ICE BUCKET CHALLENGE
You would have to live under a rock to not know about the ALS "bucket challenge". From celebrities to young children hundreds of my friends and co-workers have put themselves before us on social media with their "ice bucket challenge". This challenge actually began in frigid weather and ended when the heat and humidity of summer made it a refreshing treat. Some of the challenges were funny, some were ridiculous and some actually touch the heart. Those who did it in honor (of someone who is currently suffering this dreaded disease) or in memory of a loved one who succumbed to the disease moved me the most. Lately I have dreaded looking at Facebook as every other post is yet another one trying to "draw attention" It was mostly about "look at me" and now I challenge _____ who has "24 hours to comply!" What "moved me" were those who were heartfelt about the disease and really wanting to make a difference. Although we can justify this as a "worldwide trend" which raised a lot of money for a good cause, I wonder if other worthwhile causes could receive such notoriety if not started by celebrity sanction. I do fully support the difference this will make in finding a treatment and possible and end to this horrendous horrid disease. My prayer is all those who are now suffering from this diagnosis are heartened with some sense of hope.
One can only wonder what Summer 2015 will bring...
Thursday, September 4, 2014
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Tire with a Nail
I do not have good car tire experiences. In fact, my regular mechanic tells everyone who will listen, "this is the lady with all the tire issues". Suffice it to say, if there is a nail, screw or other puncturing object my tires can find it. Last spring
while visiting my daughter for the birth of her second child I was ready to leave for home (a 3 1/2 hour trip) when I noticed my car's left rear tire was critically low on air. Asking my son in law if he had a pump, or where could I go near by his reply was, "well there is bound to be a Quick Trip somewhere on your route. He obviously did not have the same anxiety about traveling 70+mph on a highway with a bad tire that I did. I turned my GPS on and it led me to a Phillips 66 station which offered free air for 50 cents a shot. My experience has taught me to always carry a gauge and how to use it, the tire read 20 lbs. Filling my tire to 35 lbs. I prayed that somehow it would at least carry me a ways before it would need more air. Every bump, every piece of rough roadbed caused me to cringe but finally I worked up the nerve to travel at road speed. About halfway through my trip I stopped for a cold drink and a cautious look at my sick tire. It was still holding firm. I was amazed and pleased but still not confident it would last all the way home. Those final miles were excruciatingly tense.
The next day I drove to the mechanic who only shook his head and said he would check it out and try to repair it. About an hour later there was a call that indeed a screw had found its way in and the tire was repairable. Coming to pick it up I was told that heat and speed of my travel had actually saved my tire. The expansion from the heat acted as a seal and kept tire inflated.
Now anyone who knows anything about "physics" or cars could have figured that out. But for me it was a paralyzing fear of what "could happen" if the tire began to go flat while I was traveling. Most of us live our lives depending on all the systems of life working the way they should. We don't want to think that something may interfere with our smooth roadbed. There will always be the occasional "nail" in our roadbed. Sometimes it will take quick fix and we are on our way again. And there will be the time when it's a deeper issue requiring a more serious and perhaps even ongoing repair. The lesson for me is that I was worried and stressed out about "what could" go wrong instead of living with an issue that would need my attention but was holding. My faith is like this sometimes. Everything goes along and then the "nail" appears and I begin to fret and stew without approaching God for the help, support and calm I need.
Next time I will put air in the tire or call for help. I'll leave the "hours of worry" for something God can't handle........oh, that's right God can handle it all.
while visiting my daughter for the birth of her second child I was ready to leave for home (a 3 1/2 hour trip) when I noticed my car's left rear tire was critically low on air. Asking my son in law if he had a pump, or where could I go near by his reply was, "well there is bound to be a Quick Trip somewhere on your route. He obviously did not have the same anxiety about traveling 70+mph on a highway with a bad tire that I did. I turned my GPS on and it led me to a Phillips 66 station which offered free air for 50 cents a shot. My experience has taught me to always carry a gauge and how to use it, the tire read 20 lbs. Filling my tire to 35 lbs. I prayed that somehow it would at least carry me a ways before it would need more air. Every bump, every piece of rough roadbed caused me to cringe but finally I worked up the nerve to travel at road speed. About halfway through my trip I stopped for a cold drink and a cautious look at my sick tire. It was still holding firm. I was amazed and pleased but still not confident it would last all the way home. Those final miles were excruciatingly tense.
The next day I drove to the mechanic who only shook his head and said he would check it out and try to repair it. About an hour later there was a call that indeed a screw had found its way in and the tire was repairable. Coming to pick it up I was told that heat and speed of my travel had actually saved my tire. The expansion from the heat acted as a seal and kept tire inflated.
Now anyone who knows anything about "physics" or cars could have figured that out. But for me it was a paralyzing fear of what "could happen" if the tire began to go flat while I was traveling. Most of us live our lives depending on all the systems of life working the way they should. We don't want to think that something may interfere with our smooth roadbed. There will always be the occasional "nail" in our roadbed. Sometimes it will take quick fix and we are on our way again. And there will be the time when it's a deeper issue requiring a more serious and perhaps even ongoing repair. The lesson for me is that I was worried and stressed out about "what could" go wrong instead of living with an issue that would need my attention but was holding. My faith is like this sometimes. Everything goes along and then the "nail" appears and I begin to fret and stew without approaching God for the help, support and calm I need.
Next time I will put air in the tire or call for help. I'll leave the "hours of worry" for something God can't handle........oh, that's right God can handle it all.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
God on Craig's List?
I believe it, God must be on Craig's list. No not as an item or wanting to sell something...well maybe. No God appeared to be active on Craig's list when I was teaching Local License Pastors at the seminary. Teaching about Worship and Sacraments I planned to celebrate communion with all the liturgy and tradition the "Early Church" would have used. This included sung responses and hymns. We were meeting in a sterile classroom so how could enhance the setting to become Holy? The remarkable group of students enthusiastically volunteered to learn the musical responses and agreed we would sing and praise God making the Table and Service come alive with spirit if not atmosphere. One of the students, a young pastor from Iowa volunteered he often played the trumpet in his worship services and although he had not brought his trumpet he had seen one on Craig's list for $50 and he would be willing explore purchasing it for our service.
This in itself amazed me that this pastor would take the time to even consider looking into purchasing the instrument and be willing to arrange to pick it up. He did just that, the trumpet was not too far from the school and in excellent condition. The day arrived to celebrate the Eucharist and we began with the full service of Invitation, Confession, Offering, Sermon and the Great Thanksgiving. As each musical response began the trumpet played beautifully and we were lifted to new spiritual heights. The hymns too came alive with the trumpet accompanying us. It was a great day and we all felt we had truly communed with our Savior.
The young pastor confessed he had never considered bringing his trumpet nor had he any thought of playing one while in school. Something just nudged him one evening to look at Craig's list for fun and the trumpet for sale caught his eye....and his heart.
I can't say God hangs around on Craig's list, but then again God works in mysterious ways sometimes. Praying you have a blessed day and will occasionally check out Craig's list, who knows?
This in itself amazed me that this pastor would take the time to even consider looking into purchasing the instrument and be willing to arrange to pick it up. He did just that, the trumpet was not too far from the school and in excellent condition. The day arrived to celebrate the Eucharist and we began with the full service of Invitation, Confession, Offering, Sermon and the Great Thanksgiving. As each musical response began the trumpet played beautifully and we were lifted to new spiritual heights. The hymns too came alive with the trumpet accompanying us. It was a great day and we all felt we had truly communed with our Savior.
The young pastor confessed he had never considered bringing his trumpet nor had he any thought of playing one while in school. Something just nudged him one evening to look at Craig's list for fun and the trumpet for sale caught his eye....and his heart.
I can't say God hangs around on Craig's list, but then again God works in mysterious ways sometimes. Praying you have a blessed day and will occasionally check out Craig's list, who knows?
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Don't Rush Me
"Don't rush me" was my signature saying from the time I was very young. With two older brothers who knew what they wanted and how they wanted it, I found making decisions took some thought. This "pause" on life drove them crazy. Which now that I look at it from an adult perspective was part of the plan. Of course there are times in life when we have to "decide" and then just go for it.
There are a lot of "decisions" happening this time of year. Graduates are considering what school or job they will pursue. Couples are saying "I will" to a lifetime of relationship. Students are anticipating a summer off and what they will do with all their "free time". Many people move during this time of year which gives them time to re-evaluate what is important to live with. Farmers are planting what they have been planning all winter and are hopeful this year will be a more productive year. With spring brings transition and newness of life. With spring brings a feeling of hope.
And yet, with all the anticipated, looking forward to the changes we feel a little anxiousness, a little "Don't rush me" kind of feeling. We know with every change there will be things we like and things we don't. Sometimes like the Israelites in the wilderness we will be tempted to want to "go back" because the "way is too hard"
I listened to a sermon the other day called "Move On". The story used was a couple who had gone to the Oregon and were hiking on a trail filled with numerous waterfalls. Most of the waterfalls were easily seen or reached from the main trail which was flat and easily traveled. But one particular one which was supposed to be spectacular was a little harder to reach. The couple decided to hike the trail to this particular waterfall but the trail became rougher with more incline and twists and turns. Tired they were ready to turn back when a man came toward them obviously returning from their intended destination. "How much further they inquired?" The man from another country (probably German) spoke slowly and smiled, "It's a little further. The way is hard but it is worth it."
After this encounter the couple decided they would go on. Indeed the way was harder. The path turned rocky, steeper and narrow. Finally, tired and winded they heard in the distance the "falls" When they walked a bit further and came to the opening where they saw the most incredible site. The falls was the most magnificent and powerful they had ever seen. They stood in the incredible beauty, awe and power and felt the hand of God upon them. Their eyes, ears and hearts experienced God's majestic creation and they were filled with a kind of joy they couldn't describe in mere words.
When the couple returned home they kept saying to each other " what if we had stopped and turned back? What we would have missed." When you find yourself in transition and the way is getting hard, may you hear God whisper, " It's a litte further. The way is hard but it will be worth it."
God, the next time I say " don't rush me" please remind me "it will be worth it" Amen.
There are a lot of "decisions" happening this time of year. Graduates are considering what school or job they will pursue. Couples are saying "I will" to a lifetime of relationship. Students are anticipating a summer off and what they will do with all their "free time". Many people move during this time of year which gives them time to re-evaluate what is important to live with. Farmers are planting what they have been planning all winter and are hopeful this year will be a more productive year. With spring brings transition and newness of life. With spring brings a feeling of hope.
And yet, with all the anticipated, looking forward to the changes we feel a little anxiousness, a little "Don't rush me" kind of feeling. We know with every change there will be things we like and things we don't. Sometimes like the Israelites in the wilderness we will be tempted to want to "go back" because the "way is too hard"
I listened to a sermon the other day called "Move On". The story used was a couple who had gone to the Oregon and were hiking on a trail filled with numerous waterfalls. Most of the waterfalls were easily seen or reached from the main trail which was flat and easily traveled. But one particular one which was supposed to be spectacular was a little harder to reach. The couple decided to hike the trail to this particular waterfall but the trail became rougher with more incline and twists and turns. Tired they were ready to turn back when a man came toward them obviously returning from their intended destination. "How much further they inquired?" The man from another country (probably German) spoke slowly and smiled, "It's a little further. The way is hard but it is worth it."
After this encounter the couple decided they would go on. Indeed the way was harder. The path turned rocky, steeper and narrow. Finally, tired and winded they heard in the distance the "falls" When they walked a bit further and came to the opening where they saw the most incredible site. The falls was the most magnificent and powerful they had ever seen. They stood in the incredible beauty, awe and power and felt the hand of God upon them. Their eyes, ears and hearts experienced God's majestic creation and they were filled with a kind of joy they couldn't describe in mere words.
When the couple returned home they kept saying to each other " what if we had stopped and turned back? What we would have missed." When you find yourself in transition and the way is getting hard, may you hear God whisper, " It's a litte further. The way is hard but it will be worth it."
God, the next time I say " don't rush me" please remind me "it will be worth it" Amen
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Dove of Peace Looks Like a Small Boy with a Sign
On Monday, April 15th known as "Patriot's Day" in Boston the annual Boston Marathon took place and Martin Richard stood in the cheering crowd near the finish line. Can't you imagine this eight year old jumping, cheering, High -Fiving anyone nearby as each contestant crossed the finish line? His dad had just finished the grueling run and Martin had congratulated him. While waiting for his dad to return to the family the first explosion went off. The day begun in joyful anticipation, punctuated by victory now covered the earth with smokey disaster.
The world watched in horror and then grief for the pain inflicted on so many, on Boston. Instantly because of our information technological age we began seeing images of those running toward the wounded. First responders appeared in remarkable numbers, others began to reach out and get the injured to help, to hold those who shook with fear and shock. Out of the ashes rose life and affirmation that God was is and will be with us. Out of the horror arose a God that cannot be moved. We are assured God is present in all our storms of life.
Be Still and know that He is God. Be strong and courageous for the Lord is with you. God is our refuge and strength, our very present help in time of trouble. Be still and know that He is God...
Thank you Martin for believing in peace for proclaiming the violence must cease. Thank you Lord for your grace, compassion and mercy in Martin's life and now in his death. Help us finally to see that peace begins with us and can wait no longer.
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Melissa's Tree
Melissa, my husband's first wife, childhood sweetheart was taken by disease in the prime of life . Her death left two daughters 17 and 21, both whom attended the high school which abuts the family property. Since the Key family was intricately involved in the high school life, especially band and foreign language club the school proposed planting a tree. The tree they planted was a flowering crab apple tree ; it was and still is beautiful. Because of its fragile wood the Midwest storms have taken their toll over the past 24 years. Their is one broken branch which hangs by a thread but continues to produce flowers and fruit each year. The tree began to look ragged and old even before this past summers drought. We watered it regularly in hopes it would hang on.
This past year we decided to hang a bird feeder to specifically attract songbirds. In the beginning we did battle with squirrels who of course found a way to hang upside down and eat. Then out came the artillery bird feeder which was weight sensitive allowing only the smallest birds to light and eat. Faithfully each day through drought of summer, a dry fall and harsh winter my husband without fail fills the bird feeder each day. Throughout the snows of winter we were blessed by numerous birds from chickadees, various wrens, even flickers who wintered over. Of course some feed inevitably falls to the ground and the cardinals and squirrels squabble over the fallen seeds. Lately we even have two hen wild turkeys pecking away of an evening.
The most amazing thing about all of this is the tree has new life. It's as if by attracting the song birds resurrection has occurred. Melissa who was so compassionate about the fragil and the weak would be pleased to see her tree providing shelter and nourishment for such. We will continue to do our best to keep this sanctuary healthy and safe and attracking all those creatures who come. And yes, even if those pesky squirrels and turkeys find crumbs we will allow it.
After all we are called to be stewards of God's creation. And we are the ones blessed by it. Thanks be to God!
This past year we decided to hang a bird feeder to specifically attract songbirds. In the beginning we did battle with squirrels who of course found a way to hang upside down and eat. Then out came the artillery bird feeder which was weight sensitive allowing only the smallest birds to light and eat. Faithfully each day through drought of summer, a dry fall and harsh winter my husband without fail fills the bird feeder each day. Throughout the snows of winter we were blessed by numerous birds from chickadees, various wrens, even flickers who wintered over. Of course some feed inevitably falls to the ground and the cardinals and squirrels squabble over the fallen seeds. Lately we even have two hen wild turkeys pecking away of an evening.
The most amazing thing about all of this is the tree has new life. It's as if by attracting the song birds resurrection has occurred. Melissa who was so compassionate about the fragil and the weak would be pleased to see her tree providing shelter and nourishment for such. We will continue to do our best to keep this sanctuary healthy and safe and attracking all those creatures who come. And yes, even if those pesky squirrels and turkeys find crumbs we will allow it.
After all we are called to be stewards of God's creation. And we are the ones blessed by it. Thanks be to God!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
It's Me O Lord
I cannot live without reading this each day. The world is often so harsh and I find myself becoming like it. The news media keeps us hyper-cynical and entertainment tries to relax all sense of civility and values. When I find myself speaking, thinking and talking as the world this little sign jolts me back. The essence of compassion reminds us we are all in need of grace, over and over. Let's remember Jesus said "love your neighbor as yourself" Can't we all just get along? Peace and love.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
Silver Parachutes
Like so many I have been lured into the "Hunger Games" following. One of the things most fascinating to me is the "silver parachutes" or gifts to the contestants from their sponsors. Literally fighting for their lives the time comes when a particular thing is needed to continue to survive. The arrival of a "silver parachute" is dependent upon your relationship with those who sponsor you and how appealing your story is to the viewers. In other words if you don't excite and capture the audience you are unlikely to receive much support from a sponsor. It's curious to see how and when contestants garner the favor and receive a gift.
The twist comes when you receive a silver parachute out of pure grace. You did not ask and yet you receive. You might even receive the gift from an unknown source. A loaf of freshly baked bread could come from some act of kindness you have bestowed on another contestant whom you are supposed to be ready to destroy. The story includes the reluctance to befriend knowing in the end only one will remain standing. However the heart pushes some to relent into a giving nature rather than a taking one.
What if we saw our lives as those who were commissioned to do acts of kindness, sending silver parachutes to some we do not know, or even giving away to one who appears unworthy. Is there not one among us who has not longed for some act of grace and kindness thinking surely we are not worthy but want it just the same? And how do we accept a silver parachute from a stranger?
Of course we are not fighting for our lives. Or are we? We follow a God who does not care about ratings or even how we appear on the field. A God whom lovingly accepts us as we are and sends us gifts of grace which surprise us and delight us. We are only asked to love one another the same way. Silver parachutes...how many have you sent lately?
The twist comes when you receive a silver parachute out of pure grace. You did not ask and yet you receive. You might even receive the gift from an unknown source. A loaf of freshly baked bread could come from some act of kindness you have bestowed on another contestant whom you are supposed to be ready to destroy. The story includes the reluctance to befriend knowing in the end only one will remain standing. However the heart pushes some to relent into a giving nature rather than a taking one.
What if we saw our lives as those who were commissioned to do acts of kindness, sending silver parachutes to some we do not know, or even giving away to one who appears unworthy. Is there not one among us who has not longed for some act of grace and kindness thinking surely we are not worthy but want it just the same? And how do we accept a silver parachute from a stranger?
Of course we are not fighting for our lives. Or are we? We follow a God who does not care about ratings or even how we appear on the field. A God whom lovingly accepts us as we are and sends us gifts of grace which surprise us and delight us. We are only asked to love one another the same way. Silver parachutes...how many have you sent lately?
De-Greet
Marketing has always fascinated me. The way minds are manipulated into thinking we should have, look like, and desire a product amazes me. Of course promoting any product or lifestyle changes with the culture and so today's approach differs greatly from when most of us grew up. It doesn't take long for us to become "loyalists" to whatever is the most current and appealing approach. We actually set aside our doubts and cynicism and begin to buy into the lines of losing 30 pounds in 30 days; a green line will lead you to financial peace and prosperity; or you are in "good hands" with insurance even if it sounds like a duck! We can say we are a thinking discerning people until we realize there is a part of us that wants to believe what we are doing or buying is good for us.
Our son-in-law who builds a popular restaurant chain in the St. Louis area recently brought to my attention that not only is it necessary for the customer to be greeted at the door, have an outstanding server for your meal, but as you are leaving you should receive a "De-Greet". This is when as you are walking past the host/seating area one or more employees needs to thank you for coming and initiate an invitation to come again. Anyone who has ever been in QT knows the line is "thank you, see you next time". Subtlety we are being programmed to want to return. We leave feeling as if we were wanted and needed and who doesn't get a little euphoria out of that sensation?
All of this has made me rethink how we promote our product of "Good News?" in the church. For today's world we certainly spend an enormous amount of time tethered to responsibility and demand by our work, family and even chosen obligations. Technology can reach us at every turn and good news is just not at a premium. We are greeted (perhaps) when we enter our churches. If per chance however we are a guest probably over greeted. and by the time we sit at the table (pew or chair) waiting for that friendly server, all we usually get is an opportunity to give money. Depending on the church the guest may or may not know how to participate in all the rituals and so they wait to be fed. When the meal of church is over they may get the "De-greet" or simply be left to leave with their own thoughts and impressions.
I wonder if as believers of the Good News we might adopt the attitude that everyone who enters our place of worship needs a genuine welcome, deserves a great meal with the best server (Jesus like), and leaves feeling as if it has been the churches honor to have you as a guest and they truly want you to come again. Every time someone feels the love of Christ offered it makes it easier to want to be a part of that place (body) . Every time we share the love of Christ, another heart readies itself for the best gift of all, adoption into the kingdom of God. Pretty simple huh?
Our son-in-law who builds a popular restaurant chain in the St. Louis area recently brought to my attention that not only is it necessary for the customer to be greeted at the door, have an outstanding server for your meal, but as you are leaving you should receive a "De-Greet". This is when as you are walking past the host/seating area one or more employees needs to thank you for coming and initiate an invitation to come again. Anyone who has ever been in QT knows the line is "thank you, see you next time". Subtlety we are being programmed to want to return. We leave feeling as if we were wanted and needed and who doesn't get a little euphoria out of that sensation?
All of this has made me rethink how we promote our product of "Good News?" in the church. For today's world we certainly spend an enormous amount of time tethered to responsibility and demand by our work, family and even chosen obligations. Technology can reach us at every turn and good news is just not at a premium. We are greeted (perhaps) when we enter our churches. If per chance however we are a guest probably over greeted. and by the time we sit at the table (pew or chair) waiting for that friendly server, all we usually get is an opportunity to give money. Depending on the church the guest may or may not know how to participate in all the rituals and so they wait to be fed. When the meal of church is over they may get the "De-greet" or simply be left to leave with their own thoughts and impressions.
I wonder if as believers of the Good News we might adopt the attitude that everyone who enters our place of worship needs a genuine welcome, deserves a great meal with the best server (Jesus like), and leaves feeling as if it has been the churches honor to have you as a guest and they truly want you to come again. Every time someone feels the love of Christ offered it makes it easier to want to be a part of that place (body) . Every time we share the love of Christ, another heart readies itself for the best gift of all, adoption into the kingdom of God. Pretty simple huh?
Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Bringing the House Down
I have always wanted to say I was able the "bring the house down" with my preaching. Actually that is my ego talking and in my heart of hearts I know it's what God has to say that is important. However, still there is a small voice which whispers wouldn't be great if just once.... Well, it finally happened I brought the house down while preaching. But true to God's sense of humor not exactly as I had hoped. Preaching away my peripheral vision caught.sight of something flying toward my head. Without thinking I quickly stepped aside just in time to miss a flying piece of ceiling tile. The congregation gasped and began to shout "what is God trying to tell you?!" I thought to myself what is God trying to tell YOU (the listeners). Instead I gathered myself together, picked up my stand and notes and said, "I'm going to move down with you (the congregation) which I did. Later I quipped that perhaps next week I would bring a "hard hat" just in case. We all had a good laugh, even God I suspect.
The Lord has a way of bringing me in. Not that God is in the "tile" business but I think situations sometimes cause us to rethink about who is in charge of this thing we call "life". While preaching a funeral sermon I thought I have to "keep up with the young pastors" so I pulled out my phone to read the Old Testament reading. The scripture was there and just as I opened my mouth to begin sure enough someone called. There I was with the choice to ANSWER or DECLINE the call, thankfully the phone was on vibrate. My mind raced as I tapped the decline side and continued reading. No one knew but my bell had been rung. Romans 12:3 and James 4:6 are good reminders.
Prayer: Let us humble ourselves before you O God. Let our pride melt away with the morning sun as we give thanks for another day in your kingdom. May I accept your gifts of grace. And may I always seek to serve you with love and life. And oh yes, thank you for your gentle and often humorous reminders.
The Lord has a way of bringing me in. Not that God is in the "tile" business but I think situations sometimes cause us to rethink about who is in charge of this thing we call "life". While preaching a funeral sermon I thought I have to "keep up with the young pastors" so I pulled out my phone to read the Old Testament reading. The scripture was there and just as I opened my mouth to begin sure enough someone called. There I was with the choice to ANSWER or DECLINE the call, thankfully the phone was on vibrate. My mind raced as I tapped the decline side and continued reading. No one knew but my bell had been rung. Romans 12:3 and James 4:6 are good reminders.
Prayer: Let us humble ourselves before you O God. Let our pride melt away with the morning sun as we give thanks for another day in your kingdom. May I accept your gifts of grace. And may I always seek to serve you with love and life. And oh yes, thank you for your gentle and often humorous reminders.
Monday, April 9, 2012
U Turn Ahead
It is my job to bring about change. To open hearts and minds to commit to a new way of following Christ. It is a struggle to change the way we have always done things, to move out of our comfort zone, to reach out to those who do not yet know "the Story". It is especially difficult when you ask someone of several decades of faithful living to move out of pew, in order to sit in a chair; let go of the traditional worship look of paraments and staid altars in exchange for a stage with instruments, (yes, more than one) microphones and funky lighting. How do you give up the "family friendly" style of celebrating birthdays and anniversaries in order to be more welcoming to a generation who would rather listen to a relevant message akin to their everyday experience of technology and sound bytes. A generation who wants to live out loud by faith in action and listen to music which rocks the very foundation of a building. This is the task set before me as a pastor, this is my commitment to bring new souls into the kingdom.
In the midst of leading change, my own home life suddenly made some things very clear. You see my mom decided to uproot 27 years of living in her home and completely change directions. She is making one gigantic U Turn! She is showing all of her family how to be grace-filled when it comes to giving up the "things" she loved and move into a new way of doing life. First went the car and now the house. She decided her "driving days" were over for the safety of others. And she is tired of being in charge of all the dealings of a house and lawn, so the house is on the market. The family has been called in to claim anything we want or need. Hundreds of sacks of papers, books, and things are being thrown away, given away or sold for a pittance in a garage sale. Every time a special memory is handed to her to decide what to do she looks at it and says, "now that was a wonderful time," kisses it and throws it away. She is letting go so she can move forward. She is hoping another family will enjoy and love her home in "their way". She is ready to move into a retirement home where she can form new relationships and never have to eat alone again. And she is 90!
This has made me take a close look at what holds me back from moving forward. How can I be a faithful servant of Christ and stay clutching to what is comfortable, a good memory or is just the way I like to do it? Where would we be if the disciples had simply gone back to Galilee with broken hearts and returned to their former lives? Where would we be if Paul had stayed in only one town? Where would we be if Wesley had never ventured out into the fields? No where I think.
Oh my, I see a U Turn coming.
In the midst of leading change, my own home life suddenly made some things very clear. You see my mom decided to uproot 27 years of living in her home and completely change directions. She is making one gigantic U Turn! She is showing all of her family how to be grace-filled when it comes to giving up the "things" she loved and move into a new way of doing life. First went the car and now the house. She decided her "driving days" were over for the safety of others. And she is tired of being in charge of all the dealings of a house and lawn, so the house is on the market. The family has been called in to claim anything we want or need. Hundreds of sacks of papers, books, and things are being thrown away, given away or sold for a pittance in a garage sale. Every time a special memory is handed to her to decide what to do she looks at it and says, "now that was a wonderful time," kisses it and throws it away. She is letting go so she can move forward. She is hoping another family will enjoy and love her home in "their way". She is ready to move into a retirement home where she can form new relationships and never have to eat alone again. And she is 90!
This has made me take a close look at what holds me back from moving forward. How can I be a faithful servant of Christ and stay clutching to what is comfortable, a good memory or is just the way I like to do it? Where would we be if the disciples had simply gone back to Galilee with broken hearts and returned to their former lives? Where would we be if Paul had stayed in only one town? Where would we be if Wesley had never ventured out into the fields? No where I think.
Oh my, I see a U Turn coming.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
My First Prayer
I was six and in the first grade. We had just moved from Louisiana to Missouri and few understand my southern drawl. Of course being a "preacher's kid" I found myself in a new church with a new Sunday School teacher and being shy I wondered how all this was going to work out. But there she was a small thin woman called Mrs.White who talked with a southern accent! If I had been older I would have said "Praise God!" but as a child all I knew was at least she would understand me. Mrs. White not only taught our Sunday School class she led the Elementary Sunday School opening each Sunday. One of her requirements was to learn the "Lord's Prayer". Now this was WAY back when first graders were barely able to read anything other than Dick, Jane or Spot so learning a big long prayer meant listening and remembering. Each week we would repeat more and more of the prayer until we could finally say it along with the rest of the older kids in the Sunday morning opening. Now you are probably thinking kids are like sponges and can memorize easily. After all there is little stuff to clutter their sweet minds. True, but Mrs.White made a big impression when she said this is something you will use for the rest of your life. She didn't spend a lot of time telling us what it all meant. It was Jesus' prayer and everyone just needed to know it. THEN I discovered the same prayer the children were saying was said in church each Sunday by the adults. I remember thinking Wow!, even they have to say it!
I am so thankful for Mrs. White; she loved me enough to teach me a life long prayer which has sustained me for all my life. I wonder what I have taught that will last that long? Maybe we all are supposed to keep teaching, praying and loving. Sounds like someone I call Jesus.
I am so thankful for Mrs. White; she loved me enough to teach me a life long prayer which has sustained me for all my life. I wonder what I have taught that will last that long? Maybe we all are supposed to keep teaching, praying and loving. Sounds like someone I call Jesus.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Suffice it to say....
Suffice it to say we do not have visitors at our house very often. Seeing a truck parked at the end of the drive on Monday and coming home from a less than stellar day I was curious. Barely able to get my car off the street I watched a young man hurry toward me. "Ma'am, I think I have some really bad news." My mind raced through thoughts of what in the world does this stranger know and what could possibly have happened? The next thing he said was, " I think I hit your dog" He pointed to our house, "that's where you live isn't it?" "Well yes, but our dog is never out without a leash" Then as if time stood still I recalled another windy day like this one when the wind blew our front door open and Shadow slipped out only to meet a horrific end. Quickly I reassured myself surely this would not happen again. The young man spoke rapidly, "is your dog brown and white?" A feeling of relief swept over me and then a second feeling of sadness that this was some one's pet. The young man kept saying "I didn't know what to do, he just ran out so fast and I have my three year old daughter with me so I parked here so she wouldn't see.
"Let's take a look, are you sure he is dead?" I asked. We walked down the hill and I could see a half grown springer spaniel pup lying in the street. The street is four lanes and always very busy with cars doing well over the 40mph speed limit. I walked out into the street and asked the young man to watch for traffic. I bent down and could see a sweet pup had made a serious mistake. You see our property is surrounded by woods and no doubt the pup was out for a hunt on this windy day when he suddenly decided he better get home and ran into the street with no thought of the danger. Now he laid still with just a red collar, no name, no way of knowing who might be his owners.
What happened next was what causes me to share this. I reached down to pick the pup up, he was still warm. I stroked him gently and then began to put my arms under him to lift him and place him in the grass next to the sidewalk. When I began to lift him I was not lifting him alone. There was definitely something else helping me. I felt a sense of peace pulse through me and my mind filled with the thought this is a transition somewhere between life and death. You might be thinking this was just an animal, but I believe the Creator God loves all living things. And I am not here to say anything about where animals go when they die but I do believe I was there at the right time and had help beyond me.
I commend the young man for staying and caring. He was devastated this happened and my husband and I tried to reassure him this was just an accident. My husband moved the dog to the curb so anyone looking would see him. He spoke quite awhile to the young man assuring him he did nothing wrong but thanking him for staying. My husband lovingly said to me, "I think the pup was treated well in death" That made me feel good. My day had oddly turned around, still sad about the pup but thankful I was the one (with a little help) who lifted him up and carried him to a place where he could lay in peace.
Amazing how God can work you into His plan.
PS The pup was gone the next morning. I grieve for the family but hope they somehow know "he was treated well in death".
"Let's take a look, are you sure he is dead?" I asked. We walked down the hill and I could see a half grown springer spaniel pup lying in the street. The street is four lanes and always very busy with cars doing well over the 40mph speed limit. I walked out into the street and asked the young man to watch for traffic. I bent down and could see a sweet pup had made a serious mistake. You see our property is surrounded by woods and no doubt the pup was out for a hunt on this windy day when he suddenly decided he better get home and ran into the street with no thought of the danger. Now he laid still with just a red collar, no name, no way of knowing who might be his owners.
What happened next was what causes me to share this. I reached down to pick the pup up, he was still warm. I stroked him gently and then began to put my arms under him to lift him and place him in the grass next to the sidewalk. When I began to lift him I was not lifting him alone. There was definitely something else helping me. I felt a sense of peace pulse through me and my mind filled with the thought this is a transition somewhere between life and death. You might be thinking this was just an animal, but I believe the Creator God loves all living things. And I am not here to say anything about where animals go when they die but I do believe I was there at the right time and had help beyond me.
I commend the young man for staying and caring. He was devastated this happened and my husband and I tried to reassure him this was just an accident. My husband moved the dog to the curb so anyone looking would see him. He spoke quite awhile to the young man assuring him he did nothing wrong but thanking him for staying. My husband lovingly said to me, "I think the pup was treated well in death" That made me feel good. My day had oddly turned around, still sad about the pup but thankful I was the one (with a little help) who lifted him up and carried him to a place where he could lay in peace.
Amazing how God can work you into His plan.
PS The pup was gone the next morning. I grieve for the family but hope they somehow know "he was treated well in death".
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Angels in Wal-Mart?
Are there angels in Wal-Mart? If you would ask me I would probably say not likely. Now I'm not so sure. We were doing our weekly shopping on Friday when I ran into a bunch of "throw rugs" in one of those "middle of the aisle boxes" that seem to say this is a "real deal!" Before I could pass by I remembered someone mentioning my office at St. Mark's with its new tile floor could use a rug to help warm up the environment. Now here I was standing in front of several reasonably priced "throw rugs" (who ever thought up that name?) And so I chose a multi-colored piece reasoning how anyone could ever match the tan color of the tile would be impossible. Then a solid black rug caught my eye. It looked rich and lush and I began to ponder my choice. (a woman's prerogative) My wise husband suggested the black would look the best. He has a good eye for this sort of thing so I decided, yes, the black would do nicely. Just as I picked it up and put it into the basket a young man came over and said, "Did you know the rug has skulls and cross bones carved into it?" "Really, are you kidding?" I answered. My next retort was, "Do you think it would go in a pastor's office, I am one you know," I said smiling. The young man just got an odd look on his face and stumbled away. Looking more closely at the rug we discovered, yes, you could see the skull and cross bones faintly below carved into the fabric.
Needless to say I did not take the rug. And I was grateful to have been warned. We laughed at the thought of me taking it to the church and unrolling it before my desk in the brand newly remodeled office only to see the surprise the rug contained. You might think little of this except I felt that "feeling" I get once in a while when the message being delivered is bigger than the words spoken. And in the blink of an eye the young man was no where to be found when we looked around, another confirmation this was something unusual. Now, I don't think the message had anything to do with saving me from making a decorating error. I believe the lesson was sometimes we need to look closely and carefully at where we are headed and what or whom we are taking with us. The "feeling" was spiritual and my husband felt it too. Sometimes God speaks to us boldly by saying, "Stop and look carefully, include me in your decisions big and small.
Okay, God I'm listening, even in Wal-Mart.
Needless to say I did not take the rug. And I was grateful to have been warned. We laughed at the thought of me taking it to the church and unrolling it before my desk in the brand newly remodeled office only to see the surprise the rug contained. You might think little of this except I felt that "feeling" I get once in a while when the message being delivered is bigger than the words spoken. And in the blink of an eye the young man was no where to be found when we looked around, another confirmation this was something unusual. Now, I don't think the message had anything to do with saving me from making a decorating error. I believe the lesson was sometimes we need to look closely and carefully at where we are headed and what or whom we are taking with us. The "feeling" was spiritual and my husband felt it too. Sometimes God speaks to us boldly by saying, "Stop and look carefully, include me in your decisions big and small.
Okay, God I'm listening, even in Wal-Mart.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
The Kitchen
Our kitchen is old and sorely in need of a remodel. However it an unwritten rule that every time someone is invited for supper regardless of where you plan to eat everyone ends up in the kitchen! The kitchen seems to always be the heart of the home, a place where meals are fixed, families and company congregate, serious discussions are held, homework is completed, and a sort of sensory DNA is imparted to multiple generations through smell, taste and tradition. As a child I recall sitting in the kitchen every evening watching my mom fix supper and just talking. Those talks were foundational to whom I have become. Wisdom came from my questions about life and the conversational answers given. The conversations around the dinner table also were nightly a debate over history, politics and ethics. My father and brothers kept the conversation lively to say the least. And despite the heated voices from time to time everyone left the table with much to consider and no one was mad.
Today we might try to convince ourselves that technology is the most important component of our lives but I would offer this thought. How many of us can find a sense of joy and connection when we think of those times spent in the kitchen? Holidays are started and ended there, company and family gathers there, the smell of mom's or grandma's special dish linger in our memory and we equate our time spent there as valuable to us and others.
It all makes me hopeful that in God's house there is a BIG kitchen. Do you suppose?
Today we might try to convince ourselves that technology is the most important component of our lives but I would offer this thought. How many of us can find a sense of joy and connection when we think of those times spent in the kitchen? Holidays are started and ended there, company and family gathers there, the smell of mom's or grandma's special dish linger in our memory and we equate our time spent there as valuable to us and others.
It all makes me hopeful that in God's house there is a BIG kitchen. Do you suppose?
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