I've been thinking about my friend, Bill. I miss him. He is far away in another country doing a job he has been trained to do. He does it willingly. He does it in order to serve. He does it knowing it takes him away from his wife and children. He does it knowing that it disrupts his life - his present and his future. And he does it for me and for my family. And he does it for you and your family. As the sun sets at Camp Arifjohn in Kuwait I know that the world is safer and a better because my friend, Bill, is doing his duty.
I've been thinking about my friend, Luis. I miss him. His is far away in another country doing a job he has been trained to do. He does it willingly. He does it in order to serve. He does it knowing it takes him away from his wife and children. He does it knowing that it disrupts his life - his present and his future. And he does it for me and for my family. And he does it for you and your family. As the sun sets over Baghdad, I know the world is safer and a better place because my friend, Luis, is doing his duty.
I wear a silver band on my left wrist. It reminds me to pray for my friends Bill and Luis and my friends Ryan and Daniel - men who are serving in the National Guard but who have been called to active duty in the Gulf. To me, these are the real heroes of our day. Not the rock stars or movie stars, not the NBA playoff players or the NFL mini-camp participants. Heroes who risk it all.
Joanie and I spent about an hour this past weekend driving through a cemetery. Filled with American Flags it sought to have the public be reminded about those who sacrificed their lives in battle. I, also, wanted to remember those who serve today. Who may not be called to give the ultimate sacrifice but who, nevertheless, sacrifice their wants to serve me and you. On this Memorial Day Weekend, they are my heroes. Thank you, friends, for giving and serving. I honor you because you honor me. You are my friends.
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Saturday, May 28, 2005
Friday, May 27, 2005
Moving Day
Well, it's moving day for the vagabond Frymire duo. We will spend the day getting the car packed and ready to head for Florida and a month in the fun and sun of the Gulf Coast. A review of the month so far shows:
- Joanie has created an on-line Society of Church of God Worship for those involved in planning, preparing, and sharing worship. It is hoped that this will become a resource for Ministers of Music and lay leaders to share and learn from.
- I have begun research on a book. I have a list of about 10 books from the library on Narrative Preaching and will be taking them with me to spend time in Florida doing two things: reviewing my own preaching patterns and researching and writing a prospectus on a book. That should keep my prayer and bible study life going forward!
- We have kept up the parent responsibilities this month. Both boys have new suits (very stylish, too). Both have new glasses (Jonathan's first pair and a year's supply of disposable contacts for Joel as he prepares for life in England). Jonathan's car is up and being used by him for his job and responsibilities (we got it running and registered in the State of Indiana). I took the boys golfing together for the first time (they both had really good moments on the course). We moved Maria from one house to another (Joanie did a lot of that with the boys since I was out of town on the weekend). We have a ticket for Joel to fly to California to sing in a wedding (up in Sacramento). Every item of clothing they possess has been washed (I have to get Joanie to Florida before she will relax). The boys and girls have been well fed! The plans for the weddings are moving along smoothly.
- I have visited with two pastors and three different churches. I've attended a concert by Kim and Brian Tabor. I spent three days in Ministry Council meetings and another day working on minutes for the meeting and the Executive Committee meetings. We spent a wonderful day with Phil and Betty Fair as they took us to the Anderson Country Club for Sunday dinner after the Tabor concert. We got to see Dr. Reardon (who also came to Joel's Senior Voice Recital), HL and Sandy Baker, and Bob and Vivian Kauffman.
- I played some video games, took a couple of naps, saw some movies, read some books, shared some laughter with friends, and took some time to do things for me (without guilt). All in all, not a bad first few weeks.
On the way to Florida, I have a few goals:
- Spend the weekend with some friends in southern Indiana
- See if I can start making a dent in memorizing the Gospel of Mark (I have materials form Jerry Lucas with me)
- See if I can get gas at under a $1.50 somewhere in Georgia (It is almost under $1.90 here in Anderson). What's the price in Fresno?
- Eat at a Cracker Barrel
Modest goals but ones that can be reached? What are your goals for the week? Set some. It is amazing what God can do if you create some goals. Try it. You might like it.
Wednesday, May 25, 2005
Hospital Food and Pool Hall Ministries
I spent the day with Jim Lyons today. Jim is both the pastor of the North Anderson Church of God and the speaker on the national radio broadcast for the Church of God, CBH (Christians Broadcasting Hope). He is a former state representative for the state of Washington and a creative speaker, writer, and teacher. It was a fascinating afternoon of hearing his vision and heart for the church he pastors. He is a civic leader and national influencer for the Church. We ate lunch together. He chose the restaurant. We ate at the hospital.
Now, I confess that the choice of the restaurant was engaging for me. Not many folks have ever taken me out to lunch and gone to a hospital lunchroom as a place to find fine dining. The cafeteria was nice, clean, and about everything you would imagine for a hospital cafeteria. If you are wondering why he chose that place instead of another venue for lunch, then read on.
Philosophy is the answer. Let me explain. Jim serves as the president of the hospital board. He has served on the board for 12 years and is finishing up a term as its chair. He didn't choose the cafeteria out of some loyalty to the hospital or some need to support the dietary department. He chose it because of a philosophy. He believes in the church affecting the community. He believes in the gospel making an impact in places where the church typically is not noticed. He believes in making public ministry a ministry to the public. In other words, he is willing to eat in the hospital cafeteria because, frankly, the people coming into and out of the hospital are the very people he (we) have been called to touch with the story of Jesus Christ. And you can't tell a story to someone you haven't eaten with on their turf (Jesus proved that). So, we went to the cafeteria for a salad and a grilled cheese sandwich. It was a powerful lunch.
Some months ago I did a ride-a-long with the Fresno Police Department. During the 10 hours I spent with the officer he neither spoke to nor arrested anyone that he did not know. Now, I know that says something about the recidivism of crime in our society but it also speaks to the idea of community policing. Effective officers know their community and have a relationship with the people (good and bad) that are in the community. They prevent and solve crimes because they know who is there and what they are doing. Do you know your community that well?
How well do you know your neighbors? Your neighborhood? Tragically, how well do we know the folks in the neighborhood of the church? The sad reality is that I could not tell you the names of anyone around the church except for those who attend the church. I don't know what is going on in their lives nor what their needs are. I have never heard their story. As a pastor I am far too removed from the neighborhood that surrounds me. As Christians, we are far too removed from those to whom we need to be ministering and paying attention to.
I used to go to a pool hall and play pool at nights. I talked to people who drank beer and "lived lives of quiet desperation". I made a good friend of the owner (one that continues today). It may have been the most significant ministry I have done in the last few years. I dined with modern day Zaccheus'. I ate with sinners and people in need of Jesus Christ. I spoke to those who hadn't been to church since the last wedding or funeral in the family. I spoke of my life and of what I believed. I played pool and witnessed to others. I counseled those in need who shared their story with me. It was ministry outside the box. It was taking the gospel to the community rather than waiting for the community to come to the sanctuary to hear the gospel.
Maybe we need to get out more. Maybe we need to invite a neighbor over for coffee and cake. Maybe we need to lower the backyard fence a notch or two and see over the barriers we have erected between us. Maybe you ought to take someone to lunch. That sounds like a good idea. May I suggest the hospital cafeteria?
Now, I confess that the choice of the restaurant was engaging for me. Not many folks have ever taken me out to lunch and gone to a hospital lunchroom as a place to find fine dining. The cafeteria was nice, clean, and about everything you would imagine for a hospital cafeteria. If you are wondering why he chose that place instead of another venue for lunch, then read on.
Philosophy is the answer. Let me explain. Jim serves as the president of the hospital board. He has served on the board for 12 years and is finishing up a term as its chair. He didn't choose the cafeteria out of some loyalty to the hospital or some need to support the dietary department. He chose it because of a philosophy. He believes in the church affecting the community. He believes in the gospel making an impact in places where the church typically is not noticed. He believes in making public ministry a ministry to the public. In other words, he is willing to eat in the hospital cafeteria because, frankly, the people coming into and out of the hospital are the very people he (we) have been called to touch with the story of Jesus Christ. And you can't tell a story to someone you haven't eaten with on their turf (Jesus proved that). So, we went to the cafeteria for a salad and a grilled cheese sandwich. It was a powerful lunch.
Some months ago I did a ride-a-long with the Fresno Police Department. During the 10 hours I spent with the officer he neither spoke to nor arrested anyone that he did not know. Now, I know that says something about the recidivism of crime in our society but it also speaks to the idea of community policing. Effective officers know their community and have a relationship with the people (good and bad) that are in the community. They prevent and solve crimes because they know who is there and what they are doing. Do you know your community that well?
How well do you know your neighbors? Your neighborhood? Tragically, how well do we know the folks in the neighborhood of the church? The sad reality is that I could not tell you the names of anyone around the church except for those who attend the church. I don't know what is going on in their lives nor what their needs are. I have never heard their story. As a pastor I am far too removed from the neighborhood that surrounds me. As Christians, we are far too removed from those to whom we need to be ministering and paying attention to.
I used to go to a pool hall and play pool at nights. I talked to people who drank beer and "lived lives of quiet desperation". I made a good friend of the owner (one that continues today). It may have been the most significant ministry I have done in the last few years. I dined with modern day Zaccheus'. I ate with sinners and people in need of Jesus Christ. I spoke to those who hadn't been to church since the last wedding or funeral in the family. I spoke of my life and of what I believed. I played pool and witnessed to others. I counseled those in need who shared their story with me. It was ministry outside the box. It was taking the gospel to the community rather than waiting for the community to come to the sanctuary to hear the gospel.
Maybe we need to get out more. Maybe we need to invite a neighbor over for coffee and cake. Maybe we need to lower the backyard fence a notch or two and see over the barriers we have erected between us. Maybe you ought to take someone to lunch. That sounds like a good idea. May I suggest the hospital cafeteria?
Monday, May 23, 2005
On the Public Square
Over the course of my ministry in Fresno, the subject of relocation/expansion has come up numerous times. Even as late as our special called business meeting, the idea of what our future facility will be like was at the forefront of our discussion together. Should we relocate? How much land would we need? What would be the shape and design of the school? Should we make better use of the land we have? Could we expand our ministry and stay on our current plot of land? Where would we go? What area of the city should we be looking at for land acquisition?
Over the course of the last 100 years, where churches locate has changed dramatically. Prior to WWII, most churches were located as close to downtown as you could get. The major congregations were found somewhere in the vicinity of the town square, even on the square where possible. The big event was to go downtown to the farmer’s market or to go shopping or to go to church.
When the Greatest Generation returned from WWII, the expansion of housing created the suburbs. Churches looking to relocate looked to suburbia because that’s where the people were. Churches located on side streets rather than Main Street because they wanted to be in the neighborhood. First Church sought to be part of the wave of suburbia when it relocated far north of the city (our present location). Look around the city. Where are churches located? How many churches are on Shaw Ave.? How many on Herndon? The answer is few, if any, because churches looked to locate in neighborhoods not main thoroughfares. Businesses flocked to Blackstone Ave. – but not churches.
Enter the 70’s. Suddenly, the dynamic of American social life changed. Downtown shops were closing; cities were trying to figure out how to do urban renewal; people went to the Mall to do their shopping; neighborhoods became fluid; we became a more mobile society; people associated themselves with a church not in their neighborhood. Churches, like People’s Church, grew up less concerned with being in a neighborhood and more concerned with access and visibility. Now the issue became parking (in most modern church facilities, half the area they develop is for parking) and how close one was to a main thoroughfare. Accessibility became the buzzword for relocation of church facilities.
Now comes the 21st Century. We need a fresh look at who we are and what we do. I suggest that we look to be on the Public Square again. Today, the public square means to be where the people go not where they live. Imagine if we had been involved in purchasing land at River Park and were located where Target is or one of the big chain stores in that massive public area. Imagine if we could build on a spot and partner with Starbucks or a Christian Bookstore or a Fitness Center. Imagine being part of a complex that people came to for lots of reasons. You could have a major entrance called, “The Public Square” and inside, an enclosed walkway to take you to “the church @ first”, First Academy, First Steps, shopping, Starbucks or McDonalds. Once again, the church could reinsert itself into society rather than isolate itself from society. There is a Church of God in Casper, Wyoming that purchased a K-Mart that went out of business in a huge shopping area. They converted the loading dock, storage area into a sanctuary. They had wonderful lighting, sound conversions, and comfortable seating. The floor of the store became classrooms, a day care, church offices, and a fellowship hall. Rather than being out in the neighborhood, they were on the Public Square, where the people were already going. Since moving to the site, they have nearly doubled in size.
Think about it. It’s a new idea.
Over the course of the last 100 years, where churches locate has changed dramatically. Prior to WWII, most churches were located as close to downtown as you could get. The major congregations were found somewhere in the vicinity of the town square, even on the square where possible. The big event was to go downtown to the farmer’s market or to go shopping or to go to church.
When the Greatest Generation returned from WWII, the expansion of housing created the suburbs. Churches looking to relocate looked to suburbia because that’s where the people were. Churches located on side streets rather than Main Street because they wanted to be in the neighborhood. First Church sought to be part of the wave of suburbia when it relocated far north of the city (our present location). Look around the city. Where are churches located? How many churches are on Shaw Ave.? How many on Herndon? The answer is few, if any, because churches looked to locate in neighborhoods not main thoroughfares. Businesses flocked to Blackstone Ave. – but not churches.
Enter the 70’s. Suddenly, the dynamic of American social life changed. Downtown shops were closing; cities were trying to figure out how to do urban renewal; people went to the Mall to do their shopping; neighborhoods became fluid; we became a more mobile society; people associated themselves with a church not in their neighborhood. Churches, like People’s Church, grew up less concerned with being in a neighborhood and more concerned with access and visibility. Now the issue became parking (in most modern church facilities, half the area they develop is for parking) and how close one was to a main thoroughfare. Accessibility became the buzzword for relocation of church facilities.
Now comes the 21st Century. We need a fresh look at who we are and what we do. I suggest that we look to be on the Public Square again. Today, the public square means to be where the people go not where they live. Imagine if we had been involved in purchasing land at River Park and were located where Target is or one of the big chain stores in that massive public area. Imagine if we could build on a spot and partner with Starbucks or a Christian Bookstore or a Fitness Center. Imagine being part of a complex that people came to for lots of reasons. You could have a major entrance called, “The Public Square” and inside, an enclosed walkway to take you to “the church @ first”, First Academy, First Steps, shopping, Starbucks or McDonalds. Once again, the church could reinsert itself into society rather than isolate itself from society. There is a Church of God in Casper, Wyoming that purchased a K-Mart that went out of business in a huge shopping area. They converted the loading dock, storage area into a sanctuary. They had wonderful lighting, sound conversions, and comfortable seating. The floor of the store became classrooms, a day care, church offices, and a fellowship hall. Rather than being out in the neighborhood, they were on the Public Square, where the people were already going. Since moving to the site, they have nearly doubled in size.
Think about it. It’s a new idea.
Friday, May 20, 2005
Hollywood and Theology
I've seen two movies since I left California. I saw "Crash" and "Star Wars III". They are both interesting films. Let's do a little "Hollywood and Theology" on them together. Here goes:
- Both films have a similar theme. In "Crash", a film about lives intersecting in L.A., everyone in the film is a victim of bad choices, horrible consequences, racial bigotry, and racial prejudice. In "Star Wars" the two main characters follow the same path of bad choices, making decisions on emotions, mistrust, jealousy, and a lust for power.
- In each case the characters tend to want to make bad choices for good reasons. They all seem able to justify their actions based on some mistaken ideal that they can do morally unethical things but for some good, justifiable reason and it will all come out fine in the end. Of course, nothing of the sort happens in either film. Everyone ends up in pain, heartache, death, and morally bankrupt.
- Hollywood seems to have a firm grasp of evil. Both films herald the painful experience of what the Bible calls "sin" and what Hollywood calls "drama". Everyone is affected by the sin of others - even the morally good characters (though you are hard pressed to find a moral character in "Crash"). What you cannot find is a solution to the dilemma of sin. In "Crash", the movie ends with almost all the situations unresolved. Everyone is in pain and sin is "crashing" in on everyone. In "Star Wars" the heroine dies, the hero turns to the dark side, and the moral warriors are all murdered (except two who are forced to go into hiding). Even the next three episodes of the saga suggest that the only way good will ever triumph is if human beings will stand up and reject evil and live better lives as moral beings. In other words, if we will just live better, things will be better. Not much of a solution if you track the development of human beings from Adam and Eve to Saddam Hussein.
- What Hollywood never seems to get is that there is a solution to the problem of sin. I don't expect every film to be "The Passion of the Christ" and talk about how Jesus has saved us from our sins, but I do expect that there would be some character, any character that might reflect the truth that God is greater than evil and that there is a way to live without giving in to the "dark side" by depending on God. Granted, the Jedi Knights of the Star Wars movies come close to this reality. But nowhere do they acknowledge the reality of God or the dependence on divine power. It is only "the Force" - a far more Eastern religious concept than that of the Bible.
I wish that Hollywood could learn to reflect in a positive way some of faith expressions of millions and millions of Americans who regularly attend church, synagogue or some other place where they worship God and acknowledge that, not only is there a Supreme Being, but that He loves us and by His grace and mercy we can be forgiven of sin and follow Him. That would be refreshing. When was the last time you saw a movie with a pastor in the movie (or a TV show for that matter) where he/she was portrayed in a positive light? How many Christians have you seen portrayed in a positive light on Friends, Fraiser, Everybody Loves Raymond, ER, Law and Order, CSI, Will and Grace, or any "reality" show? For that matter, have you ever seen an episode of any of these where there was someone on the show that was a Christian? In contrast, how many homosexual characters have been portrayed on these shows? How many people have had children out of wedlock? How many affairs have been portrayed? I'm not suggesting that these things don't happen or that they shouldn't be portrayed in some form or fashion. What I am saying is that the portrayals are out of balance, pc viewings of the latest social experiments, reflections of a liberal theology and bias that fears Christians, belittles our faith, and dismisses all of us who attend Church regularly and believe in the power of Jesus Christ to change a life.
A Lost Art
I have been very lax at writing my blog this week. I will chalk that up to my anniversary and some travel time - it surely could not be laziness!
I have been reflecting on the value of conversation recently. This week has been full of conversations around the table, in the living room, or at the restaurant. I notice we tend to do too little of that in Fresno. We stand around and talk, but we rarely visit in one another's homes or go out with friends to a restaurant together just to have a friendly conversation. Here's my week so far:
I have been reflecting on the value of conversation recently. This week has been full of conversations around the table, in the living room, or at the restaurant. I notice we tend to do too little of that in Fresno. We stand around and talk, but we rarely visit in one another's homes or go out with friends to a restaurant together just to have a friendly conversation. Here's my week so far:
- Spent Monday night with friends from New Albany. Had a cookout together with about 12 people. Spent several hours (about 4) talking - getting our lives up to date.
- Spent Tuesday night at a wonderful restaurant in Indianapolis dining out for our anniversary with Jonathan and Maria. We then met Joel and Shafali at another restaurant for dessert (Joel had a class that night and couldn't make the dinner). All in all, we spent about 4-5 hours together.
- Wednesday night went to the 12:01 showing of "Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith" with 9 other friends. Cheered when Yoda went off on the Sith.
- Thursday night we all went over to Kevin and Kristi's house for dinner. Ron and Kathy (Kevin's parents) are there for the month and she fixed tacos for everyone. We went over about 6:00 and left after 11:00. We laughed and had a blast catching up on the past and sharing about our lives.
- Tonight (Friday night) we will go over to the Fine Arts Center and hear Joel in concert as he performs his Senior Recital.
I like to be involved with people. Maybe one of the most refreshing things about the Sabbatical so far has been the renewed enjoyment of being with others. In ministry, you spend so much time with others but are rarely "off the clock" as pastor. You yearn for time when you can just be with one another without having to do business. I saw that in action a few days ago when I went golfing with Ron Duncan. I have served on the Ministries Council with Ron and now share in his ministry as the General Director for Church of God Ministries. I urged him to go golfing with me as a way of getting away from his responsibilities. But sure enough, we hadn't played more than a few holes when I was bringing up Ministry Council business. Fortunately, he didn't respond to it and I caught what a foolish thing I was doing and quickly changed the subject (back to my terrible golf game, I'm sure). He needed to spend time away from work and just in fellowship together. So did I. It's amazing how difficult it can be to just share together without an agenda. Thank God we found a way. And thank you, God, for reminding me that there are other things to talk about other than "business".
My advice? Go out and spend some time with someone talking and getting to know them better. Do it over a meal. Go over someone's home. Avoid going to a movie (unless you plan to go out before or after the film). Play a game, eat a meal together, or do something that allows you to enjoy some conversation. Conversation shouldn't become a lost art.
Tuesday, May 17, 2005
30th Anniversary
Today, May 17th, is our 30th Wedding Anniversary. I love my wife and am honored that she agreed to be my wife and has made a home for our family for the last 30 years. My only hope is that we are but half way toward the fullness of our shared life together. Joanie, I love you and I am proud to place that sentiment on this internet site so that the whole may know of my love for you.
Monday, May 16, 2005
The Perfect Worship Service
Sunday I attended the largest church service I have ever attended at a local church. Southeast Christian Church in Louisville is one of the nation's largest protestant churches, averaging more than 18,000 in worship. They have five services each weekend including a very contemporary, alternative service on Saturday night and a Spanish speaking church service on Sunday morning. The two regular Sunday morning worship services are held in a 9,100 seat sanctuary.
I arrived nearly half an hour early for service. As I exited the interstate, I noticed several things. First, it was the first church I had ever attended that created a traffic jam on an interstate highway. Police had set up cones and directed traffic off the interstate and into the church parking lot. In addition to dozens of officers, there were dozens of volunteers working the parking lot. The facility is only four years old, but the attendance is so large that they provide shuttle buses from the parking areas to the sanctuary. I found a spot near the church facility and walked to the front entrance. The facility is so large that the entryway looks like a convention center entrance. Inside, the "narthex" area is enormous. My friend, Lisa, said that when she attended a service there the lobby reminded her of being in an airplane terminal. That is a pretty apt description. On one wall was a long counter area (like a ticketing area in an airport terminal) with people behind the counter dealing with deaf ministry and disabilities information, security concerns, counseling needs, and other issues. A large, circular information booth was in the center of the room. However, this huge, open space was there to accommodate the fellowship of the congregation before and after services. I would estimate the space to be larger than the Fresno sanctuary - probably twice as large. At the end of the space was the entranceway into the sanctuary. There were three entry points. One walked you directly onto the main level. Another was the elevators that would take you to the upper level. Still another was a series of escalators that would take you to one of the two upper levels. At the other end of the space was the entryway to the bookstore (open seven days a week), fellowship hall, and tape ministry. Entrance to the Christian education wing was on the second level. Trust me, the place was huge. Their web site says that they have 770,000 square feet under roof. That's right, 770,000 square feet. It takes 9 full time and 3 part time people and 45 volunteers just to clean the complex. They employ over 250 people.
The service was perfect. A 200 voice choir, 30 piece orchestra, 5 baptisms, communion served every Sunday, two solos, a 5 member worship team, and media screens everywhere. Bob Russell, who has been pastor for over 40 years and has taken the church from a few hundred to over 18,000 was the preacher (he is one of three preachers and this was the only Sunday this month he would be preaching). His sermon was direct, powerful and wonderful. Dozens of people responded at the end of the sermon to meet the pastor. Some for spiritual counseling and many to join the church. It was timed to the minute and flawlessly shared. I sat in a theater seat in a full row about 10-15 rows from the front. I was greeted by ushers, greeters, and three people on the row where I sat. It was friendly and warm. I took it all in.
If there was one point that bothered me it wasn't the size or the fellowship. It wasn't the service or the preaching. I kept looking at this 200 voice choir and 30 piece orchestra and could count less than 10 people of color. I realized that there was an entire Spanish speaking service separate from the services in the sanctuary, but the absence of color was very, very noticeable. They had dozens of ushers serving communion and greeting attendees - some were even teenagers, which I found refreshing. However, none of the 50 ushers who served communion was of color. None were women. The service had people of color attending but not leading. It was a very white crowd - a very affluent white crowd. I realize that with Rick Warren's highly influential "The Purpose Driven Church" and the Church Growth Movement's teaching on the homogeneous unit principle, that the most effective way to grow a church is to identify a specific group (educationally, socially, economically, and racially) and seek to draw them into the church. It has been proven to work in thousands of churches. I just don't find it to be a biblical model that I can agree with and work under. I missed the diversity of the community. I missed the influence and involvement of all of God's children. The service was perfect, the facility was impressive, and the crowd was enormous . . . and I left feeling something was missing. God was certainly there. The Spirit was unquestionably at work. Jesus Christ was being honored. Everyone was welcome. But not everyone came. Somehow we, the church, must move beyond not only our sanctuary walls, but also our segregated conclaves.
Ephesians 4:26-29:
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise
I arrived nearly half an hour early for service. As I exited the interstate, I noticed several things. First, it was the first church I had ever attended that created a traffic jam on an interstate highway. Police had set up cones and directed traffic off the interstate and into the church parking lot. In addition to dozens of officers, there were dozens of volunteers working the parking lot. The facility is only four years old, but the attendance is so large that they provide shuttle buses from the parking areas to the sanctuary. I found a spot near the church facility and walked to the front entrance. The facility is so large that the entryway looks like a convention center entrance. Inside, the "narthex" area is enormous. My friend, Lisa, said that when she attended a service there the lobby reminded her of being in an airplane terminal. That is a pretty apt description. On one wall was a long counter area (like a ticketing area in an airport terminal) with people behind the counter dealing with deaf ministry and disabilities information, security concerns, counseling needs, and other issues. A large, circular information booth was in the center of the room. However, this huge, open space was there to accommodate the fellowship of the congregation before and after services. I would estimate the space to be larger than the Fresno sanctuary - probably twice as large. At the end of the space was the entranceway into the sanctuary. There were three entry points. One walked you directly onto the main level. Another was the elevators that would take you to the upper level. Still another was a series of escalators that would take you to one of the two upper levels. At the other end of the space was the entryway to the bookstore (open seven days a week), fellowship hall, and tape ministry. Entrance to the Christian education wing was on the second level. Trust me, the place was huge. Their web site says that they have 770,000 square feet under roof. That's right, 770,000 square feet. It takes 9 full time and 3 part time people and 45 volunteers just to clean the complex. They employ over 250 people.
The service was perfect. A 200 voice choir, 30 piece orchestra, 5 baptisms, communion served every Sunday, two solos, a 5 member worship team, and media screens everywhere. Bob Russell, who has been pastor for over 40 years and has taken the church from a few hundred to over 18,000 was the preacher (he is one of three preachers and this was the only Sunday this month he would be preaching). His sermon was direct, powerful and wonderful. Dozens of people responded at the end of the sermon to meet the pastor. Some for spiritual counseling and many to join the church. It was timed to the minute and flawlessly shared. I sat in a theater seat in a full row about 10-15 rows from the front. I was greeted by ushers, greeters, and three people on the row where I sat. It was friendly and warm. I took it all in.
If there was one point that bothered me it wasn't the size or the fellowship. It wasn't the service or the preaching. I kept looking at this 200 voice choir and 30 piece orchestra and could count less than 10 people of color. I realized that there was an entire Spanish speaking service separate from the services in the sanctuary, but the absence of color was very, very noticeable. They had dozens of ushers serving communion and greeting attendees - some were even teenagers, which I found refreshing. However, none of the 50 ushers who served communion was of color. None were women. The service had people of color attending but not leading. It was a very white crowd - a very affluent white crowd. I realize that with Rick Warren's highly influential "The Purpose Driven Church" and the Church Growth Movement's teaching on the homogeneous unit principle, that the most effective way to grow a church is to identify a specific group (educationally, socially, economically, and racially) and seek to draw them into the church. It has been proven to work in thousands of churches. I just don't find it to be a biblical model that I can agree with and work under. I missed the diversity of the community. I missed the influence and involvement of all of God's children. The service was perfect, the facility was impressive, and the crowd was enormous . . . and I left feeling something was missing. God was certainly there. The Spirit was unquestionably at work. Jesus Christ was being honored. Everyone was welcome. But not everyone came. Somehow we, the church, must move beyond not only our sanctuary walls, but also our segregated conclaves.
Ephesians 4:26-29:
You are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, slave nor free, male nor female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus. If you belong to Christ, then you are Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise
Five Real Friends
I have been thinking about friendships. I have spent the weekend in New Albany with Eric and Lisa, dear friends over many years. They have been kind and gracious not only to open up their home to me, but to open up their hearts to me as well.
"This communicating of a man's self to his friend works two contrary effects; for it redoubleth joys, and cutteth griefs in half. "
Francis Bacon
I have already been able to spend time with some friends during this Sabbatical. Renewing old friendships and meaningful relationships has a healing affect on the soul. A few of the friendships we have renewed:
"This communicating of a man's self to his friend works two contrary effects; for it redoubleth joys, and cutteth griefs in half. "
Francis Bacon
I have already been able to spend time with some friends during this Sabbatical. Renewing old friendships and meaningful relationships has a healing affect on the soul. A few of the friendships we have renewed:
- We drove down to Uncle Ray's funeral with Marna. While she and Joanie are family (cousins), Marna and Steve have been close friends over many years.
- I saw Phil and Betty at graduation. We intend to get together for dinner or to spend an evening together
- I saw Dr. Reardon and got a chance to talk to him. How I love that man and what he has meant to me.
- At Baccalaureate I saw Dr. Massey. He has been my mentor, confidant and guide or more ways than he knows.
- This week our family will go over and have dinner with Kevin and Kristi Stiffler (and his family and parents). What a joy to see Kevin graduate from seminary and to spend time talking in his office the other day. He is a true friend.
- I received an email from Jerry and Linda Webb to come visit them during the Sabbatical. We have spent many days and nights together sharing our hearts and lives. He is a good friend.
"My father always used to say that when you die, if you've got five real friends, you've had a great life."
Lee Iacocca
Even before I left I had an opportunity to share with friends. Friends came by the office to wish me well. Friends prayed over me at an altar before we left. New friendships were being formed with Doyle coming on staff and the instant rapport we had together. Cards, notes, emails, phone calls - all designed to encourage Joanie and I. Friendships may be rare but they are even more priceless.
- Before I left for Sabbatical I bought some new golf clubs from a friend. The clubs were nice, the friendship is better.
- I stayed up last night talking with Eric until 2:30 in the morning. We shared of life, the Bible, old hurts and new healings, hopes and dreams. The kind of sharing you can only do with a friend you love and trust and who loves you and trusts you.
- Tonight, several old friends from New Albany are coming over for a cookout. We will laugh and share together; get caught up on family news; we will remember fondly times shared and friendships made. I am reminded of that great line from my favorite movie, "It's A Wonderful Life" - "Remember, George: no man is a failure who has friends."
After five decades of living, it's good to know that my life has not been a failure.
Wednesday, May 11, 2005
Slipping the Surley Bonds of Earth
Yesterday, Joanie and I went to the funeral of her Uncle Ray. A 79 yr. Old barber from Hamilton, Ohio, Uncle Ray had a massive heart attack and died last Saturday - just about the time Joel was graduating from college. Dad and Tina, up for the graduation exercises, headed over to Ohio to be with the family. Yesterday, Dad conducted the funeral of his brother. It was the second funeral he has officiated at in the past year. The other funeral was for his older brother, Clyde, just about a year ago.
My father-in-law is the finest pastor I have ever known. He has never considered himself a great preacher. However, you wouldn't have known it yesterday. Dad did the finest job I have ever heard at a funeral. His sermon was powerful, comforting, direct, and heart-tugging. For me, the most powerful moment was when he talked about the last time his surviving brothers were all together. It had taken place just a few days before Uncle Clyde had passed away. Clyde had made the decision not to go on dialysis. Too may physical problems had plagued him over recent years and dialysis would neither prolong his life for long nor give him a better quality of life. Dad called his brothers and three of them were able to come down to Florida to visit Clyde. They all came at the same time and drove over to Leesburg to spend an afternoon with their brother.
As they arrived at his home, Clyde's wife left the home and said, "This is your day together." So, one afternoon, the Williams Boys spent the day reminiscing about the past, remembering their lives, and celebrating more than 7 decades of life together as brothers. These quiet, gentle men spoke of things that only brothers speak of together. They laughed and shared as they rarely do. Then came this incredible moment when Dad, taking the reigns of the conversation, spoke to Clyde of his decision. "Are you at peace with the decision?" "Do you understand what it means to refuse the treatment?" Clyde both knew the outcome of his decision and was at peace with the ending of his life. He was ready. Then, in an extraordinary moment of family love, the Williams Boys said a private goodbye to one of their own. They spoke to Clyde individually. They expressed their love and appreciation for "one of their own". They spoke together for one, final moment. Then, with Dad leading, they prayed for Clyde and for each other. And then the boys departed, never to be together again this side of heaven.
I don't know how or when I will die. It may be some long, drawn out illness like Clyde's or some sudden, immediate heart attack like Ray's. But, if I had control over how my end would come, I would love to have the opportunity to say goodbye to those I love. To spend an afternoon with my brothers.; to spend a day telling my boys how deeply I love them and how proud I am to have been their Dad; to hold the hand of my lovely, sweet wife and share all those memories we have spent a lifetime creating; then, to let go, and "slip the surley bonds of earth" while rushing with abandonment into the arms of Jesus. If I had my choice, I think that's how I would do it. But even if it happens another way, I hope that all those whom I love will know this one great truth, their love has made the journey of life precious.
My father-in-law is the finest pastor I have ever known. He has never considered himself a great preacher. However, you wouldn't have known it yesterday. Dad did the finest job I have ever heard at a funeral. His sermon was powerful, comforting, direct, and heart-tugging. For me, the most powerful moment was when he talked about the last time his surviving brothers were all together. It had taken place just a few days before Uncle Clyde had passed away. Clyde had made the decision not to go on dialysis. Too may physical problems had plagued him over recent years and dialysis would neither prolong his life for long nor give him a better quality of life. Dad called his brothers and three of them were able to come down to Florida to visit Clyde. They all came at the same time and drove over to Leesburg to spend an afternoon with their brother.
As they arrived at his home, Clyde's wife left the home and said, "This is your day together." So, one afternoon, the Williams Boys spent the day reminiscing about the past, remembering their lives, and celebrating more than 7 decades of life together as brothers. These quiet, gentle men spoke of things that only brothers speak of together. They laughed and shared as they rarely do. Then came this incredible moment when Dad, taking the reigns of the conversation, spoke to Clyde of his decision. "Are you at peace with the decision?" "Do you understand what it means to refuse the treatment?" Clyde both knew the outcome of his decision and was at peace with the ending of his life. He was ready. Then, in an extraordinary moment of family love, the Williams Boys said a private goodbye to one of their own. They spoke to Clyde individually. They expressed their love and appreciation for "one of their own". They spoke together for one, final moment. Then, with Dad leading, they prayed for Clyde and for each other. And then the boys departed, never to be together again this side of heaven.
I don't know how or when I will die. It may be some long, drawn out illness like Clyde's or some sudden, immediate heart attack like Ray's. But, if I had control over how my end would come, I would love to have the opportunity to say goodbye to those I love. To spend an afternoon with my brothers.; to spend a day telling my boys how deeply I love them and how proud I am to have been their Dad; to hold the hand of my lovely, sweet wife and share all those memories we have spent a lifetime creating; then, to let go, and "slip the surley bonds of earth" while rushing with abandonment into the arms of Jesus. If I had my choice, I think that's how I would do it. But even if it happens another way, I hope that all those whom I love will know this one great truth, their love has made the journey of life precious.
Monday, May 9, 2005
Reflections on a Church Service
We all went to church yesterday at the church that Jonathan and Maria attend here in Anderson. Parkview Church of the Nazarene is a small congregation (around 125) with a great big heart. They have embraced Maria over the years she has attended and, now, have embraced Jonathan as he has become a regular part of their congregation. Yesterday was my first experience there and I wanted to share some things about their service.
1. They were extremely participative. The choir song (which was thrilling) was a song of testimony for the choir. They had raised hands, intense emotion on their faces, and joy in their voices as they witnessed to the glorious power of God. They went through a time of prayer at the altar about 3/4 of the way through the service. Again, it was participative. People prayed together out loud, there was an intensity and ferver in their verbal expressions of prayer, many partipated (the altars were full), and one man rededicated his life to Christ after being away from the church (he had come to church that Sunday only at the request of his Mother for Mother's Day).
I believe that all true worship is participative not observational. The Church always gets into dangerous territory when it reduces worship to an observational event. When we come to church to watch the musicians perform and to watch the pastor preach, we are in grave danger. Worship is the one event in our entertainment laden culture that cannot become something we observe. Worship is either participatory or it is not worship.
2. The service was visually powerful. So much of what you experienced in the service was visual - from Pastor Jeff's pictoral, sermon illustrations to the visual experience of the choir's testimony. Joanie and I have often argued about the content of a worship service. She tends to focus on the words of worship (songs, lyrics, transitions) whereas I tend to see a worship service (drama, interactive exchange, setting, transitions). While neither of us is right about how and what worship is, neither of us is wrong either. Maybe that's why we make such a good team in planning a worship event.
I believe that we are the last generation that will only hear worship. With the advancement of technology and a continual bombardment in our society of visual images, preaching will continue to evolve into a much more visual experience than just an aural experience. We must learn to see a sermon as well as hear it.
3. The church was small but alive. We have become a generation of churchgoers who worship at megachurch centers. Like the Wal-Mart's and shopping malls we drive to for our everyday needs, churches have become larger and more diverse. I wonder, however, if the trend is shifting. We have been so number conscious in the church over the last four decades that larger equaled better. Now I wonder if the trend is not toward healthy churches rather than larger churches. Parkview is about half the size of Fresno First. It pales in comparison to East Side Church of God just down the street. However, it is alive, vibrant, and healthy. You don't have to be large to be healthy.
I believe that a healthy church is the most important tool in discipleship, evangelism, and ministry. Size is a matter of Holy Spirit giftedness and calling. Healthy congregations is a matter of Holy Spirit leadership and obedience. In the end, a healthy, growing congregation can do a great deal to fulfill the leading of the Holy Spirit. But before it grows, a church must become a healthy church.
1. They were extremely participative. The choir song (which was thrilling) was a song of testimony for the choir. They had raised hands, intense emotion on their faces, and joy in their voices as they witnessed to the glorious power of God. They went through a time of prayer at the altar about 3/4 of the way through the service. Again, it was participative. People prayed together out loud, there was an intensity and ferver in their verbal expressions of prayer, many partipated (the altars were full), and one man rededicated his life to Christ after being away from the church (he had come to church that Sunday only at the request of his Mother for Mother's Day).
I believe that all true worship is participative not observational. The Church always gets into dangerous territory when it reduces worship to an observational event. When we come to church to watch the musicians perform and to watch the pastor preach, we are in grave danger. Worship is the one event in our entertainment laden culture that cannot become something we observe. Worship is either participatory or it is not worship.
2. The service was visually powerful. So much of what you experienced in the service was visual - from Pastor Jeff's pictoral, sermon illustrations to the visual experience of the choir's testimony. Joanie and I have often argued about the content of a worship service. She tends to focus on the words of worship (songs, lyrics, transitions) whereas I tend to see a worship service (drama, interactive exchange, setting, transitions). While neither of us is right about how and what worship is, neither of us is wrong either. Maybe that's why we make such a good team in planning a worship event.
I believe that we are the last generation that will only hear worship. With the advancement of technology and a continual bombardment in our society of visual images, preaching will continue to evolve into a much more visual experience than just an aural experience. We must learn to see a sermon as well as hear it.
3. The church was small but alive. We have become a generation of churchgoers who worship at megachurch centers. Like the Wal-Mart's and shopping malls we drive to for our everyday needs, churches have become larger and more diverse. I wonder, however, if the trend is shifting. We have been so number conscious in the church over the last four decades that larger equaled better. Now I wonder if the trend is not toward healthy churches rather than larger churches. Parkview is about half the size of Fresno First. It pales in comparison to East Side Church of God just down the street. However, it is alive, vibrant, and healthy. You don't have to be large to be healthy.
I believe that a healthy church is the most important tool in discipleship, evangelism, and ministry. Size is a matter of Holy Spirit giftedness and calling. Healthy congregations is a matter of Holy Spirit leadership and obedience. In the end, a healthy, growing congregation can do a great deal to fulfill the leading of the Holy Spirit. But before it grows, a church must become a healthy church.
Sunday, May 8, 2005
Milestones for a Father
Milestones.
Points along the way that help to give you perspective on where you are on the journey of life.
Milestones are places that help you not to get lost or to find your way home.
Milestones are the places you find when you are going around in circles and it helps you to stop, get off the merry go round, and go where you to need to go.
Not every one has the same reference point; not all milestones point you in a specific direction; no milestone can be set without some sense of sacrifice and determination.
I graduated from college 30 years ago (1975). I knew it was an accomplishment. I knew it was a significant moment in my life. But, to be honest, I didn't know it was a milestone until after I had walked across the platform and received my degree (actually, it was a blank cover - my degree was still awaiting the grading of a final class I had finished the day before). As I went back to my seat, my father suddenly stood up. He had waited for hours in line in order to be the first in line to get a seat. The seat he wanted was one on the aisle along the path the graduates took when returning to their seats after receiving their degree. He wanted that seat so that he could do what he did at that moment. He stood to his feet in front of all those graduates and guests and shook my hand. He told me congratulations and that he was proud of me. It was only then that I realized that graduation was a milestone. Not as much for me, at that moment, as it was for him.
My father never finished high school. Growing up in the depression, work was the milestone, not college or schooling. You learned a trade, got a job, and helped to support the family. It was noble. It was admirable. But my father was also one of the "Greatest Generation" that went to war and won a world war. When it was over, my Dad came back home, started a family, got a job, and changed his goals and priorities. This son of a railroad conductor became a pipe fitter and maintenance supervisor at a Mobil Oil refinery. And he told his boys that he would do everything he could to make sure that they would go to college. It became his dream. And I became the milestone. The last of his three boys was getting a degree. His work; his dream; his goal; his milestone was complete. In less than five years he would be dead. And now, whenever I look at the diploma hanging on my office wall, I think of that milestone in his life.
Fast forward thirty years to yesterday, May 7, 2005. I spent the afternoon in the Ward Fieldhouse at Anderson University. There on the platform walked four people who have been important in my life. Kevin Stiffler, my friend and compatriot, received his Master of Divinity degree. My two future daughters-in-law, Maria (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and Shafali (Bachelor of Arts in Theater) both received their degrees from Anderson University. But all of that paled in comparison to one young man who walked across the platform. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater. He is my youngest son, Joel. Now, all three of my boys have graduated from college (all at Anderson University - along with both Joanie and me and Joanie's father, John Williams) and all have received their degrees. And when Joel had walked off the platform and was walking down the aisle to return to his seat, a 52 year old father with a tear in his eye and joy in his heart, stood up from an aisle seat and hugged his son and told him, "I'm proud of you". It was a milestone. More mine than Joel's.
Points along the way that help to give you perspective on where you are on the journey of life.
Milestones are places that help you not to get lost or to find your way home.
Milestones are the places you find when you are going around in circles and it helps you to stop, get off the merry go round, and go where you to need to go.
Not every one has the same reference point; not all milestones point you in a specific direction; no milestone can be set without some sense of sacrifice and determination.
I graduated from college 30 years ago (1975). I knew it was an accomplishment. I knew it was a significant moment in my life. But, to be honest, I didn't know it was a milestone until after I had walked across the platform and received my degree (actually, it was a blank cover - my degree was still awaiting the grading of a final class I had finished the day before). As I went back to my seat, my father suddenly stood up. He had waited for hours in line in order to be the first in line to get a seat. The seat he wanted was one on the aisle along the path the graduates took when returning to their seats after receiving their degree. He wanted that seat so that he could do what he did at that moment. He stood to his feet in front of all those graduates and guests and shook my hand. He told me congratulations and that he was proud of me. It was only then that I realized that graduation was a milestone. Not as much for me, at that moment, as it was for him.
My father never finished high school. Growing up in the depression, work was the milestone, not college or schooling. You learned a trade, got a job, and helped to support the family. It was noble. It was admirable. But my father was also one of the "Greatest Generation" that went to war and won a world war. When it was over, my Dad came back home, started a family, got a job, and changed his goals and priorities. This son of a railroad conductor became a pipe fitter and maintenance supervisor at a Mobil Oil refinery. And he told his boys that he would do everything he could to make sure that they would go to college. It became his dream. And I became the milestone. The last of his three boys was getting a degree. His work; his dream; his goal; his milestone was complete. In less than five years he would be dead. And now, whenever I look at the diploma hanging on my office wall, I think of that milestone in his life.
Fast forward thirty years to yesterday, May 7, 2005. I spent the afternoon in the Ward Fieldhouse at Anderson University. There on the platform walked four people who have been important in my life. Kevin Stiffler, my friend and compatriot, received his Master of Divinity degree. My two future daughters-in-law, Maria (Bachelor of Science in Nursing) and Shafali (Bachelor of Arts in Theater) both received their degrees from Anderson University. But all of that paled in comparison to one young man who walked across the platform. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Theater. He is my youngest son, Joel. Now, all three of my boys have graduated from college (all at Anderson University - along with both Joanie and me and Joanie's father, John Williams) and all have received their degrees. And when Joel had walked off the platform and was walking down the aisle to return to his seat, a 52 year old father with a tear in his eye and joy in his heart, stood up from an aisle seat and hugged his son and told him, "I'm proud of you". It was a milestone. More mine than Joel's.
Friday, May 6, 2005
Blessed Beyond Measure
As a father, being involved in your children’s lives is both an incredible responsibility and an awesome privilege. Over the past two nights we have been invited to be a part of some of the most important, celebrative moments in the lives of these two fine young men God has blessed us with. Now, to the uninitiated, the first event won’t seem very important or memorable, but I guarantee you it is part of a ritual that has been a significant part of their collegiate experience.
On Wednesday night about 25 fellow classmates involved in the Avanti Booster Club raided the house to capture both Jonathan and Joel. As part of their Club ritual, they tied up the boys and “kidnapped” them to a local park area near their home. They tied them up to a tree and dumped all manor of foul smelling things on them – to the delight of all the club members and, eventually (after listening to the boys talk about it after the event was fully completed and they had showered and cleaned up), to both Jonathan and Joel. Joanie and I were in the house when they were captured and went out to the park for the treeing. As we drove back with the boys and their fiancées, we reflected on a night more than 30 years ago when I was “treed” and celebrated for becoming engaged to Joanie. In fact, the guys from the club waited an extra day for Joanie and I to be there. What an honor to be there and to be considered by all these college guys to be present for this ritual. Not many other parents have ever been invited to such an event (I know of none). As part of the transition from college life to adulthood, it was an important moment. Even the boys were glad we were there. What an honor.
The next night, Joel asked us to help him with one of the most special nights of his life. Joanie went out and bought some candles and flowers to help create a special mood. He asked the two of us to go out to an area just off campus called University Condominiums. Located on the property is a small, man-made lake. Just off to the side of the lake is a small gazebo that has become the “special place” for the two of them. With the engagement ring placed in a unique jewelry box (it was in the design of a yellow rose), Joel walked Shafali to the gazebo. Fortunately, she suspected nothing. Seeing the candles and the flowers, she looked at the man she loves and he, bending down on one knee, confessed his love for her. “I cannot give you security or promise you great wealth, but I can give you the only thing of value I have. I can give you my love. I can give you my self. Will you marry me?” With tears in her eyes and joy in her spirit, Shafali committed to marry this exceptional young man. They make a dynamic team.
Now, both my boys are officially engaged. Jonathan and Maria were engaged at Christmas. Jonathan proposed to her on Christmas Day, giving her the engagement ring as the final present to be opened that day. Joanie and I sat on the couch in tears as our son moved from the adolescence of dating to the adulthood of marriage. What an incredible moment to witness. He and Maria make a powerful couple for God. Now, with the events of last night, we have witnessed the engagement of both our boys. This summer, I will help to officiate at both of their weddings. I have three boys, and I will have baptized and performed the wedding ceremonies for all three. As a father, as a pastor, as a Christian, I am blessed beyond measure.
On Wednesday night about 25 fellow classmates involved in the Avanti Booster Club raided the house to capture both Jonathan and Joel. As part of their Club ritual, they tied up the boys and “kidnapped” them to a local park area near their home. They tied them up to a tree and dumped all manor of foul smelling things on them – to the delight of all the club members and, eventually (after listening to the boys talk about it after the event was fully completed and they had showered and cleaned up), to both Jonathan and Joel. Joanie and I were in the house when they were captured and went out to the park for the treeing. As we drove back with the boys and their fiancées, we reflected on a night more than 30 years ago when I was “treed” and celebrated for becoming engaged to Joanie. In fact, the guys from the club waited an extra day for Joanie and I to be there. What an honor to be there and to be considered by all these college guys to be present for this ritual. Not many other parents have ever been invited to such an event (I know of none). As part of the transition from college life to adulthood, it was an important moment. Even the boys were glad we were there. What an honor.
The next night, Joel asked us to help him with one of the most special nights of his life. Joanie went out and bought some candles and flowers to help create a special mood. He asked the two of us to go out to an area just off campus called University Condominiums. Located on the property is a small, man-made lake. Just off to the side of the lake is a small gazebo that has become the “special place” for the two of them. With the engagement ring placed in a unique jewelry box (it was in the design of a yellow rose), Joel walked Shafali to the gazebo. Fortunately, she suspected nothing. Seeing the candles and the flowers, she looked at the man she loves and he, bending down on one knee, confessed his love for her. “I cannot give you security or promise you great wealth, but I can give you the only thing of value I have. I can give you my love. I can give you my self. Will you marry me?” With tears in her eyes and joy in her spirit, Shafali committed to marry this exceptional young man. They make a dynamic team.
Now, both my boys are officially engaged. Jonathan and Maria were engaged at Christmas. Jonathan proposed to her on Christmas Day, giving her the engagement ring as the final present to be opened that day. Joanie and I sat on the couch in tears as our son moved from the adolescence of dating to the adulthood of marriage. What an incredible moment to witness. He and Maria make a powerful couple for God. Now, with the events of last night, we have witnessed the engagement of both our boys. This summer, I will help to officiate at both of their weddings. I have three boys, and I will have baptized and performed the wedding ceremonies for all three. As a father, as a pastor, as a Christian, I am blessed beyond measure.
What To Do With Your Voice
Over the last two days I have spent 14 hours in meetings and look forward (I say that rather tongue in cheek) to another 8 hours tomorrow. In the midst of complicated issues and difficult decisions, we spend time discussing together the ideas set before us in these meetings. It is a challenging and, sometimes, grinding emotional process. I feel such a burden to do well at this task because it does have an affect on this Movement that I love and to whom I am so very grateful. It is not an ideal way to begin a Sabbatical but it certainly highlights the need for such an experience at this point in my life and ministry.
Following a particularly difficult issue and discussion, one of my friends and mentors in leadership, challenged me on an issue regarding how issues get discussed in the group. He suggested that the best use of my verbal skills would be to ask questions that help clarify rather than using questions to persuade others to a point of view. I am struggling with how I feel about that.
What is our responsibility as leaders? Do we use our voices to clarify or do we use them to persuade? Maybe this is not an either or situation. One of the most important roles of a leader is to make sure that everyone is on the same page in terms of information. If you do not know what the real issue is or what the actual parameters are concerning a leadership item, you have failed to bring everyone along with you. Clarifying is an art. So often, leaders make things more complicated than they should be. For instance, one of the arts of preaching is to take things that are complicated and make them understandable. Clarifying the issue is bringing light to that which is either confusing or complicated. A good leader makes sure that he/she uses their voice to help others understand what he/she already understands.
In the same way, it is hard for me to conceptualize not using my voice to persuade. Persuasion is a huge part of the pastoral role. A pulpit is designed to be a persuasive tool used under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Persuasion is a powerful tool. Directors, authors, teachers, salesclerks, politicians, and anybody working on commission try to persuade you to their ideas, products or positions. Preachers are no different, other than they do so to a higher purpose than a sales report or an election result. We attempt to persuade others to see the reality of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the need for faith in Christ. All of us, whether in pulpit or pew, use our voices to persuade others to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior (or, at least, we should).
Maybe my friend was right concerning the issue he spoke to me about. But in the larger picture, I believe we use our voices both to clarify and persuade.
Following a particularly difficult issue and discussion, one of my friends and mentors in leadership, challenged me on an issue regarding how issues get discussed in the group. He suggested that the best use of my verbal skills would be to ask questions that help clarify rather than using questions to persuade others to a point of view. I am struggling with how I feel about that.
What is our responsibility as leaders? Do we use our voices to clarify or do we use them to persuade? Maybe this is not an either or situation. One of the most important roles of a leader is to make sure that everyone is on the same page in terms of information. If you do not know what the real issue is or what the actual parameters are concerning a leadership item, you have failed to bring everyone along with you. Clarifying is an art. So often, leaders make things more complicated than they should be. For instance, one of the arts of preaching is to take things that are complicated and make them understandable. Clarifying the issue is bringing light to that which is either confusing or complicated. A good leader makes sure that he/she uses their voice to help others understand what he/she already understands.
In the same way, it is hard for me to conceptualize not using my voice to persuade. Persuasion is a huge part of the pastoral role. A pulpit is designed to be a persuasive tool used under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Persuasion is a powerful tool. Directors, authors, teachers, salesclerks, politicians, and anybody working on commission try to persuade you to their ideas, products or positions. Preachers are no different, other than they do so to a higher purpose than a sales report or an election result. We attempt to persuade others to see the reality of the gospel of Jesus Christ and the need for faith in Christ. All of us, whether in pulpit or pew, use our voices to persuade others to receive Jesus Christ as their Savior (or, at least, we should).
Maybe my friend was right concerning the issue he spoke to me about. But in the larger picture, I believe we use our voices both to clarify and persuade.
Wednesday, May 4, 2005
Tuesday, May 3, 2005
Anticipation is making me late . . .
Carly Simon wrote a very popular song a few years back entitled, "Anticipation". Some of the words go:
"We can never know about the days to come
But we think about them anyway
And I wonder if I'm really with you now
Or just chasing after some finer day
Anticipation, Anticipation
Is making me late
Is keeping me waiting"
Driving for four days the miles go by without much excitement. However, coming in from St. Louis today, the drive (only about 5 hours) was the longest of the whole trip. Why? Anticipation. Joanie and I realize how fortunate we are to have boys who love us and a family that enjoys being together. The anticipation of being together is so very exciting. And now, with Maria and Shafali becoming part of the family, our excitement grew with every mile as we neared our destination. In spite of the slowness of how time passed as we drove along Route 70, the anticipation of seeing our boys and our girls was wonderful, exciting, and meaningful.
Anticipation. Do you feel that kind of excitement as you anticipate Sunday morning? Do the hours seem to grow longer as you anticipate the excitement of meeting God in worship? I remember a few years ago using a clip from the movie, "Forrest Gump". We viewed the scene where Forrest sees Lt. Dan sitting on the dock - Forrest's joy and excitement at seeing his good friend so near and his anticipation at getting to the dock to see him. He jumps into the water, leaving the boat behind and swims to shore to see Lt. Dan. As he finally climbs onto the dock, his boat crashes into the other end of the dock area behind him. Forrest, unfazed, looks at Lt. Dan and says, "That's my boat!". When we get that excited about being in the presence of God, worship will take on a deeper, more powerful dimension. All it really takes is . . . anticipation.
"We can never know about the days to come
But we think about them anyway
And I wonder if I'm really with you now
Or just chasing after some finer day
Anticipation, Anticipation
Is making me late
Is keeping me waiting"
Driving for four days the miles go by without much excitement. However, coming in from St. Louis today, the drive (only about 5 hours) was the longest of the whole trip. Why? Anticipation. Joanie and I realize how fortunate we are to have boys who love us and a family that enjoys being together. The anticipation of being together is so very exciting. And now, with Maria and Shafali becoming part of the family, our excitement grew with every mile as we neared our destination. In spite of the slowness of how time passed as we drove along Route 70, the anticipation of seeing our boys and our girls was wonderful, exciting, and meaningful.
Anticipation. Do you feel that kind of excitement as you anticipate Sunday morning? Do the hours seem to grow longer as you anticipate the excitement of meeting God in worship? I remember a few years ago using a clip from the movie, "Forrest Gump". We viewed the scene where Forrest sees Lt. Dan sitting on the dock - Forrest's joy and excitement at seeing his good friend so near and his anticipation at getting to the dock to see him. He jumps into the water, leaving the boat behind and swims to shore to see Lt. Dan. As he finally climbs onto the dock, his boat crashes into the other end of the dock area behind him. Forrest, unfazed, looks at Lt. Dan and says, "That's my boat!". When we get that excited about being in the presence of God, worship will take on a deeper, more powerful dimension. All it really takes is . . . anticipation.
Monday, May 2, 2005
Snowstorms, Strangers, and Worshipping Together
When you pack for a summer sabbatical and you start out across the country on April 30th, the last thing you expect to see in Amarillo, Tx. on May 2nd is snow. That's right, snow. I woke up this morning and turned on the T.V. at the hotel to see what the weather report was going to be for the next leg on our trip (it was supposed to be raining in and around Oklahoma City) when they came on the Weather Channel and said, "It's snowing in Amarillo!". Joanie, who hasn't been in a snowstorm for at least 11 years, jumped out of bed and ran to the window. Sure enough, there was 4+ inches outside. Our car was covered with snow. The ground was covered with snow. I have one long sleeve shirt with me. It's supposed to be warm!
However, I discovered some things about God as we got ready to venture out in the snow. The hotel offered a free hot breakfast bar for all their guests. Joanie and I went to the dining area and there we engaged in joyously spirited conversations with 3 strangers (a lady from Colorado, a couple on their way to Arizona, and one of the hotel employees) about the amazing weather conditions. I went to the front desk to ask for something to clear off the snow from my car and told the front desk attendant that we were from Fresno and not quite prepared for this weather. I found out that she had been born and raised to the age of 11 in Fresno. We chatted about her background and I shared with her about the church. It was a nice conversation. She gave me a broom to get the snow off the car. As I returned the broom to the front desk I ran into a couple from Georgia that was checking out of the hotel. He eyed my broom and I told him that the front desk had given it to me. We chatted for a while and then went in and had a nice conversation with the girl from Fresno.
As we got in the car to drive down the highway, I realized that I had been in conversation with at least 7 different people that morning, strangers who had been drawn together by the common bond of the uniqueness of a Spring snowstorm on the 2nd of May. Folks, that is what worship does for believing community. Hundreds of primarily "strangers" show up at First Church each Sunday. We are drawn together by the the common bond of a desire to experience God. We enter into conversations with one another and with God as a way of expressing this unique and joyous experience. And in the midst of our conversation of prayer, singing, sharing, giving, receiving, and studying the Word together we are drawn together into a dialogue that would never take place except that we have the common experience of openness toward God. If snowstorms can do that to perfect stangers, imagine what God can do to those who come together weekly and share with one another the desire to grow deeper in the spiritual life.
However, I discovered some things about God as we got ready to venture out in the snow. The hotel offered a free hot breakfast bar for all their guests. Joanie and I went to the dining area and there we engaged in joyously spirited conversations with 3 strangers (a lady from Colorado, a couple on their way to Arizona, and one of the hotel employees) about the amazing weather conditions. I went to the front desk to ask for something to clear off the snow from my car and told the front desk attendant that we were from Fresno and not quite prepared for this weather. I found out that she had been born and raised to the age of 11 in Fresno. We chatted about her background and I shared with her about the church. It was a nice conversation. She gave me a broom to get the snow off the car. As I returned the broom to the front desk I ran into a couple from Georgia that was checking out of the hotel. He eyed my broom and I told him that the front desk had given it to me. We chatted for a while and then went in and had a nice conversation with the girl from Fresno.
As we got in the car to drive down the highway, I realized that I had been in conversation with at least 7 different people that morning, strangers who had been drawn together by the common bond of the uniqueness of a Spring snowstorm on the 2nd of May. Folks, that is what worship does for believing community. Hundreds of primarily "strangers" show up at First Church each Sunday. We are drawn together by the the common bond of a desire to experience God. We enter into conversations with one another and with God as a way of expressing this unique and joyous experience. And in the midst of our conversation of prayer, singing, sharing, giving, receiving, and studying the Word together we are drawn together into a dialogue that would never take place except that we have the common experience of openness toward God. If snowstorms can do that to perfect stangers, imagine what God can do to those who come together weekly and share with one another the desire to grow deeper in the spiritual life.
The Holy Spirit and the Wolf
Traveling across country in a car is such a unique experience, especially with all of today’s technology. Driving through New Mexico today along the High Desert a wolf ran across the highway right in front of us. Not only did Joanie and I get to enjoy that experience, but since we were on the phone with Jonathan and Maria in Anderson, we got to share it with them as well. Imagine, being hundreds of miles apart but sharing the same experience together. It was as if we were in the same place.
A little earlier in the day I called Doyle to let him know I was praying for him. Since it was his first Sunday in the pulpit, I wanted to encourage him in the process and let him know that I was praying for him. A few hours later he called to share the joy he felt in his heart at the response the congregation gave to the preaching of the Word. He mentioned that there were many who had come to the altar to alter their lives in accordance with the prompting of the Holy Spirit. There on the phone, hundreds of miles from one another, we shared the joy at the same experience.
This is the reality of living in and with the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Spirit is able to bring us together across the miles to share in the same experience of life and joy. I think of Bill Smith, Ryan Smith, Luis Ruiz, and Daniel Campos who are thousands of miles away in the Middle East. And yet, every time I have shared a phone call from Bill or Luis or received an email from Ryan I have experienced a shared moment of joy and love across the miles. The Holy Spirit makes all this possible.
Parents have asked us how we have managed with the boys going to college in Indiana. I’m sure Sherry Smith, Jeri Ruiz, and Myrna Campos have been asked frequently how they cope with the long separation and distance. God helps. The Holy Spirit bridges the gap and allows us to experience the same joys across the miles.
A little earlier in the day I called Doyle to let him know I was praying for him. Since it was his first Sunday in the pulpit, I wanted to encourage him in the process and let him know that I was praying for him. A few hours later he called to share the joy he felt in his heart at the response the congregation gave to the preaching of the Word. He mentioned that there were many who had come to the altar to alter their lives in accordance with the prompting of the Holy Spirit. There on the phone, hundreds of miles from one another, we shared the joy at the same experience.
This is the reality of living in and with the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Spirit is able to bring us together across the miles to share in the same experience of life and joy. I think of Bill Smith, Ryan Smith, Luis Ruiz, and Daniel Campos who are thousands of miles away in the Middle East. And yet, every time I have shared a phone call from Bill or Luis or received an email from Ryan I have experienced a shared moment of joy and love across the miles. The Holy Spirit makes all this possible.
Parents have asked us how we have managed with the boys going to college in Indiana. I’m sure Sherry Smith, Jeri Ruiz, and Myrna Campos have been asked frequently how they cope with the long separation and distance. God helps. The Holy Spirit bridges the gap and allows us to experience the same joys across the miles.
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