If you would like to add the gift of water to your presents, then simply go to the website: http://www.water.cc/. If you click on "giftcards", you will be set. The organization is the Living Water International. You will be able to read more about the water crisis, Advent Conspiracy and more.
The four tenets of the Advent Conspiracy have inspired me throughout this season:
*Worship fully
*Spend less
*Give more
*Love all
I hope they resonate with you as well.
On the journey,
Alecia
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Monday, November 22, 2010
The Cost of Being Me
Yesterday in service I had people add up the dollar amount of what they were wearing and of items they were carrying. The list consisted of:
Clothing
Shoes
Undergarments
Jewelry
Purse/wallet
Electronic devices-- phones, ipods, etc.
Glasses/contacts
Money
My clothing and items totaled $247 without the jewelry or $1047 with it. In Kenya the average household income is $245. It stopped me in my tracks to realize just how much it cost to be me. Apparently alot of you had similar feelings. You tried explaining how if I just hadn't included the one category your number would have been in a more "acceptable" range. I believe I am socially aware and try to make wise choices. I simply had not thought about the sheer amount of money that I have on me at any given time.
It jarred me. I'm grateful to have glimpses of clarity into my life, even when I am not sure that I always want to hear it. Thank you God for teaching me in a variety of ways.
On the journey,
Alecia
Clothing
Shoes
Undergarments
Jewelry
Purse/wallet
Electronic devices-- phones, ipods, etc.
Glasses/contacts
Money
My clothing and items totaled $247 without the jewelry or $1047 with it. In Kenya the average household income is $245. It stopped me in my tracks to realize just how much it cost to be me. Apparently alot of you had similar feelings. You tried explaining how if I just hadn't included the one category your number would have been in a more "acceptable" range. I believe I am socially aware and try to make wise choices. I simply had not thought about the sheer amount of money that I have on me at any given time.
It jarred me. I'm grateful to have glimpses of clarity into my life, even when I am not sure that I always want to hear it. Thank you God for teaching me in a variety of ways.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, November 1, 2010
Privileges
As much as I loathed all of the political junk mail of the last two months, I always love the process of voting. I look forward to going to the polls whether it is an off-year election or not, which begs the question as to whether any year is truly an "off" year. Yes, I know it means it is not a presidential year; however as I have looked at the ballot, there are important issues to be decided.
For all of the complaining about local, state and national elections, a surprisingly small amount of people actually turn out to vote. Wouldn't it be a sad commentary on life if more people vote on "Dancing With the Stars" than on our off-year election. It's easy to get fed-up with all of the negative commercials and print ads. It's much more satisfying though to walk into the voting booth and cast your vote.
On the journey,
Alecia
For all of the complaining about local, state and national elections, a surprisingly small amount of people actually turn out to vote. Wouldn't it be a sad commentary on life if more people vote on "Dancing With the Stars" than on our off-year election. It's easy to get fed-up with all of the negative commercials and print ads. It's much more satisfying though to walk into the voting booth and cast your vote.
On the journey,
Alecia
Friday, October 29, 2010
Unsolicited
It feels like everytime I answer the phone at home that another pre-recorded message plays in my ear. My mailbox is under-seige with voter recommendation guides. This does not bode well for the 2012 election. Yet I am still grateful to be part of the election process.
What I don't appreciate, to put it mildly, is unsolicited, unsigned and partisan materials showing up at the church. Anonymous and sometimes graphic materials (abortion) being placed on the wooden table for all to pick up as they enter. This year seems like we are encountering more and more at the church. I don't understand the anonymity to it all. Obviously the views are strongly felt, yet they won't sign their name to it.
A new sign is up on the doors through election day.
Notice:
Unsolicited voting and religious materials will be removed and thrown away.
To the anonymous purveyors of matierials: Stop. Materials without local identification on them do not merit the time of day. Last I checked there is a separation of church and state. My home is one thing, but the church is another.
Well-informed voting is critical and vital. If you haven't already sent in your absentee ballot, then make sure you schedule in time to vote. See you at the polls.
On the journey.
Alecia
What I don't appreciate, to put it mildly, is unsolicited, unsigned and partisan materials showing up at the church. Anonymous and sometimes graphic materials (abortion) being placed on the wooden table for all to pick up as they enter. This year seems like we are encountering more and more at the church. I don't understand the anonymity to it all. Obviously the views are strongly felt, yet they won't sign their name to it.
A new sign is up on the doors through election day.
Notice:
Unsolicited voting and religious materials will be removed and thrown away.
To the anonymous purveyors of matierials: Stop. Materials without local identification on them do not merit the time of day. Last I checked there is a separation of church and state. My home is one thing, but the church is another.
Well-informed voting is critical and vital. If you haven't already sent in your absentee ballot, then make sure you schedule in time to vote. See you at the polls.
On the journey.
Alecia
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
Digging Deeper
For someone who is so verbal in her communication, I always find it puzzling that I struggle with getting my thoughts down on a blog. I will endeavor to keep a weekly commitment with writing.
Two things cross my mind today. First, just a reminder that for those of you that found the Enneagram to be helpful, there is a retreat at my house the first Saturday of November from 9-3:30. You may sign up on the info-stub or by emailing me at pastor@southslope.net.
Perhaps what has caused me to pause and think more critically is the question which came out of the Sunday night small group discussing theological issues from the "Living the Questions Series". Whether or not we agree with the theologians on the screen is secondary to spending good energy on what we as individuals believe, given our background, life experience and Biblical views. This week the question centered on "Who is Jesus?" It seems like a simple enough question, yet conveying our thoughts in a few sentences was harder than it at first looks. I appreciated hearing from one of the group members via email this morning. He wrote poignantly, answering the question. I hope my response is as thoughtful and discerning.
Today on your journey, ponder the question, "Who is Jesus?"
Peace,
Alecia
Two things cross my mind today. First, just a reminder that for those of you that found the Enneagram to be helpful, there is a retreat at my house the first Saturday of November from 9-3:30. You may sign up on the info-stub or by emailing me at pastor@southslope.net.
Perhaps what has caused me to pause and think more critically is the question which came out of the Sunday night small group discussing theological issues from the "Living the Questions Series". Whether or not we agree with the theologians on the screen is secondary to spending good energy on what we as individuals believe, given our background, life experience and Biblical views. This week the question centered on "Who is Jesus?" It seems like a simple enough question, yet conveying our thoughts in a few sentences was harder than it at first looks. I appreciated hearing from one of the group members via email this morning. He wrote poignantly, answering the question. I hope my response is as thoughtful and discerning.
Today on your journey, ponder the question, "Who is Jesus?"
Peace,
Alecia
Thursday, September 9, 2010
A Response for Terry
I find myself outraged at the possibility of a Florida church choosing to burn the Quran on Saturday. Certainly I not alone in my anger. I found myself reacting to the situation. It was at this point I heard the Lord directing me to 2 Chronicles 7:14:
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
Our call is not to react with a response, but to be proactive with the action of prayer. There is great power in prayer; particularly when groups of people seek God. Allowing my anger to be re-directed by the Lord allows for the most powerful of responses. Must the people of God respond -- absolutely. Seek God first.
Join me in prayer -- in your home, as a family, at the church. I will be at the church from 8:30-9:30 am on Saturday the 11th if you would care to join me. What else could be more important than prayer. Find a time to live out your life in God in prayer.
On the journey,
Alecia
Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.
Our call is not to react with a response, but to be proactive with the action of prayer. There is great power in prayer; particularly when groups of people seek God. Allowing my anger to be re-directed by the Lord allows for the most powerful of responses. Must the people of God respond -- absolutely. Seek God first.
Join me in prayer -- in your home, as a family, at the church. I will be at the church from 8:30-9:30 am on Saturday the 11th if you would care to join me. What else could be more important than prayer. Find a time to live out your life in God in prayer.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, August 30, 2010
Saying Goodbye to Polly
Polly died on Sunday, August 29 surrounded by her family. I was taken back by the simple innocence of her faith in God. Polly barely had a week to digest her fate, yet she did it with an openness to God that I have rarely seen.
Native Americans believe that people with special needs are especially close to God. After listening to her testimony of faith, I believe this as well. Polly became a teacher of life and faith to anyone who was open to her words.
I am grateful to have crossed paths with her. Polly reminded me to love God with all of my mind, my heart and my soul. I hope she is enjoying her palace in the sky with the little garden filled with yellow flowers.
When I lift up an A & W root beer later, I will join many others as we speak out, "To Polly".
On the journey,
Alecia
Native Americans believe that people with special needs are especially close to God. After listening to her testimony of faith, I believe this as well. Polly became a teacher of life and faith to anyone who was open to her words.
I am grateful to have crossed paths with her. Polly reminded me to love God with all of my mind, my heart and my soul. I hope she is enjoying her palace in the sky with the little garden filled with yellow flowers.
When I lift up an A & W root beer later, I will join many others as we speak out, "To Polly".
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, August 16, 2010
Hurried Lives
A hurried life implies that a Christian has lost the balance between abiding in God's grace and abounding in God's work. As promised here are the observations John Ortberg concerning the matter from his book, The Me I Want to Be.
1. When can I expect the tension between abiding and abounding to go away? The short answer is when you die! Jesus faced the same issues. Read Mark 1.
2. Who is responsible for getting the tension right?
While the church can be helpful in pointing folks the right direction, the answer is that each individual must continue to seek the balancing point. Often times balance is a moving target, depending on life stage and and obligations.
3. Each person needs certain practices and systems in place.
For me it is not the traditional quiet time, rather it is meditating on a passage while walking. There are a myriad of ways to abide in God's presence. The key is determining which is life-giving and brings you to the presence of God.
4. It is critical to abandon the hope of pleasing everyone.
Because of time restraints, we did not speak about this one in service; however, people pleasing or living up to another's observations sabotages many spiritual lives.
5. Recognize destructive patterns in life, such as:
* Chronic sense of never enough time
* Physica tension in the body
* Inappropriate escapist behavior
* Pre-occupied or inability to be fully present.
I would be interested in hearing what practices work for you.
On the journey,
Alecia
1. When can I expect the tension between abiding and abounding to go away? The short answer is when you die! Jesus faced the same issues. Read Mark 1.
2. Who is responsible for getting the tension right?
While the church can be helpful in pointing folks the right direction, the answer is that each individual must continue to seek the balancing point. Often times balance is a moving target, depending on life stage and and obligations.
3. Each person needs certain practices and systems in place.
For me it is not the traditional quiet time, rather it is meditating on a passage while walking. There are a myriad of ways to abide in God's presence. The key is determining which is life-giving and brings you to the presence of God.
4. It is critical to abandon the hope of pleasing everyone.
Because of time restraints, we did not speak about this one in service; however, people pleasing or living up to another's observations sabotages many spiritual lives.
5. Recognize destructive patterns in life, such as:
* Chronic sense of never enough time
* Physica tension in the body
* Inappropriate escapist behavior
* Pre-occupied or inability to be fully present.
I would be interested in hearing what practices work for you.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, August 9, 2010
The Me I Want to Be -- Confession
Perhaps the most significant aha moment in John Ortberg's book, The Me I Want to Be, was the discussion on confession. In a world that celebrates Christianity Lite where the spiritual walk is based on the desires of the consumer (me), it was an important reminder of the place of confession in a healthy life. It was good to re-read 1 John and the call to living in the light.
The act of confession will make its way more prominently in worship this fall. In worship it will look like a more intention addition to our time of prayer or communion. In a small group, the aspect of accountability is a more natural progression of our spiritual journey. It is not added in corporately per se, but much more relationally.
Reading the book reminds me to thank my covenant group sisters for walking alongside me in life.
Along the journey.
Alecia
The act of confession will make its way more prominently in worship this fall. In worship it will look like a more intention addition to our time of prayer or communion. In a small group, the aspect of accountability is a more natural progression of our spiritual journey. It is not added in corporately per se, but much more relationally.
Reading the book reminds me to thank my covenant group sisters for walking alongside me in life.
Along the journey.
Alecia
Monday, August 2, 2010
The Me I Want To Be
John Ortberg's book, The Me I Want to Be, has been a great summer read for me. Ortberg writes:
I'm a grown man, I thought. I do not know how many years of life are before me. I cannot wait anymore. When I was going to school, I was preoccupied with good grades or getting cute girls to like me. As the years went by, I became preoccupied with work and my circumstances because I thought they would make me feel alive. I can't wait anymore to be that man, I thought.
I realized this then, and I know it now: I want that life more than I want anything else. Not because I think I'm supposed to, not because it says somewhere that you should. I want it. There is a me I want to be.
As I am being reminded periodically by faithful servants in the church, I am nearly 50! I think the questions Ortberg poses are good food for fodder throughout our lives. Am I the me I want to be -- at this point in my journey. Having two weeks of vacation helped immensely in helping to shake out the cobwebs and chew on these questions. I look forward hearing from you as you look at your journey. Are you on stuck or are you continuing to emerge into the person God has called you to be?
On the journey,
Alecia
I'm a grown man, I thought. I do not know how many years of life are before me. I cannot wait anymore. When I was going to school, I was preoccupied with good grades or getting cute girls to like me. As the years went by, I became preoccupied with work and my circumstances because I thought they would make me feel alive. I can't wait anymore to be that man, I thought.
I realized this then, and I know it now: I want that life more than I want anything else. Not because I think I'm supposed to, not because it says somewhere that you should. I want it. There is a me I want to be.
As I am being reminded periodically by faithful servants in the church, I am nearly 50! I think the questions Ortberg poses are good food for fodder throughout our lives. Am I the me I want to be -- at this point in my journey. Having two weeks of vacation helped immensely in helping to shake out the cobwebs and chew on these questions. I look forward hearing from you as you look at your journey. Are you on stuck or are you continuing to emerge into the person God has called you to be?
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, June 28, 2010
Renewal
My family and I are off to see Samantha in Japan. I won't be blogging for a couple of weeks.
Grace and Peace,
Alecia
Grace and Peace,
Alecia
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Saying Goodbye
In the past couple of weeks we have said goodbye to two amazing individuals: Andy Plank and LaVerne Pennington. Both men lived lives filled with integrity, passion and love. Their love for family was exemplary. Through the laughter and tears of story telling with family and friends, it was obvious the feeling was mutual. Each left a legacy of choosing life in the face of adversities and setbacks. I felt privileged to know both of them.
I am reminded to re-look at my own mission statement. Am I living the way I said I wanted to live? Am I serving God with all my heart, mind, soul and strength? Where am I settling? Where do I allow fear to rule over trusting God? Thoughts to ponder.
On the journey,
Alecia
I am reminded to re-look at my own mission statement. Am I living the way I said I wanted to live? Am I serving God with all my heart, mind, soul and strength? Where am I settling? Where do I allow fear to rule over trusting God? Thoughts to ponder.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, June 14, 2010
Retreating
This morning it was delightful to have the Bucket List Monday morning coffee group come to the house for lunch. Bob Dunn did a great job grilling steaks! It is always wonderful to enjoy the fellowship of this group.
I find it sad that 25% of Americans are counting on the lottery to take care of them in retirement. Rather than discovering God's purpose for us in our workplaces, for some it is easier to contemplate a life of ease without work. Each of us has a purpose given to us by God. We have the opportunity to have a higher calling of a vocation, rather than simply putting in hours at our workplace. Whether we work at a Casey's or serve as a CEO, we have a purpose to fulfill. When we don't embrace our ministry at the workplace, we miss being God's hands and feet.
I love to hear the stories from people within the church talking about their ministries outside the church walls. The stories are filled with redemption, mercy and grace. Relying on the lotto is crazy, but living out God's purpose is life-altering. Let me know if you have a story to share.
On the journey,
Alecia
I find it sad that 25% of Americans are counting on the lottery to take care of them in retirement. Rather than discovering God's purpose for us in our workplaces, for some it is easier to contemplate a life of ease without work. Each of us has a purpose given to us by God. We have the opportunity to have a higher calling of a vocation, rather than simply putting in hours at our workplace. Whether we work at a Casey's or serve as a CEO, we have a purpose to fulfill. When we don't embrace our ministry at the workplace, we miss being God's hands and feet.
I love to hear the stories from people within the church talking about their ministries outside the church walls. The stories are filled with redemption, mercy and grace. Relying on the lotto is crazy, but living out God's purpose is life-altering. Let me know if you have a story to share.
On the journey,
Alecia
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Lacking A Bit
I am lacking a bit when it comes to the consistency of my blogging. I will endeavor to do better.
Annual Conference concluded yesterday in a new location, Des Moines. I am grateful to all of the people that work on the legislation so it is ready to discuss in Conference. While I think it is important to think theologically upon these matters and in the larger setting, I am truly thankful for the brothers and sisters in Christ that set fingers to keyboard.
A possible change that perhaps was not evident on the surface deals with the Wesley Foundations on four campuses: U of I, ISU, UNI and Drake. With a $900,000 budget at stake for the campus ministries, the door was opened for the Wesley Foundations to not be fully funded. Like area churches, the AC must work to balance its budget too. Hard decisions. This will be something to follow for those with college students.
With limited debate, immigration reform was discussed. As a people who proclaim radical hospitality from the Old Testament forward, we struggled to hear one another at times.
Coming soon -- a photo organizational chart.
On the journey,
Alecia
Annual Conference concluded yesterday in a new location, Des Moines. I am grateful to all of the people that work on the legislation so it is ready to discuss in Conference. While I think it is important to think theologically upon these matters and in the larger setting, I am truly thankful for the brothers and sisters in Christ that set fingers to keyboard.
A possible change that perhaps was not evident on the surface deals with the Wesley Foundations on four campuses: U of I, ISU, UNI and Drake. With a $900,000 budget at stake for the campus ministries, the door was opened for the Wesley Foundations to not be fully funded. Like area churches, the AC must work to balance its budget too. Hard decisions. This will be something to follow for those with college students.
With limited debate, immigration reform was discussed. As a people who proclaim radical hospitality from the Old Testament forward, we struggled to hear one another at times.
Coming soon -- a photo organizational chart.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The Dalai Lama
Last week had the wonderful opportunity to hear the Dalai Lama speak at the University of Northern Iowa. I am not sure what I was expecting, but I received more than I hoped for during the time. As I listened to him speak about education and peace, I was drawn to his humble nature. It was clear the Dalai Lama understood he was on a spiritual pathway. Particularly when he was part of a larger panel discussion, the Dalai Lama chose to end his thoughts with the phrase, "And these are just my views." He was self-deprecating in his humor. I laughed, I cried, I was humbled and I was inspired.
I have had several folks ask me about my thoughts on a previous sermon in the series we are currently in at the moment. In the sermon on intimacy, we looked at those patterns we have that destroy it, including escalation. The questions asked for my thoughts on fighting patterns that include inappropriate language. Anytime one party or the other in a relationship moves to using volitale language or swear words, the opportunity to hear God in the midst diminishes. Swearing is the lazy person's attempt to state what is happening within themselves. Rather than taking the time to use appropriate language to describe thoughts, feelings and actions, swearing is the shortcut. It never leads to good discussion. Inappropriate language is disrespectful to both parties.
Thank you to those of you that reminded me you missed my blog yesterday! I will endeavor to keep my Monday commitment.
On the journey,
Alecia
I have had several folks ask me about my thoughts on a previous sermon in the series we are currently in at the moment. In the sermon on intimacy, we looked at those patterns we have that destroy it, including escalation. The questions asked for my thoughts on fighting patterns that include inappropriate language. Anytime one party or the other in a relationship moves to using volitale language or swear words, the opportunity to hear God in the midst diminishes. Swearing is the lazy person's attempt to state what is happening within themselves. Rather than taking the time to use appropriate language to describe thoughts, feelings and actions, swearing is the shortcut. It never leads to good discussion. Inappropriate language is disrespectful to both parties.
Thank you to those of you that reminded me you missed my blog yesterday! I will endeavor to keep my Monday commitment.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, May 17, 2010
Education and Peace
On May 18th I have the opportunity to hear the Dalai Lama along with my family. I am looking forward to hearing one of his talks on education and peace. I'll share what I have learned with the church body next week.
It's easy to talk about peace, but I've found it much more difficult to live it out on an everyday basis. My interactions with people have the opportunity to bless them or to curse them. When I am centered I can serve as a conduit for God's Spirit to work through me. Reading about peace and living it are two different things.
It's easy to talk about peace, but I've found it much more difficult to live it out on an everyday basis. My interactions with people have the opportunity to bless them or to curse them. When I am centered I can serve as a conduit for God's Spirit to work through me. Reading about peace and living it are two different things.
Monday, May 3, 2010
Happily Ever After
On Sunday morning, we talked about the four stages of deterioration in relationships-- primarily in marriage. Several of you asked for the list again. They are:
1. Romance -- Happily Ever After is your mantra.
2. Reality Check-- The phase whereby the cracks in the relationship begin to emerge.
3. Reaction-- Passive aggressive actions begin to enter the relationship.
4. Rebellion-- Actions lead to breakdown, whereby the relationship ends.
Breakthrough is the alternative. Re-read the Genesis 2 account in order to have a greater understanding of how God views marriage. God desires that couples have a spiritual relationship and companionship. We are far from the ideal, yet God has given us tools. For relationships to thrive, there are three critical aspects:
An exclusive commitment to one another,
Deep and vulnerable sharing, and
Spiritual connection with God.
Not all marriages make it, yet God calls us to the ideal when possible. Some marriages cannot make it, because of abuse, adultery, unaddressed addictions, and the list goes on. Perhaps a fourth critical aspect should be added: a supportive Christian community. I know for Doug and I Christian community is key for us as well.
Food for thought.
See you on the journey,
Alecia
1. Romance -- Happily Ever After is your mantra.
2. Reality Check-- The phase whereby the cracks in the relationship begin to emerge.
3. Reaction-- Passive aggressive actions begin to enter the relationship.
4. Rebellion-- Actions lead to breakdown, whereby the relationship ends.
Breakthrough is the alternative. Re-read the Genesis 2 account in order to have a greater understanding of how God views marriage. God desires that couples have a spiritual relationship and companionship. We are far from the ideal, yet God has given us tools. For relationships to thrive, there are three critical aspects:
An exclusive commitment to one another,
Deep and vulnerable sharing, and
Spiritual connection with God.
Not all marriages make it, yet God calls us to the ideal when possible. Some marriages cannot make it, because of abuse, adultery, unaddressed addictions, and the list goes on. Perhaps a fourth critical aspect should be added: a supportive Christian community. I know for Doug and I Christian community is key for us as well.
Food for thought.
See you on the journey,
Alecia
Monday, April 26, 2010
New Creation
Today became a celebration of creation. A long anticipated kid was born -- the four legged kind. While we have two other nannies ready to deliver in the next week or so, this pregnancy turned out to be a difficult one for the mother. In the latter stages of the pregnancy, the nanny goat could not utilize one of her hind legs. The last couple of weeks were heart wrenching watching her slowly make her way around the pasture. This morning a little female goat was born. The baby is doing well. Mom is still moving slowly. I will attempt to become more adept at the blog and actually add a photo of her next week.
The celebration continued with the Bucket List Coffee group heading to Kalona for a day of cinnamon rolls, a plethora of plants and lunch at the local restaurant. It was a marvelous day to be out searching for flowers, shrubs and hanging baskets.
I have received a number of verbal responses concerning last week's sermon. Most came from couples practicing caressing touch: hand holding, hugging, a squeeze of the arm. It is amazing how paying attention to this aspect of our lives pays such big dividends in our relationships.
Continuing on the journey,
Alecia
The celebration continued with the Bucket List Coffee group heading to Kalona for a day of cinnamon rolls, a plethora of plants and lunch at the local restaurant. It was a marvelous day to be out searching for flowers, shrubs and hanging baskets.
I have received a number of verbal responses concerning last week's sermon. Most came from couples practicing caressing touch: hand holding, hugging, a squeeze of the arm. It is amazing how paying attention to this aspect of our lives pays such big dividends in our relationships.
Continuing on the journey,
Alecia
Monday, April 19, 2010
What Did You Say?
This morning I was walking through the entryway in our church. I said, "Hi," to a child putting away her book bag in the appropriate bin. I started a conversation.... she wanted to continue it. Actually I wasn't starting a conversation in my mind. I was simply saying hello to another person. It is like when we ask loved ones and strangers the same question, "How are you?" The socially accepted response is, "Fine thank you." Periodically someone breeches the politically correct response and shares honestly and openly.
I have had a number of responses to yesterday's sermon on Highly Effective Dating Habits. Most comments centered on my illustration about how often we employ inactive listening with our spouses, children and friends. It is easy to respond at the periodic pauses of some else's soliloquy with responses of "mmm", "right", "yes".
Today I got to practice what I preached. This child engaged me in a conversatation. I stopped what I was doing and turned around and actively listened. She had a story she wanted to tell. I needed to be taught.
On the journey,
Alecia
I have had a number of responses to yesterday's sermon on Highly Effective Dating Habits. Most comments centered on my illustration about how often we employ inactive listening with our spouses, children and friends. It is easy to respond at the periodic pauses of some else's soliloquy with responses of "mmm", "right", "yes".
Today I got to practice what I preached. This child engaged me in a conversatation. I stopped what I was doing and turned around and actively listened. She had a story she wanted to tell. I needed to be taught.
On the journey,
Alecia
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Getting Ready
Hearing the vision read responsively on Sunday filled my heart with great joy. God is sending a fresh wind of fire of the Holy Spirit at the church. It was heartening to see the ministry board in the entryway begin to fill up with expressions , of ministries lived out daily was wonderful. Having someone in the congregation be so moved by the Spirit, that she began writing a new ministry plan during service for a much unders-served part of our population. In case you are wondering, that is her story to tell! She will be up front soon with her testimony. God's moving within our church and our broader community. How exciting to be part of the congregation at this time.
On another note, I am in the process of implementing the first stages of a disaster preparedness plan within the East Central district. Clergy throughout our district are invited to attend one of six sub-district groups taking place over the next six weeks. They will hear an overview, as well as receive a packet of information... and yes, forms to be completed. On June 12th from 9-1, the District Preparedness team has asked all of our district churches to send 1-2 representatives to a UMCOR workshop titled, Connecting Neighbors. We will collect the forms to help organize a more unified response when disaster strikes. Each church has unique gifts, equipment and laity that can get mobilized quickly when we do our prep work. If you are interested in serving on this team, please contact the church office. I'm excited about what God is doing in our midst.
What a great day!
Peace,
Alecia
On another note, I am in the process of implementing the first stages of a disaster preparedness plan within the East Central district. Clergy throughout our district are invited to attend one of six sub-district groups taking place over the next six weeks. They will hear an overview, as well as receive a packet of information... and yes, forms to be completed. On June 12th from 9-1, the District Preparedness team has asked all of our district churches to send 1-2 representatives to a UMCOR workshop titled, Connecting Neighbors. We will collect the forms to help organize a more unified response when disaster strikes. Each church has unique gifts, equipment and laity that can get mobilized quickly when we do our prep work. If you are interested in serving on this team, please contact the church office. I'm excited about what God is doing in our midst.
What a great day!
Peace,
Alecia
Monday, April 5, 2010
Resurrection Hope
I love Easter at our church! From the dawn breaking over the smoky fire to the ringing of the church bell announcing, Christ is Risen. I heartily agreed with Todd Hilmer's joy that the church was humming with energy. I saw the servant hearts of members working hard to find and st up every seat available. I'm not sure I even said Happy Easter to Andrew Walker prior to askng him to help set up more seats.
The Holy Spirit moved throughout the morning. I am grateful to belong to this community of believers. God is good.
The Holy Spirit moved throughout the morning. I am grateful to belong to this community of believers. God is good.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Discussing Easter
I have often wondered about the discussion within the Trinity as they hatched this plan that would one day play out in Jesus on the cross. How did the discussion of costliness measure up to the realities of walking the rocky pathway to the cross with the jeering crowds? How did God watch his Son die, even with the knowledge of resurrection power? How did the Spirit hover without interfering in the chaos of the week? Is what the Trinity anticipated?
These questions haunt me each Lenten season as I cannot begin to fathom the grace of God. God's grace changes everything. Even our ability to respond to grace is God-given. I feel compelled during Holy Week to immerse myself in the Gospels in order to have a clearer understanding of the sacrifice.
Thank You, Lord, for the staggering sacrifice You made to and through the cross. This week help me to extend Your grace to those with whom I come in contact. Thank You for a grace which seeks to restore this world to all it's meant to be. Help me to listen closely to You this week in order to offer Your mercy to a hurting world, Your justice to the oppressed around and Your kindness to all I encounter. Amen.
On the journey,
Alecia
These questions haunt me each Lenten season as I cannot begin to fathom the grace of God. God's grace changes everything. Even our ability to respond to grace is God-given. I feel compelled during Holy Week to immerse myself in the Gospels in order to have a clearer understanding of the sacrifice.
Thank You, Lord, for the staggering sacrifice You made to and through the cross. This week help me to extend Your grace to those with whom I come in contact. Thank You for a grace which seeks to restore this world to all it's meant to be. Help me to listen closely to You this week in order to offer Your mercy to a hurting world, Your justice to the oppressed around and Your kindness to all I encounter. Amen.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, March 22, 2010
The Apron and the Towel
Many of you commented yesterday after the sermon about the mental image of my mother wearing her apron with a towel tucked into the waistband. The image seemed to resonate with the understanding of our call to take up the towel in serving one another. There is something beautiful about my mother being comfortable in her skin. She was like the Biblical character Martha in the best sense of the word. The towel wasn't forced upon her. She chose to add it to her many, many colorful (and flamboyant) aprons.
Others expressed how difficult it was to feel that bearing the towel was unappreciated by those that you loved the most. There was a lot of pain expressed when the towel seemed forced rather than picked up out of love. Sometimes our ideas of servanthood are skewed because our image of God is distorted.
When I think of the cross, it is easy to see Jesus as the bridge between humankind and God-- a substitutionary sacrifice. If we are honest, we often add to the last sentence -- to appease an angry God. I think of the work of the cross as the bridge, not appeasing the angry God-- but a bridge that helps our hearts to be open the grace of God. It's our hearts that need to be changed, not God's. When Jesus picked up the towel, he did it out of love, pure unadulterated love.
On the journey,
Alecia
Others expressed how difficult it was to feel that bearing the towel was unappreciated by those that you loved the most. There was a lot of pain expressed when the towel seemed forced rather than picked up out of love. Sometimes our ideas of servanthood are skewed because our image of God is distorted.
When I think of the cross, it is easy to see Jesus as the bridge between humankind and God-- a substitutionary sacrifice. If we are honest, we often add to the last sentence -- to appease an angry God. I think of the work of the cross as the bridge, not appeasing the angry God-- but a bridge that helps our hearts to be open the grace of God. It's our hearts that need to be changed, not God's. When Jesus picked up the towel, he did it out of love, pure unadulterated love.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, March 15, 2010
New Eyes
My family and I were driving through western Wisconsin yesterday. As spring emerges, I am constantly amazed at the natural beauty of creation. Thank you Lord for spinning into existence this blue and green globe.
I am out of the state through Wednesday.
On the journey,
Alecia
I am out of the state through Wednesday.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Humbleness
I was doing so well. I mean... I gave up chocolate. I have exercised regularly since Ash Wednesday. My new experiment in blogging began on Mondays during Lent. Here I was sailing through Lent when I de-constructed yesterday.
As you may have noticed, my Monday blog is posted on Tuesday. It wasn't that I forgot to blog; rather, I couldn't for the life of me remember the process needed to add a new one in the time alloted before the dash to the next thing. If I am going to confess... I might as well come clean. Last night driving home from a track meet in Waverly I steered my car into the drive through lane at McDonald's. Ready to place my order of sweet tea, I made a quick impulse buy instead of an iced mocha latte. Mocha translates to chocolate, which I didn't even think about until after half was consumed.
Study leave may have involved a great deal of theological reading on the varied Methodist doctrines, but it left little room for the quiet reflections of Lent. I waded through the big three of salvation, justification and sanctification, but neglected the Lenten practices:
As you may have noticed, my Monday blog is posted on Tuesday. It wasn't that I forgot to blog; rather, I couldn't for the life of me remember the process needed to add a new one in the time alloted before the dash to the next thing. If I am going to confess... I might as well come clean. Last night driving home from a track meet in Waverly I steered my car into the drive through lane at McDonald's. Ready to place my order of sweet tea, I made a quick impulse buy instead of an iced mocha latte. Mocha translates to chocolate, which I didn't even think about until after half was consumed.
Study leave may have involved a great deal of theological reading on the varied Methodist doctrines, but it left little room for the quiet reflections of Lent. I waded through the big three of salvation, justification and sanctification, but neglected the Lenten practices:
- Confession, whereby we release those stresses and things that keep us from God,
- Reception of a "word for our lives from the Word of Life," and
- Return to the world as the body of Christ.
I've enjoyed The Awkward Season by Pam Hawkins for reminded me of the important practices of Lent. I am in awe of the mystery of God's grace as I know I stand in great need.
I leave you with another prayer of Hawkins:
Sometimes, O God, my thirst for you
is pushed aside, ignored,
or simply quenched by something 0ther--
something more reasonable,
something more popular-- than you.
But you never go away,
never stop,
never leave the depths of me.
Like an underground spring,
you are fresh and free,
breaking through.
Help me prepare a place for you in the caverns of my soul.
Amen.
On the journey,Alecia
Monday, March 1, 2010
Logarithms
Around the library table on Sunday night sat eight tutors ready to tackle homework questions. Social Science—check. Language arts—check. Elementary math—check. Science—check. The only subject this hearty group feared was advanced math. Surely advanced math would not be required. All that changed when a young woman came in with questions about logarithms. The first student with the first question and it was all about logarithms.
Lent is a lot like logarithms. Stay with me as there truly is a cohesive thread here. We don’t understand the great mysteries of the claims of Jesus, the work of the cross, resurrection. After Sunday’s sermon, Paul McRoberts poised another interesting take on the claims that Jesus made. In referencing the John 14:6 passage, Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father but by Me, Paul posed another take for me about these words of Jesus. He said it more eloquently, but the gist of what he said has caused me to ponder the words. Believing that Jesus made the statement in love, Paul said it would be arrogant for us to assume that we understood all of the ways that Jesus manifests Himself to people.
As he spoke the words, it reminded me of being in San Lucas, Guatemala in 2005. I remember being in the simple two room home of one of the Mayan families. On their altar the Mayan statues of their faith were intermingled with the Holy Family and a crucifix. I remember being touched how these brother and sisters in the mountains of Guatemala were blessed by God’s grace. I don’t understand all of the mysteries of Lent, but I could see a people of faith in front of my eyes.
Undaunted before the logarithms, the tutor worked hard to understand the mysteries while working alongside the student.
On the journey,
Alecia
Lent is a lot like logarithms. Stay with me as there truly is a cohesive thread here. We don’t understand the great mysteries of the claims of Jesus, the work of the cross, resurrection. After Sunday’s sermon, Paul McRoberts poised another interesting take on the claims that Jesus made. In referencing the John 14:6 passage, Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father but by Me, Paul posed another take for me about these words of Jesus. He said it more eloquently, but the gist of what he said has caused me to ponder the words. Believing that Jesus made the statement in love, Paul said it would be arrogant for us to assume that we understood all of the ways that Jesus manifests Himself to people.
As he spoke the words, it reminded me of being in San Lucas, Guatemala in 2005. I remember being in the simple two room home of one of the Mayan families. On their altar the Mayan statues of their faith were intermingled with the Holy Family and a crucifix. I remember being touched how these brother and sisters in the mountains of Guatemala were blessed by God’s grace. I don’t understand all of the mysteries of Lent, but I could see a people of faith in front of my eyes.
Undaunted before the logarithms, the tutor worked hard to understand the mysteries while working alongside the student.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, February 22, 2010
Our Integrity for Seven Pizzas
In worship yesterday, I told of a recent email I received from a stranger. He was angered by a situation he watched unfold before him at a Pizza Hut. From his vantage point in the pick-up line, he watched a young clerk deal with an United Methodist youth minister from a corridor area church. As the Pizza hut employee placed the seven Mamma Mia pies on the counter, the man watched as the youth director handed the check to the clerk. The youth director quickly picked up the pizzas and pointed to a sign that said "if we don't show you our pizza, it's free." The youth director snatched the check out of the hands and left. I called Pizza Hut to confirm the story. The story was true. The employee said, "He didn't give me a chance to show the pizzas. He (the youth minister) just picked them up off the shelf." The story made the rounds through the restaurant.
I don't tell the story to skewer the youth director from another church. Failings happen. The stranger's email was forwarded to the church. I hope he does the right thing. The reason I told the story was to remind us how our actions speak louder than any sermon ever preached. It is easy to sell our integrity, our beliefs, our Christ for seven pizza pies. When we fail to understand our critical role as ministers in whatever situation we find ourselves in today, then we have great potential to wreak havoc with our witness.
You have taken Jesus to work today, to the gym, to school. What's your integrity going for these days? It's something I am pondering.
As we are in Lent, I leave you with this prayer of confession from the book, The Awkward Season by Pamela Hawkins.
I don't tell the story to skewer the youth director from another church. Failings happen. The stranger's email was forwarded to the church. I hope he does the right thing. The reason I told the story was to remind us how our actions speak louder than any sermon ever preached. It is easy to sell our integrity, our beliefs, our Christ for seven pizza pies. When we fail to understand our critical role as ministers in whatever situation we find ourselves in today, then we have great potential to wreak havoc with our witness.
You have taken Jesus to work today, to the gym, to school. What's your integrity going for these days? It's something I am pondering.
As we are in Lent, I leave you with this prayer of confession from the book, The Awkward Season by Pamela Hawkins.
Sometimes, O God, my thirst for you
is pushed aside, ignored,
or simply quenched by something other--something more reasonable,
something more popular than you.
But you never go away,
never stop,
never leave the depths of me.
Like an underground spring,
you are fresh and free,
breaking through.
Help me prepare a place for you in the caverns of my soul.
Amen.
By the way... the bill to Pizza Hut (if it has not already been paid) will be taken care of by this church today, along with a generous tip thanks to several of you.
On the journey,
Alecia
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
A Chocolate for the Road
I need the Lenten journey this year. I haven't needed one so desperately for quite awhile. I find myself craving the quiet, the solitude, the Holy. I must be walking too close to the edge on this spiritual road.
Pamela C. Hawkins in The Awkward Season, writes this Ash Wednesday prayer of confession:
Pamela C. Hawkins in The Awkward Season, writes this Ash Wednesday prayer of confession:
O God, who makes all things new,
new stars, new dust, new life;
take my heart,
every hardened edge and measured beat,
and create something new in me.
I need your newness, God,
the rough parts of me made smooth;
the stagnant, stirred;
the stuck, freed;
the unkind, forgiven.
And then, by the power of your Spirit,
I need to be turned toward Love again.
Amen
The Awkward Season in its simplicity is a good companion guide for me. I don't know where your journey will take you during Lent. Whatever you do, pursue it passionately. Hunger after God. At 7 pm tonight, I'll have one more chocolate for the road, as this pilgrimage begins.
On the journey,
Alecia
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