Dear Friends,
Merry Christmas! It doesn’t feel like that long ago that I was writing last year’s letter, but here we are again! The year has gone by so fast, but that tends to happen when just about every moment is full! Life seems to be a series of never-ending transitions, sometimes from old to new and sometimes from new to newer! But these transitions are what make life exciting!
I have been continuing serving at Sheridan-Norway UMCs and in July we celebrated that we had been working together for a full year! There is so much happening at the churches and we are trying to move forward and reach out to new people. There is so much excitement in that, but it’s also difficult to change things and start new things. As many people already know, change is scary. But, we are pressing on and living into our calling from God.
Speaking of living into my calling from God, I am working diligently on my paperwork for commissioning. I was recommended by the Rockford District Committee on Ministry to go forward to the Northern Illinois Conference Board of Ordained Ministry for commissioning toward Elders orders. (Whew! That’s a mouthful!) This will be the second and hopefully last time that I will go up for commissioning and there is a lot of paperwork required to go forward! I’m working on answering all the possible theological questions, writing a sermon, writing Bible studies, and filling out other necessary forms. Everything is due after the first of the year, so I’m writing like crazy! Please keep me in your prayers in March as I go for my interview.
I’ll be continuing to work with the United Methodist Church on a national level too. I will end my service with the Young Adult Seminarians Network in May after almost 5 years of service. I have enjoyed seeing how the church functions on the General Board level and to be in service to the Church in that way. In January, I will begin serving on the Exploration 2009 design team. Exploration was an event that was formative for me when I was exploring my call into ordained ministry, and I’m excited to be a part of planning the event for others as well. It means that I will continue to travel and see different parts of the country. It also helps me to decide where to take a vacation!
Getting used to small town living is still taking time to get used to. Starbucks opened up in Ottawa this month and you can’t imagine how excited I was for that! The nearest Starbucks is now 30 minutes away instead of an hour! I remind myself that even if I were living in a city, it might take that much time with traffic in the mix. I’m joining in on new customs and traditions like the Sandwich Fair, the Corn Festival, and other activities. I am always amazed at how many people turn out for holiday festivals in the small town here, but the atmosphere is wonderful. These are some of the things that I wouldn’t experience in a big city.
I’m still working on meeting people around the area here. I’ve been in school so long that I’ve almost forgotten what hobbies look like! I’m trying to figure out what my hobby is and where I can best practice that. I’m open to suggestions too. I also want to reconnect with those that I’ve lost touch with by living away. If you’re one of those people, we need to compare our calendars and get together!
My house is always open if you’d like to come and visit! It wouldn’t take much time to make the guest bed and you could always spend some time reading in my personal library! I love getting lost in my space here, so feel free to come and lose yourself too!
I wish you a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your families. I pray that you have had a wonderful year as well and that many blessings follow you!
Monday, December 31, 2007
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Top 10 Books of 2007
So, I love to read! I try and read at least one new book a month or at least read a little bit every week. I tend to go out to eat by myself (if I go out) and it's so nice to bring a book with me and escape for a little bit into the world of whatever book I'm reading! So, these are my top 10 books of 2007 and once again, this was when I read them not when they were published...Read and enjoy!
1.) A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Solider by Ishmael Beah-- So amazing and heartbreaking at the same time...I loved being able to learn more about what is happening in Africa and in this case, Sierra Leone, but my heart broke over and over as I heard what has happened through the eyes of a young boy who felt no other option than to become a solider for his own freedom. His story is tragic and inspiring...This is not an easy read because things are not sugar coated or made "pretty" to sell more books. But it is important to read.
2.) I Am America (And So Can You!) by Stephen Colbert--Nothing like going emotional to funny in a single list! I absolutely loved this book...I was laughing hysterically throughout pretty much all of it! I made the mistake of reading some of it on an airplane and the people around me had to think I was nuts, but I just couldn't put it down! His "insights" are scary at times because I have heard people say some of the same things and they were serious! A great satire on the culture of America.
3.) Sex God: Exploring the Endless Connections Between Sexuality and Spirituality by Rob Bell --In some ways this book wasn't what I was expecting and in other ways it completely exceeded my expectation! This book truly seems to be more about relationships and how to deal in a romantic relationship that can't help but include God. I plan on using this book in premarital counseling because I think that there are so many things to keep in mind. Things like: Keeping what happens in your marriage between you and your partner (meaning that you don't broadcast your fights or where your spouse was wrong. When you invite too many people into your marriage, you begin to destroy the sacred bond that God has created.)...For any who are planning on getting married soon, I reccommend reading this before your wedding...Even if you have gotten married recently or not so recently, it's an amazing look into your relationship.
4.) Exploring the Secret Message of Jesus: Uncovering the Truth That Could Change Everything by Brian McLaren --This was the first book that I had read by Brian McLaren even though there are others in my library! (I'm working on them...) I thought it was incredible. A great look at the message of the Kingdom of God/Heaven that Jesus preaches on. It takes the metaphor of the kingdom not just as a future reality, but a present reality (!). While the theology is not completely new, he phrases it in such a way that it seems like a new concept. There were many times that I felt like I was reading something Wesleyan and at other times I was keenly aware that I was not. It provides a great segueway into his newest book Everything Must Change, which I am working my through right now!
5.) I REFUSE to Lead a Dying Church by Paul Nixon--You'll be seeing more on this book in the very near future because this is the sermon series that I'll be preaching on during Lent. This book was suggested by my conference in conjunction with our Harvest 2020 campaign/vision/strategy. I thought that it was amazing and so easy to find any part of a church as a "dying church" if not the whole thing. There were times that made me very sad in reading the book because I saw the churches that I serve almost too cleary within the pages of this book. However, the book does not offer only problems, nor does it offer pat solutions, but gives concepts to think about in how to bring a church to life or in more theological concepts--how to live into the resurrection!! There's hope!
6.) The Gospel According to Starbucks by Leonard Sweet--Where Paul Nixon's book is for the institutional church, I see this one as more individual and personal. I found it nothing short of fantastic and offering so much hope and ideas for revival or resurrection. There is a possibility that Sweet will be speaking at a conference I'll be at later this year and I truly hope that it happens because he seems to have much to say and is a visionary for where the church could be.
7.) An Ordinary Man: An Autobiography by Paul Rusesabagina--I saw Paul Rusesabagina speak a couple years ago and that's when I picked up this book, but I haven't read it until this year. I thought it was amazing and cleared some things up where Hollywood took over in the movie Hotel Rawanda and also gave some more history into the Rwandan genocide. Paul's story is told with much care and humility and still important for the world to hear how much Rwanda was and in many ways still is ignored.
8.) Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling--I didn't really get into the whole Potter craze, but you wouldn't have known that from what I did this summer with the movie & the book! I went to parties and I even saw the movie twice! This book was a complete ending to the series. It also solidified for me that these books had such a message of faith and the Gospel contained in them. Rowling said that the series was always meant to be about Christianity and it's really hard to see otherwise! I'm sad that Potter won't be "new" to read anymore, but I'm excited to see how the movies come out!
9.) The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb: A Spirituality for Leadership in a Multicultural Community by Eric Law--I so wanted to read this book while I was in seminary and somehow forgot about it when I started serving my churches until I talked with a friend again about it. She sent it to me for my birthday, which I so appreciated and loved! I read it as soon as I got it and I was not disappointed. The book is a great look at communicating and functioning in a multicultural society. I highly suggest it especially to any pastor, but even more so I recommend it it all people!
10.) Night by Elie Wiesel--This was a phenomnal story...Tragic and heartbreaking as the story of one young man in a concentration camp recounted his story. It was difficult to read and hear the stories of one of the worst times in human history. Nothing can excuse the actions of those who perpetrated such hatred. This book helps to open our eyes to what happened, but there is no way that we can fully understand what happened without being there...My heart breaks and cannot wrap around the logic....Read this to open your eyes.
So, there are my top books! Happy reading!
1.) A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Solider by Ishmael Beah-- So amazing and heartbreaking at the same time...I loved being able to learn more about what is happening in Africa and in this case, Sierra Leone, but my heart broke over and over as I heard what has happened through the eyes of a young boy who felt no other option than to become a solider for his own freedom. His story is tragic and inspiring...This is not an easy read because things are not sugar coated or made "pretty" to sell more books. But it is important to read.
2.) I Am America (And So Can You!) by Stephen Colbert--Nothing like going emotional to funny in a single list! I absolutely loved this book...I was laughing hysterically throughout pretty much all of it! I made the mistake of reading some of it on an airplane and the people around me had to think I was nuts, but I just couldn't put it down! His "insights" are scary at times because I have heard people say some of the same things and they were serious! A great satire on the culture of America.
3.) Sex God: Exploring the Endless Connections Between Sexuality and Spirituality by Rob Bell --In some ways this book wasn't what I was expecting and in other ways it completely exceeded my expectation! This book truly seems to be more about relationships and how to deal in a romantic relationship that can't help but include God. I plan on using this book in premarital counseling because I think that there are so many things to keep in mind. Things like: Keeping what happens in your marriage between you and your partner (meaning that you don't broadcast your fights or where your spouse was wrong. When you invite too many people into your marriage, you begin to destroy the sacred bond that God has created.)...For any who are planning on getting married soon, I reccommend reading this before your wedding...Even if you have gotten married recently or not so recently, it's an amazing look into your relationship.
4.) Exploring the Secret Message of Jesus: Uncovering the Truth That Could Change Everything by Brian McLaren --This was the first book that I had read by Brian McLaren even though there are others in my library! (I'm working on them...) I thought it was incredible. A great look at the message of the Kingdom of God/Heaven that Jesus preaches on. It takes the metaphor of the kingdom not just as a future reality, but a present reality (!). While the theology is not completely new, he phrases it in such a way that it seems like a new concept. There were many times that I felt like I was reading something Wesleyan and at other times I was keenly aware that I was not. It provides a great segueway into his newest book Everything Must Change, which I am working my through right now!
5.) I REFUSE to Lead a Dying Church by Paul Nixon--You'll be seeing more on this book in the very near future because this is the sermon series that I'll be preaching on during Lent. This book was suggested by my conference in conjunction with our Harvest 2020 campaign/vision/strategy. I thought that it was amazing and so easy to find any part of a church as a "dying church" if not the whole thing. There were times that made me very sad in reading the book because I saw the churches that I serve almost too cleary within the pages of this book. However, the book does not offer only problems, nor does it offer pat solutions, but gives concepts to think about in how to bring a church to life or in more theological concepts--how to live into the resurrection!! There's hope!
6.) The Gospel According to Starbucks by Leonard Sweet--Where Paul Nixon's book is for the institutional church, I see this one as more individual and personal. I found it nothing short of fantastic and offering so much hope and ideas for revival or resurrection. There is a possibility that Sweet will be speaking at a conference I'll be at later this year and I truly hope that it happens because he seems to have much to say and is a visionary for where the church could be.
7.) An Ordinary Man: An Autobiography by Paul Rusesabagina--I saw Paul Rusesabagina speak a couple years ago and that's when I picked up this book, but I haven't read it until this year. I thought it was amazing and cleared some things up where Hollywood took over in the movie Hotel Rawanda and also gave some more history into the Rwandan genocide. Paul's story is told with much care and humility and still important for the world to hear how much Rwanda was and in many ways still is ignored.
8.) Harry Potter & the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling--I didn't really get into the whole Potter craze, but you wouldn't have known that from what I did this summer with the movie & the book! I went to parties and I even saw the movie twice! This book was a complete ending to the series. It also solidified for me that these books had such a message of faith and the Gospel contained in them. Rowling said that the series was always meant to be about Christianity and it's really hard to see otherwise! I'm sad that Potter won't be "new" to read anymore, but I'm excited to see how the movies come out!
9.) The Wolf Shall Dwell with the Lamb: A Spirituality for Leadership in a Multicultural Community by Eric Law--I so wanted to read this book while I was in seminary and somehow forgot about it when I started serving my churches until I talked with a friend again about it. She sent it to me for my birthday, which I so appreciated and loved! I read it as soon as I got it and I was not disappointed. The book is a great look at communicating and functioning in a multicultural society. I highly suggest it especially to any pastor, but even more so I recommend it it all people!
10.) Night by Elie Wiesel--This was a phenomnal story...Tragic and heartbreaking as the story of one young man in a concentration camp recounted his story. It was difficult to read and hear the stories of one of the worst times in human history. Nothing can excuse the actions of those who perpetrated such hatred. This book helps to open our eyes to what happened, but there is no way that we can fully understand what happened without being there...My heart breaks and cannot wrap around the logic....Read this to open your eyes.
So, there are my top books! Happy reading!
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Christmastime is Here!
Christmastime is Here!
Well, here we are…All of the waiting and all of the preparation have lead us up to this! We are on the verge of the day where we celebrate the birth of Jesus! It hardly seems like it’s really that time…Even with the decorations up and the cold wind, it just doesn’t feel like Christmas to me…Or at least it didn’t until I watched Charlie Brown’s Christmas a few nights ago.
How many are familiar with Charlie Brown’s Christmas? I forgot just how much I love that movie! There are many movies out that portray the birth of Jesus, but I have to admit that I think that Charlie Brown’s Christmas portrays the message of Christmas better than most movies that I’ve seen! Now, this movie doesn’t depict Jesus’ birth like some other Christmas movies do, but they are preparing for their Christmas play which seems to have some of the characters that we know with the Nativity scene…Shepherds, Animals, and even a Christmas Queen! Charlie Brown just isn’t feeling everything though…He’s honored to be asked to be the director of the Christmas play, but is still struggling with what Christmas really is...
He meets Snoopy decorating his house for the “reason for the season”…MONEY, MONEY, MONEY! And Charlie Brown just doesn’t think that’s the reason for the season…Then he meets with his little sister, Sally and helps her with her letter to Santa…As she asks for her gifts and includes lots of money, Charlie Brown gets fed up again and wonders still what is the reason for the season…What is Christmas really about?? Just when Charlie Brown thinks that he has it figured out, he’s chosen to be the one to get the Christmas Tree for the pageant…He picks the scrawniest tree because he feels sorry for it and thinks that no one else will choose it, and wouldn’t that just be awful for this tree to be on it’s own for Christmas…When he brings the tree to the rest of the cast, they call him names and make fun of him for picking such an awful tree! They just knew that a blockhead like Charlie Brown couldn’t do anything right!
I’ve felt like Charlie Brown this year…On just about every talk show, commercial, signs, or advertisements, something is broadcast as the “reason for the season.” I’ve heard that giving is the true reason of the season…I’ve heard that spending time with family is the true reason of the season…I’ve heard that buying and spending money is the true reason of the season…So much, that I can understand why Charlie Brown and others just don’t know what the “true reason for the season.” Really is…It seems like our culture doesn’t know what the true reason is…
The true reason isn’t about ribbons and bows…The true reason isn’t about trees and family dinners…The true reason isn’t about giving or receiving…Those things happen because we celebrate the true reason…What is the true reason? Maybe Charlie Brown and Linus can help us with that question again. (Clip)
The true reason for the season is that this is the celebration of Jesus’ birth….It isn’t bows, ribbons, trees, family or friends…It’s about Jesus…Now, as we celebrate we have all those things, bows ribbons, trees, family and friends, but we celebrate because of this baby.
Now this is more than just any baby…This baby is God with us…Emmanuel…This baby is hope to all people…This baby is the light in the darkness…This baby is a miracle!
Maybe it’s because it’s hard to put into words what this baby means for us today…Sure we may know the story and have heard it many different ways through many different sounds…But hearing it and knowing it are different…We’ve heard that this baby was to be the Prince of Peace, but have we experienced Jesus as the Prince of Peace in our lives? We know that this baby was born to save the world, but have we experienced Jesus as our Savior?
Jesus is the sign of the ultimate hope…The ultimate joy…This baby; this Jesus is the reason that there is a Christmas!
This story that we have of Jesus’ birth reaches so many people…There’s Mary & Joseph who have traveled far to follow the orders of Caesar…And who have been planning for this baby to come for 9 months! They’ve been through everything that new parents go through in addition to ridicule, death threats, and major embarrassment… There were the angels who were trusted with sharing this news to the world…What big news that they had to share! If they were late or didn’t give the message, what would we have then? And they told the message so beautifully and full of joy and happiness! There are the shepherds, who were minding their own business watching their sheep and they were awoken to an angel telling them about the Messiah that was born….It’s very important to know that the shepherds were there when Jesus was born…Jesus, who was God in flesh, Jesus who was the new King…Jesus wasn’t in a large palace with jewels and crowns, he wasn’t sleeping in an elaborate crib…He was laying in a manger, a feed trough…And dignitaries and celebrities weren’t all around him, but these shepherds who probably smelled from being in the fields with their sheep, who were nowhere near the richest people and were not even celebrities, but some of the lowest classes of people in that society…Jesus was surrounded by these shepherds!
This baby, Emmanuel, God made flesh is for all people…even the shepherds in the fields…Even the wise men traveling from the east…Even all the people of the land…Even you and me…Jesus came to bring hope to all the world…
In that attitude of hope, we celebrate…We rejoice not because we got the best present or we give the best present, but we celebrate because of this baby…This Jesus that was born. The baby that contained all of the joy and hope that we could ever know…Now that’s something to celebrate!
Well, here we are…All of the waiting and all of the preparation have lead us up to this! We are on the verge of the day where we celebrate the birth of Jesus! It hardly seems like it’s really that time…Even with the decorations up and the cold wind, it just doesn’t feel like Christmas to me…Or at least it didn’t until I watched Charlie Brown’s Christmas a few nights ago.
How many are familiar with Charlie Brown’s Christmas? I forgot just how much I love that movie! There are many movies out that portray the birth of Jesus, but I have to admit that I think that Charlie Brown’s Christmas portrays the message of Christmas better than most movies that I’ve seen! Now, this movie doesn’t depict Jesus’ birth like some other Christmas movies do, but they are preparing for their Christmas play which seems to have some of the characters that we know with the Nativity scene…Shepherds, Animals, and even a Christmas Queen! Charlie Brown just isn’t feeling everything though…He’s honored to be asked to be the director of the Christmas play, but is still struggling with what Christmas really is...
He meets Snoopy decorating his house for the “reason for the season”…MONEY, MONEY, MONEY! And Charlie Brown just doesn’t think that’s the reason for the season…Then he meets with his little sister, Sally and helps her with her letter to Santa…As she asks for her gifts and includes lots of money, Charlie Brown gets fed up again and wonders still what is the reason for the season…What is Christmas really about?? Just when Charlie Brown thinks that he has it figured out, he’s chosen to be the one to get the Christmas Tree for the pageant…He picks the scrawniest tree because he feels sorry for it and thinks that no one else will choose it, and wouldn’t that just be awful for this tree to be on it’s own for Christmas…When he brings the tree to the rest of the cast, they call him names and make fun of him for picking such an awful tree! They just knew that a blockhead like Charlie Brown couldn’t do anything right!
I’ve felt like Charlie Brown this year…On just about every talk show, commercial, signs, or advertisements, something is broadcast as the “reason for the season.” I’ve heard that giving is the true reason of the season…I’ve heard that spending time with family is the true reason of the season…I’ve heard that buying and spending money is the true reason of the season…So much, that I can understand why Charlie Brown and others just don’t know what the “true reason for the season.” Really is…It seems like our culture doesn’t know what the true reason is…
The true reason isn’t about ribbons and bows…The true reason isn’t about trees and family dinners…The true reason isn’t about giving or receiving…Those things happen because we celebrate the true reason…What is the true reason? Maybe Charlie Brown and Linus can help us with that question again. (Clip)
The true reason for the season is that this is the celebration of Jesus’ birth….It isn’t bows, ribbons, trees, family or friends…It’s about Jesus…Now, as we celebrate we have all those things, bows ribbons, trees, family and friends, but we celebrate because of this baby.
Now this is more than just any baby…This baby is God with us…Emmanuel…This baby is hope to all people…This baby is the light in the darkness…This baby is a miracle!
Maybe it’s because it’s hard to put into words what this baby means for us today…Sure we may know the story and have heard it many different ways through many different sounds…But hearing it and knowing it are different…We’ve heard that this baby was to be the Prince of Peace, but have we experienced Jesus as the Prince of Peace in our lives? We know that this baby was born to save the world, but have we experienced Jesus as our Savior?
Jesus is the sign of the ultimate hope…The ultimate joy…This baby; this Jesus is the reason that there is a Christmas!
This story that we have of Jesus’ birth reaches so many people…There’s Mary & Joseph who have traveled far to follow the orders of Caesar…And who have been planning for this baby to come for 9 months! They’ve been through everything that new parents go through in addition to ridicule, death threats, and major embarrassment… There were the angels who were trusted with sharing this news to the world…What big news that they had to share! If they were late or didn’t give the message, what would we have then? And they told the message so beautifully and full of joy and happiness! There are the shepherds, who were minding their own business watching their sheep and they were awoken to an angel telling them about the Messiah that was born….It’s very important to know that the shepherds were there when Jesus was born…Jesus, who was God in flesh, Jesus who was the new King…Jesus wasn’t in a large palace with jewels and crowns, he wasn’t sleeping in an elaborate crib…He was laying in a manger, a feed trough…And dignitaries and celebrities weren’t all around him, but these shepherds who probably smelled from being in the fields with their sheep, who were nowhere near the richest people and were not even celebrities, but some of the lowest classes of people in that society…Jesus was surrounded by these shepherds!
This baby, Emmanuel, God made flesh is for all people…even the shepherds in the fields…Even the wise men traveling from the east…Even all the people of the land…Even you and me…Jesus came to bring hope to all the world…
In that attitude of hope, we celebrate…We rejoice not because we got the best present or we give the best present, but we celebrate because of this baby…This Jesus that was born. The baby that contained all of the joy and hope that we could ever know…Now that’s something to celebrate!
Monday, December 17, 2007
I'm Having a What??
I’m Having a What??
Whenever I read a passage of Scripture, I read several times and each time I try and get into the character’s mind. Sometimes, I’ll read the from the same character’s point of view in different ways. This particular passage, I have read from Mary’s point of view in just about every way that I think I can. I have read her being angry, excited, nervous, sad, curious, apathetic… and each time, the meaning changes a little bit for me. Mary is such an interesting character in the Bible… We know some things about her: Her mother’s name was Anna and her cousin was Elizabeth, who was already 6 months pregnant when Mary heard from the angel… Her husband, Joseph was a carpenter from the lineage of King David… you know King David, the one who wrote most of the Psalms…She talks to angels…She prays…When the angel came to her, she was probably around 13-15, which would have been the normal time for girls in that time to get married and begin to have children…She may have had more children, including at least one other son named James, and well, there’s that other child of hers that I would hope that we know, Jesus…
For all that we think that we know about Mary, we have no idea about how she felt, which is why I often put different emotions into her sayings…
When we look at this passage in Luke, where Gabriel comes to tell Mary of this good news… It strikes me as funny that Gabriel calls it good news at first. I mean think about it… Pretend you’re Mary’s mother or Father and she comes home and tells you that she’s going to have a baby and an angel told her that it’s God’s baby… What is your reaction? Anger… Shame…Confusion…Happiness… We don’t know how Mary’s parents felt about the news. Maybe they felt all those things… They didn’t disown her…
Then there’s Joseph… If your fiancée had come to you before your wedding and told you that she was going to have a baby… But you weren’t this baby’s father, God was the father… What is your reaction? Anger…shame…confusion…happiness… You can watch just about any daytime talk show and see what other people’s reactions would be… We don’t know Joseph’s initial reaction, but we do know what he did later… He married her and raised that baby with love.
Now, both Mary and Joseph had to deal with the gossip and the rumors about her pregnancy and the confusion about their story. If you heard this story today from someone around town, would the first thing that you thought of be that this story must be true!
And, there’s one character in this story that has to deal with the entire situation from the news of the angel to telling her family and fiancée and dealing with the gossip… that’s Mary. Put yourself in her shoes for a minute… An angel comes to you and tells you that you are on earth most blessed and you are going to have a baby that is the Son of God and you will name him Jesus. What do you say? “I’m having a what?” How do you react? “That’s great news!” What on earth is going on?
Well, let’s see… we’ve got the angel Gabriel standing in front of Mary and what’s the first thing that he says to her? “Peace be with you! The Lord is with you and has greatly blessed you!” Sounds like he’s trying to butter Mary up a little bit… Like when someone is trying to get you to do something for them and instead of asking right off, they say “You look wonderful today! You are such a nice person! That project that you did turned out just perfect!” There’s the phrase “flattery will get you everywhere”… Do you think that’s what Gabriel was trying to do? Flatter Mary a little bit and before she could do anything, hit her with the news?
Mary was a little bit wiser than that…Mary didn’t quite accept Gabriel’s words… She thought about them and they made her nervous… If he was trying to butter her up, she could see right through him! Gabriel was probably able to sense her uneasiness, so he told her don’t be afraid…. Then, he began to tell her what God had in store for her. He didn’t come right out and say it though… He told her that God had been gracious to her…. And then… then came the news…. You’re going to be pregnant and have a son, you’ll name him Jesus and, by the way… This will be God’s child… Mary did question a little bit, she wasn’t married…so, how can this be?
Gabriel’s just the messenger, so how do you think he was feeling about these questions? When you have to deliver some kind of project to somebody, but you didn’t create the project and you’re confronted with questions, how long does it take before you get fed up and walk away? Well, Gabriel was a little patient, but he had to remind Mary… God can do anything!
The last sentence that Mary says is a very interesting one, depending on how you read it… It could be happy! “I am the Lord’s Servant! May it happen to me according to your will!” It could be fearful… “I am the Lord’s servant…may it happen to me according to your will...” Sad… “I am the Lord’s servant…may it happen to me according to your will…” maybe Mary just wanted to get Gabriel out of there, so she said what she thought would make him happy… “Yeah, I’m the Lord’s servant… May it happen to me according to your will… Yeah, whatever….” Each time we can see Mary differently… So, how did she say it? Well, we really don’t know… but…
There’s another part of Luke, the magnificat…In the magnifact, we have a song that Mary sings about God and how she is completely humbled that God has chosen her. As she shares what God has done, she also recognizes what this baby means for the world and what future generations will say about her. Whatever her emotions were in the beginning of this journey, she has accepted willingly and with joy this baby that she will have.
While we haven’t had the exact experience as Mary, where an angel tells us that we’re going to have a baby! But…we’ve still heard calls from God. Calls from God to do something…Calls from God to reach out to all people…Calls from God to create disciples…Calls from God…Those calls that we hear are a lot like Mary’s news. We may have different reactions to what God is telling us, and we have a choice of what to do…
There are times when you hear that angel or you hear God calling you and you don’t want to do whatever it is… I don’t want to move away from my family! I don’t want to change jobs! I don’t want to listen to you! I’m in control of my life… I know what’s best for me… You stay out of it! If I want to take this job, I will and there’s nothing that you can do about it! You know, the thing is, that’s true to a certain extent… We do have free will and we can tell God “no” or that we don’t want to… But, God doesn’t always take no for an answer…God isn’t always so quiet when we say that we don’t want to do something….It seems easy to be in charge and to feel important by saying that “I don’t wanna…” But, in the end we know what we should do…Even if we do say no; God’s not going to leave our side… God will still be there, and encouraging us to do what God wants and knows is best… Sometimes it takes bruises along the way, but God is there right there to pick us up and waiting for us to sing our magnificat!
Before I accepted my calling to ministry, I went my own way… I told God, “That’s nice that you think I should be in ministry, but I think I should be performing on Broadway, so that’s what I’m going to do…” and “That’s nice that you think I should be in ministry, but I’m working in retail and I’m going to take that manager’s position…” Both were perfectly legitimate careers and what I thought was right and thought that I wanted…But, God had something different in mind… It took me awhile before I could finally say, “I am your servant…Let it be with me according to your will…” And there are often times when I sit back and I say, okay, you got me here… Now what? But like Mary’s magnificat tells the stories of God’s faithfulness and the stories of God’s work in the history of the Israelites , we are reminded of God’s work still…God provides whatever it is that we need… Be it strength, be it courage, be it the right words to say, be it gentleness… Whatever… God will provide…. God provided for Mary...
Having a baby was something new for Mary…She didn’t know how to do this…It was so far out of her comfort zone. But by going out of her comfort zone, she was part of one of the most amazing stories of God…By going outside of her comfort zone, she became the mother of Jesus…The baby who’s birth we celebrate, the Messiah that we rejoice in…By stepping outside of her comfort zone, she allowed God to do wonderful and amazing things through her! What are we willing to do to step out of our comfort zones for God to do wonderful and amazing things through us? It’s not easy to step outside of our comfort zones because they are just that…Comfortable. We like to be in them because they’re what we know and what we like…But how much are we willing to trust that in getting out of our comfort zones that God will be there? That as we are uncomfortable for a bit that we remember God’s faithfulness…It’s not easy and that’s why it’s important to rely on God that much more.
How much ridicule did Mary face? She must have heard so much gossip and whispers behind her back… Joseph even considered leaving her because of it! But, God provided both of them the strength that they needed to get by…God provided the refuge that they needed that night when she had the baby…God gave them all that they needed and all it took was Mary to say “I am the Lord’s servant, let it be with me according to your will…”
It’s not easy to take that step and feel “out of control” to feel like you’re “not in charge” anymore… Who wants to feel like that? But, when you know that God is in control, things just run so much easier… When you call to God and say, “A little help here!” God answers…What do you hear God calling to you today? Have you told God, no or not right now, but that question keeps creeping up? What do you hear God calling Sheridan-Norway United Methodist Church to today? Have we told God, no or not right now, but God won’t be silent? Maybe we should try this…? “I am your servant… Let it be with me according to YOUR will…. According to your will…”
Whenever I read a passage of Scripture, I read several times and each time I try and get into the character’s mind. Sometimes, I’ll read the from the same character’s point of view in different ways. This particular passage, I have read from Mary’s point of view in just about every way that I think I can. I have read her being angry, excited, nervous, sad, curious, apathetic… and each time, the meaning changes a little bit for me. Mary is such an interesting character in the Bible… We know some things about her: Her mother’s name was Anna and her cousin was Elizabeth, who was already 6 months pregnant when Mary heard from the angel… Her husband, Joseph was a carpenter from the lineage of King David… you know King David, the one who wrote most of the Psalms…She talks to angels…She prays…When the angel came to her, she was probably around 13-15, which would have been the normal time for girls in that time to get married and begin to have children…She may have had more children, including at least one other son named James, and well, there’s that other child of hers that I would hope that we know, Jesus…
For all that we think that we know about Mary, we have no idea about how she felt, which is why I often put different emotions into her sayings…
When we look at this passage in Luke, where Gabriel comes to tell Mary of this good news… It strikes me as funny that Gabriel calls it good news at first. I mean think about it… Pretend you’re Mary’s mother or Father and she comes home and tells you that she’s going to have a baby and an angel told her that it’s God’s baby… What is your reaction? Anger… Shame…Confusion…Happiness… We don’t know how Mary’s parents felt about the news. Maybe they felt all those things… They didn’t disown her…
Then there’s Joseph… If your fiancée had come to you before your wedding and told you that she was going to have a baby… But you weren’t this baby’s father, God was the father… What is your reaction? Anger…shame…confusion…happiness… You can watch just about any daytime talk show and see what other people’s reactions would be… We don’t know Joseph’s initial reaction, but we do know what he did later… He married her and raised that baby with love.
Now, both Mary and Joseph had to deal with the gossip and the rumors about her pregnancy and the confusion about their story. If you heard this story today from someone around town, would the first thing that you thought of be that this story must be true!
And, there’s one character in this story that has to deal with the entire situation from the news of the angel to telling her family and fiancée and dealing with the gossip… that’s Mary. Put yourself in her shoes for a minute… An angel comes to you and tells you that you are on earth most blessed and you are going to have a baby that is the Son of God and you will name him Jesus. What do you say? “I’m having a what?” How do you react? “That’s great news!” What on earth is going on?
Well, let’s see… we’ve got the angel Gabriel standing in front of Mary and what’s the first thing that he says to her? “Peace be with you! The Lord is with you and has greatly blessed you!” Sounds like he’s trying to butter Mary up a little bit… Like when someone is trying to get you to do something for them and instead of asking right off, they say “You look wonderful today! You are such a nice person! That project that you did turned out just perfect!” There’s the phrase “flattery will get you everywhere”… Do you think that’s what Gabriel was trying to do? Flatter Mary a little bit and before she could do anything, hit her with the news?
Mary was a little bit wiser than that…Mary didn’t quite accept Gabriel’s words… She thought about them and they made her nervous… If he was trying to butter her up, she could see right through him! Gabriel was probably able to sense her uneasiness, so he told her don’t be afraid…. Then, he began to tell her what God had in store for her. He didn’t come right out and say it though… He told her that God had been gracious to her…. And then… then came the news…. You’re going to be pregnant and have a son, you’ll name him Jesus and, by the way… This will be God’s child… Mary did question a little bit, she wasn’t married…so, how can this be?
Gabriel’s just the messenger, so how do you think he was feeling about these questions? When you have to deliver some kind of project to somebody, but you didn’t create the project and you’re confronted with questions, how long does it take before you get fed up and walk away? Well, Gabriel was a little patient, but he had to remind Mary… God can do anything!
The last sentence that Mary says is a very interesting one, depending on how you read it… It could be happy! “I am the Lord’s Servant! May it happen to me according to your will!” It could be fearful… “I am the Lord’s servant…may it happen to me according to your will...” Sad… “I am the Lord’s servant…may it happen to me according to your will…” maybe Mary just wanted to get Gabriel out of there, so she said what she thought would make him happy… “Yeah, I’m the Lord’s servant… May it happen to me according to your will… Yeah, whatever….” Each time we can see Mary differently… So, how did she say it? Well, we really don’t know… but…
There’s another part of Luke, the magnificat…In the magnifact, we have a song that Mary sings about God and how she is completely humbled that God has chosen her. As she shares what God has done, she also recognizes what this baby means for the world and what future generations will say about her. Whatever her emotions were in the beginning of this journey, she has accepted willingly and with joy this baby that she will have.
While we haven’t had the exact experience as Mary, where an angel tells us that we’re going to have a baby! But…we’ve still heard calls from God. Calls from God to do something…Calls from God to reach out to all people…Calls from God to create disciples…Calls from God…Those calls that we hear are a lot like Mary’s news. We may have different reactions to what God is telling us, and we have a choice of what to do…
There are times when you hear that angel or you hear God calling you and you don’t want to do whatever it is… I don’t want to move away from my family! I don’t want to change jobs! I don’t want to listen to you! I’m in control of my life… I know what’s best for me… You stay out of it! If I want to take this job, I will and there’s nothing that you can do about it! You know, the thing is, that’s true to a certain extent… We do have free will and we can tell God “no” or that we don’t want to… But, God doesn’t always take no for an answer…God isn’t always so quiet when we say that we don’t want to do something….It seems easy to be in charge and to feel important by saying that “I don’t wanna…” But, in the end we know what we should do…Even if we do say no; God’s not going to leave our side… God will still be there, and encouraging us to do what God wants and knows is best… Sometimes it takes bruises along the way, but God is there right there to pick us up and waiting for us to sing our magnificat!
Before I accepted my calling to ministry, I went my own way… I told God, “That’s nice that you think I should be in ministry, but I think I should be performing on Broadway, so that’s what I’m going to do…” and “That’s nice that you think I should be in ministry, but I’m working in retail and I’m going to take that manager’s position…” Both were perfectly legitimate careers and what I thought was right and thought that I wanted…But, God had something different in mind… It took me awhile before I could finally say, “I am your servant…Let it be with me according to your will…” And there are often times when I sit back and I say, okay, you got me here… Now what? But like Mary’s magnificat tells the stories of God’s faithfulness and the stories of God’s work in the history of the Israelites , we are reminded of God’s work still…God provides whatever it is that we need… Be it strength, be it courage, be it the right words to say, be it gentleness… Whatever… God will provide…. God provided for Mary...
Having a baby was something new for Mary…She didn’t know how to do this…It was so far out of her comfort zone. But by going out of her comfort zone, she was part of one of the most amazing stories of God…By going outside of her comfort zone, she became the mother of Jesus…The baby who’s birth we celebrate, the Messiah that we rejoice in…By stepping outside of her comfort zone, she allowed God to do wonderful and amazing things through her! What are we willing to do to step out of our comfort zones for God to do wonderful and amazing things through us? It’s not easy to step outside of our comfort zones because they are just that…Comfortable. We like to be in them because they’re what we know and what we like…But how much are we willing to trust that in getting out of our comfort zones that God will be there? That as we are uncomfortable for a bit that we remember God’s faithfulness…It’s not easy and that’s why it’s important to rely on God that much more.
How much ridicule did Mary face? She must have heard so much gossip and whispers behind her back… Joseph even considered leaving her because of it! But, God provided both of them the strength that they needed to get by…God provided the refuge that they needed that night when she had the baby…God gave them all that they needed and all it took was Mary to say “I am the Lord’s servant, let it be with me according to your will…”
It’s not easy to take that step and feel “out of control” to feel like you’re “not in charge” anymore… Who wants to feel like that? But, when you know that God is in control, things just run so much easier… When you call to God and say, “A little help here!” God answers…What do you hear God calling to you today? Have you told God, no or not right now, but that question keeps creeping up? What do you hear God calling Sheridan-Norway United Methodist Church to today? Have we told God, no or not right now, but God won’t be silent? Maybe we should try this…? “I am your servant… Let it be with me according to YOUR will…. According to your will…”
Friday, December 14, 2007
Top 10 Movies!
Mostly what I'm doing with these lists is giving myself a break from all the other writing that I'm doing! It's nice to not have to think for about an hour as I put this together...Thank you for indulging me!
So, movies-- Not a whole lot sticks out to me this year--either I didn't see as many movies or I wasn't as impressed with the movies that I saw. Usually, I have to really decide between several what the best movies were, but this year, I have to really think about what I saw! So, here goes! These movies may not have been released in 2007, but that's when I saw them! And there is no order to these either!
1.) SherryBaby starring Maggie Gyllenhaal-- I was very impressed by this movie. It was very well acted and the story was emotional. I was so torn throughout the whole movie-- I so wanted Sherry to succeed and I was angry everytime that she made a mistake or failed. She was a beautiful character in that she knew that she was deeply flawed and at times she worked to overcome those flaws, at times embraced those flaws and at other times she ignored those flaws.
2.) Stranger than Fiction starring Will Ferrell-- As much as I enjoy "funny Will Ferrell" I enjoy "serious Will Ferrell" that much more. This character was a nice blend of the two as it was a dark comedy. The story is fantastic in that it causes a lot of conversation about predestination and theological concepts. I love that Harold is not really happy in his own life but he has come into a routine so much that he doesn't know how to break and is not really comfortable in doing that as well.
3.) Little Miss Sunshine starring Steve Carrell, Greg Kinnear, & Abigail Breslin--I usually like most of the things that Greg Kinnear is in or at least I enjoy his peformance (there are a couple exceptions)...This movie was wonderful about a dysfunctional family that was working to make the dream of one of theirs come true. It was stunning! Yet, in their dysfunction-- when the family arrives at the Little Miss Sunshine pageant, they seem to be one of the more normal ones there! Beautifully done!
4.) The Devil Wears Prada starring Meryl Streep & Anne Hathaway--I've not read the book, but I am interested in it! I thought that this was a wonderful story about a woman who loses herself in order to make it big...she loses her values and herself in an attempt to make someone else happy. I'm planning on using this at some point for a faith and film series. That's all.
5.) Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix starring Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, & Rupert Grint--I wouldn't have categorized myself as a huge Harry Potter fan, but you would certainly have thought different this summer! I saw this movie twice in a week-- yes, that's right I am apparently a Potterhead. I can't decide if this is my favorite of the series thus far, but it was good. What I came to think about this movie in particular was that you really needed to have some familiarity either with the previous movies or the books in order to really understand what was going on. In terms of being a series, this movie pushes things along quite nicely. I can't wait to see what happens with the last 2 movies!
6.) The Queen starring Helen Mirren--I'm not sure how accurate this movie is or how much it tries to be, but it is completely intriguing to look into the royal family, especially the Queen during the period of time between Princess Diana's death and her funeral. Helen Mirren played a Queen who was trying to stay true to her tradition as queen in a world that didn't necessarily value the role in the same way in the past. While this speaks to a specific situation, the themes are some that play anywhere!
7.) Sliding Doors starring Gwyneth Paltrow--The premise behind this movie is very though provoking! Gwyneth Paltrow plays Helen and what would happen in Helen's life had she missed the train and missed catching her boyfriend cheat on her or if she had caught the train and caught him cheating on her. So interesting to think of the power of a moment and what small things may happen in life to change the whole course of things. It was complicated to watch at times because both "lives" ran concurrently and sometimes it was difficult to rememeber which Helen I was watching, but I loved this one and I think that it has some amazing sermon potential!
8.)Born into Brothels--This documentary was so powerful. It followed the lives of children taking a photography class in Clacutta, but these children were born and raised in a brothel where their mothers were prositutes. It was heartbreaking to watch these children and some of them had glimmers of hope about them and looked at how they could get out of the brothel and make something more of their lives, but how they were so trapped and even as some of them tried to get out and go to school, their families brought them back to the brothel and some of the girls were even left with the option of becoming prostitutes themselves. I wept for these children and the lives that they live.
9.) Who the #$&% Is Jackson Pollock?--This documentary followed a painting that is allegedly by famed painter Jackson Pollock. The woman who "discovered" this painting bought it as a joke for a friend and thought that it was garbage, but has since spent years and thousands of dollars to prove that this painting she bought for $5 is worth millions. What I found most interesting in this was not the technical jargon about proving this painting, but the way this woman has been treated by the art world. Teri Horton is a gruff, southern woman who is not refined in any way, nor is she interested in refining herself! She drinks, smokes, swears, and speaks her mind...Something that isn't really accepted in the art world. It's a very interesting interplay!
10.) Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan starring Sacha Baron Cohen--There is much about this movie that is offensive and disgusting and shouldn't be seen by anyone. However...with this movie, I think that you can go to it, not think and find it hilarious or you can think about it and realize that there is so much more going on in this movie. It is so interesting to watch what people's reactions are to Borat's comments and actions. From clapping and cheering as Borat says that he supports our "War of Terror" to his absurd reactions at a dinner party. I would also say that if you are not offended by something in this movie, you didn't really watch it!
So, there's the new list! Leave your thoughts!
So, movies-- Not a whole lot sticks out to me this year--either I didn't see as many movies or I wasn't as impressed with the movies that I saw. Usually, I have to really decide between several what the best movies were, but this year, I have to really think about what I saw! So, here goes! These movies may not have been released in 2007, but that's when I saw them! And there is no order to these either!
1.) SherryBaby starring Maggie Gyllenhaal-- I was very impressed by this movie. It was very well acted and the story was emotional. I was so torn throughout the whole movie-- I so wanted Sherry to succeed and I was angry everytime that she made a mistake or failed. She was a beautiful character in that she knew that she was deeply flawed and at times she worked to overcome those flaws, at times embraced those flaws and at other times she ignored those flaws.
2.) Stranger than Fiction starring Will Ferrell-- As much as I enjoy "funny Will Ferrell" I enjoy "serious Will Ferrell" that much more. This character was a nice blend of the two as it was a dark comedy. The story is fantastic in that it causes a lot of conversation about predestination and theological concepts. I love that Harold is not really happy in his own life but he has come into a routine so much that he doesn't know how to break and is not really comfortable in doing that as well.
3.) Little Miss Sunshine starring Steve Carrell, Greg Kinnear, & Abigail Breslin--I usually like most of the things that Greg Kinnear is in or at least I enjoy his peformance (there are a couple exceptions)...This movie was wonderful about a dysfunctional family that was working to make the dream of one of theirs come true. It was stunning! Yet, in their dysfunction-- when the family arrives at the Little Miss Sunshine pageant, they seem to be one of the more normal ones there! Beautifully done!
4.) The Devil Wears Prada starring Meryl Streep & Anne Hathaway--I've not read the book, but I am interested in it! I thought that this was a wonderful story about a woman who loses herself in order to make it big...she loses her values and herself in an attempt to make someone else happy. I'm planning on using this at some point for a faith and film series. That's all.
5.) Harry Potter & The Order of the Phoenix starring Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, & Rupert Grint--I wouldn't have categorized myself as a huge Harry Potter fan, but you would certainly have thought different this summer! I saw this movie twice in a week-- yes, that's right I am apparently a Potterhead. I can't decide if this is my favorite of the series thus far, but it was good. What I came to think about this movie in particular was that you really needed to have some familiarity either with the previous movies or the books in order to really understand what was going on. In terms of being a series, this movie pushes things along quite nicely. I can't wait to see what happens with the last 2 movies!
6.) The Queen starring Helen Mirren--I'm not sure how accurate this movie is or how much it tries to be, but it is completely intriguing to look into the royal family, especially the Queen during the period of time between Princess Diana's death and her funeral. Helen Mirren played a Queen who was trying to stay true to her tradition as queen in a world that didn't necessarily value the role in the same way in the past. While this speaks to a specific situation, the themes are some that play anywhere!
7.) Sliding Doors starring Gwyneth Paltrow--The premise behind this movie is very though provoking! Gwyneth Paltrow plays Helen and what would happen in Helen's life had she missed the train and missed catching her boyfriend cheat on her or if she had caught the train and caught him cheating on her. So interesting to think of the power of a moment and what small things may happen in life to change the whole course of things. It was complicated to watch at times because both "lives" ran concurrently and sometimes it was difficult to rememeber which Helen I was watching, but I loved this one and I think that it has some amazing sermon potential!
8.)Born into Brothels--This documentary was so powerful. It followed the lives of children taking a photography class in Clacutta, but these children were born and raised in a brothel where their mothers were prositutes. It was heartbreaking to watch these children and some of them had glimmers of hope about them and looked at how they could get out of the brothel and make something more of their lives, but how they were so trapped and even as some of them tried to get out and go to school, their families brought them back to the brothel and some of the girls were even left with the option of becoming prostitutes themselves. I wept for these children and the lives that they live.
9.) Who the #$&% Is Jackson Pollock?--This documentary followed a painting that is allegedly by famed painter Jackson Pollock. The woman who "discovered" this painting bought it as a joke for a friend and thought that it was garbage, but has since spent years and thousands of dollars to prove that this painting she bought for $5 is worth millions. What I found most interesting in this was not the technical jargon about proving this painting, but the way this woman has been treated by the art world. Teri Horton is a gruff, southern woman who is not refined in any way, nor is she interested in refining herself! She drinks, smokes, swears, and speaks her mind...Something that isn't really accepted in the art world. It's a very interesting interplay!
10.) Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan starring Sacha Baron Cohen--There is much about this movie that is offensive and disgusting and shouldn't be seen by anyone. However...with this movie, I think that you can go to it, not think and find it hilarious or you can think about it and realize that there is so much more going on in this movie. It is so interesting to watch what people's reactions are to Borat's comments and actions. From clapping and cheering as Borat says that he supports our "War of Terror" to his absurd reactions at a dinner party. I would also say that if you are not offended by something in this movie, you didn't really watch it!
So, there's the new list! Leave your thoughts!
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Top 10 Songs
Well, even though I just did the top 10 CDs, there are some songs that were tops for me even if the CDs weren't. So, I thought I'd share those with you! Again, these are songs that may not have been recorded or released in 2007, but that's when I got hooked on them...Also, these are in no particular order!
1.) Over the Rhine--The Seahorse--You're probably getting sick of me pimping Over the Rhine, but I can't tell you just how in love I am with their music. This song in particular isn't on any of the 3 CDs from yesterday, but I literally pressed repeat on this song at least 6 times in a row everytime I heard it. While the lyrics are beautiful, I think that it's more of the musical content--Karin Bergquist is the lead singer and her voice is so melodious and wistful...I love it! Sample lyric: Suddenly I'm weightless. Gravity is mine. I see it with my eyes closed,what my heart knows: we must leave this world behind.
2.) Tobymac F/ Nirva Dorsaint--No Ordinary Love-- Overall, I really think that Tobymac's new CD was a big disappointment this year (at least for me), I had such big hopes for this album and while Toby always puts on a good show and that helped with the music, I was not please with the CD...However, this son was one of the couple standouts! Nirva's powerhouse of a voice was finally given a chance to shine on this song! The song was so catchy and I found it my go-to song this year when I wanted something that I could sing at the top of my lungs! Sample lyric: I refuse to believe we're a dying breed. Children of peace, hope and harmony
3.) Kelly Clarkson--Never Again--I absolutely loved Kelly's last album, and while I haven't listened to her new one, simply by the fact that there haven't been many songs released, makes me think I won't like it much! But, this song was amazing! There is so much passion both in the lyrics and the way that Kelly sings and performs it. There is no doubt that behind this song is a woman scorned. I love that it is so emotional and that it comes from such a personal place that she is able to share with all who listen to it. There is no doubt that Kelly can sing! Sample lyric: You wrote me in a letter. You couldn't say it right to my face. Give me that Sunday school answer. Repent yourself away.
4.) Reba McEntire & Justin Timberlake--The Only Promise that Remains--This song is just so gorgeous-- I fell in love with it when Reba & Justin performed it on the Oprah show. The song is haunting and gorgeous and Justin wrote it specifically for Reba...Nothing short of beautiful! I used this song for a powerpoint for a funeral that I did for a younger man and it fit what his family described to me perfectly. For that reason, this song will hold a special place in my heart and will bring tears to my eyes whenever I hear it. Sample lyrics: And you should wonder if I still love you. If you feel the darkness comin', risin' inside, I'll make a light to guide you back home.
5.) Ashley Tisdale--He Said She Said--I'm not going to lie, this is my complete guilty pleasure for the year...Ashley Tisdale, one of Disney's starlets and one of the epitomes of tweener music...And her song made my top songs of 2007....Now that you're finished laughing or being disgusted, let me try and justify....This song is so catchy and one of those songs to dance to when you're cleaning the house or working and need a really good beat. The lyrics are risque for a Disney star, which explains why on her myspace site the lyrics are a bit cleaner. Lyrically, this is not one of the more intelligent songs on the list, but it's the musical nature of the song that gets me ready to move! Sample lyric: He said your amazing. She said then why you waiting? No more deliberating. Wat'cha doin' lets get to movin'.
6.) Emmy Rossum--Slow Me Down--I got Emmy Rossum's EP and I haven't quite decided if I would get her CD...Maybe if I get an itunes gift card for Christmas! This song describes my life so well that it's scary...It's one of those songs that I wonder why someone read my journal and put it to music. Musically, it took me a couple times to like it because it's very synth heavy and very produced, which may be why I'm hesitating to get the CD...But this song is gorgeous once you can get past that! The layering of her voice, although produced, is necessary. If you get any of her songs, I would suggest this one! Sample lyric: My head and my heart are colliding chaotic, pace of the world I just wish I could stop it. Try to appear like I've got it together, I'm falling apart.
7.) Maroon 5--Wake Up Call--This song has something so disturbing about it and I don't really condone violence in any situation, but this song was so catchy that it was easy to overcome the lyrics. But, when I sing along with something, I like to be able to know what I'm singing! This is a great song though! Sample Lyric: Came without a warning so I had to shoot him dead. He won't come around here anymore. Come around here? I don't think so.
8.) Relient K--Deathbed--This was another CD that was disappointing this year...It's not a bad CD by any means, but it just couldn't hold up to their CD mmhmm, which was just amazing. This one has some stellar songs, but overall disappointing...One of the standouts is the last song, which is 12 minutes! Deathbed tells the story of an old man on his deathbed and is just an epic song. There is a wonderful interplay of happy sounding music and thoughtful sounding. The addition of Jonathon Foreman as Jesus is wonderful too! Sample Lyric: I can smell the death on the sheets, Covering me. I can't believe this is the end. I can hear those sad memories Still haunting me So many thingsI'd do again.
9.) Beth Hart--Bottle of Jesus--Beth Hart's smoky voice is simply gorgeous! Her style of music is wonderful too-- a harder sound than pop, but softer than a hard rock...Amazing. The CD that this came from was thisclose to being on the top 10 list, but I thought that I put it on a couple years ago (I was wrong!) I love to listen to this song when I'm letting off steam and need to break out a bottle of Jesus! Sample lyric: Break out, the bottle of Jesus. Plug in, the black light rosary (rosary). And somebody's waiting to save me, yeah.
10.) Over the Rhine--She--I debated whether or not to put this on the list because I had raved about it so much last blog, but I had to because it was one of my most played songs this year. This song is haunting and precious...I think it's one that everyone can relate to in terms of not necessarily a person, but something to give up...I am absolutely stunned when I hear it each time and it's one that I can't listen to in the car, because I have to sht my eyes when I hear it! I absolutely love this song! Sample lyric: But she cuts herself, On you every night. She's just dying To lay down the knife.
So there are my thoughts again! Let me know what you think!!
1.) Over the Rhine--The Seahorse--You're probably getting sick of me pimping Over the Rhine, but I can't tell you just how in love I am with their music. This song in particular isn't on any of the 3 CDs from yesterday, but I literally pressed repeat on this song at least 6 times in a row everytime I heard it. While the lyrics are beautiful, I think that it's more of the musical content--Karin Bergquist is the lead singer and her voice is so melodious and wistful...I love it! Sample lyric: Suddenly I'm weightless. Gravity is mine. I see it with my eyes closed,what my heart knows: we must leave this world behind.
2.) Tobymac F/ Nirva Dorsaint--No Ordinary Love-- Overall, I really think that Tobymac's new CD was a big disappointment this year (at least for me), I had such big hopes for this album and while Toby always puts on a good show and that helped with the music, I was not please with the CD...However, this son was one of the couple standouts! Nirva's powerhouse of a voice was finally given a chance to shine on this song! The song was so catchy and I found it my go-to song this year when I wanted something that I could sing at the top of my lungs! Sample lyric: I refuse to believe we're a dying breed. Children of peace, hope and harmony
3.) Kelly Clarkson--Never Again--I absolutely loved Kelly's last album, and while I haven't listened to her new one, simply by the fact that there haven't been many songs released, makes me think I won't like it much! But, this song was amazing! There is so much passion both in the lyrics and the way that Kelly sings and performs it. There is no doubt that behind this song is a woman scorned. I love that it is so emotional and that it comes from such a personal place that she is able to share with all who listen to it. There is no doubt that Kelly can sing! Sample lyric: You wrote me in a letter. You couldn't say it right to my face. Give me that Sunday school answer. Repent yourself away.
4.) Reba McEntire & Justin Timberlake--The Only Promise that Remains--This song is just so gorgeous-- I fell in love with it when Reba & Justin performed it on the Oprah show. The song is haunting and gorgeous and Justin wrote it specifically for Reba...Nothing short of beautiful! I used this song for a powerpoint for a funeral that I did for a younger man and it fit what his family described to me perfectly. For that reason, this song will hold a special place in my heart and will bring tears to my eyes whenever I hear it. Sample lyrics: And you should wonder if I still love you. If you feel the darkness comin', risin' inside, I'll make a light to guide you back home.
5.) Ashley Tisdale--He Said She Said--I'm not going to lie, this is my complete guilty pleasure for the year...Ashley Tisdale, one of Disney's starlets and one of the epitomes of tweener music...And her song made my top songs of 2007....Now that you're finished laughing or being disgusted, let me try and justify....This song is so catchy and one of those songs to dance to when you're cleaning the house or working and need a really good beat. The lyrics are risque for a Disney star, which explains why on her myspace site the lyrics are a bit cleaner. Lyrically, this is not one of the more intelligent songs on the list, but it's the musical nature of the song that gets me ready to move! Sample lyric: He said your amazing. She said then why you waiting? No more deliberating. Wat'cha doin' lets get to movin'.
6.) Emmy Rossum--Slow Me Down--I got Emmy Rossum's EP and I haven't quite decided if I would get her CD...Maybe if I get an itunes gift card for Christmas! This song describes my life so well that it's scary...It's one of those songs that I wonder why someone read my journal and put it to music. Musically, it took me a couple times to like it because it's very synth heavy and very produced, which may be why I'm hesitating to get the CD...But this song is gorgeous once you can get past that! The layering of her voice, although produced, is necessary. If you get any of her songs, I would suggest this one! Sample lyric: My head and my heart are colliding chaotic, pace of the world I just wish I could stop it. Try to appear like I've got it together, I'm falling apart.
7.) Maroon 5--Wake Up Call--This song has something so disturbing about it and I don't really condone violence in any situation, but this song was so catchy that it was easy to overcome the lyrics. But, when I sing along with something, I like to be able to know what I'm singing! This is a great song though! Sample Lyric: Came without a warning so I had to shoot him dead. He won't come around here anymore. Come around here? I don't think so.
8.) Relient K--Deathbed--This was another CD that was disappointing this year...It's not a bad CD by any means, but it just couldn't hold up to their CD mmhmm, which was just amazing. This one has some stellar songs, but overall disappointing...One of the standouts is the last song, which is 12 minutes! Deathbed tells the story of an old man on his deathbed and is just an epic song. There is a wonderful interplay of happy sounding music and thoughtful sounding. The addition of Jonathon Foreman as Jesus is wonderful too! Sample Lyric: I can smell the death on the sheets, Covering me. I can't believe this is the end. I can hear those sad memories Still haunting me So many thingsI'd do again.
9.) Beth Hart--Bottle of Jesus--Beth Hart's smoky voice is simply gorgeous! Her style of music is wonderful too-- a harder sound than pop, but softer than a hard rock...Amazing. The CD that this came from was thisclose to being on the top 10 list, but I thought that I put it on a couple years ago (I was wrong!) I love to listen to this song when I'm letting off steam and need to break out a bottle of Jesus! Sample lyric: Break out, the bottle of Jesus. Plug in, the black light rosary (rosary). And somebody's waiting to save me, yeah.
10.) Over the Rhine--She--I debated whether or not to put this on the list because I had raved about it so much last blog, but I had to because it was one of my most played songs this year. This song is haunting and precious...I think it's one that everyone can relate to in terms of not necessarily a person, but something to give up...I am absolutely stunned when I hear it each time and it's one that I can't listen to in the car, because I have to sht my eyes when I hear it! I absolutely love this song! Sample lyric: But she cuts herself, On you every night. She's just dying To lay down the knife.
So there are my thoughts again! Let me know what you think!!
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Top 10 CDs
I know what you're thinking...It's not quite the end of the year yet, so how can you have a top 10 list of CDs?? Well, I don't think that anything is going to change in the next few weeks and if it does, I'll eat my words...
So, here are my top 10 CDs of 2007...These CDs are not necessarily ones that were released in 2007, but that's when they saw major rotation in my CD player. They are also inno particular order, just the top 10!
1.) Reba McEntire--Reba Duets-- I grew up listening to Reba and I have loved her voice and her music. I'm not always a fan of country music, but sometimes it just sticks...This CD is just amazing. I absolutely love it! Reba has skillfully picked amazing artists to duet with and the songs that they sing together are chosen perfectly. I saw her with Kelly Clarkson & Justin Timberlake on Oprah, which is why I decided to get it, and I am so glad that I did! I don't think that there's a bad song on the CD...Songs to listen to: The Only Promise that Remains, Everyday People, Sleeping With the Telephone
2.) Bon Jovi--Lost Higway --I hadn't been a huge Bon Jovi fan ever...I know that there were songs that I liked of his, but not ever enough to make me think that I really needed to get a CD or to be all that interested in the group! I have to be honest and say that it was their performance on American Idol that hooked me...The song You Want to Make a Memory is just gorgeous-- I loved it! After seeing them do several interviews, I decided to pick it up! I haven't been disappointed! Songs to listen to: You Want to Make a Memory, Everybody's Broken, Seat Next to You
3.) Over the Rhine: Trumpet Child--I just discovered Over the Rhine this year and they made my top artist list! The lyrics are simply stunning and poingant...Sometimes very critical, sometimes biting, always thought provoking! And the musical quality is nothing to sneer at as well-- there is a beautiful mixture of piano and guitar and other subtle instruments as well-- nothing overpowers the vocal quality. I am so enjoying this group! Songs to Listen to: Trouble, Nothing is Innocent, Entertaining Thoughts
4.) Daughtry--Daughtry--Last year this one got honorable mention because I hadn't had enough time with it, but it absolutely made it this year! I absolutely love this sound and style-- it's hard rock, but not really too hard. The lyrics are also amazing and at times really make you stop and think! When I saw Daughtry in concert this summer, I was captivated-- they are a great performing group and have more talent than they know what to do with...Although I was disappointed when Chris was voted off American Idol, I'm glad that he was because I'm not sure that he would have made this album! Songs to listen to: Home, All These Lives, Crashed
5.) Various Artists (Soundtrack)--Dreamgirls--I need to say first that I am not a huge fan of Beyonce, but there is no denying that she does have talent. It wasn't her that sold this album for me! I loved the movie and got chills during Jennifer Hudson's performance of And I Am Telling You...The soundtrack is wonderful and there are songs on there that are just moving and some that are just fun! Songs to listen to: And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going, One Night Only, Patience, I Meant You No Harm (Jimmy's Rap)
6.) Over the Rhine--Ohio--The second OtR showing (and probably not the last!)....This is actually the first Over the Rhine CD that I listened to and it was the song She that stopped me in my tracks. I had my iPod on shuffle and was doing something around the house and literally stopped to hear the song. I pressed repeat at least 4 times right away. I figured if I was so in love with one song, I should listen to the whole CD! I have not been disappointed! Songs to listen to: What I'll Remember Most, Jesus in New Orleans, Ohio, She
7.) Josh Groban--Awake--Another honorable mention from last year! I did get to spend some good time with this one this year and I also got to see him in concert in February! This young man has some amazing talent-- his voice is amazing! I'm not going to lie-- I'm jealous!! I am so impressed with his range and although he may not have a show personality, he has the voice to capture attention! I love this CD because of the rich influences-- he branches out into some African music and uses some African artists which are just gorgeous duets! I can't say enough about this one! Songs to Listen to: February Song, Lullaby, Weeping, Machine
8.) Hinder--Extreme Behavior--This is another one that I was actually kind of surprised that I like! I'm not normally a huge fan of harder rock, but this is another one that's commercial enough that I can listen to and absolutley love! I got it because Lips of an Angel was an addictive song this summer and even though I don't advocate infidelity, the song was touching and kind of romantic! Songs to listen to: Bliss (I Don't Want to Know), Nothing Good About Goodbye, Get Stoned (Piano version)
9.) Over the Rhine--Drunkard's Prayer-- I don't know what else I can add that I haven't already...If you aren't familiar with Over The Rhine-- get familiar with them! Songs to listen to: I Want You to Be My Love, Little Did I Know, Bluer
10.) Carrie Underwood--Some Hearts--This actually should have made the list a couple years ago, but better late than never! I haven't gotten her new one yet, or borrowed someone else's copy at least! But, this one is never a disappointment and especially when I'm in the car for a long period of time, this one gets put into rotation with out a question! Songs to listen to: The Night Before (Life Goes On), Jesus Take the Wheel, Before He Cheats
So there it is...Leave me your thoughts!
So, here are my top 10 CDs of 2007...These CDs are not necessarily ones that were released in 2007, but that's when they saw major rotation in my CD player. They are also inno particular order, just the top 10!
1.) Reba McEntire--Reba Duets-- I grew up listening to Reba and I have loved her voice and her music. I'm not always a fan of country music, but sometimes it just sticks...This CD is just amazing. I absolutely love it! Reba has skillfully picked amazing artists to duet with and the songs that they sing together are chosen perfectly. I saw her with Kelly Clarkson & Justin Timberlake on Oprah, which is why I decided to get it, and I am so glad that I did! I don't think that there's a bad song on the CD...Songs to listen to: The Only Promise that Remains, Everyday People, Sleeping With the Telephone
2.) Bon Jovi--Lost Higway --I hadn't been a huge Bon Jovi fan ever...I know that there were songs that I liked of his, but not ever enough to make me think that I really needed to get a CD or to be all that interested in the group! I have to be honest and say that it was their performance on American Idol that hooked me...The song You Want to Make a Memory is just gorgeous-- I loved it! After seeing them do several interviews, I decided to pick it up! I haven't been disappointed! Songs to listen to: You Want to Make a Memory, Everybody's Broken, Seat Next to You
3.) Over the Rhine: Trumpet Child--I just discovered Over the Rhine this year and they made my top artist list! The lyrics are simply stunning and poingant...Sometimes very critical, sometimes biting, always thought provoking! And the musical quality is nothing to sneer at as well-- there is a beautiful mixture of piano and guitar and other subtle instruments as well-- nothing overpowers the vocal quality. I am so enjoying this group! Songs to Listen to: Trouble, Nothing is Innocent, Entertaining Thoughts
4.) Daughtry--Daughtry--Last year this one got honorable mention because I hadn't had enough time with it, but it absolutely made it this year! I absolutely love this sound and style-- it's hard rock, but not really too hard. The lyrics are also amazing and at times really make you stop and think! When I saw Daughtry in concert this summer, I was captivated-- they are a great performing group and have more talent than they know what to do with...Although I was disappointed when Chris was voted off American Idol, I'm glad that he was because I'm not sure that he would have made this album! Songs to listen to: Home, All These Lives, Crashed
5.) Various Artists (Soundtrack)--Dreamgirls--I need to say first that I am not a huge fan of Beyonce, but there is no denying that she does have talent. It wasn't her that sold this album for me! I loved the movie and got chills during Jennifer Hudson's performance of And I Am Telling You...The soundtrack is wonderful and there are songs on there that are just moving and some that are just fun! Songs to listen to: And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going, One Night Only, Patience, I Meant You No Harm (Jimmy's Rap)
6.) Over the Rhine--Ohio--The second OtR showing (and probably not the last!)....This is actually the first Over the Rhine CD that I listened to and it was the song She that stopped me in my tracks. I had my iPod on shuffle and was doing something around the house and literally stopped to hear the song. I pressed repeat at least 4 times right away. I figured if I was so in love with one song, I should listen to the whole CD! I have not been disappointed! Songs to listen to: What I'll Remember Most, Jesus in New Orleans, Ohio, She
7.) Josh Groban--Awake--Another honorable mention from last year! I did get to spend some good time with this one this year and I also got to see him in concert in February! This young man has some amazing talent-- his voice is amazing! I'm not going to lie-- I'm jealous!! I am so impressed with his range and although he may not have a show personality, he has the voice to capture attention! I love this CD because of the rich influences-- he branches out into some African music and uses some African artists which are just gorgeous duets! I can't say enough about this one! Songs to Listen to: February Song, Lullaby, Weeping, Machine
8.) Hinder--Extreme Behavior--This is another one that I was actually kind of surprised that I like! I'm not normally a huge fan of harder rock, but this is another one that's commercial enough that I can listen to and absolutley love! I got it because Lips of an Angel was an addictive song this summer and even though I don't advocate infidelity, the song was touching and kind of romantic! Songs to listen to: Bliss (I Don't Want to Know), Nothing Good About Goodbye, Get Stoned (Piano version)
9.) Over the Rhine--Drunkard's Prayer-- I don't know what else I can add that I haven't already...If you aren't familiar with Over The Rhine-- get familiar with them! Songs to listen to: I Want You to Be My Love, Little Did I Know, Bluer
10.) Carrie Underwood--Some Hearts--This actually should have made the list a couple years ago, but better late than never! I haven't gotten her new one yet, or borrowed someone else's copy at least! But, this one is never a disappointment and especially when I'm in the car for a long period of time, this one gets put into rotation with out a question! Songs to listen to: The Night Before (Life Goes On), Jesus Take the Wheel, Before He Cheats
So there it is...Leave me your thoughts!
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Look At All These Crooked Roads! (Not the real title, but go with it!)
Look at all these crooked roads!
The season of Advent is about preparation…We are preparing for the birth of Jesus, the baby who would become a king, the savior, the messiah….Advent is the time when we prepare for that…It’s four weeks of preparation….And it’s more than the preparations that we make for our homes and celebrations—sure we have baking, decorating, shopping, wrapping and other things to do in order to get ready for celebrations of Christmas with friends and families….But it’s also about preparing our lives for the birth of Jesus…For the next 2 weeks we’ll be looking at what it means to make those preparations and some of the words of those who came before Jesus…Those who helped to prepare the way…
We have passages this morning from Isaiah and about John…The two are separated by thousands of years and may seem to have very little in common…If we look at just these two passages from Isaiah and Matthew, the two almost seem like polar opposites! But, that’s just the surface, because these two are more alike than one would think.
Isaiah is promising a vision of hope and a new ruler…The new ruler will be wise, righteous, the Spirit of Lord will be upon him…in contrast to most of the rulers that Israel had in the last few years…They were used to having kings and rulers who were corrupt and not following what God wanted. Isaiah paints a picture of the future…Not just the future of Israel, but God’s future.
And more than Isaiah talking about the future and what maybe, could be, someday, but the future that the people of Israel were to live into…In this future there are beautiful pictures of reconciliation painted in Isaiah’s words. Isaiah paints pictures of animals that wouldn’t normally be seen together as getting along and in peace with one another…The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, the cow and the bear, the lion will eat straw like the fox…Beautiful imagery that Isaiah is using about the reconciliation that is to be in the future…Reconciliation that doesn’t happen overnight, but comes with work. It comes by being intentional about reaching out to all people…To not keep anyone away…
Now of course, with any passage of Scripture, there was an audience intended to hear it…In this case, the people of Israel…But, it’s not just the people of Israel that need to hear this message. That’s what makes Scripture a living document…It speaks not only to the times then, but to us now…
As Isaiah talks about reconciliation, we can think of our own world…Surely there are places in the world that are experiencing times where there are troubles and times of hardship, where there is no reconciliation. Places like the Sudan, Congo, and Uganda where thousands of people are being killed…It feels like there is no concept of reconciliation for the world…And reconciliation doesn’t happen at tables and chairs with leaders talking about what’s best…It happens in the actions. In South Africa going back to the 1940’s, apartheid was the norm. Apartheid was a government sponsored racism…The black Africans were treated as lower class compared to the white Africans. It was an unjust system that people lived in…Homes were taken from black Africans because a white African wanted it…People were put into prison, murdered, and many other things happened because of apartheid. When apartheid was overturned, one of the ways to help with healing of the country was to have times of reconciliation…One person who may have wronged another had the opportunity to apologize and ask forgiveness and it would be granted as a way to help in reconciliation…The system has worked fairly well, there is still a lot of pain and hurt from 50 years that doesn’t go away with an apology, but it is a step in working towards reconciliation…When the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, the lion shall eat straw…
And while this passage from Isaiah points to the world and places that need reconciliation in the world…It’s also for us as individuals and for us as a community, the Church. Where are we pushing for the wolf to dwell with the lamb…Where are we inviting someone that we wouldn’t normally to join in the fellowship of Christ…Where are we inviting the wolf to dwell with the lamb and the lion to eat straw? Where are we being invited for the wolf to dwell with the lamb and the lion to eat straw? Because the vision of God’s future starts now and is something that we are working to build up and to live into…Living into God’s future…
John almost picks up where some may have misinterpreted Isaiah’s message…Because Isaiah’s message of God’s vision for the future could be interpreted as something that will happen, not something that we take part in…Something that requires something of us…That’s what John is telling people in his sermon…That there is something that we need to do and that we do play a part in the vision for the future—we are living into the future.
But when we’re invited into the future, we have to give up ourselves in the meantime…It’s not our plans for the future, but it’s God’s plan…It’s not what we want to happen, but it’s what God wants to happen. When we join with God, we give up ourselves…We can’t do what God is about to do, but we are invited to join in and in doing so, we give up ourselves. And that’s not easy to do, nor is it something that our society advocates…
What does it mean to give up ourselves? Well that’s a big question and it does mean different things at different times in life…At least specifically…It means putting ourselves aside in order for God to work…It may mean saying, “I don’t like the music, but I know God works through it to reach people.” It may mean saying, “I don’t like the way you’re doing things, but I know God is working through that to reach people.” It may mean saying, “That makes me uncomfortable, but I know that God is working through it.” It means putting yourself aside in order for God to work.
The irony of that is that it is through God that we are able to put ourselves aside…Yes, it is something that we have to choose to do, but it’s something that we can do through God and asking God for strength, wisdom, and help in putting ourselves aside.
John is not saying these things just to say them or for them to be associated with Isaiah or any other prophet for that matter…It doesn’t hurt that messages fit together, but John is proclaiming the One who is coming who is more powerful than he is—who is coming after him…He’s talking about his cousin, Jesus…The baby that was born, whose birth we celebrate on Christmas…The baby who we are preparing for in this season of Advent. The baby who would grow into the man we recognize as the Messiah…
The One who challenged the structures, who brought about reconciliation, who called people out of their comfort zones to work for God…The One who still calls to us today to bring about reconciliation, to get out of our comfort zones to work for God…We have all been called to follow this One…This One who is called Jesus…Where will you put yourself aside? Where will you work for reconciliation? How are you preparing for the celebration of Christmas? Beyond the ribbons and bows and cookies and trees, prepare your hearts for Advent; join in the work of God happening…
The season of Advent is about preparation…We are preparing for the birth of Jesus, the baby who would become a king, the savior, the messiah….Advent is the time when we prepare for that…It’s four weeks of preparation….And it’s more than the preparations that we make for our homes and celebrations—sure we have baking, decorating, shopping, wrapping and other things to do in order to get ready for celebrations of Christmas with friends and families….But it’s also about preparing our lives for the birth of Jesus…For the next 2 weeks we’ll be looking at what it means to make those preparations and some of the words of those who came before Jesus…Those who helped to prepare the way…
We have passages this morning from Isaiah and about John…The two are separated by thousands of years and may seem to have very little in common…If we look at just these two passages from Isaiah and Matthew, the two almost seem like polar opposites! But, that’s just the surface, because these two are more alike than one would think.
Isaiah is promising a vision of hope and a new ruler…The new ruler will be wise, righteous, the Spirit of Lord will be upon him…in contrast to most of the rulers that Israel had in the last few years…They were used to having kings and rulers who were corrupt and not following what God wanted. Isaiah paints a picture of the future…Not just the future of Israel, but God’s future.
And more than Isaiah talking about the future and what maybe, could be, someday, but the future that the people of Israel were to live into…In this future there are beautiful pictures of reconciliation painted in Isaiah’s words. Isaiah paints pictures of animals that wouldn’t normally be seen together as getting along and in peace with one another…The wolf shall dwell with the lamb, the cow and the bear, the lion will eat straw like the fox…Beautiful imagery that Isaiah is using about the reconciliation that is to be in the future…Reconciliation that doesn’t happen overnight, but comes with work. It comes by being intentional about reaching out to all people…To not keep anyone away…
Now of course, with any passage of Scripture, there was an audience intended to hear it…In this case, the people of Israel…But, it’s not just the people of Israel that need to hear this message. That’s what makes Scripture a living document…It speaks not only to the times then, but to us now…
As Isaiah talks about reconciliation, we can think of our own world…Surely there are places in the world that are experiencing times where there are troubles and times of hardship, where there is no reconciliation. Places like the Sudan, Congo, and Uganda where thousands of people are being killed…It feels like there is no concept of reconciliation for the world…And reconciliation doesn’t happen at tables and chairs with leaders talking about what’s best…It happens in the actions. In South Africa going back to the 1940’s, apartheid was the norm. Apartheid was a government sponsored racism…The black Africans were treated as lower class compared to the white Africans. It was an unjust system that people lived in…Homes were taken from black Africans because a white African wanted it…People were put into prison, murdered, and many other things happened because of apartheid. When apartheid was overturned, one of the ways to help with healing of the country was to have times of reconciliation…One person who may have wronged another had the opportunity to apologize and ask forgiveness and it would be granted as a way to help in reconciliation…The system has worked fairly well, there is still a lot of pain and hurt from 50 years that doesn’t go away with an apology, but it is a step in working towards reconciliation…When the wolf shall dwell with the lamb, the lion shall eat straw…
And while this passage from Isaiah points to the world and places that need reconciliation in the world…It’s also for us as individuals and for us as a community, the Church. Where are we pushing for the wolf to dwell with the lamb…Where are we inviting someone that we wouldn’t normally to join in the fellowship of Christ…Where are we inviting the wolf to dwell with the lamb and the lion to eat straw? Where are we being invited for the wolf to dwell with the lamb and the lion to eat straw? Because the vision of God’s future starts now and is something that we are working to build up and to live into…Living into God’s future…
John almost picks up where some may have misinterpreted Isaiah’s message…Because Isaiah’s message of God’s vision for the future could be interpreted as something that will happen, not something that we take part in…Something that requires something of us…That’s what John is telling people in his sermon…That there is something that we need to do and that we do play a part in the vision for the future—we are living into the future.
But when we’re invited into the future, we have to give up ourselves in the meantime…It’s not our plans for the future, but it’s God’s plan…It’s not what we want to happen, but it’s what God wants to happen. When we join with God, we give up ourselves…We can’t do what God is about to do, but we are invited to join in and in doing so, we give up ourselves. And that’s not easy to do, nor is it something that our society advocates…
What does it mean to give up ourselves? Well that’s a big question and it does mean different things at different times in life…At least specifically…It means putting ourselves aside in order for God to work…It may mean saying, “I don’t like the music, but I know God works through it to reach people.” It may mean saying, “I don’t like the way you’re doing things, but I know God is working through that to reach people.” It may mean saying, “That makes me uncomfortable, but I know that God is working through it.” It means putting yourself aside in order for God to work.
The irony of that is that it is through God that we are able to put ourselves aside…Yes, it is something that we have to choose to do, but it’s something that we can do through God and asking God for strength, wisdom, and help in putting ourselves aside.
John is not saying these things just to say them or for them to be associated with Isaiah or any other prophet for that matter…It doesn’t hurt that messages fit together, but John is proclaiming the One who is coming who is more powerful than he is—who is coming after him…He’s talking about his cousin, Jesus…The baby that was born, whose birth we celebrate on Christmas…The baby who we are preparing for in this season of Advent. The baby who would grow into the man we recognize as the Messiah…
The One who challenged the structures, who brought about reconciliation, who called people out of their comfort zones to work for God…The One who still calls to us today to bring about reconciliation, to get out of our comfort zones to work for God…We have all been called to follow this One…This One who is called Jesus…Where will you put yourself aside? Where will you work for reconciliation? How are you preparing for the celebration of Christmas? Beyond the ribbons and bows and cookies and trees, prepare your hearts for Advent; join in the work of God happening…
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Is it wrong..
Guess what?? Starbucks has just opened in Ottawa!!! That's right! There is now a starbucks 30 minutes from me as opposed to an hour! Is it wrong that I'm so excited about that? Well, I don't really care because I am! It makes me feel a little bit closer to city life...A little bit...I'm not planning on making a trip into Ottawa everyday for coffee, but it's nice to know that it's not all that far anymore and if I need to, I can! And I know, I'm one to harp about buying locally and supporting local businesses...But, I asked one of the local coffee shops in Ottawa if they serve fair trade coffee and they looked at me like I had 3 heads, so I decided to support Starbucks who does serve fair trade coffee!
Life has been so crazy...And now that it's December life just gets all that much crazier! There have been a lot of ups and downs in the past month and in some ways I'm ready for my vacation to be here, but I also don't want to miss the Advent & Christmas season. But, I'm tired....
I have so many things that are running through my head right now because of things that have been going on and stresses and frustrations...But I haven't had time to process what it all means. Maybe when I go on vacation I'll be able to do that...Or maybe I'll just shut everything off and relax...For right now I'm going to shut down and go to bed!
Life has been so crazy...And now that it's December life just gets all that much crazier! There have been a lot of ups and downs in the past month and in some ways I'm ready for my vacation to be here, but I also don't want to miss the Advent & Christmas season. But, I'm tired....
I have so many things that are running through my head right now because of things that have been going on and stresses and frustrations...But I haven't had time to process what it all means. Maybe when I go on vacation I'll be able to do that...Or maybe I'll just shut everything off and relax...For right now I'm going to shut down and go to bed!
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