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Sight

Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

This is a continuation of my last post that was getting too long. I had so much more to say, but word limit was working against me. Sort of like preaching on Sunday, you know? Anyway…

I was thrilled Jane came Sunday and found a welcome reception. She also said some things to her friend that leads me to believe she will want to talk to me some day. That will totally cool! I look forward to that day, even though I know she has some tough questions. Yes, prayers would be appreciated.

BACK. TO. TOPIC.

In all honesty, I don’t know why people want to have piercings and tats. The piercings look like they hurt and like most people I am not into that kind of pain. I can’t say I desire a tat, especially at my age. My one comment is what happens when the guppy becomes a whale? BUT WHO AM I TO JUDGE WHAT THEY CHOOSE TO DO, WHICH IN MY MIND, INVOLVES A GRAY AREA. Now granted “cutting” is something totally different, and I do care about that. What I do want people to know is this:

WITH. OR. WITHOUT. ‘BODY. DESIGNS.” THEY. ARE. WORTH. A. LOT. IN. GOD’S. EYES.

I read a story recently in Mud and the Masterpiece by John Burke about pro baseball player Matt White. He had an aunt who struggled to make ends meet for years, living on 50 acres of property in Massachusetts. Due to failing health, she was forced to sell. As an act of kindness he bought her property for the appraised value of $50,000. While exploring the land to see about building a house, he discovered some outcroppings of stone ledges.

Matt contacted a geologist, who surveyed the land and informed Matt this stone had commercial value for patios and landscapes and could actually be sold for $100 a ton…and he had about 24 million tons on the land. Appraised surface value=$50,000; beneath the surface = over $2 billion! (pp.64-65)

I think that is called “Unless I really like baseball I think I’ll retire.” Sort of reminds me of Jesus’ story about the man who found a hidden treasure and sold all he had to buy the land. Or the parable of the pearl of great price.

The point of this story and the point of this post and the last one is this: Jesus looked out at the masses of people and looked beneath the surface. He saw something of great value. If we are going to be like Jesus to others, we must see what Jesus sees beneath the surface that’s of infinite worth to God. We need to see the hidden treasure and pearl of great price, whether “doctored” in piercings and tats; multi-layered makeup and multi-colored hair; physically fit or overweight; or any other outward appearance.

SEE PEOPLE AS JESUS SEES THEM!!

How are you at this? Do you have trouble getting past the obvious outward signs to see inside?

Posted in Christian living, Church, Jesus, Just Wondering, Miscellaneous, Scripture look | 18 Responses »

Worth

Tuesday, May 14th, 2013

I like to schedule my posts to come “live” at 8:00 every night, but life got in the way yesterday and that didn’t happen. I am a firm believer though in no luck, no random events, no chance. While getting ready this morning, I was thinking about this post. An idea came into my head that wouldn’t let me go.

This past Sunday, as you know, was Mother’s Day. Like most churches we had our share of “mom visitors.” You know, those people who come to appease mom. I’d like to tell you about one of them. I am going to call her Jane (not her real name). Several months ago I wrote a post about a local girl who works at a local restaurant who looks, shall we say…different. One day a pastor came to her station and told her she was going to hell because she had piercings. I was absolutely flabbergasted. Keep in mind I had never met this girl, but maybe once in passing. She had never darkened our church door (or any that I know of). I was absolutely, totally embarrassed, not to say a tad bit angry. Who gave him the right to say that, especially to someone he doesn’t even know? He doesn’t know her story. He doesn’t know her as a person, except for someone who is doing her job waiting on an arrogant, judgmental pastor.

Anyway, I told the person who related this to me to let Jane know not every pastor feels that way. For more of my thoughts on a subject like this, check out this post. What is really cool is Jane came to OVCF this past Sunday. For the first time. Pierced. Multi-colored hair. Dressed differently, but not offensively. And emotional. I found out part of it was the video I showed. Part of it was the story I told at the beginning. But a big part of it was people actually talked to her. Told her they were glad she was here. She was blown away people would actually treat her as a person. In fact, as she came out of the ladies room talking with her friend, one of our ladies walked by and said, “Nice hair.”

“Jane, that was a momma with three kids.”

“You’re kidding me.”

“Nope.”

I cannot begin to tell you how good I felt after hearing this conversation. How “proud” I was of “my” people. (I know they are HIS but give me some leeway here). Sort of makes me smile inside knowing that some people have gotten the No Perfect People Allowed thought that has been preached for 8 years.

Yes Jane, you and your friends are welcome at OVCF. No Jane, your piercings and tats will not send you to hell, no matter what some legalistic, fundamentalist pastor tells you. If Jesus could open His arms to a woman caught in adultery, He will certainly open His arms to you.

Do you have any thoughts? (Post continued tomorrow)

Posted in Christian living, Church, Just Wondering, Legalism, Opinion | 31 Responses »

Circle

Tuesday, May 7th, 2013

Looks like I started either a firestorm or a good discussion in my last post. Comments varied in response-from yeah to nay. Thanks to everyone who responded and helped carry on a lively discussion. For those who did not have a chance to join in, it isn’t too late. If you choose to respond, I will still post your thoughts.

BUT LET’S TAKE A DIFFERENT LOOK AT THE CHURCH IN THIS POST

I finished Craveable this morning (Tuesday). I went back in my journal and saw I started on Feb.18. It is designed to last 40 days. I think I shattered that record to pieces. For the math challenged, that comes to a total of 78 days. ‘Course I am math-challenged so you may want to check it. I chose to read and journal only on Monday through Thursday so that’s my excuse.

The last few days/chapters have been dealing with the church (the local body). Our effect on the culture. What we are doing to make a difference. In chapter 36 Artie said, “A craveable church is able to communicate something relevant. What I mean by relevant is something that is useful in everyday life, understandable, and valuable.” Strange: nothing there about cussing in the pulpit, smoke & lights, and other extras we deem necessary to be “relevant.” Communicate the truth of God, connect it to the world, and watch what happens!

But this last chapter is a jewel: Our influence comes down to our circle of friends. God puts people into our lives; so does Satan. God puts them there to stand with us, push us, and help us; the enemy has other designs. While these people are put into our lives, we choose who will be with us. They become the circle. It is proven the longer we are a Christ-follower, the less amount of unbelieving friends we will have. Here is my question:

IF THAT IS TRUE (AND IT IS), HOW IN THE WORLD CAN WE HAVE THE INFLUENCE WE ~~NEED~~ ARE SUPPOSED TO HAVE?

Strangely, I am not the only one asking this. Kari addressed the same question in her blog. Such a fine line we travel. A great example is Joshua and Caleb. They were voted down because of the “bad report” people who were able to sway the crowd. As Artie says, “Keep those ‘bad report’ people out of your circle!” I couldn’t agree more. It is way too easy to be ~~influenced~~ defeated by bad seed planted in your garden. Walk away from them. “Only the right people will help me accomplish all God has for me to do.” (p.237)

How do you decide your circle? Are you pretty picky?

The book: Like all books it had its highs and lows. It is hard to sustain a constant “Good” over the long haul. Some of it seemed repetitive. But all in all, I would suggest it as a supplement to your daily (or semi-daily) reading.

Posted in Christian living, Church, Family, Friendship, Just Wondering | 37 Responses »

Membership

Monday, May 6th, 2013

I WANT YOUR OPINION!!

That is my first thought. As such there is no right and wrong. There has been talk for quite awhile about the pluses and minuses of church membership. In fact, there are some pretty passionate people on both sides of the argument.

Some who fight tooth and nail for membership in church.

Some who fight tooth and nail for no membership in a church.

Frankly, I’m not sure where I stand on the issue any more. Nor am I convinced it really matters. I see value in both sides. I see the importance of “belonging” to something, of being able to call it your own. I also see the value of not being tied down to a certain denomination or circle of thought.

I would think any thinking person would not choose to become a part of something-either seriously or as an observer-if he/she was not on board with what makes that organization (in this case a church) tick. Or what drew that person initially.

What got me thinking about this was this devotion by Greg Laurie. I totally understand what Greg is talking about. I still struggle some with the feelings he mentions when I know someone who could be there isn’t, but those who have every reason to stay home show up. It never ceases to amaze me how those who live the farthest away will often be the ones who show up on a snowy day. I also have to admit being one who for years preached against those who skipped out and didn’t make church-going a priority. Those legalistic days are gone (thanks be to God!).

But the case before you is not whether church attendance is/should be “mandatory,” but still how important is church membership? I really do want to know your opinion/thoughts. As I see it there is no biblical directive, unless I am missing something. Please feel free to express your opinion and back it up with Scripture if you can. If not, state it anyway. How does your church feel about membership? Does it require it for participation in say, a worship team? Leadership role? Volunteer ministry?

Please let me know your thoughts. I am running stuff through my mind at this time and have no answer. Thanks. For more on this, check out this post.

Posted in Church, Just Wondering, Miscellaneous, Opinion | 46 Responses »

Celebrity

Sunday, May 5th, 2013

Our culture seems to hang a lot on what a celebrity thinks or says. Some of it might be good; some no so good.

Mediocre authors gained immediate audiences when Oprah’s Book Club Selection featured his/her book. It was like “immediate sensation-time” for the author. Garnering an unprecedented readership from her endorsement was like sausage gravy on a “regular” biscuit.

Advertising knows the value of an athlete with celebrity status. Shoes. Clothing.

Bedding, but since when does a celebrity-named sheet fit better than a generic one?

Even grills received attention when it said George Foreman in front of it.

Celebrity status reaches the church as well. We have celebrity TV evangelists…celebrity pastors. Seems like they were regulars on Larry King Live and are regulars on other talk shows. Their books sell in stratospheric numbers. Media hangs on to their words and films their actions (good and bad). Literally thousands flock to their church buildings for “Christianity Lite” sermons. Their TV shows are beamed all over the world. They wear thousand dollar suits or outfits; have their own private planes; million dollar mansions, etc Their word is like gold. (Can I throw up now?)

Some pastors are “flash-in-the-pan” celebrities. They give off a flash and then burn out before our very eyes. Some are ~~innovative~~ ~~creative~~ attention-hungry to the point of ridiculous. Now, please understand I am not talking about all. Some have shown staying power by their commitment to biblical integrity and a desire to stay out of the spotlight. Some have shown a quality that many of the celebrity people wouldn’t dream of having.

AND WHAT IF, WHAT IF, THERE WAS A SUDDEN INFUSION OF THIS MIRACLE QUALITY?

What quality is that? Well, here…let me use a quote I read by Louie Giglio tell you:

If Jesus rode in low on a donkey, then we should go ahead and get down off our high horse.

That quality? HUMILITY

One of the most piercing chapters of The Catalyst Leader by Brad Lomenick is the chapter titled Principled. Brad gives three elements of being principled. His #1 element is Humility. WOW! Talk about a chapter/section that leaves no stone unturned! As Rick Warren says, “Humility is not denying your strengths. It is being honest about your weaknesses.” Humble leaders don’t need praise, accolades, or credit to perform. Their answers begin with “we” or “us” or “our,” not “me” or “I” or “my.”

I truly do not begrudge those who are “the person of the moment.” Unless, of course, their theology is whacked or lifestyle “out to lunch.” God gives each of us a ministry-some are more high profile than others. But in any case, humility is essential. No matter who we are…what we do…where we live…where we minister.

How important is humility for you to see in your leaders? Do you have a checking point for your own thoughts about yourself?

Posted in Christian living, Just Wondering, Leadership | 25 Responses »

Slurs

Wednesday, May 1st, 2013

Have you noticed how many ways a person can slur someone else?

When I was growing up, the town and school had a large population of ~~black~~ African American people. Back then, the ugliest racial slur used was the one that can never be uttered in public anymore (except when they call each other that name).

The recent “outing” of the basketball player led one ESPN analyst to state his mind when he was asked. He stated it honesty and openly and because it was not “kosher” according to our media and society, he was considered out of bounds and had to offer an apology. It is considered a slur to call the player’s actions what they are.

But I am not talking about that kind of slur. Let me give you a hint:

I went to the dentist today (Wednesday). Now you know where I am going with this? About 3-4 years ago, at the ripe young age of 56 I was told I needed to have braces. January of 2012, after 2 1/2 years of wearing them, I finally had them removed. But work is still ongoing, and ongoing slowly depending on the money situation. I am still having crown work done and today was no exception. He starts out by numbing my gums and (I think by proxy) my lip. Then he takes this foot long needle and slowly works the medicine into my gum, which subsequently numbs both the gum, the lips, and my chin.

Do you know what it is like trying to eat or drink with half your mouth in an uncontrollable droop? UGH!

Do you know what it is like trying to talk with said droop? Double UGH!

You slur (there’s that word) your words. I was so glad nobody was around to take pictures or a video of me trying to eat or drink. Rumors would fly for sure. And that (as they say) is all I would need. I have tried to drink from a water bottle while riding after a shot and water/Gatorade goes every where. It was even harder for me today since I had gone for a ride, had time to come home and take a shower, brush my teeth and head to the dentist. I was dying of thirst! (Slight exaggeration). But I wanted a Diet Dr Pepper so I made sure my straw was on the side of my mouth not affected by the droop and I actually did okay not drooling it. I was careful with my words also, but the medicine wore off pretty quickly. Good thing since I have to teach tonight. Wouldn’t that be a hoot?

People slur their words in real life also. We say thing we shouldn’t. We criticize. We talk out of both sides of our mouths. As James writes, “My brothers, these things ought not be so.” (3:10) Let’ s be more careful with our words.

Do you have trouble with your words? Do you find yourself talking out of both sides of your mouth?

Posted in Christian living, Friendship, Just Wondering, Miscellaneous | 17 Responses »

Real

Tuesday, April 30th, 2013

After yesterday’s post here, I thought I would take a different direction with this one.

When someone talks or writes about Real, one of the first things that comes to many minds is this section from The Velveteen Rabbit. It is not unusual for the word “authentic” to creep into many conversations these days. People are tired of fake, of facades and walls built to keep people out (or are they to keep us in?)

Dad doesn’t want his wife or children to know what is going on at work so he hides that not everything is hunky dory.

Mom hides from her friends that she is burnt out and at her wit’s end with the kids.

Teens don’t want other teens to know (and especially their parents) that they are at the end of their rope. So they cut. Or take pills. Or end it all.

We hide bullying. We hide abuse (all kinds, especially those which can be seen). We hide affairs. We hide work theft. We hide “secret” sins. The list goes on and on. One of the worst for hiding behind a facade…(are you ready for this?)…are pastors and church leaders. While people are screaming for authenticity out of their leaders, many are erecting walls that get thicker with time. I have been reading The Catalyst Leader by Brad Lomenick the past couple of days. Chapter 2 is called Authentic: Unleash the Real You. It “spoke” to my heart and I thought I would share a few quotes included in the chapter.

“Be yourself. Authenticity trumps cool every time.” Craig Groeschel, pastor (p.27)

“Perhaps the ultimate freedom is the freedom to be one’s self.” Daniel Pink, author (p.31)

“There’s beauty in imperfection. When something becomes too polished, it loses its soul. Authenticity trumps professionalism!” Christine Caine, author and co-founder of the A21 Campaign (p.33)

“Originality is overrated. Authenticity is what matters.” Whitney George, youth pastor and speaker (p.36)

“You can’t love people and influence them unless you are close to them. Up close means you can see my warts. You can impress people from a distance, but can only influence them up close.“ Rick Warren, pastor and author (p.43)

“Be strong in grace. Your grace, your gift, your ability, who God’s called you to be, just be yourself…Don’t be anybody else, don’t compare yourself, just be you. If “you” is not everybody’s cup of tea, then don’t worry about it.” Judah Smith, pastor and author (p.44)

Those are some good quotes in the midst of an excellent and challenging chapter. I realize authenticity is not in everyone’s comfort zone. I cut my “pastor’s teeth” during an age when you revealed nothing about yourself. But times have changed, and unless the people sense authenticity (pastor or not), listening and trust may/may not follow.

How do you feel? Can a pastor reveal too much? Where is the line he shouldn’t cross? How much do you want him to reveal?

Posted in Christian living, Church, Just a Quote, Just Wondering, Leadership | 25 Responses »

Numbers

Wednesday, April 24th, 2013

No…not the book of the Bible.

Numbers…as in significance of success. You know…that thing that people equate with success. The higher the number the more successful one is. Better numbers=better offerings=better feelings=better judgement on job done. Those kinds of numbers.

You know, I suspect, the above formula is not necessarily true. Unfortunately, it is perceived to be. Let’s face it: in our day and age, numbers are often equated with success or lack of it. Case in point: My last post was about an event the church was hosting called Owen After Hours. We have worked for several months in preparing for it. I have dreamed of hosting the gathering and we were chosen to host the first one of 2013.

If numbers were a measuring stick, we failed.

Sort of like Sunday morning. There have been times I have worked on a sermon and suddenly I begin to hear or get calls of people who won’t be there for various reasons. That happened just this past Sunday. Our numbers were not as high as the week before, or even some of the previous month’s. If numbers are our measuring stick, we failed.

But since numbers are not our measuring stick, we succeeded.

We had an enthusiastic crowd (in spite of the flooding of our river).

We had some returning visitors (which is always encouraging).

I had some folks make comments who have never made one before. They thanked me for the message.

One of our first-time visitors, whom I have been inviting for months, commented at the Owen After Hours how much she appreciated the message, and the man who came with her (who has no religious affiliation whatsoever) commented about how “I could listen to him again.”

Our worship team and music were different due to vacations and a baby being born, but God showed up. (That is always a good thing). It is the first time this man led worship for us, after coming from another church, where he led with hymns and old-time music. His heart was good and God was blessed.

Sunday was a good day. The numbers weren’t there, but numbers are not an adequate way to judge success or failure. Sure, they can be used, but lack oomph where it counts.

NUMBERS ARE NOT A VALID MEASURING STICK OF A PERSON’S HEART. And in truth, they are not always a valid measuring stick of a church’s success.

Oh, speaking of Owen After Hours? There were two other events in town that were big- an FFA banquet/awards affair; and a local bank dinner/vote affair. But the ones who came were welcomed, fed non-diet food (cookies), saw a great slide show, toured our renovated building, and the 30-40 people who came stayed around and talked. IT WAS A SUCCESS!!

I would say I’m sorry for the soapbox, but I’m not. Too many pastors, especially young guys, are judged too harshly by numbers (or lack of them). Too many churches are also treated the same. What are your thoughts?

Posted in Christian living, Church, Just Wondering, Opinion | 36 Responses »

Images

Tuesday, April 23rd, 2013

What does the word image bring to your mind?

A physical representation of something or someone- sort of like an idol?

A person or thing that represents a double of something- sort of like a doppelganger?

The personality presented to the public-sort of like an organization or a church would do?

As I write this (Tuesday afternoon at 2:45), the church I pastor is going to be doing just that in about 2:45. For the past couple of years I have been attending a gathering called Owen After Hours (OAH). It is for those in the community who are members of the Chamber of Commerce, as well as those who are curious. We have been members for 5-6 years, I believe, and after finally receiving some literature, I decided to attend. Anyway, after a “Request Process,” we were approved to host the first OAH for 2013. So we began planning and today is the day. Lest anyone misunderstand, I am not a super saint devoid of motives, as in “why are we hosting this?” It is NOT a preaching service. It is NOT an evangelistic meeting. Pure and simple: it is a glad-handing event. Ryan and I (and some of the ladies who have prepared food) will be welcoming and talking with business people & leaders in the community. Okay, so I’ll say it…

IT IS AN IMAGE THING.

We want to get the name of the church, our location, and the renovation which has transformed our building and has helped “remake” us, in front of the community. We have no clue how many or who will come. I do know there will be plenty of food to ruin the healthy diet and/or supper. I don’t know if you think badly of us or not. I don’t feel a bit bad. I will if people don’t show up (attendance can be sketchy and it is now raining again). But we will run with it and do what we can to put our best foot forward. Along with food, we will also be showing the video of our renovation; showing a PP of those who took part in the renovation; we will be drawing for several donated door prizes (some donated by guys who will be displaying their business as part of OVCF and the Chamber); and we will be giving away copies of Love Works. It is an hour and a half of “Image Giving.”

But, in order to redeem this post , I thought this devotion by Greg Laurie about “Images” was right on the money (notice the date). Enjoy it.

In the meantime, do you think churches should take part in events like this or is it giving the wrong impression? Just want to know what you think. Any thoughts on Greg’s devotion?

Posted in Christian living, Church, Just Wondering, Leadership, Miscellaneous | 31 Responses »

Warning

Wednesday, April 17th, 2013

I had made plans to review Craig Groeschel’s book Altar Ego this week. Today, in fact. However, life got in the way and kicked that to the curb. A dear friend went to be with Jesus on Tuesday afternoon and even though I have been away from the church she attended (and I pastored for 13 years), she has honored me by asking that I take part in her memorial service alongside her current pastor (and my successor). It has meant a rewiring of my week since it will mean going out of town and making a decision to either go to Visitation on Thursday night, come home, then return for the Funeral on Friday morning or spend the night in a hotel in that city. Needless to say, it also means some prep work. So, in lieu of that, I will post about Craig’s book next week.

So…I thought I would go easy on myself (and you) and post two Scriptures that I have read the past two days. I read through Proverbs every other month and decided I would diverge from my ESV and read it from The Message. The verses sound strange the way Peterson has paraphrased them, but it does give a fresh look to them.

“First pride, then the crash- the bigger the ego, the harder the fall.” 16:18

We all know that as “Pride goes before a fall.” Not much to add to that is there? How many times have I fallen after a prideful moment? Too many to count. A greater tragedy might be those who fall and don’t care. They still hold on to their opinion or arrogant “stand.”

“Overlook an offense and bond a friendship; fasten on to a slight and—good-bye, friend!” 17:9

Better known as “Whoever covers an offense seeks love, but he who repeats a matter separates close friends.” (ESV)

There are several thoughts in this verse. One is the importance of cultivating a friendship. Another is the tragedy caused by hanging on to things instead of forgiving. Way too many people are affected and governed by their refusal to let things go. I have seen people’s lives literally destroyed by bitterness and the unwillingness to forgive.

Relationships with people are so fragile, yet so important. They take time to nurture and grow. They take “invested time” to make them last. How are you at friendships? Second question: if you were to narrow it down to one Proverb that particularly is close to your heart, which one would it be?

Posted in Christian living, Family, Friendship, Just Wondering, Scripture look | 17 Responses »