Thursday, December 15, 2011

reflections on Christmas

I came across this as I was working on my sermon for Christmas Eve.  Thought I would share it with you.

From beliefnet.com comes this story about answered prayer:
It was the day after Christmas at a church in San Francisco. Pastor Mike was looking at the nativity scene outside when he noticed the baby Jesus was missing from the figures.
Immediately, Pastor Mike turned toward the church to call the police. But as he was about to do so, he saw little Jimmy with a red wagon, and in the wagon was the figure of the little infant, Jesus.
Pastor Mike walked up to Jimmy and said, “Well, Jimmy, where did you get the little infant?”
Jimmy replied, “I got him from the church.”
“And why did you take him?”
With a sheepish smile, Jimmy said, “Well, about a week before Christmas I prayed to the little Lord Jesus. I told him if he would bring me a red wagon for Christmas, I would give him a ride around the block in it.”

Wednesday, November 30, 2011

Christmas season

I thought I would share what I wrote for our newsletter.  So if you are reading this twice, as a professor once told me, it could be important. Not sure if this is but enjoy anyway.

From the Pastor’s Desk-December

Christmas cards sent-a work in progress. Decorations up-another work in progress. Gifts bought-check. Christmas treats baked-getting there. Dinners planned-when? Services planned-check. Sermon outlines done-check. Holiday cheers-every day.

Does the above sound similar to what you are experiencing this Advent and Christmas season. The pressure to get things done and gifts wrapped and cookies baked. Yes indeed, tis the season of joy and peace on earth. At church we are doing a sermon series that focuses on four aspects for Advent as we come to the celebration of our savior’s birth. The four aspects are expectations, acceptance, family, and finally ourselves and to think outside the box to seek the gift that cannot be contained or gift wrapped this year. We sometimes become so caught up in the other activities of the season we forget the purpose of the season.

From the hectic scheduling of parties, family gatherings, and shopping, we have been focusing on slowing down and taking time to look at the expectations that we carry into the season. Combined with the sermons, we are also studying “The Journey” by Adam Hamilton that focuses on the journeys that took place in scripture with Mary and Joseph. Can you imagine what it might have been like for Mary, Joseph, and the birth of Jesus? We read the stories so often that we may miss the point of the choices that they made and the hardships that they faced. This is the true story of Christmas. A young couple, traveling during her last month of pregnancy, walks 80 miles from Nazareth to Bethlehem. And when they arrive they have no place to deliver the baby in a warm, clean, and safe place. Rather they deliver the baby in a barn life environment. Where are the Christmas lights, the feasts, rather the birth is rather stark. Mike Slaughter in his book, “Christmas is Not Your Birthday,” reminds us that these situations continue to exist throughout the world today.

This year when we gather together remembering the birth of our savior, take a moment with your family, tell the story from Luke chapter 2, and offer thanksgiving that God would so love you and I that He would send His Son to be a light unto this world, to show that way, to die for our sins, and to rise up for our redemption. What a gift we have received that cannot be contained in a box.

Thursday, November 10, 2011

advent sermon series

I will be doing the following as an Advent sermon series.  Here is the trailer. 

Wednesday, November 2, 2011

November thoughts

It seems that it has been forever since I sat down to write on my blog.  To catch up I did complete the gospel of Matthew and we have one more week in our bible study of the gospel.  Every time I study scripture something strikes me that I had not reflected on in the past.  This time was when Jesus was tried by the Sanhedrin there were two disciples who witnessed the abuse, Peter who denied him and Judas who betrayed him.  What struck me as interesting about this, was the times in my life I was a Peter and even a Judas.  The difference between the two was that Peter asked for forgiveness and Judas did not.  The question would be have there been times in your life you have either been Peter or maybe even Judas?  Have you asked for forgiveness?  Know that God will forgive you and wipe the slate clean because of what Jesus has done for you and me.

This month I will be focusing on the Lord’s Prayer.  I have often felt that just because we say this weekly does not mean we truly are aware of what we are saying.  In fact sometimes, I feel that if I say something that I have memorized it can become so rote that it is only words.  During the month we will focus on three parts of the prayer.  The first is to whom are we praying.  In the gospel of Matthew, the entire prayer is first person plural.  Our Father who art in heaven.  Not just mine but everyone’s. 

The next week we will be focusing on the three divine petitions, hallowed be thine name, thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.  All prayers should first focus on seeking God’s Will not ours.

The last week will focus on the three human petitions, give us this day our daily bread, forgive our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors, and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from the evil one.  Note again the plural which states all of us.

It should be an interesting series and would encourage others to be present or to listen on our website ainsworthjohnstownumc.org.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Matthew 10

Jesus ended Chapter 9 of Matthew asking the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers into his harvest.  The start of Chapter 10 Jesus summons his 12 disciples to give authority to do what Jesus has done.  This mini commission is to the sheep of Israel and not to those in Samaria or other Gentiles.  He sends them out without gold or silver but with just what they have.  He warns them that doing kingdom work is dangerous and that they will likely be persecuted for what they do.

One of the reflections that I have about this commission is that when we today choose to do the work of the kingdom, we too will likely encounter persecution and resistance.  As we will hear, doing this work is challenging to the status quo of not just the world but in some cases even to the church itself.  Jesus reminds us that we need to remember that we should not be afraid of what others can say or do to ourselves but to be concerned about what can damage our souls. 

In our bible study we discussed what Jesus says about not staying with those who do not welcome you or listen to you.  The discussion centered around are there times when it is better to let go of something rather than spend the resources to try to make something happen when there is no willingness to make changes.  This can also apply to the refusal to look at the present situations and only dwell in the past.  At what point do we let it go.  We discussed times when it seemed that there was no possibility of change and vitality and yet God was able to bring about a new thing.  Likewise there are times that whatever one tries to do the resistance is so great that nothing happens.

Jesus reminded the disciples that he was not hear to bring peace but a radical new way of living that is according to what God has willed since creation.  The way of discipleship is to be welcoming to those who come in Jesus' name or anyone who is righteous, "and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple--truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward (10:42)."



Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Matthew 9

It is interesting that our bible study group is studying Matthew 8-12 this week.  This chapter in the study book talks about insiders and outsiders.  The contrast as to who are the righteous and worthy of our work and attention and who are not.  Jesus begins to push the boundaries of who is in and who is not.  The first included all those who suffer illnesses that make them unclean such as the leper and in this chapter the woman who suffered from bleeding for 12 years.  He also makes arrangements with Romans and again in this chapter a tax collector.  Today so much effort is made by many churches as to who is included in the fellowship and who is not, that we need to reflect on who Jesus has come to save.

The first part of the chapter begins with a man who is paralyzed.  He begins by saying that he should be encouraged for his sins are forgiven.  This creates a conflict with the teachers of the law as they think that only God can forgive sins.  Jesus replies to them which is easier to do say your sins or forgiven or tell the man to get up and walk.  His healing of the man demonstrates his authority to do both.

The calling of Matthew is also a controversial act.  Tax collectors were often collaborators with Rome and also thieves.  They made their money by collecting more money than was owed.  Most people held them in the highest contempt.  For Jesus to go to eat with such a notorious sinner was unheard.  “Eating meals together was a religious matter among the Pharisees and other observant Jews.  Righteous Jews enacted many regulations to prevent themselves form being ceremonially defiled at meals..  It was not done so much to exclude others as to show commitment to the law.  Most Jews lived by the food laws most of the time.  Jesus did too.  But he regularly, purposively, and offensively ate with those who are ritually unclean or whose commitment to the law was inferior.  Sharing a meal with another indicated both covenantal and social equality….Jesus sharing meals with sinful people enacted God’s grace—he extended God’s love and forgiveness, welcoming open participation in a new society. (New Living Translation Study Bible, 1595.)

Matthew 9:11-13 “But when the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, ‘Why does your teacher eat with such scum.’  When Jesus hear this, he said, ‘Healthy people don’t need a doctor—sick people do.  Now go and learn the meaning of this scripture I want you to show mercy, not offer sacrifices (Hos 6.6).  For I have come to call not those who think they are righteous, but those who know they are sinners.’ NLT.  Today who are the ones we should ask to our banquets and have a meal with?

The last reflection deals with the woman.  She for 12 years could not be with her family, children or around any friends for fear of making them unclean.  In the other gospels it talks about her having seen physicians.  I can almost imagine how they must have treated her.  Go away and stop bothering me.  Obviously you have sinned and this is your punishment.  Having been rejected so many times, her actions of trying to demean herself by crawling to just touch Jesus’ robe is understandable.   Afraid of yet another rejection, she was willing to do what she could not to be noticed and yet be healed.  Jesus’ attention to her that likely she never received from anywhere else speaks of the compassion Jesus has for all people.

The chapter ends with the statement the harvest is great but the workers are few.  Today the work remains great are we willing to be the worker?

Monday, October 3, 2011

Matthew 8

It has been awhile since I have written.  It seems that in anyone’s life there are interruptions that affect ones desires.  I have had a number of other commitments that came up and by the time I got home I was so tired that I did not follow through with my blog and insights regarding Matthew.  Many may have continued to read and I would encourage you to complete your readings.  I will start taking chapter by chapter and not try to rush through the gospel.

Matthew 8 starts with a series of healing stories.  Warren Carter talks about that back in Chapter 4 Jesus proclaims that the kingdom of God is at hand.  What that would look like for us are these stories in chapter 8.  The kingdom of God would be a place where people would no longer be ill and ostracized from their family and community of faith.  For those who suffered from leprosy could not continue to be with their family as they were unclean, they could not live in the villages, and they could not worship in the synagogues or temple.  They could only stay alive by the grace of those around them.  It was also believed that if one would touch them they too would be unclean.  When Jesus reaches out and touches the leper, he breaks many of the laws about what is clean and unclean.  His willingness to heal the Roman officer’s servant also extends the kingdom of God to the gentiles.  Rome was the occupying country of Judea and were seen as the enemy.  Again note the fulfillment of the prophets in verse 17.

Another word about healing that is important to note in reading the stories of healing in the New Testament.  Healing was more than just curing someone of their illness.  It was more about restoration to the community.  Those who were healed could return to their families, to their homes, and could worship once again in the synagogues and the temple.  Think about what might be the leprosy of today?  For instance the concern of HIV infection and how many stated that they should be isolated from everyone out of the fear of contagion.  How many times our fears have led to the desire to ostracize someone.

The chapter also includes two other stories one of calming the sea and the exorcism of the demons.  The sea and the storms of the sea often were used to talk about chaos.  When Jesus rebukes the wind and waves, he is able to control the chaotic world.  This is similar to God’s spirit hovering over the deep in Genesis in the creation.

Warren Carter in talking about the pigs and the demons stated that this was an example of the counter-revolutionary aspect of the gospel  Pigs were unclean animals.  The demons knew who Jesus was and actually beyond the baptism affirmation of God is the first to state that Jesus is the Son of God.  In the other gospels, Jesus asked the name of the demon which was Legion.  The Roman legion that occupied Jerusalem had as their token animal a pig.  So here Jesus overcomes the power of Rome and their armies and utterly defeats them.

The people of the village are not thankful at all about what Jesus did in healing the men of their possession.  A good question would be why were they raising pigs which were unclean?  I believe that Jesus’ action is so powerful that witnessing to that power is frightening.  That is why the villagers wanted him to leave.

Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Matthew 6 and 7

I have to apologize that I did not get home early enough to write my thoughts about Matthew 6.  So tonight I am writing for both 6 and 7 to get caught up.  The challenge to read a chapter a day can at times be a real challenge especially when life continues on.  It is the dedication to continue and even when we fall short is not to give up and forget it but pick it up and start anew.

Carter talks about Matthew 6 continuing the Sermon on the Mount and that this chapter focuses on living justly.  The first verse warns us about how we practice our justice.  I often think about am I doing this to make me look good or to please God.  We are reminded that when we do things for others that we need to remember for whom we are doing this.  This will tie into Jesus talking in chapter 25.

6:2-4 talks about the first act of justice being almsgiving.  When we give to others don’t go around announcing it but rather have the left hand not know what the right hand is doing.  Have you ever done something and not let other know what you have done?  Often we want people to notice and give us thanks or accolades for our charity.  This is human nature.  Jesus reminds us the only reward we should seek is doing God’s will in this world.  We are to do justice and mercy not for the honor of others.  Think how often one has heard all the great things another has done.  It can become almost a time of competing with one another as to who is the greatest based on what charity each has done.

6:5-15 the second act of justice is prayer.  The author contrasts two forms of prayer that were common at the time and how this is not the way a disciple should pray.  The first is to stand out on the corner or synagogue or church so that others can see how pious they are.  They love to stand and pray.  It becomes a show look at me.  See how pious I am.  Jesus says rather it is better to go into a room by ones self and remember that we are praying to God not for people to notice.  The second error in prayers to ramble on as the pagans do.  There have been times when someone is praying and they go on and on and on.  As if they say many words, that their prayer is that much better.  Possibly if texting or tweeting were around Jesus might have pointed out that may be the best way to pray.

Here we have the Lord’s Prayer as it is written in this gospel.  There is one also in Luke with some differences.  I will be doing a sermon series on this prayer in November but here are some things to think about.  First the prayer is plural  Our Father, our bread, our debts.  There are three divine petitions and 3 human petitions.  Also note that what we add to the prayer is not present except in the King James translation. 

The third act of justice is fasting found in 6:16-18.  John Wesley encouraged every member of the church to fast at least once a week.  Jesus says if you do this don’t make a big deal of it.

6:19-34 talks about justice and materialism.  It is broken down in 19-21 warning about being distracted by material things.  22-23 a single focus on God’s kingdom.  24 how material things and God compete for the human heart.  25-34 trusting in God to supply what necessities of life.  This last section has been particularly meaningful in my life regarding living in a world the focuses not on trust but on anxiety.

Chapter 7 focuses on 1-6 a community of compassionate correction not condemnation.  How we treat others will be how we are treated.  There is a sense that we can become so concerned about correcting others or pointing faults of others and never developing the self-awareness of our own flaws.  We are tasked to remember that we are also sinners and that judging others without thought about our own sins is not just and is not love.  At the same time we are need to be accountable.  When we seek to help others, it may not be well received.  There is a time of letting go without judgment.  In Jewish life, dogs and pigs were unclean animals.

7-11 talks to about seeking God in life and prayer.  Reflect in your experience of times that you have sought God in prayer.  One person told me in my first appointment that God does answer prayer and sometimes it is yes, sometimes it is no, and sometimes it is not yet.  What do you think about this statement? 

12 summarizes the whole of this sermon.  This is the golden rule that we were taught in school.  “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”

The last part of the chapter deals with eschatological issues.  This is the judgment at the end of time.  The assertion is that God’s Will will prevail not the world’s.  It is important the choices that we make and people or things we covet or follow.

Sunday, September 18, 2011

Matthew 5

The Gospel of Matthew has five great discourses.  The first begins with this chapter.  The others are Chapter 10, chapter 13, chapter 18, and chapters 24-25.  What sets these apart is clear from the refrain that concludes each discourse “When Jesus had finished saying these things” or similar  words found in 7:28, 11.1, 13.53, 19.1 and 26.1.  These five discourses could be modeled after the Torah the first five books of the Bible.

The sermon on the mount begins in chapter 5 and ends in chapter 7.  All of these chapters tie together in a way to indicated what it would mean to live a disciple life.

Chapter 5 begins with Jesus seeing the crowds and going up a mountain side to speak.  Again the similarity of Moses going up the mountain to hear God’s word.  Jesus presents first God’s vision of the kingdom which is included in the beatitudes.  They contain, according to K. C. Hanson values of honor and affirm conditions and behaviors which God regards as honorable and esteemed and which are to be practiced by the audience.  As you read them, note how they emphasize an almost reversal of what the world would hold of value then and now.

Jesus follows this with two images of what the mission of the church is, salt and light.  It is the hearer of Jesus’ words that are to be the salt flavoring and purifying the world and light to which the  “nations will come to Mount Zion.”  It is not the political empire that will do this or even the religious elite.

According to Warren Carter verses 17-48 focus on Jesus interpreting the Torah.  It lays out arguments that those who are familiar with the Torah might make regarding what Jesus is teaching.  Most of these statements begin with you have heard it said but I tell you which takes the scripture and interprets the meaning.  Verse 17 begins with Jesus saying that he has not come to do away with the Law but to fulfill it.  Many of the interpretations support a more just action especially to those who are marginalized and without power (poor, women, being examples.)  5:48 ends with be perfect as the Father is perfect (NIV).  This echoes Leviticus 19:1-2 which states “Be Holy because I, Lord your God, am holy.”

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Matthew 4

I am sorry that this is later than normal.  I was having problems with my internet last night.  We are beginning to encounter in Matthew Jesus being commissioned and the beginning of his ministry.  I am going to use some insights from Dr. Warren Carter who was my professor in the New Testament who has written extensively on the gospel of Matthew.

Immediately after Jesus is baptized, he is led to the wilderness.  Carter talks about how this being led would remind the Jewish readers about God leading the people from Egypt into the wilderness.  Actually the verb carries more connotations than being led, almost being driven into the wilderness.  The wilderness represents the unknown and often associated with danger, demons, and other evil spirits.  Carter also points out another similarity with Moses when the people were led through the water (John’s baptism) to a place of testing and temptation.

While there Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights.  Throughout the Hebrew Testament the number 40 appears.  Noah’s story of the ark and raining 40 days, Moses on the mountain top receiving the commandments for 40 days, Elijah lying on his side for 40 days, and Jonah predicting the destruction of Nineveh in 40 days.  The number 40 when applied to years represent a generation such as the Israelites wandering in the wilderness for 40 years.  There is a sense of mystery, divine judgment and temptation associated with the number.

The temptations that are presented to Jesus are part of this time in the wilderness.  The tempter comes at a time when Jesus is at the most vulnerable.  I often think about when people who have given their lives to God who believe that they will never have to be tempted or that somehow by their action they will be blessed without any concerns.  Our baptism does not immune us to trials and tribulations, just as Jesus baptism did not immune him from temptation.

The first temptation was to use the power of God (gifts and talents maybe for us today) for our own needs without consideration of God’s Will.  How often do we take the gifts that we have and serve ourselves first and than what is left over goes to God?  And this is not just us as individuals but sometimes as an institution.  Jesus responds to this temptation again evoking the Exodus by quoting Moses from Deuteronomy. 

The next temptation has to do with power, political and religious power.  Jesus is taken to the center of both political power and religious power in Jerusalem.  It is interesting that the tempter uses scripture as a means to tempt Jesus.  I am reminded of how often even today leaders both political and others use scripture for their own agenda.  Jesus responds again from Deuteronomy.

The last temptation is for total control of the world.  Perhaps this is the greatest temptation.  What would be like to end hunger, poverty, illness, wars, and even death?  Would one be willing to forgo God’s will to seek to establish a status quo where we become gods unto ourselves?  Jesus will seek to end hunger, provide healing, raise the dead but not for his glory but for God’s glory.  One last time Jesus quotes Moses.

The rest of the chapter begins to focus on Jesus’ ministry.  John is arrested and Jesus goes to Galilee.  Jesus goes not to the political centers but instead goes to where the people are.  He does teach in the Synagogues but he is an itinerate preacher.

We have his first call to the disciples.  Those that he chooses are not the rich, educated, religious leaders, or even that popular.  He chooses very common poor laborers.  His ministry is first to those who are marginalized by those in power and interested in maintaining the status quo.  Note that Jesus calls them.  Those that are called do not belong to a certain birth status or tribe and later not even gender.

Jesus proclaims the gospel or good news both in seeking those to repent but also in healing and feeding those who were hungry.  In my training as a psychotherapist we learned about Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. Before one can deal with their spiritual needs they must have their physical, safety, and belonging needs met.  Jesus provides for not just spiritual healing but healing that is holistic.

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Matthew 3

Today we begin to look at Chapter 3 of Matthew.  The very first part of the chapter starts with John the Baptist preaching in the desert to “Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”  Later Jesus will say the same thing.  The use of Kingdom of Heaven only occurs in the gospel of Matthew and appears 33 times.  Mark and Luke talk about the Kingdom of God.  The author equates John the Baptist as fulfilling what the prophet Isaiah spoke.

Nowhere in this gospel are we told of the relationship between Jesus and John.  People would go out to him confessing their sins and being baptized.  Notice how John reacts to the Pharisees and Sadducees.  The author begins to foreshadow the conflicts that later would lead to John’s arrest and the conflicts that would occur with Jesus.

John is the prophet who foretells of Jesus.  Jesus is greater than John.  At the time, there were disciples of John who questioned whether or not Jesus was the one that John pointed.  The author states the differences between John who baptism for repentance and Jesus’ baptism of the Holy Spirit and judgment. 

Jesus is baptized by John.  When God announces that “This is my son whom I love, with him I am well pleased” only Jesus hears this and sees that spirit descend from heaven.  Note how this is different when we get to the transfiguration.  The act of baptism confirmed that Jesus was God’s Son and in the public act affirmed Jesus’ ministry.

Take some time to reflect on the differences of John and Jesus.  What do you think about Jesus demanding to be baptized when he was righteous and had no need to repent?

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Matthew 2

I hope that those who are taking the challenge have read chapter 1.  For anyone coming to this later these posts will be on our website or my blog so that you can catch up at any time.
Chapter 2 of Matthew
Think about your nativity set that you have or see.  Notice in the gospel there is no manger, no shepherds, the only angels that are present come in dreams to warn of danger.  It is easy to take the birth stories of Jesus and combine them into one story.  Here the birth of Jesus is matter of fact as to place and the political situation in which he was born.
The author tells the story of the magi and the interaction with King Herod.  Following the star to find their way, reflected the belief that when extraordinary events happen there is often signs in the heaven portending the event.   Reflect on how King Herod responds to the information of a new king being born.  The magi go to the political capital of Judea seeking this new king.  Yet the King of Kings is not in the political capital but in a small village outside of Jerusalem.  What do you make of this fact?
Notice that throughout this chapter how many times the author says about this is what the prophet said or this was to fulfill what the prophets had said.  Why do you think that the author would continue to speak about the prophets regarding the birth of Jesus?
The magi find Jesus in a house.  They are overjoyed and present their gifts to the mother and child.  Notice how messy the birth of Jesus becomes.  The quiet peaceful birth is reacted to by those in power through fear and death of innocents.  The child is rescued by dreams that Joseph has to go to Egypt again to fulfill prophecy.  This also foreshadows the future conflicts that will occur with Jesus and those in power both religious leaders and political leaders.
When the family returns from Egypt, they return to Nazareth rather than Bethlehem.  There was no mention about why they were in Bethlehem in the first place.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Gospel of Matthew

Last Sunday I mentioned how important it was to get back to scripture.  I mentioned that if one wanted to begin to study scripture and I recommended starting with the Gospel of Matthew.  I know that it is important to read the entire bible but starting with Matthew and reading closely what it says will point to Jesus’ scriptures found in the Hebrew Scriptures what we sometimes call the Old Testament.  Our church is offering a bible study on Matthew.
I began to reflect on doing something different.  So here is the challenge that I would like to present.  I would like to challenge people to read a chapter a day of Matthew.  The night before starting tonight, I will offer some insights and questions that may help focus on what we are reading.  We should be done with the gospel in 28 days.
So the challenge is to read Chapter one of the Gospel starting tomorrow.
Here are some insights to think about.  Why does the author start with a genealogy of Jesus?  What does it mean to be the son of David, the son of Abraham?  Genealogy for the Jews at that time determined status and one’s place in the history of the people.  Then as it is today status came from who your parent’s were and what tribe you belonged. 
Notice the people that are listed.  Were all the ones listed righteous people?  See Judges, Ruth, Kings, and Chronicles.  What would you make of the idea of 14 generations from Abraham to David, 14 from David to the Exile, and 14 to Joseph?
The author than tells the story of Joseph and Mary.  The focus of Matthew is more on Joseph than Mary which is focused more in the Gospel of Luke.  Notice verse 22 and 23.  Where is that prophecy?  Notice how important dreams are.

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Another excellent reflection

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Sharing another article from Scott.  This is an excellent resource for leaders in the church and other pastors.

I recently wrote a short blog post about white space. Read the post here.

We each have a mission. It's what God wants to do through us. But we are insanely distracted at every turn. It's the enemy's way of keeping us off target just enough that we are left unfulfilled, discouraged, and burned out.

I believe you can use this distraction as an opportunity. And here's where this week's challenge comes in:

1) First, get used to the inevitable. Distractions come in many forms. They are email messages, phone calls, visits to your office and the list goes on and on. Don't fight them. They are a part of life. It's part of our "Epic Battle".

2) Second, plan for the inevitable. This week, allow for 2 hours of distraction each day. This means, if you work 8 hours each day, only put 6 hours worth of work into it. This will position you nicely. For example, if you only have 1 hour of distraction, you have time to "borrow" from tomorrow's to do list and you are even more productive.

"I press on toward the goal..."

3) Third, process the inevitable. Giving 2 hours each day for the distractions gives you the capacity to take a look at the distractions themselves. Are they really divine appointments? Are they an indication you need to make a systemic change? Are they telling you something about a personal growth edge?

Tuesday, August 23, 2011

Sharing

This is a weekly email that I get which often contains information that I have found to be inspiring.  Thought I would share this with you.

 

 

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Stop Look Listen

Scott in a sweater

Featured Resource

Your Life In Rhythm

by Bruce B. Miller

This is the 249th issue sent

since February 22, 2007

"...fulfillment is the carrying out of your life's mission. It is being a responsible steward in each stage of your life. Burnout comes from trying to seize opportunities that do not fit the current season of your life."
Miller, Bruce B. Your Life in Rhythm (pp. 83-84)

To make the most of the quote above by Bruce Miller, we must stop the flow of life and assess where we are right now. So,

This Week's Challenge is to: 

STOP what you're doing. Put down the book you're reading. Stop responding you your email messages. Stop studying for your next sermon. Whatever you're doing, stop.

LOOK around you. What do you see? Are you convinced your life is in good rhythm? Would Jesus Christ be pleased with your use of time?

LISTEN to the still small voice down deep inside you. Hear what God is telling you through your emotional reactions of late. What is He saying to you through your scripture reading? What is he telling you through interactions with others?

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." 1 Peter 4.10

We will be talking about this week's challenge on the Community Call.

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08-17-2011 08:15:00 AM

It's time for another edition of the Serving Strong "Wednesday's With" blog series. This is the place to come on Wednesdays and hear how real life ministry leaders are staying strong in their calling. The main reason for this series is to counter all the negative news of ministry failure and burnout statistics we are [...]...»

The Only Thing I Need

08-16-2011 08:15:34 AM

Are you serving God to make Him happy with you? Are you serving so that one day you'll earn your way into heaven for eternity? Do you REALLY believe that unconditional love of God that you preach to your people? Watch this video and follow along with the lyrics and see if it defines what's [...]...»

You're Not All That

08-15-2011 08:02:56 AM

I was creeping on Facebook last night. You know how they put those birthday announcements to the right ("Hey! So-and-so has a birthday. Why not wish them a happy birthday on their wall")? Well an old friend from my childhood showed up. So I went to his page. Lo, and behold, he was BALD! Can [...]...»

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YEAH MINISTRY!!   booo burnout

Monday, August 22, 2011

Riches or the Cross

This week I will be preaching on Matthew 16:21-28.  Last Sunday I discussed the two questions Jesus asked the disciples.  The first was "What do others think about who I am?"  The second question was then more pointed asked to the disciples was "Who do you think I am?"  Peter answered, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the Living God."

This week I will continue to look at what that means when we claim that Jesus is our Lord and Messiah.  What do you think it means in your life?  Does it change the way you look at life?  Does it effect the choices you make?  And even with all of this should it make a difference?

What would you say about yourself and also how would you share with someone else?  Feel free to comment.  Come next week and let us reflect on this taking up one's cross.



Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Reflections on Matthew 16:13-23

I had proposed the question as to Peter’s response to Jesus’ question as to who Jesus is.  I want to add something to the first question that Jesus asked.  He said who do others think I am?  That is a legitimate question.  I remember as I was growing up, my parents telling me not to do things “because what would the neighbors think.”  How one measured up to others opinions was important to them and also to me.  Not that I would always be concerned about others opinions but I do believe that as John Wesley would say, “Do no harm and do all the good you can.” 

As a therapist, I know what can happened when someone is labeled either a trouble-maker, difficult to get along with, slow, stupid, an idiot.  One can be labeled enough that soon one begins to believe what others say.  At the same time if one does things in such a way as to create other’s opinions, that too can influence what one can do or not do.

Today we are encouraged to only think of ourselves and not to worry about what other people may think about us.  So the reputation that one has often catches people be surprise.  It is as if a person has blinders on that prevent them from truly seeing themselves as others see them.  This applies to individuals and families but it also applies to churches and other organizations.

We have been doing a survey among ourselves as to what we think we are known for.  I have not seen the results of those surveys and I am looking forward to seeing them.  Maybe if we really wanted to find out what we are known for we should ask non-members of our church to get a better view.  I would pray that there would be enough similarities between our internal and external survey.  But it may get more of an answer as to how do others see us.

Monday, August 15, 2011

Who do you say I am

I was attending a church in Nashville yesterday and was reminded how important it is to use technology to reach and to receive feedback from people.  The church I attended is a church in transition.  At one time a very vibrant ministry that today is dying.  They are looking at the changes that have occurred in their neighborhood and have decided to do something about it.  Their mission statement is to make disciples of Jesus Christ by modeling Jesus.  Their vision statement is to do this by loving our neighbors.  It reminded me as I entered the building of my home church.  I could not go 5 feet without someone coming up and introducing themselves and taking me to introduce me to others.  They certainly were a welcoming community.

Part of their struggle is that they are an elderly congregation.  Yet, they have not given up.  They have a new young pastor who has been there 7 weeks.  He has  brought the idea of web sites, pod casts, and developing an alternative service.  The congregation has been supporting this wholeheartedly.  They know that even though the foundation of Jesus Christ as savior has not changed, the way we can speak the message can change.

This leads me to remember that Jesus often used what appeared to be radical ideas to convey the Kingdom.  Today Jesus might employ our technology to reach those who are in need of hearing God’s mercy, love, and grace.

When I return from vacation, I will be using the scripture from Matthew 16:13-20.   Jesus asks two important questions.  The first is “Who do others say I am?”  The second question is “Who do you say I am?”  So readers I would ask you today, who do you say Jesus is?

Let me know what you are thinking.

Blessings

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Wednesday June 22

Today from When You Pray, was the scripture from Colossians 1:21-23.  I used the Message to comment on.

The Message

21-23You yourselves are a case study of what he does. At one time you all had your backs turned to God, thinking rebellious thoughts of him, giving him trouble every chance you got. But now, by giving himself completely at the Cross, actually dying for you, Christ brought you over to God's side and put your lives together, whole and holy in his presence. You don't walk away from a gift like that! You stay grounded and steady in that bond of trust, constantly tuned in to the Message, careful not to be distracted or diverted. There is no other Message—just this one. Every creature under heaven gets this same Message. I, Paul, am a messenger of this Message.

As we prepare to celebrate 125 years in Johnstown and alumni weekend in Ainsworth, it is important to remember that we need to stay grounded in the gospel.  We don’t just decided to live one life during the week and then live another on Sunday.  Christ did put our lives together in reconciliation to the Father.  We are reminded not to walk away from this gift of grace that has been given to us. 

That does not mean we cannot have fun and enjoy life.  It does mean that we need to live a life that is consistent with Jesus’ message.  So enjoy the celebrations but take time to bless God.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Tuesday June 21, 2011

I have begun doing some devotions based on Rueben Job’s When You Pray. Each day he has a scripture reading and then also some reflections based on the Sunday previous. Last Sunday was Trinity Sunday as well as Father’s day. I was struck and have been about what we can do to build each other up and also at the same time hold people accountable. The scripture from Philippians has been helpful to remind myself that first I need to remember that we are united in Christ. So I first need to return to Christ in my life which can help me deal with others.

I would love that we would be of one mind, one spirit, one love. Each of us would interpret that differently which is a blessing. At the same time, I and I am sure others need to be reminded that we are in this together and when we spend time and energy seeking what I want over other’s wants, we are not of the same mind of Christ. Steven Covey in his book 7 Habits of Highly Successful People stated that first you seek to understand and then seek to be understood. One of the wonderful things has been the concept of holy conferencing. This allows those who normally don’t share an opportunity to be heard.

So I need to take time to reflect on what Jesus did for me. And to share that with others and to lift up others to encourage them to work out my salvation with fear and trembling.

Philippians 2:1-13

New International Version (NIV)

Imitating Christ’s Humility

1 Therefore if you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any common sharing in the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, 2 then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind. 3 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, 4 not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

5 In your relationships with one another, have the same mindset as Christ Jesus:

6 Who, being in very nature[a] God,
   did not consider equality with God something to be used to his own advantage;
7 rather, he made himself nothing
   by taking the very nature[b] of a servant,
   being made in human likeness.
8 And being found in appearance as a man,
   he humbled himself
   by becoming obedient to death—
      even death on a cross!

9 Therefore God exalted him to the highest place
   and gave him the name that is above every name,
10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,
   in heaven and on earth and under the earth,
11 and every tongue acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord,
   to the glory of God the Father.

Do Everything Without Grumbling

12 Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed—not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence—continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, 13 for it is God who works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Wednesday May 18

This Sunday is Heritage Sunday as well as confirmation Sunday.  Heritage Sunday occurs on the Sunday closest to John Wesley’s Aldersgate experience.  For the non-Methodists, John Wesley, a priest in the Anglican church, struggled with feeling assured of his salvation.  He had been preaching mostly to the poor and also to the Native Americans.  When he returned from the colonies, he attended a class meeting at Aldersgate.  Someone was reading Martin Luther’s commentary on Romans and John felt “his heart strangely warmed.”  At that moment, he knew that Christ had died for him and that he was saved.

Since that time, Heritage Sunday has taken on differing meanings.  Often it is a time that we recognize those who have been a member of the United Methodist Church 50 or 70 years.  I do feel it is important to recognize the contributions of those who have been part of the church for a significant time.  I also believe that it is important to recognize all members regardless of years.  So this Sunday, we will confirm that confirmation class of 2011 who will become our newest professing members as well as our oldest member.  For we are all called into ministry the young and old, male and female.  The work of the church depends on the talents of all the gathered body of Christ.

We also need to remember that Heritage Sunday honors John Wesley who on May 24th received the assurance of his salvation.  May we also have the same assurance of God’s grace for each of us as we celebrate this Sunday.

Friday, May 13, 2011

here it is another Friday

It is hard to believe another week has gone by.  Nebraska is such a great state and especially with the weather the way it is.  We sent from almost 100 degrees to this morning being 37 degrees.  At least we got some needed rain.  I wanted to post some more graduation quotes as we prepare to honor our graduates.

What lies behind us and what lies before us are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.  ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Do not follow where the path may lead.  Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail.  ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did.  So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor.  Catch the trade winds in your sails.  Explore.  Dream.  Discover.  ~Attributed to Mark Twain, unconfirmed
Don't judge each day by the harvest you reap but by the seeds that you plant.  ~Robert Louis Stevenson
Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value.  ~Albert Einstein
If at first you don't succeed, do it like your mother told you.  ~Author Unknown

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind.  ~Dr. Seuss

The important thing is not to stop questioning.  ~Albert Einstein

During my second year of nursing school our professor gave us a quiz.  I breezed through the questions until I read the last one:  "What is the first name of the woman who cleans the school?"  Surely this was a joke.  I had seen the cleaning woman several times, but how would I know her name?  I handed in my paper, leaving the last question blank.  Before the class ended, one student asked if the last question would count toward our grade.  "Absolutely," the professor said.  "In your careers, you will meet many people.  All are significant.  They deserve your attention and care, even if all you do is smile and say hello."  I've never forgotten that lesson.  I also learned her name was Dorothy.  ~Joann C. Jones

My prayer for our graduates is that they never forget that they are children of God, that they are loved by not just their parents and friends but the entire community of faith.  They take the gifts they have and develop them, share them with others not just for their glory but the glory of God.  Pastor Eldon

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Tuesday Thoughts

I thought I would include some more quotes about graduation.

The tassel's worth the hassle!  ~Author Unknown
The fireworks begin today.  Each diploma is a lighted match.  Each one of you is a fuse.  ~Edward Koch
All that stands between the graduate and the top of the ladder is the ladder.  ~Author Unknown
Graduation is only a concept.  In real life every day you graduate.  Graduation is a process that goes on  until the last day of your life.  If you can grasp that, you'll make a difference.  ~Arie Pencovici

Monday, May 9, 2011

Yet another Monday

Today being yet another Monday, I am in the preparation for graduation next Sunday.  I am planning on preaching from 1 Timothy 4:1-15.  I remember when I graduated from high school and when I graduated with my Master's degree both in Social Work and as well as Divinity the sense of having completed something and knowing that I was just beginning.

Graduation is like the sense of completing one thing just to be going onto the next.  Sometimes, it seems that we can lose sight of where we have been as we look forward to where we are going.  It is important to remember the foundation of growing years and not lose sight of what is really important.  It is easy to become enamored with the world.  It is also easy to be swayed by our experiences that we have when we leave home.  That is the time that we need to remember our values that we have learned, the gifts God has given, and to trust in that love of Christ.

Last week I quoted some articles about mothers.  This week I will be putting in some quotes about graduation.  Enjoy.

A graduation ceremony is an event where the commencement speaker tells thousands of students dressed in identical caps and gowns that "individuality" is the key to success.  ~Robert Orben
Just about a month from now I'm set adrift, with a diploma for a sail and lots of nerve for oars.  ~Richard Halliburton
There is a good reason they call these ceremonies "commencement exercises."  Graduation is not the end; it's the beginning.  ~Orrin Hatch
Your families are extremely proud of you.  You can't imagine the sense of relief they are experiencing.  This would be a most opportune time to ask for money.  ~Gary Bolding

Friday, May 6, 2011

Friday formations

Some more thoughts on Mother’s Day

Anna M. Jarvis (1864-1948) first suggested the national observance of an annual day honoring all mothers because she had loved her own mother so dearly. At a memorial service for her mother on May 10, 1908, Miss Jarvis gave a carnation (her mother’s favorite flower) to each person who attended. Within the next few years, the idea of a day to honor mothers gained popularity, and Mother’s Day was observed in a number of large cities in the U.S. On May 9, 1914, by an act of Congress.
President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. He established the day as a time for “public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” By then it had become customary to wear white carnations to honor departed mothers and red to honor the living, a custom that continues to this day.

An ounce of mother is worth a ton of priest.
—Spanish proverb

No one is poor who has a godly mother.
—Abraham Lincoln

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Wednesday wisdom

Yet another article on Mother’s Day.

Things Mom would never say:
“How on earth can you see the television sitting so far back?”
“Yeah, I used to skip school a lot, too.”
“Just leave all the lights on. It makes the house look more cheery.”
“Let me smell that shirt. Yeah, it’s good for another week.”
“Go ahead and keep that stray dog, Honey. I’ll be glad to feed and walk him every day.”
“Well, if Timmy’s mom says it’s okay, that’s good enough for me.”
“The curfew is just a general time to shoot for. It’s not like I’m running a prison around here.”
“I don’t have a tissue with me .... just use your sleeve.”

Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Tuesday thoughts

Here is more on Mother’s Day to reflect on this day.

A man stopped at a shop to order some flowers to be wired to his mother who lived 200 miles away. As he got out of his car, he noticed a young girl sitting on the curb sobbing. He asked her what was wrong, and she replied, “I wanted to buy a red rose for my mother. But I only have 75¢, and a rose costs $2.”
The man smiled and said, “Come on in with me. I’ll buy you a rose.” He bought the little girl her rose and ordered his own mother’s flowers. As they were leaving, he offered to take the girl home.
She said, “Yes, please! You can take me to my mother.” She directed him to a cemetery, where she placed the rose on a freshly dug grave.
The man returned to the flower shop, canceled the wire order, picked up a bouquet and drove the 200 miles to his mother’s house.

Remember that we need to make sure to say and do the things we can to honor our mothers now.

Monday, May 2, 2011

Monday morning in May

This Sunday is Mother’s day or as sometimes we look at Festival of the Christian home.  As I am planning the worship service, I thought I would share some illustrations as to Mothers.  Here is the first of the these.

Top Ten Quotes from Biblical Mothers:
10. Samson! Get your hand out of that lion. You don’t know where it’s been!
9. David! I told you not to play in the house with that sling! Go practice your harp. We pay good money for those lessons!
8. Abraham! Stop wandering around the countryside and get home for supper!
7. Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego! Leave those clothes outside, you smell like a dirty ol’ furnace!
6. Cain! Get off your brother! You’re going to kill him someday!
5. Noah! No, you can’t keep them! I told you, don’t bring home any more strays!
4. Gideon! Have you been hiding in that wine press again? Look at your clothes!
3. James and John! No more burping contests at the dinner table, please. People are going to call you the sons of thunder!
2. Judas! Have you been in my purse again?
1. Jesus! What do you think, you were born in a barn?

I have come across a YouTube video that I will be using at the early service about mothers.  One thing that I believe is important that a sense of humor is important in what we do and at the same time to be sure to honor our mother’s and all women who were important in our own life.  God bless all women, mothers, grandmothers, aunts, teachers, medical professionals, pastors, counselors. 

Friday, April 29, 2011

Winner of the free cup of coffee

We did have a winner of the free cup of coffee.  Many knew that it was the Lord's Prayer but failed to translate word for word in the post-modern English.  My secretary who knows the deviousness of me was able to do make the translation.
She collected her free  cup of coffee.

Tuesday, April 26, 2011


Distorted Thinking - Pt 5

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that..." (Romans 12.2 NASB bold mine)

The BrainThis issue concludes the 5-week series of issues regarding 15 types of distorted thinking*. As indicated in each issue of this series, I encourage you to pray first, then read the description of each type, asking God to search your being.


Now, see if any of the following 3 types of distorted thinking are getting in the way of your serving strong...

Global Labeling. The global labeler generalizes one or two qualities into a negative global judgement. They ignore contrary evidence, ending with a one-dimensional world view. They do this with themselves and others. Therefore, their self esteem is hindered and their relationships suffer.  Are you a Global Labeler?

Being Right.  This type of person perpetually feels guilty until proven innocent. Therefore they always feel on trial to prove that their opinions and actions are correct. Being wrong is unthinkable to this person and they will go to any length to demonstrate their rightness. Worse, being right becomes more important than cultivating honest, caring relationships.  Do you always need to be right?

Heaven's Reward Fallacy. The person with this fallacy is always operating as if someone is constantly keeping score. They work for a reward and when the reward doesn't come as expected, they become bitter. The problem with this approach is that while they are always doing the "right thing", their heart isn't always in it - and that causes a depletion of physical and emotional energy.  Are you operating with a Heaven's Reward Fallacy?

Can you identify with any of these types of distorted thoughts? If so, lay your mind before the throne of an Almighty God who wants so desperately to work with you and restore you to health. If you need professional help, seek it. There is no shame in journeying to wholeness with the help of others. 

I trust over this past 5-week series you gained a great deal of insight into the kinds of thoughts that can keep us from serving strong. Let me know if you have any insights or questions. I'd love to hear from you. Stay strong this week!

Monday, April 25, 2011

Monday musing

I have a challenge for all you Monday morning readers.  Decipher the following for a free cup of coffee.  The translation has to be accurate to the word.

Dad@hvn, ur spshl. we want wot u want &urth2b like hvn. giv us food & 4giv r sins lyk we 4giv uvaz. don test us! sAv us! bcos we kno ur boss, ur tuf & ur cool 4 eva! k?’

Friday, April 22, 2011

Good Friday 2011

I am sitting here at home preparing for a memorial service tomorrow, Easter this Sunday, and will be in the Living Last Supper tonight.  Last night we did a Maundy Thursday service with about 50 people present.  We started with a lite supper and had communion with unleavened bread.  We proceeded into the sanctuary where we did a modified stations of the cross with scripture and extinguishing of the light.  We nailed our sins to the cross as part of the service.

I am not sure about others but I find that I need to remember that one does not go directly from Palm Sunday to Easter morning.  I need to remember the passion of Christ and what he choose to do for me.  The scriptures that speak about this are the suffering servant scriptures found in Isaiah.  Christ endured torture, humiliation, pain, and even death for me.  One of the reflections I had was when Jesus told his disciples that no greater love can one have than to lay down their life for another.  He did this for me and for you.

Let us not forget what Jesus did.  Passion week is a reminder for all of us.  This is more than Easter egg hunts, Easter lilies, the Easter bunny.  It is about our Lord nailed to a cross, who dies and is buried.  We also know that is not the end of the story.  Thanks be to God.

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

The latest from Serving Strong.

Distorted Thinking - Pt 4

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that..." (Romans 12.2 NASB bold mine)

The BrainWe are currently in a 5-week series of issues regarding 15 types of distorted thinking*. We are taking 3 types per issue. As indicated in each issue of this series, I encourage you to pray first, then read the description of each type, asking God to search your being.

Review Part 1

Review Part 2

Review Part 3

Now, see if any of the following 3 types of distorted thinking are getting in the way of your serving strong...

Shoulds. The "should" person has a list of ironclad rules about how they and other people should act. They are angered when others break the rules. They are shamed if they themselves break the rules. The rules rule. Therefore this person is always in a position of judge. Key words include "should" "ought" or "must".  Are you a Should person?

Emotional Reasoning.  What you feel = truth, automatically. If you feel stupid, you are stupid. The problem with this kind of thinking is that our emotions interact and correlate with our thinking process. Therefore, if you have distorted thoughts, your emotions will reflect these distortions.  Do you engage in Emotional Reasoning?

Fallacy of Change. The person with this fallacy thinks that with enough pressure on others, those people will change to suit them. Change is a must or this person will not be happy. Their underlying assumption is that their happiness depends on the actions of others. They don't see that their happiness actually depends on the thousands of choices, large and small, they make in their life.  Are you operating with a Fallacy of Change?

Can you identify with any of these types of distorted thoughts? If so, lay your mind before the throne of an Almighty God who wants so desperately to work with you and restore you to health. If you need professional help, seek it. There is no shame in journeying to wholeness with the help of others. 

Stay tuned. Next week we'll complete the list of 15 thinking distortions with "Global Labeling", "Being Right", and "Heaven's Reward Fallacy". Stay strong this week!

Tuesday, April 12, 2011

Distorted Thinking - Pt 3

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that..." (Romans 12.2 NASB bold mine)

The BrainWe are currently in a 5-week series of issues regarding 15 types of distorted thinking*. We will take 3 types per issue. As indicated last week, I encourage you to pray first, then read the description of each type, asking God to search your being.

Review Part 1

Review Part 2

Now, see if any of the following 3 types of distorted thinking are getting in the way of your serving strong...

Control Fallacies. A person who has control fallacies will distort their sense of control and power in one of two ways: a) if they feel externally controlled, they will see themselves as a victim of fate, helpless; b) if they feel internal control, the fallacy is they feel responsible for the pain and happiness of everyone around them. The former keeps them stuck. The latter leaves them exhausted.  Do you have a control fallacy?

Fallacy of Fairness.  Fairness is so conveniently defined, so easily self-serving, that each person gets locked into their own point of view. The person with the fallacy of fairness feels resentful because they think they know what's fair but others won't agree with them. They make assumptions about how things would change if people were only fair or really valued them.  Do you have a fallacy of fairness?

Blaming. The blamer holds other people responsible for their (the blamer's) pain. This involves making someone else responsible for choices and decisions that are actually the blamer's responsibility. In the blame game, the blamer denies their right and responsibility to assert their needs, say no, or go elsewhere for what they want.  Are you a blamer?

Can you identify with any of these types of distorted thoughts? If so, lay your mind before the throne of an Almighty God who wants so desperately to work with you and restore you to health. If you need professional help, seek it. There is no shame in journeying to wholeness with the help of others. 

Stay tuned. Next week we'll continue with "Shoulds", "Emotional Reasoning", and "Fallacy of Change". Stay strong this week!

Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Distorted Thinking part 2

I am including the second part of the distorted thinking.

Distorted Thinking - Pt 2

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that..." (Romans 12.2 NASB bold mine)

The BrainWe are currently in a series of issues regarding 15 types of distorted thinking*. We will take 3 or 4 types per issue. As indicated last week, I encourage you to pray first, then read the description of each type, asking God to search your being. To review last week's issue, Click Here.

Now, see if any of these types of distorted thinking are getting in the way of serving strong.

Mind Reading. Without saying a word, a mind reader knows that people are feeling and why they act the way they do. Particularly, they are able to divine how people are feeling toward them. Mind reading depends on a process called projection. A mind reader imagines that people feel the same way they do and react to things the same way they do. As a result, they don't watch or listen carefully enough to notice the differences. Mind readers jump to conclusions that are true for them, without checking whether they are true for the other person.  Are you a mind reader?

Catastrophizing.  This is where you expect disaster. The catastrophizer notices or hears about a problem and starts the "what ifs" ("What if that happens to me? What if tragedy strikes?") There are no limits to a really fertile catastrophic imagination. The underlying foundation for this style of thinking is that the catastrophizer doesn't trust in themself and their capacity to adapt to change.  Are you a catastrophizer?

Personalization. Personalizers possess the tendency to relate everything around them to themself. Like, thinking that everything people do or say is some kind of reaction to them. They compare themselves to others, trying to determine who's smarter, better looking, and so on. The underlying foundation: their worth is always in question. Therefore, they are always forced to test their value as a person by measuring themselves against others. If they come out better, a sigh of relief. If they come up short, feeling diminished.  Are you an personalizer?

Can you identify with any of these types of distorted thoughts? If so, lay your mind before the throne of an Almighty God who wants so desperately to work with you and restore you to health. If you need professional help, seek it. There is no shame in journeying to wholeness with the help of others. 

Stay tuned. Next week we'll continue with "Control Fallacies", "Fallacy of Fairness", and "Blaming". Stay strong this week!

I will also begin starting next Sunday including  what a group of pastors and myself are studying on Wednesday mornings on the stations of the cross with some insights.  This will be a daily event leading to Easter Sunday.

Friday, April 1, 2011

April 1st

This is no April Fool's joke.  The Pittsburgh Pirates won their opener in Chicago.  I am in Pittsburgh spending time with my new grand child Chayse. Pictures will be on facebook.  I have had a great time though a short time.  I am reminded how important family is.  Unfortunately I am leaving tomorrow to come back to Ainsworth so the trip was short.  I greatly enjoy my time with Ainsworth and Johnstown United Methodist Church and they have been so supportive and willing to look at the ministries that we are doing and even those that we can do.
This Sunday I will be preaching from John 9:1-41 about the blind man healed by Jesus.  I often think about what it means to be blind not just physically but blind to how God is responding in  our lives.  Lent is the time for everyone to open their eyes and remember what God has done for you.  May God be with you this day.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

Tuesday March 29th

This is the third day of snow here in the upper plains.  Even though it melts on the roads by afternoon, it is tiring to see so much snow this in spring.  I would believe since Sunday we have had at least six inches.  The upside of all of this is the moisture that we are receiving will be great for the ground.  I am concerned that my daffodils which were coming up will not be frozen.  Such is the life in Nebraska and especially in the sand hills.

I am copying this from Serving Strong.  I have found the newsletter to be inspiring for me at different times.  What he as to say about distorted thinking is something that I used to have people look at when I was a counselor.  It is easy to fall into what AA would call stinking thinking.  Sometimes it may help us recognize when we have fallen into this type of thinking.

Distorted Thinking - Pt 1

"And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, so that..." (Romans 12.2 NASB bold mine)

The BrainHey Eldon, don't you know a lot of the struggle in circumstances comes not from the circumstances themselves, but from what takes place between our ears. The mind is a terribly wonderful organ of the body. It can imagine the greatest of inventions. Yet it can keep the best person chained down like a slave, inhibiting what God desires.

Over the next several issues, we will be looking at 15 types of distorted thinking*. We will take 3 or 4 types per issue. I encourage you to pray first, then read the description of each type, asking God to search your being. See if any of these types of distorted thinking are getting in the way of serving strong.

Filtering. People who do this take the negative details and magnify them, while filtering out all positive aspects of a situation. A single detail may be picked out, and the whole event becomes colored by this detail. When the filtering person pulls negative things out of context, isolated from all the good experiences around them, they make them larger and more awful than they really are.  Are you a filterer?

Polarized Thinking.  The hallmark of this distortion is an insistence on dichotomous choices. Things are black or white, good or bad. The polarized thinker tends to perceive everything at the extremes, with very little room for a middle ground. The greatest danger in polarized thinking is its impact on how a person judges himself. For example, they feel they have to be perfect or they're a failure.  Are you a polarized thinker?

Overgeneralization. The overgeneralizer comes to a general conclusion based on a single incident or piece of evidence. If something bad happens once, this person expects it to happen over and over again. "Always" and "never" are cues that this style of thinking is being utilized. This distortion can lead to a restricted life, as this person avoids future failures based on the single incident or event.  Are you an overgeneralizer?

Can you identify with any of these types of distorted thoughts? If so, lay your mind before the throne of an Almighty God who wants so desperately to work with you and restore you to health. If you need professional help, seek it. There is no shame in journeying to wholeness with the help of others. 

Stay tuned. Next week we'll continue with "Mind Reading", "Catastrophizing", and "Personalization". Stay strong!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

UM101

Tonight is the first session on our UM101 classes.  I am excited to be teaching this and am also excited by the number of people who are wanting to learn more about our church and our history.  I will have both those who have been members for a period of time as well as new potential members. 

I will be handing out these handouts but thought I would put them on my blog and the website www.ainsworthjohnstownumc.org.

THOUGHTS UPON METHODISM
Rev. John Wesley
1. I AM not afraid that the people called
Methodists should ever cease to exist either in
Europe or America. But I am afraid, lest they
should only exist as a dead sect, having the
form of religion without the power. And this
undoubtedly will be the case, unless they hold
fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline
with which they first set out.
2. What was their fundamental doctrine? That
the Bible is the whole and sole rule both of
Christian faith and practice. Hence they
learned, (1.) That religion is an inward
principle; that it is no other than the mind that
was in Christ; or, in other words, the renewal
of the soul after the image of God, in
righteousness and true holiness. (2.) That this
can never be wrought in us, but by the power
of the Holy Ghost. (3.) That we receive this,
and every other blessing, merely for the sake
of Christ: And, (4.) That whosoever hath the
mind that was in Christ, the same is our
brother, and sister, and mother.
3. In the year 1729 four young students in
Oxford agreed to spend their evenings
together. They were all zealous members of
the Church of England, and had no peculiar
opinions, but were distinguished only by their
constant attendance on the church and
sacrament. In 1735 they were increased to
fifteen; when the chief of them embarked for
America, intending to preach to the heathen
Indians. Methodism then seemed to die away;
but it revived again in the year 1738; especially
after Mr. Wesley (not being allowed to preach
in the churches) began to preach in the fields.
One and another then coming to inquire what
they must do to be saved, he desired them to
meet him all together; which they did, and
increased continually in number. In
November, a large building, the Foundery,
being offered him, he began preaching
therein, morning and evening; at five in the
morning, and seven in the evening, that the
people's labour might not be hindered.
4. From the beginning the men and women
sat apart, as they always did in the primitive
church; and none were suffered to call any
place their own, but the first comers sat down
first. They had no pews; and all the benches
for rich and poor were of the same
construction. Mr. Wesley began the service
with a short prayer; then sung a hymn and
preached, (usually about half an hour,) then
sang a few verses of another hymn, and
concluded with prayer. His constant doctrine
was, salvation by faith, preceded by
repentance, and followed by holiness.
5. But when a large number of people was
joined, the great difficulty was, to keep them
together. For they were continually scattering
hither and thither, and we knew no way to
help it. But God provided for this also, when
we thought not of it. A year or two after, Mr.
Wesley met the chief of the society in Bristol,
and inquired, "How shall we pay the debt
upon the preaching-house?" Captain Foy
stood up and said, "Let every one in the
society give a penny a week, and it will easily
be done." "But many of them," said one,
"have not a penny to give." "True," said the
Captain; "then put ten or twelve of them to
me. Let each of these give what they can
weekly, and I will supply what is wanting."
Many others made the same offer. So Mr.
Wesley divided the societies among them;
assigning a class of about twelve persons to
each of these, who were termed Leaders.
6. Not long after, one of these informed Mr.
Wesley that, calling on such a one in his
house, he found him quarrelling with his wife.
Another was found in drink. It immediately
struck into Mr. Wesley’s mind, "This is the
very thing we wanted. The Leaders are the
persons who may not only receive the
contributions, but also watch over the souls of
their brethren." The society in London, being
informed of this, willingly followed the
example of that in Bristol; as did every society
from that time, whether in Europe or
America. By this means, it was easily found if
any grew weary or faint, and help was speedily
administered. And if any walked disorderly,
they were quickly discovered, and either
amended or dismissed.
7. For those who knew in whom they had
believed, there was another help provided.
Five or six, either married or single men, met
together at such an hour as was convenient,
according to the direction of St. James,
"Confess your faults one to another, and pray
one for another, and ye shall be healed." And
five or six of the married or single women
met together for the same purpose.
Innumerable blessings have attended this
institution, especially in those who were going
on to perfection. When any seemed to have
attained this, they were allowed to meet with a
select number, who appeared, so far as man
could judge, to be partakers of the same
"great salvation."
8. From this short sketch of Methodism, (so
called,) any man of understanding may easily
discern, that it is only plain, scriptural religion,
guarded by a few prudential regulations. The
essence of it is holiness of heart and life; the
circumstantials all point to this. And as long
as they are joined together in the people called
Methodists, no weapon formed against them
shall prosper. But if even the circumstantial
parts are despised, the essential will soon be
lost. And if ever the essential parts should
evaporate, what remains will be dung and
dross.
9. It nearly concerns us to understand how
the case stands with us at present. I fear,
wherever riches have increased, (exceeding
few are the exceptions,) the essence of
religion, the mind that was in Christ, has
decreased in the same proportion. Therefore
do I not see how it is possible, in the nature
of things, for any revival of true religion to
continue long. For religion must necessarily
produce both industry and frugality; and these
cannot but produce riches. But as riches
increase, so will pride, anger, and love of the
world in all its branches.
10. How, then, is it possible that Methodism,
that is, the religion of the heart, though it
flourishes now as a green bay-tree, should
continue in this state? For the Methodists in
every place grow diligent and frugal;
consequently, they increase in goods. Hence
they proportionably increase in pride, in
anger, in the desire of the flesh, the desire of
the eyes, and the pride of life. So, although the
form of religion remains, the spirit is swiftly
vanishing away.
11. Is there no way to prevent this? this
continual declension of pure religion? We
ought not to forbid people to be diligent and
frugal: We must exhort all Christians to gain
all they can, and to save all they can; that is, in
effect, to grow rich! What way, then, (I ask
again,) can we take, that our money may not
sink us to the nethermost hell? There is one
way, and there is no other under heaven. If
those who "gain all they can," and "save all
they can," will likewise "give all they can;"
then, the more they gain, the more they will
grow in grace, and the more treasure they will
lay up in heaven.
London, August 4, 1786

The United Methodist Way
Living the Christian Life in Covenant with Christ and One Another
Introduction
Methodism began as a movement of spiritual renewal within a national church marked by
much nominal commitment and spiritual lethargy. Early Methodists adopted a Way of living in
covenant with Christ and one another that yielded rich spiritual fruit in their lives and in their
engagement with the world. One result of this vitality was the emergence of Methodism as a
distinct tradition and its growth in North America into a family of denominations. But over
the course of this growth these denominations gradually abandoned central aspects of the
original “Methodist Way.” They settled into the status of mainstream Protestant churches,
distinguishing themselves primarily by their unique polity. This process was accompanied by
increasing loss of spiritual vigor, evangelical zeal, and missional vitality. As an heir of these
developments, The United Methodist Church finds itself today (particularly in North America)
in the ironic position of being marked by much nominal commitment and spiritual lethargy.
We stand in need of our own movement of renewal!
There are many pockets of vitality within contemporary United Methodism, especially in
broader global settings, that can and must contribute to this renewal. But even in these settings
there is much to be gained from considering anew—and reclaiming—the Way of life that
defined and empowered the early Methodist movement.
Orienting Goal of the Methodist Way:
Transformed Lives and a Transformed World
One of the sharpest distillations of the Methodist Way is John Wesley’s “Thoughts upon
Methodism,” published in 1786, near the end of his long and faithful ministry. In this short
essay Wesley warned that the Methodist movement would become a dead sect, having the
form of religion but lacking its power, unless they held fast to the crucial insights and practices
that birthed the movement. Significantly, the first insight that he emphasizes early Methodists
drew from their broad study of Scripture is “That religion is an inward principle; that it is no
other than the mind that was in Christ; or, in other words, the renewal of the soul after the
image of God, in righteousness and true holiness.”
Every journey is oriented by its goal. For the early Methodists the goal of their Way of life was
to become faithful and mature disciples of Christ. This meant far more than just affirming
Christ as their Lord, or having an assurance of his pardoning love. They longed for what they
saw promised in Scripture—the transformation of their sin-distorted attitudes and dispositions
into ever greater conformity with Christ’s abiding love for God, for neighbor, and for the
whole creation. As Charles Wesley put it in a hymnic prayer, they longed for Christ to “Plant,
and root, and fix in me / All the mind that was in Thee.”
In other words, while the early Methodists celebrated the freedom from sin that comes in the
new birth, they fervently desired that greater freedom for walking in God’s life-giving ways
and participating in God’s saving mission. Implicit in this desire was their conviction that
concern for transformation of the heart is not a distraction from or alternative to concern for
the world around us. As John Wesley frequently reminded them, holiness of heart is
reciprocally connected to holiness of life. As we experience the love of God transforming
our lives we are more inclined to engage the world around us in compassionate and
transforming ways—and as we engage the world in these ways we find our own transformation
in Christ-likeness deepened! 1
Crucial Dynamics of the Methodist Way:
Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline
Such “holiness of heart and life” is surely desirable, but how is it possible? John Wesley’s
contribution to early Methodism focused particularly around this question, as he led in
developing a balanced Way of life that drew upon the wisdom of Scripture and the broad
Christian tradition. He summarized the central dynamics of this Way in “Thoughts upon
Methodism” by exhorting Methodists to hold fast “the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with
which they first set out.”
1. Centered in God’s Empowering Spirit
It is fitting that “spirit” stands in the middle of this list, for the central characteristic of the
spirit of early Methodism was recognition that their desired transformation was possible only
through the gracious empowering work of the Holy Spirit. In Wesley’s enumeration of the
crucial insights of early Methodism, the opening emphasis on the goal is followed immediately
by: “2) That this can never be wrought in us, but by the power of the Holy Ghost. 3) That
we receive this, and every other blessing, merely for the sake of Christ.”
Well aware that any concern for holy living was seen by some as “works righteousness,”
Wesley consistently stressed that our human efforts are possible and effective only because they
are preceded and empowered by the Holy Spirit. But he immediately added that the Spirit
invites and expects us to “work out” what God is “working in” us (Phil. 2:12–13). Thus,
while affirming that it is most truly the Spirit who “makes disciples of Jesus Christ,” Wesley
encouraged early Methodists to own their role in responding to Christ’s call to discipleship, in
cultivating their graciously-empowered growth as disciples, in supporting one another on this
journey, and in serving as ambassadors of Christ inviting others into the journey.
2. Shaped by Vital Christian Doctrine
Wesley’s careful articulation of our responsive participation in the journey of discipleship
exemplifies the crucial role of doctrine in the Methodist Way. Much of his leadership of the
movement was devoted to challenging inadequate and distorted conceptions of Christian
teaching that he discerned were contributing to the inadequate (and sometimes perverse) lives
of many Christians. He was equally concerned to articulate positively—for believer and skeptic
alike—the central Christian convictions about the nature of God, the nature of humanity, the
nature of sin and evil, and the scope of God’s salvific mission. Wesley emphasized the role of
pastors as theologians/teachers in interchanges with his fellow Anglican priests, and embodied
that role in his own pastoral work.
The prominence of Wesley’s concern for doctrine has been obscured for some by his sharp criticism
of equating “being Christian” with mere affirmation of correct doctrine. But this was
not a dismissal of doctrine, it was an insistence that Christian teaching is intended to shape the
core convictions and dispositions that guide our choices and actions in the world. Wesley
imbibed this conviction about the formative intent of doctrine from the early Church. Their
precedent also led him to appreciate the most effective means of helping to instill abiding
Christian convictions and dispositions. Sporadic exhortations are not sufficient. We are shaped
most deeply by recurrent practices which engage our whole being. So Wesley made regular
participation in such practices central to the Methodist Way—as specified in the General
Rules. Through regular worship, Scripture study, prayer, and the like, the early Methodists
immersed themselves in the whole of the Christian story and allowed it to form (and reform)
the breadth of their convictions and dispositions. As an aid to this end, Wesley also devoted
much of his pastoral energy to providing rich and balanced practical-theological materials
(hymnals, Bible study guides, etc.) for his people to use in these routine practices.
2
3. Nurtured within a Rich Set of Disciplines
If recognition of the vital role of practices in our appropriation of the transforming work of
the Holy Spirit was central to the Methodist Way; Wesley’s appreciation for the full range of
these practices was its deep wisdom. He often summarized this appreciation in a saying from
the early church: “The soul and the body make a [human], the Spirit and discipline make a
Christian.” “Discipline” is used here, as it is in athletics or music, in the sense of regular
practices that create greater capacity for performance. Significantly, it is directly correlated to
the Spirit—who inspires and meets us in these practices, making them effective “means of
grace.” Just as important in Wesley’s proverbial saying is the reminder that we humans are
holistic creatures, that our actions rarely flow from intellectual motivations alone. As such,
renewal of our sin-distorted convictions and dispositions is most effectively nurtured within a
set of disciplines that address all the dimensions of our nature.
Nothing drew more of Wesley’s attention in shepherding the early Methodist movement than
weaving together such a rich set of “means of grace” as the core of their Way of life.
Alongside standard practices of corporate worship he commended innovative practices such
as the Love Feast and Covenant Service. While prescribing personal devotional reading and
regular immersion in Scripture, he stressed the need for concurrent participation in corporate
settings (“no holiness but social holiness”). Ever conscious of the value of practices that
increase rational understanding of Christian truth, he put special emphasis on complementary
practices where the empowering presence of the Spirit is mediated through touch, and
taste, and tears. He gave particular prominence to the formative power of the faith sung, of
small groups that provide support and accountability, and of regular participation in works
of mercy. Finally, he recognized the crucial role of mentors, of those who are far enough
along in their journey with Christ to be able to say with Paul “follow me, as I follow Christ”
(1 Cor. 11:1).
Renewing the Methodist Way in United Methodist Congregations
Wesley and the early Methodists understood their Way of life not as an attempt to earn
salvation, but as the wisdom drawn from Scripture and the broad Christian tradition about
how to respond to and appropriate God’s gracious transforming work in our lives and our
world. It is a wisdom that we would do well to embody more fully in United Methodist
congregations today.
A first step in this renewal would be to recognize and strengthen those dimensions of the
Methodist Way that continue to define and empower our life together as United Methodists.
We should also celebrate, and adopt more broadly, several programs developed in recent
years that have been making a positive impact in our congregations—like Accountable
Discipleship Groups, Disciple Bible Study, United Methodist Volunteers in Mission, and so
on. But the effectiveness of these existing resources has been limited by the reality that they
often stand alone, or are adopted in haphazard combinations within a congregation’s life.
We need to recover Wesley’s broader vision of the Methodist Way, so that these resources
can find their place within holistic attention to Doctrine, Spirit, and Discipline.
As we recover Wesley’s vision, we can engage a second step in renewal. We desperately need
to identify and reclaim in forms appropriate to our time and settings those dimensions of the
Methodist Way that have been lost over the years due to neglect or abuse. This analysis and
creative retrieval will need to take place at all levels of the church, so that it can take into
account the distinctiveness of our various conferences and congregations. It will also require
pastoral leaders at every level to take seriously their role as teachers and practical theologians,
nurturing and guiding their communities like Wesley did the early Methodists.
3
It must be recognized that there are challenges to face in seeking to renew the Methodist Way
in our congregations. Some of these challenges are features of modern culture, particularly in
North America, such as the lingering romantic assumption that persons are innately provided
with moral character (so no formation is needed), or the now more common assumption of
stringent genetic and cultural determinism (so no transformation is possible). Other challenges
are posed by features in church life, such as the ballooning of administrative and institutional
demands upon bishops, superintendents, and pastors, largely at the expense of their role as
“practical theologians” providing leadership in the formative practices of the community. The
biggest challenge is that we live in a setting permeated by powerful shaping forces for ideals
other than the Christian gospel.
Naming these competing forces and ideals, within the church and the culture, will be a
necessary step in the self-recognition and repentance necessary for renewal in the Methodist
Way. But this must be complimented by wise and effective leadership—both in developing
structures, practices, and patterns of life that embody the alternative ideals of our tradition;
and in discerning those current structures, practices, and patterns of life that must be “let go”
in order to embrace the new.
4
Appendix
As we work together to describe what it means in the twenty first century to live the United
Methodist Way, the following thoughts are offered as a springboard for further conversation.
Characteristics of Congregations Embodying the Methodist Way
A congregation that embodies the wisdom of the Methodist Way broadly in its life and ministry
will be marked by at least these characteristics:
• Commitment to ongoing catechesis and formation in Christian doctrine, with emphasis on
the transforming power and goal of God’s saving work in our lives and world.
• Faithful worship that draws on the rich liturgical resources of the tradition within the cultural
context, inviting participants to celebrate and be shaped by the whole of the Christian
Story into the image of the triune God.
• Regular celebration of Holy Communion and use of other occasional ritual means of grace
such as the Love Feast and the Wesleyan Covenant Service.
• “Watching over one another in love,” through small groups that nurture growth in discipleship
by providing mutual support, mentoring, and accountability.
• Emphasis on cultivating intentional relationships and ministry with those whom Charles
Wesley called “Jesus’ bosom friends”—the poor, the imprisoned, children, the powerless, and
the vulnerable.
• Embrace of Wesley’s model of stewardship as a way of life for individuals and the congregation.
• Support for, and modeling of, regular Bible study, prayer, fasting, and other personal “works
of piety.
• Consistent concern for inviting individuals and families into relationship with Jesus Christ,
combined with wise practices for initiating them into the Body of Christ.
• Attention to identifying and cultivating those gifted to take roles of leadership in the range of
ministry of the congregation.
• Appreciation for connection with other congregations and institutions in participating in
God’s mission of personal, societal, and global transformation.
Role of Bishops in Leading the Renewal of the Methodist Way in United Methodism
As those who are consecrated by the church to provide “temporal and spiritual” oversight of The
United Methodist Church, bishops are uniquely positioned to lead in reclaiming the wisdom of the
Methodist Way in United Methodism in the 21st century. The following are means by which bishops,
individually and collectively, can lead the church in this renewal:
• Reclaim and maximize the role of bishop as spiritual mentor whose life and leadership reflect
and model Wesleyan doctrine, spirit, and discipline.
• Appoint and nurture District Superintendents and Cabinet members as spiritual mentors
whose lives and leadership reflect and model Wesleyan doctrine, spirit, and discipline.
• Give priority to the teaching office of the episcopacy and spend significant time in teaching,
interpreting, and implementing in the programs, structures, and emphases of the Conference
and General Church the doctrines, disciplines, and practices that comprise the United
Methodist Way.
• Develop with other bishops systems of support and accountability for growth in discipleship
as bishops and faithfulness in the fulfillment of episcopal duties.
• Develop and implement systems of evaluation, affirmation, support, accountability, and
deployment that maximize the pastoral roles of “practical theologian,” spiritual mentor, and
effective leader in shaping faithful communities centered on the task of making disciples of
Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world. 5