6-30-11 Thursday, 7:01 am Springfield, 72, muggy, high heading for upper 90s today.
I enjoy the summer! On Monday I hauled dirt and created a level spot for the large wading pool in the backyard. Today I will have some time to work on the yard and garden and to get some exercise. We are at the last day of the first half of the year. Many people around me are commenting on how fast time goes by. I am very conscious of the rapid advance of “father time” and desire to maximize the days given to me by God to walk this earthly life.
II Kings 17
The 10 northern tribes are finally hauled off into Assyrian captivity, never to return. This chapter summarizes their sins, and the reason God allowed their enemies to overrun their capitol city and decimate the people. They had failed to honor God, to obey him, to follow his ways. They worshipped the “sex and religion” gods of the neighboring people. It is interesting that in this generation, almost three millennium later, the “worship” of sex and sex goddesses is still one of the critical enemies of a life of following Jesus. When will humans learn that God has revealed himself in holiness and has a plan for the salvation of all people from darkness and bondage? The darkness continues to spread, and the people of God are called to carry his light to all nations. Thank you Lord for the light, guide us as we carry it forward today, living in the light as you are in the light!
Thursday, June 30, 2011
June 28, 2011
6-28-11 Tuesday, 6:31 am Springfield, Cox Surgery Center, Cloudy, with rain overnight.
I am here with Bethany as she is prepped for a manipulation of her foot, which requires anesthesia. It has been almost ten days since I have journalled/blogged. I spent a week at Camp Galilee with youth from Wesley and from across Missouri. I was a cabin counselor for senior high boys. The week was very well organized and very fruitful. The schedule was full. I did not get adequate sleep, and my deficit grew daily. God provided what I needed, and I was able to finish strong, with enough energy to participate in the Patriotic Pageant on Saturday night, lead 4 worship services on Sunday, attend the Sunday afternoon Pageant, and host a game night at our house Sunday evening.
Today I will be working with our coach/consultant Doug Anderson around the HCI prescriptions. I am looking forward to the progress we will make today. It is interesting to have been out of the office for a week, and to come back to a packed schedule. Thus, I will be working on emails, etc. as Bethany has this procedure done this morning.
II Kings 13
This is a continuation of kings coming into power, mostly not serving God, going to war, winning or losing. It almost gets tedious and repetitive with all the successive, brief accounts of these kings. I am continually amazed that kings would choose to serve gods other than Yahweh. It seems so foolish, but at the time might have had some appeal.
Lord, guard my heart from ever deviating from devotion to you and your perfect will. I desire to serve and please you in every way, every day until I cross the river into eternity.
I am here with Bethany as she is prepped for a manipulation of her foot, which requires anesthesia. It has been almost ten days since I have journalled/blogged. I spent a week at Camp Galilee with youth from Wesley and from across Missouri. I was a cabin counselor for senior high boys. The week was very well organized and very fruitful. The schedule was full. I did not get adequate sleep, and my deficit grew daily. God provided what I needed, and I was able to finish strong, with enough energy to participate in the Patriotic Pageant on Saturday night, lead 4 worship services on Sunday, attend the Sunday afternoon Pageant, and host a game night at our house Sunday evening.
Today I will be working with our coach/consultant Doug Anderson around the HCI prescriptions. I am looking forward to the progress we will make today. It is interesting to have been out of the office for a week, and to come back to a packed schedule. Thus, I will be working on emails, etc. as Bethany has this procedure done this morning.
II Kings 13
This is a continuation of kings coming into power, mostly not serving God, going to war, winning or losing. It almost gets tedious and repetitive with all the successive, brief accounts of these kings. I am continually amazed that kings would choose to serve gods other than Yahweh. It seems so foolish, but at the time might have had some appeal.
Lord, guard my heart from ever deviating from devotion to you and your perfect will. I desire to serve and please you in every way, every day until I cross the river into eternity.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
June 19, 2011
6-19-11 Sunday, 5:09 am Springfield, 66 degrees clear.
A thunderstorm rolled through about 3:30 this morning with a little rain, a little lightening, a little wind. Now the air is cooler. Today I head to camp Galilee for six days of being a camp counselor for senior high boys. I am looking forward to this experience and all the ways God will use this time and place to accomplish His purposes in many lives, including mine. This morning I will bring the message of how much God loves His people, and everybody is included in this love. I will use the metaphor of the vineyard, and from the Space Shuttle program, the care that NASA provides for its astronauts.
Romans 11 – Israel’s rejection is not final
In my sermon this morning I will stress how precious Israel is in the sight of God. They are his special people, “the planting of the Lord”. They have been disobedient, and God has raised up gentiles (which includes me and most everybody I know) to be grafted into the stump of Jesse. It is well within God’s power to graft back into the root the branches of Israel, once cut off. “O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” … For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen.” (verses 33-36)
Guide me today, most holy Lord as I seek to teach from your word about how special are the people whom you have called, and planted, and cultivated to be your vineyard, your oaks, your body. May those who gather to worship at 8:15, 9:30, 10:30 and 11:00 sense your power and your love. May those who join today, and are baptized today experience the body of Christ at its best.
A thunderstorm rolled through about 3:30 this morning with a little rain, a little lightening, a little wind. Now the air is cooler. Today I head to camp Galilee for six days of being a camp counselor for senior high boys. I am looking forward to this experience and all the ways God will use this time and place to accomplish His purposes in many lives, including mine. This morning I will bring the message of how much God loves His people, and everybody is included in this love. I will use the metaphor of the vineyard, and from the Space Shuttle program, the care that NASA provides for its astronauts.
Romans 11 – Israel’s rejection is not final
In my sermon this morning I will stress how precious Israel is in the sight of God. They are his special people, “the planting of the Lord”. They have been disobedient, and God has raised up gentiles (which includes me and most everybody I know) to be grafted into the stump of Jesse. It is well within God’s power to graft back into the root the branches of Israel, once cut off. “O the depth of the riches and wisdom and knowledge of God! How unsearchable are his judgments and how inscrutable his ways! For who has known the mind of the Lord? Or who has been his counselor?” … For from him and through him and to him are all things. To him be the glory forever. Amen.” (verses 33-36)
Guide me today, most holy Lord as I seek to teach from your word about how special are the people whom you have called, and planted, and cultivated to be your vineyard, your oaks, your body. May those who gather to worship at 8:15, 9:30, 10:30 and 11:00 sense your power and your love. May those who join today, and are baptized today experience the body of Christ at its best.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
June 18, 2011
6-18-11 Saturday, 8:01 am Springfield – 72 degrees
This is my one morning this week to have quiet reflection with prayer and scripture before I launch into the day. As I prepare to be a camp counselor at Galilee beginning tomorrow afternoon, I am thankful for the structure of camp and the means of discipleship and spiritual growth it affords. It is always hard to be away from the church for a week, and it is good to develop the deeper relationships afforded by the camp setting.
Isaiah 5:1-7 “A song of my beloved concerning His vineyard.”
Isaiah 27:2-6 also makes reference to the vineyard of which the Lord is its keeper. He waters it (with the Word), he guards it night and day. Verse 6: “In the days to come Judah will take root, Israel will blossom and sprout; and they will fill the whole world with fruit.” This verse points me toward part four of my series – God’s plan to bless the whole world with the fruit of his chosen people.
I have identified as one of the major themes of Isaiah, the special relationship God has for his people. In the next hour I will research this theme and develop the context for tomorrow’s message “How much does a Father love?” The people of Israel were/are very special to God, and the church of Jesus Christ is in that same relationship. Guide me Lord as I work today on preparing for preaching, teaching and counseling camp. Thank you for this beautiful June day in Missouri.
This is my one morning this week to have quiet reflection with prayer and scripture before I launch into the day. As I prepare to be a camp counselor at Galilee beginning tomorrow afternoon, I am thankful for the structure of camp and the means of discipleship and spiritual growth it affords. It is always hard to be away from the church for a week, and it is good to develop the deeper relationships afforded by the camp setting.
Isaiah 5:1-7 “A song of my beloved concerning His vineyard.”
Isaiah 27:2-6 also makes reference to the vineyard of which the Lord is its keeper. He waters it (with the Word), he guards it night and day. Verse 6: “In the days to come Judah will take root, Israel will blossom and sprout; and they will fill the whole world with fruit.” This verse points me toward part four of my series – God’s plan to bless the whole world with the fruit of his chosen people.
I have identified as one of the major themes of Isaiah, the special relationship God has for his people. In the next hour I will research this theme and develop the context for tomorrow’s message “How much does a Father love?” The people of Israel were/are very special to God, and the church of Jesus Christ is in that same relationship. Guide me Lord as I work today on preparing for preaching, teaching and counseling camp. Thank you for this beautiful June day in Missouri.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
June 16, 2011
6-16-11 Thursday, 5:13 am Springfield, 66 degrees, clear, full moon and morning star lighting the sky.
I awoke to an incessant beeping coming from the laundry room where the keypad for our security system is installed. The system status report stated that “the battery is not fully charged”. It will be quiet now for 4 hours. After 6 ½ hours of sleep, my battery is not fully charged, but I am up and eager to study, write, pray and work.
Steve and I returned at 5:15 pm yesterday from our four-day motorcycle trip through Missouri, Kansas and Colorado. We had nothing to do but ride. Travelling 1,969.2 miles in four days was challenging and rewarding. I hope to write up a trip log recording all the towns we stopped in and the things we saw and did. I found the song “Standing on the Promises” repeating in my mind often during the repetitive hours of riding. I also was thinking a lot about discipleship, the processes that churches use, and how I might work to improve those processes. At Wesley, we have a task force which meets tonight that has been addressing the discipleship process for about 2 years now. My conversation with Steve Rankin (who has written a book on discipleship) last week was most helpful and has motivated me to apply more energy to this area of church life. I could see partnering with Steve, and perhaps Bishop Wilke to make a wider implementation of solid discipleship processes across the United Methodist connection. One insight I had from our recent ride is that “you have to be out front to lead”, as I was the trailing bike on the ride, and with no voice communication, I discovered that on a trip like this, a person can only lead from being out front. I think this is true also of discipleship, and one can only lead from being a growing disciple, in all the aspects of following Christ.
Scripture: (from the One Year Bible) Acts 10:24-48
Peter accepts the invitation from the messengers from Cornelius, the centurion, who came to find him in Joppa. He has just had a vision of unclean animals being lowered down from heaven on a sheet. Reaching Ceasarea Peter finds a group of relatives and close friends assembled with Cornelius, waiting for Peter. Peter begins by stating “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a man who is a Jew to associate with a foreigner or to visit him; and yet God has shown me that I should not call any man unholy or unclean.” (verse 28) Peter hears about the vision Cornelius had while praying (verses 30-33) and concludes “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right, is welcome to Him. (verses 34-35 NASB)
On the fourth Sunday of June, the message I preach from Isaiah will be on the theme of God desiring to share the good news to the world through the people of Israel. This incident recorded in Acts 10 is a great illustration of how this was accomplished through the disciples of Jesus, even as they were all Jewish. Peter needed this vision from God and the powerful events with Cornelius to fully get it. It would then be the apostle Paul whose ministry would be primarily to the gentiles, and with the blessing of Peter and the other disciples.
Also, in August I will address the contribution made by the Pentecostal and Charismatic branch of the church during my series on “The Christian Family Tree”. This event, with its experience of God’s direct leading and speaking to Peter and Cornelius illustrates the emphasis of Pentecostal folks today.
Lord, I desire to be led by your Holy Spirit today and every day to take your Word to all people. You have given me ideas and inspiration. I ask that today as I work at the church office on sermon prep and Bible study planning, you would guide my thoughts and actions to expand your kingdom on earth through the life of Wesley United Methodist Church.
I awoke to an incessant beeping coming from the laundry room where the keypad for our security system is installed. The system status report stated that “the battery is not fully charged”. It will be quiet now for 4 hours. After 6 ½ hours of sleep, my battery is not fully charged, but I am up and eager to study, write, pray and work.
Steve and I returned at 5:15 pm yesterday from our four-day motorcycle trip through Missouri, Kansas and Colorado. We had nothing to do but ride. Travelling 1,969.2 miles in four days was challenging and rewarding. I hope to write up a trip log recording all the towns we stopped in and the things we saw and did. I found the song “Standing on the Promises” repeating in my mind often during the repetitive hours of riding. I also was thinking a lot about discipleship, the processes that churches use, and how I might work to improve those processes. At Wesley, we have a task force which meets tonight that has been addressing the discipleship process for about 2 years now. My conversation with Steve Rankin (who has written a book on discipleship) last week was most helpful and has motivated me to apply more energy to this area of church life. I could see partnering with Steve, and perhaps Bishop Wilke to make a wider implementation of solid discipleship processes across the United Methodist connection. One insight I had from our recent ride is that “you have to be out front to lead”, as I was the trailing bike on the ride, and with no voice communication, I discovered that on a trip like this, a person can only lead from being out front. I think this is true also of discipleship, and one can only lead from being a growing disciple, in all the aspects of following Christ.
Scripture: (from the One Year Bible) Acts 10:24-48
Peter accepts the invitation from the messengers from Cornelius, the centurion, who came to find him in Joppa. He has just had a vision of unclean animals being lowered down from heaven on a sheet. Reaching Ceasarea Peter finds a group of relatives and close friends assembled with Cornelius, waiting for Peter. Peter begins by stating “You yourselves know how unlawful it is for a man who is a Jew to associate with a foreigner or to visit him; and yet God has shown me that I should not call any man unholy or unclean.” (verse 28) Peter hears about the vision Cornelius had while praying (verses 30-33) and concludes “I most certainly understand now that God is not one to show partiality, but in every nation the man who fears Him and does what is right, is welcome to Him. (verses 34-35 NASB)
On the fourth Sunday of June, the message I preach from Isaiah will be on the theme of God desiring to share the good news to the world through the people of Israel. This incident recorded in Acts 10 is a great illustration of how this was accomplished through the disciples of Jesus, even as they were all Jewish. Peter needed this vision from God and the powerful events with Cornelius to fully get it. It would then be the apostle Paul whose ministry would be primarily to the gentiles, and with the blessing of Peter and the other disciples.
Also, in August I will address the contribution made by the Pentecostal and Charismatic branch of the church during my series on “The Christian Family Tree”. This event, with its experience of God’s direct leading and speaking to Peter and Cornelius illustrates the emphasis of Pentecostal folks today.
Lord, I desire to be led by your Holy Spirit today and every day to take your Word to all people. You have given me ideas and inspiration. I ask that today as I work at the church office on sermon prep and Bible study planning, you would guide my thoughts and actions to expand your kingdom on earth through the life of Wesley United Methodist Church.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
June 12, 2011
6-12-11 Sunday, 5:06 am Springfield, 66 degrees.
Finally a morning that is a little cooler. Today Steve and I leave for our motorcycle trip after church. We will reach Concordia, Kansas for dinner at his mom’s house, and on Monday spend the night in Walden, Colorado. From there we will head south through Pueblo to Garden City, and then on Wednesday the long drive across Kansas and back to Springfield in time for me to teach the Isaiah Bible Study. I am looking forward to this long, hard ride and all that goes with it.
Isaiah 52
The rulers of the people howl in captivity. God heard their cry long ago in Egypt. Now in Babylon all day long His name is despised. Verse 6: “Therefore my people shall know my name; therefore in that day they shall know that it is I who speak; here am I.” God revealing Himself to His people as the great I am. It is so easy for followers of God to get discouraged when circumstances do not proceed in a favorable fashion. National defeat, personal loss, natural disasters all contribute to the illusion that God either is powerless or has abandoned us.
There was about 50 years in which the Assyrian power waned, and the leaders of Judah developed a false sense of security even as they strayed from directly following God. When the Babylonians finally hauled them off into captivity, there was incredible anguish and confusion. This must have been some of the feelings of the German people after the horrible defeat of World War I and the strict imposition of the treaty of Versailles. Currently here in the U.S.A. we are in a period of relative security; however the economic downturn, unemployment and the crisis in the housing market are making for tough times across the country.
Verse 7: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, ‘your God reigns.” I will be in the mountains of Colorado tomorrow, and today I have the privilege of announcing peace, the good news that “our God reigns”.
Holy God, You reign in Zion, in all the earth and throughout the universe. In my life, Lord, be glorified today. May the words of my mouth, my understanding compassion, my pastoral presence affirm your reign in my life, your presence in the faith community, and your hope for the future as your kingdom comes, on earth as it is in heaven. Amen!
Finally a morning that is a little cooler. Today Steve and I leave for our motorcycle trip after church. We will reach Concordia, Kansas for dinner at his mom’s house, and on Monday spend the night in Walden, Colorado. From there we will head south through Pueblo to Garden City, and then on Wednesday the long drive across Kansas and back to Springfield in time for me to teach the Isaiah Bible Study. I am looking forward to this long, hard ride and all that goes with it.
Isaiah 52
The rulers of the people howl in captivity. God heard their cry long ago in Egypt. Now in Babylon all day long His name is despised. Verse 6: “Therefore my people shall know my name; therefore in that day they shall know that it is I who speak; here am I.” God revealing Himself to His people as the great I am. It is so easy for followers of God to get discouraged when circumstances do not proceed in a favorable fashion. National defeat, personal loss, natural disasters all contribute to the illusion that God either is powerless or has abandoned us.
There was about 50 years in which the Assyrian power waned, and the leaders of Judah developed a false sense of security even as they strayed from directly following God. When the Babylonians finally hauled them off into captivity, there was incredible anguish and confusion. This must have been some of the feelings of the German people after the horrible defeat of World War I and the strict imposition of the treaty of Versailles. Currently here in the U.S.A. we are in a period of relative security; however the economic downturn, unemployment and the crisis in the housing market are making for tough times across the country.
Verse 7: “How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of the messenger who announces peace, who brings good news, who announces salvation, who says to Zion, ‘your God reigns.” I will be in the mountains of Colorado tomorrow, and today I have the privilege of announcing peace, the good news that “our God reigns”.
Holy God, You reign in Zion, in all the earth and throughout the universe. In my life, Lord, be glorified today. May the words of my mouth, my understanding compassion, my pastoral presence affirm your reign in my life, your presence in the faith community, and your hope for the future as your kingdom comes, on earth as it is in heaven. Amen!
Saturday, June 11, 2011
June 11, 2011
6-11-11 Saturday, 6:35 am Springfield, 71 degrees
The weather has been very consistent these last few days, with the morning low around 71, and the afternoon high around 91. As Steve and I plan to leave on our 4-day trip tomorrow afternoon, it appears that the weather will be favorable for our ride through Kansas and Colorado. This morning we will meet for breakfast and final planning. Yesterday I made good progress in the role of pastor, working with focus and purpose all day. I had a great conversation with Steve Rankin, (Chaplain at SMU in Dallas) about the process of discipleship in a congregation, and the book which he has written along with the pilot program developing at Lover’s Lane UMC in Dallas. I proposed that we might use his book for our spring life group series.
Isaiah 53
“Who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” This chapter begins with these two questions, and then throughout its 12 verses describes the suffering servant: nothing noteworthy about his appearance (verse 2); despised and rejected by others; a man of suffering and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom others hide their faces he was despised, and we held him of no account. (verse 3) Surely he has borne our infirmities and carried our diseases (verse 4). But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. (verse 5) And all we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way. And the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. (verse 6)
Here in this one chapter there is such a richness of prophecy concerning Jesus. Reading and copying these verses reminds me of how in his day the religious people did not recognize who Jesus was, they disregarded him, rejected him, hurt him, and finally killed him. Now, 2000 years later, I am a beneficiary of his suffering and privileged to share the good news that he has died for me and for everyone who by grace through faith recognizes that He is the son of God.
Guide me today, most precious Lord, as I live a servant life, following in your footsteps. Not my will, but your will be done in my life, and through me that others will know the reality of your salvation, and the sweet eternal fellowship of your love.
The weather has been very consistent these last few days, with the morning low around 71, and the afternoon high around 91. As Steve and I plan to leave on our 4-day trip tomorrow afternoon, it appears that the weather will be favorable for our ride through Kansas and Colorado. This morning we will meet for breakfast and final planning. Yesterday I made good progress in the role of pastor, working with focus and purpose all day. I had a great conversation with Steve Rankin, (Chaplain at SMU in Dallas) about the process of discipleship in a congregation, and the book which he has written along with the pilot program developing at Lover’s Lane UMC in Dallas. I proposed that we might use his book for our spring life group series.
Isaiah 53
“Who has believed our report? And to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” This chapter begins with these two questions, and then throughout its 12 verses describes the suffering servant: nothing noteworthy about his appearance (verse 2); despised and rejected by others; a man of suffering and acquainted with grief; and as one from whom others hide their faces he was despised, and we held him of no account. (verse 3) Surely he has borne our infirmities and carried our diseases (verse 4). But he was wounded for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities; upon him was the punishment that made us whole, and by his bruises we are healed. (verse 5) And all we like sheep have gone astray; we have all turned to our own way. And the Lord has laid on him the iniquity of us all. (verse 6)
Here in this one chapter there is such a richness of prophecy concerning Jesus. Reading and copying these verses reminds me of how in his day the religious people did not recognize who Jesus was, they disregarded him, rejected him, hurt him, and finally killed him. Now, 2000 years later, I am a beneficiary of his suffering and privileged to share the good news that he has died for me and for everyone who by grace through faith recognizes that He is the son of God.
Guide me today, most precious Lord, as I live a servant life, following in your footsteps. Not my will, but your will be done in my life, and through me that others will know the reality of your salvation, and the sweet eternal fellowship of your love.
Friday, June 10, 2011
June 10, 2011
6-10-11 Friday, 7:19 am Springfield, 72 degrees, partly cloudy
One week ago today was the official start of the Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. I am thankful for the structure of our denomination, and especially for the leadership in Missouri, from Bishop Schnase through the district superintendents and the conference staff. I am hopeful for the future, and supportive of the emphasis upon the local church making disciples. Today I will write my study guide for week two of Isaiah, write my sermon, film a teaching session for next week, visit a gunshot victim in the hospital, and begin to prepare for the motorcycle trip next week.
Acts 7:30-50
Stephen’s speech to the Jewish council after his arrest. In these verses he recounts the call of Moses, and the leadership Moses provided to the Israelites as God delivered them from Egypt (about 1400 years previous to Stephen and this council.) Stephen recalls the tendency to divert from following God by making idols – such as the golden calf Aaron allowed in the wilderness. Verses 42-43 from The Message says: “God wasn’t at all pleased; but he let them do it their way, worship every new god that came down the pike – and live with the consequences, consequences described by the prophet Amos: Did you bring me offerings of animals and grains those forty wilderness years, O Israel? Hardly. You were too busy building shrines to war gods, to sex goddesses, worshiping them with all your might. That’s why I put you in exile in Babylon.”
It is good for me to read Stephen’s speech this morning, and his recounting of the rebellion by the Israelites. In verses 49-50 he quotes from Isaiah 66 in which God declares that heaven is His footstool, and thus what kind of house could humans build for Him? Today I live in a time in which humans are so proud of their corporate accomplishments, and at the same time empty and searching for meaning and purpose. God’s word, inspired by the Holy Spirit and working through the church, the Body of Christ is powerful, and I have the privilege today of devoting myself to the ministry of the Word and to prayer.
Guide me Holy Lord as I serve You today, June 10, 2011.
One week ago today was the official start of the Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church. I am thankful for the structure of our denomination, and especially for the leadership in Missouri, from Bishop Schnase through the district superintendents and the conference staff. I am hopeful for the future, and supportive of the emphasis upon the local church making disciples. Today I will write my study guide for week two of Isaiah, write my sermon, film a teaching session for next week, visit a gunshot victim in the hospital, and begin to prepare for the motorcycle trip next week.
Acts 7:30-50
Stephen’s speech to the Jewish council after his arrest. In these verses he recounts the call of Moses, and the leadership Moses provided to the Israelites as God delivered them from Egypt (about 1400 years previous to Stephen and this council.) Stephen recalls the tendency to divert from following God by making idols – such as the golden calf Aaron allowed in the wilderness. Verses 42-43 from The Message says: “God wasn’t at all pleased; but he let them do it their way, worship every new god that came down the pike – and live with the consequences, consequences described by the prophet Amos: Did you bring me offerings of animals and grains those forty wilderness years, O Israel? Hardly. You were too busy building shrines to war gods, to sex goddesses, worshiping them with all your might. That’s why I put you in exile in Babylon.”
It is good for me to read Stephen’s speech this morning, and his recounting of the rebellion by the Israelites. In verses 49-50 he quotes from Isaiah 66 in which God declares that heaven is His footstool, and thus what kind of house could humans build for Him? Today I live in a time in which humans are so proud of their corporate accomplishments, and at the same time empty and searching for meaning and purpose. God’s word, inspired by the Holy Spirit and working through the church, the Body of Christ is powerful, and I have the privilege today of devoting myself to the ministry of the Word and to prayer.
Guide me Holy Lord as I serve You today, June 10, 2011.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
JUne 8, 2011
6-8-11 Wednesday, 6:07 am Springfield, 73 degrees, clear.
I am still recovering from the 5 days of Annual Conference. Yesterday I started early with a breakfast meeting and ended late after our life group met at church, and then Audrey and I greeted the youth work camp staying at Wesley. Through the middle of the day I ran 3 miles, mowed the back yard and in the garden got the tomato cages in place for my growing plants. The okra and zucchini have sprouted and are doing well in this heat.
Today I will work on sermon planning, worship planning, and development of the 4 week Bible study of Isaiah. I have 40 people signed up for this study. On Sunday afternoon Steve and I will head out on a four day motorcycle trip through Kansas and Colorado. I am looking forward to riding hard and getting into the mountains. We have been planning a trip like this for several years.
Acts 6
The disciples were increasing in number, and a problem arose concerning the daily serving of food. The Hellenistic (Greek) Jews felt their widows were being overlooked in preference to the native Hebrews. The twelve gathered the congregation and addressed the problem directly. They discerned that their primary role was prayer and the ministry of the word, and thus had the congregations select seven men of good reputation to put in charge of the task of the daily feeding. Stephen, Phillip, and 5 others were selected; the apostles prayed and laid their hands on them, thus establishing the first deacons in the church.
This is a most interesting account of life in the body of Christ at a very early stage. It has many implications for the church today. One take away for me this morning is a reminder of the role of prayer and the ministry of the word that is primary for clergy. It is so easy to get distracted in the details of operations in a faith community and neglect the vital and primary role of prayer and scripture. Today I will pray with a new mother at St. John’s Hospital, then at Wesley we will have prayer at 9, worship planning around the Word of God at 10:30, and tonight I have the privilege of teaching from Isaiah, the first of a four week series.
Guide me Holy Lord today as I pray and serve in the ministry of the word. Thank you for the 6th chapter of Acts, and the reminder of the spiritual priorities you have set out for spiritual leaders. Thank you for Eugene Peterson and his work in writing The Unnecessary Pastor. Guard me from bogging down in the details, and guard me from ignoring the needs. Give me the wisdom and discernment which the apostles exercised.
I am still recovering from the 5 days of Annual Conference. Yesterday I started early with a breakfast meeting and ended late after our life group met at church, and then Audrey and I greeted the youth work camp staying at Wesley. Through the middle of the day I ran 3 miles, mowed the back yard and in the garden got the tomato cages in place for my growing plants. The okra and zucchini have sprouted and are doing well in this heat.
Today I will work on sermon planning, worship planning, and development of the 4 week Bible study of Isaiah. I have 40 people signed up for this study. On Sunday afternoon Steve and I will head out on a four day motorcycle trip through Kansas and Colorado. I am looking forward to riding hard and getting into the mountains. We have been planning a trip like this for several years.
Acts 6
The disciples were increasing in number, and a problem arose concerning the daily serving of food. The Hellenistic (Greek) Jews felt their widows were being overlooked in preference to the native Hebrews. The twelve gathered the congregation and addressed the problem directly. They discerned that their primary role was prayer and the ministry of the word, and thus had the congregations select seven men of good reputation to put in charge of the task of the daily feeding. Stephen, Phillip, and 5 others were selected; the apostles prayed and laid their hands on them, thus establishing the first deacons in the church.
This is a most interesting account of life in the body of Christ at a very early stage. It has many implications for the church today. One take away for me this morning is a reminder of the role of prayer and the ministry of the word that is primary for clergy. It is so easy to get distracted in the details of operations in a faith community and neglect the vital and primary role of prayer and scripture. Today I will pray with a new mother at St. John’s Hospital, then at Wesley we will have prayer at 9, worship planning around the Word of God at 10:30, and tonight I have the privilege of teaching from Isaiah, the first of a four week series.
Guide me Holy Lord today as I pray and serve in the ministry of the word. Thank you for the 6th chapter of Acts, and the reminder of the spiritual priorities you have set out for spiritual leaders. Thank you for Eugene Peterson and his work in writing The Unnecessary Pastor. Guard me from bogging down in the details, and guard me from ignoring the needs. Give me the wisdom and discernment which the apostles exercised.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
June 7, 2011
6-7-11 Tuesday, 6:28 am Springfield
Yesterday we closed Annual Conference and prayed the Wesleyan Covenant prayer - I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed for thee or laid aside for thee, exalted for thee or brought low for thee. Let me be full, let me be empty … As we voted for delegates for our delegation to General and Jurisdictional conference, I received the most votes of anyone not elected. I experienced a sense of relief that my calendar would not include trips to Columbia throughout the year etc. I am “ranked” according to God’s plan, and this prayer.
Last night I visited the emergency room where one of our children was being treated for snakebite. Around 8 last night she was bitten on the hand by a copperhead. She was doing well. I will meet with a younger pastor this morning for breakfast and learn of his journey. Worship planning, leadership planning, and our small group round out the rest of Tuesday. I am looking forward to being back in the office now that Conference is over.
Acts 5
Ananias and Sapphira sell some land and then lie to the church about how much it sold for. They did this so they could hold some of the proceeds back, and appear to give all to the church. Each one was struck dead in the presence of Peter as they lied before the church. This is always a troubling account for me to read. As I read it this morning, it seems as though these two were buried so quickly, I wondered if they were really dead. The basic take-away for me is that God is powerful, not to be trifled with, and following Him as a disciple of Jesus Christ is serious and all-consuming.
Guide my steps today Lord as I serve you with joy as a pastor in Springfield.
Yesterday we closed Annual Conference and prayed the Wesleyan Covenant prayer - I am no longer my own, but thine. Put me to what thou wilt, rank me with whom thou wilt. Put me to doing, put me to suffering. Let me be employed for thee or laid aside for thee, exalted for thee or brought low for thee. Let me be full, let me be empty … As we voted for delegates for our delegation to General and Jurisdictional conference, I received the most votes of anyone not elected. I experienced a sense of relief that my calendar would not include trips to Columbia throughout the year etc. I am “ranked” according to God’s plan, and this prayer.
Last night I visited the emergency room where one of our children was being treated for snakebite. Around 8 last night she was bitten on the hand by a copperhead. She was doing well. I will meet with a younger pastor this morning for breakfast and learn of his journey. Worship planning, leadership planning, and our small group round out the rest of Tuesday. I am looking forward to being back in the office now that Conference is over.
Acts 5
Ananias and Sapphira sell some land and then lie to the church about how much it sold for. They did this so they could hold some of the proceeds back, and appear to give all to the church. Each one was struck dead in the presence of Peter as they lied before the church. This is always a troubling account for me to read. As I read it this morning, it seems as though these two were buried so quickly, I wondered if they were really dead. The basic take-away for me is that God is powerful, not to be trifled with, and following Him as a disciple of Jesus Christ is serious and all-consuming.
Guide my steps today Lord as I serve you with joy as a pastor in Springfield.
Monday, June 6, 2011
June 6, 2011
6-6-11 Monday, 5:43 am Springfield, 71 degrees, clear and humid
My morning journaling and devotions have been hampered by my schedule affected by five days of Annual Conference meeting here in Springfield. Yesterday we had a very good Sunday at Wesley, even as our youth are travelling in Tennessee, our choir was singing downtown at Annual Conference, and our hospitality team was hosting Annual Conference. I started a four-part series on Isaiah, and will be teaching the next four Wednesday nights on the prophet.
Yesterday I had a most interesting conversation over dinner with Joe Dongell. Toward the end we discussed the M. Div. degree and the increasing percentage of seminary students who are not interested in the pastorate (now 50% or higher), but rather in a specialized ministry. I have so many unfinished thoughts from this conversation that perhaps I should write an essay to help clarify. The topics would include: why is there a decline in pastor-bound students? What is there about the current state of the church that is failing to attract the best and brightest to the ministry? What is the best role for the seminary? How can called and gifted professors keep from pointing students toward academia, and point them toward the pastorate? How can I as a pastor and a scholar make a positive, unselfish contribution to this dilemma? How can we alumni support the work of academia and cultivate the call in young followers of Christ? How can healthy, vital congregations impact the call and cultivation of the next generation of pastoral leaders? What is the best use of 72 or 96 graduate hours of instruction in the formation of a pastor? What are the new opportunities for seminaries to instruct and train lay women and men for servant leadership in the church? Many things to think about!
I Kings 1-2
David, as an old man, hands the kingdom to his son Solomon, even as his son Adonijah was establishing himself as king, gaining the loyalty of Joab, the commander of the army, and Abiathar the priest. “But Zadok the priest, Benaiah the son of Jehoaiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and the mighty men who belonged to David, were not with Adonijah.” (verse 8) It is Nathan who instigates the conversation with Bathsheba to approach the elderly king David concerning his previous promise to hand the throne to her son Solomon. She does so, David responds favorably, and Solomon is crowned king, even as Adonijah is hosting a feast in his own honor. Adonijah’s supporters scatter, and he realizes his life is in jeopardy.
Reading these two chapters, as we are in the middle of the annual conference election of delegates to General and Jurisdictional conference, makes relevant the issues of leadership and succession in the church. Selecting the next bishop(s) begins with the election of delegates to General Conference, as the first delegate elected is considered likely to be a candidate for bishop. During this coming year, potential candidates for bishop will emerge from the annual conferences, and at the Jurisdictional conferences around the country next summer there will be the elections which determine who the incoming bishops will be. Our nation is also in the early stages of preparing to elect the next president, whether it be a second term for Obama, or a first term for someone who challenges and defeats him in the national election in Nov, 2012.
Lord, I am not in the loop for being elected to significant leadership in the church. You have called me to be a pastor, and a faithful, servant of the church I desire to be. Guide me as I journey with you during this part of my life, seeking to live with my single loyalty being to You and Your purpose for my life. Take my life and let it be, consecrated Lord to thee. Take my moments and my days, let them flow in ceaseless praise!
My morning journaling and devotions have been hampered by my schedule affected by five days of Annual Conference meeting here in Springfield. Yesterday we had a very good Sunday at Wesley, even as our youth are travelling in Tennessee, our choir was singing downtown at Annual Conference, and our hospitality team was hosting Annual Conference. I started a four-part series on Isaiah, and will be teaching the next four Wednesday nights on the prophet.
Yesterday I had a most interesting conversation over dinner with Joe Dongell. Toward the end we discussed the M. Div. degree and the increasing percentage of seminary students who are not interested in the pastorate (now 50% or higher), but rather in a specialized ministry. I have so many unfinished thoughts from this conversation that perhaps I should write an essay to help clarify. The topics would include: why is there a decline in pastor-bound students? What is there about the current state of the church that is failing to attract the best and brightest to the ministry? What is the best role for the seminary? How can called and gifted professors keep from pointing students toward academia, and point them toward the pastorate? How can I as a pastor and a scholar make a positive, unselfish contribution to this dilemma? How can we alumni support the work of academia and cultivate the call in young followers of Christ? How can healthy, vital congregations impact the call and cultivation of the next generation of pastoral leaders? What is the best use of 72 or 96 graduate hours of instruction in the formation of a pastor? What are the new opportunities for seminaries to instruct and train lay women and men for servant leadership in the church? Many things to think about!
I Kings 1-2
David, as an old man, hands the kingdom to his son Solomon, even as his son Adonijah was establishing himself as king, gaining the loyalty of Joab, the commander of the army, and Abiathar the priest. “But Zadok the priest, Benaiah the son of Jehoaiada, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, Rei, and the mighty men who belonged to David, were not with Adonijah.” (verse 8) It is Nathan who instigates the conversation with Bathsheba to approach the elderly king David concerning his previous promise to hand the throne to her son Solomon. She does so, David responds favorably, and Solomon is crowned king, even as Adonijah is hosting a feast in his own honor. Adonijah’s supporters scatter, and he realizes his life is in jeopardy.
Reading these two chapters, as we are in the middle of the annual conference election of delegates to General and Jurisdictional conference, makes relevant the issues of leadership and succession in the church. Selecting the next bishop(s) begins with the election of delegates to General Conference, as the first delegate elected is considered likely to be a candidate for bishop. During this coming year, potential candidates for bishop will emerge from the annual conferences, and at the Jurisdictional conferences around the country next summer there will be the elections which determine who the incoming bishops will be. Our nation is also in the early stages of preparing to elect the next president, whether it be a second term for Obama, or a first term for someone who challenges and defeats him in the national election in Nov, 2012.
Lord, I am not in the loop for being elected to significant leadership in the church. You have called me to be a pastor, and a faithful, servant of the church I desire to be. Guide me as I journey with you during this part of my life, seeking to live with my single loyalty being to You and Your purpose for my life. Take my life and let it be, consecrated Lord to thee. Take my moments and my days, let them flow in ceaseless praise!
Friday, June 3, 2011
June 3, 2011
6-3-11 Friday, 6:36 am Springfield, 72 degrees, clear
Today is the first day of Annual Conference. Yesterday I worked at Wesley in the morning, had lunch with Jerry, then three “preliminary” meetings for the work of the Annual Conference – the Board of Ordained Ministry, the Healthy Church Initiative, and the College Age Ministries. In the evening Audrey and I attended a dinner for the Board of Ordained Ministry and guests, held at Kingsway UMC. Tomorrow I host the Asbury Seminary luncheon at St. Paul UMC in downtown Springfield.
This morning I have been compiling a devotional reading guide for a bulletin insert to accompany the four-part Isaiah series I start this weekend. I am using notes from my daily devotions in January – March. I look forward to leading this series.
Acts 1 (From The One Year Bible for June 3)
The continuation of the writing of Luke, addressed to Theophilus as an eye witness account of the events following the resurrection of Christ. He appeared to the apostles over a period of 40 days, “speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God.” Jesus gathered them together and told them to wait for what the Father had promised. In verse 8 He says “you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
In verses 15-26 is the account of the brethren (about 120 persons in the upper room) led by Peter to select a replacement apostle for Judas. Two men were nominated, Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. They drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias, “and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” I have often wondered if this was a premature replacement of Judas, and that when Paul was raised up by God, he could have become the 12th apostle, if that spot had still been open. Today and for the next 3 days at Annual Conference we will elect delegates to the General and Jurisdictional Conferences. It will be interesting to observe this process. During the last election, 4 years ago, I was elected as a delegate to the Jurisdictional conference.
Lord today may I be empowered by your Holy Spirit to be your witness in Springfield, in all Missouri, and even to the remotest part of the earth, in the blessed name of Jesus the Christ.
Today is the first day of Annual Conference. Yesterday I worked at Wesley in the morning, had lunch with Jerry, then three “preliminary” meetings for the work of the Annual Conference – the Board of Ordained Ministry, the Healthy Church Initiative, and the College Age Ministries. In the evening Audrey and I attended a dinner for the Board of Ordained Ministry and guests, held at Kingsway UMC. Tomorrow I host the Asbury Seminary luncheon at St. Paul UMC in downtown Springfield.
This morning I have been compiling a devotional reading guide for a bulletin insert to accompany the four-part Isaiah series I start this weekend. I am using notes from my daily devotions in January – March. I look forward to leading this series.
Acts 1 (From The One Year Bible for June 3)
The continuation of the writing of Luke, addressed to Theophilus as an eye witness account of the events following the resurrection of Christ. He appeared to the apostles over a period of 40 days, “speaking of the things concerning the kingdom of God.” Jesus gathered them together and told them to wait for what the Father had promised. In verse 8 He says “you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth.”
In verses 15-26 is the account of the brethren (about 120 persons in the upper room) led by Peter to select a replacement apostle for Judas. Two men were nominated, Joseph called Barsabbas and Matthias. They drew lots for them, and the lot fell to Matthias, “and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.” I have often wondered if this was a premature replacement of Judas, and that when Paul was raised up by God, he could have become the 12th apostle, if that spot had still been open. Today and for the next 3 days at Annual Conference we will elect delegates to the General and Jurisdictional Conferences. It will be interesting to observe this process. During the last election, 4 years ago, I was elected as a delegate to the Jurisdictional conference.
Lord today may I be empowered by your Holy Spirit to be your witness in Springfield, in all Missouri, and even to the remotest part of the earth, in the blessed name of Jesus the Christ.
Thursday, June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011
June 2, 2011 Thursday, 6:53 am Springfield, 72 degrees.
Today I begin attending meetings for Annual Conference, which formally begins tomorrow. This will be my 30th Annual Conference, and I look forward to the friendships and relationships that will be nurtured during the next 5 days. I am hosting a lunch on Saturday, and lost some sleep last night over that event as I was thinking of details still to check on (such as drinks, sound system, etc.) This is the first year that I have served on the ordained ministry team, which has a large role during the conference with an afternoon meeting today, dinner tonight, and the ordination service on Saturday night. At this point I do not have a leadership role on that conference team, though I do chair the district Ordained Ministry Team.
II Sam 19:11 – 20:13
David’s physical return to Jerusalem, and his return to power as King over the twelve tribes. These chapters contain the nitty gritty of personal loyalties, revenge, positioning, maneuvering. The murder of David’s chosen commander Amasa by the current commander Joab finishes today’s reading in a blood bath. I am thinking about politics and violence in the world today, and all that it involves. Who will be the next leader assassinated, the next rebellion led by an aspiring dictator? I have been concerned that president Obama is a vulnerable target of violence as the language of political debate is so harsh in our country.
Guide my work Lord as I serve You as a shepherd of Your sheep, seeking the lost, caring for the flock, developing fruitful disciples of You who worship, care and serve. Guard me from distraction and paralysis as there are so many details and relationships to care for.
Today I begin attending meetings for Annual Conference, which formally begins tomorrow. This will be my 30th Annual Conference, and I look forward to the friendships and relationships that will be nurtured during the next 5 days. I am hosting a lunch on Saturday, and lost some sleep last night over that event as I was thinking of details still to check on (such as drinks, sound system, etc.) This is the first year that I have served on the ordained ministry team, which has a large role during the conference with an afternoon meeting today, dinner tonight, and the ordination service on Saturday night. At this point I do not have a leadership role on that conference team, though I do chair the district Ordained Ministry Team.
II Sam 19:11 – 20:13
David’s physical return to Jerusalem, and his return to power as King over the twelve tribes. These chapters contain the nitty gritty of personal loyalties, revenge, positioning, maneuvering. The murder of David’s chosen commander Amasa by the current commander Joab finishes today’s reading in a blood bath. I am thinking about politics and violence in the world today, and all that it involves. Who will be the next leader assassinated, the next rebellion led by an aspiring dictator? I have been concerned that president Obama is a vulnerable target of violence as the language of political debate is so harsh in our country.
Guide my work Lord as I serve You as a shepherd of Your sheep, seeking the lost, caring for the flock, developing fruitful disciples of You who worship, care and serve. Guard me from distraction and paralysis as there are so many details and relationships to care for.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
June 1, 2011
June 1, 2011 Wednesday, 5:53 am Springfield, 72 muggy degrees.
A new month, the beginning of a long, hot summer, United Methodist Annual Conference comes to town. I am always energized by the start of a new month. Each month has its own feel. My dad would often say “And what is so rare as a day in June/Then, if ever, come perfect days.” I have since learned via the internet that these are words penned by the poet James Russell Lowell (February 22, 1819 – August 12, 1891).
2 Sam 18 -19:10
David organizes his troops with leaders of thousands and leaders of hundreds. Planning to go to battle with them, they convince him to stay put while they confront the troops of Israel under the rebel king Absalom, David’s son. He gives instruction to his three generals, not to harm Absalom. As the fighting unfolds, the forest of Ephraim consumes more lives than does the battle. 20,000 men are killed.
Absalom gets hung up in a low tree as his mule went under the thick branches of an oak. He was found, and Joab thrust him through with three spears, and he was finished off by the ten young men who carried Joab’s armor (18:14-15). The troops of Israel fled, and Joab sent word to David by a runner, the Cushite. Ahimaaz wanted to carry the news, and Joab eventually relented, and let him go also. When David received the message that his forces had been victorious, and that Absalom was dead, he grieved for his son. This caused the troops to be ashamed, and infuriated his commander Joab. Joab spoke his mind to David, who arose and went to the gate to speak to the troops and people gathered.
David continued to lead with authority and to command with cunning, even as he is on the run from his son who has usurped the throne. This reminds me that under all conditions, the servants of God must keep making progress, using the gifts they have been given, and no matter how hard it gets, continue to trust God and lead with authority and courage.
Thank you Lord for the “charge to keep I have,” as pastor, teacher, leader of a great company of disciples called Wesley United Methodist Church. These 4 years have gone by rapidly. Guide me as I approach Annual Conference and the weeks and months ahead. Guard me from anything that would sidetrack or subvert the course upon which You have set my feet.
A new month, the beginning of a long, hot summer, United Methodist Annual Conference comes to town. I am always energized by the start of a new month. Each month has its own feel. My dad would often say “And what is so rare as a day in June/Then, if ever, come perfect days.” I have since learned via the internet that these are words penned by the poet James Russell Lowell (February 22, 1819 – August 12, 1891).
2 Sam 18 -19:10
David organizes his troops with leaders of thousands and leaders of hundreds. Planning to go to battle with them, they convince him to stay put while they confront the troops of Israel under the rebel king Absalom, David’s son. He gives instruction to his three generals, not to harm Absalom. As the fighting unfolds, the forest of Ephraim consumes more lives than does the battle. 20,000 men are killed.
Absalom gets hung up in a low tree as his mule went under the thick branches of an oak. He was found, and Joab thrust him through with three spears, and he was finished off by the ten young men who carried Joab’s armor (18:14-15). The troops of Israel fled, and Joab sent word to David by a runner, the Cushite. Ahimaaz wanted to carry the news, and Joab eventually relented, and let him go also. When David received the message that his forces had been victorious, and that Absalom was dead, he grieved for his son. This caused the troops to be ashamed, and infuriated his commander Joab. Joab spoke his mind to David, who arose and went to the gate to speak to the troops and people gathered.
David continued to lead with authority and to command with cunning, even as he is on the run from his son who has usurped the throne. This reminds me that under all conditions, the servants of God must keep making progress, using the gifts they have been given, and no matter how hard it gets, continue to trust God and lead with authority and courage.
Thank you Lord for the “charge to keep I have,” as pastor, teacher, leader of a great company of disciples called Wesley United Methodist Church. These 4 years have gone by rapidly. Guide me as I approach Annual Conference and the weeks and months ahead. Guard me from anything that would sidetrack or subvert the course upon which You have set my feet.
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