Dear friends, As you may know, I will be out of the office from January 7th- March 1st on medical leave. During my absence the church is well-covered. Director of Family Ministries, Josh Rath, will serve in the day to day pastoral functions. In addition, Sue Meade, a retired UM pastor, is available as well. Stephen Ministers are available to listen and serve. Bev Byram, the church office administrator, is able to handle daily operations. Because we are part of a connectional system as United Methodists, the Iowa City area pastors are open to assisting in whatever ways as needed. Rev. Dr. Jill Sanders will serve as celebrant for communion on February 3. On Sunday mornings, you will see a variety of familiar faces filling new roles in preaching and leading. I am excited to hear what each one has to teach us. I will take advantage of the DVD recordings of the services coming out of our Audio/Visual team! This is not a time to miss. God’s Spirit is moving powerfully among the leadership and the body in the church. This will become more and more evident as the year progresses. One of my favorite quotes comes from Sister Pat Farrell in her address, "Navigating the Shifts":

Nor is there reason to be fearful of the cataclysmic movements of change swirling around us. We only need to recognize the movement, step into the flow, and be carried by it. Indeed, all creation is groaning in one great act of giving birth. The Spirit of God still hovers over the chaos.

In seasons of great change or when I feel afraid, I have found it challenging, as well as comforting to step into the waters of change. There is movement within this church body. The Spirit of God is urging us to follow God in radical ways. In my own life, at times it feels that the waters might overtake me. Each time I come back to God who “still hovers over the chaos.” Changes are coming. Take heart. This is the best place to be. I covet your prayers for my two surgeries. The first one is on January 8th, which is a change from my original date. The longer surgery is on the 24th. I will pray for you during my absence. On the journey, Alecia

Advent -- the preparation for 4 weeks until Christmas -- feels like it is flying by me. I want God to make this story relevant once again, yet this year it reads more like a condensed version by Readers Digest. This is a story I need to hear over and over. I need to see all of the human choices which played into this heavenly plan. I am experiencing the undeniably gracious gift of Emmanuel, God with us through Jesus. I am awed at how much Mary and Joseph sacrificed to be part of this plan playing out. When I stop and reflect on the sacrifices and intentional choices made by so many people at the manger, I am grateful. So what does God call me to do in sacrifice? I am a character in this play as well. It is easier to get caught up in the crush of the Christmas consumerism than it is to be still. Who am I at the manger and what do I bring? Maybe I will just go back to "decking the halls"... or just perhaps I will seek out the role I am to play in this on-going love story. On the journey, Alecia

Wow... it is a good thing my living does not depend upon my blogging ability. I believe the last time I blogged was June 11. Perhaps there will be a New Year's resolution in the making concerning my consistency in this endeavor. On another note, I saw this quote on a Facebook page and it has resonated with me. A Gospel That Unsettles Oscar Romero

A church that doesn't provoke any crises, a gospel that doesn't unsettle, a word of God that doesn't get under anyone's skin, a word of God that doesn't touch the real sin of the society in which it is being proclaimed--what gospel is that? Very nice, pious considerations that don't bother anyone, that's the way many would like preaching to be. Those preachers who avoid every thorny matter so as not to be harassed, so as not to have conflicts and difficulties, do not light up the world they live in.

I have struggled with not preaching with a prophetic edge. It is easier to offer sermons which do not offer the good news that Jesus proclaims in the Beatitudes. There is an edginess in Jesus' words found in Matthew 5-7 which provokes a response. I am grateful to be in a church that is seeking to clarify its mission. Not only clarify the mission but examine whether or not a ministry reaches the criteria of seeing lives transformed. A active church without a clear mission is simply busy. Jesus calls us to be much more than a program church. I will endeavor to better in blogging each week! As this month progresses, I hope you are taking time daily to be thankful for the blessings all around us. On the journey, Alecia

Living An Uncommon Life

At the end of the sermon yesterday, I posed four questions as a homework assignment. There were:

*10 years from now who will you be? *What and who will be impacted by your uncommon life? *What is your bowl of stew? *What is going on in your life that you don't want others to know?

If we choose to live intentionally or by design, rather than where life takes us, then these questions become important so we do not migrate from the pathway. In putting together the sermon, I was struck by how much Esau lost(Genesis 25). I was surprised how sad I was. Esau endured the loss of respect from a father. He endured ridicule every time he was called Red. He lost the opportunity to do something uncommon by simply using a lack of judgment. The sadness translated to me thinking through poor choices in my life. I am continuing to think through the decisions that were common and easy; whereby losing the ability to lead an uncommon life. I am trying to understand my fears and appetites better. Being in the small group, Crave, has helped me to put my eating issues into God's hands. The accountability of the small group has allowed me to not trade my craving for God for something as simple as a sugary delight. I want to live intentionally- be it as a woman, a wife, a mother, a friend and a pastor. I would be curious to hear your answers to these questions on your journey. If you are a part of a small group or have a circle of friends, try posing one of the questions when you gather next. On the journey, Alecia

40 Days in the Word

I am excited about the current worship series on the Bible. Our engaging scripture at a deeper level will play out in a myriad of ways as we seek to live out God's mission. Most of all I look forward to good conversations that come out of such an endeavor.
If you were not here on Sunday or one of the folks who picked up a recycled bulletin, here is a quick synopsis of the sermon notes. The topic for the day was, Is the Bible true? The passage was 2 Timothy 3:16-17. I believe scripture is God-breathed and inspired. In looking at its validity, I looked at:

1. Historical Accuracy where we noted the verifiable data within the text.
2. Scientific Accuracy where we looked at what was included in the text, as well as what was not included. The prevailing belief of the day made up part of the sermon.
3. Prophetic Accuracy where we examined the astronomical odds of Jesus fulfilling the 300 prophecies made concerning him.
4. Thematic Accuracy where we discussed the over-arching theme running throughout the Old and New testaments concerning the saving grace of God through Jesus Christ.
5. Personally Accurate as it serves a mirror into my life.

The 40 Days in the Word is series in which a number of churches are participating throughout the country. As part of this series there is a Bible study/small group, which I will host beginning the first Sunday night in May beginning at 6:00 pm. Yes... I am aware that May gets busy, yet I am sure we can figure out a way to work through the 6 weeks. This is God's Word. I personally think this will be an exciting series.

I look forward to hearing about what you are learning and hearing as you read God's Word. If you would like to join in a daily reading schedule, try this set of scriptures this week:
Monday -- Philippians 1. Focus on verse 6
Tuesday -- Philippians 1. Focus on verse 27a.
Wednesday-- Philippians 2. Focus on verse 13.
Thursday-- Philippians 3. Focus on 12b.
Friday-- Philippians 4. Focus on verse 6.
Read the chapter and then write down your observations and thoughts about the focus verse applies to your life.

On the journey,
Alecia

One Sinner's Church

I shared a story on Sunday about two pastors approaching me with questions about our congregation. In essence they were asking who exactly attends this church. While I guessed where they were attempting to steer the conversation, I let it play out. I love speaking about this congregation. I greatly appreciate the openness and welcoming heart to all the individuals that cross our threshhold. Anytime I can share the story of the congregation I know it's a good day!

I spoke of moderates, conservatives and liberals. I talked of agnostics and seekers. I named the folks whom are lovingly drug to worship on a regular basis. They said you have sinners -- active sinners in your midst. Ah... finally the crux of the matter. Yes... I said. I am one of them. They tried to re-direct the conversation so I could truly understand. I did understand. I am grateful to be part of a congregation of sinners -- black, white, brown, republican, democrat, moderate, young, old, grey haired and no hairs, gay, straight -- we are all broken in need of the grace of God. Thank goodness resurrection morning is coming.

I believe St.Paul said it this way in Galatians 3:28:

There is no longer Jew or Gentile, slave or free, male and famile. For you are all one in Christ Jesus.

Friday may be upon us, but Sunday is coming.

On the journey,
Alecia

I Thirst

One of the final sayings of Jesus causes me to think about my actions. When I hear the words, I thirst, I realize I need to see how I respond to the suffering Christ. Would I bring wine to the lips of crucified One? Would I remain invisible as part of the crowd? Would I hide as did the disciples? Would I be courageous in the face of anger and violence or would I seek to protect myself, my energy, my time? When I see the simple words from John 19, I have to wonder if I see Jesus around me: the broken man in need of money for the hotel, the harried cashier, the undocumented worker, the angry teen or any number of folks. Maybe the question is not whether I see people around me. Perhaps I need to allow God's Spirit more entrance into my heart, as Jason Detra so eloquently put it during yesterday's service.

Speaking of Jason, go to Facebook and search for Exercise Your Heart. While the FB page is new, I like how Jason wrote the 4-part premise:
1. Cardio workout 15 minutes a day
2. Heart healthy meals
3. Do a good deed
4. Exercise your time with God.
I thought Jason's words were compelling as he testified about God's presence in his life.

On the journey,
Alecia

Lenten Journey

I just read a wonderful description of the meaning of Lent on our website. Scroll down to the bottom of the page and in the "Journey to Easter" you will see the line for more information as to the meaning of Lent. Click and you will read an easy to understand version of the meaning of Lent.

I am reminded how beauty is an avenue to God. Each week I am drawn to the newly created banners that remind us of the last sayings of Jesus. I use the word drawn purposefully. I find that simply being quiet before the banners is a good way for me to move into the silence of the season. I resonate with each phrase as I sit in the sanctuary. Even on Sunday mornings a glimpse at one of the phrases propels me into a reflective place. I hope it is that way for you.

On the journey,
Alecia

Act of Mercy

I am struck by the act of mercy by Simon of Cyrene. In the horror of the mob scene, trial and walk to golgatha, there is an act of kindness shown to Jesus. Simon of Cyrene takes the cross arm from Jesus' shoulders. He bears, if you will, Jesus' burdens. The gospel writers do not record him speaking, yet Simon says volumes in his act of mercy. He reflects Jesus by his actions.

I have often thought during Lent about which character of the passion best represents me. Everyone betrays Jesus at some point. Are my shortcomings best reflected in: Peter or Judas? Would it be more accurate for me to think in terms of the other disciples, the religious leaders or the high priest? Perhaps I am more in line with the Roman soldiers-- gambling with my faith or the mob and civic leaders who are just trying to keep the peace. Are you Simon? I realize my answer changes each year as I continue to journey towards Jesus and the cross. I have certainly found myself in alignment with Peter and civic leaders at various points.

So who in the story would serve as a good representation of you? Wrestle with this question as you continue your journey.

On the journey,
Alecia

Woes and Redemption

My church computer has been on the blink for the better part of two weeks. It is awaiting a third attempt at a fix. While I can access email from other sources through webmail, it has its limitations. From the church I am unable to forward, reply or even print. I feel like some of my best attempts at communication are at a standstill. The simplicity of communication has been thwarted by an initial virus.

I can't help but wonder if in the waning moments of Jesus' life if he felt that his ability to communicate was severely limited. He had the crowds surrounding him. Now was not the time for the sermon. Jesus poignantly spoke 7 phrases from the cross. Jesus spoke through simple words and deeds, which offered grace and mercy.

Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.

Amazing love poured out from the cross. Jesus, help me live as your disciple. Amen.

On the journey,
Alecia

$17.00

You gotta love it when the Holy Spirit moves through the congregation. To have a budget shortfall of $44,352 is daunting. To have an additional $44,369 committed is phenomenal. Thank you for responding to God's Spirit as you determined what God was calling you to give to this church. This was not a single act or even the response of a committed few. To reach the additional $44,369 required the congregation. One person asked if we had staged the $17 overage. I just laughed. The only staging was done by God through our hearts.

Ministries are moving forward. God's vision in this church is thriving. Strong commitments to living out the vision in our church and into our community have been made.

Thanks be to God.

On the journey,
Alecia

Snakes and Other Slimy Things

Yesterday in church I spoke of an experience during my elementary years which a class bully threatened me with a live snake. Somehow at that young age I was smart enough to understand that if I allowed myself to be intimidated by him, I would face his power over me over and over again. He left me alone after the incident.

It's easy for me to recognize when I am on the receiving end of a slimy or disparaging comment. When I am at a good place, I can look for any nugget of truth that might be lurking within the comments. When I am not, I either brood over the words or verbally lash out.

I can't help but notice that sometimes I am the one holding the snake, trying to get my way. God help me when I try to manipulate those around me. Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount have caused me to stop and re-look at how I speak and work.

On the journey,
Alecia

Falling Into Place

Last week I fell. My fault when I look back on it. I was rushing. It was snowing. I was in my heeled boots because of an outdoor graveside later. Wet boot heels on tiled floors were never made to go together. I have been sore... and whiny for the last few days. The fall has made me appreciate my body, which I so often take for granted.

While I was sporting a heat wrap a couple of days ago I was thinking about the church. It is so easy to take the church body and our life together for granted. The building, the activities, the ministries, the worship, the staff-- each aspect offers so much to our spiritual lives. Even when the body is hurting, in this case financially, I find myself amazed at the depth of concern and response from the membership. I don't know why it surprises me. I have walked this journey with you for 10+ years. Thank you for your work and ministry here at the church.

Perhaps out of the pain of the journey we will be reminded of the amazing life together that we share in this place.

On the journey,
Alecia

Forgiveness

As I continue to reflect on the Beatitudes, I am struck at how these simple words have such an impact on my daily life. I almost hesitate to work on this week's service in more detail. It seems that each time I look at a specific Beatitude that I always need to practice what I preach at some point during the week.

This past week I have reflected on those people whom I have hurt-- with my words and with my actions. Whether intentional or not doesn't seem to matter as much as attempting to right the wrong. I spent time journaling about those folks whom I perceived have wronged me. In looking back sometimes the words and actions were intentional, while at other times, I over-reacted. I am quickly reminded how I am not God. I remember grievances. I still have scar tissue from hurts. And for me, forgiveness is not a one step process. I must be a slow learner.

I know in my heart when I release my unresolved anger it is always good and life-giving. Why I hesitate is beyond me.

On the journey,
Alecia

Anger Management

Sunday's scripture text on Matthew 5:21-26 certainly elicited a number of comments. One of the most wonderful gifts God has bestowed on human beings is emotions. Emotions are neither good nor bad. People place value judgments on emotions; however when one carefully examines them, there is a great deal to be learned and revealed. How we deal or fail to deal with our emotions is where we run into trouble. Good follow up questions might be:

1. How have you experienced broken relationships because of anger or angry outbursts?
2. How do you protect yourselves from angry outbursts?
3. Is there anyone that you need to make amends with because of anger?

Jesus said to Love God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength but did He really mean people too? The Sermon on the Mount certainly suggests that Jesus did call for us to care for one another.

The Sermon on the Mount is found in Matthew, chapters 5-7. There is a shorter version found in Luke as well. I like what Megan McKenna had to say,

This "kindgom" consists not in power and authority but in relationships among the children of God, this new family of Jesus.

Matthew often uses the term the kingdom of heavenwhich invokes the Spirit's truth as God sees it. When you read the Sermon on the Mount, we see how Jesus teaches the disciples, us, to live, as well as to develop specific types of relationships we choose to associate with on an everyday basis. If you read the first part of Matthew 5, you will notice that our brothers and sisters in Christ include the poor, the oppressed, the hurting, the powerless. How does this play out in your life?

I am grateful to journey with you as we walk through aspects of the Sermon on the Mount.

On the journey,
Alecia