ministry and moments in Maine

Psalm 27

2010-02-27T14:27:00.002-05:00

I have been working on the sermon for tomorrow with a focus on the 27th Psalm, written by King David. The words have become more and more like Poetry and so I want to share them with any an all who are reading this.

1The Lord is my light and my salvation;
whom shall I fear?
The Lord is the stronghold of my life;
of whom shall I be afraid?
2When evildoers assail me to devour my flesh—
my adversaries and foes—
they shall stumble and fall.
3Though an army encamp against me,
my heart shall not fear;
though war rise up against me,
yet I will be confident.
4One thing I asked of the Lord,
that will I seek after:
to live in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,
to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple.
5For he will hide me in his shelter in the day of trouble;
he will conceal me under the cover of his tent;
he will set me high on a rock.
6Now my head is lifted up above my enemies all around me,
and I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy;
I will sing and make melody to the Lord.
7Hear, O Lord, when I cry aloud, be gracious to me and answer me!
8“Come,” my heart says, “seek his face!”
Your face, Lord, do I seek.
9Do not hide your face from me.
Do not turn your servant away in anger, you who have been my help. Do not cast me off, do not forsake me, O God of my salvation!
10If my father and mother forsake me,
the Lord will take me up.
11Teach me your way, O Lord,
and lead me on a level path because of my enemies.
12Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries,
for false witnesses have risen against me,
and they are breathing out violence.
13I believe that I shall see the goodness of the Lord
in the land of the living.
14Wait for the Lord;
be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!
(Oremus Bible - NRSV)

I then came across this work by Cheryl Ann Toliver in response to the Psalm. I found it to be truthful and direct. Enjoy...

Psalm 27
by Cheryl Ann Toliver

The world's gone mad!

Our God-given reason is overthrown By our animal craving for blood.

My own desperate prayer for reason Is stifled by overwhelming fear.

I see only the destruction our madness will bring in its wake - misery, poverty, hatred, despair, evil, chaos - As the 21st century's first decade disintegrates into insane war.
All that is good - morality, kindness, mercy, patience, compassion, self-control, forgiveness, wisdom - seems lost, forsaken.

We reject the Spirit's power to act in our lives,

Exposing humanity's ugly wretchedness without God's grace, And thus, we have damned ourselves.
How have we come to this hell?

When did we set out on this "inevitable" path?

Why can we find no other way? What has blinded us to your grace, O! Holy God?

Where, O! Lord, is your salvation from this mad darkness? Who but Thee can save us from ourselves?
I hear you cry out to us, Lord - "Don't be molded by the world, be metamorphosized!

Let your reasoning be completely, utterly new,

So you can comprehend what is good through my eyes.

Then you'll understand that you need to bless those you hate,

Instead of inciting more evil and anger and hatred

By seeking to repay the evil done against you with more evil.

You can only overcome evil with good.

Goodness is the only weapon that can destroy evil. It's the only cure for your insanity and unending cycles of hatred and vengeance."
So few hear you, Lord God. Yet, in my despair, I hear your words of comfort - "I am your hope, your salvation, your fortress. Why are you afraid?

Evil may assail you, lay siege and make war against you,

But it will fail. I am your shelter from trouble on the high ground.

You will one day walk before your enemies without fear or shame."
So, Almighty God, Holy Lord,

In the midst of the world's madness, whatever terror is to come,

You are with me. You say, "seek me", and I do seek Thee. I will seek your grace amid our human wretchedness and evil

And I will yet live to see your good triumph.
Now help me to wait for you, Lord God.

Help me to be strong, to not be afraid, in the overwhelming madness,

So I may endure the coming metamorphosis.

Cheryl Ann Toliver grew up in rural Idaho and small-town Colorado, had her first experience of encountering Jesus as a child of 7, and has been writing poetry since she was 11 years old. She has been in California for the last 19 years, working as an editor of a legal index database. Copies of her poetry book Visions, are available for no charge or a small donation. Contacting her at: c.a.toliver@sbcglobal.net

An inward or outward church?

2009-08-07T16:45:00.002-04:00

My good friend Allen Ewing-Merrill recently wrote this article and it speaks to me about what it means to be "the church". His reflection reveals an easy way for churches to move from survive to thrive mode. It's as simple as turning in a different direction...ok, so it's not quite that simple but once we stop looking into the circle and look out, we will see some amazing things revealed to us that we could never see before. Enjoy it and let me know what you think....

COMMENTARY: Inward or outward?

If you want to see me get all worked up, talk to me about how we in the church need to take care of ourselves before we can begin to look outward. This happened recently at a monthly interfaith meeting that I facilitate. We were brainstorming about joint community outreach projects when one of my colleagues spoke up. I’m sure he had no idea he was about to push one of my buttons. “You know, we have to take care of ourselves before we can begin to look to the needs of others,” he said. “We’re a very busy church with a lot going on. We’ve got to take care of our own needs first.” Oh man. I wanted to jump across the table.

My first thought: Does this guy read the same Gospels I read? Are we following the same Jesus? I spoke up with more passion than substance, letting him know that I totally disagreed. I think it surprised him. But isn’t this why so many of our churches are struggling—or on the edge of closing their doors—because we’ve lost our bearings, because we’ve become little more than social clubs focused on institutional maintenance? Does anybody really believe that when we’ve taken care of all of our own needs, when the institution is finally running like a well-oiled machine, when we’ve focused inwardly long enough, that somehow we’ll then have the resources to begin caring for needs outside our church? Does anybody really believe this?

Before we moved to Portland, I served a church that had bounced back dramatically from a place of dismal decline. The church, once strong, had declined over the decades, not unlike other mainline Protestant churches across the U.S. Worship attendance was such that in the winter, they’d move out of the sanctuary into a small adjacent meeting room because they couldn’t afford to heat the big, beautiful sanctuary and they were also small enough that they could. Their focus was inward. Morale was low. They wondered how long they’d survive. But then over the course of a decade or so, this congregation experienced dramatic change. Worship attendance began to grow from a low of about 40 to close to 300.

The church came alive with children, youth and adults of all ages. A growing spiritual vitality produced diverse programs of mission and ministry that enlivened the church and impacted the community. This church had experienced revitalization—new life! I remember hearing a pastor from another church trying to understand what had led to such dramatic change.

One of the church’s leaders described it this way: “We used to be a church that looked inward. We were most concerned that the bills were paid, and when money was tight, we worked harder to balance the budget. All of our efforts went into trying to keep this church afloat.” (How many churches could describe themselves this way?) “But then one day, a newcomer stood up during the sharing of joys and concerns, and through tears, she shared her struggle. She had a parent back in Brazil who was dying, and she was desperate to make it home to see this parent before it was too late. It was hard for her to ask, but she wondered if there was anyone who might be able to help her financially.” Presented with a challenge, the church’s members began to understand that they could help a sister in need. The tearful concern of an immigrant in their midst grabbed their hearts and took precedent over a balanced church budget. They began to work together to meet the need of the newcomer and it became their rallying cry. When they were able to raise enough funds to send this person to Brazil, they realized God could use them for powerful things. “Our focus changed, from inward to outward,” said the church leader, “and that made all the difference. Once we began looking outward, we never stopped.”

There were many factors that led to this church’s revitalization, but the point was clear: When the focus is outward, some of the inward things begin to take care of themselves.
Allen Ewing-Merrill, Aug 6, 2009

The Rev. Ewing-Merrill and his wife, Sara, co-pastor Chestnut UMC and New Light community in Portland, Maine. This was excerpted from his blog at forwardonthejourney.blogspot.com.

Run for your life!!!!!

2009-07-08T10:09:00.002-04:00

I received this email from Tangle.com. They send out daily videos for reflection and consideration. This video created a variety of emotions within me. What really struck me was the call to run from the church. He wasn't calling us to run from all churches but certain ones (I'll let you watch to see which ones he talks about). I am interested to hear what folks think. Do we know such churches? Are we such a church? What can keep us from falling into such categories...

Click on the title for today's post to see the video...

"Good for nothing"

2009-07-01T15:22:00.003-04:00

How many times do we look at someone through our eyes and wonder if they can ever amount to anything. We've got a vision, a thought, an expectation, or whatever that allows us to only see this person in one way. Or, maybe we've been the one being viewed and heard the words "good for nothing" spoken in our direction.

I came across this story on sermons.com and it reminded me that even when the world sees us as a failure, God has given us gifts that will make us a sure success if we will but use them. Some will make us successful by the standards of this world but all of them, whether appreciated by those around us or not, will help us to be a part of the great success of God's kingdom on earth.

Some can cut fish and others can swing a bat...both can lead to success...

Switching Tracks

Sometimes the best thing we can do is to move on to another field. Paul Harvey tells the story of Joe, who was born into a family of Sicilian immigrants, a family who had a 300-year history as fishermen. Joe's dad was a fisherman. His brothers were fishermen. But Joe was made sick by the smell of raw fish and the motion of a rocking boat. In a family where the only acceptable way to earn a living was by fishing, Joe was a failure. His dad used to refer to his son as "good for nothing." Joe believed his dad. He believed that his attempts at other types of work were an admission of failure, but he just couldn't stand the smell of the fishing business. One thing that Joe could do was to play baseball. Giving up a field where he could not succeed, Joe DiMaggio moved to another field and became one of the great successes of baseball.

David G. Rogne, Sermons for Sundays after Pentecost

Do we have the courage to dance alone?

2009-06-30T13:12:00.005-04:00

While checking out facebook today I found this connection through Leonard Sweet. As you watch the video that is found on this page, consider the questions that are asked below about leadership. As ambassadors of Christ, sometimes we may feel we are dancing alone but in reality it might simply be that we are giving others the courage and empowerment to join us and to dance as well. What do you think? Consider the words of the song as well as the actions. I am amazed at how the initial folks walked to him but soon, as people experienced the excitement and joy from a distance, they began to run and wanted to be a part of it. How might we share the excitement we have for Jesus and the faith community in which we worship so that others might come running and when they get there, feel a part of something very special...

97 Pounds...how do we carry things?

2009-06-29T18:44:00.002-04:00

Found this story on one of my daily devotionals "Mountain Wings" and wanted to share it...

97 Pounds
==========

It was a national holiday. I was at work; everyone else was off. It was one of those privileges of the boss.

The doorbell rang at the front door. I left my office and went to open it. It was a UPS driver.

"How many boxes do you have," I asked.
"Just one," he replied "but it's 97 pounds.

I told him that he could just drive the truck up to the front, and I could take the box off and leave it in the lobby. He then explained that the truck was dock height, and his back wasn't in good shape and that he didn't like to lift boxes from the back of the truck to the ground. I understood.

I then told him that we could just take it off and leave it on the dock, and I would bring it inside later. To open the dock doors required me to walk through the dark warehouse area, unlock the gates and open the doors so I just walked around to the dock area from outside.

As we both lifted the box he said, "I think they lied about that 97 pounds."

About 30 minutes later, I opened the dock doors and began to lift the box. It wasn't just heavy, it was awkward. You had to really spread your arms to get a grip on the box, and I could feel the pull on my back. I thought about the UPS driver's back and decided to get a hand truck.

I maneuvered the box onto the hand truck and rolled it easily into the warehouse. You could roll that reportedly 97-pound box with two fingers and absolutely no strain. I was amazed at the ease of movement with the hand truck versus pure muscle power.

God then spoke.
"That's the difference, when going through life, between a happy attitude and outlook and a sour one."

The same box, the same distance and the same result but a vastly different effort was required using my muscles or the hand truck.

Use the happy hand truck with your heavy loads.

"For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."
(Mat 11:30 KJV)

~A MountainWings Original~

Forward this issue to a friend or send them the link below:
http://www.mountainwings.com/past/9180.htm

Prayer of Thomas Merton

2009-01-29T10:50:00.002-05:00

As I was looking at Lindsay's blog, I found this prayer by Thomas Merton. How power the words are! A realization, like I often have, that I want to be following God's will, I believe I am following God's will, but in reality, only God knows if I am. I find comfort in Merton's last words of trust that God is always with me and will never leave me to face my perils alone. How do you see your relationship with Christ? Is it one of confidence, arrogance, assurance, doubt, uncertainty? I believe a humble relationship is a good place to start and grow. Humble in the sense of placing God in the center of our lives and allowing ourselves to follow one whom we cannot see, touch, hear, taste, but is always there in ways that we can't even begin to comprehend.

Prayer of Thomas Merton
My Lord God I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think I am following your will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that my desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope that I have that desire in all that I am doing. I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire. And I know that if I do this you will lead me by the right road though I may know nothing about it. Therefore will I trust you always though I may seem to be lost and in the shadow of death. I will not fear, for you are every with me, and you will never leave me to face my perils alone. Thomas Merton (1915-1968)

Lindsay's favorite quotes and pictures

2009-01-29T10:43:00.003-05:00

Over the years I have made many wonderful friends through worship. I can't remember the exact year that it happened, but I met two of those friends. They were from NJ and were up visiting a grandson, daughter, and husband. Each year they journey to Maine for a period of time. Maybe I get to see them for a couple of weeks or maybe just for a visit. But like the sun, they are faithful and will always make an appearance when in the area. Their names are Lindsay and Sue. Lindsay just recently wrote to tell me that at 76 (almost 77) he was going to start a blog that mixed quotes, scripture, and photos he has collected over the years. I invite you to check it out and to support his ministry of words and wonders!

What do you think?

2009-01-23T16:02:00.002-05:00

We get images and pictures of God's presence in tragedies and miracles. Here is another. As we look at God holding up the plane, how do we see those same strong hands supporting us in life threatening events? Do we acknowledge that it is God who holds us up when we can't stand, keeps us warm when we are chivering from the cold of the world, keeps us comfortable when we find life uncomfortable? As I looked at the picture, and as I remembered the live images of the people standing on the wings, it did appear that somehow they were being held up. Now if I can just remember that in my life when something shuts down my engines and I think I'm going to crash. God gave "Sully" the experience, wisdom, and ability to land the plane where it would do the least harm and save the most folks, why don't we remain calm and believe that God will do the same in our lives? Something to think about...Did I mention I am flying out of JFK next week???

A Prayer for a New President and a New America

2009-01-17T09:29:00.006-05:00

In the January issue of "Sojourners" there are prayers for the new president. As I was reading through them I found one by Shane Claiborne that really struck home. It is a prayer of confession and hope. There are many others who wrote prayers and letters to the new president but this one stood out for me and where I am. Let me know what you think...

God of love, grace, and hope, thank you for creating a perfect world. Forgive us for the mess we have made of it. Forgive us for the groaning of creation, for the millions who die of hunger and curable diseases, for warehousing people in prisons and using them for labor, for the scandal of billions wasted in war, for an economy that mirrors the seven deadly sins, for the violence and greed in our own hearts. Save us from ourselves.
Give us the courage to bless the poor in a world that blesses the middle class, to bless the meek in a world that admires aggression, to bless the hungry in a world that feeds the already fed, to bless the merciful in a world that shows no mercy on evildoers, to bless the pure in heart in a world of clutter and noise, to bless the peacemakers in a world that baptizes bombs.
Give us imagination that we might not conform to the patterns of this world, that we might shatter indifference and interrupt injustice with grace, that we might choose the cross over the sword, that we might be as shrewd as serpents and as innocent as doves, that we might consider the lilies and sparrows as they shame Wall Street's splendor, that we might choose the dream of God over the dreams of nations, that we might cling to the God who so loved the world, not just America, that we might allow our Jesus to change America rather than America to change our Jesus.

Giving blood with a spiritual perspective...

2009-01-11T21:39:00.002-05:00

Below is a daily reflection on giving blood. What do you think about what he has to say? I found it quite interesting and gives the whole process a new look for me...

Have a great day and don't forget to give blood if you are able...

Blood
======

I gave blood today.

It was the first time in over 6 years and I had only donated once before. As I reflect on the day's event, I see spiritual truth and application in what appears to be a simple thing.

Christianity is symbolized by the cross. The blood of Jesus is the verbal wording and pictorial image of the sacrifice and salvation for Christians. If you are not Christian, bear with me, this will relate.

The symbol of the organization that collects blood to save lives is The Red Cross. I got a chance to stare at it while I was on the donating couch. It's not a Christian cross, it's a plus sign.

Most of the south is Christian by a large majority. Less than 5% of the eligible population donates blood. I saw interesting parallels in the blood donation today.

Most Christians don't truly donate of their blood in helping strangers. Blood is blood. Blood is money. Blood is effort.

In Christianity, it takes pure blood to save life and give salvation. At the Red Cross, you have a battery of questions to answer concerning past disease and sexual partners. You must consent to have your blood tested for AIDS and other diseases. If your blood isn't healthy or pure, you can't donate. If it doesn't test clean, they won't give it to anyone.

You sacrifice material resources.
They don't pay you for your blood and they don't reimburse you for transportation costs. You have to get to the donation center on your own. Real spiritual mission often means that you will sacrifice your material resources, not get rich.

You sacrifice time.
It took about an hour and a half. By the time you fill out the forms, answer the questions, have a mini-physical, have your blood drawn, and wait 15 minutes to get up, it takes an hour and a half. You will never get spiritual growth and reward without investing time.

It hurts.
No, it is not excruciating pain but you have to be stuck twice.
Once in the finger so they can determine whether you have enough hemoglobin in your blood. If you don't, you might faint. Once in the arm as they draw the blood. If it felt good, you wouldn't need a higher leading to do it. You would do it from the gratification of the flesh. So it is with spiritual things, it often hurts to change and make sacrifice.

There are risks.
Although donating blood is statistically very safe, there is a slight chance that something could go wrong.
Walk the narrow path and there are great risks.

If someone doesn't give, others will die.

All of the above are spiritual principles and each one you must endure to really help. Becoming unselfish and helping others is the basis for all spiritual disciplines.

If you ever want to meet a special breed of people, go to a Red Cross donation center. Don't go to the commercial centers where they pay you for your blood, go where the donors give their blood without pay.

There were five other people giving blood when I went.
There was a black woman in her 30's. Two white men in their mid 30's to 40's and two white women in their 50's or 60's. The attendant knew three of the donors by first name.
Evidently, they were regulars. All of them had a peace about them. For lack of a better word, they had a spirit of goodness.

The Southern Red Cross needs 1,200 units of blood a week.
This is the largest collection facility in Atlanta. There were a total of six people in the room.

If you ever want to see what a real giver looks like. Go to a Red Cross collection center. Think about it. What type of person takes their time, gas and automobile to give something that will go to someone that they don't even know? A giver, that's what type.

I felt an urge to go today for the second time in over six years. I decided to go every 56 days. That's the most you can donate. One pint every 56 days.

I always knew the need. I always knew that someone had to give the blood. I was always too busy and figured someone

else would do it.

Do you figure someone else will do it?

I don't necessarily mean donating blood. I mean the things that you see around you that you know need to be done. We are too busy and we figure "it will get done by someone else".

Maybe it's time to move to being a giver. Not just with your immediate family, but to someone that you don't even know.

Oddly enough, the Red Cross runs into critical shortages of blood during the first two weeks of January each year.
People don't give very much during the holidays.

It is an interesting thought, that in the very season of giving, giving the gift of life is at it's lowest.

It's three hours later and I actually feel better. Not just mentally, I physically feel better.

The shedding of blood was a medical practice from the 5th century to after the time of George Washington. Doctors believed that to lose some blood periodically kept you healthier. That is of course considered medical non-sense now but who knows what truth the ancients knew?

The red, white and blue barbers pole is from the practice of bloodletting. The red stood for blood, the blue for veins and the white for the bandage. You went to the barbershop to get a haircut and some blood let out. That blood however, went in the trash, not to save lives. They thought it improved their health and kept them from getting sick or if they were sick it made them well.

The old fashioned barbers even used leeches. Sound terrible doesn't it? Well, they are now using leeches in modern surgery. Like I said, who knows what truth the ancients knew.

Heart disease is our leading killer. Most of it results from the blood clotting because it's too thick. Maybe if we shed a little every now and then our own blood wouldn't be so thick. Women outlive men in every country on earth.
They shed blood every 28 days. 2 x 28 = 56

Just an interesting thought.

The Christian cross and The Red Cross are both plusses if you understand the math.

It's the type of math where when you subtract something from you,

...you add something to you.

~A MountainWings Original~
-------------------------------------------------
MountainWings A MountainWings Moment
#1013 Wings Over The Mountains of Life
-------------------------------------------------

My name is David and I'm a work-a-holic..

2008-12-17T15:19:00.002-05:00

I've seen this before but I am reading it today just after the conclusion of a funeral. This person would have been 81 today. The reality is that none of us are promised tomorrow and so it's important that we consider just how precious our time is to those whom we love. I remember being in school and having my son Chris come to my desk and ask if he could make an appointment for Saturday so that we could spend time together. This season of Advent has been very busy and the church has seen far more of me than my wife. It's time to change that because my time with her is priceless! I invite you to read and reflect...

A man came home from work late, tired and irritated, to find his 5-year old son waiting for him at the door.

SON: 'Daddy, may I ask you a question?'

DAD: 'Yeah sure, what it is?' replied the man.

SON: 'Daddy, how much do you make an hour?'

DAD: 'That's none of your business. Why do you ask such a thing?' the man said angrily.

SON: 'I just want to know. Please tell me, how much do you make an hour?'

DAD: 'If you must know, I make $50 an hour.'

SON: 'Oh,' the little boy replied, with his head down.

SON: 'Daddy, may I please borrow $25?'

The father was furious, 'If the only reason you asked that is so you can borrow some money to buy a silly toy or some other nonsense, then you march yourself straight to your room and go to bed. Think about why you are being so selfish. I don't work hard everyday for such childish frivolities.'

The little boy quietly went to his room and shut the door..

The man sat down and started to get even angrier about the little boy's questions. How dare he ask such questions only to get some money?

After about an hour or so, the man had calmed down , and started to think:

Maybe there was something he really needed to buy with that $25.00 and he really didn't ask for money very often The man went to the door of the little boy's room and opened the door.

'Are you asleep, son?' He asked.

'No daddy, I'm awake,' replied the boy.

'I've been thinking, maybe I was too hard on you earlier' said the man. 'It's been a long day and I took out my aggravation on you. Here's the $25 you asked for.'

The little boy sat straight up, smiling. 'Oh, thank you daddy!' he yelled. Then, reaching under his pillow he pulled out some crumpled up bills.

The man saw that the boy already had money, started to get angry again.

The little boy slowly counted out his money, and then looked up at his father.

'Why do you want more money if you already have some?' the father grumbled.

'Because I didn't have enough, but now I do,' the little boy replied.

'Daddy, I have $50 now.. Can I buy an hour of your time? Please come home early tomorrow. I would like to have dinner with you.'

The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little son, and he begged for his forgiveness.

It's just a short reminder to all of you working so hard in life. We should not let time slip through our fingers without having spent some time with those who really matter to us, those close to our hearts. Do remember to share that $50 worth of your time with someone you love.

If we die tomorrow, the company that we are working for could easily replace us in a matter of hours. But the family & friends we leave behind will feel the loss for the rest of their lives.

Antsy? No Ant-see. It's a great view!!!!

2008-12-12T07:20:00.004-05:00

As we struggle with the various events and experiences in our lives, here is an interesting story from across the world that might help to give us a little perspective on how we can see things if we do not, or we do, trust them to God...I know if gave me something to think about...

The Child's Ant
================

God had been trying to get my attention for some months, but I was too deep in debt to hear Him. However, it took just one divinely orchestrated incident to put everything in perspective.

I had woken up early to prepare my two little daughters for school. As I tried to put the older one in the bathtub, she saw an ant right there. You would have thought she saw a viper.

All my entreaties to her to put down her feet were ignored: her greatest problem at that point was an ant. To her, an ant was a big deal, but it wasn't to me. I could easily take care of an ant any day. Then I got impatient with her for fearing an ant.

At that point, I had a MountainWings Moment! It was as if I heard an audible voice: "Is that not what you have been doing to me all these past months?"

What? You mean all the debts I thought were big enough to crush me were like that ant to God? I had to apologize for having a low impression of God.

Today, a few months later, all the debts are gone.

~A MountainWings Original by Sylvester Ojenagbon, Lagos, Nigeria~

Forward this issue to a friend or send them the link below:
http://www.mountainwings.com/past/8347.htm

2008-11-29T22:00:00.003-05:00

Received this and it gives some perspective to how we consider ourselves in God's plans. Yes, we make mistakes and sometimes really screw up but if God can do amazing things with the folks below, what can God do with you?!?!?

Here's another thought, as we do God's work, we might also consider what God can do with the folks we've labeled because of their bad habits or characteristics.....hmmmmm

The next time you feel like GOD can't use you, just remember...
Noah was a drunk
Abraham was too old
Isaac was a daydreamer
Jacob was a liar
Leah was ugly
Joseph was abused
Moses had a stuttering problem
Gideon was afraid
Sampson had long hair and was a womanizer
Rahab was a prostitute
Jeremiah and Timothy were too young
David had an affair and was a murderer
Elijah was suicidal
Isaiah preached naked
Jonah ran from God
Naomi was a widow
Job went bankrupt
John the Baptist ate bugs
Peter denied Christ
The Disciples fell asleep while praying
Martha worried about everything
The Samaritan woman was divorced,
more than once Zaccheus was too small
Paul was too religious
Timothy had an ulcer...

AND

Lazarus was dead!

What do you have that’s worse than that?
So no more excuses!

God can use you to your full potential. Besides you aren't the message, you are just the messenger.

(Mountainwings #4289)

It was an interesting day...

2008-11-29T16:35:00.004-05:00

On July 11, 2008 my dad died from a horrific disease Stevens Johnson Syndrome. It has no cure and they hope it works through the body and then the person gets better. In his case, it covered almost 95% of his body by the time he could fight no longer. As we walked through the next few days, I thought ahead to the "first" holidays without dad and figured they were a long way away.

On Thursday, Thanksgiving Day, I realized that these past months went very quickly. As I awoke, I gave thanks that mom had come down the night before to help us get ready for the day. I think just having her around was a great way for me to prepare. We were only going to be a group of six folks but I wasn't sure what to expect. I decided I wanted to go for a run in the morning and not wanting to focus on the "pain" of running, I decided to think about dad. I began to create a list of thanks to God for how God had blessed my life through James H. Abbott Jr. Though I didn't finish the list on the road, I'd like to share what I did think of and add a few more. It won't be a complete list as I continue to reflect on the many ways that dad impacted and empowered my life, but it's a beginning.

God,

Today I give you thanks for my dad and the special times we had together...

For getting us involved in rabbits and though I wasn't real good about feeding and cleaning them you still shared them with me in love. I will always remember the fairs, the best of show, ohJ, the new friends we made who also showed rabbits.

For giving me a chance the day that Russell and I made a really dumb decision. I figured I'd be punished for weeks but you figured I had learned enough and anything you did wouldn't be beneficial. By doing nothing, you did everything.

For driving from Bath to Winthrop in the spring when I played baseball for the team the Gulls. We were horrible and only one two games but you were always supportive and willing to drive the hour each way to see some really bad baseball.

For taking me with you on those weekends when we opened Mechuwana and for being the director for three years. Had you not been the director there I am not sure if I would have come to know the power and presence of God, not only on that holy ground, but also in my life. It was at Mechuwana that I struggled with what it meant to be called by God.

For crying when I graduated from the University of Maine. I tell folks that was the first time I saw tears in your eyes and it meant a great deal to me as your son. I knew I had done good when I saw your smile moistened by tears. It gave me the freedom to share my tears with my boys, both of sadness and joy at very important moments in all of our lives.

For going to Washington DC for my Doctoral graduation. I wasn't all that interested in the event until Lisa pushed me to go and when I saw your determination I began to give thanks to God that we could share it together.

For your loyalty to your doctors. Though we will always disagree on it, you did show me that we've got to trust in folks, especially when we don't know. At the same time, I want to thank you for being willing to get a second opinion or two as we struggled with your cancer.

For teaching me that if there is something we can't fix or change, we can't let it take up our life. If we can do something about it, great, do it. If we can't, use the time to make a difference somewhere else. When I've been worried about decisions that others are making, I've let go and done other things, knowing I couldn't impact thier choice. It saved me a great deal of "worry time".

For supporting mom in her many ministries. You showed me that it's just as important to be the support person as it is to be the person on the move. Your grace and love of that role helped me to pull back and allow others to do "their thing". It has been a blessing as I've witnessed some amazing things.

For loving me as me. For telling me again and again that you loved me and for telling me whenever you could that you were proud of me. In a world where love is sometimes a scarce commodity and folks would rather tear you down than build you up, you helped me to understand that love is always in abundance and encouragement should be shared whenever you've got the chance. I end every conversation with my boys by telling them I love them and never miss a chance to let them know how awed I am at the great things they are doing.

There are many more things to which I give thanks to God for my dad and I'll continue to lift them up as often as I can. I realize that for some folks, "dad" was a word that had no meaning or only negative images. Dad and I did tussle and disagree but whenever I say "dad" my eyes tear up but my heart fills with love and thanksgiving.

Yes, the holidays are here. Yes, it is a challenge to be without him. Yes, I am very blessed to have a mom who is just as great as my dad was. And yes, if you haven't told your parents, or those who raised you, that you love them, don't waste another minute for you never know when you'll only be able to say it in a prayer.

I love you dad!

(The picture is of our family at a family reunion last summer.)

A different perspective...who is the real pane...

2008-11-11T08:49:00.003-05:00

I received this email from "mountainwings" today that was a real eye opener. How many times have we complained about how people are doing things? How many times have we come up with just the solution they need to make their life better? As we head into this time of the year when folks are collecting food for the hungry, before we talk about those who "abuse" the system, maybe we ought to think of how we are looking at those very folks with our "Christ-like" eyes...

A young couple moves into a new neighborhood. The next morning while they are eating breakfast, the young woman sees her neighbor hanging the wash outside. "That laundry is not very clean," she said. "She doesn't know how to wash correctly. Perhaps she needs better laundry soap." Her husband looked on, but remained silent. Every time her neighbor would hang her wash to dry, the young woman would make the same comments.

About one month later, the woman was surprised to see a nice clean wash on the line and said to her husband: "Look, she has learned how to wash correctly. I wonder who taught her this?" The husband said, "I got up early this morning and cleaned our windows." And so it is with life. What we see when watching others depends on the purity of the window through which we look. ~Author Unknown~

Psalm 23...It's more than just a reading at a funeral!

2008-10-27T12:09:00.001-04:00

The Lord is my Shepherd = That's Relationship!

I shall not want = That's Supply!

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures = That's Rest!

He leadeth me beside the still waters = That's Refreshment!

He restoreth my soul = That's Healing!

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness = That's Guidance!

For His name sake = That's Purpose!

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of Death = That's Tribulations!

I will fear no evil = That's Protection!

For Thou art with me = That's Faithfulness!

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me = That's Discipline!

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies =That's Hope!

Thou anointest my head with oil = That's Consecration!

My cup runneth over = That's Abundance!

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life =That's Blessing!

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord = That's Security!

Forever = That's Eternity!

Face it, the Lord is crazy about you.

It's time to come back...

2008-10-24T09:52:00.003-04:00

It's been many months since I last wrote in my blog. My dad died on July 11, 2008 and I've been trying to figure out how to walk through this event and begin to share again on the blog. I've had many good intentions but I've not had to right words to share. Today though, I want to share a connection to a PBS story about Camp Ray of Hope (Click on the words for the link) held at Mechuwana (truly sacred and healing ground in my life). I'm not involved whatsoever in the camp, though a member of the congregation I serve is, but it spoke to me of grief, loss, and building back what has been crushed and taken away. Thanks for being patient. I'll see you soon on these pages...

The Upper Room: A wonderful daily devotional to share with you.

2008-07-17T08:01:00.003-04:00

I receive the Upper Room Devotional by email each day. Many times I quickly read through it, especially as I recognize the text upon which they are focusing. As a pastor, I've used parts of the following text in funerals to celebrate how someone with an illness or disease endured their final days. As I read through the July 10th reading this morning (I'm a little behind on things!), it spoke to me in amazing ways in relation to how we as members of the Body of Christ and the world around us should see each other. I hope you enjoy it as well. If you've like to receive this devotional on a daily basis, read all the way to the bottom. I realize there is a copyright law involved in sharing this, but I believe that they would be very happy to know that their work is helping to build God's kingdom here on earth...

Thursday, July 10, 2008
Let Us Pray with You
The Living Prayer Center is a 24-hour, 7-day-a-week intercessory prayer ministry staffed by Christian volunteers. Submit prayer requests online (English or Spanish) or call and speak to one of our volunteers (English) at 1-800-251-2468 (U.S. and Canada) or 1-615-327-4673 (International).

Cracked Pots

Suggested Bible Reading
Therefore, since it is by God's mercy that we are engaged in this ministry, we do not lose heart. We have renounced the shameful things that one hides; we refuse to practice cunning or to falsify God's word; but by the open statement of the truth we commend ourselves to the conscience of everyone in the sight of God. And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God. For we do not proclaim ourselves; we proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and ourselves as your slaves for Jesus' sake. For it is the God who said, "Let light shine out of darkness," who has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be made visible in our bodies. For while we live, we are always being given up to death for Jesus' sake, so that the life of Jesus may be made visible in our mortal flesh. So death is at work in us, but life in you. But just as we have the same spirit of faith that is in accordance with scripture--"I believed, and so I spoke"--we also believe, and so we speak, because we know that the one who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus, and will bring us with you into his presence. Yes, everything is for your sake, so that grace, as it extends to more and more people, may increase thanksgiving, to the glory of God. So we do not lose heart. Even though our outer nature is wasting away, our inner nature is being renewed day by day. For this slight momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory beyond all measure, because we look not at what can be seen but at what cannot be seen; for what can be seen is temporary, but what cannot be seen is eternal.
-2 Corinthians 4:1-18 (NRSV)

Today's ScriptureWe have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us.
-2 Corinthians 4:7 (NRSV)

MY life in Christ has helped me to accept the nature of the clay jar that I am. I have weaknesses. I have strengths. For some people who know me, my strengths outweigh my weaknesses. For others, my weaknesses outweigh my good traits. But we all live somewhere between what we have been and what God is reshaping us to be.
This is an image of God's kingdom. We live in an "already-but-not-yet" time. God's salvation in Christ has already come, but it is not yet enjoyed by all people and all creation. Jesus gave us a glimpse of God's future glory, but its full realization remains future. We live between the already of what God has done and the not-yet of what God will do. The work God has begun in us is not complete.
Yet God's glory is seen clearly in our sinful, broken, imperfect humanity. "We have this treasure in clay jars." We can focus on the clay jar, or we can focus on the treasure. We can condemn each other for being a cracked, chipped, misshapen, leaky, brittle, traditional, or contemporary jar. But if we focus on the treasure, we have hope - hope for me, for you, for enemies as well as friends, for the world - because the treasure is God's extraordinary power at work in us.
Mike Ripski (Tennessee, U.S.A.)
Prayer
Dear God, fulfill your purposes in the world and in us. Amen.
Thought for the Day

Today, I will look for God's treasure in myself and others.

Prayer Focus
For the peace of God among all people

Related Reading
Companions in Christ: The Way of Transforming Discipleship (Participant's Book)Discover what spiritual formation and authentic spirituality are all about in THE WAY OF TRANSFORMING DISCIPLESHIP, the sixth title in the Companions in Christ series. Reflect on what your faith means in terms of who you are, how you must change, how you deal with pain, and how you relate to others.
The scripture quotation is from the NEW REVISED STANDARD VERSION of the Bible, copyright © 1989, by the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the U.S.A. Used by permission. All rights reserved.PLEASE SHARE THIS MINISTRY with a friend. Invite them to sign up for the free E-Mail Devotional by visiting: http://www.upperroom.org/devotional/email/Copyright © 2008 by The Upper Room. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce or redistribute without written permission from the publisher. http://www.upperroom.org

Are we asking the right questions????

2008-07-10T08:23:00.002-04:00

This morning I ventured away from the sports pages of the Boston Herald and moved to the front page of the Boston Globe. I know that I should be doing this on a regular basis but I find following the moves of the Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox much more interesting. I began by reading of Senator Kennedy's return to the Senate floor to vote on the Medicare Bill and then decided to venture further into the national news of the day. It was then that I came upon this article which had me shaking my head. The argument is not whether or not the trailers are safe for human occupation but whether or not someone can be held accountable for their actions. Is there something wrong with this? Could this be one of the problems of our society today, that we don't want to accept responsibility for our actions? Or, that we don't really care about the impact of our decisions on other individuals as long as we make our profit? As we walk through the day today, I invite us to consider if we are asking the right question when making decisions. My suggestion for two possible questions would be:
1) Do we praise God with our decision?
2) Do we serve our neighbor by our actions?

If the answer to either is "No" or the decision doesn't allow for us to ask such questions, I would invite us to stop, pray, and seek God's guidance. No one should suffer from the poison of our unwillingness to make a change in our lives, even if there is a cost involved to us!

GOP backs trailer makers
Report: Firms not to blame for toxins
By Eileen Sullivan, Associated Press July 10, 2008
WASHINGTON - Manufacturers say they are not responsible for the Federal Emergency Management Agency trailers that had toxic levels of formaldehyde, despite Democrats' findings that companies knew of the dangers yet sold them to the government anyway after Hurricane Katrina.
The report by Democrats on the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee is at odds with an analysis by Republican staff members on the same committee. The Republican report backs the companies and found that trailer manufacturers should not be held accountable for the high levels of formaldehyde - a preservative commonly used in building materials - in trailers that FEMA set up to house people displaced by Katrina in 2005. Republicans say it is the government's fault for not having standards for safe levels of formaldehyde in trailers.
But Democrats say their staff interviewed employees from one of the manufacturers, Gulf Stream Coach, who said they, too, were suffering effects from formaldehyde exposure, including nose bleeds, shortness of breath, dizziness, and bleeding ears.
Gulf Stream Coach Inc., received the bulk of the FEMA trailer contracts after Katrina, collecting more than $500 million.
Henry A. Waxman, Democrat of California and committee chairman, said the Democrats' investigation found that Gulf Stream tested the trailers, but treated the results as a public relations liability instead of a health hazard.
"It found pervasive formaldehyde contamination in its trailers, and it didn't tell anyone," Waxman said yesterday.
Jim Shea, chairman of Gulf Stream, said there was no actual testing of trailers. Instead, there was informal screening with a Formaldemeter, which is not a scientific test.
Shea said, however, that his company asked FEMA in 2006 whether it should test the trailers, but FEMA said no.
Last year, scientists tested hundreds of FEMA trailers and found potentially dangerous levels of formaldehyde.
There is no government standard for the amount of formaldehyde in travel trailers. Standards are set for indoor air quality for materials used to build mobile homes, but not travel trailers. Katrina victims now occupy 15,000 travel trailers in the Gulf Coast, down from the more than 143,000 trailers that once housed victims.

Thomas Dorsey - Precious Lord, Take My Hand

2008-07-08T11:20:00.001-04:00

I received one of those massive emails that talked of the story behind this hymn and so I thought I'd journey to YouTube and see what I could find. Here is the story of Tommy Dorsey, his faith, and this song. It's wonderful to not only hear about a song, but to have the author share the true meaning of the words that God gave to them. Enjoy and then head to YouTube for a number of videos about "Precious Lord..." including Tommy Dorsey leading a church in the singing of the song.

Annual Conference for the United Methodists of New England

2008-06-16T20:38:00.002-04:00

From Thursday night to Sunday noon, lay representatives from local United Methodist Churches, clergy (active and retired), and others, gathered for our Annual Conference. It was an interesting time for listening, worshiping, and experiencing the living presence of Christ through the Holy Spirit. While there were times when I know that God was looking down and frowning at what we were doing, there were also times when God was clearly present in the testimony of others! Here are a couple of sites that give the daily happenings at AC.

News from Friday at Annual Conference

News from Saturday at Annual Conference

Prayers for a stranger...

2008-06-16T19:59:00.002-04:00

Last night, as many throughout Belfast slept in preparation for a new week, an individual, or individuals, cut a screen leading into our sanctuary and entered the church. In the darkness of the night, they collected a variety of small items (computers to coffee makers), money from the preschool downstairs as well as the food cupboard, and then loaded them into a vehicle. When the first person for the preschool arrived, they found the damage and losses.

When I was called at 6:10am, I headed for the church and arrived just before the local police. Over the next few hours we looked at doors broken by big feet, possible pieces of evidence, and discussed what had happened. Feelings of anger, guilt, frustration, and violation were common. There were tears as well as words of comfort. The church staff gathered in the sanctuary for prayer.

As we reflected on the events of the evening, our prayers were of thanksgiving that no one was in the facility when the individual(s) was there, that there was no real damage to the building, and that no one was hurt. We also prayed for the stranger whom we may never meet. We prayed for healing, for understanding, for guidance, and for peace.

It's sad that the building was broken into but God will restore the sanctity of the space just as God, through Christ, restores us when we've been violated. It's going to be strange to walk into the facility and not feel safe but I know that the real enemy is the One who is evil, not those who get lost in evil ways.

I don't know why, but as soon as I heard about the stranger and walked through the building seeing the damage, I prayed that one day we would meet and that we might be able to walk through the process of restorative justice together. I know there are people who are just evil and may never enjoy the healing presence of Christ, but I think they are the distinct minority and that many have stories, that once told, can lead to a new life of hope.

Wherever you are stranger, know that tonight there is at least one person praying for you...

Follow Me

2008-06-06T15:52:00.001-04:00

As we reflect on what it means to follow Jesus, what it is that we must give up to be a Christian, this video suggests that maybe that which we fear giving up is just extra baggage that makes any journey a difficult one. What do you think? What am I carrying that makes my following of Jesus so difficult? Maybe if I give up that which I am carrying I can make it to the top and experience the living presence of Christ in an amazing way!

Insight from a distance over time

2008-06-06T09:48:00.002-04:00

In November 2007, I had the honor of participating in the New England United Methodist Church School of Congregational Development. One of our main speakers was Tod Bolsinger, the pastor at the San Clemente Presbyterian Church and also the author of "It takes a church to raise a Christian".

On June 5th, on his blog "It takes a church", he reflected on his time in Maine. Though I know you can easily go to his blog with a click of the mouse, I am adding his complete column just in case you are more comfortable staying here. What I really find interesting are questions 2-58 in his "talkback session". It creates concern in my heart and a challenge in my soul, to remind folks that we have been given everything we need to do God's ministry, to grow the Kingdom, we've just got to take the time to figure out what God intends for us to do with our abundant blessings. In a world that is so good at forcing us to compare what we don't have with what others have, we need to remember that in God's kingdom, God has given us everything we need, and faith in that understanding brings us great peace!!

Here is the blog writing....

One Question in Maine
Last fall I was invited to speak to a conference of Methodist pastors and lay leaders in Portland, Maine. The organizers of the conference had read It Takes a Church to Raise a Christian and asked if I would be willing to come and address a group of the "movers and shakers" who were looking at new ways of church.
Now, usually, I decline outside speaking engagements because I love my church and love being at my church and have plenty of challenges speaking and teaching within my church. But when I agree to speak somewhere it is usually because it is 1) with a friend I want to spend time with, 2) in a place I want to visit or 3) I think there is something I will learn by doing it. This one fell definitely into #3. I wasn't sure what I would learn, but I had a hunch that there could be something in this setting that God wanted me to get at.
So, I flew off to Portland, Maine for a quick turn around trip (left on a Thursday, was back on a Saturday and was preaching on Sunday back at SCPC). I gave three talks on the theme of the church as the answer to Jesus' prayer "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." This set of talks has been my standard "road set" for a year now. It's the theme I most want to encourage people to consider. I like to raise a missional vision for what the church is supposed to embody for the world and I always challenge them to consider that their home church, whatever stripe it is, whatever bent, wherever it is located, is supposed to be the embodiment of God's will, the foretaste of God's new creation, a glimpse at what we long for when we speak of "heaven" or "resurrection" or "new Jerusalem." That the CHURCH is God's demonstration of his character, his love and his truth. And I challenge people to consider what that vision means to THEIR church and THEIR lives.
And then I usually leave.
But this time, they asked if I would do a "talkback with the speaker" session; a Q & A with people who want to follow up on the issues I raised in my talks. So, that afternoon, approximately 60 of the 300 or so people who attended the conference came to my "talkback". I asked the group if we could get all the questions they wanted to discuss on the table and then we'd decide where there was the most interest and energy. So, I went around the room and gathered up all the questions. It went something like this...
Question #1: "How could we get our church more involved in some place like Africa, the way your church is?" Question #2-58: "How do you turn around a dying church?"
Over and over again that was the theme: Our church is dying and "renewing it" is killing us as leaders. We so want to lead into the vision of the Kingdom that you talked about it, but no one is following. What can we do?
I hadn't spoke about church turnarounds, or leadership issues, or bringing change. I had spoken on a missional vision, of the church being the embodiment of the Kingdom. I had wanted to encourage a group of movers and shakers by giving them a grand sweeping vision of what I contend the scriptures lead us to see of what God wants the church to be and that vision had only raised more discouragement.
And this has got me thinking. A lot.
I am a big VISION guy. I believe with all my heart that without a vision, people perish and that without a biblical vision churches become stagnant, complacent and consumeristic. Recently, I have been polled and surveyed and interviewed because SCPC is one of the few growing churches in our denomination and for the better part of ten years, my explanation for why has been our "missional vision".
But more and more I am thinking that Vision, while necessary, is not nearly enough. And the huge challenge of our day is not only recapturing a biblical vision for the church, but re-learning what it takes to lead into that vision.
The "Methodists in Maine" that I met were a great, earnest, sincere, hardworking, Bible-believing, Kingdom-committed bunch. But like most churches in America today, we are facing some uncharted territory in a culture that at every turn is opposing the way we are best at living out our faith and presenting the gospel. And in many ways, I see these same forces at work in my church, too.
To meet this challenge we are going to need a clear, biblical vision and a whole different set of strategies, skills, habits and behaviors. Vision and practices. A clear picture and a new set of skills. And exploring why this is so, and what we need to do about it is about the only conversation that I am interested in being in these days.

Saint Theresa's Prayer

2008-05-28T16:37:00.001-04:00

May today there be peace within.

May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.

May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.

May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you.

May you be confident knowing you are a child of God. Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.

It is there for each and every one of us.

Gotta Serve Somebody-Bob Dylan

2008-05-22T14:47:00.001-04:00

As I read Matthew 6:24-34 I am reminded of this song by Bob Dylan. The text says that we must serve "God or wealth" while Dylan says "God or the devil" but the point is the same, we need to either serve God or some idol that most often ties directly back to evil. If we serve God we share in the fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22. If we serve wealth, we live in the moment, we buy what we can, we collect all the toys we want, but we must also slave long and hard for the money to keep up that life style. The only "wealthy" folks that I know who are joy-filled are those who use God's gift of finances to do God's work.

While the video ends with a reading from Joshua, I believe it also speaks to Matthew's reading for this coming Sunday.

Who are we going to serve? That which is temporary - wealth while we are alive, or that which is eternal - God who formed us, knows us, loves us, and calls us to a life of hope and promise?

Something to think about because you "Gotta serve somebody"!!!

WOW 2008 New England Conference

2008-05-22T14:22:00.001-04:00

A great event where not only are church transformation tools are taught but also a where the power of the Holy Spirit is caught!!! If you've got the time, join us and over 300 other Christians from around the New England area as we seek to spread God's kingdom in all places, in all ways, and all for God's glory!!!!

I can Only Imagine - Rick and Dick Hoyt

2008-04-17T15:48:00.003-04:00

What is love? What is commitment? What is sacrifice? What makes a person complete? What do we think is impossible? How long before we place those limits before God? They are not just running a local race, this is the Iron Man Triathlon!!! What will we do today that will change the world? I can only imagine...

Blind Courage - Bill Irwin

2008-04-17T15:40:00.001-04:00

On April 21, 2008 Bill will be coming to speak during both worship services. I also recently listened to his book "Blind Courage" about his journey on the trail. It was amazing!!! One story he told spoke of a man in recovery who said to throw your shoes way under the bed each night so that when you get up in the morning, you have to get on your knees to reach them. While there, say a prayer asking God to help you through the day. He said to do the same each night so that you can start your day on your knees.

Come join us if you are near enough!

Another chapter is finished...Thank you God and...

2008-04-04T09:17:00.003-04:00

I am writing to say that my three year journey through the Doctor of Ministry program at Wesley Theological Seminary is almost done. At 4:45pm yesterday, I sent two copies of my project down for a final review, binding, and inclusion in their library (does that mean I am published now???). Lisa and I went out to celebrate with a meal at one of our favorite places in town (Penobscot Bay Inn) with a gift certificate that good friends gave us at Christmas. It's been an interesting walk with Christ during the process. I was able to explore and write about a subject for which I have great passion, small membership churches, and to learn many new ways in which we can work to restore the self-esteem of those churches.

I am grateful and will certainly miss the many friends from across the country that I met and the opportunity to spend two weeks each May and January gathering with others who were very committed to growing God's kingdom here on earth. Dan, Tom, Elbert, and Victor helped to create a wonderful and varied group of individuals (African-American, Korean-American, converted Jew, Euro-American, and Louisiana-American)from which I learned a great deal. Some of our conversations about ethnicity, ministry, family, regions of our country, and just everyday stuff were priceless and very educational. Each night we'd head out for our meal and we never really knew what we'd be eating. We had Chinese food in Chinatown, Authentic Korean, Ethiopian, Mexican, American, and of course chicken from Popeyes (I don't know which food group that fits into).

I am grateful for the chance to read a wide variety of books that have helped to shape my vocabulary as well as my ministry. I give thanks for the chance to learn from professors who were committed to us as students. For those who required the traditional papers and those who challenged us to be creative. From those who talked straight through in our classes to those who encouraged a great deal of conversation amongst the students. I will always remember how we rigged up wireless in one of the few rooms without it so that we could stay up with the world on the rare occosians when the lecture didn't interest us. How many times did we use "AOL IM" to send messages to each other instead of the scraps of paper we used in high school...LOL

Most of all though, I am grateful for my wife, Lisa. She pushed me to get my doctorate when I graduated from Duke and when I brought it up three years ago, she said she knew it was only a matter of time (I think that's how long it took me to be willing to open a textbook again!!). She allowed me to travel to Washington DC for a total of four weeks for a couple of years without much comment. During one of those journies, as we were working on the Lilly Grant that blessed our lives last year, she noticed a mistake I had made and coordinated everything at home to make sure the paperwork was submitted correctly and on time. She has been a quiet and supportive presence when I've spent hours reading and writing. She gave up precious family time so that I could spend more time with Weems, Ray, and Kemp. When I finished my paper last night, she seemed just as excited as I was, and she should, for she was a vital part of getting it done.

I do want to thank God for this opportunity and challenge. I don't care about being able to be called "Doc" or "The Rev. Dr...." but rather that I received an opportunity to better serve the small membership churches to which I believe God has called me. It was God who gave me the chance, the drive, the words, and now the responsibility to use what I've received for the glory of God and the good of all.

This chapter has finished but I believe there is another one about to begin...

We have a choice....

2008-04-04T09:10:00.004-04:00

Attitude
There once was a woman who woke up one morning,
looked in the mirror,
and noticed she had only three hairs on her head.
'Well,' she said, 'I think I'll braid my hair today.'
So she did and she had a wonderful day.
The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror
and saw that she had only two hairs on her head.
'H-M-M,' she said,
'I think I'll part my hair down the middle today.'
So she did and she had a grand day.
The next day she woke up,
Looked in the mirror and noticed
that she had only one hair on her head.
'Well,' she said, 'today I'm going
to wear my hair in a pony tail.'
So she did, and she had a fun, fun day.
The next day she woke up,
looked in the mirror and noticed
that there wasn't a single hair on her head.
'YEAH!' she exclaimed.
'I don't have to fix my hair today!'

Attitude is everything.

Be kinder than necessary,
for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle .

Live simply,
Love generously,
Care deeply,
Speak kindly.

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass...

It's about learning to dance in the rain.
(A thank you to Mary for sending this along to me)

“Easter!!!!”

2008-03-23T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 23, 2008
Sunday

Christ is Risen!! He is Risen indeed!
The texts for Easter, using the Revised Common Lectionary are:

Acts 10:34-43
Psalm 118:1-2,14-24
Colossians 3:1-4
John 20:1-18
Matthew 28:1-10

“To the angel of the church of Pergamum”

2008-03-22T08:12:00.002-04:00

March 22, 2008
Saturday

Revelation 2:12-17

It’s Holy Saturday, the day between the death and resurrection of Christ. In some denominations there are prayer vigils or special services. During these times a great deal of reflection and listening to God occurs. In the city of Pergamum, God is calling them to listen to one voice, God’s divine voice. It appears that some are following other teachings and in doing so are leading God’s people into sin. God says to stop and to repent, or else.
On this day, who is it that we are listening to for guidance and direction? Is it the voice of God, sometimes small and other times like a great wind, that calls us to love and serve one another, or is it something else that may bring us temporary satisfaction but offers pain and suffering to others. When folks ask how I know if it’s God speaking to me, I tell them that I consider the results of my actions. While I may not know the final outcome, I can tell early on if I am going to be helping or hurting God’s children. If it helps, if it praises God, it is of God. Hurting does not praise God and it often hurts others. What teachings are we following? Are they helping or hurting? Do they praise God?

“It is finished”

2008-03-21T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 21, 2008
Friday

John 19:30

It’s amazing to think that we’ve come to the end of this Lenten devotional. When we were putting together the grant application, the idea sounded great. Returning to the church on November 4th, I realized I had two months to get it all together. Before I knew it, we were at the end of January, and the idea of weekly devotional was born of necessity. Rationalizing, I considered it my Lenten commitment, giving to others instead of giving up a personal vice.
Well, we’re now at the end of the devotional and I can testify that God has worked in my life in exciting ways over these forty days. Reliving the physical journey, seeing how it has enriched my spiritual walk, and causing me to look forward to new directions in my life.
When Jesus said, “It is finished”, he only meant his earthly ministry as a fully human individual. For Jesus, he might not be around but there were others to carry on the Good News. Sometimes they did it well and other times they seemed to stumble along in the dark and unknown.
That’s what I feel like as I finish this week’s entries. As I say, “this devotional is finished”, I know God has more for me to do. I am honored that I am called to lead a congregation and to serve as a pastor with the challenge to equip and empower others to go out to share the love and grace of God in the world. As you finish reading this devotional, what is God calling you to do now? How is God challenging you to equip and empower others to share the love and grace of God with the World? It’s what God wills for us. Shall we do it together?

“Into your hands I commit my Spirit”

2008-03-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 20, 2008
Thursday

Luke 23:44-46

It’s Maundy Thursday, the day that we remember the Last Supper in the upper room. It’s the night that Jesus sat with the disciples, used the common elements of bread and wine, and called them to remember him through the act of breaking and sharing in that feast. They didn’t know what it meant, but Jesus did. He knew that they would need a way to remember the love God had shared with them, and with all of us, through Jesus.
While in Turkey, there were a few times when I had the chance to touch water, remember my baptism, and give thanks to God. One of those places was in the Church of St. Peter in Antioch. The church was carved out of the side of a hill and is where Barnabas and Paul, among others, came and preached to the early Christians. Over in the corner of the room was a pool that collected water that naturally ran through the rock. When there was a baptism in the church over the years, the collected water was used in the celebration. Touching the water that day, I remembered the sacrifice and love of Jesus for me, of the great cloud of witnesses who carried the message through the generations, and my commitment to follow God’s will. It was a remembering, much like in the breaking of bread and drinking of wine.
When Jesus said, “Into your hands I commit my Spirit” in the last moments of his life, I know without a doubt that he committed his life to be guided by the Spirit. On this night when Jesus died that we might live, are you willing to commit your life to be guided by the Spirit? Don’t be afraid for such a promise offers life, not death.

“I am Thirsty”

2008-03-19T08:06:00.001-04:00

March 19, 2008
Wednesday

John 19:28

One of the interesting aspects of our time in Turkey was having water with our meals. It didn’t matter whether we were eating at a local restaurant, on the top floor of a hotel, or in a fine establishment, water was never served with the meal. By that I mean that in the US, when we go to a restaurant, we can often ask for water with our meal and they will serve it for free with or without lemon. In Turkey, we only had water with the meal when someone in our party purchased it. While in Turkey I realized how I had come to expect free water at a restaurant.
In our faith walk, what do we take for granted? Do we simply assume God is with us every step of the way? Don’t worry, God is always there, but what do we do with the knowledge? What about a relationship with Jesus Christ? How do we show that we understand the power and presence of that relationship in our lives? Is a free response or do we expect something in return?
When Jesus stated he was thirsty, it was physical. He has had a truly horrible day and his body needed nourishment. On the other hand, spiritually, Jesus had the strength he needed as he was drinking the water that springs eternal within all of us. Do we know the difference?
My question for today is, knowing that we live in a land in which we can find water to nourish our body almost anywhere to meet our physical needs, how is our soul doing? Are we thirsty for living water? Are we having a hard day, week, year, life? Could we use something to give us strength to endure? If so, say to God, “I am thirsty” and then drink of the water of life that quenches all thirst.

“Here is your mother”

2008-03-18T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 18, 2008
Tuesday

John 19:25-26

Above Ephesus, on Bulbul Mountain, is the House of the Virgin Mary. It is supposedly the place where Mary, the mother of Jesus, and the Apostle John lived during the last days of her life, and where she was eventually buried. Much of the house is closed off to the public but there is an area, that looks a great deal like a chapel, where folks can walk through and pay homage.
I figured seeing the “house” it would be a “Catholic” pilgrimage—using the stereotype that if it had to do with the Virgin Mary, it had to be Catholic. The other three persons on the tour were Catholic, so I decided I’d go through the motions as I knew it would be an important place for them. I later found out it was also a place of pilgrimage for Muslims because Mary was the mother of one of their prophets and is mentioned many times in the Koran.
The place was packed with tourists as the cruise ships were in town. We followed the line past a nun and into the house. I was immediately moved by the sacredness of the moment. This was holy ground for me! Why? How? I don’t know. What I do know is that God spoke to me in that place, in a way that reminded me how dangerous stereotypes can be. I was also very much aware that God seeks us out even when we aren’t looking for God. As we moved through the house, I felt love, grace, peace, and comfort. Had Mary and John really moved here at some point after the death of Jesus? It didn’t matter. I knew in that moment that I was a child of God and that I was in the presence of my divine parent. It was amazing! Do you have such a relationship with God? Would you like to? I invite you to give it prayerful thought. I’d love to talk with you about it.

“Today you will be with me in paradise”

2008-03-17T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 17, 2008
Monday

Luke 23:39-43

When Jesus is talking with the thief hanging beside him about paradise, I often think of heaven, of God’s kingdom where all are invited to live out eternity. However, on this day, I would invite is to remember the words of Jesus when he says, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near” (Matthew 3:2) and also “strive first for the kingdom of God and his righteousness” (Matthew 6:33). Why? Because these words of Jesus remind us that the kingdom is not just something that we die into but also something we can live in each and every day of our lives, on earth and in heaven! As I reflect over our journey to Turkey, I would say that being able to spend three months with my best friend and love of my life was paradise. Some of the various sites that we saw as well as the foods that we ate, could very well be found in paradise. Seventeen days of blue sky and temperatures that were comfortable could be easily considered paradise. The opportunity to read from the Bible in sacred spots representing communities or events, was paradise.
As we enter Holy Week, and reflect of some of the last words of Jesus, I challenge us to not just look back and remember, or look forward and anticipate, but to also look at the present, seeking, seeing, and living in the paradise that God created, and is creating. For today we are with Jesus in paradise, God’s kingdom on earth!

"Passion Sunday"

2008-03-16T07:57:00.000-04:00

March 16, 2008
Sunday

Today we walk with Christ from when he enters Jerusalem on the back of a donkey as the world’s savior to his death on the cross as a rejected king. We must experience each event to truly understand the power of Easter. Take time to read….
Isaiah 50:4-9a Psalm 31:9-16
Philippians 2:5-11 Matthew 26:14-27:66

“Paul’s well”

2008-03-15T00:02:00.000-04:00

March 14, 2008
Friday

Acts 9:1-18

On our fifth day it Turkey, we traveled to Tarsus, to see the house where Paul is purported to have lived. Today Tarsus is a very busy city. We turned off a main street and found Paul’s place in the midst of a bunch of back streets. But wait, it looked too modern as it was made of wood and had no walls. What was going on? We got out of the van, walked through the gate, got our tickets (everything has a ticket in Turkey!), and moved towards the structure. Our guide had us look down to see Paul’s house. Underneath a clear cover laying flat to the ground, about 10 feet below the ground were the remnants. “This is thought to be the Apostle Paul’s home”.
As I looked around there was a well in working condition. “They call it Paul’s well and some say the water has healing powers, “ continued the guide. “If you want, they will bring up some water for you to have.” What would it be like to baptize someone with water from Paul’s well? That would be cool! But would it be any more special because it came from the site of Paul’s house? I then remembered how Paul was concerned that folks in Corinth were dividing the church. “Were you baptized into the name of Paul?” No. Then I thought of my baptism in the name of God, Christ, and the Spirit and chose to use that moment, as I did at other times on the journey, to remember my baptism and give thanks to God for first loving me so that I could love others. The water, no matter from where it comes, is meaningless unless we understand the glory of baptism, of rejoicing in God’s grace, and celebrating our life as a gift from God. It is our response to God’s amazing love and grace in your life. Do you remember your baptism? Whether you do or not, do you remember why you were baptized? If you’ve not been baptized yet, maybe we could talk about it.

“Will you say “Caesar is Lord?’”

2008-03-14T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 13, 2008
Thursday

While in Izmir, we visited the Church of Polycarp. It is a Catholic church dedicated to honoring this direct pupil of the apostle John who was tortured and killed at the age of 86 because he would not proclaim that “Caesar is Lord” and offer a small pinch of incense to Caesar’s statue. Polycarp said, “Eighty-six years I have served Christ, and He never did me any wrong. How can I blaspheme my King who saved me?” As a result of his unwillingness to denounce his faith in God, Polycarp was burned alive at the stake.
As we walked through the church, I was struck by the ornateness of decorations and color. It was an amazing place. Pictures painted on the walls and ceiling were of the Christian story, including the role Polycarp had as “the father of the Christian Church”. It was very comforting to see the Bible at the back of the church opened to one of my favorite stories, “The Walk to Emmaus”. However, the most unique aspect of the visit was seeing a relic of Polycarp. In the Catholic tradition, relics tie believers to the saints who have gone before them. For Polycarp, the relic, contained in a case, was a part of his skull bone.
As I reflected on Polycarp and his role as a martyr who died rather than live without Christ, I was reminded of our Christian brothers and sisters around the world today who willingly giving up their freedom, and sometimes their lives, to remain faithful to Christ. As we think of how Christ suffered and died for us, are we willing to say that we would be willing suffer and die rather than deny Christ in our lives? Are we willing to die to live for all of eternity with Christ? It’s something to ponder during this season of Lent.

“First Nicene Creed”

2008-03-12T15:04:00.002-04:00

March 12, 2008
Wednesday

Near the end of our journey, we traveled to the city of Nicea, where the seven councils of Nicea were held. First we visited the church in which Councils 3-7 were held. When we asked where the first two councils were held, our guide pointed at the lake. “It’s out there, off the point.” (If you go to the website you’ll see a picture of it!)
The First Nicene Council, some 300 strong, gathered in 325 to discuss the heresy of Arius, (Arianism) which denied the divinity of Christ. In response, the Council created the Nicene Creed. The second council crafted the Nicene Creed that many of us know. Below are the words of the first Creed. By what statement of faith do we live?

“We believe in one God the Father Almighty, Maker of all things visible and invisible; and in one Lord Jesus Christ, the only begotten of the Father, that is, of the substance [ek tes ousias] of the Father, God of God, light of light, true God of true God, begotten not made, of the same substance with the Father [homoousion to patri], through whom all things were made both in heaven and on earth; who for us men and our salvation descended, was incarnate, and was made man, suffered and rose again the third day, ascended into heaven and cometh to judge the living and the dead. And in the Holy Ghost. Those who say: There was a time when He was not, and He was not before He was begotten; and that He was made out of nothing (ex ouk onton); or who maintain that He is of another hypostasis or another substance [than the Father], or that the Son of God is created, or mutable, or subject to change, [them] the Catholic Church anathematizes.”

Today I walked where Paul walked...part 2

2008-03-11T00:01:00.000-04:00

March 11, 2008
Tuesday

Today I walked where Paul walked and I wondered what he felt as his steps fell before mine so many years ago. Was he anxious, nervous, or excited to journey through these lands?

To walk among the people who worshiped so many gods, to offer them the one true God in whom they all could trust. Did he feel great confidence or was he walking scared?

Was he working on what next to say or trusting it would come? Was he looking forward to the synagogue or fighting to get into the theater to share the Word he knew so well that he wanted just to share, to offer people eternal life, salvation, and grace beyond compare.

Today I walked where Paul walked and recognized the call, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with any and with all. In places that I know for sure as well as those away, to continue the journey begun so long ago as God has called me to do. To walk among the merchants, the friendly and the foe, the rich and the poor, the lonely and the lost.

With fear, excitement, nervousness and awe that goes with such a call. To recognize that another will walk where I have walked and not have them wonder if I was true. To share the love of God as Paul did when he walked the path before me... “

“Today I walked where Paul walked…” (An original Poem)

2008-03-10T13:49:00.001-04:00

March 10, 2008
Monday

I’d like to start this week out by sharing a poem that I wrote at the end of our journey through Turkey. Because of it’s length it is continued onto Tuesday as well. I would invite you to consider what it means to walk with Christ in your life in the 21st century.

“Today I walked where Paul walked two thousand years ago to share the Word of God with those he met and I found myself in awe.

As I walked along the cobblestones in places like Ephesus, Sardis, and Philadelphia I wondered what he saw; the shops, the merchants, the lost and lonely, the rich and the poor; those who noticed and ignored him this man from away. As he passed the shops along the way what did they have to offer this man who had so much to offer them? Were they selling figs and olives, skins and fancy cloth, idols made of wood and silver, or spices and medicinal drinks sure to heal the common woe?

I wondered about the sounds of selling and of yelling, of moving and of flow. As I looked at the ruins of sand and rock it is so very hard to tell. I found myself listening to the voices of the many silenced so many years ago.

“Pray for the church and it’s ministries”

2008-03-09T00:01:00.000-05:00

March 9, 2008
Sunday

As on every Sunday, I invite you to attend worship and to share in the celebration of God’s grace and love given to you through God’s Son, Jesus the Christ. If your church is following the Revised Common Lectionary, the readings for this day are:
Ezekiel 37:1-4 Psalm 130
Romans 8:6-11 John 11:1-45

“To the angel of the church of Ephesus”

2008-03-08T00:01:00.000-05:00

March 8, 2008
Saturday

Revelation 2:1-7

What does God mean that the church of Ephesus has forgotten their first love? Their actions certainly seem to indicate that they are faithful to God—they, don’t tolerate wicked men or phony preachers. But God is concerned.
How many times in our faith journey have we been so busy being a Christian that we forgot about why we are doing it? By that I mean, how many times do we prepare a casserole for the supper, purchase cookies from the kids, attend every meeting we should, and get frustrated at the energy we are expending? These should not be obligations but rather ways to show our love for God through Christ. It’s our way to say “thank you for loving me in such an awesome way”. I tend to realize I’ve forgotten about living out my faith in Christ when I begin to feel all dried up inside. It’s then that I go to the well and drink again of the water that quenches all thirst. Have you forgotten your first love? If so, God invites you to come, rest, and sit in God’s presence and remember with thanksgiving your love for Christ in response to God’s love for you.

The Aspendos Theater

2008-03-07T20:46:00.003-05:00

March 7, 2008
Friday

The Aspendos Theater

This is not the theater in Ephesus but the picture gives a better perspective of how all of the theaters were created. Those little specks in the middle of the picture are Lisa and the other members of our tour. It’s amazing how easy it was to hear their voices!
What I find so amazing is that we are even smaller specks in this whole world and yet God hears our every prayer and every thought. Do we believe that? Do we think we need special words or actions in order for God to really hear us? Do we think we need to be in a special place for God to understand what we are saying?
Might I invite you to talk with God, in your everyday voice, using the words you always use, and see just how clearly God can hear you. And, if you will sit in listen, God will speak to you as well. Thanks be to God.

“A Prayer for you”

2008-03-06T00:02:00.000-05:00

March 6, 2008
Thursday

Ephesians 3:14-22

When I pray I often sit in a chair and lean back. On Sunday mornings, when I am preparing for worship, I either sit in the front pew or kneel at one of the prayer rails (they have cushions from the old church) facing the altar. I notice that some folks come forth after receiving communion and they kneel on the wooden steps up front while others stand. Where do you pray? In the pew? On your knees? Beside your bed? Does it matter?
When we entered into the mosques throughout Turkey we found no pews, no kneeling rails and no cushions. When the people come in to do their daily prayers they kneel, facing towards Mecca, and pray. Before entering the mosque we were required to take off our shoes and as I walked around inside I noticed that there seemed to be a little (and I mean a little) cushion underneath the carpet as to walk on it brought comfort to my feet. I guess you could say it brought comfort to my sole!
You see, I don’t think it’s as important where we pray as the fact that we do pray. For some folks, they can kneel on carpet for long periods of time in prayer while for some laying prostrate on the floor is where they feel closest to God. In these words from Ephesians, Paul talks of kneeling before God but what is most important is what he prays about. This is a prayer of hope, strength, thanksgiving, empowerment, and amazement for the people of Ephesus. Do we pray similar words for others? If we are disciples of Jesus, we should! Today let’s pray Paul’s words for our church with the same expectation that Paul had for the church in Ephesus.

“I can hear you!”

2008-03-05T08:52:00.003-05:00

March 5, 2008
Wednesday

The theater architects of 2000 and longer ago were fantastic! They could create a space where people, without the benefit of microphones could be heard from the first level of seats all the way to what we now know as the nosebleed section! During our trip we visited 5 or 6 of these theaters. Each time we’d enter on the floor level I would climb as high as I could and listen to Lisa talk from the stage. She would talk in her normal voice and I’d hear what she was saying. No need to raise her voice just to be heard, just speak and I was listening. She could also hear me as I spoke to her from at least 100 to 200 feet away. Amazing!
Think about it. Why, in a much smaller space like our sanctuary do we need a microphone to be heard and boards to deaden the sound? Amazing! As I stood looking down at those gathered on the floor of the theater it helped me to understand a few things from the scriptures. For instance, it gave me a better perspective of how Jesus might be able to stand on a boat and preach to the crowds with the hills behind them. I was not as surprised about the 5,000 men plus others who followed Jesus with the expectation that they’d hear him as he spoke.
These folks didn’t worry so much about creating the perfect place from which to speak using the right sound enhancing and dampening equipment (I know that sounds contradictory) but rather they used what God had created as an example as to how they could serve humanity. Amazing!
What examples from God’s creation might we use to serve humanity today rather than trying to create something new by ourselves??

“Hearing voices”

2008-03-04T08:50:00.001-05:00

March 4, 2008
Tuesday

Acts 19:23-41

If we read the whole chapter, we find out that Paul has been in Ephesus for over 2.5 years before Demetrious decides to take action. After all, the making of silver shrines and images was big business for Demetrious and his friends. Ephesus was known for its great temple to Artemis (one of the seven wonders of the world at that time) and if Paul’s words discredited the temple, it would be their worship and economic ruin. So Demetrious gets his friends riled up and then the whole town, which was a huge coastal city at the time. They move to the theater, where thousands upon thousands of folks gather for a rally against the Christians. Things did not look good at all and Paul wanted to go into the theater and try to talk with the unruly crowd. His followers talked him out of it, fearing for his life.
Standing outside the Ephesus theater, reading this text aloud, the tourists inside were talking and making noise. What was it like 2,000 years ago, with up to 25,000 people screaming, “Great is Artemis of the Ephesians!”. How scary and intimidating it must have been. Yet Paul still wanted to go inside. I guess that was part of Paul’s directness and unwillingness to step away from a challenge to share the good news of Jesus Christ. But this time, I think his followers were right. As often as we want to jump in and defend Christ or argue for Christ’ sake, sometimes it’s best to trust God to take care of things. God did and it allowed Paul to continue on in his ministry. Sometimes we should enter the fray but other times we must stand down. In all cases we should listen for God’s voice directly or through others.

“What should we wear?”

2008-03-03T08:49:00.000-05:00

March 3, 2008
Monday

Ephesians 6: 10-18

According to the information we received from our tour company, the weather was supposed to be in the fifties and sixties while we were in Turkey. Even though it was only mid-September, I had visions of a beautiful Maine fall day. We packed accordingly with long pants, jackets, and a couple of summer things, just in case. However, when we arrived in Turkey, we experienced a wonderful Maine summer and we were ecstatic. The only problem we had was what we had to wear. Having packed only a few summer things and with limited, and expensive, access to laundry facilities, we spent a portion of each evening washing clothes for the next day. The good thing is that the others on the trip had to do the same!
By the time we arrived in Ephesus, we were used to seeing the same clothes on everyone and tired of carrying a suitcase full of useless clothes.
In today’s reading from Ephesians, Paul challenges us to be strong in the Lord and to put on the full armor of God. This armor is not heavy, though at times challenging to wear. It does not need to be cleaned each night though we should keep up with it. It does not keep the sun out but does protect us from the heat of evil. It doesn’t require checking with the weather person or fashion expert but rather fits all situations. It gives us strength and the ability to withstand the storms of life. It is a gift from God. Amen!

“Celebrate”

2008-03-02T00:01:00.000-05:00

March 2, 2008
Sunday

As on every Sunday, I invite you to attend worship and to share in the celebration of God’s grace and love given to you through God’s Son, Jesus the Christ. If your church is following the Revised Common Lectionary, the readings for this day are:
1 Samuel 16:1-13 Psalm 23
Ephesians 5:8-14 John 9:1-41

“To the angel of the church of Laodicea”

2008-03-01T08:42:00.002-05:00

March 1, 2008
Saturday

Revelation 3:14-22

“Make up your mind!” Throughout my life I’ve been accused of wanting to know all of my options before making a choice, even to the point of being indecisive. I say it’s because I want to make sure I have all the facts so I can make the right decision. On the other hand, I once had a supervisor who said it’s better to do something than nothing because at least you are taking action. God wants the folks of Laodicea to make a decision about their faith commitment. Be hot or cold! They were a very rich community but God says they were poor in Spirit. “Make up your mind!”
Where do we stand with God? Do we do the things that look good, to cover up the many things we should or shouldn’t be doing? God wants these folks to get off the fence and make a decision and God challenges us today to do the same thing. We can’t live half-in and half-out of the Kingdom! We must make up our mind. Christ is knocking. Do we answer and enter? I did and I thank God everyday!!! What about you? Make up your mind.

I'm going to be away for a few days...

2008-02-29T00:03:00.000-05:00

So I've attached the devotional readings up through February 29th. I've predated them so that you'll know which ones go where. Just go back to the last time you read it and then read up (but still left to right!).

“Nuff said!!”

2008-02-29T00:01:00.001-05:00

February 29, 2008
Friday

We had been in Turkey for almost two weeks, traveling around the country side, when we spotted a Starbucks Coffee shop. It was the first one we had seen. Lisa was getting tired of Turkish coffee and I hadn’t had hot chocolate since leaving the states. “Stop” shouted Lisa. The driver pulled in to the rest area and while others went to get cold drinks in the 80 plus degree weather, Lisa and I headed over for our coffee and hot chocolate! It was crazy but it was something familiar, something comforting, something of home.
How many of us react that way when we’ve not been to church for few weeks or haven’t had a chance to read the Bible for a while? Lent is a time for us to get familiar with the scriptures, to find the comfort that they bring, to recognize that we do have a home within them.
How are our commitments during Lent going? Are we experiencing the joy that God intends for us when we spend time with the Lord? There is something truly sweet when we are able to sip, or gulp, of the goodness that flows so freely from God to each of us. How about if we “stop” what we are doing today, on the road of life, and get a good taste of what God is serving! It’s hot stuff for certain!!! Nuff said!!!

“Is this the same place?”

2008-02-28T00:01:00.002-05:00

February 28, 2008
Thursday

Acts 14

As our journey through Turkey progressed, and we stopped at some of the places that are mentioned in today’s reading about Paul’s first missionary journey with Barnabas, we were amazed at the different landscapes we seeing. We traveled through deserts, mountains, lakes, along coastlines, past cities, villages, and empty spaces. Each place was unique, was different though all had common things that they shared. There was family, community, land, the air that they breathed, and the sun that shone down on them. I would imagine that they even had similar conversations around the supper table or at the local market, though the names would have reflected local folks for that region. As I think back, maybe that was part of the learning for us, that we needed to see other parts of the world so that we could see their uniqueness but also understand our commonalities.
How often do we think that everyone is like us? When we worship together and I mention “the body of Christ” does the image include people from Cappadocia, Lystra, Perge? Does it include folks from China, Africa, Mexico, or even Canada?
Traveling, reading, listening, and sharing are all ways in which we can come to understand not only the many different landscapes of the Kingdom of God but also the many ways in which we are united, though far apart.
Today’s challenge is to expand our understanding of God’s Kingdom and to see how we are all loved by God. For if we do, there is hope for peace on earth.

“Dinner and Dancing”

2008-02-27T00:01:00.001-05:00

February 27, 2008
Wednesday

Luke 22:7-19

The second night that we were in Turkey, as we stayed in Cappadocia, we had the chance to participate in a Turkish meal. We were told that we would eat authentic Turkish food and after the meal we would watch as individuals performed dances specific to the many regions of Turkey. As we moved through the night the dances told stories of weddings and woe, of joy and sadness. Some of the dancers truly enjoyed living out their heritage.
When Jesus gathered with the disciples in the upper room, they did so to remember the Passover Feast, the time when the plague of the first born —the final plague on Egypt, did not take the first born in the homes of God’s people who had placed blood of sacrificed lambs on their door frames. On that night with the disciples, Jesus took bread and fruit of the vine and created a meal of remembrance—the one we know as Communion, and told them to do it in remembrance of him.
We have many opportunities to do things in remembrance of our Christian heritage. At the Belfast UMC, we can take Communion every Sunday. We also teach our young and young-at-heart the stories of the Bible that they might remember and give thanks. What other ways do we remember and celebrate our heritage, our history? Do we dance and rejoice like Deborah when God grants victory? Do we use water to remember our baptism or ashes to remember from where we have come? More importantly, do we enjoy doing such things? It’s who we are.
Anyone care to dance?

“Desert!”

2008-02-26T14:15:00.002-05:00

February 26, 2008
Tuesday

Psalm 42

It was absolutely amazing to me As we drove from Adana to Konya, two beautiful places, we traveled through an extremely barren and desolate area. The ground was dusty, the grass was thin, and the trees were sparse. Yet people lived there. It was certainly not a place that I would want to live. And then I began to think about my spiritual journey. How many times had I taken up residency in a place that was desolate and barren with very little life or hope? How many times had I decided that I could live in that place though I knew that God was waiting beyond to quench my thirst with water that springs eternal within us?
As a pastor, I wish I could say that I always live in the lush paradise of my faith where fruit, water, and beautiful flowers grow, but that wouldn’t be the truth. Do you know what I am talking about?
There were times in my life when I distanced myself from God for a variety of reasons. It may have been wanting my way, that dealing with God might be too much work, that life just seemed hopeless...so why not live in my misery? But each time God would find me and bring me to the water where I would drink and be restored.
Where are you on your spiritual journey? Stopped in the desert? Need a ride? Our driver never stopped until we were on the other side of the desert. Might I suggest turning the keys of your life over to God who wants to be your pilot (not co-pilot!) and ask God to take you on to the a land of abundance and plenty. I will never forget that barren area and I pray the next time I am in the desert of my spiritual journey I’ll let God drive!

“Salty Salt”

2008-02-25T00:01:00.001-05:00

February 25, 2008
Monday

Matthew 5:13-16

Our guide said we’d be going past a salt lake. I’d never seen one up close but assumed it was filled with saltwater. Wrong! As we began to go around the lake I wondered if I was seeing a mirage. It looked like water but at the same time it didn’t. I asked and was told that the salt lake was just that, salt! We asked if we could stop and though we could tell the guide was nervous about keeping the schedule, he gave us ten minutes. We parked at a little tourist-type area and then walked out onto the lake. It was amazing. We were walking on salt, as all of the water had evaporated. We took pictures standing “in” the lake and then headed back to the shore. As we did so I reached down and picked up a granule of salt. What would it taste like, if anything? One moment in my mouth and I knew, this was salty salt! It wasn’t finally granulated like we use at the table, but it was salty salt.
What amazed me was that despite the intensity of weather and the length of time it had been there, it still had the salty flavor. It still had value and use. Do we still have our flavor for life, family, living, God? When we are added into the mix does everything take on a God flavor or are things tasteless? God does not abandon us in such times but rather restores, redeems, and revives us so that we can again add God’s divine flavor to every part of our day and our life. Amen!

“Praise God”

2008-02-24T00:01:00.000-05:00

February 24, 2008
Sunday

As on every Sunday, I invite you to attend worship and to share in the celebration of God’s grace and love given to you through God’s Son, Jesus the Christ. If your church is following the Revised Common Lectionary, the readings for this day are:
Exodus 17:1-7 Psalm 95
Romans 5:1-11 John 4:5-42

Interesting facts about Easter

2008-02-23T10:35:00.000-05:00

Do you realize how early Easter is this year? As you may know, Easter is always the 1st Sunday after the 1st full moon after the Spring Equinox (which is March 20). This dating of Easter is based on the lunar calendar that Hebrew people used to identify passover, which is why it moves around on our Roman calendar.

A couple of things you might be interested in. Based on the above, Easter can actually be one day earlier (March 22) but that is pretty rare. This year is the earliest Easter any of us will ever see the rest of our lives! And only the most elderly of our population have ever seen it this early (95 years old or above!). And none of us have ever, or will ever, see it a day earlier! Here's the facts:

1) The next time Easter will be this early (March 23) will be the year 2228 (220 years from now). The last time it was this early was 1913 (so if you're 95 or older, you are the only ones that were around for that!).

2) The next time it will be a day earlier, March 22, will be in the year 2285 (277 years from now). The last time it was on March 22 was 1818.

So, no one alive today has or will ever see it any earlier than this year!

“To the Angel of the church in Smyrna”

2008-02-23T09:20:00.002-05:00

February 23, 2008
Saturday

Revelation 2:8-11

Smyrna is now known as Izmir. It is the third largest city in Turkey, located on the shore of the Aegean Sea, and it’s port is second only to Istanbul. We saw a hustling place. The water views were beautiful. Our only real stop was at the Church of Polycarp of which I’ll speak to later.
In the words of God for this community we hear a call to faith. Though they believe in God there will be struggle, there will be testing, there will be persecution. Yet God, through John, calls them to be faithful. Why? Because there is a greater glory, a greater reason for living, than that which we see around us. The crown of life is like a wreath awarded to the winner of a race and we remember the words from Hebrews 12 “Let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us.” Whatever suffering or testing we are facing today is but for a short time. God says, “hold on”, “keep the faith” and we will receive eternal life as the final victory. AMEN!!!

"Genuine Fake Watches"

2008-02-22T19:30:00.000-05:00

February 22, 2008
Friday

First John 2

In the midst of one of the shop areas at an attraction we saw this sign, “Genuine Fake Watches”!! They weren’t trying to fool anyone or be dishonest, they were telling it like it is...if you buy from us you’ll look great but it’ll be a fake!
It got me to thinking about how honest we are in our lives with others, and most importantly, with God. Sure, God knows and sees everything, but that doesn’t seem to stop us from trying to “fake” God out or hoping that God isn’t paying attention at certain times in our lives. As I further thought about the sign I realized how freeing it is. People know what they are getting at that shop!!
What would happen if we were as honest in our lives? What would happen if we were able to label the different areas of our life. “I’m not good at math”, “I don’t like boring sermons”, “I sneak pizza when no one is looking”, “I don’t really pray everyday”, “I don’t know the names of the books of the Bible”. Sure, society has taught us that to admit things can cause us to look weak, but I would offer that in reality, it will give us freedom because we can be who we are and that will be a great foundation from which to work, to strengthen our lives. What signs can we make to let people know who we really are and thereby enjoy the freedom God gives us in that truth?

“Spices of the Spirit”

2008-02-21T17:11:00.002-05:00

February 21, 2008
Thursday

Galatians 5:16-25

There is a place in Istanbul called the Spice Market. Inside this area are many merchants who are selling a wide variety of spices. It was in the Spice Market that I purchased the frankincense and myrrh that we talked about on Epiphany Sunday, In many shops one can find white pepper, saffron, red pepper, curry, paprika, and so many more. Some shops sell perfumes and ointments and depending on which part of the market you are in, the smells can be quite different. Each of these spices, when added correctly, can really bring out the flavor of the meal. I don’t know how it all works but I certainly love tasting the great results!
Today’s reading reminds us of the spices that God adds to our lives when we live in the Spirit. I know...they are called the Fruit of the Spirit but I think of them as adding a great flavor to our lives. How much better is our life when we experience patience, kindness, joy, and peace? If we live in the way of the Spirit, if we allow the Spirit to live and work within us, just as the right spice brings out the full taste of the meal, so too do the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. They bring out the fullness of a life lived in faith. Why settle for the bland when we can spice up our lives with self-control, love, faithfulness, and gentleness? I agree they may not sound as exciting as crushed red pepper, but I will testify that they are all of that and more! Let us spice up our life by living in the Spirit and experiencing the fruit of such faith.

“Creating a Rug”

2008-02-20T17:10:00.001-05:00

February 20, 2008
Wednesday

Genesis 1:1-2:2

I used to think a “Persian” rug was just a carpet from Turkey that cost lots of money. One day we journeyed to a co-op where women from all over Turkey made rugs to be sold. These women represented just a few of the many who chose to work at home or other facilities in order to make a living for their families. We found out that each rug was hand-woven. That means that it takes upwards of 9-10 months to make one rug and because of the strain on their eyes and body, working more than four hours a day is very difficult. Imagine, sitting down and working on something for that long. Imagine running one thread through many in order to create a very specific design. In a world that requires immediate satisfaction, it’s a difficult thing to do. Besides the detailed designs, these rugs are built to last. They laid out a number of completed rugs and invited us to take off our shoes and walk on them. They looked like they should be only on the wall, for people to admire. Yet these rugs are found on the floors of homes throughout Turkey. They are passed down through generations! Grandmother to grandson! Amazing!
God created a masterpiece in six days upon which we walk. It is built to last and it is our responsibility to make sure we treat it in such a way that we can pass it on. It’s not just to be admired, but also enjoyed. As we walk through the day, may we admire the detail and beauty of what God has created, and give thanks!

“Wall of Prayer”

2008-02-19T08:36:00.000-05:00

February 19, 2008
Tuesday

Matthew 6:5-11

We visited the House of the Virgin Mary above on a mountain that overlooked the remains of Ephesus. It is purported to be the place where the beloved disciple John and Mary moved at a point after Jesus had been crucified. It is a place of pilgrimage for many of the Catholic faith. On this site is a wall of prayers. It’s a place where people write their prayers and then stick them to a covering over the face of the wall. A variety of sizes and types of paper are used, including an “Orbit Gum” box, to leave these petitions. They also are written in many different languages. Honoring the privacy of these written prayers, I did not look to see if they were to God, Jesus, or Mary. What amazed me though was the length and depth of this wall of prayer which had to measure 30 feet long and 5 feet high . When we share our joys and concerns in Sunday morning worship, we hear many voices lifting up names and events but there were thousands of prayers on this wall.
I recognize that prayer is a conversation with God but part of prayer is lifting up petitions to God—for others, for guidance, for strength, for hope, for healing, you know what I mean. As I looked at the wall I was reminded of how God hears each of our prayers and answers them as though we are the only ones who matter. It then got me to thinking of just how full or empty our individual prayer walls are. Do we only speak with the right words of whatever we can find? What do we place before God? Do we leave all of our requests there or just some? God wants to see them all!
Let us pray...

“Mold me, Make Me”

2008-02-18T08:30:00.002-05:00

February 18, 2008
Monday

Jeremiah 18:1-10

One of the places we went during our Turkey tour was the Galip Pottery Shop. Mr. Galip is considered a treasure in Turkey and is known in Europe for his beautiful work. The visit included watching one of his potters take a glob of clay and turn it into a beautiful pot, including the top, all within 10-15 minutes. It was amazing to see how he took what looked like nothing and made it into something of great beauty.
As we continue our journey through Lent, let us remember how God took us, with all of our imperfections, with all of our feelings of low self-worth, and created us into something of beauty. We are children of God! Not perfect, but forgiven and reconciled to God through Jesus Christ.
The man who created the pot while we were there obviously had done it many times before and yet he still took great joy in showing us what he could do. I also imagine that more than once something didn’t work out and he simply took the clay and re-formed it into a breathtaking creation.
God takes great joy in creating each of us. God also understands that sometimes we mess up what God has created and is therefore more than ready, if we will but ask, to remold us, to remake us, into a breathtaking creation. The pot the man made was usable, and so should we be, to help pour out God’s grace upon the world!

Rejoice!!!!!

2008-02-17T08:26:00.000-05:00

February 17, 2008
Sunday

As on every Sunday, I invite you to attend worship and to share in the celebration of God’s grace and love given to you through God’s Son, Jesus the Christ. If your church is following the Revised Common Lectionary, the readings for this day are:
Genesis 12:1-4a Psalm 32
Romans 4:1-5, 13-17 John 3:1-17

To the angel of the church in Sardis

2008-02-16T08:17:00.000-05:00

February 16, 2008
Saturday

“Revelation 3:1-6”

It is always interesting to walk among stones and buildings from so long ago. That which was once alive is now long dead. Lisa and I stood before the remains of the large gymnasium, as well as the many shops along one of the streets. We saw far into the distance of where the city walls once climbed the hills. The city was dead, long buried.
In the letter to Sardis, though the people are alive and the shops are bustling, God says that they are dead. Imagine, breathing and moving about like every other person and yet being called dead! How weird is that?
But God is not talking about that which is seen. It’s not about the beating of the heart, but rather of the Spirit. As we consider our lives, are we living or dead? Is our relationship with God vibrant or on life support? God invites us to open the ears of our heart and listen to what the Spirit is saying before we miss the message. Do we want to live? I do. Shall we live together in Christ?

Tight spaces

2008-02-15T07:52:00.000-05:00

Friday
February 15, 2008

The end of a 25 foot tunnel in the underground city of Ozkonak…

What a tight fit it was! As I moved through the tunnel, bent over, looking down, praying my head didn’t go bump in the night! More than once my shoulders hit the side of the tunnel. I won’t be afraid of an MRI again! This little jaunt reminded me of the words of Christ where he says, “It is easier for a to go through the eye of a needle that for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 19:24)
The point of the scripture is not that money is bad but rather that if we put all of our trust in the things of this world, we will not be saved.

The question for today is simple…
What riches of this world do we so strongly believe in that they separate us from our relationship with Christ? Our home? Our money? Our retirement plan? Our car? (Hint: If we are unwilling to offer it to God in case God needs it, that’s it!)

You are not alone

2008-02-14T07:51:00.000-05:00

February 14, 2008
Thursday

Romans 16

Last week I mentioned that there were only five people on our tour and there was concern as to whether or not we would mix well. As God would have it, each of us brought different gifts to the trip and we soon realized that things were going to be fine. The other three had traveled to many different areas of the world on tours, bringing experience as well as answers to our questions. We all were of the Christian faith so when we arrived at a location I could read the pertinent scripture in the comfort of knowing I was not alone. Lisa brought her openness to adventure as well as her patience along the way. The driver and the guide were everything we could have hoped for.
As we read through Romans 16, we find that it’s a list of those for whom Paul has met along the way and to whom he sends his regards. Though we think of Paul as an individual moving through that part of the world sharing the Gospel, the reality is that he met many folks along the way who greeted him, fed him, nourished him, provided him shelter, shared their knowledge of the area...you get the idea. These are people with whom God surrounded Paul in his journey.
Who has God placed around you? Who are those people who listen, assist, love, nourish, and guide you? As we think about our individual Lenten journeys, the reality is that God has surrounded us with people like Herodion, Mary, Tryphena, and others. In our prayers today, may we give thanks for each one of them. Maybe we could even send them a note, as did Paul, and great them.

Ken says hello!

2008-02-12T07:59:00.001-05:00

One of the amazing stories of our adventure in New Orleans is the support that we received from the Drinkwater elementary school in Northport. One of our team members, Ken Murphy, is a member of the staff at the school. When he mentioned that he was going on the trip, the staff and students wanted to get involved. They started a fundraising campaign called "changing someone's life".

Ken was excited to share the journey with those with whom he spent his days. As the time rolled on, this little project of bringing in change to be used to change someone's life began to take on a life of its own. When all was said and done, the school raised $550!!!! Amazing.

So many times we talk about teaching our children how to contribute to the world and through their acts of love and kindness, it is the children of Drinkwater who are showing the adults how not just to lead but also to take action!!!

The whole New Orleans team is very proud of thier leadership on this project!!!

Above is a picture of Ken standing outside of a school that is located in the lower Ninth ward. All of the rumble has been cleaned up but as you can see, there is very little else leftover. Even if the school opened, there are very few children, in what used to be a very busy and lively neoghborhood, would be around to attend. Please keep those children who are now living elsewhere in your prayers.

More to come later!

“History is important”

2008-02-11T07:44:00.000-05:00

February 11, 2008
Monday

Hebrews 11

One of the first places we visited when we began our tour of Turkey was the Museum of Anatolian Civilizations. Within its walls were items that went back thousands of years. There were the oldest examples of writing found in the area, a mirror made not with reflective glass but polished metal in which it was hard to see clearly, and lots of jewelry, jugs, and coins of the region. Each one tells a story, and opens a window into the past.
Today’s reading from Hebrews takes us on a journey of all of those who have gone before us. It is a history lesson of those called by God and their reaction. If we choose to take those names back into the Old Testament, we can learn even more about the history of our faith.
Did you know that you are making history? That at some point, someone is going to look back over your life and see what you’ve done? How exciting! How scary! Unless of course we live our lives as those described in today’s reading, “By faith”.
What if with each decision or action we take today we put the words “by faith” in front of it? Would it change how we do things? Would it affirm our decisions? Does it bring new meaning to them? Do you like the window it opens to your faith? In this season of Lent these are questions not to be considered but rather acted upon.

A Prayer...

2008-02-10T07:43:00.000-05:00

February 10, 2008
Sunday

Precious Lord, as we walk through this season of Lent, sometimes it seems so easy, but other times the challenge appears to be too much. We want to grow closer to you, we want to grow stronger in our faith, we want to study more, to spend more time in prayer, to help those in need, to be a living example of your presence in the world today, but we can’t always do so. We’ve got really good excuses, family, friends, work, church...we know you’ve heard them all.
Help us to look at only one day at a time, to understand that you provide everything we need, and that it’s not so much what we want to do but rather what you would do through us. Help us to find the freedom that comes in loving you. Help us to find the joy that comes with living in your abundance. Help us to find the healing that comes in the restoring power of your grace.
We pray on this day for ourselves, for those whom we know, and for those whom we’ve yet to meet. In the week to come, help us to be aware of the beauty of our Lenten journey, of places where we should stop and admire and the places through which we should keep traveling.
In thanksgiving for all that you give to us, especially your love through Jesus the Christ, we praise your name. You are our awesome God!
AMEN!

“To the angel of the church in Philadelphia”

2008-02-09T07:41:00.001-05:00

February 9, 2008
Saturday

Revelation 3:7-13

The first time that we approached one of the seven cities to which God spoke through God’s Revelation to John, I was amazed. Amid all of the activity of a 21st century town was a little area, it looked more like a little park or someone’s back yard, that was fenced off. Here were the remnants of the city of which God proclaimed “you have little strength, yet you have kept my word and not denied my name.”
Though I was on my renewal leave, I offered to read the words that God had given to this town through John. As we stood and listened to the words, the world continued on. It was amazing to be standing on that holy ground. For a while, the world did indeed seem to stop as we focused on Philadelphia, and more importantly God’s Word.
The same is true where we live, if we allow God to do so. Amongst all of the hustle and bustle of our lives—of soccer games to watch, practices to drive to, work to finish, meetings to attend, television shows to watch, if we will stand, or sit, quietly and listen to God’s word, we can find the peace, the quiet, the focus, and the sacred. It has nothing to do with location but rather reception.
On this day, I invite us to take a few moments to listen to the Word of God. To stand or sit on holy ground—that place where God meets us, and to hear God’s words of encouragement and support. Did you know that God loves you? God does!!! How awesome is that!

Walking where Paul would have walked...

2008-02-08T21:56:00.000-05:00

February 8, 2008
Friday

The first road we saw (Lystra) where Paul would have walked….

Rather than reading a specified text today, I want to invite you to consider the spiritual road you are on. I invite you to write (very small as there is limited space) the answers to these questions...
Who are the folks who have walked before you on your road?

How have they impacted your faith walk?

Who will walk on your road after you and what have you done to help them on their journey?

We're headed for New Orleans!

2008-02-07T22:05:00.000-05:00

On Friday there are five of us headed to New Orleans to work on homes damaged by Hurricane Katrina. Imagine, it's been 30 months and folks still aren't back in their houses! Some homes look just as they did after the storm first hit. We'll be staying at the former parsonage of the Felicity UMC in the Garden District. We are joining 17 members of the Bath UMC and Brunswick UMC. The folks traveling with me are Lisa Abbott, Tim Dutch, Ken Murphy, and Rita Murphy. I'll be sharing, in addition to my daily devotional, some of what is happening on our journey. Wait until I introduce you to some of our greatest supporters! They are leaders in their community and our nation and they aren't even out of elementary school yet!! How awesome is that. They are living examples of how we should reach out to others...but if I share more now, there won't be a story to tell. They know who they are and will be following us through this blog. You are the best!!!! Talk with you later...

We fly out of Portland at 3:30 on Delta. Pray for a safe journey and calm nerves for some who are traveling...

“3,000 miles????”

2008-02-07T10:38:00.000-05:00

February 7, 2008
Thursday

Read Romans 12

“How many miles before we’re done?” I asked. “About 3,000 over the next 12 days” was the answer. That meant many hours of traveling in our van. Some days we’d drive for at least six hours. It was long. However, along the way we’d see something amazing—a mountain range, a tree standing alone in a field, a family sitting outside their simple home. We’d walk on the very road where Paul and others would have walked. At the beginning, the journey seemed almost overwhelming. By the time we arrived in Istanbul, I wished we could have seen more.
This season of Lent is a long one. Today is may seem that Easter is a long, long way off. However, the object of Lent is not the destination, but rather the road to get there. If we have made commitments to fast, to give up something, to begin a spiritual discipline, let us not get caught up in the view that says “How much longer” but rather may we be on the look out for amazing things that we’ll see and experience along the way.
In reference to today’s reading, for most of us, we won’t suddenly be transformed by the renewing of our mind but rather it will be a deliberate and possibly slow process. However, once we get to that point, I believe we’ll want to continue on. With Christ, the tour doesn’t end in one spot but rather we can go as far as God leads us, and we will follow.
Are we ready for the journey? Can we see the beauty along our path? It’s time to look because we’ll get there soon enough!

Words of Wisdom

2008-02-06T16:53:00.000-05:00

A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in a setting of silver. Like a gold ring or an ornament of gold is a wise rebuke to a listening ear. Like the cold of snow in the time of harvest are faithful messengers to those who send them; they refresh the spirit of their masters.
-Proverbs 25:11-13 (NRSV)

Dusty old shoe

2008-02-06T09:58:00.000-05:00

I received this in the mail and having just finished studying the spiritual discipline of hospitality (which is far more than just saying hello - it is creating a space where all are welcome and can be accepted as themselves) I wanted to put this up today. How many times in our churches do we think we are friendly when in reality we are only kind to those whom we know or fit a certain mold? How many times have we only thought of what we offer to someone else rather than what they offer to us? More importantly, what God gives to us through them!

I showered and shaved.............. I adjusted my tie.

I got there and sat.............. In a pew just in time.

Bowing my head in prayer......... As I closed my eyes.

I saw the shoe of the man next to me..... Touching my own. I sighed.

With plenty of room on either side...... I thought,

'Why must our soles touch?'

It bothered me, his shoe touching mine... But it didn't bother him much.

A prayer began: 'Our Father'............. I thought, 'This man with the shoes.. has no pride.

They're dusty, worn, and scratched. Even worse, there are holes on the side!'

'Thank You for blessings,' the prayer went on.

The shoe man said............... a quiet 'Amen.'

I tried to focus on the prayer....... But my thoughts were on his shoes again

Aren't we supposed to look our best.. When walking through that door?

'Well, this certainly isn't it,' I thought, Glancing toward the floor.

Then the prayer was ended............ And the songs of praise began.

The shoe man was certainly loud...... Sounding proud as he sang.

His voice lifted the rafters......... His hands were raised high.

The Lord could surely hear.. The shoe man's voice from the sky.

It was time for the offering......... And what I threw in was steep.

I watched as the shoe man reached.... Into his pockets so deep.

I saw what was pulled out............ What the shoe man put in.

Then I heard a soft 'clink' . as when silver hits tin.

The sermon really bored me......... To tears, and that's no lie

It was the same for the shoe man..... For tears fell from his eyes.

At the end of the service........ As is the custom here

We must greet new visitors.. And show them all good cheer.

But I felt moved somehow............ And wanted to meet the shoe man

So after the closing prayer.......... I reached over and shook his hand.

He was old and his skin was dark..... And his hair was truly a mess

But I thanked him for coming........ For being our guest.

He said, 'My names' Charlie.......... I'm glad to meet you, my friend.'

There were tears in his eyes......... But he had a large, wide grin

'Let me explain,' he said........... Wiping tears from his eyes.

'I've been coming here for months.... And you're the first to say 'Hi.''

'I know that my appearance.........'Is not like all the rest

'But I really do try.................'To always look my best.'

'I always clean and polish my shoes..'Before my very long walk.

'But by the time I get here.........'They're dirty and dusty, like chalk.'

My heart filled with pain............ and I swallowed to hide my tears

As he continued to apologize......... For daring to sit so near.

He said, 'When I get here...........'I know I must look a sight.

'But I thought if I could touch you..'Then maybe our souls might unite.'

I was silent for a moment............ Knowing whatever was said

Would pale in comparison... I spoke from my heart, not my head.

'Oh, you've touched me,' I said......'And taught me, in part;

'That the best of anyone............'Is what is found in his heart.'

The rest, I thought,................. This shoe man will never know.

Like just how thankful I really am... That his dirty old shoe touched my soul.

"The Beginning of the Journey"

2008-02-06T06:00:00.000-05:00

February 6, 2008
Ash Wednesday
Read Acts 2:1-12

We boarded the plane in Portland, ME and headed for a part of the world we had never seen. Based on what we thought we knew, we would be joining a large group and together we would explore the country of Turkey. I figured we’d meet people from all over the United States who had the one common goal of following in Paul’s footsteps.

When we finally arrived, tired and grungy, we were met by our guide who informed us that there would only be five people on the entire tour! “What does this mean?” I asked. What if we don’t get along with someone? The whole trip could be wrecked!

As we begin our journey through the Lenten season, we may be arriving exhausted, hungry, or grungy. We may think we know what the season will reveal to us and we may even think we know all the folks with whom we will journey. However, there may be other plans in store for us.

Lisa and I learned that we needed to be open to possibilities. Maybe having only five folks would be a good thing. Maybe God had a plan for the five of us. God had brought us to this point and so we needed to trust that God would take care of us.

As we go forth on our spiritual journey, may we be open to possibilities. May we be willing to journey with whomever God places around us. It may not be whom we expect but it may be the perfect person or persons for us today.

We may not know what it all means but I assure you, God does!

A Lenten Devotional based on our journey to Turkey

2008-02-05T15:20:00.000-05:00

Good Morning!
As part of the Lilly Foundation Renewal Leave Grant, I agreed, as part of a study discipline, to provide a Lenten devotional for the church.
Since that time I have been thinking a great deal about what to do. How should it be shaped? From where do I pull the scripture verses? What should I write about? After much prayer, I decided to base the whole devotional on the journey that Lisa and I took to Turkey as part of the leave. While the trip lasted only seventeen days, its impact will be with me for the rest of my life. That is what I want, and hope, to share with y’all over these next few weeks.
As for the shape, this devotion will take two distinctly different ones. The first place to read it will be daily on my blog at www.servinginmaine.blogspot.com. The second will be in a weekly supplement to be included in the worship bulletin.
As for content, some days it might just be a picture, or a story, or a prayer, or a thought. There might be a short prayer or maybe it’ll be just one big prayer. The scripture texts will be pulled from Paul as well as the Revelation of John. My goal is to allow the Spirit to create the devotional with me serving as the secretary.
Any and all comments are welcome. May God bless all of us in this experience as we journey to walk, not just in the footsteps of Paul, but also on our personal spiritual path with Jesus.

It all starts tomorrow!

Deserter or Disciple

2007-12-29T09:50:00.000-05:00

From Oswald Chambers "My Utmost for His Highest" for December 29th. Something to consider...

Deserter or Disciple?
"From that time many of His disciples went back and walked with Him no more" (John 6:66).
When God, by His Spirit through His Word, gives you a clear vision of His will, you must "walk in the light" of that vision (1 John 1:7). Even though your mind and soul may be thrilled by it, if you don’t "walk in the light" of it you will sink to a level of bondage never envisioned by our Lord. Mentally disobeying the "heavenly vision" (Acts 26:19) will make you a slave to ideas and views that are completely foreign to Jesus Christ. Don’t look at someone else and say, "Well, if he can have those views and prosper, why can’t I?" You have to "walk in the light" of the vision that has been given to you. Don’t compare yourself with others or judge them—that is between God and them. When you find that one of your favorite and strongly held views clashes with the "heavenly vision," do not begin to debate it. If you do, a sense of property and personal right will emerge in you—things on which Jesus placed no value. He was against these things as being the root of everything foreign to Himself—"… for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of the things he possesses" (Luke 12:15). If we don’t see and understand this, it is because we are ignoring the underlying principles of our Lord’s teaching.
Our tendency is to lie back and bask in the memory of the wonderful experience we had when God revealed His will to us. But if a New Testament standard is revealed to us by the light of God, and we don’t try to measure up, or even feel inclined to do so, then we begin to backslide. It means your conscience does not respond to the truth. You can never be the same after the unveiling of a truth. That moment marks you as one who either continues on with even more devotion as a disciple of Jesus Christ, or as one who turns to go back as a deserter.

Yes, I am back and will try to write more consistently...

It's not what they won't do but what we can do...

2007-11-20T15:53:00.000-05:00

Yes I know...we get these types of things all the time and often we simply erase them without much thought. As a matter of that is exactly what I was going to do until I decided to give it a quick glance. What really struck me about the message was that it wasn't about talking about what others can't do but rather challenges us to look at what we can do to effect change. I like that...Let me know what you think.

Letter from Jesus about Christmas --

Dear Children,

It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival. Although I do appreciate being remembered anytime.

How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER.

Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santa's and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.

Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.

If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it:

1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.

2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.

3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.

4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.

5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.

6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference.

7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families

8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary-- especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name.

9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you.

10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine.

Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember : I LOVE YOU, JESUS

Sharing the joy!

2007-11-19T09:48:00.000-05:00

I want to offer a mighty congratulations to Rick M for his success before the Board of Ordained Ministry to become an Elder within the New England Conference of the United Methodist Church. He has worked very hard and is without a doubt called by God to share the Good News of Christ with folks within and beyond the walls of the local church! As I listened to his words I felt a great personal joy within me as well. It was the honor of being invited to share in the moment. It was a great feeling. It got me to thinking about how we share such moments in our lives.

I know there is a difference between boasting and being thankful - one is to point out something we've accomplished to lift ourselves up and the other is to honor God for how God has blessed us. When Rick shared his blessing with me it had the effect of the old "stone in the pond" in that I was able to witness God at work in this world.

Too often I hear boasts by individuals, organizations, and nations that are intended to lift them up or worse yet to put someone down. Not often enough do I hear thanksgiving for what God has done in a person's life that is actually a blessing and benefit to all. What would happen if we changed that? What would happen if we started to share with each other the way that God has blessed our lives?

We've got to be careful because if we put together a list for each day we might soon be competing with others to show that we've been blessed more than they. Do you know what I mean? As I write I also realize that those with whom the person is sharing must also see that the only purpose of the individual is to praise God from whom all blessings flow. It's not exactly what the world often tries to teach us but it is always how God guides us.

48 hours later I still am giving thanks to God that Rick would call and share such a blessing in his life. I've had the opportunity to share the news with others and they also feel blessed to see God at work. In a world that promises great gobs of goodness with chain letters, what if we started sharing our blessings with any and all we met? Don't tell anyone but it's one of the most effective ways for people to get interested in a relationship with God when they see how God is working in the lives of others!

Wow! I didn't anticipate the directions this would take but I guess the blessing that Rick shared with me had even more impact than I thought! Have a great day and remember to share your blessings!

Which Road do you take?

2007-11-13T20:20:00.000-05:00

"A professor stood before his class of twenty senior organic biology students about to hand out the final exam."I want to say that it's been a pleasure teaching you this semester. I know you've all worked extremely hard and many of you are off to medical school after summer. So that no one gets their GPA messed up because they might have been celebrating a bit too much this week, anyone who would like to opt out of the final exam today will receive a 'B' for the course."There was much rejoicing in the class as students got up, walked to the front of the class, and took the professor up on his offer. As the last taker left the room, the professor looked out over the handful of remaining students and asked, "Anyone else? This is your last chance." One final student rose up and opted out of the final.The professor closed the door and took attendance of those students remaining. "I'm glad to see you believe in yourself," he said. "You all get 'A's." How many have taken the easy way out?The short road, the easy path, the light load, all lead to lower grades in the school of life."

Fear of the unknown...comfort in the certainty...which road do you take? It's not so much about the final result as it is the experience of getting there. How many times has failure inspired success, built strength, developed determination, and led to an even greater accomplishment. When we follow Christ there are many times when the easy way seems like success. We've got a new person coming to church...our giving is up 4% this year, we sent a team to New Orleans for the first time. Is that what God is challenging us with or are we simply satisfied with what we can see? What if we fail? What if we don't achieve what is visible? Ever think that those failures could open brand new opportunities that could reveal even more powerful examples of God's grace and guidance?

It's not just believing in our selves it's having the faith to trust God that God knows what needs to happen. We are given the Free Will to make choices and we can use it as an excuse not to do something 0r to let go and trust that God is truly present. Part of that trust is realizing that just because things don't go our way doesn't mean that God is not there...it could be that because God is there we are being led to safety and sanctuary. A "B" is a great grade...but...

It's been a week already???

2007-11-12T08:18:00.001-05:00

Where did this last week go? I was all excited about getting back to church on November 4th and now it's the 12th and I am wondering where all those days went. Things started out great! I went down to the New England Conference School of Congregational Development "e3" event where I got to spend priceless time with some very good friends. The event was a huge success with over 320 registrants and some very good speakers. I got back home around 5pm on Saturday night and then was up at 5am to get to the church by 6am on the 4th. The worship team told me I only had to short letters to the church based on the 3 points of the Lilly Grant "Remembering the past, celebrating the present, adventuring the future" and then serve Communion, I could certainly handle that.

The two worship services went great (though I think I forgot how to talk on occasion - no comments please!) with Lisa and I serving Communion at both services. Rev. David Svenson, my friend and also District Superintendent attended the second worship service and helped to serve Communion. Immediately after the 2nd service we headed into Fellowship Hall for a wonderful meal prepared by a local caterer. The afternoon was filled with rest and then we headed to a friend's house to watch the Pat's whoop up on the Colts!!!!

At that point things get fuzzy. The first two days were about 14 hours in length and then they shrunk to 8-10 hours. Saturday was supposed to be my day off and I needed 1/2 of it to finish my work. Sunday morning came, I was back in the saddle and it felt good.

What interested me the most was my feeling about having to work on Saturday. Before my leave it would have been a part of my week and I'd take time later, no big deal. However, on Friday night, when I realized I was going to have to work on Saturday I got angry. That's a good thing for me!

Why? Because I have come to truly value my rest time. During the leave I came to enjoy the time I spent with my wife and having time completely away from work. I came to realize that putting down work and picking up the other parts of my life is good overall for my mental and physical health. I believe that when God rested on the 7th day it wasn't because the work was done but because God needed a break. Even though God is God, taking time away from the work of the day, the work of creation, or the work of anything else can give us a clearer perspective on that which is before us.

This past weekend I had the honor of working with a couple of friends as we put new brakes on one of our cars. At one point when things weren't fitting as they should, my friend got up and walked away for a few moments to collect his thoughts. He shortly returned and though things didn't fall immediately into place, he was more relaxed and open to other ideas. (I guess I must confess the rest of the story in that as the two of us got a little frustrated, the other friend came over, figured it, out and had the work done in very short order...We laughed about it, what more could we do? Besides, the third friend proved that sometimes a fresh set of eyes can change the view for everyone!)

It is vital that we take time off from our work. Whether we are ministers or teachers or doctors or home supervisors (is that the new word for those who work 80 hours at home without pay?) or custodians or factory workers, we must take time off. We must also guard it with great importance or it will be taken away from us.

I realize that it wasn't what happened on Friday afternoon that made me have to work on Saturday, because what I accomplished on that day was God's work indeed, but rather the planning for the whole week. We don't need to get so structured that we don't have time for spontaneity, but so we do need to make sure we consider our time of rest and renewal as important as the work we do.

We've only got one shot at this life on earth so it's important that we prioritize what we can acomplish and experience. How can we experience heaven on earth if we don't take time to care for ourselves and to spend time with those whom we love including God, family, and friends.

Oh well, it's Monday morning and I've got meetings until 9pm... But my day off is coming up!

What makes you sing...part 3

2007-10-25T19:03:00.001-04:00

And the winner is...We need to challenge and encourage each other to do that which we love not just that which helps us to survive. Below is an article telling about Paul's life before he got the guts to try out for "Britain's Got Talent" show.

Potts enjoys wild ride from penury to opera star
By Michelle NicholsReuters Wednesday, October 24, 2007; 2:34 PM
NEW YORK (Reuters) - Just five months ago, amateur opera singer Paul Potts was mired in debt and selling cell phones in Britain. Now he has a hit album and is due to tour the world.
Potts, a stocky 37-year-old Englishman with crooked teeth, entered and won the "Britain's Got Talent" television show in June in front of more than 13 million viewers and then signed a recording deal reportedly worth $2 million.
His debut album, "One Chance," has topped charts around the world including Britain, Australia and New Zealand.
"I have done more things in the last four months than I would ever have expected to do in my whole lifetime," Potts told Reuters in an interview. "It's mind-boggling."
Now his teeth are fixed, although he vows he won't end up with a "full mouth of veneers," he wears designer suits instead of the $70 suit he donned for his initial audition and he is ready to crack the United States.
"One Chance" was released in America on September 18 and has already sold nearly 70,000 copies. He has appeared on television's "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" and filmed an appearance for "The Oprah Winfrey Show" due to be broadcast next month.
"I never believed that I would end up doing this for a living," said Potts. "I wasn't sure whether I really had it because I always felt that to get anywhere in it I would need to have proper formal training and I couldn't afford that."
Potts said he had been singing most of his life and had private lessons "when I could afford them."
He also used hard-earned savings to spend a couple of months training in Italy, where he had the chance to sing for one of opera's greatest tenors, Luciano Pavarotti, who died in September.
CINDERELLA STORY
After his performance, Pavarotti told Potts "not to run out of breath at the end of an important phrase" and then asked him to sing again.
"I was the only one who got to sing twice," said Potts, who used to perform in unpaid amateur operas.
When he returned to Britain, Potts said he sent off some tapes to agents. But nobody even acknowledged receiving them, so he figured he wasn't good enough.
Then he suffered a string of health problems -- a burst appendix, a tumor on his adrenal gland and a broken collarbone when he was knocked off his bike by a car -- that crippled him financially and stopped him from singing altogether.
"We were literally using credits cards to buy food," said Potts, who lives in Port Talbot, in south Wales, with his wife Julie-Ann. He said his success has allowed the couple to pay off nearly $80,000 in debts.
Now he struggles to comprehend why so many people want to see him perform. His appearance in Denmark last month drew tens of thousands of people even though he sang only two songs.
"That's bonkers, that's just crazy ... . Are they mad?" he said.
Next year Potts will tour Britain, Australia, New Zealand and Scandinavia singing songs from "One Chance," which includes "Nessun Dorma," known as Pavarotti's most famous aria.
As well as more traditional opera fare, his album includes some unusual arrangements -- a Spanish rendition of Frank Sinatra's "My Way" and an R.E.M. hit, "Everybody Hurts," translated into Italian and sung in an operatic style.
"At the time I was unconvinced. But I never ever say no to something until I have tried it. In the end it turned out quite well, it's one of my favorites," he said of the R.E.M. song.
As for the next album, which he hopes to start working on next year: "I always used to enjoy doing Queen on karaoke."
"One that would work really well is 'Who Wants to Live Forever,' a classic tune," he said.

What makes you sing...part 2

2007-10-25T19:00:00.001-04:00

Here is the second part of the story. The first part tells some of his story and his words are very powerful. During the performance, I find watching the woman judge's face to be very telling. Though there is no mention of God at all and Paul doesn't speak of Christ, the power of the message in these videos is how Paul could have continued to sell phones all his life and not realized the full potential of his gifts had he not gotten a nudge to share the gift that is everything to him when everything else is nothing. It's amazing.

What makes you sing...Part 1

2007-10-25T18:58:00.001-04:00

What you are about to see is amazing. I am going to include a couple more videos make sure you look at each of them in order. To me, I hear it saying to trust in God and those whom God sends to us to reveal God's gift in our lives that can be used to bring blessings to the world.
What gifts do you have that God wants you to share? For Paul it was an issue of low self-esteem. How powerful it is when one or many celebrate with us the gifts that God has given to each of us. If it's not singing, what is within you that needs to get out?

What a great day of worship

2007-10-23T22:47:00.000-04:00

As part of my leave, whenever possible I like to worship in a local church. Prior to arriving in Lincoln, NH I "googled" for a local church and found some UMC's in Plymouth, Bethlehem, Concord, and a couple of other towns. Upon arriving, as I often do, I looked through some local papers and other information looking for coupons, places to travel, and other activities that might of interest while we rest. Looking through one of the papers I found a listing of local churches and found the Thornton UMC listed. It was a new location for me and I found it to be closer than any of the others. I headed out at 8:15 for a 9 am worship service. Upon arrival I found very few cars and a gentleman outside the door talking with one lady. As I approached the building he extended his hand and greeted me. "We may be small but we've got a big heart" was his comment. There was a smile on his face and he looked happy to see me.

As I headed in the door I was greeted by the pastor, Rev. R. Hanson. I had no idea that he was serving as pastor in this church. We've known each other for years and after greeting each other I met his wife, we talked about the church, and a few other things. I then moved through the small entrance area and entered the wonderful and simple sanctuary that was built in 1866. I immediately felt the warmth physically (they were anticipating a cool fall day) and fellowshiply (a new word) of the people. I took up my place, it looked unclaimed, and waited with the other 15 people in attendance. The service began and Rev. Hanson introduced me and explained that though they were a small church they were indeed filled with the Spirit.

During the worship service we sang many songs, prayed for a variety of folks - local and internationally, and listened to a sermon about "hitting the brick wall". The organist told me after the service that he played all of the wind instruments and loved Jazz. During one of the songs we sang I found myself caught in the emotions of the song just as the author had intended and it was a great feeling. When it was time to leave I felt that I had definitely worshiped and that God had blessed all who were present.

What did I learn from this experience?

Publicity, even if only in a free publication is essential. Had they not placed their information in the paper I would not have known they existed and would not have had the honor of worshiping with them. We need to let people know we are out there so that those who are searching will be able to find us.

Google maps is a good way to find a location but having signs along the road is also helpful. Again, they had one just when I was beginning to wonder and as a result I got there without getting lost.

Many churches have greeters but how many are outside the church holding the door for people to enter. Instead of asking people to come in alone to where we are willing to greet them, how much more open is it to meet them before they have to cross that thresh hold alone?

Celebrate your church. When the young man and the pastor acknowledged that they were a smaller church they didn't stop there but rather said with joy that God was definitely in that place. It wasn't just words, it was real. How do we tell people about our churches? About our programs? If we don't have anything to celebrate, why not? What is God calling us to do with what we have been given? God asked Moses what he had in his hand and with that staff Moses led the people to freedom.

Worship doesn't have to be perfect but excellence is something that we should always strive for. We may not sound like an amazing choir but if we are singing with our hearts God hears only the beauty and glory of the notes!

Smaller churches can't be measured in the same way that larger churches (over 75 in worship). So how do we do that? We need to find out just how to measure the importance of the presence of a worshiping community in a small town and not get caught up in whether or not they can afford to pay for a pastor.

If we are willing and open, God not only walks with us but lives in us and through God does amazing things. God certainly blessed this individual on Sunday in a very special place. As was noted, it's not about the size it's about the Spirit.

Again, a very special thank you to the folks of the Thornton UMC for welcoming and sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with me through their words, worship, attitudes, and actions.

Ok...enough talking...it's time to walk the walk. Are you ready to go?

We're in the White Mountains for a week...

2007-10-23T09:50:00.000-04:00

Over the past couple of days we've taken a couple of walks through the White Mountains and I thought I'd share a couple of pictures. The first day we went to the Norway Rapids and yesterday it was the Greeley Ponds. We are so blessed by all that God has created!

Enemies....

2007-10-23T07:48:00.000-04:00

"I would like for you to pray for those who are currently attempting to do us harm in our business and marriage. This is a hard prayer request but God says we should pray for our enemies." ~A prayer request from Jean, NV~ Although Jesus says it and we've gotten countless thousands of prayer requests, this was the FIRST one that followed the command at "Wings over the mountains of life", an electronic daily devotional.

This morning as I turned on the television I came across Newt Gingrich (Speaker of the US House from 1995-1999) talking about Franklin Roosevelt going on television and inviting the people of the nation to pray with him, which he did for over 9 minutes. Newt noted that FDR asked for prayers for the US men fighting in WWII but he also noted that the enemy was evil. I then went into my daily devotionals which I receive each morning when I open my email and this was there. I felt it was a message that I needed to share.

Here are some questions on this morning...who are our enemies? Who are those we believe are trying to do us harm as individuals, communities, nations, etc? When was the last time we asked God to watch over them, to guide them, to breakdown the walls of evil that may surround them, to heal them, to give us clarity to understand why they are doing such things?

To whom are we being enemies? Who feels threatened by us? When was the last time we asked for forgiveness for feelings that oppress, that hurt, that silence, that frighten those around us? Not just as individuals but also as a church, a community, a nation.

Today may we pray for all people, not just friends for that is easy and not just for ourselves for that can be selfish but for those with whom we are angry or afraid or oppressing and those around us for whom a prayer will be the most positive part of their day or may be just what changes their entire life.

Waiting for our souls to catch up...

2007-10-16T14:37:00.000-04:00

Ruth Fry was a distinguished explorer who was working in the Amazon with natives as guides and bearers. On one trip, the party made extraordinary progress through the jungle for the first two days. On the third day, however, the natives were just sitting around looking solemn and making no preparations for further travel. The chief explained that the natives couldn't go any further because," they have to wait for their souls to catch up to their bodies." (Sent to me by a friend with whom I traveled in Turkey)

Traveling 3000 miles through Turkey in 12 days with all the sites to see was amazing. At times we be in bed early hoping that a little rest would make the next day's journey a little easier. Other times we sit in the bus for hours wondering if we'd ever get to where we were going. Still, at the end of the trip I felt that my soul needed to catch up. I needed that time to rest, to reflect, to connect with my home, my family, and my friends. As I get ready to return to work in just a couple of weeks I am afraid that I will return to some old working habits and never allow my soul to catch up with my body. God rested on the 7th day. John Wesley always took time to read and to pray. I've got friends who always make time to slow down even in their hectic lives. Is it possible in mine where chaos seems to bring out the best in me? I'm working on a schedule to make time and to break old habits. It won't be easy, but as always, just as God provided the friend who sent the message, God has provided phenomenal leadership at the church so that I can focus on what God has, and is creating, and not just the chaos that is floating out there like a formless void.

We need to take time each day to let our soul catch up to us and more importantly to feed that soul on the Word of God, which quenches all thirst and is indeed the bread of heaven.

A woman...

2007-10-16T14:27:00.000-04:00

This is written in the Hebrew Talmud, the book where all of the sayings and preaching of Rabbis are conserved over time. It says: "Be very careful if you make a woman cry, because God counts her tears. The woman came out of a man's rib. Not from his feet to be walked on. Not from his head to be superior, but from the side to be equal. Under the arm to be protected, and next to the heart to be loved."

I remember hearing people quote the scriptures years ago as to how a man and woman should live as husband and wife. It seemed that the woman was supposed to serve the man, not as an equal but rather as a "wife" (as though that was a lower class of humanity...). I even used to make jokes of where a woman's rightful place should be and now I understand why most women were offended by such language. Oh the misdirected ways of youth!

I've since come to know that the texts talk of how a man should love a woman as Christ loves the church - unconditionally, always serving, listening, holding, sharing, and so many other things that Christ does for us. But the words above speak to more than just the woman we marry, it speaks to how we should treat all women. How are we doing in that area? How is the world doing? What are we doing about making it better? About making it equal? Anyone got any thoughts?

Celebrating two women...

2007-10-09T10:24:00.000-04:00

This past Sunday at 2pm in two different towns the lives of two women who never met were celebrated. One I have known since my youngest memories and the other only came into my life over the past three years. Both brought gifts that blessed my life in ways that I am still opening and enjoying to the fullest. Linda Ellis wrote a poem years ago that I thought of when I tried to figure a way to celebrate these two ladies. You may have read it but maybe not. To me it's a call for each of us to live our lives in a way that honors and praises God who created us, Jesus who loves us, and the Holy Spirit who guides us. Today I celebrate Esther and Joyce with these words...thanks to both of you!

"I read of a man who stood up to speak at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone

from the beginning to the end.
He noted that first came her date of birth

and spoke the following date with tears.
But said what mattered most of all was the dash between those years.
For that dash represents all the time

that she had spent alive on the earth.
And now only those who loved her know what that little line is worth.
For it matters not how much we own, the cars, the house, the cash --
What matters most is how we live and love

and how we spend our dash.
So think about it long and hard . . .

are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left that can still be rearranged.
If we could just slow down enough to consider what is true and real,
And try to understand the way other people feel.
Be less quick to anger and show appreciation more,
And love the people in our lives like we've never loved them before.
Treat each other with respect and more often wear a smile,
Remembering this special dash might only last a while.
So when your eulogy is being read, with your life's actions to rehash,
Would you be proud of the things they say,

about how you spent your dash?"

We made it home!

2007-10-06T13:54:00.000-04:00

Sorry it's taken so long to write again!! I do want to report that we made it safely back to the US on the 30th of September arriving at JFK airport at about 4:30pm Belfast time or 11:30pm Turkey time. Our luggage weighed considerably more on the return trip though we didn't go overboard in buying gifts. Some we will be sharing with the church and others with friends. As we walked into the airport I was struck by the many different languages I was still hearing but also by the signs and conversations that I could now understand. I loved the experience of being in someone else's home but it was really good to get back home!

We made it through customs without a problem - though just like in Belize they asked if I had ever been to New Mexico because evidently a "David Abbott" has and they want to talk with him - and headed to Jet Blue to wait for our flight to Portland that was leaving at 9:55pm. Talk about a long lay over!

Being hungry we went to "cheeseburger, cheeseburger" and ordered cheeseburgers!! Greasy, fatty, and delicious! I got the serious one and Lisa was far smarter and went a little smaller. The clock finally ticked 9:55 and we headed for Portland. I am assuming we had a smooth take off because after being awake for some 22.5 hours I fell asleep before we left the ground and didn't wake up until we were over Maine!

We loaded the car and drove to Belfast, arriving at 1:35am - just short of 18 days after we had headed for our adventure in Turkey. It wasn't until 3am that we went to sleep and then got up at 9am with the hopes of readjusting quicker....needless to say it has taken a few days to really get back in the swing of things...

Don't worry, I've got plenty of adventures from Turkey to share and a few reflections as well. I am still trying to understand the impact of this adventure and blessing that we had from, and with, God.

On a note...thanks to the many who have followed along and kept us in your prayers during this time. It's been very powerful to be able to share it with you and to feel surrounded by God's love through you!

Second note - the picture is taken on one of the roads that Paul would have used in the community known as Laodicea (Rev. 3:14-22). There are chariot tracks that have worn into the stones! It's also hear that we found a great many sea shells...which is amazing because the place is so dry! However in the first century it was a very fertile place with the water much closer than today!

Today I walked...

2007-09-30T21:26:00.000-04:00

Today I walked where Paul walked two thousand years ago to share the Word of God with those he met and I found myself in awe.

As I walked along the cobblestones in places like Ephesus, Sardis, and Philadelphia I wondered what he saw; the shops, the merchants, the lost and lonely, the rich and the poor; those who noticed and ignored him this man from away. As he passed the shops along the way what did they have to offer this man who had so much to offer them? Were they selling figs and olives, skins and fancy cloth, idols made of wood and silver, or spices and medicinal drinks sure to heal the common woe?

I wondered about the sounds of selling and of yelling, of moving and of flow. As I looked at the ruins of sand and rock it is so very hard to tell. I found myself listening to the voices of the many silenced so many years ago.

Today I walked where Paul walked and I wondered what he felt as his steps fell before mine so many years ago. Was he anxious, nervous, or excited to journey through these lands?

To walk among the people who worshiped so many gods, to offer them the one true God in whom they all could trust. Did he feel great confidence or was he walking scared?

Was he working on what next to say or trusting it would come? Was he looking forward to the synagogue or fighting to get into the theater to share the Word he knew so well that he wanted just to share, to offer people eternal life, salvation, and grace beyond compare.

Today I walked where Paul walked and recognized the call, to share the Good News of Jesus Christ with any and with all. In places that I know for sure as well as those away, to continue the journey begun so long ago as God has called me to do. To walk among the merchants, the friendly and the foe, the rich and the poor, the lonely and the lost. With fear, excitement, nervousness and awe that goes with such a call. To recognize that another will walk where I have walked and not have them wonder if I was true. To share the love of God as Paul did when he walked the path before me...

Reading scripture on Holy Ground...

2007-09-26T15:05:00.001-04:00

Even though I am on leave it was hard to keep hidden that while not traveling through Turkey I was serving as a pastor of a local church. It took a couple of days and as a result, the others on the trip saw me first as a person and then as a pastor on renewal leave. When it came time to visit the seven cities that were mentioned in God’s Revelation to John, I offered to read from the Bible I had brought (the one that I carried while doing CPE at the UNC Hospital in Chapel Hill, North Carolina) the verses that applied to each area. I wasn’t sure how folks would feel but they were more than willing. Each time that we arrived in a location, we’d get as close as we could to what would have been the church area and then I read the words that God gave to John to share with thses seven cities in Turkey. It was interesting to hear the words and to recognize that people would have been hearing similar words almost two thousand years ago. However, the most powerful reading for me came when we were in Ephesus. This is the one city that has been aggressively excavated and still there is a great deal to be done. As I read from Acts 19 beginning with verse 21 we were standing outside of the theater where the people of the town gathered in great anger because Paul was telling them that the idols that they made were no good. Demetrius the silversmith had riled other smiths with the concern that they and other businesses would soon suffer financial loss if the people of Ephesus followed Paul’s words. The crowd was reminded that Artemis was their god and this hug theater soon broke out into chants of “Great is Artemis…”. As I stood outside the theater reading the words, people were passing us (it’s estimated that between 2,000 – 7,000 people visit this site every day, especially when the cruises bring their folks!) as they moved in and out of the theater entrance. I could imagine this theater with 25,000 seats filled (about 1/10th of the population at that time) and people shouting and shouting and Paul wanting to go in but being told to stay out. The scriptures then talk of how Paul was taken to the general assembly. Because of the wisdom of our guide, we had started at the top of the hill and one of our first places had been the assembly. As I stood there reading, I remembered the long hill we had walked down, the very street that Paul had walked up to be heard and challenged. I remembered looking down from the seating area where up to 1700 people could have sat though there were around 450-500 legislators at the time, and thinking of Paul risking his life, his all to tell these folks who were strong supporters of Artemis that his God was real, that his God did not need idols, that his God would always be there for them whether or not they were able to make an offering, and how God offered eternal life through Jesus Christ. I could feel the presence of the moment; I could see the anger of the crowd, the business of the day, and the strength and commitment of Paul. It was in that reading of the many we have done that the scriptures came alive in a different way for me.