Dinners, guests, family, Christmas programs (oops, I mean "holiday programs") and all the people trying to get the perfect gift for that less than perfect someone! It can be pretty exhausting this time of year.
I too am tired - and I like people!!
As a pastor I am always trying to get our church motivated to reach others for Jesus. "Reach your circles of influence." "Build Bridges of Love into the community." "Invite your neighbors to your Compass Group." "Volunteer for the Interactive Nativity." "Invite your kids' friends to Kid's Own Worship." And you may have heard even more impassioned pleas!
I too am tired - and I just got back from a sabbatical!!
But, I am not tired of talking about Jesus. You see, our success is not determined by the response of the individual to our message. Our success is determined by our obedience to the process. I have to remind myself daily - especially when I feel tired - that I am a success if I am obedient to do that to which I was called through scripture. We are called to make disciples.
It is easy to get discouraged, disappointed, bummed, depressed, and tired when we don't see the results. Every pastor knows that what determines success is buildings, butts(or bums for my parents), and budgets. And if those don't grow in number then . . .
Imagine going to the effort of planting a lawn. You till the soil several times to make sure you have 4-6 inches of soft soil. You then till in the peat and manure to get just the right balance. You rake it multiple times to make sure you have a smooth surface. Then comes the seeding and covering with straw. Sprinklers are a must for Colorado and you are prepared. Maybe you did it all in late fall and now you have to wait. And wait. And wait. On warm days it is important to water the seeds - so you do. And you wait. And wait.
Imagine spring came and then summer. The sprinklers worked properly but all you have to show for all your labor and efforts is 7 small patches of grass. Then you read in the landscaper's manual that if you followed the process - you are a success. Would you believe it?
In the area of outreach let me say - Harvest is a success. We have followed the process. We have been obedient. And the Holy Manual says that we are a success. Regardless of the size of our church, how nice our building is, or the size of our budget - we are demonstrating the love of Christ to our city. We are serving as a catalyst for spiritual change within our city.
Do not grow tired in doing good, for in the right season you will see the fruit of your labors, (Galatians 6:9).
12/11/2008
8/20/2008
How Can I Say Thanks?
Why is it that the bigger the gift is, the harder it is to say thanks?
It is like we have a self-reliance value and independent spirit that cries foul every time we have to acknowledge a gift. And when that gift is given we say thanks but the sincerity is rarely demonstrated.
Why is it that we have to train this into our children? Shouldn't they know from the time they are born that their existence is completely dependent upon us as their parents. Every once in a while we hear of parents either shaking their children into delirium, abandoning them in a dumpster, or even killing them. These should serve to remind us that we owe our parents a thank you for keeping us alive in the early years. But what about the sacrifices made so that we could go to school, play sports, live in a house, clothes, transportation, pets, and the list goes on.
It's easy to say thank you for dinner, but how can you express your gratitude for the last 5 years of sacrifice - or more? Why do husbands and wives not make it a regular practice to express and demonstrate gratitude to one another?
I wonder, would marriages be healthier if we said "thank you" more often than "I love you?" Or is it that we believe that we are the one who should be thanked? I simple "Thank you" can go a long way toward restoring a marriage, a friendship, a working relationship, and even builds unity on an athletic field.
So, why do we have such a hard time saying it and expressing it? We make our kids say it to the server at the ice cream shop, so why are we not grateful? Is it a spiritual issue. Let's take note of whether we are grateful and determine that we will be known as grateful people.
To the entire church community of HarvestDowntown, "Thank you for the sacrifices you made as a church and as individuals to allow me to opportunity to go on a 3-month sabbatical. It was a gift that I will treasure for the rest of my life. I am truly grateful to God for the privilege of pastoring a community like you. Thank you!"
It is like we have a self-reliance value and independent spirit that cries foul every time we have to acknowledge a gift. And when that gift is given we say thanks but the sincerity is rarely demonstrated.
Why is it that we have to train this into our children? Shouldn't they know from the time they are born that their existence is completely dependent upon us as their parents. Every once in a while we hear of parents either shaking their children into delirium, abandoning them in a dumpster, or even killing them. These should serve to remind us that we owe our parents a thank you for keeping us alive in the early years. But what about the sacrifices made so that we could go to school, play sports, live in a house, clothes, transportation, pets, and the list goes on.
It's easy to say thank you for dinner, but how can you express your gratitude for the last 5 years of sacrifice - or more? Why do husbands and wives not make it a regular practice to express and demonstrate gratitude to one another?
I wonder, would marriages be healthier if we said "thank you" more often than "I love you?" Or is it that we believe that we are the one who should be thanked? I simple "Thank you" can go a long way toward restoring a marriage, a friendship, a working relationship, and even builds unity on an athletic field.
So, why do we have such a hard time saying it and expressing it? We make our kids say it to the server at the ice cream shop, so why are we not grateful? Is it a spiritual issue. Let's take note of whether we are grateful and determine that we will be known as grateful people.
To the entire church community of HarvestDowntown, "Thank you for the sacrifices you made as a church and as individuals to allow me to opportunity to go on a 3-month sabbatical. It was a gift that I will treasure for the rest of my life. I am truly grateful to God for the privilege of pastoring a community like you. Thank you!"
6/14/2008
The Inner Burbs
So Sydney has a completely different feel than Canberra. If I were to say that to an Aussie, they would just look at me like I'm some dumb American - everybody knows that! The streets of Sydney are bustling with people from every continent - I think it has a similar "feel" to San Francisco. Within one block I distinctly heard at least 4 different languages other than English.
The downtown is reserved for the very wealthy and businesses. We stayed downtown for a couple of nights - and the city does sleep, just not until 2 in the morning. That is when they clean the streets and wash the sidewalks. I think I saw 2 homeless people during my three weeks in Australia - this aspect was nothing like San Francisco; or Colorado Springs for that matter. I think the street cleaning must have something to do with this.
The suburbs are other CBD's (Central Business Districts) placed around the main hub of Sydney. These each have their own "suburbs" and each has a certain socio-economic status associated with it. All of that to say - as you move away from downtown Sydney, the property gets cheaper and the socio-economic status drops. However, there are some suburbs away from the city center that are quite wealthy - this is where the local megachurch is located.
The first church I attended was a small Alliance church in a suburb of Blacktown known as Doonside. The church reflected much of what I saw on the streets of Sydney - people of every race speaking multiple languages. My first contact was the birthday party for the pastor of the church at another church's facility. The next morning I went to church with the pastor - but this time it was in a community center. I found out later that Doonside would be classified as "innercity" in an American city - but it is a suburb in Australia.
The formal greeters didn't greet us, but more people came up to us and said hello than at any other church. The music was dated and the sermon was long and very personal. But, don't let that fool you, this church is about the mission of Christ! I found out very quickly that Sunday morning is really just a family meeting for those who are working in the mission. And most of them are between 16 and 25 years old. For this reason there was not a need for childcare or a seniors ministry. If you talk about seniors they think you are referring to the older group of students in the youth ministry! I was invited to come see what they do during the week in the schools, and I will write about that in my next blog.
In the middle of the service they did the Grin & Greet and it was equally awkard for us as everyplace else that did it. Everything else was fairly standard, but at the end people were invited to stick around for coffee and tea - and a snack. This lasted for 2 hours, and it only ended then because the space was rented and they had to get out!
That night we made our way to the local megachurch. This was quite an experience. We came in through a glass front under a neon sign that said something about Jesus - in huge letters. Staight ahead was a bookstore with a line at the register that stretched into the lobby. The previous service had let out and there were people everywhere. Ushers were pointing us to the stairs since the main level was full. We made our way into the sanctuary and I picked up some super-cool brochures about the different ministries.
We walked through the upstairs door to find that the entire sanctuary has theater seats that are more comfortable than any theater I can afford! But there were no cupholders! But then I noticed that a little desktop folded out of the armrest so I could write down all my notes. Then the music started.
It started with the lights going out and video that bounced around among the three screens, the spots started dancing around the sanctuary and then focused upon the stage where the musicians began to rock. The floor in front of the stage began to heave in unison and soon it was a bouncing throng of young people all jumping up and down to the rythm of the music. I didn't know one song, but it was fun to bounce with everyone else - though they were all about half my age.
The main sermon was excellent and even the sermonette for the offering was good. But, when it came to the other speaking that happened - well let's just say that plugging the purchase of the sermon DVD or music CD or buying the pastor's latest book was just a little over the top for me and about made me puke. But, I guess they are proud of what they have produced! After the plugs the kids were released just before the sermon to giant kids, (costumes worn by volunteers to point the way).
At the end of the sermon we listened to a plug for all the volunteers they needed for the upcoming conference - of the 4500 they only needed a 1000 more! Then the music started up again with a different music leader, and soon the floor was heaving again. One of my favorite parts of the service was when the pastor had those who had a need raise their hand and those around them began to pray for them as he prayed. Yes, they did the Grin & Greet too, and yes it was awkward. However, it was so short that it really didn't matter.
On the way home, I noticed the C&MA logo on a building just a few blocks from the church - I wonder if they have three screens, giant kids, and a need for a 1000 volunteers to help park cars? I think I will go there this Sunday to find out!
The downtown is reserved for the very wealthy and businesses. We stayed downtown for a couple of nights - and the city does sleep, just not until 2 in the morning. That is when they clean the streets and wash the sidewalks. I think I saw 2 homeless people during my three weeks in Australia - this aspect was nothing like San Francisco; or Colorado Springs for that matter. I think the street cleaning must have something to do with this.
The suburbs are other CBD's (Central Business Districts) placed around the main hub of Sydney. These each have their own "suburbs" and each has a certain socio-economic status associated with it. All of that to say - as you move away from downtown Sydney, the property gets cheaper and the socio-economic status drops. However, there are some suburbs away from the city center that are quite wealthy - this is where the local megachurch is located.
The first church I attended was a small Alliance church in a suburb of Blacktown known as Doonside. The church reflected much of what I saw on the streets of Sydney - people of every race speaking multiple languages. My first contact was the birthday party for the pastor of the church at another church's facility. The next morning I went to church with the pastor - but this time it was in a community center. I found out later that Doonside would be classified as "innercity" in an American city - but it is a suburb in Australia.
The formal greeters didn't greet us, but more people came up to us and said hello than at any other church. The music was dated and the sermon was long and very personal. But, don't let that fool you, this church is about the mission of Christ! I found out very quickly that Sunday morning is really just a family meeting for those who are working in the mission. And most of them are between 16 and 25 years old. For this reason there was not a need for childcare or a seniors ministry. If you talk about seniors they think you are referring to the older group of students in the youth ministry! I was invited to come see what they do during the week in the schools, and I will write about that in my next blog.
In the middle of the service they did the Grin & Greet and it was equally awkard for us as everyplace else that did it. Everything else was fairly standard, but at the end people were invited to stick around for coffee and tea - and a snack. This lasted for 2 hours, and it only ended then because the space was rented and they had to get out!
That night we made our way to the local megachurch. This was quite an experience. We came in through a glass front under a neon sign that said something about Jesus - in huge letters. Staight ahead was a bookstore with a line at the register that stretched into the lobby. The previous service had let out and there were people everywhere. Ushers were pointing us to the stairs since the main level was full. We made our way into the sanctuary and I picked up some super-cool brochures about the different ministries.
We walked through the upstairs door to find that the entire sanctuary has theater seats that are more comfortable than any theater I can afford! But there were no cupholders! But then I noticed that a little desktop folded out of the armrest so I could write down all my notes. Then the music started.
It started with the lights going out and video that bounced around among the three screens, the spots started dancing around the sanctuary and then focused upon the stage where the musicians began to rock. The floor in front of the stage began to heave in unison and soon it was a bouncing throng of young people all jumping up and down to the rythm of the music. I didn't know one song, but it was fun to bounce with everyone else - though they were all about half my age.
The main sermon was excellent and even the sermonette for the offering was good. But, when it came to the other speaking that happened - well let's just say that plugging the purchase of the sermon DVD or music CD or buying the pastor's latest book was just a little over the top for me and about made me puke. But, I guess they are proud of what they have produced! After the plugs the kids were released just before the sermon to giant kids, (costumes worn by volunteers to point the way).
At the end of the sermon we listened to a plug for all the volunteers they needed for the upcoming conference - of the 4500 they only needed a 1000 more! Then the music started up again with a different music leader, and soon the floor was heaving again. One of my favorite parts of the service was when the pastor had those who had a need raise their hand and those around them began to pray for them as he prayed. Yes, they did the Grin & Greet too, and yes it was awkward. However, it was so short that it really didn't matter.
On the way home, I noticed the C&MA logo on a building just a few blocks from the church - I wonder if they have three screens, giant kids, and a need for a 1000 volunteers to help park cars? I think I will go there this Sunday to find out!
6/08/2008
Two Aussie Churches
The first church visit was a suburban church that is connected to the Bible College of the Alliance in Australia - that is the subject of another blog. We had met the pastor earlier in the week, and found that the church is in the midst of some major change. The pastor and the elders want to move the church to be more focused upon the lost, while there are some in the church who want "their needs met." This was evident in the music - they are "fighting" the music "wars" that the American church fought in the "90's." There are some in the church who would rather make the church into a refuge from the world rather than viewing the church as a mission outpost that should serve as a refuge for the world.
It seems that when the world presses in on the church her members get consumed by one of two options - run from the world or run to the world. Interestingly, the ones in the minority seem to hold those in the majority captive to a false sense of mission. How is that possible? It generally hinges on two things: The perception that to "be fed" is to be taught/educated/instructed/preached at; the other is the idea that unless everyone is on board then it cannot be from God (this sometimes come from a false teaching about unity).
Anyway, the church seems to be trying to move forward in the mission of Christ and theological discussions and philosophical debate is hamstringing the church in her mission. However, when the time came for the children and young people to leave the service, half of the seats were left vacant. I concluded that if the young people are being reached with the gospel and they are engaged in the mission of Christ - the church in Australia will do quite well in the years to come.
Our second visit was to the downtown campus of a church in the suburbs. This campus has its own leadership team but the pastor is the same for both campuses. The church is located in the center of the main bus interchange of the city in an upstairs loft. They meet on a Sunday night and the sermon is the same sermon preached at the suburban campus in the morning. As we walked up to the church the sign had a video playing with "church highlights." This was intriguing, but it was still difficult to find the right door.
At the top of the stairs we were greeted warmly, but as soon as they heard our accent they knowingly greeted us as the "pastor and his wife from America coming to check out the Australian church." This was fine in that we were honored by the community, but I am not sure how much it affected my "observation." I had met with the pastor of this community prior to going to this church as well. Seems that they are further down the path of being missional, but he painted a pretty bleak picture of the Australian culture and its acceptance of the church. Maybe this is why the church is moving in this direction.
The service was a different service (for them) in that there were no lyrics to the music. Prior to each song, the leader would read a few verses and then the music (drums & lead guitar) would play for about 8 minutes. The sanctuary was dark other than the stage and they took communion (crackers and cups). However, after the service they all had a meal together and played games - everyone was invited as a group and individually by multiple people. The one weakness that I picked up from the site coordinator and the pastor is that a great deal of effort has been placed upon the service and they are now realizing that just because they have a cool service, unchurched people are not going to come. They are now strategizing how to go into the city and engage the culture and the unchurched where they are rather than waiting for the unchurched to come in.
I liked the family atmosphere of the first church that concluded with coffee and kids running around under our feet as we drank coffee/tea and talked. There were no children in the second church, I understand those families go to the suburban campus. Why is that?
It seems that when the world presses in on the church her members get consumed by one of two options - run from the world or run to the world. Interestingly, the ones in the minority seem to hold those in the majority captive to a false sense of mission. How is that possible? It generally hinges on two things: The perception that to "be fed" is to be taught/educated/instructed/preached at; the other is the idea that unless everyone is on board then it cannot be from God (this sometimes come from a false teaching about unity).
Anyway, the church seems to be trying to move forward in the mission of Christ and theological discussions and philosophical debate is hamstringing the church in her mission. However, when the time came for the children and young people to leave the service, half of the seats were left vacant. I concluded that if the young people are being reached with the gospel and they are engaged in the mission of Christ - the church in Australia will do quite well in the years to come.
Our second visit was to the downtown campus of a church in the suburbs. This campus has its own leadership team but the pastor is the same for both campuses. The church is located in the center of the main bus interchange of the city in an upstairs loft. They meet on a Sunday night and the sermon is the same sermon preached at the suburban campus in the morning. As we walked up to the church the sign had a video playing with "church highlights." This was intriguing, but it was still difficult to find the right door.
At the top of the stairs we were greeted warmly, but as soon as they heard our accent they knowingly greeted us as the "pastor and his wife from America coming to check out the Australian church." This was fine in that we were honored by the community, but I am not sure how much it affected my "observation." I had met with the pastor of this community prior to going to this church as well. Seems that they are further down the path of being missional, but he painted a pretty bleak picture of the Australian culture and its acceptance of the church. Maybe this is why the church is moving in this direction.
The service was a different service (for them) in that there were no lyrics to the music. Prior to each song, the leader would read a few verses and then the music (drums & lead guitar) would play for about 8 minutes. The sanctuary was dark other than the stage and they took communion (crackers and cups). However, after the service they all had a meal together and played games - everyone was invited as a group and individually by multiple people. The one weakness that I picked up from the site coordinator and the pastor is that a great deal of effort has been placed upon the service and they are now realizing that just because they have a cool service, unchurched people are not going to come. They are now strategizing how to go into the city and engage the culture and the unchurched where they are rather than waiting for the unchurched to come in.
I liked the family atmosphere of the first church that concluded with coffee and kids running around under our feet as we drank coffee/tea and talked. There were no children in the second church, I understand those families go to the suburban campus. Why is that?
6/07/2008
An Aussie Perspective
So my wife and I went to two Aussie (Ozzy, NOT Ossy!) churches last weekend. It seems there is a variety of churches here just as in America. Different styles and methods are used by different churches to reach different people.
Our first stop was in Canberra - the capital of Australia. This city is smaller than Colorado Springs and is not close to any other major metropolitan center. The city struck us as a huge suburb in that there is virtually no industry beyond the government in Canberra. In fact 48% of the population is in some sort of public service and another large percentage are private contractors who have been contracted by the government. Because it is the capital, there are many internationals living in Canberra and the diversity for a city of about 300,000 is striking.
We met with the president of the Alliance Church of Australia. His goal and objective for the Alliance churches in Australia is to move every church to be missional in its philosophy and practice. The desire to reach lost people is understood by the Australian Church because they have seen their nation's church attendance and adherence to the faith dwindle with each passing year to the lowest point in the nation's history. At this point only 5% of Australians attend church regularly, while only 20% indicated "Christian" in the latest census conducted by the government. (If you are wondering, all of these are but a fraction of the United States figures.) Therein is why the Australian Church recognizes that if they do not focus on lost people - then the church will cease to exist within the next 50 years. Still, there is a conflict stemming from resistance to the mission of Christ within the church of Australia.
Our first stop was in Canberra - the capital of Australia. This city is smaller than Colorado Springs and is not close to any other major metropolitan center. The city struck us as a huge suburb in that there is virtually no industry beyond the government in Canberra. In fact 48% of the population is in some sort of public service and another large percentage are private contractors who have been contracted by the government. Because it is the capital, there are many internationals living in Canberra and the diversity for a city of about 300,000 is striking.
We met with the president of the Alliance Church of Australia. His goal and objective for the Alliance churches in Australia is to move every church to be missional in its philosophy and practice. The desire to reach lost people is understood by the Australian Church because they have seen their nation's church attendance and adherence to the faith dwindle with each passing year to the lowest point in the nation's history. At this point only 5% of Australians attend church regularly, while only 20% indicated "Christian" in the latest census conducted by the government. (If you are wondering, all of these are but a fraction of the United States figures.) Therein is why the Australian Church recognizes that if they do not focus on lost people - then the church will cease to exist within the next 50 years. Still, there is a conflict stemming from resistance to the mission of Christ within the church of Australia.
5/30/2008
Stand Up, Sit Down, Fight, Fight, Fight!
So a friend of mine and I went to visit the Presbyterians a couple of weeks ago. Then my wife and I went to the First Church of the Soccermom the following week. Interesting contrast between the two, but at the same time there were some striking similarities.
Upon arrival at the Presbyterian church my friend and I found ourselves running a bit late. Interestingly, no matter what time I leave I have not been on time to church yet. There is always something that comes up. As we arrived we followed some people into the building, it seems there are a lot of people that are late! So, the door we entered was on the side of the building thus prompting my friend to ask, "Is this the right entrance?"
We found our way to the sanctuary, passing the choir getting ready for the processional. I thought about jumping in line, but it seemed a bit inappropriate! Besides, my friend had brought his daughter and we had to find out what was available for her during the service - there was nothing. However, they were kind enough to provide pens in the pews for the children to draw.
Once we found our seat, we realized that all the information needed for the service could be found in the bulletin - 11x14 with small print. There was a short list of weekly activities and events - most of which were on Sunday (except for 2 Bible studies and the 2 choir practices). The rest of the bulletin/program was dedicated to the hour and fifteen minute worship service. All the scripture, the readings and hymn numbers were found here. We were able to follow along quite easily once my friend was able to finally figure out how to juggle his daughter with the bulletin - I could sense his frustration as we had to stand up for a reading that was in the bulletin. All the contents fell out onto the concrete floor and gently floated up to the next row. After getting on his knees to gather the materials he stood up to join in the last sentence of the scripture reading.
We were never told to stand or to sit (all the information was in the bulletin) and nor were we told which hymn to turn to (printed in the bulletin). There was one exception to this, at the end of the service we were told which verses to sing since the sermon had gone a bit long and we had to finish on time. We had one of those grin & greet times where we met one of the elders - nice guy. But for the most part we just stood there as all the regulars greeted one another. Interestingly, this time followed a hymn and the song leader's statement, "Tell the person next to you, 'Isn't this the best news you have heard all morning?'" I wondered what the unchurched person would do with that?
The sermon was good, my friend's daughter had to go to the bathroom, so he didn't have much of an opinion on that. The infant baptism was very similar to our child dedication but only those who were members were allowed to participate in the covenant. As we left we walked by everyone and nobody said "hello" or "goodbye." Come to think of it, nobody greeted us as we came in - but they did hand us each a bulletin.
The following week we went to the church of the soccermom. The people were friendly, but we were not visitors, though it was our first Sunday in attendance. As the referees went through their various rituals questions were freely asked about why certain rituals were practiced in this strange "religion." Each member was given the opportunity to offer their opinion and their was corporate celebration and some time for lament. At the end, all the members were invited to a shared meal where we all got to know one another fairly well. My wife and I were able to get to know a single mom who is a doctor and therefore unable to attend the "services" regularly. The upcoming weekly events are communicated either via email or by word of mouth, but all the members know what is going on because they take personal responsibility to know.
We are going to see how the Aussies do it next. I wonder, do they "Grin & Greet?" Do they have "Cups & Crackers?" Or do they share a full meal?
Upon arrival at the Presbyterian church my friend and I found ourselves running a bit late. Interestingly, no matter what time I leave I have not been on time to church yet. There is always something that comes up. As we arrived we followed some people into the building, it seems there are a lot of people that are late! So, the door we entered was on the side of the building thus prompting my friend to ask, "Is this the right entrance?"
We found our way to the sanctuary, passing the choir getting ready for the processional. I thought about jumping in line, but it seemed a bit inappropriate! Besides, my friend had brought his daughter and we had to find out what was available for her during the service - there was nothing. However, they were kind enough to provide pens in the pews for the children to draw.
Once we found our seat, we realized that all the information needed for the service could be found in the bulletin - 11x14 with small print. There was a short list of weekly activities and events - most of which were on Sunday (except for 2 Bible studies and the 2 choir practices). The rest of the bulletin/program was dedicated to the hour and fifteen minute worship service. All the scripture, the readings and hymn numbers were found here. We were able to follow along quite easily once my friend was able to finally figure out how to juggle his daughter with the bulletin - I could sense his frustration as we had to stand up for a reading that was in the bulletin. All the contents fell out onto the concrete floor and gently floated up to the next row. After getting on his knees to gather the materials he stood up to join in the last sentence of the scripture reading.
We were never told to stand or to sit (all the information was in the bulletin) and nor were we told which hymn to turn to (printed in the bulletin). There was one exception to this, at the end of the service we were told which verses to sing since the sermon had gone a bit long and we had to finish on time. We had one of those grin & greet times where we met one of the elders - nice guy. But for the most part we just stood there as all the regulars greeted one another. Interestingly, this time followed a hymn and the song leader's statement, "Tell the person next to you, 'Isn't this the best news you have heard all morning?'" I wondered what the unchurched person would do with that?
The sermon was good, my friend's daughter had to go to the bathroom, so he didn't have much of an opinion on that. The infant baptism was very similar to our child dedication but only those who were members were allowed to participate in the covenant. As we left we walked by everyone and nobody said "hello" or "goodbye." Come to think of it, nobody greeted us as we came in - but they did hand us each a bulletin.
The following week we went to the church of the soccermom. The people were friendly, but we were not visitors, though it was our first Sunday in attendance. As the referees went through their various rituals questions were freely asked about why certain rituals were practiced in this strange "religion." Each member was given the opportunity to offer their opinion and their was corporate celebration and some time for lament. At the end, all the members were invited to a shared meal where we all got to know one another fairly well. My wife and I were able to get to know a single mom who is a doctor and therefore unable to attend the "services" regularly. The upcoming weekly events are communicated either via email or by word of mouth, but all the members know what is going on because they take personal responsibility to know.
We are going to see how the Aussies do it next. I wonder, do they "Grin & Greet?" Do they have "Cups & Crackers?" Or do they share a full meal?
5/14/2008
Two Churches in the Burbs
Being the pastor of a church downtown, I wanted to visit some suburban American churches. When we first moved to Colorado Springs we lived downtown and pastored downtown, but we couldn't afford to buy downtown. We bought a home in the burbs - that place where they level the hills and name streets after them. In most cities it is that place where they cut down the trees and name streets after them - but there were no trees there to begin with in Colorado Springs!
Anyway, as you may note I have a bias for the urban centers. I like the diversity and the overall flavor of the downtown of a fairly major urban center. I like the fact that I have to explain to my kids why two women are holding hands. I like having to give my kids some change to give to the homeless guy in front of the restaurant. I like not noticing that the owners of one of my favorite restaurants speak with a heavy Iranian accent. I like going to church where someone of any race could walk through the doors and not feel different from everyone else.
My first Sunday I went to a church pastored by a good friend of mine. The music was good but dated, the sermon was good and relevant, the building had incredible views that inspired me to worship the Creator. I was welcomed by four greeters with name tags as I entered the building - but nobody gave me a bulletin, oops! I found a seat in the back and joined in the singing. After the first couple of songs we were told to greet those around us - I didn't know anyone and felt awkward. Then the pastor and his wife spotted me and made their way over to me and invited me to sit with them.
Later in the service the music leader told us to turn toward the center aisle and sing to the people across the aisle - awkwardness again. However, as we were singing someone on the other side of the church recognized me and waved - very cool! The attendance was low for the early service, but the church was an average suburban church of 250-300 people at their weekend services. Communion was served after the message - crackers and cups (Individual cups of grape juice and a broken piece of unleavened bread served separately by the elders of the church). Having grown up in the Evangelical church, it was very familiar to me - too bad my friend couldn't come.
The second church I attended was also in the burbs but was much bigger. I found my parking space along with the other 5000 people and made my way to the big building. I was greeted by 4 people again - I also got a bulletin (more like a great marketing brochure). I arrived a couple minutes late and walked into the service while the pastor was greeting everyone and setting the stage for the video - very smooth! It took me a second to realize that he wasn't in the building but about 7 miles away at their satellite campus. At the end of the video he offered the prayer of blessing and invited us to greet the people around us - awkward again! But this time I wasn't the only one who didn't know anybody! Nobody knew anyone!
So the music was excellent, fresh and new - I barely noticed how two of the songs were not led by the team in our building but by those at the satellite campus. But we got the speaker and they had to watch him on the big screen! Great sermon, not one "umm" and there were three jokes and two emotional illustrations. At the end of the message, about 10% of the church got up and left even though the service was still very much "alive." The pastor - not there - invited anyone who needed prayer to come to the front or go to one of the guest booths in the foyer. He then blessed everyone and we left while the band played the "theme song" for the service, (I found myself humming that song for the next hour or so).
My only regret for the first two Sundays of my sabbatical, is that my friend is not feeling well enough to go with me. I would have loved to hear his perspective. Well, I might have recruited another friend for this week as we visit the Presbyterians - I wonder if they drink out of little cups too?
Anyway, as you may note I have a bias for the urban centers. I like the diversity and the overall flavor of the downtown of a fairly major urban center. I like the fact that I have to explain to my kids why two women are holding hands. I like having to give my kids some change to give to the homeless guy in front of the restaurant. I like not noticing that the owners of one of my favorite restaurants speak with a heavy Iranian accent. I like going to church where someone of any race could walk through the doors and not feel different from everyone else.
My first Sunday I went to a church pastored by a good friend of mine. The music was good but dated, the sermon was good and relevant, the building had incredible views that inspired me to worship the Creator. I was welcomed by four greeters with name tags as I entered the building - but nobody gave me a bulletin, oops! I found a seat in the back and joined in the singing. After the first couple of songs we were told to greet those around us - I didn't know anyone and felt awkward. Then the pastor and his wife spotted me and made their way over to me and invited me to sit with them.
Later in the service the music leader told us to turn toward the center aisle and sing to the people across the aisle - awkwardness again. However, as we were singing someone on the other side of the church recognized me and waved - very cool! The attendance was low for the early service, but the church was an average suburban church of 250-300 people at their weekend services. Communion was served after the message - crackers and cups (Individual cups of grape juice and a broken piece of unleavened bread served separately by the elders of the church). Having grown up in the Evangelical church, it was very familiar to me - too bad my friend couldn't come.
The second church I attended was also in the burbs but was much bigger. I found my parking space along with the other 5000 people and made my way to the big building. I was greeted by 4 people again - I also got a bulletin (more like a great marketing brochure). I arrived a couple minutes late and walked into the service while the pastor was greeting everyone and setting the stage for the video - very smooth! It took me a second to realize that he wasn't in the building but about 7 miles away at their satellite campus. At the end of the video he offered the prayer of blessing and invited us to greet the people around us - awkward again! But this time I wasn't the only one who didn't know anybody! Nobody knew anyone!
So the music was excellent, fresh and new - I barely noticed how two of the songs were not led by the team in our building but by those at the satellite campus. But we got the speaker and they had to watch him on the big screen! Great sermon, not one "umm" and there were three jokes and two emotional illustrations. At the end of the message, about 10% of the church got up and left even though the service was still very much "alive." The pastor - not there - invited anyone who needed prayer to come to the front or go to one of the guest booths in the foyer. He then blessed everyone and we left while the band played the "theme song" for the service, (I found myself humming that song for the next hour or so).
My only regret for the first two Sundays of my sabbatical, is that my friend is not feeling well enough to go with me. I would have loved to hear his perspective. Well, I might have recruited another friend for this week as we visit the Presbyterians - I wonder if they drink out of little cups too?
4/15/2008
Sabbath Rest
"Early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house, and went out to a solitary place where he prayed." Early in the summer, while there was still a threat of snow, Kurt got up, left the church, and went into secular society where he listened.
Starting May 1st I will be going on a Sabbatical for three months. In my mind, a Sabbatical is not just a time of rest and relaxation, but a time to refocus, redirect, and revive. Harvest has the policy that every 7 years a pastor is to take a three month sabbatical for the purpose of spiritual formation. I have been the pastor of Harvest since November 1999.
Later that day, the disciples went looking for Jesus and when they found him they informed him that the masses of people were looking for him as well. To this Jesus responded, "Let us go somewhere else - to the other villages, so I can preach there as well." Focus of purpose and direction comes from getting away to a solitary place.
The value of a Sabbath has been recorded from the creation of the world. After creating the world, God rested. Not because He needed to do so, but because man needs a Sabbath. We were not created to fulfill the Sabbath, but the Sabbath was created to fulfill us. It amazes me how many people feel there is no need for a Sabbath. Let me say, we all need a Sabbath to refocus, redirect, and revive ourselves for the days to come. My goal is not to just sit and watch the grass grow. (Although, I will take some time to watch the sun set!)
I have a goal for my sabbatical: To understand how the Church can be the Church in an increasingly secular society. So to that end, I will be attending several churches here in the Springs with a self-proclaimed secular friend of mine. Then, Terasue and I are going to visit the Church in Australia to see how they minister to the most secular, English-speaking country. Following Australia, I hope to somehow document my findings and experiences and coagulate some sort of conclusion that will make the Church more effective in fulfilling the ministry of reconciliation of people to God.
During my sabbatical, you may want to check my blog weekly as I will give updates and thoughts regarding my experiences and those around me.
Starting May 1st I will be going on a Sabbatical for three months. In my mind, a Sabbatical is not just a time of rest and relaxation, but a time to refocus, redirect, and revive. Harvest has the policy that every 7 years a pastor is to take a three month sabbatical for the purpose of spiritual formation. I have been the pastor of Harvest since November 1999.
Later that day, the disciples went looking for Jesus and when they found him they informed him that the masses of people were looking for him as well. To this Jesus responded, "Let us go somewhere else - to the other villages, so I can preach there as well." Focus of purpose and direction comes from getting away to a solitary place.
The value of a Sabbath has been recorded from the creation of the world. After creating the world, God rested. Not because He needed to do so, but because man needs a Sabbath. We were not created to fulfill the Sabbath, but the Sabbath was created to fulfill us. It amazes me how many people feel there is no need for a Sabbath. Let me say, we all need a Sabbath to refocus, redirect, and revive ourselves for the days to come. My goal is not to just sit and watch the grass grow. (Although, I will take some time to watch the sun set!)
I have a goal for my sabbatical: To understand how the Church can be the Church in an increasingly secular society. So to that end, I will be attending several churches here in the Springs with a self-proclaimed secular friend of mine. Then, Terasue and I are going to visit the Church in Australia to see how they minister to the most secular, English-speaking country. Following Australia, I hope to somehow document my findings and experiences and coagulate some sort of conclusion that will make the Church more effective in fulfilling the ministry of reconciliation of people to God.
During my sabbatical, you may want to check my blog weekly as I will give updates and thoughts regarding my experiences and those around me.
2/06/2008
Suffering Redemption
So I guess I have been a little lazy in posting my blogs! So here is the latest installment for your perusal.
Why do some people get sick, others stay healthy and still others die painful and gruelling deaths? Why is it that some pray to be delivered from an addiction and are immediately healed while others struggle with alchohol for the rest of their lives? Why is it that some are delivered from the bondage of abuse while still others endure it for a lifetime? Why is it that some children live in the bondage of poverty and others are spoiled by abundance - both condemned it seems to me.
The question of human suffering is one that seems to be asked by all critical thinkers at some point in their spiritual quest. I cannot say that I have an answer, but I do have a response. All I can say is that it has to do with the Glory of His Name.
I cannot determine what will honor God more: A woman who has no motor skills but the use of her facial muscles or an athelete who points to heaven after a touchdown. I cannot say whether preaching a sermon with a strong voice is more effective than preaching from one's deathbed. I cannot say why or what brings God the most glory - but I do believe He will bring glory and honor to His name - not to mine!
However, doesn't He still heal? Absolutely! And, He still performs miracles everyday. Should we ask for these healings and miracles? Absolutely, He is our Father and He will do what is best for His children so long as it brings Honor and Glory to His Name. This is not to be fatalistic, but rather to live by faith in a Good God who loves His children. He does love each one of us more than we love ourselves - but He wants us to love Him more than we love ourselves.
Do we expect Him to do what is best for us or for Him? Do you do what is best for your computer or for you? Do you what is best for your art or what is best for you? If we are God's creation, how could we possibly expect the Creator to do what is best for us over and above what is best for Him?
But that is just it, in His Divine Providence He did something incredible: He being God became nothing; taking on the very nature of a man, and became obedient even unto death. And it not only benefited man, but brought Glory to the Father.
Why do some people get sick, others stay healthy and still others die painful and gruelling deaths? Why is it that some pray to be delivered from an addiction and are immediately healed while others struggle with alchohol for the rest of their lives? Why is it that some are delivered from the bondage of abuse while still others endure it for a lifetime? Why is it that some children live in the bondage of poverty and others are spoiled by abundance - both condemned it seems to me.
The question of human suffering is one that seems to be asked by all critical thinkers at some point in their spiritual quest. I cannot say that I have an answer, but I do have a response. All I can say is that it has to do with the Glory of His Name.
I cannot determine what will honor God more: A woman who has no motor skills but the use of her facial muscles or an athelete who points to heaven after a touchdown. I cannot say whether preaching a sermon with a strong voice is more effective than preaching from one's deathbed. I cannot say why or what brings God the most glory - but I do believe He will bring glory and honor to His name - not to mine!
However, doesn't He still heal? Absolutely! And, He still performs miracles everyday. Should we ask for these healings and miracles? Absolutely, He is our Father and He will do what is best for His children so long as it brings Honor and Glory to His Name. This is not to be fatalistic, but rather to live by faith in a Good God who loves His children. He does love each one of us more than we love ourselves - but He wants us to love Him more than we love ourselves.
Do we expect Him to do what is best for us or for Him? Do you do what is best for your computer or for you? Do you what is best for your art or what is best for you? If we are God's creation, how could we possibly expect the Creator to do what is best for us over and above what is best for Him?
But that is just it, in His Divine Providence He did something incredible: He being God became nothing; taking on the very nature of a man, and became obedient even unto death. And it not only benefited man, but brought Glory to the Father.
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