Paul is a prisoner without a crime. After a couple years, the Jews accusing Paul seem to have lost direction and have now become an unorganized mob of haters. The Roman officials are seeing right through this but since Paul is causing such a commotion, he has become a celebrity. I'm not sure how Felix, Festus and Agrippa compare to Pilate in terms of status, but it seems pretty clear that Paul's "case" is getting the big guns to show up and get in the press. Yet, throughout this, Paul remains upbeat and downright "cheerful" (24:10).
The theme of today's children's sermon was that we should all be "imitations" of Jesus. As close as we can get to the original, but knowing that we can never be exact. (Kind of like Luther's "little Christs" concept). I was trying to think of a modern day person who is an "imitation" of Paul and the only person I could think of was Nelson Mandela. Someone who preached their beliefs (without having committed a crime), wound up in prison, but instead of plotting revenge, instead used the time to make himself a stronger person. How strong one's foundation must be in order to be constantly beguiled of strength and hope and yet have faith and purpose.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
[Fill in the blank] is King!
I am so honored to have my installation on Palm Sunday. Between then and Good Friday every year, we need to decide how to fill in the blank. Paul claims to have done nothing wrong against Caesar and even appeals to him for a fair trial, but just the fact that he is associated with "the Way" means that he cannot fill in the blank in a way that would be acceptable to Caesar. I grew up at a church called Christ the King, remind me of how to fill in the blank.
If you read one book this year (other than the Bible), pick up Rob Bell's Velvet Elvis. In it, he is clear that we can either proclaim, "Jesus is Lord!" or "Caesar is Lord," as Caesar was claiming to be the Son of God.
Luther makes it obvious that while we need to follow civil authority, we cannot do so in such a way that causes us to stray from our faith. In some instances, we need to make a choice. Most of us at least tithe to the government in the form of taxes, since we cannot refuse to or we would be imprisoned. God gives us the choice to serve him with our entire lives...or not.
How will you fill in the blank today? What about tomorrow and for the rest of your life?
If you read one book this year (other than the Bible), pick up Rob Bell's Velvet Elvis. In it, he is clear that we can either proclaim, "Jesus is Lord!" or "Caesar is Lord," as Caesar was claiming to be the Son of God.
Luther makes it obvious that while we need to follow civil authority, we cannot do so in such a way that causes us to stray from our faith. In some instances, we need to make a choice. Most of us at least tithe to the government in the form of taxes, since we cannot refuse to or we would be imprisoned. God gives us the choice to serve him with our entire lives...or not.
How will you fill in the blank today? What about tomorrow and for the rest of your life?
Saturday, February 27, 2010
The Message
Paul speaks in the language of the people, so their ears perk up. For the past decade, I have been reading a translation of the Bible called The Message (I actually stared reading it while it was being translated). Whenever I quote Scriptures here, I'm using that translation. We will be giving this Bible to our four Confirmation students on May 23rd (someone wanted to honor their mother who just passed away and made that donation).
As a gift from the church, we will be giving a Read With Me Bible to the families who celebrate a baptism. We also budget for 3rd grade Spark Bibles. Is there some among you who would like to help provide Spark Story Book Bibles to our 3 year olds in September? Reading the Bible together as a family is so important.
I'm sure as a good Jew, Paul knew his Bible well. That's probably why he found himself so passionately on both sides of "the Way". He believed he was on God's side the whole time. He uses who he is and how God made him to serve the Lord. I get the impression that he was rarely went in peace though.
How can we use our experience of worship and daily devotion to strengthen our resolve to serve God with our lives? None of us will have the intense life of faith that was pressing in on Paul from all sides, but that doesn't mean we can't be just as passionate and strong in the faith as he was.
I had the opportunity while getting an oil change the other day to connect with Tyrone and Chris. Paul spoke with Felix and Drusilla. Let's shine our light in this community and get people talking about what God is doing in and through the church on the rock!
Kelly, in 4 days we wrap Acts up. I'd like to announce tomorrow and again on Wednesday which book we're reading next. Please check in with the 7th-9th graders and let me know.
Reading the Bible regularly and praying for guidance are going to be the things that push us forward into the future God has in mind for us...
As a gift from the church, we will be giving a Read With Me Bible to the families who celebrate a baptism. We also budget for 3rd grade Spark Bibles. Is there some among you who would like to help provide Spark Story Book Bibles to our 3 year olds in September? Reading the Bible together as a family is so important.
I'm sure as a good Jew, Paul knew his Bible well. That's probably why he found himself so passionately on both sides of "the Way". He believed he was on God's side the whole time. He uses who he is and how God made him to serve the Lord. I get the impression that he was rarely went in peace though.
How can we use our experience of worship and daily devotion to strengthen our resolve to serve God with our lives? None of us will have the intense life of faith that was pressing in on Paul from all sides, but that doesn't mean we can't be just as passionate and strong in the faith as he was.
I had the opportunity while getting an oil change the other day to connect with Tyrone and Chris. Paul spoke with Felix and Drusilla. Let's shine our light in this community and get people talking about what God is doing in and through the church on the rock!
Kelly, in 4 days we wrap Acts up. I'd like to announce tomorrow and again on Wednesday which book we're reading next. Please check in with the 7th-9th graders and let me know.
Reading the Bible regularly and praying for guidance are going to be the things that push us forward into the future God has in mind for us...
Kelly - Acts 24
Nothing new under the sun....stories of the powerful people using their power. Although no physical harm was done to Paul, he was denied his liberty. And though the church undoubtedly knew where he was (he sent a couple letters to make that clear) - very little is done on his behalf. Given all the needs of the community, I'm not surpised that the churches Paul founded don't send money to Felix to secure Paul's release. But it is a bit surprising that through all of this, we have heard nothing of the church in Jerusalem. What happened to those brave disciples who had seemed to finally get their act together earlier in this story? They don't even speak up for Paul in all this time before the Jewish leaders that they must interact with regularly.
What this story brings to mind is the general truth that life can be out of control - but we can make choices within our circumstances. (Or, the more common platitude, you can't change others, you can only change your own responses to situations.) Paul has very little choice in this passage - and seems to almost lose his voice entirely. But he begins to write his letters, and he speaks regularly with Felix - he does what he can in the situation he finds himself.
What this story brings to mind is the general truth that life can be out of control - but we can make choices within our circumstances. (Or, the more common platitude, you can't change others, you can only change your own responses to situations.) Paul has very little choice in this passage - and seems to almost lose his voice entirely. But he begins to write his letters, and he speaks regularly with Felix - he does what he can in the situation he finds himself.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Jordan - Acts 23
Good ol' Paul. Kelly hit the nail right on the head. The last couple chapters have shown that not only is Paul a good preacher, but a good tactician. I've always joked with Erin that "it's all about the confidence." It doesn't matter who you are and what situation you are in, if you feel confident, you are pretty likely to succeed. Paul has God speaking to him and the Holy Spirit working through him and if that doesn't give you confidence, nothing will.
Kelly - Acts 23
While I'm sure that I have read this story before - most likely on more than one occasion - I have no memory of it at all. What a fun story of political intrigue and scheming! Paul is wise as a serpent - as are the other players in the scene.
It speaks to me of using all that you are - bizarre and diverse as that may be - for God's purposes. Paul was a Pharisee, a Jew, a Christian, a Roman citizen, and the uncle of a smart boy - and used all of that in various ways to end up safely communicating the gospel and headed to Rome. I am a mother with an M.Div. and an M.A.S. in aviation studies - I have lived in 3 very different regions of the country, enjoy fitness kickboxing, and have sung the national anthem at a professional (though minor league) baseball game. All of this diparity makes me happy - and makes Marcus roll his eyes from time to time. I'm not sure I have it all integrated yet to one purpose -but I'm not sure Paul did, either. He used what he had when he needed it. We are not designed to be so one-dimensional - but we are designed to develop what we are on all fronts. I pray I have the wherewithal to keep one common purpose to be supported by multiple interests.
It speaks to me of using all that you are - bizarre and diverse as that may be - for God's purposes. Paul was a Pharisee, a Jew, a Christian, a Roman citizen, and the uncle of a smart boy - and used all of that in various ways to end up safely communicating the gospel and headed to Rome. I am a mother with an M.Div. and an M.A.S. in aviation studies - I have lived in 3 very different regions of the country, enjoy fitness kickboxing, and have sung the national anthem at a professional (though minor league) baseball game. All of this diparity makes me happy - and makes Marcus roll his eyes from time to time. I'm not sure I have it all integrated yet to one purpose -but I'm not sure Paul did, either. He used what he had when he needed it. We are not designed to be so one-dimensional - but we are designed to develop what we are on all fronts. I pray I have the wherewithal to keep one common purpose to be supported by multiple interests.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Kelly - Acts 22
Go Paul!!! I must admit that I've always had a hard time dealing with Paul....and reading Acts this month seems to have helped a lot. I find he can be quite sanctimonious and there are parts of his letters that rub against the grain. He is a man of his time - and I am a woman of mine. And the Holy Spirit is active and always teaching us new stuff as we learn to bear witness to God in an ever-changing world.
But today he stood up for himself to the crowd, he confonted the man who was about to flog him...in general he's proven he's got a spine. I like this sort of attitude. I suppose it would take that much spirit to carry the word of Christ into some of the hostile territory he's been in. And I suppose his experience in that hostile territory has given him some of the strength he exhibits in Jerusalem.
An interesting aside - I notice that my NRSV begins by saying that Paul addressed the crowd in Hebrew. The NIV says that he addressed the crowd in Aramaic.
But today he stood up for himself to the crowd, he confonted the man who was about to flog him...in general he's proven he's got a spine. I like this sort of attitude. I suppose it would take that much spirit to carry the word of Christ into some of the hostile territory he's been in. And I suppose his experience in that hostile territory has given him some of the strength he exhibits in Jerusalem.
An interesting aside - I notice that my NRSV begins by saying that Paul addressed the crowd in Hebrew. The NIV says that he addressed the crowd in Aramaic.
All are welcome
Please take a moment and go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tlmauwfxK7c. It's one of my favorite songs by my college buddy, Dave. His one man group goes by the name Agape (God's unconditional love for us). He and some of the young minority kids in North Minneapolis who have been orphaned have rapped at the national youth gathering for the ELCA. All are welcome is God's theme in the Bible. We as the church need to reflect how God feels about his creation. Too often we do not.
As far as human sexuality goes, I will tip my hand. Heidi and I came to New England, because we were told by the synod that EVERY church is reconciled in Christ, meaning that we openly welcome gays and lesbians. The sign on the street level of Faith's parking lot says, "All Welcome." Either this is true or we are misrepresenting ourselves and the Father who sent Jesus in love so that all would hear and receive the good news.
Paul is handpicked by God to reach out to the Gentile outsiders. He testifies to this and the insiders go nuts! God is trying to make a point through Paul. Many of the early Christians were Jews (i.e. Jesus and the disciples). I am not. I thank God every day for Paul's boldness and how he risked (and gave) his life, so that I could be welcomed in.
I have a favor to ask. We have more LYFE Groupies who want to go to the youth gathering at Calumet next weekend (Fri, Mar 5th, 4 pm-Sun, Mar 7th, 2 pm) than we can get there with the adult chaperones who have signed up. We don't want to turn anyone away. Please let Sue Grassey know if you can go.
All are welcome.
As far as human sexuality goes, I will tip my hand. Heidi and I came to New England, because we were told by the synod that EVERY church is reconciled in Christ, meaning that we openly welcome gays and lesbians. The sign on the street level of Faith's parking lot says, "All Welcome." Either this is true or we are misrepresenting ourselves and the Father who sent Jesus in love so that all would hear and receive the good news.
Paul is handpicked by God to reach out to the Gentile outsiders. He testifies to this and the insiders go nuts! God is trying to make a point through Paul. Many of the early Christians were Jews (i.e. Jesus and the disciples). I am not. I thank God every day for Paul's boldness and how he risked (and gave) his life, so that I could be welcomed in.
I have a favor to ask. We have more LYFE Groupies who want to go to the youth gathering at Calumet next weekend (Fri, Mar 5th, 4 pm-Sun, Mar 7th, 2 pm) than we can get there with the adult chaperones who have signed up. We don't want to turn anyone away. Please let Sue Grassey know if you can go.
All are welcome.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Jordan - Acts 21
I was a little disappointed when Paul "purified" himself after coming back from working with the Gentiles. While I know that Paul had the best intentions and that there was some hope of being accepted back in Jerusalem I can't help but notice that there is still ongoing view of Gentiles be inferior. On the other hand, one of the more effective ways of changing the opinions of people (i.e. the Jews) is to work from within and Paul and disciples likely know that the more accepted the are in the Jewish community, the more effective their ministry can be. Its frustrating though to always be reminded that throughout the history of the church, there is the "in crowd" and those on the periphery.
Luke provides some imagery in this vain (perhaps not intentionally) in verses 27-30. Paul is accused of bringing a Greek into the temple. "The seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut." The church has shut its doors on many different people over time for all sorts of reasons and its during those times when our human imperfections are most glaring. How does Faith keep its doors open? How do we make sure that our "family" isn't seen as a closed circle but one that is loving and welcoming? If someone were to ask, what is Faith's feeling on the ELCA's social statement on human sexuality?
Luke provides some imagery in this vain (perhaps not intentionally) in verses 27-30. Paul is accused of bringing a Greek into the temple. "The seized Paul and dragged him out of the temple, and immediately the doors were shut." The church has shut its doors on many different people over time for all sorts of reasons and its during those times when our human imperfections are most glaring. How does Faith keep its doors open? How do we make sure that our "family" isn't seen as a closed circle but one that is loving and welcoming? If someone were to ask, what is Faith's feeling on the ELCA's social statement on human sexuality?
Kelly - Acts 21
I was struck today by the words of prophecy. Some of the prophets in Caesarea warned Paul of the coming persecution he would face in Jerusalem. And he decided to go anyway.
I find this an interesting contrast to the works of Jesus. He knew he was headed to persecution in Jerusalem, and also went anyway...but the people around him had no understanding. Jesus' persecution and crucifixion had a point and a purpose. Paul's heading directly into persecution doesn't make much sense to me. He doesn't need to spread the word in Jerusalem - Peter and the church are already there. I don't really understand why he feels the need to continue this path.
But I'm heartened by the end of the chapter and eager to read tomorrow's words. Paul stands up and asks to defend himself. Jesus kept repeating the ambiguous "You say that I am" and Stephen also seems to have taken the abuse lying down. Paul steps up and speaks out on his own behalf - - I hope he lives up to the image he's established in my mind of his gumption.
I find this an interesting contrast to the works of Jesus. He knew he was headed to persecution in Jerusalem, and also went anyway...but the people around him had no understanding. Jesus' persecution and crucifixion had a point and a purpose. Paul's heading directly into persecution doesn't make much sense to me. He doesn't need to spread the word in Jerusalem - Peter and the church are already there. I don't really understand why he feels the need to continue this path.
But I'm heartened by the end of the chapter and eager to read tomorrow's words. Paul stands up and asks to defend himself. Jesus kept repeating the ambiguous "You say that I am" and Stephen also seems to have taken the abuse lying down. Paul steps up and speaks out on his own behalf - - I hope he lives up to the image he's established in my mind of his gumption.
Sunday
Wow! Was soup, song, story, and sacrament great tonight or what?!? How blessed are we that we get to worship twice a week for the five weeks of Lent?
Here's a preview of next week's story (the little kids will probably be reading the book Adeline, since Adeline's Porcupine was a hit):
Why do we do the things we do? Why do we go to church or give money away? Because we're supposed to or because we think God needs it? Do we honestly put on our best clothes for an hour once a week, stand and sit at all the right times, and sing all the appropriate songs for God's sake, or because it'll make us look better to the world around us? We're tired of all the empty rituals and routines. And so is God. God hates it when we call ourselves Christians but ignore all the things he really cares about. He hates it when we go through hollow religious routines out of some feeling of duty or obligation. God doesn't want the meaningless rituals. God wants our hearts.
Paul's bold statement that grabbed me today was "The issue is not what they do to me, but what the Master Jesus does through me." May we all proclaim that this Lenten season.
Here's a preview of next week's story (the little kids will probably be reading the book Adeline, since Adeline's Porcupine was a hit):
Why do we do the things we do? Why do we go to church or give money away? Because we're supposed to or because we think God needs it? Do we honestly put on our best clothes for an hour once a week, stand and sit at all the right times, and sing all the appropriate songs for God's sake, or because it'll make us look better to the world around us? We're tired of all the empty rituals and routines. And so is God. God hates it when we call ourselves Christians but ignore all the things he really cares about. He hates it when we go through hollow religious routines out of some feeling of duty or obligation. God doesn't want the meaningless rituals. God wants our hearts.
Paul's bold statement that grabbed me today was "The issue is not what they do to me, but what the Master Jesus does through me." May we all proclaim that this Lenten season.
Paul is amazing!
We are now 22 books into Acts and I can't help but think how amazing Paul was. I compare him to Jesus in his determination and Faith. He is truly and completly selfless and faithful to his mission, which is spreading God's word and creating a church of believers. Nothing is stopping him because he is filled with the Holy Spirit and is doing God's work.
As I am reading, I keep thinking about our church and the changes that we are facing. Many who know me, know that I am not great with change. I like things to stay the same for the most part and really don't like surprises! Well, that has to CHANGE! There are many changes going on right now, many of which are surprises! I am finding that I have to be flexible and open minded. Not my most comfortable state of being.
Faith is a word that I have been using a lot lately. Faith that the budget will work itself out, Faith that we will grow our congregation, Faith that we can send our kids to the mission trip and on and on it goes. Putting my faith in God and his work in our church is making me stronger and more convicted that the changes going on are all for the good. FAITH will help me roll with changes!!!!
I am learning a lot from Paul and his faith!
As I am reading, I keep thinking about our church and the changes that we are facing. Many who know me, know that I am not great with change. I like things to stay the same for the most part and really don't like surprises! Well, that has to CHANGE! There are many changes going on right now, many of which are surprises! I am finding that I have to be flexible and open minded. Not my most comfortable state of being.
Faith is a word that I have been using a lot lately. Faith that the budget will work itself out, Faith that we will grow our congregation, Faith that we can send our kids to the mission trip and on and on it goes. Putting my faith in God and his work in our church is making me stronger and more convicted that the changes going on are all for the good. FAITH will help me roll with changes!!!!
I am learning a lot from Paul and his faith!
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Jordan - Acts 20
Paul's farewell talk of his dedication to God leads to a comment in my Lutheran Study Bible on Luther's "theology of the cross." The idea is that we should all be "little Christs" to our friends, our neighbors and people in need. We should do this out of our love for God. Luther's idea was out of response to what he called the "theology of glory" wherein faith and God's favor brings prosperity. Being a little Christ doesn't mean taking on a burden, it means living our lives for the sake of others.
If you didn't know already, the mission statement of the ELCA is "Marked with the cross of Christ forever, we are claimed, gathered, and sent for the sake of the world." This mission statement is something I am truly proud of in the ELCA. The words are both straightforward and profound. Talk about passionate spirituality....
If you didn't know already, the mission statement of the ELCA is "Marked with the cross of Christ forever, we are claimed, gathered, and sent for the sake of the world." This mission statement is something I am truly proud of in the ELCA. The words are both straightforward and profound. Talk about passionate spirituality....
Community of Holy Friends
People often ask me why I love mission trips so much. The same reason I loved taking my lovely wife "out for dinner" tonight two days before her birthday...to Father Bill's place. I love serving alongside of my sisters and brothers in Christ, especially that one God gave me to spend my life with. After we fed 120+ people at this homeless shelter in Quincy, the 8 of us had a pot pie and a salad.
Paul says to those who he's been with for three years, "Now I'm turning you over to God, our marvelous God whose gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need in this community of holy friends."
The Word can...
1. Make you into what God wants you to be.
2. Give you everything you could possibly need: a community of holy friends.
God wants us to be salt and light in the world he created. Church should not be a holy huddle, but like training camp for a team that wins and gives God all the glory for any and every victory. I can feel God winning a victory in me this Lent. I can feel God winning a victory in our community through my new community of holy friends.
Let me share a Facebook post from one of my "old" holy friends. Roddy is the most selfless man next to Jesus that I know (with the possible exception of my best friend, Alex). Rodrick and I have missioned together with TeenServe (www.teenserve.org) every summer for almost a decade. It seems like know him forever. Here's what he posted, "My 5 senses went on over load as I walked down the toxic dirt roads that run through the slums of North Eastern Nairobi. Tears filled my eyes as our little team handed out Beanie Baby's to street kids and prayed for a lady named Perpetual who has TB. My heart cry's out for mercy. Oh that justice would soon visit this city! Pray for those who live in the slums throughout the world."
It didn't surprise me at all the Roddy was there. He's a modern day Mother Teresa. Since she just came to mind, I'll close tonight with one of her quotes I recently heard, "I have found the paradox that if I love until it hurts, then there is no hurt, but only more love". Please pray for Roddy and the people who will come to know God's love through him.
Paul says to those who he's been with for three years, "Now I'm turning you over to God, our marvelous God whose gracious Word can make you into what he wants you to be and give you everything you could possibly need in this community of holy friends."
The Word can...
1. Make you into what God wants you to be.
2. Give you everything you could possibly need: a community of holy friends.
God wants us to be salt and light in the world he created. Church should not be a holy huddle, but like training camp for a team that wins and gives God all the glory for any and every victory. I can feel God winning a victory in me this Lent. I can feel God winning a victory in our community through my new community of holy friends.
Let me share a Facebook post from one of my "old" holy friends. Roddy is the most selfless man next to Jesus that I know (with the possible exception of my best friend, Alex). Rodrick and I have missioned together with TeenServe (www.teenserve.org) every summer for almost a decade. It seems like know him forever. Here's what he posted, "My 5 senses went on over load as I walked down the toxic dirt roads that run through the slums of North Eastern Nairobi. Tears filled my eyes as our little team handed out Beanie Baby's to street kids and prayed for a lady named Perpetual who has TB. My heart cry's out for mercy. Oh that justice would soon visit this city! Pray for those who live in the slums throughout the world."
It didn't surprise me at all the Roddy was there. He's a modern day Mother Teresa. Since she just came to mind, I'll close tonight with one of her quotes I recently heard, "I have found the paradox that if I love until it hurts, then there is no hurt, but only more love". Please pray for Roddy and the people who will come to know God's love through him.
Friendly Competition
Did anyone see the Canadians and Americans who ice danced their hearts out last night, getting the gold and silver by a mile? Although countries apart, they are training partners. That's why our committees are called teams:
Together
Everyone
Achieves
More
Last night at the 3rd Welcome Coffee we talked about "more horses pulling the wagon". What if everyone at Faith determined their giftedness and actually used their time and talents to serve the church and the world? What if everyone at Faith made the commitment to grow toward a tithe? What if we all became more passionately spiritual together?
Together
Everyone
Achieves
More
Last night at the 3rd Welcome Coffee we talked about "more horses pulling the wagon". What if everyone at Faith determined their giftedness and actually used their time and talents to serve the church and the world? What if everyone at Faith made the commitment to grow toward a tithe? What if we all became more passionately spiritual together?
Kelly - Acts 20
Back into first person narrative, I see.
Paul's farewell speech is a bit difficult to read. On the one hand he seems a little arrogant about all that he's done. On the other, it's justifiable - he has actually done all of that.
It's hard to leave a faith community behind, for any reason. I've been a part of 8 different churches in my life - 4 of them as some sort of staff, and all of them with some role. It is hard to leave behind so many relationships that have been crucial to my daily life. And my personal arrogance has at times made it hard to wonder what's going to happen to the church after I leave.
For people such as my parents and many people at Faith, I imagine that the act of having to leave the community would be even more gut-wrenching. My parents were part of the same church for over 30 years and recently moved across the country, and many people at Faith have been here for much much longer.
Paul's farewell speech is a bit difficult to read. On the one hand he seems a little arrogant about all that he's done. On the other, it's justifiable - he has actually done all of that.
It's hard to leave a faith community behind, for any reason. I've been a part of 8 different churches in my life - 4 of them as some sort of staff, and all of them with some role. It is hard to leave behind so many relationships that have been crucial to my daily life. And my personal arrogance has at times made it hard to wonder what's going to happen to the church after I leave.
For people such as my parents and many people at Faith, I imagine that the act of having to leave the community would be even more gut-wrenching. My parents were part of the same church for over 30 years and recently moved across the country, and many people at Faith have been here for much much longer.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Jordan - Acts 19
So, in chapter 19 the Spirit allows Paul to enter Asia. Was it just not the right time in chapter 16? That makes a little more sense I guess. There have been a couple times in my life where I have had the opportunity to do something, but have felt a distinct call not to. There have been other times where I have chosen not to do something, and have felt a pang of guilt. These opportunities weren't significant, especially at the time, but I wonder if those small decisions had a greater affect than I will ever know. God works in mysterious ways...
Kelly - Acts 19
Oh, the arguments we get into when our faith starts to impact the economic reality of our world! This is one of the times when the near-riot of "the people" calling for the blood of the members of the early church makes the most sense to me. While before some beliefs were threatened - in our multi-cultural world we have become better at living alongside those with different beliefs (not that we are really good at this - our socio-political discourse can still be pretty intolerant). In this story it is economic well-being that is threatened - and the riots that come out of that seem more applicable to today's society.
I was part of a church in my early 20s where members of the congregation wanted to start discussing homosexuality and the church's stance. There was an alterior motive and putting one or two people on the spot was their aim. The pastor suggested that such a discussion could happen - but since the Bible talks much more about the use of wealth than it does of sexuality, we should first have an honest discussion about how we use our wealth. Everyone interested in these 2 discussions should show up on Wednesday with his/her checkbook register in hand and be prepared for open and honest discussion. No one showed.
Faith becomes real when it starts to touch on our economic choices. It becomes more daily, more pedestrian, more concrete - and more substantial.
I was part of a church in my early 20s where members of the congregation wanted to start discussing homosexuality and the church's stance. There was an alterior motive and putting one or two people on the spot was their aim. The pastor suggested that such a discussion could happen - but since the Bible talks much more about the use of wealth than it does of sexuality, we should first have an honest discussion about how we use our wealth. Everyone interested in these 2 discussions should show up on Wednesday with his/her checkbook register in hand and be prepared for open and honest discussion. No one showed.
Faith becomes real when it starts to touch on our economic choices. It becomes more daily, more pedestrian, more concrete - and more substantial.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Baptisms
I love doing baptisms. I have now done as many in 5 weeks as I did in the prior 3 1/2 years. What I like about baptisms is that everyone in the congregation has a role and responsibility to model faith and speak it into the life of the newly baptized. Isabella, James, and Christopher all have incredible Godparents and grandparents, but they also have all of us. I pray that the church is PACKED on Wednesday from 6:30-8 pm for Soup, Song, Story, and Sacrament. During "story time," we're going to take the little kids up to the nursery and read to them. The teens and adults will watch the Nooma DVD called Lump.
Here's Rob Bell's description of it: A lot of us have done things in our lives that we're ashamed of. Some are small things, and some of us have really big and devastating things. Some of us even have things that people close to us don't know about. Personal junk that we keep to ourselves so we don't have to deal with it. Because we don't know how to deal with it, do we? We're afraid that if we try it's just going to make everything worse. But no matter how big our junk is, no matter how much what we've done has impacted the way other people feel about us or how we feel about ourselves, it hasn't changed how God feels about us. God loves us, he always has and always will, and there's nothing we can do to change that.
While I'd love to hear what Apollos had to say, I'm more interested in hearing your story and how dealing with sin affects your faith on a daily basis. Come join the conversation...
Here's Rob Bell's description of it: A lot of us have done things in our lives that we're ashamed of. Some are small things, and some of us have really big and devastating things. Some of us even have things that people close to us don't know about. Personal junk that we keep to ourselves so we don't have to deal with it. Because we don't know how to deal with it, do we? We're afraid that if we try it's just going to make everything worse. But no matter how big our junk is, no matter how much what we've done has impacted the way other people feel about us or how we feel about ourselves, it hasn't changed how God feels about us. God loves us, he always has and always will, and there's nothing we can do to change that.
While I'd love to hear what Apollos had to say, I'm more interested in hearing your story and how dealing with sin affects your faith on a daily basis. Come join the conversation...
Kelly - Acts 18
Acts seems to read to me like a bit of a history book - the sequence and facts that are the basis for so many of the letters to follow. Paul in Corith - leading to his letters to the Corinthians later. Paul in Ephesus - leading to later letters to the Ephesians. An introduction to Apollos who evidently converted many and led to the first "denomination" type battles in the early church ("some say they are followers of Apollos, some of Paul, but there is one baptism, one Lord, one faith" - 1 Corinthians 3)
Makes we wonder about the canon. What would the history of the church have been if we had writings of Apollos in the Bible? He was decidedly orthodox according to Paul, so I don't see that these would have been left out intentionally. More likely Apollos just didn't leave written arguments behind - didn't send the letters or spend much time in prison to write - or perhaps was not able to write. He was "eloquent" and "well-versed in scripture" which seems to imply to me that he was literate - but not necessarily so.
It has always troubled me some that the writings of Paul form so much a basis for our church history. (I see this more in the Lutheran church than the Methodist - where Paul leads to Augustine leads to Luther pretty directly in theology.) Paul was one of the greatest church leaders - but only one of them. The writings of Peter are few, and of James and John and Mark....Paul's letters make up over half of what we know about the early church and its beliefs. While this has some merit for our lives today, since Paul was the one most involved in taking the truth of Christ into different cultures and competing religious viewpoints (the Roman world, not just the Jewish world) - what have we lost by losing the voices of the other evangelists? What would Apollos have to say?
Makes we wonder about the canon. What would the history of the church have been if we had writings of Apollos in the Bible? He was decidedly orthodox according to Paul, so I don't see that these would have been left out intentionally. More likely Apollos just didn't leave written arguments behind - didn't send the letters or spend much time in prison to write - or perhaps was not able to write. He was "eloquent" and "well-versed in scripture" which seems to imply to me that he was literate - but not necessarily so.
It has always troubled me some that the writings of Paul form so much a basis for our church history. (I see this more in the Lutheran church than the Methodist - where Paul leads to Augustine leads to Luther pretty directly in theology.) Paul was one of the greatest church leaders - but only one of them. The writings of Peter are few, and of James and John and Mark....Paul's letters make up over half of what we know about the early church and its beliefs. While this has some merit for our lives today, since Paul was the one most involved in taking the truth of Christ into different cultures and competing religious viewpoints (the Roman world, not just the Jewish world) - what have we lost by losing the voices of the other evangelists? What would Apollos have to say?
Saturday, February 20, 2010
As for me and my house...
We will serve the Lord. Four times in yesterday's reading, we hear "...and everyone in their household..." Our daughter's middle name is Lydia. This dealer in purple cloth (read super rich...not a Vikes fan) got baptized and so did everyone in her family. The same thing happened with the jailer. He and his family were all baptized, put their trust in God, and lived as they were really meant to live.
How are we really meant to live? Sue and Paul Grassey took a troubled boy into their home and now they have another son and a grandson. Christopher will be getting baptized tomorrow, but the Holy Spirit is moving in that entire family. Chris' dad will be sharing his faith story for our Confirmation kids in May. Between now and then, he'll probably get baptized and join our church with his girlfriend. He is passing on the faith to his son, because Sue and Paul passed it on to him.
Faith is a family. How can we draw more people into this family, so that it doesn't become a closed circle, a holy huddle? Jesus and his disciples were always reaching out. Throughout Acts, the church is constantly growing. Faith has that same opportunity. As your pastor, I will challenge you to give and serve...and it will make you uncomfortable. Discipleship has never been comfortable.
I hope we PACK Bruce and Cheryl's on the first Saturday in March (I'll be with 18 others at the youth gathering at Calumet). We're looking to form two small groups: one focused on prayer outreach, another to ground us in Lutheranism...the fact that we are saved by grace through faith. There is no better news in the world. Unmerited grace brings me to tears and compels me to sacrifice and serve my guts out. Please join us as we march through Lent, not to debate the issues, but to draw closer to God and his people.
How are we really meant to live? Sue and Paul Grassey took a troubled boy into their home and now they have another son and a grandson. Christopher will be getting baptized tomorrow, but the Holy Spirit is moving in that entire family. Chris' dad will be sharing his faith story for our Confirmation kids in May. Between now and then, he'll probably get baptized and join our church with his girlfriend. He is passing on the faith to his son, because Sue and Paul passed it on to him.
Faith is a family. How can we draw more people into this family, so that it doesn't become a closed circle, a holy huddle? Jesus and his disciples were always reaching out. Throughout Acts, the church is constantly growing. Faith has that same opportunity. As your pastor, I will challenge you to give and serve...and it will make you uncomfortable. Discipleship has never been comfortable.
I hope we PACK Bruce and Cheryl's on the first Saturday in March (I'll be with 18 others at the youth gathering at Calumet). We're looking to form two small groups: one focused on prayer outreach, another to ground us in Lutheranism...the fact that we are saved by grace through faith. There is no better news in the world. Unmerited grace brings me to tears and compels me to sacrifice and serve my guts out. Please join us as we march through Lent, not to debate the issues, but to draw closer to God and his people.
Jordan - Acts 17
While I agree with Kelly that Faith can't be argued, it needs to be lived out, I also sort of envy the philosophical arenas of the Greeks. A lot can happen when people get together and openly debate scripture and religious views with the desire to learn.
One of my best memories of Lutheran Campus Ministry at Northeastern was a retreat held with the Northeast Lutheran Student Movement. We had what was called a quodlibet moderated by Rick Summy of the seminary at Philadelphia. Students offered questions about the Bible, faith and theology to Rick for over an hour. The questions were categorized and after a few hours, Rick presented his thoughts on each of the questions and we all talked about our own feelings on the matter. We were not on a quest for black and white answers, we were on a quest for knowledge and we all came out appreciating the healthy debate.
I don't see that sort of debate happening in the daily life of the church. There are Bible studies and there are blogs, but there aren't public debates (outside of ELCA plenary sessions, which I don't find an arena for learning, more for soap boxing). What would something like that look like? Are people invested in their beliefs enough to debate them?
Kelly - Acts 17
I must admit that Paul is growing on me a little bit here - but it's probably because he's beginning to speak my language. I like the arena of people who sit around and talk about philosophy all day - wondering why and seeking truth.
The problem with this approach - with my most comfortable approach - is highlighted in v. 21..."Now [they] would spend their time in nothing but telling or hearing something new." At the end of Paul's wonderful arguments, some scoffed and some said "we will hear you again about this". Almost as a postscript we learn that a few people became believers.
Discussion and philosophy will only get you so far. Faith is meant to be lived. And it is shared by experience and by others seeing how we live. Faith cannot be argued. Which is a bummer, because I find it much easier to argue faith issues than to live them. It's easier to talk about mercy than to show it, to discuss the ramifications of forgiving each other than to do it. Even on those rare occasions when the necessary scriptures for a situation come to me - they do not have the power that lived examples of faith have.
The problem with this approach - with my most comfortable approach - is highlighted in v. 21..."Now [they] would spend their time in nothing but telling or hearing something new." At the end of Paul's wonderful arguments, some scoffed and some said "we will hear you again about this". Almost as a postscript we learn that a few people became believers.
Discussion and philosophy will only get you so far. Faith is meant to be lived. And it is shared by experience and by others seeing how we live. Faith cannot be argued. Which is a bummer, because I find it much easier to argue faith issues than to live them. It's easier to talk about mercy than to show it, to discuss the ramifications of forgiving each other than to do it. Even on those rare occasions when the necessary scriptures for a situation come to me - they do not have the power that lived examples of faith have.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Jordan - Acts 16
"They went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia" (16:6). Uh, what? The Holy Spirit actually tells people not to spread the gospel to certain places? I don't really get this. This relates to Sue's point about certain Jews having their hearts hardened and eyes closed by the Spirit. Is the Spirit just trying to create conflict or is "the Spirit" just a convenient excuse for failed attempts at evangelism?
That's probably a little harsh, but it seems equally harsh for God to exclude specific groups of people. Perhaps something is lost in translation or Luke is trying to sugar-coat something but to write that the Spirit forbade them is different then saying that the Spirit called them in a different direction.
Its also interesting that right after Paul's vision, Luke starts using the term "we" and "us." The first person language comes quickly and then disappears again. Is Luke a part of the group for a period?
That's probably a little harsh, but it seems equally harsh for God to exclude specific groups of people. Perhaps something is lost in translation or Luke is trying to sugar-coat something but to write that the Spirit forbade them is different then saying that the Spirit called them in a different direction.
Its also interesting that right after Paul's vision, Luke starts using the term "we" and "us." The first person language comes quickly and then disappears again. Is Luke a part of the group for a period?
Acts 16
I am always amazed when I read about the people who saw a miracle, believed what they saw came from God, were baptized and became followers of Jesus. On the other side you have the people, many of whom are Jews, stubbornly refusing the believe what happens in front of their very eyes. Their hearts were closed to the Holy Spirit. And I wonder why? Why did the Holy Spirit evade these people whom Jesus was one of? Why were there so many Jewish people not converted? This is one fact that I have never understood. I think that if I had lived in that time and was eye witness to the miracles performed by the disciples I would have believed. But maybe not?
And speaking of Baptism, my grandson will be baptized into the Faith this Sunday. The Holy Spirit is working overtime at Faith right now! It is very moving to watch your children bring their children to become children of God.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Jordan - Acts 15
"...we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus..." (15:11). My Lutheran Study Bible comments on this verse quoting Martin Luther in his Heidelberg Disputation where Luther states "The law says, »do this« , and it is never done. Grace says, »believe in this«, and everything is already done."
What a great leap this chapter is for the early early church and how crazy it is to think that the church in Luther's time was once again back to leaning on rules and law over the good news of salvation and grace. Rules are meant for order and keeping the peace, they are not meant as a means to life eternal and they are certainly not meant to put up barriers between the people in the church and the people looking in.
What a great leap this chapter is for the early early church and how crazy it is to think that the church in Luther's time was once again back to leaning on rules and law over the good news of salvation and grace. Rules are meant for order and keeping the peace, they are not meant as a means to life eternal and they are certainly not meant to put up barriers between the people in the church and the people looking in.
It seemed to the Holy Spirit and to us...
Last night after church, we had a great discussion at Council about how to treat visitors who come to worship. Do we welcome and love them, but set the bar at a certain height if they are interested in membership (i.e. we don't just let anyone join)? I'm not sure that we would get any new male members, if we required those un-circumcised to be circumcised. Right now, our bar is pretty low. I meet with those who are interested in Faith, hear their story, and have them take the spiritual gifts inventory. They select a Sunday and we do an affirmation of baptism (or a baptism) in worship. We expect members to be more serious about owning the church (sharing time, talents, and treasures) than visitors. Given what Christ expects of us as disciples, I think this is fair. If you joined today, but didn't get plugged into a ministry within 6 months, you're gone. That's the truth statistically.
Understand that someone would be welcome to visit every Sunday for 16 years, but if they'd like to join, it's a step up in commitment. As we are drawn closer to Christ and his body in this place, more of our life becomes about God and his unfolding kingdom. Then we will begin to say things like, "It seemed to the Holy Spirit and to us..."
Understand that someone would be welcome to visit every Sunday for 16 years, but if they'd like to join, it's a step up in commitment. As we are drawn closer to Christ and his body in this place, more of our life becomes about God and his unfolding kingdom. Then we will begin to say things like, "It seemed to the Holy Spirit and to us..."
Kelly - Acts 15
Not so surprising that the gentiles were glad to hear the "encouraging message" that they did not have to be circumcised, huh?
This chapter seems to be pretty full of the minor personality conflicts that fill church life. Believers argued about a matter of doctrine, Paul argued with Barnabas, Peter and the Jerusalem church are rightly persnickety that "some went out without our authorization and disturbed you" (v.24).
The actual matters under discussion have merit, but what is more interesting to me is the relationships behind the discussions. We see an increasingly powerful and organized church base in Jerusalem, arguments over how the church should grow and change in its expanding environment, and basic bickering over who's on good terms with who. Through all of this, which we see played out in every congregation of every denomination in Massachusetts, the faith expands and there are meaningful changes in people's lives.
This chapter seems to be pretty full of the minor personality conflicts that fill church life. Believers argued about a matter of doctrine, Paul argued with Barnabas, Peter and the Jerusalem church are rightly persnickety that "some went out without our authorization and disturbed you" (v.24).
The actual matters under discussion have merit, but what is more interesting to me is the relationships behind the discussions. We see an increasingly powerful and organized church base in Jerusalem, arguments over how the church should grow and change in its expanding environment, and basic bickering over who's on good terms with who. Through all of this, which we see played out in every congregation of every denomination in Massachusetts, the faith expands and there are meaningful changes in people's lives.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Jordan - Acts 14
Zeus and Hermes, how could these guys correct that mistake? I still wonder how the apostles manage to stay in the moment and not get caught up in the crowd like everyone else. And yet, they are right to stay grounded because just as quickly as their fame came, it goes and they are run out of the city. Paul was even stoned close to death.
Today, being Ash Wednesday, how appropriate that we are reminded to stay grounded. Despite our earthly fame and prosperity or even our sorrow and pain, we are only dust. It is God that has given us life and we should give Him the glory. But its a two for one deal, not only can we give God the good things, but we can also turn to God with our sins and afflictions and God will help us out. How awesome is that?
Today, being Ash Wednesday, how appropriate that we are reminded to stay grounded. Despite our earthly fame and prosperity or even our sorrow and pain, we are only dust. It is God that has given us life and we should give Him the glory. But its a two for one deal, not only can we give God the good things, but we can also turn to God with our sins and afflictions and God will help us out. How awesome is that?
Kelly - Acts 14
I particularly like today's scripture because of the mistaken identities of Paul and Barnabas as Zeus and Hermes. The stories of Christ are beginning to leave their homes in the traditions of Israel and encounter the wider world. How do the stories of Christ's salvation get communicated in the society that worships the Roman pantheon?
I hadn't realized before that Paul had failed so miserably at communicating these stories to the Roman citizens as he first began. The story I remember best is the one where Paul goes straight to the altar to the unknown god and begins to explain why that god is "the God of Christ" - the story that we have relied on ever since as we struggle to explain the deep truths of Christ in our pluralistic society. I remember Paul's great oratory and his inventiveness in explaining things to the crowd then....I did not remember this story from chapter 14, where he failed.
It's good to see Paul fail at explaining things. And good to know that he gets it right later on. Paul has a learning curve, too - just like I do. When I was 14 the boy who used to walk me home from school (quaint, huh?) asked me to explain to him why church was so important to me. I shrugged it off and changed the subject, not wanting to "get into it." He never asked again, and the opportunity that had been thrown at my feet was lost forever. I failed. But because of that failure, those who asked later got better answers. I'm not yet to the point where I can make an eloquent and perfectly understandable speech at a moment's notice to those whose viewpoint is vastly different from mine - but like Paul - I'm improving.
I hadn't realized before that Paul had failed so miserably at communicating these stories to the Roman citizens as he first began. The story I remember best is the one where Paul goes straight to the altar to the unknown god and begins to explain why that god is "the God of Christ" - the story that we have relied on ever since as we struggle to explain the deep truths of Christ in our pluralistic society. I remember Paul's great oratory and his inventiveness in explaining things to the crowd then....I did not remember this story from chapter 14, where he failed.
It's good to see Paul fail at explaining things. And good to know that he gets it right later on. Paul has a learning curve, too - just like I do. When I was 14 the boy who used to walk me home from school (quaint, huh?) asked me to explain to him why church was so important to me. I shrugged it off and changed the subject, not wanting to "get into it." He never asked again, and the opportunity that had been thrown at my feet was lost forever. I failed. But because of that failure, those who asked later got better answers. I'm not yet to the point where I can make an eloquent and perfectly understandable speech at a moment's notice to those whose viewpoint is vastly different from mine - but like Paul - I'm improving.
You can see it in their eyes...
"There was a man in Lystra who couldn't walk. He sat there, crippled since the day of his birth. He heard Paul talking, and Paul, looking him in the eye, saw that he was ripe for God's work, ready to believe."
I love looking people in the eye when I'm serving them communion, whether I'm handing them a wafer or an animal cracker. I actually prefer handing out animal crackers to little ones, because then I get to say, "Benjamin, the Lord bless you and keep you in his grace forever."
That's why I love Ash Wednesday. I get to touch everyone's forehead, reminding them not only of their inevitable death, but also of the way they've been claimed, marked, and sealed in baptism.
Please worship with us at 6:30 pm the next 6 Wednesday, as we begin this pilgrimage to the foot of the cross on Holy Week.
I love looking people in the eye when I'm serving them communion, whether I'm handing them a wafer or an animal cracker. I actually prefer handing out animal crackers to little ones, because then I get to say, "Benjamin, the Lord bless you and keep you in his grace forever."
That's why I love Ash Wednesday. I get to touch everyone's forehead, reminding them not only of their inevitable death, but also of the way they've been claimed, marked, and sealed in baptism.
Please worship with us at 6:30 pm the next 6 Wednesday, as we begin this pilgrimage to the foot of the cross on Holy Week.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
The Frozen Chosen
I'm not sure that this addresses predestination, but Rob Bell's DVD Everything is Spiritual helped me out with the concept that God knows what's going to happen in my life before I do. Does that mean I really don't have free will?
Rob contends that God is outside of time and space in such a way that our lives in his hands are like a dry erase marker in Rob's. God can see the totality of my earthy life all at once. I'm in the middle of it, so I'm not very objective. Although he can see where I'm headed and how it will ultimately turn out, it doesn't mean I destined to do go that way. Does the Spirit move in our lives? Certainly. Can we choose to escape God's care? You betcha!
In baptism, God claims us as his own. We can embrace that eternal life and live it to the fullest until we die and go to heaven or we can deny our maker and go prodigal for good. Most of us fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum. Life is full of ups and downs. What I love about these last several chapters of Acts are encouraging, inspiring statements like:
"Barnabas threw himself in with them, got behind them, urging them to stay with it the rest of their lives."
"Paul and Barnabas urged them in long conversations to stick with what they'd started, this living in and by God's grace."
Commitment to living our eternal lives, starting today.
Those who claim salvation, but point the finger at those who they think are going to "burn in hell" just want there to be some losers, so they can have more confidence in the fact that they are going to win. I was reminded again this week that when my life ends, I will be standing in the face of God's merciful judgment alone. We aren't going to be talking about anyone's sins but mine, nor anyone's grace but his.
We can either be a part of the solution (sharing the good news, connecting people to God) or part of the problem (judging others, casting guilt and shame...like we're not in the same sinking boat). That's the extent of my decision theology.
Rob contends that God is outside of time and space in such a way that our lives in his hands are like a dry erase marker in Rob's. God can see the totality of my earthy life all at once. I'm in the middle of it, so I'm not very objective. Although he can see where I'm headed and how it will ultimately turn out, it doesn't mean I destined to do go that way. Does the Spirit move in our lives? Certainly. Can we choose to escape God's care? You betcha!
In baptism, God claims us as his own. We can embrace that eternal life and live it to the fullest until we die and go to heaven or we can deny our maker and go prodigal for good. Most of us fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum. Life is full of ups and downs. What I love about these last several chapters of Acts are encouraging, inspiring statements like:
"Barnabas threw himself in with them, got behind them, urging them to stay with it the rest of their lives."
"Paul and Barnabas urged them in long conversations to stick with what they'd started, this living in and by God's grace."
Commitment to living our eternal lives, starting today.
Those who claim salvation, but point the finger at those who they think are going to "burn in hell" just want there to be some losers, so they can have more confidence in the fact that they are going to win. I was reminded again this week that when my life ends, I will be standing in the face of God's merciful judgment alone. We aren't going to be talking about anyone's sins but mine, nor anyone's grace but his.
We can either be a part of the solution (sharing the good news, connecting people to God) or part of the problem (judging others, casting guilt and shame...like we're not in the same sinking boat). That's the extent of my decision theology.
Jordan - Acts 13
"...and as many as had been destined for eternal life became believers" (13:48). I get a little deflated and confused when I read verses like this. Yes, I'm talking about predestination. If some of the Gentiles were destined for eternal life, was it necessary for Paul and Barnabas to be there? If there are people in this world who are destined to become believers and others who are not, then what is the point?
So, I decided to look it up. My second sentence above isn't a correct progression apparently. According to wikipedia (and no, wikipedia is not necessarily a valid source) Lutherans believe that if we trust in Jesus, we can feel that we will find eternal salvation because we are saved by God's grace. So, the Gentiles in the city in chapter 13 became believers and thus continued their path to eternal life. If they rejected Jesus after listening to the gospel, then they might be singing a different tune 2000 years later.
Is there a specific ELCA stance on predestination?
So, I decided to look it up. My second sentence above isn't a correct progression apparently. According to wikipedia (and no, wikipedia is not necessarily a valid source) Lutherans believe that if we trust in Jesus, we can feel that we will find eternal salvation because we are saved by God's grace. So, the Gentiles in the city in chapter 13 became believers and thus continued their path to eternal life. If they rejected Jesus after listening to the gospel, then they might be singing a different tune 2000 years later.
Is there a specific ELCA stance on predestination?
Monday, February 15, 2010
Jordan - Acts 12 or so
After a long weekend with family celebrating James baptism, I'm getting back to the blog. Unfortunately, the disciple James dies in chapter 12 of Acts. That's just not cool! So, I choose to write about the theme of the chapters I missed. Mainly that the walls between Gentiles and Jews are breaking down and the term "Christians" is coined. For me, these past three chapters have been refreshing. There is still a lot of violence surrounding these early Christians and by no means will the prejudice of the past disappear overnight, but there is a movement driven by Peter to break down barriers.
Peter and the early Christians were evangelists that were so in tune with the Holy Spirit that Luke practically makes it seem easy. Is there examples of this in today's world? Are there people who so easily go out into the community and bring people to God? I've lived in the Northeast my whole life and I can say that people who outwardly express the good news, practically disturb me. Yes, I know I shouldn't feel this way, but the first thing that pops into mind when I see someone talking to much scripture is that this person is likely conservative and wants people to change to be accepted in God's grace. This is likely the media and politics playing too much of a role in my opinion, but its also something that we as a church (especially in the secular northeast) have to acknowledge as a common reaction to "Christians" this day in age. As we go out into the community to talk about our church and our mission we will need to break down barriers, just as the early Christians did.
Peter and the early Christians were evangelists that were so in tune with the Holy Spirit that Luke practically makes it seem easy. Is there examples of this in today's world? Are there people who so easily go out into the community and bring people to God? I've lived in the Northeast my whole life and I can say that people who outwardly express the good news, practically disturb me. Yes, I know I shouldn't feel this way, but the first thing that pops into mind when I see someone talking to much scripture is that this person is likely conservative and wants people to change to be accepted in God's grace. This is likely the media and politics playing too much of a role in my opinion, but its also something that we as a church (especially in the secular northeast) have to acknowledge as a common reaction to "Christians" this day in age. As we go out into the community to talk about our church and our mission we will need to break down barriers, just as the early Christians did.
Kelly - not Acts 12
Today I read the chapter in the morning and stopped what I was beginning to write, planning to come back to it. My general comments on the chapter seemed again to be rather cynical and snarky - and I feel like I've been doing a lot of that lately. Thought I'd better spend some time trying to find deeper truth in today's scritpure or trying to figure out why I'm generally *bleep*y about what I've been reading lately.
The partial answer I've discovered is that I'm really having a hard time with Acts because it's about the development of the church as an institution. And as difficult as I find it to confront God's will for my life, the role that the institutional church plays in my life is much more complex and sometimes harder to deal with. Luke demanded a lot of me. Acts seems to be asking me to rejoice in the establishment of an institution to govern and control faith. As I read Acts, the Spirit is acting...the church is controlling. And I don't think that's what the author intended to write at all. So these must be my issues.
I still love the concrete church made up of messy people like me. I'm finding it harder to like Peter and the mythical early church every day.
The partial answer I've discovered is that I'm really having a hard time with Acts because it's about the development of the church as an institution. And as difficult as I find it to confront God's will for my life, the role that the institutional church plays in my life is much more complex and sometimes harder to deal with. Luke demanded a lot of me. Acts seems to be asking me to rejoice in the establishment of an institution to govern and control faith. As I read Acts, the Spirit is acting...the church is controlling. And I don't think that's what the author intended to write at all. So these must be my issues.
I still love the concrete church made up of messy people like me. I'm finding it harder to like Peter and the mythical early church every day.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Passionate Spirituality
Just a quick note of welcome. If you see posts from Alex or Becky, those are friends of mine from MN who read Scripture daily and may want to join the fun. Alex actually read the Bible in 12 months between mission trips. I've also asked Kelly to have her 7th-9th grade Sunday School class pick our next book, when we finish Acts in two and a half weeks. So we may have some teens posting or at least reading along and giving Kelly their insights on Sunday mornings. Please invite your friends from wherever to join us too.
Two things about today's reading: First of all, if you read this text with the Natural Church Development lens of passionate spirituality, you'll see how Peter and Barnabas are poster children for our minimum factor. Peter tells his buddies from Jerusalem, "I saw a vision. The Spirit told me to do thus and such." Do we ever talk like that? Do we listen for God's every command? Heidi and I live in MA and serve Faith, because the Spirit told her we should put my paperwork out here. Barnabas is described as "a good man, enthusiastic and confident in the Holy Spirit's ways." Then we hear that "the community grew large and strong in the Master". Why? Because they were passionately spiritual. Quality always proceeds quantity. Peter and Barnabas belonged to a people of faith you wanted to be around, serving alongside of.
Secondly, the last paragraph in chapter 11 grabbed me, one of the Jerusalem prophets named Agabus "prompted by the Spirit, warned that a severe famine was about to devastate the country. So the disciples decided that each of them would send whatever they could to their fellow Christians in Judea to help out." We showed a 30 Hour Famine DVD to the church today and many youth and adults will be fasting from 8 am on Mar 19th until 2 pm on Mar 20th. I pray that we can rally the troops and set up several Feeding Children International meal packaging stations for the Famine. Send whatever you can to Barbara. 25,000 kids Adi and Malachi's ages needlessly starve to death daily. When I started in youth ministry 15 years ago, that number was 40,000. After 15 years, 15,000 less kids die every day...do you think we could be 25 years from no world hunger? I'd be willing to spend the rest of my ministry trying to find out.
Two things about today's reading: First of all, if you read this text with the Natural Church Development lens of passionate spirituality, you'll see how Peter and Barnabas are poster children for our minimum factor. Peter tells his buddies from Jerusalem, "I saw a vision. The Spirit told me to do thus and such." Do we ever talk like that? Do we listen for God's every command? Heidi and I live in MA and serve Faith, because the Spirit told her we should put my paperwork out here. Barnabas is described as "a good man, enthusiastic and confident in the Holy Spirit's ways." Then we hear that "the community grew large and strong in the Master". Why? Because they were passionately spiritual. Quality always proceeds quantity. Peter and Barnabas belonged to a people of faith you wanted to be around, serving alongside of.
Secondly, the last paragraph in chapter 11 grabbed me, one of the Jerusalem prophets named Agabus "prompted by the Spirit, warned that a severe famine was about to devastate the country. So the disciples decided that each of them would send whatever they could to their fellow Christians in Judea to help out." We showed a 30 Hour Famine DVD to the church today and many youth and adults will be fasting from 8 am on Mar 19th until 2 pm on Mar 20th. I pray that we can rally the troops and set up several Feeding Children International meal packaging stations for the Famine. Send whatever you can to Barbara. 25,000 kids Adi and Malachi's ages needlessly starve to death daily. When I started in youth ministry 15 years ago, that number was 40,000. After 15 years, 15,000 less kids die every day...do you think we could be 25 years from no world hunger? I'd be willing to spend the rest of my ministry trying to find out.
Kelly -Acts 11
First a small note - I began by reading the NRSV study Bible, which I still am, mostly. But I'm finding myself blogging away from my usual spots lately - and when that happens I rely on the NIV text printed at biblegateway.com
The church is growing and expanding - and becoming more institionalized. As the Spirit is moving people to respond to the needs in Antioch and the number of the faithful are growning, the church in Jerusalem is striving to keep control of the situation. Even as I type this I'm thinking that this is a pretty cynical viewpoint to take, but it's the way the scriptures seem to read to me.
There is no evidence that the believers in Antioch asked for guidance, in fact they seemed to be growing quite well as is...but when the church in Jerusalem heard about events in Antioch, they sent Barnabas (v. 22). On the one hand, it speaks volumes about a church institution willing to support and stretch into new areas. On the other, it speaks about the need to be involved in or in control of the growth.
While I'm cautious about my own tendency towards the more cynical viewpoint, I honestly think that going too far towards lauding the efforts of the Jerusalem church is overly naive. I need to find a balance and recognize that in this early church, as in all churches today, many actions are filled with complex motivations - for good and for ill. We strive to serve God's interests, and we are conditioned to serve our own.
The church is growing and expanding - and becoming more institionalized. As the Spirit is moving people to respond to the needs in Antioch and the number of the faithful are growning, the church in Jerusalem is striving to keep control of the situation. Even as I type this I'm thinking that this is a pretty cynical viewpoint to take, but it's the way the scriptures seem to read to me.
There is no evidence that the believers in Antioch asked for guidance, in fact they seemed to be growing quite well as is...but when the church in Jerusalem heard about events in Antioch, they sent Barnabas (v. 22). On the one hand, it speaks volumes about a church institution willing to support and stretch into new areas. On the other, it speaks about the need to be involved in or in control of the growth.
While I'm cautious about my own tendency towards the more cynical viewpoint, I honestly think that going too far towards lauding the efforts of the Jerusalem church is overly naive. I need to find a balance and recognize that in this early church, as in all churches today, many actions are filled with complex motivations - for good and for ill. We strive to serve God's interests, and we are conditioned to serve our own.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Peter, Paul, and the body
God works in amazing ways. Traditionally, we think of Peter reaching out to Jews and Paul being called out to expand the kingdom of God to reach Gentiles. But in Acts 10, Peter says to Cornelius and those in his household, "You know, I'm sure that this is highly irregular. Jews just don't do this—visit and relax with people of another race. But God has just shown me that no race is better than any other. So the minute I was sent for, I came, no questions asked." Were we to be that responsive to God and to reach out to ANYONE who needs his grace (read EVERYONE).
Jordan, thanks for your reminder of that tree bearing fruit. We as the body of Christ in this place will bear fruit too, as each member nourishes his or her own spirituality and becomes passionate about it. Thank you all for reading the Bible daily and sharing your insights. It's like shoveling fertilizer under that tree.
We will also be focused on prayer. Elsie Carlson was hospitalized today and will need surgery soon. Please pray for her and her children (Bruce Carlson and Linda Burns) and her granddaughter, Caity. Pray also for James, as he receives the Holy Spirit in baptism tomorrow. His grandpa will be the one splashing the water.
Jordan, thanks for your reminder of that tree bearing fruit. We as the body of Christ in this place will bear fruit too, as each member nourishes his or her own spirituality and becomes passionate about it. Thank you all for reading the Bible daily and sharing your insights. It's like shoveling fertilizer under that tree.
We will also be focused on prayer. Elsie Carlson was hospitalized today and will need surgery soon. Please pray for her and her children (Bruce Carlson and Linda Burns) and her granddaughter, Caity. Pray also for James, as he receives the Holy Spirit in baptism tomorrow. His grandpa will be the one splashing the water.
Kelly - Acts 9 and 10
The most remarkable part of these chapters for me is the way in which other people responded to Paul and Peter. I can easily identify with all those people who were afraid to go anywhere near Paul and the disciples in Jerusalem who couldn't believe such a change.
God proves in these chapters the ability and willingness to use anyone and everyone for the bringing of the Kingdom. And while I can easily state that God forgives and grants grace, it is hard sometimes to really trust that. In an atmosphere that the disciples must have lived in - full of promise and surrounded by fear and what was only the beginning of many years of severe persecution - it would be almost impossible to be obedient and go to Paul. It would take a direct conversation with an angel to bring about that sort of faithfulness and trust from me.
Ananais in this story falls into the same category of some of the Bible's greatest figures for me. Like Joseph who was faithful to Mary and Moses who spoke to the Lord in a burning bush - his faithfulness is spurred on by something remarkable - and that incredible manifestation of God gives him the strength to do the almost impossible. And having done that, the history of the church is forever changed.
Acts 10 is a very familiar story that we discussed briefly in Sunday school last week - we mentioned Leviticus in passing and a couple of the kids came directly to the story related here. Sometimes they really impress me with their biblical knowledge.
God proves in these chapters the ability and willingness to use anyone and everyone for the bringing of the Kingdom. And while I can easily state that God forgives and grants grace, it is hard sometimes to really trust that. In an atmosphere that the disciples must have lived in - full of promise and surrounded by fear and what was only the beginning of many years of severe persecution - it would be almost impossible to be obedient and go to Paul. It would take a direct conversation with an angel to bring about that sort of faithfulness and trust from me.
Ananais in this story falls into the same category of some of the Bible's greatest figures for me. Like Joseph who was faithful to Mary and Moses who spoke to the Lord in a burning bush - his faithfulness is spurred on by something remarkable - and that incredible manifestation of God gives him the strength to do the almost impossible. And having done that, the history of the church is forever changed.
Acts 10 is a very familiar story that we discussed briefly in Sunday school last week - we mentioned Leviticus in passing and a couple of the kids came directly to the story related here. Sometimes they really impress me with their biblical knowledge.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Jordan - Acts 8-9
After the conversation with Matthew and Heidi on Wednesday night about James's baptism this Sunday, it was nice to read yesterday (yeah, i'm a little late on this post) about the references to baptism in this text. Baptism is important, its not just something that "needs to be done." Baptism is a community event, it brings family and friends together to share witness and share promises to a child (or adult) that is being marked with the cross of Christ forever. In Acts, baptism is performed to bring people into the family of believers to allow people to declare publicly that Jesus is the Way (9:2). The entrance into the community of faith is just as important (at least in my opinion) as the individuals entrance into God's grace. Because it is within this community that the we grow. The book that Matthew gave us explains this with an image of a fruit tree. A fruit tree does not bear fruit because it decides to, or tries real hard. The tree bears fruit because it is nurtured through its surroundings.
Saul seems to be a man on his own persecuting the early church. Jesus intervenes and affects his life; opening his heart. However, it is not until a member of the community, Aranias, lays hands on him and baptizes him that the change is complete. After fulfilling his call in Damascus he goes to join the disciples, to be nourished by the family.
James, on Sunday, will be joining the community. We are all responsible to help him grow in faith. Praise God!
Saul seems to be a man on his own persecuting the early church. Jesus intervenes and affects his life; opening his heart. However, it is not until a member of the community, Aranias, lays hands on him and baptizes him that the change is complete. After fulfilling his call in Damascus he goes to join the disciples, to be nourished by the family.
James, on Sunday, will be joining the community. We are all responsible to help him grow in faith. Praise God!
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Baptism--what's it all about?
We are one month and 100 posts into this journey through the Bible. Thanks for reading/blogging along with us. If you haven't checked out our website lately, go to www.faithlutheranquincy.com and click on The Garden.
Last night, Heidi and I braved the weather to eat pizza with Jordan and Erin and chat about James' baptism, which is this Sunday. In our reading today, Simon the Wizard gets baptized and learns what God's grace is really all about when Peter chastizes him, "That's unthinkable--trying to buy God's gift!" On the radio this morning (AM 590 or 950, I can't remember), I heard a discussion about people who know they are going to heaven, but never do any good works. When we light James' candle this weekend, we will tell him (and remind ourselves), "Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." Good works certainly don't get you into heaven, but we are to do them, so others have the opportunity to glorify God.
The Ethiopian eunuch gets baptized and glorifies God. The Holy Spirit must have rushed into his life, if he was out church building. Unfortunately, we don't control the Spirit. Like the wind, she blows as she pleases. We can only pray that she enters our life and our worship to transform us into the likeness of Jesus.
Last night, Heidi and I braved the weather to eat pizza with Jordan and Erin and chat about James' baptism, which is this Sunday. In our reading today, Simon the Wizard gets baptized and learns what God's grace is really all about when Peter chastizes him, "That's unthinkable--trying to buy God's gift!" On the radio this morning (AM 590 or 950, I can't remember), I heard a discussion about people who know they are going to heaven, but never do any good works. When we light James' candle this weekend, we will tell him (and remind ourselves), "Let your light shine before others so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." Good works certainly don't get you into heaven, but we are to do them, so others have the opportunity to glorify God.
The Ethiopian eunuch gets baptized and glorifies God. The Holy Spirit must have rushed into his life, if he was out church building. Unfortunately, we don't control the Spirit. Like the wind, she blows as she pleases. We can only pray that she enters our life and our worship to transform us into the likeness of Jesus.
Kelly - Acts 8
Philip is out and about and spreading the word....
What struck most about today's reading is the separation in Luke's mind between baptism and the receiving of the Holy Spirit, it seems to mesh with some American church traditions better than it does with the traditions I'm more familiar with. The believers in Samaria are "only baptized" until Peter and John show up to lay hands upon them. And the Ethiopian Eunuch is "only baptized" and as best we can tell never "receives the Holy Spirit" - but goes on his way rejoicing and founds the Coptic Church.
I'm more comfortable with the two being one....the sacrament of holy baptism is a sacrament precisely because it is a means of God's grace - and to me that means the invocation of the Holy Spirit. The baptism of Christ differs from the baptism that John offered in the wilderness because of this.
And yet I have to deal with a scripture that implies something different from what I'm comfortable believing (which is the way scripture should be, I guess). Not sure where to go with this discrepency....
2 hours later:
****Okay - so a little research has led to the following, which helps me a lot: The baptismal liturgy has 2 main parts. In the first part, the pastor baptizes "in the name of the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit" - whereas I suppose the Samaritans were only baptised in the name of the Son. That helps, but not as much as my second discovery....there is a prayer after the actual sprinkling of water in every baptismal service (ELCA, UMC, etc.) that includes the words "Pour out Your Holy Spirit". So we seem to have combined these two functions displayed in Acts into one sacrament.
What struck most about today's reading is the separation in Luke's mind between baptism and the receiving of the Holy Spirit, it seems to mesh with some American church traditions better than it does with the traditions I'm more familiar with. The believers in Samaria are "only baptized" until Peter and John show up to lay hands upon them. And the Ethiopian Eunuch is "only baptized" and as best we can tell never "receives the Holy Spirit" - but goes on his way rejoicing and founds the Coptic Church.
I'm more comfortable with the two being one....the sacrament of holy baptism is a sacrament precisely because it is a means of God's grace - and to me that means the invocation of the Holy Spirit. The baptism of Christ differs from the baptism that John offered in the wilderness because of this.
And yet I have to deal with a scripture that implies something different from what I'm comfortable believing (which is the way scripture should be, I guess). Not sure where to go with this discrepency....
2 hours later:
****Okay - so a little research has led to the following, which helps me a lot: The baptismal liturgy has 2 main parts. In the first part, the pastor baptizes "in the name of the Father and the Son, and the Holy Spirit" - whereas I suppose the Samaritans were only baptised in the name of the Son. That helps, but not as much as my second discovery....there is a prayer after the actual sprinkling of water in every baptismal service (ELCA, UMC, etc.) that includes the words "Pour out Your Holy Spirit". So we seem to have combined these two functions displayed in Acts into one sacrament.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Jordan - Acts 7
Well, if you ever want a recap of the old testament, I guess chapter 7 is the place to go. Poor Stephen launches into this diatribe, but its hard to get his point. I've heard speeches like this, where someone goes into the utmost detail to make a point but its hard to see the forest through the trees. Most likely, its one of those things where you had to be there. As with most speeches, its the delivery that makes the impact.
When he finishes the history lesson and says "Which of the prophets did your ancestors not persecute?", you need to read it again as well as the last few verses of the previous chapter to see where Stephen was most likely emphasizing phrases. Their accusation was that he was preaching that Jesus will change the laws that Moses handed down to them. Stephen is countering by saying that even Moses was mistreated during his life because of the lack of faith. The council is as guilty as the people in the past because they live by human law and not by the Holy Spirit.
At least, thats what I think that guy said...
When he finishes the history lesson and says "Which of the prophets did your ancestors not persecute?", you need to read it again as well as the last few verses of the previous chapter to see where Stephen was most likely emphasizing phrases. Their accusation was that he was preaching that Jesus will change the laws that Moses handed down to them. Stephen is countering by saying that even Moses was mistreated during his life because of the lack of faith. The council is as guilty as the people in the past because they live by human law and not by the Holy Spirit.
At least, thats what I think that guy said...
Master Jesus, take my life.
These were Stephen's 2nd to last words. He uses his last breath to say, "Master, don't blame them for this sin," some of Christ's last words to the Father. The reason I don't think this is a stupid martyrdom is that a young man named Saul is watching it all. With this seed planted by Stephen, Saul would go on to kill lots of other Chirstians and then encounter Jesus on the road to Damascus. Saul may have recognized God's presence because he witnessed Stephen's life of faith and tremendous sacrifice for the cause. At any rate, Saul becomes Paul and writes most of our New Testament. Stephen did not waste his life at all...
Kelly - Acts 7
So Stephen appears to be about as politically naive as can be ("stupid" is a word I'm trying to get out of my children's vocabulary, but it seems to apply here). When accused of blasphemy against Moses and the law, he launches into a diatribe proving his knowledge and grounding in that history....so far, so good. But then he ends that speech by with vv. 51-53 "You stiff-necked people....you always resist the Holy Spirit."
Jesus may have been politically unwise in repeatedly answering "you say that I am" when accused. But at least he didn't make direct accusations at the high priest and accuse him of murder. Is it any wonder this group decided to have Stephen stoned? He may have argued his case so that he could be seen not to be blaspheming Moses....but some people should learn to stop when they're ahead.
I believe it is in Matthew where we are called to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves." We are called to spread the faith in a complex world filled with complex motivations. And doing so requires some level of political and social maturity. Stephen may have been the first of the martyrs - but it seems a silly martyrdom to me. Others would die for their faith for good reason, due to the evil and jealousy and fear of the leaders of the land. Stephen died primarily because he didn't know when to stop. And I think this speech goes pretty far in establishing centuries of anti-semitism that we're still fighting today. Here is the first man to say explicitly that the Jews killed Christ.
Jesus may have been politically unwise in repeatedly answering "you say that I am" when accused. But at least he didn't make direct accusations at the high priest and accuse him of murder. Is it any wonder this group decided to have Stephen stoned? He may have argued his case so that he could be seen not to be blaspheming Moses....but some people should learn to stop when they're ahead.
I believe it is in Matthew where we are called to be "wise as serpents and innocent as doves." We are called to spread the faith in a complex world filled with complex motivations. And doing so requires some level of political and social maturity. Stephen may have been the first of the martyrs - but it seems a silly martyrdom to me. Others would die for their faith for good reason, due to the evil and jealousy and fear of the leaders of the land. Stephen died primarily because he didn't know when to stop. And I think this speech goes pretty far in establishing centuries of anti-semitism that we're still fighting today. Here is the first man to say explicitly that the Jews killed Christ.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Jordan - Acts 6
Not much to write about here. My only thought was that with the Hebrews neglecting the families of the Hellenists, the fairy tale of "everyone helping everyone" was starting to crumble a little bit. The twelve come to a good solution to that problem but you get the feeling that the prejudices of old still exist despite the new era. I'm curious to see how long Luke continues to highlight the utopia that is this growing group. There are always internal struggles within a group, but the power of the group is really seen if they are able to stay on mission despite the distractions.
The Word of God Prospered
This chapter is a classic example of what happens when those who do all of the work step back and realize that it's not healthy for them to do all of the work. The vaccuum created by their holding back draws others in, gives them room to serve, to use their gifts. The Twelve had a problem. They had the spiritual gifts of pastoring, teaching, and intercession, but mercy did not make their top 3. The 7 had the gift they lacked, besides being full of the Holy Spirit and good sense. Stephen also had the gift of faith. He had "the eyes to see the Spirit at work and the ability to trust the Spirit's leading without indication of where it all might lead." Unfortunately, as we will see in the next chapter, it lead to his death, but the growth of the early church was fueled by the blood of the martyrs. And pay close attention to who was holding everyone's coats when Stephen was stoned.
Kelly - Acts 6
Generally a blog should be about my thoughts on a scripture. But today the reading reminded me of one of my favorite writings by another author. Churches are very complicated places where people find great grace and cause each other great pain.
I found this about a decade ago, and I still turn to it regularly and find it to be more true than anything else I've ever read on church life. At least for me. Carlo Carletto - Roman Catholic devotional writer wrote:
"How baffling you are, O Church, and yet how I love you!
How you have made me suffer, and yet how much I owe you!
I should like to see you destroyed, and yet I need your presence.
You have given me so much scandal and yet you have made me understand sanctity.
I have seen nothing in the world more devoted to obscurity, more compromised, more false,
and I have touched nothing more pure, more generous, more beautiful.
How often I have wanted to shut the doors of my soul in your face,
and how often I have prayed to die in the safety of your arms.
No, I cannot free myself from you completely, because I am you, although not completely.
And where should I go?"
- from The God Who Comes by Carlo Caretto
I found this about a decade ago, and I still turn to it regularly and find it to be more true than anything else I've ever read on church life. At least for me. Carlo Carletto - Roman Catholic devotional writer wrote:
"How baffling you are, O Church, and yet how I love you!
How you have made me suffer, and yet how much I owe you!
I should like to see you destroyed, and yet I need your presence.
You have given me so much scandal and yet you have made me understand sanctity.
I have seen nothing in the world more devoted to obscurity, more compromised, more false,
and I have touched nothing more pure, more generous, more beautiful.
How often I have wanted to shut the doors of my soul in your face,
and how often I have prayed to die in the safety of your arms.
No, I cannot free myself from you completely, because I am you, although not completely.
And where should I go?"
- from The God Who Comes by Carlo Caretto
Monday, February 8, 2010
Insiders vs Outsiders
It's hard to get over the hurdle of Ananias and Sapphira and the apparent unfairness of God, but what caught me and wouldn't let go was found in the remainder of the reading. Under the section They All Met Regularly, this comment was made, "Even though people admired the apostles a lot, outsiders were wary about joining them." Remember that Luke is the defender of the outsider. Here is the description of his Gospel, "Religion has a long history of forming 'in' groups, but with God there are no 'outsiders'. Luke, being the only Gentile in an all-Jewish cast of New Testament writers, is a champion of the outsider (women, shepherds, Samaritans, the poor). For all of us who have found ourselves on the outside looking in, the doors are now wide open."
Because of what Jesus did for us, there truely are no outsiders with God, but the church is a different story. Too often, I've seen believers forget that this good news is meant to be passed on to others in need, others who are very different from us, others who make us uncomfortable, those who may sit in our season tickets because they don't know any better when they visit our church. God is in our midst, drawing others, all kinds of others, to himself. We can either follow the Spirit's lead in this or get in the way. We can either be limb-climbers or branch sitters and it doesn't just affect our faith and lives. We can be a stepping stone or a stumbling block for others' understanding of God's love for them.
In the last section of this text, Gamaliel's wisdom is profound. Peter and the apostles can't help but follow God. They would literally rather die than go that way...every one of them, including Matthias, do in fact. Is what we're doing at this church going to have a lasting impact on our community? Is God behind it? Let's make sure we're following him and not get ahead of ourselves (or his presence). It's not about us...it's about those God is trying to reach.
Because of what Jesus did for us, there truely are no outsiders with God, but the church is a different story. Too often, I've seen believers forget that this good news is meant to be passed on to others in need, others who are very different from us, others who make us uncomfortable, those who may sit in our season tickets because they don't know any better when they visit our church. God is in our midst, drawing others, all kinds of others, to himself. We can either follow the Spirit's lead in this or get in the way. We can either be limb-climbers or branch sitters and it doesn't just affect our faith and lives. We can be a stepping stone or a stumbling block for others' understanding of God's love for them.
In the last section of this text, Gamaliel's wisdom is profound. Peter and the apostles can't help but follow God. They would literally rather die than go that way...every one of them, including Matthias, do in fact. Is what we're doing at this church going to have a lasting impact on our community? Is God behind it? Let's make sure we're following him and not get ahead of ourselves (or his presence). It's not about us...it's about those God is trying to reach.
Jordan - Acts 5
A husband and wife lie about the amount they give to the church (more on the word church later) and they drop dead. What is this, the old testament? They might as well been torn limb from limb and their house laid in ruin. Why is fear a driving force and part of the foundation of the early church? I find fear tactics cheap, it prays on ignorance and killing someone because they lied hardly teaches the idea of forgiveness and repentance. Should we commit to God because we are scared of the alternative or should we love and server God because He first loved us?
According to the Lutheran Study Bible comment, verse 11 is the first time the term "church" is used. I wish it were in a more meaningful story, but it does not take away from (or maybe highlights) the meaning of the term. "The word means literally 'the called-out ones.'" Ananias and Sapphira were called out and there was no mistake about it. They messed up big time. I wonder how often God calls me out.and do I hear it every time (ever)? I just hope that God helps me make the right decision and if for some reason I don't, I hope that Peter isn't around to yell at me.
According to the Lutheran Study Bible comment, verse 11 is the first time the term "church" is used. I wish it were in a more meaningful story, but it does not take away from (or maybe highlights) the meaning of the term. "The word means literally 'the called-out ones.'" Ananias and Sapphira were called out and there was no mistake about it. They messed up big time. I wonder how often God calls me out.and do I hear it every time (ever)? I just hope that God helps me make the right decision and if for some reason I don't, I hope that Peter isn't around to yell at me.
FAITH
Since I have been quite for a while I thought I would put my thoughts of the first 5 chapters of Acts into one blog.
I think what strikes me the most about the readings so far is the passion of the apostles. Here they are alone without their leader and yet they are preaching and healing people without fear! The Sadducees and Chief Priests are after them, put them in jail and still they continue. What keeps them going ? their faith in Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit.
Faith to me, is a personal thing, something not everyone is comfortable sharing with others. Here are Jesus' disciples freely sharing their faith in God with everyone they come in contact with no matter the consequences. And people are joining them by the hundred! The power of the Holy Spirit is an awesome power.
Our God is an Awesome God!
P.S. I do agree with Kelly, why did Ananias and Sapphira die just because they held back some money? Sometimes the wrath of God is hard for us understand. But we have to have FAITH in his plan.
Kelly - Acts 5
I DO NOT like the story of Ananais and Sapphira. While no one seems to have made them sell the field, they were certainly punished quite severely for their failure to be honest about it all. Lie to the church = instantaneous death!
And the story ends "And great fear seized the whole church and all who heard of these things." (v. 11). Not my idea of what the church should be - or the community of believers.
When I try to work in how my life and this story mesh, I find I like the story even less. If the story is about lying to the church - then I'm pretty much okay. I'm honest about who I am and what I am able to offer and give willingly.
If the story is about giving everything, then it doesn't look so good for me. I do keep part of myself away from the community. Some of that is my personaility - I can be quite private in some ways. And I'm not really ready to be part of the complete and overwhelming church community in Acts. Some days it's all I can do to fully share my life with Marcus and the kids (especially the kids, who see everything and comment on it freely). I like some freedom and autonomy and anonymity - sharing everything all the time is asking a lot.
And the story ends "And great fear seized the whole church and all who heard of these things." (v. 11). Not my idea of what the church should be - or the community of believers.
When I try to work in how my life and this story mesh, I find I like the story even less. If the story is about lying to the church - then I'm pretty much okay. I'm honest about who I am and what I am able to offer and give willingly.
If the story is about giving everything, then it doesn't look so good for me. I do keep part of myself away from the community. Some of that is my personaility - I can be quite private in some ways. And I'm not really ready to be part of the complete and overwhelming church community in Acts. Some days it's all I can do to fully share my life with Marcus and the kids (especially the kids, who see everything and comment on it freely). I like some freedom and autonomy and anonymity - sharing everything all the time is asking a lot.
Sunday, February 7, 2010
Jordan - Acts 4
The Who?
Peter and John have no business preaching the way they are preaching in these chapters. "...they were uneducated and ordinary men..." (vs 13). The leaders of the time thought they were in the clear after getting rid of Jesus, but they only made matters worse. All of sudden, the random misfits following Jesus, the who's, are preaching with power and a boldness that only the Spirit could bestow on them. They prayed as a group that they would be given the strength to "step out on a limb."
Despite God's calling towards the edge of the branch, its difficult to do alone (albeit with God). But the group in this chapter is a group of socialists moving towards a common goal. When living as a bunch of people that cares for one another, the limb is that much more attainable.
...Alright, I know I have small children, but I am rooting for the Saints!!!
Peter and John have no business preaching the way they are preaching in these chapters. "...they were uneducated and ordinary men..." (vs 13). The leaders of the time thought they were in the clear after getting rid of Jesus, but they only made matters worse. All of sudden, the random misfits following Jesus, the who's, are preaching with power and a boldness that only the Spirit could bestow on them. They prayed as a group that they would be given the strength to "step out on a limb."
Despite God's calling towards the edge of the branch, its difficult to do alone (albeit with God). But the group in this chapter is a group of socialists moving towards a common goal. When living as a bunch of people that cares for one another, the limb is that much more attainable.
...Alright, I know I have small children, but I am rooting for the Saints!!!
God has a dream!
The section that grabbed me wasn't Peter's sermon, but what happened after he and John were released. In The Message, it's called One Heart, One Mind. They returned to their church family safe and sound and..."Everyone "lifted their voices in a wonderful harmony in prayer. While they were praying, the place where they were meeting trembled and shook. They were all filled with the Holy Spirit. The whole congregation was united as one! They shared everything. Grace was on all of them. Not a person among them was needy."
It's no wonder that 3,000 and then 5,000 more people joined this movement of love. That phrase makes me think of a t-shirt I saw at camp once. It said, "Love is the movement." To learn more about it and an incredible ministry of suicide prevention, go to www.twloha.com (to write love on her arms). The story they tell is powerful. I don't know where that came from, but apparently someone who reads this blog needed that word today. The Holy Spirit works in mysterious ways, loving us into the kingdom.Go Saints (the football team too)!
Kelly - Acts 4
Peter's performance in front of the council offers him a chance to atone for his denial just a few weeks ago. Then he was silent, today he speaks boldly. And the only thing that changes the results is "the people" who cried for crucifixion last time but this time cause the council to fear.
So often, the results of our faithfulness to God are dependent on so many things besides our faithfulness. Sometimes we make a great difference when we speak up, sometimes we don't. But we are still asked to speak boldly - trusting in God's grace and "the people" in all their flighty-ness to help bring about the Kingdom.
But I find comfort in the fact that Peter got a second chance to do the right thing in this reading. Because I certainly chicken out of doing God's will often enough. And somehow, as in this chapter, I usually find I get another chance to do the right thing. I can't undo my previous unfaithfulness, or the consequences of it, but God gives me an opportunity to try again and get it right.
So often, the results of our faithfulness to God are dependent on so many things besides our faithfulness. Sometimes we make a great difference when we speak up, sometimes we don't. But we are still asked to speak boldly - trusting in God's grace and "the people" in all their flighty-ness to help bring about the Kingdom.
But I find comfort in the fact that Peter got a second chance to do the right thing in this reading. Because I certainly chicken out of doing God's will often enough. And somehow, as in this chapter, I usually find I get another chance to do the right thing. I can't undo my previous unfaithfulness, or the consequences of it, but God gives me an opportunity to try again and get it right.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Jordan - Acts 3
Its really amazing how selfless these disciples are. Peter has been the focus of the last two chapters and he is setting the tone. Equipped with the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter can heal a crippled man and even though he could easily ride to celebrity status, instead he gives the glory to God. I liked the image that was created in that seen when the man who was forever outside the temple entered the temple with them and was now on equal footing by the grace of God.
"Author of life" (vs 15) is a term for Jesus that I had never heard/read before (I don't think). Its really a beautiful title that captures the creative power of God.
"Author of life" (vs 15) is a term for Jesus that I had never heard/read before (I don't think). Its really a beautiful title that captures the creative power of God.
Blessed to be a Blessing
The end of today's reading got me: "God's covenant-word to Abraham provides the text: 'By your offspring all the families of the earth will be blessed.'" We need to go back to Genesis 12 to find this first command with a promise: "God told Abram(ham): 'Leave your country, your family, and your father's home for a land that I will show you. I'll make you a great nation and bless you. I'll make you famous; you'll be a blessing. All the families of the Earth will be blessed through you.'" Abraham is the father of 3 major world faiths: Muslims, Jews, and Christians. What if we all decided to bless our neighbor? That would cover the whole world.
Please stay after late service tomorrow. We will be packaging 5 boxes of Feeding Children International meals (enough to feed 3 children for an entire year at the cost of $108) in anticipation of our 30 Hour Famine in 40 days (Mar 19th-20th). I'm hoping the whole congregation gets excited about fasting, raising money, and feeding starving children across the street and around the world. The greater Boston food shelf really needs our help, as usage by families is WAY up. Feeding Children International of Stewart, MN started in 2003 with a dream, John committed to driving his mobile unit "up to 50 miles until they packaged 1 million meals". I did my first packaging with them in 2005. To date, they have packaged 52 million meals. I've packaged a million myself. Join the cause. Kids need to be blessed.
Please stay after late service tomorrow. We will be packaging 5 boxes of Feeding Children International meals (enough to feed 3 children for an entire year at the cost of $108) in anticipation of our 30 Hour Famine in 40 days (Mar 19th-20th). I'm hoping the whole congregation gets excited about fasting, raising money, and feeding starving children across the street and around the world. The greater Boston food shelf really needs our help, as usage by families is WAY up. Feeding Children International of Stewart, MN started in 2003 with a dream, John committed to driving his mobile unit "up to 50 miles until they packaged 1 million meals". I did my first packaging with them in 2005. To date, they have packaged 52 million meals. I've packaged a million myself. Join the cause. Kids need to be blessed.
Kelly - Acts 3
We've stumbled across the lyrics to a song I learned in Sunday School, and so I am completely unable to read these words with anything like objectivity because I can only hear the melody in the background....
"And the man went WALKING and LEAPING and Praising God, WALKING and LEAPING and Praising God...."
Love these words, though, and the melody only serves to highlight them. Before we've read about people who gave thanks to Jesus for healing them, the 1 leper of 10 who turned back particularly to give thanks and praise...but this is the first time I've really seen a man filled with exuberant joy over his healing. Having been lovingly carried by his friends each day to beg for alms at the gate - he doesn't just stand up and go to the temple and pray his thanksgiving - he's LEAPING around the temple. Leap.. leap.. leap -- spread the joy!
"And the man went WALKING and LEAPING and Praising God, WALKING and LEAPING and Praising God...."
Love these words, though, and the melody only serves to highlight them. Before we've read about people who gave thanks to Jesus for healing them, the 1 leper of 10 who turned back particularly to give thanks and praise...but this is the first time I've really seen a man filled with exuberant joy over his healing. Having been lovingly carried by his friends each day to beg for alms at the gate - he doesn't just stand up and go to the temple and pray his thanksgiving - he's LEAPING around the temple. Leap.. leap.. leap -- spread the joy!
Friday, February 5, 2010
Kelly - Acts 2
"And I will pour out my spirit....and they will prophesy."
Finding prophets in these days is different than it seems to have been in Jesus' time. Although we still have people who stand on street corners, or on late-night TV, and proclaim...these are not the prophets I usually see. In the church Marcus and I attended in Somerville when we were first married, the prophet was Cathy, in Boston it was Gary, and in Weymouth it was Becky. There were others, but these 3 will forever stand out in my mind as having the "gift" of prophesy - or of willingly taking on that role within that community of faith.
Each of them spoke their mind, and was always "a little off" of the mainstream. They all made me feel uncomfortable - but always because I knew they were challenging me to something new. Cathy began by pushing for political action to demand living wages for all workers in the state of Massachusetts. Certainly this was something that was godly, but pushing my faith from the realm of the comfortable pew into social and political action was difficult for me to say the least. Gary kept pushing the congregation on race relations, and Becky was a constant whirlwind of political causes - all Godly and inspired by her faith, and never-ending.
And there are quieter prophets among us, but hearing the word of God come to me through them takes more focus and attention. There are those who make a prophetic statement by the type of car they drive, or by refusing to buy goods made at the expense of child labor. There are people like Anneli who have worked to bring the farmer's market in as a prophetic statement about our food and our economy. I am learning that we are a congregation with many quiet prophets. And the better I get at listening to these voices the more blessed I feel to be learning to live out my faith among them.
Finding prophets in these days is different than it seems to have been in Jesus' time. Although we still have people who stand on street corners, or on late-night TV, and proclaim...these are not the prophets I usually see. In the church Marcus and I attended in Somerville when we were first married, the prophet was Cathy, in Boston it was Gary, and in Weymouth it was Becky. There were others, but these 3 will forever stand out in my mind as having the "gift" of prophesy - or of willingly taking on that role within that community of faith.
Each of them spoke their mind, and was always "a little off" of the mainstream. They all made me feel uncomfortable - but always because I knew they were challenging me to something new. Cathy began by pushing for political action to demand living wages for all workers in the state of Massachusetts. Certainly this was something that was godly, but pushing my faith from the realm of the comfortable pew into social and political action was difficult for me to say the least. Gary kept pushing the congregation on race relations, and Becky was a constant whirlwind of political causes - all Godly and inspired by her faith, and never-ending.
And there are quieter prophets among us, but hearing the word of God come to me through them takes more focus and attention. There are those who make a prophetic statement by the type of car they drive, or by refusing to buy goods made at the expense of child labor. There are people like Anneli who have worked to bring the farmer's market in as a prophetic statement about our food and our economy. I am learning that we are a congregation with many quiet prophets. And the better I get at listening to these voices the more blessed I feel to be learning to live out my faith among them.
Women and men, together in prayer
Have you ever had a remembrance of how something happened and then a much more capable witness tells you the truth and you have trouble believing it? A couple of examples from my childhood: After my parents divorced, we moved to subsidized housing in town and were poor. My mom would sneak me down to the basement of the library for what I remember to be Head Start. In college, a classroom full of us were asked one J-term, "Did any of you attend Head Start?" I was the only one to admit to it. I mentioned this to my mom and she set me straight, "That was story time."
In elementary school, we needed to find out our heritage (i.e. what percentage of everything we are). My mom is 100% German. My dad is everything else...he claims Swedish, Norwegian, English, Scottish, Pawnee Indian, and Irish in descending order. I even had it written down somewhere for the assignment. This is one of the things I still have after living in my car for three months. Someone asked me this question once in my mom's presence. She said, "You're not Irish." There goes St. Patty's Day. I still don't believe her on this one.
From our Gospels, I have always gotten the impression that during the 10 days between Christ's ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit in power the disciples were huddled together in the upper room for fear of the Jews. I have re-read the end of Luke and the beginning of Acts and I can't find that anywhere! So much of our media is fear-driven, but not with Luke. After Jesus goes up into the heavens, "They were on their knees, worshiping him. They returned to Jerusalem bursting with joy. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God."
There is a little overlap in the story, so in Acts two men in white robes appear and assure them that Jesus is coming back, "So they left the mountain called Olives and returned to Jerusalem." They went to the upper room to pick a 12th and, this is my favorite line, "They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included." If we did just this one thing, Faith would take a giant leap forward in health...the focus on prayer, not equality for women (we're doing fairly well with that, right Kelly? please correct me if I'm wrong).
After Peter lets everyone know that it was the Spirit, not spirits that caused Pentecost to get so out of control, we hear more about the disciples' life together (the 12 become know as apostles at this point, because they are sent out in pairs, hence the need for an even number...everyone else who follows Jesus is called a disciple--that's why I go by Matthew, instead of Matt...I want to be reminded that I'm a disciple every time someone uses my name): "They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers. All the believers lived in a wonderful harmony, holding everything in common. They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person's need was met. They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration (i.e. the common meal--the Lord's Supper), exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved. "
My hope for Faith is that we could live like that, knowing one another intimately, reading the Bible and praying together, so that we will have the wherewithal to make a difference in our community and the world.
In elementary school, we needed to find out our heritage (i.e. what percentage of everything we are). My mom is 100% German. My dad is everything else...he claims Swedish, Norwegian, English, Scottish, Pawnee Indian, and Irish in descending order. I even had it written down somewhere for the assignment. This is one of the things I still have after living in my car for three months. Someone asked me this question once in my mom's presence. She said, "You're not Irish." There goes St. Patty's Day. I still don't believe her on this one.
From our Gospels, I have always gotten the impression that during the 10 days between Christ's ascension and the coming of the Holy Spirit in power the disciples were huddled together in the upper room for fear of the Jews. I have re-read the end of Luke and the beginning of Acts and I can't find that anywhere! So much of our media is fear-driven, but not with Luke. After Jesus goes up into the heavens, "They were on their knees, worshiping him. They returned to Jerusalem bursting with joy. They spent all their time in the Temple praising God."
There is a little overlap in the story, so in Acts two men in white robes appear and assure them that Jesus is coming back, "So they left the mountain called Olives and returned to Jerusalem." They went to the upper room to pick a 12th and, this is my favorite line, "They agreed they were in this for good, completely together in prayer, the women included." If we did just this one thing, Faith would take a giant leap forward in health...the focus on prayer, not equality for women (we're doing fairly well with that, right Kelly? please correct me if I'm wrong).
After Peter lets everyone know that it was the Spirit, not spirits that caused Pentecost to get so out of control, we hear more about the disciples' life together (the 12 become know as apostles at this point, because they are sent out in pairs, hence the need for an even number...everyone else who follows Jesus is called a disciple--that's why I go by Matthew, instead of Matt...I want to be reminded that I'm a disciple every time someone uses my name): "They committed themselves to the teaching of the apostles, the life together, the common meal, and the prayers. All the believers lived in a wonderful harmony, holding everything in common. They sold whatever they owned and pooled their resources so that each person's need was met. They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration (i.e. the common meal--the Lord's Supper), exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved. "
My hope for Faith is that we could live like that, knowing one another intimately, reading the Bible and praying together, so that we will have the wherewithal to make a difference in our community and the world.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Jordan - Acts 1
Before Jesus returns in the cloud, the disciples feel they have finally figured it out. This is miraculous, Jesus has risen from the dead. But now he is finally going wipe out all of Israel's enemies and setup the earthly kingdom. Their dedication is finally going to pay off. Jesus has to set them all straight again and tell them that their work is not yet done.
Its funny, during the gospels, the disciples are portrayed in various states of childish intelligence. Yet, now that they are being sent off on their own you get the sense that these guys really know what they are talking about. Kelly's point about them choosing Judas's replacement peacefully seems to attest to how mature and thoughtful these guys really are. Sometimes you need to cut some people loose in order to find out how much they are capable of.
Its funny, during the gospels, the disciples are portrayed in various states of childish intelligence. Yet, now that they are being sent off on their own you get the sense that these guys really know what they are talking about. Kelly's point about them choosing Judas's replacement peacefully seems to attest to how mature and thoughtful these guys really are. Sometimes you need to cut some people loose in order to find out how much they are capable of.
Kelly - Acts 1
At the end of this chapter, the 11 disciples cast lots to figure out who should replace Judas and Matthias is chosen as the new 12th disciple. I must admit I'm rather amazed at how smoothly that seems to have gone. It may just be that the story is reported smoothly, but even that seems a bit remarkable.
I'm used to much talk in church circles about "discernment" - discerning what is the will of God and acting on it. A previous bishop I knew well spoke about it all the time. To the point where I really began to get cynical about the process. It's not that I don't believe that God has a preference for some things - I just don't believe that God has a preference for EVERYTHING. And I certainly don't believe that we sinful humans are very good at figuring out what that preference is.
I don't begin each day by discerning which way God would have me drive to run my errands or what shirt I should wear. I believe that even in the small things, some decisions are more pleasing to God than others (God would prefer I eat a healthy breakfast that respects my body and is good to the earth - but I don't believe that I have fully disappointed God by eating a donut). And even in big decisions, God can bring miracles out of many different choices. What will we do with the Faith Center? There is room for great grace in many different ways. And though we may pray and labor and study and listen for God's will - I don't believe we will ever find "the answer" and know it to be "the answer" with absolute certainty. We will find "an answer" that leaves room for God's power and grace to become manifest.
The disciples "discerned" that Matthias was the right choice to join the 12 -but I believe God could have brought miracles through Joseph, as well. And I have never sat in a committee meeting of more than 3 people who simply decided anything as easily as this decision is presented in Acts - I find it very hard to believe that the 11 and a crowd of 120 persons came to big decision about how they would be organized and who would hold leadership so easily.
I'm used to much talk in church circles about "discernment" - discerning what is the will of God and acting on it. A previous bishop I knew well spoke about it all the time. To the point where I really began to get cynical about the process. It's not that I don't believe that God has a preference for some things - I just don't believe that God has a preference for EVERYTHING. And I certainly don't believe that we sinful humans are very good at figuring out what that preference is.
I don't begin each day by discerning which way God would have me drive to run my errands or what shirt I should wear. I believe that even in the small things, some decisions are more pleasing to God than others (God would prefer I eat a healthy breakfast that respects my body and is good to the earth - but I don't believe that I have fully disappointed God by eating a donut). And even in big decisions, God can bring miracles out of many different choices. What will we do with the Faith Center? There is room for great grace in many different ways. And though we may pray and labor and study and listen for God's will - I don't believe we will ever find "the answer" and know it to be "the answer" with absolute certainty. We will find "an answer" that leaves room for God's power and grace to become manifest.
The disciples "discerned" that Matthias was the right choice to join the 12 -but I believe God could have brought miracles through Joseph, as well. And I have never sat in a committee meeting of more than 3 people who simply decided anything as easily as this decision is presented in Acts - I find it very hard to believe that the 11 and a crowd of 120 persons came to big decision about how they would be organized and who would hold leadership so easily.
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Talking and Eating
The road to Emmaus. Adi's name was almost Emma due to this story. It only appears in Acts and I love it. Jesus walks on the road for 7 miles with these two disciples and they talk about "all these things" and then they eat. Tonight, we did it differently. We ate and then we talked. We're going to be doing a lot more talking and eating in the next several years. God's got BIG plans for Faith and the work we will do in his name. Whether it be welcome coffees or any number of small groups popping up in homes (or a cooking class or a motorcycle club), we're all going to become more passionately spiritual together. For those blogging or reading this blog, we are moving to the book of Acts tomorrow. Here's a preview from The Message:
This book is Luke's second volume. His task is to prevent us from becoming mere spectators to Jesus. The story doesn't end with Jesus. It continues in the lives of those who believe in him, in us.
This book is Luke's second volume. His task is to prevent us from becoming mere spectators to Jesus. The story doesn't end with Jesus. It continues in the lives of those who believe in him, in us.
Jordan - Luke 24
Done with Luke!!
Jesus says to the two: "Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared!" (25).
Later, after their eyes are opened, the two say to each other: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road..." (32).
I underlined these verses this morning on the train noting how odd it was that these two disciples could have such conflicting feelings of the heart, but I didn't quite know if it was something to write about. However, tonight at the Carlson's home a small group of us were talking about the results Pastor Matthew's Natural Church Development survey and Faith's weakest area is Passionate Spirituality. Our best area is Inspiring Worship Service. So, interestingly enough, our hearts burn on Sundays from 8am-ish to 12ish and then go through gradual cool (slow) down period until the next Sunday.
For me, this blog through the Bible experience is really helping me stay spiritually connected throughout the week. This is my personal time to dwell in The Word. I'm hoping that over the next year I can work on more interpersonal spiritual relationships outside the web. (Although, I know that people are reading this and this small community is connecting in some way, its still more of an editorial column to this point).
Tonight at the Carlson's was fun and I didn't even realize how fun until I noticed how Erin and I were talking about ideas etc. the whole ride home...
On to Acts!!
Jesus says to the two: "Oh, how foolish you are, and how slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have declared!" (25).
Later, after their eyes are opened, the two say to each other: "Were not our hearts burning within us while he was talking to us on the road..." (32).
I underlined these verses this morning on the train noting how odd it was that these two disciples could have such conflicting feelings of the heart, but I didn't quite know if it was something to write about. However, tonight at the Carlson's home a small group of us were talking about the results Pastor Matthew's Natural Church Development survey and Faith's weakest area is Passionate Spirituality. Our best area is Inspiring Worship Service. So, interestingly enough, our hearts burn on Sundays from 8am-ish to 12ish and then go through gradual cool (slow) down period until the next Sunday.
For me, this blog through the Bible experience is really helping me stay spiritually connected throughout the week. This is my personal time to dwell in The Word. I'm hoping that over the next year I can work on more interpersonal spiritual relationships outside the web. (Although, I know that people are reading this and this small community is connecting in some way, its still more of an editorial column to this point).
Tonight at the Carlson's was fun and I didn't even realize how fun until I noticed how Erin and I were talking about ideas etc. the whole ride home...
On to Acts!!
Kelly - Luke 24
Woo Hoo - all of Luke!
Seems like a continuation of yesterday's well-reahearsed and hashed out narrative. With the added emphasis on a bodily resurrection - making sure that the disciples distinguish between the resurrection and a ghost - with them feeling the body and two scenes of Christ eating. Although I admit I say every week that "I believe in the resurrection of the body" I must admit that I mean it more metaphorically than Luke does. And I'm certainly not alone.
Some churches we're affiliated with have started building columbariums - to store the ashes of some of its members, as old church cemeteries used to do (still do). If the churches are moving in this way out of concern for the environment and realities of our populated world, then we must be beginning to officially leave the theological need for catacombs behind us.
Seems like a continuation of yesterday's well-reahearsed and hashed out narrative. With the added emphasis on a bodily resurrection - making sure that the disciples distinguish between the resurrection and a ghost - with them feeling the body and two scenes of Christ eating. Although I admit I say every week that "I believe in the resurrection of the body" I must admit that I mean it more metaphorically than Luke does. And I'm certainly not alone.
Some churches we're affiliated with have started building columbariums - to store the ashes of some of its members, as old church cemeteries used to do (still do). If the churches are moving in this way out of concern for the environment and realities of our populated world, then we must be beginning to officially leave the theological need for catacombs behind us.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Jordan - Luke 23
We the people...
I just read a story today about a researcher who came across and early copy of the constitution in the archives in Philadelphia. She found it by following a scribbled "We the people" on one of James Wilson's other writings. It was a coincidence that I came across that article today while reading Luke 23 because I decided to intentionally watch how Luke portrayed "the people" in the gospel. When studying Mark with Pastor Holm and Pastor Schulhaus we were commenting on how "the people" go from praising Jesus in the entrance to Jerusalem and then quickly turn into "the people" or "the crowd" that cry to Pilate to "Crucify Him."
In almost all Passion readings/plays, the same people who are the crowd in Jerusalem and the crowd that pressures Pilate. It creates an eerie darkness where the mob rules despite a corrupt and mocking governor (Pilate) oddly defending Jesus. The mob gets this strange distinction despite the fact that throughout the rest of the gospel, the majority of crowds are doing everything possible to get close to Jesus and listen to him preach.
Thanks to my trusty Lutheran Study Bible, I didn't have to seek out an answer too hard. In verse 23:13 the comment says: "the people: This may refer to a crowd, but not to all the Jews or all the people in Jerusalem." I agree, this can't be the same group of people, but I have to say that its almost a little disappointing that there isn't this cloudy change of heart in crowds of Jerusalem.
Another thing I notice about this chapter is how quickly Luke turns from a collection of bits and pieces to captivating witness. Its obvious that this is where the details and embellishments of oral history are coming through.
I just read a story today about a researcher who came across and early copy of the constitution in the archives in Philadelphia. She found it by following a scribbled "We the people" on one of James Wilson's other writings. It was a coincidence that I came across that article today while reading Luke 23 because I decided to intentionally watch how Luke portrayed "the people" in the gospel. When studying Mark with Pastor Holm and Pastor Schulhaus we were commenting on how "the people" go from praising Jesus in the entrance to Jerusalem and then quickly turn into "the people" or "the crowd" that cry to Pilate to "Crucify Him."
In almost all Passion readings/plays, the same people who are the crowd in Jerusalem and the crowd that pressures Pilate. It creates an eerie darkness where the mob rules despite a corrupt and mocking governor (Pilate) oddly defending Jesus. The mob gets this strange distinction despite the fact that throughout the rest of the gospel, the majority of crowds are doing everything possible to get close to Jesus and listen to him preach.
Thanks to my trusty Lutheran Study Bible, I didn't have to seek out an answer too hard. In verse 23:13 the comment says: "the people: This may refer to a crowd, but not to all the Jews or all the people in Jerusalem." I agree, this can't be the same group of people, but I have to say that its almost a little disappointing that there isn't this cloudy change of heart in crowds of Jerusalem.
Another thing I notice about this chapter is how quickly Luke turns from a collection of bits and pieces to captivating witness. Its obvious that this is where the details and embellishments of oral history are coming through.
Do all dogs go to heaven?
I'm having a rough day. Family and work "interruptions" have caused me to read this chapter in 3 parts. Now that I can take a breath, I read about my Savior taking his last one. In two hours and 13 miniutes, my wife and I will be taking the wedding gift I gave her (our dog, Poocher) to the vet to be put to sleep. Please pray for our family during this time of grief.
Kelly - Luke 23
Again, scriptures like this are hard to read with a fresh eye since I've heard and read them so many times over so many years....but two small references caught my eye.
The first was the story of Simon of Cyrene -the man who was "coming from the country" and taken and made to carry the cross. How strange it must have been to be taken from your own errands and made to participate in this drama. We know nothing about him. Perhaps he was coming from the country to join the crowds and weep or chant for crucifixion. Perhaps he was a follower of Christ's teachings, perhaps he just wanted to sell some produce or buy some cloth - and though he tried to avoid the crowd, he got caught up in it. Although I recognize that it was the soldiers who grabbed Simon, it made me think of the times that God tries to grab me when my mind is on other things. I must admit that I can get extreme tunnel vision. There are needs that surround me when I'm trying to get my errands done or my studying done....and if I see it, I am not very faithful in helping others to carry their crosses. I am wonderful at excuses, though. Sometimes I go with the well-used "I don't reallyknow them and I don't want to intrude" and other times with a more creative "I know them so well, they'll understand that I just can't help right now." One of my growing edges is learning and acting on the fact that there is always room for compassion.
My other observation today is that this is the second time in two chapters that Jesus has talked about the added pain that is coming to those who have small children. v. 29 "Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed." taken from Isaiah 54. While these words must certainly be taken in context - and could cause great pain to many in our society - they strike true to me in some ways. While I am most certainly a feminist, and recognize that the family dynamics of Jesus' time were vastly different from our own, and recognize that Marcus (and Jordan and Matthew) are fabulous fathers.....I stand by my belief that it's just different being mommy - it changes your identity more. And it complicates and changes my faith life. There are things that "I" would do that I would never allow "my children's mother" to do. "I" would enjoy skydiving, "their mother" will not be endangering herself until they are in college. "I" can follow Christ more easily, and if not follow to the cross, I can get closer to it on my own. "Their mother" is not so sure about leading my children down that path.
The first was the story of Simon of Cyrene -the man who was "coming from the country" and taken and made to carry the cross. How strange it must have been to be taken from your own errands and made to participate in this drama. We know nothing about him. Perhaps he was coming from the country to join the crowds and weep or chant for crucifixion. Perhaps he was a follower of Christ's teachings, perhaps he just wanted to sell some produce or buy some cloth - and though he tried to avoid the crowd, he got caught up in it. Although I recognize that it was the soldiers who grabbed Simon, it made me think of the times that God tries to grab me when my mind is on other things. I must admit that I can get extreme tunnel vision. There are needs that surround me when I'm trying to get my errands done or my studying done....and if I see it, I am not very faithful in helping others to carry their crosses. I am wonderful at excuses, though. Sometimes I go with the well-used "I don't reallyknow them and I don't want to intrude" and other times with a more creative "I know them so well, they'll understand that I just can't help right now." One of my growing edges is learning and acting on the fact that there is always room for compassion.
My other observation today is that this is the second time in two chapters that Jesus has talked about the added pain that is coming to those who have small children. v. 29 "Blessed are the barren and the wombs that never bore, and the breasts that never nursed." taken from Isaiah 54. While these words must certainly be taken in context - and could cause great pain to many in our society - they strike true to me in some ways. While I am most certainly a feminist, and recognize that the family dynamics of Jesus' time were vastly different from our own, and recognize that Marcus (and Jordan and Matthew) are fabulous fathers.....I stand by my belief that it's just different being mommy - it changes your identity more. And it complicates and changes my faith life. There are things that "I" would do that I would never allow "my children's mother" to do. "I" would enjoy skydiving, "their mother" will not be endangering herself until they are in college. "I" can follow Christ more easily, and if not follow to the cross, I can get closer to it on my own. "Their mother" is not so sure about leading my children down that path.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Jordan - Luke 22
Playing the role...
Was Judas evil or did evil become him? While trying to skirt around the whole predestination idea, I was struck by the words in verse 3, "Then Satan entered into Judas..." Was Judas chosen as the betrayer or was he just a problem child who decided that this was his time to profit? In Matthew, one would believe the latter because he seems to act on his own accord. Luke seems to allude to his part in fulfilling a prophecy as Judas seems almost a man possessed.
Peter also plays his part in making history by denying Jesus. Poor Peter! But, can you imagine if Peter had the guts to stand next to stand next to Jesus? he would have been killed and there is a good chance that "the church built on the rock" is never built! You gotta know when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em I guess!
For most of the night tonight, I was chairing the Lutheran Ministry in the Fenway board meeting. For the first time (in a loooong time) our income exceeded our expenses (barely). God works in mysterious ways because that was just about the last thing I expected from last year. The fact is, the clock on these ministries is still ticking, but a little slower now, Praise God! Why did I write this? Well, I'm trying to figure out what my role will be in the future of these ministries. Will I be president of the board while these ministries fade away, or will this small victory from last year be the beginning of new growth and opportunity. For the latter to be true, it will involve a lot of work and I am hoping that God can give me and the wonderful people that make up the board the strength to do God's work with our hands.
Was Judas evil or did evil become him? While trying to skirt around the whole predestination idea, I was struck by the words in verse 3, "Then Satan entered into Judas..." Was Judas chosen as the betrayer or was he just a problem child who decided that this was his time to profit? In Matthew, one would believe the latter because he seems to act on his own accord. Luke seems to allude to his part in fulfilling a prophecy as Judas seems almost a man possessed.
Peter also plays his part in making history by denying Jesus. Poor Peter! But, can you imagine if Peter had the guts to stand next to stand next to Jesus? he would have been killed and there is a good chance that "the church built on the rock" is never built! You gotta know when to hold 'em and know when to fold 'em I guess!
For most of the night tonight, I was chairing the Lutheran Ministry in the Fenway board meeting. For the first time (in a loooong time) our income exceeded our expenses (barely). God works in mysterious ways because that was just about the last thing I expected from last year. The fact is, the clock on these ministries is still ticking, but a little slower now, Praise God! Why did I write this? Well, I'm trying to figure out what my role will be in the future of these ministries. Will I be president of the board while these ministries fade away, or will this small victory from last year be the beginning of new growth and opportunity. For the latter to be true, it will involve a lot of work and I am hoping that God can give me and the wonderful people that make up the board the strength to do God's work with our hands.
Swords and Servants
We just elected a new Council, full of great leaders who will use their giftedness to build up the body. Hopefully, we take a page out of Jesus' playbook, "Kings like to throw their weight around and people in authority like to give themselves fancy titles. It's not going to be that way with you. Let the senior among you become like the junior; let the leader act the part of the servant." Christ was obviously a very different kind of king.
In Greek, the word we read as servant is often slave, so I thought I'd do a little word search to see if sword(s) or servant/slave(s) appears more in the Bible. Sword: 176 occurrences. Servant/Slave: 981 times! Since 9-11 (2001!), we've been at war. Maybe servanthood is the way to go...
In Greek, the word we read as servant is often slave, so I thought I'd do a little word search to see if sword(s) or servant/slave(s) appears more in the Bible. Sword: 176 occurrences. Servant/Slave: 981 times! Since 9-11 (2001!), we've been at war. Maybe servanthood is the way to go...
Kelly - Luke 22
Throughout this chapter Jesus seems to have changed a bit...from the apocolyptic teacher and healer into someone who stands outside of time - with the eye and understanding of God.
All of a sudden in these verses Jesus seems to know the future, and has begun acting out a pre-destined sort of play. He told the disciples a chapter or 2 ago how to find the donkey for his entrance into Jerusalem, today he tells them about following the man with the water jug to find the upper room for the Passover Feast, about when he will enjoy wine, about Peter's denial, and about Judas's intended kiss. While I know and am very familiar with all these stories, it has struck me today that Jesus seems to have changed personalities a bit - I don't remember him acting so much like he was following a script in the rest of the book.
I feel like Luke is highlighting his divinity a bit more in this section. And in vv. 69-70 there is a quiet switch in focus as well. Jesus again refers to himself as "Son of Man" and when he is questioned about being the "Son of God" he does not deny it.
All of a sudden in these verses Jesus seems to know the future, and has begun acting out a pre-destined sort of play. He told the disciples a chapter or 2 ago how to find the donkey for his entrance into Jerusalem, today he tells them about following the man with the water jug to find the upper room for the Passover Feast, about when he will enjoy wine, about Peter's denial, and about Judas's intended kiss. While I know and am very familiar with all these stories, it has struck me today that Jesus seems to have changed personalities a bit - I don't remember him acting so much like he was following a script in the rest of the book.
I feel like Luke is highlighting his divinity a bit more in this section. And in vv. 69-70 there is a quiet switch in focus as well. Jesus again refers to himself as "Son of Man" and when he is questioned about being the "Son of God" he does not deny it.
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