Epiphany 4 - Year C
today
fulfills the past
our infancy is revisable
fulfillment erases
all manner of memory
fulfillment displaces
any and all limits
There will be no curiosity, no enjoyment of the process of life. All competing pleasures will be destroyed. But always — do not forget this, Winston — always there will be the intoxication of power, constantly increasing and constantly growing subtler. Always, at every moment, there will be the thrill of victory, the sensation of trampling on an enemy who is helpless. If you want a picture of the future, imagine a boot stamping on a human face . . . for ever. [1984]
today
begins tomorrow
our future is caste
fulfillment completed
erase faith
fulfillment fulfilled
displace hope
soma is enough
There's always soma to calm your anger, to reconcile you to your enemies, to make you patient and long-suffering. In the past you could only accomplish these things by making a great effort and after years of hard moral training. Now, you swallow two or three half-gramme tablets, and there you are. Anybody can be virtuous now. You can carry at least half your morality about in a bottle. Christianity without tears - that's what soma is." [Brave New World]
today
reveals continuums
our present vibrates
fulfillment awaits
love's dance
fulfillment makes room
engaging gifts
face-to-face
Friday, January 29, 2010
Thursday, January 28, 2010
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
Epiphany 4 - Year C
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
"When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good." [The Message]
Isn't it good to be able to know we recapitulated the development of all people. We are not divinity wrapped in flesh. We are both at each stage along the way. Sometimes it is more evident and sometimes less, but is never one or the other.
In acknowledgement of our past we can glory in our poopy pants (Merriam-Webster online reminds us that "poop" can refer to a ship's stern/rear, defecation, exhaustion, or information - sort of like the mystery of G*D's backside) and rejoice in those who cared for us when we couldn't do so for ourselves. We will leave our past behind, in terms of not repeating it, as we incorporate it into our present approach to life (caring) and our goals (seeing more and more clearly who we are in relationship to others). Our past is not embarrassment, but instructive and encouraging.
Can you see faith/trust, hope, and love at work in your infancy? Your present? Your time to come? In your friends/congregation/context as well as yourself? To see these qualities over time helps us become more comfortable with the ambiguity of partiality and to appreciate our latest developmental plateau, even as we consolidate and prepare to move on.
1 Corinthians 13:1-13
"When I was an infant at my mother's breast, I gurgled and cooed like any infant. When I grew up, I left those infant ways for good." [The Message]
Isn't it good to be able to know we recapitulated the development of all people. We are not divinity wrapped in flesh. We are both at each stage along the way. Sometimes it is more evident and sometimes less, but is never one or the other.
In acknowledgement of our past we can glory in our poopy pants (Merriam-Webster online reminds us that "poop" can refer to a ship's stern/rear, defecation, exhaustion, or information - sort of like the mystery of G*D's backside) and rejoice in those who cared for us when we couldn't do so for ourselves. We will leave our past behind, in terms of not repeating it, as we incorporate it into our present approach to life (caring) and our goals (seeing more and more clearly who we are in relationship to others). Our past is not embarrassment, but instructive and encouraging.
Can you see faith/trust, hope, and love at work in your infancy? Your present? Your time to come? In your friends/congregation/context as well as yourself? To see these qualities over time helps us become more comfortable with the ambiguity of partiality and to appreciate our latest developmental plateau, even as we consolidate and prepare to move on.
Psalm 71:1-6
Epiphany 4 - Year C
Psalm 71:1-6
"Sheltering Rock" is the Hebrew behind "my rock and my fortress" and moves us away from static to dynamic imagery. This attending friend can show up in many a situation: external wars to internal aging. As a description of the Temple or an organizing principle it brings a response of thankfulness.
It is all too easy to make this psalm into a dramatic place where we go to appeal to and appease some larger entity. Consider the difference when we travel with, rather than to, a sense of refuge large enough that we are emboldened in action to proceed into the regular places of life with a sense of élan.
In the following letter to a local paper, "Sheltering Rock" is "a" type of language and "my Rock and my Fortress" is "the" talk. What do you think?
- - - - - - -
Haiti has had a literal earthquake that needs both immediate band-aids and long-term structural responses. In the United States our political lives give evidence of an invisible quake revealing faults, rifts, and gaps between families and parties. The State of the Union Address by President Obama reminded us of that in these words, "I know that all of us love this country. All of us are committed to its defense. So let's put aside the schoolyard taunts about who's tough. Let's reject the false choice between protecting our people and upholding our values. Let's leave behind the fear and division, and do what it takes to defend our nation and forge a more hopeful future...."
Whether a decision-making context (politics) is that of family, institution, community, nation, or international, a first step in dealing with our division is a sincere acknowledgment that we have a problem that has gone beyond our ability to deal with it. Without this confession, breeches between perspectives will widen.
There is a simple and manageable, though very difficult, behavior that can be used at every level of disagreement. It is a new way of talking that takes every-day and life-long practice - to change our language from the definiteness of "the" to a humbler, more flexible and realistic conversation about "a" particular when we are dealing with common issues.
Our ease at turning a given situation or perspective into universals for all times and situations can be noted by listening to conversations and our own statements. Check out how often you hear "the" talk canceling out all options and how substituting "a" opens us to the best from all sides meeting one another and moving us forward.
By putting so much emphasis upon "the", we convince ourselves that we are absolutely right, someone is to blame, and there is no good in another's question or wisdom in another's experience that would widen our perspective and deepen the value of a resolution to a common problem. I am hopeful that we haven't yet let gaps between us widen to the point where we can't yet join hands in a larger goal than point-proving.
Matters of import such as health care, energy and environment, and beneficial uses of taxes have many individual and communal aspects that need the best each of us have to offer. Though it seems too simplistic, an awareness of our language by which we address common issues, can actually be a huge step forward in effective action. I invite you to join me in the persistent work needed for deeper listening, clearer framing, and more inclusive responses to "life's persistent questions", as Guy Noir® would put it.
Psalm 71:1-6
"Sheltering Rock" is the Hebrew behind "my rock and my fortress" and moves us away from static to dynamic imagery. This attending friend can show up in many a situation: external wars to internal aging. As a description of the Temple or an organizing principle it brings a response of thankfulness.
It is all too easy to make this psalm into a dramatic place where we go to appeal to and appease some larger entity. Consider the difference when we travel with, rather than to, a sense of refuge large enough that we are emboldened in action to proceed into the regular places of life with a sense of élan.
In the following letter to a local paper, "Sheltering Rock" is "a" type of language and "my Rock and my Fortress" is "the" talk. What do you think?
- - - - - - -
Haiti has had a literal earthquake that needs both immediate band-aids and long-term structural responses. In the United States our political lives give evidence of an invisible quake revealing faults, rifts, and gaps between families and parties. The State of the Union Address by President Obama reminded us of that in these words, "I know that all of us love this country. All of us are committed to its defense. So let's put aside the schoolyard taunts about who's tough. Let's reject the false choice between protecting our people and upholding our values. Let's leave behind the fear and division, and do what it takes to defend our nation and forge a more hopeful future...."
Whether a decision-making context (politics) is that of family, institution, community, nation, or international, a first step in dealing with our division is a sincere acknowledgment that we have a problem that has gone beyond our ability to deal with it. Without this confession, breeches between perspectives will widen.
There is a simple and manageable, though very difficult, behavior that can be used at every level of disagreement. It is a new way of talking that takes every-day and life-long practice - to change our language from the definiteness of "the" to a humbler, more flexible and realistic conversation about "a" particular when we are dealing with common issues.
Our ease at turning a given situation or perspective into universals for all times and situations can be noted by listening to conversations and our own statements. Check out how often you hear "the" talk canceling out all options and how substituting "a" opens us to the best from all sides meeting one another and moving us forward.
By putting so much emphasis upon "the", we convince ourselves that we are absolutely right, someone is to blame, and there is no good in another's question or wisdom in another's experience that would widen our perspective and deepen the value of a resolution to a common problem. I am hopeful that we haven't yet let gaps between us widen to the point where we can't yet join hands in a larger goal than point-proving.
Matters of import such as health care, energy and environment, and beneficial uses of taxes have many individual and communal aspects that need the best each of us have to offer. Though it seems too simplistic, an awareness of our language by which we address common issues, can actually be a huge step forward in effective action. I invite you to join me in the persistent work needed for deeper listening, clearer framing, and more inclusive responses to "life's persistent questions", as Guy Noir® would put it.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Jeremiah 1:4-19
Epiphany 4 - Year C
Jeremiah 1:4-19
Jeremiah can be compared to Moses. Though this is the beginning of his life of prophecy, it extended for 40 years, as did Moses' work. Both begin their ministry with natural images - burning bush and almond branch. Both have priestly connections as well as prophetic. Both mark changes in eras - from captivity and into it.
Jeremiah represents a lifetime of calls (verses 1-3). I hope you are enjoying your latest call. There is no telling how long it will last before another comes along. So, gird up those loins, young or old, and grasp your walking stick for there are miles to go, calls to go.
In each of your calls there will be elements for you to:
pull up and tear down,
take apart and demolish,
and, then, start over,
building and planting.
This is simply a matter of a consequence of life. It cannot ethically be avoided. And so the call to enjoy your opportunities to participate in journeying with G*D and Neighbors, whether in a demolishing or planting call.
Jeremiah 1:4-19
Jeremiah can be compared to Moses. Though this is the beginning of his life of prophecy, it extended for 40 years, as did Moses' work. Both begin their ministry with natural images - burning bush and almond branch. Both have priestly connections as well as prophetic. Both mark changes in eras - from captivity and into it.
Jeremiah represents a lifetime of calls (verses 1-3). I hope you are enjoying your latest call. There is no telling how long it will last before another comes along. So, gird up those loins, young or old, and grasp your walking stick for there are miles to go, calls to go.
In each of your calls there will be elements for you to:
pull up and tear down,
take apart and demolish,
and, then, start over,
building and planting.
This is simply a matter of a consequence of life. It cannot ethically be avoided. And so the call to enjoy your opportunities to participate in journeying with G*D and Neighbors, whether in a demolishing or planting call.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Luke 4:21-30
Epiphany 4 - Year C
Luke 4:21-30
Yes, Jesus picked this particular fight with his hometown.
All was going swimmingly. Jesus reads Isaiah and claims it. Those in the synagogue were affirming. They marveled and remembered back to before Jesus saw John at the Jordan as well as stories of more recent exploits.
It would be interesting to get the back story of Jesus that led to his striking out at these close-to-adoring people. Does Jesus need some revisionist history instead of those who saw him scab his knee and run to Mary for a kiss on his boo-boo? Perhaps he is just tired from recent exploits and wanted to cut off requests for more. Whichever, whatever, Jesus is responsible for this event.
Can't you see the townspeople with their hooray, Jesus' response, and then the town folks angry response. How sad for all concerned. Hope, faith and love seem particularly absent in Jesus' attempt to leave his infancy behind.
While there is a tendency to equate this to Jesus' later entry into Jerusalem and the crowd changing from Hosanna to Hang-em, it is better to wrestle with this incident. What went wrong? Where do you see that same wrongness in these days?
Luke 4:21-30
Yes, Jesus picked this particular fight with his hometown.
All was going swimmingly. Jesus reads Isaiah and claims it. Those in the synagogue were affirming. They marveled and remembered back to before Jesus saw John at the Jordan as well as stories of more recent exploits.
It would be interesting to get the back story of Jesus that led to his striking out at these close-to-adoring people. Does Jesus need some revisionist history instead of those who saw him scab his knee and run to Mary for a kiss on his boo-boo? Perhaps he is just tired from recent exploits and wanted to cut off requests for more. Whichever, whatever, Jesus is responsible for this event.
Can't you see the townspeople with their hooray, Jesus' response, and then the town folks angry response. How sad for all concerned. Hope, faith and love seem particularly absent in Jesus' attempt to leave his infancy behind.
While there is a tendency to equate this to Jesus' later entry into Jerusalem and the crowd changing from Hosanna to Hang-em, it is better to wrestle with this incident. What went wrong? Where do you see that same wrongness in these days?
Friday, January 22, 2010
Today?
Epiphany 3 - Year C
Ahh, so many gifts and so many ways to respond to them with falsity.
http://www.agnusday.org/strips/1Corinthians12v3to13_2005.jpg
The gift of vocation is so easily subverted from within. Have you found your apostleship, teaching, healing, organizing, etc. subject to passive/aggressive or other tendencies?
So many gifts and so much fear to use them.
http://www.reverendfun.com/?date=20031201
Enough, already, you are who you are and will be who you will be. Time to get on with it, today in front of G*D and everyone, for "better" or "worse".
Ahh, so many gifts and so many ways to respond to them with falsity.
http://www.agnusday.org/strips/1Corinthians12v3to13_2005.jpg
The gift of vocation is so easily subverted from within. Have you found your apostleship, teaching, healing, organizing, etc. subject to passive/aggressive or other tendencies?
So many gifts and so much fear to use them.
http://www.reverendfun.com/?date=20031201
Enough, already, you are who you are and will be who you will be. Time to get on with it, today in front of G*D and everyone, for "better" or "worse".
Thursday, January 21, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
Epiphany 3 - Year C
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
Jesus was filled with the power of Gift.
You are filled with the power of Gift.
OK, there are varieties of gifts, but, please, with Gift there is no way to measure a greater gift from a lesser gift. Don't bother going there or striving there.
If striving is to be done, may it be that we strive to claim our Gift in this moment so that, "Today my Gift is being fulfilled through . . . ." is our rallying cry. When two or three are fulfilling their Gifts together, community is formed and prayers are responded to.
- - - - - - -
Those interested in such as a Gift coming-of-age book would do well to follow the Annals of the Western Shore series by Ursula Le Guin: Gifts, Voices, and Powers.
1 Corinthians 12:12-31a
Jesus was filled with the power of Gift.
You are filled with the power of Gift.
OK, there are varieties of gifts, but, please, with Gift there is no way to measure a greater gift from a lesser gift. Don't bother going there or striving there.
If striving is to be done, may it be that we strive to claim our Gift in this moment so that, "Today my Gift is being fulfilled through . . . ." is our rallying cry. When two or three are fulfilling their Gifts together, community is formed and prayers are responded to.
- - - - - - -
Those interested in such as a Gift coming-of-age book would do well to follow the Annals of the Western Shore series by Ursula Le Guin: Gifts, Voices, and Powers.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Psalm 19
Epiphany 3 - Year C
Psalm 19
Day says, "Let there be . . . ."
Night wisdom reveals, "And it is good."
Yet evening and morning are not heeded.
The on-goingness of creation carries no weight.
Likewise with laws and revelations, whether G*D's or not
they carry no weight.
Even warned, errors occur and are unrecognized.
So, how do I weigh my own words and heart?
Self-proclaimed as weighty (reprise Sen. Brown's "victory" speech)
and so weightless.
Weightless enough to be blameless and innocent
(not the highest of virtues in an incarnate world).
Now that we know enough to not take ourselves seriously
we can return to the top
to join day and night in
heightened expectation and expansive goodness.
Psalm 19
Day says, "Let there be . . . ."
Night wisdom reveals, "And it is good."
Yet evening and morning are not heeded.
The on-goingness of creation carries no weight.
Likewise with laws and revelations, whether G*D's or not
they carry no weight.
Even warned, errors occur and are unrecognized.
So, how do I weigh my own words and heart?
Self-proclaimed as weighty (reprise Sen. Brown's "victory" speech)
and so weightless.
Weightless enough to be blameless and innocent
(not the highest of virtues in an incarnate world).
Now that we know enough to not take ourselves seriously
we can return to the top
to join day and night in
heightened expectation and expansive goodness.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 4-6, 8-10
Epiphany 3 - Year C
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 4-6, 8-10
Once again, all the news that's fit to print, isn't all the news. Even as others as illustrious as Moses have needed help to hold up their hands, Ezra needed others on the platform with him. Likewise, additional others were needed to teach, reinforce, and interpret all the had heard.
When these helpers are left out of the story we have extracted experience from creed. Imagine a Bible reader and a bunch of people. Pretty boring. It is in the interaction in community, beyond a printed page, where life happens. Verse 9c wouldn't have "the people weeping" simply from hearing - the interpreters were and are key and they were left out of this pericope.
Before placing too much on your dulcet tones intoning a communal covenant, remember those standing with you, near or far, and those who will be striving to help others make sense out of what comes out of your mouth. Go ahead, name these folks. The revelation you have to impart will only be enhanced by the naming. You are not in this alone: we're in it together - Ezra and Meshullam and Kelita and you and I.
Nehemiah 8:1-3, 4-6, 8-10
Once again, all the news that's fit to print, isn't all the news. Even as others as illustrious as Moses have needed help to hold up their hands, Ezra needed others on the platform with him. Likewise, additional others were needed to teach, reinforce, and interpret all the had heard.
When these helpers are left out of the story we have extracted experience from creed. Imagine a Bible reader and a bunch of people. Pretty boring. It is in the interaction in community, beyond a printed page, where life happens. Verse 9c wouldn't have "the people weeping" simply from hearing - the interpreters were and are key and they were left out of this pericope.
Before placing too much on your dulcet tones intoning a communal covenant, remember those standing with you, near or far, and those who will be striving to help others make sense out of what comes out of your mouth. Go ahead, name these folks. The revelation you have to impart will only be enhanced by the naming. You are not in this alone: we're in it together - Ezra and Meshullam and Kelita and you and I.
Luke 4:14-21
Epiphany 3 - Year C
Luke 4:14-21
Jesus, filled with Spirit power, returns to Galilee. What do you do when so filled?
The society column of the time not only noted who poured out at Mrs. Peter's, but who was traveling and where. The editorialists and pundits picked up on yet another bandwagon and wrote and talked, repeatedly, about the significance of Jesus as though he were an extension of their own preferences.
All these reports about Jesus were leading to confusion. On the appropriate Sabbath, Jesus took advantage of the reading of the day to proclaim, in no uncertain terms, in very certain class, economics, and power terms the trouble he was brewing - a revolutionary vision for the mobilization of the poor, freedom unreasonable seizure, reform of the privileged, and overcoming oppression. This was not only a challenge end and means of systems, but a challenge not to be delayed for another year (much less 49 years) - a challenge for right now, this year.
A follow-up question to what you do when Spirit-filled (become a brewer of trouble), asks when you will do it. Well? Any reason not to have your spirit-filling revealed today?
Luke 4:14-21
Jesus, filled with Spirit power, returns to Galilee. What do you do when so filled?
The society column of the time not only noted who poured out at Mrs. Peter's, but who was traveling and where. The editorialists and pundits picked up on yet another bandwagon and wrote and talked, repeatedly, about the significance of Jesus as though he were an extension of their own preferences.
All these reports about Jesus were leading to confusion. On the appropriate Sabbath, Jesus took advantage of the reading of the day to proclaim, in no uncertain terms, in very certain class, economics, and power terms the trouble he was brewing - a revolutionary vision for the mobilization of the poor, freedom unreasonable seizure, reform of the privileged, and overcoming oppression. This was not only a challenge end and means of systems, but a challenge not to be delayed for another year (much less 49 years) - a challenge for right now, this year.
A follow-up question to what you do when Spirit-filled (become a brewer of trouble), asks when you will do it. Well? Any reason not to have your spirit-filling revealed today?
Friday, January 15, 2010
variety
Epiphany 2 - Year C
variety
a most uncommon
common-good
dispersed
so widely
none can claim
status
miraculous
it is to use
miracle to hold
gift to gift
intermingled
interpretation balances wisdom
tongues and knowledge are paralleled
miracle sits in the middle
that is no middle
faith requires discernment
healing instructs
water
universal solvent
homeopathic intensifier
brings forth
wine
rejoice
for my sake
names change
dawn
steadfast
love-winged
gifts
variety
a most uncommon
common-good
dispersed
so widely
none can claim
status
miraculous
it is to use
miracle to hold
gift to gift
intermingled
interpretation balances wisdom
tongues and knowledge are paralleled
miracle sits in the middle
that is no middle
faith requires discernment
healing instructs
water
universal solvent
homeopathic intensifier
brings forth
wine
rejoice
for my sake
names change
dawn
steadfast
love-winged
gifts
Thursday, January 14, 2010
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
Epiphany 2 - Year C
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
I am always amused and aggravated at the way Paul can so easily slip from an either/or didacticism regarding Jesus' "name" to an open-ended appreciation of variety of gifts attributed to a Spirit of this same Jesus. I experience no harm to this pericope should verses 2 and 3 happen to get erased or not spoken when reading. Try it: 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-11.
With that detail cared for, consider again the variety of images of G*D that G*D seems to have an appreciation for. They range from deserts to your life this day. All the named and unnamed gifts are expressions of an original blessing. Perhaps you will appreciate Chris Smither's song, "Origin of Species" - lyrics and performance.
For those of you who aren't into links, here is the pertinent section of the song:
God said: "I'll make some DNA"
They can use it any way they want
From paramecium
Right up to man."
"They'll have sex
And mix up sections of their code
They'll have mutations...
The whole thing works like clockwork over time."
"I'll just sit back in the shade
While everyone gets laid.
That's what I call
Intelligent design."
Yeah, you and your cat named Felix,
Both wrapped up in that double helix,
Is what we call
Intelligent design.
Paul calls this DNA "the same G*D who activates [each gift]". Appreciate an Original Blessing or First Gift that has manifested as you. Pretty amazing, are you!
1 Corinthians 12:1-11
I am always amused and aggravated at the way Paul can so easily slip from an either/or didacticism regarding Jesus' "name" to an open-ended appreciation of variety of gifts attributed to a Spirit of this same Jesus. I experience no harm to this pericope should verses 2 and 3 happen to get erased or not spoken when reading. Try it: 1 Corinthians 12:1, 4-11.
With that detail cared for, consider again the variety of images of G*D that G*D seems to have an appreciation for. They range from deserts to your life this day. All the named and unnamed gifts are expressions of an original blessing. Perhaps you will appreciate Chris Smither's song, "Origin of Species" - lyrics and performance.
For those of you who aren't into links, here is the pertinent section of the song:
God said: "I'll make some DNA"
They can use it any way they want
From paramecium
Right up to man."
"They'll have sex
And mix up sections of their code
They'll have mutations...
The whole thing works like clockwork over time."
"I'll just sit back in the shade
While everyone gets laid.
That's what I call
Intelligent design."
Yeah, you and your cat named Felix,
Both wrapped up in that double helix,
Is what we call
Intelligent design.
Paul calls this DNA "the same G*D who activates [each gift]". Appreciate an Original Blessing or First Gift that has manifested as you. Pretty amazing, are you!
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Psalm 36
Epiphany 2 - Year C
Psalm 36
In the first verses we find "personified Transgression" living through those who listen to it. There is mischief afoot.
In the final verse the "evil doers" or "moral midgets" are found sprawled on the ground having tripped over their own mischievous feet.
Hints about how to avoid this comeuppance are found in the middle two verses. Here we are reminded about the value of a solidly grounded sense of rightness with judgments based on firm foundations and oriented toward the long-term. Here we know that salvation is universal; it is for all and won't be complete for me until it is complete for you and other parts of creation. Here we have affirmed love that is steadfast, regardless of any separations to date. Here we are called to be sources of refuge winging hope to the despairing.
In this middle section we have a protocol for water changing to wine, scoundrels turning round right, and apathy become advocacy.
Psalm 36
In the first verses we find "personified Transgression" living through those who listen to it. There is mischief afoot.
In the final verse the "evil doers" or "moral midgets" are found sprawled on the ground having tripped over their own mischievous feet.
Hints about how to avoid this comeuppance are found in the middle two verses. Here we are reminded about the value of a solidly grounded sense of rightness with judgments based on firm foundations and oriented toward the long-term. Here we know that salvation is universal; it is for all and won't be complete for me until it is complete for you and other parts of creation. Here we have affirmed love that is steadfast, regardless of any separations to date. Here we are called to be sources of refuge winging hope to the despairing.
In this middle section we have a protocol for water changing to wine, scoundrels turning round right, and apathy become advocacy.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Isaiah 62:1-5
Epiphany 2 - Year C
Isaiah 62:1-5
For whose sake will you not shut up? Let us count those who covet our voice.
Yes, the list will extend past our ability to count and also reveal our bias and our blindness. It is important to start anyway. Are you willing to list 5 for whose sake you will not be quiet.
Here are five to get the ball rolling, add five more and send the list on to others. It would be interesting to see the results of several lists after they have been added to a dozen or so times.
- those diminished by others for their sexual orientation
- those constrained by mental illness
- those victims at every level by war (including those perpetrating such)
- those who simply hunger and thirst
- those whose words are but shadows of their thoughts and feelings
and yours?
-
-
-
-
-
To what end will we speak up? That those spoken for, and all, might see themselves crowned with beauty, delighted, and in community.
Isaiah 62:1-5
For whose sake will you not shut up? Let us count those who covet our voice.
Yes, the list will extend past our ability to count and also reveal our bias and our blindness. It is important to start anyway. Are you willing to list 5 for whose sake you will not be quiet.
Here are five to get the ball rolling, add five more and send the list on to others. It would be interesting to see the results of several lists after they have been added to a dozen or so times.
- those diminished by others for their sexual orientation
- those constrained by mental illness
- those victims at every level by war (including those perpetrating such)
- those who simply hunger and thirst
- those whose words are but shadows of their thoughts and feelings
and yours?
-
-
-
-
-
To what end will we speak up? That those spoken for, and all, might see themselves crowned with beauty, delighted, and in community.
Monday, January 11, 2010
John 2:1-11
Epiphany 2 - Year C
John 2:1-11
Ahh, the magic three-day time-frame. What can't happen on a third-day!
Immediately prior to this is a call to Philip and Nathanael. They are promised a variation of Jacob's ladder, with "the Son of Man" as a ladder upon which angels scamper to-and-fro. You can almost hear these newly-called talking after their initial experience, "All very exciting now, I think we need to see what happens on the the third day before we believe more deeply than exclaiming an honored title."
Turns out it was an experience that confirmed their call. Mary's angelic messenger was extra speedy running up and down that ladder. Water was turned to wine: Jesus' whine was turned to sign.
Well, by metaphoric definition, this is a third-day - as is any ordinary day. What can't happen on a third day! Are you still looking to find out? Let us know what you find.
[Note: Metaphoric definitions are the best kind. Go ahead, make some up.]
John 2:1-11
Ahh, the magic three-day time-frame. What can't happen on a third-day!
Immediately prior to this is a call to Philip and Nathanael. They are promised a variation of Jacob's ladder, with "the Son of Man" as a ladder upon which angels scamper to-and-fro. You can almost hear these newly-called talking after their initial experience, "All very exciting now, I think we need to see what happens on the the third day before we believe more deeply than exclaiming an honored title."
Turns out it was an experience that confirmed their call. Mary's angelic messenger was extra speedy running up and down that ladder. Water was turned to wine: Jesus' whine was turned to sign.
Well, by metaphoric definition, this is a third-day - as is any ordinary day. What can't happen on a third day! Are you still looking to find out? Let us know what you find.
[Note: Metaphoric definitions are the best kind. Go ahead, make some up.]
Friday, January 08, 2010
Attached
Epiphany 1 - Year C
how does it feel
to follow a late star
no not Theda Bara
a star star in the sky sky
everything seems
on track
when you are
hitched to a star
then lost focus
disappointing enough
to appeal to authority
when only you have it
even late in time
star time meets earth time
gifts are given
expectations met
needs are great
saviors are late
13 or 30 years late
so many stars come and gone
a star child
needs more than wishes
so a star bird
attaches "pleased"
connections made
star gifts
star dove
new wisdom
beloved chosen
into hands received
entrusted again and again
star new risen
how does it feel
to follow a late star
no not Theda Bara
a star star in the sky sky
everything seems
on track
when you are
hitched to a star
then lost focus
disappointing enough
to appeal to authority
when only you have it
even late in time
star time meets earth time
gifts are given
expectations met
needs are great
saviors are late
13 or 30 years late
so many stars come and gone
a star child
needs more than wishes
so a star bird
attaches "pleased"
connections made
star gifts
star dove
new wisdom
beloved chosen
into hands received
entrusted again and again
star new risen
Thursday, January 07, 2010
Acts 8:14-17
Epiphany 1 - Year C
Acts 8:14-17
This dualism of the "word of God" and "Holy Spirit" presents a number of difficulties. It seems more institutional than experiential or helpful.
The same goes for a dry baptism in Jesus' name and a wet baptism of sweaty hands. Apparently baptism is not baptism is not baptism in the reverse of a rose, rose, rose. Again we get distinctions of particulars that will lead to division rather than a unity of integral growth in each life.
A social justice question rises here. Suppose you hear that someone has a new lease on life, a hope of freedom, are you going to go to them to say, "You're deluded about your new perspective on meaning, interpret it according to my experience and you'll be much better off."? Think back to the Civil Rights movement. Folks had a new word to follow and so many wanted them to add on another layer of work through the legislative means to legitimate their view.
Think ahead to the need for clean water in Cambodia. Through Deanna Shimko and others, a word of God had been heard and pumps installed. Can you imagine telling them that they they should hold off on that word and work until flouride can be added to the water?
This need to control experience was, is, and will be deadly, whether it is about G*D or sexual orientation. The Church gets both badly wrong when it operates from a "here's the way it happened to me and so this is the way it should happen to you" mentality.
Acts 8:14-17
This dualism of the "word of God" and "Holy Spirit" presents a number of difficulties. It seems more institutional than experiential or helpful.
The same goes for a dry baptism in Jesus' name and a wet baptism of sweaty hands. Apparently baptism is not baptism is not baptism in the reverse of a rose, rose, rose. Again we get distinctions of particulars that will lead to division rather than a unity of integral growth in each life.
A social justice question rises here. Suppose you hear that someone has a new lease on life, a hope of freedom, are you going to go to them to say, "You're deluded about your new perspective on meaning, interpret it according to my experience and you'll be much better off."? Think back to the Civil Rights movement. Folks had a new word to follow and so many wanted them to add on another layer of work through the legislative means to legitimate their view.
Think ahead to the need for clean water in Cambodia. Through Deanna Shimko and others, a word of God had been heard and pumps installed. Can you imagine telling them that they they should hold off on that word and work until flouride can be added to the water?
This need to control experience was, is, and will be deadly, whether it is about G*D or sexual orientation. The Church gets both badly wrong when it operates from a "here's the way it happened to me and so this is the way it should happen to you" mentality.
Wednesday, January 06, 2010
Psalm 29
Epiphany 1 - Year C
Psalm 29
Very much an appeal to the vanity of any ruler. Ten verses extol the leader and the eleventh reveals the end to which the praise is oriented - give the brownnoser strength, blessing, peace on their terms (all euphemisms for rain). A psalm about water rights.
I suppose it would be a pleasant change of pace to have the Fox Network try this approach in their relations with President Obama. However, it is not the methodology of our time. Can you imagine Bill O'Reilly or Keith Olbermann or Glen Beck or Ed Schultz building up their opponent first (without a sarcastic sneer in their voice) to be able to best describe their need for a refreshing shower?
How do you go about appealing for relief? Praise or Protestation?
Psalm 29
Very much an appeal to the vanity of any ruler. Ten verses extol the leader and the eleventh reveals the end to which the praise is oriented - give the brownnoser strength, blessing, peace on their terms (all euphemisms for rain). A psalm about water rights.
I suppose it would be a pleasant change of pace to have the Fox Network try this approach in their relations with President Obama. However, it is not the methodology of our time. Can you imagine Bill O'Reilly or Keith Olbermann or Glen Beck or Ed Schultz building up their opponent first (without a sarcastic sneer in their voice) to be able to best describe their need for a refreshing shower?
How do you go about appealing for relief? Praise or Protestation?
Tuesday, January 05, 2010
Isaiah 43:1-7
Epiphany 1 - Year C
Isaiah 43:1-7
What a revelation it is when we hear our name called by creation. Our fears - relieved, our context - widened, and our participation - precious. We see ourselves through a telescope backward, changing our perspective from the up-close to a larger context tying us to past and future in such a way that our present is honored as a connection spot, a place to connect the dots of all the scattered people.
We open our eyes and dive in to enjoy swimming in a river that is never the same.
Isaiah 43:1-7
What a revelation it is when we hear our name called by creation. Our fears - relieved, our context - widened, and our participation - precious. We see ourselves through a telescope backward, changing our perspective from the up-close to a larger context tying us to past and future in such a way that our present is honored as a connection spot, a place to connect the dots of all the scattered people.
We open our eyes and dive in to enjoy swimming in a river that is never the same.
Monday, January 04, 2010
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
Epiphany 1 - Year C
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
So often we look at Scripture through the lens of individual heroes. Today look at the People as a collective hero. Revelations come not just through John about what it is not, but also through the People about their state of being.
Behold, more people than expected, including Jesus, came out to Brother John. This is not just a draw from John, but a push from their expectations, their hope, their need, their desire, their wonder.
In some sense it is the expectancy of the people at work here and John is but one of their focal points as they search out evidence for their hope still dwelling below the surface.
The missing verses show us Wilderness John imprisoned. The people have been imprisoned. The people ask, "Are you the one we expect?" Later John will ask that same question, "Are you the one we expect?"
Even today the question is being asked of you and me, "Are you the expected one?" Well, it is time to respond. Are you the best shoe tier where you are - recognizing who needs your support and giving them more time, energy, and resources than is practical? Claim it and support. Are you the best one around to lead those with the same passion as yourself? Claim it and lead.
Who you are not is important, but it leads to other questions about how you will live, not how you won't live. Remember it is important to be among people with expectations, that's where Jesus surfaces from in this telling. In the midst of simply doing what expectant people do, Jesus receives his recognition about himself and off he will set. In the midst of simply doing what expectant people do, may you receive your next vocational recognition.
Luke 3:15-17, 21-22
So often we look at Scripture through the lens of individual heroes. Today look at the People as a collective hero. Revelations come not just through John about what it is not, but also through the People about their state of being.
Behold, more people than expected, including Jesus, came out to Brother John. This is not just a draw from John, but a push from their expectations, their hope, their need, their desire, their wonder.
In some sense it is the expectancy of the people at work here and John is but one of their focal points as they search out evidence for their hope still dwelling below the surface.
The missing verses show us Wilderness John imprisoned. The people have been imprisoned. The people ask, "Are you the one we expect?" Later John will ask that same question, "Are you the one we expect?"
Even today the question is being asked of you and me, "Are you the expected one?" Well, it is time to respond. Are you the best shoe tier where you are - recognizing who needs your support and giving them more time, energy, and resources than is practical? Claim it and support. Are you the best one around to lead those with the same passion as yourself? Claim it and lead.
Who you are not is important, but it leads to other questions about how you will live, not how you won't live. Remember it is important to be among people with expectations, that's where Jesus surfaces from in this telling. In the midst of simply doing what expectant people do, Jesus receives his recognition about himself and off he will set. In the midst of simply doing what expectant people do, may you receive your next vocational recognition.