Last week our Associate Pastor began a series on The Others.
The Others are people that have been marginalized, not only by society in general, but by many Christians and by many Christian churches and/or denominations. Last week we looked at refugees, people fleeing their homelands due to violence, war, and persecution. Around the world there are millions of people that are leaving everything behind in search of safe places for themselves and for their children. They are so desperate for this safety that they are willing to surrender their old familiar way of living to start over in a foreign land.
Much has been made of the caravans of people that journey from Central America to the US southern border. As much as I am saddened by the desperation of the families that have made this difficult journey, I am also appalled by the many US Christians that would deny them the mercy and relief that they seek.
I get the rah rah patriotism and flag waving nationalism, but the Kingdom of God has no physical borders or boundaries. I am weary of and disgusted by the nationalistic approach to Christianity that has become so powerful in the US.
In the Bible, Jesus tells us that we can't have two masters; that we can't serve both God and mammon (wealth as an evil influence or idol). I think he would tell us the same thing about where our true citizenship lies; that we can't idolize our nation above our service to the Kingdom of God. Certainly we can serve our country within the Kingdom, but such service should never be in conflict with our service to God.
If you are a long time follower of Out of My Hat, you already know that I've never been a big fan of God and Country services that are held around Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Veterans' Day, etc. When we gather to worship God, we shouldn't expect him to share that time with anyone else.
I don't want to give the impression that I don't appreciate my citizenship in the US, I do.
But the United States of America is not my religion. Maybe it is time that we all took a good look at what or whom we worship. If country is more important than God, then maybe your god is too small to deserve your worship. If your god marginalizes and hates the same people that you do, maybe your god is of your own making.
Jesus showed that God loves the marginalized people -- the sinners, the tax collectors, the gentiles, the lepers, the lame and physically handicapped. Jesus showed that God is a God without borders.
Shouldn't his followers also be without borders?
Just a thought...
John <><
Sunday, April 28, 2019
Friday, April 26, 2019
It's Friday!
Okay, so the fact that Friday is the last day of the typical work week doesn't have a great meaning for us retired folk, but Fridays are good days for me!
Friday mornings often find me serving breakfast (along with other volunteers from The Venues) to 100+ of our area homeless friends. It really is one of my favorite hours of the week.
Here's a pic from last Sunday's service that shows what The Venues has done in the first quarter of 2019.
Here is another one that shows how some of it breaks down. (click it to big it)
I hope you get the opportunity to help someone today -- maybe just a kind word or a text message to encourage a friend. There will be plenty to bring people down and stress people out. Consider being a moment of calm in someone's hectic day.
Leave a comment and share what you're doing to brighten someone's day!
Smile
God loves you
(but I'm his favorite!)
John <><
Friday mornings often find me serving breakfast (along with other volunteers from The Venues) to 100+ of our area homeless friends. It really is one of my favorite hours of the week.
Here's a pic from last Sunday's service that shows what The Venues has done in the first quarter of 2019.
Here is another one that shows how some of it breaks down. (click it to big it)
I hope you get the opportunity to help someone today -- maybe just a kind word or a text message to encourage a friend. There will be plenty to bring people down and stress people out. Consider being a moment of calm in someone's hectic day.
Leave a comment and share what you're doing to brighten someone's day!
Smile
God loves you
(but I'm his favorite!)
John <><
Thursday, April 25, 2019
Un-organized Religion (again)
It's been a year and a half since I wrote this post on Un-organized Religion. Obviously, I didn't keep up with the regular posts sharing my thoughts on religion, but I've been thinking about it again.
For the past year, I've been worshiping and serving at a church that receives a lot of criticism from most mainstream Christian churches and is often condemned by the more fundamental evangelical churches. I think The Venues brings a little order to un-organized religion without becoming what looks like organized religion. Maybe that's what bothers so many people that are members of one of the many churches (or Christian clubs) that are organized religion -- The Venues doesn't look like them.
A quote from our worship leader says it well -- "The Venues isn't a church for everyone,
... because it's a church for everyone!"
Being inclusive bothers a lot of self-proclaimed loving Christians.
Though not very traditional, The Venues is a non-denominational Christian church that teaches what Jesus teaches. Jesus said that all of the commandments are based on just two of them -- Love God with everything you've got, and Love your neighbor as yourself. More than anything else, teaching the love of God and encouraging us to love like God is the emphasis of the message at The Venues.
The Venues isn't a Christian Club and it doesn't have members or membership requirements. If you are a lover of God and a follower of Jesus, you are welcome to worship and serve with us. Even if you don't know God and feel alone and unloved, come hang out with us. The people that come to The Venues are truly the most loving and caring people that I have ever met.
Most of us have a story. Many have been shunned by other Christian churches. Some have been abandoned by friends and family. It is a pretty unique gathering of people. There are homeless people worshiping alongside of professionals, LBGTQ folks and straight people, and a racial diversity that looks more like our community than most area churches.
One of my favorite quotes about the Christian community is from Dietrich Bonhoeffer:
"Those who love their dream of a Christian community more than they love the Christian community itself become destroyers of that Christian community even though their personal intentions maybe ever so honest, earnest and sacrificial. God hates this wishful dreaming because it makes the dreamer proud and pretentious. Those who dream of this idolized community demand that it be fulfilled by God, by others and by themselves. They enter the community of Christians with their demands set up by their laws, and judge one another and God accordingly. It is not we who build. Christ builds the church. Whoever is mindful to build the church is surely well on the way to destroying it, for he will build a temple to idols without wishing it or knowing it. We must confess, he builds. We must proclaim, he builds. We must pray to him and he will build. We do not know his plan. We cannot see whether he is building or pulling down. It may be that the times which by human standards are the times of collapse are for him the great times of construction. It may be that the times which from a human point are great times for the church are times when it's pulled down,
It is a great comfort when Jesus gives to his church.
You confess, preach, bear witness to me, and I alone will build where it pleases me. Do not meddle in what is not your providence. Do what is given to you, do it well, and you will have done enough... Live together in the forgiveness of your sins. Forgive each other every day from the bottom of your hearts."
Perhaps this is what the founders of The Venues had in mind.
John <><
For the past year, I've been worshiping and serving at a church that receives a lot of criticism from most mainstream Christian churches and is often condemned by the more fundamental evangelical churches. I think The Venues brings a little order to un-organized religion without becoming what looks like organized religion. Maybe that's what bothers so many people that are members of one of the many churches (or Christian clubs) that are organized religion -- The Venues doesn't look like them.
A quote from our worship leader says it well -- "The Venues isn't a church for everyone,
... because it's a church for everyone!"
Being inclusive bothers a lot of self-proclaimed loving Christians.
Though not very traditional, The Venues is a non-denominational Christian church that teaches what Jesus teaches. Jesus said that all of the commandments are based on just two of them -- Love God with everything you've got, and Love your neighbor as yourself. More than anything else, teaching the love of God and encouraging us to love like God is the emphasis of the message at The Venues.
The Venues isn't a Christian Club and it doesn't have members or membership requirements. If you are a lover of God and a follower of Jesus, you are welcome to worship and serve with us. Even if you don't know God and feel alone and unloved, come hang out with us. The people that come to The Venues are truly the most loving and caring people that I have ever met.
Most of us have a story. Many have been shunned by other Christian churches. Some have been abandoned by friends and family. It is a pretty unique gathering of people. There are homeless people worshiping alongside of professionals, LBGTQ folks and straight people, and a racial diversity that looks more like our community than most area churches.
One of my favorite quotes about the Christian community is from Dietrich Bonhoeffer:
"Those who love their dream of a Christian community more than they love the Christian community itself become destroyers of that Christian community even though their personal intentions maybe ever so honest, earnest and sacrificial. God hates this wishful dreaming because it makes the dreamer proud and pretentious. Those who dream of this idolized community demand that it be fulfilled by God, by others and by themselves. They enter the community of Christians with their demands set up by their laws, and judge one another and God accordingly. It is not we who build. Christ builds the church. Whoever is mindful to build the church is surely well on the way to destroying it, for he will build a temple to idols without wishing it or knowing it. We must confess, he builds. We must proclaim, he builds. We must pray to him and he will build. We do not know his plan. We cannot see whether he is building or pulling down. It may be that the times which by human standards are the times of collapse are for him the great times of construction. It may be that the times which from a human point are great times for the church are times when it's pulled down,
It is a great comfort when Jesus gives to his church.
You confess, preach, bear witness to me, and I alone will build where it pleases me. Do not meddle in what is not your providence. Do what is given to you, do it well, and you will have done enough... Live together in the forgiveness of your sins. Forgive each other every day from the bottom of your hearts."
Perhaps this is what the founders of The Venues had in mind.
John <><
Wednesday, April 24, 2019
Taking care of planet Earth
The rural Midwest is far behind in the move to recycle and be more environmentally aware. There isn't a lot of encouragement to reduce single use plastics or to recycle materials of any kind. There are a few centers where you can take recyclable goods, but no recycling pick-up services that I am aware of.
Admittedly, I'm also far behind in what I should be doing to take care of planet Earth.
I haven't set up recycling bins at home for plastics, glass, or paper. I have reduced my use of single use products, often skipping a drink when I'm out if I didn't bring a reusable cup with me. When I do purchase a beverage out, I try to save the plastic bottle or aluminum can until I'm at a place with a recycle bin. I'm also skipping drinking straws when we eat out (when I think of it).
I've been doing more grocery shopping at places where you bring your own bags. Aldi is one place where I bring a couple of collapsible cardboard boxes and a few paper bags. Lucky's Market uses paper bags and gives a 10 cent rebate for each bag you bring. I generally donate the rebate to one of the charities they have listed (an option they give you). I try to keep a few paper grocery bags in the car in case I make an unplanned stop for a few things. I will sometimes walk to the store if it's just for a few things. (1.75 miles round trip to the closest grocery store)
I really need to do more.
I've also been trying to reduce energy consumption at home. We generally keep the house cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer than most people and will avoiding using the a/c as long as it doesn't get too hot during the day and the nights allow us cool things down. Eventually, the Midwest humidity will play a part in the decision to use the a/c.
Where do you live and what are your options for living a greener lifestyle?
Is there one more small thing you can do to reduce waste?
I'm ashamed of the planet's condition that we are leaving to future generations.
We need to do better.
John <><
Admittedly, I'm also far behind in what I should be doing to take care of planet Earth.
I haven't set up recycling bins at home for plastics, glass, or paper. I have reduced my use of single use products, often skipping a drink when I'm out if I didn't bring a reusable cup with me. When I do purchase a beverage out, I try to save the plastic bottle or aluminum can until I'm at a place with a recycle bin. I'm also skipping drinking straws when we eat out (when I think of it).
I've been doing more grocery shopping at places where you bring your own bags. Aldi is one place where I bring a couple of collapsible cardboard boxes and a few paper bags. Lucky's Market uses paper bags and gives a 10 cent rebate for each bag you bring. I generally donate the rebate to one of the charities they have listed (an option they give you). I try to keep a few paper grocery bags in the car in case I make an unplanned stop for a few things. I will sometimes walk to the store if it's just for a few things. (1.75 miles round trip to the closest grocery store)
I really need to do more.
I've also been trying to reduce energy consumption at home. We generally keep the house cooler in the winter and warmer in the summer than most people and will avoiding using the a/c as long as it doesn't get too hot during the day and the nights allow us cool things down. Eventually, the Midwest humidity will play a part in the decision to use the a/c.
Where do you live and what are your options for living a greener lifestyle?
Is there one more small thing you can do to reduce waste?
I'm ashamed of the planet's condition that we are leaving to future generations.
We need to do better.
John <><
Tuesday, April 23, 2019
It's a small world...
I've let my world get small again.
I think that's a good thing.
Oh, I've kept up with the news -- the redacted Mueller report, the killings in Sri Lanka, the plethora of Democrats entering the 2020 presidential race, the actions of the White House and the inaction of the GOP Senate, but I haven't commented (much) on these things and have specifically avoided commenting where my comments would be unwelcome.
I am enjoying the peace of my small world.
There are several people or small groups of people that are welcome in my small world. Most of them have some connection to The Venues. The great majority of my time is spent alone and that is always a pretty peaceful place.
Alone I can enjoy my morning coffee or an afternoon cigar while reading on the computer or reading a book or just relaxing and enjoying the sounds of nature. I haven't been riding in some time and need to get back to that. I have a couple of trips coming up and the bike would be a grand way to travel.
I've added Comfort Spiral to my list of blogs I frequent. Cloudia posts beautiful, peaceful pictures along with some quotes that are often inspiring. It always adds a moment of calm to the day. You should check it out.
Today I get to expand my small world by venturing out to the grocery store to pick up some necessary household items. It will be a good exercise for me to keep Ugly John contained and muted while dealing with the moms and small children, the other retirees, and people in general. I'll try to have a smile and a kind word for everyone as I exercise patience and remember that I am not in a hurry and likely have more free time than most people I encounter. If I run into you during my outing, hit me up for a smile, hug, or work of encouragement. I'm loading up on them before I head out.
John <><
I think that's a good thing.
Oh, I've kept up with the news -- the redacted Mueller report, the killings in Sri Lanka, the plethora of Democrats entering the 2020 presidential race, the actions of the White House and the inaction of the GOP Senate, but I haven't commented (much) on these things and have specifically avoided commenting where my comments would be unwelcome.
I am enjoying the peace of my small world.
There are several people or small groups of people that are welcome in my small world. Most of them have some connection to The Venues. The great majority of my time is spent alone and that is always a pretty peaceful place.
Alone I can enjoy my morning coffee or an afternoon cigar while reading on the computer or reading a book or just relaxing and enjoying the sounds of nature. I haven't been riding in some time and need to get back to that. I have a couple of trips coming up and the bike would be a grand way to travel.
I've added Comfort Spiral to my list of blogs I frequent. Cloudia posts beautiful, peaceful pictures along with some quotes that are often inspiring. It always adds a moment of calm to the day. You should check it out.
Today I get to expand my small world by venturing out to the grocery store to pick up some necessary household items. It will be a good exercise for me to keep Ugly John contained and muted while dealing with the moms and small children, the other retirees, and people in general. I'll try to have a smile and a kind word for everyone as I exercise patience and remember that I am not in a hurry and likely have more free time than most people I encounter. If I run into you during my outing, hit me up for a smile, hug, or work of encouragement. I'm loading up on them before I head out.
John <><
Wednesday, April 10, 2019
What if ... ?
What would happen if we stopped looking to partisan politics to address our nation's issues and looked to God for answers?
How would we care for immigrants that are fleeing from horrific conditions and seeking a better life for themselves and their families?
How would we deal with a health care system that often bankrupts families or denies treatment or medication based on an ability to pay?
How would we treat people that are different from us in race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.?
How would we address the care of our environment?
What if we stopped listening to those that stand to gain financially or in power and influence and simply looked to science, logic and compassion for answers?
I realize this question is a little different than the one at the beginning of this post, but I believe that God gives us science (it is the study of his creation), logic (the ability to reason and think for ourselves), and compassion (the ability to see suffering).
I also realize that solutions often cost us in the way of time and money. We are a prosperous nation and we have the resources. It really just comes down to whether or not we are willing to spend them to help others or if we will continue to hoard them so that only a few benefit.
Caring for the least of our society and taking care of the planet shouldn't be politically divisive.
It shouldn't be the Democratic thing, nor the Republican thing.
It shouldn't be the Christian thing, nor the non-Christian thing.
It shouldn't be the straight thing, nor the LBGTQ+ thing.
Caring for each other and our world is simply the right thing.
Why can't we do it?
And don't tell me that we all want to do it, but just disagree on how to do it.
That simply isn't true. There are too many self-righteous, pompous, narcissistic people that just want more for themselves at the expense of others. And there are too many people that blindly follow because of political affiliation rather than speaking against what is unjust and speaking for what is right.
I believe we can do this.
I believe we can overcome our divisive political environment and do what is right.
Maybe I'm just too naive.
John <><
How would we care for immigrants that are fleeing from horrific conditions and seeking a better life for themselves and their families?
How would we deal with a health care system that often bankrupts families or denies treatment or medication based on an ability to pay?
How would we treat people that are different from us in race, gender, sexual orientation, etc.?
How would we address the care of our environment?
What if we stopped listening to those that stand to gain financially or in power and influence and simply looked to science, logic and compassion for answers?
I realize this question is a little different than the one at the beginning of this post, but I believe that God gives us science (it is the study of his creation), logic (the ability to reason and think for ourselves), and compassion (the ability to see suffering).
I also realize that solutions often cost us in the way of time and money. We are a prosperous nation and we have the resources. It really just comes down to whether or not we are willing to spend them to help others or if we will continue to hoard them so that only a few benefit.
Caring for the least of our society and taking care of the planet shouldn't be politically divisive.
It shouldn't be the Democratic thing, nor the Republican thing.
It shouldn't be the Christian thing, nor the non-Christian thing.
It shouldn't be the straight thing, nor the LBGTQ+ thing.
Caring for each other and our world is simply the right thing.
Why can't we do it?
And don't tell me that we all want to do it, but just disagree on how to do it.
That simply isn't true. There are too many self-righteous, pompous, narcissistic people that just want more for themselves at the expense of others. And there are too many people that blindly follow because of political affiliation rather than speaking against what is unjust and speaking for what is right.
I believe we can do this.
I believe we can overcome our divisive political environment and do what is right.
Maybe I'm just too naive.
John <><
Tuesday, April 09, 2019
How do you get to heaven from your church?
I don't think that you can use Google Maps to get to heaven, but if you could -- Google would need to know where you are before it could plan your route. This isn't something that we take into consideration as we share the Good News. We assume that everyone is starting at the same place and traveling the same road and will follow the one way to get to Jesus. We have a one-size-fits-all kind of mentality when it comes to our religious beliefs.
Jesus met people where they were and guided them along The Way. We should probably consider a similar approach. If we approach an atheist with "You need Jesus or you'll burn in hell," you probably won't have a lot of success. He doesn't believe in hell and he doesn't know Jesus. Would you follow someone that you don't know and trust?
There are two similar stories found in the Bible about encounters where Jesus is asked, "What must I do to have eternal life?" It's a little weird that Jesus doesn't give the same answer. One person is well versed in Hebrew law and so Jesus responds with, "You're a lawyer. What does the Law say? How do you read it?"
The man responds, "Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself."
Jesus says, "That's it! Do that and you'll be okay!"
But then the man wants to know, "Who is my neighbor?"
Jesus helps him with the parable of the good Samaritan and teaches him that even people that don't love us back are our neighbors. The man had the head knowledge, but no love for his neighbor. Jesus was telling him, "You know the right answers, but you need to learn to love."
The second man was a rich young man that asked Jesus the same question. Jesus said, "Obey the commandments."
The rich man asked, "Which ones?"
Jesus just named a few of the Big 10, "Don't murder. Don't commit adultery. Don't steal or lie. Honor your father and mother."
"I've done all of that since my youth," the man replied. "Is there anything else?"
Jesus told him his stuff was getting in between him and eternity. The man loved his wealth more than he loved God and more than he loved others. Jesus told him that he needed to sell all of his stuff and give the money to the poor. And then -- follow Jesus.
What is the most important thing in your life?
Knowledge?
Material possessions?
Power or influence?
Family?
Country?
If anything is more important than your love for God; if anything is more important than your love for others -- How would Jesus answer you?
Jesus didn't tell either man that he had to give his heart to him. Jesus didn't say, "You have to trust me as your Savior."
Jesus answered each man in a way that recognized where they were in their understanding of God and guided them toward the path that would get them to where they wanted to go.
Maybe we need to find out where people are before we try to shortcut them towards heaven.
How do we get to heaven from where we are?
I'm working on it. I'm following this guide named Jesus. If you want to walk with me, come along. I'd be happy for the company.
If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together. --African proverb
John <><
Jesus met people where they were and guided them along The Way. We should probably consider a similar approach. If we approach an atheist with "You need Jesus or you'll burn in hell," you probably won't have a lot of success. He doesn't believe in hell and he doesn't know Jesus. Would you follow someone that you don't know and trust?
There are two similar stories found in the Bible about encounters where Jesus is asked, "What must I do to have eternal life?" It's a little weird that Jesus doesn't give the same answer. One person is well versed in Hebrew law and so Jesus responds with, "You're a lawyer. What does the Law say? How do you read it?"
The man responds, "Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself."
Jesus says, "That's it! Do that and you'll be okay!"
But then the man wants to know, "Who is my neighbor?"
Jesus helps him with the parable of the good Samaritan and teaches him that even people that don't love us back are our neighbors. The man had the head knowledge, but no love for his neighbor. Jesus was telling him, "You know the right answers, but you need to learn to love."
The second man was a rich young man that asked Jesus the same question. Jesus said, "Obey the commandments."
The rich man asked, "Which ones?"
Jesus just named a few of the Big 10, "Don't murder. Don't commit adultery. Don't steal or lie. Honor your father and mother."
"I've done all of that since my youth," the man replied. "Is there anything else?"
Jesus told him his stuff was getting in between him and eternity. The man loved his wealth more than he loved God and more than he loved others. Jesus told him that he needed to sell all of his stuff and give the money to the poor. And then -- follow Jesus.
What is the most important thing in your life?
Knowledge?
Material possessions?
Power or influence?
Family?
Country?
If anything is more important than your love for God; if anything is more important than your love for others -- How would Jesus answer you?
Jesus didn't tell either man that he had to give his heart to him. Jesus didn't say, "You have to trust me as your Savior."
Jesus answered each man in a way that recognized where they were in their understanding of God and guided them toward the path that would get them to where they wanted to go.
Maybe we need to find out where people are before we try to shortcut them towards heaven.
How do we get to heaven from where we are?
I'm working on it. I'm following this guide named Jesus. If you want to walk with me, come along. I'd be happy for the company.
If you want to go fast, go alone.
If you want to go far, go together. --African proverb
John <><
Monday, April 08, 2019
Un-retirement?
So I did a thing yesterday evening.
I met with the deacons of a local church about serving as an interim pastor for their church. I also sent references to a second local area church that inquired about my availability to serve as an interim pastor.
I'm not sure of how that worked out that two different churches decided to make contact with me at this time. I took the Missouri Baptist course on transitional pastoring about five years ago and haven't received any contact until now -- two churches within a week of each other.
I have my doubts that anything will really happen. I have never pastored a church and was advised by the state that churches want former pastors to act as transitional pastors. I've decided to be very upfront about my status and about telling why we left our previous church. I'm also very bold about my approach to sharing the Good News that God loves you and Jesus died for you.
And that "you" is an all inclusive you!
We shall see...
John <><
I met with the deacons of a local church about serving as an interim pastor for their church. I also sent references to a second local area church that inquired about my availability to serve as an interim pastor.
I'm not sure of how that worked out that two different churches decided to make contact with me at this time. I took the Missouri Baptist course on transitional pastoring about five years ago and haven't received any contact until now -- two churches within a week of each other.
I have my doubts that anything will really happen. I have never pastored a church and was advised by the state that churches want former pastors to act as transitional pastors. I've decided to be very upfront about my status and about telling why we left our previous church. I'm also very bold about my approach to sharing the Good News that God loves you and Jesus died for you.
And that "you" is an all inclusive you!
We shall see...
John <><
Sunday, April 07, 2019
Few Answers; More Questions
One would think that reading through the Bible (again) would give answers to life's big questions.
Not long ago, I wrote about reading the Bible with fresh eyes and trying to understand it as a new reader might. It is difficult to set aside old biases and teachings, but a fresh approach and checking out old stories to learn something for myself is ... well, refreshing.
But rather than finding answers, it seems that I'm coming up with more questions.
For example:
The other day I was reading about Jesus on the cross. In Luke's account (Chapter 23), Jesus says from the cross, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."
My first question is -- Who is them?
Is it the Roman soldiers that were following orders as they crucified him?
Maybe the priestly council that brought about the judgment?
Or was it the crowd that yelled "Crucify him" over and over again?
Was it everyone?
Maybe even all of humanity?
The second question is -- Are they forgiven and therefore in heaven?
This brings about a very serious matter. Everything I've been taught about claiming Jesus as Savior says that we need to know that we've sinned (they didn't), we need to acknowledge Jesus as Lord (again, they didn't), and we need to ask for forgiveness (again, they did not)!
Mind blown!
Could it be that God's grace and forgiveness goes so far beyond what I can imagine that I've (we've) got this whole salvation thing wrong? What if it isn't as simple as ABC (Admit. Believe. Confess.)? What if it's simpler?
What if Jesus came to show us just how great God's love is and the only way that he could do that is to forgive us even when we haven't asked for it and don't deserve it?
What if we are forgiven simply because God loves us and delights in forgiving us and Jesus came to demonstrate that love so that we could love others in the same way?
Romans 5:8 says that God demonstrates his love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
I'm not suggesting that you take my word for this way of thinking. I am suggesting that you read the Bible for yourself and try to figure out what God is trying to tell us. The lessons that I see over and over are that we are to love God the best way we can, and love our neighbors as ourselves.
What if God's love is enough?
Just wondering...
John <><
Not long ago, I wrote about reading the Bible with fresh eyes and trying to understand it as a new reader might. It is difficult to set aside old biases and teachings, but a fresh approach and checking out old stories to learn something for myself is ... well, refreshing.
But rather than finding answers, it seems that I'm coming up with more questions.
For example:
The other day I was reading about Jesus on the cross. In Luke's account (Chapter 23), Jesus says from the cross, "Father forgive them for they know not what they do."
My first question is -- Who is them?
Is it the Roman soldiers that were following orders as they crucified him?
Maybe the priestly council that brought about the judgment?
Or was it the crowd that yelled "Crucify him" over and over again?
Was it everyone?
Maybe even all of humanity?
The second question is -- Are they forgiven and therefore in heaven?
This brings about a very serious matter. Everything I've been taught about claiming Jesus as Savior says that we need to know that we've sinned (they didn't), we need to acknowledge Jesus as Lord (again, they didn't), and we need to ask for forgiveness (again, they did not)!
Mind blown!
Could it be that God's grace and forgiveness goes so far beyond what I can imagine that I've (we've) got this whole salvation thing wrong? What if it isn't as simple as ABC (Admit. Believe. Confess.)? What if it's simpler?
What if Jesus came to show us just how great God's love is and the only way that he could do that is to forgive us even when we haven't asked for it and don't deserve it?
What if we are forgiven simply because God loves us and delights in forgiving us and Jesus came to demonstrate that love so that we could love others in the same way?
Romans 5:8 says that God demonstrates his love for us in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.
I'm not suggesting that you take my word for this way of thinking. I am suggesting that you read the Bible for yourself and try to figure out what God is trying to tell us. The lessons that I see over and over are that we are to love God the best way we can, and love our neighbors as ourselves.
What if God's love is enough?
Just wondering...
John <><
Thursday, April 04, 2019
Coffee time, Quiet time
It's not exactly my usual coffee and quiet time this morning. It's cleaning day so I generally leave the house when our friend that cleans comes over. I'm enjoying my usual at Starbucks and tapping into their wifi to blog and people watch. I was able to secure a corner seat with an outlet nearby if I need it. There is quiet a bit of ambient noise so I have my earbuds in and the Classical music for studying channel playing on Pandora.
A couple of small groups have had morning meetings and gone. There are a few students with coffee, computers, and books. And there are a few pairs of people just meeting over coffee. There are only two creepy guys that are sitting alone with computers out and occasionally looking around to see what is going on. One old guy with coffee and a real book. He doesn't even have a phone out or anything electronic. I'm a little suspicious and keeping an eye on him. The drive through is a steady stream of vehicles as people get their morning go juice on the way to work or where ever it is their vehicles are taking them.
I'm glad to have the revival over so that I can slip back into full on retirement mode. Today I will meet with our associate pastor before he moves on to the Seattle area to take over a church plant there. Then our small group is meeting for dinner to say goodbye to one of our own as she prepares to move to Arkansas. I'll miss Downtown Venues tonight, but will still get to meet with some Venues people, so life is good.
I have a few calls/letters to respond to on transitional pastoring. Although I have never felt called to a full time, permanent pastoring position, I took the transitional course to be able to serve churches as they may need help in transitioning between full time pastors. I'm no longer certain that is a good fit for me and will be honest in my assessment as I talk to churches.
Although revivals are becoming less of a thing in today's evangelical world, I received some good feedback as I was finishing up last night in Richland, MO. It was encouraging to hear that some were accepting the challenges of the week and being more open to sharing their experiences with God and living out his love for others. It is always refreshing to see that there are followers that casually wear the label of evangelical christian and are simple lovers of Jesus and working on following him as they go about their lives.
Today will be an easy day to recharge. I'll take a long walk this morning, run a few errands and then meet with friends. The Cardinals have postponed the Opening Day activities until tomorrow, so I won't have to miss it as I am busy being social this afternoon.
I hope that you will feel loved today.
I hope that you will share your love today.
Be well,
John <><
A couple of small groups have had morning meetings and gone. There are a few students with coffee, computers, and books. And there are a few pairs of people just meeting over coffee. There are only two creepy guys that are sitting alone with computers out and occasionally looking around to see what is going on. One old guy with coffee and a real book. He doesn't even have a phone out or anything electronic. I'm a little suspicious and keeping an eye on him. The drive through is a steady stream of vehicles as people get their morning go juice on the way to work or where ever it is their vehicles are taking them.
I'm glad to have the revival over so that I can slip back into full on retirement mode. Today I will meet with our associate pastor before he moves on to the Seattle area to take over a church plant there. Then our small group is meeting for dinner to say goodbye to one of our own as she prepares to move to Arkansas. I'll miss Downtown Venues tonight, but will still get to meet with some Venues people, so life is good.
I have a few calls/letters to respond to on transitional pastoring. Although I have never felt called to a full time, permanent pastoring position, I took the transitional course to be able to serve churches as they may need help in transitioning between full time pastors. I'm no longer certain that is a good fit for me and will be honest in my assessment as I talk to churches.
Although revivals are becoming less of a thing in today's evangelical world, I received some good feedback as I was finishing up last night in Richland, MO. It was encouraging to hear that some were accepting the challenges of the week and being more open to sharing their experiences with God and living out his love for others. It is always refreshing to see that there are followers that casually wear the label of evangelical christian and are simple lovers of Jesus and working on following him as they go about their lives.
Today will be an easy day to recharge. I'll take a long walk this morning, run a few errands and then meet with friends. The Cardinals have postponed the Opening Day activities until tomorrow, so I won't have to miss it as I am busy being social this afternoon.
I hope that you will feel loved today.
I hope that you will share your love today.
Be well,
John <><
Wednesday, April 03, 2019
Life: another way of preaching
I've been out of touch for the past week or so. Since Sunday (and ending today) I've been on the road for a few hours as I travel to Richland MO for a short revival. Last week I spent time preparing for this weeks messages, so it has been more than a week since I've posted.
In the past year, I've seen my own professional ministry decline a little. I have a feeling that will continue to be the case. It seems good to share messages that encourage lay ministries as that is also where I seem to be headed. As I shared stories from the Bible this week, I was reminded of how easily Jesus shared the Good News -- he shared it as he lived it! I was also reminded of my own, simple, real life experiences that touched people with love and encouragement.
Even as I sometimes feel that I have have fewer opportunities to preach and teach The Word, I still get calls from unexpected places and in unexpected ways. Retirement from the air traffic gig has certainly given me more freedom to examine my future ministry role. I will probably end up just being another follower of Jesus that goes to a church on Sundays and does his best to live out the teachings of Jesus throughout the week. As much as I enjoy preaching from the pulpit or teaching in a classroom, I think the simple day-to-day acts of love and encouragement are where the gospel is best shared. I have heard from several people about words or actions that greatly encouraged them along the way; things I said or did without purposely trying to encourage them. Often, I've heard about it long after the moment passed.
It's a good reminder that what we say and do matters. It may be years before we are made aware of the impact of our deeds (or we may never know), so be aware of the power of your words today.
Be loving and kind.
Be merciful and full of grace.
Be Jesus to those you meet.
John <><
In the past year, I've seen my own professional ministry decline a little. I have a feeling that will continue to be the case. It seems good to share messages that encourage lay ministries as that is also where I seem to be headed. As I shared stories from the Bible this week, I was reminded of how easily Jesus shared the Good News -- he shared it as he lived it! I was also reminded of my own, simple, real life experiences that touched people with love and encouragement.
Even as I sometimes feel that I have have fewer opportunities to preach and teach The Word, I still get calls from unexpected places and in unexpected ways. Retirement from the air traffic gig has certainly given me more freedom to examine my future ministry role. I will probably end up just being another follower of Jesus that goes to a church on Sundays and does his best to live out the teachings of Jesus throughout the week. As much as I enjoy preaching from the pulpit or teaching in a classroom, I think the simple day-to-day acts of love and encouragement are where the gospel is best shared. I have heard from several people about words or actions that greatly encouraged them along the way; things I said or did without purposely trying to encourage them. Often, I've heard about it long after the moment passed.
It's a good reminder that what we say and do matters. It may be years before we are made aware of the impact of our deeds (or we may never know), so be aware of the power of your words today.
Be loving and kind.
Be merciful and full of grace.
Be Jesus to those you meet.
John <><
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