July 16, 2013

Last night we had a gentle rain that replenished the yard and garden, fields and streams. It is a very nice morning out as I sit here on the deck enjoying coffee with a cat at my feet. An occasional humming bird visits the feeder. The blackberries are ripening by the hour, as I picked the first couple of quarts yesterday. Today I will lean into the work of pastoring as I lead our staff prayer time, our worship planning time, and supervise. I am almost caught up with email from my week on the road.

During the motorcycle trip I took through Kansas, Nebraska, Colorado, Wyoming and Idaho, I did not post any blogs. I hope to summarize that trip, with pictures and post it as a blog in the next couple of days. It is good to be back, and to have access to the internet and my laptop which is set up for blogging. 

Deuteronomy 11 – the blessings of obedience

Moses points out that the children of the Israelites did not see God’s powerful deliverance from Egypt, His destruction of their armies, nor His provision of manna in the wilderness (as did their parents, who would all die in the wilderness.) He instructs them to obey all of God’s commands, “Tie them to your hands and wear them on your forehead as reminders. Teach them to your children. Talk about them when you are at home and when you are on the road, when you are going to bed and when you are getting up. Write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates… (11:18-20).

Moses warns his people: “Be careful. Don’t let your heart be deceived so that you turn away from the Lord and serve and worship other gods.” I just obtained a book entitled Gods at War – Defeating the idols that battle for your heart by Kyle Idleman. He groups these idols into three categories and names three gods (idols) in each category – The Temple of Pleasure – the gods of food, sex and entertainment. The Temple of Power – the gods of success, money and achievement. The Temple of Love – the gods of romance, family and me. I look forward to reading this book and perhaps using it for a series of messages in the fall or spring.

Guide me today, most holy Lord as I obey all your commands – loving you with all my heart, soul, mind and strength, and my neighbor as myself. Use me to bless those around me, and lead me as your undershepherd among your flock called Wesley United Methodist church as we develop more fruitful disciples of yours who worship, care and serve. 

July 4, 2013

This past Sunday I sat in the front row of the sanctuary instead of in the chancel area (due to the beautiful setup for the patriotic pageant including the choir and orchestra). During the offering, it occurred to me that an offering plate would soon be passed in front of me. I reached into my wallet to get some offering money, which I did. As I sat in that same pew at the 9:30 service, realizing I still had three worship services to attend, it occurred to me that my wallet was not prepared to respond to four separate offerings, and I have made a commitment not to let an offering plate go by without responding. I was in a dilemma.

Audrey and I have found the Electronic Funds Transfer of our tithe to be very helpful, as it ensures a regular giving of 1/10 of our income to the general fund of the church. It comes out of our checking account two days after the electronic deposit of my paycheck from the church. Even as this is a wonderful solution for our giving, it left me in the pew with the offering plate fast approaching. Here is what I did: I reached for one of the offering envelopes in the pew, on the back I scribbled a note that said “Our tithe will be transferred electronically to the church this month”, and with great satisfaction I put that envelope into the offering plate! It gives me great joy to tithe our income to the kingdom of God through our church.

Last night we had a thunderstorm, with a lightning strike that sounded like it hit the house, temporarily knocking out power while I was in the shower! There is no apparent damage outside.

After we enjoyed watching the Lone Ranger on the day it was released, I rode my Concours over to Collettes, where Steve helped me get a bolt secured for my top carrier, and replace my headlight. There was a clip that was persnickety, but once Steve figured it out the rest was simple (for him!) Tomorrow we launch into our trip to Yellowstone, which we have dreamed about for a long time. Our four-day venture into Colorado in 2011 was a good prelude, and my trip with Bickers last year was great preparation, as we travelled for 6 days on our bikes.

Today I will wash my bike, pack my gear, work around the house and garden, and generally enjoy this national holiday. June 3 was the last full day off I experienced, and 31 days is a long time to work without a break. This upcoming motorcycle trip will provide an excellent sabbath. I am rereading Zen and Now by Mark Richardson as I will ride into Bozeman, Montana on a day trip through Yellowstone out of Dubois. Robert Pirsig rode his 1964 Honda SuperHawk (CB77) through Bozeman in 1968 with his son Chris on the back and then wrote Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance based on the trip. Richardson does a great job of using his motorcycle trip, which retraced Pirsig’s route as a basis to comment and review Pirsig’s life and writings.

Deut 4:44 – 6:25

Moses reviews the past 40 years, reminding the people of the 10 commandments, received on Mt. Sinai at the beginning of the Exodus. I am in a season of not hearing God’s voice or sensing His presence. I have noticed this, and daily journey forward knowing that God is present, is guiding me, and that I am seeking to do His will. I realize that seasons such as this are part of the spiritual life. I do not want to miss out on any experience with God, neither do I want to manufacture or strain for an experience.

This morning, most Holy Lord, I bask in your unseen presence, I listen to your silent Word, I live in your invisible love. I am yours. My life is lived for You. My heart beats to serve You. My resources are directed to your Kingdom. My relationships are nurtured reflecting your relationship. This is the day which You have made, I will rejoice and be glad in it!

June 26, 2013

Ahh, the coffee is delicious, the couch is comfortable, and at 5:30 am I am ready for my early morning reading, prayer, and planning. My routine has been so irregular during June that I have found it difficult to write, and also to practice the saxophone. (I will play in the orchestra this Sunday for the Patriotic Pageant.) Yesterday I had new tires installed on the Kawasaki Concours which completes the final step to preparing it for the longest ride yet attempted, to Yellowstone, including Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho, Montana, and South Dakota.  We leave a week from Friday. I still need to get my camping gear and all my supplies sorted out and figure out how to pack them.  I am rereading Zen and Now which retraces the route of Robert Pirsig’s 1968 motorcycle trip which was the basis for his famous book, Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance. We will cover a small part of his route.

Numbers 33-34

Moses was instructed to record the travels of Israel, and chapter 33 is his record of their travels from Egypt for the 40+ years until they arrived at the Promised Land. It is very concise, recording every place where they camped. I enjoy reading travel logs, and have kept a log of my longer motorcycle trips. The fact that God instructed Moses to keep this record reminds me that community history is important for a people to remember, and important to God.

Chapter 34 describes the boundaries of the Promised Land, which would become the nation of Israel. God commanded his people to drive out all the inhabitants, and if any were left they would be like splinters and thorns for the Israelites. Reading this historical record I am again awed by the plans of God, his care for his people, and the harsh treatment to the enemies who worshiped false gods, bowed to idols and were involved in hideous practices such as human sacrifice and ritual prostitution. God is still involved in the human race, has revealed his will and purposes, has provided his son for our salvation, and made possible a daily walk in his presence.

Guide me today Lord as I serve you with joy. May my conversations, planning, praying, and interactions honor you and further your kingdom in this generation.

June 19, 2013

My blogs have decreased in frequency this month. I am not sure the reason, but imagine that it is mainly related to my schedule. As Springfield hosted the 4 days of Annual Conference, the gathering of all United Methodist pastors and an equal number of lay members from all the churches in Missouri, I was busy hosting meals and leading the Board of Ordained Ministry in several events. Today I am heading to Dallas for a conversation about leadership in the United Methodist Church, especially concerning how we attract and empower younger clergy leaders. Following is the article I wrote for the "Pastor's Pen" of this week's church newsletter:

In August we will launch a worship service in the downtown area as part of our college-age ministries. Pastor Matt Kerner will lead the service, Brian Mattson will lead the music. As we lean into our third year of intentional ministry among college students, we will bring a Wesley worship service as a second campus of our Republic Road main campus. I have noticed that members of Wesley have an affinity for the downtown area – shopping, dining, attending sporting events and concerts. After much prayerful discernment, the time is right to offer a worship service in the downtown area.

The service will launch on August 18 as the college students return to classes. We have made arrangements with the St. Paul UMC to use their sanctuary for this 11:30 am service. The music will incorporate the rich tradition of hymns and high quality modern worship music. The message will be delivered by Pastor Matt Kerner on most Sundays, and often will follow the themes used at our main campus. There will be nursery care and children’s worship for kids through 5^th grade.

This new worship experience is designed to reach new people. There are approximately 40,000 residents under the age of 30 within 2 miles of downtown. More than 50% of this population considers itself spiritual but does not participate in any faith community. Even as the goal is to reach more college students, people of all ages are encouraged to attend this service, as research indicates most college students prefer to worship in a multi-generational context.

I look forward to the ways God will use this endeavor to expand His Kingdom through Wesley United Methodist Church whose mission is to develop more disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care and serve.

June 14, 2013

It is John Wesley time (4:30 am)! Whenever I am out of bed during the 4 o’clock hour in the morning I remember John Wesley, who arose very early every morning. I am able to do this naturally (without an alarm) every now and then. This morning from 3:30 on I was awake, thinking about pastoral ministry through Wesley, sermons to preach this summer, the expanded ministry footprint, etc. I also am aware that I have not worked out since Monday a week ago in O’Fallon. I plan to go to the gym this morning by 5:30, given my schedule the rest of the day. I have been trying to strike a balance with this bronchitis, giving it enough rest to recover, but not succumbing to its debilitation. Yesterday I felt a little better, and that improvement continues this morning.

Numbers 22-23:26 (At this painfully slow rate of a chapter a day, I will not see the conquest of the Promised Land completed for a long time!)

As the Israelites camp opposite Jericho on the plains of Moab, the Moabite king sends for Balaam who lives near the Euphrates River to come and curse the encroaching horde. Balaam seeks God’s direction, who tells him not to go, and after some give and take, sets out intending only to say what God tells him. God is angry that he has even set out, and blocks his way with the invisible angel of the Lord. Balaam’s ass (donkey) sees and avoids this angel, but gets beaten each time by Balaam. Then the Lord gives the donkey the ability to speak, and he asks Balaam why he is beating him. God opens Balaam’s eyes to the spiritual reality, and he is humbled. God tells him to proceed, but only speak what he is told by God.

This is a most interesting account, and my take-away is to be ever more sensitive to the leading of the spirit, to go when prompted, and to stay put when not prompted to go, and to always be discerning what the will of the Lord is.

Guide me today, most holy Lord as I live, move and breathe every moment in your presence. 

June 13, 2013

The Missouri Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church concluded its 2013 session in Springfield on Monday of this week. Led by Bishop Schnase, the theme of the Conference was “Praying Hands, Dirty Fingernails.” On Saturday afternoon, hundreds of delegates fanned out across Springfield in a mini mission blitz. Our church coordinated the work at Rare Breed, a center for homeless teens. A Habitat for Humanity house was constructed during the 4 day conference. I had the privilege of delivering the report of the Board of Ordained Ministry which I chair. The conference celebrated the retirements of both Jerry and Bev Boehmer, and on Saturday night we ordained 9 new Elders, having elected them into full connection with the annual conference. On Sunday morning, Mildred Hillme’s name was read in a service of remembrance, as she is the widow of Dr. Herbert Hillme, a United Methodist pastor.

The final act of the conference was the fixing of appointments, during which it was confirmed that I will be returning to Wesley for my 7^th year, as will Pastor Mi Hyeon Lee, and Pastor Matt Kerner will be returning for his 3^rd year under appointment to Wesley. His role will be shifting this year as he leads us in establishing a Sunday Morning worshipping community in the downtown area near the campuses. Wesley has received a larger grant from the Annual Conference for the coming year ($70,000, up from $40,000 this year) specifically to cover the additional costs of launching a new worship service. Matt is developing a launch team for this service, and would welcome the participation of all who feel called to be a part of this exciting new work.

Words are not adequate for me to express the appreciation I have for the work and witness of Wesley United Methodist Church. From the daily presence of our hospitality team wearing their red vests under the direction of Larry and Anis Gunner, to the mission work coordinated by Ted Madden, to the youth leaders including Tanner Kirksey and Bev Boehmer, Wesley is one of the strongest churches in the conference. It is a privilege to be appointed as lead pastor of this healthy church which is developing more fruitful disciples of Jesus Christ who worship, care and serve!

June 5, 2013

I have arisen at 4:15, rested and ready for the day. The coconut coffee is extra tasty this morning. I have been reading an article in the Sunday News Leader which is a follow up to the February 23 murder of two young children and the suicide of their mother in Springfield. The gist of the article is about the restrictions placed upon DFS which requires a “preponderance of evidence” in order to remove a child from the home. Though this mother had episodic outbursts, there was not sufficient evidence to remove the children. This reminds me of the role that the church and Christ-followers can play in the everyday lives of children and families – a role of encouragement, partnership, and awareness.

Yesterday I attended the funeral service for Jim Combs, whose obituary is also in the Sunday News Leader. He was a man of great accomplishment as a Bible teacher, pastor, editor and innovative leader. I only knew him in the last few years, as a man of great encouragement. Daily I desire to live my life before God that is obedient and fruitful for the kingdom.

Numbers 13

God instructs Moses to send 12 spies into the Promised Land, which he does. They bring back a report of luscious crops and strong, large people living in walled cities. Caleb encourages the people to go at once to take the land. The other spies (except Joshua) argue against taking the land, pointing out the problems.

This is a classic episode in the history of God’s people. The trust placed in these 12 men is huge. As they experienced the weight of their influence, they eventually came down on the side of caution. This chapter simply tells the story of their spy mission. Later chapters will interpret their conclusions. This morning I am conscious of their lack of trust in God, and the manner in which they allowed obstacles to overwhelm their progress.

I am in a completely different time and place from these twelve. And where I am living, there is opportunity for great faith, obedience and courage. I must daily identify what this is, and how I can be part of God’s working among us. I must be careful to avoid attitude of the 10 spies, caution, doubt, lack of vision, and daily adopt the attitude of Caleb and Joshua – let’s move forward, God is with us.

Areas in my realm of influence –

                          Children’s ministry space and Auditorium for Wesley

                          Downtown ministry footprint – college age worship service

                          Recruiting and training younger pastors

                          Spiritual formation of pastors and kingdom builders

                          Family development of assets and opportunities

Guide me today, most Holy Lord as I scout and live the life of faith to which you have called me. Guard me against being timid or reticent about moving forward at Your direction. Help me to live faithfully, even among naysayers and those who cannot see what You are up to.