The gift of the Advent Calendar has proven to be very life-giving. Every day I open a new door and I receive a small gift. I have been absolutely delighted with awaiting each new day. I can't help but wonder if in some small way we are to approach the Advent season with a sense of awe and excitement. Even my husband asks, "What's behind door number 7?" Something so simple yet powerful by how it directs my thoughts to God. While the truffle behind door number 4 was scrumptious, it was the shift in my starting my day with an expectancy that comes with the opening of a new door. What new doors will I encounter in my journey to Jesus?
I have reflected on the questions Mike Slaughter poses in his book, Christmas is Not Your Birthday. I hope they stir up within you the longing for this Christmas to reflect Christ:
1. What is your vision of a perfect Christmas? What imperfect circumstances will you face this year that will challenge your ability to celebrate Christmas fully?
2. How do you think Mary felt in the months and days leading up to Jesus' birth? How does her experience of the first Christmas influence the way you approach the holiday season?
3. How can you celebrate Jesus in the midst of your struggles? How can God use your struggles to help others in Christmas?
I love question number 2. We are far, far away from her experiences of joy, fear, goodness, ridicule and wonder. It's a good question to re-ground us in this most holy season.
Jacqueline Nelson passed on a wonderful website for those of you looking to give a gift with on-going meaning. Look at this website: www.kiva.org. I'm excited to give my children a gift from this website.
On the journey,
Alecia
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
The Church And Sandusky
I read an article online today that I found thought-provoking. The article is about Jerry Sandusky and the local church he attends, St. Paul's United Methodist in College Town, Pennsylvania. You might recall that Sandusky is the former Penn State assistant coach, who is accused of molesting eight boys. Sandusky and his wife have faithfully attended the United Methodist Church for 30 years.
http://www.hlntv.com/article/2011/11/23/penn-state-scandal-jerry-sandusky-church?tr=y&auid=9926075
I invite you to read the article and respond if you like.
On the journey,
Alecia
http://www.hlntv.com/article/2011/11/23/penn-state-scandal-jerry-sandusky-church?tr=y&auid=9926075
I invite you to read the article and respond if you like.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, November 28, 2011
Jesus Santa Theology
The whole morphing of Jesus and Santa has and continues to be a dilema for me. I know the right words. I know what I believe in my heart, yet I still struggle. I am a product of my generation-- caught in a consumeristic holiday faith. I want the whole ball of wax from the decorated house, the Christmas cookies baking, the gatherings, everything. Trying to balance it doesn't always work. I don't think Jesus is anti enjoying the season, but I do think I get out of balance quickly.
If you were or even if you weren't, here are questions to reflect on this week. They are out of the book, Christmas is Not Your Birthday by Mike Slaughter.
1. How do you picture God? Does this image have more in common with Santa Claus or with Jesus?
2. Think about your family's Christmas traditions. How many of them focus on your own comfort and pleasure? What new traditions can you plan that focus more on presence than presents?
3. What ideas do you have that could be seeds for a mission miracle? What group are you connected to or who are some other people that could help to make it happen.
Over Thanksgiving we deliberately spent a lot more time in the presence of one another rather than the buying of presents. That felt good. I miss the days of reading nightly to the kids. We had Christmas classics that we read at bedtime year after year. What about you?
I put my Advent Wreath together last night. It's not the prettiest one I have had but it will serve the purpose to daily re-center me for the next four weeks. Doug and I plan to light it when we gather around the table at night. I want to invite you to add one in your house. Deliberate small choices make a huge difference-- at least for me.
Journey with me because I struggle with this dilema.
On the journey,
Alecia
If you were or even if you weren't, here are questions to reflect on this week. They are out of the book, Christmas is Not Your Birthday by Mike Slaughter.
1. How do you picture God? Does this image have more in common with Santa Claus or with Jesus?
2. Think about your family's Christmas traditions. How many of them focus on your own comfort and pleasure? What new traditions can you plan that focus more on presence than presents?
3. What ideas do you have that could be seeds for a mission miracle? What group are you connected to or who are some other people that could help to make it happen.
Over Thanksgiving we deliberately spent a lot more time in the presence of one another rather than the buying of presents. That felt good. I miss the days of reading nightly to the kids. We had Christmas classics that we read at bedtime year after year. What about you?
I put my Advent Wreath together last night. It's not the prettiest one I have had but it will serve the purpose to daily re-center me for the next four weeks. Doug and I plan to light it when we gather around the table at night. I want to invite you to add one in your house. Deliberate small choices make a huge difference-- at least for me.
Journey with me because I struggle with this dilema.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, November 21, 2011
New Eyes to See
There is a new Welcome Teaming forming. It's a great group of folks taking on the challenge to help new people make the leap from first time attender to connections within the church. I liked the Mike Slaughter's thoughts on this topic:
What we do and say matters when people walk through the doors for the first time. Try an experiment the next time you walk through our doors on a Sunday morning. See if you can view the experience with new eyes. Sit in a new place. Are you greeted by multiple people? Do you extend out a hand to a new person struggling to understand our worship order? What instructions are clear or which ones are left unspoken?
Why does this matter? People have an innate need to have a relationship with the Holy One. Considering that the Kingdom of God suggests that we are part of making the invisible grace of God visible, it matters a great deal. Just something to ponder.
On the journey,
Alecia
If someone from the neighborhood walked in the back of the church, would this attract him or her to Jesus? Traditions make us feel warm about our history, but do nothing for the person who did not grow up within the tradition. Every action and tradition should be questioned, tested, and abandoned if it does not bring the unfamiliar person from the community to Christ--old songs, worship forms, communication styles, vocabulary, dress, activites--everything!
What we do and say matters when people walk through the doors for the first time. Try an experiment the next time you walk through our doors on a Sunday morning. See if you can view the experience with new eyes. Sit in a new place. Are you greeted by multiple people? Do you extend out a hand to a new person struggling to understand our worship order? What instructions are clear or which ones are left unspoken?
Why does this matter? People have an innate need to have a relationship with the Holy One. Considering that the Kingdom of God suggests that we are part of making the invisible grace of God visible, it matters a great deal. Just something to ponder.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, November 14, 2011
Gratitude
After spending a week in Estes Park, Colorado, I couldn't help but feel grateful for all that God is doing in the world around us. Estes Park without the overwhelming crush of tourists is a place filled with herds of animals, brilliant colors, trails and solitude. It was amazing.
We went on a night hike, without flashlights, with one of the park interpreters during the full moon. After 45 minutes, our eyes had adjusted to the dark. There was a depth to the grey scale in the meadow in Moraine Basin I had not imagined. I saw things-- creatures, stars, paths and trails -- not always visible during the day. I encountered ice and deep badger holes. It had its moments to be sure -- hiking at night. The wind was wild.
I wonder what I miss out on because I don't always allow my eyes to fully adjust to God's presence in the world. Who or what don't I see when I stay in my comfort zone on the safe trails during the daylight in summer. There is a wildness about God that I am not always comfortable confronting. When I do, I stand amazed.
On the journey,
Alecia
We went on a night hike, without flashlights, with one of the park interpreters during the full moon. After 45 minutes, our eyes had adjusted to the dark. There was a depth to the grey scale in the meadow in Moraine Basin I had not imagined. I saw things-- creatures, stars, paths and trails -- not always visible during the day. I encountered ice and deep badger holes. It had its moments to be sure -- hiking at night. The wind was wild.
I wonder what I miss out on because I don't always allow my eyes to fully adjust to God's presence in the world. Who or what don't I see when I stay in my comfort zone on the safe trails during the daylight in summer. There is a wildness about God that I am not always comfortable confronting. When I do, I stand amazed.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, October 17, 2011
3 Hours To Make a Difference
How cool to belong to a church that makes Three Hours to Make a Difference a priority. Over 90 participants from three churches. It was wonderful to see the churches working together, with teams comprised of members from First United Methodist, Grace Community and St. Thomas More. Jesus calls us to be the body of Christ. It seems to me I saw Jesus working throughout the city this week-end!
On the journey,
Alecia
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Toxic Relationships
It appears that Sunday's sermon is stirring up conversations about toxic relationships. For those of you not in worship, we are continuing in our sermon series in Matthew 10, where Jesus calls his disciples into a relationship and then sends them out on mission. The primary passages were: Matthew 10:11-15, and 10:40-42. When a person is made right before God through Jesus Christ, he/she is called a righteous person. In the text Jesus talks about righteous people and worthy people. Like righteous folks, worthy people are hospitable, open, respectful and view the world as larger than themselves. Worthy people simply do not have the relationship with God. Jesus calls us to be in partnership with and in mission to worthy individuals. Check out verses 40-42 to see how God responds to the worthy person. Jesus does give the warning about staying away from toxic people.
Toxic individuals hinder our relationship with God. If we are around negative friends, then we tend to become negative. If we grew up in a house filled with shame and secrets, we keep parts of our lives hidden from God's healing. If we never heard how much God loves us, then our identity is found in whatever idol presents itself-- work, kids, house, relationships, promotion.
Accordingly this passage seeks to pull from within us those areas which are toxic. When do I laugh at someone elses expense? When do I judge someone else, only to discover on closer examination that very characteristic within me? How often do I blame others because I simply can't cope with another failure?
Matthew's gospel is not for the faint of heart. Remember... this is the Gospel of Jesus. There is good news. I believe John the Baptist said it best: Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Repent. Confess the areas where toxicity resides in you. Let God's forgiveness and grace heal the broken heart.
On a side note. I got into a conversation about how this works in terms of political humor. The question was, "At what point do I become toxic in my humor?" A timely question. In the last election I felt very convicted in this area. I love a good political cartoon. They are concise and speak volumes through art. As I lifted the question to God I heard the following: Stay away from personal attacks against an individual. All people are my (God's) creation. Imagine if you were in that person's shoes. How would you feel if the personal attack was against you and your children heard it? Let that be your guide.
For me that has served as a guide in two ways. First a commitment to not participate or pass on personal attacks--funny or otherwise. Also I heard a call to speak up when someone is targeting a politician in such ways. I have to admit this has not always been very easy for me. I have had to work harder at understanding the issues rather than the soundbites.
On the journey,
Alecia
Toxic individuals hinder our relationship with God. If we are around negative friends, then we tend to become negative. If we grew up in a house filled with shame and secrets, we keep parts of our lives hidden from God's healing. If we never heard how much God loves us, then our identity is found in whatever idol presents itself-- work, kids, house, relationships, promotion.
Accordingly this passage seeks to pull from within us those areas which are toxic. When do I laugh at someone elses expense? When do I judge someone else, only to discover on closer examination that very characteristic within me? How often do I blame others because I simply can't cope with another failure?
Matthew's gospel is not for the faint of heart. Remember... this is the Gospel of Jesus. There is good news. I believe John the Baptist said it best: Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Repent. Confess the areas where toxicity resides in you. Let God's forgiveness and grace heal the broken heart.
On a side note. I got into a conversation about how this works in terms of political humor. The question was, "At what point do I become toxic in my humor?" A timely question. In the last election I felt very convicted in this area. I love a good political cartoon. They are concise and speak volumes through art. As I lifted the question to God I heard the following: Stay away from personal attacks against an individual. All people are my (God's) creation. Imagine if you were in that person's shoes. How would you feel if the personal attack was against you and your children heard it? Let that be your guide.
For me that has served as a guide in two ways. First a commitment to not participate or pass on personal attacks--funny or otherwise. Also I heard a call to speak up when someone is targeting a politician in such ways. I have to admit this has not always been very easy for me. I have had to work harder at understanding the issues rather than the soundbites.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, October 3, 2011
Which One First?
If our mission is found first in our relationship with Jesus, then how do we respond to the pervasive consumer culture? This culture of consumptions undermines our mission to live in such a way that the Kingdom of God is near. Our need for more-- more stuff, more money, more whatever-- eclipses that central relationship. How much personal time is spent in order to keep the present standard of living? We can't live spiritually and emotionally the way we would desire because of our need to work to make the payments.
In the sermon on Sunday, we talked about three action steps which help counter the consumeristic mindset we have adopted. Which action step is important for you to work with first:
* Cultivate a relationship with God. This would involve an actual relationship not simply knowledge of God.
* Spend time with people you love. This includes our families most certainly. It also includes developing a close-knit group of people that you are in a spiritual small group with regularly.
* Do things God calls you to do. Don't wait for Ministry Council to bless it. Pay attention to the people and situations that need your assistance. Take a spiritual gifts class to help better identify your passions.
I hope you spend time with one of the action steps this coming week. These three steps help us to live more fully as we engage life spiritually. If you are serious in moving deeper with God, this is a good way to start.
On the journey,
Alecia
In the sermon on Sunday, we talked about three action steps which help counter the consumeristic mindset we have adopted. Which action step is important for you to work with first:
* Cultivate a relationship with God. This would involve an actual relationship not simply knowledge of God.
* Spend time with people you love. This includes our families most certainly. It also includes developing a close-knit group of people that you are in a spiritual small group with regularly.
* Do things God calls you to do. Don't wait for Ministry Council to bless it. Pay attention to the people and situations that need your assistance. Take a spiritual gifts class to help better identify your passions.
I hope you spend time with one of the action steps this coming week. These three steps help us to live more fully as we engage life spiritually. If you are serious in moving deeper with God, this is a good way to start.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, September 26, 2011
Being Sent
Like last week, I seem to have too much sermon for the time. I came more prepared this past Sunday! I thought ahead as to what I would need to cut out, rather than simply letting the 8:00 AM service serve as a practice run. If you would like to go deeper, then continue reading.
It is easy to relegate the Old Testament to a secondary status. We like the action of the Gospels, the power of Jesus and the immediacy. Matthew 10 will not allow for such a simplistic view. Spend some time reading Isaiah 58. The Jewish people are enjoying a time of resurgence in worship and spiritual life. In Isaiah, the prophet questions how the relationship with others has a direct link with our intimacy with God. After reading the passage, how do your individual spiritual practices indicate your relationship with the Lord? Do you sense the Lord calling you to new practices?
Jesus as recorded in Matthew 10 calls us to a vital relationship first and foremost. Our practices and works are a by-product of that relationship.
On the Journey,
Aleciai
It is easy to relegate the Old Testament to a secondary status. We like the action of the Gospels, the power of Jesus and the immediacy. Matthew 10 will not allow for such a simplistic view. Spend some time reading Isaiah 58. The Jewish people are enjoying a time of resurgence in worship and spiritual life. In Isaiah, the prophet questions how the relationship with others has a direct link with our intimacy with God. After reading the passage, how do your individual spiritual practices indicate your relationship with the Lord? Do you sense the Lord calling you to new practices?
Jesus as recorded in Matthew 10 calls us to a vital relationship first and foremost. Our practices and works are a by-product of that relationship.
On the Journey,
Aleciai
Monday, September 19, 2011
And Now the Rest of the Story... um, Sermon
Sermons are like motion picture films in which a lot of deleted scenes end up on the cutting room floor! This previous Sunday a great deal ended up on the sanctuary floor. For those of you that enjoy digging deeper, chew on this for a few moments.
We are in the tenth chapter of Matthew which is Jesus' commissioning sermon. The section left out of the sermon dealt with God's faithfulness and apparent favor of one group. The troubling part of the text is in Matthew 10:5-6 where Jesus admonishes the apostles to go only to the "lost sheep" of Israel, not the Samaritans or the Gentiles. You might remember the troubling passage of the Syro-Phoenician women whom Jesus encounters (Mt. 15). The woman wants help for her daughter. Jesus replies he won't take food from the table and give it to the dogs. While Jesus ends up declaring this woman's faith great and heals her daughter, his mission at this point is still to the lost sheep of Israel. Jesus' mission expands in the Great Commission in Matthew 28 where he commands his disciple to go "unto the ends of the earth."
It is important to note that God keeps his commands. If we return to the OT book of Ezekiel, the 34th chapter, scripture tells us that God has once again heard the cries of the people now enslaved by the Babylonians. Not only has God heard, but is concerned. In the 11th verse God speaks to a specific time, culture and location in regards to the Good Shepherd. God provides for the people in a time of human trafficking, rape as used in warfare and genocide. Later in the passage one the Lord now describes the one shepherd as David. This is a reference to Jesus as found in the David line. God is making a promise or a covenant not just to the specific situation but to Israel that Jesus will be the one Shepherd. As you finish chapter 34 you will see the covenant with Israel that "You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture and I am your God, says the Lord God."
God always keeps his promises. It might not be in the time frame we would expect, but the covenants will be kept. Read Romans 11:25-29. Take a few moments and reflect on Paul's words concerning Israel. Think about the specific plan God has for the Jews. Think about the provisions made for us and finally how and when God plans to keep the covenant with Israel.
Jesus had a clear mission. That clarity allowed him to complete his work on earth. That mission continues now in you and in me. What is your mission?
On the journey,
Alecia
On the Journey,
We are in the tenth chapter of Matthew which is Jesus' commissioning sermon. The section left out of the sermon dealt with God's faithfulness and apparent favor of one group. The troubling part of the text is in Matthew 10:5-6 where Jesus admonishes the apostles to go only to the "lost sheep" of Israel, not the Samaritans or the Gentiles. You might remember the troubling passage of the Syro-Phoenician women whom Jesus encounters (Mt. 15). The woman wants help for her daughter. Jesus replies he won't take food from the table and give it to the dogs. While Jesus ends up declaring this woman's faith great and heals her daughter, his mission at this point is still to the lost sheep of Israel. Jesus' mission expands in the Great Commission in Matthew 28 where he commands his disciple to go "unto the ends of the earth."
It is important to note that God keeps his commands. If we return to the OT book of Ezekiel, the 34th chapter, scripture tells us that God has once again heard the cries of the people now enslaved by the Babylonians. Not only has God heard, but is concerned. In the 11th verse God speaks to a specific time, culture and location in regards to the Good Shepherd. God provides for the people in a time of human trafficking, rape as used in warfare and genocide. Later in the passage one the Lord now describes the one shepherd as David. This is a reference to Jesus as found in the David line. God is making a promise or a covenant not just to the specific situation but to Israel that Jesus will be the one Shepherd. As you finish chapter 34 you will see the covenant with Israel that "You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture and I am your God, says the Lord God."
God always keeps his promises. It might not be in the time frame we would expect, but the covenants will be kept. Read Romans 11:25-29. Take a few moments and reflect on Paul's words concerning Israel. Think about the specific plan God has for the Jews. Think about the provisions made for us and finally how and when God plans to keep the covenant with Israel.
Jesus had a clear mission. That clarity allowed him to complete his work on earth. That mission continues now in you and in me. What is your mission?
On the journey,
Alecia
On the Journey,
Monday, September 12, 2011
Caution: Spirit At Work
It seems anywhere you go on North Jones Boulevard one sees literal caution signs of people at work. At First UMC, the Spirit is at work. I was speaking with Rev. Mel Schlacter from Trinity Episcopal Church last night following the Sept. 11 service. I told him of the modern day Good Samaritan story I told in worship. As part of my reflections on September 11, I had prayed for Mychal Judge. Judge was the chaplain for the NYFD at that time. He rushed to Ground Zero and died while giving last rites. I heard multiple sermons at the time (2001) speak to the point that it sounded like God to have a priest welcoming people into heaven. On Saturday September 10th, I learned that Judge was gay. It reminded me of the story of the Good Samaritan, whereby God uses individuals in which the institutional church is still in debate.
As I passed this on to Mel. He said it correlated with the lectionary. After joking about my lack of use of the lectionary, he pointed out the passage yesterday was on forgiveness. Peter was asking Jesus how many times he must forgive an enemy. Jesus replied, "Seventy times seven." We are called to forgive.
The passage was part of the larger lectionary, which is a three year walk through the themes and primary passages of Scripture. Out of all the passages, this is the one that was for September 11. Not a coincidence -- simply the Spirit moving.
Peace,
Alecia
As I passed this on to Mel. He said it correlated with the lectionary. After joking about my lack of use of the lectionary, he pointed out the passage yesterday was on forgiveness. Peter was asking Jesus how many times he must forgive an enemy. Jesus replied, "Seventy times seven." We are called to forgive.
The passage was part of the larger lectionary, which is a three year walk through the themes and primary passages of Scripture. Out of all the passages, this is the one that was for September 11. Not a coincidence -- simply the Spirit moving.
Peace,
Alecia
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Odyssey
The spiritual life is first of all a life. It is not merely something to be known and studied. It is to be lived. Thomas Merton
"Alecia, how is it that my faith life feels non-existent? I don't experience or feel God in the ways you describe. What's wrong with me?" This question is posed to me on a regular basis. My answer is fairly consistent. As a church -- local and the larger one-- we have done a good job inviting people. We want our friends and family to be connected to God and to the church community that we love. We diligently get "them" and ourselves to church, but then what? We need to become disciples. I don't know abou you, but I want to live -- really live out my calling. Call me crazy, but that seems like a journey of a lifetime.
There is a glaring need within churches to grapple with Jesus' words to "make disciples." We walk through the threshhold and never move into the deeper relationship with the Beloved, the Holy One. Just how we make that move has perplexed a lot of folks that love God, but experience little beyond it in their daily lives.
In the next two months, I want to look at practical Christianity that deepens us inwardly, while calling us to mission. It is a journey we will take together in worship. If you join the small group, "Change the World" we will see similar themes as we seek to be more like Jesus.
See you Sunday
On the journey,
Alecia
"Alecia, how is it that my faith life feels non-existent? I don't experience or feel God in the ways you describe. What's wrong with me?" This question is posed to me on a regular basis. My answer is fairly consistent. As a church -- local and the larger one-- we have done a good job inviting people. We want our friends and family to be connected to God and to the church community that we love. We diligently get "them" and ourselves to church, but then what? We need to become disciples. I don't know abou you, but I want to live -- really live out my calling. Call me crazy, but that seems like a journey of a lifetime.
There is a glaring need within churches to grapple with Jesus' words to "make disciples." We walk through the threshhold and never move into the deeper relationship with the Beloved, the Holy One. Just how we make that move has perplexed a lot of folks that love God, but experience little beyond it in their daily lives.
In the next two months, I want to look at practical Christianity that deepens us inwardly, while calling us to mission. It is a journey we will take together in worship. If you join the small group, "Change the World" we will see similar themes as we seek to be more like Jesus.
See you Sunday
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Insightful Questions
On Sunday, July 3, we took a break from the current sermon series and had a question and answer time in lieu of the message. We did not get to all of the questions posed. Today I want to look at the following question:
How do we stay positive about Jesus when we see all that goes against his teachings going on around us?
What a great question. Undoubtedly we have to take our cue from Jesus. He entered the world in a time of war and famine. Slavery, prostitution, classism, sexism and racial cleansing were issues in his time. I see Jesus as portrayed in the Gospels as doing several key things:
* Time to pray -- Prayer was as essential for Jesus as breathing. It kept him focused and centered on living out the Kingdom of God on earth.
*Time in worship-- Throughout the Gospels, we see worship is key for Jesus to live out his personal mission.
*Time in a small group--Jesus chose 12 and ultimately 3 to share key moments. He had a small group. We see the three present during the particularly challenging times.
*Proactive Response -- Jesus decided to live out his mission regardless of a world that seemed out of control.
We know Jesus agonized and prayed for those who followed him. Read John 17 to get a good understanding of how Jesus felt. We know he wept at the death of his friend and over the city of Jerusalem as well.
In a world filled with harshness and violence, we would do well to utilize these same principles. When I get discouraged, I read the stories of Jesus in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. I have to remind myself that I am invovled in a greater story than simply my own.
On the journey,
Alecia
How do we stay positive about Jesus when we see all that goes against his teachings going on around us?
What a great question. Undoubtedly we have to take our cue from Jesus. He entered the world in a time of war and famine. Slavery, prostitution, classism, sexism and racial cleansing were issues in his time. I see Jesus as portrayed in the Gospels as doing several key things:
* Time to pray -- Prayer was as essential for Jesus as breathing. It kept him focused and centered on living out the Kingdom of God on earth.
*Time in worship-- Throughout the Gospels, we see worship is key for Jesus to live out his personal mission.
*Time in a small group--Jesus chose 12 and ultimately 3 to share key moments. He had a small group. We see the three present during the particularly challenging times.
*Proactive Response -- Jesus decided to live out his mission regardless of a world that seemed out of control.
We know Jesus agonized and prayed for those who followed him. Read John 17 to get a good understanding of how Jesus felt. We know he wept at the death of his friend and over the city of Jerusalem as well.
In a world filled with harshness and violence, we would do well to utilize these same principles. When I get discouraged, I read the stories of Jesus in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. I have to remind myself that I am invovled in a greater story than simply my own.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, June 20, 2011
Are We Clear?
I was reading Selections from Change the World by Mike Slaughter this morning. He speaks to the fact that the mandate for Jesus' followers is clear. He points to the Luke 4: 18-19 passage:
Slaughter writes, "The gospel is good news for the poor. If it is not working to benefit the poor and oppressed, then it is not the gospel." As I pondered this during a time of meditation, I reflected on how much more I need to shift my world view in order to encompass the whole of the scripture. Wherever you are this week, I hope you take time to stop and reflect on scripture. God still speaks powerfully through the written Word by the Spirit's leading.
On the journey,
Alecia
The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim
good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the
prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.
Slaughter writes, "The gospel is good news for the poor. If it is not working to benefit the poor and oppressed, then it is not the gospel." As I pondered this during a time of meditation, I reflected on how much more I need to shift my world view in order to encompass the whole of the scripture. Wherever you are this week, I hope you take time to stop and reflect on scripture. God still speaks powerfully through the written Word by the Spirit's leading.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Six Traits of a Healthy Family
We are beginning a new series: Family Re: Union. On Sunday we talked about the six traits of a healthy family. After reading through the list, spend time discussing with your family -- be it your spouse, children, parents, aunts, etc-- as to how well you live out these biblical traits. It was eye opening for our family.
1. Healthy families practice faith at home.
2. Healthy families demonstrate massive amounts of love.
3. Healthy families are intentional in creating family memories.
4. Healthy families celebrate the uniqueness of each individual.
5. Healthy families set boundaries for each other.
6. Healthy families have YOU.
Rate your responses as to how you are doing in each of the areas. The really cool thing is that you can get great results from simply doing any one of the areas!
Blessings.
On the journey,
Alecia
1. Healthy families practice faith at home.
2. Healthy families demonstrate massive amounts of love.
3. Healthy families are intentional in creating family memories.
4. Healthy families celebrate the uniqueness of each individual.
5. Healthy families set boundaries for each other.
6. Healthy families have YOU.
Rate your responses as to how you are doing in each of the areas. The really cool thing is that you can get great results from simply doing any one of the areas!
Blessings.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Time Well Spent
This coming weekend is Annual Conference for United Methodists across the state of Iowa. I hope you take time this week to pray for our time together, specifically:
* That as a conference we seek out God's Holy Spirit for discernment on issues,
* That we pray for the leadership of the conference, including Bishop Trimble,
* and, That we maintain Christian integrity when in disagreement.
Annual Conference is an important time for United Methodists to gather, to discern, to worship and pray together. I will be gone from June 4-June 7.
On the journey,
Alecia
* That as a conference we seek out God's Holy Spirit for discernment on issues,
* That we pray for the leadership of the conference, including Bishop Trimble,
* and, That we maintain Christian integrity when in disagreement.
Annual Conference is an important time for United Methodists to gather, to discern, to worship and pray together. I will be gone from June 4-June 7.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, May 23, 2011
Twisters
The photos of a devastated Joplin, Missouri are difficult to view. Please pray for for those impacted by the storms. It is hard to imagine how the emergency response teams are able to respond -- with the lack of power, cell coverage and lack of dedicated roads and streets.
There is a new team forming at church -- Disaster Preparedness. Like all of the UM churches in Iowa, we are working on a plan. Initially it will involve the church proper. After it is in place, then we will work with the city so we can serve as an asset if the unthinkable happens.
As news reports spread of a tornado approaching Oxford and another Kent Park, it helped to speed up my desire to get those plans in place. Each of the major teams will answer questions for a worst case scenario, such as:
1. Where will this ministry meet? Think worship, Creation Kids, Food and Clothing pantry, church office. You get the idea.
2. How will you communicate to your clientele -- congegation, clients, children?
3. Where do you keep your records and inventory list, including an off-site location?
There are a lot of things to consider. Various teams,including the Trustees, have information to gather in order for us to have a comprehensive plan. If you have interest in joining this team, please contact me. Four of us make up the core group at this time: Christine Langridge (nurse), Elaine Hernandez (nurse), Peggy Tillman (worked on a Disaster Preparedness plan at a previous employment) and me.
Pray for those whose lives have been altered. Pray for churches as they minister to areas in need.
On the journey,
Alecia
There is a new team forming at church -- Disaster Preparedness. Like all of the UM churches in Iowa, we are working on a plan. Initially it will involve the church proper. After it is in place, then we will work with the city so we can serve as an asset if the unthinkable happens.
As news reports spread of a tornado approaching Oxford and another Kent Park, it helped to speed up my desire to get those plans in place. Each of the major teams will answer questions for a worst case scenario, such as:
1. Where will this ministry meet? Think worship, Creation Kids, Food and Clothing pantry, church office. You get the idea.
2. How will you communicate to your clientele -- congegation, clients, children?
3. Where do you keep your records and inventory list, including an off-site location?
There are a lot of things to consider. Various teams,including the Trustees, have information to gather in order for us to have a comprehensive plan. If you have interest in joining this team, please contact me. Four of us make up the core group at this time: Christine Langridge (nurse), Elaine Hernandez (nurse), Peggy Tillman (worked on a Disaster Preparedness plan at a previous employment) and me.
Pray for those whose lives have been altered. Pray for churches as they minister to areas in need.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, May 3, 2011
A Christian Response
As most Americans, I breathed in relief after the mission and subsequent death of Bin Laden. I found this to be a helpful article as I pondered the events of this week. Jill Sanders had the article on her Facebook page.
http://blog.sojo.net/2011/05/02/how-should-we-respond-to-the-death-of-osama-bin-laden/
Peace to you this week,
Alecia
http://blog.sojo.net/2011/05/02/how-should-we-respond-to-the-death-of-osama-bin-laden/
Peace to you this week,
Alecia
Monday, April 18, 2011
The Road Home
I was struck by a line in the cantata yesterday. The line came out of Peter's monologue. Peter's (Andrew McKnight) line was in response to "Who do you say that I am?" After naming him "the Christ, the Son of the Living God," he continued with the "Aha" line for me. He said, "This wasn't something I needed time to think about. I had a front row seat to this Man's life and ministry. I knew His Heart."
I have followed Jesus for as long as I can remember. I have had "a front row seat" to Jesus' ministry in many different settings. When I see the various ministry teams in action at the church, I see Jesus. When I watch a family getting food at the pantry, I see Jesus. When another prayer shawl goes out the door, there goes Jesus. I know who He is. I have experienced Jesus within my life and subsequent experiences. I also know who Jesus is because of seeing Him in You. I have had a front row seat for ten years.
On the journey,
Alecia
I have followed Jesus for as long as I can remember. I have had "a front row seat" to Jesus' ministry in many different settings. When I see the various ministry teams in action at the church, I see Jesus. When I watch a family getting food at the pantry, I see Jesus. When another prayer shawl goes out the door, there goes Jesus. I know who He is. I have experienced Jesus within my life and subsequent experiences. I also know who Jesus is because of seeing Him in You. I have had a front row seat for ten years.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Rites of Spring
It was an amazing Sunday witnessing 12 confirmands making vows to confirm their faith. Having spent several months with this group, I knew how much went into their thought process. Each young person wrote a Statement of Faith which explained his/her beliefs. They wrote on topics, such as redemption, grace, the God-head. Nothing like trying to wrestle with the differences between prevenient, justifying and sanctifying grace when you are 12-14 years old.
The students turn in a rough draft of their Statement of Faith. Invariably, my last comment on the paper is always, "And why does any of this matter to you? Why do you want to follow Jesus?"
Perhaps each of us should undertake writing what we believe during this Lenten journey. And oh yes... why does any of it matter to you?
On the journey,
Alecia
BTW -- If you would like to read this class' Statements of Faith, one is available in the library and at the Information Booth.
The students turn in a rough draft of their Statement of Faith. Invariably, my last comment on the paper is always, "And why does any of this matter to you? Why do you want to follow Jesus?"
Perhaps each of us should undertake writing what we believe during this Lenten journey. And oh yes... why does any of it matter to you?
On the journey,
Alecia
BTW -- If you would like to read this class' Statements of Faith, one is available in the library and at the Information Booth.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Vacation
My week-long southern tour visiting family drew to a close last night. It was relaxing, fun and restful. I can't remember the last time I was able to sleep in after 8 AM so many days. Doug and I spent time in the homes of my adult nieces and nephews. I want to be the type of aunt who continues to track with them throughout their growing up years. Doug worked on home repair projects with spouses, while I connected in deeper conversations than are possible at Christmas. It felt good to be with family.
I realize that God give's us our church family in much the same way. I have the privilege of being in intimate conversations where tears and laughter are common. I forget what a privilege it is to be in community, one with another. It is powerful. While it was great to take a step back and refresh my soul this past week, it felt good to come home.
I hope you find time in this day to stop, breathe deeply and take in the moment.
On the journey,
Alecia
I realize that God give's us our church family in much the same way. I have the privilege of being in intimate conversations where tears and laughter are common. I forget what a privilege it is to be in community, one with another. It is powerful. While it was great to take a step back and refresh my soul this past week, it felt good to come home.
I hope you find time in this day to stop, breathe deeply and take in the moment.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Ash Wednesday or Thereabouts
It is hard to believe we have already travelled from Christmas to the beginning of Lent. A season of reflection in the midst of our lives is an important annual journey. If you want to read a great, simple reflection on Lent, return to the homepage and scrolldown to the lower right hand corner and click on "Want to know more about Lent?". It's a fast read but offers good insight.
The smudge of the cross mingled with the woody scent of the burnt palm leaves brings home how quickly journeys move from "Gloria in excelsis Deo" to "Hosanna" to "Crucify." I feel exposed with the dark stain of the cross marking me on my forehead. I have given voice to all three expressions at various points along the way. The Lenten pathway helps guide me home, back to the dust of the earth and the breathe of the Spirit.
I hope you find a place of quiet regularly during this next six weeks. It is not as much about doing, but rather in being with the One. Quiet, still, thoughtful.
On the journey,
Alecia
The smudge of the cross mingled with the woody scent of the burnt palm leaves brings home how quickly journeys move from "Gloria in excelsis Deo" to "Hosanna" to "Crucify." I feel exposed with the dark stain of the cross marking me on my forehead. I have given voice to all three expressions at various points along the way. The Lenten pathway helps guide me home, back to the dust of the earth and the breathe of the Spirit.
I hope you find a place of quiet regularly during this next six weeks. It is not as much about doing, but rather in being with the One. Quiet, still, thoughtful.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, February 28, 2011
Sailboats on a River
I am always amazed at the depth of the questions coming from our confirmands. After a discussion about the Holy Spirit, Becca H. wrote the following questions:
*Is the Holy Spirit love or when we feel love is it from the Holy Spirit?
*Does everything happen for for a reason?
*Can sailboats on a river represent our path in life?
These are good, serious, thoughtful questions. Connecting God's Spirit to love-- pure love is an insightful observation. I believe that while we experience God's love, the Spirit opens us up even more to when love is expressed.
A sailboat offers a good metaphor of the Spirit. If we look at our life as a sailboat, then we have to decide whether we are sailing or simply watching other sailboats from shore. I believe God placed within each of us that desire to sail-- to respond to the Lord. As we created our own versions of origami sailboats in confirmation, it was quickly apparent the boats with more sail available caught the most wind. Nicholas M.'s boat shot across the water because of the clever design to capture the wind. When we open up our hearts, souls and minds to the Spirit, we can go places we never dreamed of with our lives.
On the journey,
Alecia
*Is the Holy Spirit love or when we feel love is it from the Holy Spirit?
*Does everything happen for for a reason?
*Can sailboats on a river represent our path in life?
These are good, serious, thoughtful questions. Connecting God's Spirit to love-- pure love is an insightful observation. I believe that while we experience God's love, the Spirit opens us up even more to when love is expressed.
A sailboat offers a good metaphor of the Spirit. If we look at our life as a sailboat, then we have to decide whether we are sailing or simply watching other sailboats from shore. I believe God placed within each of us that desire to sail-- to respond to the Lord. As we created our own versions of origami sailboats in confirmation, it was quickly apparent the boats with more sail available caught the most wind. Nicholas M.'s boat shot across the water because of the clever design to capture the wind. When we open up our hearts, souls and minds to the Spirit, we can go places we never dreamed of with our lives.
On the journey,
Alecia
Monday, February 21, 2011
An Invitation
I was asked to participate in a new group called Healthy Church Initiative (HCI). Over the next year I will be reading a series a books and participate in a discussion group. At each meeting I will be asked to offer an action plan on one key learning I discovered in the reading. My initial response was to not take part simply because of time. However, I changed my mind when I discovered that the books I will be reading will aid us in becoming the missional church God has called us to be.
The book I will be reading is, "Recreating the Church" by Richard Hamm. I would love to have others read it as well and share what they learned. Here is a description of the book:
"At the center of this manifesto is Hamm's concern for preserving the core values of the Mainline churches in the face of challenges from secularism and fundamentalism. The problem, as he sees it, is that the structures that developed over the years have become obsolete and they prevent the church from adapting to the cultural context in which it lives. By embracing the "missional church" idea Hamm is less interested in quick fixes, but rather calls for long term reinvention of the church so that the Mainline values can be preserved and can influence not just the religious context but the world context."
Check it out. See what you think. I'll post my thoughts after I have read the book.
On the journey,
Alecia
The book I will be reading is, "Recreating the Church" by Richard Hamm. I would love to have others read it as well and share what they learned. Here is a description of the book:
"At the center of this manifesto is Hamm's concern for preserving the core values of the Mainline churches in the face of challenges from secularism and fundamentalism. The problem, as he sees it, is that the structures that developed over the years have become obsolete and they prevent the church from adapting to the cultural context in which it lives. By embracing the "missional church" idea Hamm is less interested in quick fixes, but rather calls for long term reinvention of the church so that the Mainline values can be preserved and can influence not just the religious context but the world context."
Check it out. See what you think. I'll post my thoughts after I have read the book.
On the journey,
Alecia
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Confirming Your Faith
One of my favorite aspects of my job is Confirmation which I work with 7th and 8th grade students. It is a fun age because they tend to not censor what comes out of their mouth as to whether or not its particularly religious. Because I have a policy to answer any question thrown at me in the class, I have fielded questions on a number of topics. Sometimes the questions are more serious in nature. Take for instance the thoughts of one of the students:
*When talking about sins, it depends what you consider a sin.
*Can a person ever be entirely forgiven for sins?
*Just because God died on the cross, does that mean our sins are forgiven?
*Why do sins matter if we are not perfect?
This student is doing a great job in thinking theologically. She might not think about in those terms, but it is precisely what she is doing. I wonder how our church would change if we all took time to think theologically now and again.
On the journey,
Alecia
*When talking about sins, it depends what you consider a sin.
*Can a person ever be entirely forgiven for sins?
*Just because God died on the cross, does that mean our sins are forgiven?
*Why do sins matter if we are not perfect?
This student is doing a great job in thinking theologically. She might not think about in those terms, but it is precisely what she is doing. I wonder how our church would change if we all took time to think theologically now and again.
On the journey,
Alecia
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