The Gift of Assumptive Saints

REFLECTIONS
December 19, 2010

Story has it that author, Lesbia Scott in the interest of teaching her children biblical theology, made up songs for them to sing. A friend upon hearing these songs, encouraged her to publish them. In the 1988 version of The United Methodist Hymnal, “I Sing a Song of the Saints of God,” can be found on page 712. The first stanza sings, “I sing a song of the saints of God, patient and brave and true, who toiled and fought and lived and died for the Lord they loved and knew. And one was a doctor, and one was a queen, and one was a shepherdess on the green; they were all of them saints of God, and I mean, God helping, to be one too.” I do not know for certain she borrowed from Pauline theology, however, the Apostle wrote in Romans 1:7, “To all God’s beloved in Rome, who are called to be saints:” In each of these cases the phrasing is assumptive. Those saints we have known in either implicit or explicit terms are named. Then the call is put forth of the possibility in each of us according to the will of God, to move into the positions of those whom we love who are now present with the Lord.

One theologian refers to these folks as “balcony people.” Those who have impacted our lives and remain with us observant from the upstairs room of our existence. Note that the word attic was not used. For an attic is a place where you put things that you probably will never use again, yet can’t bring yourself to throw out. Whereas the best seats are often in the balcony. Often reserved for people of bearing and import.

Mrs. Scott and our Brother Paul knew this. They used loving language to express their appreciation for those souls who had nurtured and nudged them. They are not merely a message in Jesus, but a model. They experienced a call into something beyond individual ability. They wrote and sang of the power of grace to transform ordinary individuals into extraordinary artifacts in the name of God. If we take the words seriously, we may have to come to terms with this fact. In the name of the love of Jesus, we are all saints in waiting.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald

First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Christmas In A Tree

REFLECTIONS
December 12, 2010

After my father died, a friend gave me a small framed needlepoint which reads: “After Loss Love Remains. ”The quote was said to be original from a sermon I gave reflecting
on Pop. To be truthful, I don’t recall saying it, then or now. However, the saying is true for me. My Father is gone twenty five years, my Mother twenty and yet I feel their love still.

Furthermore, my love and appreciation for them continued rather than merely being aggrandized. I hear them in some of the phrases (I swore to never use), and still use regularly. I see them in the features of myself and those of my siblings. I remember conversations as I look at belongings that were once theirs and are now mine. Gifts of a sort, a loving presence still.

Though I miss my parents usually at those times wisdom and experience would be helpful, I do not miss the suffering I watched them go through. Even as I matured enough to attempt to tell them, I am not certain they knew fully the gifts they gave in model and personality. In a season of gifts it seems some gifts fit better in the heart than under a tree.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Criticism Does Not Burn Calories

REFLECTIONS
December 5, 2010

It has been said, we as individuals may be the only Bible some people will read. If this is true, what story will we tell?

What insight to the experience of faith do we provide in the way we live? We have heard of the forgiveness of God, but we judge quickly, ourselves and others. We have heard of the unconditional love of God, yet we fail to love ourselves and others, continuing to love with strings attached and conditions included. We have heard of the acceptance of God; however, we are slow to accept change and adjust expectations for ourselves, and others.

John the Baptist knew the message he wanted read from his life. He wanted the world to know the need it had of God, so he preached of repentance. To repent means to turn around. To those headed down the wrong road of life, John suggested a U turn. Not just any U turn, but one which leads directly back to God. To the judgment and forgiveness of God. This was the power of the baptism John offered. For in this act, John believed one died to his or her past and was born anew through the life giving symbol of the water. Furthermore, John was very clear on two additional points. First, that the agent at work was God, not himself. Secondly, and more significantly, greater works and grander love was yet to come. It still makes for good reading.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Endurance is an Act of Faith, Not a Deodorant

REFLECTIONS
November 14, 2010

Community is born of the belief that we are not alone in our endeavors. While we may have divergent beliefs, goals, and backgrounds, none of us except religious ascetics or hermits lives in true isolation. From family, to work, school, sport or social clubs and formal religious expression, each brings an element of what community is or can be.

So what is the how, when, and why of community? The how of community begins with the intentional act of looking outside ourselves. Self-care experts tell us the art of selfishness is essential in terms of emotional wholeness and balanced living. Self-centeredness is another matter altogether. Writing on the pitfalls of self-absorption, the poet Longfellow said, "Whenever nature leaves a hole in a person's intellect, she generally plasters it over with a thick coat of self-centeredness." In a similar vein, yet more pointedly, the English cleric, Hare, wrote, “Many people spend their lives gazing at their own shadows, and so dwindle away into shadows thereof.” The modern parlance would be something like, navel gazing gets us nothing but bellybutton fuzz, for which no useful purpose has been found.

We live in a time of individuality and self-reliance so why should we be concerned about community? The spirit of individuals and the soul of society hinges on the notion that we matter both as individuals and as members of a community. When our lives are only about ourselves as individuals, the narrowness of focus can stifle both individual and community. Though all the world’s great religions teach the sacred value of individuals, each teaching, be it Buddhist, Christian, Hinduism, Islamic, Judaic, or Sikh places the higher value on the Holy art of moving beyond one’s self. Stressing the importance of creating kinship, of reaching out in the name of help and hope in concert with and toward others.

The second chapter of James is a call to not just community but a friendship covenant rooted in sacred loving care. If we are to take community seriously, the fundamental operating principle by which we live will then be a conspiracy of kindness. The contagion of such an attitude can warm hearts, but if left unchecked it can light the world.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

When Hope Is Home, Fear Won't Call

REFLECTIONS
November 7, 2010

Fear has become a very large industry. I read in a recent article that while other holidays have remained flat in terms of growth in the last five years, Halloween has grown. This holiday dedicated to fright is becoming ever more popular. Resorts and amusement parks have created destination vacations. Scary movies are released as near to October 31st as possible. Then of course there is the costumes and the candy. Though all in the name of good fun we embrace fear.

The prophet Haggai was one of the so called latter prophets. Scholars tell us that the message of these prophets followed or rather continued the thought of the former of a unified nation for the people of Israel along with the ushering in of the messianic age. In 589 B.C.E. the Babylonians conquered Israel and took their captives to Babylon. In 538 B.C.E. after defeating the Babylonians, Cyprus issued a decree which allowed the Jews to return to their homeland. This decree also encouraged the people of Israel to unify their leadership and rebuild the temple in Jerusalem which had been destroyed by the Babylonians. Nearly two decades after being freed, the Jews had not begun the work on the temple and were not unified politically. The primary reason? The people are paralyzed by fear. Whether fear of failure, fear of success, or fear of being conquered again is not stated, however the prophet addressed the issue head on in the second chapter.

“Speak now to Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and to Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and to the remnant of the people, and say, “Who is left among you that saw this house in its former glory? How does it look to you now?” (Verse 2) The prophet goes on to ask whether there is enough memory of their former worship and lives together to find the energy to rebuild again. Using words in the form of an oracle from God, Haggai writes “Yet now take courage, ...take courage, all you people of the land, says the Lord; work, for I am with you says the Lord of hosts, according to the promise I made to you... my spirit abides among you, do not fear.” History records somehow this worked. The temple was started in 520 and completed in 515. The political and worship life of the people restored. What the text reminds us, is that faith and fear are not new at all. More importantly still the words of the old prophet ring just as true today as they did two and a half millenia ago. To be afraid, even in the name of entertainment, requires effort. In the presence of a holiday celebration not a bad way to spend some time. However, with the rest of the time we have, how much better as people of faith to work and live in the presence of Hope?

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Earning Salvation or Responding To It

REFLECTIONS
October 31, 2010

There is an old adage that says, "You can lead a horse to water but you cannot make him drink." The meaning, of course, is meant more for humans to illustrate how in our animal-like stubbornness, we can harm ourselves by refusing help. This is perhaps even more true in terms of people responding to the experience of faith. Luke 19:1-10 tells the story of Jesus traveling to Jericho. As he arrives, Zacchaeus, the local tax collector comes to hear him speak. It is important to remember that in those days tax collectors were more like robbers sanctioned by the government to take your money. Tax collectors were allowed to add penalties if they chose as long as they paid the governor the agreed upon rate. What makes this interesting is the fact that a crook as Zacchaeus would have the desire to hear the itinerant preacher Jesus speak. Scripture records that his was a life changing event for Zacchaeus.

Keeping the concept of leading, in the face of strict resistance, albeit in a different context, consider the words of Paul in II Thessalonians 1:1-4, 11-12. Here the apostle shares the joy he, Timothy, and Silvanus have over this community’s openness to their teachings about the life of Jesus. Paul and his ‘Sons’ knew how resistant some communities have been, and want to affirm the people of Thessalonica. So impressed with their willingness to learn and grow in faith, the letter is written as a boast on this community and passed on to the other churches in the region, holding them up as a model.

Where Zacchaeus responded to salvation as it was offered by Jesus, the Thessalonians would seem to have earned it by possessing attentive spirits. In the horse analogy one had to be drug to the water then invited to drink. The other upon hearing the good teachings realized they were thirsty.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

A Trust Worthy of Investment

REFLECTIONS
October 24, 2010

In second Timothy 4:6-22 we see the most pastoral side of the letter to Timothy. Here a seasoned pastor (Paul) writes an adopted son (Timothy) deep words of encouragement as one’s life and ministry is ending and the other’s is just starting. Any among us who have had the privilege of knowing a Spiritual Mentor can appreciate the power of this passage. If we do our work of faith effectively, we end up worn out and fearless in the end.

Though the language of having ‘fought the good fight, and finished the race’ have what we might call the meaning of sporting competition, the unique difference is the authorship and intent. In Greek to receive a bouquet of flowers or a laurel crown would mean a personal physical achievement for an individual. Whereas in the Jewish tradition Paul hailed from, this would be a spiritual celebration representing the joy of a life of faith.

I am all too well aware that many people are deprived of good mentors. In youth, their parents are either poor or absent role models. Which is why I celebrate and count as gifts the mentors throughout my life. My parents were from what author Tom Brokaw calls “The Greatest Generation.” Solid, unspectacular people whose life patterns are the benchmark I strive to live toward as a citizen. They did not preach their faith they just set about living it. In school, from elementary to junior high, then on to high school and college and finally graduate school, I was fortunate to have teachers who were academic mentors if you will. Individuals who knew the value of learning and willingly showed interest and shared of their gifts. Finally in my professional life as a pastor I have been no less fortunate. I have written from time to time about Dr. J. Miles Acker, Jr., who was so generous with his time and talent as I was emerging professionally. Miles was the best kind of mentor and teacher in that complacency was a dead end road for him. Any time he felt I was entering this realm or worse, becoming closed to new thoughts, he would jab me in the ribs with a thought or phrase capable of jolting me back on track. The good doctor is gone a dozen years and I miss him still.

What mentors teach mostly is the power of investment in the lives of those around us. They model the value of being interested in people, in loving , and caring for the community and the planet. They never preach action, rather they live for it till they drop. I still have mentors though I am nearly thirty years into my call to ministry. For me the reason is simple and selfish. My desire is not to rust-out but rather to wear out.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

A GPS Is Not A Roadmap

REFLECTIONS
May 9, 2010

Today is Mother’s Day. We may not all be mothers, but we all have (or had) mothers. Some people for a variety of reasons do not connect with their natural mother, but everyone does seem to have a mother figure.

An old Jewish saying says, “God could not be everywhere, so God made mothers.” A Spanish proverb puts it another way, “An ounce of mother is worth a pound of clergy.” Poems, songs, novels, and plays have been written depicting the value and strength of motherhood. Famous people usually give their mothers credit. President Lincoln wrote, “All that I am, or hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.” Earlier, John Quincy Adams had written, “All that I am my mother made me.”

From time to time, I have shared with you stories of my mother. Her wit, will, and wisdom have marked me beyond measure and in many ways continue to shape my existence. My mother taught me that doing your best was more important than being the best. Her gift of a passion to do the right thing, rather that the popular thing, is a treasure. She believed in equal justice and an extra measure of grace for everyone, and her faith led her to witness these truths.

I only remember her being truly wrong once. Not long after I was ordained, we had a serious disagreement. It lasted the better part of a year. The details aren’t important, but the point of departure was over her judgment of somebody. My mother argued the judgment of God, and I argued the love of God as she had taught me. Once in frustration she asked, “What kind of minister are you?” I responded, “A frail and human one whom you taught to believe in a loving and forgiving God.” It was not an easy time for either of us. In an attempt to resolve the argument, I asked my mother to look at three of her favorite scriptures; Matthew 7:1-7, Philippians 3:12-16 and 4:13. Whether the scripture worked, or she had pity on me, something changed and we got past our differences. Our relationship was not the same, it was better.

It is the only argument I ever won with my mother. Perhaps she did let me win, yet I am certain she gave me the tools by teaching me faith, justice and a full measure of grace.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

The Five Second Rule In God's Kitchen

REFLECTIONS
May 2, 2010

The Book of Acts is attributed to the author of Luke’s gospel. In Acts, we find the early church fighting to find form and function in terms of discipline and development. Arguments large and small would rage over gifts of the Spirit, especially who was allowed to follow the teaching of Jesus . In Acts eleven, Peter is defending the necessity of the emergent Church in its need to be open to gentiles, which is to say non Jewish and including even Pagan persons, interested in experiencing the love of God in Christ. The difficulty Peter and the Apostles faced was those believers who still held strict adherence to Judaic Law which meant rules against outsiders, and specific dietary laws as well. Many within the early Church were concerned with who was in and who was out, and what was clean and what was not. To illustrate this most of us can look no further than our childhood. Was yours the first name called when choosing teams for sports? When I was in grade school or perhaps Jr. High there was a popular song that went something like this, “I’m in with the in crowd, I go where the in crowd goes. I’m in with the in crowd, I know what the in crowd knows.” Through much of my adolescence I was either a partner to or a victim of this thinking. These illustrations are mere snapshots of a larger phenomenon which afflicted the early faith community. Namely an aversion the revealed truth which Jesus taught and moreover lived.

The process of faith is one of constant revelation in terms of personal experience. The clearest biblical evidence of this for me is seen in the stories of Peter and Paul. Peter was one of the earliest disciples who when Jesus shared his upcoming arrest, trial and passion, assured the Master he would follow him to the death. Jesus told Peter not only would he not do this, but in fact he would betray his Lord three times before sunrise. Jesus did this not to impugn his reputation or crush his spirit, rather to state that Peter was not yet ready to be the Rock upon which the early church could be built. Likewise with Paul, an early persecutor of the followers of Jesus, he was certain of his way and understanding of faith until confronted by Christ spiritually. Each of these men needed revealed experiences which opened them to new possibilities in terms of ordering their lives of faith. The net result of Peter and then Paul’s experience of encountering Christ was that they could not live the same way they had in the past. They had to move to a new reality of what it meant to be a follower of Jesus. No longer could they be arbiters of clean and unclean, or who does or does not belong. Their life was now focused on a faith fashioned and focused on an all inclusive love, sung to a tune of grace and forgiveness.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

If Jesus Cooked, Would You Eat Fish For Breakfast?

Reflections
April 18, 2010

The twenty-first chapter of John is an epilogue that in literary works summarizes or provides closure to the story.

Peter, James, John, Nathaniel and Thomas and two unnamed disciples decide to go fishing. After a long night with no luck, a stranger from shore calls and asks if they've caught any. They say no and he suggests they cast their nets on the other side of the boat. As they do this, the nets become so heavy with fish they cannot haul them in. John recognizes Jesus and at hearing this, Peter jumps into the water to go ashore. The others follow in the boat and bring one hundred fifty-three fish with them.

At shore, Jesus is at a campfire cooking them a breakfast of fish and bread. The story is full of details. We are told the names of five disciples with two left nameless, but the total number is seven, considered a perfect number in Biblical times. The number of fish is divisible by three, that was considered spiritual. This was the third time Jesus revealed himself to the disciples. The Jesus repeats the request that Peter "feed his sheep" three times possibly reflecting the three denials Peter made of Jesus. At the close of this passage Jesus foretells the martyrdom of Peter and ends by telling those gathered to follow Him.

This is a remarkable story on several levels. Instead of flash and flair, Jesus offers practical help with fishing and then serves the disciples breakfast. The offer of advice from Jesus is the gospel writer's reminder that Jesus remains as a comfort and guide. In a powerful shift from trial and crucifixion, Peter instead of avoiding Jesus cannot get to him quickly enough. The breakfast is a reminder that Jesus is the bread of life and disciples are called to witness. The first letters of the words Jesus Christ, God's Son, Savior, spell the Greek work fish, so during the early persecution of the church, believers used the symbol of a fish to indicate their faith. Finally, the dialogue Jesus had with Peter is a wonderful indication that however one may choose to deny God, the love, hope, forgiveness, and grace of God still comes. The closing remark of Jesus to follow Him is very similar to the opening of the gospels where Jesus encounters those fishing and says, "follow me and I will make you fishers of people."

In effect of course these words are anything buy an epilogue. For the gospel story is written each day when disciples anew offer the bread and hope of grace to a world hungry for the love of God.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

What's In Our Spiritual Wallets?

REFLECTIONS
April 11, 2010

You’ve no doubt seen the commercial. The buyer takes a credit card out to buy something and a hoard of ruffians heads his or her way. They stop only upon finding that it is a certain brand of card. Then looking into the camera the toughies say “What is in your wallet?,” the implication being that if we don’t have this card our monetary life is in danger. These are interesting times in terms of finances so there is some value to such a message. To be aware of cost and risk is an important question. When I started to work for my father at age fifteen, quite often I would ask the question, “Pop, how much does that cost or what is that worth?” He gave one of three answers consistently. “Too much,” “Enough.” Or my particular favorite now (not then). “Son if you have to ask, you can’t afford it.”

The central question of the book of Acts is, what is the cost of discipleship? The early Church is struggling with not the concept, but the actual risk of following Jesus. In chapter 5:27-32, Peter and the Apostles have been brought before the religious council for violation of religious law. This has, of course, a familiar ring to it, for not a week ago the Scripture reading for Holy Thursday, and Good Friday had similar questions being asked of Jesus. The high priest states ,“We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and you are determined to bring this man’s blood on us.” Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than any human authority. The God of our ancestors raised up Jesus, whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. God exalted him... and we are witnesses to these things, and so is the Holy Spirit...” It is clear that the Apostles have been warned not to preach in the name of Jesus or to teach his ways in Jerusalem. Yet, here they are before the very same council that warned them not to do so. When they told the religious leaders that it was by the power of God through the Holy Spirit that they preached and taught, at first the Council so enraged wanted to kill them. However, at the urging of one leader they were instead jailed, beaten and released. Whereupon, they rejoiced in their suffering and immediately began preaching and teaching in the name of Jesus.

The early Christian Mothers and Fathers knew the very real risks attached to life in relation with Jesus. Yet they embraced it. We in the modern Church are apt to ask why should I do this or that, or even more pointedly, what’s in it for me? Our ancestors in the faith knew if not intrinsically, certainly in their souls, that personal cost was not the question. Perhaps they knew Paul’s words from II Corinthians 5:19-20 “that is, in Christ, God was reconciling the world to himself, not counting our trespasses against us, and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation... Making us ambassadors for Christ.” We do well not to ask what the salary and benefits are?

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Easter Is A Marathon, Not A Sprint

REFLECTIONS
April 4, 2010

The most popular Easter narrative is John: 20:1-18. It finds Mary Magdalene at the burial ground of Jesus. Finding the stone rolled away and presuming the tomb empty she seeks out Simon Peter and John, the “beloved disciple.” They literally run to the tomb and on the evidence of the burial cloths being left behind, believe Jesus has risen. Mary comes back to the tomb enters and sees two angels, but not Jesus, they speak to her but she does not understand. Finally, Jesus speaks to her but she mistakes him for the gardener. It is when he calls her by name that she recognizes him. In some measure and means the story of Easter is the willingness to see the power of salvation, then having the heart to share the story. In the book of Acts, Peter is recorded saying some things which illustrate. “Peter opened his mouth saying; ‘Truly I perceive that God shows no partiality, but in every nation anyone who knows their need of God and does what is right, is acceptable to God.’” Peter then goes on to tell an abbreviated version of the temptation and passion of Jesus, reminding his listeners that he was among the first to see Jesus post Easter. It was then that Peter and those gathered with him experienced the Holy Spirit. For Peter the linking of the stories is essential. The gift of the Spirit is a direct result of the Passion.

Part of the question we as moderns must ask is, what do we believe and where do we see evidence to support our thought? What are our resurrection stories? Better still, where do we find ourselves in need of resurrection? The greater message of Easter is not found on a cross or in a tomb, but rather in how we respond to the way of the Master. Do we follow Jesus or just empathize with the story? The call, of course, is to get involved. Tom Waits is a unique singer songwriter. His voice is very rough and at times his message equally so. On an album for which he won a Grammy he utters the words to an L. C. M. (my abbreviation not his, standing for Last Christian Martyr) “You gotta get behind the mule if you want to plow,” then at a particular point he says to the offender “come down from the cross, because we need the wood.” To me this means our participation in Easter is to speak of the Good News we have known and seen. To share the wonder we have found in a relationship with Jesus. An L. C. M. prefers the must of the tomb or the comfort of the cross to getting behind the mule, literally the word and work of Jesus. I don’t know about you but the mule looks more interesting.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Faith Is A James Brown Song

REFLECTIONS
March 21, 2010

Scholars tell us that Psalm 107 is probably a song used by those who have come in off the desert to celebrate a festival. It begins with the words, “O give thanks to the Lord, for God is good; God’s steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble...” Then just a few Psalms later in 126, a so called song of ascents, the psalmist gives voice to the celebration of deliverance from threats. “When the Lord restored the fortunes of Zion, we were like those who dream. Then our mouth was filled with laughter, and our tongues with shouts of joy; then they said among the nations, “The Lord has done great things for them.” The Lord has done great things for us; we are glad.

When I read these two passages together I heard a voice, though not the one most might think. I heard the voice of the late great singer James Brown. I was transformed back to the first time I saw him on television. It was the early version of Dick Clark’s American Bandstand. The show was in black and white, not the high definition digital color we have today. I was young and mesmerized by he stylish flamboyance. Where most of the men who performed on the show wore sport coats, Mr. Brown wore what appeared to be formal wear. While most singers stood at the microphone James treated it like it belonged only to him making it at times a part of the performance. Even the way he sang seemed different. This was before the Beatles or at best very early in the “British Invasion.” It was certainly pre-Heavy Metal, and Grunge Rock when lyrics became secondary to volume, or so it seemed. When James Brown sang he articulated the lyric, but the energy was so intense that at time it became difficult to understand what he was singing.

He presented music as a celebration. Becoming a force of nature almost in a dervish like trance. Though years later there would be tales of great excess regarding alcohol and drugs, few of which he denied, early in his career his energy seemed more pure as if coming from a spiritual side. It is important to note that James Brown like many early Rock and Roll stars first played in churches before making it to The Ed Sullivan Show. It may perhaps seem strange enough to think of reading a Psalm and hearing James Brown sing, but if you’re interested, this is the abridged version . “I feel good, I knew that I would. Now, I feel good, I knew that I would. Soo good, Soo good, God is so good. Heh”

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Grace Helps The Meal Taste Better

REFLECTIONS
March 14, 2010

Sixty-two years ago this Sunday the first worship service was held on this property. The congregation started in a home, moved to Lankershim Elementary School, finally setting down roots at Lankershim and Weddington Streets for the next thirty years. The planned expansion to the Tujunga site was delayed by World Was II. Finally, this property was acquired and the first building constructed was the Social Hall. This space would be used for worship and social gatherings for about two years until the Sanctuary was completed. There are probably less than a dozen people active in this parish today who were present on Easter Sunday 1949 when the Sanctuary was consecrated, let alone were present for the consecration of the Social Hall, March 14, 1947.

However, they need not be present because we have a thorough historical record. Beyond that, and perhaps more important still, we have their stories. Some of us have been fortunate enough to know those who brought the Church to this location. Over coffee, a meal or perhaps a Christmas tree sale we have heard the struggles and triumphs of their common history. The gift of God throughout faith history is that called people are to have a strong memory of the past and a clear vision for the future.

Those folks who gathered here for the first worship service at 4832 Tujunga Avenue knew from where they had come. They settled in this community with a sense of purpose and a forthright vision of where they were called to be and what they were called to do. They had a heart for community and invested time and effort to build and teach so. Moreover, they had a heart for the hopes and needs of the world and extended themselves financially and spiritually into this cause as well. Our task today, tomorrow and each day which follows is to retain a keen sense of the rich past which we share, and then lean full force into what lies ahead.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Kindness A Soul Can Cling To

REFLECTIONS
March 7, 2010

We seem to live in a time and space where food, fashion, and fitness have become part of a new religion. This is not to say health isn’t important, it most certainly is. In an Associate Press article, writer Mark Sherman cited recent studies by the Journal of American Medicine, The Center For Disease Control and The Rand Corporation having found that in American culture obesity has nearly replaced smoking as the number one preventable cause of death. The article quotes Health and Human Services Secretary, Tommy Thompson recently, “We’re just too darn fat, ladies and gentleman, and we’re going to do something about it.” What is planned is a national campaign to educate people to eat more healthy food and less unhealthy food and to exercise more.

Another point of the article was that Congress is considering legislation to prevent obese Americans from suing the fast food industry for their condition, and the McDonald’s corporation ending the promotion of “Supersizing” fries and drinks. On the other side of this issue are recent studies which have shown that people can be both fat and fit and civil rights groups which claim discrimination against over-weight people in business and industry.

Which brings us to Isaiah 55:1-9. This passage is part of a segment found in third Isaiah where acting as the mouthpiece of God seeks to comfort the people in exile. This passage is an invitation to a banquet. Verse two is particularly interesting, “Harken diligently unto me and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in fatness.” Of course, lest we rush to the refrigerator, scholars tell us that the text is replete with metaphoric and symbolic language.

The food offered at this feast would be the spiritual variety. A sip of care, a bite of hope, a morsel of justice, the bread of loving kindness. The people were under extreme pressure and the prophet offers the spiritual refreshment which is necessary for faith to endure and grow. In essence the prophet is saying feast on the goodness of God, may your spirit be nourished by encountering the Holy.

During Lent, fasting can be part of the faith journey in our tradition. Another practice is refraining from eating favorite foods during the forty days between Ash Wednesday and Easter. Over the years I’ve given up cake, ice cream and soda pop. However, after considering Isaiah’s text I had a vision of a hot fudge sundae. It seemed quite spiritual to me.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Ave., North Hollywood, CA 91601

Be Somebody Because You Are

REFLECTIONS
February 28, 2010

I have a colleague (now retired) whose father was a well known minister in another part of the country. My friend said he struggled with a sense of call, and then one day while on a college retreat, he became certain of his call by God to become a minister. On his next trip home he went to his father and told him of his call and his dad said, “Son do anything else if you can.” When my colleague shared this story, a fair number of those in the room did not understand why his father wasn’t overjoyed. Then the man said, “He simply wanted me to be sure, for if I wasn’t, the heartbreak would be devastating spiritually.” Like his father this fellow was an active Methodist minister for nearly five decades.

Isaiah 6:1-6, (9-13) is the call of Isaiah. There is somewhat of a formulae for the calling of an individual by God. God contacts either through angels or in person. The person demurs saying they cannot do what God is asking. This short list is: I’m too old, or young, I’m a woman, or I don’t speak well. For Isaiah, it is that he is one of ‘unclean lips,’ meaning he is a resolute sinner. The final action in the call involves God touching the person literally or spiritually and then reemphasizing the holy claim upon them. In this passage the lips of the prophet are touched and make him clean and thus worthy of becoming a mouthpiece for God.

To serve God is a tremendous gift, but the burden of such service is an individual awareness of human limitations while engaged in the work of so called holy thought and action. It is no wonder that to be called takes some convincing. For we all have our share of fears and doubts. The French author, Anatole France said of fears limiting our efforts; “To accomplish great things we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.” As for our limitations and shortcomings the late Sir Winston Churchill said it best with the phrase, “We are all worms, but I do believe I am a glow-worm.” The message therein, be it a call from God, a word from Isaiah, or thought provoking aphorisms from world leaders or artists is straightforward and direct. Be somebody, because we already are. Whether we feel like it or not in the name of love with potential and hope beyond measure we are each and every one of us, somebody.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

A Past, Present and Future Hope

REFLECTIONS
February 21, 2010

We have just celebrated Valentine’s Day. To some, it’s a soporific celebration created by florists and the manufacturers of greeting cards and candies. To others, it’s a perfect day set aside to consider matters of the heart. A day when we claim the power, purity and possibilities found in hearts conditioned to hope and care.

The philosopher, Buckingham, wrote, “All true love is grounded on esteem,” and the thought does make sense. Our lives along with the signs of life around us in flora and fauna are signs and symbols of the esteem, the love and care God has for creation. The nurture, support, care and leading we receive from parents, friends, and family come because of the esteem in which we are held. While passion is certainly important in a committed relationship, psychologists have found long marriages have a common element in unconditional regard for the other’s welfare. That is, people who stay together hold each other in high esteem.

The love which comes from God and is best known through Jesus is AGAPE. It is a Holy type of love. The passionate love one feels for a mate is EROS. It is physical, yet in the best sense is emotionally and spiritually pure. The love which binds communities is called PHILIAL; as in Philadelphia, “The City of Brotherly Love.” Each of these loves and any other we know or define can only be effective when both the transmitter and receiver of love are open to the power of esteem.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Beyond the Casket of Selfishness

REFLECTIONS
February 7, 2010

Some years ago Tina Turner had a hit song with the words, “What’s love got to do with it? What’s love but a second hand emotion.” We know from her biography and interviews that this song was for entertainment purposes, and that in fact Ms. Turner has serious thoughts about how important love is as a source of hope and healing. If we look at the writing of Paul, we could easily say love has everything to do with it. For the apostle, even through bold and sometimes harsh exhortations to those his letters are addressed, opens and closes his epistles with words of loving care and encouragement. He dedicates the entire 13th chapter of his first letter to the people of Corinth to the concept of what it means to live a love-centered life, closing with the phrase, “So faith, hope, love abide, these three; but the greatest of these is love.”

The late theologian, C. S. Lewis, spent thousands of words on hundreds of pages describing the concept in a book titled the Four Loves. He suggested the first love is Eros the love of attraction. This is the science of hormones where through biology and circumstance we become drawn to one another. He says the second love is Philial, a Greek term for love of another, as if they were brother or sister. Many of us in childhood experience a bond with a friend which becomes lifelong, and though no relation, these folks become family. The third word he uses is Storge, usually pronounced store jay, a Greek word for familial love. The family of origin, nuclear family, dysfunctional or otherwise they are our own. The character Sir Toby in Shakespear’s Twelfth Night expresses this when in frustration he fumes, “Am I not consanguineous? Am I not of her blood?” Illustrating the adage that while we may not choose them as friends; we are related by blood, they are family. Dr. Lewis spends a great deal of time with the fourth love which he calls Agape, the Greek word for Holy love, that transcendent gift we experience in the person and presence of Jesus. According to Lewis, it can never fully be ours because the power of God’s love is meant to be shared.

Still, talk of love is difficult for the simple notion that we are people who say we believe the Bible is the truth of the love of God, yet we feel free to use it as a tool to judge and often hate people who are different than ourselves. The Gospels record that a scribe, in an attempt to trick Jesus, asked what the greatest commandment was. Jesus in response issued two new commandments as the summation of all Mosaic law. “To love the Lord your God with all your heart and mind and strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself.” The word on love, be it from Matthew, or Paul to the Corinthians, or in the voice of C. S. Lewis remains the same. It is all encompassing and its etymology can be traced to the heart of God.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Finding the Key to Awesome

Reflections

February 14, 2010

Theologian Frederick Buechner offers some insight into the term Holy. In his book Wishful Thinking, he writes, "Only God is Holy, just as only people are human. God's holiness is part of his Godness. To speak of anything else as holy is to say that it has something to do with God's mark upon it. Times, places, things, and people can all be holy, and when they are, they are usually not hard to recognize."

To experience the holy in the terms the Reverent Buechner means is to look at our experiences differently. To look at those around us and even ourselves with uncommon expectations. Jesus moved throughout his ministry with just such a model of faithfulness. When healing, He focused not on disease but health and wholeness. When criticized for breaking the laws of faith, He reminded the people that laws were made to serve people, not the reverse; and the ultimate service was toward God. The people Jesus chose as disciples and later sent as apostles were folks who had seen holiness in him...in his speech, touch, manner and movement. We experience anew that holiness when we read the story of faith in Scripture. Be it the story of the patriarchs, the narrative of Bethlehem, the calling of the disciples or the letters of Paul to mission churches, we see and feel the holiness in the story. We fail as modern believers if we view it as something holy which happened. The holiness of God which Jesus spoke and the Bible records is happening still.

What does it mean to experience a holy moment? Most of us have had one if we take the time to remember. Births, baptisms, communion, weddings, funerals all provide opportunities for holy moments. However, holiness is not regulated to houses of worship or worship events. The beauty of a rainbow can be a holy moment. Wild flowers blooming in the desert are holy. The sun rising over the mountains is holy. The sun setting over the water is holy. You and I, if we dare, can be holy for each other and this world when we allow something of God's love to show in us.

Imagine if we looked at each other with reverent expectancy, counting on good and glorious things to come from each other. If you are one who believes holiness happens only in lofty surroundings, take the time to watch a child chase a butterfly or two old folks play chess. Holiness happens not because of us, but in spite of us because of God's grace in our midst.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald

First United Methodist Church

4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Why One Person Orchestras Aren't Popular

REFLECTIONS
January 24, 2010

Years ago, when playing little league baseball, a team I played on was pretty good but we could have been better. We never really played as a team in a cohesive sense because we had one player (actually our best player) who endeavored to play all nine positions at once. We won games, and even qualified for the playoffs, however, this one person team kept us individually and collectively from reaching our full potential. This happens in life and is certainly an element of Church life. Sometimes we become so involved in doing everything that we leave no room for others to be a part also.

What does it mean to belong to something greater than oneself? In his letter to the people of Corinth this is the central question Paul seeks to answer. After the church was established, the people began to break into groups, arguing over who was more spiritual. The Apostle spent a great deal of time addressing these issues in chapters eleven and twelve, culminating with his argument and instruction in chapter thirteen about the power of love to transform life.

In chapter 12:12-31a Paul uses the analogy of the human body to deflect dissension and create a sense of belonging within the community. He explores the understanding by stating that we cannot individually be the entire body, but only the part we have been created to be. Even the consideration of spiritual gifts limits our ability because spiritual gifts are different.

Paul insists that we have need of one another so that working together we become ‘the body of Christ’. A living symbol of God’s love lived in and through community. What makes this possible in faith communities is the knowledge that we are not called to compare gifts, or compete to see who is best among us. Rather, we are called to claim our gifts and work together that love might be known in ever new and mysterious ways.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Faith Means Less Theory and More Practice

REFLECTIONS
January 17, 2010

January 18th is a National holiday so designated in honor and memory of civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The debate prior to the naming of this holiday was loud and long. It centered around the worthiness of Dr. King having a day named for him. His behavior as a man, an academic, a minister of the gospel and as a social force were all held up to public scrutiny. Even though, for some, questions of character remain; a day was named in honor of Dr. King with each state given the right to designate how to observe the day. Some states have chosen to ignore the day, citing crowded calendars, yet a case could be made for other issues at play.

The message of Dr. King was simple and powerful yet at its heart quiet. God is loving and just, and we are called to live toward those ideals. Dr. King lived and taught that we are to stand together in the name of love on matters of justice, care, and peace. For him, fair wages, voting rights, along with the right to ride, eat, drink, or sleep in a non-segregated environment were not matters of color, but matters of justice rooted in faith. God had called Martin as God had tapped his father before him. His message carried political implications, but was at its base Biblical and faithful to his Christian calling. While it is true he had a political profile, he remained throughout his life a pastor.

It was April 4th of 1968 when an assassin’s bullet killed Dr. King. He would be the first to remind us that the greatest Purveyor of Peace died at the hands of violence. That how Jesus lived is more significant than His death, because He live fully toward the will and reign of God. Our focus must be the will, the wonder, the work, and the way of Christ and not His death alone.

It seems to me that we will be doing well this January 21st, not merely remembering Dr. Martin Luther King’s birthday, but remembering the aim and ideals of his life. He lived fully toward the gospel of Jesus Christ and paid with his life for proclaiming what God called him to say and do. In memory of Dr. King and in honor of his faith and recognition of our commonness in Christ might we dare to dream; of more peaceable cities, states, and nations. Of standing up for what is right, just, loving, and holy, lest we fall for something less. Do we make the day just another day off, or do we pause and remember that it, and we count for something?

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Doing Right While the Sun Endures

Reflections
January 3, 2010

We stand at the front edge of a new year with empty calendars and great expectations, wondering what the year will bring. Of course, none of us know for sure what the year will bring, but we can say with some certainty our expectations are a factor. If we go through life with low expectations, chances are our expectations will be met. However, if we choose to set high expectations, while there will be disappointments (even detractors critical of the lofty view) there is great joy in living fully to the best and brightest hopes.

John Wesley was an 18th century Anglican Priest who, along with his brother, Charles, began the Methodist movement in England and what were then the American Colonies. John Wesley believed in the power of the Spirit and the development of the mind, and to that end along with his brother used popular music with theological lyrics and small group common sense faith to change the face of religion in Europe and what would become the United States.

Two of his most famous rules seem worthy of sharing at the start of this year. On stewardship he wrote; "Earn all you can, Save all you can, Give all you can." On doing the work of faith as disciples he wrote; "Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the place you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can."

It has often been said that we might be the only Bible some individuals read, the only Sunday School some will experience is through our word and deeds. If this is true, then the question ever before us must be..Are the words we offer those of criticism or care? Are our actions born of judgment or grace? Is the time we offer God given instead of or along with our treasure? Are the relationships we build with faith communities born of conscience, commercial appeal or a commitment of the soul?

Of course, all of the above is easier said than done and I close with a story to illustrate. A fellow awoke early one Sunday and said to his sleepy wife, I don't think I will go to church today. I don't much care for the way worship is planned. Too many people sleep during the sermon and criticize the preacher afterward. The coffee at fellowship is weak and the conversation too strong. Another thing that bothers me; just then his wife elbowed him and said, your faith calls you to be loving not judgmental. The household of faith needs understanding not evaluation. Beside, you are their Pastor, Joey, now go and lead worship! With great expectations let's get on with God's work.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Locating Love is Not Complicated

Reflections
December 27, 2009

In his book Leaving Home, Garrison Keillor has an essay titled, "Christmas Dinner." The story suggests that the primary function of Christmas gatherings is to argue politics, watch football and eat ourselves out of one wardrobe and into another. In a line which speaks volumes about his experience he writes, "You close your eyes and when you open them you could be six or you could be forty-two." For him the story of Christmas is something one can relate to and touch. The late theologian and Christian mystic, Dr. Howard Thurman takes a different approach. In his text, The Growing Edge, he writes of the mood symbol and quality" of Christmas, and of the "fullness of time," found in the person and ministry of Jesus. "As we look at the life of Jesus, we discover there was no great dazzling character to his daily living experience..." "He did a thousand little things, but all of them were infused with the most profound awareness of his life as a living instrument in the hands of God. He was available to God totally..." Thurman's point, and I dare say Keillor's, is hat the gift we are given by God in our Christmas tradition is remembrance. For all of Mr. Keillor's humor, one can sense in the weaving of his words the powerful bond he finds in relationships and how remembering Christmas dinner becomes more rich with the passage of time.

In faith, we remember that in the "fullness of time" God came to us in the person and presence of Jesus. In his life and ministry, Jesus shows us that love may have come down at Christmas, but it didn't stand still, rather it lives unto God and moves among people in real time.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601

Peace is Just One Kiss Away

Reflections
December 20, 2009

Theologian, Frederick Buechner writes that before news can be good or bad it is simply news. According to the dictionary, news is previously unknown information. Originally news came to us in bits and pieces, traveling by whatever means available, then being dispersed by those in the community with credibility and once. From a town crier to a news paper then a telegraph, and finally a telephone, the news of the day sort of eased its way into our lives. In this day and age we are so enthralled with news that at any given moment one can turn on the TV or power up the internet and find more news and information than can possibly be absorbed. Whether it is good or bad is less relevant than the fact that anything one might want to know is available at anytime.

Jon Stewart is the host of The Daily Show. A popular talk and commentary program which reports current events with a marked comedic twist. Though the program offers disclaimers and Mr. Stewart touts the program as fake news, according to research, a growing segment of individuals eighteen to forty-nine cite this program as their main source for news. What this seems to be importing is that either a growing part to the viewing audience prefers entertainment over hard news, or more disturbing, there are people who would prefer manufactured as opposed to actual data.

In the Bible, the writings of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John are called gospels. The term according to scholars means good news. In each case, the writer brings their particular understanding of the goodness of God in Jesus. Mark is believed the earliest writing and John the last. Though the stories are different, written from the perspective of the authors, they are not manufactured and certainly not fake.

We hear news, view or read it, take it in, then factor the value we ascribe to it. Especially in Advent, we need to tell and retell the news of our faith. Mark, in the opening of his gospel shares the most important aspect of the reporting. Mark has no birth narrative, he begins with John the Baptist preaching in the wilderness. The power of their story is not John but his message which has two key elements. The first is don't focus on John, he is just the messenger. Hear the message that God calls us to a relationship of dynamic change. Secondly, the more powerful message is found in Jesus. We tell and retell the story not because we are slow or hard of hearing, but because in the repetition, the news becomes richer and a full blessing in ways unknown before.

Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601