The 13th and final chapter of Shane Claiborne's "The Irresistible Revolution." I close this book as though I am saying good-bye to an old friend. It was a worthwhile read, but I am always sad at the end of books like this -- I don't want to 'forget the face.' It's so easy to do. Shane challenged me greatly, but he reminded me of my first love; he pried open tired eyes; he renewed hope and restored heart. Please, Lord, don't let me forget. Help me get over myself.
Just a few quotes to end with:
p. 346 "We have to remind each other that we are not crazy, or that if we are crazy, at least we are not alone. Jesus and most of the apostles were accused of being crazy. Lots of saints were nearly institutionalized, and some actually were.”
Yessir, yessir. This is what I wish our 'communites of worship' were more about. WE'RE ALL ON THE SAME SIDE (meaning 'Christians'). I wish we could quit nitpicking and do more pulling together... and something might actually happen as a result.
p. 349 "We must neither get used to the darkness of human suffering or fall asleep in the comfort of the light."
Yep. It is so easy to accept the way things are - either in becoming desensitized to the world, or getting comfortable with our safe distance from her problems.
p. 354 “If you have the gift of frustration and the deep sense that the world is a mess, thank God for that; not everyone has that gift of vision. It also means that you have a responsibility to lead us in new ways. Recognizing that something is wrong is the first step toward changing the world. So for those of us who have nearly given up on the church, may we take comfort in the words of St. Augustine: “The Church is a whore, but she’s my mother.” She is a mess and has many illegitimate children. But she is also our momma and managed to give birth to us and give us enough of the truth that we have been able to ask the questions that we have in this book.”
Yes. I liked his call to 'be' the church, rather than to 'leave' the church. He went on to say on p. 354: I once heard a pastor say, “The church is like Noah’s ark. It stinks, but if you get out of it, you’ll drown.”
The final quote, from p. 356 “One friend was asked by a skeptic, ‘You all are just a little group of radical idealists. What makes you actually think you can change the world?’ And she said, ‘Sir, if you will take a closer look at history you will see… that’s the only way it has ever been done.’ Welcome to the irresistible revolution, a new and ancient way of life that is so attractive, who would settle for anything else? Welcome to the revolution of little people, guerrilla peacemakers, and dancing prophets, the revolution that loves and laughs. The revolution begins inside each of us, and through little acts of love, it will take over the world. Let us begin to be Christians again. Jesus, give us the courage.”
What more can be said. LET US BEGIN TO BE CHRISTIANS AGAIN. Jesus, give us courage. Amen and amen.
Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).
Saturday, September 30, 2006
Thursday, September 28, 2006
Growing Smaller and Smaller Until We Take Over The World
Chapter 12 quotes from Shane Claiborne's "The Irresistible Revolution." Ewee, there were some rather hard-to-swallow elements in this chapter. But it really touched on some things I've already been thinking about lately. Funny how God will do that sometimes. I suppose he knows it takes some of us longer to digest our food than others.
So... the quotes:
p. 317 The old comic strip: Two pastors are talking, and one of them asks the other, “How’s your church?” The other pastor boasts, “Quite well, I should say. When I got there, we had only thirty members, and I have been there only a year. Now we are seeing over four hundred people on Sunday morning. And how’s your church?” The first pastor says, “Well, I don’t know. When I got there, we were seeing about a hundred. I’ve been preaching the gospel, and I’ve preached that ole church down to ten.” (Shane says, “I’m not sure the Christian gospel always draws a crowd.”)
Boy does this fly in the face of the church growth stuff I was raised on.
p. 319 “The church has always faced the same temptation, from the time of Constantine’s sword to now. We are tempted to do great things like rappel from the rafters in the newest church gym or throw the best pizza party so that kids might bow before the altar.”
A great youth ministry line I once heard (can't remember where): "Whatever you win them with is what you'll win them to." You know, if we teach 'em that church is all about playing games, what do we think they're going to learn from that?
p. 320 Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community (even if their intentions are ever so earnest), but the person who loves those around them will create community.” (Shane says): “Many congregations are in love with their mission and vision and rip one another apart in committee meetings trying to attain it. And many social activists I know tear each other up and burn themselves out fighting for a better world while forgetting that the seeds of that world are right next to them.”
Ouch. Um... yeah. I confess... a problem from time to time here. But I agree wholeheartedly with what he's saying.
p. 321 “We have a God who enters the world through smallness – a baby refugee, a homeless rabbi, the lilies and the sparrows. We have a God who values the little offering of a couple of coins from a widow over the megacharity of millionaires. We have a God who speaks through little people – a stuttering spokesman named Moses; the stubborn donkey of Balaam; a lying brothel owner named Rahab; an adulterous king named David; a ragtag bunch of disciples who betrayed, doubted, and denied; and a converted terrorist named Paul.”
Isn't He great! Gotta love that.
p. 337 “So there goes Jesus turning power on its head again. His power was not in crushing but in being crushed, triumphing over the empire’s sword with his cross. Mustard must be crushed, ground, broken in order for its power to be released.”
p. 338 “Mustard – the official sponsor of the Jesus revolution; a healing balm, a sign of upside-down power, and a good dip for a kosher meal.”
Maybe you've never noticed the line under my title, but mustard is a major part of this blog -- and it IS dangerous to make it a part of your life. Mustard seeds aren't just tiny, but they were unwanted in many places because of the great strength of the plant that grew from them. It can split rocks for cryin-out-loud! It's almost unnoticed, but even in small amounts is dangerously powerful!
All in all, a good chapter; but another equally unsettling one. Much to ponder. Much to do.
Journey real, folks.
So... the quotes:
p. 317 The old comic strip: Two pastors are talking, and one of them asks the other, “How’s your church?” The other pastor boasts, “Quite well, I should say. When I got there, we had only thirty members, and I have been there only a year. Now we are seeing over four hundred people on Sunday morning. And how’s your church?” The first pastor says, “Well, I don’t know. When I got there, we were seeing about a hundred. I’ve been preaching the gospel, and I’ve preached that ole church down to ten.” (Shane says, “I’m not sure the Christian gospel always draws a crowd.”)
Boy does this fly in the face of the church growth stuff I was raised on.
p. 319 “The church has always faced the same temptation, from the time of Constantine’s sword to now. We are tempted to do great things like rappel from the rafters in the newest church gym or throw the best pizza party so that kids might bow before the altar.”
A great youth ministry line I once heard (can't remember where): "Whatever you win them with is what you'll win them to." You know, if we teach 'em that church is all about playing games, what do we think they're going to learn from that?
p. 320 Dietrich Bonhoeffer said, “The person who loves their dream of community will destroy community (even if their intentions are ever so earnest), but the person who loves those around them will create community.” (Shane says): “Many congregations are in love with their mission and vision and rip one another apart in committee meetings trying to attain it. And many social activists I know tear each other up and burn themselves out fighting for a better world while forgetting that the seeds of that world are right next to them.”
Ouch. Um... yeah. I confess... a problem from time to time here. But I agree wholeheartedly with what he's saying.
p. 321 “We have a God who enters the world through smallness – a baby refugee, a homeless rabbi, the lilies and the sparrows. We have a God who values the little offering of a couple of coins from a widow over the megacharity of millionaires. We have a God who speaks through little people – a stuttering spokesman named Moses; the stubborn donkey of Balaam; a lying brothel owner named Rahab; an adulterous king named David; a ragtag bunch of disciples who betrayed, doubted, and denied; and a converted terrorist named Paul.”
Isn't He great! Gotta love that.
p. 337 “So there goes Jesus turning power on its head again. His power was not in crushing but in being crushed, triumphing over the empire’s sword with his cross. Mustard must be crushed, ground, broken in order for its power to be released.”
p. 338 “Mustard – the official sponsor of the Jesus revolution; a healing balm, a sign of upside-down power, and a good dip for a kosher meal.”
Maybe you've never noticed the line under my title, but mustard is a major part of this blog -- and it IS dangerous to make it a part of your life. Mustard seeds aren't just tiny, but they were unwanted in many places because of the great strength of the plant that grew from them. It can split rocks for cryin-out-loud! It's almost unnoticed, but even in small amounts is dangerously powerful!
All in all, a good chapter; but another equally unsettling one. Much to ponder. Much to do.
Journey real, folks.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Uninspired
I have been so uninspired lately. Bored. I don't know why, but I wish I weren't.I don't really feel like I have anything to say. I mean, what do I talk about? We could discuss "the conversation"... which, as far as the whole emerging church thing goes... I'm just tired of it, you know. Like, it's already been said a jillion times on a cazillion different blogs, and... who really cares anyway. Even the new "Friend of Missional" button... I like the idea and everything, but, you know... I'm just really ... uninspired. Not that I maybe 'shouldn't' be inspired. But the truth is, I am not. I wish I were.
It seems there IS nothing new under sun, and... I guess that's it.
Making the revolution irresistible
Chapter eleven from Shane Claiborne's "The Irresistible Revolution". I've been feeling so uninspired lately, so not a lot again today, but here are a few quotes:
p. 295 “Gandhi said that if he had to choose between a violent person and a coward, he would choose the violent person. For a violent person can be taught to love, but very little can be done with a coward.”
That one was a little unsettling, because I've been feeling like much more of a coward lately than a revolutionary (and certainly moreso than a violent person).
p. 295 Che Guevara “Let me say, at the risk of seeming ridiculous, that the true revolutionary is guided by great feelings of love.”
A good quote by Che. If you haven't seen the movie, "The Motorcycle Diaries", you should.
p. 309 “Protestors are everywhere, but I think the world is desperately in need of prophets, those little voices that can point us toward another future. Some of us have spent so much time fighting what we are against that we can barely remember what we are for.”
Um... yeah... what was I fighting for, again?
p. 313 Emma Goldman “If I can’t dance, then it is not my revolution.”
Perhaps the best quote of all, and maybe it's more of a prayer... I would like to make it my prayer:
p. 314 “May the whispers of hope reach the ears of hope-hungry people in the shadows of our world.”
Peace, friends. Revolution.
p. 295 “Gandhi said that if he had to choose between a violent person and a coward, he would choose the violent person. For a violent person can be taught to love, but very little can be done with a coward.”
That one was a little unsettling, because I've been feeling like much more of a coward lately than a revolutionary (and certainly moreso than a violent person).
p. 295 Che Guevara “Let me say, at the risk of seeming ridiculous, that the true revolutionary is guided by great feelings of love.”
A good quote by Che. If you haven't seen the movie, "The Motorcycle Diaries", you should.
p. 309 “Protestors are everywhere, but I think the world is desperately in need of prophets, those little voices that can point us toward another future. Some of us have spent so much time fighting what we are against that we can barely remember what we are for.”
Um... yeah... what was I fighting for, again?
p. 313 Emma Goldman “If I can’t dance, then it is not my revolution.”
Perhaps the best quote of all, and maybe it's more of a prayer... I would like to make it my prayer:
p. 314 “May the whispers of hope reach the ears of hope-hungry people in the shadows of our world.”
Peace, friends. Revolution.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Extremists For Love
Chapter 10 of Shane Claiborne’s “The Irresistible Revolution.” Four quotes:
p. 270 “We live in an age in which people, when they hear the word Christian, are much more likely to think of people who hate gays than people who love outcasts, and that is a dangerous thing.”
p. 270 Brennan Manning said: “The greatest cause of atheism is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, then walk out the door and deny him with their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.”
p. 272 “I always say that if we believe terrorists are beyond redemption, we can rip out half of our New Testament, since it was written by a converted terrorist who became an extremist for grace (Paul). It’s what happens when we discover that God has a desperate love for losers just like us.”
p. 278 “That night in Baghdad, I read Psalm 23. It’s the one folks usually read at funerals: ‘Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.’ And I felt like I was. But I noticed something I had never noticed before. The psalm says that a table is prepared ‘in the presence of my enemies.’ I remember thinking, Why are our enemies there? What if after we die, God brings our enemies to the table and asks them how we treated them? What if Jesus asks them, ‘Shane here claims to follow me. Did he love you? Did he feed you and pray for you like I taught him to?’ What would our enemies say? And how awkward would dinner be with Saddam or George W. or the in-laws?”
That last one makes you think, doesn’t it? If not… never mind.
Love is hard. Love is good. I need Jesus.
Peace. Revolution.
p. 270 “We live in an age in which people, when they hear the word Christian, are much more likely to think of people who hate gays than people who love outcasts, and that is a dangerous thing.”
p. 270 Brennan Manning said: “The greatest cause of atheism is Christians who acknowledge Jesus with their lips, then walk out the door and deny him with their lifestyle. That is what an unbelieving world simply finds unbelievable.”
p. 272 “I always say that if we believe terrorists are beyond redemption, we can rip out half of our New Testament, since it was written by a converted terrorist who became an extremist for grace (Paul). It’s what happens when we discover that God has a desperate love for losers just like us.”
p. 278 “That night in Baghdad, I read Psalm 23. It’s the one folks usually read at funerals: ‘Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death.’ And I felt like I was. But I noticed something I had never noticed before. The psalm says that a table is prepared ‘in the presence of my enemies.’ I remember thinking, Why are our enemies there? What if after we die, God brings our enemies to the table and asks them how we treated them? What if Jesus asks them, ‘Shane here claims to follow me. Did he love you? Did he feed you and pray for you like I taught him to?’ What would our enemies say? And how awkward would dinner be with Saddam or George W. or the in-laws?”
That last one makes you think, doesn’t it? If not… never mind.
Love is hard. Love is good. I need Jesus.
Peace. Revolution.
Rock concert followed by comedian
I saw this quote by Jim Hamilton on this site:
"Many churches style their worship services like a rock concert followed by a stand up comedian."
Monday, September 25, 2006
Jesus Is For Losers
I forgot that this was once the title of my blog (awhile ago). I actually think I like it best. At any rate... it is also the title of chapter 9 in Shane Claiborne's book "The Irresistible Revolution."
One good quote from Rich Mullins: “God spoke to Balaam through his ass, and God’s been speaking through them ever since.”
There are many good stories in this chapter, but most are too long to put here. This is one on p. 260...
On 260-261 he shares the words of an old hippie friend who says: "Jesus never talked to a prostitute." Shane says he did. "Then he just calmly looked me in the eye and said, 'Listen, Jesus never talked to a prostitute because he didn't see a prostitute. He just saw a child of God he was madly in love with.'"
The last parapraph of the chapter (266): "When we have new eyes, we can look into the eyes of those we don't even like and see the One we love. We can see God's image in everyone we encounter... We are made of the same dust. We cry the same tears. No one is beyond redemption. And we are free to imagine a revolution that sets both the oppressed and the oppressors free."
...Yep.
One good quote from Rich Mullins: “God spoke to Balaam through his ass, and God’s been speaking through them ever since.”
There are many good stories in this chapter, but most are too long to put here. This is one on p. 260...
"There's another person who felt the world killed the good in him, a young man who was a decorated army veteran in the 1991 Gulf War. I remember reading the letters he wrote home from the war, in which he told his family how hard it was to kill. He told them he felt like he was turning into an animal because day after day it became a little easier to kill. His name was Timothy McVeigh. He came home from serving in the Army Special Forces, horified, crazy, dehumanized, and became the worst domestic terrorist we have ever seen. His essays cry out against the bloodshed he saw and created in Iraq: 'Do people think that government workers in Iraq are any less human than those in Oklahoma City? Do they think that Iraqis don't have families who will grieve and mourn the loss of their loved ones? Do people believe that the killing of foreigners is somehow different than the killing of Americans?' No doubt his mind had been tragically deranged by the myth of redemptive violence. He bombed the federal building in Oklahoma City in hopes that complacent Americans could see what 'collateral damage' looks like and cry out against bloodshed everywhere, even in Iraq. Instead, the government that trained him to kill, killed him, to teach the rest of us that it is wrong to kill. Dear God, liberate us from the logic of redemptive violence."
On 260-261 he shares the words of an old hippie friend who says: "Jesus never talked to a prostitute." Shane says he did. "Then he just calmly looked me in the eye and said, 'Listen, Jesus never talked to a prostitute because he didn't see a prostitute. He just saw a child of God he was madly in love with.'"
The last parapraph of the chapter (266): "When we have new eyes, we can look into the eyes of those we don't even like and see the One we love. We can see God's image in everyone we encounter... We are made of the same dust. We cry the same tears. No one is beyond redemption. And we are free to imagine a revolution that sets both the oppressed and the oppressors free."
...Yep.
Sunday, September 24, 2006
$1.97
I bought gas yesterday for $1.97 a gallon! I couldn't believe it. I can't believe I'm actually posting about it. Do you suppose the oil companies were so ashamed of all the record profits that they felt compelled to lower the price? Nah!!!
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Jesus Made Me Do It
Chapter 8 highlights from Shane Claiborne's "The Irresistible Revolution". I was actually going to slow down on the blogging for awhile, but there were many good stories in this chapter. I'll just drop a few quotes.
On p. 225 he tells what one of his professors told him in college: “All around you, people will be tiptoeing through life, just to arrive at death safely. But dear children, do not tiptoe. Run, hop, skip, or dance, just don’t tiptoe.”
p. 226 (from Soren Kierkegaard), “To want to admire, instead of follow, Christ is not an invention of bad people; no it is more an invention of those who spinelessly want to keep themselves detached at a safe distance from Jesus.”
p. 237 “And I remember what one of those police officers said one night as we were taken to jail. As he was searching me, he found my Bible in my pocket. ‘We’re going to have to take this,’ he said. They had never taken my Bible before, so I asked him why. Smiling, he said, ‘It’s a dangerous book. We can’t have you reading that.’... As I thought more about it, though, it’s true: this is a dangerous book. For centuries it has gotten people killed, beaten, jailed.”
p. 242 “Dance until they kill you, and then we’ll dance some more. That’s how this thing seems to work.”
Hmm. An interesting chapter. Gotta run.
Journey real.
On p. 225 he tells what one of his professors told him in college: “All around you, people will be tiptoeing through life, just to arrive at death safely. But dear children, do not tiptoe. Run, hop, skip, or dance, just don’t tiptoe.”
p. 226 (from Soren Kierkegaard), “To want to admire, instead of follow, Christ is not an invention of bad people; no it is more an invention of those who spinelessly want to keep themselves detached at a safe distance from Jesus.”
p. 237 “And I remember what one of those police officers said one night as we were taken to jail. As he was searching me, he found my Bible in my pocket. ‘We’re going to have to take this,’ he said. They had never taken my Bible before, so I asked him why. Smiling, he said, ‘It’s a dangerous book. We can’t have you reading that.’... As I thought more about it, though, it’s true: this is a dangerous book. For centuries it has gotten people killed, beaten, jailed.”
p. 242 “Dance until they kill you, and then we’ll dance some more. That’s how this thing seems to work.”
Hmm. An interesting chapter. Gotta run.
Journey real.
Friday, September 22, 2006
Devotional
I'm not sharing a devotional with you, right now I just feel more like I'm living one. I am wearing the same clothes I put on yesterday and slept in last night, a gentle rain is tapping on my window, the coffee is warm, and my mind is full. That's what I call a good day (well, other than the fact that I need to clean the bathrooms).
The Bible I am using this year for my daily devotions is the Contemporary English Version. I really, really like it. It's a bit wordy, so it's good to use for small chunks of reading. I actually think it was a freebie from when I attended seminary.
Today I read Proverbs 10. There were four verses that particularly stuck out:
I'm not sure why these were the four verses that stood out. Do you suppose God was highlighting them for me, or was it more a case of something I was already thinking about and my mind gravitated there on its own? Or a combination of the two... God and man working together?
I want my words to be a source of life; I want to be able to overlook the wrongs of others; I want to be sensible in what I say and not speak too much; and to be able to help others with useful instruction.
Sounds like something to devote my life to today. What are you devoted to this day? May God bless you in it.
The Bible I am using this year for my daily devotions is the Contemporary English Version. I really, really like it. It's a bit wordy, so it's good to use for small chunks of reading. I actually think it was a freebie from when I attended seminary.
Today I read Proverbs 10. There were four verses that particularly stuck out:
v. 11 "The words of good people are a source of life, but evil hides behind the words of the wicked."
v. 12 "Hatred stirs up trouble; love overlooks the wrongs that others do."
v. 19 "You will say the wrong thing if you talk too much - so be sensible and watch what you say.:
v. 21 "Many are helped by useful instruction, but fools are killed by their own stupidity."
I'm not sure why these were the four verses that stood out. Do you suppose God was highlighting them for me, or was it more a case of something I was already thinking about and my mind gravitated there on its own? Or a combination of the two... God and man working together?
I want my words to be a source of life; I want to be able to overlook the wrongs of others; I want to be sensible in what I say and not speak too much; and to be able to help others with useful instruction.
Sounds like something to devote my life to today. What are you devoted to this day? May God bless you in it.
The Psalters
Son Isaac saw the group 'The Psalters' the other night. According to him they are "A nomadic group of christian anarchists traveling around playing traditional jewish music fused with african drums with elements of punk rock. They are all homeless and travel around in a school bus playing shows." Wikipedia has a blurb about them HERE. You can check out some of their music on their myspace site HERE. And their regular web site is HERE.
I have to admit, reading about them, while at the same time reading Shane Claiborne's book, does tend to make this type of life rather appealing. And one thing I wonder is... is this really the way it should be? On the one hand I think "yes"... and too many people are just too afraid to take that step. But on the other hand I think "no"... that it's a bit too idealistic and irresponsible. Yet on the THIRD hand (yes, I am a freak of nature) I think... well, maybe for some it is, and for some it's not.
I don't think it's something I could do. And I don't think it has anything to do with fear. I think it has more to do with who I am; who I am finding out that God made me to be. After all, we're all homeless to some extent; we're all on a journey; and I believe we are all musicians - living our songs in a variety of ways. So I don't dismiss groups like this. It sounds like a load of fun. But I have to keep things in perspective too... it's not the ONLY way. But I am glad my son got to experience them, and may he find his way - whatever that may be.
Peace, friends. Journey real.
I have to admit, reading about them, while at the same time reading Shane Claiborne's book, does tend to make this type of life rather appealing. And one thing I wonder is... is this really the way it should be? On the one hand I think "yes"... and too many people are just too afraid to take that step. But on the other hand I think "no"... that it's a bit too idealistic and irresponsible. Yet on the THIRD hand (yes, I am a freak of nature) I think... well, maybe for some it is, and for some it's not.
I don't think it's something I could do. And I don't think it has anything to do with fear. I think it has more to do with who I am; who I am finding out that God made me to be. After all, we're all homeless to some extent; we're all on a journey; and I believe we are all musicians - living our songs in a variety of ways. So I don't dismiss groups like this. It sounds like a load of fun. But I have to keep things in perspective too... it's not the ONLY way. But I am glad my son got to experience them, and may he find his way - whatever that may be.
ADDED LATER:
After looking at this I want to re-phrase/explain... I think my son IS finding his way - better than most. And my daughter too. They are in process just like I am in process. A mistake I have often made is to assume younger people "just don't understand" yet. The truth (IMHO) is that NONE OF US understands yet, and we're all "finding our way." So, God bless their journey, and yours. (I love my kids, and they inspire me so much. They give me hope).
Peace, friends. Journey real.
Defending McLaren
I don't know why I feel a need to defend Brian McLaren (and, geesh, I think I've done it multiple times on this blog). Maybe it's because I feel so connected to his "Dan" character in the NEW KIND OF CHRISTIAN chronicles. Or maybe it has not so much to do with Brian, as with the people (dare I say "Christians"?) who seem intent on tearing him to shreds. At any rate, I had read this post from him some time ago, and just ran across it on Bill Kinnon's blog. It's a good read. Even if you don't like Brian (and how could anybody not like my Brian - Seinfeld moment), it's some good advice no matter who or what you are talking about. Here's a little snippet from it:
Peace. Revolution(ate).
Danno's Dangerous Mind
...I hope that if you are among my good Christian critics, you will aspire to be a good Christian in the way you respond to my writings, even if you think I am a bad Christian for what I write or the questions I raise. We have a chance to model constructive dialogue rather than the religious bickering which has too often characterized all our religious communities. Even if I am as wrong you think I am, what good would it be to prove a wrong person wrong if in the process right people prove themselves mean-spirited, unfair, unreflective, inaccurate, dishonest, or hypocritical?Just something to keep in mind.
One final request. I hope that none of us will spend so much time in internal debate about our beliefs that we neglect putting our beliefs into action. It would be tragic for both you and me if our differences distracted us and others from what religion is supposed to be about: helping widows and orphans and others in need, and keeping ourselves “unspotted from the world,” as James says.
Peace. Revolution(ate).
Danno's Dangerous Mind
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Gargling, Grace, and Glaciers
GARGLING
I wish I could gargle my mind sometimes. Or my life. You know, swish everything around and spit out the crud that causes bad thoughts and deeds.
GRACE
Last night we began our study of Philip Yancey's "What's So Amazing About Grace"... and I was less than gracious. I have been in this stinking bad mood for over a week (another result of my lack of grace), And I was in a mood when the class started. But it got better... until we started discussing an example in the lesson of a woman who was seeking help. She'd been renting her infant daughter for sex so she could buy drugs. And she was asked if she'd ever thought about going to a church for help, and she says, "Church! Why would I ever go there? I already feel terrible about myself. They'd just make me feel worse." I thought, "how true." And sure enough, as we started discussing the situation, I was amazed at how quickly everyone started coming up with reasons why we SHOULDN'T extend grace to this woman. And I kinda got a little "passionate." I hate it when I do the very thing I don't want to do. I'm trying to talk about grace and I end up getting upset. :(
I recently took an online assessment of my personality and one thing it said was that I tend to want to make statements but don't like to have to explain myself or where I'm coming from. And that's very true. It's difficult for me to back up; to 'set the stage' so-to-speak. And that frustrates me. At any rate, I need to apologize to everyone from the class. I'm afraid none of them will come back to be beat over the head with grace anymore.
GLACIERS
This morning I read through my usual blogs, and Jordon Cooper had this nice post about this fantastic article from Eugene Peterson. I highly recommend reading the article (it's kind of long though). In it he talks about a guy named Rick Bass and how he uses the metaphor of a glacier when he is confronted with a difficult or complex task. I will just include the portion from the article:
Yep, gargling, grace, and glaciers... I need all three.
Peace, my friends. Revolution(ate).
I wish I could gargle my mind sometimes. Or my life. You know, swish everything around and spit out the crud that causes bad thoughts and deeds.
GRACE
Last night we began our study of Philip Yancey's "What's So Amazing About Grace"... and I was less than gracious. I have been in this stinking bad mood for over a week (another result of my lack of grace), And I was in a mood when the class started. But it got better... until we started discussing an example in the lesson of a woman who was seeking help. She'd been renting her infant daughter for sex so she could buy drugs. And she was asked if she'd ever thought about going to a church for help, and she says, "Church! Why would I ever go there? I already feel terrible about myself. They'd just make me feel worse." I thought, "how true." And sure enough, as we started discussing the situation, I was amazed at how quickly everyone started coming up with reasons why we SHOULDN'T extend grace to this woman. And I kinda got a little "passionate." I hate it when I do the very thing I don't want to do. I'm trying to talk about grace and I end up getting upset. :(
I recently took an online assessment of my personality and one thing it said was that I tend to want to make statements but don't like to have to explain myself or where I'm coming from. And that's very true. It's difficult for me to back up; to 'set the stage' so-to-speak. And that frustrates me. At any rate, I need to apologize to everyone from the class. I'm afraid none of them will come back to be beat over the head with grace anymore.
GLACIERS
This morning I read through my usual blogs, and Jordon Cooper had this nice post about this fantastic article from Eugene Peterson. I highly recommend reading the article (it's kind of long though). In it he talks about a guy named Rick Bass and how he uses the metaphor of a glacier when he is confronted with a difficult or complex task. I will just include the portion from the article:
Bass wrote an essay recently that I consider required reading for anyone who cares about the contemplative life, immersed as we are in this impatient, shortcut addictive culture. He writes that when confronted with a complex and difficult task, he used to imagine himself laying down one brick after another, brick by brick by brick, to eventually accomplish his aims. But he's recently changed his metaphor from bricks to glaciers. A glacier is the most powerful force the world has ever seen. Literally nothing can stop a glacier.
A glacier is formed by the falling of snow that collects over a period of time. As the snow deepens, the weight compresses, ice forms, then more snow, then more ice, year after year— and nothing happens. Nothing happens until that glacier is 64-feet thick. Then it starts to move and nothing can stop it.
Bass notes that one theory about the origin of glaciers is that they are "the result of a wobble, a hitch, in the earth's rotation. . . . Glaciers get built or not built, simply, miraculously, because the earth is canting a single one-trillionth of a degree in this direction for a long period of time, rather than in that direction." And then this comment: "When I am alone in the woods, and the struggle seems insignificant or futile, or when I am in a public meeting and am being kicked all over the place, I tell myself that little things matter—and I believe that they do. I believe that even if your heart leans just a few degrees to the left or the right of center, that with enough resolve, which can substitute for mass, and enough time, a wobble will one day begin, and the ice will begin to form, where for a long time previous there might have been none. Keep it up for a lifetime or two or three, and then one day—it must—the ice will begin to slide" (The Roadless Yak, Lyons Press).
Yep, gargling, grace, and glaciers... I need all three.
Peace, my friends. Revolution(ate).
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
Pledging Allegiance: When Kingdoms Collide
Oh my. Shane Claiborne has connected with me again in chapter 7 of “The Irresistible Revolution.” So much so that I may have to change the title of my blog back to Peace Revolution before the day is out.
Some of you know that perhaps the biggest turmoil I have experienced since becoming a full-time pastor was when I took the American flag out of the sanctuary. I finally gave in and accepted defeat… or at least decided to work from a different angle. I just don't think any nations flag has any place in the church… unless we have the flag of ALL nations. It’s not that I am anti-American. But it’s a country. Being American does not make you Christian. As Shane says on p. 212, “Christianity was not invented in America… how about that!” I honestly think there are some people who think it was. He is the God of the universe. And we are to love EVERYBODY.
Shane says on p. 193, “It is a dangerous day when we can take the cross out of the church more easily than the flag. No wonder it is hard for seekers to find God nowadays. It’s difficult to know where Christianity ends and America begins.” I wonder what it’s like in other countries?
There is just wayyyy too much for me to include here. Again, it’s not about being anti-American, but about being pro-Jesus.
On 199 he has a nice story about a boy who tells him he figured out who invented guns. When he was 8 years old he said it was, “Satan… because Satan wants us to destroy each other, and God wants us to love each other.” Out of the mouths of babes…
Perhaps the best quote in the book so far… on p.207: “I have pledged allegiance to a King who loved evildoers so much he died for them, teaching us that there is something worth dying for but nothing worth killing for.” Somehow pledging allegiance to a flag seems so… small.
Just one more quote (there are so many good ones I am leaving out). P. 219, “Too often we just do what makes sense to us and ask God to bless it. In the Beatitudes, God tells us what God blesses – the poor, the peacemakers, the hungry, those who mourn, those who show mercy – so we should not ask God’s blessing on a declaration that we will have no mercy on evildoers. We know all too well that we have a God who shows mercy on evildoers, for if he didn’t, we’d all be in big trouble, and for that, this evildoer is very glad. Rather than do what makes sense to us and ask God’s blessing, we’d do better to surround ourselves with those whom God promises to bless, and then we need not ask God’s blessing. It’s just what God does.”
I don’t mean to step on anyone’s nationalistic pride… but please don’t tell me I have the freedom to be a follower of Jesus because of military strength or the place I live. Jesus was not an American. Not that there’s anything wrong with that… but let’s just be clear.
That’s all for now. Peace to all. Let’s make it a revolution.
Some of you know that perhaps the biggest turmoil I have experienced since becoming a full-time pastor was when I took the American flag out of the sanctuary. I finally gave in and accepted defeat… or at least decided to work from a different angle. I just don't think any nations flag has any place in the church… unless we have the flag of ALL nations. It’s not that I am anti-American. But it’s a country. Being American does not make you Christian. As Shane says on p. 212, “Christianity was not invented in America… how about that!” I honestly think there are some people who think it was. He is the God of the universe. And we are to love EVERYBODY.
Shane says on p. 193, “It is a dangerous day when we can take the cross out of the church more easily than the flag. No wonder it is hard for seekers to find God nowadays. It’s difficult to know where Christianity ends and America begins.” I wonder what it’s like in other countries?
There is just wayyyy too much for me to include here. Again, it’s not about being anti-American, but about being pro-Jesus.
On 199 he has a nice story about a boy who tells him he figured out who invented guns. When he was 8 years old he said it was, “Satan… because Satan wants us to destroy each other, and God wants us to love each other.” Out of the mouths of babes…
Perhaps the best quote in the book so far… on p.207: “I have pledged allegiance to a King who loved evildoers so much he died for them, teaching us that there is something worth dying for but nothing worth killing for.” Somehow pledging allegiance to a flag seems so… small.
Just one more quote (there are so many good ones I am leaving out). P. 219, “Too often we just do what makes sense to us and ask God to bless it. In the Beatitudes, God tells us what God blesses – the poor, the peacemakers, the hungry, those who mourn, those who show mercy – so we should not ask God’s blessing on a declaration that we will have no mercy on evildoers. We know all too well that we have a God who shows mercy on evildoers, for if he didn’t, we’d all be in big trouble, and for that, this evildoer is very glad. Rather than do what makes sense to us and ask God’s blessing, we’d do better to surround ourselves with those whom God promises to bless, and then we need not ask God’s blessing. It’s just what God does.”
I don’t mean to step on anyone’s nationalistic pride… but please don’t tell me I have the freedom to be a follower of Jesus because of military strength or the place I live. Jesus was not an American. Not that there’s anything wrong with that… but let’s just be clear.
That’s all for now. Peace to all. Let’s make it a revolution.
How 'bout you?
| Your Linguistic Profile: |
| 70% General American English |
| 15% Upper Midwestern |
| 5% Dixie |
| 5% Midwestern |
| 0% Yankee |
| You've Changed 48% in 10 Years |
 You've done a good job changing with the times, but deep down, you're still the same person. You're clothes, job, and friends may have changed some - but it hasn't changed you. |
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
A coupla quotes
Hey... now that my stinkin' internet is working again I have two quotes from "The Irresistible Revolution" that have been on my mind today (I called my ISP, and they actually told me they were replacing some hardware on the tower I use - man, that's like... a straight answer! But I've been isolated almost all day). Okay...
Shane says on p.169, “I am convinced that most of the terribly disturbing things that are happening in our world in the name of Christ and Christianity are primarily the result not of malicious people but of bad theology.”
Yeah. And it's often the one's who know the biggest words who seem to be the most screwed up (and believe me, I 'know' some big words - just can't use 'em in sentences).
Gandhi is quoted on p. 170, “There is enough for everyone’s need, but there is not enough for everyone’s greed.”
If that doesn't make you stop and think the next time you want a carmel vanilla latte! Hmm.
Okay, I have some stuff to do. Peace. Revolution.
Shane says on p.169, “I am convinced that most of the terribly disturbing things that are happening in our world in the name of Christ and Christianity are primarily the result not of malicious people but of bad theology.”
Yeah. And it's often the one's who know the biggest words who seem to be the most screwed up (and believe me, I 'know' some big words - just can't use 'em in sentences).
Gandhi is quoted on p. 170, “There is enough for everyone’s need, but there is not enough for everyone’s greed.”
If that doesn't make you stop and think the next time you want a carmel vanilla latte! Hmm.
Okay, I have some stuff to do. Peace. Revolution.
Economics of Rebirth
Today I read chapter 6 of Shane Claiborne’s “The Irresistible Revolution.” I have to admit, I started to get a little burnt on his message and felt a bit of condescension from him in this chapter. Either that or it’s just the fact that I’m in a bad mood. But you can only complain about how rotten some people are, and tell about all the good things you do for so long before it starts to sound… well, you know. At any rate, he did bring up one item that has been on my mind lately.
On p. 159 he says, “When the church becomes a place of brokerage rather than an organic community, she ceases to be alive. She ceases to be something we are, the living bride of Christ. The church becomes a distribution center, a place where the poor come to get stuff and the rich come to dump stuff. Both go away satisfied (the rich feel good, the poor get clothed and fed), but no one leaves transformed. No radical new community is formed. And Jesus did not set up a program, but modeled a way of living that incarnated the reign of God…”
Also, on p. 158, in reference to Matt. 25 when Jesus talks about caring for the least among us, Shane says, “I’m just not convinced that Jesus is going to say, ‘When I was hungry, you gave a check to the United Way and they fed me,’ or, ‘When I was naked, you donated clothes to the Salvation Army and they clothed me.’ Jesus is not seeking distant acts of charity. He seeks concrete acts of love: ‘you fed me… you visited me… you welcomed me… you clothed me.”
Our church does this thing where we take blankets and coats and stuff in the winter, and underwear and t-shirts and stuff in the summer, to the homeless of our city. There are only a handful of people that take it, but they always seem to come back fired up. The problem is, they have also started to get a bit discouraged from time to time – because not as many people go anymore; and not as many donations come in; and people have started to complain about us always bugging people for more “stuff”; and on and on and on. And… maybe it’s because we’re going about it all wrong. Rather than it being a “church project”… maybe we need to teach more that we are to do this as INDIVIDUALS more, or families, or small groups. It’s not something we should do “on occasion”, it’s more a way we should just “BE.” Like, if someone feels led to do this, they should just do it, and not ask or expect others to be involved in something that the Spirit is leading them to do. I don’t know. I’m just thinking out loud.
Sometimes I have wanted to do something, and when I tell people about it, they start rattling off all the ways we can make it a church program and who would really like to be involved and when and where and how and… and then I don’t really want to do it anymore. I always thought it was because I wasn’t a people-person. And that may be part of it. But maybe it’s because at some point we’ve got to quit “programming” ministry, and just start “ministering.”
I don’t know. I’m just writing my thoughts here. That’s usually all that happens to them. I’m tired.
On p. 159 he says, “When the church becomes a place of brokerage rather than an organic community, she ceases to be alive. She ceases to be something we are, the living bride of Christ. The church becomes a distribution center, a place where the poor come to get stuff and the rich come to dump stuff. Both go away satisfied (the rich feel good, the poor get clothed and fed), but no one leaves transformed. No radical new community is formed. And Jesus did not set up a program, but modeled a way of living that incarnated the reign of God…”
Also, on p. 158, in reference to Matt. 25 when Jesus talks about caring for the least among us, Shane says, “I’m just not convinced that Jesus is going to say, ‘When I was hungry, you gave a check to the United Way and they fed me,’ or, ‘When I was naked, you donated clothes to the Salvation Army and they clothed me.’ Jesus is not seeking distant acts of charity. He seeks concrete acts of love: ‘you fed me… you visited me… you welcomed me… you clothed me.”
Our church does this thing where we take blankets and coats and stuff in the winter, and underwear and t-shirts and stuff in the summer, to the homeless of our city. There are only a handful of people that take it, but they always seem to come back fired up. The problem is, they have also started to get a bit discouraged from time to time – because not as many people go anymore; and not as many donations come in; and people have started to complain about us always bugging people for more “stuff”; and on and on and on. And… maybe it’s because we’re going about it all wrong. Rather than it being a “church project”… maybe we need to teach more that we are to do this as INDIVIDUALS more, or families, or small groups. It’s not something we should do “on occasion”, it’s more a way we should just “BE.” Like, if someone feels led to do this, they should just do it, and not ask or expect others to be involved in something that the Spirit is leading them to do. I don’t know. I’m just thinking out loud.
Sometimes I have wanted to do something, and when I tell people about it, they start rattling off all the ways we can make it a church program and who would really like to be involved and when and where and how and… and then I don’t really want to do it anymore. I always thought it was because I wasn’t a people-person. And that may be part of it. But maybe it’s because at some point we’ve got to quit “programming” ministry, and just start “ministering.”
I don’t know. I’m just writing my thoughts here. That’s usually all that happens to them. I’m tired.
Monday, September 18, 2006
What the heck...
So what do you make of this? In Shane Claiborne's The Irresistible Revolution (p.98), he tells of a time the late Rich Mullins spoke at a Wheaton College chapel service (that's the only good thing I can say about WC). Rich said:
"You guys are all into that born again thing, which is great. We do need to be born again, since Jesus said that to a guy named Nicodemus. But if you tell me I have to be born again to enter the kingdom of God, I can tell you that you have to sell everything you have and give it to the poor, because Jesus said that to one guy too... (and he paused in the awkward silence)... But I guess that's why God invented highlighters, so we can highlight the parts we like and ignore the rest."Hmf. Any thoughts?
Statement? Fact? Lie? What?
How do you read this sentence? What does it make you think?
CLARIFICATION & EXPLANATION (added later)
There are many ways one can read things on the internet, or written word in general. For instance, you could read this comment as "EVERYBODY can (just) go to hell!" And you would think this person was mad-at-the-world. They were fed up and confused and were having a very bad day (or week, or month, or year). Actually, for most of the last week that is how I have felt.
However, this statement could also be very theological. "Everybody CAN go to hell" signifies not only that one believes hell exists, but that WE actually have a say in whether or not we will end up there. Not everyone believes this. Some people believe everyone will go to heaven. Some people believe only God determines who will or will not go to heaven (or hell). Some believe our "fate" is pre-determined. Some believe in free will. So... your take on this statement can be quite telling theologically.
I believe the overall statement we can glean from this is that when we write things, they can be taken very differently by different people, and they can often be understood in ways that we had no intention of them meaning. So... there ya go.
"Everybody can go to hell."
CLARIFICATION & EXPLANATION (added later)
There are many ways one can read things on the internet, or written word in general. For instance, you could read this comment as "EVERYBODY can (just) go to hell!" And you would think this person was mad-at-the-world. They were fed up and confused and were having a very bad day (or week, or month, or year). Actually, for most of the last week that is how I have felt.
However, this statement could also be very theological. "Everybody CAN go to hell" signifies not only that one believes hell exists, but that WE actually have a say in whether or not we will end up there. Not everyone believes this. Some people believe everyone will go to heaven. Some people believe only God determines who will or will not go to heaven (or hell). Some believe our "fate" is pre-determined. Some believe in free will. So... your take on this statement can be quite telling theologically.
I believe the overall statement we can glean from this is that when we write things, they can be taken very differently by different people, and they can often be understood in ways that we had no intention of them meaning. So... there ya go.
On a wire in the rain
Two birds are sitting on an electrical wire, centered perfectly between the poles on either side, and it is pouring down rain. I wonder what they are thinking. Or if they do think. Is it a good day or are they miserable?
Why am I so mesmerized by this?
Another Way of Doing Life
Chapter 5 of Shane Claiborne's The Irresistible Revolution. Man, this was a looong chapter, and oh so good. I can't possibly put everything worthwhile in this post - so, if I haven't said it already, you need to read this book. But be warned, it will mess you up!
(p. 117) The very first paragraph: "If you ask most people what Christians believe, they can tell you, 'Christians believe that Jesus is God's Son and that Jesus rose from the dead.' But if you ask the average person how Christians live, they are struck silent. We have not shown the world another way of doing life. Christians pretty much live like everybody else; they just sprinkle a little Jesus in along the way."
(p.119) "We knew that the world cannot afford the American dream and that the good news is that there is another dream." ('The world cannot afford the American dream' - that is good. Is that why debt is so high?).
(p.123) "Sometimes we speak to change the world; other times we speak to keep the world from changing us."
(p.127) "Many spiritual seekers have not been able to hear the words of Christians because the lives of Christians have been making so much horrible noise. It can be hard to hear the gentle whisper of the Spirit amid the noise of Christendom."
(p.129) The words of late Catholic bishop Dom Helder Camara: "When I fed the hungry, they called me a saint. When I asked why people are hungry, they called me a communist."
(p.132) "...today people crave the spectacular. People are drawn to lights and celebrities, to arenas and megachurches. In the desert, Jesus was tempted by the spectacular - to throw himself from the temple so that people might believe - to shock and awe people, if you will. Today the church is tempted by the spectacular, to do big, miraculous things so people might believe, but Jesus has called us to littleness and compares our revolution to the little mustard seed, to yeast making its way through dough, slowly infecting this dark world with love." (This was maybe the best quote/point of the chapter. Maybe - there are many).
(p.138) "There are plenty of people who are miserable in their jobs, for they have not listened to God's call." (He does a good job pointing out that not everyone who meets Jesus will sell everything they have, quit their job, and be poor. Some will be transformed in such a way that they keep their vocation, but change how they do it, or what they do with their resources.)
(p.145) Maybe this is the best quote so far: "I'm not sure we need more churches. What we really need is A CHURCH." He follows this by quoting an unnamed preacher who said, "We've got to unite ourselves as one body. Because Jesus is coming back, and he's coming back for a bride, not a harem."
(p.149) "We need converts in the best sense of the word, people who are marked by the renewing of their minds and imaginations, who no longer conform to the pattern that is destroying our world. Otherwise, we have only believers, and believers are a dime-a-dozen nowadays. What the world needs is people who believe so much in another world that they cannot help but begin enacting it now." (Actually, maybe THIS is the best quote so far).
(p.150) "We can believe in CPR, but people will remain dead until someone breathes new life into them."
(p.153) "When we are trying to teach kids not to hit each other and they see a government use violence to bring about change, we start to consider what it means to give witness to a peace that is not like the world gives (John 14:27)."
All I can say is... convicting. So convicting. I am nothing.
Peace, friends. There is a revolution.
(p. 117) The very first paragraph: "If you ask most people what Christians believe, they can tell you, 'Christians believe that Jesus is God's Son and that Jesus rose from the dead.' But if you ask the average person how Christians live, they are struck silent. We have not shown the world another way of doing life. Christians pretty much live like everybody else; they just sprinkle a little Jesus in along the way."
(p.119) "We knew that the world cannot afford the American dream and that the good news is that there is another dream." ('The world cannot afford the American dream' - that is good. Is that why debt is so high?).
(p.123) "Sometimes we speak to change the world; other times we speak to keep the world from changing us."
(p.127) "Many spiritual seekers have not been able to hear the words of Christians because the lives of Christians have been making so much horrible noise. It can be hard to hear the gentle whisper of the Spirit amid the noise of Christendom."
(p.129) The words of late Catholic bishop Dom Helder Camara: "When I fed the hungry, they called me a saint. When I asked why people are hungry, they called me a communist."
(p.132) "...today people crave the spectacular. People are drawn to lights and celebrities, to arenas and megachurches. In the desert, Jesus was tempted by the spectacular - to throw himself from the temple so that people might believe - to shock and awe people, if you will. Today the church is tempted by the spectacular, to do big, miraculous things so people might believe, but Jesus has called us to littleness and compares our revolution to the little mustard seed, to yeast making its way through dough, slowly infecting this dark world with love." (This was maybe the best quote/point of the chapter. Maybe - there are many).
(p.138) "There are plenty of people who are miserable in their jobs, for they have not listened to God's call." (He does a good job pointing out that not everyone who meets Jesus will sell everything they have, quit their job, and be poor. Some will be transformed in such a way that they keep their vocation, but change how they do it, or what they do with their resources.)
(p.145) Maybe this is the best quote so far: "I'm not sure we need more churches. What we really need is A CHURCH." He follows this by quoting an unnamed preacher who said, "We've got to unite ourselves as one body. Because Jesus is coming back, and he's coming back for a bride, not a harem."
(p.149) "We need converts in the best sense of the word, people who are marked by the renewing of their minds and imaginations, who no longer conform to the pattern that is destroying our world. Otherwise, we have only believers, and believers are a dime-a-dozen nowadays. What the world needs is people who believe so much in another world that they cannot help but begin enacting it now." (Actually, maybe THIS is the best quote so far).
(p.150) "We can believe in CPR, but people will remain dead until someone breathes new life into them."
(p.153) "When we are trying to teach kids not to hit each other and they see a government use violence to bring about change, we start to consider what it means to give witness to a peace that is not like the world gives (John 14:27)."
All I can say is... convicting. So convicting. I am nothing.
Peace, friends. There is a revolution.
Weak Soul or Just Inept
One of my good friends (though we've never met, but I believe we would be good friends if we did - except he's much more intelligent than me) used a phrase in his blog recently that really struck me as "mine." He said of someone, "the only thing he was confident of was his ineptitude". He wasn't referring to me, but he was unknowingly describing me.
Then, on the blog of another of my "friends I have never met" I read this little ditty:
So it all has me wondering... am I inept, or do I have a weak soul? (I'm not looking for an answer, this is an introspective post).
I do feel so "weak-souled." I have never liked competition. I remember after one high school football game I got a "talking to" because I wanted to quit because I didn't like hitting people. Oh, I did it... but I didn't like how it made me feel. And I was the most valuable player on the team that year!
I have the same aversion to competition and "hitting" in conversations too. It's not that I can't do it, or that I sometimes don't do it, and I might even do it well, I don't know. But I don't like it. I hate it when I get caught up in a conversation and find that I got off on a "proving-somebody-wrong" tangent. I hate it even worse when someone feels the need to do that to me. Especially the "blind-sided hit." You know, when you least expect it. And then you wonder how foolish you looked while receiving it (or giving it).
The only time I ever remember being knocked out in a football game (I actually did see stars) was on a hit from one of my own teammates. I was running down field (a running back at the time), and it was like I locked eyes with my teammate and we just ran right smack into one another. It hurt, and it probably looked really, really foolish to everyone in the stands. I'm not sure if I even want to unpack that as it relates to conversations I have with other pastors (or Christians).
Anyway, this is a meandering stream of nonsense. And still I wonder... am I weak-souled, or simply inept? Or is there a difference?
peace.
Then, on the blog of another of my "friends I have never met" I read this little ditty:
Abba Sisoes the Theban said to his disciple: Tell me what you see in me and in turn I will tell you what I see in you. His disciple said to him: You are good in soul, but a little harsh. The old man said to him: You are good but your soul is not tough.
So it all has me wondering... am I inept, or do I have a weak soul? (I'm not looking for an answer, this is an introspective post).
I do feel so "weak-souled." I have never liked competition. I remember after one high school football game I got a "talking to" because I wanted to quit because I didn't like hitting people. Oh, I did it... but I didn't like how it made me feel. And I was the most valuable player on the team that year!
I have the same aversion to competition and "hitting" in conversations too. It's not that I can't do it, or that I sometimes don't do it, and I might even do it well, I don't know. But I don't like it. I hate it when I get caught up in a conversation and find that I got off on a "proving-somebody-wrong" tangent. I hate it even worse when someone feels the need to do that to me. Especially the "blind-sided hit." You know, when you least expect it. And then you wonder how foolish you looked while receiving it (or giving it).
The only time I ever remember being knocked out in a football game (I actually did see stars) was on a hit from one of my own teammates. I was running down field (a running back at the time), and it was like I locked eyes with my teammate and we just ran right smack into one another. It hurt, and it probably looked really, really foolish to everyone in the stands. I'm not sure if I even want to unpack that as it relates to conversations I have with other pastors (or Christians).
Anyway, this is a meandering stream of nonsense. And still I wonder... am I weak-souled, or simply inept? Or is there a difference?
peace.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Were You At Ossian Days
Hey... I just remembered something. Someone tapped me on the shoulder while I was listening to my sons band play at Ossian Days, and they said something about the "dad of the guy in the band." I couldn't hear a thing they were saying, so I just smiled and nodded. WAS SOMEONE WHO READS MY BLOG AT OSSIAN DAYS??? If so, I'm sorry I didn't respond. But I couldn't hear you, and I didn't recognize you. I wasn't even thinking about the fact that I had invited people to attend. Sorry. (I DID have my "I think therefore I blog" shirt on). :)
Anyway, maybe I'm mistaken, but I just remembered that. Drop me a line if you were there (other than you, Tom. I know you were there. And thanks for coming, by the way).
Peace.
Anyway, maybe I'm mistaken, but I just remembered that. Drop me a line if you were there (other than you, Tom. I know you were there. And thanks for coming, by the way).
Peace.
Worship Under the Pavilion
This was the set-up for our worship gathering this morning. It was a B-E-A-U-T-I-F-U-L day!!! There was just a little breeze, and it was a tad chilly, but other than that it was perfect. I think the environment made people feel more at ease - they were more conversational, and NOBODY nodded off! That never happens. I liked doing this - other than the wind blowing in my lapel mic. 
This was my view. Isn't this a great-looking bunch of people (especially that chicky in the front row!). We were rather slim in numbers today - as I expected. You know, some people just aren't up for doing something fun. But it went well. I just wish I hadn't been so cranky this morning. And the worst thing was... it didn't have anything to do with anybody there. What's stupid is... it had to do with internet discussions. Man, I gotta get a different life. But this was a nice time of worship this morning.
Sundays Off - Ossian Days
The boys did one fine show for Ossian Days. They played LOUD - probably the loudest I've ever heard them. But it was a great show. I am amazed every time I see them. They actually had a decent crowd even. It helped that you could hear them all up and down main street, so people were coming and going all night. And they very obligingly played my request - "Watching Words". It's a song they wrote some years back. They only played it after much prodding from some others in the audience. I think they should make the Ossian Days gig an annual event! Good job, guys!
Here's a shot of Isaac and Graham. This might have been during "Like A Rolling Stone" - which I thought was the best song they did all night. Isaac sang it with much passion, probably much more so after just seeing Dylan do it. But they made it their own. Note the guy with the XXX Church shirt. He loaned Isaac his Marshall half-stack for the show because Isaac's amp took a crap Friday night. It sounded nice.
Here are the three amigo's waiting for the band to dispatch the drunk lady. Isaac's girly friend, Laura; then my favorite daughter, Carrie Jade (intently reading a text message, no doubt); and Vice-President of the Wabash Liberation Army, Alex (brother of Sundays Off bass player Graham). I believe a good time was had by all.
Saturday, September 16, 2006
When Comfort Becomes Uncomfortable
Chapter 4 of Shane Claiborne's The Irresistible Revolution. Man... this book is so convicting. So good. Again I feel odd even sharing bits and pieces, because it just doesn't do it justice. It's like cheating or something. But... here are some highlights.
The chapter is basically about Shane's internship at Willowcreek Community Church, and attending Wheaton College - immediately following his time in Calcutta, India. I have personal stories about both places, so it was especially interesting to me. Quite the extreme for Shane, and I would think most people wouldn't have survived it, especially with such grace.
On the first page he quotes Mother Teresa: "...it is among the wealthy that we can find the most terrible poverty of all - loneliness." Yep. I agree.
On p. 96 is a quote I have used before: "...when Jesus said, 'Love your enemies,' he meant not to kill them." This came from 'just-war' debates.
Some good stuff about Rich Mullins.
And a quote from Tony Campolo (one of his teachers at Eastern): "Jesus never says to the poor, 'Come find the church,' but he says to those of us in the church, 'Go into the world and find the poor, hungry, homeless, imprisoned,' Jesus in his disguises."
Shane says on 108: "And folks were asking me what I was going to do when I graduated from college. People always want to define you by what you do. I started by saying, 'I'm not too concerned with what I am going to do. I am more interested in who I am becoming. I want to be a lover of God and people.'" And... "The question is not whether you will be a doctor or a lawyer but what kind of doctor or lawyer you will be." And... Mother Teresa said, "Do not worry about your career. Concern yourself with your vocation, and that is to be lovers of Jesus." So he filled out all his graduation forms, "vocational lover." :) (This is all good advice for my own kids) :)
Perhaps the most powerful idea for me in this chapter is on p.112. His senior thesis was on "The American Jesus" and he says, "I knew what Cornell West meant when he said, 'We've taken the blood at the foot of the cross and turned it into Kool-Aid' and marketed it all over the world." Wow! Yeah. I'm a bit speechless. Convicted. Wow. Think 'Pop Christianity' and 'Seeker-sensitivity.' Not that we shouldn't be sensitive, but... Wow.
There was more here, but maybe that's enough for one days my little kiddies. I am worn out and my mind is ablaze. I am uncomfortable.
Peace. Revolution. Those words go together even better today.
The chapter is basically about Shane's internship at Willowcreek Community Church, and attending Wheaton College - immediately following his time in Calcutta, India. I have personal stories about both places, so it was especially interesting to me. Quite the extreme for Shane, and I would think most people wouldn't have survived it, especially with such grace.
On the first page he quotes Mother Teresa: "...it is among the wealthy that we can find the most terrible poverty of all - loneliness." Yep. I agree.
On p. 96 is a quote I have used before: "...when Jesus said, 'Love your enemies,' he meant not to kill them." This came from 'just-war' debates.
Some good stuff about Rich Mullins.
And a quote from Tony Campolo (one of his teachers at Eastern): "Jesus never says to the poor, 'Come find the church,' but he says to those of us in the church, 'Go into the world and find the poor, hungry, homeless, imprisoned,' Jesus in his disguises."
Shane says on 108: "And folks were asking me what I was going to do when I graduated from college. People always want to define you by what you do. I started by saying, 'I'm not too concerned with what I am going to do. I am more interested in who I am becoming. I want to be a lover of God and people.'" And... "The question is not whether you will be a doctor or a lawyer but what kind of doctor or lawyer you will be." And... Mother Teresa said, "Do not worry about your career. Concern yourself with your vocation, and that is to be lovers of Jesus." So he filled out all his graduation forms, "vocational lover." :) (This is all good advice for my own kids) :)
Perhaps the most powerful idea for me in this chapter is on p.112. His senior thesis was on "The American Jesus" and he says, "I knew what Cornell West meant when he said, 'We've taken the blood at the foot of the cross and turned it into Kool-Aid' and marketed it all over the world." Wow! Yeah. I'm a bit speechless. Convicted. Wow. Think 'Pop Christianity' and 'Seeker-sensitivity.' Not that we shouldn't be sensitive, but... Wow.
There was more here, but maybe that's enough for one days my little kiddies. I am worn out and my mind is ablaze. I am uncomfortable.
Peace. Revolution. Those words go together even better today.
Friday, September 15, 2006
Worship outside
This is where we will be worshiping this Sunday morning (hopefully). Last week we circled the place and prayed over it. I think it would be just awesome to hold all our worship services here (weather permitting). Kind of give that sense of "church without walls." Although, perhaps that would give a false sense. Because the church isn't where we worship. It's not even the worship service on Sunday (or whatever day you gather to worship).
One of my council members summed it up the other night when he told us he was starting a Bible study where he works. At lunch time, twice a month, everybody in his department (service department at a car dealership) is going to get together for Bible study. He said it's his idea of "church without walls." Yeah... exactly.
Church isn't just about what happens on Sunday. It isn't just about what happens in a particular building on a particular day. It's about God's people being... God's people.
At any rate, the group of God's people I am a part of is going to gather to worship Him under this pavilion this coming Sunday. You know... I really love my church. I love the people that make it up. I have been blessed.
Peace. Revolution.
Nooma: Bullhorn critique
Wednesday night we were supposed to begin our "What's So Amazing About Grace" study, but several people couldn't be there the first week, so we moved it back a week. Instead, we watched the NOOMA video "Bullhorn." I have viewed 8 of the 13 Nooma video's, and again, this one was of exceptional quality. But this was definately my least favorite. I understand what they were saying about people who stand on street corners and "yell" at people about the need to repent - I don't like that either. But I actually ended up feeling sorry for the guy depicting the "Bullhorn Guy." They really seemed to be making fun of him, which kinda left a bad taste in my mouth.
I will say, at the end, Rob asked (kinda for those who were making fun of Bullhorn Guy)... so, what are YOU doing? Yeah, it's one thing to cut down what other people are doing that we don't like, but if all we're doing is complaining about them... we're really doing less-than-nothing.
So, while I didn't really care for this video as much as the other ones... it's still 'better than your average bear' so-to-speak. I understand they can't ALL be phenominal. I'm glad they're making them.
Peace, friends.
I feel old
This is our dog, Bogie. He's a Pembroke Welsch Corgie, and not just a little overweight. The poor guy has been limping around all week. Not sure what he did to his front left leg. Last night I even had to carry him from our bedroom out to his spot here on his rug in front of the door. He sits for HOURS and just looks out the front door. Kinda how I feel some days.The thing is... if Bogie is getting old, then what does that make me? The kids are gone, and now I'm getting sentimental about the dog. Geesh. What have I become? The house would REALLY be lonely if something happens to him.
I was already feeling old about the kids leaving, the dog growing old, and yesterday I was made fun of by several young fuddy duddy's... then I ran across this piece about how outdated writing checks is. Heck, I never even graduated to the writing checks department. I barely know how to fill one out. Jane does that. I have never had a debit card. Don't know the first thing about them. I don't have an ipod or mp3 player (other than the computer), no surround sound big-screen tv... we don't even have a freakin' cd player in our house (again, other than computer and dvd player - but we don't have a cassette deck or turntable either).
I just realized last night that I will be 44 in November. And it's not that that is an ancient age... but I feel like a has-been. I hate birthdays.
I'm pretty pathetic, aren't I? I haven't had a good "whine" post in awhile. You were probably hoping I had gotten over that. Sorry. I think I'll go lay on the floor with Bogie. Look out the window for 10 or 12 hours. Take a nice nap.
Arf.
Thursday, September 14, 2006
In Search of a Christian
Chapter 3 of Shane Claiborne's The Irresistible Revolution is mostly about his time spent with Mother Teresa in Calcutta, India. I don't feel like I can really even post about it... It's kinda like it would be 'kissing & telling' or something. I don't know. I think it's just something you need to read for yourself.It is pretty "coincidental" that earlier this morning I posted something "momma t" had said, and I had no idea I was going to be reading about her later. Hmm.
I will give you a few quotes from the chapter:
- p. 71 "...it looked like some time back we had stopped living Christianity and just started studying it." Ouch!
- p. 71 (from Soren Kierkegaard) "The matter is quite simple. The Bible is very easy to understand. But we Christians are a bunch of scheming swindlers. We pretend to be unable to understand it because we know very well that the minute we understand, we are obligated to act accordingly." Double ouch!!
- p. 78 (one Mother Teresa quote) "We can do no great things, just small things with great love. It is not how much you do, but how much love you put into doing it."
- p. 89 In the last paragraph Shane says, "I learned from the lepers that leprosy is a disease of numbness. The contagion numbs the skin, and the nerves can no longer feel as the body wastes away. In fact, the way it was detected was by rubbing a feather across the skin, and if the person could not feel it, they were diagnosed with the illness. To treat it, we would dig out or dissect the scarred tissue until the person could feel again. As I left Calcutta, it occurred to me that I was returning to a land of lepers, a land of people who had forgotten how to feel, to laugh, to cry, a land haunted by numbness. Could we learn to feel again?"
Yeah. While I was reading this chapter I kept thinking, "I need to go to India, or Haiti, or somewhere where there is much suffering." But after reading the last paragraph I realized... I am already in the midst of much suffering. There just might be more lepers here in the U.S. than anywhere else in the world. Can we learn to feel again? I hope so.
Peace. Revolution.
Mother Teresa on prayer
Brother Maynard over at subversive influence posted this nice piece on God Complains About Prayer. I especially liked this quote at the end by Mother Teresa:
Kind of reminds me of those times when you're with a good friend and you just... "hang out." That's the kind of friend I want to be with God. You know, where neither one of us has to try to impress the other. Hmm. I am glad Br. M. posted this today.
Peace. Yep, that's part of the revolution.
Mother Teresa was once asked by an interviewer what she said to God when she prayed. “I don’t say much,” replied Mother Teresa, “mostly I just listen.” “And what does God say to you?” asked the interviewer. “He doesn’t say much,” she replied. “Mostly He just listens. And if you don’t understand that, I can’t explain it to you.”
Kind of reminds me of those times when you're with a good friend and you just... "hang out." That's the kind of friend I want to be with God. You know, where neither one of us has to try to impress the other. Hmm. I am glad Br. M. posted this today.
Peace. Yep, that's part of the revolution.
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
a word of advice...
"Don't let the world steal your soul. Being a Christian is about choosing Jesus and deciding to do something incredibly daring with your life."- (advice given to S. Claiborne from a college professor), p.18, The Irresistible Revolution
Resurrecting Church
Chapter 2 of Shane Claiborne's "Irresistible Revolution" deals with his discovery of and interaction with the Kensington Welfare Rights Union.. It was a group of homeless woman and children who moved into an abandoned Catholic Cathedral in Philadelphia. It was a good chapter.
This is where the quote, "How can we worship a homeless man on Sunday and ignore one on Monday?" came from. I had read this before. A powerful quote (Jesus was homeless, you know).
He shared the story of one day receiving a box of donations from one of the wealthy congregations in town. Written on the box were the words, "For the homeless." It was filled with bags of microwave popcorn. How do homeless people, without electricity and microwaves, cook microwave popcorn? It's sad how far the church has become removed from the poor.
He then talks about losing hope in the church. But a friend reminds him it's not the church, it's the institution. That THEY are the church too. So they decided to stop complaining about the church they saw and set their hearts on becoming the church they dreamed of. Yeah... I need to do that!
This is also where he shares about the old comic strip: Two guys are talking to each other, and one of them says he has a question for God. He wants to ask why God allows all of this poverty and war and suffering to exist in the world. And his friend says, "Well, why don't you ask?" The fellow shakes his head and says he is scared. When his friend asks why, he mutters, "I'm scared God will ask me the same question." (Yeah, that's convicting, isn't it? At least it OUGHT TO BE).
He ends this really good chapter with this sentence: "We do indeed have a God of resurrection, a God who can create beauty from the messes we make of our world."
Peace, friends. It's a revolution.
This is where the quote, "How can we worship a homeless man on Sunday and ignore one on Monday?" came from. I had read this before. A powerful quote (Jesus was homeless, you know).
He shared the story of one day receiving a box of donations from one of the wealthy congregations in town. Written on the box were the words, "For the homeless." It was filled with bags of microwave popcorn. How do homeless people, without electricity and microwaves, cook microwave popcorn? It's sad how far the church has become removed from the poor.
He then talks about losing hope in the church. But a friend reminds him it's not the church, it's the institution. That THEY are the church too. So they decided to stop complaining about the church they saw and set their hearts on becoming the church they dreamed of. Yeah... I need to do that!
This is also where he shares about the old comic strip: Two guys are talking to each other, and one of them says he has a question for God. He wants to ask why God allows all of this poverty and war and suffering to exist in the world. And his friend says, "Well, why don't you ask?" The fellow shakes his head and says he is scared. When his friend asks why, he mutters, "I'm scared God will ask me the same question." (Yeah, that's convicting, isn't it? At least it OUGHT TO BE).
He ends this really good chapter with this sentence: "We do indeed have a God of resurrection, a God who can create beauty from the messes we make of our world."
Peace, friends. It's a revolution.
Today's Prayer
Psalm 138:8 (CEV)
"Your love never fails.
You have made us what we are.
Don't give up on us now!"
Amen.
"Your love never fails.
You have made us what we are.
Don't give up on us now!"
Amen.
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
Sundays Off Saturday Night
Saturday night I get to see my favorite band in all the world - SUNDAYS OFF. They are playing in Ossian, Indiana around 7:30 pm, at the Ossian Days festival. Just go to main street and listen for the music.This is an old picture - I think they were sophomores in high school. Me boy Isaac is on the left flingin' his long hair (which you know is shorter now if you've been reading). That's Graham (founder and president of the Wabash Liberation Army) on bass, and Aaron is in back on the drums. This was during their "metal" days, when they played almost all originals. And, honestly, they were quite good. That was like all they did! Now they play a much broader style of music, and are better all around - they just don't practice as much. :)
They had recently been using the name "The Jefferson Hunt", but went with "Sundays Off" for the Ossian Days job because that's what most people know them by. I actually thought they were maybe done playing together (unfortunately), but they were offered a nice hunk of change to play, so... I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO IT!!!
If you're anywhere near Ossian Saturday, September 16, drop on by. I will be the balding, bespectacled, old fart with the big grin on my face. Perhaps I'll wear my "I Think Therefore I Blog" t-shirt.
Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).
Out of touch with church planting
I used to feel like I knew a bit about church planting. That's what I read about, thought about, was interested in. But today I read Jordan Cooper's post about the Resonate Greenhouse Church Planters Reading List. Man, I have only read a handful of those books. And I haven't even heard of most of them. I feel really out of touch. Not that it matters much, because I'm not in a church plant. But it was kinda the only thing I ever felt I really knew anything about. Of course, one thing I always thought... being in the rural Midwest United States - none of the books I read usually applied to us anyway. In fact, sometimes it seemed like I had more success when I did the opposite of what the books said. Maybe that's just the cynic speaking. Or maybe I'm backwards. I dunno.
When Christianity Was Still Safe
Chapter 1 of Shane Claiborne's "The Irresistible Revolution" introduces how he became bored with church life as a teenager. He says (38) "I came to realize that preachers were telling me to lay my life at the foot of the cross and weren't giving me anything to pick up... People had taught me what Christians believe, but no one had told me how Christians live."
He also introduced some interesting terms:
(p.39) SPIRITUAL BULIMIA - "where folks consume large amounts of food but vomit it up before it has a chance to digest." They are "suffocated by Christianity but thirsty for God."
He says (42), "So youth group got a little old - the songs got boring, the games grew stale, and I found other places to meet fine women."
On 45 he defined SPIRITUAL MASTURBATION - feel-good, emotionally charged Christianity where "it feels good but never really gives birth to anything."
He also talked about "chicken poop for the soul" (Christian clutter).
Finally he talked about going to Eastern University, but finding Jesus in the poor people on the streets of Philadelphia.
I want to keep reading, because it started well, but was a short chapter. But... I don't want to become bulemic, you know. I will digest this first chapter. I feel a lot of the same things he felt - even though I didn't grow up in the same circumstance. This book both excites me, but I admit to being a little scared about what might become of it. Lead me, Spirit. Give me courage.
Peace. Revolution anyone?
He also introduced some interesting terms:
(p.39) SPIRITUAL BULIMIA - "where folks consume large amounts of food but vomit it up before it has a chance to digest." They are "suffocated by Christianity but thirsty for God."
He says (42), "So youth group got a little old - the songs got boring, the games grew stale, and I found other places to meet fine women."
On 45 he defined SPIRITUAL MASTURBATION - feel-good, emotionally charged Christianity where "it feels good but never really gives birth to anything."
He also talked about "chicken poop for the soul" (Christian clutter).
Finally he talked about going to Eastern University, but finding Jesus in the poor people on the streets of Philadelphia.
I want to keep reading, because it started well, but was a short chapter. But... I don't want to become bulemic, you know. I will digest this first chapter. I feel a lot of the same things he felt - even though I didn't grow up in the same circumstance. This book both excites me, but I admit to being a little scared about what might become of it. Lead me, Spirit. Give me courage.
Peace. Revolution anyone?
Monday, September 11, 2006
The Irresistible Revolution
I finally started reading Shane Claiborne's book THE IRRESISTIBLE REVOLUTION: LIVING AS AN ORDINARY RADICAL today. I have wanted to read it for a long time, and finally decided I needed to since he is coming to Anderson University to speak in October, and I'm hoping I can get a chance to go hear him.In the forward (p.12) Jim Wallis says, "Shane's disaffection from America's cultural and patriotic Christianity came not from going 'secular' or 'liberal' but by plunging deeper into what the earliest Christians called 'the Way' - the way of Jesus, the way of the kingdom, and the way of the cross."
He says on p. 14, "The Christianity of private piety, affluent conformity, and only 'God bless America' has compromised the witness of the church while putting a new generation of Christians to sleep. Defining faith by the things you won't do or question does not create a compelling style of life. And a new generation of young people is hungry for an agenda worthy of its commitment, its energy, and its gifts."
Wallis ends the forward with: "This book is a manifesto for a new generation of Christians who want to live their faith in this world, and not just the next."
So far I've just read the Forward and the Introduction. But it looks like something I will like. I'm already thinking I need to go ahead and change my blog title back to "Peace Revolution." I'll wait a bit, but I think it's inevitible. I mean, who cares about my mind... but a revolution designed to bring about peace... that's something I would lay my life down for.
Peace, folks. Revolution(ate).
Pavilion Dedication Sunday
Here is a picture of the church I pastor (at least the people here on this day). We had a dedication service for our pavilion - letting God know it was his and we want to use it in accordance with his will. I preached on Genesis 22, where Abraham offers Isaac ("A Funny Thing Happened On The Way To The..."). Even had the Regional Director from the Midwest Region CGGC present. Bob gave a nice talk to us outside right after this pic was taken. He said it was interesting that on a day when many people will be remembering DESTRUCTION (9/11 5th anniversary), we were celebrating CONSTRUCTION. And isn't that just like God - He rebuilds what we try to tear down. After the pic, and Bob's talk, I read the official dedication document, then we all joined hands around the pavilion in a circle and prayed. Then we went inside and had lunch because it was darn cold outside! Next week I hope it's warmer, and not so rainy looking, because we're planning to have the whole worship service outside. Isn't that a fine looking bunch of people?
Peace. It's a revolution.
Sunday, September 10, 2006
I like Brian McLaren
My internet is working again, and I have too much to say. So... just let me say this (in case anyone is wondering): I like Brian McLaren. Does that mean I AGREE with everything he says? No. Does that mean I'm gay? I don't think so. But anyway, just so we're sure on this, I like him. I like his heart. I like how he writes and thinks. There you have it.
Oh, and why do I feel the need to say this? I dunno. But I read THIS ARTICLE in the Washington Post... and I just felt like posting it.
I also read a good post about Joel Osteen (I like him, but don't so much like what he preaches or believes). You can check it out on Michael Spencer's blog.
So... there ya go. Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).
Oh, and why do I feel the need to say this? I dunno. But I read THIS ARTICLE in the Washington Post... and I just felt like posting it.
I also read a good post about Joel Osteen (I like him, but don't so much like what he preaches or believes). You can check it out on Michael Spencer's blog.
So... there ya go. Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).
Friday, September 08, 2006
Internet not working
My internet connection is giving me fits lately. It hasn't worked well all week. For awhile it's fine, then it won't work. I thought it was the fog and whatnot messing with my signal... but today has been beautiful, and it WON'T WORK AT ALL!
Anyway, if you don't hear from me, it's because of this stinkin' internet. I hope it gets straightened out soon, or I'll lose all my friends. :(
Peace. Revolution.
Anyway, if you don't hear from me, it's because of this stinkin' internet. I hope it gets straightened out soon, or I'll lose all my friends. :(
Peace. Revolution.
Stress Test
My mom sent me this test. It says:
I'm not sure exactly how this works, but it is amazingly accurate. The above picture has 2 identical dolphins in it. It was used in a case study on stress levels at St. Mary's Hospital.
Look at both dolphins jumping out of the water. The dolphins are identical. A closely monitored, scientific study revealed that, in spite of the fact that the dolphins are identical, a person under stress would find differences in the two dolphins. The more differences a person finds between the dolphins, the more stress that person is experiencing.
Look at the photograph and if you find more than one or two differences you may want to take a vacation.
Hmm. Guess I'm okay.
Thursday, September 07, 2006
So Ya Wanna Be A Church Planting Star
I can't think of anything to write (worthwhile), but I thought this was a good piece from Pernell Goodyear. Now, I am NOT a church planter myself, but from what I know of it, this sounds about right.
Peace, friends. Happy revolution.
A Word To The Wise About Church Planting
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
To all you young 'uns (and other assorted riff raff) who have ever thought about - or are thinking about - planting a church: Before you embark on your "rock-star-like" career, I think your perception of church planting may be a little clouded by the bull crap you see in the church, and on blogs, and at conferences.
Allow me to wipe that crap away: being a church planter will not make you cooler nor will it make you any more popular or more attractive to the opposite sex.
It will not make you any more spiritual and almost no one will respect you more for your courage, risk taking, or intrinsic motivation.
It will not make you braver or more disciplined.
It will not teach you to 'take it like a man' or 'be a real woman', it likely won't help you to get on TV and it won't allow you to buy nicer clothes, shoes, or hair gel either.
It won't allow you to finally be part of the perfect church, or to shed institutional politics, nor will it guarantee that people will accept you for who you are - authentic community.
It will, however, expose every limitation you have and defeat you at almost every turn.
It will bite you on the butt whenever it gets the opportunity, it will choke you, break you, wind you, bruise you, cut you and batter you, emptying any sense of self-sufficiency along the way. It'll wind you up like a clock until you feel like tearing your own face off and walking away in snivelling submission.
It's probably the most fun you'll ever have.
Or maybe it's just me.
Peace, friends. Happy revolution.
Wednesday, September 06, 2006
FAMILY VACATION WITH BOB DYLAN
We used our vacation money this year to buy Bob Dylan concert tickets. Only 15 miles from home, but it was a pretty good time. Carrie took this great pic on her phone. She and Isaac were front and center. Jane and I were back a bit in the middle of the ground pack.
RAIN
Elana James opened the show around 6:15 – right when it started to rain. It rained clear through their great set, as well as Junior Brown’s, and Jimmy Vaughn’s. But it was dry for Bob. For awhile you could see blue sky everywhere except right over the stadium. But, not to fear, we had parka’s. I brought three, and only had to buy 1 Dylan parka for $5.
Elana James and her band were excellent - especially if you like fiddle music. And she is some kind of perky! I thought Junior Brown was incredible – singing and playing that combo tele/steel guitar. I liked the minimalist approach – him, a four-string bass, and the drummer just played a snare and a crash cymbal. I could have done without Jimmy Vaughn and his band. They looked like they would rather be somewhere else. That’s where the first two were good – they looked like they were GLAD to be there, and like they liked the audience. Unless you’re somebody like Dylan, you can’t get by with ignoring the audience in my book.
THE MAN HIMSELF
Dylan himself exceeded my expectations. He did all classics. The only disappointment was that he didn’t end with “Forever Young”, but that’s okay. He played his tiny keyboard the whole time; blew some harp; and sang incredibly good for a 65-year-old. I don't think he said anything until "thank you" at the end. And what was maybe weirdest... he was smiling off and on, and even laughing towards the end of the show. He actually looked like he was thoroughly enjoying himself! That just made it all the better. To get to see someone I've admired for so long, and for it to go well... wow.
Carrie and Isaac said a kid standing by them told them this was his 63rd Dylan show, and that this one ranked up there with the best. I’m glad I got to be there – especially with the fam.
SIDE NOTES
I only smelled weed a couple of times - but we resisted munchies until the ride home (Wendy's). There was one guy that was SOOO totally wasted. He was near Jane and me, and he kept teetering back and forth, just leaning on people. A couple of times he started to go down, but it was so crowded that he couldn't have fallen. Finally his wife/friend got him out of there. I can't imagine paying $50 for a ticket and then NOT EVEN GETTING TO SEE THE SHOW!
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Bob Dylan tonight
Tonight the whole family is going to see Dylan. I was looking forward to it before, but wasn't really expecting a great show. That was before Isaac bought his newest cd MODERN TIMES (see Rolling Stone review HERE. He said it is really good, and hopes he does all his new songs tonight. So... I am really psyched now.
"Maybe you'll go your way and..."
Peace, friends. Revolution.
"Maybe you'll go your way and..."
Peace, friends. Revolution.
Monday, September 04, 2006
Corn Toss holiday
I actually took the whole darn day off of work (it's labor day here in the US)! Jane and I built this nifty Corn Toss game. I made the goals and Jane made the bags-o-corn.
I was not familiar with this game until recently. Apparently it is all the rage with teens and young adults (at least in the midwest). Most people call it "cornhole" (get it, you toss the corn-filled bag "in" the hole). Personally, I prefer "corn toss" to "conrhole," but that's just me. There is actually an AMERICAN CORNHOLE ASSOCIATION, which has loads of interesting information on its website. It's kinda like horseshoes - only a lot safer for people like me. :)
Hopefully Jane and I can practice up before the weekend. I'm planning to drag it out Sunday after church. We're having a dedication service for our pavilion, then a cookout afterwards... and we ALWAYS need some games to play.
So... that's how I spent my Labor Day. How 'bout you???
Peace. Revolution(ate).
Sunday, September 03, 2006
Back to the beginning
Okay, okay... so I'm back to the same ole' name for this blog. I appreciate all of you who pitched in your thoughts - some really good suggestions. I think I especially like "Book em, Danno: Chapters from a small church pastor" and "My Broken Whine-Skins", but there were several REALLY GOOD ideas.
I finally went back and forth between DDM and Peace Revolution. I like Peace Revolution (and may still go with it, I don't know) but it sometimes carried a weight I wasn't sure I could hold (too much pressure). As for Danno's Dangerous Mind... it's not really accurate or true. My mind isn't all that dangerous or anything. But it's what I started with and it is probably a better description of the blog in general - it's just stuff that's on my mind.
So there you have it folks. Quite exciting, I know.
Peace. Revolution.
I finally went back and forth between DDM and Peace Revolution. I like Peace Revolution (and may still go with it, I don't know) but it sometimes carried a weight I wasn't sure I could hold (too much pressure). As for Danno's Dangerous Mind... it's not really accurate or true. My mind isn't all that dangerous or anything. But it's what I started with and it is probably a better description of the blog in general - it's just stuff that's on my mind.
So there you have it folks. Quite exciting, I know.
Peace. Revolution.
Saturday, September 02, 2006
That's pretty much it
When I decided to attend seminary I didn't really have any idea what I wanted to do after that. It wasn't long though before I felt a passion for church planting. If you had asked me to describe what it would "look" like, C2G in Fort Wayne pretty well sums it up. This is a pic from there tonight (before the lights were dimmed).
Speaking strictly from a building and aeschetics and "feel" standpoint... yep, this is it. It's hard to describe, and the photo doesn't do it justice really. But it's a big warehouse with a black ceiling, black curtains draping everything, nice lighting, good music, and a smoke machine. They have bands on Monday night and Saturday night; and worship on Sunday morning and Sunday night. Of course I know this isn't what Christianity is all about... but this was the picture I had in my head.
Anyway... we heard a GREAT band tonight - Full Circle. I can't find any info on them, but they are local, and I would guess all the guys in the band are music teachers somewhere, because they are talented and professional. And the female singer... let me just say: awesome. Her voice is similar to Ashley Cleveland, but... I think she is better. Jennifer Springer or something like that. Remember that name. She is fantastic. Such incredible control of her voice, and the way she moves... everything.
A GOD-MOMENT
They played a lot of oldies, everything from Santana to Guns-n-Roses, as well as some worship songs. And when they did "Breathe"... it was like everything stopped moving and time stood still. Megan, our friends little girl went up and leaned on the stage; two ladies beside us were in like a yoga position; there was this light shining from behind the singer... I don't know, I can't describe it. But it was a beautiful moment. One of those that doesn't come along very often. An all around good night with some good friends and good music.
AND A GOOD DAY
A good way to end this fine day. This morning we had a work day at church and we got a bunch of little odd jobs done. Put the grill in by the pavilion, put the attic door on, and an attic light, took out the tree & stump out front, and I don't know what all else. Then... I got to hear Sundays Off practice for a bit (also known as The Jefferson Hunt). And I think I even heard some of their original stuff from back in the day. That was a treat. They were practicing for their upcoming Ossian Days gig.
Well, I am tired. Thanks for this day, Lord. You are so good. I love you.
Peace. Revolution.
Belief-O-Matic
I got this off the This Is True site. It says, "Even if YOU don't know what faith you are, Belief-O-Matic knows. Answer 20 questions about your concept of God, the afterlife, human nature, and more, and Belief-O-Matic will tell you what religion (if any) you practice...or ought to consider practicing." Go here to take the quiz.
My score was:
100% Orthodox Quaker
81% Mainline to liberal Christian protestant
76% Mainline to conservative Christian/protestant
75% Seventh Day ADventist
69% Eastern Orthodox
69% Roman Catholic
68% Liberal Quaker
59% Islam
55% Orthodox Judaism
52% Unitarian Universalism
52% Reform Judaism
and less than 50% on 15 others.
My score was:
100% Orthodox Quaker
81% Mainline to liberal Christian protestant
76% Mainline to conservative Christian/protestant
75% Seventh Day ADventist
69% Eastern Orthodox
69% Roman Catholic
68% Liberal Quaker
59% Islam
55% Orthodox Judaism
52% Unitarian Universalism
52% Reform Judaism
and less than 50% on 15 others.
Friday, September 01, 2006
Connections
I spent parts of the last few days trying to reconcile Isaac's remaining cd's with their respective cd cases, and the inserts that go with. Normally when he gets a cd, he takes the cd out, takes out the insert to read it, and then it all kind of just "lands" wherever. There's not a lot of regard for that future someday when you might want to organize things... put things "back together."
That's probably how much of life is too, isn't it? I mean, how often do we think about the future consequences of our actions? Every now and then I will meet someone and I will realize, "Hmm, I think I stood in front of this person at the check-out line once. I wonder if I was gracious to them?" Or I remember the time I had a couple come to church once, and he worked at the video store I frequented - was I nice to him?
And it's not just our relationships that may come back to haunt us. How about our "stuff"? I need to mow the lawn in a few minutes... while I'm mowing, do I just worry about getting it DONE, or do I take extra care so as to insure the longevity of the mower? Am I a good steward with my car - keeping it maintained properly to help it hold value; do I maintain the house; the computer; the dog for-cryin'-out-loud?!
And let's not stop there, but how about our environment - the world!? Are we concerned about the condition we leave it in, the effect the things we do will have on the future?
Just some things to think about. It can seem like a waste of time - at the time - to take a few extra minutes to be nice, to be thoughtful, to be proactive, to be care-ful... but in the long run, it may save us a great deal in the end.
Of couse, as I think about all those cd cases now neatly put away... I think about Jesus "making all things new." Isn't that a great thought? He can take the pieces of our lives, and put them all back together. How grateful are we for that...
Peace, friends. It sounds like a revolution is brewing.
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