July 3, 2011
Biblical scholars remark that the 24th chapter of Genesis is easy to overlook because it is preceded and followed by the funerals of leading figures in faith history, namely Sarah and Abraham. The story of chapter 24 begins with Abraham discerning that his son, Isaac needs a wife. He instructs a trusted member of his staff of where to go and what to look for in a marriage companion for Isaac.
A dictionary says the term major-domo refers to the head steward of a large household who acts on behalf of the head of the house. In Genesis 24:1-67 after arranging for the burial of his wife Sarah, Abraham gives instructions to his head steward (scholars think this was Eliezer) a highly regarded servant, to find a wife for his son Isaac. It is essential to note that the first thing Eliezer does is pray before asking Rebekah if she will return with him to marry Isaac. Arranged and bartered marriages were common within societies of the Near East at this time. It was common with theses tribal cultures to marry other people from within their own clan. Sending a representative of one’s household to broker the transaction was also a normative practice. Another important element to consider is the text shares that Rebekah is asked for permission before the negotiations are concluded.
The choice of Rebekah has been compared to that of Abraham. She, just as the patriarch, leaving her family and homeland to enter into relationship with people unknown is thought an act of faith. Her sons Esau and especially Jacob would shape the future of ‘the chosen people.’ The theological continuum first noted in the call of Abram in chapter 12 is further underscored here. To clearly understand, the will of God is the life work of Abraham. This concept is present in the answer of Rebekah. This is followed in the work of Abraham’s faithful steward, as well. While Eliezer certainly is the head steward of Abraham’s family, it would be safe to say that the true vocation he represents is a Holy application.
Friday, September 2, 2011
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Between Gatekeepers and Relatives
Do you read advice columns? They illustrate perfectly how relatives and religious people say some wonderful and awful things. In one column, a while back, a person wrote to say that his understanding of faith called for him to ‘spiritually divorce’ himself from anyone whose views were not in tune with his. The advice columnist response was this thinking did not fit with the general understanding that theology is about love rather than hate. So the concept of staying apart from those who disagree with you would not be wise. In a recent column “Ask Annie” was queried on how to stop a relative from being a bully? Citing an earlier bit of advice where Annie had said simply leave when relatives become insulting and overbearing (the advice seeker) said this did not seem fair, and wanted to know how to change the behavior of said relative? Annie responded by saying leaving is always the first best option because while we cannot change the way others treat us, we can remove ourselves from toxic circumstances.
I remember hearing a lively and engaging sermon some years ago. The title was “You Can’t Box God, Your Arms Are Too Short.” The premise was similar to most of the writings of Paul. Who are we to argue with the workings and wonder of God? Yet we humans have been doing just that for millennia. Fighting with God over who is elect and who is damned? Creating our own rules with regard to who is accepted and who must be shunned in the name of faith? Even to the point of killing people simply because their views are different. It happens yet today. In Romans 11 Paul is responding to serious questions. The first is why and how Gentiles can be part of the realm of God? The second is, if this is so, what becomes of Israel with regard to being the elect, or chosen of God?
In his wonderful rhetorical idiom the Apostle asks and answers the questions. Did God reject Israel? Of course not, and then to underscore this point, “I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.” As to how gentiles are part of the ‘Party’ Paul writes in verse thirty-two “God has imprisoned all in disobedience in order to show mercy to all.” This, of course, ended all dissent, debate, and demeaning treatment in all religious arenas. Remember our brother writes before the Church split East and West, denominations, the crusades and all the fun religious bigotry of the twentieth century. His point then and now still holds. It is God who invites and invests in humanity. In our dissent and undignified beliefs and behavior we often miss God’s graciousness.
I remember hearing a lively and engaging sermon some years ago. The title was “You Can’t Box God, Your Arms Are Too Short.” The premise was similar to most of the writings of Paul. Who are we to argue with the workings and wonder of God? Yet we humans have been doing just that for millennia. Fighting with God over who is elect and who is damned? Creating our own rules with regard to who is accepted and who must be shunned in the name of faith? Even to the point of killing people simply because their views are different. It happens yet today. In Romans 11 Paul is responding to serious questions. The first is why and how Gentiles can be part of the realm of God? The second is, if this is so, what becomes of Israel with regard to being the elect, or chosen of God?
In his wonderful rhetorical idiom the Apostle asks and answers the questions. Did God reject Israel? Of course not, and then to underscore this point, “I myself am an Israelite, a descendant of Abraham, a member of the tribe of Benjamin.” As to how gentiles are part of the ‘Party’ Paul writes in verse thirty-two “God has imprisoned all in disobedience in order to show mercy to all.” This, of course, ended all dissent, debate, and demeaning treatment in all religious arenas. Remember our brother writes before the Church split East and West, denominations, the crusades and all the fun religious bigotry of the twentieth century. His point then and now still holds. It is God who invites and invests in humanity. In our dissent and undignified beliefs and behavior we often miss God’s graciousness.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
July 31, 2011 Archives
7-31-2011:
Story has it that the mother of Ray Charles, fearful of her son’s dependence on her sought to change the path of his life. Blind since birth she had tended to his every need, until the realization that she would not always be there for him. The next day she made him get ready on his own. While he screamed and wailed behind his bedroom door she listened in agony on the other side. The change she had chosen for her son was incredibly difficult, but she explained she was doing this for his future. He went on to fame and fortune, remaining fiercely independent, both as a recording artist, and as a businessman, being one of the few artists of his era to control the master recordings to his music.
Genesis 32:22-31 is the ‘bookend’ to chapter 28:10-19a. In chapter twenty-eight Jacob is on the run from his brother Esau. Having cheated him out of his birthright for a bowl of soup a few chapters earlier, Jacob now has stolen the family blessing belonging to Esau. Having sent his family across the Jabbok river he settles in for a nights rest but as in chapter twenty-eight he gets none. Where in the earlier story he visioned his ancestors, here he spiritually wrestles with God. So bold is Jacob that with the Holy he will not quit until he receives a blessing. Therein his name is changed to Israel, because he has ‘struggled with humans and with God and prevailed’. Jacob (Israel) then changes the name of the place to signify the Holy encounter.
In athletics someone with talent is referred to as a ‘game changer’. In the realm of faith God is ‘The Game Changer’. God saw something in Jacob, which Jacob himself could not perceive, leadership and hope. This errant vagrant grandson of Abraham was changed both in name and spirit by the blessing of God. A gifted theologian Max Lucado puts it slightly differently. “ While it is true that God loves us as we are, God does not expect us to stay where we are.” This is the spirit of Holy change to which we are all invited.
Story has it that the mother of Ray Charles, fearful of her son’s dependence on her sought to change the path of his life. Blind since birth she had tended to his every need, until the realization that she would not always be there for him. The next day she made him get ready on his own. While he screamed and wailed behind his bedroom door she listened in agony on the other side. The change she had chosen for her son was incredibly difficult, but she explained she was doing this for his future. He went on to fame and fortune, remaining fiercely independent, both as a recording artist, and as a businessman, being one of the few artists of his era to control the master recordings to his music.
Genesis 32:22-31 is the ‘bookend’ to chapter 28:10-19a. In chapter twenty-eight Jacob is on the run from his brother Esau. Having cheated him out of his birthright for a bowl of soup a few chapters earlier, Jacob now has stolen the family blessing belonging to Esau. Having sent his family across the Jabbok river he settles in for a nights rest but as in chapter twenty-eight he gets none. Where in the earlier story he visioned his ancestors, here he spiritually wrestles with God. So bold is Jacob that with the Holy he will not quit until he receives a blessing. Therein his name is changed to Israel, because he has ‘struggled with humans and with God and prevailed’. Jacob (Israel) then changes the name of the place to signify the Holy encounter.
In athletics someone with talent is referred to as a ‘game changer’. In the realm of faith God is ‘The Game Changer’. God saw something in Jacob, which Jacob himself could not perceive, leadership and hope. This errant vagrant grandson of Abraham was changed both in name and spirit by the blessing of God. A gifted theologian Max Lucado puts it slightly differently. “ While it is true that God loves us as we are, God does not expect us to stay where we are.” This is the spirit of Holy change to which we are all invited.
Sunday, July 10, 2011
July 10, 2011 Archives
The writings of Matthew, Mark, and Luke are called the synoptic gospels. Scholars use this term because, while they approach the life and work of Jesus differently, some of the work is quite similar. One element each has is the parabolic teaching by Jesus. Luke contains the greatest number of parables, but all three authors note this work. Parables were common stories used throughout the region. They were used to make a point with regard to culture and custom, especially with regard to normative behavior. What Jesus did was apply the stories to a life in faith. The parable of the good Samaritan, and the parable of the Lost Son also known as the Prodigal Son are found only in the work of Luke. The parable of the Sower is in all three gospels.
In the parable of the sower, Jesus uses common life experience to illustrate how people respond to the Word of God. “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Others seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain...” verses 3b-7. Jesus closes the parable in verse nine with the admonition, ‘Let anyone with ears listen!’ In verse eighteen through twenty-three Jesus amplifies the teaching by sharing how those who either did not hear, respond, or in some manner were inhibited from doing so, met devastating results in their spiritual lives. Likewise those who heard and responded blossomed spiritually.
Pat Alger and Ralph Murphy wrote a modern parabolic interpretation of this message titled “Seeds.” It was a very popular recording. The second verse is the teaching narrative. ‘I saw a friend the other day I hardly recognized; he’d done a lot of living since I last looked in his eyes. And he told his tale of how he’d failed and the lessons he’d been taught. But he offered no excuses, and he left me with this thought:’ (chorus) “We’re all just seeds, in God’s hands–We start the same, but where we land–is sometimes fertile soil and sometimes sand. We’re all just seeds in God’s hands.” In the Bible, in life, we are each and every day invited to do at least two things well. Listen and grow.
In the parable of the sower, Jesus uses common life experience to illustrate how people respond to the Word of God. “Listen! A sower went out to sow. And as he sowed, some seeds fell on the path, and the birds came and ate them up. Other seeds fell on rocky ground, where they did not have much soil, and they sprang up quickly, since they had no depth of soil. But when the sun rose, they were scorched; and since they had no root, they withered away. Other seeds fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up and choked them. Others seeds fell on good soil and brought forth grain...” verses 3b-7. Jesus closes the parable in verse nine with the admonition, ‘Let anyone with ears listen!’ In verse eighteen through twenty-three Jesus amplifies the teaching by sharing how those who either did not hear, respond, or in some manner were inhibited from doing so, met devastating results in their spiritual lives. Likewise those who heard and responded blossomed spiritually.
Pat Alger and Ralph Murphy wrote a modern parabolic interpretation of this message titled “Seeds.” It was a very popular recording. The second verse is the teaching narrative. ‘I saw a friend the other day I hardly recognized; he’d done a lot of living since I last looked in his eyes. And he told his tale of how he’d failed and the lessons he’d been taught. But he offered no excuses, and he left me with this thought:’ (chorus) “We’re all just seeds, in God’s hands–We start the same, but where we land–is sometimes fertile soil and sometimes sand. We’re all just seeds in God’s hands.” In the Bible, in life, we are each and every day invited to do at least two things well. Listen and grow.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Between Providence and a Cloverleaf
The difference between pre-destination and providence could be compared to a rigged game and a fair contest. Theologically the construct in pre-destination is that God has your life and all events therein fixed at conception. All outcomes and consequences are determined in advance. The concept of providence is more like from time to time the spirit nudges us, or a guiding hand leads us. With providence, often it is only seen when looking back upon an event. The reasoning of pre-destination would be no matter what choices are made either good or bad the events are beyond personal control. Free will has no part in this thinking.
Genesis 22:1-14 is a passage scholars call the testing of Abraham. It is difficult for us to fathom the obedience the patriarch displays because we know where God is leading, and while the outcome of the story is positive, the ending would have been far different with the sacrifice of Isaac. To concentrate on whether Abraham would willingly sacrifice his only son is to lose focus. A point worth some consideration is to concentrate on the earnest intent of Abraham to see where God wanted him to go, then to act in faith believing God would be present. This relationship began years ago when God asked him to leave his homeland and family to establish a land for God’s people. As part of the relationship, God changed Abram, and Sari, to Abraham and Sarah, and assured them the blessings of ancestors would be theirs.
With the relationship in full force, Abraham travels into unknown territory with his son Isaac. When his son notes that the wood and fire are present for the burnt offering, but asks where the lamb for the offering is, his father simply says God will provide it. We can merely speculate what went through Abraham’s heart and mind as he bound his son, placed him on the altar and prepared to sacrifice him. Only when an angel intercedes on behalf of God does Abraham look up and see the ram caught in the bramble. He named the place “The Lord will provide.” At the voice of the angel, what did Abraham see when he turned his eyes from the altar to the horizon? It seems fair to say he saw the promise of God in terms of relationship, along with a better value of providence.
Genesis 22:1-14 is a passage scholars call the testing of Abraham. It is difficult for us to fathom the obedience the patriarch displays because we know where God is leading, and while the outcome of the story is positive, the ending would have been far different with the sacrifice of Isaac. To concentrate on whether Abraham would willingly sacrifice his only son is to lose focus. A point worth some consideration is to concentrate on the earnest intent of Abraham to see where God wanted him to go, then to act in faith believing God would be present. This relationship began years ago when God asked him to leave his homeland and family to establish a land for God’s people. As part of the relationship, God changed Abram, and Sari, to Abraham and Sarah, and assured them the blessings of ancestors would be theirs.
With the relationship in full force, Abraham travels into unknown territory with his son Isaac. When his son notes that the wood and fire are present for the burnt offering, but asks where the lamb for the offering is, his father simply says God will provide it. We can merely speculate what went through Abraham’s heart and mind as he bound his son, placed him on the altar and prepared to sacrifice him. Only when an angel intercedes on behalf of God does Abraham look up and see the ram caught in the bramble. He named the place “The Lord will provide.” At the voice of the angel, what did Abraham see when he turned his eyes from the altar to the horizon? It seems fair to say he saw the promise of God in terms of relationship, along with a better value of providence.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Wow!
I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,This anonymous poem titled “Blind Spots,” was borrowed from a publication of “The Decatur Christian,” and printed in a Sunday Bulletin for this congregation on December 3, 1944. It serves as a valuable reminder to those who believe spiritual apathy is a current development in the faith community. Spiritual laziness, of course, can afflict any person of faith. Furthermore, with two career families, single parent households, children, and school, the demands placed on time are great.
Real service is what I desire.
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,
But don’t ask me to sing in the choir.
I’ll say what you want me to say, dear Lord,
I like to see things come to pass,
But don’t ask me to teach boys and girls, dear Lord,
I’d rather just stay in my class.
I’ll do what you want me to do, dear Lord,
I yearn for the Church to thrive,
I’ll give you my nickels and dimes, dear Lord,
But please don’t ask me to tithe.
I’ll go where you want me to go, dear Lord,
I’ll say what you want me to say,
I’m busy just now with myself, dear Lord,
I’ll help you some other day.
Too often, those who work in the faith community (both paid and volunteer) ask where others are who might have talent to contribute to a program or a project? While it is helpful to wish for others to be involved, it can be hurtful to question another person’s faith commitment on the basis of participation. For this can lead to the LCM syndrome. We all know people like this; some of the best of us fall into this behavior from time to time. LCM stands for Last Christian Martyr, and this flawed thinking leads certain folks to think the Church would fall apart if they stopped doing whatever they do. The truth is, before we came, someone did the work of the Church, and after we are gone someone will do the work of the Church. Not because of human nature, but because God’s nature is to call us into active relationship.
Rather than looking around and asking why certain people aren’t involved, perhaps a new question is in order. The question functions along the lines of, “Am I searching for spiritual values to live by and then living toward them; with others and especially with God?”
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Specialty
We live in a time of specialty drinks. From the ordeal of ordering a simple cup of coffee, to organic power drinks, each beverage is customized. Even water needs to come from a European well or mountain stream. When we were children soft drinks were a treat, as were lemonade and ice tea. However, we did have two options for a drink of water out of the kitchen faucet, or on a very hot summer day, straight from the hose. Did you cringe at the last sentence? Those of us who lived the experience did as well. In eighth grade science we learn that water is necessary for life. In fact, we as humans are mostly water, with an allowable factor of hot air and malarkey thrown in. The Space Program of the United States of America seeks signs of intelligent life on other planets. Any hope of proof comes with the discovery of a water source. For life to exist there must be clean drinkable water.
In John 7:37-39, the promise of life giving water first given in the Book of Numbers 20:1-13 is retold. Moses and the people wander from Kadesh seeking to enter Canaan without water until God instructs Moses to strike a rock for living water. In the text from John it is with Jesus being ‘life giving spiritual water’ who in relation to God gives life through the spirit as well. Just as Moses was challenged and threatened in the desert, Jesus is criticized then plotted against by religious opponent; just as the promise of a ‘Land’ was held before the people of Israel. In the third chapter of John, Nicodemus, a religious leader comes to Jesus at night to ask about the Realm of God. In verse five Jesus points that ‘ no one can enter God’s realm without being born of water and spirit.’ While this confounded Nicodemus and some within the early Church along with some today as well, it is consistent with early Christian practice rooted in Paul’s writing, the text of the Book of Acts, and the teachings of the Apostles.
We are told by Cultural Anthropologists that Native American tribal practice held that water was drawn at daybreak with enough brought to last the day. The next morning any left from the day before was considered ‘dead’ and poured out. An interesting concept with regard to modern hygiene and how stasis promotes disease. What is suggested in John’s text through the words of Jesus is that we, like Nicodemus, are called to a double birth; one with water and one from above as in the Holy Spirit. It is both fitting and refreshing we begin the season of Pentecost with this helpful reminder.
In John 7:37-39, the promise of life giving water first given in the Book of Numbers 20:1-13 is retold. Moses and the people wander from Kadesh seeking to enter Canaan without water until God instructs Moses to strike a rock for living water. In the text from John it is with Jesus being ‘life giving spiritual water’ who in relation to God gives life through the spirit as well. Just as Moses was challenged and threatened in the desert, Jesus is criticized then plotted against by religious opponent; just as the promise of a ‘Land’ was held before the people of Israel. In the third chapter of John, Nicodemus, a religious leader comes to Jesus at night to ask about the Realm of God. In verse five Jesus points that ‘ no one can enter God’s realm without being born of water and spirit.’ While this confounded Nicodemus and some within the early Church along with some today as well, it is consistent with early Christian practice rooted in Paul’s writing, the text of the Book of Acts, and the teachings of the Apostles.
We are told by Cultural Anthropologists that Native American tribal practice held that water was drawn at daybreak with enough brought to last the day. The next morning any left from the day before was considered ‘dead’ and poured out. An interesting concept with regard to modern hygiene and how stasis promotes disease. What is suggested in John’s text through the words of Jesus is that we, like Nicodemus, are called to a double birth; one with water and one from above as in the Holy Spirit. It is both fitting and refreshing we begin the season of Pentecost with this helpful reminder.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Finding Faith Everywhere
Where is faith found? To be sure faith is found in a wide variety of Holy writ, covering many languages and cultures. Faith is both caught and taught through lessons, doctrines and especially through song and proclamation during worship. Land is consecrated and buildings are built for the purpose of such teaching and gathering. However, is faith really found in an edifice or rather in the spirit of the gathered community seeking to know God?
Dr. Samuel H. Dresner was a student of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel. In a book titled I Asked For Wonder/A Spiritual Autobiography, he compiles the teachers thoughts on a wide variety of topics. In one titled “Faith Is a Blush” he shares:
It has been said that the most important act of faith one might perform quite possibly will not take place in a Temple, Church, or Mosque; in fact, it may well occur on the highway, in the supermarket, or at a sporting event. We must be willing to broaden the horizon, and look beyond Holy sites for faith expression and experience. When this occurs the possibility of holiness happening simply causes us to shine.
Dr. Samuel H. Dresner was a student of Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel. In a book titled I Asked For Wonder/A Spiritual Autobiography, he compiles the teachers thoughts on a wide variety of topics. In one titled “Faith Is a Blush” he shares:
GodThe Rabbi seems to imply, as the Prophets of Judaism insisted, that true faith begins in knowing our need of God, and in such awareness, obtaining a touch of humility which causes us to shine in the presence of Holiness. Remember the story of Moses on Mount Sinai, receiving the Commandments. As he came down the Mountain the people noted his face shone brightly for having been near God. Moses was not in the Temple, and still the result of his encounter with God stands today as a powerful symbol of the connection God has with people.
is unwilling to be alone,
and humans
cannot forever remain impervious
to what God longs to show.
Those of us who cannot keep their striving back
Find themselves at times
within the sight of the unseen
and become aglow with its rays
Some of us blush,
others wear a mask.
Faith is a blush
in the presence of God.
It has been said that the most important act of faith one might perform quite possibly will not take place in a Temple, Church, or Mosque; in fact, it may well occur on the highway, in the supermarket, or at a sporting event. We must be willing to broaden the horizon, and look beyond Holy sites for faith expression and experience. When this occurs the possibility of holiness happening simply causes us to shine.
Sunday, May 29, 2011
May 29, 2011
As people of faith, we are frequently asked to pray for those experiencing trouble. Be they victims of natural disaster, those experiencing a health crisis; perhaps folks going through a difficult transition such as a job loss, or going away to school. We pray because as part of the beloved community we are called to do so. This was part of the model for ministry which Jesus taught. However, do we remember to give thanks for the comfort which comes from and through prayer?
In Psalm sixty-six, the author divides the song in two equal parts. The first half is a plaintive request for Holy intervention. The words reflect a life in need of fixing, so the prayer is one of ‘God let’s make a deal.’ It has been said that ‘there are no atheists in fox-holes.’ To that end the early part of this psalm/song is one of siege. The second half is about holding up the personal promise given. The author states that if God grants protection, and care, then a life of service and praise will result. To modern hermeneutic scholars this sounds like the prosperity theology of a televangelist, yet a closer look at the Psalms would reveal it to be a balanced understanding of what a life of faith looks like in real time.
Anyone, past puberty in terms of faith, knows that sometimes life is all about cherries while others is about the pits, figuratively if not literally. A good friend once said, “Too often we treat our faith as if we live in a Stained Glass Fox-Hole, but the reality is we reside in a garden with ample room to take root and grow.” How fortunate we are that God’s grace is the foment of our existence.
In Psalm sixty-six, the author divides the song in two equal parts. The first half is a plaintive request for Holy intervention. The words reflect a life in need of fixing, so the prayer is one of ‘God let’s make a deal.’ It has been said that ‘there are no atheists in fox-holes.’ To that end the early part of this psalm/song is one of siege. The second half is about holding up the personal promise given. The author states that if God grants protection, and care, then a life of service and praise will result. To modern hermeneutic scholars this sounds like the prosperity theology of a televangelist, yet a closer look at the Psalms would reveal it to be a balanced understanding of what a life of faith looks like in real time.
Anyone, past puberty in terms of faith, knows that sometimes life is all about cherries while others is about the pits, figuratively if not literally. A good friend once said, “Too often we treat our faith as if we live in a Stained Glass Fox-Hole, but the reality is we reside in a garden with ample room to take root and grow.” How fortunate we are that God’s grace is the foment of our existence.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
May 22, 2011, part 2
When we are just getting started whether in sports, work, or even life itself, we need an extra measure of support and care. As a small boy I can remember very clearly my mother forcing us to take a shovel full of Cod Liver Oil (well it seemed like it to me) each night before bed. She was interested in the health of her five children and to that end did all she could to be certain we had the food education and nurture to make us strong.
In first Peter 2:2-10, the author is writing in this same paternal vein. With the care of someone wise and understanding along with that of one willing to nudge a loved one in terms of spiritual growth. The letter opens, “Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation– if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
Though these words were written for the early converts in Asia Minor, they continue to have great value when considering the work of a faith community. That work is one needing both formation and outreach. The formation is the work done within the body of believers in terms of worship, nurture and outreach. The work is the fuel which then enables the community to go forth and demonstrate the Love of God in tangible means in cities, states, countries in the Biblical sense to the world.
One of the things I lean on for spiritual strength is music. Not just so called sacred music; though I like ‘Old Traditional Hymns, along with popular Christian music.’ One of my favorite classic Rock and Roll singer songwriters is Jackson Browne. In part it may be because he is just a bit older than myself, and we both grew up in Orange County. However, it probably is simply because of the words he uses when crafting a song which feels like a musical vitamin, only not as onerous. In a song from the album “Running On Empty,” the words convey a convincing thought. “Gotta do what you can, just to keep your love alive. Trying not to confuse it with what you do to survive. In sixty-nine I was twenty-one and I called the road my own. I don’t know when that road turned onto the road I’m on. Running on empty, Running Blind, Running into the Sun, but I’m Running behind.” Words like these I find at times can be an elixir for me. Just as helpful as that Cod Liver Oil, and more pleasant to boot.
In first Peter 2:2-10, the author is writing in this same paternal vein. With the care of someone wise and understanding along with that of one willing to nudge a loved one in terms of spiritual growth. The letter opens, “Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation– if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
Though these words were written for the early converts in Asia Minor, they continue to have great value when considering the work of a faith community. That work is one needing both formation and outreach. The formation is the work done within the body of believers in terms of worship, nurture and outreach. The work is the fuel which then enables the community to go forth and demonstrate the Love of God in tangible means in cities, states, countries in the Biblical sense to the world.
One of the things I lean on for spiritual strength is music. Not just so called sacred music; though I like ‘Old Traditional Hymns, along with popular Christian music.’ One of my favorite classic Rock and Roll singer songwriters is Jackson Browne. In part it may be because he is just a bit older than myself, and we both grew up in Orange County. However, it probably is simply because of the words he uses when crafting a song which feels like a musical vitamin, only not as onerous. In a song from the album “Running On Empty,” the words convey a convincing thought. “Gotta do what you can, just to keep your love alive. Trying not to confuse it with what you do to survive. In sixty-nine I was twenty-one and I called the road my own. I don’t know when that road turned onto the road I’m on. Running on empty, Running Blind, Running into the Sun, but I’m Running behind.” Words like these I find at times can be an elixir for me. Just as helpful as that Cod Liver Oil, and more pleasant to boot.
May 22, 2011
When we are just getting started whether in sports, work, or even life itself, we need an extra measure of support and care. As a small boy I can remember very clearly my mother forcing us to take a shovel full of Cod Liver Oil (well it seemed like it to me) each night before bed. She was interested in the health of her five children and to that end did all she could to be certain we had the food education and nurture to make us strong.
In first Peter 2:2-10, the author is writing in this same paternal vein. With the care of someone wise and understanding along with that of one willing to nudge a loved one in terms of spiritual growth. The letter opens, “Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation– if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
Though these words were written for the early converts in Asia Minor, they continue to have great value when considering the work of a faith community. That work is one needing both formation and outreach. The formation is the work done within the body of believers in terms of worship, nurture and outreach. The work is the fuel which then enables the community to go forth and demonstrate the Love of God in tangible means in cities, states, countries in the Biblical sense to the world.
One of the things I lean on for spiritual strength is music. Not just so called sacred music; though I like ‘Old Traditional Hymns, along with popular Christian music.’ One of my favorite classic Rock and Roll singer songwriters is Jackson Browne. In part it may be because he is just a bit older than myself, and we both grew up in Orange County. However, it probably is simply because of the words he uses when crafting a song which feels like a musical vitamin, only not as onerous. In a song from the album “Running On Empty,” the words convey a convincing thought. “Gotta do what you can, just to keep your love alive. Trying not to confuse it with what you do to survive. In sixty-nine I was twenty-one and I called the road my own. I don’t know when that road turned onto the road I’m on. Running on empty, Running Blind, Running into the Sun, but I’m Running behind.” Words like these I find at times can be an elixir for me. Just as helpful as that Cod Liver Oil, and more pleasant to boot.
In first Peter 2:2-10, the author is writing in this same paternal vein. With the care of someone wise and understanding along with that of one willing to nudge a loved one in terms of spiritual growth. The letter opens, “Like newborn infants, long for the pure, spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow into salvation– if indeed you have tasted that the Lord is good.”
Though these words were written for the early converts in Asia Minor, they continue to have great value when considering the work of a faith community. That work is one needing both formation and outreach. The formation is the work done within the body of believers in terms of worship, nurture and outreach. The work is the fuel which then enables the community to go forth and demonstrate the Love of God in tangible means in cities, states, countries in the Biblical sense to the world.
One of the things I lean on for spiritual strength is music. Not just so called sacred music; though I like ‘Old Traditional Hymns, along with popular Christian music.’ One of my favorite classic Rock and Roll singer songwriters is Jackson Browne. In part it may be because he is just a bit older than myself, and we both grew up in Orange County. However, it probably is simply because of the words he uses when crafting a song which feels like a musical vitamin, only not as onerous. In a song from the album “Running On Empty,” the words convey a convincing thought. “Gotta do what you can, just to keep your love alive. Trying not to confuse it with what you do to survive. In sixty-nine I was twenty-one and I called the road my own. I don’t know when that road turned onto the road I’m on. Running on empty, Running Blind, Running into the Sun, but I’m Running behind.” Words like these I find at times can be an elixir for me. Just as helpful as that Cod Liver Oil, and more pleasant to boot.
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Who Guards Your Neighborhood?
In a magazine titled “Departures” the May/June issue deals with the culture of luxury. In a very brief single page article, actor Alec Baldwin writes of the necessary luxuries, then lists his own. Both by name and in a pictorial setting. They are as follows: A print copy of the New York Times; drawing with Crayons; Fig Newtons; and the City of New York. Though he elaborates a bit on each as to why these items bring him comfort, it is clear he has a personal connection in his life to each.
I can still recall with some vividness a childhood experience. I was with my family at the beach at age six or seven. My father had just come out from a swim and scooped me in his arms and walked toward the ocean. At first I was fine, then became a bit afraid as he walked in the waves, then near hysteric as we moved further in. My dad then recognized my fear and deposited me beside my mom. I will never forget the look of disappointment on his face. He was a great swimmer, barely forty at the time, yet his youngest could not muster enough comfort to trust in his care. Later, when I went to work for him I came to understand him as a person who would never intentionally put someone, let alone one of his own, in harm’s way. One of my fondest memories is how much trust and delight my sons had in their Grandfather, and he in them.
Scholars tell us that most of the Psalms were for use in worship. Some were shared in formal ways while others were more private devotions. Psalm sixteen is of the latter category. It is titled “A Miktam of David.” According to Dr. Elmer A. Leslie a professor of Hebrew Scripture, Miktams are writings of personal relational spirituality which deal with ‘atonement or expiation.’ Virtually all of the first forty-one Psalms fit this description as they deal with protection, comfort and care from God for the one writing the prayer.
What makes Psalm sixteen work so well as a personal prayer is the specifics of the wording. In verse one it opens with a direct plea; ‘Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge...those who choose another god multiply their sorrows.’ The emphasis is on a deep trust the author (here it is David) has in relationship with God. The comfort derived from known boundaries of faith, and spiritual guidance. The Psalm closes with a summation of the author’s appreciation in verse eleven, ‘You show me the path of life. In your right hand are pleasures forevermore.’ So whether it is writing or saying a specific prayer, reading a newspaper, drawing a picture, or eating a cookie, especially a “Tates chocolate chip with walnut;” we each need personal places of comfort which we store in our memory and bring out to draw strength.
I can still recall with some vividness a childhood experience. I was with my family at the beach at age six or seven. My father had just come out from a swim and scooped me in his arms and walked toward the ocean. At first I was fine, then became a bit afraid as he walked in the waves, then near hysteric as we moved further in. My dad then recognized my fear and deposited me beside my mom. I will never forget the look of disappointment on his face. He was a great swimmer, barely forty at the time, yet his youngest could not muster enough comfort to trust in his care. Later, when I went to work for him I came to understand him as a person who would never intentionally put someone, let alone one of his own, in harm’s way. One of my fondest memories is how much trust and delight my sons had in their Grandfather, and he in them.
Scholars tell us that most of the Psalms were for use in worship. Some were shared in formal ways while others were more private devotions. Psalm sixteen is of the latter category. It is titled “A Miktam of David.” According to Dr. Elmer A. Leslie a professor of Hebrew Scripture, Miktams are writings of personal relational spirituality which deal with ‘atonement or expiation.’ Virtually all of the first forty-one Psalms fit this description as they deal with protection, comfort and care from God for the one writing the prayer.
What makes Psalm sixteen work so well as a personal prayer is the specifics of the wording. In verse one it opens with a direct plea; ‘Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge...those who choose another god multiply their sorrows.’ The emphasis is on a deep trust the author (here it is David) has in relationship with God. The comfort derived from known boundaries of faith, and spiritual guidance. The Psalm closes with a summation of the author’s appreciation in verse eleven, ‘You show me the path of life. In your right hand are pleasures forevermore.’ So whether it is writing or saying a specific prayer, reading a newspaper, drawing a picture, or eating a cookie, especially a “Tates chocolate chip with walnut;” we each need personal places of comfort which we store in our memory and bring out to draw strength.
Sunday, April 10, 2011
April 10, 2011
My mother had a particular phrase she would use when her unmotivated offspring were not performing to capacity. She would look at us and utter the phrase, “Move as if you have a breath of life in you.” She was a biblical scholar, but I did not know this at the time. Years later while studying the book of Ezekiel I ran across the phrase in chapter thirty-seven verse eight, “...and there were sinews on them, and flesh had come upon them, and skin had covered them; but there was no breath in them.” In the very next verse God instructs the prophet to continue to speak to the bones the words given in order that the breath of life would come in them. Through this theological construct God is asking the same question yet today with regard to humanity.
We would seem to be slow about the process of growing spiritually. However, Ezekiel appears ready both to grow as a person of faith and to act on behalf of God. When shown the valley of dry bones and then asked by God, “Can these bones live?” Ezekiel gives the answer we often do, only you know, God. When told to prophesy to the bones he does so without hesitation or regard, and they begin to come to life. The fullness of their development does not occur until God informs the prophet that the bones represent the people of Israel, and that the promise of God to act on their behalf still holds.
Being alive is vastly different than merely living. What the prophet shows is that when we allow the nurturing hand of Holiness to guide us, promises are revealed and blessings ensue. In other words to be fully alive as spiritual beings sometimes we need a little talking to. Of course it is much more helpful when we listen.
We would seem to be slow about the process of growing spiritually. However, Ezekiel appears ready both to grow as a person of faith and to act on behalf of God. When shown the valley of dry bones and then asked by God, “Can these bones live?” Ezekiel gives the answer we often do, only you know, God. When told to prophesy to the bones he does so without hesitation or regard, and they begin to come to life. The fullness of their development does not occur until God informs the prophet that the bones represent the people of Israel, and that the promise of God to act on their behalf still holds.
Being alive is vastly different than merely living. What the prophet shows is that when we allow the nurturing hand of Holiness to guide us, promises are revealed and blessings ensue. In other words to be fully alive as spiritual beings sometimes we need a little talking to. Of course it is much more helpful when we listen.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Temptation Is Really Imitation
Reflections
March 13, 2011
In his spiritual anthology, I Asked For Wonder, the late Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel shared his insight on what it means to be a person of faith. In a passage titled, "What We Owe" he writes, "The world was not made by man. The earth is the Lord's, not a derelict. What we own, we owe." Then the Rabbi closes with a quote from Psalm 116, "How shall I ever repay to the Lord all his bounties to me?"
It would be easy to think that Rabbi Heschel and the Psalm he quotes as well are referring to things monetary, but it would be a mistake. Though a monetary system was in place the Psalmist was interested in spiritual currency. In his writing Rabbi Heschel issues a call for spiritual not fiscal responsibility.
In Psalm 27, the author seeks to live in the house of the Lord forever. A wise noble, and holy thing to seek; most if not all would agree. For in a place of sanctuary there is safety, security, and in God's house holy things can and do happen. However, there is a cost and it has less to do with the state of our checkbooks than with the state of our souls.
When we gather in the house of the Lord, the rent has been paid. Paid by countless saints who have come before us serving God in selflessness. They gave generously of what they had both spiritually and financially, that we might have a place for our spiritual home. They did this knowing that others before them had done the same. Our continuing responsibility is to invite others into what we have come to call home.
In Lent, more than any other time or season of faith, we are called to remember the cost o faith. At times in our busy existence the spiritual aspects of prayer and self-denial of the season seem antiquated and burdensome. Yet, in our hearts we know there is a cost. If we forget there is always the cross to remind us. I agree with Heschel, "What we own, we own." However, since the rent's paid, all we have to do is the upkeep.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Love Changes Everything
Reflections
March 6, 2011
When I was in my last year of graduate school, now amazingly twenty years ago, life was hectic. I was serving 29 Palms United Methodist Church full time. Sue had no career option in the high desert that didn’t involve a hair net so she stayed with her company in Orange County and came up on weekends. Our sons were with me or in childcare. I had three semesters of course work left, the last one seemed the toughest. My dad had died the previous November, and I was driving 120 miles, one way, to school...sometimes five days a week. It was especially difficult for an 8:00 AM class. This meant waking my sons at 5:00 AM so I could make class.
One cold and rainy spring morning in March of 1986 we were running just a bit behind schedule. I started the trek to school, only to run over a rock that had washed onto the road causing me to lose a hubcap. I stopped, found the hubcap, pounded it back on getting my hands filthy and skinning a knuckle in the process. As highway 62 turns south heading out of the Morongo Valley, the storm worsened and slowed my journey. I could feel my class slipping away. Finally. I reached interstate 10 and headed west toward Claremont. With the rain still falling, the early morning sun was just peeking through the clouds behind me. Then a marvelous thing happened...a beautiful, full rainbow appeared in front of me, and stranger still it began to rain inside the car. At least I assumed so because my cheeks were wet. I was crying, stopping to compose myself I walked toward the rainbow a few feet pausing to take it in along with the sweetness of the desert air. Back on the road, for as long as I could, I just basked in the glory of that rainbow.
This was B.C.P before cell phones (imagine that) so after class, which I indeed made on time, I called my Mother and shared the story. She said, "when you saw the rainbow you thought of your dad." I said, "how did you know" and she reminded me of how my dad would stop the car on vacations to have us admire rainbows and remind us of the Noah blessing. What makes this significant is that my parents' relatives lived in Pennsylvania and Michigan so the car trips were long and deliberate, dawdling was not on the agenda. Except when there was a rainbow, then dad would stop the car and make sure we all saw it. Several years ago my son Aaron drove his 1969 Plymouth Barracuda to Carlisle Pennsylvania to a national show for Chrysler enthusiasts. I met him in Chicago and drove the twenty-one hundred miles back with him. It was August and we were in the Midwest so there were thunder storms. Somewhere in Iowa there was a big one, but there was also a beautiful rainbow. Aaron stopped and said lets take a good look. So we did. Every time I see a rainbow I think of my dad, because he knew every color in the band across the sky gives us good reason to be glad and hopeful.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Sunday, February 27, 2011
A Faith Journey Is Not A Timed Event
REFLECTIONS
February 27, 2011
Do you ever have those days when thirty seconds seems way too long to wait for a traffic signal? The few seconds it takes for your computer to reach the Internet is an eternity. In other words a simple task which might require a modicum of patience is asking something just not possible at the time. People who study human behavior tell us that technology has now driven humans to the state where we are often lacking proper civil decorum. Hence the likes of road rage, parking lot and shopping rage. For a variety of reasons we both work and play at speeds without leaving room for contemplation. Since we can check facts and figures nearly instantaneously, we are apt to think we know more than we actually do. This frees us to criticize, even condemn those we disagree with. This can become a non aerobic exercise for those of the muscle bound brain. Very good for the inflated ego, very bad for the soul. The Apostle Paul addresses this in his writing to the early Church.
In his first letter to the people of Corinth, responding to critics of his teaching along with that of his disciples he urges caution and calm. "Think of us in this way, as servants of Christ and stewards of God’s mysteries. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they should be found trustworthy. However, with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human. I do not even judge myself. I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me." 4:1-4 NRSV The words of Paul were strong when he wrote them. They are even more harsh today because we actually think we know something.
There is a wonderful song titled, "I’m In A Hurry (and I Don’t Know Why)" written by Randy Van Warmer and Roger Murrah. The refrain says volumes. "I’m in a hurry to get things done, oh, I rush and rush until life’s no fun. All I really gotta do is live and die, but I’m in a hurry and don’t know why." We seek to know, to make sense, to understand, to figure things out. The truth of the matter is, we cannot know and understand everything no matter how diligent we are. Over the years I have read of many folks rich, poor, famous, or pedestrian, educated or not, each with the singular belief that God does not exist. As a younger person this would either send me into a fit of anger, or a fancy for prayer over the said souls. Now it seem bemusing to ponder whether God ever doubts the existence of a nonbeliever.
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Act As If Believing Means Something
Reflections
February 20, 2011
The poet Maya Angelou says of life, "Nobody, but nobody gets through without help." Think of it, from the time we are born people are around us. Teaching, nurturing, protecting and nudging. As we mature, part of the natural response within us is to return those helps.
Psalm 121 opens with the line "I lift up my eyes to the hills. From whence does my help come?" The question is asked and answered by the writer. All Holy help comes from God alone. This was an important statement because at the time monotheism was new and communities often had many gods including a variety of household gods for protection and guidance. The Psalmist is saying only one God is necessary, because one God creates, guides, protects and helps all.
To look at an ancient text like this is sometimes difficult for modern thinkers. After all, we are independent, self reliant individuals. With a global positioning satellite, a portable laptop computer and a cellphone we can do just about anything. So the notion of taking time in contemplative thought to consider how blessed we are might seem unusual. yet, that is precisely what the psalmist is saying. That in a world of transiency, God is constant, reliable, available, creative, and creating.
To complete the idea of the poet, we would then be called to live life in the name of justice, healing, hope, and peace. For when the help of God finds a home in the human heart, Holy things happen.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Faith's A Relationship, Not A Negotiation
REFLECTIONS
February 13, 2011
We all live within the parameters of laws and human limitations. For example: when we, as full fledged middle aged persons, attempt to act like teenagers in either dress or demeanor, there will be repercussions. It might be the minor embarrassment of being attired in an age inappropriate manner, or it could be a major injury because we decided to begin hang gliding at fifty without physical training or flight instruction.
Laws are those things set forth as important restrictions with the intent of ordering behavior in order to protect society. We have laws for virtually every facet of life. From the way we drive, to how we conduct business. In some cases the areas we live have laws which regulate what color our homes may be painted and how long the garage door may remain open. Laws are not a new concept. Any civilization with a recorded history has codes of behavior for its people. In most cases these are related to religious or cultural tradition and in many cases both.
Religion has influenced the laws of many lands. The Muslim, Jewish and Christian interpretation of the Holy Scriptures we hold in common has long been subject to debate in terms of understanding. However, it is curious that these faiths along with most other historic faith traditions all have a form of what most theologians call the Ten Commandments. These rules or laws are found in the Bible in Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20. Even if we can’t recite them, we remember the essence of them as being tied to private and public behavior held in relation to God and others. In other words we may not get all the thou shalts perfect, but we know they are important. Perhaps in an effort to make them easier to remember, the Cross Trails Church in Fairlie, Texas has posted The Ten Commandments Cowboy Style on one of its walls.
There has been much time and money spent in debate over the last several years about the placement of The Ten Commandments on the walls of courts or in monuments before State Houses. It seems somewhat silly to hang them on the wall of a Court, or for that matter even the wall of a house of worship. After all Moses was given these gifts that those who came to know them would find room for them in their hearts. Not to regulate or remind humans of their limitations, but to point to the possibility found in Holy relationships.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
February 13, 2011
We all live within the parameters of laws and human limitations. For example: when we, as full fledged middle aged persons, attempt to act like teenagers in either dress or demeanor, there will be repercussions. It might be the minor embarrassment of being attired in an age inappropriate manner, or it could be a major injury because we decided to begin hang gliding at fifty without physical training or flight instruction.
Laws are those things set forth as important restrictions with the intent of ordering behavior in order to protect society. We have laws for virtually every facet of life. From the way we drive, to how we conduct business. In some cases the areas we live have laws which regulate what color our homes may be painted and how long the garage door may remain open. Laws are not a new concept. Any civilization with a recorded history has codes of behavior for its people. In most cases these are related to religious or cultural tradition and in many cases both.
Religion has influenced the laws of many lands. The Muslim, Jewish and Christian interpretation of the Holy Scriptures we hold in common has long been subject to debate in terms of understanding. However, it is curious that these faiths along with most other historic faith traditions all have a form of what most theologians call the Ten Commandments. These rules or laws are found in the Bible in Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20. Even if we can’t recite them, we remember the essence of them as being tied to private and public behavior held in relation to God and others. In other words we may not get all the thou shalts perfect, but we know they are important. Perhaps in an effort to make them easier to remember, the Cross Trails Church in Fairlie, Texas has posted The Ten Commandments Cowboy Style on one of its walls.
1. Just one God 6. No Killin’
2. Put nothin’ before God 7. No foolin’ around with another
3. Watch yer mouth fellow’s gal
4. Git yerself to Sunday meetin’ 8. Don’t take what ain’t yers
5. Honor yer Ma & Pa 9. No telling tales or gossipin’
10. Don’t be hankerin’ for yer buddy’s stuff
2. Put nothin’ before God 7. No foolin’ around with another
3. Watch yer mouth fellow’s gal
4. Git yerself to Sunday meetin’ 8. Don’t take what ain’t yers
5. Honor yer Ma & Pa 9. No telling tales or gossipin’
10. Don’t be hankerin’ for yer buddy’s stuff
There has been much time and money spent in debate over the last several years about the placement of The Ten Commandments on the walls of courts or in monuments before State Houses. It seems somewhat silly to hang them on the wall of a Court, or for that matter even the wall of a house of worship. After all Moses was given these gifts that those who came to know them would find room for them in their hearts. Not to regulate or remind humans of their limitations, but to point to the possibility found in Holy relationships.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
The Market Value of Spiritual Currency
REFLECTIONS
February 6, 2011
Friends recently gave me a book titled, A Continual Feast. It is a compilation of quotes on spirituality edited by Jan Karon. A couple of my current favorites are as follows. “The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are.” This remarkable saying is attributed to Marcus Aurelius who wrote in the first century C.E. What makes the quote, is the fact that we tend to think of these early times as serene and trouble free, and the saying would indicate they were anything but so. Another saying comes from the popular science fiction writer, Ray Bradbury, who said, “Sometimes you have to jump off cliffs, and grow wings on the way down.” The indication here would seem to be that risk is part of the freight of an adventurous life. The central element being what a life might cost.
In I Corinthians 2:1-16 the Apostle Paul wades in with his unique take on the value of a spiritual existence. For Paul a life of faith could not be separated from day to day living. For him, who we are, and what we are about, emanates from a spiritual foundation. In this passage, he writes to the people of Corinth with instructions on how to interpret a life in the Spirit. Because others followed him into this region saying, “They had the real truth, and Paul along with his followers had only part of the story.” Paul’s words are direct and to the point. First of all the story he told of the love of God in Jesus is not new or very complicated. So the gospel of God is not a new philosophy, but one rooted in an historic interpretation of how God interacts with humanity found in Scriptures which Paul refers to in his letters. Second, and even more importantly, is his insistence that mystery is part of a life of faith. He does not run or hide from the fact that we don’t get to know every thing. Later he embraces this thought fully when writing that what we see now is like looking in a dark or imperfect mirror, but in time we will see with greater clarity.
In this day and age any person, place or thing which strikes our fancy, we can Google and obtain a great deal of information. This is a wonderful aspect of technology. The issue resulting from our ersatz internet encyclopedia is that we often mistake data for understanding. What Paul is saying is that understanding is an act of the Spirit not of the brain. They both have value, yet where the mind eschews the unknown the soul embraces, even longs for it.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
February 6, 2011
Friends recently gave me a book titled, A Continual Feast. It is a compilation of quotes on spirituality edited by Jan Karon. A couple of my current favorites are as follows. “The first rule is to keep an untroubled spirit. The second is to look things in the face and know them for what they are.” This remarkable saying is attributed to Marcus Aurelius who wrote in the first century C.E. What makes the quote, is the fact that we tend to think of these early times as serene and trouble free, and the saying would indicate they were anything but so. Another saying comes from the popular science fiction writer, Ray Bradbury, who said, “Sometimes you have to jump off cliffs, and grow wings on the way down.” The indication here would seem to be that risk is part of the freight of an adventurous life. The central element being what a life might cost.
In I Corinthians 2:1-16 the Apostle Paul wades in with his unique take on the value of a spiritual existence. For Paul a life of faith could not be separated from day to day living. For him, who we are, and what we are about, emanates from a spiritual foundation. In this passage, he writes to the people of Corinth with instructions on how to interpret a life in the Spirit. Because others followed him into this region saying, “They had the real truth, and Paul along with his followers had only part of the story.” Paul’s words are direct and to the point. First of all the story he told of the love of God in Jesus is not new or very complicated. So the gospel of God is not a new philosophy, but one rooted in an historic interpretation of how God interacts with humanity found in Scriptures which Paul refers to in his letters. Second, and even more importantly, is his insistence that mystery is part of a life of faith. He does not run or hide from the fact that we don’t get to know every thing. Later he embraces this thought fully when writing that what we see now is like looking in a dark or imperfect mirror, but in time we will see with greater clarity.
In this day and age any person, place or thing which strikes our fancy, we can Google and obtain a great deal of information. This is a wonderful aspect of technology. The issue resulting from our ersatz internet encyclopedia is that we often mistake data for understanding. What Paul is saying is that understanding is an act of the Spirit not of the brain. They both have value, yet where the mind eschews the unknown the soul embraces, even longs for it.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
UMW Sunday
REFLECTIONS
January 30, 2011
January 30, 2011
Matthew 5:1-7 is part of the Sermon on the Mount. Jesus is teaching in the region of the Galilee, and comes to a crowd on the side of a hill where he sits and talks to them about the meaning of faith in a new age. The beatitudes include verses three through twelve, where the word blessed is used at least nine times .
The concept of being blessed, or for that matter cursed, was common during the time of Jesus. So for him to address the crowd in terms of blessings would not have been unusual. The difference was the style and phrasing he chose. For to say the poor in spirit, those who mourn, the meek, or the merciful are blessed seems odd.
A contemporary English translation phrases the beatitudes in this way. “God blesses those who depend on God. They belong to the realm of heaven. God blesses those who grieve, they will find comfort. God blesses those who are humble, the Earth will belong to them. God blesses those who want to obey God more than to eat or drink. They will be given what thy want. God blesses the merciful. They will be shown mercy. God blesses those whose hearts are pure, they will see God. God blesses those who make peace, they will be called God’s children. God blesses those who are treated badly for doing right. They belong to the realm of heaven. God will bless you when people insult you, mistreat you, and tell all kinds of evil lies about you because of me. Be happy and excited! You will have a great reward in heaven. People did these same things to the prophets who lived long ago.”
Even dressed up in modern language, the ‘Beatitudes’ don’t sound very beatific. The words of Jesus are straight forward, direct perhaps, even a bit harsh. Know your need of God. Know that sorrow comes to all. Know your place in the order of the universe. Know the true meaning of faith. Know the value of mercy. Know the value of a right heart. Know the strength of peace-filled living. Then if you manage to be righteous, sorrowful, humble, meek, humble, true of heart and peaceable, expect to be given a hard time. The words are less an affirmation of faith or an invitation to discipleship, than a warning or a disclaimer one might find in a contract on a product purchased. Jesus was no street corner evangelist looking for converts. He wasn't selling anything, but he was offering something. He offered a new way to relate to the world and to those around us in terms of faith. He spoke boldly in truth and love to open hearts and minds willing to see old truths in light of new stories. So often we wish to make Jesus a salesman or a storyteller. The truth is, before and after any discussion of his deity he remains our teacher. Yes, Jesus was a teacher, and the best teachers don’t tell us what we want to hear. They do however tell us exactly what we need to know.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
It Aint About Us
REFLECTIONS
January 23, 2011
January 23, 2011
There is a wonderful story which is set in a football stadium. There are one hundred thousand spectators in the stands. The team with the ball huddles and as the quarterback leans in to speak to the team, a fellow in the stands turns to a friend and says, “I just know they are talking about me.” In a fashion this illustrates what Paul is trying to get at in I Corinthians 1:10-18. He has received word that the Christian community in Corinth is being fractured by different groups claiming their individual beliefs and in some cases individual leadership to all others. In his appeal for unity, he writes pointedly in verses twelve and thirteen, “What I mean is that each of you says, I belong to Paul, or I belong to Apollos, or I belong to Cephas, or I belong to Christ. Has Christ been divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Were you Baptized in the name of Paul?” Then in the last verse of the passage he writes, “For the message of the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God.”
Early childhood development specialists tell us that a certain amount of self centeredness is normal in children. There are even names for difficult stages, hence the terms “the terrible twos, or tyrannical threes.” Even as adults, we are told that an amount of selfishness is necessary to maintain healthy self care. Some people, however, do not outgrow the behavior and narcissism becomes a way of life. These folks use the language of possession as in I, me, and mine. Everything in their lives is seen in relation to themselves. Of course, to a measure at times this is how we may relate to our existence, but not to the extent that the world does not exist without us.
Worse still, all too often, in matters of opinion and practice the margin for debate and civilized discussion is razor thin. This leads to the winners being the ones who shout the longest and loudest. This leads to sad and tragic results in everyday life especially as it relates to politics and religion.
Paul saw the clear answer to religious divisiveness. Follow the teachings of Jesus for they are rooted in scripture and are other directed rather than self centered. There is an old John Fogerty song with the line “Who will take the mountains and move then to the sea? I don’t know but it ain’t you or me.” Our brother Paul knew this two thousand years ago and we’re still playing the fools.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Life on the Rocks is Fine
Reflections
Sunday, January16th, 2011
Sunday, January16th, 2011
Tomorrow is a memorial holiday honoring the life and legacy of Dr.
Martin Luther King, Jr. As a national holiday, banks will be closed,
mail will not be delivered, and most schools will be closed. One
cannot help but wonder what Dr. King would have thought about this
development in his legacy. After all his life's work was about others
not himself. It does not seem unreasonable to think Dr. King would be
amused. His legacy with regard to Peace and Justice, was about
furthering the cause of those oppressed not singing out individual
contributors. These issues are as old as the text of the Prophet
Isaiah, and as fresh as tomorrow's headline from CNN. He would say
from The Reverend Dr. Ralph Abernathy, Rosa Parks, Cesar Chavez, and
Harriet Tubman, the names of those who worked for justice is long,
with millions of names of people you will never know and whose words
and thoughts will not be reflected upon tomorrow. For Dr, King his
individual name and fame was only important in so much as it may help
further the cause of justice, born in his heart of faith, and built
upon a foundation of faith with eyes able to vision what a fair and
open society might look like.
I have a dear friend who works for a company that honors Dr. Martin
Luther King's memory with a day off. This year for reasons not fully
explained, the company is giving the day off but requesting employees
come in and work, at bonus pay of course, because of the holiday. The
person because of an inherent since of a possibility the wrong message
is being sent, spoke to the head of the company. The head of the
company echoed the same concern, but said the decision came from
'higher up's in the company. Though disappointed, with the seeming no-
decision for awareness, this friend will ask those who desire, to come
in, not penalize those who choose not to, and cover for those who do
not come in, without personal additional compensation.
We expect immediate change, and while at times this may be possible,
more often than not chance moves more like a glacier than the wind.
Is a lack of change a valid reason for not seeking the furtherance of
a fair and just society? "God drew me up from the desolate pit, out
of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock." Dr. King was a solid
biblical scholar and would have recognized those words from psalm
forty. The following quotes are from the heart of Dr. King's
philosophy. The first will be heard tomorrow , the second probably
not. Both are essential. "I have a dream that my four little
children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged
by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."
"I refuse to accept the cynical notion that nation after nation must
spiral down a militaristic stairway into the hell of nuclear
destruction. I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will
have the final word in reality."
I was nineteen years old when Dr. King was assassinated. This
birthday would have been his eighty-second, yet his thoughts, dreams
and hopes seem so young and fresh. Which would seem to mean that the
foundation is still there, but there is much work left to do.
Martin Luther King, Jr. As a national holiday, banks will be closed,
mail will not be delivered, and most schools will be closed. One
cannot help but wonder what Dr. King would have thought about this
development in his legacy. After all his life's work was about others
not himself. It does not seem unreasonable to think Dr. King would be
amused. His legacy with regard to Peace and Justice, was about
furthering the cause of those oppressed not singing out individual
contributors. These issues are as old as the text of the Prophet
Isaiah, and as fresh as tomorrow's headline from CNN. He would say
from The Reverend Dr. Ralph Abernathy, Rosa Parks, Cesar Chavez, and
Harriet Tubman, the names of those who worked for justice is long,
with millions of names of people you will never know and whose words
and thoughts will not be reflected upon tomorrow. For Dr, King his
individual name and fame was only important in so much as it may help
further the cause of justice, born in his heart of faith, and built
upon a foundation of faith with eyes able to vision what a fair and
open society might look like.
I have a dear friend who works for a company that honors Dr. Martin
Luther King's memory with a day off. This year for reasons not fully
explained, the company is giving the day off but requesting employees
come in and work, at bonus pay of course, because of the holiday. The
person because of an inherent since of a possibility the wrong message
is being sent, spoke to the head of the company. The head of the
company echoed the same concern, but said the decision came from
'higher up's in the company. Though disappointed, with the seeming no-
decision for awareness, this friend will ask those who desire, to come
in, not penalize those who choose not to, and cover for those who do
not come in, without personal additional compensation.
We expect immediate change, and while at times this may be possible,
more often than not chance moves more like a glacier than the wind.
Is a lack of change a valid reason for not seeking the furtherance of
a fair and just society? "God drew me up from the desolate pit, out
of the miry bog, and set my feet upon a rock." Dr. King was a solid
biblical scholar and would have recognized those words from psalm
forty. The following quotes are from the heart of Dr. King's
philosophy. The first will be heard tomorrow , the second probably
not. Both are essential. "I have a dream that my four little
children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged
by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."
"I refuse to accept the cynical notion that nation after nation must
spiral down a militaristic stairway into the hell of nuclear
destruction. I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will
have the final word in reality."
I was nineteen years old when Dr. King was assassinated. This
birthday would have been his eighty-second, yet his thoughts, dreams
and hopes seem so young and fresh. Which would seem to mean that the
foundation is still there, but there is much work left to do.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA, 91601
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA, 91601
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Rest in the Spirit
REFLECTIONS
January 9, 2011
January 9, 2011
According to Dr. Marion Soards of The Presbyterian Theological Seminary of Kentucky, Matthew 3:13-17 completes the previous twelve verses of the chapter. The professor states that the work and ministry of John the Baptist is completed in these brief four verses which deal with the Baptism of Jesus and end the chapter. John you will remember is out in the desert preaching a faith of repentance. Repentance is a spiritual u-turn, where once we recognize we are lost, the spirit leads us in our return to God.
In this passage we find John preaching and Baptizing in the Jordan River. As Jesus approaches we can assume they greet each other. After all they were cousins. The more profound issue is telling John that He has come to be Baptized by him. After some protest John agrees. As Jesus rose from the water the Spirit descended on Him and a voice from heaven spoke saying, “This is my son, the Beloved, with whom I am well pleased.”
The description of this event is sometimes referred to as a theophany which is visible manifestation of a deity. Another term often used is Epiphany which refers to spiritual enlightenment. Here both terms would be appropriate. The first twelve verses of Matthew 3 quote Isaiah, Zechariah, and Malachi along with II Kings. The work of John most literally the one of his being “a voice crying in the wilderness,” was fore told in these texts. Here when John protests against Jesus’ request is told, that is part of how the work and word of God is to be proclaimed.
The greater message for us as modern believers is twofold. First that Jesus honored and respected the ministry of others. Here he shows his respect for the ministry of John. In chapter ten of Matthew, Jesus demonstrates his confidence in the disciples when he commissions them for ministry. Then in chapter twenty-six a women led by the spirit anoints his head with expensive oil. When his followers complain of it as wasteful, Jesus calls it a beautiful act. Finally the passage tells us that as spiritual beings, we are called to be attuned to the work of the Holy Spirit; as a source of strength, as a guide, and especially as one who will nudge us in the work and way of our ministry.
Dr. Joey K. McDonald
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
First United Methodist Church
4832 Tujunga Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91601
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