Many of you, I’m sure, recognize the above quote. If not, look up #480 in the hymnal, and you’ll find an old favorite hymn of the Christian Church. The premise of the song is simple: We, as Christians, share a story about Jesus that matters to us deeply, and it’s possible that we love that story so much, we want to tell others. Maybe it’ll matter to them too!
Alas, for all the invigorated passion that comes with singing this song, it’s rare indeed we encounter folk for whom it’s always, everyday true. And if we do, often the passion with which some tell Jesus’ story seems off-putting, or even judgmental. And yet…do you ever feel that you should be that kind of Christian, who loves to tell Jesus’ story to others? And yet, you can’t bring yourself to speak up if the occasion presents itself? I do. And I’m a preacher! I mean, I don’t want to be an obnoxious Christian. But I do believe Jesus’ story can change lives for the better, when told authentically and with an open mind. It changed my life, after all, and continues to still.
Well, a friend recently talked about this dynamic in a way I found helpful, so I thought I’d pass her wisdom along. It involves a citrus peeler. As all good insights of faith do (or not…).
Turns out, my friend bought a citrus peeler awhile back, and WOW, how she loved it! It’s like the culinary world opened before her. And with that minute object, she was master of that world. It cost only a dollar, but it allowed her to peel an orange better, faster and with greater joy than she ever imagined possible. So she bought three more. But her love did not abide solely in the splendid confines of her kitchen (and purse, and office…). She took that love with her when she entered the outside world. She located her friends, and inevitably, the following conversation (or something like it) ensued, “Wow, guess what just happened?!” “I don’t know, what? And why do you smell like oranges?” “I found the most incredible tool known to humankind!” “An Amazon Kindle? A pair of skis?” “NO! Even better. I just got a citrus peeler!” So she regaled her friends with stories of this mythic, yet very real accessory, and all she did with it, and what great fun she had in the meantime.
Turns out, after many retellings of how much she loved her citrus peeler(s), her friends joined the bandwagon, and purchased peelers of their own. They, of course, discovered how it could be useful for their unique purposes. But one by one, the citrus peeler phenomenon grew, until the story wasn’t hers alone to love any longer.
Now, if you think about it, we probably have things that are similar to her citrus peeler. For me, it’s my favorite ski mountain (Winter Park, CO!), or the Indian food restaurant on 494 and Rockford Road (Royal India). And her spiritual insight about this was simple: maybe sharing the story of Jesus is like her love of the citrus peeler. After all, what Jesus did for the world- his death and resurrection, his profoundly courageous moral and spiritual teachings- matters to many of us in ways much greater than even a citrus peeler ever could. So why don’t we treat Jesus’ story like we treat these other things that matter to us?
Good question! Maybe it’s because Jesus’ love is so personal, it’s harder to put in words. Or maybe it’s because we confuse “church” with “Jesus,” and so think telling the story isn’t about sharing our love of Jesus, but rather getting more people to come to church. Which somehow feels devious, or like we’re simply marketing a product. I don’t know. I’m sure you have ideas of your own. But one thing I do know is y’all love Jesus. So my prayer for all of us this week is we feel that love even greater, perhaps so much so we’re inspired to tell others we love why our Jesus love makes our lives so fun.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
From the President…
No, not the guy in Washington; this is something more local. An oft-unmentioned joy at Plymouth Creek, this past year, has been the leadership of our Board President, LeAnn. In terms of leadership style, hers is not bombastic or confrontational. She leads with dignity and deep listening, always seeking to accommodate others’ best hopes for their church. I’ve learned much by watching her operate.
Personal accolades aside, there’s another powerful leadership tool she’s used this year, but that few have witnessed- Her monthly President’s Report to the Board. Now, from the two Board Presidents I’ve worked with (both great and unique leaders!), it seems PCCC does these reports differently. Rather than just list what’s been happening, or necessary decisions going forward, our Presidents’ reports take on spiritual tones. They guide us in faithfulness; help keep our eyes on the prize- by encouraging us to reflect on the mission of God in the work of the Board and Church. Truth be told, it’s inspiring! It’s like having multiple preachers amongst us! And because they so consistently and powerfully wrap our Board’s work in the garment of God’s Spirit, we’re a more faithful and focused Board, which is great news for the whole church.
So I wanted you to witness this in action. This week’s ‘pastoral letter’ will be from our Board President, not me. What follows is April’s President’s Report. I pray you find it as moving and inspiring as we did last week, and that you enjoy this word of challenge and encouragement from our church’s very capable leadership:
Shall I dare say, even though it’s the middle of April, that Spring has sprung! College basketball season is over (sorry Shane – maybe next year) and baseball season has begun. The Twins won their season opener in their new home – and didn’t have to worry about being snowed out. The grass is green (and probably needs watering), and the plants, trees, and bushes are showing signs of new life! The sounds of birds singing in the morning fills the air and makes one realize how much you missed not being able to have the windows open the last 6 months or more!
Spring does have a way of making you feel like there is new life in you with all of its promises. It’s much like what promises are held with Easter – the promise of new life through our resurrected Lord. We just need to believe in him and do our best to live our lives in the way in which he taught us.
Part of this is also reaching out to others. Reaching out to those not only in our church, but more importantly, to those outside of these walls. To those people that we have yet to meet. Jesus told his disciples – as well as us – to go out and become fishers of people. This is also what we need to do in order to grow – to go and reach out to our neighbors, near and far. Even though I have a feeling that the disciples didn’t think that they had the means and resources to go into the world and teach a new way of thinking about God, they found a way to spread His word far and wide. We, too, sometimes think that we don’t have the means and resources to go out and spread His word either, but I think that if we look deep into ourselves, we will find the wisdom and the strength to do it.
Growth is not something that will happen overnight (as much as we wish it would). It is slow and needs nurturing and care. We can do this – we just need to take it one-step at a time. If we hit a bump in the road – we just need to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and keep moving one-step at a time. With God, all things are possible and remember, if He leads us to it (and I do think we have been brought to this time of seriously thinking of growth), He will get us through it!
Blessings,
LeAnn
P.S.- See what I mean! Grace and Peace this week and always- Shane
Read more!
Personal accolades aside, there’s another powerful leadership tool she’s used this year, but that few have witnessed- Her monthly President’s Report to the Board. Now, from the two Board Presidents I’ve worked with (both great and unique leaders!), it seems PCCC does these reports differently. Rather than just list what’s been happening, or necessary decisions going forward, our Presidents’ reports take on spiritual tones. They guide us in faithfulness; help keep our eyes on the prize- by encouraging us to reflect on the mission of God in the work of the Board and Church. Truth be told, it’s inspiring! It’s like having multiple preachers amongst us! And because they so consistently and powerfully wrap our Board’s work in the garment of God’s Spirit, we’re a more faithful and focused Board, which is great news for the whole church.
So I wanted you to witness this in action. This week’s ‘pastoral letter’ will be from our Board President, not me. What follows is April’s President’s Report. I pray you find it as moving and inspiring as we did last week, and that you enjoy this word of challenge and encouragement from our church’s very capable leadership:
Shall I dare say, even though it’s the middle of April, that Spring has sprung! College basketball season is over (sorry Shane – maybe next year) and baseball season has begun. The Twins won their season opener in their new home – and didn’t have to worry about being snowed out. The grass is green (and probably needs watering), and the plants, trees, and bushes are showing signs of new life! The sounds of birds singing in the morning fills the air and makes one realize how much you missed not being able to have the windows open the last 6 months or more!
Spring does have a way of making you feel like there is new life in you with all of its promises. It’s much like what promises are held with Easter – the promise of new life through our resurrected Lord. We just need to believe in him and do our best to live our lives in the way in which he taught us.
Part of this is also reaching out to others. Reaching out to those not only in our church, but more importantly, to those outside of these walls. To those people that we have yet to meet. Jesus told his disciples – as well as us – to go out and become fishers of people. This is also what we need to do in order to grow – to go and reach out to our neighbors, near and far. Even though I have a feeling that the disciples didn’t think that they had the means and resources to go into the world and teach a new way of thinking about God, they found a way to spread His word far and wide. We, too, sometimes think that we don’t have the means and resources to go out and spread His word either, but I think that if we look deep into ourselves, we will find the wisdom and the strength to do it.
Growth is not something that will happen overnight (as much as we wish it would). It is slow and needs nurturing and care. We can do this – we just need to take it one-step at a time. If we hit a bump in the road – we just need to pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and keep moving one-step at a time. With God, all things are possible and remember, if He leads us to it (and I do think we have been brought to this time of seriously thinking of growth), He will get us through it!
Blessings,
LeAnn
P.S.- See what I mean! Grace and Peace this week and always- Shane
Read more!
Thursday, April 8, 2010
The power of legacy…
I should tell you that some ideas for this month have changed. I wrote in the April Creeksider there we were planning after-church events for the 18th and 25th. Well, I was half-right. We’ve canceled things for the 18th, but not the 25th. Sorry for the late notice, but in my opinion, we’ve switched things up for the better.
The original plan was to hold a mini ‘training’ on the 18th about the concept of ‘legacy.’ Then, on the 25th, we’d ‘interview partners’ about their unique stories and values. Truth be told- upon further reflection- we thought that plan wasn’t as effective, fun or appealing as we’d prefer. But Plymouth Creek is anything if not adaptable, so we…adapted. Now, we still plan to design the sermon and service, on the 18th, around the theme ‘legacy.’ But after service, all that’s happening is we’ll hand out packets with ideas and questions to help you build on what we explored in worship. The next week, though, having pondered ‘legacy’ for a week, we’ll encounter part two (like a mini-sermon series!). And after service, everyone who wants to should stick around for a unique event. It won’t be a ‘training,’ or a series of interviews. It’ll be a Legacy Extravaganza!
Okay, that’s a bit dramatic, but it should be fun. What’ll happen is you’ll gather around tables with fellow Plymouth Creekers- folk you know well, folk you’ve wanted to know well, folk you’re only used to staring at across the aisle. Each table will have a ‘host’, to nurture conversation and take notes. And we’ll also have an emcee, who will spark the table discussions by briefly introducing ideas and questions designed to help you talk about one feature of your life story. So, after the emcee’s finished, everyone at the table will share stories, jokes, memories and insights, until sufficient time has elapsed. Then, you switch tables, to be with a whole new group. Together, you’ll chat, laugh and reminisce about a completely different part of your stories (as prompted by the emcee). And time will again expire, again you’ll switch tables, a new exercise will be presented…you get the drill. We’ll do this for an hour or so, so we don’t get over tired. But if all goes as planned, time will fly by, and we’ll be a better church for it.
So why go through all this over something as unusual as ‘legacy’? Short answer- Because we’re Christian. Longer answer- My grandma. Grandma Ray died when I was ten, and had lived a thousand miles away besides. So I didn’t see her much, but when I did visit, Grandma told me stories- from children’s books, about her late husband, about my Dad’s childhood (which made him blush). And I believe it’s through those stories she took the time to tell that I knew my Grandma loved me.
Still, I wish she’d lived long enough to tell me more. Indeed, many people my age experience nowadays what you might call ‘a loss of generational consciousness.’ Our world is faster than ever. Families live farther apart. Some of that’s for great reasons, but it creates a danger of losing something Christian faith is founded on- Legacy (aka- the stories and wisdom of the ages). After all, the Bible is simply a set of stories, told over generations, that people finally wrote down, and those words still inspire people to know and love God and neighbor. Legacy is important! As much for churches as families! But given today’s challenges, we have to make it a priority for it to work.
So, call it selfish, but I want to a) learn more about the stories and wisdom of those I worship with, b) learn to tell my story of life and faith better, and c) learn how to shape my legacy into something worth leaving behind, whenever or wherever that might be. That, in a nutshell, is why we’re doing this Legacy Project. I hope you’ll join us; it’s for all ages, for we all have stories to tell! And who knows? Perhaps they’ll inspire someone. Actually, having got to know you, I’m sure they will.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
The original plan was to hold a mini ‘training’ on the 18th about the concept of ‘legacy.’ Then, on the 25th, we’d ‘interview partners’ about their unique stories and values. Truth be told- upon further reflection- we thought that plan wasn’t as effective, fun or appealing as we’d prefer. But Plymouth Creek is anything if not adaptable, so we…adapted. Now, we still plan to design the sermon and service, on the 18th, around the theme ‘legacy.’ But after service, all that’s happening is we’ll hand out packets with ideas and questions to help you build on what we explored in worship. The next week, though, having pondered ‘legacy’ for a week, we’ll encounter part two (like a mini-sermon series!). And after service, everyone who wants to should stick around for a unique event. It won’t be a ‘training,’ or a series of interviews. It’ll be a Legacy Extravaganza!
Okay, that’s a bit dramatic, but it should be fun. What’ll happen is you’ll gather around tables with fellow Plymouth Creekers- folk you know well, folk you’ve wanted to know well, folk you’re only used to staring at across the aisle. Each table will have a ‘host’, to nurture conversation and take notes. And we’ll also have an emcee, who will spark the table discussions by briefly introducing ideas and questions designed to help you talk about one feature of your life story. So, after the emcee’s finished, everyone at the table will share stories, jokes, memories and insights, until sufficient time has elapsed. Then, you switch tables, to be with a whole new group. Together, you’ll chat, laugh and reminisce about a completely different part of your stories (as prompted by the emcee). And time will again expire, again you’ll switch tables, a new exercise will be presented…you get the drill. We’ll do this for an hour or so, so we don’t get over tired. But if all goes as planned, time will fly by, and we’ll be a better church for it.
So why go through all this over something as unusual as ‘legacy’? Short answer- Because we’re Christian. Longer answer- My grandma. Grandma Ray died when I was ten, and had lived a thousand miles away besides. So I didn’t see her much, but when I did visit, Grandma told me stories- from children’s books, about her late husband, about my Dad’s childhood (which made him blush). And I believe it’s through those stories she took the time to tell that I knew my Grandma loved me.
Still, I wish she’d lived long enough to tell me more. Indeed, many people my age experience nowadays what you might call ‘a loss of generational consciousness.’ Our world is faster than ever. Families live farther apart. Some of that’s for great reasons, but it creates a danger of losing something Christian faith is founded on- Legacy (aka- the stories and wisdom of the ages). After all, the Bible is simply a set of stories, told over generations, that people finally wrote down, and those words still inspire people to know and love God and neighbor. Legacy is important! As much for churches as families! But given today’s challenges, we have to make it a priority for it to work.
So, call it selfish, but I want to a) learn more about the stories and wisdom of those I worship with, b) learn to tell my story of life and faith better, and c) learn how to shape my legacy into something worth leaving behind, whenever or wherever that might be. That, in a nutshell, is why we’re doing this Legacy Project. I hope you’ll join us; it’s for all ages, for we all have stories to tell! And who knows? Perhaps they’ll inspire someone. Actually, having got to know you, I’m sure they will.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
How lovely…
“But Moooom! Father Tom said I could!” Oh, how I raged in that moment; convulsed by the injustice of life, or at least, of my mother.
Here’s what happened. St. Nicholas Episcopal, my church during elementary school, celebrated Good Friday with a service known as “The Stations of the Cross.” For those unfamiliar, that service symbolically ‘follows’ Jesus through Jerusalem from trial to crucifixion, ‘stopping’ at fourteen ‘stations’ to pray and contemplate. But it’s not a “sit down and listen to the preacher” experience. The church actually walks from station to station, which are located around the sanctuary’s edge. And our church didn’t just walk, we processed, with the crucifix (a long pole with a heavy brass cross on top) at the head. Carried by an acolyte. For an hour.
On the year in question, I was that acolyte, with my buddy Joel. And Father Tom, understanding how physically demanding that was for young boys said, “You can switch who holds the crucifix every few minutes. If you get tired, you may sit, even though everyone is standing.” Alas, Mom hadn’t heard his instructions. So in the middle of prayers and readings, she watched her son abandon his post to go relax in comfy chairs. “What’re you doing!?” she whispered heatedly, “Stand up!” “But Mooom…” You can imagine. Eventually, Father Tom nodded his assent, Mom calmed, and we agreed later it simply added a new wrinkle to the year’s service. “We won’t forget that Good Friday,” she said. She was right.
But it was the last Holy Week service I remember until college, since not long after, I switched churches, and the new one considered Lent and Holy Week suspect observances. In college, though, I was the token Christian among my secular friends. And one after the other, around Mardi Gras, they asked, “What’re you giving up for Lent?” “I don’t do that…” I answered, at first. But the more I was asked, the more I considered it, and eventually decided to try it out. I gave up coffee that year.
Never again.
Still, ever since, Lent has become important to my spiritual life. Some approach their faith differently (and that’s probably a good thing!), but Lenten routines help me feel like, when Easter, the most important day of our spiritual calendar, arrives, I’m prepared.
Prepared for…well, to be honest, that changes every year, and that’s what the month of Lent helps me discover. Obviously, I prepare to celebrate the central mystery of Christian faith- that our leader was killed because he challenged people with love, and then returned to new life. But life changes, so what Easter means to me changes. Like one year, I contemplated sin, and the depths of God’s unyielding forgiveness. Another year, I wondered if we should give up the word ‘sin’, and talk instead of injustice, self-defeat, pride… because ‘sin’ has been wielded like a club too much. This year, I’ve been exploring how God loves, and our response. Does God love like a parent, unconditionally and wisely? If so, will we move out of the House eventually, call every couple weeks to catch up? Does God love like a lover, intimately sustaining peace and well-being over a lifetime? If so, should we worry God might break up with us? Or like an intimate friend, or…? In our Lenten class, we discussed some of this, and I’ve been grateful for the conversation. It’s helped me know God better, and identify metaphors for God that I cling to too closely (i.e. idols). And through all that, I’ve prepared anew for Easter.
And now it’s here. He is Risen! The preparation is finished. So I wonder, however you chose to get ready, what does this Easter mean for you? Any new ideas challenging you? Any struggles finally becoming clearer? Worried about places in life- spiritual, emotional, financial, social- where a God-sized dose of resurrection could help? Whatever the answer, I pray you discover Jesus raised again- in our midst, beyond our walls, wherever (and however!) love is needed. And especially, I pray this year’s Easter services will be memorable in profound ways, even ways we haven’t prepared for!
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Here’s what happened. St. Nicholas Episcopal, my church during elementary school, celebrated Good Friday with a service known as “The Stations of the Cross.” For those unfamiliar, that service symbolically ‘follows’ Jesus through Jerusalem from trial to crucifixion, ‘stopping’ at fourteen ‘stations’ to pray and contemplate. But it’s not a “sit down and listen to the preacher” experience. The church actually walks from station to station, which are located around the sanctuary’s edge. And our church didn’t just walk, we processed, with the crucifix (a long pole with a heavy brass cross on top) at the head. Carried by an acolyte. For an hour.
On the year in question, I was that acolyte, with my buddy Joel. And Father Tom, understanding how physically demanding that was for young boys said, “You can switch who holds the crucifix every few minutes. If you get tired, you may sit, even though everyone is standing.” Alas, Mom hadn’t heard his instructions. So in the middle of prayers and readings, she watched her son abandon his post to go relax in comfy chairs. “What’re you doing!?” she whispered heatedly, “Stand up!” “But Mooom…” You can imagine. Eventually, Father Tom nodded his assent, Mom calmed, and we agreed later it simply added a new wrinkle to the year’s service. “We won’t forget that Good Friday,” she said. She was right.
But it was the last Holy Week service I remember until college, since not long after, I switched churches, and the new one considered Lent and Holy Week suspect observances. In college, though, I was the token Christian among my secular friends. And one after the other, around Mardi Gras, they asked, “What’re you giving up for Lent?” “I don’t do that…” I answered, at first. But the more I was asked, the more I considered it, and eventually decided to try it out. I gave up coffee that year.
Never again.
Still, ever since, Lent has become important to my spiritual life. Some approach their faith differently (and that’s probably a good thing!), but Lenten routines help me feel like, when Easter, the most important day of our spiritual calendar, arrives, I’m prepared.
Prepared for…well, to be honest, that changes every year, and that’s what the month of Lent helps me discover. Obviously, I prepare to celebrate the central mystery of Christian faith- that our leader was killed because he challenged people with love, and then returned to new life. But life changes, so what Easter means to me changes. Like one year, I contemplated sin, and the depths of God’s unyielding forgiveness. Another year, I wondered if we should give up the word ‘sin’, and talk instead of injustice, self-defeat, pride… because ‘sin’ has been wielded like a club too much. This year, I’ve been exploring how God loves, and our response. Does God love like a parent, unconditionally and wisely? If so, will we move out of the House eventually, call every couple weeks to catch up? Does God love like a lover, intimately sustaining peace and well-being over a lifetime? If so, should we worry God might break up with us? Or like an intimate friend, or…? In our Lenten class, we discussed some of this, and I’ve been grateful for the conversation. It’s helped me know God better, and identify metaphors for God that I cling to too closely (i.e. idols). And through all that, I’ve prepared anew for Easter.
And now it’s here. He is Risen! The preparation is finished. So I wonder, however you chose to get ready, what does this Easter mean for you? Any new ideas challenging you? Any struggles finally becoming clearer? Worried about places in life- spiritual, emotional, financial, social- where a God-sized dose of resurrection could help? Whatever the answer, I pray you discover Jesus raised again- in our midst, beyond our walls, wherever (and however!) love is needed. And especially, I pray this year’s Easter services will be memorable in profound ways, even ways we haven’t prepared for!
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
With Suffering…
Some claim that waay before globalization, the internet or the growth of KFC, the original multi-national institution was the Christian Church. I think that’s hyperbole, but it hints at something true. We are a world community of faith. We’re Middle-Easterners, Congolese, Bosnians, and Iowans. We speak many languages, hold divergent cultural assumptions. Our dinner table would offer an astonishing array of tastes! But at its center would be something all recognize- bread and a cup. And the host, our friend and savior Jesus, might look different than anticipated, but we’d recognize his voice, the mirth in his eyes, and the impossibly profound depths of his compassion.
If you ask me, the vast variety of that mosaic is wonderful. But, alas, the picture isn’t always as beautiful as I’d prefer. Recent revelations about clergy abuse in Ireland and Germany shockingly remind us anew that Christianity’s worldwide reach doesn’t always match the caring touch of our leader. Christian churches, for all our divine foundations, will also always be simply human institutions- flawed, limited, capable of much good and evil. Sometimes, Christians forget that, and act like God’s grace precludes them from criticism or loving every neighbor. I’m firmly convinced, however, that most Christians act otherwise, that our interactions with God’s Spirit nurtures humility and compassion. Not always, never perfectly, but in greater quantity than expected, and it’s that story- of the billions of ordinary compassionate Christians heroes- that makes our faith praiseworthy, regardless the bad decisions or disgusting actions of some Christian leaders.
In our denomination, we live that profound story in many ways, though among my favorites is Week of Compassion. Brief tutorial for those unfamiliar- Week of Compassion is a non-profit organization that raises and distributes funds from Disciples of Christ churches, so that together we can provide relief to some of the worst tragedies of our time. Like after Hurricane Katrina, Disciples gave WoC some $7 million to distribute in aid. The count so far regarding Haiti is roughly $2.3 million. Also, throughout the year, WoC partners with other respected Christian agencies (Church World Service, Catholic Relief Services, etc.) to provide development assistance, and quickly respond to natural disasters, domestic and international.
Some of y’all might remember November 2008, when my stepfather-in-law preached here. At the time, he was Week of Compassion’s Executive Director, and he described his many travels on our behalf. He talked about Bosnia and Herzegovina, where WoC has long-standing relationships with communities still overcoming the brutal effects of civil war. He celebrated the immense outpouring of care after a 2004 tsunami wreaked havoc in Indonesia. Current Director, Rev. Amy Gopp, has continued Week of Compassion’s pattern of strong leadership. She’s kept attention on Disciples’ efforts to help rebuild parts of Iowa overrun by 2008’s floods. She wrote recently of visiting Central Africa, where she met resilient, remarkable women receiving WoC assistance, some of whom fled remote villages to escape soldiers that, as she said, “use rape as a weapon of war.” It seems that for all the world’s beauty, the range of its suffering also looms large.
You might know that ‘compassion’ comes from a Latin word-combo meaning “with suffering.” To have compassion is to “suffer with” others; to walk a mile in their shoes, especially when that mile is hard, because you care that they need a companion, or some help. So when I claim that Christian faith’s greatest story is about billions of ordinary compassionate heroes, I think that’s what I mean. Though not always, still quite often, following Jesus gives us strength to suffer with others when needed, just as Jesus suffered the Cross.
Every year, we take up a special collection for Week of Compassion. We’ll do it Palm and Easter Sundays this year, so many can give. It’s only one way, but to my mind, it’s a good way to practice compassion, to attend to others’ sufferings because you care. I invite you to learn more about WoC and as you’re able, to give. Together, Jesus’ Disciples can do incredible good, when we’re willing to suffer with others. As Jesus showed, there’s immense power in such compassion, perhaps even the power of new life.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
If you ask me, the vast variety of that mosaic is wonderful. But, alas, the picture isn’t always as beautiful as I’d prefer. Recent revelations about clergy abuse in Ireland and Germany shockingly remind us anew that Christianity’s worldwide reach doesn’t always match the caring touch of our leader. Christian churches, for all our divine foundations, will also always be simply human institutions- flawed, limited, capable of much good and evil. Sometimes, Christians forget that, and act like God’s grace precludes them from criticism or loving every neighbor. I’m firmly convinced, however, that most Christians act otherwise, that our interactions with God’s Spirit nurtures humility and compassion. Not always, never perfectly, but in greater quantity than expected, and it’s that story- of the billions of ordinary compassionate Christians heroes- that makes our faith praiseworthy, regardless the bad decisions or disgusting actions of some Christian leaders.
In our denomination, we live that profound story in many ways, though among my favorites is Week of Compassion. Brief tutorial for those unfamiliar- Week of Compassion is a non-profit organization that raises and distributes funds from Disciples of Christ churches, so that together we can provide relief to some of the worst tragedies of our time. Like after Hurricane Katrina, Disciples gave WoC some $7 million to distribute in aid. The count so far regarding Haiti is roughly $2.3 million. Also, throughout the year, WoC partners with other respected Christian agencies (Church World Service, Catholic Relief Services, etc.) to provide development assistance, and quickly respond to natural disasters, domestic and international.
Some of y’all might remember November 2008, when my stepfather-in-law preached here. At the time, he was Week of Compassion’s Executive Director, and he described his many travels on our behalf. He talked about Bosnia and Herzegovina, where WoC has long-standing relationships with communities still overcoming the brutal effects of civil war. He celebrated the immense outpouring of care after a 2004 tsunami wreaked havoc in Indonesia. Current Director, Rev. Amy Gopp, has continued Week of Compassion’s pattern of strong leadership. She’s kept attention on Disciples’ efforts to help rebuild parts of Iowa overrun by 2008’s floods. She wrote recently of visiting Central Africa, where she met resilient, remarkable women receiving WoC assistance, some of whom fled remote villages to escape soldiers that, as she said, “use rape as a weapon of war.” It seems that for all the world’s beauty, the range of its suffering also looms large.
You might know that ‘compassion’ comes from a Latin word-combo meaning “with suffering.” To have compassion is to “suffer with” others; to walk a mile in their shoes, especially when that mile is hard, because you care that they need a companion, or some help. So when I claim that Christian faith’s greatest story is about billions of ordinary compassionate heroes, I think that’s what I mean. Though not always, still quite often, following Jesus gives us strength to suffer with others when needed, just as Jesus suffered the Cross.
Every year, we take up a special collection for Week of Compassion. We’ll do it Palm and Easter Sundays this year, so many can give. It’s only one way, but to my mind, it’s a good way to practice compassion, to attend to others’ sufferings because you care. I invite you to learn more about WoC and as you’re able, to give. Together, Jesus’ Disciples can do incredible good, when we’re willing to suffer with others. As Jesus showed, there’s immense power in such compassion, perhaps even the power of new life.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Reach out and touch someone...
A few years back, friends of mine found a website where you can make (a picture of) your own church sign. Considering I’m the token Christian in their lives, they sent me a link. The concept is simple- Picture something like what we’ve got, but you can type your own message. Naturally, this allows folk to be as reverent (“I Love You” -God), creative (Jesus Saves, He Passes to Gretzky, He Scores!!!) or irreverent (…) as they want, without having to slog through mid-winter snow. I found it clever. After all, Christian or not, most people know about “Church Signs.” They’re a cultural, and not simply religious, artifact of American life.
But I’ve been often wary of church signs. I remember an Assemblies of God church I drove by in Maine, and the sign said something like, “Don’t Want Jesus? Hell’s a Hot Alternative.” Booooo! I think that’s the worst kind of church sign theory- using the sign to lecture or condemn your neighbors (not to mention my strong disagreement with that theology!).
Still, there’re other ways to think about church signs. Take the advertising theory. Many churches have few marketing funds or expertise, but we’ve got signs, and think, “Let’s use that to advertise!” It’s a good thought. Indeed, that’s how I’ve thought of PCCC’s sign since I’ve been here. But I’ve noticed, that when we have used the sign as advertising, our efficiency rate is, basically, 0%. As best I can tell, I’ve not met one person who’s attended our services because of our sign. After all, folk visit a church because they know someone, or if not, these days they explore the website first so they don’t waste a Sunday morning! So a sign may not get folk in the door, but it might encourage folk to Google us…
Which brings me to church sign theory #3, which I began exploring last Fall, when Steve Weaver asked me to think deeper about using our sign. I started giving him sermon titles, and he’d put them out there (thanks Steve!). The reasoning was, “Perhaps the sermon title will pique folks’ interest, and maybe get ‘em in the door…” A good thought, but again, it wasn’t working. Then, someone helped me glimpse the deeper truth of Steve’s thought- The sign isn’t about nudging people in the door to consume something, ala TV advertising. It’s about doing what church does– initiating authentic relationships with neighbors.
So here’s the new church sign theory- Let’s invite people to experience our intimacy! Let’s not advertise our programs, but our selves! And as folk get to know us- our values, questions, approach to Jesus (not to mention our sense of humor)- perhaps it will minister to them, or be intriguing, or at least, they’ll know better who they live near. If you were at church on the 14th, you’ll notice that what’s on the sign currently is one person’s sense of what she took away from worship. She thought, “Perhaps those thoughts might give folk driving by the church something worth pondering...” And next Sunday, perhaps someone else (you?) will find something interesting about the sermon, scripture or music, or will be reminded of a quote or song lyric. If so, put it on the sign. If you don’t know how, ask me. Again, the idea isn’t, “Scare people, lecture people, make others gag.” That’s not how we do church, after all. We’re an open-minded, thoughtful, relaxed and fun-loving (and occasionally irreverent) bunch, who thinks Jesus transforms us and our world the more intimate we get, the deeper we live those values with each other. And that, if you ask me, is something valuable we can offer our neighbors. It’s why I’m proud I’m a member of this church. Our church sign isn’t the only way to bless others with those values. But it’s one way, perhaps, and I invite you to join the effort, to boldly share what matters to you about this church and its God! And if not this way, then I trust you’ll find another creative way to initiate loving, authentic relationships with others. Because that’s much of why we do church, right?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
But I’ve been often wary of church signs. I remember an Assemblies of God church I drove by in Maine, and the sign said something like, “Don’t Want Jesus? Hell’s a Hot Alternative.” Booooo! I think that’s the worst kind of church sign theory- using the sign to lecture or condemn your neighbors (not to mention my strong disagreement with that theology!).
Still, there’re other ways to think about church signs. Take the advertising theory. Many churches have few marketing funds or expertise, but we’ve got signs, and think, “Let’s use that to advertise!” It’s a good thought. Indeed, that’s how I’ve thought of PCCC’s sign since I’ve been here. But I’ve noticed, that when we have used the sign as advertising, our efficiency rate is, basically, 0%. As best I can tell, I’ve not met one person who’s attended our services because of our sign. After all, folk visit a church because they know someone, or if not, these days they explore the website first so they don’t waste a Sunday morning! So a sign may not get folk in the door, but it might encourage folk to Google us…
Which brings me to church sign theory #3, which I began exploring last Fall, when Steve Weaver asked me to think deeper about using our sign. I started giving him sermon titles, and he’d put them out there (thanks Steve!). The reasoning was, “Perhaps the sermon title will pique folks’ interest, and maybe get ‘em in the door…” A good thought, but again, it wasn’t working. Then, someone helped me glimpse the deeper truth of Steve’s thought- The sign isn’t about nudging people in the door to consume something, ala TV advertising. It’s about doing what church does– initiating authentic relationships with neighbors.
So here’s the new church sign theory- Let’s invite people to experience our intimacy! Let’s not advertise our programs, but our selves! And as folk get to know us- our values, questions, approach to Jesus (not to mention our sense of humor)- perhaps it will minister to them, or be intriguing, or at least, they’ll know better who they live near. If you were at church on the 14th, you’ll notice that what’s on the sign currently is one person’s sense of what she took away from worship. She thought, “Perhaps those thoughts might give folk driving by the church something worth pondering...” And next Sunday, perhaps someone else (you?) will find something interesting about the sermon, scripture or music, or will be reminded of a quote or song lyric. If so, put it on the sign. If you don’t know how, ask me. Again, the idea isn’t, “Scare people, lecture people, make others gag.” That’s not how we do church, after all. We’re an open-minded, thoughtful, relaxed and fun-loving (and occasionally irreverent) bunch, who thinks Jesus transforms us and our world the more intimate we get, the deeper we live those values with each other. And that, if you ask me, is something valuable we can offer our neighbors. It’s why I’m proud I’m a member of this church. Our church sign isn’t the only way to bless others with those values. But it’s one way, perhaps, and I invite you to join the effort, to boldly share what matters to you about this church and its God! And if not this way, then I trust you’ll find another creative way to initiate loving, authentic relationships with others. Because that’s much of why we do church, right?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Friday, March 12, 2010
To the edge…
Two weeks back, I stole one of your ideas and wrote about faith and mogul skiing. One of you responded to that letter with another great idea, which I will now steal shamelessly also!
Here’s what happened: I wrote that faith was like mogul skiing; moguls come at you so fast that the better trained you are, the easier it is to respond like you want. Ditto faithful living, goes the theory. Then, someone made a good observation, how often we speak of routine as a problem for faith, and talk about ‘keeping faith fresh.’ But maybe, he went on, there’s a positive way to think of spiritual routine, perhaps after the fashion of performers. “Ask any performer what happens when they take time off…How long does it take to lose your edge?”
That reminded me of a conversation I had years ago with a spiritual mentor. He and I spent an hour together weekly for about two years. We didn’t always see eye-to-eye, but I deeply respected his insight and spiritual maturity, and especially his ability to love me for who I was. And that’s helped shaped me into who I am today. So if any of you are searching for ways to make more of an impact with your life, consider becoming a mentor. It takes commitment and compassion, but helps people in lasting, profound ways (and you needn’t be a ‘spiritual mentor’; just hanging out with youth is enough). I have multiple ways to help you do that, by the way, just let me know.
Anyway, so Mark and I were chatting one afternoon, and we pondered what spiritual development takes. We were both musicians (he muuuuuuch better than I!), so he said, “Shane, think about concert pianists.” So I did. And I said, “I got nothing, Mark. What do you mean?” “Concert pianists practice their art daily. And they say that if they take a day or two off, they can really feel it. Others may have no clue, but they know. But if a week goes by without practice, they say critics will begin to notice; you know, those trained to pay attention. And give it a month without practice, they’ll say that the general public starts noticing. And that’s when trouble really begins!” Now, I can’t say if that’s actually true; I’ve never asked a concert pianist (some I’m relying on Jeremae- resident orchestra musician- to confirm or deny). But the analogy with how faith works is interesting. Faith requires regular practice, for it to accomplish what we want. And if practice stops, you might lose your edge.
Couple of observations- 1) Often people define “faith” as “what I believe.” But that’s wrong, or at least, incomplete. Actually, faith is something you do, something you can practice, a capacity you can build, or lose. And to narrow that to something like ‘belief’ diminishes the power of faith. In fact, it’s probably better to talk about what-faith-does by using the word “trust.” We trust that Jesus is Lord, which requires belief but means little if you don’t act or live like Jesus is Lord. Etc.
2) The way musicians practice their art is pretty straightforward- Sing every day; play scales on the piano; work on music above your skill level so you can build the capacity for more challenging material. Practicing our faith, however, isn’t always so concrete or straightforward. Jesus gave us general principles- Love God, and your neighbor as yourself- but left it to us to put that in action. And while some things are obvious ways to do this (give to Haiti relief efforts, mentor youth, assist with worship, etc.), do you ever think of such things as ‘practice’? Or is it more natural to think that is actually ‘doing faith’? Or is it both?
I notice I’m near the letter’s end, so let that be an open question. How do you “practice faith”, on a day-to-day basis? I’ll write a follow-up soon with some ideas and wisdom from folk who’ve thought about that question deeply. Until then, I pray you keep your edge sharp and shining bright. In all things,
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Here’s what happened: I wrote that faith was like mogul skiing; moguls come at you so fast that the better trained you are, the easier it is to respond like you want. Ditto faithful living, goes the theory. Then, someone made a good observation, how often we speak of routine as a problem for faith, and talk about ‘keeping faith fresh.’ But maybe, he went on, there’s a positive way to think of spiritual routine, perhaps after the fashion of performers. “Ask any performer what happens when they take time off…How long does it take to lose your edge?”
That reminded me of a conversation I had years ago with a spiritual mentor. He and I spent an hour together weekly for about two years. We didn’t always see eye-to-eye, but I deeply respected his insight and spiritual maturity, and especially his ability to love me for who I was. And that’s helped shaped me into who I am today. So if any of you are searching for ways to make more of an impact with your life, consider becoming a mentor. It takes commitment and compassion, but helps people in lasting, profound ways (and you needn’t be a ‘spiritual mentor’; just hanging out with youth is enough). I have multiple ways to help you do that, by the way, just let me know.
Anyway, so Mark and I were chatting one afternoon, and we pondered what spiritual development takes. We were both musicians (he muuuuuuch better than I!), so he said, “Shane, think about concert pianists.” So I did. And I said, “I got nothing, Mark. What do you mean?” “Concert pianists practice their art daily. And they say that if they take a day or two off, they can really feel it. Others may have no clue, but they know. But if a week goes by without practice, they say critics will begin to notice; you know, those trained to pay attention. And give it a month without practice, they’ll say that the general public starts noticing. And that’s when trouble really begins!” Now, I can’t say if that’s actually true; I’ve never asked a concert pianist (some I’m relying on Jeremae- resident orchestra musician- to confirm or deny). But the analogy with how faith works is interesting. Faith requires regular practice, for it to accomplish what we want. And if practice stops, you might lose your edge.
Couple of observations- 1) Often people define “faith” as “what I believe.” But that’s wrong, or at least, incomplete. Actually, faith is something you do, something you can practice, a capacity you can build, or lose. And to narrow that to something like ‘belief’ diminishes the power of faith. In fact, it’s probably better to talk about what-faith-does by using the word “trust.” We trust that Jesus is Lord, which requires belief but means little if you don’t act or live like Jesus is Lord. Etc.
2) The way musicians practice their art is pretty straightforward- Sing every day; play scales on the piano; work on music above your skill level so you can build the capacity for more challenging material. Practicing our faith, however, isn’t always so concrete or straightforward. Jesus gave us general principles- Love God, and your neighbor as yourself- but left it to us to put that in action. And while some things are obvious ways to do this (give to Haiti relief efforts, mentor youth, assist with worship, etc.), do you ever think of such things as ‘practice’? Or is it more natural to think that is actually ‘doing faith’? Or is it both?
I notice I’m near the letter’s end, so let that be an open question. How do you “practice faith”, on a day-to-day basis? I’ll write a follow-up soon with some ideas and wisdom from folk who’ve thought about that question deeply. Until then, I pray you keep your edge sharp and shining bright. In all things,
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
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