My most recent reading companion is the book Empire of Liberty: A History of the Early (American) Republic, 1789-1815 by Gordon S. Wood (trivia question: In what 1990’s Oscar-winning film does a character cite that author?). I know, I’m out of school, I should develop more useful hobbies. But for this week leading up to July Fourth, the book contains some relevant info. Truly!
For instance, you maybe realized that the title’s date range corresponds to the formation period of our denomination. Not that our earliest leaders and members would’ve described it that way! When those faithful souls embarked on a new adventure in faith, the goal was abolishing denominations. “Unity is our Polar Star.”
I studied our church history in seminary, but what this book emphasizes that I’d never appreciated was the general chaos of those decades. We hear a lot in school (and political campaigns!) about the revolutionary generation- our founding mothers and fathers- their battles, their tea parties, their ax-wielding and truth-telling. But once they kicked the Red Coats back to Buckingham, the story often ends. Or skips ahead to the Wild West and Civil War. Reminds me of learning about Israel’s Exodus, singing songs of Moses and the Red Sea, reading about the wilderness sojourn and arrival in the Promised Land. But what happens next- i.e. the tough, turbulent work of creating a new nation in a new home- that was glossed over so we could play David and Goliath.
So it was in my American History classes. Turns out, though, the couple decades post-Revolutionary War were capitol C Crazy, or if you prefer, dynamic! For starters, no one had ever attempted democracy over such vast territory. Then, what little functioning government they had was being made up on the fly (independent judiciary, postal system, taxing authorities). Plus, people were pushing to expand political participation, to restrict it, to free slaves, to enslave more, to quickly settle Native American land, to slowly arrive at a just agreement (no one said, “Just leave them alone”), and everything in between. And this near-anarchy crossed into churches as well. Newer, frequently subversive, forms of worship and preaching appeared, pushing older, established (read- European) churches to adapt. Culture became more entrepreneurial and wild. Churches adapted further. It was chaos; so much so, new ways of doing church were inevitable. Enter…Disciples of Christ.
So it’s no coincidence that a (if not the) fundamental value for us is “Freedom,” right?! Not after emerging in the decades following the Revolution, and their subsequent upending of many hierarchies and traditions. Nowadays, we’re usually considered ‘Old School,’ with our hymnals, organ, lack of video screens and predictable worship patterns. We’re usually better at nurturing freethinking, diverse believing and relevant engagement with the world than most contemporary style churches. It’s not a little ironic, then, to remember the days when Disciples worship got wild and crazy.
In Genesis 1, aka The Beginning, the author paints a kind of ‘before the big bang’ picture. It’s non-scientific, obviously, but sublime and truthful nevertheless. The idea is that Earth then was a shapeless, watery void. In a word, all was chaos. But over this chaos the Spirit moved to form order, then life. Creation, therefore, requires both bedlam and guidance.
What was in the beginning, is now, as they say. Some churches prioritize chaos over order, and vice versa (we lean to the “order” side, yes?). But both are useful. Indeed, are necessary for creating new things. Over our national and denominational history, we’ve seen periods of disruption and periods of formation, times of strife and disunion and times of reconciliation and progress. So next week, as we ponder and celebrate that national history, take a moment to ask- What’s next (for our nation, our church, your life)? Shall I/We risk a little chaos? Is it time, instead, to pick up pieces and build anew? What went on before that needs conserving? What gets in the way of Me/Us following God’s call? If you dare, feel free to share your answers with me! And thanks to all who’ve gone before, and continue still, to establish our freedom- religious or otherwise.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Friday, July 1, 2011
Thursday, June 23, 2011
It’s time…
My landlady, this morning, walked out her door as I did mine. And, as she’s apt to do, she commented on our garden. “Time to pick those Kale greens. They look great!” I said Thanks, didn’t correct her (they’re Chard…so close enough), then went to my car chewing on the idea.
Truth is I’ve been wondering for a while whether, in fact, it’s time to pick the Chard (and in case you don’t know, Chard is a leafy, nutritious vegetable, quite tasty when sautéed). The garden store label, when we bought them, claimed they’re ready after sixty days. So since we planted early May, I expected to wait a few more weeks. But some of the leaves have already grown rather big, and given that our dryer vent blows directly on them, I’m anxious every time I look. “Should I harvest some now, before bugs and hot air destroy them? Should I wait until they reach juuuust the right size? Shouldn’t I google “Rainbow Chard” and seek an expert opinion?” Now that my landlady has weighed in, I imagine we’ll pick a few this week. Tabitha, who likes them even more than I, will be pleased.
Those of you who garden, or have farmed are likely shaking your heads right now, thinking, “Wow Shane, you’re a rookie.” And yes, I basically am, it’s my second season growing food. I don’t have expert knowledge yet, nor a practiced, veteran eye. Those with greater experience probably would not a) have planted Chard beneath a dryer vent, or b) waver and worry as often as I do. When is it time? I wonder often. How will I know? I should’ve asked before, but if you have wisdom, let me know!
Fortunately, in gardening, I can find such answers quickly- ask knowledgeable friends, read expert websites. But other life situations aren’t so easy, right? I’ve heard many say recently, “Now’s a great time to buy a house!” Quickly followed by, “If it’s a good time for you, that is.” That registers because Tab and I are currently buying a home. But unlike my backyard Chard, when deciding whether “it’s time” to become homeowners, there was no obvious solution. Did many have suggestions and good wisdom? Absolutely! Did anything say, specifically, “Do x, y, then z, and you’ll eliminate all risk”? No way. Not credibly, at least! Or how about those we know retiring, or friends beginning college or careers? They’re maybe thinking, “Is this the right moment, the right major, the best next step?” “Is it time to go forward or time to stay put?” How will I know?
I’ve been thinking this week about Jacob- he of Genesis 25-50- since this Sunday’s sermon is a story from his life. One night, you may recall (and this isn’t the sermon, fyi!), he stood at a crossroad waiting for what promised to be a difficult, eventful morning. A man approached and attacked Jacob. So they wrestled. But Jacob soon realized the stranger was an angel…or maybe God. Jacob says, “I won’t let you go until you bless me.” Bold, amen?! The godperson busts Jacob’s hip, changes his name to Israel, and says, “There. You’re blessed.”
Elusive story, but I find hope in the idea that wrestling with something, with God even, can take the form of blessing. When it comes to harvesting Chard, the comparison’s overdramatic. But other situations, meaningful situations, can feel exactly like wrestling. Unfortunately, sometimes, I’ve felt pressure to not wrestle, to make big decisions quick and clean. “Don’t have a 17-point plan for the future?! Why not?!” Answer: Because it matters and it’s complex and we want to get it right. I’ve met those who think (pretend?) such stuff is easy, who don’t understand my struggling, but it’s nice that God does. That God, even, will wrestle with us- challenge us to focus on what’s good and not what’s easy, push us to risk more than we think we’re capable of- offers peace during times we’re confused, worried or scared. For when we do take that step, whatever it may be, we’ll be confident the Lord’s with us, fighting for blessings for all involved.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Truth is I’ve been wondering for a while whether, in fact, it’s time to pick the Chard (and in case you don’t know, Chard is a leafy, nutritious vegetable, quite tasty when sautéed). The garden store label, when we bought them, claimed they’re ready after sixty days. So since we planted early May, I expected to wait a few more weeks. But some of the leaves have already grown rather big, and given that our dryer vent blows directly on them, I’m anxious every time I look. “Should I harvest some now, before bugs and hot air destroy them? Should I wait until they reach juuuust the right size? Shouldn’t I google “Rainbow Chard” and seek an expert opinion?” Now that my landlady has weighed in, I imagine we’ll pick a few this week. Tabitha, who likes them even more than I, will be pleased.
Those of you who garden, or have farmed are likely shaking your heads right now, thinking, “Wow Shane, you’re a rookie.” And yes, I basically am, it’s my second season growing food. I don’t have expert knowledge yet, nor a practiced, veteran eye. Those with greater experience probably would not a) have planted Chard beneath a dryer vent, or b) waver and worry as often as I do. When is it time? I wonder often. How will I know? I should’ve asked before, but if you have wisdom, let me know!
Fortunately, in gardening, I can find such answers quickly- ask knowledgeable friends, read expert websites. But other life situations aren’t so easy, right? I’ve heard many say recently, “Now’s a great time to buy a house!” Quickly followed by, “If it’s a good time for you, that is.” That registers because Tab and I are currently buying a home. But unlike my backyard Chard, when deciding whether “it’s time” to become homeowners, there was no obvious solution. Did many have suggestions and good wisdom? Absolutely! Did anything say, specifically, “Do x, y, then z, and you’ll eliminate all risk”? No way. Not credibly, at least! Or how about those we know retiring, or friends beginning college or careers? They’re maybe thinking, “Is this the right moment, the right major, the best next step?” “Is it time to go forward or time to stay put?” How will I know?
I’ve been thinking this week about Jacob- he of Genesis 25-50- since this Sunday’s sermon is a story from his life. One night, you may recall (and this isn’t the sermon, fyi!), he stood at a crossroad waiting for what promised to be a difficult, eventful morning. A man approached and attacked Jacob. So they wrestled. But Jacob soon realized the stranger was an angel…or maybe God. Jacob says, “I won’t let you go until you bless me.” Bold, amen?! The godperson busts Jacob’s hip, changes his name to Israel, and says, “There. You’re blessed.”
Elusive story, but I find hope in the idea that wrestling with something, with God even, can take the form of blessing. When it comes to harvesting Chard, the comparison’s overdramatic. But other situations, meaningful situations, can feel exactly like wrestling. Unfortunately, sometimes, I’ve felt pressure to not wrestle, to make big decisions quick and clean. “Don’t have a 17-point plan for the future?! Why not?!” Answer: Because it matters and it’s complex and we want to get it right. I’ve met those who think (pretend?) such stuff is easy, who don’t understand my struggling, but it’s nice that God does. That God, even, will wrestle with us- challenge us to focus on what’s good and not what’s easy, push us to risk more than we think we’re capable of- offers peace during times we’re confused, worried or scared. For when we do take that step, whatever it may be, we’ll be confident the Lord’s with us, fighting for blessings for all involved.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Thursday, June 16, 2011
In your bones…
I woke up each morning last week greeted by the faint ripples and peaceful rhythms of a narrow lake surrounded by forest. At the edges of St. John’s University, guarded mostly from sight, a simple series of bunkhouses and common rooms called the Collegeville Institute provides writers secluded rehearsal space to craft metaphors, fine tune sentences and magnify their souls. As you know, the Institute invited me and another ten young clergy to work and write together for the week, under the practiced pen of a fine instructor. So, immersed in verbs and nature, not dorm rooms or pep band camp (though we heard them practicing…), I created and I struggled, hoping somehow to write something my colleagues would enjoy, and our teacher wouldn’t demolish!
Mostly, I think that happened, although one or two of my efforts were not, well, ready for print. But I’m confident I return having grasped the basic thrust of the workshop- Words with rhythm are words that sing. Let me explain. Some of you, I’m sure, know about power verbs and controlling metaphors, free modifiers and balanced sentences. They’re all new to me, however, these technical tricks of the trade. Previously, I just wrote, whatever came to mind, imagining how someone might speak the words, how folk might hear them, whether my wife would respond (as she’s rightly done before), “It’s nice Honey, what- exactly- is your point?” But I learned this week that more than words a good sentence makes. The order they receive, the patterns they produce, the movement of metaphor to subject or idea to application, all can work for the writer or against the writer. Our choice.
And particularly important, the teacher taught, is paying close attention to the flow of words, the sequence of syllables, the internal rhythms. For these rhythms help readers hear the emotional content of one’s writings, the unwritten reasons, all the while burrowing into the soul and memory, leaving more lasting, even transformative impressions. Would you remember, word for word, “It’s important to distinguish carefully between fiscal allegiance to the political realm, and whether, or how much, it conflicts with God’s sovereignty?” Didn’t think so. But I suspect you recollect Jesus’ original balanced sentence: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s; give to God what is God’s.” Rhythm matters.
So we worked with writing rhythms all week, producing page after jumbled page with one goal in mind: storing those rhythms in our writing souls, imbedding them in our bones. The marrow of good writing, you might say, is the rhythm of its words. Which, if true, makes me think that good Christian living and good writing have something in common.
You’ve spent time in the woods before, right? Lounging beside a blissful lake, hiking a robust forest trail. Likely, you breathed deeper on those days, saw clearer, felt better. Maybe you seemed closer to God. Many, myself included, experience that in nature. We discern, if ever so slightly, those nearly hidden rhythms of life, the ones we normally rush past or crowd out, the beats of God’s heart, the subtle stops and starts of Creation. Beneath the winding rivers and buzzing bees, we hear the Spirit whisper or sing, “I love you. I love you. I love you.” And it always delivers peace. Maybe nature doesn’t do that for you. Perhaps a powerful song, beautiful prayer, time spent serving the poor or even a well-delivered sermon (!), perhaps these are what salve your soul, what reveal to you the rhythms of God’s heart, keeping the universe in time.
Whatever gets you there (and I trust something does!), it’s critical for good Christian living to not just enjoy those moments and hope to return, one day. Rather, we seek out such places, such divine concert halls, to learn the rhythms, to memorize the beats, and to make them our own. The marrow of good Christian living, you might say, is the rhythm of God’s words. Hearing, then recreating the cadence of God’s beating heart.
May you have ears to hear this week. May you love God and God’s Creation in return!
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Mostly, I think that happened, although one or two of my efforts were not, well, ready for print. But I’m confident I return having grasped the basic thrust of the workshop- Words with rhythm are words that sing. Let me explain. Some of you, I’m sure, know about power verbs and controlling metaphors, free modifiers and balanced sentences. They’re all new to me, however, these technical tricks of the trade. Previously, I just wrote, whatever came to mind, imagining how someone might speak the words, how folk might hear them, whether my wife would respond (as she’s rightly done before), “It’s nice Honey, what- exactly- is your point?” But I learned this week that more than words a good sentence makes. The order they receive, the patterns they produce, the movement of metaphor to subject or idea to application, all can work for the writer or against the writer. Our choice.
And particularly important, the teacher taught, is paying close attention to the flow of words, the sequence of syllables, the internal rhythms. For these rhythms help readers hear the emotional content of one’s writings, the unwritten reasons, all the while burrowing into the soul and memory, leaving more lasting, even transformative impressions. Would you remember, word for word, “It’s important to distinguish carefully between fiscal allegiance to the political realm, and whether, or how much, it conflicts with God’s sovereignty?” Didn’t think so. But I suspect you recollect Jesus’ original balanced sentence: “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s; give to God what is God’s.” Rhythm matters.
So we worked with writing rhythms all week, producing page after jumbled page with one goal in mind: storing those rhythms in our writing souls, imbedding them in our bones. The marrow of good writing, you might say, is the rhythm of its words. Which, if true, makes me think that good Christian living and good writing have something in common.
You’ve spent time in the woods before, right? Lounging beside a blissful lake, hiking a robust forest trail. Likely, you breathed deeper on those days, saw clearer, felt better. Maybe you seemed closer to God. Many, myself included, experience that in nature. We discern, if ever so slightly, those nearly hidden rhythms of life, the ones we normally rush past or crowd out, the beats of God’s heart, the subtle stops and starts of Creation. Beneath the winding rivers and buzzing bees, we hear the Spirit whisper or sing, “I love you. I love you. I love you.” And it always delivers peace. Maybe nature doesn’t do that for you. Perhaps a powerful song, beautiful prayer, time spent serving the poor or even a well-delivered sermon (!), perhaps these are what salve your soul, what reveal to you the rhythms of God’s heart, keeping the universe in time.
Whatever gets you there (and I trust something does!), it’s critical for good Christian living to not just enjoy those moments and hope to return, one day. Rather, we seek out such places, such divine concert halls, to learn the rhythms, to memorize the beats, and to make them our own. The marrow of good Christian living, you might say, is the rhythm of God’s words. Hearing, then recreating the cadence of God’s beating heart.
May you have ears to hear this week. May you love God and God’s Creation in return!
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Just do it…
It’s NBA Finals season, for those who remain professional basketball fans. I think that number’s been declining since my teens; the heyday of Nike shoe icon Michael Jordan. Back then, I watched as many Chicago Bulls and Denver Nuggets games as possible. I even got to see “His Airness” in person once. He scored 39 points, decimating the hometown squad, but we didn’t care. We were in the presence of greatness, and we knew it. Since then, however, it seems the popularity of professional b-ball has waned, while NFL football has waxed like a candle on Christmas Eve. Nonetheless, I’ve watched a few playoff games this year, and am enjoying the final 7-game series. I don’t care much about the two teams competing- Dallas and Miami- but it brings me back to when the sport occupied a precious place in my heart.
I even used a sentence from Michael Jordan’s book as my ‘Senior Quote’ in the 12th grade yearbook. It read, “I can accept failure; I can’t accept not trying.” Easy words (and yes, for you grammar sticklers, a classic example of poor writing- double negatives being confusing and all) from someone who ended his career as the unqualified best. But even for us mere mortals, I think that idea applies. No one reading this, I’m certain, has succeeded at every venture they’ve attempted. You’ve likely went after many things for which success was far from assured. Still, you ‘just did it’ anyway. You tried, whatever the odds. And I’d bet there’ve been times- the best of times, as it were- things actually worked out!
I’ve pondered Jordan’s words a lot recently, anticipating this week in particular. As you may recall, I’m spending the week at St. Johns, having been selected to participate in a writing workshop for young clergy. Thus, all week, I’ll attend classes on metaphors and sentence structure and then, in the evenings, put those lessons into practice. A professional writer and writing teacher will be our guide, as well as our editor. I expect to see much red ink on what I give to her for judgment! But hopefully, I’ll come out the other side with greater grammatical refinement and increased authorial confidence. All in a tranquil, holy setting in the forests of Middle Minnesota.
I love writing. Probably an un-shocking revelation. But ask anyone who’s received an email from me. “Shane,” they’d say, “Sure seems to have lots to say…” Or, if you prefer, I’m long-winded; something I will concentrate on this week. Notwithstanding, it’s a special joy for me, most weeks, to sit at my laptop and hammer away at the keys, composing these letters or Sunday sermons with as much creativity and power as I can muster. That my job allows me this freedom is a great blessing. And yet, as much writing as I do, it took a long time for me to admit my love for it. Claiming to be ‘a writer’, or to even want to become one, felt pretentious somehow, or waaaaay over stating the case. I’d love, someday, to write books- or something- but haven’t had the courage or knowledge or skill set or…to try. Even applying for this workshop felt strange; as if that meant believing in something about myself that I had no right to believe. But when the opportunity arose, I eventually admitted I wanted to take a shot. I also remembered your collective encouragement and so ‘just did it.’ If I don’t say it enough, Thank You!
And who knows? Maybe I won’t enjoy this week. Or maybe I’ll learn I don’t have what it takes and will ‘be cured of the bug.’ But I hope not. I hope I’ll build more skills, discover even greater passion for the task and will return better at my job by being more confident and guided in this activity I love. The point is you never learn if you can succeed if you don’t risk failure. And in true ‘Air Jordan’ fashion, I’ve finally ruled out not trying.
So tell me, what is it you want to just do? I pray you’ll do it!
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
I even used a sentence from Michael Jordan’s book as my ‘Senior Quote’ in the 12th grade yearbook. It read, “I can accept failure; I can’t accept not trying.” Easy words (and yes, for you grammar sticklers, a classic example of poor writing- double negatives being confusing and all) from someone who ended his career as the unqualified best. But even for us mere mortals, I think that idea applies. No one reading this, I’m certain, has succeeded at every venture they’ve attempted. You’ve likely went after many things for which success was far from assured. Still, you ‘just did it’ anyway. You tried, whatever the odds. And I’d bet there’ve been times- the best of times, as it were- things actually worked out!
I’ve pondered Jordan’s words a lot recently, anticipating this week in particular. As you may recall, I’m spending the week at St. Johns, having been selected to participate in a writing workshop for young clergy. Thus, all week, I’ll attend classes on metaphors and sentence structure and then, in the evenings, put those lessons into practice. A professional writer and writing teacher will be our guide, as well as our editor. I expect to see much red ink on what I give to her for judgment! But hopefully, I’ll come out the other side with greater grammatical refinement and increased authorial confidence. All in a tranquil, holy setting in the forests of Middle Minnesota.
I love writing. Probably an un-shocking revelation. But ask anyone who’s received an email from me. “Shane,” they’d say, “Sure seems to have lots to say…” Or, if you prefer, I’m long-winded; something I will concentrate on this week. Notwithstanding, it’s a special joy for me, most weeks, to sit at my laptop and hammer away at the keys, composing these letters or Sunday sermons with as much creativity and power as I can muster. That my job allows me this freedom is a great blessing. And yet, as much writing as I do, it took a long time for me to admit my love for it. Claiming to be ‘a writer’, or to even want to become one, felt pretentious somehow, or waaaaay over stating the case. I’d love, someday, to write books- or something- but haven’t had the courage or knowledge or skill set or…to try. Even applying for this workshop felt strange; as if that meant believing in something about myself that I had no right to believe. But when the opportunity arose, I eventually admitted I wanted to take a shot. I also remembered your collective encouragement and so ‘just did it.’ If I don’t say it enough, Thank You!
And who knows? Maybe I won’t enjoy this week. Or maybe I’ll learn I don’t have what it takes and will ‘be cured of the bug.’ But I hope not. I hope I’ll build more skills, discover even greater passion for the task and will return better at my job by being more confident and guided in this activity I love. The point is you never learn if you can succeed if you don’t risk failure. And in true ‘Air Jordan’ fashion, I’ve finally ruled out not trying.
So tell me, what is it you want to just do? I pray you’ll do it!
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Thursday, June 2, 2011
Good God…
“God is good!” I often open the service with that phrase. It’s part one of a call-and-response used in many African-American churches, and the right reply, you know, is, “All the time!”
Many folk in recent weeks, I suspect, have questioned that goodness. Maybe wondered whether God’s good some of the time, but takes days off. Life, after all, can be terribly tragic. Just ask friends in North Minneapolis or Joplin, Missouri who’ve watched homes and lives destroyed by devastating tornados. God is good? Really…
I realize it’d be foolish to assume we could, in this letter, adequately address that concern. Humans have sought to understand, from time immemorial, why bad things happen to good people, or- to put it simply- “Why me?” No final answer’s been given yet. My words won’t end debate. Our world is both fragile and wonderful, hostile and lovely. So it will ever be.
That’s not to say, however, that humans haven’t found ways to cope. For instance, I personally believe yes, God is good all the time, and no tornado can change that. And that belief resides at the core of my worldview. I accept as basic fact what 1 John 4:8 puts so elegantly, “God is love.” In my heart and soul, all things flow from that bountiful river, and when I’m feeling healthy and whole, even in the toughest of times, it delivers “peace that passes understanding.”
Wait. That idea mostly satisfies my heart and soul. There is, though, a little gnaw of doubt or incompleteness or compassion for folk in distress that causes me to sometimes double-back, to ask, “Is God’s love actually enough?” You’ll recognize my hesitation. It often accompanies a familiar question- “If God was so good, why didn’t God stop the tornado?” I’ll be honest; every answer I’ve ever explored seems not enitiiiirely like The One. Some say, “God’s got a plan. Just trust and believe.” If it were my house toppled, I’d hate that answer. Others say, “God is love. God couldn’t stop the tornado, but God won’t ever stop caring.” I like that better; it’s closest to my heart. till, it makes God seem powerless, right, like a sideline spectator who only cheers and boos our lives, and that’s weirdly dissonant with “The Creator of All.” Others say, “Accept there is no God.” Doubtful. I’ve had enough encounters with something ‘holy’ there ain’t no turning back. I have decided to follow Jesus. Come what may.
Ever read Job? Many know Job’s story- real decent guy has his world fall apart, then spends thirty-five chapters talking to his pals and complaining to God about it- but have you read those chapters? Stunning poems (some are the Bible’s oldest words, fyi), which describe the kind of courage all religious people ought to mimic. Job’s friends say, essentially, “It must be your fault things fell apart.” Job says, “No. It isn’t. And God needs to come here and account for Godself.” Calling God on the carpet…Saying, “Lord, if you’re so darn good, come tell me yourself cause all I got now is heartache, idiot friends and empty silence.” As I said, courageous!
And the good news? God shows up. Sure, the poet puts rather uncomforting words in God’s mouth. But the fact God arrives, actually gives Job an accounting, helps me, at least, abide my questions and doubts better. Like Job’s author, I think God can handle our outrage, our sense of being treated unfairly, our anger and pain. That God would attend to us, even as we suffer and storm, sounds right. That God doesn’t want us hiding our heads in the sand or turning away from God, but demanding answers to understandable, if unanswerable, questions seems appropriate. Beautiful, even. Because bottling them up, satisfying ourselves with despair or simple answers, won’t help anyone over the long run. Getting it out, though, saying, “Lord, help me believe,” is a coping strategy I’d stand behind. It won’t settle the doubts, probably. But it might help us take steps towards peace and acceptance. It helps me, at least, in light of hard events, to say God is good. And mean it.
All the time.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Standing secure…
Many of you know that Tabitha and I have begun looking at homes to buy; our first ever such purchase (Yeah!) (Yikes!). Which means we’re now occasionally taking walks through other people’s homes. There are fun parts- kitchens, living rooms, backyards; moderately-fun parts- bathrooms, closets, pantries. Then, there’s the basement. Basements (in the price range we’re considering!) don’t often have ‘fun things’ to see. Lots of concrete. Maybe an old washer and dryer. But mostly, these basements weren’t designed for, say, entertaining guests.
Still, we go to the basement in every house we look at. Why? You know- The Foundation. The first home we entered, the basement floor was cracking and brittle. Much of the house, otherwise, looked wonderful, but it’s like an underground lake was prepping to explode into the home at any moment. We won’t be making an offer. We saw other houses with foundation questions, some consequential, others less so. I like certain things about house shopping much more than checking the foundation, yet I know that’s what makes a building worth occupying. Or not.
Ready for the metaphor shift? Say it with me- “So it is with churches.” Our ultimate foundation, of course, is as secure as can be imagined. Christ has risen! But for every church, the unique elements that build their edifices of faith must hold together, or the entire structure could crumble. And by that, I don’t simply mean the building where they worship. I mean the stuff supporting the work and worship they do- stewardship, hospitality, administration. And in recent months, the Board (one important brick in our foundation) made changes y’all will want to know about, and perhaps weigh in on.
For one, we decided to move ahead on the Community Garden Project and with our church now the overall manager. Yes, some nearby neighbors raised concerns, and their input helped. But the overall goal of helping 40ish families grow their own food and flowers will be pursued. I pray we’ll enjoy this outreach project, build new relationships and feel proud about caring for God’s earth and others!
Second, the Board adopted two policies in recent months that focus our administration. The first was a Bus Usage Policy, addressing many issues related to this new ministry and ensuring we’re as safe as possible. The second was a Memorial Funds Usage Policy, deciding how to manage money donated in memory of loved ones who’ve passed. To make certain we’re using these gifts as intended, we decided, A) To establish an “Internal Line of Credit,” i.e. a safety net in the event we’re ever again in dire financial straits. Prayerfully, that money will never be used, but we thought it good stewardship of memorials to set aside emergency cash for very rainy days. And B) Anything above that can (and should) be used on capital improvements for the church’s ministry. This can mean hymnals, signs, new boilers or instruments. And, in the event we’re considering a non-emergency purchase above $5,000, the Board decided to ask the congregation to vote yeah or nay. Some things need general support to be effective additions to our life together. If you want to read these policies, I’ll get you a copy.
Lastly, the Board is also recommending that, at the June 26 Annual Meeting, the church modify its by-laws to change Board size and make-up. The recommended new language is in this newsletter. But here’s the cliff notes: We want to reduce Board size to six (2 new directors/year) and invest the President and Vice President with voting authority. This will make it easier to schedule meetings, have substantive conversations and vote on important issues. Further, with fewer Board Members, our collective energies can be better directed toward other ministry!
Like I said, it’s like walking through a basement- not real exciting, but vital. Indeed, that the Board takes time not simply to listen to reports, but to reflect seriously on church policy, i.e. the beams and foundation stones that make our church unique, should make us feel good. That work isn’t always amusing, but it provides vision and security that, with God’s help, will help us thrive over the long-term.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Still, we go to the basement in every house we look at. Why? You know- The Foundation. The first home we entered, the basement floor was cracking and brittle. Much of the house, otherwise, looked wonderful, but it’s like an underground lake was prepping to explode into the home at any moment. We won’t be making an offer. We saw other houses with foundation questions, some consequential, others less so. I like certain things about house shopping much more than checking the foundation, yet I know that’s what makes a building worth occupying. Or not.
Ready for the metaphor shift? Say it with me- “So it is with churches.” Our ultimate foundation, of course, is as secure as can be imagined. Christ has risen! But for every church, the unique elements that build their edifices of faith must hold together, or the entire structure could crumble. And by that, I don’t simply mean the building where they worship. I mean the stuff supporting the work and worship they do- stewardship, hospitality, administration. And in recent months, the Board (one important brick in our foundation) made changes y’all will want to know about, and perhaps weigh in on.
For one, we decided to move ahead on the Community Garden Project and with our church now the overall manager. Yes, some nearby neighbors raised concerns, and their input helped. But the overall goal of helping 40ish families grow their own food and flowers will be pursued. I pray we’ll enjoy this outreach project, build new relationships and feel proud about caring for God’s earth and others!
Second, the Board adopted two policies in recent months that focus our administration. The first was a Bus Usage Policy, addressing many issues related to this new ministry and ensuring we’re as safe as possible. The second was a Memorial Funds Usage Policy, deciding how to manage money donated in memory of loved ones who’ve passed. To make certain we’re using these gifts as intended, we decided, A) To establish an “Internal Line of Credit,” i.e. a safety net in the event we’re ever again in dire financial straits. Prayerfully, that money will never be used, but we thought it good stewardship of memorials to set aside emergency cash for very rainy days. And B) Anything above that can (and should) be used on capital improvements for the church’s ministry. This can mean hymnals, signs, new boilers or instruments. And, in the event we’re considering a non-emergency purchase above $5,000, the Board decided to ask the congregation to vote yeah or nay. Some things need general support to be effective additions to our life together. If you want to read these policies, I’ll get you a copy.
Lastly, the Board is also recommending that, at the June 26 Annual Meeting, the church modify its by-laws to change Board size and make-up. The recommended new language is in this newsletter. But here’s the cliff notes: We want to reduce Board size to six (2 new directors/year) and invest the President and Vice President with voting authority. This will make it easier to schedule meetings, have substantive conversations and vote on important issues. Further, with fewer Board Members, our collective energies can be better directed toward other ministry!
Like I said, it’s like walking through a basement- not real exciting, but vital. Indeed, that the Board takes time not simply to listen to reports, but to reflect seriously on church policy, i.e. the beams and foundation stones that make our church unique, should make us feel good. That work isn’t always amusing, but it provides vision and security that, with God’s help, will help us thrive over the long-term.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
Greetings!...
Ever heard about role-playing games? According to Wikipedia, these are (board, card, video) games “in which players assume the roles of characters in a fictional setting.” In high school, certain RPGS were popular among my friends. ‘Dungeons and Dragons’, which basically created the genre in the 70s, continues to be faithfully played. I’m not an expert, but from what I know, I respect the concept.
Of course, some think these games are simply for fantasy and science fiction fans. But the same basic idea is behind Murder Mystery Dinner Parties. Someone hosts a dinner. Everyone ‘pretends’ the setting is some different time or place, and dresses accordingly. All the guests are assigned ‘roles’ (i.e. “You’re a 1950s flight attendant from Georgia who’s suspicious of men with mustaches”), and they work together during and after dinner to solve a ‘crime’ that’s been committed. If I’m right, years back Plymouth Creek organized such parties in members’ homes and folk had a blast! In fact, a couple ‘kits’ are in my office closet…in case you’re itching to host…
The point is role-playing games can be fun, and even at times instructive. Indeed, I think folk can learn things about themselves- what they love, how they react to others, what they’d like to get better at- by ‘inhabiting’ the role, or life, of another, fictional person. If they’re paying attention! It reminds me of acting classes. Crying on stage, I learned, often demands that actors discover and then recall sad memories or feelings in their own lives. That self-discovery process can be tough, but can also have positive effects that outlive the part one’s playing.
A couple weeks back, you’ll recall, a group of PCCCers led a ‘workshop’ on hospitality. We’d recently overhauled the Sunday morning greeting process to better reflect our values and vision and wanted folk to see what we’ve come up with. Well, one of the tools used at the workshop was…role playing. Don’t scoff. Providing good hospitality is hard! Sure, some folk are wonderfully gifted hosts. They’re naturals at striking up good conversation and setting people at ease. These are Hospitality All-Stars, admired by all. But I’m not that way! Many Christians aren’t. Nevertheless, we’re all called to help provide ‘unconditional hospitality’ to all who’d come share Christ’s Table with us.
In other words, hospitality is a skill. That Christians can, and must, build. So to practice, we role-played; acted out common scenarios we encounter with church visitors. In one ‘scene,’ I was “John Doe,” who wanted to be as anonymous as possible. Another was a Hopeful Skeptic, still another, a Church Shopper. After all, many different folk walk into our church and we, as faithful Christians, must be prepared to provide welcome. “But Shane,” you’d say, “It’s the Greeters’ job- not mine- to welcome visitors.” I’d respond, “Not true!” Yes, our Hospitality Hosts are step #1, but everyone contributes to a culture of unconditional hospitality. You needn’t become best friends with every visitor. But welcoming others is part of our Sunday morning duties; a requirement of membership in the Body of Christ.
The question becomes, then, “What kind of hospitality are your good at?” Or even, “How can you get better?” We’ll probably host more workshops and role playing events. If you want help better imagining what visitors desire from church, or to better understand your own blessings and limitations, join in. Or do a little role playing with the Greeter at the front desk next week. Until a visitor comes in, then put that practice into action! Or simply take a moment this week to imagine yourself welcoming others to church. What do they look like? What do they want? How can you help them? After all, we’ve all visited a church before, and most likely, how warmly we were welcomed contributed hugely to whether we had a good experience or not. Indeed, if I looked deep in your heart, I bet I’d see that’s what’s at the core of your faith. God somehow convinced you that you were welcome in God’s presence, and it made all the difference.
So how are you going to do that for someone else this week?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Of course, some think these games are simply for fantasy and science fiction fans. But the same basic idea is behind Murder Mystery Dinner Parties. Someone hosts a dinner. Everyone ‘pretends’ the setting is some different time or place, and dresses accordingly. All the guests are assigned ‘roles’ (i.e. “You’re a 1950s flight attendant from Georgia who’s suspicious of men with mustaches”), and they work together during and after dinner to solve a ‘crime’ that’s been committed. If I’m right, years back Plymouth Creek organized such parties in members’ homes and folk had a blast! In fact, a couple ‘kits’ are in my office closet…in case you’re itching to host…
The point is role-playing games can be fun, and even at times instructive. Indeed, I think folk can learn things about themselves- what they love, how they react to others, what they’d like to get better at- by ‘inhabiting’ the role, or life, of another, fictional person. If they’re paying attention! It reminds me of acting classes. Crying on stage, I learned, often demands that actors discover and then recall sad memories or feelings in their own lives. That self-discovery process can be tough, but can also have positive effects that outlive the part one’s playing.
A couple weeks back, you’ll recall, a group of PCCCers led a ‘workshop’ on hospitality. We’d recently overhauled the Sunday morning greeting process to better reflect our values and vision and wanted folk to see what we’ve come up with. Well, one of the tools used at the workshop was…role playing. Don’t scoff. Providing good hospitality is hard! Sure, some folk are wonderfully gifted hosts. They’re naturals at striking up good conversation and setting people at ease. These are Hospitality All-Stars, admired by all. But I’m not that way! Many Christians aren’t. Nevertheless, we’re all called to help provide ‘unconditional hospitality’ to all who’d come share Christ’s Table with us.
In other words, hospitality is a skill. That Christians can, and must, build. So to practice, we role-played; acted out common scenarios we encounter with church visitors. In one ‘scene,’ I was “John Doe,” who wanted to be as anonymous as possible. Another was a Hopeful Skeptic, still another, a Church Shopper. After all, many different folk walk into our church and we, as faithful Christians, must be prepared to provide welcome. “But Shane,” you’d say, “It’s the Greeters’ job- not mine- to welcome visitors.” I’d respond, “Not true!” Yes, our Hospitality Hosts are step #1, but everyone contributes to a culture of unconditional hospitality. You needn’t become best friends with every visitor. But welcoming others is part of our Sunday morning duties; a requirement of membership in the Body of Christ.
The question becomes, then, “What kind of hospitality are your good at?” Or even, “How can you get better?” We’ll probably host more workshops and role playing events. If you want help better imagining what visitors desire from church, or to better understand your own blessings and limitations, join in. Or do a little role playing with the Greeter at the front desk next week. Until a visitor comes in, then put that practice into action! Or simply take a moment this week to imagine yourself welcoming others to church. What do they look like? What do they want? How can you help them? After all, we’ve all visited a church before, and most likely, how warmly we were welcomed contributed hugely to whether we had a good experience or not. Indeed, if I looked deep in your heart, I bet I’d see that’s what’s at the core of your faith. God somehow convinced you that you were welcome in God’s presence, and it made all the difference.
So how are you going to do that for someone else this week?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
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