Covenant Class Blog

Boy, oh boy, do I have good news for you!

2012-01-27T22:56:00.002-06:00

James Moore takes the story of Mary from the first chapter of Luke and lets her speak to us about accepting the call of God on her life. He reminds us of the many Christmas pageants that we have witnessed. In these pageants, Mary is portrayed as a young woman that has been addressed by an angel and is prepared to become the mother of Jesus. She takes all this in a matter of fact way. A little startled, but accepting of the situation. The background for the story is a little more complicated than that. I loved the story of the boy that is to play the Christmas angel proclaiming the Good News. I think that Mary may have deviated from the script, also. It is good that she has a cousin, Elizabeth, in a similar situation. One is a teenage girl pregnant and not married. The other is a postmenopausal woman that is pregnant long after her child bearing years have past. Each is destined to be a part of a major event in the history of humankind. Neither is quite sure what is going on, but they become willing particiapants. Most folk don't have angels visiting and being active participants in family planning. Elizabeth's son is to become the herald for the coming of the Messiah. Mart's son is to be the Messiah. Through these angelic visits, God is preparing for a seismic shift in history. As they meet and visit, they try to make some sense of their roles. Moore talks about Mary's unflinching faith. He reminds us of the song, Mary, Did You Know?" Each Christmas, I marvel at the words of that song as it is sung. I know that the angel told her what was taking place, but how could she, a teenager, know the magnitude of her place in history. How could she have any concept of who Jesus would really be? In the hundreds of years since God made the covenant with Abraham, the hope of the Nation of Israel had been the coming of a Messiah. That was then. This is now. Boy, of boy have I got good news for you! Moore tells us that it was probably not all happiness and light for Mary and Joseph. He reminds us of the human side of the community. Snide remark, gossip, crude jokes and all the things that we as humans can do when we disbelieve. The leadership that got wind of the Messiah coming in the form of a baby from a "common" girl. The pressure on Joseph to "do the right thing" and put Mary out of the community. Moore asks us who in their right mind could accept such an explanation of what was going on? Mary has heard prophecies that a Messiah will come and lead the nation. God, now, asks her to be an active part of that happening. "I am the handmaid of the Lord." she says. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, his book, The Cost Of Discipleship, states, "...only he who believes is obedient, and on he who is obedient believes." I believe that Mary epitomizes that statement. She has been a believer in God's word and now is willing to be a part of that word. The angel did not spell out the details of the events that were to follow. Mary was simply told that God needed her to do as she was asked. All of us have had someone like Elizabeth. At least, I hope we have. Elizabeth must have reassured Mary from the perspective of an abundance of life's experiences; that, God had carried the Nation of Israel through many trials. Now, God would carry her through this. Read Moore's story on pages 98 & 99 as he gives us an example of the role of positive reinforcement that Elizabeth played in Mary's time of preparation. Each of us is called upon to be the encourager for someone. Is God any less persistent than the father seeking his son in the rubble of an Armenian earthquake? For Mary and Elizabeth, there must have been days of pain and heartache as they watched their sons carry out God's mission to save humankind from itself. Moore closes with this statement, " We see the miracle of Christmas in the faith of Mary and in the encouragement of Elizabeth, but most of all, we see it in the saving action of God." Like Joey said, "Boy, oh boy, have I got good news for you!!" Believe it.

What is Required of Us?

2012-01-20T11:46:00.000-06:00

It’s amazing how fast we move through these books. James Moore continues to call voices up for us to hear. In this eighth chapter of I Hear Voices… , he is asking us to hear the voice of Micah as he distills the essence of God’s requirements for a spirit filled life. He expresses concern for the losses that we have suffered as a country in the demoralization(both morale and morals) of America. He gives a litany of the areas of our society that have become less that they should be. Each of us could probably add to the list and explain the reason for the listing. In his thoughts, Moore, is concerned with the excesses of the areas of concern. I don’t see that he condemns each of these areas, as such,.Rather, he is concerned that the pendulum has swung too far in one direction, or the other. In listing his perceived dangers, the loss of “Goodness” is first. He quotes some noted theological figures, such as, Jay Leno. In his on the street interviews, Jay asks questions that we would think anyone would be able to answer. The subjects of The Ten Commandments, quotations from Jesus, and Old testaments stories seem so elementary to us, but confound the average person on the street. I misquoted Thomas Jefferson a couple of week ago, but Moore recounts a story that must have distressed this great man to no end. In his mind, apparently, Jefferson felt that humankind acted out of an innate sense of conscience. His great experiment of a university was not dealing with the lowest level of society, but college age young people that should have been exposed to the social mores of the day. Yet ,they reverted to virtual animal behavior when all restraints were removed. Moore, then moves to the danger of becoming tribes or being “Balkanized” as a society. I appreciate his play on words when he says that we have ignored E pluribus unum and moved to more unum than pluribus. I agree that special needs may best represented by sensitized groups. The difficulty may be that each of these groups devolop a single agenda that ignore the needs of any, but their group. This is true of society as a whole, but is also true of the church. For example, when ministry is based on a single factor, the church may ignore the needs of the many. The possibilities are endless. Think about all the groups that clamor for attention. Think, also, about those that have no voice and can be easily ignored. Finally, Moore calls to mind the tendency of society to interpret the freedom of religion as freedom from religion. Like some of us, he sees the entertainment industryas hostile to Christianity. The trend over the several decades has been to portray religious(Christian) leaders as narrow-minded and weak. Interestingly, he points out that the church has become a reflection of society instead of a shaper of society. Is this a true indictment? How has this been played out? Moore asks how serious issues can be debated in society without the governing tenents or reference to religion?

All we have to do is watch the evening news to see that played out. One danger that Moore doesn’t address has been lifted by some in the church in recent times. It is the danger of grief. If, in fact, we spend so much time in grieving about the way things used to be done, we may miss the opportunity to move into the future with new ministries. Jesus warned bout that when he made the analogy of new wine in old skins or patching old fabric with new cloth. If we are not willing to let go of the “old time religion”; like the Pharisees, the church may not speak in a understandable voice. Preservation of principles is essential. As Moore quotes, “A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both.” Dwight Eisnehower. Wesley stresses that dogma and doctrine are not deal breakers. Can we hear Micah speaking to today’s world? “Do Justice, Love Kindness, and Walk Humbly With Your God.” Do you see the world putting its fingers in its ears when some or all of these words are spoken?

A Text From God

2012-01-14T16:55:00.002-06:00

I need to make a correction to a statement from last Sunday. I credited Thomas Jefferson with the statement,”God helps those who help themselves.” In fact, that is a quote from Poor Richard’s Almanac. Benjamin Franklin is the author of that statement, often credited to scripture. I miss-spoke in the excitement of the beauty pageant in Esther.

In the Seventh chapter of, I Hear Voices…., James more lifts up an event that brings all activity to a halt at the king’s banquet. In the sports world, he credits Howard Cosell with bringing reality speak to the sports casting field. The king, Belshazzar, decides to have a party and celebrate by using the sacred vessels from the temple in Jerusalem for cocktail glasses. They, not only, use them for party drinking, but also for toasting all manner of local gods. Because of this terrible desecration of something holy in a show of disrespect, God sends them a text message. A large ghost like hand writes on the wall, these four words, “MENE, MENE, TEKEL, and PARSIN”. Suddenly, Belshazzar has a moment of sobriety. Not has the unknown hand written on the wall, but it has written in a language that Belshazzar can’t understand. Daniel is called to interpret the writing. In essence, Daniel tells the king that he has messed up big time. MENE means your days are numbered. TEKEL means that you have been weighed and found wanting. PERES means that your kingdom will fall and be divided. (Dan. 5:18-28). That night the king is killed and his kingdom fell. Moore says that some are so preoccupied that they can’t take time to see the handwriting on the wall. There are too many other interesting distractions in life to see that has been written. They, like the story of Grimaldi, are so preoccupied with the glitz and glamour that they miss the message. Life is so busy that it is empty. Secondly, Moore talks about those that look at the writing and just blow it off because it would take effort to learn the meaning of it. He likens it to those that pick up The Bible and read some random passages and decide that it is meaningless garble. I wonder what would happen if we all went to the first day of school and left because we couldn’t read the instructions? Does anyone expect learn, in one sitting, the whole of a subject? Maybe they just believe that they are without value and can't imagine that God would want to have a relationship with them. In a third case, Moore feels that there are those that just can’t handle ,”Telling it like it is”. He raises the possibility that some in the banquet actually could understand the words on the wall, but were afraid to tell the king because it would not make him happy. Not many ever really want to anger the person in power. Now, when Daniel is called, he speaks the truth to power. The king is willing to listen to Daniel because someone that he trusts, vouches for Daniel’s ability to translate the words. Moore calls us to examine our spiritual strengths. He asks if anyone has ever cast you in the light of one that in whom there is the spirit of the holy God. Daniel has stood in the presence of power before and been a fearless messenger. Think of the ways that our society kills the messenger. The ways that we become preoccupied and miss the message. Are we “too nice” to speak the truth? Are there writings that we don’t understand? What do we do to seek understanding? Are we like Mark Twain? He is supposed to have said that it wasn’t the part of The Bible that he did not understand that bothered him. It was the part that he did understand that bothered him. Think about it.

Speaking of seizing the moment

2012-01-08T14:20:00.001-06:00

FIND SOMEONE....
...who might be on the outer edge of your circle today who might be sorta looking in.

Call to them.

Assure them they are important, meaningful, and loved.

And when you walk away....

....remind yourself that such is just like what Jesus would have done.

Oh No! I could have had a V8

2012-01-07T17:55:00.003-06:00

Esther 4:1-17 is the basis for James Moore's chapter for this week. Moore asks a number of questions about missed opportunities. Moments missed to make a difference in some one's life. Letters, phone calls, compliments, and many other things that never happened. He, then, highlights some characters in scripture that missed "their" moment. He lists about seven cases of missed opportunities to do a great thing. As you look through this list, can you think of others? Are there times or a time in your life that you recall having experienced your moment? How about a time when you said, "I wish I had(or hadn't)...." Esther seized the moment and saved her people great tragedy. Can you remember another person in history like Haman? What would have happened if Martin Luther, John Wesley or others had not stepped up? I recently heard a phrase that has stuck with me and comes to mind as I read the story of Esther. "Speak truth to power." Esther had the courage to do that. It would have been wrong to have allowed Haman to carry out his plan without speaking up. We know the end of the story, and it turned out all right. Esther couldn't know that; yet, she spoke up. Dietrich Bonhoeffer spoke the truth to Hitler's regime and lost his life. So, the results are never forgone conclusions. All the Apostles spoke the truth and lost their lives in the process. Regardless of the outcome, we must be willing to seize the moment. Fortunately, most of us are not called to make that kind of decision. The study guide asks us to list some causes for missed moments. That may seem an unnecessary exercise, but it might help us to be prepared when "the moment" arises. Think about it.

Oh No! I could have had a V8

2012-01-07T17:55:00.000-06:00

Are We a Failure at Success?

2011-12-31T09:48:00.002-06:00

It seems like a month ago that we left Moore's book "I Hear Voices...." with the voice of Moses ringing in our ears. Now, we are asked to deal with King Saul's inability to handle success. Moore reminds us of the downward spiral of comedian Freddie Prinze in 1977. We could substitute a half a dozen names in the story without much thought. We see the inability of many to handle the pressures of the insane lifestyle of "successful" celebrities. In the entertainment, political and business world, there are almost daily examples of the destruction(self and otherwise) that occurs in lives. Jim Moore states; that, in his opinion, we have more trouble dealing with success than adversity. Moore reminds us of the rise and fall of Saul. His story is similar to David's in the transition from shepherd boy to king. So, this may well be a characteristic of humankind. We lose our sense of priority. We are distracted by the success and lose the focus on the real purpose that we set out to achieve. Saul became so paranoid about David's popularity; that, he could not focus on being king. His purpose became to destroy David: and with the loss of focus, he was defeated. He lost sight of the fact that he was to be an instrument of God's power and worried about keeping his personal power. Sound familiar? His resentment of David's popularity became a bigger threat than the Philistine army. Jealousy and envy are strong enemies. When we resent the success of others, it detracts from our ability to see clearly the objectives that we have to attain. Moore suggests the the loss of family can be a by-product of success. David was family, but Saul lost both his natural sons on the same day that he was defeated. His world came crashing down around his ears. In his misery, he cannot see that he has been at fault. Saul accuses God of deserting him. Who moved? The voice of Saul should be saying to us that we will lose--when we lose sight of God's calling and purpose in our lives. Look around and listen for the voices that are calling from the television and other sources. In the past week, how many stories tell of someone that was consumed by success? What happens when we wade into the stream of success with clay feet?

Look forward and do not be afraid

2011-12-17T18:17:00.002-06:00

In the scripture for this chapter, Moore is asking us to realize that God will lead us forward, if we will overcome our fear. God calls the people of Israel to move forward. They are caught in the headlights of the approaching Egyptian army and cannot see where God is calling them to go. Moses has led them out of Egypt to be slaughtered in the wilderness. Moses has experienced the burning bush and is on fire for God. Now, nothing and nobody is going to keep him from following God. God's power overshadows Pharaoh's strength. It seems to me, that the question we face, daily, is, do we drive looking in the rear view mirror; or do we look through the windshield to see the glorious future that God is unfolding before us. We have much of life to look back upon and can forget that God always leads us forward and never backward. Moore asks us whether we look through the eyes of fear or the eyes of faith. Maybe, with Mark Twain, we are facing the wrong direction. Do you agree with Moore; that, "Believing is seeing"? Francis of Assisi found a new way of seeing things and that changed his vision and awakened to a new way. Ill health caused him to be unable to do what he envisioned for life and allowed him to do life in the way that God intended. The arrogant man became the symbol for humility and service and self-sacrifice. Moore revisits the issue of fixing blame as he calls us to look at the direction the people of Israel were pointing. They were pointing to Moses as the source of their problems. Their fear never entered their heads. It had broken their relationship and trust in God and Moses. They could not hear Moses' words of exhortation to move forward in trust with God. Forgiveness was not in their minds. Only the fact that Moses has led them into the wilderness to die. They continue to look the wrong way and see only the Egyptian army and hear the rumbling of the chariot wheels. They only see the obstacle of the Red Sea. Moses continues to urge them to trust in God and move forward. Do we go merrily along singing a happy song; until, we actually see the size of the giant that God has placed in our road? Remember David and Goliath? Maria in The sound of Music is filled with confidence until she sees the von Trapp estate. We come to that point when we have followed God into a situation that is a little too real for us to handle. Remember Peter? We stand with Maria and pray, "Oh, God help, me!". We need to listen to the wisdom of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, "I believe that God will give us all the strength we need to help us to resist in time of distress. But he never gives it in advance, lest we should rely on ourselves and not on him alone." (John 16:12) Legend has it that only when someone had the faith to put a foot in the Red Sea did God part the waters. "Trust God....Go Forward"

Who's to blame? Does it matter?

2011-12-10T10:49:00.002-06:00

Does trouble need an invitation? James Moore opens his third chapter in "I Hear Voices...." by telling us that trouble visits where it pleases and stays as long it cares to. Murphy's Law is that, if things can go wrong; they will go wrong; at the worst possible time. O'Toole's Rule is that Murphy was an optimist. Moore's example is the story of Joseph in Genesis 50. Joseph is the favorite son of a wealthy man. He has everything that his heart could desire. He is probably a brat; at least, his eleven brothers think so. Joseph flaunts his stuff to the brothers and tells them that his dreams foretell them will bowing down to him. Too much information! They intend to kill him, but it is easier and more profitable to sell him into slavery. Moore explores the question of who caused this: The brothers' jealousy? The Father's favoritism? Joseph's attitude? As usual, there is shared responsibility, but Moore says it really doesn't matter. The rub comes when we spend too much time trying to fix blame and too little time trying to fix the problem. The real issue, is the way we respond to the problem. In this case, Joseph grows up on the way to Egypt. The Father grieves. The brothers celebrate the peace and quiet of their guilt. Moore quotes psychologists in the choices we have in these situations. Retreat into self pity and bitterness or move forward and struggle with the demons that face us. Moore challenges us to look these questions in the light of the cross. He quotes Harry Emerson Fosdick about the quality of character and how it evolves. (page 32) List the reasons that Joseph should have given up and turned his face to the wall. (Genesis 41) Moore reminds us that an oyster can only produce a pearl after it has been irritated. Always to look to the redeeming grace in the situation. God could have allowed the cross to be the end; instead, of the beginning. That brings us to the question and answer in times of trouble. Where is God? In Romans 8:35, Paul answers that question. Jesus has already answered it in Matt. 28:20. Each of us, in looking back at a time of trouble will recognize the presence of God; just as, Joseph did when he said," You meant evil against me, but God turned it for good." Re-read Ps 23. Listen for God's voice. It may not be in the sound of the walls crashing around you, but it will be in the silence that follows.

Family Reunions/Feuds

2011-12-02T09:43:00.002-06:00

We continue to open the ideas that James Moore lifts in his book, "I Hear Voices.....". Most of us can remember a time when we celebrated "The War is Over!" We have had a number of opportunities to celebrate because we have lived through several of the world conflicts. Because of that, we become increasing skeptical of the phrase. It is also true when we have observed resolution of a conflict within our or another's family. We become more and more cautious in believing that it is really "Over". Moore lifts a number of "freeze frames" for us to consider as we review our own images of war and the end of war. Sometimes these images are the result of photographs in magazines, on television or the internet. What personal pictures are imprinted on your memory? Are there images of magnanimous people settling conflict with selfless compassion? Moore lifts the passage from Jesus' Sermon on the Mount in Matt 5:9. " Blessed are the peacemakers...." John Wesley in his sermons on the Sermon on the Mount, does not limit the peacemakers work to the settlement of land or property disputes. In his mind the peacemaker works in all areas of life to bring peace. If it is hunger, prison, illness, nakedness or any other human condition that limits personal peace, the Christian is to work to bring peace. Moore is lifting the idea that hate is a societal issue that moves from target to target. Our world is small and any effort to hate is detrimental to all. In families, he wants us to be especially aware that hurts and hate can run very deep because of the relationships. Do you know of a family feud that is fed by a broken clock? Family feuds in churches is as frequent and destructive as within our biological families. Think of some conflicts that have occurred over the selection of hymns, creeds, furniture, carpet, etc. We may not be able to bring peace to the Middle East, but we can certainly say, with Abraham, ""Let there be no strife between you and me." Moore is very timely with his story of Lee Atwater's conversion. This is the season of political hate and discontent. Every aspect of every candidate's life is microscopically examined and exposed. Life's sewers are dredged and all manner of nastiness is brought up and displayed. We must be held accountable, but "God so loved the world that he gave his only Son....". We remember that were are not perfect, but we are forgiven. The study guide asks us to think about why we hate. Was Lot worthy of Abraham's graciousness? What makes family squabbles so bad? Do you agree with Wesley's assessment of a peace maker?

Letting Your Light Shine or Not?

2011-11-29T10:54:00.002-06:00

In our discussion of James Moore's new book, Sunday, there came a discussion about Jesus contradicting himself in Matthew 5:13-15 and Matthew 6: 5-8. My voice and energy level was not strong enough to fully engage in the discussion. This is not a new issue. We frequently are puzzled by what Jesus said in one place and what he said in another. The Disciples were no different from us in that regard. They had the advantage of being able to turn to Jesus and ask for clarification. They also understood the societal context of the statements. They knew the nature of lighting in the average Jewish home as referenced in Matt. 5. They were also well aware of the problem that Jesus was addressing in Matt. 6.

In Matt. 5, Dr. William Barclay spends several pages explaining the lighting (or lack thereof) in the average Jewish home and notes that the purpose of the very inefficient lamp is to give some light. It is, therefore, set upon a stand to spread its feeble light as far as possible. He equates this to our efforts to reflect the light of Christ to the world. They are not nearly as bright as the true light of Christ, but we are obligated to do the best that we can. Barclay quotes an unknown source, "There can be no such thing as secret discipleship, for either the secrecy destroys the discipleship, or the discipleship destroys the secrecy. " Our Christianity is reflected by every act in our lives. As Reggie McNeil states in Missional Renissance, "Our 'thereness' is what the world needs. That includes what happens when we have worship services and when we have service as worship. If we are ashamed to own our discipleship as Peter was by the watch fire, our light does not shine.

In Matt 6, Barclay tells us that prayer had become a cottage industry in the Jewish faith. Many rabbis were sad that they could not pray all day long. There were prayers that had to be recited at least twice a day. In the morning t first light and in the evening before 9pm, the Shema was to be recited. These were, not only, long and complex, but they became a mumbled recitation that resembled some of our table graces that are repeated as Barclay called it, "gabbled". I would like it to meaningless drivel. There were even "Reader's Digest" versions to speed things up. The disciples knew what Jesus was talking about when he said not to try to overwhelm God with words. God invented the words. There was one Jewish prayer that actually began with sixteen adjectives attached to the name of God. The custom was that the Jew would try to position himself in a place of high visibility at the exact time for prayer. The top step of the synagogue was a good one. A busy street corner worked well. To make a show of the prayer was the purpose. We have all heard those that will pile words on top of words to make their prayers more notable. Prayer is important, but the public exhibition of prayer is an affront to God. The rabbis said that "Great is prayer; greater than all good works." Jesus spent a great deal of time telling how not to pray. He follows with instructions in Matt 6: 9-15 of how to pray. Barclay concludes that Jesus had two simple rules about prayer. 1. Jesus insists that all true prayer must be offered to God. 2. The God to whom we pray is a God of love that is more ready to answer our prayers than we are to pray.

All this is to say that when we read what Jesus had to say, we need to remember to look at why he is saying it and to whom he is saying it. Without the context, it is even more difficult to understand.

We finished, now, to begin again.

2011-11-05T18:25:00.003-05:00

We come to the last chapter of another Moore book. Will there be more? In his final chapter of Do You have Alligator Arms?, Moore focuses on the infinite possibilities of starting over. Most of us would like a "do over", but that usually isn't possible. The new beginning is nearly always a possibility. He list a number of situations that allowed for a new start and a new beginning. We are always excited by starting out, but the start over sometimes meets with doubt. Zacchaeus must have met with some skepticism from the community as he started over. His reputation was tarnished so heavily; that, some folks simply could not over look it. How did his family react to the reduced income and status in the community? Do you remember the reaction to Saul's conversion to Paul? One day he is an assassin and the next day an evangelist. Moore points out that only Luke tells the story of Zacchaeus. Luke is filled with stories of compassion for the least, the last and the lost. Only when they reached out and accepted the love of Christ were they able to begin again. Even in Jesus encounter with Zacchaeus, we don't know "the rest of the story". Jesus is able as Moore says, "to know who we are." Because if this Jesus is able to accept Zacchaeus. As He accepts, He forgives. Moore tells the story of his father's death and the way he found out about it. Guilt is almost his undoing; until, his pastor guides him to understanding. In beginning over, Jesus is the master. The world had messed up so badly on the first start that God gave; that, the only way to get it straightened out was to wipe the slate and start over. Jesus gave His life and we might live. Moore leaves us with the realization that acceptance, forgiveness and life are not gifts that we are allowed to hoard. Only when we learn to pass these gifts on to others, have we truly reached out and wrapped our arms around what Christ gives to us.

We must celebrate Barbara Hickerson's start over, this week. How will we help others to share in that new beginning? Alligator arms won't be able to reach out far enough to help. Prayer is a hug from God that we can send daily.

As we move to a new book maybe we should spend Advent looking at ways to accept a new beginning at Christmas?

Thanks to Dwyane for leading, this Sunday; as we prepare for the Two Tenors worship experience.

"I think it runs in our family,"

2011-10-28T21:12:00.002-05:00

There are some things that are just hard to define with words. Jim Moore builds a case for "Faith" being one of those words. Faith is hard to define, but so are the qualifying words. "More" faith is required to accomplish some things. "Lost" faith is the reason for failure in some cases. "Coincidental" faith is the explanation for one being saved from tragedy and others perishing. "Enough" faith is hard to determine; except, that you simply didn't have enough. The misunderstandings, distortions, half-truths and simple difference of opinion try to tell us that faith is bullet-proof body armor. We are protected from pain, sorrow and tragedy by an invisible shield, Moore, rightly, tells us that we cannot be born with the faith in God that it takes to face all the different situations in day-to-day life. Our DNA may be a help, but there is no automatic transfer or transfusion of faith at birth. He lifts Jacob as an example. Isaac is his father. Abraham is his grandfather. Two more positive examples of lives lived in complete faith to God cannot be found. Jacob seemed to be Teflon coated, when it came to faith in God. He was born grasping at his brother's heel. Refusing to share food with a starving Esau until a proper deal could be made for the birthright. In spite of all the family devotions and bible studies, Jacob cheated and lied to secure Isaac's blessing. Jacob was not the example of a virtuous brother and son. He was a master of lying, plotting, conniving, and tricking any and all who could benefit him. Moore puts it well, " We are Christians, not, by chromosomes, but by our won convictions and commitment." Jacob was a master barterer. He played "Let's Make a Deal" at every turn with God. It became obvious that God would be made the better, if all the preconditions laid out by Jacob were accepted. Moore lists at least five bargains that Jacob attempted. We are not immune from this sort of thing, are we? Think back to your prayers and the petitions that have been offered. We cast God in the role of ATM, healer, judge and jury, weather man, and any number of other roles, given the day's circumstances. Like Jacob, we come face to face with being between a rock and a hard place and have to wrestle with God and come to the unconditional surrender. Jacob now faces the need to own an unswerving allegiance to God. Read the litany of confessions that Moore lists on page 120: Old Testament witnesses, New testament witnesses, more recent historical witnesses and finally, the ultimate unswerving witness, Jesus. Did you ever play the child's game "Made you flinch" ? When did something swing at your faith and make you flinch?

Just another day in the punkin patch!!

2011-10-25T21:32:00.001-05:00

Jiminy Cricket is just a whistle away!

2011-10-21T21:16:00.002-05:00

The fairy god mother told Pinocchio to, "Always let your conscience be your guide." James Moore doesn't think that it is quite that simple, does he? Paul doesn't either, i.e.;

Romans 7:18-25"For I know that nothing good dwells within me, that is, in my flesh. I can will what is right, but I cannot do it.For I do not do the good I want, but the evil I do not want is what I do. Now if I do what I do not want, it is no longer I that do it, but sin that dwells within me. So I find it to be a law that when I want to do what is good, evil lies close at hand. For I delight in the law of God in my inmost self, but I see in my members another law at war with the law of my mind, making me captive to the law of sin that dwells in my members. Wretched man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord! So then, with my mind I am a slave to the law of God, but with my flesh I am a slave to the law of sin.

Even when Jiminy Cricket explained it to Pinocchio, it got confusing. Moore insists that we all do, in fact, have a conscience. The problem is that sometimes it gets out of kilter. Life's experiences can cause the conscience to be tricked or corrupted. We have become familiar with the corrupted file on the computer. Moore lists the Worn down conscience, circumstances simply wear the conscience down with repeated temptations. The Rationalized conscience is like situational ethics. "It will be okay in this situation given the circumstances." These people don't deserve a fair deal because they cheat all the time. The Consequence conscience is only concerned with getting caught. We don't worry about what we have done; as long, as we don"t get caught. Our Childish conscience is only concerned with the "Shall nots". We will be punished in relation to the number of rules we break. I have been told not to eat a lot of candy and sweets because they cause cavities. My conscience is pleased and complete when the dentist tells me that my teeth have been damaged. Just as our view of God can get out of whack when we forget to measure our knowledge of God against the measuring stick of Jesus. It has become a trite statement, but true, "What Would Jesus Do?"

Paul's words ring in our ears, "Wretched Man that I am! Who will rescue me from this body of death? Thanks be to God through Jesus Christ our Lord!"

How Hungry are You?

2011-09-24T15:30:00.002-05:00

James Moore begins to delve into the realm of righteousness in Chapter Six. John Wesley in his sermons on the Beatitudes, observes that. " Righteousness is every holy and heavenly disposition combined. Righteousness springs from, and ends in, love for God as our Father and Redeemer. It also includes love for all others for the sake of Christ." Moore looks at our hunger and passion for righteousness. It should be an all consuming appetite. Like the little dog, Datu, there should be an excitement, enthusiasm, and anticipation in our love for righteousness. That is how Jesus put it in the fourth Beatitude. Hunger and thirst are two of our most basic bodily appetites. Nothing but food and drink will satisfy those appetites. We become like the lost young man that was only interested in eating. He only wanted food! The description that Jesus gives of one that hungers and thirsts for righteousness is of one that is just as ravenous as the starving person. Moore, like Wesley, places righteousness on several levels. First is the personal righteousness that comes from "going on to perfection". When we are hungry for food, we look to the place that can provide what our body is calling for. Moore tells us that Jesus expects us to be that clear in our search for righteousness. This can be no willy nilly quest. We have to get a fix on the coordinates and go toward "morality, pursuing character and ethics and cleanness" In fact, it calls us to seek a new life and new direction with a renewed hope. When Jesus changed the water to wine at the wedding feast in Cana, there was no room left in the jars for water, only, new wine. Righteousness also calls upon us to hunger for the humane treatment of all in our society. Our souls will cry for those that are misused and abused and seek "new wine" for their circumstances in life. I have always found a strong symbolism in the fact that the Jews used wine for cleansing wounds. Jesus used that analogy to refer to his ministry; as, He set out to right the wrongs of the world. Finally, the word Righteousness means that the relationship with God will be reflected in "joining hands in ministry". Joining hands with each other and with God in right relationships to change our lives and all around us. The difficult part is; that, "religion" does not spell righteousness. Pray that you never lose the hunger and thirst that drives you to constantly seeks the "living water" of righteousness.

SALE!

2011-09-17T08:47:00.002-05:00

Read Philippians 4.

James Moore takes dead aim in Chapter 5 on society's "pranking" us by changing all the price tags and values in life. His story shows how it is hard to notice the changes in the "hurriedness" of our lives. The employees didn't notice the switched tags for four hours. Surely the customers knew that the prices were wrong, but chose to take advantage of the situation. One is a case of inattention and the other is a case of warped and unethical actions. Moore talks about: "They" change the price tags and values placed on things. The distorted values on the roles people play in our lives is a prime example. If the music is loud enough and the lights flashy enough, the concert tickets are very expensive. Yet, the music teacher in the school gets a pittance for their efforts. One situation gives an evening of ear-splitting emotion and the other instills a lifetime to love for and appreciation of music. The television programs have degenerated into a contest to reveal the lowest common denominator of human behavior. If what they are showing is reality, I prefer to live in another dimension. Moore asks a very pointed question. "Who broke into the store and switched the stickers..." Who decreed that vulgarity and bad language was funny? Do you agree with his assessment that humor, now, must be at someone else's expense? Cheap thrills bring the best price. Bonhoeffer says that the "Cost of Discipleship is not the result of cheap Grace." Paul states very clearly; that, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me."v. 13. How do we stand in the midst of the changing world around us and not be changed with it? Do we just accept and acquiesce to the noise about us? Should we be shouting back at the noise? I only remember one instance of Jesus raising his voice; yet, He had an impact on society then and now.

Moore offers some ideas for living in the middle of this time. We are called to live with purpose and meaning. John 3:17 clarifies the purpose of Jesus' coming. He didn't come to rail at and condemn the offenders, but to bring them salvation and grace. If all we ever are exposed to are the "realities" of the television and entertainment industry, will we be like Rapunzel? Do you remember what turned the world around for the Ugly Duckling? Suddenly, she realized that, not only, was she not a duck, but was a beautiful swan! The shows will make us think that the abnormal and obscene is normal and acceptable. Allowing them to shape our reality will detract from our purpose of revealing God's redeeming love to the world. The mirror does not reveal God's picture of us. The skin care and other products will not smooth away the wrinkled and withered inner nature. Are we to accept the values that are thrust upon us by a lazy and slothful society? The story of the magnificent team of horse illustrates what happens when we accept the lowered standards of society. We must know and follow the Master's voice; that, we hear over the din of society's call. "The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. "John 10:3 If we listen often to God's voice, we can know and trust it to lead us in the right direction. Finally, Moore leads us to; not only. have purpose and trust; but to wrap everything that we do and are in the beautiful love of God. Without that love we can become as hardened and bitter as the witch that locked Rapunzel in the tower. Don't forget that Rapunzel saw her beauty only when it was reflected in the eyes of the prince. How do others see themselves in the reflection in your eyes?

Do You Get It?

2011-09-09T09:31:00.002-05:00

We have received word that Debbie Ewing's brother died this week. Linda W. was kind enough to forward the message on to you. Please keep the family in your prayers. Debbie also shared the news that they are expecting their first grandchild in January. Happy news along with the sad news. We continue to pray for all those that are involved in floods, fires and hurricanes. This is the tenth anniversary of 9/11; try to take part in some service of remembrance.

As we move through Moore's book about alligator arms, This chapter deals with the ability to look at the world through someone else's eyes. I heard a pastor say that everybody needs a safe place to tell their story, and the church needs be a place like that. Jim Moore finds himself in jail, in this chapter, hearing the story of an "evil and violent" man. Would you be surprised if someone like that told a story that wasn't filled with anger and hate? Apparently, Jim was. The man's appearance was enough to frighten Hannibal Lecter. How would you feel if you were placed in a similar situation? His life is no less evil and violent, just because of the confession and contrition. Could any of us have compassion for him? How would you feel if it were just someone that had a severe disagreement with you? Could you be a "non-anxious" presence? How hard is it for us to stop and listen, really listen, to their story? Review the meaning of the words-mediator and arbiter. In which role do we most often place ourselves? I suspect that we usually prefer the role of arbiter because of our preference for clear cut "right and wrong" decisions. Now, we are called upon to look at our feelings about Judas. Moore mentions a movie that portrayed the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. Judas could be blamed for that trial happening. We are challenged to seek Judas's story. Was he a money grubbing turncoat? Was his only motivation, greed? Was he a covert agent for the Sanhedrin ? Was he just a plant to help the church authorities trip up Jesus before he could really mess up their operation? Or was Judas a pawn in the hands of destiny? Was he predestined to be the bad guy? Maybe Judas was like we are, at times, impatient with the speed of God's plan. If he could force Jesus' hand, Jesus would speed up his time line and bring down the forces of angels and throw the Romans out. Then they could get on with the establishment of The Kingdom. Did he just get scared and decide to "roll over" on Jesus? What is Judas' story? Moore offers some possibilities, in light of our human nature. Judas just missed the message. He just didn't "get it". His focus was on the wrong place(Kingdom). He missed the mandate. The focus on being successful overpowered the call to be faithful. In our haste, we can dig up the seeds to see why they haven't sprouted. We like mandates, if they call on God to do what we petition for. Judas probably missed the moment. Have you ever thought, "If I had only......." Oops! Was that one?

In God We Trust?

2011-09-02T15:50:00.003-05:00

Thanks, again, to Dwyane for leading the last two weeks. Ed Barker assures me that he is more than ready to get out and move about after his surgery.

Jim Moore continues to press us to expand our trust in God in all areas of our lives. Look at the money in your pocket or purse. Check each piece as see if it does, in fact, have the statement, "In God We Trust". If it was made after 1864, the inscription should be there. If the inscription is not there, it could be worth a great deal or worthless . Those who founded our nation believed that they were in a partnership with God. They knew that there some things that we leave to God's wisdom after we have done our best. (Read Ephesians 6:13.) After following the instructions that Paul has given, specifically, to the Ephesians, they are to stand firm and trust God. Moore asks us what we can entrust to God and what should we entrust to God? First, he tells us that we can entrust the personal pains, hurts and agonies to God. Instead of seeking revenge or retribution, we are to allow God to correct and bring healing to these situations. Most of the time, we would rather help God deal with those that cause us pain or misery. Maybe we feel that since scripture tells us, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay", we are just doing the work of God when we seek retribution. His story about the boy that carried burrs in his pocket shows that the only one that got scrapped by the burrs was the one carrying them. I have heard that there is no vessel capable of carrying hate and will harm the one carrying it as much as the intended victim. We would rather make sure that the job is done and done quickly, than, "Standing firm" and waiting in God's own time. It's not easy, but both Moore and Paul tells us that it's best to wait.

Second, The nations founders were not considered successful in many ways. Their treatment by the society and the Crown was not kind. Yet, all stood firm and didn't recant The Declaration of Independence. Moore says that to the people of Jesus' day, he looked like a failure. Easter proved otherwise. Lincoln looks like a failure at Ford Theater. A new and stronger nation proved otherwise. Stephen looks like a failure as he lay dying from the stoning. The witness and work of Paul proved otherwise. God continues to write history after we have done all that we can and simply, "Stand firm."

Third, Moore says that because we can entrust our personal pain and all our shortcomings to God, we can trust the future to God's hand. We see what God has done in the past and know that His strength is not diminished by time. When we put on all the armor that God has provided for us, we can trust that the outcome may not be what we want or expect, today, ultimately, it will be. Once again, we are reminded that we are not called to be successful, but are called to be faithful. We have all these witnesses: Abraham, Moses, Joshua,David, and ultimately,Jesus; that, show God will overcome. We should remember that: Hearing the Word initiates faith; Speaking the Word activates faith; and Doing the Word demonstrates the faith. All that enables us to "Reach out and Wrap Your Arms around Trust in God"; without a question mark.

Don't Hold Back--Reach for the future with long arms

2011-08-26T19:21:00.003-05:00

Thanks to Dwyane for leading the new study for these two weeks. I am covering the sound for Ed Barker at 9:45 because of his surgery this week. He is doing well and probably will be back next week.

James Moore has become a familiar friend and counselor. His words in "Do You Have Alligator Arms?" are comforting and at the same time challenging. In his second chapter, Jim has strung together some pearls about the familiar 13th Chapter of 1Corinthians. Sometimes, the familiar is hard to see. He is using its message and words to cause us to consider how we will live out our lives in a future that God provides for us. There is always the possibility that we will see it as humdrum and routine. Each day chases the next day into oblivion. Some view the future with much anxiety and stress. They are constantly worrying that what the future will bring. Jim puts it this way, "They are uncomfortable in the present, but dread the future even more." He is encouraging us to step into the future as believers. As people that believe in God by believing the future in. Sounds a little confusing, but he uses Paul's words to the Corinthians to help us understand. The Corinthians were participants in most of the world's forms of immorality. They lived in the midst of a society that had all these things down to a science. When Paul founded the church, all went well for a time. Soon, the temptation to let the church reflect the society; instead, of the society being shaped by the church took over. They were fighting and not living out the teaching of Paul and the example of Jesus. In the end, Paul tells them that they have to be a people of faith that live out the hope of Jesus' sacrifice and love each other in a way that reflected the love of Christ for them.

We can look at the words of Moore and Paul with the feeling that this is all well and good, but the world doesn't work that way. If we are going to live into the future with hope and a faith in God that causes us to love and serve others, action on our part will be required. If you are expecting God to do the impossible in your life, you will have to open your heart and mind to God's vision for your life. You will have to actively choose to step out in a strength not your own. It will require that you believe that God has the power to propel you into audacious prayers; that. lead to actions beyond what you thought was possible.

Covenant Class Members join Central's Mission Trip

2011-08-23T13:08:00.000-05:00

Barbara and Lee joined a group from Central to go do mission work at UMCORP Sager Brown.

Getting IT all together and offering God's love

2011-07-23T13:27:00.003-05:00

In the first five chapters of his book, Robert Schnase, outlines and details the five practices that make up Fruitful Living. In this final chapter, he brings IT all together in Offering God's Love. He reminds us that the purpose of any plant is to bear fruit. In the fruit are the seeds of future plants. Jesus uses this analogy many times and with many examples of the result of fruitfulness or the lack thereof. In Luke 10, Jesus sends out the disciples to all the places that He intends to go. The results of these visits is spelled out in that and other scriptures. "Fruit is new life. Fruit is growth. Fruit is future." Schnase wants us to keep in mind that our fruitful living will change who we are inside and by that change, transform the world for Jesus Christ through disciples. John Wesley is quoted on page 141 and I paraphrase with my version. "You can't salt half the soup.". Of course, Wesley said it much better. When we offer God's love to help others accept God's grace, it is much like the ripples on a pond. We never know how far the ripples will go or who they will touch. In nature seeds are scattered in many ways. Some take root close at hand and others are scattered by the wind or water and take root miles away. Our witness to God's love will be the same. Some will be affected close by and others will be affected by the next crop of seeds. We are accustomed to planting and harvesting on a set time table. Sometimes, God's time table may take a whole generation to happen. Our responsibility is to continually sow and let God tend the crop. Read the story of Mark and Diana on page 142 and continuing. Patience is as important as persistence. Friends are the logical ones to invite and to introduce to the experiences that their friends value. We just have to ask them to come and see. Isn't that what Philip did with Peter? Jesus invited disciples to "follow me." He invited in all areas of his world and society. In the move from stranger to disciple there is a driving force that compels all who have experienced the grace and love of God through Jesus to tell others. Yet the unwillingness to invite is probably a key element in the decline of mainline churches. Why the attitude," let those who know nothing of God's love come to their senses and show up at our place on Sunday morning."? Why this attitude? Schnase lists several things in play. First, the perception is that these things are so private and personal that we hesitate to speak openly about matters of faith and spiritual journeys. Second, we don't want to butt in on other people's lives by imposing our values on them. Third, planning to invite by praying and preparing seems manipulative and contrived. We feel that "planned spontaneity" is not spiritual. Fourth, we have the picture of the people on the street asking, "Are you saved?" Intrusive and almost abusive confrontation has been the model. Fifth, We really lack models for invitation by example and encouragement. Schnase urges us to "Offer God's love. Invite. Pray about it. Learn about it. Grace received becomes grace given." It seems that he is saying that we will only become good at inviting by practice. The first times it may be awkward and maybe even, stiff; but with practice and prayer, it will become a natural part of who we are.

As the Way Opens.

What does that mean? In the view that congregations are made up of groups in concentric circles, the outer circles are where the most opportunity for new spiritual growth seems to exist. That those least engaged in the activities of the church are the greatest opportunity for invitation. In the inner core that Bishop Schnase describes, there is an insulation to the mission of the church. We all speak the church language. We all are surrounded by pastors, lay leadership, district superintendents, bishops, staff and other "churchy" people. Schnase makes the point that if he is unable or unwilling to fulfill a mission that he is asking others to do; he should not expect them to fulfill the mission. It the leadership doesn't tithe, they shouldn't expect the congregation to follow suit. If leadership does not learn to be inviting and authentically do it, they shouldn't expect the rest of the congregation to do so. Read the example on pages 153 and 154. Do you think this is the exception or the rule? Now what about the conversation overheard in the airport? What turned the conversation positive? What level of opportunity is shown by these stories in our everyday lives? What do you think when you see some broken green glass? What does the Coca-Cola story tell us about a congregation?

Bearing Witness in All Things

When John Wesley sent out the missionaries to the colonies, his admonition to them was, "Offer them Christ." He is quoted on page 157 from his famous "Think and let think" sermon. Does coercion ever work? I vote with Schnase when he says,"Love is the key to unlocking the door to ultimate reality, and in the community of Christ we intentionally practice receiving God's love, loving God in return and loving others." It boils down to the invitation to others to change their internal lives and only when we have shown them that it works in our lives is that a valid invitation. They come to say and think, "I want what you have.". Only when they see that it has mace a difference in your life will they believe it is worth the cost. "Witness is more than verbal invitation. It is a way of life that invites God to work through us."

Offering God's Love

An invitation to attend a church service or event is an invitation to have a brush with the Spirit of God. Even when we know that this is only a brush and not an indoctrination, we must invite. We must trust that only God knows what the time line is. We are expected to offer the climate for God's work to occur. Sympathy, listening, accepting. caring, and not patronizing, guilt-inspiring, and manipulative intrusive behavior are needed. It is not about numbers on the role, people in attendance, or survival of an institution. It is about the changing of lives through the love of God and connecting people to a community of believers that will carry them forward in their spiritual journey and support them in times of trial and trouble. Schnase says it very well," Procrastination is disobedience in slow motion and so they don't postpone, avoid resist, or deny the importance of offering God's love....Our experiencing grace and following Christ remain incomplete until the love of god flows through us into others." The five practices make up IT. If we keep practicing, we just might get IT.

Grace filled Giving continues

2011-07-16T16:05:00.004-05:00

As we continue looking at what Extravagant Generosity looks like and what causes it to happen, Schnase makes us look at our attitude about OWNERSHIP. Specifically, who owns all the material goods and wealth in this world? Do we? Does God? The answer to those questions will determine our use of those things. If we believe that God is the ultimate owner, we will use them for the glory of God's purposes. If, on the other hand, we believe that the material goods belong to us and we entirely possess them, that will allow us to use them for our pleasures and purposes. That allows God to be eternally grateful for all that we give to God's purposes. Taking the long view, all that we use and have stewardship over, has been here a long time and will be here a lot longer. The land that we use and feeds us and our family is ours to manage and enrich for the next generation. We can have a permanent effect if we abuse it. We can have a permanent effect if we enrich it. As I look around at the area that my family has lived in for at least four generations, it is apparent who has been a good steward and who hasn't. I have seen good people work from daylight to dark thinking that they were going to get something done permanently. A few years after they are gone, it was evident that there was little permanence in their efforts. The harsh reality was that they weren't up to changing the landscape. Our stewardship is temporary, but important.

Contentment is attained by the heavy application of humility. Paul says it well in Phillipians4:11. Schnase says it well, "Breaking the cycle of conditioned discontent requires courageous soul work." We cannot experience contentedness from bigger homes, faster cars, or a large increase in income. What brings you contentment? Does it last? Think about Schnase's list of things that form contentedness in us.

Choosing not to spend all of our wealth on self.
Developing a sense of gratitude for all of God's gifts. "Suffiiency causes us to focus on what we have rather than upon what we lack."
Sustained by the practice of purpose, connection, love service, friendship, family generosity in cooperation with the Holy Spirit.

The Tithe has been a response to God'a gifts for many hundreds of generations. The tithe grew out of a sense of paying God for the things that have been done for you and the things that you have been given. True to our human nature, we began to write it as a law and made payment of the tithe(10% of our income) a legal requirement for acceptance into the faith community. Some view it as a tax on God's goodness. Is it just a antiquated law that has no relevance in today's complex society? Jesus did not rescind the practice, but commended it. He criticized the Pharisees for making it a show of piety, but he did not tell them to stop tithing. John Wesley and others have held the church members accountable for their tithe. What has been your experience with tithing? How did you form your opinion or practice of tithing? Schnase expresses it in a way that makes me see that in this area as in other areas our views have been shaped more by our affluence than our faith. Can you give some examples? In the end, we have an opportunity to grow spiritually as we become disciplined givers. We can become First Fruit givers and set aside an amount from our income that we will "tithe". It is difficult to climb a flight of stairs in one step. It is almost impossible to accelerate to highway speed instantly from a dead stop. Some find it just as hard to go from erratic giving to a 10% tithe, but by starting somewhere and dedicating that fixed amount to the gift, we can grow to the point of a true tithe.(and beyond)

Why Not?

Fear.
It requires dedicated effort to attain.
They will get around to it when they can afford it.
They do not have the support of their family members.
We really shouldn't be talking about money in church.

Why? Two coins dropped by a widow have been recorded by Jesus for all to see and hear about Extravagant Generosity forever.

The Practice

It does stretch us to give Extravagantly. It will not be out of duty, burdensome, mandated or paying our fair share. It is giving in the manner that God has set as an example. It becomes and act of love and not legality. Be aware that the practice will change lives. There will no longer be a price to pay or a bargain to be made. The giving will be done with no expectation of a profit or a margin of income over expenses. "Love is a gift, and life is grace."

How are we asked to do something as though it is for the very first time? The violin player became an artist when he broke out of the set repertoire and began "making music". Isn't that what happens when we are in harmony with God? Have we played the same old tune so long that we think that is all there is? What is your number one thing that prevents you from giving Extravagantly? What one thing enables you to be an Extravagantly Generous Giver?

Sorry for the last posting. The last three days have been event filled and productive.

From the Grace of Risking to the Grace of Giving

2011-07-08T21:01:00.003-05:00

Robert Schanse has led us through Radical Hospitality that allows us to receive God and invite Him into our lives; Passionate Worship that causes us to love in God in return as He shapes our hearts and minds with Intentional Faith Development; we become partners in ministry with God and the Holy Spirit as we practice Risk-Taking Mission and Service and in this fifth chapter, he moves us into the realm of Extravagant Generosity.

It is a natural progression of our spiritual growth. Through out scripture, there are stories of people practicing the concept of first fruits. There are stories of people that gave their last cent (or two cents) and people that walked by the hungry beggar, literally at their door, to live lavishly and without regard for anyone other than themselves.(Luke 21:1-4; Luke 12:16-21). How we use money matters to God. Giving opens our souls to God's lead. (Luke 6:38). The root of generosity is God's love. (John 3:16) Where God's Spirit is present, people give. (Romans 11:33-36) John Wesley was strong in his belief about giving to God. Page 118 has his philosophy pretty well summed up. Schnase tells us,"No stories from Scripture tell of people living the God-related spiritual life while fostering a greedy, self-centered, self-serving attitude. Knowing God leads to generosity."

Schnase breaks the issue into several segments:

What does it matter?

Giving Helps Congregations Thrive

When congregations thrive, they have the resources to reach more people for Christ and to make disciples. They work with a greater confidence and fervor. They are invested in the process.

Giving aligns Us with God's Purposes

Giving allows us to carry out the purposes that God places on our hearts. Helping, Teaching, Relieving Suffering, and other calls from God to serve and transform the world.

Giving Changes Us Inside

It relieves us of the burdens of greediness, selfishness, self-centeredness, and self-absorption. Our motivations change. Our desire to acquire everything the consumer market tells us to want, is moderated by giving.

Giving Fosters a Healthier Relationship to Money

God does not expect us to live in poverty, but to balance the needs of our families for the basic needs of food, shelter, education and health with living with purpose. If we take the view of the world, we will only try to make 20% more this year than we made the year before or some such goal. It is a goal that is ever slipping through our fingers as it recedes ahead of us. "We wallow in abundance while suffering from a self-proclaimed scarcity." How much land do we need? What did Tolstoy's story reveal to you? About you? "We are surrounded by inducements that make us acutely and painfully aware of what we lack, more so than of what we have. "God protects us from the pangs of greed." What does that mean?

Giving Encourages Intentionality.

Intention causes us to purposefully look at what we have and what we accumulate in the light of, what does it mean? If we intend to do something with what we accumulate, we will have to plan for that to happen . That requires some action and some disciplined practice of giving with regularity.

Giving Deepens Our Relationship With God.

If all we ever think about is the acquisition of material riches, there is little room left for God. Material possessions must prove to be the sail that allows us to be in ministry in God's name. They must not be the anchor that keeps us safely in the harbor tied up and unable to follow God's call. The things that we have enable us to launch out into the spiritual challenges that open up and deepen our relationship with God. "Generosity feeds our love of God."

Giving Honors Christ's Sacrifice

God has shown us the ultimate generosity in the giving of His Son. We can be transformed by giving extravagantly with what we have been given. (Scripture?)

If we follow the pattern of the last four chapters we will probably not get further in the discussion that this. If we do, I can report the result of our discussion. Do look at the first three questions for reflection.

Ownership

Contentment

The Tithe

Why Not?

The Practice of Extravagant Generosity

As If For The First Time

Learning to Risk and becoming good at it.

2011-07-02T18:18:00.002-05:00

As we discussed and learned in the first session on loving and serving others, some of the issue is learning why we do what we do. The beginning is to accept the role that God wants us to fulfill in the service to others. Schnase reprints on page 98 the Covenant Prayer that John Wesley composed. The theme of this prayer is one of accepted servanthood. The willingness to become whatever God calls you to be at any given time. We touched on the training of the heart, last week, but now we look at the possibility of intentionality in that training. Following God on a day by day basis causes us to be willing to accept the role(s) that are laid at our feet as they occur. The prayer allows God to lead us into a productive and active ministry or asked to step aside for the sake of God's ministries. It is a prayer of acceptance of God's control over all of our lives. We will need to train our hearts to be ready to accept that control. Schnase lists Lance, Shirley,Ana, Ruth, Earl, Jan,and Sondra as examples. Some started early in life and continued for years, others started late and worked into the twilight. Be prepared for God to call any time. Read Barbara's comment to last week"s blog. View the interruptions and inconveniences as ministry. The training of the heart will allow us to overcome the fear of the unknown. It will not remove the fear. Through this training, God will help us overcome the fear. Remember we discussed the usual barter system that works so well in the world market. Reread Luke 6:31-36. Then forget the return on the investment(wordly).As we listen with our hearts we move TOWARD the suffering and accept the vulnerability that comes from a trust in God's support. Training the heart to trust, we will have the courage to do the right thing when called to act. Through the training of the heart and the acceptance that God will sustain us in what we are called to do, we will affect the world around as we touch lives and others see our actions. a good example is the impact that the theology professor had on his student, not so much, by what he taught, but by what he did.(p.104). Our example is Jesus as he went places with people that were not acceptable to society. The names have changed since Jesus walked with them, but the ministry stays the same. The homeless, the poor, the marginalized, the rich and famous, AND the people of the religious community. When we say that an attorney practices law or a doctor practices medicine or some other profession practices their skills, we don't necessarily mean that they are just practicing. The practice of Risk-Taking Mission and Service are the same. We will be obedient to the discipline of the true disciple by obediently applying what God has trained us and called us to do, Always serving others in a Grace filled way on a daily basis.

Risky Business

2011-06-25T09:01:00.002-05:00

The fourth of the Practices of Fruitful Living is Risk-Taking Mission and Service. This may be the most convoluted and difficult of the Practices. There are many perspectives and moving parts to this effort. Schnase starts with the scripture in Matt. 16:24-25. The confusion begins as Jesus tells his disciples that in order to save their lives; they must lose them. He goes on to explain what that means. With the perspective of 2,000 years of study and learning, we understand it better than they did. Yet, Schnase's first question is still valid and needs to be answered. "Why Serve?" "Why would I want to do that?" There are many things that influence our answer to these and other questions. Our personal history with the passions and fears that result from that history will color our decisions related to "doing that". Schnase lists three general reasons. First, some serve out of a sense of duty or obligation. Second there are thos who serve because helping others contributes to the social fabric of human life. Third, some serve out of a sense of personal satisfaction for themselves. He then develops the issues that cause us to live out the call of Jesus to serve. What causes us to serve out of a sense of obligation, improving the social fabric or self satisfaction. In truth, we respond to the call, sometimes, intuitively and sometimes instinctively. We may stop and weigh the risk and cost of that response or we may just act and respond to the situation as the Good Samaritan did. Schnase points to Paul's words in Romans 14:7-8. In essence, we are all related and interwoven in the fabric of society. Again, Jesus tells us in Mark's gospel(8:35); that, we will lose our lives if we try to save them. There is the need to invest our lives in service to others. Otherwise,can we bear true witness to the reality of Jesus' call to be givers and not takers? Schnase sums up much of the issue when he says, "Our hearts turn outward to others and we follow Jesus toward them or we focus inwardly and away from others and go our own way." The questions continue. What difference can one person make? The example of Jennifer's story is found on page 96. What is changed and who benefits from that change? "If everyone thinks that nothing can be done, then nothing will be done."(pg.97) The long view is the one that knows that we will never get through with the mission, but someone else will pick it up when we are gone. In the section on training the heart, he gives examples of what the effect is of accepting the risk to be in mission and service. Do you identify with any of these? Schnase makes a point in this section. You can start at any point in your life. As a child, when I would say that I couldn't do a certain thing, I was informed that I couldn't learn it any younger. We don't start where we wish we were, but where we are. There are things that take a long time to accomplish. While we can become "weary in well-doing", quitting is not an option. The word Risk in interjected here because there is a price to pay for the gains that we will make. These things take us "where Jesus leads, even when, it is uncomfortable, awkward and unexpected and costly." United Methodists have always stood in the gap when it comes to social change, political active and community causes. The danger comes when we lose sight of Jesus' call and purpose and simply become involved in the cause without keeping our spiritual roots intact. We have seen this happen over the generations as the "cause" became more important than the ministry. Jesus was an instrument of social change, but he never lost his integrity or touch with God. I would liken this to the undercover police officers that become what they have come to remove from society. Risk is overcome by replacing fear of the unknown(or the known) with the love of Jesus. He ate with sinners, but didn't sin. He ministered to lepers, but didn't become a leper. He never condoned the mistakes and sins, but he ministered to and loved those who made the mistakes. Nothing becomes a skill with one lesson. Risk-taking is no different. We know that we cannot predict or necessarily affect the outcome. There is uncertainty and the possibility of failure. If this sounds like less than fun or easy, you have broken the code. If it were so easy and always fun, -God wouldn't have had to send Jesus to show us the way. Our role, as we have discussed, is to mentor the next generations and help them to catch the spirit of ministry. We must always remember to keep the efforts grounded in Grace. “Each step is grace driven. Each practice trains the heart.”

Just how intentional are you?

2011-06-17T20:47:00.002-05:00

We have discussed the elements that make intentional faith development possible and necessary. We agreed that it is much easier and more productive if we are on the journey with others seeking the same destination. The interchange of ideas opens us to the ideas and concerns of others. It is easy to get frustrated and confused when we become our own class. Jesus asked the man in John 5:6 if he really wanted to be made well. I believe that Schnase is asking us to answer a similar question. Do we really want to grow and learn what Jesus would have us do? It is always so easy to just stay where we are. If I were to learn more of what Jesus wants me do, I might have to do it. Studying in community causes me to be accountable in living out what I understand. I believe it was Mark Twain that said the the part of the Bible that he didn't understand was not the problem. The problem came from the part that he did understand. Without the support of our fellow Christians, we probably won't follow through on our moral resolve. The encouragement and mutual care that we receive from those on the journey with us will keep us on track and focused. The question comes again. Why the hesitance to begin the journey or continue when we hit a tough spot. Are we willing to accept the fact that we may not know all the answers and might not ever know them? Our lives are busy. There are only so many hours in a day and we can't really spend all that time in study when there are so many things calling for our attention. I remember reading, "THE URGENT ALWAYS OVERRIDES THE IMPORTANT." Intentionality requires some priorities being set. It takes an effort to establish a good habit. Are we satisfied with where we are in our spiritual journey? I have found that my laziness is overcome more easily if I must study to teach. That is probably the reason that I have taught SS almost continuously all my adult life. It requires that I spend time learning and growing(hopefully). How do you find the time and commitment to intentionally develop your faith? What stimulates your curiosity about your spiritual life? I recall a friend telling me that he read a book about death and was so much in disagreement with the author; that, he decided to study until he formed his own beliefs. Personally, having a discussion that causes me to rethink or to research what I believe is very helpful. Study the questions on page 86. What do they say to and about you? How do we combat the effects of comfort on our journey?
We discussed, several weeks ago, interacting with the youth and children in Central. How is that working out? Do you now know some of their names or at least their faces? We might want to remember that we are in the church because someone remembered our name. That gave us value and made a difference in our lives. Share your experiences.

PRAYER CONCERNS
Lee and Pat Johnson are with her sister, this weekend. Pat's sister was diagnosed with lung cancer. They are there to provide support. We need to be in prayer for them as they go.
Barbara Fry's sister has also been diagnosed with cancer.
Barbara Hickerson, Melody Sowder, and Emily Fogelman will be returning from the mission trip; so, keep them in prayer.
Carl and Linda, Brad and Alisha need our prayers as they begin a new chapter in their ministries. Ben and Andrew will need our prayers and support as they are transplanted and become "our children".

This Is The Week That Was

2011-06-11T07:47:00.004-05:00

This has been a "happening" kind of week. Shepherding the process and facilities of The Central Texas Annual
Conference was interesting. Many folks helped Pat and I to welcome and seat the 1100 members and the 500+ visitors and guests. The construction, or lack of construction, at the Waco Convention Center was a challenge, but the folks were gracious and accepting. There was worship, learning, and business to join in. There was beautiful music in the worship services at First UMC that lifted our spirits and sent our souls seeking God. In the midst of it all Dr. Adam Hamilton brought us to new realizations of what God calls us to to do and to be. In his presentations, he led us to want to do what would be impossible(without God) that is very possible with God, if we will just follow the Spirit's prompting. Some of you know of him and his ministry at The Church of The Resurrection in Leewood, Kansas. If you are interested in hearing the presentations, go to ctcumc.org and click on the link for: "Leading Beyond The Walls."

Sitting and listening to him, Robert Schnase's, Five Practices, was prominent in my mind. The time that we spent with Adam Hamilton, tied in with the chapter that we are launching into this week. The Practice of Intentional Faith Development. The need to intentionally engage in learning was never more evident on Sunday evening and Monday. Here were over a thousand "church" people; many, with advanced degrees in theology. People with years and years of Bible study and church school experience, leaning into the study that Adam offered. Listening intently and learning from his experience and clear thinking.

Robert Schnase presses hard on the adjectives that he uses to define the Five Practices. Radical, Passionate, and , now, Intentional. There is a difference in "Intentional" faith development and faith development. When I go to a doctor, I want someone that has intentionally studied medicine in an accredited university. Not, someone that has kind of picked up medical knowledge through observation. Schnase has described the purposeful learning as "Growing in Grace". Sanctifying grace is an on going process; that, John Wesley described as "going on to perfection". " Santification involves us growing in faith and how the Holy Spirit works within us to help us mature in Christ." Not ever getting there, but always on the journey. Intentional ratchets up the commitment and consistency, according to Schnase. In the process, he lists, priority, purpose, consistency, persistence, and commitment as necessary components. First, we learn in community as Jesus taught us to do. The early church modeled this very well. Methodists have always viewed spiritual growth as a community affair with the societies, classes and bands. It is never to be considered a solitary effort. Growing in Grace is a matter of perspective which gives us a broader view of of what is involved than we can attain for ourselves. It is a matter of Spiritual Awareness that enables us to see what has been hidden by familiarity, routine or simple inattention. It is a matter of Spiritual Sustenance when we pray for, study with and learn to hope in the community. it allows us to survive and thrive in the face of adversities that would be insurmountable alone. We feed off of the faith of others as we feed those around us. It is a matter of Moral Resolve when the community helps us to overcome our natural ability to make poor choices. It is almost a 12 step program for Christians Anonymous (Matt. 18:20). It is a matter of Spiritual Encouragement because when we see what God does in the life of another, we take hope that we can do the same. There is a spirit of common purpose that causes us to act on our convictions. It is a matter of Mutual Care when we care for one another. The act of praying for and being prayed for is a great way of spiritual growth. With all these benefits why do we hesitate to begin Intentional Faith Development? Why the resistance? "I don't know which Bible to bring". "I don't know anyone in the group." "They might expect me to pray." "I'm not that religious" "Those people don't believe like I do." "I know some of them and they are so snooty.""I don't like to be hugged." Schnase says, "When we remain too busy or too resistant, God's attemts to reach us are like a pencil on glass and we remain unchanged." If we wait until we "have time", it's probably not going to happen.

So, Schnase says that we have to practice, practice and then practice some more. In the second paragraph on page 86, he sums up was is required and how long we will need to keep at the task. Read the second question on that page and think about what it means in your life.

Pray for Carl and Linda and Brad and Alisha, Barbara Hickerson and those on the mission trip with her.

Picture Day June 26th

2011-06-06T18:39:00.000-05:00

Bring your smiling faces for the Class Picture where the Brittian's can figure out who we are.

Ice Cream Social and meet the Brittains

2011-06-06T18:38:00.002-05:00

Saturday July 16th @ 2:00 PM at Marilyn and Gary's

Continuing to worship

2011-06-04T08:31:00.002-05:00

There was a general consensus around the table that worship involves our entire being. That God touches us to the very core of who we are. As we engage the spirit, worship brings us back to the realization of who we are and whose we are. I heard the view that worship is both an anchor and a sail. We both lose ourselves in worship and find ourselves in worship. Schnase talks about losing ourselves in the world, our family, our job and in multiple other places. When we stand before God alone and revealed, we see God's creation that is us. The boundaries are there us and we are defined as a person. This frees us to see God and the potential that we are. It seems that Schnase is wanting us to look at our relationship with God on a very personal basis and not what we do as a congregation or denomination. It is a freeing experience that removes the chains of ritual or rote method of worship and allows us to be "settled in God and anchored in Christ". Worship, while planned and scheduled, should contain the element of the mysterious. We can see the order of worship, but also know that all that happens is not on the printed worship guide. The act of taking communion may seem routine, until, we see the reaction of another or experience a moment of revelation. We have discussed the strong effect that music has on us and our worship experience. Schnase points to the community that is developed by singing as a congregation. We join our imperfections with the perfection of others to make the chorus that must be pleasing to God because for just a few moments, we are united. Maybe the worship service is planned and there is an "order of worship", but there is a beauty to the flow that leads us to recognize God and God's call on our lives. We gain much from the corporate worship; but if we wait for the gathering of the faith community for worship, we will miss many opportunities for worship. Schnase points out the obvious. We don't develop a meaningful relationship with some one we never spend time with. Constant and continuing conversation(prayer) prepares us to hear God's voice in the midst of a busy day. Schnase lists a number of things that get in the way of worship. The commitment of time, the element of ridicule by peers, the awkwardness of going to unfamiliar settings and "Busyness" are a few of the things that provide roadblocks to worship. There are internal and external things. Maybe we don't feel worthy to be in close relationship with God. Who is? No one is worthy to pick up a fine instrument and play the first time. Yet, that is the only way to get proficient. No one can give a speech the first time. We develop through practice. Our first prayers and efforts at devotion will be awkward and stiff. Finding that God really doesn't care what or how you pray, is a liberating thing. If we become enthusiastic and open, there is the chance that we will develop a good habit. I think it was Bonnie that said we approach God wholeheartedly and openly to the possibilities in the experience of God's presence. Schnase poses some questions on pages 64 and 65. Let your mind wander through those and see what thoughts and memories surface. Who did you sit next to in worship that caused you to be more mindful of God? What one thing sparked an awareness that God was glad you were there? Bring those thoughts with you and share them. Someone may need to hear that very thing.

Covenant Class Welcoming the New Pastor and Family

2011-05-29T20:44:00.000-05:00

From July 11th to July 17th we will be welcoming Rev Brad, Alicia, Ben and Andrew. Plans are being made.

Loving God in return.

2011-05-28T10:13:00.002-05:00

Roberts Schnase has presented so much thought provoking material in each chapter of his book; each chapter could be a study in itself. We may want to approach it that way. You chose to spend two sessions on Radical Hospitality and Passionate Worship may require more than one look.

We will need to be in prayer for those participating in worship at the Church Under the Bridge. This is an active passionate worship setting. Barbara Hickerson and Dwyane Warneke will definitely be in our prayers as well as all the others in that pleasant surrounding.

Worship is a word that could be parsed in so many ways. It means so many things to each of us in different settings. We have spent time getting our minds around the concept of accepting God's Radical hospitality and inviting God into our lives with radical hospitality. There are .many examples of worship in scripture. A large segment of the Old Testament is given over to worship int he book of Psalms. Remember the many ways that David worshiped? Sometimes, face down in penance, sometimes dancing and singing, and sometimes just hiding in a cave.... Schnase begins the chapter with a story of an awkward beginning for a young mother. Linda is entering into a world foreign to her with a unfamiliar language. A good follow up on hospitality. She has made the effort to brave the circle of familiarity for the church goers. What turns the tide for her? We all know the awkwardness of going into a new circle of people and being relieved when we see someone that we know or an "interpreter" or a guide appears and comes to our assistance. The old cliche "They don't care how much you know; until they know how much you care.", fits very well here.

In a quick overview of the elements of worship, Schnase moves into the essentials of expressing our love of and for God. We seek God through prayer, story, music song fellowship and mutual compassion. This is to permeate all of our being and opens us up to what we know as justification. In this act, we make a conscious decision to receive God's Grace and love. The concept of a time of worship that was separate and apart from the rest of our lives was probably foreign to the Jewish people. They had no word that meant secular world. All was for and of God. Worship does matter. Schnase sayas that it points us toward God and allows us to discover the transcendent and spiritual things of life. In other words, the mysterious and sacred elements as we push aside for a time the mundane and the day-to-day. It allows us to involve more of our senses in that exploration. It causes us to set aside the conscious, linear and rational thought. He lists the mystery of becoming one body in Christ as we break the bread and share the juice as one example. There is a practical side to the acts of worship. It requires that we go often to a place( and not always the same place, necessarily) to seek and engage the Spirit. It is an intentionally sought out experience and place. The choice is made to be materially unproductive. Not the American way, right? We have a Centering time in our worship services. That gives us a chance to actually focus our being on engaging God in order to ground, or connect, or anchor ourselves in God. I have frequently been reminded that, "The urgent always trumps the important". Worship allow us to focus on the ultimate important thing in our lives. We can get lost in the trauma of society, the upheaval in our family, or even the stress of our vocation. Worship allows God to break through and find us and bring us back home. God, then, can purpose our lives in the direction or directions that are most pleasing and re-creative.

If we think it is difficult to define worship, add the word "passionate" and more issues arise. For some, passionate will mean emotional and loud, for others much physical activity, still others will feel only in quiet times alone can we realize the true passion. Schnase will define passion as something that involves our whole being--mind, body and spirit. It will be authentic not just surface swimming. Ps 100 is very descriptive. It will not necessarily be a performance, but could be triggered by one. So, it is all of the above or none of the above. It is the way that God opens your soul and pours in the Spirit. So much of what we consider worship is hearing, read the box on page 52. How do the deaf experience worship? There is the mystery of Worship. He lifts the elements that make up worship and how music in involved. There is the personal aspect of worship and devotional time. Elements of resistance to worship and the practice of passionate worship are two sections in the chapter. He closes with another story which could be the conclusion or "rest of the story" of the first story. I think you are probably tired of reading; so, I will save more thoughts for later in the week after I have learned from you what the real answers are.

Excuse me I wasn't paying attention.

2011-05-20T22:16:00.002-05:00

As we continue the discussion about receiving God's love, we consider the distractions, defenses and complicity that keeps us from experiencing and receiving the love that God is so freely gives. In a time of constant and profuse material wealth and opportunities that has been available since World War II, we have become immersed in the pursuit of happiness through things. We have and are blessed with such a level of progress that it would seem that happiness would simply be an unavoidable state of being. Yet, in spite of having the security of increased longevity, protection from the natural elements, instant communication, and on and on we can go with the list of blessings. The song " Count Your Blessings, Count them one by one" would take seemingly forever to recount all the blessings. Still, there is the myth that happiness only comes from having the exact thing that the latest advertisement tells us what will bring happiness. We swim just below the surface of life and seek satisfaction through the right shampoo or the latest gadget that will distract from the ministry that God calls us to do. It is much easier to play a game on the computer or video box that deals with virtual reality. It may be a sport or a war game or some other pursuit that involves only ourselves or a group on the internet competing in a mindless and faceless way. This way, we avoid the risk of having to deal with real people that do not respond predictably and impersonally. Dealing with other human beings gets messy and irritating because we can not control their emotions or reactions. Life was not always this way. The tasks might have been repetitive and boring. The interaction with real people made the day special or different. We now are distracted by the busyness of things and activities. Religion can be just as vacuous as the rest of life if we are not asking the right questions. In a book that I read, a Christian asked an atheist to attend various worship services with him. The atheist frequently asked after being in a worship service or other event, "is that what Jesus told you to do?" We need to be intentional in the accepting of God's love to be a good host and practice radical hospitality by sharing the joys and meaning of the gifts that God gives us. Distractions come from within and without. Intense study and devotionals should press us to share the insights that have been revealed to us. We must not simply find another way to study and learn without ever sharing that learning or inspiration. Re-read the 15th chapter of Luke. Decide the source of distraction in these three stories.

Schnase urges us to be open to SEEING the activities of Grace that surround us. Are we too busy to even pay attention to what God is trying to show us? Is the beautiful sunset just a bright light in your eyes that
you can't wait to get away from? Look around and see the wonder of God. Spend time with a child and watch all the "new" things that fascinate them. We simply accept these as common or ordinary. Try to spend time in the company of an "infant" Christian. Rediscover with them the incredible things that God has opened up to their minds. Their enthusiasm is contagious. The things that are humdrum and ordinary are new and shiny to them. (2Corinthians 5:17.) Read Mitch's story on pages 34-35. How do you practice radical hospitality with God? Schnase says that we must practice both the attitude of receptivity and intentional practice. In other words put yourself in situations that will open up the possibility of God's presence. I would not expect to feel the presence of God in many of the secular events of society. If I want healing, I am more likely to find it in the presence of a doctor. God is always there. We must pay attention to know that this is true. Schnase puts it this way. We ask the question, "Am I pleased with my life?" That needs to be balanced by the question,"Is God pleased with my life?"
It si much the same in the relationship with God that happens in any relationship. When we accept the reality of being accepted, the relationship can grow. We want to go where we are accepted. Say yes to God's gift of grace and unconditional love. Then, be intentional in being surrounded and immersed in that love. The questions asked on pages 40 and 41 are not one time questions. They are new for each day. Listen for God's voice for the answers.

Swim a lot deeper

2011-05-14T09:24:00.002-05:00

It's interesting that last week we discussed getting in deeper relationships with the youth and children of Central and the community. What we will be doing is helping them know that they are loved even before we know their names. Schnase is giving us some of the same advice and counsel that Lucado has given us in the last three books, but that shouldn't deter us from paying attention. The Bible has been telling us the same thing for a long time. When we start to practice something, that doesn't mean that we are just warming up for the real game. Schnase wants us to realize that this isn't a dress rehearsal. Doctors practice medicine and Lawyers practice law, but not in the same sense as ball players practice, do they? In both cases, the desire is to get better at what they do. In medicine, law and any other profession, the practice is really the use of skill learned and knowledge acquired. We all know that God loves us, don't we? The problem, as we look at our lives and how we live them, is that we have trouble understanding and accepting that God could ever love someone that acts like we do. Schnase points out that we live in a society and time that is so blessed that it should be impossible to be unhappy. We have everything that we could possibly need and enjoy a level of freedom unsurpassed. Then, he begins to list the reasons that this may not be so. In the section on Distraction, Defenses and Complicity, we find that there are influences in and on our lives that are not God driven. That comes as areal surprise, doesn't it? He writes about the difference in living thinly and and living deeply. One of the first things that I learned in school and on the farm was that water has a surface tension that allows the wasps and water bugs to skate across without getting wet. One of the dangers we face is living like the bugs that skate across the water and never get beyond the surface. Schnase pushes us to realize that we can know that God loves us without ever getting below the surface . People live that way, congregations live that way and they are the poorer for it. It is very easy to skate along on the surface of , "How are you?". Granted, if we stop and listen or make the effort and really care, we probably will get wet. Accepting God's Grace is hard to do. On page 30 Schnase, asks us to look at the attitudes, hurts, guilt, etc. that keep us from accepting that God loved us before we were born and nothing we or anyone else can do will separate us from that love. He asks us to pay particular attention to Luke 13. Jesus lists some of the obstacles to accepting his love or losing our focus on that love. Can we really refuse to accept the grace? We are all taught as children to graciously accept gifts and help that are/is offered. As adults, we have become calloused to think that accepting help is a sign of weakness. Schnase lists several instances where a person's armor has been pierced and God has entered their life to bring joy and comfort. In some instances, it seems that we must actually become a new person because the skin that we are wearing simply doesn't fit. Do you remember that Jesus told us that he stands at the door and knocks.(Rev. 3:20) Schnase calls it showing radical hospitality to God when we open our lives and invite Him in. I remember that in the picture of Jesus standing at the door knocking, there is no handle on the outside. The door must be opened from the inside. A long time ago, I learned an open dorm room door is an invitation to come in. When we open the door to God and keep it open, God will enter and interrupt whatever we "think" is important. The open door also invites God to look in and applaud and bless what we are doing. In the closing pages of the chapter on Radical Hospitality, Schnase reminds us that this acceptance of God's Grace is not casual association. If we are to be truly and radically hospitable, the guest must always be welcome and not just when it is convenient. In these last page, he has closed the sale and told us what it takes to fulfill a selfless life lived in the close company of God.

Funny how things come about

2011-05-09T14:20:00.000-05:00

I had forgot to read Mr. Pat's post this week. I just got an email from Wes Perry asking me to forward a comment he had to Mr. Pat. (I assume he did not have Mr. Pat's email address) I forwarded it on to him and Wes thanked me. I thought what is this about a blog post and Wes making comments. I just read the blog post. To bad I didn't read it before Sunday school yesterday as it was most important to what Mr Pat was talking about. I went to the article he referred to http://www.umportal.org/article.asp?id=7848 and read the articles as well as going to the You Tube video that the writer offered.

Mr. Pat I get it. Thanks for your thoughts.

Do we really care?

2011-05-05T23:13:00.002-05:00

We finished the Lucado book and are in a quiet time. Before we launch on the Schnase book, maybe we could look at some of the directions and directives of our church. The United Methodist church has set four areas of focus to move the church into the future in a more healthy and robust way. All four are important. Developing principled Christian leaders for the church and the world; New places for new people and renewing existing congregation; Engaging in ministry with the poor; and Stamping our killer diseases of poverty by improving health globally are all major focus points for our church. Too often we have set a quadrennial goal that was attempted and then abandoned at the end of the four years to move on to some other lofty goal for another four years. In 2008, we set our faces toward these focus points with the intent to pursue them until they are significantly affected. Three are focus points that require money expertise and some power. The first is in the grasp of every United Methodist. "Developing principled Christian Leaders for the church and the world" is a possibility for any of us. There are within our scope of influence in Central or any other faith community young folk that have a wealth of talent and passion just waiting the opportunity to change the way the church does ministry. Too often, we see them in the hall or in worship and think that they are unaware of us. I want to challenge us as a class to begin to encourage and mentor those around us. Some are young adults with children; some are just the noisy children in the Children's church; some are teenagers that seem preoccupied with listening to an iPod or texting on their phone, but they are all opportunities to be accepted. Check out this: COMMENTARY:Is the UMC really committed to young peoples ministries--umportal.org After you read this I challenge you to find one or two of the young people and learn their names. Offer to pray for them and what ever they consider important. I have been doing this for some time, now, and the results are amazing. We can't worry about their attending church or becoming active; just let them know that you care and your life will be richer and theirs will too.

Did the cure work?

2011-04-22T21:34:00.003-05:00

Here we are at the end of another Lucado study book. The Cure for The Common Life has been a little different; in that, we had a section to participate in the process. I don't think that I am through with the last section because some of it is still gnawing on me. Lucado has asked some questions that don't have single answers or answers that necessarily last. Life is a growing and fluid thing that just won't stand still. In his last section, Lucado talks about two people that found their "sweet spots" . One took almost a life time to find his sweet spot and one found hers in just a few years of college. Which one is right? Do we need time to season in order to know what is the right thing? Do we simply quit growing because we have finished our formal education? Did Saul have be at the right time in his life to hear Jesus? We are what we have experienced. Saul was not wrong in learning everything that he could about God's law and commandments. He did not get to his sweet spot until he was prepared for it. Stephen's death must have awakened something in him that put him on the right side of the question. We have a lot of second career pastors that have used what they learned in the secular world to make their witness stronger and valid. John Wesley was very passionate about what he understood to be his call from God for the early part of his life. Moving about in an England that was becoming industrialized, Wesley became aware that the people were being treated like the machinery that they were operating. After his heartwarming experience, he was still disciplined and methodical about his spiritual life. Now, he was on fire for God and believed that the discipline was needed to enable him to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Read some of his journal entries and marvel at the miles and sermons. His sweet spot came after some real frustrations and failures in ministry. All through this book, Lucado has pushed and prodded us to move out of our comfort zones to find our sweet spot. Even then, he is not satisfied to have us stay there. We are urged to go and do those things that we don't particularly like to do, but need to be done. I am going to keep this book handy; either, on the night stand or by the breakfast table, so that I can keep leafing through it over time. There are still nuggets yet to mined from his stories. There are questions that may have an answer that was not there the first time through. Kind of like The Bible, huh? Remember, sometimes the cure doesn't come until sometime after the medicine is all taken.

Are You Being Served?

2011-04-16T19:21:00.002-05:00

The old British Comedy series on BBC, Are You Being Served?, was about a department store in England. The employees greeted each new customer with the question, "Are You Being Served?" I think about the series from time to time because the store was named Grace Brothers. I doubt that the connection between serving and grace ever entered the minds of either the creators or the actors of the show. It was probably a stretch for me to connect the two, but there it is. In this next to the last lesson in The Cure for the Common Life, this thing of serving and God's Grace surfaces again. Lucado pushes us to look at the ways that servanthood draws us closer to God. It is interesting to see his realization that while he is pushing the student up the mountain, he is actually being served by God. He quotes Mark 10: 45. Suddenly, Lucado, is meddling by saying that we need to focus on what needs to be done. In these past chapters, he pushes us to remember that we were specially made to do certain things; things that God has equipped us to do. We are to pursue our passion and seek our strengths. Now, he tells us to, not only, do that which we love to do, but to do that which needs to be done. Jesus loved to be with people and to fellowship and eat with them. Yet , Lucado reminds us that Jesus always did what needed to be done. He did not surround himself with angels and prophets. He chose to recruit people. People that were afraid; people that worried about money and what will we feed these people. Instead of hanging out with angels and prophets, Jesus calmed the storms, fed the hungry, cured the sick, and let them interrupt his sermons, rest and meals. On page 132, what did you think of the rabbi's friend that simply shared the boy's world until the boy returned to normal? Jesus was stripped of his royalty to become human. He didn't say after a few days that it really wasn't for him and he would return to live with God because being human wasn't much fun. In Matt. 25:40, Jesus gives what is probably the essence of his call to and on us. Be big enough to reach down or out and pull some one along because that's what Jesus told us to do. You may even have to put your shoulder under their gluteus maximus and push to help them see the view from above the timberline of worldly troubles and confusion. The question we will always need to ask is, "Are you being served?" We may not work at Grace Brothers, but we serve the God of Grace.

Opening A Gift

2011-04-09T16:17:00.002-05:00

Do we try to play an accordion with a bow, or get oranges from a tomato plant? Do we try to shape a child into something other than what God intended? Lucado presses us to let the child unfold like a flower and see what the bloom looks like. Do we try to shape the child into our own image? Is he trying to tell us that we are not to try to shape the child and just let them run wild? We don't plant a garden and forget to water and weed the soil around the plants. We may not shape the tomato plant into a rose, but we probably ought to give the plant the support that it needs to be the best tomato plant possible. Lucado used Prov. 22:6, to make the point that our influence will help or hinder; depending upon, whether we stifle or accelerate the child's gifts. We can, as Lucado says, create a thirst in our children for following God's way. Looking to Jesus as a role model and not to the latest sports or music star. Instilling the values of Christian living and growing will stay with them all their lives. He is quick to point out that nothing we do will guarantee that the child will never leave the values and stray from the path of righteousness. As we have discussed in past weeks, several sources tell us that we are shaped and planned before we are born with a set of gifts. Remember to read the S.T.O.R.Y of the child. We see how they are bent long before they are grown. As we look to this issue, do we consider that we have other children than our own biological children to "read". Most of us in this class are "through" raising our children, but what of the children around us that are not being "trained up" by their biological family? Are there children of all ages around us in the community and Central that could benefit from mentoring? While we are not responsible for their upbringing, could they benefit from our tender care? Look around and see if there is one or more that could use a word of encouragement or a nudge to use their gifts for the benefit of others. I believe that you will be surprised at the S.T.O.R.Y 's you will enjoy reading.

from tiny acorns, mighty oaks grow

2011-03-31T21:32:00.004-05:00

This will come a little early, this week. We have a mission to accomplish in Austin, this week end. Dwyane, will give you relief from my wandering stories.

Lucado is challenging us in this chapter to realize that it isn't always the size of the gift or effort that matters. There are a lot of examples in scripture that point to that fact. On page 115, Lucado lists some of those seemingly small "things" that did, in fact change history. In 1Kings 17, a widow tells Elijah that she only has a little oil and a little meal between she and her son's starvation. Elijah assures her that God will provide. Her large faith does keep she, her son and Elijah fed through the famine. Lucado has told us before to look back and see where we have come from. Remember, this week, some seemingly insignificant event or gift that still resonates with you. How many school teachers receive remembrances from former students expressing gratitude for things remembered. Not enough, surely, but some. Remember a school teacher or SS teacher that gave you the impetus to begin. Has a neighbor or former neighbor reminded you of something that you did or gave that made a lasting impression? A friend remembers when you were present and simply were "there" in support? We are not very good judges of what is important and what is not, are we? Can you remember or describe a time when you were used by God to make a difference? Lucado continues to challenge us throughout the chapter to let God be the judge of what is "big" and what is little. In Zech. 4:10, "Do not despise these small beginnings, for the Lord rejoices to see the work begin." Is Lucado right, when he says God's answer would be, "Just do something and see what happens." We can't start any sooner than now.
Our prayers will be with you.

The hurrieder I go, the behinder I get.

2011-03-26T08:36:00.002-05:00

In his book Go Put Your Strengths To Work, Marcus Buckingham, dispels some myths about personal growth and personality. A myth that he challenges is "You will grow the most in your areas of greatest weakness." According to Buckingham, sixty-one percent of people believe this. As an example, early in our education system, if you are proficient in English and struggled with math, you were not given more English classes. Instead, you were placed in remedial math class. The author doesn't tell us not to seek improvement in areas of weakness. He tells us to focus on our strengths because we will grow most in the areas of our greatest strengths. Isn't that what Lucado is pointing us to in the chapter "Pause On Purpose"? Jesus went away to a "deserted place" to focus on His mission. If we can't get everything done that we feel driven to do, do we just try to go faster and longer? Jesus was in the midst of a people who were in need of comfort and healing. He had the power to comfort and heal. Isn't that what he should have been doing? Yet, He sent the crowds away. Weren't they still in need of comfort and healing? Their cries for help were drowning our the voice of God. Do you experience that in your daily walk? I saw a banner that read," THE URGENT ALWAYS OVERRIDES THE IMPORTANT!". Is that your experience? A flat tire, a leaky water heater, any "emergency" seems to block out whatever it was that we were headed to do. Some of us experience ADD as we move through life as we dart from crisis to crisis. When Jesus left and went on to preach at other places, what did he find? People hurting and crying for comfort and healing, right? In the passage from Mark 6:30-32, Jesus tells his disciples to take time to rest for a little while. They have been busy and were in need of some re-creation. Did He tell that their work was done and it was time to retire? Rather, Jesus told them to recharge their batteries because there would be more people to deal with soon. In Luke 4:38-44, we see that some would have detained Jesus and tried to make His primary task the healing of the physical body. Their agenda and our agenda would limit Jesus to what we want and when we want it. In order to stay focused on God's agenda, Jesus had to listen. The clamor of the crowds, caused His compassionate heart to respond to their needs. If Jesus felt the need to withdraw and pray(Luke 5:16), do we need it any less than He did? Lucado cites his own experience of being lost in the "busyness" of ministry. What did Max discover when he evaluated his life and ministry? Was he playing to his strengths or his weaknesses? Do you identify with his efforts to reclaim his passion? What would it take for you to reclaim your passion; or, if you have done that how or who caused it to happen? Reflect on Lucado's statement, "Jesus said no to good things; so, he could say yes to the right thing." Lay that over by Dr. Jung's statement, "Hurry is not of the Devil, it is the Devil." Now find your "deserted place" and rest.

Take this job and Love It?

2011-03-19T09:24:00.003-05:00

This chapter is a about contrasts in attitude. What makes the difference in pumped up and burned out? Lucado presents the problem of being fruitful or futile. Who is the real judge of our job performance? Do we look on the "job" as a sentence rather than an opportunity to be the best that we can be in service to God through that occupation. Why do so many linger until very late on Sunday night in going to bed? Does it delay the inevitable? Do we avoid the tasks that are not especially to our liking? Michelangelo was a sculptor. The pope wanted him to paint. When he accepted the role of painter, what and who was changed? Why did Michelangelo put such details in the corners of the chapel that no one would ever notice? Have you experienced similar situations in your life? I don't think any of us has ever influenced European art, but have you seen your life changed by accepting a "job" out of your comfort zone? When Jesus told Peter to go back to fishing, there wasn't much enthusiasm for the task, but Peter did it. The results were phenomenal. How did Peter see this event? Profitable or "Prophetable "? As we view our life's work, what part of it does not belong to God? What are your feelings about the man's ability to worship in the cesspool? Can you think of this kind of commitment being evident in scripture?
When we trivialize a job or occupation, are we, in fact, trivializing another person or persons? Pat and I watched an old movie the other night, "Iron Weed." This movie brought to the surface the human degradation of the "Great Depression" on an up close and personal level. Those brought low by the economic conditions were trivialized and in some cases. demonized. The economic realities of life make some decisions beyond our control, but if the man can worship in the cesspool, how can we not bring joy and God's love to our corner? Lucado challenges us to make an effort to change ourselves if we cannot change our jobs. He asks that we pray for understanding and help in being more effective and fulfilled in our work. Maybe if we look to the detail in the corners that only we and God see, the rest will follow. Think about it?

Class Party

2011-03-13T09:40:00.000-05:00

Saturday, March 26th @ 7:00 pm @ the Milsap's See Class Calendar.

Whose Reputation is it?

2011-03-12T07:36:00.002-06:00

Lucado looks at the difference faith makes in our reputations. His attitude was one of disdain and disbelief until, what? His reputation as a flirt, a beer drinker, and a partyer was all that was important to him. Anything else was just something for the losers and the lonely people. Was he able to keep that reputation and assume another one, as well, after his faith journey began? Why not? Lucado lifts Joseph up as one who had a lot to lose by becoming Mary's husband. His reputation was very important to him, and his standing in the community. He was looked up to by the leaders of the synagogue. Obviously, as the author says, Joseph didn't spend a lot of time talking about the situation. He is totally silent in the whole of the story. He listened. God's angel explained the situation and what was needed of him. So, that made it a simple thing to explain to the folks at the synagogue, right? Put yourself in his shoes and try to explain that his betrothed is pregnant(before they are married) and that some angel told you that the Holy Spirit was the father. Remember your reputation as a devout and committed person is on the line. Max goes on to say that God grants us the uncommon life in direct relation to the level of our surrender of the common life. (Matt. 16:25)

We are challenged to think what we would do if our job or "personal" reputation is on the line because of a situation that requires compromise. Has this happened to you? We are given several examples of folks in scripture that have not put themselves ahead of God in times of trial. Joseph, Paul, David, John, Luke and others emptied themselves in order to be filled with God's spirit. Think of others. Lucado's story of the book signing is a good example of being so full of himself that there was no room for God. Do we have to lose our reputation for God to be upper most in our lives? If so, does that mean that we are without integrity and have no principles? Joseph is described as a just man. He is the vehicle through which God delivers the Christ to a broken and hurting world. Is he any less just because of that? What qualities would we have and what reputation would we have if we emptied ourselves to be filled with God's love and grace? Do we have the courage to let our passion for God fill us and our reputation?

Is That my cousin over there?

2011-03-04T22:42:00.002-06:00

In the 9th chapter of Cure for the Common Life, Lucado focuses on the family of God known as the church. Do we view each church gathering as a family reunion? He makes a point of telling a story about siblings adopted by various families without their knowledge. After many years, they came to the startling discovery that they are all of the same family, but have been raised as strangers. In the 11th chapter of Romans, Paul explains to the non-Jewish Christians of that day that, in fact, they are all adopted. In spite of that fact, they are all kin. They are not biological children of Abraham, but they are God's children. The reference to "family" is extremely common in scripture. We have often heard that we can choose our friends, but cannot chose our family. God has chosen our family. Lucado points to the fact that we should also be friends. What did you think of his analogy of the Aspen tree? Do you see the similarity of intertwined roots of those in the church? If this be true, we should all be concerned with the feeding of the grove. What we do individually, affects the whole. Feeding and caring for each other becomes an act of healing and growth. Why does God picture the church as his family? What is devotion? Is it simply a verse of scripture, a meditation and a prayer. Is true devotion to God the up-building of God's family by caring, feeding and healing . How have you seen that happen in the church? How have you made that happen in the church? As you work through the questions and exercises on pages 187-190, let you mind expand to encompass all of the Church and feel the warmth and excitement of knowing how many members our family has.

Applause, earned and Applause, undeserved

2011-02-25T20:12:00.002-06:00

In a previous book, Max Lucado has written of the joy that God will have upon welcoming us to heaven. In The Applause Of Heaven, he equates the happiness of the father welcoming home the "prodigal" son with God welcoming us "home".. God is pictured celebrating our return with applause and joy. In The cure for the Common Life, Lucado presses us to celebrate God's presence with worship. In Chapter 8, we are told to "Applaud God, Loud and Often". He discusses our poor "I-sight". We too often hold ourselves in too high esteem and at times self loathing. Worship is the thing that gives stability to our lives. Coming into the presence of God to praise His name and applauding keeps us aware that we are not omnipotent or impotent; we are God's children. Can you describe what that looks like; feels like? Some cultures have assumed that worship requires some physical activity. Raising the hands, bowing down, rocking to and fro or jumping and shouting. What is the proper posture for worship? Does it matter? Lucado says that the humble are lifted up by worship and the cocky are humbled by it. Is that double talk; or does it say that worship affects us all differently? Sometimes do we applaud God with our intense silence and at other times with our exuberance and dancing as David did?

As we read Romans 12:1, what are the wherefores that precede the "Therefore" ? Why does Jesus tell the woman at the well that someday they will be able to worship God anywhere and not just on some specific mountain? Hasn't that always been so? Is where we worship important or does location matter? If our body is to be a living sacrifice, how and when is it to be offered to God in worship? No one can answer these questions for us any more than we can answer them for others.

As we discover our "knack sack" of talents, can we make these a part of our daily worship? A conscious and intentional effort will be required to worship God through these passions and ministries. Have you made the effort to learn enough about your S.T.O.R.Y to make worship a part of everyday? When you have made that discovery, give God a round of applause, He deserves it.

The Sweetest Spot in the Universe

2011-02-19T08:36:00.002-06:00

We have been told by Max Lucado that we must learn to take risks for God. We begin by learning who we are and how we are equipped to be that person. Our sweet spot is the place that we long to be in life. That is for both our happiness and others around us. As we seek that sweetest of sweet spots, we discover that God is in our sweet spot ahead of us. Just when we feel all alone, there is God beckoning us on. Lucado reminds us of all the ways God tried to get humankind's attention over the centuries. God knew that it was not good for man to be alone.(Gen. 2:18) Loneliness can become a companion in itself. Review all the ways that God made effort to get our attention. Angels. Prophets, Miracles, Apostles, and Messages didn't seem to have much lasting effect. As we examine our own lives, it becomes evident that the most effective way of receiving and giving help is when we are with each other in the task. That is what Lucado tells us is the cure for the common life-- God with us. When we begin to feel and act insignificant, it's best to remember that we are never alone or insignificant. How do we know? God told us. Jesus died for us; that makes us significant. (John 3:16)Alone? "I'll be with you even to the ends of the age."(Matt. 28:20) God stands with us against the loneliness, weariness and exhaustion of life.God is not a spectator, but an active participant and companion. Can we accept it and live it?

Wednesday Night Fellowship Meal

2011-02-15T08:23:00.000-06:00

We have agreed to do the fellowship meal on March 9, 2011. Please join in to help while Barbara is in Mexico. Email Mr. Pat or me with any questions.

Thanks,

Upcoming Events

2011-02-15T08:19:00.000-06:00

Early Sunday School @ 9:30 am due to 1 Worship service @ 10:30 am 03/13/2011 to 04/17/2011 See Calandar

MAKE A BIG DEAL OF GOD, EVERYDAY

2011-02-12T09:55:00.002-06:00

As we continue to seek and develop our Sweet Spot (the point where God's Glory, our everyday life and our strengths join), it is becoming evident that each of us is a unique being. We have the gifts and strengths that God has placed in our hands for ministry. We have begun to unpack our bag, learning what God has equipped us with for life's journey. Lucado has asked that we look backward into our lives to learn what joys, passions, and strengths have become evident in the 20/20 view of the rearview mirror. From that retrospective view, he helps us to see what God has equipped us to do and how it has worked out, so far. Maybe at this point we can see what our place in life looks like. The destination is determined by one tool--the supplies that we found in our bag. Lucado continues to remind us that God has never called us to be anyone other than ourselves. He uses the anagram S.T.O.R.Y. to help us in our self inventory. STRENGTHS-our knack sack; YOUR TOPIC-what do you enjoy working with?( Your passion/s); Optimum conditions-what triggers your passion/motivates you; RELATIONSHIPS-do you work best in a team, group or solo?(Lucado says that we must learn this or be frustrated in seeking to energize self or others); YES!-When you look up from your task and say, "YES!! this is what I'm talkin' about!" Lucado quotes Bubba(and you can't go wrong here, can you?) "If if am me, how can I mess me up?" I think is is said more poetically elsewhere as, "Unto thine self be true." We move in the second section of the book Cure For The Common Life to developing our sweet spot and Making a big deal out of God everyday of our lives. Are you up for the risk?

New Book New Lessons

2011-01-03T14:13:00.001-06:00

We are starting a new book this Sunday 01/09/2011. We will start with an overview and move into the lessons the next week. I will be posting the chapters and what Sundays they will be on the calendar. Here is a press release for the book that you might find interesting. Press Release

It's Brunch Time !!!

2010-08-29T18:28:00.003-05:00

We finished Max Lucado's Facing your Giants this morning. You know what that means. Brunch time. Luckily a couple people thought this week was brunch week and brought some goodies. But that only means we are continuing it next week. Bring something bruchable or come help us eat what was brought because it is always to much anyway.

We will receive our new books next Sunday. Max Lucado's 3:16 The Numbers of Hope

Click the calendar page above to see where we will be on each Sunday.

Schedule (Click to Open)

See Ya Sunday

Amazing Grace

2010-08-26T22:31:00.000-05:00

The BP Oil Spill: A Christian Call for Lament and Reconciliation

2010-06-30T19:00:00.000-05:00

The BP Oil Spill: A Christian Call for Lament and Reconciliation

Mercy Cheiza's Letter

2010-06-13T22:18:00.001-05:00

Choir - Dearest friends & family,

Thanks so much for the uplifting card. This experience has made me realize how blessed I am to have such wonderful, supportive friends, family & relatives. It is at times like this when family & friends "stick" together. You have been there for me & my family & I love you all and thank you for that. You know this experience made Winston & I examine ourselves. Yes, we were always church goers since we were children; yes, we participated in church activities - we even sing in the choir. But little did we realize that we did not have our priorities straight - we've always been too busy. Of course the justification has always been we have to make a living, especially after having been immigrants who came to the United States with just a few luggage & bags and had to start from scratch. Of course, I asked that question - "Why Lord, after all that we have been through - working two & three jobs at a time trying to have & raise children while going to school - all those years of suffering & now when we feel we did it all - this circumstance creeps up on us? Why Lord, why?" Then, all of a sudden, I have this (light bulb) flash - Did we really do it all? What was God's role in all this? And definitely, somewhere along the way, we forgot to focus on the important things in life and we forgot to stop & genuinely thank the Lord for affording us with the wonderful opportunities. The day I realized I could not go to work any more, as I sat there - it was like a load had been taken off my shoulders - I was so surprised because instead of worrying about not having an income I felt so relieved - that is when I realized I had been working too hard - when I remarked to Winston about how relaxed & peaceful I felt - I was so surprised to hear Winston's reply. I had never known him to be that deep in his religious concephalization ? (conception?) - he said "It's like the Lord is telling us that you were abusing his temple." It took me several seconds to get it - and then he added "Your body is God's temple." We joked about how "deep" he is getting in this "Bible stuff." Truly we both have already benefited from this "difficult circumstance." I can tell the change in Winston's attitude - the tone and messages he sends - he actually quotes Bible verses & I have also started doing so - which is "a first" for both of us. You see, we already can feel the power of God's strength, because we both are at peace and feel closer to God. The other day when I started feeling lonely & missing home - I got a card from Winston that expressed that,

"Just wanted you to know

Each time I pray for you I'm

reminded that God who created you

Can put your world together again.

That is why I'm asking Him to

bring you strength and reassurance

as you lean on Him & Rest in His love."

Winston added the Bible verse Hebrews 13:5: "I will never leave you nor forsake you." What a wonderful reassurance, I thought. It made my day.

The second week after I arrived I enrolled in a Bible study class and am now in my third week - again, "a first for me as an adult." I mean, participating in an actual Bible study class for a long period of time. We're using Jennifer Rothschild's (sp?)"Walking By Faith. - Lessons learned in the Dark." Man! If you have not already gone through these lessons, maybe - talk to Carl or Linda to incorporate this study - somewhere in the schedule. She (Jennifer) is dynamic - this is a woman who was blinded at the age of 15 and she uses her blindness experience to "See through Grateful Eyes." She talks about "walking by faith and not by sight." She also talks about how when she discovered she was going to be completely blind one day she found herself playing by ear the melody of "It is Well with my Soul." Jennifer added, "It is well with my soul. Even when it is not well with my circumstance." I love that!

Growing up till adulthood I have always heard the saying "Everything happens for a reason." Of course, we all assume "For a good reason." I took this saying at face value - as if just being faced and going through a difficult time would result in something good or beneficial. Just yesterday another light bulb went on. I was reading Jennifer Rothschild's lesson and came across the idea that being faced with difficult circumstances alone is not enough, but what is important is what one decides to do with that circumstance - You can sit and dwell in self pity or you can use the experience to benefit yourself. A "thorn" in these lessons is described as anything in life that one does not have control over. As you can see, with this definition, every person has a "thorn." Jennifer describes the thorn as "a difficult gift" and goes on to describe how we choose responses to our "difficult gifts." James 1:2: "Consider it joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds." If we think of a trial as joy, our response will be to rejoice. Mmm - Learning to rejoice when our world heats up and life stings - Now, that's tough - but then again if we learn to receive gratefully - we will understand that "what at first looks like a complication can actually be an extraordinary Blessing in Disguise." I know this is as long letter/testimony, but as I was counting my blessings and feeling so peaceful, I thought, I really need to share this joy and peace with my Family In Christ.

I'm adjusting as well as can be expected away from home. Thanks for your prayers and concerns. The Power of Prayer is amazing. I know for sure that that is what is sustaining me through this difficult circumstance, and in closing I have to (truly?) say "It Is Well With My Soul" even when it is not well with my circumstance.

God bless you & your families.

Sincerely Yours,

Mercy

To Avenge or not to Avenge?

2010-05-18T21:26:00.003-05:00

Samuel 24:1-15 was the basis for this week's episode of our hero. David is still on the lam and can't seem to get anything to go his way. Lucado wants us to look at the way we respond to danger. Do we move into some self-destructive mode that involves indulging in a spending spree, running to recreational pursuits or even medication or alcohol. We discussed the possibility that we need to become vigilantes to avenge the wrongs that are done to us, but learned through David's action that God's grace is constant and is available to everyone. Even Saul is worthy of God's grace and he's insane. David is now in tune with God and can once again hear His voice. There is real value in being willing to wait and proceed on God's time line. Sometimes we get so anxious to get on to the next chapter that we forget that God has an agenda that is broader in scope than ours. The problem that evolves is that our justice(rather than mercy and grace) probably will be either too harsh or not strong enough. We watched as David had opportunity to kill Saul twice and ascend to the throne, but each time, he listened to God and spared Saul's life. David is even remorseful for having cut off a piece of Saul's royal robe. Some felt that David hadn't really intended to kill Saul in these two instances and others weren't sure that David didn't plan to kill Saul as he approached him in the cave and slipped into his tent but God stayed his hand. What do yo think? As Christians, we have the vantage point of having heard Jesus's calls for forgiveness; so, it is common for us to believe in the grace of God offered in forgiveness. David didn't even have the Ten Commandments to go by. Fortunately, the voice of God is always in David's ear (at this point) to make him see the way forward. David comes to the realization that God's timing is everything and doesn't try to make God's will conform to his personal plans. Lucado asks --Don't we wish that we could get that right?

In Tuesday's Waco Tribune, Michael Attas writes of the validation of forgiveness as scientific basis for healing. Thousands of years ago, God led David to offer grace to Saul;so, that David's soul could be healed. Now, it is validated by the Harvard Medical School and others. Many years after David lived, Paul wrote, "Where is the wise? where is the scribe: Where is the disputer of this world? Hat no god mad foolish the wisdom of the world?"1Cor. 1:20 Think About it.

Dry Seasons

2010-05-10T20:59:00.002-05:00

We spent time with the fifth chapter of Lucado's, Facing Your Giants. The story in 1 Samuel 21: 10-22:5 shows us that David continued a downward spiral that began in the previous chapter and didn't get any better before it got much worse. David has fled Saul's wrath. He has lied to the priests at Nob(multiple times). He traveled to Gath in a effort to see if they would view him as a friend since they hated Saul, too. It didn't work. We saw him fake epilepsy(another lie) to keep from being killed. Here is the noble warrior that was glorified in song, drooling and thrashing about on the ground in an effort at survival. Since he is definitely not welcome in the court of Saul; has lost his position in the army; has no wife or priest to trust, and his one true friend , Jonathan, is afraid to have contact with him, David seeks a place that no one else wants to be. He hides in a cave in the Dead Sea area. We discussed our actions when we find ourselves in a dry season. Like David, sometimes, we panic and begin to build a wall of deceit that we can't see over or around. We can only continue to compound the problem by building a level of distrust between us and all around us. David came to the point that about people joined him in the wasteland of his misery. His family and about 400 debtors and discontented people joined him. Lucado makes the point that this bruised and battered crew made up David's kingdom. Our hero continues in misery until the prophet Gad calls him to go back to Judah where David vows to stay until God has in store for him. In our discussion time, we saw a pattern in David that we repeat in our own lives. We lose our focus and seek to do what we, in our panic or confusion, feel is the only way out of the situation. Dwyane and others spelled out what it has taken them to be called back from the land of dry bones. We are called by a quiet unassuming prophet or some event that reminds us that God really is in charge. When we stand alone, it is not because God has deserted us, but because we stood alone and not along side God. Lucado asks us if our actions are to hold a pity party and feel sorry for ourselves. Maybe we try to enlist an army with our anxiety evangelism that will join us in our misery. In certain situations, we just try to ignore the problem and hope it goes away. We are called to expect a positive outcome that follows our actions. Maybe we need to remember that, like Dwyane, sometimes we can't even remember what drove to go down to the cave. It may be that we have made an important event out of an insignificant hangnail or squabble. David was not in an insignificant dry season. We may find ourselves in a situation of our own making or one that we have no control over. When John Wesley had a heavier load than usual, he arose even earlier than usual to spend more time in prayer to get God's guidance. Would our GIANT become a much smaller giant if we always made them stand next to God to establish their relative size? I believe we all usually go to the cave, but we must not remain there. God's voice is just easier to hear in the silence. Lucado closes the chapter with this statement,"Are you in the wilderness? Crawl in to God the way a fugitive would a cave. Find refuge in God's presence. Find comfort in his people. Cast your hat in a congregation of folks who are one gift of grace removed from tragedy, addiction, and disaster. Seek community in the church of Adullam."

We celebrate the joy that came to Central with the recognition of the Mother's role in all our lives, regardless of who filled that role.

From Portland

2010-04-29T12:16:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the late posting. I seem to have gotten a little busy this week and haven’t been able to post when I have access to the net.

It seems like along time ago, but we did discuss David and Saul, Sunday. Lucado uses the term “Raging Sauls” to describe this type of giant in our lives. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes—and genders. We meet them in a lot of settings. As the story unfolds, David finally comes to realize that Saul really, really doesn’t like him. His first clue seems to be that Saul tried to kill him six times. Yet, David remains loyal and tries to do whatever Saul commands. He is loyal to a fault. Without Jonathan’s constant support and warnings, David would have been lost. Lucado wants us to remember those that have served as a Jonathan in our lives. If we only focus on the “Raging Sauls”, we will lose sight of what God is trying to do in our lives. While we know that God is not going to “nuke” the ogres in our lives, we will be given the stgrength to over come the obstacles. Saul is angry because he has lost favor with God and we will need to remember that that develops into a paranoia that makes Saul blind with fear and rage. If we can remember that God through Jesus can carry us through any situation, we will realize that we may not be the ogres’s problem. Like Saul, they may be their own worst enemy. Remember that we were going to watch this week to see which role we were playing. We know that sometimes, we are Saul, sometimes, David, and sometimes, Jonathan. Check the mirror.

It is beautiful here in Portland, It is wet in Portland. I believe that they could stick a broomstick in the ground, and by next week it would be blooming. Our work has gone well and we should finish with our tasks at hand tomorrow. I can then return to the land of the wind. (It blew 20miles and hour here Wednesday and made the news.)

David has desperate days coming in Chapter 4. We will talk about how our hero handles some faith issues on Sunday.

David 1--Brothers-0

2010-04-18T16:50:00.001-05:00

Chapter Two is about phones that don't ring, invitations that don't come, and leaders that don't lead(among other things). 1Samuel 16:1-13 is full of God's direction of Samuel's visit to the House of Jesse and the selection of a new king for Israel. Why a new king? Saul isn't dead or even sick(at least not physically). Samuel is to use the subterfuge that he is only in Bethlehem to offer a sacrifice to God(witness the heifer he has brought along). Since Samuel is a major prophet, it is necessary that he have an excuse for being in the middle of nowhere. Samuel interviews seven of Jesse's sons and would have chosen the eldest, but God said, "Not that one." So it continued for all seven interviews. "Don't you have another son? " Jesses admits that he does have another son, but he is "watching the sheep." Obviously not the best choice for a new king, right? Wrong. David is called in smelling of sheep and other outdoorsy things. David does not appear to be as tall or good looking or educated as some of the other seven, but he is tanned and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Lucado reminds us that God knows David's heart and is not looking for Adonis. David is anointed and Samuel went on to other matters. I pressed Dwyane into service to get us started. He was a little hesitant, at first, but by the time I returned to class he had the group going on the characteristics that we felt God had looked for in David. Lucado pushes us to see the giant of EXCLUSION. Jesses's other sons were fine men, but did not seek God's favor and God's heart as David did. David was the runt; thus, did not have the stature in the family because of size and birth order. We will get to know David in the chapters ahead, but today we looked at his attributes in light of our lives. He was human--so he messed up. He lost focus--so he messed up. He became self centered--so he messed up. In all those times that he exhibited humanness, he came back to God with a contrite heart. Already we are admiring David for his "all in" type of approach to life and to God's calling. He loved and trusted God, but he also knew that he had to do his part in preparing for the battle to come.(Next week) The caution that comes to us is that we need to be careful in our day-to=day lives as we practice exclusion based on surface or selfish issues. Dwyane left us with the question in Lucado's study guide. In what areas of life do you most need to develop godly character for example our "thought life". Read Mark 2:1-8 for the significance of "thought life".

We missed the Millsaps , Bonnie Rinard and Jane Williams.

Facing Giants and living with the outcome

2010-04-13T09:02:00.002-05:00

Folks,

Read Michael Attas' article in today's Trib(4/11/10). Michael is a cardiologist who has responded to the call to ordained ministry. His perspective of facing giants and not necessarily winning all the battles in life and in medicine is helpful to me. "We will find tragedies that sweep us away and leave us adrift emotionally. But when we need them most, moments of grace break unexpectedly".

Giants Among Us

2010-04-11T22:13:00.003-05:00

Today we launched on a search to identify and neutralize the "giants" in our lives. Dwyane continued the tradition of handling the launch of a new study. There were a number of giants identified--Fear, unknown, known, diabetes, unemployment, money, control, loss of control, loss of independence, and a number of others. The question was lifted as to whether we look more to God or to our giants. In the scripture for today, 1 Samuel 17:1-11, Goliath is described in great detail with the fear that he struck in the hearts of the Israelites. He offered them a deal. If they would send a man to face him and that man was able to kill Goliath, the Philistines would become the slaves of Israel. Remember that Goliath was a descendant of the giants that the spies had reported to Moses when they first were to enter the promised land. They had grown accustomed to being afraid of these people after so many years and dealing with several generations of them. As the story continues in the book, we will see that David was a man after God's heart, but was far from perfect and didn't always slay the giant. Remember, the book is entitled, Facing Your Giants; not, slaying your giants. Personal stories were shared about facing down giants. The conclusion was that we do not always get God to remove the giant from our lives, but become stronger as we face the giant and work through the problem with God's help. Dwyane pointed out that the outcome is not whether we conquer, but that God is with us in the struggle and it is God's will that counts and not our desired outcome. Our mortality teaches us to recognize our immortality. John Fry lightened the mood by relating a story that a man did not ask when he would die but where he would die. That way he could avoid the place all together. We left with the thought that God is still in charge.

Next week David comes forward with qualities that enabled him to become king, 1Samuel 16:1-13.

We were blessed by two new folks as Cristina Cleveland and Sandy Weaver joining us today.

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T16:32:00.002-05:00

There was a great service at Central, today. It was enhanced by the Covenant Class Greeters. Thanks to all that baked muffins, staffed the hospitality booth, decorated the booth and mingled to make all feel a warm Central Welcome. The confirmands were welcomed into full membership of the church and one child was baptized. In spite of the drizzle and distraction of March Madness that carried over into April there were over 450 in worship. Many first time visitors and some returning wanderers. There was some confusion caused by the shift to 10:30 for this Sunday only; but we welcomed the 11am arrivals and brought in extra chairs to give them a place to sit. Brenda had enough children to start a small school at Children's Time and church. If you missed it, I hope you were experienced a great celebration of Easter as we did at Central.

Don't forget to check the calendar that Dwyane has set up for us. Click on "agenda" in the upper left to get a picture of what is coming and which lesson we are dealing with next. Join the discussion on cumcwaco.com at the "WASSUP?" button. You can join through Facebook in the pages button.

Next week, we start to Face our Giants. Dwyane has posted a picture and outline of the book. He gets to continue the tradition of starting the book. If you can't join us, check in here for an up date.

2010-04-02T21:26:00.001-05:00

It's time to face our Giants.

Click here for Lessons

Books are here!

2010-03-30T21:19:00.003-05:00

Hey Guys,

The books came last night(Monday). Great timing? Pat(she) will have them at church Wednesday at the Family Dinner and afterward. They look good, but there are 19 Chapters. You know what that means--a long time until we eat! Maybe we better plan a snack in the middle or Ron Ewing won't be able to make it. Start reading 1 Samuel in preparation. It appears that we will have a steady diet of giants for some time to come; so, get ready to add the tenderizer. Don't forget to check the calendar for the start of the study.

Check out the link on cumcwaco.org--WASSUP? and follow it up by following the link to the Facebook page WASSUP? and the discussion section. Dwyane has been busy. Maybe you have a story that you would like to share.

Giants

2010-03-28T18:14:00.002-05:00

The books have not arrived, but we spent time today looking at the concept of giants and where they exist. Numbers 13:31 tells the story of the spies sent out by Moses to access the possibilities of the Israelites possessing the promised land. Of the spies sent out, only Joshua and Caleb came back with a positive report. In spite of the abundance of the land, the majority were in opposition to crossing over and accepting the promises of God. They viewed the land as filled with very large and bad people. "We were as grasshoppers". We decided that as Lucado pointed out in a recent chapter, they left God out of the equation. Indeed, they could not possess the land. It would take the support and strength of God of make it happen. There was a lively discussion about the "giants" that lurk "out there". Fear of the unknown is as real today as it was when we imagined all sorts of monsters under our beds as children or when we were about to leave our comfort zone at any stage or age of our lives. The major giants that the church battles are apathy and inertia. We simply can't get off of dead center(you can define that term.). We will begin the new study on the week following Easter, April 11. WE WILL GET THE BOOKS TO YOU AS SOON AS THEY ARRIVE.

By common consent, we will meet in the Narthex at the usual time to become greeters and guides for the 10:30 Service. There will be a large number of guests(if history repeats itself) that will need help in feeling welcomed and cared for. Bring an extra measure of Christ's Love and a large smile as you come.

APRIL 1 MAUNDY THURSDAY SERVICE 7:00PM

APRIL 2 GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE 7:00PM

APRIL 4 EASTER SUNDAY SERVICE(one only) 10:30AM

Facing Your Giants

2010-03-21T15:19:00.000-05:00

We discussed this Sunday that we are going to be studying Facing Your Giants by Max Lucado. Here is the publisher's review as well as a readers review..

From the Publisher

Everyone has a "Goliath"-a problem so overwhelming it is seemingly gigantesque in its magnitude. Facing Your Giants Study Guide has the answers that believers need in order to face the giants in life. Whether your overwhelming problem is grief that you just can't deal with, divorce that has ravaged your family, or an addiction that has a vice-like clamp on your will-power, Facing Your Giants Study Guidewill teach you to look past your problem towards the solution. Based on the life of David, this study guide is guaranteed to provide inspiration to succeed against even the most threatening difficulty.

Great for small group/couple study!

Reader Rating See Detailed Ratings

Posted February 13, 2010, 7:26 AM EST: My wife and I went through this study guide and book and loved it. It is very basic but also good for life application style study. The lessons are inspiring and encouraging, and are sure to relate to your life no matter what you are going through.

Fear and Anxiety

2010-02-27T13:38:00.000-06:00

I follow a blog called the Wesley Blog. Shane Raynor is a writer and publisher based in Austin, Texas. He is a certified lay speaker in the United Methodist Church and has done ministry work with teenagers for the past six years in multicultural Southeast Austin. Shane was the author of the popular Wesley Blog, one of the first weblogs devoted to news and theology in the United Methodist Church.

Please follow the link to read what he has to say about turning over our anxiety to God.

Wesley Blog

Concerns

2010-01-15T20:52:00.002-06:00

Folks,

I e-mailed Debbie Ewing about her mother's situation and received this message.

Thanks for the concern......she will be having surgery Wednesday the 20th. The the surgery is to remove the part of the stomach with the ulcer. This means major surgery and a longer stay in the hospital (rehab), the good news is that it can be done here in Waco not Plano. Please keep us in your prayers this is a very stressful time for all as we prepare for the upcoming surgery.

So, remember Debbie and her family in prayer, especially lift them Wednesday. I will try to get an update after that.

A second concern is for Lindsey Weaver who will be leaving for Haiti in a few days in connection with her work with Hope For The Hungry. Linda Freeto relayed the news by e-mail, but she seem to be having some trouble with her computer. I have pasted her e-mail in the blog. We can deal with the need on Sunday. I will try to have a figure that she needs for the water plant.

Lindsey Weaver Heads for Haiti

I just found out that Lindsey Weaver (Jeff and Janice Weaver’s daughter) is working for Hope For The Hunger which works with 2 orphanages and 1 school in Haiti. Lindsey has been called to leave for Haiti in the next few days. At this time they do not know for sure about how much damage has occurred at the orphanages, but 90% of the students at the school were killed.

Lindsey’s team will be working on helping the orphans and students get food and shelter. She has asked if the church could help with a water purification system. We will be taking a “Special Love Offering” this Sunday that will go directly to help rebuild the water system. If you are able to help, please make a check out to Central UMC and on the memo line put (Haiti Water System).

We all know how important this request is. Also please keep Lindsey and her team in your prayers. I hope to be able to stay up with Lindsey once she arrives in Haiti so I can continue to inform you all of what she is doing.

God’s blessings to you all!

Linda

Fearless

2010-01-09T09:22:00.003-06:00

I see that several churches are using Lucado's book Fearless in a six week series. Should the Covenant Class offer to sponsor that sort of thing at Central. It would require calendaring, advertising, selecting an audience and time. This is a good book and is speaking to our world, today. Think about it.

God Does Provide All That We Need

2010-01-04T10:16:00.002-06:00

As we discussed Max Lucado's book, yesterday, the conclusion is that we are all God's Children and provided for we have needs. Today, the following article came on one of my e-zines. It is a little long, but worth reading and letting it guide our thinking where we(individually and Central) fit in that picture of Acts4.

Connecting People to the Church Community

The Disciple's Journey: A Travel Free Learning Article from The Columbia Partnership

By Ken Kessler at KKessler@TheColumbiaPartnership.org

Download Connecting People to the Church Community

He was only eleven years old, but the day left a strong impression on his life. His mom and dad warned him before he and his brothers left for school that the house would be different when they got home, but he really had no idea.

When he got off the bus from school, he hurried home like always. His younger brother opened the door, and the shock occurred. There was not a piece of furniture in the house except one old rocking chair. The eleven year old ran to his room, and everything was gone there also – his bed, his radio, his books, and everything he cherished. He could hear one of his other brothers crying in another room. Mom tried to console all of the boys and reminded them that God would provide. But she was even affected. Her prized, old piano had been taken also.

Then, the boy found out the whole story. The local sheriff had come and taken everything from the house. His father’s business had gone bankrupt, and the furniture and other things from the house were collateral for the bank’s loan. The sheriff had to take it all and auction it off for the bank to get what they needed to pay off the loan.

The family gathered around the house that night and slept on the floor. They had a prayer together that night, thanking God for taking care of them. Somehow they knew God would provide.

And He did! By the next night, the family had a full house of furniture again. The local church where they were members had collected as many items as they could and provided for the family. The church was not large – only about 75 people came every Sunday. But they loved and cared for this family, and collected items to make sure the five young boys and mother and father had what they needed.

The whole story made quite an impression on this young boy. He watched a church body function at its best. They followed the example of the New Testament church in Acts 4 and loved this family into the church community.

This young boy was me! I will never forget it, and I will always be reminded that God provides through the example of this imperfect, small congregation in Pine Prairie, Louisiana. I long for the day when we as church bodies respond to the new people in our church like this one did for my family.

This church in Pine Prairie, Louisiana made sure that our family was connected to the community of faith. They saw our needs and responded. While I pick out this encounter because of how it affected me, I watched them nurture me and my family as disciples of Christ through various ministry connections. When we left the Pine Prairie church, we knew that part of our life was left with them.

So how does your church make connections with your new disciples and new members? What do you do to make sure new people are loved and blended into the care network of your congregation?

In many of churches, we are excited when people join. We might even encourage them to participate in a new member class so they can get to know the church. Unfortunately, though not many churches are connecting people to the care network of the congregation. People come and sit in our services, but we do little to know about the emotional, physical, and spiritual needs of our people. I have heard several church members in consultations and coaching encounters tell me that caring actions are the responsibility of the pastor and the staff. The expectation is that all of the caring needs of the congregation can be met through the people we pay.

This type of thinking is foreign to a New Testament understanding of the care network of the congregation. Ephesians 4:11-16 reminds us that all of us as followers of Christ should be doing the work of the ministry to build up the body of Christ.

So I ask again, “What is your church doing to connect people into the care network of the congregation?”

Some of the practices that I see that churches are using to connect people to the caring network include some of the following:

· Cultivate small groups to make sure that every member has a connection to care and love in the congregation. New groups are started regularly to make sure that new people have a place to connect.

· Enlist a care group for every eight to 12 members. Depending on the tradition, the care group leader is either a church leader like a deacon or a special commissioned leader who is gifted and prepared to provide pastoral care.

· Develop a lay ministry caring network like Stephen’s Ministry that provides a lay counseling network for members as they are facing tough challenges.

· For churches that have multiple services, develop at least six to eight large group meetings outside of worship where people can connect with each other.

· Use Bible study classes (Sunday morning or other times) to organize care groups to make sure that every member is touched through regular contacts and visits.

· Create text message groups for people to stay in touch with people.

· Develop an encourager program which designates a person to stay in touch with every new member for two years to make sure they are connecting to the care network of the congregation.

· Create mission families that allow eight to ten families to have regular contact with each other through gatherings throughout the year.

· Develop affinity groups for people to choose connections with people who have similar interests as they do. For example, one church has a group of men who are hunters who have regular connection and contact with each other. Eight times a year, they gather for coffee and fellowship. They use the empty chair concept to remember to invite someone new to join them for the next meeting. Annually, they hold a large big game dinner for the community that allows them to invite guests and share their stories of how God is changing their lives. They hold each other accountable.

So what are you doing? I would love to hear the creative ways your church is connecting people to the community of faith in your location. There is not a right or wrong way, just a Jesus way. He loved connecting people to the community of faith – people like Matthew, Zachaeus, the Samaritan woman, and you and me!

Important Things to Know

Ken Kessler is a Ministry Partner with The Columbia Partnership. He is also on staff with the Virginia Baptist Mission Board. The Columbia Partnership is a non-profit Christian ministry organization focused on transforming the capacity of the North American Church to pursue and sustain Christ-centered ministry. Travel Free Learning is a leadership development emphasis. For more information about products and services check out the web site at www.TheColumbiaPartnership.org, send an e-mail toClient.Care@TheColumbiaPartnership.org, or call 803.622.0923.

DID YOU FORGET TO WORRY?

2009-12-26T19:00:00.002-06:00

When we last met, the subject was how to worry creatively. As we approached Christmas Day, what were your biggest worries? If you forgot to make a list, then, do it now. Now, see how many of them came to pass and how many of them never materialized? Did it help to worry about them? The real concerns, we dealt with, didn't we? The other anxieties, we just let them take our energy and attention from the real activities of Christmas. The Christmas tree didn't fall over, there was enough paper and tape to wrap the gifts, every one had more than enough to eat(at least at our house), none of the gift cards found their way into the recycling or trash, all the things that are worrisome are just that worrisome. When the festivities were over, the newspaper and television news still reported that trouble still exists and Jesus' love hasn't conquered all the hate in the world. These are the real concerns that Jesus told us to work on. How about a worry list of things that we CAN affect. There are still concerns in our church family and community that should worry us, and worry us enough to make efforts to deal with the ones that we have some control over. My Granddad used to say that we couldn't get started any younger than we are now. We won't have class, tomorrow, but the worship service will challenge us to begin the New Year, now. Reread John 6:1-13 and check our inventory.

WHat It was, was a PARTY!

2009-12-20T21:27:00.002-06:00

Gary and Marilyn Patterson were super hosts for the Christmas Party! There was a good time had by all! There was a TAKS test on Christmas music(some religious and some not so religious). We learned about Santa's reindeer and where he was born. Alma and Bonnie were the brainiacs of the evening with an almost perfect score. This entitles them to a prize and a plaque on the feed store wall in Leroy. About 18 people consumed food for 25 or 30. We hold those not able to attend responsible for our gluttony. (We have to blame someone.) We heard a reading of "Twas the Night Before Christmas" with an emphasis on "the". Ask someone. The Patterson's live just outside of the city of Leroy; so, traffic wasn't a real problem. I believe that the law only came by once to check on us. We believe that this sort of thing could and should become habit forming. Watch this space and listen for the next episode of the continuing saga.

We are progressing well in the Lucado book Fearless. Today's chapter was nothing to worry about. In fact, Lucado cautioned us about the act of worrying. We decided that he is right and that we should give up worrying, but that worried us. Apparently, this is a major activity of the human race. Jesus doesn't condemn legitimate concern and we believe that this drives us to action. Worry, on the other hand, causes us to become immobilized and hopeless. The source of the problem seems to be the one faced by the Disciples as they sought to feed the crowd of 5,000. They forgot to inventory all their resources. Five loaves and two fish were only a minor part of their inventory. They only counted to 7. Their first source should have been Jesus. In every situation, we should not exclude God, but go there first and seek that source of strength and comfort. Remember the word "PEACEFUL"(Pray, Easy now, Act on it, Compile a worry list,Evaluate, Focus on today, Unleash a worry army, Let God be enough) pgs 49-51. This can be a real time of stress and worry. Let's take Jesus's advice from Matt. 6:25.

Remember t0 keep Debby Ewing and her family in prayer as they approach her mother's surgery-- Dwyane's mother as she works her way through the rehab as a result of her auto wreck--Jane William's and son Charlie as they approach the mediation of the divorce process--and Barbara Schultz as we surround her with our love and call God's love and support for her.

Don't forget that we not be meeting next week as a class, but at worship. One service at 10:45. Christmas Eve 3, 6, and 11pm services. Hope to see you at one of those.

Shaking it off and stepping up. . .

2009-12-13T18:50:00.004-06:00

from Larry James' Urban Daily by Larry James

Received this from a friend of mine out of another life! Enjoy!

One day a farmer's donkey fell down into a well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do.

Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the well needed to be covered up anyway; it just wasn't worth it to retrieve the donkey.

He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. They all grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. At first, the donkey realized what was happening and cried horribly. Then, to everyone's amazement he quieted down.

A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally looked down the well. He was astonished at what he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing. He would shake it off and take a step up.

As the farmer's neighbors continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up.

Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and happily trotted off!

*****
Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a steppingstone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step up.

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

Free your heart from hatred - Forgive.

Free your mind from worries - Most never happen.

Live simply and appreciate what you have.

Give more.

Expect less.
Posted on www.UrbanDaily.org

2009-12-05T19:38:00.001-06:00

^29-31"What's the price of a pet canary? Some loose change, right? And God cares what happens to it even more than you do. He pays even greater attention to you, down to the last detail—even numbering the hairs on your head! So don't be intimidated by all this bully talk. You're worth more than a million canaries. (Matthew 10:31, The Message)

Story of Stuff

2009-11-17T12:41:00.001-06:00

This is about 20 minutes long. It may be the best 20 minutes you've spent in a long time.

We Are Never Alone

2009-09-23T20:42:00.001-05:00

Do you know the legend of the Cherokee Indian youth’s rite of passages? His father takes him into the forest, blindfolded . . . and leaves him . . . alone. He is required to sit on a stump the whole night, and not take off the blind fold until the sun shines through it. He is all by himself. He cannot cry out for help to anyone. Once he survives the night, he is a MAN. He cannot tell the other boys of his experience. Each lad must come into his own manhood. The boy was terrified…he could hear all kinds of noises …beasts were all around him. Maybe even some human would hurt him. The wind blew the grass and earth…and it shook his stump. But he sat stoically, never removing the blindfold. It would be the only way he could be a man. Finally, after a horrific night, the sun appeared and he removed his blindfold. It was then that he saw his father sitting on the stump next to him…. At watch the entire night. We are never alone. Even when we do not know it, our Father is protecting us. He is sitting on the stump beside us. All we have to do is reach out to Him.

Author Unknown

Umcor Video

2009-09-21T21:34:00.004-05:00

Click Here for Video

Debbie Ewing's Update

2009-08-13T09:21:00.002-05:00

Let's keep each other held up in prayer. I read somewhere that these are times that try men's(and women's) souls. It was a wise person, if memory serves me. The last chapter of "Hop, Skip and A Jump" told us that Revelation is only the beginning,and we are still a part of the plot that God started in Genesis. We can look to each day as an opportunity or a burden. I'm guessing that we will find our service and ministry in the interruptions of the day.

I got this e-mail from Debbie, this morning. We will need to renew our prayer efforts on her behalf.

I got my sacroiliac injection Tuesday afternoon. It is a little to soon to know how much relief it will bring me. My mother was put in the hospital yesterday with pneumonia in one lung. They think it is the result of her taking steroids for her gout. Along with her congestive heart failure this is not good news.

Please keep us in your prayers. I am really having to struggle with needing to be there for her and taking care of myself at the same time. Thank everyone for their prayers and support as always.

Blessings

Debbie Ewing

Brunch Time

2009-08-11T21:10:00.001-05:00

We finished the book. This Sunday we will have brunch. Don't miss it.

See Ya Sunday.

His Story

2009-08-03T21:05:00.000-05:00

My Story from InvisiblePeople.tv on Vimeo.

Interesting information from the City of Waco’s Website.

2009-07-05T19:05:00.001-05:00

Facts and Myths about the Homeless
Link

A Day in the Life of a Homeless Man
Link

Could You Survive on the Streets?
Link

Sometimes It's Fun

2009-05-28T08:53:00.002-05:00

I serve on the District Board of Missions and Church Location and Building. Doesn't that sound exciting? The purpose is to give oversight to the location of and building by the churches of the Waco District. Still exciting? Sometimes there are "God" moments in the tedium of architectural drawings and building plats. Tuesday night was such a moment. Dennis Chapel located in Groesbeck is a historical African-American church. They have struggled for years with a building that is a constant source of maintenance needs. The building is old and located in an area that floods with a heavy dew. They have been in the process of raising money for a new building for some time. The other shoe fell this week. The Fire Marshall has declared the old building as unsafe for occupancy. Because of flooding issues, they have been meeting in a portion of First UMC Groesbeck. Now, they will do all of their activities in the First Church facilities. The location of their property sits adjacent to or across the street from three of the four schools on Groesbeck. It is a perfect place for ministry to children and their families. Last year they had a VBS for the first time in many years with 60-80 children. With 25 members and attendees, they have been able to accumulate $12,000(It was $15,000 but plumbing repairs to the now condemned building took $3,000.) They simply don't recognize the impossibility of their situation and are trusting God to provide. In order to have a functioning building, it will take in excess of $100,000. Yet, they forge ahead. There are mission funds available to the Board for emergencies and ongoing mission projects. The guideline is that we can allocate $10,000 per year from the corpus for a mission project. In 2009, the project is in support of establishment of a Hispanic ministry/worship service at First UMC Waco. We looked at group from Dennis Chapel and listened to their story of hope. We looked at each other and decided that these were guidelines and not rules(semantics?). In the end, we voted to match the $12,000 that they had accumulated, now and grant the 2010 allocation of $10,000 for their project. We also are asking the Mission Leadership Team of the District to organize a Habitat for Humanity style of campaign to assist them in any way we can in the construction of a building for public occupancy. Now, you can see the excitement! There in lies the strength of the Connection when we allow The Spirit to lead. The Dennis Chapel folk shed tears of joy and disbelief.

Barge Party Date Change and other things

2009-05-26T15:38:00.003-05:00

THE BARGE PARTY WILL BE JUNE 13 AT 5PM. THIS IS A CHANGE FROM THE 6TH. RONNY AND MILLIE COULDN'T BE THERE ON THE 6TH(AND SOME OTHERS AS WELL).

Remember to keep Beverly Hill in prayer and send a card of support if you can. She and Chuck are really in need of our support.

Barbara Schultz told me Sunday that Lynn is doing some better and in back in his old room (#44 at Royal Manor, 9114 Royal Lane 76712. Let's give Lynn and Barbara our prayer support.

Think About It

2009-05-25T11:22:00.002-05:00

Sometimes the secular world catches up with the Christian world. A recent edition of "Taking Care" from Unitedhealth Care had this thought.

"ADOPT AND ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE"

"Ready for a happier, healthier life? Then turn every day into Thanksgiving. There's power in being grateful for what you already have.

If you practice gratitude, you may become more content with you life and more optimistic about the future. To put this power to work for you, write down what you're grateful for every day.

As you jot down your blessings, you may feel more alert, attentivew and energized. You also may sleep longer and feel more refreshed when you wake up. Research suggests that grateful people are less likely be be stressed or depressed than people who aren't thankful.

One pioneer in gratitude research in Unversity of California, Davis, psychologist Robert Emmons. Ph.D. In 1998, he asked some of his students to make a daily list of fivc things that they were grateful for. Other students listed five complaints. The students who kept gratitude journals reported being healthier and happier.

Since then, Dr. Emmons has done similar experiments. "We always find the same thing." he says, "People who keep gratitude journals improve the quality of their lives."

Today, let's remember to be grateful for those that have given their lives in sacrifice or faithful living to give us this day in peace and freedom. "Count your blessings, Count them, one by one..."

The Plot Thickens

2009-05-21T10:31:00.002-05:00

Dwyane got us off to a good start on A Hop, Skip and Jump through the bible. He is sneaky, though, he made the group teach the lesson. He is not only sneaky, he is good. As each shared their perspective on the beginning, we found a lot of new thoughts and a lot of common ground. Could it really be that God doesn't work on a 24 hour day? We did decide that when God talks, the world(earth) listens. The serpent didn't really trick Adam and Eve, did he(or she)? When we are asked the wrong question, it tempts us to second guess God. That is not a good thing! The oldest profession is thoracic surgery and the art of passing the buck(fixing blame) are in evidence early on. In the beginning-God and now, the plot thickens and becomes evident. Why would we not expect there to be a common theme and plot? Kallas gives us some good reasons for there not to be in Chapter 2.

The Barge Party is on for June 6! Be there Sunday to help plan the feast! We will need to set a time and menu.

Don't forget to pray for the concerns and cares of Central. Beverly Hill, Scott Hickerson and others. Celebrate the good stuff!

OOPS!

2009-05-11T16:57:00.002-05:00

I forgot to list the celebration, Sunday, of the election(coronation) of Bill McClung as mayor of Golinda. We joked a little at the election, but in truth, there is quite a responsibility involved. Sometimes things that appear inconsequential are not. This is a growing area and the fact that the township is involved with two counties causes more complications to the proper management of growth. Falls county has very few restrictions, but McLennan county has quite a few. We all know what unrestricted and uncontrolled growth looks like. So---we will have to keep "His Honor" and "The Boss" in our prayers.

Also, Dick Campbell is continuing to mend with the shoulder surgery. Judi is recuperating at home from the back surgery. Dick is going to have to get well enough to travel with the Baylor group to China in July. The three day(exaggeration mine) plane trip is beyond what Judi wants to take on just now.

Claudette Ficklin's sister, Shirley, joined Central at the 11am service along with the Fry's. I can only remember a certain amount at at time.

New Book and New members

2009-05-10T18:29:00.003-05:00

We ate, discussed the new book(Dwyane will begin with chapter 1 next Sunday), ate, discussed a class party, ate, decided to exercise our barge party that we purchased at the Fall Festival, ate, decided that one of the first two weekends of June would be our target date. Ronny and Millie Sexton will be moving the middle of June; so the party will be a send off for them and another time to eat. If the barge isn't available on one of those weekends, Marilyn Patterson has graciously offered their home for the party. Not to waste the offer, we will have an ice cream social at the Patterson's at a later date.(not too much later). Watch for the dates on the barge party.

Good news for Ronny and Millie( a little sad for us). They have a contract on their house and Ronny has a good prospect for a job in the Houston area. The target date for moving is June 19.

At the 11am service, John and Barbara Fry moved their membership to Central; so, they became our newest members. Welcome them to the family. We have already adopted them in the class, but now they are a part of the larger family. God will expect more from us this week because we are stronger.

Chuck Hill reported that Beverly is seriously ill in the Mental Health section of Scott & White in Temple. We need to support she and Chuck with prayer and some cards would also be in order.

A HOP, SKIP AND A JUMP....

2009-05-07T11:25:00.002-05:00

THE BOOKS ARE HERE!

As I had hoped, the survey is in large bites(not bytes). The Bible is divided into 13 segments or portions that will give us a better overview of the flow of God's History. When we have finished, our appetite will probably be whetted for some particular section of focus. ARE YOU READY FOR SOME BIBLE?

Kalas sets the stage in his opening Foreword, "I had come to realize that in all the churches I had known there were many people, women and men, younger and older, who participated in Bible studies, but that most of those Bible studies were concentrated on a particular book or section of the Bible, or on some biblical topic. As a result, most of these people had a very disjointed knowledge of the Bible--a little of Genesis, something of the Psalms, the Gospel of John and the Epistle to the Romans--but with no sense of the relationship of these bits and pieces and surely no sense of what I like to call 'the Grand Plot' of the Bible."

His comments remind me of a recipe that gives all the ingredients of the dish to be prepared, but no instructions on the order or manner of combining these ingredients. The relationship of Genesis(the beginning) and Revelation(the final curtain and grand opening) is no less important. Let's commit to reading and study even when we are unable to attend all the sessions. See you Sunday!

New Book and other stuff

2009-05-05T09:32:00.002-05:00

We finished up with Moore's, Healing Where It Hurts, Sunday and have ordered another Kalas book A Hop, Skip And A Jump Through The Bible. This is a 13 session survey study that may spark interest in a particular book or section of The Bible for later study. Hopefully, the books will be in by Sunday for a look see. Ft Worth did not have enough; so, they will be coming from Nashville. Sometimes that means some delay, but not always. Anyway, this will be the community building time for us(spelled brunch). It is time for a discussion of member care, socials and recruitment. We have not taken a specific project, lately. Bring your favorite goodies(or not) and ideas. I have one in mind that was featured in the recent United Methodist Reporter about the birthing kits for the mid-wives in Africa. These provide a safe way to birth a baby in a non-sterile environment.

Judi Campbell has had successful back surgery that should alleviate the back pain and discomfort. Dick was there and reported the surgery went well. Pat went by this morning, Tuesday, and got a good report from her. She should be home by this evening or Wednesday. The surgeon is pleased with her progress, but doesn't want to rush her going home to mow the lawn. Prayers for healing are still in order.

Lynn Schultz is still working with the lingering problems of pneumonia. Barbara told me Sunday, that he is getting a bit grumpy of late. Pat and I were by about a week ago, but he had been out to his daughter's for lunch and was pretty well worn out. Keep Barbara and Lynn in your prayers.

Bill and Cindy McClung have added their tribe with the 13th Grandchild. Pat saw a picture this morning and classified her as "very pretty". We will have to hold a special prayer vigil each holiday that the Grandparents survive. As Bill becomes mayor of Golinda, his family will double the size of the town each visit. I'm still not sure if we need to have a coronation or a ordination. We will have to address Bill as "Your Honor", but will continue to address Cindy as "Boss".

Update From Ron Ewing on Amber Alert

2009-04-29T18:31:00.000-05:00

Thanks to each of you for your prayers. They have been answered. The US Marshalls found them yesterday at the home of the bio-father’s girlfriend’s house in Baton Rouge. The Marshalls said when they stormed the house he fell on the floor and put his hands behind his back.

Crystal, the girl’s mother, goes today to get them. Jenna, the youngest, seems to be a little traumatized as she will not talk to anyone. But hopefully, that will change when Crystal gets there.

Thanks again for all your prayers.

Judy

Email from Ron Ewing

Amber Alert from Ron Ewing

2009-04-23T17:42:00.001-05:00

Class….

This is an Amber Alert that hits home….

The 2 girls that are mentioned are the granddaughters of the sister of someone who works with Debbie……

Your prayers will be appreciated…

See info @ http://www.codeamber.com/bushtx

Ron Ewing

Campbell's Update From Mr. Pat

2009-03-30T22:29:00.002-05:00

Hi Guys – thanks for the phone call, I apologize for not keeping in touch. I expected to be back to church yesterday. We also received a nice note from Linda Freeto.

It was me that had rotator cuff surgery, and I am in an immobilizer sling, so I basically can’t use my right arm for 6 weeks. That includes driving, and also makes it impossible to work the sound board. So my schedule is at the mercy of others for a while.

Judi is doing better and still having her situation evaluated. She goes back to the neurosurgeon this week.

Please give my regards to the Covenant class, and we hope to see you next Sunday, tho.

Dick Campbell

Note From Brenda & Norman

2009-03-28T19:08:00.001-05:00

Dwayne and Linda, got your email about the class doing the Wed Eve meal this week. We were sorry to not be able to help with it and hope the weather was OK for cooking the burgers outside. Norman has had an respiratory illness for the last 2 weeks. He got some meds from the Doc and he is getting better now and able to be out some, but still not up to par. Can you guess the rest of the story? I have it now.

We won't plan on being in SS and Church tomorrow. We certainly don't want to pass this along to anyone else. Hope to see you all next Sunday, Norman and Brenda

An Alert and some updates

2009-03-18T22:32:00.002-05:00

This Sunday, only, we will meet in the CrossTrainers classroom because of the Carter Blood drive in the Fellowship Hall. Carl asked that we make room for the blood drive. It is unusual for a drive on Sunday, but I guess that's because there are more people in the building.

Barbara Schultz told me that Lynn is making good progress since his surgery and is becoming more stable and able to move about better.

Debbie Ewing is still progressing. The pain has gone from excruciating to aggravating. She endured church and SS this week. Ron seems to be happier, too.

We will be doing the Wednesday night meal on the 25th. Barbara has to be out of town and we will cover that part of the ministry in her absence. It will be a hamburger meal and Pat will have a sign up sheet for workers and stuff.

Don't forget that Saturday, Central is hosting a Conference event and we will need greeters and hosts at various times of the day. The early shift will be about 8:30(am) and there may be need for Bob Waller support at the noon time. Call if you have questions. 772-2316

REMINDER/NOTICE

2009-03-14T10:32:00.002-05:00

This is to remind those that were in class when Beverly Hill asked that we bring clothes(gently used) for women that are interviewing for jobs. They need not be "dressy", but not t-shirts and jeans, either. They are to go to women that are seeking employment through one of the local agencies. Thanks. Guys, I guess our turn to give will come later.

His Honor The Mayor

2009-03-10T10:21:00.003-05:00

Watch for a star in the Southeast(not East) after the upcoming elections. Mr. Bill McClung will become His Honor McClung as he ascends to the mayor's office of Golinda. I'm not sure if we have to bow to Bill and First Lady Cindy, but we certainly should have a coronation party. We will have until May 9 to make that decision. My guess is that there is more to this than meets the eye. These areas require a watchful eye as they become the targets for real estate developers. Congratulations, Bill!

Update From Ron & Debbie Ewing

2009-03-04T19:18:00.000-06:00

Today, the hospital called and had a cancellation, allowing Debbie to get an injection in her back for the pain in her leg. She was not scheduled until May 17. Hopefully this will ease the pain in her leg.
Regarding her eye surgery, her recovery is continuing on the right track.
Thanks for your prayers & concern
Ron & Debbie

Follow up from Dick Williams

2009-03-04T12:35:00.000-06:00

I lifted up Lisa Walters in our Sunday school class last Sunday. Tragically, her daughter, 21 year old Lindsay was killed in a vehicle

accident this past Sunday morning. Lindsay’s funeral service will be held this Friday in Georgetown. I ask that you pray for her family

and also all families involved as this is devastating to all persons involved. I work closely with Lisa daily in our Anticoagulation Clinic

and know that she and her daughter Lindsay were very close and best friends. And I know that Lisa is a perfect example of a Christian as was her daughter, Lindsay.

Lindsay’s obituary can be found by searching the http://www.theeagle.com/news/ and then looking under obituaries.

Dick

Job Seekers - Let's Pray

2009-03-02T19:58:00.000-06:00

Times are tough and people are losing their jobs. New jobs are hard to find. I lost my job a while back and it was tough finding a new job. I had to learn to be patient and to pray for the right thing to come along. I had support from other people praying for me and my job search.

Wes Hogue is searching for a job and let us pray for him and others that are searching. Let me know of others that might be searching so I can add them to the prayer list.

We can all pray for our brothers and sisters.

Yours in Christ