"Here's the church; here's the steeple; open the doors..." I am certain that I heard those words early in life. In fact, I can remember saying the words and doing the actions in the church where I was first raised in the Christian faith.
From time to time, I've thought about this rhyme; most recently, my daughter has been picking it up from somewhere. All three children seem to know it; I don't know if they learned it in Ghana, or if they have picked it up since living here. I have seen them struggle with getting the hands and fingers in the right places, but they've also struggled with knowing the words.
The words came flooding back: "Here's the church, and here's the steeple. Open the doors, and see all the people. Close the doors, and hear them pray. Open the doors, and they all run away." When I was young, I never really thought about the words. Now, when those words run through my head, I think "Is this really what people think the church is?" Do people really think that it's all about a building? Do people really only pray in church? Where do the people run when "church" is finished?
Those questions may seem ridiculous, but if this rhyme has been taught, and is still being taught to children, then we may be teaching them bad theology and practice. Many churches today are not driven by mission and ministry, but by keeping lights on, doors open, and aging monstrosities of buildings standing. We practice faith by "going to church" on Sunday mornings, but not all of us actually live our faith beyond the walls of the church building. And what do we do when we leave the church - run back to the world and leave our faith behind us?
A cute little rhyme really causes the church damage, because it presents an unclear and unhealthy model of church life. There is very little here that is missional, other than the fact that the church gathers together for worship and prayer. There is nothing in the rhyme that suggests that people live their faith on a moment-by-moment basis, or that they take the faith with them into the world. It suggests, at least to me, the opposite. Let the mission drive the church, not the church driving the mission. Let the people pray without ceasing. Let the people be equipped to share their faith when the enter their homes, economies, and workplaces. When those things happen, THERE's the church!
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Saturday, December 18, 2010
Prophetic Speech
One of my colleagues encouraged me to read an "Advent Blog Tour." The new Common English Bible is promoted through the devotions, which are listed at http://adventblogtour.com/. My colleague is actually writing one of the blogs; from December 1 - December 25, a different blogger writes every day. I have been amazed by the breadth of thinking and delving into Scripture that's been shown. People have shared from their own experiences, and most have wrestled deeply with the text. I have an appreciation for people who wrestle with the Biblical text, and who raise more questions, and have fewer answers.
Today's post was particularly provocative - talking about Simeon's prophecy. If you recall Simeon's conversation with Mary, he talks about what Jesus will cause (rising and falling of nations), and that a sword will pierce her own heart, too. What honesty the prophet brings!
When we preach, we should do what the blogger for the day (December 18) raises as a point. We challenge the comfortable, and comfort the challenged. I believe that statement is true. When people are used to being in their comfort zone, or are complacent, we must challenge them to enact the Gospel in their lives. For those who regularly are challenged because they live Gospeled lives, there is often a need to provide comfort, concern, and compassion.
For preaching to embody both ends of the spectrum, I believe that there is a need for the church to hear a third word: call. Each person who gathers, whether they come to worship complacent or weary from Gospel living, has a call from God for their lives. I believe that a prophetic word always points people back to their calls from God to be in ministry. God's call is both comforting and challenging, so if people are reminded of their calls, they will receive the word of challenge or compassion that they need. The prophetic word brings to the people of God a message that they need, but it starts with call.
Today's post was particularly provocative - talking about Simeon's prophecy. If you recall Simeon's conversation with Mary, he talks about what Jesus will cause (rising and falling of nations), and that a sword will pierce her own heart, too. What honesty the prophet brings!
When we preach, we should do what the blogger for the day (December 18) raises as a point. We challenge the comfortable, and comfort the challenged. I believe that statement is true. When people are used to being in their comfort zone, or are complacent, we must challenge them to enact the Gospel in their lives. For those who regularly are challenged because they live Gospeled lives, there is often a need to provide comfort, concern, and compassion.
For preaching to embody both ends of the spectrum, I believe that there is a need for the church to hear a third word: call. Each person who gathers, whether they come to worship complacent or weary from Gospel living, has a call from God for their lives. I believe that a prophetic word always points people back to their calls from God to be in ministry. God's call is both comforting and challenging, so if people are reminded of their calls, they will receive the word of challenge or compassion that they need. The prophetic word brings to the people of God a message that they need, but it starts with call.
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Engagement
Today, we celebrated worship by having lessons and carols (Advent, mostly, but with a few Christmas carols mixed in). Over the past three years, we've developed six different music ensembles (adult/youth choir; adult/youth handbells; children's chimes; children's choir; praise band; and our newest - brass quartet). It's a lot of ministry opportunities for a small church. Some don't participate; others participate in only one; some participate in many.
When worship was over, someone came up to me and told me how great worship was, and shared awe at how many people participated. That's not a surprise to me, but it certainly can be. Worship is a verb. It's something we do - with hearts and hands and voices. We cannot sit back and observe worship happening. We do not worship unless we are engaged. This morning, well over 2/3 of the congregation participating in LEADING worship by singing, playing, reading Scripture, lighting candles, greeting, or ushering. Worship means something to us when we participate; that's why we don't simply "attend" worship - we "participate" in worship. We get out of any worship experience what we bring to it.
During this season of Advent, as we continue to wait and watch, when we gather for worship, we gather to prepare our hearts; to open them. Maybe we need to have that Advent experience each Sunday - to open ourselves up to encounter God in worship, to engage with the Almighty, to offer our best to Jehovah. We must engage ourselves and be fully present to the Christ who was born, lived among us, died, and rose again.
When worship was over, someone came up to me and told me how great worship was, and shared awe at how many people participated. That's not a surprise to me, but it certainly can be. Worship is a verb. It's something we do - with hearts and hands and voices. We cannot sit back and observe worship happening. We do not worship unless we are engaged. This morning, well over 2/3 of the congregation participating in LEADING worship by singing, playing, reading Scripture, lighting candles, greeting, or ushering. Worship means something to us when we participate; that's why we don't simply "attend" worship - we "participate" in worship. We get out of any worship experience what we bring to it.
During this season of Advent, as we continue to wait and watch, when we gather for worship, we gather to prepare our hearts; to open them. Maybe we need to have that Advent experience each Sunday - to open ourselves up to encounter God in worship, to engage with the Almighty, to offer our best to Jehovah. We must engage ourselves and be fully present to the Christ who was born, lived among us, died, and rose again.
Saturday, December 04, 2010
Footsteps
Yesterday was the first substantial snowfall of the winter season. Earlier in the week, we saw flurries, but this was the kind of snow the kids had been waiting for - it fell steadily for hours. They watched out the window throughout dinner, and I made them take a break and watch The Polar Express, just so they could see the difference in the amount of snow. It snowed much of the night, and flurried for much of the day.
In anticipation, I got out the snowpants that people had given us for the kids. Patience's pant & coat set were a little big, but worked fine. Gideon's pants were WAY too small. Eema didn't even have any, so I knew we were going to have to head out to the store today to get some. The kids were all told that they could not go outside and be in the snow until they had the proper clothing.
Long story short: Gideon couldn't wait - so he went outside before breakfast and wandered around in the snow on our deck. He has been sick for two days, so that wasn't really a good choice. He did not get to go outside and play after our shopping trip (which included two new pairs of gloves because the boys already had holes in their other gloves after two weeks, two pairs of snowpants, and three pairs of boots). Patience and Eema went outside, and had snowball fights, made snow angels, are in the midst of building a snowman, and shoveled some snow.
At one point, Patience and I decided to take a break from the snowman-building action, and we walked over to one of the places where the snowplow had piled the snow from the parking lot. I picked her up and put her on top, and held her (she was scared to be so high up). After a couple of minutes, we walked across the parking lot and back to the fun. When we reached the edge of the parking lot, I looked down. We had returned to the path we'd made in the snow before. In it, I saw two sets of footprints right next to each other, because we had been holding hands. These large footprints contrasted with tiny bootprints; in that moment, I was newly aware of the awesome task of raising up a child in faith. These footprints that trust enough to hold my hand also expect me to lead. I am humbled, and I am blessed.
In anticipation, I got out the snowpants that people had given us for the kids. Patience's pant & coat set were a little big, but worked fine. Gideon's pants were WAY too small. Eema didn't even have any, so I knew we were going to have to head out to the store today to get some. The kids were all told that they could not go outside and be in the snow until they had the proper clothing.
Long story short: Gideon couldn't wait - so he went outside before breakfast and wandered around in the snow on our deck. He has been sick for two days, so that wasn't really a good choice. He did not get to go outside and play after our shopping trip (which included two new pairs of gloves because the boys already had holes in their other gloves after two weeks, two pairs of snowpants, and three pairs of boots). Patience and Eema went outside, and had snowball fights, made snow angels, are in the midst of building a snowman, and shoveled some snow.
At one point, Patience and I decided to take a break from the snowman-building action, and we walked over to one of the places where the snowplow had piled the snow from the parking lot. I picked her up and put her on top, and held her (she was scared to be so high up). After a couple of minutes, we walked across the parking lot and back to the fun. When we reached the edge of the parking lot, I looked down. We had returned to the path we'd made in the snow before. In it, I saw two sets of footprints right next to each other, because we had been holding hands. These large footprints contrasted with tiny bootprints; in that moment, I was newly aware of the awesome task of raising up a child in faith. These footprints that trust enough to hold my hand also expect me to lead. I am humbled, and I am blessed.
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Water-Washed
Several weeks ago, we made the decision to baptize our three children. Not long after we returned to the United States, the boys witnessed a baptism, and expressed their desire to be baptized. We had been looking on the calendars for dates when we would both be available, and the first Sunday in Advent fit our schedules (since we serve different churches).
I've done baptisms before - enough that I'm on the second page in my journal record. I've baptized two people this year, and I know I will baptize more next year. For the weeks leading up to this past Sunday, it wasn't a big deal - in terms of being a pastor. Sunday came, and as I got to the part in the service where I was going to invite my family to come up, it hit me: This was a once-in-a lifetime ministry for them. Baptisms happen frequently, and I perform them frequently, but I would only perform them once for my own children.
Sarah's pastor asked us questions for our daughter, who could not answer for herself. I asked questions of the boys, in ways that they could understand. We poured water in the font and prayed over it. When it came time for the baptism, there were three pastors baptizing - so there were three handfuls of water, times 3 (one for each person of the Trinity). Turns out, that's a lot of water. Their heads were very wet; their clothes were wet; the carpet was wet.
Later, during communion, someone whispered to me, asking why I used so much water. I never really think about it, because I am a firm believer that we need an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. The water reminds us of the sin from which we have been cleansed - we need to see it and feel it; otherwise, it doesn't have the same impact. We are Spirit-born in baptism, but we are also water-washed. We need that sense that we are washed in God's Spirit, and to feel and experience water allows us to do that - it represents the Spirit at work in us, cleansing us and making us right with God.
We ought to take every opportunity to remember our baptism. Each time we get wet, we can sense God's presence through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us. When you swim, take a shower, wash dishes, run through a sprinkler or stroll through the mist, you can remember your baptism, and be thankful for God's amazing unconditional love. We who are baptized are children of God, and when we feel water, we remember who we are, and whose we are.
I've done baptisms before - enough that I'm on the second page in my journal record. I've baptized two people this year, and I know I will baptize more next year. For the weeks leading up to this past Sunday, it wasn't a big deal - in terms of being a pastor. Sunday came, and as I got to the part in the service where I was going to invite my family to come up, it hit me: This was a once-in-a lifetime ministry for them. Baptisms happen frequently, and I perform them frequently, but I would only perform them once for my own children.
Sarah's pastor asked us questions for our daughter, who could not answer for herself. I asked questions of the boys, in ways that they could understand. We poured water in the font and prayed over it. When it came time for the baptism, there were three pastors baptizing - so there were three handfuls of water, times 3 (one for each person of the Trinity). Turns out, that's a lot of water. Their heads were very wet; their clothes were wet; the carpet was wet.
Later, during communion, someone whispered to me, asking why I used so much water. I never really think about it, because I am a firm believer that we need an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. The water reminds us of the sin from which we have been cleansed - we need to see it and feel it; otherwise, it doesn't have the same impact. We are Spirit-born in baptism, but we are also water-washed. We need that sense that we are washed in God's Spirit, and to feel and experience water allows us to do that - it represents the Spirit at work in us, cleansing us and making us right with God.
We ought to take every opportunity to remember our baptism. Each time we get wet, we can sense God's presence through the power of the Holy Spirit at work in us. When you swim, take a shower, wash dishes, run through a sprinkler or stroll through the mist, you can remember your baptism, and be thankful for God's amazing unconditional love. We who are baptized are children of God, and when we feel water, we remember who we are, and whose we are.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Thanksgiving
So, Thanksgiving is Thursday! I'm excited because it's our first Thanksgiving with our children. They asked for a traditional American Thanksgiving dinner, which we are happy to supply. We're going to eat too much turkey (minus my vegetarian self), potatoes, dressing, cranberries, vegetables, and pie. We're going to visit with a family friend for a few hours. We will have dessert with other friends later in the day. Sounds like a great Thanksgiving, right?
Well, yes, but is that the point of Thanksgiving? When I think back to the original purpose of Thanksgiving, it was both a real and necessary time. People were giving God thanks for providing basic food, shelter, and health - all things that many Americans now take for granted. While we think of Thanksgiving as one day out of the year, our ancestors probably were giving God thanks every single moment of every day. I would be too, if I had survived a cholera outbreak, freezing temperatures, and other obstacles.
I think that we need to recover that particular attitude. We need it on Thursday - to be grateful for all that we have been blessed with; but also, because we need it every day. God doesn't just pour out blessings one day a year - blessings are constant and abundant. Why shouldn't we give God thanks each day?
I often find myself drawn to the ancient practice of praying the psalms. The prayerbook of the Bible, the psalms really provide the reader with an opportunity to express their emotions before God. Many of the psalms are psalms of praise and thanksgiving. Perhaps, if we have trouble remembering to give God thanks on a daily basis, we can turn to those psalms as a means to discipline ourselves in the practice of thanking God.
Well, yes, but is that the point of Thanksgiving? When I think back to the original purpose of Thanksgiving, it was both a real and necessary time. People were giving God thanks for providing basic food, shelter, and health - all things that many Americans now take for granted. While we think of Thanksgiving as one day out of the year, our ancestors probably were giving God thanks every single moment of every day. I would be too, if I had survived a cholera outbreak, freezing temperatures, and other obstacles.
I think that we need to recover that particular attitude. We need it on Thursday - to be grateful for all that we have been blessed with; but also, because we need it every day. God doesn't just pour out blessings one day a year - blessings are constant and abundant. Why shouldn't we give God thanks each day?
I often find myself drawn to the ancient practice of praying the psalms. The prayerbook of the Bible, the psalms really provide the reader with an opportunity to express their emotions before God. Many of the psalms are psalms of praise and thanksgiving. Perhaps, if we have trouble remembering to give God thanks on a daily basis, we can turn to those psalms as a means to discipline ourselves in the practice of thanking God.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Do You Love Me?
Earlier this week, I was reading during my devotional time, and came across an excerpt from Richard Foster's book Prayer: Finding the Heart's True Home. I've had Foster's book for most of the last decade, with every intention of reading it; after reading this particular excerpt, I will have to make time to read the book in its entirety.
Foster is commenting on the interaction between Peter and Jesus as they have breakfast on the beach. Here's what Foster reflects: "...Jesus had only one question for Peter: 'Simon, son of John, do you love me?' Jesus did not ask him about his effectiveness, or skill, or anything but his love." That quote has stuck with me all week.
Why? Because the recommendations of the United Methodist Church's Call to Action committee recommend greater effectiveness in clergy leadership. Annual Conference boards of Ordained Ministry have "Ministerial Effectiveness Teams," for the purpose of reviewing candidates for ordination and full conference membership to see if they are effective.
Are pastors effective in ministry? What skills do they show, and how are they improving? These are the kinds of questions that are being asked of clergy at the beginning of (and throughout) their ministries. I suppose effectiveness and skill development translate into fruit, right? Well, when Jesus asked his disciple about ministry, he didn't ask about effectiveness or skill. He asked about his love for Jesus.
Have we moved away from that? Does effectiveness and skill trump one's relationship with God in Jesus Christ? You know, I wish someone would ask me what the evidence is that my relationship with God is growing; that I am more deeply in love with God today than I was yesterday. If we would ask those questions, instead of questions of effectiveness or skill level, we might actually burn with love for Jesus. We might actually be able to tell our story and be witnesses to God's love enacted in our lives.
The renewal of the church will come, not when we evaluate clergy effectiveness and preparedness for ministry, but when we go back to remembering God's call on our lives, and witnessing to growing in God's grace. Maybe we need to return to a simple question for us to reflect on our witness and evangelizing power: "Do I love Jesus?"
Foster is commenting on the interaction between Peter and Jesus as they have breakfast on the beach. Here's what Foster reflects: "...Jesus had only one question for Peter: 'Simon, son of John, do you love me?' Jesus did not ask him about his effectiveness, or skill, or anything but his love." That quote has stuck with me all week.
Why? Because the recommendations of the United Methodist Church's Call to Action committee recommend greater effectiveness in clergy leadership. Annual Conference boards of Ordained Ministry have "Ministerial Effectiveness Teams," for the purpose of reviewing candidates for ordination and full conference membership to see if they are effective.
Are pastors effective in ministry? What skills do they show, and how are they improving? These are the kinds of questions that are being asked of clergy at the beginning of (and throughout) their ministries. I suppose effectiveness and skill development translate into fruit, right? Well, when Jesus asked his disciple about ministry, he didn't ask about effectiveness or skill. He asked about his love for Jesus.
Have we moved away from that? Does effectiveness and skill trump one's relationship with God in Jesus Christ? You know, I wish someone would ask me what the evidence is that my relationship with God is growing; that I am more deeply in love with God today than I was yesterday. If we would ask those questions, instead of questions of effectiveness or skill level, we might actually burn with love for Jesus. We might actually be able to tell our story and be witnesses to God's love enacted in our lives.
The renewal of the church will come, not when we evaluate clergy effectiveness and preparedness for ministry, but when we go back to remembering God's call on our lives, and witnessing to growing in God's grace. Maybe we need to return to a simple question for us to reflect on our witness and evangelizing power: "Do I love Jesus?"
Monday, November 15, 2010
We Need a Little Christmas...
Can I tell you how excited I am about Advent? I love this time of year! One more Sunday (Christ the King), and then we're off to prepare ourselves for Christ's birth. Today, my copy of Worship Arts (the periodical of the Fellowship of United Methodists in Music and Worship Arts) arrived in the mail, with a handwritten note from the editor. I opened it up to find an article I wrote on page 8. I, of course, expected to see the article. It was, however, very different to see it in print, with my name and picture attached. I am humbled to think that God has called me to the awesome task of ministry...which is actually what this particular post is about.
This awesome task of ministry takes on new meaning at low points in congregations. Every congregation experiences them - we get lulled into complacency because everything is going well. People are less likely to get involved at a higher level than they already are. People like how things are, and as long as the boat doesn't get rocked too much, they are satisfied.
When we get into periods of low points, congregations must cheer one another! Sometimes it takes a lot of work and creativity to cheer on people in churches; sometimes, though, it is all too natural. Advent is one of those natural opportunities. Yes, we need a little Christmas, because it brings with it an excitement and joy that is euphoric. BUT, that joy and excitement is heightened by the season of Advent. When we prepare ourselves for Christ's birth, we get in an attitude of expectancy. And really, we need to have that attitude all year long. For four weeks in the church year, we get to experience it, and learn how to be on the alert that God is about to do a great thing, and we want to be a part of it. What if we took that same attitude of expectation that we discover when we do Advent well (and let Christmas be from December 25-January 6), and placed that expectancy in worship each week of the year? It's like having Christmas all year long!
This awesome task of ministry takes on new meaning at low points in congregations. Every congregation experiences them - we get lulled into complacency because everything is going well. People are less likely to get involved at a higher level than they already are. People like how things are, and as long as the boat doesn't get rocked too much, they are satisfied.
When we get into periods of low points, congregations must cheer one another! Sometimes it takes a lot of work and creativity to cheer on people in churches; sometimes, though, it is all too natural. Advent is one of those natural opportunities. Yes, we need a little Christmas, because it brings with it an excitement and joy that is euphoric. BUT, that joy and excitement is heightened by the season of Advent. When we prepare ourselves for Christ's birth, we get in an attitude of expectancy. And really, we need to have that attitude all year long. For four weeks in the church year, we get to experience it, and learn how to be on the alert that God is about to do a great thing, and we want to be a part of it. What if we took that same attitude of expectation that we discover when we do Advent well (and let Christmas be from December 25-January 6), and placed that expectancy in worship each week of the year? It's like having Christmas all year long!
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
Unvocal Minority
I'm just going to come out and say it....I'm an oppressed minority. For weeks, months even, I've been hearing and viewing attack ads on television from a variety of candidates for local, county, state, and national office. Seldom have I heard or read any advertisement that stated the candidates views; more often than not, I simply heard how the other opponent would be a horrible choice, without stating their own position or concrete solutions to the "problems" their opponent caused, or would cause, should they be elected.
I was unsure how to go about finding out what these candidates truly stood for. At the same time, social networking demonstrated to me that there are several whom I count as friends, colleagues, and/or parishoners who are, at the least more outspoken than me about politics - to the point of being ideological on the left or the right. Because I do not side with one camp, I feel ostracized; because I do not stand with the other camp, I feel left out in the cold.
Today is election day for midterm elections in the United States. All day long, what I've heard is "exercise your right to vote - then you have the right to complain if your candidates aren't elected!" Exercise my right vote? Really? When I can't figure out which candidates stand for what, and wondering if my relationships with people are strong enough to stand if I vote for a different candidate than them, should I really be voting? Besides, I strongly believe that our system is broken, and that no candidate from either side can fix it.
I expect to be chided for not voting. After all, it is my civic duty, right? But is it better to vote for someone just to have participated in the process? If I truly don't know what a person stands for, why should I vote for them? Because they go to the same church as me? Because they have "conservative values?" Because they will repeal "Don't ask, don't tell?"
Here's what bothers me most - and now I'm not an unvocal minority - at least I'm expressing my opinion: what about the billions and billions of dollars candidates have spent to get elected? Mudslinging ads, transportation, leaflets, yard signs - all amount to a huge amount of money that could have been used to combat homelessness or hunger; or, it could have simply been used to reduce state and federal deficits. If I don't vote, am I contributing to the problem? Maybe; maybe not - but if I do vote, am I also saying that the mudslinging and vast amounts of wasteful spending on campaign finances is okay?
I may be in the unvocal minority on this issue, but at least I've finally written my thoughts down on paper. As a pastor, I do not feel I can inflict my political opinion on others; but at least I can blog about it. My political opinions are complex; sometimes conservative, sometimes liberal, sometimes neither. I can't be forced to fit into a mold of ideology, nor can I go to the poll in a primary and vote strictly down party lines. There's too much at stake for ideology to take the lead (we simply have to look at the Pharisees to note how that works out).
So, to all who think I'm abandoning my civic duty; I am not. I am very much a part of the political process, and I'm choosing to vote with my absence, because I cannot support candidates who tear one another down, when I'm called to build people up in love. And, I will not be one of the people who complains two years later about those in office; but I will voice my concern regarding our broken system of government. As a pastor, I must 1) pray for wisdom for my elected leaders, and 2) seek for God's will do be done, and not my own.
I was unsure how to go about finding out what these candidates truly stood for. At the same time, social networking demonstrated to me that there are several whom I count as friends, colleagues, and/or parishoners who are, at the least more outspoken than me about politics - to the point of being ideological on the left or the right. Because I do not side with one camp, I feel ostracized; because I do not stand with the other camp, I feel left out in the cold.
Today is election day for midterm elections in the United States. All day long, what I've heard is "exercise your right to vote - then you have the right to complain if your candidates aren't elected!" Exercise my right vote? Really? When I can't figure out which candidates stand for what, and wondering if my relationships with people are strong enough to stand if I vote for a different candidate than them, should I really be voting? Besides, I strongly believe that our system is broken, and that no candidate from either side can fix it.
I expect to be chided for not voting. After all, it is my civic duty, right? But is it better to vote for someone just to have participated in the process? If I truly don't know what a person stands for, why should I vote for them? Because they go to the same church as me? Because they have "conservative values?" Because they will repeal "Don't ask, don't tell?"
Here's what bothers me most - and now I'm not an unvocal minority - at least I'm expressing my opinion: what about the billions and billions of dollars candidates have spent to get elected? Mudslinging ads, transportation, leaflets, yard signs - all amount to a huge amount of money that could have been used to combat homelessness or hunger; or, it could have simply been used to reduce state and federal deficits. If I don't vote, am I contributing to the problem? Maybe; maybe not - but if I do vote, am I also saying that the mudslinging and vast amounts of wasteful spending on campaign finances is okay?
I may be in the unvocal minority on this issue, but at least I've finally written my thoughts down on paper. As a pastor, I do not feel I can inflict my political opinion on others; but at least I can blog about it. My political opinions are complex; sometimes conservative, sometimes liberal, sometimes neither. I can't be forced to fit into a mold of ideology, nor can I go to the poll in a primary and vote strictly down party lines. There's too much at stake for ideology to take the lead (we simply have to look at the Pharisees to note how that works out).
So, to all who think I'm abandoning my civic duty; I am not. I am very much a part of the political process, and I'm choosing to vote with my absence, because I cannot support candidates who tear one another down, when I'm called to build people up in love. And, I will not be one of the people who complains two years later about those in office; but I will voice my concern regarding our broken system of government. As a pastor, I must 1) pray for wisdom for my elected leaders, and 2) seek for God's will do be done, and not my own.
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Mission Dazed-and-Confused
Hmmm. Today, I spent the better portion of the day as the invited leader for a charge (two churches) retreat. We started the day with prayer and Bible study. I handed out sheets with three passages printed - Matthew 28:16-20, Acts 2:42-47, and Mark 12:28-31. I asked them to reflect on two questions: "1) What does this passage say about the Church (universal)? and 2) Does our church look like this? Why or why not?" There was some lively discussion in the three groups. Overall, they seemed pretty clear that they were not fully living out the Great Commandment, the Great Commission, or the example of the early church.
We spent some time talking about their current ministries, pruning ministries that didn't meet the church's mission, and about their congregational make-up. The group in the room represented the church in terms of age, class, etc. We took a lunch break, and then came back to work. I asked them to organize their ministries into three categories: nurture, outreach, and witness. By far, the majority of their ministries were "nurture" ministries, and internally focused. I asked them if their church reflected the community demographics. They initially agreed, but after further discussion, discovered that, no, they in fact did not reflect the community.
I asked them if they were committed to reaching the people in their community that they currently weren't reaching. Each person said yes. I asked them how other people in their congregations would respond. There were mixed feelings. Could they convince the rest of the congregation that reaching their community was important? They were convinced that it was.
I then asked them what they were willing to give up in order to make that happen. Earlier in the day, some dissatisfaction regarding worship was voiced (wanting it to go back to 1950's traditional worship), as well concerns about children conforming to the ways of the church. When these concerns were raised again (in the context of this discussion), I raised the point that, though they have said with their lips that they want to embrace the community and live out Christ's mission for their church, their actions did not align with their lipservice.
Unfortunately, this charge is not an exceptional case in United Methodism, or mainline denominationalism. More often than not, this charge is a microcosm of countless congregations. I have served congregations that paid lipservice to their mission, and continued to expect people to walk in the doors and join them in what they were already doing. Conform, but don't be who you are. We want you here, but don't rock the boat.
We're confused about the mission of the church. We shouldn't be. Jesus made it clear: we are to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Anything less is eventual death. If we don't keep the mission in front of us in all times and places, we get sidetracked, and we turn inward, focusing on maintaining the institution, rather than fulfilling God's mission. God help us!
But it doesn't have to be that way. Stay mission focused. When you evaluate existing ministry or consider developing new ministries, ask how it fulfills the mission. If it doesn't, don't do it! There should be no reason to be dazed and confused about our mission. Let's stay focused, and people will come to know the love of God for themselves.
We spent some time talking about their current ministries, pruning ministries that didn't meet the church's mission, and about their congregational make-up. The group in the room represented the church in terms of age, class, etc. We took a lunch break, and then came back to work. I asked them to organize their ministries into three categories: nurture, outreach, and witness. By far, the majority of their ministries were "nurture" ministries, and internally focused. I asked them if their church reflected the community demographics. They initially agreed, but after further discussion, discovered that, no, they in fact did not reflect the community.
I asked them if they were committed to reaching the people in their community that they currently weren't reaching. Each person said yes. I asked them how other people in their congregations would respond. There were mixed feelings. Could they convince the rest of the congregation that reaching their community was important? They were convinced that it was.
I then asked them what they were willing to give up in order to make that happen. Earlier in the day, some dissatisfaction regarding worship was voiced (wanting it to go back to 1950's traditional worship), as well concerns about children conforming to the ways of the church. When these concerns were raised again (in the context of this discussion), I raised the point that, though they have said with their lips that they want to embrace the community and live out Christ's mission for their church, their actions did not align with their lipservice.
Unfortunately, this charge is not an exceptional case in United Methodism, or mainline denominationalism. More often than not, this charge is a microcosm of countless congregations. I have served congregations that paid lipservice to their mission, and continued to expect people to walk in the doors and join them in what they were already doing. Conform, but don't be who you are. We want you here, but don't rock the boat.
We're confused about the mission of the church. We shouldn't be. Jesus made it clear: we are to make disciples of Jesus Christ. Anything less is eventual death. If we don't keep the mission in front of us in all times and places, we get sidetracked, and we turn inward, focusing on maintaining the institution, rather than fulfilling God's mission. God help us!
But it doesn't have to be that way. Stay mission focused. When you evaluate existing ministry or consider developing new ministries, ask how it fulfills the mission. If it doesn't, don't do it! There should be no reason to be dazed and confused about our mission. Let's stay focused, and people will come to know the love of God for themselves.
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Pharisees and Tax Collectors
Today's Gospel text was from Luke 18 (9-14, to be exact) - the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector. I think this text can be interpreted in many different ways. The classic interpretation is about humility. Yes, I think that's true - it's about humility. Our Christian formation lessons interpreted the text to say that everyone is equal, because God hears our prayers equally. My interpretation was a different spin.
We're all Pharisees - trying to make a list and check it twice. When you read the text, you see this Pharisee's list: "I fast twice a week, give a tenth of my income..." If I just do that, then I have followed the rules, and that justifies my relationship with God. The tax collector is us, too - because every day, we need to realize our sinfulness, repent, and put ourselves right with God again. In all times and circumstances, we can be the Pharisee, the tax collector, or both.
As I pointed out in my sermon - the Pharisee is concerned about getting it right; the tax collector is concerned about relationship. People who want to simply show up to worship and put a check in the plate are concerned about getting it right, and checking off their list. We have accomplished what God wanted us to do. We've followed the rules. We've done our duty. Unfortunately, one can be extraordinarily involved in the church - come to every Bible study, participate in every mission project, and more - and still be following the rules. Rules do not equate a relationship.
I think, so often, we forget that life is not about rules, but about relationship. This idea is true for so many aspects of our lives. Take the upcoming election, for instance. Is it more important for our ideologies about candidates, political parties, and way of thinking be right, or is it more important to be in relationship with people? Let's look at the text: who does Jesus say is justified? It's the one who humbled himself to be in relationship with God. Relationship always triumphs over right-ness.
The Pharisees and the tax collectors have been around us for centuries. At times, we've been one or the other - or both. But God keeps pouring out grace upon grace - so that whether we are a tax collector or a Pharisee - we can grow our relationship with God in love.
We're all Pharisees - trying to make a list and check it twice. When you read the text, you see this Pharisee's list: "I fast twice a week, give a tenth of my income..." If I just do that, then I have followed the rules, and that justifies my relationship with God. The tax collector is us, too - because every day, we need to realize our sinfulness, repent, and put ourselves right with God again. In all times and circumstances, we can be the Pharisee, the tax collector, or both.
As I pointed out in my sermon - the Pharisee is concerned about getting it right; the tax collector is concerned about relationship. People who want to simply show up to worship and put a check in the plate are concerned about getting it right, and checking off their list. We have accomplished what God wanted us to do. We've followed the rules. We've done our duty. Unfortunately, one can be extraordinarily involved in the church - come to every Bible study, participate in every mission project, and more - and still be following the rules. Rules do not equate a relationship.
I think, so often, we forget that life is not about rules, but about relationship. This idea is true for so many aspects of our lives. Take the upcoming election, for instance. Is it more important for our ideologies about candidates, political parties, and way of thinking be right, or is it more important to be in relationship with people? Let's look at the text: who does Jesus say is justified? It's the one who humbled himself to be in relationship with God. Relationship always triumphs over right-ness.
The Pharisees and the tax collectors have been around us for centuries. At times, we've been one or the other - or both. But God keeps pouring out grace upon grace - so that whether we are a tax collector or a Pharisee - we can grow our relationship with God in love.
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Faith Crisis?
Last time I blogged, I wrote about the political uprising in our country, and the need for systemic change. Each day, I become more disillusioned by the commentary, not just in our media, but by my Christian brothers and sisters related to politics. I know people who are more vocal about their political ideologies than about their faith. I have read, seen, and heard more mudslinging in this election by people who call themselves Christians than I care to write about. Frankly, it makes me sick!
I wonder why we are so focused on political crisis, and if we should be focused on a crisis of faith? Perhaps, if we focus on politics, we really don't have to look at it through our lens of Christian faith. BUT - the ancient church always encouraged people to let their faith inform their politics. In fact, their faith was a political movement. We don't have a political crisis these days; we have a crisis of faith.
I have been wondering if I'm in a crisis of faith as we move ever closer toward election day. More slinging of mud, polarization and other painful unChristian behavior is on the horizon - and I wonder if people really practice their faith anymore, or if they only practice their political ideologies. That is, until Friday. I took my children to Steak-n-Shake after school, as a treat. We ordered milkshakes (half-price during happy hour!), fries, and onion rings. We were in the middle of enjoying our snack when the manager came over and said, "This woman just paid for your meal." I didn't have time to see her (she left the restaurant already), but written on our swapped-out ticket was a note from the woman - "Have a fun day! - Nancy". This woman saw that we were out as a family, and getting ready to go to the Homecoming game, and showed us an act of Christian love. And I was grateful - not just because we got a gift of a free meal, but also (and more importantly) because I got to see a glimpse of Christian faith in action. In the midst of Christians not acting and talking like Christians, there are still some that practice their faith in word and deed. I am hopeful that our faith will win over our ideologies someday.
I wonder why we are so focused on political crisis, and if we should be focused on a crisis of faith? Perhaps, if we focus on politics, we really don't have to look at it through our lens of Christian faith. BUT - the ancient church always encouraged people to let their faith inform their politics. In fact, their faith was a political movement. We don't have a political crisis these days; we have a crisis of faith.
I have been wondering if I'm in a crisis of faith as we move ever closer toward election day. More slinging of mud, polarization and other painful unChristian behavior is on the horizon - and I wonder if people really practice their faith anymore, or if they only practice their political ideologies. That is, until Friday. I took my children to Steak-n-Shake after school, as a treat. We ordered milkshakes (half-price during happy hour!), fries, and onion rings. We were in the middle of enjoying our snack when the manager came over and said, "This woman just paid for your meal." I didn't have time to see her (she left the restaurant already), but written on our swapped-out ticket was a note from the woman - "Have a fun day! - Nancy". This woman saw that we were out as a family, and getting ready to go to the Homecoming game, and showed us an act of Christian love. And I was grateful - not just because we got a gift of a free meal, but also (and more importantly) because I got to see a glimpse of Christian faith in action. In the midst of Christians not acting and talking like Christians, there are still some that practice their faith in word and deed. I am hopeful that our faith will win over our ideologies someday.
Thursday, October 14, 2010
God's Politics
Did you know there's a mid-term election in just a couple of weeks? I have a hard time believing that no one would know that, based upon the advertisements on television, in newspapers, and the running commentaries on social media. Many candidates seem to be more intent on smearing their opponents than representing themselves to the general population. People continue to become more polarized day by day.
I have been reading comments lately that "conservatives" or "traditionalists" need a voice; I've observed conversations where "liberal" or "democrat" was said with more venom than a snake poised to bite. It's as though people think that, by shuffling the players in Congress, the White House, state, or local government, everything will get better. Our track record as a nation really shows that, no matter who leads us - Democrats, Republicans, liberals, conservatives, or a tea party - we continue to have problems and issues that face us. Before you know it, the name-calling and politicking begins again - and the cycle returns.
The issues the United States faces have much less to do with party lines, conservatives, traditionalism, or liberals. The issues the United States faces have to do with a broken system. If you re-shuffle the chairs on the Titanic, without addressing the numerous points of leakage, you still have a sinking ship. Rearranging the chairs does nothing to stop the onslaught of water; it does, however, give us something to do to distract us from doing the really hard work of transforming the system in which we live and work.
Yes, this blog seems like it's really about politics, and to some extent, it is. But, I believe that the systemic issues of the United States reflect what happens in the current church; it is also a reflection of Jewish life at the time of Jesus. The Judaic law that was so highly touted by Pharisees simply allowed them to rearrange the chairs. Yes, they followed the law, but they had no relationship with God. When Jesus enters the scene, he forces systemic change throughout all of Jewish life. Jesus didn't come to set up smokescreens; he came to heal brokenness.
God's politics require us to look at the heart of the matter - not our different and divergent opinions, but at what we can do to effect real systemic change. We need that, both for our country, and our churches.
I have been reading comments lately that "conservatives" or "traditionalists" need a voice; I've observed conversations where "liberal" or "democrat" was said with more venom than a snake poised to bite. It's as though people think that, by shuffling the players in Congress, the White House, state, or local government, everything will get better. Our track record as a nation really shows that, no matter who leads us - Democrats, Republicans, liberals, conservatives, or a tea party - we continue to have problems and issues that face us. Before you know it, the name-calling and politicking begins again - and the cycle returns.
The issues the United States faces have much less to do with party lines, conservatives, traditionalism, or liberals. The issues the United States faces have to do with a broken system. If you re-shuffle the chairs on the Titanic, without addressing the numerous points of leakage, you still have a sinking ship. Rearranging the chairs does nothing to stop the onslaught of water; it does, however, give us something to do to distract us from doing the really hard work of transforming the system in which we live and work.
Yes, this blog seems like it's really about politics, and to some extent, it is. But, I believe that the systemic issues of the United States reflect what happens in the current church; it is also a reflection of Jewish life at the time of Jesus. The Judaic law that was so highly touted by Pharisees simply allowed them to rearrange the chairs. Yes, they followed the law, but they had no relationship with God. When Jesus enters the scene, he forces systemic change throughout all of Jewish life. Jesus didn't come to set up smokescreens; he came to heal brokenness.
God's politics require us to look at the heart of the matter - not our different and divergent opinions, but at what we can do to effect real systemic change. We need that, both for our country, and our churches.
Saturday, October 09, 2010
Numbers and Forms
This week, I sent off our paperwork for our annual charge conference. I did my best to make certain every "t" was crossed, and every "i" was dotted (particularly because my son gets 1/2 point counted off on his spelling test for those errors). I also used our conference dashboard system, which reports our weekly worship attendance, baptisms, professions of faith, new members, those released, etc.
I accomplished all of this work, but I feel no sense of accomplishment. While numbers, statistics, and forms are important, none of them make a church. Yet, denominational leaders want those numbers as an indication of vitality and health (or lack thereof). What is one to do? I don't see a lot of evidence anywhere in the book of Acts, or the Epistles, where numbers mattered more than people. Even in the famous Pentecost passage in Acts 2, the focus is on people and discipleship, beginning with conversion. A number is simply mentioned at the end.
I will not discount that numbers are important, but I can assure you that, for most of this week, instead of making disciples (and I did do some of that), I was running around, making sure that I kept entering the correct number s for the dashboard, making sure forms were filled out, signed, and copied on the correct color. I wonder if, instead of reporting numbers, I had been out in the community building relationships, if there would be more followers of Jesus. I wonder if, instead of making sure the pastor's report was on blue paper, but the compensation reduction was on green, I had been able to visit someone in the hospital or stop by someone's home who visited the church for the first time last week, a disciple would have been made.
Discipleship or reporting? Which really matters for God's kingdom? I think it should be both - but the balance needs to be tipped toward discipleship. We cannot expect churches to be transformed simply by reporting numbers. While I appreciate the accountability, it does not drive me to make disciples. Good news drives me to make and form disciples.
I accomplished all of this work, but I feel no sense of accomplishment. While numbers, statistics, and forms are important, none of them make a church. Yet, denominational leaders want those numbers as an indication of vitality and health (or lack thereof). What is one to do? I don't see a lot of evidence anywhere in the book of Acts, or the Epistles, where numbers mattered more than people. Even in the famous Pentecost passage in Acts 2, the focus is on people and discipleship, beginning with conversion. A number is simply mentioned at the end.
I will not discount that numbers are important, but I can assure you that, for most of this week, instead of making disciples (and I did do some of that), I was running around, making sure that I kept entering the correct number s for the dashboard, making sure forms were filled out, signed, and copied on the correct color. I wonder if, instead of reporting numbers, I had been out in the community building relationships, if there would be more followers of Jesus. I wonder if, instead of making sure the pastor's report was on blue paper, but the compensation reduction was on green, I had been able to visit someone in the hospital or stop by someone's home who visited the church for the first time last week, a disciple would have been made.
Discipleship or reporting? Which really matters for God's kingdom? I think it should be both - but the balance needs to be tipped toward discipleship. We cannot expect churches to be transformed simply by reporting numbers. While I appreciate the accountability, it does not drive me to make disciples. Good news drives me to make and form disciples.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
Practice, Practice, Practice
This blog has existed in cyberspace for about five years. When I first started it, I had the intention of writing about the ancient practices of the church, and how we can use those practices in innovative ways to renew and revitalize the church. I used to write regularly, but then I got out of the habit. Then, I set my New Year's resolution for 2010 - that I would attempt to blog once a week for the entire year.
I did really well, and then I traveled to Ghana to adopt my children. I tried...I really, really did. I blogged while in Ghana...then I blogged when I got home...but somehow, the regular rhythm of blogging on Fridays as part of my Sabbath has no longer become a rhythm. I have children to raise, I need to be a husband, a church to pastor, students to teach, lawns to mow, laundry to be washed, a house to be clean, meals to cook...and...and...and...they're all good reasons, but they quickly become an excuse. If we want something to become a practice and a rhythm in our lives, we actually have to practice it, on a regular basis. If I want to blog weekly, I need to practice doing that.
The ancient practices of the church are the same. If you look at Acts chapter 2, verses 42-47, you see the ancient practices listed; John Wesley's listing of works of piety and works of mercy includes all of the ancient practices - like reading and studying Scripture; praying; worshiping; receiving communion; caring for the stranger; visiting the sick and imprisoned, and more. If you don't practice those "works" regularly, then you do not have a rhythm of spiritual life.
I marvel at persons and churches (and pastors) who do not regularly practice a spiritual life; and for United Methodists, how we can not regularly practice works of piety and mercy. Just this week, I was with a group of clergy, and I was pushing them to move beyond spending our meetings in fellowship to Christian conferencing about community ministry, and about doing hands-on mission work. I met with some resistance, and I was not surprised. Authentic Christian community delves deeper than fellowship and surface relationships. If we, as clergy, cannot delve deeper and practice works of piety and mercy on a regular basis, how can we expect people in our churches to do the same? The simple answer is that we can't.
I believe that the renewal of the present church will come when congregational leaders (clergy and lay), and every layperson engages regularly in ancient practices of faith, in works of piety and mercy. My expectation, if we do so, is that, although numerical growth may take time, we will see people regularly being saved because they see that we live our lives as though our faith transforms us.
I did really well, and then I traveled to Ghana to adopt my children. I tried...I really, really did. I blogged while in Ghana...then I blogged when I got home...but somehow, the regular rhythm of blogging on Fridays as part of my Sabbath has no longer become a rhythm. I have children to raise, I need to be a husband, a church to pastor, students to teach, lawns to mow, laundry to be washed, a house to be clean, meals to cook...and...and...and...they're all good reasons, but they quickly become an excuse. If we want something to become a practice and a rhythm in our lives, we actually have to practice it, on a regular basis. If I want to blog weekly, I need to practice doing that.
The ancient practices of the church are the same. If you look at Acts chapter 2, verses 42-47, you see the ancient practices listed; John Wesley's listing of works of piety and works of mercy includes all of the ancient practices - like reading and studying Scripture; praying; worshiping; receiving communion; caring for the stranger; visiting the sick and imprisoned, and more. If you don't practice those "works" regularly, then you do not have a rhythm of spiritual life.
I marvel at persons and churches (and pastors) who do not regularly practice a spiritual life; and for United Methodists, how we can not regularly practice works of piety and mercy. Just this week, I was with a group of clergy, and I was pushing them to move beyond spending our meetings in fellowship to Christian conferencing about community ministry, and about doing hands-on mission work. I met with some resistance, and I was not surprised. Authentic Christian community delves deeper than fellowship and surface relationships. If we, as clergy, cannot delve deeper and practice works of piety and mercy on a regular basis, how can we expect people in our churches to do the same? The simple answer is that we can't.
I believe that the renewal of the present church will come when congregational leaders (clergy and lay), and every layperson engages regularly in ancient practices of faith, in works of piety and mercy. My expectation, if we do so, is that, although numerical growth may take time, we will see people regularly being saved because they see that we live our lives as though our faith transforms us.
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Get Out Your Labelmaker
My wife was out with our youngest son today, and stopped on her way home from worship with him to pick up some medicine. While at the store, she saw a man staring at her and my son - repeatedly. Suffice it to say, by the time they left the store and got in the car, the man was in his car and followed them. He pulled up next to them at a stoplight, rolled down his window, and started referring to my son as a "n" word.
Frankly, we expected that there would be racial tension because of our extended family; but until the label was spewed out of this man's mouth, we did not understand the full extent of a label.
We use labels all the time in our society: conservative, liberal, Democrat, Republican, left, right, racist, homophobic, right, wrong, selfish...and so on. While labels may identify us, they do so at the peril of dividing us. It is painful and speaks of our human condition. We spend too much time focused on our differences, rather than what brings us together. There is unity in diversity.
If I had to get out my labelmaker today, I would only type in and print one label: follower of Jesus Christ. No matter where we are in the church, where we fall on the spectrum of politics, religion, or any other issue, what brings us together is our common faith in Jesus Christ. The other labels don't matter. Jesus is stronger than any label...which reminds me - I need to pray for the guy who referred to my son by the "n" word...because he needs Jesus, just as much as I do!
Frankly, we expected that there would be racial tension because of our extended family; but until the label was spewed out of this man's mouth, we did not understand the full extent of a label.
We use labels all the time in our society: conservative, liberal, Democrat, Republican, left, right, racist, homophobic, right, wrong, selfish...and so on. While labels may identify us, they do so at the peril of dividing us. It is painful and speaks of our human condition. We spend too much time focused on our differences, rather than what brings us together. There is unity in diversity.
If I had to get out my labelmaker today, I would only type in and print one label: follower of Jesus Christ. No matter where we are in the church, where we fall on the spectrum of politics, religion, or any other issue, what brings us together is our common faith in Jesus Christ. The other labels don't matter. Jesus is stronger than any label...which reminds me - I need to pray for the guy who referred to my son by the "n" word...because he needs Jesus, just as much as I do!
Sunday, September 05, 2010
Labor Day
Tomorrow is Labor Day...the first Monday in September every year is a holiday (notice how that's a mashed-together word made up of "holy" and "day") to celebrate those who labor and give them rest. I find this concept ironic for a number of reasons. One reason is simply that, as I looked at the advertisements in today's newspaper, almost every insert had a special "Labor Day" sale, with savings for shoppers. While I'm not about to complain about saving some cash, if Labor Day is a day about celebrating those who labor and give them rest, then why are there people waiting on me if I go out to a store or a restaurant tomorrow? Really - give it a rest!
...which brings me to my main point. Labor Day - a day of rest - one day a year...really? God commands us a day of rest each week. It's called Sabbath. While hard to understand, and even more difficult to put into practice, Sabbath is an ancient practice that we Christians are called to live into weekly. I don't need a government holiday (which looks nothing like the sabbath, with parades and shopping and barbeques and...) to live into Sabbath. What I need (and what Christians need) is a regular day each week in which to rest in God. That rest looks different for each person. Personally, I've found Receiving the Day from the Jossey-Bass series, Keeping the Sabbath Wholly, by Marva Dawn, and Sabbath from the "Ancient Practices" series to be most helpful in shaping how I practice Sabbath.
I was most refreshed by Sabbath when I was finishing seminary. I had just read Marva Dawn's book the previous summer, and decided that I wanted to put her ideas into practice. Basically, she offers for areas of focus: worship, eating, care for the body, and rest. Each Sunday (because in those days, Sunday was my Sabbath), I would "work" by carrying out my job on staff at a local United Methodist church. When I arrived home, I would cook a healthy lunch (for me in those days, that meant that I cooked an entire well-balanced meal, which was different than a granola bar or frozen pizza). After lunch, I would do some Bible study, spiritual reading, and pray. I would then take a nap, wake up, and take a walk outside. I might work on homework for some portion of the early evening, eat again, and then head to Compline at a local Episcopal church for an additional worship opportunity (where I was not responsible for worship leadership). While the day was full, it was focused on God for all 24 hours - in resting, in eating the fruits God had given, by caring for the body God gave me, and by focusing on God.
I long for those days. Now, the Sabbath (Friday) is often full of errands, taking kids to school and picking them up, or housework. I still, though, try to at least focus on God for some portion of the day. I try to continue my devotional life (Bible study, prayer, spiritual reading), and I also tend to write this blog on Fridays. Sabbath looks different for me now than it did five years ago - but it is still Sabbath. Sabbath is regular - it is a part of the rhythm of my week.
I need more than a Labor Day. I need regular Sabbath that honors God.
...which brings me to my main point. Labor Day - a day of rest - one day a year...really? God commands us a day of rest each week. It's called Sabbath. While hard to understand, and even more difficult to put into practice, Sabbath is an ancient practice that we Christians are called to live into weekly. I don't need a government holiday (which looks nothing like the sabbath, with parades and shopping and barbeques and...) to live into Sabbath. What I need (and what Christians need) is a regular day each week in which to rest in God. That rest looks different for each person. Personally, I've found Receiving the Day from the Jossey-Bass series, Keeping the Sabbath Wholly, by Marva Dawn, and Sabbath from the "Ancient Practices" series to be most helpful in shaping how I practice Sabbath.
I was most refreshed by Sabbath when I was finishing seminary. I had just read Marva Dawn's book the previous summer, and decided that I wanted to put her ideas into practice. Basically, she offers for areas of focus: worship, eating, care for the body, and rest. Each Sunday (because in those days, Sunday was my Sabbath), I would "work" by carrying out my job on staff at a local United Methodist church. When I arrived home, I would cook a healthy lunch (for me in those days, that meant that I cooked an entire well-balanced meal, which was different than a granola bar or frozen pizza). After lunch, I would do some Bible study, spiritual reading, and pray. I would then take a nap, wake up, and take a walk outside. I might work on homework for some portion of the early evening, eat again, and then head to Compline at a local Episcopal church for an additional worship opportunity (where I was not responsible for worship leadership). While the day was full, it was focused on God for all 24 hours - in resting, in eating the fruits God had given, by caring for the body God gave me, and by focusing on God.
I long for those days. Now, the Sabbath (Friday) is often full of errands, taking kids to school and picking them up, or housework. I still, though, try to at least focus on God for some portion of the day. I try to continue my devotional life (Bible study, prayer, spiritual reading), and I also tend to write this blog on Fridays. Sabbath looks different for me now than it did five years ago - but it is still Sabbath. Sabbath is regular - it is a part of the rhythm of my week.
I need more than a Labor Day. I need regular Sabbath that honors God.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
When is it time to prune?
Congregations have at least one ministry: worship. At the very least, a congregation worships together on a regular basis, be it once a week, twice a month, etc. Hopefully, congregations are doing more than just worshiping together; I hope they are practicing works of piety and mercy corporately. It could be a Sunday School (a term I despise, by the way - it's very antiquated; I prefer the term Christian formation, because that's what that time actually does), Bible studies, weekday children's ministries, youth mission trips, or Vacation Bible Schools. It could be soup suppers to raise money for mission, fellowship dinners, outings to the ballpark, or other activities.
The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. I believe that if a church wants to call itself a church, it has to fulfill that mission. Hopefully, worship fulfills the mission. From time to time, though, we need to prune our other ministries (and I use that term loosely) so that we refocus ourselves on the mission. I believe that church ministries can be divided into three categories: ones that actively make disciples, ones that secondarily make disciples, and ones that pay bills. The rub, for many people, is that the ministries that they hold near and dear ("sacred cows") are often ministries that exist to pay bills. The pancake breakfast that supports the trustees budget, the annual sale of nuts that sends money to third-world countries, or the rummage sale that pays for apportionments are all "ministries," but they exist primarily to pay bills.
Churches must ask themselves if they can transform these ministries so that they either primarily or secondarily make disciples. I'm of the opinion that, if a ministry can't be transformed, it needs to be pruned. Congregations expend too much time and energy on ministries that "pay the bills," instead of focusing on active works of piety and mercy.
My congregation annually assesses their ministry in this way, and we have done some major pruning in the past two years. Now, as I begin my third year with them, we are looking again at pruning another ministry - in fact, one that we transformed from "paying the bills" to "secondarily makes disciples" last year. Our annual pumpkin patch (which has occurred for the last five years) uses the funds raised to support camp scholarships, as well as youth ministry. We raise a decent amount of money, and the church gets some press and visibility in the community. Last year, we focused our preschool portion of the pumpkin patch to be faith-based (crafts and stories), and we intentionally handed out information about the church, sent written prayers home with each pumpkin sold, and extended radical hospitality to customers.
Sounds like it secondarily makes disciples, right? Well, it does, in a way, but mostly it helps those who are a part of the church grow in their faith as they serve. In five years, not one person has come to the church because of the pumpkin patch ministry; no one soul has been saved. This ministry does not actively make disciples. At the same time, it requires an enormous amount of concentrated energy and time from the congregation. In the end, we use so much energy and time, but we have not fulfilled the mission of the church. Is it time to prune?
When you look at the ministries of your church, which ones actively make disciples of Jesus Christ, both inside and outside the church? Which ones could do that if they were tweaked or re-focused? The greater question, though, is this: what ministries take the most time and energy of your congregation, but don't fulfill the church's mission.
Maintain focus; that's what the early church did. They did ministries that actively made disciples - worship, small groups, taking care of needs of people, study, and prayer. When churches get back to the basics and remove all of the extra "stuff" that distracts them, they grow. I am reminded of the rose bushes in front of the parsonage. This year, we planted new ones. Twice, they have been cut back, and they are now in the middle of their third round of blossoming. We don't produce fruit unless we prune; the time to prune is now!
The mission of the church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. I believe that if a church wants to call itself a church, it has to fulfill that mission. Hopefully, worship fulfills the mission. From time to time, though, we need to prune our other ministries (and I use that term loosely) so that we refocus ourselves on the mission. I believe that church ministries can be divided into three categories: ones that actively make disciples, ones that secondarily make disciples, and ones that pay bills. The rub, for many people, is that the ministries that they hold near and dear ("sacred cows") are often ministries that exist to pay bills. The pancake breakfast that supports the trustees budget, the annual sale of nuts that sends money to third-world countries, or the rummage sale that pays for apportionments are all "ministries," but they exist primarily to pay bills.
Churches must ask themselves if they can transform these ministries so that they either primarily or secondarily make disciples. I'm of the opinion that, if a ministry can't be transformed, it needs to be pruned. Congregations expend too much time and energy on ministries that "pay the bills," instead of focusing on active works of piety and mercy.
My congregation annually assesses their ministry in this way, and we have done some major pruning in the past two years. Now, as I begin my third year with them, we are looking again at pruning another ministry - in fact, one that we transformed from "paying the bills" to "secondarily makes disciples" last year. Our annual pumpkin patch (which has occurred for the last five years) uses the funds raised to support camp scholarships, as well as youth ministry. We raise a decent amount of money, and the church gets some press and visibility in the community. Last year, we focused our preschool portion of the pumpkin patch to be faith-based (crafts and stories), and we intentionally handed out information about the church, sent written prayers home with each pumpkin sold, and extended radical hospitality to customers.
Sounds like it secondarily makes disciples, right? Well, it does, in a way, but mostly it helps those who are a part of the church grow in their faith as they serve. In five years, not one person has come to the church because of the pumpkin patch ministry; no one soul has been saved. This ministry does not actively make disciples. At the same time, it requires an enormous amount of concentrated energy and time from the congregation. In the end, we use so much energy and time, but we have not fulfilled the mission of the church. Is it time to prune?
When you look at the ministries of your church, which ones actively make disciples of Jesus Christ, both inside and outside the church? Which ones could do that if they were tweaked or re-focused? The greater question, though, is this: what ministries take the most time and energy of your congregation, but don't fulfill the church's mission.
Maintain focus; that's what the early church did. They did ministries that actively made disciples - worship, small groups, taking care of needs of people, study, and prayer. When churches get back to the basics and remove all of the extra "stuff" that distracts them, they grow. I am reminded of the rose bushes in front of the parsonage. This year, we planted new ones. Twice, they have been cut back, and they are now in the middle of their third round of blossoming. We don't produce fruit unless we prune; the time to prune is now!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
If You Have a Gift, Give It!
I recently completed my annual self-assessment for consultation with my district superintendent. We had to list strengths and weaknesses. One area that I felt weak in was pastoral care. I may give the appearance that I listen deeply to people, but I don't always. My mind can wander in conversations if I'm not entirely invested in them. I care, but only to a certain extent. Compassion and empathy are not my spiritual gifts.
Thank goodness that it doesn't depend on me, even though it's an area where I need improvement. In Paul's letters, he talks about spiritual gifts, and that each person is uniquely gifted for ministry. Some people have diverse gifts, while others have noticeably fewer. Whatever the gifts, they are specific to each person.
What does that mean for me, for the church, and for the annual consultation? It means that, even though I don't have the gift of compassion and empathy, someone else in my congregation does. For those without musical gifts, or exhortation, I can make up for that. Together, the body of Christ is stronger because people use their spiritual gifts for the purpose of ministry.
The key word is "use." No gift is helpful in building up the body of Christ if it remains unused. Unused gifts atrophy and lose their usefulness. AND, the body of Christ suffers. What good is a gift if it isn't used? If you have a gift - give it! When every member of a congregation uses their spiritual gifts, it is one of the vital signs of congregational health. Use those gifts - because the church is at its best when all parts are functioning fully.
Thank goodness that it doesn't depend on me, even though it's an area where I need improvement. In Paul's letters, he talks about spiritual gifts, and that each person is uniquely gifted for ministry. Some people have diverse gifts, while others have noticeably fewer. Whatever the gifts, they are specific to each person.
What does that mean for me, for the church, and for the annual consultation? It means that, even though I don't have the gift of compassion and empathy, someone else in my congregation does. For those without musical gifts, or exhortation, I can make up for that. Together, the body of Christ is stronger because people use their spiritual gifts for the purpose of ministry.
The key word is "use." No gift is helpful in building up the body of Christ if it remains unused. Unused gifts atrophy and lose their usefulness. AND, the body of Christ suffers. What good is a gift if it isn't used? If you have a gift - give it! When every member of a congregation uses their spiritual gifts, it is one of the vital signs of congregational health. Use those gifts - because the church is at its best when all parts are functioning fully.
Friday, August 06, 2010
Hands and Feet
The recent ruling in California to overturn Proposition 8 has had me thinking about hands and feet. While that thought process may seem out of the ordinary, it makes sense to me. For a long time, I've listened to people talk about homosexuality - on both sides of the debate - in the church. I wonder, at times, why it is such a hot issue for folks. Is it because they struggle with their own sexuality? Do they want full inclusion for power's sake? Really, homosexuality doesn't define the church - it is the hands and feet of Christ who define the church.
I think homosexuality is a complex discussion. For those who cite the six Scripture passages related to homosexuality, I very much understand where they are coming from - the Bible tells us that homosexuality is a sin. So is eating shellfish - so I wonder if those persons can pull out the log from their own eye when they are sitting at Red Lobster enjoying shrimp scampi and plotting their next anti-homosexual picketing event. Yes, Scripture says homosexuality is wrong - but there is a list of 613 Old Testament laws the few of us follow. If we're going to follow the Bible, then let's follow all of it - not just the passages that support our position.
But wait - I'm not a Bible follower - I'm a Jesus follower. While I preach from the Bible every week, I think it's more important to preach Jesus. After all, Jesus is the founder of the church. He is my Lord and Savior, and because I follow Jesus, I need to be the hands and feet of Christ.
If I am to be the hands and feet of Christ, then whom should I love? If I looked at those that Jesus showed love towards, I should love homosexuals and heterosexuals. I should love those who speak with hatred, and those who engage in sinful acts. I think of a couple of lesbians I have been friends with for a number of years - married in California prior to Proposition 8 - who are daily being the hands and feet of Christ. They act with compassion, mercy, and conviction; countless other gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons do so.
So, what should one do with this "moral dilemma?" Sweep it under the rug? Let it divide us? Allow it to dictate the direction of the church's mission and ministry, rather than the teachings of Jesus? Folks, we've got bigger fish to fry. The world needs us to be the hands and feet of Christ; when we do anything less, we make a mockery of the Gospel, and in the words of Bonhoeffer, offer cheap grace.
I think homosexuality is a complex discussion. For those who cite the six Scripture passages related to homosexuality, I very much understand where they are coming from - the Bible tells us that homosexuality is a sin. So is eating shellfish - so I wonder if those persons can pull out the log from their own eye when they are sitting at Red Lobster enjoying shrimp scampi and plotting their next anti-homosexual picketing event. Yes, Scripture says homosexuality is wrong - but there is a list of 613 Old Testament laws the few of us follow. If we're going to follow the Bible, then let's follow all of it - not just the passages that support our position.
But wait - I'm not a Bible follower - I'm a Jesus follower. While I preach from the Bible every week, I think it's more important to preach Jesus. After all, Jesus is the founder of the church. He is my Lord and Savior, and because I follow Jesus, I need to be the hands and feet of Christ.
If I am to be the hands and feet of Christ, then whom should I love? If I looked at those that Jesus showed love towards, I should love homosexuals and heterosexuals. I should love those who speak with hatred, and those who engage in sinful acts. I think of a couple of lesbians I have been friends with for a number of years - married in California prior to Proposition 8 - who are daily being the hands and feet of Christ. They act with compassion, mercy, and conviction; countless other gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgendered persons do so.
So, what should one do with this "moral dilemma?" Sweep it under the rug? Let it divide us? Allow it to dictate the direction of the church's mission and ministry, rather than the teachings of Jesus? Folks, we've got bigger fish to fry. The world needs us to be the hands and feet of Christ; when we do anything less, we make a mockery of the Gospel, and in the words of Bonhoeffer, offer cheap grace.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Sanctification
The other night, I was helping my sons take baths. My oldest finished his bath, and my youngest son came in for his bath. Earlier in the day, he was stung by a bee, and after a visit to the pediatrician's office, was told to rest. I gave him his bath, and as he got out, he told me he didn't want to be seven anymore. He wanted to be eight. He didn't like that his older brother's birthday is coming up soon, and he would be turning nine. The conversation continued as we put lotion on his body, oiled his head, and cleaned his ears. He put on his pajamas, said it one more time to me ("I don't want to be seven anymore!"), and I thought the conversation was over.
I went to another bathroom to put away the items we'd used for his bath, and when I turned around, he was standing there, crying. We had to have a sit-down conversation in order for me to find the root of his tears. He wants to be eight years old because he wants to grow. We talked about how he has grown since his last birthday - shoes and pants that no longer fit (even though his birthday was just last month!), that his hair grows, that he is taller, and that he is gaining weight. Yes, you can stay the same age, and still grow.
Human beings have a fascination with growing up. My children have grown up too fast - they have seen too much, and experience too much for their young ages. The irony is that a Christian life moves much more slowly. In a Christian life, we stay "seven" a lot longer as we grow in grace. John Wesley called the process of growing in grace sanctification. We keep moving on toward perfection throughout our lives. At times, like when we are younger, the growth is fast (and faster than our birthday can arrive); at other times, we take one step forward and two steps backward.
Just as we don't need to rush our physical growth, we don't need to rush our spiritual growth. We must always remember that sanctification is a process. It doesn't happen because we said yes to Jesus five minutes, ten years, or a generation ago. It happens because we are intentional about growing in our faith. Just as we need proper nutrition, sleep, and body care to grow, we must also engage in spiritual practices in order for us to grow our spirits. John Wesley encouraged us to practice equally works of piety and mercy. We grow when we read our Bibles, worship, have accountability groups, pray, participate in the Sacraments, and more; but we grow as much when we heal the sick, visit prisons, feed the hungry, and clothe the naked.
Those spiritual practices take time. We can't get all the nutrition we need in one helping, or sleep one night to become physically mature. In the same vein, we can't practice works of piety and mercy in fits and starts, or we don't really grow. Growth takes time, intentionality, and consistency.
My son won't be eight years old anytime soon - not for another ten months; but he is growing constantly as he eats well, exercises, takes care of his body, and gets the rest he needs. What if we took that same care with our souls? What growth would we see in our lives?
I went to another bathroom to put away the items we'd used for his bath, and when I turned around, he was standing there, crying. We had to have a sit-down conversation in order for me to find the root of his tears. He wants to be eight years old because he wants to grow. We talked about how he has grown since his last birthday - shoes and pants that no longer fit (even though his birthday was just last month!), that his hair grows, that he is taller, and that he is gaining weight. Yes, you can stay the same age, and still grow.
Human beings have a fascination with growing up. My children have grown up too fast - they have seen too much, and experience too much for their young ages. The irony is that a Christian life moves much more slowly. In a Christian life, we stay "seven" a lot longer as we grow in grace. John Wesley called the process of growing in grace sanctification. We keep moving on toward perfection throughout our lives. At times, like when we are younger, the growth is fast (and faster than our birthday can arrive); at other times, we take one step forward and two steps backward.
Just as we don't need to rush our physical growth, we don't need to rush our spiritual growth. We must always remember that sanctification is a process. It doesn't happen because we said yes to Jesus five minutes, ten years, or a generation ago. It happens because we are intentional about growing in our faith. Just as we need proper nutrition, sleep, and body care to grow, we must also engage in spiritual practices in order for us to grow our spirits. John Wesley encouraged us to practice equally works of piety and mercy. We grow when we read our Bibles, worship, have accountability groups, pray, participate in the Sacraments, and more; but we grow as much when we heal the sick, visit prisons, feed the hungry, and clothe the naked.
Those spiritual practices take time. We can't get all the nutrition we need in one helping, or sleep one night to become physically mature. In the same vein, we can't practice works of piety and mercy in fits and starts, or we don't really grow. Growth takes time, intentionality, and consistency.
My son won't be eight years old anytime soon - not for another ten months; but he is growing constantly as he eats well, exercises, takes care of his body, and gets the rest he needs. What if we took that same care with our souls? What growth would we see in our lives?
Thursday, July 15, 2010
What Makes Good Music?
The year 2007 marked the 300th anniversary of Charles Wesley's birth. I was asked to give a presentation to a UMW circle, and upon the occasion, decided to bring together two of my passions - music and theology. I talked about the historical background of Charles Wesley, discussed his background as a writer of poems and hymns, looked at the number of hymn texts by him in the United Methodist Hymnal (there are 51 between that resource and The Faith We Sing), and I shared about him as an evangelist.
One of the interesting things that I remember about Charles Wesley was that they took the texts they wrote (poetry) and set them to music popular in their day. Bar tunes were not unusual settings for Wesley hymns. In fact, I'm certain that a few tunes in our hymnal originated at the local pub. The fact that the Wesleys did this made me want to teach a similar practice to this UMW Circle. So, we looked at a hymn from our hymnal written by Wesley. We looked at the text, and loved it, but we were unfamiliar with the tune. So, we looked at the meter of the poetry, turned to the back of the hymnal, and tried the text with other tunes which were more familiar, but also fit the text. Does text and tune fit together?
Finally, since this congregation happened to be one in which people were divided over traditional vs. contemporary music (and anyone who reads this blog regularly knows I think those terms are over-used, over-rated, and unhelpful), so I laid out my guidelines for what makes good music. Here they are, in case you were interested:
1) Does the text teach you something sound about your faith (i.e., is it good theology)?
2) Is the text easy to understand (do words get in the way, or do you have unfamiliar words in common language)?
3) Is the tune singable (can you catch the tune easily, does it have too many skips and jumps, etc.)?
4) Do the text and tune go together?
It's my belief (at least it was in 2007, and I think it still is) that if a hymn, praise chorus, or other form of worship music fits these criteria, it's good music, and should be used in any and every church. If worship music does not meet these basic criteria, stop using it!!!
Ultimately, though, it's good music if it glorifies God well and puts us in touch with the One who loves us. And with that definition, the sky's the limit!
One of the interesting things that I remember about Charles Wesley was that they took the texts they wrote (poetry) and set them to music popular in their day. Bar tunes were not unusual settings for Wesley hymns. In fact, I'm certain that a few tunes in our hymnal originated at the local pub. The fact that the Wesleys did this made me want to teach a similar practice to this UMW Circle. So, we looked at a hymn from our hymnal written by Wesley. We looked at the text, and loved it, but we were unfamiliar with the tune. So, we looked at the meter of the poetry, turned to the back of the hymnal, and tried the text with other tunes which were more familiar, but also fit the text. Does text and tune fit together?
Finally, since this congregation happened to be one in which people were divided over traditional vs. contemporary music (and anyone who reads this blog regularly knows I think those terms are over-used, over-rated, and unhelpful), so I laid out my guidelines for what makes good music. Here they are, in case you were interested:
1) Does the text teach you something sound about your faith (i.e., is it good theology)?
2) Is the text easy to understand (do words get in the way, or do you have unfamiliar words in common language)?
3) Is the tune singable (can you catch the tune easily, does it have too many skips and jumps, etc.)?
4) Do the text and tune go together?
It's my belief (at least it was in 2007, and I think it still is) that if a hymn, praise chorus, or other form of worship music fits these criteria, it's good music, and should be used in any and every church. If worship music does not meet these basic criteria, stop using it!!!
Ultimately, though, it's good music if it glorifies God well and puts us in touch with the One who loves us. And with that definition, the sky's the limit!
Sunday, July 04, 2010
Dependence Day
Today is July 4 - Independence Day in the United States. In my house, we've celebrated two independence days this year - in Ghana on March 6, and today in the U.S. We want our children to be proud of their heritage - where they come from, where they are, and where they will be. I think we need to have an appreciation and high regard for our heritage. It is the past that shapes who we are today; but it doesn't necessarily shape our future.
Today's lectionary Old Testament text was about the healing of Naaman. He was a mighty warrior, well-respected and held in high regard by others in government and the armed forces. He was successful, but he had leprosy. With sores and lesions all over, he was in need of healing. His wife's servant, a girl from Israel, knew about the healing power of Elisha the prophet. Naaman was encouraged to go and get the healing he needed. When he arrived, Elisha told him what to do - to wash in the Jordan River seven times. But Naaman, the proud warrior, thought he was too good to wash in the Jordan; he wanted to go to a cleaner river. His servants helped him swallow his pride, and he eventually went to the Joradan, washed seven times, and was healed.
Pride often gets in the way. On this independence day, I have been thinking that we should re-name it "Dependence Day," because of the pride we place on our country and our elitism. We place blind faith in our political leaders (Democrat, Republican, or other political party); we believe strongly in our military might; we spend trillions of dollars as though we will stop bleeding debt. As a nation, and as people, we want our independence, but the ways we assert our independence remind us that we are placing our nation, our ideologies, and our leaders above God. We need this day to remind us that we must be dependent - on the God who provides unconditional love, support, and blessings beyond measure. It doesn't come from "pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps," or from military power; it comes from God.
Happy Dependence Day! Remember who you are, and whose you are!
Today's lectionary Old Testament text was about the healing of Naaman. He was a mighty warrior, well-respected and held in high regard by others in government and the armed forces. He was successful, but he had leprosy. With sores and lesions all over, he was in need of healing. His wife's servant, a girl from Israel, knew about the healing power of Elisha the prophet. Naaman was encouraged to go and get the healing he needed. When he arrived, Elisha told him what to do - to wash in the Jordan River seven times. But Naaman, the proud warrior, thought he was too good to wash in the Jordan; he wanted to go to a cleaner river. His servants helped him swallow his pride, and he eventually went to the Joradan, washed seven times, and was healed.
Pride often gets in the way. On this independence day, I have been thinking that we should re-name it "Dependence Day," because of the pride we place on our country and our elitism. We place blind faith in our political leaders (Democrat, Republican, or other political party); we believe strongly in our military might; we spend trillions of dollars as though we will stop bleeding debt. As a nation, and as people, we want our independence, but the ways we assert our independence remind us that we are placing our nation, our ideologies, and our leaders above God. We need this day to remind us that we must be dependent - on the God who provides unconditional love, support, and blessings beyond measure. It doesn't come from "pulling ourselves up by our bootstraps," or from military power; it comes from God.
Happy Dependence Day! Remember who you are, and whose you are!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Traditional versus Contemporary
One of the great debates in worship today is traditional versus contemporary. I'm not one for the labels. Isn't worship worship, whether you use music written 400 years ago, or 10 days ago? I attended a lecture a few years ago by Marva Dawn, and she reminded us that those words (contemporary and traditional) have different meanings. For example, she said something to this effect: If you're doing it now, it's contemporary; as soon as you do something, it's traditional.
I'm thinking of the music we are singing tomorrow: two spirituals, and several pieces written in the last twenty years. The piece composed in 2008 is contemporary, because we are doing it now; it's also traditional because we have used it in worship all of this month. In the same way, the spiritual "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" has been a part of the tradition of the church for the better part of a century; yet, because we sing it tomorrow, it's music for today - contemporary.
The terms we use reflect our preferences. I can't tell you how many times we've sung "contemporary" music, only to have some say, "Why can't we sing songs we know?" I also love the statement regarding "contemporary" music: "it's easy, because you just keep repeating the same words over and over again." Isn't that what we do when we sing a "traditional" hymn that has several verses and a repeated refrain? I assert that the labels we use are not to describe worship, or music in worship, but our preferences for music.
Does any of it really matter? I've heard people say, "I won't go to the contemporary service, because I don't get anything out of it," or "I'm bored in traditional worship!" Guess what? Worship is NOT about you! It's about a living, breathing God who continues to be active in our lives and in the world. We do not come to worship ourselves; we come to worship God. And you know what? God doesn't care if it's traditional or contemporary. God doesn't care how many hymns you sing, creeds you say, dramas you do, or how many guitars and PowerPoints are used. God cares that we worship in spirit and in truth. If we remember that nugget from Scripture, we can meet God's preference, no matter what the style or content is.
I'm thinking of the music we are singing tomorrow: two spirituals, and several pieces written in the last twenty years. The piece composed in 2008 is contemporary, because we are doing it now; it's also traditional because we have used it in worship all of this month. In the same way, the spiritual "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" has been a part of the tradition of the church for the better part of a century; yet, because we sing it tomorrow, it's music for today - contemporary.
The terms we use reflect our preferences. I can't tell you how many times we've sung "contemporary" music, only to have some say, "Why can't we sing songs we know?" I also love the statement regarding "contemporary" music: "it's easy, because you just keep repeating the same words over and over again." Isn't that what we do when we sing a "traditional" hymn that has several verses and a repeated refrain? I assert that the labels we use are not to describe worship, or music in worship, but our preferences for music.
Does any of it really matter? I've heard people say, "I won't go to the contemporary service, because I don't get anything out of it," or "I'm bored in traditional worship!" Guess what? Worship is NOT about you! It's about a living, breathing God who continues to be active in our lives and in the world. We do not come to worship ourselves; we come to worship God. And you know what? God doesn't care if it's traditional or contemporary. God doesn't care how many hymns you sing, creeds you say, dramas you do, or how many guitars and PowerPoints are used. God cares that we worship in spirit and in truth. If we remember that nugget from Scripture, we can meet God's preference, no matter what the style or content is.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Reading the Sky
Today is the first day in, well, about a week when it hasn't been raining. The boys have been itching to ride their bikes. I have been diligent about checking www.weather.com to see what the local forecast will be (since having children, I have forgotten about the local television news stations). The weather forecast said that it would rain - 30-50% chance. However, we all know about the accuracy of weather forecasts.
The boys would watch out the windows with me, or we would go outside, and we would look at the sky. If it got cloudy, gray, or if the sky turned dark, we knew that it would rain...or as the boys say, "The rain has come to fall on the green grasses." I've always looked at the sky to know what the weather would be like...except in Ghana. In Ghana, you don't look at the sky to determine if it will rain. Instead, you gauge by the heat of the sun. As we rode with our coordinator, he would say, "the sun is hot," and we would know that the weather would be fine. If he said, "the sun is very hot," or "very, very hot," we knew we were in for a thunder-and-lightening, get-drenched rain. It didn't often happen at that moment - it was sometimes 2-3 hours later, but he was right.
In Matthew 16, Jesus is being tested by the Pharisees. They've asked him to show them a sign from heaven, and Jesus says this: "He answered them, "When it is evening, you say, "It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.' And in the morning, "It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. An evil and adulterous generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah." Then he left them and went away."
In the end, does it really matter how we determine what the weather will be? So what if I can tell by the sun's heat, or by the color of the sky? So what? In the end, we waste our time, and God's time, being concerned about trivial things.
And so it is with the church. We have our eyes to the sky, looking for signs and wonders that we can interpret, and we have forgotten that it's not about reading the signs. The church exists for one purpose, and one purpose only: to make disciples of Jesus Christ. We do not exist to be a social club, a support group, a center for study, or even as a center for music and art. If we are looking for a sign, we need to know that the plethora of activities the church engages in should be measured and evaluated on the basis of their effectiveness in making disciples. Otherwise, while those ministries may be helpful to us, they are helping us be counterproductive in bringing God's kingdom to earth.
You want a sign? Don't look to the sky! Instead, look for places where disciples are made. Search for evidence that the kingdom of God is breaking in. Nothing else matters.
The boys would watch out the windows with me, or we would go outside, and we would look at the sky. If it got cloudy, gray, or if the sky turned dark, we knew that it would rain...or as the boys say, "The rain has come to fall on the green grasses." I've always looked at the sky to know what the weather would be like...except in Ghana. In Ghana, you don't look at the sky to determine if it will rain. Instead, you gauge by the heat of the sun. As we rode with our coordinator, he would say, "the sun is hot," and we would know that the weather would be fine. If he said, "the sun is very hot," or "very, very hot," we knew we were in for a thunder-and-lightening, get-drenched rain. It didn't often happen at that moment - it was sometimes 2-3 hours later, but he was right.
In Matthew 16, Jesus is being tested by the Pharisees. They've asked him to show them a sign from heaven, and Jesus says this: "He answered them, "When it is evening, you say, "It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.' And in the morning, "It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.' You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. An evil and adulterous generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah." Then he left them and went away."
In the end, does it really matter how we determine what the weather will be? So what if I can tell by the sun's heat, or by the color of the sky? So what? In the end, we waste our time, and God's time, being concerned about trivial things.
And so it is with the church. We have our eyes to the sky, looking for signs and wonders that we can interpret, and we have forgotten that it's not about reading the signs. The church exists for one purpose, and one purpose only: to make disciples of Jesus Christ. We do not exist to be a social club, a support group, a center for study, or even as a center for music and art. If we are looking for a sign, we need to know that the plethora of activities the church engages in should be measured and evaluated on the basis of their effectiveness in making disciples. Otherwise, while those ministries may be helpful to us, they are helping us be counterproductive in bringing God's kingdom to earth.
You want a sign? Don't look to the sky! Instead, look for places where disciples are made. Search for evidence that the kingdom of God is breaking in. Nothing else matters.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
A Fresh Word
I think I've blogged about this before, but since I'm at a conference on preaching, and the subject has come up, I've been thinking about it again. What is the deal with people putting written or recorded sermons on websites? I can see some advantages to doing this, and I think I've mentioned the advantages and disadvantages of web-based ministry before.
This week, though, I've been thinking about Moses and the Israelites. They were wandering around in the desert for 40 years, and they were hungry. God gave them manna, with certain stipulations. Manna, literally "what is it?", brings to mind the image of instant potato flakes. The thing that intrigues me about manna is that it was only good for that day. Some of the Israelites tried to save it, to store it, because they were afraid that there wouldn't be enough...but the saved manna spoiled. In order for the manna to be beneficial, it had to be fresh.
Others may disagree with my thoughts about preaching, but I believe that God gives us a particular word for a particular time and place in a congregation's life. While people can listen in online days, weeks, months, or years later, or read a sermon in print, it is not the same. God's word comes for the people gathered together in the context of worshipping God. The word captured in print or in recording, even moments after the worship experience, is no longer fresh. While people can feast on it as they drive around with their iPods plugged in, or read it in the comfort of their bed before taking their nightly rest, the word is, if not spoiled, stale. It loses some of its power and meaning when it is revisited.
The same argument could be said for the cycle of preaching and pastoral ministry. I've heard pastors say that they keep files of manuscripts or outlines, and when they are appointed or called to another church, they simply go back to their files, and pull out the text or outline again. How is that word fresh for those people gathered for worship? If it's truly fresh manna, it must be organic. The word can not be processed, chewed up, and spit out with a new anecdote, story, or poem, and have it be fresh.
A fresh word requires at least two ingredients on the part of the preacher. 1 - the preacher needs to be constantly in touch with God. Gathering fresh manna requires that the sermon be surrounded, on all sides, by prayer. 2 - the preacher needs to be in touch with the body of Christ. What are the needs of the faith community, and what are the needs of the community at large?
In other words, the fresh manna of preaching only comes in the shape of a cross. The preacher gathers from the vertical (God) and the horizontal (neighbors), but the gathering must take place for that day. Unless we do so, we will not have fresh manna on which to feed.
This week, though, I've been thinking about Moses and the Israelites. They were wandering around in the desert for 40 years, and they were hungry. God gave them manna, with certain stipulations. Manna, literally "what is it?", brings to mind the image of instant potato flakes. The thing that intrigues me about manna is that it was only good for that day. Some of the Israelites tried to save it, to store it, because they were afraid that there wouldn't be enough...but the saved manna spoiled. In order for the manna to be beneficial, it had to be fresh.
Others may disagree with my thoughts about preaching, but I believe that God gives us a particular word for a particular time and place in a congregation's life. While people can listen in online days, weeks, months, or years later, or read a sermon in print, it is not the same. God's word comes for the people gathered together in the context of worshipping God. The word captured in print or in recording, even moments after the worship experience, is no longer fresh. While people can feast on it as they drive around with their iPods plugged in, or read it in the comfort of their bed before taking their nightly rest, the word is, if not spoiled, stale. It loses some of its power and meaning when it is revisited.
The same argument could be said for the cycle of preaching and pastoral ministry. I've heard pastors say that they keep files of manuscripts or outlines, and when they are appointed or called to another church, they simply go back to their files, and pull out the text or outline again. How is that word fresh for those people gathered for worship? If it's truly fresh manna, it must be organic. The word can not be processed, chewed up, and spit out with a new anecdote, story, or poem, and have it be fresh.
A fresh word requires at least two ingredients on the part of the preacher. 1 - the preacher needs to be constantly in touch with God. Gathering fresh manna requires that the sermon be surrounded, on all sides, by prayer. 2 - the preacher needs to be in touch with the body of Christ. What are the needs of the faith community, and what are the needs of the community at large?
In other words, the fresh manna of preaching only comes in the shape of a cross. The preacher gathers from the vertical (God) and the horizontal (neighbors), but the gathering must take place for that day. Unless we do so, we will not have fresh manna on which to feed.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Bridging the Gap
I have not ever read books by Lauren Winner before. She teaches at Duke Divinity School, although she was not on the faculty when I was there as a student. However, I was captivated by the titles of two of her books "Mudhouse Sabbath" and "Girl Meets God," so I picked them up at the Cokesbury bookstore in seminary. That was before 2004 - they have been sitting on my bookshelves ever since! Every once in a while, I glance over at my bookshelves and think that I need to read them - and that I want to read them.
As I was getting prepared to go to Ghana, I considered what reading material I should bring. Normally, I bring much more than I can possibly read - but this time, I chose four books, all spiritual biographies/autobiographies. Before we left, I had already read Dorothy Day's The Long Loneliness, and started Renita Weem's autobiography, which I finished on the third leg of our flight to Accra. That left me with Lauren Winner's books. I've found them to be a most fascinating and captivating read, because they echo a sentiment that I've felt for some time - that spiritual practice is essential to a healthy faith. Even more so, it reminds me that religious faiths are complimentary. I'm not Jewish, but some of my basic Christian practices come from Jewish tradition.
We are people who tend to compartmentalize everything...but our traditions inform and reform one another. I can't practice my Christian faith without knowing that I do so in a tradition shaped by Judaism...and so on. So I am grateful that our God is big enough to bridge the gap among faith traditions. My own is richer because of it!
As I was getting prepared to go to Ghana, I considered what reading material I should bring. Normally, I bring much more than I can possibly read - but this time, I chose four books, all spiritual biographies/autobiographies. Before we left, I had already read Dorothy Day's The Long Loneliness, and started Renita Weem's autobiography, which I finished on the third leg of our flight to Accra. That left me with Lauren Winner's books. I've found them to be a most fascinating and captivating read, because they echo a sentiment that I've felt for some time - that spiritual practice is essential to a healthy faith. Even more so, it reminds me that religious faiths are complimentary. I'm not Jewish, but some of my basic Christian practices come from Jewish tradition.
We are people who tend to compartmentalize everything...but our traditions inform and reform one another. I can't practice my Christian faith without knowing that I do so in a tradition shaped by Judaism...and so on. So I am grateful that our God is big enough to bridge the gap among faith traditions. My own is richer because of it!
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Waste-not, want-not
Tonight, we were sitting at dinner with the kids. It is day #18 in Ghana, and both boys ordered banku with pepper fish (fried tilapia). It's not the first time that they have ordered it since we've been here - in fact, they've ordered it several times.
I find myself eating quickly, just so I can watch the children eat. In the US, we have a mentality that we don't have enough, and that we are always needing more...we operate under a philosophy of scarcity, but the truth is, we have an overabundance. I watch my children who, three weeks ago, would eat porridge and palm soup to satisfy their needs. Today, they ate banku and an entire fish...and by entire, I mean entire. They literally suck the flesh off each bone. They will, often, eat the head and the eyeballs. Here, nothing goes to waste. I was grateful today because, having been here for weeks, my stomach is getting smaller, and I literally couldn't eat all of my food - so the boys at the rest of my plantains.
There is no point is wasting or complaining when we have so much abundance. I wonder sometimes what life would be like if we shared our abundance...if we took what we had, asked God to bless it, and gave it to those around us. Jesus did that with five loaves of bread and two fish, and 5,000 were fed. In the early church, resources were pooled so that everyone had what they needed. What if we did that? What if we only used what we needed, rather than being so extravagant that we "want" pineapple, so we buy one, eat one chunk, and the rest spoils?
When we leave Ghana, there will be three children who no longer have to eat porridge and palm soup for each meal. We are blessed that we can share out of the abundance God gives us - and I truly believe that God will bless us because we are not wasting our resources, but making sure that basic needs for ourselves and others are met. In fact, we are blessed already!
I find myself eating quickly, just so I can watch the children eat. In the US, we have a mentality that we don't have enough, and that we are always needing more...we operate under a philosophy of scarcity, but the truth is, we have an overabundance. I watch my children who, three weeks ago, would eat porridge and palm soup to satisfy their needs. Today, they ate banku and an entire fish...and by entire, I mean entire. They literally suck the flesh off each bone. They will, often, eat the head and the eyeballs. Here, nothing goes to waste. I was grateful today because, having been here for weeks, my stomach is getting smaller, and I literally couldn't eat all of my food - so the boys at the rest of my plantains.
There is no point is wasting or complaining when we have so much abundance. I wonder sometimes what life would be like if we shared our abundance...if we took what we had, asked God to bless it, and gave it to those around us. Jesus did that with five loaves of bread and two fish, and 5,000 were fed. In the early church, resources were pooled so that everyone had what they needed. What if we did that? What if we only used what we needed, rather than being so extravagant that we "want" pineapple, so we buy one, eat one chunk, and the rest spoils?
When we leave Ghana, there will be three children who no longer have to eat porridge and palm soup for each meal. We are blessed that we can share out of the abundance God gives us - and I truly believe that God will bless us because we are not wasting our resources, but making sure that basic needs for ourselves and others are met. In fact, we are blessed already!
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Will the Past Become the Future?
I've been lax the past 2+ weeks in writing...Africa and the children has taken up most of my time, and I promised myself that I would blog once each week this year.
Last Sunday, we had planned to go to worship in Cape Coast with Percy, our coordinator. However, Sarah had gotten sick on Saturday, and we needed to reschedule some things that we had wanted to do that day. We drove to the Canopy Walk (suspension bridge over the rain forest) and to Elmina Castle (the first slave port in Ghana). Along the way, we saw many people dressed and walking to church. I had noticed that a number of the roadside stands were closed, but didn't ask Percy any questions.
When we were traveling between the Canopy Walk and the castle, I asked Percy about the stores. He said that almost all of them close on Sunday, because everyone goes to church. There are churches of all sizes, shapes, and colors, and people dress in their best. The stores were just opening up (it was between 2:00 and 3:00 pm), but for the morning, business suspends itself for a higher purpose.
Over the years, I've heard a number of people say that they long for the days 20-50 years ago, when everything closed down on Sundays...Sunday was the Lord's day. Having observed what that's like, though, I wonder if we're willing to have things return to the way they were. If reclaiming Sunday for God or the church (as some evangelicals say) means that businesses close, but that we also have to give up our cars, televisions, and other things, would we do it? Are we willing to give it all up, or do we just want the parts that are convenient for us?
Perhaps the real question is: if I want to reclaim Sunday for God, the church, and Sabbath, am I willing to let those things reclaim me? The answer to that past will shape our future.
Last Sunday, we had planned to go to worship in Cape Coast with Percy, our coordinator. However, Sarah had gotten sick on Saturday, and we needed to reschedule some things that we had wanted to do that day. We drove to the Canopy Walk (suspension bridge over the rain forest) and to Elmina Castle (the first slave port in Ghana). Along the way, we saw many people dressed and walking to church. I had noticed that a number of the roadside stands were closed, but didn't ask Percy any questions.
When we were traveling between the Canopy Walk and the castle, I asked Percy about the stores. He said that almost all of them close on Sunday, because everyone goes to church. There are churches of all sizes, shapes, and colors, and people dress in their best. The stores were just opening up (it was between 2:00 and 3:00 pm), but for the morning, business suspends itself for a higher purpose.
Over the years, I've heard a number of people say that they long for the days 20-50 years ago, when everything closed down on Sundays...Sunday was the Lord's day. Having observed what that's like, though, I wonder if we're willing to have things return to the way they were. If reclaiming Sunday for God or the church (as some evangelicals say) means that businesses close, but that we also have to give up our cars, televisions, and other things, would we do it? Are we willing to give it all up, or do we just want the parts that are convenient for us?
Perhaps the real question is: if I want to reclaim Sunday for God, the church, and Sabbath, am I willing to let those things reclaim me? The answer to that past will shape our future.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Reality Check
News reports said that the Superbowl advertisement about Tim Tebow had pro-life and pro-choice advocates up in arms. Pro-life advocates defend the advertisement by saying that it showed that Tebow's mother had a choice, and she chose life (also implying that she made the correct choice). Pro-choice advocates seem to be upset because it appears that there is only one choice available. It's another fine example of how polarized we become on major (and minor) issues.
I wonder if it's really about pro-life or pro-choice. To me, the issue of abortion is much more complex than having one viewpoint or the other. As a Christian, I believe in the importance of human life, as each is created in God's image...but if I'm going to advocate for a pro-life stance, shouldn't I also advocate for adoption reform if a mother makes an adoption plan, but it takes years for the child to be adopted? If I advocate for a pro-life stance, shouldn't I also advocate for health care and health insurance reform to aid the single mother who has helped bring the life I value into the world? If I advocate for a pro-choice stance, I show my understanding that humans have been given the gift of free will by God. If I advocate for a pro-choice stance, then do I also advocate for people to live with the blessings and hardships of their decisions?
Sometimes I think human beings need a reality check. We want things to be simple - black and white - and thus polarized, because it makes everything neat, tidy, and and brings order out of chaos. The issues that we make issues, though, are anything but neat and tidy. They are complex, multi-layered, and intertwined. As Christians, we can't look at one issue without looking at others. We can't have a discussion about homosexuality unless we also talk about the authority of the canon of Scripture in our lives. We can't talk about health care unless we talk about love of God and our neighbor.
We try really hard to make things fit our mold...and it means we end up with round holes and square pegs, which really doesn't work at all. Maybe instead of trying to whittle everything down to clear cut and defined positions, we should remember that our God is full of mystery and complexity. We can't know it all, and put it all into our neat black and white categories. The reality is that our understanding of God is in a shade of gray, and that also makes our understanding of issues that face humanity shades of gray.
Maybe our reality is mystery - blurry, impressionistic, and blended...but that's probably a picture of God and God's people. Maybe we should learn to live within mystery, and live in the image of God, rather than forming God and God's people in our own image.
I wonder if it's really about pro-life or pro-choice. To me, the issue of abortion is much more complex than having one viewpoint or the other. As a Christian, I believe in the importance of human life, as each is created in God's image...but if I'm going to advocate for a pro-life stance, shouldn't I also advocate for adoption reform if a mother makes an adoption plan, but it takes years for the child to be adopted? If I advocate for a pro-life stance, shouldn't I also advocate for health care and health insurance reform to aid the single mother who has helped bring the life I value into the world? If I advocate for a pro-choice stance, I show my understanding that humans have been given the gift of free will by God. If I advocate for a pro-choice stance, then do I also advocate for people to live with the blessings and hardships of their decisions?
Sometimes I think human beings need a reality check. We want things to be simple - black and white - and thus polarized, because it makes everything neat, tidy, and and brings order out of chaos. The issues that we make issues, though, are anything but neat and tidy. They are complex, multi-layered, and intertwined. As Christians, we can't look at one issue without looking at others. We can't have a discussion about homosexuality unless we also talk about the authority of the canon of Scripture in our lives. We can't talk about health care unless we talk about love of God and our neighbor.
We try really hard to make things fit our mold...and it means we end up with round holes and square pegs, which really doesn't work at all. Maybe instead of trying to whittle everything down to clear cut and defined positions, we should remember that our God is full of mystery and complexity. We can't know it all, and put it all into our neat black and white categories. The reality is that our understanding of God is in a shade of gray, and that also makes our understanding of issues that face humanity shades of gray.
Maybe our reality is mystery - blurry, impressionistic, and blended...but that's probably a picture of God and God's people. Maybe we should learn to live within mystery, and live in the image of God, rather than forming God and God's people in our own image.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Litmus Test
The day has finally arrived! Our adoption has taken longer than a full-term pregnancy, but Wednesday we got the e-mail saying that we were cleared to travel. We've set our travel time for three and a half weeks, but completing the adoption could take more time or less time. We're having to be flexible - and I've asked my congregation to the same.
The litmus test for any pastor is to be removed from a congregation and see if ministry thrives. There's only been so much that I could do to get ready for traveling. The preachers are lined up, the substitutes to teach and lead rehearsals are ready to go, and there are still a thousand things that I need to do in the next week - but I won't do everything. I've simply asked people to take responsibility to make things happen.
If you had asked me six to eight months ago if the congregation could handle me being gone for a month, I might have struggled with my answer. But in the past six months, we've seen tremendous spiritual growth, some numeric growth, and passion, zeal and determination. This congregation is remarkably resilient, and I truly believe the can make it happen. Not only do I think they can thrive without me, but I think they will be even stronger because of my absence.
Not every church could be like that - but not every church has people who have the passion and desire to "make it happen." You know, every time Paul planted a church, he didn't stay long; what he did do was train others to "make it happen." The church wouldn't simply sit there and stagnate - people stepped in and led the people so that they thrived and actively continued their mission. So, if you're a Timothy, make it happen!
I don't think that there's a need for a litmus test, though. The church isn't about me, and doesn't revolve around me. It centers on God; if it does that, and stays clear about its mission, then the church will simply be guided by the Holy Spirit to be fruitful. And that hope frees me to leave - and to return!
The litmus test for any pastor is to be removed from a congregation and see if ministry thrives. There's only been so much that I could do to get ready for traveling. The preachers are lined up, the substitutes to teach and lead rehearsals are ready to go, and there are still a thousand things that I need to do in the next week - but I won't do everything. I've simply asked people to take responsibility to make things happen.
If you had asked me six to eight months ago if the congregation could handle me being gone for a month, I might have struggled with my answer. But in the past six months, we've seen tremendous spiritual growth, some numeric growth, and passion, zeal and determination. This congregation is remarkably resilient, and I truly believe the can make it happen. Not only do I think they can thrive without me, but I think they will be even stronger because of my absence.
Not every church could be like that - but not every church has people who have the passion and desire to "make it happen." You know, every time Paul planted a church, he didn't stay long; what he did do was train others to "make it happen." The church wouldn't simply sit there and stagnate - people stepped in and led the people so that they thrived and actively continued their mission. So, if you're a Timothy, make it happen!
I don't think that there's a need for a litmus test, though. The church isn't about me, and doesn't revolve around me. It centers on God; if it does that, and stays clear about its mission, then the church will simply be guided by the Holy Spirit to be fruitful. And that hope frees me to leave - and to return!
Saturday, January 30, 2010
The Numbers Game
I am glad that it's January 30...and for several months, I am done playing the numbers game. Every year, we have to compile numbers for charge conference, and every year, we have to compile numbers for year-end reports. Earlier this week, the year-end reports were sent off. The numbers tell us that we added eleven members and lost two, for a net gain of nine. Sounds great, but I'm less interested in members, and more interested in professions of faith (we had three this year, by the way). At the end of the year, we have 76 members, and an average attendance in worship of 63. Pretty good percentage, but I'll be more excited when our average attendance exceeds our membership.
I'm a numbers guy - there's no denying that. I love statistics, and financial figures, and all of that, but what do numbers really tell us? Membership is important, but if you aren't an active member, then membership is largely symbolic. You could be a faithful worship attender (3-4 times per month) and never show signs of spiritual growth. Numbers matter a lot in the world of business, but it doesn't necessarily translate into the world of the church. How do you measure spiritual growth - especially when numerical growth doesn't translate?
I recently had a conversation with a colleague who serves a large church. We were talking about what had happened in the last year, and where we saw signs of hope. I said that we had grown a little bit numerically, but I was most excited about seeing people growing in their faith. This person responded by saying something like "I wish we had that at our church. We have lots of numeric growth, but that's about it."
The reality is that measurement for the church is hard. I'll maintain that numbers are important (professions of faith, average worship attendance, etc.), because they give some sign as to the health of a congregation. Perhaps more important, though, are the things that can't be measured, but are evidenced by a spiritual life - growth in patience, kindness, self-control, and other fruits of the Spirit. You can't put a number down on a form for it, but you can see it by the way a person lives.
I don't like playing the numbers game. I do the statistics and turn them in, but they don't give a full picture of the church. If you want to see where a church is, physically and spiritually, you have to look at the people and their lives. They are more than numbers; they are God's children, and so they count for more than just another statistic on the page. Names and faces, growth in grace and spiritual discipline - these are the things that really matter.
I'm a numbers guy - there's no denying that. I love statistics, and financial figures, and all of that, but what do numbers really tell us? Membership is important, but if you aren't an active member, then membership is largely symbolic. You could be a faithful worship attender (3-4 times per month) and never show signs of spiritual growth. Numbers matter a lot in the world of business, but it doesn't necessarily translate into the world of the church. How do you measure spiritual growth - especially when numerical growth doesn't translate?
I recently had a conversation with a colleague who serves a large church. We were talking about what had happened in the last year, and where we saw signs of hope. I said that we had grown a little bit numerically, but I was most excited about seeing people growing in their faith. This person responded by saying something like "I wish we had that at our church. We have lots of numeric growth, but that's about it."
The reality is that measurement for the church is hard. I'll maintain that numbers are important (professions of faith, average worship attendance, etc.), because they give some sign as to the health of a congregation. Perhaps more important, though, are the things that can't be measured, but are evidenced by a spiritual life - growth in patience, kindness, self-control, and other fruits of the Spirit. You can't put a number down on a form for it, but you can see it by the way a person lives.
I don't like playing the numbers game. I do the statistics and turn them in, but they don't give a full picture of the church. If you want to see where a church is, physically and spiritually, you have to look at the people and their lives. They are more than numbers; they are God's children, and so they count for more than just another statistic on the page. Names and faces, growth in grace and spiritual discipline - these are the things that really matter.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Harvest and Labor
I was reminded this week of what Jesus said about the harvest - that it is plentiful, but the workers are few. How true that is! Over the past 10 days, the world has focused on the two earthquakes that turned Haiti upside down. Millions of dollars have been raised through various organizations. Food and supplies are beginning to pour in. One night, on Larry King Live, celebrities worked to raise several million dollars on a two-hour special. The outpouring of people all over the world is astounding, and refreshing.
The same was true for Hurricane Katrina. In compassion and mercy, people came together and helped the people of Louisiana and Mississippi rebuild. A colleague of mine reminded me this week, though, that there are still many people displaced in those areas; some communities remain untouched since 2005. I can attest to that fact: when I was in New Orleans on our mission trip last summer, there were neighborhoods where no work had been done - in four years! Now, where were are of the celebrities, bringing the need of people to light? Where were all of the fundraisers to rebuild? Where are they now, in 2010, when the need is ongoing.
It's been said that the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is the first to arrive and the last to leave after a natural disaster. In my experience, that is a true statement. The UMCOR team in Slidell, Louisiana, ended up taking over much of the recovery operations after Katrina, and still provide the vast majority of leadership and organization. First on the scene, last to leave. Just this week, UMCOR sent out a truckload of health and layette kits from the Midwest Mission Distribution Center in Chatham, Illinois to be delivered to Haiti.
Where will we be in five years? Haiti will not be rebuilt by then. Even basic needs may not be met in five years. The celebrities will be gone; news reports may bury an occasional story on a back page; people may sporadically send $5 or $10 here or there. Will the church still be there? I hope so.
You see, just as in these natural disasters, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. The church is the same way. How many times have you heard someone say, "Well, I taught Sunday School 10 years when my children were little...it's someone else's turn." For a Christian, it's never someone else's turn. If not you, then who? Even the church becomes a withholder of grace, because "someone else" should teach Sunday school, serve in leadership, go on mission trips, invite people to worship, or sing in the choir. And, while each person may not have a particular gift, you still have gifts - and you are called to use your gifts for the harvest.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon each of us, to proclaim good news to people, recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those that are oppressed, to announce that the reign of God is breaking in. It doesn't have to be done verbally (although sometimes it does!), but love in action is labor for the harvest.
I've often said that we can't withhold God's grace, or give God only part of ourselves. You may want to stop teaching Sunday school after 5 years, but what if God only gave you grace for 5 years? The gift of grace is free, but it requires a response - your labor, for God's harvest.
The same was true for Hurricane Katrina. In compassion and mercy, people came together and helped the people of Louisiana and Mississippi rebuild. A colleague of mine reminded me this week, though, that there are still many people displaced in those areas; some communities remain untouched since 2005. I can attest to that fact: when I was in New Orleans on our mission trip last summer, there were neighborhoods where no work had been done - in four years! Now, where were are of the celebrities, bringing the need of people to light? Where were all of the fundraisers to rebuild? Where are they now, in 2010, when the need is ongoing.
It's been said that the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) is the first to arrive and the last to leave after a natural disaster. In my experience, that is a true statement. The UMCOR team in Slidell, Louisiana, ended up taking over much of the recovery operations after Katrina, and still provide the vast majority of leadership and organization. First on the scene, last to leave. Just this week, UMCOR sent out a truckload of health and layette kits from the Midwest Mission Distribution Center in Chatham, Illinois to be delivered to Haiti.
Where will we be in five years? Haiti will not be rebuilt by then. Even basic needs may not be met in five years. The celebrities will be gone; news reports may bury an occasional story on a back page; people may sporadically send $5 or $10 here or there. Will the church still be there? I hope so.
You see, just as in these natural disasters, the harvest is plentiful, but the laborers are few. The church is the same way. How many times have you heard someone say, "Well, I taught Sunday School 10 years when my children were little...it's someone else's turn." For a Christian, it's never someone else's turn. If not you, then who? Even the church becomes a withholder of grace, because "someone else" should teach Sunday school, serve in leadership, go on mission trips, invite people to worship, or sing in the choir. And, while each person may not have a particular gift, you still have gifts - and you are called to use your gifts for the harvest.
The Spirit of the Lord is upon each of us, to proclaim good news to people, recovery of sight to the blind, to set at liberty those that are oppressed, to announce that the reign of God is breaking in. It doesn't have to be done verbally (although sometimes it does!), but love in action is labor for the harvest.
I've often said that we can't withhold God's grace, or give God only part of ourselves. You may want to stop teaching Sunday school after 5 years, but what if God only gave you grace for 5 years? The gift of grace is free, but it requires a response - your labor, for God's harvest.
Friday, January 15, 2010
What Do I Really Need?
Anywhere you watch, hear, or read, you know about the destructive earthquake in Haiti this week. We have not had a natural disaster so close to home since the hurricanes that hit New Orleans and southern Texas. The destruction, pain, and confusion becomes real to us in interviews, pictures, and unedited news reports.
Haiti is one of the poorest countries in our hemisphere. I see pictures of the devastation, and think that, even if the buildings were put back together and people were healed and whole, I would still have so much more materially. I worry about paying a bill for heat or air conditioning - luxuries that are not even on the radar screen for many in Haiti. We have a home phone, two cell phones, four computers, and technology at our fingertips, yet we complain when it doesn't work well, or isn't available to us. Wow - how fortunate we are to have so much - or how cursed.
The more we have, the more we want. Our consumerist society has us keep up with the Jones family across the street. In some ways, though, it is counter-intuitive. Having the latest technology, a large house, 2-3 cars, and other things doesn't buy us happiness, because we are never satisfied with what we have. We WANT more, but don't NEED more. I think of pre-earthquake Haiti, and even though they were extremely poor, they were striving to have basic needs met - food, shelter, clothing, clean water - all of those things we take for granted and overlook.
As a Christian (and as a human being), I have to work against such inequality. It's too bad that it takes a major natural disaster for us to move beyond gaining our wants, to meeting the basic needs of others. But that's what Christian community is like. In Acts 2, we are reminded that the church gathered the offerings and distributed to those in need. That concept may have a Socialist tendency, but it's at times like these that those with more have the ability and responsibility to tend to the needs of those with less.
As Sarah and I prepare to go to Ghana to meet our children and complete our family, we will be flying into a similar situation. We are those who have more...and in Ghanian culture, it is customary for those with more to share with those who have less. When we pay for goods and services, the change will remain with the seller/servant. It is a means to share God's blessing with the world. And, while I might like to have that change to pay for something else, I really do have all that I need each day - food, shelter, clothing, health, job, family, and a wonderful God who blesses me beyond measure. I don't NEED anything else!
Haiti is one of the poorest countries in our hemisphere. I see pictures of the devastation, and think that, even if the buildings were put back together and people were healed and whole, I would still have so much more materially. I worry about paying a bill for heat or air conditioning - luxuries that are not even on the radar screen for many in Haiti. We have a home phone, two cell phones, four computers, and technology at our fingertips, yet we complain when it doesn't work well, or isn't available to us. Wow - how fortunate we are to have so much - or how cursed.
The more we have, the more we want. Our consumerist society has us keep up with the Jones family across the street. In some ways, though, it is counter-intuitive. Having the latest technology, a large house, 2-3 cars, and other things doesn't buy us happiness, because we are never satisfied with what we have. We WANT more, but don't NEED more. I think of pre-earthquake Haiti, and even though they were extremely poor, they were striving to have basic needs met - food, shelter, clothing, clean water - all of those things we take for granted and overlook.
As a Christian (and as a human being), I have to work against such inequality. It's too bad that it takes a major natural disaster for us to move beyond gaining our wants, to meeting the basic needs of others. But that's what Christian community is like. In Acts 2, we are reminded that the church gathered the offerings and distributed to those in need. That concept may have a Socialist tendency, but it's at times like these that those with more have the ability and responsibility to tend to the needs of those with less.
As Sarah and I prepare to go to Ghana to meet our children and complete our family, we will be flying into a similar situation. We are those who have more...and in Ghanian culture, it is customary for those with more to share with those who have less. When we pay for goods and services, the change will remain with the seller/servant. It is a means to share God's blessing with the world. And, while I might like to have that change to pay for something else, I really do have all that I need each day - food, shelter, clothing, health, job, family, and a wonderful God who blesses me beyond measure. I don't NEED anything else!
Friday, January 08, 2010
Alone?
I'm sure this comes as a shock to people who know me, but I'm an extreme introvert! I like being by myself...or at home with my wife and dogs. It's okay with me if the administrative assistant is gone, because I tend to be more productive when I am alone.
I have a tendency to have some lone-ranger characteristics...but I try hard not to fall prey to them. Why? Even though I like to be on my own, I cannot be. Jesus calls us to be in community with other brothers and sisters of the faith. Even if I can be highly productive on my own, I miss something when I don't have the perspective of others. Just today, one of my colleagues posted something on Facebook, along with a comment from another colleague. I followed the links, and found that my perspective was broadened, whether or not I agreed with them.
I am reminded that John Wesley said, near the end of his life, "The best of all is, God is with us." We are not alone - even if we serve churches where we are the only staff person. We are not alone - even if we're the only church in town. We are not alone - we are connected through the body of Christ. We are connected by God's presence in our lives. We are connected by the power of the Holy Spirit. God, in three persons, is always with us; but we are called to be with people - to make disciples of Jesus Christ...and so we can never be alone. Thanks be to God!
I have a tendency to have some lone-ranger characteristics...but I try hard not to fall prey to them. Why? Even though I like to be on my own, I cannot be. Jesus calls us to be in community with other brothers and sisters of the faith. Even if I can be highly productive on my own, I miss something when I don't have the perspective of others. Just today, one of my colleagues posted something on Facebook, along with a comment from another colleague. I followed the links, and found that my perspective was broadened, whether or not I agreed with them.
I am reminded that John Wesley said, near the end of his life, "The best of all is, God is with us." We are not alone - even if we serve churches where we are the only staff person. We are not alone - even if we're the only church in town. We are not alone - we are connected through the body of Christ. We are connected by God's presence in our lives. We are connected by the power of the Holy Spirit. God, in three persons, is always with us; but we are called to be with people - to make disciples of Jesus Christ...and so we can never be alone. Thanks be to God!
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