Friday Five: Fork in the Road

Singing Owl is at a life-changing juncture. I do not know which way I will go, but I have been thinking about the times, people and events that changed my life (for good or ill) in significant ways. For today's Friday Five, share with us five "fork-in-the-road" events, or persons, or choices. And how did life change after these forks in the road?

What a question Singing Owl you have asked and a great picture to go with it.

My Forks in the Road

Being a Methodist Pastor means I move when appointed by the Bishop and the Cabinet to serve at a different church. Each church I have served has been different. I just moved in June and am in transition in a large church from serving small churches for the last seven years. It is challenging, exciting, demanding and fun. It has providing lots of opportunities for new ministries, working with people of all ages, creativity, synergy, learning, and a deepening in my spiritual life. The last appointment was a difficult one and so this is refreshing. But even the last appointment grew me as a minister as I allowed God to work in me. I enjoyed the small churches for who they were, the intimacy, the quite times and slower pace.

ThThey too were willing to do new things as God called them into new vision for being the body of Christ. I had moved to these small churches from what in the Methodist Church is considered a large church but compared to this church is medium size. I loved serving there because it was growing, lots of families, young people, the energy, their missional nature, the contemporary church, and the opportunities.

2. Adoption We have adopted three kids. Each child we have adopted has led to fork in the road, whether to adopt this child or not. We had tried for years to get pregnant, quit, and became content with being childless. With the move to Huntsville, we found out about adoptions from China and that the age limits did not effect us. We could have stopped with our first who was a baby at that time, but we adopted the next two. However we chose to adopt older children who had “special needs”, because we felt led to and wanted to. Having adopted older kids who had cleft lip and cleft palettes, meant taking paths of spending time in hospitals, Doctor’s offices, speech therapies, and with teachers. Being adopted when they were older meant they came with emotional and behavioral needs which meant lots of work on our part, lots of love, patience, therapies, medication, time with teachers and counselors, reading books, learning how to deal with their needs.

3. There have been other forks, but the above seem to make more than five. I’ll just say getting married was a big fork. Going to college and then Seminary were forks in the road for me. Doing Clinical Pastoral Education and training for Pastoral Counseling/Marriage and Family Therapy were forks in the roads of my life. All along the way there have been people who were there for such a time to be part of my life, to be a sign post, help me on my journey, way in the balances which way to go, encourage me, or walk with me.

So what about you, what forks in the road have you taken?

Friday Five: Taking a Break

For the Friday Five: Songbird tells us that “Where we live, it's February School Vacation Week!Yes, that's an odd thing, a vacation extending President's Day. But it's part of our lives here. Some people go South or go skiing, but we always stay home and find more humble amusements.”
In that spirit, I offer this Taking a Break Friday Five. Tell us how you would spend:
1. a 15 minute break Tea or coffee anyone?
2. an afternoon off Nap or a hike or play Wii depending on the weather.
3. an unexpected free day I am out of here or veg out.
4. a week's vacation Funny you would ask we finalized the place we are staying for Spring break which is in two weeks. And it looks a lot warmer than the skiing winter break picture on rgbp’s. (Hint, Hint can you say sunny Florida.)
5. a sabbatical Get out of here, are you kidding me? You aren’t. Well let me go to Oxford then. I did have a Seminary Professor who took his sabbatical making pizzas at Pizza Hut.
That does sound intriguing, with a whole lot less mental stress.

Bonus question? What break would I really like to have? A whole weekend, although a three day weekend or one of those four day weekends would be nice to have.

It's possible the coffee is a hint at my interests...) I know what you mean Songbird. Today, I got to have coffee at Starbucks with some friends. It was really nice.

Wii Fit/WIISpiritual Fit

I gave in or caved in and bought the WII Fit even after Hassleback complained about how it ruins kids self esteem. I not sure where she got that. But I like it. I didn't like what it had to say about me. It is honest, didn't mince words about my shape and fitness. Yes, I am obese. It keeps telling me I am unbalanced, I could have told it that. I have always run into doors. It makes me work, and yet have fun. The worst thing it told me was I was 6 years older than I am by WII Fit standards. But it is the truth. In the last years, I have not excercised regularly at all. And well it shows. But I like doing it and I will keep doing it. I like having my trainer, she keeps encouraging me and challenging me.

It made me think about my own spiritual life. How fit am I with that? Will WII come up with a WII Spiritual Fit that tells me I am out of shape, have sinned, didn't read my bible or pray? Will it have my own Spiritual Trainer who encourages me to read the bible, pray, meditate, be still and know that I am God, tithe, be missional, love others, or witness? Will it say I live a balanced Spiritual life between being and doing? That may not be such a bad idea.

(That's not my cat on the WII Fit balance board, but my cat could use it.

Actually this one is from Flickr)

So how Fit are you? How fit is your spiritual life? Do you Wii Fit?

President's day

Its President's day here and the kids are at home.
Oh goody its a play day.
Our son's family will be headed back to their home today.
Wah, we have had a great time with them.
The kids have really gotten along with each other and played well.
Having the boys here has been good for Zach especialy.
He has really enjoyed having boys to be active with and not just the girls.
Wish we were closer.
I have today off, so I'll be enjoying the kids too.

Since today is President's day, I wanted to include the Daily thought I send out to friends, family and church members. Today it has quote from President Abe Lincoln, a scripture, prayer and blessing to go along with it.
Hope you have a happy President's day today as well.
Today might be a good day to pray for our President and our former Presidents as well.
But let's also prayer for the leaders of other countries too, especially those we consider "our enemies."

Thought for the day
After he had been elected president, someone asked Abraham Lincoln what he was going to do about his enemies. He replied, "I am going to destroy them. I am going to make them my friends."

Scripture for the day
Romans 12:20 "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head."

Prayer for the day
Lord, remember not only the men of good will, but also those of ill will. But do not remember all the suffering they have inflicted upon us. Remember rather the fruits we have brought, thanks to this suffering: our comradeship, our loyalty, our humility, the courage, the generosity, the greatness of heart that has grown out of this. And when they come to judgment, let all the fruits we have bourne be their forgiveness.
Source: Found on a scrap of paper at the liberation of Ravensbruck Concentration Camp in Germany

Blessing for the day
Blest be that spot, where cheerful guests retire
To pause from toil, and trim their evening fire;
Blest that abode, where want and pain repair,
And every stranger finds a ready chair;
Blest be those feasts with simple plenty crowned
Where all the ruddy family around
Laugh at the jests or pranks that never fail,
Or sigh with pity at some mournful tale;
Or press the bashful stranger to his food,
And learn the luxury of doing good.
Oliver Goldsmith, The Traveler

Valentine's day '09

We are furiously cleaning the house in anticipation of visitors today.

Our son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren, boys are coming today.

They were suppose to come in December but were delayed. So we are very excited.

We get to have Christmas, Happy New Year and Valentine's Day all in one visit.

Fortunately I am not preaching Sunday, however I am teaching a class.

I am so fortunate to have 4 human valetine's and 4 furbaby valentine's that I live with.

I am also blessed with lots of other people in my life that I love and am loved by.

I got a sweet valentine call from my mom today. And good news, my nephew, Michael is home from serving in Iraq as a Marine. Yea. What a great Valentine gift.

For this day, here is a Valentine gift to you of a thought, scripture, prayer and blessing. Hope it is a day full of love for you.

Love is much more than a sentimental feeling.

It is putting someone else's welfare ahead of your own.

Scripture for the day
1 John 3:16 (Contemporary English Version) 16We know what love is because Jesus gave his life for us. That's why we must give our lives for each other.

Prayer for the day
Lord, Let my heart be the vessel of God's Love.

Let my thoughts be the blossom of God's Love.

Let my words be the expression of God's Love.

Let my actions be the fulfillment of God's Love. Amen David Ridge

Blessing for the day
May you be blessed with

warmth in your home,

love in your heart,

peace in your soul

and joy in your life.

Happy Valentine's day

Friday Five: Memorable pets

My son's tiny beloved lizard, Elf, is looking and acting strange this week. His skin/scales are quite dark, and he is lethargic. We are adding vitamin drops to his lettuce and spinach and hoping and praying that he is just getting ready to shed his skin--but it's too soon to tell. Others in the ring have also been worried about beloved pets this week. And, in the saddest news of all, Songbird has had to bid farewell to her precious Molly, the amazing dog who is well known to readers of her blog as a constant sacrament of God's unconditional love. So in memory of Molly, and in honor of all the beloved animal companions who bless our lives: tell us about the five most memorable pets you have known.

Here are my top five pets of my life.
1. First is Shasta; a sweet cat who has been gone for sometime now. Shasta was my first cat that owned me in Birmingham. She and her siblings was found in the woods and was living in a foster home. She was the sweetest of the group, so I chose her. But I had to be approved before I could adopt her. Luckily, I was approved and we have had a wonderful 18 years together. Not only was she sweet, but she was playful and enjoyed the outdoors. She was able to go with the flow of my life and many moves. When I moved to Columbus and met Bob. She was the one who fell for Bob first and approved him for my husband. She and Bob had a great relationship during her time on earth. We almost lost her by accident once though. Bob had been up in the attic doing some work, and came back down the ladder. Unfortunately he forgot to check if any of the cats had gone up the ladder too. After awhile we heard this pitiful meowing and started looking everywhere for where it was coming from. Finally we pulled down the ladder and there she was. It was a hot summer day, and the heat in the attic had gotten to her. Bob quickly got her and started pouring cold water over her while she stood in the tub. Fortunately, she survived. Even as old as she got, she accepted the other pets we would bring home to live. She also accepted Kate when we brought her home as a baby from China. Kate loved Shasta and really misses her. Her last act of love to me and the family was her death. We knew her death was coming, she had gotten frailer, skinnier, and less able to eat and take care of herself. I was gone to be with my mom during and after her surgery. While I was gone she decided to die, and so she went outside on our back porch and died. As I write this, I am crying because I miss her sweetness and her presence.

2. The next pet is the one living with us now. Her name is Tygger an 11 yr old cat. She and her two siblings were found out in the woods at Fort Benning. They were dumped as three day old kittens. They all three were adopted by me and two of my friends at that time. The vet did not think they would survive, but they have and from those scrawny kittens have grown into huge cats. Although when we were bottle feeding our kittens, Tygger almost died. Unfortunately, I had accidently bought a bad can of kitten milk. But fortunately the Emergency Vet saved her. We had a big black female lab at the time who adopted her as her baby, by licking her, nestling her and watching over her. I think her mothering was the big reason Tygger survived and thrived. Since she was bottle feeding, I took her to work with me, almost everywhere. People fell in love with her and worried about her. Well, now we have a mixed up cat who thinks she is part cat, part human and part dog. She has not been so good about welcoming other kittens or friends that come to visit. But she has welcomed the kids and most of all taught them to love and be gentle with others and themselves. I guess she has taught me that too. Our black lab has since died, but she has taken up with the other two dogs who like to lick her and play with her. She is learning to accept our newest young cat in the family as well. She also saw me through my dad’s dying and death. She was with me. When my mom comes to visit, she loves to be with her. She is a sweet lap cat and loves to kiss. And she loves Bob as well. Can you tell that Bob is a cat person? But Tygger does not travel well, and does not like vets and lets it be known.

3. Blackie was the big black lab I mentioned in Tygger’s story. We adopted her from a family whose dog had puppies. She was actually the runt but as cute as she could be. We had a foster child at the time, and it had been suggested to get him a dog of his own since we already had a dog. Blackie was actually part lab and some kind of retriever. She loved to swim in the water. She was typical lab in that she dug holes in the back yard, chased wild life, ate through our house, and any stuff animals. It two years for the brain fairy to come visit her to get her to calm down. She turned into a big hunk of a dog, but more like a gentle teddy bear. But I can tell you I always felt safe with her around when I would go hiking or walking. Blackie was there when we brought home Kate and Kara. We weren’t sure how she and Kate would do, but Kate was giggling and laughing over her, and Blackie was treating her like she was her baby. I wish I still had Blackie for who she was, she always made my day better. She lived 14 good years.

4. Ivanhoe was a male English setter who stole my heart in a pet store. He was the last puppy left and looked so lonely. I got him and immediately went to the vet, because I could tell he was sick. Well it turned out he had parvo, but we were able to nurse him back to health. And what a healthy dog he became. He too loved water, long hikes in the woods, and sleeping on our bed. He ruled the roost. Whenever Bob and I would kiss or hug he would get between us. He also loved chocolate. One time I had baked a pan of brownies for a bake sale, and left them on the cooling rack. That silly dog was able to reach up there and get those brownies. He ate every one before I discovered what he had done. He also loved to run, and if given a chance to get out the fenced in yard would take off. She did it several times, but we were always able to find him. One time he had run so far and so hard he had run the pads off his paws, was covered in ticks, briars and stickers. He was laid up for sometime, but we finally got all the stuff off of him and his pads healed. He never ran again after that. But when we came back from my dad’s funeral he was gone and the back yard gate was open. Blackie stayed home. We think because he was a hunting dog, that some hunter took him. We lived in the country and there were leased lands near us to hunters. We always said that if some hunter got him, he would be a hard dog to train to hunt, he would be gone in a minute, and “say bird, what bird.” I don’t know that I ever got good closure on losing Ivanhoe. And he has a special place in my heart.

5. The final pet was Bat Man. Bat Man was a cat that came to live with us because his owners, our friends, couldn’t have him where they were moving to. I was a teenager, and somehow or another that cat took up with me and slept in my bed. He went anywhere I went including to the swamp and to the woods. He was a great hunter, and would bring back his catches to our front step. We would go out in the morning and there would be blood and some kind of dead animal out there. We called it, his bringing his offerings to the altar. He was such a good tempered cat and very friendly. He got his name because he had a black mask and cape. We always had to sing the Bat Man theme song when we called him. When I left for college, he got quite depressed except when I came home for visits, then he would be happy again. He wasn’t fixed so he got into lots of cat fights and you could hear him and the other cat fighting and yelling at each other. He died when I was gone to Seminary of old age. He was a wonderful cat to have in my teen age years. He heard all my secrets, listened to me and loved me when I was going through those hard teen age years.

I have had lots of pets over the years and they all have a story to tell. Right now we have Lilly Bear, Kodah, who are dogs and then two cats, Tygger and Miley. And they are making stories of their lives with us now.

A time for courage, a prayer for courage

As the recession deepens in our country, it is a time for courage.

As people lose their jobs, their homes, their savings, and their retirement funds, it is a time for courage.

As churches face drops in giving and tithes, it is a time for courage.

As we have to say no to our kids, and no to ourselves, it is a time for courage.

As we cut back, sacrifice, and pay off bills, it is a time for courage.

Our country has gone through recession, inflation and depression before, they were times for courage.

Our parents, grandparents, great grandparents, Aunts and Uncles lived through those difficult times, and it was a time for courage.



But where does our courage come from, when we perhaps are new at facing such difficult times?

Where do we find this courage to cut back, say no, sacrifice, or face losing our jobs?



We can turn to those still living who went rough such times and ask for their wisdom, knowledge and experience.

We can look within and dig it up from that place deep within.



We can read stories of courage.

We can read the Bible which is full of stories of courage.

We can pray.



Yes, I know courage doesn't pay the bills, or feed the kids, but it something that keeps us going, doesn't give into despair, hopelessness and helplessness. And for that I believe this kind of courage comes from God.



So here is a scripture verse and prayer for courage:


Isaiah 41:10 Fear thou not; for I [am] with thee: be not dismayed; for I [am] thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.



We take a moment for silent, private prayer. . . .

GOD IN YOUR MERCY, HEAR OUR PRAYERS.


For all those who face a new week with fear, or dread, or hopelessness.


For those who live with illness or pain, physical or emotional.


For the lonely, and anxious, and worried.



For those who have lost their jobs, their homes, their savings, or their retirement funds. (my addition)


For those who must don a veil of cheerfulness, respectfulness, or energy to get through the day.


God, please give us courage.



at A Different Street by Satchel Pooch

Lights Out

Yesterday, in the middle of the day, the power went out in the church. I worked for as long as I could with the Laptop on battery. Finally, I went home when it became clear the power wasn't going to come back on for some time. We don't know what happened or why the power went out. We have emergency lights but not a backup generator.



I came back last night to teach a class, and the lights were back on, but the building was cold. That told me it had not been on long.



It got me to thinking about my own life, and when the power in my life goes out. Do I have a backup generator for my life? Am I connected with the source of energy for all life, Creator God?
Am I using up all my energy on all kinds of things except for those places I need to be spending my energy? Do I even have emergency lights in my life? How can I do a better job using my energy more efficiently? How can I make sure I am connected to the source of energy?

We WII

We bought a WII for Christmas for the family, and have been playing regularly since then. We took it along to Grandma's for the holidays and now Grandma wants one. I am saving money for that gift.

But we have a great time playing. It has especially been good during these cold days. The favorite game, hands down: bowling,
second; golf,
third; baseball,
fourth; tennis,
Who is the top player and winner? It's a tie between Bob and Kate.

A word of advise, don't play WII with your slippers on while playing on a wood floor. I took a nice fall doing that yesterday. We were playing the bowling game, and some how or another, my feet went out from under me and there I went, bam. Nothing broken, just a good laugh for the kids. Oh and I got a spare.

I ordered the WII Fit and am waiting on it to come.

Anybody else WII?

It's Ground hog day

LOL. I always loved this day, although it never really effected where I lived, considering I grew up in Sunny Florida, and lived most of my adult life in the Sunny South. today, the prediction was for snow, that's a joke, there was no snow, but there was rain. I look out my office window and it is a beautiful sunny day now. It is not coled, but comfortable.

I read that Punxsutawney Phil says it is going to be six more weeks of winter.

There is apparently a Ground hog in Huntsville, AL. Although we probably don't check to see if it saw it's shadows. Although I see that the Bham Zoo did check with their groundhog who also said 6 more weeks of Winter.

I have kept up with how cold and miserable people in the midwest and East and North have been. I noticed that they had the movie "Groundhogs day" on TV last night.

For Christians February 2 is Candlemas Day, a festival that celebrates the presentation of Christ in the Temple, Jesus’ first entry into the temple; and it celebrates the Virgin Mary’s purification (40 days after Jesus' birth.) The Gospel of Luke says that Jesus was met by Anna and Simeon. Simeon held the baby Jesus and called him a Light to the World.

Ritual purification stems back to a Jewish tradition that women were considered unclean after the birth of a child. For 40 days for a boy, and 60 days for a girl, women weren't allowed to worship in the temple. At the end of this time, women were brought to the Temple or Synagogue to be purified. After the ceremony women were allowed to take part in religious services again.

If Candlemas Day be fair and bright,
Winter will have another flight;
But if it be dark with clouds and rain,
Winter is gone, and will not come again.

I find it interesting that on the day of Mary's purification she is then allowed to
go worship at the temple after being purified. On this day, they bring Jesus to present to the Lord. On this day there is also an older woman Anna, a prophet, who as a widow to the age of eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped there with fasting and prayer night and day. At that moment she came, and began to praise God and to speak about the child to all who were looking for the redemption of Jerusalem. I wonder what it was like for both those women that day? I wonder what went through their mind as they both saw each other? I wonder what all Anna did say, we have what Simeon said, but not the words of what Anna said. We have the jest. What did the old woman say to the young mother about being a young woman, a mother, and a wife? What did the young woman say to the older woman or even asked her? What did God have in mind in bringing these two together at this time? What effect did this have on Jesus' life and ministry? And why was this included in the scriptures? What does it say to us today?

Ground hog's day or Candlemas day, I hope it is a good day for you.

A Psalm of Praise to God

In this morning's Upper Room Disiplines the writer focuses on Psalm 111:1-3 in the NIV specifically on verse 2 "Great are the works of the Lord, they are pondered by all who delight in them. He goes on to say that ponder means to contemplate, leisurely and unhurried. It is a part of the delighting in God. As he completes today's devotion, he invites you to sit quietly for a moment and begin to compose your own psalm of praise. He suggest you keep it in mind as you go thorugh the day and add to it.

At first all I could think of were praise songs I know and Psalms I know, so I had to quiet my mind. And as I quieted my mind, this is the Psalm that came to me. I wrote it after I first thought of it because I was afraid I would forget it and I wanted to be able to refer to it.

Here it is;

A Psalm of Praise to God

Lord, let my life be a song of praise to you,
Your handiwork praises you.
The cats and dogs praise their love for you.
The birds sing sweetly of their love for you.
The rivers, the lakes and oceans sing of their praise to you.
The trees lift their limbs in praise to you.
The clouds dance in praise to you.
May, my life be a song of praise to you.

Prayer for Epiphany 3B

Almighty Compassionate God,
You care for all your peoples, whether they are here around us or in far off places, you care enough to call people to bring the good news to them.

You care about our country during these tough economic times, and times of transition to a new president and his cabinet.
You care about countries like Gaza, Zimbabwe, Nigeria, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan who have deeper problems and needs than we do.

You care about those who are sick, in pain, in the hospital, home bound and in nursing homes, your compassion extends to them.
You care about those who carry heavy burdens, broken hearts, grieving, lonely and anxious, your compassion extends to them as well.

You care for the great number of people losing their jobs, losing their homes, losing their bank accounts as well as those who have had none of those for a long time.

You care for those of us who answered your call to preach your word, teach your word, Pastor your flock, and lead in songs of praise, your compassion extends to us as well.

Lord we thank you for your compassion, your care, your mercy and the good news of your son Jesus Christ. Amen

Tuesday, Inaugaration day 2009

Today, we will be having somewhat of an Inauguration Day party in the Attic, the Youth area. The big screen tv will be on all day. There will be snack food, hot drinks and cold drinks and soup for lunch. I am bringing my laptop in so I can work while I watch.

Today as I read the devotion from the Upper Room Disciplines, I realized how appropriate it was to today's events and really throughout life. There has been a lot made of this new President and that he can fix the problems of his country. There are high expectations. There are some unreal expectations. Obama can not fix this nation and even he knows that. But today's devotion used the scripture Psalm 62:5-7. Here are the verses;
5 Find rest, O my soul, in God alone;
my hope comes from him.
6 He alone is my rock and my salvation;
he is my fortress, I will not be shaken.
7 My salvation and my honor depend on God [a] ;
he is my mighty rock, my refuge.
8 Trust in him at all times, O people;
pour out your hearts to him,
for God is our refuge. Selah

This scripture is for all of us that in God alone we find our rest, our hope, our salvation. He is our rock, our fortress, our refuge. We all need to trust in him and pour out our hearts to him. Yes, God can work through Obama, our leaders, and God can work through us to make right was is wrong in this country. May it be so.

Oh and by the way Psalm 62:5-12 is the Lectionary Psalm for Sunday. For the Episcopal, it is Psalm 62:6-14. And this Psalm will preach for a time such as ours. Oh and if you are using the Roman Catholic reading it is something else, Psalm 25:4-9.

So what are you doing today?

Monday, MLK's holiday

Last week both girls were sick with headaches, high fevers and then stuffiness. The were finally well enough to go to church yesterday, although Kate still is stuffed up and coughing. They missed school all week, and then missed their Jade Club get together. Now wouldn't you know it, on a day off I am sick. Oh well. The good thing is it is a day off and I can rest. Ooh but the head.
It was a sweet day though on my regular day off to be with them and take care of them. Bob has done a good job of being nurse Bob. I am surprised niether he nor Zach have gotten it.

Other thoughts:

• Yesterday we commissioned nine new Stephen Ministers. Yea!
• We are starting a new grief recovery ministry using our Stephen Ministers as listeners.
• We have applied to be an Angel Food Ministry host-site and had a good response at our first information meeting.
• We are starting a new type of new member's class beginning in Feb. We'll see how that goes.
• The Tribe, our 20 year old's group is growing, doing missions locally and getting ready for a big mission trip to Nicaragua.
• The worships service for the young adult age group is in planning stages and hopefully will get off the ground in the next couple of months.

Its an exciting time at Trinity and to be serving in ministry there.

One more thought, I am impressed that Barack has called on us to help rebuild our country in our neighborhoods and communities. Today, January 19th, our nation will come together in a shared spirit of community; on the eve of inauguration and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. If you want to know more you can go to USA Service to find out more.

Prayer for the 2nd Sunday of Epiphany

Beloved God,
You know us inside and out and you still call us to serve you.
Lord, honestly we are often hesitant, afraid, and wish to remain hidden.
Empower us to listen for and to hear your call
Empower us to answer your call with “Here I am Lord”
Empower us to follow you when you call us to follow you.

Lord of mercy and justice,
So many have gone before us working to bring
Justice and peace to our country and our world.
Their footsteps seem to big to step into to continue the work you have called us all to;
so we hesitantly step one step at a time, bringing your seeds of hope, justice and peace in a world crying out for them.

Lord of hope,
We pray for our country, our leaders and especially our new president as he is inaugurated into leading our country in tumultuous times. We pray for healing of our country, reconciliation, forgiveness and peace.

Lord of peace,
We pray for your compassion and healing for those individuals in our congregation who need it. We pray for your comfort and presence for those who are grieving lonely and oppressed. We pray for warmth, shelter, clothing and food for those who are without.

Lord we say to you this day,
“Here we are your servants willing to preach your word, offer care where care is needed, presence where presence is needed, your and love where your love is needed.”
Lord, strengthen us for our ministry today and everyday.
In the name of the Father, son and the Holy spirit amen.

cross posted at revgalblogpals and preaching to the choir

Prayer for the First Sunday after Epiphany, Year B

Creator God,
Your creation story is told again and again with each person’s baptism.
Your invitation to be part of the body of Christ is offered anew at each baptism.
Your claim on your children, that they are your beloved is told at each baptism.

Spark our memories of our baptism and your claim on our life.
Spark our desires to be part of the body of Christ.

Lord our world is angry, sad and confused with the battles in the Mid East, the Drug wars in Mexico, the economic woes, and the pain and suffering of your little ones all around the world.
We see the damage to your beautiful creation.
We see the destruction by natural disasters.
And we wonder how long?
We feel unsafe and insecure.

Lord in those times,
Spark us to remember our baptism.
Spark us to remember that it is in you that we are truly safe,
truly secure and that it doesn’t matter how long.
In the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

cross posted at revgalblogpals and my sermon blog

Ephiphany/Christmas 2 Sunday Prayer

God of Time and Space,
You are not bound by calendars, day timers, PDA’s and watches,
teach us to not be bound by them either.
God of the stars, the heavens, the planets and their orbits,
you sent a star to guide the magi on their journey to the Christ Child,
Send your star to guide us on journeys of faith.
God of Creation, your word spoke creation into being,
you sent your son as the light into a world of darkness,
God may your word still speak to us today,
May your son still be the light in our worlds of darkness.

God our dark world is a hotbed of fighting, pollution, starvation, and homelessness.
Teach to once again be stewards of your earth.
Bring forth you peace in the midst of the battles.
May there be plenty for those who are starving.
May there be homes for those without homes.

And just as the Magi brought gifts to the Christ Child
may we bring gifts to the Christ Child again. Amen

Cross Posted at revgalblogpals and my sermon blog

Three Cups of Tea and me

I have been meaning to read the book Three Cups of Tea for some time now, and just have not been able to get around to it. So I packed it in my bag for this trip and have been reading it in snatches whenever I can. I have even stayed up late reading it. I hope to finish reading it in time to give the copy to my mom and sister to read. It is a very powerful book to read.

In a time and culture when we pay more attention to movie stars, recording stars and athletes who make millions of dollars, here is a man who is so different and doing things so different. It is the story of Greg Mortenson who after a fall from K2 in the high mountains of Pakistan, began "climbing an other mountain." He has been self sacrificing, making very little income, putting his life on the line, to build schools, medical facilities and water filtration units for the people living in these mountains. And his work has made such an impact on these impoverished people, their homes, their communities and their families for a long time to come. I found myself drawn into his life work and into the villages and the people who lived there and their lives. I wanted to go work with him. I wish I had the single minded focus and passion he does.

If you have not read this book, read it, you will be glad you did. And then when you read it share it with someone else. And do something. There is a website for Three Cups of Tea and it tells you what you can do to help. And if this is not your passion and focus, then find out what it is and do something.

2008 Leadership Book Awards

Over at Christianity Today; Leadership Journal.net, they have put together a list of the ten books of 2008 deemed most valuable for church leaders. They have named it the Golden Canon. It is interesting to me that even though it means list they like the image of a canon and have included in the journal. Is there something to that? I think so. They divided it up by one's inner world and outer world of leadership. Have a look and let me know what you think.
Here's the list for your Outer World:
The Reason for God Belief in an age of skepticism by Tim Keller (Dutton)
Culture Making Recovering our creative calling by Andy Crouch (IVP)
Axiom Powerful leadership proverbs by Bill Hybels (Zondervan)
Consuming Jesus Beyond race and class divisions in a consumer church by Paul Louis Metzger (Eerdmans)
Church Unique How missional leaders cast vision, capture culture, and create movement by Will Mancini (Jossey-Bass)

Now for the Inner World:
Surprised by Hope Rethinking heaven, the resurrection, and the mission of the church by N.T. Wright (HarperOne)
The Jesus Way A conversation on the ways that Jesus is the Way by Eugene Peterson (Eerdmans)
The Attentive Life Discerning God's presence in all things by Leighton Ford (IVP)
Life with God Reading the Bible for spiritual transformation by Richard Foster (HarperOne)
Memoirs of an Ordinary Pastor The life and reflections of Tom Carson by D.A. Carson (Crossway)

Okay now tell me what you see. That's right, no books by women. I guess we aren't leaders or we just don't write good books for leaders in churches. But wait, maybe you know of a woman who leads or a good book about leadership that is written by a woman.

I am bothered by the title the Golden Canon and the image they chose to represent it also.

Baking sugar cookies and face painting

Saturday, the older adopted Chinese girls had a baking cookies and face painting party. We hosted it at the church, so one lone boy was along for the fun.

And it was a lot of fun had by all, including the parents. We had about five families with about nine kids in all. We get them together regularly so they can be with kids that look like themselves. They are often the only Asian in their classroom, grade or school. We also get them together so we parents can compare notes, celebrate and support each other.

The adults made the mix and baked the cookies. The kids did the cookie cutting and decorated them. I was surprised that there really wasn't that much of a mess to clean up even with all the icing, and sprinkles that got used. Some cookies ended up with more icing than anything else. One kid got creative and made cookie sandwiches. They were all very pretty and tasted good.

Then the oldest girl did face painting for the kids. She is quite the artist. She was also practicing for the Chinese New Year celebration. As you can see from Zach's she did a good job.

While the adults cleaned up and talked the kids were playing with the balloons we had brought to mark where we were meeting. They were having the best time. It was good to see everybody playing and having a good time.

My kids wanted to come home and bake some more, so we will have another baking time soon.

The Families with Children from China are having their Christmas party this Thursday, so that will be our next get together.

Say you want some yummy well decorated sugar cookies?

First Advent for us at Trinity

We had such a good time over Thanksgiving.
Our funds are a little low so we didn't do anything that cost money this weekend and that was okay. We just had a good time together.

Last night Trinity had an Old Fashioned Christmas for the families.
It involved bringing and sharing finger foods, bringing a gift for children of the Upper Sand Mountain Parish, and making a craft.
Afterward, the children presented their Christmas program "A Lesson and Carols" And they did a very good job. I got the privilege of doing the opening prayer and benediction. Our three sang with their group of kids and the larger group. It was a joy to hear their voices. Several people came up and said something about Zachary knowing all the words to the songs. Not surprised he is very quick to learn things.

I also enjoyed the worship in the contemporary service where we actually sang some advent hymns and had an advent candle lighting. We also baptized three children along with receiving a family into the church. It was a full worship service. Our new worship leader does such a good job.

Next week I preach in Traditional and we also have communion. It too will be a full service. And I love Traditional too.

This week is busy with the UMW big Christmas dinner, Blue Christmas Healing Service, the kids' Chinese party, and some other events. And while I write this it is snowing outside. Wow. Thank you God.

!st Sunday of Advent Prayer

Dear God,
Thank you for the time spent with families and friends over this holiday.
We begin today this journey of Advent with anticipation and hope.
We anticipate your coming today in our lives.
We anticipate the celebration of your birth.
We anticipate your coming again.
We hope for your presence in our lives today.
We hope for new beginnings.
We hope for healing in our lives.

Lord, our world cries out for hope and yet does not know where to look for that hope.
So Lord we cry out to you for the hopeless of the world.
We cry out to you for those who are in despair.
We cry out to you for those who are desperate.

Our hearts ache with yours Lord, when violence occurs and lives are lost.
We pray for those who mourn the loss of lives in Mumbai India.
We pray for the WalMart worker killed in the stampede of people on Friday.
We pray for those who find themselves in difficult financial circumstances.
And Lord as we observe World’s Aid Day, we pray for those who are still affected by Aids.

Lord we pray for your coming again that it may be soon for you are the hope of this world.
Amen.

Short circuited

Wah! Last night the laptop's ac adaptor cord short circuited. This is the one I use at the church and it has my notes, sermon notes, church notes all on it. Wah. I was hoping to avoid getting out in the shopping traffic especially with the wet weather. But gulp, swallow, it looks like we will be joining the others out shopping also.

At least I don't preach tomorrow, but I do preach Sunday, do a healing service on Wednesday, and work on invitational and congregational ministries during the week.

I have looked up in the yellow pages where I might find one that fits and I have three possibilities. After that it is order online from Dell.

Meanwhile, Bob and the kids are decorating for Christmas.

Black Friday/Buy Nothing Day/Cyber Monday

Today is celebrated as Black Friday, the day with all the sales and bargains that start early in the day. Already a worker at WalMart has died because of people rushing through the door. Sad. And others were injured, all for what a few bargains? And Monday is considered Cyber Monday, the day for all the bargains online and everybody buying on line.

But I am not out there today shopping and don't plan to be. My Aunt in who lived in Jacksonville always was before her death. Anytime we spent Thanksgiving in Jacksonville, it meant getting up early and going shopping on the Friday after Thanksgiving.

But this year we are even limiting what we are buying anyway. In fact we already bought it, but it is hid away. We might buy a few more small things for the kids, but we just aren't going to spend a lot of money.

Instead today, we went outside in our back yard. We cleaned it up while the kids played and helped. It was very nice. We are getting ready to go over to a friend's house for some more play time. What are you doing?

If you want to find out more about Buy Nothing Day or Buy Nothing Christmas, just click on the link.

Thanking God for you Friday Five

Phillipians 1:3 Every time I think of you, I give thanks to my God.

Singing Owl leads us in the Friday five from the revgalblogpals with the following; I'm musing about giving thanks for people today, partly because Americans celebrated our annual Thanksgiving holiday yesterday (I try not to just make this holiday "turkey day" even though its main feature seems to be eating till one is nearly comatose) and partly because I read the above verse this morning. It started me thinking about individuals in my life for whom I give thanks. For this post-Thanksgiving Day Friday Five, share with us "Five People For Whom You Give Thanks to God" and maybe tell us why they are significant.

1. My mom; well that says it all, she is my mom and God knew it sure would take her to raise a child like me.

2. My husband; he married me that is the significance, and God knew it would take him to be married to a woman like me.

3. 4. & 5. My three children; all of them are significant to me, and God knew it would take all three to raise a mom like me.

The bonus person; All the above are alive, but I am grateful for those who have long since died but who played a significant part in my becoming the person I have become.

Prayer for Christ the King Sunday

Merciful God, thank you for your son, who came to be our savior and Lord. We celebrate His Kingship; even though for some of us who have no King it is hard to understand what that means. God they nailed on Jesus cross the words calling him the King of the Jews. It was a joke. Lord let it not be a joke to us now. Your son, seems to be a different kind of King, he is the one who came to serve and not be served like so many earthly rulers. He still comes to us in faces, places, situations, and people that we would not recognize. And forgive us Lord because we do miss your son, and we don’t have eyes to see. Forgive us when we discount your children who are the least, the lost, the imprisoned, the sick, the stranger, the unclothed, the hungry, and the thirsty. Forgive us when we don’t serve them just as you serve us.
Lord we take time to remember the firefighters who are fighting the fires in Southern California, and those who have lost homes to the fires. We pray For world leaders who have come together to deal with the global financial crisis. We pray for all who are losing their jobs during this down turn. We pray for wisdom for our country leaders having to find ways to deal with the downturn. We pray for the continued problems in the Congo. We pray for the people of Zimbabwe who are faced with an outbreak of deaths brought on by cholera. We pray for the disease and unrest in the Mideast. We pray for peace. We pray for our President Elect as he prepares himself for taking office, brings on his cabinet and other government workers.

God today as we enter our places of worship to lead your children in worship speak the words through us that your children need to hear, including ourselves. Lord, pour your holy spirit into us that we will be servant of you with love and grace. Lord we worship and adore you. Amen.

Friday Five on Saturday

Well, with all the hospital visits and surgeries yesterday, I didn't get to do the Friday Five on Friday. So here I am playing on Saturday, since I don't have to be prepared for Sunday preaching. I do have a wedding later in the day to officiate at, but that won't be hard.

So without further adieu, here is the revgalblogpals Friday Five brought to you by Songbird;

In a minor domestic crisis, my food processor, or more precisely the part you use for almost everything for which I use a food processor, picked the eve of the festive season of the year to give up the ghost. A crack in the lid expanded such that a batch of squash soup had to be liberated via that column shaped thing that sticks up on top.Can you tell this is not my area of strength?Next week, I'm hosting Thanksgiving. I need your help.

Please answer the following kitchen-related questions:

1) Do you have a food processor? Can you recommend it? Which is to say, do you actually use it? Had it, no longer have it. Don't know if I lost it in the move or not. Used it infrquently.

2) And if so, do you use the fancy things on it? (Mine came with a mini-blender (used a lot and long ago broken) and these scary disks you used to julienne things (used once).) You know, I think I used it for chopping nuts, and some other stuff; but it was so long ago, I don't remember

3) Do you use a standing mixer? Or one of the hand-held varieties?(And isn't that color delightfully retro?) Yes, I have one of the hand-held ones in that delightful I am not sure what retro color it is, sort of a mustard color. But it works.

4) How about a blender? Do you have one? Use it much? Oh yes, you have got to have one of them.

5) Finally, what old-fashioned, non-electric kitchen tool do you enjoy using the most? Enjoy, does that go with cooking?

Bonus: Is there a kitchen appliance or utensil you ONLY use at Thanksgiving or some other holiday? If so, what is it? You have to use an appliance or utensil at Thanksgiving or holiday? You can't go out to eat or order the meal for take out? What kind of craziness is this? I don't cook these days. Bake on occasion yes, but not cook. I did buy a cookbook recently to teach the kids how to cook and we have been cooking out of it some.

Missing preaching regularly

Today is Saturday, I would be wrapping up a sermon for Sunday. But I don't preach tomorrow. I don't preach next week and I did not preach last week. Sigh. I know it sounds silly, but I am missing it, the regularity, the rhythm and rhyme of sermon writing. I preach the second week of Advent on the First Sunday in Dec. and again on the third week of Advent or the second week of Dec. And then I preach Christmas eve and then the first Sunday of the new year. Sigh. It is hard to get in the rhythm of writing, thinking, feeling and listening.

But frankly with all I do I don't have time to write weekly sermons. I enjoy what I do, and all the people I am working with. I like developing the congregational care ministries and the invitational ministries. I am really enjoying the young adults.

I just miss preaching regular.

Sunday prayer

Merciful God, in the stillness of this morning, we come on bended knee, bended heart, and bended mind, yielding ourselves to you. We ask for your breath to be breathed on us as we prepare to go into your sanctuary to worship you.
We admit there are ways we sinned this week with word and deed and sometimes inaction, or carelessness. Forgive us we pray so that we can be freed from those chains to lift our hands in praise to you and to receive your grace and mercy.
God, we come before you not just for ourselves but for those of our congregations who are sick, suffering, home bound and in nursing homes. We pray for those carrying grief heavily around their hearts. We pray for those worried about their jobs, their homes, and their diminishing retirement income. We pray for our family members, and our friends.
We pray for our world that is at war, in starvation and in chaos. We pray for people of the Democratic Republic of Congo and others who are displaced by war. We pray for those who children died in the collapse of the schools in Haiti. We pray for all people that are in the midst of pain and struggle that you would be their salvation, their refuge and dwelling place. And we pray for the end to modern day slave trade. We also pray your wisdom for the world leaders who have come together to address the worldwide economic crisis.
Lord, today’s scripture reminds us that we have been given so much by you only to hide it, or squander it. Lord, help us to know how to put to use the resources that you have given us so that it yields greater value not for us, but for you. Help us to know how to lead our churches to not hide the resources you have given them either.
Thank you for Lord for your many gifts and resources you do give us. Thank you for your many blessings and for your tender mercies.
We pray all this and more through your son Jesus.

cross posted at revgalprayerpals and preaching to the choir(sermon blog)

Friday Five: Rememberance

Sophia gives us the Friday Five at revgalblogpals. Its a heavy one, so get your Kleenex ready. Earlier this week the U.S. celebrated Veterans' Day, known in many other countries as Remembrance Day. At this time last year I was commuting to a postdoc in Canada, and I was moved by the many red poppies that showed up there on people's lapels in honor of the observance. Unlike a flag lapel pin, which to me has political connotations and implies approval of our current war, the poppies simply honor the sacrifice and dedication of those who have followed their consciences by serving--sometimes dying--in the military.

This week's Friday Five invites reflection on the theme of remembrance, which is also present in the feasts of All Saints, celebrated in many liturgical churches on November 1, and All Souls--known in Latin@ cultures as the Day of the Dead--celebrated in some the following day.

1. Did your church have any special celebrations for All Saints/All Soul's Day? Yes, the choir did The Requiem by Mozart and it was magnificent. We did the naming of those who died this year with lighting a candle for each one and ringing a bell. We had a full service. Lots of people were there.

2. How about Veterans' Day? Nope.

3. Did you and your family have a holiday for Veterans' Day/Remembrance Day? If so, how did you take advantage of the break? Yes, we took a break and rested, spent time together and played. We somehow or another forgot about the parade and missed it.

4. Is there a veteran in your life, living or dead, whose dedication you remember and celebrate? Or perhaps a loved one presently serving in the armed forces? Oh boy, if you read my blog post on this, you would find out the answer. My grand dad was a WWI vet and made me very aware of the cost the WWI vets made. But my dad is a vet, my husband is a vet, my son is a vet. My nephews are presently serving in Iraq. One is a marine. The other is in the army and this is his second time over there.

5. Do you have any personal rituals which help you remember and connect with loved ones who have passed on? I don't, but my mind does. It will pop the memory tape in before I know what's happening. But you know now days it is a lot of pleasant memories.

The bonus question: Did you ever want to serve? I wanted to serve in the Army when I finished high school, but my parents put a halt to that. When I was in college I was recommended for officer training in the army, but at that time I had become a dove and refused to have any part of the military. It was Viet Nam days. At one point I felt led to become a Chaplain in the military, and even went through the interviews, physicals etc. The Navy was ready for me, but I couldn't get the endorsing agency to cooperate with me, so I didn't get in. After that I was too old, but still got invites to be a Chaplain. Sometimes I wish I had and most of the time I am glad I didn't. I wouldn't have been very good at this war stuff. And we went to war the year right after I was trying to get into the Navy Chaplaincy corp. God watches out for fools like me.

(pictures: The pictures of poppies in Flanders field. Pictures of crosses in Flanders Field.)

A salute to veterans

I am child of a veteran and a granddaughter of veteran.

I have son who is a veteran.

I have nephews presently serving in Iraq;
one in the army and one in the marines.

I live with a veteran.

I serve a church full of veterans.

I live in a town full of veterans.



And sadly I live in a town that has homeless,
and jobless veterans. Cartoon by
Jimmy Margulies



To all the veterans I know and don't know, I salute you today and I thank you for our freedom.

I pray for more recent veterans who now suffer so much from these recent wars.

In honor of the veterans a cartoon by Jeff Koterba, Omaha World Herald, NE;

If you have a chance check out the political cartoons on Veteran's day

Sunday prayer

Dear God, source of wisdom and truth. Grant us your wisdom to always be prepared for you coming today and everyday. We don’t know how or who or when that may be. But Lord, let us be ready, let us not be found unprepared and miss the joy of your presence. Lord we pray for ou President Elect and vice President elect, give them wisdom as well as they prepare to lead us during this financial crisis we are presently in.
We pray also Lord, for the continued fighting and strife in our world. We pray for the countries that have been affected by this hurricane and those that are in the path. We pray for other parts of our world that are in times of crisis and need.
We pray for wisdom as we gather in our various places of worship to worship you. We pray your spirit guides us who preach this Sunday, those who lead in worship, those who teach and those who greet. We pray that our minds, our hearts, and our souls be focused on you.
And Lord we pray that you would come Lord Jesus, come and that we welcome you with open arms.
Amen

cross posted at revgalblogpals

Friday Five-The Funny Ppaers!

I am up for this Friday Five. And Thank God it is a funny one, thanks to Presbyterian Gal at revgalblogpals! So lets get reading the educational section of the paper as my hubby calls it or the Funny Papers.

After an exhausting election here in the states it's time for some spirit lifting! Join me with a nice cup of tea or coffee or cocoa and let's sit back and read the Funny Papers!
1. What was your favorite comic strip as a child? I honestly don't remember, it was that long ago. I just remember that I would read all of them. My mom and dad would be yelling at me to get ready for church and I would keep reading. But if I had to choose, it would be I can't make a choice, please don't make me. Okay, I'll do it, but quit twistin my arm. I liked Peanuts.
2. Which comic strip today most consistently tickles your funny bone? Hi and Lois
3. Which Peanuts character is closest to being you? Peppermint Patty
4. Some say that comic strips have replaced philosophy as a paying job, so to speak. Does this ring true with you? Uh? But as I said, my hubby calls them the Educational Section of the Paper.
5. What do you think the appeal is for the really long running comic strips like Blondie, Family Circus, Dennis the Menace as some examples? Family life that you can relate to and the cartoonist bring out in; so we end up laughing with it and laughing ourselves.
Bonus question: Which discontinued comic strip would you like to see back in print? Calvin and Hobbs. I really miss it. And then the other would be Far Side. Now those two were the ones that were philosophers.

My bonus bonus question: what was your favorite when you were in college and young adult? Without a doubt it would be Doonsebury.

All Saints Sunday prayer

Lord,
We are living in anxious times made more tense by economic pressures, foreclosures, and uneasiness about the upcoming election.
Today Lord we pray for those who are being affected by economic hardships in these difficult times.
We pray that as we go to vote this Tuesday; that we preserve our dignity and those around us as we may wait in long lines, and may be anxious about casting our votes.
We pray that voters may be able to cast their vote freely and willingly.
And Lord we pray for those peoples in countries that voting is not such a freedom.
We pray for the end to the fighting in the DR Congo and in Afghanistan, Iraq and Gaza.
We pray for those living in extreme poverty and hunger in the Asian, African and Latin American countries.
Lord we pray for all the saints, famous, and unknown, we lift them now in prayer to you.
We remember that they served you in faithfulness and love.
We remember that they were imperfect human beings, only made perfect by your grace.
We remember those of our own families……
We remember those of our own friends…….
We remember those of our revgalblogpals……

Lord, help us to remember that we too are saints in the making
being made perfect by your grace.Lord help us remember that we are not alone in this journey of faith we are on.
We pray that all we say and do today be in worship of you , Lord.
Amen

cross posted at RevGalBlogPals

The economic Crisis

The economic crisis is hitting our lives in so many places and in so many ways. There is a lot out there in the media writing about it. It is enough to scare you to death. I was asked by one of our United Methodist Women circles to write something for them to use at their meeting to lead into a discussion. This is what I wrote.

When I was at the Catalyst Conference this last week, Dave Ramsey was one of the speakers. He reminded us that we have not been given a spirit of fear. He told us that the media has stirred up a lot of fear and reactivity. He said we should get ourselves out of personal debt if we are in debt. He thinks we should keep tithing and saving as we can and live within our means. He thinks the markets will rebound and that at the same time we are in for a rough ride for sometime. But that we should have a spirit of fear. He said that we as Christians who live within "God's principles" have a witness to those who have bought into Consumerism mentality and the fear mentality.

I think it is important to remember that no matter what the crisis is in our lives, God is on his throne. I won't lie or cover this up, it may get very bad before it gets better. We don't honestly know where this is going to go. But as Dr. Gattis and I were talking about this, no matter how bad it gets we will still be better off than most of the world. And that it is important to keep our focus on God and eternal things than temporal things.

The following was taken from an article by Al Mohler in Christianity Today: "Greed raises its ugly head when individuals and groups seek an unrealistic gain at the expense of others and then use illegitimate means to gain what they want. Given the nature of this fallen world and the reality of human sinfulness, we should expect that greed will be a constant temptation. Greed will entice the rich to oppress the poor, partners in transactions to lie to one another, and investors to take irrational risks. All of these are evident in this current crisis.

The current crisis sheds light on what happens when things get out of control, when various pressures distort the proper operation of the markets, and when irrational valuations entice investors to make poor investments. Dishonesty enters the picture at many levels, and the individual investor is too often left in the dark. When these things happen the economy is threatened by a lack of trust, and trust is the most essential commodity of all when it comes to economic transactions. Without trust, the entire system collapses.

Christians should think seriously about this economic crisis and ponder what it would mean to come to a Christian understanding of what it means to be participants in this economy. This current crisis should also remind Christians that we are not called to be mere economic actors, but stewards. Everything we are, everything we do, and everything we own truly belongs to God and is to be at the disposal of Kingdom purposes. This world is not our home and our treasure is not found here. We are to do all, invest all, own all, purchase all to the glory of God."

Our denomination, The United Methodist Church, declares in its Social Principles that all economic systems are “to be under the judgment of God … and recognizes the responsibility of governments to develop and implement sound fiscal and monetary policies that provide for the economic life of individuals and corporate entities, and that ensure full employment and adequate incomes” (¶163 IV. The Economic Community, "Social Principles," The United Methodist Book of Discipline).

I think Jesus was very clear when he said Matthew 6:19 "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." If we follow this passage, then we have nothing to fear. We have a God perspective about what is going on. We realize that if unhealthy selfish greed got into the CEO's and money managers, that they had not laid up their treasures in heaven and did not have a God perspective. We also see this things for a God perspective. We do live in a sinful world, and thus we as humans are tempted to sin and do sin. But we can always repent and ask God's forgiveness and turn around. I say that to say, there has got be a whole lot of repenting going on by those who sinned when it came to the abuse of money, and lending practices. But there is a whole lot of forgiveness on God's part as well.

John Wesley, the founder of Methodism said the following about money;
"We ought to gain all we can gain but this it is certain we ought not to do; we ought not to gain money at the expense of life, nor at the expense of our health. "
"Having, First, gained all you can, and, Secondly saved all you can, Then 'give all you can.'"
He said the purpose of earning and saving is giving and that you should then give to the following:

"First you should give to yourself--food, clothes, shelter--what moderate living requires. Second, you should give to your family and employees providing for their needs. Third, if there is still money left, you should give to the household of faith--other Christians. Fourth, you should give to all men in need."

This is what he thought it meant to "lay up" treasure and reasons to set aside money:

• To pay your debts for this is right.
• To provide yourself the necessities of life.
• To provide for your family is your duty.
• Necessary investment to carry on business.

“When I have money, I get rid of it quickly, lest it find a way into my heart.”

During his time in England there was a great divide between the wealthy and the poor. Wesley became very concerned for the poor in England, and became very involved in trying to improve their lives. He proceeded to venture into London during much of his free time and work with the poor, providing medical aid where he could. Wesley and his Methodists worked hard to raise the money to provide food and clothing for the poor. One of his more innovative ideas, in my eyes, is that Wesley introduced interest-free loans to the poor in London, “rescuing them from lenders demanding extortionate interest that would have compounded their distress.” (Marquardt, 29). In addition, Wesley’s Methodists devoted themselves to helping the poor to find jobs. In a time and place in which many viewed poverty and sickness as an indicator of the worth of the individual, Wesley preached God’s love for all mankind and demanded unrestricted love for one’s neighbor.

And Jesus said;
Your father knows what you need before you ask him. So do not worry, saying 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Today's trouble is enough for today. (Matthew 6:8b, 31-34)

Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten in God's sight. But even the hairs of your head are all counted. Do not be afraid; you are of more value than many sparrows. (Luke 12:6-7)

Can any of you by worrying add a single hour to your span of life? If then you are not able to do so small a thing as that, why do you worry about the rest. (Luke 12:25-26)

Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom. (Luke 12:32)

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid. (John 14:27)

I also highly recommend Sojourner Magazine and the blog God's Politics by Jim Wallis.

Feeling hopeful about Young People

Last week I went to another church conference called Catalyst. I was the clergy person with six other lay people. Of the six four were in the age group categorized as young people. Just being with those four from our church was energizing. But to be with all the young people who were at Catalyst was just awesome. I found hope for the Kingdom of God listening and being with them.

The worship was high energy. Young worship leaders led us in worship and I do mean led in worship, not just had us singing. Young people who are some of the up and coming Pastors taught. There were presentations as well by some of the Pastors who are considered good leaders such as Andy Stanley. And there were presentations from leaders in the business world, like the author of Good to Great. There was even play time. And there was presentations by different missions and social justice leaders. It was a powerful time. I haven't written my notes from this conference yet into my computer; I didn't take my laptop and I am glad I didn't. And I am still processing the experience. Would I go again? Yes. Would I recommend it to others? Yes.

The only criticism I found is that they are trying to diverse and be multicultural, but they did not achieve it. The Festival of Homiletics does a better job of that. They had an African American Female speak, and that's that. No other women leaders. No other African Americans, no others from other races. And it seemed to be dominated by White Males from the Baptist or non denominational groups. That's okay, but does that mean they are the only ones who know how to lead?

Next year they are going to do things differently. Not only will Catalyst be in Atlanta but it will also be in California. They also will be offering some one day events around the country. You can go to Catalyst Space to find out more about these events.

On our way home the four of us in our car did some processing of the event. We also asked the Young adult in our car to tell us what he got from it and what we could bring from it to Trinity. It was very insightful and I'll write more about this later. We plan to get together the 7 of us and then bring in more persons to join us in the discussion. Please pray for us as we do this. I'll also write more about what I learned from Catalyst later.

Bob was proud of me, I didn't buy any more books. However, I bought the Catalyst package and access to their online community. Am I going next year? Yes, if I can.

Mayoral Election today

Today is local elections.
I find it interesting that the two candidates running for Mayor are both Methodist.
The present Mayor goes to First Methodist and the challenger goes to Trinity Methodist.
This is actually a run off.
Mayor Spencer has been mayor a long time here in Huntsville and has done some really good things, and brought in some major businesses. But in the last years there have been some lapses and problems in the local government. The city lost the VW bid to Chattanooga. They thought it was a done deal, but Chattanooga had the better deal for VW. I don't think you can blame it all on the Mayor but you can give some to her administration.The city prison that was being built is a major disastor and costing more than it should.

I like Tommy Battle, the challenger. He is an active member at Trinity.
He has some good ideas, and has some plans to continue the growth of Huntsville.
It is hard to beat an incumbent and one who is well liked and for the most part has done a good job. But even so, I am going to vote for Tommy.

It will be interesting to see the results at the end of the day.

Fall Break

The weather is lovely, just lovely.
It is just cool enough, not too cool.
I love this time of year.

The school has a fall break this week.
I think it must be for the teachers as much as the kids.
It sure isn't for the parents.

We didn't get a week away, because of work, money, and cost.
I am on the bottom of the totem pole as the new clergy person,
so I get to put my dibs in for vacation last.
Two people had already gotten this week.

So pray for us while we have the kids at home the main part of the week.
This morning they woke up so excited they could not contain themselves.
They are already wild, and Zach is being smart-alecky already.
Fortunately the church is running their Camp Trinity this week for school age kids.

I will say that Halloween coming has added to their excitement also.
We got their costumes this weekend and they are cute.
Kara is a pirate girl, Katy has a medieval costume, and Zach is Darth Vadar.
They were running around this weekend with their costumes on
pretending they were actually those people.

Kara has pirate sword and Zach has a light saber,
so Katy had to get her some thing to hold.
The store didn't have any thing that really fit her costume,
so she got a pitchfork.
They have been chasing each other with these things.
Had to tell them if you break it, it isn't going to be replaced.

Fun, Fun, Fun.
Memories, Memories, Memories

isee and iphone

Well, I gave in and got an iphone yesterday. Our contract was up on our old cell phone and I was looking for a phone that I could do some things I could not do with my other cell phone. It is suppose to be easy to use. However, it has such a learning curve for people like me that it may take me awhile to learn how to do those things. But other than that, I really like the iphone. It is so cool. Now I won't be the only one in meetings not surfing the web or not texting. But man is that annoying. The next thing we are going to have to do is connect our worship services with text messaging or web stuff so people who are tempted to pull out their phones in worship will have something to log into that connects with the worship. MMM not a bad idea.

iphone/iworship/iGod.