The beauty of Elizabeth Barrett Browning’s “How do I love thee,” came to mind as I read an inventory of God’s actions on man’s behalf in Psalm 146.
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee to the depth and breadth and height
My soul can reach, when feeling out of sight
For the ends of Being and ideal Grace.
On occasion I follow the discipline of reading five Psalms and one chapter of Proverbs daily throughout a month. The blend of instruction, counsel, wisdom and worship has been life-enriching as songs and proverbs mingle and mix, stirred by the Spirit into life application. (Have you ever considered that the primary authors are father and son, David and Solomon?)
This morning’s songfest began with the 146th Psalm,
I will praise the Lord all my life; I will sing praise to my God as long as I live!
Following that commitment to praise is a catalogue of God actions which arouses worship from within. The Lord,
• remains faithful forever.
• upholds the cause of the oppressed.
• gives food to the hungry.
• sets the prisoner free.
• gives sight to the blind.
• lifts up those who are bowed down.
• loves the righteous.
• watches over the alien.
• sustains the fatherless and widow.
• frustrates the ways of the wicked.
• reigns forever ... for all generations.
How do we love Him? Let us count the ways! You and I may never be able write a poem as beautiful as Browning, or a song as stunning as King David, but we ought to develop the desire and skill of loving God to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach. Let us grow into new expressions of praise, more beautiful demonstrations of love for Him who declares His affections for us in numberless ways. He who remains faithful forever is deserving of more than routine, rote, soulless responses.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Waiting
Waiting has never been a popular word. Delay is an experience one frequently reads about in positive terms. But, times of waiting comes to everyone.
• The best athletes in the nation must wait for their name to be called on draft day.
• The accused in court pace and wait while a jury decides their guilt or innocense.
• Early adolescents must wait to qualify for the all-important driver’s license.
• Expectant parents cannot believe how long takes for their baby to arrive.
• And, nearly everyone expecting a refund from the Internal Revenue Service is intentionally delaying their check.
• If we chose a line – anywhere – bank, toll booth, super market check out, we get caught in a wait cycle.
Men endure waiting, standing like whooping cranes shifting their weight from one leg to another. Ladies smile – and seethe under their breath. I’ve noticed, and felt the hot air canceling out the air conditioning. Do I have a witness? Is there an “Amen!” in the house? Come on, fess up!
More than two months ago I began preparing a vegetable garden, my first since the mid 1980's. Tiller, mulch, humus, manure, spade, hoe and other words were reintroduced into my vocabulary. After all the preparations were made, seeds were sown and plants in place, I waited, and waited. And, now, radishes, bell peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, beans, cucumbers and zucchini, lots of zucchini are ready for the dinner table. Germination and growth cannot be rushed.
The prophets promised Messiah hundreds of years before the shepherds heard the glad announcement by the heavenly hosts. “ ... when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.” – Galatians 4:4-5
Joel prophesied generations before his words were fulfilled. But they were, on the Day of Pentecost. Peter recognized that the expected time had arrived and declared to all who heard, “Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:” – Acts 2:14-18 We are still experiencing the promise today!
And, we await the fulfillment of still another promise. “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18
Waiting may not be easy or convenient, but is always worthwhile when we are expecting the fulfillment of His promises. Now, I should hear a loud, “Amen!
• The best athletes in the nation must wait for their name to be called on draft day.
• The accused in court pace and wait while a jury decides their guilt or innocense.
• Early adolescents must wait to qualify for the all-important driver’s license.
• Expectant parents cannot believe how long takes for their baby to arrive.
• And, nearly everyone expecting a refund from the Internal Revenue Service is intentionally delaying their check.
• If we chose a line – anywhere – bank, toll booth, super market check out, we get caught in a wait cycle.
Men endure waiting, standing like whooping cranes shifting their weight from one leg to another. Ladies smile – and seethe under their breath. I’ve noticed, and felt the hot air canceling out the air conditioning. Do I have a witness? Is there an “Amen!” in the house? Come on, fess up!
More than two months ago I began preparing a vegetable garden, my first since the mid 1980's. Tiller, mulch, humus, manure, spade, hoe and other words were reintroduced into my vocabulary. After all the preparations were made, seeds were sown and plants in place, I waited, and waited. And, now, radishes, bell peppers, lettuce, tomatoes, beans, cucumbers and zucchini, lots of zucchini are ready for the dinner table. Germination and growth cannot be rushed.
The prophets promised Messiah hundreds of years before the shepherds heard the glad announcement by the heavenly hosts. “ ... when the time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under law, to redeem those under law, that we might receive the full rights of sons.” – Galatians 4:4-5
Joel prophesied generations before his words were fulfilled. But they were, on the Day of Pentecost. Peter recognized that the expected time had arrived and declared to all who heard, “Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:” – Acts 2:14-18 We are still experiencing the promise today!
And, we await the fulfillment of still another promise. “For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.” – 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18
Waiting may not be easy or convenient, but is always worthwhile when we are expecting the fulfillment of His promises. Now, I should hear a loud, “Amen!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
A song to sing on the way to church
The Psalms of Ascent are songs originally sung by Old Testament pilgrims on their way to religious festivals in Jerusalem. It is possible that Jesus, his siblings, Mary and Joseph sang these Psalms with others on their way to the city to observe Passover (Luke 2). The songs are affirmations of faith, declarations of intent, lyrics rallying Israel to action.
The 132nd Psalm expresses David’s desire to build a house for the Ark of God, a place for the Presence. Imagine the poem sung a capella by the gathering crowds, possibly hundreds of thousands, traveling toward the City of God, especially verses 3-5, sung in mass corporate worship.
“I will not enter my house or go to my bed—
I will allow no sleep to my eyes, no slumber to my eyelids,
till I find a place for the LORD,
a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob.”
Clearly, the song is a summons to prepare a physical place for worship and prayer, a dwelling for the Presence of God. The people declared with building volume and energy, “We must make room for our God.”
I think a creative musician would serve the church well if a singable melody could be written to David’s lyrics. I envision several applications.
• Families loaded into their minivans could sing along with the music on their way to suburban churches. Wouldn’t it be cool if the music could be synced up and families would roll down their vehicle windows and fill the neighborhood with a call to worship and prayer?
• Those who walk to urban churches could do similarly, on foot, or on a bus, or subway car!
• Before entering the meeting place, wouldn’t you love to sing with the gathered congregation – on the front steps or under the car port?
I think it would be worth a try! The benefits would include –
• Participants would be reminded why they are attending church.
• Neighbors and on-lookers would receive witness to the importance assigned to the event by those attending.
• The time spent on the journey would be spent in preparation and ordering of priorities.
Since my suggestions will probably not be taken seriously, I propose that before attending corporate worship, we ask,
• “Why am I attending church today? Is my attendance mere rote activity or do I have mature, clearly understood intentions and expectations?”
• “What am I prepared to contribute, beyond the offering in my pocket? Is God preparing me for His use in a spiritual gift? Will I obey the Spirit who urges me to sit in a different place because He wants me to engage someone I would otherwise overlook?”
• “Is my heart, my spirit, prepared for receiving the Spirit’s Word through the preacher?”
• “Have I prayed about the manner in which I am about participate?”
• “Am I expecting to meet face-to-face, heart-to-heart, mind-to-mind, and spirit-to-Spirit with the Eternal God?”
My experience has taught me that when I meet with God there will be an inevitable collision between His will and mine. When I meet with God’s people, I am always better for the experience.
I may have stretched the text too much, but, my spirit resonates with David’s desire to “find a place for the Lord.” The Apostle Paul adds weight to the “place for the Lord,” stating, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
I’ll be musing on this today.
The 132nd Psalm expresses David’s desire to build a house for the Ark of God, a place for the Presence. Imagine the poem sung a capella by the gathering crowds, possibly hundreds of thousands, traveling toward the City of God, especially verses 3-5, sung in mass corporate worship.
“I will not enter my house or go to my bed—
I will allow no sleep to my eyes, no slumber to my eyelids,
till I find a place for the LORD,
a dwelling for the Mighty One of Jacob.”
Clearly, the song is a summons to prepare a physical place for worship and prayer, a dwelling for the Presence of God. The people declared with building volume and energy, “We must make room for our God.”
I think a creative musician would serve the church well if a singable melody could be written to David’s lyrics. I envision several applications.
• Families loaded into their minivans could sing along with the music on their way to suburban churches. Wouldn’t it be cool if the music could be synced up and families would roll down their vehicle windows and fill the neighborhood with a call to worship and prayer?
• Those who walk to urban churches could do similarly, on foot, or on a bus, or subway car!
• Before entering the meeting place, wouldn’t you love to sing with the gathered congregation – on the front steps or under the car port?
I think it would be worth a try! The benefits would include –
• Participants would be reminded why they are attending church.
• Neighbors and on-lookers would receive witness to the importance assigned to the event by those attending.
• The time spent on the journey would be spent in preparation and ordering of priorities.
Since my suggestions will probably not be taken seriously, I propose that before attending corporate worship, we ask,
• “Why am I attending church today? Is my attendance mere rote activity or do I have mature, clearly understood intentions and expectations?”
• “What am I prepared to contribute, beyond the offering in my pocket? Is God preparing me for His use in a spiritual gift? Will I obey the Spirit who urges me to sit in a different place because He wants me to engage someone I would otherwise overlook?”
• “Is my heart, my spirit, prepared for receiving the Spirit’s Word through the preacher?”
• “Have I prayed about the manner in which I am about participate?”
• “Am I expecting to meet face-to-face, heart-to-heart, mind-to-mind, and spirit-to-Spirit with the Eternal God?”
My experience has taught me that when I meet with God there will be an inevitable collision between His will and mine. When I meet with God’s people, I am always better for the experience.
I may have stretched the text too much, but, my spirit resonates with David’s desire to “find a place for the Lord.” The Apostle Paul adds weight to the “place for the Lord,” stating, “Don’t you know that you yourselves are God’s temple and that God’s Spirit lives in you? If anyone destroys God’s temple, God will destroy him; for God’s temple is sacred, and you are that temple.” (1 Corinthians 3:16-17)
I’ll be musing on this today.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Did you hear about the One?
Comics often begin new stories with, “Did you hear the one about the ... “ The phrase establishes anticipation. Entertainers hope a roar of laughter will follow and his popularity soar.
If we move the words around a bit, we ask, “Have you about the One who ...?” and the expectation is very different. For instance,
• “Have you heard about the One who ... HELPS THOSE WEAKEN BY THE BURDENS OF LIFE? Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. – Psalm 54:4
• “Have you heard about the One who ...IS UNLIKE ALL OTHERS AND PRESIDES WITH AUTHORITY OVER ALL CREATION?
Who is like the LORD our God, the One who sits enthroned on high,
who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?
He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; -- Psalm 113:5-7
• “Have you heard about the One who ...REMAINS FOREVER MINDFUL OF HIS PEOPLE?
... to the One who remembered us in our low estate. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:23
• “Have you heard about the One who ... ENTERED THE HUMAN STORY UNIQUELY?
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” – Matthew 2:1
• “Have you heard about the One who ...ALLEVIATES THE FEARS OF ALL WHO KNOW HIM?
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. – Matthew 10:28-31
• “Have you heard about the One who ... IS WORTHY OF WORSHIP?
“We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign. – Revelation 11:17
Comics present barrages of gags. They amuse, momentarily distracting those they entertain from the harsh realities of life. Laughter is the product for sale. Customers pay dearly for a respite from the realities of life. Troubles are pushed into the background for a few minutes, but paying customers and their burdens are reunited before an evening passes.
But Jesus’ followers know the One and are honored to speak of Him, assuring all who will hear that the One is present in the realities of life. The order of a few words makes a whole lot of difference! Let us speak of the One, Jesus, or we have done no more that the comic repeating gag lines, distracting from reality and offering no enduring help.
An old Sunday School chorus says –
Let's talk about Jesus, the King of kings is He,
The Lord of lords, supreme, throughout eternity
The Great I am the Way, the Truth, the Life, the Door
Let's talk about Jesus more and more!
As the clerks around Philadelphia say, “Have a good un!” And, talk about Jesus!
If we move the words around a bit, we ask, “Have you about the One who ...?” and the expectation is very different. For instance,
• “Have you heard about the One who ... HELPS THOSE WEAKEN BY THE BURDENS OF LIFE? Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains me. – Psalm 54:4
• “Have you heard about the One who ...IS UNLIKE ALL OTHERS AND PRESIDES WITH AUTHORITY OVER ALL CREATION?
Who is like the LORD our God, the One who sits enthroned on high,
who stoops down to look on the heavens and the earth?
He raises the poor from the dust and lifts the needy from the ash heap; -- Psalm 113:5-7
• “Have you heard about the One who ...REMAINS FOREVER MINDFUL OF HIS PEOPLE?
... to the One who remembered us in our low estate. His love endures forever. Psalm 136:23
• “Have you heard about the One who ... ENTERED THE HUMAN STORY UNIQUELY?
“Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” – Matthew 2:1
• “Have you heard about the One who ...ALLEVIATES THE FEARS OF ALL WHO KNOW HIM?
Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul. Rather, be afraid of the One who can destroy both soul and body in hell. Are not two sparrows sold for a penny? Yet not one of them will fall to the ground apart from the will of your Father. And even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. So don’t be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows. – Matthew 10:28-31
• “Have you heard about the One who ... IS WORTHY OF WORSHIP?
“We give thanks to you, Lord God Almighty, the One who is and who was, because you have taken your great power and have begun to reign. – Revelation 11:17
Comics present barrages of gags. They amuse, momentarily distracting those they entertain from the harsh realities of life. Laughter is the product for sale. Customers pay dearly for a respite from the realities of life. Troubles are pushed into the background for a few minutes, but paying customers and their burdens are reunited before an evening passes.
But Jesus’ followers know the One and are honored to speak of Him, assuring all who will hear that the One is present in the realities of life. The order of a few words makes a whole lot of difference! Let us speak of the One, Jesus, or we have done no more that the comic repeating gag lines, distracting from reality and offering no enduring help.
An old Sunday School chorus says –
Let's talk about Jesus, the King of kings is He,
The Lord of lords, supreme, throughout eternity
The Great I am the Way, the Truth, the Life, the Door
Let's talk about Jesus more and more!
As the clerks around Philadelphia say, “Have a good un!” And, talk about Jesus!
Thursday, June 23, 2011
God attends small town summer concerts
A plaster of Paris plaque hung for years over the headboard of my grandfather’s bed. It read, “Ve get too soon oldt, and too late schmart.” I left for college and cannot remember seeing the plaque since, but its truth continues to haunt me.
Last evening Pat and I attended a concert presented by the United States Navy Band Sea Chanters Chorus. The venue was a gorgeous park in the center of the small town that shares its zip code with us. Young families spread blankets on the ground and others sat on an array of folding chairs, around a gazebo Norman Rockwell should have painted. Nineteen young men and women in Navy whites trooped to center stage and presented the national anthem. The evening’s emcee then announced the chorus would sing a Negro Spiritual, “My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord.” After a few measures, the spiritual came alive and I realized, God attends summer concerts in small town parks! It’s true, “Ve get too soon oldt, and too late schmart,” I should have known that. The Holy Spirit washed my soul. If you don’t know the tune, click on the link and listen! http://www.lyrics.com/my-souls-been-anchored-in-de-lord-lyrics-moses-hogan.html
Our government has gone to great lengths to separate state from church, has done its best to contain the Sovereign of the Universe in Sunday morning capsules. Many are content for God to know His place, remaining in time and space venues, confined in places filled with brass plaques, stained glass and polished furniture. But God attends summer concerts, smiles on unsuspecting folks, and says, “Hi! I came to enjoy the evening with you!”
In that moment, when “My soul’s been anchored in the Lord,” came alive in me, I knew I was sharing a grassy lawn and summer breeze with the One who made both. I recalled one of Israel’s favorite hymns.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,”
even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well. – Psalm 139:7-14
The chorus of world-class voices went on to sing patriotic tunes, “Golden Oldies,” (complete with an Andrews Sisters and Frankie Vallee impersonations), and Broadway favorites. The evening was as delicious as the ice cream cone that followed! And then, at about the time a Lady Gaga tune had captured young people’s ears, I heard deep in my spirit, “Psst, I’m still here!” The chorus sang, “Eternal Father, Strong to Save.”1
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walked'st on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were all entreated, by ambassadors, “musicians first class,” of the United States Government! Some well-intentioned folk fret about the state of the Union. But, we know the God who attends summer concerts and gets people praying! Think about it! I believe the prayers were heard too. As long as God arranges His schedule to attend small town summers concerts and establishes His agenda, and delivers His message, why should we worry?
Stay anchored today, my friends. Pray along with others remembering, God attends summer concerts in small town parks.
Last evening Pat and I attended a concert presented by the United States Navy Band Sea Chanters Chorus. The venue was a gorgeous park in the center of the small town that shares its zip code with us. Young families spread blankets on the ground and others sat on an array of folding chairs, around a gazebo Norman Rockwell should have painted. Nineteen young men and women in Navy whites trooped to center stage and presented the national anthem. The evening’s emcee then announced the chorus would sing a Negro Spiritual, “My Soul’s Been Anchored in the Lord.” After a few measures, the spiritual came alive and I realized, God attends summer concerts in small town parks! It’s true, “Ve get too soon oldt, and too late schmart,” I should have known that. The Holy Spirit washed my soul. If you don’t know the tune, click on the link and listen! http://www.lyrics.com/my-souls-been-anchored-in-de-lord-lyrics-moses-hogan.html
Our government has gone to great lengths to separate state from church, has done its best to contain the Sovereign of the Universe in Sunday morning capsules. Many are content for God to know His place, remaining in time and space venues, confined in places filled with brass plaques, stained glass and polished furniture. But God attends summer concerts, smiles on unsuspecting folks, and says, “Hi! I came to enjoy the evening with you!”
In that moment, when “My soul’s been anchored in the Lord,” came alive in me, I knew I was sharing a grassy lawn and summer breeze with the One who made both. I recalled one of Israel’s favorite hymns.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
Where can I flee from your presence?
If I go up to the heavens, you are there;
if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.
If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on the far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast.
If I say, “Surely the darkness will hide me
and the light become night around me,”
even the darkness will not be dark to you;
the night will shine like the day,
for darkness is as light to you.
For you created my inmost being;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
your works are wonderful,
I know that full well. – Psalm 139:7-14
The chorus of world-class voices went on to sing patriotic tunes, “Golden Oldies,” (complete with an Andrews Sisters and Frankie Vallee impersonations), and Broadway favorites. The evening was as delicious as the ice cream cone that followed! And then, at about the time a Lady Gaga tune had captured young people’s ears, I heard deep in my spirit, “Psst, I’m still here!” The chorus sang, “Eternal Father, Strong to Save.”1
Eternal Father, strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
And hushed their raging at Thy word,
Who walked'st on the foaming deep,
And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
Upon the chaos dark and rude,
And bid its angry tumult cease,
And give, for wild confusion, peace;
Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
For those in peril on the sea!
O Trinity of love and power!
Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.
Father, Son, and Holy Spirit were all entreated, by ambassadors, “musicians first class,” of the United States Government! Some well-intentioned folk fret about the state of the Union. But, we know the God who attends summer concerts and gets people praying! Think about it! I believe the prayers were heard too. As long as God arranges His schedule to attend small town summers concerts and establishes His agenda, and delivers His message, why should we worry?
Stay anchored today, my friends. Pray along with others remembering, God attends summer concerts in small town parks.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Donder and blitzen
Words are fun! A few spots of ink on a piece of paper, or sounds relayed from mouth to ear, can evoke feelings, renew memories, deliver information and more. A pastor to whom Pat and I have been listening tells of a brother-in-law whose favorite phrase is, “How fun!” Brother-in-law even has a personalized license plate with his slogan. Without knowing the origins, I might have thought “How Fun” was on the menu of Chinese restaurants.
Theodore Roosevelt popularized “bully.” “Awesome” is in ruins and no longer has other than salvage value. How can we describe God and something as inconsequential as a carnival ride using the same word Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman are responding to questions about the fearful word, “Mormon.” Mr. Romney’s father, George Romney, two term governor of Michigan, learned that using “brainwashed” during a primary election can ruin a run for the Whitehouse.
Last night we had a wonderful thunderstorm. For about two hours the thunder rolled quietly, rumbling at a distance then building to a wonderful climax just outside our bedroom window. The rain fell quietly, straight down, no violent winds. It was simply wonderful, relaxing, restful.
During storms, Grandpa Wegner, who lived with our family while we were growing up, would stand at an open door and repeat, “Vunderbar! vunderbar, donder and blitzen!” The three words make up nearly a third of my German vocabulary. “Wonderful, wonderful, thunder and lightning!” are my words for a storm – no fear, just wonder. When my mother taught me to memorize “The Night Before Christmas,” I knew that two of the reindeer were really named “Thunder” and “Lightning.”
Psalm 29 calls us to worship with –
The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders,
the LORD thunders over the mighty waters.
The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic.
The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon.
The Prophet Joel adds weight to human understanding of God using Grandpa’s language. The prophet’s world is chaotic. In the context, enemies have the upper hand. But then –
The LORD thunders at the head of his army;
his forces are beyond number,
and mighty are those who obey his command.
The day of the LORD is great; it is dreadful.
Who can endure it? – Joel 2:11
Grandpa had no fear storms, and as a result of his influence, neither do I. Storms are simply “Vunderbar!” All around the “donder” and “blitzen” of ordinary life may rage, but the voice of One who thunders is at the head of His army! The seas surge, roiling with power, and over the sound of the waves, “The Lord thunders!” As the sounds of life stormily wash over us, the Eternal Word of God speaks peace, assurance, confidence, and comfort. The Holy Spirit uses words to soothe and instruct.
Yes! Words are wonderfully powerful, but God’s Word is more powerful than them all! Trust the One who thunders!
Theodore Roosevelt popularized “bully.” “Awesome” is in ruins and no longer has other than salvage value. How can we describe God and something as inconsequential as a carnival ride using the same word Mitt Romney and Jon Huntsman are responding to questions about the fearful word, “Mormon.” Mr. Romney’s father, George Romney, two term governor of Michigan, learned that using “brainwashed” during a primary election can ruin a run for the Whitehouse.
Last night we had a wonderful thunderstorm. For about two hours the thunder rolled quietly, rumbling at a distance then building to a wonderful climax just outside our bedroom window. The rain fell quietly, straight down, no violent winds. It was simply wonderful, relaxing, restful.
During storms, Grandpa Wegner, who lived with our family while we were growing up, would stand at an open door and repeat, “Vunderbar! vunderbar, donder and blitzen!” The three words make up nearly a third of my German vocabulary. “Wonderful, wonderful, thunder and lightning!” are my words for a storm – no fear, just wonder. When my mother taught me to memorize “The Night Before Christmas,” I knew that two of the reindeer were really named “Thunder” and “Lightning.”
Psalm 29 calls us to worship with –
The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders,
the LORD thunders over the mighty waters.
The voice of the LORD is powerful; the voice of the LORD is majestic.
The voice of the LORD breaks the cedars; the LORD breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon.
The Prophet Joel adds weight to human understanding of God using Grandpa’s language. The prophet’s world is chaotic. In the context, enemies have the upper hand. But then –
The LORD thunders at the head of his army;
his forces are beyond number,
and mighty are those who obey his command.
The day of the LORD is great; it is dreadful.
Who can endure it? – Joel 2:11
Grandpa had no fear storms, and as a result of his influence, neither do I. Storms are simply “Vunderbar!” All around the “donder” and “blitzen” of ordinary life may rage, but the voice of One who thunders is at the head of His army! The seas surge, roiling with power, and over the sound of the waves, “The Lord thunders!” As the sounds of life stormily wash over us, the Eternal Word of God speaks peace, assurance, confidence, and comfort. The Holy Spirit uses words to soothe and instruct.
Yes! Words are wonderfully powerful, but God’s Word is more powerful than them all! Trust the One who thunders!
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Franny, Zooey, and meaning for life
It is only my opinion, but J. D. Salinger’s Franny and Zooey, may document the most neurotic fictional family an author can create. In short, the Glass family is a mess. The Glass’ seven children each appeared on a long-running radio program before moving on to adult life. The clan experienced tragedy, one son was killed in an accident, another committed suicide. The parents and surviving adult children struggled as a result.
Franny, the baby, like her siblings tried to find peace and purpose for life. It was a frustrating experience. She tried several approaches, including a confessional prayer which deepened the darkness of her spiritual journey. Zooey, the next-oldest sibling lovingly, but impatiently, plied his best amateur psychoanalyst skills, but failed. His best efforts left his baby sister in worse condition than ever.
And then, in a fit of brilliance Zooey remembered Seymour, the oldest brother, and his last minute counsel when Zooey was about to leave for the studio for another performance. Seymour ordered his younger sibling, “Shine your shoes!” “Shine my shoes? Why? I will be on radio and no one ever sees my shoes!” Seymour responded, “Do it for the fat lady.” In the burst of insight at a critical moment in Franny’s struggle, Zooey said, “My fat lady sat on the porch in a wicker rocker. She had heavy legs with bad veins. My fat lady was dying of cancer. I shined my shoes and have been doing it ever since.” And, then, Zooey added, “I’ll tell you a terrible secret. Are you listening to me? There isn’t anyone out there who isn’t Seymour’s Fat Lady... Don’t you know that? Don’t you know that ... secret yet? And don’t you know listen to me, now – don’t you know who the Fat Lady really is? ... Ah, buddy, Ah buddy. It’s Christ Himself. Christ Himself, buddy.”
My father, a rather simple peasant by this world’s measurements, knew Salinger’s morality lesson wrapped in the sophistication of The New Yorker, and associations in the publishing world. When I asked Dad why he was as fastidious about work in closets, where few people would ever pay any attention and his work would never be noted, Dad said, “I know, and God knows, and that is what is important.” Saint Paul wrote, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) In short, we need to know the ultimate audience before whom we are living life. The audience, the One who ultimately matters, is Jesus. In church Sunday, Titus Two was one of the Scripture passages read aloud in the congregation. The same truth is amplified, reinforced, and urged upon us by the Holy Spirit.
I fell asleep, and then awoke this morning, with the Franny and Zooey story. Paul’s counsel, rumbling around in my spirit with Salinger’s characters. A childhood song was stirred into the batch of worthy morning musing. I wish we could sing it again – for old time sake, and for Jesus.
Living for Jesus, a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
Refrain:
O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee,
For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;
My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.
Living for Jesus Who died in my place,
Bearing on Calv’ry my sin and disgrace;
Such love constrains me to answer His call,
Follow His leading and give Him my all.
Living for Jesus, wherever I am,
Doing each duty in His holy Name;
Willing to suffer affliction and loss,
Deeming each trial a part of my cross.
Living for Jesus through earth’s little while,
My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;
Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,
Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.
Have a great day. And, remember, we are performing for an audience of One!
Franny, the baby, like her siblings tried to find peace and purpose for life. It was a frustrating experience. She tried several approaches, including a confessional prayer which deepened the darkness of her spiritual journey. Zooey, the next-oldest sibling lovingly, but impatiently, plied his best amateur psychoanalyst skills, but failed. His best efforts left his baby sister in worse condition than ever.
And then, in a fit of brilliance Zooey remembered Seymour, the oldest brother, and his last minute counsel when Zooey was about to leave for the studio for another performance. Seymour ordered his younger sibling, “Shine your shoes!” “Shine my shoes? Why? I will be on radio and no one ever sees my shoes!” Seymour responded, “Do it for the fat lady.” In the burst of insight at a critical moment in Franny’s struggle, Zooey said, “My fat lady sat on the porch in a wicker rocker. She had heavy legs with bad veins. My fat lady was dying of cancer. I shined my shoes and have been doing it ever since.” And, then, Zooey added, “I’ll tell you a terrible secret. Are you listening to me? There isn’t anyone out there who isn’t Seymour’s Fat Lady... Don’t you know that? Don’t you know that ... secret yet? And don’t you know listen to me, now – don’t you know who the Fat Lady really is? ... Ah, buddy, Ah buddy. It’s Christ Himself. Christ Himself, buddy.”
My father, a rather simple peasant by this world’s measurements, knew Salinger’s morality lesson wrapped in the sophistication of The New Yorker, and associations in the publishing world. When I asked Dad why he was as fastidious about work in closets, where few people would ever pay any attention and his work would never be noted, Dad said, “I know, and God knows, and that is what is important.” Saint Paul wrote, “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.” (1 Corinthians 10:31) In short, we need to know the ultimate audience before whom we are living life. The audience, the One who ultimately matters, is Jesus. In church Sunday, Titus Two was one of the Scripture passages read aloud in the congregation. The same truth is amplified, reinforced, and urged upon us by the Holy Spirit.
I fell asleep, and then awoke this morning, with the Franny and Zooey story. Paul’s counsel, rumbling around in my spirit with Salinger’s characters. A childhood song was stirred into the batch of worthy morning musing. I wish we could sing it again – for old time sake, and for Jesus.
Living for Jesus, a life that is true,
Striving to please Him in all that I do;
Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free,
This is the pathway of blessing for me.
Refrain:
O Jesus, Lord and Savior, I give myself to Thee,
For Thou, in Thy atonement, didst give Thyself for me;
I own no other Master, my heart shall be Thy throne;
My life I give, henceforth to live, O Christ, for Thee alone.
Living for Jesus Who died in my place,
Bearing on Calv’ry my sin and disgrace;
Such love constrains me to answer His call,
Follow His leading and give Him my all.
Living for Jesus, wherever I am,
Doing each duty in His holy Name;
Willing to suffer affliction and loss,
Deeming each trial a part of my cross.
Living for Jesus through earth’s little while,
My dearest treasure, the light of His smile;
Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem,
Bringing the weary to find rest in Him.
Have a great day. And, remember, we are performing for an audience of One!
Friday, June 17, 2011
On resolving disputes
Issues arise in relationships, family, work, church, neighborhoods, everywhere community ought to be happening. It is inevitable. Since all have sinned, we all have blind spots, built-in limitations which interrupt vision and make us vulnerable to stumbling. We simply have lost the capacity to understand others. Frequently we defend our viewpoint and become entrenched within our sense of rightness and lose the greater value of community..
When the misunderstanding is between two individuals, the dynamics allow for shared insights and straightforward words leading to reconciliation. But, it gets slippery when disputes are between factions in a larger group. I recently participated in a meeting and went away with a sense of grief, sorrow because I have friends on either side of the same issue. One faction accuses the other of power plays and political intrigue, and then, immediately counters its rivals with near-identical efforts. What was distasteful in someone else somehow became magically acceptable. Does the supposed rightness of a cause ever come with a license to be manipulative or coercive?
I have made an effort to distill the lessons I need to apply in my life.
1. I do not want to participate in any conversation which wins a point for my opinion at the expense of an elder or fellow disciple. This is usually facilitated by choosing language carefully and speaking from a Spirit-filled heart bearing fruit leading to reconciliation and community.
2. If at all possible, I will not dilute or distract from the excellent qualities of others, especially brothers and sisters in the Faith in order to win my point. Challenging assumptions or opinions is fair. Being unkind, angry or defensive in the process is less than Christ-like. Jesus deserves better.
3. I ought to be, uncomfortable matching wits, too frequently a thinly veiled verbal power play, when deferring to others with loving words has greater potential to result in better outcomes.
4. I need to listen more, speak less. Long ago I realized that while I am speaking, I am not learning.
5. Finally, in my opinion, if those I perceive to be rivals remain blind and unwilling to listen or resolve the divisive issue, we have larger problems than the present point of contention. All parties ought to give their full energies to rebuilding the spirit of community which distinguishes what Saint Paul calls the “household of faith.” Better decisions will result.
We are God’s workmanship. He is continually forming us, often by using others with whom we disagree or misunderstand. How we relate becomes the Message, the Good News, to those who observe.
When the misunderstanding is between two individuals, the dynamics allow for shared insights and straightforward words leading to reconciliation. But, it gets slippery when disputes are between factions in a larger group. I recently participated in a meeting and went away with a sense of grief, sorrow because I have friends on either side of the same issue. One faction accuses the other of power plays and political intrigue, and then, immediately counters its rivals with near-identical efforts. What was distasteful in someone else somehow became magically acceptable. Does the supposed rightness of a cause ever come with a license to be manipulative or coercive?
I have made an effort to distill the lessons I need to apply in my life.
1. I do not want to participate in any conversation which wins a point for my opinion at the expense of an elder or fellow disciple. This is usually facilitated by choosing language carefully and speaking from a Spirit-filled heart bearing fruit leading to reconciliation and community.
2. If at all possible, I will not dilute or distract from the excellent qualities of others, especially brothers and sisters in the Faith in order to win my point. Challenging assumptions or opinions is fair. Being unkind, angry or defensive in the process is less than Christ-like. Jesus deserves better.
3. I ought to be, uncomfortable matching wits, too frequently a thinly veiled verbal power play, when deferring to others with loving words has greater potential to result in better outcomes.
4. I need to listen more, speak less. Long ago I realized that while I am speaking, I am not learning.
5. Finally, in my opinion, if those I perceive to be rivals remain blind and unwilling to listen or resolve the divisive issue, we have larger problems than the present point of contention. All parties ought to give their full energies to rebuilding the spirit of community which distinguishes what Saint Paul calls the “household of faith.” Better decisions will result.
We are God’s workmanship. He is continually forming us, often by using others with whom we disagree or misunderstand. How we relate becomes the Message, the Good News, to those who observe.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Reading!
Over 60 years ago I entered elementary school in Detroit. Teachers immediately began to reinforce my parent’s initial efforts to help me read. The school had a small, age-appropriate library which fascinated me. I can still remember the room’s distinct odor. Mrs. Wilson, our librarian, was an enthusiastic ambassador for literacy, lighting fires of curiosity and introducing her students to biography, history, art and ...
As I began reading a book on missionary strategies yesterday I was reminded of how privileged I am. Reading allows one to connect with all those who lived and wrote over the centuries. A book will share secrets from generations past, insights into the future, and allows a longer, more finely honed perspective. Reading can help us understand ourselves and our times in the larger context of history.
For me, the ability to read is more valuable than anything I have ever purchased. For over 60 years I have been able to open a Bible and experience the Holy Spirit’s prompting and purposes as Eternal Word enters time. The process began with halting syllable-by-syllable efforts on a living room sofa next to Mom or Dad who coached me with, “Sound it out,” and, “Try again.” My life is rich because of the printed page and the miracle of connecting little ink spots on paper into living ideas, lasting truths, and loving assurances.
Yesterday, a friend gave me a volume on gardening. I stayed up too late last night learning what others have known from life experience and studies in horticulture. A city slicker, like me, had no idea how to do what the book teaches. Next year’s garden is already forming mentally.
Yes, I am aware of Solomon’s counsel, “Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.” (Ecclesiastes 12:12) Check the context of the statement before chilling out in from of the TV though. The Apostle Paul valued his books, “When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.” (2 Timothy 4:13)
Well, the library called yesterday. A volume is on hold, another treasure to explore. Several thousand other volumes are awaiting to check out too. If one can read, he is blessed!
As I began reading a book on missionary strategies yesterday I was reminded of how privileged I am. Reading allows one to connect with all those who lived and wrote over the centuries. A book will share secrets from generations past, insights into the future, and allows a longer, more finely honed perspective. Reading can help us understand ourselves and our times in the larger context of history.
For me, the ability to read is more valuable than anything I have ever purchased. For over 60 years I have been able to open a Bible and experience the Holy Spirit’s prompting and purposes as Eternal Word enters time. The process began with halting syllable-by-syllable efforts on a living room sofa next to Mom or Dad who coached me with, “Sound it out,” and, “Try again.” My life is rich because of the printed page and the miracle of connecting little ink spots on paper into living ideas, lasting truths, and loving assurances.
Yesterday, a friend gave me a volume on gardening. I stayed up too late last night learning what others have known from life experience and studies in horticulture. A city slicker, like me, had no idea how to do what the book teaches. Next year’s garden is already forming mentally.
Yes, I am aware of Solomon’s counsel, “Of making many books there is no end, and much study wearies the body.” (Ecclesiastes 12:12) Check the context of the statement before chilling out in from of the TV though. The Apostle Paul valued his books, “When you come, bring the cloak that I left with Carpus at Troas, and my scrolls, especially the parchments.” (2 Timothy 4:13)
Well, the library called yesterday. A volume is on hold, another treasure to explore. Several thousand other volumes are awaiting to check out too. If one can read, he is blessed!
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Flag Day
Yesterday I finished reading Faith of My Fathers, by Senator John McCain. (The book was on the “last chance” table at my favorite bookstore, and being a voracious reader of biography, I couldn’t resist.)Filled with multiple stories of heroism, nearly all accounts of prisoners incarcerated in Viet Nam camps, I was sobered as I remembered antiwar demonstrations, heated public debate, and unpopularity of the war. The personal suffering described is painful to read decades later. In contrast, some of my peers fled the country to avoid being drafted into their nation’s service to fight an unpopular war, and I was exempted by an educational deferment.
One of the stories recounted in the book will be etched in my memory for years. A prisoner of war salvaged scraps of colored cloth over a period of months and stitched them into a crude American flag using a makeshift needle made from bamboo. The sight of the flag emboldened soldiers, airmen, navy men and Marines wracked with pain from war related injuries, repeated beatings at the hands of cruel, weakened by dysentery and hunger. When the flag was shown to prisoners struggling to maintain sanity and sufficient moral strength to resist making treasonous statements to the enemy press, the captives broke into a rousing rendition of The Star Spangled Banner. When discovered, the flag was confiscated and its creator was severely beaten, humiliated, and returned to his cell. Unconscious and in agony, fellow prisoners nursed the soldier back to consciousness. Though unable to walk, the patriot crawled to a corner – and began sewing another flag.
Symbols rally, energize, renew resolve. In February-March 1945, the battle for Iwo Jima was fierce. Only 8 square miles, the island was strategic because of the airstrips. The strength of deeply entrenched Japanese forces were stubborn and strong. A handful of Marines fought their way to the most prominent peak, Mount Suribachi, on the southern end of the volcanic island and planted the US flag. On March 26, 1945, the disheartened and weary Marines saw their nation’s flag, rallied and took the island’s airstrips, a huge turning point in World War II.
Early this morning I placed a flag outdoors in observance of “Flag Day,” June 14. Today has a special place in my heart because today is also the anniversary of Pastor Charles Green’s birth. Pastor Green was my first ministry mentor and dear friend. He taught me what could not be learned in classrooms. From him I learned to love and laugh simultaneously. This has proven to be as valuable as Greek and theology lessons. Known as “Bud” by his family and close friends, pastor shared insights into human nature and demonstrated coping skills that have served me well for the past 45 years. When he passed away in 2009, I participated at his funeral and was deeply moved by a full military ceremony at the cemetery. Charles Green had earned a Purple Heart for wounds suffered in the hills of Italy during World War II, returned home married Helen Crites, graduated from Central Bible College, pastored churches in Michigan, Florida and New Jersey. Helen Crites Green was handed the flag which had draped his coffin. I’ll never forget the moment. I’ll always remember the man.
One of the stories recounted in the book will be etched in my memory for years. A prisoner of war salvaged scraps of colored cloth over a period of months and stitched them into a crude American flag using a makeshift needle made from bamboo. The sight of the flag emboldened soldiers, airmen, navy men and Marines wracked with pain from war related injuries, repeated beatings at the hands of cruel, weakened by dysentery and hunger. When the flag was shown to prisoners struggling to maintain sanity and sufficient moral strength to resist making treasonous statements to the enemy press, the captives broke into a rousing rendition of The Star Spangled Banner. When discovered, the flag was confiscated and its creator was severely beaten, humiliated, and returned to his cell. Unconscious and in agony, fellow prisoners nursed the soldier back to consciousness. Though unable to walk, the patriot crawled to a corner – and began sewing another flag.
Symbols rally, energize, renew resolve. In February-March 1945, the battle for Iwo Jima was fierce. Only 8 square miles, the island was strategic because of the airstrips. The strength of deeply entrenched Japanese forces were stubborn and strong. A handful of Marines fought their way to the most prominent peak, Mount Suribachi, on the southern end of the volcanic island and planted the US flag. On March 26, 1945, the disheartened and weary Marines saw their nation’s flag, rallied and took the island’s airstrips, a huge turning point in World War II.
Early this morning I placed a flag outdoors in observance of “Flag Day,” June 14. Today has a special place in my heart because today is also the anniversary of Pastor Charles Green’s birth. Pastor Green was my first ministry mentor and dear friend. He taught me what could not be learned in classrooms. From him I learned to love and laugh simultaneously. This has proven to be as valuable as Greek and theology lessons. Known as “Bud” by his family and close friends, pastor shared insights into human nature and demonstrated coping skills that have served me well for the past 45 years. When he passed away in 2009, I participated at his funeral and was deeply moved by a full military ceremony at the cemetery. Charles Green had earned a Purple Heart for wounds suffered in the hills of Italy during World War II, returned home married Helen Crites, graduated from Central Bible College, pastored churches in Michigan, Florida and New Jersey. Helen Crites Green was handed the flag which had draped his coffin. I’ll never forget the moment. I’ll always remember the man.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Authentic Humility
Psychologist Abraham Maslow wrote, “If the only tool you have is a hammer, every problem tends to look like a nail.” Life’s problems are too complex for short, simple answers formulated in shallow thinking. I shake my head when I hear sincere but simplistic answers that come from formula-generated data bases laced with Bible verses. With staccato quickness of a machine gun well-meaning Christians give answers to questions wise men have pondered for lifetimes. Difficult questions like, “Why do good people suffer and bad men have lives of ease?” don’t have one line answers.
Answers offered –
1. Are often shallow and without empathy for the one asking. My brother conducted a funeral for a 21 year-old man this week. His wife and newborn son sat before my brother asking questions too deep for glib answers.
2. Are arrogant, starving for authentic humility. Rabbis teach their young charges, “Pray to God that he teaches your tongue to say, ‘I don’t know!’”
3. Often alienate would-be believers. I find it intimidating to approach someone who has an answer for everything, don’t you? Jesus’ disciples had to learn to be approachable. They shooed away children, Jesus embraced them. And, Jesus taught, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all—he is the greatest.” (Luke 9:48)
We who follow Jesus need to discover and experience Jesus’ humility. Consider, Jesus did not answer every imponderable question. His replied to Peter’s question about John’s destiny, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” (John 21:23) and, didn’t Jesus teach that the Spirit would be sent to continue the process by which disciples prepared for service? I am indebted to a college professor, William MacDonald, who answered the frequent, imponderable complexities posed by students with, Abraham’s words, “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” ( Genesis 18:25)
Is it possible that since we can speedily access so much information that we wrongly conclude that we can, and must, provide an answer for everything? Should we consider that our un-churched friends do not need answers as much as a friend as approachable as Jesus and present when daunting challenges are the most intense? Instead of hammering away with inadequate answers, let us patiently offer, “I don’t know,” or, “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?”
Answers offered –
1. Are often shallow and without empathy for the one asking. My brother conducted a funeral for a 21 year-old man this week. His wife and newborn son sat before my brother asking questions too deep for glib answers.
2. Are arrogant, starving for authentic humility. Rabbis teach their young charges, “Pray to God that he teaches your tongue to say, ‘I don’t know!’”
3. Often alienate would-be believers. I find it intimidating to approach someone who has an answer for everything, don’t you? Jesus’ disciples had to learn to be approachable. They shooed away children, Jesus embraced them. And, Jesus taught, “Whoever welcomes this little child in my name welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me. For he who is least among you all—he is the greatest.” (Luke 9:48)
We who follow Jesus need to discover and experience Jesus’ humility. Consider, Jesus did not answer every imponderable question. His replied to Peter’s question about John’s destiny, “If I want him to remain alive until I return, what is that to you? You must follow me.” (John 21:23) and, didn’t Jesus teach that the Spirit would be sent to continue the process by which disciples prepared for service? I am indebted to a college professor, William MacDonald, who answered the frequent, imponderable complexities posed by students with, Abraham’s words, “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?” ( Genesis 18:25)
Is it possible that since we can speedily access so much information that we wrongly conclude that we can, and must, provide an answer for everything? Should we consider that our un-churched friends do not need answers as much as a friend as approachable as Jesus and present when daunting challenges are the most intense? Instead of hammering away with inadequate answers, let us patiently offer, “I don’t know,” or, “Will not the Judge of all the earth do right?”
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Acts Twelve: A great story, great lessons
The Acts of the Apostles, chapter 12, is great reading! The miracle of Peter’s deliverance from prison “will preach” in pastors’ parlance. We all delight when the good guys win and the bad guy gets “his.” But, not so fast here, there is more to the story (a tip of my hat to Paul Harvey).
Consider a few of the details concerning the ranking politician.
• Herod had already had James killed.
• Pleasing people was one of Herod’s weaknesses, and the religious establishment didn’t like Peter. Hence, Peter was in prison to the delight of the religious, and Herod’s designs were not encouraging.
• People do things out of frustration. When Peter got away, Herod turned on his own staff, ordering them killed. Remember that! Angry people are not very discriminating!
• Herod was an egotist. After making a speech, the people in attendance shouted, “This is the voice of a god,” Herod tacitly said, “You got that right!” Egotists that get angry are a force to be reckoned with.
Meanwhile, the church was authentically being the church!
• “The church was earnestly praying to God for him (Peter).” Yes, there is another evidence of the truth, “When I work, I work. When I pray, God works.” Angels were dispatched because the church was being the church.
• The congregation was multi-cultural, multi-generational. The youth were in the prayer meeting. Rhoda, a servant girl, got so excited that she failed the decorum test and left Peter standing at the door!
• In the middle of a prayer meeting interrupted by a youthful servant, the church showed its humanity, accusing Rhoda with, “You’re out of your mind.”
Here are a few take away lessons.
• When under pressure, pray. Call for special prayer for those under threat and experiencing pressure.
• Don’t expect too much of church people, even when they are praying. After all, Christian people are people, and act just like us.
• Expect to be astonished! Surprise and wonder link us in faith with every generation of the faithful.
• Tell your story of deliverance. Peter did, and yours is a unique and worthy of telling as Peter’s. Faith moves forward on the wings of a story.
• Be inclusive! There are “Rhodas” who are qualified to open doors, even if they do it imperfectly. Opened doors reveal miracle results to prayers.
• God deals with angry egotists. Those who abuse power will stand before Him! In Herod’s case, God had a bigger than usual batch of worms readied. We need not bring the abusive and vicious to trial or discredited with our slander. Pray for those in authority. Celebrate deliverances.
• Violence against the faith will continue. James died at the edge of the sword. Later, Peter also died a violent death for the faith. In other words, sometimes things don’t work out the way we plan. But, God is still God.
Consider a few of the details concerning the ranking politician.
• Herod had already had James killed.
• Pleasing people was one of Herod’s weaknesses, and the religious establishment didn’t like Peter. Hence, Peter was in prison to the delight of the religious, and Herod’s designs were not encouraging.
• People do things out of frustration. When Peter got away, Herod turned on his own staff, ordering them killed. Remember that! Angry people are not very discriminating!
• Herod was an egotist. After making a speech, the people in attendance shouted, “This is the voice of a god,” Herod tacitly said, “You got that right!” Egotists that get angry are a force to be reckoned with.
Meanwhile, the church was authentically being the church!
• “The church was earnestly praying to God for him (Peter).” Yes, there is another evidence of the truth, “When I work, I work. When I pray, God works.” Angels were dispatched because the church was being the church.
• The congregation was multi-cultural, multi-generational. The youth were in the prayer meeting. Rhoda, a servant girl, got so excited that she failed the decorum test and left Peter standing at the door!
• In the middle of a prayer meeting interrupted by a youthful servant, the church showed its humanity, accusing Rhoda with, “You’re out of your mind.”
Here are a few take away lessons.
• When under pressure, pray. Call for special prayer for those under threat and experiencing pressure.
• Don’t expect too much of church people, even when they are praying. After all, Christian people are people, and act just like us.
• Expect to be astonished! Surprise and wonder link us in faith with every generation of the faithful.
• Tell your story of deliverance. Peter did, and yours is a unique and worthy of telling as Peter’s. Faith moves forward on the wings of a story.
• Be inclusive! There are “Rhodas” who are qualified to open doors, even if they do it imperfectly. Opened doors reveal miracle results to prayers.
• God deals with angry egotists. Those who abuse power will stand before Him! In Herod’s case, God had a bigger than usual batch of worms readied. We need not bring the abusive and vicious to trial or discredited with our slander. Pray for those in authority. Celebrate deliverances.
• Violence against the faith will continue. James died at the edge of the sword. Later, Peter also died a violent death for the faith. In other words, sometimes things don’t work out the way we plan. But, God is still God.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
I woke up this morning with my mind stayed on Jesus!
It seems as if every day I relate to fewer people professionally. A cursory review of my calendar supports that. Only a few engagements are marked in “Outlook,” for my vocation. Younger men are carrying on – quite well and very creatively. Pat and I are experiencing a new season in life.
Now that every day doesn’t have a “To Do List” with dozens of tasks related to vocational responsibilities, prayer is different. I still pray, but the clutter of projects awaiting design, decision, and dispatch is less dense and more manageable. Musing, pondering, reflecting, listening is luxurious as we have fewer deadlines.
This morning, early, I awoke with the lyrics of an old spiritual wafting through my spirit. I cannot remember singing the tune more than a few times, once at a wedding ceremony, but I could hear it just the same – deep from within the wellspring of my soul.
I woke up this morning with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Woke up this morning with my mind stayed on Jesus
Woke up this morning with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Hallelu (Halle) hallelu (halle) Hallelujah.
Singing and praying with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Singing and praying with my mind stayed on Jesus
Singing and praying with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Hallelu (Halle) hallelu (halle) Hallelujah.
Music: Woke up this morning Traditional African-American
Words: Anonymous
From the first moments of early morning reverie, I moved to reading Scripture and pondering. A fresh reading of Acts 10 was startling. One of the most powerful moments in Peter’s lifetime occurred while he was in an unexpected trance. Vision happens when we are not working through strategies and enlisting team members. Vision starts in heaven and –
• Interrupts the status quo. A mentor in my youth frequently repeated, “Men spend a good share of their lives seeking status, and the rest protecting quo.” Said another way, “We live without divine interruptions.” The work of the Spirit interrupts all our plans! That is the nature of the world-Spirit conflict.
• Interferes with personal preferences. If you are looking for head-shaking material for your thought life today, re-read Acts 10 and consider Peter’s debate with the Spirit about the propriety of Peter’s pending visit to a group of Italians! It is a real stretch to believe Peter, or any of the few thousand Pentecostals, would have gone to the wrong side of the religious tracks to welcome Cornelius’ household into church membership.
• Initiates new possibilities. Friends, most of us (Gentiles) would still be lost without the singular event recorded in Acts 10. I am a third generation Pentecostal, my grandchildren will be the fifth. But, 100's of generations connect us spiritually to a prayer meeting in a living room of an Italian soldier.
• Involves new obedience. You and I may learn an important lesson. Visions are easy! Moving obediently from our comfort into the Spirit’s stream of release, newness and inclusion is challenging. Peter’s argument with the Spirit wasn’t his last. He had to argue with the brothers defending his obedience. But, aren’t you glad he did?
Remember? “I woke up this morning with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus.” When that is our discipline and experience, we should expect the Spirit to gently and persuasively burst in and rearrange our lives. Pat and I are listening for the Spirit’s visitation. His visits always affect change. Let us share how He, the Spirit, rearranges our expectations, priorities and preferences!
Now that every day doesn’t have a “To Do List” with dozens of tasks related to vocational responsibilities, prayer is different. I still pray, but the clutter of projects awaiting design, decision, and dispatch is less dense and more manageable. Musing, pondering, reflecting, listening is luxurious as we have fewer deadlines.
This morning, early, I awoke with the lyrics of an old spiritual wafting through my spirit. I cannot remember singing the tune more than a few times, once at a wedding ceremony, but I could hear it just the same – deep from within the wellspring of my soul.
I woke up this morning with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Woke up this morning with my mind stayed on Jesus
Woke up this morning with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Hallelu (Halle) hallelu (halle) Hallelujah.
Singing and praying with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Singing and praying with my mind stayed on Jesus
Singing and praying with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus
Hallelu (Halle) hallelu (halle) Hallelujah.
Music: Woke up this morning Traditional African-American
Words: Anonymous
From the first moments of early morning reverie, I moved to reading Scripture and pondering. A fresh reading of Acts 10 was startling. One of the most powerful moments in Peter’s lifetime occurred while he was in an unexpected trance. Vision happens when we are not working through strategies and enlisting team members. Vision starts in heaven and –
• Interrupts the status quo. A mentor in my youth frequently repeated, “Men spend a good share of their lives seeking status, and the rest protecting quo.” Said another way, “We live without divine interruptions.” The work of the Spirit interrupts all our plans! That is the nature of the world-Spirit conflict.
• Interferes with personal preferences. If you are looking for head-shaking material for your thought life today, re-read Acts 10 and consider Peter’s debate with the Spirit about the propriety of Peter’s pending visit to a group of Italians! It is a real stretch to believe Peter, or any of the few thousand Pentecostals, would have gone to the wrong side of the religious tracks to welcome Cornelius’ household into church membership.
• Initiates new possibilities. Friends, most of us (Gentiles) would still be lost without the singular event recorded in Acts 10. I am a third generation Pentecostal, my grandchildren will be the fifth. But, 100's of generations connect us spiritually to a prayer meeting in a living room of an Italian soldier.
• Involves new obedience. You and I may learn an important lesson. Visions are easy! Moving obediently from our comfort into the Spirit’s stream of release, newness and inclusion is challenging. Peter’s argument with the Spirit wasn’t his last. He had to argue with the brothers defending his obedience. But, aren’t you glad he did?
Remember? “I woke up this morning with my mind (Hallelujah) stayed on Jesus.” When that is our discipline and experience, we should expect the Spirit to gently and persuasively burst in and rearrange our lives. Pat and I are listening for the Spirit’s visitation. His visits always affect change. Let us share how He, the Spirit, rearranges our expectations, priorities and preferences!
Friday, June 3, 2011
Joy! Laughter! Humor!
When poking fun, Mark Twain is a world class “spoof master.” In his short story, “Is he living or is he dead?” Twain describes his characters, “We were as happy as we were poor, or as poor as we were happy – phrase it to suit yourself. Claude Frere and Carl Boulanger – these are the names of those boys; dear, dear fellows, and the sunniest spirits that ever laughed at poverty and had a noble good time in all weathers.” My life has been enriched by a few people like Twain’s Claude and Carl. One person described a mentor as, “Going about like an arsonist, lighting fires of humor, causing people to laugh!” Rich, a member of a pastoral ministry team sees the brightness in everything. Our son consistently processes life from the sunny side of the street.
Bob, a friend of more than 45 years, is a world class punster. Every time I am with him I have smile material to share with others. Bob and his wife write an occasional letter, “An Encouraging Word,” loaded with home spun anecdotes and raw material for laughter. Victor, another friend of more than 45 years gushes with joy. Going through a check-out at a home improvement store with Victor is more fun than watching comedians on television. You would love to spend an evening with my friends.
Many Christians quote Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones,” without smiling! The same wise author was inspired, or breathed on by the Holy Spirit, to encourage all who would read his counsel, “All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast. Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.” – Proverbs 15:15-17
A recent AARP item suggests that we can be happier if we sing. Well, my friends, Christians have the best scores ever written! Some church music went platinum over 3000 years ago. Miriam’s Song is older than that! One of the newer songs has been in the church’s repertoire only 187 years, and the lyrics and truth are joyously and enthusiastically celebrated around the world every Lord’s Day.
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flow’rs before Thee,
Op’ning to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;
Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light of day!
All Thy works with joy surround Thee,
Earth and heav’n reflect Thy rays,
Stars and angels sing around Thee,
Center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain,
Flow’ry meadow, flashing sea,
Singing bird and flowing fountain
Call us to rejoice in Thee.
Thou art giving and forgiving,
Ever blessing, ever blest,
Wellspring of the joy of living,
Ocean depth of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother,
All who live in love are Thine;
Teach us how to love each other,
Lift us to the joy divine.
Mortals, join the happy chorus,
Which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us,
Brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward,
Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us Sunward
In the triumph song of life.
People of the Spirit know “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self–control,” and ought to be spreading joy without being obnoxious or insensitive. Will folk remember us as dour dragons of despair continuously pointing to the dark and dismal side of every issue, or as arsonists of joy who went about lighting fires of joyful hope? Go ahead, laugh! Laughter is contagious!
By the way, you can read “Is he living or is he dead?” in The Man That Corrupted Hadleysburg and Other Essays and Stories. It’s in your public library and a real happy read.
Prayer requests
Bob, a friend of more than 45 years, is a world class punster. Every time I am with him I have smile material to share with others. Bob and his wife write an occasional letter, “An Encouraging Word,” loaded with home spun anecdotes and raw material for laughter. Victor, another friend of more than 45 years gushes with joy. Going through a check-out at a home improvement store with Victor is more fun than watching comedians on television. You would love to spend an evening with my friends.
Many Christians quote Proverbs 17:22, “A cheerful heart is good medicine, but a crushed spirit dries up the bones,” without smiling! The same wise author was inspired, or breathed on by the Holy Spirit, to encourage all who would read his counsel, “All the days of the oppressed are wretched, but the cheerful heart has a continual feast. Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil. Better a meal of vegetables where there is love than a fattened calf with hatred.” – Proverbs 15:15-17
A recent AARP item suggests that we can be happier if we sing. Well, my friends, Christians have the best scores ever written! Some church music went platinum over 3000 years ago. Miriam’s Song is older than that! One of the newer songs has been in the church’s repertoire only 187 years, and the lyrics and truth are joyously and enthusiastically celebrated around the world every Lord’s Day.
Joyful, joyful, we adore Thee,
God of glory, Lord of love;
Hearts unfold like flow’rs before Thee,
Op’ning to the sun above.
Melt the clouds of sin and sadness;
Drive the dark of doubt away;
Giver of immortal gladness,
Fill us with the light of day!
All Thy works with joy surround Thee,
Earth and heav’n reflect Thy rays,
Stars and angels sing around Thee,
Center of unbroken praise.
Field and forest, vale and mountain,
Flow’ry meadow, flashing sea,
Singing bird and flowing fountain
Call us to rejoice in Thee.
Thou art giving and forgiving,
Ever blessing, ever blest,
Wellspring of the joy of living,
Ocean depth of happy rest!
Thou our Father, Christ our Brother,
All who live in love are Thine;
Teach us how to love each other,
Lift us to the joy divine.
Mortals, join the happy chorus,
Which the morning stars began;
Father love is reigning o’er us,
Brother love binds man to man.
Ever singing, march we onward,
Victors in the midst of strife,
Joyful music leads us Sunward
In the triumph song of life.
People of the Spirit know “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self–control,” and ought to be spreading joy without being obnoxious or insensitive. Will folk remember us as dour dragons of despair continuously pointing to the dark and dismal side of every issue, or as arsonists of joy who went about lighting fires of joyful hope? Go ahead, laugh! Laughter is contagious!
By the way, you can read “Is he living or is he dead?” in The Man That Corrupted Hadleysburg and Other Essays and Stories. It’s in your public library and a real happy read.
Prayer requests
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Are we spending our time wisely?
Sinclair Lewis, America’s first Nobel Prize winner for literature, made an observation about culture in his novel, Main Street. “The greatest mystery about a human being is not his reaction to sex or praise, but in the manner in which he contrives to put in twenty-four a hours day. It is this which puzzles the longshoreman about the clerk, the Londoner about the bushman.”
Lewis echoes a theme from Scripture. The psalmist wrote, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Jesus taught about he final judgement, based on how “the manner in which we contrive to put in twenty-four hours a day.” (Matthew 25) And, Saint Paul adds a sober reminder, “So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:9,10)
A poem sometimes used in funeral services captures my thoughts more cleverly.
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone from the beginning... to the end.
He noted that first came her date of birth and spoke the following date with tears, but he said what mattered most of all was the “dash” between those years. (1934 -1998)
For that dash represents all the time that she spent alive on earth...and now only those who loved her know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own; the cars...the house...the cash, what matters is how we live and love and how we spend our “dash”.
So think about this long and hard...are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left, that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough to consider what's true and real, and always try to understand the way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger, and show appreciation more and love the people in our lives like we've never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect, and more often wear a smile...remembering that this special “dash” might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy's being read with your life's actions to rehash...would you be proud of the things they say about how you spent your “dash”?
Copyright by Linda Ellis
By the way, Main Street is a fascinating study and great read.
Lewis echoes a theme from Scripture. The psalmist wrote, “Teach us to number our days aright, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12) Jesus taught about he final judgement, based on how “the manner in which we contrive to put in twenty-four hours a day.” (Matthew 25) And, Saint Paul adds a sober reminder, “So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive what is due him for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.” (2 Corinthians 5:9,10)
A poem sometimes used in funeral services captures my thoughts more cleverly.
I read of a man who stood to speak at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone from the beginning... to the end.
He noted that first came her date of birth and spoke the following date with tears, but he said what mattered most of all was the “dash” between those years. (1934 -1998)
For that dash represents all the time that she spent alive on earth...and now only those who loved her know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not, how much we own; the cars...the house...the cash, what matters is how we live and love and how we spend our “dash”.
So think about this long and hard...are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left, that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough to consider what's true and real, and always try to understand the way other people feel.
And be less quick to anger, and show appreciation more and love the people in our lives like we've never loved before.
If we treat each other with respect, and more often wear a smile...remembering that this special “dash” might only last a little while.
So, when your eulogy's being read with your life's actions to rehash...would you be proud of the things they say about how you spent your “dash”?
Copyright by Linda Ellis
By the way, Main Street is a fascinating study and great read.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Will we learn from history?
History ought to be teaching us lessons. Too often events, attitudes and actions of the past are discarded in favor of current wisdom. For instance, my mother discarded my baseball card collection because it was taking up space in the attic. In that collection was an Al Kaline rookie card, an early Mickey Mantle and several other Hall of Fame players. Mom innocently discarded value she could not see.
As our culture careens in careless amorality we may learn a great lesson by remembering the past. In 1956, Elvis Presley made a historic appearance on the "Ed Sullivan Show," reaching an audience of 56 million. Incredibly, lest Presley's trademark hip gyrations scandalize the era's conservative viewers, the show's producers issued an unusual order: that the cameras not shoot anything below Mr. Presley's waist. We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?
In the last 25 years many churches disbanded Sunday School and replaced it with nothing. And, Biblical literacy is plummeting. Congregations once agreed to cultural expressions of personal behavior for church membership. Many of the commonly held norms have been jettisoned because they were old fashioned and legalistic. Now we have no stated boundaries of acceptable behavior and the church looks and behaves more like the world than ever. Even pulpit language has been diluted.
Should we go back? I doubt that we can in the short run. But, if we patiently look with a longer view of history, we may learn to deliberately proceed to a rich faith and an admirable life style which reflects our understanding of God’s Word and values our heritage. Peter, when describing early Christian events in the book of Acts used “the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” as an historical mooring post, a connection with the past. God back? We cannot! But, we can go ahead with an appreciation for the past and complete what has been put in motion by our fathers.
As our culture careens in careless amorality we may learn a great lesson by remembering the past. In 1956, Elvis Presley made a historic appearance on the "Ed Sullivan Show," reaching an audience of 56 million. Incredibly, lest Presley's trademark hip gyrations scandalize the era's conservative viewers, the show's producers issued an unusual order: that the cameras not shoot anything below Mr. Presley's waist. We’ve come a long way, haven’t we?
In the last 25 years many churches disbanded Sunday School and replaced it with nothing. And, Biblical literacy is plummeting. Congregations once agreed to cultural expressions of personal behavior for church membership. Many of the commonly held norms have been jettisoned because they were old fashioned and legalistic. Now we have no stated boundaries of acceptable behavior and the church looks and behaves more like the world than ever. Even pulpit language has been diluted.
Should we go back? I doubt that we can in the short run. But, if we patiently look with a longer view of history, we may learn to deliberately proceed to a rich faith and an admirable life style which reflects our understanding of God’s Word and values our heritage. Peter, when describing early Christian events in the book of Acts used “the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob” as an historical mooring post, a connection with the past. God back? We cannot! But, we can go ahead with an appreciation for the past and complete what has been put in motion by our fathers.
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