Christmas Worship

As we make our way to Christmas and the daylight hours become fewer, we long for the light to shine into our lives. We remember and we hope. The moods of this time are a mixture of surprise and assurance. These become part of the great expectations of those who come to worship and give us focus as we plan for our services. What is it that we need to do to allow this to be an authentic celebration of the birth of Christ? With all this in mind Dan Dick’s blog caught my attention.

"If this year is like every other year in recent memory, United Methodist conegations will see a marked increase in attendance on Christmas Eve. The estimates are general, but taken together they provide a striking range: most Protestant churches see somewhere between a 70-200% increase in church attendance on December 24. It is easy to assume that most people attend worship on Christmas Eve because of their faith, but what REALLY brings so many out just one time each year? Here are some reflections from a 2006 survey of once-a-year church attenders in UMCs.

Why do you come to church on Christmas Eve?

family — this is what my family does (tradition) and I want to be with family (30%)
music — I love the Christmas music and want to sing the familiar and favorite songs (22%)
experience — I love the songs, the candles, the story, the feeling (16%)
focus — Christmas has gotten so crazy; I like the clear focus on the reason for the season (12%)
habit — we do this every year (11%)
faith — this is the most special and important event in my faith; I wait all year for this (5%)
other — friends asked me, I got an invitation in the mail, I just decided to, etc. "

more

A Season of Traditions

As Christmas approaches, I have discovered once again how tightly the heart can be bound by tradition. Simplifying Christmas does not come easily when each custom, decoration, ornament, card and recipe tell stories from our past and seems to require continuance lest something important about Christmas at the Osbornes will be lost. So, we find ourselves in the midst of the usual seasonal activity and maybe much of this is especially important this time of great economic uncertainty. Although gift giving is certainly part of our celebration, we have always known it is the thought and not the quantity or cost that matters. We are blessed to be able to tell the Christmas Story through our own traditions and truly know the message of peace, joy, hope and love. May it be so for the days and years to come.

FYI: Ron and I bought this star forty-one years ago for our first Christmas tree.

Let's Walk to the Stable

As we enter into the season of Advent, I am sensing the usual conflict of thoughts and emotions about how we journey to Bethlehem and this Robert Ariail cartoon doesn't help. However, perhaps this state of mind might be the way it should be as it offers an opportunity for important reflection and introspection. Maybe the preparation becomes more purposeful. For this I often seek wisdom not only in scripture, but also in the thought provoking words of others. Last evening my sister introduced me to these lyrics of the hymn, Like a Child, by Daniel Charles Damon.

Like a child love would send to reveal and to mend,

like a child and a friend, Jesus comes.

Like a child we may find claiming heart, soul, and mind,

like a child strong and kind, Jesus comes.

Like a child we will meet, ragged clothes, dirty feet,

like a child on the street, Jesus comes.

Like a child we once knew coming back into view,

like a child born anew, Jesus comes.

Like a child born to pray and to show us the way,

like a child here to stay, Jesus comes.

Like a child we receive all that love can concieve,

like a child we believe, Jesus comes.

#2092 The Faith We Sing

Thanks, Mary!

Three Cups of Tea

Once in awhile, I read a book that captures my attention long after the last page is read. Such has been Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin. This real life story of a former mountaineer turned humanitarian working to build schools in Pakistan and Afghanistan offers words of promise to the human spirit. Through amazing trials and circumstances, Mortenson has been able to offer education – especially to girls – as a way to promote peace in this impoverished and war-torn part of the world. How has he accomplished what might seem an impossible task? As advised by his mentor, Haji Ali, he learned to take time to share three cups of tea as the way to do business. “The first time you share tea with a Balti, you are a stranger. The second time you take tea, you become family, and for our family, we are prepared to do anything, even die.” Mortenson learned “to slow down and make building relationships as important as building projects.”

This book not only tells a fascinating story, but also provides insight into the geography and culture of this region, plus an understanding of the Taliban. It is on the 2009 UMW Reading Program List and is available in our church library as an audio book. I recommend that others add this to their want-to-read list and then sit down with a cup of tea and enjoy this story of a real life hero.

God Has Big Ears!

Our five-year-old granddaughter, Annaka, is asking a lot of faith questions these days according to her mother. “How can God hear everyone’s prayers?” “Why can’t we see God?” Since parent answers don’t always satisfy her curiosity, she has discovered that she has to sometimes figure them out for herself. She has decided that since God hears all our prayers, God must have big ears and thus does not want to be seen. What great wisdom!

I am glad that she realizes that God listens to little girls and maybe everything doesn’t have to be seen to be believed.

Trivia

I have an interest in words that all at once become part of our everyday vocabulary. During our recent political campaigns, we frequently heard the word vet or vetted. I understand its meaning, but what about its origin? As has become a common practice, I went to Google for the answer. According to Wikipedia, “to vet was orginally a horse-racing term, referring to the requirement that a horse be checked for health and soundness by a veterinarian before being allowed to race. Thus, it has taken the general meaning ‘to check’”. Perhaps, we can now retire paradigm or paradigm shift, a too frequently used buzzword, as vet and deflation are today’s words. However, this might be a disconnect for some.

Board of Ministry Days

For three days this week I was immersed in the work of the Conference Board of Ministry at the White Oak Retreat Center near Winnsboro. Although I have previously reflected on our meetings, they continue to generate some fresh thoughts. As we discussed important aspects of ministry with candidates for ordination as deacons and elders, I was most impressed with how many of them have grown significantly through their probationary period and already have effective ministries. A male colleague commented on how impressed he was with many of the women who wrote and spoke so very well. This was a great acknowledgement of what is being proven in many churches across our denomination. However, there were several times when we had to tell candidates, both male and female, that we found their papers and interviews to be lacking in clear understanding of what it means to be an effective minister. This is always painful and leaves me wondering why this happens. It often seems that perhaps the absence of honest and forthright guidance by pastors, congregations, district boards of ministries, mentors, seminary professors and even family and friends allows the candidate to assume that they will eventually be ordained. Perhaps the candidate’s call to ministry has been misunderstood and is to be fulfilled from the pew rather that the pulpit. Those of us who walk with these candidates have a great responsibility to light the way, not just pass judgment after years of preparation. It would seem that these thoughts could also apply to many family, church, school and work relationships.

Children's Advocacy

Tomorrow at First UMC is Children’s Sabbath. Although often interpreted to mean some sort of Children’s Day program, the intent of it is to recognize our role as advocate for all children and to remind us to share God’s love by meeting their needs each day. The following statistics provided by the Children’s Defense Fund are a call to take notice of what is happening to our children. What am I doing to change these numbers?


Moments in America for Children
March 2008

-Every second a public school student is suspended.*
-Every 10 seconds a high school student drops out.*
-Every 17 seconds a public school student is corporally punished.*
-Every 25 seconds a child is arrested.
-Every 35 seconds a baby is born into poverty.
-Every 36 seconds a child is confirmed as abused or neglected.
-Every 41 seconds a baby is born without health insurance.
-Every minute a baby is born to a teen mother.
-Every 2 minutes a baby is born at low birthweight.
-Every 5 minutes a child is arrested for a drug offense.
-Every 9 minutes a child is arrested for a violent crime.
-Every 18 minutes a baby dies before his first birthday.
-Every 3 hours a child or teen is killed by a firearm.
-Every 5 hours a child or teen commits suicide.
-Every 6 hours a child is killed by abuse or neglect.
-Every 14 hours a woman dies from complications of childbirth or pregnancy.

* Based on calculations per school day (180 days of seven hours each)

Election Eve

On the eve of Election Day, Kathy James offers a most appropriate prayer. She reminds us that it is not only what happens tomorrow that is important, but also how we live into the following days.

A trip update - We are back in Albuquerque and will return to Myrtle Beach tomorrow to await the election returns.

A Rainbow Connection

What could have been a miserable rainy experience turned out to be a beautiful time spent in Canyonlands National Park. On three different occasions we saw magnificent full rainbows arch over the canyons. How breathtaking! My personal photographer captured this picture of a double rainbow for a lasting memory of our wonderful Southwestern experience.

"I have set my bow in the clouds, and it shall be a sign of the covenant between me and the earth." Genesis 9: 13

A Mountain Top Experience

I have always enjoyed traveling by train, especially the scenic rail excursions, and have dreamed of riding the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad for a long time. Yesterday, I got to do this and can only say it was a mountain top experience in the truest sense. Not only the awesome views along the way, but also the slow swaying motion of the train allowed for a special time of connection to God’s Earth with my innermost being. What a magnificent day!

For more pictures of our travels, see Ron’s blog.

A Different Perspective

After a few days in Albuquerque for my Christian Educator’s Fellowship Conference, Ron and I rented a car and headed to points beyond for some vacation time. After looking up at the surrounding mountains for nearly a week, one of our first stops was Sandia Crest, a mile above Albuquerque. What a different perspective! This could be said for much of the conference.

As I walked the streets of Albuquerque, the confluence of Hispanic, American Indian and Anglo cultures was very evident. What was different was that I was in the minority. This is something to think about as we as a nation are experiencing this major culture shift and learning to live into this new national face with peace and justice. As I learn more about New Mexico, I realize the church has been a major contributor to shaping its social history. Sometimes this has been for the better and sometimes not.

The message from worship to workshops at the CEF Conference seemed to be to look at one’s ministry with a different perspective. Native Americans called us to enter into prayer as they shared their own form of prayer in song and dance. We joined our voices in a powerful litany that reflected the Native American vision of the Seventh Generation (decisions made today must consider those of the seventh generation of the future) as we convened. Thinking and acting beyond what makes an impact on me today certainly is a different perspective.

Marjorie Thompson, noted spirituality author and speaker, reminded us as Sabbath workers to take time to be instead of always being concerned about what we are getting done. Bill McKibben, Ron’s environmental hero, forcefully and faithfully challenged us to take care of God’s creation. My workshop experiences examined how we live together in community and often noted that we fail to honor the gifts of those we welcome into our churches. Our main objective seems to be to shape these folks into our personal interpretation of Christianity instead of allowing the church to be strengthened by new gifts. These voices of different perspectives have given me much to ponder in the days ahead.

William's Bear

Prior to leaving Myrtle Beach, William’s bear came to visit us. William, our grandson, is in kindergarten and is participating in a “Flat Stanley” type project. Therefore, William’s bear is traveling with us on this trip. He has enjoyed Albuquerque, especially the Old Town area. But, he did try to sit on a cactus and has been standing instead of sitting ever since. This project has been good for these grandparents, also. We have often looked at the sights through the eyes of a child and been able to know the simple joy of new experiences.

Mid-Life Crisis?

Lest anyone think that I am only playing in Albuquerque, let me assure all that I am also using this as a time to do some focused study about several ministry matters that concern me. Of course, worship and fellowship are also important part of this event.

Recently, I have noticed that we have a number of middle-aged members at First UMC who are nearly invisible. These are persons that I formally saw regularly. Excuses heard about this include: they are empty-nesters, some have aging parent issues with which to cope, others are in stressful careers and a few are facing major health issues. In a workshop, “In the Middle of the Journey”, I learned that many congregations are waking up to the reality that these members are doing what is named as defecting in place. Why?

Perhaps, this fading away relates to the place mid-life members find themselves to be in the church. They are called to be the doers. They are the teachers and leaders of others with little support for their own need of finding balance in a complex world. They find their “third place” – another term that I learned – after home and work to be a civic club, a gym, an activity etc.

Interesting facts of this age group include:
-comprise about 40% of U.S. population,
-about two-thirds are overweight,
-are the nation’s biggest spenders and debtors, and
-greatest common denominator among issues is the death of a parent.

The discussion was not on what programs might be needed, but how we could live our life together so that the mid-life members might not feel used, but supported. I think there should be similar conversation at First UMC as we seek to be in ministry with all of our members.

A Visit to a Museum

When we travel Ron and I enjoy visiting museums, especially those that represent the area we are visiting. We have found these to be wonderful time capsules of the local culture whether they have large or small collections. They usually capture the character and heritage of the city or community and are both educational and fun. Yesterday, we explored the Albuquerque Museum located in the Old Town area. Surrounded by a wonderful sculpture garden, this museum has a variety of displays including contemporary to classic art, a school, and a large history gallery. We especially enjoyed some of the unique art of local artisans and the Four Centuries History Galleries where the history of Albuquerque and this region was well told through storyboards, pictures and artifacts. We certainly feel that we better understand the people of this area and are glad that we spent several hours wandering through these displays both inside and outside.

Institutions such as museums, libraries and parks usually have to operate on carefully managed budgets. I hope this current national economic downturn does not jeopardize the existence of such places and that future generations will be able to enjoy and learn from them.

Albuquerque

Ron and I are in Albuquerque for a few days attending the National Christian Educator's Fellowship Conference and then we will be sightseeing for another week in Santa Fe etc.. Even though I plan to use this as a time for rest and relaxation, I cannot escape the realities of this important political season. Jim Wallis's current blog about "faith priorities" is certainly worth a read.

By the way, I am already feeling my soul being blessed by the glorious blue skies and the magnificent sunsets. Maybe tomorrow I will check-out a sunrise.

Let Wisdom Guide

This week I discovered that GBOD Research and News and Views by Dan Dick has some very interesting information and thought for our congregations. Dick has been analyzing and writing about what is happening in our churches for a number of years and offering insight as to what effective structures, leadership and processes might look like. Topics found in his posts include: mega-church, blaphemediocrity, ecumenism and environment. I have added it to my blog reader.

The trials and traumas of working my way though reading papers for candidates seeking ordination have occupied my late nights earlier this week. My friend, Stephen Taylor, is writing about this and I recommend his blog for good insight about the process. In addition to papers answering disciplinary questions, the Call and Disciplined Life Committee which I chair must review issues of health, credit, academics, psycological tests, recommendations and security checks. I spent four hours on Friday in Columbia making sure all is in order for our November meeting with the candidates at White Oak. These multiple pieces of paper can be very revealing about whether candidates are ready for effective ministry. Mainly, there will be questions asked about excessive debt and weight and careful responses given to help the candidates understand why their answers are important.

The fall meeting of the Spartanburg Methodist College trustees was Thursday and our focus was whether we stay the course with our strategic plan or modify in light of the economy and other factors. Basically, we decided to proceed as planned. I never fail to be impressed by the dedication and commitment of other trustees, staff and President Teague. Many challeges face us as we try to fulfill the historic mission of this college.

I think that it is interesting to note that I am working on a sermon for Monday night about wisdom – James 1:5. Perhaps, this is the word I need to hear at this time as I walk through some of the before mentioned matters.

I Voted!

Because we will be out of town on Election Day, Ron and I journeyed to Conway yesterday to vote. I always enjoy the opportunity to walk around this historic and picturesque town and have lunch in one of her good restaurants. This time we voted for The Trestle. In this setting it was easy to think about those who have protected our democracy by conscientiously casting their ballot in years gone by. Or, maybe it was because we recently watched John Adams, the wonderful HBO series, that I felt I was fulfilling a mandate given to all US citizens and I wasn’t going to drop the ball.

Our presidential candidates have talked much about the conversation that is happening around the kitchen tables in homes across the country. I hope this serves as a reminder to many families to have these intentional and thoughtful times. Experts on family life indicate that this is happening infrequently and the communication of values and ethics from one generation to the next is lacking. I know that this is the setting in which I learned much about my responsibility to vote. Let’s recall these times for our families and our country.

Elderspeak

I didn’t know the term elderspeak, but I have certainly heard it and intuitively known that it was often demeaning. Years ago, when visiting my grandmother in a nursing home, I was appalled at the caregivers using such terms as sweetie and dear and addressing her by her first name. This was not who she was to the rest of the world. As a well-respected person within her community in that era, she was known as Mrs. Owens. She didn’t complain, but I often wondered what she thought of this familiar practice. During my years with the Council of Aging and later in my ministry, I have often encountered elderspeak and still had that sense that it was not appropriate. According to The New York Times, this practice can actually be harmful to our elderly. I hope its message is widely circulated not only among those who care for the elderly, but also throughout our society. Our elderly deserve a sense of respect. It is the healthy thing to do.

Adult Christian Education

I am in the midst of preparing for several different presentations and as always I am enjoying that process. However, trying to focus on a variety of topics at one time has my head spinning. My mind wanders from one to another in a disjointed manner and I have difficulty feeling prepared for any of them. But, this does lead me to the larger picture of adult Christian education and its importance to the church.

Constant review of what we are doing in adult Christian education seems to be imperative if we want to strengthen our faith in a healthy way. It seems that we should be asking-
-Who is teaching/leading our classes and studies? Who else needs to be part of this ministry?
-What is the curriculum? What is really being taught?
-Why do we offer these opportunities? Why should we be concerned about this?
-When do we have these learning opportunities? When might we have them?
-Where is God in all of this? Where are our deficits?
-How do we make needed changes to fulfill this important responsibility of our congregation?

Of course, I need to be part of this Q&A and have to wonder if I am giving enough attention to these matters. As I attend the National Christian Educator's Fellowship Conference in the near future, I hope not only to gain personal insights, but also ones for First Church, Lots to think about in the days ahead.

An Eventful Week

After a week of the unnerving Wall Street disaster and an uneventful presidential debate that went nowhere, I learn that Paul Newman has died. What a news filled week! I may not be able to offer great insight to any of these events, but I can say that I have long admired Paul Newman, the actor and the person, and his passing saddens me. From Butch Cassidy to Fast Eddie and other memorable roles, he provided us some wonderful entertainment through the years. But, in recent years I have had great respect for his humanitarian efforts, also. Not only did he use his fame to bring attention to issues that were important to him (and us), but also he used his resources to support them. Most of us can’t begin to understand the intricacies of our national financial dilemma or comprehend what is really being said in this political season, but we can each name those things that we know to be important to our society and do something about them using whatever resources that we might have. Paul Newman did and so can we. This is probably the most hopeful word of this week.

Condemn or Create

Leonard Sweet is gifted at interpreting contemporary culture and how it influences the life of the church. Of course, he often rephrases these comments to question why the church does not do more to shape culture. After one more of those frustrating conversations with a church member about what the church needs to consider in its offerings to its members and the world beyond, I remembered these words of Leonard Sweet:

“…the church has four options when it comes to engaging culture: ignore it,imitate it, condemn it, or create it…”
…If the church ignores the culture, the culture will ignore the church.
…If we don’t shape the culture, the culture will shape us.
…If the church condemns the culture, the culture will condemn the church.
…If we’re serious about fulfilling the Great Commission and incarnating the gospel, we can engage culture by creating culture.
…the culture will treat the church the way the church treats the culture. And we’re not called to condemn. We’re called to redeem.”

The Church of the Perfect Storm p, 114

Think about it and and consider how we might act accordingly.

Wednesday Night Fellowship

In recent years, many churches have reclaimed Wednesday night as a church night. But instead of worship as in the past, the focus is meal, Bible studies, choir practices and activities for all ages. First Church has shaped such a program for eight or nine years with varying levels of participation. Each year we survey, analyze, change and pray as plans are made to create a program that meets the greatest number of needs. It should also be noted that we have to carefully consider space when making decisions about what we will offer. Providing a good meal at a reasonable price is becoming an increasing challenge. All of this is to say, lots of thought is behind what we offer each week. However, Wednesday Night Fellowship is not what many persons envision and this provides a major dilemma for me as my name is attached to it. The only solace in this situation is that many of my peers in other churches are facing the same declining interest in this kind of program. One size does not fit all. Perhaps the season for this type of experience has passed. The most frequent comments I hear involve that family schedules cannot be stretched to include several hours at our North Campus on Wednesday night. There are also mileage and food cost considerations. Perhaps we are not considering the realities of 2008 in our planning. How important is this major focus to growing faithful disciples?

West Virginia By-ways

John Wesley Methodist Church in Lewisburg, WVA. Built in 1820 of hand-made brick. It is in "meeting-house" style with interior gallery.






Since 1983 we have traveled I-77 at least once a year as part of our pilgrimage to Ohio. Fortunately, the road conditions have improved over the years and the travel time has decreased. We have also developed a list of favorite rest stops along the way and know just how long it takes to get from one landmark to the next. Over the years we have explored some of the interesting places nearby this route and have discovered some wonderful examples of American history and culture especially in West Virginia. We have traveled the Coal Trail through West Virginia and been to places like Thurmond, Bramhall and Hinton. The New River Bridge and Gorge is spectacular and the state parks display the majesty of God’s creation. Today, we found another gem by taking I-64 at Beckley to Lewisburg. As we walked the streets of the historic district, we found interesting samples architectural charm, a delightful variety of shops and quality restaurants. The surrounding countryside is dotted with cattle, sheep and horses and their owners have some beautiful old homes and barns. These ventures remind me how important it is not to be so focused on our destinations that we don’t take side trips along the way. They can be an important part of the journey.

An Ohio Visit

We are enjoying a hint of fall this week while visiting family in Ohio. Cool weather, lack of rain, maturing crops, presidential politics and Ohio State football dominate the conversation. However, as usual, it is the memories of times past that surround me and lead me into realizing how family and community have shaped me.

However, it is my parents that are the focus of our visit as they are elderly and have health issues. Fortunately, they have a very supportive network that lets them live in their home, the one where my dad was born and the one they have shared for sixty–four years. With the approach of winter, all are wondering if they can maintain this living arrangement. We join many, many other families striving to do the right thing and I have decided that each one has to chart its own course. There seem to be few easy answers and the ones that we feel good about only come through family conversation and prayerful consideration. Long-distance care-giving is not an easy task.

T.S. Hanna

Weather reports have trumped political news these past few days in Myrtle Beach. This morning Hanna has moved on leaving little damage and 4-5 inches of rainfall. For this we give thanks. However, I am left thinking of all sorts of comparisons that could be made between hurricanes and presidential elections, but I will let readers have their own fun with this mental exercise.

Human reaction to potential storms is interesting to observe. From panic to complete dismissal, strangers become neighbors as they gather to offer personal thoughts and insights. A strong sense of community develops. Whether needed or not, for some persons it means a frantic trip to the grocery store and for others it is time to put up the plywood that they have stored for such occasions. A friend told me about a local psychic that had taken down her sign and boarded the windows. I did wonder what she knew that the rest of us might not know. There are others who at their own peril must be out exploring what is happening. Our new local TV station has been totally energized by this weather story and has made every effort to make this a significant event. Of course, I believe that we are to heed warnings and use wisdom is making decisions about our personal safety, However, I think prayer rather than tea leaves is more effective in my discernment process.

Struggling

I know that the first step in dealing with matters that pull and tug at my innermost being is to admit and name them. So the time has come for me to say that during this past year I have been struggling with the onset of familial tremors in my right hand. In the whole scope of health issues, which I could experience, this would be noted as minor. However, I have never really had to cope with physical issues as I have only had the types that are rather easily remedied. This makes this condition harder for me to accept. Also, this one is here to stay. The greatest physical difficulty, which I am experiencing, is with my handwriting. I am very frustrated that I cannot write personal letters and jot quick notes to others or myself. Of course, I am overly self-conscious of my trembling hand and wish that I could accept it with more grace. I can still use my computer and knit, but even these aren’t done as easily as they once were. Unfortunately, my children and grandchildren have probably inherited this gene and may also experience the vexation of such tremors. My sharing of this personal struggle is not a request for sympathy, but as a way to live with it without letting it be so embarrassing and demoralizing. Somewhere there is a gift to be claimed in this.

This part of my journey certainly has given me greater insight to the physical challenges of many persons whom I encounter daily. I no longer easily dismiss their anger and wounded souls and more fully realize that to feel our feeling is a necessary part of restoring our wholeness. Scripture reveals time and again that God knows our feelings and understands. I may not be cured of this thorn, but I may be healed so as not to know the bondage of this tremor. This is my prayer.

Psalm 100

I admit that I have been sidetracked in my blogging by Wordle. I have found it to be an interesting and insightful way to look at familiar passages of scripture. I invite you to reflect on this version of Psalm 100. It is also interesting to scrutinize politican's speeches in this way.

Why I Blog

I have discovered that blogging can be a true spiritual discipline. It can help me to concentrate and to get in touch with my heart. This focusing on experiences and processing on the accompanying emotions leads to important reflection on significant events in my life. Often writing about it can redeem a difficult and frustrating day. I claim what I have lived and make it part of my journey. It becomes lifesaving and sometimes good for others who might read what I write.

Thank you to those who keep encouraging me to find the inner places that I hardly know that are there and to discover spiritual answers to the questions that keep being asked. There are hidden treasures to be found when I allow new thoughts to emerge when writing or blogging. The realization that Jesus walks with me and speaks to me on the journey becomes even more real. What a blessing!

Wordle

Through Internet reading, I discover all sorts of interesting trivia and ways to think about life in new ways. Larry Hollen introduced me to Wordle, an online program that creates a word cloud from text provided. I ran Wordle on my blog site and got this word cloud. (Click on this image for an enlargement.) I think this was created from recent blogs only. However, it is interesting to see what subjects and phrases that I use frequently. This kind of overview of our use of words could give us useful insight into the word pictures we create for others to see.

School Days

These are exciting days for children as they begin a new school year and an important transition time for their families. For the first time in many years, we personally sense the significance of what these days mean as our two oldest grandchildren are beginning kindergarten. Although we rejoice in this occasion, we know some of the challenges they will face and instinctively want to keep them under our watchful eye a little longer. Prayers for protection take on a new urgency and parenting/grandparenting issues change. May we all know God’s love and grace as we move through this time.

Metaphors

As I write a sermon for our Monday evening worship the rich imagery presented in Scripture once again ignites the power of the Word for me and puts it in the present. It is the images, the stories and the poetry of Scripture that reveal God’s holiness again and again. Jesus is the greatest master of metaphor. In his metaphors lies metamorphosis. In other words, through the language of metaphors we find truth and meaning in our faith. It is said that the metaphors we live in become the reality we live out. Images and imagination are imperative to revealing that which is sacred. So be it as I struggle with this sermon.

A New Sunday School Year

I can’t believe that it is time for a new Sunday school year to begin. The tasks are many to make this a good experience for all. Tara and Melanie have been working for weeks calling forth teachers for our children and making sure that we have volunteers in place so that these teachers can meet this week during the Sunday school hour to prepare for the weeks ahead. Our new graded curriculum has arrived. Rock Solid is the official resource for The United Methodist Church and published by Cokesbury. In addition, we need to make sure that our Safe Sanctuary Policy is being followed and that our classes are neat, clean, well-supplied and attractive. Finally, we have to extend a special invitation to all. Similar efforts are being made for youth and adult classes. We are blessed to have many folks willing to support our educational ministry. The challenge is to help others understand the importance of it not only for them, but also for the church. Research indicates Sunday schools continue to be an important cornerstone for healthy churches and I want to make sure that we remember this.

In addition, it is time for other Bible study and spiritual formation groups to form. We have some very good teachers who are willing to lead these groups so all we need are some persons willing to make a commitment to what can be a life changing experience. I continue to ponder how I can best help adults to know that this is a faithful use of time.

All of this is to say, I am feeling renewed and re-energized about the role of Christian education in the life of our church. I just need to follow the scope and sequence of what God needs be to be doing.

Upside Down is Better

Recently, I have noticed that a lot of products are being packaged in upside down containers. Catsup, shampoo, hand lotion and various other items can now be stored on their tops so that the contents are easily dispensed. Instead of the frustration of squeezing and tapping these containers, we are readily rewarded with a splash, dash or glob. After years of battling jars, bottles and tubes, one has to wonder why someone hadn’t thought of this sooner. Such are many things in our lives. We have always done it this or that way and never consider making a change in how we do things. Then a sudden realization that upside down can be much more productive and we create a new normal in our lives. Such is Christianity for many of us. This kind of upside down living is what Christ models for us and only when we embrace it do we know the fullness of life.

8-8-08

To the Chinese today's date is one of luck, but to many of us we hear the Beatles singing “Eight Days a Week” in our mind. Numerological significance is important in many realms of understanding. However, for me today means:

• I no longer will be able to watch WIS-TV and know what is happening in the Midlands.
  
• It is my catch-up day and will finish some of the tasks that have been on my “to-do” list all week.
  
• I plan to have a date with my husband this afternoon and see “Mama Mia”.
  
• Tonight, I will join millions of others in watching the extravaganza from Beijing and try not to be too cynical about it all.
  
• And, I will , just in case there is something to this “lucky eight” thing, I think I will start a challenging knitting project that I have been hesitant to begin.
  

A Busy Week

My week has been so rich and full with family, church activities, etc. Therefore, one would assume that I would have much to inspire me for a blog post. But, sometimes in the moment is not the best time to reflect and understand the value of such busy times. With intentional consideration, I am sure I will be able to gain a fuller meaning of these days as I walk into the future.

Obviously, the joy of grandchildren was a highlight of my week. Annaka, William, Jack and Ethan-each with their own unique personality – love the beach and when the invitation to join my sister’s and brother’s families at Sunset Beach was extended, they were there. How great it was to connect with everyone!

This family time paired with lots of time with church family allows me to know that I stand in a circle of love. Whether holding hands with grandchildren as we jump into the waves or worshiping and working with church family, I know that God is ever present and for that I give thanks.

Ironing

Ironing is probably at the top of my list of least enjoyed domestic chores. Maybe it is because I am part of a generation that still had to put that on our weekly schedule in the past. I ironed six white shirts each week for Ron and other items for me for many years. (It is with great joy that I know that my sons do most of their own ironing.) Although it is now an occasional activity for me, I still have certain standards. Linen blouses and tablecloths must be dampened, put in a plastic bag and placed in the refrigerator for at least several hours. Then sprayed with a liberal amount of starch, I iron each item carefully. I have come to realize that there is satisfaction in participating in a ritual that produces a crisp, wrinkle-free item or garment.

Rituals are times of focus. For me, as I iron a garment, I try to achieve perfection by making sure there is not a wrinkle to be seen. Realizing that this won’t happen without careful preparation, I give intentional thought to this process. I remember days gone by when I practiced this skill as a young girl by ironing dishtowels and pillowcases. It becomes apparent that when we include rituals in our lives we enjoy a sense of comfort and security. We celebrate who we are and understand how important rituals are to our identity. So it is as we claim our Christian faith. What rituals do we need to include in our lives as we seek greater understanding of our discipleship?

Farewell, Laura

This week our congregation has been saying good-bye to Laura, our Duke Divinity School intern. It is amazing how she has become such a part of us in just ten short weeks and how saddened we are for her to leave. She has been an extraordinary extra set of eyes, ears and hands as we have been in ministry together. We are in awe of her abilities and have learned from her insightful and caring observations of people and situations. Blessings, Laura, as you pursue what God has called you to do.

Of course, Laura’s call to ordination as a deacon has been a joy to me. She is not only pursuing a Master of Divinity degree, but also a doctorate in psychology and plans to counsel clergy and congregations as they face challenging situations. She has a clear understanding of the role of a deacon and has been able to assist our congregation grasp what this means in the life of the church. Participating in the field education experience of a seminary student has once again proved to be a valuable experience for all involved. We look forward to our intern next summer and all the gifts that he or she will bring as it gives us an opportunity not only to be a teacher, but also a learner of what effective ministry might look like.

A New Computer

Recently, after numerous aggravations with my laptop computer, I faced the fact that I needed a new computer. This made my personal shopper, Ron, very happy as this meant he had a research project. What did I need? What would be a good price? Finally, the purchase was made yesterday and I am now happily using my new HP Pavilion. However, I wonder why having this computer is a necessity? We have a desktop computer and I have a computer at the church. Of course, this means Ron and I don’t have to share. It also means I can take my work with me wherever I go. I think that I have bought more than a computer. I have bought into some of our cultural ills…consumption of stuff and workaholic practices.

A Bucket List

I recently saw the movie, The Bucket List, starring Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman and have been thinking about it ever since. Truly, I have been reflecting more on the idea of a bucket list than this enjoyable movie. The lead characters, each terminally ill, purposely set out to live their bucket list, a wish list of things to do before dying. Of course, I have had to ask myself about what my bucket list might include. To date, I have not been too creative, but have started this list:

• see the Grand Canyon,
• be a co-creator of a well-loved yard,
• observe Sabbath faithfully,
• have a loving, caring relationship with my grandchildren.
  

What might you include on your bucket list?

Another TED Talk

As noted previously, TED talks provide a wonderful opportunity to hear a variety of today's voices share thoughts and wisdom that can have a signifiicant impact on our lives. Wofford students and alumni should be quite proud of President Ben Dunlap's presentation, The Story of a Passionate Life. I invite you to listen to it.

What You Doing?

When we talk with our grandchildren via Skype, Annaka usually asks “what you doin’? Sometimes the answer isn’t easy to give in the vocabulary of a five year old. When my sister asked me that same question last night I also found myself unable to articulate exactly what I have been doing. Perhaps I have the misconception that the answers should be exciting and enviable words. Anyway, during these lazy, hazy days of summer this is what I am doing:

- finally have started reading Suite Francaise,
- still finding peace in knitting prayer shawls,
- planning congregational learning opportunities beginning in September,
- putting the finishing touches on Dancing with God,
- enjoying my responsibilities with our Duke intern,
- attending to some Board of Ministry matters,
- enjoying some time with grandchildren and
- having a little renewing time at the beach.

Thank God for July.

Fourth of July

Our Fourth of July was enjoyed at home doing a few little housekeeping projects, preparing some traditional holiday food and attacking the to-read stack of books and magazines. With the darkness of night, fireworks lighted the neighborhood sky and we walked the streets to experience their beauty and sounds. What a great way to appreciate the freedom we have to make choices as to how we spend all of our days.

In honor of the day, I once again read some of American Gospel by Jon Meacham. It is one of a number of very interesting books that have been written in recent years about those who are known as the heroes of the American Revolution. The incredible stories of these Founding Fathers have given me a greater appreciation of their commitment to and understanding of human rights. Meacham reminds us that “faith and freedom were inextricably linked from the beginning.” Belief in God was central to the making of this nation, yet faith was a matter of choice. The issues that surround this basic tenet have almost continuously been a source of debate and sometimes misinterpretation. It would seem that in this presidential election year, it would be important for us to untangle the web of misconception about church and state by studying our past and learning what it really means to us today.

Three Years

I failed to note recently that I have now been a blogger for three years and this is my 530th post. As I review the variety of topics explored, it interests me what I have chosen to use and not use. Obviously, personal relationships are important to me as is my ministry. Life's journey takes many twists and turns, but intentionally claiming it as a walk with God is my focus. My passion for social justice emerges from time to time, but never as much as it should. The intent of this blog is to share some of what I am thinking and reading and to encourage conversation about some of them. I have discovered that having others share my pilgrimage in this blog helps me find my way. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Computer Brain

The land of blogs takes me at times to some interesting and inviting places. Such was the case today when I read Larry Hollen’s comments about a recent article in The Atlantic Monthly. I had to follow the link to it and read for myself about what the Internet is doing to our brains. I really think there may be some truth in it when I think about my own current scattered reading habits. I just thought it was a matter of aging. Also, I have found that I have to compose my thoughts on a keyboard versus the once favored yellow tablet. Apparently as we increasingly use a computer a different kind of thinking process is beginning to shape us and one wonders where this is leading us. The author, Nicholas Carr theorizes that “as we come to rely on computers to mediate our understanding of the world, it is our own intelligence that flattens into artificial intelligence.” Being of a generation that values reading, I tend to agree with this observation included within the article:

“In the quiet spaces opened up by the sustained, undistracted reading of a book, or by any other act of contemplation, for that matter, we make our own associations, draw our own inferences and analogies, foster our own ideas. Deep reading, as Maryanne Wolf argues, is indistinguishable from deep thinking.

If we lose those quiet spaces…we will sacrifice something important not only in our- selves but in our culture.”

Personally, I trust that we can find a way to use both deep reading and Google power to shape our thoughts. I will be interested in what others think.

Vacation Bible School - 2008

This is Vacation Bible School Week at First UMC. As usual, it is a special time for all who participate and it is wonderful to see the number of families that are present. We have a great group of volunteers who provide the leadership and are committed to making this a good experience for all. Once again I observe that this is a model of congregational leadership that we should follow more often in the life together. First, the core leaders seem to listen carefully to the needs of the people and tell the story within that context. Such as, having an evening event for all ages with a meal is our format. They study the curriculum and make sure the key points are truly the focus of learning and work collaboratively to call forth each volunteer’s gifts as they plan each year’s VBS. The director serves one year and the assistant becomes the director the following year. The retiring director serves as an advisor.

Our leaders know the value of good communication. From publicity to instructions, we all know what’s happening. Once again we have a number of persons from the community including several families who are vacationing in Myrtle Beach. Over the years, VBS has been the introductory visit for quite a few new members. Careful evaluation means some tweaking for the next year. I especially appreciate being able to fulfill the role as spiritual leader and to empower those who share their leadership gifts so generously. How can we duplicate this healthy pattern for successful ministry in other areas of our congregational life?

Remembering

As noted previously, Wendell Berry’s prose and poetry speak to my soul. So, when Amazon told me that I might like to purchase another of his books from them, I couldn’t resist. Remembering is the account of one of Port William’s members, Andy Catlett, as he spends a long day in San Francisco 'remembering' his life and experiences. The loss of a hand to a corn picker has led him into a dark time. Depressed by the state of farming as defined by agribusiness terms and the deterioration of community, Andy begins to reclaim his identity through his memories of people, places and events of the past. I especially enjoyed his encounter with the Ohio State educated farmer followed by his visit with an Amish farmer. Remembering my own connection to farming and community added to my appreciation of this beautifully written book. However, it is worth reading by all who are seeking to know the value of place in their lives.

Tim Russert

It has been a week since I first saw the shocking news that Tim Russert had died. Like many, many people I sensed a personal loss and watched with great interest as a public time of mourning unfolded. As a news junkie, I looked forward to Tim’s take on the political scene. He seemed to ask the questions that I wanted answered and did so in a civil manner. Delightfully, he was more than a political reporter. He was a husband, father, son, friend and a faithful Catholic who revealed his humanity to us. Tim demonstrated again and again that he remembered who he was in an honest and forthright manner. Because he shared these parts of his life with us, it hurt our hearts when he passed and we realized that he would no longer appear on our television screens to express his insights about our political world. His exuberant joy about all that was his life was contagious and helped us remember who we are. What a legacy!

Although I have given Tim Russert’s death much thought during this past week as the many words of eulogy poured forth, it was his apparent failure to fully take care of his health that really caught my attention. Medication does not take the place of healthy habits of eating, exercising and resting. Like Tim and others, I am always going to make sure I do that tomorrow. Since I want to know tomorrow, I better get serious about these things.

Food for Thought

Food has become a subject of headlines and we who have never given much thought to the complexity of this topic are beginning to understand the ethics of eating. As such issues of hunger, health, environment, justice, and globalization come to the table with us, we are now hearing the call to claim a theology of eating. This certainly could be the focus of many blog postings, so I offer this thought from author and theologian, Joan Chittister, as a beginning point:

“Food connects us to nature, to ourselves, to the future. It must never be taken lightly. Everything we eat is either developing us or destroying us. When we chose what we eat, it is an act of creation second only to the conception of life.”

Annual Conference 2008

With the theme “Dare to Change the World”, South Carolina Methodists met in Florence for our Annual Conference this past week. Bishop Taylor led us in worship and business as we sought to chart our course into the future. Although there were no headline grabbing agenda items, the challenge for us to be faithful in and through our ministries was certainly put before us. Changing the world begins with expressions of grace – love, mercy, justice and peace. The traditional opening hymn for Annual Conference is Charles Wesley’s “And Are we Yet Alive”. I often think that we should use it as our closing hymn to evaluate our time spent together.

An Old Friend

The Class of ’63 is planning a reunion. That means we are searching the Internet and other sources for classmate addresses and contacting one another in the hope of reconnecting. I will not be able to attend this event as it is VBS week at First Church. However, this past weekend I was able to experience a little bit of what will be a special time for those who will be present. Chuck Ritenour, who I have known since 4th grade, sailed up the Intracoastal Waterway for a visit. Currently, he is living on his boat and is on his way to the Norfolk area where he will dock and then journey to Washington C.H. for the reunion.

It was so interesting to hear how an Ohio farm boy has become such an adventurer, especially a sailor. Listening to inner voices and allowing circumstances to shape this style of living, Chuck seems to be enjoying retirement to its fullest. I also enjoyed taking that proverbial trip down memory lane as together we remembered people and events from the past. It was even good to hear someone call me Jeannie. Only Ohio friends and family know me by that name. Old friends are truly like gold.

Family Travel

Our son, Robert, and his wife, Kristen, enjoy travel adventures and are teaching their children to appreciate them, also. This year they wanted to see not only New York City, but also some other areas of the state. After investigating airline fares, they decided to have a real plane, train, automobile experience. They flew to Buffalo and in the following days traveled across the state to NYC. To this mother’s delight, they documented this trip each day on a blog, Family Matters. It has been great fun to follow their itinerary in this way and to imagine what Annaka and Jack might be saying. This kind of real time postcard truly says “wish you were here.” I can’t wait to hear their commentary on the sights and experiences. Accolades to Rob and Kristen for choosing many kid-friendly places too visit.

One of the last destinations for these Osbornes was to visit the Dickson family farm in Verbank. This is the farm that was established by Annaka and Jack’s great-great-great grandfather. I, too, have wonderful childhood memories of visits to this special place and am glad that they had the opportunity to play where many of their ancestors have worked and lived. What a rich and wonderful vacation they have had!

Real Heroes

My son, Robert, introduced me to author J.R.R. Tolkien a number of years ago and I often think of his writings when there is conversation about the importance of community and how it offers support during difficult times. Tolkien created a fantasy world called Middle Earth as the setting for his Lord of the Rings trilogy. He raises the question of what makes a person a hero. The work supplies a simple answer: A hero is not necessarily the person with the biggest sword; rather, a hero is the person with the biggest heart who is willing to sacrifice for others. While powerful forces of good and evil are fighting a war to determine the entire future of Middle Earth, the true heroes are the hobbits, Frodo Baggins and Sam Gamgee. As a Christian I know that our faith community calls us to make the right choices as we live in relationship with one another. Sometimes, this means we may become a hero or encourage someone else to be one. Isn’t it great to know that we are not in isolation when bad things occur and that heroes can be ordinary people living in the moment?

Time Well Spent

Last week our DISCIPLE study group had their final gathering. It was truly an act of commitment for us to arrange our schedules to share a meal and Holy Communion. As always this was a special time as we explored the theme word – Remember - for this particular session. In doing so, we realized how important we have become to one another and that we have claimed sacred scripture as the basis for our discipleship in new and exciting ways. One of the highlights of our year was to have two group members become engaged to one another. Of course, sharing prayer concerns and moments of personal insight bound us together and connected us with God in a special way. Now the challenge is to convince others to be a part of DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY during the coming year. Why?

From one of my previous postings:
In today’s bullet and sound-byte culture, it seems to be difficult to help persons understand that in-depth Bible study is important to their spiritual growth and that it is important to the life of the church. Repeatedly, I hear “don’t you have a short-term study, one that doesn’t require a lot of reading?” Yes, periodically we do Bible study “lite” and it introduces participants to some basic understandings. However, this encounter with the Word is not long enough to let the stories become our stories. To be nurtured in the faith stories requires discipline of reading and prayer. Developing learning relationships – students and teachers with God and with one another – is the essential frame for all educational ministries. This means that we need to be a part of an intentional spiritual community. I continue to believe that DISCIPLE BIBLE STUDY is a model that does this and functions as a building block not only for individuals, but also for the congregation.

Back in Time

As I watched our grandsons,William and Ethan, play at Sunset Beach last Friday, wonderful memories of beach times through the years filled my thoughts. Most of them were of our sons, Robert and Daniel, at Lewes, DE and Sunset Beach, NC. This second picture is of Dan (William and Ethan's father) and Robert enjoying the sandy beach at Cape Henlopen in 1976. It just seems like yesterday!

This I Believe - Part Two

Following confirmation a week ago Sunday, Ron and I drove to Ohio to visit my parents. Along the way we listened to the audio book, This I Believe. This compilation of essays from both the original and current radio broadcasts of personal reflections on beliefs and philosophies captivated our hearts and minds as we traveled. Voices of ordinary and extraordinary people revealed positive insights shaped by a variety of experiences. We especially enjoyed the timeless thoughts of persons like Helen Keller, Eleanor Roosevelt, Jackie Robinson and Edward R. Murrow. Their personal creeds are based on both religious and cultural understanding of salvation. These expressions of love and liberty are often a call to action or at least a mandate to name those beliefs that shape and define us. How amazing that this experience followed on the heels of confirmation thoughts and was on the way to Ohio, the birthplace of my most formative beliefs and values. This trip soon became more than visiting family and memories; it became an important journey to clearer self-understanding. (Tim, I think this might qualify for a God Wink.)

This I Believe

This past Sunday the affirmation of faith that was used in our worship services was written by our sixth graders as part of their preparation for confirmation. This creed is a compilation of their individual thoughts and beliefs. Each year as I assist these young minds to articulate their beliefs, I find myself reviewing those things that name my faith. This year my thoughts seem to focus on the sustaining power of the Holy Spirit and how this allows me to face the challenges of each day. Realizing how important this exercise can be, I think that we should probably encourage all church members to periodically examine their personal beliefs and to bear witness to them much like the confirmation experience. As we tell the youth, confirmation does not conclude the faith journey. It is just one stop along the way as we move toward the Christian Perfection as known by John Wesley.



to be continued

The Holy Mystery

We are in Ohio this week visiting my parents. Although I haven’t posted a blog lately, I have been pondering several different topics. Today, I am borrowing from Theolog as a focus for thought. The author says:

When you ask a Protestant patient what you can do for him, he’s likely to say, “You can pray for me.” Ask a Catholic and she’s likely to say, “I’d like to have communion." more

Communion remains very much a mystery to many United Methodists. Understanding it as a Holy Mystery can lead us into a richer relationship with our Lord. Perhaps we have been negligent in offering this opportunity within our churches?

Our Summer Intern

Meet Laura, our summer field experience student from Duke Divinity School. We had a delightful introductory visit last evening. Today we will make sure that we are fully oriented for this experience and make plans for her Myrtle Beach summer. I think this will be a good summer for all.

Weary Days

We all have them...days when we feel so physically, mentally, emotionally tired that we are also spiritually tired. I once heard a woman say, “I am tired – way down into next year.” Recently, I admit that I have been feeling a bit like that. So, it was a special moment when I read this passage. “…Jesus, tired out by his journey, was sitting by the well.” (John 4:6) Whenever the journey becomes overwhelming, Jesus gives an example to follow. He was weary, so he sat down and rested. It was as though I had permission not only to be tired, but also to rest. I also heard the invitation – “Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) So, with a long list of things to do I stopped last evening and rested. This morning the list remains, but I certainly feel better equipped to continue the journey. Why is this such a hard lesson to learn for some of us?

General Conference News

As the 2008 General Conference comes to a close, I share a few of the stories that have caught my attention.

Our mission statement has been expanded to read - "...to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world." Bishop Gregory Palmer's comments about how this is the "why"we make disciples and a fulfillment of Wesleyan thought make sense to me.

A committee was authorized to develop a new hymnal that will be presented to the 2012 General Conference for approval. Already I can hear the lively discussion about what will or will not be included.

Membership vows will now include the promise to be faithful in "their witness". I look forward to observing how congregations will interpret and fulfill this vow.

The Judicial Council elected its first woman president. Susan Henry-Crowe is an elder in the South Carolina Conference who currently serves as dean of Cannon Chapel at Emory University. It is nice to know people in high places and to be confident in their ability to serve.

The Study of Ministry will be continued for the next four years. Although I understand the concerns by some United Methodists that we need to move forward with some significant changes, I believe that we should continue the discussion as to have a clearer understanding of the orders before major legislation is introduced.

Once again General Conference has agonized over the issues that surround homosexuality and apparently has maintained its current stance. Isn't it interesting that Jesus never spoke of this matter, yet we choose to engage in such painful, devisive dialogue about it?

Not only have I enjoyed being part of General Conference through the coverage found at www.umc.org, but also through several delegate's blogs. Again, I refer you to Stephan Taylor's blog for an insight into a delegate's experience. I give thanks for those who have so faithfully served our church.

Dreams

I seem to be dreaming a lot lately or at least remembering my dreams as I awake. Although I do not keep dream journals or think that there is great meaning in them, I do understand that they indicate that I may be unusually concerned by certain situations or events in my life. So, I find it important to name them and give them prayerful attention if I am to have restful sleep. It is interesting how dreams seem to weave stories of our past and present together. Are they omens of the future? Maybe, if we don’t handle them with care.

My current dreams seem to focus on tests….ones for which I have not studied or have studied the wrong material. This may be because my e-Christian Ed students at Columbia College are at the end of their semester and some are not ready for their final assignments. Yet, these dreams do lead me to thinking about whether I am ready for the tests in my life. I am a dedicated student, but sometimes I wonder if I have studied the wrong things or have not fully engaged in the process of learning with openness and discernment. When tested, I see only one answer and if that doesn't work I don't always know an alternative one. Therefore, these dreams about tests may be reflective of a need to claim God's gifts of a searching heart and questioning mind. Perhaps dreams are just another way to discover life-giving truths for the journey.

This and That

As I read the news from General Conference and some delegate blogs, I am impressed by the legislative process and the evidence of detailed planning for this important event. This should not be a surprise as we are Methodists. The worship experiences must be awesome! I encourage others to follow the happenings at GC and to be in prayer for the delegates.


I was part of a training team for a Safe Sanctuary workshop in Florence this past Saturday. We had some challenges, but we were pleased with the response of the participants. We not longer have to spend a lot of time convincing people that such policies need to exist. Churches just want to know what they should include and how to implement them. Much of what we discussed may be found on the SC Conference website. One frightening statistic that we quote certainly reminds me why I am spending several days doing this training. It is that by the time of conviction, pedophiles average over 200 victims.

Yesterday, we sang Whispering Hope during our worship. It is one of those hymns that you love or really dislike. If it evokes good memories of persons and events of the past, one probably feels a tug at the heart when singing it. If it has not been part of ones faith tradition, it probably is not appreciated as it does not reflect current tastes in music. All of this reminded me of how important it is to carefully select music when planning worship. Personal favorites may not be the congregation's choice for inspiring worship.

Earth Day 2008

“The universe is a communion of subjects, not a collection of objects” – Thomas Berry

This quote introduced me to the writings of Thomas Berry and helped me focus my thinking as we planned for celebrating Earth Day Sunday at First UMC. In a society that champions individualism, the concept of interdependent living is a challenge for many to accept. Understanding Earth as sacred community is the reality we need to embrace. Our Environmental Stewardship Committee led this effort to reflect on God’s creation and our place in it. From music and liturgy to scripture and sermons, we were reminded that we live in a divine world, one that we are called to maintain. We also enjoyed lunch on the lawn, a great opportunity for fellowship and a reminder of the importance of living in community.

For several months, Evening Thoughts by Thomas Berry has been part of my bedtime reading. Almost ritualistically, I have read a few pages of it for personal reflection. Fascinated by Berry’s thought process and use of language, I have found my own thinking to be challenged and expanded. This eco-theologian calls us to be a part of this time of confronting the integral well-being of the Earth. All creatures of Earth are looking to us for their destiny. He reminds us that “our children and grandchildren depend on our decisions for the sustenance and flourishing of the life systems of the planet.”

At the conclusion of the book, the editor included “An Intellectual Biography of Thomas Berry” which in itself is interesting reading. This leads me to wonder what my intellectual biography might say? I hope it is still being written.

Interesting Reading

Larry Hollen has another blog posting which has caused me to think about how we live our lives even in the church. Toxic Niceness seems to allow bullying and lying to define too many relationships. He says, "There is a place for niceness in the workplace and the family but it must be authentic and not a mask for false equilibrium. It shouldn’t cover up dysfunction. It must be accompanied by truthfulness, responsibility and accountability"

I think it is interesting that the topic of toxic niceness leads me to thoughts of the upcoming General Conference. South Carolina delegates - Tim McClendon, Kathy James and Stephen Taylor - have been busy reading, reading and reading proposed legislation in preparation for it. Tim is also seeking election as bishop this year. Their blogs have been insightful to what is happening and each welcome our thoughts.

A Few More Thoughts

I am still processing some of the information and thoughts presented at Caring for Creation. Although the urgency to be more environmentally responsible was at the forefront of most presentations, there was also a strong message of hope. This hope can be realized by doing simple things to reduce energy consumption which in turn means burning less fossil fuels, the major contributor to the climate crisis that is looming over us.

Some of the simple things that I am trying to incorporate into my life include:

• Change a light as one regular light bulb with a compact fluorescent light saves 150 pounds of carbon dioxide a year.
  
  
• Lower the thermostat 2 degrees in the winter and raise it by 2 degrees in summer saves 2,000 lbs. of carbon dioxide.
  
  
• Recycle more as I can save 2400 pounds of carbon dioxide per year by recycling half of household waste.
  
  
• Plant a tree as it will absorb one ton of carbon dioxide over its lifetime.
  
  
• Turn off electronic devices when not using them as this becomes a major saving of carbon dioxide.
  
  
• Think globally, eat locally. I can save about 500 pounds of carbon dioxide by supplying 25% of our food from local sources. (I guess that means lots of sweet potatoes.)
  
  
• Encourage others to adopt similar practices.

Coach Jean

I have been blessed to have a wide variety of opportunities in and through my ministry. Coaching is one of the more recent ones. Last fall I began training to be a coach for those trying to discover what it is that God wants in their lives and to help them succeed at doing it. (Oct.4, 2007) This week I concluded phase one of this undertaking with more training. It has been six months of wondering about the value of coaching and whether it is what I need to be doing. However, as we gathered and shared our experiences it became clearer to me that perhaps this will help me fulfill the call I have to prepare the way for those who follow in the ministry of the deacon. I sensed God’s grace as I realized the ineffectiveness of my efforts with my guinea pigs – Kyle and Melissa. I will ask for their forgiveness and move forward with phase two. I think I better understand what it is that I need to do to be a better coach and look forward to my next assignment. My friend, Kathy, also has some interesting comments about this experience.

However, I still wonder why we need to create this artificial relationship between peers. Why can’t we just ask supporting and encouraging questions of one another as we walk along the way? Somehow we have created a culture that plays life like a game and the winners have good coaches. Tom, I can’t wait for your response.

A Great Book!

As I continue to reflect on what I heard at Caring for Creation and try to understand what this means to me, I keep thinking about this quote from St. Augustine that was used:

"Some people, in order to discover God, read books. But there is a great book: the very appearance of created things. Look above you! Look below you! Note it. Read it. God, whom you want to discover, never wrote that book with ink. Instead He set before your eyes the things that He had made. Can you ask for a louder voice than that?”

While traveling from the mighty ocean to the pale green mountains last weekend and seeing wisteria, dogwood, redbud, azaleas, and daffodils blooming, the beauty of God’s creation unfolds before us and words of praise are on our lips. “O Lord, how manifold are your works!” (Psalm 104.24) Gentle rain and bright rainbows, songbirds and butterflies, mountains and streams – all are evidence of God’s creating presence and steadfast love. The vastness of the sky reveals life eternal and a voice calling us to faithful, sustainable living is heard.

Next year's Caring for Creation at Lake Junaluska will be March 5-8, 2009. I invite you to join us there.

Look at the World

After listening to the speakers and participants at Caring for Creation, I realize how much more I need to understand about the scope of the topics presented and to make a greater commitment to environmental well-being through personal lifestyle choices. Ron and I had much to discuss as we traveled back to Myrtle Beach and I am sure that certain aspects of that conversation will become part of this blog in days ahead.

Quite appropriately, worship concluded the conference. A choral ensemble from First UMC in Waynesville introduced me to a John Rutter anthem, “Look at the World,” which was wonderfully uplifting. Bishop Kenneth Carder’s sermon text was Matthew 6:25-33 – “Consider the birds of the air and the lilies of the field.” He reminded us that creation is God’s house and we are the servants called to care for all creation. Our response was the new Social Creed being proposed at General Conference. The benediction to go forth and serve the Lord by caring for creation was received with commitment and renewal of spirit.

Caring for Creation

This weekend Ron and I are attending Caring for Creation, a conference at Lake Junaluska that promotes care and justice for Earth and its people. For the past two years, Ron has found this event to be very important to his understanding of how the faith community needs to be involved in these issues. This year he encouraged me to participate and after observing his efforts to make environmental issues matters of faith, I could not refuse. It is unique for me to be the tag-along at a church-type conference. That is usually Ron’s role.

However, I have encountered folks I know and especially have been pleased to visit with Thomas Henderson who after a nearly tragic accident has been able to return to his passion for creating a sustainable culture as it relates to agriculture. He is a walking, talking miracle. He would love to offer South Carolina a program on some of the work he has done in several different settings. I will welcome any thoughts about this.

We ate breakfast this morning with some folks from Broad St. UMC in Kingsport, TN. (By the way, they are very excited to have Clark Jenkins as their senior minister). They were sharing some of the ways their congregation is becoming more eco-friendly, but said that they are having to proceed slowly because older people don’t like change. Then, almost immediately we all decided that this might not be the age group which is hindering progress for most of the attendees of this conference are 55 and older. Also, many older adults have known rural life, minimal consumerism and a simpler lifestyle. They have an appreciation for the impact of nature on their lives that comes from life experiences. Just think of all the changes older adults have seen in their lives. It is probably the younger generations who have a more difficult time changing. Just a thought.

God and Mammon

As economic and environmental matters dominate the headlines, we are being made aware of our passion to possess and the false standard of a good life based on accumulation. The Gospel of Matthew says that “No one can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.” (6:24) How can we embrace an authentic response to the gospel? Maybe this prayer by Joyce M. Shutt gives some direction.

Consumers’ Prayer*

throwaway bottles
throwaway cans
throwaway friendships
throwaway fans

disposable diapers
disposable plates
disposable people
disposable wastes

instant puddings
instant rice
instant intimacy
instant ice

plastic dishes
plastic laces
plastic flowers
plastic faces

Lord of the living
transcending our lies
infuse us with meaning
recycle our lives

*Living More with Less by Doris Janzen Longacre (Scottdadale, Pa.: Herald Press, 1980), 14.

One More Easter Thought

The joy and hope known through the celebration of Easter linger in my thoughts. I have especially wondered about the Easter only people who came searching for something special this past week. Do they realize that they can know that Christianity celebrates the resurrection of Jesus each Sunday? Do they know Jesus in their everyday? Are they still looking for Jesus the Christ?

The faithful women went to the tomb to prepare Jesus’ body and to bury him properly, but found strangers appearing out of nowhere to tell them that Jesus was not there any longer. “Why do you look for the living among the dead?” Here is the real question. These men in white remind the women of Jesus’ own words to them, that he would rise on the third day. They were looking where he said he would not be. This seems to be the experience of many even today. We look where Jesus is not. We look for the living among the dead. We look to our own intellect and strength. We look to the comforts of this world for inspiration and comfort. Yet all we need is to remember, like the women at the tomb, what Jesus has told us.

We find Jesus where he told us to look: in the community of believers. Jesus has been raised and it is in this gathered community of the church where we will find him. In all living things the promise of renewal is found, and that is where we are called to service. We are called to look for Jesus among the living, among those who need to be served and in those who are serving them. We look for the Living One among all those to whom he has promised life. Christ is risen! Christ is risen indeed!