Alive In The Spirit

Renewal

2011-12-31T16:08:00.000-08:00

Very likely, by the time you read this, it will be a newyear; 2012. So, let me start off by conforming to centuries of tradition andwish you a happy, prosperous, and healthy New Year.

Every year, people make New Year’s resolutions… to stopsmoking, get more education, lose weight… as many, and as varied resolutions asthere are people (times a WHOLE bunch). Often, the resolutions are the reiterationof resolutions from past years that usually didn’t last more than a couple ofweeks. Perhaps we need to look at resolutions differently.

Let’s change our vocabulary. Change ‘resolution’ to ‘renewal’.

Resolutions depend on ourresolve… which is notoriously weak, completely dependent on our will, and often weakened by stressfulcircumstances. How many times have we resolved to start a new habit (or stop anold one), only to completely abandon the resolution’s good intentions at theslightest bump in the road?

Renewal is a different story altogether. Think about all thesuccessful renewals in your life. You might renew a magazine subscription, autoinsurance, a commitment to charitable giving, or health insurance. In eachcase, you renew a commitment and someone else renews their commitment to you…on an on-going, continuous, and mutually beneficial basis.

As I was thinking and writing about this, I received a Jews forJesus newsletter that completed my musings in a far better way than I hadoriginally planned. I have renewed my support of the Jews for Jesus ministryyear after year and they bless me through their newsletter with their ministrynews, their zeal, their evangelical fire, and their incredible faith in God andJesus Christ as our sovereign Lord. In Remember to Renew, the cover article of the Jews for JesusJanuary 2012 newsletter, Executive Director David Brickner seemed to finish mythoughts about renewal (quite wonderfully, in fact). He also makes a profoundcomment about struggles and disappointments that I found to be just what Ineeded.

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Renewal is not only a matter of the mind, but also of theheart. We remember the past because it builds our faith to recall what God hasdone. We need that faith in order to be transformed and renewed. Renewal is notto occur only once a year with a New Year’s resolution or two. It is a dailyresponse to God as He calls us to present ourselves as living sacrifices as inRomans 12.

“Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view ofGod’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing toGod—this is your true and proper worship. Do not conform to the pattern of thisworld, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be ableto test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.” – Romans 12: 1-2

The problem with living sacrifices is that they tend towriggle off the altar! We need to bind ourselves to that altar with cords oflove and trust in the One who sacrificed Himself for us. We need God’s renewalin our lives to stir up fresh dedication, new commitment, and the kind of faiththat enables us to see a future that is brighter than our past. I want thatrenewal. I want to remain on that altar for Jesus. That is my commitment beforethe Lord…

Maybe this past year has held struggles and disappointments.Perhaps there are physical problems for which there is no relief in sight. Donot lose heart, but remember that even though we are perishing outwardly,inside we are being renewed day by day. And our light momentary affliction isworking a far heavier weight of glory that will last forever and ever (seeCorinthians 4:16-17).

As we enter 2012, I invite you, dear friends, to rememberand renew your relationship with the Lord Jesus.

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To David Brickner’s words, I say: “AMEN!” And if you don’tyet have a relationship with Jesus, I invite you to accept the gift ofsalvation, joy, and peace that Jesus freely offers to every person. That’sEVERY person. That includes you… even if you don’t believe. See me on our campuson Sunday, or contact me if you need to know more.

And, once again: Happy New Year! It’s my prayer that 2012 be the year you begina lifelong renewal in the Lord!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

FYI: Jews for Jesus exists to make the Messiahship of Jesusan unavoidable issue to Jewish people worldwide.

You can find out more about their ministry online at: jewsforjesus.org

Alive in Your Loss – Untitled Hymn

2011-12-17T15:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas is near.

Of course, search engines have little respect for time,place, or situations… focusing, as they do, merely on the keywords you havesupplied them. Loss (read: death) is no respecter of time, place, or situation.And sometimes, a shared holiday tradition will hit us with a sharp reminder ofa loss… be it recent, or something you thought was dealt with long ago.

As Christians, we should never trivialize loss. It’s veryreal. It hurts, and I am sorry for the loss that has brought you here today.

Chris Rice sings a moving song called:

Untitled Hymn (Come to Jesus)

It will touch your heart, and might give you some peace. I’veattached a beautiful video (with lyrics) of the song that Chris Rice firstreleased in 2003.

The song’s lyrics invite us to go to Jesus in a variety ofways. I find that I have come to Jesus singing… I have fallen on Jesus… I havecried to Jesus… I have danced to Jesus… and at the end of MY days, I pray that I will flyto Jesus… and live!

How have you come to Jesus? Be mindful that each way YOUcome to Jesus is reflected out to a lost and hurting world. The world is seekinganswers, reassurance, and salvation… that can only happen when they come toJesus… and live!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

2011 Christmas Card

2011-12-16T03:06:00.000-08:00

Christmas Eve is fastupon us!

This year, we have 4Christmas Eve worship services scheduled (3:30, 5:00, 8:00, and 9:30 pm). ChristmasDay falls on a Sunday this year, so we will have just one worship service (withCommunion) at 10:00 am on Sunday. If youare in our neighborhood, consider yourself invited. You don’t need to be amember, you don’t need to bring anything, you don’t need anything at all… justcome and join us as we give thanks to God for the greatest Christmas gift ofall!

I’ve started handingout my Christmas cards to everybody that I can connect with. This year I’mallowing for more time for this, as I’m hobbled a bit by a torn tendon in myleft ankle. I usually hand out 500 cards each Christmas, so please be patientwith me as I offer you a card… for the fifth or sixth time. I don’t keep alist. As a matter of fact, I will extend my Christmas message to everyone I seeduring this season… at the market, pumping gas, at work, at the post office…everywhere. This blog allows me to connect with a few other people, too. If youare one of them, here is this year’s Christmas card from me:

Front:

Sweet Christmastime…

Inside:

O Come, O Come…
SweetChristmastime to Me

By David Alan Hoag –December 1, 2011
(sung to O Come, O ComeEmmanuel)

O come, o come… sweetChristmastime to me
I want to see mygrandkids trim the tree
I want to walk throughbright streets of light
And like a child renewmy lost delight.
O come…
O come…
Sweet Christmastime tome
And change my heart towhat it ought to be.

O come, o come… sweetChrist child unto Earth
Again renew the promiseof your birth
You come to us inmeekness, not might
That we might move fromdarkness to light.
O come…
O come…
Sweet Christ child untoEarth
In me renew the promiseof your birth.

According to that most accurate of sources, theInternet, the words to the favorite O Come, O Come Emmanuel carol wereoriginally written in Latin in the 12th Century. The author of the words andcomposer to the music of O Come, O Come Emmanuel is unknown. It is, howeverbelieved that the melody was of French origin and added to the text a hundredyears later. The Latin was translated into English by John Mason Neale in 1851.It seems a rather long gestation period for any song, but I suppose they wantedto get it just right! And now, in 2011, I add 2 verses of my own. Enjoy.

Blessings to you and your family, as you celebrateGod’s love at Christmas time.

My prayer is that the peace,love, and joy that come from the salvation through Jesus Christ… be yours atChristmas, and all through the year.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave Hoag

Where’s the Line to See Jesus?

2011-12-04T17:42:00.001-08:00

Becky Kelly has recorded a beautiful song that everyChristian should hear and reflect upon. Listen to her perform, watch the video,and then read Becky’s story about the song.

About the song (from Becky’s site):

While at the mall a couple of years ago, my then four yearold nephew, Spencer, saw kids lined up to see Santa Claus. Having been taughtas a toddler that Christmas is the holiday that Christians celebrate the birthof Jesus, he asked his mom, "where's the line to see Jesus?"

My sister mentioned this to my dad, who immediately becameinspired and jotted words down to a song in just a few minutes. After puttingmusic to the words, and doing a quick recording at home, he received a greatresponse from friends. He sent the song off to Nashville without much response,except for a Christian song writer who suggested adding a bridge at the end ofthe first chorus. My dad then asked if I wanted to record the song to see whatwe could do with it. I listened to the song, made a few changes to the words tomake it flow better, and we headed to Shock City Studios.

It was at the studio where Chris, owner and producer,rewrote the 2nd verse and part of the chorus... with goose bumps and emotionshigh, we were all hopeful and felt like we had something special. The demo wasrecorded in just under 2 hours and sent off again to Nashville... still no response.

Then 2 weeks before Christmas last year, my cousins Greg andRobbie decided to do a video to see what we could accomplish on YouTube. Thefirst day we had 3000 hits and it soared from there. We received e-mails, phonecalls, Facebook messages from people all over asking for the music, CD's,iTunes, anything... we had nothing'. After a couple of meetings with Chrisfollowing the amazing response, we got serious. We headed back into the studiothis past spring... this time with guitars, drums, bass, pianos, choirs... thereal deal.... and here we are today.

Getting iTunes set up, a website put together, and lovingthat thousands upon thousands of Christians have come together... rememberingthe true meaning of Christmas. Out of the mouths of babes come profound truthsthat many adults cannot understand. Hopefully Spencer's observation will causepeople all over to reflect on the love of Jesus, and that one day we will allstand in line to see Him. We are most thankful to our Heavenly Father to havethis chance to share our music with you. Merry Christmas everyone!

Jesus IS the reason we celebrate Christmas. Blessings to youthis Christmas.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

P.S.: Want to support Christian songwriting and Christianartists? Then buy a couple of copies of Becky Kelly’s CD to give as gifts… andmaybe one to enjoy for yourself. Her official site is at:

http://wheresthelinetoseejesus.com/

One final credit: Where's the Line to See Jesus?
Song and Lyrics by Steve Haupt& Chris Loesch.

Back

2011-11-27T03:00:00.000-08:00

Was AFK; now back.

ROFL! I c ur noob face. I’llxlate…

Most of you reading this (unlessmy demographic statistics are way off), are going to need some help. Here’swhat I said:

"I was Away From my Keyboard (not on the computer; doingother things); but I’m back now (from whatever drew me away).

Rolling On the Floor Laughing! (This is hilarious!) I see your ignorant (as in ‘one whodoes not yet know’) face. I will translate…"

“Back...” That’s online gamingshorthand for “I have returned from whatever drew me away.” And I’m backwriting the blog… at least for now.

In any MMORG (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game) you areusually connected with many other people, all interacting, chatting, and workingwith (or against) one another… all within digital worlds of great complexity,danger, and stunning beauty (Like World of Warcraft, RuneScape, Eve, and otherMMORPGs). I’ll get back to this theme in a bit.

Though I was AFK for a while,nobody seemed to take much notice. There were no comments on the blog wonderingwhy I wasn’t posting, and while that’s pretty normal for the blogosphere, thatnobody in our fellowship at Messiah mentioned anything was a bit surprising… andTBH (To Be Honest)… a little disappointing.To be sure… that the blog now posts on Facebook probably accounts for thealmost total lack of comments within the blog. It’s easier to click ‘Like’ thanit is to post a continuation of the topic on the blog.

And with over a billion peopleon Facebook… well, it just makes sense to repost a blog out to a social mediastream. Not that I reach anywhere near 1 billion readers. Hahahaha… I’d behappy knowing I had any impact at all. It’s hard to see an impact withautomated blog statistics hovering near zero all the time.

Now let’s run some numbers:

NationMaster website reports that the Lutheran population amountsto 104 million people throughout the world; this number includes not onlyLutheran Church members, but also people who claim to be Lutheran. If onlyLutheran Church members are considered, this number scales down to about 70million (data provided by the Lutheran World Foundation). Europe is thecontinent which has the highest number of Lutherans: 66 million; in Germanyalone there are about 40 million Lutherans.

Again, according to statisticsprovided by the NationMaster website,there are about 18 million Lutherans in the US. Even though there are nogovernment surveys on religion, a number of studies suggest that there are 9million Lutheran-church members in the US and 9 million Americans that claim tobe Lutheran but are not members of the Lutheran Church.

Wikipedia states that: “As of December 31, 2009,the ELCA (that’s us) had 4,543,037 baptized members, with 2,527,941 of themcounted as active participants in their congregations.”

Therefore, on a post that generates a lot of attention, say 13 hits (100%of this blog’s membership), I manage to reach 0.000005% of Lutherans in the US.LOL! Considered by ANY mathematicalstandard, that’s a whopping 0%. Woot!!!

Now, let’s get back to online gaming. There are currently upwards of 250million people playing online games. Last year, online gaming was a $16billion market…expected to top $30 billion in the next 4 years.

I have written about integrity,honesty, commitment, and faith on several gaming forums (think conversationalthreads). The language on threads is a whole lot more irreverent and raw thanwhat you will find on our church blogs, but participation is off the chart!People are hurting and searching for meaning in their lives. They may notpresent themselves at our church’s doorstep, but they are out there! Perhapsyou aren’t called to enter the unknown country of online gaming, but you couldlisten at work… at the coffee shop… at school… or just standing in a holidaycheckout line. You don’t have to do much more than listen, and then offer asimple invitation for them to come experience the peace, the music, the prayer,the acceptance, and the love of our fellowship in Christ at Messiah (if you arenot a member of Messiah, substitute the name of your church).

YBIC,

Dave

Alive in Our Giftedness

2011-11-26T14:01:00.001-08:00

My friend andawesome guitarist, Jeff Askew, shared this with me on Sunday. Watching Jon Gommplay this piece is like watching somebody juggle 7 balls... it seemsimpossible, yet the performer makes it look so effortless! I'm thankful thatsome people embrace their God-given talents to bless the rest of us withmiraculous moments like this!!!

Follow the God-givendreams of your soul. Often, those that say: “It can’t be done,” are really justsaying: “I’ve never done it that way.”

God has made you soamazing, in fact, that the Psalmist puts it this way in the Bible:

“I praise youbecause I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I knowthat full well.” - Psalm 139:13-15

Stop seeing theworld in terms of limitations. Instead, go out and live up to God’sexpectations!

Your brother inChrist,

Dave

A Thanksgiving Spirit

2011-11-24T03:01:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! Let's try, for one day, to be thankful rather than argumentative. For one day, can we be thankful for our blessings rather than demand that our wants be fulfilled? For one day, can we be thankful for all the people in our lives? For one day, can we love God and love one another? If we can do it for one day, perhaps we would be encouraged to do it for another, and then another, and then… where might thankful hearts take us?

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Where’s God?

2011-08-13T09:56:00.000-07:00

Ever wonder where God is? Does it seem like God never shows up in your life? Do you feel lost or abandoned? Have you given up on finding purpose… for yourself, or even for anything? Well then, I challenge you:

Take 40 minutes to watch the following video with Louie Giglio!

Watch the first 5 minutes, and you will want to see it through to the end. See it through to the end, and you will want to share it. Share it, and you will change a life. Change enough lives, and the world will see… how great is our God!

This is amazing stuff… rocket science, perhaps, but shared in such a way that everyone can grasp the wonder. I urge you… watch this video, as it is wonderful news!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Cussing

2011-07-31T17:21:00.000-07:00

My niece had another interesting post on Facebook:

“Cussing in a Mormon house = NO-NO.”

In my opinion, cussing should be a NO-NO is every house. Why be coarse and profane when you can say the same thing in a much more intelligent manner? Nobody remembers the sludge flowing from the cesspool, but everyone notices the silver thimble floating atop all that sewage!

That was essentially what I posted in response, but then I got to thinking about it. Obviously, she was visiting a Mormon household, and cussed, swore, or otherwise uttered some profanity… and was then told such behavior was unacceptable in their household. While most Christians don’t agree with Mormon doctrine and teaching, you have to admire their integrity in standing up for the values they believe in.

Why do so many Christians allow profanity, cursing, and vulgarities to come out of their mouths? Why do they allow it in their homes? Why do they tolerate it from their children? Why? The Bible tells us not to swear oaths and not to take the Lord’s name in vain… yet, the world around us does just that. If we are honest with ourselves, so do most ALL of us!

Oh, we tell ourselves that it doesn’t mean anything, but deep down, we know… that’s a lie. We claim a freedom of speech, or expression… again, another lie. When we use profanity against another person, it paints them as vile, profane, and less than human. The sad thing is that those same words reflect back on us in exactly the same way. Jesus teaches us to edify and encourage one another… exactly the opposite of what much of the world believes.

I’ve heard from so many people: “It doesn’t mean anything. It’s just the way I am.” Well, it does mean a lot, and you DON’T have to be like that… you can change! I can’t make you change. Changing yourself is difficult; for many impossible. But in Jesus, there is power to do all things.

“But,” you protest, “I don’t cuss, swear, or take the Lord’s name in vain. Well, I try not to, either, but that doesn’t mean that I’m completely without sin. Cussing may actually be the least of your problems. Come on Sunday to experience a fellowship alive in the Spirit of Christ. Come see how life changing a walk with Jesus can be… one step at a time.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Sweetened by the Spirit

2011-07-10T22:14:00.000-07:00

That’s my good friend Carmen Pease wielding the Super Soaker. She is bright, energetic, fun, and a wonderful performer. Couple those traits with the fact that she is on our church staff and you have someone who is a natural for plays, skits, and Vacation Bible School. Like so many people in our fellowship at Messiah, she is alive in God’s Holy Spirit! The other day, I was on the phone with Carmen, and she asked me how things were going. My response is usually: “great!” But on this particular day, it was: “I’m having a challenging day.” Carmen immediately sent me the following in an email. Perhaps it will touch you, like it did me.

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Oh, by the way, thought I would share this with you. I don’t know your situation, but you said that your day has been challenging. I’m sorry.
From Barbara Johnson’s book, Pain is inevitable but misery is optional, So, Stick a Geranium in Your Hat and Be Happy!

“Nothing touches me that has not passed through the hands of my heavenly Father, NOTHING. Whatever occurs, God has sovereignly surveyed and approved. We may not know why (we may never know why), but we do know our pain is no accident to Him who guides our lives. He is in no way surprised by it all. Before it ever touches us, it passes through Him.

Not long ago, Bill and I were driving through Palm Springs, the famous desert resort community. We came upon a roadside stand, and the sign said, “DESERT SWEETENED GRAPEFRUIT.” I thought, that’s the way it is with all of us when we go through a desert experience. That’s the time God uses to sweeten us as we learn to give our problem completely to Him.”

I hope your week is sweeter when it’s done.

Carm

Carmen Pease
Messiah Lutheran Church
Equipping and Connecting Ministry

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And that’s my prayer for you for the week, too… that your week is sweeter when it’s done.
Your brother in Christ,

Dave

In Memoriam

2011-06-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

My brother Mike died in April. Lucky me… I got to be the one to tell my parents the devastating news. In their eighties, and beset by a whole host of medical problems, Mike’s death hit them especially hard.

Mike’s wife and children held a memorial with his cremated remains in Indiana (where Mike’s wife lives with her family); only my youngest sister was able to attend. Pastor Bob immediately offered to host a memorial service for my brother at Messiah, but since the rest of my family is Roman Catholic, they declared THAT “out of the question!” Oh, they spoke of having a memorial for Mike, but nothing happened.

Well, stuff happened, just not memorial planning. Mom had a heart attack and has been in and out of the hospital for the past several months, Dad has great difficulty taking care of himself, and now they have recently been moved out of their house, and into assisted living (that’s another story).

It’s now June. My youngest sister has decided that the memorial for my brother must happen soon. I give her the one day in June that I have an unbreakable commitment I made back in February. Care to guess which day she schedules the memorial service? That, too, is yet another story!

My wife suggested that I write something about Mike that she could then read at the memorial service. I wrote the following poem. I’m not sure why the Spirit moved me to write in Iambic Pentameter, but there it is. Truth be told, I doubt she’ll read it in a Catholic church. She said she might hand out copies at the door. LOL! I think the Catholics would only allow that if it were printed on a Holy Card. There’s no Holy Card, but here’s the poem:

Michael Hoag

For my brother, in Memoriam: June 1, 1952 – April 10, 2011
by David Alan Hoag – June 13, 2011

How do we each recall my brother’s name?
Where, indeed, did he fit into your life?
For all of us, the answer’s not the same.
Do you recall his laughter, or the strife?

Some only saw the upset and the rain
With others, he would laugh the whole day long
Some only heard his music’s sweet refrain
As generously he shared his gift of song.

He definitely heard a different beat.
He oft burned bright; so too, he oft burned wild.
But… the one thing he brought to all he’d meet
Was the pure… innocent… heart of a child.

He admitted his sins; laughed at them, too.
Struggled against them with all of his might.
“How can God love me? How can that be true?”
It didn’t always seem so black and white.

Mike often thought that hell might be his home,
Believing all his sins to be too grave.
The pious cite his sin; ignore their own,
And tell him he was too far gone to save.

In Matthew 12, verse 31 it’s said:
“All sins will be forgiven, but for one…”
“Deny the Holy Spirit, and you’re dead.”
Thus spoke to us God’s one and only Son.

Mike may have sinned (so at least he was taught)…
Oft he would struggle, he oft lost his way;
But, denying God’s Spirit… he did not!
Know without doubt, Mike walks with God today.

As I used to tell my brother, don’t deny the pull of God’s Spirit in your life. No matter what you think you have done, or even what you may have done, God’s Spirit can cleanse you, sanctify you, and make you right and acceptable to God.

That’s great news! It’s wonderful to be secure in the promise that the Holy Spirit will carry us… unblemished… to heaven, to walk with God for eternity. But even better news is that if we accept Christ as our Lord and Savior today, we can walk in God’s Holy Spirit here on Earth; right now! That joy is… unbelievable!

How marvelous it is to be loved beyond all measure! I know who made me; I know who loves me; I know who saved me; I know who strengthens me; I know who wants an eternal relationship with me; and I know who is coming for me! I’ll see at worship, as we celebrate that knowing!!!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Judgment Day? Not Quite Yet.

2011-05-24T03:21:00.000-07:00

My friend George Velarde wrote on Facebook:

“Kirk Cameron is on TBN talking about the day of "Judgment" Christianity is becoming a giant joke; the hypocrisy is ridiculous! Not one person has not violated the 10 commandments.”

And then after a few people commented, he added:

“I remember the people I've worked with that have told me I'm going to hell or flat out "enjoy hell". My deal is that heaven is supposed to be for everybody and god is love but people forget all that when they are judging their fellow man.”

George… Christ warns us about false prophets. He also criticized the church leaders of his day, calling them hypocrites. Christ tells us how to live our lives: “Love God, and love one another.” To a whole lot of self-proclaimed Christians, Christ will someday say: “I don’t know you.”

I know how you feel, my brother, I was exactly where you are a few years ago: religion was a fraud! Until I met Jesus, nothing could change my mind. I never met Jesus growing up in the Roman Catholic Church (not saying you can’t, just that I never did). I never met Jesus where there was intolerance, hatred, bigotry, or condemnation. I never met Jesus where there were rules, regulations, doctrines, traditions, or edicts of man. The world loves to lump every church, congregation, sect, or group of crazies that even acknowledges Jesus Christ all together under the same label… as all being Christians. Sadly, many who populate Christian churches don’t really know Christ at all. For many, it’s a tradition they grew up with, it makes them feel good on Sunday, but it’s more of an obligation than a joyful yearning to worship.

To be honest, nothing I can say, all my logic and passion, and even two thousand years of evidence will change your opinion. And honestly, your opinion doesn’t matter… it’s your heart that matters. I can’t change your heart, either, but Jesus can… you just need to meet Him. That’s actually what Jesus commanded his disciples to do… go out and introduce Jesus to a hurting and broken world. Far too often, that introduction to Jesus gets lost in machinations of the church, the egos of church leaders, or the implication that you somehow don’t measure up to church standards.

I invite you to come with me and meet Jesus. You are absolutely right when you say that ALL have sinned. Come meet the Jesus I know… the Jesus that has paid for ALL of our sins. Come meet the Jesus that stands at the door to your heart, George, and knocks. Can you hear Him? He won’t break down that door against your will; as a matter of fact, the latch is on your side. It’s your choice. Will you let Him into YOUR heart? Jesus brings life… that you may have life more abundantly; that in a relationship with Him you might enjoy peace, and hope, and love.

So again, I invite you to come meet Jesus… in the fellowship and acceptance of other believers whose study, prayer, and worship are centered on Jesus. It is through a continuing walk with Jesus that we grow closer to God. To you, George, and to anybody else who hears the faint knocking at their heart, I say: “Come, let us reason together.”

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Before You Go To Sleep

2011-05-21T00:55:00.000-07:00

Yesterday...

My friend, Dr. Paul Francis Lanier, Senior Pastor of Hope Community Church, Winston-Salem, NC wrote:

Before you go to sleep, Pray in the Spirit. Don’t carry fears of flesh into your sleep, where they will move deeper into your spirit and create your mindset for the next morning. Release Any and All Things from your Heart into His Hands. He Adores You . . . Rest in that.+

Loss

2011-05-11T17:28:00.000-07:00

On Facebook, my friend Michele Magsaysay Ehrenberg wrote:

“...going to the cemetery today to bury my mom... :( Lord, please hold me!”

Oh, Michele… my heart and my prayers reach out to you. I just lost my younger brother on April 10th, so I can relate to your loss. As brothers and sisters in Christ, we know that Jesus saves us… and through Him we have eternal life. In John 11:1-44, Jesus reassures us about the life we have in Him as he raises Lazarus from the grave. It seems, though, that most of us are like Martha, and we don’t fully grasp what Jesus is saying to us either, when (in verses 25-26):

“Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me will never die. Do you believe this?””

But as human beings, and very much like Mary and Martha, we also feel the pain and the grief of separation when a loved one dies. Jesus knows this about us, too. And sharing our life with us, sharing our joys and our sorrows, he shares our grief, as well. Jesus was so moved by the grief of Mary and Martha over the death of their brother Lazarus, that in verse 35,

“Jesus wept.”

It’s natural for us to weep over a loss. To those of us who continue living, the death of a loved one is a great sorrow… if only for the immediate earthly separation that occurs. Knowing that Jesus is there to bear the brunt of your grief (if you let Him) is a source of great comfort and strength during a trying time. We know that by believing in Him, Jesus will raise us like Lazarus from the dead, too. More than that, in verse 40, Jesus also promises us an everlasting relationship with God (heaven, if you will), when he says:

“Did I not tell you that if you believe, you will see the glory of God?”

It was tough for Mary and Martha to bury their beloved brother, Lazarus. It’s just as tough for us to bury anyone we love dearly. It was hard for Mary and Martha, standing at the grave, to see Jesus as the resurrection and the life. Is it any easier for us, as we stand at a graveside?

Who is important in your life? Who do you want to live, and NOT die? Who will come to Jesus after experiencing YOUR belief in Jesus? We are human, and therefore not perfect, so we weep at our losses, we get angry that God didn’t save our loved one, we accuse God; Mary and Martha sure did! You and I probably will, too. As we follow Christ, we still struggle with all those things, but in constantly turning toward Jesus, we believe, we love, and we rejoice… in the life we live in Jesus!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Rules and Guilt

2011-03-26T19:26:00.000-07:00

One of my nieces is fun to follow on Facebook (to be honest, a lot of people are). She has grown up with technology, and is quite well digitally connected; hardly a thought escapes her that is not immediately posted. If you are thinking that you just don’t get the whole posting-every-thought-on-Facebook thing, you are probably older than 30. Hahahaha! This seems to be the eternal burden of each new generation: that they are not understood by the older generations.

Now, my niece is in college, a whole lot of fun, and (like most of my relatives) a practicing Roman Catholic. At Lent, this means giving up stuff, and fasting. Most Catholics believe that fasting during Lent means no meat on Fridays… even though the US Bishops rescinded that rule for American Catholics.

Her recent Facebook post made me laugh:

“Man do I hate Fridays during Lent! This ‘no meat’ rule sucks!”

After my chuckle, I posted the following short reply:

Ask yourself... did God institute the no meat rule, or is it an arbitrary construct of religion? Jesus came to free us from religion, so we could have a real relationship with God. Jesus gave us simple commands: "Love God and love your neighbor as yourself." Religion, churches, and self-proclaimed holy leaders give us Lenten rules, food restrictions, and guilt. Lent and Easter are a time to rejoice... your debt has been paid! Jesus paid the ultimate price to free us from the bondage of guilt, and sin, and death. You can choose to be controlled by centuries of man-made church law, restrictions, and guilt... or you can simply follow Jesus, and be free... and eat what you want on Friday.

Now, I don’t have any problem with anybody who is led by the Holy Spirit to fast… but eating fish on Friday instead of eating meat has never really struck me as much of a fast. Besides, trumpeting to everyone that you can’t eat meat on Friday, or bemoaning such a sacrifice, flies in the face of what Jesus had to say about fasting:

“When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show others they are fasting. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to others that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
Matthew 6:16-18

I’m not necessarily picking on Catholics here. If you belong to any church, whether it’s Catholic, Lutheran, Baptist, or whatever… you live by some arbitrary constructs of religion. You have doctrines, traditions, and rituals that are mostly man-made. I’m not saying that they are all bad, I just pose the question:

Do doctrines, traditions, and rituals keep you from being the light in the world? Do they help, or impede an effective walk with Christ?

On Wednesday nights during Lent, we discuss these types of questions. Come join us in some rousing discussions as we prepare to celebrate Easter.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Right Prescription

2011-03-12T23:28:00.000-08:00

Crammed right up against the 91/57 freeway interchange is an area of tenement apartments known as Cypress Street. The rumbling noise of passing freeway vehicle traffic is a constant roar that makes concentration a challenge. Gang pressures and activities are a fact of life for those living here, as is poverty, crime, unemployment, and truancy. Messiah sponsors a ministry into the Cypress Street area that is aimed at involving our high school youth directly with the children of the area. The idea is to bring play, music, and a regular study of God’s Good News to the children of this neighborhood.

Mike and Meg Nguyen are a high-energy couple. Both are quick to laugh, and their smiles seem ever-present… especially when they are engaging the high school youth, or the kids of Cypress Street. Both are doctors that work 80 hours a week. Mike’s a surgeon, and Meg works with infectious diseases. They’ve been married for 4 ½ years, and have only been a part of our fellowship here at Messiah for about 2 years; almost as long as they’ve been helping with the Cypress Street ministry. In fact, Trevor invited them to participate in Cypress Street before they formally became partners in ministry with us here at Messiah.

They let me ride along on a Tuesday evening to experience their involvement in the Cypress Street ministry first-hand.

As we pulled up, the look-out’s shout of “They’re here!” became an overwhelming refrain as children seemed to appear from everywhere. For the next half hour, Mike, Meg, Trevor, and all the high-school youth were in constant motion… at play with the kids of the neighborhood. Some of the play seemed somewhat organized, but mostly, I watched what I could only later describe as a sort of random chaotic joy; with Mike and Meg at the center of most of it. The nightly format was simple enough: designed to engage the kids in play and music, to give them a safe respite from the pressures of their lives, and designed to bring the Word of God into their lives in a meaningful and personal way.

Although Mike admits to it “being Meg’s ministry more than mine”, it belies the passion and enthusiasm he pours out on the kids. Noting the chilly night, Mike mentioned that “Sometimes I don’t feel like going out, but then I do, and I always feel better; glad I came!” When asked why he’s involved in the Cypress Street ministry, he emphasized: “I’m involved with the kids! It’s easy to see how hugs and attention make a difference in kids’ lives. The best moments are seeing the long-term potential to change the course of the lives of children that… seem predestined only for a life of gangs, violence, poverty, and hopelessness.”

Meanwhile, Meg has been a magnet for girls since we got out of the vehicles. She speaks Spanish, and fluidly moves from English to Spanish when the situation calls for it. Meg is at home with these young girls, and they respond to her love and her passion for them like flowers respond to sunlight. Meg confides that “It’s a ministry that fits my passion!” Though there are there are hundreds of moments with the kids that touch her heart, Meg insists that “The best moments are when the kids ‘get it’; when they understand a lesson, when they see… more.” Meg likes that she gets a lot out of prepping the lessons, and she delights in being “someone the girls can talk to… simply by being a friend.”

What I saw… were kids who hunger for acceptance, connection, and love.
What I saw… were Mike and Meg (and the Cypress Street team) bringing a genuine love.
What I saw… was the kids accepting them because their love is genuine.
What I saw… were kids opening up and making real connections with them because they come back week after week, month after month, year after year!

I saw… Mike and Meg bring an infectious level of enthusiasm and excitement to the kids.
I saw… energy and excitement from the kids during the play time.
I saw… joy from the kids during the singing.
I saw… focus from the kids during the Bible study and prayer time.
I saw… a young couple that mentors our youth by example.
I saw… a pair of doctors who are the right prescription for a hurting world.

Week after week, Cypress Street sees Christ… in the hearts of Mike and Meg!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

P.S.: The RISE newsletter is coming on Easter. Don’t miss it!

Daring to be Passionate

2011-03-11T21:52:00.000-08:00

Recently, I sat down with Frank and Oralle D’Orsi to ask them a few questions about their involvement in Messiah’s Sunday school program. I’ve known Frank and Oralle (say: or-ah-lee) for most of the 16 years that they’ve been a part of our fellowship here at Messiah, so I thought I’d be done with them in 5 or 10 minutes. To be honest, they always seemed like background people to me; always serving, but more in the background than out in front. An hour later, I had developed a new respect for their commitment, their dedication, and their passion.

Oralle is such a great Sunday school teacher; I was surprised to learn that she was nervous and scared when she first joined the program 4 years ago. That surprised me, since Oralle has taught special education and then pre-school since 1972. Oralle emphasized that the call to Children’s Ministry came: “When the Holy Spirit placed it on my heart first.” So when the Director of Children’s Ministry asked her to be an aide, she agreed. That immediately turned into team-teaching.

Frank, who is a teacher/trainer in his own right, started in the Sunday school program “just to help Oralle.” According to Frank, working with children was “definitely a move outside my comfort zone.” Today, however, he’s very comfortable working with the kids. Time and exposure have led to an easy familiarity with the kids in their class. When asked what he likes best about the team teaching, Frank immediately broke into a big grin and said: “I love the opportunity to learn from Oralle… and I enjoy how well we compliment each other in the classroom.”

Later, I posed the same question to Oralle. She, too, smiled as she immediately replied: “I love to see Frank around the kids; how he interacts with them, bonds with them, and how he mentors and encourages them.” Oralle also added that she and Frank really enjoy… “The connection they make with the kids and the look on their faces when they ‘get it’.” After reflecting a bit, she went on to say: “The kids help me. I pray that I’m helping them. I want them to be excited about coming to Sunday school every week. Along with the lessons, they are learning to put forth the effort, and to be respectful… all in a fun environment.”

Today, Oralle and Frank team teach every week for Messiah’s Sunday school program. Although they have no kids of their own, or perhaps because of it, they pour their intensity into the kids in their Sunday school classes. Both of them agree: “It’s important for the kids to see your passion for God!”

Somewhere in the middle of interviewing Frank and Oralle, I realized something that I hadn’t ever taken in before. Here was a couple extremely comfortable in their passion and joy for one another! They really do compliment each other. Oralle nestles into Frank as they sit together, not out of any need, but because they fit together so perfectly. Their passion and joy are so infectious; I wondered aloud just how long had they been married? They were excited that this August would mark 25 years of marriage for them. And with that, they asked me if they could share another of their great passions and involvements at Messiah.

It turns out that they have been involved with the Marriage Retreats at Messiah since 2003, and they’ve been on the planning committee for the marriage retreats since 2005. They both share a real passion for planning the retreats, and find it a great honor and privilege to work on, and be part of, the marriage retreats with Pastor Ron.

It was impossible to stem the tide of passion and enthusiasm that this new topic had released in this special couple! They wanted me to know that the marriage retreats are for all couples… whether you’ve been married 4 months, or 40 years. Their overwhelming passion for this topic swept me away to a marriage retreat that was not just a ‘marriage retreat’, but was about meeting new people, knowing your spouse better, learning new things, having fun, and sharing in meaningful sessions and breakouts. They painted a picture of a secluded retreat environment that was comfortable, and that gave couples the time and the opportunity to share, to open up to each other, and to ultimately grow closer. The retreat format is fun, not forced, and on the final day most of the couples renew their vows. Wow! Are you ready to sign up, yet?!?

If you want more out of fellowship at Messiah, get involved, seek your calling, and like Frank and Oralle… take a step on faith by daring to be passionate!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

P.S.: This entry will appear in a newsletter called RISE; look for it on Easter.

You Are More

2011-02-27T01:30:00.000-08:00

How do you think of Satan? If you think of him at all you probably conjure up an image of a powerful and frightening demon. Indeed, the Bible paints a picture of just that sort of bad dude.

“Be alert and of sober mind. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour.”
1 Peter 5:8

When a lion is on the hunt, it roars to scare its prey, but it moves in to devour its prey only after silently stalking it. Every day you and I are being stalked by the one who is the enemy of God. He will whisper lies to us. He uses shame, regret, anger, envy, greed, and unforgiveness as some of his weapons. He will try to convince us that we are unacceptable to God… that we are too broken for God to love… that we are nothing.

But nothing could be farther from the truth! I love the fact that God inspires musicians and singers to proclaim the Good News of our salvation and redemption in ways that touch our hearts and cause Satan to flee. He has no power over us when Christ is with us!

I was so uplifted by the music and lyrics of this Tenth Avenue North song that I decided to share it with you. Enjoy the video. I’ve included the lyrics because I like to sing along.

You Are More

by Tenth Avenue North

There's a girl in the corner
With tear stains on her eyes
From the places she's wandered
And the shame she can't hide

She says, "How did I get here?
I'm not who I once was.
And I'm crippled by the fear
That I've fallen too far to love"

But don't you know who you are,
What's been done for you?
Yeah don't you know who you are?

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

Well she tries to believe it
That she's been given new life
But she can't shake the feeling
That it's not true tonight

She knows all the answers
And she's rehearsed all the lines
And so she'll try to do better
But then she's too weak to try

But don't you know who you are?

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

'Cause this is not about what you've done,
But what's been done for you.
This is not about where you've been,
But where your brokenness brings you to

This is not about what you feel,
But what He felt to forgive you,
And what He felt to make you loved.

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

You are more than the choices that you've made,
You are more than the sum of your past mistakes,
You are more than the problems you create,
You've been remade.

You've been remade
You've been remade.
You've been remade.
You've been remade.

Don’t forget… you are more. In Christ, you are remade to be sooooo much more!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Word Made Flesh

2011-01-03T19:23:00.000-08:00

I find it interesting and exhilarating when I notice the Holy Spirit at work in my life. Today, I got a re-post of a blog entry from a couple of people on Facebook. With the deluge of Facebook traffic at this time of year, I might not have even noticed, except… both of the posts seemed to credit the piece to different authors. In fact, people were just attributing the piece to those friends who passed it along to them. The copyright cop (or perhaps the Holy Spirit) in me forced me to track down the source, the blog, and the author. In doing so I discovered a Spirit filled, intelligent, and thought provoking blog called Sarcastic Lutheran. Along the way, I read the piece, and found it awesome!

The author, Nadia Bolz-Weber, is the mission developer for House for All Sinners and Saints in Denver, Colorado. They are an urban liturgical community with a progressive yet deeply rooted theological imagination. Her bio states simply: “I’m Nadia.” Her interests include: “coffee, Martin Luther, Nick Drake, tattoos, emerging church, Christian Mystics, My kids.”

With Nadia’s kind permission, here is her blog entry for January 3, 2011:

Word made Flesh - And the Indignity of Having a Human Body

So, just to get it out of the way, I didn’t get what I wanted for Christmas. No, not an ipad or World Peace. Anyone who knows me well knows that what I really wanted for Christmas was a brand new back since mine is wrecked. The disk between my L5 and S1 vertebrae is severely degenerated which means at the age of 41 can’t stand for more than 20 minutes without being in pain. I mention this because in our Gospel reading for today we hear that In the beginning was the Word and The Word was with God and the Word was God And the Word became flesh and lived among us. In short: God decided to have …of all things…a human body.

We Christians have along history of finding this idea disturbing. There was an early Christian heresy called Docetism and I’m not totally convinced that I myself would not have been a docetist given the opportunity. You see, they were so certain that spirit and flesh could not exist as One that they convinced themselves that Jesus didn’t really have a human body…it just seemed that he had a body. Docetists claimed that Jesus only appeared to be a physical being. And I get the impulse behind docetism because really, no self-respecting God would become a human when being human means being irretrievably fragile. What can it mean that God slipped into the vulnerability of skin and was made flesh? Seems a lousy idea in a way, given the very sloppy and broken reality of our physical lives as humans. Our bodies bruise and decay and sag insistently toward the earth so why in the world would God not spare God’s self the indignity of having things like sweat glands and the hiccups?

And besides, having a body is an emotionally complicated thing for us, so why wouldn’t we want a “spirituality” which transcends our broken physical reality. But when we are tempted to think that spirituality equals transcending the physical world of things and bodies we might remember that in Jesus we see that a physical life is a spiritual life…

John’s gospel bears witness to a sensual God. Jesus washed human feet, smelled perfume, and tasted abundant wine. He used spit and dirt to heal a blind man, his gut churned when he looked upon the hungry crowds. Salty tears ran down his face. He smelled the stink of death on Lazarus his friend. Jesus’ very own flesh tore when he was beaten and crucified and when he rose from the dead he told Thomas to touch his wounded side, which was not perfected, but bore the scars of having lived. Then, as one of his final acts on Earth he ate grilled fish on a beach. These experiences of the body are not things to be Spiritually transcended …they are perhaps the very things in which we find Christ.

The Psalmist reminds us that God knit us together in our mother’s womb and that we are fearfully and wonderfully made. Of course I see at least 2 barriers to really really believing this. Firstly there is the fact that as a middle aged woman my body seems to be deteriorating right before my eyes. How wonderfully and fearfully made is a body which ages, or grows fat, or develops cancer or no longer produces insulin? The other barrier to believing our bodies are fearfully and wonderfully made is that we are literally bombarded by messages otherwise from every billboard we see or commercial we hear. Convincing you that a) your body is bad and b) your body can be “perfect” if you buy a certain product…and let there be no mistake, this is a billion dollar industry.

Yet I wonder if maybe in the incarnation God has done nothing less than baptized all human flesh. Baptized it, not made it into our version of perfect. Perfection as we picture it and as it relates to human bodies is impossible. And perhaps the striving for an impossible perfection is a profound distraction from the way in which we are children born of God. Because as we know, the perfect is the enemy of the good.

And even God, when finished creating the physical world including the human form called it good. not perfect mind you, but good. so as we on this 2nd day of the year make our resolutions about losing weight or gaining muscle or lowering cholesterol which are all perfectly fine, let us remember that we are born of God and made Children of God and have no business calling what God pronounced good anything but good. Because if the Word became flesh and lived among us ~ then despite our botoxic quest for the illusion of perfection, God's creation is good.

So this week I invite you to take notice every time you see or hear a message about body improvement. Every pill, or exercise machine, or special gym membership, or tanning bed… every liposuction clinic and celebrity endorsed diet plan. All of it. Notice the obsession our culture has with stretching and tanning and increasing and decreasing our flesh into submission to some sort of bizarre ideal. Then in contrast, notice every time this week that you see or hear this: And the Word became flesh and lived among us, in this we have seen God’s glory, full of grace and truth…you have received the power to be Children of God. Through the fullness of God’s Word made flesh you have received grace upon grace.

That is a different message entirely. In other words, our youth-obsessed body-improvement culture in which we find ourselves tells us that we can avoid any appearance of our own mortality through the right combination of elective surgery and Pilates and in the end this is nothing but a simple fear of death itself. But what God tells us in the birth, life, death and resurrection of Christ is that we need not fear our mortality in the first place because it simply is not the final word. Death has no sting when it cannot separate us from the love of God in Christ. So we need not fear it. nor deny it.

So Jesus came and in his almost disturbingly physical existence showed us what God looks like, not in some ethereal alternate spiritual plane but right here in the midst of our physical, embodied earthy reality. Jesus said here’s what being born of God looks like… it looks like not worrying about what we're to eat or drink; like loving the bodies of other people who, like us, will die; like touching human flesh as if it's holy instead of worrying that it's unclean, like breaking bread and drinking wine with all the wrong people.

This Christianity stuff is not a religion of disembodied spirituality at all. This is a religion of Word made flesh, of God revealed in the vulnerability of newborn flesh in a cradle and in heartbreak of broken flesh on a cross. So if God saw fit to wear our native garb should we not bless and care for our own flesh? Should we not have concern for any violation or starvation or trafficking of any human bodies as that which God took on to be with us?

As we enter the New Year full of optimism and resolution let us remember that there is a reality beyond our individual self-improvement. The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us, and we were given grace upon grace to become children of God and perhaps in doing so we are now flesh become Word. Word for a hurt and broken and beautiful world. You as Christ’s body are no longer about the fear or the denial of death but about life and life abundant. You as Christ’s body are becoming flesh made Word, being made into God’s loving intention for the world God created. In the name of Jesus, amen.

If you want more of Nadia, you will find her blog at:

http://sarcasticlutheran.typepad.com/

I love the thought of “You as Christ’s body are becoming flesh made Word, being made into God’s loving intention for the world God created.” What a great thought for the new year!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

2010 Christmas Card

2010-12-24T02:27:00.000-08:00

It’s officially Christmas Eve! I’ve already been handing out my Christmas cards to everybody that I can connect with, and today I’ll try to connect with everyone that comes to celebrate Christmas with us at Messiah. We have 6 services scheduled (3, 4:30, 6, 7:30, 9:30, and 11 pm). If you are in our neighborhood, consider yourself invited. You don’t need to be a member, you don’t need to bring anything, you don’t need anything at all… just come and join us as we give thanks to God for the greatest Christmas gift of all!

I made 500 Christmas cards. Each one is lovingly hand-crafted… each one is a unique and special gift from me. I, of course, create the content of the card… find some photo/art/graphic… rotate, format, position, and proof… to create a master that is copier ready. I load a heavy ream of paper (500 sheets!!!) into the copy machine, and then… pray that all 500 copy perfectly, and without a paper jam. What makes each card unique is that I hand-fold each and every one; no two are alike! It wasn’t until after I had completed my carpal-tunnel syndrome folding task that someone on the church staff informed me that the new copiers can also produce folded copies, too! Next year, your card won’t be quite so unique.

If you didn’t connect with me… probably because you are out of the area… here is this year’s Christmas card from me:

Front:

Putting Up A Really Big Light Display

Inside:

Emmanuel

by David Alan Hoag – December 17, 2010

Did you see it… a couple of weeks ago past;

That bright streaking trail in the sky?

With colors that quite put a rainbow to shame,

And zigzagged impossibly high?

It was on the TV; it was in all the news.

The images… startling and bright,

Were glowing and twisting with shimmering hues,

As sunset dissolved into night.

Though it looked otherworldly, I knew what it was;

It wasn’t invaders from space.

Just a missile and payload splitting the dusk,

From the Vandenberg Air Force base.

That I knew the exhaust from the boosters and fuel

And the cold, shifting winds on high

Made ice-crystal prisms; it didn’t decrease

The beauty I saw in the sky.

At Christmas, there are those who seek hard to explain

The Child and the virginal birth.

Their ‘cause’ and their ‘science’ have little ‘effect’

For God who is “with us” on Earth.

Christ suffered our weakness, and He suffered our pain;

He came so that we may be free.

This Christmas embrace Him, step onto His path,

Meeting God in eternity.

Blessings to you and your family, as you celebrate God’s love at Christmas time.

My prayer is that the peace, love, and joy that come from the salvation through Jesus Christ… be yours at Christmas, and all through the year.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave Hoag

Social Media Christmas

2010-12-19T21:05:00.000-08:00

From the Thrive Church in Texas. In this age of Social Media, some very creative person pondered… how would the birth of Jesus be told if it happened today? I found it well done, and quite touching in places. If you are connected with social media, I’m sure it will resonate with you. I love the humanity of a couple coping with the incomprehensible. What about you? What touched you?

Your brother in Christ,
Dave

Standing Beside a Bomb

2010-12-12T14:26:00.000-08:00

Don Miller is an author, mentor, and speaker. His book, Blue Like Jazz, spent more than 40 weeks on the New York Times Bestsellers List. Don’s most recent book is called A Million Miles in a Thousand Years and it’s about how the elements of a great story can help us understand the elements of a great life. That book also hit the New York Times Bestsellers List, and inspired corporations to work with Don to improve employee engagement in their corporate vision, and customer understanding of the corporations overall narrative.

Don lives and works in Portland, Oregon and also writes a blog. I’m reprinting one of his recent posts here. Whatever your background or persuasion, you need to read and consider the following very carefully!

Thoughts on Standing Beside a Bomb in a Crowded Square

By Donald Miller

A few nights ago, twelve friends and I attended the lighting of the Portland Christmas tree in Pioneer Square. My friends had all flown in for Thanksgiving, and we decided to join ten-thousand others who walked from all over downtown for the event. What we didn’t know is the spot where we squeezed into the crowd was 25 feet from a van filled with what a young man believed were six, fifty-gallon barrels of explosive material. As you know, the FBI had staged a sting, and as the young man made a call on his cell phone from the train station across town that would detonate the bomb, we were singing Christmas carols well within the blast zone. We didn’t hear about the threat until the following morning, and didn’t even know how close we were to the bomb until I saw a picture in the paper, taken only a few steps from the corner of Pioneer Square where we had been standing.

I’ve not talked about Islam or terrorism on this site at all. But reading about the young man, and hearing the talking heads discuss the threat on the internet has me wondering what we are really up against. Is it Islam? I don’t think it is. I think it’s extremism. And extremism takes many shapes and forms. For instance, the Mosque in Corvalis, Oregon where the young man worshiped was burned by arsonists two days later, but this was not called terrorism, it was called arson. And a middle-aged white man, angry about high taxes gassed up his plane and flew it into an IRS building in Austin, Texas last year, but the news was quick to report that this was was not a terrorist attack. Really? Sure looked like one to me. Why weren’t tons of middle-aged white guys who have small planes and listen to Glenn Beck sent to Cuba for water boarding?

I don’t think our enemy is specifically a religious enemy, though I do believe some religions are false. I think our enemy is extremism, extreme black and white thinking, an extreme belittling of other opinions, an extreme and insecure demonization of others, an extreme desire to control, and to make the mistake of thinking extremism is produced only in the Muslim community is ignorance. Extremism is a fall of man problem, a human problem, not just a religious problem. There are liberal extremists, conservative extremists, Calvinist extremists, humanitarian extremists and so on and so on. Here are a few marks of an extremist. Feel free to add to the list:

1. Extremists think in black-and-white absolutes. This does not mean there are not black and white absolutes, it only means the extremists can not see the world in color, the way the world actually exists. Ideas are either right or wrong, good or bad, and there is no neutral territory. You and I may say murder is wrong but eating broccoli is neutral, but an extremist wants to make a moral statement about broccoli and murder both.

2. People who do not agree with an extremist are perceived as threats. An extremist is very uncomfortable living in a world where people can just get along. Instead, they break people down into those who are for them and against them, with us or against us. Extremists believe people are out to get them and so see the people around them as enemies or allies.

3. Extremists do not admit they are wrong and are unwilling to consider another point of view.

4. Extremists are not passive. Extremists are aggressive. Extremists strike first, often out of ignorance or without understanding what they are striking out against. But they do strike out. They react in extremes.

5. Extremists believe, without question, their view is morally superior. They see themselves as right and strong and their enemies as wrong and weak and worth persecution, belittlement and even acts of violence.

And these are just a few loose characterizations of extremists.

I should also say that extremism is not without it’s causes. Many Muslim extremists are reacting to the outright oppression of their people around the world, or the afore mentioned immorality around us here in the west. But where a normal person may have an objective view of such things, and perhaps choose appropriate channels to affect social change, an extremist wishes to eradicate the other view completely.

I should also add there is plenty of extremism in the evangelical church. Whether it’s burning a Koran, or a pastor standing before his congregation belittling other pastors, we see heavy to light extremism in churches all over America every Sunday. An extremist pastor has made a theological stand that is absolutely right, morally superior, and has very real enemies that must be eradicated. An extremist pastor is dividing up everybody into the with us group and the against us group. Some of this has merit, but be certain this is a manifestation of an extremist personality filtered through a theological grid as justification. Lets not be confused. Jesus had very real enemies, and they ended up killing Him even as He cried out to God asking for their pardon. That is a very different stance than the modern war monger waving a Jesus flag.

People who are drawn to extremism are drawn to its feel of strength, it’s moral absolutes, it’s clear definition of enemies and so forth. Extremism paints a world with bold, straight lines, in which one can step into the role of hero or warrior with ease.

But aren’t there Christian reasons for extremism? Absolutely. Biblical Christian extremism, though, looks very different. Biblical Christian extremism looks like being wrongly imprisoned without fighting it, or being stoned to death, or being crucified, or going hungry bringing food to the starving, or crossing a bridge in Selma, Alabama, or turning water into wine for a tipsy wedding party, or leaving your job to bring Christ to the hurting and so on and so on. Christian extremism is willing to die for people, not demonize them to validate their belittlement and oppression.

So, can we just stop saying we are at war with terrorism and start admitting we are at war with extremism, be it a muslim kid or a middle-aged AM radio junkie? Can we just stop calling some pastors provocative and start calling them extremists? And can we answer extremism the way Christ did, by dying for the ones who know not what they do? That’s the kind of extremism I could get behind.

If you want to look into Don’s blog, you can find it at:

http://donmilleris.com/

Please… just don’t forget where this blog is. LOL!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

That Seems Familiar

2010-11-30T18:03:00.000-08:00

A friend sent me a collection of quotes from posters, greeting cards, many other sources. You’ve probably heard most of them repeated by a friend, an acquaintance, or a pastor (in a sermon). You might even have seen one on a refrigerator magnet. Though they might be familiar, most of them state a Biblical truth in a simple (and often profound) way. Some of them might even provoke you to delve deeper into God’s Word. It could happen!

I hope they inspire and uplift your week.

Don’t let your worries get the best of you;
remember, Moses started out as a basket case.
Some people are kind, polite, and sweet-spirited
until you try to sit in their pews.
Many folks want to serve God,
but only as advisors.
It is easier to preach ten sermons
then it is to live one.
When you get to your wit’s end,
you’ll find God there.
Opportunity may knock once,
but temptation bangs on the door forever.
God Himself doesn’t propose to judge a man
until he is dead.
So why should you?
Peace starts with a smile.
Coincidence is when God
chooses to remain anonymous.
Don’t put a question mark
where God put a period.
God doesn’t call the qualified,
He qualifies the called.
God promises a safe landing,
not a calm passage.
The Will of God never takes you to where
the Grace of God will not protect you.
If God is your co-pilot, swap seats!
Prayer: Don’t give God instructions,
just report for duty!
Life isn’t about waiting for the storm to pass,
it’s about learning to dance in the rain.
You can tell how big a person is
by what it takes to discourage him.
The task ahead of us is never as great
as the power behind us.

Did I include one of your favorites? If you have a favorite and it was not among those I published, post your favorite in a comment. If this brightened your day, pass the link to the blog along to a friend.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Give Me Your Eyes

2010-11-20T21:34:00.000-08:00

Have you ever stood in a courtroom and found yourself convicted of a crime? It’s an awful feeling when the judge brings the gavel down *BANG* and declares “GUILTY.” Perhaps the closest you’ve come to being convicted is watching a police or courtroom drama on television. Many civil cases involve contract law… where the convicted party failed to live up to a contractual agreement.

Often we Christians think of sin as something to forgive in others. We get so focused on the sliver in our neighbor’s eye, we see right past the log in our own eye. Sin is, by definition, ‘missing the mark.’ When we miss the mark, and when we recognize (and admit) that we missed the mark, we stand convicted!

I’m surprised how often the poetry, rhythms, and artistry of Christian singers and songwriters I hear on the radio will convict me! I heard Brandon Heath performing ‘Give Me Your Eyes’ which he had written with Jason David Ingram, and did it ever convict me!

Yes, it’s through God’s grace that we are saved, but we know when we fall short. When we recognize it… when we admit it… we feel convicted. If we are walking with Jesus, he picks us up, dusts the sin off of us, and invites us to continue our journey forward... a little wiser, perhaps a little better, and hopefully a lot closer to God.

Here is a powerful video of the song. If you are reading this on your Facebook page, you can’t see the video. Maybe if you complain to Facebook, that will change, but for now, you’ll have to follow the link to see it. Happily, the lyrics CAN be included.

Give Me Your Eyes

by Brandon Heath and Jason David Ingram

Looked down from a broken sky
Traced out by the city lights
My world from a mile high
Best seat in the house tonight
Touched down on the cold black tar
Hold on for the sudden stop
Breathe in the familiar shock
Of confusion and chaos
All those people going somewhere
Why have I never cared?

Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach?
Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

Step out on a busy street
See a girl and our eyes meet
Does her best to smile at me
To hide what's underneath
There's a man just to her right
Black suit and a bright red tie
Too ashamed to tell his wife
He's out of work, he's buying time
All those people going somewhere
Why have I never cared?

Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach?
Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

I've been there a million times
A couple of million eyes just moving past me by
I swear I never thought that I was wrong
Well, I want a second glance
So give me a second chance
To see the way You see the people all alone

Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
Give me Your love for humanity
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach?
Give me Your heart for the one's forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see

Give me Your eyes for just one second
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Everything that I keep missing
That I keep missing
Give me Your arms for the broken hearted
The ones that are far beyond my reach?
Give me Your heart for the ones forgotten
Give me Your eyes so I can see
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah
Yeah, yeah, yeah, yeah

How are you convicted? What have you never cared about? What can you not see? What do you keep missing? What is just beyond your reach? What would be different if… you could see through the eyes of Jesus?

Convicted, I sing the song as a prayer!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Bent Over Woman

2010-11-16T19:30:00.000-08:00

As promised, here’s the poem by Pastor Ron Baesler.

THE BENT OVER WOMAN

“Now he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the Sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight.” Luke 13:10

She has been downsized, minimized, trivialized
Once vibrant, vital, she pulsed with quiet energy,
Now weary beyond words, and quiet, so silent;
Her vocal cords like leather shoe laces in unused boots.
She is a bit of feather, caught by a bush in the lee of the house,
No breeze, no move, no lift.

From bedroom to bathroom is a 15 foot marathon.
Slide aching gnarled toes from beneath the sheets,
Swivel gravel grinding hip joints forward and reach
Reach for the rubber handles, rubber grip, don’t slip.
Then edge, slide, and shuffle.

Breakfast becomes a nuisance,
And the Tribune? No news is good news.
Besides, it is 15 feet from the front door to the chair
Where she waits for the day to pass.

The horizon kept inching closer.
The world kept getting smaller,
One day, she drifted out of milky sleep and realized
The world outside was tinier than the world inside.
She was not surprised.

I love Ron’s imagery in his poem! Some days I feel like I’m already there. Hahaha! Old age is something that most of us rarely think of, except as it effects our grandparents… or maybe our parents. Old age, if you live long enough, WILL find you. I doubt any of us is properly prepared.

The oldest people I know who are still active and alert have several things in common. They all have a great positive attitude. They all know God, and have a spirit of thankfulness. They are all active in their community… whether it’s a senior community, an assisted living community, or their church community… they stay active and involved. And, last but not least, they all seem to have servant hearts; they reach out to others… even if they can’t reach very far.

My prayer is that God will grant me the humbleness to accept each diminished capacity as I age, and that he grants me the strength to continue in His witness and His service until the day He calls me home.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Galilean Nights

2010-11-15T16:21:00.000-08:00

On Sunday, after one of the Services, Pastor Ron let me read a poem he had just recently written. I loved it, and badgered him to send it to me so I could post it on the blog. I was surprised when he sent me two attachments. Since I had already read his poem, I was immediately intrigued by the second attachment. Now, Pastor Ron is a very good writer, but I was blown away by what I read in that second attachment. Consider the implications of what you read in Pastor Ron Baesler’s…

GALILEAN NIGHTS

Hey, Judas, pass me that wineskin, will ya.

Here, catch!

Whoa… man, it’s almost empty.

You’re surprised. Didn’t you see the Zebedee boys when we were eating bread a couple of hours ago?

Yeah, now that you mention it, those sons of thunder were really roarin’! Where are they by the way?

Those two… can’t you hear ‘em? They’re conked out over by those bushes.

Wine’ll do that to you! How about the rest of the guys?

While you were up the hill praying, Peter convinced everybody to go into the town. Claimed he had a cousin who might be up for company.

Yeah, that’s Peter’s gift isn’t it? Knows somebody in every town; he’s just a party waiting to happen. Ah… to be young again!

What do you mean, “young again”? You’re not old.

Big difference between 25 and 30, you know. After 30, I became an official responsible adult. But hey, Judas, why didn’t you go with the gang?

Well, Jesus, I… well… you know… I thought somebody should stay and ah, well… protect you.

Hah, hah. I’ve got the sons of thunder right there in the bushes. Their snoring alone would send a whole legion stampeding in terror!

Ha, you’re right there. …But seriously, Jesus soldiers aren’t the problem. Its hoodlums; out here, people are barely feeding their children, the Romans crush them with taxes, so they’ve got nothing... and nothing to lose. Desperate robbers and thieves….that’s what these damn Romans have turned us into.

Sure, Judas, I suppose you’re right. Guess I should say thank you. But you know I didn’t invite you along to be my body guard.

I… OK… well, you know, Jesus, I’m not sure why you did invite me. I mean, I’m glad you did, sure, but I guess, well… I was hoping I could be more useful.

Useful… hmm… Interesting choice of words, Judas. Useful in what way?

I don’t know… I thought by now we’d have some plan, some strategy that we’d be moving forward on.

How do you know we’re not?

We’re not what?

How do you know we’re not moving forward on some plan?

How could we be? We haven’t set any timetables; we haven’t had any strategy meetings…unless I wasn’t invi--… I mean… OK, so maybe I wasn’t invited… Sorry if I…

Judas, hey… brother… Calm down. You should know by now I’m not a secret meeting kind a guy. With me, ‘What you see is what you get.’

Oh, Jesus, that’s a good one! What I see is a good Jew who dresses poor shabby chic like the rest of us, I see a guy who laughs with the little ones and cries with the lost ones. All of that see, all of that I get. But when you start talkin’ with that up country twang I swear even the birds stop to listen, then, when you start tellin’ your stories-- the Lord of heaven be my witness, power dances and crackles in the air. And don’t even get me started about yesterday and those loaves and fishes… ‘What you see is what you get?’ Yeah right, brother Jesus!

OK, OK, you made your point. But Judas, what if it’s all in the seeing.

Whaddya mean?

Remember yesterday afternoon when we were walking north out of Capernaum and we saw that fox?

Yeaaah…

Remember how it blended in with the rocks and grass? Remember how long it took some of us to see it?

I don’t think Matthew ever did see it.

Right… that fox was there for all of us to see. But none of us would have seen it if Nathanael hadn’t spied it. You know why he saw it?

No.

Because he spent years and years taking care of his dad’s sheep on the pastures south of Bethany. Haven’t you noticed? As we walk along he’s always scanning the hills, letting his eyes roam over rocks and poke into shadows. He’s trained himself to see what most of us would miss. Maybe I AM a “what you see is what you get kind of guy.” The problem is people haven’t trained their eyes to see what’s right in front of them.

Never thought of it that way before…. So you’re sayin’ there really is a plan and I just can’t see it?

Aw Judas, you and your plan. Why is that so important to you? Why can’t you just enjoy the journey? Wake up in the morning and see the swallows stitching the sky together, hear the ewes chewing out their lambs for lagging behind the flock, smell the bread a mother is baking for her family off in some village. Some mornings, Judas, I swear, I try to take in all of the bounty and beauty around me and my soul aches from trying to embrace it all. Can’t you just embrace it, just live it?

Oh, I do enjoy the journey…..I mean I’ve never done anything like this before. Every day… wide open, like an empty scroll and we fill it in as we choose. I mean such freedom, scary sometimes…but, Jesus, how can I not think about a plan… you’re the one who keeps saying “the Kingdom of God is coming.” To me that means changes, big changes… and changes don’t just happen, ‘poof’ like some wizard’s tricks. You need a plan. And as I see it, if God’s kingdom is coming then that means the Roman’s kingdom is going and that’s not going to be easy, so---

Judas, whoa, slow down. You are definitely my impatient brother. And you’re right I have been talking about the kingdom and sure that’s gonna mean changes. Will you see them? Will anyone see them? How do we train our eyes? Come here, sit down on this rock. Now look up and tell me what you see.

Dark sky and stars. Should I be seeing something else?

No, no. that’s what I see too. Stars. I wonder, how many of them are there?

Whoa, too many to count. Only God knows.

You think?

What?

You think God knows how many stars are in heaven?

Well, I… sure. God knows everything.

How do you know that?

I must have learned it in the yeshiva. But, hey, what kind of God would our God be if he didn’t know everything?

Ah Judas! Now that’s a sweet question, a juicy, luscious question. We could sink the teeth of our minds into that one and chew all night long. “What kind of God would our God be if he didn’t know everything?” Well, whaddya think? Maybe he’d be a God waiting for us to surprise him, a God waiting for us to make the next move, or a God waiting to see what we’ll do with the world he’s put into our hands. Ah, brother Judas. What a question. You have made my day. Thank you!

I… you’re welcome, I guess. I don’t know, to me it’s scary to think God gives us that much leeway, that much responsibility. I’m not sure I want it.

Yeah, but what if you already have it? What if that is God’s plan? What if you and I are the ones who will have to shape tomorrow… what if…? Ah Judas… tomorrow, tomorrow. I think before tomorrow comes I need to get some sleep.

Yeah it is late. I suppose Peter and the rest will be back before long, too.

Judas, if you wanna do guard duty, OK… you wanna sleep, that’s OK, too. Just remember, Judas, you are free, you have a choice! Goodnight.

Goodnight Jesus. I think I’ll stay up awhile. Maybe I’ll try to count the stars.

Thank you, Pastor Ron, for reminding me that, in Jesus, I have a choice. In Jesus, I am free!

If you want to pass something positive, uplifting, and perhaps a bit challenging along to your friends, send them a link to this blog page with Pastor Ron’s story. If you don’t know how to do that, ask a 14-year old to help you (and perhaps teach you). LOL!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Still Under Attack

2010-11-04T00:06:00.000-07:00

Yes, I’m still under the random attacks (link to: Still), and no… I’m not really any better. Since January of 2010, my medical doctor has had so many tests performed on me that I’m beginning to feel like a mad scientist’s experiment gone awry. I’ve had enough blood drawn to satisfy the Twilight denizens, and the only abnormal thing they can point to is that my HDL is really low. So I now dutifully take enormous amounts of Niacin (vitamin B-3) in what seems to be an experimental attempt (“studies have shown promise”) to get my good cholesterol into the normal range. The marvelous side effect of taking Niacin in dosages exceeding 500 mg is something called Flushing; your skin alternately feels burning hot, or crawling with insects. Fun times!

“Will this fix my problem?” I ask.

“Oh, no… but we should fix your HDL,” replies the doctor “and let’s put you on a Pravastatin to make sure we control your bad cholesterol at the same time, because you are just a few points too high.”

Along the way, I’ve seen heart doctors and neurologists. They, in turn, have sent me for x-rays of my neck, echocardiograms of my heart, trans-esophageal echocardiograms for a better view of my heart (hospital procedure… sonar device crammed down your throat; NOT FUN), electrocardiograms of my brain (yes, I DO have one), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of my brain and spine, and a host of other poking and prodding of various other areas of my body.

All of the medical professionals deal with me in a similar concerned and caring manner, but like the neurologist (who is the only one to openly admit it)… they are shooting in the dark at my symptoms… since they have, as yet, to diagnose the problem.

“I’m starting you on 500 mg of Depakote (divalproex sodium) to see if that helps you.”

“Will that fix my problem?”

“It’s an anti-epilepsy drug; very effective.” she said.

“Do I have epilepsy?” I demanded.

“No, but your symptoms might respond to this type of treatment.”

I was trying to find something positive in this situation, so after viewing the MRI of my brain, I asked:

“See any tumors, cancer, or swelling of my brain?”

“Nope, it all looks fine. You have a normal brain.”

“Ha!” I replied, “Now my wife will have to stop calling me ‘Pea Brain’.”

I don’t think doctors appreciate humor much. After that crack, she took a second look at my scans, pronounced that I had a sinus infection that showed up on the MRI, and sent me back to my regular MD. He also looked at the MRI scans, agreed that I have a terrible sinus infection, and began to prescribe an antibiotic that would take care of the infection:

“We’ll need to knock down that infection with a strong antibiotic.”

“Is the sinus infection causing my problems… my attacks?”

“Oh, no,” chuckled the doctor, “but we should fix this before it gets any worse.”

“But my head feels fine. I breathe fine. I don’t even have a sniffle.”

“Some sinus infections are like that,” he said cheerily, “it’s lucky we had the MRI so we could see it. Now let’s see… are you allergic to anything.”

“Yes, I’m allergic to bullets”

“What?!?” he exclaimed, “How can you be allergic to bullets?”

“Every time I’m shot,” I snickered, “I have a really bad reaction!”

Showing not the least bit of appreciation of my humor, and thus validating my premise, he wrote me a prescription for AMOX TR-K CLV 875, and then seemed almost gleeful when he explained that this antibiotic kills all the bacteria in the gut, so I should be sure to take a daily probiotic to keep replacing the little critters. As an aside, he mentioned that I “might” experience some bloating, gas, or severe diarrhea. That turned out to be an understatement!

I could not take the probiotic fast enough. To be honest, it didn’t seem to do anything at all to relieve what was fast becoming a disaster of epic proportions. For days, I seemed to be tied to the toilet seat. If you’ve had a bad case of stomach flu, you have a slight inkling of what I went through. After a while, I just wanted to die!

“Surely, this is how the infirm, the diseased, and the aged might feel.” That was the thought that suddenly shot into my mind as my intestines kept trying to turn themselves inside out. At that same instant, I realized that all my faith had been on medicine, other medicines, and my own strength. I wish I could report that as soon as I turned my heart back toward Jesus that I was instantly made well; I wasn’t. But it was as if I could feel Jesus holding my hand, easing my pain, and reminding me that it would soon pass. Then a miracle occurred: my youngest daughter came by and forced me to take some Imodium tablets. Thirty minutes later, I was greatly relieved (no pun intended).

I was a victim of the cure being worse than the disease! I felt deathly ill for 5 whole days. When you can’t control your bowels, you are angry, irritable, embarrassed, and in pain (for more than one reason). Your only thoughts to God, when you are alone and in pain, are not all that productive… they are probably a lot like mine were. And physical pain is just the tip of the iceberg. The pain of the death of a loved one can be even greater! I bet you know somebody who is in pain right now.

I challenge you to remind them of the Good News of Jesus Christ. I challenge you to sit with them, hold their hand, and pray with them. I challenge you to be an earthly reminder that Jesus wants to walk beside them… to erase their sins, free them from bondage, and to ease their pain.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Perfect

2010-10-08T00:06:00.000-07:00

And… wait for it… here is yet another video! If you are reading this on Facebook, on email, or on a smart phone, you should really make an effort to view it on Messiah’s site.

‘Perfect’ is a music video from a Canadian group called Simple Plan. This particular song isn’t what you might consider to be Christian worship music… by any stretch of the imagination. At first blush, it doesn’t seem to have much of a draw for “adults”, either. If you are the parent of a teenager, you might find that you have more in common with your angry, rebellious teen than you ever imagined… especially if you read on, and… if you watch the video a few times.

The song and the video do a great job of literally looking in the window of teenagers. They are struggling with changes in their lives. They are wondering about their place in the world; in the universe. They are talented, intelligent, and sensitive, but are often dismissed, or worse yet… invisible. They love intensely, are highly emotional, and feel rejected at the least provocation. What they want is to strive toward what they see as bright possibilities in their future, not be restrained by the impossibility thinking of people living in the past who think of them only as children.

Of course, adults see it differently. Adults see children that resist authority, that don’t have any idea how the real world works, that are idealistic and emotionally charged, and that don’t know how to make the best choices yet. As adults, don’t we have to protect them from the things we know will only end badly for them?

Actually, there isn’t much difference between teenagers and adults. Compare how adults percieve God… “He has all these rules that I just can’t ever live up to… I’m not perfect!” “Why do I have to be accountable for everything? I’m not perfect!” “Why shouldn’t I get angry? I’m not perfect!” As adults, we have just as many excuses for God, as teenagers have excuses for adults.

Yet, there is Good News. Though we are not perfect, we can find the perfection we need in Jesus. In Him, and through Him, and with Him, we are made right and acceptable to God the Father… we are made PERFECT!

Perhaps… just maybe… if you can get your [FILL IN THE BLANK] (teen, parent) to read this blog entry and watch the video… you might be able to open a dialog.

“Come now, and let us reason together”, saith the LORD: “though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.”
Isaiah 1:18

Share this with somebody in your life, and let me know what happens.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Everything

2010-09-26T23:48:00.000-07:00

I know, I know… I seem to be on a video kick. It’s just that I have found several inspiring videos that I really want to share. And yes, I am aware that all the people reading this on a Facebook feed cannot see the video. Yes, I know how inconvenient it is to have to go view it on Messiah’s site, but this Christian video has had over 14 million views, so it is probably worth your time.

Today’s video is from a youth gathering in 2006… Winterfest in Knoxville, Tennessee. It was a skit set to the song “Everything” by Lifehouse; a skit performed by youth for youth. After watching the skit, you will see how… when the Holy Spirit is moving in God’s people… a skit for youth can transcend age, gender, and situation to touch the hearts everybody.

What a powerful reminder of how strong, and how many, are the world’s influences and distractions. This is true for all of us, but especially so for our young people. These influences and distractions pull us away from God, yet even in that separation, God never stops pulling us toward Him. In God’s presence, all of those influences, distractions, and sins are defeated!

For me, it is so powerful to see Christ take the beating for all of the things that I (if I’m honest with myself) invited into my life. Every time I watch this video, I see something new. I’m moved by this video to want to seek an even closer relationship with God and a stronger walk with my Lord and Savior… Jesus Christ.

Tell me what YOU think.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Office

2010-09-18T01:01:00.000-07:00

This is a parody of NBC’s hit series, The Office, using the real staff of The Branch Church in Dallas, Texas. If you haven’t seen the NBC series, you are probably really comfortable under that rock; seriously, if you haven’t seen it… watch a couple of episodes on YouTube. Many on the staff are obviously blessed with real acting talent, and the scripting and production values are first rate. It’s an awesome parody!

Besides having a whole lot of fun making it, what do you think The Branch Church is trying to accomplish with this video? Who do you think they might be targeting? What is the message?

Sometimes it helps to take a step back and contemplate how the unchurched see us. How do WE see ourselves? How do we see each other? I’m not going to try and tell you what to think about the video, all I ask… is that you think.

I’ll be on the campus and at worship on Sunday. Drop by and tell me what YOU think.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Do It Again, Lord

2010-09-11T12:11:00.000-07:00

September 11th, 2001… a day etched in blood, and tears, and destruction on the hearts of most Americans. In the hours and days following that criminal and murderous attack, I was never prouder to be an American. I watched Americans who braved collapsing skyscrapers rush in to save people they didn’t know. I watched political, ethnic, and religious rivals put aside their differences to make the impossible… possible. Three days later, one of my favorite Christian authors, Max Lucado, wrote the following for America Prays, a national prayer vigil held Saturday, September 14, 2001.

Dear Lord,

We're still hoping we'll wake up. We're still hoping we'll open a sleepy eye and think, what a horrible dream.

But we won't, will we, Father? What we saw was not a dream. Planes did gouge towers. Flames did consume our fortress. People did perish. It was no dream and, dear Father, we are sad.

There is a ballet dancer who will no longer dance and a doctor who will no longer heal. A church has lost her priest, a classroom is minus a teacher. Cora ran a food pantry. Paige was a counselor and Dana, dearest Father, Dana was only three years old. (Who held her in those final moments?)

We are sad, Father. For as the innocent are buried, our innocence is buried as well. We thought we were safe. Perhaps we should have known better. But we didn't.

And so we come to you. We don't ask you for help; we beg you for it. We don't request it; we implore it. We know what you can do. We've read the accounts. We've pondered the stories and now we plead, do it again, Lord. Do it again.

Remember Joseph? You rescued him from the pit. You can do the same for us. Do it again, Lord.

Remember the Hebrews in Egypt? You protected their children from the angel of death. We have children, too, Lord. Do it again.

And Sarah? Remember her prayers? You heard them. Joshua? Remember his fears? You inspired him. The women at the tomb? You resurrected their hope. The doubts of Thomas? You took them away. Do it again, Lord. Do it again.

You changed Daniel from a captive into a king's counselor. You took Peter the fisherman and made him Peter an apostle. Because of you, David went from leading sheep to leading armies. Do it again, Lord, for we need counselors today, Lord. We need apostles. We need leaders. Do it again, dear Lord.

Most of all, do again what you did at Calvary. What we saw here on that Tuesday, you saw there on that Friday. Innocence slaughtered. Goodness murdered. Mothers weeping. Evil dancing. Just as the ash fell on our children, the darkness fell on your Son. Just as our towers were shattered, the very Tower of Eternity was pierced.

And by dusk, heaven's sweetest song was silent, buried behind a rock.

But you did not waver, O Lord. You did not waver. After three days in a dark hole, you rolled the rock and rumbled the earth and turned the darkest Friday into the brightest Sunday. Do it again, Lord. Grant us a September Easter.

We thank you, dear Father, for these hours of unity. Disaster has done what discussion could not. Doctrinal fences have fallen. Republicans are standing with Democrats. Skin colors have been covered by the ash of burning buildings. We thank you for these hours of unity.

And we thank you for these hours of prayer. The Enemy sought to bring us to our knees and succeeded. He had no idea, however, that we would kneel before you. And he has no idea what you can do.

Let your mercy be upon our President, Vice President, and their families. Grant to those who lead us wisdom beyond their years and experience. Have mercy upon the souls who have departed and the wounded who remain. Give us grace that we might forgive and faith that we might believe.

And look kindly upon your church. For two thousand years you've used her to heal a hurting world.

Do it again, Lord. Do it again.

Through Christ,

Amen.

As written by Max Lucado for America Prays,
a national prayer vigil held Saturday, September 14, 2001.
Permission to copy not only granted but encouraged.
Also available on MaxLucado.com.

We may never forget, but as Max Lucado prayed, “Give us grace that we might forgive and faith that we might believe.”

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Better than a Hallelujah

2010-09-07T17:02:00.000-07:00

I was listening to the radio the other day, and heard Amy Grant singing a song I’d never heard before. It touched my heart, so of course… I must share it. The YouTube video I use is one of the few that has permission by Amy Grant and EMI for publication, AND it has a great digital soundtrack provided by EMI.

As usual, the poet within me must also share the lyrics:

Better Than a Hallelujah
by Amy Grant

God loves a lullaby
In a mother’s tears in the dead of night…
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes.
God loves a drunkard’s cry,
The soldier’s plea not to let him die…
Better than a Hallelujah sometimes.

We pour out our miseries,
God just hears a melody.
Beautiful the mess we are,
The honest cries, of breaking hearts…
Are better than a Hallelujah.

A woman holding on for life,
A dying man giving up the fight,
Are better than a Hallelujah sometimes.
Tears of shame for what’s been done;
The silence when the words won’t come…
Are better than a Hallelujah sometimes.

We pour out our miseries,
God just hears a melody.
Beautiful the mess we are,
The honest cries, of breaking hearts…
Are better than a Hallelujah.

Better than a church bell ringing,
Better than a choir singing out,
Singing out…

We pour out our miseries,
God just hears a melody.
Beautiful the mess we are,
The honest cries, of breaking hearts…
Are better than a Hallelujah.

As is so common for me, this song touched a chord in me… right time, right place, and right song. Amy Grant has an official video that tells a poignant story of heartbreak, as she sings this song. Too bad EMI has blocked it from being embedded in blogs. If you want to see it, you’ll have to look it up on YouTube (look for the Official version).

Have you ever had a “better than a Hallelujah” moment in your life… a time of pain, heartbreak, suffering, or brokenness where you felt God’s presence most intensely? I imagine that the prayers of brokenness outweigh the Hallelujahs by better than a million to one.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Creation Calls

2010-08-26T01:27:00.000-07:00

The Branch Church in Dallas, Texas created this video. They used the music of Brian Doerksen and footage from the “Planet Earth” DVD collection. It’s flat-out amazing. Turn up your sound, sit back, and let the endless diversity and wonder of God’s creation wash over you.

What really impresses me is the fact that all these natural wonders, amazing creatures, and all this stunning beauty represents just a tiny fraction of what is on our planet; a speck of a speck in an infinite universe of creation.

Why would a powerful and creative God want a relationship with me? “For God so loved the world...” can that possibly mean he loves me, too? How is that possible when I’m so small and creation is so infinite? Do I even matter at all? Who am I that God would love me?!?

Come worship, fellowship, and share with us on Sunday to find out. Come hear the Good News!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Bearing Witness

2010-08-17T20:27:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, August 3rd, I found myself in the most enviable position of being able to spend the day alone with my almost-3-year-old grandson. I had one use left on the 3-use Disney Park ticket I had received for Father’s Day, so I decided that he and I should go before my ticket expired and Jeffrey lost his get-in-free status on his birthday. Having never been to Disney’s California Adventure Park, that is where we found ourselves when their gates opened.

I had heard so many glowing reports about the “Soaring over California” attraction, so that was the first place we went to begin our fun-filled day of standing in line. We confidently strode right up to the end of a vast queue of humanity, certain that it was now only a matter of time before we would actually be soaring over California. I wasn’t even worried when a Disney line-troll asked to measure Jeffrey to verify that he met the silly height requirement of 40 inches… after all, we had worked all morning with the gravity boots, and the ever popular swinging-the-kid-around-by-his-ankles. Imagine my chagrin when we were ejected from the line because Jeffrey still only measured 37 ¾ inches! If you can’t trust gravity and centripetal force, what can you trust?!?

We ended up spending most of our time in the park in an area called A Bugs Land. If you have toddlers, this is a theme park made just for them! Oh, and don’t forget their bathing suit (or a change of clothes), as there are several places to play in the water. Kids really love playing in the water… especially with lots of other kids. Needless to say, Jeffrey had a great time getting wet, riding on rides sized just for him, and explaining everything to Pop-pop (I had a great time, too).

Throughout the Disney theme parks, there are plenty places where Disney characters hang out (with a professional Disney photographer, of course). Just wait in line for a bit and you can shake hands with Mickey, mug for the camera with Goofy, or dance with Tigger. The photographer takes your picture, you get a card with a code on it, and you can marvel at the amazing quality of professional photographs... later… at your leisure… online… and only… HOW MUCH?!? Hahaha… they don’t force you to buy anything, and the photographer is quite obliging… offering to take pictures with your camera or cell phone, too.

Anyway, Jeffrey spotted Pluto as we entered A Bugs Land, and began tugging me over to that line.

“Can we go see Pluto, Pop-pop?” he exclaimed.

I didn’t even realize he knew who Pluto was, but before you could say “you-old-softie”, we were in line to see Pluto. Remembering the meltdown with the Mall Santa at Christmas, I immediately started thinking that this was a bad idea. Still, Jeffrey kept tugging me forward every time the line moved up a bit, so I began studying Jeffrey for clues as to how he was going to react to a 6-foot dog. He was, in a word, inscrutable. He was intensely watching the people in line and Pluto. He watched 2 sisters squeal with delight when Pluto signed their autograph books. He strained to see 5 young men high-five Pluto, and eagerly pose for pictures with him. And he listened to the young couple in front of us telling everyone that Pluto was their absolute favorite Disney character.

When his time came, he RAN to Pluto, and buried himself in his arms! He was laughing and smiling, and more than happy to pose for a few pictures. I was amazed!

Later, I thought… if only people ran to Christ like that! None of the people in line that day were thinking about being a positive witness for Pluto, but they were. They were all excited about the prospect of spending just a few seconds with a fictional cartoon character. They all knew what they were in line for, and they knew to run to him when he stretched out his arms. There was no Disney line-monitor telling us what to do… neither were they aware that other people were watching to see who they were excited about… where they were going… and who they were going to see. But little eyes were watching.

What kind of witness are we bearing for Christ? Do we know what we are in line for? Are we excited about taking others along with us? If we are excited, do we openly share it with those around us? How often do WE go out of our way to run into the outstretched arms of Christ?!? We don’t often think about ourselves as actively bearing witness for Christ, but… the eyes of the world are watching us all the time.

“Can we go see Jesus?”

Are you lined up for Starbucks on Sunday morning, or the Lord’s Table?

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Word of the Lord

2010-08-12T20:03:00.000-07:00

Little Clara is just 2 years old, yet her parents have already given her a gift that will comfort and uplift her for a lifetime. Clara has had the 23rd Psalm placed in her heart! Listen, as this sweet child of God recites a portion of God’s Word that has brought hope and comfort to all who hear it. Notice how this toddler pretends to read from the Bible… as, no doubt, her parents often do… emulating the grownups around her. Pay close attention as Clara, in her delightful Southern accent, emphasizes those words and phrases that might have special meaning to a small child. Which of God’s Words… recited by Clara… has touched your heart today?

I’m guessing that Clara’s parents made a far better choice teaching their child the 23rd Psalm… rather than have her learn the lyrics and dance moves of a Lady Gaga song! I wonder… are we being as wise with our time, and our choices?

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Shine On

2010-07-31T21:24:00.000-07:00

“You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:14-16

If we seek, listen to, AND act on the Word of Christ, God calls us the light of the world.

A while back, I was speaking with a young man from Iran, and I noticed that he was reading a book about the making of movie ‘The Passion of Christ.’ I saw this as an opportunity, and asked him how he came to seek Christ, coming from a region of the world that doesn’t officially tolerate anything but Islam?

He told me that when he first came to the United States to attend the university, he stayed with an American family. Though they were Christian, they didn’t try to tell him that the religion he was raised with was wrong. But they DID welcome him into their home without reservation, they did pray together, they did study God’s Word together, an they did worship together. They did all the other things families do, as well: they argued, they disagreed, they got on each other’s nerves… but they also apologized, they forgave, and they loved… not just their own family, but those around them, too. This family planted seeds of love in this young man’s heart. They are a light in the world.

Mel Gibson is a famous personality who has certainly had his ups and downs with the press and public opinion. He felt compelled to work within his artistic medium to produce a film about the last few hours of Christ’s life, ministry, and sacrifice. This same young man has seen the film several times, and has been deeply moved, and actively seeks the presence of Christ in his life. Mel Gibson could have listened to all the people who said that the film he was driven to make didn’t make sense; either socially OR economically. Instead, he became a light in the world.

So what do an ordinary family and a famous actor have in common? Part of the answer, of course, is that each let THEIR unique light shine into the world. Another part of the answer is that each of those lights helped light the way for a young man… toward the salvation of Jesus Christ.

We are cautioned NOT to hide our light. The simple truth is that people in darkness are attracted to the Light of Christ. We are NOT told to beat people up with Scripture, or to drag them kicking and screaming into church. Christ never forced himself on anyone. Instead, He gave us a new message. He taught NOT of hate, nor of violence, nor fear, nor retribution, nor jealousy, or revenge. His message, as important today as it was during His ministry, is a simple and powerful message of love and forgiveness. His message IS the Light of the World! Have you merely only listened to His message, or have you RECEIVED the Light of the World? If you HAVE received the Light, are you hiding it, or are you letting it shine before all people? By all means, shine on!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Spirit of My Grandfather

2010-07-25T03:24:00.000-07:00

You ever get really frustrated? I mean pop-your-cork frustrated, lash out at somebody frustrated? We Christians tend to think it can’t, or it doesn’t happen to us, but we are hugely mistaken. This week I got really, really, frustrated; to the point of becoming explosively angry.

I could defend my actions, and even remind you that Jesus got angry and frustrated, too (remember Jesus driving the merchants and money changers out of the temple?). I could give you a big list of my frustrations (who, and what), but then I realize that many of my close friends have frustrations that trump mine by a mile. Perhaps you know what I mean.

Often, one of our greatest sources of frustration comes from those we love. Certainly, the disciples provided Jesus with no end of frustration. Yet, he loved them. As a disciple of Christ, this greatly encourages me when I miss the mark… when I sin… when I am far from Christ-like. He loves us, too. Jesus understands our flaws and loves us anyway. It doesn’t matter what our flaws are as long as we accept the salvation that Jesus paid for with his suffering and death, and as long as we declare Him to be the resurrected Lord of our lives. I’m in constant awe that God can use us… flawed and broken though we may often seem… as a conduit for His perfect Holy Spirit in the world today.

When my wife Patti is really frustrated with me, she sometimes gets rid of things. Our daughters learned early on that when their mother got too frustrated with the state of their rooms, she would clean their rooms herself… getting rid of many items she felt were useless, unused, or unwanted (in her estimation, but not always in the estimation of my daughters). She was always a lot less frustrated after filling several trash bags with old toys, clothes that no longer fit, and useless bric-a-brac. Yesterday, being very frustrated with me, she began going through stuff in our closet, and found a box of old letters. She threw out many that held no meaning anymore, had her mood lifted by some letters from her brother Richard, and found a letter from my Grandfather that she gave to me.

It was a letter my Grandfather wrote in 1979. To be honest, I don’t recall ever having read the letter back then. Since I didn’t accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior until 1988, it seems that God’s Holy Spirit was guiding my Grandfather to speak to me through the letter in some future time. My Grandfather was a strong willed man with an unshakable faith, a special way of looking at the wonder of God’s creation, and certain that the Lord was a part of his daily existence. Here is a portion of his letter:

Thank you and my God bless and love you for your thoughtfulness in sending me the lovely card while I was in the hospital. Thank you too for remembering me in your prayers. The condition when I entered the hospital for tests was to find out why my blood count for red and white cells was down to 25 to 30% of normal. Was it internal bleeding or was the blood not being manufactured? Dave, it is now just a little of a mystery like your magic, it may be one or the other, or both. Hopefully, the doctors will uncover the mystery and find the answer. The spleen is slightly enlarged and may be blocking the blood formation entering the body from the bone marrow; possibly, since receiving 7 units of blood (red cells) there may be a normal functioning of the Spleen. Time will tell. However, the Police force (white cells) count is still the same as before.

It has been a beautiful revelation to me, after getting the first 3 units of blood (a gift of some kind person) to have back most of my reserve energy; another precious two blessings to thank our Blessed Lord for when I am united to Him at daily Mass and Holy Communion. It was certainly a sort of Divine Revelation to me to learn of the great material strengthening that blood gives the body. And then from there, to more fully understand the more perfect and far-reaching spiritual strengthening of the soul and our body by partaking of our Blessed Lord’s real body and blood in Holy Communion.

It’s a mystery how my Grandfather’s spirit can suddenly speak to me over all these years, and yet it has. I don’t need to echo his beautiful message. Read his words again, and I’ll see you on Sunday… at Communion.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Finding New Purpose

2010-07-13T16:57:00.000-07:00

Here at Messiah Lutheran Church in Yorba Linda, we seem to have a miraculous confluence of honor, duty, and helpfulness; either that or our fellowship is blessed with an abundance of Eagle Scouts. This manifests itself in Eagle Scout projects that benefit our church, our campus, and our community. Over the years, we have enjoyed Eagle Scout projects that have created permanent planters bordered by seating areas, information gazebos, walkways, room remodels, pocket parks, and more. This past week saw another such Eagle Scout Project installed on our campus.

Grant Bagne is an awesome young scout on his way to Eagle. For his project he envisioned turning a tired planter and walkway into a patio that would give us additional outdoor small group meeting space. The completed result looks great, has created a flexible space, and will be utilized by the various groups that meet in our Joy Center. Thanks, Grant!

Grant removed the big decorative stones, ripped out decades old plants, and created a hole… bordered by a concrete walkway that was still in great shape. Into the hole went the sand and gravel base, and then the paving stones were placed into a very organic space to create a beautiful and functional patio. Hedge plants that will create a privacy screen were then added to the edge, and … an area with no real use had suddenly found purpose again.

Marveling at how nice his project had turned out, and envisioning all the people it will bless, I couldn’t help thinking about God at work in our lives. As Christians we should accept finding new purpose as a given:

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. - 2 Corinthians 5:17

We often struggle to keep the old; the old planter, the old habits, the old familiar way of doing things. If an old contemplation walkway, can find new purpose, we should be open to the times when God’s Holy Spirit goes to work on us… to create new purpose in our lives, our churches, and our communities. If we can give approval to a Boy Scout to give an area of our church new purpose, why can we not let God give US a new purpose? Too often God hears: “I’m fine as I am, Lord; I’ll come to church, but don’t ask me to change anything.” You can’t be a new creation in Christ sunk in the old foundations of tradition, ritual, and habit! It’s time to declare a new purpose… by faith!

I am… A new creation created in Christ, conformed by his love.

I am… A new creation created for worship and passionate praise.

I am… A new creation fearfully and wonderfully made.

I am… A new creation…
OLD things are gone;
OLD ways are gone.

We at Messiah are… A new creation…
NEW things are here;
NEW ways are here;
NEW hope is here;
NEW life is here!

Come visit with us on Sunday to find out about all the ways you can start to experience what being a new creation is all about. Come and find new purpose. In God’s purpose, you will find joy!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Freedom Isn’t Free

2010-07-04T02:30:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

When I was a child in elementary school, I stood beside my desk at the start of every school day and recited (along with everyone else) the Pledge of Allegiance. I placed my hand over my heart, and pledged allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. In a few years, I came to realize that my allegiance was to the Republic for which the flag stood… one nation under God… indivisible… with liberty and justice for all.

As a child, I did not yet realize that the liberty we enjoy here in the United States of America, the freedoms we take for granted, are bought by the service and sacrifice of the men and the women who serve this country as part of the Armed Services.

God Bless our Military! They protect our Country and our Freedom. Thanks to them, and their sacrifices, we can celebrate the 4th of July.

Kelly Strong wrote the following poem in 1981. It is as full of meaning today as it was when Kelly first penned it.

FREEDOM IS NOT FREE
by Kelly Strong

I watched the flag pass by one day.
It fluttered in the breeze.
A young Marine saluted it, and then
He stood at ease.

I looked at him in uniform
So young, so tall, so proud
With hair cut square and eyes alert
He'd stand out in any crowd.

I thought, how many men like him
Had fallen through the years?
How many died on foreign soil?
How many mothers' tears?

How many pilots' planes shot down?
How many died at sea?
How many foxholes were soldiers' graves?
No, freedom is not free.

I heard the sound of taps one night,
When everything was still.
I listened to the bugler play
And felt a sudden chill.

I wondered just how many times
That taps had meant "Amen"
When a flag had draped a coffin
Of a brother or a friend.

I thought of all the children,
Of the mothers and the wives,
Of fathers, sons and husbands
With interrupted lives.

I thought about a graveyard
At the bottom of the sea
Of unmarked graves in Arlington.
No, freedom isn't free!

Copyright 1981 by Kelly Strong

As you celebrate our country’s independence today, reflect on the freedoms we enjoy. Collect those around you today and take a minute to pray for all those serving our country. Of all the gifts you could give a U.S. Soldier, prayer is the very best one. God Bless Our Troops.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Remembering Stephanie Rhone (9/12/1963 – 6/18/2010)

2010-06-26T21:51:00.000-07:00

That’s Steffi (on the right) with her sister Cyndi. Steffi was my friend at church. I saw her virtually every week. She called me “Dad”. Somehow she got it into her head that I was her second dad; no amount of explaining could change her mind. Perhaps it was because her father’s name is David, like me. Nobody ever really knew why she was so insistent on calling me “Dad”, but she always did, and she always had a smile for me… along with a bone-crushing bear hug. Steffi was more than special in my life; she was a loving and joy-filled force of nature!

Sandra and David Rhone sent me an email that reflects such a pure Christian witness, that I just have to share it; it’s followed by the loving obituary she followed it with:

Our sweet, loving Stephanie passed away in her sleep early Friday morning. She was perfectly fine when she went to bed Thursday night. It's been a real shock. We miss her and will continue to miss her a lot. But we have great peace and comfort in knowing she is in the arms of her and our Lord Jesus being hugged and squeezed by him. We feel, thank you, and appreciate all your prayers.

In love, The Rhones

----------------------------

Stephanie Diane Rhone, 46, went to be with her Lord Jesus early Friday morning, June 18. She passed away very unexpectedly in her sleep. Stephanie was born on September 12, 1963 to David and Sandra Rhone in Alhambra, CA. Seven years later her sister Cynthia was born. Stephanie grew up in Placentia and Yorba Linda and graduated from Canyon Hills School in Orange in 1986. Since she was a teenager she has lived in Wallace Care Homes and more recently Cristobal Care Home during the week, spending her weekends at home with her family. Stephanie has been a Special Olympian her whole life competing in track and field the first time at age 7. Other events she competed in include volleyball, softball, and bowling, but her many medals were garnered mostly in gymnastics and Alpine Skiing. Her last competition was up at Big Bear in March, 2008. Stephanie was honored to be chosen by the Orange County Special Olympics to be one of the Sports Ambassadors for Alpine Skiing for 2008 - 2009. Over the years since graduation she had worked at Carl’s Jr., Burger King, and El Pollo Loco, as well as Anaheim Memorial Manor and most recently Pavilions in Newport. Stephanie was an active, long time member of Messiah Lutheran Church where served her Lord Jesus as an acolyte, greeter, and communion helper. Dear, sweet, Stephanie was loving, thoughtful, and caring, with smiles and hugs for all who knew her. And there are lots who knew her and will remember her always.

Donna and Richard Wesley were very close to Stephanie Rhone, and life-long friends of Stephanie’s parents, David and Sandra. After hearing about Steffi’s death, Donna sent the following email to the Rhone family. Wayne Engstrom read it at the celebration of the life of Stephanie Diane Rhone we had at the church on Thursday afternoon. It is a wonderful tribute to Stephanie, the scope and the impact of her love and her life, and a fond remembrance between families that are far more than friends… they love one another!

Dear Dave, Sandy, Cyndi:

Somehow it doesn't seem right that we should be here in Colorado at this time...we should be with you all laughing and crying remembering God's Angel...Stephanie. So in an incomplete way I am sitting here at the computer while Rich sleeps and remembering the love she brought us.

The first time we saw her was at a church beach outing in Corona Del Mar. She and Eric were about the same age and I think they threw sand at one another. Who was to know what an impact the Rhone family and Wesley family would have on one another. Shortly thereafter, Dave came by our house on Kermath St. on his bicycle with Steffi sitting in a seat in the back and we all talked for a while...the relationship was building. And all the time we talked Steffi was smiling and trying to get a "word" in while we gabbed. She was making herself known! Time went on and it seemed Eric and Steffi ended up in the same Sunday school class and at about five, Eric asked why Steffi was different. What an opportunity for us to tell him about the "special children" God created. How wonderful for us as a family to share the growing up years of this special girl.

Yes, our families were becoming entwined...Ruth Mary, along with you, Sandy… joined the very first Bible Study I led in my home. I remember being very humbled as Ruth Mary shared the story of the love she had for her granddaughter Stephanie and her acceptance of this "special child." And Ruth Mary became my friend!!! What a delightful experience this Rhone/Wesley relationship was becoming.

And sad times, I remember sitting with Steffi and Cyndi after you brought the girls to our house as you rushed to the hospital when your dad, Walter, had a heart attack. Steffi was almost inconsolable but I had an opportunity to hug and talk with her. All these occasions are gifts from God.

Years later, coming home from work driving down Valley View, who did I see but Steffi trudging along heading to your house from the bus stop. I pulled over and offered her a ride. "No" said Steffi, "My Dad said I need to walk and can't accept rides." She was a determined girl and listened to her Dad.

What a gift for my kids, along with Susie, volunteering at the Special Olympics and they did so honoring your Stephanie. All of these events opened all our eyes and made us look beyond appearances and look into the heart of each and every individual. What a heart she had...I can still feel those real tight hugs.

How about the infamous back pack trip to the Sierra for one whole week? I remember Cyndi "catching cars" with her fishing pole and who can forget Steffi's determination to hike up the mountain and eventually our long hike back out in a snow storm. The memories are building and so are the tears.

Stef had one up on me...I never learned to ski. I remember watching her at Brian Head snowplowing down the mountain and thinking "If Steffi can ski, so can I!!! But she was better than me...I never did learn to ski. But she sure was my inspiration for a while then I just figured I'd leave it that... she was better than me. Oh yes, she was better than me she saw good in everything and loved everyone. If only all of us had the heart of a Stephanie.

Thinking of church and her love for her church, there will never be a more enthusiastic acolyte!!!! If only every acolyte approached the job with her reverence, determination and love. What a joy to watch her.

Yes, through confirmations, 50th, 60th and 70th birthdays we have been together. Through changes of command, aspen tree plantings and most recently at our Granddaughter's Master's Degree Graduation the Wesley Family and Rhone Family have been entwined...what a gift from God and now our arms ache that we cannot laugh and cry with you on the loss of your Stephanie. We are better people for having known her and we loved her. Thank you for sharing her with us. God bless you Dave, Sandy and Cyndi. We love you.

Rich and Donna

A few days later, Richard Wesley died, and has joined Steffi in the arms of our Lord. As Christians, we look forward to our final destination, but as humans, we still feel the pain of losing a loved one. I ache for the loss felt by these two intertwined families. Sandra and David are traveling to Colorado to be with Donna this coming week, so I'm sure they will find comfort with one another. After all, Jesus does promise us:

For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.
- Matthew 18:20

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Prayer Circle

2010-06-13T18:29:00.000-07:00

Thank you, God! I praise you, Lord Jesus! For the last 2 weeks, I have been symptom free.

I know it is only by God’s divine healing and protection that I can walk again without feeling like I might pass out. I haven’t done anything different in my life or habits. My family, for all their recommendation on how I should do this or not do that, hasn’t gotten me to do anything different either. And the doctors, for all their poking, prodding, scanning, and testing, haven’t done anything but frustrate me with their inaction… except, of course, their ability to extract a $20 co-pay for each visit.

I don’t know how long my restoration will last, but I am grateful for every minute of every day that I am not under attack. I don’t know how much longer my family, friends, and Christian brothers and sisters will continue to lift me up in prayer, but I will continue to praise their love and faithfulness before the Lord.

This attack has certainly strengthened my prayer life. I thought I was doing alright by praying several times every day. When you are under crippling attack, and the only way forward is to pray with each step, you discover a deeper, more intimate, extremely powerful aspect of prayer. When every step and every breath is a prayer, it feels like Jesus is right beside you. The world may still close in on you, may still overwhelm you, may still blot out the light, but… the presence of the Lord gives you a calmness; a peace beyond all understanding… and the strength and the power to go on!

Yes, I’m rejoicing in every step. My joy is not in my health or my circumstances… my joy is in the Lord.

God has blessed me to see the humor is almost every situation. I often pray for divine revelation for those that seem humor impaired. Do you think their scowls indicate that they were weaned on a lemon? While I was in the hospital for the TEE procedure (Trans-Esophageal Echocardiogram), I had the nurses, technicians, and doctors in stitches. In all that laughter, I had not one moment of anxiety or fear. And the problem the doctors were 90% certain was in my heart? Well, they could find nothing, and boy… did they try to find something! My heart got a clean bill of health. Praise the Lord!

Last week, a friend posted a video of Michael Jr., a Christian comic, on Facebook. I thought it was hilarious, checked out other videos of his on YouTube, and found a whole bunch that cracked me up. I was particularly taken by “The Prayer Circle” video. I pray it brightens your day, and reminds you that God hears ALL our prayers… no matter how we pray. Enjoy.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Voice of Truth

2010-06-07T14:33:00.000-07:00

And in kind of a continuation of my last post...

This week, in conversation with almost everybody I bumped into, I heard how they were under attack in THEIR lives. Since I had just written about being under attack last week, I guess I was more open to hear about (and remember) the attacks other people were enduring. Most of them agreed that staying focused on Jesus made it easier to weather an attack, but that it was difficult to keep that focus. All of the attacks seemed coupled with plenty of negative voices. Voices saying that we are not good enough, that we are broken, that we will fail… and a myriad of other negative lies. Like Job, sometimes the voices are from those closest to us (a spouse or friends) and are really hard to ignore.

Yet, we do recognize God’s voice amid all the negative uproar. The little hitch is that God also gave us free will, so it’s up to us to decide which voice to heed. As much as Satan and the world try, they can never drown out the voice of God as he calls to us. And we can make no excuses that we could not recognize God’s voice. In chapter 10 of the Book of John in the New Testament, Jesus assures us that we can recognize His voice above all others:

“…and his sheep follow him because they know his voice.”
John 10:4

The Bible points up that all of us are constantly under attack. In their fear and doubt, some of the greatest heroes of the bible tried to argue with, or bargain with God. Oh, wait… don’t we do that still to this day? Yet, amazing, wondrous, and miraculous things happen when we choose to listen to, and follow, the voice of God.

The Holy Spirit placed this song in my head. It reflects exactly what I’ve been writing about. I’m including the lyrics, and below them, a video. Enjoy.

Voice of Truth
by Casting Crowns

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown where Jesus is
And He's holding out His hand

But the waves are calling out my name
And they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy, you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

Chorus:
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
The voice of truth says, "Do not be afraid!"
The voice of truth says, "This is for My glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Oh what I would do to have
The kind of strength it takes to stand before a giant
With just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound of a thousand warriors
Shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand

But the giant's calling out my name
And he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
Time and time again. "Boy you'll never win!"
"You'll never win!"

But the stone was just the right size
To put the giant on the ground
And the waves they don't seem so high
From on top of them lookin' down
I will soar with the wings of eagles
When I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
Singing over me

I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

As promised, here’s the music video:

For me… as the song so eloquently puts it:

“I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth!”

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Under Attack

2010-06-01T01:12:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Memorial Day, a day set aside to remember and honor our nation’s war dead. I wrote a little something about Memorial Day in 2008, and rather than repeat myself, you can reference that entry via this link: Memorial Day 2008. All of us should recognize and salute the commitment of every man and woman currently serving in our armed services, and pray that their training will help protect them from the dangers and enemies they face.

Though our servicemen and servicewomen are trained and prepared to live under the constant threat of attack… most of the rest of us are not. Yet Satan is relentless in his campaigns and attacks against us. We are under his attacks from every direction.

Even this blog is under attack. Every week a new comment is posted from an anonymous Asian user; in Japanese. It’s not a comment about the latest post; it is in reality a series of links… links that would take you to a variety of Asian porn sites. Once I recognized the comments for what they really were, it was simple to merely delete them. But it remains under attack, and at least once a week I must delete offensive comments from the blog.

Our bodies are under attack, too: cancer, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, diabetes, arthritis, and plenty of mystery ailments… to name just a few of the attacks.

Our communities are under attack: terrorism, crumbling infrastructure, corrupt public servants, crime, unemployment, and crushing poverty.

Our world is under constant attack: earthquakes, storms, volcanoes, wars, deprivation, and hunger.

Imagery that attacks our morals, our values, and our sense of right and wrong pours into us from and unending flow being broadcast by television, radio, and the internet. Satan welcomes each new development in communication technology as another weapon to be aimed in our direction… to keep us under constant attack.

Why? What does the father of lies hope to accomplish with these continuous bombardments and attacks? Simple… he seeks to make us dive for cover, jump into a foxhole, build up the sandbags, and in our fear, turn away from God. If you put your faith in this world, if you put your faith in technology, if you put your faith in medical science, or even if you put your faith in your own strength… Satan is winning.

I need to constantly remind myself to take my eyes off Satan, and the works and devices of Satan, and fix my gaze faithfully on Jesus; on Jesus alone!

Jesus overcomes all of Satan’s attacks; not some, not most, but…

JESUS OVERCOMES ALL OF THE ATTACKS!

Jesus heals sickness, Jesus calms the storms, He changes hearts and casts out demons, and He has overcome death. Walking with Jesus, we walk with our Lord, our Savior, our Deliverer, and our Protector. When we invite Jesus into our heart, we never have to walk alone again. Though we still may walk in this calamitous and dangerous world, in Jesus we are no longer of it. Instead, we become more than conquerors, we become children of God and inheritors of God’s heavenly kingdom.

With my eyes off Satan and my eyes only on Jesus, Satan’s false illusions are little more than smoke and mirrors. Instead of a world of horrors, I see God’s people pouring out love, compassion, aid, and healing… into a broken world. I see a beautiful creation in endless variety and infinite complexity that gives glory to God the Creator. I see Jesus… who suffered for my sake, took my sins and shortcomings and covered them with His blood, and by His resurrection guarantees me eternal salvation. In the company of Jesus, I’m not pinned down under withering attacks, but I am free… I’m free, indeed!

Since we do live in this world, the attacks don’t stop. But in the company of Jesus, the attacks now have all the weight of a feather; as easily dealt with as deleting an inappropriate blog comment. The best thing about walking in faith with Jesus by your side is being able to step up to the battle front, pick up the wounded, and show them how Jesus can heal them, save them, and free them. In the company of Jesus we can do all things. Fear not!

Where are you under attack? Who leads you? I pray it’s Jesus!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Edify and Encourage

2010-05-23T18:18:00.000-07:00

My friend Monica recently sent me an email that was meant to encourage me. Monica is wonderful at offering encouragement, and she is pretty awesome at edification, too. I got her permission to use the message in the blog. As you read the following, notice how encouragement and edification produce joy!

I brought your heart situation to my Sunday school class and this evening to my choir for prayer. There are a lot of people who really know how to pray there.

Meanwhile I'm having an inordinate amount of fun with the bass guitar. Today Ken, the music minister who plays 7 or 10 instruments, pronounced that I'm doing fabulously! However, reality check; when I was buying the guitar and the amp, the people in the store who *really* know how to play, and how to set the amps for their playing, really did play wonderfully. The first amp I considered was too much for me; a matter of technique, it showed up everything especially the treble. The second one I can damp down more and besides it sounds almost mellow instead of real brassy or bright, which is more 'me' anyway. Then this evening I was a tad early to ladies ensemble (singers) and Ken was playing his electric guitar (I have never seen him with one, wonder if it's new, will ask tomorrow). He put in a CD and was playing to it; wow, wow is all I can say. It was extremely interesting to realize the patterns he was overlaying. Not merely accompanying. It was amazing, solo work. And yet he encourages me for my progress, without a hint of 'good for merely a few months' but instead 'really good'. Diehl's mother, the church organist who was *extremely* talented, used to say when she listened to her LP records of E. Power Biggs playing Bach, she felt as though she should just cut off her fingers, since she'd never be able to attain his level, the level she could hear and understand. So I am going to continue on and keep learning, even though I'm certainly no master at this. Such a blessing. Today at the bluegrass rehearsal, while we were eating beforehand, I said that I could still hardly take in that I am allowed to do this! And Ken said that's the way he feels, it's such a privilege for him to do all the music.

This evening Pastor Joel talked about Joy, and how the Spirit moves where He will, and that we cannot through willpower make ourselves full of joy, and that yet we are commanded to be filled with joy, to rejoice, and again I say rejoice! Because our God is worth everything. What a privilege to be His! You are one of the people I have met who just bubble over with joy of and in the Lord. I know that doesn't mean you don't have concerns about yourself and those you love, but your bubbly witness is a great encouragement.

Blessings
Monica

Monica so often hits the nail right on the head and she causes me to be humbled and excited when she accurately says: “What a privilege to be His!”

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Thank You, God!

2010-05-18T01:43:00.000-07:00

A big "thank you" to everybody that sent birthday wishes to me over the past few days. There were phone calls, emails, Facebook postings, Skype video conferencing, cards via snail-mail, and even a few birthday hugs.

I had an amazing birthday.

My great friend, Ray Rizo, surprised me by stopping by with a pizza for lunch. We shared it over a Netflix movie (The Kingdom). Wow! The Kingdom is a powerful story of our time, grabs you with the intensity of its action, draws you in with the humanity of its characters, and will haunt you with the irony of its ending. Ray and I agreed that the movie gave us a lot to consider. In the end, the message of Jesus is as valid (and desperately needed) today as it was when he first taught it to his disciples over 2,000 years ago: “Love one another.” See the movie, and see if you don’t agree.

In the late afternoon, I had an appointment with my good friend Dr. Jason Baietto. Jason is a brother in Christ, and a Wellness Chiropractor helping people balance their bodies through gentle chiropractic and balance their lives through fitness, nutrition, and stress management. I always feel some improvement when I visit Jason, but today was truly special. As Jason was adjusting my neck and spine, he held my neck in his hands and prayed over me. The peace and the comfort that flowed from the warmth of his heart, through his hands, and into my body was overwhelming!

I also got a bunch of snail-mail cards that actually arrived on my birthday. One was from my daughter, Jennifer, and my grandson, Jeffrey. Later, while on Skype with them, I held the card up to the camera and asked who drew the pictures on the card. Jeffrey brightened right up and proclaimed: “I drew that, Pop-pop!” Nothing will melt your heart faster than a grandchild, who is not quite 3, sing “Happy Birthday” to you.

My youngest daughter Wendy helped Patti put on a big spaghetti dinner (with meatballs). Patti and I have been married for almost 40 years (June 2011), so put in a good word for her when the Sainthood nominating committee comes around. She must be a saint... putting up with me for this long! There was cake (with candles), and a few surprise presents. We topped off the evening by teaching my son-in-law, Adam, how to play Hearts; the newbie beat all us old pros! Isn’t that typical?!?

God’s blessings continue to be the best gifts of all... I just need to open my eyes, and I am surrounded by riches and joy. Thank you, God!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Anchored or Propelled?

2010-05-15T13:09:00.000-07:00

Uplifting stories have a way of making the rounds… generation after generation. The following story is a popular Facebook post these days. I first saw it over 40 years ago, but some evidence indicates that this story of unknown origin may have originated hundreds of years ago.

A man walking by a construction site sees three men laying brinks. He says to the first one, “Whatcha doin?” and the guy says: “Geeze… I’m laying bricks, what does it look like?"

Then he asks the second guy, "Whatcha doin'?" and that guy says: "I'm working; I've got bills to pay. Scram!"

Finally, he asks the third guy, “Whatcha doin?” and the worker stops, looks up, looks around, smiles, and says: “I’m building a cathedral.”

While researching the origins of this story, I found a huge number of people that spent a lot of time, and many words, explaining its deeper meaning. Like the story itself, its meaning seems absurdly simple to me. Do you see yourself anchored to the perceived reality of menial tasks? Are you tied to the realities of the world… just getting by? Or are you propelled by a vision… do you see the bigger picture of what you do… of who you are… and of how you fit into God’s plan?

Take a minute, and ask yourself: What am I building for God’s kingdom? What vision propels me?

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Do-It-Yourself

2010-05-09T00:35:00.000-07:00

All I wanted to do was install a new faucet in the bathroom. It sure sounded easy from the description on the side of the new fixture. You’d think that by now, I’d have learned my lesson with plumbing… that it is always best left to the professionals! There is a plumbing maxim that has applied to every plumbing project (and most other home improvement projects, too): Any project will require at least 3 trips to the hardware store.

This project was no different. It seems that it’s impossible to replace just the faucet. Anything I touched… even just in passing… either broke, or started to leak in ways I had never seen before. Before I was done, the pressure fittings at the wall had to be replaced; the shut-off valves, the feed hoses, and the drain, too!

Who knew that grime, crud, and corrosion could be so structural?!?

Aren’t our lives like that, too? When we neglect our spiritual lives, grime, crud, and corrosion builds up. We don’t really notice it until we try to do something about it. But since we are unable to fix our own spiritual problems, all we do is make things worse… our lives seem to spring leaks everywhere. It sure seems easier to not disturb the grime and corrosion… even if our spiritual water pressure is close to zero.

Jesus doesn’t want to scrape the grime, crud, and corrosion off your heart. He doesn’t want to make you spring all kinds of new leaks in your life. If you call him, he won’t fix your heart, he will give you a new heart. A new heart with strong couplings, and connected to the water of life.

You’d think that you might not be able to afford God’s help. The good news is that Jesus has already paid your bill. Besides giving you a new heart, and connecting you to the water of life, he will also connect you in fellowship with others.

So call Him today, and then come connect with us on Sunday… or any other day, for that matter.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Still

2010-05-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

I'm dying. Well, not right away, but eventually. We all are. It comes with being human... once we are born, we start dying. Most of us don't live our lives like we were dying, though; we live our lives as though we expect to live forever.

I've been struggling with a health issue for months now. The doctors are all stumped. All the poking, prodding, measuring, testing, and other indignities they have put me through have yielded exactly zero information as to the cause of why I often feel like I'm about to pass out when I'm walking. It doesn't happen at any other time, or in any other situation... just walking... and it doesn't happen all the time. Usually, when it occurs, I just stop for a few seconds, the feeling passes, and then I continue on. There seems to be no discernable pattern or trigger. Sometimes I'll go for days without an occurrence; other times it happens with frightening regularity.

Now, at my age, I don’t care too much about being an athlete, but I would like to be able to play with my grandson, walk across our church campus, or even walk around the block… without worrying about passing out. There must be a lesson in all this for me. There is probably a lesson to the doctors, too. I just hope they figure out what their lesson is before I bump up against an expiration date.

I’ve prayed for years to be set free from gardening. My wife loves to garden, which happens to mean that she expects ME to cut, and prune, and weed, and dig, too. “Be careful what you pray for, as you just might get it.” Remember that old saying? Recently, I’ve been released from many of the yard work chores, but it’s not the sweet victory I had envisioned. Right now, I’d be happy to trade this mystery ailment for a continued lifetime of gardening and yard work.

Truly, you feel in bondage with something like this. I never know when I will feel its lash. I carry the weight and the burden of it, and it has robbed me of my freedom. Its random (but ever increasing) attacks are both disturbing and frightening. Each time I am attacked, I cry out to God to literally hold me up. He does, and… I continue on.

This week, while searching for something else, I bumped into this beautiful and powerful song by Reuben Morgan that helped me lose some of the anxiety I’d been feeling lately. There was instant recognition when I first heard this song, as these were the words my heart had been singing for months… OK, so perhaps not in quite so beautifully a poetic fashion… but close. [; )]

Still
by Hillsong United
Words and Music by Reuben Morgan

Hide me now
Under your wings
Cover me
Within your mighty hand

When the oceans rise and thunders roar
I will soar with you above the storm
Father you are king over the flood
I will be still and know you are God

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust

How are you under attack? Is it something physical, like me? Is it pressure with family? Are you under stress at work? Is school overwhelming? Is there an addiction that never ceases to torment you? In all these things, and more, the words of the song resonate with me:

Find rest my soul
In Christ alone
Know his power
In quietness and trust

I hope you enjoy hearing the song on the embedded video.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Artistic Voyage

2010-04-21T01:12:00.000-07:00

Come enjoy an evening of art and music on May 22, 2010
6:30 pm Gallery and 7:30 pm concert

From its very beginnings, the Christian church has been a place of fellowship. Over the centuries, that fellowship has often reflected the character of geography, society, customs, traditions, and the spiritual gifts of God’s people. Christian fellowship expands into church life to include communal worship, prayer, study, teaching, sharing, giving, and more. There is this fellowship in virtually every aspect of the church… from building projects, to building maintenance… from sharing of resources, to sharing of time and talent… and from loving God to loving one another.

At Messiah Lutheran Church in Yorba Linda, California, the members (partners in ministry, as they call themselves) have a long history of sharing their time, and their amazing talents. The Messiah Fine Arts Ministry gives youth and adults an opportunity to develop and share their acting and dramatic gifts with the congregation and the community while working cooperatively to produce high quality stage presentations. There is also an excellent adult choir and an amazing children’s choir called Soul’d Out that is a performing arts group for grades K-6. Both the children’s music program and the adult choir are key parts of Messiah’s commitment to music as an important part of worship. All age groups have regular opportunities to contribute their gift of music to worship services and other special events. There are literally dozens of ways artistic gifts manifest themselves at Messiah: audio-visual presentations (which include worship materials, photography, and video), set building, architecture, construction, electronic media, music, drama, and art… to name just a few.

Messiah’s fellowship extends much further than their campus in North Orange County, as they support dozens of local charities, relief efforts, benevolence, and partnerships with other organizations and churches. In addition, the people of Messiah have a global vision to match their local efforts, and as such, support missions in Uganda, Peru, Mexico, and global missions throughout the world through the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). Messiah is also home and patron to a developing cultural and artistic center in North Orange County where people can celebrate music and art.

Artistic Voyage is a Yorba Linda-based classical music and art exposition series with a worldwide vision. The series uses the transformative power of music and art to inspire people from all walks of life to unite behind a common purpose to make a difference in the world. A portion of the proceeds from each event within the series are donated to worthwhile humanitarian causes throughout the world.

Imagine for a moment the church as concert hall and art gallery. It’s not all that difficult to do if you’ve toured the great cathedrals and basilicas of Europe. The church as patron of the arts is one theme that has persisted in the church for centuries. Imagine an evening of art and music to bring attention, benefit, and give hope to worthwhile causes.

Each month, a new Artistic Voyage transforms the walls of Messiah’s Life Center into new and exciting artistic visions. During the gallery opening, patrons have the opportunity to stroll through the gallery, chat with the artists, enjoy a glass of wine and tasty hors D'oeuvres, and perhaps acquire a bit of fine art at a reasonable price.

As the gallery showing concludes, the Artistic Voyage continues in Messiah’s Worship Center; transformed for the evening into an intimate concert hall. Different world class musicians, bring their talent and musical artistry to each unique concert performance. Musicians from the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Julliard School, the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and the Colburn Conservatory, are just a few of the artists that bring great music to life in these incredible concerts.

One of the key ingredients that make the Artistic Voyage series so successful is world renowned pianist, Yana Reznik; founder and director of the Artistic Voyage series. She has been described critically as: “Phenomenal talent… expressing the extremes of human experience with textural refinement and blistering virtuosity.” Originally from Moscow, she has performed as a recitalist, chamber musician, and soloist with orchestras throughout North America, Europe, and Russia. In 2004, she gave a sold-out Carnegie Hall debut performance in New York as winner of the Artists International Competition. Ms. Reznik is also the choir director and organist for Messiah Lutheran Church in Yorba Linda; the host of the Artistic Voyage series.

Each Artistic Voyage event brings a focus on a different humanitarian cause. These have included Giving Children Hope (GCHope), St. Jude Medical Center’s Care for the Poor Program, and in May… Hope 4 Kid’s International’s: Hope for Women. Not only do a portion of the proceeds go toward the selected cause, but the humanitarian organizations are highlighted and have the opportunity to reach potential future donors and supporters.

Every event in the Artistic Voyage series has lived up to the billing: An evening of art and music to benefit a worthy cause. The next event is scheduled for May 22nd, 2010 and is billed as: Classical Gone Jazz. Tickets are only $20 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets, gallery and concert times, performance details, artists, and Hope for Women information can be found online at:

http://www.artisticvoyage.org/

There are only a limited number of tickets available for each Artistic Voyage series event, so get yours today. Bring your sense of wonder and love of beauty, and bring oxygen, too… the art and the music are certain to take your breath away! I’ll see you there.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave Hoag

God’s Creative Spirit

2010-04-17T02:33:00.000-07:00

Wednesday nights are really special to me. Every Wednesday (well, almost) I am blessed with the opportunity to hang out with a bunch of fun, delightful, exciting, and insightful people… as we study and open ourselves to God’s Holy Spirit while delving into His Holy Word. In other words: we meet for Bible study. Pastor Ron usually leads us, often sets us up for amazing revelations, and always challenges us to think, consider, and be open to the Holy Spirit. Schedules being what they are, the attendance fluctuates a bit, but… overall it is a very faithful study group.

Sara Stuckenberg is a part of our study group. She is not just a church member, or even a partner in ministry… she is a disciple of Christ. On Wednesday nights, we study for about an hour and a half. That time flies by so fast, that many of us usually hang around “in discussion” for a while. Recently, Sara was telling us about some Spirit-led art she had created. Knowing how well she writes and organizes her thoughts, I asked Sara to send me the pictures and some descriptive prose for the blog. So… today I share Sara with you. Enjoy!

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Though I do believe the gift of visions is still an active gift of the Spirit, I have only recently begun to explore what this gift looks like. Though I rarely paint, and have no talent as a artist, every once in a while I began to feel as though images or “visions” (if you can call them that) come to me as a gift from God with a story to tell. Sometimes they arrive during a favorite song or in the course of silent prayer; it always seems God imprints these images on my mind and moves me to complete them.

So, here are two of my most recent images. The person with the heart and cross I call: “Life from the Love of Christ.” The image came one Sunday morning during a sermon on love. A comment was made about how the love of God and Christ comes forth from within, almost exploding from your chest… and suddenly I had this image in my mind. It was powerful to watch this image unfold with the light of the love of God shining from within a grey person in a dark space. The original painting sits in my bedroom and is a constant reminder that the love of God and Christ is what really gives us life and light to the world.

The 2nd painting came during the song it is named after: “Lead Me to the Cross.” While singing this song a few weeks ago, I closed my eyes to hear God, and poof… this image appeared. It took me a while to draw it because sometimes the image provides an optical illusion and honestly, crosses are hard to line up straight. I remember thinking... “If I am truly living for the Cross, I leave it all behind me, all my sin and sorrows and frustrations...” and that is where I got the black mess from at the bottom. Obviously the cross and what Jesus did for us is what stands out and truly… the light symbolizes us drawing into the death and resurrection of Christ. Once again, the person becomes a shiny grey “essence”, pointing to the lost and undefined character of our selves.

I believe deep down a 3rd painting is near, and will somehow connect all three paintings together. Though faint images have appeared in my mind, nothing has stood out. God always surprises me though, on his timing and with his love; with his talents and his created masterpieces.

Thanks Be to God!
Shalom In Christ!
-Sara

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How about you? I have published lots of stuff from lots of people. How has God’s Holy Spirit inspired you in your writing, in music, in art, in photography, or in video? Since there are infinite ways that God inspires us, I’m pretty sure I left out a couple of ways YOU might have been inspired by God. Don’t be shy. Don’t hide your light under a bushel basket. Share it with us. Share your inspiration as a comment, or… if you want to include additional media, send it to me for consideration as a blog post (check out my profile on how to contact me).

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Overcoming the Blues

2010-04-13T18:20:00.000-07:00

On Sunday, Pastor Ron Baesler was talking about the let-down that comes right after Easter. His message included him reciting his original Easter Blues. Being a fellow poet, I immediately wanted to post it on the blog, so… as Jeff Askew softly played a blues riff in the background, this is what Pastor Ron recited to the congregation:

Losing your job? Losing your lover? Gotta be singin’ them blues.
Waiting too long for economy to recover? Gotta be singin’ them blues.
Down in the dumps, takin’ your lumps? Gotta be singin’ them blues.

You know, the blues are music full of tears and sighin’,
Mournful low down music full of weepin’ and dyin’
Strange music, I know, to start an after Easter address
But trust me, this is more than just a pastor’s silly madness

Easters come and Easters go. Has anything ever changed? Does anyone really know?

Most of us got way up for this Easter season
We dressed pretty, did some cheerin’ …and all for good reason
The Lord had risen, the day was bright,
Yes, last Sunday was lily white…
But today sad to say, some of us are singing the blues.

Some of us got the grumps, the down in the dumps, the nothing ever changes blues.
Easters come and Easters go. Has anything ever changed? Does anyone really know?

I’ve stopped watching TV news; it always gives me the impression
That God is losing, the devil is winning; it drags me into depression.
It seems more people are angry these days; they all seem bent out a shape,
Instead of engaging and digging into life, they all are trying to escape.

Easters come and Easters go. Has anything ever changed? Does anyone really know?

Now I’m a Christian, and a pastor, and I believe in the resurrection
But neither my titles nor my believing give me any guaranteed protection
From those gloomy grumps, the bitter down in the dumps,
The nothin’ ever changes after every bloomin’ Easter blues.

Ron always challenges us to examine our thinking, our emotions, and our direction.

Easter; so what’s the big deal? It’s great that Christ died for our sins. I mean… REALLY… big deal! So He’s our savior?!? What’s really changed in my life from the days before Easter to the days after Easter? What’s really changed in YOUR life? Shouldn’t all this change something? How come our lives are still such a mess?

If you read my last blog post, you might remember that I mentioned that ANYBODY can be a savior. Of course, nobody but Jesus could be a savior of the entire world, but let’s ignore that for a moment. Let’s say you got pushed out of the way of a runaway truck, or saved from drowning, or given CPR after a heart attack. Certainly, you’d be grateful to your savior (rescuer), but your life probably wouldn’t change much because you got saved. So whatever was screwed up, unhappy, and out of kilter in your life is still screwed up, unhappy, and out of kilter.

Spoiler alert! Don’t read any further if you don’t want your life to change. Stop reading now if you don’t want to hear the Good News… if you don’t want to know the end of the story.

On Good Friday, Jesus died on the cross as our savior, but on Easter he rose from the dead. He has defeated sin and death (one in the same)! He is our conquering Lord! If you only recognize Jesus as your savior, don’t expect any change in your life. He calls to us, for us to make Him lord of our lives, as he called many times to Peter:

“Follow me!” - John 21:19

As Lord, Jesus calls gently to each of us to follow him. Only when we submit in faith to Jesus as lord of our lives will our lives change. If we still have the last word on what we do in our lives, then Jesus is not our Lord. It is necessary to open the door to your heart, and let Jesus take over.

“Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him, and he with me.” - Revelation 3:20

With Jesus as Lord, your life WILL change. It may not get easier, but it will change. There is no description I can give you that will allow you to comprehend the incredible joy that is in a life where Jesus is Lord. With Jesus as Lord, there is no post-Easter letdown… there are no day-after blues. With Jesus as Lord, Easter is just another celebration… a remembrance… a tradition. With Jesus as Lord, every day brings new joy… as we follow Him.

If all this is NEWS to you, start a conversation with your pastor, or contact me, or just talk to me (if you find yourself on the Messiah campus). Don’t let another minute go by only knowing Jesus as savior… Jesus wants you to have the abundant life that God has planed for you… if only you accept Him as Lord.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Your Savior… or your Lord?

2010-04-04T02:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

I know that Easter Sunday is filled with all kinds of commitments for you. There’s probably sunrise service, singing with the choir, putting on an Easter breakfast, setting out baskets and eggs for Easter egg hunts, hosting family and friends, and many other things that I haven’t even thought to include in my incomplete list. But before you turn away from reading this to bite the ears off a chocolate bunny, consider the following this Easter:

“A person can become a savior by dying, while saving your life. But they must be ALIVE to be LORD, because a Lord is in charge - He has the ONLY VOTE! If Jesus had NOT risen from the dead, would your life be different? Are you ONLY taking advantage of His death, as your Savior, or also His Resurrection, by making Him LORD?”
- Mark Gorman

As Lutherans, I like to think that we know Christ as Savior, but that we walk with Him daily as Lord. There is a deep truth in the greeting and response that Lutherans give each other on Easter:

“Christ has risen.”
“He has risen, indeed!”

Happy Easter!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The quote by Mark Gorman comes from the teachings in his book, "The 3 Heavens" on Spiritual Warfare. Mark is a friend of mine that I’ve often quoted. You can find more information, as well as his books and resources at http://www.markgorman.com/.

Singing with the Lutherans

2010-03-22T02:26:00.000-07:00

SINGING WITH THE LUTHERANS
by Garrison Keillor

I have made fun of Lutherans for years - who wouldn't, if you lived in Minnesota? But I have also sung with Lutherans and that is one of the main joys of life, along with hot baths and fresh sweet corn. We make fun of Lutherans for their blandness, their excessive calm, their fear of giving offense, their lack of speed and also for their secret fondness for macaroni and cheese. But nobody sings like them. If you ask an audience in New York City, a relatively Lutheranless place, to sing along on the chorus of Michael Row the Boat Ashore, they will look daggers at you as if you had asked them to strip to their underwear. But if you do this among Lutherans they'll smile and row that boat ashore and up on the beach! And down the road!

Lutherans are bred from childhood to sing in four-part harmony. It's a talent that comes from sitting on the lap of someone singing alto or tenor or bass and hearing the harmonic intervals by putting your little head against that person's rib cage. It's natural for Lutherans to sing in harmony. We're too modest to be soloists, too worldly to sing in unison. When you're singing in the key of C and you slide into the A7th and D7th chords, all two hundred of you, it's an emotionally fulfilling moment.

I once sang the bass line of Children of the Heavenly Father in a room with about three thousand Lutherans in it; and when we finished, we all had tears in our eyes, partly from the promise that God will not forsake us, partly from the proximity of all those lovely voices. By our joining in harmony, we somehow promise that we will not forsake each other. I do believe this: People, these Lutherans, who love to sing in four-part harmony, are the sort of people you could call up when you're in deep distress. If you're dying, they'll comfort you. If you're lonely, they'll talk to you. And if you're hungry, they'll give you tuna salad!

The following list was compiled by a 20th century Lutheran who, observing other Lutherans, wrote down exactly what he saw or heard:

Lutherans believe in prayer, but would practically die if asked to pray out loud.
Lutherans like to sing, except when confronted with a new hymn or a hymn with more than four stanzas.
Lutherans believe their pastors will visit them in the hospital, even if they don't notify them that they are there.
Lutherans usually follow the official liturgy and will feel it is their way of suffering for their sins.
Lutherans believe in miracles and even expect miracles, especially during their stewardship visitation programs or when passing the plate.
Lutherans feel that applauding for their children's choirs would make the kids too proud and conceited.
Lutherans think that the Bible forbids them from crossing the aisle while passing the peace.
Lutherans drink coffee as if it were the Third Sacrament.
Some Lutherans still believe that an ELCA bride and an LCMS groom make for a mixed marriage.
Lutherans feel guilty for not staying to clean up after their own wedding reception in the Fellowship Hall.
Lutherans are willing to pay up to one dollar for a meal at church.
Lutherans think that Garrison Keillor stories are totally factual.
Lutherans still serve Jell-O in the proper liturgical color of the season and think that peas in a tuna noodle casserole add too much color.
Lutherans believe that it is OK to poke fun at themselves and never take themselves too seriously.

And finally, you know when you're a Lutheran when:

It is 100 degrees, with 90% humidity, and you still have coffee after the service.
You hear something really funny during the sermon and smile as loudly as you can!
Donuts are a line item in the church budget, just like coffee.
The communion cabinet is open to all, but the coffee cabinet is locked up tight.
All your relatives graduated from a school named Concordia.
When you watch a ‘Star Wars’ movie and they say, “May the Force be with you”, you respond, “and also with you”.
You actually understand those folks from Lake Wobegon, MN.
And lastly, it takes ten minutes to say good-bye

-------------------------------------------

This is as funny today as when Garrison Keillor first collected these musings about Lutherans prior to January of 2005. Some things are still true to this day. Lutherans DO poke fun at themselves, and they DON’T take themselves too seriously. I especially love the part (and know it to be totally true) about Lutherans being “the sort of people you could call up when you're in deep distress. If you're dying, they'll comfort you. If you're lonely, they'll talk to you. And if you're hungry, they'll give you tuna salad!”

Here’s a thought: Why not come sing with us Lutherans? I’ll be looking for you on Sunday!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Encountering Grace

2010-03-14T23:10:00.000-07:00

I encountered Grace today; what an incredible blessing!

I had just finished up with the Sunday school opening. This morning, I had a lot of ground to cover with the kids. The lesson touched on Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the clearing of the temple, the Last Supper, the Garden of Gethsemane, Judas’ betrayal, and the arrest of Jesus. It was way too much to cover in my allotted 10-15 minutes, so I had to pick my battles. I asked who could tell me about Palm Sunday, and one of the 4th graders gave a description that would have made a Pastor proud. Whew! No need for me to cover that, so I had them repeat the key verse of the day (John 15: 12-13), and then I launched into my story of how Jesus cleared the temple.

I had set up a table in the front with piles and stacks of poker chips. And I explained how the whole money-changing business worked: According to the Temple priests, real money was unacceptable to God, so you had to change your money into temple money… for a slight fee of course. I took out my ancient bull whip, but bits have snapped off over the years, it is half the length it used to be, and it just won’t crack anymore… no matter how hard you try. As a matter of fact, all I succeeded in doing was to whip my backside… to the amusement of all the kids.

I set the whip aside, and picked up a well wrung out, wet dish towel I had borrowed from the kitchen and rolled it into a tight rat-tail. I told the kids how the Bible says that Jesus wove a whip from cords, but that lots of things make for good whips… like the towel. Their laughter at my seemingly ridiculous statement gave way to surprised gasps when I snapped it at the edge of the table and got a loud “CRACK!”

Wide eyes were glued on me as I bellowed the words of Jesus as he overturned the tables of the money changers:

“My house will be called a house of prayer, but you are making it a den of robbers.”
- Matthew 21:13

CRACK… went my whip, and money chips went flying like mini-Frisbees for 30 feet in every direction!

CRACK… went my whip again, and money chips exploded off the table to rain down on all the children!

And then… the chips were everywhere, as I lifted the table by one end, and overturned it by flipping it upside-down!

The kids were surprised that Jesus could become angry. I asked them: “Who was he angry with?”

They replied: “He was angry at the robbers in God’s house.”

In the end, as the children helped pick up the scattered chips, they each got to keep one. We called it temple money, and they kept a piece as a reminder that God doesn’t want us to bring special ‘holy’ money, sacred birds, or blessed offerings when we pray to Him. God only wants our hearts; nothing else is required.

After a prayer, an offering, and a final song, the kids all go off with their teachers to their classrooms to work on the rest of their Sunday school lessons for the day. I had packed up my stuff, and was heading out of the Life Center, when I noticed a man with a little toddler. It looked like he had come from the service, and I began to tell him about the wonderful child care available just at the other end of the building. He smiled, and said that his daughter didn’t want to go into child care… she wanted to be in with her big brother’s first-grade Sunday school class. As a matter of fact, that’s exactly what she voiced (quite loudly, too) as they peered through the glass into his classroom.

I told her that all the Sunday school children got a piece of temple money today, and asked if she’d like a piece, too? She nodded, followed me to my bag of chips, and selected one for her very own. Now she was content to follow me and her Dad back out into the courtyard. There I discovered a bright, articulate, inquisitive, happy, and polite little girl of just 21 months.

This then, is the story of how I encountered Grace.

Mom soon joined us, and immediately wondered why her daughter was clutching a poker chip. I told her about the lesson (but without the dramatic special effects), and she was delighted. As Grace went off with her father in search of a donut, Grace walked up to me, pointed her little finger right at me, and said: “Thank YOU!”

At that instant, a thought washed over me… “This is exactly how we often encounter God’s grace.” Sudden… unexpected… pure… and it fills you with an uncontainable joy!

The little girl was living up to her name. Awesome!

Then another thought struck me… here was a bright, intelligent, and joy-filled girl… worthy of my awesome 2 and a half year old grandson. No betrothal has been announced yet, but… you never know.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

By the way… here’s a portrait of Grace and her family. Make sure you say “hi” to them on Sunday.

Living under Pharaoh

2010-03-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago, I overheard a snippet of a conversation. I was in front of the Worship Center, on my way to the Life Center to be part of the Sunday school opening. Since I know almost everybody (at least in passing), I often find myself overhearing multiple conversations at once… especially in the hubbub between Sunday services.

The gist of what I heard sounded fairly political, and as I already said, I only heard a tiny portion of the conversation. A command and a question stuck in my head, though. The command: “read Genesis 47.” The question: “Do you think we are in danger of living under Pharaoh right now?” When I got home, I just HAD to open my Bible to Genesis and read Chapter 47.

The condensed version of Genesis 47 is the story of Joseph administering Egypt during the time of the famine. During the 7 years of plenty, Joseph (in the name of Pharaoh) had taxed the people 20% (one fifth) of what they produced. This was stored up in the cities in anticipation of the coming famine. Remember Pharaoh’s dreams? Look in Genesis 41 for the back story. What’s really impressive is the amount that was collected. In Genesis 41:49 the Bible states:

Joseph stored up huge quantities of grain, like the sand of the sea; it was so much that he stopped keeping records because it was beyond measure.

When the famine came it was severe, but Egypt was prepared. As the famine spread over all the land Joseph opened the storehouses and sold grain to the Egyptians. Not only did he sell grain to the Egyptians, but to all the countries, as the famine was severe in the entire world.

Because of the famine, people were buying grain but unable to produce anything, so eventually their money ran out. They came to Joseph and begged him for food, lest they die. Joseph agreed to sell them food in exchange for their livestock. When the livestock was exhausted, the people sold themselves and their land to Pharaoh. Joseph gave them food to eat and grain to plant, and required that 20% of their harvest be returned to Pharaoh. This was the same deal they had during the years of abundance… expect now all the money, livestock, and land belonged to Pharaoh, and all of the people were now living (willingly) in bondage under Pharaoh.

Ok, now on to the question: Are we living under Pharaoh now? I predict (only somewhat jokingly) that many people would welcome paying only 20% in taxes. I’m sure many people would point to Social Security, government bailouts, federal jobs programs, and universal healthcare to make their point that the United States is already living under Pharaoh. I’m not so sure.

I think that the story of Joseph has been replayed over and over throughout history. I bet you can come up with many examples. People end up living under Pharaoh… in bondage to Pharaoh… when they turn away from God and look only to human rulers to save them.

Just substitute government for Pharaoh.

We beg government to bail us out of a financial famine. The government bails out car companies and ends up owning the companies. The government bails out banks and ends up owning the banks. Does that sound familiar?

We see a famine coming at us as we age and can no longer work, so beg government to save us. It taxes us to store up for future years of famine, and then it taxes what it pays out. Sound familiar?

A famine of joblessness sweeps over the land and we beg government to save us. Government creates jobs, and suddenly the people are in bondage to government.

But none of that could possibly happen to us, right? God has warned us of the consequences of living under Pharaoh. Surely we will heed God’s warnings, and not live under Pharaoh.

Who is Pharaoh, anyway? In the original story, he is the ruler of Egypt; a divine entity. His word was law and his every wish was to be carried out without question. Throughout history, kings, emperors, and tyrants have claimed to be divine… or at least claimed a divine right to rule over their subjects. It’s almost too easy for these rulers to get their people to willingly hand themselves over to them and into bondage.

When people turn away from God, and look instead to an earthly king to feed, protect, or save them, they have already turned themselves over to Pharaoh. But Pharaoh hides behind many guises. He goes by many names. Whatever his name, his goal is still the total enslavement of people. Fear, addiction, shame, lust, hatred… does one of these Pharaohs hold you in bondage? Usually, we don’t need to look as far away as the government to find a Pharaoh. Often he finds us; right in our home, our workplace, or even in our churches.

With Easter fast approaching, we need to remember that Christ died to free us from sin and death AND bondage! He’s already paid the terrible price to redeem you. Whatever it was that holds you enslaved to Pharaoh, Jesus has already paid for your release. Look up. Take Christ’s hand and let him lift you out of the slave pit.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Celebrate Your Gifts

2010-02-28T03:38:00.000-08:00

Recently, I have been in situations where people demanded that I perform or respond in a certain way; specifically… their way. Has that ever happened to you?

For most of us, these demanding people come in an astonishing number of personas. They are parents, siblings, spouses, children, co-workers, church members, neighbors, and even complete strangers. These often well-meaning folks usually pressure us with a fairly effective weapon. The club they swing most often is: GUILT.

A difficult thing to remember is that God directs and guides us with love, NOT guilt. People are busy whacking away at each other with guilt, but mostly to get you to do something they want. Or they want you to act or conform to a certain expectation.

Now I KNOW that God has blessed me with an abundance of gifts; both physical and spiritual. I’m also quite aware that God hasn’t blessed me with EVERY gift. Just as I know that I’m not gifted as a jockey or basketball player, I know that I’m also not gifted as a caregiver or a chef.

Here’s an important tip: we all don’t have the same gifts!

What are your gifts? It’s often easier to discern your physical gifts than your spiritual ones. In the past, I might have encouraged you to develop your gifts. And there’s nothing wrong with developing your gifts, but I believe that there’s plenty of evidence that God will fill you with giftedness when you are involved in the plans he has for you. Besides the example of Moses and all the Prophets, take a look at Jeremiah 1:6-10. Listen to where God might be leading you.

And remember: you don’t like it when somebody dumps a load of guilt on you (I know I sure don’t). So resolve to lay guilt aside. Don’t use it against anyone, and don’t let anybody use it against you. The God of the universe yearns for an intimate relationship with you. Celebrate the plans God has for your life… how YOU are part of God’s plan, and celebrate… and share… your gifts!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Intelligent Design

2010-02-20T03:23:00.000-08:00

Every so often somebody sends me a neat little examination of numbers (I’ll get to that in a minute). After having explored the Mandelbrot Set in the eighties, I have definitely been able to see the imprint of an intelligent creator in the mathematical fundamentals of Chaos Theory.

The Mandelbrot Set… what is THAT?

Back in 1985, my friend, Mark Lehman, and I began an exploration of something wonderful. Scientific American had published an article about the Mandelbrot Set and the emerging science of Chaos Theory. It was heady stuff! We read about a number set within the complex number plane which contained an infinite variety of images; images which were amazingly compelling. Seemingly, every image in the natural world could be found replicated within this thing... this Mandelbrot Set.

It’s interesting to note that it is only the computational power of computers that allows us to explore the mathematical underpinnings built into the entire universe… from life cycles to galaxies! A genuine understanding of the math is what steers mathematicians and scientists to see what they call “intelligent design”. Such a breathtaking mathematical ordering of every system in the universe could not be chance, but could only come from the hand of an awesome creator!

One of the most poetic descriptions of the Mandelbrot set is still one of the finest:

“The Mandelbrot set broods in silent complexity at the center of a vast two-dimensional sheet of numbers called the complex plane. When a certain operation is applied repeatedly to the numbers, the ones outside the set flee to infinity. The numbers inside remain to drift or dance about. Close to the boundary minutely choreographed wanderings mark the onset of the instability. Here is an infinite regress of detail that astonishes us with its variety, its complexity and its strange beauty.”

- A. K. Dewdney, Scientific American, August 1985

To try and put the mathematics in laymen’s terms, let’s consider first that the boundary of the Mandelbrot set is an example of a fractal. A fractal is a mathematical object that is self-similar at every level of magnification. Nowhere will you find a fractal with more intricacy and complexity than the Mandelbrot set. And somehow, this infinite complexity is the product of a ridiculously simple formula. The representation of the Mandelbrot set at first appears to be nothing but an ugly bug with warts. But when you zoom in on its edges, incredibly intricate patterns begin to emerge. Spirals, jellyfish, bow ties, and many other beautiful, bizarre objects abound in infinite numbers on the edge of the Mandelbrot set. And everywhere you look, at every level of magnification, miniature versions of the Mandelbrot set keep popping up.

Here’s a quick trip into a tiny segment of the infinite beauty of the Mandelbrot Set:

Now, as promised, here is a neat little examination of numbers. Some of you will pull out your calculator to check on these computations (I know I did), but it all works out. This is really cool and fun. Consider for a moment…

The Beauty of Mathematics!

1 x 8 + 1 = 9

12 x 8 + 2 = 98

123 x 8 + 3 = 987

1234 x 8 + 4 = 9876

12345 x 8 + 5 = 98765

123456 x 8 + 6 = 987654

1234567 x 8 + 7 = 9876543

12345678 x 8 + 8 = 98765432

123456789 x 8 + 9 = 987654321

1 x 9 + 2 = 11

12 x 9 + 3 = 111

123 x 9 + 4 = 1111

1234 x 9 + 5 = 11111

12345 x 9 + 6 = 111111

123456 x 9 + 7 = 1111111

1234567 x 9 + 8 = 11111111

12345678 x 9 + 9 = 111111111

123456789 x 9 +10= 1111111111

9 x 9 + 7 = 88

98 x 9 + 6 = 888

987 x 9 + 5 = 8888

9876 x 9 + 4 = 88888

98765 x 9 + 3 = 888888

987654 x 9 + 2 = 8888888

9876543 x 9 + 1 = 88888888

98765432 x 9 + 0 = 888888888

Brilliant, isn't it?

And look at this symmetry:

1 x 1 = 1

11 x 11 = 121

111 x 111 = 12321

1111 x 1111 = 1234321

11111 x 11111 = 123454321

111111 x 111111 = 12345654321

1111111 x 1111111 = 1234567654321

11111111 x 11111111 = 123456787654321

111111111 x 111111111 = 12345678987654321

Mind Boggling...

Now, take a look at this...

What does it mean to give MORE than 100%?

From a strictly mathematical viewpoint:

What Equals 100%?

Ever wonder about those people who say they

are giving more than 100%?

We have all been in situations where someone wants you to

GIVE OVER 100%...

How about ACHIEVING 101%?

What equals 100% in life?

Here's a little mathematical formula that might help

answer these questions:

If:

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Is represented as:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26

Then:

H-A-R-D-W-O-R-K

8+1+18+4+23+15+18+11 = 98%

And:
K-N-O-W-L-E-D-G-E

11+14+15+23+12+5+4+7+ 5 = 96%

But…

A-T-T-I-T-U-D-E

1+20+20+9+20+21+4+5 = 100%

THEN, look how far the love of God will take you:

L-O-V-E-O-F-G-O-D

12+15+22+5+15+6+7+15+4 = 101%

Therefore, one can conclude with mathematical certainty that:

While Hard Work and Knowledge will get you close,

And Attitude will get you there,

It’s the Love of God that will put you over the top!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This last bit is fun, and can be used to encourage us, but it is just one of many substitution games that people play with words and numbers to produce a result that they want to achieve. Do you really believe that God created mathematics and set the universe in motion, so that we could try to fool people about the nature of God with parlor tricks?

With just a few seconds of tweaking, I can use the same trick to produce the answer to the question:

How can we achieve salvation?

I-N-C-H-R-I-S-T

and that is

9+14+3+8+18+9+19+20 = 100%

Yes, we do achieve salvation in Christ, but Jesus commands us to love one another… not trick one another! The bit about hard work, knowledge, attitude, and the love of God is fun, but it is a trick of man… not to be confused with the awesome building blocks of God’s incredible creation… that we dimly perceive as mathematics and science.

This week, as you worship and pray, open your eyes to the awesome wonder and beauty of God’s creation… of which you are a most beloved part. Can you sense the world spinning in its orbit around the sun? Think about our solar system being a speck in the rotating spiral arm of a galaxy. It is just as impossible for you to detect our galaxy’s flight through the universe, as it would be for you to detect the orbit of a single electron about an atom somewhere in your body. We are fearfully and wonderfully made!

In that infinite vastness… whether out to the unimaginable scope of the universe, or inward to the strange atomic forces that are just as unimaginable… in all of that creation God loves you. In all of that infinity, God knows just where you are. Open up your heart, let Christ in, and begin a real relationship with the creator and sustainer of the universe!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

All I Have to Offer

2010-02-10T04:18:00.000-08:00

What do you say to someone who has just suffered the death of a child... or a parent… or a dear friend? My words always feel so clumsy when I try to console someone who has suffered a loss of a dear loved one. I assure them that they are in my thoughts and prayers, as I’m sure they already know. But that always sounds so hollow to me. A hug, a smile, and a shoulder to lean on, or cry on, are all I really have to offer.

Jesus, on the other hand, offers so much more! He not only stands with us, comforts us, and supports us, but he has bridged the chasm that separated us from God. He didn’t do that for himself… he did it for us… he did it for you!

This week, the words to the contemporary Christian song 'I Have Been There' keep echoing in my head. I find this song by Mark Schultz to be very uplifting, so here’s the video… followed by the awesome lyrics:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fX20vnf5hH4

I Have Been There

By Mark Shultz

In a room without a view
A new mother smiles and holds the tiny fingers
Of her brand new baby girl
Her husband takes her by the hand
So unsure about the future and no money
Can they make it in this world
And they pray, Lord all we have to give is love
Then they heard a gentle voice
Like an echo from above

Oh I have been there
I know what fear is all about
Yes, I have been there
And I am standing with you now
I have been there
And I came to build a bridge oh so this road could
Lead you home
Oh I have been there

He'd been a pastor twenty years
But tonight he sits alone and brokenhearted
In the corner of the church
He's tried to change a fallen world
With his words and with his wisdom
But it seems like it is only getting worse
And he cries
Oh Lord I just don't understand
And then he felt the hand of grace,
And he heard a voice that said

I have been there
I know what pain is all about
Yes, I have been there
And I am standing with you now
I have been there
And I came to build to a bridge oh so
This road could lead you home
Oh I have been there

An older man up on a hill
Holding flowers but he can't hold back the tears
He has come to say goodbye
He thinks about the life she lived
Thinks about how hard it's been
To live without her
Sixty years right by his side
And he cries, Oh Lord I loved her
'til the end
Then he heard a gentle voice say you'll see her once again

I have been there
I know what sorrow is all about
Yes, I have been there
And I am standing with you now
I have been there
And I came to build a bridge
Oh so this road could lead her home
The road could lead her home
Oh I have been there

Well I overcame the cross
I have been there
So her life would not be lost
I have been there
And I came to build a bridge
Oh so this road could lead you home
The road could lead you home
Oh I have been there

Are you in pain? Are you frustrated or depressed? Are you grieving? Are you worried about the future? Messiah Lutheran Church in Yorba Linda is a fellowship in Christ full of folks who ‘have been there’. I invite you to come meet us. I guarantee that besides being welcomed into our fellowship, you will make connections with people that will change your life and lift you up. We are a people that proclaim on our fountain: “Love One Another.” Drop by the sanctuary on Saturday evening, or Sunday morning, stop by the office, or catch up with me in the parking lot.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave Hoag

How to Pray

2010-02-01T15:42:00.000-08:00

Jesus taught his disciples in many ways. Often he would use parables to teach them with stories they could understand. In Mathew 6:9-13, however, he gives his disciples (and us) very specific instructions when they ask him how they should pray. He tells them:

This, then, is how you should pray:

“Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us today our daily bread.
Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.”

I was teaching this to the children this morning, and in doing so, several revelations about prayer came to me. As so often is the case for me, the children are the catalyst in this process. I think I am teaching them, but through them, God teaches me.

This prayer that Jesus has given us is something completely new in the world. It is a different way to approach God. Let’s break it down:

1. Focus.
"Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven."

Jesus shows us where our focus should be directed: on our Father in heaven. On our Father in heaven whose name is hallowed… sacred, divine, and holy! He also reminds us that as God’s will is respected and obeyed in heaven, so it should also be respected and obeyed here on earth.

That got me to thinking, and I asked the kids: “Should we pray to God to have his will be done for the things we pray for? For example, if I pray: ‘I want a pony. I want a pony. I want a pony. I want a pony. I want a pony.’ Can I change God’s will… by chanting my will over and over?”

Even the kindergarten kids knew the answer to that question: NO! God’s will be done… not mine. And yet, so many times we chant our will (in prayer) to God hoping to save a loved one, get a promotion, land a job, rain destruction down on our enemies, or get some other form of ‘pony’. Jesus clearly wants us to pray in such a way as to fit ourselves into God’s will.

2. Faith.
"Give us today our daily bread."

In this simple request, Jesus reminds us that everything comes from God. God is the creator and sustainer of the universe. Every breath we take is a gift from God, not just the daily bread. Jesus reminds us to be thankful; to give thanks to God for… well, everything! If we think we provide for ourselves by our own hand alone, we are sadly mistaken. Daily bread comes in so very many forms. Trust in God, rely on His strength, not yours, be faithful, and don’t forget to give thanks to God.

3. Forgiveness.
"Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors."

All of us are imperfect; we sin. Whether you say “debt”, “trespass”, “sin”, or “wound”, the meaning is clear. We are to forgive the wounds that have been inflicted on us by others, before we can ask for (or expect) forgiveness for all the wounds we inflict. No longer is revenge, holding a grudge, getting even, or remembering an offense acceptable.

Jesus died to atone for the sins of ALL people. Is your wound greater than the sacrifice of Jesus? If you refuse to forgive, you place yourself first, and you place yourself outside of God’s grace. Forgiveness does not always come easy. Jesus knew this, so he reminds us to pray for God’s help to be merciful, and forgive.

4. Follow.
"And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one."

Jesus isn’t saying that we need to beseech God to not lead us into temptation. He is reminding us to follow God. For God doesn’t lead us into temptation, the evil one does. Do we listen to God’s will in our life, or do we put our own will first. Satan traps us into believing that we need to get even, that we can do all things by our own strength, and that where our desires will lead us is more important than where God wants to lead us. It’s simple: If you follow God, he will never lead you into temptation.

The Lord’s Prayer is not an incantation. You don’t need to pray it with any certain inflection. You don’t need to be holding beads, or lighting a candle, or holding your hands in a certain way when you pray.

The Lord’s Prayer is not a chant. Praying it over and over by reciting the words is not praying, it’s just chanting. God doesn’t want us to mindlessly chant words over and over. God desires an intimate relationship with us. In teaching us how we should pray, Jesus instructs us how to get intimate with God.

So, when I pray our Lord’s Prayer, I try to think about what Jesus teaches us about prayer. I focus my heart on God, and ask myself: “How can I draw closer to God’s will in my life?” I give thanks and glory to God for my life and the blessings that flow from His grace. I let go of all the hurts and trespasses; sometimes I have to pray for the strength to let go of some of the hurts. And finally, I ask God to open my heart to more ways I can follow His voice, rather than that of the world or the evil one.

In giving us this single prayer, Jesus gives us the means to move toward the more intimate relationship that God wishes to have with us. Try starting your conversations with God with the prayer that Jesus teaches us to pray every day this week. Think about the four Fs… focus, faith, forgiveness, and follow. See if you notice a change in your attitude. See if you notice a change in your closeness to God. See if you notice an increase of joy in your life.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Big Game

2010-01-27T22:18:00.000-08:00

With Super Bowl Sunday fast approaching, I am reminded of the ‘The Big Game’ story. I have heard it so many times that I have no idea when, or from whom, I first heard it preached. In case you might not have heard the story, or you’re just a bit forgetful (like me), you needn’t worry… I’ll retell it:

The football fan was so excited! His team had made it through the play-offs, and was going to play in the Super Bowl. The trouble was, his boss at the store where he worked had already set the schedule for the month, and he was going to have to cover at the store the day of the big game. He was initially very upset, and tried to get his boss to let him take the day as a vacation day. His boss explained that everybody wanted to watch the big game, and since he had the least seniority, he’d be working that day. Although sympathetic to his team fervor, his boss made it clear that his job depended on him showing up for work; no excuses.

Rather than curse his situation, he decided to record the game, and play it back later… after he’d gotten off work. To make it more fun, he invited everyone he knew who had to work during the big game to a belated Super Bowl party. They could celebrate together with food and drink, watch the recorded game, and still have a good time. In fact, they all agreed to not listen to any news reports about the game, so they wouldn’t know anything about the game, and the whole thing would be just like watching in real-time.

For the last few hours at work, he managed to cut people off if they started talking about the Super Bowl game they had just watched. He’d politely explain the situation, and everybody seemed to understand. Virtually everybody told him he was really going to enjoy the game.

Finally, the work day was over, he could close up, lock up, and go home and start his exciting Super Bowl party. But just as he was getting close to his car, he overheard a shouted exchange in the parking lot: He heard how, in a miraculous play, his team had come from behind to win in the last-seconds of the game!

All the rest of his friends attending his Super Bowl party had managed to remain ignorant of the game’s final outcome, and not wanting to spoil any of their fun, he didn’t reveal that he’d accidentally heard what the final result of the contest would be. It was supposed to be a close game, and the excitement of those watching was high. By halftime, that excitement had waned somewhat for those rooting for his team, as they were down by more than 20 points.

Knowing the final result, he encouraged his fellow fans with: “It’s not over, yet. Don’t give up hope!”

But the third quarter was even worse. Their team was getting hammered on the field; it looked like it was going to be a humiliating loss. Some of his friends, seeing many of the fans in the stadium leaving at the start of the fourth quarter, were of the opinion that they had the right idea. He kept his friends from leaving, and again exhorted them with: “It’s not over, yet. Have some faith!”

And then, impossibly, their team rallied. They made play after play; running, passing, and moving the ball for touchdown after touchdown. With only 2 minutes left on the clock, their team got possession of the ball on their own 10-yard line, and though they trailed by 2 points, a touchdown would win the game for them. But the other team’s defense hit back with everything they had, and managed to stop them in the middle of the field. At fourth down and 15 yards, it seemed like the end with only 3 seconds left to play.

As his team lined up for what seemed to be a futile field goal attempt, everybody groaned. By the time the ball was snapped and teed, the kicker would have to kick it more than 52 yards to make a field goal. Our guy was the only one who believed they could score, and he got everyone to their feet, shouting: “They can do it… they can make the kick… they can score… they can win this!” And, of course, they did.

Afterward, all his friends marveled at how he had never lost hope, how he had never lost faith, and how his encouragement had kept them all from giving up. He finally admitted to all of them that he had been told the final result, so it was easy for him to remain calm and never lose hope.

As Christians, we too, know the final result. It doesn’t matter how many times we get blitzed by Satan or the world. So what if we just got sacked and had the wind knocked out of us? That lineup coming up against us may be fierce and unrelenting, but in the end, they are destined to lose. All the fear and worry won’t change the final outcome.

Sin and death have been beaten, but Satan tries to convince us otherwise; that the contest is still being played out. We already know how Jesus, sacrificing himself, literally takes the hit for the entire team… giving us the final victory. So encourage one another. Lift each other up. Stay in the game right down to the final second… don’t you dare give up!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Anger and Forgiveness; Unkindness and Kindness

2010-01-19T23:41:00.000-08:00

Some of the most thoughtful and Spirit led comments to this blog are posted by Monica. Monica is not a partner in ministry here at Messiah Lutheran Church, but she is a faithful sister in Christ, and has been a good friend of mine for many years. Though there are only a few people bold enough (or technically savvy enough, perhaps; LOL) to place themselves on the ‘followers’ list of this blog, I know that there are many people that read the blog; some more often than others. Of all of the readers, Monica is perhaps the most faithful at reading the blog posts every week… certainly, she is the most prolific at offering comments. She is actually fulfilling the mission of this blog: to be alive in God’s Spirit through the sharing of thoughts, feelings, and experiences, and… to extend our Christian fellowship at Messiah into the internet, to be accessible to all.

Last week’s post generated a wonderful response from Monica. After thinking about it a bit more, Monica sent me an email that expanded brilliantly on that same subject. With her kind permission, I now share it with you:

Anger and Forgiveness; Unkindness and Kindness

By Monica Martin

These past several months I have been working hard on forgiveness. It has been difficult for me to accept forgiveness myself and not keep 'beating myself up' over things that happened in the past. However, greater understanding that the Lord really loves me has helped in that regard.

So now, regarding other people...

I was glad to be 2,100 miles away from my nemesis relative, who verbally and sometimes physically delighted in fighting and debasing me. Locally, this past year has been very difficult with a few certain people undermining my term as President of an organization, and trying to remove people and other things which were specifically not their responsibility; going behind my back. Also, board meetings often turned into very unpleasant times. I believe in the cause of the national organization but the local problems were draining me completely emotionally.

So besides praying, I went to my pastor. He told me two things:

1. We are commanded to forgive;
2. It's not for them but for us.

Of course there is a benefit for them, but sometimes they don't even realize it because they are so busy attacking (sort of reminiscent of sixth grade, or junior high school girls).

Another pastor once told me that forgiveness is making no consequences for the person's having done something to me. No retribution. I had accomplished that much; I can be polite, I can greet people when I cannot avoid them and then do as little as possible with them. I thought I had it covered...

But no! As I was double-checking my own paperwork with the organization, I found yet another betrayal. I was angrier than I had been in DECADES. I cannot live like this!

I tend to sing often to turn my thoughts to the Lord. Being so very angry, and not able to control it, I turned to singing. One of the songs our vocal ensemble has been working on is one of my very favorite hymns, “Be Thou My Vision.” So that is what I found myself singing. I was stunned when I realized that if all else was to be nothing except that God Is, then all of the machinations, pettiness, and meanness was nothing to me.

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;
Naught be all else to me, save that Thou art.
Thou my best Thought, by day or by night,
Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.

Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;
I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;
Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;
Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.

Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my Treasure Thou art.

High King of Heaven, my victory won,
May I reach Heaven’s joys, O bright Heaven’s Sun!
Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,
Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

The problem here so far is that I was trying to 'behave' and act right on my own. We 'ought' to forgive, 70 times 7 (which is to say, without end). But having a rule/law doesn't always help. That wasn't enough. I wasn't really thinking that this was all nothing, but rather looking to my own hurt self. But turning to the Lord, realizing that He was my joy, He forgave me, and it freed me so very much to forgive them. That was really a great day of rejoicing.

But not so fast... turns out that being among them still chafes.

At one of the meetings someone asked me why I looked so unhappy (I wasn't happy). Then she asked me why not? She's also a Christian and aware that God is our joy and not the things we do or the people we are among. So I still had some work to do.

Then recently the other pastor spoke about what he will be doing in the New Year. I missed a lot of what he said because one point stuck in my brain and heart as something that I must do:

Be kind to the unkind.

That, by the grace of God, will effect forgiveness for them, and in me. I cannot do this myself, so I sing and pray, and pray and sing:

With God dwelling in me, with Jesus standing beside me,
“Thou my great Father, I thy true son;”
If my heart is really set on you God, and I walk in the love of Jesus,
Then your Spirit will give me the grace to forgive.

Post script: Monica is a professional photographer; one of the top photographers in Alabama. I asked her to pick a picture that best reflected the blog entry topic. I wanted her to choose something related to the topic, but with meaning to HER heart. Since I offered to credit her work, I thought she’d send me one of her photographs. Instead, Monica sent me a picture taken by her good friend Jim Solomon who took the photo at the 40th anniversary party that commemorated Monica and Diehl’s First Date March 11, 2007. She lovingly remembers the kindness and loving heart of her husband:

Diehl was always kind to me when I was angry; the rule from before we married was that I couldn't throw anything except paper napkins and pillows. So if I was frustrated and threw down a paper napkin, he would pick it up, present it to me with both hands, and say, "Pretty Lady is this yours?" with a loving smile; which, of course, made me smile or laugh.

Your brother in Christ, Dave

Do Not Judge

2010-01-09T04:55:00.001-08:00

Jesus teaches us not to judge one another in Matthew 7:1 when he says:

“Do not judge, or you too will be judged.”

My friend in Texas, Pastor Pat, sent me the following story. It’s one of those things that floats around the internet, but I liked the way it illustrates how many of us are so quick to judge… and how often it causes us to utter something hurtful.

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Never Judge Someone...

“Some people!” snorted a man standing behind me in the long line at the grocery store.

“You would think the manager would pay attention and open another line,” said a woman.

I looked to the front of the line to see what the hold up was and saw a well dressed, young woman, trying to get the machine to accept her credit card. No matter how many times she swiped it, the machine kept rejecting it.

“It's one of them welfare card things. Damn people need to get a job like everyone else,” said the man standing behind me.

The young woman turned around to see who had made the comment.

“It was me,” he said, pointing to himself.

The young lady's face began to change expression. Almost in tears, she dropped the welfare card onto the counter and quickly walked out of the store. Everyone in the checkout line watched as she began running to her car. Never looking back, she got in and drove way.

After developing cancer in 1977 and having had to use food stamps; I had learned never to judge anyone without knowing the circumstances of their life. This turned out to be the case today.

Several minutes later a young man walked into the store. He went up to the cashier and asked if she had seen the woman. After describing her, the cashier told him that she had run out of the store, got into her car, and drove away.

“Why would she do that?” asked the man. Everyone in the line looked around at the fellow who had made the statement. “I made a stupid comment about the welfare card she was using. Something I shouldn't have said. I'm sorry,” said the man.

“Well, that's bad, real bad, in fact. Her brother was killed in Afghanistan two years ago. He had three young children and she has taken on that responsibility. She's twenty years old, single, and now has three children to support,” he said in a very firm voice.

“I'm really truly sorry. I didn't know,” he replied, shaking both his hands about.

The young man asked, “Are these paid for?” pointing to the shopping cart full of groceries. “It wouldn't take her card,” the clerk told him.

“Do you know where she lives?” asked the man who had made the comment.

“Yes, she goes to our church.”

“Excuse me,” he said as he made his way to the front of the line. He pulled out his wallet, took out his credit card and told the cashier, “Please use my card. PLEASE!” The clerk took his credit card and began to ring up the young woman's groceries.

“Hold on,” said the gentleman. He walked back to his shopping cart and began loading his own groceries onto the belt to be included. “Come on people. We got three kids to help raise!” he told everyone in line.

Everyone began to place their groceries onto the fast moving belt. A few customers began bagging the food and placing it into separate carts. “Go back and get two big turkeys,” yelled a heavyset woman, as she looked at the man.

“NO,” yelled the man. Everyone stopped dead in their tracks. The entire store became quiet for several seconds. “Four turkeys,” yelled the man. Everyone began laughing and went back to work.

When all was said and done, the man paid a total of $1,646.57 for the groceries. He then walked over to the side, pulled out his check book, and began writing a check using the bags of dog food piled near the front of the store for a writing surface. He turned around and handed the check to the young man. “She will need a freezer and a few other things as well,” he told the man.

The young man looked at the check and said, “This is really very generous of you.”

“No,” said the man. “Her brother was the generous one.”

Everyone in the store had been observing the odd commotion and began to clap. And I drove home that day feeling very American.

We live in the Land of the free, because of the Brave!!

Remember our Troops of Yesterday and Today!!!

A great example of why we should be kind and patient. Kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can hear.
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Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Christmas More Than Chaos

2009-12-31T03:39:00.000-08:00

So many of the people I know are breathing a sigh of relief now that Christmas is over. Decorate the house, trim the tree, send the cards, shop, wrap, bake, party, assemble toys, and be pressured to be jolly all the while; it just seems overwhelming at times! My good friend Monica used a phrase that struck a chord in my heart when she was describing how we should celebrate the birth of our Savior: “Christmas more than chaos.”

Is it just me, or does it seem the season of Christmas really has become increasingly more chaotic? I remember when people complained that Christmas decorations went up at the stores the day after Thanksgiving. This year, the decorations went up the day after Halloween. How scary is that?!?

Did you see the Christian groups that mounted protests and boycotts over merchants that did not mention Christmas in their advertising? I wonder… how, exactly, do ads for tight jeans help us celebrate the birth of the Christ Child? Why protest that some store’s ads say “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas?” Apparently, some Christians feel that we should bully everybody to acknowledge Christmas. Does that seem like Christmas, or chaos to you?

Amazingly, churches add their own chaos to Christmas, as well. We have extra services on Christmas (eve or day… take your pick, depending on your religious tradition). All those extra services need pastors, musicians, choirs, greeters, ushers, and all the normal support of a Sunday service… but crammed together and overlapping, so everybody can have a convenient choice of a service. You don’t know chaos until you’ve tried to sort out a church parking lot at night… when one service is running very late, and people are arriving for the next service. There’s not a lot of peace on earth, or good will toward men in the chaos of such a situation.

Oh, I saw plenty of chaos this season, but I saw Christmas, too:

On Christmas Eve, I worked out in the street and parking lots for 4 of our 6 Christmas Eve services. It was a bitter cold night for Southern California, with temperatures dipping down into the high thirties (LOL), and between stints directing traffic, I took refuge in the Joy Center to warm up a bit. Actually, I wasn’t all that cold. I had dressed in layers, and was wearing a festive Santa hat that kept my head quite toasty. Truth be told, I was in the Joy Center because it was filled with cookies, fudge, hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, and the most marvelous berry water you can imagine. Between services, it was full of families; sampling the cookies, having a warm drink of cider or cocoa, or just visiting for a few minutes before heading back out into the night. But… it was also empty during the Christmas Eve services, so those of us who were serving in one capacity or another could sit down, rest, and (perhaps) enjoy a cookie or two.

The 9:30 pm service had been going on for about 15 minutes, and I just come in from the parking lot and was anxious to sit down and rest my ankles and knees for a bit before the final transition of the night. I was looking over the cookies to see if any more of the scrumptious fudge had miraculously reappeared, when I heard crying. It was coming from outside, between the Joy Center and the Worship Center. Since I hadn’t plopped myself down yet, I stepped outside to investigate. What I saw, was a little girl and her mother. The girl was crying, and her mother had brought her out of the service so her crying would not disturb the people, or the service.

As I walked up to them I boomed out, in my most jolly voice: “Ho, ho, ho… who’s crying on Christmas Eve?” Now, except for the general physique, I don’t look much like Santa Claus (ho, ho, ho), so perhaps it was the hat, or maybe just the big figure looming out of the darkness; whatever it was, she stopped crying instantly. I bent down, and asked the little girl if she’d like to come into the Joy Center and have a cookie. She nodded, and I led mother and daughter inside where it was warm and inviting. We examined all the cookies, and I shared my thoughts about which cookies were the yummiest. Being 3 years old, the little girl wanted to try all of the cookies, but mom negotiated a more reasonable number. They ended up spending the whole of their time being warm and comfortable, sharing cookies with each other, trying a few of the available drinks, and laughing and giggling together.

As I prepared to return to the parking lot, the mother came over to me to thank me for giving them such a wonderful Christmas Eve. I felt like a shepherd. The gift wasn’t from me, I hadn’t prepared any of the goodies in the Joy Center, and everybody was invited to come, anyway. I felt like a shepherd, because all I had done was go out and tell someone: “Come, see this wonderful thing.” For a few minutes, there was less chaos, and more Christmas.

Isn’t that what Christmas is all about? God has already prepared the gift. All are invited to enter in. The angels told the shepherds to spread the good news. Jesus has commanded us to share the good news with everybody. It doesn’t take any special training, since shepherds were obviously up to the task. How hard is it to say to someone: “Come, see this wonderful thing.”? I invite you to keep Christmas in your heart, and all year long to be a shepherd and choose… Christmas more than chaos!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Spirit of a Christmas Newsletter

2009-12-22T00:01:00.000-08:00

I don’t know about you, but I get a lot of newsletters stuffed in with all the Christmas cards I receive. Here is a newsletter I might have written. Hey… just cut and paste it, edit in your own names, and you’ll be all ready with a newsletter for next Christmas. Nobody will know you used a ghostwriter. LOL! Enjoy.

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Here it is, 3 days before Christmas, and I still haven’t mailed a single Christmas card. Patti, of course, has mailed dozens… to family, associates, and neighbors… but I’m in charge of getting Christmas cards sent out to all the special people in MY life. Because you ARE special, and because you have touched my life in a unique or profound way, you continue to get a card from me at Christmas. OK, OK… it usually arrives AFTER Christmas, but I do (usually) send them out. Besides, who couldn’t benefit from extending a time of peace and goodwill a little longer? Did you know that Christmas actually begins the 12 Days of Christmas? So, since the celebration of our Savior and King extend out to Epiphany, when the Wise Men brought their gifts, it seems appropriate that my meager gift of a card arrive near that time, too.

So many folks like to take this time to help keep us all up-to-date on what’s going on in their lives. That’s usually nice, since most of them are actually counting their blessings, rather than giving us a litany of their woes. I always feel some perverse responsibility to read all the Christmas newsletters I receive… in their entirety. With newsletters, I think that people take this concept of ‘giving’ entirely too far; they give us WAY too much information! Seriously, most newsletter recipients don’t care about Uncle Floyd’s hip replacement… let alone even know Uncle Floyd. And though the family pet is surely beloved, who really needs to hear about the gerbil’s irregularity? We all know the dark side of holiday newsletters, yet so many of us send them. The obvious question is: WHY?

I think that most of us that participate in the Christmas card tradition do so because we enjoy the concept of staying connected to people we care about. There are people on my list that get cards from me because I formed a close bond with them more than 20 years ago. We never see each other anymore, but we still exchange Christmas cards. I love to hear that they are enjoying grandkids, travel, or involvement in something that keeps them fired up. Some people I see every day, but they get a card, as well. For me, at least, the very action of sending Christmas cards allows me to take a moment (at least once a year), and inventory all the wonderful friends I have been blessed with over the years.

So… this year, while sticking your address label on the envelope, and while signing your card, know that I have lifted YOU up in prayer. My prayer for you is a reflection of the Christmas season: that you KNOW the joy and the peace of Christ! This is the joy and the peace that I know in MY life. Don’t just count the blessings in your life, enjoy them, and… share them.

Merry Christmas, and blessings in the New Year!!!

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Partner in Ministry – Part 2

2009-12-16T01:25:00.000-08:00

In my last blog entry (Partner in Ministry – Part 1) I posed the following question:

How would you answer the question: “Is your church the best place for me to give my money?”

To adequately answer that question here at Messiah, we need to really examine the mission, vision, and values of Messiah Lutheran Church here in Yorba Linda, California.

Our God-given mission:
Messiah’s God-given mission is “to know Christ and to make Christ known” (Matthew 28:19-20). As a Lutheran congregation, we center on worship and praise of God and our Lord, Jesus Christ; care for those within and outside our congregation; growing in our discipleship – learning and equipping ourselves with God’s word; and reaching out in witness and mission to our community and the world.

Our Spirit-led vision:
Messiah's God-given vision is to "joyfully grow to know, love and serve" by equipping every partner in ministry to understand their lives as journeys of vocation, to connect them to God and one another in worship and prayer, and send them into the community and the world as agents of renewal. How we live our lives is just as important as carrying out our mission.

Our Values:
Messiah's God-given core value is that we are a community of believers who know that salvation is ours as a gift of God’s grace. We are motivated to relate to one another and the world by our biblical understanding of prayer, dignity, integrity, compassion, hospitality, and joy.

As a congregation we invite each other, as Partners in Ministry, to build on Four Pillars of Faith:

Everyone Invites and Welcomes
Everyone Serves Inside and Outside Messiah
Everyone Gives of Time, Talent, and Treasure
Everyone Grows and Studies

Well, our mission seems to include reaching out; to our community and to our world. Our vision, in a similar fashion, would have us connect with our community and our world as agents of renewal. And our values include relating to one another in compassion and hospitality.

In a sense, after understanding our mission, vision, and values, I suppose that if you are only looking to give money to a worthy cause, you might find that Messiah Lutheran Church might not be a good fit for you. Oh, we have plenty of worthy causes and ministries, alright. To be honest, we probably won’t turn down many gifts, but we are really all about helping people realize their God-given potential as partners in ministry with us.

At Messiah, we have over 75 ministries! Many of them (but not all) are on the Messiah site at:

http://messiahyl.com/

Just check out the ministries tab or the calendar, but prepare to be overwhelmed by the number of ministries that will present themselves to you.

For those who don’t read blogs, surf the web, or explore our Messiah site, we have booklets in every pew of our sanctuary. PLEASE… stop by on Sunday, or drop by the church office in the Life Center and pick up a copy. If you are not already a committed partner in ministry, I’m certain that there are probably several ministries we are involved in that will touch your heart, motivate you to become a partner, and maybe (if the Spirit moves you) open your pocketbook.

Two ministries that are not in the booklet are Cypress Street and Food Pantry.

Cypress Street is a depressed area of very high-density low-income apartments. Every week, high school students from Messiah lead Bible study there. This year, 150 Messiah partners fed over 1100 people at a Thanksgiving dinner at Cypress Street.

Food Pantry is a ministry of about 20 Messiah partners that help to feed over 200 families every week.

Mark Phillipi, our congregational president, startled me when he stated that our goal in this year’s pledge drive was to get 75% of our members to pledge to become active partners in ministry with us. I asked him, “Why not shoot for 100%? Don’t we want everybody to pledge?”

Mark smiled patiently at me, and really opened my eyes with his answer: “We’re not trying to browbeat, or ‘guilt’ anyone to pledge. Not everyone is in a position to be an active partner in ministry. Many people come because they are hurting and need to our understanding, our compassion, our help, and our love. If we get 75% of our members to pledge to be partners in ministry with us, we’ll be doing great. I trust the Holy Spirit to provide more through the giving commitments of active partners, than through 100% participation in a normal giving drive.”

Our stewardship people really hit the nail on the head when they answered the question of: “Is your church the best place for me to give my money?”

What can I do with the life God has given me?

“How much is enough?” That question was once posed to Nelson Rockefeller. His response, with a smile, was “Just a little bit more.” The response seems a bit humorous, but for the most of us it rings true. It is easy to let our desire for “a little bit more” to become our motivation for life.

It can and often does eat away at compassionate hearts, and the concerns of others slip out of our mind and become at best afterthoughts. In Jesus’ own words, we hear that we are “to seek first the kingdom of God and righteousness.” This is not a mere challenge to simplify or downsize our life. God is calling us into a new and deeper
understanding of our life’s purpose. In Christ, we discover an entirely new way to see life.

At Messiah, the question we wrestle with is, “What can I do with this life that God has given to me?” We are challenged, encouraged and strengthened as we realize all that we have and all that we are is a gift from God. Our minds, our skills, our time, our money, our beauty, our relationships, our creativity; all of these are gifts.

Stewardship ministry at Messiah is simply discovering the ways we can put all these gifts into service. It is to help each other choose life… not just a lifestyle.

2 Corinthians 8:7 “But just as you excel in everything—in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us—see that you also excel in this grace of giving.”

So… the bottom line is: any gift or pledge to Messiah is funding a tremendous number of ministries that provide individuals and families of all ages a variety of opportunities to praise God, to learn and mature as Christian disciples, and to go out into the community and the world as witnesses to God’s everlasting love and grace.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Partner in Ministry – Part 1

2009-12-11T03:01:00.000-08:00

We are in the midst of a Partner in Ministry campaign. We are looking to do more this year than just exhort (sounds like extort, doesn’t it?) people to make a giving pledge. We have an awesome campus, all kind of worship and fellowship opportunities, and incredible pastors and staff. Rather than press people for the money it takes to operate our ministries, we are looking to involve people as partners. Of course, being a partner means supporting the ministry with time, talent, and a financial (money) commitment.

As our Partner in Ministry campaign was moving forward, I got an email from a buddy of mine, Pat Glazener-Cooney. Pat and I were best friends in high school, he was best man at my wedding, and if you had known us 40 years ago, you would be amazed that either of us would ever be involved in ministry. Pat is now a Methodist pastor in Texas, and yours truly authors this blog (and I’m also a Partner in Ministry at Messiah Lutheran Church). The Lord certainly moves in mysterious ways!

Returning to my point… Pat had copied me on an article by a stewardship consultant; he was actually sending it to his church’s leaders. He posed the following question: “So how would we answer?”

Is Your Church the Best Place to Give?

J. Clif Christopher
November 18, 2009

The other day I was visiting with a key donor of a church along with the pastor. The pastor was asking the donor if she would be willing to serve in a very significant capacity in an upcoming campaign for their church. I fully expected the woman to say yes. She was an elected leader in the church and was the number three donor, giving a high five-figure contribution to the operating budget each year. She was, it seemed to me on paper, an ideal candidate for the position.

He began the conversation by bragging on her to me, and then he asked her if she would be willing to consider service in this capacity. I then followed up by explaining to her what the position entailed, and after about ten minutes I stopped, waiting to hear her enthusiastic “of course.” Instead, I got an answer I totally did not expect.

She looked at her pastor and said, “I am concerned about our church. For the last several years we have not grown, and I see fewer and fewer young people. I think you are a fine man, but I am beginning to wonder if supporting the church is good stewardship. Lately, I have been looking into giving more support to World Vision and Oxfam. Pastor, do you really believe that our church is a better place for my money than they are? I must see that my money is going to be used wisely, as God calls me to do. Is our church the best place for me to give? That is what I need answered because, if it isn’t, then I could not serve with integrity in this campaign.”
The pastor was stunned. I could see on his face that he was shocked by the request to justify to the woman why she should choose the church for her offerings. He stumbled around a bit and then turned to me to help him out. There really was nothing a person in my position could say, however. It was not my church, and I was not a leader in it. I was just a consultant. She already knew that I would play little or no role in whether this church eventually moved forward or not. I vainly tried to put a good face on what we were going to try and do, but, in the end, she turned us down. What she ultimately decides to do with her gifts will all be determined by how well the church can compete for them as a place that changes lives over other very good causes.

I have long advocated the need for churches to learn how to compete with other nonprofits. Persons need to hear our life-changing stories and be helped to understand how their dollars are creating positive change in the lives of people—and in ways that are powerful and distinctive. Why the church instead of World Vision, Oxfam, Scouts, or the local hospital? We must be prepared on a daily basis boldly to answer that question. If we find we cannot easily do it, then we must get busy changing our church. As the Builder Generation dies off and is replaced by the much more questioning Boomers and Gen Xers, we are going to find ourselves facing those very questions. Are we ready to answer them gladly and compellingly?

I told the pastor afterwards that this lady did him a great favor. She voiced the question with which I had felt many in his congregation were wrestling. His answer to her question will eventually determine whether the campaign succeeds or not.

How would you answer the question: “Is your church the best place for me to give my money?”

J. Clif Christopher (cchristopher@horizonsstewardship.com) is founder of Horizons Stewardship Company and author of Not Your Parents’ Offering Plate: A New Vision for Financial Stewardship, Abingdon, 2008.

Hmmm… how would we answer that at Messiah? I knew how I would answer that question, but I wondered… how would our leadership answer? Would they all answer the same? Could they answer at all?

I will post the astonishing answers in my next blog entry: Partner in Ministry – Part 2

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

My Annual Christmas Card

2009-12-02T11:45:00.000-08:00

“May You Connect This Christmas…
With Lots of Free Minutes and NO Static!”

Every year I create and produce a new Christmas card. I make 500 copies, fold them, and then personally give them out to everybody at church during the Christmas season. I hand them out to store clerks, my postal carrier, my neighbors, and people I might be working with at the moment. I’ve been doing it for so long, that it doesn’t seem quite so weird to everybody anymore. As a matter of fact, I’m often surprised when people ask me: “When am I getting this year’s Christmas card from you?”

In addition to the paper Christmas cards, I can now post the whole thing here in the blog. True, there isn’t the same tactile feel you get from holding an actual card in your hand, but everything else is here. I hope you enjoy this year’s offering.

The famous Christmas song Winter Wonderland was first published in 1934. The composer was Felix Bernard (1897-1944) and the lyricist was Richard B. Smith (1901-1935). Probably the most popular versions of this classic Christmas song were recorded by the Andrews Sisters and Perry Como. Since you already know the tune, why not sing along, as you consider our current Virtual Wonderland:

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Virtual Wonderland

By David Alan Hoag, November 22nd, 2009
(Sung to the tune of Winter Wonderland, with apologies to Felix Bernard and Richard Smith)

Text chimes “ding”, are you heeding?
Posted Blogs, are you reading?
In IM or chat,
It holds you like that;
Captive in a virtual wonderland.

Nevermore is there quiet,
It’s a huge data riot.
See… Facebook has powers
To hold you for hours;
Captive in a virtual wonderland.

Everybody needs to have a Smart Phone
To ensure their link-up is complete.
If you haven’t got the best connection
You just might miss a caller, or a tweet.

Where you work, there’s a female
Whom you text and you email.
Though just down the hall,
You’ve not met at all;
Captive in a virtual wonderland.

In your bio you can claim you’re gorgeous,
Whether you’re a gal or you’re a guy.
In your bio you can stretch the facts some,
But any way you view it, it’s a lie.

I invite you this Christmas
Feel the joy and the sweet bliss
Make Christmas with me
Unplug and be free...
Not captive in a virtual wonderland.

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Blessings to you and your family, as you celebrate God’s love at Christmas time. My prayer is that the love, peace, and joy that come from the salvation through Jesus Christ… be yours at Christmas, and all through the year.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Giving Thanks

2009-11-25T15:01:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving Day is tomorrow. Here in the United States, we have set aside a day to purposefully be thankful. We give thanks for our freedom, our families, our communities, our bounty, and for the so many other blessings that God continues to bestow on us.

Last Sunday, I was talking to Jim Harter about a study group he and I were a part of… I had been trying to get the group to continue on together, even after we had completed the small group sessions. It just didn’t seem to be happening, and Jim was finally admitting to me that it wasn’t going to work out for him, either. I must admit, I had been pushing a bit to continue meeting with Jim; he’s an awesome study partner, has a strong faith, deep insights, and a quiet strength that allowed us to have lively study sessions, but also kept us on track and focused.

If you attend Messiah Lutheran Church here in Yorba Linda, you have probably seen Jim Harter. You see, Jim is our church’s Executive Director. Jim is the guy that manages the day-to-day operations of our campus. Every time I think I have a handle on all of what Jim does, I see him involved in something new. The same qualities of strong faith, deep insights, and quiet strength that he brings to a Bible study session, serve him well… as he serves our fellowship well.

Jim always has a smile, a friendly greeting, and a kind word for everyone. As he moves across our campus he usually has a purpose, but he always has time for conversation and laughter. He seems to effortlessly juggle a dozen different things, while dealing with the pastors, council, committees, ministries, and individuals. If there is an unlocked door, if there’s a water leak, if the copier stops working, or even if somebody pours soap in the fountain… Jim is the guy who is called; who responds. While thinking about how much time Jim spends on our campus, AND how much he serves this congregation, I realized that I don’t thank him near enough… let alone edify him as the Bible instructs us to lift up and edify each other.

Then I had another thought; a flash of insight, if you will. For every minute that Jim spends on our campus, he spends it AWAY from his family!

Later that same Sunday morning, I caught up with Jim’s wife Linda in the parking lot (where else; LOL). I told here how much I appreciated all that Jim did for the church, and what an awesome job he was doing. Then I told her that I realized that to perform at that level, Jim’s efforts for the church surely must impact their family life. I thanked her for being so supportive of the church by being so supportive of Jim. I let her know that I understood that family meals, family time, and family events had all taken a backseat sometimes, as Jim responded to one emergency or another. I told her I wanted to thank her and let her know that her efforts, her sacrifice, and her family’s patience helped make Jim so effective and made this place a wonderful fellowship. I told her I wanted her to know how much I appreciated HER.

Jim and Linda Harter are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to great servants here at Messiah. From pastors to child care… if I started, I’d be writing another 5,000 words. It’s Thanksgiving, so you can be thankful that I am not expanding on the subject. What I will do is challenge you:

Consider all the people who serve you at church, whether they are at Messiah or at some other church where you might worship. Give thanks for them this week. Let them know how important they are in the life of the church. Find their spouse or their family, and thank them, as well. Let them know that they are appreciated, too.

I pray you all enjoy family, friends, and fellowship as you give thanks to God for all the things AND all the people in your life.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Laughing Out Loud

2009-11-15T01:09:00.000-08:00

Outside observers might say that events often seem to conspire to shape my blog posts. My fellow brothers and sisters in Christ might say that I seem led by the Holy Spirit. I’m more of the opinion that I’m just open and available to be nudged… from time to time… by God’s Spirit. Certainly, I’m alive, but I’m energized, creative, and more full of joy during those times when I’m “alive” in God’s Spirit.

This week, my friend Kathi Avarbuch sent me a link to a funny video. It was political, as a lot of her stuff often is, but it was clean and funny. So I decided to see if the comedian who made it had any other material; did he ever! The video Kathi sent me was called The Government Can, but I soon found dozens of other clips from this very funny guy: Tim Hawkins. I was intrigued. It was obvious from the clips that this guy performed in front of large crowds. He was as well received in a corporate function as he was in a church venue. Who was he? Why hadn’t I heard of him?

Well, I’m pretty good at researching stuff, so I did find out all kinds of stuff about this funny Tim Hawkins guy. There is plenty to see on his site, but YouTube is also awash in his videos; reposted over and over by a growing fan base. His Bio describes him as follows:

Tim Hawkins has been accused of being equally gifted and twisted. Whatever your take, he has indeed become one of the most in-demand comics in the country. His arsenal is unique: high energy stand-up, physical comedy, slick guitar skills, a thousand faces and voices, improvisational chops. It all combines to create an insane comedy experience. And yes, the guy can really sing. “People think I live a rock-star life”, said Hawkins. “Believe me, Mick Jagger never gets lost in a Hertz parking lot looking for his Ford Focus.”

With 4 kids of his own and a wife who is winning her battle with breast cancer, Hawkins gets new material daily from the perils of marriage and parenting. But it must be difficult to work clean all the time, right? “Clean comedy is easy. Funny comedy is hard.” So does Tim think he’s funny? “I'm not bragging, but one time I told a joke in front of a dead bird, and it flew away. And you can Google that.”

From the testimonials I’ve read, Tim is an awesome (and surprising) witness! Yes, surprising. Most people who are not Christian… and a good many people who consider themselves to BE Christian… find it hard to believe that Christians can be fun; let alone FUNNY! I’m sharing a clip of Tim Hawkins that is actually more of a public service spot. I think it’s hilarious! You men out there… take note!

At a time when so many of our churches are struggling with dwindling attendance numbers, Tim Hawkins is playing to sold out churches (and other venues). His on-stage witness is funny, and kind of drive-by, but it gets people thinking, and asking:

“Dude… seriously… you’re a Christian?”

Let’s see… which do you think will attract more people:

a) A bunch of rules and a load of guilt, or
b) A bunch of funny stories people can relate to and a load of laughter?

For all of you who answered “a)”, please check your wallet, because you are probably a card-carrying Pharisee. Jesus shocked and upset the religious norms of his day. Jesus calls us to bring the “Good News” to the world… not the “gloomy news”… not the “You-can’t-live-up-to-this news”… and definitely NOT the “boring news.” Laughter may not be joy, but laughter can bring people closer to experiencing joy than depression or boredom.

When people also ask me:

“Dude… seriously… you’re a Christian?”

And then they want to know more about this Jesus I’m so passionate about, then I know the Holy Spirit is alive in my life and my soul.

I may not be as funny as Tim Hawkins, but I am still…
Your brother in Christ,

Dave

BTW, you can find a bunch of videos (and plenty of other stuff) by Tim Hawkins on his site at:

http://timhawkins.net/

I Have No Friends

2009-11-07T20:50:00.000-08:00

My niece posted something on Facebook this week which caught my attention. She wrote that she:

“…feels like she really doesn’t have any true friends. :`(”

Twelve hours later, she replied to her own post with:

“...and absolutely nobody says anything in response. Wow I love that.”

After several days, there was still no other response to her initial post. Now, I don’t feel like this is a betrayal of any trust, as posting something on Facebook is tantamount to posting it in the middle of the town square, shouting it from the rooftops, or broadcasting it on the BBC Radio Network.

Admittedly, Facebook is one of the hottest social networking sites on the web today. As for how hot it’ll be in six months, check with Myspace. Anybody still remember Myspace? LOL! Anyway, my point is that although the web is a great tool for the distribution of information, and though it allows almost instantaneous communication to occur, it cannot guarantee that information will be distributed fairly or correctly, or that communication will occur. Indeed, as people are discovering, the more Facebook friends you have, the harder it is to glean useful information from the flood of idle or useless chatter that pours in from all of your friends.

Facebook, in creating a clever bit of alliteration (Facebook Friends), has confused the issue of what a friend is for millions of people. Facebook friends… ha! Let’s take a quick tally of your friends… as defined on Facebook: relatives, acquaintances, classmates, co-workers, and yes… perhaps a good friend or two.

Let’s start with relatives. Few people count their relatives as friends. Relatives can push too many of our buttons. Relatives lay guilt trips on us. Relatives are the biological families we grew up in, and study after study reveals that most biological families are messed up. For most of us, we remain tied only by family obligations. We often feel forsaken or betrayed at times by family. Do you count family as real friends? Let’s be honest.

Then there are the acquaintances, classmates, and co-workers… as soon as the external pressure that holds you together is removed, the close friendship-like connection is removed, as well. Just think about all the close friends you had in school, in a club, or on a job. How many of those friendships survived very long after graduation, a move, or a change in job status? What kind of friend are you to your former best friend from high school who is now an alcoholic? What kind of friend are you to your former best friend at work who got laid off instead of you, and who is still out of work after more than a year? Let’s be honest.

Wait… what about all the members of my church fellowship that are also Facebook friends? We call each other brothers and sisters; we refer to each other as our church family. Although I must admit feeling closer to many in my church family, I also recognize that many are closer to being acquaintances than friends.

Real friends love you, support you, lift you up, encourage you, and sometimes… even challenge you. They love you even though they know all your imperfections. They see past your flaws, and see something more than what the world (or even our relatives) can see. Of course, real friendship is a 2-way street; otherwise it is just a type of hero worship. Real friends are ready to be there for each other. Real friends don’t count the cost. Real friends show the kind of love that Paul speaks about in his first letter to the church at Corinth:

“Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.”

1 Corinthians 13:4-7

The world is full of people who are trying so hard to find a friend that they don’t realize that they aren’t doing so well at being a friend. You cannot force someone to be your friend by making them feel guilty… or by begging them to be your friend… or by nagging or bullying them into being your friend. Want to find a real friend? It won’t be through Facebook. Try volunteering your time and energy to your community. Enroll in a class or join a club in which you have a genuine interest. Go to church and ask how you can get more involved; join a Bible study, teach Sunday school, or see if they have a need that you can fill.

I fear that there are not very many of us that really know how to be a real friend; mostly, as with the Facebook entry, friendship ends up being centered all about us. And if a friend lets us down, as they might often do, then we are angered and we begin to keep a record of wrongs. If we think about it, if we are honest with ourselves, most of us are pretty self-serving friends. In the gospel of John, Jesus teaches us what it means to be a real friend:

“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.”
John 15:13

That doesn’t necessarily mean that we need to die for our friends. But that would almost be easier than daily laying aside our life-wishes in order to be a better friend. It’s easy to expect friends to be there for us. Being a real friend means not just being there for someone, but putting their needs first. Just a few verses later, Jesus boils the whole thing down to a 3 word command:

“This is my command: Love each other.”
John 15:17

While writing this post, the following song popped unbidden into my heart. I’m better with tunes than I am with lyrics, so I had to look it up on the web. As you read the lyrics, think about the scripture verses. Yes, indeed…

What a friend we have in Jesus

What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear!
What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!
O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,
All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.

Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?
We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.
Can we find a friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?
Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.

Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?
Precious Savior, still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.
Do your friends despise, forsake you? Take it to the Lord in prayer!
In His arms He’ll take and shield you; you will find a solace there.

Blessed Savior, Thou hast promised Thou wilt all our burdens bear
May we ever, Lord, be bringing all to Thee in earnest prayer.
Soon in glory bright unclouded there will be no need for prayer
Rapture, praise and endless worship will be our sweet portion there.

Original lyrics by: Joseph M. Scriven, 1820-1886.
Original music by: Charles C. Converse, 1832-1918.

Just click below to see a short YouTube clip of the gospel singer Odetta and the great Tennessee Ernie Ford singing this timeless gospel hymn.

Perhaps we all need to be reminded of what a friend we have in Jesus. Perhaps we need to pray fervently that we might open our hearts, let Jesus commune with us, and that we let the Holy Spirit guide us to be better friends… more Christ-like friends… to ALL we meet. Maybe then, we won’t worry so much about how many friends we might (or might not) have.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

THE ANT PHILOSOPHY

2009-11-01T03:07:00.000-08:00

This week, I’m posting a secular piece that I like. Jeff Paymar is a good friend of mine and a brother in Christ. He is also a financial advisor based in Pennsylvania. Over the years, Jeff has given me great financial advice, and has helped grow my (admittedly small) investments… even in these uncertain economic times. He has a servant’s heart and is amazingly good with details. LOL… I guess you need to be, if you work with other people’s money; unless you’re the government. Anyway, Jeff sends out a monthly email newsletter, and the following piece was in the most recent one.

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THE ANT PHILOSOPHY by Jim Rohn

Over the years I've been teaching kids about a simple but powerful concept - the ant philosophy. I think everybody should study ants. They have an amazing four-part philosophy, and here is the first part: ants never quit. That's a good philosophy. If they're headed somewhere and you try to stop them, they'll look for another way. They'll climb over, they'll climb under, and they’ll climb around. They keep looking for another way. What a neat philosophy, to never quit looking for a way to get where you're supposed to go.

Second, ants think winter all summer. That's an important perspective. You can't be so naive as to think summer will last forever. So ants are gathering in their winter food in the middle of summer.

An ancient story says, "Don't build your house on the sand in the summer." Why do we need that advice? Because it is important to be realistic. In the summer, you've got to think storm. You've got to think rocks as you enjoy the sand and sun. Think ahead.

The third part of the ant philosophy is that ants think summer all winter. That is so important. During the winter, ants remind themselves, "This won't last long; we'll soon be out of here." And the first warm day, the ants are out. If it turns cold again, they'll dive back down, but then they come out the first warm day. They can't wait to get out.

And here's the last part of the ant philosophy. How much will an ant gather during the summer to prepare for the winter? All that he possibly can. What an incredible philosophy, the "all-that-you-possibly-can" philosophy.

Wow, what a great seminar to attend - the ant seminar. Never give up, look ahead, stay positive and do all you can.

To Your Success, Jim Rohn

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Did you like Jim Rohn’s piece? Although it is written in a secular voice, the ancient stories he is referencing come from the Bible. There is probably a whole Bible study that could evolve from correlating this one little story to Scripture.

The challenge for you, dear readers, is to see how much Scripture you can correlate to the story. Don’t forget to quote book, chapter, and verse in your references. Why not take 10 or 15 minutes, and see where the Spirit leads you with this? I’m looking forward to hearing from everybody.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Dangerous Belonging

2009-10-24T23:13:00.000-07:00

On October 18th, 2009 Pastor Bob Mooney delivered a message as part of our month-long ‘Belonging’ series. His sermon elaborated on a theme that I have often written about, but he presents it in such a wonderful way that I talked him into letting me share it here as a blog post. Even if you were present to hear Pastor Bob deliver this powerful message, I encourage you to read it; you’ll be surprised. Every time I re-read this message, the Holy Spirit uncovers yet another facet of hope, love, and belonging for me to place in my heart. Here is Pastor Bob’s message:

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Dangerous Belonging

By Pastor Bob Mooney, Messiah Lutheran Church, Yorba Linda, California

I’ve had the ‘Cheers’ opening theme song in my head for a number of weeks now:

“Making your way in the world today takes every thing you’ve got. Taking a break from all your worries sure would help a lot. Wouldn’t you like to get away? Sometimes you want to go where everybody knows your name. And they’re always glad you came. You want to go where people know troubles are all the same. You want to go where everybody knows your name.”

Of course, though the song is referring to a neighborhood bar as the place where “everybody knows your name” actually it should be the description of what it means to belong to the body of Christ.

There is something very appealing about being in a place where you are known and appreciated, where people are glad to see you and you are reminded of the commonality of the human condition. Does that fit anywhere or anything you belong to? Where you do not have to prove yourself to belong, where belonging is the beginning point and you grow from there?

What does that really mean? What is different now? I’ve been pondering the questions, “Who am I?” and “What does it mean to belong?”

Dictionary.com offers three variations to define the word. The first listing says, “To be in the relation of a member”. That is pretty straightforward. The second one says, “To have the proper qualifications, especially social qualification to be a member of a group.” Ah, now we are getting down to the nitty-gritty. The notion of belonging can carry an intimation of exclusion. A person either belongs to a particular group or they don’t. I got thinking of my son’s stories about pledging a fraternity in college. Fraternities would scout out the freshman in search of the right people, the ones they deemed worthy to wear their particular set of Greek letters. Remember that great Groucho Marx quip about membership? He said, “I sent the club a wire stating, PLEASE ACCEPT MY RESIGNATION. I DON'T WANT TO BELONG TO ANY CLUB THAT WILL ACCEPT ME AS A MEMBER.”

That certainly is not how we here at Messiah should find belonging in the family of God.

This brings us to the third variation on Dictionary.com which says that to belong is to “Be properly or appropriately placed”, as in the ‘books belong on the shelf.’ This third definition is the one that most resonates with me. That sense of belonging is like finding yourself at home. I have known many people who described their feelings upon discovering our community here at Messiah in exactly those same terms.

It is also true that many people associate themselves with being Christian but do not belong to any part of the body of Christ. I suspect that some of these people might define themselves as “fiercely independent”. Perhaps they feel like they would have to sacrifice too much of themselves, give up too much of their individuality, to belong to a congregation. I can understand that. Belonging to a group says something about a person’s identity. I think it is important for us to realize there are some things that are healthy for us to belong to and some things that are dangerous to belong to. In fact, if we do not know who we are, or we forget who we are, any group can become dangerous, including the church.

Now it is obvious there are some groups that we say are bad to belong to: the KKK for instance, or being in a gang. We see these as dangerous. Why would people associate with them? The draw is the need to belong… in this gang, I can belong, I can be protected, but in order to get that I have to do something to earn my right to belong. We can also clearly see the fear that goes with this belonging, that if I do not do what they require I am out, or even worse, I might be injured or killed. We clearly see the dangers of that kind of belonging.

Belonging identifies us. It might be dangerous (at least uncomfortable) for a Stanford fan, to belong to a community of USC or UCLA fans. Sometimes it is fear that creates the desire to belong, fear of being alone, fear of not be part of the group, or fear of not being good enough. That usually boils down to, at some level, that we either do not know, or don’t remember, who we are and who we belong to.

It is so easy to talk about how we are overcommitted; that we are too involved in groups and causes. I don’t really think that is the issue. I don’t need to be beat up for good things I am doing or that we are involved in, and the involvement in the church can be equally as dangerous as soccer, scouts, or a lot of other good things. HOW can that be?

Where trying to belong becomes dangerous, is when we are using the group to determine our value or our worth. When I was in high school I was on the wrestling team my freshman year, I was in the 142 weight category and there were 5 other guys in my division, they all had played football, all lifted weights, were all pretty buff for freshman and sophomores, and then there was me. I did not play football, I had never lifted weights, I had never wrestled, and in a group of 6 in my weight division I was rated 9th. I was terrible, and I lived in fear that each day they would discover anew how bad I was. Yes, I know that it can be a good growing experience, it can be a challenge to push yourself to become better, it can also be disheartening, because what I wanted was to belong to this group, and in order to do that I had to be something more than I was. If I could be better, if I could pin someone, if I could lift so much weight… then I had value. I felt I had no value, unless I was a jock. My brother and my dad were pretty good athletes, I figured that was my way to belong. Unless I could rise up above someone else, I was not going to belong. My performance is what would make me belong.

Now honestly, on sports teams, that is not going to change. That does not make that team bad. It is how we understand how that fits into who we are. Wrestling teams can be good things. They teach commitment, dedication, hard work, and team work, among other things.

What can change is my beginning point, my place on the wrestling team will be determined by what I do, by my accomplishments, by my hard work, but it will not be the team that defines who I am.

The same is true of belonging to the church. In fact the church will not be the team that defines who I am; it is where we learn to live out who we are. Who I am, and who I belong to begins for each of us simply with the relationship we have with God. I don’t get to earn that; it is about trusting God to provide for us, it is about believing that we are of great value, and that then motivates us to do and be our best in all things. As a wrestler, a teacher, a soccer player or coach, a Boy Scout or Girl Scout, belonging to any of these groups or professions is not the ultimate definition of who you and I are.

In John 10:10, Jesus says:

“I have come that you may have life and have it to the full, and have it abundantly.”

Look at that word LIFE. What would it mean for you? Do you find yourself always trying to prove yourself to the group, have you ever found yourself on the verge of being in a group, or out of a group? Each of those positions fills us with fear.

Think of all things we go through life fearing: we fear not having enough money, we fear being sued, we fear finishing last, we fear losing our job, we fear the spot on our forehead, we fear going to the new school, we fear graduating, we fear not graduating, we fear being alone, we fear being found out, we fear someone will know our weakness or our pain.

And over and over again God tells us: “fear not.” Do not worry, do not be anxious? Sometimes there are storms going on around us and within us, we are afraid someone will notice, and we are afraid. We are afraid we don’t measure up and someone won’t let us in to the group, or on the team. If they knew this about us they would not let us belong. Fear is at the center of our loss of control; we become tense, shorter with people and sometimes do things completely out of character for ourselves. Fear creates this spiritual amnesia and makes us forget who we are and whose we are, and fear makes us believe we don’t belong.

Is there a cure for this fear? Is there any way to know that I belong? The way I understand it, our identity is actually wrapped up in how we see God and experience God. This sense of belonging and our own personal growth is developed and lived out through engagement with one another. Belonging to God does not mean ‘just me and Jesus… and that’s all I need.’ The deep sense of belonging comes from healthy community where this commitment God has made to us is experienced in, and through, the body of Christ. When the body is healthy we realize this is the place we can celebrate with each other our greatest joys and successes, and it is the place we can bring our deepest fears, failures, and sorrows… and be cared for.

We are reminded in Philippians 4:6-9 that,

“6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable - if anything is excellent or praiseworthy - think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me - put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.”

This is what it means to belong to God, to live in that belonging. This peace of God, circle that in verses 7 and 9. It is an inner tranquility that is based on the reality that our sins are forgiven, that God is in the business of making us whole.

This week, I was given a gift. The gift is a beautiful clock that is made up of broken pieces that have been lovingly fitted with other broken pieces to create something beautiful, unique, and useful. My new clock reminds me of all the broken pieces and lives put back together by the love and grace of God… and because we belong, we can live lives of service and love to one another. It does not mean that there are no more storms or trials. It does not mean that we won’t mess us. It does mean that we are never alone. It is not just psychological jargon; it is an inner tranquility that can come from knowing that we belong to the God that created the universe. He is concerned about us, knows the number of hairs on our heads, knows what we need, and knows every detail of our life.

A number of years ago after the murder of Cindy Connelly her husband Phil wrote me a note that said “I know why God brought Cindy to Messiah, so that when she was gone I would have a place to belong.” In Phil’s deepest sorrow he realized that he needed a place where he could simply belong, that it was a place to begin, not to earn. So much of our faith is about loving one another, loving God, and bringing peace and justice into the world, into our community and into the lives of each other. It is so much easier to do this work when we have a place to come together to rest, reflect and reenergize ourselves.

Psychologists who study the theory of love and attachment tell us how much human beings need to belong with someone, to someone. It is how God wired us. We come into the world physically and emotionally dependent upon others for our very survival. As we grow up we tend to accept the delusion that to be a mature adult means we shed this dependency; that we become independent. It is true that it is important to learn how to move through the world on our own, but it would be a mistake to think that we stop relying on other people, especially for emotional support. The healthy life of belonging is to be dependent on God and interdependent with others.

A woman I know is raising two teenage kids by herself. She is now the sole provider for her family and has to make all those tough decisions that childrearing demands all by herself. At the end of her day she does not have someone with whom to discuss the best way to handle discipline issues, or worry along with her about the relationship choices her kids are making. Recently she admitted to me that she crawls into bed at night exhausted and depleted and sometimes feels helplessly alone. I just keep thinking that it is not supposed to be this way. I don’t think that people are equipped to raise children in isolation from the support of a community of some kind. It is just too much. She is afraid that if people knew her deep struggle they would turn away from her, she is embarrassed by her own need, and so she shuts out those who could remind her most clearly that she belongs.

We belong to each other. And we all know someone who is in pain, either in body or soul. So many people want to belong.

This is my hope for each of us: that we allow Messiah to become the place where everybody knows your name. Because here we belong to each other, here we realize and we remember who we are and whose we are. Here we can taste what it means to have life and have it abundantly, and to know that it is God’s deepest desire for us.

********************

I’m humbled and blessed to be a part of such a great community where God’s Holy Spirit is so alive. But this is just where I’ve been planted; where I feel called to live, love, share, worship, pray, and serve. How is your community? Are you just ‘church’, or are you a fellowship in Christ? Does everybody know YOUR name? More importantly… do you know THEIR name? Share your experience… good or bad, by posting a reply.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

Whispers

2009-10-17T16:26:00.000-07:00

Grrrr! Almost a week has gone by, and I still haven’t been able to post the entry I had in mind for last week. What was once just a minor delay has begun to take on growing proportions, and the whispers are threatening to take over.

Last Sunday, Pastor Bob gave a wonderful message. This is not really all that remarkable. Pastor Bob and Pastor Ron are great preachers and usually give wonderful messages; I must admit, though, some of their messages fall into the realm of “really awesome” sometimes. Anyway, Pastor Bob had been given a unique clock, and I was impressed by how he described it and wove it into his message. I took a picture of Bob with the clock, and asked if he could send me his sermon notes so I could quote him correctly in a blog post. As he had just completed the last service of the day, he smiled and graciously handed me his sermon notes. Well, as I helped Pastor Bob lock up, we chatted. We continued to chat across the campus, up to his office, and out to the parking lot, and… somewhere along the line, I put down the notes and lost them. Well, not lost in the technical sense, just misplaced while I was doing something else. I hope I didn't shove them into the offering bag. The counters might think Pastor Bob was sending them a message. LOL!

I was fairly certain that Pastor Bob must have an electronic copy. How else would he have printed it? So I dashed off an email asking if I could presume upon him to attach it to a reply and send it to me.

I didn’t get a reply, but I did start hearing whispers: “Even if he doesn’t have an electronic copy, couldn’t he at least reply back saying so? How hard is it to attach a file? It’s can’t take more than 2 minutes of his day! It’s not like I’m hard to contact… I write a blog for the church. My phone number has been the same for over 30 years!”

But, hey; I know how email can get lost in the shuffle. I know how one thing leads to another, and how the best laid plans often get sidetracked. So I called the church… several times. I kept missing Pastor Bob (he’s a busy guy), but got assurances that he’d call me back.

I didn’t get any return calls, but I did get more whispers: “Is everything else in the world so much more important that I can’t get a call back? Am I that unimportant? Do I only matter when they need me to something?”

I tried to shake off the whispers: “Bob loves me. He cares about me. It’s probably just a silly misunderstanding. I’ll see him Sunday and find out how we managed to get so disconnected. We’ll probably have a big laugh about all this.”

Then a new set of whispers started.

I checked my voicemail Wednesday night to hear a message from my friend Jim. The church was starting a new study series, and though I had signed up, I had heard nothing about being part of any group. The message was time-stamped from Monday, but somehow my message server did not deliver it until Wednesday! Later, I found out that the message server had experienced a crash; no messages were lost, just delayed in their delivery. As I listened to the message I heard how the group had missed me last Wednesday evening, but were looking forward to me being there this Wednesday. I was hearing the message too late to do anything. I had now missed two weeks! I didn’t even know where they were meeting.

The whispers were definitely increasing in volume and intensity: “How is it that NOBODY could call and talk to me personally?!? My doctor, my dentist, and the Red Cross can all call me to remind me of appointments… can’t my church call and tell me I’m part of a new small group? Can’t the group leader touch base with me? Shouldn’t I at least be informed of when and where they are meeting?”

Again, I took a step back and realized that somebody had tried to reach me, and a series of breakdowns had kept me from hearing the information. Sometimes we depend on technology so much we forget that we might not always be connecting all the way to our intended target. Then I had another revelation… my ISP (Internet Service Provider) had changed the way it allows outside domains to communicate with it. Long story short: my email had not been connecting properly between my domain and my ISP (SMTP and POP3 changes for all you techies). Turns out, I may have lost more than a few email messages.

When Jesus was in the desert, he was tempted by Satan (Matthew 4:1; Mark 1:13). Jesus experienced the very same temptations we experience. He heard the same whispers, but he recognized them for what they were: lies. We go through our own spiritual deserts… sometimes it seems on a daily basis. For that reason we pray:

“Lead us not into temptation.”

And yet, the whispers persist. Satan is persistent! For that reason we pray:

“Deliver us from evil.”

This is why it is so important to REALLY invite Jesus into your heart and your life. We are broken people. We are sinful by our very nature. We try to do our best, but our churches are imperfect, our pastors are imperfect, we are imperfect, and most of all… I am imperfect. When we truly open our hearts to God, we begin to walk with Jesus, and we have the power to say:

“Get thee behind me, Satan! I’m not listening to your evil whispers any more!”

Your brother in Christ,

Dave

The Giraffe Test

2009-10-08T14:14:00.000-07:00

How’s your thinking? Perhaps you have a good job, a college degree, and years of training and experience. All of those things are nice, but it’s really important that you can still think. The following short quiz tests your ability to think in various ways.

Question #1:
How do you put a giraffe into a refrigerator?

Come on now… play along and answer the question.

* scroll down for the answer *

Answer:
Open the refrigerator, put the giraffe in, and close the refrigerator.

Note:
This question identifies whether you think of simple answers, or if you overly complicate things.

Question #2:
How do you put an elephant into a refrigerator?

Hey… it’s just like before… answer the question.

Did you say, "Open the refrigerator, put the elephant in, and close the refrigerator?"

(Wrong Answer)

* scroll down for the answer *

Answer:
Open the refrigerator, take out the giraffe, put in the elephant, and close the door.

Note:
This question measures your ability to think through the consequences of your actions.

Question #3:
The King of the Jungle is having a party. All the animals attend except one. Which animal does not attend?

Come on … you know this one.

* scroll down for the answer *

Answer:
The Elephant; the elephant is in the refrigerator. You just put him in there.

Note:
This question tests whether you use all available information.
OK, you still have one more chance to show your true abilities.

Question #4:
There is a river you must cross but it is inhabited by crocodiles. How do you manage it?

Hmmm… Oh, and you haven’t got a boat, either!

* scroll down for the answer *

Answer:
You swim across. All the crocodiles are attending the party.

Note:
This question judges whether you can focus on the big picture, not just a small part of it.

Interestingly… 90% of adults tested got all the questions wrong, but 70% of preschoolers answered them all correctly. Some adults I know just cannot get past the first answer. They protest that it is silly to think that you could possibly put a giraffe in a refrigerator. Their ‘adult’ mind gets so stuck that they completely disconnect from all of the rest of the questions. Children, on the other hand have no trouble imagining being able to fit a giraffe, or even an elephant, in a refrigerator; they haven’t been taught yet to accept what society believes to be physical limitations.

In Matthew 11:25, Jesus observes:

“I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned, and revealed them to little children.”

Adults consider themselves to be among ‘the wise and the learned’ and live in a world of experience, facts, and scientific proof. So often, though, their scientific proof is nothing more than repeated experience that they take for fact. At various times throughout history, the wise and the learned have declared:

- The Earth is the center of the universe;
- The Sun revolves around the Earth;
- The Earth is flat;
- Men will never fly;
- It is impossible to travel through the vacuum of outer space;

How many other statements, which once were accepted as fact can you think of that, have eventually been proven false?

Little children, however, live mostly in a world of faith. We ‘wise and learned’ adults have a lot to learn from little children! While sharing Bible stories with the little kids on Sunday mornings, I find them to be often much wiser than adults. Here are a few of the things some of the youngest kids have taught me:

Hold hands.
When they go back and forth from their classrooms to the story area, they hold hands so they can stay together, and so that nobody gets lost. As adults, we should remember to hold on to one another so we stay together, and hold on to God so we don’t get lost.

Run to get picked up.
If a little one is afraid, falls down, or is tired… they run to mommy or daddy throw up their arms, and cry: “Pick me up. Carry me!” Being grown-up, self-sufficient, and independent, we adults seldom run to our heavenly Father crying: “Pick me up. Carry me!” If we look back on some of our greatest challenges, however, we often realize that we didn’t come through on our own… God was carrying us.

Forgiving means forgetting.
Kids squabble; it’s a fact of life. Whether it is over a toy, a snack, or a place on the mat for story time… they often push, shove, or otherwise act inappropriately toward each other. Usually a parent or teacher steps in, stops the inappropriate action, metes out justice, and possibly rebukes one or both of the children. Amazingly, they are playing happily with each other only seconds later. Once the situation is over… it’s over! Children seem able to forget about the fight (as well as the behavior that led to the fight) almost as if it never happened. Wouldn’t the world be a nicer place if adults stopped listening to that ‘wise and learned’ voice that tells them never to forget the wrong, never to let go of the hurt, and ultimately… never to forgive.

See the wonder of the world.
There is no joy like the joy of 70 young children experiencing some new and wondrous thing all together. I get to see this all the time while sharing Bible stories with them on Sunday mornings. They shriek with laughter, they can hardly contain themselves while franticly waving their hands to get picked to help with the story, and they can’t wait to share the news of new things they have just experienced. So many adults seem to have acquired a ‘been there, done that’ attitude that they can hardly smile anymore, let alone laugh out loud; God forbid that they should EVER shriek with laughter! It is distressing to me to hear people confess that they don’t attend church because they are basically afraid that God is going to call on them; ‘to pick’ them to help out with the story. The kids keep reminding me to boldly share my wondrous experiences and God’s exciting Good News!

Know who loves you.
From the preschoolers who sing “Jesus loves me, this I know…” to the 5th graders who can quote John 3:16, all of the children in our fellowship know exactly who loves them. In our wisdom and our learnedness, we adults alternately see ourselves as so bad that God cannot possible love us, or we see God as unloving… listening to the ‘wise and learned’ argument that a loving god would not let bad things happen to good people. Thankfully, if you choose to live life with the spirit of a child, you can know exactly who loves you without reservation… God!

Yes, as we grow to be adults, there comes a time when we should put away childish things. We shouldn’t walk around with a pacifier in our mouth, we probably need to let go of the security blanket, and we should learn not to cry and whine just because we are tired or hungry. Sadly, we all know plenty of adults that still haven’t learned these lessons.

Though I have put away childish things, I pray that I continue to live with the heart, the spirit, and the faith of a small child.

Your brother in Christ,

Dave