That title needs a little explanation!
One of the great treats of my position is that I can be other people's angel. It happened again this past week. There was a person in the congregation who notices another person going through a difficult time in life with expenses. He just sensed that money was incredibly tight for this individual, especially with young children and the added pressure of Christmas.
He made a (generous) donation for me to hand deliver to this person. When I went to the modest apartment to bring the gift, she was utterly taken aback and so filled with gratitude and relief. Life had changed unexpectedly and quickly for her, through no fault of her own. Family was far away and she struggled very much alone. With this gift, not only were the immediate needs of the household greatly helped but more importantly, she knew that she wasn't alone.
I told her that she had an angel in the congregation and I am sworn to my grave not to reveal the name. She will never know who it is as she searches the eyes and hearts of those she sees on Sundays. That has to change your view of others, don't you think?
I tell you this because we all know people who struggle, often times privately and alone. You want to help, but you don't know how. You feel embarrassed to give that person money, knowing that it will change the relationship. And you don't want that.
So let me be your angel. I'll make the delivery. And I will take our secret to my grave.
She will have a Merry Christmas. . .and so will the angel!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
Shopping for 150
This Friday, the middle and high school youth are gathering at the church and then heading to Wallmart for a night of shopping. However, it is not for themselves. Each one will have a shopping list from a family from McClintock Middle School. And you should see what's on that list. Not a new phone or an IPad or a laptop computer. Things like underwear, paper towels, black socks, a pair of jeans.
After shopping, they will return to the church for pizza and gift wrapping. It is a long, crazy, confusing and all together glorious night.
What makes it so cool is that they know they will make this Christmas one to remember for these kids.
On their list are 100 kids and about 50 adults (mostly single moms). Last year we had raised enough for about $100 per kid and $50 per mom. However, giving is down. We will only be able to spend about $60 per kid and maybe $25 per mom.
Unless you help.
If you have plenty and would like to give to these families with so little, go on line to our website (www.christelca.org). In the upper right hand corner there is a link "on line giving." Click that and designate your gift "Friday Christmas Gift."
Merry Christmas!
Pastor Scott
After shopping, they will return to the church for pizza and gift wrapping. It is a long, crazy, confusing and all together glorious night.
What makes it so cool is that they know they will make this Christmas one to remember for these kids.
On their list are 100 kids and about 50 adults (mostly single moms). Last year we had raised enough for about $100 per kid and $50 per mom. However, giving is down. We will only be able to spend about $60 per kid and maybe $25 per mom.
Unless you help.
If you have plenty and would like to give to these families with so little, go on line to our website (www.christelca.org). In the upper right hand corner there is a link "on line giving." Click that and designate your gift "Friday Christmas Gift."
Merry Christmas!
Pastor Scott
Monday, December 6, 2010
Little Red Thread
On Sunday, December 5, we handed out pieces of red thread, encouraging people to tie one around their wrist for these next three weeks of December. This is crunch time with all the travel, cooking, shopping, decorating and gatherings. To prevent us from just going through the motions or struggling with stress or worrying about expenses, the red thread serves as a reminder for our hearts to be still. We are still going to be doing all of those things these next three weeks but we don't have to do them with a frantic heart.
So I was wondering if you have any stories about your red thread. Did someone comment on it? Did you have to check it while battling traffic? Did it remind you to still your heart when the "to do" list began to grow? Tell me about your stories about your little red thread.
This morning I heard one. A family waited in line at the mall for Santa--for two hours! As they slowly inched their way forward, the person in front of them evidently had been saving a place in line for 3-4 other families. So as they neared Santa, suddenly these families appeared out of no where and joined their friend in line, thus extending the wait that much longer.
She had a choice. She could call security and have them arrested and thrown into an icy prison in the North Pole. Instead, she looked at her children, glanced at her little red thread, breathed, and stilled her heart.
A better choice--even in the face of rude people!
What's your story about your little red thread?
Peace,
Pastor Scott
So I was wondering if you have any stories about your red thread. Did someone comment on it? Did you have to check it while battling traffic? Did it remind you to still your heart when the "to do" list began to grow? Tell me about your stories about your little red thread.
This morning I heard one. A family waited in line at the mall for Santa--for two hours! As they slowly inched their way forward, the person in front of them evidently had been saving a place in line for 3-4 other families. So as they neared Santa, suddenly these families appeared out of no where and joined their friend in line, thus extending the wait that much longer.
She had a choice. She could call security and have them arrested and thrown into an icy prison in the North Pole. Instead, she looked at her children, glanced at her little red thread, breathed, and stilled her heart.
A better choice--even in the face of rude people!
What's your story about your little red thread?
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Thanksliving: Reprise
Hey, first of all, check out the comments from the last blog, "Thanksliving." Very cool!
As I continue to give thanks, this past week, we've hit some milestones when it comes to The Master's Plan.
1. Combined between Phase I and Phase II, we have raised (drum roll, please!) $7,000,000.00! WOW.
2. We've said that we need $4,000,000.00 dollars in the bank before breaking ground. This week, we just passed the $3,000,000.00 mark. We are now (just!) under a million dollars to go.
3. We also said that for every million raised for Phase II, we would give away $50,000.00. With the first million, we gave that check to Charlotte Rescue Mission last Memorial Weekend. We are now only $110,000 away from hitting that next benchmark. Hopefully, we will be able to give Urban Ministries here in Charlotte their $50,000.00 in Janaury.
Continuing the theme of Thanksliving from the last blog, I'm thankful for a couple more things:
I'm thankful that we can (alway) talk about raising money to expand our facilities because it means that God is not done with CLC, yet.
I'm thankful that we are giving away $50,000 because it means that the impact of CLC extends beyond these walls.
I'm thankful that I am being stretched with my personal giving because it means I have money to give and I am growing as a disciple.
I'm thankful for this congregation's generosity because it means that the Spirit is alive and well.
O Come Let Us Adore Him!
Pastor Scott
As I continue to give thanks, this past week, we've hit some milestones when it comes to The Master's Plan.
1. Combined between Phase I and Phase II, we have raised (drum roll, please!) $7,000,000.00! WOW.
2. We've said that we need $4,000,000.00 dollars in the bank before breaking ground. This week, we just passed the $3,000,000.00 mark. We are now (just!) under a million dollars to go.
3. We also said that for every million raised for Phase II, we would give away $50,000.00. With the first million, we gave that check to Charlotte Rescue Mission last Memorial Weekend. We are now only $110,000 away from hitting that next benchmark. Hopefully, we will be able to give Urban Ministries here in Charlotte their $50,000.00 in Janaury.
Continuing the theme of Thanksliving from the last blog, I'm thankful for a couple more things:
I'm thankful that we can (alway) talk about raising money to expand our facilities because it means that God is not done with CLC, yet.
I'm thankful that we are giving away $50,000 because it means that the impact of CLC extends beyond these walls.
I'm thankful that I am being stretched with my personal giving because it means I have money to give and I am growing as a disciple.
I'm thankful for this congregation's generosity because it means that the Spirit is alive and well.
O Come Let Us Adore Him!
Pastor Scott
Monday, November 22, 2010
Thanksliving
I remember once hearing a widow say that the one thing she misses most after her husband's death were his whiskers in the bathroom sink. He would trim his mustache everday, spraying little whiskers everywhere. She would get so upset with him. . .until he died. Now she wishes that she could clean up whiskers in the bathroom sink. It would mean that he was near.
There are a lot of little irritants in our lives. But what if we were to turn them around and see them as a blessing--like whiskers in the sink?
I am thankful for. . .
taxes, because it means I am employed.
a lawn that needs mowing and windows that need cleaning because it means I have a home.
the lady behind me singing off key at church because it means I can hear.
the piles of laundry because I know my loved ones are near.
weary and achy muscles because it means I've been active.
a crowded church because it means people are worshipping God.
parking far away because it means I can walk.
whiskers in the bathroom sink because it means he is here with me.
So, what has you all hot and bothered and grumpy? Chances are, if you turn it around, it probably isn't that big of a deal. In fact, it just might be the source of your own "thanksliving," a life of gratitude.
Give me a response. . .I'm thankful for. . .because it means that. . .
Happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Scott
There are a lot of little irritants in our lives. But what if we were to turn them around and see them as a blessing--like whiskers in the sink?
I am thankful for. . .
taxes, because it means I am employed.
a lawn that needs mowing and windows that need cleaning because it means I have a home.
the lady behind me singing off key at church because it means I can hear.
the piles of laundry because I know my loved ones are near.
weary and achy muscles because it means I've been active.
a crowded church because it means people are worshipping God.
parking far away because it means I can walk.
whiskers in the bathroom sink because it means he is here with me.
So, what has you all hot and bothered and grumpy? Chances are, if you turn it around, it probably isn't that big of a deal. In fact, it just might be the source of your own "thanksliving," a life of gratitude.
Give me a response. . .I'm thankful for. . .because it means that. . .
Happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Scott
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
AGM
That stands for Alternative Gift Market, and it's one of the coolest things that we do at Christ Lutheran (and that's saying alot!)
AGM provides an opportunity for you to go shopping for those people on your list that either have everything they could need or you just want to get them a little something special and unique. There are crafts from third world countries but you can also buy a tree to be planted in Haiti or a goat to be given to a person in Tanzania or a meal for a child in Darfur or advocacy for a girl caught in the Asian sex trade.
After you purchase your items, you go to the check out and receive a Christmas card that you can then send to the individual and tell them, "a pig in Peru has been donated in your honor."
How cool is that? Last year, someone bought me a bag of nails for a Habitat House and a bag of smiles for the children in Romania. That's way better than a tie.
AGM is this coming Sunday, November 21, all morning in the Fellowship Hall. Go buy your loved one a dose of medicine to fight cholera in Haiti. They will love it!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
AGM provides an opportunity for you to go shopping for those people on your list that either have everything they could need or you just want to get them a little something special and unique. There are crafts from third world countries but you can also buy a tree to be planted in Haiti or a goat to be given to a person in Tanzania or a meal for a child in Darfur or advocacy for a girl caught in the Asian sex trade.
After you purchase your items, you go to the check out and receive a Christmas card that you can then send to the individual and tell them, "a pig in Peru has been donated in your honor."
How cool is that? Last year, someone bought me a bag of nails for a Habitat House and a bag of smiles for the children in Romania. That's way better than a tie.
AGM is this coming Sunday, November 21, all morning in the Fellowship Hall. Go buy your loved one a dose of medicine to fight cholera in Haiti. They will love it!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Family Feud
Survey Says!. . .
Remember that great TV Game Show? It started with Richard Dawson (from Hogan's Heroes) shaking hands and kissing ladies and going through the answers to the survey questions.
We are doing the same on Sunday night, November 14. Though Richard is not making an appearance, our own Mike Wilder will do the honors. The evening will begin with a potluck dinner at 5:00 followed by the game show. We will draw some participants from the audience to play the game.
It is all part of The Master's Plan follow up to bring the congregation up to speed on how much money we've received, what the next steps are, and how close we are to breaking ground for our new building.
So prepare that orange jello with carrot slices, open up that can of cream of mushroom soup and mix it with tater tots, and join us for a fun congregational event this coming Sunday, November 14.
Survey Says!
Pastor Scott
Remember that great TV Game Show? It started with Richard Dawson (from Hogan's Heroes) shaking hands and kissing ladies and going through the answers to the survey questions.
We are doing the same on Sunday night, November 14. Though Richard is not making an appearance, our own Mike Wilder will do the honors. The evening will begin with a potluck dinner at 5:00 followed by the game show. We will draw some participants from the audience to play the game.
It is all part of The Master's Plan follow up to bring the congregation up to speed on how much money we've received, what the next steps are, and how close we are to breaking ground for our new building.
So prepare that orange jello with carrot slices, open up that can of cream of mushroom soup and mix it with tater tots, and join us for a fun congregational event this coming Sunday, November 14.
Survey Says!
Pastor Scott
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
All Saints Sunday
Who is your hero of the faith?
While some will point to more famous people who have transformed the world like Martin Luther or Mother Teresa or even St. Paul, most people identify someone more close to home. It's a grandmother who loved Jesus. A grandfather who was a man of prayer. A mother whose love embodied God's. Or a father whose unspoken faith could be heard by all. These are the ones who have shaped us personally by making faith come alive.
This Sunday is All Saints Sunday. It is the one day of the Church Year that we dedicate to the memory of all those who have died in faith and now have joined the Church Triumphant. For the most part, these are the unsung heroes. Nevertheless, they are important to us.
So, who is your hero of the faith? The one who introduced you to Jesus? The one who modeled prayer? The one who lived out their faith? The one who reflected the love of God?
Got a name?
Now, join us on Sunday as we remember them and the impact that they have had on our faith journey. And join me and others as we light a candle for him or her and "for all the saints who from their labors rest."
Let Light Perpetual Shine Upon Them!
Pastor Scott
While some will point to more famous people who have transformed the world like Martin Luther or Mother Teresa or even St. Paul, most people identify someone more close to home. It's a grandmother who loved Jesus. A grandfather who was a man of prayer. A mother whose love embodied God's. Or a father whose unspoken faith could be heard by all. These are the ones who have shaped us personally by making faith come alive.
This Sunday is All Saints Sunday. It is the one day of the Church Year that we dedicate to the memory of all those who have died in faith and now have joined the Church Triumphant. For the most part, these are the unsung heroes. Nevertheless, they are important to us.
So, who is your hero of the faith? The one who introduced you to Jesus? The one who modeled prayer? The one who lived out their faith? The one who reflected the love of God?
Got a name?
Now, join us on Sunday as we remember them and the impact that they have had on our faith journey. And join me and others as we light a candle for him or her and "for all the saints who from their labors rest."
Let Light Perpetual Shine Upon Them!
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Happy Reformation Sunday!
I suppose it happens only once every seven years when Reformation Day (October 31) actually lands on a Sunday. But this year it does.
Offended by the sale of indulgences for the forgiveness of sins, thinly veiled as a fundraiser for St. Peter's Cathedral, Martin Luther nailed on the Wittenberg Chapel Door the 95 Theses. Orginally written in Latin, Luther meant this posting for academic debate. However, his friends quickly translated it into German and scattered throughout Germany with the new invention called the printing press.
Do you know what points Luther made with these 95 Theses? Let me give you a couple.
--The Pope cannot forgive sins except with the pronouncement of God's forgiveness.
--the effect of indulgences are only for the living. They have no impact on those who have died.
--the teaching of purgatory must have occurred when the bishops slept
--erroneous teaching that the soul flies out of purgatory when the pennies jingle in the coffers
--Every true repentant Christian has the forgiveness of sins even without a letter of pardon.
--Christians should be taught that acts of mercy are far more beneficial and faithful than buying letters of pardon.
--The Pope should spend his own money for the forgiveness of people's sins out of divine mercy.
--To think a purchased papal pardon could forgive someone of even violating the Virgin Mary is madness
--Why doesn't the Pope simply empty purgatory out of holy love and not for profit?
--Why doesn't the Pope, one of the richest people, use his own money to build St. Peters instead of the money of the poor?
"Justification by faith apart from works of the law." That was the hallmark of the Reformation that we continue to celebrate and live today.
Join us on October 31 to continue the Reformation!
Pastor Scott
Offended by the sale of indulgences for the forgiveness of sins, thinly veiled as a fundraiser for St. Peter's Cathedral, Martin Luther nailed on the Wittenberg Chapel Door the 95 Theses. Orginally written in Latin, Luther meant this posting for academic debate. However, his friends quickly translated it into German and scattered throughout Germany with the new invention called the printing press.
Do you know what points Luther made with these 95 Theses? Let me give you a couple.
--The Pope cannot forgive sins except with the pronouncement of God's forgiveness.
--the effect of indulgences are only for the living. They have no impact on those who have died.
--the teaching of purgatory must have occurred when the bishops slept
--erroneous teaching that the soul flies out of purgatory when the pennies jingle in the coffers
--Every true repentant Christian has the forgiveness of sins even without a letter of pardon.
--Christians should be taught that acts of mercy are far more beneficial and faithful than buying letters of pardon.
--The Pope should spend his own money for the forgiveness of people's sins out of divine mercy.
--To think a purchased papal pardon could forgive someone of even violating the Virgin Mary is madness
--Why doesn't the Pope simply empty purgatory out of holy love and not for profit?
--Why doesn't the Pope, one of the richest people, use his own money to build St. Peters instead of the money of the poor?
"Justification by faith apart from works of the law." That was the hallmark of the Reformation that we continue to celebrate and live today.
Join us on October 31 to continue the Reformation!
Pastor Scott
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Always Talking about Giving?
This past week I was delighted to receive an e-mail from a middle school member who wanted to know why we always are talking about giving at the church. She would rather hear the Word of God than about giving.
My first thought was how great it was for a middle schooler to be e-mailing the pastor, asking for more focus on God's Word. Bravo.
But then I dissected the e-mail a bit more. "Always." Are we really "always" talking about giving? Right now we are in October with our emphasis on stewardship but we intentionally backed off talking about giving from January into well into the summer. In fact, I received e-mails at that time wondering why we weren't talking more about the Masters Plan!
I can't win, can I?
So we really don't "always" talk about giving but let me add this. When we do, we are still focusing on the Word of God. In fact, there are 2350 verses in scripture dealing with money, possessions and giving. That's more than prayer or faith or grace. Jesus spoke about money and possessions more than any other single subject. Why? Because money has the greatest potential of stealing our heart away from God as our ultimate concern. It can quickly become that idol that we worship and trust.
Talking about giving has less to do with fund raising and more to do with discipleship. It's about living out what is printed on our coins--"In God We Trust." I need to give. It redirects my heart to focus on God. It teaches me obedience to God's word. But most importantly, it reveals a grateful heart for all that God has first given me.
We don't always talk about giving, but this week we certainly will because we are asking you to bring your pledge cards to church and place it on the altar in trust, in obedience and in thanksgiving.
After all, it is the Word of God!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
My first thought was how great it was for a middle schooler to be e-mailing the pastor, asking for more focus on God's Word. Bravo.
But then I dissected the e-mail a bit more. "Always." Are we really "always" talking about giving? Right now we are in October with our emphasis on stewardship but we intentionally backed off talking about giving from January into well into the summer. In fact, I received e-mails at that time wondering why we weren't talking more about the Masters Plan!
I can't win, can I?
So we really don't "always" talk about giving but let me add this. When we do, we are still focusing on the Word of God. In fact, there are 2350 verses in scripture dealing with money, possessions and giving. That's more than prayer or faith or grace. Jesus spoke about money and possessions more than any other single subject. Why? Because money has the greatest potential of stealing our heart away from God as our ultimate concern. It can quickly become that idol that we worship and trust.
Talking about giving has less to do with fund raising and more to do with discipleship. It's about living out what is printed on our coins--"In God We Trust." I need to give. It redirects my heart to focus on God. It teaches me obedience to God's word. But most importantly, it reveals a grateful heart for all that God has first given me.
We don't always talk about giving, but this week we certainly will because we are asking you to bring your pledge cards to church and place it on the altar in trust, in obedience and in thanksgiving.
After all, it is the Word of God!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Monday, October 11, 2010
Remembering Wilma
Last Thursday we had a memorial service for one of the matriarchs of the church--Wilma Hennig. Alert, faithful, gracious and engaging until the last couple of months of her 96 years, Wilma was a favorite of mine.
When it came time to select a biblical text for her funeral, instead of choosing Psalm 23 (The Lord is my Shepherd) or John 14 (I go to prepare a place for you), Wilma selected the confessional Psalm 51.
"Have mercy on me, O God, according to you steadfast love;. . .blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, cleanse me from my sin."
With this text, Wilma reminds each of us that there are no accomplishments or good deeds or memberships or service projects you can point to to earn God's grace. We must only point to the cross. We are all equal before the throne of God--fallen, sinful creature in need of God's forgiveness. At the core of her faith was Jesus who came to die that she would live forever.
The Psalm continues. . ."Create in me a clean heart, O God, and restore a right spirit within me." That he most graciously did for Wilma. . .and for all like her who come to him with a humble heart.
"For all the saints who from their labors rest, all who before the world confess, thy name, O Jesus, be forever blesed. Hallejah! Hallejah!"
When it came time to select a biblical text for her funeral, instead of choosing Psalm 23 (The Lord is my Shepherd) or John 14 (I go to prepare a place for you), Wilma selected the confessional Psalm 51.
"Have mercy on me, O God, according to you steadfast love;. . .blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, cleanse me from my sin."
With this text, Wilma reminds each of us that there are no accomplishments or good deeds or memberships or service projects you can point to to earn God's grace. We must only point to the cross. We are all equal before the throne of God--fallen, sinful creature in need of God's forgiveness. At the core of her faith was Jesus who came to die that she would live forever.
The Psalm continues. . ."Create in me a clean heart, O God, and restore a right spirit within me." That he most graciously did for Wilma. . .and for all like her who come to him with a humble heart.
"For all the saints who from their labors rest, all who before the world confess, thy name, O Jesus, be forever blesed. Hallejah! Hallejah!"
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
A Faith Crisis
Recently, I've been having some conversations with people regarding their giving. These are people who have made appointments with me to talk about having to decrease their giving not because of job loss or disagreement with the direction of the church or added expenses. These are retired folks whose retirement investments have tanked and the just don't have the reserves they once did.
What struck me about these conversations is that they needed to tell me. While most (younger) people would just cut back on their giving to the church in tight times without much of a thought, these families were undergoing a faith crisis. For their entire lives, the church has been central to their family. They have grown up generously giving to the church and supporting its mission. Their giving was not out of guilt or obligation. It was a deep expression of their faith. And now, no longer in a position to give at that same level, they are experiencing a faith crisis.
And so we talk. I thank them for their years of generous commitment. I acknowledge how difficult it is for them not to give at the same level. And to whatever extent I can, I absolve them of any guilt that they are experiencing.
When the meeting ends and they leave, I thought, "Wow. I don't think that the me-centered, younger, entitled generation could wrap their brain around having that kind of conversation with their pastor. Furthermore, I bet that they have no idea the deep sacrifice, long commitment and genuine faith of that older generation that provided this church for them to enjoy."
Do you?
What struck me about these conversations is that they needed to tell me. While most (younger) people would just cut back on their giving to the church in tight times without much of a thought, these families were undergoing a faith crisis. For their entire lives, the church has been central to their family. They have grown up generously giving to the church and supporting its mission. Their giving was not out of guilt or obligation. It was a deep expression of their faith. And now, no longer in a position to give at that same level, they are experiencing a faith crisis.
And so we talk. I thank them for their years of generous commitment. I acknowledge how difficult it is for them not to give at the same level. And to whatever extent I can, I absolve them of any guilt that they are experiencing.
When the meeting ends and they leave, I thought, "Wow. I don't think that the me-centered, younger, entitled generation could wrap their brain around having that kind of conversation with their pastor. Furthermore, I bet that they have no idea the deep sacrifice, long commitment and genuine faith of that older generation that provided this church for them to enjoy."
Do you?
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
From Fear to Faith
As I looked at the October lessons for our sermon series, "Connect the Dots," I noticed a pattern. See if you can see the same. . .
Ishmael is abandoned in the desert and must trust God to protect him.
Isaac is placed on the sacrificial altar and Abraham must trust God to provide.
Jacob wrestles with some strange creature at the riverbank all night long and must trust God that he will prevail.
Joseph is thrown into a pit and sold into slavery and must trust God to survive.
See the pattern? They all find themselves in a place of real (not imaginary) fear. And yet, for them to overcome, they must move from fear to faith.
There are plenty of things in the news that cause real fear--war, terrorism, job loss, the economy. Such fear paralyzes our actions, discourages our attempts, and shatters our hope. Many live in that state of constant fear. But as believers, we move from fear to faith, trusting that God is still in charge and has a plan for our wellbeing.
On October 24, I will ask each of you to bring forth your commitment card for the work of the church in 2011. For some, this will be an anxious and fearful time to put down on paper what you plan to give even in these uncertain times. But I'm asking you to follow the lead of the biblical witness. I'm asking you to look at these heroes of the past. I'm asking you to move from fear to faith in a God who has already overcome the world.
Fearlessly Yours,
Pastor Scott
Ishmael is abandoned in the desert and must trust God to protect him.
Isaac is placed on the sacrificial altar and Abraham must trust God to provide.
Jacob wrestles with some strange creature at the riverbank all night long and must trust God that he will prevail.
Joseph is thrown into a pit and sold into slavery and must trust God to survive.
See the pattern? They all find themselves in a place of real (not imaginary) fear. And yet, for them to overcome, they must move from fear to faith.
There are plenty of things in the news that cause real fear--war, terrorism, job loss, the economy. Such fear paralyzes our actions, discourages our attempts, and shatters our hope. Many live in that state of constant fear. But as believers, we move from fear to faith, trusting that God is still in charge and has a plan for our wellbeing.
On October 24, I will ask each of you to bring forth your commitment card for the work of the church in 2011. For some, this will be an anxious and fearful time to put down on paper what you plan to give even in these uncertain times. But I'm asking you to follow the lead of the biblical witness. I'm asking you to look at these heroes of the past. I'm asking you to move from fear to faith in a God who has already overcome the world.
Fearlessly Yours,
Pastor Scott
Monday, September 20, 2010
To Don't List
The Leadership Team of the church met this past week with a member of the church who is a consultant for many large corporations in town. What a valuable resource! He helped us clarify vision and expectations and job descriptions. But the best thing he helped us work on was our "To Don't List."
We all have "To Do" lists. But what about those things that are consuming a mass amount of time but having little impact? What about those things that are good things but just don't fit what we should be doing as a church? What about those things that we want to do, but just not yet?
So, we developed a "To Don't List." It helps clarify our vision, make better use of our time, produce a greater impact and prevents burn out.
I've got my "To Don't List." Is it time you start creating your own?
Peace,
Pastor Scott
We all have "To Do" lists. But what about those things that are consuming a mass amount of time but having little impact? What about those things that are good things but just don't fit what we should be doing as a church? What about those things that we want to do, but just not yet?
So, we developed a "To Don't List." It helps clarify our vision, make better use of our time, produce a greater impact and prevents burn out.
I've got my "To Don't List." Is it time you start creating your own?
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Shuffling Papers
Typically, shuffling papers is not a good thing.
We shuffle papers on our desk absentmindedly. The beaucracy of the DMV shuffles papers in triplicate through red tape.
However, on Sunday morning for the first time that I can remember, I heard shuffling papers. It wasn't fumbling through the hymnal or playing with the bulletin, there was a distinct shuffling of papers, of pages, from the Bible during the sermon.
Did you hear it?
Pens were in hand, Bibles were in laps, notes were taken, and pages were shuffled as we worked our way through the story of Noah's ark. It was a beautiful sound!
Stay with it. We've got only 43 more weeks to go. Bring your Bibles to church, go to the pastor's class that fills in the details, read the Taking it Home and talk to your children about their Sunday School lesson, too. They are learning about the same stories.
Oh, yeah, and shuffle those papers!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
We shuffle papers on our desk absentmindedly. The beaucracy of the DMV shuffles papers in triplicate through red tape.
However, on Sunday morning for the first time that I can remember, I heard shuffling papers. It wasn't fumbling through the hymnal or playing with the bulletin, there was a distinct shuffling of papers, of pages, from the Bible during the sermon.
Did you hear it?
Pens were in hand, Bibles were in laps, notes were taken, and pages were shuffled as we worked our way through the story of Noah's ark. It was a beautiful sound!
Stay with it. We've got only 43 more weeks to go. Bring your Bibles to church, go to the pastor's class that fills in the details, read the Taking it Home and talk to your children about their Sunday School lesson, too. They are learning about the same stories.
Oh, yeah, and shuffle those papers!
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Love and War
Why does she always floss her teeth that way. It drives me nuts! Why does he never think to close the dresser drawer? It drives me crazy!
Last night at Wednesdays Together during our marriage course, "Love and War," we took a lighthearted look at those little things about our spouse that drives us bonkers. However, rather than spending the evening nitpicking on those little annoyances, we looked at them from another angle.
First, these were the little things that we overlooked when we were young and in love. In fact, they may have been the very things that we found alluring. After all, opposites attract.
Second, over time, those pesky personality traits annoyed us and we thought it was our job to change our spouse. I will teach her the proper way to floss. I will nag him long enough so he remembers to close the drawers. That's my job! To fix him/her!
Third, we hit a major breakthrough in our relationships when we no longer see our job as the fixer. Instead, we look to our spouse as God way of transforming us. When we move from annoyance to tolerance to acceptance of those strange quirks in our spouse, then we become open to the Spirit's work of transformation of our heart.
Who has God put into your life with strange habits that bug you? Got someone in mind? Now ask yourself, "What is God trying to transform about me through this relationship?"
You might be surprised that you are the one who needs "fixing!"
Last night at Wednesdays Together during our marriage course, "Love and War," we took a lighthearted look at those little things about our spouse that drives us bonkers. However, rather than spending the evening nitpicking on those little annoyances, we looked at them from another angle.
First, these were the little things that we overlooked when we were young and in love. In fact, they may have been the very things that we found alluring. After all, opposites attract.
Second, over time, those pesky personality traits annoyed us and we thought it was our job to change our spouse. I will teach her the proper way to floss. I will nag him long enough so he remembers to close the drawers. That's my job! To fix him/her!
Third, we hit a major breakthrough in our relationships when we no longer see our job as the fixer. Instead, we look to our spouse as God way of transforming us. When we move from annoyance to tolerance to acceptance of those strange quirks in our spouse, then we become open to the Spirit's work of transformation of our heart.
Who has God put into your life with strange habits that bug you? Got someone in mind? Now ask yourself, "What is God trying to transform about me through this relationship?"
You might be surprised that you are the one who needs "fixing!"
Monday, August 30, 2010
What a Celebration!
I had a blast on Sunday with the kick-off of the fall program. Lots of people in attendance--1100. Wonderful food--thanks, Russell. Great displays of ministry opportunities--I hope you signed up. After the summer scattering, it was so nice to get reconnected once again with everyone.
Couple of things: First, there is a lot of excitement about this year-long sermon series of walking through the Bible that we call, "Connect the Dots." Bring your Bibles, go to the Pastor's Class, read along with Taking it Home (on-line daily devotion.) You will be a biblical scholar by June of next year (almost!)
Second, get geared up for Wednesdays Together. If you want the most out of the community here at CLC, this is the place to gather for lengthier conversation and deeper study. Dinner 5-6, classes from 6-7:30. We have a full and varied line up for classes this year beginning Wednesday, September 1, but if I can, let me put a plug in for the one that Gretchen and I are teaching--LOVE AND WAR.
We've never done this before--teach a class together. But this one rang a bell in our marriage throughout our celebrations and struggles. In an open, frank, humorous and biblical approach, we want to share with you some of the realities of marriage. Please join us in the Forum!
Welcome Back!
Pastor Scott
Couple of things: First, there is a lot of excitement about this year-long sermon series of walking through the Bible that we call, "Connect the Dots." Bring your Bibles, go to the Pastor's Class, read along with Taking it Home (on-line daily devotion.) You will be a biblical scholar by June of next year (almost!)
Second, get geared up for Wednesdays Together. If you want the most out of the community here at CLC, this is the place to gather for lengthier conversation and deeper study. Dinner 5-6, classes from 6-7:30. We have a full and varied line up for classes this year beginning Wednesday, September 1, but if I can, let me put a plug in for the one that Gretchen and I are teaching--LOVE AND WAR.
We've never done this before--teach a class together. But this one rang a bell in our marriage throughout our celebrations and struggles. In an open, frank, humorous and biblical approach, we want to share with you some of the realities of marriage. Please join us in the Forum!
Welcome Back!
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Rally Sunday--August 29
By the end of May, I'm tired. May has become the new December with all the end-of-year activities for both the school and the church. By the time June rolls around, summer can't come soon enough. The longer days, the slower pace, more time with the family, vacations, beach, golf--it's all good.
However, by the end of August, I'm done with summer. The heat, the disconnect with others, the lack of schedule, the low attendance, the heat. By this time of the year, school can't come soon enough!
I am looking forward to August 29 when everything kicks off here at the church with Sunday School and fall programs. Come and plan on spending several hours in worship, meeting teachers, checking out classrooms, signing up for adult classes and staying for lunch.
Summer comes in just the nick of time. So does the fall. After a season of disjointed summer travels and schedules, it will be nice to gather as a family of believers again for a reunion.
If you've been away for awhile, come on back. There will be a place at the table waiting for you. Here, you belong.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
However, by the end of August, I'm done with summer. The heat, the disconnect with others, the lack of schedule, the low attendance, the heat. By this time of the year, school can't come soon enough!
I am looking forward to August 29 when everything kicks off here at the church with Sunday School and fall programs. Come and plan on spending several hours in worship, meeting teachers, checking out classrooms, signing up for adult classes and staying for lunch.
Summer comes in just the nick of time. So does the fall. After a season of disjointed summer travels and schedules, it will be nice to gather as a family of believers again for a reunion.
If you've been away for awhile, come on back. There will be a place at the table waiting for you. Here, you belong.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Monday, August 16, 2010
Connect the Dots
One of the biggest excuses people use for not attending a Bible study is, "I don't know enough about the Bible." It always seems odd to me that people will stay away from learning about the Bible because they don't know the Bible.
Um. . .let's take away that excuse.
Beginning on Rally Sunday, August 29, we will begin a 46-week sermon series that will walk through the entire Bible. We are calling it, "Connect the Dots." You will see how the various stories relate to one another and how they connect throughout history to show how God's story of salvation culminates with Jesus.
To supplement the sermon, there will be a Pastor's Class on Sunday and repeated at Wednesdays Together to go more in detail and field questions.
So, bring you Bibles and a pen and follow along the dotted line to discover the greatest story ever told. And I promise at the end, you won't feel as if you are done studying the Bible. You will be ready for even more.
This time, with no excuses!
Um. . .let's take away that excuse.
Beginning on Rally Sunday, August 29, we will begin a 46-week sermon series that will walk through the entire Bible. We are calling it, "Connect the Dots." You will see how the various stories relate to one another and how they connect throughout history to show how God's story of salvation culminates with Jesus.
To supplement the sermon, there will be a Pastor's Class on Sunday and repeated at Wednesdays Together to go more in detail and field questions.
So, bring you Bibles and a pen and follow along the dotted line to discover the greatest story ever told. And I promise at the end, you won't feel as if you are done studying the Bible. You will be ready for even more.
This time, with no excuses!
Monday, August 9, 2010
Back Home
Several years ago, Nathan (now 16) asked us the question, "When are we going to be from North Carolina." At first we didn't understand the question so when we asked him to explain, he said that he had heard us often use the phrase, "We are from Minnesota."
At that moment, we decided it was time to be "from North Carolina."
When we return to Minnesota for our annual Reunion, it is always a great time of family and friends. We really keep that as a priority on our calendar. But as enjoyable as that time is, we are very much aware that our trip to Minnesota is not coming home. After all, we are from North Carolina. This is our home.
When the two weeks in Minnesota have past and it is time to pack up the car and return, we are coming home. And one of the things I miss most about home is the community here at Christ Lutheran. I worshipped elsewhere on vacation but yesterday at worship here at Christ, I was glad to be back home here.
It is easy to take what we have at Christ for granted--the people, the quality, the music, the programs, the Spirit. It doesn't take much wandering away to realize the treasure that is found here. I discovered that in just two weeks away.
So if you've been away for awhile this summer, it is time to come on back home. We would love to see you again within the family here at Christ who call this community of believers their home.
At that moment, we decided it was time to be "from North Carolina."
When we return to Minnesota for our annual Reunion, it is always a great time of family and friends. We really keep that as a priority on our calendar. But as enjoyable as that time is, we are very much aware that our trip to Minnesota is not coming home. After all, we are from North Carolina. This is our home.
When the two weeks in Minnesota have past and it is time to pack up the car and return, we are coming home. And one of the things I miss most about home is the community here at Christ Lutheran. I worshipped elsewhere on vacation but yesterday at worship here at Christ, I was glad to be back home here.
It is easy to take what we have at Christ for granted--the people, the quality, the music, the programs, the Spirit. It doesn't take much wandering away to realize the treasure that is found here. I discovered that in just two weeks away.
So if you've been away for awhile this summer, it is time to come on back home. We would love to see you again within the family here at Christ who call this community of believers their home.
Monday, August 2, 2010
God at Work...through our middle school youth
During the summer months our Junior and Senior High students meet on Weds. nights for Summer Praise; a time in which they all come together for fellowship, fun and devotions. It is a great time for our kids to reconnect with God and with one another; however, a few Weds. nights ago, the Middle School kids connected with our community in a very interesting way. They meet over in Youth House #2, now known as The Crossing, for their time together. On this particular night, I gave them the opportunity to take some Sharpies and write on the walls of one of the rooms in The Crossing. I told them they could write down their favorite Bible verse or favorite saying that gives them hope and encouragement; by the end of our time together, the walls were covered with writings. It was pretty awesome seeing what they had wrote, but I had no idea the impact it would have on others.
The following Thursday night, AA was meeting in The Crossing for their weekly get together. They have a set agenda to their meetings, but on this night that agenda was given a new twist. As people gathered, they began to read what the kids had written on the wall and were moved (some even to tears). They spent a good amount of time that night talking about what the kids had written and how awesome it was to see God at work in the lives of our youth. One lady in particular said that this was what she needed in her life right now; she needed to hear from God in a big way and that is exactly what happened through the writings on the wall. God moves in so many ways in this world; we are blessed to see it happen especially when it is through the youth at Christ Lutheran Church. Jeff Taylor, Middle School Youth Director
The following Thursday night, AA was meeting in The Crossing for their weekly get together. They have a set agenda to their meetings, but on this night that agenda was given a new twist. As people gathered, they began to read what the kids had written on the wall and were moved (some even to tears). They spent a good amount of time that night talking about what the kids had written and how awesome it was to see God at work in the lives of our youth. One lady in particular said that this was what she needed in her life right now; she needed to hear from God in a big way and that is exactly what happened through the writings on the wall. God moves in so many ways in this world; we are blessed to see it happen especially when it is through the youth at Christ Lutheran Church. Jeff Taylor, Middle School Youth Director
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Finidng a Community of Faith
For a week we had a cabin full of four adults and five kids all under the age of 8 up in Ely, MN. My brother-in-law's oldest, Anna, is 3 and full of life! Her favorite words this past week were "no way" and "I don't want to." I personally found the "no way" line pretty funny myself but my brother and sister-in-law didn't quite have the same take on it as I did. Now Gina and I have been pretty lucky with what I would consider good, well behaved kids. I am not saying this to make us look good but having good manners is something we have intentionally tried to instill in our kids. By the end of the week Anna was saying "please" when she wanted something and "thank you" when she got it.
Who we surround ourselves with has an impact on us. If we hang out with folks who are a little on the wild side chances are we will drift that way. If our group of friends are more on the reserved side that will rub off on us too. It is the same way in our faith life. If we surround ourselves with people who take their faith seriously and want to grow in their faith we will find ourselves in the same boat. If we spend time with people who just go through the motions we will do the same thing.
Jesus understood the need for community. When he sent his disciples out he didn't send them out on their own but in groups of two. They were there to support one another and encourage each other in their work. I hope you have found strong community when it comes to your faith life. We were made for community, our faith grows in community and we can have an impact on each other. Hopefully when the opportunity arises for us to be a part of community we wont find ourselves saying "no way."
Who we surround ourselves with has an impact on us. If we hang out with folks who are a little on the wild side chances are we will drift that way. If our group of friends are more on the reserved side that will rub off on us too. It is the same way in our faith life. If we surround ourselves with people who take their faith seriously and want to grow in their faith we will find ourselves in the same boat. If we spend time with people who just go through the motions we will do the same thing.
Jesus understood the need for community. When he sent his disciples out he didn't send them out on their own but in groups of two. They were there to support one another and encourage each other in their work. I hope you have found strong community when it comes to your faith life. We were made for community, our faith grows in community and we can have an impact on each other. Hopefully when the opportunity arises for us to be a part of community we wont find ourselves saying "no way."
Finidng a Community of Faith
For a week we had a cabin full of four adults and five kids all under the age of 8 up in Ely, MN. My brother-in-law's oldest, Anna, is 3 and full of life! Her favorite words this past week were "no way" and "I don't want to." I personally found the "no way" line pretty funny myself but my brother and sister-in-law didn't quite have the same take on it as I did. Now Gina and I have been pretty lucky with what I would consider good, well behaved kids. I am not saying this to make us look good but having good manners is something we have intentionally tried to instill in our kids. By the end of the week Anna was saying "please" when she wanted something and "thank you" when she got it.
Who we surround ourselves with has an impact on us. If we hang out with folks who are a little on the wild side chances are we will drift that way. If our group of friends are more on the reserved side that will rub off on us too. It is the same way in our faith life. If we surround ourselves with people who take their faith seriously and want to grow in their faith we will find ourselves in the same boat. If we spend time with people who just go through the motions we will do the same thing.
Jesus understood the need for community. When he sent his disciples out he didn't send them out on their own but in groups of two. They were there to support one another and encourage each other in their work. I hope you have found strong community when it comes to your faith life. We were made for community, our faith grows in community and we can have an impact on each other. Hopefully when the opportunity arises for us to be a part of community we wont find ourselves saying "no way."
Who we surround ourselves with has an impact on us. If we hang out with folks who are a little on the wild side chances are we will drift that way. If our group of friends are more on the reserved side that will rub off on us too. It is the same way in our faith life. If we surround ourselves with people who take their faith seriously and want to grow in their faith we will find ourselves in the same boat. If we spend time with people who just go through the motions we will do the same thing.
Jesus understood the need for community. When he sent his disciples out he didn't send them out on their own but in groups of two. They were there to support one another and encourage each other in their work. I hope you have found strong community when it comes to your faith life. We were made for community, our faith grows in community and we can have an impact on each other. Hopefully when the opportunity arises for us to be a part of community we wont find ourselves saying "no way."
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Is Retirement a "Biblical" Thing?
We save for, plan and dream about retiring but what does that say about our happiness with our current situation?
I am trying to find some biblical examples where "retirement" is brought up. In the Old Testament there are certainly examples of succession and replacing but nothing quite like spending your golden years doing traveling the world or enjoyig the grandchildren. In the New Testament it seems like all of the promiment figures work right up till their death, even if that death isn't always due to natural causes. Regardless, the bible doesn't seem to talk much about retiring the same way that we do.
I think there are two ways to look at this situation; first, are we finding fulfillment in our life's work? Are we able to combine what we enjoy with our work or are we simply working because it pays the bills and brings in a good wage? We are far too consumed with our occupations. Our work defines us, it brings us purpose but what if we dont enjoy our work? What if we have a passion but we cant find a career in it because it doesnt pay enough?
The second approach involves finding purpose outside of our jobs. What if our occupation was only a portion of our identity, only a way to fund what we really enjoy doing? This was how Paul lived his life. He was known to be a tent maker (Acts 18:3) and he used his occupation to fund his real passion, telling others about Jesus. He never built up a retirement fund and worked up until his death. He worked to fund his mission and found his identity not as a tent maker but as a missionary.
For most of us this is a lofty goal, myself included. But let's take a moment and think about our identity and where we find it. Let's enjoy the present and not dream about the time when we dont have to work any more. Let's realize that we can work for God until the day we go home and in doing so find greater purpose. Pastor Chris
I am trying to find some biblical examples where "retirement" is brought up. In the Old Testament there are certainly examples of succession and replacing but nothing quite like spending your golden years doing traveling the world or enjoyig the grandchildren. In the New Testament it seems like all of the promiment figures work right up till their death, even if that death isn't always due to natural causes. Regardless, the bible doesn't seem to talk much about retiring the same way that we do.
I think there are two ways to look at this situation; first, are we finding fulfillment in our life's work? Are we able to combine what we enjoy with our work or are we simply working because it pays the bills and brings in a good wage? We are far too consumed with our occupations. Our work defines us, it brings us purpose but what if we dont enjoy our work? What if we have a passion but we cant find a career in it because it doesnt pay enough?
The second approach involves finding purpose outside of our jobs. What if our occupation was only a portion of our identity, only a way to fund what we really enjoy doing? This was how Paul lived his life. He was known to be a tent maker (Acts 18:3) and he used his occupation to fund his real passion, telling others about Jesus. He never built up a retirement fund and worked up until his death. He worked to fund his mission and found his identity not as a tent maker but as a missionary.
For most of us this is a lofty goal, myself included. But let's take a moment and think about our identity and where we find it. Let's enjoy the present and not dream about the time when we dont have to work any more. Let's realize that we can work for God until the day we go home and in doing so find greater purpose. Pastor Chris
Hearts Filled with Gratitude
I'm sure by now you have received the nicely written letter from Pastor Troy this week announcing his leaving to accept a new call as Pastor of St. John's Lutheran in Winter Park, Florida. Our hearts are filled with gratitude for the job well done here at CLC over the past five years by Troy. The best we can hope for as a congregation is to hold onto these associate for a good five years, train them, expose them to a healthy ministry and then send them off to replicate that same experience elsewhere in the ELCA. We did that for Pastor John and now again for Pastor Troy.
So, while it is hard to see him go, I do so with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." I am excited for him on this new call and wish him all the best.
I wanted to give you all the opportunity to do just the same. Please place on your calendars August 22. That will be Troy's last Sunday to preach. Following worship, there will be an appreciation celebration afterwards where we can bring our words of thanks and well wishes and Troy and Cindy, along with their family, heed the call of the Spirit.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
So, while it is hard to see him go, I do so with the words, "Well done, good and faithful servant." I am excited for him on this new call and wish him all the best.
I wanted to give you all the opportunity to do just the same. Please place on your calendars August 22. That will be Troy's last Sunday to preach. Following worship, there will be an appreciation celebration afterwards where we can bring our words of thanks and well wishes and Troy and Cindy, along with their family, heed the call of the Spirit.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Pastor Chris and the Minnesota Bugs
This weekend my family and I will be heading up to northern Minnesota to spend some time with Gina's brother and his family. As we were planning this trip my only requests were that we go to a place with cooler weather (we went to the Oregon coast last year) and minimal bugs. Well, I think I got one of my requests filled.
I am not a fan of bugs at all. Growing up in Oregon didn't help as there are very few bugs in the northwest, especially compared to Minnesota. I wonder if I will have to put ankle weights on my kids to keep them from being carried away by the "bird-sized" mosquitoes we will encounter in the boundary waters.
If I could pick up the phone and ask God a few questions I would certainly ask him about the need for bugs. Are mosquitoes and ticks really essential to the web of life on this planet? What role do they serve? What is their purpose?
Bugs are trivial but don't we find ourselves asking God those "what is the purpose" questions on more than one occasion?
Job was in such a situation and his questions dealt with issues much more severe than pesky bugs. Job had lost everything, his wealth and family were gone and his body was covered in sores. His "friends" encouraged him to give up his faith and die. After multiple conversations between Job, his friends and others God finally speaks and his words are shocking.
"Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it?"
God continues to challenge Job for another 65+ verses, squarely putting Job in his place and reminding him who his in control.
There are many things in the world that don't make sense and probably never will, but who are we to question God? We may not be in the same situation as Job or lay awake at night wondering about bugs, but we all at one time or another question the way things are and, in our arrogance, think we have better insights. Once in a while we need to be put in our place, to be reminded who is in control and through experiences like that we can grow in our faith and trust in God.
I am not a fan of bugs at all. Growing up in Oregon didn't help as there are very few bugs in the northwest, especially compared to Minnesota. I wonder if I will have to put ankle weights on my kids to keep them from being carried away by the "bird-sized" mosquitoes we will encounter in the boundary waters.
If I could pick up the phone and ask God a few questions I would certainly ask him about the need for bugs. Are mosquitoes and ticks really essential to the web of life on this planet? What role do they serve? What is their purpose?
Bugs are trivial but don't we find ourselves asking God those "what is the purpose" questions on more than one occasion?
Job was in such a situation and his questions dealt with issues much more severe than pesky bugs. Job had lost everything, his wealth and family were gone and his body was covered in sores. His "friends" encouraged him to give up his faith and die. After multiple conversations between Job, his friends and others God finally speaks and his words are shocking.
"Who is this that darkens my counsel with words without knowledge? Brace yourself like a man; I will question you, and you shall answer me. Where were you when I laid the earth's foundation? Tell me, if you understand. Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it?"
God continues to challenge Job for another 65+ verses, squarely putting Job in his place and reminding him who his in control.
There are many things in the world that don't make sense and probably never will, but who are we to question God? We may not be in the same situation as Job or lay awake at night wondering about bugs, but we all at one time or another question the way things are and, in our arrogance, think we have better insights. Once in a while we need to be put in our place, to be reminded who is in control and through experiences like that we can grow in our faith and trust in God.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Homework Assignment from Pastor Chris
For my blog this week I am giving you a homework assignment: see the movie "Food Inc." It's not in theaters but you can find it on video, or I am sure it is "On-Demand," we rented ours from the local library (for free). The obvious question might be what does this have to do with faith? It is by no means a biblical movie, it does not talk about Jesus or the Bible but it does talk about how we are called to live with the world that God has created for us.
Unfortunately greed is destroying us and our world and it has become a silent partner in the food industry and we are the ones paying the price. At times being ignorant seems like the easy way out but when our ignorance leads to corruption and injustice we as Christians are called to act. As the body of Christ we are called to care for our brothers and sisters regardless of their ethnicity and economic status. Someone recently challenged the church's connection with social justice and I cant think of a more important issue for the church to be a part of. We must expose sin so that God's light may shine in that darkness. As hard as it is we need to educate ourselves into the darkness that is around us.
PLEASE!!! see this movie and when you do let me know what you think, I am curious to see how this movie effects you.
Unfortunately greed is destroying us and our world and it has become a silent partner in the food industry and we are the ones paying the price. At times being ignorant seems like the easy way out but when our ignorance leads to corruption and injustice we as Christians are called to act. As the body of Christ we are called to care for our brothers and sisters regardless of their ethnicity and economic status. Someone recently challenged the church's connection with social justice and I cant think of a more important issue for the church to be a part of. We must expose sin so that God's light may shine in that darkness. As hard as it is we need to educate ourselves into the darkness that is around us.
PLEASE!!! see this movie and when you do let me know what you think, I am curious to see how this movie effects you.
Monday, June 28, 2010
The Experience Homecoming!
WOW! WOW! WOW!
On Sunday, The Experience performed at both 10:00 and 11:15 at the homecoming concert after a week long trip to Tennesee and Missouri. With 75 high school youth and about ten adults, they knocked it out of the park. The singing was strong, the faces were alive, the skit was poignant and the message was clear.
When I am asked about Christ Lutheran Church, I tell them about worship, I tell them about some service opportunities like McClintock, but included in the top five things that make CLC unique is The Experience. Many of us remember youth group in churches where we grow up. These kids will remember The Experience as not just a youth ministry but a life-defining, life-changing experience that will shape them for a lifetime. This ministry is significant.
On a more personal note, my son Nathan was on the tour but when they got to Memphis, he experienced some severe abdominal pain. Long story short, he had to be left behind in Memphis with an adult chaperone, Catie, while the rest drove on to St. Louis. Nathan had emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction caused by scar tissue from an appendectomy over a year ago. Gretchen and I drove the ten hours to pick him up. I want to thank the care and concern that we all received during this difficult time. For Catie staying with him, for Mark making the right call, for the prayers of The Experience and for Nicole's beautiful blogs about the angels. We feel deeply loved and cared for by these kids and this amazing congregation.
Thank you,
Pastor Scott
On Sunday, The Experience performed at both 10:00 and 11:15 at the homecoming concert after a week long trip to Tennesee and Missouri. With 75 high school youth and about ten adults, they knocked it out of the park. The singing was strong, the faces were alive, the skit was poignant and the message was clear.
When I am asked about Christ Lutheran Church, I tell them about worship, I tell them about some service opportunities like McClintock, but included in the top five things that make CLC unique is The Experience. Many of us remember youth group in churches where we grow up. These kids will remember The Experience as not just a youth ministry but a life-defining, life-changing experience that will shape them for a lifetime. This ministry is significant.
On a more personal note, my son Nathan was on the tour but when they got to Memphis, he experienced some severe abdominal pain. Long story short, he had to be left behind in Memphis with an adult chaperone, Catie, while the rest drove on to St. Louis. Nathan had emergency surgery for a bowel obstruction caused by scar tissue from an appendectomy over a year ago. Gretchen and I drove the ten hours to pick him up. I want to thank the care and concern that we all received during this difficult time. For Catie staying with him, for Mark making the right call, for the prayers of The Experience and for Nicole's beautiful blogs about the angels. We feel deeply loved and cared for by these kids and this amazing congregation.
Thank you,
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
CLC in the News!
If you read the Charlotte Observer hopefully you saw that we made the paper. Apparently we weren't the only church in the area who tried something different for father's day. Another church publicized a shorter service (45 mins), had some cool vehicles, served up some grilled grub and sold cigars! Now I try my best not to criticize other churches, and hopefully this doesn't come across as a criticism, but I wonder if guys might be insulted by such an approach? As guys, do we need the service to be shorter and our mouths and eyes filled with things that "guys" like to make church enticing for us?
One of the things I like most about Jesus is how he is constantly challenging people, something I wish I did better and had the guts to do more often. Jesus doesn't say, "hey, if your not too busy why don't you come and follow me." He never says, "If your cross isn't too heavy why don't you pick it up and follow me." Jesus says things like, "Go and sin no more," "Sell everything you have, give the money to the poor, then come and follow me."
I believe that people want to be challenged we are just too often too scared to challenge them. We are afraid of offending them or putting them off, but if Jesus did it aren't we called to do the same thing? So here is my question for you, how is God challenging you? Is it in your giving, your serving, your prayer life, how much time you spend with your family? If something is important to us we work hard at it and important things usually take hard work. Are you working on your faith? Are you letting God challenge you to be a better follower of Jesus?
Pastor Chris
One of the things I like most about Jesus is how he is constantly challenging people, something I wish I did better and had the guts to do more often. Jesus doesn't say, "hey, if your not too busy why don't you come and follow me." He never says, "If your cross isn't too heavy why don't you pick it up and follow me." Jesus says things like, "Go and sin no more," "Sell everything you have, give the money to the poor, then come and follow me."
I believe that people want to be challenged we are just too often too scared to challenge them. We are afraid of offending them or putting them off, but if Jesus did it aren't we called to do the same thing? So here is my question for you, how is God challenging you? Is it in your giving, your serving, your prayer life, how much time you spend with your family? If something is important to us we work hard at it and important things usually take hard work. Are you working on your faith? Are you letting God challenge you to be a better follower of Jesus?
Pastor Chris
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Challenged by Jesus
If you read the Charlotte Observer hopefully you saw that we made the paper. Apparently we weren't the only church in the area who tried something different for Father's Day. Another church publicized a shorter service (45 mins), had some cool vehicles, served up some grilled grub and sold cigars! Now I try my best not to criticize other churches, and hopefully this doesn't come across as a criticism, but I wonder if guys might be insulted by such an approach? As guys, do we need the service to be shorter and our mouths and eyes filled with things that "guys" like to make church enticing for us?
One of the things I like most about Jesus is how he is constantly challenging people, something I wish I did better and had the guts to do more often. Jesus doesn't say, "hey, if your not too busy why don't you come and follow me." He never says, "If your cross isn't too heavy why don't you pick it up and follow me." Jesus says things like, "Go and sin no more," "Sell everything you have, give the money to the poor, then come and follow me."
I believe that people want to be challenged we are just too often too scared to challenge them. We are afraid of offending them or putting them off, but if Jesus did it aren't we called to do the same thing? So here is my question for you, how is God challenging you? Is it in your giving, your serving, your prayer life, how much time you spend with your family? If something is important to us we work hard at it and important things usually take hard work. Are you working on your faith? Are you letting God challenge you to be a better follower of Jesus? Let me hear from you! Pastor Chris
One of the things I like most about Jesus is how he is constantly challenging people, something I wish I did better and had the guts to do more often. Jesus doesn't say, "hey, if your not too busy why don't you come and follow me." He never says, "If your cross isn't too heavy why don't you pick it up and follow me." Jesus says things like, "Go and sin no more," "Sell everything you have, give the money to the poor, then come and follow me."
I believe that people want to be challenged we are just too often too scared to challenge them. We are afraid of offending them or putting them off, but if Jesus did it aren't we called to do the same thing? So here is my question for you, how is God challenging you? Is it in your giving, your serving, your prayer life, how much time you spend with your family? If something is important to us we work hard at it and important things usually take hard work. Are you working on your faith? Are you letting God challenge you to be a better follower of Jesus? Let me hear from you! Pastor Chris
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Faith Stories
One of the great joys in being a pastor is getting to hear the faith stories of the church’s youth. At the end of the Confirmation interviews, I ask the students: “Where do you want to go from here?” Often there is silence in the room and the look of confusion fills their face. Then the inevitable question breaks the quiet: “What do you mean?” Now that they are taking responsibility for their faith, the possibilities in their relationship with the divine are endless. They can leave my office and never pick up a Bible again or they can delve into a quest of enrichment where God becomes more amazing with each passing day. The choice is now theirs to make.
But it makes me wonder: What would happen if we had a Reconfirmation Program? Where would we be in our relationship with God as we entered it? Society makes it way too easy to get caught up in the mundane and superficial aspects of life. If the story of Christ is the truth of the world then why are so many Christians apathetic about their spiritual development? It is the condition of our souls that matters the most, not our intellectual prowess or physical beauty / fitness! Yet we see in our media that our priorities say otherwise. Our energies are spent on sculpting a better body or attaining additional skills in order to advance in worldly affairs. The possibilities of attaining our selfish dreams demote Jesus to an hour on Sunday, maybe. Think about your priorities and consider if Jesus ranks first, or even second, on the list. Make today the first in your Reconfirmation program where relationship with God becomes the center of your life. Pastor Troy
But it makes me wonder: What would happen if we had a Reconfirmation Program? Where would we be in our relationship with God as we entered it? Society makes it way too easy to get caught up in the mundane and superficial aspects of life. If the story of Christ is the truth of the world then why are so many Christians apathetic about their spiritual development? It is the condition of our souls that matters the most, not our intellectual prowess or physical beauty / fitness! Yet we see in our media that our priorities say otherwise. Our energies are spent on sculpting a better body or attaining additional skills in order to advance in worldly affairs. The possibilities of attaining our selfish dreams demote Jesus to an hour on Sunday, maybe. Think about your priorities and consider if Jesus ranks first, or even second, on the list. Make today the first in your Reconfirmation program where relationship with God becomes the center of your life. Pastor Troy
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Vacation Bible School
Remember going to VBS in the summer as a kid? I remember using yarn and popsicle sticks to make "God's eyes," signing songs and playing great games with my friends outdoors (finally!) after a long Minnesota winter.
This week at CLC, the halls and rooms are filled with kids and helpers doing crafts, singing songs, playing games, eating snacks and having a ball. Vacation Bible School is really a highlight of the summer with the crowd and all the energy. For good reason--attendance is up about 25% this year!
More than inexpensive babysitting for working families, VBS provides the ongoing foundation of faith captured in song and motion and stories and crafts. I still remember my time at VBS and I bet you do, too.
The theme is Sonquest Rainforest, and the creativity of the leaders and musicians far outweigh anything I experienced 40 years ago! Even if you don't have a child in VBS this summer, I would encourage you to join us for the closing on Friday, June 18 at 12:45. You will find yourself singing all the way back home those catchy songs that stick in our hearts.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
This week at CLC, the halls and rooms are filled with kids and helpers doing crafts, singing songs, playing games, eating snacks and having a ball. Vacation Bible School is really a highlight of the summer with the crowd and all the energy. For good reason--attendance is up about 25% this year!
More than inexpensive babysitting for working families, VBS provides the ongoing foundation of faith captured in song and motion and stories and crafts. I still remember my time at VBS and I bet you do, too.
The theme is Sonquest Rainforest, and the creativity of the leaders and musicians far outweigh anything I experienced 40 years ago! Even if you don't have a child in VBS this summer, I would encourage you to join us for the closing on Friday, June 18 at 12:45. You will find yourself singing all the way back home those catchy songs that stick in our hearts.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Monday, June 14, 2010
The Hermansen Family Spending Fast
This week my family and I are trying something for the very first time, a spending fast. We are going to try and go an entire week without spending a dime, not one penny! Now we did plan accordingly by filling up our gas tanks and our fridge but I am excited to see if we can do it.
One of the comments I have struggled with regarding our economy is that any hope for an upward turn hinges on people spending money, that the financial success of our country depends on whether or not people buy things. I don't know how that sounds to you, but to me it sounds silly. Consumerism is running rampant in our culture and it is attacking our families, relationships and our faith. If we put our hope in shopping, if we find our value in possessions and if we buy into the lies of advertisements then our sole identity becomes as a consumer, we are nothing more than a potential buyer.
Over the past few weeks I have been meeting with a bunch of teenagers as they finish up their confirmation requirements by completing their pastoral interviews. One of the questions I ask each student is to tell me about an experience they have had that impacted their faith. Most of them talked about working at a soup kitchen. Each one has shared with me that they are blown away by how happy these people seem to be, even though they have virtually nothing more than the clothes on their backs. I encourage each student to look closely at that experience to understand where true happiness comes from.
The notion that the success of our economy relies on whether or not we take out our credit cards is ridiculous to me because I know we are far more than consumers. I want to challenge you to join the Hermansen family as we attempt a week long spending fast. Give it a try and let me know how it goes. I am guessing it will be a liberating experience.
See you Sunday,
Chris Hermansen
One of the comments I have struggled with regarding our economy is that any hope for an upward turn hinges on people spending money, that the financial success of our country depends on whether or not people buy things. I don't know how that sounds to you, but to me it sounds silly. Consumerism is running rampant in our culture and it is attacking our families, relationships and our faith. If we put our hope in shopping, if we find our value in possessions and if we buy into the lies of advertisements then our sole identity becomes as a consumer, we are nothing more than a potential buyer.
Over the past few weeks I have been meeting with a bunch of teenagers as they finish up their confirmation requirements by completing their pastoral interviews. One of the questions I ask each student is to tell me about an experience they have had that impacted their faith. Most of them talked about working at a soup kitchen. Each one has shared with me that they are blown away by how happy these people seem to be, even though they have virtually nothing more than the clothes on their backs. I encourage each student to look closely at that experience to understand where true happiness comes from.
The notion that the success of our economy relies on whether or not we take out our credit cards is ridiculous to me because I know we are far more than consumers. I want to challenge you to join the Hermansen family as we attempt a week long spending fast. Give it a try and let me know how it goes. I am guessing it will be a liberating experience.
See you Sunday,
Chris Hermansen
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
Attention all artists!
Beginning in the fall, we are going to launch a sermon series that will walk us through the Bible in a year. We are going to start with the great stories of Genesis, go through the kings and prophets, study the birth, life and resurrection of Jesus and then into the early church. We've never done this before--a 45 week sermon series!
You are going to be so smart and faithful after this one!
Why this series? Because I am constantly amazed that even our most regular members sometimes have difficulties with the details of the Bible and the order of events. If we are going to know more about God then we need to know more about God's word.
To help us visualize the stories, we are asking all artists to help us create icons or symbols for each of the stories. One per week. It can be out of wood or paint or metal or cloth or whatever else you like to use. We will decorate the entire Spirit Hall with all the works of art. And then, at the end, we will have this huge auction for those who would like one of the pieces for their home.
Interested?
We are going to meet on Sunday, June 13 in the church library. Come at either 11:00 or 12:15 to hear more. If you can't make it, call either Stephanie Burke or me and we will give you the details.
Beginning in the fall, we are going to launch a sermon series that will walk us through the Bible in a year. We are going to start with the great stories of Genesis, go through the kings and prophets, study the birth, life and resurrection of Jesus and then into the early church. We've never done this before--a 45 week sermon series!
You are going to be so smart and faithful after this one!
Why this series? Because I am constantly amazed that even our most regular members sometimes have difficulties with the details of the Bible and the order of events. If we are going to know more about God then we need to know more about God's word.
To help us visualize the stories, we are asking all artists to help us create icons or symbols for each of the stories. One per week. It can be out of wood or paint or metal or cloth or whatever else you like to use. We will decorate the entire Spirit Hall with all the works of art. And then, at the end, we will have this huge auction for those who would like one of the pieces for their home.
Interested?
We are going to meet on Sunday, June 13 in the church library. Come at either 11:00 or 12:15 to hear more. If you can't make it, call either Stephanie Burke or me and we will give you the details.
What Are You Doing on Father's Day? Church?
I hope you plan to be at church on June 20th because it is going to be an incredible day. Mother's day is the third biggest church day after Christmas and Easter. Father's day is typically not as big. We hope to change that this year. We are making June 20th all about the dads (and men) in our church and community. First, we are having a mini car show with some older cars and some newer ones. We have some guys in the church who share my obsession of cars but have actually been able to accumulate something cooler than a 1995 Honda Civic. They will be parked around the fountain. Please stop by and check them out.
Second, we have a special guest preacher, Mr. Leonard Wheeler. Leonard is a former professional football player who played for the Bengals, Vikings and Panthers. He has continued to be involved with the Charlotte community and strives to make a difference in the lives of everyone he meets. I first met Leonard through my wife who religiously attends his "boot camp" class at the Siskey YMCA on Wednesday mornings. I joke that the second coming is about the only thing that would keep her from attending his class.
One of the issues that churches struggle with in connecting with men is that church seems to be more on the feminine side. Is this something you have thought about or struggled with? Leonard is going to tackle this issue, among other things, in his sermon on Sunday. I hope you will be there to hear his story of how a hard hitting NFL safety not only maintained his faith during his playing career but allowed it to continue to shape his life and lead him to become the leader he is today and will be tomorrow.
I met with Leonard earlier this afternoon and let me tell you his personality is electric. I am extremely excited to see how God is going to speak through him to encourage and inspire the men and woman of Christ Lutheran church to become better followers of God. You don't want to miss this!
See you Sunday,
Chris
Second, we have a special guest preacher, Mr. Leonard Wheeler. Leonard is a former professional football player who played for the Bengals, Vikings and Panthers. He has continued to be involved with the Charlotte community and strives to make a difference in the lives of everyone he meets. I first met Leonard through my wife who religiously attends his "boot camp" class at the Siskey YMCA on Wednesday mornings. I joke that the second coming is about the only thing that would keep her from attending his class.
One of the issues that churches struggle with in connecting with men is that church seems to be more on the feminine side. Is this something you have thought about or struggled with? Leonard is going to tackle this issue, among other things, in his sermon on Sunday. I hope you will be there to hear his story of how a hard hitting NFL safety not only maintained his faith during his playing career but allowed it to continue to shape his life and lead him to become the leader he is today and will be tomorrow.
I met with Leonard earlier this afternoon and let me tell you his personality is electric. I am extremely excited to see how God is going to speak through him to encourage and inspire the men and woman of Christ Lutheran church to become better followers of God. You don't want to miss this!
See you Sunday,
Chris
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Questions, Queso and Q'doba's. It makes for a great evening.
Every Tuesdays, I'm meeting with seniors in high school and younger college students at Q'doba's in the Arboretum to go through the eight most difficult questions posed to Christianity.
What about suffering?
What about evolution?
Is the Bible reliable?
How can Jesus be the only way?
Miracles contradict science.
Church history is full of violence.
How can I doubt and still be a Christian?
Is Hell real?
The questions are real, the struggles are difficult and the answers are not always neatly tied up in a bow with three sentences. But together, we are addressing and answering the tough questions that these young adult must face in and out of the classroom as they defend their faith in a growing secular world.
You'd be proud of these kids! I am. For their faith, their questions and their willingness to sit down with their pastor to help formulate some answers.
Jesus said, "I'm sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. . .be as wise as serpents and as innocent as doves."
I'll let you know how it goes over the summer blogs.
Every Tuesdays, I'm meeting with seniors in high school and younger college students at Q'doba's in the Arboretum to go through the eight most difficult questions posed to Christianity.
What about suffering?
What about evolution?
Is the Bible reliable?
How can Jesus be the only way?
Miracles contradict science.
Church history is full of violence.
How can I doubt and still be a Christian?
Is Hell real?
The questions are real, the struggles are difficult and the answers are not always neatly tied up in a bow with three sentences. But together, we are addressing and answering the tough questions that these young adult must face in and out of the classroom as they defend their faith in a growing secular world.
You'd be proud of these kids! I am. For their faith, their questions and their willingness to sit down with their pastor to help formulate some answers.
Jesus said, "I'm sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves. . .be as wise as serpents and as innocent as doves."
I'll let you know how it goes over the summer blogs.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Pastor Troy Reflect's on Memorial Day
Memorial Day is the secular version of Easter Sunday when we set aside a day for honoring the fallen that died securing the freedoms we enjoy today. Listen to Jesus’ words through the lens of what our heroic patriots experienced: “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:12-13). He goes on to say that his decision to endure crucifixion is of his own volition. Heroes choose to respond to crises with courage. Remember September 2001 when recruiting stations had lines out the door with citizens eager to defend the country from further attack, and how the bombing of Pearl Harbor inspired thousands to leave home for foreign shores? But it isn’t weaponry that makes America great. It is the ideals we uphold as inherent and life-affirming. When the soul of America is threatened, sacrifice of self is secondary to community preservation.
Christians could learn a great deal from America’s salute to the fallen on Memorial Day. Are we willing to consider such dedication in our faith life as others have demonstrated for their country? The early Christians recognized that our spiritual life is akin to a soldier’s journey. Paul details the different parts of our battle gear, everything from a breastplate of righteousness to a helmet of salvation. Christianity in our contemporary context has grown soft because we have tricked ourselves into believing there is no spiritual war. Faith has been relegated to a portion of the complete life, behind financial security and anti-aging treatments. We’re in the middle of a greatest cosmic war between the forces of good and evil, and few people are lining up at the Christian recruiting office (AKA- the church)? Is the devil winning this “forgotten war”? A serious faith is a courageous one. If trust in God is not our supreme loyalty, what is? What are we willing to lay down our life for? Military personnel are certainly brave and I am grateful for their service. But there is something far better to uphold than American values. It is the Kingdom of God. Take time this week to reflect upon your faith journey and discern how best to position God as the center of your life. Be prepared for the spiritual conflict that is unavoidable.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam,
Pastor Troy
Christians could learn a great deal from America’s salute to the fallen on Memorial Day. Are we willing to consider such dedication in our faith life as others have demonstrated for their country? The early Christians recognized that our spiritual life is akin to a soldier’s journey. Paul details the different parts of our battle gear, everything from a breastplate of righteousness to a helmet of salvation. Christianity in our contemporary context has grown soft because we have tricked ourselves into believing there is no spiritual war. Faith has been relegated to a portion of the complete life, behind financial security and anti-aging treatments. We’re in the middle of a greatest cosmic war between the forces of good and evil, and few people are lining up at the Christian recruiting office (AKA- the church)? Is the devil winning this “forgotten war”? A serious faith is a courageous one. If trust in God is not our supreme loyalty, what is? What are we willing to lay down our life for? Military personnel are certainly brave and I am grateful for their service. But there is something far better to uphold than American values. It is the Kingdom of God. Take time this week to reflect upon your faith journey and discern how best to position God as the center of your life. Be prepared for the spiritual conflict that is unavoidable.
Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam,
Pastor Troy
Friday, May 28, 2010
Friday, May 28, 2010
If you are in town this Sunday, May 30, I hope you join us for worship.
On Sunday, we will make good on a promise we made as part of The Master's Plan to give away 50,000 for every million that we raise. We just crossed that million dollar mark and are delighted to present a check to Pastor Tony Marciano, Executive Director of Charlotte Rescue Mission. Specifically, we will parter with CRM on their Dove's Nest Program. CRM provides a 120 day, in-house treatment program for homeless women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. They are building a new, 90 bed center beginning the end of the year and we will be a partner with them in this ministry.
During this down economic times, the tendency is to hunker down and take care of yourself first. The survival instinct is for us to keep the 50,000, raise the four million needed to break ground and then think about giving money away. However, such self-preservation does not reflect the trust and faith of a community of believers. We need to give in order to remain true.
The same is true for our personal giving. The tendency now is preservation. However, as the church models generosity, so do we as individual church members, and trust God for the care that he generously returns to us.
See you on Sunday!
Pastor Scott
On Sunday, we will make good on a promise we made as part of The Master's Plan to give away 50,000 for every million that we raise. We just crossed that million dollar mark and are delighted to present a check to Pastor Tony Marciano, Executive Director of Charlotte Rescue Mission. Specifically, we will parter with CRM on their Dove's Nest Program. CRM provides a 120 day, in-house treatment program for homeless women who are addicted to drugs or alcohol. They are building a new, 90 bed center beginning the end of the year and we will be a partner with them in this ministry.
During this down economic times, the tendency is to hunker down and take care of yourself first. The survival instinct is for us to keep the 50,000, raise the four million needed to break ground and then think about giving money away. However, such self-preservation does not reflect the trust and faith of a community of believers. We need to give in order to remain true.
The same is true for our personal giving. The tendency now is preservation. However, as the church models generosity, so do we as individual church members, and trust God for the care that he generously returns to us.
See you on Sunday!
Pastor Scott
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
A Few Thoughts from Pastor Chris
How well do you remember your ten commandments? We three pastors are in the middle of confirmation interviews and one of the requirements of these students is to memorize the 10 Commandments, the Apostles Creed and the Lord's Prayer. For the next portion of this blog consider yourself in the middle of one of these interviews. The question that I want you to answer is how well do you follow the third commandment? Remember the sabbath day to keep it holy. How well are you living up to this commandment? We are a culture that prides ourselves on how much we can get down, how productive we are, how well we multitask and we are driven to be this way because the more we accomplish the more we are rewarded and we quickly find ourselves merged into the rat race.
Now working hard is by no means a sin. Working hard is a part of our DNA and God wants us to work hard but he also knows that we need to rest, hence the third commandment. If we continue to push ourselves and consume latte after latte eventually we will run out of gas and hit a brick wall. When we reach that point we are useless. How well are you obeying the third commandment?
We are about to enter a season that many of us look forward to, the summer, and with the summer comes the summer vacation. Is summer vacation a chance for you to find sabbath? Our summer vacation will involve a 1400 mile one way drive to the boundary waters in northern Minnesota. Believe me this does not sound like a sabbath to me. For some of us our summer vacation will include a ride to the airport, followed by lay overs, delays, lost luggage and bags that require a $50 ticket. Will you find sabbath here? We need sabbath but too often we feel we cant afford it or fit it into our busy schedules.
One of the Jesus stories that I struggled with for a long time involved Jesus going off to a lonely place to pray. Poor Jesus is off all alone and all by himself. But what is he doing in this lonely place. He is praying. He is reconnecting with God. He is finding sabbath. Now if the son of God needs sabbath how much more do we? I can't tell you what your sabbath should be, we are all created differently and we all connect with God in different ways but we all need sabbath, we all need to reconnect with God. So again I ask you, how well are you following the third commandment?
Now working hard is by no means a sin. Working hard is a part of our DNA and God wants us to work hard but he also knows that we need to rest, hence the third commandment. If we continue to push ourselves and consume latte after latte eventually we will run out of gas and hit a brick wall. When we reach that point we are useless. How well are you obeying the third commandment?
We are about to enter a season that many of us look forward to, the summer, and with the summer comes the summer vacation. Is summer vacation a chance for you to find sabbath? Our summer vacation will involve a 1400 mile one way drive to the boundary waters in northern Minnesota. Believe me this does not sound like a sabbath to me. For some of us our summer vacation will include a ride to the airport, followed by lay overs, delays, lost luggage and bags that require a $50 ticket. Will you find sabbath here? We need sabbath but too often we feel we cant afford it or fit it into our busy schedules.
One of the Jesus stories that I struggled with for a long time involved Jesus going off to a lonely place to pray. Poor Jesus is off all alone and all by himself. But what is he doing in this lonely place. He is praying. He is reconnecting with God. He is finding sabbath. Now if the son of God needs sabbath how much more do we? I can't tell you what your sabbath should be, we are all created differently and we all connect with God in different ways but we all need sabbath, we all need to reconnect with God. So again I ask you, how well are you following the third commandment?
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
We know that the economy is hitting people hard. Our giving at the church is down about 12%. (about $50,000) About 130 families who gave during the first quarter last year have given less than half that same amount for the first quarter of this year, 90 have given nothing at all.
The council made an immediate cut of $45,000 worth of expenses with some additional expenses on the cutting block if it is needed, some program, some staff.
Unfortunately, those who are hurting the most continue to hurt even more.
We have an account called the Pastor's Discretionary Fund. It's not for books or conferences or trips for me. It's to help out the poor who come knocking on the church door, looking for a meal or gas or sometimes a place to stay. In the past, it has built up to an account of several thousands. Today, we have a balance of $112.33 left.
This fund does not come from the general fund. It comes from generous individual donations of those who want to help out the least of these. If you are able to make a contribution to enable us to continue to help those worst hit by this economy, you can make it out to Christ Lutheran and in the memo put: Pastor's Discretionary Fund. And I'll make sure it goes to those in need.
Thank you!
Pastor Scott
The council made an immediate cut of $45,000 worth of expenses with some additional expenses on the cutting block if it is needed, some program, some staff.
Unfortunately, those who are hurting the most continue to hurt even more.
We have an account called the Pastor's Discretionary Fund. It's not for books or conferences or trips for me. It's to help out the poor who come knocking on the church door, looking for a meal or gas or sometimes a place to stay. In the past, it has built up to an account of several thousands. Today, we have a balance of $112.33 left.
This fund does not come from the general fund. It comes from generous individual donations of those who want to help out the least of these. If you are able to make a contribution to enable us to continue to help those worst hit by this economy, you can make it out to Christ Lutheran and in the memo put: Pastor's Discretionary Fund. And I'll make sure it goes to those in need.
Thank you!
Pastor Scott
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Sunday, May 16, 2010
It's May again--the new December! Honestly, can we cram any more activities into one month? Between all the end of year gatherings, staying up late for tests, and wrapping up the school year, this month seems to be even more overwhelming than preparing for Christmas.
To keep some balance, I try to keep first things first. First, this is the time in which spiritual matters can quickly take a back seat to all the pressing activities. Fight this. I do two things. I make worship a priority (not just because I have to be there, but because this keeps me balanced for the week) and second, I start the day with a prayer walk at about 5:45 to begin the morning with a conversation with God to sort out the day.
The second thing I keep as a priority is personal connections like family dinners that linger an extra half hour, talking about the day. With Hannah home for the summer, it is like old times again with the laughter and the playful jostling back and forth. Another is setting up intentional times with our small group so we don't let life overtake us or taking the initiative to contact friends for a more intimate gathering at a restaurant or around the fire in the back yard. Without these small gatherings, it can feel like those large May activities are nothing more than completing a checklist.
Don't reduce life to leaping from one event to the other. That can easily happen in May. Time to reconnect. . .with God as well as with others.
To keep some balance, I try to keep first things first. First, this is the time in which spiritual matters can quickly take a back seat to all the pressing activities. Fight this. I do two things. I make worship a priority (not just because I have to be there, but because this keeps me balanced for the week) and second, I start the day with a prayer walk at about 5:45 to begin the morning with a conversation with God to sort out the day.
The second thing I keep as a priority is personal connections like family dinners that linger an extra half hour, talking about the day. With Hannah home for the summer, it is like old times again with the laughter and the playful jostling back and forth. Another is setting up intentional times with our small group so we don't let life overtake us or taking the initiative to contact friends for a more intimate gathering at a restaurant or around the fire in the back yard. Without these small gatherings, it can feel like those large May activities are nothing more than completing a checklist.
Don't reduce life to leaping from one event to the other. That can easily happen in May. Time to reconnect. . .with God as well as with others.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
How do you clear out the clutter?
I don't mean sifting through the attic and throwing away boxes. I mean the clutter on the calendar. How do you draw the line and take back control of a life that is overcommitted?
The Leadership Team talked about that today when it came to the church calendar. We know that people love CLC and are committed to it. However, life, sports, work, travel, (you name it), all get in the way. And the church becomes one more event to check off an already busy life.
HIGH COMMITMENT, LESS HOURS.
As we planned for the fall, that was our slogan. How can we ask for the same high level of commitment with fewer invested hours? Crazy? I don't think so. I think if we minimize the hours while increasing the quality, people will have a greater commitment because they will be able to fully participate.
To help us, can you name a program at church that you think is worthwhile, but the time commitment prevents you from participating? Do you have a solution?
Thanks,
Pastor Scott
I don't mean sifting through the attic and throwing away boxes. I mean the clutter on the calendar. How do you draw the line and take back control of a life that is overcommitted?
The Leadership Team talked about that today when it came to the church calendar. We know that people love CLC and are committed to it. However, life, sports, work, travel, (you name it), all get in the way. And the church becomes one more event to check off an already busy life.
HIGH COMMITMENT, LESS HOURS.
As we planned for the fall, that was our slogan. How can we ask for the same high level of commitment with fewer invested hours? Crazy? I don't think so. I think if we minimize the hours while increasing the quality, people will have a greater commitment because they will be able to fully participate.
To help us, can you name a program at church that you think is worthwhile, but the time commitment prevents you from participating? Do you have a solution?
Thanks,
Pastor Scott
Friday, May 7, 2010
Friday, May 7, 2010
Here's a question for you (I'll need an answer soon for the sermon on Sunday!)
How do you discern the will of God?
Let me give you some ways I wrestle with it. . .
1. Prayer walk. I like to walk in the mornings, early, listening, searching and waiting for that sense of peace with a decision.
2. Bounce it off trusted Christian friends. There is something powerful when two or more gather in his name.
3. Look to where God is already at work, and then seek to join him (rather than asking God to join me in my hair brain ideas).
How about you? I'd like to suggest a few (anonymous) from the blog if you don't mind.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
How do you discern the will of God?
Let me give you some ways I wrestle with it. . .
1. Prayer walk. I like to walk in the mornings, early, listening, searching and waiting for that sense of peace with a decision.
2. Bounce it off trusted Christian friends. There is something powerful when two or more gather in his name.
3. Look to where God is already at work, and then seek to join him (rather than asking God to join me in my hair brain ideas).
How about you? I'd like to suggest a few (anonymous) from the blog if you don't mind.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
We had a death in the congregation on Monday. Shirley Dodge. Shirley and her husband, Bob, have been members of CLC for 35 years.
Shirley struggled with eyesight problems for 20 years. For the past three years, she has undergone dialysis twice a week. With her eyesight nearly gone, her health failing and her kidneys shutting down, we had one of those frank, honest, heart-to-heart conversations about when to give up and let nature take its course.
And so with confidence and faith, she wanted to make some plans for her funeral. She had some special requests, a couple of songs, one or two Bible passages, suggestions of people to speak. And then she asked what passage I thought might fit. I immediately said, "When Paul was awaiting his imminent death, sitting in a prison cell, he wrote, 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is a crown of righteousness awaiting for me. And not just for me but for all who long to see his coming.'"
Shirley said, "I like that."
I said, "I think it fits. I think it describes your long battle and your sure and certain hope of what lies ahead. By the way, has your faith always been this strong?"
"No," Shirley replied. "My husband, Bob, was the one who made faith and church important in our family. I give him the credit."
When I told Bob this, he had no idea.
Do you? Do you realize the impact that you have on others. People are watching and learning. You may never know the impact you have on others--for all of eternity!
Pastor Scott
Shirley struggled with eyesight problems for 20 years. For the past three years, she has undergone dialysis twice a week. With her eyesight nearly gone, her health failing and her kidneys shutting down, we had one of those frank, honest, heart-to-heart conversations about when to give up and let nature take its course.
And so with confidence and faith, she wanted to make some plans for her funeral. She had some special requests, a couple of songs, one or two Bible passages, suggestions of people to speak. And then she asked what passage I thought might fit. I immediately said, "When Paul was awaiting his imminent death, sitting in a prison cell, he wrote, 'I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Henceforth, there is a crown of righteousness awaiting for me. And not just for me but for all who long to see his coming.'"
Shirley said, "I like that."
I said, "I think it fits. I think it describes your long battle and your sure and certain hope of what lies ahead. By the way, has your faith always been this strong?"
"No," Shirley replied. "My husband, Bob, was the one who made faith and church important in our family. I give him the credit."
When I told Bob this, he had no idea.
Do you? Do you realize the impact that you have on others. People are watching and learning. You may never know the impact you have on others--for all of eternity!
Pastor Scott
Monday, May 3, 2010
"Lord Save Us From Your Followers'
Pastor Chris is our guest blogger today!
Last fall I saw a movie that moved me like few have. The films has a unique title, "Lord Save Us From Your Followers" and is beginning to have an impact from coast to coast. It would be classified as a documentary but it is so much more than that. The director, writer and producer Dan Merchant, frustrated by the "culture wars," sets out on a nationwide trek wearing a jump suit covered with political and religious bumper stickers in hopes of having a conversation with anyone who will listen.
I found this film to be challenging, convicting, enlightening but also hopeful. Too often we have allowed our differences to define us rather than our similarities. We have a long history of harming others in the name of religion, something many are still trying to heal from. How do we return to the core of the Christian message? How do we get back to the words of Jesus and use them as the foundation of our faith and actions?
I want to share this movie with you. Over the summer we will have a few showings of this film and take some time afterward to discuss it's impact on you. I hope this film can ignite a conversation in our church and spur us on to actions more inline with the teachings of Jesus. If this is something you would like to be a part of let me know (chermansen@christelca.org) I will reserve your seat and a bag of popcorn.
See you in church,
Chris Hermansen
Last fall I saw a movie that moved me like few have. The films has a unique title, "Lord Save Us From Your Followers" and is beginning to have an impact from coast to coast. It would be classified as a documentary but it is so much more than that. The director, writer and producer Dan Merchant, frustrated by the "culture wars," sets out on a nationwide trek wearing a jump suit covered with political and religious bumper stickers in hopes of having a conversation with anyone who will listen.
I found this film to be challenging, convicting, enlightening but also hopeful. Too often we have allowed our differences to define us rather than our similarities. We have a long history of harming others in the name of religion, something many are still trying to heal from. How do we return to the core of the Christian message? How do we get back to the words of Jesus and use them as the foundation of our faith and actions?
I want to share this movie with you. Over the summer we will have a few showings of this film and take some time afterward to discuss it's impact on you. I hope this film can ignite a conversation in our church and spur us on to actions more inline with the teachings of Jesus. If this is something you would like to be a part of let me know (chermansen@christelca.org) I will reserve your seat and a bag of popcorn.
See you in church,
Chris Hermansen
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Farewell to the Holy Land
Dear friends
We are on our way to the airports as we wrap up our trip. It has been truly a spiritual pilgrimage. Each night we debrief, have bible study and spend time in reflection and prayer.
This journey will only get better and better with the retelling and reliving the details with you about this holy land where Jesus changed the world one person at a time.
See you in church on Sunday!
Peace
Scott
Monday, April 19, 2010
Monday, April 19, 2010
Dear Friends,
The past two days have been inspirational.
Sunday, we worshiped at Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. It is a 150 year old Lutheran church founded by German missionaries in this (now) muslim city. Strange combination. The worship was primarily in Arabic but the pastor did a nice job of speaking in English to welcome those of us from the States.
The day ended with a trip to the Shepherds' Field were the "shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks by night." There is a small, beautiful chapel marking the place where the angels announced the birth of Jesus. we stayed in their for about a half hour singing Christmas carols in April. It was beautiful!
Today, Monday, we headed to the Dead Sea. When they say you can float in the water, it is an understatement. You can lie on your back with your hands behind your head and feet popping up out of the water!
We also had a trip to Masada where the Zealot Jews chose to kill themselves rather than become slaves to Rome after a 3 year siege in 70 AD. We also visited Qumran where the Essene Jews hid the Dead Sea Scolls in the caves overlooking the Dead Sea.
The day ended with a trip to Bethany where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. We sat in a small chapel built by the Crusaders, had a time of prayer and ended our time with Gwen Glaeser singing the Lord's Prayer as a solo. It was very moving.
Each night we end with a time of devotion, prayer, and reflection. We have a couple more days left and look forward to spending time back in Charlotte telling you all about it.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
The past two days have been inspirational.
Sunday, we worshiped at Christmas Lutheran Church in Bethlehem. It is a 150 year old Lutheran church founded by German missionaries in this (now) muslim city. Strange combination. The worship was primarily in Arabic but the pastor did a nice job of speaking in English to welcome those of us from the States.
The day ended with a trip to the Shepherds' Field were the "shepherds were keeping watch over their flocks by night." There is a small, beautiful chapel marking the place where the angels announced the birth of Jesus. we stayed in their for about a half hour singing Christmas carols in April. It was beautiful!
Today, Monday, we headed to the Dead Sea. When they say you can float in the water, it is an understatement. You can lie on your back with your hands behind your head and feet popping up out of the water!
We also had a trip to Masada where the Zealot Jews chose to kill themselves rather than become slaves to Rome after a 3 year siege in 70 AD. We also visited Qumran where the Essene Jews hid the Dead Sea Scolls in the caves overlooking the Dead Sea.
The day ended with a trip to Bethany where Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead. We sat in a small chapel built by the Crusaders, had a time of prayer and ended our time with Gwen Glaeser singing the Lord's Prayer as a solo. It was very moving.
Each night we end with a time of devotion, prayer, and reflection. We have a couple more days left and look forward to spending time back in Charlotte telling you all about it.
Peace,
Pastor Scott
Greetings from Jerusalem!
We had a busy day today going into the old City of Jerusalem where we walked the Via Delorosa, marking the various stations of the cross.
But the highlight was going to the Garden Tomb which also claims to be the location of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. We saw the rock formation that looked like a skull (Golgatha) and a tomb that appears to be one described in the gospels.
We ended the day with a private communion with prayers and hymns, so far the highlight of the trip.
Peace
Pastor Scott
But the highlight was going to the Garden Tomb which also claims to be the location of the crucifixion and burial of Jesus. We saw the rock formation that looked like a skull (Golgatha) and a tomb that appears to be one described in the gospels.
We ended the day with a private communion with prayers and hymns, so far the highlight of the trip.
Peace
Pastor Scott
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Today we saw the Mount of Beatitudes and the place where Jesus fed the 5000. We also took an hour boat ride on the Sea of Galilee and got a feel of that important body of water in the life of these fishermen turned disciples.
But the most enjoyable moment was as the Jordan River where together, all 41 of renewed those baptismal vows. We drove down a dirt road and found a remote place on the Jordan away from the thousands of pilgrims and buses and souvenir shops. We gathered on the river bank and, with the water splashed on our foreheads and the words, "Child of God you have been sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever," we remembered that we have been named and claimed and forgiven as God's very own people.
It is good to be here, walk in his footsteps, feel his presence and celebrate with other believers!
Peace,
Scott
But the most enjoyable moment was as the Jordan River where together, all 41 of renewed those baptismal vows. We drove down a dirt road and found a remote place on the Jordan away from the thousands of pilgrims and buses and souvenir shops. We gathered on the river bank and, with the water splashed on our foreheads and the words, "Child of God you have been sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever," we remembered that we have been named and claimed and forgiven as God's very own people.
It is good to be here, walk in his footsteps, feel his presence and celebrate with other believers!
Peace,
Scott
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Wedesday, April 14, 2010
After a twelve hour flight from Atlanta to Tel Aviv, we finally made it to the hotel for a late dinner and a much needed rest on Tuesday. Today, Wednesday, we began our tour with Caesarea where Paul was held prisoner (Acts 25) and Peter performed the first Gentile baptism of Cornelius (Acts 10).
Following this, we went on to Mount Carmel where the prophet Elijah took on 450 prophets of Baal for a sacrifice dual to the death (If you didn't know, Elijah won) I King 18. There is a church built over the cave where Elijah heard God's "still small voice."
Going on from there, we went to Nazareth to the Church of the Annunciation commemorating Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she is about to become pregnant. (Luke 1) Nazarth is also the place where Jesus had his first sermon to begin his earthly ministry (Luke 4).
We ended the day with a trip to Cana where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine (John 2). It fufilled Isaiah's prophecy in chapter 25 that when the Messiah come it will enter with a feast of fat things and an abundance of fine wine!
The group is traveling well, the guide has been good but to walk in His footsteps makes this more than another tour. It is a pilgrimage in which we end each day in prayer and song and reflection.
I'll keep you up to day on our daily excursions, keeping you in prayer and I hope you keep us!
Peace,
Scott
Following this, we went on to Mount Carmel where the prophet Elijah took on 450 prophets of Baal for a sacrifice dual to the death (If you didn't know, Elijah won) I King 18. There is a church built over the cave where Elijah heard God's "still small voice."
Going on from there, we went to Nazareth to the Church of the Annunciation commemorating Gabriel's announcement to Mary that she is about to become pregnant. (Luke 1) Nazarth is also the place where Jesus had his first sermon to begin his earthly ministry (Luke 4).
We ended the day with a trip to Cana where Jesus performed his first miracle of turning water into wine (John 2). It fufilled Isaiah's prophecy in chapter 25 that when the Messiah come it will enter with a feast of fat things and an abundance of fine wine!
The group is traveling well, the guide has been good but to walk in His footsteps makes this more than another tour. It is a pilgrimage in which we end each day in prayer and song and reflection.
I'll keep you up to day on our daily excursions, keeping you in prayer and I hope you keep us!
Peace,
Scott
Friday, April 9, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
On Monday I leave with 40 others for a pilgrimage to the Holy Land. It's my first time over there. About half the people are from Christ Lutheran and the other half are friends and families. I'll try to keep blogging from over there twice a week but it might be sporatic. Stay tuned.
On Sunday we start a new sermon series--a good old fashion Bible Study on the Book of Acts. For the next six weeks or so, we are going to walk through the contents of this important book. You will hear fewer cute stories of our kids and what we did during spring break ( ;) )because the purpose of this series will be an understanding of the foundations of the early church following Jesus' resurrection.
Luke (the author of Acts) recorded this history through the use of stories. When you choose which stories to include and which to exclude, you do so based on the purpose of your writings. While attempting to put together an "orderly account," Luke also wants you to know that this history of the early church is not the disciples' doing through hard work, vision casting, contemporary worship, small groups and volunteer recruitment. The stories Luke chooses to include all highlight the might power of God working through the Holy Spirit to transform dimwitted, uneducated fishermen into might men of faith sent out to change the world.
You can prepare for Sunday by reading through Acts 1.
See you in church!
On Sunday we start a new sermon series--a good old fashion Bible Study on the Book of Acts. For the next six weeks or so, we are going to walk through the contents of this important book. You will hear fewer cute stories of our kids and what we did during spring break ( ;) )because the purpose of this series will be an understanding of the foundations of the early church following Jesus' resurrection.
Luke (the author of Acts) recorded this history through the use of stories. When you choose which stories to include and which to exclude, you do so based on the purpose of your writings. While attempting to put together an "orderly account," Luke also wants you to know that this history of the early church is not the disciples' doing through hard work, vision casting, contemporary worship, small groups and volunteer recruitment. The stories Luke chooses to include all highlight the might power of God working through the Holy Spirit to transform dimwitted, uneducated fishermen into might men of faith sent out to change the world.
You can prepare for Sunday by reading through Acts 1.
See you in church!
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Sorry, missed a couple of days on the blog. Holy Week was wild (and great!) and then I headed over to John's Island with the mission trip to build a house for Habitat. I snuck away early and left the 30+ others to complete the job (though I wish I were there, instead!)
Habitat does not make sense on paper. Think about pitching this idea. "Let's give a group of 20 high school students and 10 adults to one skilled, Habitat carpenter and in one week, give them the challenge to build a house (or at least most of one.)"
Crazy? Wouldn't you think, "Hey, I watched an army of well-seasoned carpenters take months to finish my house and you want a bunch of kids to do that in a week?" No way!
But it happens.
For eleven years, a group from Christ Lutheran has gone to John's Island in S.C. near Charleston to do just that. They give us a platform and directions and like ants scurrying around the place, we leave after a week with a house nearly complete. I left after two days and we had the entire house framed, outside walls up and half the trussels on the roof.
Frank Reed gave a nice devotion/pep talk to the all the workers on day one. I'm paraphrasing here but it went something like this. "You could be at Myrtle Beach with your friends staying out late, getting into trouble and drinking. But instead, you chose to come here. I am so impressed with your choice. And make no mistake why you are here. You are changing a person's life. With this house, they not only will have decent housing and a safe neighborhood, but they will be accumulating wealth that will be passed down to the next generation to go to college or invent in a business or remain out of debt. This will make an impact for this family for generations all because you made the right choice with what to do with your spring break. Bravo!"
I couldn't have said it better!
Habitat does not make sense on paper. Think about pitching this idea. "Let's give a group of 20 high school students and 10 adults to one skilled, Habitat carpenter and in one week, give them the challenge to build a house (or at least most of one.)"
Crazy? Wouldn't you think, "Hey, I watched an army of well-seasoned carpenters take months to finish my house and you want a bunch of kids to do that in a week?" No way!
But it happens.
For eleven years, a group from Christ Lutheran has gone to John's Island in S.C. near Charleston to do just that. They give us a platform and directions and like ants scurrying around the place, we leave after a week with a house nearly complete. I left after two days and we had the entire house framed, outside walls up and half the trussels on the roof.
Frank Reed gave a nice devotion/pep talk to the all the workers on day one. I'm paraphrasing here but it went something like this. "You could be at Myrtle Beach with your friends staying out late, getting into trouble and drinking. But instead, you chose to come here. I am so impressed with your choice. And make no mistake why you are here. You are changing a person's life. With this house, they not only will have decent housing and a safe neighborhood, but they will be accumulating wealth that will be passed down to the next generation to go to college or invent in a business or remain out of debt. This will make an impact for this family for generations all because you made the right choice with what to do with your spring break. Bravo!"
I couldn't have said it better!
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
We've had another death in our faith community. This time it was not an elderly member who quietly drifted off to sleep only to awaken in the arms of the savior. This one was a 12-year old who was shot.
Her name was Na'Jhae and she was one of the children shot presumably by her father in the Providence Squares apartments last night. She was not a member of CLC nor did she ever attend, as far as I know. She was one of the McClintock students who joined us on Tuesday nights at the school for dinner, clubs and tutoring.
When we began this partnership with McClintock, we knew that it was going to be a lot of work. Part of it was with the sheer man-hours it takes to pull this off every week and throughout the summer. But a big reason this takes a lot of work is because we have two world colliding. Our calendar-driven, type-A personalities can't understand missing appointments--"make a list of priorities!" Our upper middle class living can't understand poverty--"make a budget!" Our two parent centered families can't understand lack of parental involvement--"get one of your parents to help you."
God knows we are trying to understand.
But the death of a 12-year old girl rocks both worlds. There is nothing good, fair or cultural about it. It's a tragedy where we both weep. But there is no one who weeps more than Jesus.
Perhaps that why Jesus makes us this promise: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more. . ." And they only way that Jesus can keep his promise is Easter. Easter comes not only with a celebration but with hope in the midst of death. Because he lives, so do we. So does Na'Jhae.
That's something we all need to hear, no matter in which world we live.
Her name was Na'Jhae and she was one of the children shot presumably by her father in the Providence Squares apartments last night. She was not a member of CLC nor did she ever attend, as far as I know. She was one of the McClintock students who joined us on Tuesday nights at the school for dinner, clubs and tutoring.
When we began this partnership with McClintock, we knew that it was going to be a lot of work. Part of it was with the sheer man-hours it takes to pull this off every week and throughout the summer. But a big reason this takes a lot of work is because we have two world colliding. Our calendar-driven, type-A personalities can't understand missing appointments--"make a list of priorities!" Our upper middle class living can't understand poverty--"make a budget!" Our two parent centered families can't understand lack of parental involvement--"get one of your parents to help you."
God knows we are trying to understand.
But the death of a 12-year old girl rocks both worlds. There is nothing good, fair or cultural about it. It's a tragedy where we both weep. But there is no one who weeps more than Jesus.
Perhaps that why Jesus makes us this promise: "He will wipe every tear from their eyes. Death will be no more; mourning and crying and pain will be no more. . ." And they only way that Jesus can keep his promise is Easter. Easter comes not only with a celebration but with hope in the midst of death. Because he lives, so do we. So does Na'Jhae.
That's something we all need to hear, no matter in which world we live.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
Last Thursday, the staff ran away for an all day retreat. We actually brought in my sister, Lisa, who works in Human Resource for Hosanna (Lutheran Church) in Lakeville, MN. This is a vibrant, huge (third in the ELCA), far-reaching congregation that is doing some amazing things. Whenever she and I talk about our churches, Hosanna makes Christ Lutheran feel like a small, rural country church with one service on Sunday morning and a Bible study in the church basement on Tuesday morning for 8 senior citizens.
She worked with the staff all day on their spiritual strengths. God has hard-wired each of us differently. The challenge is for us to figure out our own strengths, build on them and use them to God's glory. However, it is equally important to figure out the strengths in others so that we can team up together more effectively and make sure that each of us is in the right position on the team.
I had three take away from that retreat. First, I could embrace my strengths. There were about two that I really, really wished I had going into this retreat but now I'm ready to celebrate the ones I have and not regret the ones I don't.
Second, I could recognize the strengths in others. It helps me understand what makes people tick, what gives them passion, and how they can do so effortlessly that which I struggle to complete.
Third, I am more convinced than ever before that we have an amazing staff at CLC. God has assembled these people with these gifts at this time for this ministry. We have the staff in the right positions to maximize their strengths for the advancement of the Kingdom.
Sometimes it takes a day away from the phones, meetings and e-mails for us all to see just how God has showered us with blessings.
She worked with the staff all day on their spiritual strengths. God has hard-wired each of us differently. The challenge is for us to figure out our own strengths, build on them and use them to God's glory. However, it is equally important to figure out the strengths in others so that we can team up together more effectively and make sure that each of us is in the right position on the team.
I had three take away from that retreat. First, I could embrace my strengths. There were about two that I really, really wished I had going into this retreat but now I'm ready to celebrate the ones I have and not regret the ones I don't.
Second, I could recognize the strengths in others. It helps me understand what makes people tick, what gives them passion, and how they can do so effortlessly that which I struggle to complete.
Third, I am more convinced than ever before that we have an amazing staff at CLC. God has assembled these people with these gifts at this time for this ministry. We have the staff in the right positions to maximize their strengths for the advancement of the Kingdom.
Sometimes it takes a day away from the phones, meetings and e-mails for us all to see just how God has showered us with blessings.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
After spending way too many hours late into last night tiling our small laundry room, I have a greater appreciation for large, tiled surfaces. I look at the cuts, I notice how the tile butts against the baseboard, I inspect the grout. But I also breath a sigh of relief that I don't have to do that every day. Wow, is that hard work (and messy!)
I marvel at how an expert tiler could whip out a small room like mine in half the time without plaster globbed on the carpet and on the walls. I can do it, but it doesn't come easily or quickly. I suppose that's all on where our gifts lie.
I remember a while ago when I had to use a lawyer for something and after I read his document I said, "I am so glad that I don't have to do your job!" At which he promptly replied, "Funny, I was just about to say the same thing about your job. I couldn't imagine doing what you do."
God has gifted us all differently from the tiler to the lawyer to the pastor. We can probably do the other person's job (to some extent. . .you haven't seen my laundry room!) but it either takes longer, done not as well or we make a whole lot of mistakes.
But when you find out how God is gifted you, the stars all line up and life is as it is suppose to be. Have you found those gifts, yet? Maybe your first step should be to your laundry room floor and see if tiling is it. Or, you may find out as I did, that you can cross one more thing off your gifts list.
Happy searching!
Scott
I marvel at how an expert tiler could whip out a small room like mine in half the time without plaster globbed on the carpet and on the walls. I can do it, but it doesn't come easily or quickly. I suppose that's all on where our gifts lie.
I remember a while ago when I had to use a lawyer for something and after I read his document I said, "I am so glad that I don't have to do your job!" At which he promptly replied, "Funny, I was just about to say the same thing about your job. I couldn't imagine doing what you do."
God has gifted us all differently from the tiler to the lawyer to the pastor. We can probably do the other person's job (to some extent. . .you haven't seen my laundry room!) but it either takes longer, done not as well or we make a whole lot of mistakes.
But when you find out how God is gifted you, the stars all line up and life is as it is suppose to be. Have you found those gifts, yet? Maybe your first step should be to your laundry room floor and see if tiling is it. Or, you may find out as I did, that you can cross one more thing off your gifts list.
Happy searching!
Scott
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Patrick was born in the 4th century A.D. to a wealthy family in Britain, and his father was a Christian deacon. When he was 16, he was kidnapped and sold into slavery, where he turned to religion for solace. He later became a bishop and is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland.
According to legend, Saint Patrick used a shamrock to explain about God. The shamrock, which looks like clover, has three leaves on each stem. Saint Patrick told the people that the shamrock was like the idea of the Trinity – that in the one God there are three divine beings: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The shamrock was sacred to the Druids, so Saint Patrick’s use of it in explaining the trinity was very wise. Instead of introducing something entirely foreign, he built upon a foundation that they already had.
I think that is always the best practice in sharing your faith--build upon what the other person already knows or believes. If they are a scientist, speak about the God's blueprint on creation. If they are a poet, use the words of the Psalms. If they are a skeptic, begin with their difficult questions.
God is always at work around us, reaching and pursuing us in ways we sometimes miss. Patrick recognized this with the shamrock. Paul recognized this when he spoke to the people in Athens beginning with their poets and their altars. We try, also, to begin with the felt needs and the deepest hurts of those who come to Christ Lutheran. And from there, acknowledge God as one who is present in the middle of the tears and laughter, doubts and beliefs, joys and sorrows trying to make himself known.
The point is, start where people are at but don't leave them there. They mean so much to God that he refuses to leave them they way he finds them. Love doesn't always mean blind acceptance just the way you are. God's love is that acceptance that then moves the person to become that person whom God created. . .sometimes even with a shamrock
Patrick was born in the 4th century A.D. to a wealthy family in Britain, and his father was a Christian deacon. When he was 16, he was kidnapped and sold into slavery, where he turned to religion for solace. He later became a bishop and is credited with bringing Christianity to Ireland.
According to legend, Saint Patrick used a shamrock to explain about God. The shamrock, which looks like clover, has three leaves on each stem. Saint Patrick told the people that the shamrock was like the idea of the Trinity – that in the one God there are three divine beings: the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The shamrock was sacred to the Druids, so Saint Patrick’s use of it in explaining the trinity was very wise. Instead of introducing something entirely foreign, he built upon a foundation that they already had.
I think that is always the best practice in sharing your faith--build upon what the other person already knows or believes. If they are a scientist, speak about the God's blueprint on creation. If they are a poet, use the words of the Psalms. If they are a skeptic, begin with their difficult questions.
God is always at work around us, reaching and pursuing us in ways we sometimes miss. Patrick recognized this with the shamrock. Paul recognized this when he spoke to the people in Athens beginning with their poets and their altars. We try, also, to begin with the felt needs and the deepest hurts of those who come to Christ Lutheran. And from there, acknowledge God as one who is present in the middle of the tears and laughter, doubts and beliefs, joys and sorrows trying to make himself known.
The point is, start where people are at but don't leave them there. They mean so much to God that he refuses to leave them they way he finds them. Love doesn't always mean blind acceptance just the way you are. God's love is that acceptance that then moves the person to become that person whom God created. . .sometimes even with a shamrock
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Saturday, March 13, 2010
We had a death in the congregation yesterday--Carolyn Blight.
With a young congregation averaging about 40 plus baptisms a year, deaths are much more uncommon--between 6-10 a year. When they come, it jolts us as a family of believers.
You may not know Carolyn. I suppose that's the danger of moving after retirement to live closer to your children who are in Charlotte. Another danger is that you lose your community when you move that late in life and, in many ways, your sense of identity.
Carolyn and her husband, Ed, were both physicians in California. Ed was a urologist and Carolyn often worked in the E.R. They were very active not only in the healing ministry (which both really saw as their calling) but also in their church. Both of these calling came together as they developed and organized medical teams going to Albania. These teams were less about going into the field to do medicine and more about identifying, empowering and training Albanian physicians. Following the fall of communism, the Blights and their ministry were able to enter in and make significant medical advances in a world that was truly third world in their medical practices.
Why Albania? Certainly because of the medical need but also because of the religious need. The Albanians today grew up with no church understanding, experience or belief. It was really a blank canvas. So as the Blights helped with the medical education, they made sure the doctors with whom they trained knew in whose name they came.
To those who met Carolyn, she was that older lady who came to Bible Studies with her husband and could run circles around anyone in the room with a mental acuity, biblical knowledge and deep faith. She never flaunted her education or experience so you probably heard her and wondered, "Who is that woman?"
You had no idea in whose presence you sat. . .but God did and now, with arms wide open, is saying the words Carolyn waited a lifetime to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant. . .well done!"
With a young congregation averaging about 40 plus baptisms a year, deaths are much more uncommon--between 6-10 a year. When they come, it jolts us as a family of believers.
You may not know Carolyn. I suppose that's the danger of moving after retirement to live closer to your children who are in Charlotte. Another danger is that you lose your community when you move that late in life and, in many ways, your sense of identity.
Carolyn and her husband, Ed, were both physicians in California. Ed was a urologist and Carolyn often worked in the E.R. They were very active not only in the healing ministry (which both really saw as their calling) but also in their church. Both of these calling came together as they developed and organized medical teams going to Albania. These teams were less about going into the field to do medicine and more about identifying, empowering and training Albanian physicians. Following the fall of communism, the Blights and their ministry were able to enter in and make significant medical advances in a world that was truly third world in their medical practices.
Why Albania? Certainly because of the medical need but also because of the religious need. The Albanians today grew up with no church understanding, experience or belief. It was really a blank canvas. So as the Blights helped with the medical education, they made sure the doctors with whom they trained knew in whose name they came.
To those who met Carolyn, she was that older lady who came to Bible Studies with her husband and could run circles around anyone in the room with a mental acuity, biblical knowledge and deep faith. She never flaunted her education or experience so you probably heard her and wondered, "Who is that woman?"
You had no idea in whose presence you sat. . .but God did and now, with arms wide open, is saying the words Carolyn waited a lifetime to hear, "Well done, good and faithful servant. . .well done!"
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Last Saturday, Nathan and I spent most of the day sorting golf equipment. Our garage looks like a Golf Galaxy! People have been donating used equipment for the past month and finally this past Saturday it was not cold or raining and we could sift through it all.
The equipment is not for us, of course (though some of the sets were better than mine!) Nathan and I want to form a golf team at McClintock Middle School so they can compete in the fall against other schools. As we've been collecting equipment, the school has been collecting names of interested students. We have over 40 on our list.
At the end of the day on Saturday, we had 16 complete sets of clubs with beautiful, light-weight carrying bags (thanks, Billy!). We also have a dozen used golf shoes freshly back from the shoe-shine shop.
Golf starts next Tuesday, March 16. We don't know how many of those 40 will show up, but we should be ready. We will go to Charles T Myers twice a week where they will provide lessons every Tuesday and allow us to play on Thursday.
What we need are:
1. Drivers who are willing to transport kids either on a Tuesday or Thursday once every two weeks. We pick them up at the school at 3:45 and return them at 6:00.
2. Two sets of left handed clubs
Can you help?
This is far more than learning how to swing a golf club. (Though the students don't know that). We will be teaching integrity, sportsmanship, patience, discipline and character. After all, it is the greatest game ever played!
The equipment is not for us, of course (though some of the sets were better than mine!) Nathan and I want to form a golf team at McClintock Middle School so they can compete in the fall against other schools. As we've been collecting equipment, the school has been collecting names of interested students. We have over 40 on our list.
At the end of the day on Saturday, we had 16 complete sets of clubs with beautiful, light-weight carrying bags (thanks, Billy!). We also have a dozen used golf shoes freshly back from the shoe-shine shop.
Golf starts next Tuesday, March 16. We don't know how many of those 40 will show up, but we should be ready. We will go to Charles T Myers twice a week where they will provide lessons every Tuesday and allow us to play on Thursday.
What we need are:
1. Drivers who are willing to transport kids either on a Tuesday or Thursday once every two weeks. We pick them up at the school at 3:45 and return them at 6:00.
2. Two sets of left handed clubs
Can you help?
This is far more than learning how to swing a golf club. (Though the students don't know that). We will be teaching integrity, sportsmanship, patience, discipline and character. After all, it is the greatest game ever played!
Friday, March 5, 2010
Friday, March 5, 2010
Fist, a quick response to Lynn's comment. I have read the Shack and if you would like to talk about this more, let's do it via e-mail. suskovic@christelca.org
Gretchen and I are headed up to App State today. Hannah (freshman) is going on a mission trip to Mississippi with the Lutheran Campus Ministry. We are going to take her out to lunch, get her packed and send her off. App is teaming up with Chapel Hill on this mission trip. There will be probably a half a dozen kids from Christ Lutheran between the two schools on the trip. With many choices before her, I'm glad she is going on a mission trip rather than a road trip to Daytona Beach!
I never did that for a spring break during college, did you? As I've been seeing college now through her eyes rather than through my own experience 28 years ago, I see a big change. Gone are the protests against nuclear weapons and Apartheid. No longer is there a cry to save the whales and the rain forests. It has been replaced with service that goes beyond simple rhetoric and signing petitions. They are more interested in authentic living than talking a good line. There seems to be a depth or maturity that includes hands on involvement. While I'm sure there are plenty who will be living in a bottle at night and sunbathing on the beach by day this spring break, the kids I've seen go through our Youth Program at CLC seem to be looking for more out of life than personal pleasures.
It seems back in my college days, we were going to change the world by signing petitions and writing our senators. Today, they are still idealic enough to want to change the world--but rather than demand others to do it, they would rather get their own hands dirty and make a difference.
Twenty eight years later, I think they have it right.
Gretchen and I are headed up to App State today. Hannah (freshman) is going on a mission trip to Mississippi with the Lutheran Campus Ministry. We are going to take her out to lunch, get her packed and send her off. App is teaming up with Chapel Hill on this mission trip. There will be probably a half a dozen kids from Christ Lutheran between the two schools on the trip. With many choices before her, I'm glad she is going on a mission trip rather than a road trip to Daytona Beach!
I never did that for a spring break during college, did you? As I've been seeing college now through her eyes rather than through my own experience 28 years ago, I see a big change. Gone are the protests against nuclear weapons and Apartheid. No longer is there a cry to save the whales and the rain forests. It has been replaced with service that goes beyond simple rhetoric and signing petitions. They are more interested in authentic living than talking a good line. There seems to be a depth or maturity that includes hands on involvement. While I'm sure there are plenty who will be living in a bottle at night and sunbathing on the beach by day this spring break, the kids I've seen go through our Youth Program at CLC seem to be looking for more out of life than personal pleasures.
It seems back in my college days, we were going to change the world by signing petitions and writing our senators. Today, they are still idealic enough to want to change the world--but rather than demand others to do it, they would rather get their own hands dirty and make a difference.
Twenty eight years later, I think they have it right.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Thanks for all the great comments on last blog. One comment needs a response--if you haven't figured out the pattern, yet, I try to post a blog twice a week on Tuesday and Fridays.
I'm going to diverge for just a moment from the Prodigal Son (I have to leave something for Friday's Blog). Instead, I wanted to express a word of gratitude for our Music Director, Mark Glaeser. As of yesterday, March 1, Mark has served Christ Lutheran for (drum roll, please!) TWENTY YEARS!
I have had the pleasure of working with him for nearly twelve years and I am in constant awe that he remains focused, fresh, committed and relevant to the Gospel. While most pastors will tell you of the ongoing battles they have with those wacky musicians in their churches, our relationship is not just harmonious but complimentary. His ease of flowing between traditional and contemporary is highly unique, reminding us that the Gospel cannot be limited to one particular style. His emphasis on the words that matter have made me pay attention to the message and not just the tune a song conveys. His attention to the entire worship service reveals a heart that is not merely focused on musical performance but that the Word is heard and people come to faith. And his keen sense of ministry beyond the Music Department acknowledges that what we do here day after day, year after year is not about one individual but echoes the words in John's Gospel, "We want to see Jesus."
Thank you, Mark, for our shared ministry, for being one of my trusted confidants, and for our partnership in fulfilling that Great Commission--"into all the world. . ."
"Well done, good and faithful servant. . .well done!"
I'm going to diverge for just a moment from the Prodigal Son (I have to leave something for Friday's Blog). Instead, I wanted to express a word of gratitude for our Music Director, Mark Glaeser. As of yesterday, March 1, Mark has served Christ Lutheran for (drum roll, please!) TWENTY YEARS!
I have had the pleasure of working with him for nearly twelve years and I am in constant awe that he remains focused, fresh, committed and relevant to the Gospel. While most pastors will tell you of the ongoing battles they have with those wacky musicians in their churches, our relationship is not just harmonious but complimentary. His ease of flowing between traditional and contemporary is highly unique, reminding us that the Gospel cannot be limited to one particular style. His emphasis on the words that matter have made me pay attention to the message and not just the tune a song conveys. His attention to the entire worship service reveals a heart that is not merely focused on musical performance but that the Word is heard and people come to faith. And his keen sense of ministry beyond the Music Department acknowledges that what we do here day after day, year after year is not about one individual but echoes the words in John's Gospel, "We want to see Jesus."
Thank you, Mark, for our shared ministry, for being one of my trusted confidants, and for our partnership in fulfilling that Great Commission--"into all the world. . ."
"Well done, good and faithful servant. . .well done!"
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Finally! I get some feedback on a blog! I thought I was all alone out there in cyberspace.
Interesting that all those comments had nothing to do with Christ Lutheran or the Bible or the sermon but with a high profile media person whose confession was heard by millions. It's only appropriate, then, that this coming Sunday we turn our attention to another high profile confession.
While the Prodigal Son's confession to his father was intensely personal, I suspect that more people throughout the ages are familiar with his fall from grace than with Tiger's. Was it sincere or did he play on the kind heart of his father? Did he expect any consequences or did he assume he would be received with open arms? Would others rejoice with him or would they stand off to the side with crossed arms like the elder brother and pick it apart word by word?
This Sunday we are going to look at the lost art of confession. From David writing, "Against you and you only have I sinned and done that which is evil in your sight," to the Prodigal Son, "I have sinned again you and heaven. I am not worthy to be called your son," confession has been at the heart of our Christian faith. As I craft the sermon on Sunday, I'm wondering if that heart has been removed. I fear that we have become the people whom Jeremiah 6:15 describes, "They did not even know how to blush."
Interesting that all those comments had nothing to do with Christ Lutheran or the Bible or the sermon but with a high profile media person whose confession was heard by millions. It's only appropriate, then, that this coming Sunday we turn our attention to another high profile confession.
While the Prodigal Son's confession to his father was intensely personal, I suspect that more people throughout the ages are familiar with his fall from grace than with Tiger's. Was it sincere or did he play on the kind heart of his father? Did he expect any consequences or did he assume he would be received with open arms? Would others rejoice with him or would they stand off to the side with crossed arms like the elder brother and pick it apart word by word?
This Sunday we are going to look at the lost art of confession. From David writing, "Against you and you only have I sinned and done that which is evil in your sight," to the Prodigal Son, "I have sinned again you and heaven. I am not worthy to be called your son," confession has been at the heart of our Christian faith. As I craft the sermon on Sunday, I'm wondering if that heart has been removed. I fear that we have become the people whom Jeremiah 6:15 describes, "They did not even know how to blush."
Friday, February 19, 2010
Friday, February 19, 2010
I just finished watching Tiger Woods' public statement.
Before the pundits and sports announcers give their opinions, before Jay Leno and David Letterman take their jabs, and before I discuss this with anyone else, let me tell you what I thought.
Bravo, Tiger!
As the father of a son who is an avid golfer and who has written probably a half a dozen book reports and prompts on Tiger, I was deeply disappointed by the fall of my son's idol. We had several talks about it. Nathan kind of wrote Tiger off.
I recorded Tiger's apology for Nathan to see. I thought it was well done. It was from the heart, full of remorse, detailed enough to take full responsibility yet did not reveal the unnecessary details. He correctly shielded the details of his family matters from the press. They (we) don't need to know them. But he did specifically and repeatedly talk about his own failures and asked for forgiveness. It was not about golf. It was about rebuilding his life as a man of integrity.
Tiger taught Nathan much about the love of golf. Today he taught him an even better lesson--how to be a man who takes responsibility for his faults, protects his family and corrects the wrongs in his life.
Well done, Tiger.
Before the pundits and sports announcers give their opinions, before Jay Leno and David Letterman take their jabs, and before I discuss this with anyone else, let me tell you what I thought.
Bravo, Tiger!
As the father of a son who is an avid golfer and who has written probably a half a dozen book reports and prompts on Tiger, I was deeply disappointed by the fall of my son's idol. We had several talks about it. Nathan kind of wrote Tiger off.
I recorded Tiger's apology for Nathan to see. I thought it was well done. It was from the heart, full of remorse, detailed enough to take full responsibility yet did not reveal the unnecessary details. He correctly shielded the details of his family matters from the press. They (we) don't need to know them. But he did specifically and repeatedly talk about his own failures and asked for forgiveness. It was not about golf. It was about rebuilding his life as a man of integrity.
Tiger taught Nathan much about the love of golf. Today he taught him an even better lesson--how to be a man who takes responsibility for his faults, protects his family and corrects the wrongs in his life.
Well done, Tiger.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
A quick request.
I'm having more and more conversations with people who have lost jobs than ever before. I don't know how to hook up those look for work and those looking for employees effectively. I don't want to turn the newsletter into a help wanted classified. And if I put together something on our web site, I am somehow endorsing either the employee or employer, no matter how many legal disclaimers I add.
I've got two families that need jobs, not hand-outs. Probably something entry level such as an office assistant, receptionist, or secretary. I'm not looking for a guarantee--only an opportunity for her to apply and then get it or not on her own merit.
Have anything? Contact me at my e-mail, suskovic@christelca.org. If we are a family of believers, at least we can point in the right direction those who are trying to help themselves. I'll keep everything confidential.
Thanks. . .
I'm having more and more conversations with people who have lost jobs than ever before. I don't know how to hook up those look for work and those looking for employees effectively. I don't want to turn the newsletter into a help wanted classified. And if I put together something on our web site, I am somehow endorsing either the employee or employer, no matter how many legal disclaimers I add.
I've got two families that need jobs, not hand-outs. Probably something entry level such as an office assistant, receptionist, or secretary. I'm not looking for a guarantee--only an opportunity for her to apply and then get it or not on her own merit.
Have anything? Contact me at my e-mail, suskovic@christelca.org. If we are a family of believers, at least we can point in the right direction those who are trying to help themselves. I'll keep everything confidential.
Thanks. . .
Friday, February 12, 2010
Friday, February 12, 2010
The Prodigal Son.
It's one of Jesus' most famous parables. As you read that story, with whom do you identify? The rebellious, younger son who turned his back on his family only to crash and burn? The elder, responsible son who did everything right and lives with resentment because he is never fully appreciated? The father, who tries to make peace by welcoming the wayward son while acknowleding the responsible one?
I want to encourage you in the next week to pick up Henri Nouwen's book, The Return of the Prodigal. We have it in our bookstore or go to Amazon. Beginning with the first Sunday of Lent, February 21, we will use this book for the next six weeks as our focal point in worship.
Or better yet, find a couple of friends to gather over coffee regularly for the next six weeks to talk through this book. I believe you will be amazed to discover that this parable is like a window, reflecting our own lives in each of the three characters of this parable.
One person said, "I read a lot of books but the Bible is the only book that reads me." So true. And no where is that more evident than in this revealing parable.
It's one of Jesus' most famous parables. As you read that story, with whom do you identify? The rebellious, younger son who turned his back on his family only to crash and burn? The elder, responsible son who did everything right and lives with resentment because he is never fully appreciated? The father, who tries to make peace by welcoming the wayward son while acknowleding the responsible one?
I want to encourage you in the next week to pick up Henri Nouwen's book, The Return of the Prodigal. We have it in our bookstore or go to Amazon. Beginning with the first Sunday of Lent, February 21, we will use this book for the next six weeks as our focal point in worship.
Or better yet, find a couple of friends to gather over coffee regularly for the next six weeks to talk through this book. I believe you will be amazed to discover that this parable is like a window, reflecting our own lives in each of the three characters of this parable.
One person said, "I read a lot of books but the Bible is the only book that reads me." So true. And no where is that more evident than in this revealing parable.
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