Just a quick note

Nancy and I will blessed with the receiving of a cd done by Spirit Wave which is a gospel group from Auburn United Methodist Church. We have known the members of the group every since we joined the church down in Auburn prior to my going into ministry. The group are quite talented and I greatly enjoy their music. They even came to Springfield to sing.
What makes this CD even more exciting is that Nancy did the art work on the cover of the album and the CD. It is great to continue to be part of the group's work. I would invite those who might be interested to come and listen to them.

Wednesday December 9th

We survived another snow storm. We received about 8-9" and with the wind had a four foot drift in the middle of our driveway. With that drift and the one made by the street by the plows, there was a part of me wondering if I would not have to get out until the next thaw. All I have is a snow shovel and a small electric snow blower that certainly is a help but with those drifts nearly impossible to use. As I was using the small snow blower having to lift and use it like a shovel someone drove by with a plow on their pickup. He and his wife turned around and plowed out the driveway. I did not know them and when I asked if I could do anything for them all they said was "that is what neighbors are for." Indeed that is what it means to be a neighbor to do something for someone that you don't know and not expect anything in return. I guess that is why it is important to thank those who help you and to pass it forward to someone else.

What made this more meaningful for me, was that I was reading for our Advent study about there was no room for them at the inn Luke 2:7b. The author was talking about that the very first villain in the New Testament was the inn keeper. Where I don't necessarily agree with that, I do think about how important it is to be willing to receive others in our lives. Also it is important to be open to those who are often alone, rejected, depressed, anxious, hungry, and seeking something to make sense of their lives. We can be like this neighbor who is unknown but like the good Samaritan or we can be like the inn keeper keeping people out. I certainly saw the work of God in this neighbor's act. I pray that I can do the same for someone else.

Advent study

Yesterday was the first of our Advent studies. We began by looking at this time as a time like preparing for a Christmas pageant. Last night was looking at the prophets and the backdrop for setting the stage. We looked at four different aspects of this background. They included preparation, promise, peace, and messenger. As we discussed what Advent was we focused on the season as we come to Christmas.

We discussed ways that we have to prepare ourselves for this season. In many ways and in many traditions, we found that when we spent time to reflect we were aware of the traditions that speak to the birth of our Savior. We also have some traditions that may not point to the coming of our Lord. As one member stated it was a time of life versus life. That is what is it that we choose to focus on this worldly life or the life that we find when we receive Jesus and the life he offers.

The question remains as to what are we preparing for, what promises do we trust, where do we find peace in our lives, and where do we look for God's messengers today? I believe it is important that we spend some of our time and effort to remember what God has done and what God is doing and what God will do. Let this Advent time be a time for all of us in preparing not only for the Holy day but also in the anticipation of God's promise fulfilled.

Wednesday Advent meditation

As I prepare for the Wednesday communion services, I have been reading and meditating on a variety of devotionals. There are two in particular that have struck me. One I picked up at St. Joseph Roman Catholic Church titled 5 minutes in the Word. I have found that to be very insightful in a variety of ways. I also picked an Advent devotional based on some of the writings of my favorite author Henri Nouwen. The devotional is titled Advent and Christmas. Each day of Advent has a scripture, a word of wisdom from the works of Henri Nouwen, a prayer and ends with something to add to each day for preparation for Christmas. I have taken some of the ideas that the writer puts, Judith Baeur, and want to share some of those insights. I would recommend the book printed by A Redemptorist Pastoral Publication which I picked up at Soul Desires in Omaha. Here is what I will be sharing for this week at the communion event. I will be expanding on some of these and this only takes some ideas from the book and others.

Advent Week one preparations

1. Each day look for one small sign that God is present in your daily life. Give thanks for His presence.
2. Prepare the way of the Lord by making proposed contributions of service or positive changes in your own spiritual life. Though don’t plan too precisely leave some room for God’s input.
3. Jesus went out to deserted places to pray. Look at times in your life that you have been active and times when you have had solitude. Note how you felt in both situations. This Advent make sure that there is a balance between the two.
4. Find a scriptural motto and hold the words close in your heart every day.

Thanksgiving eve eve

Tonight is the eve of eve of Thanksgiving. I am not sure about anyone else but it seems that as we approach the family holidays the days become more hectic and at times more chaotic. Not only planning for family gatherings but for me it is doing a homily for an ecumenical service tomorrow, planning for my sermon on Sunday which is the first Sunday of Advent, a baptism, and babysitting my three grand daughters. Seems to be a busy time. The weather also has not helped with cloudy misty days.

I am going to talk tomorrow on worry and anxiety from the scripture in Matthew 6:25-34. With all that is going on in the world and in our community with the economic issues, health issues, and war issues, it seems important to think about what it is that we worry so much about. Maybe we need to spend more time thanking God for what we have and sharing that then thinking about all the problems that exist. I know that as I work on the homily, I will be thinking about how much we spend our time and energy worrying about things that often we have no control over. Think about the serenity prayer. We need to address the problems that our society faces and at the same time we need to remember that we are called to lift up ourselves to our Savior. So in this Thanksgiving time spend a few moments not worrying about tomorrow but thanking God for the gift of life, the gift of grace, and the gift of mercy that He has bestowed on you and I.

Have a wondrous Thanksgiving and enjoy the company of those around you.
Eldon

Saturday afternoon

It has been quite a while since I have taken the time to write anything. As we approach the time of year that we remember Advent and Christmas, I thought that I would spend some time reflecting on this season. Already many people have put up their lights and decorations. Stores have put all their Christmas displays up and pre-black Friday sales are on-going.

It is easy for one to get so caught up in the hectic time that one forgets about spending time reflecting on what this season is all about. I know that I will be preaching this Sunday on Christ the King. This Sunday is the last Sunday of the Christian year. The year begins with Advent where we await not the birth but the return of Jesus. So often Advent becomes compressed to maybe one or two Sundays and then everyone wants to sing Christmas Carols and put out the manger scene. The second season of the year is Christmas and Epiphany. This is the time that we remember Jesus and spend time with Jesus as he grows in his ministry. Lent and Easter time are another season when we remember the sacrifice that Christ made for us. Pentecost and Kingdom time speak to the church. It all ends with the remembering that all seasons of the year and of our lives is found in Christ. Our submission to Christ makes it possible to enjoy and at times endure the seasons of our lives.

On our marquee at the church, the sign states, "We don't change the message, the message changes us." I believe it is so important in a world seeking constant change often for change sake that we remember that in Christ and in God there is a constant message to us that never changes. How we receive can change but not so much that change becomes the end. It can only be the means to the message that all things are possible and come from the Will of God.

For me, I need to keep myself in the word so that I stay connected in my relationship with God. The more that I do that the more I am able to enjoy the seasons of my life.

Tuesday musings

Ever wonder how much control we have over our lives. Ever feel that somehow things are getting away from you and you spend so much time trying to find just the right thing to do or the right program or book to read that will provide all the answers. I was able to have the awesome time last week preparing for two funerals of two wonderful women, one was 102 and the other 90. As I talked to the families about their memories of their mother, grandmother, great grandmother and even great-great grandmother, I got to thinking about all they had witnessed in their lives. The eldest from the turn of the century to the turn of the century. They had survived wars, the Great Depression, and the rise of technology.

The youngest of the two I had the fortune of knowing her. She never let her age, her physical condition ever hinder her in what she was willing to do. She even went para-sailing at the age of 75. She was able to live her life fully. She never seemed to spend time worrying about what she could not do but was always flowing with what she could do.

I know that when I am at the age, if I am so lucky, I want to have the same attitude as she did. I believe that you don't find that in a book, a program, or the latest self-help fad. I believe it comes from a foundation of faith and a willingness to let God be God. I sometimes feel the same about church. As we prepare ourselves for our church conference, I would like to have us remember that no matter what we attempt to do, our first priority should be seeking God's Will.

So let go and let God. Remember the serenity prayer and resolve to change the things you can, accept the things that you cannot change, and have the wisdom to know the difference.

Priority of Grace

Last Sunday the topic of the sermon was the priority of grace as demonstrated by the parable of the father and two sons. I reflected on the grace as love given that is undeserved, unfailing, and unending. It is a gift that is given without regard of receiving anything back. I talked about previenent grace that God is at work even when we are unaware. When we become aware of God's love, we realize what we have done to separate ourselves from that love and seek reconciliation. God then justifies us through grace. As we are justified, we want to continue to live our lives based on God's Will not ours and that is sanctifying grace.

We see grace in all its manifestations in the parable both with the younger son and the father.

Fatigue

Nancy and I just got back from not only taking our grandchildren to school but also had our first session with a personal trainer. Needless to say as I am typing this my arms feel like jello. It has been some time that I have worked out with weights with the intensity that we did today. What was the insight for me was the fact that I could start off with enthusiasm with heavier weights but after the second rep I could barely lift the weights at all. Muscle fatigue had set in and I could feel the exhaustion building in my arms. I had to go to lesser weights to compensate. Being the first time our trainer stated rather than quit go to the lesser weights but finish the reps.

I got thinking about this and how it applies in other areas of our lives. I have been reading John Wesley's journals and marveled at the fact that even when he had doubts about himself especially when people criticized his sermons, his efforts to reach out to those who were marginalized, and his uncompromising positions to not cater to those who wanted to control, he kept up and finished. Even though he may not have completed every thing that he envisioned.

In our lives we often start projects such as bible studies, prayer, worship attendance, etc. with great enthusiasm. But at some point fatigue sets in. What determines what character we are depends on how we respond to that fatigue. Do we give in to it? Do we use it for an excuse as to why we can't change? Do we say we are failures so why try? What character do you and I want to be known by. Maybe we need to lessen our weights but continue to move forward despite the uncomfortableness and fatigue.

What pressure are you under?

This came in my inbox and I wanted to share with you.




Serving Strong
A minute for you
because you serve others.


Serving Strong Issue No. 153
Artesian Strength

Artesian Well"Artesian" (pronounced, "arr-TEE-zhun") is an adjective to describe water which spurts out of the earth under natural pressure. Hmmm... two phrases jump out at me when I read this definition: "spurts out" and "natural pressure." Let's look briefly at each.

"Spurts Out"

When the pressure is on, what comes out of you? Are you a jovial dispenser of joyfultude? Or are you a boiling cauldron of barbs? It's true what they say in the computer world, "Garbage In, Garbage Out." When the heat is on, what's inside boils out. What are you feeding your spirit and mind? What is your current book? What is your next book? What do you watch on TV? What do you listen to on the radio?

"Natural Pressure"

Opposite of natural is Un-natural. Un-natural pressure is the pressure that arises out of a false pretense (for example, those with a martyr complex take on others' problems as though they were their own.) We subject ourselves to this pressure. It requires extra energy to maintain - energy we cannot afford to waste. What pressure are you assuming that isn't yours to assume? What attitudes or self-talk are you operating under to make you act this way?

BE ARTESIAN

* Fill your mind with nourishment. Get into God's Word. Listen to uplifting talk. For every negative input (which is a part of your vocation, let's be honest), counter it with the Truth that God will always come through.
* Assume just the amount of pressure God designed for you to handle. Stop telling yourself you are the answer to EVERYONE'S needs. Do just what He tells you to do. Where He calls He supplies.

Resolve to be an artesian well spurting out water of hope under natural pressure.

I'll "see" you right here next week.

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Amazing Grace

I have just played Mario Super Party with my grand children and needless to say they won hands down. It is so nice to be able to take time and be a child once again. Nancy and I spent time with the oldest by herself and tonight have all three girls. While shopping with the oldest at the bookstore, wouldn't you know it I came across a reflection (actually two reflections) by Henri Nowen on the Prodigal Son. I read some of it and wished that I had read it earlier as there are some ideas that he expressed that would have helped share the sermon I am doing tomorrow.

The one insight that I wanted to share was the idea that we are to not just identify with the two sons but also with the father. That is not only for us to be forgiven but also to forgive. To not only be welcomed home but be the one welcoming home. He stated that the church tends to want to remain the dependent child on the distant heavenly father and not try to emulate the father's love and grace. Somehow that may still make it in my sermon. I may hold onto it for another time as I read the books completely.

Cross roads

Have you ever been at a point where you felt like you were at a cross roads in life. I know that I have and I have to say it is a difficult place to be. Uncertain as to which path one wants to go and which path God wants you to go. I have found that in those times God has placed people in my life or situations in my life that have helped me discern His will. I just need to remember to take time and remember to look for those times in my life and to listen and be observant to what is around me. I need to let go of the things that tend to drag me down seeing them not as negative but opportunities. One of the lectionary texts for next Sunday is Psalm 124 which starts "If it had not been for the Lord who was on our side" and how true that is. The psalm ends with "Our help is in the name of the Lord who made heaven and earth."
If you are at a cross roads or know someone who is, take time to remember that God is at our side and is our help no matter where we are. As Paul says, "If God is for us who can stand against us."

Reflection for Wednesday

I was working on my reflection for tonight's communion service. Tonight also begins our confirmation class for 2009-2010. Also I had reflected on Proverbs 8 the last time that we met. With all that has gone on in my life, with the idea of priorities of faith, I was struck with what was the lectionary selection for last Sunday. It came from James 3:13-4:3, 7-8a. There were three questions that were proposed. The first was who is wise and understanding among you? The second is from what do conflicts and disputes arise? The last was what does God want?

I was struck by all that has been happening and the confluence of the above and here is God once again talking to me about what is important. Wise people are those who are gentle, humble, peaceable, willing to yield, full of mercy, without a trace of partiality or hypocrisy. They are not people who insist always on having their own way at the expense of others or ego-driven. Disputes seem to arise most from coveting something that someone else has (prestige, status, power, wealth, popularity, etc.). We become enamored by brand-name clothes, latest tech toys, greatest house, car being the best provider, show spouse. We use these to determine our self-worth and it is empty. So what does God want? I am quoting from a section of "Feasting on the Word" the pastoral perspective pg 88 by Kathy Dawson. She points out that a church that lives by God's wisdom might have the following:
"Church officers are chosen on the criteria of godly wisdom, rather than how much money or status they have in the community
Worship leadership is not just handled by the paid staff, but is shared among the church membership of all ages and stations
Disputes are handled with mercy and love, seeking peace above selfish ambition
Stewardship becomes not just a season of pledge collection, but a yearlong spiritual disciple taught and lived by the community
Prayer is not selfish, asking for what will feed individual desires, but seeks the good fruits that will meet the needs of all
Peacemaking and social-justice ministries become ways of addressing earthly wisdom that surrounds us
Our primary identity is measured by our closeness to God rather than the possessions we accumulate.
The way that this last expression of Christian identity is enacted at the church I attend comes in the words used at every baptism. As the minister performs the baptism, he or she tells the congregation that the world will give us many messages about who we are to be, but our primary calling is as children of God, and we are to remind each other of this wisdom (90)."

I would totally agree with her statements. Too often we spend more time pleasing the world rather than pleasing God.

serving strong

Thought I would share my Tuesday newsletter Serving E Strong.

Lemon Fresh Self Care

Lemon tree
One of my clients lives in Florida. He told me of a lemon tree his neighbor used to maintain. The branches extended over the property lines. The neighbor shared the fruit, allowing my client permission to pick lemons right off the tree and make some wonderful lemonade (you can't get much fresher than lemons right from the source!)
That's the good news. The bad news: lemons unpicked fall to the ground and rot. The rotted fruit attracted rats. Rats, as you would expect, create quite a problem for the inhabitants around the tree (which was ultimately cut down.)

PICK YOUR SELF-CARE

Lemons are like opportunities for self care. If ignored the opportunities expire and fall away to rot. Rotted, unused self care attracts despair, depression and disillusionment. We must take advantage of the opportunities God places in our path to rest, recreate and renew. This doesn't happen automatically. We must be intentional about our self care. Don't have time to enjoy some "lemonade"? Think again. This kind of fruit is essential to remaining and finishing strong.

* What opportunities has God given to "sharpen your saw"?
* Where do you go to rest, recreate, renew?
* Who has God placed in your journey to help you rest?
* What do you read to take care of yourself?
* What are your hobbies?

Some think that any talk of self care is a hedonistic avoidance of staying on task to work done. True, if taken too far, self care CAN become selfish. Just remember - everything in moderation. Also remember - we don't rest from our work. We work from our rest.

Priority of Love

Last Sunday I began to do a sermon series on Priorities and what Jesus would see what priorities we should be concerned about. I will be using some of the parables that Jesus used to teach those around him about what is important. Some of the ideas come from a book entitled, Jesus' Parables about Priorities by James W Moore. Where the book contains some of the seeds of the ideas, most of what I reflect on came from several experiences in the past few months. I had completed a sermon series on families and the issues that they face and out of that came the concern about setting goals, vision and priorities and standing by them. Recently I finished a series on the Bread of Life based on John chapter 6.

With those experiences and some good and bad experiences in my life, I realized how important it is to remain focused on what is important. I see that in those who weather difficult times they have a foundation that they turn to and depend on to see them through. It does not mean they never get discouraged, but somehow when they have their priorities straight they are more able to see the difficult times through. I know that is the case with myself. When I am distracted, stressed, not doing my spiritual disciplines, I find myself having difficulties dealing with the negative times.

The first priority is that of Love. The parable that James Moore used was the Prodigal Son Luke 15:11-32. Actually it is a story of 2 sons and a father which talks about three different types of love. The younger son originally is into the love of experience and immediacy. Everything revolves around his needs and wants. He does not concern himself with others. In psychological jargon, he is narcissistic. The older son is legalistic and has no room to forgive those who do not think or act like he does. His love is based on doing for others with the expectation that others will reward him. The father demonstrates a love that transcends selfish needs and does not demand that others be like him. His love is unconditional. We are called to model this third type of love.

musings

I am sitting at my desk after attending a Board of Ordained Ministry meeting at one of our camps. For a formal meeting we were able to accomplish alot. I was in charge of the closing communion and I shared my epiphany that I had while on vacation. I thought that I would share it with those who have not heard it.

I was able to spend a week at Ocean Isle Beach one of the barrier islands in North Carolina. My wife and my daughter's family were there. To say that it was a restful and wonderful time is an understatement. I thoroughly enjoyed the time and put some of the pictures on my facebook page.
One day in the late afternoon when the high tide was coming in, we were all on the beach. I had walked off shore and looked back at the others gathering their sea shells. The waves were coming in fairly strong for that beach. As I watched the waves break upon the shore and begin to spread out all along the beach I had my epiphany. I thought isn't that what the church should be doing. The relentless and ongoing waves breaking upon the shore of the world spreading the good news. Reaching out to the entire beach leaving no area left alone.
A further epiphany was that the wave was not done but after spreading out quickly and with some urgency returned to its source. So too the church needs to return to its source so that the next wave can come forward and spread out on the shores.
When I first told this, someone mentioned it is not only the wave that returns to the source but also the grains of sand that the wave touched that also returns. As the people who hear the good news turn to God. What also happens is that those grains of sand also come back to share with the rest of the beach.
This is the cycle of God. To go forth to make disciples and to return to our creator to be renewed to once again go forth and to be with others who also go forth.
We need to do both go forth and return.

wednesday

Thought I would share this.

Serving Strong eNews
A Tuesday morning minute just for you because you care for others.
A Wimpy Wiper
Wimpy Wiper
It happened again. It was raining. I was driving. I looked in my rearview mirror to my back window and there it was...again. That wimpy windshield wiper. It only wipes half of what it's supposed to. I can't see as well this way. When it's not raining, I don't think about it. Never crosses my mind. But when it rains and I look back and remember. "Oh yeah. I need to change that wiper."

When it's not raining, I don't think about it.

When it rains, I think about it.

I suppose this is a metaphor for how I am in life. When everything seems to be going good, I don't feel the pressure to stay balanced and healthy. I just drift. I take it easy. I let life just happen. But when I start to get tired, irritable, or overwhelmed then I start thinking about self care.

How many of you have ever gotten pneumonia and began wondering how you could have ever gotten sick in the first place, wondering, "have I been working too hard?"or "have I been eating right?" The sickness serves as a wake up call to the lack of habitual balance.

SMALL WEAVES
It's a challenge to remember to take care of the vessel when life is clicking along. Perhaps there are small threads we can weave into these times to ensure we are serving strong all the time. Here are a couple ideas to get your thinking started:

- Eat 1 piece of fruit each day.
- Stretch first thing in the morning.
- Take 5 minutes of rest for every 60 minutes of work.
- Drink 8 glasses of water each day.
- .....

Taking care of ourselves is best when we weave it into the fabric of our journey. Well, the sun is shining now. I think I'll go to AutoZone and pick up a new windshield wiper before the next rain.

I'll "see" you right here next week.

saturday

I wanted to let people know about a resource that I have a link to on my blog. The resource is dailyaudiobible.com. I have to admit that I have not looked at the site for some time but decided to do so today. Brian who runs the site was commenting on the fundamentals of Christian belief and that is prayer and meditating daily on scripture. I am attaching what he had to say as follows. This is a great resource for those who would like to continue to build their discipleship.

Twenty million times since January 1, 2006 the Daily Audio Bible has been downloaded. I'm sitting in the Prayer Room in Kansas City at the moment. I've been here a lot more than I'd planned but I hadn't planned much of any of what's happened over the last couple of years. "Open up their eyes to see You. Open up their ears to hear You," the band is playing on the stage. They are praying against the Spirit of the Age. Specifically that the sleep the world has been lulled into spiritually would be broken and reality would come crashing in. I agree with all of that and it's a prayer I would have wanted to pray no matter what but I sit here in full realization that this is precisely what the Daily Audio Bible is about and exactly what it is doing in the most profoundly simple of ways. We're just offering the spoken Word of God in it's most potent configuration to the world for whoever will listen and focusing our efforts on prayer and worship.

When I was in High School playing baseball our coach made us field grounders and catch pop-ups until we were sick. He said it was the fundamentals that would eventually make us win games and he was right. In fact it ended up being the difference in just about every single game. What is there in the Christian life that is more fundamental than daily interaction with the Bible, worship and prayer? Isn' it ironic that we so often find ourselves justifying why we don't have time to make room for these things in our lives and then wonder why we're not living the life we'd hoped for in Christ? Without the fundamentals down we're not going to win games but this is much more than a friendly competition between schools. Without the fundamentals down we're not going to win lives. We can sing and pray about Jesus opening the eyes and ears of those who need Him all we want and this is a very, very good thing but He's smiling back at us you know? He singing it right back over us. "You open their eyes and ears. You be My hands and feet. You reveal me." This is a partnership. To bring the Kingdom that we talk about so often we're simply going to have to do just that....bring it. Jesus came. He saved us. He modeled how life is supposed to look and He's empowered us to be everything He was.

I could wrap up a little blog like this with a sentence of two about how this is what we're actually doing here at the DAB with twenty million downloads to prove it and yet the only image I have in my mind is a bunch of kids on the ball diamond fielding grounders and catching pop-ups. There is so much to do but there is so much that has been done. We have reason to rejoice certainly. But we have reason to be ever so sober. Jesus is watching, waiting, coming. It's in our intimate partnership with Him that things get done.

The Daily Audio Bible is a worldwide community of believers getting the fundamentals down cold. This is a very good thing but we won't win games if we don't step into the arena and contend. We'll just be people who can play. That's not enough. I pray that by the time we reach another twenty million downloads we have stadiums full of rescued souls who have joined the family of God because we WON them to CHRIST.

The reason I wanted to include this is because we also are going to be offering an opportunity to deepen our growth as a disciple through Disciple Bible study becoming disciples through bible study. The major concern seems to be our willingess to commit our time to studying God's Word. There are so many pressures out there to distract us from God. This is an opportunity to give back to God not even a tithe of our time and the benefits are outstanding. I would welcome those who are interested to come attend these classes and strengthen your faith as a disciple.

just spent time with my youngest grand child. As you can see we were in a deep conversation about the soteriology of Jesus. Needless to say we were both excited about our salvation. ;)

wednesday

It has been a long time since I updated my blog and I apologize. I have been gone on vacation and since I have returned I seem to be caught up in meetings galore. I did want to share with you this article from Scott on Serving Strong.

Serving Strong eNews
A Tuesday morning minute just for you because you care for others.

Stop Stewing And Start Doing

This just in....

"It was an eerie sight for a motorist driving Interstate 526 in South Carolina - a helicopter in the distance spewing smoke as it plunged toward the Wando River. The Post and Courier of Charleston reported the motorist called 911 with the report Wednesday. Police and three Charleston Fire Department trucks and a fire battalion chief raced to the scene. One Charleston police officer drove calmly by after seeing the truth. It was a helicopter all right - a remote controlled toy helicopter about 2 feet long. Police spokesman Charles Francis said two people were below the interstate bridge operating the toy chopper when it went down."

True story. All that hubbub. All that ado. And for what? A TOY helicopter? Give me a break. Sounds ludicrous, doesn't it? Before you answer, allow me a question...

As you read this issue, what are you worrying about?

STOP STEWING AND START DOING

Studies indicate that over 85% of all that we worry about never happens. These include worries over which we have no control, irrational concerns or fears, and future worries.

And what about the remaining 15%? Doesn't matter. Worrying never helps the situation anyway. What does? ACTION:

1) List the things that worry you.
2) Determine which ones are worthy of your time.
3) Start taking action on them.

Seriously, worry distracts us from our mission to help people. And subscribers who read the Stressors a couple issues ago may notice a trend. The message is clear: Stop Stewing and Start Doing!

I'll "see" you right here next week.



I found that to be helpful this morning. I have also received concerns about a member of my church who received news about her cancer. I would like to have people pray for her. God knows who she is just lift up this person for God's comfort, peace, and healing.

Silver linings

I remember the saying that every cloud has a silver lining. While that is a nice thought sometimes one might wonder what the silver lining is during difficult times. I have wondered myself at times what God is trying to convey to me when I encounter issues either personal or at other times. It is easy to get caught up in the turmoil of the situation and become very reactive and defensive when something or someone does or says something. That is when I need the peace of Christ the most. I need to process, pray, talk to God and others about what is happening to help get some idea of where I am and what am I really reacting to. I need to recognize that there are some things that I can do something about and other times that I cannot do anything and need to release it to God. It is that serenity prayer thing.

What can be a silver lining in those times that I do not have control, may be what are my priorities. Worrying about everything that happens does not do anyone good. What Jesus says in Matthew 6 does worry add one day to one's life. Actually it takes away from living. So when things happen of which I cannot control is a reminder that I need to depend more on God and less on pleasing other people. I need to deal with my integrity with my Savior and not compromise to just keep the peace. I need to remember the vision that God has given me and to continue to act in such a way to make the vision a reality.

That indeed is the silver lining in the storm clouds of life. Reminders of who really is in control and to allow God in my life.

Tuesday morning

I am looking forward to spending time with my family this week and next. At the same time, I am trying to wrap up things here at the church. I am always amazed at how God can bless us in so many ways. Whether we call these blessings or miracles or even signs, God is there with us and for us. Even in the midst of our struggles and hurts and disappointments. I found the Spirit at work at a funeral that I did yesterday. I find the Spirit to be at work in my grand daughter. I find the Spirit to be at work in so many ways in my life if I would remember to focus on it. What happens to often for me is that I can get caught up in what I did not do or the negatives of my life. Sometimes I fret and worry about these so much I lose sight of the joy of the Spirit.

We often experience the highs and lows of life and feel that is normal. What we need to remember is that even in the roller coaster of our life God is with us. At our highest and at our lowest God is present. I continue to grow and to learn from times that I could have done better. What helps me to get in touch with the potential for growth is remembering to open my heart to God's Spirit.

Bread of life

Ah Mondays. I have survived another Sarpy County fair. Actually it was not survival but was a lot of fun. Unfortunately a former secretary that I had worked with and was my same age died last week. I was able to go administer communion and to pray over her prior to her transition to the next life. Fair week was also wonderful regarding weather and being unseasonably cool. We have a food booth and we collected the most that we have ever made at least in recent history. It will mean a boost to our ministries that we have and I thank God for those who volunteer their time and talent to making that happen.

For the past 21 years our church has been responsible for the Sunday service at the fair. I have decided to do a sermon series based on John 6 about the Bread of life. Sunday was the first of those sermons about, "What are you really hungry for?". As part of the service we had several volunteers make mini loaves of bread that people could take home with them following the service. We offer open communion to all present as that is part of the United Methodist tradition. We had an attendance of over 180 which is great for that service and we had over 250 loaves of bread. It reminds me how when Jesus asked Peter how should we feed the 5000, that we have to look beyond what we don't have and focus on what we do have. In the sharing and in allowing the Holy Spirit to work, we are able to deal in abundance not scarcity. What am I hungry for more of Christ in me. Dear reader what are you hungry for? Are you open to the Spirit to be the bread of life in your life today?

Another tuesday time

Just wanted to share the following:
ABOVE THE CLOUDS

Traveling isn't always glamorous.

I have traveled by plane. There are a lot of headaches associated with traveling this way: schedule delays, cramped seating, small bags of peanuts, and heavy luggage to name a few.

But I have also been given the gift of some of the most incredible cloud formations after rising above the clouds. In fact, it seems the most incredible clouds come from storms taking place below.

LIFE ISN'T GLAMOROUS

As you read this issue, stop for a moment.
Take a deep breath.
Take another deep breath.
Take one more.

What are you facing today? What challenges are you wrestling through? What walls are you trying to navigate around/through?

My prayer for you is for God to lift your sights above your "clouds" so you see something bigger going on than what's right in front of you. I've pray you come to realize in the midst of your storms God is doing some incredible work which you may not fully understand right now.

I pray Colossians 1.9-14 over you; that you would...

- Know God's Will
- Live a worthy, pleasing life
- Bear fruit
- Grow in Him
- Live in His strength
- Have endurance & patience
- Live in joyful gratitude
- Claim your secure inheritance
- Embrace freedom

I don't presume to have it all together nor have all the answers. Quite the contrary, I am just as messed up as you are. Consider me a "fellow beggar telling another beggar where to find food." God bless you all for helping other people in this life.

I'll "see" you right here next week.
This comes from my serving strong newsletter. seems to fit where I am today. I finished my series on families and probably will need to do a families part 2. Talked about communication, conflict and caring. I will add more tomorrow.

Leading Ideas

I received this from Leading Ideas. Thought I would share it.



July 22, 2009 Printable Version





Know Your Purpose
By Margaret J. Marcuson

When Rabbi Noah, Rabbi Mordecai’s son, assumed the succession after his father’s death, his disciples noticed that there were a number of ways in which he conducted himself differently than his father, and asked him about this. “I do just as my father did,” Rabbi Noah replied. “He did not imitate, and I do not imitate.” (Kurtz and Ketcham, The Spirituality of Imperfection, Bantam, 1993) Fundamentally, leadership is having a clear sense of who we are and where we are going, and relating to our followers out of ourselves. The best leaders are themselves in their role, rather than imitating other leaders or looking to their followers for their primary cues. They know who they are and what their purpose is.

Finding your purpose in ministry is not a to-do item you can complete and check off the list, but an ongoing process of discernment. Purpose involves more than one level of our life and work. It includes big questions such as: What am I on this planet for? Who am I, and what are my best gifts? And it also involves some shorter term questions: What is my purpose in my role in this ministry? Where am I headed right now, and what do I need to do to get there?

Now, what happens when we enter the pulpit or the board meeting, or even sit down at the family dinner table? Leadership requires managing the delicate balance between individuality (knowing our own clear purpose) and togetherness (managing our relationships with those we lead). This is true for all leaders, from the family house to the White House. And as we get clear, others will respond. An old saying goes, “If it’s foggy in the pulpit, it’s damned cloudy in the pews.”

When we look to others, whether they be other leaders or our own followers, as our primary guides, we are borrowing our purpose from them, rather than looking within or to God. We borrow our purpose from others when the denomination suggests a program or goal and we sign on for it because we are a loyalist. We borrow our purpose when we say to our followers, “Where do you want to go? I’ll lead you there.” Others will always be glad to tell us what our purpose is and who we ought to be, so that our purpose becomes serving other people’s agendas.

As we determine our purpose, we need to pursue it, but that does not mean we get everything we want. We don’t take our primary cue from others, but we do have to pay attention to feedback. If people know we are open to hearing what they have to say, and that we will adapt as necessary along the way, our message will get a better reception. The Reverend J. Edwin Bacon, Jr., rector of All Saints Episcopal Church in Pasadena, California, describes the leadership process this way: “It starts with being clear about where you end and somebody else begins. You get clear about what you believe, and express that in a differentiated and inviting way.” As important as it is to know our purpose, leadership only occurs when we actually speak about our purpose to others who can then choose to follow.

The Reverend James Lamkin, pastor of Northside Drive Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia, says that he often fools himself into thinking he has outgrown the Serenity Prayer, originally composed by Reinhold Niebuhr:

God grant me the serenity
to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.
Lamkin suggests, “The serenity prayer is about willfulness. To accept the things I cannot change means I can’t change history and I can’t change other people. Then, the courage to change the things I can change means me.” One of the gifts that his congregation has given him in twelve years is the realization that he cannot will the congregation into his goals, so his most important task is to focus on himself: his clarity, his own functioning as leader of the congregation.

Articulating our purpose to our followers must always go along with letting go of the outcome, and with an ongoing effort to build relationships. Finding our voice means that we say, steadily and over time, what our most important principles are and where we are going, inviting others to come along. Make a plan for what you want to say and when and how to say it. And remember these words from Luke’s gospel: “No one after lighting a lamp hides it under a jar, or puts it under a bed, but puts it on a lampstand, so that those who enter may see the light” (8:16).

Here are five questions to consider in thinking about your own leadership:

What energizes me?
Where do I need to clarify my own thinking?
Where do I need to define myself more clearly?
Where have I been pushing too hard? How could I step back?
How long am I willing to work on this project (whatever it is)?
Margaret J. Marcuson is an American Baptist minister who speaks and writes on leadership and works as a consultant and coach. This material is from her book Leaders Who Last: Sustaining Yourself and Your Ministry (Seabury Books, 2009) and used with permission of the publisher, Church Publishing Inc., New York.

Return to Leading Ideas




Copyright © 2009 by the Lewis Center for Church Leadership.
Leading Ideas is a free biweekly e-newsletter offered as a service to the church.
Click here for information about sharing Leading Ideas material and Requesting Reprint Permission.





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Family sermon series

I am amazed at how often I put off doing anything with my blog. Especially as I continue to do my series on families. I had planned to do a sermon synopsis after each sermon and then some additional insights. So I will do so today.

Two weeks ago, I had focused on the idea of a family vision statement. I used passages from Proverbs that spoke about the need to have some intentional ideas about vision and mission of one's family. For when we do not have a vision, we can lose our way. I compared that to going on a vacation. One could just jump into a car and go wherever without any planning or idea of direction. While there may be some value in doing that, it is also easy to get sidetracked and lost. A family that seems to be able to function more effectively begin with the end in mind of why they are a family. Much like when one wants to go to a particular place for vacation, one would use a map. Vision statements become our map.

Vision is based on the values and principles that we believe and want to instill in ourselves, the goals of the family and will help develop the character of the members of the family. Vision statements become a covenant with each member much like the covenant God has made with us. There are some questions that help focus a discussion not only for our families but also for our church family. What is this family about? Why would someone want to be a part of this family? What guides our decisions about family, work, money, recreation, church, etc.? One needs to take time to listen to one another. Ultimately it becomes what are we willing to be accountable to one another?

Once we have discussed the statement and arrive at something that everyone can agree on then write it down. Like any vision statement it is worthless if it is not something that everyone can remember and agree to do. Post it somewhere that everyone can see it. Our church's vision statement is posted on the wall where it can readily be seen when coming in the main doors and before one enters the sanctuary.

Last is use it. Words can be cheap unless they are put into action. It is important that one takes time to work it out and not just announce it. It is also important not to ignore it.

Last Sunday, continuing this theme we discussed priorities or putting first things first. In essence it is the process of taking the vision and values of the family and putting it into action. It is the process of recognizing that everything that we do we choose to do. It is not someone else who chooses. If we are concerned about what is happening to our children and the changes that we see in the world, we need to recognize that what is happening occurs through the choices the people make. If we are concerned about the shows on television for instance, we need to recognize that those shows only exist because we choose to watch them. If we are concerned about the lack of time we have with our family, we need to be accountable to how we use our time.

When we have a clarity about what is important for our family, are we living to those values? Too often there is a discrepancy between what we say and what we do. What are our priorities? What are the principles that we can live by that are enduring? I listed some as my relationship with God and Jesus Christ, my marriage, my family, my church, my work, etc. The challenge is the willingness to make choices that match what it is that you say you believe. If one wants to simplify one's life what are you willing to do? Are you willing to set boundaries that live true to your values, even if it means making difficult and maybe even being unpopular decisions?
Family is not something that one can cram for like a test at school.

Monday July 13

I wanted to post some pictures from our early service. We met in our fellowship hall which was quite relaxing and informal. We had special music by Devoted Sound of which some of the members have been part of our praise group. They were fantastic. Even some of the members who prefer more traditional service enjoyed themselves. Here are some of the pictures and also the graphic that I used to illustrate my sermon on developing a family vision statement. Will write more later on that.

Who is family

Last Sunday I began to do a series of reflections on family. Yesterday was on who is family based on Matthew 12:46-50. Next week will be on overwhelmed, over committed and underfed. July 19th will be on what are your priorities. And the last Sunday will be on conflict, communication and caring for others.

The key verse from the scripture yesterday was the lasts verse when Jesus says, "For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." I thought that it was appropriate that i start this series both on the Fourth of July weekend and communion Sunday. I believe that when we talk about family we need to remember that all of God's creation is family. I began the message by having one remember their last family gathering. Picture those who are around the kitchen table. Most of the faces would be familiar and would be related to those present by blood relation.

I contrasted that with what families would identify with in Jesus' time. One's identity would not be based on individual or nuclear family ties but on tribal ties. This would give a sense of identity for all members of the immediate family unit and extended family unit. That is why geneology was so important that one could trace back one's relationship to Abram and even to Adam.

The other point I made was that what we say about the ideal family is often an illusion and has nothing to do with reality. There is a new book that has been published called The Marriage Go-round. The authors point out that in the U.S. more people marry than anywhere else in the world. At the same time, we have the highest divorce rate in the world. Some of this may be based on the idea that we emphasize individualism more than we ever do community. So if my needs are not being met, I will leave the marriage. Also 60-70% of children born through their 18th birthday will spend some significant time in a single-parent family. More families are homeless or one pay check away from being homeless. Another interesting concept is that the fastest growing population is those who are 75 years and older.

I believe this reality affects what we are to do as a church. I believe we need to emphasize what Jesus said about the inclusivity of family being anyone who does the will of God. The church needs to offer an alternative to the individualism that is rampant in our society and offer communion with one another and especially with the stranger. Family activities need to look at ways that we can incorporate all differing families. Jesus invited all of us to his table that he set. Who do we invite?

Monday musings

I came across this article from one of the texts that I studied while in seminary. The class that I was taking was one of those greek terms Diaconia which incorporated the idea of church in society. The text was “Social Theory: The multicultural and classic readings, edited by Charles Lemert.” There are writings from some of the classic and modern sociologists. I was researching information about families. I found the following article interesting. I will not write the entire article but will write from the intro of the article. The title of the essay was “The Post-Work Monifesto” by Stanley Aronowitz, Dawn Esposito, William DiFazio, and Margaret Yard.

I did not include the date as I will do so later.
“The bottom is falling out and with it our sense of well-being. For two centuries, despite depressions and wars, America was the “golden door” behind which beckoned the call of the Good Life. Yet, today the United States is more accurately characterized as the home of downsizing jobs and lost security, of disappointed hopes and expectations. For many, recent economic and political developments point to the withering away of comfortable full-time jobs “with a future.” With jobless futures have also come deteriorating and lost benefits, from quality health care to assurances like social security that were once guaranteed—in only minimally in the United States—by the employment contract. If the current situation is allowed to continue on its present course, only the few will be able to enjoy life without the constant stress of economic worries…It is anxiety—certainly not the economy—which becomes democratized as the quest for secure paid labor consumes more of our time, uniting people in divergent job and class strata from blue-collar to middle and upper managements as perhaps not for centuries before. For no one is immune as these distinctions themselves commence to collapse, and are rendered increasingly meaningless by the immensity of socioeconomic transformations emblematic of our age.”

The authors go on to tell of some of the results of this turn around. Employers will be demanding employees to pay more for their benefits or do away with them entirely. Employees will be less willing to challenge decisions for fear of losing their jobs. This even affects people such as physicians who are working for HMO’s who dictate what treatment and what pay the physicians will receive. Even academics are affected as tenure is no longer a guarantee of employment. The only ones that seem less affected are “the multimillion dollar salaries and stock options of corporate executives which will remain in effect.”

I remember talking to someone about our current recession two years ago. I pointed out that our nation seemed to be heading to a recession. This person guaranteed me that we were not. It was shortly there after that the economy tanked. As I was reading this article and some written around the same time pointing to the future problems, it seems very prophetic. The article was written 1998 eleven years ago. This was pre-2001 and written at time that the economy had all the appearances of being robust. Little did people pay attention to what was happening. This has quite an effect on what is happening with families and the stresses that we face today.

Sometimes we need to pull back and reflect on our lives. The authors do point out that there is hope. We also know of a hope in Christ. What we need to do is remember to make our spiritual lives the priority and place our dependence on God.

Wednesday

Sometimes it is amazing in the ways that I can not use my time effectively. I must admit that I have been caught up in the college world series this year especially with Arizona State and Texas. Both teams seem to have this ability to never give up and to come back just when it seems that the game is over. What is interesting is that LSU is also a team that doesn't give up. What was interesting is that all three teams though they have their stars played more like a team. There were players who were not as well known during the regular season who have shone in the series.

As I have been working on Sunday and what I want to say about our annual conference, I want to believe that our church (not just Springfield but the church in general) can learn about what it takes to play until the last out. Paul talks about the need to complete the race so that we can claim the crown of righteousness. What I bring back from our conference is the message that we do have to re-think church. Also that it is not just one person's responsibility or even one committee's responsibility but that it is each of us who need to come to the plate and to perform by sharing our story with others. It is also up to each of us to welcome and invite those that we meet into a relationship with Jesus.

need to read my email

I tell you God works in mysterious ways. Just as I wrote about taking time to rest, I looked in my email and received the following E serving Strong about rest and work. I hope that there is something for you in what it says.

YOUR SWING

The rubber band. Used to be produced from the sap of the rubber tree, now made from synthetic rubber. It's a process of mixing petroleum byproducts in a reactor with soapsuds which produces milky liquid latex. This liquid coagulates into rubber chunk and sold to manufacturers who melt the rubber down into molds for various products - such as the rubber band.

Interesting thing about the rubber band is when stretched it produces heat (try it - stretch out a rubber band and press it against your lips.) Releasing it will produce an endothermic reaction, causing it to appear "cooler" (relax the band and press it to your lips and it seems cooler.)

YOUR SWING

Stretched, it becomes hot. Relaxed, it becomes cooler.
Stretch - relax - stretch - relax
Hot, cool, hot, cool.

Do you see the rhythm? Do you see the swing?

As people helpers, we are at our strongest when we can do 2 things well:

* GO FULL OUT. When you are doing that thing you do in your profession (preaching, counseling, giving care, responding to emergencies, assisting in surgery, etc.) give it your best. Give it your all. Be the best people helper you can possibly be.

* GO FULL IN. When you are off work, make rest a true priority. Throw yourself fully into recreation. Make a clear and distinct break from work. Enjoy your family. Get lost in your hobby. Invest in your rest. Do something TOTALLY NOT related to your work.

That's proper SWING. Go from give-to-take; from dance floor to balcony; from stretch-to-relax; from hot-to-cold. Try it. It's what strong people do.

I'll "see" you right here next week.

Another tuesday time

Sometimes I am amazed as to how fast time goes by. It seems that Annual Conference in Lincoln was just yesterday. There is something about going and being on the go 12-13 hours each day and then coming back to Springfield days trying to prepare for services for Sunday is plain exhausting.
but what a Sunday it was. We had special music by C.T. and Carmen Thongklin. They were so great that it brought tears to my eyes. I was preaching on the anointing of David as King. The focus was on the verse that states that the Lord does not see as man sees. For man judges by outward appearances but the Lord sees what is in the heart. The reflection was what would God see in our hearts?
So I am in the process of trying to catch up with my sleeping and getting back on track with my eating choices. Eating out does not do well especially with the lack of sleep for either my blood sugar and weight. I did try to walk at least 2 miles each day of conference.
Now I am preparing for this Sunday about David and Goliath. The focus is on the many Goliaths that we have in our lives. Also Wednesday will continue to reflect on verse 2 of the 23rd Psalm.
Also this week I will be spending time with both of my children and their spouses and all of my grand kids. Talk about a fun time but one where little rest will happen.

Forgive our debts

How often we say these words and yet many of us are mired in uncontrolled debt especially financial. Dave Ramsey with the Financial Peace University talks alot about the need of reducing and eliminating debt. Through the reduction of debt we can free our lives to better serve Christ in this world. Jesus warned about that one cannot serve two masters. Too often money becomes our master epecially when we have credit debts.
My E Serving strong had a message today about debts. Maybe it can help us with the concept Forgive our debts. We need to be able to do that so that we can free ourselves from the tyrant of credit cards.
Serving Strong eNews
A Tuesday morning minute just for you because you care for others.

Debt

Finances are a great concern to many people helpers today. This saps focus and energy. We are called to serve others; yet a large portion of our mental capacity is consumed by worry and fear. Debt is among the largest part of this problem.

FOCUSED INTENSITY

Dave Ramsey recently spoke at a college commencement. He was speaking of college debt when he said...

"Focused intensity is how you get out of debt. Just because it's a small interest rate and a small payment doesn't mean you don't need to hit it and get mad at it, and knock it out."

So how do we blaze a path toward debt-free living? How do we slay this focus-sapping monster and set loose our ability to serve others? Here are some ideas from Dave Ramsey you can start implementing TODAY:

1) Emergency Fund
__ Save $1,000 and put in a separate emergency fund account. Use ONLY for unforeseen emergencies

2) Snowball Technique
__ List all your debts from smallest to biggest
__ Begin paying off the smallest debts first
__ Once the 1st debt is paid off, take that payment and add it to the next debt
__ Continue until all debts are paid off

3) Buffer Fund
__ Figure the amount of monthly expenses it takes to run your household
__ Save three to six months times this amount (in case you lose your job, have a financial emergency or other large catastrophe)

4) Retirement, College, Mortgage
Then turn your attention to retirement investing, college funds for your kids, pay off your mortgage, etc.


I've talked with some of you who are living debt free today. Good for you! You already know the freedom this produces. Perhaps you can email me with tips you've learned from your journey. If I get enough responses, perhaps I'll post it on the Serving Strong Blog or the Serving Strong Facebook Group. Some of the best learning is what we learn from each other.

Monday

Talk about a busy weekend. I had an outdoor wedding Saturday and spent two nights in Nebraska City. With the Nebraska weather being what it is, there was a lot of concern about whether or not the rain would cooperate with us. It did though it was warm and humid. The wedding went well and my prayers are with David and Lyndsey.

Sunday was also iffy with the weather. I left Nebraska City at 4am and drove in rain and fog. First time that I ever experienced heavy fog during a rain storm. Made for some exciting driving. Certainly was awake throughout.

I preached on John 3:16. Summarizing God loves, God gives, We believe, We live. The focus is on what God has done for us and if we are willing to believe and accept God's gift then we can live now and eternally. I hope to have some new pictures of my grand daughter Makenzie and of the wedding. Tuesday I am off to Annual Conference. If I have time I will give an account of each day.

23rd Psalm

To celebrate the new Bible study on Invitation to the Psalms, I decided that I would reflect on the Psalms in the Wednesday services. I am starting with the 23rd Psalm one of the most well known psalm. I am going to take the Psalm verse by verse using various translations and paraphrases. I started with the Tanakh from the Jewish Study Bible.
"The Lord is my shepherd; I lack nothing." v. 1 TNK
Take time to reflect on these two ideas. The Lord is my shepherd. What does that mean to you. A shepherd is responsible for keeping those who one is in charge of safe and alive. The shepherd is the one responsible. If we believe that God is our shepherd are we willing to allow God to care for us. OR do we insist on taking charge of everything in our lives. I wonder in my life how often I say I want God to be in charge or at least central to my life, yet I will often try to do everything on my own without allowing God to be at least a partner.
The second idea and I believe ties directly with the first is that I lack nothing. In the Monday class on 30 days to live, we watched a video called Empty. The young man who did the video spoke of trying to find some way of filling a void that he felt in his life, an emptiness. He spoke of trying to do that with success, work, sex, drugs, etc. and found that even when it felt full it never lasted. It was not until he was willing to surrender to God that he was able to fill that void. The lesson included the idea that there are three things that separate us from a healthy relationship with God and those were bitterness, busyness, and burnout. I would add that if we are trying to fill our lives with anything else but God we will find ourselves feeling empty. We are not missing anything. God has given us everything we need. Not saying that having things aren't nice but they are not necessary. Do we truly believe that we lack nothing.
This first verse of the 23rd Psalm speaks to me about what is important in my life especially during difficult times. Remembering the God is my shepherd and that I lack nothing.

Tuesday musings

I have been working on my sermon and have it mostly researched. Now I need to write it and work on it. I keep having dreams about what I am supposed to say and what the Spirit is directing me to focus on. There are some things that I am excited about coming up. The first is the new bible study on the Psalms. I believe that it will be a great way to slow down my life and spend time reflecting on praying the Psalms. The other is working slowly and surely on the upcoming sermon series on family and the Bread of Life. I have the outlines done for both series and between keeping up with day to day events will be developing those themes.

As I am doing this, I also am looking at ways that we can continue to improve on our worship experiences. There have been some feedback which I greatly appreciate. Some will be incorporated and all will be appreciated. I believe that the Spirit is at work in the church. I need to be open to where it is leading me and us.

As we continue to work on these issues it is important that we continue to work on ways of being clearer about our communication. I especially need to make sure that I am clear so that it will prevent problems. My prayer is that we will continue to do so as a church as well. Part of helping with that is trying to celebrate more of what we have been doing. Not for our glory but for the glory of God. For what we do we do not do for ourselves but for the Kingdom.

What a week

I am the proud grandpa of my fifth grand child. My son and daughter-in-law gave birth to their third daughter Makenzie Grace on Wednesday of last week. Nancy and I have been busy with the other two grand daughters taking care of them and helping out where we could. Mom and daughter are doing fine.

This Sunday was also Pentecost Sunday. I had been contemplating what we can do to revamp our services. I wanted to work with the Praise Band to make the contemporary service more free flowing. Sunday was the first of those services. As with anything, there were some issues that need to be fine tuned but overall I believe the service went well. We will be working on this service throughout the summer. What we will likely do is continue this format from now on. For those who attended, feel free to give feedback as to ways that we might continue to develop this service.

I reflected on the "nevertheless" God. It was Peter Storey not Paul Storely who wrote about his time as the bishop of the United Methodist Church in South Africa. I was struck about what he had to say about the presence of the Holy Spirit in times that seem to defy whether or not God is present. Sometimes we want to have the manifest physical presence of the Spirit like what we read in Acts. What is hard is when difficult times are with us, to see what God is doing. The message to me is that even in hope unseen "nevertheless" God is there. We need to remain open to allowing the Spirit to become part of us and to continue to feed the Spirit through prayer, scripture, worship and sacraments, and with covenant groups.

It has been quite awhile since I blogged. There seems to be a lot going on in my life, ministry, and in the church both local and at the state level. I am still waiting to see if I will be a grandpa for the 5th time. Hopefully by tomorrow. Tonight will be with the other two grand daughters.

Pentecost is next Sunday. I have been thinking and reflecting on some of the ways that we are worshipping at our church and with consultation have decided to take a look at changing some of the structure of the services. Currently we offer three services. Two on Sunday, the first is more contemporary and the second is traditional which means more liturgical. We also offer a Wednesday communion service so that we have communion every week that I am around. One way I have been contemplating changing the sermon is to plan at least one month and actually I have three months of sermon ideas and questions to reflect on. What I hope will happen is that people will read the scripture for that day and reflect and answer the questions that I have included. Then when they come to the service, we can reflect together what they have learned and what I may offer. I feel that this Sunday is the time we can look at this as the disciples found themselves thinking beyond what was and moving forward to what God wants. So here are the scriptures for June and the questions to reflect on:
Over the next month the following are the scriptures that will be the focus of the service. I am asking that you read them and reflect on some of the questions that are proposed so that you may be prepared for the service.

June 7th: John 3:1-17
“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believed in him may not perish but may have eternal life.”
When you read this verse what strikes you the most? Do you feel loved by God? John 3:17-18 continues about judgment. Do you feel assured of your salvation? Hoe do you see hope in these times? What does it mean to you to be born with new life?

June 14th: 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13
“for the Lord does not see as mortals see, they look on the outward appearances, but the Lord looks on the heart. (16:7b)”
This is the story of the choosing David as the new king of Israel. How does this story speak to your understanding of leadership today? How do you make judgments of others? Samuel was afraid to go to Bethlehem but he went anyway. Are there times in your life you felt the call of God but were afraid to act on it?

June 21st: 1 Samuel 17:1a, 4-11, 19-23, 32-49
This is the story of David and Goliath. In your life have there been situations that seem gigantic and overwhelming? What were some of the ways that you tried to handle those times? Did you feel that you were able to strategize your way around the situations? What learning’s have you kept to face such times again?

June 28th: Wisdom of Solomon 1:13-15; 2:23-24 often found in the apocrypha.
13-15 “because God did not make death and he does not delight in the death of the living. For he created all things so that they might exist; the generative forces of the world are wholesome, and there is not destructive poison in them, for the dominion of Hades is not on earth. For righteousness is immortal.
23-24: for God created us for incorruption, and made us in the image of his own eternity, but through the devil’s envy death entered the world, and those who belong to his company experience it.”
To better understand these verses, read Wisdom of Solomon 1:1-2:24 in its entirety. There are those that say that the 10th commandment about coveting your neighbor’s wife and possessions covers almost the entire 10 commandments. Envy is often seen as one of the seven deadly sins. The author is also portraying two views of existence. What do you believe about our life? Is it accidental; short and there is nothing else? Should we just live it up to escape the despair? What outcomes might you imagine with such narcissist view? Or do you believe we are created for a purpose not by chance and that death is not the final answer? Is creation truly wholesome and that injustice foreign to creation?

I hope to summarize after each service what was talked about. This could also be something that could be used for small group discussions and even in families. I will be doing a sermon series on families starting in July. Stay tuned.

I have been absent from writing for the past week. I have been concerned about my daughter-in-law's health. Also it has been a busy time planning for worship, workshops for this weekend and for Monday. It seems that I have forgotten to take time to center myself. So tonight prior to the workshop I am spending time reflecting and praying and writing.
Part of the workshop will be dealing with Christian small group leaders. It is ironic that part of the workshop deals with living one's spiritual discipline and being held accountable to doing so. I know that I need to take the time and not allow excuses or other activities to interfere with this time. So no TV and I will be signing off on this rambling.
I hope to spend time tomorrow reflecting on my continued thoughts on families and relationships.

Just a short note. Tomorrow I will begin to focus on Sunday and my sermon. I have been so caught up in this sermon series that is forming in my thoughts and dreams dealing with families and ways that we can build relationships and strengthen our spiritual lives as well. I have posted on facebook about getting some info about the challenges that families face today. I have already received some excellent thoughts. I will be asking church members this Sunday and next to do the same.

For those who read this, if you want to post a comment I would look forward to your input. I will also be posting the sermon notes after the sermon is completed here with a tie-in on facebook. We may be looking at some future time doing a podcast but right now lack the equipment and experts to do so. Stay tuned. We may post to our conference web site.

I believe that this can be an important time for us to reflect on the importance of families. And what better time to begin to bring this up than on Mother's Day this Sunday.

I hope that this day and this weekend is a special one especially for all women who have been important in our lives. take a moment to remember them and not just one day but appreciate them everyday.

Families

I am on vacation but have been contemplating several ideas that have been striking to me. I have been thinking about a sermon series that I am proposing to do about straightening families. The sermon series will focus on the challenges that families face and how can we respond as family members and as members of the church. I will be asking for input as to what the greatest challenges you feel we face today as a family whether your own or what you see in our world. As I research this, I have come across some interesting quotes from some unusual places. There is one I want to share from you from Michael Medved, author of Right Turns and radio talk show host.

"Americans spend an average of 29 hours a week watching television- which means in a typical life span we devote 13 uninterrupted years to our TV sets! The biggest problem with mass media isn't low quality-it's high quantity. Cutting down just an hour a day would provide extra years of life--for music and family, exercise and reading, conversation and coffee."

What was interesting about where I read this quote was on a Starbucks coffee. Low quality versus high quantity. We talk about the lack of time we have to enjoy our family and to spend time with our children. What struck me was what would our children be if the first 13 years of life were 24/7 in front of a television. Can you imagine what they would learn about the world that we live in and would it be really the world we live in. I also think about what would it be like if we would just cut out one hour a week of TV. Would the world end, would the economy falter because of the lack of exposure to advertisements for things that we don't need?
Give me your input and let us reflect on ways that we can strengthen our relationships with each other.

I am about to go on vacation so that I will not be writing here for the next 10 days. I just got back from a training workshop that we require all pastors to go through that deals with clergy ethics. One of the aspects of that workshop that came up over and over is that when clergy get into problems more than likely they have not been doing well in self-care. One of the reasons I am leaving for this time.

It was interesting the the Tuesday Serving E strong dealt with ways of releasing stress. Here is the article.
Serving Strong eNews
A Tuesday morning minute just for you because you care for others.

Relieficus Valvum

Imagine being under extreme pressure. Your work is demanding more of you than ever before. Your caseload is piling up. Email is overwhelming. The needs of people seem endless (like a bottomless bowl of spaghetti). The burdens seem deeper and darker.

What's that you say? You don't have to imagine it? It's what you're living right now?

Relieficus Valvum

In moments like these we need what I call "Relieficus Valvum" -- the intentional integration of Relief Valves into the fabric of life.

What is a Relief Valve?

A Relief Valve is anything that takes you completely away from your profession for a period of time. I mean COMPLETELY AWAY. It's a block of time when there is no mention of others' burdens or needs. Relief Valves come in a variety of shapes and types. Some people do crossword puzzles. Others kayak on a lake. For some, running or playing basketball serves as relief.

"But" you ask, "Isn't that selfish? I should be available to my span of care at all times, right?" Are you kidding? Of course not! How in the world can you give 100% to your profession if all you do is expend your energy without refueling? Stephen Covey coined the phrase "sharpening your saw." If you don't stop to sharpen, you end up trying to cut down your proverbial trees with a dull blade - unnecessary hard work leading to burnout. Sometimes sharpening your saw means stepping away for a moment or a season.

How do I incorporate my own Relief Valves?

First, identify your unique Valves. To discover them, reflect on what you truly enjoy doing just for the sake of doing it. This can be a hobby, exercise, or whatever gives you pleasure AWAY FROM YOUR PROFESSION.

Second, schedule your Valve events. Calendar some appointments with yourself to pursue these Valves on occasion. Make it part of your daily, weekly, or monthly routine.

Those who serve strong in the people helping professions build in Relieficus Valvum. Are you serving strong?

I'll "see" you right here next week.

I know that vacations are one way. I also believe that everyone has to find some way they have to release their stresses. And maybe it does take actually writing it in one's calendar. Another way is Sabbath. So take some time for yourself and for those who are special to you today.

Today is Earth day. Over the years this was celebrated as Arbor day which originated in Nebraska City. I remember that when I was an employee of the great state of Nebraska, this was one holiday that I got off. I have to admit that I did not do anything "earthy" and usually spent the day probably increasing my carbon footprint. How times have changed. Just 30 years ago, there were the beginnings of concern about environmental issues. Carlson's "Silent Spring" came out on the dangers of DDT. There were concerns of the effects of Agent Orange not only on the jungles of Viet Nam but also on our military. Smog alerts were common in California and spreading to cities such as Phoenix and Denver. Water pollution was also making headlines and the concept of Acid Rain.

Over the years we have been negligent about the way we treat Mother Earth. We often spend little time or effort to seriously consider what we are doing to the planet and all life on it. It is only in the past 10 years with the concerns of global warming that many are beginning to take seriously the pollution that we are causing. And even with more and more scientific evidence, we still live in denial of the harm we are causing. If there is a sliver lining in the recession we are experiencing is that the amount of CO2 emissions has decreased.

God has set us to be stewards of creation according to Genesis. We are not to misuse what God has provided us. As we think about living as a disciple of Jesus Christ, let us not forget that we are also called to be faithful stewards of creation.

I am always amazed in how God works in our lives. We are starting the One Month to Live challenge at our church. If you have not had the opportunity to read the One Month to Live: 30 Days to change your life I would highly recommend it. I had done a sermon series on our Wednesday services. As a result many of the people who attended began to read the book and found it helpful in their faith journey. In fact it is from that we are now doing the challenge study.

As I was looking at this, I received my Serving Strong email which I will copy here. It deals with what legacy are we leaving. It fits exactly with what we talked about in One Month to Live.
Serving Strong eNews
A Tuesday morning minute just for you because you care for others.
Six Feet

I've been reading a book by Leonard Sweet entitled 11: Indispensible Relationships You Can't Be Without. A phrase from that book has jumped off the pages and into my life:

"Live as if today was your last day."

When I'm coaching a client, one of the first things we do is make an assessment of the current state of things. We end up with a big picture perspective before the client's plan takes shape.

Six Foot Assessment

There is a different assessment. It requires a journey forward in time and then looking back. I call it a "Six Foot Assessment". When our bodies are 6 feet under the earth, time has run out. So, while traveling above the ground here are a few questions to ask:

- What will be my legacy?
- How will I be remembered?
- What will I have accomplished?
- For what will I be known?

Live as if today was your last. Make your own "Six Foot Assessment". Then align your decisions and choices accordingly. Remember, burning out prematurely is not an option. If you take this exercise seriously, it will have an impact on the depth and duration of your service.

I'll "see" you right here next week.

The questions are pertinent to our lives. Today reflect on what is your legacy, how will you be remembered, what will you accomplish and what will you be known for. Today is the day to take this and move with it. None of us know how long we have. Rather than put off today something you have been thinking about, what prevents from doing it now.

A new post for today with scripture coming from Psalm 136. Again this is from the message:
Psalm 136

1-3 Thank God! He deserves your thanks. His love never quits.
Thank the God of all gods,
His love never quits.
Thank the Lord of all lords.
His love never quits.

4-22 Thank the miracle-working God,
His love never quits.
The God whose skill formed the cosmos,
His love never quits.
The God who laid out earth on ocean foundations,
His love never quits.
The God who filled the skies with light,
His love never quits.
The sun to watch over the day,
His love never quits.
Moon and stars as guardians of the night,
His love never quits.
The God who struck down the Egyptian firstborn,
His love never quits.
And rescued Israel from Egypt's oppression,
His love never quits.
Took Israel in hand with his powerful hand,
His love never quits.
Split the Red Sea right in half,
His love never quits.
Led Israel right through the middle,
His love never quits.
Dumped Pharaoh and his army in the sea,
His love never quits.
The God who marched his people through the desert,
His love never quits.
Smashed huge kingdoms right and left,
His love never quits.
Struck down the famous kings,
His love never quits.
Struck Sihon the Amorite king,
His love never quits.
Struck Og the Bashanite king,
His love never quits.
Then distributed their land as booty,
His love never quits.
Handed the land over to Israel.
His love never quits.

23-26 God remembered us when we were down,
His love never quits.
Rescued us from the trampling boot,
His love never quits.
Takes care of everyone in time of need.
His love never quits.
Thank God, who did it all!
His love never quits!

We had a men's meeting today and read from a devotional that is given to service men and women as well as first responders. The reflection was that not to quit to early but to stay for the entire distance. The hope is that we do not give up too soon. What I find hopeful for me during this Eastertide is that God's love never quits or in other translations, His Love endures forever. Much like the contemporary song, my hope is that indeed His Love endures forever.

I spent the day starting at 5 am taking my grand children to school, going to my Weight Watchers meeting (finding out that despite some great food over Easter I did not gain any weight nor did I lose), and spent part of the day at Henry Dorley Zoo. Nancy and I needed to just get away for awhile.

I have been thinking about what this time of Eastertide means at least for me. This is the time to reflect on our life as a disciple and what it means to each of us as we attempt to be faithful. Life presents all kinds of challenges. How we choose to face them says a lot about who we are and what we trust. I know as Joshua said, "As far as me and my family, I choose the Lord." Remembering what he said helps me during times of doubt and uncertainity.

I wanted to write today as we continue to celebrate Easter. This is the scripture lesson we find in Taking Faith Home insert. This comes from The Message.

12-15Now, let me ask you something profound yet troubling. If you became believers because you trusted the proclamation that Christ is alive, risen from the dead, how can you let people say that there is no such thing as a resurrection? If there's no resurrection, there's no living Christ. And face it—if there's no resurrection for Christ, everything we've told you is smoke and mirrors, and everything you've staked your life on is smoke and mirrors. Not only that, but we would be guilty of telling a string of barefaced lies about God, all these affidavits we passed on to you verifying that God raised up Christ—sheer fabrications, if there's no resurrection.

16-20If corpses can't be raised, then Christ wasn't, because he was indeed dead. And if Christ weren't raised, then all you're doing is wandering about in the dark, as lost as ever. It's even worse for those who died hoping in Christ and resurrection, because they're already in their graves. If all we get out of Christ is a little inspiration for a few short years, we're a pretty sorry lot. But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries.

21-28There is a nice symmetry in this: Death initially came by a man, and resurrection from death came by a man. Everybody dies in Adam; everybody comes alive in Christ. But we have to wait our turn: Christ is first, then those with him at his Coming, the grand consummation when, after crushing the opposition, he hands over his kingdom to God the Father. He won't let up until the last enemy is down—and the very last enemy is death! As the psalmist said, "He laid them low, one and all; he walked all over them." When Scripture says that "he walked all over them," it's obvious that he couldn't at the same time be walked on. When everything and everyone is finally under God's rule, the Son will step down, taking his place with everyone else, showing that God's rule is absolutely comprehensive—a perfect ending!

We need to remember that we are Easter people and that we are saved through Christ.

Easter has come and gone or has it? Last week was busy at our church. We had services Thursday, Friday, and three on Sunday. Attendance was somewhat sporadic but the services I felt went well. We had an Easter cantata at our traditional service that everyone I talked to greatly appreciated. Our contemporary service was several small reflections and using more contemporary music to supplement. That also seemed to be well received.

Now we are going to reflect on living the resurrection life. I will be preaching about that Easter is not just one day but everyday in our life. This week I will be preaching from the Fourth chapter of Acts verses 32-35. I will also be using some insights from the Psalm 133. As I was starting to write out my notes I came across this poem by Wendell Berry found in "The Selected Poems of Wendell Berry", New York: Counterpoint Press, 1995, 85.

"So, friends, every day do something
that won't compute. Love the Lord.
Love the world. Work for nothing.
Take all that you have and be poor.
Love someone who does not deserve it.
Denounce the government and embrace
the flag. Hope to live in that free
republic for which it stands.
Give your approval to all you cannot
understand. Praise ignorance, for what man
has not encountered he has not destroyed.
Ask the question that have no answers...
Practice resurrection."

I was moved by this poem for too often we spend time trying desperately to figure it out. Sometimes we just need to know that there is a mystery and allow that to guide us in our life. Then we can learn that we do not know everything and will never know everything until we are re-united with our Creator. Letting go of our arrogance may be the first step in building community of people with shared values such as we see in the story in Acts.

I was reading the devotion from Disciplines today and it was interesting for it talked about some of the same things that I wrote for our monthly newsletter, The Journey. The author talked about the ambivalence that Jesus must have felt as he entered into Jerusalem. The scripture was Isaiah 42:1-9. At the end of this I will copy what I wrote from the pastor's desk.

What I wanted to share tonight was from Isaiah that states that the servant will be a light to the nations. Whether we see this servant as Israel or see the servant as Jesus, what God is intending is not just for a small group of people but for all people. In my Wesley Study Bible, there was a life application about this and I want to quote it. "I have taken you by the hand and kept you; I have given you as a covenant to the people, a light to the nations (Isa 42:6b). Jesus is the light of the world--he came to chase away the darkness of brokenness, sin and death. He calls us to be the light of the world (Matt 5:14). God's grace has been released for the whole world in the person and work of Jesus, and God calls us to be partners in spreading the light of the good news to the whole world. Are you reflecting the light and grace of God in your life?" p864.

The question during Lent is how am I remaining faithful to Jesus and his commands. Even in the difficult times that we face and sometimes the conflicts that we endure and even the ambivalence we may feel, God is with us and the Sonshine will never be overtaken by the darkness. Here is my message that I wrote for the newsletter:

From the Pastor’s Desk April

As I am writing, I am reminded of the weather that occurs in Nebraska. March 23^rd there were several tornados and hail all around us. The coming weekend there is predicted snowy mixture. This followed a weekend of sunshine and temperatures in the 70’s. This can only occur in Nebraska.

As I reflect on this changing and often unpredictable weather, I realize that life can also be unpredictable. What one could depend on has a way of changing and the sunshine of today can give way to violent storms of life. Where the hope is that the storms of life also give way to the Sonshine. During Lent we have been focusing on spiritual disciplines and how important they are so that we can not only weather our personal storms but also continue to build the faith. No matter those problems that we face, when we have a committed relationship with God, we can overcome. No matter the people who disappoint us we can forgive and extend an invitation to healing. Especially to those who have hurt us, individual and as a body of Christ.

Lent is that time to remember what Jesus has done for our lives. With the events that have occurred in the last week, we remember that we are a body called to repentance and to forgiveness. I would be remiss not to thank those who have come forward in support of the unfortunate incident that has occurred. I am so thankful for the community in which I live and which we live who respond in times of need. Thanks be to God. See the newsletter for the many people named and unnamed who have supported us during trying times.

April is also the time of Easter. During holy week, we will be doing some special services as well as an Easter Vigil. See the times in the newsletter. Easter is the celebration that the Son will shine no matter the darkness that surrounds us. The light helps us not stumble and fall. Let this Easter be a time of building our spiritual body through healing, forgiving, and growing. As the flowers bloom and the grass greens, may we also let go of that which hinders our relationship with God and with each other so that we can bloom in the light of Christ.

Pastor Eldon