Better than we realized

Thoughts from the fictional characters Dan Poole and Neil Edward Oliver (THE LAST WORD AND THE WORD AFTER THAT - p.68):

"We have to tell people the good news... the good news that God is even better than we thought, that the gospel is better than we realized. That their thoughts of God have been too small, too unworthy... that the truly good news is bigger and better and more powerful than the conventional news they've been believing and preaching."

"No thought of God that you can ever have is too good. Nothing about God is too good to be true. You are safe when your thoughts of God grow greater. Don't be afraid."

"Don't be afraid." I have to admit, sometimes I'm afraid my ideas about grace are too good to be true. And what if they're not... Hmm.

Good thoughts in this chapter. I needed good thoughts. I decided to try something different for lunch today. I tried to make tomato soup, and I think I ruined two pans in the process. :( Did you know you can't put those plastic microwave pans on the stovetop? Mmm, burningn plastic. Gosh it stinks! My wife is way smarter than I ever realized; and way too good to me (I love you, dear).

Peace. Revolution.

The Bible in school

MSN reports that Georgia becomes the first state to approve the use of the Bible as a textbook in public schools. It would be used in elective courses. See the
Video here.

This is one of those things that "appears" like a good thing for Christians, but why is it that these sorts of things often turn out bad? Perhaps we should be just as concerned about taking Jesus wherever we go too (as our guide, rather than our mantra).

Short-term missions

A great article on short-term mission trips from Keith Drury. He says, "Short-term missions. Some have referred to it as the “amateurization of mission.” Others have labeled it “drive-by missions.” Read the rest of the article HERE.

Sometimes you feel like a nut...

One of those days today. I finally broke down and went to the doctor. Couldn't stand the pain anymore. He put me on the disabled list. I have some kind of infection - in a male sorta part. If you're a guy... imagine being kicked between the legs. Yeah, that's what the doctor visit felt like. So, I'm on antibiotics and am supposed to rest for 10 days. No more running, walking, lifting, etc.

Ha! And I have a 50th anniversaray/renewal of vows party Saturday; Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Egg Hunt, Easter Sunday; our Regional Conference; neice graduating in Illinois; niece getting married in Illinois; nephew graduating in Minnesota; son graduating in Indiana; daughter maybe moving to Ohio to do an internship... plus just the usual stuff to do over the next couple months. Arghh.

To top the day off... I had a 16 year-old boy from my church who had heart surgery today. It didn't work. Man... what a sad moment that was... when the doctor came in and broke the news to the parents, both sets of grandparents, aunt, and Jane and I.

I wish I had some stronger medicine. Cause I still feel my you-know-whats pretty bad. Tomorrow I plan to lay around and read; lots of prayer; wonder...

Sometimes you don't...

Peace and Revol... Revolution (softly).

The Last Word and the Word After That

This has been another good read from McLaren so far. Only up to p.43. It is amazing the similarities between Dan Poole and myself. Not so much in that my church is treating me like this, but similar thoughts and whatnot. Even the problems his daughter is having. My daughter has had similar problems at the "christian" university she attends (Huntington U.). McLaren even quotes one of her prof's (John Sanders - well, he used to work there; until being asked to leave. Another story).

At any rate, some things that stuck out today:
p.27 - "What was happening to my conservative wife? Was she changing her views on homosexuality, or was her kindness making those views irrelevant?" Ooh. Nice.

p.7 (great quote from Mere Christianity) - "The world does not consist of 100% Christians and 100% non-Christians. There are people who are slowly ceasing to be Christians but who still call themselves by that name... There are other people who are slowly becoming Christians though they do not yet call themselves so..." etc.

I wish this book wasn't fiction; or wasn't so close to truth. It makes it hard to draw lines, you know. But gee, that's kinda how life is, right? Good read.

I read Mike Clawson's review of McLaren's new book, and am looking forward to picking it up. Thanks for the good review, Mike.

peace. Revolution!

Sour milk: the mindless things we do

Jane asked me if I had been using the milk lately. Then she had me smell it. Oops. It was nasty. But I had used it that morning on my oatmeal, and at lunch on my cheerios. I don't usually smell before I pour. I guess it's something I don't think about. When I'm hungry, I just eat.

WHAT ARE SOME THINGS I DO EVERYDAY?
- I get up at 6 am every day (except Sunday's it's 5).
- I eat oatmeal for breakfast almost everyday, made with milk (except on Wednesday when I meet with Tom & Larry, then I have a cinnamon-raisin bagel).
- Coffee every day; usually 3 cups.
- I get online and read the following blogs: mine, the emerging cggc, Andrew Jones, Dan Kimball, Brian Miller, Mike Clawson, Jim Martin, Scot McNight, and usually a few others that I alternate between (whisky prajer); then I often check the FoxSports site.
- I read the bible (currently the CEV).
- I go to my office across the parking lot about 7:30.
- Check my email & phone messages, read from whatever book I'm currently reading, write in my handwritten journal, pray, and usually blog.
- I sit in silence every day until Around the Horn & PTI come on (my 2 favorite t.v. shows).
- I have a bowl of cereal for lunch at 12 (currently cheerios or corn flakes).
- I have a banana around 10 am; an apple around 3 pm; often an Almond Joy sometime.
- I have a cup of tea before going to bed; usually around 11 pm.

Wow, am I a creature of habit or what? Do you think I need to vary my routine? Or maybe that's what keeps me sane. I don't know.

NO ACCOUNTABILITY GROUP TODAY
I didn't meet with Tom & Larry today. Actually, it's usually just Tom and me. Larry used to come, then didn't, lately he's been there a couple of times. Anyway, Tom was gone today - I think on vacation. Hope he's enjoying it. He's seemed a bit down lately. I value his friendship greatly. He's probably my best friend. And Larry... Larry's having church problems. I feel bad for him, and for his church. Anyway, Larry called yesterday and said he was taking the wife out of town for a couple days. So... I had oatmeal in front of the computer today, just like every other day. I NEED to get out and about on Wednesday mornings, if for no other reason than to remind me that other people do exist. Usually we go to the Brew Ha for coffee & a bagel; talk for an hour and half. We have a list of questions we go over. The highlight was the day I fell over backwards in my chair.

Well, it's a slow mind day. I can't run again either. I had just worked back up to 3 1/2 miles again. Something wrong in my groin area (like you wanted to know that!). Hoping it just needs some rest.

Jane just called and Carrie had called her from Florida. The kids are having fun, but running out of money. Glad they're having fun. It is weird without them around.

That's all. Peace. Revolution. Go.

Mark Driscoll apology

Well blow me down! Mark Driscoll has apologized. I count myself among the people offended by this pastor (even though he doesn't know me from Adam). I used to follow him, read him, admire him years ago. But it seemed lately he had become "full of himself" or something. Anyway, he posted an apology on his blog: here.

For what it's worth, I'm glad he did. I wish more pastors like myself had people around us who could lovingly steer us right when we get wrong - without just trying to point out that we're wrong. I hope if someone does point that out to me, that I'm able to respond the way Mark did.

Another act of REVOLUTION! Peace.

Thirst

What do I thirst for? What are my desires? Is it wealth; problem-free living; rest; respect; admiration; bigger house; nicer car; different job; new guitar; more friends...

I don't know. I don't "think" I put these "thirsts" above God. But when I read Psalm 42:

"As the deer pants for streams of water,
so my soul pants for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God, for the living God.
Where can I go and meet with God?"

It makes me wonder... does my soul really thirst for God? And... where can I go and meet with God?

I want to thirst for God; for the living God. I want to meet with You. Rearrange my taste buds; Guard my eyes; Capture my heart... today and every day.

love,
Dan

Peace... and revolution!

Weird Sunday & Missions

Yesterday we were missing our band, so we used the old hymnals and just keyboard. It went okay. I was suprised we had as many people as we did, since so many people were gone on spring break. Carrie & Isaac are in Florida. Hope they're having fun. It was weird not having them around.

What was weirder yesterday though... and I probably shouldn't even write anything. But it just bothers me when we have visitors at church and they criticize what we do. I don't think it was intentional, but it was somewhat rude nonetheless. These people are connected with missions in our denom. I gave them a minute - if there was anything they wanted to share. They used that to express their disappointment in getting people to take short-term missions trips. Then, after the service, they asked if they could re-do our missions bulletin board. Then, in talking later - without realizing it (I think) - they proceeded to criticize much of what we do, and many of the things I represent personally (not in regards to missions, but worship style, war theory, etc.). Man... and they can't figure out why they aren't getting more people involved in their missions stuff. (?)

I have mixed feelings about short-term missions trips. It seems most of the ones our denomination sponsors are "eyewitness type" trips. You go and "see" other countries, and missionaries. I have known people to take these, and it really spurred them on to take giant steps of faith. I have also know maybe more people who went on a trip like this, and not only was it a waste, but for some they think they've "done their duty" now; and it's also a boatload of work for the missionaries; and it basically does nothing AT ALL for the people in the mission field. I am not opposed to short-term mission projects. Going somewhere to actually help someone. I don't know...

Anyway, I didn't like someone coming in and not only trying to teach things I don't necessarily support, but also criticizing me and our church in the process. But, it's over. Just wanted to get that off my chest.

It does make me think though... so what impact is our church having in our "mission field"? Rather than just going to "look", are we DOING anything? Hmm.

Peace. Revolution.

Tools to burn

I made my first candle last night. Jane gave me a candle-making kit for Christmas, and I had yet to use it. I didn't use the wax that came with the kit. I had a bunch of candles in various size jars from church that had been used up, and I melted the wax out of the jars, then poured it all into one container, and made one new candle.
It was pretty easy. I think the key to the whole thing is having the right tools though. The mold, the wick, stuff like that. And experience will certainly help. So, I'm looking forward to getting more experienced.

I don't know what it is about candles. I like to light them; and watch them burn. We light several on Sunday mornings at church. We have several around our house. Something about watching a candle burn reminds me of the Holy Spirits presence. I don't know why. Maybe it's the fact that it's so noticeable, especially if it's dark. Maybe it's because you know that at any moment it can go out. Maybe it's just the shear beauty. There's a boldness in the center of a burning flame.

I suppose we are somewhat similar to candles... especially the one I made yesterday. We are made up of a hodgepodge of already-happened events. We are equiped with "tools" given to us from God. And we can either burn... or be idle; decoration; collecting dust; losing our scent.

I want to burn. I was reading about the importance of using the correct size wick for the size candle you're making. Too big and it will burn out of control; too small and it will snuff out. Kinda like, "Don't consider yourselves more highly than you ought" maybe??? But maybe a worse problem (I think) is not considering ourselves worthy enough to carry the flame.

Just some thoughts. Peace. Revolution. Burn brightly.

Old School Worship

Sitting in my office - not really sure what to do. We're going to sing all hymns this morning - out of the hymnal (well, except one song on screen) - and we're only using the keyboard. So I have no guitars to tune, no songs to prepare, no PRACTICE. It's weird. The band is in Florida today, as are about half of our church. I hope they're having fun (really). So... I decided that today we would do an "all-hymnal" Sunday.

We do this a couple of times a year. I really like singing hymns. And we sing at least one almost every Sunday. It's just that we usually do it with multiple instruments; and we don't use the hymnal. I prefer people looking up, at a screen, rather than down into a book. I think it's more 'unifying' that way; more 'worshipful,' maybe. It's usually better to 'look up' than to 'look down.'

At any rate... I feel weird. But I hope you will bless this day, Lord. I hope you will find it pleasing. May your presence be felt just like always. Thanks for loving me (us). I love You. Happy day.

Peace. And revolution.

So long Braves...

Bummer. My Bradley Braves were thumped last night by Memphis. What a great year, though! Congrats to Jim Les and Peoria on a nice season (especially the end).

I have lately been mostly an Illinois fan when it comes to college hoops. And still am. But Bradley was always my #1 team when I lived in Illinois. I didn't attend a lot of games, but remember trying to go once a year at least - first to Robertson Memorial Fieldhouse (the hangar), and then the Civic Center. I enjoyed watching Mitchell Anderson, Donald Thirdkill, Jim Les, Hersey Hawkins, Donald Powell, Mike Williams, Anthony Parker, Anthony Manuel, and a bunch of other great basketball players from Bradley's past.

So... who to root for now? Well, Memphis, of course!

Peace, friends. Revolution.

Pimping Jesus

This article on Pimping Jesus, on the Leadership blog is pretty good too. Jonathan Yarboro, explores the influence of consumerism on our understanding of the gospel and conversion.

p.r.

Church Marketing Sucks

Hehe... I stumbled upon the church marketing sucks web site, and was quite intrigued by what I read. I thought maybe it was a joke or something, but their "about" section states:

"Our mission is to frustrate, educate and motivate the church to communicate, with uncompromising clarity, the truth of Jesus Christ. Church Marketing Sucks is a part of the Center for Church Communication, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping the church matter."

Check it out. I think they understand the REVOLUTION. Peace.

New Things

Started a new book today
I began reading McLaren's THE LAST WORD AND THE WORD AFTER THAT. This is the third in a trilogy of books (A New Kind of Christian, and The Story We Find Ourselves In). For some reason I really connected with these stories. Maybe because they're about a pastor named Dan, and I can kind of relate to what he's going through. Plus, I like McLaren's style.

I began reading the book the way I read all books. I was taught to always read the entire front cover, then the back cover, then the inside flap, then everything BEFORE the first chapter, and anything that might come after the conclusion, then begin reading the chapters. So, I read all that and chapter one. Haven't been disappointed yet.

Jane's Blog
My beautiful wife, Jane, started a blog yesterday. I will wait awhile before adding it to my links - not sure if she's ready for everyone to read her thoughts yet. But... welcome aboard, dear! I love you!! :)

Kids are going to Florida
Both my kids - Carrie & Isaac - will be heading to Florida tomorrow. Carrie as a chaperone and Isaac as a student, with their Campus Life group. Isaac has to lug along guitar and amp to lead worship. I wouldn't let him take my acoustic amp - because I really like it (fender); but I'm going to let him take my "good" acoustic/electric, because I don't value it as much as my old Yamaha. The "good one" is an Alvarez/Yairi DY-40C. It is a beautiful guitar, and sounds really nice; but I've just never felt "comfortable" playing it. It's a rather big guitar, and I actually feel much more comfortable playing the old Yamaha - but the electronics in it are messed up, and it doesn't sound as good. At any rate, I wanted Isaac to take the good one so he didn't have any problems with electronics; plus, if something happens to it... you know, a Martin would be really nice. I like their smooth sound. [and if anyone would be interested in buying my Alvarez/Yairi - drop me a line].

Oh, why is this a new thing... because I don't think both my kids have had a spring-break type vacation together since middle school. They went to seperate high schools. So, I'm glad they're going together.

Okay... work to do. Peace. Revolution. Go now.

Carry me

My Bible reading this morning was Psalm 28. I'm reading in the Contemporary English Version, and verse 9b reads,

"Be our shepherd and always carry us in your arms."

That's how the chapter ends. I read that over and over. Then I said it... over and over. What a prayer.

Doesn't that go against our way of thinking though? I mean, to ask God to "ALWAYS" carry us. Isn't he just supposed to prop us back up on our feet... Or give us just enough help so we'll be able to handle things on our own...

It seems somewhat "helpless" to ask him to "Be our shepherd and always carry us in your arms." Why does that seem wrong?

I think it's hard to admit that we will never be good enough. That what God wants is NOT for us to "just add a little Jesus to our lives"... but to DEPEND ON HIM COMPLETELY... WHOLLY... FOREVER.

Hmm. If I can allow myself to forget all that I know about doing life, it's really a quite comforting thought.

Be my shepherd, Lord, and always carry me in your arms. Amen.

Peace. Revolution. Go.

Thoughts on Parenting

I've been dealing with some "parental problems" lately. Not so much in regards to raising my kids, but in dealing with some parents in my group who are... well... you know, having some problems. These are some things that came to my mind. Feel free to comment if you like. I need all the help I can get.

SOME RANDOM THOUGHTS ON PARENTING:

- The reason children have parents is because they need them. Our children live in a world that by-and-large does not care for them or about them. They need someone who will guide, support, encourage and love them no matter what. For your child/children… that someone is YOU!

- Parents should put the needs of their children above their own. The truth is: You are supposed to be the grown up, they are not. They won’t be with you forever.

- Your children will likely grow up to be the same type of adult you are. If you don’t want them to be like you – CHANGE YOURSELF – don’t expect your child to do it!

- Parenting requires a ton of grace, patience, energy, understanding & love. And it should all be at no cost to your child. It’s a free service we provide because it’s an outgrowth of those things we have been given by our Father in heaven. Your children will make no more mistakes than you have.

- Don’t expect your child to do for you. You do for them (at least until you’re senile).

- Parenting is probably the most difficult thing you will ever do. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid to admit you don’t have all the answers. But DON’T EVER quit.

- (For those of you like me with kids about to graduate): Your children need you now more than ever. This is likely the biggest transition point in their life to date. No matter what… Now is not a time to be selfish. Now it is of utmost importance that you be the parent. Now is not a time to reject, neglect, or make your child feel guilty or insecure. Now is the time to support, encourage, and love like never before. Granted, it may have to be in subtle ways; it will require great amounts of restraint in public; will result in many tears in private… but as much as your child may not know it, now is when they need you to be their parent more than ever.

- Do everything you can to let your children know how valuable they are to you. Doubt is a natural human emotion; it is supernatural for kids and teenagers.

- Finally, your children are YOUR responsibility. Don’t expect someone else to care for them or about them. There are people who would be willing – some of them might even have pure motives – but as God created your child from you, He also expects you to eternally love and care for them as well.

- P.S.S - If you feel overwhelmed at times... join the club. Take a deep breath; talk to someone; pray.

This prayer accompanies the carnation given when parents present their children for the Lord’s blessing in our church. It is my prayer for parents everywhere today:

We give you this white carnation as a symbol of the purity and innocence of your child. It is also a symbol to remind you that the loveliest flowers that grow in the garden of your life are your children, and that your highest calling is to nurture them in the fear and admonition of the Lord, that they may grow in beauty, usefulness, and faith, and may it serve to remind you of the vows you have taken to be the guide and teacher of their lives. Amen.

Hold on to the faith, my friends. Much peace. revolution.

The Sacred Way

I finished reading THE SACRED WAY by Tony Jones this morning. Yeah... a really good book for me right now. Reading it made me feel calmer; practicing the spiritual disciplines made me feel more connected with Christ; and it gave me a boatload of ideas for church - especially during Lent. I recommend it.

Now I think I may start THE LAST WORD AND THE WORD AFTER THAT by Brian McLaren, and also ENJOY THE SILENCE by Maggie & Duffy Robbins.

Peace. And Revolution.

Coaches, Pastors & Parents

I've been thinking lately about leadership issues. It started after attending a church leadership gathering. There were some "older", and somewhat "successful" PASTORS there. And in listening to them talk about their churches and their ministries, it struck me: They never talked about being disappointed in the people in their churches, or what "other people" needed to do. They talked about their churches as "we"; and they talked about the things they, themselves needed to do to help their churches be more effective, or the things they, themselves needed to do to be of more help to their people. It was never what "the people" needed to do, or what anyone needed to do for them.

This is very refreshing compared to those pastors who say, or insuate, that all their problems are because of "the people in the church." They say things like, "If these people would just get it through their heads"; or "When will they understand..." or "If they would get their act together...", etc. etc.

Then, while watching the opening weekend of the NCAA Basketball tournament, I noticed something about how basketball COACHES talked. It was strikingly similar. The seasoned, more "successful" coaches usually seemed to talk in more positive terms about their players. And in talking about stragety, they always talked about their need, as a coach, to figure out how to help the TEAM. In contrast to some coaches who complain that their players won't play hard, or won't listen to them, or won't do this or that. Again, there is a difference between the "team concept" and the "us vs. them" concept. But beyond that, there seems to be a difference between the leaders as "servants" and the leader being merely a "teller."

Tied to this is something that is really troubling my heart this morning. There are a couple of family situations that are just tearing me up. PARENTS who are - shall I just say - being stupid. I think parenting could operate along the same lines as church leadership and coaching. Is there an "us vs. them" attitude, or a "family" attitude? Are we concerned about our children, or solely how it is going to effect our life right now? Do we understand why children are to have parents? Do we understand the need for leadership, guidance, support, and nurturing in the life of our children - especially at critical moments in their lives? Do we think of our children as a part of us, or as "someone else"? I just have a bunch of jumbled thoughts. I was hoping that writing them down might bring some clarity.

At any rate... I didn't even notice until I walked into my office that I wore my slippers to work today. I walked across the yard and the church parking lot without a clue. What does that tell you about my mind this morning. :)

Peace and revolution folks. Thanks for being here.

Someday I would like to...

I think a lot of people go through life just doing... whatever. You know, we get a job, and we just do what we're supposed to do. Or we do things in reponse to what someone has done to us. Or we DON'T do things... because we're scared, or we're tied down, or we've been convinced it is stupid, or a waste of time... and however many other reasons there are.

I was trying to think this morning... what are some of the things I would like to do? It was harder than I thought it would be to come up with things. I would like to read more poetry (and understand it); I would like to write more poetry; I wish I could play lead guitar like David Gilmour, or Carolos Santana, Clapton, or my son; I would like to start running outside again & get better at it; I would like to run in a race (it would be really nice to sprint again, but I think age relegates me to 5 k's and such); I would like to take a really long walk sometime - like a trek, or a pilgrimage; I would like to spend more time visiting with people; I would like to laugh more; listen more; I would like to practice spiritual disciplines more - such as silence, centering prayer, fasting, etc.; I would like to be a candlemaker...

I guess that's quite a bit of stuff. Kind of an odd assortment. So... what would you like to do? Any ideas? Anything keeping you from doing it?

Of course, just because you want to do something doesn't mean you should. Sometimes the things we want to do aren't in line with the things God wants for us - and He knows best. Also, sometimes it's best to want to do something for a long, long time. After having to wait, it will make it that much better. And it could be that some of the things on my list I will never do (probably). That doesn't mean it was a waste to want to do them. It probably goes a long way in determining what kind of person you are. I don't know, I'm not in much of a mood to think. So, that's all I was thinking about.

NEED A NEW NAME
It's about time to change the name of my blog. The experiment isn't working out quite like I'd planned. Problem is, I have run out of names to try. Can't think of a good one. I think I am tired of this one though. If you have an idea, let me know.

Peace. Revolution.

Dr. Dan

Go figure. I punched "doctor dan" into google images and got a pic of this dog.

At any rate... no, I didn't get a doctorate. Jane (his wife) went to the doc today and found out she has pneumonia. So I'm "playing" doctor. She's to take the rest of the week off work - no more pizza making this week. Hopefully she'll start to feel better in a few days.

Carrie (the daughter) swung through good ole' Buda, IL and picked up my mom and took her to Branson, Missouri. Huntington University is playing for the NAIA Div. II men's basketball championship. My mom's sister lives in Springfield, MO.

So... me, Isaac and the dog are kinda just hangin' out. I'm not a very good doctor; or nurse. But I'm not a bad patient. Too bad it wasn't me that was sick instead of Jane. I pray that You will bring her healing and strength.

Peace. And revolution.

Pilgrimage

NOTE TO SELF
Begin thinking about a place to make a pilgrimage. Maybe when I retire. If I retire.

Thomas a Kempis said:
"Keep yourself a stranger and pilgrim upon this earth, to whom the affairs of this world are of no concern. Keep your heart free and lifted up to God, for here you have no abiding city."

I don't really know too much about words. Don't know a lot about a lot of things. I'm what you would call a simple mind. But, in looking at the word "pilgrimage", it looks kinda like "pilgrim" "age". Is this our pilgrim age? You know, 'we're all just strangers here, on our way to somewhere else.'

How much time do I spend trying to "fit in"? Trying to be "relevant"? Trying to keep up with the times and be "normal"? How freeing it would be to forget all that. Not that I should try to be different, or should completely disregard all that's going on around me. But a pilgrim packs light. Is free and easy and unencumbered. Stands out - not on purpose - but because they are living in, or from, another time, another dimension, another mental framework.

AFFAIRS
Affairs aren't real, you know. The "affairs of this world." They should be no concern. And what are affairs? Are they not a striving for something you're missing; doing something you don't want to do to try to get what you don't have? You could even say affairs are just "business". Monkey business. And it's not real. Not really.

What if what is real is that which we cannot see. What if our eyes decieve us; and our senses and feelings and all that stuff. And what is real is the "what is, what was, and what is to come." You know, it's not just "now"... but it's all of it together. What is real is what has happened, what is happening, and what will happen. And when I reach my destination, it won't just be the me that was there at the end - it will be the "whole" me... the me from when I was young, the me from middle age, the me with more wisdom than I have now.

IN THE NOW
Today was such a weird day. After having thought about a situation all weekend (see previous post), I had someone come into my office this morning and confess the exact same thing to me. Talk about God planning ahead.

I want to be a stranger to the culture. Not that I'm unaware of what's going on, and not that I don't seek to understand human behavior from a cultural standpoint. But I want to look at it as a pilgrim just passing through. Culture is not final. It is not real. It is not defining. It is temporary; already out-dated; waiting to be museumated.

I want to look at life in such a way that I can see all the way through. I don't know how you do that. But maybe I don't need to. Lord Jesus, give me eyes to see, and ears to hear.

Peace, peeps. Revolution... in a radical way.
(ps - watch over Carrie as she travels to Illinois and Missouri. She's a sweetie and I love her).

Pornography & Penance

I got a call from my brother-in-law today, asking me for advice. Gulp. He recently became an elder in his church, and I think he was looking for ammo, or support. Apparently a "leader" in his church admitted to being addicted to pornography. I don't know what he meant by "leader", other than it's not the pastor or an elder. And the person has said they are "getting help." But b-i-l thinks something needs to be done.

I dunno. I can see both sides. Pornography is a bad thing. I first got an eyeful when I was a young lad, plastered on the side of Terry Littlefield's garage. It is very addicting. And church leaders should be held to a high degree of accountability. But... I really don't know enough about the situation to state an opinion. I know I have often jumped to conclusions, or rushed into things, and more damage was done than good.

So... I went and bought my b-i-l Donald Millers' BLUE LIKE JAZZ. There's not much I can do about the pornographer, but I feel like b-i-l has some bitterness issues. I don't think he's gotten over his divorce yet. I think he views God as nothing but a big judge in the sky, waiting for us to mess up. I pray that he will find peace. I pray that the pornographer will find it too, and conviction (if he already hasn't).

TO OWN A DRAGON
Speaking of Donald Miller books, I also bought his newest, "To Own A Dragon: Reflections On Growing Up Without A Father." I didn't grow up without a father, but I know many people who have. Plus I like Don's writing. And Jeff Foxworthy wrote the review on the back cover - I thought that was an interesting choice for a Christian write. Now, if I just didn't have those other 20 books I needed to read...

Peace & Revolution, friends. Go!

Shaped by God's Heart

I received another free book last night - Shaped By God's Heart: The Passion and Practices of Missional Churches by Milfred Miatrea. It looks really good. The inside flap states:

"Shaped By God's Heart reveals that it's not the church's activity level that defines success but whether its activities accomplish God's mission for His church. This book helps ministers and church leaders move beyond mere survival and maintenance toward a thriving missional mode for their congregations. Missional congregations become fully relevant to today's society without losing what is distinctively Christian in their spiritual practices."

District Leaders Meeting
I received the book at a District Leadership Meeting. It's for the church leaders in the eastern disctrict of the Midwest Region of the Churches of God, General Conference, Findlay, OH. Of course there aren't usually too many leaders who show up. Which is a bummer, because I think it's a good time to get together and eat food and talk about Jesus. But... well, never mind.

Lowell Burress gave a talk based on the already-mentioned book. I like Lowell. An older guy who has pastored a rural church for 36 years or so. Great guy. I hope I have his fire when I'm his age. I wish I had his fire now! I also sat by Lloyd Harlan. He used to pastor the church I'm at. He retired maybe 10 years ago and has probably filled a pulpit almost every Sunday since then. Another great guy. And Jim Martin was on the other side of him. Another retired guy who doesn't know the meaning of the word "quit." What a great cloud of witnesses to be surrounded by. I felt honored.

Bachelors Weekend
Isaac and I are alone this weekend. Jane & Carrie went to Findlay for a Women's Retreat. Two other ladies went with them. I hope they enjoy it. Of course, Jane called last night to say that the 'engine light' came on in the car. I hope it's just a faulty light. Argh.

Post Script from yesterday
I feel bad now over what I wrote yesterday about Christian concerts. They're not all bad; and I don't "hate" them. Sometimes it is irritating though. But... I know why they do what they do. And I'm glad they do. I was just being a bit self-centered. When I go to a show, I would like for it to be all about me. But there are usually other people there too. So... please forgive me.

Well, gotta get some stuff done. Peace & Revolution, okay? Yes! Or, as Lowell said last night... sometimes "you gotta HIT somebody" (a reference to how his brother told him you become a good football player - I'm not referring to the physical sense, but... you know... make a stinkin' difference, okay!). Later.
d.

Dark Side of the Moon

I hadn't listened to this album for I-don't-know-how-long. In fact, this was the very first cassette tape I remember buying - when I switched over from 8-tracks.

I put it on while cleaning today. Truly one of the BEST albums of all time. And I remember during my "Rock Music Styles" class at UofF (this was towards my bachelor of religious studies degree) this was a breakthrough album that changed the industry. Below I will list some great info on the album...

But first, let me just say... and I feel a bit odd saying it, since I am a Christian pastor and all... but I just can't handle attending Christian concerts anymore. I was asked to go to a 'WinterJam' concert at a stadium this weekend (Newsboys, Newsong, Zoegirl, and a bunch of others). You know, it's not that I don't like concerts, but "most" Christian concerts are so stinking predictable anymore. And I hate going to them. I would go see Jars of Clay - my daughter said they did a good show. And I saw a guy named Josh Garrells that was good. But I can't stand the "selling Jesus" part; and the "trying to save everyone there", and "you should give money to this cause" and... I don't know, that's what too many Christian concerts are. (to me).

Okay, here is the info on Dark Side of the Moon, from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dark_Side_of_the_Moon:

The Dark Side of the Moon (The initial "The" is omitted in most versions of the title) is a 1973 concept album by Pink Floyd, dealing with the pressures of life such as time, money, war, mental illness, and death.

Originally composed as "Eclipse: A Piece for Assorted Lunatics", it was played live during Pink Floyd's 1972 tour. The Dark Side of the Moon was the original title of the opus, but the band Medicine Head had already released an album by that name (although without the "The"). However, their album flopped, and the name The Dark Side of the Moon was once again used...

The Dark Side of the Moon is one of the best-selling albums of all time worldwide, and the 18th-best-selling album in the United States. It peaked at #1 on The Billboard 200, spent a record-setting total of 741 weeks (over 15 years) on that list… Since it was first released, it has sold over 40 million copies worldwide as of 2004. It is estimated that one in every 14 people in the U.S. under the age of 50 owns a copy of this album.

Concept
The Dark Side of the Moon is a concept album. The album covers the faults of humanity and the pressures of modern life that can drive a man to insanity, including mortality, religion, money, the encroachment of old age, society and conflict. The track On the Run represents pressures of escaping pursuit. Time discusses how quickly life can slip by. The Great Gig in the Sky was known as "The Mortality Sequence" during recording, and has a religious or death theme. Money talks about the greed in the world, and how money is the "root of all evil today". Us and Them deals with conflict and war. Brain Damage is about lunacy and what it is like. Eclipse was to mean the same thing with a different concept of singing. While it is broken up into 9 different tracks on most releases, it is considered one whole piece as opposed to an album with independent songs.

Another common theory surrounding the concept of the album is that it tells the story of the cycle of life, Speak to Me/Breathe"being the tale of birth, and gradually insanity (Brain Damage) and death (Eclipse).

Recording
Recorded at Abbey Road Studios, London between June 1972 and January 1973, the album contains some of the most intricate uses of instruments and sound effects in the studio up to that time… Another feature of the album is the snippets of dialogue between and over the tracks. Pink Floyd interviewed various people, asking questions related to the central themes of the album, such as violence and death... Paul and Linda McCartney were interviewed, but their answers were considered too cautious for inclusion.

Alan Parsons engineered the album while on staff at Abbey Road. He once said in an interview that he swapped shifts with colleagues in order to work on the whole project.

ME AGAIN:
Peace. Revolution. Go...

Stations of the Cross

I read through Tony Jones' "Stations of the Cross" devotions this morning. Wow. I've gone through them before - only in book form, or on the 'net - and it amazes me how moving it can be. I can't imagine going through an actual setup.

NOTE TO SELF:
Consider doing the Stations on Maundy Thursday for the church.

Lately on Maundy Thursday we have had it in the basement, by candlelight. We begin with a soup and bread meal - with soft music playing (the 'Passion of the Christ' soundtrack, or Phil Keaggy instrumental, or something like that). I share some kind of devotion. We take communion. Usually sing a song or two accompanied by guitar only. And then we have a feetwashing service. We have done the feetwashing in a variety of ways.

This year I'm thinking of maybe still having the meal, taking communion, doing feetwashing, and then setting up maybe a 14-station set-up upstairs in the sanctuary. If I could get a pic of each station, and place a devotion and a prayer alongside it, with a candle at each place... Then just allow people to walk through alone or in couples.

It all sounds good now. Not sure of all the details though. This is where I wish I had another staff person to help out, or even someone else who was familiar with this sort of thing. But... it sounds like a very appealing idea right now. Perhaps I will use Tony's devotions, but not use station 15 (empty tomb). We can go there on Sunday.

Peace, friends. Revolution. (It just occurred to me that my daughter is a PR major in college. Of the 'public relations' kind though. There should be a 'peace & revolution' major.)

Voiceless

I've been unable to post all day. I kept getting an error message. I also tried to comment on the emergingcggc blog and got the same error message. It felt weird. Sort of a cross between being censored and being sick.

I can't imagine not having a voice. Not being able to speak. Or not being able to have a say in anything.

I think there are probably a lot of people in the world who have so much to say, but don't feel they have a voice... don't feel they have a right, or don't have the courage, or the self-confidence.

Jesus said we are to speak up for those with no voice. I read an article this morning directed at pastors... the author encouraged pastors to look after those who were quiet. Partly because someone needs to look after them, partly because they have a lot that needs said... that "should be" said. I'm wondering how to best go about that. It's hard with quiet people. Because sometimes they're quiet because they WANT to be. Or, maybe they're only quiet around me. At any rate, it requires a great deal of listening to hear what a voiceless person has to say.

Patience.

What do you hear God saying? Does he have a voice in your life? Hmm.

Peace. Revolution!
d.

Spiritual Direction

I've been reading Tony Jones' book THE SACRED WAY. Today I read ch. 10 on Spiritual Direction. On p.110 he says:

"...at its heart, spiritual direction attempts to recreate that same environment in which Adam walked with God: A time of peace and listening to discover where God is moving in one's life."

He goes on... "The belief implicit in spiritual direction is that God's Spirit is alive and active in the world, constantly moving in the believer's life. The second premise is that believers who are experienced in life and faith and who are committed to spiritual disciplines themselves may be able to help others to notice the movements of the Spirit." The 'experienced' believer would be the spiritual director.

He used a great metaphor: "We're like two people sitting on a train; I'm in the aisle seat, you're in the window seat, and you are describing to me what you see."

So... a question I have is... do you think spiritual direction can take place on a blog?

I know this isn't necessarily the same thing, but I think it would be great to find a group of people willing to share how they see God working in their lives -- without having to worry about someone else judging them or trying to "correct their thinking." Maybe that's too idealistic. It would be hard, no doubt. But just a thought.

Neil Young
I was reading about Neil Young and his recent brain aneurysm. It was in the middle of writing/recording his latest album (Prairie Wind). It is fantastic by the way. But anyway, following the surgery he had some complications and was in the hospital and he asked if someone could stay with him through the night. They had an elderly woman volunteer sit with him. She was sharing her faith with Neil and he said he had always believed in nature. And she simply asked about Who created it... what about the One who made it all, and him. And the last song on Prairie Wind is "When God Made Me." A beautiful song about faith and doubt and wonder. Neil even found out later that the recording studio he was using at the time had at one time been a church building. (I read about this in both 'Rolling Stone' magazine and the 'Readers Digest'.

Old Friends
Yesterday I had a suprise call from an old friend - Dave Draper, the President of the Seminary I attended (Winebrenner Theological Seminary, Findlay, OH). He was passing through and wondered if I could do lunch. What an awesome time. I can't believe he even called me - who the heck am I. And it's funny how with some people, you always come away feeling good after talking to them. That's what Dr. Draper is like. I wish I were more like that.

Another experience I had with an old friend was an email I received Saturday morning. It was from the sister of an old friend. I had blogged earlier about one of the main positive influences on me becoming a pastor being this girl Denise Royce. Denise was such a nice person. I wasn't really "close" with her, but we were friends nonetheless - we ran in the same circle. She always made me feel welcome; comfortable; at ease. And she could always smile no matter what she felt like at the time. Anyway, she died in a car accident several years ago. Her sister googled her name and found my blog and emailed me about it. I was really touched by that. It kind of makes me sad as I think about Denise - the accident and all - but it also makes me wonder... was there something more there. Was it all a part of God's plan... maybe for Tara; maybe for Denise's parents; maybe for me. I don't know. I think it's no mistake that I knew her; it's no mistake that her name appeared here; no mistake that google exists and can link untold names and places and events in history. Probably no mistake you're reading this today (assuming someone is).

I think that's the coolest thing about Spiritual Direction... it doesn't have to do with what we do so much, but with what God is doing around us... in us... through us. All I can say is... where do you see him in your life right now? Is He trying to tell you something? I don't know...

I feel good today. The sun is shining. There is a really cool shadow cast across the chair in my office. I love you, Lord. Thanks for loving me.

Peace. Revolution. Let's go.
d.

Oscar Wild

CRASH
Wow, could the Academy actually have gotten things right? I was so glad to see that "Crash" won for best picture. I had actually just watched this Saturday night... and it is an awesome movie. I want to watch it again before I make too many comments about it. It seems to put forth the idea that the only hope we have is this small something that resides down inside of us as humans. I'd like to think that something is the piece of God He has put there. The Holy Spirit maybe. I dunno. Probably not what the author had in mind, but... who knows. A good movie nonetheless.

I also liked the choices for best actor & actress. Philip Seymour Hoffman and Reese Witherspoon.

And, regarding Brokeback Mountain... okay, I'll say it... I am glad it didn't win any major awards. And it's not that I have anything against gays. I just hated the whole hyped/agenda thing. I have not seen this movie, and I'm not sure I will, but I have heard it was hyped to be way better than it actually was. And if it weren't for the statement it was trying to make it wouldn't have been a very good movie in-and-of-itself. I don't know... just didn't like the "gay agenda." Like, you know, I don't have anything against someone... unless they're trying too hard to prove I shouldn't. I was just glad Crash won best picture.

GUEST SPEAKER
Yesterday was nice becasue I had a guest speaker in church. A seminary student - Ken Markward - shared a real good message from Joshua 6. I really liked his easy-going style and down-to-earth-ness. And it was nice to listen to a sermon in person for a change. Seemed like I didn't do anything all day though. Now it's back to the grind. Not that it's a grind, but... yeah, sometimes it seems like that.

Work to do. Life to live. Much more to tell, but it will have to wait. I had a VERY INTERESTING email over the weekend - I need to remember to write that down. Thanks Tara. :)

Rock on, my friends. Peace, and a peaceful revolution too.
d.

You can tune a piano

I almost forgot... the piano tuner came today. I don't know why, but i always love it when he comes. He's a quircky little guy, but something about listening to him just hitting the keys over and over again is so relaxing. I can sit in my office and first it's one note... several times; then another... several times; then another; then a few in a row. It is so slow and tedious. Simple. Maybe that's what I like about it. It's kind of like when you're sitting in a barber chair getting a haircut. It's like nothing else is going on in the world. You are just "here."

I think that would be a cool job -- to tune piano's. But, you know what else would be cool... is if someone would come once a year or so and... tune ME. You know, someone to sit down and have all their attention focused on nothing other than getting my life in tune... So I sounded good; looked good. Yeah, I think I need tuned. Slowly. Tediously. Go ahead, Spirit... please.

This notes for you.

peace. r...

ch ch ch ch changes

It's another song title. I used to have the Steve Taylor cassette with "Jesus Is For Losers" on it - many years ago. I wish I had the cd. I loved this song, and the whole album.

I'm so glad he is for losers. Otherwise I would have no hope.

I feel rotten again today. What's the deal? Just can't get my butt movin'. Of course, the other night I visited a home where both occupants had what they thought was the flu. Yesterday I made a hospital visit to a lady with an upper respiratory infection. Jane (the wife) was wheezing and sneezing this morning. I just feel lethargic.

WOKE UP WEIRD
This morning when I woke up I had the strangest feeling. Can't really describe it. It kind of felt like my space had been invaded or something. I even wondered if someone was in the house; or if something had happened outside. I wondered if Carrie was alright, and my parents, mother-in-law, etc. I don't know... I haven't heard about anything today. But I just feel such a strong "heavy-ness."

MISC.
I wish I had some words of wisdom to share. Sorry. Blogging can be such a lonely way to go about relationships. But... tomorrow is the day off. And you know what that means!?! I get to clean the house! Although it's still somewhat clean because we cleaned yesterday because Isaac had a Fellowship of Christian Athlete's Bible Study at our house. Funny... I think only a couple of them are athlete's (which Isaac is not), but it's good that they get together anyway. He was bummed that it didn't go too well last night. I feel for him, because that happens all the time. You really want things to go well, and... well... yeah. But sometimes what looks bad can be misleading. Jesus is for losers, after all.

Hey... rock on. Peace. Revolt. Revolution. Revolutionary. Revolutionist. Revolutionistic. Revolutionistically. (are these words?) Later.
d.

The Church

I recently started checking Scot McKnight's blog, and one day he said:

"the church is a people whom embraces and gets embraced by God's grace and then embraces others."

Wow. I like that. I agree with the idea of that. I wish it were more true.

Last night I had to make a visit, and I didn't want to go because I had been a little angry with the people I needed to visit. I read from my "Critical Questions for Leadership" accountability card: "Are people really encountering and experiencing God's love in and through their encounters with me?" That helped straighten my attitude a bit.

Thanks you, Jesus, for all you've done for me. Come, Holy Spirit... I need you more and more each day. I love You. I want to be a part of THE church; I want to help the church I'm a part of be Your church; I want to always be aware of what it means to be embraced by Your grace, and always be ready to embrace others with it... so they might encounter & experience You through their encounters with me.

peace. may the revolution become 'normal'.