Merry Christmas!

To my faithful followers. I wish you a very Merry Christmas and when the New Year comes may it be filled with goodness.

I leave you with my favorite Christmas Song and will see you next year.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uG88QX64wv8

The Weeks of Advent - Love (Conclusion)

I found this poem which speaks to what I have tried to put into words all week. Love is give and take. Love is an inseparable bind. Love knows no boundaries. Love is life-giving. 

This poem is written for a soldier who is facing death.

A Soldiers Dove

© Korry

as I lay on my back.
I look up into the night sky.
after repelling off the last attack.
I can feel you. I ask why.

I see your face in a distant star.
beaten, broken, and thrashed.
because my dove. you're so far.

wish I could hold your heart.
wish I was home and not here.
each new day I slowly fall apart.
because I'm so far away from my dear.

wanting, needing your love
I think about the past
I think about the night I first met my dove.
our hearts racing so fast.
how we couldn't help but talk for hours.
until we both fell asleep.

what brought us together?
we will probably never know.
it's you dove that holds me together.
even on this battle field you won't let go.

with my face in your hands.
please don't weep when I die.
promise me when you hear the bands.
you won't give up and cry.

this land was my enemy and my dove my sword.
without you they would have won along time ago.
last thoughts in my head my heart you adored.
the enemy and I went toe to toe.

now he stands over top me and blocks the light.
I scream, Run dove! all I can see is darkness.
as I call upon all my last might.
grabbing my last mag out of my harness.

he reaches for his gun.
points and pulls back the hammer.
and says now I have won.
squeezes out his last round.

he missed I'm not hit!
I fire my last shot.
the darkness fades. 
so long we had fought.
I apply first aids.

then set up and look around.
he's laying in a pool of blood.
I hear weeping from my back on the ground.
its my dove!
she took the bullet. she's dying.
why my love!?
I just break down and start crying. 

I take all my bandages off and put them on her!
but its just not good enough.
as she says "this isn't goodbye lover".

I'm thousands of miles away sleeping in my bed.
this is all in your dreams.
all of this is in your head.
when you wake up you will know what it all means.

I snap awake!
its 3:30 a.m.
there's a call I need to make.

suddenly I hear bells.
my phones ringing
I pick up my cell.
its my dove!
I answer and say............. "I love you"

Source: A Soldiers Dove, Long Distance Love Poem http://www.familyfriendpoems.com/poem/a-soldiers-dove#ixzz2FiIFiEyr 
www.FamilyFriendPoems.com 

The Weeks of Advent - Love (Continued)

Luke 1:39-55

I will do my best to describe what I think is the closest bond and strongest love known to creation; that of a mother with child. When I speak with my wife, my mother, and other women who have children or are with child about their child I always see a glow which I can only describe as a light from within. Try it, ask any mother about her children and you'll see this glow too. It surrounds them, envelops their very being.

I sometimes see a similar glow in husbands when they speak of their wives, but in all honesty I never witness a brighter glow than when a mother speaks of her child. The glow, however, can turn to an impenetrable shield when they feel their children to be in danger. As much as one should thoroughly enjoy being in the presence of a mother who is glowing, one should almost be afraid to be the focus of a woman who thinks they are endangering her child.

Therein lies the love I am talking about. Whether a mother is glowing with pride or impenetrable with protection one thing is very obvious to me; that mother is giving everything she has to and for her child. That, I think, is what Love is. If you are willing to put all of your personal "stuff" aside and give everything you have for the betterment of others, then you have achieved the love that can only be shared between a mother and her child.

Mary and Elizabeth take that love one step further, if that is possible. They both recognize that the love they feel towards the child they are carrying is only possible because of God. It's in this recognition they both share a special joy as well as bring hope to one another that the child Mary is carrying will finally bring peace to their people.

Love one another my friends. Love one another as much as you love yourself. And never, never forget to love your God.

The Weeks of Advent - Love (Continued)

Hebrew 10:5-10

As I listened to President Obama give a press conference this morning I was encouraged by one of the answers he gave. The question asked was (paraphrasing), "In the last four years of your presidency there have been other violent shootings take place around our country, where have you been until now?" President Obama simply reminded this reporter that he has been busy fighting back the worse recession since the depression, keeping the auto industry from falling apart, fighting two wars, and dealing with other pressing issues.

Then he said something that made me smile, because it's about time one of our country's leaders said it. "It's time we all take a step back and look at where we have been placing our priorities" (paraphrasing again).

So, I want to ask you, where are your priorities?

In today's passage, Paul does a pretty good job at determining what Jesus' priorities were. Jesus didn't come to remind everyone of their laws, rather he tried his best to remind those who would listen it's the laws which are separating us from our relationships. In fact, as Paul focuses on in the passage, the people to whom Jesus was speaking no longer showed joy in following the law.

Sometimes we do things because we feel as though those are the things which have to be done. We go through our daily routines because they are just that; routines. To the people of Jesus' time it might be possible that the routines of having to say, do, and live in a strict adherence to a set of rules were becoming far removed from what those rules were meant to represent.

I've been taking a serious look this week at where we, as a society, are focusing our lives. I can see that in many more instances now, as compared to 40 years ago, we seem to be going through our routines without recognizing the rewards of those events. We take our children from one activity to another and barely ask them how they're doing. We have video games, computers, televisions, personal music players, personal hand-held digital devices (aka cell phones), and so much more to keep us busy and away from being with one another.

To be with one another is the most important part of being human. Every being, every piece of creation longs to be with one another. Even a banana tree will not bear fruit unless it has another banana tree sharing it's root. It's time, then, for us to be with one another. This is, and always has been the hope of our God - that all of creation can find a way to live within and a part of that which is created.

The only way to do this is to love - Love yourself, Love one another, and Love your God.

The Weeks of Advent - Love (Continued)

Psalm 80:1-7

I am feeling a deep connection this week with the lectionary passages; especially as they lead towards the Sunday in which we celebrate the Love shown to us through Jesus Christ.

As the days distance themselves from last week Friday's shooting I am beginning to see the deep divisions I spoke of yesterday come to fruition. Nothing is making me feel sadder than to hear people actually say that the only solution to these types of tragedies is to put a gun in every hand. Can you just imagine what would happen if a room full of people had guns and one, just one of them felt threatened? There wouldn't be a person left alive.

The answer to violence is never more violence. Jesus reminds us that if we are stricken we should turn the other cheek. Jesus reminds us that it is the peacekeepers who will see the face of God. As Jesus looked into the eye of extreme injustice he reminded us that to show love, even until death, is really the only way towards peace.

The children at Sandy Hook were shot down because of the decisions of someone who may not have been able to make an intelligent decision. It would also seem he was able to get the guns from his mother, who was living in fear of her government. It is this fear, the fear of the unknown, that drives people to do the things they do. In order to stop things like this from happening we need to find a way for people to trust each other again.

Our Psalm today begs, yes begs for the one who will bring us peace and joy through love; that is the hope of all humanity, don't you think? It is in the love of your God you will find the peace you need to overcome your fears. It is in the love of your God you will find the joy you need to overcome your weaknesses. It is in the love of your God you will find the hope you seek to live in a world void of violence and filled with Love. It is in the Love of your God your lives will be restored to a place where neighbor takes care of neighbor.

On this day look for ways to love, not ways to spread fear.

The Weeks of Advent - Love

Micah 5:2-5a

As the Nation, and the World, begins to recover from the shock of the shootings in Newtown, CT the conversation about how to best prevent these things from happening again is beginning. We are sure to see the deep-ceded divisions revolved around the right to have a gun or not. The people who are defending our rights to carry a gun will be screaming about how the other side is trying to take away that right. While that's going on the people trying to limit the damage that can be done with the guns people own will be screaming about our right to live in a place that allows for a sensible feeling, and knowledge, of peace.

In the past these conversations revolved around our basic rights as human beings living in a free-world. That is true until now. This time there will be no escaping the fact that the types of guns and ammunition abilities used in this particular shooting found a way to harm the most innocent and loving of all humanity; children. Regardless of where those who will be filling our airwaves stand in the conversations revolving around our right to defend ourselves, and regardless of where you stand in that conversation, let us not forget that unless we stand together in love that conversation will get nowhere.

This week in Advent we are going to do our best to seek the love brought to us by God through Christ. In light of the recent events this may prove to be a more difficult task than we hope for, but together let's take this journey and try to find where that love resides.

In our passage today, Micah prophesies about the one who is coming that will bring peace to our world. In the hearts of Christians we believe this one to be Christ. What Christ brought with him was the understanding, and the teachings toward the understanding, that the way to peace is through love, and that love is the unconditional acceptance of all people.

Hope, Peace, Joy...Then Comes Love

I had originally not planned to post anything pertaining to yesterday's elementary school shooting in Newton, CT. My thought was that everyone would have formed an opinion and would have reached out for the words and thoughts needed to make sense of the whole thing in their own time. That was the plan, except that I saw a questioned asked, which I feel compelled to answer in the best way I can.

In this time of Advent, when we seek comfort in the coming of our Christ, how can we see hope, peace, or joy in any part of this horrific shooting?

My wife is a Kindergarten teacher. When it became clear through the news that this tragic event involved a classroom of 5-year olds my first thought was, "Why the children?" My second thought came to me immediately after, "My wife, she must be devastated."

I called her, and she hadn't heard the news. I told her I didn't want to be the one to give it to her, but I also knew she would find out as soon as I hung up anyway. When I told her that the kids involved were kindergartners I could honestly feel her heart break.

Later that afternoon, when she came home from school, she asked to watch the news and cuddled next to me on the couch. She was not only visibly sad but also "felt" empty, as though she was drained of all emotion. After watching a news update which did a very good job on summarizing the day's events she asked for a hug. After the hug she said she now had a better understanding of why it happened, and she could see that the people in that town were reaching out to one another in the love only true neighbors can show.

Hope had begun to settle in, peace was not far behind, and soon there would again be joy, all it took was a little love.

I define love as unconditional acceptance. It's when we can find a way to put our differences aside to be with each other. It's when we can see and be ourselves for the person we are. It's when we understand that there is a force greater than us who brings life into this world.

Love makes hope, peace, and joy possible - hope, peace, and joy make love possible. Let's start loving each other now.

The Weeks of Advent - Joy (Conclusion)

Sometimes other people can say it better than I ever could. Here's a few words from others.

We are shaped by our thoughts; we become what we think. When the mind is pure, joy follows like a shadow that never leaves. - Buddha

Love is a force more formidable than any other. It is invisible - it cannot be seen or measured, yet it is powerful enough to transform you in a moment, and offer you more joy than any material possession could. - - Barbara de Angelis

We need to give each other the space to grow, to be ourselves, to exercise our diversity. We need to give each other space so that we may both give and receive such beautiful things as ideas, openness, dignity, joy, healing, and inclusion. - Max de Pree

Joy is a net of love by which you can catch souls. - Mother Teresa

If my world were to cave in tomorrow, I would look back on all the pleasures, excitements and worthwhilenesses I have been lucky enough to have had. Not the sadness, not my miscarriages or my father leaving home, but the joy of everything else. It will have been enough. - Audrey Hepburn 

Find a place inside where there's joy, and the joy will burn out the pain. - Joseph Campbell 

Do something joyous this weekend!

The Weeks of Advent - Joy (Continued)

Luke 3:7-18

The first thing that came to mind after reading today's passage is, "That's good news?" Visions of being chopped down at the root and burning with the rest of the chaff in an unquenchable fire doesn't sound so good. Since our challenge for the week is to find a way towards peace through our readings, I re-read the passage to find that way, and don't you know, there it was.

The way towards peace is in John's response to those wishing to be baptized by him. Give unto others, don't be greedy, treat everyone fairly, and be happy with what you have. I especially like the last piece of advice.

One of the church's elders sat in our Youth Sunday School last week. Towards the end of the class he asked permission to begin a conversation about Christmas. The youth said it was cool and he asked them this question: "Why do you give gifts at Christmas?" The youth were dumbfounded, they honestly didn't know how to answer.

Then, from somewhere in the middle of the class a voice rang out, "I can't speak for everyone, but I give gifts because I feel like I have to." The proverbial can of worms had opened and a spirited conversation on the shortcomings of Christmas in a commercial world began. One of our youth actually said that if she could only give gifts to her immediate family that would be more than enough because to her those were the only people she wanted to show true appreciation to.

If Advent is the expectation of Christ's entrance into our lives, we then need to be open to all the ways he is coming. We also need to be aware of those who are preparing the path for our journey with Christ. Jesus had John the Baptizer. Who do you have? Our communities are filled with people waiting to show us little, and sometimes big, visions of Christ, we just need to have the open hearts and minds to let it happen.

Go out today and begin appreciating the things you have. My bet is that once you are satisfied with what you do have you will find a piece of peace you might have been looking for.

The Weeks of Advent - Joy (Continued)

Philippians 4:4-7

I really like the theme our readings are taking us through this week. First we were asked to remove all fear from our lives, which is more difficult than we admit. Next came the reminder that we should put our trust not only in our God, but in others as well, which probably proves more difficult than having no fear. Today we are being reminded that the more we worry the less peaceful we are.

Worry is a part of everyday life. There is no getting around it. So, in order to understand how we can take worry face-on, and find a way to get past it let's define worry. Worry is described as any action with one's self which causes a disturbance or interference with their own comfort or peace of mind. In other words you are responsible for the things which you allow to make your life uncomfortable and less peaceful.

Now that you know who's in control of the worrisome things in your life, maybe you can find a way to stop it, if not at least slow it down. I won't promise you it's an easy task, nor will I say this can be done overnight. I will say, though, that you and only you can accomplish this one.

Of course you'll have God's help too.As it says in our passage today, when you find a way to stop worrying and learn to let God help you with the things which do worry you, your life will find a peace which surpasses all understanding.

The Weeks of Advent - Joy (Continued)

Isaiah 12:2-6

This week is "Finals Week" for many of our high schools, colleges, and universities. It's a time filled with lots of stress due to getting projects and papers completed, all-night studies, improper eating habits, and general nervousness about taking exams.

Yesterday one of the students I work with came back from a one week break due to surgery. He came back to school just in time to take his finals. I asked him if he was worried about taking the tests, especially after taking a whole week off and not benefiting from the class reviews we had in his absence. I smiled and chuckled a little when he said, "No worry, I got this" I asked how he could be so calm, to which his reply was "I just have to trust I know what I need to know."

Trust. It's a tricky word, but one that is necessary to bring peace. I want all of you in a committed relationship to ponder this: Would you be able to sleep at night if you didn't have complete trust in your partner as he/she lay next to you in the dark?

A complete trust in people removes a lot of the fear that is associated with mistrust. As in the case of that student, he was completely at peace while taking the tests because he trusted not only in himself, but also that the teachers would not put anything on the test that was meant to "trick" him. What would happen if we put that same kind of trust in our God?

God wants us to know that we can put our trust in God, and to help make this point God sent us Jesus who lived a life in complete trust of what God's plans for him were. In fact, Jesus trusted God so much that when the time came for Jesus to give his life he knew God would be there on the other side.

I guess the question for us to ponder today is just how much trust do we have in ourselves, in each other, and in God?

The Weeks of Advent - Joy

Zephaniah 3:14-20

Today's passage approaches the definition of joy by describing it as the absence of fear. I did have to think about it for a moment as the stubborn in me kept insisting that a life without fear would be a life lived in peace. However, as I thought about it longer it came to me that a peaceful life can still have moments of being afraid of something, but to truly be emptied of fear, well that's rather joyous.

In our youth group yesterday we spoke about one of my biggest heroes, Nick Vujicic. Nick is my hero for many reasons, but mainly it's because of his joy-filled life I have to say I look to his life as an example for how to live mine.

Nick was born with no limbs; no arms and no legs. At the age of 8, after seriously contemplating suicide, he came to the realization that he was what he was, and that is who he is. He made the decision that day to never let his disability get in the way of his abilities. If you took a look at his life today you would see a man with no limbs do everything from brush his own teeth to play soccer. If you get the chance look him up.

In one of his interviews they show him standing on a diving board which stood maybe 3 or 4 feet above the water. While at the edge of the board he makes jokes like, "I'm the one going out on a limb here." He then get's ready to jump, saying to the camera that to do what he is about to do either means he has no fear of what was coming, or is completely an idiot. Nick jumps, doing a back flip into the water. He raises his body above the waterline, shakes the water from his hair, and with a deeply heartfelt voice lets out the most joyous "WHOOO!" one has ever heard.

Indeed, a life without fear can be a life filled with joy.

The Weeks of Advent - Peace (Conclusion)

Luke 3:1-6

Here we are at the end of week two of our four-week series and I don't know about you but time sure seems to be going along at a quick pace. With all the busy-ness we're involved in we barely find time for ourselves, let alone time for and with our God. I always find it refreshing to sit at my computer on most mornings to connect with people on social media, read the lectionary passage for the day, and let my fingertips touch the letters on this keyboard to write what I am thinking.

Believe it or not I do all those things to prepare my day, not anyone else's. I would be less than honest to say I am always surprised when others comment on my social media outlets that they like my posts or enjoyed reading them, so for the dozen or so of you who do so I want to say thank you for taking fifteen minutes out of your day to spend with me and my thoughts.

I write this today because it seems to me that John, the son of Zechariah whom we mentioned the other day, now seems ready to fulfill what would be his purpose in life; to prepare the people for what was coming. Not much is told to us about the life of John "the Baptizer", but my guess is he must have felt a certain peace in knowing that he was doing exactly what he was born to do, regardless of what others thought or said about him.

I wish more of us could feel that way. How much better would your life be if you could honestly say that you were doing what your life's work was meant to be? How much more peaceful would you feel if you lived a life according to what you feel led to live, regardless of what others said or thought about it?

John prepared the way for the coming of Christ by living in a way he thought to be right for him to live; to prepare others for the coming of Jesus. Let's try our best to do the same.

The Weeks of Advent - Peace (Continued)

Philippians 1:3-11

Last night I had somewhat of an unplanned, albeit a needed break; somewhat. We usually have two bible studies back to back for our Youth and Young Adults between 7 and 10 pm. With the ending of the semester upon us, however, they decided their time would be better spent studying for finals and finishing projects and papers. Good decision on their part.

As a result I found myself with an extra hour or so to do other things and I used that time to read. It's honestly been a while since I read just because I wanted to. And with all the things I had in my office at work to read - magazines, books on teenage spirituality, news articles, and even our newly revised church by-laws - I chose to read my bible.

It was honestly nice to be able to read the bible without having to dissect it for any particular reason. As I read the beginning of the story of Jesus' life as told by Luke I found myself becoming enveloped by the words put on this paper. The most difficult part was pretending to not know the story as I read it; not easy.

As I read I began to see that from the beginning Luke is telling a story filled with contrasts between knowledge and action. As I read on, and as I tried harder to pretend I didn't know the story, I found myself realizing the love God showed through the life of Christ Jesus. As Paul put it, my love flourished in the "knowledge and full insight" of God's love.

I can say that in the hour or so I read, my relationship with God through Christ grew stronger, and with that growth came a certain peace I haven't felt in a long time. I was alone, I was at rest, and I was doing something for me. In the process I was able to sit with God and enjoy God's company.

That's what I call peace.

The Weeks of Advent - Peace (Continued)

Luke 1:68-79

This is another one of my favorite stories. I can't help but imagine Zechariah's words and actions as he spoke these words. Keep in mind that he had been stricken mute for almost a year and how frustrating that must have been for him, being a priest of his hometown temple. The circumstances of his being stricken mute, his disbelief of the word of God's messenger, would have most certainly added to his frustrations as he waited as patiently as he could for the day when he would be able to speak again arrived.

That day arrives in today's passage. I can always imagine Zechariah's voice as he begins to speak. If you've ever been quiet for a long period of time you would notice your voice takes a while to warm up and I have no doubt that being silent for as long as he was would have had Zechariah speaking softly at first, doing the best he can to form words through a cracked voice, then finally being able to speak loudly as he proclaimed his new son, John, to be the newest prophet of God.

I want to take a step back, however, and think about what that first moment was like when Zechariah regained his speech.

I sat with a dear friend recently as he told me about things that have been on his mind and in his heart for a few years. I don't want to say more except that this friend felt an extremely heavy burden lift as he opened himself enough to begin emptying his soul of the darkness he was carrying around. He had muted some things which needed a voice. When he was able to talk about these things he began to speak in a soft, cracked voice. Before too long his voice began to strengthen, as did he.

Later in the conversation I asked him how difficult it was for him to open up about those things and he said it was very hard. He added that once it started to come out, though, he felt a peace he hasn't felt in a long time.

What is it that you are carrying in you that needs to be said? Our voice needs to be heard. Your God waits for you to open up and Christ lives in this world so you have someone to talk to. Zechariah found his peace after finding his voice as did my friend. Perhaps you will find the same.

The Weeks of Advent - Peace (Continued)

Malachi 3:1-4

Do you remember the good old days? What do those memories bring?

For me the "good old days" bring back memories of families sitting together and enjoying a holiday meal. The holiday may be Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Eve, a birthday, anniversary, or even a celebration of being in the school's winter play (even if I was only the narrator).

These memories bring back times of being with friends, playing outdoors, running around and laughing. The good old days didn't include worrisome responsibilities beyond getting my homework done, nor did it involve much of anything beyond respecting my elders.

Then I grew up. I still had fun, I still played, but there seemed to be heavier consequences for my decisions. Adulthood took over, followed by family person. Life is now filled with a daily routine from which I get home too tired to enjoy that which I've worked so hard to accomplish.

And yet, if I take the time to look around me I'll see a new generation enjoying their "good old days" and that thought, for some reason, brings me peace. The things I enjoyed as a child were possible because of what those who came before me had done. What I am doing now is paving the way for those who are yet to come. The only question now is if I'm doing enough.

Malachi reminds us that when the "promised one" comes he will bring with him a purifying force. Jesus came and began a new age, showing us that the way to peace is unconditional acceptance. Maybe my thoughts went to the days of my childhood because it is there that I felt the most accepted by everyone around me.

The promise of peace can only be fulfilled when we begin making all our days "the good old days".

The Weeks of Advent - Peace

Baruch 5:1-9

Today's passage comes from the Apocryphal Deuterocanonical books of the bible (ho, I sound smart yeah...lol) and I'm not sure if you all have it, so I made a link you can follow in order to be able to read the passage.

http://bible.oremus.org/?ql=221552729 (you may have to cut and paste this into your address bar)

I have to say that on my first reading of these verses I found myself feeling proud to be one of God's people. Not proud as in, "hey, look at me", but proud as in a child who's parent just won the Parent of The Year Award. I saw myself standing tall, my shoulders back and chin up, wearing my best clothes, holding the hand of my parent and saying, "yup I belong to this family".

I then went back in time to a place where our family used to always be together; Christmas. No matter how busy my father was, or how many jobs my mom had we somehow always found a way to be together on Christmas day. I'm not naive enough to believe this is the way it is for all people, but as for me this is a memory I can carry as long as I have a memory.

I reread the passage and on taking a closer look at it I noticed there was not a mention of war, battle, or conflict of any kind. The reading simply says that one day we will all be able to stand together as one people, as one family, in the beauty of the world which God has given us. According to our reading that day will be called the day of Righteous Peace, Godly Glory.

Oh for that day to come.

The Weeks of Advent - Hope (conclusion)

Hope is the expectation that things will get better.

Hope is the person, or the people, we look to for encouragement.

Hope is the power to not give up, regardless of the situation.

Hope is the realization we are never alone, even when we feel lonely.

Hope is placing the fate of our lives into the hands of others and having the trust to do so.

Hope is working together for the betterment of all.

Hope is finding a way to see the ever-present goodness around us.

Hope is the knowledge that we have a God who loves us, no matter what we have done or who we are.

Hope is.

The Weeks of Advent - Hope (continued)

Luke 21:25-36

When things seem to be at their worst, when it looks like there is no escape from all that is wrong in your world, look for a sign that things can, and will, be better. That is the message Jesus gives to his followers after telling them that the day is coming when everything they know and hold dear to their hearts will be gone.

Today's passage follows Jesus' discourse on the destruction of the temple and the city of Jerusalem and that persecution is coming to any who claim to be his friend. Bad things are inevitable, he says, and everything you believe in is going away and what is left will be nothing short of torment. But wait, he continues, I'm also here to remind you that you should never give up.

If we keep our eyes, ears, hearts, and minds open we will see the "coming of summer in the fig leaves" (paraphrased). If we allow ourselves to, we will understand that there is always hope and that hope comes to us in the promise of Jesus to always be at our side, holding our hand, giving us a hug, and walking with us on our journey, no matter how dire that journey seems to be.

Do you see the fig leaves and is your summer coming? Keep watch, as Jesus says, and I'm sure you'll see hope.

The Weeks of Advent - Hope (continued)

1 Thessalonians 3:9-13

Today's passage had me asking, "Who is the "you" Paul was talking to?" I was so intrigued as to what the answer was I actually read the entire chapter of 1 Thessalonians 3 to get a better idea. I was interested in the answer because it became obvious, in this week of focusing on hope, that Paul had put immense hope in whoever this person was.

This led me to ask myself, "Who do I put my hope in?" Who is it that I look towards in making my expectations of better things come true? The more I consider this question, the more I realize it isn't one single person. In fact the answer is a community so large that it would take several pages to list them here.

My life is a culmination of everything, and everyone, that has come into it. Since my history is 50 years and a few months old I have a lot. If I sit and think even more about it I am also a part of all of those things and people too. You see how this line of thinking can begin to get unwound quickly.

Paul wrote to the Thessalonians that it was their church that was to be praised and in which lay the hope of abounding love for one another and for all. To Paul, however, the church was not a building where people met every Sunday to talk with others, go to Bible study, meet in committees, and mingle in coffee hours. To Paul, the church was everyone and everything.

This brings my thinking to one conclusion: Our hope cannot be put into a box and handed out to those we think have a purpose in making our hope come true, our hope is meant to be spread to all people and all things so that all of creation can share in it.

What a concept, don't you think?

The Weeks of Advent - Hope (continued)

Jeremiah 33: 14-16

Hope is sometimes defined as the expectation of better things. There is hope in the person who has been unemployed for months and is going into a job interview. There is hope in a homeless family who has applied for a housing transitional program. There is hope in a student as they wait for their test grades. Hope is the one thing that keeps us going when things seem to be at their worst.

Jeremiah lived in a time of political upheaval with the Hebrew people being divided into two nations. There seemed to also be a class division between the rich and the poor with nobody, or very few, living in the middle class. Does any of this sound familiar?

In today's passage Jeremiah speaks on God's behalf in saying that soon the people will one day live in unity and peace. With those words Jeremiah brings hope to the most oppressed of God's people.

Today, as you go through your day, listen to how God is bringing hope to your life. If you open your hearts and minds enough you just might see that no matter how bad things seem, somewhere in the "darkness" is a spark of light. Remember, hope isn't the fulfillment of better things, hope is the expectation of better things.

Out there, somewhere, there is a family member, friend, or total stranger with a word, a hug, or a smile that will bring about renewed expectation. All you need to do is go through your day with your head held up high so you can see it.

The Weeks of Advent - Hope

Psalm 25:1-10

This year, as we look at the weeks of Advent which are coming, we will focus on 4 themes; Hope, Peace, Joy, and Love. This Sunday is the first day of Advent, the beginning of a new year within the Christian Calendar. It also begins the 4-week period in which we look forward to the celebration of Christ's birth into the world. The hope is that in some way we'll make the connections between what the people in Jesus' time were looking for in a "savior" and what it is we are looking for.

We begin with Hope. In today's Psalm we can see what that hope looked like for the earliest people of God. They looked for a God who would not judge them on their past. The people of God pledged their undying trust in God and in return hoped for a God who would forgive them their sins and transgressions.

The earliest people of God would ask for guidance as they did their best to learn how it was God wanted them to live. It was in these pledges they found their hope. Hope, to the earliest people of God, was being accepted as the people they were, with the knowledge that they weren't perfect.

It's also in the pledges made by these people that they would promise to do better, to make their lives better as well as the lives of those around them. It was the hope of these people that life would bring them the promises of God; a life filled with abundance of peace, joy, and love.

Today, if you are able, ask yourself what it is you hope for and what it is you are willing to pledge to help this hope become fulfilled.

From A - Z, or Zed, or O

Revelation 1:4b-8

In a recent lecture on the book of John the speaker helped us to better understand the Greek language. He did his best and I have to be honest to say that unless I refer to my notes I can't recall much about what was said. There is one thing, though, that stuck with me. I want to ask forgiveness if I get the intended message wrong, but again, I'm not reviewing my notes.

Let me begin with the understanding of the English, or Euro, alphabet. When used to measure time we see it as a place to start and finish. In other words A-Z means from beginning to end. It's a journey that may have checkpoints in between, but is meant to have an end sooner or later.

In the Greek alphabet, when used as time, Alpha to Omega is meant to be all inclusive; beginning, end, and all points in-between, then beginning all over again. The middle alphabets aren't merely checkpoints but is, and always will be, part of the journey.

Today's passage fits in well with the week's theme of remembering what we are thankful for in our lives as well as what we want to take with us into the new Christian year. It purposely calls all people to be witness of the coming of Jesus into the Kingdom he made. In the theology of John, one people united, true witnesses to God.

We don't really know who wrote Revelation, and I'm sorry to have opened that can of worms, but if we get past the argument of who wrote it and look at the message of this great book we'll see that it calls for unity and unconditional acceptance. It also calls for us to be vigilant in how we live our lives in Christ's name.

In this passage, at least, we're asked to gather as one people to be witness to the coming of Christ into the world, and to recall how his life is a culmination of everything from before time began and into a time not yet known.

Wrap your selves around that for a while.

Words To Be Remembered By

2 Samuel 23:1-7

Yesterday I mentioned that we were in a double celebration week, of sorts. With Thanksgiving in the States right around the corner I spoke about promises we make in being thankful for things we have. Today I want to speak about the other "celebration"; the last Sunday of the Christian year.

For those who don't know, the Christian Calendar begins new on Advent (the fourth Sunday before Christmas) which falls on December 2 this year. In reflection of new things coming, I also want to think of old things past. Well, not really that old, just this past year.

It's been a challenging year for me with 3 jobs (until recently, I left one about a month or so ago) and trying to finish my graduate work. I have at many times been easily irritated and a little short in patience and have taken out my frustrations on people who least deserve it. Add to this a daily calendar filled with so much things I often missed deadlines or forgot them all together.

Chaos for a person with self-diagnosed OCD.

So, as I honestly look back at how my Christian year has gone I will have to say that it's been the most perfect year for me to completely understand how those around me help to keep God alive in everything I do. Last week in Sunday school we talked about what the one thing was that our youth found difficult in their lives right now. One of them said that she struggled with how to put God first in everything she did, living with a checklist, of sorts, having to be sure that God was taken care of before everything else.

She recently came to the realization that she doesn't need to necessarily put God first, as in a checklist, because God is already in everything. That realization brought a sense of freedom to her soul and allowed her to free up her life so that she can now concentrate on the new chapters in her life.

Wonderful words, spoken by an amazing young woman. In her reflection of what this past year has been like for her, and in building her relationship with God, those around her, and herself she has seen that the path she is on will be just fine.

Thank you, God, for moments like that.

What Promises Have You Made

Psalm 138:1-18

Two things are happening this week. The first one is the celebration of Thanksgiving in the United States. The second is that this coming Sunday will be the last one of the current Christian Calendar year. Both events are reason for us to reflect, albeit on different things.

Thanksgiving brings with it a certain feeling to give of ourselves to help others. We look for opportunities to give of ourselves, maybe find an organization that serves lunch to the needy. We take an honest look at what we have and are grateful for it; no matter how much of "it" we have. When the actual day of Thanksgiving comes we gather with family, friends, neighbors, and (sometimes) total strangers to share a meal, or two, or three. The day is filled with fun and fellowship; each person recalling times that were better, and sharing times that might not be good.

It's just that kind of Thanksgiving the Psalmist shares with us today. We're blessed by the writer to be given an opportunity to recall all of the promises made between King David and God. Everything from David's promise to not live in a house until one is built for God to God's promise to make David the greatest king Israel has ever known is given to us in this Psalm. A brief knowledge of the history of the Hebrew people as told in the Old Testament will show us how each one of these promises were fulfilled in a very faithful way.

Such promises really make me stop to wonder about those I've made to God, or anyone for that matter, and if I've been faithful enough to fulfill each one. I can honestly say that not every promise I've made I've kept. As I sit here, though, I can honestly say that when I've made a promise I've tried my best to keep it, and maybe that's what's really important.

As the days move towards Thanksgiving in the States, I want to ask each one of you to think about the promises you've made and how you've tried, or not, to fulfill these promises. You might just discover a new thing to be thankful for.

Oooo, Big Rocks

Mark 13:1-8

Nothing lasts forever.

I just wanted to get that out of the way before I begin.

As much as there are some things we would like to last forever, I apologize for having to be the one to let you know, it isn't going to happen. This doesn't mean we should just stop hoping because there's no chance. All I'm saying is things won't last forever.

Well, almost nothing. There's always an exception to the rule.

As Jesus comes out of the temple, where they had just witnessed the widow giving everything she had, his followers marvel over the beauty of that temple. "What big stones, the buildings are so large." Jesus, in my opinion, sees how his students just aren't getting the message and decides to take a different tack - shock and awe.

"Yeah, those are beautiful rocks, but one day it will all be rubble and dust. In fact, one day none of this is going to be here."

Whoa! Imagine if someone told you that the things which symbolize the good things in this world for you were someday not going to exist. What would be your reaction? Let's be honest here, just how long will the things which give you comfort in your status in life last?

I really don't like ending the week on this note, but I think we need to take a step back this weekend (which is the weekend before Thanksgiving, by the way) and take a look at what we consider to be defining our lives. When we've identified those things my hope is that we'll understand what Jesus meant when he said, "This is but the beginning of birthpangs."

Over And Over And Over And...

Hebrews 10:11-25

I saw a post on Facebook the other day which read: If the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and not getting results I've decided that to keep my sanity I'm going to stop cleaning the house.I got a chuckle from that post, and obviously it sunk a little deeper than most other posts if I can recall it. Maybe it had a lasting an effect on me because it rang true; maybe too true.

How often do we try to accomplish something thinking we can do it the same way we always have. If I want to lose weight I'll go on a diet and when my weight goal is met I'll be okay. I need to get in shape so I'll start running, this afternoon. I need a raise this year so I'm going to start working extra hard and put in more hours. I need a partner in life so I'll go find one at the gym.

I've been to these places and can tell you I'm still out of shape, overweight, and haven't had a raise in years. Maybe, just maybe, I'm not making the necessary changes in a more concrete way. That's it, I just need to try harder.

Perhaps these things aren't working out because I haven't fully understood why I should make these changes. Yes, making these changes would help me live a healthier life, but is that reason enough. Why would my living a healthier life even matter?

I made a promise to people around me that I would walk with them through the bad times in their lives and share with them in the good times. In order to do this I need to be as healthy as I possibly can be. I made a promise to God that I will do my best to build God's kingdom. I have to remain healthy to do that as well.

Please don't get me wrong, I'm healthy. I'm nowhere near being sick or close to being unavailable to those around me. Except for the hassle of getting over a small flu I'm just fine. The point I'm trying to make is that if we keep doing things for the same reasons and in the same way we're going to get the same results. The point I'm trying to make is if we expect things to be better we need to find ways for them to be better.

Maybe this illustration will help. In Ohio, where there was a true political battle for the presidency of the United States, The Democratic candidate won by a margin of 2%. Not much, I know. When we take a look into the numbers, however, we see that the Democrat won as a result of a majority of the African-Americans, Asian-Americans, Young People, and Women voting for him. In fact, the women voted for the democrat by a margin of 12% in Ohio and 18% overall nationally. So what do you think was the first piece of legislation the Ohio State House passes; a law which cuts funding to Planned Parenthood which overwhelmingly assists women in their healthcare needs especially as it pertains to reproduction.

If we continue to do the same things in the same ways for the same reasons we will continue to get the same results. We need to come together as one people, somehow, and learn to listen, communicate, and give of ourselves for the betterment of others.

Table Of Contents

Daniel 12:1-3

Today's passage is one of those that scared me as I grew up. As children we were warned, a lot, that if our name wasn't in the "Book" then we were going to hell (that was a difficult word to type). We were told that things like watching movies, dancing with people of the opposite sex, "bad" thoughts, or breaking any of God's commandments would ensure our name wouldn't be in the book.

What disturbed me is that we were never told how to be sure our names made it into the book. One would think that if the goal was to be sure our names were written in this book we would be told how to get in. Maybe we weren't ready for the truth just yet.

Well, as it turns out the truth is much simpler to understand and follow than the "not-to-do" list. In fact, the answer for the question on how to be in the book was right under our noses all the time. All we need to do is lead others to righteousness.

What does that mean?

The Hawaiians have a word I know I've talked about before - pono. It means to be in tune with everything and everyone around you. It means that there are no disturbances within our selves that are keeping us from our relationships with ourselves, those around us, creation, and our Creator. To get our names into this book, then, would be to live your life in such a way as to bring others to this place; a place where all is in tune with everything around it.

Okay, maybe the don't-do-it list is easier, but think about it, that list only focuses on how you will make it into the book. I don't think God's intent is for us to focus on ourselves. Do you?

The Fullness of Joy

Psalm 16

Yesterday I came to the conclusion that I have been more short tempered and less willing to compromise than I usually am. I've also become a lot more cynical than usual. I don't know the reasons why, maybe it's the wanting to get through my studies on time, maybe it's having multiple jobs and wanting to finish my studies on time. Maybe it's just old age. Whatever the reasons are I have to stop being this way. I may end up hurting someone who has nothing to do with my mood.

There is one thing I've noticed, though; I'm putting my trust in other things more than I'm putting trust in my God. I'm depending on what others can or will do for me instead of focusing on what I can do for myself with the help of my God. You would think that by now I would have learned.

I was going to take a break from all things today - no studies, no email, no blog, nothing. As I sat on the couch searching for something to watch on TV, I became restless and could hear my computer calling to me. The moment I opened it, started it, and went to the pages I usually go to I felt a sort of peace come over me.

Of course having my PC open will always lead me to the lectionary readings for the day. After reading today's Psalm I know why I felt a certain kind of peace. God reminded me that I need God as much as I need everyone else and as much as I need myself. In retrospect those around me weren't doing or saying anything more or less than who or what they are. It was my interpretation of what was going on that was muddled.

Yesterday in our Youth class we talked about a young man who had to get a quadruple limb amputation due to a bomb going off while he was serving in Afghanistan. We saw how he pulled on the strength of those around him to go from hospital bed to learning how to run in 5 months. The observation was made that our lives are filled with these people, people who want nothing more than for us to succeed and are willing to give it everything they have to do so.

My life is filled with these people, and with this new-found realization I will go forward in the knowledge I am loved by me, others, and my God. It's good to be reminded of that fact - that through the love that surrounds us we can find everlasting joy.

It's The Season

I know, I know...Not Yet!

Every year Christmas seems to be coming earlier and earlier. We all know that big box stores had Christmas trees for sale beginning September. Here it is mid-November and one can't go anywhere without being reminded Christmas is here.

Yesterday, as I sat with a few kids after school, one of the teachers decided to put up Christmas decorations, nothing much - a few blue-ball ornaments, silver stars, red garland, and window stickers. A few of the kids began helping by climbing on tables, cutting string and tape, and making suggestions as to where and how many ornaments should be put up.

As the afternoon went on a few more kids walked in and before we knew it there were 8 or 10 kids helping put up decorations, each of them smiling, laughing and having fun in general. Those who weren't helping put up decorations watched, joked, sang make shift Christmas songs, and in their own way began to enjoy what was going on. Nobody complained that it was "too early", or to "let Thanksgiving happen first".

It was a good feel in that room.

After work I went to look for autumn leaves at a local craft store. As I walked in it was extremely obvious that finding anything "autumn" was going to be difficult as everywhere it was already Christmas and winter. But there, in the corner, was a Christmas tree decorated with autumn leaves. Having found what I had been looking for, for almost a month I might add, I relaxed a bit and allowed my other senses to open up. Slowly, but surely, the sounds of Christmas songs began filling the store.

In that moment I actually overheard another customer say to the clerk, "Why is it that stores are starting with their Christmas decorations and sales earlier and earlier every year?" To which the clerk replied, "Wouldn't it be great if Christmas could be decorated and celebrated all year round."

Indeed.

How vs. Why

Mark 12:38-24

Sometimes there are no words that can explain things better than a picture or video. So I'm going to show you a video. But, first let me set it up for you.

A few weeks ago our church began our Stewardship Drive. For those of you not familiar with what that is it's when churches ask for donations of time, talent, and treasure (aka money) to help with the work of the church. Like many churches across the nation ours does as much good work for our community with whatever funds we have to do that work.

This year our Youth and Young Adults were asked to perform a skit to kick off the stewardship campaign. As is the nature of our young people they did a wonderful job at getting the message across that their church needed help. The skit we did was a modernization, of sorts, of today's passage.

I invite you now to watch the video and decide for yourself which is more important; how or why?

Don't Deal With It

Hebrews 9:24-28

I really enjoy listening to the morning national news each day, especially while trying to do my devotionals. It brings a different perspective, sometimes, to what the passage for the day is saying. Let's take today for example.

The day after a rather exciting national election (at least I thought it was exciting) the pundits are talking about what's going to happen now; as if they knew. Of course they have many experts in the many areas in which they want to make their predictions so that it sounds like they really know what they're talking about. The one thing the pundits are commenting and guessing about today; unity in American politics. All we need now is someone who can make it all come true.

This is the same predicament the author of Hebrews was facing. A church that was divided, people coming in and saying the new laws are out of touch with the old laws, and others teaching new ways that are better than all other ways. What they needed was one person to bring everyone together.

Today we live in communities that seem to be more divided than ever. I say "seem" because I don't believe it. Yes, I see division. Yes, I witness injustices. Yes, I know of fellow humans who go through struggles with so many things. But I also see people who care deeply about them. It's with the help of these people I see the hurt and pain and division erode.

Today's passage helps to remind me that the waiting for a savior is over; that savior is already here and lives within each of us. We have the power to be the Christ for those around us and to help heal our world one person, one community, one city, one state, one nation, one world at a time.

Look around, my friends, someone needs you.

One Nation, Under Love, Indivisible....

1 Kings 17:8-16

Today's passage is one of those I've read many times and because of that I tend to not pay attention to little details or forget to try and put it into the context of where my life is now. The focus has always been on how the widow does what the prophet asks her and as a result of this she is rewarded with enough of what she needs for her and her son by God. The message has always been do what God asks you and you will be rewarded. Today, as I read this story anew I see a different truth.

The widow doesn't just do what God asks, she puts aside her self preservation to help another in his time of need. Today, in the States, we have an opportunity to do the same. As I'm sure you all know today is Election Day in the United States of America and it is today that we, as Americans, are asked to put aside our differences, to stop thinking about what's best for me as an individual, and to do what we can to ensure that all people who live in our Nation are given the equal chances of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

I will never presume to tell one how to vote or what they should believe in. It's that thinking and the actions of those thoughts that have brought us to the place of division among ourselves as a people we live in today. It's time to simply do as the widow in today's passage did; put aside our personal self-preservation and reach out to help others.

Regardless of today's results we need to continue to live in this Nation.  We'll only be able to do so in a peaceful way if we press the importance of living as one people united in one thought; unconditional acceptance of one another and justice for those who cannot do things for themselves.

Set Free

Psalm 146

Wow. There are days when I have absolutely nothing to say. Today is one of those days. It might be that my mind is distracted by other thoughts. It might be that my heart is still and not getting touched or moved by anything. It might be that my soul is unsettled, worried about what may be happening in our nation's near future.

Or it might not be.

I honestly, really, truly feel at ease. My heart, soul, and mind feel, what is the word I want, ummm, peaceful. I don't understand how. I mean there has been nothing but negative political ads on the TV this morning. People are talking about how our country and its people are divided. Yet, through all that cynicism I feel peaceful.

I think it might be that I feel good about me. I am the best person I can be and I know I am not this way because of anything I have done by myself. Family, friends, acquaintances, and bystanders have all helped place me where I stand in this moment; in complete acceptance of me.

I didn't do this with only the help of those around me, my love of my self has come with the long, difficult work of my God. I say difficult because for many years I refused to listen to the voice of my God. But you know, today, as I sit here with nothing to say I realize I'm not the one speaking anyway. The things I share with you each and every day come from others around me and God. I'm just the voice that gives those things life.

I don't know how to explain where I am in this moment. Maybe there is no explanation. The one thing I will say, though, is I feel set free from things that might have held me back from this realization. This is a good place for me to be, My prayer now will be that I can be a part of other's lives in their journey to find this same peace.

I guess there was something to say after all.

Hold On, It's Going To Get ________ (Fill In The Blank)

This has been an amazing week. There has been a gamut of events running rampant throughout our communities. These events range from the interpersonal to the continental and in one way or another affect all of the world.

If there's one thing we can count on, though, it's that the altering events of this past week are not over. Nor are they new. Our world has had to deal with these things since the beginning of time. War, death, destruction, and darkness has always tried to find a way to take over our lives.

Just as it seems darkest, though, a glimmer of light appears. A small flame, flickering in the distance, its light a faint yellow as it shines for anyone to go towards it. Then the flame is taken up by someone, usually one who is not expected to be a flame-carrier, and as she/he walks about, other fires are lit as people in the darkness decide they need to help carry the flame. These new flame-carriers begin to walk around, lighting more fires, bringing more light into the darkness until the light shines so bright that nothing is left unseen. Nothing.

What we have, then, is a place where because of one's decision to carry the flame, and another's decision to share the light we find hope, peace, joy, and love. We find these things because when the light shines that bright everything that tries to hide the light is exposed for what it truly is and can no longer take hold of our selves, or those around us.

So, make the decision to be a flame carrier and fill in the blank.

Raising The Dead In Us

John 11:32-44

I really enjoy how the lectionary can be laser focused sometimes. This week's message could not have been clearer to me. Adding to our different passages the events surrounding this week and we can begin to see how God works in our lives.

This past week there have been disasters, both natural and personal, all around us. Sure, we're focused on the ones closer to home, but a glance at what's happening around the world will show that others go through life-changing events all the time. What I find amazing is that no matter how bad these events affect lives, somehow, for some reason people never give up. Never.

I can't tell you why. That might be a question better answered by a sociologist or anthropologist, all I know is people never give up. Sure, they stop for a while and sure the recovery from certain events take longer to recover from. Yet, as time goes forward so does the healing.

We heal in different ways, but I can say with certainty we never heal alone. When our lives seem at their lowest, when it feels like the pain is too much to bear we somehow take a look around us and realize that we are not alone. Sitting beside us is a close friend or family member who is sharing in the pain with us, someone who is crying with us.

It's at that moment we realize, to offer a paraphrase from today's passage, that someone loves us. It's with this love our soul begins to repair and we start to live again.

Maybe that's why we never give up.

No More Pain

Revelations 21:1-6a

Yesterday one of the students I work with at school shared that her brother had died because of a workplace accident the day before. I asked her why she was in school and she answered that she didn't know where else to go or what else to do. She just wanted to do what she would have normally done.

I admire her courage. She wanted to be in a place, physically and emotionally, that felt comfortable to her. It may have been a good decision because she was able to share in the love and care of everyone around her. Her friends, teachers, and varied random people all came to her to spend a little time with her. 

By the end of the day she was feeling a little stronger, able to at least hold her head up and smile; a little. Time will heal the pain she is feeling, and time will take as long, or as short, as it needs to heal. When she gets to the other side of this point in her life she will be able to look back and know she was loved without conditions and without judgment. That's what I think the "new heaven and earth" our passage mentions will look like.

Verse 4a put's the description of this new world in perspective; "he will wipe every tear from their eyes." God comforts us through the people around us. It's when we forget to remain connected to those around us that sometimes makes the journey through that which ails us more difficult. 

Whatever your pain, whatever your trials, wherever you find yourself on the journey of life please know you have people who care and a God that loves without end. Hold on to the belief that one day that pain will be gone.

Stop Hiding

Isaiah 25:5-9

As we all, or mostly all, know a massive storm hit the east coast of the United States yesterday. This storm is said to have spread its effects almost 1000 miles across. I've heard there is damage in all areas between Maine and Virginia and into Ohio. Of course, one can't believe everything they read on the internet, but I'm just saying.

Being in Hawaii we get to watch what would be the overnight news on the east coast before we get to bed, and so my wife and I did. We watched as night-vision cameras showed eerie shadows cast in an eerier green backgrounds. We saw the empty streets of New York City lit only by the lights from news organization trucks. We watched as picture after picture taken between midnight and 3 in the morning showed what was obviously going to be days of what they're calling "restoration" efforts.

Suddenly it was 10 pm in Hawaii, and 4 am on the east coast. I had began to fall asleep when I heard a voice other than the woman who was reporting from her news desk for the last 3 hours. This other voice was talking about how their state brought in electrical workers and phone company crews and various other non-safety first responders from other states to help with the task of putting their towns and cities back together.

I went to bed thinking everything is going to be ok. As I sit at the table this morning, listening to more stories of people beginning to come together to help in whatever way they can, I begin thinking definitely that everything will be better than just ok. It's as though those in the storm's path know this isn't about themselves  it's about those around them.

As our passage for today says, the sheet that covers all of humanity has been removed. The sheet that is spoken of is the one that divides people. For now, at least, people have stopped hiding behind these sheets and are coming together to help their neighbor. We always say it's too bad disasters have to happen to bring people together in this way. Well, then, let's stop hiding behind the sheets forever.

Right?

Who Do You Hangout With?

Psalm 24

Yesterday, while we were putting the final touches on our church's 20th Annual Community Penny Carnival, I was listening to our youth talk with each other. As they talked with one another they shared a little bit of what their lives are. There was talk about school, friends, food, and the such.

Then they found a common ground - music. They began finding songs they knew, searching for it on their music players, and singing along. The fun really began when they abandoned the music player and just began singing songs they all knew, and there was a lot. They laughed as they sung and danced, and every adult in that room simply smiled and let them be who they are.

To me there is nothing better than the sounds and actions of friendship wrapped in commonality and based in unconditional acceptance. This kind of togetherness is what I think the Psalmist is trying to explain. The Psalmist proclaims God as the ultimate creator and because of God we have many things to be thankful for, not the least of which is being in each other's company while in the presence of God.

In this commonality we find a community of people who love us regardless of belief, economic background, color of skin, gender identification, or any of the other things that separate us from ourselves. It's in this environment we can finally let the walls come down, or the gates lifted up, and live in joyful peace.

I can't think of better place to be, can you?

Please Stop

I'm not sure If I've ever told you who one of my heroes are. Just in case I haven't his name is Mattie Stepanek. Mattie was born with an incurable form of muscular dystrophy called dysautonomic mitochondrial myopathy. The disease slowly took away all of Mattie's muscle control until one day he could no longer breathe on his own. Mattie passed away at the age of 14. 

Mattie is one of my heroes because along the journey of his life he found ways to overcome his abilities and bring a new, positive view of life to everyone he met. Mattie is probably best known for the poems he wrote. His poems are filled with insight, acceptance and true love of self and others people 4 times his age are just beginning to understand.

It's in one of Mattie's poems I found myself launching through a wall that had previously stopped me from understanding how best to bring peace to the world. So, in the place in which we find ourselves today, when it seems to me that the world is becoming more and more divisive, I want to share that poem with you.

For Our World We need to stop.
Just stop.
Stop for a moment...
Before anybody
Says or does anything
That may hurt anyone else.
We need to be silent.
Just silent.
Silent for a moment...
Before we forever lose
The blessing of songs
That grow in our hearts.
We need to notice.
Just notice.
Notice for a moment...
Before the future slips away
Into ashes and dust of humility.
Stop, be silent, and notice...
In so many ways, we are the same.
Our differences are unique treasures.
We have, we are, a mosaic of gifts
To nurture, to offer, to accept.
We need to be.
Just be.
Be for a moment...
Kind and gentle, innocent and trusting
Like children and lambs,
Never judging or vengeful
Like the judging and vengeful.
And now, let us pray,
Differently, yet together,
Before there is no earth, no life,
No chance for peace. 

Words from an 11-year old man who just wanted it all to stop. Mattie said that his life's goal is to be a peacemaker.Why don't we do our best today to help Mattie achieve his dream of making peace in our world a reality.

You Can See! Now What?

Mark 10:46-52

I was deeply touched by that open letter I posted yesterday. The words in that letter from a young man in response to hate speech stayed in my heart all day long. It stayed with me in a way that I felt the need to do something about it - so I did.

In every conversation I had along my day I was sure to ask, "Did you see that letter by that man? No, let me show it to you." The reaction to the words written in a tweet that spewed hate was all the same; disgust. The response of each person I shared the letter with was the same; hope.

They saw, without a doubt, how our communities are becoming one of individuals who care only for themselves and think they can do or say anything they want; sort of a societal anarchy. The people I was in conversation with yesterday also saw how a few words by those who are hurt the most by hatred and division can not only show a willingness to forgive, but also offer the love they feel around them each day.

As I sat and watched people read through that letter I saw an awakening of sorts. I can't say what that awakening will lead to, but I can say that their hearts, minds, and souls have seen the truth and I can only hope they decide to follow what is right and just, or as we say in Hawaii - pono.

An Open Letter

Hebrews 7:23-28

Please follow the link to read an open letter by John Franklin Stephens. Mr. Stephens is a young man who champions the view points of people living with intellectual disabilities. He is also the Global Spokesperson for Special Olympics.

When you're done following the link please read today's passage and ask yourself, "Are we subjected to the same weaknesses as this young man and do we find ways to rise above those weaknesses to be the best person we know how?"

That's really all I got. This young man says it all for me, and for all people.

http://specialolympicsblog.wordpress.com/2012/10/23/an-open-letter-to-ann-coulter/

Happy Is As Happy Does

Jeremiah 31:7-9

I will put yesterday down as one of the better days in my recent life. I actually made it through the day without a single grouchy moment. Normally I would have at least one of those moments, usually when I'm in the middle of doing something and I get interrupted more times than I want to or when I'm trying to help someone understand something and they just don't understand. Yesterday, however, it seems that everything went smoothly.

Thinking back to how yesterday was different than any other day I have to say I'm not sure. I was interrupted many times and there was more than one moment in which my instructions weren't being understood, but I didn't get grouchy. What, then, was the difference?

This morning's passage helps me to better understand why my yesterday was better. I can honestly say everything I did was for someone else, and when I did do something for myself it didn't interrupt anyone else.

It would seem that these past few weeks I've done what I often do; forget to accept help in the things I need to get done. This eventually makes me want to be isolated, which is never a good thing for me or others around me. Yesterday I did things for others, without thought to myself, and in a way that invited everyone to be included. I didn't allow myself to be isolated. In the relationships I experienced yesterday I found a peace that brought with it honest happiness.

Not only was I happy, but those I interacted with seemed to find comfort in the things they came for help with. In today's passage Jeremiah reminds us that things are bad and might get worse, but we have a God whom we can go to with our troubles and that our God will take us in, hold us tight, take us through our trials, and bring us out on the other side.

Relationships are important, especially those with God and others and our selves.

Do You Remember Laughter?

Psalm 126

My all-time favorite rock band is Led Zepplin. To this day I find inspiration in many of their songs. Just a month ago I listened as Thank You was played at a wedding reception, bringing with it an understanding of love so deep that it will last for all time.

In the reflection of today's Psalm I can only hear Robert Plant's voice chuckling an echo of a line from the live version of their most famous song; Stairway to Heaven. The verse I'm referring to is this:

And it's whispered that soon if we all call the tuneThen the piper will lead us to reason.And a new day will dawn for those who stand longAnd the forests will echo with laughter.

Of course the line that was echoed after this verse was sung is "Do you remember laughter?" Which brings to heart the reality of that question. Do you remember laughter?

God gives us every opportunity to enjoy life to its fullest. The Psalmist understood this. The Psalmist also understood that sometimes we have to go through a difficult time in life. It's in this understanding the Psalmist tells of hope in a God that will bring us through times of hurt or sadness or doubt and into a much better time filled with deep, personal rewards.

We find the hope of the Psalmist in the final line of our Psalm. "Those who go out weeping, bearing the seed for sowing, shall come home with shouts of joy, carrying their sheaves." Whatever your day is like, wherever you find yourself today try your best to remember that you have a God who loves you dearly and wants nothing but you to be happy in life. 

While you're at it, find something to laugh at.

Happy Spirit Day

Don't adjust your screen. Yes, this post is in purple. It's in purple because today is National Spirit Day, a day when we are asked to focus on the effects of bullying within the Youth culture. 

Bullying is an all too real thing which happens everyday in every state, in every district, in every school. Unfortunately, bullying happens to those who are deemed "different" by society. I personally know youth who are homeless, have gone through abortions, are in same sex relationships, have been kicked out of their homes, live with drug-addicted parents, are living in abusive foster homes, and so much more who are just trying to deal with their everyday realities. 

These youth sometimes choose to be quiet or alone. They sometimes wear clothing that doesn't fall in line with what the norm is considered. These youth listen to their own music, have their own language, and choose their friends very carefully. Sometimes these friends are just like them and are their only path to not  taking their own lives one day. 

Bullying is real. Bullying is unacceptable. Bullying is un-accepting. If you know of anyone who is a bully, tell them to stop. If you know someone who is being bullied, tell them you accept them unconditionally. Be the friend who will end the cycle.

For all of you who have been or are being bullied it is you who I find to be the strongest, most caring people on the planet. I mean that and believe that with every ounce of my being. Thank you for being you and not pretending to be anything else. 

What Was That Golden Rule Again?

Mark 10:35-45

After yesterdays revelation that one feels called into a life's work by the ignition of deep passions to make people's lives better, today's passage comes as almost a shock. The words of Jesus' own followers asking him to "do for us whatever we ask of you" keeps echoing in my head. I mean, really, who is calling whom? To me, these words tell of where our society currently resides. We truly have become a what's-in-it-for-me culture.

Yesterday I met with my tutor and dear friend and we had the most wonderful conversation on the meaning of spirituality and the definition (as far as one is possible) of spirit. We touched on topics ranging from self worth to communal reliance. The understanding that as individuals we are nothing until we become a part of a community, and yet we cannot become part of a community until we find our self was discussed for close to an hour. As we talked more about humanity and individuality and community we were greatly reminded that the one thing which ties it all together is our God.

Somehow, and for whatever reasons, we have become a society that has forgotten community is more important than individualism. Those words spoken by followers of our Christ show it was happening back then just as it is happening now. However, Jesus being Jesus he gives them a reply that says to them, and to us, what the importance is of being called. He says that he is in the world not to "be served, but to serve."

As followers of Jesus, children of God, or just part of a community we need to begin to put others first. It's what we, humanity and caretakers of creation, are being asked to do.

The Phone Is Ringing

Hebrews 5:1-10

Someone asked me the other day why I'm interested in becoming a minister. I answered "I just feel called to become one." The look on this person's face was priceless as the eyebrows furrowed and nose crinkled just as the word, "huh?" came through pursed lips.

Being called is not easily defined in today's culture. Many of us fall into our career choices. We have gifts we understand to be unique or we have desires we hope to achieve or we follow the paths laid before us in education and end up somewhere we feel happy, or not, as a career.

We become firefighters, office managers, mechanics, engineers, computer programmers, fry cooks, and/or retail managers because of where we end up or because of where we're taken. This is what I would define as being led by events and people along your journey into a life's choice that economically befits your chosen lifestyle. The dictionary can better define a career than I could ever hope to: an occupation or profession, especially one requiring special training followed as one's lifework.

A calling is more like a vocation, which is similarly defined as a career with one twist; a strong impulse to follow one's lifework. If you become a firefighter it's because deep inside you feel the need to save lives. If you become a mechanic it's because you have a passion to keep cars in their best condition in order that those driving them are ensured safety. If you become a retail manager it's because within you lays the desire to accomplish goals with and through the help of others. 

Becoming a minister, to me, is a deep desire to share in the journey of those around me in order that a relationship with God, one another, and themselves can become a reality. Becoming a minister is a calling and the call comes from my God. All that my life is, everything which has provided me with the abilities I posses, has prepared me for what will become my lifework and it all comes from God.

It's taken me a while to answer this call. For some reason every time the "phone" rang I saw the caller ID and decided to ignore it. Now that I've answered the call there's a new life which has been born within me. It's been a long journey, one filled with many life lessons. I thank God everyday that I've come through all of that and into a place where the lessons I've learned can best be used to help others.

Wait, what's that noise. Sorry, gotta go...the phone is ringing.

Who Is "He"?

Isaiah 53:4-12

I found a way to confuse myself this morning, not just once, but twice. I began reading the passage for today and immediately started thinking, "Why is the second passage of the week from the New Testament, it's usually from the Old...hmm" So I re-check the passage, re-open my bible, and re-read the same words.

Unable to understand what I'm reading as being from the words of Old Testament, I double check the book, chapter, and verse of today's passage to be sure I'm on the right page. I finally give in to the fact that I'm in the right place and continue reading, all the time thinking, "Isaiah must be a great prophet to be talking about the life of Jesus hundreds of years before that life was to take place.

Indeed, Isaiah is a great prophet. Indeed, Isaiah is believed to be foretelling the coming life of the Messiah. Indeed, when you read the same passage you may very well say that Isaiah's words are uncanny and is most definitely talking about Jesus.

Or maybe not.

After I accepted this passage to be the words from the prophet Isaiah and put it into context I felt a different message in my heart. This portion of Isaiah, known as Deutero-Isaiah, or Second Isaiah (chapters 40-55), is written in a time when the people of Judea were experiencing the second exile of their people from their land. The introduction of a "servant" actually occurs very early in this section of Isaiah and continues throughout.

This servant is said to be sent from God to be with God's people in this time of turmoil. Not only is this servant sent directly from God, but is also just like them, feeling the same anxieties and fears. This servant also has the strength and courage to not just endure the unknown, but to also find a way to lead them into a better place.

Sometimes when we take a step back and try to separate our personal beliefs from that the message the bible is trying to give us we see a new enlightening. In today's case I see the words of a God who promises that we are never alone in the trials we face. If we allow ourselves to be open enough in our hearts and minds  we will see that our lives are filled with "servants" sent by God to share in our suffering as well as be the strength we need to get through it.

Whatever you are going through, whatever you may be experiencing, please know that you have a God that never leaves your side.

Safety

Psalm 91:9-6

I write this post with the thought that a new friend is preparing for an exploratory surgery for what is believed to be the return of cancerous cells. Before the weekend it was obvious she was keeping a lot of her anxieties bottled up and, knowing her for as little time as I have, I understood this to mean only that she doesn't want to burden anyone with what she is going through.

One of the things she has been wanting to do for the few months I've known her is get back to church. Every time I talked about whatever the newest thing I learned in my classes were or what we talked about in church she always stated that she really missed the fellowship and relationships her church offered. She finally went back last week Sunday, not sure about yesterday.

I see in her an awareness of how strength can be found in God and in others. This strength is so much more needed when we feel like the strength we have within ourselves is somewhat diminished because of our fears or lack of understanding of the unknown. I also see in her the acceptance that we find the courage we need by being with God through others.

If you read this I ask that you pray for my friend, not so much for safety or healing, but for helping us remember that God is our refuge and that God is always with us.

Lost and Found

I went through a major change this week. I left one of my part time jobs. I say this is major not because my finances will be tight, or because I've never quit a job before without hating that job. I say this is major because I'm trusting more of my life to God.

In that job I was making an extra $250 a month which helped with making ends meet and being able to take my wife out for a nice date. Recently we paid off a rather large bill and even with the purchase, lease actually, of a new car we found ourselves saving about $250 a month. So what was financially necessary from that part time job was no longer needed. Of course, just as most of you do, I worry if the extra money would still be useful.

The decision to leave that job wasn't mainly financial, though. It had more to do with me needing the time to finish my studies on time in order to graduate this school year. That, above all else, is becoming a driving factor in the decisions I make for my life these days. It would seem that all other things are becoming an afterthought, which is good in one sense and not so good in others.

Parts of my life are falling behind, I'm forgetting other deadlines, I'm not as organized as I would like to be. But I am also surrounded by caring, loving, understanding people who share the path I'm on and that is where I find the strength to keep going.

Although I'm in a place that might be considered "darkness" (not too dark, though), I have many points of light leading me through it. My life is about following Jesus, and the sacrifices I'm making are well worth it.

Giving Up

Mark 10:17-31

Today's passage is another one of my favorites. The story of the rich man and his inability to part with his possessions in order to follow Christ and Jesus' comment about a camel passing through the eye of a needle sort of gives me a chuckle. Maybe that's because I'm not rich.

Before you start saying, "Even Randy is beginning to use class division in his rhetoric" let me say I know lots of rich people who are most definitely going to see the kingdom of God. These people will get there because they have decided to make a commitment to following Christ, regardless of the costs.

This passage has always carried with it the connotation that in order to follow Christ we need to give up everything. I don't think that's the message at all. I believe this passage is asking us to be willing to give up everything. I will agree the rich man is being told to sell everything and give the money to the poor, but the message is not in the asking, it's in the reaction. The man was unwilling to do what was necessary.

In his point of view the man was already following the law, and shouldn't that have been enough? Apparently not. At times we are asked to give up everything in order to do what Christ is asking us to do. We cancel meetings to be with a friend who's lover just left them, we get only one hour of sleep because we stayed up all night talking with a family member who is losing their home, we give up our pocket money and skip lunch because someone who is more hungry than you asks for a few dollars to get a meal.

Christ's message is not that we have to become destitute in order to get to the kingdom of God. All we have to be is willing; truly willing because that day may come.