I am on vacation

No work this week. Yippee! You can just call me l-a-z-y.

All the while, there is much ado about the New York Times article on Greg Boyd entitled Disowning Conservative Politics, Evangelical Pastor Rattles Flock. Scot McKnight has some good conversation going on with his post Politics and the Church. And Mike Clawson has a good post about it entitled How To Make 1000 People Leave Your Church.

Also a good post from the Desert Pastor on Rest and Trust that was a nice reminder for me for this week.

Other than that, I need to pack. Yesterday was a good day. Isaac led our worship and did a GREAT job. It was a packed house (honestly, yes, it makes a difference - not ALL the difference, but some). We had a nice lunch together afterward and a nice afternoon/evening. A good day.

Peace, friends. And if I don't see ya in awhile, don't forget to revolution(ate).

Sermons & Softball

On my trip to Ohio and back yesterday I took along some sermons on cd. I listened to Bill Hybels, Mark Driscoll, Rob Bell, Bryan Chapell, and W.A. Criswell.

I had heard the one from Hybels before, but it was still good. Say what you want about Bill, I like him. He actually said hi to me in the hallway not just once, but twice! Rob caused me to miss my turn because I was trying to "track" with him. I had to go to the next exit and turn around. Probably the best was Mark Driscoll. I'd read his stuff, but never heard him preach (Well, I started to a couple times, but never finished). But this message on "atonement" was GOOD. Wow. And... W.A. Criswell was kinda funny. No offense, I'm sure he was a good dude, but it was, well, I dunno, funny; different than I'm used to.

Then Jane and I attended our first church league softball game of the year last night. We used to attend all of them, then fewer and fewer. Our team is really good, and sometimes that creates problems. Plus I just have issues with Christian "competition" sometimes. But, other than the mosquito's, it was a good time.

Peace, mate's. Revolution(ate).

Carrie's Summer Internship

This is our lovely and talented daughter, Carrie, on the last day of her seven-week internship at Winebrenner Theological Seminary in Findlay, OH. (and a fine school, I might add). I wanted to get a pic of her at her desk in her "work clothes", but I guess it was 'casual Friday' and they had an ice cream party for her in the afternoon... so this is her in front of the information table in the hallway.

Here is Carrie & Jenny. Jenny basically runs the place, though her title would suggest otherwise. She is one of the nicest people you will ever meet. I think she probably looked after our little girl while she was there. When we lived in Findlay Jenny was kind enough to pay Jane to clean their house - and it was never dirty! :)

Here's the side entrance to the beautiful Winebrenner Theological Seminary building. I think the main entrance is probably along the back, where it opens up into the University of Findlay campus. It is one fine building. Much better than what was there when I attended in '96-'99.

Just thinking

What a nice, rainy Friday morning. Someday I want to get one of those TGIFriday signs that says, "Where every day is Friday." Because Friday is my one day off, you know. I started today waking up on the couch around 5 am; waited til 5:30 and made coffee for Jane; then turned on the computer (had to turn it off last night due to the storms). Then I had some incredible homemade blueberry muffins (good job, dear). I drank 3 or 4 cups of coffee. Read email, blogs, and news. I actually flossed this morning - since I just went to the dentist the other day it's still fresh in my mind (Sarah says, "floss and flouride!"); so I flossed, brushed, and rinsed for 1 minute with flouride stuff. I didn't realize how long 1 minute was. Now I'm wasting time before cleaning the house; then run my 3.5 miles; eat lunch, shower, and head to Ohio to get Carrie's stuff.

Did you know there is a town called Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada? I would love to live in Medicine Hat! I wish I knew someone from there (hint, hint).

I can't wait for Sunday. Isaac is going to lead worship for us. Yippee. It will be a nice break, plus just a little somethin' different.

I'm still looking for a permanent worship leader, by the way... And a small groups director; and an assimilation monkey; and a projects coordinator; and a missions leader; and a... and a... and a...

Oh, back to Sunday... I start a week's vacation after this Sunday (have I mentioned that before)!!! First Jane and I are spending a couple days at Indiana Beach ("There's more than corn in Indiana" is their slogan). We've never been there, but who cares. It's not here! After that the whole crew, including dog, will be heading to Buda, Illinois - my hometown for the first 33 years of my life. We'll visit with family, and then Saturday is my 25-year class reunion. There's probably only going to be 10-15 people there, but oh well.

Well, that's probably about all the excitement you can take for now, huh? Oops, kinda spaced out for a moment, looking at Isaac's drawing of a girl turning into a violin. Also wonderin how the Wabash Liberation Army project went last night. It was supposed to be a big night. Hopefully I won't read about in in the newspaper. But I WOULD like a t-shirt. It's still a very-much underground sorta thing. Sorry to mention it.

Peace, friends. Revolution(ate) today, okay?

I think therefore I blog tee

I purchased this fine new t-shirt yesterday off of the jollyblogger's site. I think everyone should have one (and blog. well, and think too, of course).

Sanctuary

Sitting around waiting to go to Ohio to help my daughter move home (before she moves back to school). Decided to clean some pix off the camera. Here's the left, front side of our sanctuary. A cozy little place.

Here is a pic of the altar table:

Worship Style: other than traditional, contemporary, or blended

Last week I was asked if our church was "Traditional, contemporary, or blended" (meaning our style of worship). I didn't honestly know how to answer them... because I don't think we're any; or maybe we're all of the above.

I assume "traditional" means singing hymns. Well, there are old hymns and new hymns; you can sing hymns slow or how they're supposed to be played (which is sometimes slow); there are a variety of different kinds of hymns; you can play hymns with just an organ, a piano, a guitar, or a full band. So... I don't know what "traditional" means.

As for "contemporary"... that's even worse. Does contemporary mean you sing praise choruses from Bill Gaither? From the seventies? Does it mean you have a band? Does it mean you sing Hillsong, Maranatha, or whatever other names their are? Ultimately, is it THE lastest, or does it just mean 'later than the old hymnal we used to have'?

And if the first two weren't confusing enough, try blending them. What in the heck does this mean anyway? I knew what it used to mean, but the worship wars seem so far removed.

When I came to the little country church I am presently at, it had an organ and a piano. They used a hymnal and a chorus book. I planned to eventually have a band - maybe in like 3 years. But within a year we had drums, guitars, and a keyboard... and the organ was shipped out. I didn't intend for that to happen, it just sorta did. Now we're probably heavy on the Chris Tomlin stuff, with a Rich Mullins feel. But we do lots of hymns and stuff from worshipleader/songdiscovery too.

This fall we will most likely lose our drummer, bass player, and electric guitarist. While I am sad (mostly because these guys are incredible musicians, and one is my son), it will also be an opportunity for us to maybe change directions.

Some people think I need to go out and find "replacements" for them. Just plug new people into the band. In most churches, this is probably what would happen. In fact, many already have more than one band just for this reason. But our church isn't really about that. We have become "a group." Shoot, we don't even practice anymore. And there is no way I am going to replace these three guys. I don't WANT to replace them. They are special.

I can still play guitar; my wife plays the keyboard very well; we do have another guy that can play the drums. But what I would like to do is find someone else to lead worship - someone who plays the guitar or piano, or both - and who would just lead us himself. Sure, we could have another singer; maybe some hand drums; even the kit, and bass, and other stuff. But I would like to kind of scale back. I think we need to. People get so uptight when we don't have the full band, and that's not good.

My question is... how do I advertise for a worship leader like this? How do I classify our worship style? I can't say, traditional, contemporary or blended... right? So what do I say? I was thinking I could maybe find someone at Taylor-Ft. Wayne U. or Huntington U., or maybe one of the bigger churches around. But I don't want just anybody, you know what I mean?

I would seriously appreciate any input anyone can offer. Sure, my wife or I could handle it, and we have singers... but I'm thinking it would be better for the church for Jane and I to step out of this area. So... I'M LOOKIN' FOR A WORSHIP LEADER WILLING TO WORK FOR LITTLE OR NO PAY, BUT WITH GREAT BENEFITS! :)

Peace. Revolution(ate).

Remember these...

Two exceptional posts I ran across this morning:

One by Jim Martin about Loving them anyway.
Another by Mike Clawson on What is sin?.

50 Most Influencial Churches

Thechurchreport has listed the 50 Most Influential Churches (apparently in the U.S.), and... once again they overlooked MY church. I don't know how they keep doing this. At any rate, I think it's interesting that there is 1 woman pastor. And I don't know if it's interesting because there is "only" 1, or because there even "is" 1. But I like the name of her church: "Without Walls Church". I don't suppose anyone is ever mean enough to substitute a "B" for the second "W". That would not be nice at all, but for some reason it popped into my head. Sorry. I know it's not true. Maybe it's things like this that keep them from listing Fairview in their top 50. Hmm.

On a more serious note... I have only attended two of these churches: Willowcreek (many times) and Ginghamsburg (several times). I have heard several of these pastors speak in person: Hybels, Ed Young, T.D. Jakes, Erwin McManus, Mike Slaughter, Tony Evans, John Ortberg, and Kirbyjon Caldwell. I have listened to or read many of the rest.

Well... peace, friends. Revolution.

The average american blogger

USA Today has an article on the average American blogger: "Today's blog: More creative, less political". So how average are you (even if you're not american)?

I like the snippet they start with from Scottish artist Momus, who said in 1991, "In the future, everyone will be famous for 15 people." Hmm... 15 might be a tad high, but...

Random Thoughts...

This post is going to have some teeth in it.

SNARLING DOG/NEEDY PEOPLE
Last night I was trying to brush our dog. He didn't feel good and his hair was all messed up - which is so unlike him. Anyway, Bogie was aactually snarling at me while I brushed him, so I thought he must not like it. But if I would stop, he would come over and sit right in front of me again. So I would brush him again, and he would start snarling again. Like, he couldn't decide if he liked it or didn't like it. It 'hurt so good,' apparently.

So it got me to wonderin'... is that how people are? I've been a pastor for seven years (this week is my anniversary), and if there's one thing I've learned... it's that pastors need to have thick skin. Because I really think people want someone to tell them things they don't want to hear sometimes - to call them to live better; make better choices; do what they know they should be doing - but they also want to gripe about it. Now, this can certainly be abused, but I think to back away from it you are not really ministering to people. They want to be brushed but they want to be able to complain.

This isn't the case with everybody, but it is with some. And I need to grow much thicker skin.

SO LONG IE; HELLO MF
I made the switch today to Firefox. I haven't figured it out very well yet, but my oh my, how it made a difference in some of the blogs I read. Several of them have the sidebar at the bottom in IE, but they are fine in firefox. Seems to drive pretty good so far.

DENTIST
More teeth. I had to go to the dentist yesterday. Actually, it's more like - I had to go to the dental assistant yesterday (saw the dentist for 2 min.). Got my teeth cleaned - and NO CAVITIES!!! I don't know why I hate going to the dentist so much. Especially since I have the sweetest little dental assistant. Sarah is always so calm, and polite.

While laying there with her hands in my mouth, I wondered... is this what church is like? You know, as soon as they get your mouth open and they start working on you, they start asking you questions. How are you supposed to answer? Do people in church feel like that... like, we're asking people questions, but they're not really able to answer? The worship leader does all the talking and leading; maybe someone else stands and gives announcements or reads something or prays; the preacher preaches AT the people... and if you have a question, or something to say... what are you supposed to do?

I realize some people have addressed this in their worship services. I need to do a better job in mine. Sometimes I do give people the opportunity, and they don't respond... but is it still because they feel like they're strapped down in a dental chair and way uncomfortable? I dunno.

GIFTS
Yesterday I ordered Scot McKnight's book "The Jesus Creed". Paraclete Press is running a special right now where if you order 1 copy, you get 2 more for $1. I told the two pastors that I meet with on Wednesday mornings that they could each have one. Of course they both had a smart remark ready for me. :)

I think that I don't give enough gifts though. I know I don't give my wife and kids enough gifts. I wonder why? I think probably because it takes time and effort to think about others in a conscious way. I need to do that more. And I need to find friends that give more gifts too! :)

ONE LAST THING
Just for the record... I have the BEST kids in the world. My daughter made me cry yesterday with an email containing more kind, and wise, words than I have read in a long time. And it was largely due to something my son had written. Anyway, I am glad their mother rubbed off on them so well. I love you two (and you too dear)!

Peace, friends. Revolution(ate) - any way you can.

Vacation (holiday)

"Vacation is what you take when you can't take what you've been taking any longer." ~ Cowardly Lion (Wizard of Oz)

Can you tell where my mind is? :) I found that quote on Wikipedia (so I'm sure it's legit). Also, listed under "VACATION" they have the Minimum vacation times around the world. It's quite interesting. Many places require 3, 4, 5 weeks or more of vacation per year. South Africa's is 21 CONSECUTIVE days, even.

I'm no economist or sociologist, but I wonder if the length of vacation time is in any way associated with capitalism or not? Just wonderin'.

At any rate, I won't be leaving until Monday, and I'll be back the following Monday. So maybe I'll think of something else to write about before then. :)

Peace, peeps. Revolution(ate)

Soul-Deep Preaching

Yesterday was not a good day for me. I am still somewhat overwhelmed from seeing my post about the EC linked all over. Plus I am having some frustrations at my church - too much to do and not enough time, energy, or desire at the moment. And... I could really use a VACATION (which I will be on next week, thankfully).

I was pretty stressed from the start yesterday. Then I had a few comments made; a few snubs; had a couple kids come and get cookies and then leave; a nursery worker "snuck out" and went home instead of coming into the sanctuary since we didn't need an extra. And I kinda blew it during the service. Not in a "big" way, but bad enough. As usual, I messed up a song; I made the usual fool of myself at different times; but what I regret is that I preached from my frustration rather than any sort of passion. I don't know, maybe they're linked. But it didn't feel like it. It felt bad. There was a serious weight over the place yesterday. There was a serious weight on ME yesterday. I guess the good thing is that it was one of the lowest attended Sunday mornings we have had.

So... this morning I rearranged my reading order and began reading "Simply Christian" by N.T. Wright. I think I've been worrying about too many things that I shouldn't be worrying about lately.

And, for those of you that are preachers yourself, I read a great article by Gordon McDonald (see it here) entitled "Soul-Deep: Part 1". Gordon says he heard this message from heaven: "Don't preach; just talk out of your heart to them about what you've been hearing me say. You're prepared; you're ready; just talk to them." It is a good article (if you're a preacher anyway). That's what I want to do - just talk about what I hear God saying. My fear is... do I hear God saying anything? Maybe I need to quit worrying about what "I'm" going to say, and start concentrating more on LISTENING. okay.

peace. revol...

Love Minus Zero...

Can you complete the song title?

Yessir, that's my ticket to go see Bob Dylan in September. I hope the night's not as blurry as this pic of my tic. :) Me, Jane, Carrie & Isaac are all going. I don't anticipate it being a very good show - that way if it IS good, it will be a real treat. Isaac saw him with Willie Nelson a couple of years ago in one of these small baseball stadium shows. He said it was pretty bad. But, you know, you don't go see Dylan to see if he does a good show or not. He's Dylan! With no conditions, there is no limit to what love can do. :)

Peace, my friends. There's a revolution at hand.

War

It just occurred to me... given the smallness of our world anymore... War anywhere is war everywhere.

Please bring peace, Lord.

Note to self...

A couple of things I want to remember.

1) From Brother Maynard at subversive influence: "Live your faith... share your life." I like that.

2) From Tom Ponchak, off of alan creech's blog:

The first three steps of Emerging Churchers Anonymous:
- Admit that you're tired of always emerging.
- Accept that there's 'nothing new under the sun' so don't take yourself too seriously.
- Understand that the church won't destroy itself if you take a week off.

Very nice as well.

Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).

Oh no...

Sometimes I need to just learn to keep my mouth shut, you know. Now I see I made Scot McKnight's blog for 'lobbing bombs' at the emerging church. Man... I don't want to be known as the guy who doesn't like the ec (can I emerge from this?).

For those of you who know me, you already know it has more to do with me just bein' a complainer. So I repent. I'm going to start looking at things more positive (from the ground up). I need a change of perspective (and I'm trying, but first I gotta get my head outta my...).

Last night Jane and I were at Friday Nite Live at Jefferson Pointe in Fort Wayne. Chris Dodds and Mike Conley were doing an acoustic show. During their version of Simon & Garfunkel's "The Boxer" it was kinda one of those... "God moments", you know. Everything just felt "right." The stars were all lined up. THESE are the things I need to concentrate on; take notice of more. I took a picture of the moment - maybe I'll post it later.

Anyway, I'm going to try to quit making excuses; stop whining & complaining. I say I want a revolution. And it needs to start here.

Peace, friends.

Phone pic

I'm being lazy today. Still sittin' around in my pj's (it IS my day off, and I've already cleaned the house). Thought I would try to post a pic from my phone. God knows I don't use it to talk to people (not that I'm complaining). :)

This is son Isaac (on left) and Graham playing at Isaac's girlfriends surprise birthday party. Yes, that is Danica Patrick staring over their shoulder. Drummer couldn't be there so it was an acoustic show. Very nice at any rate.

Maybe I still am emergent, but just...

My fifteen minutes of (blog) fame came about with the post "Why I Am No Longer Emergent"... and you know what... maybe I was wrong. There's a chance I might still be emergent (if they would have me back). I mean, I even SAID I was yesterday: a denominational exec. called and asked me to do a survey. He wanted to know how I would describe our church: traditional, contemporary, or blended? Hmm... how do you answer a question like that when 1) I don't think those are valid descriptions of "church", and 2) I don't think those are valid terms anymore (at least not in my church). So... I said we would probably be considered more along the lines of "emerging." Sorry, it slipped out. I know I probably look like a big weasel and all, but now I know that emergent isn't a movement, but it's more of a value. Besides, I didn't know what else to say. (What would you have said?)

Okay, so, I say all that to bring up something that Alan Creech brought up in his post entitled emerging church burnout. Maybe I'm not near as fed up with the emerging church, as I am just BURNED OUT. And I don't know if I'm burned out "on it" or "with it."

Alan listed some very good signs and causes, and I'm wondering if another isn't simply the "keepin' up with the Jones's" (nothing against Andrew & Tony - just using the saying).

I think it has helped me to look at "emerging" as more of a value than a movement. I also like how Jamie Arpin-Ricci says emerging faith isn't so much something to be a part of, but more somethign we are informed and influenced by.

Well, I guess I don't have an answer. And if you don't know by now, this blog isn't about giving answers anyway. It's more just a way for me to try to work through my stuff. So, my apologies if you're looking for answers; my apologies if you're burned out; my apologies if you don't want me back among the emerging. What I really want to do is just emerge from this "funk" and find the "joy of the Lord." I think I see it up ahead... I think... if I can just...

Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).

Praying With The Church (11)

I finished Scot McKnight's book "Praying With the Church" this morning. Good book. I liked how it made me feel when I read it. Kind of like when I read "The Sacred Way" by Tony Jones.

A good summation is found on p.158 - Scot is talking about finding a "place of silence"... "not in the sense of the absence of noise but in the sense of attentiveness to God." Then he tells this story:

Ruth Haley Barton uses a potent image in describing what this place of silence is like. Her spiritual director, when she realized how disjointed Ruth's life really was, said this to her: 'Ruth, you are like a jar of river water all shaken up. What you need is to sit still long enough that the sediment can settle and the water become clear.' And that is what a sacred space of silence is: It is simply a place where the distractive sediments of our own life can settle long enough for us to see who we are so we can come to God in utter honesty.

Isn't that good? Sometimes I loathe spending most of my time alone - studying, praying, reading, writing. But what a privelege it is. Thank you, Lord, for allowing me the silence to find you... and to find me.

Perhaps the best contribution I make to this world is the time I spend each morning praying for the people in my church (plus a few others)? I currently have a prayer list of roughly 170 people, and some "issues" and desires as well. I'm not bragging, and there is probably much more I should be doing, but I feel like that not only helps my friends and family, but it helps me -- praying for someone pretty much makes it impossible to be angry or hold grudges; it keeps me in tune with these people's lives; it helps me stay focused on my place before them and with God.

At any rate, that's not really what "Praying With the Church" is about. It is more about learning the sacred prayer rhythms; using prayer books; the importance of corporate prayer; etc.

I have to admit, my prayers usually become pretty dry and mundane after awhile. And using the Psalms and other traditional prayers can add so much richness to ones prayer life. Plus, one of my favorite lines in the book is, "Prayer, like love, seeks intimacy through variety in constancy." (p.161) Yeah... 'intimacy through variety in constancy.' I like that.

Great book, Scot. I give it my hearty recommendation. It's not a thriller, but it should help you find a place of sacred silence. And we all need some of that! I will now be purchasing Phyllis Tickle's "The Divine Hours" to use as my prayer book (or one of them).

Peace, friends. Revolution(ate).

Emerging As A Value...

I want to thank all of the fine 'emerging' folks who offered wisdom, encouragement and insights to me lately. I just checked out Will Samson's article Emerging As A Value, and I have to say... very well put. Here is a blurb:

As I consider the word emerging, I am much more comfortable with it as a value than I am with it as a movement. Now I know how these things get named. Truth is that unlike the Reformation the name “emerging” didn’t come about in quite the same organic manner. Someone somewhere came up with it as a branding exercise. But I happen to think that they got this one very right.

The article is a couple of years old, but still very true. Thanks, Will. Yes, I like the idea of emerging as a value more than a movement (but that's just my op.).

Also, a note to my good friends at the emergingcggc blog... My post on the emerging church has nothing to do with that blog. I think we are having some of the finest discussions we have ever had right now. I just don't feel there is anything I can add to it. So... keep it up!

Peace. Revolution(ate)

The Power of Words

I have to say, I'm a little reluctant to post today. I... I'm not used to having the traffic I've had recently. I'm pretty humbled right now, and that's probably a good thing. I didn't expect more than a handful of people to read my thoughts from yesterday. But... if any of you are back... I'm glad you're here!

Sometimes I'm not aware of the power my words can have. Not just the ones that are here on Al Gore's internet, but every word I say. I usually start writing my sermons on Tuesdays, and I'm having quite the time getting going today, because I've just come to realize that sometimes people do listen.

What bothers me are all those times I FAILED to realize the power my words had. Yes, there have been times I've said things from the pulpit as a way to "get back at someone." I feel terrible about that. There have been a few meetings where I kind of lost my cool. It's hard to take those things back. Even in my dealings with my wife and kids... ouch. Those are maybe the worst. One little comment can slip out and it gets imbedded for good in someone's mind.

It's really good that God can CHOOSE to forget. How about you? Are there things people have said to you that you've been holding onto for far too long? Have you TRIED to forget? I'm not saying it's easy (it's not), but sometimes I don't think we WANT to forget.

What I really wish is that we could go in and delete things we've said to others. Apologies are just not the same.

Anyway... since words do have great power... what kind of words do you feed your eyes and/or ears?

I AM CURRENTLY READING:
- Praying With The Church, by Scot McKnight (should finish it tomorrow). A great book for someone like me who is ignorant about prayer books and fixed-hour prayers.
- Pocket Guide To The Bible, by Jason Boyett. Pretty funny, but haven't gotten too far into it yet.
- Kierkegaard For Beginners, by Donald Palmer. Interesting, pretty brief, funny pictures.

ON DECK:
- You Converted Me (Tony Jones)
- Story (Steven James)
- Simply Christian (NT Wright)

Rock on, friends. Peace. Revolution(ate).

Maybe I Should Have Said...

Regarding my earlier post "Why I Am No Longer Emergent"... maybe I should have said, "Why I DON'T WANT TO BE Emergent."

After receiving a few emails, I guess it does sound a little like I'm pointing fingers, and I didn't mean to do that (I was really just whining). The truth is, it's not that I have anything against the emerging church (whomever they are). I think maybe I'm just tired of the "conversation." Which isn't entirely true, but, you know, I don't know why we can't just be "the church."

The truth is (and everybody knows it) there are people who call themselves Christians that we would just as soon not be associated with. People say stupid things, make wild claims, wear ugly clothes and have bad breath. But you know what... Even if we try to only stick to those like us, there will always be people around us that bug the snot out of us.

So... how cool is God to love us all? To put up with our crap? To be there, and care, and stick with us?

When I say I don't want to be emergent, it's not that I dislike certain people so much (even though I do). It has more to do with not liking the labels. And you can call them something else, but it's nothing short of taking sides to me.

I am a follower of Jesus. I have certain virtues and values that are dear to me. I do things in a particular way, and try to respect that others might do things in a peculiar way (to me). I still think, at some point, it's got to come down to... "Love Jesus and do what you want."

So, if I offended any of you, I'm sorry. If I didn't offend you... just wait, I'm sure I will eventually. :) Yes, I want to be liked by everyone, but I want to be right with God. I would rather be known as a 'friend of sinners' than a 'friend of emergent.' That's not anti-emergent, but pro-Jesus. Let's be Christians boys and girls.

Peace. Revolution(ate)

Why I Am No Longer Emergent

I honestly don’t know if I am emergent or not, or if I ever was. But… I used to have a “Friend of Emergent” button on my blog; I used to tell people that I was “with” the emerging church people; I used to feel a connection with the things I read and saw from those who say they are part of the emerging church. However, I removed my “Friend of Emergent” button today.

Why, you ask? Well, probably several reasons… and I don’t know that any of them are necessarily good. It probably has more to do with why I root for one sports team over another, or one player against another. Maybe it’s just a “feeling,” I don’t know. But…

- I don’t smoke a pipe or have any facial hair in odd places.
- I’m not young and hip and I really hate going to coffee houses, because I don’t know their lingo and feel stupid just ordering decaf coffee (and why can’t I just get a large and have it be the biggest size?).
- I am not well read in philosophy and church history, etc. (I just bought “Kierkegaard For Beginners” and if it weren’t for the pictures I wouldn’t have bought it).
- Honestly, and I don’t know how to say this in a nice way, I don’t mean to be mean, but… most of the people I know who call themselves a part of the emerging church seem very arrogant to me. Like, they have the answers – even though they aren’t going to share them – but “you” certainly don’t know anything. Maybe “smug” is a better word than arrogant.
- I used to think it was the emerging church that was being attacked by “other” Christians, but somewhere along the way it seems the tide has changed. Now the emerging side seems to be on the attack, or maybe it’s more of an “aggressive defense.” I don’t know, at any rate, this having-to-prove-we’re-right-and-you’re-wrong thing really brings me down anymore. As does the making fun of others.
- Perhaps the biggest turn-off for me is a bit more personal. I guess I’ve always felt myself to be somewhat emerging, or an emerging thinker anyway. I’ve always resonated more with postmodern’s or Gen-Xers or whatever you want to call them… but, quite honestly, I just don’t seem accepted by them. In fact, I feel downright rejected. Maybe it’s just because I’m too much of a simpleton, or maybe I’m a complete fool, but for some reason my emails never seem to get responded to, my comments go unnoticed, and whenever I am at gatherings of church leaders, I always feel left out. Actually, it’s more like, “Oh no, here he comes. Let’s find someplace else to go talk.”

So, I guess it boils down to… I am no longer emergent because of the emerging church people. Sorry. I realize it is probably mostly my fault – that darn lack of self-confidence and all. But it also raises the question of motive for me. Why do people want to be aligned with a specific part of the church? Why can’t it just be “the Church”? Is it because they really don’t like some people; they want to have their “own thing”; they just want to hang with the “cool crowd”? I don’t think that is it for most people emerging… but it can certainly “look” that way to some.

At any rate, I understand there are only a handful of you who read my blog. And I hope you know by now that I don’t really know much of anything about anything. My thoughts are fairly simple, rarely coherent, and largely biased by my severe lack of self-esteem and knowledge. So, don’t go thinkin’ this has near as much to do with the emerging church as it has to do with my own state of mind. It’s just me, you know. I will continue to read things from McLaren, and the Jones boys, and others, but… I don’t think I’m “emergent” anymore. I’m just a follower of Jesus. Okay?

This is what I think: We are all messed up. God is wayyyy patient with us. I like Tombstone frozen pizza’s (deluxe). I hope Jesus accepts me.

Emerging Theology

Rhett Smith is posting about a new book "An Emergent Theology for Emerging Churches" by Dr. Ray Anderson (from Fuller). If you're into that sorta thing.

Lots of Grace

It just occurred to me... the last three babies born in our church were all given the middle name "Grace" (I do love that name). We have sang/sung/singed "Amazing Grace" at the end of every Sunday worship service so far this year (our goal is to sing it for the whole year). I plan to use Phillip Yancey's "What's So Amazing About Grace" for a midweek study this fall.

Hmm... do you suppose someone is trying to tell me something? Or am I in a "grace" rut? Can it be possible to have too much grace?

I dunno. Just thought it was interesting. (Much more interesting than a list of my favorite movies, Darrell - I can never remember them).

Peace. Revolution(ate).

Bloddict

Okay, so, like... I can't even succeed at not blogging. I guess I just need to say it right up front: "Hi, my name is Dan; and I'm addicted to blogging."

I really was going to stop. You know, sometimes it just takes so much time. And I had been on the downside of a manic swing, and I always hate to go on and on whining and complaining. But... I guess maybe I got tired of Tom bitching at me for stopping. Well, and, plus I feel better. [Thanks Darrell and Debbie for your off-blog assistance; and Jane, of course].

At any rate, I don't have anything to say, but just needed a fix. I AM going to try to cut back though. I have other things that need my attention. Like, man, I don't know how long it's been since I trimmed my toenails. (ouch!)

One thing... I was saddened today to read that Syd Barrett died of a diabetes-related illness on July 7. He was 60. Syd was one of the founding members of Pink Floyd. Many people think he was suffering with some sort of mental illness in his later years. Either that or it was simply the effects of all the LSD. At any rate, he had become a recluse, and it was very sad news. "Wish You Were Here" was supposedly written for Syd. It should be played on radio stations around the world today.

Peace, friends. Revolution(ate)

Morning Prayer

O Lord, grant me to greet the coming day in peace, help me in all things to rely upon your holy will. In every hour of the day reveal your will to me. Bless my dealings with all who surround me. Teach me to treat all that comes to me throughout the day with peace of soul and with firm conviction that your will governs all. In all my deeds and words, guide my thoughts and feelings. In unforeseen events, let me not forget that all are sent by you. Teach me to act firmly and wisely, without embittering and embarrasing others. Give me strength to bear the fatigue of the coming day with all that it shall bring. Direct my will, teach me to pray. And you, yourself, pray in me. Amen.

[from Metropolitan Philaret, Moscow]

Later...

I think I'm going to take a break from the blog world for awhile - for a variety of reasons which I don't really care to share at this time. I could change my mind tomorrow, or I might just give it up for good. I don't know. Many thanks to those of you who have participated in this part of my life and read my stuff. So long.

You Converted Me

I can think of absolutely nothing to say. So... I will make my obligatory post about the new book I received this morning from Paraclete Press. "You Converted Me" is St. Augustine's classic autobiography, "The Confessions" edited and translasted for today's young readers. Tony Jones wrote the introduction and notes. The note that came with it says, "Whether you are fifteen or fifty, this edition of Augustine's Confessions will open up the life and wisdom of the first, famous, Christian rebel - a man whose heart was set on fire for God."

I got the book for free because I was one of the first 50 people to respond to a post on someone else's blog. I'm special, indeed. I'm supposed to write a review on Amazon.com when I'm done, and talk about it on my blog.

Now I need some time to sit and look at my pile of books to read. Argh. But I probably should read this one. Help.

I hate it when I'm an idiot

Awhile back, on another blog, I made some not-so-kind remarks about a guy named Bob Roberts. He was talking about the need to be more missional and to get outside of our comfort zones... and I guess it created a little crisis in my value system. I thought he sounded a bit arrogant; but, I finally realized that I was just being an idiot. (Sorry Bob. I'm sure you read my blog too).

How did I discover this? This morning I re-read ch. 3 in Reggie McNeal's THE PRESENT FUTURE for our council meeting tonight. It is about "How To Turn Members Into Missionaries."

This is where I really struggle sometimes. I think I understand what he's talking about; I believe what he's saying; I don't question it at all... but I can't wrap my mind around doing it without tripping over my past ways of thinking. You know, like, just when you start to think you have a handle on something, then you come to find out it's wrong, and then you begin to question everything you know to be true, and... well, it's hard. Right?

But I like this chapter. I remember it well. On p.51 he hits what I think is the key to everything for me (maybe): "The point is not to adopt the culture and lose the message; the point is to understand the culture so we can build bridges to it for the sake of gaining a hearing for the gospel of Jesus." !!! (exclamation points mine)

That's understanding why we do what we do (and what I try to make my life about). So then, HOW do we do what we do? On p.61 he refers to Paul and his dealings with the Mars Hill crowd. He says, "It seems that he [Paul] learned from this experience that it was not superior reasoning but superior living and superior loving that was the best approach to engaging the culture with the attractiveness of the gospel." Yeah... that's a lot to swallow. In fact, I should probably chew on it for a good while first. Superior living and superior loving "in" the culture. Any culture. All cultures. A stomach full...

**On another note: One thing that came to my mind while reading this chapter. I have to admit, I had lately been wondering if our church building this picnic pavilion was the best thing to do (I've been listening to too many doubters and complainers). I mean, we "were" trying to gather money to build a multi-purpose sanctuary space. But... I think the pavilion IS much more "community oriented." The sanctuary space would be strictly for "us." The pavilion is something that anyone in the community can use - and at any time. The idea was not to build something for us that we can invite people to use; but to build something for the benefit of the community, and we can use it too. So, I'm okay with it again.

Peace, folks. Revolution(ate).

Lengthen your life

Proverbs 14:30 (NLT) says, "A relaxed attitude lengthens life; jealousy rots it away."

The footnote for this verse in my Life Application Bible says: "If life hasn't treated us fairly, we may think we have a right to be jealous of others, especially those who have more than we think they deserve. But jealousy only robs us of our inner peace. Be good to yourself--say no to jealousy and yes to contentment."

Let's all say it together: "No - jealousy; Yes - contentment." Words to live by, today and always.

The place for grace

I spent half of yesterday sitting in a hospital waiting room. I don't really like hospitals - at all - but I don't mind the waiting rooms so much.

At first I read from Scot McKnights book PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH. It looks good; probably something I need (though I developed an attitude reading one of his comments to a commentor on his blog today - another story). At any rate, I began to notice the others in the waiting area. As people were chit-chatting, or watching TV or whatever... it occurred to me, this is a place of grace. How many people probably sit in waiting areas of hospitals calling out to God; silently praying to him; seeking him? Many are nervous, anxious, out of their normal scene... and what an opportunity to silently pray for others. Just kind of glancing prayers; or prayers for those in surgery, or in recovery, or those who are working there. Perhaps I should make some time to visit these places, and share some grace, say some prayers, try to bring the presence of the Holy if I can.

I read this in McKnights book (p.27) from G.K. Chesterton:

You say grace before meals
All right.
But I say grace before the play and the opera,
And grace before the concert and pantomime,
And grace before I open a book,
And grace before sketching, painting,
Swimming, fencing, foxing, walking, playing, dancing,
And grace before I dip the pen in ink.

Grace isn't just for meals. A simple acknowledgment of God in our day shouldn't be so extraordinary, should it?

Just a thought. Grace and peace.

Passing the peace

Last night Jane and I were in a restaurant and at first it was just a really nice evening - eating out, being with the one I love, surrounded by others having a good time, no worries... but all of a sudden I could just feel this incredible tension in the air. Some members of the waitstaff were apparently not getting along. And they were making it quite known to those around them. It really ruined the mood of the evening. And, even though it had nothing at all to do with me, it effected me... negatively. It made me want to leave (which we soon did); it made me not want to ever go back there.

As I was thinking about that this morning, I began to wonder... how often is church just like that? People come to a worship service, hoping to meet up with God and enjoy his presence along with some others... and then they get subjected to someone trying to create turmoil in the church; or someone with an agenda; or even a pastor who happens to have an attitude problem that day. Man... I shudder to think of the number of times I have probably ruined the mood for someone - both as a pastor and as a lay person. Forgive me, Lord. Help me to always be mindful of the effect and influence my thoughts, attitudes, and actions can have on others.

I decided something we might want to start doing in our church is "Passing of the Peace." Sure, we usually have a time to "greet" one another - to say "howdy, how are you." But Passing of the Peace is much more than that. According to this site (https://www.lcms.org/pages/internal.asp?NavID=4456) even beginning with the New Testament church it "took on a specific function of liturgy... It's function was to visibly demonstrate that all who were present were one in the faith and that no sin stood in the way of their unity." For example, "Consider this: what if you don't want to share the peace with the person sitting in front of you because you are mad at that person for something he did to you or sad about you? The fact that you don't even want to shake hands with that person would suggest that indeed there is a need for reconciliation to take place - a gift that God freely offers through His Son."

Yeah... I like that. A time during our gathering where we say to those around us, "The peace of Christ be with you," and hear back, "And also with you." We're not just greeting one another, we are seeking God's peace upon the person(s) we greet; and therefore bringing His peace into our presence. We are creating a time and space for people to freely come to Him, to feel safe, and among friends. This would be a holy place. This is my desire for our weekly gatherings. Remind me, Lord.

The peace of Christ be with you.