The Party of the Lamb | |||
What if there were no "Left"or no "Right" and we all followed the Lamb? Exploring justice and politics from a Progressive Christian viewpoint | |||
http://www.partyofthelamb.info/
Sunday, September 28, 2008
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Saturday, September 27, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
The Problem with this world and it's solution
I am going to attempt to put into words what I came to understand and be aware of in my devotion time this morning. With all that is going on in our world today,
(economic crisis, oil prices, global warming, disease, poverty, war...etc,)there is one root cause.
Humankind seem to live, lives where we can become disconnected, distracted and unaware of what is real. This is a kind of insanity or unconsciousness. We are able to disconnect from fellow human beings and see them as something different and less than ourselves. We can label them as sinful, evil, or enemies and therefore we justify our own actions whether it is hate, violence or simple indifference.
Just recently the news reported how a homeless man was left unattended in an Emergency Room for over 36 hours until it was discovered he had died.What had made him invisible? What made him of less value and worth than all the other people in need of care. Now I am not writing this to judge or condemn anyone. But simply to say, what makes this possible.
I also watched "Hotel Rwanda" recently and one cannot help but ask how can we treat each other this way? Whether we talk about those who did the killing or the world that looked away.
I look at what is going on around the world and yet here in the USA the top issue is our economy. A country that is the wealthiest country in the world and if we only put a small percentage of what we put into our defense budget into changing world poverty we could solve a lot of the world's problems.
How is it instead we drive our SUV's, shop at the mall, go see the latest movies and think life is grand if we could only get oil prices down and solve Wall Street's problems. The problem is not the Bush Administration, Republicans or even greed, these are only symptoms of the problems.
The problem is most human beings are unconscious, unaware and distracted. We allow ourselves to be detached from real life, people and needs. However there is a moving, a stirring of the waters. I call it a move of God's spirit, a wind of change blowing. God is waking people up to understand that we are part of the solution. It begins with us becoming aware, and then sharing this awareness. Living and growing from this awareness.
Maybe this sounds too simple, however I have found that unlearning unconscious living and living the simple life of awareness is a daily denying of the old self ( how you once saw yourself) and allowing this awareness to redefine you and lift you to a new way of living. It's a simple principle but is not an easy practice at first. However it can will change you life, community and world!
We are part of one another,and we can be part of the solution for one another as well.
(economic crisis, oil prices, global warming, disease, poverty, war...etc,)there is one root cause.
Humankind seem to live, lives where we can become disconnected, distracted and unaware of what is real. This is a kind of insanity or unconsciousness. We are able to disconnect from fellow human beings and see them as something different and less than ourselves. We can label them as sinful, evil, or enemies and therefore we justify our own actions whether it is hate, violence or simple indifference.
Just recently the news reported how a homeless man was left unattended in an Emergency Room for over 36 hours until it was discovered he had died.What had made him invisible? What made him of less value and worth than all the other people in need of care. Now I am not writing this to judge or condemn anyone. But simply to say, what makes this possible.
I also watched "Hotel Rwanda" recently and one cannot help but ask how can we treat each other this way? Whether we talk about those who did the killing or the world that looked away.
I look at what is going on around the world and yet here in the USA the top issue is our economy. A country that is the wealthiest country in the world and if we only put a small percentage of what we put into our defense budget into changing world poverty we could solve a lot of the world's problems.
How is it instead we drive our SUV's, shop at the mall, go see the latest movies and think life is grand if we could only get oil prices down and solve Wall Street's problems. The problem is not the Bush Administration, Republicans or even greed, these are only symptoms of the problems.
The problem is most human beings are unconscious, unaware and distracted. We allow ourselves to be detached from real life, people and needs. However there is a moving, a stirring of the waters. I call it a move of God's spirit, a wind of change blowing. God is waking people up to understand that we are part of the solution. It begins with us becoming aware, and then sharing this awareness. Living and growing from this awareness.
Maybe this sounds too simple, however I have found that unlearning unconscious living and living the simple life of awareness is a daily denying of the old self ( how you once saw yourself) and allowing this awareness to redefine you and lift you to a new way of living. It's a simple principle but is not an easy practice at first. However it can will change you life, community and world!
We are part of one another,and we can be part of the solution for one another as well.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Powerful words
I recently came across the words of Marianne Williamson, from her spiritually based book entitled, A Return to Love is this: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light and not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘who I am to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, and fabulous.’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn’t serve the world. There’s nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we’re liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
How to engage in politics without losing your soul"
I found this and felt it very worthy of reposting!
"How to engage in politics without losing your soul"
With all the uproar from all sides of the political spectrum regarding Sen. Obama's faith and now Gov Palin's I thought I'd offer this article posted on SmartChristian.com. This entry was posted March 31, 2008
HOW TO ENGAGE IN POLITICS WITHOUT LOSING YOUR SOUL
I (author) post this based on Jesus' statement found in Mark 8:36, "What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?" The reason I chose this convicting passage is because over the years I have watched many Christians who became zealously active in partisan politics actually "lose their souls."
Below I offer 10 bibilical guidelines on how Christians can engage in politics without "losing their soul."
1. Christians must never allow themselves to equate the biblical Kingdom of God with any human political party or nation (John 18:36, Isaiah 9:7, Matthew 6:33, Philipians 3:20, Revelation 11:15). As Christians we must be diligent in maintaining and preserving the distinctiveness between the Kingdom of God and the kingdom of the world. We must never fuse the two. The great "utopian illusion" that easily enters our politics is that peace, harmony, and prosperity for all can be brought about in the world through human political means.
2. Christians must never allow ourselves to elevate specific politician to messianic or savior status (1 Peter 3:15). In our entertainment and celebrity culture, it is becoming more common for people to infuse politicians with almost messianic or savior status. In other words, people begin to beleive a politician's extraordinary promises and that they can actually single-handedly produce almost supernatural social results. As Christians, we have one Lord, and we must resist all attempts to exalt any human politician to unreal heights.
3. Christians must not just vote, but more importantly, we must pray for our government and the leaders of all political parties (Matthew 5:44, 1 Timothy 2: 1-2). In our polarized society, many Christians are tempted to bless the politician or party they support, and curse the other one they don't. How unbiblical! The Bible is clear, we are to pray for all political and government leaders, even our political enemies.
4. Christians must always remember that our ultimate security is in Christ and the unshakeable kingdom of God, mo matter what presidential candidate or party wins (Hebrews 12:26-29). One of the dangers that many Christians seem to fall into is that we begin to elevate the outcome of presidential elections to an apocalyptic status. In other words, if our presidential candidate or party does not win, we begin to see it as the end of the world. This is what I call the "Y2K Complex". When we allow ourselves to understand politics in apocalyptic terms, we at the same time express unbelief in the sovereignty and Lordship of God over his creation and human history. Yes, elections have real consequences for people, but in the larger scheme of history, don't worry, no matter who becomes our president, God is in control and will take care of things.
5. Christians must never allow ourselves to bring divisiveness and polarization of political parties into church, the family of God (Romans 16:17, 1 Corinthians 1: 11-12). We cannot allow partisan politics to divide the body of Christ. Individual Christians have freedom of conscience before God and the bible, and as a result, we must accept the fact that there will be diversity of political opinions in church. We must never allow diverse political perspectives to cause conflict and divisions in church.
6. Christians must never allow ourselves to demonize or dehumanize another person - no matter what politician it is, because every single human was created in the image of God (Colossians 3:8, Matthew 7:1, James 4:12). Christians must not engage in demeaning and judging other people, no matter whether we agree with them politically or not.
7. Christians must never engage in angry confrontational argumments, instead of being open to learn through civil debate and dialogue (James 1:20, Phillipians 2:14-16, 2 Timothy 2:14). When we interact with other people with hard-core dogmatic positions, we demonstrate an ugly pride that demeans the character of Christ. As Christians we must humble ourselves, understand that as humans we are limited in our understanding, and that we all can learn more about the very complex issues that face our nation. Christians must always engage in politics through a path of reason and civility.
8. Christians must never allow ourselves to become intertwined so closely with one political party that we forfeit our independent identity as followers of Christ. When we do, we lose the prophetic voice to speak and clarify biblical truths to all politicians and political parties (1 Timothy 3:15, Ephesians 4:15, Romans 3:4)
9. Christians must never allow ourselves to engage in partisan politics by supporting diviseness between races, between male and female, between rich and poor, and between young and old (Matthew 5:9, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Electoral politics is all about dividing society into specific voting blocks. And as a result, politics usually divides our society, instead of uniting it. Christians must always function as peacemakers and as reconcilers in the public square, and resist every temptation to join the political tactics of dividing people for political gain.
10. Christians must not allow ourselves to fall into the trap of simply cursing the darkness through negativity, instead of constructively engaging our world as preserving salt and illuminating the light (Matthew 5:13-16). The cultural and missional mandate of kingdom Christians requires us to stop cursing the darkness and start lighting more candles that reflect God's truth, compassion, and love.
This was originally posted Monday, March 31st, 2008 on SmartChristian.com. I offer it for reflection by all. I found this very grounding.
Rich
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Asking Questions?
For some faith and religion is about absolutes. However a healthy faith is one where we admit we don't have all the answers. Otherwise why would we need faith. We should explore why we believe what we believe.
If we fear questions then maybe our faith is too fragile and in need of questions. Human nature likes things neatly packaged and black and white. Perhaps this is why many Christians allow others to think for them. However this is very unhealthy and is one reason I believe religion has become non-relevant to so many people.
Recently I went with my Dad to the doctor. After he had a procedure done, we both had questions for the doctor. It is a healthy thing to do. Second opinions and exploring options are very important when it comes to physical health. How much more are questions, exploring options important to spiritual health.
If we fear questions then maybe our faith is too fragile and in need of questions. Human nature likes things neatly packaged and black and white. Perhaps this is why many Christians allow others to think for them. However this is very unhealthy and is one reason I believe religion has become non-relevant to so many people.
Recently I went with my Dad to the doctor. After he had a procedure done, we both had questions for the doctor. It is a healthy thing to do. Second opinions and exploring options are very important when it comes to physical health. How much more are questions, exploring options important to spiritual health.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Us Vs.Them ( the others)
Whether we like it or not many of us have been guilty of an "us vs. them" attitude at one time or another. Today I had to talk with my son about calling his sister a "nerd". I asked him what is a nerd? I continued asking him to define his descriptions until we finally got to the point that we attack people who are different to us. Now his was more "sibling bickering" but many times it is not.
History is full of evil actions being carried out on people who are different or are the "other". In fact most crimes against GLBT people is born out of fear of either are different "other' status or there are also cases where the perpetrator is not so different and the GLBT victim becomes the target of the perpetrator's self-hate.
I have also experienced watching people change the way they look at GLBT people simply because they actually got to know some. When an "other" becomes a name and a face, it changes everything. That is why for a soldier to do their job the leadership has to portray the enemy as evil and a threat. In fact the present administration has used this "evil" label to justify a lot of their incompetence.
However we GLBT people can also be guilty of the "Other" mindset. Christ calls us to rise above this kind of mindset and to operate from the mindset of Christ. He sees all people as a "we", "us" and part of the family of God.
Lord,
Help me to see those who are different from me as your children and worthy of my love, prayers, and reaching out to. Deliver me from the desire to demonize that which is different.
Amen
History is full of evil actions being carried out on people who are different or are the "other". In fact most crimes against GLBT people is born out of fear of either are different "other' status or there are also cases where the perpetrator is not so different and the GLBT victim becomes the target of the perpetrator's self-hate.
I have also experienced watching people change the way they look at GLBT people simply because they actually got to know some. When an "other" becomes a name and a face, it changes everything. That is why for a soldier to do their job the leadership has to portray the enemy as evil and a threat. In fact the present administration has used this "evil" label to justify a lot of their incompetence.
However we GLBT people can also be guilty of the "Other" mindset. Christ calls us to rise above this kind of mindset and to operate from the mindset of Christ. He sees all people as a "we", "us" and part of the family of God.
Lord,
Help me to see those who are different from me as your children and worthy of my love, prayers, and reaching out to. Deliver me from the desire to demonize that which is different.
Amen
Sunday, September 21, 2008
Pray for our enemies (opponents)
This morning my Pastor led us to pray for all of the candidates who are running for President. As a GLBT person it is hard to look at those who are in cahoots (okeechobee term) with those who are so against us. However Jesus commanded us to pray for our enemies or opponents. With the hopes that God would grant them repentance (change of mind). Imagine what would happen if this was to happen.
However this command is a hard one to swallow and obey. But he never said being a disciple would be easy, and besides who are we to judge....that is what they are guilty of and if we are going to represent God we must be different.
Ok you can go ahead and say Amen or ouch!
However this command is a hard one to swallow and obey. But he never said being a disciple would be easy, and besides who are we to judge....that is what they are guilty of and if we are going to represent God we must be different.
Ok you can go ahead and say Amen or ouch!
Saturday, September 20, 2008
A New and Radical Way of Living.....
Jesus preached that a new Kingdom had come and that people need to change they way they lived and thought to be a part of this new kingdom.....This kingdom of God was a way of life where we come under the rule or influence of God and this Way would transform this world.......
New Radical Kingdom Principles:
*Don't get revenge when wronged, but seek reconciliations.
* Don't repay violence with violence, but seek creative and transforming nonviolent alternatives.
* Don't focus on external conformity to moral codes, but on internal transformation in love.
* Don't love insiders and hate outsiders, but welcome outsiders into a new "us" a new "we", a new humanity that celebrates diversity in the context of love for all, justice for all, and mutual respect for all.
*Don't have anxiety about money or security or pleasure at the center of your life, but trust yourself to the care of God.
* Don't live for wealth, but for the living God who loves all people, including your enemies.
*Don't hate your enemies or competitors, but love them and do to them as you wish them to do to you.
(borrowed from Brian McLaren's book "Everything Must Change" Page 99, 100)
New Radical Kingdom Principles:
*Don't get revenge when wronged, but seek reconciliations.
* Don't repay violence with violence, but seek creative and transforming nonviolent alternatives.
* Don't focus on external conformity to moral codes, but on internal transformation in love.
* Don't love insiders and hate outsiders, but welcome outsiders into a new "us" a new "we", a new humanity that celebrates diversity in the context of love for all, justice for all, and mutual respect for all.
*Don't have anxiety about money or security or pleasure at the center of your life, but trust yourself to the care of God.
* Don't live for wealth, but for the living God who loves all people, including your enemies.
*Don't hate your enemies or competitors, but love them and do to them as you wish them to do to you.
(borrowed from Brian McLaren's book "Everything Must Change" Page 99, 100)
Friday, September 19, 2008
Two Faced...Double Identitiy
This is an very direct description of what it means to be hypocritical. Jesus tells us in the sermon on the mount in Matthew 5 that Blessed are the "pure in heart" for they shall see God. This purity is about singleness of purpose and focus. So many people live a dual life or double life. Sometimes in response to this society GLBT people have tried to do this, we call it living in the closet. Which simply means hiding parts of our life from others. This takes a lot of energy and causes a lot of personal pain and takes a toll on our self-worth. This is not the only way that we can live a dual existence. This world has a way of dividing us and causing us to try to be different things to different people. We take on the labels and roles that others expect and wish to define us with.
However, authentic living brings liberty and freedom to express and reach our god-given potential. Authentic living however is not only involved in coming out but it also means living from the truth we embrace.It is us defining and creating our life from our truth, It is being a good steward with the life God has given us.
Whenever we find ourself changing for others or trying to become what others expect us to be or if we become over identified with labels we need to step back and take an inventory. Are we wearing a mask? Are we living a dual or multifaceted life. Are we living out our truth as God has revealed it to us. Are we trying to live like the world (being part of the problem) and trying to be part of the solution at the same time?
Jesus said you cannot serve two masters....you can't live two lives at the same time. To enjoy the Kingdom life we must be single minded in purpose and vision, we must live out our faith. This is a call of radical living.
What do I mean? Am I talking about some kind of legalistic religious life that is preached by some hyper-religious types. NO!!!!
I am talking about radical living that seeks to love the "least of these" that Jesus talked about.
I am talking about living a life that impacts those we come in contact with.
I am talking about giving voice and action to justice.
I am talking about no longer sitting back and being a part of the status quo.
I am talking about a people who looks at the real needs of those around us and takes action.
I am talking about making a real difference in this world.
Look around who needs love, who needs help. What can we do...lets do it. This is why we are here. This is our purpose. We can set things right, one person at a time.
It begins with us......getting honest with God and ourselves about who we are and who we want to be.
However, authentic living brings liberty and freedom to express and reach our god-given potential. Authentic living however is not only involved in coming out but it also means living from the truth we embrace.It is us defining and creating our life from our truth, It is being a good steward with the life God has given us.
Whenever we find ourself changing for others or trying to become what others expect us to be or if we become over identified with labels we need to step back and take an inventory. Are we wearing a mask? Are we living a dual or multifaceted life. Are we living out our truth as God has revealed it to us. Are we trying to live like the world (being part of the problem) and trying to be part of the solution at the same time?
Jesus said you cannot serve two masters....you can't live two lives at the same time. To enjoy the Kingdom life we must be single minded in purpose and vision, we must live out our faith. This is a call of radical living.
What do I mean? Am I talking about some kind of legalistic religious life that is preached by some hyper-religious types. NO!!!!
I am talking about radical living that seeks to love the "least of these" that Jesus talked about.
I am talking about living a life that impacts those we come in contact with.
I am talking about giving voice and action to justice.
I am talking about no longer sitting back and being a part of the status quo.
I am talking about a people who looks at the real needs of those around us and takes action.
I am talking about making a real difference in this world.
Look around who needs love, who needs help. What can we do...lets do it. This is why we are here. This is our purpose. We can set things right, one person at a time.
It begins with us......getting honest with God and ourselves about who we are and who we want to be.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Change
In this political season we hear a lot about "change". What is change? Where does it come from?
Change- to alter, transform or to give a different position, course, or direction to.
I don't think anyone would argue that we need change in a lot of arenas. The economy is is in crisis, poverty is out of control, unjust wars and denial of basic human rights denied many in this world...so what do we do?
Do we blame it on the sinfulness and lack of moralitiy in our world today and call for global repentance?
Do we call for or elect for some national personality who would have all the answers?
Do we just wait for the return of Christ to snatch us out of this chaotic world and enable us to escape it's appointment with Destiny?
OR.....
Do we face the reality of the condition of this world with the truth of who we are called to be in the Kingdom of God and become the change this world needs?
How?
By applying the principles of Jesus:
*recognize our need as a spiritual one first
*Mourn (moved) by the need in the world
*non violent, submissive, humble
*seek justice ( seek things to be set right)
*motivated by compassion
*focus and singleness of purpose (no personal motives or agenda)
Living with these attitudes or approaches bring about the rule (influence) of God into this world. This is real change. It is not forceful and many times is unnoticed. However it's results will not be.
Change- to alter, transform or to give a different position, course, or direction to.
I don't think anyone would argue that we need change in a lot of arenas. The economy is is in crisis, poverty is out of control, unjust wars and denial of basic human rights denied many in this world...so what do we do?
Do we blame it on the sinfulness and lack of moralitiy in our world today and call for global repentance?
Do we call for or elect for some national personality who would have all the answers?
Do we just wait for the return of Christ to snatch us out of this chaotic world and enable us to escape it's appointment with Destiny?
OR.....
Do we face the reality of the condition of this world with the truth of who we are called to be in the Kingdom of God and become the change this world needs?
How?
By applying the principles of Jesus:
*recognize our need as a spiritual one first
*Mourn (moved) by the need in the world
*non violent, submissive, humble
*seek justice ( seek things to be set right)
*motivated by compassion
*focus and singleness of purpose (no personal motives or agenda)
Living with these attitudes or approaches bring about the rule (influence) of God into this world. This is real change. It is not forceful and many times is unnoticed. However it's results will not be.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
Having it all figured out
There was a time in my life where I thought I had it all figured out. My theology was a neat black and white package where God, played by the rules and everything could be explained. Anything outside of this I blamed on the devil.
We Christians have done that for a long time. We blame the devil for what is wrong in the world and we wait for Jesus to make everything right. Last night I heard a rabbi tell a story about how a little boy asked God why didn't he do something about all the evil and what is wrong in the world. God said, "I have, I sent you." We have to see that we are his hands in this world.
That is why we, need faith. Because we don't have things figured out. We move forward with faith in an omnipotent God and we know he will supply all that we need to live out our faith. We also impact our world with this faith. We bring Justice, grow in relationship with God and each other.
So let me go on record, I do not have hardly anything figured out. I have also come to understand that is is not my job to judge. I have resigned from this position. I can't say who is not going to heaven, and who is right. But I can say my faith is in God and he is faithful and as I walk with him I have a peace and joy that I can only describe as Salvation from an insane and chaotic world. This is a little bit of heaven.
We Christians have done that for a long time. We blame the devil for what is wrong in the world and we wait for Jesus to make everything right. Last night I heard a rabbi tell a story about how a little boy asked God why didn't he do something about all the evil and what is wrong in the world. God said, "I have, I sent you." We have to see that we are his hands in this world.
That is why we, need faith. Because we don't have things figured out. We move forward with faith in an omnipotent God and we know he will supply all that we need to live out our faith. We also impact our world with this faith. We bring Justice, grow in relationship with God and each other.
So let me go on record, I do not have hardly anything figured out. I have also come to understand that is is not my job to judge. I have resigned from this position. I can't say who is not going to heaven, and who is right. But I can say my faith is in God and he is faithful and as I walk with him I have a peace and joy that I can only describe as Salvation from an insane and chaotic world. This is a little bit of heaven.
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Who is the Lost?
Jesus came to seek the lost. But who is the lost? Many would say it is the sinners or those who don't know or have relationship with God. Although I see their point and that definitely applies I think that view is too narrow. Once again we see the church's use of an us/them mentality.
What does it mean to be lost? If you don't know where you are or how to get where you need to be you are lost. There are many people who are lost. They have lost purpose, direction or their identity. Jesus is seeking everybody who is lost. I have found myself many times where I have felt disconnected, adrift and just plain lost. I still had faith in God but I just didn't know what to do, where to go. For all intent and purposes I was lost. Jesus is looking for just this kind of people. He desires to give our lives purpose, direction and a real connection to God, ourselves and others.
Faith is not meant to be an individualistic journey but one that is a part of a greater community. If you are or feel lost...I have good news for you....the search party is out looking for you....listen closely and you will hear the voice of Jesus the leader of this party calling out your name...he is seeking you.....call to him and he will answer.
Monday, September 15, 2008
Is your life normal?
Today in his sermon my pastor preached a message about what normal looks like. He talked about how many times life does not go like we plan. Sometimes we have storms in our lives. He talked about how normal is not a straight line of smooth sailing perfectly in line with our plans but instead it is a jagged line of ups and downs, peaks and crests. In fact much like a heart monitor....a normal heart beat is up and down because you definitely don't want a straight line.
As I meditated on what he said, I thought about all the ups and downs of my own life's journey. I also realized that the "roller coaster ride" of life, the ups and the downs like the heart monitor show us we are alive. It also makes us into who we are....and makes us stronger. So we should thank God if our life resembles the heart monitor......Because we are alive and yes our life is "Normal".
As I meditated on what he said, I thought about all the ups and downs of my own life's journey. I also realized that the "roller coaster ride" of life, the ups and the downs like the heart monitor show us we are alive. It also makes us into who we are....and makes us stronger. So we should thank God if our life resembles the heart monitor......Because we are alive and yes our life is "Normal".
Sunday, September 14, 2008
Love is action
The opposite of love is not hate but indifference.
-Elie Wiesel
Love is action......it is doing what we can, when we can and where we can.
Lord,
Help us to stay sensitive to the needs of those around us.
May we understand we are you in this world. May we
represent you well.
Amen
-Elie Wiesel
Love is action......it is doing what we can, when we can and where we can.
Lord,
Help us to stay sensitive to the needs of those around us.
May we understand we are you in this world. May we
represent you well.
Amen
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Values
Today I have been working with my church in workshops to look at our core values and our mission. It has been a very good exercise. I am finding a definite shift in followers of Christ of late or maybe I am just becoming aware myself. But the shift and focus on social justice seems to be the buzz of late.
As I looked at MCC's core values I found myself in full agreement with what they stated. I share these values and my own ministry I hope can help express these values as well.
As I looked at MCC's core values I found myself in full agreement with what they stated. I share these values and my own ministry I hope can help express these values as well.
MCC Core Values
Inclusion
Love is our greatest moral value and resisting exclusion is a primary focus of our ministry. We want to continue to be the conduits of a faith where everyone is included in thefamily of God, and where all parts of our being are welcomed at God’s table.
Community
Offering a safe and open community for people to worship, learn and grow in their faith is our deep desire. We are committed to equipping ourselves and each other to do the work that God has called us to do in the world.
Spiritual Transformation
Providing a message of liberation from the oppressive religious environment of our day or to those experiencing God for the first time is what guides our ministry. We believe that when people are invited to experience God through the life and ministry of Christ, lives will be transformed.
Social Action
Working to talk less and do more, we are committed to resisting the structures that oppress people and standing with to those who suffer under the weight of oppressive systems, being guided always by our commitment to Global Human Rights.
If you do not have a church, I recommend you find an MCC church near you...you can use this website to find one:
http://www.mccchurch.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Find_an_MCC
Friday, September 12, 2008
Is Judgment a bad word for GLBT people?
This is a word or idea that has caused much suffering to GLBT people. This word has been misused and used to injure to many times. However I recently read a quote by Brian McLaren that is fitting whenever things are misused:
" the best antidote to misuse is not disuse is proper use."
Recently I was doing a study on judgment because I have had a time reconciling the nature of God with what many preach about his use of judgment. We tend to view judgment in a negative light. Maybe as GLBT people you have been told in no uncertain terms , nevertheless unloving way that as a gay person you will receive God's judgment and go to Hell! However judgment is not about punishment of gays, or a negative thing, but lets look at it with a fresh perspective.
Judgment is about justice. Justice is about fairness and setting things right, according to God's definition not the church or the Christian Right. Judgment is a good thing when properly understood.
It means justice and truth coming into our world. For example it means people coming to understand that homosexuality is not a choice or sin but rather a characteristic of people like eye color, etc. What would happen if this truth became understood across the world. This would put an end to hate and prejudice toward GLBT people.That is a definition of Justice.
God judges discrimination and hatred towards GLBT people as unjust, but his desire is to bring the guilty into truth by changing their mindset from prejudice to understanding and acceptance.
Judgment therefore is not about Hell. Hell is what we have with a lack of judgment. But those who repent "change their minds, see the truth" will be saved or delivered from their error and sin against others which will change their lives.
God's judgment is meant to stop oppression, and deception. The more severe understanding of God's judgment are for those who persist in evil, oppression, hatred and refuse to turn from their ways to the truth. Not Truth as man interprets it but as God has defined it in Christ and his teachings.
Let me be clear this severe judgment is not reserved for GBLT people because they are gay but it will be reserved for those who refuse to love all people and who cause damage to people's faith because of their own personal judgment or doctrine. I have often said that " God is not so concerned with who I love but he takes issue with who I hate.
God does bring "conviction" through His Holy Spirit to parts of our lives we may be decieved about. He does this to save us a lot of trouble and so we can find the truth and live the kind of Life that Christ has called us to.
"So Often the danger or evil we face is self-created, self-inflicted, self-sabotaging- and we keep doing it because we are self-deluded and self-deceived through denial. By judging our evil, by naming it for what it is, by penetrating our denial and self-delusion, God begins saving us". Brain McLaren
God is Love and is committed to us, which as any good parent includes correction and guidance. But he will never condemn us for who we are but will correct us for what we do. If we use or hurt people God will speak to that because he is just. He is no respecter of persons whether they be gay or straight. He wants us to live full lives full of his joy and peace.
Judgment + mercy = salvation
Judgment - mercy = condemnation
which leads to guilt and alienation. Many GLBT people have believed the lies of false teachers and so have misjudged God and therefore are living alienated from God. They falsely believe that God is against them and that they cannot experience the Love, Peace and joy of relationship with him.
However the only ones who are against us are those who preach such hate-filled "bad news" gospels that misrepresent God. It is my mission to proclaim that God desires to bring All people into relationship with himself. The fullest Life, Joy and Peace that salvation brings is for all!!!!!!
" the best antidote to misuse is not disuse is proper use."
Recently I was doing a study on judgment because I have had a time reconciling the nature of God with what many preach about his use of judgment. We tend to view judgment in a negative light. Maybe as GLBT people you have been told in no uncertain terms , nevertheless unloving way that as a gay person you will receive God's judgment and go to Hell! However judgment is not about punishment of gays, or a negative thing, but lets look at it with a fresh perspective.
Judgment is about justice. Justice is about fairness and setting things right, according to God's definition not the church or the Christian Right. Judgment is a good thing when properly understood.
It means justice and truth coming into our world. For example it means people coming to understand that homosexuality is not a choice or sin but rather a characteristic of people like eye color, etc. What would happen if this truth became understood across the world. This would put an end to hate and prejudice toward GLBT people.That is a definition of Justice.
God judges discrimination and hatred towards GLBT people as unjust, but his desire is to bring the guilty into truth by changing their mindset from prejudice to understanding and acceptance.
Judgment therefore is not about Hell. Hell is what we have with a lack of judgment. But those who repent "change their minds, see the truth" will be saved or delivered from their error and sin against others which will change their lives.
God's judgment is meant to stop oppression, and deception. The more severe understanding of God's judgment are for those who persist in evil, oppression, hatred and refuse to turn from their ways to the truth. Not Truth as man interprets it but as God has defined it in Christ and his teachings.
Let me be clear this severe judgment is not reserved for GBLT people because they are gay but it will be reserved for those who refuse to love all people and who cause damage to people's faith because of their own personal judgment or doctrine. I have often said that " God is not so concerned with who I love but he takes issue with who I hate.
God does bring "conviction" through His Holy Spirit to parts of our lives we may be decieved about. He does this to save us a lot of trouble and so we can find the truth and live the kind of Life that Christ has called us to.
"So Often the danger or evil we face is self-created, self-inflicted, self-sabotaging- and we keep doing it because we are self-deluded and self-deceived through denial. By judging our evil, by naming it for what it is, by penetrating our denial and self-delusion, God begins saving us". Brain McLaren
God is Love and is committed to us, which as any good parent includes correction and guidance. But he will never condemn us for who we are but will correct us for what we do. If we use or hurt people God will speak to that because he is just. He is no respecter of persons whether they be gay or straight. He wants us to live full lives full of his joy and peace.
Judgment + mercy = salvation
Judgment - mercy = condemnation
which leads to guilt and alienation. Many GLBT people have believed the lies of false teachers and so have misjudged God and therefore are living alienated from God. They falsely believe that God is against them and that they cannot experience the Love, Peace and joy of relationship with him.
However the only ones who are against us are those who preach such hate-filled "bad news" gospels that misrepresent God. It is my mission to proclaim that God desires to bring All people into relationship with himself. The fullest Life, Joy and Peace that salvation brings is for all!!!!!!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Relections back to 9/11
I realize this is my third post today but after reading a post on Jim Wallis' website I wanted to share his thoughts as well. I could not put it any better:
Seven years ago this morning, airplanes were flown into the World Trade Center towers, the Pentagon, and a field in rural Pennsylvania. The next day I joined with a few others to draft the following statement. In a few weeks, more than 4,000 of America's religious leaders of all faiths had signed it and it was printed as an ad in The New York Times.
Seven years ago this morning, airplanes were flown into the World Trade Center towers, the Pentagon, and a field in rural Pennsylvania. The next day I joined with a few others to draft the following statement. In a few weeks, more than 4,000 of America's religious leaders of all faiths had signed it and it was printed as an ad in The New York Times.
Seven years later, as we remember that day, it is appropriate to reflect on this statement and to wonder how the world would be different if its counsel had been heeded.
We demanded "that those responsible for these utterly evil acts be found and brought to justice. Those culpable must not escape accountability." Yet after seven years of war in Afghanistan, we are still engaged against a resurgent Taliban and al Qaeda, and Osama bin Laden has still not been found. Then, 9/11 was used as a rationale to invade and occupy Iraq, a conflict that has now taken the lives of more than 4,000 American troops and countless Iraqis. Rather than "the vision of community, tolerance, compassion, justice, and the sacredness of human life, which lies at the heart of all our religious traditions," we have seen the erosion of our civil liberties, torture at Abu Ghraib and Guantanamo, and indefinite detentions without trial.
Today on this anniversary, let us pause to remember those who died, to reflect on what has happened since, and once again, "Let us rededicate ourselves to global peace, human dignity, and the eradication of the injustice that breeds rage and vengeance." We offered a different way to deny the terrorists their victory, which, I believe, could still be followed. It's not too late to change our course. Please read and reflect upon the original statement.
Deny Them Their Victory: A Religious Response to Terrorism
We, American religious leaders, share the broken hearts of our fellow citizens. The worst terrorist attack in history that assaulted New York City, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania has been felt in every American community. Each life lost was of unique and sacred value in the eyes of God, and the connections Americans feel to those lives run very deep. In the face of such a cruel catastrophe, it is a time to look to God and to each other for the strength we need and the response we will make. We must dig deep to the roots of our faith for sustenance, solace and wisdom.
First, we must find a word of consolation for the untold pain and suffering of our people. Our congregations will offer their practical and pastoral resources to bind up the wounds of the nation. We can become safe places to weep and secure places to begin rebuilding our shattered lives and communities. Our houses of worship should become public arenas for common prayer, community discussion, eventual healing, and forgiveness.
Second, we offer a word of sober restraint as our nation discerns what its response will be. We share the deep anger toward those who so callously and massively destroy innocent lives, no matter what the grievances or injustices invoked. In the name of God, we too demand that those responsible for these utterly evil acts be found and brought to justice. Those culpable must not escape accountability. But we must not, out of anger and vengeance, indiscriminately retaliate in ways that bring on even more loss of innocent life. We pray that President Bush and members of Congress will seek the wisdom of God as they decide upon the appropriate response.
Third, we face deep and profound questions of what this attack on America will do to us as a nation. The terrorists have offered us a stark view of the world they would create, where the remedy to every human grievance and injustice is a resort to the random and cowardly violence of revenge -- even against the most innocent. Having taken thousands of our lives, attacked our national symbols, forced our political leaders to flee their chambers of governance, disrupted our work and families, and struck fear into the hearts of our children, the terrorists must feel victorious.
But we can deny them their victory by refusing to submit to a world created in their image. Terrorism inflicts not only death and destruction but also emotional oppression to further its aims. We must not allow this terror to drive us away from being the people God has called us to be. We assert the vision of community, tolerance, compassion, justice, and the sacredness of human life, which lies at the heart of all our religious traditions. America must be a safe place for all our citizens in all their diversity. It is especially important that our citizens who share national origins, ethnicity, or religion with whoever attacked us are, themselves, protected among us.
Our American illusion of invulnerability has been shattered. From now on, we will look at the world in a different way, and this attack on our life as a nation will become a test of our national character. Let us make the right choices in this crisis -- to pray, act, and unite against the bitter fruits of division, hatred and violence. Let us rededicate ourselves to global peace, human dignity, and the eradication of the injustice that breeds rage and vengeance.
As we gather in our houses of worship, let us begin a process of seeking the healing and grace of God.
To read more from Jim Wallis go to his blog at :http://blog.beliefnet.com/godspolitics
What matters most?
Seven years ago, on the morning September 11, 2001 life in America was shaken. I remember watching in disbelief as the two towers fell. I also remember the change of focus that happened in America. We became a community. We focused on what was really important.
Now since then a lot has happened and a lot has been forgotten. Time can do that. In this time of war, political divisiveness, we need to remember what matters most. Remember to tell those we are close to that we Love them. We need to show those around us that we care. We need to reach out and unite around the things we can agree on and show tolerance for those we disagree with. We need to pray for those who are our enemies.
We are not called to bring war but rather peace......Do Justice. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly with God.
So today as we remember 9/11 lets remember the lessons of 9/11as well:
*People are important"
*Faith is important"
*Heroes are ordinary people showing love through sacrifice"
*that we need one another"
God has made the human spirit with the ability to rise above anything and shine forth and reveal the divine image!
Now since then a lot has happened and a lot has been forgotten. Time can do that. In this time of war, political divisiveness, we need to remember what matters most. Remember to tell those we are close to that we Love them. We need to show those around us that we care. We need to reach out and unite around the things we can agree on and show tolerance for those we disagree with. We need to pray for those who are our enemies.
We are not called to bring war but rather peace......Do Justice. Love Mercy. Walk Humbly with God.
So today as we remember 9/11 lets remember the lessons of 9/11as well:
*People are important"
*Faith is important"
*Heroes are ordinary people showing love through sacrifice"
*that we need one another"
God has made the human spirit with the ability to rise above anything and shine forth and reveal the divine image!
Lord,
We come before you today and ask for your comfort and peace to those that lost so much today. We remember those who have been put in harms way as they represent this country in the service. May your Love and Peace rest upon each one who reads this and May we seek your kingdom that is the only true way to peace and victory over evil.
Amen
We come before you today and ask for your comfort and peace to those that lost so much today. We remember those who have been put in harms way as they represent this country in the service. May your Love and Peace rest upon each one who reads this and May we seek your kingdom that is the only true way to peace and victory over evil.
Amen
Pro-life?
Jesus said, "I have come that you might have life, and the the life you have might be the fullest life.
Many hear Jesus speak of eternal life and they think he is referring to life after death. Although this life Christ speaks of includes life after death it means a lot more than that. It begins now! This LIFE starts on the inside and begins to shine through and transforming our lives in many ways. It also flows out of us and touches the lives around us. It expresses itself in Love and propels us to reach out in demonstrations of God's love.
I know that when you read the title of this post you may have thought I was about to go into a political discussion about abortion. But I have had enough political talk for today and so I wanted to simply meditate on what happens when real life meets Real Life!
Many hear Jesus speak of eternal life and they think he is referring to life after death. Although this life Christ speaks of includes life after death it means a lot more than that. It begins now! This LIFE starts on the inside and begins to shine through and transforming our lives in many ways. It also flows out of us and touches the lives around us. It expresses itself in Love and propels us to reach out in demonstrations of God's love.
I know that when you read the title of this post you may have thought I was about to go into a political discussion about abortion. But I have had enough political talk for today and so I wanted to simply meditate on what happens when real life meets Real Life!
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Focused?
Jesus taught that narrow is the way that leads to Life.....the word narrow means focused. But I have to ask is the church really focused on the right things. So much of it's effort is spent on "How to get to heaven or stay out of Hell or about "pet issues" that don't really make much difference in the everyday lives of people. As I look at the huge poverty rates across the world, the increase of numbers of HIV deaths across the world as well I wonder if our focus is on the right things.
I think our lives can be very changed if we simply asked God, What would you have me to do?
Here are a few suggestions and questions to ask:
1.) Who are the" least of these" in my community?
2.) What do they need, what issues do they face?
3.) What can I do to help?
4.) What would Jesus do and what does he want to do through his church?
The answer to these questions may be the answer to where our focus should be.
I think our lives can be very changed if we simply asked God, What would you have me to do?
Here are a few suggestions and questions to ask:
1.) Who are the" least of these" in my community?
2.) What do they need, what issues do they face?
3.) What can I do to help?
4.) What would Jesus do and what does he want to do through his church?
The answer to these questions may be the answer to where our focus should be.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Politics of Power
Today if you turn on the Television here in the U.S. all you see are political conventions, advertisements, debates and demonstrations. The message of many of these are promises of change, a better life and way. Each party promises it's way is better. But in fact what they are really after is power. Now how much power they will have will determine how the "politics of power" plays out in the arena of power plays which we know as Washington. No matter which party gets into power there will be disappointments and unkept promises.
I am not going to attempt to tell you how to vote but I would suggest you vote your conscience and consider the real issues like justice, poverty, prejudice, which are close to God's own heart, and ask for God's wisdom.
However, I can tell you of a power you can trust and put your faith in. A power who will keep all of the promises made. A power who is not political but is pro-people of every race, nationality, sexual orientation and will not exclude anyone from his programs. This is a party of which I can support. A party that my colleagues from the Progressive Christian Alliance have called the "Party of the Lamb". This is the party of the Kingdom of God. This party is committed to bringing change to the entire world.
I am not going to attempt to tell you how to vote but I would suggest you vote your conscience and consider the real issues like justice, poverty, prejudice, which are close to God's own heart, and ask for God's wisdom.
However, I can tell you of a power you can trust and put your faith in. A power who will keep all of the promises made. A power who is not political but is pro-people of every race, nationality, sexual orientation and will not exclude anyone from his programs. This is a party of which I can support. A party that my colleagues from the Progressive Christian Alliance have called the "Party of the Lamb". This is the party of the Kingdom of God. This party is committed to bringing change to the entire world.
Monday, September 8, 2008
God in a box
As a Christian and even more so as a GLBT Christian I have had to question many ways that people define God. It is one of the most up surd ideas, that we can define God. In fact isnt this what Idolatry really is when we make God into something he isn't? Many times people make God into their image, based on their interpretations. This is why I am progressive. The longer I follow Christ in my journey of faith the bigger my God gets. I love and value scripture however God is so much bigger than scripture, Christianity, our doctrines or dogmas.
When I made peace with who I am, I realized that the difficulty in my life what not God but was rather religion. Religion attempts to define God and things spiritual. It falls very short in this task but worse yet is when people delude themselves to think they have it all figured out. Humans like to have things figured out and neatly tucked away in a box. It makes us feel secure but it also does away with our need for faith.
So am I trying to start some new Trans-faith philosphy that can bring us some new ideas and new truth. No, in fact I think Christ ( one reason I am a Christian) has revealed a lot of powerful truth in his teachings that could take a lifetime to just begin to practice and yet make a huge impact in our world. But a healthy start would be to open the box we think we have put God in.
Powerful starting places:
1.) God is much more than the surface we have scratch. (this brings me comfort and awe)
2.) God is the only one qualified to define God.
3.) God chooses who he loves and he is ALL Inclusive!!
4.) Faith bring about the impossible, and has no limits!
5.) True faith in God brings wonder, joy and a desire to grow beyond where we are.
6.) Lets put the limitations of religion (exclusion, condemnation, fear, prejudice, hate, absolutes) in a box and mark it obsolete.
7.) Take the things of our faith(religion, church) that inspire, awe us, and cause us to hunger for justice and relationship with God and one another and pack them with us for our journey of Faith.
8.) Enjoy each day as the adventure of faith God meant for it to be.
9.) Invite EVERYBODY who wants to on this journey with us.
10.) Live by the prayer, "Not my will but yours be done"!
When I made peace with who I am, I realized that the difficulty in my life what not God but was rather religion. Religion attempts to define God and things spiritual. It falls very short in this task but worse yet is when people delude themselves to think they have it all figured out. Humans like to have things figured out and neatly tucked away in a box. It makes us feel secure but it also does away with our need for faith.
So am I trying to start some new Trans-faith philosphy that can bring us some new ideas and new truth. No, in fact I think Christ ( one reason I am a Christian) has revealed a lot of powerful truth in his teachings that could take a lifetime to just begin to practice and yet make a huge impact in our world. But a healthy start would be to open the box we think we have put God in.
Powerful starting places:
1.) God is much more than the surface we have scratch. (this brings me comfort and awe)
2.) God is the only one qualified to define God.
3.) God chooses who he loves and he is ALL Inclusive!!
4.) Faith bring about the impossible, and has no limits!
5.) True faith in God brings wonder, joy and a desire to grow beyond where we are.
6.) Lets put the limitations of religion (exclusion, condemnation, fear, prejudice, hate, absolutes) in a box and mark it obsolete.
7.) Take the things of our faith(religion, church) that inspire, awe us, and cause us to hunger for justice and relationship with God and one another and pack them with us for our journey of Faith.
8.) Enjoy each day as the adventure of faith God meant for it to be.
9.) Invite EVERYBODY who wants to on this journey with us.
10.) Live by the prayer, "Not my will but yours be done"!
Sunday, September 7, 2008
The Prayer of the Kingdom
The Lord's Prayer…
"Our Father in heaven" -- This is an intimate reference to God, as our Heavenly Parent "Abba". Note the "OUR" , he is not "my" God but ours....we are a community, a family that is connected to the heavenly realm in God.
"Hallowed be your name" -- We see God as being holy, sanctified, consecrated; worthy of praise, honor and glory!
"Your kingdom come" - We acknowledge His kingdom that is and is to come. We live in this world but also in a heavenly (spiritual) kingdom. God's rule, purpose and Dream is other ways to describe God's Kingdom.
"Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" -- We are part of brining about God's Dream into this world. We work with God to see His plan brought about. We move forward in faith and optimism to see God's will come to pass.
"Give us today our daily bread" -- As we move forward establishing God's kingdom and His purpose,we look to him as our source and supply for our needs.
NOTE REMEMBER: We go forth in perfect faith in the power of the Omnipresent Good to bring us what we need when we need it.
"Forgive us our debts as we also have forgiven our debtors We live out of a Godly generosity and hold nothing against anyone.
"Lead us not into temptation" -- God does not lead us into temptation but He will lead us out.
"But deliver us from the evil " -- God makes a way for us to overcome evil
"For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory forever"--
This is the prayer of the kingdom......I recommend you to read the book by Brain McLaren, " The Secret Message of Jesus". This book will expound on much about the kingdom message of Jesus.
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Progressive?
What does it mean to be a progressive Christian? Well there are many people much more qualified to answer this question than I. However I will share what this means to me and how I got here.
Progress is an affirmative or positive term. Progress suggests that things are getting better. So does that mean that progressive Christians are better than regular Christians. Not at all. Here progress also means growth, improvement, a moving further. I don't consider myself better, in a prideful or arrogant sense, in fact much of what I consider wrong with the church, I have been guilty of myself. However somewhere along the line the church got lost. We lost some of the basic message of Jesus. We got too full and sure of ourselves.
God's message and love always brings life and improvement. This movement of God that we call progressive is about God waking us up and getting on set on a course, that is a definite improvement and much more relevant to people we touch. I recently heard it described as the church unpacking all of its baggage and then repacking only what is necessary and relevant.
In my estimation the church has become too religious and resembles the pharisees more than Jesus. The church has become exclusive and only those who conform to our ideals are "IN" the rest are "Out". However Jesus reached out to the "outcast" and taught that we are judged by how we treat the "least" He also so closely identified with the "least that he said how you treat the least in society is how you treat him. The present condition of the church has created outcast or misfits. People who feel they don't fit or are not welcome in the church. GLBT people are very much a victim of this although some would take exception at this and some would say they choose to not be part of such a disconnected and obsolete institution. But that is just the point the church was never meant to be an institution but is rather a people of a new kingdom with a message of God's love. A revolutionary force of Love to restore man to a powerful relationship with God and to transform lives through Love and inclusion. This is the message of Christ.
The Progressive movement is a group of these "misfits" who know that there is more and a better way. We must never stop learning, growing and progressing. We must get back to the Love and teachings of Jesus. We must get back to looking like and being Jesus in our world. This is progress. The alternative is to be obsolete and counterproductive.
I am thankful that God has shown me the errors of my ways. I was wrong and "poor in spirit" and once I saw this I was a great candidate to be a part of progressing the kingdom of God. Not because of my success or wisdom, but rather because of my weakness and need.
So,no we are not better than anyone else but there is a better way. God is calling his church to move forward with a renewed sense of the Message of Christ that will have a great impact in this world and will meet people where they are, just like he did and still desires to do. We will not just point out the problems but will seek to be part of the solutions. We are not called to judge, but rather to generously love and reach out to those around us. The question is What is Jesus doing and are we part of it?
Now that is progress!
Progress is an affirmative or positive term. Progress suggests that things are getting better. So does that mean that progressive Christians are better than regular Christians. Not at all. Here progress also means growth, improvement, a moving further. I don't consider myself better, in a prideful or arrogant sense, in fact much of what I consider wrong with the church, I have been guilty of myself. However somewhere along the line the church got lost. We lost some of the basic message of Jesus. We got too full and sure of ourselves.
God's message and love always brings life and improvement. This movement of God that we call progressive is about God waking us up and getting on set on a course, that is a definite improvement and much more relevant to people we touch. I recently heard it described as the church unpacking all of its baggage and then repacking only what is necessary and relevant.
In my estimation the church has become too religious and resembles the pharisees more than Jesus. The church has become exclusive and only those who conform to our ideals are "IN" the rest are "Out". However Jesus reached out to the "outcast" and taught that we are judged by how we treat the "least" He also so closely identified with the "least that he said how you treat the least in society is how you treat him. The present condition of the church has created outcast or misfits. People who feel they don't fit or are not welcome in the church. GLBT people are very much a victim of this although some would take exception at this and some would say they choose to not be part of such a disconnected and obsolete institution. But that is just the point the church was never meant to be an institution but is rather a people of a new kingdom with a message of God's love. A revolutionary force of Love to restore man to a powerful relationship with God and to transform lives through Love and inclusion. This is the message of Christ.
The Progressive movement is a group of these "misfits" who know that there is more and a better way. We must never stop learning, growing and progressing. We must get back to the Love and teachings of Jesus. We must get back to looking like and being Jesus in our world. This is progress. The alternative is to be obsolete and counterproductive.
I am thankful that God has shown me the errors of my ways. I was wrong and "poor in spirit" and once I saw this I was a great candidate to be a part of progressing the kingdom of God. Not because of my success or wisdom, but rather because of my weakness and need.
So,no we are not better than anyone else but there is a better way. God is calling his church to move forward with a renewed sense of the Message of Christ that will have a great impact in this world and will meet people where they are, just like he did and still desires to do. We will not just point out the problems but will seek to be part of the solutions. We are not called to judge, but rather to generously love and reach out to those around us. The question is What is Jesus doing and are we part of it?
Now that is progress!
Friday, September 5, 2008
New affilation
I am so happy to share that as of yesterday I was ordained with the Progressive Christian Alliance. This is a group that I share a common vision and purpose with. I believe God is moving to reach out and share the message of Jesus without the limitations that much of the church and organized religion places on who is "in and who is "out". God is not trying to exclude anybody, and he is not trying to conform people to look like eachother. God is a God of diversity and he celebrates our individuality. We all are unique and are called to a common purpose of Loving God, Each other, and our self. The answer to much of the world's problems are answered by Love!
I have as a gay Christian enjoyed and highly valued my church, MCC of the Palm Beaches and continue to attend and be a part there. However it is my belief that personally God has called me to an inclusive ministry of all people. I have no problem with my being a gay pastor and ministering to gay people but I believe that Christ has called me to minister to all people and I have a dream of seeing many all inclusive churches where sexual orientation is not a problem or whether one is gay or straight. We are just all God's children. I know that for me MCC has been a safe place and I can't express how valuable this has been for me and so many others. However I did not feel personally God calling me to pastor with MCC. I feel a call to reach out to ALL, and I was very honored to find such a great group as PCA.
This blog has been and will remain a GLBT ministry, however its message many times is much broader and is not limited to just our community. Which is why I have added and Friends in the title. This reflects what I believe God is doing.
I have as a gay Christian enjoyed and highly valued my church, MCC of the Palm Beaches and continue to attend and be a part there. However it is my belief that personally God has called me to an inclusive ministry of all people. I have no problem with my being a gay pastor and ministering to gay people but I believe that Christ has called me to minister to all people and I have a dream of seeing many all inclusive churches where sexual orientation is not a problem or whether one is gay or straight. We are just all God's children. I know that for me MCC has been a safe place and I can't express how valuable this has been for me and so many others. However I did not feel personally God calling me to pastor with MCC. I feel a call to reach out to ALL, and I was very honored to find such a great group as PCA.
This blog has been and will remain a GLBT ministry, however its message many times is much broader and is not limited to just our community. Which is why I have added and Friends in the title. This reflects what I believe God is doing.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Seeking First the Kingdom (part 2)
I use to say that I have no problem putting faith in God but my faith in man is another issue. However this is not the right kind of world view. That kind of outlook is part of the problem.
However it is harder to believe that the world will change because it takes more perseverance, and may take a lifetime to see. However we are a part of that process. God doesnt just intervene and make things happen. It is a process that includes faithful followers who are influenced by the Spirit of God and led. They are defined by faith and hope that looks to the future by faith. They move forward with an attitude that I stated yesterday in the quote, " We go forth in perfect faith in the power of the Omnipresent Good to bring us what we need when we need it." When you seek God's purpose as it is your own purpose, God will supply everything you need. The universe will create opportunities to bring about the Will of God. Fear and evil is not the only forces working in the world. This world was created for the Good Will of God to be fulfilled whether we are talking of the potential of people, justice, and rightness. The same spirit that hovered over the face of the deep and chaos during creation is hovering over it still desiring to fulfill and bring about the complete potential and purpose in this present world. I may not see it all fulfilled in my lifetime but I will give my life to doing my part for the kingdom.
Not my will, but yours be done.....is not a religeous statement or a christian platitude but it is the kingdom way of life.
However it is harder to believe that the world will change because it takes more perseverance, and may take a lifetime to see. However we are a part of that process. God doesnt just intervene and make things happen. It is a process that includes faithful followers who are influenced by the Spirit of God and led. They are defined by faith and hope that looks to the future by faith. They move forward with an attitude that I stated yesterday in the quote, " We go forth in perfect faith in the power of the Omnipresent Good to bring us what we need when we need it." When you seek God's purpose as it is your own purpose, God will supply everything you need. The universe will create opportunities to bring about the Will of God. Fear and evil is not the only forces working in the world. This world was created for the Good Will of God to be fulfilled whether we are talking of the potential of people, justice, and rightness. The same spirit that hovered over the face of the deep and chaos during creation is hovering over it still desiring to fulfill and bring about the complete potential and purpose in this present world. I may not see it all fulfilled in my lifetime but I will give my life to doing my part for the kingdom.
Not my will, but yours be done.....is not a religeous statement or a christian platitude but it is the kingdom way of life.
Living Faith Simply Stated
Sometimes we can make things too complicated or at least I can. This morning I came across a quote that is a statement of faith or affirmation that as a daily focus would set our heart of faith in the right direction as we carry out God's call on our lives.
"We go forth in perfect faith in the power of the Omnipresent Good to bring us what we need when we need it."
"We go forth in perfect faith in the power of the Omnipresent Good to bring us what we need when we need it."
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Seeking First the Kingdom (part 1)
Jesus teaches us not to worry about our life, but seek first the kingdom of God and what we need will be freely given to us by God. But what does the "kingdom of God" mean. "Kingdom" is translated " realm of God", "God's World" in other versions. The kingdom or realm of God is a reality and is more real than the natural world that we know and see. That does not mean we should be so spiritually minded that we are no earthly good. We are meant to be "river" by which the spirit or Life of God can flow into this world. We are to bring the light and Love of God to a broken world.
Jesus is our example of Kingdom living. He did not live for himself and he did not live for other people, but instead he lived for the Father. He lived the Will of God. He reached out and treated people the way God would. He became love, wisdom, strength, a voice for them. He made a difference here and now.
I read a quote recently that I want to share:
"Jesus sees every person as abnormal but gives up no one as lost. If people were not as they are, they would have no need of Salvation. So, in the next place, Jesus allows all to come to him as they are: sinners and righteous, poor and rich, healthy and sick. Jesus gives himself to each person as he is; and people ought not play up their own piety and put down that of others."
Reprinted from www.bruderhof.com. Copyright
Jesus is our example of Kingdom living. He did not live for himself and he did not live for other people, but instead he lived for the Father. He lived the Will of God. He reached out and treated people the way God would. He became love, wisdom, strength, a voice for them. He made a difference here and now.
I read a quote recently that I want to share:
"Jesus sees every person as abnormal but gives up no one as lost. If people were not as they are, they would have no need of Salvation. So, in the next place, Jesus allows all to come to him as they are: sinners and righteous, poor and rich, healthy and sick. Jesus gives himself to each person as he is; and people ought not play up their own piety and put down that of others."
Reprinted from www.bruderhof.com. Copyright
2003 by The Bruderhof Foundation, Inc. Used with permission.
None of us are perfect and this world is far from perfect but God is a God of restoration and He sees the potential of each and if we submit to Him and allow him to use us he can make a great impact on this world. isn't that what salvation is about?
What about heaven? you may ask. Well I thank God that as His child my future is secure. I can rest in His faithfulness and trust him to take care of my tomorrow but as for today he is calling us to seek His purpose and allow him to touch this present world. Heaven is not up there and this world way down here. We tend to think in the context of space and time, God does not. The Spirit realm (Heaven) is very close and present. Heaven can impact our world here. God is desiring to do just that.Tomorrow there will be enough time for rest, but today there is much to be done and the laborers are few.For too long Christians have thought in terms of life beginning when we get to Heaven.
I am not sure exactly the details of the afterlife. Scripture gives us only a few hints, but I do know that this world needs the intervention of God's Grace and Love. There is also many who need others to stand for justice and be there voice. When God wants to intervene in this world he looks for a person of faith that is willing to reach out in His name and represent him.
Jesus taught that although he did great deeds in the earth that it was only the beginning....the church would do even more. The followers of Christ are to continue the work and make a difference in this world.....we are to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, share the good news of God's all inclusive love....and demonstrate it in loving action.
All we need to do is look around us and see the need and ask ourselves, what would God have me do? Then say to God, Not my will, but yours be done...your kingdom come...use me as you will.
What about heaven? you may ask. Well I thank God that as His child my future is secure. I can rest in His faithfulness and trust him to take care of my tomorrow but as for today he is calling us to seek His purpose and allow him to touch this present world. Heaven is not up there and this world way down here. We tend to think in the context of space and time, God does not. The Spirit realm (Heaven) is very close and present. Heaven can impact our world here. God is desiring to do just that.Tomorrow there will be enough time for rest, but today there is much to be done and the laborers are few.For too long Christians have thought in terms of life beginning when we get to Heaven.
I am not sure exactly the details of the afterlife. Scripture gives us only a few hints, but I do know that this world needs the intervention of God's Grace and Love. There is also many who need others to stand for justice and be there voice. When God wants to intervene in this world he looks for a person of faith that is willing to reach out in His name and represent him.
Jesus taught that although he did great deeds in the earth that it was only the beginning....the church would do even more. The followers of Christ are to continue the work and make a difference in this world.....we are to feed the hungry, clothe the naked, share the good news of God's all inclusive love....and demonstrate it in loving action.
All we need to do is look around us and see the need and ask ourselves, what would God have me do? Then say to God, Not my will, but yours be done...your kingdom come...use me as you will.
This is not for the faint of heart !
Generous Living
Jesus taught us to live generous lives. Generous with Love, Generous with forgiveness and even generosity with our enemies. Many people live their lives self-centered. They hoard their time, resources. Modern society doesn't have time for people. We don't take the time to get to know our neoghbors or get to know a stranger we meet in daily life. Have you ever noticed when people are on the elevator they try not to make eye contact. Why are we so greedy with our moments. Life is now, in the very moment you are. Take advantage of the moment and give of yourself to others. Someone might say, "well if I do that they might want something". Well give it to them if it is in your power. Live generously!
Monday, September 1, 2008
Raw Faith
Last night during my prayer time, the Lord began to deal with me about the early Christians. After the death burial and resurrection of Jesus they had to simply follow the last command they had received to go to Jerusalem and wait for the Holy Spirit.
They had no idea what "Christian Living, Church, or Ministry" would look like. Allthey had was the example and teachings of Jesus. Which was all they needed. I think we sometimes get so caught up in traditions, ideas and patterns that we have had passed down to us. Not that all of these should be thrown out....but what needs to happen is we need to get back to the simple message and example of Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to lead us from their.
What got me here was I was meditation on my ministry and asking the Lord for direction because I don't like not knowing where I am going. He gently reminded me that is right where he wants me and this is raw faith!
You may not know where you are going or how you are going to get there....but you can rest in Him where you are now and know that He will lead you from here......
Peace and Love
Mike
They had no idea what "Christian Living, Church, or Ministry" would look like. Allthey had was the example and teachings of Jesus. Which was all they needed. I think we sometimes get so caught up in traditions, ideas and patterns that we have had passed down to us. Not that all of these should be thrown out....but what needs to happen is we need to get back to the simple message and example of Christ and allow the Holy Spirit to lead us from their.
What got me here was I was meditation on my ministry and asking the Lord for direction because I don't like not knowing where I am going. He gently reminded me that is right where he wants me and this is raw faith!
You may not know where you are going or how you are going to get there....but you can rest in Him where you are now and know that He will lead you from here......
Peace and Love
Mike
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