It seems that most pastors are either hesistant to speak their political minds or qucik to drag out their soap-box and stump for their candidate. It is hard for me to trust either option, though I do value my own freedom to speak my mind in an election cycle. Then again, when speaking my mind about the candidates involves quoting the Simpsons...I probably should just be quiet.
Okay, I can't resist. Here is the synopsis of the party platforms, ala The Simpsons. Republicans- We Want What's Worst For Everyone. Democrats- We Can't Govern.
"Don't blame me...I voted for Kodos."
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Feeling sorry for Sarah
Disclaimer: I am a dedicated third-party voter. I do not support the Republicrat Party that maintains a monopoly on our national political discourse. Out of this conviction, I forsee no instance where I would support a two-party system by voting for Coke or Pepsi. I am a dedicated Diet Mountain Dew voter.
You can't help but feel sorry for Sarah Palin. Well, maybe you relish her misery. I don't know. But I am going to ask an open and honest question. How would the average American do on the Great American Political Quiz? If you don't know the answer to that, you have been out of college for far too long.
How many voters do you think have been ever been outside of the country (Cancun, the Virgin Islands, and Bahamas excluded)? How many of them could name and describe any Supreme Court case apart from Roe vs. Wade? How many can describe the 'Bush Doctrine' or tell us who, when, and where that term was coined? How many know why Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac were created? For that matter, how many could find Afghanistan on a world map?
The point is that much of the population of our country is ignorant about politics, history, even religion. Sure, they can name all the winners of American Idol. But what about the first five presidents? Four? Two? Though we fight to keep them in (or out) of our courtrooms, how many of our nation's PASTORS can actually recite all 10 Commandments? If my seminary experience is any indication, the answer is somewhat emabarassing.
I suppose we ought to hold our candidates for office to a higher standard than the general population. They should know these political facts. But part of me thinks we are, as a nation, a bit hypocritical when we shame Sarah Palin for her answers to these questions. After all, we are the nation that invented the open book test.
If anything, as a pop culture nation, we should also shun candidates who can't get basic sports facts right. Barack Obama, life-long basketball fan from Illinois, a Big Ten state says 'Nitally Lions'? I mean, come on. Nitally? Do you even watch Sportscenter, Barack? Joe-Pa. Joe-Pa. Sheesh.
You can't help but feel sorry for Sarah Palin. Well, maybe you relish her misery. I don't know. But I am going to ask an open and honest question. How would the average American do on the Great American Political Quiz? If you don't know the answer to that, you have been out of college for far too long.
How many voters do you think have been ever been outside of the country (Cancun, the Virgin Islands, and Bahamas excluded)? How many of them could name and describe any Supreme Court case apart from Roe vs. Wade? How many can describe the 'Bush Doctrine' or tell us who, when, and where that term was coined? How many know why Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac were created? For that matter, how many could find Afghanistan on a world map?
The point is that much of the population of our country is ignorant about politics, history, even religion. Sure, they can name all the winners of American Idol. But what about the first five presidents? Four? Two? Though we fight to keep them in (or out) of our courtrooms, how many of our nation's PASTORS can actually recite all 10 Commandments? If my seminary experience is any indication, the answer is somewhat emabarassing.
I suppose we ought to hold our candidates for office to a higher standard than the general population. They should know these political facts. But part of me thinks we are, as a nation, a bit hypocritical when we shame Sarah Palin for her answers to these questions. After all, we are the nation that invented the open book test.
If anything, as a pop culture nation, we should also shun candidates who can't get basic sports facts right. Barack Obama, life-long basketball fan from Illinois, a Big Ten state says 'Nitally Lions'? I mean, come on. Nitally? Do you even watch Sportscenter, Barack? Joe-Pa. Joe-Pa. Sheesh.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Money...I should have paid attention a little earlier.
Like many Americans, my eventual goal is to own the house in which I live. Currently, I am renting a house which is bad insofar as I am paying (and losing) money in rent each month. On the plus side, for the first time in my adult life I am actually living in a house instead of an apartment. Its about 50/50. I do have the option to buy this house at some point, maybe getting some credit for rent I have already paid. Or I might find another house in the Hartford area to buy. That is a step I am ready to take. Except for this money thing.
Yes, the whole financial crisis has pretty much destroyed any means by which I could afford a house. That's not to say I am a financial risk. At least I don't think I am. Sure, I have some college debt and a little for my car. I don't, however, tend to carry a balance on credit cards and for the most part spend wisely. Still, I don't quite have the means to save up enough month to month to make a decent downpayment. Now, with the rules getting tighter on borrowers if indeed anyone can borrow money at all, I expect I really can't afford much of anything. That, indeed, is sad.
As a first-time home buyer I could sit back and complain that I have had nothing to do with this mess and shake my fist in the air because I now am unable to participate in the American house grab. On the other hand, I could hope and pray that market conditions might remain favorable to me as far as prices and interest go. I am not sure what to do. What I do know is that the prospects for me and my future family don't look good at the moment. So, like millions of other Americans, I sit and wait this one out. I think what could have been just months ago. But maybe this will work itself out.
Yes, the whole financial crisis has pretty much destroyed any means by which I could afford a house. That's not to say I am a financial risk. At least I don't think I am. Sure, I have some college debt and a little for my car. I don't, however, tend to carry a balance on credit cards and for the most part spend wisely. Still, I don't quite have the means to save up enough month to month to make a decent downpayment. Now, with the rules getting tighter on borrowers if indeed anyone can borrow money at all, I expect I really can't afford much of anything. That, indeed, is sad.
As a first-time home buyer I could sit back and complain that I have had nothing to do with this mess and shake my fist in the air because I now am unable to participate in the American house grab. On the other hand, I could hope and pray that market conditions might remain favorable to me as far as prices and interest go. I am not sure what to do. What I do know is that the prospects for me and my future family don't look good at the moment. So, like millions of other Americans, I sit and wait this one out. I think what could have been just months ago. But maybe this will work itself out.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
Economy? Yikes!
Out of curiousity I was browsing through the dictionary (yes, I spend hours doing that each day...not really) to find a definition of the word 'economy'. While economy can refer to the organization or management of resources, I knew there was another meaning that I couldn't quite pinpoint. Voila! Here it is, definition 2a: thrifty and efficient use of material resources; frugality in expenditures. Hmm...that doesn't seem to describe our ecomony. Millions of Americans have cars, houses, entertainment centers, educations, iPods, and lattes that they cannot afford. Yet, the growth of our economy is dependent on our own personal lack of economy. This is definitely a downside to our consumer economy.
While I like to blame guys in grey suits for lots of things in life, I have to stop myself here. Sure, corporate greed has played a large role in this current crisis. Most ndividuals don't bank at Bear Stearns, get loans from Fannie Mae, or even have AIG insurance. Yet, we are all affected by this culture of spending and carried along willingly in its currents. As I understand it, the housing crisis is simply the tip of the iceberg. Some people bit off a little more than they could chew for their mortgages and banks lost their gamble that people would pay them back. Okay, but that can't account for the entire crisis, can it? I don't think so. But it does point out to a very large problem in society that threatens to undo us all: cheap credit.
I am only 31 years old and yet I am already in debt up to my ears...mostly for college. But I am pretty well off compared to many my age who have college loans, car loans, AND huge credit card bills on top of it. Add in a mortgage and wow! Yet, up until now it was pretty easy to get a loan for pretty much anything. Because it was easy, we began as a society to live beyond our means. Put the Starbucks coffe on the card, then the jeans, and oops...need to make a tuition payment. Bam! Instant debt. This is what scares me, as an individual and as a pastor. If all the banks in the country called in our debt right now, we'd be sunk. Man, I wouldn't even know how to go about talking to all those who lost everything. My job wouldn't be easy...but there seems to be a leather bound book somewhere in my office that tells me about stuff like this. If only I could find it!
While I like to blame guys in grey suits for lots of things in life, I have to stop myself here. Sure, corporate greed has played a large role in this current crisis. Most ndividuals don't bank at Bear Stearns, get loans from Fannie Mae, or even have AIG insurance. Yet, we are all affected by this culture of spending and carried along willingly in its currents. As I understand it, the housing crisis is simply the tip of the iceberg. Some people bit off a little more than they could chew for their mortgages and banks lost their gamble that people would pay them back. Okay, but that can't account for the entire crisis, can it? I don't think so. But it does point out to a very large problem in society that threatens to undo us all: cheap credit.
I am only 31 years old and yet I am already in debt up to my ears...mostly for college. But I am pretty well off compared to many my age who have college loans, car loans, AND huge credit card bills on top of it. Add in a mortgage and wow! Yet, up until now it was pretty easy to get a loan for pretty much anything. Because it was easy, we began as a society to live beyond our means. Put the Starbucks coffe on the card, then the jeans, and oops...need to make a tuition payment. Bam! Instant debt. This is what scares me, as an individual and as a pastor. If all the banks in the country called in our debt right now, we'd be sunk. Man, I wouldn't even know how to go about talking to all those who lost everything. My job wouldn't be easy...but there seems to be a leather bound book somewhere in my office that tells me about stuff like this. If only I could find it!
Thursday, August 28, 2008
5 Reasons Why You Should Consider Using the King James Version
Here I am again talking about the KJV. Next thing you know, I'll be hitting the revival meeting circuit with Oral Roberts. Anyway, here are 5 reasons why you should consider reading the King James Version.
1. It is beautiful. There is a reason why you study this thing in Literature courses. While some might feel that beauty comes at the price of clarity (especially considering the plainness of the original language), to experience the English language at its best, you need to read the KJV or Shakespeare. I pick the bible!
2. It is common to all. Step back for a minute. Think of all the scripture you can quote. If you are Presbyterian like me, it is probably not much! But the things you DO know probably come from the King James Version. The Lord's Prayer. The 23rd Psalm. Even John 3:16. Most people quote these from the King James Version. It gives us English speakers a common bond and language to share.
3. It is a good translation. Sure, the KJV doesn't make use of the earliest manuscripts. It might not match up well to modern bibles in terms of content (or vice versa if you are of the King James Only variety). However, the KJV is an excellent translation of the Greek language. Seriously! As long as there are not too many textual variants in the passage, the translation of the KJV will stand up to anything you come up with on your own. I used it to check my Greek from time to time. Chop off the -sts or the -ths and you are good to go.
4. It is pre-modern, thus making it post-modern. We hear all about post-modernism these days. And the result? Crappy modern sounding English translations like The Message. (Sorry, I just can't drink the Eugene Peterson Kool-aid.) If the commentators are right about the post-modern desire for mystery and ritual, what could be better than the King James? It sounds archaic and at times down-right spooky. That is what the post-modern world loves, so this should be the version of choice!
5. It is free to use. Most people don't realize this, but most modern bible translations are copyrighted. If you are going to quote from them, you need permission. Otherwise, it is time to pay up. Lest you think this is a joke, I was part of a one-act play in college based on the book of Job. Two weeks before we went live, the playwright discovered that his script, based on the NIV, could not be performed because it was based entirely on copyrighted material. I am not sure how he resolved this, but needless to say, it is a problem. On the other hand, the KJV has passed out of copyright in the U.S. That is why you find it so many places. That is why the Gideons used it for their bibles. Its completely, totally, 100% free to use!
And there you have it. Pick one up, try it...
1. It is beautiful. There is a reason why you study this thing in Literature courses. While some might feel that beauty comes at the price of clarity (especially considering the plainness of the original language), to experience the English language at its best, you need to read the KJV or Shakespeare. I pick the bible!
2. It is common to all. Step back for a minute. Think of all the scripture you can quote. If you are Presbyterian like me, it is probably not much! But the things you DO know probably come from the King James Version. The Lord's Prayer. The 23rd Psalm. Even John 3:16. Most people quote these from the King James Version. It gives us English speakers a common bond and language to share.
3. It is a good translation. Sure, the KJV doesn't make use of the earliest manuscripts. It might not match up well to modern bibles in terms of content (or vice versa if you are of the King James Only variety). However, the KJV is an excellent translation of the Greek language. Seriously! As long as there are not too many textual variants in the passage, the translation of the KJV will stand up to anything you come up with on your own. I used it to check my Greek from time to time. Chop off the -sts or the -ths and you are good to go.
4. It is pre-modern, thus making it post-modern. We hear all about post-modernism these days. And the result? Crappy modern sounding English translations like The Message. (Sorry, I just can't drink the Eugene Peterson Kool-aid.) If the commentators are right about the post-modern desire for mystery and ritual, what could be better than the King James? It sounds archaic and at times down-right spooky. That is what the post-modern world loves, so this should be the version of choice!
5. It is free to use. Most people don't realize this, but most modern bible translations are copyrighted. If you are going to quote from them, you need permission. Otherwise, it is time to pay up. Lest you think this is a joke, I was part of a one-act play in college based on the book of Job. Two weeks before we went live, the playwright discovered that his script, based on the NIV, could not be performed because it was based entirely on copyrighted material. I am not sure how he resolved this, but needless to say, it is a problem. On the other hand, the KJV has passed out of copyright in the U.S. That is why you find it so many places. That is why the Gideons used it for their bibles. Its completely, totally, 100% free to use!
And there you have it. Pick one up, try it...
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Hunting for the KJV
The other day, while I was browsing the shelves at the local Cokesbury, I had an urge. It was a little strange, but something that has been tugging at me ever since. I don't own a good King James Bible. I have one of the $5 Wal-Mart variety on my shelf. I know I could find an armful if I just looked around the church. Still, I was bothered by the fact that I don't own a nice copy of the KJV. I have two copies of the NIV Study Bible, The Harper Collins Study Bible, The NRSV Classics Devotional Bible, and The New Interpreters Study Bible. But I decided that I wanted a good King James Study Bible. So, that became my obsession for a couple hours the other day.
In case you wondered, here are your 3 basic options (to be found at Cokesbury, Wellspring, Family Christian Store, Barnes & Noble, or Borders...yes, I visited all five!):
First is the Zondervan KJV Study Bible. This is the cheapest of the three in hardcover. That would seem to be all that is going for it. The introduction states that the study notes are intended for the 'Conservative Christian'. Strike one. The back cover includes an endorsement from Jerry Falwell. Strikes two...and three. It looks nicely put together and I almost decided to go with this one because of the price. It has nice type-setting and the print is easy on the eye. It is not too bulky and is available in paperback. (No leather cover, however). Still, I just couldn't get past the endorsement from its biggest fan.
Second is the Nelson KJV Study Bible. This one was hard to pick out from the Nelson KJV Reference Bible, which contains no study notes. Again, the introduction states that the bible is for the 'Conservative Christian'. What is up with that? I shouldn't have asked. Turn to the next page...Jerry Falwell is listed as one of the editors. Yikes! Dr. Falwell must really be a fan of the Authorized Version! Its okay...I don't like the layout of this book as much. The print is too dark (I know, it sounds weird, but you'd have to see it). There are symbols that function as pointers to study notes, including a 'set of keys' that are included to indicate essential doctrines. I found these study notes to be heavy-handed and certainly a little bit awkward as they intruded into the text itself. This version was more expensive, though it did come in a nice leather bound addition. Sadly, I don't think it would be proper to buy a Study Bible that you would want to throw across the room every time you sat down to read.
Last, but not least...in this case best (relatively speaking) is the Life Application Bible KJV. I have had a Life Application Bible in the past. It is a beautiful creature. I love the typesetting and layout. It was nicely bound, the kind of bible you'd pass on to your child. This bible was almost identical to the one I remember. The main problem here is that the study notes aren't study notes as much as they are life application questions. It is a little different approach, though it doesn't seem nearly as heavy handed as the Nelson version. There is still some good textual information, though nothing like the Harper Collins or Interpreters. Also, it is the most expensive. However, it was the bible I eventually chose, in the leather bound version no less! Thank God for Amazon! (I saved almost $20 ordering it online!)
All in all, you can find some good KJV bibles out there. It is funny, though, how different store skew towards one version or another. Cokesbury really didn't have much in the way of KJV. They were selling a lot of NRSV Study Bibles. (BTW, the paperback of the Interpreters Study Bible is only $15 at the DSM Cokesbury...get it while its hot!). Wellspring had the largest collection of KJV bibles and that was my basic spot to compare bible version. Family Christian is the place to go for the Message, evidently, as well as the NIV. B&N and Borders had about the same variety. (They had the cheaper paperbacks in more abundance...plus I snagged THE BEST Illustrated Bible Dictionary I have ever seen for only $10 on the bargain shelf.) Basically I wanted a KJV that was easy on the eye and that I would look forward to reading. I got what I needed. As for why I want to read the King James Version...I'll get to that later.
In case you wondered, here are your 3 basic options (to be found at Cokesbury, Wellspring, Family Christian Store, Barnes & Noble, or Borders...yes, I visited all five!):
First is the Zondervan KJV Study Bible. This is the cheapest of the three in hardcover. That would seem to be all that is going for it. The introduction states that the study notes are intended for the 'Conservative Christian'. Strike one. The back cover includes an endorsement from Jerry Falwell. Strikes two...and three. It looks nicely put together and I almost decided to go with this one because of the price. It has nice type-setting and the print is easy on the eye. It is not too bulky and is available in paperback. (No leather cover, however). Still, I just couldn't get past the endorsement from its biggest fan.
Second is the Nelson KJV Study Bible. This one was hard to pick out from the Nelson KJV Reference Bible, which contains no study notes. Again, the introduction states that the bible is for the 'Conservative Christian'. What is up with that? I shouldn't have asked. Turn to the next page...Jerry Falwell is listed as one of the editors. Yikes! Dr. Falwell must really be a fan of the Authorized Version! Its okay...I don't like the layout of this book as much. The print is too dark (I know, it sounds weird, but you'd have to see it). There are symbols that function as pointers to study notes, including a 'set of keys' that are included to indicate essential doctrines. I found these study notes to be heavy-handed and certainly a little bit awkward as they intruded into the text itself. This version was more expensive, though it did come in a nice leather bound addition. Sadly, I don't think it would be proper to buy a Study Bible that you would want to throw across the room every time you sat down to read.
Last, but not least...in this case best (relatively speaking) is the Life Application Bible KJV. I have had a Life Application Bible in the past. It is a beautiful creature. I love the typesetting and layout. It was nicely bound, the kind of bible you'd pass on to your child. This bible was almost identical to the one I remember. The main problem here is that the study notes aren't study notes as much as they are life application questions. It is a little different approach, though it doesn't seem nearly as heavy handed as the Nelson version. There is still some good textual information, though nothing like the Harper Collins or Interpreters. Also, it is the most expensive. However, it was the bible I eventually chose, in the leather bound version no less! Thank God for Amazon! (I saved almost $20 ordering it online!)
All in all, you can find some good KJV bibles out there. It is funny, though, how different store skew towards one version or another. Cokesbury really didn't have much in the way of KJV. They were selling a lot of NRSV Study Bibles. (BTW, the paperback of the Interpreters Study Bible is only $15 at the DSM Cokesbury...get it while its hot!). Wellspring had the largest collection of KJV bibles and that was my basic spot to compare bible version. Family Christian is the place to go for the Message, evidently, as well as the NIV. B&N and Borders had about the same variety. (They had the cheaper paperbacks in more abundance...plus I snagged THE BEST Illustrated Bible Dictionary I have ever seen for only $10 on the bargain shelf.) Basically I wanted a KJV that was easy on the eye and that I would look forward to reading. I got what I needed. As for why I want to read the King James Version...I'll get to that later.
Monday, August 25, 2008
Science....bleh
An article in the online version of the New York Times caught my eye this week. The article was about Florida's requirement that evolution be taught in schools as 'the organizing principle' of modern science. It seems silly to me that this has to be a state law, but of course it plays right into the headline worthy "Evolution vs. Creation" debate. The focus of this article was a teacher by the name of David Campbell who sees teaching evolution as his mission. While he teaches, he is worried about the backwoods, religious fundamentalism of many of his students. He is concerned that he say just the right things so that he doesn't lose the captain of the football team who also happens to be a member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. It would appear that Mr. Campbell is an evolution missionary bent on making sure all of his students think and believe like he does. Very strange, really, as he has the benefit many of us pastors would kill for: a captive audience.
I jest. I am not for or against the teaching of evolution. Science was terribly boring, ahem...is terribly boring to me. I barely made it through chemistry in high school. When Mrs. Hughes excitedly promoted Physics by saying 'its only applied math' that was a double strike for me! So with apologies to Uncle Sam for not becoming an engineer and designing missles or something, I checked out of science mentally and phyisically. I wonder how ANYONE things that teaching a scientific theory can be exciting. Which is why I think this whole religion vs. science debate is simply overblown and terribly boring.
As a complete 'hater of science' in the mode of Homer Simpson (Did he say science?! No dad, he said...uh...'Pie Pants'! Mmmmm....pie pants!), I have to ask the question: Is it necessary to teach 'evolution'? I mean, can you be a chemist without being subject to boring lectures about natural selection? Can you be a physicist and not read 'The Descent of Man'? Heck, do you really need to understand the fossil record to make a better tasting steak? After reading this article I imagine Mr. Campbell's elite stormtroopers forcing students to study evolution ala Clockword Orange. Seriously...is it that important to focus on evolution specifically? Can't you just teach science?
Let me take the flip side. I am a pastor. My job is to teach people about the Bible. Do I start with an all-encompassing lecture on the Reformed Tradition before I preach every sermon? Of course not! After years of hearing me preach, I would hope that if you sat down my congregants with a list of things Reformed preachers preach about, they would realize I was Reformed. But I don't feel the need to have all of my parishoners universally accept all the points of Reformed Calvinism before I move on. I am not naive enough to think I am preaching to a bunch of Calvinists. In fact, I know two or three who would probably jump right out the stained glass windows if they knew what Calvinists actually believed! Is it important to me as a minister to know it? Yes, of course! Is it important for my congregation to know it? Yes, I think so! Can they still be Christians...can they still be Calvinists...if they don't accept every last point of Reformed theology? Sure, you bet.
I know the evolution thing makes for a sexy debate. Personally, I have only cared about it when the teachers are arrogant jerks. That does happen sometimes and sadly, it doesn't do much to help anyone's openness to scientific theory. However, all being equal, our country is in deperate need of scientists. I hate science. And there are probably quite a few others like me who choose some other sort of career. But, in an age where you NEED scientists, and CRAVE scientists, why start by pissing off a good half of your students with this? Why not just teach science, math, computers...and when it crops up...mention it and move along? Makes sense to me. Ever read this sign: "Don't pee in our pool. We don't swim in your toliet." That's all I have to say about that.
I jest. I am not for or against the teaching of evolution. Science was terribly boring, ahem...is terribly boring to me. I barely made it through chemistry in high school. When Mrs. Hughes excitedly promoted Physics by saying 'its only applied math' that was a double strike for me! So with apologies to Uncle Sam for not becoming an engineer and designing missles or something, I checked out of science mentally and phyisically. I wonder how ANYONE things that teaching a scientific theory can be exciting. Which is why I think this whole religion vs. science debate is simply overblown and terribly boring.
As a complete 'hater of science' in the mode of Homer Simpson (Did he say science?! No dad, he said...uh...'Pie Pants'! Mmmmm....pie pants!), I have to ask the question: Is it necessary to teach 'evolution'? I mean, can you be a chemist without being subject to boring lectures about natural selection? Can you be a physicist and not read 'The Descent of Man'? Heck, do you really need to understand the fossil record to make a better tasting steak? After reading this article I imagine Mr. Campbell's elite stormtroopers forcing students to study evolution ala Clockword Orange. Seriously...is it that important to focus on evolution specifically? Can't you just teach science?
Let me take the flip side. I am a pastor. My job is to teach people about the Bible. Do I start with an all-encompassing lecture on the Reformed Tradition before I preach every sermon? Of course not! After years of hearing me preach, I would hope that if you sat down my congregants with a list of things Reformed preachers preach about, they would realize I was Reformed. But I don't feel the need to have all of my parishoners universally accept all the points of Reformed Calvinism before I move on. I am not naive enough to think I am preaching to a bunch of Calvinists. In fact, I know two or three who would probably jump right out the stained glass windows if they knew what Calvinists actually believed! Is it important to me as a minister to know it? Yes, of course! Is it important for my congregation to know it? Yes, I think so! Can they still be Christians...can they still be Calvinists...if they don't accept every last point of Reformed theology? Sure, you bet.
I know the evolution thing makes for a sexy debate. Personally, I have only cared about it when the teachers are arrogant jerks. That does happen sometimes and sadly, it doesn't do much to help anyone's openness to scientific theory. However, all being equal, our country is in deperate need of scientists. I hate science. And there are probably quite a few others like me who choose some other sort of career. But, in an age where you NEED scientists, and CRAVE scientists, why start by pissing off a good half of your students with this? Why not just teach science, math, computers...and when it crops up...mention it and move along? Makes sense to me. Ever read this sign: "Don't pee in our pool. We don't swim in your toliet." That's all I have to say about that.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
More on China
Today we learn that China has blocked its citizens from the Itunes store. Yesterday, there was news that a computer hacker discovered Excel spreadsheets that gave the true ages of young gymnasts in an internet cache. (They were being deleted even as he stumbled upon them.) Also, yesterday the story that two elderly women who legally applied for protest permits we being sent for "re-education" (ie. hard labor). It goes on and on... While the Christian Century makes apologies for the harsh actions of the Chinese regime, here is an article from a journalist brave enough to paint a true picture of life for Christians in China:
On August 8, 2008, three American Christians were arrested in China. After the group's press conference in Tiananmen Square, during which they condemned the country's widespread oppression and human rights violations, they were imprisoned and subsequently deported back to the United States.
On that same day, as the world prepared for the commencement of the Olympic Games in Beijing, several Chinese house church leaders were quietly detained in the Henan Province, in an effort by government leaders to curb protests and reports of religious persecution in the country.
On August 11, while visiting China for the Olympics, U.S. President George Bush attended a carefully staged, government-approved worship service at the Three Self Patriotic Movement Kuanjie Church. Before his visit was over, unbeknownst to the outside world, Christian social activist Hua Huiqi would be arrested and illegally detained near Beijing.
They are just a few of the thousands of people who daily risk their lives for the "crime" of Christian faith in China.
Although its constitution claims that all Chinese citizens enjoy religious freedom, China remains as one of the worst violators of human rights in the world. The only legally existing churches are those under the government's strict control; anyone who refuses to follow its policies on religious practices and beliefs are forced to meet and worship in illegal house churches. If caught, they face confiscation of property, imprisonment, torture, or even death. The government's "re-education" system also sends hundreds of thousands of people, particularly Christians, to grueling work camps each year in an effort to indoctrinate them with Communist ideologies.
Bible production and distribution is also strictly controlled in China, with just a small number of the Scriptures being printed each year. But with an estimated 60 to 100 million believers currently existing in China's "underground" church, the overwhelming demand for Bibles drastically outweighs the country's supply.
Despite harsh opposition and resistance, the underground church continues to thrive in China, growing by the millions each year.
Christian Freedom International (CFI), a Michigan-based organization that assists persecuted Christians worldwide, has provided humanitarian relief and Bibles for suffering Chinese believers since 1996.
CFI urges all Christians to pray for the safety of Christians in China and that they would be encouraged to continue sharing the Gospel with others, despite the dangers they face. CFI also calls on the international community and its governments to hold China accountable for its lack of religious freedom and severe human rights abuses.
On August 8, 2008, three American Christians were arrested in China. After the group's press conference in Tiananmen Square, during which they condemned the country's widespread oppression and human rights violations, they were imprisoned and subsequently deported back to the United States.
On that same day, as the world prepared for the commencement of the Olympic Games in Beijing, several Chinese house church leaders were quietly detained in the Henan Province, in an effort by government leaders to curb protests and reports of religious persecution in the country.
On August 11, while visiting China for the Olympics, U.S. President George Bush attended a carefully staged, government-approved worship service at the Three Self Patriotic Movement Kuanjie Church. Before his visit was over, unbeknownst to the outside world, Christian social activist Hua Huiqi would be arrested and illegally detained near Beijing.
They are just a few of the thousands of people who daily risk their lives for the "crime" of Christian faith in China.
Although its constitution claims that all Chinese citizens enjoy religious freedom, China remains as one of the worst violators of human rights in the world. The only legally existing churches are those under the government's strict control; anyone who refuses to follow its policies on religious practices and beliefs are forced to meet and worship in illegal house churches. If caught, they face confiscation of property, imprisonment, torture, or even death. The government's "re-education" system also sends hundreds of thousands of people, particularly Christians, to grueling work camps each year in an effort to indoctrinate them with Communist ideologies.
Bible production and distribution is also strictly controlled in China, with just a small number of the Scriptures being printed each year. But with an estimated 60 to 100 million believers currently existing in China's "underground" church, the overwhelming demand for Bibles drastically outweighs the country's supply.
Despite harsh opposition and resistance, the underground church continues to thrive in China, growing by the millions each year.
Christian Freedom International (CFI), a Michigan-based organization that assists persecuted Christians worldwide, has provided humanitarian relief and Bibles for suffering Chinese believers since 1996.
CFI urges all Christians to pray for the safety of Christians in China and that they would be encouraged to continue sharing the Gospel with others, despite the dangers they face. CFI also calls on the international community and its governments to hold China accountable for its lack of religious freedom and severe human rights abuses.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
A Little More Than Just Showing Up
If these Olympics remind me of anything, it is that getting a medal is about more than just showing up. This morning all the networks in Des Moines congratulated Shawn Johnson on getting her gold...finally. Not to diminish anything this girl has done, but it seems hardly worth the celebration. I mean, Shawn Johnson was supposed to win FOUR of these things, was she not? She was supposed to be the mini-Michael Phelps, the new American golden sweetheart. Heck, she's even hawking $500 golden pendants for Brodkeys. And yet there was no guarantee she was going to get that gold medal. Just the eager expectation that she would...in some cases, the over-zealous expectation that she would win in her quest for gold. Just watch the Hy-Vee commercials.
If anyone has this thing in perspective, it is Shawn herself. While most of the state of Iowa, and indeed the rest of the country itself, felt disappointed for her three silvers it was Shawn who had the solid gold attitude. "I'm happy to get any medal," she said. She didn't just say that...she looked like she meant it. By all accounts, she was having the time of her life at these Olympics. She went so far as to say that her competitors were just as talented as she was and that even if she got last place she would be happy to be there. At 16 she somehow manages to be more mature that I am at 31. (Yes, I did yell at the TV, the judges, her teammates, and the Chinese gymnasts...everyone who was messing up her chances!) In a nation of people, myself included, who feel rather entitled to every honor they receive it is nice to know that somewhere there is someone who can step back and bring a little perspective to the jingo-istic medal fest that has become the Olympics.
If anyone has this thing in perspective, it is Shawn herself. While most of the state of Iowa, and indeed the rest of the country itself, felt disappointed for her three silvers it was Shawn who had the solid gold attitude. "I'm happy to get any medal," she said. She didn't just say that...she looked like she meant it. By all accounts, she was having the time of her life at these Olympics. She went so far as to say that her competitors were just as talented as she was and that even if she got last place she would be happy to be there. At 16 she somehow manages to be more mature that I am at 31. (Yes, I did yell at the TV, the judges, her teammates, and the Chinese gymnasts...everyone who was messing up her chances!) In a nation of people, myself included, who feel rather entitled to every honor they receive it is nice to know that somewhere there is someone who can step back and bring a little perspective to the jingo-istic medal fest that has become the Olympics.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Presbymeme II
The Rev. Bruce Reyes-Chow posted these questions on his blog today. I thought I would take the opportunity to answer them. Why not?
1. What is your favorite faith-based hymn, song or chorus?
Well, I don't want to sound silly, but Christian metal played an essential role in my coming to faith. I would have to say 'Into the Abyss' by Vengeance Rising. I know, apocalyptic thrash metal isn't everyone's cup of tea.
2. What was the context, content and/or topic of the last sermon that truly touched, convicted, inspired, challenged, comforted and/or otherwise moved you?
I don't hear a lot of sermons these days. I will say I was impressed with the passion and empathy with which my future wife's pastor preached about Immigration a month or so ago. It was one of those 'skin-crawling, hair standing up, grip the pew' uncomfortable moments. But I applaud him for preaching that message and afflicting the comfortable!
3. If you could have all Presbyterians read just one of your previous posts, what would it be and why?
I don't have a lot of these to choose from, but I will say I was most vulnerable in a post in which I decried the practice of attempting to change one's sexual orientation. I do indeed struggle with the underlying issue and what it means for the church. I hope anyone who reads it would see my pastoral intention to put the individual first, regardless of my personal belief, and to be open to hearing God's voice in any situation.
4. What are three PC(USA) flavored blogs you read on a regular basis?
Classical Presbyterian - Toby Brown
Shuck & Jive - John Shuck
Decently and In Order - more of a podcast, but I still check it often
5. If the PC(USA) were a movie, what would it be and why?
I would say 'Revenge of the Sith'. That moment where Mace Windu stands ready to violate the Jedi code and assisinate Chancellor Palpatine without trial (for the greater good, of course)...that speaks volumes to me about how some Presbyterians relate to those with whom they disagree.
1. What is your favorite faith-based hymn, song or chorus?
Well, I don't want to sound silly, but Christian metal played an essential role in my coming to faith. I would have to say 'Into the Abyss' by Vengeance Rising. I know, apocalyptic thrash metal isn't everyone's cup of tea.
2. What was the context, content and/or topic of the last sermon that truly touched, convicted, inspired, challenged, comforted and/or otherwise moved you?
I don't hear a lot of sermons these days. I will say I was impressed with the passion and empathy with which my future wife's pastor preached about Immigration a month or so ago. It was one of those 'skin-crawling, hair standing up, grip the pew' uncomfortable moments. But I applaud him for preaching that message and afflicting the comfortable!
3. If you could have all Presbyterians read just one of your previous posts, what would it be and why?
I don't have a lot of these to choose from, but I will say I was most vulnerable in a post in which I decried the practice of attempting to change one's sexual orientation. I do indeed struggle with the underlying issue and what it means for the church. I hope anyone who reads it would see my pastoral intention to put the individual first, regardless of my personal belief, and to be open to hearing God's voice in any situation.
4. What are three PC(USA) flavored blogs you read on a regular basis?
Classical Presbyterian - Toby Brown
Shuck & Jive - John Shuck
Decently and In Order - more of a podcast, but I still check it often
5. If the PC(USA) were a movie, what would it be and why?
I would say 'Revenge of the Sith'. That moment where Mace Windu stands ready to violate the Jedi code and assisinate Chancellor Palpatine without trial (for the greater good, of course)...that speaks volumes to me about how some Presbyterians relate to those with whom they disagree.
Duped in China?
During the past two weeks, I have encouraged memebers of my congregation to be in prayer for the people of China. As the Olympics put this nation in the spotlight, many were afraid that the glimmer of the Olympic torch would bedazzle the people of the world and make them forget about the harsh repression of the Communist regime that rules there. If this was the plan, then the authorities might just have won the publicity battle. Tibet, free speech, political persection...all of these issues have been enthusiastically dropped in favor of a few gold medals. Yet, thousands of Christians in this country continue to be in prayer for the billions of people in this nation.
Sadly, it seems that even the progressive magazine Christian Century has lost perspective on this issue. In a recent article entitled "The Chinese At Worship", Stuart C. Strother examines Chinese Christianity first-hand. He visits officially sanctioned Three-Self Churches as well as so called 'underground' churches that are not registered with the government. Meeting native Christians of all stripes, he concludes that, "While tales of persecution of the Chinese church in the past were generally accurate, these stories persist because they appeal to our appetite for sensational news more than because they reflect the truth. The story of the healthy Chinese church that peacefully coexists with the government is less sensational, but its one that needs to be told."
Really, Mr. Strother, how can you believe this good news? Aren't you curious about the lack of protests during the first week of the Olympics? Did you read the reports that protesters who applied for permits were arrested on the spot? Did you visit the Muslim communities in the West and ask them if this newfound toleration applies to them? Doesn't it all seem a little too good to be true?
This isn't the first time I have heard progressives serve as apologists for the Communist regime in China. My own denomination, the PC(USA) maintains relations with the CCC and has recently published several articles about similar progress. It is a shame that this misinformation is coming from progressive liberals who seem to be in complete ignorance of every act of repression committed by the Chinese government toward its own people. If any thing is certain about the Church in China, it is that nothing is certain. You can believe the propaganda if you wish, but in a country with such a vicious civil rights record can you truly believe the words of those who are talking to a foreign journalist? Certainly Mr. Strother's subjects are not to blame for this. They are the ones who must live under such oppression and have to fear the consequences of their words. It is rather Mr. Strother who must be blamed for a lack of critical thinking.
The last thing we as American Christians need to do is stampede into Asia and try forcibly protest this situation. The primary reason for Christian persecution is the fear that these Christians want to overthrow the government. On the other hand, we should not buy into this 'all is well' message, either. It is obvious that all is not well. Perhaps, once the Olympic spotlight is over and journalists no longer fear deportation for covering controversial stories, we will hear the truth about life in China. Until then, let us continue to pray!
Sadly, it seems that even the progressive magazine Christian Century has lost perspective on this issue. In a recent article entitled "The Chinese At Worship", Stuart C. Strother examines Chinese Christianity first-hand. He visits officially sanctioned Three-Self Churches as well as so called 'underground' churches that are not registered with the government. Meeting native Christians of all stripes, he concludes that, "While tales of persecution of the Chinese church in the past were generally accurate, these stories persist because they appeal to our appetite for sensational news more than because they reflect the truth. The story of the healthy Chinese church that peacefully coexists with the government is less sensational, but its one that needs to be told."
Really, Mr. Strother, how can you believe this good news? Aren't you curious about the lack of protests during the first week of the Olympics? Did you read the reports that protesters who applied for permits were arrested on the spot? Did you visit the Muslim communities in the West and ask them if this newfound toleration applies to them? Doesn't it all seem a little too good to be true?
This isn't the first time I have heard progressives serve as apologists for the Communist regime in China. My own denomination, the PC(USA) maintains relations with the CCC and has recently published several articles about similar progress. It is a shame that this misinformation is coming from progressive liberals who seem to be in complete ignorance of every act of repression committed by the Chinese government toward its own people. If any thing is certain about the Church in China, it is that nothing is certain. You can believe the propaganda if you wish, but in a country with such a vicious civil rights record can you truly believe the words of those who are talking to a foreign journalist? Certainly Mr. Strother's subjects are not to blame for this. They are the ones who must live under such oppression and have to fear the consequences of their words. It is rather Mr. Strother who must be blamed for a lack of critical thinking.
The last thing we as American Christians need to do is stampede into Asia and try forcibly protest this situation. The primary reason for Christian persecution is the fear that these Christians want to overthrow the government. On the other hand, we should not buy into this 'all is well' message, either. It is obvious that all is not well. Perhaps, once the Olympic spotlight is over and journalists no longer fear deportation for covering controversial stories, we will hear the truth about life in China. Until then, let us continue to pray!
Monday, August 4, 2008
Starting Over
Wow. It has been over a year since I started this blog on a whim. In that period of time, much has changed. I have moved to Iowa and succumbed to the freezing...ahem...fall weather and a winter from wherever it is that hell freezes over. I have gotten to know a bunch of new people in a new parish and am adjusting to living in a small town once again. Its been a great year! The first of fifty years in Hartford according to the fine print of my contract, says the Personnel Committee.
Well, now that I am learning the ropes I figure that it is time to reboot this blog in the hope that I will do or say something meanful that will inspire someone somewhere. That is really all we bloggers can hope to do, right? Coming off of a week of Synod School where I was challenged to think, reflect, and yes...write...I think it is high time I make this a practice of mine. I have debated about whether or not to leave everything up or start over. But I have grown to like my writings and until I offend someone vigorously, I will keep them up. I am challenging myself to think outside the box, so I best be able to live with the consequences!
If you are reading this and a little confused as to my blog title, I want to take a minute to explain that while I do appreciate the fact the you can spell the word 'Presbyterians' by using all the letters of Britney Spears, my favorite female Presbyterian celebrity would probably be Robin Roberts.
I will try my best to blog. You should try it, too!
Well, now that I am learning the ropes I figure that it is time to reboot this blog in the hope that I will do or say something meanful that will inspire someone somewhere. That is really all we bloggers can hope to do, right? Coming off of a week of Synod School where I was challenged to think, reflect, and yes...write...I think it is high time I make this a practice of mine. I have debated about whether or not to leave everything up or start over. But I have grown to like my writings and until I offend someone vigorously, I will keep them up. I am challenging myself to think outside the box, so I best be able to live with the consequences!
If you are reading this and a little confused as to my blog title, I want to take a minute to explain that while I do appreciate the fact the you can spell the word 'Presbyterians' by using all the letters of Britney Spears, my favorite female Presbyterian celebrity would probably be Robin Roberts.
I will try my best to blog. You should try it, too!
Thursday, April 3, 2008
The thing I miss...
It has been almost a year since I left Florida to accept a call to serve in my home state of Iowa. That is hard to believe! Still, I am starting to come around to the idea that this is where I want to be. There is only one thing holding me back, and it is a stupid little thing that really made no difference in my life whatsoever until two years ago. Baseball.
I never really cared for baseball growing up. Sure, I collected baseball cards. I even had a favorite team: the Chicago White Sox. Believe it or not, my favorite player was Ozzie Guillen, the out-spoken and sometime psychotic manager that led the Sox to the series a few years back. Because I spent summers with my dad in Colorado and Wyoming, I was never able to play little league baseball and eventually lost interest in the whole thing. Until I was looking for something better to do.
I was very deliberate when I moved to Spring Hill, Florida that I would try to get into one of the local teams. My devotion to the Broncos meant following the Bucs wasn't an option. I didn't care for hockey, so the Lightning weren't very attractive. But like a ray from heaven (pun intended), I was drawn to baseball. All things equal it was probably a combination of the fact that the D-Rays at that time we offering free parking and cheap tickets that I chose to attend some games. Still, I made my choice to follow the worst team in baseball ball and soon I became (for me) a baseball fanatic.
Tropicana Stadium has been rated by many as one of the worst ballparks in the major leagues. It is true. For me, it was a place of Zen. Sitting in the cheap seats, watching a professional baseball game...amazing! I had never had that experience before. I loved it! Not all the games were irrelevant. There were Yankee and Red Sox games where the building was alive (and where the Rays were the underdog in their own stadium!). There were games that lasted well into the night. There were free cowbells. It was wonderful. Going to the Trop was one of the great joys of my time in Florida, and along with Sea World, is really the only thing I miss about living in Florida.
Sadly, my newfound love of the Rays is something I have had to give up as I have moved back to Iowa. I have to venture far and wide to find games to watch. (Thank goodness they play a series in the Twin Cities and another in KC!) I pray that they play the Yankees or Red Sox so that they might be on television. (I get to watch them on Monday Night Baseball next week!) It will take a little more effort, but I think I can manage. I might be waxing nostalgic. While the Rays were on TV in the Tampa area, its not like anyone supported them. You had to search far and wide to find their hats and jerseys next to the Yankees crap. Yet, it was my team. It remains one of my regrets... that I can no longer root, root, root for the home team.
Alas, I will still wear my TB gear with pride, even if I get laughed at by the guy in the Cubs hat. I made out like a bandit this winter and added three more hats to my collection, on clearance in Iowa. Just in time. They changed their uniforms in the spring.
I never really cared for baseball growing up. Sure, I collected baseball cards. I even had a favorite team: the Chicago White Sox. Believe it or not, my favorite player was Ozzie Guillen, the out-spoken and sometime psychotic manager that led the Sox to the series a few years back. Because I spent summers with my dad in Colorado and Wyoming, I was never able to play little league baseball and eventually lost interest in the whole thing. Until I was looking for something better to do.
I was very deliberate when I moved to Spring Hill, Florida that I would try to get into one of the local teams. My devotion to the Broncos meant following the Bucs wasn't an option. I didn't care for hockey, so the Lightning weren't very attractive. But like a ray from heaven (pun intended), I was drawn to baseball. All things equal it was probably a combination of the fact that the D-Rays at that time we offering free parking and cheap tickets that I chose to attend some games. Still, I made my choice to follow the worst team in baseball ball and soon I became (for me) a baseball fanatic.
Tropicana Stadium has been rated by many as one of the worst ballparks in the major leagues. It is true. For me, it was a place of Zen. Sitting in the cheap seats, watching a professional baseball game...amazing! I had never had that experience before. I loved it! Not all the games were irrelevant. There were Yankee and Red Sox games where the building was alive (and where the Rays were the underdog in their own stadium!). There were games that lasted well into the night. There were free cowbells. It was wonderful. Going to the Trop was one of the great joys of my time in Florida, and along with Sea World, is really the only thing I miss about living in Florida.
Sadly, my newfound love of the Rays is something I have had to give up as I have moved back to Iowa. I have to venture far and wide to find games to watch. (Thank goodness they play a series in the Twin Cities and another in KC!) I pray that they play the Yankees or Red Sox so that they might be on television. (I get to watch them on Monday Night Baseball next week!) It will take a little more effort, but I think I can manage. I might be waxing nostalgic. While the Rays were on TV in the Tampa area, its not like anyone supported them. You had to search far and wide to find their hats and jerseys next to the Yankees crap. Yet, it was my team. It remains one of my regrets... that I can no longer root, root, root for the home team.
Alas, I will still wear my TB gear with pride, even if I get laughed at by the guy in the Cubs hat. I made out like a bandit this winter and added three more hats to my collection, on clearance in Iowa. Just in time. They changed their uniforms in the spring.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Theology...bad at it I am.
Maybe a Presbyterian minister shouldn't admit that they struggle to understand theology. I have to say that I am a little concerned that this might be taken the wrong way. Still, I will take the plunge and say it out loud. I don't like theology. Never have, never will.
Oh, I should clarify.
See, the word theology is seemingly simple to define. Theo = God Ology = study of Not to hard to work out, right? You wouldn't think so except for the fact that numerous church fathers, bishops, philosophers, pastors, bloggers, and yes, even theologians have through the centuries hi-jacked the word theology to suit their own descriptions of certain Christian belief systems. Thus you have Pauline theology, Augustinian theology, Calvinist theology (which interestingly enough is NOT always a synonym of Reformed theology), Neo-Orthodox theology... The list goes on, endlessly into yawns. Even worse is the fact that somewhere someone proposed the idea that philosophy is the handmaiden of theology. The result? What poses as theology today is an impenetrable force field of long paragraphs, exclusivist systems, and expensive textbooks. That is theology. Or, for lack of a better term, that is what many people today call theology.
Personally I was always a little bit skeptical about this whole theology thing, at least as it is expressed in those terms. It seems that people spend a lot of their 'study time' arguing about their individual interpretations of the bible and its commentators rather than studying. I am even surprised at the vehemence that certain members of my lectionary group display when someone makes a comment with which they happen to disagree. I guess it figures. Go back and read Calvin or Luther. They spend a significant amount of their time arguing points of doctrine by using the pen to rhetorically assassinate their 'opponents'. Bloggers have nothing on the Institues of the Christian Religion!
I wonder why it has served the churches purposes to contain orthodoxy theology into little boxes. My college band instructor reminded us that we played our instruments we weren't merely practicing how to manipulate wooden and metal devices to make certain sounds. We were acting as stewards of creation by mastering our instruments and teaching them to obey us. Musicians are stewards of Creation who use the very air to bring glory to God. Can't the study of music be theology? Surely we can learn about God when we read our bibles. Yet, does James 1:22 tell us that we are are not merely to try to understand the Word by hearing, but instead to practice it by doing? When do acts of justice, love, and compassion become theology?
I accept that I have to labor within certain bounds to keep my theology orthodox. I am, after all, a Presbyterian minister and I should expect to keep some level of consistency with others of the same denomination. I am not going to start praying to Mary or go on a pilgrimage to Mecca any time soon. I am safe. Yet, there are those whose box for God is so small that it truly frightens me. They create a club within a club, seeking converts and slaying enemies. I really don't want to participate in that enterprise. I will admit, I am not theologically adept. I forgot Hebrew the minute I passed OT II and I didn't even read half of my Theology assignments. But I love reading and praying and hearing hymns and seeing what the people of my congregation can do. I may not know for sure if I can assent to the Five Points of Calvinism any more, but I do know that God is working in me, through me, and with me to do some pretty neat things. I am going to spend some time figuring out what that is. I'll save Barth for later.
Oh, I should clarify.
See, the word theology is seemingly simple to define. Theo = God Ology = study of Not to hard to work out, right? You wouldn't think so except for the fact that numerous church fathers, bishops, philosophers, pastors, bloggers, and yes, even theologians have through the centuries hi-jacked the word theology to suit their own descriptions of certain Christian belief systems. Thus you have Pauline theology, Augustinian theology, Calvinist theology (which interestingly enough is NOT always a synonym of Reformed theology), Neo-Orthodox theology... The list goes on, endlessly into yawns. Even worse is the fact that somewhere someone proposed the idea that philosophy is the handmaiden of theology. The result? What poses as theology today is an impenetrable force field of long paragraphs, exclusivist systems, and expensive textbooks. That is theology. Or, for lack of a better term, that is what many people today call theology.
Personally I was always a little bit skeptical about this whole theology thing, at least as it is expressed in those terms. It seems that people spend a lot of their 'study time' arguing about their individual interpretations of the bible and its commentators rather than studying. I am even surprised at the vehemence that certain members of my lectionary group display when someone makes a comment with which they happen to disagree. I guess it figures. Go back and read Calvin or Luther. They spend a significant amount of their time arguing points of doctrine by using the pen to rhetorically assassinate their 'opponents'. Bloggers have nothing on the Institues of the Christian Religion!
I wonder why it has served the churches purposes to contain orthodoxy theology into little boxes. My college band instructor reminded us that we played our instruments we weren't merely practicing how to manipulate wooden and metal devices to make certain sounds. We were acting as stewards of creation by mastering our instruments and teaching them to obey us. Musicians are stewards of Creation who use the very air to bring glory to God. Can't the study of music be theology? Surely we can learn about God when we read our bibles. Yet, does James 1:22 tell us that we are are not merely to try to understand the Word by hearing, but instead to practice it by doing? When do acts of justice, love, and compassion become theology?
I accept that I have to labor within certain bounds to keep my theology orthodox. I am, after all, a Presbyterian minister and I should expect to keep some level of consistency with others of the same denomination. I am not going to start praying to Mary or go on a pilgrimage to Mecca any time soon. I am safe. Yet, there are those whose box for God is so small that it truly frightens me. They create a club within a club, seeking converts and slaying enemies. I really don't want to participate in that enterprise. I will admit, I am not theologically adept. I forgot Hebrew the minute I passed OT II and I didn't even read half of my Theology assignments. But I love reading and praying and hearing hymns and seeing what the people of my congregation can do. I may not know for sure if I can assent to the Five Points of Calvinism any more, but I do know that God is working in me, through me, and with me to do some pretty neat things. I am going to spend some time figuring out what that is. I'll save Barth for later.
Tuesday, April 1, 2008
I miss CCM
Going to the mall is one of my favorite escapes. I know. This is a pretty shallow indictment of my own materialism. Yet, there is something about malls that still relaxs me. Just sitting in the food court, watching people mill around. The mall, of course, is where 80's movies tell us that teens love to hang out. We had to drive an hour to the nearest mall, but it was still our favorite destination when we went to see our grandparents. There was one place I would head as soon as I entered into that hallowed halls. You might be thinking...the arcade? Spencer Gifts? Game Spot? No, no and no. It was the Christian bookstore!
The fact that I could spend an hour in a Christian bookstore did not make me very popular with friends. It didn't even make me very popular with my mom. But I was interested in one thing and one thing only: the Christian music racks. I loved CCM (Christian Contemporary Music) as it was called then. I could spend hours listening to every demo cassette on the demo rack, trying to find the next Christian band to 'get into' before I got dragged out of there. I loved Christian Rock, even before it was cool to walk around with a Relient K t-shirt on. Boy how I miss those days.
Back in the 80s and 90s, Christian rock music was very much a novelty. Most of the posters on the wall were of milquetoast rockers like Stephen Curtis Chapman and Micheal W. Smith. But if you dug deep, you could find the real diamonds in the rough. Christian metal! While I listened to bands like Cinderella, Poison, Bang Tango, and Skid Row I always felt secretly guilty for doing so. When I heard about Stryper, a real live Christian metal band, I was hooked. From then on, I would head straight to the Rock section to see (and hear!) about other bands that jumped on the bandwagon.
Back then I was in the loop. I loved all the stuff on Frontline Records: Vengeance Rising, Tourniquet, Mortification, etc. My taste became harder as CCM embraced more extreme forms of metal. Tooth and Nail records introduced punk, hardcore, and alternative. Before long even the clean-cut kiddie groups like DC Talk and Newsboys began to get a harder edge. Oh, I didn't know what I had until it was gone. I listened to heavier music than most of my friends and could also pull of the whole "indie" thing because no one had ever heard of most of my music. It was great. I even swore one day I would kick the secular music habit completely.
Well, that day never came. Honestly, there were a lot of things that went into that. Mainly it was because like all good things, CCM came to an end. Don't get me wrong. You can still buy music in Christian bookstores to day. But little of it is CCM. A lot of bands have ditched the 'Christian' thing, which is fine in some cases, but then why would I buy their CD instead of the more talented mainstream equivalent. Much of the Christian music is not what I would call contemporary. Praise Music has ruined much of CCM's musical innovation. And well, I will just be a jerk and say that much of what is pressed on CDs and labelled CCM these days is such bad music that it is just...well, sad.
These days I don't care much for most Christian bookstores. Many only carry books and resources by conservative evangelical publishing corporations that confuse the word 'theology' with 'End Times prophecy'. Of the few I frequent, I usually stay away from their music section. Too many memories. I'd rather remember the music I liked from those pioneers of pop culture. Tattooed emo kids will never understand.
The fact that I could spend an hour in a Christian bookstore did not make me very popular with friends. It didn't even make me very popular with my mom. But I was interested in one thing and one thing only: the Christian music racks. I loved CCM (Christian Contemporary Music) as it was called then. I could spend hours listening to every demo cassette on the demo rack, trying to find the next Christian band to 'get into' before I got dragged out of there. I loved Christian Rock, even before it was cool to walk around with a Relient K t-shirt on. Boy how I miss those days.
Back in the 80s and 90s, Christian rock music was very much a novelty. Most of the posters on the wall were of milquetoast rockers like Stephen Curtis Chapman and Micheal W. Smith. But if you dug deep, you could find the real diamonds in the rough. Christian metal! While I listened to bands like Cinderella, Poison, Bang Tango, and Skid Row I always felt secretly guilty for doing so. When I heard about Stryper, a real live Christian metal band, I was hooked. From then on, I would head straight to the Rock section to see (and hear!) about other bands that jumped on the bandwagon.
Back then I was in the loop. I loved all the stuff on Frontline Records: Vengeance Rising, Tourniquet, Mortification, etc. My taste became harder as CCM embraced more extreme forms of metal. Tooth and Nail records introduced punk, hardcore, and alternative. Before long even the clean-cut kiddie groups like DC Talk and Newsboys began to get a harder edge. Oh, I didn't know what I had until it was gone. I listened to heavier music than most of my friends and could also pull of the whole "indie" thing because no one had ever heard of most of my music. It was great. I even swore one day I would kick the secular music habit completely.
Well, that day never came. Honestly, there were a lot of things that went into that. Mainly it was because like all good things, CCM came to an end. Don't get me wrong. You can still buy music in Christian bookstores to day. But little of it is CCM. A lot of bands have ditched the 'Christian' thing, which is fine in some cases, but then why would I buy their CD instead of the more talented mainstream equivalent. Much of the Christian music is not what I would call contemporary. Praise Music has ruined much of CCM's musical innovation. And well, I will just be a jerk and say that much of what is pressed on CDs and labelled CCM these days is such bad music that it is just...well, sad.
These days I don't care much for most Christian bookstores. Many only carry books and resources by conservative evangelical publishing corporations that confuse the word 'theology' with 'End Times prophecy'. Of the few I frequent, I usually stay away from their music section. Too many memories. I'd rather remember the music I liked from those pioneers of pop culture. Tattooed emo kids will never understand.
Monday, March 17, 2008
Angry...not a problem.
I get angry a lot. Not mad...angry. My emotional make up does not allow me to let anger slip away easily. It is hard to keep from dwelling on anger, as Yoda would be quick to tell you. Anger is what doomed Anakin Skywalker and turned him into Darth Vader. Anger led to the Dark Side, the easy path. As he would go on to teach Anakin's son Luke turning to the Dark Side is a constant temptation for those who seek to have power.
You don't have to have a Stormtrooper helmet on your mantle to know that anger is not merely a problem for Jedi in the Star Wars universe. We all struggle with our anger. Yet, we realize that anger leads to power. When people who are angry use their rhetorical talents to lash out others, they have taken the quick and easy path. They have turned to the Dark Side because they realize what power their anger holds will get the job done much sooner if they can make other people angry. Hence my struggle in writing blogs.
Every day I return to several websites that tempt me to take the quick and easy path. My anger boils and I want to lash out. I stew over feelings of bitterness and look for a way to harm others through my words. Thankfully, I often fail to make full use of my anger. Others are more adept. As I read what other Presbyterian ministers write on certain websites and blogs, I just can't imagine what it must feel like to be so angry all the time. Indeed, it is those who possess that loudest voices that get heard. There are some very loud voices. While I understand where many are coming from theologically and politically, it is the anger that turns me away.
As much as I struggle with anger, I am glad that God helps me to restrain it. Anger can tear someone apart. The Dark Side of all of us threatens to undo us and everything we preach: love, patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control, etc. You get the picture. Down in my heart I know I would make a terrible Sith Lord. Still, that does not stop me from having those Darth Vader moments where I desire my thoughts and words to have absolute power. (Thank God I don't have a Force Grip to go with my anger!) Today I pray that the Holy Spirit will diffuse my anger so that I can enjoy the presence of Christ this week. It is not my job to overturn the tables in the Temple. Jesus is the only one I know who can pull of the righteous indignation thing.
You don't have to have a Stormtrooper helmet on your mantle to know that anger is not merely a problem for Jedi in the Star Wars universe. We all struggle with our anger. Yet, we realize that anger leads to power. When people who are angry use their rhetorical talents to lash out others, they have taken the quick and easy path. They have turned to the Dark Side because they realize what power their anger holds will get the job done much sooner if they can make other people angry. Hence my struggle in writing blogs.
Every day I return to several websites that tempt me to take the quick and easy path. My anger boils and I want to lash out. I stew over feelings of bitterness and look for a way to harm others through my words. Thankfully, I often fail to make full use of my anger. Others are more adept. As I read what other Presbyterian ministers write on certain websites and blogs, I just can't imagine what it must feel like to be so angry all the time. Indeed, it is those who possess that loudest voices that get heard. There are some very loud voices. While I understand where many are coming from theologically and politically, it is the anger that turns me away.
As much as I struggle with anger, I am glad that God helps me to restrain it. Anger can tear someone apart. The Dark Side of all of us threatens to undo us and everything we preach: love, patience, kindness, gentleness, self-control, etc. You get the picture. Down in my heart I know I would make a terrible Sith Lord. Still, that does not stop me from having those Darth Vader moments where I desire my thoughts and words to have absolute power. (Thank God I don't have a Force Grip to go with my anger!) Today I pray that the Holy Spirit will diffuse my anger so that I can enjoy the presence of Christ this week. It is not my job to overturn the tables in the Temple. Jesus is the only one I know who can pull of the righteous indignation thing.
Sunday, March 16, 2008
Why I would rather give up eating at Burger King than go to hell
I know that many Presbyterian pastors are frustrated with the national office of the Presbyterian Church. What I don't understand is how anyone who is a Christian can scoff at the efforts of our those in our denomination who are asking large corporations to think about the true price we pay for cheap food. The issue is complex for sure and I am not so much of a news junky that I follow all the details of the story. I have, however, seen the living conditions of many of these farmworkers. I have heard first-hand how Florida farmers high illegal aliens to work in their fields, then stiff them for the work they've done, essentially blackmailing them into silence with the threat of deportation. I have seen the children who do poorly in school because of the lack of family stability. It is a horrible situation.
I am not sure what the proper legal steps would be to address this situation. Perhaps certain critics have it right when they peg us as naive to think that we can make a difference. I would have to agree that we are probably taking on the wrong people in a corporation when it is mainly the farmers themselves who are to blame for low wages and terrible working conditions. Yet, cheap labor is the reason why you can get a $5 meal at Burger King. It hardly seems worth it at that price. How can anyone who has read the bible stand up for these farmers? How can anyone who takes the prophets, including Jesus himself, seriously mock these efforts? I just don't get it.
I am not sure what the proper legal steps would be to address this situation. Perhaps certain critics have it right when they peg us as naive to think that we can make a difference. I would have to agree that we are probably taking on the wrong people in a corporation when it is mainly the farmers themselves who are to blame for low wages and terrible working conditions. Yet, cheap labor is the reason why you can get a $5 meal at Burger King. It hardly seems worth it at that price. How can anyone who has read the bible stand up for these farmers? How can anyone who takes the prophets, including Jesus himself, seriously mock these efforts? I just don't get it.
Saturday, March 15, 2008
Doctors, Psychologists, Scientists, and other Jerks who get it wrong!
I don't know why it is that some pastors feel the need to take on the entire scientific establishment. Whether it is the subject of Creationism or the fight over Global Warming, overwhelming scientific consensus apparently causes a lot of suspicion among my more conservative colleagues. I can't figure it out. We seem perfectly content to let scientists develop computers for us. I don't see anyone completely rejecting the medical profession and performing surgery on their own. Yet, when it comes to some issues, we act like the men and women who have dedicated their lives to scientific study are the naive ones who base most of their assumptions on the leftist agendas taught by their communist college professors.
Honestly, I have no idea what I think about evolution theory. I haven't studied it and don't plan on doing so. I don't think I have much to contribute to the conversation and am generally bored with it to tell the truth. As for the global warming deal, I would also have to take a pass. I don't understand the science behind it and I do see tremendous hypocrisy in someone like Al Gore who leaves Yeti-sized "carbon footprints" all over the grounds of his mansion. The thing that gets to me though is that regardless of whether or not someone agrees with the science, it is generally a good idea to protect the environment. It doesn't take some scientific theory for me to understand that their is no future in fossil fuels or that it probably isn't a good thing to fill our landfills with so many plastic bags. You don't have to agree with the weather-man to see that that is probably a bad idea.
In the same vein, I don't think we all have to agree on an issue like homosexuality to engage it pastorally. The overwhelming majority of doctors and psychologists agree it is pychologically harmful to subject homosexuals to therapy that is designed to make them straight. I don't believe for a minute that these doctors are part of some left-wing attack on American values. This comes directly from their clinical experience: reparative therapy is damaging to individuals who profess same-sex attraction. That is it. It is not a value judgement. It is not a statement on gay culture. It is a time-tested observation made not at the behest of some advocacy group, but from clinical experience.
That being said, I am sure this information comes as a challenge. It certainly does for many of our more conservative brothers and sisters. I myself don't know whether I come down on the nature or nurture side of the debate. However, it doesn't matter. The challenge for me is to respond pastorally. Before I make any value judgement, I have to understand that we are all children of God and that I must think and pray before counselling anyone. In this case, thinking means doing research and the research says that you cannot 'ungay' someone. Okay. That is where I have to start.
I think 'ungayification' is a comfortable place for many pastors to dwell. It is a way to push a perceived problem off onto someone else. It makes the problem go away. To paraphrase the movie 'Saved', sending someone to treatment isn't as much about the person being treated as it is reassurance for the pastor/parent/spouse who sends that person there. The fact that someone can be harmed or damaged permanently from these treatments does frighten me. I would never want to be responsible for that. Never. Unforunately many pastors (as well as their parishoners) see themselves as spiritual therapists and are quick to apply a spiritual remedy to a issue that is mental, physical, and emotional all rolled into one.
I think the main challenge is for us to listen to the words of those who are knowledgeable and still maintain our spiritual integrity so that we can address the individual. I, for one, will be honest and say that I struggle with how to make sense out of what the bible has to say about homosexuality. I have never really gone along with the hermeneutical gymnastics required to somehow excise these texts from the scriptures. I wouldn't want to do that on any issue, whether it is divorce, drunkeness, sexual immorality, or greed. We have the biblical text as it is. What we do with it is for me the more important issue. Take an issue such as divorce and you will see how the church has come around to being pastoral when it would be much easier to be critical.
I don't know why there is so much pressure in our church culture for us to 'pick sides' in these debates. I am not pro or anti anything. Honestly, I find the bible to be a complex document and find Jesus to be a complex person. My confidence in the issues does not come from knowing what is right or wrong. It comes from my faith in the work of the Holy Spirit. I am a not a doctor, a psychologist or a scientist. I am a pastor. I respond with the love of Christ.
Honestly, I have no idea what I think about evolution theory. I haven't studied it and don't plan on doing so. I don't think I have much to contribute to the conversation and am generally bored with it to tell the truth. As for the global warming deal, I would also have to take a pass. I don't understand the science behind it and I do see tremendous hypocrisy in someone like Al Gore who leaves Yeti-sized "carbon footprints" all over the grounds of his mansion. The thing that gets to me though is that regardless of whether or not someone agrees with the science, it is generally a good idea to protect the environment. It doesn't take some scientific theory for me to understand that their is no future in fossil fuels or that it probably isn't a good thing to fill our landfills with so many plastic bags. You don't have to agree with the weather-man to see that that is probably a bad idea.
In the same vein, I don't think we all have to agree on an issue like homosexuality to engage it pastorally. The overwhelming majority of doctors and psychologists agree it is pychologically harmful to subject homosexuals to therapy that is designed to make them straight. I don't believe for a minute that these doctors are part of some left-wing attack on American values. This comes directly from their clinical experience: reparative therapy is damaging to individuals who profess same-sex attraction. That is it. It is not a value judgement. It is not a statement on gay culture. It is a time-tested observation made not at the behest of some advocacy group, but from clinical experience.
That being said, I am sure this information comes as a challenge. It certainly does for many of our more conservative brothers and sisters. I myself don't know whether I come down on the nature or nurture side of the debate. However, it doesn't matter. The challenge for me is to respond pastorally. Before I make any value judgement, I have to understand that we are all children of God and that I must think and pray before counselling anyone. In this case, thinking means doing research and the research says that you cannot 'ungay' someone. Okay. That is where I have to start.
I think 'ungayification' is a comfortable place for many pastors to dwell. It is a way to push a perceived problem off onto someone else. It makes the problem go away. To paraphrase the movie 'Saved', sending someone to treatment isn't as much about the person being treated as it is reassurance for the pastor/parent/spouse who sends that person there. The fact that someone can be harmed or damaged permanently from these treatments does frighten me. I would never want to be responsible for that. Never. Unforunately many pastors (as well as their parishoners) see themselves as spiritual therapists and are quick to apply a spiritual remedy to a issue that is mental, physical, and emotional all rolled into one.
I think the main challenge is for us to listen to the words of those who are knowledgeable and still maintain our spiritual integrity so that we can address the individual. I, for one, will be honest and say that I struggle with how to make sense out of what the bible has to say about homosexuality. I have never really gone along with the hermeneutical gymnastics required to somehow excise these texts from the scriptures. I wouldn't want to do that on any issue, whether it is divorce, drunkeness, sexual immorality, or greed. We have the biblical text as it is. What we do with it is for me the more important issue. Take an issue such as divorce and you will see how the church has come around to being pastoral when it would be much easier to be critical.
I don't know why there is so much pressure in our church culture for us to 'pick sides' in these debates. I am not pro or anti anything. Honestly, I find the bible to be a complex document and find Jesus to be a complex person. My confidence in the issues does not come from knowing what is right or wrong. It comes from my faith in the work of the Holy Spirit. I am a not a doctor, a psychologist or a scientist. I am a pastor. I respond with the love of Christ.
Monday, March 3, 2008
Therapy Presbyterian Style
I have kept very few of my New Year's resolutions. In fact, there are only two that I can think of that I have kept with any sort of commitment. The first is that I have indeed only spent $12 or less on used (not new) CD's each month. Pretty astonished at keeping that one so far. My other triumph is that I have drastically reduced my number of visits to buffets. I used to love buffet joints, but now have only allowed myself one visit a month and am no worse off for it. Now, if I could just remember the rest of the list.
I do faintly remember one of my failed resolutions. It seemed silly at the time, but as I look back on it, this particular resolution would have done me a lot more good than the rest. I had planned on taking a year-long break from watching the journalistic train-wreck known as The Layman. For those who don't know, The Layman or specifically in this case The Layman Online, is a Presbyterian tabloid that is dedicated to conservative causes in the Presbyterian Church. Now I don't have anything against conservative causes in general. However, The Layman is particularly notorious among Presbyterians for its somewhat suspect journalism and its bitter tone towards people and events in the PC(USA). I thought I could easily skip this part of my morning routine, but alas, that bright yellow banner is much too tantilizing to the senses. I just have to read it.
As I browse the online edition, I am often drawn to the Letters To the Editor page, which more or less serves as a highly moderated discussion board. A dedicated core of letter writers dominates the discussion, however, I do give The Layman kudos for printing a variety of responses to their content, including negative comments. Anyway, I have longed to write a letter to editor for some time, but on several previous occasions was met with such scorn (from pastors none the less...Jim Yearsley and Russ Westbrook specifically) that I dare not put myself in the position of being rhetorically assassinated again. Instead, I had decided that anytime I felt the urge, I would write a letter to The Layman and just save it to my Draft box. Well, I thought to myself, I might as well publish something on this page. So from now on, this will be my 'letters to The Layman' junk pile. Knowing what little I do about the Presbyterian Blogosphere, I think some posts may be read by a few interested leaders. For the most part, I am just doing this as a form of self-preservation.
I do faintly remember one of my failed resolutions. It seemed silly at the time, but as I look back on it, this particular resolution would have done me a lot more good than the rest. I had planned on taking a year-long break from watching the journalistic train-wreck known as The Layman. For those who don't know, The Layman or specifically in this case The Layman Online, is a Presbyterian tabloid that is dedicated to conservative causes in the Presbyterian Church. Now I don't have anything against conservative causes in general. However, The Layman is particularly notorious among Presbyterians for its somewhat suspect journalism and its bitter tone towards people and events in the PC(USA). I thought I could easily skip this part of my morning routine, but alas, that bright yellow banner is much too tantilizing to the senses. I just have to read it.
As I browse the online edition, I am often drawn to the Letters To the Editor page, which more or less serves as a highly moderated discussion board. A dedicated core of letter writers dominates the discussion, however, I do give The Layman kudos for printing a variety of responses to their content, including negative comments. Anyway, I have longed to write a letter to editor for some time, but on several previous occasions was met with such scorn (from pastors none the less...Jim Yearsley and Russ Westbrook specifically) that I dare not put myself in the position of being rhetorically assassinated again. Instead, I had decided that anytime I felt the urge, I would write a letter to The Layman and just save it to my Draft box. Well, I thought to myself, I might as well publish something on this page. So from now on, this will be my 'letters to The Layman' junk pile. Knowing what little I do about the Presbyterian Blogosphere, I think some posts may be read by a few interested leaders. For the most part, I am just doing this as a form of self-preservation.
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