Kurt's Deep Thoughts

Change the Kaleidoscope

2010-02-23T09:46:00.003-07:00

Is change always good? Why do we resist change? Is God a God of change? Doesn't He stay the same?

God is a God of change though He never changes. Malachi (The great Italian prophet) quotes God, "I the LORD do not change." But yet isn't He the God of change?

So much of the Bible is about change. God changed Abram's name, worldview, family, land, and even faith. God changed the descendants of Jacob from servants to owners. God changed a prince of Egypt into a wilderness shepherd into a leader of a nation. He changed another shepherd into a warrior and then into a king. It seems that God is always changing people's lives - and mine is no different.

But, then why do we resist change?

Shouldn't we eagerly anticipate change in our lives? Or is it that we are so smug in our current situation that we think we don't need change?

Life changes happen together. (There is actually a scale that measures the changes in some one's life and sets a quotient for when changes in worldview and faith occur)

Whether it is a tragedy or a positive event like the birth of a child or a marriage; change brings about a reordering of our lives. Like a kaleidoscope. Sometimes we need these changes and sometimes we need to rethink our perspective on life.

What is God shaking up in your life? How is your worldview being reordered? What new colors and shapes are coming into view? The question is not, "Why me?" The question is, "What do You want?" (This is not to say that we can't ask God to spare us from the trial or tribulation that seems to engulf us as a massive wave.)

May God turn the dial on my kaleidoscope, may He reorder my worldview.

The Trouble with the Self-Righteous

2009-05-12T12:34:00.005-06:00

The conversation of our discourse this week had to do with the calling of Levi - the tax collector. We looked at the trouble with the self-righteous vs. those who recognize their need for a savior. The question I received after the service was "How can we resolve conflict with a self-righteous believer?"

The trouble with the self-righteous is that they don't believe they have done anything wrong. Their morality is based upon popular opinion and comparisons with others. Self-righteous people are not necessarily righteous - in fact I would argue that they are the least righteous. They do not realize that they are in the wrong and they believe they are better than most.

Lest we begin to point the finger at "those" people, let me first say that all of us are self-righteous. This is why more than 80% of all drivers believe that they are an "above-average" driver. We love to call people hypocrites - or posers - or actors (they all mean the same thing). However, to do so is to be one yourself.

Might I suggest that the best way to resolve conflict with a self-righteous person is to first recognize that the conflict is probably your fault - not theirs. If you are convinced that the problem is not you but the other person is convinced it is you, then that is when a third party is involved. This is why Jesus tells us to confront someone individually first, then with someone else.

I once was asked to go with someone to confront them - suprisingly it ended up being that the person who asked me to come was the problem in the relationship. Hmmm...

Someone said to me after church, "My self-righteousness is found in my belief that I am not self-righteous and I tend to judge those who are self-righteous and that is my self-righteousness." That is the reality - humility is the opposite of self-righteousness. But humility is not to be self-abasing, but the recognition of who we really are. Jesus was never self-abasing but was the most humble person to walk the earth.

May we be people who serve Christ in humility - knowing who we are and how we got here. This will go a long way toward the resolution of conflict.

Women and Silence

2009-04-09T10:00:00.003-06:00

I am currently preaching on the importance of being a Spiritual Church - not just a community or a building. In this context the current discourse is on how the church should be a supernatural organism that exists in the spiritual and the physical. On Palm Sunday we discussed, actually I lectured, on the importance and role of the Gifts of the Spirit in a Spiritual Church.

Two people raised questions about women in the church. The context of the questions came from 1 Corinthians 14. Should women be silent in the church? How do we know this is a cultural statement?

There are some clues in this passage that indicate Paul's intent. First, he is giving other orderly ways that the church should conduct herself. He is most concerned about how the church is perceived by those who come in from the outside and whether the church is doing things in an orderly and fitting manner. He gives some instructions: some of which are more relevant to the church in America today and others less so.

Peace comes from God, but order is defined by culture and context.

Everything from verse 26 through 38 is the cultural application of the doctrine of the gifts outlined in the previous discourse. Note vs. 26, "What shall we say..." and then vs. 39, "Therefore, my brothers..." One is the beginning of the discourse on cultural application of the universal principle and the other is the conclusion of the application and the conclusion of the "sermon on the Gifts" that began in 12:1. Therefore, I also would concur that the "2, or at the most 3 prophets" reference of verse 29 is also cultural - but it is relevant to our culture today. "Orderly & fitting" is impossible without exegeting the culture as well as the scripture.

Second, Paul was certainly not against women serving in ministry. One of Paul's disciples was Priscilla, the wife of Aquila, who together were gifted missionaries. Some have argued that Priscilla was the teacher and prophet while Aquila was the administrator. This is not a hugely strong argument other than the issue that Priscilla is always listed first in the book of Acts - something Luke did. He always listed the primary speaker first, (Paul & Silas, Paul & Timothy, Barnabas & Paul and then Paul & Barnabas, Peter & John, etc.).

This has direct bearing on our passage because it gives us understanding that what Paul is trying to communicate to the church in Corinth is that having women speaking in their context was not fitting and orderly. Paul knew Corinth -- he understood the context.

A Vibrant Church is one that knows the culture and context in which She ministers and speaks into the culture in such a manner that the culture itself is transformed.

Order vs. Freedom

2009-03-31T10:24:00.002-06:00

When I am driving I like to know that the person next to me is going to stay in their lane. There is nothing more frustrating than when I am obeying the rules and my freedoms are encroached upon by someone not obeying the rules of the road.

Freedom is not the same as anarchy. Anarchy, in fact, is one of the greatest infractions of freedom. The freedom to travel across America is guaranteed by the order given by the rules of the road. Try and drive across a developing country the size of Colorado - the rules are really just suggestions. You can get there, just not very easily! In fact, I know it can take a day or two because cows, goats, chickens, and sheep make passage on the state highways difficult. This does not take into account the risk to life and limb, nor the buses that stop at any moment the driver jolly well pleases!

However, freedom can be equally stifled by rules. I have heard of places that determine how far you can go in a day, how many people can ride in the car, what roads you can take, and how unsafe you can or cannot be in the car while it is moving.

The same is true when the church gathers for worship as a community.

If a church wants to know the freedom of expression in worship as well as seeing the glory of God, there have to be some guidelines in order for the freedom to exist. There are also rules established in Scripture that assure the freedom of the church - these are principles that should always be followed. The guidelines are culturally relevant for the context and the individual church. The rules are always true anyplace and everywhere.

Most of the rules established in Scripture have to do with interpersonal relationships, but there are also some rules regarding the gifts of the Spirit (1 Co. 12-14). But even these rules are connected with how the parts of the Body relate to one another. Some of the "rules" are obviously guidelines in that they are directly related to the context in which an individual church is located. Hence, the rule one could take from the guidelines in Scripture would be, "Honor God in a way that is consistent with the manner in which the culture honors people."

The goal of every church is to provide enough order so that people feel free to worship and enough freedom that people do not feel stifled in worship. A vibrant church is one that has found the balance that works for the context in which they are located and is also sensitive to the community of the church itself.

It is like finding the sweet spot on a bat. Sometimes you hit it, and sometimes you don't. When you hit the spot there is no pain and the ball is sent into the bleachers in left field. When you miss horribly, you experience a rattle in your hands that somehow makes it way to your teeth. Most of us have experienced both - sometimes in the same service!! But, honestly, most of the time we just come close to the sweet spot.

Maybe this is why the Vibrant Church is not centered on the Weekly Community Worship Event...

Covenant or Contract

2009-03-17T11:27:00.003-06:00

It seems that everyone is living under some sort of covenant anymore. In the words of Inigo Montoya, "I do not think that word means what you think it means."

There are covenants for neighborhoods and schools. It seems these are more like parlay (Pirates of the Caribbean) - "They are really more like guidelines." However, is this the meaning of covenant? Is it really more like a guideline?

I made the statement on Sunday that we should have covenantal marriages instead of contractual marriages. This raised the question, "What's the difference between Covenant and Contract as it relates to marriage."

We are such a capitalistic society that it seems we describe everything in financial terms. Lest you think I'm out to lunch on this, let's think about the bottom line on this. I mean, shouldn't we take an account of our situation? Is this really an asset or a liability? Maybe we should compile a balance sheet of pros and cons?

So, it is no wonder that we have taken the most intimate of relationships turned it into a contractual agreement!

So this brings me to why I think this is a big deal.

As a church we lost the battle over marriage when we allowed the government to perform the role of the church. For instance, would we let the government perform a funeral? Why not? And would we let government tell us how to worship or tell us what to preach? Why not? Because those are religious "institutions." In the same way, marriage is inherently a religious institution. It only has meaning in the context of the church because marriage has its roots in religion - not government.

But what about those who are not religious, can't they get married? No, they can have a civil union, but that is not marriage - marriage is a religious term. When a couple gets their marriage license, anyone can sign it (in Colorado). I would argue that it is not a marriage license as much as a certificate of civil union. If they want a marriage, they should receive their marriage certificate from the church.

But, that is not what we have in our society... This is actually the result of having a government founded with only one major religion in mind and wanting to support the primary religion of the culture. Therefore, it was the church's fault for allowing the government to "support" her.

Now, back to the real question. What is the difference between covenant and contract?

Covenants cannot be broken except by death - the shedding of blood. A contract can be nullified by either party breaching the terms of the contract.

Biblically a covenant could only be ratified through the shedding of blood - including marriage. And, though one could get a certificate of divorce - it did not nullify the covenant. Divorce still meant that the couple was still under the responsibilities of marriage without the benefits of marriage. Needless to say, there was really no benefit to divorce and therefore very few actually happened.

So, what does this mean for us today? Lest you think I lack compassion, I know that there is grace and forgiveness for every situation and this is from the covenant that Christ has made with us - through the shedding of blood. I have no problem with government unions and each person should have the freedom to choose the religion of their choice. If you want a contract that can be nullified, then get a civil union certificate. If you want a covenant that cannot be nullified, then get married.

Tired?

2008-12-11T08:25:00.003-07:00

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).

How Can I Say Thanks?

2008-08-20T11:51:00.004-06:00

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!"

The Inner Burbs

2008-06-14T05:04:00.004-06:00

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!

Two Aussie Churches

2008-06-08T23:23:00.001-06:00

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?

An Aussie Perspective

2008-06-07T17:51:00.003-06:00

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.

Stand Up, Sit Down, Fight, Fight, Fight!

2008-05-30T16:30:00.003-06:00

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?

Two Churches in the Burbs

2008-05-14T21:02:00.003-06:00

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?

Sabbath Rest

2008-04-15T12:31:00.001-06:00

"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.

Suffering Redemption

2008-02-06T14:33:00.000-07:00

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.

Happy Holidays & Xmas

2007-12-08T09:30:00.000-07:00

So, have I gone all PC? Not at all!

If you know me at all you know that being politically correct for the sake of political correctness is not something I value at all. In fact, I will sometimes be politically incorrect just for the shock value. And in this case, I am being politically correct for the sake of shock value!

But in reality, if something was invented by the church to focus people on the true essence of the meaning, then is it really political correctness?

This Christmas season many people will greet you with "Happy Holidays" instead of "Merry Christmas." You could respond with a really loud and obnoxious, "a very, MERRY CHRISTMAS, to you too!" Or, you could respond with a simple "Happy Holidays to you as well," with a knowing smile. Let me give you a simple history as to why I feel no need to say something different, and why I can write Merry Xmas on cards with joy.

Happy Holidays literally refers to the Holy Days for which we normally take a break from work. Over time we began to address every vacation as a Holy Day - and really that is what a vacation should be. Soon it was shortened to Holiday but the meaning is still trapped in the word.

Xmas was invented by the church because during Christmas time during the era of the printing press; all the C's were used up in that the letter was hardly ever used the rest of the year. So, the church began to substitute the "X" for Christ - most people associated the Greek "X" with Christ anyway (the Presbyterians still use the X and P). So, Xmas should really be pronounced "Chai-Mass" - the corporate worship service in which we focus on the birth of Christ. In fact every corporate worship service should be called Chai-Mass!

So, Happy HolyDays and Merry ChaiMass!

Time

2007-11-16T22:06:00.000-07:00

Time is relative.

When I was dating my wife, time would move by so fast. Not to say that time no longer moves quickly when I am around her, I just remember it moving more quickly during that period of my life. Why is it that at times, such as during school, time seems to drag, while other times seem to fly by?

Just yesterday, so it seems, my daughters and son were born and I was married. Were they born on the same day that I was married? It seems like it. How is that possible? Is it because God has set eternity on the hearts of mankind? I don't know.

I was asked recently how is it possible that God can have no beginning or an end. I am not sure there is an adequate explanation for that. But I do know that there are moments that time seems to both stand still and yet fly by at the same time. Maybe this is kind of like eternity.

So, if time is so relative, why is my assistant so persistent to get my article for the newsletter?

I would suggest that time is the method by which we measure our lives. The amount of time we spend on anyone, anything, or any event is an indication of how much we value those people, places or things. If someone consumes our time by not meeting a deadline, we get frustrated and feel imposed upon because that time is lost. If the preacher is long winded - meaning he spoke about something we really couldn't care any less about; we feel that our time was wasted.

Why do Americans carry Blackberry's. PDA's, and cell phones? To help them maximize their time? Or, is it because we love to feel in control of our environment, and if we can control our time then we have gained an upper hand on one of the most important aspects of life. It's really quite simple. If I schedule time with my wife, then when she says, "You never spend time with me anymore," then I can show her in my schedule that just yesterday I blocked out time for just her. It was right between that meeting with the contractor and soccer practice. Then tonight, between the staff meeting and the elders' meeting she and I will have an entire 15 minutes of "quality" time.

What happened to truly allowing our relationships to dictate our time? Should time dictate our relationships? I wonder what the Creator, who is eternal, thinks of our measurement of time and how it controls our lives?

The Insidious Root

2007-10-11T12:02:00.000-06:00

Wherever three or more are gathered together in community, there will be gossip.

I have yet to see community operate perfectly without there being some sort of gossip. One travel guru suggests, "When traveling with friends, never travel with more than one." They go on to suggest that the worst combination is three girlfriends. The root cause of this is that whenever we engage in life with other people there will be offense taken on some particular issue. If there are only 2 people on a deserted island, where will one go to complain about an offense? There is only one option and that is the healthiest choice.

What is it about people that when we feel that we have been wronged we feel that it is necessary to tell other people about the wrong? Why do we insist on sharing other people's faults in order to make ourselves look better? Why do we value self over others?

I would suggest a couple of options beyond my mother's advice of, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." When dealing with hurt and offense there are really only two options but the above saying suggests another option that is quite unhealthy. It is never good to bury pain, hurt, and offense. However, if the pain is but a mere flesh wound, might we just forgive the person for their stupidity and move on? Or, must we confront them and let them know that they offended us and inform them of their moronic behavior? Is it my job to inform everyone of their failings?

So option number one is not just to be quiet and say nothing at all, but it is to ask oneself, "Can I easily forgive this person for this mistake?" I cannot blow my horn at every single person who offends me only to say, "I forgive you," at the next light. It would be best to forgive quickly, be slow to anger and abounding in love.

But, what about those hurts as the result of blatant sin against the community? How do we deal with those offenses that are caused by obvious sin? This is where we need to go directly to the person and state our case, and regardless of whether they ask for forgiveness, forgive them their wrong against us. However, if the action persists or the person continues in the same sinful behavior against others, it is best to bring in a mutual friend or authority into the discussion. If the person persists still? Let the mutual authority deal with it.

But, what about the person who comes to me to complain about someone else's offense against them? Ask them if they have addressed the individual who wronged them, or are they asking you to go with them to address the person? If they continue in the sin of gossip and you approve of it, you have become guilty of the same sin even if you do not engage in spreading the offense.

I strongly believe, that if we engage in these two principles, we could vacation together!

So, anyone want to go to the beach with me and a few of my friends?

Further readings: Matthew 17, Philippians 2, and the rest of the Bible!

Practicing Grace

2007-08-11T07:01:00.000-06:00

It has been said that it is easy to be a saint when other people are not around. Other people have a way of getting under our skin and showing the depths of our soul.

So I went to a baseball game last night. We were blessed with the opportunity to sit on the terrace and have a meal. Some of the seats are good and others are not so good, but each terrace is first come, first served. It is a great family atmosphere until it starts to rain - and the beer begins to flow.

It started to rain in about the second inning and by the third it was getting everything wet. Many people got up, picked up all their stuff and left - so I thought. I moved closer where I could actually watch the game without standing up. In the fourth inning, the rain stopped and suddenly these same people wanted their seats back. Now, if I had taken a jacket, purse, or even a $2 program and moved it, I would think that their request was reasonable. Did I tell them that our old seats were available and we had even cleaned up after ourselves? No, I just moved back.

It was now the fifth inning, the rain had stopped some time earlier and there was a whole bunch of room behind me, but in another terrace. So I moved. After one inning, a man from a different table came over and told us that this was his table and chairs and we had to move. But we weren't really even at the table and we had brought chairs up from our terrace and were sitting in the empty space next to the table. Did I tell him all of this? No, I just moved.

Finally, in the seventh inning, I found a table that had been vacant since the third inning. Once again, I sat in a wet chair and dried off another chair. I now realize that I was being used to dry off the chairs of strangers - a service. But, this time I was able to enjoy the rest of the game, a dry seat and the fireworks. After the game, I was the one upset at the person who let two cars go in front of them when we all know that you only have to let one go!

This morning, my wife was cursed at by the cashier at the supermarket because she wanted change for the yard sale. And when she apologized for making her job difficult, all she received was a roll of the eyes.

Is it just us, or does it seem like everybody is angry? Maybe, there is more to their stories. Maybe we need to listen to what is going on deep down inside of them. Either way, all we can be responsible for is our own response. I just had a good laugh at those people who value their temporary property - actually all property is temporary. It didn't seem appropriate to get into a counseling session at the game! But, I can practice grace in how I respond.

The Discipline of Waiting

2007-07-13T20:42:00.000-06:00

Believe it or not, there have been a few people who have asked me when I was going to post my next blog. I just wanted each of you to learn the discipline of waiting! Seriously, I have not been very disciplined lately with writing for a multitude of reasons of which I am sure you could care less.

I am building a garage. In order to build a garage in the United States, there are more things to do that seem utterly meaningless. Why does City Zoning care about the size and shape of a driveway, or what material will be used? And, why does it really matter whether the eve is 20 or 24 inches, and only on one side? And, why does one department count the stairs as habitable space and the other department, the one that should care, not count it? And why don't they tell you everything you need the first time you go in?

The Answer: The Regional Building Department and City Planning are really concerned about my spiritual well-being.

I personally need to understand the discipline of waiting and my latest journey is reminding me how undisciplined I am in this area. I get bored very quickly while waiting for someone else to make a decision. Is this really a spiritual issue? I believe it is.

It goes back to being a person who is more interested in results rather than the process. My architect keeps saying, the further you get into the process the more clear the finished product will become. But, if the result becomes the driving force, then frustration, disappointment, anger, and other emotions will consume you. How many of us get frustrated with God's work in us? Or, how many of us get angry with Him about the trial we are enduring?

So, I am trying to move my old garage. There are 8 different departments that have to sign off on the journey. Oh, yeah, and the Regional Building Department is one of them - seems that they want to know whether or not you have a permit for the new location.

Patience gives you the ability to enjoy the journey. A lack of patience, well, take it from me, it is not a good place to live.

Integrity & Authenticity

2007-03-07T12:12:00.000-07:00

Lately I have heard a great deal of comments about integrity and authenticity. Many people use the words interchangably and insist that they are the same. Some blame power and isolation as the cause of corruption.

Power in and of itself does not corupt, but it reveals the corruption of one's character. Absolute power reveals the depth of one's corruption.

Fear reveals the level of consistency in one's life. If one acts without fear is one who knows that the person they are in private is the same person they are in public. But, just because someone is authentic, does not make them fearless unless they are consistent.

If one consistently admits to a certain set of values and then acts inconsistently with those values in private and publicly - they lack integrity. They also act in fear that their actions will one day demand an account.

Character and action moving in consistency with one another in public and in private without fear equals integrity.

If you were handed a great deal of power, how would it affect the way you acted out? In other words, if you knew there was nobody who could touch you for your actions, how would you live?

A man of integrity with absolute power, I believe, would rap a towel arround his waist and serve those who are willing to be served.

Is It Relative?

2007-02-15T12:11:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of relatives. You know, those people who have weird mannerisms that we ourselves start emulating the older we get!

Some of my relatives are nice, some are grumpy, some became relatives by my choice and others because of no fault of my own! Marriage has a way of uniting whole clans together. When I chose Terasue to be my wife, I also chose her family. Funny thing though, I only asked her parents - I didn't ask her siblings. After I proposed, I asked for my parents' blessing - probably should have asked their permission. Good thing they like Terasue!

Marriage is a symbol of our relationship with God! The Roman Catholics so value marriage they consider it an actual Sacrament. I don't think of marriage as an ordinance of the Church, but I do see marriage as a holy, ordained of God, institution that is more than a union between a man and a woman. It is a statement of the Church's union with Christ Himself.

He asked for the Father's permission and for the Holy Spirit to seal the union. He also asked for our hand in marriage. He is asking us to join His family - The perfect Communion. And, He has gone to prepare a place for us in His Father's House.

Maybe I should really take this to heart in my daily life. Maybe I should love my wife the way Christ loved the Church and gave Himself up for Her. Maybe I should value my union with Christ the same way I value my union with my wife. Maybe I should think about the things with which I unite Christ.

Jesus chose to invite us to become a part of His Family. He demonstrated that He was willing to be a part of ours as well by becoming Flesh among us. But, that doesn't mean that He likes being related to our unions. The Apostle Paul says, "Don't unite yourself to a prostitute for that is to unite Christ to a prostitute!" But, it is not just prostitutes, we need to be careful what things we make "relatives" of Christ.

Maybe we just make Christ relative rather than considering the way we make Him a relative of our sin.

Why Are We So Angry?

2007-02-06T08:40:00.000-07:00

That person on the road who just cut me off! Then there was that pot-hole that just threw my car out of alignment. Then there was a line at the coffee shop and I had to wait for my coffee. Then my favorite corner was occupied by this group of moms and their kids who were throwing their toys. Then there was this guy who was controlling the conversation with his school partner by speaking louder than a deaf guy on a cell phone with a bad connection.

So, why are we so angry all the time?

Maybe it is because we depend upon the people around us to make us happy. What if external circumstances didn't control us? What if we were centered on Christ and our identity in Him?

I tend to get angry at the situations that I cannot control. Whether it is my children, my wife, my church, or even my friends. When I come to the realization that I cannot control them I become angry. I guess that is a sign of emotional immaturity. So, I yell at them! It makes me feel better but does nothing for the situation.

So, why do you get angry? It is probably not "righteous indignation!"

Oh yeah, the coffee shop newspaper was under all the mom's purses and their coffee cups!

Directions? Why? I'm Not Lost!

2007-01-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

I have never been lost. Why? Because, I am a man. Men are never lost – misguided maybe, but never lost. To admit that I am lost is to somehow admit that I am less of a man. I will admit that it is taking longer to find my destination, but I am not lost!

I recently went to Ohio to visit family. There are no mountains in Ohio; there are lots of hills and trees. The only landmarks are giant water towers that are visible for miles. I suddenly became aware of the compass in our car. That is a handy piece of equipment in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, and Kansas.

A compass is not what keeps us from getting lost, but it sure helps. Some of us have landmarks in our lives that make the compass less of a necessity. These landmarks may be parents, friends, experiences, or traditions. None of these last forever; nor are they always relevant. Someday you won't be able to see Pikes Peak. At that point, you will need a compass.

You can build a compass that will always point you to True North. This compass is built with friends who will speak truth into our lives – authentic, transformational community. How accurate is your compass? Does it point someplace other than True North? Do you have people that can help you use the compass properly?

Making the Bed

2007-01-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

Why make the bed? I will get into it within 24 hours and have to repeat the process again?

Before I was married, I rarely, if ever, made my bed. I honestly did not see the point. It is my bed, nobody else uses it, and my bedroom is where I go to sleep. Yes, we spend more time in this room than any other room in our houses, but we are asleep - in our bed, messing it up. Besides, there is really no point of anyone else even coming into your bedroom anyway. The topic of why other people would be in one's bedroom is not the topic of this particular blog.

So, why make the bed?

I have come to the conclusion that it is for no other reason than discipline. To discipline is to teach, shape or form. When a parent disciplines their children, their goal is to shape, mold, form, and teach the child - never to control them. Some parents make their kids make the bed just so that they can feel in control of their children. But, others have a plan that is more about forming, teaching and molding their children.

I have concluded that I must make the bed, not for my benefit, but for my wife's benefit. She does not like to get into an un-made bed. So, when I am the last one out of bed, I make the bed. For years, I would make it the way she made it. I would tuck the sheets and fold them back over the blanket, fluffing and placing the pillows perfectly. I wonder, was she shaping me, molding me, disciplining me for the past fifteen years? Probably. But now, I make the bed quickly (no folding, tucking, fluffing, or placing) and she doesn't complain, so everything must be okay! So who has been disciplined!

But I digress. There are many things in life that seem meaningless, but if we do them for the benefit of others they serve to discipline us, mold us and shape us into the people that God intended us to be. Even better, if we do them as though it is for God, it brings meaning to our mundane lives.

So, take joy in making your bed.

Navel Watching

2006-12-13T11:40:00.000-07:00

Have you ever been navel watching? No, I am not referring to oranges.

Each of us has embarked on the endeavor of inspecting our own navels. For some it is quite easy, but for some of us, well it is a little more difficult. Each night after I wear a cotton shirt I have to inspect my navel to make sure the lint build-up is at a tolerable level. My level is much higher than that of my wife, so she generally avoids looking at my navel. However, if she happens to notice the lint that seems to be growing out of my navel, well I am quickly rebuked!

Before you are totally grossed out by this discussion, let me get to the point. All of us tend to get focused upon our own navels and enjoy our navel watching excursions. It is fun, at times, to become introspective and think about ourselves. God can even use these times to guide and direct us into a more fruitful life.

However, we quickly slip into navel watching and run into a wall. We must certainly clean the lint out of our navels, but never at the expense of those around us. I cannot think of one person who would enjoy watching me clean out my navel!

The Apostle Paul said something to this effect, “Don’t get so focused upon yourself and what benefits you that you forget about the people around you. In fact, you should consider the people around you as more important than yourself.”

Jesus also said something similar to this, “Get your eyes off of yourselves so that you might see all the people around you and their need for Me.”

Narcissism is a disease that will destroy community. But even beyond, it separates us from our Creator. And if you are so narcissistic to see the need for others or a Creator, let me suggest this – it’s even bad for you. Narcissus wouldn’t leave the pool because he was so in love with his own reflection. May I never become so enthralled with my own navel.

Mediocrity and Meritocracy

2006-12-05T10:41:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite bumper stickers out there is about Citizens of the Month. No, it is not the one about my kid being the Citizen of the Month - its the other one, "My kid beat up your Citizen of the Month."

Not that I encourage beating up Citizens of the Month, but in my experience those were ridiculous awards that were passed around the class - not based on merit but from the mindset that every kid should be recognized as a Citizen of the Month, or at the very least Citizen of the Week.

Not dissimilar is keeping score at a little kids soccer game and then giving trophies to everyone at the end - why did we keep score again? There was a league in which my kids were involved; they didn't keep score - but the kids did!

Without a meritocracy nobody knows whether they are good or not. It is kind of like each person deciding what is good and meritorious for themselves. This sounds "good" but then each person should also be able to determine what is not evil. So, that means Hitler was a saint and a God who just wants people to be "True to themselves" must welcome Charles Manson into His heaven.

But, God did set up a meritorious system by which a person might know how they measure up to His standards. All of creation follows this system and some call it Karma, others call it "Reaping what you Sow." The point is, God has a standard of good that He established to separate it from evil. It is found mostly in the Older Testament of the Bible.

So, those who are good enough should enter heaven right? Wrong. That would not be fair. If it was strictly meritorious as most religions are, only those of privelege have the best opportunity to earn the right to enter heaven. You know these priviledged people: those people whose parents were good, who were given the opportunity to study good, and were intelligent enough to figure out good. But, God set up a meritorious system!

Yes, He did, but only to demonstrate that we do not measure up to His standard. Instead of being a meritorious system it became one that is the most fair - a free gift to all who receive Jesus as Lord.

Funny how we love meritocracies so much that we try and make Christianity one.

Caring for Bambi

2006-11-21T10:00:00.000-07:00

I sat in the coffee shop this morning and listened to a discussion about what kind of chicken farm is best for the environment. The discussion ranged from what kind of chicken is healthiest to what was the best chicken for eatin'. Personally I like it grilled.

Needless to say, my comments were not registered since the most I know about raising chickens is that I once dated a girl whose dad owned a chicken farm in Georgia. Oh yea, in Ecuador I ate a "range" chicken - once. It was the toughest white meat I have ever eaten, but it was boiled not grilled. I much prefer "range" guinea pig to "range" chicken.

But I digress. Bambi and the rest of the environment need protection, not only from us, but I suggest that it needs protection even from itself. Managing the environment is like juggling. We need certain resources from the environment in order to live, but we cannot consume the environment. You leave an environmental footprint upon this planet whether you want to or not. Some of those who seek to protect the environment seem to destroy it in the process. We all leave footprints wherever we go.

So, what does this have to do with the church?

If we were called to have "dominion" over the earth, this inherently demands that we act as stewards of our environment. It is not unlike money. Some of us are investors and others are consumers. If we would recognize that the land is not ours any more than our money is ours, it should change the way we use the land. We are but managers, not owners. God is the owner we just serve Him. We are not called to be hoarders or consumers - our job is to be managers and investors for the future.

So, whether you drive a Hybrid, an SUV, eat range chickens or buffalo is irrelevant. The issue is much deeper - are you an investor in or a consumer of the environment?

I Don't Want to Be an Idiot

2006-11-15T11:40:00.000-07:00

What kind of old person do you want to be when you grow up?

When I was a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child - I was a child! But, now that I am a man, I have put childish things behind me - at least I am trying. No longer do I wonder what I am going to do when I grow up, now I wonder who I will be when I grow up - will I wander? I spend a lot more time thinking and pondering my character than I do my productiveness. Productivity is important, so people tell me, but I have seen too many productive people be idiots when it comes to who they are on the inside.

I don't want to be an idiot when I grow up.

I want to be a man of character to whom people look for wisdom and insight - not professionally but personally. I used to want success and professional respect. I now want my depth of character to be known by those who know me best. As far as my professional career, big whoopdedoo! My kids won't really care how big my church was - they don't even care now. My wife could care less about how good of a preacher I was or am or will be. My friends want to know that I am the same on the inside as I am on the outside.

So, I resolve to be like Christ - that way I won't be an idiot when I grow up.

The only way I know to make sure this happens is to spend most of my time working on the stuff nobody sees. You know - those deepest, darkest places of a man's soul. Better yet, I will let those around me see those places and let God use them to work on me. I won't try and make myself more holy or pure, I will give myself over to God and let Him do it - that way I can't boast when I am old. All I will be able to say is - I just tried not to be an idiot and let God do His thing.

My Mission (and I choose to accept it): Go be a good slave - and don't be an idiot!

Living in a Glass House

2006-11-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

When did living in a glass house become a bad thing? Shouldn't we do everything possible to make our lives an open book? Shouldn't the guy down the street know us? Why do we put up privacy fences, live in gated communities, and use the remote for the garage as the key to our house? When was the last time YOU used your front door?

Are we afraid of other people?

I would argue that we are afraid of what other people will find out about us if we were to let them see into our lives. This is the intriguing part of all the reality TV shows. We can look into other people's lives without reciprocity. We can throw stones at their glass house and keep our house free from intrusion!

Who knows you? Who knows that you yell at your kids when you are stressed and tired? Who knows that your marriage is not all that? Who knows that your time with God is a passing glance as you rush out the door? Who knows what is your greatest temptation? Who knows your dreams and despairs?

If you cannot name anyone but your immediate family, you are not living in community. You are removing the windows of your house - sure it is more efficient, but . . . Living in community is to live in a glass house. It is where we learn about ourselves and what we could become. Community is where we share our lives and learn to bless others.

Have you ever noticed that model homes have every light in the house turned on and the drapes and curtains are wide open? That is because nobody lives there. There is a place for modesty and appropriateness - but our lives should be welcoming, inviting, authentic and sincere.

Highways or Interstates?

2006-10-24T10:06:00.000-06:00

When you go on a journey accross the country, do you take the interstate or the highway?

Interstates have limited access, there are minimum speed limits, there are rest areas every so many miles, many national chains are ready to serve you with food and gas, and the roadway is generally well maintained. The Results: the disruptions have been minimized, the comfort of travel is elevated, and it is fairly easy to determine your time of arrival (if this is difficult just visit Mapquest - they'll tell you).

Highways, on the other hand, go through small towns, the options for food and gas are limited to mom and pop diners with a gas pump out back, the restrooms are only located in businesses with signs asking that be used only by patrons, farm vehicles going 15 mph have equal rights to the roadway, and the roads are at the bottom of the state's list for improvement: unless they are on the way to a major tourist trap.

Interstates are a symbol of who we have become in America: Comfort and Convenience. We like to plan our days, our lives, our trips, and even our diversions. No longer do we stop into the mom and pop diner. No longer do we take the detour to see the giant ball of string. We want to get off the freeway only to use the restroom and get right back on. We are about the destination instead of the journey.

Success is determined by the goal, and the end now justifies the means. Distractions are no longer embraced. Comfort has become a virtue. Relationships that slow us down are now obstacles that need to be overcomed.

Maybe as a spiritual discipline we should start driving the highways again; just to reprioritize our lives. Maybe we would rediscover the wonder of our children as we embrace the distractions they usher into our lives. Maybe we would begin to understand the bigger issues of life and spirituality in the light of the journey and thus enjoy the journey.

Judge Not?

2006-10-18T12:55:00.000-06:00

Can you imagine what would happen if Christians stopped judging?

You might immediately assume that things would get better. But, would they?

I for one appreciate the person who looks at me and says, "What were you thinking? Or, were you?" I appreciate the coach who refuses to patronize me and is willing to tell me that what I did was flat out stupid. This is one reason I love my wife. She is willing to tell me the truth about myself and tell me when I am being an idiot.

That said, if Christians stopped being judgemental, that would be a much better place to hang my hat - if I ever actually wore a hat.

Jesus never said, "Do not judge." (please note the period) However, Jesus did say, "Do not judge or by the same measure you will be judged."

We have to be willing to judge between what is right and what is wrong - especially when it relates to raising children. However, let us quickly admit that we must be willing to be held to the same standard. Will you let your child tell you that you sinned?

The problem is that too many "Christians" refuse to be held to the same standard by which they are judging the world. (The standard is the Bible.)

If we are going to call someone an idiot, we had better make sure that they know that we love them first! Let us follow the example of Christ, who being in very nature God did not consider equality with God something to be grasped but made Himself nothing - taking on the very nature of a servant.

Now, what if "Christians" began to serve the "sinners" of this world? Would they have the platform to then say, "That is wrong?" I think we would, but we might end up hanging on a cross next to Jesus.

Defining Prayer

2006-10-17T12:56:00.000-06:00

Below are just a few quotes about prayer. A few people asked if I could get a copy to them, so here they are. My favorite is C.S. Lewis' definition.

“Prayer is the whole personality of body, mind and spirit exposing itself to the total influence of God in a continuous offering and a continuous experience of cooperation.” – Thomas Carruth

“Prayer is nothing more than an ongoing and growing love relationship with God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.” – Richard Foster

“To pray is to enter into relationship with God.” – Kenneth Leech

“Prayer is either a sheer illusion or a personal contact between embryonic, incomplete persons and the utterly concrete Person. Prayer in the sense of petition, asking for things, is a small part of it; confession and penitence are its threshold, adoration its sanctuary, the presence and vision and enjoyment of God its bread and wine.” – C.S. Lewis

So which is your favorite?

What If?

2006-10-16T20:14:00.000-06:00

I don’t think we spend enough time thinking about the “what if.”

What if we pursued God with abandon? What if I loved my wife the way Christ loves the Church? What if I did a load of laundry? What if I worked as though I were actually doing my job for the Lord instead of my boss?

The negative is true as well.

What if I were to disobey the command to honor my father and mother? What if I were to not treat my neighbor as myself? What if I were to cheat just a little at work?

I wonder, do we think anymore, or do we just go through the motions?

What if we were to recapture that sense of wonder that a child has about life? What if were to ponder the consequences to our actions? Children know that they have their whole life ahead of them and know the power of the “what if.” Much to our dismay sometimes, our children want to know “What if . . .” But, we cannot stifle the power of the “what if” in our children or we kill their dreams and worse yet, their sense of wonder about God’s creation. Beyond that, we reduce them to live in the doldrums of life without thinking. Without asking the “What if” a child is doomed to repeat the mistakes of the past and becomes a pawn of their peers.

There is great power in the “What if.” What if we were to live in the “What if?”

Some people think about the “What if” but it makes no difference in their life. They know the potential to making the right decision but they are debilitated by their lack of courage and their fear. The power of the “What if” is only useful for those who actually act upon the “What if.”

What if we were a church that was composed of individuals and families who were submissive to Christ and His desires instead of our own?

Who Cares?

2006-10-12T10:33:00.000-06:00

Who Cares About Them?

I recently spent some time speaking with a neighbor of our church who works as the head chef at a refuge for homeless teens. Most of the teens are runaways, some have been kicked out of their homes, and still others have just slipped through the cracks of the system. Why have the teens been kicked out of their homes? The primary reason was because they declared homosexuality as their sexual preference.

Homosexuality - that sin that seems to have climbed to the top of so many self-proclaimed Christians' lists. Sure it is contrary to scripture, but so is gluttony (eating too much). Sure it is not natural according to the rules of natural selection, but so is celibacy. So why have we put it at the top of our list as one of the worst sins?

What if we treated gossips the same way we treated homosexuals? Why are we quick to cast stones at those whose sins are different than our own? Would we give them a stone to cast at us?

What if we loved them? We do not have to agree with their agenda, nor do we have to condone their sin. In fact we should clearly state what we believe in midst of the confusion regarding their agenda and even vote accordingly. But, we have to love them.

So what should be our compelling message? I think it should be clearly communicated that we all: homosexuals, gossips, rebels, etc. stand before God as condemned people. But, because Christianity is the only fair faith, we can all be forgiven by the free gift of Jesus - the only sufficient sacrifice for our sin. Remember that we are not declared righteous because of what we have or have not done. We are only declared righteous because we have received a free gift from God.

A Desperate Community

2006-10-11T14:24:00.000-06:00

Desperate People Living The Journey Together

We love to be labeled self-sufficient, self-motivated, and independent. Why? What would happen if we lived as desperate people who need each other in order to live life? Would we be labeled differently?

Needy, Dependent, Desperate.

If we were dependent upon one another, would we become healthier emotionally, spiritually, and physically? I think so. Would you let me live in my self-pity and self-absorbtion? Or, would you call me out as such? Would you let me continue in a self-destructive pattern that not only destroys self but also those to whom I am the closest? Would you let me continue down a path that leads to destruction or would you show me a better way?

To Live the Journey Together is impart kindness to one another. To call one another out. To punch someone in the nose to help them recognize their folly. To call a spade a spade and a sin sin.

But, we live in a country that values independence, liberty, freedom, individuality, personal space and self. So, I will go on trying to surround myself with a community that values higher ideals such as Desperation, Dependence, and Need.