One more in the series, but this turned out to be more of an essay or a sermon than a Lenten devotion. Ah, it happens sometimes. :-)
Psalm 146
Praise the LORD!
Praise the LORD, O my soul!
I will praise the LORD as long as I live;
I will sing praises to my God all my life long.
Do not put your trust in princes,
in mortals, in whom there is no help.
When their breath departs, they return to the earth;
on that very day their plans perish.
Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob,
whose hope is in the LORD their God,
who made heaven and earth,
the sea, and all that is in them;
Who keeps faith forever;
who executes justice for the oppressed;
who gives food to the hungry.
The LORD sets the prisoners free;
the LORD opens the eyes of the blind.
The LORD lifts up those who are bowed down;
the LORD loves the righteous.
The LORD watches over the strangers;
he upholds the orphan and the widow,but the way of the wicked he brings to ruin.
The LORD will reign forever,
your God, O Zion, for all generations.
Praise the LORD!
I know a young woman who escaped a Communist country. Life after arriving in the West was not easy, and my friend spent some time on the streets and then in various shelters before landing more or less on her feet. She began to attend a conservative evangelical church. One day she learned, to her shock and surprise, that the term "social gospel" was used in a derogatory sense at her church. She found that inexplicable and confusing, later relating to me that if it were not for the kindness and charity of strangers she has no idea what might have happened to her.
"The social gospel" was an epithet in my world too. It meant that too much emphasis was placed on charitable works and dealing with the ills of society and the eternal aspects of God's Kingdom were minimized. Was that really always the case? Sometimes. Probably not all the time--and all too often, I now believe, it was an excuse to bash people who were from different traditions--and to feel "righteous."
Where did this all begin? In the mid-nineteenth century, Rev. Washington Gladden declared that he was offended by the idea of a God who would offer his own Son on behalf of sinful humanity. A little later, Walter Rauschenbusch wrote two books which urged the church to leave behind "old evangelism" which was all about salvation from sin through faith in Christ, and to embrace a "new evangelism" which was about salvation from social ills and injustice. Of course, many churches and denominations reacted to what was seen as a misplaced emphasis, and the opposite swing of the pendulum happened (as is so often the case). Many churches strenuously avoided, and sometimes repudiated, any outreach or activity that did not include a clear, unmistakable call to repentance of sin.
Romans 1:16-17 says "I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes...in the gospel the righteousness of God is revealed—a righteousness that is by faith from first to last, just as it is written: 'The righteous will live by faith.'"
I believe in God's power--not just the power of the human spirit, or the power of change (powerful as those are). I believe in the power of God, the power of faith, the power of the Holy Spirit to transform and make us "new creations." If the Gospel of Jesus is simply about social issues, then ministers are really social workers.
Some time ago, radio show host, Glenn Beck urged church members to flee congregations that promote social justice, saying, "Look for the words 'social justice' or 'economic justice' on your church Web site. If you find it, run as fast as you can..." Some angry church folks asserted that social justice is the very heart of the Gospel, while others said that Beck was right and that Christians should flee liberal churches that had abandoned the Gospel. (I think Beck's agenda is political, not religious. His remark, however, was foolish, unless it was calculated to get attention. Hmmm...)
God is just. The prophets, speaking for God, called the people of God to live justly, to care for widows and orphans and strangers in need. The one who pleases the Lord is he who will "keep the way of the Lord by doing righteousness and justice." Israel is told to "do no injustice in court. You shall not be partial to the poor or defer to the great, but in righteousness you shall judge your neighbor." God "has established his throne for justice" and "loves righteousness and justice." Princes are to "rule in justice" and the Lord "will fill Zion with justice and righteousness." The prophet Amos declared, "But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." Micah reminded Israel: "He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?" (Micah 6:8). Today's passage, Psalm 146, emphasizes God's concern for those who might be in extra need of compassion and care.
The true message of the church is not social reform alone. In this season of pondering death and resurrection, our message must be about new life--life lived by faith and the power of God's indwelling Holy Spirit.
Nonetheless, the church is, in and of itself, a social reform movement. Why? Because it is made up of redeemed sinners who are called to faithfulness in following Christ. Following Christ is going to mean we sometimes get radical! We can debate just what that might look like as we seek to bring light to a dark world, and we may come up with different ideas of just what it means to be a disciple. Still, in every case, justice is our concern because it is God's concern.
Christians believe that injustice will not exist forever. The Kingdom of God will bring the end of injustice, the end of misery, the end of war, the end of wickedness of all kinds. We have much work to do in this world, but true justice will be achieved when God's purposes are complete. Meanwhile, the church must share the "Good News" and Christians must live out its implications.
How are we living out this call to do justly, love mercy, and walk humbly before God?
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Monday, March 15, 2010
Hollering for Transformation
Christ and the Canaanite WomanGermain-Jean Drouais c.1784
Mark 7:24-30
Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret. In fact, as soon as she heard about him, a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an evil spirit came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. "First let the children eat all they want," he told her, "for it is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to dogs."
"Yes, Lord," she replied, "but even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs." Then he told her, "For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter." She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.
The Gentile (non Jewish) woman asks Jesus to save her daughter, and Jesus responds with something surprising and disturbing. Jesus seems to be playing favorites and being exclusive. “First let the children eat all they want," (or "let the children first be satisfied") he told her, "for it is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to dogs."
The Gentile "dogs" he refers to are the very ones Jesus has just (in a sense) included (see 7:1-23) by declaring that all foods are clean. Why is Jesus now apparently upholding the intolerance he has just criticized?
There are two primary explanations. One says that Jesus was reflecting his own understanding that his ministry on earth was directed primarily toward Israel. Although "dogs" is jarring to us, it would have matched the manner in which Jews of the period thought of the uncleanliness of their Gentile neighbors. The woman seems to accept the differences, even while she is about to offer an argument. One writer even says that the human Jesus did not yet completely grasp all the implications of his earthly ministry, that he continued to grow in his understanding as the days passed.
Another explanation is that Jesus was using a teaching moment for disciples who still found it difficult to understand much of what he did. Finding someone who would respond in the proper way, he could show the shame of an attitude that considered Gentiles as less than valuable. In other words, Jesus expected her to rise to the occasion--and she did.
I'm not certain of the explanation, but in any case, the woman's response is the real point. She does not dispute the Jews' ideas of who could be holy and who could not. Still, she declares that although a dog may be unclean and therefore lower than even a child in the household, it still receives some notice. Jews considered dogs unclean and generally did not allow them inside. Gentiles, however, were more likely to domesticate them and keep them as pets. A dog would have access to leftovers. Even as she seems to recognize the difference between Gentiles and God chosen people the Jews, she builds a sort of bridge by suggesting that Gentiles, too, should receive God’s blessings. Jesus grants her request because of the power of her argument, recognizing her remarkable faith and tenancity.
African American Brian K. Blount, President and Professor at Union Presbyterian Seminary, has this to say. "Why is this such an important story in Mark’s Gospel? Mark wants us to holler for transformation the way that woman hollered for the transformation of her daughter’s life situation, even when all the signals say, you ought to shut up, give up and go home. If that woman could stand up to Jesus, I think Jesus was telling us we ought to be able to stand up to anybody else or anything else on this planet. You want change? Then you’re gonna have to fight for it. You’re gonna have to be relentless. You’re gonna have to raise your voice!”
Are we bold and courageous enough to "holler" for what is right and good and holy?
God, help us to be strong in the face of opposition. Give us tenacity and unshakable faith, and the courage of our convictions. May we refuse to be silent in the face of wrong, injustice, and evil. Amen
Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre. He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it; yet he could not keep his presence secret. In fact, as soon as she heard about him, a woman whose little daughter was possessed by an evil spirit came and fell at his feet. The woman was a Greek, born in Syrian Phoenicia. She begged Jesus to drive the demon out of her daughter. "First let the children eat all they want," he told her, "for it is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to dogs."
"Yes, Lord," she replied, "but even the dogs under the table eat the children's crumbs." Then he told her, "For such a reply, you may go; the demon has left your daughter." She went home and found her child lying on the bed, and the demon gone.
The Gentile (non Jewish) woman asks Jesus to save her daughter, and Jesus responds with something surprising and disturbing. Jesus seems to be playing favorites and being exclusive. “First let the children eat all they want," (or "let the children first be satisfied") he told her, "for it is not right to take the children's bread and toss it to dogs."
The Gentile "dogs" he refers to are the very ones Jesus has just (in a sense) included (see 7:1-23) by declaring that all foods are clean. Why is Jesus now apparently upholding the intolerance he has just criticized?
There are two primary explanations. One says that Jesus was reflecting his own understanding that his ministry on earth was directed primarily toward Israel. Although "dogs" is jarring to us, it would have matched the manner in which Jews of the period thought of the uncleanliness of their Gentile neighbors. The woman seems to accept the differences, even while she is about to offer an argument. One writer even says that the human Jesus did not yet completely grasp all the implications of his earthly ministry, that he continued to grow in his understanding as the days passed.
Another explanation is that Jesus was using a teaching moment for disciples who still found it difficult to understand much of what he did. Finding someone who would respond in the proper way, he could show the shame of an attitude that considered Gentiles as less than valuable. In other words, Jesus expected her to rise to the occasion--and she did.
I'm not certain of the explanation, but in any case, the woman's response is the real point. She does not dispute the Jews' ideas of who could be holy and who could not. Still, she declares that although a dog may be unclean and therefore lower than even a child in the household, it still receives some notice. Jews considered dogs unclean and generally did not allow them inside. Gentiles, however, were more likely to domesticate them and keep them as pets. A dog would have access to leftovers. Even as she seems to recognize the difference between Gentiles and God chosen people the Jews, she builds a sort of bridge by suggesting that Gentiles, too, should receive God’s blessings. Jesus grants her request because of the power of her argument, recognizing her remarkable faith and tenancity.
African American Brian K. Blount, President and Professor at Union Presbyterian Seminary, has this to say. "Why is this such an important story in Mark’s Gospel? Mark wants us to holler for transformation the way that woman hollered for the transformation of her daughter’s life situation, even when all the signals say, you ought to shut up, give up and go home. If that woman could stand up to Jesus, I think Jesus was telling us we ought to be able to stand up to anybody else or anything else on this planet. You want change? Then you’re gonna have to fight for it. You’re gonna have to be relentless. You’re gonna have to raise your voice!”
Are we bold and courageous enough to "holler" for what is right and good and holy?
God, help us to be strong in the face of opposition. Give us tenacity and unshakable faith, and the courage of our convictions. May we refuse to be silent in the face of wrong, injustice, and evil. Amen
Sunday, March 14, 2010
The Elder Brother
From Luke 15A man had two sons. The younger son told his father, ‘I want my share of your estate now before you die.’ So his father agreed. This younger son packed all his belongings and moved to a distant land, and there wasted all his money in wild living. About the time his money ran out, a great famine swept over the land, and he began to starve. A local farmer sent him into his fields to feed the pigs. The young man became so hungry that even the pods he was feeding the pigs looked good. When he finally came to his senses, he said to himself, ‘At home even the hired servants have food enough to spare, and here I am dying of hunger! I will go home to my father and say, “Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son. Please take me as a servant.'
He returned home and while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’ But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began.
Meanwhile, the older son was in the fields working. When he returned home, he heard music and dancing in the house, and he asked one of the servants what was going on. ‘Your brother is back,’ he was told, ‘and your father has killed the fattened calf. We are celebrating because of his safe return.’
The older brother was angry and wouldn’t go in. His father came out and begged him, but he replied, ‘All these years I have slaved for you and never once refused to do a single thing you told me to. And in all that time you never gave me even one young goat for a feast with my friends. Yet when this son of yours comes back after squandering your money on prostitutes, you celebrate by killing the fattened calf!’
His father said to him, ‘Look, dear son, you have always stayed by me, and everything I have is yours. We had to celebrate this happy day. For your brother was dead and has come back to life! He was lost, but now he is found!’
I know that the parable is about the boundless, generous and loving grace of God to us, his sometimes wayward (and extravagant children, children who sometimes waste his good gifts and ignore his love). In context, Jesus has just told the parable of the lost sheep and the shepherd and the lost coin and the housewife, so we know that it is about the father's joy upon his son's return.
But even though Jesus' parables are simple and short, if we spend some time pondering them we find that they often are many-layered. I don't like the section labels that many translations insert into passages (usually this one is tagged,"The Prodigal Son"), and I think the story is more about the father than about the thankless child. What do you suppose was happening in this home before the son took off, or how might the father have felt? Or try imaging that you are the unseen mother in the story. Or the farmer who takes in a Jewish boy who is willing to feed pigs.
I grew up in church, so this story is so familiar that, frankly, it is difficult to read it with "new" eyes. As a child, I appreciated the love of the father, and I even smiled at the image of him dashing down the road, robes flapping around his ankles. However, I never felt any resemblance to the prodigal son. I was not prodigal (a word which does not mean backsliding or ungrateful or runaway, but means carelessly extravagant). I don't know what it feels like to be carelessly profligate with either my money or my behavior. I was always distressed by the younger son's lack of love for his clearly loving parent. I never hurt anyone if I can avoid it, and I'm generally self-controlled and thoughtful about what I determine to do--sometimes too much so.
Some time ago, while in the midst of a devastating situation, I realized that the one I absolutely could identify with was the elder brother. I read the story, and for the first time I did not see him as simply unreasonable, jealous, and bitter. I saw him as hurt. I related to the resentment, the frustration, the sense of feeling invisible--maybe because he had been too good!
I wondered why it was that nothing seems to have come easily in my life. Why did I try so hard only to feel ignored and overlooked? Why did I hear stories of others being healed while I, and even more significantly, my husband, were not? Why did it seem to count for nothing with God that I had been honest, faithful, ethical and had tried hard to love my enemies?
This unsettling insight, and my subsequent conversation with God about it all, did not completely end my struggle in this area. I'd love to relate that God and I cleared it all up and that all is different now. I can't do that. Not yet. Maybe someday.
Typing this "confession" out now brings tears to my eyes and a heaviness to my heart. It was only a month or so ago that I said to someone dear to me, "Why is it always me who does the hard thing? Why do I do it? It never does any good!" It is quite likely that my frustration and my questions will not be answered.
Some time ago, while in the midst of a devastating situation, I realized that the one I absolutely could identify with was the elder brother. I read the story, and for the first time I did not see him as simply unreasonable, jealous, and bitter. I saw him as hurt. I related to the resentment, the frustration, the sense of feeling invisible--maybe because he had been too good!
I wondered why it was that nothing seems to have come easily in my life. Why did I try so hard only to feel ignored and overlooked? Why did I hear stories of others being healed while I, and even more significantly, my husband, were not? Why did it seem to count for nothing with God that I had been honest, faithful, ethical and had tried hard to love my enemies?
This unsettling insight, and my subsequent conversation with God about it all, did not completely end my struggle in this area. I'd love to relate that God and I cleared it all up and that all is different now. I can't do that. Not yet. Maybe someday.
Typing this "confession" out now brings tears to my eyes and a heaviness to my heart. It was only a month or so ago that I said to someone dear to me, "Why is it always me who does the hard thing? Why do I do it? It never does any good!" It is quite likely that my frustration and my questions will not be answered.
What helps me in this story is the realization that my Heavenly Father says to me, "Dear daughter, everything I have is yours and always has been." Perhaps this older son needed to pay attention, or needed to be more honest about his feelings, or needed to recognize all that was already his because of what his father had done for him, or...?
In the end, the prodigal younger son would not have had a party every day. Next day it would be time to get back into the swing of work and responsibility. The ring and robe were put back in the cedar chest and life went on. And he had, after all, spent his inheritance. Even though he was forgiven and loved and back in the family, he had created difficulties that would likely affect him for the rest of his life. The faithful son would have been better off in many ways, I expect.
I know the story is a parable, but if the story were about a real family I'd find myself hoping that Elder Bro found the strength to face his hurt, his anger, and his resentment, to confess them honestly and to receive the open-armed embrace that I have no doubt would have been offered to him.
Which brother are you? Both are loved, both are forgiven, and both are still children of the Father.
God, I still struggle with this story. I think it is very likely that I'm not the only one who does. I pay that our hearts will not be closed or hard, as it seemed happened in the story. I ask that both the returning runaways and the faithful, and sometimes seemingly overlooked, children of your house will find the strength to confess our sins, share our hearts honestly with you, forgive others, wish blessings for them, and refuse the path of either carelessness or bitterness. Forgive us our sins, dear Lord of grace. Amen
In the end, the prodigal younger son would not have had a party every day. Next day it would be time to get back into the swing of work and responsibility. The ring and robe were put back in the cedar chest and life went on. And he had, after all, spent his inheritance. Even though he was forgiven and loved and back in the family, he had created difficulties that would likely affect him for the rest of his life. The faithful son would have been better off in many ways, I expect.
I know the story is a parable, but if the story were about a real family I'd find myself hoping that Elder Bro found the strength to face his hurt, his anger, and his resentment, to confess them honestly and to receive the open-armed embrace that I have no doubt would have been offered to him.
Which brother are you? Both are loved, both are forgiven, and both are still children of the Father.
God, I still struggle with this story. I think it is very likely that I'm not the only one who does. I pay that our hearts will not be closed or hard, as it seemed happened in the story. I ask that both the returning runaways and the faithful, and sometimes seemingly overlooked, children of your house will find the strength to confess our sins, share our hearts honestly with you, forgive others, wish blessings for them, and refuse the path of either carelessness or bitterness. Forgive us our sins, dear Lord of grace. Amen
Friday, March 12, 2010
Love -- the More Excellent Way
1 Corinthians 12:27-13:3
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
A few days ago I heard an NPR interview with Archbishop Desmond Tutu. It was remarkable because, even simply listening to his voice on my car radio, I could sense something of what it would be like to visit with him in person. His humor, gracious manner, and gentle humility were a lovely start to my day.
He shared that he had always loved church and recalled a childhood memory of often singing the song, "If God be for us who can be against us?" Then he sang the song, and as he finished he said, "I recalled that song later in my life when the big challenges came. If God be for us, and I knew God was, I also knew we would ultimately prevail."
He went on to relate that he had contracted tuberculosis at a young age and had spent nearly two years confined to a TB hospital. He observed that those patients who coughed up blood were all dead a short time later. Then came a day it happened to him, "It just gushed," he told the interviewer. He went on to say that he sat on his bed and talked to God. "I told God that my life was His to take or to save, and in that moment of complete surrender
I experienced profound peace."
He said that as he has grown older he is more content to be in silence with God, "Not always bringing my laundry list of needs but just sitting with God. It is like how it is to sit quietly and peacefully by a fireplace. No words need be spoken, but the warmth is there."
He spoke of love being the greatest aim of believers, and added that Nelson Mandela had been a amazing example of that as, after 30 years of imprisonment, he urged South Africans to forgive those who trespassed against them. He concluded by reminiscing about someone whose name he never mentioned. I think it is likely that he did not recall it. But the memory of the man himself, a bishop, was still fresh. Tutu said, "He loved and cared like no one I had ever known. I wanted to be a doctor, not a priest, but I think without either of us really being aware of it, he was a role model for me. I loved to follow him and observe his way with people"
I smiled, driving along, because I could picture the nameless clergyman, leaning over from Heaven and smiling as he heard this famous man speaking of a long-ago influence of God's love. He, of course, would have had no idea that the young "urchin" (as Tutu called himself) who loved to travel around villages with him would one day grow to be one of the most well-known ministers in the world.
God, thank you for brethren like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu and for the many like them whose names we do not know. Thank you for those who are shining examples of the power of love to transform and heal lives--and even nations. Bless those who, like the unknown Anglican priest, labor quietly but whose lives will leave ripples that go on and on. May I be such a person, leaving behind a legacy of love that only comes from your divine heart. Amen
Now you are the body of Christ and individually members of it. And God has appointed in the church first apostles, second prophets, third teachers; then deeds of power, then gifts of healing, forms of assistance, forms of leadership, various kinds of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles? Do all possess gifts of healing? Do all speak in tongues? Do all interpret? But strive for the greater gifts. And I will show you a still more excellent way.
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.A few days ago I heard an NPR interview with Archbishop Desmond Tutu. It was remarkable because, even simply listening to his voice on my car radio, I could sense something of what it would be like to visit with him in person. His humor, gracious manner, and gentle humility were a lovely start to my day.
He shared that he had always loved church and recalled a childhood memory of often singing the song, "If God be for us who can be against us?" Then he sang the song, and as he finished he said, "I recalled that song later in my life when the big challenges came. If God be for us, and I knew God was, I also knew we would ultimately prevail."
He went on to relate that he had contracted tuberculosis at a young age and had spent nearly two years confined to a TB hospital. He observed that those patients who coughed up blood were all dead a short time later. Then came a day it happened to him, "It just gushed," he told the interviewer. He went on to say that he sat on his bed and talked to God. "I told God that my life was His to take or to save, and in that moment of complete surrender
I experienced profound peace."He said that as he has grown older he is more content to be in silence with God, "Not always bringing my laundry list of needs but just sitting with God. It is like how it is to sit quietly and peacefully by a fireplace. No words need be spoken, but the warmth is there."
He spoke of love being the greatest aim of believers, and added that Nelson Mandela had been a amazing example of that as, after 30 years of imprisonment, he urged South Africans to forgive those who trespassed against them. He concluded by reminiscing about someone whose name he never mentioned. I think it is likely that he did not recall it. But the memory of the man himself, a bishop, was still fresh. Tutu said, "He loved and cared like no one I had ever known. I wanted to be a doctor, not a priest, but I think without either of us really being aware of it, he was a role model for me. I loved to follow him and observe his way with people"
I smiled, driving along, because I could picture the nameless clergyman, leaning over from Heaven and smiling as he heard this famous man speaking of a long-ago influence of God's love. He, of course, would have had no idea that the young "urchin" (as Tutu called himself) who loved to travel around villages with him would one day grow to be one of the most well-known ministers in the world.
God, thank you for brethren like Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu and for the many like them whose names we do not know. Thank you for those who are shining examples of the power of love to transform and heal lives--and even nations. Bless those who, like the unknown Anglican priest, labor quietly but whose lives will leave ripples that go on and on. May I be such a person, leaving behind a legacy of love that only comes from your divine heart. Amen
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Longing for the Presence of God
From Psalm 42
As a deer longs for flowing streams,
so my soul longs for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
When shall I come and behold
the face of God?
My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me continually,
‘Where is your God?’
These things I remember,
as I pour out my soul:
how I went with the throng,
and led them in procession to the house of God,
with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving,
a multitude keeping festival...
My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you...
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
I say to God, my rock,
‘Why have you forgotten me?
...my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me..
‘Where is your God?’
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my help and my God.
In 1984 Martin Nystrom took the words of this psalm and put them to music:
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after Thee
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship Thee
For more than 20 years, this simple song has been one of the most popular in the praise and worship genre. It seems that a longing for connection with God is a somewhat common experience. Reading today's passage, I was struck with this particular question, "When shall I...behold the face of God?"
The psalmist recalls happier days, days of joy, celebration, and exuberant worship. Reading these emotion-packed words, one can sense the tumult in the writer's heart--longing and despair compete with hope, frustration, unanswered questions, loneliness, and once again he returns to hope and a determination not to give up on God.
Can you relate? I certainly can.
This Psalm reminds me of the time when Jesus was speaking of eating his body and drinking his blood--one of the numerous metaphors Jesus used. Many took him literally and became upset.
John 6:66-69
From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Where indeed? Join me today in seeking God's presence. We can find him in scripture, in prayer, in the words of a book, in the care and embrace of a loved one. And sometimes God shows up at the most surprising moments and unexpected places! Some of you may have heard my workshop on "God's Presence" where I share a story how God met me in a profound way while I was watching the movie "Rocky." God will use many things! Watch for them.
Thank You, Gracious God, for times when I can’t handle life’s challenges on my own. In these times, as much as a part of me hates them, I am compelled to recall how much I need You. These are the times when my soul most longs for you. Without your sustaining grace my soul would be parched. You alone can satisfy, refresh, and renew me. When I am actually aware of the presence of your Spirit--ah, these are wonderful times. But I will not give up, and I will not turn back, even if the wilderness in which I find myself stretches on. Amen
As a deer longs for flowing streams,
so my soul longs for you, O God.
My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
When shall I come and behold
the face of God?
My tears have been my food
day and night,
while people say to me continually,
‘Where is your God?’
These things I remember,
as I pour out my soul:
how I went with the throng,
and led them in procession to the house of God,
with glad shouts and songs of thanksgiving,
a multitude keeping festival...
My soul is cast down within me; therefore I remember you...
By day the Lord commands his steadfast love,
and at night his song is with me,
a prayer to the God of my life.
I say to God, my rock,
‘Why have you forgotten me?
...my adversaries taunt me,
while they say to me..
‘Where is your God?’
Why are you cast down, O my soul,
and why are you disquieted within me?
Hope in God; for I shall again praise him,
my help and my God.
In 1984 Martin Nystrom took the words of this psalm and put them to music:
As the deer panteth for the water
So my soul longeth after Thee
You alone are my heart’s desire
And I long to worship Thee
For more than 20 years, this simple song has been one of the most popular in the praise and worship genre. It seems that a longing for connection with God is a somewhat common experience. Reading today's passage, I was struck with this particular question, "When shall I...behold the face of God?"
The psalmist recalls happier days, days of joy, celebration, and exuberant worship. Reading these emotion-packed words, one can sense the tumult in the writer's heart--longing and despair compete with hope, frustration, unanswered questions, loneliness, and once again he returns to hope and a determination not to give up on God.
Can you relate? I certainly can.
This Psalm reminds me of the time when Jesus was speaking of eating his body and drinking his blood--one of the numerous metaphors Jesus used. Many took him literally and became upset.
John 6:66-69
From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more. Then Jesus said to the twelve, “Do you also want to go away?” But Simon Peter answered Him, “Lord, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. Also we have come to believe and know that You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.”
Where indeed? Join me today in seeking God's presence. We can find him in scripture, in prayer, in the words of a book, in the care and embrace of a loved one. And sometimes God shows up at the most surprising moments and unexpected places! Some of you may have heard my workshop on "God's Presence" where I share a story how God met me in a profound way while I was watching the movie "Rocky." God will use many things! Watch for them.
Thank You, Gracious God, for times when I can’t handle life’s challenges on my own. In these times, as much as a part of me hates them, I am compelled to recall how much I need You. These are the times when my soul most longs for you. Without your sustaining grace my soul would be parched. You alone can satisfy, refresh, and renew me. When I am actually aware of the presence of your Spirit--ah, these are wonderful times. But I will not give up, and I will not turn back, even if the wilderness in which I find myself stretches on. Amen
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
What We Do for Approval
The tragic and sordid tale of John the Baptist's death is the subject of numerous paintings. This one, "Salome Receiving the Head of John the Baptist" is by Bernardino Luini and hangs in the Louve. Somehow I suspect that her attire was not nearly as modest as the painter depicts.
Mark 6:13-29
They cast out many demons, and anointed with oil many who were sick and cured them.
King Herod heard of it, for Jesus' name had become known. Some were saying, "John the baptizer has been raised from the dead; and for this reason these powers are at work in him." But others said, "It is Elijah." And others said, "It is a prophet, like one of the prophets of old." But when Herod heard of it, he said, "John, whom I beheaded, has been raised."
For Herod himself had sent men who arrested John, bound him, and put him in prison on account of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, because Herod had married her. For John had been telling Herod, "It is not lawful for you to have your brother's wife." And Herodias had a grudge against him, and wanted to kill him. But she could not,for Herod feared John, knowing that he was a righteous and holy man, and he protected him. When he heard him, he was greatly perplexed; and yet he liked to listen to him. But an opportunity came when Herod on his birthday gave a banquet for his courtiers and officers and for the leaders of Galilee. When his daughter Salome came in and danced, she pleased Herod and his guests; and the king said to the girl, "Ask me for whatever you wish, and I will give it." And he solemnly swore to her, "Whatever you ask me, I will give you, even half of my kingdom." She went out and said to her mother, "What should I ask for?" She replied, "The head of John the baptizer." Immediately she rushed back to the king and requested, "I want you to give me at once the head of John the Baptist on a platter." The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her. Immediately the king sent a soldier of the guard with orders to bring John's head. He went and beheaded him in the prison, brought his head on a platter, and gave it to the girl. Then the girl gave it to her mother. When his disciples heard about it, they came and took his body, and laid it in a tomb.
There is so much wickedness alluded to in this short passage. We first read that King Herod has a guilty conscience, and then we find out why. The catalogue of sin in these verses reads like something we might see on Jerry Springer, doesn't it? First there is an illicit relationship between Herod and Herodias, jealousy, murderous rage, deception, likely a drunken debauch (what else accounts for a king promising "half his kingdom" because of a girl's dance?), lust, foolishness, a mother involving her daughter in murder. Of course, the result of it all is an almost unspeakable horror.
The great and good John, miracle son of Elizabeth and Zachariah the priest, herald of Jesus the Messiah, preacher, baptizer and prophet--this man is the prisoner of a maniacal puppet king. Herod is afraid of him, but Herod is captivated by him as well. He knows there is something special about this man of God, and he resists Herodias' wish that Herod get rid of him. He even likes to listen to John's words.
Then comes the night of the big party, a night that ends with the prophet's head on a platter. As I read this familiar story, I noticed something. I had always assumed that the king was the victim of his drunken lust--caught in a despicable promise made while inflamed with a loathsome passion.
But look again. "The king was deeply grieved; yet out of regard for his oaths and for the guests, he did not want to refuse her." He likely knew that Herodias was behind the request. He was "grieved," and he knew he was about to do something vile. The first part of today's scripture lets us know he was later haunted by his deed.
But the trap cleverly laid for the king wasn't simply his lust or even his incredibly foolish promise to Salome. It was pride. Quite simply, he killed John because he did not want to lose face in front of his guests.
One of the fears common to humankind is of rejection. In my experience, this fear is almost universal and is often deeply rooted. How often we hear of someone doing a foolish or even horrible thing because of peer pressure, because they were showing off, trying to fit in (usually with the wrong people), trying to seem like something bigger and more important than they were. In that, we may have more in common with Herod than we like to think!
I was compelled to take a look at my own life, my own heart. No, I have not done anything remotely like Herod did, but I had to admit to myself and to God that many, perhaps most, of the foolish things I've done in my life were because of a misguided attempt to fit in or to please people. Because of pride born of fear.
As we come nearer to remembering the last days of Jesus' life on this earth, it seems an appropriate time for us to invite the light of God's holiness to illuminate the darker corners of our fears. We can do so with confidence, even though it might be difficult, because we know that God's mercy is abundant, his grace is boundless and his forgiveness is available to all.
Light of the World, illuminate our hearts. Leave no hidden closet, no little private sin, unseen. Darkness builds strongholds in the secrets of our lives and reinforces them by our denial and our silence. Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us, and cleanse us anew by your Holy Spirit of grace. Remind us of who we are, to whom we belong, and what we are called to be. Amen
Monday, March 08, 2010
God's Liberating Grace
Romans 8:1,3,5,8-10So now there is no condemnation for those who belong to Christ Jesus. And because you belong to him, the power of the life-giving Spirit has freed you from the power of sin that leads to death... So God did what the law could not do. He sent his own Son in a body like the bodies we sinners have. And in that body God declared an end to sin’s control over us by giving his Son as a sacrifice for our sins...who no longer follow our sinful nature but instead follow the Spirit...Letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. You are controlled by the Spirit if you have the Spirit of God living in you. (And remember that those who do not have the Spirit of Christ living in them do not belong to him at all.) And Christ lives within you, so even though your body will die because of sin, the Spirit gives you life because you have been made right with God.
I once had a friend who often said that his most fervent wish was "to be as unlike my father as possible." His father, it was true, was an autocratic, mean-spirited, selfish man who made his wife and children miserable. Sadly, as my friend grew older he became more and more like his father--the man he most despised. I found myself wondering what would have happened if he had set his thoughts on what kind of man he wanted to be rather than what he hated.
This passage asserts that whatever we set our minds on will ultimately determine our behavior. Minds set on the flesh lead to death. But the minds set on the spirit lead to life.
Many believers who find themselves enslaved to “do’s and don’ts” may believe they are being transformed to be like Christ. How tragic! God is the source of grace through Christ. “The Law is indeed given through Moses but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ” (John 1:16-17). A legalistic mindset brings perpetual spiritual defeat--an attitude that actually inhibits us instead of setting us free to follow after the Spirit of Life. God’s grace is exhilarating and liberating and leads to genuine holiness and humility.
"Life is both loved and held loosely in the grace of God." Dr. Joy K. Kim
Spirit of Grace, forgive us for sometimes thinking that holiness can be reduced to a list of things we are allowed to do--and things we are not. We do want to bring honor to your name, and we do want to please you. We also want to help others find your exhilarating and liberating grace. Help us to set our minds on things that bring life. Amen
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Judgement, and Surprising Mercy
Luke 13:1-9At that very time there were some present who told him about the Galileans whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. He asked them, ‘Do you think that because these Galileans suffered in this way they were worse sinners than all other Galileans? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish as they did. Or those eighteen who were killed when the tower of Siloam fell on them—do you think that they were worse offenders than all the others living in Jerusalem? No, I tell you; but unless you repent, you will all perish just as they did.’
Then he told this parable: ‘A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came looking for fruit on it and found none. So he said to the gardener, “See here! For three years I have come looking for fruit on this fig tree, and still I find none. Cut it down! Why should it be wasting the soil?” He replied, “Sir, let it alone for one more year, until I dig round it and put manure on it. If it bears fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.”
This passage touches on one of those BIG QUESTIONS. The problem of suffering, or: "Why does God allow terrible things to happen to innocent people?"
The Old Testament contains many passages (the Prophets) that warn that if people did not turn from wickedness that judgement would come. The Psalmist too tells us that while wicked people may flourish for a time, the day of reckoning eventually arrives. Jesus says this too--"Stop trying to figure out if someone else is sinning and look to your own selves, because if you do not, God will not look the other way. " So sometimes bad things happen as a consequence of our actions. (I experienced that one just yesterday when a man with flashy lights on top of his car stopped me, and I did not like it one bit.)
Then there is that tricky book of Job, where along with some New Testament passages, we learn that sometimes there may be a reason behind bad things that happen, and that sometimes these testings and trials can be a learning opportunity or work something good in us. (And sometimes not. Bad things don't always make me "bitter or better." Sometimes they just make me tired. Careful of those cliches that can hurt people.)
But these questioners were not so much asking with genuine sorrow or perplexity. It seems that, once again, some were hoping to trap Jesus, to trip him up with a trick question--especially one with political overtones. If Jesus was not sufficiently scornful of the hated Romans, maybe the Jews would stop listening to him. Or if he did criticize Pilate, even better, because they could tattle on him.
This passage is one of the reasons we'd best be careful when attempting to assign reason to disasters (as happened in Haiti and Chili most recently). Perhaps there is some cause and effect, perhaps God's judgement does play a part...but Jesus is having none of it. He gets to the heart of the matter. It is not whether good or bad things happen. What really matters is how we choose to live, to respond, to be. The poor people who were victims of Pilate's horrible act, or those who were the hapless victims of a bad accident are not really what Jesus' questioners should have been concerned with.
Then the unsettling parable. It was long past the day when the owner should have been enjoying some of his wife's homemade fig newtons and his patience is gone. And yet, the servant shows "mercy" to the tree--just a little more time, a little more care, a little more tenderness. We tend to focus on the lack of fruit in this story. God is the owner and Jesus is the gardener.
But what if we are the impatient owner? Read it again with that thought in mind.
II Pet. 3:9:
"The Lord is not slow about his promise, as some think of slowness, but is patient with you, not wanting any to perish, but all to come to repentance."
If justice is what we really want, we would all be finished. Mercy is what we need. One more year. Finally, however, we have the goal of the wait--fruitfulness.
By reframing the original question, Jesus brings us to the heart of God--a God who will judge, but one who is persuaded to grant a little more time. It is not our responsibility to figure it all out. It falls to us to live our lives humbly before our Creator and to show love and care. God, and only God, will decide when, or if, judgement will come. Don't presume on the kindness; embrace the mercy; wonder about the justice, but we must not bad things be an excuse for failing to change our own hearts and embrace the surprising mercy of God.
Saturday, March 06, 2010
The Good News of Grace
Today's devotion is by Denise Denton, St. Mark's UMC, Raleigh, NC
I grew up going to church every time the doors were open. I heard the Good News – that God loves us so much; that he sent his only Son, Jesus the Christ, the Messiah, in human form to live as us for a time and for a purpose; that he died as the perfect sacrifice for our sin; and that he was raised from the dead and returned to God, where he is preparing a place for us in heaven. I learned that it was only by God’s grace and through my faith in God that Jesus would take my sins away. Me, I confessed my sinfulness and asked Jesus into my heart. I didn’t want to go to hell.
2 Corinthians 6:1 implores us: do not accept the grace of God in vain. Oh my! I think that’s what I was doing when I tucked my “salvation” so neatly on the shelf and went about my life trying not to feel guilty about my sins Jesus had to bear on the cross… I tried to stop sinning, but honestly, it was impossible. I was making his burden worse every day, but I felt pretty sure I wouldn’t go to hell.
What a mess our sin put us all in. There is no one who is righteous, not even one (Romans 3:10). For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). We might become the righteousness of God! What a transformation that should be. That, for some reason, doesn’t compare to my original goal of avoiding hell.
So how do I do this? It still starts with God’s grace and our faith. New paradigm: it’s about God, not me. I confess and am forgiven, and God looks at me and sees the righteousness Christ brought me. As I ponder the Good News that God loves us so much, I rest there and feel God’s love, and naturally, I am learning to love him back. That’s what God wants. He wants us to love him.
As that relationship develops, my love for him makes me want to please him, and naturally, my attitudes and behaviors are going to change because the desires of my heart are changing. I start to see others as God sees them, which makes me love them. I love God and I love you. God does this transformation and God gets the glory.
God, we love you. Help us to love you more, with all our heart and soul and mind and strength, and help us to love each other.
I grew up going to church every time the doors were open. I heard the Good News – that God loves us so much; that he sent his only Son, Jesus the Christ, the Messiah, in human form to live as us for a time and for a purpose; that he died as the perfect sacrifice for our sin; and that he was raised from the dead and returned to God, where he is preparing a place for us in heaven. I learned that it was only by God’s grace and through my faith in God that Jesus would take my sins away. Me, I confessed my sinfulness and asked Jesus into my heart. I didn’t want to go to hell.
2 Corinthians 6:1 implores us: do not accept the grace of God in vain. Oh my! I think that’s what I was doing when I tucked my “salvation” so neatly on the shelf and went about my life trying not to feel guilty about my sins Jesus had to bear on the cross… I tried to stop sinning, but honestly, it was impossible. I was making his burden worse every day, but I felt pretty sure I wouldn’t go to hell.
What a mess our sin put us all in. There is no one who is righteous, not even one (Romans 3:10). For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21). We might become the righteousness of God! What a transformation that should be. That, for some reason, doesn’t compare to my original goal of avoiding hell.
So how do I do this? It still starts with God’s grace and our faith. New paradigm: it’s about God, not me. I confess and am forgiven, and God looks at me and sees the righteousness Christ brought me. As I ponder the Good News that God loves us so much, I rest there and feel God’s love, and naturally, I am learning to love him back. That’s what God wants. He wants us to love him.
As that relationship develops, my love for him makes me want to please him, and naturally, my attitudes and behaviors are going to change because the desires of my heart are changing. I start to see others as God sees them, which makes me love them. I love God and I love you. God does this transformation and God gets the glory.
God, we love you. Help us to love you more, with all our heart and soul and mind and strength, and help us to love each other.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Fire and Hail, Snow & Frost, Praise Him
Psalm 148
Praise the Lord!
Praise the Lord from the heavens;
praise him in the heights!
Praise him, all his angels;
praise him, all his host!
Praise him, sun and moon;
praise him, all you shining stars!
Praise him, you highest heavens,
and you waters above the heavens!
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for he commanded and they were created.
He established them forever and ever;
he fixed their bounds, which cannot be passed.
Praise the Lord from the earth,
you sea monsters and all deeps,
fire and hail, snow and frost,
stormy wind fulfilling his command!
Mountains and all hills,
fruit trees and all cedars!
Wild animals and all cattle,
creeping things and flying birds!
Kings of the earth and all peoples,
princes and all rulers of the earth!
Young men and women alike,
old and young together!
Let them praise the name of the Lord,
for his name alone is exalted;
his glory is above earth and heaven...
Praise the Lord!
Those who know me at all well know that I am from California and that I miss the sunshine. If anyone would have told me, back when I was growing up near Los Angeles, that I would spend a large portion of my life in the snow belt I would have been unable to even imagine such a thing. Who would have dreamed (not me!) that my husband and I would live in North Dakota for several years while we studied theology?
When the time arrived for actually pastoring a church somewhere, we tried to get back out west, or at least south. Such was not to be the case. We left North Dakota and came to Wisconsin and have lived hear for more than 30 years. While a part of me will always be a California girl, I have become a Wisconsinite I suppose, because I eat too much cheese, I love bratwurst with sauerkraut, I own a Green Bay Packers sweatshirt and I also own long johns. I not only own them, I wear them. Still, I frequently wonder, even after all these years, what I am doing in the Dairy State.
Last night was a pensive one for me. I was talking to the Lord about the changes of the last few years. I'm still attempting to absorb the deaths of my mother and beloved sister, the loss of my church, my vocation (at least for now), some long-held dreams and hopes, some of my dearest friends, and more.
Then came the morning. It was cold, about 15 degrees Fahrenheit, but the sunshine was streaming in the window. When I looked out I caught my breath in awe. I've written on this blog before about frost, but this morning was possibly the most beautiful I have ever seen. The "feathers" of frost covering every branch, every tiny twig and sparking in the snow, were over a half inch in length. This kind of frost forms on a cold but foggy day. Usually it is gone as soon as the sunshine hits it, but today was different. Perhaps it was the cold temperature. My 17-mile drive to work took me through frosty countryside, still dressed in some remnants of fog, but drenched in sunshine--and stunningly beautiful. I would have never seen this display if I hadn't ended up in a state I never intended to live in!
I drove through fields, woods (now bare except for their frosty vestments) and evergreens. Each bend in the road revealed a scene more beautiful than the last. I was sorry not to have someone to share it with--and then I realized that the God who fashioned it all was enjoying the scene with me, perhaps even taking delight in my wonder.
I drove more slowly than usual, not wanting my drive through this natural wonderland to end. I thanked God for this moment of joy and began to sing, "This is My Father's World."
I am well aware that some of you who may be reading here are also going through a patch of grey, a time of indecision or confusion, perhaps even grief or a "dark night of the soul." For our prayer today, go back to the Psalm and read it aloud, turning it into a prayer to the God who created it for our enjoyment. And I'm praying for each of you who read these words to be surprised by glory today.
P.S. Sadly, I did not have my camera with me. The pictures are from the web, and are just my attempt to show the indescribable. The real thing simply cannot really be captured in photos, but I hope you get the idea.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Peace! Be Still!
Mark 4:35-41
As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.
Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Peace! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!”
We often face stormy trials and tribulations in life. Some are just the natural result of living on this sin-cursed earth. We may experience problems of natural disasters, such as we have seen recently in Haiti and Chile. We may stuggle with an illness of body, mind or spirit. All of us will have to deal with the sorrow caused by the deaths of loved ones. We may suffer financial difficulties. Some of our troubles may be the result of someone else's sin or disfunction. The innocent, sadly, are not spared suffering in the present world. Some troubles we may face can even be as a result of our faith. This is true in many places around the world. "Yes, and all who desire to live a right life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3.12).
At the same time, some of our storms may be the result of our own choices, mistakes and sins. In 2 Samuel 12:9-14, David was told that he would suffer greatly as a result of adultery with Bathsheba and subsequently having her husband killed. David repented and was forgiven, but he faced many storms as a consequence of his behavior.
God promises that in all these things we will not be alone, nor forsaken.
Sometime before 1874, Mary Ann Baker had lost both her parents to a terrible disease. Then her beloved brother became ill with the same disease and left their Chicago home for a warmer, and hopefully healthier, climate. He grew worse, and Mary Ann also became ill so she was unable to visit or help him. When she received word that he had died, she turned away from God in anger. However, after a while her heart softened and her childhood faith returned. She wrote the following words, based on this story of Jesus but reflecting her own experience:
Master, the tempest is raging!
The billows are tossing high!
The sky is o'ershadowed with blackness,
No shelter or help is nigh;
Carest Thou not that we perish?
How canst Thou lie asleep,
When each moment so madly is threatening
A grave in the angry deep?"
The winds and the waves shall obey Thy will,
Peace, be still!
Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea,
Or demons or men, or whatever it be,
No water can swallow the ship where lies
The Master of ocean, and earth, and skies;
They all shall sweetly obey Thy will,
Peace, peace be still."
I heard this song recently and it took me back to my childhood church. Life was tumultuous and uncertain for me in those days. But how faithful God has been!
Would you like to hear the melody? Here is the best version I could find.
Prince of Peace, we admit that sometimes our hearts cry out, "Don't you care?" Forgive us we pray, even as we ask you to calm the waters. If it is right, may the storm cease as it did for your disciples. Or, if it is better for us, calm the storm in our hearts and help us to trust even as we turn our faces to the wind. Amen
As evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let’s cross to the other side of the lake.” So they took Jesus in the boat and started out, leaving the crowds behind (although other boats followed). But soon a fierce storm came up. High waves were breaking into the boat, and it began to fill with water.
Jesus was sleeping at the back of the boat with his head on a cushion. The disciples woke him up, shouting, “Teacher, don’t you care that we’re going to drown?” When Jesus woke up, he rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Peace! Be still!” Suddenly the wind stopped, and there was a great calm. Then he asked them, “Why are you afraid? Do you still have no faith?”
The disciples were absolutely terrified. “Who is this man?” they asked each other. “Even the wind and waves obey him!”
We often face stormy trials and tribulations in life. Some are just the natural result of living on this sin-cursed earth. We may experience problems of natural disasters, such as we have seen recently in Haiti and Chile. We may stuggle with an illness of body, mind or spirit. All of us will have to deal with the sorrow caused by the deaths of loved ones. We may suffer financial difficulties. Some of our troubles may be the result of someone else's sin or disfunction. The innocent, sadly, are not spared suffering in the present world. Some troubles we may face can even be as a result of our faith. This is true in many places around the world. "Yes, and all who desire to live a right life in Christ Jesus will suffer persecution" (2 Timothy 3.12).
At the same time, some of our storms may be the result of our own choices, mistakes and sins. In 2 Samuel 12:9-14, David was told that he would suffer greatly as a result of adultery with Bathsheba and subsequently having her husband killed. David repented and was forgiven, but he faced many storms as a consequence of his behavior.
God promises that in all these things we will not be alone, nor forsaken.
Sometime before 1874, Mary Ann Baker had lost both her parents to a terrible disease. Then her beloved brother became ill with the same disease and left their Chicago home for a warmer, and hopefully healthier, climate. He grew worse, and Mary Ann also became ill so she was unable to visit or help him. When she received word that he had died, she turned away from God in anger. However, after a while her heart softened and her childhood faith returned. She wrote the following words, based on this story of Jesus but reflecting her own experience:
Master, the tempest is raging!
The billows are tossing high!
The sky is o'ershadowed with blackness,
No shelter or help is nigh;
Carest Thou not that we perish?
How canst Thou lie asleep,
When each moment so madly is threatening
A grave in the angry deep?"
The winds and the waves shall obey Thy will,
Peace, be still!
Whether the wrath of the storm-tossed sea,
Or demons or men, or whatever it be,
No water can swallow the ship where lies
The Master of ocean, and earth, and skies;
They all shall sweetly obey Thy will,
Peace, peace be still."
I heard this song recently and it took me back to my childhood church. Life was tumultuous and uncertain for me in those days. But how faithful God has been!
Would you like to hear the melody? Here is the best version I could find.
Prince of Peace, we admit that sometimes our hearts cry out, "Don't you care?" Forgive us we pray, even as we ask you to calm the waters. If it is right, may the storm cease as it did for your disciples. Or, if it is better for us, calm the storm in our hearts and help us to trust even as we turn our faces to the wind. Amen
To the Next Generation
From Psalm 71
In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
let me never be put to shame.
Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness;
Rescue me and deliver me in your righteousness;
turn your ear to me and save me.
Be my rock of refuge,
to which I can always go;
give the command to save me,
for you are my rock and my fortress.
For you have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD,
For you have been my hope, O Sovereign LORD,
my confidence since my youth.
From birth I have relied on you;
From birth I have relied on you;
you brought me forth from my mother's womb.
I will ever praise you.
My mouth is filled with your praise,
declaring your splendor all day long.
Do not cast me away when I am old;
do not forsake me when my strength is gone.
Be not far from me, O God;
come quickly, O my God, to help me.
But as for me, I will always have hope;
I will praise you more and more.
My mouth will tell of your righteousness,
of your salvation all day long,
though I know not its measure.
Since my youth, O God, you have taught me,
and to this day I declare your marvelous deeds.
Even when I am old and gray,
Even when I am old and gray,
do not forsake me, O God,
till I declare your power to the next generation,
your might to all who are to come.
"How quickly time passes" is such a cliche. I know. But it seems more and more true to me as I grow older. As a child I longed to serve God. I prayed with simple faith, and sometimes I clung to my belief in God's love with a kind of desperation. If not to God, where could I go? As a teenager I struggled to discover who I was, what God had fashioned me to be, how I could serve. As a young wife and mother I prayed for my little family, and I wondered what the future would bring. And now I wonder how it can possibly be that my children are grown, my youth is past, a little person calls me "Grandma" -- and yet some of my thoughts, longings, hopes...are not so different from what they were then.
"How quickly time passes" is such a cliche. I know. But it seems more and more true to me as I grow older. As a child I longed to serve God. I prayed with simple faith, and sometimes I clung to my belief in God's love with a kind of desperation. If not to God, where could I go? As a teenager I struggled to discover who I was, what God had fashioned me to be, how I could serve. As a young wife and mother I prayed for my little family, and I wondered what the future would bring. And now I wonder how it can possibly be that my children are grown, my youth is past, a little person calls me "Grandma" -- and yet some of my thoughts, longings, hopes...are not so different from what they were then.
But now the focus seems to have changed. I am thiniking of what legacy I will leave behind me, who will be blessed because I was in their life, what difference witll I have made? I'm not being morbid, I'm being honest. Perhaps you remember the old saying,
Only one life,
'Twill soon be past.
Only what's done for Christ
will last.
If you are young, do not waste these precious years! If you have small children--ah, I know how busy and frantic life can be, but treasure this time. If you, like me, are wondering where the time went, then join me today in seeking how God would have us declare His power to the next generation. Life is short, but eternity is forever. What will you bring with you?
Only people.
Lord of all generations, help us to faithfully declare your glory, power and love to the next generation--our children and those of others as well. Give us grace and creativity and love that will reach and transform a young generation that is increasingly leaving faith behind, struggling to find roots, boundaries and hope. Grant us too, the kindness and patience to deal gently with our elders. Help us to declare your glory mostly by our actions--and when necessary, give us the words to say. For your Kingdom's sake, Amen.
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Those Crooked, Confusing Places
Ecclesiastes 7:13-14 from the TNIV
Consider what God has done:
Who can straighten
what he has made crooked?
When times are good, be happy;
but when times are bad, consider:
God has made the one
as well as the other.
Therefore, you cannot discover
anything about your future.
and once again, this time from The Message.
Take a good look at God's work.
Who could simplify and reduce Creation's curves and angles
To a plain straight line?
On a good day, enjoy yourself;
On a bad day, examine your conscience.
God arranges for both kinds of days
So that we won't take anything for granted.
We may wait till He explains,
Because we know that Jesus reigns.
It puzzles me; but, Lord, you understand,
And will one day explain this crooked thing.
Meanwhile, I know that it has worked Your best--
Its very crookedness taught me to cling.
You have fenced up my ways, made my paths crooked,
To keep my wand'ring eyes fixed on you only,
To make me what I was not,
Consider what God has done:
Who can straighten
what he has made crooked?
When times are good, be happy;
but when times are bad, consider:
God has made the one
as well as the other.
Therefore, you cannot discover
anything about your future.
and once again, this time from The Message.
Take a good look at God's work.
Who could simplify and reduce Creation's curves and angles
To a plain straight line?
On a good day, enjoy yourself;
On a bad day, examine your conscience.
God arranges for both kinds of days
So that we won't take anything for granted.
We may wait till He explains,
Because we know that Jesus reigns.
It puzzles me; but, Lord, you understand,
And will one day explain this crooked thing.
Meanwhile, I know that it has worked Your best--
Its very crookedness taught me to cling.
You have fenced up my ways, made my paths crooked,
To keep my wand'ring eyes fixed on you only,
To make me what I was not,
humble, patient;
To draw my heart from earthly love to You.
So I will thank and praise You for this puzzle,
And trust you where I cannot understand.
Rejoicing that you trust me in such trial,
I cling the closer to Your guiding hand.
Adapted from a poem by F.E.M.I. in "Streams in the Desert"
Someone asked me why I picked the passages I have here. It's nothing very profound. I'm using the Lectionaray most of the time, sometimes Catholic, sometimes Episcopalian, sometimes Presbyterian. It is a sort of discipline for me.
To draw my heart from earthly love to You.
So I will thank and praise You for this puzzle,
And trust you where I cannot understand.
Rejoicing that you trust me in such trial,
I cling the closer to Your guiding hand.
Adapted from a poem by F.E.M.I. in "Streams in the Desert"
Someone asked me why I picked the passages I have here. It's nothing very profound. I'm using the Lectionaray most of the time, sometimes Catholic, sometimes Episcopalian, sometimes Presbyterian. It is a sort of discipline for me.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
A New Heritage
From Psalm 61
Hear my cry, O God;
listen to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I call to you,
when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
that is higher than I;
for you are my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy.
Let me abide in your tent for ever,
find refuge under the shelter of your wings.
For you, O God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
So I will always sing praises to your name!
Every Tuesday I drive to the prison where my husband, Ken, is chaplain. I lead a weekly Bible study there, "Principles for Successful Living." We're studying the Sermon on the Mount. First the gatehouse, scanner and metal detectors, razor wire, fences and a gate and then a van ride to the pointy-topped chapel building.
Why am I sharing this? Because when I read this:
Let me abide in your tent for ever,
find refuge under the shelter of your wings.
For you, O God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name
I think of these men. They are out of sight and out of the minds of most of us, except for when someone complains about the country club atmosphere of US prisons. (I always wonder if any of those people have actually been inside a prison. It is not a country club.) But they are here, behind walls, razor wire fences, and locked gates. They cry, laugh, go to church, sing in the choir, study over at the prison school. There are exceptions, but mostly they are men with dreadful pasts and little hope for the future. Their heritage has been poverty, absent fathers, sexual experiences no child should have, drugs, gangs, violence and hopelessness. Those who do find their way to the chapel often are longing for refuge, for shelter and safety they may have never known.
But as I look at them, here to study God's word with me, I rejoice that they have received a different kind of heritage. They are my brothers in Christ, and I always sense the presence of the Holy Spirit when I am at the prison chapel.
God loves them. God sees them--drab clothes, guarded faces, shuffling with nowhere special to go. For the few who are willing, he grants a new heritage, one of hope and love and possibilities.
Are you among those who do not have a heritage of a godly home and loving parents? You do not have to be incarcerated to be among those of us who inherited pain.
God sees, and God loves you. God is the safe place.
Psalm 16:1-2
Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing."
As for the saints who are in the land,
they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight.
Hear my cry, O God;
listen to my prayer.
From the end of the earth I call to you,
when my heart is faint.
Lead me to the rock
that is higher than I;
for you are my refuge,
a strong tower against the enemy.
Let me abide in your tent for ever,
find refuge under the shelter of your wings.
For you, O God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name.
So I will always sing praises to your name!
Every Tuesday I drive to the prison where my husband, Ken, is chaplain. I lead a weekly Bible study there, "Principles for Successful Living." We're studying the Sermon on the Mount. First the gatehouse, scanner and metal detectors, razor wire, fences and a gate and then a van ride to the pointy-topped chapel building.
In the chapel basement, men are milling about, checking out books from the chapel library, heading upstairs to practice for choir, selecting greeting cards to send home, talking to the chaplain. There are smiles and friendly conversation. The little room where our Bible study is about to begin is crowded with very uncomfortable plastic chairs. The air is a stuffy and smells like sweat, hair pomade, floor wax and something unidentifiable.
In come "my guys" as I always think of them. Today the room is crowded, all but one chair occupied. I look around the room. There is J, young, sad eyes, always smiling gently. J is quiet but when he does have something to say it is worth hearing. He wants to learn Greek so he can study the New Testament in its original language. I don't want to know what this handsome young man, who worries about his mom and prays for his family, did to come here.
Across the room is H, pale and freckled with red hair pulled back in a long ponytail, always leaning forward in anticipation, Bible on knee. There is S, the slowest of the group, dumpy, stringy blond hair, thick glasses, not very clean. He never speaks, but he nods when he likes a point we are making. He always has a sort of questioning look on his face. I'm sad for him because it seems like normal interaction is beyond him. He comes every week though, so he must be enjoying something.
T is smiling broadly. His skin is as smooth as a child's and is a beautiful coffee-with-cream shade. It is impossible to tell his age. He speaks without a trace of the urban accent so prevelant in prison. "I'm so glad to be back, pastor! I spent six weeks in AODA programming. I'm glad I did it and I learned good things, but I certainly missed you and the others here," and he gestures happily around the room before shaking my hand warmly.
W is an elderly man, grizzled hair, deep wrinkles. I'm pretty sure he is a "lifer." He always treats me with grave courtesy. He's been here a long time. The others respect him and if I didn't know better I might think he was an elderly pastor or church deacon. He knows his Bible and has spent a lot of time studying over the years. His words are measured and insightful. C is the loud one, short and broad in stature, and always wanting to be heard. He is a little hard to deal with, but if I ask for someone to pray he always volunteers and his prayers always touch my heart. He is a kid in a grown body. He worries if he will make it when he gets out and frequently asks me to pray that he will learn what he needs to learn in order not to come back. P is scary, the only one in the room who actually looks like what most of us picture when we hear the word "felon." He looks like a biker bad boy, has a hard face, tattoos on his hands, scars on his face and a perpetual wary, closed expression. His arms remain folded, and he leans back in his chair, but he stays.
Why am I sharing this? Because when I read this:
Let me abide in your tent for ever,
find refuge under the shelter of your wings.
For you, O God, have heard my vows;
you have given me the heritage of those who fear your name
I think of these men. They are out of sight and out of the minds of most of us, except for when someone complains about the country club atmosphere of US prisons. (I always wonder if any of those people have actually been inside a prison. It is not a country club.) But they are here, behind walls, razor wire fences, and locked gates. They cry, laugh, go to church, sing in the choir, study over at the prison school. There are exceptions, but mostly they are men with dreadful pasts and little hope for the future. Their heritage has been poverty, absent fathers, sexual experiences no child should have, drugs, gangs, violence and hopelessness. Those who do find their way to the chapel often are longing for refuge, for shelter and safety they may have never known.
But as I look at them, here to study God's word with me, I rejoice that they have received a different kind of heritage. They are my brothers in Christ, and I always sense the presence of the Holy Spirit when I am at the prison chapel.
God loves them. God sees them--drab clothes, guarded faces, shuffling with nowhere special to go. For the few who are willing, he grants a new heritage, one of hope and love and possibilities.
Are you among those who do not have a heritage of a godly home and loving parents? You do not have to be incarcerated to be among those of us who inherited pain.
God sees, and God loves you. God is the safe place.
Psalm 16:1-2
Keep me safe, O God, for in you I take refuge.
I said to the LORD, "You are my Lord;
apart from you I have no good thing."
As for the saints who are in the land,
they are the glorious ones in whom is all my delight.
Monday, March 01, 2010
Building Up Faith and Joy
Romans 5:1-3,6-10
Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son.
My daughter told me earlier today that their pastor was talking this a.m. in church about how many people feel this is a mournful time of year, and we do not need to mourn--what Jesus did to reconcile us to God is cause for celebration. Resurrection life has come, after all, and we don't really have to wait till Easter Sunday to acknowledge it.
He is, of course, absolutely right. Perhaps this relates to my post about why we free church types tend not to acknowledge a lenten season. I am thinking of this time of "bright sadness" --a time which lends itself to some self-examination, some repentance, perhaps some godly sorrow, as much like what Jesus said on his last night with his beloved friends...."remember me...until I come."
We -- humanity--we were the reason. Let's look back together to remember, be thankful ponder our Redeemer, and let's also look forward with joy because of what has been accomplished through our Lord Jesus Christ.
A friend recently said, "Throughout the years the meaning of the Lenten season has changed for me. I remember as a kid how this was a season of penance and sadness - everything was geared towards the negative. But like many things, the season has changed for me - no longer a time to 'tear down' but ... instead a season of building - a time of rejoicing that Jesus accepted His destiny to give me the opportunity to someday spend eternity with Him."
Amen!
Therefore, since we have been made right in God’s sight by faith, we have peace with God because of what Jesus Christ our Lord has done for us. Because of our faith, Christ has brought us into this place of undeserved privilege where we now stand, and we confidently and joyfully look forward to sharing God’s glory. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love.
When we were utterly helpless, Christ came at just the right time and died for us sinners. Now, most people would not be willing to die for an upright person, though someone might perhaps be willing to die for a person who is especially good. But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation. For since our friendship with God was restored by the death of his Son while we were still his enemies, we will certainly be saved through the life of his Son.
My daughter told me earlier today that their pastor was talking this a.m. in church about how many people feel this is a mournful time of year, and we do not need to mourn--what Jesus did to reconcile us to God is cause for celebration. Resurrection life has come, after all, and we don't really have to wait till Easter Sunday to acknowledge it.
He is, of course, absolutely right. Perhaps this relates to my post about why we free church types tend not to acknowledge a lenten season. I am thinking of this time of "bright sadness" --a time which lends itself to some self-examination, some repentance, perhaps some godly sorrow, as much like what Jesus said on his last night with his beloved friends...."remember me...until I come."
We -- humanity--we were the reason. Let's look back together to remember, be thankful ponder our Redeemer, and let's also look forward with joy because of what has been accomplished through our Lord Jesus Christ.
A friend recently said, "Throughout the years the meaning of the Lenten season has changed for me. I remember as a kid how this was a season of penance and sadness - everything was geared towards the negative. But like many things, the season has changed for me - no longer a time to 'tear down' but ... instead a season of building - a time of rejoicing that Jesus accepted His destiny to give me the opportunity to someday spend eternity with Him."
Amen!
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Jesus Mourns for Jerusalem
Luke 13:31-35
At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, "Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you." He said to them, "Go and tell that fox for me, 'Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.' Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, 'Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.'"
If you have ever loved someone you could not protect, then you understand the depth of Jesus' lament. All you can do is open your arms. You cannot make anyone walk into them. Meanwhile, this is the most vulnerable posture in the world --wings spread, breast exposed --but if you mean what you say, then this is how you stand. ...
Jesus...a mother hen, who stands between the chicks and those who mean to do them harm. She has no fangs, no claws, no rippling muscles. All she has is her willingness to shield her babies with her own body. If the fox wants them, he will have to kill her first; which he does, as it turns out. He slides up on her one night in the yard while all the babies are asleep. When her cry wakens them, they scatter.
She dies the next day where both foxes and chickens can see her -- wings spread, breast exposed -- without a single chick beneath her feathers. It breaks her heart . . . but if you mean what you say, then this is how you stand.
-Barbara Brown Taylor Christian Century 2/25/86
At that very hour some Pharisees came and said to him, "Get away from here, for Herod wants to kill you." He said to them, "Go and tell that fox for me, 'Listen, I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work. Yet today, tomorrow, and the next day I must be on my way, because it is impossible for a prophet to be killed outside of Jerusalem.' Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, 'Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.'"
If you have ever loved someone you could not protect, then you understand the depth of Jesus' lament. All you can do is open your arms. You cannot make anyone walk into them. Meanwhile, this is the most vulnerable posture in the world --wings spread, breast exposed --but if you mean what you say, then this is how you stand. ...
Jesus...a mother hen, who stands between the chicks and those who mean to do them harm. She has no fangs, no claws, no rippling muscles. All she has is her willingness to shield her babies with her own body. If the fox wants them, he will have to kill her first; which he does, as it turns out. He slides up on her one night in the yard while all the babies are asleep. When her cry wakens them, they scatter.
She dies the next day where both foxes and chickens can see her -- wings spread, breast exposed -- without a single chick beneath her feathers. It breaks her heart . . . but if you mean what you say, then this is how you stand.
-Barbara Brown Taylor Christian Century 2/25/86
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Fasting
Fasting during Lent is a time-honored practice for many churches, as most of us probably know, but sometimes in some places it seems to have become rather perfunctory--"What are you giving up for Lent?" The mere action of giving up something is not the point. God is not impressed with sacrifice if no thought goes into it!
Consider the following:
Isaiah 58:6-9
This is the kind of fast day I'm after:
to break the chains of injustice,
get rid of exploitation in the workplace,
free the oppressed,
cancel debts.
What I'm interested in seeing you do is:
sharing your food with the hungry,
inviting the homeless poor into your homes,
putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad,
being available to your own families.
Do this and the lights will turn on,
and your lives will turn around at once.
Your righteousness will pave your way.
The God of glory will secure your passage.
Then when you pray, God will answer.
You'll call out for help and I'll say, 'Here I am.'
What an interesting pasage. We clearly see God's heart for people--his most valued creation. Those of us who avoid any hint of something called a "social gospel" might want to read that passage more than once. Fasting is not about being pitiful, or pious, or twisting God's arm, so to speak, to do something you want done. It is, rather, a time to consider our hearts, our behavior towards others, to renew the lost art (for many of us) of hospitality, to give, to forgive debt, to see homeless people as people, to truly be present in the lives of other.
Consider the following:
Isaiah 58:6-9
This is the kind of fast day I'm after:
to break the chains of injustice,
get rid of exploitation in the workplace,
free the oppressed,
cancel debts.
What I'm interested in seeing you do is:
sharing your food with the hungry,
inviting the homeless poor into your homes,
putting clothes on the shivering ill-clad,
being available to your own families.
Do this and the lights will turn on,
and your lives will turn around at once.
Your righteousness will pave your way.
The God of glory will secure your passage.
Then when you pray, God will answer.
You'll call out for help and I'll say, 'Here I am.'
What an interesting pasage. We clearly see God's heart for people--his most valued creation. Those of us who avoid any hint of something called a "social gospel" might want to read that passage more than once. Fasting is not about being pitiful, or pious, or twisting God's arm, so to speak, to do something you want done. It is, rather, a time to consider our hearts, our behavior towards others, to renew the lost art (for many of us) of hospitality, to give, to forgive debt, to see homeless people as people, to truly be present in the lives of other.
Matthew 6:16-18 When you fast, do not put on a sad face as the hypocrites do. They neglect their appearance so that everyone will see that they are fasting. I assure you, they have already been paid in full. When you go without food, wash your face and comb your hair, 18 so that others cannot know that you are fasting, only your Father, who is unseen, will know. And your Father, who sees what you do in private, will reward you.
So much for sharing what we are giving up. :-)
Several years ago I decided to do some fasting during Lent. I had fasted, on and off, for a long time, but never as a sort of pre-Easter disciple. I used materials from churches more traditional than my own. The experience was meaningful as it helped me focus, find time to spend with God, and emphasize my spirit instad of my physical body. I do not think the body is bad, by any means, but it is so easy to be aware of it and its needs and desires--I mean it is so present with us. Our spiritual life is much easier to put out of our minds.
Perhaps you have never fasted before, or perhaps you are a veteran of this spiritual practice. There is something for all of us. I recently found these suggestions and found some familiar and some new ideas.
SUGGESTED FAST ITEMS:
(Courtesy of D. Maddelena)
Food: Meats, poultry (eggs too), fats and oils, soft drinks, 2nd helpings
Alcohol
Coffee (try tea or some other low-caffeine drink if you get headaches)
Dairy (milk and cheese)
Solid foods (only drink water or juices)
Junk foods (chips, snacks, salty food), candy (plus refined sugar in general), and dessert (great for kids—very meaningful!).
Media: TV, movies, computer, email (set an auto responder), Internet, magazines, radio, the phone (leave your cell phone off when appropriate), handhelds, video games, and other technology
Other Things: You may want to fast from certain relationships, or people in general, choosing instead to walk only with God for a period. You may also fast from social events, parties, or clubs, if you regularly go out of your way for that kind of gathering.
Days: Leave it all behind: leave junk food, TV, cars, noise, and all the media and messages of the culture. Pack the very minimum (water, warm clothes, etc.) and find a trail, a mountain, or a beach, and feast on God.
Imitate Jesus, who took whole days to walk alone in the wilderness fasting and praying.
Use the time you would spend eating to do something else with God. The same goes for fasting from media, or any other kind of fast.
Give God the time and the room that he wants. God wants to fill you up, wants to bless you. If we are constantly pouring other stuff into our heads or stomachs, there will be little room for God.
If you are going to join me in this spiritual disciple at some time before Easter, let me know and I will keep you in my thoughts and prayers.
God, help us to be wise about what we do (and do not do) and when and how we go about it. Help us to love and pray and laugh and live with abandon. May it be the kind of fast that you have shown pleases you, one that is about others and doing what is right. Amen
Friday, February 26, 2010
Why Not Just Skip to Easter? Part Two
Like the Apostle Paul, we face the continuing struggle to live as the children of God and the recipients of grace that God says we are. As we recall the events that led up to the glory of resurrection, we might acknowledge that we, like his disciples, would have slept as Jesus prayed for deliverance in the garden. We ponder whether we would have denied knowing him as he silently accepted his death sentence. We can, perhaps once again or perhaps for the first time, acknowledge the depth of what happened to Jesus, consider how he responded, and marvel at what he did on the cross.
When we come to the Lord's table we are cautioned not to do so mindlessly or lightly, but to partake of the body and blood with awareness and a right spirit. The same can be said for how we approach the mystery of how Messiah "was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities" (Isaiah 53:5).
Some years ago I realized that I was becoming too insulated. I spent most of my time with fellow Christians. I volunteered at the church and Ken and I were planning to study theology as soon as possible. One night I knelt by my bedside praying for a family member who was living in darkness. I didn't feel much compassion, and I asked God to help me realize what it was like to live without God as opposed to being a child of light (as Ephesians so gloriously describes it). I don't know what I expected, or if I expected anything, but something happened. I felt plunged into loneliness, hopelessness, sadmess and darkness. Fortunately the experience only lasted a few moments, but I will never forget it. Life without God? Unthinkable!
A stay in the garden and at the foot of the cross makes grace and resurrection life all the sweeter. We face what life was, is, and can be. We once again receive comfort, love, mercy, grace and forgiveness. How our hearts can then cry out, "Thanks be to God who gives us the victory through Jesus Christ our Lord."
God of Grace, I pray that we, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord's people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ. Grant that we will know this love that surpasses knowledge—that we may be filled with the fullness that comes of God. Amen
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Why Not Just Skip to Easter? -- Part One
Condensed from Romans 6
Now if we died with Christ we will also live with Him. Death no longer rules over Him. He died to sin once for all. He lives to God. You too, consider yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Do not let sin reign in your mortal body. Do not offer any parts of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God.
Having been liberated from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness. I am using a human analogy because of [your weakness]. For just as you offered your bodies as slaves to moral impurity and lawlessness, so now offer them as slaves to righteousness which results in sanctification —and the end is eternal life! For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Many churches of the Protestant variety, particularly of the "evangelical camp," do not participate in Lent. Lent was something for Catholics (and thus the unspoken assumption was that it was anathema for me). A formerly-Catholic parishioner of mine once said, "It was a relief to leave it behind. After all, it was all about Jesus hanging on the cross and the broken body and the blood anyway, all the time, every Sunday. By the time Lent was over I just couldn't stand it any more, and then it was one day of relief and celebration and then back to the cross."
So it seems, perhaps partly to avoid what was perceived as an undue emphasis on the "bad news" and not enough on the "good news" of the season, we left the sorrow and contemplation of Lent behind. I was over forty years of age before I participated in a Good Friday service--and I am one of those who "cut my teeth on a pew" so it wasn't for lack of being in church.
We are more comfortable with the joy and celebration of Easter than with the darkness that preceded it, and I think that is a good thing. I do not want to dwell on sin and struggle--I want to "live to God" as Paul tells us. But this time is a chance to remember the dark before the dawn, the bondage before the freedom, the loss before the gain. The Orthodox Church calls this time "the season of Bright Sadness," because it is a time of both celebration and mourning.
Jesus' work is done; he's in Heaven. The sting of death has been conquered, and Jesus Christ is Victor. So why should we think about the darkness at all?
There are more reasons than I have time for in this post. Here is just one. Sometimes we must come face to face with ourselves in order to truly see the glory of God's grace.
Jesus cautioned us to count the cost, to die to ourselves, to love our enemies, pray for those who do not treat us right, to be light in a dark world. Loving our enemies doesn't come naturally. Swimming against the current of a culture increasingly comfortable with wickedness doesn't either. If we genuinely want to do this, it is only possible through God's grace. To show genuine mercy and compassion without being smug or self righteous means we do well to take heed to ourselves and our own weakness (being strengthened day by day yes--glory be to God--but not yet perfected).
Now if we died with Christ we will also live with Him. Death no longer rules over Him. He died to sin once for all. He lives to God. You too, consider yourselves dead to sin, but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Do not let sin reign in your mortal body. Do not offer any parts of it to sin as weapons for unrighteousness. But as those who are alive from the dead, offer yourselves to God.
Having been liberated from sin, you became enslaved to righteousness. I am using a human analogy because of [your weakness]. For just as you offered your bodies as slaves to moral impurity and lawlessness, so now offer them as slaves to righteousness which results in sanctification —and the end is eternal life! For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.
Many churches of the Protestant variety, particularly of the "evangelical camp," do not participate in Lent. Lent was something for Catholics (and thus the unspoken assumption was that it was anathema for me). A formerly-Catholic parishioner of mine once said, "It was a relief to leave it behind. After all, it was all about Jesus hanging on the cross and the broken body and the blood anyway, all the time, every Sunday. By the time Lent was over I just couldn't stand it any more, and then it was one day of relief and celebration and then back to the cross."
So it seems, perhaps partly to avoid what was perceived as an undue emphasis on the "bad news" and not enough on the "good news" of the season, we left the sorrow and contemplation of Lent behind. I was over forty years of age before I participated in a Good Friday service--and I am one of those who "cut my teeth on a pew" so it wasn't for lack of being in church.
We are more comfortable with the joy and celebration of Easter than with the darkness that preceded it, and I think that is a good thing. I do not want to dwell on sin and struggle--I want to "live to God" as Paul tells us. But this time is a chance to remember the dark before the dawn, the bondage before the freedom, the loss before the gain. The Orthodox Church calls this time "the season of Bright Sadness," because it is a time of both celebration and mourning.
Jesus' work is done; he's in Heaven. The sting of death has been conquered, and Jesus Christ is Victor. So why should we think about the darkness at all?
There are more reasons than I have time for in this post. Here is just one. Sometimes we must come face to face with ourselves in order to truly see the glory of God's grace.
Jesus cautioned us to count the cost, to die to ourselves, to love our enemies, pray for those who do not treat us right, to be light in a dark world. Loving our enemies doesn't come naturally. Swimming against the current of a culture increasingly comfortable with wickedness doesn't either. If we genuinely want to do this, it is only possible through God's grace. To show genuine mercy and compassion without being smug or self righteous means we do well to take heed to ourselves and our own weakness (being strengthened day by day yes--glory be to God--but not yet perfected).
More about this tomorrow.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Who Was This Man?
Matthew 5:21-22.27-28,33-34,43-44 and 7:28 NIV)
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.' But I tell you, Do not swear at all...
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,
Who is this teacher who can say such things? These things are impossible!
Jewish scholar Jacob Neusner wrote a book titled "A Rabbi Talks with Jesus," in which he says he is “impressed – and moved” by the teachings of Jesus, admitting that he would have joined the crowd following Jesus around. He also acknowledges that he would have parted company with Jesus, not because of Jesus' teachings but because he made demands that only God can make.
You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not murder, and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.' But I tell you that anyone who is angry with his brother will be subject to judgment. Again, anyone who says to his brother, 'Raca,' is answerable to the Sanhedrin. But anyone who says, 'You fool!' will be in danger of the fire of hell.
You have heard that it was said, 'Do not commit adultery.' But I tell you that anyone who looks at a woman lustfully has already committed adultery with her in his heart.
Again, you have heard that it was said to the people long ago, 'Do not break your oath, but keep the oaths you have made to the Lord.' But I tell you, Do not swear at all...
You have heard that it was said, 'Love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you...
When Jesus had finished saying these things, the crowds were amazed at his teaching,
Who is this teacher who can say such things? These things are impossible!
Jewish scholar Jacob Neusner wrote a book titled "A Rabbi Talks with Jesus," in which he says he is “impressed – and moved” by the teachings of Jesus, admitting that he would have joined the crowd following Jesus around. He also acknowledges that he would have parted company with Jesus, not because of Jesus' teachings but because he made demands that only God can make.
Several times Matthew says that Jesus taught as one who had authority. He unsettled and provoked people with statements like, “I and the Father are one”; “I have the power to forgive sins”; “I will rebuild the temple in three days.” Temple guards came to seize him but returned without him, saying “No one ever spoke the way this man does.” He commanded demons to be quiet. He befriended lepers and tax collectors and prostitutes. He forgave those who crucified him.
He asks us to do things that are simply impossible--apart from God's grace and indwelling Spirit. Who was this teacher? Jesus asked Simon Peter, “Whom do you say I am?”
He asks us the same question today. Does our intellectual belief match our "heart" belief, our actions, and our words?
Jesus had a way of stirring things up.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
A Hiding Place
The video I'm sharing today is a song I love, but it is a little over 8 minutes long. You can plan that way. :-)
Psalm 32 (NRSV)
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long.
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Psalm 32 (NRSV)
Happy are those whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Happy are those to whom the Lord imputes no iniquity, and in whose spirit there is no deceit.
While I kept silence, my body wasted away through my groaning all day long.
For day and night your hand was heavy upon me; my strength was dried up as by the heat of summer. Selah
Then I acknowledged my sin to you, and I did not hide my iniquity; I said, “I will confess my transgressions to the Lord,” and you forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah
Therefore let all who are faithful offer prayer to you; at a time of distress, the rush of mighty waters shall not reach them.
You are a hiding place for me; you preserve me from trouble; you surround me with glad cries of deliverance. Selah
I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.
Do not be like a horse or a mule, without understanding, whose temper must be curbed with bit and bridle, else it will not stay near you.
Many are the torments of the wicked, but steadfast love surrounds those who trust in the Lord.
Be glad in the Lord and rejoice, O righteous, and shout for joy, all you upright in heart.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Our Lifesongs--All for the Glory of God
Soli Deo gloria, Latin for "Glory to God" alone, is one of the five doctrines emphasized during the Protestant Reformation. (You can go here to read more about them.)
The Reformers believed that whether you were in the pulpit, orchard, or kitchen all that we do when done by faith would bring glory to God. As the Westminster Shorter Catechism asks, "What is the chief end of man? Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever."
For the follower of Christ, all of life is to be lived with an awareness, appreciation and intention to bring honor to God by living under the lordship of the Son.
Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God; Whoever speaks, let him speak, as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, let him do so as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. To Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen. (1CO 10:31; 1PE 4:11; REV 1:6; 2PE 3:1; EPH 3:21; REV 7:12; ROM 11:36)
Here is a meditation with music from Casting Crowns.
The Reformers believed that whether you were in the pulpit, orchard, or kitchen all that we do when done by faith would bring glory to God. As the Westminster Shorter Catechism asks, "What is the chief end of man? Man's chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever."
For the follower of Christ, all of life is to be lived with an awareness, appreciation and intention to bring honor to God by living under the lordship of the Son.
Whether, then, you eat or drink or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God; Whoever speaks, let him speak, as it were, the utterances of God; whoever serves, let him do so as by the strength which God supplies; so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever. He has made us to be a kingdom, priests to His God and Father; to Him be the glory and the dominion forever and ever. Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. To Him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus to all generations forever and ever. Blessing and glory and wisdom and thanksgiving and honor and power and might, be to our God forever and ever. For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever. Amen. (1CO 10:31; 1PE 4:11; REV 1:6; 2PE 3:1; EPH 3:21; REV 7:12; ROM 11:36)
Here is a meditation with music from Casting Crowns.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Desperation Prayer
"In no way is it enough to set out cheerfully with God on any venture of faith. You must also be willing to take your ideas of what the journey will be like and tear them into tiny pieces, for nothing on the itinerary will happen as you expect." Lettie B. Cowman, Streams in the Desert
Psalm 91: 1-2 and 10-15
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty,
will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust."
no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent.
For he will give his angels charge of you to guard you in all your ways.
On their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.
Because he cleaves to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.
When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will rescue him and honor him.
For the remainder of my life, Psalm 91 will take me back to a time when I was a pastor's wife in a church situation that was beginning to sour, with two children, Christmas coming, and a husband in the hospital with blood clots in his leg.
He still suffers from the aftermath, but at the time he was in a critically vulnerable place. I did not realize just how precarious it all was at the time, which is just as well. One night, coming home from a hospital visit, I could not sleep. I had a sense of impending disaster, and I was deeply afraid. I felt lost, alone, abandoned...so afraid that my inner being felt cold and dark...a sensation I have never felt since.
The children were asleep upstairs, and I was downstairs sitting in bed, Bible open. I was trying to pray and I was too frightened to be articulate. I offered myself and my fear to God, and I spent the rest of that night reading Psalm 91. I read it dozens of times, each time with a sort of desperation..."no evil shall come near..." but it seemed the evil had, indeed, come very close indeed.
About five a.m. I came to a place of surrender. It was not an easy nor comfortable place to be. I wish I could say that it was, and that I was at peace and full of faith. I wasn't, and It wasn't any of those things. It was simply surrender.
I spoke aloud to God, something like, "I did not expect this. I expected blessings. I mean, are we not doing what you called us to do? I do not want to raise these children alone. I don't know what I'll do if Ken dies. And I'm angry that this is happening. He deserves better than to spend Christmas in the hospital. We deserve better than an indifferent bunch of church people and a a deacon board who is probably feeling righteous and vindicated about it all. I need my husband, God....but may your will be done."
I cried as I said again, "May your will be done. I can't read anymore and I can't pray."
And I fell asleep. Was God waiting for my surrender? I don't know. But I do know that I fell asleep. Ken came home a couple of days later.
Perhaps you, like I was, are desperately clinging to what you think God should do?
God of the Secret Place, I pray for myself today, and my own struggle with heart-felt obedience. And I pray for those who may read this and realize they are struggling with the surrender you ask of them. I ask for peace, and especially for grace to relinquish all of the "shoulds" and "why nots" and "but, what about"s. Thank you for understanding our weakness and loving us still, for calling to us, for waiting for us to offer our expectations on an altar of surrender. Thank you for the strength that Christ has provided for us, the strength to tear our itinerary into tiny pieces. Amen
Psalm 91: 1-2 and 10-15
He who dwells in the shelter of the Most High, who abides in the shadow of the Almighty,
will say to the LORD, "My refuge and my fortress; my God, in whom I trust."
no evil shall befall you, no scourge come near your tent.
For he will give his angels charge of you to guard you in all your ways.
On their hands they will bear you up, lest you dash your foot against a stone.
You will tread on the lion and the adder, the young lion and the serpent you will trample under foot.
Because he cleaves to me in love, I will deliver him; I will protect him, because he knows my name.
When he calls to me, I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will rescue him and honor him.
For the remainder of my life, Psalm 91 will take me back to a time when I was a pastor's wife in a church situation that was beginning to sour, with two children, Christmas coming, and a husband in the hospital with blood clots in his leg.
He still suffers from the aftermath, but at the time he was in a critically vulnerable place. I did not realize just how precarious it all was at the time, which is just as well. One night, coming home from a hospital visit, I could not sleep. I had a sense of impending disaster, and I was deeply afraid. I felt lost, alone, abandoned...so afraid that my inner being felt cold and dark...a sensation I have never felt since.
The children were asleep upstairs, and I was downstairs sitting in bed, Bible open. I was trying to pray and I was too frightened to be articulate. I offered myself and my fear to God, and I spent the rest of that night reading Psalm 91. I read it dozens of times, each time with a sort of desperation..."no evil shall come near..." but it seemed the evil had, indeed, come very close indeed.
About five a.m. I came to a place of surrender. It was not an easy nor comfortable place to be. I wish I could say that it was, and that I was at peace and full of faith. I wasn't, and It wasn't any of those things. It was simply surrender.
I spoke aloud to God, something like, "I did not expect this. I expected blessings. I mean, are we not doing what you called us to do? I do not want to raise these children alone. I don't know what I'll do if Ken dies. And I'm angry that this is happening. He deserves better than to spend Christmas in the hospital. We deserve better than an indifferent bunch of church people and a a deacon board who is probably feeling righteous and vindicated about it all. I need my husband, God....but may your will be done."
I cried as I said again, "May your will be done. I can't read anymore and I can't pray."
And I fell asleep. Was God waiting for my surrender? I don't know. But I do know that I fell asleep. Ken came home a couple of days later.
Perhaps you, like I was, are desperately clinging to what you think God should do?
God of the Secret Place, I pray for myself today, and my own struggle with heart-felt obedience. And I pray for those who may read this and realize they are struggling with the surrender you ask of them. I ask for peace, and especially for grace to relinquish all of the "shoulds" and "why nots" and "but, what about"s. Thank you for understanding our weakness and loving us still, for calling to us, for waiting for us to offer our expectations on an altar of surrender. Thank you for the strength that Christ has provided for us, the strength to tear our itinerary into tiny pieces. Amen
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