Opps, Did I really say that....Day 26 Lent 2015

Day 26 Lent 2015

"You must understand this, my beloved:  let everyone be quick to listen, slow to speak, slow to anger;  for your anger does not produce God’s righteousness."  James 1.19-20

Think twice before speaking once!  Don't put your foot in you mouth!  That's why you have two ears and only one mouth!  All these sayings speak to a similar truth that James is trying to get across to his community: words are powerful and can destroy in a moment what has taken a lifetime to build.   When I talk about the power of words with our young people I invite them to realize that with only a few choice words I could destroy our relationship.  They would never think of me the same again, nor would they have much respect for me and how I live my life.  This is true, even if they have known me for years, a few choice words can destroy everything.

I guess as Christians we shouldn't be so surprised at the power of words.  After all we confess that God created all things through the power of the Word and that Jesus himself is this Word of God, incarnate.  So why is it that we forget the power of words...the power to lift up and the power to lay waste?

Why not intentionally use this day for the positive power of words spoken in love.  Find something nice to say about everyone you encounter--and share that word as often as is appropriate.  Think of it as an extra credit Lenten discipline!

A prayer for today: "Dear Lord, slow down our need for anger and our desire to be defensive around others.  Instead help us to us our words to lift up and strengthen the relationships that surround us. Amen."

A work in progress.....Day 25 Lent 2015

Day 25 Lent 2015

"I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ."  Philippians 1.6

Everything will be alright!  Oh I know there are troubles and concerns and I know that often times our faith seems to be wavering on the precipice of disaster; but we have a promise here that God does not abandon the work that God has begun in our lives.  And make no mistake, God has begun something in you.  The story really begins before you were born, as you were known to God even before that first breathe entered your lungs.   

For the Christian this claiming is found in the gift of Holy Baptism, where the promise of God claims us as children of God and heirs with Christ to all that God has done.   This day, claim with confidence that gift and promise.  With Paul rejoice that while the road may still be long, and while you--like the rest of us--still have lots of room for growth and spiritual maturity; God is at work in your life and you will not be left out on the great and glorious day of our Lord!

A prayer for today:  "Dear God, remind us this day that you are near and at work in our lives as we grow into your love for us and all creation.  Amen"

Cheers to Patrick! Day 24 Lent 2015

Day 24 Lent 2015

 “But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you,  bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you."  Luke 6.27-28

On this feast day of St. Patrick I can't help but be drawn to these words from Jesus from the Gospel of Luke.  (Similar are found in Matthew as well).   Here in America St. Patrick's Day will be used as an excuse to get drunk, to turn things green, to pinch the unlucky wearer of anything but green, and to foster the belief in the wee people who create mischief and disorder.

Why have we forgotten about Patrick?  Maybe because he actually lived out the words of Jesus above and by doing so he showed that these words were not just an unattainable goal--but could become a reality.   When we get beyond the fairy tales (no he didn't drive snakes out of Ireland) we find a person of faith who followed the word of God even when it meant returning to where he had been enslaved.   Patrick was 16 when taken by Irish pirates from his home in Britain.  After some 6 years as a captive he walked over 200 miles to find a boat that would take him back to his homeland.  Upon his return he took up the study for the priesthood and then some 15 years later, he followed a vision that he should go back to Ireland and witness to the Gospel.  

So if you find yourself in a pub tonight, hush the crowd and propose a toast to Patrick, a saint of God who dared to live out the words of Jesus by loving his enemies and praying for those who had done him wrong!  To Patrick!  Cheers!

A prayer for today:    Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ on my right, Christ on my left.   May I do all that I do this day remembering you O Lord.  Amen.   

It's a little bright in here! Day 23 Lent 2015

Day 23 Lent 2015

"I have come as light into the world, so that everyone who believes in me should not remain in the darkness."  John 12.46

Christ of St. John of the Cross
Dali, 1951

The funny thing about light is that it can be both comforting and oppressive.  If you are struggling to stay on a trail at night then a flash light can be your best friend.  That same light, when held by someone else and pointed at your face can become disorienting and the cause of concern.  We often just think of light in its positive meaning, but it does have its "dark side"  --pardon the pun! A nice dark steak house can hide the fact that I have a little bit of stain on my shirt; while a well light restaurant gives me no cover.  

If I'm honest, sometimes I prefer hiding in the dark.  I prefer the shadows, because in the shadows others can't see my imperfections.   Jesus calls us out of the shadows, out of the darkness into the light. This can be somewhat painful.  It's like looking at the face in the mirror and wondering what ever happened to that poor chap!   But Jesus' call to the light is not for the sake of embarrassment but for the sake of honesty.  That we might truly come to understand the nature of who we are, that we are creatures, that we often fall short of the glory of God and that we are more dependent than we would care to let on.   Good!  This kind of honest assessment helps us to see the reality of our brokenness and drives us into the arms of Christ.  

But, here's the thing, once the light has caused us to squirm and face our own reflection, it now become the variable 'lamp unto our feet' and helps to guild our way home!  

A prayer for today:  "Dear Lord, the light of your presence is both judgment and mercy (Law and Gospel).  Help us to prefer the honesty of the light to the delusions of our darkness.  Amen" 

Fourth Sunday of Lent

THE FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT

As you know, Sundays are not a part of the 40 days of Lent; but they are still an important part of our Lenten discipline.   Take time for worship today!   This morning the lesson will be from John 3 and will include one of the most famous and recognizable pieces of scripture in the whole world.  John 3.16:  "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life."

Pretty ordinary lives.....Day 22 Lent 2015

Day 22 Lent 2015

"Soldiers also asked him, “And we, what should we do?” He said to them, “Do not extort money from anyone by threats or false accusation, and be satisfied with your wages.”" Luke 3.14

Soldiers at Qsar el Jehud
The place of Jesus' baptism at the river Jordan

I've always loved this little section of Luke's Gospel where folks who are going out to see John the Baptizer ask for advice as to what they should do to live lives that show their repentance.  That is, how shall our lives show to others what we have come to believe.  John's answer to the crowds, to the tax collectors, and here to the Soldiers is quite...well...nonspiritual.   

He doesn't say that they should go to prayer 5 times a day or perform some rigorous task like climb a mountain or undertake a great journey.  No, they could best show what they've come to believe by allowing it to reflect in how they lived their every day common lives.  In the case of the soldiers, don't use your vocation (and weapons) as a means of intimidation in order to manipulate others and take what is not yours and be content with what you have.  

We often try to make faith way to complicated.  Faith is best served when we translate it into our everyday actions and relationships.  Imagine yourself asking this same question to John the Baptizer.  "And I, what shall I do?"  What do you think John's reply would be?  Then go and do it!

A prayer for the day:  "Dear Lord, help us to live out our faith each and everyday in concrete ways that both serve our neighbor and give glory to you.  Amen."  

Keep on knocking....Day 21 Lent 2015

Day 21 Lent 2015

"Listen! I am standing at the door, knocking; if you hear my voice and open the door, I will come in to you and eat with you, and you with me." Revelation of John 3.20

This is one of the most famous verses in the Revelation of John and has even inspired a famous Christian folk art painting with Jesus at the door.  There is one important part of this painting that I have never liked.  (maybe you do and that's OK).  It is painted with no door knob on Jesus said of the door.  It's supposed to indicate that it's up to us to let Jesus in.  The implication is that if we fail to open the door, then we have lost out on Christ.

Christ knocking at Hearts door, Warner Sallman

I prefer to ponder the image of Christ knocking.  Knocking.  Knocking on each and every door in my life.  It is not that Christ can't come in and stand beside me, for often he does.  In fact in the Resurrection accounts he needed no such invite to be present with his disciples  (see  John 20.19 ).  The point is I think that I am to be reminded that Christ is always there.  Always present.  Always makes himself available.  That being said, he does not force himself into our lives but is always there at the ready.  The point is to keep our ears attuned for the knocking of Christ, that is, to never forget that no matter where we might find ourselves, Jesus is there at the ready to stand beside us.  For more on the painting and a nice explanation click HERE

A prayer for the day:  "Dear Lord, help us to have ears that  hear you knocking at the doors of our lives and may we cherish the gift of your presence. Amen." 

Praying away those things that stalk us.....Day 20 Lent 2015

Day 20 Lent 2015

 "Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you." 1 Peter 5.7

For most of us there are those moments when we can feel an anxious spirit beginning to creep up upon us.  It is like a predator that ever so slowly gets closer and closer, until we can almost feels it's warm breath breathing down the nape of our neck.   Sometimes the source of our anxiety is easy to diagnose: an upcoming confrontation, a lack of resources, a certain predicament that has ensnared us or a loved one.  But other times our anxieties seem to be more vague and undefined, just a sense of uneasiness that begins to take over our thoughts.

Here Peter gives us some sound advice when it comes to our anxieties---pray them over to the Lord.  And there is an ancient prayer technique for doing this, it's called the prayer of relinquishment.   Begin by closing your eyes and praying with your hands outstretched and your palms up.  Feel the wait of your anxieties in the palm of your hands.  Recognize and name them if you can.  Then, recite the list again, this time slowly turning your hands so that your palms eventually will be facing down.  After each anxiety is named  (if it is unnameable then just call it 'anxiousness') say, "I give this to you O Lord."   At the end of the prayer repeat the passage above from 1 Peter.  

You might have to repeat this prayer over and over again, but my experience tells me that there is relief to be found and that Peter's advice is solid.  

A prayer for the day:  "Dear Heavenly Father, as we travel through the waters of fear and anxiety remind us that you are present, and encourage us to cast those things that would dampen our spirits unto you.  Amen."

Have a drink..... Day 19 Lent 2015

Day 19 Lent 2015

"On the last day of the festival, the great day, while Jesus was standing there, he cried out, “Let anyone who is thirsty come to me."  John 7.37

Jesus was in Jerusalem for what was known as the festival of Booths or Sukkot.  Part of this festival involved the high priest coming down to the spring of Siloam and he would fill a golden pitcher and then pour it out as a reminder of God's providing for the people--in their day, and in the exodus from Egypt.  

Pool of Siloam, taken from my last trip
to the Holy Land with Linda H and Marlene F.

Imagine in the middle of this, Jesus standing up and shouting:  Let anyone who is thirsty come to me."  It is not water that Jesus was offering, but the gift of the Holy Spirit.  A gift that like water gives life and satisfies our deepest needs.  Just as we can become thirsty and need to replenish ourselves with water, so our spirit can become dry and lifeless.  We to need to be replenished for the spiritual journey ahead, and Jesus promises to satisfy our spiritual needs through the giving of the Holy Spirit.

And you have this Holy Spirit within you!  No, you say!  Yes!  Scripture promises that you can not say "Jesus is Lord" without the Spirit (1 Corinthians 12.3).  Take time today to pray for the Holy Spirit to rejuvenate and satisfy your spiritual thirst.   And be confident that this gift is already in you--ready to flow from your heart like a fountain.  Why not even visualize this happening.  Close your eyes, see your spirit-filled heart and now visualize a valve being opened that releases the Spirit to flow throughout your body and into the world.  Breath deep and drink of the Spirit.

A prayer for today: Dear Lord, may the Holy Spirit flow from our hearts and quench our thirst, and may our heart, body and mind be moved to praise you for the life giving water that you bring.  Amen."

The Fountain of Youth! Day 18 Lent 2015

Day 18 Lent 2015

"So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day." 2 Corinthians 4.16

It is said that Juan Ponce de Le'on searched for the fountain of youth and hear in the New World we continue his frantic quest.  We are obsessed with youth.  We are obsessed as a culture with trying to defy the reality of our growing older by hiding the signs of our aging through any number of products that restore color, increase libido, defy gravity, and convince us that we are immune to the ravages of time.    Here's the stats:  Americans spent in 2014 over 10 BILLION dollars on cosmetic plastic surgery.  It is estimated that the anti-aging generates 88 BILLION dollars a year--in America!

The Apostle Paul knows what we--even with our surgeries, pills, dyes, procedures, and denial--have tried to forget.  Our bodies eventually will betray us.  We are creatures with a limited lifespan; but there is a part of us that is immortal.   The key to a healthy life, and healthy aging--according to Paul--is to nurture our inner nature, that is to grow in our spiritual awareness and as disciples of Jesus.  While our bodies are destined to decline, our spirit has the potential to grow and evolve.  

Interesting how we throw so much time and money into that which is destined for dust; and pay so little attention to that which is destined for glory!

A prayer: "Dear Lord, we are indeed marvelously made and we thank you for gift of life.  We ask that as our own strength fades that we might grow in our love and appreciation for all that you have done, now, and in the world to come.  Amen"

Wait for it...... Day 17 Lent 2015

Day 17 Lent 2015

"Wait for the Lord;
    be strong, and let your heart take courage;
    wait for the Lord!"   Psalm27.14

      Paul "Bear" Bryant is widely considered to be one of the greatest college football coaches of all time. Bryant's record in 38 years at Maryland, Kentucky, Texas A&M, and Alabama included 323 wins. He also took 29 teams to bowl games and led 15 of his teams to conference championships. In the 1960s and 1970s, no school won more games than Alabama (193-32-5). He won 6 national championships and was SEC coach of the year 11 times. As one of his colleagues said, "He wasn't just a coach; he was the coach."

     John Croyle, an All-American defensive end on the 1973 national championship team, played for the Bear, and shared this story of one of coach Bryant's pregame speeches.

“In this game, there are going to be four or five plays that will determine the outcome of this contest. Four or five plays that will swing the momentum toward us, or away from us. I don't know which plays these will be. You don't know which plays these will be. All you can do is go out there and give all that you have on each and every play.”

Here’s the reality—Our life is made up of a series of moments. A few of those moments will be absolutely transformative—they will change our life and the lives of others forever. But since we usually don't know which moments will be the "game-changers," the Bible repeatedly urges us to "wait on the Lord."  But this is not a passive waiting.  A kind of do nothing existence.  On the contrary we should be always on the lookout, expectant and hopeful that God can use any random moment to be a moment of Grace that blesses you and the world.

A prayer for today:  "Good and gracious Lord, help me to live this day expecting to see you and your work in my life.  Guard me from despair and give me the courage I need to face each and every situation with confidence and hope!  Amen."

This is the day! The 3rd Sunday in Lent

THE THIRD SUNDAY in LENT

Bernardino, Mei  Christ clearing the Temple

Once again, Sundays are not considered a part of the 40 days of Lent.  Each Sunday is a little 'Easter' in and of itself.   Nevertheless our Sunday Readings and worship are an important part of the Lenten discipline and experience.  Today in the morning (830 and 1030) we'll experience a side of Jesus that makes us uncomfortable....he's angry in the Temple!  At 6pm we'll continue or movement through the Gospel of Matthew and look at the theme of "Forgiveness."  

                                                                           Make time for worship!  WE need you! 

Running on empty! Day 16 Lent 2015

Day 16 Lent 2015

"She had a sister named Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to what he was saying."  Luke 10.39

She?  Who is she?  That would be Martha who is also a friend and follower of Jesus. Martha and Mary are not only sisters but locked together for eternity as the polar opposites of discipleship.  Martha was a doer!  A type "A" go getter that didn't have time for folks not pulling their own weight when there was work to be done.  Mary on the other hand is the sibling who will gladly let other's do while she sits at the Lord's feet and exercises her mind and imagination.  

VELÁZQUEZ, Diego Rodriguez de Silva y Christ in the House of Mary and Martha
c. 1620

In my experience Martha's don't always have a lot of appreciation for the Mary's of the world!  And I'll also confess, I give thanks to God above for the many Martha's throughout my ministry that have been such faithful doers of the Word (God bless you, you know who you are!).

That being said, even the Martha's of the world can benefit from the example that Mary sets.  You see sometimes we can get so overly scheduled and tired that we don't realize just how empty our own spiritual reserves are getting.   Prayer, worship, slow meditation on the scriptures, all of these things can help recharge our batteries and keep us at our spiritual best.  

Once again, for all you Martha's out there--I love you!  That being said, make sure you take some time to fill your own tank and sit at the feet of the master.

A prayer:  "Loving God, each and every day is filled with opportunities for us to be at work in the world.  Thank you for the blessing of work and purpose.  Help us to recognize when it is that we need to refresh ourselves by the still waters that you lead us toward.  Amen."

Can I get a witness Day 15 Lent 2015

Day 15 Lent 2015

"... and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”  Acts 1.8b

I wonder today how it is that I can be a witness for Christ?  I have to admit, part of me cringes when I hear this word 'witness' because I think of Christians standing on street corners and yelling out threats of doom and damnation.   That's just not for me.  

But luckily we can witness to Christ in many ways and I am convinced that each and everyone of us is indeed called to do just this--be a witness.  But what about us timid folks who just don't feel really comfortable with this?  Here are some ways that you can be a witness that even the most timid can embrace!    1) Actually reference 'church' or 'worship' or 'Jesus' in your casual conversations. Now I don't mean get in someones face and preach at them, what I mean is let folks know that you are a person of faith and that you actually make time for this. Think of how easy this would be:  "At church yesterday I saw the cutest purse!"  "After worship we found the best place to just sit and relax." "My pastor yesterday told the goofiest joke!" "Jesus tells us to love our neighbors, but I don't think he ever had to drive on the 91!"  2) Make sure you tweet, facebook, instagram (whatever social media you use) whenever you can about being at church or coming to worship.  How about this on Tweeter:  "Sitting in church and reminded about the power of love!"  Or what about an Instagram that shows the patio after worship and says:  "Donuts at church...whatever happened to lead us not into temptation!"

I know these are silly, but my point is that being a witness to Jesus is something we all can do.  How will you be a witness today?

A prayer: "Dear God, help us to be lamps in the midst of darkness and help us to have the courage to be bearers of your light!  Amen."

Driving by Braille! Day 14 Lent 2015

Day 14  Lent 2015

"We don’t yet see things clearly. We’re squinting in a fog, peering through a mist. But it won’t be long before the weather clears and the sun shines bright! We’ll see it all then, see it all as clearly as God sees us, knowing him directly just as he knows !"         1 Corinthians 13.12  The Message Translation

I can remember it like it was just yesterday, driving on Highway 99, stereo blaring, leaving Fresno and hitting a patch of the deadly Tule fog.  It was early January and I was in a hurry to get to Sacramento when all of a sudden my visibility lowered to about 2 feet.  Given the fact that I was going 65 miles an hour and had no idea of who was ahead of me, or who was behind me, it became very clear why this phenomenon of the San Joaquin Valley is the leading cause of weather related causalities in California. 
What makes it so terrifying is that you know it is not safe to stop and it is not safe to continue, it is the proverbial 'damned if you do and damned if you don't' situation.  So the best thing is to slow down, roll down your window and listen attentively and keep your eyes on the fog line; oh and pray like you've never prayed before! 

The passage above comes from the famous "love chapter" and is often
omitted at weddings.  But it deserves to be read within the context of this great chapter.  There will be times in life when our options will all seem less than ideal.  There will be those moments when we aren't sure what is the best approach and will realize that the decisions we make may have important lasting consequences.  What do you do in such times?  Rely on love.  When forced into a situation with several bad options, roll down the window of prayer--straining to hear what God might be saying--then pick the one that is most loving and remember that when the weather clears--and it will--it's a lot easier to live with a decision, even if it didn't turn out right, that was based in love.

A prayer: "Dear Lord, when confronted with choices and decisions that all seem to be less than ideal, help me to find the path that is most loving, and be content with knowing that is the best that I can do.  Amen"

Go and do! Day 13 Lent 2015

Day 13 Lent 2015

Vincent Van Gogh,
The Good Samaritan, 1890

"Those who oppress the poor insult their Maker,
    but those who are kind to the needy honor him."  Proverbs 14.31

Today's thought is going to be incredibly simple.   Taking to heart the words of Proverbs above, find time today to be kind to the needy and thus give honor to the Lord our God! 

Why not memorize this little verse and recite it every time you have an opportunity to honor the Lord!

Prayer for today:  "Dear Lord, you are the one from whom all good things flow! Open are hearts to share with others what you have first given us. Amen."

To be loving or to be right....that is the question Day 12 Lent 2015

Day 12 Lent 2015

"Welcome those who are weak in faith,^[a] but not for the purpose of quarreling over opinions."  Romans 14.1    [a] or conviction

Thomas Aquinas,
painted by Fra Angelico
1340

How much time is wasted by the church as we quarrel over opinions?  Almost any town in America has a church on the corner where at some point and time the people got in a quarrel with each other, or the pastor, or some issue and the result was a new church built on a different corner for those who "held to the truth." 

Paul continues in Chapter 14.4, "who are you to pass judgement on the servant of another."  Sometimes we have to get beyond the labels of "right" and "wrong" and work on such things as "Love" and "Mercy."  A church that is afraid of diversity of opinion is a church that is closed to the Holy Spirit.

Our prayer for today is actually a quote from Thomas Aquinas:   “We must love them both, those whose opinions we share and those whose opinions we reject, for both have labored in the search for truth, and both have helped us in finding it.”

Do not worry....that's worrisome! Day 11 Lent 2015

Day 11 Lent 2015

"Do not worry about anything, bu in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God."  Philippians 4.6

I imagine that like you I have lots of worries.  I worry about small things and big things. I worry about my family and my abilities.  I worry about the climate and the human race.  Now granted, most of my worries are "first world problems."  I don't tend to worry about where my next meal will come from or whether I'll be able to find enough clean water to sustain myself and my family; but I do worry.

Paul, following in the footsteps of Jesus declares that worry is less than helpful and not a part of the Christian life (Matthew 6.25-34); but sometimes I find this worriesome!  Woe is me!

Luckily Paul seems to add some ammunition to the fight against worry. He encourages us to pray with supplication, that is an earnest plea for God's intervention.  But he follows this with the fact that we should do this with thanksgiving.  That is we can be confident that our prayers, our supplications, all those things that concern us have been presented to God and that God will be at work not only in those things that we have lifted up, but in our lives as well helping to live beyond the anxiety of worry.   

A prayer for today:  "Dear God, so many questions and concerns bombard us this day that we tend to focus on them and not your word.  Give us the strength to recall your promises of love and presence and to be confident and thankful that you always hear our prayers. Amen"

This is the day....2nd Sunday in Lent 2015

Second Sunday in Lent

"This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it."  Psalm 118.24

Sunday's are not a part of the 40 days of Lent, but a celebration of the resurrection and joy of Christ.   Take this day to worship  (Come to OSLC if you can 830, 1030 and 6pm---but take time!!!)   The Bible tells us that the Sabbath has two purposes:  to give you rest from the toil and weariness of the week and to offer a time for us to offer worship and praise to God.  A good Sabbath is when you can do both!   Happy Sunday.  

God wants to 'pump you up!" Lent 2015, Day 10

Day 10, Lent 2015

"I will set my eyes upon them for good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up, and not tear them down; I will plant them, and not pluck them up."  Jeremiah 24.6

Jeremiah is known for his hard and critical words, but here he delivers an amazing message of hope for all of God's people.   God is for you!  Take a moment to let that just sink in.  We know that this world has it's hardships; but in the midst of those trials never forget that God is not only present but looks upon you with eyes of favor and delight.   This doesn't mean that God is a genie who will serve at our command and protect us from every encounter.  But God is there to cheer us on as we navigate the decisions of life, and provides for those opportunities for us to be built up and planted strong.  (Psalm 1.3).

Keep an eye out for those things that God provides.  People, friendships and resources that can help build you up and keep you planted firmly in the love of Christ!

A prayer:  "Loving God, you have promised to keep your eyes upon us and provide for our building up and firm foundation.   May we remember and build on this as we live out our lives each and every day.  Amen."

Priorities and Values, Day 9, Lent 2015

Day 9, Lent 2015

^"And the Lord stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel son of Shealtiel, governor of Judah, and the spirit of Joshua son of Jehozadak, the high priest, and the spirit of all the remnant of the people; and they came and worked on the house of the Lord of hosts, their God..."  Haggai 1.14

The prophet Haggai has just delivered a word from the Lord: while the people have been eagerly at work building their own homes, taking care of their own needs and pursuing their own dream; the have given little thought, time or energy to the house of God.   So God stirred up in the leaders and the people a new passion for working together on the rebuilding of the Temple.

How easy it is for us to tend to our own needs and forget the needs of the community.   What kinds of ministry could we accomplish if we dared to work together?  What impact could we have in the name of Jesus if we lovingly brought our gifts and talents to do the Lord's work.   Our faith is meant to be lived out in community and we need each other.    How might the Holy Spirit be calling you to be at work in the house of the Lord?   Have you become so preoccupied with your own needs that you have forgotten from whom all blessings flow?

The spiritual life is one of balance and a part of that balance is regularly reassessing how we spend our lives in relation to the values that we say we confess.   Take some time right now to reflect on that need for balance and if needed make a decision to have your life reflect your values first and foremost.

A prayer:  "Gracious Lord, stir up in us a desire to be a part of your kingdom and the knowledge that our hearts and lives are always going to be restless until they rest in you.  Amen"

Built on a rock! Lent 2015 Day 8

Lent 2015 Day 8

“Everyone then who hears these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock."  Matthew 7.24

Hearing isn't enough!  We aren't talking about salvation here, we know that we are saved by grace a part from any works of the law.  Here in the sermon on the mount Jesus is talking about living as God's people, and this means more than just listening, it means doing!   Today I would like to give you a very small assignment.  Right now, think about something that you know Jesus has said, but which you have trouble acting upon.  (Forgive others, Love your enemy, Don't serve two masters, Give to Caesar what is Caesar's and to God what is God's, Love one another as I have loved you, Don't worry about the speck in your neighbor's eye when you have a plank in your own, Do not worry, Where your treasure is there your heart will be also, Do good to those who hate you, Turn the other check, etc....)  Now make a concrete decision to act on this!  Move from hearing to acting and you just might find yourself standing on the rock of salvation!  (Psalm 18.46) 

A prayer:  "Dear Lord help me to have ears to hear your words and the courage and will to act on what I have heard, this day and everyday!  Amen."

Simplicity as a virtue day 7 Lent 2015

Day 7, Lent 2015

"Not that I am referring to being in need; for I have learned to be content with whatever I have."  Philippians 4.11

The apostle Paul reminds us that we are to be content with whatever we have; but this advice flies in the face of our North American culture and the constant barrage of advertisements that suggest we aren't truly experiencing the good life unless we have more and more.   In our search for contentment we find ourselves engaging in 'retail therapy' and boosting our self esteem by what we possess and how we believe we are perceived by others.     This is a dangerous path that feeds an unsatiable beast. So dangerous that even the Ten Commandments speak to the issue of coveting, always wanting what others have (Exodus 20.17)

What would happen if you decided to stop playing this cultural game and were content with the car your drive, the house you live in, the clothes you possess, the body you've been given?

How would your life change if you embraced this thought: what gives a person worth is not what they make or what they have, but what they are willing to give away?

A prayer: "Lord Jesus, you lead us by example against a life of excess.  Make us comfortable with less in a society that says 'more.'  Let us live our lives with the goal of praising you, not of being praised for what we have.  Amen"

Day 6: Lent 2015 But it's supposed to be about me!

Day 6 Lent 2015

"I am writing to you, little children,
    because your sins are forgiven on account of his name."  1 John 2.12

I don't think many of us really understand what sin is.  We often think of sin as those things we do: stealing, lying, cheating, sexual indiscretion, etc... .  Those actions might be 'sinful' but they are not sin.  Sin is the human condition that keeps us from loving God, neighbor and self as we should.   This lack of love for God, neighbor and self is manifest in many ways that are destructive to the  lives we have been called to live in Jesus.   The problem is we think we can tackle sin by our own fortitude, by our own efforts and abilities and this is a recipe for disaster!  Guilt, shame, feelings of hypocrisy can be the constant companion for those who try to go it alone.

So what is the answer?  John suggests that we begin with the stunning truth and Good News of Jesus Christ.  On his account, those things that keep us from loving God, neighbor and ourselves have been forgiven.    Psalm 103.12 proclaims:   "He has taken our sins [transgressions] away from us, as far as the east is from west."   This means we are free today to live as the people God has called us to be. Our past sins are forgiven/forgotten and we need to lay them down as well.   We need to leave behind the stuck emotions of guilt, shame and remorse and move forward in confidence that the Holy Spirit will be at work calling us into the future.  Let me put it this way:  stop wasting time with guilt and shame, trying to prove to God that you are really sorry, accept the gift of his love and forgiveness and move on!   Remember it's not about you!  

A prayer for today:  "Forgiving Father, you know our sins. You see our need for love, hope, and forgiveness. Despite our sometimes-troubled days, we know deep down that you are there for us and we ask you to forgive us our trespasses and give us the confidence that we are truly forgiven for the sake of Jesus. In your name we pray. Amen."

Eyes and Ears.... day 5

^{Lent 2015 Day 5
"} But blessed are your eyes, for they see, and your ears, for they hear. "  Matthew 13.16

Jesus has just told a series of parables and quoted a verse from the prophet Isaiah in which the people are said to have shut eyes and closed ears.  But not so for the followers of Jesus.  Indeed we are blessed when our eyes see and our ears are open.

Funny, because sometimes it feels better to not see: to not see the pain in the world, the sufferings of others, the opportunities that I have to serve.  And sometimes I would rather not hear: hear the cries for justice, the words of the poor and oppressed, the pleas for mercy.  

But Jesus reminds us that we are blessed when our eyes and ears are open.  Open to the Word and open to the world.  May you go through this day with eyes and ears open and consider how that blesses you and the world.

A prayer for the day:  "No matter where we go, Lord, you go with us. In each breath we take there is the Holy Spirit filling us to excess with love, mercy, and grace. May each breath that leaves us gift others with the same blessings. Amen."

Sunday Blessings!

Sunday's are not a part of the 40 days of Lent.  Each Sunday in and of itself is a little celebration of the Resurrection.  Take some time for Sabbath today!  Attend worship, read the scriptures, pray for the world and for God to give you strength and clarity in all that you do.  For God is good and will never leave you!

A Sunday Prayer:  Wise Comforter, sometimes we feel small. We lose our way and we question our purpose. Remind us today that you have a plan for each of us. Remind us that we are valuable and full of purpose, beautifully and wonderfully made. May we glorify you. Amen.

Take a Hike!!!

Day 4 Lent 2015:   "Praise him, sun and moon; praise him, all you shining stars! For he commanded, and they were created." Psalm 148:3,5

"Great and marvelous

are your deeds, Lord God Almighty." Revelation 15:3 (NIV)

I've often heard folks say that they feel closer to God out in nature than they do in the church.  I understand that.  Even the sacred scriptures lift up the power of creation that points to the wonder and majesty of God.  There is a subtle difference though between seeing God in creation and seeing God.  You see, creation as beautiful as it is--go to the beach and watch a sunset, hike into Yosemite, visit the Grand Canyon--is not God, but what I like to call the 'fingerprints of God."  A sure and certain sign of God's presence, but not God.  To stop at creation would be akin to admiring a Christmas present for its wrapping and bows and never opening it up.   

For we who follow Jesus, God is most fully present in him.  God is to be discovered in the wine and bread--one holy food given for us--and in the waters of baptism--a rebirthing and adoption into God's family.  God is to be found in the Word that continues through the Holy Spirit to call, gather and enlighten God's people.    

But this is messy.  This involves people, what we call the church.  But ultimately we are called not to simply marvel at the handiwork of the creator but to join in relationship with God and each other.

Marvel at the beauty of the world and the universe...it is amazing!  But don't forget to seek the one whose handiwork this is...and that requires seeing oneself as a part of the beauty played out in the relationships we share with each other.

Almighty One, you shine on us through your sun, your moon, your stars. Day or night, we need only look to the heavens to feel your presence and know that you are there for us. May your light shine on everyone and in the relationships you've given us. Amen.

Good day Ambassador!

Day 3:    "So we are 
ambassadors for Christ, since God is making his appeal through us..."  2 Corinthians 5.20

Yesterday I had the fun of taking a 16 year old boy from Russia around San Clemente.   This is his first time in America for Theo and so I had the responsibility of being an ambassador so to speak for all things good and right about our country.  He's 16, so first stop was "Rocket Fizz" candy shop on Del Mar where he couldn't believe the choices that surrounded him.  I asked him if he ever had a root beer before?  No, being the answer we bought an ice cold premium Root beer for him to enjoy.  "Ohhhhh very good!"  Was the response.  

Next we went to T-Street to walk a bit along the beach and finished off at La Tiendita.  He had never had Mexican food before.   Note to self: 16 year old Russians seem to like Carne Asada, but not Cilentro!

Being an Ambassador was a mixture of conscientious thinking for the welfare of my guest coupled with a desire to show all that is good and right with America and American culture.   I wonder if this is not how it is also with being an ambassador for Christ.  As ambassadors we are called to lovingly receive those who come into our midst, recognizing that they may have different ideas and concerns and taking those differences seriously.  Nevertheless, we represent something good and wonderful that we want to share with them.  We want them to see and experience what Christ means for us and how we live out this faith in the world.

So, Mr and Mrs. Ambassador...do just that.  Love and respect others for who they are, but never forget that you through your baptism and faith have something wonderful to share.  And who knows, the reaction just might be, "ohhhhh very good!"

What do we proclaim?

Day 2 Lent 2015:  

"For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as servants for Jesus’ sake." 2 Corinthians 4:5

Here is a masterpiece by Rubens, "Descent from the cross," 1612-14  (You can see it in Antwerp Belgium).

It often appears that death has won,  that evil triumphs, that darkness consumes the light that would lead us.   Notice at the bottom right a bowl that now holds the crown of thorns, the nails, and Pilates inscription leaning against it.  "Here is the king of the Jews."

For me Rubens invokes the mystery of the faith.  Jesus, ghastly white in death, yet there is a hint of the resurrection here, ever so small.

Hope is never extinguished as long as we hold onto Christ.

 

Marked for life!

Day 1:  Ash Wednesday.   Today Christians throughout the world will come to their places of worship and receive  the ashen cross on their foreheads.  Some of our Evangelical friends will think this is a silly superstition or some left over ritual that has no real meaning.  But the truth is it is one of the most powerful days in the life of the Christian; one which reminds us whose and who we are. You see most days we are free to live our faith with no one really knowing that we claim to follow Jesus of Nazareth.  The neighbor who we growl out because their dog wont stop barking; the clerk at the store who seems to be deliberately slow or incompetent; the employee whose worth in the marketplace is questionable at best; the homeless woman outside 7-1l: none of these on any other day will know that we are followers of the Christ.  But today.....each and everyone of these folks will see the mark of the crucified Lord on our brows. And I wonder, if we know we are so bold to carry his cross on our brow, will our behavior in the world be different?  Will we be more gracious?  Will we be more merciful than relentless?  Will we be more loving?   

Here at OSLC we'll have a worship at 7pm...please come...but that only gives us a few hours to wear the cross before we go to bed and begin a new day.   But here's the thing; we actually wear that cross each and every day whether we remember it or not.  And I wonder if folks can see it?

 Remember, "you have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked by the cross of Christ, forever!"  Amen

Lenten discipline

Last year I attempted to record a little video devotion for the 40 days of Lent.  While it was a good exercise and received well by folks; this year I am planning to be a bit more eclectic with my posts.   Expect some photography,  creative writing, works of art and who knows what else.    I hope you'll join my for the journey and add your comments to mine as we look to share the same waves of Jesus' grace and truth.   Look for the posts to begin in a little more than a week....Ash Wednesday.

The Second Advocate

This week the Gospel of John continues with John 14.15-21.  It is a continuation of Jesus' farewell discourse and the beginning of a serious reflection on the work of the Spirit.  I find the language here fascinating.  Jesus tells his disciples that he is going to ask the Father to send them another Advocate to be with them forever.   Jesus is the first Advocate that has been sent by God.  The formless God of the universe has become 'formed' in Jesus of Nazareth and now that the incarnation is about to come to an end, it is the incarnate Word who realizes that there is need for another.  This second Advocate--the Holy Spirit--will be that aspect of God that unlike the incarnated Word--Jesus--will be in the world and actually dwell in/among the disciples.  How do we understand the Holy Spirit?  For confirmation I will take a candle and lite it.  I will tell the kids that the flame is the light of Christ.  I then put a glass container over the flame and we watch it go out.  I then tell them that the oxygen in the air is like the Holy Spirit.  It is that which allows the light of Christ to continue to shine in the world.   I like this metaphor because Jesus uses a word that suggests that like the air we breath, the Holy Spirit will be both within and among us.  That seems to me to be an important aspect of what the Spirit does.  It certainly calls me to holiness and relationship with God; but it also is that which we mutually share and need for life.  That is, it is extremely personally and yet ultimately communal.  I like that.   How do you see the Spirit at work in your life?  

Joseph Mildrofer, Pentecost 1750's

The end of the Incarnation....

This Sunday we'll have the famous passage from John 14.1-14 where Jesus talks about there being many mansions--or places--for us and that we should not be afraid.   Thomas of course, taking Jesus literally blurts out, "We do not know where you are going, how can we know the way?"   This leads into an even deeper conversation where Philip asks to see the Father and Jesus tells him that whomever has seen Jesus has seen the Father.    But behind all of this conversation is the fact that the incarnation, the Word made flesh, is coming to an end.  I don't know if you ever thought about this or not, but when Jesus is resurrected he is changed, he is no longer simply flesh and blood, but is the first born of the dead and the one who now points to what our own resurrected life will be like.   So this means that the incarnation will lead to death--as will the life of all human beings.   But here Jesus is pointing us to a reality that death is not the end of the story.  The crucifixion will give way to the Resurrection and to the Ascension.   Incarnate life is good; but it is not the end---there is mystery to be found when we understand that we are more than what we have experienced in this world---and Jesus is more than what the disciples have seen.   This of course points us to what Christians call the Trinity.  The understanding that God was fully present in Jesus of Nazareth.  That Jesus is God with us.   That being said, while God can become incarnate, the incarnation cannot fully express the reality of God.  God as Father, Son and Holy Spirit is a mystery as wondrous as the promise of life everlasting.   So as Christians we live fully committed to this life--it is after all the only life we know--but we do so fully anticipating that it is not the end of the story, but only one part of that story, just as Jesus is only one aspect of the mystery of God.  

Here's some art that might help you reflect on this mystery of the Trinity.

Domenico Beccafumi, The Trinity 1530

El Greco, The Trinity 1577

Christ as the Good Shepherd

This Sunday is unofficially known as "Good Shepherd" Sunday.  Each year on the Fourth Sunday of Easter we get a reading from the 10th Chapter of John.  The image of Jesus as the good shepherd is one of the oldest known in the Christian church.  It was particularly useful because in a time of persecution a statue of a shepherd carrying a lamb or ram would not have raised suspicion.  It was a known pagan image as well (see the pagan idea of criophorus or the Ram Beaer).   And of course we can also connect the image of the Shepherd to the Old Testament as well, where often this was an image used for God and also for the kings and leaders who were called to care for God's flock.  It is probably no accident that David was out keeping the flock when Samuel came to look for the new king to be anointed.    Or reading for this Sunday makes the most sense when we see it as a continuation of John 9--the story of the man born blind.  This poor man, whom you would think would have been blessed beyond believe by having his sight restored is instead offered one hardship after another.  He's given a "Sabbath Violation" ticket by the authorities, his friends don't recognize him, his family distances themselves from him, and he is kicked out of the synagogue--accused of being a sinner!   In answer to this story, Jesus tells the three Good Shepherd vignettes in John 10.   He is the one who cares for the sheep (not the leaders of the day) and he is the one whose motivation is entirely at work on behalf of the sheep, not the institution or some inaccurate sense of who belongs and who doesn't.  He is the Good Shepherd who knows you by name!  You!  With all your complexities, doubts, insecurities, triumphs and joys.  He knows your name and you know his voice!  Listen for it!   

Below, a great brown pencil sketch by Murillo.  Look at the Child Christ walking firmly and purposely forward.  Even as a child he knows for that which he has been called.  The sheep over his shoulder keeping his eyes on the Christ, the sheep's body is relaxed and you get the impression that the child is truly carrying the entire weight of the animal.  Now look at the Child Christ.  He eyes are on the look out; but for who and for what?  Is he searching for those who would endanger the sheep in his care (John 9) or perhaps he is looking for his other sheep--us--and compelling us to allow him to carry us as well.   It's a great sketch from a brilliant artist.  Peace! pj

Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, the Christ Child as the Good Shepherd, 1680