6-12-10 Saturday, 8:05 am Grayrock, 75 degrees, high clouds, humid.
It was good to be back at the office yesterday, working as pastor of Wesley UMC. I developed my sermon outline, answered email, caught up with pastor Jerry, visited a motorcycle accident injury in the ICU, walked through a 50th anniversary rehearsal for today’s service, and in general nurtured along the work of Christ through the church. Today I have the 3:30 wedding renewal service, and a 6:30 session with a Sunday school class around the book The Shack. I will be preparing for both of these this morning. I am also looking forward to finalizing my sermon prep for the first part of “Running with Jonah”.
I Kgs 9:1 – 10:29
Solomon finishes the Temple and his own royal palace, twenty years under construction. He gives king Hiram 20 towns in Galilee, which Hiram deems worthless and calls the area Cabul (worthless). The queen of Sheba comes to visit Solomon, having heard about his wisdom. Solomon receives 25 tons of gold annually in taxes and revenues. He developed a fleet of trading ships. Once every three years the ships returned, loaded with gold, silver, ivory, apes, and peacocks. He bought chariots and horses at the going rate from Egypt and Cilicia.
This section of scripture reads like a corporate annual report. It is interesting to get a glimpse of the business dealings, wisdom, and wealth of king Solomon. My takeaway today is to be wise, careful, and prudent in the business and stewardship of “stuff” entrusted to me. I have just made a list of 12 such items I need to work on.
Psalm 130
“From the depths of despair, O Lord, I call for your help. Hear my cry, O Lord.” This could have been Jonah’s prayer. In fact, this could be Jonah’s Psalm. Verse 3 “Lord, if you kept a record of our sins, who, O Lord, could ever survive? But you offer forgiveness, that we might learn to forgive you.
Thank you Lord for your word today. Guide me as I serve you through the role of pastor in the 21st century, here in southwest Missouri. I desire to bring your presence, your power, your wisdom, your glory fully into the midst of this current generation. I am yours, most Holy Lord.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Friday, June 11, 2010
June 11, 2010
6-11-10 Friday, 7:32 am Grayrock deck, 72 degrees, light rain
I have so much to reflect upon. On Tuesday morning I flew a small plane to Mansfield, Ohio and dropped in our youth choir tour. I caught up with them in Galion at the Saint Theodore House, a Greek Orthodox monastery with three brothers and a catechumen. The monastery was the estate home of the founders of a heavy equipment manufacturer related to Pam Pyeatt. The youth had spent the afternoon cleaning, sorting, remodeling as the monks desire to increase the number of guest rooms. We attended vespers and then were treated to a delicious meal. On Wednesday, the youth led day three of vacation Bible School in the park, as it rained most of the morning. The afternoon was spent at a therapeutic equestrian center in Mansfield. This had been the estate home of wealthy folks in the early 20th century. I learned how to clean a horse stall using a fork, preserving as much of the sawdust as possible. It was really like a large cat box project! In the evening we were served dinner at a Presbyterian church, attended a Bible study by their pastor, and played games with their youth group. I demonstrated my abilities at the pool table.
Yesterday I arose early, and flew to Davies County airport in Washington, Indiana and met my brother John. He showed me around the area, including his trailer, garden, hunting and fishing grounds. He has a delightful arrangement with the owner of a large farm tucked away adjacent to a wildlife area and bordered by the White River. We shared lunch together and lots of stories. It was good to catch up with him. My 3 ½ flight home was long, I had to dodge some rain showers, and had a headwind. The trip was most fruitful, and I am so glad I was able to make this investment in the ministries of our youth.
Acts 8
Saul persecutes the church, Philip preaches in Samaria and then leads the Ethiopian eunuch to Christ and baptism. This is a great chapter with powerful ministries changing lives. Reading it this morning with the Orthodox monastery in view creates an interesting context. The monks see themselves as connected historically to the early church more directly than others. I must continually attend to the faith community called Wesley, and keep us connected to Christ, to the historical church, and to the context of this present age with its people, problems, and possibilities. Guide me today, holy Lord.
I have so much to reflect upon. On Tuesday morning I flew a small plane to Mansfield, Ohio and dropped in our youth choir tour. I caught up with them in Galion at the Saint Theodore House, a Greek Orthodox monastery with three brothers and a catechumen. The monastery was the estate home of the founders of a heavy equipment manufacturer related to Pam Pyeatt. The youth had spent the afternoon cleaning, sorting, remodeling as the monks desire to increase the number of guest rooms. We attended vespers and then were treated to a delicious meal. On Wednesday, the youth led day three of vacation Bible School in the park, as it rained most of the morning. The afternoon was spent at a therapeutic equestrian center in Mansfield. This had been the estate home of wealthy folks in the early 20th century. I learned how to clean a horse stall using a fork, preserving as much of the sawdust as possible. It was really like a large cat box project! In the evening we were served dinner at a Presbyterian church, attended a Bible study by their pastor, and played games with their youth group. I demonstrated my abilities at the pool table.
Yesterday I arose early, and flew to Davies County airport in Washington, Indiana and met my brother John. He showed me around the area, including his trailer, garden, hunting and fishing grounds. He has a delightful arrangement with the owner of a large farm tucked away adjacent to a wildlife area and bordered by the White River. We shared lunch together and lots of stories. It was good to catch up with him. My 3 ½ flight home was long, I had to dodge some rain showers, and had a headwind. The trip was most fruitful, and I am so glad I was able to make this investment in the ministries of our youth.
Acts 8
Saul persecutes the church, Philip preaches in Samaria and then leads the Ethiopian eunuch to Christ and baptism. This is a great chapter with powerful ministries changing lives. Reading it this morning with the Orthodox monastery in view creates an interesting context. The monks see themselves as connected historically to the early church more directly than others. I must continually attend to the faith community called Wesley, and keep us connected to Christ, to the historical church, and to the context of this present age with its people, problems, and possibilities. Guide me today, holy Lord.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 8, 2010
6-8-10 Monday, 6:17 am Grayrock, 67 degrees, clear
Today I fly to northern Ohio to catch up with our youth choir on their mission trip. I have N6005U reserved through Friday. The weather looks to be VFR all along the route. The airport in Galion is closed today, but there is one 10 miles away that will work fine. On Thursday I will visit my brother John in rural southern Indiana on my way home. I will not have my laptop, so this will be my last journal entry/blog until Friday.
I Kings 3:3 – 4:34
In a dream God asks Solomon what he desired. Rather than wealth or fame or long life, he asked for wisdom to govern Israel. God was pleased with this request, and said “I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have”. God also promised him riches and fame. Solomon used this wisdom when two women came to him arguing over a baby. They each claimed the baby was hers, and that the other’s baby had died. Solomon requested a sword, and announced he would cut the baby in two and give each half. The real mother declined, asking him to give the baby to the other. He discerned that the woman who wanted the baby to live was the actual mother, and gave her the baby. His reputation for wisdom spread.
I desire to grow in knowledge and wisdom. I need wisdom to lead God’s people, to shepherd the flock called Wesley UMC, and to grow in fruitfulness. Guide me holy Lord as I seek your wisdom every day.
Today I fly to northern Ohio to catch up with our youth choir on their mission trip. I have N6005U reserved through Friday. The weather looks to be VFR all along the route. The airport in Galion is closed today, but there is one 10 miles away that will work fine. On Thursday I will visit my brother John in rural southern Indiana on my way home. I will not have my laptop, so this will be my last journal entry/blog until Friday.
I Kings 3:3 – 4:34
In a dream God asks Solomon what he desired. Rather than wealth or fame or long life, he asked for wisdom to govern Israel. God was pleased with this request, and said “I will give you a wise and understanding heart such as no one else has had or ever will have”. God also promised him riches and fame. Solomon used this wisdom when two women came to him arguing over a baby. They each claimed the baby was hers, and that the other’s baby had died. Solomon requested a sword, and announced he would cut the baby in two and give each half. The real mother declined, asking him to give the baby to the other. He discerned that the woman who wanted the baby to live was the actual mother, and gave her the baby. His reputation for wisdom spread.
I desire to grow in knowledge and wisdom. I need wisdom to lead God’s people, to shepherd the flock called Wesley UMC, and to grow in fruitfulness. Guide me holy Lord as I seek your wisdom every day.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
June 6, 2010
6-6-10 Sunday, 6:33 am Grayrock, clear, 65 degrees.
Today will be the third day of Annual Conference. I will stop by Wesley and attend the 7:45 coordination meeting for the morning of worship services. At 9:00 Bishop Schnase is teaching on his new book. Robin Roderick is preaching at 10:30, and the Wesley flutes are part of worship. Last night’s ordination service was really good, with Bishop Hayes from Oklahoma preaching on “Membership Has Its Privileges”. His text was the Gospel in which Jesus states “take up your cross and follow me”.
I Kings 1:1-53
David is very old. His son Adonijah tries to take his throne by succession. Nathan and Bathseba remind David of his promise that Solomon will follow him, so they meet with David and he establishes Solomon as his successor. (David had never disciplined Adonijah at any time verse 6.) As I witness the ordination of younger clergy, and experience the aging process, I realize that healthy succession is so important. Guide me as I serve the church through my encouragement and support of younger clergy, most holy Lord.
Today will be the third day of Annual Conference. I will stop by Wesley and attend the 7:45 coordination meeting for the morning of worship services. At 9:00 Bishop Schnase is teaching on his new book. Robin Roderick is preaching at 10:30, and the Wesley flutes are part of worship. Last night’s ordination service was really good, with Bishop Hayes from Oklahoma preaching on “Membership Has Its Privileges”. His text was the Gospel in which Jesus states “take up your cross and follow me”.
I Kings 1:1-53
David is very old. His son Adonijah tries to take his throne by succession. Nathan and Bathseba remind David of his promise that Solomon will follow him, so they meet with David and he establishes Solomon as his successor. (David had never disciplined Adonijah at any time verse 6.) As I witness the ordination of younger clergy, and experience the aging process, I realize that healthy succession is so important. Guide me as I serve the church through my encouragement and support of younger clergy, most holy Lord.
Friday, June 4, 2010
June 4, 2010
6-4-10 Friday, 6:54 am Grayrock, 67 degrees, clear
Today the Missouri Annual Conference begins here in Springfield at the convention center. My role includes – hosting a table of grace tonight, hosting the Asbury Seminary Alumni lunch tomorrow at Schweitzer, and laying hands on a pastor being ordained Saturday night. I am looking forward to hearing the bishop’s remarks and catching up with longstanding friendships. Guide me holy Lord in all my conference connections.
II Sam 22 – 23:23 The words of a song of David which praises God for His deliverance and help. This chapter is very similar to one of the psalms of David.
23:8-23 is a tribute to David’s three mightiest warriors, and the Thirty. Reading this chapter, as I have in the past reminds me of the importance of a strong team, and of celebrating and naming the work of individuals as part of the greater cause. As a pastor I see great value in this example.
I am reflecting on my work of the last 20 years. For 14 years I was the founding pastor of SunRise, including the birthing of Morning Star. For 3 years I served on the conference staff directing congregational development, and for the last 3 years I have been pastoring Wesley, the 8th largest church in the conference. Having chaired conference teams, served on the conference council, and the extended cabinet, my role now is focusing more fully on the local church. I am enjoying having fewer conference responsibilities, and expect that in the future these will expand, especially as I will be nominated this conference to serve on the Ordained Ministry Team. Guide me Holy Lord as I serve you today.
Today the Missouri Annual Conference begins here in Springfield at the convention center. My role includes – hosting a table of grace tonight, hosting the Asbury Seminary Alumni lunch tomorrow at Schweitzer, and laying hands on a pastor being ordained Saturday night. I am looking forward to hearing the bishop’s remarks and catching up with longstanding friendships. Guide me holy Lord in all my conference connections.
II Sam 22 – 23:23 The words of a song of David which praises God for His deliverance and help. This chapter is very similar to one of the psalms of David.
23:8-23 is a tribute to David’s three mightiest warriors, and the Thirty. Reading this chapter, as I have in the past reminds me of the importance of a strong team, and of celebrating and naming the work of individuals as part of the greater cause. As a pastor I see great value in this example.
I am reflecting on my work of the last 20 years. For 14 years I was the founding pastor of SunRise, including the birthing of Morning Star. For 3 years I served on the conference staff directing congregational development, and for the last 3 years I have been pastoring Wesley, the 8th largest church in the conference. Having chaired conference teams, served on the conference council, and the extended cabinet, my role now is focusing more fully on the local church. I am enjoying having fewer conference responsibilities, and expect that in the future these will expand, especially as I will be nominated this conference to serve on the Ordained Ministry Team. Guide me Holy Lord as I serve you today.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
June 3, 2010
6-3-10 Thursday, 6:29 am Grayrock, 65 degrees.
It has rained over night, watering the lawn and garden. I plan to run this morning, as there will be no other time for the next few days with Annual Conference coming to town. Morning exercise is not my favorite, but today it is necessary. No dreams to report this morning, but yesterday, I awoke from a dream in which I found myself unemployed, and was at a vocation counselor who suggested I become a stock broker. When I strongly objected, he tried me out as a color commentator. I could not get the rhythm or the timing right. I was glad to wake up and find myself happily a pastor!
II Sam 20:14-21:22
A famine lasting three years enveloped the land. David inquired about this before the Lord, and learned it was a result of Saul’s slaughter of the Gibeonites. David asked their descendants to name what they wanted. They said that money could not settle this matter, and they could not demand the life of anyone in Israel. They suggested that 7 of Saul’s sons be handed over for them to execute before the Lord. They did this, and the famine ceased. This whole incident seems so outlandish. Whenever I have read this I have felt compassion on these men, their families and friends. Throughout history innocent people are executed and murdered. I will simply hold this loosely before the Lord, recognizing that He is God, and is righteous, and His judgments will last to all generations.
It has rained over night, watering the lawn and garden. I plan to run this morning, as there will be no other time for the next few days with Annual Conference coming to town. Morning exercise is not my favorite, but today it is necessary. No dreams to report this morning, but yesterday, I awoke from a dream in which I found myself unemployed, and was at a vocation counselor who suggested I become a stock broker. When I strongly objected, he tried me out as a color commentator. I could not get the rhythm or the timing right. I was glad to wake up and find myself happily a pastor!
II Sam 20:14-21:22
A famine lasting three years enveloped the land. David inquired about this before the Lord, and learned it was a result of Saul’s slaughter of the Gibeonites. David asked their descendants to name what they wanted. They said that money could not settle this matter, and they could not demand the life of anyone in Israel. They suggested that 7 of Saul’s sons be handed over for them to execute before the Lord. They did this, and the famine ceased. This whole incident seems so outlandish. Whenever I have read this I have felt compassion on these men, their families and friends. Throughout history innocent people are executed and murdered. I will simply hold this loosely before the Lord, recognizing that He is God, and is righteous, and His judgments will last to all generations.
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
June 1, 2010
6-1-10 Tuesday, 6:35 am Grayrock, 67 degrees, mostly sunny
II Sam 18 – 19:10
David’s three generals lead his loyal troops into battle against Absalom and the Israelite troops who followed him. 20,000 men are killed, including Absalom. David weeps for his son, making his troops feel ashamed and as though they had lost and were cowards. Rebuked by Joab, David takes his place at the city gate and thanks his troops. This is a tragedy all around. Absalom’s rebellion, David’s retreat from Jerusalem, this bloody battle, Absalom’s death all add up to a difficult season. There are many leadership lessons here. David’s life and reign as king continues for decades and he gets through this hard episode.
I woke up this morning from a tragic dream. I was taking three children canoeing in a large body of open water, and all three came up missing. One was found laying down in the canoe, and I was swimming in the water, looking for the other two. Above the water and below the water I was searching for these children, wondering how I would perform CPR while still in the water, as I wouldn’t be able to get them back into the canoe. I awoke before the drama was over, determined to make sure children always wear their life jackets. Dreams are an unusual phenomenon. I have not had a memorable one in months. Recording them in this journal preserves them, as they evaporate as the day unfolds. What does this dream mean?
Yesterday we drove to O’Fallon for a barbeque at David and Danelle’s home. Highway 44was crowded with Memorial Day traffic returning to St. Louis from the Ozarks. It is such privilege to make the Ozarks my home. We met Marcus and his fiancée Rachel at David’s, and enjoyed reminiscing about their high school years. Marcus told us about the serious accident he had a couple of weeks ago. Bethany stayed there overnight, and Danelle is taking her to the airport this morning. During the 7 hours of driving to and from the St. Louis area, I was practicing the advice of Henri Nouwen, making my thoughts a dialog instead of a monologue. This was not a new practice for me, but the clarity of his description is helpful. Praying without ceasing is my goal.
II Sam 18 – 19:10
David’s three generals lead his loyal troops into battle against Absalom and the Israelite troops who followed him. 20,000 men are killed, including Absalom. David weeps for his son, making his troops feel ashamed and as though they had lost and were cowards. Rebuked by Joab, David takes his place at the city gate and thanks his troops. This is a tragedy all around. Absalom’s rebellion, David’s retreat from Jerusalem, this bloody battle, Absalom’s death all add up to a difficult season. There are many leadership lessons here. David’s life and reign as king continues for decades and he gets through this hard episode.
I woke up this morning from a tragic dream. I was taking three children canoeing in a large body of open water, and all three came up missing. One was found laying down in the canoe, and I was swimming in the water, looking for the other two. Above the water and below the water I was searching for these children, wondering how I would perform CPR while still in the water, as I wouldn’t be able to get them back into the canoe. I awoke before the drama was over, determined to make sure children always wear their life jackets. Dreams are an unusual phenomenon. I have not had a memorable one in months. Recording them in this journal preserves them, as they evaporate as the day unfolds. What does this dream mean?
Yesterday we drove to O’Fallon for a barbeque at David and Danelle’s home. Highway 44was crowded with Memorial Day traffic returning to St. Louis from the Ozarks. It is such privilege to make the Ozarks my home. We met Marcus and his fiancée Rachel at David’s, and enjoyed reminiscing about their high school years. Marcus told us about the serious accident he had a couple of weeks ago. Bethany stayed there overnight, and Danelle is taking her to the airport this morning. During the 7 hours of driving to and from the St. Louis area, I was practicing the advice of Henri Nouwen, making my thoughts a dialog instead of a monologue. This was not a new practice for me, but the clarity of his description is helpful. Praying without ceasing is my goal.
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