Only The Women?

Acts 16:9-15

I find it very interesting that in today's passage Paul and his travelers try to find a place of prayer on the Sabbath day and, going to a place where there is supposed to be one, decide to speak to the women who are gathered there. I find it interesting not that they speak to the women, rather I find it interesting that the men aren't even mentioned. Which brings up my question for the day - Where are the men of today, and how important is the role of the woman in today's society?

My wife and I talked about how the roles of men and women are blurring more and more with each passing year. She sees this at a more basic level, being a kindergarten teacher and I see this at a more advanced level, being a high school worker. She sees how the girls are becoming the ones who take more risks, question authority more, and do things my wife is more accustomed to a little boy doing.

I see how young women are harder workers, smarter, and take their successes and failures with more pride than young men. I also see how the two are represented in a relationship. While I'll be the first to admit my wife is the boss of the family, I can also tell you I'm the decision maker. I will make decisions which we both agree on most of the time, but on rare occasions I will make a decision she doesn't like. I know the decision is what's best for the family in the long run, or believe I know, and for a few days there's quiet in the house, but when we can sit and talk and work through the decision that was made we both understand where the other is coming from and can accept the decision a little easier. In that way our relationship is actually one based in equality.

Today's younger relationships are lacking the same level of input, leaving the woman to be the sole decision-maker. I see this fact putting extra pressures on the young woman to a point where it's actually better to not be in a relationship at all.

I don't mean to imply the men should make all the decisions in a relationship, what I do mean to say is that the male's role is beginning to diminish. A relationship works best when the people involved work together to accomplish a goal. It doesn't matter whether the relationship is heterosexual, homosexual, business, or friendly, what is needed is a speaking and listening of all points of view within the relationship and someone to make the final decision based on those points of view.

The same is with our relationship with God. If we open ourselves to listening to what God is asking us to do and be willing to have a conversation about it, we will be able to make a good decision based on how we will best be able to serve God.

Equity v. Equality

Psalm 67

I remember seeing a cartoon posted in Facebook one day which truly illustrated the difference between equity and equality. The top picture had 3 people, each standing on a wooden crate in order to look over a fence. The people were of differing heights so the tall person stood with the top of the fence to his chest, the shorter person stood with the top of the fence above his head, and the person who was of medium height stood with the top of the fence just below his chin. That picture was titled "Equality" because each of the three were standing on a wooden crate which was exactly the same size.

The bottom picture, which was titled "Equity", shows the taller person with no wooden crate, the medium height person standing on one crate, and the shorter one standing on two crates which brings all of them to stand with the top of the fence just below their chin. The three people were now the exact same height and could equally enjoy whatever it was they were trying to see over the fence.

Today's Psalmist reminds us that God treats us with equity. In God's view we are not all the same, we each have different gifts which are shared by us at different levels. While there are some of us with the gift of organization, using color-coded notes in neatly catalogued calendars, there are those of us who remember we have a doctor's appointment purely by mistake and when we look at when that appointment was we call our doctor to apologize for not being there yesterday.

Because we are different people with different gifts and different abilities we cannot all be treated the same. Rather, we are to be treated according to our abilities so that the common good of all creation is achieved. We are loved the same by God and we are all given the opportunities to use our gifts in different situations to the abilities we are able to use them by God. The hope then becomes that we recognize how we are to use the gifts given to us by God to make our world a better place.

In other words, if you see someone who needs to use your crate, even if for a moment, let them borrow it. If you see that they may need it for a longer period of time, let them have it. I'm sure you'll still be able to see over the fence either way.

Friday Musings

Giving and Receiving – by Pujakins

The loving heart

gives without thought,

without stint of itself;

gives and is given in return.

And I am given that I may give,

and give that giving may be and continue.

All life is a giving and a receiving,

that the giving may have a purpose

and the receiving a place to be.

Unfolding the gifts means

unwrapping the giving

to discover the receiver

and by accepting

the receiver in turn gives

as the circle becomes complete.

With a full heart my giving is.

With an open heart, my receiving is.

The love that gives and receives

has endless supply and never lacks;

the love that gives without stint

receives the same and more,

and finds in the giving

and in the receiving

endless joy.

A Poem on Giving and Receiving – Author Unknown

I launched a smile; far out it sailed

On life's wide troubled sea.

And many more than I could count

Came sailing back to me.

I clasped a hand while whispering,

"The clouds will melt away."

I felt my life was very blessed

All through the hours that day.

I sent a thought of happiness

Where it was needed sore,

And very soon thereafter, found

Joy added to my store.

I wisely shared my slender hoard,

Toil-earned coins of gold;

But presently it flowed right back.

Increased a hundredfold.

I helped another climb a hill,

A little thing to do:

And yet it brought a rich reward,

A friendship that was new.

I think each morning when I rise,

Of how I may achieve,

I know by serving I advance,

By giving I receive.

“It is better to deserve without receiving, than to receive without deserving” – Robert Green Ingersoll

“A hundred times every day I remind myself that my inner and outer life depend on the labors of other [people], living and dead, and that I must exert myself in order to give in the same measure as I have received and am still receiving.” – Albert Einstein

I think that the most difficult thing is allowing yourself to be loved, so receiving the love and feeling like you deserve it is a pretty big struggle. I suppose that's what I've learnt recently, to allow myself to be loved. – Nicole Kidman 

But, Can We?

John 13:31-35

In today's reflection I want to take us back to before Easter and Good Friday. I want to go back to that day we call Maundy Thursday, the day, actually the night we commemorate Jesus' last gathering with his disciples as a man on earth.

Imagine this setting, if you will. Jesus will soon be sharing a meal with his closest friends. By this time he is fully aware that this will be his final night on earth and that a tragic death is upon him. Jesus also knows that he will be sharing a meal with people who will turn on him, deny they know him, refuse to stand up for him, and even point him out as the criminal the authorities are looking for.

In other words, Jesus will be dining with people he knows will leave him alone and helpless at a time when he'll need them most.

As his supper guests enter the room Jesus kneels before them and washes their feet, as would a lowly servant. During Supper he teaches them for the final time about love and how we all live together as one people under one God. He says a prayer to God for the protection of his friends and asks that they will be able to share the things they have learned from him.

Then, on his way out of that room to go pray alone Jesus says to his group of friends, of which every single one of them will abandon him in a time when he'll need them the most, "Love one another as I have loved you."

I ask this one question - If you knew, absolutely knew that the people you were having supper with were going to turn against you, would you be able to do and say the things Jesus did and mean it with every fiber of your being?

It is by that love we should strive to be known as followers of Christ.

The Ultimate Gift-Giver

Revelation 21:1-6

I'm in a place now where I'm beginning to notice that my reactions to people's reactions are not what they would have been a few years ago. Let me explain. Last week as people were posting responses to the events in Boston which said something to the effect of, "I hope they catch and kill those $%#@ers!" I found myself thinking, Why do we allow ourselves to condone hate speech in response to hate action."

In the past I would have been the one who joined in and said, "Yeah, kill them!" These days, however, I have a very difficult time with people condemning and using words that promote division and hate, even in response to acts of hate. Maybe I'm getting old, or maybe I'm realizing that hate is not, nor will it ever be the answer.

The last verse in today's passage really got me thinking about something. The Lord says to John (at least we think it's John), "To the thirsty I will give water as a gift..." I've thought of God as many things: Creator, Sustainer, Guide, Shepherd, Provider. I don't think I've really seen God as a gift-giver before, though.

In my culture a gift is called a borato. I'm honestly not sure where that word comes from, but I do know it's not a Hawaiian word. Neither is it a Spanish word, so don't "Google" it. The word borato, the best I can define it, comes from the plantation times of Hawaii's history when a gift was given whenever one visited a person's home. It was thought to be impolite to go to someone's home, especially if invited for a gathering such as a birthday party, to come empty-handed. A borato, then, is both an offering and a way of saying thank you.

The borato is never expected, nor is it given with anything expected in return. It is truly a gift one brings out of respect for the home you are visiting. When someone from Hawaii visits friends and family on the mainland or on the neighbor islands we always take a borato.

This is the kind of gift I understand God to be giving as he offers us a drink from the waters of life. It's a gift that is given out of respect for entering our lives. Uh-oh, I can see I've raised a few eyebrows. Read the passage, it says God is coming to dwell among us. God is coming into our house and God's bringing the most wonderful gift of all; a life filled with peace, joy, and love. That is what living with God will be like.

So, how does any of this pertain to my feelings about the words of others I've heard and read in the last week or so? I just think that if God is coming to live with us, shouldn't we make our house more welcoming to someone who is bringing the ultimate gift when they come to visit us?

Stop the cycle, end the hate.

It Really Does(n't) Matter

Acts 11:1-18

Yesterday afternoon I, along with two colleagues I work with at the high school, had to set up 61 chairs and tables for an all-school test day we're having today. Not only did we have to set up 61 chairs and tables, we had to do it in a room designed for 40.

At first glance we thought the task to be impossible, or at least extremely difficult. Our first obstacle was one of the test rules which state that if the table a student is sitting at is less than 6 feet long only 1 student can be at the table. We had 20 of those tables and as such our available student size was cut in half.

We looked around and saw that there were 15 of those table/chair combos which weren't being used sitting in a section of the room . We asked the teacher whose room we were setting up if we could use those chairs and she said, "We never use them because the kids don't like them, but if you have to then I guess it's okay." So we rearranged the room in order to fit those chair/tables.

We were still short by about 25 seats. We looked around the rest of the building and found some 2-foot tables (affectionately known as "half tables") which were sitting in a corner of the building collecting dust. We asked the teacher in whose room those tables were being stored if we could use them, and she said, "I don't see why not, we never use them because nobody likes them."

We counted how many tables there were and when we counted 40 we became excited as we quickly realized we had more than enough. the question now became how we were going to get them across the building and into the room. Then, as if by divine intervention, a group of about 6 freshmen from the boy's track team showed up and asked if we needed help.

Within an hour, and with the help of those young men, the room was set up and we were ready for the next day. As I looked around the room, delighted in the work that was done, I noticed that our room was one of a mixed group of chairs and tables, each with its own style, color, and flaws which had all come together for one purpose - to provide whatever it could to accomplish a common goal.

I had also thought about the people who had put all these chairs and tables into that room. We, too, were of different color, style, and age and we, too, had our own flaws. In spite of our differences, though, we found a way to come together to provide whatever we could to accomplish a single goal.

In our passage from Acts, Peter is in the same situation. He's being told that the people he's going to visit are "unclean" and shouldn't be associated with. Peter, however, sees it in a different way and tells his detractors that it really doesn't matter what one's practices are, what does matter is they are invited into the community. As a part of the community these people will each be able to provide whatever they can in order to accomplish a single goal: to share in the love of God as shown to us through our Christ Jesus.

If we are to do our part as a member of the community tasked to help all people be welcomed into the love of God, then we need to realize we each have our differences and find a way to unite regardless of those differences. Don't you think?

Earth Day

Psalm 148

I know it's just a coincidence so I'm not going to make too much about it, but the fact that today is Earth Day and today's psalm is about the Earth praising God has a little too much synchronicity to be completely ignored. After a week where we were succumbed to a media-induced barrage of the events in Boston, while overlooking the rest of the world's important news, it was good to have a day I could unplug from the world and focus on me.

Yesterday, after coming home from church and what seemed a very busy day, I sat at our dining table in complete silence and caught up on a few things I really needed to get to. As I did things like pay bills, change rental car reservations, and organize my thoughts around our church's Youth fundraiser I refused to play any music or turn on the TV. The only sounds I heard were the chirping of  birds, the rustle of leaves, the falling of gentle rain, laughter of children playing, and the snoring of our pet dog. In that silence I was able to concentrate and finally, even though I was doing "busy" work, calm my spirit.

Until yesterday afternoon I felt as though the responsibilities I have were beginning to fall apart because I have too much to do and I wasn't in control. In the silence of yesterday I remembered I am not in control, and God will get me through it all. Reconnecting with God through the quietness given to me through the sounds of God's Earth helped to repair and strengthen my relationship with God. It's because of the chirps, rustles, laughter, and, yes, snoring that I was able to get out from the corner I was putting myself in. I came out of that corner and into the light and now am able to run free to do God's work.

God's gift of the Earth is sometimes ignored. Today's Psalm reminds us it's still there in all it's glory. Not only does the Psalm remind us that God's gift is there for us to enjoy, it reminds us that Earth never stops reminding us of God's presence. In celebration of Earth Day I hope you find the time to sit in God's silence and enjoy the chirping, rustling, and laughter to reconnect to God's love.

Stop, Just Stop

I went to bed last night with the sounds of gunshots and explosions ringing in my ear. I woke up this morning with the sights of hate and division on my computer screen. Last night I thought to myself, "This whole terrible week may finally be coming to a close and maybe we'll begin to find some answers." This morning I think to myself, "How is it that people can rush so quickly to call these two kids the horrible names they are calling them."

I wish, no, more than that, I hope that people can find a way to put aside their hunger for revenge and their thirst for blood and find a way to love, listen, understand, and forgive.

I agree that what these two boys did is a horrible thing. I can also see how they may have been misguided into doing what they did based on their personal ideals. What I cannot see is how there can be those who rush to judge before we fully understand anything. Anger, hatred, and violence is never the answer. Those emotions only evoke more of the same emotions, and actions based on those emotions, to be spread.

The last prayer I said last night just before falling asleep was for the safety of everyone involved in the manhunt and that there would be a peaceful end to all of the terrible events in and around Boston, including and especially for the young man they were looking for. The first prayer I said this morning was for the young man the police might have "holed-up" and that he will know there are people out here who are concerned for his safety.

My next prayer is going to be that all of those who are filled with hate for this man, his brother, and any others who may be involved to be able to find the peace and love they need to find a forgiving spirit.

Be One

John 10:22-30

I'm watching the inter-faith memorial for the Boston tragedy with great pride in being both an American and a person of faith. We've heard messages from different religions, government officials, and choirs. Even Yo-Yo Ma played his cello in only the way he can. Those delivering the messages represented different people, but the message they gave was the same: we will heal and we will move forward, and we will do this because we are united by one ideal; love.

I don't know what your politics are, and I won't assume you should be on the left or the right or somewhere in the middle on the issues which face our country, and to an extent the world. What I will say is that my hope is you will be open-minded enough to understand that the problem we face in this world is not that we should have less or more of anything, but that we should find a way to ensure that all people at least have enough.

The current debates surrounding issues such as guns, abortion, marriage, poverty, and so on all showcase exactly where the problem currently is. It's not in the arguments that we should have less guns, or more. It's not in the arguments that marriage is exclusive or inclusive. It's not in the arguments on when life begins.

The problems which face our society lay in the simple fact that we're too busy arguing and not busy enough listening.

In today's passage Jesus reminds us just that. The disciples want him to speak plainly, and Jesus says, "I have been, but you're not paying attention." I find these words to ring true today. People are too busy trying to prove their point-of-view to be the true one and not busy enough paying attention to what others are trying to say. Unfortunately, the arguing never stops and so the problem never gets solved.

Stop, if just for a moment, and listen to the other side. Try to find a way to work together and solve the issues which are pulling our society apart.

One Of Many

Revelation 7:9-17

My thoughts are still with the events from Monday's bombing in Boston. As such I see today's passage in a light I've not seen it before. I'm vaguely familiar with the passage, but admittingly more familiar with the message; at least the message I've been taught.

The message from these verses in Revelation I have grown up with is that God is our shelter and Jesus is our shepherd and it's only through my steadfast belief in and service to them that I will see heaven. In today's new light I find my focus more on the great multitude standing before the throne.

Maybe it's just where my thoughts are leading me or maybe it's because I'm honestly seeing things anew in my relationship with the bible, but I want to submit to you that the great multitude, a number too great to count, stand in the presence of God as a people who are cleaned of all transgressions. These people come from all nations, tribes, peoples, and languages unified by one thing - the love of God as shown to us by the life, death, and resurrection of Christ Jesus.

You see, as a Christian I firmly believe that when Jesus gave his life for us it was given for all of humanity, not just for the select few who are "believers". To use a more evangelical language the sins of all people were paid for through the blood of Jesus on the cross. The multitude in this passage stand before God as a people who have been through a life on Earth filled with physical, mental, and emotional pain. Their relationships with God, others, and self have been repaired, and now they understand that it's through love a life filled with peace and joy is possible.

In Boston, the multitudes of people who came together to help their neighbors is a perfect example of this love. Whether it's in the story of the doctor who ran in the marathon then ran to the hospital to help in the trauma center, or in the story of the anonymous man who just jumped into the fray to help the first responders clear debris and carry victims, or in the story of the hundreds who donated blood, the multitude unified around one single mission - so that others know love lives.

We don't stand alone in this life. People who love us unconditionally surround us at all times. Don't be afraid to reach out to one of the multitude when you need someone to share your trials. At the same time, don't forget to be the one in the multitude to see when your sister or brother needs help. Jesus lives through us. God's love shines on.

Life

Acts 9:36-43

Very soon we will be only 24 hours removed from the tragedy in Boston, Massachusetts. At last count the 2 explosions close to the finish line of the world-renown Boston Marathon have injured at least 176 people, 3 of which have died. The last 24 hours have been filled with questions, to which we don't have answers - not yet.

The last 24 hours have also been filled with acts of heroism, selflessness, thoughtfulness, and self-sacrifice. We've seen people from around the world come together regardless of ethnicity, age, gender identification, socio-economic standing, or abilities. In the last 24-hours, at least in one small corner of the world, people put aside their differences to find a way to better the life of someone else.

I heard it said that whoever might be responsible for this act of terrorism chose what may be the worst choice for such an act. In that place, at that time, people from around the world were gathered by the 10's of thousands to cheer one another on as they accomplished what is most definitely a difficult athletic endeavor. Gathered in that place were Muslim, Christian, Buddhist, Jew, and much more. Gathered in that place were American, Asian, African, European, Middle Eastern, Latin, and so much more. Gathered as one people were male, female, gay, straight, and many others. In that place people were gathered for one reason; to be united under one ideal - to recognize hard work and the successes of the human spirit.

When people are united in such a way it's impossible to break their spirit. Yes, for a moment people may be fearful or uncertain of what's going to happen next, but for the most part those feelings subside as the urgency, rather the need to help their fellow humans takes over. It's what we do as people who believe in good triumphing over evil.

In our passage, Peter traveled to a nearby town to bring back to life a woman who was loved by many. In Boston, people are coming together to bring life back to a city they love. In America people are coming together to bring life back to a country we love. In the world people are coming together to bring life to a world we love.

There are times when the coming together of people is given pause due to acts of evil, but when we come together and are united as a people who stand for justice and peace, no evil can keep us paused for long.

Alternatives

Psalm 23

What can one say about this Psalm that hasn't already been said. The literary visions it paints of being with God in a green meadow and walking side by side with God along the banks of a calm stream really do bring a certain peace to my heart. The fact that God protects me and honors me with extravagant hospitality is enough to carry me through any hardships I might face.

However, Have you ever wondered if there were alternate versions of this well-known Psalm? I did, and here's a few of the more interesting ones I've found:

"The Lord Is My Pace Setter" – Author Unkown

The Lord is my Pace-setter; I shall not rush. He makes me stop and rest for quiet intervals.

He provides me with images of stillness, That restore my serenity;

He leads me in ways of efficiency through calmness of mind, And His guidance is peace.

Even though I have a great many things to accomplish each day, I will not fret, for His presence is here.

His timelessness, His all importance, will keep me in balance.

He prepares refreshment and renewal in the midst of my activity by anointing my mind with His oils of tranquility.

My cup of joyous energy overflows!

Surely harmony and effectiveness shall be the fruits of my hours, for I shall walk in the peace of my Lord, and dwell in His house for ever.

An alternative Psalm 23

(Wayne Cordeiro quoting Christine & Tom Sine in “Leading on Empty”)

The clock is my dictator, I shall not rest.

It makes me lie down only when exhausted.

It leads me into deep depression, it hounds my soul.

It leads me in circles of frenzy for activities’ sake.

Even though I run frantically from task to task,

I will never get it all done, for my “ideal” is with me.

Deadlines and my need for approval, they drive me.

They demand performance from me, beyond the limits of my schedule.

They anoint my head with migraines, my in-basket overflows.

Surely fatigue and time pressure shall follow me all the days of my life.

And I will dwell in the bonds of frustration forever.

And My favorite:

Quiet Water -Anonymous 

Just when I think

“Why should I bother”

You take me by the hand

And lead me to still water

Friday Musings

Poems that tell the story of my week.

Perhaps the World Ends Here – By Joy Haro

The world begins at a kitchen table. No matter what, we must eat to live.

The gifts of earth are brought and prepared, set on the table. So it has been since creation, and it will go on.

We chase chickens or dogs away from it. Babies teethe at the corners. They scrape their knees under it.

It is here that children are given instructions on what it means to be human. We make men at it, we make women.

At this table we gossip, recall enemies and the ghosts of lovers.

Our dreams drink coffee with us as they put their arms around our children. They laugh with us at our poor falling-down selves and as we put ourselves back together once again at the table.

This table has been a house in the rain, an umbrella in the sun.

Wars have begun and ended at this table. It is a place to hide in the shadow of terror. A place to celebrate the terrible victory.

We have given birth on this table, and have prepared our parents for burial here.

At this table we sing with joy, with sorrow. We pray of suffering and remorse. We give thanks.

Perhaps the world will end at the kitchen table, while we are laughing and crying, eating of the last sweet bite.

I'll Always Be There For You – by Toni

Lately I've been trying to find the words

To prove my love is true

And that no matter what happens in this world

I’ll be there for you

I’ll be there for you when you need someone

To come and hold you tight

I’ll be there for you even if you call

In the middle of the night

I’ll be there for you when the rain won’t stop

Falling upon your life

I’ll wipe your tears and chase your fears

I’ll help you with your fight

I’ll do my best to protect you from harm

To keep you safe and well

And when you have a problem hidden

I’ll be who you can tell

I’ll take your very darkest night

And I’ll make it bright for you

And even if we are far apart

My love will still be true

And even if they send me away to

That hospital far away

I wont give up… I’ll fight for us

Every hour of every day

When this world turns bitter and cold

And you don’t know what to do

I’ll be the one that’s there to hold

Together we’ll pull through

When you're alone calling out for help

Struggling to even stand

I’ll use my strength to keep you up

I’ll hold out to you, my hand

And I know these are but just words on a page

But they mean so very much more

They are everything that I promise to do

They are everything for you, I’d endure

And I know I’m not as strong as before

And maybe now I’m a little weak

But my love for you still stands as strong

Even when this world turns bleak

You've given me a reason to live and to fight

So I’ll live and I’ll fight for you

For I know together, even though we've suffered

In the end we will pull through

All this pain that you've been handed

You don’t deserve a drop

You're not a bad person and you've done nothing wrong

So I’ll fight for your pain to stop

It makes me angry that someone so pure

Should be made to feel this pain

I know that there’s no miracle cure

But I’ll try to stop this rain

So when the world turns bitter and cold

And you don’t know what to do

You never have to be afraid cos’

I’ll be there for you

Breakfast Conversations

John 21:1-19

As much as possible my wife and I share a table at every meal. In fact, when our son lived with us we did everything we could to eat with one another. I have to admit that growing up most of my meals were on the go, or in my bedroom, or in front of the TV. My wife, however, had figured out how to ensure her and her son ate together, and When I joined their family I had to re-learn this habit.

In hindsight, it wasn't really that difficult. Dinner was cooked, the table was set, and she told everyone dinner was ready. At that point we sat on the table and ate. To this date, even with our son living on his own, my wife and I share a table at mealtime. More than that, though, we share conversation, and to an extent, we share one another.

As we sit we talk about the events of our day, our thoughts about what's happening in the news of the world, politics and religion, how we don't like the portrayal of certain ideas in TV commercials, and almost anything else. We share secrets (not secrets of others, secrets between each other), we laugh, cry, and get mad (not at each other, at situations from our day). Our relationship grows closer with each mealtime conversation.

This, I suspect, is what happens between Jesus and Simon on this third and final time Jesus appears to the disciples after his resurrection in the book of John. We are shown that this time, and almost immediately, the disciples recognize Jesus. The disciples are then invited to sit, eat breakfast, and share in one another's company.

I think all Jesus really wants is for us to share our lives with one another, and with God. So, when you get a chance make some toast, pour a cup of coffee, and sit with God to talk about your day - God's already at the table.

In The Choir

Revelation 5:11-14

One of the first groups I joined in the church was the choir. That was a good time, before other church-related responsibilities, such as teaching Sunday school, took over. Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoyed, and still enjoy, teaching Sunday school. It's just that sometimes I really miss singing in the choir but I know I just don't have the time for rehearsals, Sunday morning warm-ups and the other things that go into being a part of the choir.

I still remember my first choir rehearsal. It was during the summer when the choir of the church I was attending had what they called a summer choir, or choir for anyone who wanted to sing, but didn't think they were ready for prime time choiring. As I walked in I was greeted by the choir director with a warm smile and a gentle hello. I replied with a sheepish look, but in a voice that mustered as much confidence as I could.

As soon as I said hello one of the choir leaders sat up, looked my way, smiled widely and said one word, "Tenor." I had no idea what my vocal capabilities were, but he seemed to be so sure of it that I said, "Yes." without even thinking about it. So, for the next few years I sang tenor in a 40-voice choir in my church.

As much as I remember the first day I sang with the choir, I remember the last. Our church's worship and educational planning was centered around the lectionary. On that last day I sang in my church's choir the lectionary cycle fell on the Old Testament passage that begins with Isaiah 6:1 and talks about the call of that prophet. "In the year King Uzziah died..." is how it begins, and it's also how a song which always brings tears to my eyes begins.

Today, as I read the passage from revelation I recalled how I stood in the middle of that choir, surrounded by dozens of voices, all singing the praises of God. It brought back memories of knowing what it must be like   to worship God with all that is inside me.

I really have no words to describe it, and therefore am thankful to the Psalmists and author of Revelation for describing it so well for me. I leave you with this challenge. Put on a pair of headphones, find a place you can be undisturbed for 7 or 8 minutes, and follow the link below. Oh, don't forget to turn up the volume.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kECS5_NsK68

But, But, But

Acts 9:1-20

One Sunday, as we were discussing major theological issues (wink, wink) with the Youth of a church I was serving, someone said, "There sure are a lot of 'buts' in the bible." Of course, because we were deeply conversed in major theological studies (wink, wink) everybody in the room laughed. "He said butts in the bible." Ah, the energies of 12 and 13 year-olds.

That young man was correct, though, and we began a discussion on just how many times we hear "but" in the bible. We used many examples; Moses, Noah, Jonah, just about every prophet, and even Jesus himself all said, "But, I'm not ready" or, "But, I don't know how", or, "But, are you sure you want me to do this, God?"

Today's passage gives us one of those examples where someone is asked by Jesus to do something, and isn't quite sure he should. Ananias, one of Jesus' disciples, was asked to go see Saul, who is soon to become Paul, to bring him a message that all will be okay. Ananias isn't sure he should do this, after all, Saul was a sworn binder-and-bringer-to-justice-of-Christians kind of guy; not really safe for Ananias. Of course, Jesus says everything will be fine, Ananias does what he is asked, and behold Saul is reborn with new sight.

Along our own path we're sometimes, or often, called to do or say things in the name of Jesus which we're not comfortable doing. Feed the hungry, help the poor, house the orphan, assist the widow, and other such things which make us step outside our comfort zone is exactly what being a Christian is about. Jesus didn't think twice when he stopped to restore sight to the blind or movement to the cripple so neither should we.

So, the next time you're contemplating whether or not you should do something to better someone else's life, instead of saying "but" maybe you should ask, "how?" Just as the answer came to Ananias, it will come to you.

Just A Moment, Please

Psalm 30

This past weekend was a bit of a trying time for my wife and myself. A couple of weeks ago she was on a walk at the beach and fell. Nothing was broken, except maybe her pride, but she did get a couple of light abrasions, what we call "strawberries." We put some ointment and a bandage over the scrapes and within a few days all looked to be good.

Then, last Wednesday the scrape on her forearm seemed to be getting worse, so we put some antibiotic ointment and a bandage on it and things got worse. The scrape became infectious and doubled in size. We went to the emergency room on Friday, was given some antibiotics and a bandage, and was sent home.

By Sunday morning the infection had tripled in size, to about 6-inches long and 3-inches wide. The skin had bubbled and was starting to ooze from some of the bumps. She went back to the ER, was given some antibiotic intravenously, and was sent home with more antibiotics and a bandage. Last night the itch on her arm had become unbearable, we were afraid it was more than it seemed and took one more trip to the ER.

She did, in fact, have a terrible reaction to the ointment we used last week and, as we learned from the doctor last night, these ointments get deep into the tissue of our skin and can take a few days to clear. So, this time we were given some anti-itchy medicine, was sent home without bandages, and this morning I can say the worst of our worries are gone. The infection seems to have stopped spreading, the oozing isn't oozing, and the wound looks to be clearing up; but, we need to still be watchful.

This morning's passage is a good reminder that in time all will be understood, we just need to do our part and be persistent in gaining that understanding. In the lesson of my wife's and my weekend, we kept returning to the place that could give us answers until the answer felt right. In the case of your spirituality, the same can be said. Finding a community of people with whom to share your faith journey towards God, whoever that God may be for you, is not an easy one.

As children we are taught a certain way by our parents and leaders within society that shape us. But if those teachings don't feel right, don't conform for conformity's sake. In time, and with persistence, we will find the place we are comfortable, and that is the place we belong. Sometimes the search will bring personal conflicts and deeply felt pain, but in the end the rewards will be worth it. Like our Psalmist says, "Weeping may linger for the night, but joy comes with the morning."

Our morning is coming. Be patient, most of all be persistent.

Friday Musings

From his light (from The Poem of the Sufi Way)

-by Umar Ibn al-Farid

From his light,

     the niche of my essence enlightened me;

          by means of me,

               my nights blazed morning bright.

I made me witness my being there

     for I was he;

          I witnessed him as me,

               the light, my splendor.

By me the valley was made holy,

     and I flung my robe of honor --

          my "taking off of sandals" --

               on those summoned there.

I embraced my lights

     and so was their guide;

          how wondrous a soul

               illuminating lights!

I set firm my many Sinais

     and there prayed to myself;

          I attained every goal,

               as my being spoke with me.

My full moon never waned;

     my sun, it never set,

          and all the blazing stars

               followed my lead.

Believe In The Light

John 20:19-31

Yesterday, as a colleague and I were waiting for a friend of the church to pick up a file cabinet, a conversation ensued on what we believe to be our favorite Gospel. We talked about the similarities and differences between the four official ones, and decided they were all good in their own way. To be honest I had never really given any thought to what my "favorite" Gospel is, but given the time which has passed after that conversation I do have to admit I'm leaning towards John.

I am understanding the Gospel of John to be something completely different than how it was taught to me in my early years. I had always been told that John is the Gospel we most use to defend the fact that Jesus is the one and only way. I had been asked to memorize the fact that if I don't believe in Jesus my life will perish. I have always thought the "light" spoken about in John is a good thing, a light we should seek to live under.

In the past year I have seen John in a different light; one which is meant to expose those who do not believe as opposed to a light that is inviting and all-encompassing. I am beginning to understand that John is written by a Jewish Synagogue who thought their small community to be threatened by outsiders intent on out-casting them from the rest of society simply because of their belief that Jesus Christ is the messiah.

Today's passage asks us to be among the believers. We may have doubts and require proof in order to believe, but there's nothing wrong with that. In my opinion, questioning your belief is good. You see, in the example from John we read today we see that all of the disciples who were there, or already a part of the community, believed as soon as they saw Jesus. It is the one, the outsider, who didn't believe what he was told, but did believe as soon as he saw Jesus as well.

The all-exposing light of John takes one last shine on the unbeliever and as Thomas is exposed to the light so does he come to understand. The light will shine on all of us and all of our doubts will be shown for all to see. That's okay, because you are part of a community that welcomes you; a community of people who always lives in the light and in the understanding that in this light we find the love of God shown to us through the life of Jesus Christ.

From The Alpha To The Omega

Revelation 1:4-8

I learned many things during my New Testament studies that I had to forget some of them in order to remember most of it. (Thank you, Harry, for filling my brain. I mean it.) One of those things I've forgotten but am able to recall is how the term alpha and omega would have been recognized at the time the book of Revelation was written.

Some, or most, or maybe all of you will know that alpha is the first letter of the Greek alphabet and omega is the last. When used in the Euro-Western way of thinking we are urged to interpret its meaning as the first and the last, the beginning and the end. Therefore, once again in the Euro-Western way of thought, according to Revelation God is it, the end, nothing more, that's all there is; no room for any other way of thinking.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

If we read verse 8 in its entirety we'll see that the writer also says that our Lord God is "who is, who was, and who is to come." Please note that in this idea of time there is a beginning and there is no ending. Please also note that there is a middle. Time, in the Jewish way of thinking, is what the scholars call circulinear. Not to be confused with the math term, circulinear time-lines have a beginning, but have no end, rather it circles around as it moves forward. Maybe the best example I can give is that of a coil of wire that goes on forever (think never-ending slinky).

With this understanding of time let's take a look at the Hebrew alphabet, more so how it's used in this passage. When the Hebrew people used their alphabet in this way, alpha and omega, they meant it to be an all-inclusive term. The correct way to interpret this is to say alpha to omega, and everything in between.  When the writer follows the use of the alphabet in this way with their idea of how time is understood what the writer is really saying is that God is an all-inclusive God which has been around since the beginning of time, is here now, and will be here forever.

We combine this thought with the understanding that through the love of our Christ Jesus and his unselfish act at the cross, God's true intention of all of humanity living as one people, or under one kingdom as verse 6 reminds us, is the goal we should all be working towards. It's time we begin doing our best to help fulfill God's intention, don't you think?

Accept all people as God accepts us. Love others in the way Jesus loved. Live in a way that says we are one people.

The Boulder Rolls Downhill

Acts 5:27-32

One thing I have found to be true in my lifetime is that once a movement begins it is unstoppable until that movement is obstructed by a force stronger than the movement itself. When a boulder rolls down a hillside it will not stop until it reaches the bottom of the hill or it hits a tall, wide, strong tree. Once a ball is thrown it won't stop until it reaches the hands of the one catching it or gravity brings it to the ground. Nothing can stop a movement unless it is stronger than the movement itself.

This law of physics, if you want to call it that, can also be applied to social movements. Women were given the right to vote because they, and those who believed in them, kept pushing society until it realized the women were, and always have been, entitled to that right. African-Americans, and those who believed in them, pushed society until it realized that they were always entitled to the same rights as every other human. Currently, society is recognizing that lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transsexual people are also, and have always been, an equal part of our communities.

Such was what the Christianity movement experienced in the first century of its existence. The apostles were teaching about Jesus Christ and they wanted all people to know that there was a new way, a way filled with unconditional acceptance where all people were welcome to be the people they were and know that all they had to do was accept others in the same way. In this way life would become filled with peace and joy.

For their beliefs and teachings these followers of Christ, or apostles, were jailed, beaten, outcast, had all their property seized, and more in an attempt to stop these new Christians from all their false teachings. At least that was the viewpoint of leaders of society at the time. In retrospect we can see how that fight for equality by the early Christians was too powerful to stop and it was not going to meet a force more powerful to stop its momentum. The Christian movement had become a boulder no tree or bottom of the hill could halt.

Christians, at least those who really understand the love of God as shown to us through Jesus, know what it's like to be prejudiced against. We also understand that there is only one way to get through the prejudices being shown in current societal human right issues - unconditional, unabated love.

Be a love-filled boulder and never stop rolling downhill. Not until all people are treated equally, anyway.

Has It Happened Yet?

Psalm 118:14-29

Let me begin by saying it's good to be back. I've honestly missed writing in this journal, but I am very grateful for taking my 2-week vacation from it. It forced me to listen more to what others were saying about their journeys with God and some of those conversations will be held closely in my heart and soul.

If you've been attending church for quite some time you'll note that today's Psalm is filled with many familiar sayings. "The stone that the builders rejected has become the chief cornerstone." "This is the day that the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it." "Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the LORD." Are just a few of the recognizable quotes which come from this particular Psalm. There are so many verses to focus on I actually missed what it was that the Psalm begins with.

"The LORD is my strength and my might; he has become my salvation."

Has become.

Before going into all the ways God brings meaning to his life, the Psalmist admits, if you will, that God is the reason for the good things which are now a part of his life. The only question I have is has this happened for me yet? Have I allowed God deep enough into my life that I can truly say God is my God and I will stop at nothing to praise all the ways my life has changed because of the love I have found with God?

The answer is a resounding yes! I can honestly say the love of God is alive and well in me, and through me, so that I have become a new person and I have found a new life; a new life shown to me through our Christ Jesus.

The journey is not over. In fact, it may just be beginning. More to being truthful, it feels as though the journey may never be over and is always starting anew. Maybe that's what it's supposed to be like - not so much being on a path which has a beginning or an ending, but on a path that always joins with the paths of others, growing wider and straighter as we join together on our common journey towards finding that which brings  us joy and peace.

A journey we travel together towards the love of our God.