A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Can we know God without knowing peace?
Possible, of course, but highly unlikely.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
All this night my heart rejoices.
You abide with me.
All this night my heart rejoices.
Morning will bring your newness into my life.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Here’s mud in your eye.”
[The saying probably comes from one of His healings, but He didn’t say it.]
D. Blog: The Blessing of “the Fall”
The state of innocence, while charming, would deprive us of knowing the consequences of evil. It would also deprive us of the ability to recognize goodness, or grace, or beauty or fulfillment in this life. Innocence recognizes none of that. It only experiences, but makes no determination of good – until it encounters evil (in the form of that hot stovetop, perhaps).
One of my pastors reminded her congregation that without wounds there is no resurrection – no new life, no rebirth. Without a “fall” we would be oblivious to God’s goodness to us.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Sunday, March 30, 2008
My Old Church
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Religion that justifies killing in God’s name is a shield for tribalism; it contains no spiritual core.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Nuthatches flit at the feeder.
Morning light filters green through the trees.
Overnight rains cleared the air and refreshed plants and soil.
And I, lowly or grand as I am, get to enjoy these marvels.
Life is absolute blessing.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“What do I think of Roman civilization? It might be a good idea.”
[Gandhi got the idea from Him? I don’t think so…]
D. Blog: Have You Heard the One About…?
A man had lived stranded and alone on an island for many years, surviving on grit and ingenuity, even constructing a few small buildings. Finally, a passing ship noticed the buildings and sent a crew ashore to find out about the buildings that should not have been on a deserted island.
The man happily greeted the shore party, and they asked him to show them around and tell about how he’d managed to live those 10 years on his own. He took them to one building and told them about his “house.” A bed, a table, a stool, an improvised water container.
The second building, he explained, was his church. He was a faithful Christian and regular worship attender. He liked his church – the sermons were pretty good, if he did say so himself.
“And what about the structure over there?” they asked as they departed the small hut.
“Oh, that’s my old church,” he replied.
[Shared in appreciation for Andy Summers, who died recently, and loved to tell jokes and stories, including this one I heard in one of his Sunday school classes.]
Religion that justifies killing in God’s name is a shield for tribalism; it contains no spiritual core.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Nuthatches flit at the feeder.
Morning light filters green through the trees.
Overnight rains cleared the air and refreshed plants and soil.
And I, lowly or grand as I am, get to enjoy these marvels.
Life is absolute blessing.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“What do I think of Roman civilization? It might be a good idea.”
[Gandhi got the idea from Him? I don’t think so…]
D. Blog: Have You Heard the One About…?
A man had lived stranded and alone on an island for many years, surviving on grit and ingenuity, even constructing a few small buildings. Finally, a passing ship noticed the buildings and sent a crew ashore to find out about the buildings that should not have been on a deserted island.
The man happily greeted the shore party, and they asked him to show them around and tell about how he’d managed to live those 10 years on his own. He took them to one building and told them about his “house.” A bed, a table, a stool, an improvised water container.
The second building, he explained, was his church. He was a faithful Christian and regular worship attender. He liked his church – the sermons were pretty good, if he did say so himself.
“And what about the structure over there?” they asked as they departed the small hut.
“Oh, that’s my old church,” he replied.
[Shared in appreciation for Andy Summers, who died recently, and loved to tell jokes and stories, including this one I heard in one of his Sunday school classes.]
Saturday, March 29, 2008
Divine Handiwork
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
If we had peace, political leaders might have to solve the real problems facing the nation.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I saw your handiwork yesterday.
That sunrise was stupendous!
I took a picture that looks very good, but it doesn’t begin to capture the glory of that morning sky.
I saw your handiwork, too, in a man, a military man who converted to pacifism and has worked many years for peace. I feel blessed that he calls me a friend.
Like all your handiwork, these examples of grace give my life much of the abundance that matters.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“My bracket shows Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Final Four.”
[Do you think He had any idea…?]
D. Blog: More Political BumperStickers
- I think, therefore I don’t listen to Rush Limbaugh.
- When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.
- The media are only as liberal as the conservative businesses that own them.
- No flag is large enough to cover the shame of killing innocent people. – Howard Zinn
If we had peace, political leaders might have to solve the real problems facing the nation.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I saw your handiwork yesterday.
That sunrise was stupendous!
I took a picture that looks very good, but it doesn’t begin to capture the glory of that morning sky.
I saw your handiwork, too, in a man, a military man who converted to pacifism and has worked many years for peace. I feel blessed that he calls me a friend.
Like all your handiwork, these examples of grace give my life much of the abundance that matters.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“My bracket shows Matthew, Mark, Luke and John in the Final Four.”
[Do you think He had any idea…?]
D. Blog: More Political BumperStickers
- I think, therefore I don’t listen to Rush Limbaugh.
- When fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross.
- The media are only as liberal as the conservative businesses that own them.
- No flag is large enough to cover the shame of killing innocent people. – Howard Zinn
Friday, March 28, 2008
Political Shenanigans Expected
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
If peace is a 10, why settle for a 1?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Public adulation leads to public execution.
The public can be fickle.
The public will deny you, misrepresent you, and, when it suits them, try to bury you.
But you are very much alive, no matter what the public thinks.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Going once, going twice, sold for 30 denarii – the burial shroud of King David!”
[No, this was not how He financed the last supper…]
D. Blog: Word of the Week
“Shenanigans” [from Wikipedia]
A shenanigan is a deceitful confidence trick, or mischief causing discomfort or annoyance. The term is usually used in the plural, shenanigans. However, in some regions, shenanigans can merely refer to harmless mischievous play, especially by children involving broomsticks. It should be noted that the word itself is considered humorous, because of its unique sound.
The origin of the word is unknown but possibly originates from the Irish sionnachuighim, meaning "I play the fox."
If peace is a 10, why settle for a 1?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Public adulation leads to public execution.
The public can be fickle.
The public will deny you, misrepresent you, and, when it suits them, try to bury you.
But you are very much alive, no matter what the public thinks.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Going once, going twice, sold for 30 denarii – the burial shroud of King David!”
[No, this was not how He financed the last supper…]
D. Blog: Word of the Week
“Shenanigans” [from Wikipedia]
A shenanigan is a deceitful confidence trick, or mischief causing discomfort or annoyance. The term is usually used in the plural, shenanigans. However, in some regions, shenanigans can merely refer to harmless mischievous play, especially by children involving broomsticks. It should be noted that the word itself is considered humorous, because of its unique sound.
The origin of the word is unknown but possibly originates from the Irish sionnachuighim, meaning "I play the fox."
Thursday, March 27, 2008
Going for Win-Win
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Cain has a lot to answer for, as do those who follow his example.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The love songs we enjoy, they really go out to you, don’t they?
“You light up my life”
“You’re the One”
“How am I supposed to live without you?”
“You’re all I live for”
“Just gimme some kind of sign [God] that you’re mine”
“I love how you love me”
We just thought they were about somebody else.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I’m all about abundance, especially abundant wealth. Do you like my Rolex?”
[Yeah, right…]
D. Blog: March Madness
My basketball playing history (sub-amateur level) draws me to the college basketball tournament each year. I like the emotion, the surprises, the inspired play, the underdogs who turn into Cinderella, the effort and skill that are on display.
This year is particularly interesting for me, as I feel some connection to the top seeds and to this year’s Cinderella. I grew up cheering for the UCLA Bruins. I went to a small college in Kansas, where almost everyone followed the Jayhawks. My brother lives in Memphis and helps me keep tabs on the Tigers. I now live in North Carolina, where the Tarheels maintain dominance in the hearts of most citizens, despite the counter-loyalties to Duke and Tennessee (here in the western part of the state). As for Davidson, that was my brother-in-law’s school, and where he worked and with my sister raised their three children. Who can help but be moved by their comebacks on the first weekend of the tournament?
We speak about madness, and there’s certainly a lot of that surrounding the tournament. But it’s really about hope, about excelling, about applying discipline and skill, about taking the chance to do and be part of something great, about overcoming the insurmountable odds, about seeing some teams rise from desperate situations, from the ashes, from a tomb… to glory.
Cain has a lot to answer for, as do those who follow his example.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The love songs we enjoy, they really go out to you, don’t they?
“You light up my life”
“You’re the One”
“How am I supposed to live without you?”
“You’re all I live for”
“Just gimme some kind of sign [God] that you’re mine”
“I love how you love me”
We just thought they were about somebody else.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I’m all about abundance, especially abundant wealth. Do you like my Rolex?”
[Yeah, right…]
D. Blog: March Madness
My basketball playing history (sub-amateur level) draws me to the college basketball tournament each year. I like the emotion, the surprises, the inspired play, the underdogs who turn into Cinderella, the effort and skill that are on display.
This year is particularly interesting for me, as I feel some connection to the top seeds and to this year’s Cinderella. I grew up cheering for the UCLA Bruins. I went to a small college in Kansas, where almost everyone followed the Jayhawks. My brother lives in Memphis and helps me keep tabs on the Tigers. I now live in North Carolina, where the Tarheels maintain dominance in the hearts of most citizens, despite the counter-loyalties to Duke and Tennessee (here in the western part of the state). As for Davidson, that was my brother-in-law’s school, and where he worked and with my sister raised their three children. Who can help but be moved by their comebacks on the first weekend of the tournament?
We speak about madness, and there’s certainly a lot of that surrounding the tournament. But it’s really about hope, about excelling, about applying discipline and skill, about taking the chance to do and be part of something great, about overcoming the insurmountable odds, about seeing some teams rise from desperate situations, from the ashes, from a tomb… to glory.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
Saying No to Jesus
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
To work for peace is a mark of sanity and a requirement of spiritual maturity.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Spring rains – beautiful.
Sunrise – beautiful.
Spring plants – beautiful.
Spring warmth – beautiful.
Friendships – beautiful.
Creativity – beautiful.
Knowing your care – beautiful, and priceless.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Blessed are you when you pay more attention to how I die than to how I live.”
[One might think it’s there in the Beatitudes, but He never said it!]
D. Blog: Church and State
The city says it will block a ministry to the homeless from continuing to conduct worship and prayer services. Not zoned for that, some neighbors have argued. That’s right. Deprive them of the right to worship as they please, too. Keep them on the streets. And in some other neighborhood.
To work for peace is a mark of sanity and a requirement of spiritual maturity.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Spring rains – beautiful.
Sunrise – beautiful.
Spring plants – beautiful.
Spring warmth – beautiful.
Friendships – beautiful.
Creativity – beautiful.
Knowing your care – beautiful, and priceless.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Blessed are you when you pay more attention to how I die than to how I live.”
[One might think it’s there in the Beatitudes, but He never said it!]
D. Blog: Church and State
The city says it will block a ministry to the homeless from continuing to conduct worship and prayer services. Not zoned for that, some neighbors have argued. That’s right. Deprive them of the right to worship as they please, too. Keep them on the streets. And in some other neighborhood.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
Finding God
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Imagine a world with no more war veterans…
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Earth provides the only sanctuary we need in order to feel your presence and perceive your glory.
The mountains and trees reflect your majesty far better than any human structure can duplicate.
A wildflower says more about you than any sacred text could ever say.
The oceans offer more insight into your vast and changing-yet-changeless nature than any cleric will ever know.
Forgive us for our little boxes of worship.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Never again!!”
[The lost 8th word from the cross, perhaps? No.]
D. Blog: A Haiku
I could not find God
Until I quit seeking
And felt God in my heart.
Imagine a world with no more war veterans…
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Earth provides the only sanctuary we need in order to feel your presence and perceive your glory.
The mountains and trees reflect your majesty far better than any human structure can duplicate.
A wildflower says more about you than any sacred text could ever say.
The oceans offer more insight into your vast and changing-yet-changeless nature than any cleric will ever know.
Forgive us for our little boxes of worship.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Never again!!”
[The lost 8th word from the cross, perhaps? No.]
D. Blog: A Haiku
I could not find God
Until I quit seeking
And felt God in my heart.
Monday, March 24, 2008
Putting Jesus into Place
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peace will not hurt any bottom line that matters.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Who can count the blessings you send?
No one.
Who can repay your kindness?
No one.
Who can comprehend your wisdom?
No one.
Who can match your power?
No one.
Who can understand your mercy?
No one.
Who can divine your love?
Anyone.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Guys, when you go shopping for the Passover meal, see if you can find some of those Dove chocolates to go with the wine – much better than some dry bread.”
[Might get more folks to participate in mass/communion, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Trying to Put Jesus in Place
I heard a great Easter sermon yesterday. How do we answer the question “Where did you put Jesus?” We Christians say He is risen, but then we try to pin Him down, put Him back into a box/tomb. Instead, we should try to go where He is now. We should allow Him to put us where He wants us. Hint: that’s not among the rich and powerful.
Peace will not hurt any bottom line that matters.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Who can count the blessings you send?
No one.
Who can repay your kindness?
No one.
Who can comprehend your wisdom?
No one.
Who can match your power?
No one.
Who can understand your mercy?
No one.
Who can divine your love?
Anyone.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Guys, when you go shopping for the Passover meal, see if you can find some of those Dove chocolates to go with the wine – much better than some dry bread.”
[Might get more folks to participate in mass/communion, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Trying to Put Jesus in Place
I heard a great Easter sermon yesterday. How do we answer the question “Where did you put Jesus?” We Christians say He is risen, but then we try to pin Him down, put Him back into a box/tomb. Instead, we should try to go where He is now. We should allow Him to put us where He wants us. Hint: that’s not among the rich and powerful.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Bunny Hop & Easter Hope
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Individuals sometimes act nobly in the midst of war’s great ignobility.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You put us in the place of tension between life and death, or perhaps in the cycle of life and death. Sometimes it appears like a bleak Saturday, but I know a bright Sunday is on its way. Death comes in so many forms, but then, so does new life arrive in countless forms.
Some people deal in bringing death, in the hope that good/life will come of it. Some deal in bringing new life, in full awareness that death is bound to come.
But then? You’ve taught me: more life surely follows.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I am the Greatest!!!”
[No, He didn’t say it, but we probably would not argue the point if He had.]
D. Blog: On Easter
Baskets of fake grass. Bunnies that bring eggs. Perhaps some new clothes. So much candy as to rival what’s dispensed on Halloween and Valentine’s Day. And if we notice, a cross in the foreground with mystery or superstition in the background.
We’ve pretty well messed up this holiday. How can we possibly connect it with the empty tomb? How can we possibly hear His voice saying death could not silence Him? How can we possibly know His presence in the locked chambers of our minds and hearts?
Yet it happens. He comes to us on our way and we know the cross and the tomb could not put an end to the invasion that Divinity lets loose in our world. The tyranny of evil and death need not rule us.
Individuals sometimes act nobly in the midst of war’s great ignobility.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You put us in the place of tension between life and death, or perhaps in the cycle of life and death. Sometimes it appears like a bleak Saturday, but I know a bright Sunday is on its way. Death comes in so many forms, but then, so does new life arrive in countless forms.
Some people deal in bringing death, in the hope that good/life will come of it. Some deal in bringing new life, in full awareness that death is bound to come.
But then? You’ve taught me: more life surely follows.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I am the Greatest!!!”
[No, He didn’t say it, but we probably would not argue the point if He had.]
D. Blog: On Easter
Baskets of fake grass. Bunnies that bring eggs. Perhaps some new clothes. So much candy as to rival what’s dispensed on Halloween and Valentine’s Day. And if we notice, a cross in the foreground with mystery or superstition in the background.
We’ve pretty well messed up this holiday. How can we possibly connect it with the empty tomb? How can we possibly hear His voice saying death could not silence Him? How can we possibly know His presence in the locked chambers of our minds and hearts?
Yet it happens. He comes to us on our way and we know the cross and the tomb could not put an end to the invasion that Divinity lets loose in our world. The tyranny of evil and death need not rule us.
Saturday, March 22, 2008
What Would Jesus have on His Bumper?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
There’s no time like the present – for peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Some people experience life as if they have been placed in a tomb well before their actual death. Light and hope have left, their screaming rage against their condition has died, and they suffer in the silent gloom.
At the same time, some people experience life as if the ball will last forever. Good friends, good food, lots of laughter, no worries – until the party does end.
These folks need to get together.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Momma didn’t tell me there’d be days like this.”
[No, she didn’t know about Holy Saturday. And no, He didn’t say this – so far as we know.]
D. Blog: Jesus’ Bumperstickers?
- If we kill the innocent, we become the enemy.
- If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention.
- Congress gave huge tax breaks to the rich and all I got was this lousy bumpersticker.
- I’m against the death penalty. Look what happened to Jesus.
There’s no time like the present – for peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Some people experience life as if they have been placed in a tomb well before their actual death. Light and hope have left, their screaming rage against their condition has died, and they suffer in the silent gloom.
At the same time, some people experience life as if the ball will last forever. Good friends, good food, lots of laughter, no worries – until the party does end.
These folks need to get together.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Momma didn’t tell me there’d be days like this.”
[No, she didn’t know about Holy Saturday. And no, He didn’t say this – so far as we know.]
D. Blog: Jesus’ Bumperstickers?
- If we kill the innocent, we become the enemy.
- If you’re not outraged, you’re not paying attention.
- Congress gave huge tax breaks to the rich and all I got was this lousy bumpersticker.
- I’m against the death penalty. Look what happened to Jesus.
Friday, March 21, 2008
On Stormy Seas?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The president says he prays for peace. Once again, actions speak louder than words.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Imagine there’s no hell – no problem.
Imagine there are no angels – okay by me.
Imagine there’s no heaven – I’ll manage just fine, especially as heaven is popularly imagined.
Imagine there’s no God…
I’m sorry, but I just can’t. In my wildest imagining, no God makes no sense.
Despite its problems and suffering, life is too good, too amazing not to include and come from divinity.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Momma said there’d be days like this…”
[The 8th word from the cross? No.]
D. Blog: Idiomatically Speaking
[From Idiomsite.com]
"Under the Weather "
This popular phrase for "ill" dates back to 1827. It is commonly believed that bad weather can make you sick.
A site visitor gave his/her opinion about this idiom: I believe that "under the weather" is an old sailor phrase. When men were sick, they would rest below deck and thus were literally "under" the weather on deck.
Another site visitor gave his/her opinion about this idiom: Moreover, the deck they were under was likely "the weather deck," meaning the most exposed deck on the ship, usually the foredeck (over the seamen's quarters at the front end of the ship) or the quarterdeck (where the helm was located, high for a good view). Either way, if you needed to be sick, you wouldn't want to "toss your cookies" where the wind could toss them back in your face, nor would anyone with you want you to do so. You'd be firmly told to go "under the weather" to be sick.
The president says he prays for peace. Once again, actions speak louder than words.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Imagine there’s no hell – no problem.
Imagine there are no angels – okay by me.
Imagine there’s no heaven – I’ll manage just fine, especially as heaven is popularly imagined.
Imagine there’s no God…
I’m sorry, but I just can’t. In my wildest imagining, no God makes no sense.
Despite its problems and suffering, life is too good, too amazing not to include and come from divinity.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Momma said there’d be days like this…”
[The 8th word from the cross? No.]
D. Blog: Idiomatically Speaking
[From Idiomsite.com]
"Under the Weather "
This popular phrase for "ill" dates back to 1827. It is commonly believed that bad weather can make you sick.
A site visitor gave his/her opinion about this idiom: I believe that "under the weather" is an old sailor phrase. When men were sick, they would rest below deck and thus were literally "under" the weather on deck.
Another site visitor gave his/her opinion about this idiom: Moreover, the deck they were under was likely "the weather deck," meaning the most exposed deck on the ship, usually the foredeck (over the seamen's quarters at the front end of the ship) or the quarterdeck (where the helm was located, high for a good view). Either way, if you needed to be sick, you wouldn't want to "toss your cookies" where the wind could toss them back in your face, nor would anyone with you want you to do so. You'd be firmly told to go "under the weather" to be sick.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Just the Feet, Pete
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
If we want peace, we must study, train and equip ourselves for it as thoroughly as the military does for war.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Minor disappointments cannot cloud the fact that the sun is shining, nor that you love us.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Originally I was thinking along the lines of steak and lobster. But that such extravagance does not suit our movement. So we have bread and wine for this supper together.”
[Oh what a meal it’s been. But He never said this.]
D. Blog: Washing Feet
I heard a minister tell how he became a Christian. He had served in the Korean War, seen horrible things, heard awful stories from soldiers and Koreans alike. God could not exist, he thought, if such atrocities happened.
Back in the US, he settled in Virginia, met a woman, fell in love such that he agreed to go with her to a Maundy Thursday feet-washing service at her church, where he could observe the ritual without participating. As he told the story, when he saw the town banker wash the feet of a poor hog farmer, he recognized it as a glimmer of hope, a sign that God might be at work in the world, an act that proclaimed good news. He wanted to know more...
If we want peace, we must study, train and equip ourselves for it as thoroughly as the military does for war.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Minor disappointments cannot cloud the fact that the sun is shining, nor that you love us.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Originally I was thinking along the lines of steak and lobster. But that such extravagance does not suit our movement. So we have bread and wine for this supper together.”
[Oh what a meal it’s been. But He never said this.]
D. Blog: Washing Feet
I heard a minister tell how he became a Christian. He had served in the Korean War, seen horrible things, heard awful stories from soldiers and Koreans alike. God could not exist, he thought, if such atrocities happened.
Back in the US, he settled in Virginia, met a woman, fell in love such that he agreed to go with her to a Maundy Thursday feet-washing service at her church, where he could observe the ritual without participating. As he told the story, when he saw the town banker wash the feet of a poor hog farmer, he recognized it as a glimmer of hope, a sign that God might be at work in the world, an act that proclaimed good news. He wanted to know more...
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Jeremiah was Right
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Why do the nations so furiously rage together?
Because they know they will perish and hope to prolong their existence through violence.
But length of life is a poor way measure life, even for an empire. The quality of the lives of individual inhabitants is the true measure of its greatness. Only in peace does that quality of life have a chance to flourish.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The hills are alive with the music of life.
The rivers make their way through familiar channels in ever-changing patterns.
My path leads through your fields of magic.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“You money changers pay a lot for setting up your tables here in the temple courtyard. Maybe you should raise your rates.”
[Uh-uh, no way He said that.]
D. Blog: Jeremiah
Perhaps he was right. Perhaps the nation that loses its humility and acts with arrogance as if it is favored by God is doomed. Perhaps the nation that enslaves people who are different from those in power, oppresses those who are poor, discriminates against and humiliates those who sojourn in its midst – perhaps that nation is damned in the sight of God.
Perhaps Jeremiah was also right in offering hope and promise. If a nation re-affirms its place as a people of God, re-commits itself to being a compassionate nation establishing justice within and peace without, to offering hope to other nations and being a good neighbor and seeking peace with all of creation instead of trying to dominate and lord it over others – perhaps that nation is a light that provides hope in the world.
Perhaps Jeremiah was right.
Why do the nations so furiously rage together?
Because they know they will perish and hope to prolong their existence through violence.
But length of life is a poor way measure life, even for an empire. The quality of the lives of individual inhabitants is the true measure of its greatness. Only in peace does that quality of life have a chance to flourish.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The hills are alive with the music of life.
The rivers make their way through familiar channels in ever-changing patterns.
My path leads through your fields of magic.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“You money changers pay a lot for setting up your tables here in the temple courtyard. Maybe you should raise your rates.”
[Uh-uh, no way He said that.]
D. Blog: Jeremiah
Perhaps he was right. Perhaps the nation that loses its humility and acts with arrogance as if it is favored by God is doomed. Perhaps the nation that enslaves people who are different from those in power, oppresses those who are poor, discriminates against and humiliates those who sojourn in its midst – perhaps that nation is damned in the sight of God.
Perhaps Jeremiah was also right in offering hope and promise. If a nation re-affirms its place as a people of God, re-commits itself to being a compassionate nation establishing justice within and peace without, to offering hope to other nations and being a good neighbor and seeking peace with all of creation instead of trying to dominate and lord it over others – perhaps that nation is a light that provides hope in the world.
Perhaps Jeremiah was right.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
The End is Coming!
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
When peace comes, we will have more creative ways to express patriotism. Flag-waving, chants and “support the troops” decals will seem lame. How about: “Love your neighbors – it’s the American way!”
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Time and space cannot contain you.
They cannot contain all of me, either.
Part of me belongs to you alone.
It will survive in you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Did one of you bring the Roman flag to burn at the parade on Sunday?”
[What a demonstration! But He didn’t say this.]
D. Blog: A Haiku Set
The end is near,
Ever and always,
But the day is just beginning.
The day has just begun.
Make the most of it.
The end arrives too soon.
When peace comes, we will have more creative ways to express patriotism. Flag-waving, chants and “support the troops” decals will seem lame. How about: “Love your neighbors – it’s the American way!”
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Time and space cannot contain you.
They cannot contain all of me, either.
Part of me belongs to you alone.
It will survive in you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Did one of you bring the Roman flag to burn at the parade on Sunday?”
[What a demonstration! But He didn’t say this.]
D. Blog: A Haiku Set
The end is near,
Ever and always,
But the day is just beginning.
The day has just begun.
Make the most of it.
The end arrives too soon.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Palm Sunday as Parody
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peace cannot abide in a fist.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
My days overflow with goodness.
You deserve my thanks.
My nights are filled with refreshing sleep.
You deserve my thanks.
My life contains fruitful, enjoyable activity.
You deserve my thanks.
I know a great measure of love and friendship.
You deserve my thanks.
I have learned to share.
You deserve my thanks.
It is indeed a wonderful life.
You have my thanks.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Anybody know of a good tailor in the city? I could use a new robe for the demonstration this week. One without seams would be preferable.”
[Maybe a seamstress? He definitely did not say this.]
D. Blog: Reconsidering Palm Sunday
Yesterday we Christians observed Palm Sunday, recalling when Jesus led a parade into Jerusalem a few days before he was crucified. What struck me in hearing the story this time was that that event, assuming it actually happened, might have been a parody of the imperial parades into the city. It would thus have been making fun of imperial pomp and pointing to the misplaced values, the staggering contrast between Jewish religious values and the values of the Roman empire. It might have been Jesus’ way of saying “the emperor has no clothes,” rather like Jon Stewart of The Daily Show when he ridicules the Bush administration. But empires have no sense of humor, and certainly can’t laugh at themselves nor allow people to make fun of them…
We Christians also look at the story with little or no sense of humor. We see a contrast between the power of the Roman Empire and the power of love, but it’s all very serious. Suppose the procession into Jerusalem was more like a people’s party, however. Imagine it as a festival where the people have a good time mocking the oppressive might of occupying Rome. Not an alternative royalty-in-waiting demonstration, but a reaffirmation of underlying Jewish religious values of justice and peace and freedom despite the harsh realities of Roman occupation.
Anyway, I’m onto something that makes more sense to me than what I’ve usually heard and thought on Palm Sunday. Take that, you empires. Maybe we’re under your domination, but your days are numbered because you are much less than divine or divinely established.
Peace cannot abide in a fist.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
My days overflow with goodness.
You deserve my thanks.
My nights are filled with refreshing sleep.
You deserve my thanks.
My life contains fruitful, enjoyable activity.
You deserve my thanks.
I know a great measure of love and friendship.
You deserve my thanks.
I have learned to share.
You deserve my thanks.
It is indeed a wonderful life.
You have my thanks.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Anybody know of a good tailor in the city? I could use a new robe for the demonstration this week. One without seams would be preferable.”
[Maybe a seamstress? He definitely did not say this.]
D. Blog: Reconsidering Palm Sunday
Yesterday we Christians observed Palm Sunday, recalling when Jesus led a parade into Jerusalem a few days before he was crucified. What struck me in hearing the story this time was that that event, assuming it actually happened, might have been a parody of the imperial parades into the city. It would thus have been making fun of imperial pomp and pointing to the misplaced values, the staggering contrast between Jewish religious values and the values of the Roman empire. It might have been Jesus’ way of saying “the emperor has no clothes,” rather like Jon Stewart of The Daily Show when he ridicules the Bush administration. But empires have no sense of humor, and certainly can’t laugh at themselves nor allow people to make fun of them…
We Christians also look at the story with little or no sense of humor. We see a contrast between the power of the Roman Empire and the power of love, but it’s all very serious. Suppose the procession into Jerusalem was more like a people’s party, however. Imagine it as a festival where the people have a good time mocking the oppressive might of occupying Rome. Not an alternative royalty-in-waiting demonstration, but a reaffirmation of underlying Jewish religious values of justice and peace and freedom despite the harsh realities of Roman occupation.
Anyway, I’m onto something that makes more sense to me than what I’ve usually heard and thought on Palm Sunday. Take that, you empires. Maybe we’re under your domination, but your days are numbered because you are much less than divine or divinely established.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
What's Your Team?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Modern war involves selling your soul to the nation state.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Nothing can take away from your love.
No matter how hard we try to alienate you, you continue to dote.
No matter how far we think we stray from your ways, if we turn we find your loving eyes watching over us.
No matter how cruel life becomes for us and how we think you have abandoned us, when things improve for us, we might notice your wounds look like ours.
Nothing can take away from your love.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“All I said was, ‘Give to God what is God’s.’ What’s so revolutionary about that?”
[He probably knew, but He didn’t say this.]
D. Blog: Spring Training
Religion as Baseball
- Calvinists believe the game is fixed.
- Lutherans believe they can't win, but trust the Scorekeeper.
- Quakers won't swing.
- Unitarians can catch anything.
- Amish walk a lot.
- Pagans sacrifice.
- Jehovah's Witnesses are thrown out often.
- Televangelists get caught stealing.
- Episcopalians pass the plate.
- Evangelicals make pitches.
- Fundamentalists balk.
- Adventists have a seventh-inning stretch.
- Followers of Islam have stretches after innings 2, 4, 6, 8 and at the end of the game.
- Atheists refuse to have an Umpire.
- Jews think they wrote the rules of the game.
- Methodists have the game down to a science.
- Baptists want to play hardball.
- Hindus insist on playing again – a for different team next time.
- Agnostics watch from the sidelines.
- Buddhists in the stands remain relatively quiet when their team scores – one hand clapping makes little noise.
- Buddhists on the field won't catch flies.
- Premillennialists expect the game to be called soon on account of darkness.
- The Pope claims never to have committed an error.
Modern war involves selling your soul to the nation state.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Nothing can take away from your love.
No matter how hard we try to alienate you, you continue to dote.
No matter how far we think we stray from your ways, if we turn we find your loving eyes watching over us.
No matter how cruel life becomes for us and how we think you have abandoned us, when things improve for us, we might notice your wounds look like ours.
Nothing can take away from your love.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“All I said was, ‘Give to God what is God’s.’ What’s so revolutionary about that?”
[He probably knew, but He didn’t say this.]
D. Blog: Spring Training
Religion as Baseball
- Calvinists believe the game is fixed.
- Lutherans believe they can't win, but trust the Scorekeeper.
- Quakers won't swing.
- Unitarians can catch anything.
- Amish walk a lot.
- Pagans sacrifice.
- Jehovah's Witnesses are thrown out often.
- Televangelists get caught stealing.
- Episcopalians pass the plate.
- Evangelicals make pitches.
- Fundamentalists balk.
- Adventists have a seventh-inning stretch.
- Followers of Islam have stretches after innings 2, 4, 6, 8 and at the end of the game.
- Atheists refuse to have an Umpire.
- Jews think they wrote the rules of the game.
- Methodists have the game down to a science.
- Baptists want to play hardball.
- Hindus insist on playing again – a for different team next time.
- Agnostics watch from the sidelines.
- Buddhists in the stands remain relatively quiet when their team scores – one hand clapping makes little noise.
- Buddhists on the field won't catch flies.
- Premillennialists expect the game to be called soon on account of darkness.
- The Pope claims never to have committed an error.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
On the Road to...?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
On the whole, Mr. Fields, I’d rather be at peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You made us such that we might know pleasure, joy, passion, ecstasy and bliss. Despite the fervent negative teaching of some religious elements around us, I do not believe the pleasure feature of our lives is a mistake, an accident, or sinful. I am happy to accept this gift, use it wisely (I hope) and offer my constant gratitude for it. I think it’s awesome!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Rome is the great Satan!”
[Maybe what He shouted on Palm Sunday? No, even if He thought so, He didn’t say it.]
D. Blog: Bumperstickers for the Road
- Visualize Using your Turn Signals
- If you can’t operate your turn signals, what makes you think you can operate the rest of the car?
- Slower Minds Keep Right
- I’d turn back if I were you!
On the whole, Mr. Fields, I’d rather be at peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You made us such that we might know pleasure, joy, passion, ecstasy and bliss. Despite the fervent negative teaching of some religious elements around us, I do not believe the pleasure feature of our lives is a mistake, an accident, or sinful. I am happy to accept this gift, use it wisely (I hope) and offer my constant gratitude for it. I think it’s awesome!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Rome is the great Satan!”
[Maybe what He shouted on Palm Sunday? No, even if He thought so, He didn’t say it.]
D. Blog: Bumperstickers for the Road
- Visualize Using your Turn Signals
- If you can’t operate your turn signals, what makes you think you can operate the rest of the car?
- Slower Minds Keep Right
- I’d turn back if I were you!
Friday, March 14, 2008
When Does Your Cat Yammer?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Living in peace requires the periodic admission that I am (we are) not God.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
How do I love you? Let me count the ways….
No, not really. Better to enjoy your presence with me. Better to feel the warmth of your love.
How do I love life? Let me count the ways…
No, that won’t do, either. I would spend the rest of my life counting. Better to continue enjoying the marvelous gift that is life.
Let me just say: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Dad, how many of his neighbors did Noah watch drown, do you suppose?”
[Such a bleeding heart! But He never said it.]
D. Blog: Word of the Week
[from Merriam-Webster Online]
“katzenjammer”
Main Entry: kat·zen·jam·mer
Pronunciation: \ˈkat-sən-ˌja-mər\
Function: noun
Etymology: German, from Katze (cat) + Jammer (distress)
Date: 1849
1 : hangover
2 : distress
3 : a discordant clamor
[A German major in college, I like this word a lot. When pronounced, it even sounds a lot like what it means. And this week, it befits many things. Political campaigning. Media frenzy in New York. Events in the east Mediterranean region. The worldwide economy. Getting beyond the Bush years. We have a katzenjammer, Houston!]
Living in peace requires the periodic admission that I am (we are) not God.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
How do I love you? Let me count the ways….
No, not really. Better to enjoy your presence with me. Better to feel the warmth of your love.
How do I love life? Let me count the ways…
No, that won’t do, either. I would spend the rest of my life counting. Better to continue enjoying the marvelous gift that is life.
Let me just say: Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Dad, how many of his neighbors did Noah watch drown, do you suppose?”
[Such a bleeding heart! But He never said it.]
D. Blog: Word of the Week
[from Merriam-Webster Online]
“katzenjammer”
Main Entry: kat·zen·jam·mer
Pronunciation: \ˈkat-sən-ˌja-mər\
Function: noun
Etymology: German, from Katze (cat) + Jammer (distress)
Date: 1849
1 : hangover
2 : distress
3 : a discordant clamor
[A German major in college, I like this word a lot. When pronounced, it even sounds a lot like what it means. And this week, it befits many things. Political campaigning. Media frenzy in New York. Events in the east Mediterranean region. The worldwide economy. Getting beyond the Bush years. We have a katzenjammer, Houston!]
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Just Trust the Politicians...
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
When a just peace becomes politically incorrect, then politics has no moral foundation.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
A fat robin perches on our deck rail. This seems an unusual occurrence, so I wonder: is there some significance, some message for me in this early morning sight?
No, not really. Yet we often ascribe meaning to the unusual events in our lives. We look for signs and wonders to confirm your presence, your care, your guidance, your interaction with us.
We needn’t puzzle over such matters. For as the Josh Groban song says, “After all, you’re still you.” Even after the robin has flown.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Honesty is the best policy – well, really more a guideline than a policy.”
[From politicians, yes. From Him, no.]
D. Blog: Two Lenten Observations about the US Administration
- Some time ago, the president declared the “mission accomplished.” Was that as in “It is finished”? Or, just believe in him? No. There’s a huge gulf between words from a battleship and words from a cross, as there is between a politician of privilege and a prophet/messenger/redeemer from God.
- The ideologues in control of the US government follow the principle that the end justifies any means. And, since their end is world domination, their ultimate means appears to be, if “necessary,” the destruction of the world in order to “save” it.
When a just peace becomes politically incorrect, then politics has no moral foundation.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
A fat robin perches on our deck rail. This seems an unusual occurrence, so I wonder: is there some significance, some message for me in this early morning sight?
No, not really. Yet we often ascribe meaning to the unusual events in our lives. We look for signs and wonders to confirm your presence, your care, your guidance, your interaction with us.
We needn’t puzzle over such matters. For as the Josh Groban song says, “After all, you’re still you.” Even after the robin has flown.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Honesty is the best policy – well, really more a guideline than a policy.”
[From politicians, yes. From Him, no.]
D. Blog: Two Lenten Observations about the US Administration
- Some time ago, the president declared the “mission accomplished.” Was that as in “It is finished”? Or, just believe in him? No. There’s a huge gulf between words from a battleship and words from a cross, as there is between a politician of privilege and a prophet/messenger/redeemer from God.
- The ideologues in control of the US government follow the principle that the end justifies any means. And, since their end is world domination, their ultimate means appears to be, if “necessary,” the destruction of the world in order to “save” it.
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
How Small Is Your God?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
There is no room for war in a spirit-filled life.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I dwell in you.
I know your goodness and love.
Your glory manifests itself wherever I turn, with every breath, in all I do or think or say.
Your blessings number beyond the number of grains of sand.
I never tire of finding new mercies each day.
You never disappoint in your power to amaze and inspire me.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“That’s right. Everything in the carpentry shop, 50% off. I’m going into the soul-saving business.”
[Nope, never said it.]
D. Blog: Poisonous Religion
Someone is making money with a book entitled God is not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything. I largely agree with the subtitle, with emphasis on organized, priest-controlled religion. That has little to do with God or with spirituality. It attempts to control us by claiming it has a handle on the Holy One. That’s an audacious and illegitimate position, isn’t it?
I might agree with the main title, too, if by “God” the author means the one held before us by most organized religion. That “god” is often entirely too small, restricting, judging and violent, therefore, a poor image of divinity.
For the Holy One is always with and in us, never merely “out there” or “other.” The Holy one is not “in control,” but inviting our participation in the amazing process of creating a beautiful universe. Anything less than that is of no consequence and not worthy of our attention.
There is no room for war in a spirit-filled life.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I dwell in you.
I know your goodness and love.
Your glory manifests itself wherever I turn, with every breath, in all I do or think or say.
Your blessings number beyond the number of grains of sand.
I never tire of finding new mercies each day.
You never disappoint in your power to amaze and inspire me.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“That’s right. Everything in the carpentry shop, 50% off. I’m going into the soul-saving business.”
[Nope, never said it.]
D. Blog: Poisonous Religion
Someone is making money with a book entitled God is not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything. I largely agree with the subtitle, with emphasis on organized, priest-controlled religion. That has little to do with God or with spirituality. It attempts to control us by claiming it has a handle on the Holy One. That’s an audacious and illegitimate position, isn’t it?
I might agree with the main title, too, if by “God” the author means the one held before us by most organized religion. That “god” is often entirely too small, restricting, judging and violent, therefore, a poor image of divinity.
For the Holy One is always with and in us, never merely “out there” or “other.” The Holy one is not “in control,” but inviting our participation in the amazing process of creating a beautiful universe. Anything less than that is of no consequence and not worthy of our attention.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Rest Easy
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Fortunately, my peace does not depend on a president.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Even when events overwhelm me, I give my concerns to you.
I rest easy.
Even when unconscious, I know your care.
I rest easy.
Even if my mind fails, I submit to your mercy.
I rest easy.
Even when I approach death, I know your love.
I rest easy.
And even when I die, I return to you.
I rest easy.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I’ll never go to synagogue again because they’re all just a bunch of hypocrites.”
[Close, perhaps, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Late Winter Haiku
A bit of snow to brighten the view,
Clean the yard,
And leave all renewed.
Fortunately, my peace does not depend on a president.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Even when events overwhelm me, I give my concerns to you.
I rest easy.
Even when unconscious, I know your care.
I rest easy.
Even if my mind fails, I submit to your mercy.
I rest easy.
Even when I approach death, I know your love.
I rest easy.
And even when I die, I return to you.
I rest easy.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I’ll never go to synagogue again because they’re all just a bunch of hypocrites.”
[Close, perhaps, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Late Winter Haiku
A bit of snow to brighten the view,
Clean the yard,
And leave all renewed.
Monday, March 10, 2008
What Cross Works for You?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
As for me and my house, we choose peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I can’t imagine a better universe.
I can’t imagine a better planet.
I can’t imagine better life forms.
I can’t imagine a better human body.
I can’t imagine something better than consciousness.
I can imagine a better human community.
But I suppose you aren’t responsible for that bit of imperfection, are you?
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Well, no, Philip, God does not require sacrifice. But people seem to lust for it.”
[So He gave us what we want? Not exactly, and He never said it.]
D. Blog: Seeing Crosses
I’m not usually one for crosses. As decorations or jewelry, they seem perverse to me. When shiny or brightly colored, they seem to deny the reality of the gruesome terror of that tool of imperial power. As a symbol of God’s power to overcome evil and death and to transform them into goodness, hope and life – that I understand and value. But save me from using the cross as adornment.
For a time, I liked the symbol of the electric chair that represented the reality of the cross. But where’s the hope and life in that?
I recently bought a cross that works for me, though. It’s a spent bullet casing that was transformed into the shape of a cross rising from the base of the shell. Made in Liberia by a former militant, now turned peacemaker following the violence and death of a 14-year civil war, it represents the hope people in his country have for a new life. I think it’s a wonderful symbol of what Christians try to honor and commemorate in our crosses.
As for me and my house, we choose peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I can’t imagine a better universe.
I can’t imagine a better planet.
I can’t imagine better life forms.
I can’t imagine a better human body.
I can’t imagine something better than consciousness.
I can imagine a better human community.
But I suppose you aren’t responsible for that bit of imperfection, are you?
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Well, no, Philip, God does not require sacrifice. But people seem to lust for it.”
[So He gave us what we want? Not exactly, and He never said it.]
D. Blog: Seeing Crosses
I’m not usually one for crosses. As decorations or jewelry, they seem perverse to me. When shiny or brightly colored, they seem to deny the reality of the gruesome terror of that tool of imperial power. As a symbol of God’s power to overcome evil and death and to transform them into goodness, hope and life – that I understand and value. But save me from using the cross as adornment.
For a time, I liked the symbol of the electric chair that represented the reality of the cross. But where’s the hope and life in that?
I recently bought a cross that works for me, though. It’s a spent bullet casing that was transformed into the shape of a cross rising from the base of the shell. Made in Liberia by a former militant, now turned peacemaker following the violence and death of a 14-year civil war, it represents the hope people in his country have for a new life. I think it’s a wonderful symbol of what Christians try to honor and commemorate in our crosses.
Sunday, March 9, 2008
Which Door to Choose?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
A just peace makes security possible. Security without a just peace is just another word for government control.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You see the options/doors before us. You invite us to choose the best one.
We go through one door and find a new set before us. You call us from behind the one that offers the best opportunities for our fulfillment.
We go through a door and see a new selection of doors. You call. We open and pass through. The process lasts for a lifetime.
I feel that I picked many of the best doors, thanks to your calling.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Would someone please offer an interpretation of Christian rock music such that it makes some sense to a simple carpenter from Nazareth?”
[I’m with Him there, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Did You Hear the One about the Minister?
Paper-Eating Dog
One Sunday morning, a minister delivered a sermon in 10 minutes, which was about half the usual length of his sermons. He explained, "I regret to inform you that my dog, who is very fond of eating paper, ate that portion of my sermon which I was unable to deliver this morning."
After the service, a visitor from another church shook hands with the preacher and said, "Reverend, if that dog of yours has any pups, I would like to buy one and give it to my minister."
A just peace makes security possible. Security without a just peace is just another word for government control.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You see the options/doors before us. You invite us to choose the best one.
We go through one door and find a new set before us. You call us from behind the one that offers the best opportunities for our fulfillment.
We go through a door and see a new selection of doors. You call. We open and pass through. The process lasts for a lifetime.
I feel that I picked many of the best doors, thanks to your calling.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Would someone please offer an interpretation of Christian rock music such that it makes some sense to a simple carpenter from Nazareth?”
[I’m with Him there, but He never said it.]
D. Blog: Did You Hear the One about the Minister?
Paper-Eating Dog
One Sunday morning, a minister delivered a sermon in 10 minutes, which was about half the usual length of his sermons. He explained, "I regret to inform you that my dog, who is very fond of eating paper, ate that portion of my sermon which I was unable to deliver this morning."
After the service, a visitor from another church shook hands with the preacher and said, "Reverend, if that dog of yours has any pups, I would like to buy one and give it to my minister."
Saturday, March 8, 2008
Lenten Meditation?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
There’s a peace in my future.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Open me to the possibilities of this day.
Help me find the loving things to do and say.
Let me see and express the humor that gives spice to life.
Give me time to respond to Earth’s beauty so I can feel her maternal affection.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“What do I think of the cross? Peter, let’s not go there.”
[I like this! But it’s an un-quote – He never said it.]
D. Blog: (A)Musing Bumperstickers
- Artificial Intelligence is no match for Natural Stupidity
- I’m Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe
- Just Say NO to Negativity
- Jesus called. He wants his religion back.
There’s a peace in my future.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Open me to the possibilities of this day.
Help me find the loving things to do and say.
Let me see and express the humor that gives spice to life.
Give me time to respond to Earth’s beauty so I can feel her maternal affection.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“What do I think of the cross? Peter, let’s not go there.”
[I like this! But it’s an un-quote – He never said it.]
D. Blog: (A)Musing Bumperstickers
- Artificial Intelligence is no match for Natural Stupidity
- I’m Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe
- Just Say NO to Negativity
- Jesus called. He wants his religion back.
How's This for Lenten Meditation?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
There’s a peace in my future.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Open me to the possibilities of this day.
Help me find the loving things to do and say.
Let me see and express the humor that gives spice to life.
Give me time to respond to Earth’s beauty so I can feel her maternal affection.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“What do I think of the cross? Peter, let’s not go there.”
[I like this! But it’s an un-quote – He never said it.]
D. Blog: (A)Musing Bumperstickers
- Artificial Intelligence is no match for Natural Stupidity
- I’m Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe
- Just Say NO to Negativity
- Jesus called. He wants his religion back.
There’s a peace in my future.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Open me to the possibilities of this day.
Help me find the loving things to do and say.
Let me see and express the humor that gives spice to life.
Give me time to respond to Earth’s beauty so I can feel her maternal affection.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“What do I think of the cross? Peter, let’s not go there.”
[I like this! But it’s an un-quote – He never said it.]
D. Blog: (A)Musing Bumperstickers
- Artificial Intelligence is no match for Natural Stupidity
- I’m Diagonally Parked in a Parallel Universe
- Just Say NO to Negativity
- Jesus called. He wants his religion back.
Friday, March 7, 2008
There's a Good Word for Much Political Talk
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
It turns out that Adam and Eve never left the Garden. Instead, they’ve turned it into a war zone.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I understand that suffering, evil, and loss can lead people to doubt or deny your existence.
I understand that religion too often proposes grossly distorted ideas about you, such that people want nothing to do with such a god.
I understand that some people who claim belief in you provide terrible models of how those who follow your leading should act in expressing your love.
I understand, then, why many people say they feel closest to you when they move into the sanctuary of Earth’s natural beauty instead of into tabernacles of religion.
It makes perfect sense.
Still, I do meet you sometimes in the company of your imperfect people.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Forget that bit about turning the other cheek.”
[Nope, didn’t say it. Not even on the cross.]
D. Blog: Weird Word of the Week
“Poppycock”
Apparently originating from Dutch settlers in America, the word had to do with farmyard excrement from chickens. It appeared in print in stories by Artemis Ward in the Cleveland Plain Dealer in 1858 to describe political talk from candidates. [Hmmm…] Obviously, the word caught on and spread to apply to any sort of nonsense.
[Sources: “Why You Say It’ by Webb Garrison, and Michael Quinion on worldwidewords.org]
It turns out that Adam and Eve never left the Garden. Instead, they’ve turned it into a war zone.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I understand that suffering, evil, and loss can lead people to doubt or deny your existence.
I understand that religion too often proposes grossly distorted ideas about you, such that people want nothing to do with such a god.
I understand that some people who claim belief in you provide terrible models of how those who follow your leading should act in expressing your love.
I understand, then, why many people say they feel closest to you when they move into the sanctuary of Earth’s natural beauty instead of into tabernacles of religion.
It makes perfect sense.
Still, I do meet you sometimes in the company of your imperfect people.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Forget that bit about turning the other cheek.”
[Nope, didn’t say it. Not even on the cross.]
D. Blog: Weird Word of the Week
“Poppycock”
Apparently originating from Dutch settlers in America, the word had to do with farmyard excrement from chickens. It appeared in print in stories by Artemis Ward in the Cleveland Plain Dealer in 1858 to describe political talk from candidates. [Hmmm…] Obviously, the word caught on and spread to apply to any sort of nonsense.
[Sources: “Why You Say It’ by Webb Garrison, and Michael Quinion on worldwidewords.org]
Thursday, March 6, 2008
With Confession and Forgiveness for All
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peacemaking is not for the faint of heart.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The voice that tells us to speak untruth does not come from you.
The voice that tells us to take advantage of the poor does not come from you.
The voice that tells us we can pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps does not come from you.
The voice that tells us that might makes right does not come from you.
The voice that tells us you are on our side in war does not come from you.
The voice that tells us life is cheap does not come from you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Thanks. I’m glad you liked the sermon.”
[Liked it, but didn’t do what He said. But then, He never said this either.]
D. Blog: Confessing and Asking for Forgiveness
I read today that the Vatican will be offering additional training to priests regarding the confidentiality of the confession booth. The percentage of lay people who go to confession has declined drastically.
Perhaps the reason for that is the one the hierarchy proposes: confessions not being kept in strict confidence. I propose another reason: churches and church leaders themselves have a lot that needs confessing. They should be begging for forgiveness, too.
Sexual abuse by church leaders, of course comes to mind. In addition, what about the church’s historic sanctioning of war? What about the church’s alignment with the powerful instead of with the poor? What about the church’s continuing abuse of homosexuals? What about the church’s disregard for controlling the population on Earth? What about the church’s continuing debasement of women?
The scales tip heavily in the direction of the institutional church’s need to confess and seek forgiveness. What we do as individuals in the way of sinning seems almost petty in comparison.
Peacemaking is not for the faint of heart.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
The voice that tells us to speak untruth does not come from you.
The voice that tells us to take advantage of the poor does not come from you.
The voice that tells us we can pull ourselves up by our own bootstraps does not come from you.
The voice that tells us that might makes right does not come from you.
The voice that tells us you are on our side in war does not come from you.
The voice that tells us life is cheap does not come from you.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Thanks. I’m glad you liked the sermon.”
[Liked it, but didn’t do what He said. But then, He never said this either.]
D. Blog: Confessing and Asking for Forgiveness
I read today that the Vatican will be offering additional training to priests regarding the confidentiality of the confession booth. The percentage of lay people who go to confession has declined drastically.
Perhaps the reason for that is the one the hierarchy proposes: confessions not being kept in strict confidence. I propose another reason: churches and church leaders themselves have a lot that needs confessing. They should be begging for forgiveness, too.
Sexual abuse by church leaders, of course comes to mind. In addition, what about the church’s historic sanctioning of war? What about the church’s alignment with the powerful instead of with the poor? What about the church’s continuing abuse of homosexuals? What about the church’s disregard for controlling the population on Earth? What about the church’s continuing debasement of women?
The scales tip heavily in the direction of the institutional church’s need to confess and seek forgiveness. What we do as individuals in the way of sinning seems almost petty in comparison.
Wednesday, March 5, 2008
Knowing Your Place
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Have you heard the rumor that God announced peace on Earth, good will to all? Amazing, isn’t it?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You immerse me in goodness.
I know struggle.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know pain.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know suffering and grief and despair.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know hatred and exclusion and war.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know destruction, evil and death.
You immerse me in goodness.
Blessed are you, oh my God!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I had this great idea for an invention – a Light bulb!”
[Oh, I get it. Funny perhaps, but He never said it – absolutely not.]
D. Blog: $1 Million Houses
Alice and I watch some of the programs that show people searching for houses to buy. Usually, I can identify somewhat. However, I can’t take it very seriously when they’re looking for homes priced at more than $1 million. Big, usually, actually too big for the couples who can afford them. And filled with the bells and whistles that add nothing to the practicality of a house, just match the current fads in decorating a house. When it looks like a model house or like something in a magazine, I can’t see anything like a real home to it.
I also find it offensive/stupid to have such lavish houses, with pools, in a desert location like Las Vegas. If I ruled the world, those folks would have to adapt to their natural surroundings… No, then they’d just want to come ruin our natural surroundings more quickly than is happening already. With the current housing market, perhaps they will need to stay there to deal with the inevitable water shortage.
Have you heard the rumor that God announced peace on Earth, good will to all? Amazing, isn’t it?
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
You immerse me in goodness.
I know struggle.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know pain.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know suffering and grief and despair.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know hatred and exclusion and war.
You immerse me in goodness.
I know destruction, evil and death.
You immerse me in goodness.
Blessed are you, oh my God!
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“I had this great idea for an invention – a Light bulb!”
[Oh, I get it. Funny perhaps, but He never said it – absolutely not.]
D. Blog: $1 Million Houses
Alice and I watch some of the programs that show people searching for houses to buy. Usually, I can identify somewhat. However, I can’t take it very seriously when they’re looking for homes priced at more than $1 million. Big, usually, actually too big for the couples who can afford them. And filled with the bells and whistles that add nothing to the practicality of a house, just match the current fads in decorating a house. When it looks like a model house or like something in a magazine, I can’t see anything like a real home to it.
I also find it offensive/stupid to have such lavish houses, with pools, in a desert location like Las Vegas. If I ruled the world, those folks would have to adapt to their natural surroundings… No, then they’d just want to come ruin our natural surroundings more quickly than is happening already. With the current housing market, perhaps they will need to stay there to deal with the inevitable water shortage.
Tuesday, March 4, 2008
Birds for Peace
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
“Peace with honor.”
Or what? War with dishonor?
Sounds about right, I think.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Without you, formless and void.
Without you, chaos.
Without you, no compassion or love.
Without you, no trees (Kilmer was right).
Without you, no purpose.
Without you, no peace.
Without you, lost.
Without you, a dead end.
Without you, nothing.
So, why try to do away with you?
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Of course I’m opposed to the death penalty. It’s barbaric.”
[Maybe He said it, but not in English.]
D. Blog: A Haiku
The peace of the bright early morning
Does not mind
The birds’ loud music.
“Peace with honor.”
Or what? War with dishonor?
Sounds about right, I think.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
Without you, formless and void.
Without you, chaos.
Without you, no compassion or love.
Without you, no trees (Kilmer was right).
Without you, no purpose.
Without you, no peace.
Without you, lost.
Without you, a dead end.
Without you, nothing.
So, why try to do away with you?
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Of course I’m opposed to the death penalty. It’s barbaric.”
[Maybe He said it, but not in English.]
D. Blog: A Haiku
The peace of the bright early morning
Does not mind
The birds’ loud music.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Counting Blessings Includes Counting Friends
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
The suns in the night sky shine to calm our fears, awaken our wonder, and offer hope for peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I know we have numerous complaints. Like Job, we sometimes think we got a lousy hand and that you were the dealer. Not fair, we say.
Except for the part about you dealing the cards and causing our misfortune, it’s true of course. Life isn’t fair. Stuff happens. But you do not control everything.
Yet, on balance, I affirm that life is good, that if we take an honest look, we see life is filled with many more blessings than curses. And, like Job, when we see you honestly, too, when we acknowledge having been made in your image, then we get rid of the sackcloth and ashes attitude and live more fully in your presence.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“That psalm keeps running through my head.”
[Maybe the 23rd? Or the opening to the 22nd? Or did they have them numbered? Doesn’t matter, He never said this.]
D. Blog: On Friendship
“The only way to have a friend is to be one.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” – Abraham Lincoln
"Hold a true friend with both your hands." -- Nigerian Proverb
"A faithful friend is the medicine of life." -- Apocrypha
"Friendship multiplies the good of life and divides the evil." -- Baltasar Gracian (1647)
"Friendship needs no words..." -- Dag Hammarskjold.
"Friends are the sunshine of life." -- John Hay (1871)
"The best mirror is an old friend." --George Herbert
“One who looks for a friend without faults will have none.” -- Hasidic Saying
“A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.” -- Walter Winchell
“Friends are needed both for joy and for sorrow.” -- Samuel Paterson
The suns in the night sky shine to calm our fears, awaken our wonder, and offer hope for peace.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
I know we have numerous complaints. Like Job, we sometimes think we got a lousy hand and that you were the dealer. Not fair, we say.
Except for the part about you dealing the cards and causing our misfortune, it’s true of course. Life isn’t fair. Stuff happens. But you do not control everything.
Yet, on balance, I affirm that life is good, that if we take an honest look, we see life is filled with many more blessings than curses. And, like Job, when we see you honestly, too, when we acknowledge having been made in your image, then we get rid of the sackcloth and ashes attitude and live more fully in your presence.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“That psalm keeps running through my head.”
[Maybe the 23rd? Or the opening to the 22nd? Or did they have them numbered? Doesn’t matter, He never said this.]
D. Blog: On Friendship
“The only way to have a friend is to be one.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson
“The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend.” – Abraham Lincoln
"Hold a true friend with both your hands." -- Nigerian Proverb
"A faithful friend is the medicine of life." -- Apocrypha
"Friendship multiplies the good of life and divides the evil." -- Baltasar Gracian (1647)
"Friendship needs no words..." -- Dag Hammarskjold.
"Friends are the sunshine of life." -- John Hay (1871)
"The best mirror is an old friend." --George Herbert
“One who looks for a friend without faults will have none.” -- Hasidic Saying
“A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.” -- Walter Winchell
“Friends are needed both for joy and for sorrow.” -- Samuel Paterson
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Got Your Bucket List?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
Peace and justice are conjoined and inseparable twins.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
My body deteriorates.
My spirit matures.
My soul expands with the universe.
You make room for me.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Location, location, location.”
[What He did not say when He looked down on Jerusalem.]
D. Blog: Awesome Life
I’ve said it many times, I’ll say it again many times: Life is Awesome!
Thunder and lightning get our attention. They inspire wonder, fear, curiosity, mystery, all certain to make us think of something beyond ourselves. They remind us of our mortality. Are we prepared for death? Are we prepared to encounter what might come after death? Curious how that “natural” phenomenon evokes such things in us.
I’ve also said many times and say again: People create some awesome things. Who would expect that a play - a comedy - about stock car racing could touch on themes of love and dreams and gender and sexual orientation, and self-esteem and predestination? Or that a movie about two old men dying of incurable cancer could inspire joy and love and a sense of wonder at the gift of life and this amazing planet?
If we are wired for spirituality, we are also wired for art, both “natural” and from human creativity.
Peace and justice are conjoined and inseparable twins.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
My body deteriorates.
My spirit matures.
My soul expands with the universe.
You make room for me.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“Location, location, location.”
[What He did not say when He looked down on Jerusalem.]
D. Blog: Awesome Life
I’ve said it many times, I’ll say it again many times: Life is Awesome!
Thunder and lightning get our attention. They inspire wonder, fear, curiosity, mystery, all certain to make us think of something beyond ourselves. They remind us of our mortality. Are we prepared for death? Are we prepared to encounter what might come after death? Curious how that “natural” phenomenon evokes such things in us.
I’ve also said many times and say again: People create some awesome things. Who would expect that a play - a comedy - about stock car racing could touch on themes of love and dreams and gender and sexual orientation, and self-esteem and predestination? Or that a movie about two old men dying of incurable cancer could inspire joy and love and a sense of wonder at the gift of life and this amazing planet?
If we are wired for spirituality, we are also wired for art, both “natural” and from human creativity.
Saturday, March 1, 2008
Hope Floats?
A. Unabashed Pacifist:
God mourns when we choose war.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
So, tell me, who is it that you have not chosen as special? Who does not have a place in your choir? Whom do you exclude from the possibility of bringing light and blessing to all peoples? Who does not receive your invitation to be what you call them to be? Who lives outside the realm of your love and forgiveness? Who does not belong to your family? Who was not made in your image?
I can’t think of anyone.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“So the Samaritan says, ‘Let’s form an interfaith committee to see what can be done for this man lying on the side of the road.’”
[What a concept! He never said it.]
D. Blog: More Bumpersticker Pearls
- Faith is a Journey – Not a Guilt Trip
- What Good Fortune for Governments that the People don’t Think – Hitler
- Proud to be American, Ashamed of my Government
- It’s dangerous to be right when the government is wrong – Voltaire
- The future belongs to those who give the next generation reason for hope – Teilhard de Chardin
God mourns when we choose war.
B. Unabashed Christian:
Holy One,
So, tell me, who is it that you have not chosen as special? Who does not have a place in your choir? Whom do you exclude from the possibility of bringing light and blessing to all peoples? Who does not receive your invitation to be what you call them to be? Who lives outside the realm of your love and forgiveness? Who does not belong to your family? Who was not made in your image?
I can’t think of anyone.
Amen
C. Un-quoting Jesus:
“So the Samaritan says, ‘Let’s form an interfaith committee to see what can be done for this man lying on the side of the road.’”
[What a concept! He never said it.]
D. Blog: More Bumpersticker Pearls
- Faith is a Journey – Not a Guilt Trip
- What Good Fortune for Governments that the People don’t Think – Hitler
- Proud to be American, Ashamed of my Government
- It’s dangerous to be right when the government is wrong – Voltaire
- The future belongs to those who give the next generation reason for hope – Teilhard de Chardin
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