Easter 5 - Year B
John 15:1-8
By this is G*D revealed - that good fruits appear through people's lives. There is no doctrine or higher thought that can substitute for direct action. Nothing less than giving evidence of growing will do. This is not something that can await another day or a sufficient guarantee of results.
Here at General Conference there is a sense that we are dealing with an utopian situation, we legislate as though the whole world awaits our decision as an undoubtable revelation of salvation, health and wholeness, for all and for all time. Again the very presence of G*D gets in the way of a reasonable next step in favor of some unattainable ultimate. There is no humility available in deciding by a majority vote. There comes only resolve to not have our time-bound idea be beaten next time around.
It is most difficult to wait for fruit to appear when people are literally dying because of the felt theological pain of those who use the Bible (any revelatory mechanism) as a chain for others, a Procrustean bed with them as the ideal.
Who does not abide within the gift of creation? This is not the kind of abiding that can be legislated. To limit abiding to a particular take is to miss the entire point. There are none that cannot bear more fruit, more G*D, more self.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Saturday, April 28, 2012
forward the good
Easter 4 - Year B
the good
care
good shepherds
good politicians
good artists
the good
partner
good bench warmers
good bee keepers
good prophets
the good
expand
good communities
good families
good hearts
the good
volunteer
good resources
good energy
good time
the good
empower
...
the good
care
good shepherds
good politicians
good artists
the good
partner
good bench warmers
good bee keepers
good prophets
the good
expand
good communities
good families
good hearts
the good
volunteer
good resources
good energy
good time
the good
empower
...
Thursday, April 26, 2012
1 John 3:16-24
Easter 4 - Year B
1 John 3:16-24
Today at General Conference there was to be a time of “Holy Conferencing”. Because of debates over Rules this began late. There were technical snafus that also got in the way of a number of groups. Gil Rendle had some helpful words about changes in church and culture in the last years that could and should lead us to look again at what it means to be in mission in a world that is asking similar questions but coming up with a whole variety of responses (this is different from just a short time ago when we had the same answer to the same question). Unfortunately there were time issues that were a convenient excuse to not process our various conversations.
This passage would have been helpful to have reviewed before intentionally deeper conversation than usual. What does it mean to lay down one’s life for another? If Jesus could do it, why can’t his followers? It is difficult to intigrate truth and action and to know this frailty is important to dealing with our differences. How do we get beyond our feelings that have tied us to G*D in such dogmatic ways? We keep confusing loving another with desiring for them to reflect our self.
Without a serious attempt to abide in another and to have that reciprocated, there is no conferencing—supposedly “holy” or not.
1 John 3:16-24
Today at General Conference there was to be a time of “Holy Conferencing”. Because of debates over Rules this began late. There were technical snafus that also got in the way of a number of groups. Gil Rendle had some helpful words about changes in church and culture in the last years that could and should lead us to look again at what it means to be in mission in a world that is asking similar questions but coming up with a whole variety of responses (this is different from just a short time ago when we had the same answer to the same question). Unfortunately there were time issues that were a convenient excuse to not process our various conversations.
This passage would have been helpful to have reviewed before intentionally deeper conversation than usual. What does it mean to lay down one’s life for another? If Jesus could do it, why can’t his followers? It is difficult to intigrate truth and action and to know this frailty is important to dealing with our differences. How do we get beyond our feelings that have tied us to G*D in such dogmatic ways? We keep confusing loving another with desiring for them to reflect our self.
Without a serious attempt to abide in another and to have that reciprocated, there is no conferencing—supposedly “holy” or not.
Wednesday, April 25, 2012
Acts 4:5-12
Easter 4 - Year B
Acts 4:5-12
High-priests of every time have the power to make suspects stand in their midst to be grilled. “Explain yourselves,” they demand, “why aren’t you like us?”
Here at General Conference the same dynamic has been going on for 40 years. Suspects are still standing in the midst of the currently orthodox. “Explain yourselves,” is still being demanded. “Prove that you are of G*D, for in our scriptures you are an abomination, heretical.” Then it was Peter and John who were suspect; today it is the descenants of Peter and John who suspect anyone associated with the GLBT community.
Ah, what power does to confuse us and to forget formative experiences. Would that those who have the power, the votes, had the good sense to accept the mystery of G*D-at-work. Then it was a most unexpected healing of an individual. Now it is a very expected variation in human sexuality.
In both cases the hierarchy (including the swaying middle) has set its limit of accessibility. It has defined G*D so narrowly that they cannot but be set into a tizzy if healing or acceptability is extended further than is profitable. Institutional survival takes precedence of all else.
Imagine, if you will, an investigation into reality instead of an escape into blame. How would that have looked like then? And now?
Acts 4:5-12
High-priests of every time have the power to make suspects stand in their midst to be grilled. “Explain yourselves,” they demand, “why aren’t you like us?”
Here at General Conference the same dynamic has been going on for 40 years. Suspects are still standing in the midst of the currently orthodox. “Explain yourselves,” is still being demanded. “Prove that you are of G*D, for in our scriptures you are an abomination, heretical.” Then it was Peter and John who were suspect; today it is the descenants of Peter and John who suspect anyone associated with the GLBT community.
Ah, what power does to confuse us and to forget formative experiences. Would that those who have the power, the votes, had the good sense to accept the mystery of G*D-at-work. Then it was a most unexpected healing of an individual. Now it is a very expected variation in human sexuality.
In both cases the hierarchy (including the swaying middle) has set its limit of accessibility. It has defined G*D so narrowly that they cannot but be set into a tizzy if healing or acceptability is extended further than is profitable. Institutional survival takes precedence of all else.
Imagine, if you will, an investigation into reality instead of an escape into blame. How would that have looked like then? And now?
Psalm 23
Easter 4 - Year B
Psalm 23
What do good friends do for one another?
One thing is that they care for their friend when their friend can’t seem to care for themselves. They comfort, with strength, not just dismiss the severity of the matter to the person concerned. All too often we deny another’s experience, but a good friend continues to affirm, to lead, to feed, and to bless by facing the felt reality of their friend.
This sort of goodness and mercy, of beauty and love, is incalculable for it continues connections and allows us to live together through dark days as well as bright.
At General Conference we constantly run into folks who are out for themselves first, last, and only. Here is a report from Dan Dick’s United Methodeviations blog on activities that shows the presence of an anti-Psalm 23 friendship:
Psalm 23
What do good friends do for one another?
One thing is that they care for their friend when their friend can’t seem to care for themselves. They comfort, with strength, not just dismiss the severity of the matter to the person concerned. All too often we deny another’s experience, but a good friend continues to affirm, to lead, to feed, and to bless by facing the felt reality of their friend.
This sort of goodness and mercy, of beauty and love, is incalculable for it continues connections and allows us to live together through dark days as well as bright.
At General Conference we constantly run into folks who are out for themselves first, last, and only. Here is a report from Dan Dick’s United Methodeviations blog on activities that shows the presence of an anti-Psalm 23 friendship:
This church is God’s and we are merely privileged to take part in it. Yet, we so readily claim “my” church as though we have an entitled and proprietary right to it (and others do not). I eavesdropped on a conversation where a woman was energetically explaining to her companion that a group (I don’t know who specifically she was referring to) was “out to destroy the church.” She went on to claim that “they” won’t listen to anyone and “we” have to make sure “they” don’t get their way… I am pretty sure this is not the best attitude with which to enter General Conference. Just a thought.
Monday, April 23, 2012
John 10:11-18
Easter 4 - Year B
Shepherds and sheep are mutually dependent upon one another. This is an ancient and deep relationship. They have an investment in one another’s well-being.
It is the investment that they have in one another that defines each of them.
We have often used this in a hierarchical model of G*D directs (has a plan for) Jesus. Jesus, in turn, directs (has a plan for) us (his sheep).
Listen again for the issue of inclusion (I have other sheep beyond this flock) and investment (I lay down my life for sheep far and near). While listening, take advantage of the opportunity to evaluate how your day is going in regard to inclusion beyond your usual contacts and your investment in larger living that will take your energy and resources to move relationships toward mutuality.
The United Methodist Church erroneously claims that baptized, gifted, and called gays and lesbians may not be ordained. Today I’ll be carrying a sign, still to be written, that will say something like:
It is right, and a good and joyful thing,
that GLBTIQ UMs
always and everywhere give thanks to G*D
by praying
always and everywhere give thanks to G*D
by praying
The Great Thanksgiving
Too subtle?
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Preparation
Easter 3 - Year B
The postings this week have been interrupted with preparation and travel to the 2012 General Conference of the United Methodist Church in Tampa, Florida. Given the energy expenditure at this international gathering to legislate the "method" of this denomination for the next 4 years, there may be additional outages over the next two weeks.
It is often in the interruptions of life that life pokes its head a bit further out of its hiddenness. So, relish these interruptions and what comes out of silence to you.
Practically, I am specifically at General Conference as an advocate for the dismantling of 40 years of discrimination against the GLBTIQ community. The UMC has falsely said, "Homosexuality is incompatible with Christian teaching." Apparently the UMC has a limited understanding of teaching—the literal interpretation of a smattering of scripture passages without their context.
If you are interested in following this General Conference through a bit of my eyes, you can go to LoveOnTrial.org. While there you can help support Rev. Amy DeLong and her witness at General Conference by going to the "Donate" page.
Time to get back to some late-minute preparations.
1 John 3:1-7
Easter 3 - Year B
See what G*D has offered through creation—partnership. This is what we are: Partners.
When we are not known, G*D is not known. When G*D’s expansive and expanding love is not known, we are not known.
How the hiddenness of life will be revealed is still a mystery. When we have glimpses of healthy life we see how we are partnered with one another, G*D, and all of creation. This is the essence of hope—that life will be revealed.
This is a good place to leave things without having to go on to talk of sin, guilt, and lawlessness. Each of these hide our basic partnership. Our work is not to pile on reasons why we can’t participate in revolutionary revelation. Don’t let anyone fool you into these judgments that only spiral downward. Note, rather, what is harmful and don’t do it; what is helpful and do it. In this is our partnership with all and our health.
Psalm 4
Easter 3 - Year B
Psalm 4
Answer me!
You answered before!
Do it again!
How long will you love vanity?
How long will you seek after what you want to hear?
Is this what I look like—shameful?
I know I’m worthily faithful!
I’ve been set apart, privileged!
So why aren’t I getting an answer, only a provisional response??
You really are disturbed, but you you don’t have to go awry.
It seems you have lost track of what is trustworthy.
Spend more time in dreamland.
Oh.
Gladness is not dependent upon answers.
I can sleep in peace, and do.
Psalm 4
Answer me!
You answered before!
Do it again!
How long will you love vanity?
How long will you seek after what you want to hear?
Is this what I look like—shameful?
I know I’m worthily faithful!
I’ve been set apart, privileged!
So why aren’t I getting an answer, only a provisional response??
You really are disturbed, but you you don’t have to go awry.
It seems you have lost track of what is trustworthy.
Spend more time in dreamland.
Oh.
Gladness is not dependent upon answers.
I can sleep in peace, and do.
Tuesday, April 17, 2012
Acts 3:12-26
Easter 3 - Year B
Acts 3:12-26
Bait and switch is an ancient tradition. Come for the miracle and stay for the doctrine.
To document this, read what just went before this pericope. Here it sounds as if the man healed was the one with faith in Jesus. But remember that the lame man was only asking for alms, as he had done for all his life. It was Peter who enters Jesus into the conversation. It was Peter who enters faith in Christ into the scene. It was Peter who said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk” [emphasis added].
Peter continues this switch as he turns to those observing this event and claims his, Peter’s, faith is the only blessed one available. Believe with me or you will be utterly rooted out. This is precursor to Constantine enforcing one particular strand of Christianity into the only orthodoxy available.
The Message puts the dynamic at work here as, “When Peter saw he had a congregation, he addressed the people.” Ahh, were Peter simply to have dealt with a lame man, we would never have gotten this apology for orthodoxy that makes heretics out of equally faithful folks, just differently faithful. Without this apology we might again pay attention to the wild variety of gifts and calls and miracles and signs and faith available at different times and stages of life and opportunities for experience.
Acts 3:12-26
Bait and switch is an ancient tradition. Come for the miracle and stay for the doctrine.
To document this, read what just went before this pericope. Here it sounds as if the man healed was the one with faith in Jesus. But remember that the lame man was only asking for alms, as he had done for all his life. It was Peter who enters Jesus into the conversation. It was Peter who enters faith in Christ into the scene. It was Peter who said, “I have no silver or gold, but what I have I give you; in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, stand up and walk” [emphasis added].
Peter continues this switch as he turns to those observing this event and claims his, Peter’s, faith is the only blessed one available. Believe with me or you will be utterly rooted out. This is precursor to Constantine enforcing one particular strand of Christianity into the only orthodoxy available.
The Message puts the dynamic at work here as, “When Peter saw he had a congregation, he addressed the people.” Ahh, were Peter simply to have dealt with a lame man, we would never have gotten this apology for orthodoxy that makes heretics out of equally faithful folks, just differently faithful. Without this apology we might again pay attention to the wild variety of gifts and calls and miracles and signs and faith available at different times and stages of life and opportunities for experience.
Monday, April 16, 2012
Luke 24:13-49
Easter 3 - Year B
Luke 24:13-49
“A stranger in Jerusalem” would be a good title for a book. Knowing what others don’t is the equivalent of having questions others don’t - like the proverbial Martian visiting earth.
Notice the lack of overt evangelism here. Jesus walks with folks. Jesus listens to folks try to understand the not-understandable. He does reflect out loud about expected consequences (labeled as scriptural here, but simply a reality check that could be posited even without previous prophets).
Jesus’ comments captured their imagination, but it was the fellowship that confirmed it in their hearts. When this “click” happens the source becomes invisible in the same way that air is invisible to us and yet is all around and within, giving life, or water is for fish.
Note that it is while the travelers were sharing their moment of enlightenment that fellowship (loving one another) would confirm or dismiss any particular doctrinal formulation. Enlightenment also holds a mystery symbolized by a shift in attention. Jesus shifts from invisible background to visible foreground and back to invisible—just like in any good illusion.
As if to confirm the primacy of fellowship, Jesus moves his generic “Peace” language to “let’s get real” language - touch, feast, repentance, and forgiveness.
We need to be in touch, to eat together, to mutually correct courses and preemptively forgive. It is important to begin where we are. In this case, Jerusalem. In our case, church. If we are not in close enough contact to touch and feast we won’t be able to share in repentance and forgiveness. Without these the church loses contact with the world and there is no message or preaching that will trump these basics for more than a moment.
Remember John Wesley’s old purpose statement and its particular locus:
Question: What may we reasonably believe to be God’s design in raising up the Preachers called Methodists?
Response: Not to form any new sect; but to reform the nation, particularly the Church; and to spread scriptural holiness over the land.
After remembering, what greater reform does the church need than a renewal of touch, feast, repentance, forgiveness.
Luke 24:13-49
“A stranger in Jerusalem” would be a good title for a book. Knowing what others don’t is the equivalent of having questions others don’t - like the proverbial Martian visiting earth.
Notice the lack of overt evangelism here. Jesus walks with folks. Jesus listens to folks try to understand the not-understandable. He does reflect out loud about expected consequences (labeled as scriptural here, but simply a reality check that could be posited even without previous prophets).
Jesus’ comments captured their imagination, but it was the fellowship that confirmed it in their hearts. When this “click” happens the source becomes invisible in the same way that air is invisible to us and yet is all around and within, giving life, or water is for fish.
Note that it is while the travelers were sharing their moment of enlightenment that fellowship (loving one another) would confirm or dismiss any particular doctrinal formulation. Enlightenment also holds a mystery symbolized by a shift in attention. Jesus shifts from invisible background to visible foreground and back to invisible—just like in any good illusion.
As if to confirm the primacy of fellowship, Jesus moves his generic “Peace” language to “let’s get real” language - touch, feast, repentance, and forgiveness.
We need to be in touch, to eat together, to mutually correct courses and preemptively forgive. It is important to begin where we are. In this case, Jerusalem. In our case, church. If we are not in close enough contact to touch and feast we won’t be able to share in repentance and forgiveness. Without these the church loses contact with the world and there is no message or preaching that will trump these basics for more than a moment.
Remember John Wesley’s old purpose statement and its particular locus:
Question: What may we reasonably believe to be God’s design in raising up the Preachers called Methodists?
Response: Not to form any new sect; but to reform the nation, particularly the Church; and to spread scriptural holiness over the land.
After remembering, what greater reform does the church need than a renewal of touch, feast, repentance, forgiveness.
Friday, April 13, 2012
holy humor rises
Easter 2 - Year B
holy humor rises quickly
to chuckles and belly-laughs
what was first seen as personal
and unique beyond humanity
soon passes from separated sacredness
to everyday everydayness
resurrection is to be passed forward
calming the fearful where’er they be
closed rooms and dark tombs
are different only in spelling
from out of nowhere and anywhere
a spark glows into laughter
common-good becomes common
as well as good good
joy is doubled as doubts are raised
now able to be dealt with
even as Thomas is Twinned in us
a not seen blesses the not seen
heart and soul prophecy against profits
as they are laid at one another’s feet
when what is mine is also yours
holy humor rises quickly
holy humor rises quickly
to chuckles and belly-laughs
what was first seen as personal
and unique beyond humanity
soon passes from separated sacredness
to everyday everydayness
resurrection is to be passed forward
calming the fearful where’er they be
closed rooms and dark tombs
are different only in spelling
from out of nowhere and anywhere
a spark glows into laughter
common-good becomes common
as well as good good
joy is doubled as doubts are raised
now able to be dealt with
even as Thomas is Twinned in us
a not seen blesses the not seen
heart and soul prophecy against profits
as they are laid at one another’s feet
when what is mine is also yours
holy humor rises quickly
1 John 1:1-2:5
Easter 2 - Year B
1 John 1:1-2:5
Resurrection is communal and experiential. If one of these is lost or subsumed under the other, new life is snuffed aborning.
Our very joy is tied up with space and time with one another as well as striking off on our own. The rhythm of these keeps both alive.
By the time we get to formalizing either our communal mores or individual experience, there is a temptation to universalize our particular set of circumstances. If we claim only light or only dark or only faith or only sin, we are still a long way from breaking through to a new perspective.
What is asked for is not atoning sacrifice. This is loaded language that rings falser than it does true and is ultimately beside the point. What is asked for coherence between our various communities and selves. What is asked for is having both our common endeavors and our individual gifts move us to be one with grandest desires and common tripping points that they might inform one another.
1 John 1:1-2:5
Resurrection is communal and experiential. If one of these is lost or subsumed under the other, new life is snuffed aborning.
Our very joy is tied up with space and time with one another as well as striking off on our own. The rhythm of these keeps both alive.
By the time we get to formalizing either our communal mores or individual experience, there is a temptation to universalize our particular set of circumstances. If we claim only light or only dark or only faith or only sin, we are still a long way from breaking through to a new perspective.
What is asked for is not atoning sacrifice. This is loaded language that rings falser than it does true and is ultimately beside the point. What is asked for coherence between our various communities and selves. What is asked for is having both our common endeavors and our individual gifts move us to be one with grandest desires and common tripping points that they might inform one another.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Psalm 133
Easter 2 - Year B
Psalm 133
How good and pleasant it is when we live together. It is an anointing of the whole community, in addition to a series of individuals.
It is this living together that reveals an original blessing - a tree of life not forgotten in the midst of all that we come to know.
Have you gotten the message yet? - resurrection is a communal event!
Psalm 133
How good and pleasant it is when we live together. It is an anointing of the whole community, in addition to a series of individuals.
It is this living together that reveals an original blessing - a tree of life not forgotten in the midst of all that we come to know.
Have you gotten the message yet? - resurrection is a communal event!
Acts 4:32-35
Easter 2 - Year B
Acts 4:32-35
When we are together, but fearful, we are not together.
When we are together, under a word of “Peace”, we are of one heart and soul. Our possessions are each others. Common good means both “common” and “good”.
This is a sign of the resurrection - that the last word to the disciples has become real - “Love one another as I have loved you.”
Resurrection opens our eyes to need, beyond want, and addresses need directly. When resurrection is only a concept, but not a reality, we find all manner of means to cover “need” with “want” and it turns out that my want always trumps your need.
Acts 4:32-35
When we are together, but fearful, we are not together.
When we are together, under a word of “Peace”, we are of one heart and soul. Our possessions are each others. Common good means both “common” and “good”.
This is a sign of the resurrection - that the last word to the disciples has become real - “Love one another as I have loved you.”
Resurrection opens our eyes to need, beyond want, and addresses need directly. When resurrection is only a concept, but not a reality, we find all manner of means to cover “need” with “want” and it turns out that my want always trumps your need.
Monday, April 09, 2012
John 20:19-31
Easter 2 - Year B
John 20:19-31
It was evening (dark) and the doors were locked (cold stone closed) for fear (death) was present.
These times come to everyone. Usually it is not physical tombs that we are in, but emotional, psychological, societal, or other binds that reduce us to fearful reactions. Fear is more prevalent than death.
Into these times a word of “Peace” is needed to be heard. It may come in any number of forms that shine a light on our current reality and future possibilities. “Wholeness” is reminder that is constantly slipping away from us.
When peace and wholeness are clearly in front of us, we can catch another glimpse of an important purpose of common-good. We have a mission larger than ourselves, larger than our fear. It will allow us to face both life and a consequence of death.
These easter moments of peace and wholeness fit the stereotype of a Holy Spirit at work. But, whatever language, sacred or not, is put on these experiences, we find those moments put down a fulcrum point of peace and we can begin to lever against fear. We put our hand to the plow, so to speak, or into a past wound - keeping it alive in our mind and working to see it is not repeated.
Yes, this episode was repeated, sign after sign, for it is such a difficult one to grasp. As soon as we think we have it corralled, fear breaks out again. Was it that Jesus did many different signs or simply variations on this one? As Jesus was visited in the tomb, so a Spirit of Peace, of Jesus, visits us in our fears that we might have life, abundantly, peacefully, wholly.
John 20:19-31
It was evening (dark) and the doors were locked (cold stone closed) for fear (death) was present.
These times come to everyone. Usually it is not physical tombs that we are in, but emotional, psychological, societal, or other binds that reduce us to fearful reactions. Fear is more prevalent than death.
Into these times a word of “Peace” is needed to be heard. It may come in any number of forms that shine a light on our current reality and future possibilities. “Wholeness” is reminder that is constantly slipping away from us.
When peace and wholeness are clearly in front of us, we can catch another glimpse of an important purpose of common-good. We have a mission larger than ourselves, larger than our fear. It will allow us to face both life and a consequence of death.
These easter moments of peace and wholeness fit the stereotype of a Holy Spirit at work. But, whatever language, sacred or not, is put on these experiences, we find those moments put down a fulcrum point of peace and we can begin to lever against fear. We put our hand to the plow, so to speak, or into a past wound - keeping it alive in our mind and working to see it is not repeated.
Yes, this episode was repeated, sign after sign, for it is such a difficult one to grasp. As soon as we think we have it corralled, fear breaks out again. Was it that Jesus did many different signs or simply variations on this one? As Jesus was visited in the tomb, so a Spirit of Peace, of Jesus, visits us in our fears that we might have life, abundantly, peacefully, wholly.
Thursday, April 05, 2012
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
Easter - Year B
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
I am assuming that your behavior was integrous, not hypocritical; steady, not a passing fancy; for good and for good.
Even if you were operating out of a different set of beliefs, it is a grace that we can participate in the building up of a new community. Some have come out of seeing a horrific death and blessed resurrection. Others have come out of following a life well-lived and willingness to accept consequences.
Whichever path has brought you near to one another, remember that G*D is so gracious and generous to each of us for life and death have an eternal relationship. One does not trump the other. May you have G*D-given energy to speak your larger truths and entrust yourself to a vision worthy of pulling you and all into a better future.
1 Corinthians 15:1-11
I am assuming that your behavior was integrous, not hypocritical; steady, not a passing fancy; for good and for good.
Even if you were operating out of a different set of beliefs, it is a grace that we can participate in the building up of a new community. Some have come out of seeing a horrific death and blessed resurrection. Others have come out of following a life well-lived and willingness to accept consequences.
Whichever path has brought you near to one another, remember that G*D is so gracious and generous to each of us for life and death have an eternal relationship. One does not trump the other. May you have G*D-given energy to speak your larger truths and entrust yourself to a vision worthy of pulling you and all into a better future.
Hebrews 10:16-25 or Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Good Friday - Year B
Hebrews 10:16-25 and Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Whether following the United Methodist or Roman Catholic pericope, we have to deal with a reinstitution of a high priesthood as the only vehicle through which we can access G*D’s mercy. For some reason or other mercy cannot be mercy on its own, but only if earned by someone or another.
Mercy is understood to break all the rules for the presence of G*D. Mercy provokes us to additional acts of mercy. Against mercy there are no limitations other than our proclivity to ration and control a G*D careening out of control and being merciful beyond our capacity.
If Jesus can sympathize with weakness, there is no one who will be left out. Jesus learned this from a pagan, Melchizedek, a Syrophenician woman, unnamed, and each and every prophet. Whether we learn mercy from outside or inside a religious tradition, let us affirm our hope, participate in love and good deeds, encourage one another, and identify with those left out.
Hebrews 10:16-25 and Hebrews 4:14-16; 5:7-9
Whether following the United Methodist or Roman Catholic pericope, we have to deal with a reinstitution of a high priesthood as the only vehicle through which we can access G*D’s mercy. For some reason or other mercy cannot be mercy on its own, but only if earned by someone or another.
Mercy is understood to break all the rules for the presence of G*D. Mercy provokes us to additional acts of mercy. Against mercy there are no limitations other than our proclivity to ration and control a G*D careening out of control and being merciful beyond our capacity.
If Jesus can sympathize with weakness, there is no one who will be left out. Jesus learned this from a pagan, Melchizedek, a Syrophenician woman, unnamed, and each and every prophet. Whether we learn mercy from outside or inside a religious tradition, let us affirm our hope, participate in love and good deeds, encourage one another, and identify with those left out.
1 Corinthians 11:23-32
Maundy Thursday - Year B
1 Corinthians 11:23-32
Paul passed on what he received. The same is incumbent upon each of us. As generation is added to generation and experience to experience, what have you received? What have you passed on?
Are you proclaiming the building of community through common meals and common good? Are you threatening judgment on any who do so through an “unworthy” manner (meaning not approved by the received knowledge of those in power)?
Yes, examine yourself. Are you still connecting creedal purity with physical health? Are you still using portions of the scripture to shun baptized and communing members for whatever reason?
A common meal is not a formal ritual, it is a multi-valent experience of common life with all the messiness such brings. Feast well. Gather strength to helpfully deal with weakness, including your own.
1 Corinthians 11:23-32
Paul passed on what he received. The same is incumbent upon each of us. As generation is added to generation and experience to experience, what have you received? What have you passed on?
Are you proclaiming the building of community through common meals and common good? Are you threatening judgment on any who do so through an “unworthy” manner (meaning not approved by the received knowledge of those in power)?
Yes, examine yourself. Are you still connecting creedal purity with physical health? Are you still using portions of the scripture to shun baptized and communing members for whatever reason?
A common meal is not a formal ritual, it is a multi-valent experience of common life with all the messiness such brings. Feast well. Gather strength to helpfully deal with weakness, including your own.
Wednesday, April 04, 2012
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Easter - Year B
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Continuing with first lines from the psalmist . . . .
On “Maundy” Thursday we hear the psalmist lead off with:
“I love you, YHWH, for you have heard my voice and my supplications.”
On “Good” Friday the lead is:
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning.”
Now, on “Easter” Sunday in the beginning is:
“I thank you, YHWH, for your goodness! Your love is everlasting.”
To see love when we are heard and love when we are not heard is a great gift that transforms our relationship with G*D, others, creation, this day, and every day.
May your goodness be enhanced by the background love of the universe.
Psalm 118:1-2, 14-24
Continuing with first lines from the psalmist . . . .
On “Maundy” Thursday we hear the psalmist lead off with:
“I love you, YHWH, for you have heard my voice and my supplications.”
On “Good” Friday the lead is:
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning.”
Now, on “Easter” Sunday in the beginning is:
“I thank you, YHWH, for your goodness! Your love is everlasting.”
To see love when we are heard and love when we are not heard is a great gift that transforms our relationship with G*D, others, creation, this day, and every day.
May your goodness be enhanced by the background love of the universe.
Psalm 22
Good Friday - Year B
Psalm 22
On “Maundy” Thursday we hear the psalmist lead off with:
“I love you, YHWH, for you have heard my voice and my supplications.”
On “Good” Friday the lead is:
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning.”
What a difference a day makes. What day is today for you? Remember the other day is not far behind.
Psalm 22
On “Maundy” Thursday we hear the psalmist lead off with:
“I love you, YHWH, for you have heard my voice and my supplications.”
On “Good” Friday the lead is:
“My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from helping me, from the words of my groaning.”
What a difference a day makes. What day is today for you? Remember the other day is not far behind.
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Maundy Thursday - Year B
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Because I have G*D’s ear and G*D has my ear, I will keep our relationship going as long as I live.
And so a toast with a cup of salvation:
Precious is life
Blessed is death
Freedom between
Brings a House of Hope
A City of Peace
Psalm 116:1-2, 12-19
Because I have G*D’s ear and G*D has my ear, I will keep our relationship going as long as I live.
And so a toast with a cup of salvation:
Precious is life
Blessed is death
Freedom between
Brings a House of Hope
A City of Peace
Tuesday, April 03, 2012
Acts 10:34-43
Easter - Year B
Acts 10:34-43
G*D shows no partiality except for those who fear G*D. From this comes a G*D of the parking place - Praise Jesus, I won’t be walking far today, all is going my way.
Peter doesn’t even have to finish his sermon before folks responded by wanting such partiality to descend upon them. How do you respond to the opportunity to have the largesse of G*D be available to you? No, don’t consider any responsibility, just the privilege.
Easter is a confirmation that you are on the right side, chosen by G*D, and will be blessed with continuation after death. Step right up and drink the kool-aid.
I guess you had to be there. From this distance it is difficult to see how this speech was conversional. Perhaps it had to do with a certain readiness as just before this folks were already kneeling and bowing before Peter. Would that preachers had a Readiness-ometer and would know how to listen to it.
Acts 10:34-43
G*D shows no partiality except for those who fear G*D. From this comes a G*D of the parking place - Praise Jesus, I won’t be walking far today, all is going my way.
Peter doesn’t even have to finish his sermon before folks responded by wanting such partiality to descend upon them. How do you respond to the opportunity to have the largesse of G*D be available to you? No, don’t consider any responsibility, just the privilege.
Easter is a confirmation that you are on the right side, chosen by G*D, and will be blessed with continuation after death. Step right up and drink the kool-aid.
I guess you had to be there. From this distance it is difficult to see how this speech was conversional. Perhaps it had to do with a certain readiness as just before this folks were already kneeling and bowing before Peter. Would that preachers had a Readiness-ometer and would know how to listen to it.
Isaiah 52:1 - 53:12
Good Friday - Year B
Isaiah 52:1 - 53:12
Another long, long passage. There is much here that has been used for a too easy theory of bloody atonement. It seems as if there is an inherent quality of identity for this servant figure. Overlooked in the “will of the Lord to crush him” is the beginning of verse 8 - the power of regime, of privilege, of violence known as “oppressive judgment” or a “perversion of justice” or “seized by force and condemned”.
We all have a hand in delaying justice, which is denying justice. Our vision of other possibilities than the one we seem trapped in is too limited. In Isaiah all this allusive language is a stand-in for the nation, not an individual. We are called to evaluate our reality from the perspective of community. How are we doing as a people, not just my own sense of persecution? If we can begin to approach life communally, we may be able to do social course correction as well as the personal. This gives us an opportunity to redefine our present in light of where we would like to end up so life is not just G*D’s will, but also our engagement with one another as well as with G*D and creation.
Blessings to your journey to reframe judgment against into intercession for.
Isaiah 52:1 - 53:12
Another long, long passage. There is much here that has been used for a too easy theory of bloody atonement. It seems as if there is an inherent quality of identity for this servant figure. Overlooked in the “will of the Lord to crush him” is the beginning of verse 8 - the power of regime, of privilege, of violence known as “oppressive judgment” or a “perversion of justice” or “seized by force and condemned”.
We all have a hand in delaying justice, which is denying justice. Our vision of other possibilities than the one we seem trapped in is too limited. In Isaiah all this allusive language is a stand-in for the nation, not an individual. We are called to evaluate our reality from the perspective of community. How are we doing as a people, not just my own sense of persecution? If we can begin to approach life communally, we may be able to do social course correction as well as the personal. This gives us an opportunity to redefine our present in light of where we would like to end up so life is not just G*D’s will, but also our engagement with one another as well as with G*D and creation.
Blessings to your journey to reframe judgment against into intercession for.
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
Maundy Thursday - Year B
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
Tracking a beginning is very tricky.
Was Jesus’ last Passover meal a beginning or did it begin with his baptism or temptations or miracles or signs or Temple confrontations or showing up the priestly class?
Does Israel’s first month of the year depend on the last of the plagues or did it begin with a babe on the water or a murder or burning bush or a hardened heart?
Where is your marker for your life? Was it an economic turnaround, a lottery ticket, a relationship beginning or ending, a death of a significant person in your life or your own brush with mortality?
Presuming you can identify your own personal turning point, how do you celebrate it? A feast? With cake and candles? And will others carry that on?
Blessings on identifying your beginning point and the point before that. Eventually you’ll get back to a slight moment before a big bang - how mysterious that there is something rather than nothing. Rejoice and move on.
Exodus 12:1-4, (5-10), 11-14
Tracking a beginning is very tricky.
Was Jesus’ last Passover meal a beginning or did it begin with his baptism or temptations or miracles or signs or Temple confrontations or showing up the priestly class?
Does Israel’s first month of the year depend on the last of the plagues or did it begin with a babe on the water or a murder or burning bush or a hardened heart?
Where is your marker for your life? Was it an economic turnaround, a lottery ticket, a relationship beginning or ending, a death of a significant person in your life or your own brush with mortality?
Presuming you can identify your own personal turning point, how do you celebrate it? A feast? With cake and candles? And will others carry that on?
Blessings on identifying your beginning point and the point before that. Eventually you’ll get back to a slight moment before a big bang - how mysterious that there is something rather than nothing. Rejoice and move on.
Monday, April 02, 2012
Mark 16:1-8
Easter - Year B
Mark 16:1-8
Spices brought late anticipate a stink. But brought, nonetheless. For it is an anointing — an acknowledgment that we also name him Beloved. A baptism of spice, not water.
Spices were brought late and later questions arise, “Who will roll away the stone?”
When looked back on, this question was the easiest problem. The stone that wasn’t there — a mystery. A youngster dressed in the brightness of day, just sitting — a mystery. Don’t be afraid — a mystery. Not dead but raised — a mystery.
And we are caught between a rock and a hard place — Tell; Say Nothing. And we stand between — again and again and again.
Again and again and again — a question comes, “How will I deal with a stone that isn’t there?” Tell or Terror? Aye, there be a question worth wrestling with.
Mark 16:1-8
Spices brought late anticipate a stink. But brought, nonetheless. For it is an anointing — an acknowledgment that we also name him Beloved. A baptism of spice, not water.
Spices were brought late and later questions arise, “Who will roll away the stone?”
When looked back on, this question was the easiest problem. The stone that wasn’t there — a mystery. A youngster dressed in the brightness of day, just sitting — a mystery. Don’t be afraid — a mystery. Not dead but raised — a mystery.
And we are caught between a rock and a hard place — Tell; Say Nothing. And we stand between — again and again and again.
Again and again and again — a question comes, “How will I deal with a stone that isn’t there?” Tell or Terror? Aye, there be a question worth wrestling with.
John 18:1 - 19:42
Good Friday - Year B
John 18:1 - 19:42
A long, long reading summarized:
Jesus gardened
Judas and soldiers bring broad-band herbicide
I AM me (are YOU you?)
Peter infected by homicide is tone-deaf to Jesus’ teaching
cuts off another’s ear
Again, “get behind me, Tempter”
Jesus bound for trial (jury-rigged)
seen as scapegoat by priests
denied by Peter
Jesus from frying pan to fire
redefines fire
truth beyond fact
Jesus bartered for
Barabbas released
Jesus beaten
a “non-suit” ruling given
but mob politics rules the day
negative campaigning comes to the fore
Jesus handed over to crucifixion
carried his own torture instrument
crucified naked
I AM your son
I AM your mother
enough
meat thermometer read “done”
cooled and put in the freezer
... to be continued
John 18:1 - 19:42
A long, long reading summarized:
Jesus gardened
Judas and soldiers bring broad-band herbicide
I AM me (are YOU you?)
Peter infected by homicide is tone-deaf to Jesus’ teaching
cuts off another’s ear
Again, “get behind me, Tempter”
Jesus bound for trial (jury-rigged)
seen as scapegoat by priests
denied by Peter
Jesus from frying pan to fire
redefines fire
truth beyond fact
Jesus bartered for
Barabbas released
Jesus beaten
a “non-suit” ruling given
but mob politics rules the day
negative campaigning comes to the fore
Jesus handed over to crucifixion
carried his own torture instrument
crucified naked
I AM your son
I AM your mother
enough
meat thermometer read “done”
cooled and put in the freezer
... to be continued
John 13:1-35
Maundy Thursday - Year B
John 13:1-35
Once Jesus began washing feet, did he complete the circle? Were Judas’ feet washed as a sign of being loved “to the end”? Presumably so. No one is left out of being loved. Neither before, during, or after any act is one denied love.
Missed communication is par for the course. Not only does Peter get confused, but the rest of the disciples can’t decode the symbols and conversation between Jesus and Judas. There is even a mini-communion time between the two of them before their parting.
Note the brief four-word sentence after this communion variant — “And it was night.”
Night is the beginning of a day’s cycle — and it was night and it was morning, the n-th day.
Night is chaos over the deep, a pre-creation opportunity.
Night is where the church often is. Within the United Methodist Church we are in our 40th year of discriminatory legislation blocking the freedom of G*D to gift and call whom G*D desires for “set-aside” ministry. Perhaps it would be best to discontinue offering regular communion until official discrimination ends. To continue is to tacitly support discrimination with the excuse that it is meaningful to us — forgetting all the folks who cannot participate in offering communion.
The church has betrayed Jesus. And it is night. May General Conference 2012 raise a bit of light by moving away from discriminatory legislation. This would sign we were serious about loving one another as we have been loved by G*D through Jesus.
John 13:1-35
Once Jesus began washing feet, did he complete the circle? Were Judas’ feet washed as a sign of being loved “to the end”? Presumably so. No one is left out of being loved. Neither before, during, or after any act is one denied love.
Missed communication is par for the course. Not only does Peter get confused, but the rest of the disciples can’t decode the symbols and conversation between Jesus and Judas. There is even a mini-communion time between the two of them before their parting.
Note the brief four-word sentence after this communion variant — “And it was night.”
Night is the beginning of a day’s cycle — and it was night and it was morning, the n-th day.
Night is chaos over the deep, a pre-creation opportunity.
Night is where the church often is. Within the United Methodist Church we are in our 40th year of discriminatory legislation blocking the freedom of G*D to gift and call whom G*D desires for “set-aside” ministry. Perhaps it would be best to discontinue offering regular communion until official discrimination ends. To continue is to tacitly support discrimination with the excuse that it is meaningful to us — forgetting all the folks who cannot participate in offering communion.
The church has betrayed Jesus. And it is night. May General Conference 2012 raise a bit of light by moving away from discriminatory legislation. This would sign we were serious about loving one another as we have been loved by G*D through Jesus.
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