I can’t think of any more Christian act than sharing food with others. Are they hungry? Offer some dinner, and a place to rest. Are they young adults away from home during the holidays? Invite them to your family’s celebrations. Is she returning from the hospital after surgery, or he’s laid low with a winter flu? Bring over a hotdish or pot of soup. That’s what Christians do.
During high school, my sister and I decided to find a different church. My parents saw this as us taking ownership of our spiritual journey, so blessed the endeavor. Thus, we went “church shopping” (a terrible term, amen?!) for the first time in our lives. And the place that made the strongest impression- indeed, where we worshipped for several years- was Metro Community Church, a Church of Christ-affiliated congregation in east Denver. One important reason for that was the singing, an important consideration for this long-time choir boy. The congregation didn’t simply mouth the hymns’ words, willing the sermon to start sooner. Enthusiastically, these worshippers used song to praise God loudly and proudly. It was quite attractive!
But I think the main reason we chose that church had to do with food. Not only did they celebrate Communion every Sunday, important to my soul. After service, a group of students, young adults and less young adults invited my sister and me to lunch. “Hey,” they said, “You’re new here. Thanks for joining us in worship! We’re going to eat now; we’d love it if you joined us.” Being an introvert, I was a little nervous, but they truly seemed interested to include me in their spiritual community. So we said yes, and that turned into a pattern. Not every Sunday, but often we’d join other Christian friends for after-church food, always remembering to invite visitors if we’d been blessed with some that day. Other churches I’ve attended had similar practices because, well, Christians share food. It’s what we do. It’s how Jesus taught us to live together.
Every March, the Greater Minneapolis Council of Churches (on whose Board I sit and now chair the Strategic Planning Committee) sponsors the largest annual food drive throughout Minnesota. It’s called the Minnesota Foodshare, and every year, partner churches, non-profits, businesses and more raise over half of the food and funds that Minnesota’s 300+ foodshelves distribute to hungry families. Last year, the effort provided 13 million pounds and dollars of food. And the best part is that every dollar donated went entirely to local foodshelves. That’s different than other food drive organizations, Second Harvest for instance, who certainly do good work, but have higher overhead costs or don’t give all donated funds directly to food shelves. The Foodshare, by contrast, either encourages people to give to their closest food distribution center- like IOCP or PRISM- or to the Foodshare directly, whose Food Fund distributes 100% of its proceeds to statewide shelves and pantries. Again, over half of our state’s charitable food assistance comes from this March campaign, which doesn’t solve the problem of hunger. But imagine the increased struggles if Foodshare didn’t exist?
For the past couple years, our local foodshelf- IOCP- has sponsored a March food drive they call Donation Creation, encouraging churches, schools and businesses to gather food and funds for hunger assistance. They’ve procured this year $100,000 in matching grants from Mosaic Inc. and the local Lions Club, $1 matched for every pound of food or dollar donated, a nice enticement indeed! Plus, they encourage friendly competition- every partner can build a sculpture with their donations. Two years ago, ours was chosen as the best among participating churches!
I’m hoping this March, we’ll win again. And I hope you’re with me! Our plan’s to bring foodshelf donations to church from now until mid-March, then we’ll construct whatever lovely sculpture strikes our creative fancy. Plus, we’ll do so in our sanctuary, beautifying worship with food for hungry people. If you’d prefer to give money, that’s welcome too, since one dollar donated can purchase an additional 9 pounds of food. Sounds like fun, right?! Sounds, as well, like exactly what Christians do. Feed the hungry. Celebrate compassion. Share food.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Wednesday, February 12, 2014
From Brokenness to Community…
The summer between my junior and senior years of college, I worked for a Presbyterian church in San Antonio. It was my first “official” foray into the wonderful world of professional ministry. The church hired me as a summer intern for their high school ministry program. So my days were spent hanging out with youth group members, teaching bible studies, and pursuing activities glorious and goofy. And at certain times during the season, we took our young people on fun, enriching, Jesus-themed adventures. There was a trip to the Texas coast, to retreat with other high school groups. We splashed at a nearby waterpark. We served several communities in need. But the most significant trip was the week we traveled to a camp outside of Philadelphia.
You may be thinking, “Well, of course, camp, that’s obvious for summer youth group activities.” Except, this time, our students weren’t the camp participants; they were workers. You see, the camp was run by a local organization that focused on people with disabilities, and they set no “limit” on the severity of someone’s disability for inclusion in their community. So they’d send buses to local group homes or wherever these disabled folk lived, transport them to a facility in nearby hills, and run programming throughout the week. Some of the campers were high-functioning adults or youth, who could move and speak with decent levels of success. Other campers were wheelchair confined, unable to talk, needing helpers to eat, sleep and use the restroom. Our youth group didn’t directly take care of the campers; the organization ensured trained assistants for those essential functions. Rather, we helped run games and play in the pool, or provided labor for camp rebuilding projects. It was one part construction project, one part relationship building, another gigantic heaping of education about the needs of disabled people, and every part full of grace.
I can’t describe how profoundly this week moved me, as I both met the campers and guided my youth. I’d never interacted over an extended period with people enduring such hardships, such need. So to prepare me for the, well, shock, my boss that summer gave me a book. It was small, about 50 pages, basically a publication of two lectures given several years ago to students at Harvard Divinity School by a man named Jean Vanier. Turns out, Rev. Dr. Vanier is a modern spiritual guru, renowned throughout the world, particularly for his uniquely powerful ministry with and spiritual teaching about people living with disability. I knew none of that when I read his book; it was simply a work requirement. Yet in its pages, and through his simple, accessible words, I discovered a vision of Christian faith and Christian community that challenged me, even changed me.
Essentially, his point was this- We all suffer brokenness, of various kinds. For some, that spiritual, psychological or physical struggle is obvious for all to see. For others, it’s hard to define and hidden, often even from ourselves. Yet it’s there, and it makes a difference, contributes to isolation, loneliness and suffering. The goal of Gospel, however, is to lead us beyond our brokenness to community with others and God. Perhaps that sounds obvious, but it struck me like a hammer, because the way Vanier suggested that worked was different than I normally expect. He said grace uses our brokenness, embraces it, builds upon it, rather than denies it, avoids it or presumes it can all be healed.
Thus, the title of his book is From Brokenness to Community, and it’s remained atop my spiritual favorites since. And as I pondered recently what Plymouth Creek should do during Lent 2014, this seemed a worthy theme. So it’ll guide worship and sermons, and as has become typical, every Wednesday during Lent, I’ll lead a book discussion at church. Staring March 12, from 6-7 PM (and there’ll be food…), we’ll engage this man’s profound spirituality. Expect to learn about the needs of disabled people, Vanier’s unique journey in faith, and- hopefully- your own needs and hurts and God’s amazing ability to bring us together.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
You may be thinking, “Well, of course, camp, that’s obvious for summer youth group activities.” Except, this time, our students weren’t the camp participants; they were workers. You see, the camp was run by a local organization that focused on people with disabilities, and they set no “limit” on the severity of someone’s disability for inclusion in their community. So they’d send buses to local group homes or wherever these disabled folk lived, transport them to a facility in nearby hills, and run programming throughout the week. Some of the campers were high-functioning adults or youth, who could move and speak with decent levels of success. Other campers were wheelchair confined, unable to talk, needing helpers to eat, sleep and use the restroom. Our youth group didn’t directly take care of the campers; the organization ensured trained assistants for those essential functions. Rather, we helped run games and play in the pool, or provided labor for camp rebuilding projects. It was one part construction project, one part relationship building, another gigantic heaping of education about the needs of disabled people, and every part full of grace.
I can’t describe how profoundly this week moved me, as I both met the campers and guided my youth. I’d never interacted over an extended period with people enduring such hardships, such need. So to prepare me for the, well, shock, my boss that summer gave me a book. It was small, about 50 pages, basically a publication of two lectures given several years ago to students at Harvard Divinity School by a man named Jean Vanier. Turns out, Rev. Dr. Vanier is a modern spiritual guru, renowned throughout the world, particularly for his uniquely powerful ministry with and spiritual teaching about people living with disability. I knew none of that when I read his book; it was simply a work requirement. Yet in its pages, and through his simple, accessible words, I discovered a vision of Christian faith and Christian community that challenged me, even changed me.
Essentially, his point was this- We all suffer brokenness, of various kinds. For some, that spiritual, psychological or physical struggle is obvious for all to see. For others, it’s hard to define and hidden, often even from ourselves. Yet it’s there, and it makes a difference, contributes to isolation, loneliness and suffering. The goal of Gospel, however, is to lead us beyond our brokenness to community with others and God. Perhaps that sounds obvious, but it struck me like a hammer, because the way Vanier suggested that worked was different than I normally expect. He said grace uses our brokenness, embraces it, builds upon it, rather than denies it, avoids it or presumes it can all be healed.
Thus, the title of his book is From Brokenness to Community, and it’s remained atop my spiritual favorites since. And as I pondered recently what Plymouth Creek should do during Lent 2014, this seemed a worthy theme. So it’ll guide worship and sermons, and as has become typical, every Wednesday during Lent, I’ll lead a book discussion at church. Staring March 12, from 6-7 PM (and there’ll be food…), we’ll engage this man’s profound spirituality. Expect to learn about the needs of disabled people, Vanier’s unique journey in faith, and- hopefully- your own needs and hurts and God’s amazing ability to bring us together.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Servant Leading…
A cliché common to our denomination is that we Disciples struggle saying what we believe, because we don’t believe in much. There’s something to that, but don’t push it too far. We have numerous and powerful shared convictions. We just don’t list doctrines, dogmas, creeds or “beliefs” like other communions do.
For instance, say someone asks, “What do Disciples believe in?” Bad, but frequent, answer? “Uh…Jesus…” Better answer? “I’m glad you asked! Truth is, we disagree about much. But that’s fine, because our most important- let’s call it conviction- is that everyone has freedom to believe differently. We think God is so grand, and humans so interesting, we can all claim various things about God and Jesus, and still all be faithful. After all, no one knows the full truth about God, right?” In other words, freedom is more important to Disciples than conformity. It makes for more diverse beliefs, but isn’t a rainbow more beautiful than plain white paper?
(By the way, should that conversation ever come up, end it this way, “Why not celebrate that awesome idea with us?! Services begin at 10. We can go to lunch after…”)
Anyway, I bring this up to highlight another core Disciples’ conviction. Indeed, this one’s my favorite, and is shared by most Protestants. It’s a belief in the “priesthood of all believers,” i.e. all Christians have the capacity to act as “priests.” Which begs the question- What’s a priest? And how do I act as one? Maybe you’re imagining a man in a black shirt and collar, seated in a confessional booth. That’s one way our Catholic brothers (but not sisters, alas) put ideas about priesthood into practice.
But the idea goes deeper. Reconsider that confessional practice- a priest acts as an intermediary between God and another person; being God’s ears, speaking God’s words of grace, standing in for God. When performed with skill and compassion, Catholic confession can prove a profound gift. Yet that basic behavior- standing in God’s place for another, sharing God’s special grace with a neighbor- transcends the confessional experience, and resides the core of “priesthood.” And it needs to happen, because God’s so mysteriously vast, we little humans need help approaching God. Without another to act our ‘priest’ sometimes, we feel disconnected, unredeemed.
One main difference between us and Catholics, however, is who qualifies as priest. Put simply, Disciples don’t think it takes ordination for a person to stand in fully for God. I may know more about the Bible than you. I’d guess I’ve preached more sermons. But I’m no more capable of channeling God’s love and forgiveness than you or any Christian. All of us can re-represent God! Every Christian has priestly opportunities! Your neighbor, grandchild or friend need grace? God’s waiting but for you to deliver!
Our most visible symbol of that conviction is how we practice communion. More than clergy preside at our Table; lay people get in the game too. In our bulletin, even, we remove Rev. from my name when it’s my turn to host. That’s to highlight the fact I’m empowered to serve at the Table because of my baptism, not ordination. Being Disciples, different churches do it different, but all include something of this belief- the priesthood of all believers. God sees us all the same.
Typically, Disciples’ churches designate “Elders” for that task. For various reasons, we dub our Elders “Servant Leaders.” Many of you have taken a Servant Leader turn. FYI, our current Servant Leaders are LeAnn, Russ, Deb Knight and- most recently- Ben Wellumson (thank Donna Jarvi and Glenda for their recently-ended, good service!) As Servant Leaders, these faithful Christians provide worship leadership, and community-wide spiritual leadership too. They’re visible symbols of God’s grace made tangible in our midst, like any good priest. If you have concerns about health- spiritual or physical; for you, a friend or the church as a whole- they’re ready to listen and respond. That’s what Servant Leaders do.
But neither forget that you too are empowered to stand in God’s place for another in need. Be it with words of comfort, challenge or forgiveness, act the priest. That’s what all Disciples can do.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
For instance, say someone asks, “What do Disciples believe in?” Bad, but frequent, answer? “Uh…Jesus…” Better answer? “I’m glad you asked! Truth is, we disagree about much. But that’s fine, because our most important- let’s call it conviction- is that everyone has freedom to believe differently. We think God is so grand, and humans so interesting, we can all claim various things about God and Jesus, and still all be faithful. After all, no one knows the full truth about God, right?” In other words, freedom is more important to Disciples than conformity. It makes for more diverse beliefs, but isn’t a rainbow more beautiful than plain white paper?
(By the way, should that conversation ever come up, end it this way, “Why not celebrate that awesome idea with us?! Services begin at 10. We can go to lunch after…”)
Anyway, I bring this up to highlight another core Disciples’ conviction. Indeed, this one’s my favorite, and is shared by most Protestants. It’s a belief in the “priesthood of all believers,” i.e. all Christians have the capacity to act as “priests.” Which begs the question- What’s a priest? And how do I act as one? Maybe you’re imagining a man in a black shirt and collar, seated in a confessional booth. That’s one way our Catholic brothers (but not sisters, alas) put ideas about priesthood into practice.
But the idea goes deeper. Reconsider that confessional practice- a priest acts as an intermediary between God and another person; being God’s ears, speaking God’s words of grace, standing in for God. When performed with skill and compassion, Catholic confession can prove a profound gift. Yet that basic behavior- standing in God’s place for another, sharing God’s special grace with a neighbor- transcends the confessional experience, and resides the core of “priesthood.” And it needs to happen, because God’s so mysteriously vast, we little humans need help approaching God. Without another to act our ‘priest’ sometimes, we feel disconnected, unredeemed.
One main difference between us and Catholics, however, is who qualifies as priest. Put simply, Disciples don’t think it takes ordination for a person to stand in fully for God. I may know more about the Bible than you. I’d guess I’ve preached more sermons. But I’m no more capable of channeling God’s love and forgiveness than you or any Christian. All of us can re-represent God! Every Christian has priestly opportunities! Your neighbor, grandchild or friend need grace? God’s waiting but for you to deliver!
Our most visible symbol of that conviction is how we practice communion. More than clergy preside at our Table; lay people get in the game too. In our bulletin, even, we remove Rev. from my name when it’s my turn to host. That’s to highlight the fact I’m empowered to serve at the Table because of my baptism, not ordination. Being Disciples, different churches do it different, but all include something of this belief- the priesthood of all believers. God sees us all the same.
Typically, Disciples’ churches designate “Elders” for that task. For various reasons, we dub our Elders “Servant Leaders.” Many of you have taken a Servant Leader turn. FYI, our current Servant Leaders are LeAnn, Russ, Deb Knight and- most recently- Ben Wellumson (thank Donna Jarvi and Glenda for their recently-ended, good service!) As Servant Leaders, these faithful Christians provide worship leadership, and community-wide spiritual leadership too. They’re visible symbols of God’s grace made tangible in our midst, like any good priest. If you have concerns about health- spiritual or physical; for you, a friend or the church as a whole- they’re ready to listen and respond. That’s what Servant Leaders do.
But neither forget that you too are empowered to stand in God’s place for another in need. Be it with words of comfort, challenge or forgiveness, act the priest. That’s what all Disciples can do.
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Wednesday, January 22, 2014
Champion…
Most of you know I invest too much of my emotional well-being in the fortunes of my favorite football team- The Denver Broncos. And perhaps you’ve heard by now that the Broncos recently became champions of the American Football Conference, earning the right to represent the AFC in February 2nd’s international commercial extravaganza. Excuse me. I meant, The Super Bowl.
In our dominated-by-competition culture, the term “champion” carries one specific connotation most often. A champion is the winner, the victor, the best, that which comes out on top. Obviously, sport is a natural arena where people use “champion” to describe a successful participant. But so too is “champion” thrown around after, say, a comparison of blenders a person might purchase. You put the machines through a battery of culinary tests, and the highest performing gets dubbed the champion. Presumably, it’s this connotation being relied upon when brand names incorporate “champion”- windows, shoes, spark plugs, juicers. They want to say they’re #1.
But there’s another meaning for “champion”; related, but it shades a bit different. A champion could also refer to a person who represents a group of people, who works most effectively on their behalf and upholds their rights and desires. For example, in Hebrew Bible times, opposing armies often designated a Champion. This was the best fighter among their ranks, the most effective advocate for their battlefield interests. And it was common for those armies to send their champions into single combat - rather than fight in full- winner’s army claims victory. Think David and Goliath, one the Israelite champion, the other a champion for the Philistines.
In one regard, this person was “the best” among his people group, so similar to how I first used the word above. But more important was this champion’s role as a representative for the group, or rather, advocate and leader, its guiding star. It’s in this sense we speak of Martin Luther King Jr. as “championing” civil rights. Not that he won a competition among other 1960s activists. Rather, it’s saying that he represented the interests of that issue and its constituency effectively; he worked well for racial justice. So too has the most recent pope, Francis, been called a “champion for the poor.”
Several years ago, my wife and I talked about our dissatisfaction with using “Lord” to describe Jesus. I know it’s important to the classical identity for Disciples of Christ; we confess that “Jesus is Lord,” and leave it at that. But that metaphor- Lord- sounds more regal, or aristocratic than I usually value. I’m a fan of democracy. I think Jesus would celebrate us being equal before the law, having no “lords” to lord over us. For that reason, and more besides, we wondered if another term or contemporary metaphor might be better Christ.
I suspect this question wouldn’t matter to some of you, but it got our minds going. “Best Friend” seemed too familiar; “CEO” too wrapped up in moral complexity. Likewise, using current political offices as a metaphor for Jesus- President, Prime Minister, Senator, Secretary- also felt too compromised for our tastes, not strong enough or holy enough to designate Christ.
At which point, Tabitha said, “You know, I think Jesus is my…Champion.” I loved that idea, knowing she meant not that Jesus was like Denver this season. The importance of Christ isn’t that we believe he’d kick butt in a tournament including Muhammad, Moses and Krishna. Instead, it was the notion that, better than any other figure with whom we Christians identify, Jesus stood for the best of what was possible in our spiritual lives. He represented the best of who we could be. He works on our behalf still to ensure we know we’re forgiven, loved, and free. You’ve maybe heard, therefore, in the past couple years, I’ve ended many prayers in “the name of Jesus, my Champion.” Because I believe he loves me as best I can be loved, and calls me to be the best I can be. And however much I’ll cheer for the Broncos in two Sundays, even their success can’t hold a candle to this Light for All the World, our Champion of Grace.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
In our dominated-by-competition culture, the term “champion” carries one specific connotation most often. A champion is the winner, the victor, the best, that which comes out on top. Obviously, sport is a natural arena where people use “champion” to describe a successful participant. But so too is “champion” thrown around after, say, a comparison of blenders a person might purchase. You put the machines through a battery of culinary tests, and the highest performing gets dubbed the champion. Presumably, it’s this connotation being relied upon when brand names incorporate “champion”- windows, shoes, spark plugs, juicers. They want to say they’re #1.
But there’s another meaning for “champion”; related, but it shades a bit different. A champion could also refer to a person who represents a group of people, who works most effectively on their behalf and upholds their rights and desires. For example, in Hebrew Bible times, opposing armies often designated a Champion. This was the best fighter among their ranks, the most effective advocate for their battlefield interests. And it was common for those armies to send their champions into single combat - rather than fight in full- winner’s army claims victory. Think David and Goliath, one the Israelite champion, the other a champion for the Philistines.
In one regard, this person was “the best” among his people group, so similar to how I first used the word above. But more important was this champion’s role as a representative for the group, or rather, advocate and leader, its guiding star. It’s in this sense we speak of Martin Luther King Jr. as “championing” civil rights. Not that he won a competition among other 1960s activists. Rather, it’s saying that he represented the interests of that issue and its constituency effectively; he worked well for racial justice. So too has the most recent pope, Francis, been called a “champion for the poor.”
Several years ago, my wife and I talked about our dissatisfaction with using “Lord” to describe Jesus. I know it’s important to the classical identity for Disciples of Christ; we confess that “Jesus is Lord,” and leave it at that. But that metaphor- Lord- sounds more regal, or aristocratic than I usually value. I’m a fan of democracy. I think Jesus would celebrate us being equal before the law, having no “lords” to lord over us. For that reason, and more besides, we wondered if another term or contemporary metaphor might be better Christ.
I suspect this question wouldn’t matter to some of you, but it got our minds going. “Best Friend” seemed too familiar; “CEO” too wrapped up in moral complexity. Likewise, using current political offices as a metaphor for Jesus- President, Prime Minister, Senator, Secretary- also felt too compromised for our tastes, not strong enough or holy enough to designate Christ.
At which point, Tabitha said, “You know, I think Jesus is my…Champion.” I loved that idea, knowing she meant not that Jesus was like Denver this season. The importance of Christ isn’t that we believe he’d kick butt in a tournament including Muhammad, Moses and Krishna. Instead, it was the notion that, better than any other figure with whom we Christians identify, Jesus stood for the best of what was possible in our spiritual lives. He represented the best of who we could be. He works on our behalf still to ensure we know we’re forgiven, loved, and free. You’ve maybe heard, therefore, in the past couple years, I’ve ended many prayers in “the name of Jesus, my Champion.” Because I believe he loves me as best I can be loved, and calls me to be the best I can be. And however much I’ll cheer for the Broncos in two Sundays, even their success can’t hold a candle to this Light for All the World, our Champion of Grace.
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Tuesday, January 14, 2014
Strictly business,
As part of a Collegeville Institute fellowship I received, I spent last Monday and Tuesday meeting with other new-ish Minneapolis pastors and several Minnesota business leaders. The goal was to learn more about this sector of civil society and discern connections with religion. The conversations were full, enlightening and challenging. I slept hard when I got home!
Some of you already knew I was doing this, because of one advance homework assignment. I was required to identify three “business people” in my congregation, and ask them questions about their work and its relationship to faith. I’ll admit- I loved those conversations! I think they did too… We sat together over coffee for an hour each time. I asked things like, “When did/do you find joy in your business life?”, “Is this a calling?”, “What challenges does business face these days?” And it turns out- unsurprising I’m sure- we have some profound and faithful business folk in our church, my friends!
Indeed, I enjoyed myself so much, I wanted to “interview” more than those three. Alas, between the holidays and other stuff, I couldn’t get to everyone. Still, even though my assignment is done, I’d love to keep the practice going. So here’s an open invitation- I’ll buy the coffee if you want to chat with me about your business (or non-profit, or education, or government, or “family engineering”- as they call homemakers these days) pursuits and how faith plays a role. I know I’ll learn something, and maybe you will too. How often do you take time to explore those connections in depth? If you’re like most people, I’d guess infrequently. We usually talk about other things…
But we needn’t avoid the topic. Our PCCC folk and the business leaders my group met with last week shared a conviction that (at least, some of) what each did in their workaday lives held greater meaning than earning money. You know the caricature, surely, that working people suffer through their daily grind so they can finance what they really care about. I know that’s real for some. Their job isn’t some grand “calling,” but just what they can find right now that pays. And that’s totally fine. Indeed, the most important stuff for most of us- family, God, the Broncos- lays mostly beyond our employment.
Nevertheless, even for some folk who don’t like their jobs, opportunities for deeper meaning abound. Take an example I heard from several folk, none of whom claimed a great passion for their particular industry of employment. Yet situations arose where they had challenges to solve, and they enjoyed rising to meet those challenges. Or they had chances to impact others on their team, and they enjoyed helping those others do better. When asked, they claimed that these experiences brought additional satisfaction to their work, above and beyond the paycheck. And even if other parts of their jobs were numbing or brutal, there was more to the full story.
That shouldn’t surprise us. Wise theologians describe humans as “meaning making machines.” We created to not simply slog through our lives. It’s in our spiritual DNA to search for more... from our relationships with our coworkers, if possible, beyond complaining about our boss. More joy in what we do, when possible, beyond the fact it’s over when we clock out. If we can make a positive difference in another’s life- a client, customer, partner- we strive to do so, at least we can. And as Christians, who believe that every moment holds a possibility for grace, and who claim God’s loving presence throughout the week (not just Sunday), we should strive for that. We should take whatever we’re blessed to do nor and invest as much meaning into it as possible. Whether that’s sales or management, working at the local video store or being blissfully retired, God is with you and hopes you see that, not to mention help others see it too.
Anyway, you can tell I enjoyed those conversations, and I’m looking forward to…more. Seriously, call me. We’ll chat. I’m anxious to hear how God is present with you!
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Some of you already knew I was doing this, because of one advance homework assignment. I was required to identify three “business people” in my congregation, and ask them questions about their work and its relationship to faith. I’ll admit- I loved those conversations! I think they did too… We sat together over coffee for an hour each time. I asked things like, “When did/do you find joy in your business life?”, “Is this a calling?”, “What challenges does business face these days?” And it turns out- unsurprising I’m sure- we have some profound and faithful business folk in our church, my friends!
Indeed, I enjoyed myself so much, I wanted to “interview” more than those three. Alas, between the holidays and other stuff, I couldn’t get to everyone. Still, even though my assignment is done, I’d love to keep the practice going. So here’s an open invitation- I’ll buy the coffee if you want to chat with me about your business (or non-profit, or education, or government, or “family engineering”- as they call homemakers these days) pursuits and how faith plays a role. I know I’ll learn something, and maybe you will too. How often do you take time to explore those connections in depth? If you’re like most people, I’d guess infrequently. We usually talk about other things…
But we needn’t avoid the topic. Our PCCC folk and the business leaders my group met with last week shared a conviction that (at least, some of) what each did in their workaday lives held greater meaning than earning money. You know the caricature, surely, that working people suffer through their daily grind so they can finance what they really care about. I know that’s real for some. Their job isn’t some grand “calling,” but just what they can find right now that pays. And that’s totally fine. Indeed, the most important stuff for most of us- family, God, the Broncos- lays mostly beyond our employment.
Nevertheless, even for some folk who don’t like their jobs, opportunities for deeper meaning abound. Take an example I heard from several folk, none of whom claimed a great passion for their particular industry of employment. Yet situations arose where they had challenges to solve, and they enjoyed rising to meet those challenges. Or they had chances to impact others on their team, and they enjoyed helping those others do better. When asked, they claimed that these experiences brought additional satisfaction to their work, above and beyond the paycheck. And even if other parts of their jobs were numbing or brutal, there was more to the full story.
That shouldn’t surprise us. Wise theologians describe humans as “meaning making machines.” We created to not simply slog through our lives. It’s in our spiritual DNA to search for more... from our relationships with our coworkers, if possible, beyond complaining about our boss. More joy in what we do, when possible, beyond the fact it’s over when we clock out. If we can make a positive difference in another’s life- a client, customer, partner- we strive to do so, at least we can. And as Christians, who believe that every moment holds a possibility for grace, and who claim God’s loving presence throughout the week (not just Sunday), we should strive for that. We should take whatever we’re blessed to do nor and invest as much meaning into it as possible. Whether that’s sales or management, working at the local video store or being blissfully retired, God is with you and hopes you see that, not to mention help others see it too.
Anyway, you can tell I enjoyed those conversations, and I’m looking forward to…more. Seriously, call me. We’ll chat. I’m anxious to hear how God is present with you!
Grace and Peace,
Shane Read more!
Wednesday, January 8, 2014
Inner Voice…
Many of you remember Tom Benninga; a kind, gruff, dear member of our church when I first arrived. It’s been a few years since he’s passed from our care into God’s eternal peace, but I still find myself thinking about Tom every now and then. It happens each December as we use the Advent Wreath he made for us. It wasn’t expected by anyone, simply arrived one day. “Thought you’d like it,” he said. Yup.
I also remember Tom sometimes during our pastoral prayers, given something he used to tell me. In his characteristic straightforward fashion, Tom said, “Shane, something preachers just don’t understand is that God doesn’t think they’re more holy if they lower their voices during prayer.” That made me laugh. “Are you trying to say something to me Tom,” I’d ask. “Absolutely. When you pray, your voice gets softer. I can’t hear it. Speak up!”
Thankfully, this advice came my way less often over the years. I hope I took his criticism well, but do let me know when I’m not speaking fully. Unfortunately, when Tom’s health began declining, he couldn’t make it on Sundays anymore. Still, I’d stop by his home or we’d chat on the phone, and how well people heard in worship was never far from his mind. In fact, one of the last conversations we had, while he lay in a North Memorial hospital bed, was about hearing assistance tools he’d been researching. Electronic magazines lay on the sheets and floor. He cared deeply about whether folk with hearing challenges could fully participate in worship. And when they struggled, he believed, it was our church’s responsibility to try and help.
I think that’s right- Christian hospitality requires consideration for those needing help. So over the years, Al and I kept looking into various options for assisting members and guests suffering hearing decline or trouble.
But nothing seemed doable. Well, until last December. That’s when I learned of a system that channels sound from our sound system directly into the hearing aids of people in the sanctuary. It’s called a “Hearing Loop System,” and it’s been so effective for congregations that our denomination voted at our last General Assembly to encourage churches to explore the option. In fact, our region developed a grant program for Upper Midwest churches to receive financial assistance if they wanted to install one in their facilities. Our Regional Minister encouraged me to apply.
Given such high recommendations, I talked with the Board and several of you about exploring that option. It sounded intriguing to many, but being so new, we felt we’d need to try it out before investing. Graciously, someone donated money allowing us to do exactly that, which involves inviting a couple who install Hearing Loops in churches as a full-time ministry to set-up a temporary system in our sanctuary for us to demo during worship one Sunday. That way, folk can experience what it will sound like to hear directly what’s said into our microphones, rather than require sound to filter through the air and background noise into their hearing aids, which often doesn’t work. Also, they’ll bring separate devices (with headphones) for folk to use who have hearing trouble but either no hearing aids or aids that don’t work with Hearing Loop systems (it requires a telecoil or t-coil setting that is turned on; call your doctor or hearing aid company if you don’t know, but apparently most new hearing aids use this technology).
And the Sunday for this demo is this Sunday, January 12. So if you’ve had trouble hearing me or whomever during worship or use hearing aids, please make a special point to be in worship this week. Other churches have described people crying when they’ve used this system, for being able to hear finally for the first time in years. But whether it works for us at a cost we can afford will depend on the feedback we receive. And if this isn’t it, we’ll look elsewhere. Tom’s voice remains a good one to heed. If we can help people worship God better, we should. What else is more important to church?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
I also remember Tom sometimes during our pastoral prayers, given something he used to tell me. In his characteristic straightforward fashion, Tom said, “Shane, something preachers just don’t understand is that God doesn’t think they’re more holy if they lower their voices during prayer.” That made me laugh. “Are you trying to say something to me Tom,” I’d ask. “Absolutely. When you pray, your voice gets softer. I can’t hear it. Speak up!”
Thankfully, this advice came my way less often over the years. I hope I took his criticism well, but do let me know when I’m not speaking fully. Unfortunately, when Tom’s health began declining, he couldn’t make it on Sundays anymore. Still, I’d stop by his home or we’d chat on the phone, and how well people heard in worship was never far from his mind. In fact, one of the last conversations we had, while he lay in a North Memorial hospital bed, was about hearing assistance tools he’d been researching. Electronic magazines lay on the sheets and floor. He cared deeply about whether folk with hearing challenges could fully participate in worship. And when they struggled, he believed, it was our church’s responsibility to try and help.
I think that’s right- Christian hospitality requires consideration for those needing help. So over the years, Al and I kept looking into various options for assisting members and guests suffering hearing decline or trouble.
But nothing seemed doable. Well, until last December. That’s when I learned of a system that channels sound from our sound system directly into the hearing aids of people in the sanctuary. It’s called a “Hearing Loop System,” and it’s been so effective for congregations that our denomination voted at our last General Assembly to encourage churches to explore the option. In fact, our region developed a grant program for Upper Midwest churches to receive financial assistance if they wanted to install one in their facilities. Our Regional Minister encouraged me to apply.
Given such high recommendations, I talked with the Board and several of you about exploring that option. It sounded intriguing to many, but being so new, we felt we’d need to try it out before investing. Graciously, someone donated money allowing us to do exactly that, which involves inviting a couple who install Hearing Loops in churches as a full-time ministry to set-up a temporary system in our sanctuary for us to demo during worship one Sunday. That way, folk can experience what it will sound like to hear directly what’s said into our microphones, rather than require sound to filter through the air and background noise into their hearing aids, which often doesn’t work. Also, they’ll bring separate devices (with headphones) for folk to use who have hearing trouble but either no hearing aids or aids that don’t work with Hearing Loop systems (it requires a telecoil or t-coil setting that is turned on; call your doctor or hearing aid company if you don’t know, but apparently most new hearing aids use this technology).
And the Sunday for this demo is this Sunday, January 12. So if you’ve had trouble hearing me or whomever during worship or use hearing aids, please make a special point to be in worship this week. Other churches have described people crying when they’ve used this system, for being able to hear finally for the first time in years. But whether it works for us at a cost we can afford will depend on the feedback we receive. And if this isn’t it, we’ll look elsewhere. Tom’s voice remains a good one to heed. If we can help people worship God better, we should. What else is more important to church?
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Monday, December 30, 2013
Resolutions…
So one of the unintended but entirely welcome consequences of my sabbatical was the loss of something like fifteen pounds from my waist area. Chalk that up to several factors during my time in Sarajevo. Without a car, I walked its streets every day sightseeing and shopping and doing whatever else. I think my average was 2-3 miles per day. Plus, the city sits below several lovely mountains, making those aforementioned streets quite hilly. Further, I ate less food in Bosnia than I usually do here, and what I did eat was local vegetables and good bread and quality meat. Only once or twice did something processed snacks or potato chips enter my diet. Finally, I added some push-ups and sit-ups to my morning routine. The end result? A much healthier pastor, whose clothes fit noticeably easier.
Today, well, things have…what’s the word…changed. It’s funny how easy the pounds return when life reverts to previous patterns. I kept up some of the exercise when I came back; walked less but ran more. Alas, Minnesota weather has a way of dissuading many a jogger as fall turns to winter, and I’m sitting here now, anticipating Christmas, aware that my weight loss is now lost.
But no matter, I tell myself. I shall not be defeated! I did it before. I’ll do it again. A new day can arrive! To be clearer, I mean a new year has come, and with it, that brilliant tradition of annual resolutions. Mine for 2014 will certainly include a return to last summer’s svelter, smaller me.
I read recently that the Roman god after whom they named January (Janus) was sometimes depicted with two heads. One looking back, into the past. Another peering into the future. It makes sense they’d have made resolutions upon the start of his month, right? To resolve something includes reviewing where you’ve been and what’s occurred. Perhaps something didn’t go as planned, or desired, and that makes you less than fully happy. Yet a resolution implies more than insightful analysis into what was. It also presumes hope that what will be can be different, if you work for it. Without a look back, your resolution is, basically, meaningless. Without a glance ahead, you simply remain stuck. Honesty and hope. Two basic ingredients of good resolutions.
Coincidentally, or not, they’re also two ingredients to good living. The kind of full, faithful, excited life to the fullest for which Jesus was born to us (John 10:10). So this January, we’re going to think as a church together about resolutions, from God’s perspective. After all, as you read scripture, they pop up all over the place. The word we typically use for them is “promises,” but that’s essentially the same thing, right? Peter promised to stand by Jesus at his time of trial. Oops. God promised to be with Moses as he stood up to Pharaoh. Well done. Some resolutions in scripture are weird and tragic; others are the basic building blocks of faith. In whatever form they come, though, they’re important, and we’ll explore that dynamic together.
You know one thing that scripture says and that modern science agrees with about resolutions? It’s that they work best- i.e. you don’t break them!- if they’re made and shared in community. That’s one of the basic reason I attend (and work for) church, and not sit at home being spiritual alone. The accountability you all give me for my resolution to serve God helps me, in fact, serve God. So thanks for that, and for acting as community to my earlier weight loss resolution. Maybe you’ll be bold enough to share yours too…?! There’s still time. Happy New Year!
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
Today, well, things have…what’s the word…changed. It’s funny how easy the pounds return when life reverts to previous patterns. I kept up some of the exercise when I came back; walked less but ran more. Alas, Minnesota weather has a way of dissuading many a jogger as fall turns to winter, and I’m sitting here now, anticipating Christmas, aware that my weight loss is now lost.
But no matter, I tell myself. I shall not be defeated! I did it before. I’ll do it again. A new day can arrive! To be clearer, I mean a new year has come, and with it, that brilliant tradition of annual resolutions. Mine for 2014 will certainly include a return to last summer’s svelter, smaller me.
I read recently that the Roman god after whom they named January (Janus) was sometimes depicted with two heads. One looking back, into the past. Another peering into the future. It makes sense they’d have made resolutions upon the start of his month, right? To resolve something includes reviewing where you’ve been and what’s occurred. Perhaps something didn’t go as planned, or desired, and that makes you less than fully happy. Yet a resolution implies more than insightful analysis into what was. It also presumes hope that what will be can be different, if you work for it. Without a look back, your resolution is, basically, meaningless. Without a glance ahead, you simply remain stuck. Honesty and hope. Two basic ingredients of good resolutions.
Coincidentally, or not, they’re also two ingredients to good living. The kind of full, faithful, excited life to the fullest for which Jesus was born to us (John 10:10). So this January, we’re going to think as a church together about resolutions, from God’s perspective. After all, as you read scripture, they pop up all over the place. The word we typically use for them is “promises,” but that’s essentially the same thing, right? Peter promised to stand by Jesus at his time of trial. Oops. God promised to be with Moses as he stood up to Pharaoh. Well done. Some resolutions in scripture are weird and tragic; others are the basic building blocks of faith. In whatever form they come, though, they’re important, and we’ll explore that dynamic together.
You know one thing that scripture says and that modern science agrees with about resolutions? It’s that they work best- i.e. you don’t break them!- if they’re made and shared in community. That’s one of the basic reason I attend (and work for) church, and not sit at home being spiritual alone. The accountability you all give me for my resolution to serve God helps me, in fact, serve God. So thanks for that, and for acting as community to my earlier weight loss resolution. Maybe you’ll be bold enough to share yours too…?! There’s still time. Happy New Year!
Grace and Peace,
Shane
Read more!
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