When Jacob awoke from his sleep, he thought, “Surely the Lord is in this place, and I was not aware of it.” He was afraid and said, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven.” (Genesis 28:16, 17 NIV)
Back in the days of the Jewish temple, God was thought to be found only there... behind the curtain in the Holy of Holies. With Jesus' crucifixion, the curtain was torn and we now know that God is to be found everywhere. We know he is with us wherever we go and with everyone else wherever they go. He can be found on the mountain top and in the beauty of nature, be he can also be found in a crack house in the middle of a New York slum.
Yes, we know God is everywhere, but there are spaces in our lives where we recognize his presence more strongly than any other place. The first time I stepped on the ground of Camp Loy White after I made my Via de Cristo weekend, I felt an almost overwhelming need to take off my shoes, for I was on holy ground. I felt God everywhere. There are a couple places in my home where I regularly talk to God... whenever I approach these places, I feel God's presence. And then there is Holy Cross... where I had my first communion; where Richard and I refound and grew our faith together; where our boys were baptised and our eldest just married; where Cecelia looks for her Jesus and Emma was baptized. Where God does amazing things through amazing people throughout the year.
God is everywhere. But his presence is more acutely felt in those places where we have experienced him face to face. Maybe we should cultivate more Holy Ground in our lives. If we experience God in more places, we will feel his presence more consistantly in our everyday environments. Cultivate some new Holy Ground today.
Holy God,
I know you are with me everywhere, but I feel you more deeply in those special place where we have met. Help me to make more of those special places. Amen.
Joys: Lunch with the newlyweds; such a pretty day yesterday after such a bleak, rainy, cold Tuesday, Wade's portrayal of Herod last night
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Touch
When Jesus came into Peter’s house, he saw Peter’s mother-in-law lying in bed with a fever. He touched her hand and the fever left her, and she got up and began to wait on him. (Matthew 8:14, 15 NIV)
Wasn't there once a time you could touch people without offending them in one way or another? It seems there was, but maybe I just wish it were at least once so. These days if you touch a person's shoulder when you talk to them, you are "invading their space." If you are excited for a woman who is obviously very pregnant and dare to put your hand however briefly and lightly on her belly, you are taking unwelcome liberty. Shaking hands is spreading germs. And a hug... well there is far too much sexual suggestion in a hug!
To some extent, I understand this reluctance to touch or be touched, but like so many things in this world today, we have taken it too far. How sad is it when a pastor is afraid to hug a parishoner because he/she might put him/herself at risk to be accused? How sad is it when a person is offended because we show our concern, care or love by touching their hand or shoulder when we speak to them?
I believe we are hungry for touch. Jesus healed by touching. And we can heal one another by touching. I have seen tears of emotional healing flow when at church we have laid hands on someone as we prayed for them... it wasn't the prayers as much a the touch that affected them. That touch goes much deeper than the skin. When we are touched like that it goes straight to our heart.
I remember going through a difficult time as a young woman. A co-worker... someone I really didn't know well... sensed I wasn't myself and asked if I was ok. I said, "not really." Without even knowing the problem, this person just wrapped their arms around me and hugged me.... and that's all I needed to release the pent up emotion. It was cleansing and I needed it.
I think that maybe our problem with touch today is that we are afraid of showing our emotions like that. We are afraid of looking weak or fragile. But when we refuse to be touched we miss out on a very special kind of healing. Ok, maybe we don't want strangers in our face all day... but can we not allow the touch of a caring person every now and then even if we don't know them well? I think the world would be a better place for it. We could heal one another one gentle touch at a time.
Lord Jesus,
If you were physically in our midst today would we let you touch us, or would we forgo your healing because of our discomfort? Help us to touch and be touched. Amen.
Joys: sunshine this morning; plans for another wedding heating up; a day off
Wasn't there once a time you could touch people without offending them in one way or another? It seems there was, but maybe I just wish it were at least once so. These days if you touch a person's shoulder when you talk to them, you are "invading their space." If you are excited for a woman who is obviously very pregnant and dare to put your hand however briefly and lightly on her belly, you are taking unwelcome liberty. Shaking hands is spreading germs. And a hug... well there is far too much sexual suggestion in a hug!
To some extent, I understand this reluctance to touch or be touched, but like so many things in this world today, we have taken it too far. How sad is it when a pastor is afraid to hug a parishoner because he/she might put him/herself at risk to be accused? How sad is it when a person is offended because we show our concern, care or love by touching their hand or shoulder when we speak to them?
I believe we are hungry for touch. Jesus healed by touching. And we can heal one another by touching. I have seen tears of emotional healing flow when at church we have laid hands on someone as we prayed for them... it wasn't the prayers as much a the touch that affected them. That touch goes much deeper than the skin. When we are touched like that it goes straight to our heart.
I remember going through a difficult time as a young woman. A co-worker... someone I really didn't know well... sensed I wasn't myself and asked if I was ok. I said, "not really." Without even knowing the problem, this person just wrapped their arms around me and hugged me.... and that's all I needed to release the pent up emotion. It was cleansing and I needed it.
I think that maybe our problem with touch today is that we are afraid of showing our emotions like that. We are afraid of looking weak or fragile. But when we refuse to be touched we miss out on a very special kind of healing. Ok, maybe we don't want strangers in our face all day... but can we not allow the touch of a caring person every now and then even if we don't know them well? I think the world would be a better place for it. We could heal one another one gentle touch at a time.
Lord Jesus,
If you were physically in our midst today would we let you touch us, or would we forgo your healing because of our discomfort? Help us to touch and be touched. Amen.
Joys: sunshine this morning; plans for another wedding heating up; a day off
Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Promises, Promises
Your promises have been thoroughly tested, and your servant loves them. (Psalm 119:140 NIV)
As children we all knew the difference between when our parents said, "no" or "maybe" or "ok" or "I promise." We LOVED hearing "I promise." Most parents worked hard at folowing through with those promises. But all of us, no matter how hard our parents may have tried have suffered the disappointent of a broken promise.
There are two sides to every promise. The one who makes the promise and the one who trusts the promise. For a promise to work, someone has to trust it. That's what makes a broken promise so much more devastating than a mere, "maybe."
There are many promises made to us throughout our lives. The little promises we made as we plan something in the future; there are the promises made to "never do it again" when someone seeks forgiveness then there are the bigger ones made at the marriage altar, or those who make promises when they are sworn into political offices. If we don't trust the promise maker, the promise is meaningless.
Some promises are never made out loud, but simply understood. At the birth of our children, we may never vocally say that we will protect and care for them, but that promise is understood, and is often more devestating when broken than any vocal promise ever made.
Mostly, we know the importance of keeping our promise, but it is also important to trust promises. There is something about that kind of trust that prepares our souls and spirits for the eternal life to come. It can be so difficult... especially if we've been badly hurt by broken promises. But we must keep trying. I believe that most people who make promises truly intend to keep them. I believe that some of us make promises too rashly only to find we are unable to keep them. I believe that our mistrust of some promises often is a big contributor to that promise being broken.
One thing is for sure. We can trust God's promises with every fiber of our being. Sometimes we may think God has forgotten a promise to us, but we will always find that it is kept in a way we maybe wouldn't have expected.
Be careful about making any promises today. Think it through. Also today, fully trust somebody who makes a promise. Watch how your confidence in them helps them keep the promise. And today and every day trust God and his promises fully... with all your heart and all your soul and with every fiber of your being.
Father,
Help us to be better at making and keeping promises. Help us to be better at trusting those who make promises to us. And let us know deep down to our toes that you always keep your promises and will never disappoint us. Amen.
Joys: a quiet evening at home; February is almost over and Spring just around the corner; morning phone calls from Richard
As children we all knew the difference between when our parents said, "no" or "maybe" or "ok" or "I promise." We LOVED hearing "I promise." Most parents worked hard at folowing through with those promises. But all of us, no matter how hard our parents may have tried have suffered the disappointent of a broken promise.
There are two sides to every promise. The one who makes the promise and the one who trusts the promise. For a promise to work, someone has to trust it. That's what makes a broken promise so much more devastating than a mere, "maybe."
There are many promises made to us throughout our lives. The little promises we made as we plan something in the future; there are the promises made to "never do it again" when someone seeks forgiveness then there are the bigger ones made at the marriage altar, or those who make promises when they are sworn into political offices. If we don't trust the promise maker, the promise is meaningless.
Some promises are never made out loud, but simply understood. At the birth of our children, we may never vocally say that we will protect and care for them, but that promise is understood, and is often more devestating when broken than any vocal promise ever made.
Mostly, we know the importance of keeping our promise, but it is also important to trust promises. There is something about that kind of trust that prepares our souls and spirits for the eternal life to come. It can be so difficult... especially if we've been badly hurt by broken promises. But we must keep trying. I believe that most people who make promises truly intend to keep them. I believe that some of us make promises too rashly only to find we are unable to keep them. I believe that our mistrust of some promises often is a big contributor to that promise being broken.
One thing is for sure. We can trust God's promises with every fiber of our being. Sometimes we may think God has forgotten a promise to us, but we will always find that it is kept in a way we maybe wouldn't have expected.
Be careful about making any promises today. Think it through. Also today, fully trust somebody who makes a promise. Watch how your confidence in them helps them keep the promise. And today and every day trust God and his promises fully... with all your heart and all your soul and with every fiber of your being.
Father,
Help us to be better at making and keeping promises. Help us to be better at trusting those who make promises to us. And let us know deep down to our toes that you always keep your promises and will never disappoint us. Amen.
Joys: a quiet evening at home; February is almost over and Spring just around the corner; morning phone calls from Richard
Monday, February 25, 2013
Don't Hide Your Talents
I was afraid, and went and hid your talent in the ground. (Matthew 25:25 NKJV)
I have so many wonderful memories from Daniel and Tracy's wedding! What a joy it was, but it was also very emotional to finally let go of that last little bit that was my little boy and let him go fully into manhood. I'm very proud of who he is.
That being said, one of my favorite parts of the day was at the reception when the toasts were being given. When the d.j. asked if anyone else wanted the microphone, Daniel's 4-year-old daughter, Cecelia, walked straight up to the table, grabbed the mike, took center stage and proceded to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." She sang loudly and clearly and without the slightest hesitation in her voice. It made this grandma's already gooshy heart melt.
Cecelia is the model of confidence. She knows what she can do, and if she can't do it, she knows that with a little practice and a little help from someone who knows how, she will be able to do it soon. I can't help but watch her as she learns and grows and the way she tackles new things and takes joy in the things that she can already do... and know that that is how God wants us to live our lives.
Too often we live in fear of messing up or looking dumb. When we are presented with a new challenge, we would often rather pretend we already know what we are doing rather than ask someone with experience to help. And the things we already know how to do... if we aren't among the best at doing it, we would rather hide our talent away than use it to the best of our own unique abilities.
Cecelia is a good singer, but I've heard pleanty of 4-year-olds that could do it with more polish and dazzle. But Cecelia gave us the gift of her uniqueness and I wouldn't have wanted a song from any other 4-year-old at that moment. When we give of ourselves, we are giving more than just a talent or gift. We are giving love. We are giving a moment to bring joy to others. It doesn't matter if we are not award winnners or in the top 10 percent of what we do. What matters is the giving and being confident that God has given us just what we need to do just what we should be doing.
Cecelia gets that at this tender age... I hope she never loses it and I hope I can be more like her in that way.
Father,
Thank you for an amazing weekend with friends and family and new family. What a great gift you have given us in marriage. Help us to be more confident in using our gifts and talents to bring joy to others. Amen.
Joys: A new daughter!; Cecelia's gift; Great time with Kevin, Chelsea and Emma yesterday
I have so many wonderful memories from Daniel and Tracy's wedding! What a joy it was, but it was also very emotional to finally let go of that last little bit that was my little boy and let him go fully into manhood. I'm very proud of who he is.
That being said, one of my favorite parts of the day was at the reception when the toasts were being given. When the d.j. asked if anyone else wanted the microphone, Daniel's 4-year-old daughter, Cecelia, walked straight up to the table, grabbed the mike, took center stage and proceded to sing "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star." She sang loudly and clearly and without the slightest hesitation in her voice. It made this grandma's already gooshy heart melt.
Cecelia is the model of confidence. She knows what she can do, and if she can't do it, she knows that with a little practice and a little help from someone who knows how, she will be able to do it soon. I can't help but watch her as she learns and grows and the way she tackles new things and takes joy in the things that she can already do... and know that that is how God wants us to live our lives.
Too often we live in fear of messing up or looking dumb. When we are presented with a new challenge, we would often rather pretend we already know what we are doing rather than ask someone with experience to help. And the things we already know how to do... if we aren't among the best at doing it, we would rather hide our talent away than use it to the best of our own unique abilities.
Cecelia is a good singer, but I've heard pleanty of 4-year-olds that could do it with more polish and dazzle. But Cecelia gave us the gift of her uniqueness and I wouldn't have wanted a song from any other 4-year-old at that moment. When we give of ourselves, we are giving more than just a talent or gift. We are giving love. We are giving a moment to bring joy to others. It doesn't matter if we are not award winnners or in the top 10 percent of what we do. What matters is the giving and being confident that God has given us just what we need to do just what we should be doing.
Cecelia gets that at this tender age... I hope she never loses it and I hope I can be more like her in that way.
Father,
Thank you for an amazing weekend with friends and family and new family. What a great gift you have given us in marriage. Help us to be more confident in using our gifts and talents to bring joy to others. Amen.
Joys: A new daughter!; Cecelia's gift; Great time with Kevin, Chelsea and Emma yesterday
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
The Sting of Rejection
He then began to teach them that the Son of Man must suffer many things and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests and the teachers of the law, and that he must be killed and after three days rise again. (Mark 8:31 NIV)
We all have felt the sting of rejection on occasion. Sometimes it is intentional and loud, when someone tells you they don't like you in whatever words they use. Sometimes it is so subtle that even the rejector doesn't realize what they are doing. It's the group of friends at the gathering that avoid the table where a lone person sits waiting for company. It's the glazed-over eyes in response to a person trying to engage someone in conversation. It's unanswered or unreturned phone calls, emails or even FaceBook friend requests.
Rejection hurts when we are on the receiving end, and still, we all reject others from time to time even knowing the hurt it causes. Rejecting another makes us feel a little superior for a while... at least until we feel rejected again.
Make an effort today to catch yourself in an act of subconsciously rejecting another and change your path. Embrace them.... if not physically, certainly emotionally. You will change so much. You will give that person a better self-image and make them happier for the moment. And you will change a little something within yourself for the better. And who knows... you might even make a new friend.
Lord Jesus,
No one knows the sting of rejection better than you do; and each time we reject another person we are, in essence rejecting you. Help us to be more mindful of our intentional and unintentional interactions with those around us. Help us to be more embracing. Help us to walk toward relationships rather than away from them. Amen.
Joys: Wedding preparations; some sunshine today; good pimeto cheese... a true southern delicacy
We all have felt the sting of rejection on occasion. Sometimes it is intentional and loud, when someone tells you they don't like you in whatever words they use. Sometimes it is so subtle that even the rejector doesn't realize what they are doing. It's the group of friends at the gathering that avoid the table where a lone person sits waiting for company. It's the glazed-over eyes in response to a person trying to engage someone in conversation. It's unanswered or unreturned phone calls, emails or even FaceBook friend requests.
Rejection hurts when we are on the receiving end, and still, we all reject others from time to time even knowing the hurt it causes. Rejecting another makes us feel a little superior for a while... at least until we feel rejected again.
Make an effort today to catch yourself in an act of subconsciously rejecting another and change your path. Embrace them.... if not physically, certainly emotionally. You will change so much. You will give that person a better self-image and make them happier for the moment. And you will change a little something within yourself for the better. And who knows... you might even make a new friend.
Lord Jesus,
No one knows the sting of rejection better than you do; and each time we reject another person we are, in essence rejecting you. Help us to be more mindful of our intentional and unintentional interactions with those around us. Help us to be more embracing. Help us to walk toward relationships rather than away from them. Amen.
Joys: Wedding preparations; some sunshine today; good pimeto cheese... a true southern delicacy
Tuesday, February 19, 2013
Unwilling?
“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how often I have longed to gather your children together, as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you were not willing. (Matthew 23:37 NIV)
Jesus spoke these words to a generation who had perverted their faith. They made religious law from things that were never intended to be law. The teachers and lawmakers kind of made it up as they went along and condemned those who couldn't or wouldn't conform.
I hear Jesus calling to us with the same words. We have strayed so far from the truth. It is hard to recognize the Jesus some have made. There are those who have taken the Jesus who said "Lay down your swords!" "Turn the other cheek!" "We will all worship on the same mountain." "And forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do" and turned him into a war-loving, gun-loving, god who would let children starve because their parents are lazy or drug addicted and a god who hates anyone that is not like your typical religious right American.
These are hard words. But it is a strong form of "Christianity" I see all around me here in the "Bible Belt" of the south. And I have to wonder... when I pick up the Bible and read, am I missing something about Jesus? I thought he is supposed to be the example we are to follow. Didn't God come to earth in large part to show us how to love and serve one another and be at peace with one another and give to those in need even if it leaves us without? It seems that some of the preachers are kind of making it up as they go along, and shout "heretic!" at anyone who doesn't buy into it, just like the teachers and lawmakers of Jesus' day.
I thank God that we are taught better at Holy Cross. I don't think I could attend a church that taught otherwise. But I pray for the Christian faith in our community, country and world... that we would strive to get it right and follow the Jesus of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. ...to read and learn about how God in Flesh lived and acted and taught so that we may be more like Him and teach the rest of the world to be more like Him and to be willing to be gathered under his wings.
Lord Jesus,
Many of us are still not willing to be gathered under your wings even though we say we are with our lips. Open our eyes to our misunderstandings of who you are and what you tried to teach on earth. Amen.
Joys: Four more days until the wedding!; Richard getting to be home more than away for a couple of weeks; a quiet morning
Jesus spoke these words to a generation who had perverted their faith. They made religious law from things that were never intended to be law. The teachers and lawmakers kind of made it up as they went along and condemned those who couldn't or wouldn't conform.
I hear Jesus calling to us with the same words. We have strayed so far from the truth. It is hard to recognize the Jesus some have made. There are those who have taken the Jesus who said "Lay down your swords!" "Turn the other cheek!" "We will all worship on the same mountain." "And forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do" and turned him into a war-loving, gun-loving, god who would let children starve because their parents are lazy or drug addicted and a god who hates anyone that is not like your typical religious right American.
These are hard words. But it is a strong form of "Christianity" I see all around me here in the "Bible Belt" of the south. And I have to wonder... when I pick up the Bible and read, am I missing something about Jesus? I thought he is supposed to be the example we are to follow. Didn't God come to earth in large part to show us how to love and serve one another and be at peace with one another and give to those in need even if it leaves us without? It seems that some of the preachers are kind of making it up as they go along, and shout "heretic!" at anyone who doesn't buy into it, just like the teachers and lawmakers of Jesus' day.
I thank God that we are taught better at Holy Cross. I don't think I could attend a church that taught otherwise. But I pray for the Christian faith in our community, country and world... that we would strive to get it right and follow the Jesus of the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. ...to read and learn about how God in Flesh lived and acted and taught so that we may be more like Him and teach the rest of the world to be more like Him and to be willing to be gathered under his wings.
Lord Jesus,
Many of us are still not willing to be gathered under your wings even though we say we are with our lips. Open our eyes to our misunderstandings of who you are and what you tried to teach on earth. Amen.
Joys: Four more days until the wedding!; Richard getting to be home more than away for a couple of weeks; a quiet morning
Monday, February 18, 2013
The Little Things
always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Ephesians 5:20 NIV)
On Friday our Lenten Daily Challenge was to list 10 of the less usual things we are grateful for. Whenever we make a gratitude list we always first remember our family, friends, home, etc. But it's fun to dig a little deeper. And when we do, we find that there is so much in our world and in our lives to be grateful for.
Friday night I got together with several other people to prepare a newsetter for mailing. There were about 1400 of them. One person, who had the job of applying the stamp, remarked that she was thankful for sticky stamps that don't have to be licked! Anyone who has ever done it the old fashioned way can relate to that!
What are some of the simple things in life that you are grateful for? Some of mine:
On Friday our Lenten Daily Challenge was to list 10 of the less usual things we are grateful for. Whenever we make a gratitude list we always first remember our family, friends, home, etc. But it's fun to dig a little deeper. And when we do, we find that there is so much in our world and in our lives to be grateful for.
Friday night I got together with several other people to prepare a newsetter for mailing. There were about 1400 of them. One person, who had the job of applying the stamp, remarked that she was thankful for sticky stamps that don't have to be licked! Anyone who has ever done it the old fashioned way can relate to that!
What are some of the simple things in life that you are grateful for? Some of mine:
- a camera on my phone... especially when the grandkids are around
- warm fuzzy socks with non-skid dots on the feet to wear arounnd the house on a cold day
- a baby's laughter
- crayons and coloring books... try it if you haven't in a while... relaxing and soothing to the soul.
- indoor plumbing... I really respect my great grandparents and older generations for managing without it!
- Police officers... can you imagine what life would be like without them?
- books... actual or digital
- DVD players and being able to watch favorite movies as often as I like
- home made soup
- sunshine after a cloudy day
Father,
Help me to remember to be grateful even for the little things in life. So often I don't notice them until they ar not there. Thank you for all my blessings, great and small. Amen.
Joys: See above!
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Refiner's Fire
And I will put this third into the fire, refine them as one refines silver, and test them as gold is tested.They will call on my name, and I will answer them.I will say, “They are my people”; and they will say, “The Lord is our God.”
Nobody likes forest fires. There are even people whose job it is to prevent them. They are the folks who gave us Smokey the Bear and "Only YOU can prevent forest fires." In the western part of the United States, these fires often become major disasters burning everything in their paths, forcing evacuation of homes that are sometimes lost to the fires. Oddly enough, these fires have become worse and worse over the decades because of our success in suppressing them. Natural wildfires are necessary to keep our woodlands healthy. These fires are needed to burn out the underbrush. When they don't happen regularly, the underbrush continues to accumulate and spindly trees rise up and fall and create more underbrush and then when a fire does happen, it creates a monstrous inferno.
Lent is a time for our own cleansing fire. We've collected a lot of useless underbrush since last Easter. We've done damage to relationships. We've strayed away from regular prayer and Bible study and filled that time with television, internet and trashy books. We've taken more than our share while others go without the basic necessities. We've turned our backs on our brothers and sisters throughout the world who live in fear or pain or want.
It's time for a consuming fire. If it doesn't happen regularly, we risk a monstrous inferno rising up within us with no warning. Give in to the smaller, controlled fire of Lent. Jesus is there to walk you through it, reminding you that no matter what kind of ugly underbrush hides within, you are forgiven. You are loved. You are precious and unique.
Lord Jesus,
Bring on your refining fire. Burn out what is harmful or wasteful within me so that I may shine and reflect your image when I emerge. Amen.
Joys: A well-attended and meaningful Ash Wednesday service; a wedding just around the corner; reserving a family beach vacation for later this year
Wednesday, February 13, 2013
Ash Wednesday
My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. (Psalm 51:17 NIV)
What I love about television shows is how problems are always quickly resolved. After all, they only have 30-60 minutes. Medical shows are especially entertaining in this aspect... the doctor orders tests... STAT... and in 5 minutes they have test results. So why is it when I have tests done, even if they "put a rush on it," I have to call back in 10 days? And then the results are rarely as specific as they are on T.V.
Then there are the crime shows. Gotta love them! Throughout the show the suspect denies, denies, denies until 5 minutes of show to go and they are presented with the evidence. The detective says to the killer, "You hated your husband and this passerby saw you walk into his office building with a weapon!" And the suspect suddenly gushes, "Yes! Yes! I did it!" Of course we all know of real cases where the evidence was overwhelming and they denied it throughout the trial. Real life just isn't that neat.
On Ash Wednesday we are challenged with overwhelming evidence of our own guilt. Most of the year we deny, deny, deny. We make excuses for our sin. "Everybody does it." "It's because of my crappy childhood." "That surely can't apply today!" But on Ash Wednesday, God confronts us with our sin... "You are dust and to dust you shall return." And we confess, "Yes! Yes! I did it!"
So get your ashes in church today! Confess and know the joy of forgiveness.
Father,
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. (Psalm 51:7, 10-12, 17 NIV). Amen.
What I love about television shows is how problems are always quickly resolved. After all, they only have 30-60 minutes. Medical shows are especially entertaining in this aspect... the doctor orders tests... STAT... and in 5 minutes they have test results. So why is it when I have tests done, even if they "put a rush on it," I have to call back in 10 days? And then the results are rarely as specific as they are on T.V.
Then there are the crime shows. Gotta love them! Throughout the show the suspect denies, denies, denies until 5 minutes of show to go and they are presented with the evidence. The detective says to the killer, "You hated your husband and this passerby saw you walk into his office building with a weapon!" And the suspect suddenly gushes, "Yes! Yes! I did it!" Of course we all know of real cases where the evidence was overwhelming and they denied it throughout the trial. Real life just isn't that neat.
On Ash Wednesday we are challenged with overwhelming evidence of our own guilt. Most of the year we deny, deny, deny. We make excuses for our sin. "Everybody does it." "It's because of my crappy childhood." "That surely can't apply today!" But on Ash Wednesday, God confronts us with our sin... "You are dust and to dust you shall return." And we confess, "Yes! Yes! I did it!"
For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me. Against you, you only, have I sinned and done what is evil in your sight; so you are right in your verdict and justified when you judge. Surely I was sinful at birth, sinful from the time my mother conceived me. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. (Psalm 51:3-5, 17 NIV)Today is a day of no excuses. We are who we are and we are a people in need of a gracious and forgiving God.
So get your ashes in church today! Confess and know the joy of forgiveness.
Father,
Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow. Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me. Do not cast me from your presence or take your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit, to sustain me. My sacrifice, O God, is a broken spirit; a broken and contrite heart you, God, will not despise. (Psalm 51:7, 10-12, 17 NIV). Amen.
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Shrove Tuesday
Therefore do not let anyone judge you by what you eat or drink, or with regard to a religious festival, a New Moon celebration or a Sabbath day. These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ. (Colossians 2:16, 17 NIV)
For those of us who observe Lent, Shrove Tuesday is an interesting sort of day. It is like the day before the start of a strict diet. We might overindulge in whatever it is we are going to give up for Lent. And I guesss Lent is very much like a diet... it is a fasting.
But I like to look at Shrove Tuesday just a little differently. I feel like it is a celebration of our freedom in Christ. It is a culmination of all the days since last Easter of understanding that we are not under the law just before we go into a period of remembering the Law.
Unlike someone who is indulging before a diet, we do not break every law we can think of on Shrove Tuesday. (Well ok, maybe in New Orleans they do!) But we feel a greater sense of freedom as we think about what we will give up or take on for our Lenten Fast.
Feel free today. Take that last bite of chocolate... spend an hour on Facebook... watch T.V. or play your vido games all night. Know that God loves you anyway. And also know that even if you fail in your Lenten fast, you win... because God loves you anyway. We are free in Christ.
Lord Jesus,
You have set us free and we are free indeed. Help us to be mindful of our freedom and to use it as a tool to serve others. Amen.
Joys: feedom; an evening with Daniel and Tracy; Lent
***Last year I set up a Daily Lenten Challenge. If you signed up for the emails from the blog page last year, I am pretty sure you will get them automatically this year. If you didn't sign up, you can do so at http://lentendailychallenge.blogspot.com/
I will also try to post them daily on the Holy Cross FaceBook page.
For those of us who observe Lent, Shrove Tuesday is an interesting sort of day. It is like the day before the start of a strict diet. We might overindulge in whatever it is we are going to give up for Lent. And I guesss Lent is very much like a diet... it is a fasting.
But I like to look at Shrove Tuesday just a little differently. I feel like it is a celebration of our freedom in Christ. It is a culmination of all the days since last Easter of understanding that we are not under the law just before we go into a period of remembering the Law.
Unlike someone who is indulging before a diet, we do not break every law we can think of on Shrove Tuesday. (Well ok, maybe in New Orleans they do!) But we feel a greater sense of freedom as we think about what we will give up or take on for our Lenten Fast.
Feel free today. Take that last bite of chocolate... spend an hour on Facebook... watch T.V. or play your vido games all night. Know that God loves you anyway. And also know that even if you fail in your Lenten fast, you win... because God loves you anyway. We are free in Christ.
Lord Jesus,
You have set us free and we are free indeed. Help us to be mindful of our freedom and to use it as a tool to serve others. Amen.
Joys: feedom; an evening with Daniel and Tracy; Lent
***Last year I set up a Daily Lenten Challenge. If you signed up for the emails from the blog page last year, I am pretty sure you will get them automatically this year. If you didn't sign up, you can do so at http://lentendailychallenge.blogspot.com/
I will also try to post them daily on the Holy Cross FaceBook page.
Monday, February 11, 2013
More Like Jesus
Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. (Matthew 11:29 NIV)
This Lent I want to spend some time remembering the character of Jesus and striving to emulate those characteristics the best I can.
Jesus befriended social outcasts. He didn't just throw money at them or give to local charities to take care of them. He befriended them. Holy Cross will be involved in a food ministry partially during Lent. This won't be like Project Matthew where we have a chance to socialize, but I will make an extra effort to personalize my service. Throughout Lent, I will make a more concerted effort to be a friend to those who are marginalized for whatever reason. I will pay more attention to who they are. They might just be people I see on a regular basis.
Jesus spoke strongly against judging others and strongly for forgiving others. I will pay more attention to what comes out of my mouth this Lent. I will try harder to refrain from gossip and I will try not to judge even those that I have previously judged as judgmental. Instead, I will try to understand them. I will forgive. Even if I don't get an apology.
Jesus had little sympathy for complaints about taxes. As I file my return this year, I won't complain. I will rejoice and give thanks that Richard and I had an income this year. I will pray for our government and all those in positions of power.
Jesus' strongest criticisms were against the wealthy and the religious establishments. I know that compared to the whole world, I am in the top 10% wealth-wise. This Lent, I will strive to use my wealth in ways that would please Jesus. I don't think I am ready to sell all I own and give it to the poor, but I can dig a little deeper and give a little more. I will not confuse my faith with my religion. I will put people before church rules should they ever conflict.
Jesus' life was sacrificed in a large part so that people would remember his teachings and examples. This Lent, my study will focus on the Gospels and Jesus' life. I will strive to learn something new about Jesus this Lent and become just a little bit more like him.
Lord Jesus,
Help me to know you better. Give me a more humble heart, a heart open to your teaching and guidance... even if that teaching and guidance is contrary to what I now believe to be true. Amen.
Joys: A fun weekend with family; more kids than ever in my Sunday school class! What a joy!; Lent starting this week.
This Lent I want to spend some time remembering the character of Jesus and striving to emulate those characteristics the best I can.
Jesus befriended social outcasts. He didn't just throw money at them or give to local charities to take care of them. He befriended them. Holy Cross will be involved in a food ministry partially during Lent. This won't be like Project Matthew where we have a chance to socialize, but I will make an extra effort to personalize my service. Throughout Lent, I will make a more concerted effort to be a friend to those who are marginalized for whatever reason. I will pay more attention to who they are. They might just be people I see on a regular basis.
Jesus spoke strongly against judging others and strongly for forgiving others. I will pay more attention to what comes out of my mouth this Lent. I will try harder to refrain from gossip and I will try not to judge even those that I have previously judged as judgmental. Instead, I will try to understand them. I will forgive. Even if I don't get an apology.
Jesus had little sympathy for complaints about taxes. As I file my return this year, I won't complain. I will rejoice and give thanks that Richard and I had an income this year. I will pray for our government and all those in positions of power.
Jesus' strongest criticisms were against the wealthy and the religious establishments. I know that compared to the whole world, I am in the top 10% wealth-wise. This Lent, I will strive to use my wealth in ways that would please Jesus. I don't think I am ready to sell all I own and give it to the poor, but I can dig a little deeper and give a little more. I will not confuse my faith with my religion. I will put people before church rules should they ever conflict.
Jesus' life was sacrificed in a large part so that people would remember his teachings and examples. This Lent, my study will focus on the Gospels and Jesus' life. I will strive to learn something new about Jesus this Lent and become just a little bit more like him.
Lord Jesus,
Help me to know you better. Give me a more humble heart, a heart open to your teaching and guidance... even if that teaching and guidance is contrary to what I now believe to be true. Amen.
Joys: A fun weekend with family; more kids than ever in my Sunday school class! What a joy!; Lent starting this week.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Home
I will say of the Lord , “He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in whom I trust.” (Psalm 91:2 NIV)
I love words! A word used well can paint a picture that evokes every bit as much emotion as can a paintbrush in the hands of the old masters. Two words may be synonyms, but one of those words may touch a chord in our hearts while the other one doesn't. For instance, "house" and "home."
When I hear the word "house" I think of a mortgage and the endless list of repairs and upkeep required. But the word "home" immediately calms and brings joy to my heart. It evokes images of my husband, children and grandchildren; meals shared; holidays celebrated; important discussions and happy news imparted. It is somewhere I am accepted and even loved for who I am... warts and all and somewhere that I am allowed to see the more vulnerable and imperfect side of those I love.
Certainly all our homes have a more difficult side with some not so pleasant memories as well. We are human after all. And sadly, there are some for whom the word "home" paints a very ugly picture and brings on a feeling of anxiety. But for the most part, "home" paints a picture of love, acceptance and grace.
The authors of the Book of Psalms often speak of God as our home. Not only being at home WITH God, but of our actual home BEING God. He is a home that casts out the imperfections of an earthly home. Resting in God means finding love, peace, joy and grace... all of the time. God IS home.
Father,
Help me to live in you... to let you truly be my home. Amen.
Joys: a sleepover with Cecelia.. I missed her while she was sick; a couple of sunshiney, not too cold days; home
I love words! A word used well can paint a picture that evokes every bit as much emotion as can a paintbrush in the hands of the old masters. Two words may be synonyms, but one of those words may touch a chord in our hearts while the other one doesn't. For instance, "house" and "home."
When I hear the word "house" I think of a mortgage and the endless list of repairs and upkeep required. But the word "home" immediately calms and brings joy to my heart. It evokes images of my husband, children and grandchildren; meals shared; holidays celebrated; important discussions and happy news imparted. It is somewhere I am accepted and even loved for who I am... warts and all and somewhere that I am allowed to see the more vulnerable and imperfect side of those I love.
Certainly all our homes have a more difficult side with some not so pleasant memories as well. We are human after all. And sadly, there are some for whom the word "home" paints a very ugly picture and brings on a feeling of anxiety. But for the most part, "home" paints a picture of love, acceptance and grace.
The authors of the Book of Psalms often speak of God as our home. Not only being at home WITH God, but of our actual home BEING God. He is a home that casts out the imperfections of an earthly home. Resting in God means finding love, peace, joy and grace... all of the time. God IS home.
Father,
Help me to live in you... to let you truly be my home. Amen.
Joys: a sleepover with Cecelia.. I missed her while she was sick; a couple of sunshiney, not too cold days; home
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
Giving Up the Burden
Forgive us our sins, for we also forgive everyone who sins against us.’ ” (Luke 11:4 NIV)
I ran across an interesting quote this morning:
Speaking from experience I can tell you that forgiveness is freeing. It feels very much like a burden removed from your shoulders. And an apology is totally unnecessary to the process. In the Lord's Prayer we recite, "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." I don't know about you, but I don't even KNOW about all the ways I've trespassed against God let alone asked forgiveness for every one of them. I hope that in my willingness to forgive those who have not asked for it, my Father in heaven will do the same for me.
But it is more than just about wanting God to forgive me.... I know he does every day... it is about living free from the bitterness and narrowness of life that unforgiveness brings. It is about following God's map to abundant life. Forgiveness is one of the major highways that leads there.
Father,
I pray for the ability to always forgive others as you forgive me... apology or not. Keep me free from the burden of a grudge. Amen.
Joys: My sick little Cecelia feeling much better; Kevin's joy in hearing Emma say, "da-da-da-da-da"; getting to spend a few minutes with Daniel unexpectedly.
I ran across an interesting quote this morning:
"Life becomes easier when you learn to accept an apology that you never got."For many, that quote will not make sense. All of us probably know at least one person burden with a grudge against another who will not forgive because an apology has never been offered. How sad. Notice that I said they were "burdened with a grudge." Unforgiveness is the biggest burden we can carry and yet many of us insist on holding on to it with every ounce of strength we have. For some reason, we think that our own burden is making someone else's life uncomfortable. hmmmm.... no. It only makes our own lives harder.
Speaking from experience I can tell you that forgiveness is freeing. It feels very much like a burden removed from your shoulders. And an apology is totally unnecessary to the process. In the Lord's Prayer we recite, "Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us." I don't know about you, but I don't even KNOW about all the ways I've trespassed against God let alone asked forgiveness for every one of them. I hope that in my willingness to forgive those who have not asked for it, my Father in heaven will do the same for me.
But it is more than just about wanting God to forgive me.... I know he does every day... it is about living free from the bitterness and narrowness of life that unforgiveness brings. It is about following God's map to abundant life. Forgiveness is one of the major highways that leads there.
Father,
I pray for the ability to always forgive others as you forgive me... apology or not. Keep me free from the burden of a grudge. Amen.
Joys: My sick little Cecelia feeling much better; Kevin's joy in hearing Emma say, "da-da-da-da-da"; getting to spend a few minutes with Daniel unexpectedly.
Monday, February 4, 2013
Enjoying the Mystery
We do, however, speak a message of wisdom among the mature, but not the wisdom of this age or of the rulers of this age, who are coming to nothing. No, we declare God’s wisdom, a mystery that has been hidden and that God destined for our glory before time began. these are the things God has revealed to us by his Spirit. The Spirit searches all things, even the deep things of God. (1 Corinthians 2:6, 7, 10 NIV)
One of the things I like best about being an ELCA Lutheran is that we are not required to leave our brains at the door when we enter the church. We are not require to believe that the earth is only 6,000 years old. We are not required to believe that the creation stories in Genesis are meant to be historically and scientifically accurate.
BUT... There is a lot to be said for mystery and the revelation of the Spirit. It is that mystery and power of the Holy Spirit that causes my tears to flow at every baptism I witness. The same mystery and Spirit is at work when I feel the sense of spiritual unity as I connect to the person offering communion. Or when I think of those events in my life I hold dear because I know that it was God working and bringing a miracle to comfort me... A miracle that my super sophisticated and so smart brain can't explain away.
Yes, I love that I'm allowed to use my brain, but I also love that God still fills me with mystery and wonder too. If we could figure God out, he wouldn't be God.
Awesome, amazing God,
Thank you for the wonder and awe you bring to our very souls. Help us, in our pitiful need to explain all things, to just enjoy some of the mystery. Amen.
Joys: a nice, relaxing weekend with Richard; big smiles from Emma; my morning coffee
One of the things I like best about being an ELCA Lutheran is that we are not required to leave our brains at the door when we enter the church. We are not require to believe that the earth is only 6,000 years old. We are not required to believe that the creation stories in Genesis are meant to be historically and scientifically accurate.
BUT... There is a lot to be said for mystery and the revelation of the Spirit. It is that mystery and power of the Holy Spirit that causes my tears to flow at every baptism I witness. The same mystery and Spirit is at work when I feel the sense of spiritual unity as I connect to the person offering communion. Or when I think of those events in my life I hold dear because I know that it was God working and bringing a miracle to comfort me... A miracle that my super sophisticated and so smart brain can't explain away.
Yes, I love that I'm allowed to use my brain, but I also love that God still fills me with mystery and wonder too. If we could figure God out, he wouldn't be God.
Awesome, amazing God,
Thank you for the wonder and awe you bring to our very souls. Help us, in our pitiful need to explain all things, to just enjoy some of the mystery. Amen.
Joys: a nice, relaxing weekend with Richard; big smiles from Emma; my morning coffee