of speech. Hitler was able to win over certain sects and as each group of people came over to his side, including some Jews, the real purpose of his plans came. Hitler set off to dominate the world and cleanse it of sub-human cultures. Could not Daniel apply in this instance? World leaders have come and gone but in many instances they fit the prophecies in Daniel.
Antiochus would face a rebellion that would cause his empire to crumble. He was not without his enemies. Whenever a king comes to power and amasses great wealth whether it is in the form of money or territory a natural antithesis will develop. Rivals will spring up as jealousy abounds as a result of the possessions of another. Antiochus would become angry with the Jews and those in opposition to him. He would set out to destroy the enemy. Many battles would take place only to see Antiochus defeated. Yes, the Maccabean revolt could be that king of the south who rises up against the king of the north. Yet, is it only Antiochus we see in this passage? In the not too distant past a great country, political system, known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic existed with great power and wealth. One of the satellite countries would fight for its life, as the U.S.S.R. would seek to further amass wealth and territory. Afghanistan, like the Maccabeans, would rise up against the enemy of the north and defeat the evil king. After the defeat of the U.S.S.R. the republic would no longer exist as the once mighty power. However, the rage of this once great kingdom continued as Russia tried to hold onto some of its possessions. Even the small country of Georgia would prove too much only bringing what was once left of a mighty king to its knees. Could not Daniel be read this way?
Why is it in the U.S. we try to view ourselves as the center of the prophecies in the Bible? Recently the U.S. experienced one of the most active hurricane seasons on record. September 11, 2001 saw the twin towers of the Word Trade Center fall victim to an act of terrorism. Immediately the end times were ushered in and the prophecies of the Bible were being fulfilled. The same was said back in 1993 when Osama bin Laden attacked them the first time. We cannot dismiss the prophecies of Nostradamus who also predicted such events taking place. His prophetical visions are a bunch of hooey that could be applied to any situation. They are so vague in their description we actually can apply or interpret their meaning to any situation we please. We do the same thing for Biblical prophecy. Value has been assigned to not only the antichrist but to the false prophet as well. National origin, according to LaHaye, will be someone from Romania or close to this geographical location. I feel the point or purpose of Daniel is being missed. The identity of the antichrist is given but not one identifies the risen Lord in this passage. Maybe, just maybe, the king of the south is Jesus. He was born in southern Judah in the town of Bethlehem. He was then taken to Egypt so he would not be caught up in the rage of King Herod’s jealousy. In the this king of the north. The common people enjoyed the words of the king of the south who pitched his tent between the sea and the Holy Mountain. The people also feared the king of the north. As people turned to the king of the south the king of the north was disturbed by the increased following of the king of the south. The king of the north would plot to kill the king of the south as a result of the rage, which developed from the disturbing news. Anger abounded in the people as the king of the north stirred up the crowds into a frenzy spewing blasphemous comments against the king of the south. I remember these words, “He came into His own and His own recognized Him not”. The king of the south was nailed to the cross in this final battle of good and evil only to find evil destroyed. The antichrist is the church and the false prophet are those who abide in it. Could not Daniel read this way?
Daniel has given us a comprehensive picture of how evil moves in opposition to the word of God. I cannot find one specific individual but realize there will be many events that reflect what Daniel says. Apocalyptic writings bring comfort to the oppressed as they ask “how long”. Yet, God’s word transcends all time. Maybe the comfort gained then versus now is not quite the same but does it only apply to one generation. We take apocalyptic literature and place limits on its meaning. Centuries from now I know someone will take Daniel 11 and apply the peser to the raz in a context they will understand. Daniel was meant to bring about immediate comfort to the people then and yet does the same for us now. I have enjoyed reading apocalyptic literature and have gained a new respect for its purpose. It is wisdom writing and requires the wisdom of God to interpret its meaning.
Are we living in the end times? LaHaye thinks that we are. Daniel, I believe, gives us an insight into the final days. Historically, we know about Antiochus Epiphanes IV and how he reacted against the Jews. He was a powerful ruler who governed with a rule of terror. As Antiochus continued his military campaigns to grow his kingdom he would loot the Temple to finance these battles. He also had a stake in the high priest of the Temple. Menelaus would be the first high priest under Antiochus as payment was offered for appointment to the office of high priest. Antiochus would not exactly experience a windfall but this generated much needed income. Maybe this is what is meant when disrespect is shown for the god of his fathers. The pride of Antiochus and his religious policies have been defined. After one battle news had spread that Antiochus The Jews would experience cruelty and oppression upon the return of Antiochus. Sacrifices were outlawed, the Temple was desecrated by the sacrificing of a pig on the alter and Antiochus would declare himself to be a god. Daniel could read in this fashion if it was a historical account of the Jewish plight during the intertestamental period. Other references coming from this time frame may also be applied to the Roman rulers as well. However, in some of the commentaries references were made about Adolph Hitler and Karl Marx. Hitler was able to woo the people with his oratory skills and talk about how the Germanic people could be glorious once again. Nationalism developed from this style of speech. Hitler was able to win over certain sects and as each group of people came over to his side, including some Jews, the real purpose of his plans came. Hitler set off to dominate the world and cleanse it of sub-human cultures. Could not Daniel apply in this instance? World leaders have come and gone but in many instances they fit the prophecies in Daniel.
Antiochus would face a rebellion that would cause his empire to crumble. He was not without his enemies. Whenever a king comes to power and amasses great wealth whether it is in the form of money or territory a natural antithesis will develop. Rivals will spring up as jealousy abounds as a result of the possessions of another. Antiochus would become angry with the Jews and those in opposition to him. He would set out to destroy the enemy. Many battles would take place only to see Antiochus defeated. Yes, the Maccabean revolt could be that king of the south who rises up against the king of the north. Yet, is it only Antiochus we see in this passage? In the not too distant past a great country, political system, known as the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic existed with great power and wealth. One of the satellite countries would fight for its life, as the U.S.S.R. would seek to further amass wealth and territory. Afghanistan, like the Maccabeans, would rise up against the enemy of the north and defeat the evil king. After the defeat of the U.S.S.R. the republic would no longer exist as the once mighty power. However, the rage of this once great kingdom continued as Russia tried to hold onto some of its possessions. Even the small country of Georgia would prove too much only bringing what was once left of a mighty king to its knees. Could not Daniel be read this way?
Why is it in the U.S. we try to view ourselves as the center of the prophecies in the Bible? Recently the U.S. experienced one of the most active hurricane seasons on record. September 11, 2001 saw the twin towers of the Word Trade Center fall victim to an act of terrorism. Immediately the end times were ushered in and the prophecies of the Bible were being fulfilled. The same was said back in 1993 when Osama bin Laden attacked them the first time. We cannot dismiss the prophecies of Nostradamus who also predicted such events taking place. His prophetical visions are a bunch of hooey that could be applied to any situation. They are so vague in their description we actually can apply or interpret their meaning to any situation we please. We do the same thing for Biblical prophecy. Value has been assigned to not only the antichrist but to the false prophet as well. National origin, according to LaHaye, will be someone from Romania or close to this geographical location. I feel the point or purpose of Daniel is being missed. The identity of the antichrist is given but not one identifies the risen Lord in this passage. Maybe, just maybe, the king of the south is Jesus. He was born in southern Judah in the town of Bethlehem. He was then taken to Egypt so he would not be caught up in the rage of King Herod’s jealousy. In the this king of the north. The common people enjoyed the words of the king of the south who pitched his tent between the sea and the Holy Mountain. The people also feared the king of the north. As people turned to the king of the south the king of the north was disturbed by the increased following of the king of the south. The king of the north would plot to kill the king of the south as a result of the rage, which developed from the disturbing news. Anger abounded in the people as the king of the north stirred up the crowds into a frenzy spewing blasphemous comments against the king of the south. I remember these words, “He came into His own and His own recognized Him not”. The king of the south was nailed to the cross in this final battle of good and evil only to find evil destroyed. The antichrist is the church and the false prophet are those who abide in it. Could not Daniel read this way?
Daniel has given us a comprehensive picture of how evil moves in opposition to the word of God. I cannot find one specific individual but realize there will be many events that reflect what Daniel says. Apocalyptic writings bring comfort to the oppressed as they ask “how long”. Yet, God’s word transcends all time. Maybe the comfort gained then versus now is not quite the same but does it only apply to one generation. We take apocalyptic literature and place limits on its meaning. Centuries from now I know someone will take Daniel 11 and apply the peser to the raz in a context they will understand. Daniel was meant to bring about immediate comfort to the people then and yet does the same for us now. I have enjoyed reading apocalyptic literature and have gained a new respect for its purpose. It is wisdom writing and requires the wisdom of God to interpret its meaning.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
YOU KNOW BETTER THAN I
“I thought I did what's right, I thought I had the answers, I thought I chose the surest road, But that road brought me here, So I put up a fight, And told you how to help me, Now just when I have given up
The truth is coming clear.”
Chorus: “You know better than I, You know the way, I've let go the need to know why, For You know better than I”
“If this has been a test, I cannot see the reason, But maybe knowing, I don't know is part of getting through, I tried to do what's best, But faith has made it easy, To see the best thing i can do, Is to put my trust in You.”
Chorus
Coda: “I saw one cloud and thought it was a sky, I saw a bird and thought that I could follow, But it was You who taught that bird to fly, If i let You reach me, Will You teach me.” (Repeat Chorus)
The lyrics printed above are from the song “You Know Better than I” in the movie “Joseph: King of Dreams”. After being sold into slavery, Joseph engages on a journey that perplexes his sensibilities. Where was God in all of this? Surely the trials and hardships being experienced by Joseph pointed to an issue of abandonment. Logic, while often wrong, dictates a thought process which has us to believe God’s blessings are synonymous with our successes. Consequently anything negative reflects God’s disapproval of a person. Joseph, the youngest of Jacob’s sons, was loved. However, Joseph’s brothers were jealous of this love and knew that to regain their father’s favor, the problem had to be eliminated. Jacob’s heart was broken at the loss of his son. Joseph also grieved for his loss. Once in Egypt, Joseph served faithfully and earned the favor of his master Potiphar. Just when things were going great, in a strange turn of events, Joseph was imprisoned over false accusations. My guess is Joseph was screaming out, “Oh come on!!!!” What is the point of Joseph’s journey?
Sometimes Christians believe their belief alone will spare them from the difficulties in life. Yet, have the promises of God included being spared from the difficulty experienced in the world? The answer for this question is a resounding “NO”. God does promise that while our situations may seem hopeless at times better days are coming as God’s kingdom continues to be made known by the church today but brought to completeness with the second coming of Christ. Not at one point did God abandon Joseph. God is always there and will continue to be there. The question is do we see God in the midst of our difficulties today?
I feel that each of us can relate to Joseph’s story at some point in our life. Recent events in my own life have left me feeling as though God is punishing me. As most of you know my family remained in Greenville while I came to Okatie. Approximately 4 hours (driving time) separate my family from me. After being appointed to Church of the Palms I knew deep down that the problems in my marriage would be exposed. Worst of all separation from Meghan and Jackson has been difficult. A marriage that is on the rocks is difficult enough, but with my children brought into the mix, emotions tend to become uncontrollable at times. Many nights have been spent sleepless missing two children who have brought me such great joy.
After receiving my appointment to Church of the Palms I was nervous. Not once did I even entertain the notion of asking for reconsideration (by seeking a different appointment closer to Greenville). I can relate to the first part of the song which says “I thought I had made all the right choices”. I have no regrets coming to CotP because I have met and been embraced by a loving congregation. We have experienced a few difficult moments but the blessings have been abundant. From missions to meetings to fellowship I know I have been blessed by God. In the midst of such joy my personal life has been a mess. The pain has not subsided. This has prompted me to seek a “leave of absence” from the conference. In other words I will be taking a break so I may get my personal life back in order.
As it turned out Joseph’s journey into Egypt was both a personal and professional blessing. Had it not been for Joseph, the Egyptians and Joseph’s family would have been devastated by the impending famine. While in my case as well as Church of the Palms we do not know what faces us in the future there is no doubt in my mind God will be made known through each of us. Like Joseph, I hope we will place our trust in the Triune God who knows us better than we know ourselves. Trusting in God enables our future to be bright and full of great joy. In God’s love we see clearly. I do love each and every one of you.
David Norrell
Thursday, March 17, 2011
No Longer a Christian
I read this particular article a few years ago. In fact I stumbled over it quite accidentally. After much thought I found value in the article as I examined my beliefs as they relate to my faith. Whether you as a reader agree or disagree with the content it certainly is food for thought. Please enjoy:
Published on Monday, October 25, 2004 by CommonDreams.org
No Longer a Christian
by Karen Horst Cobb
I was told in Sunday school the word "Christian" means to be Christ-like, but the message I hear daily on the airwaves from the �christian � media are words of war, violence, and aggression. Throughout this article I will spell Christian with a small c rather than a capital, since the term (as I usually hear it thrown about) does not refer to the teachings of the one I know as the Christ. I hear church goers call in to radio programs and explain that it was a mistake not to kill every living thing in Fallujah. They quote chapter and verse from the old testament about smiting the enemies of Israel. The fear of fighting the terrorists on our soil rather than across the globe causes the voices to be raised as they justify the latest prison scandal or other accounts of the horrors of war . The words they speak are words of destruction, aggression, dominance, revenge, fear and arrogance. The host and the callers echo the belief in the righteousness of our nation's killing. There are reminders to pray for our �Christian� president who is doing the work of the Lord: Right to Life, Second Amendment, sanctity of marriage, welfare reform, war, kill, evil liberals. . . so much to fight, so much to destroy.
Let me tell you about the Christ I know. He was conceived by an unmarried woman. He was not born into a family of privilege. He was a radical. He said, �It was said an eye for and eye and a tooth of a tooth, but now I say love your enemies and bless those who curse you.� He said, �Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.� (Matthew 5: 3-9) He said, �All those who are called by my name will enter the kingdom of heaven." He said, "People will know true believers if they have the fruit of the spirit--love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, self control.�
He knew he would be led like a sheep to the slaughter. He responded with �Father forgive them.� He explained that in Christ there is neither Jew nor gentile, slave or free male nor female. He explained that even to be angry is akin to murder. He said the temple of God is not a building, but is in the hearts of those are called by his name. He was called "the Prince of Peace." His final days were spent in prayer, so that he could endure what was set before him, not on how he could overpower the evil government of that day. When they came for him he was led away and didn�t resist his death sentence.
This is a stark contrast to the call of the religious Christian right, who vote for war and weapons, and suggest towns and villages be leveled to bring freedom and peace to the people. They proudly boast this country�s superiority, suggesting God has blessed our nation. Today, as I listened to a popular Christian news network, I was reminded that in the last days, even God�s elect will be deceived, (II Timothy 3:13). When the religious media moguls preaching prosperity spout their rhetoric, I am reminded of the difficulty Jesus described of a rich man�s ability to enter the kingdom of God. (Matthew 19: 24) (http://www.4religious-right.info/rr_economics.htm) Some who believe they are fighting evil will cry to the Lord, and he will say �I never knew you.� (Matthew 22). They will have a form or godliness but will deny the power (II Timothy 3:5) to move mountains through prayer. (Matthew 17:20). Jesus explained that he has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. (II Timothy 1:17) I wonder if the innocent moms and dads, brothers and sisters, and aunts and uncles, and grandmas and grandpas who were the victims of US military weapons (the never reported collateral damages we are protected from in the �liberal� nightly news) felt the love of Jesus with the shock and awe. I wonder if the surviving family members now understand His radical love and that they no longer have any need for weapons or defense.
The solutions to the social issues used to manipulate good, decent people have no resemblance to how Jesus responded to the social concerns of his time. He never once mentioned the �right to life� the year he was born King Herod ordered the execution of all babies. (Matthew 2:16). He knew that passing laws does not change the heart. As a follower of his teaching I believe in the right to life, including the children in Iraq who stumble onto land mines, cross the street at the wrong time, or who are snugly tucked within the warm bellies of their wounded or grieving mothers as US fighter jets fly overhead. These are living, breathing children. The killing of these little ones are never even reported, and our tax dollars pay for these bombs. I believe in the right to life for those in the United States who are unwanted and impoverished. I believe in the right to life of the naive kid who was promised by the recruiter they could choose a desk job and still get their education paid or could see the world or could accelerate their life or could play a very realistic video game from a cockpit.
I've worked at a shelter, and I know first hand the reality of unwanted children. I know the reality of this right wing rhetoric when week after week I begged and pleaded with people to give up only one night every three months to sit with these unwanted living children for a few hours while the overworked house parents had a night off. Of the few I found, many changed their minds when they discovered that they would need to wear rubber gloves to change the babies diapers. These �believers� stand on the street corners holding right to life signs and then vote against medical assistance for the mothers and their unwanted children creating an impossible existence for them. The few of these abortion activists who might adopt some of these unwanted children generally want the white and the healthy. The ones with hydrocephalous, tracheotomies, emotional/ mental problems and communicable diseases along with their life long medical expenses can be someone else�s problems.
I cringe as many christians vote for policies that deny help to the poor in our own county, who vote to support the war and military strength, assuring the latest weapons are developed and that the heavens will be dominated by the military of the United States. We develop electromagnetic weapons to shatter skulls , split the earth (http://www.raven1.net/emr13.htm) and silently destroy a body as a thief in the night. Studies are even now searching for the frequencies to override the freewill. These unbelievable technologies are a reality and DNA specific weapons can or soon will target a specific nationality (http://www.arabicnews.com/ansub/Daily/Day/981116/1998111619.html ).I weep as the waters Jesus walked on become contaminated with uranium. (http://www.greendove.net/resources3.htm) I grieve as the missiles fly through the atmosphere on the continent where Jesus rose into the sky, defying death and the grave and where the Holy Sprit first descended. I cry out at the horrors of war and the indignity of the prisons so close to where He took captivity captive. So I am no longer a Christian if Christianity has become what is presented to us by our Christian president and Christian media. I cannot support the right of the United States and Israel to develop and use the most heinous weapons ever imagined. I want no part of a temple built on the blood of the innocent. The sheep have been lead astray by the teachings of prosperity and misinterpretation of the final battle between good and evil. Many no longer can recognize the voice of the good Shepherd.
Some �good Christians� even work at weapons facilities. It is not a stretch to say that a woman who tightens a last rivet on a shiny new missile just off the assembly line might be the same woman who licks the gold star on the attendance chart in morning Sunday school. The missile could be launched by the kid in the youth group who reads the invocation and it will find it�s destiny at a �target of interest� which might or might not have been a result of good intelligence. The collection plate circulates children are taught to love their enemies and bless those who curse them.
The statements and lifestyle of Jesus are difficult for me to understand. What would he say to evil dictators? This God would not justify 15,000 or more deaths. Even the wrathful jealous God of the old testament spared whole cities for a few righteous souls. For Christians, to support mass killings as a way to prevent future deaths is not at all like Christ. He would not say,"When I am talking about war I am really talking about peace," like the self professed Christian President proudly states. Who but God has the right to determine what price a people should pay for their freedom? The religious leaders on the airwaves today respond to the voices of the few brave peacemakers who dare to speak out. They say that pacifism is insane, and that it doesn�t make sense, but what is forgotten is that logic and faith are separate entities. I believe in the example of Jesus and his admonition to love your enemies and bless those who curse you . Do I understand how this works on the global scale? Do I know what Jesus would say to all the world�s leaders? No, nor do I totally understand how the example of Christ�s life and his message of love works in the world today. That�s why I need faith. Am I always correct in my assessments and actions? No, that�s why I need grace. Am I brave and unafraid? No, that�s why I need the perfect love that casts out fear. Some put trust in Chariots and some in horses but I will remember the name of the lord our God--the Prince of Peace. Perhaps politics has no place for imitators of Christ.
Who will show the face of Christ to the world? Who will speak His radical message? I hear from these so called imitators of Christ that the pacifists are a collection of kids, hippies, socialists and communists who haven�t got a clue. Some of us, however, have come to our beliefs as a result of careful and prayerful study of the scriptures and admonishment from our elders. Many are Mennonite, Amish, Quaker and other Anabaptists, whose ancestors did not resist their torturers and were drowned, burnt at the stake and flogged for their pacifist stand. They truly followed the example of Christ, and their resistance against the catastrophic effects of the merging of church and state cost them a great price. Churches today have signed onto the government plan and have agreed to look the other way in exchange for tax free privileges. The true message of Christ still exists to some degree in the quiet of the land to peacemakers, but sadly these good people have been deceived by the angry words from a righteous sounding religious media majority broadcasting in cars and trucks and tractors all over our land ironically preaching the �good news of war for peace� and convincing 24-7 �liberal� bashing. I suspect there are many who share my sorrow at the loss of what it means to be Christ-like, but our voice is seldom heard. The blaring rhetoric drowns out the still small voice of the mighty God. Peace used be the opposite of war, Conservative used to mean the tendency to conserve resources. Liberal used to mean kind and generous, and Christian used to mean like Christ.
So I am no longer a Christian but just a person who continues trying to follow the example of Christ. I�ll let him call me what he wants when I see him face to face. Until then, I will pray that someday people like me will be able to reclaim the meaning of Christ�s identity, and the world will see the effects of the radical message of Christ�s love--the perfect love that casts out fear.
Karen Cobb is a freelance writer and artist in Santa Fe, NM and can be contacted at cairnhcobb@msn.com.
Published on Monday, October 25, 2004 by CommonDreams.org
No Longer a Christian
by Karen Horst Cobb
I was told in Sunday school the word "Christian" means to be Christ-like, but the message I hear daily on the airwaves from the �christian � media are words of war, violence, and aggression. Throughout this article I will spell Christian with a small c rather than a capital, since the term (as I usually hear it thrown about) does not refer to the teachings of the one I know as the Christ. I hear church goers call in to radio programs and explain that it was a mistake not to kill every living thing in Fallujah. They quote chapter and verse from the old testament about smiting the enemies of Israel. The fear of fighting the terrorists on our soil rather than across the globe causes the voices to be raised as they justify the latest prison scandal or other accounts of the horrors of war . The words they speak are words of destruction, aggression, dominance, revenge, fear and arrogance. The host and the callers echo the belief in the righteousness of our nation's killing. There are reminders to pray for our �Christian� president who is doing the work of the Lord: Right to Life, Second Amendment, sanctity of marriage, welfare reform, war, kill, evil liberals. . . so much to fight, so much to destroy.
Let me tell you about the Christ I know. He was conceived by an unmarried woman. He was not born into a family of privilege. He was a radical. He said, �It was said an eye for and eye and a tooth of a tooth, but now I say love your enemies and bless those who curse you.� He said, �Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called the children of God.� (Matthew 5: 3-9) He said, �All those who are called by my name will enter the kingdom of heaven." He said, "People will know true believers if they have the fruit of the spirit--love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, gentleness, self control.�
He knew he would be led like a sheep to the slaughter. He responded with �Father forgive them.� He explained that in Christ there is neither Jew nor gentile, slave or free male nor female. He explained that even to be angry is akin to murder. He said the temple of God is not a building, but is in the hearts of those are called by his name. He was called "the Prince of Peace." His final days were spent in prayer, so that he could endure what was set before him, not on how he could overpower the evil government of that day. When they came for him he was led away and didn�t resist his death sentence.
This is a stark contrast to the call of the religious Christian right, who vote for war and weapons, and suggest towns and villages be leveled to bring freedom and peace to the people. They proudly boast this country�s superiority, suggesting God has blessed our nation. Today, as I listened to a popular Christian news network, I was reminded that in the last days, even God�s elect will be deceived, (II Timothy 3:13). When the religious media moguls preaching prosperity spout their rhetoric, I am reminded of the difficulty Jesus described of a rich man�s ability to enter the kingdom of God. (Matthew 19: 24) (http://www.4religious-right.info/rr_economics.htm) Some who believe they are fighting evil will cry to the Lord, and he will say �I never knew you.� (Matthew 22). They will have a form or godliness but will deny the power (II Timothy 3:5) to move mountains through prayer. (Matthew 17:20). Jesus explained that he has not given us a spirit of fear, but a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind. (II Timothy 1:17) I wonder if the innocent moms and dads, brothers and sisters, and aunts and uncles, and grandmas and grandpas who were the victims of US military weapons (the never reported collateral damages we are protected from in the �liberal� nightly news) felt the love of Jesus with the shock and awe. I wonder if the surviving family members now understand His radical love and that they no longer have any need for weapons or defense.
The solutions to the social issues used to manipulate good, decent people have no resemblance to how Jesus responded to the social concerns of his time. He never once mentioned the �right to life� the year he was born King Herod ordered the execution of all babies. (Matthew 2:16). He knew that passing laws does not change the heart. As a follower of his teaching I believe in the right to life, including the children in Iraq who stumble onto land mines, cross the street at the wrong time, or who are snugly tucked within the warm bellies of their wounded or grieving mothers as US fighter jets fly overhead. These are living, breathing children. The killing of these little ones are never even reported, and our tax dollars pay for these bombs. I believe in the right to life for those in the United States who are unwanted and impoverished. I believe in the right to life of the naive kid who was promised by the recruiter they could choose a desk job and still get their education paid or could see the world or could accelerate their life or could play a very realistic video game from a cockpit.
I've worked at a shelter, and I know first hand the reality of unwanted children. I know the reality of this right wing rhetoric when week after week I begged and pleaded with people to give up only one night every three months to sit with these unwanted living children for a few hours while the overworked house parents had a night off. Of the few I found, many changed their minds when they discovered that they would need to wear rubber gloves to change the babies diapers. These �believers� stand on the street corners holding right to life signs and then vote against medical assistance for the mothers and their unwanted children creating an impossible existence for them. The few of these abortion activists who might adopt some of these unwanted children generally want the white and the healthy. The ones with hydrocephalous, tracheotomies, emotional/ mental problems and communicable diseases along with their life long medical expenses can be someone else�s problems.
I cringe as many christians vote for policies that deny help to the poor in our own county, who vote to support the war and military strength, assuring the latest weapons are developed and that the heavens will be dominated by the military of the United States. We develop electromagnetic weapons to shatter skulls , split the earth (http://www.raven1.net/emr13.htm) and silently destroy a body as a thief in the night. Studies are even now searching for the frequencies to override the freewill. These unbelievable technologies are a reality and DNA specific weapons can or soon will target a specific nationality (http://www.arabicnews.com/ansub/Daily/Day/981116/1998111619.html ).I weep as the waters Jesus walked on become contaminated with uranium. (http://www.greendove.net/resources3.htm) I grieve as the missiles fly through the atmosphere on the continent where Jesus rose into the sky, defying death and the grave and where the Holy Sprit first descended. I cry out at the horrors of war and the indignity of the prisons so close to where He took captivity captive. So I am no longer a Christian if Christianity has become what is presented to us by our Christian president and Christian media. I cannot support the right of the United States and Israel to develop and use the most heinous weapons ever imagined. I want no part of a temple built on the blood of the innocent. The sheep have been lead astray by the teachings of prosperity and misinterpretation of the final battle between good and evil. Many no longer can recognize the voice of the good Shepherd.
Some �good Christians� even work at weapons facilities. It is not a stretch to say that a woman who tightens a last rivet on a shiny new missile just off the assembly line might be the same woman who licks the gold star on the attendance chart in morning Sunday school. The missile could be launched by the kid in the youth group who reads the invocation and it will find it�s destiny at a �target of interest� which might or might not have been a result of good intelligence. The collection plate circulates children are taught to love their enemies and bless those who curse them.
The statements and lifestyle of Jesus are difficult for me to understand. What would he say to evil dictators? This God would not justify 15,000 or more deaths. Even the wrathful jealous God of the old testament spared whole cities for a few righteous souls. For Christians, to support mass killings as a way to prevent future deaths is not at all like Christ. He would not say,"When I am talking about war I am really talking about peace," like the self professed Christian President proudly states. Who but God has the right to determine what price a people should pay for their freedom? The religious leaders on the airwaves today respond to the voices of the few brave peacemakers who dare to speak out. They say that pacifism is insane, and that it doesn�t make sense, but what is forgotten is that logic and faith are separate entities. I believe in the example of Jesus and his admonition to love your enemies and bless those who curse you . Do I understand how this works on the global scale? Do I know what Jesus would say to all the world�s leaders? No, nor do I totally understand how the example of Christ�s life and his message of love works in the world today. That�s why I need faith. Am I always correct in my assessments and actions? No, that�s why I need grace. Am I brave and unafraid? No, that�s why I need the perfect love that casts out fear. Some put trust in Chariots and some in horses but I will remember the name of the lord our God--the Prince of Peace. Perhaps politics has no place for imitators of Christ.
Who will show the face of Christ to the world? Who will speak His radical message? I hear from these so called imitators of Christ that the pacifists are a collection of kids, hippies, socialists and communists who haven�t got a clue. Some of us, however, have come to our beliefs as a result of careful and prayerful study of the scriptures and admonishment from our elders. Many are Mennonite, Amish, Quaker and other Anabaptists, whose ancestors did not resist their torturers and were drowned, burnt at the stake and flogged for their pacifist stand. They truly followed the example of Christ, and their resistance against the catastrophic effects of the merging of church and state cost them a great price. Churches today have signed onto the government plan and have agreed to look the other way in exchange for tax free privileges. The true message of Christ still exists to some degree in the quiet of the land to peacemakers, but sadly these good people have been deceived by the angry words from a righteous sounding religious media majority broadcasting in cars and trucks and tractors all over our land ironically preaching the �good news of war for peace� and convincing 24-7 �liberal� bashing. I suspect there are many who share my sorrow at the loss of what it means to be Christ-like, but our voice is seldom heard. The blaring rhetoric drowns out the still small voice of the mighty God. Peace used be the opposite of war, Conservative used to mean the tendency to conserve resources. Liberal used to mean kind and generous, and Christian used to mean like Christ.
So I am no longer a Christian but just a person who continues trying to follow the example of Christ. I�ll let him call me what he wants when I see him face to face. Until then, I will pray that someday people like me will be able to reclaim the meaning of Christ�s identity, and the world will see the effects of the radical message of Christ�s love--the perfect love that casts out fear.
Karen Cobb is a freelance writer and artist in Santa Fe, NM and can be contacted at cairnhcobb@msn.com.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
There is no Shell gas station in heaven
The summer prior to my senior year in college I was prepared to make a trek from Montgomery, Alabama to Enid, Oklahoma where my parents lived at that time. My mother helped me prepare to make the trip by sending me cash and a Shell gas credit card. While cash is a staple item for every college student, by comparison a gas credit card is the Holy Grail. Better yet was the knowledge that I was traveling into oil country. There was no real need for concern because I had all I needed. A couple of days before my departure I made good use of the cash. Yes, it was a great night out on the town. Up at the crack of dawn I loaded my tired body along with all my possessions. Included were the necessary provisions to support life such as a Godfather’s pizza. What a beautiful day as I went through Tuscaloosa, Al., Aberdeen, Miss., and Tupelo, Miss. Northern Mississippi left me awe struck. Memphis was just around the corner from Oxford, Miss. Soon I would cross the mighty Mississippi River only to be mesmerized by the rice fields of East Arkansas. Everything was perfect. All the while during the trip stops had been made to purchase coffee or other beverages without much thought of conserving the remaining cash supply. Just outside of Little Rock I looked down at the gas gauge which edged closer and closer to the letter “E”. No problem since I had a gas credit card at my disposal. Funny thing about oil country, not many people live there. As a result, demand for gas stations where the people are not is very low. Using my last $10 for gas I saw a sign for a toll road to Muskogee, Ok. After paying the toll to get on the road my priority was to find a gas station, particularly Shell. Did you know not one Shell gas station was seen from I-40 and the toll road from Memphis to Muskogee? Upon reaching Muskogee I was out of cash and gas. If that wasn’t bad enough I then had to make a collect call (this was there era prior to cell phones). If only I had been more aware of my situation? Only when I was in trouble did I call out for help.
We tend to approach our faith life in much the same way. When everything in life is going well the world is a beautiful place that takes our breath away. Most of us cruise through life with little thought to what God has given us only to find we have squandered away a valuable gift. Then in a panic we search for a gas station (i.e. church). When nothing we want can be found we franticly seek alternate routes only to find the situation is made even worse. Wounded is our pride when we reach out for Jesus because we need help. If only we had realized that we needed help from the very start. If only we had listened to God from the very beginning the problems we are experiencing may not even exist.
Our journey starts now. Yes, it just so happens we reserve Ash Wednesday as the day to kick off the Lenten season. We should be engaged in such a journey all year long as we are intentional about recognizing our limitations and the need for help. This is help which can only be given by Jesus Christ. By opting for a way to the Father apart from the Son will find a journey falling short of its destination as our faith runs out of fuel. Lent is a time for self examination that hopefully points us to the one who has all we need for our journey. During this period of examination we need to ask ourselves what stands in between us and our destination. Will we trust Jesus to prepare us for our journey? Jesus has already made the journey and prepared the way for us. All we really need to do is trust in Christ to guide us through the wilderness.
Since that journey to Oklahoma I have never used a Shell gas station again nor will I. Also with the utmost confidence I will venture a guess by saying you will not find a Shell station in heaven.
We tend to approach our faith life in much the same way. When everything in life is going well the world is a beautiful place that takes our breath away. Most of us cruise through life with little thought to what God has given us only to find we have squandered away a valuable gift. Then in a panic we search for a gas station (i.e. church). When nothing we want can be found we franticly seek alternate routes only to find the situation is made even worse. Wounded is our pride when we reach out for Jesus because we need help. If only we had realized that we needed help from the very start. If only we had listened to God from the very beginning the problems we are experiencing may not even exist.
Our journey starts now. Yes, it just so happens we reserve Ash Wednesday as the day to kick off the Lenten season. We should be engaged in such a journey all year long as we are intentional about recognizing our limitations and the need for help. This is help which can only be given by Jesus Christ. By opting for a way to the Father apart from the Son will find a journey falling short of its destination as our faith runs out of fuel. Lent is a time for self examination that hopefully points us to the one who has all we need for our journey. During this period of examination we need to ask ourselves what stands in between us and our destination. Will we trust Jesus to prepare us for our journey? Jesus has already made the journey and prepared the way for us. All we really need to do is trust in Christ to guide us through the wilderness.
Since that journey to Oklahoma I have never used a Shell gas station again nor will I. Also with the utmost confidence I will venture a guess by saying you will not find a Shell station in heaven.
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
What if the church...?
What if the church, your church, closed its doors today, would it be missed? At one church I previously served the answer was “Yes, we have been going here for a long time” or “Yes, it would be sad if we no longer heard the chimes”. Even though the answer was “yes” the underlying reason for keeping the doors open was somewhat flawed. These responses beg the question “What is the purpose for keeping the doors open”? Are the members experiencing God? Does the community see the body of Christ?
My initial thought turns to Matthew 25:31-45. The church is called to feed the hungry, care for the sick, visit people in prison, and welcome strangers. In other words, the church is to be the body of Christ reaching out to the world in missions. As United Methodists we acknowledge we are part of the universal church reaching engaged in missions. This suggests the church pursues love of neighbor and strives to employ its spiritual gifts, so that the church is a place where a person may experience the reign of God. The church is where the body grows in love, and experiences the beginnings of eternal life. In the body of the church people engage in a fellowship that helps deepen a person’s faith as the church supports and prays for each other. The church is a place where people celebrate the love of God revealed in Christ. The church resides in the hearts of all believers.
While the church is nurturing the spiritual life of others, there can be a tendency to forget the church is also to take care of a person’s physical needs. In Luke 9:2 and 10:9 Jesus sent the twelve apostles, then later the 72, into the world to preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick. Not only is the church to proclaim the gospel so others may hear about the hope found in Jesus Christ, it is to be a physical presence in the world. The world is made up of real people who are hurting, torn apart by physical conflict, or are oppressed by situations beyond their control.
If the Kingdom of God is cemented by the belief that the Kingdom is both a present and future reality then shouldn’t the Kingdom of God is present in the church today through its activities? Through the activity of the church people get a glimpse of eternal life. Yet at the same time the church awaits the second coming of Christ to establish God’s Kingdom on earth. The church in the world today is to be the first place where the reign of God can be identified and witnessed. The reign of God is more than a personal vision of God’s future, as the church is to be a place which transforms the world until God’s love, justice, and mercy prevail throughout the whole world. It is also a future event where the world will experience a complete healing and redemption.
Christians look forward to the fulfillment of God’s work in the redemption of humanity and all of creation. This gives hope to persons individually and communally. This hope motivates a person’s service and witness for Christ, and helps them not to give up spreading God’s word. Christians are called to live in the world, not separate from the world. Living separately from the world emphasizes the Kingdom of God as a future event only. Engaging in social justice ministries, for example Meals on Wheels or prison ministry, brings the reality of God’s love to those who feel forgotten by society. In the busyness of the day, maybe we can take a break and pray for others. Christians help usher in the Kingdom of God by embracing others in the unconditional love of God. As the body of Christ, people are reaching out to a world in pain which is looking for hope. In this hope for the future, people find the desire to serve in God’s kingdom now.
Let’s Keep This Hope Alive!!!!
My initial thought turns to Matthew 25:31-45. The church is called to feed the hungry, care for the sick, visit people in prison, and welcome strangers. In other words, the church is to be the body of Christ reaching out to the world in missions. As United Methodists we acknowledge we are part of the universal church reaching engaged in missions. This suggests the church pursues love of neighbor and strives to employ its spiritual gifts, so that the church is a place where a person may experience the reign of God. The church is where the body grows in love, and experiences the beginnings of eternal life. In the body of the church people engage in a fellowship that helps deepen a person’s faith as the church supports and prays for each other. The church is a place where people celebrate the love of God revealed in Christ. The church resides in the hearts of all believers.
While the church is nurturing the spiritual life of others, there can be a tendency to forget the church is also to take care of a person’s physical needs. In Luke 9:2 and 10:9 Jesus sent the twelve apostles, then later the 72, into the world to preach the kingdom of God and heal the sick. Not only is the church to proclaim the gospel so others may hear about the hope found in Jesus Christ, it is to be a physical presence in the world. The world is made up of real people who are hurting, torn apart by physical conflict, or are oppressed by situations beyond their control.
If the Kingdom of God is cemented by the belief that the Kingdom is both a present and future reality then shouldn’t the Kingdom of God is present in the church today through its activities? Through the activity of the church people get a glimpse of eternal life. Yet at the same time the church awaits the second coming of Christ to establish God’s Kingdom on earth. The church in the world today is to be the first place where the reign of God can be identified and witnessed. The reign of God is more than a personal vision of God’s future, as the church is to be a place which transforms the world until God’s love, justice, and mercy prevail throughout the whole world. It is also a future event where the world will experience a complete healing and redemption.
Christians look forward to the fulfillment of God’s work in the redemption of humanity and all of creation. This gives hope to persons individually and communally. This hope motivates a person’s service and witness for Christ, and helps them not to give up spreading God’s word. Christians are called to live in the world, not separate from the world. Living separately from the world emphasizes the Kingdom of God as a future event only. Engaging in social justice ministries, for example Meals on Wheels or prison ministry, brings the reality of God’s love to those who feel forgotten by society. In the busyness of the day, maybe we can take a break and pray for others. Christians help usher in the Kingdom of God by embracing others in the unconditional love of God. As the body of Christ, people are reaching out to a world in pain which is looking for hope. In this hope for the future, people find the desire to serve in God’s kingdom now.
Let’s Keep This Hope Alive!!!!
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
What shall my Lenten offering be?
Have you decided what you will give up for Lent? Ash Wednesday is then the decision should be made. My choices are starting to narrow down a bit. Since I am not so sure what to choose, I will give up all of the remaining choices which are sweet potatoes, asparagus, cooked carrots, and cantaloupe. Here is the twist since these choices are given up on a daily basis. I am not really making a sacrifice but I make myself feel good. This is the same as a dyed in the wool Gamecock fan saying they will give up pulling for Clemson except when the two teams play each other. Giving up that which is of no real sacrifice means the act in itself is superficial.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season which is a time of personal reflection and examination. Lent is associated with what we plan to give up as a form of discipline. There is truly nothing wrong with that as it becomes a means of worshiping God. Opening ones self up to God through the denial of self is what we have been called to do as Christians. However, it is what motivates us which is the concern of what is given up for Lent. After all, Lent is about focusing our lives on Christ again through ways such as meditation on God’s word and prayer.
Do you realize approximately 85% of people growing up outside of the church perceive Christians to be hypocritical? We can obviously rationalize this characterization by blaming the actions of only a few people. For example, those saying one thing and doing another. However, I believe it is more subtle than that. Simply we may be trying to publicly portray ourselves in a favorable fashion especially on Ash Wednesday as ashes are spread on our foreheads. Our motivations and desires play an important role in the actions of our faith. When our goal is to portray ourselves in a favorable light through our acts of faith then we compromise our Christian walk. Yes, we do “good” since that is what Methodists do. Do no harm, do all the good that you can, and attend to all the ordinances of God. Yet, it can sometimes be perceived that when we do it may be seen as a form of offering that we may receive some form of social benefit. For example, monetary offerings provide tax breaks or participation in events bring about new contacts in church. Same can be said for our service in the church. Serving on a committee can bring about attention. Why are we on the committee? Are we advancing our own agenda or the message of Christ? Are we serving in a mission field solely for the purpose of earning favor with the Pastor or even God? Jesus warns us about our motives and desires when we engage in public acts of faith. “Do not draw attention tour selves for public acclamation but when you give, do not let others know what you are doing for our reward is in heaven. Not a future reward, but they are the ones we find in the company of God.”
Our faith should be one of authenticity. We should be real about who we really are. We should acknowledge the inconsistencies in our lives by being open and honest about our faults especially to God. Maybe take an honest assessment about our lives thus making ourselves transparent by acknowledging we are fallen people who need God in our lives. During the Season of Lent we should desire to do as Jesus has commanded by developing a balance in our spiritual walk. Let Jesus be a part of our whole being not just part. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s favor for God’s grace has been revealed in Jesus and through the cross. Let our hearts be transformed by Jesus so that they are pure. To understand that forgiveness is about restoration as children of God. Forgiveness transforms self centered people into God centered people. Our sense of purpose should be derived from acts of love and service. It is not dependent on who gets the credit since such acts are done in the authentic love of Jesus Christ. Our spiritual discipline strengthens the capacity to please God through our acts of faith all year. Do these acts without drawing attention, be public with our forms of worship, use them as a way to be a witness of Jesus. Let people see the smudge on your forehead as Lent begins. And if they ask, tell them about what it means for an imperfect people to live in the freedom Jesus Christ offers. What is the purpose of Lent? It calls us to reflection and repentance, invites us to prepare Good Friday and Easter, and reminds us of our humanity and sinfulness. In the end, it is about a grace filled return to the Lord our God. This year for Lent, I am giving up the notion that the Kingdom of God can't make it without me and I am the perfect Christian.
Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lenten season which is a time of personal reflection and examination. Lent is associated with what we plan to give up as a form of discipline. There is truly nothing wrong with that as it becomes a means of worshiping God. Opening ones self up to God through the denial of self is what we have been called to do as Christians. However, it is what motivates us which is the concern of what is given up for Lent. After all, Lent is about focusing our lives on Christ again through ways such as meditation on God’s word and prayer.
Do you realize approximately 85% of people growing up outside of the church perceive Christians to be hypocritical? We can obviously rationalize this characterization by blaming the actions of only a few people. For example, those saying one thing and doing another. However, I believe it is more subtle than that. Simply we may be trying to publicly portray ourselves in a favorable fashion especially on Ash Wednesday as ashes are spread on our foreheads. Our motivations and desires play an important role in the actions of our faith. When our goal is to portray ourselves in a favorable light through our acts of faith then we compromise our Christian walk. Yes, we do “good” since that is what Methodists do. Do no harm, do all the good that you can, and attend to all the ordinances of God. Yet, it can sometimes be perceived that when we do it may be seen as a form of offering that we may receive some form of social benefit. For example, monetary offerings provide tax breaks or participation in events bring about new contacts in church. Same can be said for our service in the church. Serving on a committee can bring about attention. Why are we on the committee? Are we advancing our own agenda or the message of Christ? Are we serving in a mission field solely for the purpose of earning favor with the Pastor or even God? Jesus warns us about our motives and desires when we engage in public acts of faith. “Do not draw attention tour selves for public acclamation but when you give, do not let others know what you are doing for our reward is in heaven. Not a future reward, but they are the ones we find in the company of God.”
Our faith should be one of authenticity. We should be real about who we really are. We should acknowledge the inconsistencies in our lives by being open and honest about our faults especially to God. Maybe take an honest assessment about our lives thus making ourselves transparent by acknowledging we are fallen people who need God in our lives. During the Season of Lent we should desire to do as Jesus has commanded by developing a balance in our spiritual walk. Let Jesus be a part of our whole being not just part. There is nothing we can do to earn God’s favor for God’s grace has been revealed in Jesus and through the cross. Let our hearts be transformed by Jesus so that they are pure. To understand that forgiveness is about restoration as children of God. Forgiveness transforms self centered people into God centered people. Our sense of purpose should be derived from acts of love and service. It is not dependent on who gets the credit since such acts are done in the authentic love of Jesus Christ. Our spiritual discipline strengthens the capacity to please God through our acts of faith all year. Do these acts without drawing attention, be public with our forms of worship, use them as a way to be a witness of Jesus. Let people see the smudge on your forehead as Lent begins. And if they ask, tell them about what it means for an imperfect people to live in the freedom Jesus Christ offers. What is the purpose of Lent? It calls us to reflection and repentance, invites us to prepare Good Friday and Easter, and reminds us of our humanity and sinfulness. In the end, it is about a grace filled return to the Lord our God. This year for Lent, I am giving up the notion that the Kingdom of God can't make it without me and I am the perfect Christian.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Wet, Wetter, and Wettest+
Over the last several weeks I have enjoyed two baptisms and one remembrance of baptism. The first baptism occurred on my way into church one morning when I knocked over my coffee thus pouring the liquid over the floor board of my new car. Yes, it was Trinitarian in nature. A week later a cup of coffee was placed in a cup holder when the car ran over a bump causing the liquid to splash. All I could say was “Rejoice and remember your baptism”! The second baptism came weeks later when I was washing dishes. My cell phone rang but before I could answer it I needed to dry my hands. Reaching for a dish towel I forgot that ear phones were attached to the phone. My phone was baptized by the time honored tradition of immersion. Again, it was Trinitarian in nature.
Often the means by which a person is baptized becomes the focus of a baptism. How many times have you been asked by what method did your baptism occur? This has become a sticking point between denominations as to which method is right or wrong. The act becomes more important than the reason.
What is baptism? Baptism can be understood as a means by which a person is initiated into the church. It is also one of the ways a person experiences the divine love of God. In the exercising of the “Baptismal Covenant’ in our Book of Worship, people of all ages are recognized as participants in covenant with God. Baptism is an outward and visible sign of God’s inward grace. Since baptism is God’s action it is an unrepeatable event. God never fails to uphold God’s side of the covenant. Therefore, the covenant is never broken. While it is a single non-repeatable act at a particular time, baptism cannot be limited to a moment in time. Baptism is God’s way of promising to fulfill divine salvation. Repentance, justification, new birth, and ultimately sanctification aides my understanding that baptism is also a part of the journey of holiness but not a requirement for justification. Since a person continues to sin throughout their journey, baptism is God’s promise to forgive sins when the believer repents.
Another controversial difference between denominations is who can be baptized? In the United Methodist Church we practice the baptism of children and infants. We affirm our practice through Scripture. Acts 2:38-41 and 16:15, 33 refers to household baptisms which included children. However, the most compelling Scripture reference for me talking about children is located in Matthew 19:13-15. Children were brought to Jesus for him to lay his hands on them, pray for them, and bless them. Baptism marks the beginning of a faith journey. In the baptism of infants and children, the parents of the children, and the faith community, share in the responsibility of nurturing the children’s faith. Children and infants are heirs to the inheritance of the Kingdom of God. One of my greatest joys came during an infant baptism service. The joy on the faces of those in attendance as they remembered their baptism, their children’s baptism, and knowing they would also be a part of the life of this young baby for some time to come let us know we are body of Christ nurtured by the Spirit.
Baptism gives us a chance to remember God’s grace through the Holy Spirit and the vows we took when we were received as members into the church. It is a special time of worship.
Often the means by which a person is baptized becomes the focus of a baptism. How many times have you been asked by what method did your baptism occur? This has become a sticking point between denominations as to which method is right or wrong. The act becomes more important than the reason.
What is baptism? Baptism can be understood as a means by which a person is initiated into the church. It is also one of the ways a person experiences the divine love of God. In the exercising of the “Baptismal Covenant’ in our Book of Worship, people of all ages are recognized as participants in covenant with God. Baptism is an outward and visible sign of God’s inward grace. Since baptism is God’s action it is an unrepeatable event. God never fails to uphold God’s side of the covenant. Therefore, the covenant is never broken. While it is a single non-repeatable act at a particular time, baptism cannot be limited to a moment in time. Baptism is God’s way of promising to fulfill divine salvation. Repentance, justification, new birth, and ultimately sanctification aides my understanding that baptism is also a part of the journey of holiness but not a requirement for justification. Since a person continues to sin throughout their journey, baptism is God’s promise to forgive sins when the believer repents.
Another controversial difference between denominations is who can be baptized? In the United Methodist Church we practice the baptism of children and infants. We affirm our practice through Scripture. Acts 2:38-41 and 16:15, 33 refers to household baptisms which included children. However, the most compelling Scripture reference for me talking about children is located in Matthew 19:13-15. Children were brought to Jesus for him to lay his hands on them, pray for them, and bless them. Baptism marks the beginning of a faith journey. In the baptism of infants and children, the parents of the children, and the faith community, share in the responsibility of nurturing the children’s faith. Children and infants are heirs to the inheritance of the Kingdom of God. One of my greatest joys came during an infant baptism service. The joy on the faces of those in attendance as they remembered their baptism, their children’s baptism, and knowing they would also be a part of the life of this young baby for some time to come let us know we are body of Christ nurtured by the Spirit.
Baptism gives us a chance to remember God’s grace through the Holy Spirit and the vows we took when we were received as members into the church. It is a special time of worship.
Sunday, February 13, 2011
Why?
Can you believe Ash Wednesday is less than a month away? It marks the beginning of Lent which can be thought of as a time a self-examination. Thinking back I recall those who have influenced my life the most. One such person was my high school civics teacher. One day he gave us a pop quiz using one word, “Why?” Pondering the question I thought “Why, Why what?” Part of me wanted to stand up and say “COME ON! REALLY? ARE YOU SERIOUS?” Determined, I put my pen to paper in hopes of giving an answer which would be awe inspiring. Proud of my answer I handed in what should have been considered a literary masterpiece that would influence society. My elation was short lived when I found out the answer was a single word, “Because”. The purpose of this quiz taught the class not to over complicate an answer to a simple question.
Think about this for a moment. Isn’t there a tendency for us to over think our explanations that we fail to provide an answer to the question? If someone approached us today about our beliefs, especially in the church, how would we respond? Often the responses to questions about our faith beliefs confuse others who never fully understand what we are saying. A simple question about “why” we believe what we do is complicated in trying to provide an eloquent theological dissertation describing our faith. During a round of golf a member of the foursome I was in asked me a question in regards to my theological stance on Scripture. He asked that if 100 people on an island had neverheard the good news of Jesus Christ and they died would they enter into the kingdom of heaven? At this moment there is no doubt in my mind that many of you are pondering this question. What is your answer and “Why”?
Before I could ever respond my golf buddy gave me an answer supported through the quoting of scriptural references. Told to me was the 100 folks on the island are denied God’s redemptive grace since they never professed Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Big theological words were used. Of course my limited cranial capacity proved to hinder my ability to understand his answer. LOL! All I could think about at the moment was Ezekiel 3:18 conveying the idea that if we are not sharing the word of God with those who have no knowledge then we will be held accountable for their death. In other words if we have knowledge of people on an island who have never heard the good news then we will be responsible if they die without knowledge of Jesus.
As for those on the island entering into the kingdom of heaven, well, let’s make sure they hear about God’s redemptive love.
Think about this for a moment. Isn’t there a tendency for us to over think our explanations that we fail to provide an answer to the question? If someone approached us today about our beliefs, especially in the church, how would we respond? Often the responses to questions about our faith beliefs confuse others who never fully understand what we are saying. A simple question about “why” we believe what we do is complicated in trying to provide an eloquent theological dissertation describing our faith. During a round of golf a member of the foursome I was in asked me a question in regards to my theological stance on Scripture. He asked that if 100 people on an island had neverheard the good news of Jesus Christ and they died would they enter into the kingdom of heaven? At this moment there is no doubt in my mind that many of you are pondering this question. What is your answer and “Why”?
Before I could ever respond my golf buddy gave me an answer supported through the quoting of scriptural references. Told to me was the 100 folks on the island are denied God’s redemptive grace since they never professed Jesus as their Lord and Savior. Big theological words were used. Of course my limited cranial capacity proved to hinder my ability to understand his answer. LOL! All I could think about at the moment was Ezekiel 3:18 conveying the idea that if we are not sharing the word of God with those who have no knowledge then we will be held accountable for their death. In other words if we have knowledge of people on an island who have never heard the good news then we will be responsible if they die without knowledge of Jesus.
As for those on the island entering into the kingdom of heaven, well, let’s make sure they hear about God’s redemptive love.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Three Essential Gifts
Genesis 12:1 Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father's house to the land that I will show you. 12:2 And I will make of you a great nation, and I will bless you and make your name great, so that you will be a blessing.
Purpose: Why does this church exist? The church is called to feed the hungry, care for the sick, visit people in prison, and welcome strangers. In other words, the church is to be the body of Christ reaching out to the world in missions. At Church of the Palms we acknowledge we are part of the universal church engaged in missions. This suggests the church pursues love of neighbor and strives to employ its spiritual gifts, so that the church is a place where a person may experience the reign of God. The church is where the body grows in love, and experiences the beginnings of eternal life. In the body of the church people engage in a fellowship that helps deepen a person’s faith as the church supports and prays for each other. The church is a place where people celebrate the love of God revealed in Christ. The church resides in the hearts of all believers. The church provides a glimpse of eternal life.
Time: Ecclesiastes 3 tells us that there is a time to every purpose under heaven. Not everything lasts forever. As sad of a thought this may be or as much as we would like to think our church will be where it is forever is simply not a reasonable notion. Going back home to Alabama I am reminded that change is active. New developments, new roads, or shopping centers exist wherefields use to be. What was the country side is no more. Noticed is how populations come and sometimes go, even culture and language are in a state of flux. An effective church is in tune with its surroundings and speaking a language the community in which it exists can understand. We should take advantage of every moment not letting any opportunities pass us by if possible. We should live life to the fullest.
Place on the map: Why this place? What was going through the minds of those who decided this was the sort of church that should be planted? If the church is to be the first place the Kingdom of God is experienced then The Kingdom of God is present in the church today through its activities, and at the same time it awaits the second coming of Christ to establish God’s Kingdom on earth. The church in the world today is to be the first place where the reign of God can be identified and witnessed. The reign of God is more than a personal vision of God’s future, as the church is to be a place which transforms the world until God’s love, justice, and mercy prevail throughout the whole world. It is also a future event where the world will experience a complete healing and redemption.
So much to be done and so little time.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Bless His Heart
I’m not sure if y’all have seen the latest news to come out of the State of Alabama. The newly elected Governor, Robert Bentley, was speaking in a church when he made the comment “Anybody here today who has not accepted Jesus Christ as their savior, I'm telling you, you're not my brother and you're not my sister, and I want to be your brother.” All I can say is “Bless his heart”. The pastor of the church where Bentley was speaking said “He was trying to relay something that is fundamental to our faith, that people who believe in Jesus are related. He didn't mean that he's not part of the brotherhood of humanity.” “Bless his heart”.
More often than not our whole year builds in the highly anticipated holidays creating excitement with warm attitudes then all of a sudden the anti-climax to the holiday season known as the month of January slaps us in the face. With not much on our agendas we settle back into the same old routines of prior to the holidays. Unfortunately this sometimes includes our faith. Instead of talking about the “Love come down at Christmas” an emphasis seems to be placed on that which separates us from others. When the message changes the people on the outside of the church are once again saying “See, it is the same old church. One we don’t want to be a part of”. In defense of the Alabama governor I am sure he really wasn’t trying to exclude anyone. Let this serve as a reminder that we are to be intentional about our faith and the good news by choosing words consistent with our beliefs.
Why is this so important? A friend of mine who served an old mill village church explained how church worked during the ‘40’s, ‘50’s, and early ‘60’s. Church and faith were not a choice but a condition of employment. Church attendance records were maintained on mill employees. Church pews were full yet such attendance was taken for granted. The spiritual life of church members was never developed. I remember as a child attending church with my mom and wondering why the man standing up preaching was so angry. All he did was holler at everyone attending the service (Bless his heart). However, the good news tells us a different story. In the story of the Prodigal Child clearly one child makes the right decision and one the wrong decision. Or is that the case? Yet, the father sees the “child on the outside” wanting to come back home. As the wayward child is embraced the other son gets mad. His attitude, including his words, is not consistent with the inheritance to be received.
Although I cannot speak for others I know that I have been both children in the story. During the slow time found in January I have found myself examining my life. It has not been pretty. My inconsistency is somewhat frightening “Bless my heart”. Rather than dwell on the past I realize a need to let that go by placing my trust in God. Instead of getting in the way of God maybe I should move over so God can work. I pray this is something we all should try to do. If we can, God’s love will be made known through our church and we will not hear people saying “Bless their heart”. I am truly blessed to be associated with the Church of the Palms and all who attend.
More often than not our whole year builds in the highly anticipated holidays creating excitement with warm attitudes then all of a sudden the anti-climax to the holiday season known as the month of January slaps us in the face. With not much on our agendas we settle back into the same old routines of prior to the holidays. Unfortunately this sometimes includes our faith. Instead of talking about the “Love come down at Christmas” an emphasis seems to be placed on that which separates us from others. When the message changes the people on the outside of the church are once again saying “See, it is the same old church. One we don’t want to be a part of”. In defense of the Alabama governor I am sure he really wasn’t trying to exclude anyone. Let this serve as a reminder that we are to be intentional about our faith and the good news by choosing words consistent with our beliefs.
Why is this so important? A friend of mine who served an old mill village church explained how church worked during the ‘40’s, ‘50’s, and early ‘60’s. Church and faith were not a choice but a condition of employment. Church attendance records were maintained on mill employees. Church pews were full yet such attendance was taken for granted. The spiritual life of church members was never developed. I remember as a child attending church with my mom and wondering why the man standing up preaching was so angry. All he did was holler at everyone attending the service (Bless his heart). However, the good news tells us a different story. In the story of the Prodigal Child clearly one child makes the right decision and one the wrong decision. Or is that the case? Yet, the father sees the “child on the outside” wanting to come back home. As the wayward child is embraced the other son gets mad. His attitude, including his words, is not consistent with the inheritance to be received.
Although I cannot speak for others I know that I have been both children in the story. During the slow time found in January I have found myself examining my life. It has not been pretty. My inconsistency is somewhat frightening “Bless my heart”. Rather than dwell on the past I realize a need to let that go by placing my trust in God. Instead of getting in the way of God maybe I should move over so God can work. I pray this is something we all should try to do. If we can, God’s love will be made known through our church and we will not hear people saying “Bless their heart”. I am truly blessed to be associated with the Church of the Palms and all who attend.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Love Revealed Unexpectedly
On the third Monday of every year our nation celebrates Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Across our land people in many cities, including my home town (Selma, Al.), will gather in remembrance of a man whose ideological stance was grounded in Biblical principal. People will tell their stories of how one man made things possible that might not have happened. How has your life been affected?
After graduating from college I took a job which required me to relocate from Alabama to Sumter, S.C. Not exactly the place a single person in his early 20’s desired at that time. I was a stranger in a new town who knew no one. I was all alone. One night while traveling down a dark country road the water pump on my car went out. The pre-cell phone era was a dark time but that didn’t really matter. Remembering some houses back up the road I drove my car to one and asked if they would be kind enough to call me a tow truck. What happened next took me by surprise. A young man walked with me back to my car and cared enough to stay until the tow truck came. Most notable about this young man were his physical features. One arm with his hand curled inwards took away the attention from legs of different sizes until he walked. I was an athlete in good shape who took much for granted. We engaged in some wonderful conversation that night. The tow truck came and I haven’t seen him since.
Did I happen to mention that he was also African-American? This young man did not care about my skin color or athletic ability. He looked beyond his own limitations by caring for my immediate needs. Isn’t this the message that Dr. King was trying to get across? Physical appearances, ethnic origins, or even gender are not signs of higher importance. Such features identify us as individuals not our net worth. In Jesus the Christ we are all one. Only we get in the way of God’s intended purpose for creation. In other words we are all God’s children. I learned a lot that night. God’s love reaches all people through all people.
After graduating from college I took a job which required me to relocate from Alabama to Sumter, S.C. Not exactly the place a single person in his early 20’s desired at that time. I was a stranger in a new town who knew no one. I was all alone. One night while traveling down a dark country road the water pump on my car went out. The pre-cell phone era was a dark time but that didn’t really matter. Remembering some houses back up the road I drove my car to one and asked if they would be kind enough to call me a tow truck. What happened next took me by surprise. A young man walked with me back to my car and cared enough to stay until the tow truck came. Most notable about this young man were his physical features. One arm with his hand curled inwards took away the attention from legs of different sizes until he walked. I was an athlete in good shape who took much for granted. We engaged in some wonderful conversation that night. The tow truck came and I haven’t seen him since.
Did I happen to mention that he was also African-American? This young man did not care about my skin color or athletic ability. He looked beyond his own limitations by caring for my immediate needs. Isn’t this the message that Dr. King was trying to get across? Physical appearances, ethnic origins, or even gender are not signs of higher importance. Such features identify us as individuals not our net worth. In Jesus the Christ we are all one. Only we get in the way of God’s intended purpose for creation. In other words we are all God’s children. I learned a lot that night. God’s love reaches all people through all people.
Apathy or Revolution: Your Choice
Does March 7, 1965 ring a bell to anyone? This day became known as “Bloody Sunday” when civil rights marchers left Brown Chapel A.M.E Church in Selma (my hometown) walking east towards Montgomery only to be greeted by local and state law enforcement who attacked them with billy clubs and tear gas. I really can’t imagine what must have been running through God’s mind when the events of this day occurred. This isn’t God’s intended purpose for creation, is it?
Looking back through history such an event mentioned above is not an isolated occurrence. In our country alone Native Americans, Irish immigrants, and women are some other groups who have also faced an oppressive system. World history gives a similar picture of select groups facing an evil force opposed to all that God stands for. Hitler used the term “useless eaters” in reference to Jews, those with a Slavic heritage, and even handicapped people just to mention a few. It seems one group dislikes another and attempts to justify its superiority over another. Even Jesus could not get things right as he associated with all the “wrong” people. Yet, for me, one conversation that I continue to remember is when a manager for Bilo (I worked at the same store) explained to me how American Christians were now God’s chosen people since the Jews lost that status because they do not believe Jesus to be the Messiah. I understand what N.T. Wright meant by the term ‘human evil” as it takes various forms to support a claim by one group that they are absolutely right.
However, what shames me the most is not what took place in my hometown or my country even what my race or gender has done to others. My shame lies in the apathy towards other groups since I have not been directly affected. Genesis 1:28-29 informs us of God’s intention not only for humankind but for all of His creation. Our stewardship in caring for creation was supposed to be a reflection of the image of God that we were created in. Apathy tends to lay the ground work for exploitation of others or things much less the wasting of resources that could be used to care for others. Isn’t ignoring the evil in this world which does not affect us the same as turning our backs on God’s calling in our lives?
This Sunday we will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. day in our church. While he was an instrumental factor in the civil rights movement back in the Sixties we cannot forget today what was started back then. Race relations still are not where they should be, equality between the genders does not exist, slavery is alive and well in our world today, and the Christian Church continues justifying its superior stance. As celebrations take place all over our nation Sunday and Monday honoring Dr. King let’s not loose sight of the bigger picture. Dr. King’s message in his speech “I Have a Dream” was about inclusiveness. The scope of his message included everyone although race relations were the focus of the civil rights movement and continues to be so today. After all, isn’t this the message of the Gospel? Did not Jesus come as a revolutionary opposing an exclusive system? God’s love for creation is for all not just some nor does God turn His back on creation? Let us take upon our shoulders what Dr. King started by reaching out to make a difference in our community. Let us become like Jesus and be revolutionaries for the Kingdom of God fighting that which is in opposition to God’s purpose for creation. Together, hand in hand, we will no longer turn our backs upon creation but will make a difference.
Looking back through history such an event mentioned above is not an isolated occurrence. In our country alone Native Americans, Irish immigrants, and women are some other groups who have also faced an oppressive system. World history gives a similar picture of select groups facing an evil force opposed to all that God stands for. Hitler used the term “useless eaters” in reference to Jews, those with a Slavic heritage, and even handicapped people just to mention a few. It seems one group dislikes another and attempts to justify its superiority over another. Even Jesus could not get things right as he associated with all the “wrong” people. Yet, for me, one conversation that I continue to remember is when a manager for Bilo (I worked at the same store) explained to me how American Christians were now God’s chosen people since the Jews lost that status because they do not believe Jesus to be the Messiah. I understand what N.T. Wright meant by the term ‘human evil” as it takes various forms to support a claim by one group that they are absolutely right.
However, what shames me the most is not what took place in my hometown or my country even what my race or gender has done to others. My shame lies in the apathy towards other groups since I have not been directly affected. Genesis 1:28-29 informs us of God’s intention not only for humankind but for all of His creation. Our stewardship in caring for creation was supposed to be a reflection of the image of God that we were created in. Apathy tends to lay the ground work for exploitation of others or things much less the wasting of resources that could be used to care for others. Isn’t ignoring the evil in this world which does not affect us the same as turning our backs on God’s calling in our lives?
This Sunday we will celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. day in our church. While he was an instrumental factor in the civil rights movement back in the Sixties we cannot forget today what was started back then. Race relations still are not where they should be, equality between the genders does not exist, slavery is alive and well in our world today, and the Christian Church continues justifying its superior stance. As celebrations take place all over our nation Sunday and Monday honoring Dr. King let’s not loose sight of the bigger picture. Dr. King’s message in his speech “I Have a Dream” was about inclusiveness. The scope of his message included everyone although race relations were the focus of the civil rights movement and continues to be so today. After all, isn’t this the message of the Gospel? Did not Jesus come as a revolutionary opposing an exclusive system? God’s love for creation is for all not just some nor does God turn His back on creation? Let us take upon our shoulders what Dr. King started by reaching out to make a difference in our community. Let us become like Jesus and be revolutionaries for the Kingdom of God fighting that which is in opposition to God’s purpose for creation. Together, hand in hand, we will no longer turn our backs upon creation but will make a difference.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Why is church important?
Why is church important? Really, think about it for a moment. Life would be simpler if we did not have to get up early on Sunday mornings. At times I have rolled over to shut off my alarm clock on a Sunday morning with the thought “I wonder if anyone will miss me if I don’t show up?”
Michael Slaughter, in a sermon, made the point “Followers of Jesus are not called to go to church, rather to be the church, sharing Christ’s life, extending Christ’s love, reflecting Christ’s light to a world that longs to see authentic faith”. In my opinion this one sentence could have been the entire sermon. However, that would be short selling the Good News we are called to share. Church is so much more than a place where we gather on Sunday mornings. During the exile of the Jewish people beginning in 722 B.C. and ending in approximately 536 B.C. saw a fascinating development. Prior to the exile the only place of worship was the Temple in Jerusalem. After the exile came a need for the people to stay connected to each other much less God. The development of a center (Synagogue) allowed for people to come together Scripture reading, prayer, study, and worship. Included in the function of the Synagogue was a center for the education of children. In essence, the church was taken to the people.
One issue which keeps coming to the front when we stop attending church is the privatization of our faith life. Rather than being exposed to other thoughts and ideas our views become limited. Eventually a skewed view of God is created including the message we present. A recent article posted at BostonHerald.com featured a group of individuals spreading the word of God. Yet, the message is about the end of the world (May 21, 2011). The common characteristic uniting these individual Christians is they are not associated with any particular church. Instead they apparently hold to a similar view of Scripture thus driving them to seek out others who believe the way they do.
If we are to live as followers of Jesus called to be the church we need a starting point. Study, prayer, fellowship, and worship is a foundation to be laid by the church. Through our participation and attendance such structures are possible. While the church has many functions it starts as a center for development found in the synagogues built during the Jewish exile. From here our missions and outreach are strengthened which enables us to present a more well rounded view of God. I look forward to seeing each and everyone of you in church.
Ephesians 4:11-16
11The gifts he gave were that some would be apostles, some prophets, some evangelists, some pastors and teachers, 12to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ, 13until all of us come to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to maturity, to the measure of the full stature of Christ. 14We must no longer be children, tossed to and fro and blown about by every wind of doctrine, by people’s trickery, by their craftiness in deceitful scheming. 15But speaking the truth in love, we must grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ, 16from whom the whole body, joined and knit together by every ligament with which it is equipped, as each part is working properly, promotes the body’s growth in building itself up in love.
Michael Slaughter, in a sermon, made the point “Followers of Jesus are not called to go to church, rather to be the church, sharing Christ’s life, extending Christ’s love, reflecting Christ’s light to a world that longs to see authentic faith”. In my opinion this one sentence could have been the entire sermon. However, that would be short selling the Good News we are called to share. Church is so much more than a place where we gather on Sunday mornings. During the exile of the Jewish people beginning in 722 B.C. and ending in approximately 536 B.C. saw a fascinating development. Prior to the exile the only place of worship was the Temple in Jerusalem. After the exile came a need for the people to stay connected to each other much less God. The development of a center (Synagogue) allowed for people to come together Scripture reading, prayer, study, and worship. Included in the function of the Synagogue was a center for the education of children. In essence, the church was taken to the people.
One issue which keeps coming to the front when we stop attending church is the privatization of our faith life. Rather than being exposed to other thoughts and ideas our views become limited. Eventually a skewed view of God is created including the message we present. A recent article posted at BostonHerald.com featured a group of individuals spreading the word of God. Yet, the message is about the end of the world (May 21, 2011). The common characteristic uniting these individual Christians is they are not associated with any particular church. Instead they apparently hold to a similar view of Scripture thus driving them to seek out others who believe the way they do.
If we are to live as followers of Jesus called to be the church we need a starting point. Study, prayer, fellowship, and worship is a foundation to be laid by the church. Through our participation and attendance such structures are possible. While the church has many functions it starts as a center for development found in the synagogues built during the Jewish exile. From here our missions and outreach are strengthened which enables us to present a more well rounded view of God. I look forward to seeing each and everyone of you in church.
Sunday, December 26, 2010
I Believe in Compassion and Grace
During a Christian Believer Bible study a question posed was “Why do you believe?” Maybe a better way to phrase the question would have been “Why are you a Christian?” The one answer participants were not allowed to give was “The Bible says so.” Can you describe the foundation of our faith? Is your foundation based on compassion and grace or because the Bible says so?
I met Ryan years ago while working for Southern Wines. I was a field sales supervisor and he worked for a supplier whose product line was represented by Southern Wines. I had met Ryan before but had never worked with him. On occasions suppliers or winery representatives would come into the market hoping to obtain extra business. Ryan was scheduled to ride with me. Any time two people spend long periods in close quarters with each other general conversations turn more personal. Before I knew it we were talking about the “blue” laws in the state of South Carolina versus the west coast. Ryan’s next comment stunned me. There was, at that time, for him to buy a bottle of wine on a Sunday. He disagreed with the Judeo-Christian foundation for the laws in this country. Now I was insulted. The more Ryan carried on the more I got upset. At one point I thought about stopping my car, letting him out on the side of the road in the middle of the country, and calling someone at my office to come pick him up. I’m glad I didn’t do that for two reasons. First, what would that have said about my claims of being a Christian. It might reinforce the notion by some Christianity is judgmental and uncaring. Second, Ryan is Jewish, his Sabbath is on Saturday. Sunday is just another day to him.
In an article from Christianity Today magazine Drew Dyck addresses the issues surrounding the exodus, especially among the 20-30 year olds, from the church. After reading the article one fact comes to the front, no one really knows because the issues vary widely. Drew, however, makes a good point. Rather than focus on the cause of the issues how do we as Christians respond to objections to the church by others. He generalized two basic responses with one being Christians go on the offensive. It is true, we do that as Christians. Think of how I almost responded to Ryan. Had there been a “come-to-Jesus-meeting” between us, had he not accepted my point of view, then I was ready to put him on the side of the road. The second basic response by Christians is brain freeze. They can’t offer any intellectual dialogue with a doubter. About all they can say is “The Bible says so!”
Let me say now that we as Christians need to show compassion and grace in the same way Jesus offered compassion and grace to us. The Christian faith is a matter of the heart but God has also given us the ability to reason. Since we are capable of carrying intelligent conversations lets make use of it. How would you respond to a doubter? As we enter into the New Year we can reexamine how we as a church and as individuals who profess a belief in Christ are presenting the message. Maybe we can start by listening intently to others. It is possible they are seeking answers. If we let our selves be offended we will never be able to present Jesus in a positive light. Take advantage of Bible studies, Sunday school classes, or study on your own. The more we study the better equipped we are. If we don’t know the answer, then say so, don’t utter “Because the Bible says so”. Admit we don’t know it then research the subject matter. Doubters and non-Christians may gain a deeper respect for Christians. By the way, Ryan and I had a great day, sold a lot of wine, and we became good friends.
I met Ryan years ago while working for Southern Wines. I was a field sales supervisor and he worked for a supplier whose product line was represented by Southern Wines. I had met Ryan before but had never worked with him. On occasions suppliers or winery representatives would come into the market hoping to obtain extra business. Ryan was scheduled to ride with me. Any time two people spend long periods in close quarters with each other general conversations turn more personal. Before I knew it we were talking about the “blue” laws in the state of South Carolina versus the west coast. Ryan’s next comment stunned me. There was, at that time, for him to buy a bottle of wine on a Sunday. He disagreed with the Judeo-Christian foundation for the laws in this country. Now I was insulted. The more Ryan carried on the more I got upset. At one point I thought about stopping my car, letting him out on the side of the road in the middle of the country, and calling someone at my office to come pick him up. I’m glad I didn’t do that for two reasons. First, what would that have said about my claims of being a Christian. It might reinforce the notion by some Christianity is judgmental and uncaring. Second, Ryan is Jewish, his Sabbath is on Saturday. Sunday is just another day to him.
In an article from Christianity Today magazine Drew Dyck addresses the issues surrounding the exodus, especially among the 20-30 year olds, from the church. After reading the article one fact comes to the front, no one really knows because the issues vary widely. Drew, however, makes a good point. Rather than focus on the cause of the issues how do we as Christians respond to objections to the church by others. He generalized two basic responses with one being Christians go on the offensive. It is true, we do that as Christians. Think of how I almost responded to Ryan. Had there been a “come-to-Jesus-meeting” between us, had he not accepted my point of view, then I was ready to put him on the side of the road. The second basic response by Christians is brain freeze. They can’t offer any intellectual dialogue with a doubter. About all they can say is “The Bible says so!”
Let me say now that we as Christians need to show compassion and grace in the same way Jesus offered compassion and grace to us. The Christian faith is a matter of the heart but God has also given us the ability to reason. Since we are capable of carrying intelligent conversations lets make use of it. How would you respond to a doubter? As we enter into the New Year we can reexamine how we as a church and as individuals who profess a belief in Christ are presenting the message. Maybe we can start by listening intently to others. It is possible they are seeking answers. If we let our selves be offended we will never be able to present Jesus in a positive light. Take advantage of Bible studies, Sunday school classes, or study on your own. The more we study the better equipped we are. If we don’t know the answer, then say so, don’t utter “Because the Bible says so”. Admit we don’t know it then research the subject matter. Doubters and non-Christians may gain a deeper respect for Christians. By the way, Ryan and I had a great day, sold a lot of wine, and we became good friends.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Y'all!!!!
The Grace and Peace of our risen Lord Jesus be with you. What an eventful six months it has been. In all honesty, I’m not really sure where to begin. From my initial white knuckle drive down Hwy. 278 on July 3rd to what shall be a memorable week starting with our Christmas Eve service through Epiphany Sunday, every moment has been special. So much I have seen in the ministry of Church of the Palms complimented by the passion of its members. Your love is amazing. Let me express it this way:
Thank you, Church of the Palms for your love and grace. I am so excited about what 2011 holds for our ministries. See y’all soon!
Touched by Love
By
David Norrell
My future is haunted by my past
Many times I have strayed from your path using my own light
When that light dimmed, fear overcame me
Yet, your presence I did not seek
Your unmerited grace I have not earned
Happiness is deceiving
Outward appearance masked the pain deep in my soul
I lived as though your existence was a myth
Love, once a companion, abandoned me
Even you’re your love seemed distant
Walls were erected, moats flooded
Barriers built by human hands
Failed to protect my heart which had grown cold
I pushed but you pushed back
Your love was draped like a shawl around my neck
My heart is made warm by your touch
From my childhood till now made known through others in my life
Never has your perfect love left me
I don’t understand though
Why do you still claim me?
Oh God, found in you is every desire I want
Continue to perfect me in your tenderness
Please give me strength and stamina and words
Include the heart of a servant
So all will know what it means to be touched by unconditional love.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Express Check Out
I love walking into Wal-Mart! The odds of being entertained by other people increase exponentially. Check out time is always fun especially express lanes whether they are self-check or 20 items or less. Through observation some of the conclusions that can be made are:
1) People can’t count. 20 items means 20 or less. Close only counts for horseshoes and hand grenades.
2) People do not know what they are doing. There have been many times I thought of offering help to get them out of the way.
3) When paying by check people wait until the end of the transaction to make check out. Please folks, get with the time and use a debit card. IT’S FASTER.
4) When the transaction is completed and change handed back by the cashier, people seem paralyzed by some traumatic force. Move out of the way so others can get through.
5) When purchasing products people seen to choose the ones with out scan bars or prices. Please people, pay attention so check out time is more efficient.
I observed a woman the other day standing in the 20 items or less line getting frustrated with the cashier. The cashier was waiting on a price check to complete a transaction. Within minutes frustration was verbally expressed by the woman waiting to be checked out. Obviously she was in a hurry. Not much of a Spirit of Charity was it. Of course I thought to myself “Lady, if you are in a hurry maybe you should have chosen a different line”. My Spirit of Charity during this advent season was no better than hers. It’s all about “me”.
After thinking about this incident a thought occurred to me. Yes, I realize thinking is a dangerous pastime for me. But what if Heaven has express lines to check out sins? Surely this would expedite the righteous person’s entry into God’s kingdom, correct? I wonder how many people would actually use the line that says “20 sins or less”. Oh, I’m sure some will try, including me. Can’t you imagine how the events would play out? “Mr. Norrell there seems to be a problem. Your buggy is full. This is the express checkout. Go to another register.” With my luck not only will the line I need to stand in take forever but nothing will be priced or have a scan bar. Standing in line will be like the Snickers commercial, “Not going anywhere anytime soon?” It’s all about “me”.
Isn’t Advent about preparing for the hope to be experienced at Christmas? God came to live with His creation, God is living with His creation, and God will come again restoring His creation in the perfect order which it was created. By expediting our check out speed it seems we are more concerned with our individual status while ignoring the needs of others. When did faith become all about “me”? During this time of the year let us remember the love we have received from God. Love is expressed in different forms such as that we have with our friends, family, spouse, or romantic interests. All is grounded in the perfect love of God (agape). Not only is this an unconditional love that can describe how God loves us where we are but it is the love we should also have for each other. The greatest gift we will receive at Christmas? I believe it to be the life-giving love which comes down from Heaven. Let us take this abundant gift and share it with everyone we come into contact with. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 13 “Love is patient, love is kind…” describing how we should express love to others. We desire affirmation in our relationships. Share God’s affirming love with others should be our desire since we have accepted God’s gift of redemption. Then maybe, the check out lines won’t be stressful but filled with grace. Now it’s all about “us”.
1) People can’t count. 20 items means 20 or less. Close only counts for horseshoes and hand grenades.
2) People do not know what they are doing. There have been many times I thought of offering help to get them out of the way.
3) When paying by check people wait until the end of the transaction to make check out. Please folks, get with the time and use a debit card. IT’S FASTER.
4) When the transaction is completed and change handed back by the cashier, people seem paralyzed by some traumatic force. Move out of the way so others can get through.
5) When purchasing products people seen to choose the ones with out scan bars or prices. Please people, pay attention so check out time is more efficient.
I observed a woman the other day standing in the 20 items or less line getting frustrated with the cashier. The cashier was waiting on a price check to complete a transaction. Within minutes frustration was verbally expressed by the woman waiting to be checked out. Obviously she was in a hurry. Not much of a Spirit of Charity was it. Of course I thought to myself “Lady, if you are in a hurry maybe you should have chosen a different line”. My Spirit of Charity during this advent season was no better than hers. It’s all about “me”.
After thinking about this incident a thought occurred to me. Yes, I realize thinking is a dangerous pastime for me. But what if Heaven has express lines to check out sins? Surely this would expedite the righteous person’s entry into God’s kingdom, correct? I wonder how many people would actually use the line that says “20 sins or less”. Oh, I’m sure some will try, including me. Can’t you imagine how the events would play out? “Mr. Norrell there seems to be a problem. Your buggy is full. This is the express checkout. Go to another register.” With my luck not only will the line I need to stand in take forever but nothing will be priced or have a scan bar. Standing in line will be like the Snickers commercial, “Not going anywhere anytime soon?” It’s all about “me”.
Isn’t Advent about preparing for the hope to be experienced at Christmas? God came to live with His creation, God is living with His creation, and God will come again restoring His creation in the perfect order which it was created. By expediting our check out speed it seems we are more concerned with our individual status while ignoring the needs of others. When did faith become all about “me”? During this time of the year let us remember the love we have received from God. Love is expressed in different forms such as that we have with our friends, family, spouse, or romantic interests. All is grounded in the perfect love of God (agape). Not only is this an unconditional love that can describe how God loves us where we are but it is the love we should also have for each other. The greatest gift we will receive at Christmas? I believe it to be the life-giving love which comes down from Heaven. Let us take this abundant gift and share it with everyone we come into contact with. Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 13 “Love is patient, love is kind…” describing how we should express love to others. We desire affirmation in our relationships. Share God’s affirming love with others should be our desire since we have accepted God’s gift of redemption. Then maybe, the check out lines won’t be stressful but filled with grace. Now it’s all about “us”.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Dare to Love
C.S. Lewis once said, “To love at all is to be vulnerable. Love anything, and your heart will certainly be wrung and possibly broken. If you want to make sure of keeping it intact, you must give your heart to no one, not even to an animal. Wrap it carefully round with hobbies and little luxuries; avoid all entanglements; lock it up safe in the casket or coffin of your selfishness. But in that casket- safe, dark, motionless, airless--it will change. It will not be broken; it will become unbreakable, impenetrable, irredeemable.”
During the summer of 2008 I began preparing the written work for ordination as required by the Book of Discipline. The feedback from my writings told me I had made several mistakes. I still had the oral interviews waiting for me in November 2008 where I knew grace would abound and the love of the Conference Board of Ordained ministry would be shown [Laughing]. Prior to the oral interviews the head of clergy services asked me to bring a copy of a transcript showing I had completed Black Studies as required for ordination. I knew I had time so it was tabled for a short period. Notification of a Wednesday afternoon interview for the week prior to Thanksgiving arrived at my house. I remembered my transcript so I drove to Due West the week of the interview in order that I get an official copy from Erskine Seminary. The registrar was sick therefore she was not in the office on Monday or Tuesday. This meant I needed to obtain my transcript on the morning of the interview. Getting up extra early I made the trek to Due West. Timing was essential so that I would arrive on time to meet the Board of Ordained Ministry. My route to the interview would be from Due West where I would drive to Greenwood, pick up Highway 72 to Clinton then jump on I-26 heading south to a Newberry exit, following Highway 34 towards Winnsboro where I would reach my destination located at White Oak. In a perfect world it was a good plan. We do not live in a perfect world.
The events of the day went as follows. Walking into the Registrar’s office I was told she was eating breakfast. I informed the person why I was there and they told me she would be back in 10 minutes. No problem I thought. My schedule can handle this. An hour passed before I found anyone who knew where the registrar was. The person I needed walked in apologizing saying she had forgotten. Real problem as I was now way behind. This would be cutting things close but it was still doable for me to arrive at White Oak early. All was going according to plan after that until I was stopped for speeding as I entered Clinton. I did my best to inform the state trooper I was on a mission for God but he wasn’t interested. Now I was in a real time crunch. Knowing I had to risk another ticket I pressed down on the accelerator. Finally, with 15 minutes to spare I arrived at the interview location. My mind was racing and the heart beating fast; I never had a chance to gain any composure before my first interview. After I was seated in the first interview room with people staring at me the first question posed to me addressed how was I dealing with my learning disability (dyslexia). “What?!!!!! What disability?” The interviewer said “It is mentioned in your file”. “Stick a fork in me because I am done” I mumbled to myself. I never gained my composure for the rest of the day. In the next interview I could not formulate a coherent thought. The interviewer asked me if I had a learning disability. I thought about asking if anyone wanted to come home with me and kick my dog too. I was continued for another year since I did not pass the BOM. My world had crumbled. I had failed.
The drive home was long and joyless. I passed by the cemetery in Chester where my grandparents are buried. I didn’t go in. Pulling over looking in trying to make sense of everything I thought “Why did y’all have to die when I really need y’all now”? Questions and thoughts crowded my mind. I did not want to see anyone from family to colleagues. I did not want to deal with friends. C.S. Lewis describes a way to protect the heart from all pain. The problem with pushing away love is joy ceases to exist. I did just that. However, God was at work in a way I could not see in the moment. No, God did not cause the problem. He probably thought I had gotten a little big for my britches. God then said “Okay you handle it as best as you see fit”. God was sitting at rock bottom to catch me. I knew I had to tell PPRC of my failure. The members of Liberty Hill UMC embraced me tightly. I learned how to open my heart to love. I loved them deeply but kept them at arms length. My friends, well, I also had put just enough distance between them and me. They kept on loving. Why I will never know. I met with mentors assigned by the BOM who showed me grace. When Annual Conference 2009 came I will admit I did not want to go. Something inside of me kept me there as opposed to checking in then driving home. I saw my interviewers who showed me the grace and love of God. My pain, hurt, and self-control faded as I opened myself up to God’s perfect love. I made it through the next year and now I find myself at the Church of the Palms. Joy abounds in the love shown to me by others and by you, CotP, as well.
How do you define joy? Where have you seen God at work lately? We will all experience times in our lives which push us down. Maybe walls come up to protect the heart from the pain of love. We withdraw into a joyless void. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us “…the joy of the Lord is our strength”. Drawing upon that joy allows us to open our hearts to love. Daring to love means we open ourselves up to potential hurt but also the greatest joy of all, God’s unconditional love. We live in a community which hurts. Jobs at times are scarce. People are rejected. Many reasons exist as why folks hurt. How can we take the message of joy this advent season to others so they may see the unconditional love of God in Jesus Christ?
Joy is not a surface-level happy – it is deeply seated in one’s character. Joy may not always manifest itself in smiles and laughter, but rather in grace and assurance. Joy might be described as knowing something better exists, and holding onto that which is better.
During the summer of 2008 I began preparing the written work for ordination as required by the Book of Discipline. The feedback from my writings told me I had made several mistakes. I still had the oral interviews waiting for me in November 2008 where I knew grace would abound and the love of the Conference Board of Ordained ministry would be shown [Laughing]. Prior to the oral interviews the head of clergy services asked me to bring a copy of a transcript showing I had completed Black Studies as required for ordination. I knew I had time so it was tabled for a short period. Notification of a Wednesday afternoon interview for the week prior to Thanksgiving arrived at my house. I remembered my transcript so I drove to Due West the week of the interview in order that I get an official copy from Erskine Seminary. The registrar was sick therefore she was not in the office on Monday or Tuesday. This meant I needed to obtain my transcript on the morning of the interview. Getting up extra early I made the trek to Due West. Timing was essential so that I would arrive on time to meet the Board of Ordained Ministry. My route to the interview would be from Due West where I would drive to Greenwood, pick up Highway 72 to Clinton then jump on I-26 heading south to a Newberry exit, following Highway 34 towards Winnsboro where I would reach my destination located at White Oak. In a perfect world it was a good plan. We do not live in a perfect world.
The events of the day went as follows. Walking into the Registrar’s office I was told she was eating breakfast. I informed the person why I was there and they told me she would be back in 10 minutes. No problem I thought. My schedule can handle this. An hour passed before I found anyone who knew where the registrar was. The person I needed walked in apologizing saying she had forgotten. Real problem as I was now way behind. This would be cutting things close but it was still doable for me to arrive at White Oak early. All was going according to plan after that until I was stopped for speeding as I entered Clinton. I did my best to inform the state trooper I was on a mission for God but he wasn’t interested. Now I was in a real time crunch. Knowing I had to risk another ticket I pressed down on the accelerator. Finally, with 15 minutes to spare I arrived at the interview location. My mind was racing and the heart beating fast; I never had a chance to gain any composure before my first interview. After I was seated in the first interview room with people staring at me the first question posed to me addressed how was I dealing with my learning disability (dyslexia). “What?!!!!! What disability?” The interviewer said “It is mentioned in your file”. “Stick a fork in me because I am done” I mumbled to myself. I never gained my composure for the rest of the day. In the next interview I could not formulate a coherent thought. The interviewer asked me if I had a learning disability. I thought about asking if anyone wanted to come home with me and kick my dog too. I was continued for another year since I did not pass the BOM. My world had crumbled. I had failed.
The drive home was long and joyless. I passed by the cemetery in Chester where my grandparents are buried. I didn’t go in. Pulling over looking in trying to make sense of everything I thought “Why did y’all have to die when I really need y’all now”? Questions and thoughts crowded my mind. I did not want to see anyone from family to colleagues. I did not want to deal with friends. C.S. Lewis describes a way to protect the heart from all pain. The problem with pushing away love is joy ceases to exist. I did just that. However, God was at work in a way I could not see in the moment. No, God did not cause the problem. He probably thought I had gotten a little big for my britches. God then said “Okay you handle it as best as you see fit”. God was sitting at rock bottom to catch me. I knew I had to tell PPRC of my failure. The members of Liberty Hill UMC embraced me tightly. I learned how to open my heart to love. I loved them deeply but kept them at arms length. My friends, well, I also had put just enough distance between them and me. They kept on loving. Why I will never know. I met with mentors assigned by the BOM who showed me grace. When Annual Conference 2009 came I will admit I did not want to go. Something inside of me kept me there as opposed to checking in then driving home. I saw my interviewers who showed me the grace and love of God. My pain, hurt, and self-control faded as I opened myself up to God’s perfect love. I made it through the next year and now I find myself at the Church of the Palms. Joy abounds in the love shown to me by others and by you, CotP, as well.
How do you define joy? Where have you seen God at work lately? We will all experience times in our lives which push us down. Maybe walls come up to protect the heart from the pain of love. We withdraw into a joyless void. Nehemiah 8:10 tells us “…the joy of the Lord is our strength”. Drawing upon that joy allows us to open our hearts to love. Daring to love means we open ourselves up to potential hurt but also the greatest joy of all, God’s unconditional love. We live in a community which hurts. Jobs at times are scarce. People are rejected. Many reasons exist as why folks hurt. How can we take the message of joy this advent season to others so they may see the unconditional love of God in Jesus Christ?
Joy is not a surface-level happy – it is deeply seated in one’s character. Joy may not always manifest itself in smiles and laughter, but rather in grace and assurance. Joy might be described as knowing something better exists, and holding onto that which is better.
Monday, December 6, 2010
"We wish you a ..."
Which is your choice, Merry Christmas or Merry Xmas or Happy Holidays? Every year this debate surfaces the closer we get to Christmas. Listening to His Radio, WLFJ, in my pick-up one day this issue was the source of a listener generated poll. Putting Christ back into Christmas dominated listener views as one might expect. His Radio was even handing out stickers to put on clothing which said “Wish me a Merry Christmas”. This discussion went on for a week as listeners constantly called the station. The station soon aired a holiday greeting that said “From our family to yours, wishing you a happy holiday”. I about wrecked my pick-up because I was laughing so hard.
Which greeting is your choice? The “X” in Xmas is the Greek letter “Chi” which is the first letter in the Greek word for Christ. It is the holiday season, so “Happy Holidays” recognizes this season as a festive time of year. It seems either greeting will suffice. Oh yeah, I do prefer “Merry Christmas”. Preference depends upon one’s comfort level. During Christmas our thoughts often turn towards parties or entertaining friends. Families gather together in the warmth of homes filled with love. The Christmas Story in the Gospel of Luke 2 may be read at home or heard in a church service pointing toward God’s promises. Isn’t this season to be about hope? How does a holiday debate promote peace?
Regardless of the greeting, this time of the year promotes peace. The meaning of “Peace on earth and goodwill towards men” is forgotten in the debate. Not long ago we, Church of the Palms, served as a host church for Family Promise. I, for one, am grateful for the many churches which participate in this program. I served as one of the over night chaperones in case someone needed anything. Breakfast was prepared the next morning for the families before work and or school. I walked around a corner and was greeted by the joy of a smiling face of a child. For this young girl, someone cared enough to make sure her needs were met and that she was loved wherever she happened to be. Isn’t this the hope we look for during Christmas? No mater the preference of greeting, if we live out the words of hope there will be “Peace on earth and goodwill towards all humankind”.
Which greeting is your choice? The “X” in Xmas is the Greek letter “Chi” which is the first letter in the Greek word for Christ. It is the holiday season, so “Happy Holidays” recognizes this season as a festive time of year. It seems either greeting will suffice. Oh yeah, I do prefer “Merry Christmas”. Preference depends upon one’s comfort level. During Christmas our thoughts often turn towards parties or entertaining friends. Families gather together in the warmth of homes filled with love. The Christmas Story in the Gospel of Luke 2 may be read at home or heard in a church service pointing toward God’s promises. Isn’t this season to be about hope? How does a holiday debate promote peace?
Regardless of the greeting, this time of the year promotes peace. The meaning of “Peace on earth and goodwill towards men” is forgotten in the debate. Not long ago we, Church of the Palms, served as a host church for Family Promise. I, for one, am grateful for the many churches which participate in this program. I served as one of the over night chaperones in case someone needed anything. Breakfast was prepared the next morning for the families before work and or school. I walked around a corner and was greeted by the joy of a smiling face of a child. For this young girl, someone cared enough to make sure her needs were met and that she was loved wherever she happened to be. Isn’t this the hope we look for during Christmas? No mater the preference of greeting, if we live out the words of hope there will be “Peace on earth and goodwill towards all humankind”.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Peace on Earth
In 1970 a Canadian group, The Original Caste, released the song “One Tin Soldier”. This song was in part a protest to the Vietnam War. If any one remembers the movie Billy Jack then they will also recognize the song as it was in the movie. I am going to date myself a little as I recall vague [strong emphasis on “vague”] memories of the Sonny and Cher Show. Cher did a remake of this song with a cartoon, for their Christmas special, that helped make a strong point. Leading into “One Tin Soldier”, Cher started by singing “It Came Upon a Midnight Clear”. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vg84L84uop8
Soon we will be reading the story of Christmas found in the Gospel of Luke. One point made in Scripture is “peace on earth and goodwill to all men”. In prophecy Jesus is referred to as the “Prince of Peace”. Peace is a big part of what Advent is all about. The popular Christmas hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem” makes mention of a peaceful city in blissful slumber awaiting the birth of the Messiah. It was anything but peaceful. Romans wanted taxes while the Zealots wanted the Romans out of the region. Peace would be defined by those who were able to conquer the other. During Jesus’ earthly ministry, especially the week prior to his crucifixion, civil unrest dominated the air. Almost everyone knew what would bring about the greatest peace for them and they were willing to kill for it. All in the name of God judgment was meted out.
Today there is great confusion as to the function of the church. Christians are often not quite sure what it is and what it is supposed to do. As far as the New Testament is concerned, a church is a worshipping community. Put in other words, the church is a fellowship of believers, those like them, meeting with Jesus and recognizing his presence in their midst. We do everything to improve our personal relationship with Jesus Christ but what about with others? Are we like those in the video or those who wanted to crucify Jesus by assessing others in the name of God? Are we as the body of Christ reaching out to a community, a friend, co-worker, family member, or even an enemy to bring the message of peace?
In the church stress and tension can undermine the way of peace. Shouldn’t peace be one of the words to describe those who constitute the body of Christ? The world we live in today is far from peaceful. Choices are before us on our journey in life. We may find temporary means in which to discover peace but find the feeling is only temporary. During this advent season ask yourself: What can you do to promote peace? Wherever you go, invite people to worship with you. Connecting your actions with following Jesus may stir curiosity in people who want what you have. Your con¬gregation will find ways to manifest for the community the real hope of Christmas that through Christ, people will find peace and hope. If we make Christ the focus of our lives we have the opportunity to experience an inner peace. In doing so the message we carry to others is influenced by the one in who our hope is placed. To find peace, people need to feel heard and to know they are not alone in their suffering. Combine the conversation with God’s grace, maybe sharing Scripture. Let the hope and peace of Christ assure you that no matter the situation, peace can prevail. (Rethink Church Resources) I leave you with this prayer:
Soon we will be reading the story of Christmas found in the Gospel of Luke. One point made in Scripture is “peace on earth and goodwill to all men”. In prophecy Jesus is referred to as the “Prince of Peace”. Peace is a big part of what Advent is all about. The popular Christmas hymn “O Little Town of Bethlehem” makes mention of a peaceful city in blissful slumber awaiting the birth of the Messiah. It was anything but peaceful. Romans wanted taxes while the Zealots wanted the Romans out of the region. Peace would be defined by those who were able to conquer the other. During Jesus’ earthly ministry, especially the week prior to his crucifixion, civil unrest dominated the air. Almost everyone knew what would bring about the greatest peace for them and they were willing to kill for it. All in the name of God judgment was meted out.
Today there is great confusion as to the function of the church. Christians are often not quite sure what it is and what it is supposed to do. As far as the New Testament is concerned, a church is a worshipping community. Put in other words, the church is a fellowship of believers, those like them, meeting with Jesus and recognizing his presence in their midst. We do everything to improve our personal relationship with Jesus Christ but what about with others? Are we like those in the video or those who wanted to crucify Jesus by assessing others in the name of God? Are we as the body of Christ reaching out to a community, a friend, co-worker, family member, or even an enemy to bring the message of peace?
In the church stress and tension can undermine the way of peace. Shouldn’t peace be one of the words to describe those who constitute the body of Christ? The world we live in today is far from peaceful. Choices are before us on our journey in life. We may find temporary means in which to discover peace but find the feeling is only temporary. During this advent season ask yourself: What can you do to promote peace? Wherever you go, invite people to worship with you. Connecting your actions with following Jesus may stir curiosity in people who want what you have. Your con¬gregation will find ways to manifest for the community the real hope of Christmas that through Christ, people will find peace and hope. If we make Christ the focus of our lives we have the opportunity to experience an inner peace. In doing so the message we carry to others is influenced by the one in who our hope is placed. To find peace, people need to feel heard and to know they are not alone in their suffering. Combine the conversation with God’s grace, maybe sharing Scripture. Let the hope and peace of Christ assure you that no matter the situation, peace can prevail. (Rethink Church Resources) I leave you with this prayer:
The Prayer of St. Francis
Lord, make me an instrument of your peace,
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
where there is sadness, joy;
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;
to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.
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