I believe that the current model of evangelism has become a joke. When I was taught "how to" evangelize, I was given a "Que dice la biblia?" and told to begin one-on-one Bible studies. When I did it, it worked. The first three people I studied with became believers in Jesus. Now, this may have also been due to the fact that the three people were teenage boys, and the other two people who were in the room were American, teenage girls... but, I digress. Since that time, this pattern has not worked. I just don't see students jumping at the chance to study a fill-in-the-blank worksheet that tells them "all they need to know" about Jesus in 6 short lessons. For that matter, I find it rather arrogant to assume that 6 short lessons will teach you everything you need to know about Jesus.
The book of Acts has amazing stories of 3000 people turning to Christ after one sermon. But, the celebration in which the sermon takes place is the Jewish festival of Pentecost. This means that everyone there had some sort of apriori knowledge of the message being spoken by Peter. They had the history, the scriptures, and the background necessary to understand the radical message being proclaimed to them. Past this story, the message is brought to groups, families, and individuals, but there is not another mass-conversion like that in Acts. A man catches up to a chariot on foot, he disappears and reappears in Samaria, Peter has a vision, Paul is blinded on the road, and the jailor is shocked by the prisoners morality and ethic.
So, I have three questions that I wish for someone to answer:
1) What is the Gospel/Good News of Jesus Christ? - please don't give me a one sentence answer...
2) What about your life would draw people in to know Christ?
3) How are you living differently than the culture around you?
Monday, October 27, 2008
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Leaping Out Of Theology
I am a self-proclaimed geek. I always have been, and I always will be. The unfortunate part of this fact is that I get soaked into the theory, and I miss the practical side of the theory. Theories are easy. They are concrete. They are definite. They can be shown and examined. They can be argued and proven. In theology, the theory is often very difficult when practice is introduced.
Sin is sin. Sin has consequences, but it is forgiven in Christ. We are called as Christians to judge in ways that we wish to be judged (and, for me, that is not all that much.) We are also called to forgive. As a matter of fact, the Lord's prayer says, "Forgive our debts as we forgive those who are indebted to us." (YIKES!) And, these are great theories! But, the stark reality of life is the fact that Christians need more than blanket acceptance and ignorant approval of sin. Yes, hate the sin and love the sinner. Good theory. But, I have met many sinners who define themselves, their own lives, and their lifestyle by their sin. There is a delicate line that exists where we allow a person to work through his or her own problems and we begin to get trampled on and taken advantage of. The theory is rock solid, and it is still true. It can be argued, and it can be eloquently expressed. The practice of the theory is often convoluted and messy.
The church is the people in whom the Spirit of God dwells. This is a great theory. It can be argued and expressed. My last sermon at Rural Hill Church of Christ was on this very topic. I don't like to toot my own horn, but (toot toot) I think I expressed the background and comprehensive theology well and at the level of my audience. There are some dangerous applications to that theology. For instance, buildings may be one of the worst ideas and sponges of resources ever! I mean, we spend millions of dollars on a meeting place when that money could go to something or someone else. Also, organizational ministries that target specific demographics, people groups, and age ranges are not always the best idea. The early church was a conglomeration of many different peoples. They were all together, and they had relatively few disputes. Some people will also use this theory to go off and do whatever they wanted to in the first place, because "they are the church." On top of the fact that we look nothing like the early church, that was not the intent of the theory. But, does not that raise a whole new set of questions? What is the intent of the theory? What was the situation to which the scriptures were written? Why did the author mention that story? All of these are unanswerable, but significant, questions. The theory is air-tight, but the practice may even be heresy at the extremes.
A major complaint that I have with my $80000 dollar education from Lipscomb University is that my degree states that I am prepared for ministry, but I was prepared for theology with my degree with little emphasis on ministry. But, now that I am a teacher, I cannot blame the professors. The ivory tower of academia is easier to teach. How could anyone teach "messy"? One cannot test on messy. One cannot find simple ways to assess comprehensive understanding of subjective and situational practice of theory. You cannot quiz on "maybe." When my ministry or school students ask me for an opinion on a topic, I default to theory. The reason is that I believe that, if they grasp the theory, they will one day be able to answer the question they asked, but they are often not wanting me to answer the question they asked... it is another question entirely hidden behind their question. I know this, because I did it.
For most people, the embedded theology that dwells within the person will become his or her practice. Sometimes, two separate theories form the same practice. So, we should not be quick to assume that, merely because one chooses to take communion every Sunday, one is a legalist. However, we must be very careful that all theory and all theology points to the most important aspect of the Gospel in practice: "Love God with all you are" and "Love your neighbor as your self." Any theology or theory that deviates from these two commands has missed the point. And, any practice that spawns from theory (even good theory...) that does not practice these commands is not right.
In life, we must jump beyond the practice of designing and learning theology to the messy world of living out our ideals. At times, we must surround ourselves with the very people we believe are sinning in order to show them a savior. Sometimes, we must practice what we preach. Thus, we must preach with grace and humility.
Sin is sin. Sin has consequences, but it is forgiven in Christ. We are called as Christians to judge in ways that we wish to be judged (and, for me, that is not all that much.) We are also called to forgive. As a matter of fact, the Lord's prayer says, "Forgive our debts as we forgive those who are indebted to us." (YIKES!) And, these are great theories! But, the stark reality of life is the fact that Christians need more than blanket acceptance and ignorant approval of sin. Yes, hate the sin and love the sinner. Good theory. But, I have met many sinners who define themselves, their own lives, and their lifestyle by their sin. There is a delicate line that exists where we allow a person to work through his or her own problems and we begin to get trampled on and taken advantage of. The theory is rock solid, and it is still true. It can be argued, and it can be eloquently expressed. The practice of the theory is often convoluted and messy.
The church is the people in whom the Spirit of God dwells. This is a great theory. It can be argued and expressed. My last sermon at Rural Hill Church of Christ was on this very topic. I don't like to toot my own horn, but (toot toot) I think I expressed the background and comprehensive theology well and at the level of my audience. There are some dangerous applications to that theology. For instance, buildings may be one of the worst ideas and sponges of resources ever! I mean, we spend millions of dollars on a meeting place when that money could go to something or someone else. Also, organizational ministries that target specific demographics, people groups, and age ranges are not always the best idea. The early church was a conglomeration of many different peoples. They were all together, and they had relatively few disputes. Some people will also use this theory to go off and do whatever they wanted to in the first place, because "they are the church." On top of the fact that we look nothing like the early church, that was not the intent of the theory. But, does not that raise a whole new set of questions? What is the intent of the theory? What was the situation to which the scriptures were written? Why did the author mention that story? All of these are unanswerable, but significant, questions. The theory is air-tight, but the practice may even be heresy at the extremes.
A major complaint that I have with my $80000 dollar education from Lipscomb University is that my degree states that I am prepared for ministry, but I was prepared for theology with my degree with little emphasis on ministry. But, now that I am a teacher, I cannot blame the professors. The ivory tower of academia is easier to teach. How could anyone teach "messy"? One cannot test on messy. One cannot find simple ways to assess comprehensive understanding of subjective and situational practice of theory. You cannot quiz on "maybe." When my ministry or school students ask me for an opinion on a topic, I default to theory. The reason is that I believe that, if they grasp the theory, they will one day be able to answer the question they asked, but they are often not wanting me to answer the question they asked... it is another question entirely hidden behind their question. I know this, because I did it.
For most people, the embedded theology that dwells within the person will become his or her practice. Sometimes, two separate theories form the same practice. So, we should not be quick to assume that, merely because one chooses to take communion every Sunday, one is a legalist. However, we must be very careful that all theory and all theology points to the most important aspect of the Gospel in practice: "Love God with all you are" and "Love your neighbor as your self." Any theology or theory that deviates from these two commands has missed the point. And, any practice that spawns from theory (even good theory...) that does not practice these commands is not right.
In life, we must jump beyond the practice of designing and learning theology to the messy world of living out our ideals. At times, we must surround ourselves with the very people we believe are sinning in order to show them a savior. Sometimes, we must practice what we preach. Thus, we must preach with grace and humility.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Diving into Theology
Listening to language is critical to understanding a person's theological beliefs and backgrounds. It is amazing to me the language that we use, the songs that we sing, and the hope we proclaim to other people. The overwhelming truth is that most people just listen and soak up those words and phrases without much thought as to the practical application of them. Think about these phrases and how they have been used:
"Let's go to church." or "Don't run in church." or "This place is sacred." -
In Judaism, places were holy. The temple was holy, and it was the place in which God dwelt. However, the scandal of Christianity is the fact that the Lord is present by the Holy Spirit in you, and where he is (thus you are) is holy. By church, we do not normally mean "the congregation of collected individual participants within the kingdom of God who have gathered to praise God in worship." Instead, we mean the "building." So, parents tell their kids to not eat in church, to not run in church, or to not play in church. Before someone goes on an argument soap box, I agree that some of those things should not happen in the BUILDING, but the "church" is a different story. You see, if I agreed with that theology, I would not have been able to play little league baseball on a team with any Christians because I could not play or run in church. I played baseball for the glory of God ("whatever you do whether in word or deed, do it in the name of the Lord.) And, with the assembly of two or more Christians (where ever two or more gather in my name, I am there), I would be forced to sit and watch my peers enjoy their sport.
"I'll fly away." or "Your soul will fly to heaven" or "It's all gonna burn anyway." -
This creation, according to the Creator, was AND STILL IS good. The serpent was a crafty created being, so God believed that the world was good even with the instrument of doubt, selfishness, and sin created within it. By and large, Christianity has bought into the Platonic dualism presented by the first century philosophers rather than the eschatological views of scripture. According to scripture, God will bring a new heavens and new earth (in other words, a similar but new creation to what we currently exist within) at the End Times. While the old heaven and old earth (which was good) will pass away, the new heaven and new earth will replace it in the same place. Rather than floating off to some ethereal heaven, Christians are called to go up to meet Jesus to come back down and dwell in the presence of the Lord forever. Also, by saying that this will all burn, we buy into the fact that the kingdom involves no real participation in this world other than "saving souls" for heaven. Quite simply, we must be ministers of reconciliation who try to pull together in the present the Garden Shalom and the End Time Shalom. The earth groans to be made new, and Christians must work to allieviate that groaning by helping all of God's creation to find its purpose and created intent.
"Go talk to the minister." or "We need a ministry for that." or "Why talk to me; I am not in ministry." -
As a Christian, you are a minister. I think the title of a full-time, paid minister is part of the embedded problem. We must use the language and understanding that all people are ministers. The "church" is supporting a ministry if its people do the ministry (not if they decide to hire a minister.) Remember, if the church is the people, the ministry will happen if the people do it. Everyone is a minister. To teens... to adults... to children... If you a part of the church, you are a part of ministry to people. You cannot get away from it. The only question is whether the person is looking to you for ministry.
"We need to go back to the Bible for that." or "He just preaches the Bible." or "You would know what to do if you just read the Bible." -
I am a very strong believer in the authority of scripture. However, I find it arrogant to assume that one person is just preaching "the Bible." Are you telling me that he speaks only in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic? All English translations and sermons are an interpretation of the words of Scripture. Some people try to speak more accruately than others, but they are still trying to interpret the text in a faithful manner. I also find these statements funny because they are rarely said by someone who was not happy with the sermon. However, the theme of Scripture is that the word cuts to the heart so much that it often offends, rebukes, angers, and condemns. Maybe I am just missing the days where we actually talk about the radical nature of the Sermon on the Mount, but I have yet to see a person crying as they left because Scripture called them out on their missing God's intent for their life while still proclaiming that the preacher "really preached the Word today." Let's be honest, for most of us, the above statements mean "He preaches insightful, fun, entertaining, and accurate (by my definition) sermons."
At some point, we must begin to think about what we say before we say it. Or, maybe the Scripture is correct: "Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry." If you listen well, you will hear what someone believes. You do not have to have all the answers, and it is likely that the other person does not have them either. Have sympathy. Chose your words well because they may be the beginning of something brand new.
"Let's go to church." or "Don't run in church." or "This place is sacred." -
In Judaism, places were holy. The temple was holy, and it was the place in which God dwelt. However, the scandal of Christianity is the fact that the Lord is present by the Holy Spirit in you, and where he is (thus you are) is holy. By church, we do not normally mean "the congregation of collected individual participants within the kingdom of God who have gathered to praise God in worship." Instead, we mean the "building." So, parents tell their kids to not eat in church, to not run in church, or to not play in church. Before someone goes on an argument soap box, I agree that some of those things should not happen in the BUILDING, but the "church" is a different story. You see, if I agreed with that theology, I would not have been able to play little league baseball on a team with any Christians because I could not play or run in church. I played baseball for the glory of God ("whatever you do whether in word or deed, do it in the name of the Lord.) And, with the assembly of two or more Christians (where ever two or more gather in my name, I am there), I would be forced to sit and watch my peers enjoy their sport.
"I'll fly away." or "Your soul will fly to heaven" or "It's all gonna burn anyway." -
This creation, according to the Creator, was AND STILL IS good. The serpent was a crafty created being, so God believed that the world was good even with the instrument of doubt, selfishness, and sin created within it. By and large, Christianity has bought into the Platonic dualism presented by the first century philosophers rather than the eschatological views of scripture. According to scripture, God will bring a new heavens and new earth (in other words, a similar but new creation to what we currently exist within) at the End Times. While the old heaven and old earth (which was good) will pass away, the new heaven and new earth will replace it in the same place. Rather than floating off to some ethereal heaven, Christians are called to go up to meet Jesus to come back down and dwell in the presence of the Lord forever. Also, by saying that this will all burn, we buy into the fact that the kingdom involves no real participation in this world other than "saving souls" for heaven. Quite simply, we must be ministers of reconciliation who try to pull together in the present the Garden Shalom and the End Time Shalom. The earth groans to be made new, and Christians must work to allieviate that groaning by helping all of God's creation to find its purpose and created intent.
"Go talk to the minister." or "We need a ministry for that." or "Why talk to me; I am not in ministry." -
As a Christian, you are a minister. I think the title of a full-time, paid minister is part of the embedded problem. We must use the language and understanding that all people are ministers. The "church" is supporting a ministry if its people do the ministry (not if they decide to hire a minister.) Remember, if the church is the people, the ministry will happen if the people do it. Everyone is a minister. To teens... to adults... to children... If you a part of the church, you are a part of ministry to people. You cannot get away from it. The only question is whether the person is looking to you for ministry.
"We need to go back to the Bible for that." or "He just preaches the Bible." or "You would know what to do if you just read the Bible." -
I am a very strong believer in the authority of scripture. However, I find it arrogant to assume that one person is just preaching "the Bible." Are you telling me that he speaks only in Greek, Hebrew, and Aramaic? All English translations and sermons are an interpretation of the words of Scripture. Some people try to speak more accruately than others, but they are still trying to interpret the text in a faithful manner. I also find these statements funny because they are rarely said by someone who was not happy with the sermon. However, the theme of Scripture is that the word cuts to the heart so much that it often offends, rebukes, angers, and condemns. Maybe I am just missing the days where we actually talk about the radical nature of the Sermon on the Mount, but I have yet to see a person crying as they left because Scripture called them out on their missing God's intent for their life while still proclaiming that the preacher "really preached the Word today." Let's be honest, for most of us, the above statements mean "He preaches insightful, fun, entertaining, and accurate (by my definition) sermons."
At some point, we must begin to think about what we say before we say it. Or, maybe the Scripture is correct: "Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry." If you listen well, you will hear what someone believes. You do not have to have all the answers, and it is likely that the other person does not have them either. Have sympathy. Chose your words well because they may be the beginning of something brand new.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Why I Just Don't Care About This Election...
I just do not care about the election this year. At the beginning of the political debating and candidate selection, I was pretty excited. But, I am tired of it now. Oh, do not get me wrong, I will still probably fight the crowds to express my right to vote and become a part of something that is bigger than me. Honestly, I just stopped caring.
You see, in the heat of all of this political turmoil, I have been working. I am working two jobs. I am a youth minister and a Bible teacher at Ezell. I work between 51-55 hours a week with one break on Saturdays. And, I realized that all of the political stuff has been happening, but I am too busy to see it. And, I love it! I have not seen anything. No ads. No commercials. No mud slinging. No debating over issues. No right or left wing agendas. No endless debates over the sanctity of human rights, fetus rights, criminal rights, or religious rights. No mindless drool about economics systems and recessions. No Bush part 2 or 1st minority questions.
Just work and the Olympics. And, I am working hard.
You see, in the kingdom of God, there is a lot of work to be done. And, it will not be done by the American government. Oh, the government may make it easier for me to do my jobs. They may take more of the money that I make (that is God's money anyway) from my jobs. They may make laws that guide people to live kingdom lives. But, in the end, this election will not change much in the direction of the kingdom of God. For that matter, most elections have not changed the direction of the kingdom of God.
So, for now, I just do not care. I am too busy doing my best with the time I have within the kingdom to worry about whether this country will have trickle-down economics for the next 4 years. I am too busy loving my students to care whether No Child Left Behind is still in effect. I am too busy calling myself and others to a higher standard to worry about what is happening in Washington. I am just too busy to ask God whether he is Republican or Democrat... or even if He cares. I am just busy.
So, I challenge YOU... "The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few." I charge you to get up off of your man-chair watching MSNBC. I ask you to put down the New York Times. I plead with you to get of the blog roles... AND, JUMP INTO THE KINGDOM THAT SURROUNDS YOU!!! I do not care what party you claim... because the hungry do not care! I do not care who you will vote for... because the thirsty just need water. I do not care... because there is a world of sick, lonely, dying, starving, and hurting people who need the non-partisan hands and feet of Jesus to once (JUST ONCE) stop arguing about the best way to serve and just stinking serve!
I will vote... I am just writing in "Jesus" for President!
You see, in the heat of all of this political turmoil, I have been working. I am working two jobs. I am a youth minister and a Bible teacher at Ezell. I work between 51-55 hours a week with one break on Saturdays. And, I realized that all of the political stuff has been happening, but I am too busy to see it. And, I love it! I have not seen anything. No ads. No commercials. No mud slinging. No debating over issues. No right or left wing agendas. No endless debates over the sanctity of human rights, fetus rights, criminal rights, or religious rights. No mindless drool about economics systems and recessions. No Bush part 2 or 1st minority questions.
Just work and the Olympics. And, I am working hard.
You see, in the kingdom of God, there is a lot of work to be done. And, it will not be done by the American government. Oh, the government may make it easier for me to do my jobs. They may take more of the money that I make (that is God's money anyway) from my jobs. They may make laws that guide people to live kingdom lives. But, in the end, this election will not change much in the direction of the kingdom of God. For that matter, most elections have not changed the direction of the kingdom of God.
So, for now, I just do not care. I am too busy doing my best with the time I have within the kingdom to worry about whether this country will have trickle-down economics for the next 4 years. I am too busy loving my students to care whether No Child Left Behind is still in effect. I am too busy calling myself and others to a higher standard to worry about what is happening in Washington. I am just too busy to ask God whether he is Republican or Democrat... or even if He cares. I am just busy.
So, I challenge YOU... "The harvest is plenty, but the workers are few." I charge you to get up off of your man-chair watching MSNBC. I ask you to put down the New York Times. I plead with you to get of the blog roles... AND, JUMP INTO THE KINGDOM THAT SURROUNDS YOU!!! I do not care what party you claim... because the hungry do not care! I do not care who you will vote for... because the thirsty just need water. I do not care... because there is a world of sick, lonely, dying, starving, and hurting people who need the non-partisan hands and feet of Jesus to once (JUST ONCE) stop arguing about the best way to serve and just stinking serve!
I will vote... I am just writing in "Jesus" for President!
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Camp Ponderings
1) I find it strange/sad/encouraging/empowering that many people feel that Camp is the closest thing to heaven that they feel here on earth. I pray that we channel that and figure it out so that we can do it for more than just one week out of the year.
2) This has been the year of difficult themes. Impact was all about the Prophets' message to us and their audience. Camp's theme was about living life to the fullest now! I feel like the themes keep getting deeper and deeper... and I like it...
3) I have decided that worship is a lifestyle that is sometimes expressed in song. And, the song must come from a life that is dedicated to the same things. I believe that this is the reason camp has the best worship of the year... we are all living it out on a daily basis.
4) There are few things more valuable than listening to students speak a message from the Word. Whether that message comes in form of a lesson, a skit, a presentation, or a late night comment, it is beyond encouraging.
5) I have concluded that one must taste and see that the Lord is good. That means... just because someone is present at camp, it does not mean that everything will stick.
6) I am convinced that we need friends who are committed to the same morals, ethics, values, and Jesus that we are committed to.
7) I long for the day when parting will not happen, praise will be on my lips, friends and family will surround, and God will be in our midst... again... and again... and again... to the fullest.
2) This has been the year of difficult themes. Impact was all about the Prophets' message to us and their audience. Camp's theme was about living life to the fullest now! I feel like the themes keep getting deeper and deeper... and I like it...
3) I have decided that worship is a lifestyle that is sometimes expressed in song. And, the song must come from a life that is dedicated to the same things. I believe that this is the reason camp has the best worship of the year... we are all living it out on a daily basis.
4) There are few things more valuable than listening to students speak a message from the Word. Whether that message comes in form of a lesson, a skit, a presentation, or a late night comment, it is beyond encouraging.
5) I have concluded that one must taste and see that the Lord is good. That means... just because someone is present at camp, it does not mean that everything will stick.
6) I am convinced that we need friends who are committed to the same morals, ethics, values, and Jesus that we are committed to.
7) I long for the day when parting will not happen, praise will be on my lips, friends and family will surround, and God will be in our midst... again... and again... and again... to the fullest.
Friday, July 18, 2008
The Myth of Happiness
What is happiness? I watched a movie staring Will Smith a while back that showed a man who was apparently in pursuit of happiness (spelled "Happyness" in the movie title.) It was an inspiring and tough movie with tear-jerker appeal. However, the man was not very happy until the very end of the movie. A case could be made that the man was not happy at all until he got what he wanted. But, isn't that the definition of the world's view of happiness?
Is happiness good fortune after a lifetime of disappointment and hurt? Is happiness finally getting what you wanted after wading through a lifetime of being stepped on? Is happiness a feeling of pleasure or satisfaction that seems from a good experience? Is happiness getting to experience the American Dream (which often starts as a nightmare)? Or, is there more?
I submit that happiness is a fleeting, illusive, and temporary feeling that should not be the target of one's pursuit. Happiness is a great feeling. But, pursuing a life filled with a good feeling is like trying to nail Jello to a tree. It is impossible to fully attain. Living a life in pursuit of happiness will only lead a person to a life filled with sadness, disappointment, and frustration.
So, what should we strive for and pursue? My answer is joy. But, what is joy? Joy is not a feeling of excitement. Joy is a mindset of contentment in any and all circumstances. If the pursuit of happiness is likened to nailing Jello to a tree, the pursuit of joy is like taking hold of a rail. Joy is found when you grasp onto something that is firm and solid. Joy can be found in the most dire of circumstances. Joy does not come from circumstantial good fortune, but it comes from an internal relationship.
Joy is not found merely by attaining a well-paid job. Joy is not found merely by taking the next financial ladder step. Joy is not found by merely accomplishing life-long dreams. Joy is found in knowing that 1) stuff is temporary, 2) life is eternal, 3) the most important aspect of pain and excitement is your response to it, and 4) the biggest things in life are taken care of by someone else.
I am not interested in another "pull yourself up by the boot straps," "rags to riches," "self-made man" story of happiness. I am interested in a relationship that allows me to be mended even when I am broken, content in the midst of pain and suffering, and joyful whether I am at the peak of my health or facing death. The excitement and joy of my story comes from the fact that the God I serve, not my own actions, makes it possible for me to live a different life.
Is happiness good fortune after a lifetime of disappointment and hurt? Is happiness finally getting what you wanted after wading through a lifetime of being stepped on? Is happiness a feeling of pleasure or satisfaction that seems from a good experience? Is happiness getting to experience the American Dream (which often starts as a nightmare)? Or, is there more?
I submit that happiness is a fleeting, illusive, and temporary feeling that should not be the target of one's pursuit. Happiness is a great feeling. But, pursuing a life filled with a good feeling is like trying to nail Jello to a tree. It is impossible to fully attain. Living a life in pursuit of happiness will only lead a person to a life filled with sadness, disappointment, and frustration.
So, what should we strive for and pursue? My answer is joy. But, what is joy? Joy is not a feeling of excitement. Joy is a mindset of contentment in any and all circumstances. If the pursuit of happiness is likened to nailing Jello to a tree, the pursuit of joy is like taking hold of a rail. Joy is found when you grasp onto something that is firm and solid. Joy can be found in the most dire of circumstances. Joy does not come from circumstantial good fortune, but it comes from an internal relationship.
Joy is not found merely by attaining a well-paid job. Joy is not found merely by taking the next financial ladder step. Joy is not found by merely accomplishing life-long dreams. Joy is found in knowing that 1) stuff is temporary, 2) life is eternal, 3) the most important aspect of pain and excitement is your response to it, and 4) the biggest things in life are taken care of by someone else.
I am not interested in another "pull yourself up by the boot straps," "rags to riches," "self-made man" story of happiness. I am interested in a relationship that allows me to be mended even when I am broken, content in the midst of pain and suffering, and joyful whether I am at the peak of my health or facing death. The excitement and joy of my story comes from the fact that the God I serve, not my own actions, makes it possible for me to live a different life.
Friday, May 30, 2008
The Myth of Life
There are many people who say they are "pro-life." What does that mean? 90% of the time, it means that the person fights for the life of a fetus inside a woman's womb. As a former fetus myself, I am deeply glad that my mother was, in these terms, "pro-life." However, I must question such a grandiose moniker being place on merely making sure women carry their babies to full-term. That is not really "pro-life"... it is pro-birth. And, don't get me wrong, I am pro-birth. But, pro-life is something completely different.
A dear friend of mine wrote a song with a line that says, "Just because I'm breathing doesn't mean I living life." Therefore, we must define life.
Is life the ability for blood to pump, air to breathe, or food to digest? Is life merely the things that happen from birth until death? Is life the quality of animate objects? Is the life the sequence of events (spiritual, physical, and mental) that hold existence together? Or, is life something much deeper?
I am pro-life, but I must define what I mean by that statement.
Life is more than blood, breath, and excrement. True life is found in believing that ALL life is valuable. From the baby being born to the crippled old man dying... From the high school senior with an attitude problem to the kindergarten child with his hands on his first diploma... From the American born solider to the Iraqi born Muslim... From the African American who suffered the full brunt of segregation to the white middle-class teenager has never seen such horrors... From our best friends to our worst enemies... ALL LIFE IS VALUABLE. And, it should be treated as such.
True life is living a life of love, service, humility, and sacrifice. True life is looking at every person as the image of God that they are. True life is not found by fighting for birth but by being peaceful until death. True life is experienced now and continues forever. It has little to do with clothes, food, drink, air, or blood. It has everything to do with relationship, attitude, knowledge, and passion. True life is found, modeled, and experienced through Jesus.
A dear friend of mine wrote a song with a line that says, "Just because I'm breathing doesn't mean I living life." Therefore, we must define life.
Is life the ability for blood to pump, air to breathe, or food to digest? Is life merely the things that happen from birth until death? Is life the quality of animate objects? Is the life the sequence of events (spiritual, physical, and mental) that hold existence together? Or, is life something much deeper?
I am pro-life, but I must define what I mean by that statement.
- I am pro- "best possible home life." Many children are born into homes where they have no hope before they began. They are born to homes without fathers. And, they are born into families with histories of violence. This must be corrected.
- I am pro- "affordable cost of living." So many people are bogged down by home prices, gas prices, and keeping up with those around them. From this, they cannot live. They can only work to keep up.
- I am pro- "affordable health care." Many people could not afford the medical expenses for birth, dental work, or check ups. Then, they get chewed out for thinking they could skirt one. That is not right.
- I am pro- "anti-war." There is an irony in the fact that we care that babies get born, but we want to throw those babies 18 years later into the War Machine to die.
- I am pro- "agent of death control." What good is it that we convinced a mother to have her child if that child has no father, joins a gang, and picks up a knife, gun, or drugs to kill someone or himself?
- I am pro- "community assistance." Yes, people take advantage of programs. But, everyday, I see families who are struggling to feed, clothe, and shelter their little ones and themselves. I refuse to throw the program out because of scheming people.
- I am pro- "targeted education." All people need to learn. Some students are in a cycle that, statistics say, they will never get out. People need skills and teachers who are patient and loving.
- I am pro- "trans-global relations and international peaceful discussion." The world is "everyone vs. us" until we recognize that we are all one. I have friends in 20 different countries around the world right now. There is no "us", and there is no "them" anymore.
- I am pro- "birth." As I have just mentioned, I believe in all life. I believe that babies should be brought into the world, but I believe it is our job to make the world livable for them. I struggle thinking about babies being born with handicaps, to fatherless homes, into the cycle of crime and poverty, or victims of a rape case.
- I am pro- "life." The life of the baby, the life of the mother, the life of the father, the life of the grandparents, the life of the surrounding neighborhood, the life of the state, and the life of the religious community.
Life is more than blood, breath, and excrement. True life is found in believing that ALL life is valuable. From the baby being born to the crippled old man dying... From the high school senior with an attitude problem to the kindergarten child with his hands on his first diploma... From the American born solider to the Iraqi born Muslim... From the African American who suffered the full brunt of segregation to the white middle-class teenager has never seen such horrors... From our best friends to our worst enemies... ALL LIFE IS VALUABLE. And, it should be treated as such.
True life is living a life of love, service, humility, and sacrifice. True life is looking at every person as the image of God that they are. True life is not found by fighting for birth but by being peaceful until death. True life is experienced now and continues forever. It has little to do with clothes, food, drink, air, or blood. It has everything to do with relationship, attitude, knowledge, and passion. True life is found, modeled, and experienced through Jesus.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
The Myth of Justice
So much thought, time, and man power is pumped into the struggle for justice. I remember a certain super hero who stood for "Truth, Justice, and the American Way." All the while, this super hero lived a lie by having duel identities, really only fought one person a a few monsters, and never went from rags to riches. But, I digress. Many people say that the only reason worth fighting for is the attempt to bring justice to those who do not have it.
What is justice? Is justice an ideal impartiality that makes decisions on the lawfulness of an action? - Who is impartial? Is justice the administration or the end result of the following of the law? - Whose law is used? Is justice being impartial, compartmentalized, and fair? - What is fair? Is justice conforming to the principles and ideals of one's metanarrative? - Can we do it?
God's justice seems to be mixed. God punishes the Israelites and other nations for their inabilities to follow Him alone, and this is just. God asks His people to care after those who cannot care for themselves (orphans, widows, those who are hungry, etc.), and this is just. According to Jesus, the justice of God exists when the blind see, the deaf hear, the lame walk, and the dead rise. According to Scripture, justice is not a shiny ideal created in the halls of the ivory towers. Justice is lived. "Love mercy, act justly, and walk humbly." Justice is an action.
In a fight between two parties, the "justice" system tries to find the guilty party and the oppressed party. The guilty party has some kind of sentence that is supposed to bring justice to the situation for all parties. However...if a woman is raped, justice for her is not merely the imprisonment of the guilty party. True Justice would have to take into account the fact that this woman has lost her sense of safety, of love, and of trust. True Justice would seek to correct the guilty parties problems by more than imprisonment. True Justice would recognize that justice cannot and does not occur on one day in a courtroom, but it will take a lifetime to create.
And, what is justice for countries? How much blood should be split before a country feels it has been justified? If the guilty party has been utterly destroyed, do we feel justified? If the death tools for both parties even out, do we deem that mission a justified mission? Whose justice does a country fight for? Can a dispute over apathy and faulty economics be settled by the banging of the war dreams and the slaughtering of thousands? Can a war over oppressive religious matters ever be solved by retributive justice or eye-for-an-eye vengeance?
Justice is God's work. True justice is not getting even. True justice is finding a way so that all parties (guilty and oppressed) will walk away with something to grow from. True Justice is not the implementation of the law process. True Justice is the willingness to judge and take on yourself the penalty. True Justice is not an ideal that can never be achieved. True Justice is real, lived, and experienced through the full life that comes with Jesus. It is experienced NOW, and it will continue forever.
What is justice? Is justice an ideal impartiality that makes decisions on the lawfulness of an action? - Who is impartial? Is justice the administration or the end result of the following of the law? - Whose law is used? Is justice being impartial, compartmentalized, and fair? - What is fair? Is justice conforming to the principles and ideals of one's metanarrative? - Can we do it?
God's justice seems to be mixed. God punishes the Israelites and other nations for their inabilities to follow Him alone, and this is just. God asks His people to care after those who cannot care for themselves (orphans, widows, those who are hungry, etc.), and this is just. According to Jesus, the justice of God exists when the blind see, the deaf hear, the lame walk, and the dead rise. According to Scripture, justice is not a shiny ideal created in the halls of the ivory towers. Justice is lived. "Love mercy, act justly, and walk humbly." Justice is an action.
In a fight between two parties, the "justice" system tries to find the guilty party and the oppressed party. The guilty party has some kind of sentence that is supposed to bring justice to the situation for all parties. However...if a woman is raped, justice for her is not merely the imprisonment of the guilty party. True Justice would have to take into account the fact that this woman has lost her sense of safety, of love, and of trust. True Justice would seek to correct the guilty parties problems by more than imprisonment. True Justice would recognize that justice cannot and does not occur on one day in a courtroom, but it will take a lifetime to create.
And, what is justice for countries? How much blood should be split before a country feels it has been justified? If the guilty party has been utterly destroyed, do we feel justified? If the death tools for both parties even out, do we deem that mission a justified mission? Whose justice does a country fight for? Can a dispute over apathy and faulty economics be settled by the banging of the war dreams and the slaughtering of thousands? Can a war over oppressive religious matters ever be solved by retributive justice or eye-for-an-eye vengeance?
Justice is God's work. True justice is not getting even. True justice is finding a way so that all parties (guilty and oppressed) will walk away with something to grow from. True Justice is not the implementation of the law process. True Justice is the willingness to judge and take on yourself the penalty. True Justice is not an ideal that can never be achieved. True Justice is real, lived, and experienced through the full life that comes with Jesus. It is experienced NOW, and it will continue forever.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
The Myth of Freedom
Ever since the beginning, humans have striven to create our own freedom. The temptation in the garden was more a question of whether Adam and Eve wanted the freedom offered by God or their own version of "freedom." They chose their own twisted, ironic version of "freedom," and we continue to play the same game today. Whose freedom do we want? Or, maybe more importantly, what is freedom?
Is freedom the ability to do whatever you want whenever you want to do it? Is freedom the feeling of knowing that no thing or person is in charge of you? Is freedom the result of a government, or is freedom the presupposition of a government? Is freedom merely a pipe-dream of post-Enlightenment thinking? Is freedom the state of being willing to chose without force? Are any of these actually ever completely possible?
John Meyer has a song that says belief should not be the basis on which anyone fights. I will go further, and risk placing my foot in my mouth, to say that we should never fight for the sake of something we struggle to define.
God's offer, in the beginning, was the freedom to walk within His world under His guidance. Freedom is not an absence of rules, authority, or order; nor is freedom the presence of a certain government, religion, or currency. Freedom is, quite simply, a life lived in such a manner that rules, government, order, and religion are not forced, coerced, or stated, but they are lived.
The offer of Christianity (in its purest form) is the opportunity to live within a story and existence of freedom. There is a better life offered that far surpasses morals, ethics, and "being good." There is a different freedom presented that exists IN THE MIDST OF slavery, persecution, and martyrdom. There is a story told that transcends language, position, patriotism, and gender. This story is the Gospel. Mere words cannot do it justice; it is best heard when lived.
Humans have tried to create their own idea of freedom only to become enslaved. Humans do not want freedom; we want slavery on our own terms. Do not confuse military success for freedom. Do not believe that financial gain will make you free either. Do not believe that politics can free you.
Freedom comes from knowing and living out the fact that there are two things that matter: 1) Loving God with everything and 2) Loving all others as if they were you. This is the life that brings freedom. This life may bring pain, discomfort, imprisonment, or death, but in the end they are the only things that matter. Because even in death, it is not over.
Is freedom the ability to do whatever you want whenever you want to do it? Is freedom the feeling of knowing that no thing or person is in charge of you? Is freedom the result of a government, or is freedom the presupposition of a government? Is freedom merely a pipe-dream of post-Enlightenment thinking? Is freedom the state of being willing to chose without force? Are any of these actually ever completely possible?
John Meyer has a song that says belief should not be the basis on which anyone fights. I will go further, and risk placing my foot in my mouth, to say that we should never fight for the sake of something we struggle to define.
God's offer, in the beginning, was the freedom to walk within His world under His guidance. Freedom is not an absence of rules, authority, or order; nor is freedom the presence of a certain government, religion, or currency. Freedom is, quite simply, a life lived in such a manner that rules, government, order, and religion are not forced, coerced, or stated, but they are lived.
The offer of Christianity (in its purest form) is the opportunity to live within a story and existence of freedom. There is a better life offered that far surpasses morals, ethics, and "being good." There is a different freedom presented that exists IN THE MIDST OF slavery, persecution, and martyrdom. There is a story told that transcends language, position, patriotism, and gender. This story is the Gospel. Mere words cannot do it justice; it is best heard when lived.
Humans have tried to create their own idea of freedom only to become enslaved. Humans do not want freedom; we want slavery on our own terms. Do not confuse military success for freedom. Do not believe that financial gain will make you free either. Do not believe that politics can free you.
Freedom comes from knowing and living out the fact that there are two things that matter: 1) Loving God with everything and 2) Loving all others as if they were you. This is the life that brings freedom. This life may bring pain, discomfort, imprisonment, or death, but in the end they are the only things that matter. Because even in death, it is not over.
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Buying In...
Do I really buy in to the fact that the kingdom life is present in the world, and I have an active role to play within it?
Yes. I am slowly seeking to find out what that looks like, but I am generally excited about the idea.
Do I buy into the fact that Jesus is the example toward whom I should imitate and follow?
Yes, but all too often I try to follow someone else. The tension I experience in this quest is not so much in the conflict of being like Christ so much as the conflict of being like every other story while trying to be like Christ.
Is there a danger within these two ideas?
Yes, a person who claims the above two statements fights the danger of believe that, because the Holy Spirit is in them and that they are the hands and feet of Jesus, they take the place of Jesus in the world. Also, they fight the danger of believing that it is up to them to bring the kingdom to its fullness (which it is not... that's God's job.)
Should the two ideas be thrown out because of the dangers?
BY NO MEANS!!! As a Christian, I recognize the life to which God calls me with the humility to understand that it is God who works in me as I work anything out.
Christians should be like "little Christs." Not in the sense that we believe that we can save the world on our own power... Instead, we should live in such a way that our relationship with God and God's presence in our life are obvious. We should live so hopeful and specifically Christian that people wonder what is different about us. We should live so much like Christ that the response to what is different about us is Christ.
Yes. I am slowly seeking to find out what that looks like, but I am generally excited about the idea.
Do I buy into the fact that Jesus is the example toward whom I should imitate and follow?
Yes, but all too often I try to follow someone else. The tension I experience in this quest is not so much in the conflict of being like Christ so much as the conflict of being like every other story while trying to be like Christ.
Is there a danger within these two ideas?
Yes, a person who claims the above two statements fights the danger of believe that, because the Holy Spirit is in them and that they are the hands and feet of Jesus, they take the place of Jesus in the world. Also, they fight the danger of believing that it is up to them to bring the kingdom to its fullness (which it is not... that's God's job.)
Should the two ideas be thrown out because of the dangers?
BY NO MEANS!!! As a Christian, I recognize the life to which God calls me with the humility to understand that it is God who works in me as I work anything out.
Christians should be like "little Christs." Not in the sense that we believe that we can save the world on our own power... Instead, we should live in such a way that our relationship with God and God's presence in our life are obvious. We should live so hopeful and specifically Christian that people wonder what is different about us. We should live so much like Christ that the response to what is different about us is Christ.
Friday, April 4, 2008
The Fundamental Re-Contextualization of Love 5
If Making love is the process of self-sacrificially giving for the benefit of another person in any and all relationships, we must ask the question of that which is beneficial. What is for the "good" of another? Up front, I must admit my biases. 1) I am a Christian. I am not interested in universal "goods" that all people in all situations will be able to grasp and apply. I am interested in a good that can only come from He who is Good embodied. 2) I am a male. I think that is enough said. 3) I am a United States citizen with post-Enlightenment philosophy and conservative Christian roots.
The Bible says that the strong should bear with the weak. It says that we should look not only to the good of our selves, but we should look to the good of others. It says that our attitude and mind should be the same as that of Jesus.
In light of these statements, we can reasonably assume that, for a Christian, the highest manner of showing good is manifested in Jesus. So, the question is how did Jesus work for the good of the people who did and did not follow him.
1) Doing good means meeting immediate needs. Food, water, healing, and the ability to work were all gifts that Jesus gave to people in the name of doing good.
2) Doing good means, at times, giving more than what was asked. Jesus constantly did more than give healing; he would often give embrace to those who were not considered worthy of embrace.
3) Doing good means creating a place of belonging. Jesus created a community of followers and embraced them in spite of and because of their failures.
4) Doing good means finding creative ways to serve. Feet washing is a classic example.
5) Doing good means forgiving sin. How can we do good to someone if all we see is a homosexual, an aborter, or a murderer? We must pray the prayer, "Father for give them because they do not know what they are doing." At times, we pray it when they do know what they are doing.
6) Doing good means calling to the process of repentance. Yes, there is a need to ask someone to turn from the current path. This MUST be done in truth and love. Without both love and truth, the gospel is rendered impotent.
7) Doing good means that, in all of this process, we must find the ability to walk within the context of those we seek to love. Jesus was God, and he became man. Surely, we can find the ability to be white and see the plight of the Invisible Children.
8) Doing good means sharing passion and experience. You cannot truly show love to someone until you are willing to walk, talk, and live with them.
9) Doing good means judging and being willing to take on another's judgment.
10) Doing good means making peace by taking the full weight of wrath and pain.
11) Doing good means serving, loving, and giving in the midst of pride, hate, indifference, and being taken advantage of.
In following the example of Christ, we can see what it means to make love and do good to our neighbors. Ultimately, the most beneficial thing one can do is show someone (by words or deeds) the One who is truly good.
The Bible says that the strong should bear with the weak. It says that we should look not only to the good of our selves, but we should look to the good of others. It says that our attitude and mind should be the same as that of Jesus.
In light of these statements, we can reasonably assume that, for a Christian, the highest manner of showing good is manifested in Jesus. So, the question is how did Jesus work for the good of the people who did and did not follow him.
1) Doing good means meeting immediate needs. Food, water, healing, and the ability to work were all gifts that Jesus gave to people in the name of doing good.
2) Doing good means, at times, giving more than what was asked. Jesus constantly did more than give healing; he would often give embrace to those who were not considered worthy of embrace.
3) Doing good means creating a place of belonging. Jesus created a community of followers and embraced them in spite of and because of their failures.
4) Doing good means finding creative ways to serve. Feet washing is a classic example.
5) Doing good means forgiving sin. How can we do good to someone if all we see is a homosexual, an aborter, or a murderer? We must pray the prayer, "Father for give them because they do not know what they are doing." At times, we pray it when they do know what they are doing.
6) Doing good means calling to the process of repentance. Yes, there is a need to ask someone to turn from the current path. This MUST be done in truth and love. Without both love and truth, the gospel is rendered impotent.
7) Doing good means that, in all of this process, we must find the ability to walk within the context of those we seek to love. Jesus was God, and he became man. Surely, we can find the ability to be white and see the plight of the Invisible Children.
8) Doing good means sharing passion and experience. You cannot truly show love to someone until you are willing to walk, talk, and live with them.
9) Doing good means judging and being willing to take on another's judgment.
10) Doing good means making peace by taking the full weight of wrath and pain.
11) Doing good means serving, loving, and giving in the midst of pride, hate, indifference, and being taken advantage of.
In following the example of Christ, we can see what it means to make love and do good to our neighbors. Ultimately, the most beneficial thing one can do is show someone (by words or deeds) the One who is truly good.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
The Fundamental Re-Contextualization of Love 4
In light of the present milieu of unhealthy and unbiblical models of love and sex, I desire to present an alternative re-imagining of love. In order for this to occur, we must first ask a question popularized by Saturday Night Live, "What is love?"
The Bible nerd within me jumps, and it says, "Greater love has no man than this; that he would lay down his life for a friend." And, this statement is true. But, is it really that simple? It the concept of sacrifice the defining practice of love?
In Greek, there are three words for love: Phileo, Eros, and Agape. Phileo and agape are often used interchangeably throughout the New Testament. They are almost always presented as the word "love." A nuanced approach to these words reveals an understanding of phileo meaning "brotherly love" and agape meaning "unconditional love." However, this is not always true. Agape is often used as the equivalent to the Hebrew word "hesed" which means a host of things including "covenantal love" in the Septuagint. The only clear definition of the three words is that Eros means "passionate love."
Using these three words, we can surmise a helpful philosophy of love.
First, love has an aspect of Friendship. This friendship love is expressed to the extent that it can be equated to covenant love. This love is shown in the love between Jonathan and David in the book of Samuel. Friendship stands in the face of pain and oppression (Jonathan's dad tried to kill David, but Jonathan saved him.) Friendship is willing to give of one's self for each other (Jonathan was the presupposed heir to the throne, but he gave it willingly to David.) Friendship focuses on a shared experience of life (Jonathan and David related and love one another.)
Second, love has an aspect of Commitment. This part of love is the least fun for most people. I would argue that this aspect is the determining factor for the strength of the other two. When David and Jonathan go through common experiences and show love to each other, they symbolize the commitment with one another by making a covenant. In this covenant, Jonathan promises to keep David safe, and David promises to not kill all of Jonathan's family when he comes to power. Each of the men follow through with their commitments.
Lastly, love has an aspect of Passion. It is ironic that the ordeal that Jesus undertook at the cross is considered the "passion," but we often say we are passionate about so much. I would argue that "the passion of Jesus Christ" is the fullest expression of living and loving (with the obvious irony that it caused his death intended.) To love is to give of one's self to another. A manifestation of that giving is sex, but I would argue that sex is not the best or highest way to give of one's self. This passion is expressed not by action but by lifestyle. If Jesus lived a selfish life, love no one, and died on the cross, the death means nothing. The death (and subsequent resurrection) mean everything because Jesus lived a life of self-giving.
To my original question: Is love as simple as sacrifice for the benefit of another? Yes. Yes, in the sense that a lifestyle of sacrifice in a prerequisite for love. Yes, in the sense that an unloving or non-beneficial sacrifice is not a true sacrifice but an act of mere obedience. Yes, in the sense that love is not merely meeting my needs but being in a relationship of mutual sacrifice and needs-meeting. Yes, in the sense that a community of sacrificial people has no needy among them. Yes, in the sense that to love is to give of one's self.
This love can be given, is given, and can be taken by everyone.
Making love, therefore, is the process of self-sacrificially giving for the benefit of another person in any and all relationships.
However, we must now define what is beneficial...
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
The Fundamental Re-Contextualization of Love 3
Or better titled, The Influence of Song of Solomon in Community, but I will keep the theme for the sake of consistency and reference. This is the third note in my love series right now. And, I predict that this may step on a few toes. That being said, the toes that this note will step on do not use Facebook or blog all that much, so I think I am safe.
Evangelical, Conservative, Protestant Christians believe that all scripture is God-breathed. So, we (I chose to align with this group because the alternative offered is not helpful) say that we trust and believe in the Bible as the Word of God for all people. In that light, many sermons in these churches will likely get a response from the worshipers that the preacher "just preaches the Bible." As ironic, misguided, and arrogant as that last statement is, it is generally true that the qualifier for a good preacher in this group is a person who brings the Word to life. He takes stories, parables, sermons, and revelations, and he brings these works into a new light for today.
As a ECPC, I can say that I have never heard a sermon on Song of Solomon. But you may ask, why is that important? I believe it is a hint at something much deeper. But, before move to us, let us look back.
The Hebrew Scriptures, the first 39 books of the Bible, have many different genres. Law, story, history, name lists, poetry, and apocalyptic literature. All of these have specific methods to convey information. (In other words, if you took Psalms as a Law book, you would have to literally dash babies against rocks.) Within this God-breathed work, there are countless stories of God working in human history. Sadly, humans rarely get it right, so there are plenty of failure stories in the Bible, which help me more than the stories of "perfect people." Packed in the middle of stories of death, murder, lies, deceit, and coveting are stories of lust, homosexuality, adultery, and sex. The story of Joseph running away from Potipher's wife is juxtaposed to Judah's sexual adventure with his dead son's wife - Tamar. (Strangely, it is from this union of Judah and Tamar that Jesus will come.) David, the Israelite king and hero, is seduced by Bathsheba. (Coincidentally, Jesus will come from Solomon's line , David and Bathsheba's second son.) Then, there is a whole book called Song of Songs (or Solomon) right after Ecclesiastes. The book is all about sex, and it is at times awkwardly graphic with its descriptions. The sexual advances and pick up lines do not transfer today, but the community of Israel somehow used this book to form their faith.
What is your point, Robert? My point is simply this: we have made sex taboo, and THAT is part of the problem. We laugh at sex. We feel dirty and guilty if we even talk about sex with other people. We feel uncomfortable when our parents tell us about sex (often two years too late.) And, we can only giggle when the STD talk comes. So, how could you ever find a healthy expression of sex if you cannot talk about it? The answer to that question brings us to a sad fact: most people turn to their friends, the culture, or their current significant other instead of the people of God, the Spirit of God, and God's Word. Without a healthy DIALOG about sex and love, there cannot ever be a healthy PRACTICE of sex and love.
The importance of Song of Solomon in the Hebrew Scriptures is that it shows us that God's goal for His people was to talk about sex and love together. The goal was to grow together, to learn together, and to fail together. The people of God must break the taboo that says we cannot talk about sex or love, and we must speak about it in more than just "do not do it before you are married." We must give healthy expressions of love, and we must be comfortable with ourselves and sexuality enough to talk.
There I said it: Silence is part of the problem!
Evangelical, Conservative, Protestant Christians believe that all scripture is God-breathed. So, we (I chose to align with this group because the alternative offered is not helpful) say that we trust and believe in the Bible as the Word of God for all people. In that light, many sermons in these churches will likely get a response from the worshipers that the preacher "just preaches the Bible." As ironic, misguided, and arrogant as that last statement is, it is generally true that the qualifier for a good preacher in this group is a person who brings the Word to life. He takes stories, parables, sermons, and revelations, and he brings these works into a new light for today.
As a ECPC, I can say that I have never heard a sermon on Song of Solomon. But you may ask, why is that important? I believe it is a hint at something much deeper. But, before move to us, let us look back.
The Hebrew Scriptures, the first 39 books of the Bible, have many different genres. Law, story, history, name lists, poetry, and apocalyptic literature. All of these have specific methods to convey information. (In other words, if you took Psalms as a Law book, you would have to literally dash babies against rocks.) Within this God-breathed work, there are countless stories of God working in human history. Sadly, humans rarely get it right, so there are plenty of failure stories in the Bible, which help me more than the stories of "perfect people." Packed in the middle of stories of death, murder, lies, deceit, and coveting are stories of lust, homosexuality, adultery, and sex. The story of Joseph running away from Potipher's wife is juxtaposed to Judah's sexual adventure with his dead son's wife - Tamar. (Strangely, it is from this union of Judah and Tamar that Jesus will come.) David, the Israelite king and hero, is seduced by Bathsheba. (Coincidentally, Jesus will come from Solomon's line , David and Bathsheba's second son.) Then, there is a whole book called Song of Songs (or Solomon) right after Ecclesiastes. The book is all about sex, and it is at times awkwardly graphic with its descriptions. The sexual advances and pick up lines do not transfer today, but the community of Israel somehow used this book to form their faith.
What is your point, Robert? My point is simply this: we have made sex taboo, and THAT is part of the problem. We laugh at sex. We feel dirty and guilty if we even talk about sex with other people. We feel uncomfortable when our parents tell us about sex (often two years too late.) And, we can only giggle when the STD talk comes. So, how could you ever find a healthy expression of sex if you cannot talk about it? The answer to that question brings us to a sad fact: most people turn to their friends, the culture, or their current significant other instead of the people of God, the Spirit of God, and God's Word. Without a healthy DIALOG about sex and love, there cannot ever be a healthy PRACTICE of sex and love.
The importance of Song of Solomon in the Hebrew Scriptures is that it shows us that God's goal for His people was to talk about sex and love together. The goal was to grow together, to learn together, and to fail together. The people of God must break the taboo that says we cannot talk about sex or love, and we must speak about it in more than just "do not do it before you are married." We must give healthy expressions of love, and we must be comfortable with ourselves and sexuality enough to talk.
There I said it: Silence is part of the problem!
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The Fundamental Re-Contextualization of Love 2
Or... Why Genesis 1 is a really big deal... I could not figure out which title to go with, so I figured I would offer both. Again, we are exploring a healthy view of both love and sexuality in these notes. Ideally, the simplest expressions that we find to be true should be for all people in all relationship statuses. However, the deepest expressions should be manifested within the highest relationship statuses (i.e. marriage and family.)
Genesis 1: 26 says that God created male and female in God's own image. The Hebrew word for God is Elohim, which hints to the fact that God is plural and yet one in the Hebrew language. Elohim says, "Let us make man in our image." So, Elohim creates man and woman in His own image and in His own likeness. Later on in the book we call Scripture, a poet will say that Elohim "knitted him together in his mother's womb." Also, at the heart of the Israelite's Torah (covenant guidelines) are the 10 Commandments. Three of these commandments deal with man's relationship with Elohim, and the other seven are the basis for man's relationship with man. Therefore, at the heart of Elohim's intent for His people, a relationship between one man, who is made in the likeness of God, and another man, who is also made in the likeness of God, must be in some sense governed by God. (Strangely, God does not mandate marriage, but He assumes it by giving a command for no adultery. Therefore, the pre-Torah community of Israel must have had the practice of marriage in existence already for the "adultery" command to make any difference.) These universal and community-based commands ensure that love exists within God's people.
This makes a difference in our discussion of love and sexuality because all (both genders) of our relationships must first be filtered through the fact that both parties are made in the image and likeness of God. Your wife, your husband, your girlfriend, your boyfriend, and the person whose picture is on the internet is made in the image and likeness of God. Your best friend, your worst enemy, your casual acquaintance, your restaurant waitress, and the guys sitting in front of you in bumper to bumper traffic gabbing endlessly on a cell phone are all made in the image and likeness of God. The relationship you have with that person must therefore be governed by God's intent for that relationship. While the Torah (and any law for that matter) at its worst is manifested in legalism, God's intent for the Torah was to promote healthy expressions of love and life for the whole Israelite community.
This is quite simply why Jesus said that all of the Law and Prophets are manifested by and can be summed in saying, "Love God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And, love your neighbor as yourself." Why? Loving the Creator means loving all the things that are created and far more so for the things that are created in His image and likeness.
In short, Genesis 1 says that every person, whether in God's people or out, is made in the image and likeness of God, and each of them have unimaginable and extraordinary significance and value.
Genesis 1: 26 says that God created male and female in God's own image. The Hebrew word for God is Elohim, which hints to the fact that God is plural and yet one in the Hebrew language. Elohim says, "Let us make man in our image." So, Elohim creates man and woman in His own image and in His own likeness. Later on in the book we call Scripture, a poet will say that Elohim "knitted him together in his mother's womb." Also, at the heart of the Israelite's Torah (covenant guidelines) are the 10 Commandments. Three of these commandments deal with man's relationship with Elohim, and the other seven are the basis for man's relationship with man. Therefore, at the heart of Elohim's intent for His people, a relationship between one man, who is made in the likeness of God, and another man, who is also made in the likeness of God, must be in some sense governed by God. (Strangely, God does not mandate marriage, but He assumes it by giving a command for no adultery. Therefore, the pre-Torah community of Israel must have had the practice of marriage in existence already for the "adultery" command to make any difference.) These universal and community-based commands ensure that love exists within God's people.
This makes a difference in our discussion of love and sexuality because all (both genders) of our relationships must first be filtered through the fact that both parties are made in the image and likeness of God. Your wife, your husband, your girlfriend, your boyfriend, and the person whose picture is on the internet is made in the image and likeness of God. Your best friend, your worst enemy, your casual acquaintance, your restaurant waitress, and the guys sitting in front of you in bumper to bumper traffic gabbing endlessly on a cell phone are all made in the image and likeness of God. The relationship you have with that person must therefore be governed by God's intent for that relationship. While the Torah (and any law for that matter) at its worst is manifested in legalism, God's intent for the Torah was to promote healthy expressions of love and life for the whole Israelite community.
This is quite simply why Jesus said that all of the Law and Prophets are manifested by and can be summed in saying, "Love God with all of your heart, soul, mind, and strength. And, love your neighbor as yourself." Why? Loving the Creator means loving all the things that are created and far more so for the things that are created in His image and likeness.
In short, Genesis 1 says that every person, whether in God's people or out, is made in the image and likeness of God, and each of them have unimaginable and extraordinary significance and value.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
The Fundamental Re-Contextualization of Love 1
I am discontent with the manner in which love, sex, and relationship talks have been presented to teenagers for quite some time. I want to attempt to correct some flaws, mistakes, and abuses with my teaching on this subject. And, I want to offer hope, redemption, and a better way.
On the one hand, students have the typical response to anything "borderline" within the Christian understanding: Run as far away from it as possible! So, you have groups like "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" who have a hybrid "wait until you're older/group date/arranged marriage" model. While I have occasionally seen this model work, I have also seen it cause 1) sexual issues within marriage or relationships and 2) unresolved sexual and relationship anxiety within teenagers (and we all know that there is enough of that without sex getting involved.) This model, much like prohibition, has ironically caused many students to violently rebel against it. The students experience some joys within the sphere of relationships by "rebelling" (because relationships are not inherently wrong), and they do not immediately feel guilty or condemned. On the contrary, they feel liberated. Unfortunately, this is where the story normally takes a turn for the worse. Because there is no framework for healthy sexual expression or relationship management, the students venture into the wilderness without guidance or help (and often the opposite reactions of condemnation and guilt trips result.) With no presentation of expressing love other than history, media, and culture, the students will often learn to "make love" just like in the movies. In short, by forcing students to abstain from something that is good but can become twisted, this model quickly becomes an unneeded enslavement that normally results in an unguided, undisciplined, and unsupported exodus.
On the other hand, students are daily inundated by a sex-saturated culture that seems to portray that the only true way to express love to someone is sex (thus the term, make love.) Movies, music, and television shows continually show the grim reality that culture has no healthy manner to express love to anyone other than sex. Homosexuality is glorified mostly because there is no healthy, non-taboo way to functionally show love to someone of the same gender. And, if culture's primary expression of love is sex, the obvious reality is that love is shown to the same gender. Therefore, culture's highest expression of same-gender love is homosexuality. My question is merely: why are we surprised? There are few healthy alternatives to culture's predominated theory on love and sex. The saddest expressions and problems with culture's alternative to love and sex is the fact that often 1) people become objects that serve a physical purpose, 2) no presentation of healthy sexuality is offered, and 3) the "liberation" is often a gateway to a new, but tragically different, enslavement. Quite simply, culture offers freedom to explore relationships. In short, culture's model offers liberation but no guidance or boundaries.
As you can see, both models leave students in some sort of new land with no guidance, no boundaries, and no support system. Both models are obviously too far on the extremes to either do any functional good. Both models ultimately lead students to a land of slavery instead of being set free. Both models do more harm than good.
As we progress in talking about a new model, think through the implications, the expressions, and the manifestations of any new model set forth. In the end, we need to not be shaped by culture or a reaction to culture. In the end, we must be shaped by the Spirit that dwells in us and Scripture.
On the one hand, students have the typical response to anything "borderline" within the Christian understanding: Run as far away from it as possible! So, you have groups like "I Kissed Dating Goodbye" who have a hybrid "wait until you're older/group date/arranged marriage" model. While I have occasionally seen this model work, I have also seen it cause 1) sexual issues within marriage or relationships and 2) unresolved sexual and relationship anxiety within teenagers (and we all know that there is enough of that without sex getting involved.) This model, much like prohibition, has ironically caused many students to violently rebel against it. The students experience some joys within the sphere of relationships by "rebelling" (because relationships are not inherently wrong), and they do not immediately feel guilty or condemned. On the contrary, they feel liberated. Unfortunately, this is where the story normally takes a turn for the worse. Because there is no framework for healthy sexual expression or relationship management, the students venture into the wilderness without guidance or help (and often the opposite reactions of condemnation and guilt trips result.) With no presentation of expressing love other than history, media, and culture, the students will often learn to "make love" just like in the movies. In short, by forcing students to abstain from something that is good but can become twisted, this model quickly becomes an unneeded enslavement that normally results in an unguided, undisciplined, and unsupported exodus.
On the other hand, students are daily inundated by a sex-saturated culture that seems to portray that the only true way to express love to someone is sex (thus the term, make love.) Movies, music, and television shows continually show the grim reality that culture has no healthy manner to express love to anyone other than sex. Homosexuality is glorified mostly because there is no healthy, non-taboo way to functionally show love to someone of the same gender. And, if culture's primary expression of love is sex, the obvious reality is that love is shown to the same gender. Therefore, culture's highest expression of same-gender love is homosexuality. My question is merely: why are we surprised? There are few healthy alternatives to culture's predominated theory on love and sex. The saddest expressions and problems with culture's alternative to love and sex is the fact that often 1) people become objects that serve a physical purpose, 2) no presentation of healthy sexuality is offered, and 3) the "liberation" is often a gateway to a new, but tragically different, enslavement. Quite simply, culture offers freedom to explore relationships. In short, culture's model offers liberation but no guidance or boundaries.
As you can see, both models leave students in some sort of new land with no guidance, no boundaries, and no support system. Both models are obviously too far on the extremes to either do any functional good. Both models ultimately lead students to a land of slavery instead of being set free. Both models do more harm than good.
As we progress in talking about a new model, think through the implications, the expressions, and the manifestations of any new model set forth. In the end, we need to not be shaped by culture or a reaction to culture. In the end, we must be shaped by the Spirit that dwells in us and Scripture.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Thinking Out Loud...
1) Braveheart, The Matrix, and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade are currently rotating through my favorite movies of all time.
2) Antje Duvekot's "Merry-Go-Round", Ben's Brother's "Stuttering", and Yael Naim's "New Soul" are my top songs right now.
3) I strongly suggest reading "The Challenge of Jesus" by N.T. Wright and "The Shaping of Things to Come" by Frost and Hirsch.
4) I am sad that "The Class" and "Raines" have gone off the air, but I am slightly satisfied by "LOST", "Pushing Daises", and "Journeyman."
I wish we could change our view of the Kingdom of God being in this "I'll Fly Away" model of heaven to the view of the kingdom being "on earth as it is in heaven." Then, heaven is actually a more full expression of what we are trying (imperfectly) to accomplish here and now. The way I see it currently, we are not trying to accomplish anything here and now, so we are trying to give people tickets to heaven. But, what if Christians did not give tickets to heaven... what if we gave snapshots of heaven?
2) Antje Duvekot's "Merry-Go-Round", Ben's Brother's "Stuttering", and Yael Naim's "New Soul" are my top songs right now.
3) I strongly suggest reading "The Challenge of Jesus" by N.T. Wright and "The Shaping of Things to Come" by Frost and Hirsch.
4) I am sad that "The Class" and "Raines" have gone off the air, but I am slightly satisfied by "LOST", "Pushing Daises", and "Journeyman."
I wish we could change our view of the Kingdom of God being in this "I'll Fly Away" model of heaven to the view of the kingdom being "on earth as it is in heaven." Then, heaven is actually a more full expression of what we are trying (imperfectly) to accomplish here and now. The way I see it currently, we are not trying to accomplish anything here and now, so we are trying to give people tickets to heaven. But, what if Christians did not give tickets to heaven... what if we gave snapshots of heaven?
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Winterfest 2008 and GACS 2002
I just got back from my 11th Winterfest experience. I have attended this "largest assembly of Churches of Christ" in four different functions over the years (student, chaperon, adult volunteer, and youth minister.) Youth minister was by far the most demanding, but it was also by far the most rewarding. I can honestly say that I have the greatest students in the world within my ministry. Jeff Walling changed gears this year in his subject matter and presentation, which is a blessing. He talked about missions and evangelism. For those of you who do not know, there has been a major shift in the expectation and the proclamation of the "Good News" in the last decade or so. It has mainly been spear-headed by Frost and Hirsh's book "The Shaping of Things to Come", the emerging church movement, the evolution of the already-not yet existence of the Kingdom of God, and the philosophical shift from modernity to postmodernity. In short the shift is from "telling people about the God they never knew" to "pointing where God is already active in people's lives." It was great to hear a respected leader from the Stone-Campbell movement speak about it.
Also, I just got through flipping through the profile pictures of my classmates who graduated from Greater Atlanta Christian School in 2002. It is great to see where people have gone, what people have done, and who these people have become. It was great to see pictures of beautiful little babies, little cousins, and wedding ceremonies. It was great to see so many finished up with college, working on Masters, and living all over the world. It was great to see the happiness and smiles of people with whom I spent seven years. It is amazing to see the growth (literally and figuratively) of those people. I am grateful for my years with these people, and I would not take it back for the world. That being said, I would not want to live it over again either. (And, the people who say that they would are either lying or were on heavy "medication" during high school.) It is a chapter of my life that I am grateful for and will never forget.
Also, I just got through flipping through the profile pictures of my classmates who graduated from Greater Atlanta Christian School in 2002. It is great to see where people have gone, what people have done, and who these people have become. It was great to see pictures of beautiful little babies, little cousins, and wedding ceremonies. It was great to see so many finished up with college, working on Masters, and living all over the world. It was great to see the happiness and smiles of people with whom I spent seven years. It is amazing to see the growth (literally and figuratively) of those people. I am grateful for my years with these people, and I would not take it back for the world. That being said, I would not want to live it over again either. (And, the people who say that they would are either lying or were on heavy "medication" during high school.) It is a chapter of my life that I am grateful for and will never forget.
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Walls, Buses, and Runs
I believe that I have hit a literary wall. I am currently reading three books. Two of these books must have papers written about them for the weekend after Winterfest (oh, joy...) And, one of them needs to be finished by Grad class tonight. All of this being said, I am finding it very difficult to motivate myself to read any more about telos and virtues... I know I must push on and "fight the good fight" or (insert your own spiritual over-used maxim), but I am finding it difficult to desire to read about philosophy and ethics. Maybe it is just me, but I think that the Spirit and Word either cause you to have a different ethic or you are shooting blanks in the dark.
On another note, I like short buses now. It is not that I find them as funny as I used to (although I do enjoy the occasional put down), but I have realized that special education has figured a few things out that "normal" (terrible word) education could truly learn from. We need to downsize classes, higher more teachers, be more relational, find individual learning styles, and care more about kids. I believe that we would be able to deal with and teach about more.
I have not been involved in any major running or sporting activity for far too long. As a result, I believe I am beginning to suffer from some kind of stomach pain and discomfort on a fairly consistent basis. I must learn some kind of exercise that can be accomplished from the comfort of your own home or very near by. Or, maybe more likely, I must actually find time and be more disciplined about working out in some way.
On another note, I like short buses now. It is not that I find them as funny as I used to (although I do enjoy the occasional put down), but I have realized that special education has figured a few things out that "normal" (terrible word) education could truly learn from. We need to downsize classes, higher more teachers, be more relational, find individual learning styles, and care more about kids. I believe that we would be able to deal with and teach about more.
I have not been involved in any major running or sporting activity for far too long. As a result, I believe I am beginning to suffer from some kind of stomach pain and discomfort on a fairly consistent basis. I must learn some kind of exercise that can be accomplished from the comfort of your own home or very near by. Or, maybe more likely, I must actually find time and be more disciplined about working out in some way.
Friday, February 8, 2008
Random Trivia, Good Website, and Thoughts
1) In 20 games and two seasons, the last two NFL quarterbacks to beat the Patriots have the last name "Manning." (Last year's AFC championship-Peyton and this year's Super Bowl-Eli.)
2) "The Three Musketeers" is written by Alexandre Dumas (Not the pronunciation from Shawshank Redemption.)
3) The most published, printed, and stolen book in the world is the Bible.
4) Every 15 second someone will die as a result of drinking dirty water.
This (http://www.angryalien.com) could be the funniest site I have seen in a long time.
I am slowly reading through Yoder's book "The Politics of Jesus." In light of the recent climate of political propagation, I figure it would be at least interesting to figure out what Jesus may have to say about all of this (through at least one man's eyes.) Here is my new motto on politics and life: The less we allow God's word and spirit to steer the direction of all our decisions; the more we will be blown by the winds of culture. Take that however you want to.
At the very least, I ask all people who claim the name of Christ as their savior, model for example, and ultimate president/king/lord to remove harsh words of judgment toward any constituent of any political party. In the end, God is not a democrat, republican, or libertarian. For that matter, God is not white, middle-class American. He came as a middle-eastern, Jewish, construction-working peasant. And, if anything, God is a theocrat.
2) "The Three Musketeers" is written by Alexandre Dumas (Not the pronunciation from Shawshank Redemption.)
3) The most published, printed, and stolen book in the world is the Bible.
4) Every 15 second someone will die as a result of drinking dirty water.
This (http://www.angryalien.com) could be the funniest site I have seen in a long time.
I am slowly reading through Yoder's book "The Politics of Jesus." In light of the recent climate of political propagation, I figure it would be at least interesting to figure out what Jesus may have to say about all of this (through at least one man's eyes.) Here is my new motto on politics and life: The less we allow God's word and spirit to steer the direction of all our decisions; the more we will be blown by the winds of culture. Take that however you want to.
At the very least, I ask all people who claim the name of Christ as their savior, model for example, and ultimate president/king/lord to remove harsh words of judgment toward any constituent of any political party. In the end, God is not a democrat, republican, or libertarian. For that matter, God is not white, middle-class American. He came as a middle-eastern, Jewish, construction-working peasant. And, if anything, God is a theocrat.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Giant's Tyree, The Shack, and Jesus
I watched an interview on ESPN yesterday in which a Giant's receiver, David Tyree, was talking about the Super Bowl and, in particular, his participation in it. Tyree, who was on the receiving end of what is considered one of the greatest plays in the history of the Super Bowl, made a statement that seems normal or expected on the onset, but it shows something much deeper. He said that "I feel like God has guided and directed all of his life for this one moment." Wow! I mean that is a cool statement. However, that is one heck of a downer. What do you do when you wake up tomorrow? What about next season? Do you wake up and replay the catch over and over to relive the climax of your life? Do you play seasons to try and recapture the magic of that one play?
Is that what we are telling our kids in Sunday School? "Listen, kids." the teacher says, "One day you will all grow up big and tall, and, if you really love and trust God, He will guide and direct you to do something truly great as the climax of your life. Like...catch an inspiring pass towards the end of a Super Bowl game at the age of 28. No, Timmy... not relieving oppression, not alleviating hunger and thirst, not salving hurts and sickness, not eliminating war, not promoting peace without violence, not forgiving and reconciling the most painful pains in the world, and not participating in the dynamic Kingdom of Heaven that is here on this earth as it is in heaven... No students, God will guide and direct you to fame, money, influence, and highlight reals. He will guide you to a 25 yard pass on a 3rd Down that needed 10 yards that will set up a first down and a game-winning touchdown 30 seconds later to one of your teammates in the biggest and last game of the season in a sport called professional football. Then, you will know that this was your purpose in life."
Do not get me wrong. I think that Tyree was speaking from his heart and competitive emotion, and I do not want to downplay (too much) his faith claim because it is important to hear that from sport stars (and anyone for that matter.) But, maybe God had guided him to that point and place, and he blew it. He had the stage and the opportunity to tell the world about his God, but he focused on the catch. He had the opportunity to tell about his faith, and (I fear) he did. However, I want no part of a health-and-wealth, immaculate reception, God-will-bless-you-if-you-do-good Gospel. If our faith is moving us toward moments that will become cool highlights, interesting statistics, or forgetful memories, I am out!
O, for a Faith that desires more than this world and this culture has to offer! O, for a God who guides us to moments of true greatness for His glory! O, for the Mindset that desires to become less so that God will become more! O, for 1000 tongues to sing of the great REDEEMER's praise (not ours) because of what we do in the world!
Also, I recently finished a book called "The Shack" by a man named William Young. This is a touching story about a father who loses his daughter at an early age. This fanciful and mysterious story has been heralded as the next "Pilgrim's Progress." It is a great read. It is emotionally tugging, and it has the amazing ability to have anyone project his or her self into the story. I highly recommend this book for your reading pleasure.
I am trying to become aware of any ways in which I can live missionally in ministry. Quite simply, the whole idea of the movement is a non-institutional, grass roots assembly of believers. And, I love and embrace that idea. But, I also have a heart for those in the "system" now. I want them to embrace it as well. I think it starts with me, so I am trying to see what I can do and who I can be.
Is that what we are telling our kids in Sunday School? "Listen, kids." the teacher says, "One day you will all grow up big and tall, and, if you really love and trust God, He will guide and direct you to do something truly great as the climax of your life. Like...catch an inspiring pass towards the end of a Super Bowl game at the age of 28. No, Timmy... not relieving oppression, not alleviating hunger and thirst, not salving hurts and sickness, not eliminating war, not promoting peace without violence, not forgiving and reconciling the most painful pains in the world, and not participating in the dynamic Kingdom of Heaven that is here on this earth as it is in heaven... No students, God will guide and direct you to fame, money, influence, and highlight reals. He will guide you to a 25 yard pass on a 3rd Down that needed 10 yards that will set up a first down and a game-winning touchdown 30 seconds later to one of your teammates in the biggest and last game of the season in a sport called professional football. Then, you will know that this was your purpose in life."
Do not get me wrong. I think that Tyree was speaking from his heart and competitive emotion, and I do not want to downplay (too much) his faith claim because it is important to hear that from sport stars (and anyone for that matter.) But, maybe God had guided him to that point and place, and he blew it. He had the stage and the opportunity to tell the world about his God, but he focused on the catch. He had the opportunity to tell about his faith, and (I fear) he did. However, I want no part of a health-and-wealth, immaculate reception, God-will-bless-you-if-you-do-good Gospel. If our faith is moving us toward moments that will become cool highlights, interesting statistics, or forgetful memories, I am out!
O, for a Faith that desires more than this world and this culture has to offer! O, for a God who guides us to moments of true greatness for His glory! O, for the Mindset that desires to become less so that God will become more! O, for 1000 tongues to sing of the great REDEEMER's praise (not ours) because of what we do in the world!
Also, I recently finished a book called "The Shack" by a man named William Young. This is a touching story about a father who loses his daughter at an early age. This fanciful and mysterious story has been heralded as the next "Pilgrim's Progress." It is a great read. It is emotionally tugging, and it has the amazing ability to have anyone project his or her self into the story. I highly recommend this book for your reading pleasure.
I am trying to become aware of any ways in which I can live missionally in ministry. Quite simply, the whole idea of the movement is a non-institutional, grass roots assembly of believers. And, I love and embrace that idea. But, I also have a heart for those in the "system" now. I want them to embrace it as well. I think it starts with me, so I am trying to see what I can do and who I can be.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Gospels Every Month... Progress
I made a commitment this year to my students that I would read every Gospel (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) at least once a month outside of my studies for school and church. I have already finished Matthew, Mark, and John this month. And, I am currently working through Luke right now. After I finish Luke, I will try to read Acts to listen to what Luke was trying to do with his two volumes.
January's Gospel Thoughts:
1) I am shocked at Jesus' ability to say what he wanted to say but in a way that was forceful and hidden.
2) It is interesting to hear the Sermon on the Mount through new eyes and within its context.
3) I love hearing the urgency to write the story by Mark, the love-lens of John, and the Jewish bias of Matthew.
4) Luke is the longest of the Gospels on audiobook (2 hours, 41 minutes, and 15 seconds.)
5) Mark is by far the shortest book on audiobook (1 hour, 34 minutes, and 37 seconds.)
I was at a unity prayer service in Nashville a few days ago. The speaker told a story about a music teacher who was trying to pick out a piano for use in a college. For two hours, the teacher tuned and played the pianos. However, he did not tune the pianos to each other (otherwise they would be off by the end.) He tuned the pianos to a tuner. The speaker said that the only way our lives with be unified will be for us to not tune our lives on the churches but to Christ. I pray that I will do this during this year and the rest of my life.
January's Gospel Thoughts:
1) I am shocked at Jesus' ability to say what he wanted to say but in a way that was forceful and hidden.
2) It is interesting to hear the Sermon on the Mount through new eyes and within its context.
3) I love hearing the urgency to write the story by Mark, the love-lens of John, and the Jewish bias of Matthew.
4) Luke is the longest of the Gospels on audiobook (2 hours, 41 minutes, and 15 seconds.)
5) Mark is by far the shortest book on audiobook (1 hour, 34 minutes, and 37 seconds.)
I was at a unity prayer service in Nashville a few days ago. The speaker told a story about a music teacher who was trying to pick out a piano for use in a college. For two hours, the teacher tuned and played the pianos. However, he did not tune the pianos to each other (otherwise they would be off by the end.) He tuned the pianos to a tuner. The speaker said that the only way our lives with be unified will be for us to not tune our lives on the churches but to Christ. I pray that I will do this during this year and the rest of my life.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
The Shaping of Things to Come
Two months ago, I finished a book that will become one of the formative texts for a number of Christian movements. As I mentioned in my previous post, the church (institutional) has often measured their worth and commitment by the values that are based on Ego as the worldview. at youth ministry conferences, we ask numbers, budget, and programs. We ask about baptism and study methods. And, the people who speak at the events are people who have found "success" by using this program. Thus, the program is validated by the tangible results.
If the cross should be our worldview, what should be our standard or markers of validation? In other words, what are markers that would show that we are faithfully following Jesus?
I believe that we must take on a new vision of what are churches should look like. Often when Jesus told people what it would mean to follow him (i.e. eat his flesh, drink his blood, not be drink, etc.), the people would leave because of it. Maybe our churches should not be getting bigger, but they should be getting smaller. Maybe the marker we are seeing of "growth" is the fact that we are really not teaching people how to be disciples of Jesus.
Maybe we need to form communities that take very seriously the call to hold each other accountable, to bear one another's burdens, to love in and out, to praise God in assembly and in life, to bear witness that the Good News of the ability to be a part of God's Kingdom in the World (NOW and later) is available as a gift, and to learn daily what it means to take up our crosses and follow Jesus.
And, yes, I do believe that our current system does not do these things well. It has hints of all of them.
So, may the Spirit of God, who also rested on Jesus, rest on us. And, my that Spirit do things through us that we would not have thought possible. When it happens, may we give glory to God who does so much more than we could even think. And, it will ONLY be through Him that anything happens.
If the cross should be our worldview, what should be our standard or markers of validation? In other words, what are markers that would show that we are faithfully following Jesus?
I believe that we must take on a new vision of what are churches should look like. Often when Jesus told people what it would mean to follow him (i.e. eat his flesh, drink his blood, not be drink, etc.), the people would leave because of it. Maybe our churches should not be getting bigger, but they should be getting smaller. Maybe the marker we are seeing of "growth" is the fact that we are really not teaching people how to be disciples of Jesus.
Maybe we need to form communities that take very seriously the call to hold each other accountable, to bear one another's burdens, to love in and out, to praise God in assembly and in life, to bear witness that the Good News of the ability to be a part of God's Kingdom in the World (NOW and later) is available as a gift, and to learn daily what it means to take up our crosses and follow Jesus.
And, yes, I do believe that our current system does not do these things well. It has hints of all of them.
So, may the Spirit of God, who also rested on Jesus, rest on us. And, my that Spirit do things through us that we would not have thought possible. When it happens, may we give glory to God who does so much more than we could even think. And, it will ONLY be through Him that anything happens.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Morals and Ethics... and Youth Ministry
I got to present a minor lesson at my Life Group last night. I talked about worldviews and their subsequent values. I asked everyone to give me the values of American society. They listed the normal ones: money, success, health, our land, power, individual freedom, and individualism. So, I asked what that means the American worldview is... Ego. I am my own maker. I am the most important. I am the top. Typical American values spawn from an egocentric view of the world. And, being an American, I can say that the culture tempts me to follow that route of selfishness.
But, there is another way...
In Philippians, Paul advocates a number of changes. He asks for a change of mindset, of commitment, of attitude, and in the first two chapters he advocates for a change in worldview. If America's (and Rome's) worldview was centered on Ego, the Christian worldview is centered on the Cross. From the view of the Cross, we can say, "To live is Christ; to die is gain." Our values are those of love, sacrifice, service, and humility.
As one of the people in the Life Group said, "They are the exact opposite of one another!"
However, I want to ask, "Which of these two worldviews (Ego or Cross) do we model our churches after?"
Do you focus on numbers and success rates of baptism? Do you serve for the sake of serving (and not to add someone to the church?) Do you sacrifice for people who cannot and could not pay you back? Would you be willing to take the fall for something you did not do? Would you be willing to allow someone else to take the credit for something you did? Do you love with an agenda? Or, do you love because that is your worldview? Do you serve because you do it by instinct?
Maybe we need to take to action what Jesus said, "If you do good to those who do good to you, what good is it? Do not even the tax collectors do that? If you love those who love you, what good is it? Don't even the sinners do that? No, I tell you. Love those who hate you, and do good to those who persecute you." If your worldview is the Cross, this is your heart.
But, there is another way...
In Philippians, Paul advocates a number of changes. He asks for a change of mindset, of commitment, of attitude, and in the first two chapters he advocates for a change in worldview. If America's (and Rome's) worldview was centered on Ego, the Christian worldview is centered on the Cross. From the view of the Cross, we can say, "To live is Christ; to die is gain." Our values are those of love, sacrifice, service, and humility.
As one of the people in the Life Group said, "They are the exact opposite of one another!"
However, I want to ask, "Which of these two worldviews (Ego or Cross) do we model our churches after?"
Do you focus on numbers and success rates of baptism? Do you serve for the sake of serving (and not to add someone to the church?) Do you sacrifice for people who cannot and could not pay you back? Would you be willing to take the fall for something you did not do? Would you be willing to allow someone else to take the credit for something you did? Do you love with an agenda? Or, do you love because that is your worldview? Do you serve because you do it by instinct?
Maybe we need to take to action what Jesus said, "If you do good to those who do good to you, what good is it? Do not even the tax collectors do that? If you love those who love you, what good is it? Don't even the sinners do that? No, I tell you. Love those who hate you, and do good to those who persecute you." If your worldview is the Cross, this is your heart.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
NCYM Take-Aways Part 3
The final day of the conference was apparently for the youth ministry endurance champions, the people who live close to Atlanta, or the hardcore youth ministers. I do not know which of these I am, but I stayed. Chap Clark was supposed to be the keynote for the morning, but he dropped out at the last minute (I do not know why...) I slept in at my childhood home in Atlanta. When I got up, I talked and ate with my parents, and I headed for the hotel.
Because Chap was not there, NCYM got Reggie Joiner from North Point to fill in. As an Atlanta native, I have been blessed to participate in many of the ministries that North Point Community Church offers to the area. I made it to Reggie's super-session, which was an incredible blessing. I am not a youth minister who models his ministry after the big ministries (like North Point, Willow Creek, or Saddleback), but Reggie talked about viewing your family ministry with children as a holistic experience. Each age group can focus on different aspects of your purpose more effectively.
Because I showed up late, I skipped the practical part of Reggie's super-session (Logan got the notes.) And, I wondered over to Walling's last missional class discussion. If you have heard the word missional before, you understand that there are many pluses and minuses to this new form of Christ followers. Walling talked about my biggest deal with the missional movement, and he explained it in a way that actually made sense. Again, this will show up more later.
The night keynote was McLaughlin, Walling, and Buddy Bell having a group discussion about the weekend. I respect them all, and I have used all three of their materials in some way or other. Because Don had the most radical talk at the conference, they grilled him a little more than each other. But, I guess that is what happens to prophets.
Overall, I came out of this conference with my sponge full of how God can and will work in the world and in ministry. All in all, this conference basically said that I need to change my mindset about ministry. The disadvantage of that kind of conference is that it has only a few practical implementations for program. But, the advantage is that the mindset can in fact change the world... (which is the option I will take every time.)
Because Chap was not there, NCYM got Reggie Joiner from North Point to fill in. As an Atlanta native, I have been blessed to participate in many of the ministries that North Point Community Church offers to the area. I made it to Reggie's super-session, which was an incredible blessing. I am not a youth minister who models his ministry after the big ministries (like North Point, Willow Creek, or Saddleback), but Reggie talked about viewing your family ministry with children as a holistic experience. Each age group can focus on different aspects of your purpose more effectively.
Because I showed up late, I skipped the practical part of Reggie's super-session (Logan got the notes.) And, I wondered over to Walling's last missional class discussion. If you have heard the word missional before, you understand that there are many pluses and minuses to this new form of Christ followers. Walling talked about my biggest deal with the missional movement, and he explained it in a way that actually made sense. Again, this will show up more later.
The night keynote was McLaughlin, Walling, and Buddy Bell having a group discussion about the weekend. I respect them all, and I have used all three of their materials in some way or other. Because Don had the most radical talk at the conference, they grilled him a little more than each other. But, I guess that is what happens to prophets.
Overall, I came out of this conference with my sponge full of how God can and will work in the world and in ministry. All in all, this conference basically said that I need to change my mindset about ministry. The disadvantage of that kind of conference is that it has only a few practical implementations for program. But, the advantage is that the mindset can in fact change the world... (which is the option I will take every time.)
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
NCYM Take-Aways Part 2
The author of Contemplative Youth Ministry, Mark Yaconelli, spoke the second day. I had read the book before the conference, and he basically put a face and a little flesh to his book in his keynote talk. Honestly, the best part of Mark's trip to NCYM was his super-session. We got to ask him questions, listen to a little more practice, and participate in a few exercises. In a world that is constantly moving and growing, God says to be still and know He is there. And, we did.
After the super-session, I finally took a break. I just sat down and watched people. My wife and I are people watchers by nature, and it was great to see the faces and sad to see the hurt on people. Honestly, you can see and feel the hurt people are going through if you just look at them. Look at their shoulders, look at their eyes, look how they are walking, look at how they are moving, etc.
The last session I attended was Walling's missional class again. Sometimes, you must laugh to keep yourself from crying. We are so far from where we should be, but God keeps using us. That last statement is as much an indictment on us as it is a statement of God's power. As Walling moved through the issues that come with a church leader struggling with this new philosophy of mission, I slowly came to the realization that my students speak this language, but they do not know what it is.
At night, my brother in Christ and friend, Don McLaughlin, spoke. He stepped on everyone's toes. Knowing Don, he was stepping on his own as well. I must admit that I agree with him. The way in which churches are trying to reach people with Christ, trying to guide those in Christ, and trying to give people hope ARE NOT WORKING. Quote me on this: If our churches are more concerned with life after death as the only benefit and hope of Christianity, we should not be surprised that people wait until they are on their death beds to turn to Christ. We have two options: 1) Stick with the current system, scare people into believing they could die at any moment, and reap a reward birthed in fear (and not love) or 2) Change our system, reevaluate what we have to offer, and passionately rip into the world with a heart of respect and love.
Jesus said that his disciples would break down the gates of Hell, and in all honesty we are scared to death of Hell now. I want to raise a generation of students who desire to be Christ (literally) everyday and in every situation. I want Satan to have to start killing us off because we are tearing his kingdom down and building a new one. I want the fire of the early church who were willing to die for Christ. I want to live faithfully and not safely. (But, I do not know how...)
After the super-session, I finally took a break. I just sat down and watched people. My wife and I are people watchers by nature, and it was great to see the faces and sad to see the hurt on people. Honestly, you can see and feel the hurt people are going through if you just look at them. Look at their shoulders, look at their eyes, look how they are walking, look at how they are moving, etc.
The last session I attended was Walling's missional class again. Sometimes, you must laugh to keep yourself from crying. We are so far from where we should be, but God keeps using us. That last statement is as much an indictment on us as it is a statement of God's power. As Walling moved through the issues that come with a church leader struggling with this new philosophy of mission, I slowly came to the realization that my students speak this language, but they do not know what it is.
At night, my brother in Christ and friend, Don McLaughlin, spoke. He stepped on everyone's toes. Knowing Don, he was stepping on his own as well. I must admit that I agree with him. The way in which churches are trying to reach people with Christ, trying to guide those in Christ, and trying to give people hope ARE NOT WORKING. Quote me on this: If our churches are more concerned with life after death as the only benefit and hope of Christianity, we should not be surprised that people wait until they are on their death beds to turn to Christ. We have two options: 1) Stick with the current system, scare people into believing they could die at any moment, and reap a reward birthed in fear (and not love) or 2) Change our system, reevaluate what we have to offer, and passionately rip into the world with a heart of respect and love.
Jesus said that his disciples would break down the gates of Hell, and in all honesty we are scared to death of Hell now. I want to raise a generation of students who desire to be Christ (literally) everyday and in every situation. I want Satan to have to start killing us off because we are tearing his kingdom down and building a new one. I want the fire of the early church who were willing to die for Christ. I want to live faithfully and not safely. (But, I do not know how...)
Monday, January 7, 2008
NCYM Take-Aways Part 1
I traveled all morning on Thursday, Jan 4th, to attend the conference. My wife had the day off, so the day started slow. I went to sleep on Wednesday with the intention of waking up in time to reach Shane Claiborne's lesson in the morning, but I left late. And, as always, this was a blessing. I value Shane's message of authentic and radical following, but I love my wife. It was good to slow down that morning and take my time to get ready. Then, I began the four hour drive to Atlanta from Nashville. I have been listening to Inspired By Media's audio Bible for the past few days. And, on this trip, I listened to John for the first 2 hours. I had to pull over twice because I was so moved by the words and life of my Savior. After I listened to John, I turned off the radio for the remaining two hours. And, I tried to remember what I had just heard.
I showed up to the Airport Hilton (which is not in the best area of Atlanta - I am an ATL native) for the last 30 minutes of Claiborne's message. His message was a recap of Irresistible Revolution. Luckily, I have read the book. I did, however, find it ironic that we youth ministers were listening to someone talk about doing thing that we could have done two blocks from our hotel. (This is as much an indictment on myself as to everyone else.) Shane's super-session helped put a little flesh on the implications for youth ministry, but I wish it was that easy...
I stopped by Don McLaughlin's class on the purity talk. In essence, he said what all youth ministers know, "what we are doing is not working..." So, he advocated a different approach that involves placing desires in their correct context. As with anything that is sex related, it makes sense, but it is hard to apply for teenagers. However, it is better than the "kiss everything goodbye" or "showing love waits" stuff.
God directed me to Chris Seidman's next class. He talked about the relationship between the Spirit, water, and baptism. In confession, I have struggled for the past few years with teaching baptism to a pluralistic generation, Chris offered the lesson as a picture (which helps.) I would put more flesh to this statement, but I am teaching about it on Sunday and don't want to spoil anything for the students.
The last class I went to was Jeff Walling's missional discussion. I have now read four books that deal with the missional discussion, so I was shocked to see this class at NCYM. I will not comment on this class as much as I desire, but my thoughts will show up later. Overall, it was a great class.
At dinner, I realized that one of the many reasons for these conferences is to let fellow youth ministers be present with one another. One of the great blessings of this conference was the ability to check up with my friends.
I showed up to the Airport Hilton (which is not in the best area of Atlanta - I am an ATL native) for the last 30 minutes of Claiborne's message. His message was a recap of Irresistible Revolution. Luckily, I have read the book. I did, however, find it ironic that we youth ministers were listening to someone talk about doing thing that we could have done two blocks from our hotel. (This is as much an indictment on myself as to everyone else.) Shane's super-session helped put a little flesh on the implications for youth ministry, but I wish it was that easy...
I stopped by Don McLaughlin's class on the purity talk. In essence, he said what all youth ministers know, "what we are doing is not working..." So, he advocated a different approach that involves placing desires in their correct context. As with anything that is sex related, it makes sense, but it is hard to apply for teenagers. However, it is better than the "kiss everything goodbye" or "showing love waits" stuff.
God directed me to Chris Seidman's next class. He talked about the relationship between the Spirit, water, and baptism. In confession, I have struggled for the past few years with teaching baptism to a pluralistic generation, Chris offered the lesson as a picture (which helps.) I would put more flesh to this statement, but I am teaching about it on Sunday and don't want to spoil anything for the students.
The last class I went to was Jeff Walling's missional discussion. I have now read four books that deal with the missional discussion, so I was shocked to see this class at NCYM. I will not comment on this class as much as I desire, but my thoughts will show up later. Overall, it was a great class.
At dinner, I realized that one of the many reasons for these conferences is to let fellow youth ministers be present with one another. One of the great blessings of this conference was the ability to check up with my friends.
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
More Than "Bodies Revealed"
While Melissa and I were in Sacramento, CA for Christmas, we went to an exhibit called Bodies Revealed for one of the days. This exhibition is a portrayal of the human body in a marvelous way. It shows the human bodies skeletal system, the circulatory system, the reproductive system, and the respiratory system. While this all may sound boring, the interesting aspect of it is the fact that every exhibit was a REAL human body. The exhibition has taken volunteers from two different areas in the world, and they have plasticized and dissected them to show the human body in its full form. All of the real bodies showed how intricate and amazing the human body is.
There was a full skeleton. One exhibit showed every vein within the human body from the toes to the head. There were babies (who all had died naturally in the mother's womb) from 6 weeks to 24 weeks after conception. There were lungs with cancer and enlarged hearts. I walked out stunned.
The human body is unique (and that word cannot capture it.) It is amazing. It is beautiful. Every aspect of the human body relies on each other part working effectively. The brain relies on the heart and blood flow. The stomach needs muscles to move and process food. The bones need one certain element in order to be hard otherwise they would be jelly. I can honestly say that I was reminded in a powerful way that God is amazing. This exhibit gave me a new understanding of God "knitting us in our mother's womb." I can honestly say that I found more than just a human body revealed in this place. God was evident.
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