As I am sitting here, I have continued to reflect on the fruits of the spirit. Next week I will be talking about patience. I continue to see that the passage in Galatians that started this series builds on one another. That is why love is listed first, joy next, peace and now patience. If we are to find peace either as one comment was as a process not outcome we need to be rooted in love of God and love of neighbor as Jesus commanded. As we strive for the perfection as Wesley called it of love, we experience joy and find peace both inner and in community.
Sunday is All Saints Sunday where we honor those who have been so instrumental in our church and community who have gone home. The gospel lesson comes from Matthew 5:1-12 the beatitudes. This will be the start of a series of sermons on being thankful. Actually I had asked people October 26th to remember what they are thankful about especially in these difficult times. One way of helping ease our anxieties is to remember how God has blessed us with family, friends, work, and our nation and community. When we take time to remember, I believe that there can be moments of peace in our prayers of thankfulness.
Shalom to all of you
Eldon
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
comments from John Wesley about economy
I came across this from our newsletter at the umcneb.org. I thought it was interesting to read especially applying this to our present economic situation.
Commentary: John Wesley's advice on the economy Oct. 16, 2008 A UMNS Commentary By J. Richard Peck*The year was 1772 as John Wesley addressed a letter to the editor of "Lloyd's Evening Post" regarding the causes of and cures for high unemployment, food shortages and dismal economic conditions.More than two centuries later, the United States is struggling with a meltdown on Wall Street, skyrocketing gas prices and inadequate health care. But our diminished economy would scarcely rival that of England in 1772.Wesley, who was 69 at the time, starts by asking why. "Why are thousands of people starving--perishing for want, in every part of England?"The founder of the Methodist movement then describes the London situation: "I have known those who could only afford to eat a little coarse food every other day. I have known one picking up stinking sprats from a dunghill, and carrying them home for herself and her children. I have known another gathering the bones, which the dogs had left in the streets, and making broth of them, to prolong a wretched life."Examining the causes Wesley blamed several English practices for the impoverished state of the nation: 1. The wasteful use of grain to produce alcohol. "Have we not reason to believe that half of the wheat produced in the kingdom is every year consumed, not by so harmless a way as throwing it into the sea, but by converting it into deadly poison-poison that naturally destroys, not only the strength and life, but also the morals of our countrymen."2. Wealthy people who need horses for sport, pleasure and export. "Most of the considerable farmers, particularly in the northern counties, who used to breed large numbers of sheep or horned cattle, and frequently both, no longer trouble themselves with either sheep, or cows, or oxen; as they can turn their land to far better account, by breeding horses alone. Such is the demand, not only for coach and chaise horses, which are bought and destroyed in incredible numbers; but much more for bred horses, which are yearly exported by hundreds, yea thousands, to France."3. Unproductive large farms had replaced small family farms, causing a shortage of poultry, pork and eggs. "Every one of these little farmers kept a few swine, with some quantity of poultry; and, having little money, was glad to send his bacon, or pork, or fowls and eggs, to market continually. Hence, the markets were plentifully served, and plenty created cheapness; but, at present, the great, the gentlemen farmers, are above attending to these little things. They breed no poultry or swine, unless for their own use; consequently they send none to market."4. High taxes. "Enormous taxes are laid on almost everything that can be named. Not only abundant taxes are raised from earth, and fire, and water; but, in England, the ingenious statesmen have found a way to tax light. Only one element--air-- remains, and surely some man of honor will contrive to tax this also. For how long shall the saucy air blow in the face of a gentleman, nay, a lord, without paying for it?"5. The national debt. "Taxes are high because of the national debt. I have heard that the national expense, in the time of peace, was, sixty years ago, three million a year. Now the bare interest of the public debt amounts to above four million. To raise which, with the other expenses of government, those taxes are absolutely necessary."Identifying curesJohn Wesley believed that most of the economic problems of the day were caused by a growing disparity between the rich and the poor. Wesley felt the cure was to repress "luxury, either by example, by laws, or both." He asked legislators to establish laws that would prohibit the distillation of alcohol. While he lamented high taxes upon the poor and middle class, he called for additional taxes on luxury items such as horses and carriages. He suggested people be taxed on what they purchased rather than upon what they earned.He also expressed concern about future generations and called for a reduction of the national debt. In short, Wesley called for higher taxes upon the wealthy and laws that would prohibit the wasting of natural products. While Wesley did not tell the readers of "Lloyd's Evening Post" about his personal actions, he organized groups of Methodists to visit the London workhouses where poor people were housed and employed. The groups also provided worship services for the inmates, most of whom were children and elderly persons.Lessons learnedContemporary application of Wesley's advice would suggest that the U.S. Congress should reduce taxes on the poor and middle class, add taxes to luxury items, eliminate taxes upon necessities, introduce laws that govern the use of natural resources, and take steps to reduce the $10 trillion national debt-a debt that has increased by 71.9 percent over the last eight years.A record 28 million Americans are now receiving food stamps. While he did not write about his personal actions, John Wesley's life serves as an example to United Methodists about our personal obligation to care for poor and vulnerable persons through a variety of means.Using his own life as an example, Wesley also would suggest less reliance upon pharmaceuticals. While he experimented with alternative health practices, he rose each morning at 4 o'clock and relied heavily on an active life style. He lived to age 88.*Peck is a retired clergy member of the New York Annual Conference and the communications director of the Commission on Methodist Men.
Commentary: John Wesley's advice on the economy Oct. 16, 2008 A UMNS Commentary By J. Richard Peck*The year was 1772 as John Wesley addressed a letter to the editor of "Lloyd's Evening Post" regarding the causes of and cures for high unemployment, food shortages and dismal economic conditions.More than two centuries later, the United States is struggling with a meltdown on Wall Street, skyrocketing gas prices and inadequate health care. But our diminished economy would scarcely rival that of England in 1772.Wesley, who was 69 at the time, starts by asking why. "Why are thousands of people starving--perishing for want, in every part of England?"The founder of the Methodist movement then describes the London situation: "I have known those who could only afford to eat a little coarse food every other day. I have known one picking up stinking sprats from a dunghill, and carrying them home for herself and her children. I have known another gathering the bones, which the dogs had left in the streets, and making broth of them, to prolong a wretched life."Examining the causes Wesley blamed several English practices for the impoverished state of the nation: 1. The wasteful use of grain to produce alcohol. "Have we not reason to believe that half of the wheat produced in the kingdom is every year consumed, not by so harmless a way as throwing it into the sea, but by converting it into deadly poison-poison that naturally destroys, not only the strength and life, but also the morals of our countrymen."2. Wealthy people who need horses for sport, pleasure and export. "Most of the considerable farmers, particularly in the northern counties, who used to breed large numbers of sheep or horned cattle, and frequently both, no longer trouble themselves with either sheep, or cows, or oxen; as they can turn their land to far better account, by breeding horses alone. Such is the demand, not only for coach and chaise horses, which are bought and destroyed in incredible numbers; but much more for bred horses, which are yearly exported by hundreds, yea thousands, to France."3. Unproductive large farms had replaced small family farms, causing a shortage of poultry, pork and eggs. "Every one of these little farmers kept a few swine, with some quantity of poultry; and, having little money, was glad to send his bacon, or pork, or fowls and eggs, to market continually. Hence, the markets were plentifully served, and plenty created cheapness; but, at present, the great, the gentlemen farmers, are above attending to these little things. They breed no poultry or swine, unless for their own use; consequently they send none to market."4. High taxes. "Enormous taxes are laid on almost everything that can be named. Not only abundant taxes are raised from earth, and fire, and water; but, in England, the ingenious statesmen have found a way to tax light. Only one element--air-- remains, and surely some man of honor will contrive to tax this also. For how long shall the saucy air blow in the face of a gentleman, nay, a lord, without paying for it?"5. The national debt. "Taxes are high because of the national debt. I have heard that the national expense, in the time of peace, was, sixty years ago, three million a year. Now the bare interest of the public debt amounts to above four million. To raise which, with the other expenses of government, those taxes are absolutely necessary."Identifying curesJohn Wesley believed that most of the economic problems of the day were caused by a growing disparity between the rich and the poor. Wesley felt the cure was to repress "luxury, either by example, by laws, or both." He asked legislators to establish laws that would prohibit the distillation of alcohol. While he lamented high taxes upon the poor and middle class, he called for additional taxes on luxury items such as horses and carriages. He suggested people be taxed on what they purchased rather than upon what they earned.He also expressed concern about future generations and called for a reduction of the national debt. In short, Wesley called for higher taxes upon the wealthy and laws that would prohibit the wasting of natural products. While Wesley did not tell the readers of "Lloyd's Evening Post" about his personal actions, he organized groups of Methodists to visit the London workhouses where poor people were housed and employed. The groups also provided worship services for the inmates, most of whom were children and elderly persons.Lessons learnedContemporary application of Wesley's advice would suggest that the U.S. Congress should reduce taxes on the poor and middle class, add taxes to luxury items, eliminate taxes upon necessities, introduce laws that govern the use of natural resources, and take steps to reduce the $10 trillion national debt-a debt that has increased by 71.9 percent over the last eight years.A record 28 million Americans are now receiving food stamps. While he did not write about his personal actions, John Wesley's life serves as an example to United Methodists about our personal obligation to care for poor and vulnerable persons through a variety of means.Using his own life as an example, Wesley also would suggest less reliance upon pharmaceuticals. While he experimented with alternative health practices, he rose each morning at 4 o'clock and relied heavily on an active life style. He lived to age 88.*Peck is a retired clergy member of the New York Annual Conference and the communications director of the Commission on Methodist Men.
Peace and justice
Tonight I will be reflecting on the fruit of peace that comes from the Spirit. Peace is a word that is so bandied about that sometimes we have lost connection with what that means. Is peace just the absence of war or hostility or is it something else entirely. Actually the words in Greek that denote peace are three. One deals with the inner feeling of calmness and serenity. Another deals with community. The third which is mostly used includes those ideas and also the idea of Shalom.
I have been reading this leadership book on Leadership and Self-deception. It is an interesting book and one that I would recommend to those who want to look at their leadership styles. There are some interesting aspects that deal with our own ethnocentric views that influence what others do and how they perceive one another. I have learned that some of the frustrations that I have had both in past and recent may be more of my issues than others. Concerns of control and people acting in ways of controlling ideas and people, I have always struggled with maybe because of the ways that without knowing I have done the same. The same is true about communication either the lack of or mis-communication that can sabotage the work that we are about. If you want to look at what that might be for you, read the book.
So what does this have to do with peace? Jesus talks about peace in the gospels. Peace would be letting go of my ways and seeking concord or community with the people around me. It means sitting at a common table and sharing from the same bread and cup. Peace helps set up truth not just on the outside but truth in our souls. Also peace is tied with justice. Isa 48.18 states that when justice is done peace will flow like a river. And Isa 32.16-19 states when peace is done justice will grow like a flower.
So in the midst of turmoil, chaos, and anxiety, may God's peace of shalom and justice be with you.
I have been reading this leadership book on Leadership and Self-deception. It is an interesting book and one that I would recommend to those who want to look at their leadership styles. There are some interesting aspects that deal with our own ethnocentric views that influence what others do and how they perceive one another. I have learned that some of the frustrations that I have had both in past and recent may be more of my issues than others. Concerns of control and people acting in ways of controlling ideas and people, I have always struggled with maybe because of the ways that without knowing I have done the same. The same is true about communication either the lack of or mis-communication that can sabotage the work that we are about. If you want to look at what that might be for you, read the book.
So what does this have to do with peace? Jesus talks about peace in the gospels. Peace would be letting go of my ways and seeking concord or community with the people around me. It means sitting at a common table and sharing from the same bread and cup. Peace helps set up truth not just on the outside but truth in our souls. Also peace is tied with justice. Isa 48.18 states that when justice is done peace will flow like a river. And Isa 32.16-19 states when peace is done justice will grow like a flower.
So in the midst of turmoil, chaos, and anxiety, may God's peace of shalom and justice be with you.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
What can we depend on?
This Sunday I will be looking at what is it that we can depend on especially in time of turmoil throughout the world. It seems that the world continues to focus on fears, worries, wars, and what is wrong rather than focusing on what is going well. Political candidates malign each other rather than offer solutions to promote peace and stability. Even some of the religious experts spend more time attacking others than offering hope to those who are worried about what is happening in our nation and our country. No wonder people are worried and despairing.
With all of that going on, I was with a couple for dinner and they stated whether or not we have been so affected by the crisis. Certainly those who have a home, food, means of transportation, health insurance, and family and friends have not been so greatly effected. Those who lacked the above continue to lack the above and those who were close to being homeless have been affected by this current recession. This is the time that we need to rise above blaming and begin to look at what God is calling us to do with what we have. Our nation has faced tough economic times before and the way people survived was based more on cooperation and not on blame.
So what can we depend on but on God's continued love and mercy which never is dependent on the stock market or who is in any political office. As we face our choices especially as we come to this election year, rather than base our freedom to vote on fears, innuendos, and blame let us take time to reflect on what Jesus taught us and vote according to those principles. I would also suggest that we contact leaders of both parties and inform them that negative ads do more to create chaos and distrust in our nation towards each other. Enough is Enough!
With all of that going on, I was with a couple for dinner and they stated whether or not we have been so affected by the crisis. Certainly those who have a home, food, means of transportation, health insurance, and family and friends have not been so greatly effected. Those who lacked the above continue to lack the above and those who were close to being homeless have been affected by this current recession. This is the time that we need to rise above blaming and begin to look at what God is calling us to do with what we have. Our nation has faced tough economic times before and the way people survived was based more on cooperation and not on blame.
So what can we depend on but on God's continued love and mercy which never is dependent on the stock market or who is in any political office. As we face our choices especially as we come to this election year, rather than base our freedom to vote on fears, innuendos, and blame let us take time to reflect on what Jesus taught us and vote according to those principles. I would also suggest that we contact leaders of both parties and inform them that negative ads do more to create chaos and distrust in our nation towards each other. Enough is Enough!
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Back from vacation
I have returned from vacation and from meetings the last two days. During the time that I was off, Nancy and I had the opportunity to visit other churches in the area. One was at Syracuse where Rev. Tony Dawson is appointed. Tony was one of the pastors who pushed me to consider being a pastor. His sermon dealt with letting our light shine. What was great was the idea that even in the most of the difficult times, we need to continue to remember what we should be thankful for and to appreciate those around us. I always find it interesting how the Spirit works as we went to Faith Westwood the next Sunday and Dr. Doug Delp was preaching on Living life passionately. He was using a resource to help shape his sermon series One Month to Live. He presented the ideas what would you do differently if you had only one month to live. Would you do things that you have been putting off? There is a book of daily meditations that deal with this topic. What would it take to live that way now rather than wait?
Interesting questions and insights from two very well done sermons. I found that there was a comfort in what both Tony and Doug had to offer in my life. Especially in today's economic crisis it would be easy to fall prey to worry and anxiety. I am not saying that there should be no concern about what is happening and there is a need to manage one's finances better. Yet, I wonder if that is the whole story of our time. Have we gotten so concerned about money that we have lost sense of paying attention to what God is doing now. I am also reading a book on Leadership and Self-Deception that talks about the way we live our lives in boxes that create problems with perceiving things that happen around us. When we do live in the box, we tend to be only concerned about ourselves and not others and when things go wrong or don't follow the way I believe they should go, I will blame everyone but myself. That way I can continue to justify my attitudes and behaviors.
Tonight I plan to speak to the fruits of the Spirit. We started with Love which is foundational. With listening to the sermons and reading the books that I am reading, this is more important than ever for us to model and to remember that God does Love us. Tonight we will be looking at Joy which arises out of love. This weekend at the services we will be looking at Psalm 90 and examining what can we count on in our lives.
Interesting questions and insights from two very well done sermons. I found that there was a comfort in what both Tony and Doug had to offer in my life. Especially in today's economic crisis it would be easy to fall prey to worry and anxiety. I am not saying that there should be no concern about what is happening and there is a need to manage one's finances better. Yet, I wonder if that is the whole story of our time. Have we gotten so concerned about money that we have lost sense of paying attention to what God is doing now. I am also reading a book on Leadership and Self-Deception that talks about the way we live our lives in boxes that create problems with perceiving things that happen around us. When we do live in the box, we tend to be only concerned about ourselves and not others and when things go wrong or don't follow the way I believe they should go, I will blame everyone but myself. That way I can continue to justify my attitudes and behaviors.
Tonight I plan to speak to the fruits of the Spirit. We started with Love which is foundational. With listening to the sermons and reading the books that I am reading, this is more important than ever for us to model and to remember that God does Love us. Tonight we will be looking at Joy which arises out of love. This weekend at the services we will be looking at Psalm 90 and examining what can we count on in our lives.
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