An Approach to a Season of Interim

An extra season has been plucked down in the calendar of my local church:  Interim Interval.  After the minister’s resignation, we wait for a new preacher.  Yet this season should be analogous to the liturgical season of Advent.  For some Interim involves mournfulness over a sense of loss attached to people.  Yet Advent prompts Christians to get in touch with our need for a Savior.  Interim may include fatigue over the uncertainty of the future.  Advent is a season of preparation for the future by contemplating the longing of the Jews for a Messiah.  Interim can surface expressions that things aren’t the way they used to be.  Advent prompts focus on the hope of Christ’s coming.  Interim may realize noticeable empty seats on Sunday morning and fewer parishioners available for outreach.  Advent motivates believers to reach out to share life and hope with people in need.

My goal is to consider this present Interim as an extra Advent.  Sure, my approach is serious, yet I am seeking joy as I get ready for a transforming celebration, not of the birth, but the life of Jesus.   As I prepare and wait for the coming of new leadership, this is a prime time to focus on the attributes of God and in my relationship to Him.  I yearn to enter into a long expectation for what God is going to do.  I am waiting for newness and freshness, even though I am a ‘senior.’  For a practical application, I may include an invitation to someone to attend a fellowship group, or offer a spontaneous offer to share Sunday lunch.

An Advent attitude is a different perspective.  Yet, consider that for many Africans, a December Advent does not come at the beginning of winter, but at the onset of their rainy season - quite different than the one I am familiar with.  May showers of blessings fall on my Advent attitude.

Finally, I’ll be singing my favorite Advent hymn in the shower.

"Lo, He Comes With Clouds Descending," by Charles Wesley

Prayers Inspired by 1st John

Heavenly Father, who is from the beginning and gives eternal life, help us to continue to find You, to discover truth in Your word and to engage in profound fellowship with You and Your people.  Continue to send us very clear messages which aid us in walking in the light, so that our joy may be made complete.  We ask in the name of Jesus, who purifies us from all sin.  Amen.

O Lord Jesus Christ, our righteous advocate, may we know You dearly and abide in You closely to have hearts that effectively and practically love our brothers and sisters.  May darkness pass away from our lives for Your true light is already shining.  Help us to grow in obedience and walk, without stumbling, in the same ways in which You walked, so that the love of God is perfected where we live, move and have our being.We pray in your holy name.                                                                                   Amen

Gracious God, who sent your only Son into the world that we might live through Jesus, dwell in me and allow me to clearly hear your voice.  I confess that Jesus Christ has come in the flesh.  Therefore, perfect your love in me.  Remove fear from my emotions, for perfect love drives out all fear.  Guide my belief into the realness of your truth and love, so that I may overcome the world and love others.  I ask in the name of the Savior of the world, Jesus.                                                                                  Amen

Lord Jesus, prophet, priest, and king, be our guide as we enter our new study of Acts and into a new year. May we grow into being more like the Apostles who after experiencing the power of the Ascension took what Christ was and did before them to become more joyous followers. Help us to have this illuminated vision that you are enthroned at the right hand of the Father. During this new year give us joy, peace, patience, humility, authority, inner tranquility, and above all the power of the Holy Spirit so that we will be Your witnesses in Florida, Rocky Mount, and to the ends of the earth. In the name of Jesus.                                                                                                       Amen                                                                                                                                      

Dear Lord, whose rules are true and righteous altogether, impress upon our hearts the severe consequences of wickedness that Judas experienced. Guide our schedules and priorities so that we may join together to be constantly in prayer with believers. May the fruit of our adoration, confession, thanksgiving, and supplication aid in our understanding of the power of your resurrection. Lead us to have the purity of Matthias so that we may be effective leaders. Raise up people like Matthias to serve in our local government, so that all citizens may prosper. We ask in the name of Jesus who said, “Blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God.”                                       Amen.

 

Father God, who gave Jesus the power to create miracles, wonders, and signs, pour out your Spirit on us so that we may more deeply hear Scriptural truth in words that we clearly understand. May our tongues rejoice and be used by the Spirit as we declare Your wonders with words of hope that are deeply understood by members of a corrupt generation. May Your words, not ours, lead to repentance. In the name of Jesus, both our Lord and Messiah.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   Amen.

Lord Jesus, the Holy and Righteous One who is the source of life, bring healing into our lives in areas where we are afflicted with illness or weakness. May our bodies become strong. As we walk as healed individuals, give us appropriate words and actions of praise. Create awe and astonishment in our families, church, and city after people observe what has happened to us. Use us to be contemporary Peters and Johns by making us agents of physical and emotional healing to those who are hurt in our spheres of influence so that seasons of refreshment may come from the presence of the Lord. We ask this in the name of Jesus of Nazareth.                                                                                                Amen.

 

Lord Jesus, the Holy and Righteous One, deliver us from acting in ignorance in the manner that Israelites who witnessed a miracle did. Strengthen us for denying You is a serious offense. Accept our repentance as we turn back. Increase our faith in your name. Open our ears as we listen to everything You tell us through Scripture so that seasons of refreshing may come from Your presence in our lives, church, and this class. We make these petitions in your name for you are the source of life.                                                                                                                                                     Amen.

 

 

 

A Gift of Rest

After a week of late afternoon thundershowers resulting in travel over puddled roads, a sunny Sunday seemed like the time for a needed car wash.  As I pulled inside, two texts beeped on my phone.  This was perfect timing in the busy-ness of life as I had an extra quiet moment to read, reflect and to care. Suddenly open to the concerns of a friend, I promised to hold the situation up in prayer at church.  There, I became mindful of God’s gift to us during the Gospel reading.

“Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”  (Matthew 11)

Handel included this in his oratorio “Messiah” to keep listeners mindful that those who trust in Jesus Christ find peace and rest. A familiar verse, in a new crisis, made me mindful in further understanding the generous, vast love of Christ for us; we were made for infinite bliss and companionship with God.  Desiring that a friend experience those benefits, I wrote:  “Some of my most weary days, during which I carried heavy burdens, have been while caregiving in a hospital.  Although your text is full of a positive spirit and hope, undoubtedly you are experiencing a plethora of emotions and thoughts.  May the gentleness of Christ give you rest today.  I have just felt His gentleness in the sequence of your message and the reading of these ancient, powerful words.  For me, they are as needed, cleansing and refreshing as the car wash.  May they richly bless you and your husband.”

Money Laundering

A decision to wash pillows at a Laundromat required me to leave my suburban Atlanta community where such businesses have become nonexistent in this new century.  I drove seven miles to Norcross, a district now populated by working class Mexicans, where laundries remain in strip malls.  On Saturday morning I arrived before the opening at 7:00 and found the business to be open and uncrowded.  I loaded my pillows, plus some gym clothes, in their largest commercial washer and then left in order to treat myself to breakfast.  When I returned, just before 8:00, the laundry was full of Mexican men, plus one American.  I chose a dryer next to him, a good choice for he was open to conversing. As I stood surrounded by a culture different from my own,  he explained his preference for this laundry, and concluded:  “The Mexicans here are quiet.”  Indeed they were.  The chugging of the washers, and the rhythmic thuds of clothes tumbling in the dryers, was more audible than conversation.   I was certain that I was among hard working men, who had no time for chores during the week, yet who were working on them early on a weekend morning.

As I pulled my gym clothes from the dryer, I put them into a rolling basket.  I noticed a dollar neatly folded on top of the wire.  SuddenIy, I felt the boyhood joy of finding a stray dollar on the street.  Yet there were far too many men present to determine whose pocket the bills had escaped from.  So I tossed the wet cash into my laundry basket and proceeded with my tasks.  Once home, I unfolded the still damp money, full of the fragrance of Tide, and discovered that I had collected $27.  There was no joy at that moment.   I realized that I was in possession of funds lost by an unknown hard-working, quiet man.  I did not need that money; the Mexican probably did.

I resolved my dilemma by contributing $27 to World Vision’s ministry: “ Food, Clothing and Basics in the USA.”   While not a major philanthropic gift, the man’s hard earned funds will serve God’s work in a community of poverty, similar to Norcross.  Perhaps I have sent ‘the widow’s mite’ into an impoverished  neighborhood.   Hopefully a person of need will be blessed by new clothing which they will show pride in while they clean it in another launderette.

My story is not intended to be about me, nor my gift.  Yet my musing is prologue for my prayer request.  Please join me in interceding for this man.  I trust that Paul’s promise to the Philippians will be realized in the person’s life.  May he learn to be more careful with his cash in the future.  May God bless him by miraculously restoring his lost funds.   May his labors bear fruit for him and his family; his ‘gift’ bring hope to another community.

"And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of His glory in Christ Jesus.  (Philippians 4:19)

Perhaps cleanliness is next to Godliness after all.  A simple trip to a Laundromat, an excursion into another culture, set my mind ablaze with thoughts and concerns. I trusted that I had made a proper decision as I laid my head to rest on my clean pillow that night. 

Prayers for Servants Who Care

For Caregivers

Blessed Lord, who gives grace to the humble, remember those who care for the elderly that the dread and exhaustion of their days will be relieved.  Give help, renewal and refreshment as they tackle multiple tasks and emotions, so that they may be exalted in due time and realize that You care for caregivers and parents.   We pray in the name of Jesus, who commanded a storm to be quiet, and it was.  Amen.

For Servants & Victims of Abusive Trafficking

O Christ, who suffered while on Earth, prepare our hearts to better understand how that suffering and your grace can ease the pain of innocent children within our spheres of influence.  Enable us to have new perspectives and actions in order that those who today are trapped as abuse victims may be able to freely walk in your light and be born anew.   We pray in the name of Jesus, who set the oppressed free.  Amen.

Forgiveness is a Powerful Response with Mercy

At the center of my Christmas wreath is placed a sweetgrass basket, a souvenir from a journey to Charleston, South Carolina.  It seems a good fit for my neighborhood, Charleston Bay, a series of row townhomes with pastel colors.  2015’s most moving news story was that of the senseless murder of Christians in that city.  Families who looked danger, oppression & degradation directly in the eye responded with mercy.  Their words of forgiveness for the killer saved a beautiful city from violence, fire, and crime.  These actions were a living epistle of the healing power of forgiveness.  This holiday is the birthday of Jesus Christ who taught about mercy.  My wreath is in honor of those in Charleston who taught a watching world of the great power of Christ’s message of forgiving.  As the traditional basket is at the center of my wreath, a response of mercy was at the center of their faith.  May their shining example be a part of our celebration of Jesus’ birth.

Discussions on Politics, Faith, and Race

In 2008, at Atlanta's Carter Center, author Jim Wallis and President Jimmy Carter led a panel discussion.  Seated on the right side of the front row is Rosalyn Carter.  The bald man with glasses to her left is Knox Porter.  This was a memorable evening, both in content and being close to people of conviction.

Sojourners: Continuing the Conversation on Race

In 2015, Jim Wallis returned to speak at a program hosted by The Community Foundation for Greater Atlanta.  The foundation's president, Alicia Philipp, wrote a brief article on the event.  I am both honored and humbled that Ms. Philipp quoted me in an essay which appears in Sojourners Magazine.



A Small Leap of Faith Restored My Vision

A devotion on Psalm 80.

Honestly, at the beginning of December I feel urgency over much of what is planned for the month.  The Psalmist has urgency in his voice as he petitions:  “Restore us, O LORD God of hosts; show the light of your countenance, and we shall be saved.”

 On a July Saturday night, I felt urgency when I had no cable TV.  After calling an 800 number, I learned the operator was in the Philippines.  A worker, half a world away, was adjusting my cable box, thus I was connected with one who was restoring my picture.  In the ten minutes the box slowly uploaded we talked.  I asked how he was after a typhoon which had cut through his country the week before.  He then gave a lengthy monologue about how his family had been severely devastated by a previous storm, Typhoon Haiyan, in 2013.  I listened as a cheerful worker relayed a story of initial sadness, then restoration.  I shared that I had given a small donation to World Vision,  an international organization giving disaster relief to Filipinos.  Before my cable was reconnected, we were also connected in a significant way.  I was thanked for my gift, and my heart was touched when he said: “I will consider that your donation was used to help my family.”

Undoubtedly typhoon victims, with ‘bowls of tears to drink.’ voiced urgency similar to the Psalmist:  “Stir up your strength and come to help us.”  My response to a remote crisis was a leap of faith.  In Advent, I consider that Jesus came to ‘give us life.’   After the typhoon, my check was given in faith that it would allow a new advent as Christ’s life was extended to hungry, destitute victims.  In faith, the check was mailed in order to help unseen people.  My phone call not only connected my TV, but restored the picture I had of God’s work in a needy world.  In a sense, my leap of faith transferred from the unseen, to the seen as I heard a first hand account of the positive effects of disaster relief restoring families.

As we give, may we do so in leaps of faith, understanding that what is given in God’s name has the power to strengthen and restore.

Always remember . . .

During a recent winter, I learned that a high school classmate had sufferd a serious stroke. Although I had not seen him since graduation, positive memories propelled me to make a post on his Caring Bridge website. As I pondered, searching for words of hope and encouragement, this memory came to mind.

Bradley’s Store, the tiny building across from Senior High, was crowded with summer school students. In line in front of me, you paid for your soda and snack, and immediately exited with your food still on the counter. Mrs. Bradley called you back. Any embarrassment was quickly covered by your full confidence and magnificent grin as you exclaimed: “God almighty!” Mrs. Bradley immediately responded, in a voice with a wonderful mix of firmness and lovingkindness: “Always remember that He is all mighty.” Her brief declaration was strong and powerful; easier to remember than countless sermons. Those seven words have returned to my thinking numerous times in the ensuing years to encourage me during perplexing moments of doubt and crisis. They return this day, in light of your current situation which remains on my mind and in my heart. I pray and trust that you will indeed know the MIGHT of God in this season. I am encouraged to read that you are putting your trust in Him. May He be your rock, stronghold and refuge. I join many voices here full of hope that goodness will surround you. May you know the steadfast love of God as you heal and make progress.

Through the ensuing summer, my classmate exercised faith and great determination to make great progress in mobility. Reading of the results was encouraging; learning in the fall of a second stroke followed by his death was burdensome. Yet I did trust that he did experience the might of God in his circumstances.

Standing Together: sharing grace and love

“ ...he is like a refiner’s fire ...; he will sit as a refiner and purifier of silver, and he will purify the descendants of Levi and refine them like gold and silver...” – Malachi 3: 2-3

"...the crooked shall be made straight, and the rough ways made smooth.” – Luke 3:5

My dedication to simple living backfired the day Atlanta’s temperature soared to 106 degrees, when the air conditioning in my aging sedan shut down. Having received a debit card as a gift, I headed to Aldi grocery. At check out I was satisfied looking at the conveyor belt full of low-priced bargains. My mood quickly changed when I encountered the unexpected, learning that the card was actually credit, not accepted at that store. My predicament was not pleasing to the cashier, nor to the customers in line behind me. I sorted through the groceries in order to pay for as many items as I could with cash; then I placed them in the “refiner’s fire” of an auto that would not cool. A variety of thoughts ran through my mind, and gratitude was not part of the mix. Then, as I recalled my experience working with a Standing Together team, I realized I had much to be thankful for, including the gift of the card. Standing Together is a family of volunteers committed to helping a person make the leap from homelessness to self- sufficiency. Our team had been working recently with a participant who often speaks of being grateful for the goodness in her life. After my Aldi adventure I recalled her example and the inspiration she has been to me. Paul writes to the Philippians that believers should share God’s grace and overflowing love with one another. Paul’s words describe my experience in the Standing Together team, especially the lessons in gratitude learned from our participant. Her words have helped me refine and purify my attitudes and thoughts, helping me smooth the rough edges of my character and straighten the crooked elements of my perceptions. Inspired by her, I moved one step closer to being pure and blameless. Advent anticipates the coming of Christ, who will bring righteousness and purity into the world. I am grateful to God for beginning that good work in my world, and to my new friend for voicing words that move that work closer to completion.

FOREVER

“Your house and your kingdom shall be made sure forever before me; your throne shall be established forever.” 2 Samuel 7:16

Over the last 20 years of my journey I have become increasing thankful for my good friend, Cliff. We enjoy taking in an occasional movie together. Two of his all time favorites are Field of Dreams and The Wizard of Oz: forever films. Each time we select a new show, I hope that our choice will be the next cinematic masterpiece; one with greatness which will truly stand the test of time. Inside the theater, as each trailer concludes, he whispers a number to me, rating the preview. I have come to enjoy playing along, yet we rarely rate a coming attraction as a ten, lacking anticipation that a new forever film is coming to a theater near us.

The lessons for Advent IV give previews of a significant coming attraction. 2 Samuel records the Lord’s promise to make a great name of David, ‘like the great names of the earth.’ The psalmist writing Psalm 89 comments on that oath, making repeated use of the word ‘forever,’ Gabriel declares hope to Mary in Luke 1 that Jesus Christ will be given David’s throne to reign ‘forever’: “of his kingdom there will be no end.” Paul, in his conclusion of Romans, reviews the story by stating that a mystery kept secret for long ages has been revealed. ‘Forever’ is the final word of his letter.

Contemporary stories can disappoint. As humans on a quest, we seek permanence, constancy, quality and greatness in our lives. In spite of our anticipation, our world too often does not deliver. Yet Scripture reminds us that gifts from God – love, faithfulness, strength, rest, protection - are indeed forever, Our Advent story powerfully reveals that ‘nothing will be impossible with God.’ It points us forward, with hope and anticipation of the greatness surrounding the gift of Christmas Day, Jesus Christ. Understanding that His life, presence and provisions are forever strengthens our journey, as we live through festival days, but more importantly the ordinary days which follow.

Comment for a hotel manager on his pathetic display of the American flag

Red, white and blue are the colors of the flag, not pink, eggshell, and purple as on the torn emblem disgracefully flying above Homewood Suites. Your inn is appealing due to the cacophony of languages heard at breakfast; the varied hues of skin displayed by your guests. The world has journeyed to Orlando. At theme parks travelers encounter an abundance of creativity; positive themes of joy, laughter and great ideas. Your hotel offers order, comfort, plus outstanding service, amid beautiful surroundings. Innovations begun by great Americans, Walt Disney and Conrad Hilton, are still outstanding for they make positive contributions to society. Your community displays the best of the USA. Hopefully, all guests journey home with a more positive view of an America strengthened by people of vision, dreams and practicality. For these reasons our flag should fly proudly over your property, not as a worn, faded banner. When I return, I hope to see Old Glory replaced by a new Stars and Stripes.

Response from the General Manager

Thank you so much for your wonderful comments regarding the sad shape of Old Glory at the hotel. I am ashamed to admit that I let them get in such sad condition.

Acting on your comments we immediately changed all of our flags and I can guarantee you we will not let them go that far in the future.

Sincerely,

Tony Keathley
General Manager
Homewood Suites Lake Buena Vista

Say to those with fearful hearts, be strong, do not fear

What’s there to fear in a trip to New Orleans? Possible exposure to mold or fireants, being stretched by doing new handyman tasks, or working in a community where we could not walk to the convenience store alone came to mind before leaving. Isaiah speaks to those who have weak hands and feeble knees in situations where movement out of comfort zones is highly beneficial.

Our team was placing finishing touches on a home which the owners would very soon return to. I was immersed in renewing metal by scraping off rust and applying a fresh coat of Rustoleum when a family member came by to look. I stopped my task to greet him, relate and listen. He was ecstatic over all he saw and declared: “If anyone does not believe there is a God, all they have to do is come and see this place.” This man proclaimed and rejoiced in the same spirit as Mary does in the traditional Canticle read during Advent.

“My soul magnifies the Lord,
and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior,
for He has regarded the low estate of His handmaiden.”

Both Mary and the New Orleans resident saw the greatness of God and evidence that He has looked upon lowly servants. Two people from different generations witnessed God’s mercy and strength to lift up lowly people.

Isaiah prophesies of the positive effects Christ will bring to the world. Joy and gladness; streams in the deserts are images of the benefits for followers of Jesus. Yet these lovely Advent passages come to life after laboring on the Gulf Coast. I have yet to journey to the mountains of Lebanon, however I have spent time in an unmajestic New Orleans neighborhood which is beginning to rejoice and blossom. I returned home unaffected by mold or crime; fireants had not devastated me. Like Isaiah, I had seen the majesty of our God.

Isaiah 35: 1 – 10
Luke 1: 46 - 55

A Time to Hold On, A Time to Let Go

“The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom then shall I fear?”
Psalm 27:1

In midsummer heat, my neighbor sheared an azalea hedge. Suddenly the shrubs appeared eaten up, only to leave a distraction - an unsightly crown of brown twigs with no fair beauty to behold. What began as a good plan went awry causing mild sorrow. Faced with what appeared to be deadness, she assumed it was a time to let go, stating that the plants would be removed. I attempted to persuade her that this was a time to hold on by explaining that exposure to light would transform the brown into branches of green strength. I encouraged her to tarry and wait patiently until October before making a final decision. After a season of light, the bushes entered autumn with much evidence of new life. They had been sustained. Like the Psalmist, we could “see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”

Holding on to a garden, and the beauty it adds to the community, is of worth. So are plans for future growth in a family. Abraham, in Genesis 15, struggles with being childless and a vision for offspring. Possibly he is pondering his desires – to hold on or let go. Abraham is surrounded, literally and mentally, by darkness, terror, and fear. Into that despair, God interjects light through His object lesson of having Abraham look to the countless stars in order to number his descendents. A smoking fire pot and a flaming torch also light up the human need to hold on. Abraham believes, which is reckoned to him as righteousness.

Followers of God strive for more righteousness. What current distraction do you need to hold on to, believing light from God to improve the burden?

Moving Forward

“If I had known of the sign on the side of the moving truck, I never would have hired them,” exclaimed the octogenarian whom I helped move. Her comment was interesting for the movers were punctual, efficient, positive, and capable. They represented their sign well, which declared: “Faith Moves Mountains . . . We Move Families.”

The day before, I had encountered a mountain in the topography of my pilgrimage. A life changing obstacle suddenly was in my way. Much was on my mind, yet I deferred emotions so that this cross-town moved could be accomplished. The simple statement on the truck spoke volumes to me, for the reminder that faith moves mountains salved my open wounds and gave me encouragement that I would overcome.

Matthew provides two quotes of Jesus making this claim. Both are replies to a discourse. I am only required to have the faith of a seed. Christ used an image as did the moving company. It is one most can relate to for we understand that as a seed is small, so must the beginning of our faith be. Yet lost to our life is the fact that a mustard seed is an extremely tiny one. Christ was commenting on how little faith we may have, but was saying that only a small amount of faith will begin growth. “You can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there’ and it will be moved.” This image is easy to remember. The next comment is less visual for I must discipline myself to remember: “Nothing will be impossible for you.” Not some things, or selected situations, but ‘nothing’ is the claim of Christ. Inevitably I want to interject doubt into my situation. Faith may move other’s mountains, but mine seems destined to stay in plaice. Yet Christ states that I should exercise faith without the hindrance of doubt. Such solid faith is a discipline requiring effort. It also requires memory of God’s past provision. Contemplating how God intervened goodness in past circumstances in my experience, helps me again use faith as I encounter a new mountain.

Paul, in his epistle on love, reminds us of faith as well. Love and faith must be balanced. “If I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.” In his great treatise on the power of love, Paul gives a reminder that our ever abiding faith should be one which realizes that mountains can be moved.

I appreciate the witness of the moving truck. On a day of fear and uncertainty it allowed Jesus to speak to me. Suddenly the seriousness of my circumstance was bearable. For I moment I was living only in one chapter. The reminder that faith moved mountains helped me to see that a future chapter of my life will have provision. On a hot, humid summer day I continued the mundane task of packing boxes with a renewed fervency.

Matthew 17: 20; 21:21
I Corinthians 13: 2

A Faithful City

A devotion on Isaiah 2 and I Thessalonians 1

Surrounded by the majesty of the ocean, I looked to see the full picture of creation as I observed sharks lying on the shore. Once exalted, lofty, and proud in the sea, they lay humbly discarded on the beach with no more breath in their gills. Vultures descended from high above to the disintegrating fish. Slowly, bit by bit, the sharks were being eaten. Soon the sharks’ carcasses would be gone as the vultures clean the beach. I continued my walk, moving my attention from the grotesque scene, back to the peaceful succession of waves. My original purpose for walking the beach path was restored. Yet the paradox of viewing destruction, then majestic beauty, remained with me.
Isaiah speaks with similar paradox, criticizing the rebellion of humans who do not understand their sin; later with a compassionate vision, pointing towards cleansing and redemption. It is difficult to have a faithful city when arrogance, pride, loftiness and trusting in man cause destruction of our silver, gold, “chariots,” and “horses.” Isaiah prophesies of a day when humans will discard idols to moles and rats, as a shark is given up to vultures. As with observing the grandness of the sea after the shark’s demise, Isaiah looks to a day when the splendor of the Lord’s majesty will be the focus of humans. Jerusalem will again contain righteous people; it will be a faithful city.
Thessalonica becomes that faithful city. Isaiah paints a picture of coming judgment, made inevitable by human failure. Paul writes with joy to a city where people turned from idols to serve a living, true God. Isaiah rebukes arrogant pride; Paul affirms those who stand firm in the Lord. Isaiah prophesies of a day when humans will discard idols to rodents. Paul positively reinforced people were not tempted, but grew in faith and love. Isaiah envisions a majestic God; Paul depicts a God who can make our love increase while strengthening our hearts.
This provides motivation for me to identify and throw away my “horses” and “chariots.” This is not easy to begin, much less accomplish. Some are easy to put away; others I struggle with a desire to keep. Yet Isaiah prompts me to see cleansing of idols like the role of the vulture – the cleaner of the beach. To live as a citizen of a faithful city, I am motivated to increase worship by seeking with renewed fervor the splendor of the majesty of the Lord. Mindful of Christ’s words in Luke, I want to view myself as “a child of the resurrection.”
As Isaiah ends his critique with a compassionate vision of God’s intent for His children, I aim to walk forward, as on the beach, in the paths of the Lord. I aim to seek the splendor of His majesty while progressing through my quiet times and when entering corporate worship.

A Speech on Teaching

Well, I'd make a long speech, but . . . I don't speak any English!

Seriously, considering all the fine teachers at Collins Hill, I am very honored to be standing here. Upon his retirement, Andre Agassi said: "The greatest applause that any person will receive in their life is from their peers. To have them applaud you is the ultimate compliment." I thank you for that compliment. All I'll say is that I work very hard for our students. Yet one is supposed to work hard. That's nothing to boast about.

Clint Eastwood said of his Oscar for Unforgiven: "Take the work seriously, but don't take yourself seriously and you will do well for the rest of your life."

I take working with immigrant students very seriously. I like the challenge of working with downtrodden students in impossible situations. I like it when it is said: "We're not going to make Average Yearly Progress because of ESOL pupils!

I like the chance of standing in the midst of a student's linguistic darkness and shining the lamp of language and knowledge. I believe in presenting richness, as opposed to mediocrity; it is an excellent way to help pupils find and enjoy truth and excellence in life. I like the idea of helping students broaden their minds as they are introduced to the variety and richness of the world. I seek to extend the parameters of students’ thoughts and awareness to topics they would not encounter without schooling by engaging pupils in speaking language, reading words, thinking ideas and creating visions that they would not formulate without passing through my class.

I find satisfaction for knowledge is cyclical in my room. I learn from the students as they, hopefully, learn from me.

Building language and helping students gain diplomas, puts them on an equal footing with their peers in this society. I love the sense of justice in that.

I feel that my students from many nations have dignity, thus there is a spirit of respect for one another in my classroom.

I want all of my Eagles to soar!

As handsome as this trophy is - eventually it will tarnish and fade. Yet, the work of a teacher has longevity. There are many good teachers who never are nominated for teacher of the year. Yet we all do our jobs faithfully. Good teaching involves leading students to gain understanding of our subject matter. We also use our understanding to give counsel to teens. We are wise in our words and actions of instruction. There are days when we guide students to stay within the rules, and days when we are people of mercy. We cheer on the pupils of promise and encourage those who are weary. Students remember our words and actions. Last year I received an e-mail through Classmates.com - a troubled student I taught in 1980 took time to thank me. This means that all effective teachers are teachers of the year. The good news is that this is not just for 2006, but for years and years to come. Our lessons and deeds are not forgotten. A dedicated teacher has a posterity which will continue forever. It will not be blotted out. We are all teachers of many years to come.

I’d say more, but I have some papers to go and check!

Thank you very much.

A Garden in the City

A Devotion on Genesis 45: 1 – 15

Imagine a royal garden full of weeds: Joseph’s garden. A leader in a time of drought and climatic change, Joseph considered a very uncertain future and economic downturn. Fear was injected into society. Joseph endured each crisis without a loving, supportive family. No one sent flowers to ease his pain.

Hollywood might cast Joseph as a man who finally had a chance to even the score. Or he could be scripted to provide relief only to his father. He could write a check to provide food for all the brothers, and remain detached and alone in Pharaoh’s garden. Yet the Joseph of Genesis says: “Come, be with me.” He extends full forgiveness by offering first tears, then words, a plan for reunion, provision of basic necessities and finally an avenue of a relationship. Joseph and his family live out a famine in a newly tilled garden.

Joseph’s relationship with God was strong, seeing that the Lord was in charge, in spite of tumultuous events. Joseph had a vision that God was working out good for himself, society, and his estranged family, irregardless of what circumstances dictated. Even though he had suffered from brothers who had wrongly mistreated him, only to cover up misdeeds with lies, Joseph had the spiritual maturity to see the hand of God moving goodness into their lives. A person of vision, Joseph looked to see God and saw evidence of His work. Joseph was balanced in acting with forgiveness and speaking to give God the glory as he reached out to his brothers. He was bold to declare his understanding of God.

I compare the transgressions which Joseph compared to offenses received in my life. I am convicted, for my experiences trifle the pain Joseph felt. As a teen I wondered if I could forgive the same offenses Joseph did. As an adult I struggle to forgive small matters. To whom should I say these words: “Come, be with me?” Who do I need to listen to as they repeat these words to me? Joseph’s example is worthy of my reading and meditation.

Prayer for the Victims of Natural Disaster

My heavenly Father, turn a gracious ear to me and hear this prayer for the people of the Gulf Coast, Haiti, and Chile who have been afflicted after waters raged and the earth moved. Before you, I remember those who feel like broken pottery for they have known distress, sorrow, and grief. Free them from such negative emotions. Help them to seek you as their refuge and strength. Hear their cries for mercy when they call upon you for help. Let that help be without limits. May they not be forgotten. Let them know your safety and the greatness of your goodness. Remove their fears by allowing them to experience your grace. Enable afflicted people to abide under the shadow of the Almighty. Rescue them and bring them to honor. Continue to restore shriveled lives, families, and communities. Establish the work of the hands of all who journey into disaster areas so that they can effectively share your aid, joy, and loving kindness. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen

Musings on Mississippi

Sitting between ornate columns, wide Palladian windows, and under a grand chandelier, I worshipped in Christ Church, Cambridge, Massachusetts on Pentecost Sunday, 2006. This historic church, across the street from Harvard, has seen General George Washington as worshiper, collegian Theodore Roosevelt as Sunday School teacher, and Martin Luther King, Jr. as a speaker. That Pentecost Sunday I meditated on the oft repeated final prayer of the Eucharist: “And now, Father, send us out to do the work you have given us to do, to love and serve you as faithful witnesses of Christ our Lord." I considered the multiple ways God has answered that supplication for the educators, leaders, and people of contribution, who have prayed a similar petition in that sanctuary. With that in mind, I prayed the familiar words with new fervency. In the year since, the work I have been given to do has included completing my 30th year as an educator, the challenges of caring for the health needs of an aging parent, a course covering Steinbeck, and two service trips to the Gulf Coast.

Pentecost Sunday, 2007 I was at another Christ Church. Built on the foundation of the original building, the small sanctuary is an aluminum Quonset hut with few windows. Recent history was evident in the surroundings, for Hurricane Katrina sent a storm tide 30 feet deep over a building sitting in clear view of the Gulf of Mexico. There is much work to do here. Pentecost was the first time the original church had an empowered mission or purpose, thus it was a fitting weekend to serve. This was an occasion to celebrate the Spirit that Jesus sent, and use the gifts that this Spirit has given us in order to build up each other, the church, and society. It was a time to be led by a unifying Spirit to cross artificial boundaries of race and culture.

The service team I joined journeyed to Bay St. Louis, Mississippi for a time of rebuilding. In “The Bay”, there remains extensive rebuilding to be done. The team had four days of vigor, excitement, energy, movement, and fresh commitment. We opened hands which initially were eager, yet found them tired at day’s end. Our purpose was to fill our hands with good things. We were assembled together to practically share love. As children of God we endeavored to renew the face of neighborhoods. Our team saw that a community was tidied by the construction of a new tool shed. Exposed wood sides of other sheds were protected by paint. Foundation was prepared for another dwelling. Trees were staked so that a park could flourish with added greenery. Kitchen cabinets were hung in a home needing total interior restoration. Electrical wiring was improved which will shed light in a yard where thieves steal at night. In faith, these acts of love and goodness leave peace with residents.

We met people whose hearts have been filled with sorrow. Their experience has been full of suffering, yet they show that their suffering has produced endurance. The stories they share and the thanks they give reveal that their endurance has produced character. Two of those I encountered have suffered multiple afflictions. Experiencing only Katrina would have been enough to bear, yet life has additional burdens.

Annette is a middle aged lady who owns a ranch home about two miles from the shore. Somehow an iron mast from a fishing boat found its way into her back yard to become stuck in the soil. It must weigh 200 pounds. That portion of her yard was overgrown and infested with weeds. An otherwise neat yard had an unkempt corner. Annette desired for the corner to be cleaned, yet she grinned while insisting on keeping the mast to rename it USS Katrina. She began to tell her story. We listened to stories of neighbors still having nightmares and children in fear of a simple rainstorm. Annette suffers from Lupus. Then she began to tell of her son by showing his photographs on her cell phone. Both pictures show a young man attached to a respirator. He has since died. One woman has suffered multiple afflictions. Yet after inspecting her clean yard, we left her smiling. Hopefully she received a small gift of healing. She gave us joyous nicknames, expressed appreciation, photographed us, and gave genuine hugs. Annette quickly departed saying she did not want to cry.

Kenneth is also middle aged; a tall burly man living in a one room shack on a Mississippi dirt road. He does not even have a FEMA trailer. The day I spent on his property made me feel as if I were with the Joad family in The Grapes of Wrath. John Steinbeck wrote: “How can we live without our lives? How will we know it’s us without our past?” Kenneth’s trailer – his past – had been blown away not by a dust storm, but waves. Former days of good health appear to also be in his past. Yet he is a man who lives, without being wiped out or licked. Perhaps Kenneth is Steinbeck’s “lonesome animal.” He is a quiet man who speaks infrequently. Suffering with throat cancer, it is an effort for Kenneth to talk, plus an effort for the listener to comprehend him. Yet his words were only positive ones, even when showing us pictures of Katrina’s damage. Next to his dilapidated home rises the beginning of a small new house, high on stilts. Our tasks included cutting plastic to cover the particle board, wrapping the home in the plastic, installing windows, and holding the ladder. By the end of that day progress was evident with the wrapping and new windows very visible. Hopefully this was the work of a small miracle on that dusty road. Upon our departure the burly man photographed us and told us he loved us. Those words were most easy for us to comprehend. I felt the Pentecost fire that warms, energizes and excites. We quickly departed not wanting to cry.

This was the work we were given to do on a long weekend. Most of our projects were done midstream. Often we picked up where an earlier mission team had stopped. After our brief time ran out, we left unfinished projects for another set of volunteers. It is my hope that the Lord will use the labors of many to give strength to the people of Bay St. Louis. May He give the blessing of peace to those who have suffered much and have fear and troubled hearts.

Musings on Mold

In 2006, I was privileged to share a weekend of service to Hurricane Katrina victims with eight church members. It was an honor to serve among people committed to uniquely exercising mercy and compassion. As I journeyed into the heat and humidity of New Orleans, I had a mixture of eagerness and anguish in my soul. I desired to have a wealth of generosity, but inwardly was skeptical of how much help I could be in demolishing a home. Entering the city, I was emotionally overwhelmed by the pervasiveness of the damage. News coverage had been inadequate to convey the seemingly unending miles of dilapidated homes, businesses and apartment complexes. I struggled to contemplate the question: “What can we possibly achieve in two days when surrounded by such destruction?” Yet life is already full of multiple tasks which initially overwhelm: the education of a child, entering a career, a major move, the planting of a row of small trees. Katrina’s damage overwhelms, yes. It presents a new challenge to our generation. Much must be cleaned and removed before the commencement of the rebuilding of homes, communities, and most importantly lives. Multitudes of people are needed for this endeavor. I entered New Orleans only one partially eager person.

We were introduced to one home. Inside warped ceiling fans revealed how high the flood waters had surged. Below everything was in waste. Household items scattered everywhere revealed the power of water. Dishes still in the drainer revealed that the owner left the kitchen ready for a new meal which would never be served. The appearance and smell of mold revealed the slow destruction of items which had been vital to the life and family history of those who had lived there. The open, helpful hands of my co-workers began to reveal the love of God.

As all contents were removed, it was helpful to remember we were not merely cleaning, but taking someone’s life and throwing it on the curb. While working, we always looked for items of value to keep. We carefully placed aside insurance policies, birth certificates, financial statements, gifts, and photos. Something mysterious happened while sifting through the contents. Like archaeologists on a dig, we began to know and like the owner. Even though you become weary from heat and labor, a transformation occurs. Muscles ache, but your attitude shifts for you are no longer just clearing, but serving the owner of the home. Stripping a home down to only the wooden studs gets it ready for renovation which will eventually help the family get back on its feet. A community is made up of families. The more homes which are renovated, the better chance a battered city has of being rebuilt.

Community service in America is often motivated by gimmicks: a race, celebrity endorsement, free t-shirts, fun and games. Our culture often reacts when giving is fun. One worthwhile ministry properly ensures that celebration occurs when a new home is constructed. Participants gain satisfaction over the result. “Mucking houses” is the polar opposite. Devoid of gimmicks, there is neither fanfare nor music; no t-shirt either. Success is measured by an empty house and a growing pile of rubbish. The work, not in the best of conditions, is tiring. There is risk of injury through an accident or exposure to mold. To participate one must struggle to sacrifice; a very Biblical concept I would rather avoid than embrace. Yet suffering is an essential part of what Christ calls redemption. I felt a sense of redemption as I experienced something special in that home. Giving freely to the poor allowed me to hear hope in the voices of New Orleans residents I conversed with. I interacted with sterling examples of positive attitudes in the midst of affliction. I returned home, free of anguish and bewilderment, with more hope in my heart. I gained a greater sense of unity with church members. Through a very practical project, I learned a valuable lesson in mercy and compassion for downtrodden people.

Shelter is a basic necessity; one which has been literally washed away from thousands. Working in the midst of this horrific destruction caused me again to remember that I am a member of the household of God. The Lord is our dwelling place through all generations and circumstances. Even though I witnessed the loss of many homes, I have not lost my home in the Lord. After sifting through a destroyed home I am reminded of how temporal a house is, and how constant God is. This service provided a living example of an old lesson: “Oh God our help in ages past; our hope for years to come. Be Thou our guard while troubles last; and our eternal home.”

It is time to open our hands to help those who are in need due to this loss. Multitudes of workers are needed to join in the task of cleaning out these homes. Katrina may no longer be in the news, but the destruction remains. We can not forget the remnants of this crisis. Restoration is an immense task which requires a huge amount of labor. Yet it is a job which can be done if we respond. Yes, it a challenging task. If you should choose to accept it, you will leave New Orleans with a sense of enrichment and fulfillment. Go, and take someone with you.