There were many ideas on what to write on for the final time in 2010. It has been another year of loss, of gain, of things left behind, and new things acquired.
First, let me play Ann Landers for someone. What do you feel God is telling you about your future? All I see is missionary when I look at photos of you in Kenya. Do you really need a test to tell you what’s in your heart already?
Second, and this may tough for some of you, I am going to talk about the Nazarene District that I am a part of. Pastor recently asked me if I would find another Nazarene church to attend if my wife and I moved to another town. The answer was no. Can I ask all the ‘renes who read this blog a question...When was the last time you passionately cared about something or someone? I don’t see it anymore. Our leadership in the district, they are nice enough, but they are not living the big picture. One pastor uses the line “I am just a poor inerrant preacher”, when we all know he is not poor. He does not know poor. Come over sometime, we will go visit someone who lives on less than $2,000 a year. Another leader claims he is overworked. Doing what? I recently wrote some of the leadership and expressed dissatisfaction with their overpaid positions. One actually moved and is growing a new church. I commend him. The others...there is no change. Do you pay attention to what your church leadership, what your district leadership, is doing? Because they are not doing enough. (If you disagree, there is a comment spot on the blog, please do not e-mail me, let my readers see what you have to say about this) The great commission, given by Jesus, was pretty simple.
18-20Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge: "God authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you. I'll be with you as you do this, day after day after day, right up to the end of the age."
But do we do that as leaders? Are we training? I wanted to be trained, and instead I am forgotten by the supposed education committee in the district. Where is the leadership, where is it, I don’t see it, do you? I am not trying to be mean; I am trying to say something about a problem that I see that needs fixing. Can we fix it at Team Day, with the same old seminars telling us what we need to do, and then not going out and doing it? I wanted to be a part of the district, but that fizzled due to a lack of leadership. No one wants to take responsibility; they just seem to want the money and the title. The district wants to point fingers, but they don’t want help. I want to love them as brothers, but I am so disappointed it is hard to do. Who are they accountable to? One of them told me that he reported to this board, that board, etc....But what about the laypeople, what about Christ? Are you accountable on Sunday morning when the lost are not in our churches, when people in Illinois are going to hell while you preach pithy little sermons about how poor you are? I am not buying it anymore.
Matthew West tells us about “His Own Little World” with a population of one. And then his eyes are opened and he sees a starving and homeless widow and his population increases to two. Are we in our little world, or are we seeing the whole world outside our church doors? Are we wearing rose-colored glasses? COME ON DISTRICT LEADERS, CHALLENGE ME. I DARE YOU. Come to the Pana church and face us as a congregation, tell us what you are doing. Tell us it is all good, that souls are being saved, that you are building leaders, that you are baptizing, and instructing, and not just paying people to park in their living rooms, their little church offices, doing nothing, while the world dies outside.
I am looking forward to 2011. I am hoping that people grow, change, and try to make a difference.
There was a lot of personal loss this year, friends and family, and they will all be missed. Goodbye to all of them was hard. I look forward to the someday reunions.
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
It's The Most Wonderful Time...for some people.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNOM7WOGGUw
First, I highly recommend this video.
It's Christmas, and so far, so good. I have not really gotten depressed yet, though people around me seem to be there.
It is a tough time of year. The loss of my uncle, my dear friend's parents, family friends, and church friends has made it a tough year. Financially, we have struggled, but I see the rewards everyday. They are not materialistic, they are watching a young man get an education, ending his fall semester with over 90% in each class. So the money we are spending is worth it. Physically, there have been a few issues, but nothing that cannot be handled with medicine and doctors and watching what we do.
I have listened to many friends and family members talk about loss, about loneliness, about hurt and pain and suffering. And Christmas just drudges it up for many of them.
But then I really paid attention to the Christmas story this year. How a young girl found out she was carrying the salvation of the world, God's son, and how she had to tell the man she was to marry, and somehow make him believe this outrageous story.
And how Joseph, somewhere lost in the annals of history, had to reconcile himself into believing this concept, that his young bride-to-be was the mother of God, and he was the earthly father. And then they had to flee their home and hide out in Egypt for several years so their baby would not be killed because a crazed king believed it the right thing to do.
And I think, if they could get through it, then I can get through my life and its ups and downs. That I dont have to be the grinch that has to hurt others to make myself feel good, that I dont have to put people down, be so mean-spirited (and I am guilty of that very thing this time of year), but I can try to be better.
This year the church gave over 150 kids Christmas presents. Plus, we had leftovers and gave more kids a better Christmas. There was one woman that seems ungrateful for the free toys. But then I look back and think how hard it must be for some people to accept charity, when they make struggle all year to make ends meet. It does not boost my ego to give, it makes me feel good, but maybe that is not what some people need to see this time of year.
Maybe they need to see that we all struggle with things that weigh us down, hurt us, make us regret.
And maybe we all need to remember that everyone has gone through hardship, even a young couple all those years ago in Bethlehem.
First, I highly recommend this video.
It's Christmas, and so far, so good. I have not really gotten depressed yet, though people around me seem to be there.
It is a tough time of year. The loss of my uncle, my dear friend's parents, family friends, and church friends has made it a tough year. Financially, we have struggled, but I see the rewards everyday. They are not materialistic, they are watching a young man get an education, ending his fall semester with over 90% in each class. So the money we are spending is worth it. Physically, there have been a few issues, but nothing that cannot be handled with medicine and doctors and watching what we do.
I have listened to many friends and family members talk about loss, about loneliness, about hurt and pain and suffering. And Christmas just drudges it up for many of them.
But then I really paid attention to the Christmas story this year. How a young girl found out she was carrying the salvation of the world, God's son, and how she had to tell the man she was to marry, and somehow make him believe this outrageous story.
And how Joseph, somewhere lost in the annals of history, had to reconcile himself into believing this concept, that his young bride-to-be was the mother of God, and he was the earthly father. And then they had to flee their home and hide out in Egypt for several years so their baby would not be killed because a crazed king believed it the right thing to do.
And I think, if they could get through it, then I can get through my life and its ups and downs. That I dont have to be the grinch that has to hurt others to make myself feel good, that I dont have to put people down, be so mean-spirited (and I am guilty of that very thing this time of year), but I can try to be better.
This year the church gave over 150 kids Christmas presents. Plus, we had leftovers and gave more kids a better Christmas. There was one woman that seems ungrateful for the free toys. But then I look back and think how hard it must be for some people to accept charity, when they make struggle all year to make ends meet. It does not boost my ego to give, it makes me feel good, but maybe that is not what some people need to see this time of year.
Maybe they need to see that we all struggle with things that weigh us down, hurt us, make us regret.
And maybe we all need to remember that everyone has gone through hardship, even a young couple all those years ago in Bethlehem.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Random Things I Like (next week, Random Things I don't Like)
For this week, let’s talk about my random likes for 2010.
First, I really like Glee. I have read people’s reasons for not watching, and they are just stupid. I like the show, and I still believe there are really good Sunday School lessons to be had in the weekly content.
This week’s episode was the Christmas episode, and it reminded me why I like Artie and Brittney so much as characters. She wants a gift from a Santa she still believes in, and he wants to help her believe. I like them as a couple, and I like the show.
Second, I love Raising Hope, the show on immediately after Glee. It is funny, so well written, and will probably get cancelled. That is too bad, because Martha Plimpton shines, Garrett Dillahunt is so funny, and Cloris Leachman is scary funny. It’s hard to believe that she once took Mrs. Garrett’s place on the unfunny “The Facts of Life”.
Third, I have become a huge fan of Joe Hill. His two books, “Heart-Shaped Box” and “Horns” were both very well written. He may be the son of Stephen King, but he is nothing like his dad in writing.
Fourth, I love people and their giving nature this time of year. There are those unsung heroes that give toys to Angel Tree, or money, and never tell who they are. And then there are the ones I know about. Who have already blessed a lot of kids with their gifts. We decided to stay in Pana this year for several reasons, and we now have over 140 kids signed up. God knew what He was doing but having us stay home this year.
Fifth, can I recommend “Good Will Hunting”? I know it is an older movie, but I just rewatched it and it is so good. I even like Robin Williams in it.
Lastly, let me say a goodbye to 2010. I will miss nothing about it, except a friend I lost earlier this year.
First, I really like Glee. I have read people’s reasons for not watching, and they are just stupid. I like the show, and I still believe there are really good Sunday School lessons to be had in the weekly content.
This week’s episode was the Christmas episode, and it reminded me why I like Artie and Brittney so much as characters. She wants a gift from a Santa she still believes in, and he wants to help her believe. I like them as a couple, and I like the show.
Second, I love Raising Hope, the show on immediately after Glee. It is funny, so well written, and will probably get cancelled. That is too bad, because Martha Plimpton shines, Garrett Dillahunt is so funny, and Cloris Leachman is scary funny. It’s hard to believe that she once took Mrs. Garrett’s place on the unfunny “The Facts of Life”.
Third, I have become a huge fan of Joe Hill. His two books, “Heart-Shaped Box” and “Horns” were both very well written. He may be the son of Stephen King, but he is nothing like his dad in writing.
Fourth, I love people and their giving nature this time of year. There are those unsung heroes that give toys to Angel Tree, or money, and never tell who they are. And then there are the ones I know about. Who have already blessed a lot of kids with their gifts. We decided to stay in Pana this year for several reasons, and we now have over 140 kids signed up. God knew what He was doing but having us stay home this year.
Fifth, can I recommend “Good Will Hunting”? I know it is an older movie, but I just rewatched it and it is so good. I even like Robin Williams in it.
Lastly, let me say a goodbye to 2010. I will miss nothing about it, except a friend I lost earlier this year.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
SEE YOU IN THE PARKING LOT AT THE CHURCH
If you read last week’s blog, then the title should tell you everything you need to know. Have a GREAT THANKSGIVING. I will.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
It’s the Most Weirdly Wonderful Time of the Year.
With veto session starting, and no gifts bought yet, and no turkeys on sale...
But there have been good things happening. Giving seems to be staying pretty consistent with last year for Angel Tree and Washington Park. I have picked up a lot of toys and clothing so far, and have more to pick up this weekend. Even with the economy in the tank for a third year, people still seem to give beyond their needs.
A couple of things to talk about before my main subject.
I went to a visitation over the weekend for a fixture from the Taylorville area. When we finally got inside the funeral home (almost an hour wait), there was a soldier standing next to the coffin. I was told it was the Honor Guard. As we approached the visit line, I noticed that the soldier was someone I knew, a friend from high school (almost 30 years ago). It was after 4:00 p.m. and we were informed that he had been standing there since 1:30 p.m. Wow. With Veteran’s Day having only been a few days ago, it reminded me how much I really respect our men and women that serve. Steve is a great guy anyway, but to see him in this new light made me respect him even more.
Why do people fuss so much about Santa and Jesus and which one should be the focus of Christmas? If I had more kids, they would learn about the Grinch, Rudolph, putting one foot in front of the other, Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold (throwing that great Christmas “fit” when he receives a Jelly-of-the-Month subscription instead of the expected bonus), Charlie Brown Christmas, and they would learn about Jesus. Can’t they all just get along?
And now my main subject:
A friend told me his wife has some serious medical issues, and they have to face them the day before Thanksgiving. I have been told about things like this before, thousands of times. But for some reason when he told me on Sunday, it stuck with me all day, and has continued to be the focus of my prayers ever since. This young couple has endured a lot in their lives, especially the loss of their first child. But they are strong. And I have to say, I really love them. I love watching them with their two children, I admire the way they keep their first born fresh in people’s memories, I just love them. And I don’t want them to suffer. I really feel like God has put them at the forefront of my thoughts for a reason, so I am praying just a little more seriously then I typically do now, taking everything a little more serious. I know people that crap out of their faith after things a lot smaller than the loss of a child or the fear of a possible life-altering disease, but I do not, for one moment, see that happening with this couple. I am going to keep praying for them, I am going to be there for them, and I believe that things are going to come out so well that we all will be dancing in the parking lot of church on Thanksgiving morning. At least I will.
Here’s the thing. I don’t do enough praying. But somehow this weekend God decided to really put it on my brain. So here goes...
Man, I am so glad that is over. Five minutes seems like a lifetime.
But really, we don’t do enough. I read a book last year about being in constant prayer. The prayer of the office came into the mix. The book talked about how the early church always had someone at the church in prayer. Imagine that, no really...stop and imagine it. If we “prayed without ceasing”. Things would be so different. I am going to try it for real, see what happens.
It is the weirdest time of the year. I suffer from seasonal affective disorder, so the less sun light there is, the more depressed I seem to become. I am taking Vitamin D, and we will see if that helps. But I am also betting on the prayer thing this year. I want to be happy through Thanksgiving and Christmas, I want to wake up refreshed, I want to experience each day as different as the previous day.
I want this time of year to mean something.
And for my friends that will be worrying up until Thanksgiving about these health issues, I want them to wake up on Thursday, November 25, 2010, and be worried about nothing but Thanksgiving dinner. And what teams will win their football games that day. And what time to get up to go to all the great Black Friday Christmas sales. I want them to worry about the fun stuff.
But there have been good things happening. Giving seems to be staying pretty consistent with last year for Angel Tree and Washington Park. I have picked up a lot of toys and clothing so far, and have more to pick up this weekend. Even with the economy in the tank for a third year, people still seem to give beyond their needs.
A couple of things to talk about before my main subject.
I went to a visitation over the weekend for a fixture from the Taylorville area. When we finally got inside the funeral home (almost an hour wait), there was a soldier standing next to the coffin. I was told it was the Honor Guard. As we approached the visit line, I noticed that the soldier was someone I knew, a friend from high school (almost 30 years ago). It was after 4:00 p.m. and we were informed that he had been standing there since 1:30 p.m. Wow. With Veteran’s Day having only been a few days ago, it reminded me how much I really respect our men and women that serve. Steve is a great guy anyway, but to see him in this new light made me respect him even more.
Why do people fuss so much about Santa and Jesus and which one should be the focus of Christmas? If I had more kids, they would learn about the Grinch, Rudolph, putting one foot in front of the other, Will Ferrell as Buddy the Elf, Chevy Chase as Clark Griswold (throwing that great Christmas “fit” when he receives a Jelly-of-the-Month subscription instead of the expected bonus), Charlie Brown Christmas, and they would learn about Jesus. Can’t they all just get along?
And now my main subject:
A friend told me his wife has some serious medical issues, and they have to face them the day before Thanksgiving. I have been told about things like this before, thousands of times. But for some reason when he told me on Sunday, it stuck with me all day, and has continued to be the focus of my prayers ever since. This young couple has endured a lot in their lives, especially the loss of their first child. But they are strong. And I have to say, I really love them. I love watching them with their two children, I admire the way they keep their first born fresh in people’s memories, I just love them. And I don’t want them to suffer. I really feel like God has put them at the forefront of my thoughts for a reason, so I am praying just a little more seriously then I typically do now, taking everything a little more serious. I know people that crap out of their faith after things a lot smaller than the loss of a child or the fear of a possible life-altering disease, but I do not, for one moment, see that happening with this couple. I am going to keep praying for them, I am going to be there for them, and I believe that things are going to come out so well that we all will be dancing in the parking lot of church on Thanksgiving morning. At least I will.
Here’s the thing. I don’t do enough praying. But somehow this weekend God decided to really put it on my brain. So here goes...
Man, I am so glad that is over. Five minutes seems like a lifetime.
But really, we don’t do enough. I read a book last year about being in constant prayer. The prayer of the office came into the mix. The book talked about how the early church always had someone at the church in prayer. Imagine that, no really...stop and imagine it. If we “prayed without ceasing”. Things would be so different. I am going to try it for real, see what happens.
It is the weirdest time of the year. I suffer from seasonal affective disorder, so the less sun light there is, the more depressed I seem to become. I am taking Vitamin D, and we will see if that helps. But I am also betting on the prayer thing this year. I want to be happy through Thanksgiving and Christmas, I want to wake up refreshed, I want to experience each day as different as the previous day.
I want this time of year to mean something.
And for my friends that will be worrying up until Thanksgiving about these health issues, I want them to wake up on Thursday, November 25, 2010, and be worried about nothing but Thanksgiving dinner. And what teams will win their football games that day. And what time to get up to go to all the great Black Friday Christmas sales. I want them to worry about the fun stuff.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Really? I've Been Too Nice?
Someone mentioned the blog to me last week and said they really enjoyed the week-long series about my uncle and his family. I really appreciated that, and told them to keep on commenting. Then they did.
They said that I have been too nice lately. That I was not going "after" the hard issues like I used to, which I really dont recall ever doing.
So, I have decided to write about the "hard" issues this week.
First, I think that if you are going to make excuses for why you dont come to church, then come up with something powerful. Seriously... I heard this one and it just reeks of lame. "We are not coming because one of the teens went to the altar, knelt, and we could see his butt crack." I am not exposing my children to that." But you expose your kids to other things, and that does not seem to bother you. And the saddest thing of all is that your kids like church. Way to punish the kid with the butt crack. Couldnt you just tell him to wear a longer shirt, or to pull it down, or maybe you could have walked up, and stood in front of the offensive crack, or prayed with him. Major Lame.
Or this one..."It is my only day off." Other than my half day Tuesdays, and Saturday. I call that laziness.
Or "this person makes me angry so I am staying home." Dont you have people at work that make you angry? How does that work out for you?
Now I know some people will call the pastor, or a trustee, and say, "He was talking about me on his blog". I have a telephone, call me. Explain these lame reasons to me.
The music is too loud, I dont like drums, I dont like this person, the pews make my 'roids hurt, it was too cold, it was too hot, I got bulletin ink on my hands, I am bored....
We are so lucky Christ did not go crazy with whiny excuses.
"Ow, these nails hurt!" "I am allergic to wood." "This loincloth is causing me to itch." "I dont want to die for everyone, because there are certain people I just dont like." "I can see the two criminals butt cracks."
By the way, I wont be there Sunday, honoring veterans is really not my thing.
(editors note: the last part is not true, it is just sarcasm)
They said that I have been too nice lately. That I was not going "after" the hard issues like I used to, which I really dont recall ever doing.
So, I have decided to write about the "hard" issues this week.
First, I think that if you are going to make excuses for why you dont come to church, then come up with something powerful. Seriously... I heard this one and it just reeks of lame. "We are not coming because one of the teens went to the altar, knelt, and we could see his butt crack." I am not exposing my children to that." But you expose your kids to other things, and that does not seem to bother you. And the saddest thing of all is that your kids like church. Way to punish the kid with the butt crack. Couldnt you just tell him to wear a longer shirt, or to pull it down, or maybe you could have walked up, and stood in front of the offensive crack, or prayed with him. Major Lame.
Or this one..."It is my only day off." Other than my half day Tuesdays, and Saturday. I call that laziness.
Or "this person makes me angry so I am staying home." Dont you have people at work that make you angry? How does that work out for you?
Now I know some people will call the pastor, or a trustee, and say, "He was talking about me on his blog". I have a telephone, call me. Explain these lame reasons to me.
The music is too loud, I dont like drums, I dont like this person, the pews make my 'roids hurt, it was too cold, it was too hot, I got bulletin ink on my hands, I am bored....
We are so lucky Christ did not go crazy with whiny excuses.
"Ow, these nails hurt!" "I am allergic to wood." "This loincloth is causing me to itch." "I dont want to die for everyone, because there are certain people I just dont like." "I can see the two criminals butt cracks."
By the way, I wont be there Sunday, honoring veterans is really not my thing.
(editors note: the last part is not true, it is just sarcasm)
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The Cousins.
I mentioned Gayla on Tuesday. Now to the rest of my cousins.
First there is Renee. This poor girl cannot afford real clothes and is forced to wear what seems to be nightwear. I try to give her money but she is so proud she refuses.
She used to babysit for us and then we pretty much destroyed her wedding. I remember playing on a microphone, not realizing it was on and the whole place could hear us. Luckily she forgave us. She has three grown children, and I am not sure how many grandchildren. Is she really that much older than me? Renee has inherited Kenny's work ethic, I think she has worked as long as I have known her, either at Sangamon with Kenny or at the State.
Then there is Amy. I was so happy a few years ago when Amy started going to church. She is so sweet, and has her dad's sense of humor more than anyone else. She has two great kids, and her daughter may be part elf or smurf. Luckily her son is normal. Her husband is an incredible hard worker, doing extra work to keep his family going. He is a real example to his son, and to me. Amy is a lot of fun, and has put up with the adoption joke for years.
Kim is married to Todd, a great guy but very quiet, and they have two kids.
Kim made me cry the other night on the telephone, twice. She has matured into one of the sweetest people, complimenting me in the midst of her own tragedy. She never ceases to say nice things about this blog, and about others. This is a trait she has gotten from her father. I believe that someday people will say of her, "she knew no enemies and no one ever spoke against her." Just like her dad. The four girls have grown up from my cousins to my friends. They have great families and our beautiful young women. Even Renee.
So thus ends my week of blogs for Uncle Kenny.
To Anna and the girls, stay strong, keep your friends and family close, and keep digging up memories of Kenny. They will sustain you. He was great and I will miss him, in case you have not noticed.
First there is Renee. This poor girl cannot afford real clothes and is forced to wear what seems to be nightwear. I try to give her money but she is so proud she refuses.
She used to babysit for us and then we pretty much destroyed her wedding. I remember playing on a microphone, not realizing it was on and the whole place could hear us. Luckily she forgave us. She has three grown children, and I am not sure how many grandchildren. Is she really that much older than me? Renee has inherited Kenny's work ethic, I think she has worked as long as I have known her, either at Sangamon with Kenny or at the State.
Then there is Amy. I was so happy a few years ago when Amy started going to church. She is so sweet, and has her dad's sense of humor more than anyone else. She has two great kids, and her daughter may be part elf or smurf. Luckily her son is normal. Her husband is an incredible hard worker, doing extra work to keep his family going. He is a real example to his son, and to me. Amy is a lot of fun, and has put up with the adoption joke for years.
Kim is married to Todd, a great guy but very quiet, and they have two kids.
Kim made me cry the other night on the telephone, twice. She has matured into one of the sweetest people, complimenting me in the midst of her own tragedy. She never ceases to say nice things about this blog, and about others. This is a trait she has gotten from her father. I believe that someday people will say of her, "she knew no enemies and no one ever spoke against her." Just like her dad. The four girls have grown up from my cousins to my friends. They have great families and our beautiful young women. Even Renee.
So thus ends my week of blogs for Uncle Kenny.
To Anna and the girls, stay strong, keep your friends and family close, and keep digging up memories of Kenny. They will sustain you. He was great and I will miss him, in case you have not noticed.
Class of 19?? was the Largest at Taylorville. Ever!
I graduated from Taylorville High School in 1981. At the time we were the largest graduating class in the history of the high school, and we were allowed to hold our graduation outdoors. It was a pretty big deal for the time. And I felt sort of proud being a part of that historical class.
And then my Uncle Kenny deflated my ego.
It turned out that his graduating class was the largest ever, because, as we found out over the years, he went to school with everyone.
You could be with Kenny in County Market and he would run into someone, "I went to school with her." She would be young woman, mid-30s, Kenny was 60 at the time.
In Ace Hardware, a man from Litchfield, early 80s, Kenny is 49, but somehow they went to school together.
Was my leg being pulled?
Did he really go to school with all those people?
Suddenly my graduating class seems so small.
I imagine there will be a class reunion in Heaven, people from the Taylorville Classes of 1929 to 2001, from Pana, Kincaid, Assumption, the Decatur and Springfield schools, from other states, maybe a few from across the ocean, and Uncle Kenny will know them all. Because he went to school with them.
And then my Uncle Kenny deflated my ego.
It turned out that his graduating class was the largest ever, because, as we found out over the years, he went to school with everyone.
You could be with Kenny in County Market and he would run into someone, "I went to school with her." She would be young woman, mid-30s, Kenny was 60 at the time.
In Ace Hardware, a man from Litchfield, early 80s, Kenny is 49, but somehow they went to school together.
Was my leg being pulled?
Did he really go to school with all those people?
Suddenly my graduating class seems so small.
I imagine there will be a class reunion in Heaven, people from the Taylorville Classes of 1929 to 2001, from Pana, Kincaid, Assumption, the Decatur and Springfield schools, from other states, maybe a few from across the ocean, and Uncle Kenny will know them all. Because he went to school with them.
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
Easter Eggs and other Memories
I need to come clean. Mom and I are the ones that put Easter eggs up every year at my aunt and uncles house.
It was so much fun. The year we did the bathroom up in the Easter motif was the best.
Over the years we had a lot of fun with Anna and Kenny.
I remember when Anna painted a front bedroom with either sponge or feathers. We thought it was silly, and yet years later we were all doing it. She did not know she was a trendsetter at the time.
I remember a great trip to Chicago when Anna wanted to go to culinary school. I got to take a great taxi ride, rode the El for the first time, and took the South Shores train on a Friday evening, which is evidently party time. I spent a lot of time getting to know Anna that weekend, and it is still a fond memory.
Mom and Dad asked Anna and Kenny to take in my sister and I if anything ever happened to my parents. That would have been interesting. Five girls in one room, me with my own, as least that is how I envisioned it.
I remember being at their house during a tornado. Someone mentioned Kenny watching the weather, and it brought back that memory.
I remember the backyard pond on Pine Street. The side yard where we used to play. I remember watching their house during their trips to Kansas, Chicago, or anywhere else they went. I always watched Top Gun on their big screen t.v. It seemed so cool on the big screen.
I remember a lot, 90% of it fond, some of it not. But I like to focus on the 90%.
We had a lot of good times, that is why I like family. Tomorrow I will talk about my other cousins, and maybe tell Amy that she is not adopted.
It was so much fun. The year we did the bathroom up in the Easter motif was the best.
Over the years we had a lot of fun with Anna and Kenny.
I remember when Anna painted a front bedroom with either sponge or feathers. We thought it was silly, and yet years later we were all doing it. She did not know she was a trendsetter at the time.
I remember a great trip to Chicago when Anna wanted to go to culinary school. I got to take a great taxi ride, rode the El for the first time, and took the South Shores train on a Friday evening, which is evidently party time. I spent a lot of time getting to know Anna that weekend, and it is still a fond memory.
Mom and Dad asked Anna and Kenny to take in my sister and I if anything ever happened to my parents. That would have been interesting. Five girls in one room, me with my own, as least that is how I envisioned it.
I remember being at their house during a tornado. Someone mentioned Kenny watching the weather, and it brought back that memory.
I remember the backyard pond on Pine Street. The side yard where we used to play. I remember watching their house during their trips to Kansas, Chicago, or anywhere else they went. I always watched Top Gun on their big screen t.v. It seemed so cool on the big screen.
I remember a lot, 90% of it fond, some of it not. But I like to focus on the 90%.
We had a lot of good times, that is why I like family. Tomorrow I will talk about my other cousins, and maybe tell Amy that she is not adopted.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
One More Thing Today
The cat on my blog actually showed up two weeks ago at our house. He is named Sawyer, and could use a good home. We will keep him if no one wants him. He is a big sweetie, and he does have tough.
One Week for Kenny
I have decided to write everyday this week in tribute to my late Uncle Kenny.
Today I want to talk about Gayla.
Last night at the funeral I got to thinking about something and I told her this as we were leaving the funeral home.
She was my first best friend.
We grew up next door to each other. My aunt married her dad and so we step-cousins, but first we were friends.
There were other kids in the neighborhood, Mindy and Greg Credi, Susan Jones, but Gayla was it. Her older sister, Renee, was okay (I kid, I love Renee) but Gayla was my buddy, my pal, and my first best friend.
As a fat kid, and now a fat guy, she never judged, and just like her father, has been so accepting of me over the years.
She is truly one of a kind.
She is married to an awesome man, even though he needs to learn to bribe me a little better. My wife can tell him that I am not a fan of starbrite peppermints, especially ones you took out of a candy dish in the funeral home foyer.
She has three great girls. More about one of them later.
During the loss of her dad, she took the time to ask about me and my family. This is someone with a great heart and a concern for others.
We could use more people like her in the world.
Luckily, her daughters have inherited her gift of compassion.
Crystal, the middle daughter, holds a special place in my heart for something she did for me.
She was the nurse the night my mom died. She was with her the whole night, talking to her, comforting her, holding her hand. She is soon going to be a mom. I hope, and really I know, that her child is going to be like Gayla and Crystal...comforting, loving, and someone's first best friend.
Today I want to talk about Gayla.
Last night at the funeral I got to thinking about something and I told her this as we were leaving the funeral home.
She was my first best friend.
We grew up next door to each other. My aunt married her dad and so we step-cousins, but first we were friends.
There were other kids in the neighborhood, Mindy and Greg Credi, Susan Jones, but Gayla was it. Her older sister, Renee, was okay (I kid, I love Renee) but Gayla was my buddy, my pal, and my first best friend.
As a fat kid, and now a fat guy, she never judged, and just like her father, has been so accepting of me over the years.
She is truly one of a kind.
She is married to an awesome man, even though he needs to learn to bribe me a little better. My wife can tell him that I am not a fan of starbrite peppermints, especially ones you took out of a candy dish in the funeral home foyer.
She has three great girls. More about one of them later.
During the loss of her dad, she took the time to ask about me and my family. This is someone with a great heart and a concern for others.
We could use more people like her in the world.
Luckily, her daughters have inherited her gift of compassion.
Crystal, the middle daughter, holds a special place in my heart for something she did for me.
She was the nurse the night my mom died. She was with her the whole night, talking to her, comforting her, holding her hand. She is soon going to be a mom. I hope, and really I know, that her child is going to be like Gayla and Crystal...comforting, loving, and someone's first best friend.
Monday, October 18, 2010
When Danger Reared Its Ugly Head...
He bravely turned his tail and fled. Brave, brave, brave Sir Robin.
I hate death. I want to avoid it when it comes up. As a former pastor, associate, youth, etc. I have been around it a lot. I stood my mom as she passed away. My uncle Roger, people from the church, family friends, etc.
And I wish I could have avoided it this weekend.
I got a call early Friday morning that my favorite uncle had passed away. I had just seen him in a funeral home parking lot a week ago, at a visitation for a family friend. We just waved, no stopping to talk.
And now he is gone.
He was my favorite for a number of reasons.
First, he always seemed to care about everyone. He was a part of the Sertoma Club, Junior Achievement, he volunteered at the hospital and fire department. He did not know a stranger, everyone went to school with him, at least according to him.
Second, he was fun. He had a great sense of humor and a great laugh. He was just someone you wanted to be around. We picked on him at family gatherings, and he took it in great strides.
I remember his love for cottage cheese. His love for candy, snacks, bananas, and the champagne of beers.
I remember his great handshake. He never really made it as a car salesman because he had too good of a handshake.
I remember him working at Ace Hardware and us ringing the doorbells on display to get his attention, and possibly, his goat.
I still say "let's rid up supper" because I learned it from him.
I remember sitting in his little office at Gordon's when he rented cars. I actually rented a car from him. Didn't need to, just did it for a trip to Michigan.
I remember his Mom, his grandma, and so much more....
Then a young mom died in Pana. Four kids left behind and her husband, who is such a nice young man. He helped us at church during a drama presentation.
When danger rears its ugly head, or death...I flee.
Goodbye Uncle Kenny. My fondness for you will never fail.
I hate death. I want to avoid it when it comes up. As a former pastor, associate, youth, etc. I have been around it a lot. I stood my mom as she passed away. My uncle Roger, people from the church, family friends, etc.
And I wish I could have avoided it this weekend.
I got a call early Friday morning that my favorite uncle had passed away. I had just seen him in a funeral home parking lot a week ago, at a visitation for a family friend. We just waved, no stopping to talk.
And now he is gone.
He was my favorite for a number of reasons.
First, he always seemed to care about everyone. He was a part of the Sertoma Club, Junior Achievement, he volunteered at the hospital and fire department. He did not know a stranger, everyone went to school with him, at least according to him.
Second, he was fun. He had a great sense of humor and a great laugh. He was just someone you wanted to be around. We picked on him at family gatherings, and he took it in great strides.
I remember his love for cottage cheese. His love for candy, snacks, bananas, and the champagne of beers.
I remember his great handshake. He never really made it as a car salesman because he had too good of a handshake.
I remember him working at Ace Hardware and us ringing the doorbells on display to get his attention, and possibly, his goat.
I still say "let's rid up supper" because I learned it from him.
I remember sitting in his little office at Gordon's when he rented cars. I actually rented a car from him. Didn't need to, just did it for a trip to Michigan.
I remember his Mom, his grandma, and so much more....
Then a young mom died in Pana. Four kids left behind and her husband, who is such a nice young man. He helped us at church during a drama presentation.
When danger rears its ugly head, or death...I flee.
Goodbye Uncle Kenny. My fondness for you will never fail.
Thursday, September 30, 2010
A couple of little things for the week
First, saw this, or I should say, I was sent this, and decided to add it to the blog.
I really like Donald Miller and his work. If you can support this, please do.
We are getting ready for another Christmas at Washington Park. We need new toys, or slightly used ones work as well, for the kids. We also need candy canes, oranges and apples, fruit snacks, candy bars (no peanuts), and of course, money to help us buy whatever else we need. I will try to post pictures on here from last year soon. They are at the top. If you have donations, or want more information, leave a comment here and I will contact you about helping.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Did She Make it Home?
She called earlier today needing directions to get out of the Capitol city. She was headed north and needed to go south. I think I helped her. I hope I did. I would hate to think she is out there, somewhere in the abyss, wandering around without direction.
It's kind of my responsibility as a Christian.
Helping others find their way.
Even though sometimes I need help finding my way.
I do not own a GPS system, so, as a man, I just say things like "look at this way, it is a part of the state you have never seen before" or "I could have sworn this was the right road".
I dont want a GPS.
I like getting lost once in a while.
It reminds me I am human.
of course, then the moon is on the opposite side of the road again, so maybe a GPS would be good right about now.
We all, Christian and not-Christian, have a measure of responsibility to help other people find their way. With all the financial problems, the war, the threats of terrorism, the unsureness of tomorrow, we all need to help each other find our ways.
My aunt is a master gardener, helping others with produce related problems.
A cousin is a plumber, unclogging those problems within the pipes.
A friend is a supervisor in a factory, making sure no one falls into the machinery.
All we can do is give the directions, it is up to the individual if they make it home.
It's kind of my responsibility as a Christian.
Helping others find their way.
Even though sometimes I need help finding my way.
I do not own a GPS system, so, as a man, I just say things like "look at this way, it is a part of the state you have never seen before" or "I could have sworn this was the right road".
I dont want a GPS.
I like getting lost once in a while.
It reminds me I am human.
of course, then the moon is on the opposite side of the road again, so maybe a GPS would be good right about now.
We all, Christian and not-Christian, have a measure of responsibility to help other people find their way. With all the financial problems, the war, the threats of terrorism, the unsureness of tomorrow, we all need to help each other find our ways.
My aunt is a master gardener, helping others with produce related problems.
A cousin is a plumber, unclogging those problems within the pipes.
A friend is a supervisor in a factory, making sure no one falls into the machinery.
All we can do is give the directions, it is up to the individual if they make it home.
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Welcome Back. (No more Mister Nice Guy)
Today is September 21 and I have decided to resume the weekly blog after a period of depression. (more about that someday). After talking to my dear cousin the other night I decided to start blogging again. It has been far too long.
Why did I stop? Well, I had a friend die and people went crazy and I stopped doing a lot of things that I really liked. This blog was one of them. I changed the title from Churchie McChurchstein to "I do has tough" because, well, because I do has tough. (see my profile picture). My cousin really made me remember who I am, and what I am about, and that I am stronger than I know. And for that I say "thanks Matt".
So I will still blog about church life, my life, work, my favorite things, and all that other stuff that seems important to me. I have a lot of catching up to do, so I may even write more than once a week for a while.
So, to those of you that have missed me, I am back. And to those of you that have not missed me, I really don't care because you have a terrible attitude and your mom probably dresses you funny .
Why did I stop? Well, I had a friend die and people went crazy and I stopped doing a lot of things that I really liked. This blog was one of them. I changed the title from Churchie McChurchstein to "I do has tough" because, well, because I do has tough. (see my profile picture). My cousin really made me remember who I am, and what I am about, and that I am stronger than I know. And for that I say "thanks Matt".
So I will still blog about church life, my life, work, my favorite things, and all that other stuff that seems important to me. I have a lot of catching up to do, so I may even write more than once a week for a while.
So, to those of you that have missed me, I am back. And to those of you that have not missed me, I really don't care because you have a terrible attitude and your mom probably dresses you funny .
Thursday, March 4, 2010
I want to Recommend some new things.
This week I want to start out by saying something that has bothered me for almost 24 hours: certain people should not do certain things.
An example of this would be ice skating. People...like...and I will just make an example here of...Beth Miller, should not ice skate.
But enough of that...unto the blog. This week I want to recommend some things and I am actually going to put attachments into the blog so you can see them. The first is validation, a short film I discovered on Misscellenia.com (great site). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cbk980jV7Ao
Next I want to recommend the movie “Henry Poole is Here” in case I have not previously. It is a great movie, with a few little curse words, but get past those and watch the film.
Next is this quote:
“If you don’t need the gospel more than the people you’re sharing it with, then you ought not be sharing it with them.”
-Don Allender, Ph.D. Professor of Counseling Psychology at Mars Hills Graduate School
I ran across this quote in Relevant Magazine. It came from the advertisement for Mars Hill Graduate School. And it was all I thought about the rest of the day.
I also want to recommend Pandora Radio on the ‘net. I love being able to listen to music that I like. It is awesome, and free.
I love my adopted son, and can say with great pride, that he has done something to make me proud yet again. He applied for, and yesterday received, an R.A. position at his school. He will make a great R.A. because he is such a good witness, good example, and great young man. The school made a great choice.
Great television still exists, in my world anyway. I love Big Bang Theory, Southland, The Middle, Modern Family, The Office, Kitchen Nightmares, and Glee.
Favorite current comic...Green Lantern and the Blackest Night storyline. Yes, I love comics. Next up...The Rise and Fall of Green Arrow looks good.
Books that I love this month include...”My Second Chapter” by Matthew Ward of 2nd Chapter of Acts. Thank you John Stanley for that borrow. Also want to recommend “The Orthodox Heretic” by Peter Rollins. This little book has made me think a lot lately about beliefs and story. I used one of his stories last week in the blog and did not give him credit.
Don’t quite know why, but I love the group “One Republic”. Also have become a big fan of Regina Spektor. I used one of her songs for a sermon last year and really need to own her albums. (hint...my birthday is June 27).
That is about it for this week. Overall a great week, thanks to Andrew’s good news, decent snow-free weather, and other stuff...I am grateful for the way God worked on Sunday morning, healing a friendship rift between me and a friend. Good work there, Big Guy in the Sky.
An example of this would be ice skating. People...like...and I will just make an example here of...Beth Miller, should not ice skate.
But enough of that...unto the blog. This week I want to recommend some things and I am actually going to put attachments into the blog so you can see them. The first is validation, a short film I discovered on Misscellenia.com (great site). http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cbk980jV7Ao
Next I want to recommend the movie “Henry Poole is Here” in case I have not previously. It is a great movie, with a few little curse words, but get past those and watch the film.
Next is this quote:
“If you don’t need the gospel more than the people you’re sharing it with, then you ought not be sharing it with them.”
-Don Allender, Ph.D. Professor of Counseling Psychology at Mars Hills Graduate School
I ran across this quote in Relevant Magazine. It came from the advertisement for Mars Hill Graduate School. And it was all I thought about the rest of the day.
I also want to recommend Pandora Radio on the ‘net. I love being able to listen to music that I like. It is awesome, and free.
I love my adopted son, and can say with great pride, that he has done something to make me proud yet again. He applied for, and yesterday received, an R.A. position at his school. He will make a great R.A. because he is such a good witness, good example, and great young man. The school made a great choice.
Great television still exists, in my world anyway. I love Big Bang Theory, Southland, The Middle, Modern Family, The Office, Kitchen Nightmares, and Glee.
Favorite current comic...Green Lantern and the Blackest Night storyline. Yes, I love comics. Next up...The Rise and Fall of Green Arrow looks good.
Books that I love this month include...”My Second Chapter” by Matthew Ward of 2nd Chapter of Acts. Thank you John Stanley for that borrow. Also want to recommend “The Orthodox Heretic” by Peter Rollins. This little book has made me think a lot lately about beliefs and story. I used one of his stories last week in the blog and did not give him credit.
Don’t quite know why, but I love the group “One Republic”. Also have become a big fan of Regina Spektor. I used one of her songs for a sermon last year and really need to own her albums. (hint...my birthday is June 27).
That is about it for this week. Overall a great week, thanks to Andrew’s good news, decent snow-free weather, and other stuff...I am grateful for the way God worked on Sunday morning, healing a friendship rift between me and a friend. Good work there, Big Guy in the Sky.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Sleeping out back with Jesus
People that come into my office (the place where I work, I don’t have an office at home or church) never seem to know what they want. And they wait until the end of the day to come in every day. My co-workers and I say that they are getting their desks cleared off, but piling it all on our desks. And they wait until late on Fridays. That is the worst. They wait until 4:15 on a Friday afternoon to bring in work, which screws up our weekends. But at least their desk is clear, their workload is lessened. Isn’t that all that matters?
Recently some of the young people I am acquainted with brought up an interesting point. They worry about where they are going when they die. Now, at least in my personal beliefs, if you believe in Christ and have the assurance that you forgiven of your sins, then worrying about whether you end up on the up or down escalator should not be a problem.
And then there are the people who wait their entire lives to make some sort of decision about their beliefs when it comes to faith. Notice I say faith, not religion. My simple point today is this: Do not wait until it is too late to know where your soul is ending up someday. The Jesus I worship is pretty easy-going. He died for you, for your sins, and for your worries about the future. You do not have to wait until 4:30 on the day of your death to make some sort of decision about where you end up standing in line. And if you do not know what you want, well...here is a simple choice. Heaven...paradise, no more worries, no more tears, or hell.
A man dies and goes to heaven. Jesus greets him at the gates and says: “Welcome home, would you like to see your mansion that I have prepared especially for you?” and the man is perplexed by this, he just does not seem so sure about this mansion. He looks at Jesus and says in response: “I do not want a mansion, I would not know what to do in some great big house, you got anything else?
And Jesus is surprised by this, but he responds. “I actually have a stable out back, the roof is barely there, but it is so comfortable there. The breeze that comes through it is so comforting, and at night you can lie there and look up at all the stars. It is where I stay, you are welcome to join me there.” Do you want to guess where the man slept from then on? He stayed where he was welcomed, comfortable, and relaxed. Isn’t that what we all want in the end?
Recently some of the young people I am acquainted with brought up an interesting point. They worry about where they are going when they die. Now, at least in my personal beliefs, if you believe in Christ and have the assurance that you forgiven of your sins, then worrying about whether you end up on the up or down escalator should not be a problem.
And then there are the people who wait their entire lives to make some sort of decision about their beliefs when it comes to faith. Notice I say faith, not religion. My simple point today is this: Do not wait until it is too late to know where your soul is ending up someday. The Jesus I worship is pretty easy-going. He died for you, for your sins, and for your worries about the future. You do not have to wait until 4:30 on the day of your death to make some sort of decision about where you end up standing in line. And if you do not know what you want, well...here is a simple choice. Heaven...paradise, no more worries, no more tears, or hell.
A man dies and goes to heaven. Jesus greets him at the gates and says: “Welcome home, would you like to see your mansion that I have prepared especially for you?” and the man is perplexed by this, he just does not seem so sure about this mansion. He looks at Jesus and says in response: “I do not want a mansion, I would not know what to do in some great big house, you got anything else?
And Jesus is surprised by this, but he responds. “I actually have a stable out back, the roof is barely there, but it is so comfortable there. The breeze that comes through it is so comforting, and at night you can lie there and look up at all the stars. It is where I stay, you are welcome to join me there.” Do you want to guess where the man slept from then on? He stayed where he was welcomed, comfortable, and relaxed. Isn’t that what we all want in the end?
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
The Horse Story
Luke 3:7 (The Message)
7-9When crowds of people came out for baptism because it was the popular thing to do, John exploded: "Brood of snakes! What do you think you're doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to deflect God's judgment? It's your life that must change, not your skin. And don't think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as 'father.' Being a child of Abraham is neither here nor there—children of Abraham are a dime a dozen. God can make children from stones if he wants. What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? Because if it's deadwood, it goes on the fire."
Monday evening was pretty much shaping up to be a typical night. Kim was off work that day, so Andrew and her were at home. I was driving by myself, and had just left Rochester when the evening changed. About a mile out of town two horses ran in front of my car, both without reins and unbridled. I immediately called the police and turned the car around, I guess I believed I could somehow stop the horses from running out into traffic. As I stopped the car in the middle of the four lane highway, one of the horses was hit by a car, or the horse hit the car, it really did not matter at that moment. I watched the horse fly at least 30 feet into the air and then hit the pavement with a sickening crash. I ran up and pinned the horse down at his neck, a trick I honestly learned from watching westerns. The police and other people showed up and helped, and eventually a veterinarian came and eased the horse’s pain by putting him to sleep. Pastor and Vicki drove by, and Vicki told Pastor, “I think that was Kevin!” I left an hour after witnessing the accident, colder and very upset. I stopped at Edinburg, got coffee, and washed my hands. And was so very ready to be home.
At one point, the owner noticed that I had my eyes shut and was talking softly to myself. She asked if I was praying, and I replied in the affirmative. She thanked me for that. And why not? This was one of God’s creatures, and he was suffering so much. I had done the same thing over the last year for my uncle Roger and for my mom. It has really started to bother me, watching something or someone so complex, so well crafted, destroyed by pain. I love God, but I don’t understand pain, and this may be one of the biggest mysteries I cannot find answers to when I ask.
John the Baptist became one of my favorite people in the Bible about a year ago. I started to realize that John was put on the earth for one thing, and that was to announce the arrival of Jesus. I preached on that subject, asking the question, “what if you were only put here for one reason?” “What if, God decided that your whole purpose was to save one life, or change one person’s attitude about life, or to give someone meaning?” And that was it, there was really nothing else left to accomplish. Go ahead, marry, have babies, work at your job, drive your car, watch some t.v., but you fulfilled your purpose years ago.
It is a hard idea to grasp. But it makes John so much more impressive. Because he knew what his life held, what his future would turn out like, and he worked even harder to fulfill what God had in mind for him. This is why he tells the people who came down for the “show” to change their lives, because if it is deadwood, then it is going to burn.
How do people who are not living their lives in “a full blown Christian mode” handle pain? How do they handle grief? I will be honest with you, I hated 2008 and 2009, and I am glad they are over. They were rough, they were extremely taxing, and they stunk. Between losing family, losing our house in Taylorville, the former governor making this state a joke, and every other problem, 2008 and 2009 just really blew chunks. And the horse, that was the capper. I didn’t sleep for two nights because I kept seeing the horse, and even as I wrote this, it still remained fresh in my mind.
So why this story and this scripture to start off the new year? Because the owner said something that made me think of the words John spoke to the crowd that day. “This isn’t the first time they have gotten out, it’s my fault, I should have fixed that fence.” It's your life that must change, not your skin. A life is gone because you did not fix a fence, and even today, as Kim and I drove by the farm on the way to work, the fence is still not fixed. Is there not a lesson to be learned here? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to deflect God's judgment? Don’t whitewash the fence, fix it. You still have another horse, aren’t you for a minute worried about it? John tells the crowd they should worry, because nothing, not even their claims of relationship to Abraham, are going to help them.
Try that right now. Claim to know the former governor, see how far it gets you. Jesus himself reminds us in Mark 10:23 (The Message)
23-25Looking at his disciples, Jesus said, "Do you have any idea how difficult it is for people who 'have it all' to enter God's kingdom?" The disciples couldn't believe what they were hearing, but Jesus kept on: "You can't imagine how difficult. I'd say it's easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye than for the rich to get into God's kingdom."
People who have it all will find out how difficult it is to enter. Because their fences are in disarray, their hedges are askew, and their lives are not green and growing. And they cannot find anything to fill that void in their hearts. It is just another horse, another child, another car, more money, more worries.
And John advises the people accordingly. You want to save your horse, your children, your lives. Then change. Nothing else you do matters. Baptism is not the answer. Change is the answer. But for some it does not come easy. You want to save the horse, the kids, the way you live,
then it is time to rebuild the fence. It is time to realize that things have to change. But it means real work. It means that on a cold rainy day you may have to go outside and work. It may mean dirty work, around people you may not like, but you have to get over prejudices and look towards the big picture.
That’s just the way it is.
There is not another exit to take.
There is no other television show on tonight.
Real change has to take place.
Baptism, trips to the altar, giving to the poor, it all means nothing if the heart is still stoic and hardened.
That’s all I have.
7-9When crowds of people came out for baptism because it was the popular thing to do, John exploded: "Brood of snakes! What do you think you're doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to deflect God's judgment? It's your life that must change, not your skin. And don't think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as 'father.' Being a child of Abraham is neither here nor there—children of Abraham are a dime a dozen. God can make children from stones if he wants. What counts is your life. Is it green and blossoming? Because if it's deadwood, it goes on the fire."
Monday evening was pretty much shaping up to be a typical night. Kim was off work that day, so Andrew and her were at home. I was driving by myself, and had just left Rochester when the evening changed. About a mile out of town two horses ran in front of my car, both without reins and unbridled. I immediately called the police and turned the car around, I guess I believed I could somehow stop the horses from running out into traffic. As I stopped the car in the middle of the four lane highway, one of the horses was hit by a car, or the horse hit the car, it really did not matter at that moment. I watched the horse fly at least 30 feet into the air and then hit the pavement with a sickening crash. I ran up and pinned the horse down at his neck, a trick I honestly learned from watching westerns. The police and other people showed up and helped, and eventually a veterinarian came and eased the horse’s pain by putting him to sleep. Pastor and Vicki drove by, and Vicki told Pastor, “I think that was Kevin!” I left an hour after witnessing the accident, colder and very upset. I stopped at Edinburg, got coffee, and washed my hands. And was so very ready to be home.
At one point, the owner noticed that I had my eyes shut and was talking softly to myself. She asked if I was praying, and I replied in the affirmative. She thanked me for that. And why not? This was one of God’s creatures, and he was suffering so much. I had done the same thing over the last year for my uncle Roger and for my mom. It has really started to bother me, watching something or someone so complex, so well crafted, destroyed by pain. I love God, but I don’t understand pain, and this may be one of the biggest mysteries I cannot find answers to when I ask.
John the Baptist became one of my favorite people in the Bible about a year ago. I started to realize that John was put on the earth for one thing, and that was to announce the arrival of Jesus. I preached on that subject, asking the question, “what if you were only put here for one reason?” “What if, God decided that your whole purpose was to save one life, or change one person’s attitude about life, or to give someone meaning?” And that was it, there was really nothing else left to accomplish. Go ahead, marry, have babies, work at your job, drive your car, watch some t.v., but you fulfilled your purpose years ago.
It is a hard idea to grasp. But it makes John so much more impressive. Because he knew what his life held, what his future would turn out like, and he worked even harder to fulfill what God had in mind for him. This is why he tells the people who came down for the “show” to change their lives, because if it is deadwood, then it is going to burn.
How do people who are not living their lives in “a full blown Christian mode” handle pain? How do they handle grief? I will be honest with you, I hated 2008 and 2009, and I am glad they are over. They were rough, they were extremely taxing, and they stunk. Between losing family, losing our house in Taylorville, the former governor making this state a joke, and every other problem, 2008 and 2009 just really blew chunks. And the horse, that was the capper. I didn’t sleep for two nights because I kept seeing the horse, and even as I wrote this, it still remained fresh in my mind.
So why this story and this scripture to start off the new year? Because the owner said something that made me think of the words John spoke to the crowd that day. “This isn’t the first time they have gotten out, it’s my fault, I should have fixed that fence.” It's your life that must change, not your skin. A life is gone because you did not fix a fence, and even today, as Kim and I drove by the farm on the way to work, the fence is still not fixed. Is there not a lesson to be learned here? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to deflect God's judgment? Don’t whitewash the fence, fix it. You still have another horse, aren’t you for a minute worried about it? John tells the crowd they should worry, because nothing, not even their claims of relationship to Abraham, are going to help them.
Try that right now. Claim to know the former governor, see how far it gets you. Jesus himself reminds us in Mark 10:23 (The Message)
23-25Looking at his disciples, Jesus said, "Do you have any idea how difficult it is for people who 'have it all' to enter God's kingdom?" The disciples couldn't believe what they were hearing, but Jesus kept on: "You can't imagine how difficult. I'd say it's easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye than for the rich to get into God's kingdom."
People who have it all will find out how difficult it is to enter. Because their fences are in disarray, their hedges are askew, and their lives are not green and growing. And they cannot find anything to fill that void in their hearts. It is just another horse, another child, another car, more money, more worries.
And John advises the people accordingly. You want to save your horse, your children, your lives. Then change. Nothing else you do matters. Baptism is not the answer. Change is the answer. But for some it does not come easy. You want to save the horse, the kids, the way you live,
then it is time to rebuild the fence. It is time to realize that things have to change. But it means real work. It means that on a cold rainy day you may have to go outside and work. It may mean dirty work, around people you may not like, but you have to get over prejudices and look towards the big picture.
That’s just the way it is.
There is not another exit to take.
There is no other television show on tonight.
Real change has to take place.
Baptism, trips to the altar, giving to the poor, it all means nothing if the heart is still stoic and hardened.
That’s all I have.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Randomicity
I thought that this week I would share some just random things with you.
I have all kinds of ideas what to write on each week, here are a few that I have decided against:
I work in the Illinois State Capitol. When people walk into our bathroom they are almost always amazed by the size and (I guess) magnificence of the room. What will they think of Heaven? Honestly, I could not figure out where to go with this past the initial thought so I stopped.
What is love? (yep, I could not come up with anything for this one, except for the words, “Baby, dont hurt me, dont hurt me, no more). Stupid “Night at the Roxbury” guys.
The good things about Facebook and MySpace. This idea seemed good until I realized that no one is really using MySpace anymore. And Facebook annoys me too much to come up with a lot of good ideas.
It is really hard to come up with topics every week. We always seem to have good services on Sunday a.m., but how often can I write about them without possibly boring everyone to death? One friend responded to me by saying, and I am quoting word for word: “Wow, I wish I went to your church because ours seem to consistently suck, and yours is starting to make me crazy jealous.” “Is it always that good there, because I am just not buying it.” I responded with: “It’s not perfect, just forgiven.” He did not get the joke.
I want to recommend “So You Don’t Want to go to Church Anymore”. Great book, but it is not a way to get out of going to church, it is a tool to help you change the way you go to church.
I love Toby Mac’s new C.D., “Tonight” and can say, even at almost 47 years old, I love it. Love the new Stryper (they are 25 years old and I feel old) and the new Switchfoot c.d.’s as well.
Have you seen “The Hurt Locker” yet? I am so sick of all the hype about Avatar that I don’t even remotely want to see it. But I loved Hurt Locker. Andrew and I also watched The Cove, about the murder of dolphins in a small lagoon in Japan. It is terrifying, true, and incredibly sad. I will never, ever, go to SeaWorld or any dolphin show again. Kudos to the people who braved death to make this film.
I got my new Bible from NavPress the other day. They are awesome and told me to let them know if someone needs a bible from now on to let them know. I really appreciate how quickly they responded.
I love our Pastor. He is a true man of God, he gives until it hurts, and I believe he is a true example of Jesus. If you are ever in the Pana area, stop by and meet him. He is unique, fun, short, stubby-like, and quite likeable. He makes visitors feel welcome and the oldtimers feel appreciated. That is it for this week. Keep me in prayer, as health issues are weighing me down (in addition to weight issues). But, I am so grateful for Kim and Andrew, Bill and Ivy and Sheila, my family in Pana and other places (Thorton and NIU always), my good friends, my church family, and so much more. I work with some awesome people, my car seems to be running okay, and overall, life is good. What more can I ask for?
I have all kinds of ideas what to write on each week, here are a few that I have decided against:
I work in the Illinois State Capitol. When people walk into our bathroom they are almost always amazed by the size and (I guess) magnificence of the room. What will they think of Heaven? Honestly, I could not figure out where to go with this past the initial thought so I stopped.
What is love? (yep, I could not come up with anything for this one, except for the words, “Baby, dont hurt me, dont hurt me, no more). Stupid “Night at the Roxbury” guys.
The good things about Facebook and MySpace. This idea seemed good until I realized that no one is really using MySpace anymore. And Facebook annoys me too much to come up with a lot of good ideas.
It is really hard to come up with topics every week. We always seem to have good services on Sunday a.m., but how often can I write about them without possibly boring everyone to death? One friend responded to me by saying, and I am quoting word for word: “Wow, I wish I went to your church because ours seem to consistently suck, and yours is starting to make me crazy jealous.” “Is it always that good there, because I am just not buying it.” I responded with: “It’s not perfect, just forgiven.” He did not get the joke.
I want to recommend “So You Don’t Want to go to Church Anymore”. Great book, but it is not a way to get out of going to church, it is a tool to help you change the way you go to church.
I love Toby Mac’s new C.D., “Tonight” and can say, even at almost 47 years old, I love it. Love the new Stryper (they are 25 years old and I feel old) and the new Switchfoot c.d.’s as well.
Have you seen “The Hurt Locker” yet? I am so sick of all the hype about Avatar that I don’t even remotely want to see it. But I loved Hurt Locker. Andrew and I also watched The Cove, about the murder of dolphins in a small lagoon in Japan. It is terrifying, true, and incredibly sad. I will never, ever, go to SeaWorld or any dolphin show again. Kudos to the people who braved death to make this film.
I got my new Bible from NavPress the other day. They are awesome and told me to let them know if someone needs a bible from now on to let them know. I really appreciate how quickly they responded.
I love our Pastor. He is a true man of God, he gives until it hurts, and I believe he is a true example of Jesus. If you are ever in the Pana area, stop by and meet him. He is unique, fun, short, stubby-like, and quite likeable. He makes visitors feel welcome and the oldtimers feel appreciated. That is it for this week. Keep me in prayer, as health issues are weighing me down (in addition to weight issues). But, I am so grateful for Kim and Andrew, Bill and Ivy and Sheila, my family in Pana and other places (Thorton and NIU always), my good friends, my church family, and so much more. I work with some awesome people, my car seems to be running okay, and overall, life is good. What more can I ask for?
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Update to give it away post.
I just got word from NavPress, the publishers of my recently given-away Bible, that they are sending me a new Bible to replace mine (Cayla's now). What an awesome company.
Give it away, give it away, give it away, NOW (I love the Chili Peppers)
What a strange week it has been, and it started last Sunday. Here is how it began.
I gave away my Bible last Sunday. I really liked that Bible. The service was good, actually really good. There were people I had not seen in a while, and I was really glad to see them. I saw some incredible maturity in some of our teenagers. The praise band was incredible, even though Anthony’s amp was loud. But I am so glad he is coming, and bringing people with him, that a loud amp can be overlooked. It was awesome, overall.
Did I mention I gave away my Bible? Man, that was tough. It could have been a typical service, but it wasn’t. Pastor did things differently, and there was incredible spirit over the place. I guess I could sound all churchy and say “God’s Holy Spirit moved across the congregation in a mighty wave” but I don’t talk that way. It was just an incredible morning service. Maybe some of us needed that to suppress the guilt would were going to feel later on when we missed evening service because of the Super Bowl. (it is kind of sad, I don’t even like either team, I just like the commercials but I stayed home anyway). But the service became incredible, people caring for one another, praying with one another, hugs, laughter, tears, support. I love those kind of services.
Except for the whole Bible giveaway thing. Those things don’t grow on trees (well, I guess they are trees, so technically...) Honestly, I have no problem with giving away my bible. I have several of them. Over the years I have bought them because of version differences, or I like the translation, or they were on sale, or they were gifts, so I have several. I guess I want to know what happens to them after they are gone. I want it to mean something. I want the person to whom I gave it to be the next Billy Graham or Martin Luther or Allen Ebbler (owww...my stomach hurts from laughing here). I want to know that they enjoyed it the way I had, that they in turn gave it away. That would be kind of cool. And then they wrote a blog that few people read. And then they made fun of their short pastor in that blog....
Anyway...I loved the service, gave away my Bible, liked the Betty White/Abe Vigoda commercial and the screaming chickens for Denny’s, have been having asthma attacks, my back is hurting, I am going to the fish and boat show in St. Louis with Glenn tomorrow, may see the Wolfman movie, am taking my wife to a Valentines dinner somewhere (Pastabilities maybe, and without Andrew (heaven forbid)) and I gave away my bible. Not a bad week after all.
I gave away my Bible last Sunday. I really liked that Bible. The service was good, actually really good. There were people I had not seen in a while, and I was really glad to see them. I saw some incredible maturity in some of our teenagers. The praise band was incredible, even though Anthony’s amp was loud. But I am so glad he is coming, and bringing people with him, that a loud amp can be overlooked. It was awesome, overall.
Did I mention I gave away my Bible? Man, that was tough. It could have been a typical service, but it wasn’t. Pastor did things differently, and there was incredible spirit over the place. I guess I could sound all churchy and say “God’s Holy Spirit moved across the congregation in a mighty wave” but I don’t talk that way. It was just an incredible morning service. Maybe some of us needed that to suppress the guilt would were going to feel later on when we missed evening service because of the Super Bowl. (it is kind of sad, I don’t even like either team, I just like the commercials but I stayed home anyway). But the service became incredible, people caring for one another, praying with one another, hugs, laughter, tears, support. I love those kind of services.
Except for the whole Bible giveaway thing. Those things don’t grow on trees (well, I guess they are trees, so technically...) Honestly, I have no problem with giving away my bible. I have several of them. Over the years I have bought them because of version differences, or I like the translation, or they were on sale, or they were gifts, so I have several. I guess I want to know what happens to them after they are gone. I want it to mean something. I want the person to whom I gave it to be the next Billy Graham or Martin Luther or Allen Ebbler (owww...my stomach hurts from laughing here). I want to know that they enjoyed it the way I had, that they in turn gave it away. That would be kind of cool. And then they wrote a blog that few people read. And then they made fun of their short pastor in that blog....
Anyway...I loved the service, gave away my Bible, liked the Betty White/Abe Vigoda commercial and the screaming chickens for Denny’s, have been having asthma attacks, my back is hurting, I am going to the fish and boat show in St. Louis with Glenn tomorrow, may see the Wolfman movie, am taking my wife to a Valentines dinner somewhere (Pastabilities maybe, and without Andrew (heaven forbid)) and I gave away my bible. Not a bad week after all.
Monday, February 8, 2010
The New Andrew
A few years ago my wife and I made a really big decision that has changed everything about us ever since.
His name is Andrew.
When we first met him, it was at a lunch date with our pastor and his wife. And somehow, all these kids were involved. In addition to the pastor’s daughter and son, there was the son’s then girlfriend, her sister, the daughter’s friend, another friend, another friend, and the son’s friend, Andrew. I called him ski cap because of this cap he wore, constantly. It was black with a skull in the middle. I immediately hated it.
Somehow Andrew and I were instant friends. I don’t know why. We did not have much in common at the time. The two things though, were church and wrestling. WWE, not the other kind.
So, one Saturday I invited Andrew to Taylorville to our home to stay over until church on Sunday. We attend church in Pana and lived in Taylorville, making the 18 mile trek on Sundays and Wednesdays. (How we ended up at the Pana church is a story for another blog time). Andrew came down, we watched Saturday Night’s Main Event and TNA, and a trend was started. Every weekend after that, Andrew would call, and we would head to Pana to get him. I eventually moved our guest bed up from the basement and made Andrew a room out of our office. I guess couples that do not have kids do that, make their spare bedrooms either guest rooms or offices. Ours was for Pampered Chef and AFLAC, and it held all the junk we did not want in the living room or dining room.
So Andrew becomes a part of our lives. Finally, one Friday night at the Dairy Queen in Pana I asked Andrew what he thought about us adopting him. It seemed that he was kind of an orphan (in an odd way) and we had come to love him. Plus, if you meet him, you would kind of swear that he and I are related. Well, that did not work out, his mom did not want us to adopt him, but it did work out anyway, just not the way we wanted.
We decided to move to Pana so Andrew could live with us and finish high school where he was comfortable. At the time he had long hair, plus he has gauged ears (holes, the boy has holes in his ears, he puts pencils through them, seriously) and the principal and superintendent of schools both liked him. So we put the Taylorville house up for sale (yet another story), and bought a house in Pana (even further from our jobs in Springfield).
And Andrew ended up being our son, in whatever weird way it happened. And I have watched him grow up in so many ways.
Recently though, I have seen a maturity that is truly beautiful in “the boy”. He has developed a heart for others, and instead of taking party trips on spring break or Christmas or summer breaks, he is going on missions trips. So far, he has been to Mexico, Minnesota, and wants to return to both, in addition to Kenya this summer. He wants to teach elementary school. Little kids love him, and he loves them. He worries about people, and loves unconditionally much of the time. He is reading books on his faith, and he does not like to read. And he cares deeply about his friends. He wants the best for them, and yearns to be around them so much. He is something to watch. (Straight way dude!) For a kid that just a few years ago was more worried about his ears, his hair, his tattoos, his hackysack, his music...now he is more concerned with people’s hearts. It is truly something beautiful to see happen. He is not my son, biologically, but I am a proud father anyway. He is everything I could want in a child, and I love him so much.
So the lesson from this post: Watch the people you are around, they may occasionally surprise you by becoming a whole new person while you are watching.
His name is Andrew.
When we first met him, it was at a lunch date with our pastor and his wife. And somehow, all these kids were involved. In addition to the pastor’s daughter and son, there was the son’s then girlfriend, her sister, the daughter’s friend, another friend, another friend, and the son’s friend, Andrew. I called him ski cap because of this cap he wore, constantly. It was black with a skull in the middle. I immediately hated it.
Somehow Andrew and I were instant friends. I don’t know why. We did not have much in common at the time. The two things though, were church and wrestling. WWE, not the other kind.
So, one Saturday I invited Andrew to Taylorville to our home to stay over until church on Sunday. We attend church in Pana and lived in Taylorville, making the 18 mile trek on Sundays and Wednesdays. (How we ended up at the Pana church is a story for another blog time). Andrew came down, we watched Saturday Night’s Main Event and TNA, and a trend was started. Every weekend after that, Andrew would call, and we would head to Pana to get him. I eventually moved our guest bed up from the basement and made Andrew a room out of our office. I guess couples that do not have kids do that, make their spare bedrooms either guest rooms or offices. Ours was for Pampered Chef and AFLAC, and it held all the junk we did not want in the living room or dining room.
So Andrew becomes a part of our lives. Finally, one Friday night at the Dairy Queen in Pana I asked Andrew what he thought about us adopting him. It seemed that he was kind of an orphan (in an odd way) and we had come to love him. Plus, if you meet him, you would kind of swear that he and I are related. Well, that did not work out, his mom did not want us to adopt him, but it did work out anyway, just not the way we wanted.
We decided to move to Pana so Andrew could live with us and finish high school where he was comfortable. At the time he had long hair, plus he has gauged ears (holes, the boy has holes in his ears, he puts pencils through them, seriously) and the principal and superintendent of schools both liked him. So we put the Taylorville house up for sale (yet another story), and bought a house in Pana (even further from our jobs in Springfield).
And Andrew ended up being our son, in whatever weird way it happened. And I have watched him grow up in so many ways.
Recently though, I have seen a maturity that is truly beautiful in “the boy”. He has developed a heart for others, and instead of taking party trips on spring break or Christmas or summer breaks, he is going on missions trips. So far, he has been to Mexico, Minnesota, and wants to return to both, in addition to Kenya this summer. He wants to teach elementary school. Little kids love him, and he loves them. He worries about people, and loves unconditionally much of the time. He is reading books on his faith, and he does not like to read. And he cares deeply about his friends. He wants the best for them, and yearns to be around them so much. He is something to watch. (Straight way dude!) For a kid that just a few years ago was more worried about his ears, his hair, his tattoos, his hackysack, his music...now he is more concerned with people’s hearts. It is truly something beautiful to see happen. He is not my son, biologically, but I am a proud father anyway. He is everything I could want in a child, and I love him so much.
So the lesson from this post: Watch the people you are around, they may occasionally surprise you by becoming a whole new person while you are watching.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Know what you want before you go shopping!
I have recently come to the conclusion that about 80% of the people who come into the office where I work don’t have a clue what they want when they walk through our doors. Maybe they are hoping that we can offer guidance on the bills and resolutions they want the House and Senate to pass. I cannot imagine walking into any situation as blind as they seem to be.
But then I got to thinking about another situation. Recently a dear acquaintance read the book “So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Anymore” by Wayne Jacobsen and Dave Coleman and now believes she does not have to attend church to have a complete relationship with Christ. The Bible is pretty clear about “not forsaking fellowship with others” so we need to associate with like-minded folk as much as possible. And the real problem is we already ALL forgo too much in our relationship with Christ. This is supposed to be a friendship, He is supposed to be our brother, yet, for a lot of us, we barely ever talk to Him, we forsake devotional time, prayer time, and other opportunities because life gets in the way. Can we afford to forsake church?
Church, the people or the building, gets on everyone’s nerves once in a while. The temperature is not to our liking, some kid is screaming during the service, someone new (God forbid!) has our seat, or there is that thing called reality. Finances are strained, the weather is awful, the kids or the wife is sick, our back hurts, we feel like staying home and watching football, and sometimes we just do not like the person who is speaking. I recently did an all-night lock-in, and quite honestly I felt like doing nothing for a week afterwards. How do adults make it to church two hours after a lock-in? How does pastor make it to Sunday morning service after being at the hospital all night with a dying person? It comes down to this: remembering the friendship, keeping the commitment.
Like the people that come into the office looking for guidance, that is what we are all looking for when we go to church. Our problem, like theirs, is that we are not honest enough to admit it. Imagine if you walked into church this Sunday morning, and Pastor walks up and says “How are you?” and you grab his microphone off his head or lapel, and you scream to everyone that can hear, “How am I, let me tell you, I am hurting today, my kid is sick, I cleaned up cat puke four times before I left the house and expect more when I get home, the bills are late, we have no money until payday and we need gas, there are members of my family that do not speak to me over past hurts, I have to diet, I need friends, I need tearcatchers, please help me.” What do you think would happen? First, there would be people to help you, to listen, to let you borrow money, to catch your tears. But there would also be people wanting the microphone after you were done. That is what true church is about: friendship and commitment.
So if you are thinking about leaving, please stay. Not everyone is a jerk. And if you are tired of looking at the horse’s butt, walk around to the front of the horse. For, believe it or not, there are people at your church just like you. Hurting, needing, craving more. Maybe you do not go for yourself this week, maybe you go for someone else.
But then I got to thinking about another situation. Recently a dear acquaintance read the book “So You Don’t Want to Go to Church Anymore” by Wayne Jacobsen and Dave Coleman and now believes she does not have to attend church to have a complete relationship with Christ. The Bible is pretty clear about “not forsaking fellowship with others” so we need to associate with like-minded folk as much as possible. And the real problem is we already ALL forgo too much in our relationship with Christ. This is supposed to be a friendship, He is supposed to be our brother, yet, for a lot of us, we barely ever talk to Him, we forsake devotional time, prayer time, and other opportunities because life gets in the way. Can we afford to forsake church?
Church, the people or the building, gets on everyone’s nerves once in a while. The temperature is not to our liking, some kid is screaming during the service, someone new (God forbid!) has our seat, or there is that thing called reality. Finances are strained, the weather is awful, the kids or the wife is sick, our back hurts, we feel like staying home and watching football, and sometimes we just do not like the person who is speaking. I recently did an all-night lock-in, and quite honestly I felt like doing nothing for a week afterwards. How do adults make it to church two hours after a lock-in? How does pastor make it to Sunday morning service after being at the hospital all night with a dying person? It comes down to this: remembering the friendship, keeping the commitment.
Like the people that come into the office looking for guidance, that is what we are all looking for when we go to church. Our problem, like theirs, is that we are not honest enough to admit it. Imagine if you walked into church this Sunday morning, and Pastor walks up and says “How are you?” and you grab his microphone off his head or lapel, and you scream to everyone that can hear, “How am I, let me tell you, I am hurting today, my kid is sick, I cleaned up cat puke four times before I left the house and expect more when I get home, the bills are late, we have no money until payday and we need gas, there are members of my family that do not speak to me over past hurts, I have to diet, I need friends, I need tearcatchers, please help me.” What do you think would happen? First, there would be people to help you, to listen, to let you borrow money, to catch your tears. But there would also be people wanting the microphone after you were done. That is what true church is about: friendship and commitment.
So if you are thinking about leaving, please stay. Not everyone is a jerk. And if you are tired of looking at the horse’s butt, walk around to the front of the horse. For, believe it or not, there are people at your church just like you. Hurting, needing, craving more. Maybe you do not go for yourself this week, maybe you go for someone else.
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