Healthy relationships and our connection to others are important to our lives. Whether in the context of the larger community, or with a special person, relationships are absolutely vital for our psychological and emotional needs; as well as for our spiritual growth and nurture. Humanity was not meant to live as individuals, in isolation. Even the Desert Fathers of the early church who lived as hermits in their cells, gathered together in communal worship on occasion. The very nature of God is community, for God is Trinity. The mystery of God is three diverse “persons” yet one complete and holy substance. We are made in the image of God and therefore have the same need to be in community with each other, as well as one substance (in the theological sense of the word) with those we love. Connection to others is an essential and core need that we all have and desire. However, we often find sharing our lives in community or in communion with one another difficult and a double edged sword.
We exist in a broken and imperfect world. The nature of sin is to divide and cut us off from God, our inner selves and each other. All too often while we find ourselves desperately craving communion and relationship with others, we also find ourselves struggling with the demands of what it means to live in those relationships. Since we are not God and will never be able to live a life in perfect communal harmony in this world, nor achieve the ability to completely give of ourselves wholly and unconditionally, the struggle with relationships is an ongoing and constant tension; we deeply desire communion with each other, yet at the same time struggle with the preservation of the self, and our own needs and identity. The constant human struggle to find the perfect balance between the self and the other is a continuous and ongoing challenge. This is the exact reason why personal relationships and life in community should be built on the sure and solid foundation - Christ Jesus.
Jesus was God’s outreach mission to this divisive and struggling creation; a creation that experienced the “Great Fall” in the Garden of Eden. What was once a perfect communion between humanity and God, and humanity within its own context, became a split and self-centered need for individuality. Here lies the real crux and root of our struggle with relationships. We were innately created to live in perfect harmony with one another, yet because of the divisive nature of sin we long to grow as selfish individuals with the sole desire to have our own needs met.
God longs for us to live in perfect communion with him and each other. Jesus’ mission was a sacrifice that brought to each of us the opportunity for reconciliation, renewal and forgiveness. In Christ there is a new creation which means there is a new hope and a renewed opportunity for communion. When we place Jesus at the center of our lives and build our relationships on him we find that we have a strong foundation to live and exist in community. With Christ as our sure foundation our relationships in this lifetime and world, while still far from perfect, are continuously renewed and reconciled. The miracle that we experience is the ongoing ability to live in a healthy, meaningful and nurturing relationship with each other, despite the constant struggle with our self- centered tendencies. The key here is Christ Jesus. The key is centering ourselves in him so that we are better able to center our thoughts and actions on others. The key is losing ourselves in Christ, so that we may find ourselves living a life of unconditional love for others. The death of the individual self brings on the resurrected self. A new identity is born and expressed in selfless love and a desire to sacrifice ourselves for not only the other, but the greater community as well. If we all live our lives in this unselfish manner then we find our own needs met in ways that go beyond our superficial desires. We also find ourselves living a life in community that is modeling the community of God.
Monday, December 29, 2008
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Christ is...
In the dark stillness of the morning we encounter the Risen Christ.
In the stillness of the heart we feel Christ's presence.
In the stillness of the mind our souls transcend the brokenness of the world.
Christ is my governor;
my sure defense.
Christ is my hope and source of all strength.
Christ is my master and beloved guide.
Christ is my redeemer and transformer;
my font of joy.
Christ is my source of true humility and sincere kindness;
yet powerful and fearful.
Christ is the sword;
the living Word of God that cuts through all evil.
Jesus is my redeemer and source of hope.
Jesus is my recompense and all that is made whole.
Jesus is my peace and source of healing.
Jesus is my comforter in times of turmoil;
my beloved companion in times of fear and doubt.
Jesus is my source of reassurance and standard for truth.
In the mirror I must look deeply into the eyes of the person who stares back.
There is Christ who searches my heart.
There is Christ who shows me my faults.
There is Christ who brings my secrets to light.
There is Christ who exposes my broken dreams and crushed heart.
Come mighty Savior and bring healing and hope.
Come mighty Savior and wash away the tears of despair.
Come most Holy One of God and liberate my soul.
Come most Beloved Redeemer and renew me from within.
Christ is the holy light of God that transcends all darkness.
May the joy of this Christmas season fill your hearts with the passion;
the blessed passion that comes from living in the presence of the Incarnate God.
When he, the Spirit of truth, comes,
he will guide you into all truth.
He will not speak on his own;
he will speak only what he hears,
and he will guide you into all truth.
John 16:13
In the stillness of the heart we feel Christ's presence.
In the stillness of the mind our souls transcend the brokenness of the world.
Christ is my governor;
my sure defense.
Christ is my hope and source of all strength.
Christ is my master and beloved guide.
Christ is my redeemer and transformer;
my font of joy.
Christ is my source of true humility and sincere kindness;
yet powerful and fearful.
Christ is the sword;
the living Word of God that cuts through all evil.
Jesus is my redeemer and source of hope.
Jesus is my recompense and all that is made whole.
Jesus is my peace and source of healing.
Jesus is my comforter in times of turmoil;
my beloved companion in times of fear and doubt.
Jesus is my source of reassurance and standard for truth.
In the mirror I must look deeply into the eyes of the person who stares back.
There is Christ who searches my heart.
There is Christ who shows me my faults.
There is Christ who brings my secrets to light.
There is Christ who exposes my broken dreams and crushed heart.
Come mighty Savior and bring healing and hope.
Come mighty Savior and wash away the tears of despair.
Come most Holy One of God and liberate my soul.
Come most Beloved Redeemer and renew me from within.
Christ is the holy light of God that transcends all darkness.
May the joy of this Christmas season fill your hearts with the passion;
the blessed passion that comes from living in the presence of the Incarnate God.
When he, the Spirit of truth, comes,
he will guide you into all truth.
He will not speak on his own;
he will speak only what he hears,
and he will guide you into all truth.
John 16:13
To us a Savior is Born! On the Wrong side of the Tracks?
As a young child growing up in Augusta, GA my family and I had a nice home and a good life. There was just one problem – we lived on the wrong side of the railroad tracks. We lived on the more impoverished and lower class side of the city, and believe me -those railroad tracks were a very real and invincible barrier or (invisible wall). My father’s job, our schools and church were all located on the other side of the tracks (the politically and socially right side). Everyday we crossed over those railroad tracks as we went about our daily routine. When we told folks where we lived I remember (vividly) the slight pause followed by a drawled out southern – “Oh, I see. Over there.” That invisible barrier was something that haunted me, and at times even caused shame. It was hurtful to be looked at as “one of those people who lived over there.”
Walls and barriers are hurtful and they are a complete contradiction to the divine nature of God. Many of you may have read about, or be familiar with the Israeli construction of a 25’ concrete wall around the city of Bethlehem. Because of very real fear and threat of suicide bombers, the Israeli government has taken extreme measures to protect itself and her people. While I certainly understand the need to protect and preserve our safety, unfortunately there are many innocent people who now suffer due to this wall.
Can you imagine the hardship that this wall has created for the people who live in Bethlehem – on the wrong side of the wall? They have to go through intense screening in order to pass through to the other side just to get to work or visit family. This wall has virtually sealed off the people of Bethlehem, and destroyed the cities economy. (Yet) that’s what walls tend to do that don’t they? That is their nature; they cut us off; they confine us and narrow our views; they separate us from the world, and all too often cast some kind of negative label on those who happen to live on the wrong side.
Walls are not a part of God’s nature; instead they are part of the nature of sin. The very nature of sin is to divide, and cut us off from God. This is why God decided that enough was enough. God decided that he had been cut off from his people long enough. God didn’t build these walls, we (humanity) built them, and whether we realized it or not – suddenly found ourselves trapped on the wrong side. Rather than allow a barrier to separate us, God sent his only son to be born into this world; and guess what? He was born on the wrong side of the tracks (or wall).
In Jesus’ day, Bethlehem was still a small, out of the way and forgotten town. It certainly wasn’t as magnificent as the city of Rome, nor did it have the appeal and attention of the city of Jerusalem. Bethlehem was an impoverished area that was basically on the wrong side of the tracks. But note, God doesn’t allow barriers to interfere with his judgment and desire for community. Why? Well just look at this evenings Gospel reading from Luke - Who did God send the angels to visit? It wasn’t the powerful and rich; it wasn’t to the mighty and powerful Rome; nor was it to the thriving towns and villages surrounding Jerusalem. Instead, God sent his angels to Bethlehem – in other words - “Over there.” They then proclaimed their good news and tidings of joy to the poorest of the poor – the shepherds. Shepherds – these were the despised people of the night. They were virtually unknown to the world that slept during the darkness. By the light of day the shepherds went unnoticed, and ignored – seen as nothing but despised beggars or unclean pests.
The shepherds are important to God’s Incarnation; they are important because they represent all of the lowly who live in this world. They represent all those who are despised, unnoticed and living on the wrong side of the tracks or wall. But the shepherds remind us that we are all (every single one of us, no matter where we find ourselves in life) under God’s heavenly protection and divine love.
(You see) Christ came into this world to smash the walls that separate us from God, and to pull up the divisive tracks that sin has laid down. This is the whole purpose of the Incarnation – God became flesh and humbly dwelt among us to liberate you and me from the walls, chains and tracks created by sin.
In the Nativity story in Luke's Gospel (a story that I have read a million times- at least!) I discovered something new; a word seen in a new light. The Gospel doesn’t simply say that “Christ was born;” Luke writes. “But to you he is born.” The Angel of the Lord doesn’t simply tell the lowly shepherds tending their field under the shroud of darkness, “ I bring glad tidings.” The Angel of the Lord proclaims to the shepherds, “But to you I bring glad tidings of great joy!” The key word is “you.” Luke is telling us that Christ came into this world for the sake of - “you” (and of course me too). This joy would spread outward from Christ across all barriers (invisible or not) to be for all people. Christ in the manger levels the playing field. Christ in the nativity transcends the walls erected by humanity; Christ in his simple yet glorious birth strikes a spear of brilliant light and hope into a dark, dismal and broken world. And when the tip of that spear penetrates sin's barriers and prejudices, a transcendent love of great magnitude is born; a penetrating light that is of God; a radical and healing light that transforms every single life it touches!
Tonight is a night of Good News for "you!" For tonight Christ doesn’t just become an icon of hope; Christ becomes our actual living hope; a hope that is personal to you; a living hope that abolishes all worldly barriers that separates you and me from the love of God. Tonight the angels bring us great news and joyful tidings of God’s redeeming and reconciling love. So rejoice! The birth of Christ crumbled the spiritual walls that cut us off from God. The birth of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior has renewed our connection to God and absolutely nothing (not even the divisive tracks) can ever separate us again.
Walls and barriers are hurtful and they are a complete contradiction to the divine nature of God. Many of you may have read about, or be familiar with the Israeli construction of a 25’ concrete wall around the city of Bethlehem. Because of very real fear and threat of suicide bombers, the Israeli government has taken extreme measures to protect itself and her people. While I certainly understand the need to protect and preserve our safety, unfortunately there are many innocent people who now suffer due to this wall.
Can you imagine the hardship that this wall has created for the people who live in Bethlehem – on the wrong side of the wall? They have to go through intense screening in order to pass through to the other side just to get to work or visit family. This wall has virtually sealed off the people of Bethlehem, and destroyed the cities economy. (Yet) that’s what walls tend to do that don’t they? That is their nature; they cut us off; they confine us and narrow our views; they separate us from the world, and all too often cast some kind of negative label on those who happen to live on the wrong side.
Walls are not a part of God’s nature; instead they are part of the nature of sin. The very nature of sin is to divide, and cut us off from God. This is why God decided that enough was enough. God decided that he had been cut off from his people long enough. God didn’t build these walls, we (humanity) built them, and whether we realized it or not – suddenly found ourselves trapped on the wrong side. Rather than allow a barrier to separate us, God sent his only son to be born into this world; and guess what? He was born on the wrong side of the tracks (or wall).
In Jesus’ day, Bethlehem was still a small, out of the way and forgotten town. It certainly wasn’t as magnificent as the city of Rome, nor did it have the appeal and attention of the city of Jerusalem. Bethlehem was an impoverished area that was basically on the wrong side of the tracks. But note, God doesn’t allow barriers to interfere with his judgment and desire for community. Why? Well just look at this evenings Gospel reading from Luke - Who did God send the angels to visit? It wasn’t the powerful and rich; it wasn’t to the mighty and powerful Rome; nor was it to the thriving towns and villages surrounding Jerusalem. Instead, God sent his angels to Bethlehem – in other words - “Over there.” They then proclaimed their good news and tidings of joy to the poorest of the poor – the shepherds. Shepherds – these were the despised people of the night. They were virtually unknown to the world that slept during the darkness. By the light of day the shepherds went unnoticed, and ignored – seen as nothing but despised beggars or unclean pests.
The shepherds are important to God’s Incarnation; they are important because they represent all of the lowly who live in this world. They represent all those who are despised, unnoticed and living on the wrong side of the tracks or wall. But the shepherds remind us that we are all (every single one of us, no matter where we find ourselves in life) under God’s heavenly protection and divine love.
(You see) Christ came into this world to smash the walls that separate us from God, and to pull up the divisive tracks that sin has laid down. This is the whole purpose of the Incarnation – God became flesh and humbly dwelt among us to liberate you and me from the walls, chains and tracks created by sin.
In the Nativity story in Luke's Gospel (a story that I have read a million times- at least!) I discovered something new; a word seen in a new light. The Gospel doesn’t simply say that “Christ was born;” Luke writes. “But to you he is born.” The Angel of the Lord doesn’t simply tell the lowly shepherds tending their field under the shroud of darkness, “ I bring glad tidings.” The Angel of the Lord proclaims to the shepherds, “But to you I bring glad tidings of great joy!” The key word is “you.” Luke is telling us that Christ came into this world for the sake of - “you” (and of course me too). This joy would spread outward from Christ across all barriers (invisible or not) to be for all people. Christ in the manger levels the playing field. Christ in the nativity transcends the walls erected by humanity; Christ in his simple yet glorious birth strikes a spear of brilliant light and hope into a dark, dismal and broken world. And when the tip of that spear penetrates sin's barriers and prejudices, a transcendent love of great magnitude is born; a penetrating light that is of God; a radical and healing light that transforms every single life it touches!
Tonight is a night of Good News for "you!" For tonight Christ doesn’t just become an icon of hope; Christ becomes our actual living hope; a hope that is personal to you; a living hope that abolishes all worldly barriers that separates you and me from the love of God. Tonight the angels bring us great news and joyful tidings of God’s redeeming and reconciling love. So rejoice! The birth of Christ crumbled the spiritual walls that cut us off from God. The birth of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior has renewed our connection to God and absolutely nothing (not even the divisive tracks) can ever separate us again.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
God's Light in the Innocent Eyes of Hope
God's transcendent grace and benevolent hope never ceases to amaze me. Just when everything looks bleakest, God suddenly moves and works at the most unexpected times, and often in the most expected places. This morning I experienced one of those incredible moments and divine encounters.
Today I had the privilege of leading the weekly chapel service at my children's school. It was an awesome experience! St. Andrew's is a wonderful Episcopal Church school located in Richmond, Virginia. The schools original and primary mission is to elementary age children of low income families. St. Andrew's is rich in diversity, and a place in which God's love is truly at work.
Because I had to work late last night, I was tired and didn't feel as prepared as I would have liked this morning. I walked into chapel all worried and stressed out about 'my' message to the children; worried about what 'I' was going to say to them; hoping 'I' would be able to preach a few profound words of faith. As usual my hope was to assist the children in their faith development by planting a few good seeds. Well, what ended up happening was - they assisted me in my faith. Where as I though I was the one with the message to deliver, it turned out to be the other way around. It was the children who had the actual message for me.
While leading the service, I looked into the bright and radiant eyes of innocence, and suddenly witnessed God's profound revelation of hope to this broken world. These young children whose ages range from 5 years old to 10 years old are our future. Their beautiful voices lifted up in song and praise to God, while at the same time the piano rang out with its wonderful melody. It was in this instance that a peaceful sense of clarity overcame my spirit. While we adults continue to struggle with the poor economy and worry over the pressures of life, I was reminded by these little children that love and joy are an innate and important part of our lives. When we approach Jesus as a child, God draws out that beautiful and untainted innocence that exists within each one of us. As his children, no matter what this world thows at us, in Jesus we are made innocent and pure, untouched by the shadows of decay.
Nevertheless, as I sit here at my computer I still have all of the same worries and concerns that I awoke with this morning; I still let out a few bad words that I shouldn't say; and I still sigh and fret over things that I really don't want to do. But despite my broken human nature I have a child like hope and joy for life that no darkness can dispel.
Perhaps today we can all approach Jesus in prayer as a child, opening our hearts and minds up to his presence, experiencing that inner peace and joyful innocence. As for me, well in this very moment, I'm going to do exactly what the song we sang this morning suggested we do - With this Little Light of Mine, I'm going to let it shine; let it shine; let it shine; let it shine!
Today I had the privilege of leading the weekly chapel service at my children's school. It was an awesome experience! St. Andrew's is a wonderful Episcopal Church school located in Richmond, Virginia. The schools original and primary mission is to elementary age children of low income families. St. Andrew's is rich in diversity, and a place in which God's love is truly at work.
Because I had to work late last night, I was tired and didn't feel as prepared as I would have liked this morning. I walked into chapel all worried and stressed out about 'my' message to the children; worried about what 'I' was going to say to them; hoping 'I' would be able to preach a few profound words of faith. As usual my hope was to assist the children in their faith development by planting a few good seeds. Well, what ended up happening was - they assisted me in my faith. Where as I though I was the one with the message to deliver, it turned out to be the other way around. It was the children who had the actual message for me.
While leading the service, I looked into the bright and radiant eyes of innocence, and suddenly witnessed God's profound revelation of hope to this broken world. These young children whose ages range from 5 years old to 10 years old are our future. Their beautiful voices lifted up in song and praise to God, while at the same time the piano rang out with its wonderful melody. It was in this instance that a peaceful sense of clarity overcame my spirit. While we adults continue to struggle with the poor economy and worry over the pressures of life, I was reminded by these little children that love and joy are an innate and important part of our lives. When we approach Jesus as a child, God draws out that beautiful and untainted innocence that exists within each one of us. As his children, no matter what this world thows at us, in Jesus we are made innocent and pure, untouched by the shadows of decay.
Nevertheless, as I sit here at my computer I still have all of the same worries and concerns that I awoke with this morning; I still let out a few bad words that I shouldn't say; and I still sigh and fret over things that I really don't want to do. But despite my broken human nature I have a child like hope and joy for life that no darkness can dispel.
Perhaps today we can all approach Jesus in prayer as a child, opening our hearts and minds up to his presence, experiencing that inner peace and joyful innocence. As for me, well in this very moment, I'm going to do exactly what the song we sang this morning suggested we do - With this Little Light of Mine, I'm going to let it shine; let it shine; let it shine; let it shine!
Friday, December 12, 2008
Holy Rollers...Pass Me Another Amen!
This past Thanksgiving my family and I traveled from our home in Richmond, Virginia to visit and stay with our famlies who live in Augusta, Georgia. We all loaded up - Sallie, Jack, Annabel and even Mandy the dog and headed south. The week was nice despite a few family arguements (usually over the same old silly things!) The only real soar spot of the whole trip (besides the fact that my mother didn't like my sisters new hair color) was that my beloved Georgia Bulldogs got beat in football by our much loathed arch rivals, Georgia Tech.
One of the highlights of my Thanksgiving week in Augusta was a most unexpected opportunity to co-celebrate the Eucharist with one of my dear friends who is an Episcopal priest in the Diocese of Georgia, and lives in Augusta. Joe is a wonderful and fine gentleman. He and his wife Cissy are dear friends and the god-parents of my two little children, Jack and Annabel. Joe is not only a priest but a surgeon and teacher at the Medical College of Georgia. I often tease him by saying that he is the only person I know that can diagonse a medical problem, operate, and if everything goes south (as in death) give his patient last rites!
Now, one might quickly assume that Joe and I were celebrateing the Eucharist at his parish, Holy Comforter, Episcopal Church; but that was not the case. Joe got invited to celebrate the Episcopal Eucharist at the Penticostal Worship Center in a very impoverished area of Augusta. The minister at the church was admrally teaching his non-denominational Penicostal church about the broader church and her diverse liturgical traditions. I was so impressed with their pastor. He genuinely wanted his congregation to experience other Christan faith denominations so that they would not become narrow-minded in their faith.
Well, what a night! I have to tell you that it was much livelier than most traditional Episcopal services. The music was awesome, using a diverse set of intruments such as the keyboard, drums and guitar. Everyone sang from their heart like there was no tomorrow. It was an incredible and moving experience.
There is one tradition that these fine folks have that really stood out that evening - they enthusiastically say Amen anytime they are moved by the Holy Spirit. Man, they were moved by the Holy Spirit! After every sentence in Joe's sermon he was met with a round of Aaaaaamens! They Amened everything in the Book of Common Prayer. They even Amened me when Joe introduced me to the congregation!
We Episcopal priests don't often get many Amens when we preach, teach or celebrate (unless it says to do so in the Book of Common Prayer). Joe told that beautiful congregation that he and I were going to load up on all the Amens we could possibly get, since we rarely receive that kind of spontaneous congregational affirmation.
So my dear sisters and brothers - here's to you - and have a Aaaaamen kind of day! As for me and Joe, we decided that we will take as many Amens as we can possible stand.
One of the highlights of my Thanksgiving week in Augusta was a most unexpected opportunity to co-celebrate the Eucharist with one of my dear friends who is an Episcopal priest in the Diocese of Georgia, and lives in Augusta. Joe is a wonderful and fine gentleman. He and his wife Cissy are dear friends and the god-parents of my two little children, Jack and Annabel. Joe is not only a priest but a surgeon and teacher at the Medical College of Georgia. I often tease him by saying that he is the only person I know that can diagonse a medical problem, operate, and if everything goes south (as in death) give his patient last rites!
Now, one might quickly assume that Joe and I were celebrateing the Eucharist at his parish, Holy Comforter, Episcopal Church; but that was not the case. Joe got invited to celebrate the Episcopal Eucharist at the Penticostal Worship Center in a very impoverished area of Augusta. The minister at the church was admrally teaching his non-denominational Penicostal church about the broader church and her diverse liturgical traditions. I was so impressed with their pastor. He genuinely wanted his congregation to experience other Christan faith denominations so that they would not become narrow-minded in their faith.
Well, what a night! I have to tell you that it was much livelier than most traditional Episcopal services. The music was awesome, using a diverse set of intruments such as the keyboard, drums and guitar. Everyone sang from their heart like there was no tomorrow. It was an incredible and moving experience.
There is one tradition that these fine folks have that really stood out that evening - they enthusiastically say Amen anytime they are moved by the Holy Spirit. Man, they were moved by the Holy Spirit! After every sentence in Joe's sermon he was met with a round of Aaaaaamens! They Amened everything in the Book of Common Prayer. They even Amened me when Joe introduced me to the congregation!
We Episcopal priests don't often get many Amens when we preach, teach or celebrate (unless it says to do so in the Book of Common Prayer). Joe told that beautiful congregation that he and I were going to load up on all the Amens we could possibly get, since we rarely receive that kind of spontaneous congregational affirmation.
So my dear sisters and brothers - here's to you - and have a Aaaaamen kind of day! As for me and Joe, we decided that we will take as many Amens as we can possible stand.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Prayer: Listening for God's voice in Blessed Silence
The Catholic priest, author and theologian, the late Henri Nouwen wrote the following regarding prayer: "The real 'work' of prayer is to become silent and listen to the voice that says good things about me." Silence! How often do we simply sit still enough to allow our hearts and minds to quietly embrace the silence. If you're like me, probably - Never! Why is it that we are so against embracing silence as an effective means for prayer?
Sitting in silence doesn't come easy for many of us. It is uncomfortable, and even a Little unnatural, especially for an off the chart extrovert like me! We are used to a world that is full of constant noise, and relentless audio visual stimulation. To actually take a brief moment out of each day to quietly reflect on God's presence, while remaining still is almost a cardinal sin in a world that grades our accomplishments by how much stuff we can get done in a specific time frame. Believe me, the church is really no different in this regard. We often like to imagine ourselves as a contemplative haven providing a spiritual respite for those who are weary, burdened and in search of a deeper relationship with God. While we do indeed work to make the church a spiritual haven (at least at Emmanuel) the parish is quite a busy place, often abuzz with a flurry of work, and noise (mostly pleasant sounds). Even in our Sunday liturgy we tend to fill every single moment of worship with words, music or some form of announcements.
As rector, I'm as guitly as anyone else when it comes to remaining still and embracing the silence. I often find myself pushing aside those important reflective moments in order to complete the many administrative tasks I encounter daily. Even at this very moment I am reminded of how subtle is the need to fill our life with noise; as I am writing an article on silent prayer I just realized that I am listening to music! (It is church music if I must justify my need for sound).
Silence in prayer is vital if we are to listen to God and hear his voice. I will never forget many years ago while driving down the road in my old beat up Chevy Blazer, just a praying to God about something I considered most important, and certainly deserving of being placed first on God's priority list. Suddenly I stopped talking and simply shut my mouth (I like to pray out loud that way I am assured God hears what I say - Yea, right!). I will never forget that beautiful moment of clarity, an epiphany. In my hearts ear I heard God's voice say, "John, would you please hush for one moment so that I can get a word in this conversation?" Well, what a powerful and profound revelation. You mean if I shut up, quiet my heart and mind and allow God to speak then I just might experience God working in and around me? Simply put - Yes!
One of my seminary professors used to always say, "Silence is the language of God; anything else is a bad translation." Silence is an important and an integral part of our prayer life. I encourage all of us to take 30 minutes out of our day (15 minutes if that is all you can do) and sit silently (with no TV, radio or computer running). As Nouwen goes on to tell us, "We will gradually discover that something is happening which we were not even conscious." How will we know something is happening one might ask? Nouwen goes on to say, "The movement of God's Spirit is very gentle, very soft - and hidden. It does not seek attention. But that movement is also very persistent, strong and deep. It changes hearts radically." Silent prayer is the "faithful discipline that reveals to each one of us that we are truly blessed by God, and that God gives us the power to bless others." Trust me, we will hear and know in our hearts when God speaks to us.
The day I had my profound revelation while driving my truck down some south Georgia road was a true blessing; one that has remained with me for the past 15 years. I hope that you too may find this reminder to quietly listen for God in prayer a blessing. When practiced on a regular basis silent prayer truly does strengthen the spirit, and draws us into a deeper relationship with God.
Sitting in silence doesn't come easy for many of us. It is uncomfortable, and even a Little unnatural, especially for an off the chart extrovert like me! We are used to a world that is full of constant noise, and relentless audio visual stimulation. To actually take a brief moment out of each day to quietly reflect on God's presence, while remaining still is almost a cardinal sin in a world that grades our accomplishments by how much stuff we can get done in a specific time frame. Believe me, the church is really no different in this regard. We often like to imagine ourselves as a contemplative haven providing a spiritual respite for those who are weary, burdened and in search of a deeper relationship with God. While we do indeed work to make the church a spiritual haven (at least at Emmanuel) the parish is quite a busy place, often abuzz with a flurry of work, and noise (mostly pleasant sounds). Even in our Sunday liturgy we tend to fill every single moment of worship with words, music or some form of announcements.
As rector, I'm as guitly as anyone else when it comes to remaining still and embracing the silence. I often find myself pushing aside those important reflective moments in order to complete the many administrative tasks I encounter daily. Even at this very moment I am reminded of how subtle is the need to fill our life with noise; as I am writing an article on silent prayer I just realized that I am listening to music! (It is church music if I must justify my need for sound).
Silence in prayer is vital if we are to listen to God and hear his voice. I will never forget many years ago while driving down the road in my old beat up Chevy Blazer, just a praying to God about something I considered most important, and certainly deserving of being placed first on God's priority list. Suddenly I stopped talking and simply shut my mouth (I like to pray out loud that way I am assured God hears what I say - Yea, right!). I will never forget that beautiful moment of clarity, an epiphany. In my hearts ear I heard God's voice say, "John, would you please hush for one moment so that I can get a word in this conversation?" Well, what a powerful and profound revelation. You mean if I shut up, quiet my heart and mind and allow God to speak then I just might experience God working in and around me? Simply put - Yes!
One of my seminary professors used to always say, "Silence is the language of God; anything else is a bad translation." Silence is an important and an integral part of our prayer life. I encourage all of us to take 30 minutes out of our day (15 minutes if that is all you can do) and sit silently (with no TV, radio or computer running). As Nouwen goes on to tell us, "We will gradually discover that something is happening which we were not even conscious." How will we know something is happening one might ask? Nouwen goes on to say, "The movement of God's Spirit is very gentle, very soft - and hidden. It does not seek attention. But that movement is also very persistent, strong and deep. It changes hearts radically." Silent prayer is the "faithful discipline that reveals to each one of us that we are truly blessed by God, and that God gives us the power to bless others." Trust me, we will hear and know in our hearts when God speaks to us.
The day I had my profound revelation while driving my truck down some south Georgia road was a true blessing; one that has remained with me for the past 15 years. I hope that you too may find this reminder to quietly listen for God in prayer a blessing. When practiced on a regular basis silent prayer truly does strengthen the spirit, and draws us into a deeper relationship with God.
Monday, December 8, 2008
When We Say Yes To God
As we rapidly approach the birth of Christ, I can't help but think about Mary and her unselfish willingness to accept and bear God's child. Mary said to the angel Gabriel, "Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be according to your word." In that one moment she risked everything in her life that she considered significant, or of value.
Let's take one moment and think about the burden Mary took on when she said 'yes' to God. She risked losing and humiliating Joseph; she risked being cast out of her community for infidelity; she risked disgracing herself and family; she risked her dignity, honor and integrity; all because she responded to God by saying, "Yes, let it be with me according to your will."
Are we willing to take such risks in our lives in the name of Christ? Are we willing to put God first and trust God's divine will and actions? Or do we timidly hide behind the cloak of fear and doubt, afraid to risk failure and the cruel ridicule of others? These are not easy questions to answer, especially if we take a sincere look deep inside ourselves. Doubt seems to always lurk in the dark recesses of our hearts. There is often a cloud of anxiety that shrouds our spirits when we are called by God to step outside of our comfort zones.
Maybe we find ourselves called to work with the poor, the homeless and destitute - people that we may not normally associate with in our daily existence. Perhaps our relationship with Christ is one that becomes evangelical, inviting people to church who may come from a different social-economic or racial background. When we say 'yes' to God we may risk losing friends who feel threatened by that relationship. Maybe we get shunned by family members who don't understand or approve of our relationship with God. Perhaps we are called to mission and have to leave behind our life as we know it, and make the required sacrifices it takes to serve Jesus Christ. Maybe the 'yes' is something as simple as daily prayer, or going to Alcoholics Anonymous in order to overcome harmful behavior. A 'yes' to God always involves the revelation that we must learn to be more giving and less selfish. Saying 'yes' to God as Mary discovered is a revolutionary act. That one word ( a simple 'yes')has a life altering and transforming affect on lives and spirits. Why? Because once we respond to God by saying 'yes' to God's will for us, it is difficult to go back to the life we led before. It is similar to a person who works hard to become sober through AA, and then decides to begin drinking alcohol again - "A belly full of AA really messes up your drinking" it is never the same after that encounter. The same is true with God. Once we experience a heart full of God it messes up our justification to live a life without God. Our lives have experienced a 'revolutionary' message of love and acceptance that transcends this world and its emphasis on instant gratification.
As I travel this long spiritual journey of faith, I have found that my relationship with Christ becomes more and more important each day. This ongoing and ever maturing relationship allows me to more easily and willingly surrender my life to Christ. After all if we don't surrender our will and life to God, how can God initiate conversation and build a relationship with us? What I find through this sweet surrender is nothing less than total victory in life. You see, the more I become willing to step out in faith, taking the necessary risks, the less I worry about myself and the judgment of others.
Mary gives us such a beautiful example of what it means to say 'yes' to God. We know that we have grown in a deeper more fulfilling relationship with Christ when self-denial supersedes self-preservation. The journey begins with the words of radical revolution and revelation: "Yes God, let it be with me according to your will."
Let's take one moment and think about the burden Mary took on when she said 'yes' to God. She risked losing and humiliating Joseph; she risked being cast out of her community for infidelity; she risked disgracing herself and family; she risked her dignity, honor and integrity; all because she responded to God by saying, "Yes, let it be with me according to your will."
Are we willing to take such risks in our lives in the name of Christ? Are we willing to put God first and trust God's divine will and actions? Or do we timidly hide behind the cloak of fear and doubt, afraid to risk failure and the cruel ridicule of others? These are not easy questions to answer, especially if we take a sincere look deep inside ourselves. Doubt seems to always lurk in the dark recesses of our hearts. There is often a cloud of anxiety that shrouds our spirits when we are called by God to step outside of our comfort zones.
Maybe we find ourselves called to work with the poor, the homeless and destitute - people that we may not normally associate with in our daily existence. Perhaps our relationship with Christ is one that becomes evangelical, inviting people to church who may come from a different social-economic or racial background. When we say 'yes' to God we may risk losing friends who feel threatened by that relationship. Maybe we get shunned by family members who don't understand or approve of our relationship with God. Perhaps we are called to mission and have to leave behind our life as we know it, and make the required sacrifices it takes to serve Jesus Christ. Maybe the 'yes' is something as simple as daily prayer, or going to Alcoholics Anonymous in order to overcome harmful behavior. A 'yes' to God always involves the revelation that we must learn to be more giving and less selfish. Saying 'yes' to God as Mary discovered is a revolutionary act. That one word ( a simple 'yes')has a life altering and transforming affect on lives and spirits. Why? Because once we respond to God by saying 'yes' to God's will for us, it is difficult to go back to the life we led before. It is similar to a person who works hard to become sober through AA, and then decides to begin drinking alcohol again - "A belly full of AA really messes up your drinking" it is never the same after that encounter. The same is true with God. Once we experience a heart full of God it messes up our justification to live a life without God. Our lives have experienced a 'revolutionary' message of love and acceptance that transcends this world and its emphasis on instant gratification.
As I travel this long spiritual journey of faith, I have found that my relationship with Christ becomes more and more important each day. This ongoing and ever maturing relationship allows me to more easily and willingly surrender my life to Christ. After all if we don't surrender our will and life to God, how can God initiate conversation and build a relationship with us? What I find through this sweet surrender is nothing less than total victory in life. You see, the more I become willing to step out in faith, taking the necessary risks, the less I worry about myself and the judgment of others.
Mary gives us such a beautiful example of what it means to say 'yes' to God. We know that we have grown in a deeper more fulfilling relationship with Christ when self-denial supersedes self-preservation. The journey begins with the words of radical revolution and revelation: "Yes God, let it be with me according to your will."
Saturday, December 6, 2008
Hope in the Desert
"Trust in the Lord with all of your heart
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6
"If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast."
Psalm 139:9-10
The desert is where we lose ourselves, only to rediscover ourselves. The desert is a frightening place; a place full of danger; mid-day heat; night-time coldness. The desert calls out to us in its barren beauty, while at the same time intimidates us with the loudness of its silence. Massive rocks jut up out of the sandy floor; rocks that are embroidered with cadnium reds, rich grays, and Sapphire wrinkles. These desert rocks have witnessed the history of ages past. These are the same rocks that listened to the Children of Israel cry out against God. They are the same rocks that yielded water to Moses at Merribah. They are the same rocks, stacked as ancient Bedouin toombs long before Father Abraham walked the earth.
The desert is the place where the Ru ah (the breath of God) stirs the timeless space of creation. This is the place where the Shroud of God settled on the mighty crag of Horeb, and his glorious voice thundered down upon the Israelites.
The desert is a place in which we come face to face with those wicked demons that seek to disrupt and bring pain and sorrow to our lives. Yet, the desert is where we learn to face these elusive devils and discover the peace which comes from listening to the still, quiet voice of God.
Listen for that voice! It rides upon the arid winds of the desert. God's voice is found in the often uncomfortable hot and stagnant air, or on the blustery sand storms that arise out of nowhere. God's word is light and unencumbered, while at the same time heart changing and transformative. In the desert times of life God's voice calls out to us and meets us in the solitude and stillness. Be still then, and know God. He will guide us down whatever paths we travel, making them straight, while holding us fast.
and lean not on your own understanding;
in all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make your paths straight."
Proverbs 3:5-6
"If I rise on the wings of the dawn,
if I settle on far side of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me,
your right hand will hold me fast."
Psalm 139:9-10
The desert is where we lose ourselves, only to rediscover ourselves. The desert is a frightening place; a place full of danger; mid-day heat; night-time coldness. The desert calls out to us in its barren beauty, while at the same time intimidates us with the loudness of its silence. Massive rocks jut up out of the sandy floor; rocks that are embroidered with cadnium reds, rich grays, and Sapphire wrinkles. These desert rocks have witnessed the history of ages past. These are the same rocks that listened to the Children of Israel cry out against God. They are the same rocks that yielded water to Moses at Merribah. They are the same rocks, stacked as ancient Bedouin toombs long before Father Abraham walked the earth.
The desert is the place where the Ru ah (the breath of God) stirs the timeless space of creation. This is the place where the Shroud of God settled on the mighty crag of Horeb, and his glorious voice thundered down upon the Israelites.
The desert is a place in which we come face to face with those wicked demons that seek to disrupt and bring pain and sorrow to our lives. Yet, the desert is where we learn to face these elusive devils and discover the peace which comes from listening to the still, quiet voice of God.
Listen for that voice! It rides upon the arid winds of the desert. God's voice is found in the often uncomfortable hot and stagnant air, or on the blustery sand storms that arise out of nowhere. God's word is light and unencumbered, while at the same time heart changing and transformative. In the desert times of life God's voice calls out to us and meets us in the solitude and stillness. Be still then, and know God. He will guide us down whatever paths we travel, making them straight, while holding us fast.
Thursday, December 4, 2008
Zimbabwe, A Living Hell
This morning I received an e-mail from a dear friend of mine who lives in Atlanta, GA. She is originally from South Africa and knows all too well the uphill challenges that many of the African nations face. The e-mail she forwarded to me was not only eye opening, it was most distressing and gut wrenching as well.
As if draught and famine are not terrible enough, the government of Zimbabwe under the brutal and ruthless control of President Mugabe have brought utter decimation, and intense persecution to a large portion of the Zimbabwean population. The president, along with his close circle of cronies has blatantly ignored the nation's Constitution which was adopted in 1980. A promising country on the continent of Africa, Zimbabwe was once a place where personal freedoms, human rights and democracy thrived and were deeply valued. Today, through selfish greed and personal agenda's Mugabe and his allies are systematically destroying all the opposition to their oppressive regime. The reports of violence against humanity is staggering and woeful. Mugabe and his derelict thugs are apparently willing to use any and all means possible to secure the government, and Zimbabwe's national resources. Awful stories of torture, murder and displacement of the nations inhabitants are slowly leaking out of the country. Naturally the current government views this as a huge threat to its selfish motives, and is doing all it can to stop the hemorrhaging of information. Zimbabwe is now a human rights nightmare, in which literally all hell is breaking loose.
The various militias are rounding up those who oppose Mugabe and his tyrannical rule, and sending them to torture camps, where there is severe and hopeless suffering. Many of the inhabitants have been forced from their property by this greedy and sinister government. Displaced people are now forced to sleep in the streets, starving to death in disease ridden slums, and have no water to drink. Many people have fled the country and are now living the life of refugies. To the distress of many of us, this human suffering includes many little children. Amnesty International is telling us that the government of Zimbabwe is one step away from out right genocide.
Please keep the people of Zimbabwe in your prayers. Many people are suffering under the most horrific and terrible conditions. The main opposition to Mugabe and his government is the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC).
I encourage anyone concerned to contact the Rev. Mike Kinman who leads Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation at http://www.e4gr.org/. Other organizations to contact are the Nation Episcopal Church - http://www.ecusa.anglican.org/, or your congress representative.
As if draught and famine are not terrible enough, the government of Zimbabwe under the brutal and ruthless control of President Mugabe have brought utter decimation, and intense persecution to a large portion of the Zimbabwean population. The president, along with his close circle of cronies has blatantly ignored the nation's Constitution which was adopted in 1980. A promising country on the continent of Africa, Zimbabwe was once a place where personal freedoms, human rights and democracy thrived and were deeply valued. Today, through selfish greed and personal agenda's Mugabe and his allies are systematically destroying all the opposition to their oppressive regime. The reports of violence against humanity is staggering and woeful. Mugabe and his derelict thugs are apparently willing to use any and all means possible to secure the government, and Zimbabwe's national resources. Awful stories of torture, murder and displacement of the nations inhabitants are slowly leaking out of the country. Naturally the current government views this as a huge threat to its selfish motives, and is doing all it can to stop the hemorrhaging of information. Zimbabwe is now a human rights nightmare, in which literally all hell is breaking loose.
The various militias are rounding up those who oppose Mugabe and his tyrannical rule, and sending them to torture camps, where there is severe and hopeless suffering. Many of the inhabitants have been forced from their property by this greedy and sinister government. Displaced people are now forced to sleep in the streets, starving to death in disease ridden slums, and have no water to drink. Many people have fled the country and are now living the life of refugies. To the distress of many of us, this human suffering includes many little children. Amnesty International is telling us that the government of Zimbabwe is one step away from out right genocide.
Please keep the people of Zimbabwe in your prayers. Many people are suffering under the most horrific and terrible conditions. The main opposition to Mugabe and his government is the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC).
I encourage anyone concerned to contact the Rev. Mike Kinman who leads Episcopalians for Global Reconciliation at http://www.e4gr.org/. Other organizations to contact are the Nation Episcopal Church - http://www.ecusa.anglican.org/, or your congress representative.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Watch, Remain Awake, For You Know Not When the Hour Will Come
My family and I returned to Richmond, VA yesterday (Monday) in hopes of avoiding the heavy Sunday traffic that always occurs with people returning home after Thanksgiving. We made wonderful time; that is until we crossed over the state line into Virginia. Apparently there was a terrible car accident that claimed the life of at least one person. A tractor-trailer truck had wrecked and caught fire shutting down both the north and south lanes of I-95.
As one can imagine, sitting in traffic gave me much time to reflect on all kinds of things going on in my personal life, as well as the world around me. As I sat there moving at a snails pace, I couldn't help but think about this past Sunday's reading from the Gospel of Mark. Jesus said, "Watch, be alert, remain awake, for you know not when the hour will come." That truck driver and anyone else invloved in that accident had no idea what literally lay instore around the next bend; none of us do in this life. Therefore watch, be alert; live life in faithful service to Christ each and every moment. Give unto others, love unconditionally and be quick to forgive. While we often can't control our surroundings and what others do with their lives, Jesus is telling us that spiritual preperation will allow our hearts and souls to be ready for the most unexpected hardships and challenges of life.
I encourage each one of us to use this season of Advent to deepen our spiritual lives and cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ and those we love; "for we know not when the hour will come."
As one can imagine, sitting in traffic gave me much time to reflect on all kinds of things going on in my personal life, as well as the world around me. As I sat there moving at a snails pace, I couldn't help but think about this past Sunday's reading from the Gospel of Mark. Jesus said, "Watch, be alert, remain awake, for you know not when the hour will come." That truck driver and anyone else invloved in that accident had no idea what literally lay instore around the next bend; none of us do in this life. Therefore watch, be alert; live life in faithful service to Christ each and every moment. Give unto others, love unconditionally and be quick to forgive. While we often can't control our surroundings and what others do with their lives, Jesus is telling us that spiritual preperation will allow our hearts and souls to be ready for the most unexpected hardships and challenges of life.
I encourage each one of us to use this season of Advent to deepen our spiritual lives and cultivate a deeper relationship with Christ and those we love; "for we know not when the hour will come."
Friday, November 28, 2008
Thanksgiving Day Peachtree Rd Turkey Bowl Shootout
Thanksgiving is a day of gratitude, eating, and the gathering of family and dear friends. It is a time we come together in love (along with all of the family dysfunction) to visit and reconnect with one another. My mother’s house, fondly known and called by my children as “Grammy’s” is no different. We have plenty of delicious food around the table, yet over the years the number of hungry little mouths has substantially increased. With the added number of grandchildren and friends there has emerged over the years yet another West tradition; laying the good food aside, the West family Thanksgiving transforms into the site of the annual Peachtree Road Turkey Bowl Shootout. Yes, football takes over! Bodies of all shapes and sizes fly around the front yard. There is much love, fun, laughter and of course, arguing with each other. It is a time of family fellowship, bragging rights (at least for the next year) and an opportunity to work off at least a little of the Thanksgiving feast.
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
World Hunger and U.S. Aid
Following is a teaser for a feature to run on Religion & Ethics Newsweekly this weekend. You can find airtimes at:
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/
According to a new report from the Christian anti-hunger group, Bread for the World Institute, the number of people living in extreme poverty has increased by 100 million in less than two years, while the number of hungry people has grown by more than 75 million. The report said the world is facing a hunger challenge unlike anything seen in the past 50 years, and called on Congress and the new Administration to revamp U.S. foreign assistance in order to more effectively reduce global poverty and hunger.
Kim Lawton is joined by Reverend David Beckmann, president of Bread for the World Institute, for a studio discussion focusing on the global food crisis and what reforms the U.S. needs to make to provide adequate help to developing countries. "We did a poll of voters on Election Day and 70 percent of American voters said they would like our government to spend more money to deal with the global hunger crisis. I think people know it’s the right thing to do," Rev. Beckmann observes. "I think we also know it’s not smart to neglect misery in far-off places. And we’ve seen how the whole global economy is interconnected. So it’s good for our economy to pay attention to the global dimensions of development." (New) --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~
This message is sent out courtesy of the Google Groups "E4GR" group.
To post to this group, send email to E4GR@googlegroups.com http://groups.google.com/group/E4GR?hl=en
Visit the EGR website for all your MDG needs -- http://www.e4gr.org/
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/
According to a new report from the Christian anti-hunger group, Bread for the World Institute, the number of people living in extreme poverty has increased by 100 million in less than two years, while the number of hungry people has grown by more than 75 million. The report said the world is facing a hunger challenge unlike anything seen in the past 50 years, and called on Congress and the new Administration to revamp U.S. foreign assistance in order to more effectively reduce global poverty and hunger.
Kim Lawton is joined by Reverend David Beckmann, president of Bread for the World Institute, for a studio discussion focusing on the global food crisis and what reforms the U.S. needs to make to provide adequate help to developing countries. "We did a poll of voters on Election Day and 70 percent of American voters said they would like our government to spend more money to deal with the global hunger crisis. I think people know it’s the right thing to do," Rev. Beckmann observes. "I think we also know it’s not smart to neglect misery in far-off places. And we’ve seen how the whole global economy is interconnected. So it’s good for our economy to pay attention to the global dimensions of development." (New) --~--~---------~--~----~------------~-------~--~----~
This message is sent out courtesy of the Google Groups "E4GR" group.
To post to this group, send email to E4GR@googlegroups.com http://groups.google.com/group/E4GR?hl=en
Visit the EGR website for all your MDG needs -- http://www.e4gr.org/
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
The Beauty of the Liturgical Season of Advent
The liturgical season of Advent is my absolute favorite time of year. It brings back wonderful memories of growing up in my home parish, Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, Augusta, Georgia. I loved that youthful time of innocent wonder and anticipation (probably more of Santa than the birth Jesus in those days). However, there was still a mystery that surrounded those often cold and bluish, purple days of Advent. A mystical cloud of anticipation hung over the church and the old brick parish hall.
The influence of the church with its beautiful Advent music, Advent wreath along with the chill in the air had a profound impact on my early spiritual formation. Even today I still sing from my heart all the rich Advent hymns and Anthems that we learned in Good Shepherd's Junior/Children's Choir. "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," along with the Charles Wesley hymn, "Lo He Comes with Clouds Descending" are both ever present tunes, readily perched on my lips.
As a visual artist I am drawn to the rich darkness and highlights of piercing light that is associated with Advent. There is also a feel and presence in the church that is different from any other time of the year. Advent is a season in which fear and joy collide giving birth to peace; might and humility melt into one another; light and darkness bind together and form an incredible holiness. In other words, "The Lion and the Lamb (opposites) lay down beside one another," and there is a quiet and transorming peacful hush that falls across the landscape of God's creation.
I wish each of you a most happy and blessed Advent Season, and hope that you too may find its mystery attractive and meaningful.
The influence of the church with its beautiful Advent music, Advent wreath along with the chill in the air had a profound impact on my early spiritual formation. Even today I still sing from my heart all the rich Advent hymns and Anthems that we learned in Good Shepherd's Junior/Children's Choir. "O Come, O Come Emmanuel," along with the Charles Wesley hymn, "Lo He Comes with Clouds Descending" are both ever present tunes, readily perched on my lips.
As a visual artist I am drawn to the rich darkness and highlights of piercing light that is associated with Advent. There is also a feel and presence in the church that is different from any other time of the year. Advent is a season in which fear and joy collide giving birth to peace; might and humility melt into one another; light and darkness bind together and form an incredible holiness. In other words, "The Lion and the Lamb (opposites) lay down beside one another," and there is a quiet and transorming peacful hush that falls across the landscape of God's creation.
I wish each of you a most happy and blessed Advent Season, and hope that you too may find its mystery attractive and meaningful.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
A Christ Filled Response to the Global Ecconomic Crisis
In times of crisis very real and tangible fears tend to rise to the surface creating harmful anxiety, stress and worry. Often the unfortunate bi-product of that fear causes us to either withdraw into ourselves, or to lash out at others or iconic institutions. Yet I ask the question, is this difficult economic crisis an opportunity for the church to shine and provide spiritual strength and fortitude for her members, as well as those in search of spiritual substance? My answer to that question is – “Yes, absolutely Yes!” When we read the Bible many times we see the suffering of God’s people. Yet we always see God’s redeeming love and renewal that comes out of the turmoil. As faithful Christians God’s Word leads the way for us in our daily lives, reminding us that God is ever present and hears our cries; God feels our pain; God endures our suffering and fears. God will see us through this desert journey.
The economic distress of our day, while most unpleasant and troubling, presents all faithful Christians with an opportunity to rise up and meet the ever growing dimness of fear and doubt with a renewed faith, a determined zeal and unbending hope. As a priest and servant of Christ, I wish to assist us in navigating these difficult and tumultuous waters, so that we might remain the ever steady and non-anxious presence that brings peace of mind, stability of heart and gentleness of spirit to the rest of the Church and our community. I realize in some ways that this is a monumental task and one that requires deep and genuine spiritual centeredness. But please hear me when I say, “It is not an impossible task.” In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul wrote
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus….. I (WE) can do all things through him (Christ Jesus) who strengthens me (US).”
We are children of God and created in his image. As Christians we are blessed and equipped for ministry to the world as well as in our own backyard. Since we proclaim Christ as Lord and Savior, this global financial crisis presents us with the chance to claim our place in that life. I understand in this difficult time that we are genuinely afraid; I know we feel insecure, real worry, stress and doubt; and I understand the anxiety sparked by the dark cloud of the unknown. Not many of us freely choose to walk in darkness, but the liturgical season of Advent is an ever present reminder that while the darkness is a natural part of our lives; the light of God will always shine through. In that same terrifying darkness we often unexpectedly stumble onto what we discover is Holy Ground. Through the ages suffering has brought us into the very real presence of God. Therefore I encourage each one of us to steady ourselves in faith and the knowledge of God in Jesus Christ, so that we can set the spiritual example for the rest of the Church and the world. It is more important now than ever that we work together through this difficult and frightening time as a community of faith, bound by our common love in Jesus Christ. As an old friend of mine used to say, “This too shall pass. But in the meantime, (well) its just that – a mean time.” I encourage us to shine like a ligh on a hill and try to set aside (as best that we can) our own fears and doubts, and live our lives as a wholesome example in Christ; setting the spiritual standard and groundedness for others.
In everything we face in this increasingly unstable world it is important to remember that Christ is with us. When we suffer, Christ suffers with us. God is interjecting himself into the very heart of the pain, and working to redeem and reconcile us (and all things) to him. This is the Church’s time to shine through the darkness and become a proactive part of God’s larger plan. And while we may not fully know or understand that plan, we are certain of this: God is with us (Emmanuel) and will never leave us.
Our very wise fore fathers and founders of this country stated, “United we stand, divided we fall.” That statement is a reminder to those who live by faith that we must stand together through thick and thin, united in our diversity by the laying aside of our differences and the casting off of our fear. The burden of the darkness may now weigh heavy upon our shoulders, but the light of hope will cut through that darkness like a sharp razor, revealing God’s ever present self and eternal grace.
Hang in there! Do not give up hope. God has brought us this far and he will not leave us. We are blessed with a strong, faithful and committed church that has the spiritual fortitude and faith to guide and lead us through these murky waters of despair. So let go of whatever it is that holds us back, and let God take over. Together we will make it through this most difficult and uncertain time. That is not a speculation; it is God’s true nature a very real promise.
The economic distress of our day, while most unpleasant and troubling, presents all faithful Christians with an opportunity to rise up and meet the ever growing dimness of fear and doubt with a renewed faith, a determined zeal and unbending hope. As a priest and servant of Christ, I wish to assist us in navigating these difficult and tumultuous waters, so that we might remain the ever steady and non-anxious presence that brings peace of mind, stability of heart and gentleness of spirit to the rest of the Church and our community. I realize in some ways that this is a monumental task and one that requires deep and genuine spiritual centeredness. But please hear me when I say, “It is not an impossible task.” In his letter to the Philippians, the Apostle Paul wrote
“Rejoice in the Lord always; again I say Rejoice. Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus….. I (WE) can do all things through him (Christ Jesus) who strengthens me (US).”
We are children of God and created in his image. As Christians we are blessed and equipped for ministry to the world as well as in our own backyard. Since we proclaim Christ as Lord and Savior, this global financial crisis presents us with the chance to claim our place in that life. I understand in this difficult time that we are genuinely afraid; I know we feel insecure, real worry, stress and doubt; and I understand the anxiety sparked by the dark cloud of the unknown. Not many of us freely choose to walk in darkness, but the liturgical season of Advent is an ever present reminder that while the darkness is a natural part of our lives; the light of God will always shine through. In that same terrifying darkness we often unexpectedly stumble onto what we discover is Holy Ground. Through the ages suffering has brought us into the very real presence of God. Therefore I encourage each one of us to steady ourselves in faith and the knowledge of God in Jesus Christ, so that we can set the spiritual example for the rest of the Church and the world. It is more important now than ever that we work together through this difficult and frightening time as a community of faith, bound by our common love in Jesus Christ. As an old friend of mine used to say, “This too shall pass. But in the meantime, (well) its just that – a mean time.” I encourage us to shine like a ligh on a hill and try to set aside (as best that we can) our own fears and doubts, and live our lives as a wholesome example in Christ; setting the spiritual standard and groundedness for others.
In everything we face in this increasingly unstable world it is important to remember that Christ is with us. When we suffer, Christ suffers with us. God is interjecting himself into the very heart of the pain, and working to redeem and reconcile us (and all things) to him. This is the Church’s time to shine through the darkness and become a proactive part of God’s larger plan. And while we may not fully know or understand that plan, we are certain of this: God is with us (Emmanuel) and will never leave us.
Our very wise fore fathers and founders of this country stated, “United we stand, divided we fall.” That statement is a reminder to those who live by faith that we must stand together through thick and thin, united in our diversity by the laying aside of our differences and the casting off of our fear. The burden of the darkness may now weigh heavy upon our shoulders, but the light of hope will cut through that darkness like a sharp razor, revealing God’s ever present self and eternal grace.
Hang in there! Do not give up hope. God has brought us this far and he will not leave us. We are blessed with a strong, faithful and committed church that has the spiritual fortitude and faith to guide and lead us through these murky waters of despair. So let go of whatever it is that holds us back, and let God take over. Together we will make it through this most difficult and uncertain time. That is not a speculation; it is God’s true nature a very real promise.
Friday, November 21, 2008
On the Road in Tanzania
The road (if one can call it that) was one of the worst I have ever ridden. The ruts and holes were enough to shake and rattle any vehicle to pieces. Because of the lack of rain and extremely dry conditions, the dust from the dirt road created an impenetrable screen that at times severely impaired our ability to see beyond a few feet in front of us. As we sped along, the car of my good friend and colleague Fr. Yohana Mazaguni sounded as if it would fall apart right there on the road. Interestingly, a little later in the day while standing outside of St. John’s Bible College in the Anglican Diocese of Shinyanga, Tanzania, East Africa, Bishop Charles Ngusa told our small group of Virginia ambassadors (and one Californian) because of the poor road conditions, each Saturday he had a standing appointment with his auto mechanic to get all of the lose screws tightened on his vehicle. What an adventure; just a few days earlier I discovered not only were some of the paved roads as bad as the dirt ones, but saw with my own two eyes the only traffic light in the entire northeastern portion of Tanzania. It was located in the city of Arusha and was apparently not only a novelty for the local inhabitants, but a mystery as well.
The trip to Arusha was an adventure all of its own. The twelve hour bus ride that began at 6am on my first morning in the country was an experience that I shall not soon forget. Many of us are probably familiar with the saying, “He/She went around their elbow to get to their thumb,” (actually there is another more familiar translation of this saying, but believe I’ll pass on that version). We left Dodoma, the capital city of Tanzania on the most patched together and crowed bus that I had been on since peak class time at the University of Georgia. Our destination was to travel north east to the city of Arusha, but not in a conventional or direct way. We actually drove south on one of the few paved roads in the country in order to go north. Ironically it was the same road that we flew over in a charter Missionary Flight Association plane from Dar es Salam to Dodoma in which I prophetically stated out loud to the other passengers – “Boy, I sure am glad we don’t have to drive down that road to get to Dodoma!” God certainly has a sense of humor.
If this sounds strange, believe me, it gets even more bazaar. Realizing in my extreme jet lagged brain that I was not only the sole American aboard the bus, but probably the only blond haired, blued eyed, Caucasian person for miles and miles as well, my sleep deprived system hit an all new high on the anxiety charts. Naturally I didn’t speak Swahili, so I had to rely on Fr. Yohana to tell me what the conversations were about that surrounded me. Apparently, I was a true anomaly in the eyes of the locals. According to Yohana the people on the bus were amazed to see a white American riding the public bus (I was proudly wearing my Georgia Bulldogs baseball cap). Apparently most foreigners rent cars, charter a plane or ride in cabs to their destinations. Naturally at first I had no clue what they were saying; only catching the word “Americana” every so often.
The trip was long, tiring and gave me a true sense of the difficulty the average person faces when it comes to travel in Tanzania. Between the road blocks every ten miles, the bribes given to the policemen at every stop, the crowded bus and beer guzzling passengers (there was a real party beginning to ensue) I witnessed and experienced Tanzania just as the average African does each day. Trust me, it is a challenging lifestyle that tested me to my limit, yet amazingly my African friends smiled, relaxed and took everything in stride.
Tanzania is beyond doubt a third world country in every sense of the word. Things such as electricity, water (yes I did say water) medicine, automobiles and fuel; basic necessities that we often take for granted are actually luxury items for much of the country’s inhabitants. Did I mention water? People in the outlying villages can spend up to 90% of their daylight hours searching for food and water; mainly water. Sadly these same people are often forced to drink from the same well (more like a ditch) that the livestock bath and drink. In some areas the living conditions are so deplorable that disease is a real concern and personal hygiene is simply nonexistent. Electricity is sketchy at best. Many homes do not have service due to either their rural location, or because they simply can’t afford to pay for the service. We drove past one particular village that had no electricity despite the fact that it was located right next to a huge power line grid.
To state the obvious, the infrastructure in Tanzania is weak, corrupt and poorly organized. There is no middle class, therefore leaving the country with a huge financial and social gap between those “That have” and “Those who don’t have.” Many of the top government officials are dishonest and driven by selfish greed; that or they simply don’t care about the basic needs of the average population.
Perhaps worst of all is the poor medical treatment and lack of basic medicines. Doctors and hospitals are few in number or simply nonexistent in many areas of the country. Buck Blanchard (The Missioner for Global Mission for the Diocese of Virginia) and I experienced firsthand the average person’s dire need for adequate and basic medical care. The very afternoon we returned to the city of Shinyanga from St. John’s Bible College, our car was waved down in a small village by an adolescent boy who charged into the street in front of Fr. Yohana’s car. He was desperately signaling for us to stop. To the unknowing observer such as me, this young man appeared to be just another person seeking to either sell something, or ask for money. This was far from his purpose on that October afternoon. Fr. Yohana stopped the car, got out and spoke to the young man. He then disappeared into a red mud brick hut. Yohana soon emerged with a very young girl holding her injured infant son. The baby had somehow fallen, hit his head and was bleeding badly from his injury. We quickly learned that over the past two hours the family had desperately tried to stop the ugly gash from bleeding, but were unsuccessful. The baby’s little head was wrapped in a blood soaked cloth as he quietly stared into space through his big dark eyes. Sadly this kind of tragedy is something that the average folks in Tanzania live with everyday.
We soon arrived at the hospital in the city of Shinyanga, and our fear for the child went from bad to worse. The hospital conditions were absolutely deplorable. Sanitation was apparently not a concern, and the rooms smelled of urine. The hospital ward was full of patients of all ages. Men, women and children alike were all stretched out on gurneys with only a few nurses tending to their desperate needs.
I wish I could say that the child was fine and everything turned out well, but the fact is I don’t know. He and his mother certainly remain in my prayers. What I am certain is that Tanzania is an impoverished third world country whose people need our help and support. While our dollars certainly make a difference, they are only part of the solution. The church leadership and congregations desperately long to be in actual community with us. They wish very much for us to visit them and build lifelong relationships. They want us to share our faith, ideas and talents with them, so that they might do the same with us.
The people of the Anglican Church of Tanzania are strong in their love of Christ, and determined to persevere in their faith. Despite their abject poverty they are a joyful people, who greeted us with genuine hospitality and sincere smiles. It is my hope that with the Diocese of Virginia, Emmanuel will continue to build on our wonderful relationship with the Anglican Church of Tanzania, especially the Diocese of Shinyanga. While the Episcopal Church, USA has much to offer our brothers and sisters in Christ in sub-Saharan Africa, believe me, the love and grace we receive in return far exceeds anything we could have imagined or realized.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
The Mystery of God in Liturgy and Worship
Many folks don't like the use of incense during corporate worship, yet it is such a powerful reminder of the mystery of God. The smoke rising to the ceiling of the church represents our prayers rising to meet God in heaven. The smell of the incense permeates the walls and the tapestries providing another avenue to experience the presence of God.
I love the use of incense during the Holy Eucharist. For me the smoke surrounding the altar reminds me of God's Holy presence on Mount Sinai, and the thick dark cloud that covered his mysterious presence, hiding his face from the Children of Israel.
The Sanctus Bell being rung at the peak moments in the Eucharistic Prayer is another wonderful reminder that Christ is present in the breaking of the bread and consecration of the wine. Our auditory senses are touched; our olfactory senses are touched; our very being is touched through the rhythm and motion of the liturgy.
As an Episcopal priest, it is my sincere belief that we need to revive holy mystery in our liturgy and worship. We are a sacramental people made to experience God's presence through all of our senses. Christ is incarnational and part of all things created by God. There is a certain reverence in this mystery of faith that grounds us as Christians and generates a very real perception of awe as we consider God's vast and Omnipotent presence.
I invite your thoughts and prayers to this maiden voyage of my Blog. In the days and weeks to come I hope to use this site as a platform for prayer, theological reflection, spiritual devotion and ecclesiastical discussion.
I love the use of incense during the Holy Eucharist. For me the smoke surrounding the altar reminds me of God's Holy presence on Mount Sinai, and the thick dark cloud that covered his mysterious presence, hiding his face from the Children of Israel.
The Sanctus Bell being rung at the peak moments in the Eucharistic Prayer is another wonderful reminder that Christ is present in the breaking of the bread and consecration of the wine. Our auditory senses are touched; our olfactory senses are touched; our very being is touched through the rhythm and motion of the liturgy.
As an Episcopal priest, it is my sincere belief that we need to revive holy mystery in our liturgy and worship. We are a sacramental people made to experience God's presence through all of our senses. Christ is incarnational and part of all things created by God. There is a certain reverence in this mystery of faith that grounds us as Christians and generates a very real perception of awe as we consider God's vast and Omnipotent presence.
I invite your thoughts and prayers to this maiden voyage of my Blog. In the days and weeks to come I hope to use this site as a platform for prayer, theological reflection, spiritual devotion and ecclesiastical discussion.
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Trinity Wall Street Conference Center Chapel
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Church of the Good Shepherd, Augusta, Ga.
"...And the sun shall not strike you by day, nor the moon by night."
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