Yippee!!! They brought the materials for our picnic shelter/pavilion this afternoon! It is actually HAPPENING. I am a little amazed. I really hope all goes well and that it will be received well by the community. This is our gift to them.
But... as they were unloading the materials, I began reading the Christianity Today blog "out of ur". Wow... is that so completely sad. I have to say, I am ashamed to be a Christian at times like this. Not that I think we all need to agree, or that there won't be times when we all use poor judgment. But there is so much hatred and animosity being spewed. And, I have to say, I have lost any respect I had for Mark Driscoll. I don't know him, but know of him, and his posts have really disappointed me. Actually, some people are just downright being jerks.
The whole thing is making me wonder if I even want to participate in any public blogs anymore. I often get frustrated with the emergingcggc blog because it seems no one else wants to participate. It's kinda like each week when I stand before a crowd and pour out my guts... and people just sit there and look at me and never say anything. Why do I do this to myself? I dunno. I hate hatred. And I hate it when I get that way myself.
Well, one of those really mixed days. Thank you, God, for helping put a sermon together today. Thanks for loving even me. You are so good.
For anyone else... peace and revolution friends. And maybe I should say "peaceful revolution." No stones here. May they all be rolling...
Random "everyday" thoughts and events dealing with life, faith, and... other stuff.
Tuesday, January 31, 2006
Quiet desperation
In ch. 11 of NO PERFECT PEOPLE ALLOWED, Burke quotes Thoreau,
"[Most people] lead lives of quiet desperation... an unconscious despair is concealed even under what are called the games and amusements of mankind."
I saw a perfect example of this last night. Made a late-night stop for chicken qasadeias (sp?) and there were seveal people at the bar of this particular restaurant. They were the friendliest people I had run across in some time. But in a matter of minutes you could tell they were all terribly lonely. And... maybe it wasn't even that they were so friendly as they were just really 'desperate.' One woman in particular was just giving out wayyyy too much information about her personal life. One of the guys couldn't stop talking. Pretty soon even the bartender was sharing personal stuff about her life. It was almost like a movie. And it was kinda funny as I was sitting there. But... in reality, it was really sad. The late-night games and amusements of these kind folks were revealing the quiet desperation of their hearts.
AFter encounters like that I am always torn. On the one hand, I should have spoken up more and interjected some hope into these peoples lives. But on the other hand, I am somewhat in the same boat. Serious doubts about my ability to pastor a church; my intellect and understanding of Scripture and people; fear of losing my hearing and eyesight; fear of failure, or success, of the unknown; worrying about friends and family and people in my church; etc., etc.
Burke says on p.212: "...sometimes the greatest act of faith is simply hanging on until it gets better... God knows what we're enduring and it matters to him."
Yeah. All desperation, fear, insecurity... it's probably all a lack of faith. A lack of trusting God. Forgive me, Lord. I believe; Help me in my unbelief. The weight of the world does not have to rest on my shoulders. You have offered to take it. So here. Thank You. I love You.
revolution, friends. and peace.
"[Most people] lead lives of quiet desperation... an unconscious despair is concealed even under what are called the games and amusements of mankind."
I saw a perfect example of this last night. Made a late-night stop for chicken qasadeias (sp?) and there were seveal people at the bar of this particular restaurant. They were the friendliest people I had run across in some time. But in a matter of minutes you could tell they were all terribly lonely. And... maybe it wasn't even that they were so friendly as they were just really 'desperate.' One woman in particular was just giving out wayyyy too much information about her personal life. One of the guys couldn't stop talking. Pretty soon even the bartender was sharing personal stuff about her life. It was almost like a movie. And it was kinda funny as I was sitting there. But... in reality, it was really sad. The late-night games and amusements of these kind folks were revealing the quiet desperation of their hearts.
AFter encounters like that I am always torn. On the one hand, I should have spoken up more and interjected some hope into these peoples lives. But on the other hand, I am somewhat in the same boat. Serious doubts about my ability to pastor a church; my intellect and understanding of Scripture and people; fear of losing my hearing and eyesight; fear of failure, or success, of the unknown; worrying about friends and family and people in my church; etc., etc.
Burke says on p.212: "...sometimes the greatest act of faith is simply hanging on until it gets better... God knows what we're enduring and it matters to him."
Yeah. All desperation, fear, insecurity... it's probably all a lack of faith. A lack of trusting God. Forgive me, Lord. I believe; Help me in my unbelief. The weight of the world does not have to rest on my shoulders. You have offered to take it. So here. Thank You. I love You.
revolution, friends. and peace.
Thursday, January 26, 2006
Gays in church
It's been awhile since I last wrote. Lots happening. We had company Friday through Monday - our good friends from S. Asia (the Kopp's). It was good to visit with them, catch up, and just hang out. Jane had to have some medical tests done, but everything turned out okay. LA started work on our pavilion site - got it graded. Now we're waiting for it to be cold enough to spread rock. Then they can start building. This has been testing my patience. Plus there have been several other things going on. Too many to even want to think about right now. So...
Gay's in church. I have to admit, I don't know too much about what it means to be gay. I mean, does "gay" mean you have sex with someone the same gender; or does it just mean you're attracted to someone of the same gender; or what? I have known several "gay" people - I even danced with one at my wedding briefly. My daughter worked with several at GAP, and they were all pretty nice as far as I could tell. She tried to get several of them to come to church... but no one ever would. I wish they had.
Anyway, how I happened onto this subject... John Burke has a chapter about this in his book NO PERFECT PEOPLE ALLOWED. I think it's a pretty good chapter. He starts off by saying, "The real question is not whether to let gays into the church, they're already among us. The real question is whether to let them talk about it, so they can find hope and support to grow spiritually, and allow God to do his will fully in them." I agree. From my limited knowledge of the subject, I think some who are gay don't really want to be. And even some who want to be, they really want to be "free" (whatever that means). The sad part is, I think so many people are just 'afraid' of gay people that they don't know what to do. When maybe - maybe we don't need to "do" anything... but just let them talk, and let them seek to find their way like everybody else is trying to do.
Burke also says: "I imagine when gay people hear that God's will is against homosexual sex, you probably feel like God just wants to rip away from you one of the most important things in your life and leave you empty. But I'm convinced that's not true. Whatever God wants to do in your lives will not leave you unfulfilled and empty. It may be difficult, or at times painful, but it will leave you more fulfilled than before in the long run. Yeah, I think that's a fear not only gays have, but EVERYBODY has about getting into a relationship with Jesus. Why is it we so often think God wants somethign bad for us?
Burke ends by saying, "We can never change or fix another person, that's not our job, but we can invite gay people into a place where they might come to trust a God who loves them, then allow Christ to fully do his will in their lives in his timing (not oour wills or our timing)."
I read where some evangelicals are calling for the church to quit talking about the "homosexual issue", because it's too polarizing and it's taking our minds off of things we need to be talking about. I sort of agree, but also, I guess I haven't really been talking about it at all, and I don't think we can say ENOUGH that God loves everybody and as for me, personally, I wish I could make it so everyone - gays included - felt welcome in my church. I guess I just don't really know how to go about doing that though.
Well, lots of work to do today. Rock on, my friends. Peace & revolution. Somebody's gotta do it!
Gay's in church. I have to admit, I don't know too much about what it means to be gay. I mean, does "gay" mean you have sex with someone the same gender; or does it just mean you're attracted to someone of the same gender; or what? I have known several "gay" people - I even danced with one at my wedding briefly. My daughter worked with several at GAP, and they were all pretty nice as far as I could tell. She tried to get several of them to come to church... but no one ever would. I wish they had.
Anyway, how I happened onto this subject... John Burke has a chapter about this in his book NO PERFECT PEOPLE ALLOWED. I think it's a pretty good chapter. He starts off by saying, "The real question is not whether to let gays into the church, they're already among us. The real question is whether to let them talk about it, so they can find hope and support to grow spiritually, and allow God to do his will fully in them." I agree. From my limited knowledge of the subject, I think some who are gay don't really want to be. And even some who want to be, they really want to be "free" (whatever that means). The sad part is, I think so many people are just 'afraid' of gay people that they don't know what to do. When maybe - maybe we don't need to "do" anything... but just let them talk, and let them seek to find their way like everybody else is trying to do.
Burke also says: "I imagine when gay people hear that God's will is against homosexual sex, you probably feel like God just wants to rip away from you one of the most important things in your life and leave you empty. But I'm convinced that's not true. Whatever God wants to do in your lives will not leave you unfulfilled and empty. It may be difficult, or at times painful, but it will leave you more fulfilled than before in the long run. Yeah, I think that's a fear not only gays have, but EVERYBODY has about getting into a relationship with Jesus. Why is it we so often think God wants somethign bad for us?
Burke ends by saying, "We can never change or fix another person, that's not our job, but we can invite gay people into a place where they might come to trust a God who loves them, then allow Christ to fully do his will in their lives in his timing (not oour wills or our timing)."
I read where some evangelicals are calling for the church to quit talking about the "homosexual issue", because it's too polarizing and it's taking our minds off of things we need to be talking about. I sort of agree, but also, I guess I haven't really been talking about it at all, and I don't think we can say ENOUGH that God loves everybody and as for me, personally, I wish I could make it so everyone - gays included - felt welcome in my church. I guess I just don't really know how to go about doing that though.
Well, lots of work to do today. Rock on, my friends. Peace & revolution. Somebody's gotta do it!
Thursday, January 19, 2006
Come As You Are quotes
Several things from John Burke's book caught my eye in ch. 5:
P.90, from Gordon MacDonald,
"The world can do almost anything as well as or better than the church. You need not be a Christian to build houses, feed the hungry, or heal the sick. There is only one thing the world cannot do. It cannot offer grace."
p.90
"THe Buddhist eight-fold path, the Hindu doctrine of karma, the Jewish covenant, and Muslim code of law - each of these offers a way to earn approval. Grace says God accepts you and love you unconditionally -- 'as is'" (from Philip Yancey)
p. 91 "Our culture diets on the candy of tolerance, but what it craves is the meat of grace."
p.92
"The soil of acceptance allows God's grace to take root in hard hearts. Without this, no one changes."
p.95
"When Christians wrongly assume their job is to help make others acceptable - even though we could never make ourselves acceptable - this tells people that God will not accept them 'as is.'"
GOOD CHAPTER. This book is getting better as I go. I would recommend it.
Just found out my sister lost her job last night. She wants to be a lawyer, and would make a darn good one, but she's afraid to risk it. She has a couple of kids and is afraid they can't afford for her to go back to school. I wish she would go for it.
Started a new B.S. Group last night. Had 2 people besides my wife and I. It was good though. Tonight we have the usual group.
Think I'll knock off early and run on the treadmill. I've been in the office too much this week.
Peace and revolution, friends.
P.90, from Gordon MacDonald,
"The world can do almost anything as well as or better than the church. You need not be a Christian to build houses, feed the hungry, or heal the sick. There is only one thing the world cannot do. It cannot offer grace."
p.90
"THe Buddhist eight-fold path, the Hindu doctrine of karma, the Jewish covenant, and Muslim code of law - each of these offers a way to earn approval. Grace says God accepts you and love you unconditionally -- 'as is'" (from Philip Yancey)
p. 91 "Our culture diets on the candy of tolerance, but what it craves is the meat of grace."
p.92
"The soil of acceptance allows God's grace to take root in hard hearts. Without this, no one changes."
p.95
"When Christians wrongly assume their job is to help make others acceptable - even though we could never make ourselves acceptable - this tells people that God will not accept them 'as is.'"
GOOD CHAPTER. This book is getting better as I go. I would recommend it.
Just found out my sister lost her job last night. She wants to be a lawyer, and would make a darn good one, but she's afraid to risk it. She has a couple of kids and is afraid they can't afford for her to go back to school. I wish she would go for it.
Started a new B.S. Group last night. Had 2 people besides my wife and I. It was good though. Tonight we have the usual group.
Think I'll knock off early and run on the treadmill. I've been in the office too much this week.
Peace and revolution, friends.
Labels:
books
Defining the emerging church
It seems that as soon as I start to think I understand what the 'emerging church' is... I come to realize I don't have a clue. So the past couple days I've been trying to read a lot about it and think about it. What is the emerging church?
I say this as not an expert at all, so please don't read it like I am (kinda naive of me to think someone is reading this, I guess). Anyway, these are just my thoughts.
The two words that come to mind are: reaction and identity. And I am not saying this is what it means to ALL people, but this seems to be what it means to a lot of people.
REACTION:
Every generation, and even pockets within each of those generations, need to rebel against the previous. maybe 'rebel' isn't the best word, but we 'react' to the previous generation, or to those around us that we 'don't want to be like.' It has been happening since the beginning of time - Adam and Eve, even. And I think a lot of people with a church background call themselves emergent because they don't want to be like the church health movement, or church growth movement, or seeker sensitive movement, and on and on. So for these people, the emergent church is another "movement" in a succession of movements throughout church history. In this sense it's not so much a 'reaction to post-modernism' as it is a 'reaction to modernism'.
As a 'reaction', the emerging church can take on many shapes and forms. It is not going to be the same thing to everyone. It defies age, culture, theology, and philosophy.
IDENTITY:
I believe that for many people the emerging church has become more of an 'identity.' Even if it is also a reaction. In this sense it would be more of a 'reaction to post-modernism. It's a label. And as much as so many post-modern's say they don't like labels, or as many emergents say they can't be labeled... I believe that is the label they want to identify with.
Again, it means different things to different people. For some, emergent is a young person's movement. For some it's a 'way of thinking/living/doing church/doing life.' For some it is what seperates them from those Christ-followers they don't necessarily want to associate with. It's like a tattoo, or a brand.
And it's kinda funny... my son made an observation yesterday about it... Some people don't like that the emerging church is gaining in popularity. Probably the same people who don't want it to be defined. Because then it's kinda like an 'Indie band' that someone happened onto, and they are such a cool band mostly because no one else seems to know about them. But then when they start to gain popularity... they're no longer "cool." For these people, the emerging church is just the latest trend. It's a form of 'identity.'
Anyway, I say all that, because this morning I happened on a definition of the emerging church that I really like. And it's from 1970! I saw this on Andrew Jones' blog; it's from Larson, Osborne: "Wherever there are a few individuals willing and ready to be Christ's people in their own situation and place, there the emerging Church is coming into its own."
Hmm. I like that. Simple, yet profound. Defined with no borders. I think that will be my definition for now. I want to emerge. I want to be Christ's person in the situation I am in; the place I am in. And I hope others will join me. I think they have.
Good day. Peace... and revolution!
I say this as not an expert at all, so please don't read it like I am (kinda naive of me to think someone is reading this, I guess). Anyway, these are just my thoughts.
The two words that come to mind are: reaction and identity. And I am not saying this is what it means to ALL people, but this seems to be what it means to a lot of people.
REACTION:
Every generation, and even pockets within each of those generations, need to rebel against the previous. maybe 'rebel' isn't the best word, but we 'react' to the previous generation, or to those around us that we 'don't want to be like.' It has been happening since the beginning of time - Adam and Eve, even. And I think a lot of people with a church background call themselves emergent because they don't want to be like the church health movement, or church growth movement, or seeker sensitive movement, and on and on. So for these people, the emergent church is another "movement" in a succession of movements throughout church history. In this sense it's not so much a 'reaction to post-modernism' as it is a 'reaction to modernism'.
As a 'reaction', the emerging church can take on many shapes and forms. It is not going to be the same thing to everyone. It defies age, culture, theology, and philosophy.
IDENTITY:
I believe that for many people the emerging church has become more of an 'identity.' Even if it is also a reaction. In this sense it would be more of a 'reaction to post-modernism. It's a label. And as much as so many post-modern's say they don't like labels, or as many emergents say they can't be labeled... I believe that is the label they want to identify with.
Again, it means different things to different people. For some, emergent is a young person's movement. For some it's a 'way of thinking/living/doing church/doing life.' For some it is what seperates them from those Christ-followers they don't necessarily want to associate with. It's like a tattoo, or a brand.
And it's kinda funny... my son made an observation yesterday about it... Some people don't like that the emerging church is gaining in popularity. Probably the same people who don't want it to be defined. Because then it's kinda like an 'Indie band' that someone happened onto, and they are such a cool band mostly because no one else seems to know about them. But then when they start to gain popularity... they're no longer "cool." For these people, the emerging church is just the latest trend. It's a form of 'identity.'
Anyway, I say all that, because this morning I happened on a definition of the emerging church that I really like. And it's from 1970! I saw this on Andrew Jones' blog; it's from Larson, Osborne: "Wherever there are a few individuals willing and ready to be Christ's people in their own situation and place, there the emerging Church is coming into its own."
Hmm. I like that. Simple, yet profound. Defined with no borders. I think that will be my definition for now. I want to emerge. I want to be Christ's person in the situation I am in; the place I am in. And I hope others will join me. I think they have.
Good day. Peace... and revolution!
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Losing My Need To Pretend
This chapter in 'No Perfect People Allowed' is really good too. Burke says on p.73:
I'm convinced the most important work of spiritual leadership is leading a spiritually authentic life. But to do this, I must break through the deception that I am somehow better than others. That I am somehow a little less in need of God's mercy and grace..."
Yeah. It's hard to admit that I often feel I am better than others. Especially when I pride myself on thinking I am not. But I think I'm just trying to convince myself that I'm not like that - you know - it's a subconscious thing. I hate it when others are critical, and so then I'm critical of them. I'm judgmental of judgmental people. I'm cynical about cynics. I'm mean to mean people. Etc, etc. That's probably why our pastor's group has fallen apart. I really wish I could find a group of church leaders to be able t meet with to share and help one another grow... but I've got to change. Help, Lord.
Last night we had a church council meeting. I am no longer the chairman of the board. I felt like that was a step for me. Our council members are all relatively inexperienced, so I have been chairman for the last two years - especially since we changed the structure and format. I think it will be good for me to step aside and let others learn - even from their mistakes. Not only do I struggle with control issues, but also from feeling the need to protect everyone. Doesn't that probably come from thinking I am 'better than' others? Yeah, this will be good.
They didn't start on our pavilion yesterday. And today it's raining. I am bummed. I was really hoping to see some action. I pray that it might get cold - even if it snows. It needs to be cold for them to get to the site with their equipment. Cold, please.
This week I need to remember to read my letter to the church. Last Sunday I had everyone write a letter to themselves as though they were God... (what do you think God would want you to know?). A couple of people offered to read their's, and I was so stupid that I didn't even think to read mine. I hate it when I do that. I will read it this week. Part of 'losing my need to pretend.'
peace and revolution. It's Tuesday.
I'm convinced the most important work of spiritual leadership is leading a spiritually authentic life. But to do this, I must break through the deception that I am somehow better than others. That I am somehow a little less in need of God's mercy and grace..."
Yeah. It's hard to admit that I often feel I am better than others. Especially when I pride myself on thinking I am not. But I think I'm just trying to convince myself that I'm not like that - you know - it's a subconscious thing. I hate it when others are critical, and so then I'm critical of them. I'm judgmental of judgmental people. I'm cynical about cynics. I'm mean to mean people. Etc, etc. That's probably why our pastor's group has fallen apart. I really wish I could find a group of church leaders to be able t meet with to share and help one another grow... but I've got to change. Help, Lord.
Last night we had a church council meeting. I am no longer the chairman of the board. I felt like that was a step for me. Our council members are all relatively inexperienced, so I have been chairman for the last two years - especially since we changed the structure and format. I think it will be good for me to step aside and let others learn - even from their mistakes. Not only do I struggle with control issues, but also from feeling the need to protect everyone. Doesn't that probably come from thinking I am 'better than' others? Yeah, this will be good.
They didn't start on our pavilion yesterday. And today it's raining. I am bummed. I was really hoping to see some action. I pray that it might get cold - even if it snows. It needs to be cold for them to get to the site with their equipment. Cold, please.
This week I need to remember to read my letter to the church. Last Sunday I had everyone write a letter to themselves as though they were God... (what do you think God would want you to know?). A couple of people offered to read their's, and I was so stupid that I didn't even think to read mine. I hate it when I do that. I will read it this week. Part of 'losing my need to pretend.'
peace and revolution. It's Tuesday.
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books
Monday, January 16, 2006
No Perfect People Allowed
Ahh, I liked today's chapter much better than the previous. Chapter 3 is: "Doubter's Wanted - Creating A Culture of Dialogue."
p. 57 "Questions, doubts, and struggles are not the antithesis of faith. The opposite of faith is a decision to not trust God. The man who cried out to Jesus, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief' did not demonstrate faith with zero doubts but a willful decision to trust in God even in the midst of questions and doubts. When leaders come to terms with this interchange between doubts and faith, then we find freedom to create a culture of dialogue."
Yeah, I wish I had more honest doubters in my church. And I undoubtedly need to be more open about my doubts. But I also need to be open about my faith "in spite of" my doubts.
God, I wish I could find some unbelievers to open dialogue with; to help me learn how to listen better, to respect the opinions of those who don't agree with me (especially about you). I want to learn how to interact better with people and value ALL people - for who they are, not because they think and act like I do.
I was really hoping to do this with the Fort Wayne Atheist group, but it appears they are no longer meeting. I wished I had been able to attend a meeting, but something always came up; plus there were several people who wanted to go with me - and I wasn't sure I really wanted some of them there. Because I think the group was probably shut down because there were more Christians there than atheists - and I have a feeling they were Christians who wanted to push their own "agenda." Maybe I'm wrong.
Anyway, had a good day yesterday. Good crowd in church; good lunch afterwards. Supposed to start work on our community pavilion today. I'll be surprised if they do, but they're suposed to anyway.
Work to do. Peace.
p. 57 "Questions, doubts, and struggles are not the antithesis of faith. The opposite of faith is a decision to not trust God. The man who cried out to Jesus, 'I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief' did not demonstrate faith with zero doubts but a willful decision to trust in God even in the midst of questions and doubts. When leaders come to terms with this interchange between doubts and faith, then we find freedom to create a culture of dialogue."
Yeah, I wish I had more honest doubters in my church. And I undoubtedly need to be more open about my doubts. But I also need to be open about my faith "in spite of" my doubts.
God, I wish I could find some unbelievers to open dialogue with; to help me learn how to listen better, to respect the opinions of those who don't agree with me (especially about you). I want to learn how to interact better with people and value ALL people - for who they are, not because they think and act like I do.
I was really hoping to do this with the Fort Wayne Atheist group, but it appears they are no longer meeting. I wished I had been able to attend a meeting, but something always came up; plus there were several people who wanted to go with me - and I wasn't sure I really wanted some of them there. Because I think the group was probably shut down because there were more Christians there than atheists - and I have a feeling they were Christians who wanted to push their own "agenda." Maybe I'm wrong.
Anyway, had a good day yesterday. Good crowd in church; good lunch afterwards. Supposed to start work on our community pavilion today. I'll be surprised if they do, but they're suposed to anyway.
Work to do. Peace.
Labels:
books
Saturday, January 14, 2006
Book of Daniel
Not only is there a book named after me, but now there is a t.v. show about me too!!! Yippee! Actually, not. But I did catch the new show 'Book of Daniel.' All I had heard from "inside" the church was how terribly bad it was and how anybody who watched it was going to go straight to hell (without passing Go and collecting $200).
Anyway, I watched it while also doing Sodoku puzzles, and... I thought it was hilarious! Was it irreverent? Absolutely. Was it exaggerated? Of course. Was it true? Not really... but probably a lot truer than most inside the church would want to admit. I honestly wonder if a former pastor didn't help write it. :)
I dunno. I'm not going to recommend anyone watch it (probably), but it was good for some laughs between my wife and I. And I really think they were a lot kinder to the church than many people I know are. I think it could actually do church people a lot of good to watch it and see what the world thinks of us. But... that might not set well with us, so... let's try to get it banned!
Again, I don't know. It's not Sunday School lesson material, but it's not the end of the world either. I think so many people in the church feel we need to DEFEND God, and I think God is fully capable of defending himself. So... I hope I can remember when it's on. I owuld like to see it a few more times to see where they go with it. Maybe if we (the church) would let people poke a little more fun at us... they might actually start to like us, or at least be willing to listen, or share. You know, it's kinda like, there are those people that you know are going to overreact to anything you say or do, and so sometimes the temptation is to say or do something JUST TO SEE WHAT THEY WILL DO. Or maybe that's just me.
Well, it's Saturdya. Isaac started his first job last night - other than giving guitar lessons. He's washing dishes at East of Chicago Pizza. I'm glad it went well.
Gotta go. Peace and revolution peeps.
Anyway, I watched it while also doing Sodoku puzzles, and... I thought it was hilarious! Was it irreverent? Absolutely. Was it exaggerated? Of course. Was it true? Not really... but probably a lot truer than most inside the church would want to admit. I honestly wonder if a former pastor didn't help write it. :)
I dunno. I'm not going to recommend anyone watch it (probably), but it was good for some laughs between my wife and I. And I really think they were a lot kinder to the church than many people I know are. I think it could actually do church people a lot of good to watch it and see what the world thinks of us. But... that might not set well with us, so... let's try to get it banned!
Again, I don't know. It's not Sunday School lesson material, but it's not the end of the world either. I think so many people in the church feel we need to DEFEND God, and I think God is fully capable of defending himself. So... I hope I can remember when it's on. I owuld like to see it a few more times to see where they go with it. Maybe if we (the church) would let people poke a little more fun at us... they might actually start to like us, or at least be willing to listen, or share. You know, it's kinda like, there are those people that you know are going to overreact to anything you say or do, and so sometimes the temptation is to say or do something JUST TO SEE WHAT THEY WILL DO. Or maybe that's just me.
Well, it's Saturdya. Isaac started his first job last night - other than giving guitar lessons. He's washing dishes at East of Chicago Pizza. I'm glad it went well.
Gotta go. Peace and revolution peeps.
Thursday, January 12, 2006
I love Don
Not that way. But I love Donald Miller's writing, his heart, his thinking.
I was extremely bummed this morning. Then, while reading through some of "Blue Like Jazz" in preparation for my sermon Sunday... I decided I am going to just read chapter 7 -- "Grace: the Beggars' Kingdom." Man, I can't say it any better than that! Thanks Don. Then I'm going to have eveyone write a letter - as though from God to themselves. While writing I'll play this cool song from this guy, Damien Jurado. I don't know who he is. My daughter gave me his cd that she got somewhere. It's like just a cd he made himself. But it's pretty cool.
That ought to get us primed for Galatians. I've been going to start preaching through it since 1/1/06. Maybe the 22. :)
Peace and rev.
I was extremely bummed this morning. Then, while reading through some of "Blue Like Jazz" in preparation for my sermon Sunday... I decided I am going to just read chapter 7 -- "Grace: the Beggars' Kingdom." Man, I can't say it any better than that! Thanks Don. Then I'm going to have eveyone write a letter - as though from God to themselves. While writing I'll play this cool song from this guy, Damien Jurado. I don't know who he is. My daughter gave me his cd that she got somewhere. It's like just a cd he made himself. But it's pretty cool.
That ought to get us primed for Galatians. I've been going to start preaching through it since 1/1/06. Maybe the 22. :)
Peace and rev.
cynical and jaded
I just read chapter two in "No Perfect People Allowed." It's entitled "Cynical and Jaded: REsults of the Postmodern Experiment."
Gosh, I thought it would be good -- seeing as how I'm so cynical and jaded myself. But I am really depressed after reading it. Is there any hope?
Burke says on p. 47: "...the challenge for the church of the twenty-first century has very little to do with the type of music or weekly service or drama or art or candles or coffee we serve. These things are important and may attract people initially, but they will never keep people connected and growing in a faith community. The challenge ahead of us has to do with culture creation: creating a come-as-you-are culture that reflects biblical priorities for the church, functioning as Christ re-presented in community. Only then will we help people overcome their struggles with Trust, Tolerance, Truth, Brokenness, and Aloneness."
That's all very well said, and I believe it. I hope the rst of the book sheds some light on how to go about getting there. Functioning as Christ re-presented in community is hard stuff. Indeed.
Help.
Peace and revolution.
Gosh, I thought it would be good -- seeing as how I'm so cynical and jaded myself. But I am really depressed after reading it. Is there any hope?
Burke says on p. 47: "...the challenge for the church of the twenty-first century has very little to do with the type of music or weekly service or drama or art or candles or coffee we serve. These things are important and may attract people initially, but they will never keep people connected and growing in a faith community. The challenge ahead of us has to do with culture creation: creating a come-as-you-are culture that reflects biblical priorities for the church, functioning as Christ re-presented in community. Only then will we help people overcome their struggles with Trust, Tolerance, Truth, Brokenness, and Aloneness."
That's all very well said, and I believe it. I hope the rst of the book sheds some light on how to go about getting there. Functioning as Christ re-presented in community is hard stuff. Indeed.
Help.
Peace and revolution.
Wednesday, January 11, 2006
Winds Day
Here it is another Wednesday - which doesn't look at all like it sounds. How is it that so many of our american/english words don't sound the way they look.
Of course, the same could apply to people. So many of us don't look like what we say we are. I am a Christian, Protestant, Emergent, Evangelical, Conservative, Liberal, Thinker, TAlker, Dreamer, Doer... okay, I'm running out of words. But, I don't always exemplify those things.
I would hate to be famous. The thought of having people WATCH you all the time... I feel sorry for celebrities and professional athletes and such. It is rather unfair that they are so scrutinized. Even the best of them has bad moments for sure. W-e-d-n-e-s-d-a-y.
Today I finished Eugene Peterson's book, "Traveling Light." It was okay. It is basically his commentary ont eh book of Galatians. And apparently the book that started him on the road to writing 'The Message.' I will use this book as I begin preaching through the book of Galatians.
Now I'm hoping to sink my teeth into "No Perfect People Allowed." It's the BOOK OF THE YEAR in our denomination. Why... I didn't know when I got it. I hope it's good. It's kinda thick though. I like to read thin books.
I wish I was thinner. Not just in stature, but... easier to read. I wish you could look at me and right away see what I was like. In a good way. But sometimes I am probably viewed as something or someone not at all how I intend to be. I am winds-day instead of wednesday (or vice-versa).
Someday. Maybe. Wednesday. Will be. Something. Else.
Peace and revolution, my friends. Until then...
Of course, the same could apply to people. So many of us don't look like what we say we are. I am a Christian, Protestant, Emergent, Evangelical, Conservative, Liberal, Thinker, TAlker, Dreamer, Doer... okay, I'm running out of words. But, I don't always exemplify those things.
I would hate to be famous. The thought of having people WATCH you all the time... I feel sorry for celebrities and professional athletes and such. It is rather unfair that they are so scrutinized. Even the best of them has bad moments for sure. W-e-d-n-e-s-d-a-y.
Today I finished Eugene Peterson's book, "Traveling Light." It was okay. It is basically his commentary ont eh book of Galatians. And apparently the book that started him on the road to writing 'The Message.' I will use this book as I begin preaching through the book of Galatians.
Now I'm hoping to sink my teeth into "No Perfect People Allowed." It's the BOOK OF THE YEAR in our denomination. Why... I didn't know when I got it. I hope it's good. It's kinda thick though. I like to read thin books.
I wish I was thinner. Not just in stature, but... easier to read. I wish you could look at me and right away see what I was like. In a good way. But sometimes I am probably viewed as something or someone not at all how I intend to be. I am winds-day instead of wednesday (or vice-versa).
Someday. Maybe. Wednesday. Will be. Something. Else.
Peace and revolution, my friends. Until then...
Monday, January 09, 2006
Then Came Bronson
I finally found it! I saw this movie the other night and it ended a long,long search for me. I always thought there was a t.v. show about this guy 'Bronson' that I watched when I was a kid. I thought it was the GREATEST show ever. Except no one else seemed to remember it, and anytime I tried to explain it, and as soon as I mentioned 'Bronson', it was only connected with Charles Bronson. So I had begun to think maybe I had imagined the whole thing.
Well, my mind was finally put at ease the other night when the movie aired on television. There was a movie in 1969, and then a t.v. series in '69-'70. Michael Parks was the star.
I would have only been 7 years old at the time, but I still think this show may have had as much to do with shaping me as any other. Either that, or, at 7, I was already able to connect with the main character.
Bronson was a drifer - a guy who set off on his motorcycle to "find himself." What he ended up doing was simply helping people wherever he went. He would stumble upon someone in trouble or in need, and without them really ever even knowing who he was, he would help get them back on their feet... and then leave for another destination.
I never traveled the world on a motorcycle (even though I had a motorcycle for awhile). I really don't even have any desire to just drift around the country, or world. But I still have a desire to help people get back on their feet. And that's what I liked about Bronson -- he didn't help people because he was better than them. He was so totally humble, and usually in trouble himself. But he was always thinking of others as more important than himself. Yeah.
I think it's interesting I came across this movie while preparing to preach a series on the book of Galatians. God, I want to be free like Bronson was. Not free to serve my own needs... but free to love others; to help others; to consider others as more important than myself.
peace and revolution, friends.
Well, my mind was finally put at ease the other night when the movie aired on television. There was a movie in 1969, and then a t.v. series in '69-'70. Michael Parks was the star.
I would have only been 7 years old at the time, but I still think this show may have had as much to do with shaping me as any other. Either that, or, at 7, I was already able to connect with the main character.
Bronson was a drifer - a guy who set off on his motorcycle to "find himself." What he ended up doing was simply helping people wherever he went. He would stumble upon someone in trouble or in need, and without them really ever even knowing who he was, he would help get them back on their feet... and then leave for another destination.
I never traveled the world on a motorcycle (even though I had a motorcycle for awhile). I really don't even have any desire to just drift around the country, or world. But I still have a desire to help people get back on their feet. And that's what I liked about Bronson -- he didn't help people because he was better than them. He was so totally humble, and usually in trouble himself. But he was always thinking of others as more important than himself. Yeah.
I think it's interesting I came across this movie while preparing to preach a series on the book of Galatians. God, I want to be free like Bronson was. Not free to serve my own needs... but free to love others; to help others; to consider others as more important than myself.
peace and revolution, friends.
Saturday, January 07, 2006
When passion looks like anger
I was reading the new next-wave ezine this morning. A good article on "The State of Emergent 2006". Addess: http://www.the-next-wave-ezine.info/issue85/index.cfm?id=8&ref=COVERSTORY
One thing that soudned good and bad was... there won't be many emergent books published this year. That's good in that maybe I can finally catch up; and if all goes well even re-read some of the ones Ive wanted to re-read. The bad news is... no new books from certain autheors.
So, why the title? I am depressed today. Once again I have been passionate about something, but for some reason when I get passionate about things, it often sounds like I am angry. And I'm not. I don't think. But then I thought, "Well, maybe I have some unresolved issues that I need to deal with and I really am angry." Certaily I have issues. But I don't think I'm angry.
I emailed someone an apology the other day... because I thought I may have offended them in my passion. They accepted my apology, but said they don't really ever pay attention to anything I say anyway because they've "learned to disregard me." Wow. That kinda hurt. Especially since I thought I was the one making the grand gesture of apologizing - when I really thought they were the one who had offended me.
Then I read a message I posted elsewhere yesterday, and it looks a little like maybe I was angry when writing it. But I WASN'T at all. In fact, I was in a very GOOD mood when I wrote it. Sometimes even my humor looks like anger. What the heck is wrong with me?
So... should I act more, or let things slide more? I don't know.
One thing I think I'm going to do... I'm going to start a Bible-reading program again. I know I've been against "programs" lately, but I NEED to start reading it regularly again. I think at one time I had read the Bible through like 5 or 6 years in a row. Then I stopped a couple years ago. I want to restart. But instead of one of those 'One Year Bibles', I think I'll use this other guide from ABS and read the Contemporary English Version.
I really wanted to be more positive. Trying. Had someone tell me several tidbits of gossip this morning though that are making it tough. I don't know why when people leave a church - why can't they just leave? Why do they have to spread gossip and lies? Should I confront or just let it go? I dunno.
I have so much to do. My mail pile is about 8 inches high now. They're to start on the pavilion next week. Premarital counseling. Paperwork. Junk. Junk. Junk.
Where's the passion? I want to get excited about something. I need to get involved in something. I need a fix. What to do.
Better is one day. One day will be better. One day. Better day. One. Will. Be.
peace
One thing that soudned good and bad was... there won't be many emergent books published this year. That's good in that maybe I can finally catch up; and if all goes well even re-read some of the ones Ive wanted to re-read. The bad news is... no new books from certain autheors.
So, why the title? I am depressed today. Once again I have been passionate about something, but for some reason when I get passionate about things, it often sounds like I am angry. And I'm not. I don't think. But then I thought, "Well, maybe I have some unresolved issues that I need to deal with and I really am angry." Certaily I have issues. But I don't think I'm angry.
I emailed someone an apology the other day... because I thought I may have offended them in my passion. They accepted my apology, but said they don't really ever pay attention to anything I say anyway because they've "learned to disregard me." Wow. That kinda hurt. Especially since I thought I was the one making the grand gesture of apologizing - when I really thought they were the one who had offended me.
Then I read a message I posted elsewhere yesterday, and it looks a little like maybe I was angry when writing it. But I WASN'T at all. In fact, I was in a very GOOD mood when I wrote it. Sometimes even my humor looks like anger. What the heck is wrong with me?
So... should I act more, or let things slide more? I don't know.
One thing I think I'm going to do... I'm going to start a Bible-reading program again. I know I've been against "programs" lately, but I NEED to start reading it regularly again. I think at one time I had read the Bible through like 5 or 6 years in a row. Then I stopped a couple years ago. I want to restart. But instead of one of those 'One Year Bibles', I think I'll use this other guide from ABS and read the Contemporary English Version.
I really wanted to be more positive. Trying. Had someone tell me several tidbits of gossip this morning though that are making it tough. I don't know why when people leave a church - why can't they just leave? Why do they have to spread gossip and lies? Should I confront or just let it go? I dunno.
I have so much to do. My mail pile is about 8 inches high now. They're to start on the pavilion next week. Premarital counseling. Paperwork. Junk. Junk. Junk.
Where's the passion? I want to get excited about something. I need to get involved in something. I need a fix. What to do.
Better is one day. One day will be better. One day. Better day. One. Will. Be.
peace
Thursday, January 05, 2006
Other people exist
I was thinking some more about Donald Miller's talk from the Catalyst 2005 dvd. One of his points was that we need to come to the realization that OTHER PEOPLE EXIST. It does sound rather simple... but is quite a profound truth that most of us probably don't acknowledge.
For instance, he used the analogy that most of us think life is like a movie about us. And if I leave the room... then "I" leave the room with me. Meaning there is no longer anything of interest going on there. Which is not true -- because my life is not that interesting!
But really, how often do I think about things from other people's perspective? Not very. I'm usually thinking about what I have to do, where I need to be, and stuff like that.
He told about his friend who, when someone cut him off in traffic, he would point at them and say, "They're more important than me." Or if someone cut in front of him, he would say, "They're more important than me." Woulnd't that be GREAT if we could all do that... instead of getting mad, or vowing to get even, or flipping people off, or yelling, or getting depressed even. The Bible tells us we're to consider others as more important than us, right? So do we?
Man, I want to read 'Blue Like Jazz' and 'Searching For God Knows What' again; and read the 'Painted Desserts' one for the first time. And I see his new book is out now too.
Actually, I want to be like Jesus. And I think the things Don talks about are really what Jesus is like.
peace revolution. go.
For instance, he used the analogy that most of us think life is like a movie about us. And if I leave the room... then "I" leave the room with me. Meaning there is no longer anything of interest going on there. Which is not true -- because my life is not that interesting!
But really, how often do I think about things from other people's perspective? Not very. I'm usually thinking about what I have to do, where I need to be, and stuff like that.
He told about his friend who, when someone cut him off in traffic, he would point at them and say, "They're more important than me." Or if someone cut in front of him, he would say, "They're more important than me." Woulnd't that be GREAT if we could all do that... instead of getting mad, or vowing to get even, or flipping people off, or yelling, or getting depressed even. The Bible tells us we're to consider others as more important than us, right? So do we?
Man, I want to read 'Blue Like Jazz' and 'Searching For God Knows What' again; and read the 'Painted Desserts' one for the first time. And I see his new book is out now too.
Actually, I want to be like Jesus. And I think the things Don talks about are really what Jesus is like.
peace revolution. go.
Another one of those daze
I thought I was going to come out of this. Yesterday I embarassed myself by accidentally posting my personal blog on a community blog site - and it somehow sends it out to all these other people who I don't even know. Argh. I hate it when that happens.
Then we got a call from the Ford dealership that our car still isn't fixed. It broke down on Christmas Eve - a coil spring broke. Fortunately it is was a recalled part, but we still don't have our car, and it's what... January 5!
Anyway, I thought things were turning around last night. Bob loaned me some of the dvd's from the 2005 Catalyst conference and Jane and I watched Donald Miller's talk. AWESOME. I love reading his stuff, and even moreso listening to him. Isaac got home and wanted to watch it too, so we watched it again. I'd like to invite some pastors to get together and wathch these together sometimes - but you know how that goes.
Anyway, then this morning I posted on this other blog site again, and I think I screwed it up. I know just enough to be dangerous. I wish I could watch my life before I lived it. Or even, like, if I could see myself "while" I was living. YOu know? Maybe I could hire someone just to observe me and tell me when I'm being an idiot. And if I could pay them with monopoly money, it could last a couple of weeks maybe.
Oh well. My left shoulder hurts like crazy today. I fell asleep on the couch last night watching Texas/USC. Didn't see the end of the game and woke up at 5 wondering who was talking (the t.v.). Man, I've taken a bunch of ibuprofen and it just won't go away though. Right behind my shoulder blade. Maybe tonight I'll try to ween off the Nyquil.
peace revolution folks. Start now.
Then we got a call from the Ford dealership that our car still isn't fixed. It broke down on Christmas Eve - a coil spring broke. Fortunately it is was a recalled part, but we still don't have our car, and it's what... January 5!
Anyway, I thought things were turning around last night. Bob loaned me some of the dvd's from the 2005 Catalyst conference and Jane and I watched Donald Miller's talk. AWESOME. I love reading his stuff, and even moreso listening to him. Isaac got home and wanted to watch it too, so we watched it again. I'd like to invite some pastors to get together and wathch these together sometimes - but you know how that goes.
Anyway, then this morning I posted on this other blog site again, and I think I screwed it up. I know just enough to be dangerous. I wish I could watch my life before I lived it. Or even, like, if I could see myself "while" I was living. YOu know? Maybe I could hire someone just to observe me and tell me when I'm being an idiot. And if I could pay them with monopoly money, it could last a couple of weeks maybe.
Oh well. My left shoulder hurts like crazy today. I fell asleep on the couch last night watching Texas/USC. Didn't see the end of the game and woke up at 5 wondering who was talking (the t.v.). Man, I've taken a bunch of ibuprofen and it just won't go away though. Right behind my shoulder blade. Maybe tonight I'll try to ween off the Nyquil.
peace revolution folks. Start now.
Wednesday, January 04, 2006
Warning Lights
I was coming back from meeting my friend Tom for breakfast and noticed that my brake light didn't come on anymore on the instrument panel of my truck. It's an old Ford RAnger, and from time to time different warning lights come on. I usually ignore them because they eventually go off. But last week the "brake" light started coming on. I ignored it as usual, but finally thought maybe I should check the brake fluid. Sure enough, it was low, so I added some. Imagine that... and the light doesn't come on anymore. Funny how that works.
So, how many "warning lights" flash at me each day, and how often do I ignore them? Hmm. Probably way too many.
I got a call from a pastor from a neighboring church today. I hadn't talked to him in a couple of years, and, honestly, he kind of rubbed me the wrong way the last time I talked to him. But he called just to say "hi" and see how I was doing,and to warn me about some people who had been trying to get money from all the areae churches. It was good just to chat. I felt bad about my previous attitude against him. I had ignored that warning light for too long.
We had our ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING last night. It went good - other than the fact of my still fighting this rotten cold. A couple of ladies brought cookies, which I thought was a grand gesture. I can remember some of these meetings not being so nice. I really appreciated the people who came (all 17) and their willingness to share ideas and comments. I like our church. I only wish I had been aware of more warning lights along the way, so I wouldn't have done so many stupid things. Forgiveness is such a nice thing.
My stomach is growling. Guess that's a signal it's time to eat. (blink)
Peace revolution.
So, how many "warning lights" flash at me each day, and how often do I ignore them? Hmm. Probably way too many.
I got a call from a pastor from a neighboring church today. I hadn't talked to him in a couple of years, and, honestly, he kind of rubbed me the wrong way the last time I talked to him. But he called just to say "hi" and see how I was doing,and to warn me about some people who had been trying to get money from all the areae churches. It was good just to chat. I felt bad about my previous attitude against him. I had ignored that warning light for too long.
We had our ANNUAL CONGREGATIONAL MEETING last night. It went good - other than the fact of my still fighting this rotten cold. A couple of ladies brought cookies, which I thought was a grand gesture. I can remember some of these meetings not being so nice. I really appreciated the people who came (all 17) and their willingness to share ideas and comments. I like our church. I only wish I had been aware of more warning lights along the way, so I wouldn't have done so many stupid things. Forgiveness is such a nice thing.
My stomach is growling. Guess that's a signal it's time to eat. (blink)
Peace revolution.
Tuesday, January 03, 2006
I feel rotten
I have a stinking head-cold. I hate it when I feel like this. It's not that I'm going to die or anything, but I just don't feel like doing anything. I briefly though of staying home and laying on the couch today, but there's too much to do.
We have our annual congregational meeting tonight. I think I have everything pretty much ready. I finished the annual report yesterday; just need a devotion and to decided what to talk about.
I think I'm going to bring up the church membership issue. Right now we have a 'membership covenant' that you have to sign; after going through a membership class; and there's a thing on Sunday mroning when you're "accepted" into membership. And it's not that it shouldn't be a big deal, because I am glad for the people who have taken that step of faith and have agreed to the discipline. I think that's important.
I guess part of why I want to at least look at changing it is because it kind of looks like a tiered sort of thing. Like, you can become a Christian, but then you must do this and that and this other thing to really become "acceptable." I would kinda like to change it so it appears mroe real - that we're ALL acceptable no matter where we are in our walk with God. Jesus just asks us to follow... that can be from a multitude of diffrent starting points. So I'm wondering if we should just ask: "Are you willing to follow Jesus with this group of people?" If so, sign your name here. If not, don't. Simple, right? We would probably have it be some sort of renewable thing - like maybe every two years or something. That way we wouldn't have to remove people from membership. You either were still interested, or you weren't.
I dunno. Maybe it's a copout. Maybe it's to keep from having to hold people accountable. Maybe it's to lower the standards. I don't think that's my intent. But maybe it is. My intent is to try to remove the barriers that seem to be there to church membership. To say "You can follow Jesus no matter what your starting point, and we will accept you no matter what and try to help you." That's my point.
Well, my nose is running. I am tired. My mind is Nyquil fried. I've taken Nyquil the last two nights. On the one hand I don't like it because it makes me have weired dreams and I'm a bit sluggish. But on the other hand, I kinda like that feeling when you wake up in the middel of the night - like to pee or something - and you don't know where you are or what you're doing, and you don't really care. :) Crazy.
I need to start on a sermon for this week. I think I'm going to hold off on starting Galatians until at least next week. Just not into it. Can't think straight. Lord, I could use some major help righ tnow.
I don't know if this makes any sense or not. Don't have the energy to re-read it even. Gotta blow... my nose. ARgh.
We have our annual congregational meeting tonight. I think I have everything pretty much ready. I finished the annual report yesterday; just need a devotion and to decided what to talk about.
I think I'm going to bring up the church membership issue. Right now we have a 'membership covenant' that you have to sign; after going through a membership class; and there's a thing on Sunday mroning when you're "accepted" into membership. And it's not that it shouldn't be a big deal, because I am glad for the people who have taken that step of faith and have agreed to the discipline. I think that's important.
I guess part of why I want to at least look at changing it is because it kind of looks like a tiered sort of thing. Like, you can become a Christian, but then you must do this and that and this other thing to really become "acceptable." I would kinda like to change it so it appears mroe real - that we're ALL acceptable no matter where we are in our walk with God. Jesus just asks us to follow... that can be from a multitude of diffrent starting points. So I'm wondering if we should just ask: "Are you willing to follow Jesus with this group of people?" If so, sign your name here. If not, don't. Simple, right? We would probably have it be some sort of renewable thing - like maybe every two years or something. That way we wouldn't have to remove people from membership. You either were still interested, or you weren't.
I dunno. Maybe it's a copout. Maybe it's to keep from having to hold people accountable. Maybe it's to lower the standards. I don't think that's my intent. But maybe it is. My intent is to try to remove the barriers that seem to be there to church membership. To say "You can follow Jesus no matter what your starting point, and we will accept you no matter what and try to help you." That's my point.
Well, my nose is running. I am tired. My mind is Nyquil fried. I've taken Nyquil the last two nights. On the one hand I don't like it because it makes me have weired dreams and I'm a bit sluggish. But on the other hand, I kinda like that feeling when you wake up in the middel of the night - like to pee or something - and you don't know where you are or what you're doing, and you don't really care. :) Crazy.
I need to start on a sermon for this week. I think I'm going to hold off on starting Galatians until at least next week. Just not into it. Can't think straight. Lord, I could use some major help righ tnow.
I don't know if this makes any sense or not. Don't have the energy to re-read it even. Gotta blow... my nose. ARgh.
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