“Daddy Cuddles”

My grandson Owen's words were clear, through the sobs at 3 a.m. “Daddy, cuddle me! Daddy, cuddle me! DADDY, cuddle me!”. I don’t quite know what was going on for him at that early hour. But certainly Owen was wide awake, something wasn’t quite right and Owen didn’t want anything else but to have some time with his Daddy and the comfort of his father’s arms wrapped snugly around him. It was one of those moments when Momma wouldn’t do and neither would his grandparents (though I must confess that I didn’t budge from the warm cuddles of my bed and blankets).

(This is Owen on a happier day!)

The message I got through the walls and through the tears was that only Daddy could resolve this situation.

As I lay there, in a half-awake, half-asleep stupor, it occurred to me that I’ve faced a lot of situations in my life that only my Heavenly Father could solve. I’ve walked paths (and erred and strayed from paths) that needed “Daddy cuddles” to get me through. I’ve found myself in times that were fearful and uncomfortable where I needed the solution of the power of the Almighty “Daddy” to clarify and make right. I’ve been in those situations where I’ve realized (sometimes late at night or late in the process) that I couldn’t take care of it myself and that I really needed to turn it over to God. There have been times when things weren’t right and only the loving arms of an eternal God could bring the peace that I was so desperately seeking.

So, I’m thinking, I need to recognize, as Owen does, the wonderful grace of “Daddy cuddles” and the power and promise of God’s loving arms that embrace me every moment of my life in His grace!

“Is the Christmas Spirit Gone?”

“THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT WAS GONE FOR ANOTHER YEAR!!” the Christmas letter said. Right there in black and white, right after the line that noted the “un-decorating” of the house and just before the line that noted, “(This) Christmas won’t go down as one of the most memorable.”

Now, just what did it mean, “Christmas spirit gone for another year?”

Could it mean that
The spirit of giving had already been replaced with selfishness and greed?
The adornments were gone, but faith lived on?
The images of Santa and the Christ child had been replaced with the more familiar plants, centerpieces, coasters and candles?
The family has put on masks and managed to fake it through the obligatory gatherings not to speak to each other for another year?
The birth of God’s Son really hasn’t made a bit of difference in life?
The celebration of Christmas was o much bother and fuss it is good to be done with it for a while?

Or could it be an innocent passing remark
That marks the packing up of the decorations and has no meaning beyond that?

Oh, how I hope that the Christmas Spirit isn’t gone for another year,
Not to be brought out again
Until Wal-Mart or Target begin to say that it is time to bring it out again
Or until we begin to have our greed turned on again as we seek presents and bigger and better toys.
Or until, as if by some magic, our grumpy, sad faced critical attitudes are transformed to something more palatable to those around us.

Oh, how I hope
That the renewal of the Spirit of God, among us in the gift of Jesus our Savior, is not wasted in our “putting away the Christmas Spirit.”
That the birth of God in our midst, love showered upon us, has birthed in us new attitudes, new priorities, and new images of what we are as God’s children in this world.
That the Spirit of Christmas can transform our lives every day, all year long.
That we can be generous and warm in our response to the needs of others.
That we can see God’s love shared in all things in our lives!!

Please, oh please, when you pack away the decorations and the tinsel leave the Christmas Sprit unpacked so that this Child of God can change your life daily and through out the whole year.

"Three Bullets"

This one has been around a while, but it is worth making the rounds again for reflection.

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Three Bullets
There once was a man who had nothing for his family to eat. He had an old rifle and three bullets. So, he decided that he would go out hunting and kill some wild game for dinner.
As he went down the road, he saw a rabbit. He shot at the rabbit and missed it. The rabbit ran away. They he saw a squirrel and fired a shot at the squirrel and missed it. The squirrel disappeared into a hole in a cottonwood tree. As he went further, he saw a large wild “tom” turkey in the tree, but he had only one bullet remaining.
A voice spoke to him and said, “Pray first, aim high and stay focused. However, at the same time, he saw a deer that was a better ill. He brought the gun down and aimed at the deer. But then he saw a rattlesnake between his legs about to bit him, so he naturally brought the gun down further to shoot the rattlesnake.
Still, the voice said again, “I said, 'Pray, aim high and stay focused.'”
So, the man decided to listen to God’s voice. He prayed, then aimed the gun high up in the tree and shot the wild turkey. The bullet bounced off the turkey and killed the deer. The handle fell off the gun and hit the snake in the head and killed it. And, when the gun had gone off, it knocked him into a pond. When he stood up to look around, he had fish in all of his pockets, a dead deer and a turkey to east for his family.
The snake (satan) was dead simply because the man listened to God.
Moral of this story:
Pray first before you do anything, aim and shoot high in your goals and stay focused on God. Never let others discouraged you concerning your past. The past is exactly that, ‘the past.” Live every day one day at a time and remember that only God knows our future and God is there to help you bear every part of that future. Do not look to others for your blessings, but look to the doors that only God has prepared in advance for you in your favor. Wait, be still and patient; keep God first and everything else will follow.
“Seek ye first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these things will be added unto you.”

"If You Look for me at Christmas!"

This inspirational piece from a card I received earlier this week. The human author is not identified.

If you look for Me at Christmas
you won’t need a special star—
I’m no longer just in Bethlehem,
I’m right here where you are.

You may not be aware of Me
Amid the celebrations –
You’ll have to look beyond the stores
And all the decorations.
But if you take a moment
From your list of things to do
And listen to your heart, you’ll find
I’m waiting there for you.
You’re the one I want to be with,
You’re the reason that I came,
And you’ll find Me in the stillness
As I’m whispering your name.
Love
Jesus

"Christmas From Jesus' Perspective"

The Christian singer, Matthew West, began to think about the idea of what Jesus must have thought when he was asked to come to earth, leaving paradise with its streets of gold, leaving the perfection of his Father’s Kingdom to come to the chaos of earth. It is an interesting line of thought since we probably never ponder the idea of Christmas from Jesus’ perspective.

Matthew West wrote a song about Christmas from Jesus’ perspective. It is called “Leaving Heaven” and it is on his “The Heart of Christmas” album.
Here are the lyrics:

“Leaving Heaven”
Well, it’s been real nice living way up here
In paradise, over the atmosphere
But I can’t stay long, gotta make my way
I’m leaving Heaven today

You see the world is dark and it needs a light
I’m gonna hang a star in the eastern sky
So everybody’s gonna know where I touch down
I’m leaving Heaven right now

I’m gonna walk around that broken Earth
Trading in these streets of gold
So if you ever wonder how much you’re worth
You should know
That you’re the reason why I’m leaving Heaven

Ain’t gonna be no kingdom, ain’t gonna be no crown
Just a little old manger, in a little old town
But it’ll do just fine for this humble King
I’m leaving Heaven let all the angels sing

I’m gonna walk around that broken Earth
Trading in these streets of gold
So if you ever wonder how much you’re worth
You should know
You’re the reason why I’m leaving Heaven

And when my time comes to an end
I’ll lay down my life like a truest friend
And when I get back home, I’m gonna make some room
So, don’t you worry, ‘cause I’m coming back for you

And you will say goodbye to that broken Earth
You’re gonna walk on streets of gold
And if you ever wonder what my love is worth
Well you should know
That I’m the reason you’ll be seeing Heaven
Oh, you’re the reason why I’m leaving Heaven
I’m leaving Heaven

"Jesus in our Box??"

I've had the chance to spend a little time in line at the postal counter in my supermarket. I'm a "people watcher" by nature so I've had "fun" looking at the variety of packages people carry to the counter. Every size and shape to be mailed off to distant friends and relatives.

I noticed more than one customer who had so over stuffed their mailing boxes that they were bulged and bursting at the seams. I could only hope that the packing tape would hold until they reached their appointed destinations.

I got to thinking that this is the same way that people in Jesus time handled Jesus. They had "boxes" of specific shapes and sizes into which they were trying to "fit" the Messiah. They had "boxes" of particular configurations into which they tired to fit Jesus. "Messiah" didn't "fit." Jesus didn't "fit." Jesus was not a king, but an infant born out of wedlock. He came from a simple family to the back woods areas of Galilee. He hung out with the "lower class" and spent his time rubbing elbows with "sinners." For those who didn't believe, Jesus just didn't fit their definition, their "box."

I'm sorry to say that we, in 2011, are no different. We have our own expectations of Jesus (and of God). We expect prayers to be answered, to be comfortable and secure, to be "successful" and to have a certain kind of life. We expect God to be there when we "need" God, but we are not bothered by ignoring God at other times in our lives, times when the blessings are flowing beyond our need. When God doesn't "fit" out box, our expectations or our image, we are quick to doubt -- to doubt God and God's presence, power and providing in our lives.

Jesus started out His life in a manner that says God doesn't fit our expectations. God won't fit into our "boxes." Jesus came to help us know that outside the box, bigger than our expectations and in ways we can never imagine, God leads us to life and salvation. God fills every promise. God splits the seams of expectations to bring forgiveness, renewal and redemption.

In these waning days of Advent watching, God is appearing. Be ready. Have your eyes open. Expect God in new ways in your life, in your heart.

"A Christmas Message"

Here is the Christmas Message shared by ELCA Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson. I found it worth posting for my readers.

For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation to all (Titus 2:11).

Yes In this world where God creates with deep
beauty and profound mystery.
In this world where so many yearn for
God's healing and peace.
In this world where some have thought God has forsaken us:

Yes Here, in this world, the grace of God has appeared.

Not just in this world but for you.

Yes For you, weary from trying to meet the
expectations of others.
For you, worrying about an uncertain future.
For you, wondering if you are worthy.

Yes For you, the grace of God has appeared,
bringing salvation.

Not just for you but for all.

Yes For all, salvation has come in the wonder of
God in mercy bending low to meet us
in our humanity.
In the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection.
In the power and promise
of the gospel's proclamation,
God's goodness and loving-kindness has appeared
in the Savior Jesus.

So with angelic messengers and witnessing shepherds,
we raise our voices:

"Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace among those whom he favors."

"My 'Person of the Year'!"

"Time" magazine announced their "Person of the Year" today. As you've heard/seen/read the person is simply "The Protester". From what little I've seen there is some protest about "The Protester", but that's a reflection for another time.

What I was thinking about was my "Person of the Year." You see, if I'm naming my "Person of the Year" this year, it would be "The Friend". If I ran a magazine, I'd put "The Friend" on the front cover under the banner "Person of the Year."

I'd name "The Friend" because it has been my friends, those who stick by closer even than some relatives, who have been my support and encouragement this year. It has been "The Friend" who made this year a bit smoother, a bit more "successful" and a bit more enjoyable by calling with words of encouragement, texting words of grace, e-mailing invitations to lunch and just stopping in to say "How are you doing".

You see, this year has been one (not the only one in my life to be sure, but one) in which I've had the privilege of living out my faith and confidence in God in profound and special ways. I've had the opportunity to live what I've preached for almost 35 years, that is to trust that "God is faithful!" I've been tugged and pulled this way and that by the world, but God has been faithful, God's blessings clear, God's grace sufficient and God's power mighty. Most often, the ministry of God's grace has come through the friends and close family who have shared the journey with me. God's faithfulness has been made alive by those who have responded to God's promptings to be instruments of love and grace, of encouragement and support.

So here's to you, "Friend". You're "The Person of the Year" as far as I'm concerned. There could be no finer example of one who is making this world a little more loving and kind and the journey a little easier by living God's love in the important relationship of being a good friend.

“Advent Waiting!!"

Waiting seems to be, well,
Just a waste of time.
We, in fact, call it “killing time”.

Waiting can be fidgeting and pacing.
Twiddling thumbs or mindless daydreaming.

Waiting can be terribly difficult and uncomfortable.
Or it can be a time of unease and nervousness.

None of this, though, is “Advent waiting.”
Advent waiting is different.

Advent waiting is making a hole in the business of life for God to fill.
Advent waiting is creating a spirit of anticipation for God to act.

Advent waiting is like sitting on the porch watching the road (this is a country image) for the first signs of dust indicating that Grandma and Grandpa are almost there.

Advent waiting is like sitting in the tree stand watching for the trophy buck to finally make his way out of the woods.

Advent waiting is like waiting for the last kernel of corn to pop so I can “dig in”.

Advent waiting is like waiting for the first bubbles of boiling water so the macaroni can go in.

Advent waiting is different than just waiting.
Advent waiting is the anticipation of God’s new and renewed action in our lives.
Advent waiting is creating a new space for God.
Advent waiting is giving God space to enter, to fill and in which to act.

Advent waiting is creative, focused, “making time” with God. For God.

Waiting, Advent waiting, is expecting
And praying . . . .

“Come Lord Jesus, come quickly.”

Written
While “waiting”,
Advent waiting!

"Bibs or Aprons? "

~Author Unknown~
================
(Offered with the disclaimer that the “bib” image certainly doesn’t fit for many who, for one reason or another, aren’t able to control their eating needs and/or habits. The image is offered as a comparative image only.)

I recently visited a fast-growing church in Minnesota to learn from their staff. It was a privilege to witness their passion for doing high quality ministry in Jesus' name. I left with some new insights and renewed passion for the Gospel.

One of the phrases that I heard while I was there was, "We want our members to wear aprons, not bibs." Here's what they meant:

Bibs are for people who only want to be fed.
Bibs are for those who are not yet ready or willing to feed themselves.
Bibs are for those who are more interested in being served than in serving.
Bibs are for those who insist that the church exists for them and their needs.
Bibs are for babes in the faith, those who haven't caught God's vision for the church, or those who are not yet of the faith.

Aprons are for those who have a heart to serve others in Jesus' name.
Aprons are for those who know that they are the church.
Aprons are for those who don't mind getting their hands dirty.
Aprons are for those who take the time daily to feed their spiritual hunger.
Aprons are for those who are growing in faith, and hunger to help others grow.

Church growth consultant, Win Arn, interviewed thousands of Christians in America several years ago and asked them, what they though the church existed for. Eighty-eight percent said, "The church exists to serve my needs and the needs of my family." In other words, 88% of Christians in America are still wearing bibs.

On the night when he was betrayed, just hours before he was crucified, the very Son of God took off his outer garments, wrapped a towel around his waist, and washed his disciples' feet. When he was done he said, "I have just given you an example to follow." In other words, Jesus called his disciples to wear aprons, not bibs.

In Matthew, Jesus is recorded as saying, "For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many." He also said, "If you cling to your life, you will lose it; but if you give it up for me, you will find it."

Jesus calls us to wear aprons, not bibs. Which are you wearing?

"For even I, the Son of Man, came here not to be served but to serve others, and to give my life as a ransom for many." Matthew 20:28

Prayer: "Lord Jesus, thank you for feeding me daily with your word. Fill me with your redeeming love. Open my eyes to clearly see the needs of those around me, and then open my hands to serve them. Each day, strengthen me with your Spirit, so that I might choose to wear an apron, not a bib. This I pray in your name. Amen."

"Where's the Line to See Jesus"

Here is the "official music video" of a very moving song by Becky Kelley.

Check it out.

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=OExXItDyWEY&vq=medium

By the way, Becky's father is the pianist.

Thanks for stopping by "Sketchings...

Cruise Ship or Battleship?

The first time I specifically remember a model ship hanging from the rafters of a church was at Grand View College in Des Moines, IA. I had traveled there with a college friend for the “Aebleskiver Festival”. (If you don’t know, an “Aebleskiver” (in Danish, “apple slices”) is a popular Danish pastry, a light, melt-in-your-mouth pancake ball that tastes like a cross between a pancake and a donut.) One of the weekend activities was attending worship in Danish Church.

The first thing I noticed, hanging from the rafters of the church, was a replica of a sailing vessel. Later I learned that this is a widespread custom in Denmark and in churches of Danish origin. It served as a reminder of the ancestral home of many of the U.S. immigrants and, in Denmark (where the life on the sea was central), it was an “offering” of sorts to assure safe voyage for ship and crew.

However, this folk custom coincides with an ancient Christian metaphor which compared the church itself to a ship. Even today we call the main sanctuary of our churches the “nave”, a name derived from the Latin word “navis”, which means ship and the origin of words such as “navy” and “naval”.

The metaphor of the church as a ship has many symbolic connections. We speak of the Christian life as a journey over the sea and we talk about a pilot that guides us. One favorite Christian hymn reads: “Jesus, Savior, pilot me over life’s tempestuous sea.” The ship is not a major Christian symbol but it is an appropriate one.

Now, make this jump with me. If the ship is a Christian symbol, is it more like a “cruise ship” or a “battleship?”

It seems to me that too often we have a “cruise ship” mentality in the Church of Jesus Christ. We approach the church like we do our favorite department store, that is, with a “consumer” mentality. We want to pick and choose what we want and what we’ll share in. We want luxury and glitz. We want to be entertained and made to smile. We want to “go along for the ride.”

It would be more accurate to see the church as a “battleship”, in the truest sense of “nave” (naval). Because, you see, that is exactly what we are called to do, to engage the enemy of our souls with the ultimate power of God in and through the presence of the Holy Spirit. The journey we are on with God is far from a “cruise”. It is a battle, just like those vessels in Danish churches reminded people of the battle against the tempest of the sea and sacrifice given for the freedom to worship God. The mission and ministry of the church today (as it always has been) is to demonstrate God’s power in all corners of the world, society and our lives in order to restore God’s rule on the earth.

The key reason Jesus died on the cross was to restore and redeem that which was lost. The battle is still going on. The battle won’t be won from a cruise ship. It will be won from the battleship where Jesus is the pilot on the journey, through the seas roiled with the tempters power.

So, I pray, “Jesus, Savior, pilot me ....”

"A Line to Ponder"

This line I read today has me thinking. I don't know yet what I'm thinking, but it is something to ponder. The image that comes to my mind is one of a garden. I've given up on a lot of gardens in my life, usually along about mid summer when the ground is dry, the air hot and there isn't much vision for the finished product -- what I mean is that I love the early garden produce like leaf lettuce, radish, green beans.

Anyway, here is the line:

"Nature thrives in places where people give up." (Joyce Sequichie Hifler in "A Cherokee Feast of Days")

I'm still pondering....

Thank you for stopping by today. If you have a picture or a pondering, please post it in the "comments" section. Thank you!

“How Change is Like a ‘Slinky™’”

This is a fun little thing about something we love to hate: change:

1. You have to take it out of the box to have fun with it.
2. It comes in many styles and colors.
3. Somebody has to get it started on its way.
4. Once started, the course it takes is unpredictable.
5. It routinely get study halfway down the stairs and has to be re-launched. Repeat as necessary.
6. It is messy, noisy and chaotic.
7. Before it is launched, it has stored potential energy. When launched, that energy force becomes kinetic energy.
8. Once it begins its journey on one can really control it.
9. It rarely lands where predicted.

"Advent Thoughts"

I just came in from doing some final leaf raking before the final “Yard Waste” pick up day for the season. As I wrapped up the project it was becoming rather dark and quiet in our neighborhood. Things felt empty and barren. It felt that way because it was that way: dark, silent, empty.

Entering the house there was a different feeling. A fullness illuminated by some electric candles (boy are they fun) and the lamp. There were the sounds of people working and the fullness of energy, the energy of life warmed by the protection of four sound walls and a bit of furnace energy.

And, I noticed, the chill on my nose and ears was all the more evident in the warmth of the inside heat. The contrast drew me to appreciate the warmth, the light, the sounds and the energy all the more.

Advent began yesterday. Advent, this strange “churchy” time before Christmas that happens to fall during some of the darkest, chilliest and quietest (in the sense of nature’s winter quiet) days of the year. This Advent is as “long” as Advent can be – four full weeks (not just four Sundays). This Advent, like all Advents, will quickly get busier, more packed, brighter and louder as things gear up before Christmas.

But, what I’m thinking and feeling is that before Christmas I need the emptiness, the darkness and the silence. I need my senses to be ready for the light of Christ and the sounds and fullness of Christmas. I need my senses to be fully ready to experience the Christ anew and in experiencing the Christ to experience that in Him I am being redeemed, recreated, renamed, and reborn.

Tonight I’m thankful for the darkness, silence and stillness that open my senses to deeper awareness of and thankfulness for the wonders of God become flesh in a little baby, Jesus.

May God bless you in this Advent time.

Thanks for dropping by “Sketchings ... “. If you have a favorite Advent tradition or Advent reflection, you are invited to share it in the “comments” section.

"The Joy is in the Journey"

I came across this item that passed my desk at an earlier transition time in my life. It came via my e-mail box in something called “Mountain Wings.” It still speaks to my spirit because, in fact, in life, we don’t reach every destination. Not every hope comes to pass. But along the way look what we find; look at the dances we dance, the love we share and the power of the spirit come alive among us. Look at the joy that is in the journey!

THE HOLE

“Two brothers once decided to dig a deep hole behind their house. As they were working, a couple of other boys stopped by to watch.

“ ’What are you doing?’ asked one of the visitors.

" ’We're going to dig a hole all the way through the earth!’ one of the brothers volunteered excitedly.

“The other boys began to laugh, telling the brothers that digging a hole all the way through the earth was impossible. After a long silence, one of the diggers picked up a jar full of spiders, worms, insects and interesting stones. He removed the lid and showed the wonderful contents to the scoffing visitors. Then he said confidently, ‘Even if we don't dig all the way through the earth, look what we found along the way!’

“Their goal was far too ambitious, but it did cause them to dig. That is what a goal is for, to cause us to move in the direction we have chosen. In other words, to set us to digging!

“But not every goal will be fully achieved. Not every job will end successfully. Not every relationship will endure. Not every hope will come to pass. Not every love will last. Not every endeavor will be completed. Not every dream will be realized. But when you fall short of your aim, perhaps you can say, ‘Yes, but look at what I found along the way! Look at the wonderful things which have come into my life because I tried to do something!’

“It is in the digging that life is lived, and it is the joy in the journey that truly matters!”

Author unknown

“What if ...?”

With apologies to several current postings around the internet, I was led to this little musing about treating our Bibles like we treat our cell phones.

What if we carried our Bible around all the time and couldn’t let it be out of reach?

What if there were situations that would cause us to say, “I wonder where I left my Bible?”

What if we were constantly checking our messages?

What if we referred to it several times a day?

What if we searched it for important information?

What if we used it to find directions?

What if we used it in the case of emergency or perceived emergency?

What if we communicated regularly with its “contact list”?

What if we were constantly upgrading to the latest version?

What if we kept it charged and “powered up”?

What if stores had to put up signs, “No Bible Reading Allowed”?

What if laws had to be enacted because too many people were reading their Bible while driving?

What if we thought we "couldn't live" without being connected?

"Thanksgiving!"

No matter what the day, no matter what the hour it is good for us to give thanks. To remember that everything we have comes from God.

I have just been reading some life stories of other people. Some have so much. Some have so little. It is those who have so little who teach so much. They teach about gratitude. The give perspectives on life. They put things in context.

They moved me to think about the top ten things I'm thankful for. Of course, there are hundreds, but these are today's "Tom's Top Ten"!

1. God and my salvation in Jesus Christ.
2. The gift of life and health.
3. My faith and its power to sustain me every day.
4. The love and support of a faithful life partner.
5. My children and grand-child.
6. My Dad.
7. Opportunities to share in the greatest joys and greatest sorrows in the lives of others.
8. A cadre of supportive, loving, honest and faithful friends.
9. Freedom.
10. That I'm healthy enough to walk, eat, breathe, think, sleep and feel.

I wonder, what are your top ten? Not just for this Thanksgiving day, but for every day of the year.

Thanks for visiting "Sketchings". I hope you'll comment on several of your top ten "I'm thankful that/for...."

Blessed Thanksgiving!!!

"Directions Home!"

This little piece is one of those things that circulates the “forwarded e-mail list”.

Given that many are “headed home” for this holiday season, I found it a bit fun and reflective for this path we call life.

Directions to Our Father’s House

Make a right onto Believeth Blvd.
Keep straight and go through the green light, which is Jesus Christ.
There, there you must turn onto the bridge of faith, which is over troubled waters.
When you get off the bridge, make a right turn and keep straight.
You are on the “King’s Highway” – heaven bound.
Keep going for three miles: one for the Father, one for the Son and one for the Holy Spirit.
Exit onto Grace Blvd.
Make a right turn onto Gospel Lane.
Keep straight and then make another right on Prayer Road.
CAUTION: DO NOT yield to the traffic on Temptation Ave.
CAUTION: AVOID Sin Street (It is a Dead End).
CAUTION: Pass by Envy Drive and Hate Avenue as well as Hypocrisy Street, Gossiping Lane and Backbiting Blvd.
However, you cannot avoid going down Long Suffering Lane, Persecution Blvd and Trials and Tribulations Ave.
But it is all ok because VICTORY STREET is straight ahead.

"Using What You Have!"

The family was bowling. Christian, a nine year old, seemed to be winning by a large margin. He certainly was beating the older players in the group.

What was obvious was that he was the smaller player in the group. He had a lighter ball, he didn’t weigh very much and he couldn’t hold the ball “correctly” or roll the ball with a lot of force. Yet he was knocking down many pins and rolling an occasional “strike”.

Upon closer observation, Christian had a gently strategy. You see, the “bumpers” (foam rails lowered for more inexperienced bowlers to keep the balls from going into the “gutter”) were down. Christian had figured out how to use the bumpers to his advantage. He would gently roll the ball and let it bounce off the bumpers to knock the pins down. And, he was consistently knocking down more pins that the others in his group.

Christian didn’t have a heavy ball like the others. He didn’t have the strongest body. He didn’t have much experience.

But Christian didn’t focus on what he didn’t have. He focused on what he did have. He used what he did have to be successful in the game.

You know, so often we focus on what we don’t have. Our attention is drawn away from our mission and ministry to envy what someone else has, things (tangible or intangible) that may be “bigger” and supposedly “better” than what we have. In so doing, we fail to see and use the incredible resources that God has given us for our daily life, faith, ministry and mission.

Christian’s lesson for faith is about focusing on the talents and resources God has given us, about looking at our abundance rather than our supposed scarcity and about recognizing that “bigger” isn’t always “better” when it comes to the economy of God’s kingdom.

“It Depends Upon What I’m Looking For”

Sometimes I wonder about what people are searching for. From time to time in my life I find myself searching for the gifts of God’s grace. At other times, I may be searching for more tangible things in support of my life and ministry.

I thought it would be “fun” to see what people are searching for. What we are searching form tells us of our concerns and interest, our values and perspectives.

So, I “Googled” to see what people are “Googling.”

One day a week or so ago, here are the top twenty things people were “Googling”:

1. school closings
2. daylight savings time 2011
3. bernie madoff
4. mark herzlich
5. powerball
6. national grid
7. ruth madoff
8. ct news
9. pumpkin seed recipe
10. generators
11. mark madoff
12. the strangers
13. disturbia
14. matt barnes
15. mona simpson
16. ufc results
17. hines ward
18. day light savings
19. no shave november
20. mcrib

Here’s the list for November 16:
1. sopa
2. white house shooting
3. spear of destiny
4. rambus
5. internet censorship
6. bradley cooper
7. google music
8. matt barnes
9. stop online piracy act
10. protect ip act
11. sexiest man alive 2011
12. jessie james
13. 2013 ford escape
14. green bean casserole
15. elisabeth hasselbeck
16. willis mcgahee
17. black friday sales 2011
18. pabst blue ribbon
19. the descendants
20. cadillac xts

Maybe you’ll get a laugh out of this. I sure did.

But the point is, what we find depends upon what we are looking for.

"God's 'Zero Tolerance' Policy"

There was a time (a long time ago) when I chose a behavior which resulted in getting my mouth “washed out with soap”. Turned out I couldn’t out run my father and he had a bar of “Lava” soap. I couldn’t get the soap out of my mouth quickly enough. I didn’t enjoy at all what went into my mouth on that embarrassing occasion.

What I’ve learned over the years, is that I have to be equally concerned about what comes out of my mouth. I need to be concerned that the words and phrases I utter are wholesome, encouraging and supportive. As I listen to what people say (and write), I’m noticing that there seems to be less and less concern for encouraging, positive conversation. It seems that the “tone” of many conversations (writing too) quickly turns to things that are slanderous, gossipy and accusatory.

God has given some pretty clear directions for what should come out of one’s mouth. He has a “zero tolerance” policy for gossip and slander among his people. Yet, may a disciple has ignored God’s directions.

Here are a few of the things God has to say in this regard:

Proverbs 15: 2: “...the mouths of fools pours forth (more accurately “explodes out”) foolishness.”

Ephesians 4: 29: “Let no corrupt word (“dirty talk”) proceed out of your mouth.”

Ephesians 4: 25: “put away lying ... speak the truth.”

Ephesians 4: 31: “Let all ... clamor and evil speaking be put away from you.” That is no character assassinations.

Leviticus 19:16: “You shall not be a talebearer among your people.” That is to talk idly, foolishly or maliciously to spread rumors (or facts) about another was forbidden by the Leviticus law.

Speaking badly betrays confidences (Proverbs 11:13), separates close friends (Proverbs 16:28; 17:9), shames and saddles you with a bad reputation (Proverbs 25: 9 – 10), and perpetually fuels the embers of a quarrel (Proverbs 26: 20 – 22).

Someone has noted that the words that come out of our mouths are like toothpaste coming out of a tube – once out it can’t be put back in.

I’m still embarrassed about behaving in a way to get soap in my mouth.

These days, though, my attention is focused more on what comes out. It is on guarding my mouth to “build each other up in love”, to “speak the truth in grace”, and to use my words to edify others and honor God.

I do so every mindful of God’s “zero tolerance” policy!!

Living Trees and Branches

Over the weekend I had an occasion to take hike in a deeply wooded forest. It was wonderfully warm with bright sunshine. The trail was deeply carpeted with crunchy fallen oak leaves. There was a slight breeze and a cloudless sky. It was silent and peaceful.

As I hiked along, as I looked around, there was evidence of a summer storm. Trees uprooted, branches fallen and the general “litter” that comes after a storm.

It took me a while to move my focus from the dead fallen branches and trees to the trees that were still standing tall, to the branches that still reached out to the sky, to the limbs that still held onto a few colorful fall leaves.

It took me even a while longer to realize that the storms had been an agent of clearing, or cleaning. The dead trees and branches were easily conquered by the storm, by the winds of nature. Those trees and branches that had already let go of life were brought down to the ground. Those trees and branches that had no root of life caved to the pressures of the storm.

But, the trees and branches that had life, that were deeply rooted in the earth were able to survive, to hang on and to probably strengthen themselves to face future storms.

The images from my hike have spiritual applications as well. We encounter storms in our lives. There are challenges and hardships. There are rough spots. The storms of life will clean out that which is dead and worthless. It will topple that which is not firmly and deeply rooted. It will fell patterns of thought and behaviors which are no longer full of life or life giving.

And what remains is what is life giving and deeply rooted. What remains is that which enhances the beauty and interest of life. What remains is what makes me come alive.

Jesus said, “I am the vine, you are the branches.” As a branch I deepen my connections to the power and promise of the Holy Spirit, to the gifts of faith and to the grace of Jesus so that I might be fully alive for the glory of the Kingdom of God.

"God Delights in You!"

I almost missed the article. It contained a picture of a young girl from India holding a certificate showing that she had changed her name. It didn’t seem like much of a story tucked in the corner of an inside page of the newspaper.

But the story is really heart breaking. You see in the rural poor areas of India girls are considered to be a family liability. Boys are viewed as potential heirs, family heads and wage earners. By contrast girls are a “liability” because their families will have to provide a dowry in order to arrange a marriage for them. The result is female fetuses are systematically aborted.

Or, in the western Maharashtra state, where the language is Marathi, many living girls are given the name “Nakusa”, which means “unwanted.”

Can you imagine being a person with the name “unwanted”? Can you imagine the humiliation, the teasing, the negative self image?

The news story I saw highlighted a young woman named “Nakusa” changing her name, the result of a progressive initiative in Satara state to allow girls named “Nakusa” to change their name. They get official documents and school records are changed. Of course, questions still remain. Is the emotional damage already too great? Will they really get a new life in a culture that insists on remembering the old name? Only time will tell.

Consider this: To a people who had suffered countless indignities: "You shall be called by a new name that the mouth of the Lord will give. . . . You shall no more be called Forsaken, and your land shall no more be termed Desolate, but you shall be called My Delight Is in Her, and your land Married, for the Lord delights in you. . . . And as the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall your God rejoice over you" (Isaiah 62:2-4 EST)

Know this: You are loved. You are precious. You are wanted! God has given you his family name. You are his beloved child. God smiles when you dance, and live and love. God’s eye twinkles when he thinks about you.

The gift of God’s family name is not to be taken lightly. Carry it with pride.

November, 2011 Sketchings

“NEW CHAPTERS”

By the time you read this, we will be well into the closing weeks of this chapter of our lives and ministry. We will be well into our community and individual processes of grieving the end of this chapter of life. We will have shed tears, and laughed over precious memories. We will have wished each other well for the time ahead and prayed together for God’s power into the future. But, of course, there will still be other steps before the final words are spoken and the last “farewells” are uttered.

Teresa and I want to express our profound thanks and gratitude for the great honor of walking in ministry with you over these last 6 1 / 2 years. This part of our journey has provided a wonderful time for the growth of our faith. Through you our lives have been richly blessed. You’ve filled our memory bank with golden treasures through ministry, relationships, worship, fellowship and caring. We will always carry you in our hearts and prayers. We will always be thankful to God for this chapter in our lives.

When I am reading a book, I want it to be a “page turner.” That is, I want enough suspense to keep the pages turning, to move me from one chapter to the next. Furthermore, within the suspense I need confidence that the author will continue to develop the plot of the story so that when I read the last page I have a wonderful sense of a complete and whole story.

God is the master author of the story and chapters of human life. God is the master in writing His Story (history) in a way that develops His glory, His grace, and His providence so that in the end it is complete and glorious. God’s story is a “page turner”. There is a fair amount of suspense and intrigue. What will God do next? Sometimes it isn’t clear until a bit later in the story. Sometimes, it takes a while for God to weave a thread of the plot back into the story. But in the end, God’s story is complete and wonderful. And, at the end, we recognize there are many more chapters yet to come.

We, you and I, are standing between chapters in our story, in the story of God’s work in and through our lives. We are here knowing that our God is one who makes things happen. God’s word can bring forth creation. God’s word completes all kinds of things through the lives of people like us. This same God already knows our needs at this point in our stories. The obstacles and barriers we see are not insurmountable to God.

One of the mistakes we humans are prone to make is that we need to have everything in life figured out. We want to know what happens next, we want to know the end of the story. We want to put together a “foolproof” plan that will get us from beginning to ending, no hassle, no problem. But life with God means sitting loose in the saddle with your eye on the ever-changing horizon – looking for hints and clues as to where God wants you to go and what he wants you to do. Life with God means that there is suspense between chapters. Where will this next chapter go?

And here’s one important thought to remember: “God never gives us a task without providing the will and the way to accomplish that task.” He did it with Moses and the Israelites when they entered the Promised Land by providing manna and quails to eat. He did it for Abraham by providing he and Sarah with a son born to them in their old age. Jesus talked about it in parables when he said, “Do not worry. Look at the birds of the air. See how God provides for them. Are you not of more value than they?”

Here’s the deal, as we all start turning the pages into the next chapter of life, ministry, faith and Church, God will not leave us stranded. We will not be left “high and dry”. God will reveal the next step (and all we need to know is the next step). God’s Spirit will empower us with the faith to follow in confidence und God’s leading.

Several have asked what is in store for Teresa and I. Truth is, we aren’t really sure what the next chapter will bring. It is a walk of faith on our parts. Our plans include staying in Omaha so that Teresa can continue to be faithful in her ministry calling with her business. Beyond that, God is working out the details of the next chapter. Teresa and I haven’t ever been at a stage in life where we had the options and freedom to take some time to sort out what ministry God is calling me/us to and how we can best be faithful with the energies and talents God has given. We will do our best to keep you informed.

Blessings as we live between chapters. Blessings as we step in faith to see the “plot” unfold. Blessings! For God is good all the time. All the time God is good!

T. O. M.

Theologian Henri Nouwen has written:

“One of the most challenging tasks of the Christian is to create the space where people can meet each other without fear, share the human pains and joys which transcend their differences and discover each other as belonging to the same human family.”

A Record of "Saves":

A couple of weeks ago, Mariano Rivera (originally from Panama) reached a milestone in baseball history when he broke the all-time baseball “saves” record, getting his 602nd save.

If you’re not familiar with the game of baseball, a save is when the game is turned over to a pitcher called a “closer”. It is when the team is leading near the end of the game and the closer comes in to finish up the last inning or two without allowing the opposing team to go ahead and win. The closer is supposed to “seal the deal” and when he does, he gets a “save.” Rivera now has the all time record.

Now, getting a save might not sound like that hard of a deal. It only means pitching for one, or maybe two, innings. But when the game comes down to the last few outs, every pitch counts, every base runner is a potential score, every score is a potential loss then adrenalin kicks in making the art of being a “closer” a tricky one.

Mariano, however, makes his milestone even more unique with the fact that he usually only uses one particular pitch: the cut fastball, or “cutter.” Batters know what's coming—and they still can't hit it!

Rivera, affectionately known as “Mo” by loyal fans and teammates, has a reputation of being self-effacing, quiet, unassuming and thoughtful. In fact, after being congratulated by his team on the field after Monday's record save, he had to be coaxed back onto the mound so the more than 40,000 fans filling Yankee Stadium could applaud him.

During a post-game interview, when asked if he felt he was the greatest closer in MLB history, Mo replied, “I would never say that. You know me better than that, I would never talk about myself.”

Not to be trite, but the best part is that Rivera knows the One who truly saves. The One Whose record for saves could never be broken!

Mo is a born-again Christian; his pitching glove is reportedly inscribed: “Phil. 4:13.” (“I can do all things through Christ, Who strengthens me”)

In a post-game interview, Mo was asked about the impact of what he's achieved in light of how he grew up; a poor child in Panama. He said, “I couldn't dream about this. It's a tremendous journey. I have to thank God.”

Every week when we confess our sins and receive God’s forgiveness we are reminded that we know the one who “saves”, saves us from the ultimate defeat – sin, death and the power of the devil.

On Brokenness

The concrete contractor was taking a look at her broken up and cracked driveway. She was lamenting the broken state of affairs. The contractor shared this bit of (perhaps obvious) wisdom. “As broken as it is, it still makes a great driveway.”

That sentence could be said about so many things in our lives. As broken as life is, as broken as we are by sin, as broken as the world is, what remains is still something great. We’re blessed by God to live a wonderful life in a wonderful world. We are blessed by God to be partners in God’s work in the broken places. We are blessed with forgiveness so that this life, the only life we have, can be abundant (great!).

So, fill in your own blank: “As broken as it is, it is still a great life, world, job, family, church, school, club, neighborhood --- the list could go on.”

Not that we don’t need to keep on mending the brokenness, certainly that is part of God’s work through our hands. But, at the same time, we need not lose sight of the fact that even in imperfection, what we have is pretty “great” too.

A Student Athlete's Example

Have you herd the story of Josh Ripley?

Josh is a sixteen-year-old junior at Andover (MN) High School. On September 16, 6-foot 5-inch Josh was one of 261 competitors in a 5 K race. About half way through the race, Josh heard a scream and saw another runner, someone he didn’t know, collapsed against a fence and holding a profusely bleeding ankle.

Mark Paulauskas, a 5-foot 5-inch freshman at Lakeville (MN) South High, was the injured athlete.

Here is what Mark said about what happened next: "He just picked me up without saying anything and started carrying me and trying to calm me down. He said, 'It's going to be OK. I'm going to get you to your coaches.' ... I think it's amazing."

Meanwhile, Josh’s own coach was becoming concerned as he tried to figure out why Josh hadn’t passed the halfway mark. When Coach Scott Clark spotted Josh he was “ ... wondering what was going on, why was he so far back. Then I see Josh. He's got the kid in his arms."

Turns out Josh Ripley carried Mark about a quarter mile. He hands him off to his own coaches and family. And then – dead last in the field of runners, Josh resumes his race. In the end he passed about 50 kids to finish 211th out of 261 runners. Without excuse, without disappointment, without explanation, he just finished what he had started, a 5 K foot race.

Teammate Simeon Toronto asked him, “Why did you fall so far behind?” Simeon says, "He just humbly says, 'Oh, I picked up a kid. And I'm like, 'Dude, you just picked up a kid and carried him?' That's incredible!" Then added Toronto: "It was just so typical Josh."

Newspaper reports simply cite this as a wonderful example of sportsmanship. But there is more. What Josh did is core to the very practical faith Josh embraces. Both Mark and Josh, in their accounts of the event, say that Josh prayed over Mark as he ran with him in his arms. He prayed for Mark’s pain to stop and for him to be all right. He even asked Mark’s permission before he started the prayer.

But Josh, who also volunteers for Living Word Christian Center, says he did nothing special. “I’m just thankful to God to let me be there for someone who needed me.”

By the way, Mark's ankle needed 20 stitches to close the gash another runner's spikes accidentally created. There was no deeper damage to ligaments or tendons and Mark should fully recover.

I love this story. Josh is a great example of how God intended us to care for each other, to pray for each other and to do so with no expectation of notice or reward.

Thank you Josh.

Blunders and Barriers to Addressing New Circumstances:

When young Thomas Edison invented the phonograph, he launched a major change in how and when we listen to music. Edison’s light bulb changed our world by lighting the nights. But Edison’s high IQ didn’t prevent him from making a bad decision. Thomas Edison could not imagine a world where AC (alternating current) would be the rule. So he rejected AC as a means of powering both his light bulb and future machines. His choice opened the door for Nikola Tesla (his star employee) to spread the use of electric power across the world. Decades after AC proved itself the world’s best commercial current, Edison kept arguing that his DC idea was better!

Zachary Shore uses this story to capture the major insight in his book, “Blunder: Why Smart People Make Bad Decisions” (New York: Bloomsbury USA, 2008). Edison fell into a cognitive trap — a rigid mind-set that can block smart people from seeing the importance of new facts — and thus, blocks the addressing of new circumstances.

Coeditors Herb Miller, Lyle E. Schaller and Cynthia Woolever expand on this thought in the October, 2011 (Volume 19, Number 1) “The Parish Paper” as they apply “cognitive traps” to local congregations.
I invite you to check out the article, not so much for church things, but for what you can learn about the other aspects of life where in “cognitive traps” limit our thinking.

Here is the link. I can also provide you with a hard copy if you ask. http://web.nebraskasynod.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/October2011.pdf

October 2011 "Sketchings"

“FALL COLORS!!”

In the yard next door, there is a maple tree. It looks like this year it is going to be spectacular with fall color – if we get the right combination of warm days and cool nights and no wind/rain to drop the leaves prematurely. Already, the tree is awash in reds, rusts, yellows, browns and hues of green against the darker green leaves that have not yet been touched with the Master’s paintbrush. Already it is a wonder of beauty in our cul-de-sac.

I happen to be a person who loves the fall colors. (One day I want to find my way to the North East United States during this time of year.)

I think one reason I enjoy fall is that it is symbolic of a faith journey. It is a symbol of the fruits of maturity in faith, a coming to “bloom” from the growth of faith and the work of the Spirit. I know I speak much too simply in this regard. But never-the-less, the full beauty of faith cannot be enjoyed unless one is continually moving toward maturity in Christ.

You see, maturity in Christ is about growth. It is about movement in faith. It is about growing in what has been called “the mark’s of discipleship”: worship, Bible Reading and devotions, prayer, generosity, service and witness (or relationships where we can talk about our faith.)

The problem is, for many, when we come to talk about these disciplines, the reaction is more like that of a person getting a “root canal” than a person who is seeing an invitation to deeper faith, to spiritual growth, to spiritual maturity or to the fullness of life in Jesus.

However, as we commit to the process, embark on the journey and discipline ourselves to draw nourishment from the deep roots of our faith, we find the beauty of God’s handiwork in our lives. We discover the pure joy that comes from being close to Jesus. We display in our lives the beauty of God’s grace and goodness.

I’m excited about the fall season – both outdoors in within our walls. I’m excited about how God is going to paint our world with color and how God is going to paint our lives with grace and peace, forgiveness and His Spirit power. I’m anxious to see what amazing ways God will work in our lives as we live as reflections of His true and wondrous light.

We have been blessed with a wonderful past. We are living in an exciting present. As to the future, it can only be colored with God’s paint brush of expectation and hope as we grow in faith, mature in our mission and ministry and deepen our roots in His Spirit power.

T. O. M.

A Quote from C. S. Lewis:

The Church is the Body of Christ in which members share the common life, complimenting and helping one another. C.S. Lewis

Forgiveness story:

Corrie Tenboom, in her account of her life in Ravensbrook, a German concentration camp for women during WWII, told the story of coming around the corner one day and seeing one of their female guards savagely beating a fellow prisoner. She and her sister, Bonnie, stopped, appalled at what they were seeing. “That poor worm,” said Corrie. “Yes,” replied her sister, “We will have to pray for her forgiveness.” It was then that Corrie realized that while she had been sympathizing for the poor beaten woman, her sister saw the greater tragedy -- the guard who was able to treat a fellow human being in this way.

Years later, long after the war was over, Corrie’s conviction of the truth of her sisters insight was challenged. By this time she was a popular speaker. After one of her presentations a German man pulled her aside on the steps of a church. He had been one of the guards at the camp. He told her how much her words and story had come to mean to him. He put out his hand to shake hers. Corrie felt an unknown horror rising up in her, a revulsion which she did not know she still harbored. She did not want to shake the man’s hand, but she realized that Christ had forgiven him as well as her. On the steps of that church she shook his hand and forgave him too.

Forgiveness requires truth. Forgiveness cannot be possible in the presence of deception and cover up. Forgiveness is not an easy thing, but, empowered by Christ, is it possible. Forgiveness is possible because the energy of forgiveness flows from Christ. From Christ’s arms of love, forgiveness is felt, claimed and “played forward.” From the outstretched arms of Christ forgiveness heals the wounded heart.

One Perspective on “The Truth”:

Jesus has said that he is “the way, the truth and the life.” (John 14:6)

God’s truth is revealed through Jesus and from Jesus through the Bible, the Word of God. Sometimes, the picture that is painted by God Word isn’t something that I want to accept right off. Sometimes I don’t like to see the “truth” the way Jesus sees it. In those instances, I have to step back and honestly sort through the emotion and reactions God’s truth stirs up in me. I have to ask, “What my matter with all that?” “Why am I reacting so dramatically?” I have to process my stuff to come to a new pattern of thinking and acting that is in line with God’s truth, God’s way.

During the time that Knute Rockne was coaching at Notre Dame, a sports column in a South Bend newspaper earned the reputation of being the meanest, most biting, most cutting one in the country. The writer of the column, who wrote anonymously, knew the Notre Dame team very well. He wrote about their weaknesses. He pointed out the mistakes of individual players. He told about those who were lazy and those who were conceited. He told about those who broke training and who preferred to spend their time doing other things than preparing themselves to play a good football game.

The column made the players roaring mad. The truth telling of the writer really hurt. The team complained to Rockne. He was a sympathetic listener, but he said that he could not stop the writer. He advised that the only way in which the players could do so was to go out and play the game so well that they would prove the words written about them were not true.

It was later discovered that the writer of the column was Rockne himself. As coach of the team, he was best acquainted with their weaknesses. The critical column was his ingenious device to make a better team.

In the journey of life, in the path of faith, Jesus is our coach. Jesus knows us better than we know ourselves. Jesus wants nothing more than for us to be “winners” in the game of life. Jesus knows that we cannot achieve “Kingdom Greatness” unless we know the truth. Knowing the truth of God’s game plan frees us to discipline ourselves in the way of being faithful disciples.

Jesus has also said, “And you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (John 8:32)

September 2011 "Sketchings"

“GROWING UP!!”

“This is what God does. He gives his best – the sun to warm and the rain to nourish - to everyone, regardless: the good and the bad, the nice and nasty. If all you do is love the lovable, do you expect a bonus? Anybody can do that. If you simply say hello to those who greet you, do you expect a medal? Any run-of-the-mill sinner does that.
In a word, what I am saying is “grow up”. You are kingdom subjects. Now live like it. Live out your God created identity. Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you.” Jesus words in Matthew 5: 45 – 48 (The Message).

“Oh, grow up!” This is a phrase that youngsters often hear from adults, especially when they are trying to impress others. Having been a boy once, I can tell you that I don’t like that phrase, especially when it came with my Mom or Dad’s “parental attitude”. At the same time, I needed to be reminded that I could be something and someone better than what I was being. I needed to hear my Mom and Dad’s loving encouragement that they expected MORE from me than the bare minimum. Growing up always involves change, which is difficult and risky. But to not change is to stagnate. To stay the same is actually to go backwards.

“Oh, grow up!” God’s call, God’s invitation, to us is also an invitation to be on the road to growing into complete and whole individuals, kingdom people. God’s work has been, and always will be, to give us the best in order to nourish our growth into the people we’ve been created to be. God is always inviting us to recognize his blessings and live lives that are thankful for who we are now and graciously hopeful for what we can become through the live-giving power and promise of God’s gracious generosity and the guidance and power of God’s Holy Spirit. This kind of growth, becoming the disciples God intended us to be and becoming “kingdom subjects” that live lives that reflect God’s power, is difficult. It is risky. It involves change in our heart, our actions, our attitudes, our priorities and our lives. But if we do not grow up spiritually, we will stagnate and die. The Kingdom promise can not take root in our lives or be shared in our mission fields.

We live on a world in motion. Our culture is shifting more rapidly than we can comprehend. It seems like we just “catch a gear” for the next shift and suddenly there is another shift. Change is the common denominator.

Morning Star is a changing church. It isn’t comfortable to say that. But here again, change is necessary for a living body, for the organism that the Bible calls “The Body of Christ.” Jesus invites us to “Grow up”. Paul invites us to “grow up into Him who is the head, Jesus.” The Holy Spirit compels us to be like new plants in a freshly watered field. Everything in kingdom language is about growing, reaching a maturity of spirit. Nothing invites stagnation, even though Jesus Christ is the constant foundation forever.

Jesus says there will always be more mission we are called to do, more love we are called to experience and more growing up to do. In our growing we move to be more generous and gracious in our response to the needs of the world. As we grow God creates new opportunities and possibilities. Disciples are always ready to grow their faith to respond to the possibilities God lays in front of us.

Here are some of the places where we have opportunities to “grow up” to become like “kingdom subjects”:

In opportunities for worship and praise, learning and faith. As September comes around we will be adding a new opportunity: a worship opportunity for youth and young adults on the first Sunday evening of the month and strengthen others with music and participation of more and more folks. Our opportunities for Christian Education, available for all ages, we provide spots for youngsters, youth and adults to engage faith and grow roots of discipleship.

In opportunities for generous giving and service. The message here is that our generosity and service are simply ways to show others our confidence in a God who always provides and to tell others what the love of this god is all about. We do not give for ourselves, but for the benefit of others. We overflow our lives with the kind of love God overflows for us: undeserved, indiscriminate, surprising. Here we’re called to “grow up” from thinking that there isn’t enough, to living in our God created identity, dreaming beyond the trust that God always out gives the giver. Furthermore, in mission and ministry we are something more than “the bottom line.” God calls us to purposes that are higher, with opportunities to invest in others for the kingdom’s sake.

In opportunities to challenge “our sense of church”. God often comes into our lives disguised as a stranger asking, “What kind of a place are you runnin’ here anyway?” The stranger will probably be looking for a hospital where resources are invested in encouraging and aiding others along the road. The stranger will probably not be impressed with something that looks more like a “club” where membership has its privileges and people tend first to their own. Again we are called to “grow up”. We are to be something more, believe that we are all unworthy of grace, to understand that there are no special privileges.

By now, some are thinking, “Well, preacher, that all sounds good ... but .. it’s just not practical.” Of course it isn’t practical. Jesus’ point has always been that following him isn’t practical. Jesus point is that the law of God’s love dwelling in us compels us to stop depending on ourselves and start depending on him as we seek to grow into the people God created us to be, to go beyond what is practical and expected. Will it feel foolish at times? For sure. Will be wonder how we can meet the next need? Certainly. Will it be easy, painless comfortable? Hardly ever.

BUT, living generously and graciously toward others is a defining characteristic of those who are kingdom subjects, disciples, followers of Jesus. Our calling is to grow in his love, and connect others with the light of all creation. Our calling is to grow, grow over the long term, in the long run, even when in the short run it doesn’t look practical or seems reckless.

To do otherwise is to limit God, to ration grace into the places where it is safe and to be no different that the rest of the world.

God is calling us to “grow up”. Grow individually. Grow as a community. Grow in our generosity and in our graciousness.

What will that come to look like?

I don’t know for sure, but I can’t wait to find out.

T. O. M.

The Ant and the Contact Lens:

This story from my files. Source: 1995 book “Keep a Quiet Heart by Elisabeth Elliot in a chapter titled “Lost and Found”. Ms. Elliot attributes the story to a first person account sent to her by Brenda Foltz of Princeton, MN who maintained she wrote it based upon an event during her first rock climbing experience.

Brenda was almost halfway to the top of the tremendous granite cliff. She was standing on a ledge where she was taking a breather during this, her first rock climb. As she rested there, the safety rope snapped against her eye and knocked out her contact lens. "Great", she thought. "Here I am on a rock ledge, hundreds of feet from the bottom and hundreds of feet to the top of this cliff, and now my sight is blurry." She looked and looked, hoping that somehow it had landed on the ledge. But it just wasn't there. She felt the panic rising in her, so she began praying. She prayed for calm, and she prayed that she may find her contact lens.

When she got to the top, a friend examined her eye and her clothing for the lens, but it was not to be found. Although she was calm now that she was at the top, she was saddened because she could not clearly see across the range of mountains. She thought of the bible verse "The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth." She thought, "Lord, You can see all these mountains. You know every stone and leaf, and You know exactly where my contact lens is. Please help me."

Later, when they had hiked down the trail to the bottom of the cliff they met another party of climbers just starting up the face of the cliff. One of them shouted out, "Hey, you guys! Anybody lose a contact lens?" Well, that would be startling enough, but you know why the climber saw it? An ant was moving slowly across a twig on the face of the rock, carrying it!

The story doesn't end there. Brenda's father is a cartoonist. When she told him the incredible story of the ant, the prayer, and the contact lens, he drew a cartoon of an ant lugging that contact lens with the caption, "Lord, I don't know why You want me to carry this thing. I can' eat it, and it's awfully heavy. But if this is what You want me to do, I'll carry it for You."

I think it would do all of us some good to say, "God, I don't know why You want me to carry this load. I can see no good in it and it's awfully heavy. But, if you want me to carry it, I will."

This parable, like every testimony of the Bible reminds us of truth: God doesn't call the qualified, He qualifies the called.

We Must Forgive!

Oil and water just do not mix. You cannot have day and night at the same time. The changes of life and the changes of the seasons are something that cannot be held back.

These are just facts. We take them for granted. Because they are fact, we have learned to make some adjustments in our living. You know, for example, that if we fail to make the proper preparations for winter we’ll be found running around in the snow wishing we’d planned ahead. Facts are facts and we real have no choice in accepting them. Of course, we can deny their existence, but that doesn’t change the reality.

Jesus was a very down-to-earth factual kind of guy. He told stories taken from the every day lives of everyday people, people like us. When Jesus told stories people knew that he understood their lives and situations. When he gave advice, it was drawn from the lives that most people lived.

The most needed piece of advice Jesus ever gave was the need to forgive. It wasn’t a matter of choice. It wasn’t something Jesus saw as something that might be good to do once in a while, or if it benefited oneself, or if the circumstances were just right. Jesus spoke clearly about forgiveness, and Paul echoed his teachings. Jesus said, “forgive as you have been forgiven.” Jesus suggests some urgency in the need to forgive.

Why forgive? For one thing, forgiveness gets life off dead center. I have had occasions, and I know you have too, where I have been at odds with another person. I’ve had those instances where I’ve felt that the other person offended me first. From our experiences, we’ve all learned that as long as we hold onto that situation, as long as we hold the other person “guilty” for whatever wrong we feel they have done against us, the possibilities of a future with that person stop dead in its tracks. The possibility of clearing the air and enjoying the wonder of relationships is held hostage by a failure to forgive.

Of course, it is easy to feel justified in our anger. Of course there are those instances where it seems perfectly appropriate that the other person be made to suffer our wrath and have it tossed into their face (time and time again) that they have wronged us. But what really happens, truth be told, is that the opposite occurs. Instead of them feeling our wrath they shrug us off as a person who simply doesn’t get it. Instead of us being in control and holding the other person accountable what really happens is that we place ourselves in chains ... chains buried deep in the past.

So, if you intend to live, you must forgive. You must forgive if you hope for any newness to come into your life. You must take the first step in forgiveness if you ever hope to make amends with those who may have wronged you. You must forgive if you ever hope to be forgiven of the wrongs that are clearly of your own doing and making.

For sure, reaching out with a word of forgiveness might just be the hardest thing you’ve ever done. I know personally that it is a very humbling experience. However, following Jesus' command to forgive, in forgiving we’ll find some parts of our lives moving off dead center and a new spirit of peace emerging.

"This Road Has Potholes!!”

Around Omaha we hear a lot about potholes, especially in the spring. From what I see on a bike ride, apparently the heat has blistered a few streets and opened some bit potholes this summer.

But I want to speak about some other “potholes” in the road.

Life is a journey. There are hills and valleys, twists and curves and even a few potholes along the way. I’ve encountered a few recently myself. I’m sure you have too. The potholes can be pretty little, like a set back on a project, an unexpected change in schedule or a disagreement in a relationship. Or they can be big rim busting potholes like unemployment, having one’s car stolen or a medical diagnosis. Or they can be a variety of things in between.

What we know is that the people who find the most joy in life are the ones who can deal with the “potholes” in the journey. Temperament appears to predispose some people to see the dark side of situations and to incline toward pessimism. Certainly there are external circumstances and individuals over which one does not have control. But as humans, we are not helpless. We do have control over at least one thing.

Our ATTITUDE is within our control. Our attitude toward life is a choice. Our “self talk” to move us to place things in God’s hands, our self-conversation to “let it go to make room for a miracle” is one thing we can do/control. Negative self-talk, adopting a sense of helplessness practically guarantees a sorry outcome. Unless someone rescues us from ourselves we are likely to get swallowed up in the potholes along the journey.

Maybe you’ve heard about the jilted bride who placed an ad? "Hope Chest for Sale: brand new, half price, long story."

At quite the opposite side of “attitude” is the little boy playing right field for his Pee Wee League team. A latecomer leaned against the fence and asked, "What's the score?" When the boy answered that his team was trailing 8 to 0, the kindly fellow said, "Don't be too discouraged. Maybe your team will do better next time." The kid didn't even look up; he just said, "It's okay. We ain't been to bat yet!"

Now, don’t hear me wrong. I don’t want to say that we become naive or foolish. But, the potholes of life, as big as they might be, even if they are huge “sinkholes” in the journey, don’t have to be the end.

Believe it or not, life sometimes needs to work out the way love does. The twists and turns, the hills and valleys and even the potholes simply help us grow, learn to trust God, become more compassionate and even enjoy more fully the taste of victory and joy.

A couple of phrases of music have been rolling around in my head as some potholes loom in my journey. One goes, “...you make all things work together for my good...” The other is “...when the oceans rage, I don’t have to be afraid ...” Both are from the song” “Your Love Never Fails”. See the you-tube at

See you along the road...

"Being Faithful to Jesus"

In the interview, the Pastor was asked, “What’s your church growth plan?”

Her reply was, “All I have is a ‘Be Faithful to Jesus Plan’, which would include helping equip you to spread Christ’s grace and peace in this community. If I become your pastor, I’ll be with you for only a season. But this community is where God has called you to be the Body of Christ. This is your church, and you all know your town better than I do. There’s no way I could suggest something better than the ideas already present in your congregation.”

There is wisdom in her reply. The “rudder” of the community of faith, the Body of Christ, is Jesus Christ. As the head of his Church and the “rudder” of its mission and ministry, Jesus directs the Body to be in mission and ministry. The church is energized and motivated by a living relationship with Jesus. The claim God lays on individuals moves them toward discipleship and living like a disciple by giving generously, praying, worshiping, reading and studying the Bible, doing acts of service and sharing one’s faith.

A growing faith develops deeper understandings of how “call” brings disciples into a mutual partnership of responsibility, authority and accountability while continuing to seek the leading and guiding of the Holy Spirit. This deepening of faith and growth in discipleship enables the church to mutually tend to the matters entrusted by God to human hands.

One growth opportunity is coming to mutual understandings of the place the church holds in mission and ministry and the commitment to be well informed and prepared by having first tended to our personal spiritual commitments and discipleship.

Finding Father Benjamin: A Fable by Max Lucado

This fable was shared at our staff meeting a couple of weeks ago. It speaks for itself.

Unfavorable winds blow the ship off course, and when they do, the sailors spot uncharted islands. They see half a dozen mounds rising out of the blue South Seas waters.

The captain orders the men to drop anchor and goes ashore. He is a robust man with a barrel chest, full beard, and curious soul.

On the first island he sees nothing but sadness. Underfed children. Tribes in conflict. No fanning or food development, no treatment for the sick, and no schools. Just simple, needy people.

The second and following islands reveal more of the same. The captain sighs at what he sees. "This is no life for these people." But what can he do?

Then he steps onto the last and largest island. The people are healthy and well fed. Irrigation systems nourish their fields, and roads connect the villages. The children have bright eyes and strong bodies. The captain asks the chief for an explanation. How has this island moved so far ahead of the others?

The chief, who is smaller than the captain but every bit his equal in confidence, gives a quick response: "Father Benjamin. He educated us in everything from agriculture to health. He built schools and clinics and dug wells."

The captain asks, "Can you take me to see him?”

The chief nods and signals for two tribesmen to join him. They guide the captain over a jungle ridge to a simple, expansive medical clinic. It is equipped with clean beds and staffed with trained caretakers. They show the captain the shelves of medicine and introduce him to the staff. The captain, though impressed, sees nothing of Father Benjamin. He repeats his request. "I would like to see Father Benjamin. Can you take me to where he lives?"

The three natives look puzzled. They confer among themselves. After several minutes the chief invites, "Follow us to the other side of the island." They walk along the shoreline until they reach a series of fishponds. Canals connect the ponds to the ocean. As the tide rises, fish pass from the ocean into the ponds. The islanders then lower canal gates and trap the fish for harvest.

Again the captain is amazed. He meets fishermen and workers, gatekeepers and net casters. But he sees nothing of Father Benjamin. He wonders if he is making himself clear.

"I don't see Father Benjamin. Please take me to where he lives."

The trio talks alone again. After some discussion the chief offers, "Let's go up the mountain." They lead the captain up a steep, narrow path. After many twists and turns the path deposits them in front of a grass-roofed chapel. The voice of the chief is soft and earnest. "He has taught us about God."

He escorts the captain inside and shows him the altar, a large wooden cross, several rows of benches, and a Bible.

"Is this where Father Benjamin lives?" the captain asks.
The men nod and smile.

"May I talk to him?"
Their faces grow suddenly serious. "Oh, that would be impossible."

“Why?”

"He died many years ago."

The bewildered captain stares at the men. "I asked to see him, and you showed me a clinic, some fish farms, and this chapel. You said nothing of his death."

"You didn't ask about his death," the chief explains. "You asked to see where he lives. We showed you."

Source
Max Lucado, Outlive Your Life, Nashville: Thomas Nelson, 2010, xix-xxi.

Early Quotes and thoughts from our "Shared Book Reading”

The council has been reading “Power Surge” by Michael Foss. Everyone has been invited to join the reading.

Here are some quotes and thoughts from Chapters 1 – 3 for reflection.

1) In the introduction Foss discusses the “membership” model of church affiliation. Here the church lays claim to the lives of Christians. He is advocating a change to a “discipleship” model. In this model Jesus lays claim to the lives of Christians and Christian faith is demonstrated by a focus on growing discipleship. ( pg. 4 – 5)

2) “In the Protestant explosion of the 1950’s, membership implied obligation. In today’s cultural context, membership has come to imply prerogatives.” (pg. 15)

3) “Perhaps the greatest weakness of the membership model has been the loss, over time, of its vision for the mission of the church.” (pg. 16) Foss also says that “all the power the church will ever need comes from people – people whose lives are changes, people who live “in Christ”, people who live lives of disciplined discipleship. (pg. 4)

4) “Discipleship is about changing and shaping lives by the grace of God.” (pg. 20)

5) “Discipleship is a about individual Christians – and the church as a community of Christians – living in mission.” (pg. 28)

6) “Pastors are leaders, not chaplains”. (pg. 31) “Pastors become spiritual catalysts through whom the Holy Spirit encourages, equips, directs and strengthens the faith of those they serve” (pg. 32)


Here are some additional thoughts, connections:

1) On page 4 about half way down it mentions Jacob wrestling with God. The whole story is found in Genesis 32: 22 – 32. The result of this was that Jacob’s name was changed to “Israel”. A name change in Bible language means a transformation of the Spirit as well.

2) Foss speaks to the idea that "the claim of the church on people's lives" has been a standard assumption. In this new North American landscape, this claim is no longer functioning. What is needed, Foss seems to say is "the claim of Jesus on people's lives." The claim of Jesus on a life moves an individual into deeper connections with God and a discipleship style of life. I'm wondering how you might think about these two categories.

3) Over the last couple of years or so, I have been making a conscious effort to talk about “disciples” vs. “members.” I have found that effort to be quite challenging, both to my efforts at consistent language but also to my ability to be understood by a culture that largely is focused on “membership” models. I’m wondering where this language (and commitment) shift is challenging you as you read Pastor Foss’s descriptions and analysis.

If you aren’t reading “Power Surge” maybe this will give you some incentive. If you are, what thoughts are challenging your perspective of your faith? Please share you insights and growth points.

“Why the Lutheran Message Isn’t Popular”

It is no secret that most Lutheran churches (as well as other “mainline” denominations) are not the most rapidly growing churches around. But there are many congregations that are growing rapidly.

Recently there have been questions about the type of “christianity” / ”discipleship” encountered in these “fast growing” churches. There has been a move toward changing lives, transforming faith and commitment to a discipleship walk with Jesus. Growth in depth for most Lutherans has replaced the goal of growth in numbers.

In the Lutheran tradition the gospel message is different. Instead of focusing on numbers and doing whatever it might take to appeal to large crowds of people, most Lutherans will focus on our rich tradition of preaching something called a “theology of the cross.” Martin Luther first used this phrase during the Reformation in contrast to what he called a “theology of glory.”

A “theology of glory” focuses on “me.” Jesus Christ becomes a means to our own end. It is a way to be successful, healthy, beautiful, morally superior, patriotic or even wealthy. A “theology of glory” “uses” the Bible to support our own preconceptions or ideals and provides easy answers fro some of life’s toughest questions. Jesus comes to us “prepackaged” for our convenience and people crowd in to get a piece of the action.

But a “theology of the cross” sees the Good News (Gospel) of Jesus Christ differently. That’s why the Lutheran message isn’t so popular. At the cross, the crowds scatter and Jesus is left alone. There, on that lonely hill, God enters fully into the human experience of suffering and shame. The God of the cross is not one who magically transforms us into happy and beautiful people. Rather the cross reveals the true depth of God’s love for the world. A “theology of the cross is all about GOD. It is not about “me.’ Through the fullness of Jesus and his willingness to remain faithful even to death, sin loses its power to determine our future and by the resurrection of Jesus form the dead, hope is born into the world in the most powerful way possible. Nothing can separate us from God. We are joined to the divine life through Jesus so there is never a “God-forsaken” moment in our lives! We do not need to escape suffering ... for god provides the power and the nourishment to OUTGROW IT.

The growth we need as Christians is growth through the message of the cross. It isn’t a popular message. It doesn’t attract crowds. However, this growth is real. It is life-changing. It is powerful and real. A “theology of the cross” is brutally honest about the way life is, but it also provides a promise that sin and death and suffering will never have the last word. Our fate is not up to us. It is up to God ... and God has so loved the world that he GAVE his one and only Son so that we might be saved from all that we need saving from.

Claiming and receiving this Gospel into our lives provides a freedom and a power to grow in ways we never imagined.

I’m trusting in the power of the Holy Spirit to lead us all to grow deeper roots in the Gospel of Jesus. I’m praying for movement in our lives from a “theology of glory” to a “theology of the cross.” I’m trusting in the power of the Spirit to lead us to grow as people of faith in our love for others, because of our love for Jesus.

We may not attract “crowds”, but we will attract PEOPLE. People who long to know that God loves them, forgives them, frees them from the past so that they too might walk in a “newness of life” and know the joy of God’s grace.

People longing for this Gospel power will never be served by a “theology of glory.” A “theology of the cross”, though, will change their lives.

Take A Closer Look

On a clear evening, away from the city streetlights and glare, I witnessed a beautiful sight. Looking up into the evening sky I saw dozens of stars twinkling in the darkness. As my eyes adjusted to the light, those dozens became hundreds ... there were more stars than could be counted. Looking closely, I noticed that that the sky almost had more white than black. The beauty of the stars was dazzling.

This experience speaks to a simple but great truth about life: the closer you look the more you see. It is a principle that can be applied to the community of faith.

Take Morning Star, for example. At first glance one might see a building, and attractive building both inside and out. Looking more closely you’d notice that it is a gathering place for babies and toddlers daily in a PreSchool and Child Care Center and a place of worship on Saturday evenings and Sunday mornings. Keeping a close eye on things, you’d soon notice that there are a variety of meetings, gathering and programs for youngsters, youth and adults. And you would notice that it is a place where laughter and tears are shared.

A close look would reveal something else. Morning Star isn’t a perfect place. Depending on your point of view it’s too small or too large, too traditional or too modern, too demanding or filled with too many sinners. If fact, some people see so much imperfection it gets written off as a bad deal altogether.

Now look closer, much closer, maybe even magnifying glass close. Morning Star is a Christian community gathered in the name of Jesus Christ. It is the place where believers are most likely to encounter God in action. In good times, it is a place of celebration. In tougher times, it is a place of support and prayer. It tragic times, it is the only place that offers a message of true hope. The mission and ministry of Morning Star is founded on a commitment to offer something that everyone needs: a sense of God’s presence and power, forgiveness and love.

Certainly, the church has many critics. But on the other hand the Church of Jesus Christ has no rivals.

Take a closer look and you can see it for yourself.

GOING WITH THE FLOW:

Life is a canoe trip down a rushing stream.
You can’t turn back, though you long to do so.
You can only move with the current, churning and splashing along.
But how I would like to back up stream and take another look at that breath taking view of mountain peaks, or back to that spot where the water is calm in a pond created by a family of beavers.
How I would like to get back upstream to the point before the canoe overturned and drenched me and I had to pull it up to shore and bail it out.
Back up stream, knowing in advance where the whirlpools and eddies are and the hidden rock that lie waiting to ram my shinny craft.

But life flows on.
And I must go with the flow.
Go with the openness and flexibility to what life brings.

Going with the flow is risk.
I never know when there may be another capsize.
Or even when the trip will be ended by a rock punching a hole in my craft.
But that’s the thrill of it all.
The life and death struggle to keep afloat and moving with the flow.

Moving along, the stream get broader.
I become more skillful in maneuvering the craft of life.
Going with the flow, I discover there are even more thrilling views, views never imagined.
The serendipity of it all is almost too much.
I hadn’t planned on passing through a meadow blazing with spring flowers.
Or seeing a proud buck brazing in the distance.
Or an eagle soaring overhead.
These are the extras of life.
Things I didn’t earn.
Things I didn’t count on
Things I don’t deserve.
They are gifts.
Gifts from the Giver.

I know not what lies ahead.
But I know I must go with the flow.
And I would not turn back upstream.
No. Not really, even if I had the chance.
For there are too many challenges.
Too many thrills to lure me on.
And on.
And on.
by Perry H. Biddle Jr.

New Opportunity for "Financial Literacy":

In the middle of money meltdowns, tensions over financial policies and debt ceilings and the growing number of bankruptcies, it would appear that there is a high degree of need for personal "financial literacy."

Dave Ramsey is a well know leader in this area. He is the guy with solid information about handling money responsibly, avoiding debt, and practicing generosity. His books are New York Times bestsellers, and his radio program carries the challenge of financial accountability to millions of people every day. Some of you have studied his Financial Peace University classes - and wished you had learned the basics years ago. Before you got married. Before you bought a too-expensive car on a too-meager salary.

Some folks had a vision of presenting the Ramsey materials via qualified academics and for college credit to entice young men and women to study principles of financial management early enough in life that it will make a difference for a lifetime.

The result is that Dave Ramsey's Foundations in Personal Finance is being offered online--for college credit. The seven-week course offers three credits that can be transferred to any accredited college or university.

This concept should have an appeal to high school juniors and seniors who want to get off to an early start on college credits. It should have an appeal to bring young people who want to add to their elective credits. It should have an appeal for parents who want to equip thier children with solid information they can build on for life. For both college students and even for high school juniors and seniors who can get early college credit for their effort.

The hope is that this effort creates the potential for making a life-changing difference for thousands of young people.

Check out http://rc.edu/daveramsey.

Help someone learn financial literacy.

And, if you're interested in a Dave Ramsey Financial University at Morning Star, please let me know. We have individuals who are qualified to help us host one.

Bridge to Heaven:

Several have asked for the final slide in my Sunday Sermon. Here it is. It is also in my sermon posted under "Sermons" on the Morning Star Website.
Enjoy the inspiration!

August 2011 "Sketchings"

“GOING THE DISTANCE!!”

Remember the story of the tortoise and the hare? It involves a challenge thrown down by the hare for a race between himself and the tortoise. Of course, it seems like a sure bet that the rabbit is going to win. Speed is not the main asset of a turtle. So when the race begins the rabbit takes off. The hare is so far out in front. His confidence is beaming. The race surely has already been won. So the hare decides take a break, to step out of the action and to take a nap.

But things are far from over. The race hasn’t been won. The tortoise doesn’t stop but plods on with the slow, methodical, deliberate steps that are his forte. He’s in this race to win. He knows that in order to win he must plod on, step after step. You know the end of the story. The turtle proves victorious over the over-confident and foolish rabbit.

This story can be an image of our Christian walk. Our getting to the end means faithfulness in our following of Jesus Christ. It means persistence in staying in the race with our fullest effort. It means keeping our eyes on God’s vision for us and refusing to let circumstances determine the outcome.

Now let me follow that by saying that our goal as Christians is to grow our faith and confidence and trust so that we can keep going. The “prize” that we’re after is the high honor of serving our God out of the deep roots of faith that join us to Jesus, the Christ. Our dream victory is simply being faithful step by step over the long haul to the calling we have to become more and more like the Spirit of God that fills us.

If we’re intent on doing that, we have some steps to take to get going. If we’re going to move from standing still and getting this “race of faith” underway, we need to deal with those old familiar, “who, what, where, when and why” questions.

Right now, I’d say, that the most difficult of those questions before us is the “when” question. As individuals, and perhaps ever as a congregation, we have all kinds of thoughts about where to go; what to do; with whom to do it and why. But in order to get out of the box, up to the starting line and on the way, it is the “when” question that has to be figured out. When is the word of procrastination. When is the element called indecision. When, when put into motion, is the door through which we will need to pass if we are to move from where we are today to where we want to be tomorrow. When is the key question to be answered before we can be fully on the road toward the “prize” of faithfulness in our calling as children of God.

When is a serious question as we consider our relationship with Jesus the Christ. When is a serious question as we plod along step by step through life. When is a serious question in putting down deep roots of faith.

When are you going to get back to consistent regular worship with God’s family? When are you going to break the habit of sitting at home with the Sunday paper and a cup of coffee? When are you going to get things straight in terms of generosity and really being a good steward of the resources God has given you to manage? When is Christ going to truly become the captain of your life? When is prayer going to become as natural as breathing and as frequent as your next breath? When will you finally decide that you’ve waited long enough on the fringes of the Christian life (the hare’s nap???) and that it’s finally time to jump in with both feet and see what Jesus Christ wants to really do in and through you for the rest of your life? When are you going to start to take seriously the responsibility you have as a partner and member of the Body of Christ where all parts must work together for Christ’s work to be done in mission and ministry.

As far as your relationship with Jesus Christ, when is a question you need to take seriously. When is Christ going to truly become the captain of your life? When is prayer going to be something as natural as breathing and as frequent as your next breath? When will you finally decide that you’ve waited on the fringes of the Christian life long enough and that it’s finally time to jump in with both feet and see what Jesus Christ wants to really do with the rest of your life?

Answer the “when” question with Christ and you will begin to see some exciting things happen as you move faithful step by faithful step along the road St. Paul calls the “race (of faith) that is set before us.” Exciting things will start to happen for all of us because you’ve made a new commitment to the work of the Body of Christ and our movement toward the “prize” of mission and ministry. Exciting things will start to appear as we persist in not being detoured by circumstances, but only focusing on God’s work through our hands in mission and ministry.

Joining you in the race!

T. O. M.