One of the things we often see in the American Christian sub-culture is a tendency to link patriotism to being an American with what it means to be a Christian. This then builds a sense of entitlement and elitism within American Christians. The end result of this is that our identity as American's in many ways supercede's that of our identity as followers of Jesus and his way. When this occurs we begin to equate the blessings of our nation with the blessings of God, which then tends to cause us to look down on other people groups and nations who are not as rich or powerful and we equate that with a lack of blessing from God on them.
All of this leads to a spiritual elitism which is inevitably tied up with our standing as Americans, which then leads to a sense of us (Americans) being the new "chosen" people. Once the sense of being "chosen" settles into our being, it is very easy to look down upon and even neglect those who are of the "unchosen."
This is what the early first century Christians had to overcome. Their standing with God was wrapped around their identity as Jews being the "chosen ones" of God. This caused them to look down on others and not want God's blessings/favor to fall onto others.
So...here's is something worth discussing.
* How does our identification as Americans get in the way of how we view others?
* How does our identification as American's get in the way of our own faith?
* It took a vision to the lead disciple for the early church to change their view of others. What might it take to change us?
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
A matter of perspective
This past week I spent the week in Portland at a conference entitled, "The Child Abuse and Family Violence Summit." This conference is predominantly for law enforcement, mental health professionals, dhs/cps case workers, and advocate groups for women and children.
As I sat and listened to various presentations, the veil was lifted from my eyes to see the world that is really there but which most normal people do not want to acknowledge. Simple fact, there is a lot of really sick and twisted people out there.
So it got me thinking. What difference would it make if all people who are a part of churches had the veil pulled back and they saw the true levels of pain and suffering and hurt that is present in this world? What if they were able to fully understand the evil that is out there waiting to devour the innocent...would that change their priorities?
I think...I hope...that if this were the case Christians would quit fighting over stupid issues like the color of the carpet to install in the buildings, how messy the youth group can be from time to time, and all the stupid personality conflicts over perceived slights. I would hope that people would be so busy trying to care for the hurting and resolving injustice and battling the evil they encounter that they wouldn't have either the time nor the inclination to fight and argue over inconsequential issues like carpet or perceived slights.
really - what I am calling for is a change of perspective. As people who follow Jesus and his way, let's focus our thoughts and energy on bringing the way of the kingdom of God here on earth...as it is in heaven. And let's leave the way of the Adversary out of the doors and life of the church.
As I sat and listened to various presentations, the veil was lifted from my eyes to see the world that is really there but which most normal people do not want to acknowledge. Simple fact, there is a lot of really sick and twisted people out there.
So it got me thinking. What difference would it make if all people who are a part of churches had the veil pulled back and they saw the true levels of pain and suffering and hurt that is present in this world? What if they were able to fully understand the evil that is out there waiting to devour the innocent...would that change their priorities?
I think...I hope...that if this were the case Christians would quit fighting over stupid issues like the color of the carpet to install in the buildings, how messy the youth group can be from time to time, and all the stupid personality conflicts over perceived slights. I would hope that people would be so busy trying to care for the hurting and resolving injustice and battling the evil they encounter that they wouldn't have either the time nor the inclination to fight and argue over inconsequential issues like carpet or perceived slights.
really - what I am calling for is a change of perspective. As people who follow Jesus and his way, let's focus our thoughts and energy on bringing the way of the kingdom of God here on earth...as it is in heaven. And let's leave the way of the Adversary out of the doors and life of the church.
Monday, April 12, 2010
an issue of ownership
So...I've been thinking about the issue of ownership recently; especially as related to the ownership of a faith community (church). As I am teaching through portions of Acts, I realized that (perhaps) THE biggest problem facing faith communities today is that very few (if any) people who are a part of the church take an ownership in the life of the church.
Why is this true? For a couple of reasons I believe. One reason is that many church leaderships are structured so that there is very little ownership. It's the pastors or the elders or aunt Jenny's monkey's uncle that "own" the church, that decide things. Unfortunately I have seen far too many of those churches. Part of the reason for this, however, is the lack of ownership everyone else takes with the work and mission of the church. It is a pretty well-known statistic that 90% of the work of a church is done by 10% of the people. Additionally, 90% of the income of a church is given by 10% of the people.
Having said that, however, it would be tempting to think this is THE answer, but it would be short-sighted to do so. For the reality is, many people simply prefer to make church (even "their" church) just another thing that they do - that they are a part of. They view church as something they go to where others do things for them. In short, there is no ownership. They don't feel a responsibility to do whatever needs to be done to help the church be all it can be - so they don't serve, they don't connect, and they don't give. In fact, let's be honest. It really comes out in the issue of giving.
American Christians give less percentage of the their income than almost any other nation. And yet, we are the richest. What causes this? Maybe it's that we have a bit of Ananias in us.
In Acts 5, there is a guy named Ananias. He does something bad that shows he doesn't have any ownership in the church. He doesn't really care for the needs of others...it is all about him. So...what does it mean to have some Ananias is you?
* If you say that you believe in God and in the work of the ministry - but you give more to a restaurant or a movie theater than you do to the church - there's some Ananias in you.
* If you go and eat the donuts (which costs money) and drink the coffee ($) and use the bulletins $)and use the heat($)and the chairs and listen to the music and the teaching ($) - but you don't contribute so that your church can meet the financial needs of the church and of other people -- there's some Ananias in you.
If you or your kids have all the latest and greatest (Wii, PS, tv, etc) - but you don't take ownership in the church by getting involved, serving, and contributing financially so that your church can continue to try to reach out to people and hopefully - to meet people's needs - you have some Ananias in you.
If you talk about other people behind their backs, if you tear down rather than build up, if you discourage rather than encourage…you have some Ananias in you.
And can I say this…Having some Ananias in you - is not a good thing.
Why is this true? For a couple of reasons I believe. One reason is that many church leaderships are structured so that there is very little ownership. It's the pastors or the elders or aunt Jenny's monkey's uncle that "own" the church, that decide things. Unfortunately I have seen far too many of those churches. Part of the reason for this, however, is the lack of ownership everyone else takes with the work and mission of the church. It is a pretty well-known statistic that 90% of the work of a church is done by 10% of the people. Additionally, 90% of the income of a church is given by 10% of the people.
Having said that, however, it would be tempting to think this is THE answer, but it would be short-sighted to do so. For the reality is, many people simply prefer to make church (even "their" church) just another thing that they do - that they are a part of. They view church as something they go to where others do things for them. In short, there is no ownership. They don't feel a responsibility to do whatever needs to be done to help the church be all it can be - so they don't serve, they don't connect, and they don't give. In fact, let's be honest. It really comes out in the issue of giving.
American Christians give less percentage of the their income than almost any other nation. And yet, we are the richest. What causes this? Maybe it's that we have a bit of Ananias in us.
In Acts 5, there is a guy named Ananias. He does something bad that shows he doesn't have any ownership in the church. He doesn't really care for the needs of others...it is all about him. So...what does it mean to have some Ananias is you?
* If you say that you believe in God and in the work of the ministry - but you give more to a restaurant or a movie theater than you do to the church - there's some Ananias in you.
* If you go and eat the donuts (which costs money) and drink the coffee ($) and use the bulletins $)and use the heat($)and the chairs and listen to the music and the teaching ($) - but you don't contribute so that your church can meet the financial needs of the church and of other people -- there's some Ananias in you.
If you or your kids have all the latest and greatest (Wii, PS, tv, etc) - but you don't take ownership in the church by getting involved, serving, and contributing financially so that your church can continue to try to reach out to people and hopefully - to meet people's needs - you have some Ananias in you.
If you talk about other people behind their backs, if you tear down rather than build up, if you discourage rather than encourage…you have some Ananias in you.
And can I say this…Having some Ananias in you - is not a good thing.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
back to the judging issue
On my commute to Corvallis, I began to listen to my brother-from-another-mother...the favored son...a teacher named Rob Bell. He was talking about the issue of judging and what it is all about. One of the things that he really nailed down is that when you judge others, you are setting yourself up...above them. And in that way - it is really about control.
And the truth of that struck me. Judging others motives, actions, words, whatever...is really about control. Trying to get them to do something, be some way that fits your paradigm for their life.
As I drove, I thought about the issue of how often people try to control others and how they do it. Sometimes it is through physical force. Sometimes it is through mental and emotional manipulation - most DV situations are not physical force but emotional and psychological abuse and control - and sometimes it is through spiritual manipulation. This spiritual manipulation, like the others, often comes out in the form of judgmentalism. It is a control mechanism people use to make themselves look better, to set themselves up, to get people to respond and do what they want. It really isn't about looking out for someone. It is, plain and simply, about control.
One of the things this guy named Jesus said once was, "Do not judge or you will be judged." While there may well be a cosmic type of greater judgment implied, there is also something more basic. It's the closest Jesus gets to Karma. If you are a judgmental person, then people are going to make judgments on you. You place yourself in the role of God and judge people's actions, motives, heart...you will be a lonely person because people will make the judgment call that they simply don't want to be around you.
What Jesus is saying is that when you set yourself up over others, you are setting yourself up for a fall. You will be miserable. People won't want to be with you. People will want to stay away because you have set yourself up…to set yourself up.
So...do you want to be someone who people feel comfortable around...or someone people avoid because you are trying to control them. What is the best way? You be the judge.
And the truth of that struck me. Judging others motives, actions, words, whatever...is really about control. Trying to get them to do something, be some way that fits your paradigm for their life.
As I drove, I thought about the issue of how often people try to control others and how they do it. Sometimes it is through physical force. Sometimes it is through mental and emotional manipulation - most DV situations are not physical force but emotional and psychological abuse and control - and sometimes it is through spiritual manipulation. This spiritual manipulation, like the others, often comes out in the form of judgmentalism. It is a control mechanism people use to make themselves look better, to set themselves up, to get people to respond and do what they want. It really isn't about looking out for someone. It is, plain and simply, about control.
One of the things this guy named Jesus said once was, "Do not judge or you will be judged." While there may well be a cosmic type of greater judgment implied, there is also something more basic. It's the closest Jesus gets to Karma. If you are a judgmental person, then people are going to make judgments on you. You place yourself in the role of God and judge people's actions, motives, heart...you will be a lonely person because people will make the judgment call that they simply don't want to be around you.
What Jesus is saying is that when you set yourself up over others, you are setting yourself up for a fall. You will be miserable. People won't want to be with you. People will want to stay away because you have set yourself up…to set yourself up.
So...do you want to be someone who people feel comfortable around...or someone people avoid because you are trying to control them. What is the best way? You be the judge.
Monday, March 15, 2010
a matter of perspective
I was awoken last night by a phone call. But before I expound on that event, let me vent a little.
I am tired of being judged.
I am tired of people who think they know more than I do simply because they have a Sunday School education in the Bible. I've got a freaking Masters degree in Biblical Studies and Pastoral Ministry and can read from both the Greek and the Hebrew. Doesn't mean I'm right. Just sayin'.
I'm tired of people judging the motives behind my words...my actions. You don't know what I'm thinking, you don't know what I'm feeling. No one besides me knows what's going on in this head of mine (and sometimes I'm not sure)...but don't judge me as if you know my motives.
I'm tired of people not acting like grownups. "Have a freakin' clue that the world doesn't revolve around you!" That's what I want to say. "Get over things already, move on already." That's what I want to say. Just sayin'.
I'm tired of double standards...whether in the church or in relationships. You want me to treat you that way? Then treat me that way. That's how it should go. You want me to listen, respect, forgive, whatever? Then do the same or don't take up my space. Just sayin'.
I'm tired of really bad bands at the bars. Someone who loves them...love them by being honest. Leave the singing to those of us who can actually...I don't know...sing!
So I was awoken last night by a phone call. A good friend of mine, her dad passed away. I went out to the home to be with the family. It was obvious how much love was shared among that family. And while I still tire of all those other things... they don't ultimately matter that much when compared to real issues of life or death. In fact, calls like the one i took ought to help us all re-prioritize what is really important. For I can't think of anything more important than this simple truth. Love God. Love others.
I am tired of being judged.
I am tired of people who think they know more than I do simply because they have a Sunday School education in the Bible. I've got a freaking Masters degree in Biblical Studies and Pastoral Ministry and can read from both the Greek and the Hebrew. Doesn't mean I'm right. Just sayin'.
I'm tired of people judging the motives behind my words...my actions. You don't know what I'm thinking, you don't know what I'm feeling. No one besides me knows what's going on in this head of mine (and sometimes I'm not sure)...but don't judge me as if you know my motives.
I'm tired of people not acting like grownups. "Have a freakin' clue that the world doesn't revolve around you!" That's what I want to say. "Get over things already, move on already." That's what I want to say. Just sayin'.
I'm tired of double standards...whether in the church or in relationships. You want me to treat you that way? Then treat me that way. That's how it should go. You want me to listen, respect, forgive, whatever? Then do the same or don't take up my space. Just sayin'.
I'm tired of really bad bands at the bars. Someone who loves them...love them by being honest. Leave the singing to those of us who can actually...I don't know...sing!
So I was awoken last night by a phone call. A good friend of mine, her dad passed away. I went out to the home to be with the family. It was obvious how much love was shared among that family. And while I still tire of all those other things... they don't ultimately matter that much when compared to real issues of life or death. In fact, calls like the one i took ought to help us all re-prioritize what is really important. For I can't think of anything more important than this simple truth. Love God. Love others.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
attack of the drive-by fundamentalist
So...tearing everything down this afternoon, thinking that the ghost of Christian past was now a thing of my past, when up on the roof there arose such a clatter...I wondered to myself "Oh crap...whatsa matta!" Then what did my wondering eye gaze upon? But a tall ghostly man with a frown once upon.
He came up to me with a glint in his eye, his breath smelled like sulphur...well okay...apple pie. He spoke of his desire to correct my theology, and I thought to myself..."Oh man, I gotsta pee." I read his wordy note and I thought to myself, he truly, really, honestly believes I might be going to hell. His words were confused, his grammar atrocious, his attitude much like those who are bragadocious. His context confused, his motives unclear, I wondered aloud "Where can I find a beer."
Then out of my mind a thought as a mist, "Oh crap, I've been attacked...by a driveby fundamentalist!"
He came up to me with a glint in his eye, his breath smelled like sulphur...well okay...apple pie. He spoke of his desire to correct my theology, and I thought to myself..."Oh man, I gotsta pee." I read his wordy note and I thought to myself, he truly, really, honestly believes I might be going to hell. His words were confused, his grammar atrocious, his attitude much like those who are bragadocious. His context confused, his motives unclear, I wondered aloud "Where can I find a beer."
Then out of my mind a thought as a mist, "Oh crap, I've been attacked...by a driveby fundamentalist!"
Friday, March 12, 2010
Two questions:
1) Does anyone stand behind their products anymore?
2) Have you ever wanted to interactively shove a phone up a giant companies broad backside so deep that they have to floss to get it from being lodged between their teeth?
A little of the back story would help I suppose. I have maintained a long-standing relationship (in which I have spent thousands of dollars) with a cell phone company that rhymes with "horizon..." "Yourizon??" "Myrizon??" Well, if you still don't get it you are simply dense...but back to the story.
Said company replaced my defective phone this past week with...hold your breath now...a defective phone. Brilliant marketing philosophy isn't it. As I talked with their representative (firmly but politely I might add as he is simply a minimum wage employee following the dumba$$ policies of said company)...he informed me that I was going to have to pay the $50 replacement. Get this...pay the $50 fee to replace the defective phone they supplied me to replace the defective phone they had previously given me. Ingenious marketing scheme.
At one point, he even told me, "Well, technically it isn't our phone, it is LG's." To which I reminded him that they have their name on it, use LG as their subcontractor, and market it...thus it is your problem."
So...what has become of this? Absolutely nothing. Thus the need to vent.
I am thinking about sending in payment for my bill...in pennies. And then telling them that the debit card I usually pay for was defective, but that for $50 from them, I will restore its effectiveness.
1) Does anyone stand behind their products anymore?
2) Have you ever wanted to interactively shove a phone up a giant companies broad backside so deep that they have to floss to get it from being lodged between their teeth?
A little of the back story would help I suppose. I have maintained a long-standing relationship (in which I have spent thousands of dollars) with a cell phone company that rhymes with "horizon..." "Yourizon??" "Myrizon??" Well, if you still don't get it you are simply dense...but back to the story.
Said company replaced my defective phone this past week with...hold your breath now...a defective phone. Brilliant marketing philosophy isn't it. As I talked with their representative (firmly but politely I might add as he is simply a minimum wage employee following the dumba$$ policies of said company)...he informed me that I was going to have to pay the $50 replacement. Get this...pay the $50 fee to replace the defective phone they supplied me to replace the defective phone they had previously given me. Ingenious marketing scheme.
At one point, he even told me, "Well, technically it isn't our phone, it is LG's." To which I reminded him that they have their name on it, use LG as their subcontractor, and market it...thus it is your problem."
So...what has become of this? Absolutely nothing. Thus the need to vent.
I am thinking about sending in payment for my bill...in pennies. And then telling them that the debit card I usually pay for was defective, but that for $50 from them, I will restore its effectiveness.
Monday, March 8, 2010
a visit from the ghost of christian past
I was enjoying a nice little slumber on a warm spring-like day...when all of a sudden there appeared a scary apparition. Dressed like bad memories of my childhood climbing under the pews of the community church, one appeared to me wanting to talk about life and faith and all things in between.
I realized quite quickly, however, there wasn't a lot of talking that this ghost of christian past wanted to do, as talking connotes a back and forth dialogue. No, this "holy" specter didn't really want a discussion but more of a monologue. Thus he began to talk...and talk...and talk. As he continued on, my mind began to fog over as verses flew in and out of his speech. As I would try to drop comments into the "conversation," I quickly realized that nothing I said was being heard as instead of listening, this apparitions mind was formulating it's next movement, it's next thought...sure to be peppered with scriptural reference (with no care for context...but alas...that is the old-school christian way) and "churchy" words.
I desperately wanted to escape this bad dream...for I knew that nothing would come of it. My heart and my mind cried out, "Away from me - thou dreaded spirit. Begone and return no more for I fear what you bring." Soon - though not soon enough - I bid this unholy specter a fond farewell - and made my way out of what had once been a potentially nice dream, but that had turned into a nightmare of epic proportions as this ghost from christian past invaded my senses.
And then...suddenly...he was gone. Will he return? I have my doubts. And I have my hopes that he won't...for the ghost of christian past is a very scary thing indeed.
I realized quite quickly, however, there wasn't a lot of talking that this ghost of christian past wanted to do, as talking connotes a back and forth dialogue. No, this "holy" specter didn't really want a discussion but more of a monologue. Thus he began to talk...and talk...and talk. As he continued on, my mind began to fog over as verses flew in and out of his speech. As I would try to drop comments into the "conversation," I quickly realized that nothing I said was being heard as instead of listening, this apparitions mind was formulating it's next movement, it's next thought...sure to be peppered with scriptural reference (with no care for context...but alas...that is the old-school christian way) and "churchy" words.
I desperately wanted to escape this bad dream...for I knew that nothing would come of it. My heart and my mind cried out, "Away from me - thou dreaded spirit. Begone and return no more for I fear what you bring." Soon - though not soon enough - I bid this unholy specter a fond farewell - and made my way out of what had once been a potentially nice dream, but that had turned into a nightmare of epic proportions as this ghost from christian past invaded my senses.
And then...suddenly...he was gone. Will he return? I have my doubts. And I have my hopes that he won't...for the ghost of christian past is a very scary thing indeed.
Friday, March 5, 2010
forgiveness
I had asked a brief question about whether we really have to ask God for forgiveness anymore. Obviously, as i have gone through the teaching series that we are currently in, I do not believe that those who have been forgiven have to continuously go back for "more" forgiveness. Either his blood atoned for it...or it didn't.
So...maybe the question is more one of why we believe that we do. I believe that it is for many reasons:
* we like to control things...including our spiritualgrowthrelationshipwithgodthing.
* we feel like we have to "do" something.
* we have been infested with Catholic teaching that is so unbiblical it's not even remotely funny...esp. considering how many people fall for it.
Oh...I'm sure there are so many more reasons...but I need to head for home so may finish this later...or not...we'll see
So...maybe the question is more one of why we believe that we do. I believe that it is for many reasons:
* we like to control things...including our spiritualgrowthrelationshipwithgodthing.
* we feel like we have to "do" something.
* we have been infested with Catholic teaching that is so unbiblical it's not even remotely funny...esp. considering how many people fall for it.
Oh...I'm sure there are so many more reasons...but I need to head for home so may finish this later...or not...we'll see
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
simple question on forgiveness
If you are "in Christ," if you are a follower of Jesus - do you still have to ask god for forgiveness?
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
true gospel
So...been a long while. As we go through a series of teachings, I am amazed at how much the original gospel of Yashua (Jesus) has been altered, changed, tweaked by the church and various teachers over the years. I have to hope that its simply because of ignorance, but I have sneaky suspicions (based off history and knowing human nature) that a large part of the reason is because of control issues from various elements throughout history.
For instance...here is the truth. The Old Covenant is toast. Don't have to follow it. Toss it into the creek, followed closely by those precious 10 commandments. Realize that once you cross the line and begin to follow Jesus - you are a new creation. That means that you are not a sinner anymore. "Yeah - but what about those things I do that are sin...?" not you. not your fault (Romans 7). So...celebrate. Everything is forgiven, has been forgiven, and you don't need to ask God for forgiveness ever again.
Don't believe it? read the bible and discover for yourself what it says.
For instance...here is the truth. The Old Covenant is toast. Don't have to follow it. Toss it into the creek, followed closely by those precious 10 commandments. Realize that once you cross the line and begin to follow Jesus - you are a new creation. That means that you are not a sinner anymore. "Yeah - but what about those things I do that are sin...?" not you. not your fault (Romans 7). So...celebrate. Everything is forgiven, has been forgiven, and you don't need to ask God for forgiveness ever again.
Don't believe it? read the bible and discover for yourself what it says.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanksgiving thoughts
Just a few things I am thankful for. (in no particular order)
* Healthy and loving (most of the time) immediate family - wife - three kids.
* Healthy and loving ( most of the time) extended family that generally gets along really well
* Very good friends - you all know who you are.
* A God who does not condemn me when I am bad (often) and who loves me unconditionally.
* All the people who make up The Point...and those who someday will.
* The blessings we all have - at least those who are blessed to live in this country. no complaining today...we are blessed.
* The fact that I have never participated in the Black Friday mania.
Hope everyone has a great one.
* Healthy and loving (most of the time) immediate family - wife - three kids.
* Healthy and loving ( most of the time) extended family that generally gets along really well
* Very good friends - you all know who you are.
* A God who does not condemn me when I am bad (often) and who loves me unconditionally.
* All the people who make up The Point...and those who someday will.
* The blessings we all have - at least those who are blessed to live in this country. no complaining today...we are blessed.
* The fact that I have never participated in the Black Friday mania.
Hope everyone has a great one.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Coming off the Mountain
So I have spent the last two weeks in the mountains of Oregon chasing the elusive Wapiti. Found one named Ed who liked a good cigar so he joined us and contributed to the camp.
Now, while being in the mountains is always a good time for me as it allows me get away from everything, it is ultimately only a reprieve, an escape if you will. Life in the valley doesn't go away. It remains...whether you want it to or not.
So life in the valley - once again - is the life I must face. A church struggling to find its footing in a difficult town. A economy that is requiring me to find a job to help pay the bills...but even though I have a Masters degree, most employers would say that I am not a good fit because they can't see past their preconceived notions.
Hmm...maybe I need to find a job in the mountains!
Now, while being in the mountains is always a good time for me as it allows me get away from everything, it is ultimately only a reprieve, an escape if you will. Life in the valley doesn't go away. It remains...whether you want it to or not.
So life in the valley - once again - is the life I must face. A church struggling to find its footing in a difficult town. A economy that is requiring me to find a job to help pay the bills...but even though I have a Masters degree, most employers would say that I am not a good fit because they can't see past their preconceived notions.
Hmm...maybe I need to find a job in the mountains!
Monday, October 26, 2009
Been a while - so basic random and non-random thoughts
For a lot of reasons I have not blogged for a while. So...to get some things off my chest:
* Gotta love the DUCKS!
* OK - got that out of the way. Now on to other things...
* Now...while I love the Ducks...can't say that I always feel that way about God's creation - human beings. Especially those who claim to follow the way of Jesus. Many times in Jesus' life he had opportunities to judge people...yet he never did. Instead he said "I have not come to judge...but to save." AND YET people who claim to follow the way of Jesus have mastered the art of judging others.
* Jesus always thought the best of people and forgave people unconditionally... people who claim to follow the way of Jesus? Uhm...not so much.
* Jesus took the high road against people who attacked him and defamed his character. Followers of Jesus? Not so much...though to be fully honest, I am really trying to hold on and stay on the high road when every part of my natural being wants to rip away.
* What is it about "christians" that allows them to point out others "perceived" sins and yet COMPLETELY ignore their own sins and issues. In fact, Jesus says something along the lines of don't call out the speck in someone else's eye, while completely ignoring the FOREST (log) in your own eye. This would be a really good thing for "christians" to think about.
So - no wonder most of the unchurched world tends to want to avoid churches and Christians like the plague. They find unconditional love, forgiveness, and grace outside of the church while seeing the exact opposite inside the church. It's also no wonder why so many pastors leave the ministry.
So...why do I write this? Because its my blog and its about venting for me so that I don't vent on people. Because I want to try to be like Jesus...not just act like him.
* Gotta love the DUCKS!
* OK - got that out of the way. Now on to other things...
* Now...while I love the Ducks...can't say that I always feel that way about God's creation - human beings. Especially those who claim to follow the way of Jesus. Many times in Jesus' life he had opportunities to judge people...yet he never did. Instead he said "I have not come to judge...but to save." AND YET people who claim to follow the way of Jesus have mastered the art of judging others.
* Jesus always thought the best of people and forgave people unconditionally... people who claim to follow the way of Jesus? Uhm...not so much.
* Jesus took the high road against people who attacked him and defamed his character. Followers of Jesus? Not so much...though to be fully honest, I am really trying to hold on and stay on the high road when every part of my natural being wants to rip away.
* What is it about "christians" that allows them to point out others "perceived" sins and yet COMPLETELY ignore their own sins and issues. In fact, Jesus says something along the lines of don't call out the speck in someone else's eye, while completely ignoring the FOREST (log) in your own eye. This would be a really good thing for "christians" to think about.
So - no wonder most of the unchurched world tends to want to avoid churches and Christians like the plague. They find unconditional love, forgiveness, and grace outside of the church while seeing the exact opposite inside the church. It's also no wonder why so many pastors leave the ministry.
So...why do I write this? Because its my blog and its about venting for me so that I don't vent on people. Because I want to try to be like Jesus...not just act like him.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Fried Pastors
So…taught two weeks ago on fighting and conflict within churches. Chatted with some people I met that day, one of them a former pastor, and it got me thinking. If being a pastor is about taking care of people and guiding people…and it is supposed to be such a noble thing, then why do so many pastors ultimately burn out and drop out of ministry? Why do so many suffer from pain, and from loneliness, and from heartache, and from feelings of failure. If the church is ALL THAT…then it ought to be a joy to work as a pastor within the church. While it is for some, for many (if not most), it is anything but a joy.
So...in my opinion, something is inherently wrong with what the church has become (at least in America) when its leaders become joyless and loveless and lifeless because of having to deal with all the stuff that goes on - the fighting and the conflicts and the selfish agendas and all that other crap.
As one who has done it for 20 years - it annoys the heck out of me that it has become this way. Why is it this way? I can think of a number of reasons:
- having to deal with crap from people who are supposed to be like Jesus (cause they call themselves "Christians") but who are really nothing like Jesus.
- Having church "leaders" tell them what to do, how to do it, what to think, what to teach...when these so-called leaders basically have a Sunday School education in the Scriptures and in dealing with people.
- Having people who only have the aforementioned Sunday School education in the Scriptures, tell them how wrong they are in their interpretation of the Bible. "So...I know you can read the Greek and the Hebrew languages and that you have devoted your life to studying the backgrounds and the world of the Scriptures; and I know that you have enough schooling in theology to choke a horse...but the book I read by Tim Lahaye says differently so YOU NEED TO CHANGE!" (whatever)
- not being able to have friendships within their faith community because they are afraid of the possibility of offending someone.
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
double-barreled salutes
Not really a vent...just a funny happening from the other day:
So, Jos and I are driving near our home yesterday in my truck. In front of us is this older Accord. in front of them, an SUV of some sort. We were all in the turn lane.
The SUV begins to go and turn right, but immediately brakes because he/she notices that traffic is coming and he/she would cause an accident. Car #2 (the accord) must have been to full of coffee cause they were raring to go...so they had to slam on their brakes which was immediately followed by their slamming their hand on this thing called "the horn." Now, mind you, a little horn tap goes a long way in driving. I don't mind it at all.
Said driver of car #2 - here-after referred to as DWEEB (Dude With Emotionally Eratic Buttheadedness) didn't just tap the horn...he laid his hand upon it like the Ducks laid their hands on the Beavers this year...SMACK!!!! SMACK!!!! and then a constant - unending SSSSMMMMAAAACCKKK!!! DWEEB wouldn't quit the honking.
This, as you can imagine, caused the passenger in the SUV to let him know that he was "number 1" in their heart. Jos and I kind of chuckled, but also talked about what a DWEEB the DWEEB was being. Patience is a virtue after all.
So...the SUV turns, DWEEB turns, we turn. SUV then proceeds to go about 15 miles an hour in a 30 mile an hour zone. DWEEB drives right behind him...and because we feel like we are being left out of the fun - we tailgate the DWEEB with my truck so all he saw was a grill.
Eventually Mr. SUV turns into a parking lot, with the female passenger giving the DWEEB a double-barrel salute and DWEEB goes on...ultimately turning into our subdivision - where i get a nice view of who the DWEEB is...and honestly - he looks like one of our many Meth heads here in Eugene. Maybe an unfair characterization...but having lived here for 5 years, I am beginning to get a good eye for these kinds of things.
So...any funny stories out there???
So, Jos and I are driving near our home yesterday in my truck. In front of us is this older Accord. in front of them, an SUV of some sort. We were all in the turn lane.
The SUV begins to go and turn right, but immediately brakes because he/she notices that traffic is coming and he/she would cause an accident. Car #2 (the accord) must have been to full of coffee cause they were raring to go...so they had to slam on their brakes which was immediately followed by their slamming their hand on this thing called "the horn." Now, mind you, a little horn tap goes a long way in driving. I don't mind it at all.
Said driver of car #2 - here-after referred to as DWEEB (Dude With Emotionally Eratic Buttheadedness) didn't just tap the horn...he laid his hand upon it like the Ducks laid their hands on the Beavers this year...SMACK!!!! SMACK!!!! and then a constant - unending SSSSMMMMAAAACCKKK!!! DWEEB wouldn't quit the honking.
This, as you can imagine, caused the passenger in the SUV to let him know that he was "number 1" in their heart. Jos and I kind of chuckled, but also talked about what a DWEEB the DWEEB was being. Patience is a virtue after all.
So...the SUV turns, DWEEB turns, we turn. SUV then proceeds to go about 15 miles an hour in a 30 mile an hour zone. DWEEB drives right behind him...and because we feel like we are being left out of the fun - we tailgate the DWEEB with my truck so all he saw was a grill.
Eventually Mr. SUV turns into a parking lot, with the female passenger giving the DWEEB a double-barrel salute and DWEEB goes on...ultimately turning into our subdivision - where i get a nice view of who the DWEEB is...and honestly - he looks like one of our many Meth heads here in Eugene. Maybe an unfair characterization...but having lived here for 5 years, I am beginning to get a good eye for these kinds of things.
So...any funny stories out there???
Saturday, July 11, 2009
a little about works versus faith
Study through James and one comes upon this writing:
Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?" (James 2:14-15)
Now - it is pretty obvious to anyone who reads the New Testament once in a while that anyone who claims to follow Jesus is supposed to be involved in serving others. This is the way of Jesus and one cannot be a follower of his without living as he did. Seems straight forward enough.
Here's the problem (ie...my vent): It seems like very few Christians (at least in American Christianity) actually follow through on this need to serve others...which may explain why American Christianity is struggling in the faith department because James seems to be saying (imo) that it is these acts of service and love that will energize our faith.
Think about it. How different might the world be if followers of Jesus put as much effort into serving others as they do into their Sunday morning attendance, or their Bible studies, or their accountability groups. Don't get me wrong, those are important...but why do we focus on those so much and exclude a focus on caring for others.
Indeed, one of the things that ancient Romans historians noted was that even though they found the followers of Jesus strange in some things; they noted how they were known for loving and caring for others.
So...how different might the world, our cities, our neighborhoods, our workplaces, and our churches be if faith communities all over began to take seriously the need to "do good works."
What would it take for this to happen? What would the cost be?
Just something to think about.
In grace and understanding - John
Suppose you see a brother or sister who has no food or clothing, What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? and you say, “Good-bye and have a good day; stay warm and eat well”—but then you don’t give that person any food or clothing. What good does that do?" (James 2:14-15)
Now - it is pretty obvious to anyone who reads the New Testament once in a while that anyone who claims to follow Jesus is supposed to be involved in serving others. This is the way of Jesus and one cannot be a follower of his without living as he did. Seems straight forward enough.
Here's the problem (ie...my vent): It seems like very few Christians (at least in American Christianity) actually follow through on this need to serve others...which may explain why American Christianity is struggling in the faith department because James seems to be saying (imo) that it is these acts of service and love that will energize our faith.
Think about it. How different might the world be if followers of Jesus put as much effort into serving others as they do into their Sunday morning attendance, or their Bible studies, or their accountability groups. Don't get me wrong, those are important...but why do we focus on those so much and exclude a focus on caring for others.
Indeed, one of the things that ancient Romans historians noted was that even though they found the followers of Jesus strange in some things; they noted how they were known for loving and caring for others.
So...how different might the world, our cities, our neighborhoods, our workplaces, and our churches be if faith communities all over began to take seriously the need to "do good works."
What would it take for this to happen? What would the cost be?
Just something to think about.
In grace and understanding - John
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
A continued vent from facebook
Okay - so on fb I posted this and would like to continue the discussion:
Thinking about the paradigms within the church world...I want to consider this question: If making disciples is the primary mission of the church, then why do we use the paradigm that we do on Sunday mornings? Is it an effective means to meeting the goal or is it just an old ineffective paradigm? And if it is ineffective, what are other options/paradigms that might be more effective?
What do I mean? Well, simply put, most every church does the same thing on Sunday's. Generally it looks like this:
So - the question to consider is: Is this the best use of 1-2 hours every week in an effort to fulfill the said goal of making disciples? And if not, why do we do it this way? Is it biblical - therefore - we must? Is it cultural - therefore we do?
And if changes were to occur - what would they look like? What would take its place?
Let's get creative!
Thinking about the paradigms within the church world...I want to consider this question: If making disciples is the primary mission of the church, then why do we use the paradigm that we do on Sunday mornings? Is it an effective means to meeting the goal or is it just an old ineffective paradigm? And if it is ineffective, what are other options/paradigms that might be more effective?
What do I mean? Well, simply put, most every church does the same thing on Sunday's. Generally it looks like this:
- Opening song
- Greeting/Welcome
- Music we sing to (anywhere from 3-7 songs)
- Message (anywhere from 20-60 minutes depending on the ego...err...uhm...wordiness of the pastor/teacher)
- go home
So - the question to consider is: Is this the best use of 1-2 hours every week in an effort to fulfill the said goal of making disciples? And if not, why do we do it this way? Is it biblical - therefore - we must? Is it cultural - therefore we do?
And if changes were to occur - what would they look like? What would take its place?
Let's get creative!
An Initial Vent: Why is there no opportunity, within the church, to vent?
Venting, or expressing one's displeasure and desire for change or alterations is often seen as a negative. While it is true that venting just for the sake of venting, can be psychologically and emotionally (even spiritually) beneficial, it ultimately changes nothing; except of course for letting off steam.
Thus this blog. At times I may just vent and anyone reading (or just the air if no one reads) may just need to say, "feel better John?" However, the goal of this blog is to use our venting expressions as a means of bringing creative change, if not to the church at large, then to this local Eugene, Oregon expression.
A couple rules:
Thus this blog. At times I may just vent and anyone reading (or just the air if no one reads) may just need to say, "feel better John?" However, the goal of this blog is to use our venting expressions as a means of bringing creative change, if not to the church at large, then to this local Eugene, Oregon expression.
A couple rules:
- no foul language. (I will try hard to obey this one too.) Foul language simply isn't creative enough to belong on this blog.
- no putdowns of others opinions. (Again - be creative. saying one's idea is stupid isn't creative, its juvenile. Use creative reasoning to debate and discuss)
- no holding onto past traditions just for the sake of...well...holding onto past traditions.
- no other rules.
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