On the road today, heading back to Ashton to pack and prepare for our return to California.
I was sent by God to serve, used and now, in the spirit of the words of the Wesleyan Covenant prayer, we are "set aside" for a while. There is a strange and beautiful peace in the quietness but also a very real hole in my life now that I have no responsibility to prepare for preaching and leading a community in worship each Sunday.
Discernment always requires a space of quiet to allow the old to fade before the new entrance.
Grace and peace to all.
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Community Visioning Rally
I've been involved in this project, the Horizons Steering Committee, since I first attended the Showcase put on by the University of Idaho last August.
My part in getting the project rolling wasn't that spectacular. I just took the words other people spoke about their perceptions and hopes of what good could result if we were accepted into this grant program, and put it into the final form for submission. We heard back within 48 hours. Anyone who has written grants knows that very unusual. But it's great getting immediate feedback.
Well, honestly, I realize I do accomplish a lot by encouraging people to speak and then claim responsibility for their ideas by acting on them. I also like to give voice to their concerns as I preach, teach and work with the church and the community. I enjoy seeing other people grow in their self-confidence and to see the fruits of their work.
Thursday night was the kick off of phase four with our Community Visioning Rally.
The threshold goal was to have 15% of the community participate which was a target of 170 people attending. We definitely met that.Free dinner certainly helped fill the room.
David Beurle was our facilitator. I could say so much about him. WOW. In the presentation he identified the ten characteristics of a successful rural community. The photo is the result of the communal voting on individual perceptions about the agreement (green) or disagreement (red) of the statement as an accurate description about our community.
The ten items where each listed on a one sheet (ten pages on the wall) and each voted as they viewed the community. We had 4 red and 4 green dots each to vote with.
What we all noted was the surprisingly high level of agreement on these issues.
THE top ten Attributes of Successful communities are:
1. Evidence of strong community pride and inclusive culture.
2. Invest in the future- built to last.
3. PArticipatory approach to community decision making.
4. Creatively build economic opportunities,
5. Support local businesses.
6. Deliberate transition of power to new leaders.
7. strong belief in and support for education.
8. Strong presence of traditional institutions that are integral to community life.
9. Willingness to seek help from the outside.
10. Communities are self- reliant.
What participants said about Ashton is said with the picture at top. (read pictures of charts left to right to correspond with Attribute 1-10 being present in the community).
By the end of the session, the group had named their preferred vision for the community.
By the way, thanks to members from Ashton Community UMC who came out for the rally:
Chan & Judy Atchley, Nancy & Rodger Williams, John & Joann Jorgensen, Pat Sturm, Marion Rice, Jane and Claude Daniels.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Easter plus three weeks
I realize it’s been a while since I posted anything.. not that anyone has been demanding any word of wit, wisdom or sarcasm. But as a sort of cyber spiritual journal it is reflective of my own need to maintain silence and reflection as I sort out what is happening in my ministry, and my life.
To catch up with the seasons of the Christian year we are in Easter. That’s a season, not just a day if you plan or participate in the worship life of the Church. The First Sunday is really the most high Holy Day of the entire year in my own faith understanding. The reason it is so is because Easter Sunday commemorates the Triumph of life over death. The resurrection of Jesus is God’s testimony verifying the life and testimony of Jesus of Nazareth. At the recognition of Jesus by the disciples begins the birth of the new line of faith that would try to remain within the household of Judaism, but would eventually end up being cut loose to seek it’s own path and identity as the way to eternal life. The rest of that story comes in the Celebration of Pentecost and the season that follows which lectionary writers simply refer to as ordinary time.
Resurrection of the dead required a death to become demonstrable. One testimony, and one glorification became the confirming signs of one Lord over all creation. Jesus “the anointed one of God” Christ became the Judge over all creation. For most Christians the celebration of Easter is an acknowledgement of all that scripture gives and gave witness to throughout the ages. It is the jubilant feast that laughs at the prince of darkness, and the victory over death which grounds our own hope which ultimately conquers fear of death, and offers newness of life.
With that said, why on earth would a blogging pastor stay silent?
Well, in some ways this year, this pastor has been off calendar. My Lenten journey seems to have needed more time. Palm Sunday my District Superintendent called to advise me and begin the process of working with my congregation, preparing them for an important change. This was not unexpected because it was the result of earlier input given to the Bishop through the District Superintendent in which both myself as pastor, and the pastor staff parish relations committee discerned it was time for a change in pastoral leadership.
On Easter Sunday the appointment intentions were read in the congregation.
So for the last three plus weeks I have been processing what needs to be done to bring closure to a ministry. But added to that I have also had to do something somewhat untypical for United Methodist Pastors, as I have had to initiate a job search outside the bounds of the conference, a calling of sorts, for an appointment or placement within another conference.
Our life, like so many Americans today, is being touched by the economic downturn in an unanticipated way. I hopefully anticipate being led by God to a next place of ministry. But quite naturally both Tim and I are forced to face the uncertainty of not knowing while we wait upon the Spirit of the Lord to present us with the pillar of fire and smoke to lead us on our next leg in the journey. Being two unemployed people simultaneously would be the worst case scenario.
Yet life inside the Ashton Community United Methodist Church Parsonage has a peculiar peacefulness. That, I believe, is a sign of our own certain belief in the claim that Christ placed on our lives which started when together we first trusted in my call of vocation to respond to Christ's commission - go and make disciples. We receive that also because we have many in prayer for us, even as we are in prayer for the whole United Methodist Church in this season of appointments.
So, pray for us in our place of unknowing, to hear and follow where Christ is leading us next.
Grace and peace,
To catch up with the seasons of the Christian year we are in Easter. That’s a season, not just a day if you plan or participate in the worship life of the Church. The First Sunday is really the most high Holy Day of the entire year in my own faith understanding. The reason it is so is because Easter Sunday commemorates the Triumph of life over death. The resurrection of Jesus is God’s testimony verifying the life and testimony of Jesus of Nazareth. At the recognition of Jesus by the disciples begins the birth of the new line of faith that would try to remain within the household of Judaism, but would eventually end up being cut loose to seek it’s own path and identity as the way to eternal life. The rest of that story comes in the Celebration of Pentecost and the season that follows which lectionary writers simply refer to as ordinary time.
Resurrection of the dead required a death to become demonstrable. One testimony, and one glorification became the confirming signs of one Lord over all creation. Jesus “the anointed one of God” Christ became the Judge over all creation. For most Christians the celebration of Easter is an acknowledgement of all that scripture gives and gave witness to throughout the ages. It is the jubilant feast that laughs at the prince of darkness, and the victory over death which grounds our own hope which ultimately conquers fear of death, and offers newness of life.
With that said, why on earth would a blogging pastor stay silent?
Well, in some ways this year, this pastor has been off calendar. My Lenten journey seems to have needed more time. Palm Sunday my District Superintendent called to advise me and begin the process of working with my congregation, preparing them for an important change. This was not unexpected because it was the result of earlier input given to the Bishop through the District Superintendent in which both myself as pastor, and the pastor staff parish relations committee discerned it was time for a change in pastoral leadership.
On Easter Sunday the appointment intentions were read in the congregation.
So for the last three plus weeks I have been processing what needs to be done to bring closure to a ministry. But added to that I have also had to do something somewhat untypical for United Methodist Pastors, as I have had to initiate a job search outside the bounds of the conference, a calling of sorts, for an appointment or placement within another conference.
Our life, like so many Americans today, is being touched by the economic downturn in an unanticipated way. I hopefully anticipate being led by God to a next place of ministry. But quite naturally both Tim and I are forced to face the uncertainty of not knowing while we wait upon the Spirit of the Lord to present us with the pillar of fire and smoke to lead us on our next leg in the journey. Being two unemployed people simultaneously would be the worst case scenario.
Yet life inside the Ashton Community United Methodist Church Parsonage has a peculiar peacefulness. That, I believe, is a sign of our own certain belief in the claim that Christ placed on our lives which started when together we first trusted in my call of vocation to respond to Christ's commission - go and make disciples. We receive that also because we have many in prayer for us, even as we are in prayer for the whole United Methodist Church in this season of appointments.
So, pray for us in our place of unknowing, to hear and follow where Christ is leading us next.
Grace and peace,
Friday, April 10, 2009
Betrayal Past and Present
Earlier today thousands gathered to pay proper respect for the dead of the Abruzzo Earthquake. It’s a tragic situation, the death toll now at 289, the count still rising, leaving so many victims and crushed lives. Nature rumbled and buildings tumbled. But the greatest tragedy to my thinking is the news following this earthquake which places heavy blame on contractors. Modern buildings crumbled while ancient edifices remained intact. President Napolitino has called for an investigation in why building standards weren’t upheld. Betrayal of trust is the theme of the day. This is a somber reminder of the fallen nature of humanity which fits right in with the story of the crucifixion of Jesus.
Today’s Funeral service received special dispensation from the Pope, because today, being Good Friday is the one day in the year when Roman Catholics will not celebrate the Eucharist. Under normal circumstances, there is to be one single focus on this day world wide in Western Christianity, remembrance of the betrayal, arrest, conviction, and crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. But considering the circumstances postponement of funeral services would only further cloud the story of hope that comes on the third day, and delay the needed closure for so many survivors. So wisdom and sorrow intersected in the streets of L’Aquile while thousands mourned the tragic events of the week. Christians and Muslims together mourned. If you like thinking in apocalyptic terms, shock waves catapulted the great horse of death through the streets and towns of Italy, riding on the waves of the earth’s crust. Anger and grief mingle together now as Italians seek understanding of the senseless loss of life.
This is not the first time faulty building construction has taken its toll on a community.
What is it about humanity that allows people to cheat in quality at the expense of their own countrymen? Is it greed, or lack of pride in workmanship, or ignorance? Perhaps it’s a combination of all. So the theme of present betrayal serves as a counterpoint in reflection as we remember his time of abandonment and betrayal which preceded the death of Jesus of Nazareth.
Joseph Campbell wrote extensively on the archetype themes that weave through civilizations and cultures. The Hero serves as the ultimate in standards for the moral life. Story after story demonstrate that the moral life is inclined to leave a person walking alone through dark places. Campbell often referred to Jesus as the Christian equivalent of the Hero, a model for humanity to use as a pattern for their own lives. The story of Jesus is a story to bring meaning out of the meaninglessness of tragedy and loss. It is a story to bring purpose and direction when the moral compass swings about mercurially as if caught between several magnets.
That is a minimalist understanding of Jesus of Nazareth. It overlooks the resurrection and sidesteps having to deal with any talk of an atoning death. But if that helps you begin to reflect on the meaning of Jesus to the world in which you live, it’s a good enough starting place.
The Palm Sunday text in Mark (11:1-11) relates the solitary nature of the final phase of Jesus’ journey toward Golgatha. While the crowds shouted joyously up to the city walls, no one steps a single foot inside. A patriotic assembly and rally inside the walls of Jerusalem would have incited the wrath of Pontius Pilate. No one wanted to risk meeting their own execution. But they were glad to cheer Jesus on right up to the city gates. So alone, on his borrowed colt, Jesus traveled through the city and entered the Temple. Later he returns to join his disciples in the safety of Bethany, away from the watchful eye of Roman authorities and Jewish Leaders.
That sets the stage for this evening’s Tenebrae service. From that moment when Jesus walked into Jerusalem, support for the teacher began to evaporate. Many would claim loyalty. No one would hang on the cross with him that day that had also come from within the inner circle of Jesus’ closest disciples.
But then, no one else needed to. Only one perfect lamb was required to accomplish the work of redemption.
“Holy is the lamb that is slain and worthy to be praised.”
Grace and peace,
Pastor Barbara
Today’s Funeral service received special dispensation from the Pope, because today, being Good Friday is the one day in the year when Roman Catholics will not celebrate the Eucharist. Under normal circumstances, there is to be one single focus on this day world wide in Western Christianity, remembrance of the betrayal, arrest, conviction, and crucifixion of Jesus of Nazareth. But considering the circumstances postponement of funeral services would only further cloud the story of hope that comes on the third day, and delay the needed closure for so many survivors. So wisdom and sorrow intersected in the streets of L’Aquile while thousands mourned the tragic events of the week. Christians and Muslims together mourned. If you like thinking in apocalyptic terms, shock waves catapulted the great horse of death through the streets and towns of Italy, riding on the waves of the earth’s crust. Anger and grief mingle together now as Italians seek understanding of the senseless loss of life.
This is not the first time faulty building construction has taken its toll on a community.
What is it about humanity that allows people to cheat in quality at the expense of their own countrymen? Is it greed, or lack of pride in workmanship, or ignorance? Perhaps it’s a combination of all. So the theme of present betrayal serves as a counterpoint in reflection as we remember his time of abandonment and betrayal which preceded the death of Jesus of Nazareth.
Joseph Campbell wrote extensively on the archetype themes that weave through civilizations and cultures. The Hero serves as the ultimate in standards for the moral life. Story after story demonstrate that the moral life is inclined to leave a person walking alone through dark places. Campbell often referred to Jesus as the Christian equivalent of the Hero, a model for humanity to use as a pattern for their own lives. The story of Jesus is a story to bring meaning out of the meaninglessness of tragedy and loss. It is a story to bring purpose and direction when the moral compass swings about mercurially as if caught between several magnets.
That is a minimalist understanding of Jesus of Nazareth. It overlooks the resurrection and sidesteps having to deal with any talk of an atoning death. But if that helps you begin to reflect on the meaning of Jesus to the world in which you live, it’s a good enough starting place.
The Palm Sunday text in Mark (11:1-11) relates the solitary nature of the final phase of Jesus’ journey toward Golgatha. While the crowds shouted joyously up to the city walls, no one steps a single foot inside. A patriotic assembly and rally inside the walls of Jerusalem would have incited the wrath of Pontius Pilate. No one wanted to risk meeting their own execution. But they were glad to cheer Jesus on right up to the city gates. So alone, on his borrowed colt, Jesus traveled through the city and entered the Temple. Later he returns to join his disciples in the safety of Bethany, away from the watchful eye of Roman authorities and Jewish Leaders.
That sets the stage for this evening’s Tenebrae service. From that moment when Jesus walked into Jerusalem, support for the teacher began to evaporate. Many would claim loyalty. No one would hang on the cross with him that day that had also come from within the inner circle of Jesus’ closest disciples.
But then, no one else needed to. Only one perfect lamb was required to accomplish the work of redemption.
“Holy is the lamb that is slain and worthy to be praised.”
Grace and peace,
Pastor Barbara
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Saving money takes planning
John Wesley admonished the believers "Earn all you can, save all you so that you can give all you can."
In the wake of the Industrial revolution of Britain, with large numbers of Britain's poor working class finding newness of life in the reception of the gospel, Wesley regularly emphasized the theme of stewardship. His three points of stewardship was presented as a simple directive. Simple that is, if you listen to the beginning and sleep through the remaining two points. Sermons generally lasted much longer than present day preachers turn out. So,I could see how one might conveniently miss the next two point. People were very eager to better their financial position so folks liked being told it was good to earn lots. Letting loose of some of that hard earned cash was easier to do for one's own benefit than for someone else. That's timeless human behavior I think. Frugality can lead to stinginess. You can bet you are being filled by the Holy Spirits gifts if generosity is present and growing.
I was thinking about John's instructions today as I sat in the Coupon Class taught by Amanda Fricke. She came well prepared to lead us through the basics of maximizing the use of coupons and explaining the format of her weekly reports. She also came prepared to protect herself legally, by having each participant sign an agreement not to photocopy or redistribute through any means, any of the materials she handed out. She's put a lot of effort into the research and development of her materials. She has every right to expect others to respect her intellectual materials as protected under copyright laws. I'ld love to tell you everything and freely share all that she produces. But I'm not willing to pay her $45.00 fine each time I do.
I can say this, Amanda understands that making and saving money requires careful planning and discipline. She has a monthly budget for food. She shops and stores surplus knowing there are certain things she will always use. She even plans her menus around what is on the shelf, rather than planning a shopping list around her menus. That fits in with my way of operating. I watch the specials and pick up in surplus knowing there is a certain cyclical nature to store adds.
The big key is planning your shopping by doing research on the current week sales and keeping every possible coupon. She also buys several copies of the Sunday newspaper specifically for the coupon supplements.
Amanda saves so much money, and is able to pick up so many great deals that she can easily be charitable with neighbors, and non-profit organizations. As we all listened to her describe her surplus the question was asked where did she put it all. The reply "under the kitchen table, in closets, a spare refrigerator at her parents home." To make sure no food goes unused because bargains aren't bargains if you end up throwing away expired food, she makes sure to rotate the shelves and give away anything within two months of expiration.
In our presentation I was remembering my years as a mother with one, then two children, going to back to the university to finish my degree. Coupons and refunding were my corporate food stamps. We lived on one income, enjoyed living on campus, and took advantage of many entertainment opportunities primarily because I was able to keep our food budget to the bare minimum.
In this present economy it is easy to slip into thinking we are being deprived. Being with Amanda today reminded me that there is a great abundance available to those who will engage themselves with diligence and discipline to wise use of their resources. A few might even want to follow behind Amanda Fricke weekly for a while to learn all the tricks of the trade and become professional shoppers for others. All of us can learn to save more and do just as well spending less for the same quality we have been accustomed to.
If you didn't attend Amanda's class in Ashton today and want to learn more, check out her blog.
By the way, the Ashton neighbors that came to this class saved a bundle today. Amanda normally charges $40.00 per person for her class. SHARE Network arranged a special price and then offered scholarships to reduce the out of pocket expense to all participants. Our hope is that these people will be better equipped to save as much as they can. If they also begin to share from their abundance and help the Pantry with making special purchases that would be a double blessing.
"A capable wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.
She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
She opens her hand to the poor, and reaches out her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid for her household when it snows
for all her household are clothed in Crimson." Proverbs 31: 10,11, 16,18,20-21
In the wake of the Industrial revolution of Britain, with large numbers of Britain's poor working class finding newness of life in the reception of the gospel, Wesley regularly emphasized the theme of stewardship. His three points of stewardship was presented as a simple directive. Simple that is, if you listen to the beginning and sleep through the remaining two points. Sermons generally lasted much longer than present day preachers turn out. So,I could see how one might conveniently miss the next two point. People were very eager to better their financial position so folks liked being told it was good to earn lots. Letting loose of some of that hard earned cash was easier to do for one's own benefit than for someone else. That's timeless human behavior I think. Frugality can lead to stinginess. You can bet you are being filled by the Holy Spirits gifts if generosity is present and growing.
I was thinking about John's instructions today as I sat in the Coupon Class taught by Amanda Fricke. She came well prepared to lead us through the basics of maximizing the use of coupons and explaining the format of her weekly reports. She also came prepared to protect herself legally, by having each participant sign an agreement not to photocopy or redistribute through any means, any of the materials she handed out. She's put a lot of effort into the research and development of her materials. She has every right to expect others to respect her intellectual materials as protected under copyright laws. I'ld love to tell you everything and freely share all that she produces. But I'm not willing to pay her $45.00 fine each time I do.
I can say this, Amanda understands that making and saving money requires careful planning and discipline. She has a monthly budget for food. She shops and stores surplus knowing there are certain things she will always use. She even plans her menus around what is on the shelf, rather than planning a shopping list around her menus. That fits in with my way of operating. I watch the specials and pick up in surplus knowing there is a certain cyclical nature to store adds.
The big key is planning your shopping by doing research on the current week sales and keeping every possible coupon. She also buys several copies of the Sunday newspaper specifically for the coupon supplements.
Amanda saves so much money, and is able to pick up so many great deals that she can easily be charitable with neighbors, and non-profit organizations. As we all listened to her describe her surplus the question was asked where did she put it all. The reply "under the kitchen table, in closets, a spare refrigerator at her parents home." To make sure no food goes unused because bargains aren't bargains if you end up throwing away expired food, she makes sure to rotate the shelves and give away anything within two months of expiration.
In our presentation I was remembering my years as a mother with one, then two children, going to back to the university to finish my degree. Coupons and refunding were my corporate food stamps. We lived on one income, enjoyed living on campus, and took advantage of many entertainment opportunities primarily because I was able to keep our food budget to the bare minimum.
In this present economy it is easy to slip into thinking we are being deprived. Being with Amanda today reminded me that there is a great abundance available to those who will engage themselves with diligence and discipline to wise use of their resources. A few might even want to follow behind Amanda Fricke weekly for a while to learn all the tricks of the trade and become professional shoppers for others. All of us can learn to save more and do just as well spending less for the same quality we have been accustomed to.
If you didn't attend Amanda's class in Ashton today and want to learn more, check out her blog.
By the way, the Ashton neighbors that came to this class saved a bundle today. Amanda normally charges $40.00 per person for her class. SHARE Network arranged a special price and then offered scholarships to reduce the out of pocket expense to all participants. Our hope is that these people will be better equipped to save as much as they can. If they also begin to share from their abundance and help the Pantry with making special purchases that would be a double blessing.
"A capable wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels.
The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain.
She considers a field and buys it;
with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard.
She perceives that her merchandise is profitable.
She opens her hand to the poor, and reaches out her hands to the needy.
She is not afraid for her household when it snows
for all her household are clothed in Crimson." Proverbs 31: 10,11, 16,18,20-21
Friday, March 20, 2009
Coupon class - 50% to 100% off
The Ashton Community Food Pantry is offering a Coupon Class to be taught by Amanda Fricke of www.stretchingyouridahodollars.com. The class will be held on Saturday, March 21st from 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the Ashton Community Center Meeting Room. (Upstairs and to the left.) The class fee is $20/person which includes “The Coupon Guide” book and Coupon Binder. The first 20 people to register will receive $10 off this class fee. To register or for more information please call Cicely Kuehl at 360-8954.
Amanda Fricke has been a real help to the Community Food Pantry in collecting food from area stores also.. If you've never thought you could eat almost for free using coupons and store sales you absolutely will want to attend.
SHARE Network is the corporate body operating the food pantry.
Amanda Fricke has been a real help to the Community Food Pantry in collecting food from area stores also.. If you've never thought you could eat almost for free using coupons and store sales you absolutely will want to attend.
SHARE Network is the corporate body operating the food pantry.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
20/20 LENT
“20/20” I said to my beloved today.
He looked at me and said “Dateline?”
Shaking my head negatively, “20/20” I said again.
“Perfect vision?” He replied.
Shaking negative again, I said “20/20.. 20 days before, 20 days behind. We’re smack in the middle of Lent.”
“AHH...” He humors me a lot. “Really.”
Well, it’s true. We are right in the middle of Lent. The dark of winter is almost to a close. Tomorrow will be the first day of Spring. The long Dark now behind us along with the hardest part of the self-reflecting period where I challenged you to think about two questions. Are you engaging your thoughts on the twin questions?
"What would God like me to change?" and
"What would I have God change in me?"
For myself, this year has offered extra opportunity to think about my shadow. I don’t mean like in Peter Pan, the literal shadow of my self that I experience in relationship to the sun or other light source. I’m referring to what therapists refer to as the shadow. It’s a part of our make-up to have both good and bad qualities of the self. The part we dislike the most about our self and want to ignore, or conceal from others can become a heavy burden on the self. It also creates relationship tension. We tend to react negatively toward other people who exhibit the very traits which we dislike in ourselves. It seems to be the worst when we deny that part within our own self. In that case seem to become magnetic in our attracting repellant relationships. We see in others what we won’t acknowledge in ourselves.
“I’m NOT controlling.”
“I never get angry.”
“I’m a peacemaker. I don’t go around hurting people.” Well, you get the picture.
Spiritual growth depends on being able to face that within our self that keeps us trapped in repetitive non-productive cycles. Changing those patterns, behaviors, and beliefs all require looking at the worst part of our self in the full light of day. Alcoholics Anonymous is one group that emphasizes honesty for the welfare of each other. Growth occurs over time when the reality is kept in the light of conscious awareness, rather than being allowed to slip back into the recesses of our subconscious. At least that’s how I understand the process. I can’t quote whose theory it is. I just know that’s how it works for me.
Do we need to go around like members of AA and tell each other the details of our shadow in order to change? For the most part, I would say, no probably not. But I do believe there is value in having others with whom you are willing to share trusting that you will help each other, encourage each other and lift up each other in prayer. I have a circle of friends from seminary# which I use as my covenant. I do encourage the use of a small circle of trusted Christians build faith and friendship. I recently met a lay member in the Annual Conference who said he has a circle of men he has been in covenant relationship with for 20 years. They meet weekly.
When you work on your shadow you need to be prepared to experience a dark period before you see the light. Done properly, you will see a death of your old self and a new birth, by the grace of God. In the cycle of Christian Life, death comes before the new birth, new growth follows the cold of winter. Lent ends in the festivities of Easter.
So here we are 20/20 gaining 20/20. We are standing in the middle of Lent observing our shadow and reflecting on our new self to come into being, anticipating the Celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus and the power over death through the work of God. That power assures us of God’s ability to turn Bad into Good. Yes, even your bad into a “new you” good.
Before the resurrection we remember the journey of sorrows that Jesus endured leading up to his crucifixion. Through our remembrance of Jesus’ journey, we gain assurance that we worship and serve one who also knows sorrow, pain, and hardship but did so victoriously with God. This single week is more important to all of Christian faith, than any other teaching of the church. Even the birth of Jesus is second to this one week’s activities.
Holy week will be April 5 to April 12. Palm Sunday, April 5, recalls the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and entry into the Temple. Holy Thursday marks the last night the disciples gathered with Jesus before his arrest; it included specifically the remembrance of the Last Supper and the institution of the Holy Communion, April 9. “Good Friday,” April 10, is commemorated with a Tenebrae service that recalls the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. Finally, on Sunday April 12, we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus, God’s great joke on Death and the Devil. I pray that you will come to the service held at the United Methodist Church here in Ashton through the week to remember, worship and receive the transforming Spirit of God.
#
We live and work across the West, from California to Washington, Arizona to Idaho, Oregon to New Mexico. We maintain that covenant through email. We miss meeting at the broken loaf of Claremont School of Theology and sitting down to share meals regularly. But now we’ve added to our reconnecting time by using Facebook just for fun. And no, you won’t find a special label on my covenant friends in Facebook.
He looked at me and said “Dateline?”
Shaking my head negatively, “20/20” I said again.
“Perfect vision?” He replied.
Shaking negative again, I said “20/20.. 20 days before, 20 days behind. We’re smack in the middle of Lent.”
“AHH...” He humors me a lot. “Really.”
Well, it’s true. We are right in the middle of Lent. The dark of winter is almost to a close. Tomorrow will be the first day of Spring. The long Dark now behind us along with the hardest part of the self-reflecting period where I challenged you to think about two questions. Are you engaging your thoughts on the twin questions?
"What would God like me to change?" and
"What would I have God change in me?"
For myself, this year has offered extra opportunity to think about my shadow. I don’t mean like in Peter Pan, the literal shadow of my self that I experience in relationship to the sun or other light source. I’m referring to what therapists refer to as the shadow. It’s a part of our make-up to have both good and bad qualities of the self. The part we dislike the most about our self and want to ignore, or conceal from others can become a heavy burden on the self. It also creates relationship tension. We tend to react negatively toward other people who exhibit the very traits which we dislike in ourselves. It seems to be the worst when we deny that part within our own self. In that case seem to become magnetic in our attracting repellant relationships. We see in others what we won’t acknowledge in ourselves.
“I’m NOT controlling.”
“I never get angry.”
“I’m a peacemaker. I don’t go around hurting people.” Well, you get the picture.
Spiritual growth depends on being able to face that within our self that keeps us trapped in repetitive non-productive cycles. Changing those patterns, behaviors, and beliefs all require looking at the worst part of our self in the full light of day. Alcoholics Anonymous is one group that emphasizes honesty for the welfare of each other. Growth occurs over time when the reality is kept in the light of conscious awareness, rather than being allowed to slip back into the recesses of our subconscious. At least that’s how I understand the process. I can’t quote whose theory it is. I just know that’s how it works for me.
Do we need to go around like members of AA and tell each other the details of our shadow in order to change? For the most part, I would say, no probably not. But I do believe there is value in having others with whom you are willing to share trusting that you will help each other, encourage each other and lift up each other in prayer. I have a circle of friends from seminary# which I use as my covenant. I do encourage the use of a small circle of trusted Christians build faith and friendship. I recently met a lay member in the Annual Conference who said he has a circle of men he has been in covenant relationship with for 20 years. They meet weekly.
When you work on your shadow you need to be prepared to experience a dark period before you see the light. Done properly, you will see a death of your old self and a new birth, by the grace of God. In the cycle of Christian Life, death comes before the new birth, new growth follows the cold of winter. Lent ends in the festivities of Easter.
So here we are 20/20 gaining 20/20. We are standing in the middle of Lent observing our shadow and reflecting on our new self to come into being, anticipating the Celebration of the Resurrection of Jesus and the power over death through the work of God. That power assures us of God’s ability to turn Bad into Good. Yes, even your bad into a “new you” good.
Before the resurrection we remember the journey of sorrows that Jesus endured leading up to his crucifixion. Through our remembrance of Jesus’ journey, we gain assurance that we worship and serve one who also knows sorrow, pain, and hardship but did so victoriously with God. This single week is more important to all of Christian faith, than any other teaching of the church. Even the birth of Jesus is second to this one week’s activities.
Holy week will be April 5 to April 12. Palm Sunday, April 5, recalls the entry of Jesus into Jerusalem and entry into the Temple. Holy Thursday marks the last night the disciples gathered with Jesus before his arrest; it included specifically the remembrance of the Last Supper and the institution of the Holy Communion, April 9. “Good Friday,” April 10, is commemorated with a Tenebrae service that recalls the trial and crucifixion of Jesus. Finally, on Sunday April 12, we celebrate the Resurrection of Jesus, God’s great joke on Death and the Devil. I pray that you will come to the service held at the United Methodist Church here in Ashton through the week to remember, worship and receive the transforming Spirit of God.
#
We live and work across the West, from California to Washington, Arizona to Idaho, Oregon to New Mexico. We maintain that covenant through email. We miss meeting at the broken loaf of Claremont School of Theology and sitting down to share meals regularly. But now we’ve added to our reconnecting time by using Facebook just for fun. And no, you won’t find a special label on my covenant friends in Facebook.
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Lent- is it about Addition or Subtraction?
Lent has often been associated as a time of self-denial, giving up something near and dear to one’s heart. It’s a private act of devotion, a special act of piety, not something that you boast about or make loud announcements about if practiced as Jesus taught his disciples. Another way to look at the period of lent is to adopt an attitude of trying something new on for size. Intentionally setting aside a short period in each day to journal, pray for the church, read from a devotional book, or learn a new spiritual practice such as centering prayer.
Are you engaging your thoughts on the twin questions?
"What would God like me to change?" and
"What would I have God change in me?"
One need not literally leave their home for forty days in order to engage in a time of spiritual reflection. One needs only to adopt an attitude applied to daily life. Engaging in such time would be adding an act of devotion to daily life.
May you travel with a receptive heart to the work of the Holy Spirit this Lent.
Are you engaging your thoughts on the twin questions?
"What would God like me to change?" and
"What would I have God change in me?"
One need not literally leave their home for forty days in order to engage in a time of spiritual reflection. One needs only to adopt an attitude applied to daily life. Engaging in such time would be adding an act of devotion to daily life.
May you travel with a receptive heart to the work of the Holy Spirit this Lent.
Gracious God, help us in these forty days of reflection and renewal to become more open to the work of your Holy Spirit. Open our hearts to receive anew the message of your saving grace, offered without price and offered to all. Prick us just slightly each time we begin to slip into believing we have done, or could do anything on our own, that would merit your love any more than you’ve already loved us. Help us recover the joy and relief we first felt when we heard and received the word of hope; when we believed only in your work testified in the resurrection of Jesus. Bring forth from us the best that your Spirit would have us do to bring glory and honor to you alone. This we pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Saturday, February 28, 2009
Lenten resources, Lenten Reflection
Lent is a season of reflection and preparation. It seems a fitting time to look at what our Annual Conference membership offers and recommends as well as looking at our own personal practices.
The 2007 Annual Conference adopted a Strategic Direction for the Annual Conference. The Strategic Direction includes a commitment to 4 key points commitments. The First Point is a commitment to Practicing Personal and Social Holiness. At the 2008 Annual Conference, Bishop Hoshibata declared the year of 2008-2009 to be the “Year of Personal Holiness”. As we enter the Lenten season now is a good time for each of us reflect on what it means to live a life of personal and social holiness.
Does it feel that this is a radical expectation? If these words grouped together leave you scratching your head wondering how to live that out in your life, I suspect you are not traveling alone in your confusion. After all, our emphasis of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ sounds like a sure fire excuse to dispel any consideration of actions.
The Apostle Paul encountered similar opposition both to the message of grace available to all through Jesus, and to his calls for purity and holiness of heart among the believers. Christian life is a continual paradox. We are expected to live pure and holy lives. And yet we know that we cannot be perfect, so we trust in the merit obtained through Jesus as a salve for our troubled consciences. As Methodists we also have a heritage derived from the Oxford Movement, John & Charles Wesley, and the practice of belonging to accountability circles. Each of these urge everyone not to take our lives in Christ for granted, instead urging us to seek personal holiness, that which we commonly call “perfection.”
The practice of belonging to a study circle, or accountability group was integral to the growth of the Methodist movement in Britain. Long in remission in the United States, the Accountability Group is once again being revived in churches throughout the United States. Our General Board of Discipleship, supported by our apportionment dollars, provides excellent resources to assist local churches in starting and maintaining these covenant/accountability groups. In the groups, a commitment to confidentiality, care and concern for one another is established. From time to time members need to ask each other tough questions about where they are falling down in their Christian Life.
What are the hallmarks of being an Accountable Disciple? I have been referring to the "three simple rules," do no harm, do good, stay in love with God for daily guidance in Christian life as a summary of Wesley's preaching. This can be applied throughout each day.
In addition, whether you belong to a small group or not, Wesley’s model of faithful living as a member in the body of Christ stressed a practice of participation in four areas of life:
Living in these open spaces of the west, leads to very independent thinking, in spite of our interdependence upon one another. Belonging to a small group with the specific intent of lifting one another up on the Christian Journey may also seem very contrary to your nature. It’s certainly scary to become vulnerable to a group when we prefer to pretend we have no faults needing correction. Nevertheless, I would urge members to prayerfully seek guidance about forming a small circle of 6-8 Christian friends with a commitment to lifting up one another in a weekly meeting as an avenue to live out our call to Personal Holiness. The personal benefit you can expect is a deeper relationship with God and several brothers and sisters in the Lord.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Barbara
The 2007 Annual Conference adopted a Strategic Direction for the Annual Conference. The Strategic Direction includes a commitment to 4 key points commitments. The First Point is a commitment to Practicing Personal and Social Holiness. At the 2008 Annual Conference, Bishop Hoshibata declared the year of 2008-2009 to be the “Year of Personal Holiness”. As we enter the Lenten season now is a good time for each of us reflect on what it means to live a life of personal and social holiness.
Does it feel that this is a radical expectation? If these words grouped together leave you scratching your head wondering how to live that out in your life, I suspect you are not traveling alone in your confusion. After all, our emphasis of salvation by grace alone through faith alone in Jesus Christ sounds like a sure fire excuse to dispel any consideration of actions.
The Apostle Paul encountered similar opposition both to the message of grace available to all through Jesus, and to his calls for purity and holiness of heart among the believers. Christian life is a continual paradox. We are expected to live pure and holy lives. And yet we know that we cannot be perfect, so we trust in the merit obtained through Jesus as a salve for our troubled consciences. As Methodists we also have a heritage derived from the Oxford Movement, John & Charles Wesley, and the practice of belonging to accountability circles. Each of these urge everyone not to take our lives in Christ for granted, instead urging us to seek personal holiness, that which we commonly call “perfection.”
The practice of belonging to a study circle, or accountability group was integral to the growth of the Methodist movement in Britain. Long in remission in the United States, the Accountability Group is once again being revived in churches throughout the United States. Our General Board of Discipleship, supported by our apportionment dollars, provides excellent resources to assist local churches in starting and maintaining these covenant/accountability groups. In the groups, a commitment to confidentiality, care and concern for one another is established. From time to time members need to ask each other tough questions about where they are falling down in their Christian Life.
What are the hallmarks of being an Accountable Disciple? I have been referring to the "three simple rules," do no harm, do good, stay in love with God for daily guidance in Christian life as a summary of Wesley's preaching. This can be applied throughout each day.
In addition, whether you belong to a small group or not, Wesley’s model of faithful living as a member in the body of Christ stressed a practice of participation in four areas of life:
Acts of WorshipThrough these four arenas of life each person can examine one’s own progress in moving on toward perfection in Christian love. Wesley found in his ministry that belonging to a small covenant circle provided strength and encouragement on the journey of faith called life in Christ. It seems quite proven to be a timeless truth for faithful discipleship.
Acts of Devotion
Acts of Compassion
Acts of Justice
Living in these open spaces of the west, leads to very independent thinking, in spite of our interdependence upon one another. Belonging to a small group with the specific intent of lifting one another up on the Christian Journey may also seem very contrary to your nature. It’s certainly scary to become vulnerable to a group when we prefer to pretend we have no faults needing correction. Nevertheless, I would urge members to prayerfully seek guidance about forming a small circle of 6-8 Christian friends with a commitment to lifting up one another in a weekly meeting as an avenue to live out our call to Personal Holiness. The personal benefit you can expect is a deeper relationship with God and several brothers and sisters in the Lord.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Barbara
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Beginning the Journey
Lenten Journey
A Service of Self Guided Reflection
What would you have God change in you?
What would God want to see you change?
When we enter the season of Lent with these twin questions positioned as the main emphasis of Lent we are better able to find a renewed spirit to carry us along on the journey called life in Christ.
May this be a starting place in your journey.. The readings are those used on Ash Wednesday but can be referred to throughout the season of Lent.
Opening prayer
Scripture Lesson Joel 2:1, 12-17
The Psalmist writes “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only have I sinned, and done that which is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless in your judgment.” Human standards cannot come anywhere near the standards of Holiness that God holds. Knowing God to be perfect in all actions of first creating order out of the Chaos of the universe, we can fall into despair at our inability to achieve perfection. Should we then give up in such pursuit?
No.
Let us never give up in our pursuit of the perfection of Christian Love. Instead of despair, let us draw ever more closely to God through personal and social holiness. Because God has demonstrated love for all creation, we can take heart in the message of the gospel, and follow the advice that comes to us through the Gospel of Matthew.
Gospel Lesson Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Recalling again the twin focus for the season:
What would you have God change in you?
What would God want to see you change?
May you be renewed in spirit, finding peace and joy in the ever changing journey of devotion to Jesus, bringing glory to the One True God.
A Service of Self Guided Reflection
What would you have God change in you?
What would God want to see you change?
When we enter the season of Lent with these twin questions positioned as the main emphasis of Lent we are better able to find a renewed spirit to carry us along on the journey called life in Christ.
May this be a starting place in your journey.. The readings are those used on Ash Wednesday but can be referred to throughout the season of Lent.
Opening prayer
O God, maker of every thing and judge of all that you have made,
from the dust of the earth you formed Adam,
and from the dust of death you would raise us up.
By the redemptive power of the cross,
create in us clean hearts and put within us a new spirit,
that we may turn from our sins and lead lives worthy of your calling;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Scripture Lesson Joel 2:1, 12-17
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.”Psalm 51
“O Lord hear my prayer, O Lord, hear my prayer, come and listen to me”
The Psalmist writes “For I know my transgressions, and my sin is ever before me. Against you, you only have I sinned, and done that which is evil in your sight, so that you are justified in your sentence and blameless in your judgment.” Human standards cannot come anywhere near the standards of Holiness that God holds. Knowing God to be perfect in all actions of first creating order out of the Chaos of the universe, we can fall into despair at our inability to achieve perfection. Should we then give up in such pursuit?
No.
Let us never give up in our pursuit of the perfection of Christian Love. Instead of despair, let us draw ever more closely to God through personal and social holiness. Because God has demonstrated love for all creation, we can take heart in the message of the gospel, and follow the advice that comes to us through the Gospel of Matthew.
Gospel Lesson Matthew 6:1-6, 16-21
Recalling again the twin focus for the season:
What would you have God change in you?
What would God want to see you change?
May you be renewed in spirit, finding peace and joy in the ever changing journey of devotion to Jesus, bringing glory to the One True God.
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