"Our struggle, our desire, our yes is significant and necessary. But in the end it is always grace that carries us up the staircase."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 325)
While I've never been a big proponent of the myth of the rugged individual that is so prevelant in our culture. Pick yourself up by your bootstraps mentality, does not take into account the presence of other selfish people around you.
I'm also not a fan of the idea of waiting for God to take care of everything by Godself. I do believe that God expects some level of effort on our part for us to make it through our earthly pilgrimage.
Yet as a person of faith, I have begun to realize how important to me God's grace is. I have experienced it in those times when I just want to quit, and yet somehow got that second wind and kept going. I have experienced it when I have felt deeply hurt by circumstances beyond my control and people who I deeply loved and cared for. And rather than spiraling down into deep despair, that grace agains comes in and lifts me up, dries my tears and says, this is not the end.
God can do many good things for us. What is truly amazing about that is the small effort that is really required on our part.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Reflections for 9/29/10
"There's a big difference between influencing culture and reflecting it. In many cases the Church tends to reflect the local prejudices and biases much more than influence and change them."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 324)
I have encountered folks within faith communities who use this very argument against each other. You can take any issue pretty much and each side will claim it is speaking against culture, while accusing the other of reflecting or accommodating.
I find it to be true that my own biases are what I tend to be more interested in promoting. It is also true that who is defining what the culture is plays a huge role in whether I believe I'm reflecting or challenging the norms.
I do think there are instances where we must adapt to the culture that we find ourselves in. We should take the time to decide whether that new norm is actually healthy and for the greater good, before endorsing it. We may also want to make sure that we don't have to sell out all of our values in order to reflect culture.
There are things going on in our world to which people of faith ought to rise up and challenge. Faith communities at their best have done this. At their worst, they fall into the trap of aiding and abetting some real evil.
As a person of faith, I can't realistically separate that part of my life from the other parts. They operate as a collective whole. Sometimes challenging the status quo, other times fitting in. The really shocking thing is when that faith challenges me and my own biases that have very little to do with my faith.
Blessings,
Ed
I have encountered folks within faith communities who use this very argument against each other. You can take any issue pretty much and each side will claim it is speaking against culture, while accusing the other of reflecting or accommodating.
I find it to be true that my own biases are what I tend to be more interested in promoting. It is also true that who is defining what the culture is plays a huge role in whether I believe I'm reflecting or challenging the norms.
I do think there are instances where we must adapt to the culture that we find ourselves in. We should take the time to decide whether that new norm is actually healthy and for the greater good, before endorsing it. We may also want to make sure that we don't have to sell out all of our values in order to reflect culture.
There are things going on in our world to which people of faith ought to rise up and challenge. Faith communities at their best have done this. At their worst, they fall into the trap of aiding and abetting some real evil.
As a person of faith, I can't realistically separate that part of my life from the other parts. They operate as a collective whole. Sometimes challenging the status quo, other times fitting in. The really shocking thing is when that faith challenges me and my own biases that have very little to do with my faith.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Reflections for 9/28/10
"Obedience is important. But I also believe in ways of listening for and hearing the Spirit beyond looking to the hierarchy or the Bible. No one else can do our homework for us."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 323)
I think I have a love-hate relationship with obedience. I'm not a natural born trouble maker, nor am I one who is often found on the forefront of any challenge to authority, at least not in demonstrative ways.
I doubt that I would have made a very good soldier, I'll play in the rules as long as they make sense. But I have been known from time to time to stand up to authority, it's just not my default position.
When I try to discern what God's will is, I will look at scripture, good to know where we've been in the beginnings of our faith, but I'll do some reflecting on what I'm reading. I do not subscribe to the bumper sticker "God said it, I believe it, that ends it." I also do respect the tradition, but again will reflect on it, ask questions of it. I don't believe the past is only full of mistakes that need to be corrected, but I won't idolize it either.
I do like the sense of accountability that comes with being part of a hierarchy, mainly because it keeps me from flying off the edge of the cliff. But I do like a little bit of freedom to make some choices and to do some thinking for myself.
I do believe that the spirit of God is alive and well. And may in fact be doing things that don't always parrot scripture or blend well with the hierarchy. But we need all three to be in conversation, to see where the will of God might be going in our generation.
Blessings,
Ed
I think I have a love-hate relationship with obedience. I'm not a natural born trouble maker, nor am I one who is often found on the forefront of any challenge to authority, at least not in demonstrative ways.
I doubt that I would have made a very good soldier, I'll play in the rules as long as they make sense. But I have been known from time to time to stand up to authority, it's just not my default position.
When I try to discern what God's will is, I will look at scripture, good to know where we've been in the beginnings of our faith, but I'll do some reflecting on what I'm reading. I do not subscribe to the bumper sticker "God said it, I believe it, that ends it." I also do respect the tradition, but again will reflect on it, ask questions of it. I don't believe the past is only full of mistakes that need to be corrected, but I won't idolize it either.
I do like the sense of accountability that comes with being part of a hierarchy, mainly because it keeps me from flying off the edge of the cliff. But I do like a little bit of freedom to make some choices and to do some thinking for myself.
I do believe that the spirit of God is alive and well. And may in fact be doing things that don't always parrot scripture or blend well with the hierarchy. But we need all three to be in conversation, to see where the will of God might be going in our generation.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflections for 9/27/10
"The beggar who continues to pester the Lord is more pleasing than the dutiful and self-sufficient servant."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.322)
In my line of work we have some folks who do what we call "lone rangering." Perhaps other jobs have similar folks, the people who do everything, do not involve others, and ultimately create a dependency on them rather than a healthy system.
It is a very hard thing to battle one's own pride. Nobody wants to be seen as needy, a beggar if you will. Yet the Bible seems to point to a God who is actually interested in hearing from us. What is is it that we want?
This seems to be countered by the phrase "God helps those who help themselves." I'm not sure that is even biblical, but it is definetely American.
We like being self-sufficient, not needing help from anyone at anytime. Yet there are very few people who never need help.
Are we smart enough and humble enough to be able to ask for help when we need it. Or do we think as long as I'm trying failure and helplessness are viable options.
Blessings,
Ed
In my line of work we have some folks who do what we call "lone rangering." Perhaps other jobs have similar folks, the people who do everything, do not involve others, and ultimately create a dependency on them rather than a healthy system.
It is a very hard thing to battle one's own pride. Nobody wants to be seen as needy, a beggar if you will. Yet the Bible seems to point to a God who is actually interested in hearing from us. What is is it that we want?
This seems to be countered by the phrase "God helps those who help themselves." I'm not sure that is even biblical, but it is definetely American.
We like being self-sufficient, not needing help from anyone at anytime. Yet there are very few people who never need help.
Are we smart enough and humble enough to be able to ask for help when we need it. Or do we think as long as I'm trying failure and helplessness are viable options.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, September 27, 2010
Reflections for 9/26/10
"Action and contemplation are the two polarities that regulate and balance the faith-filled life. It saddens me that most Christianity is right in the middle. It's neither radical interiority nor radical engagement. You don't learn much in the mediocre middle, and you don't have much to give."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.321)
When I first read that quote, I got a little bit miffed. I like the middle. I enjoy the shades of gray. I'm much more comfortable there. Radical stuff has always seemed to me to push the envelope further than it needs to go.
But there is some truth in what he says. I do believe and try to live out a faith-filled life that has both action and contemplation. Though neither is as deep as it could be. I'll take the action until there is something else calling for my attention. Unfortunately that sometimes doesn't take very long. I do not have long periods of contemplation, I don't tend to gravitate towards more than a day long retreat, though I could probably use one.
I do think that the middle isn't as mediocre as he says. It isn't red hot passionate stuff, but it works for many people. It is the place where one can venture back and forth from when the call to action or contemplation is stronger than usual.
In many ways that middle place is a safe haven and the real balance.
Blessings,
Ed
When I first read that quote, I got a little bit miffed. I like the middle. I enjoy the shades of gray. I'm much more comfortable there. Radical stuff has always seemed to me to push the envelope further than it needs to go.
But there is some truth in what he says. I do believe and try to live out a faith-filled life that has both action and contemplation. Though neither is as deep as it could be. I'll take the action until there is something else calling for my attention. Unfortunately that sometimes doesn't take very long. I do not have long periods of contemplation, I don't tend to gravitate towards more than a day long retreat, though I could probably use one.
I do think that the middle isn't as mediocre as he says. It isn't red hot passionate stuff, but it works for many people. It is the place where one can venture back and forth from when the call to action or contemplation is stronger than usual.
In many ways that middle place is a safe haven and the real balance.
Blessings,
Ed
Sunday, September 26, 2010
Reflections for 9/25/10
"The apocalyptic style emerges to free prophets from taking themselves or their role in history too seriously. It says that after all is said and done (the work of the prophet), give history back to God and be at peace in the transcendent truth. don't try so hard that you become part of the bigger problem. The prophet might appear to be saying, 'Work as if it all depends on you.' The apocalyptic figure says, 'Pray and trust as if it all depends on God.' At the end of the day, cool it; forget it, and give history to the Holy One who is going to achieve the victory anyway."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 319)
Most of know the prophetic voices from the past, and even those in our own time. They are the ones who will point to what is wrong and try and call us to be agents of change. For me a real litmus test of the authenticity of today's prophets is, can they cool it. If no one knew their name, if no one praised them, if it wasn't about their celebrity then I might be inclined to take them seriously.
Apocalytic voices are also prophetic. Or at least they share in the pointing out of the problem. They may also advocate for action, and may be involved in working for the change, but they ultimately know when to let it go and let God finish the work. Things that succeed are from God the Bible tells us. Things which we believe to be important are not necessarily coming from that place.
If I can't ever let things go. If I'm 24/7 passionate, then I risk becoming the reason for doing something. I am not saying that I shouldn't advocate for justice, peace, the needs of the poor etc. I'll continue to do that. I'll even put some sweat equity into it. But I'll also realize that it is not about me. It is about trusting that God will in fact move and act in greater ways than I.
Blessings,
Ed
Most of know the prophetic voices from the past, and even those in our own time. They are the ones who will point to what is wrong and try and call us to be agents of change. For me a real litmus test of the authenticity of today's prophets is, can they cool it. If no one knew their name, if no one praised them, if it wasn't about their celebrity then I might be inclined to take them seriously.
Apocalytic voices are also prophetic. Or at least they share in the pointing out of the problem. They may also advocate for action, and may be involved in working for the change, but they ultimately know when to let it go and let God finish the work. Things that succeed are from God the Bible tells us. Things which we believe to be important are not necessarily coming from that place.
If I can't ever let things go. If I'm 24/7 passionate, then I risk becoming the reason for doing something. I am not saying that I shouldn't advocate for justice, peace, the needs of the poor etc. I'll continue to do that. I'll even put some sweat equity into it. But I'll also realize that it is not about me. It is about trusting that God will in fact move and act in greater ways than I.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, September 24, 2010
Reflections for 9/24/10
"We are called to know God personally, but we are essentially social beings. We only come to know who we are in the context of other people, in the context of living in a family, in a community."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.317)
Who am I? The greatest question that every person wrestles with. Sometimes I feel like I know more about my roles than I do about who I actually am. I know a part of who I am is as an alumni of Grinnell College and the Episcopal Divinity School. But even that role has had different knowledge of me. It is interesting to hear what people who knew me in those contexts believe I am or what their experiences of me were. Did they have a sense of the real me? I don't know.
I know my role as husband and father. Again aspects of the real me make up how I live into those roles, but I believe I'm more than that.
I'm a priest in the Episcopal Church and the Rector of Holy Trinity Wenonah. I know my role in those contexts, and I know again how aspects of me are revealed in those contexts.
The reality is that we are more complex than the roles we have outside of ourselves. And with all those "hats" it is easy to lose sight of what makes us unique. We may strive for a consistency of personhood, but often fall short of that, adapting and bringing out different personas as needed.
Maybe that's why human beings are made in the image of God. God as revealed in scripture is fairly complex and hardly consistent. Except in this one way, God always seeks relationship with us.
Blessings,
Ed
Who am I? The greatest question that every person wrestles with. Sometimes I feel like I know more about my roles than I do about who I actually am. I know a part of who I am is as an alumni of Grinnell College and the Episcopal Divinity School. But even that role has had different knowledge of me. It is interesting to hear what people who knew me in those contexts believe I am or what their experiences of me were. Did they have a sense of the real me? I don't know.
I know my role as husband and father. Again aspects of the real me make up how I live into those roles, but I believe I'm more than that.
I'm a priest in the Episcopal Church and the Rector of Holy Trinity Wenonah. I know my role in those contexts, and I know again how aspects of me are revealed in those contexts.
The reality is that we are more complex than the roles we have outside of ourselves. And with all those "hats" it is easy to lose sight of what makes us unique. We may strive for a consistency of personhood, but often fall short of that, adapting and bringing out different personas as needed.
Maybe that's why human beings are made in the image of God. God as revealed in scripture is fairly complex and hardly consistent. Except in this one way, God always seeks relationship with us.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Reflections for 9/23/10
"Somehow it seems salvation should show in our faces, our lives; in our fire, conviction and zeal."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace p. 317)
One of the funniest photos I've ever seen, okay that's a bit of an overstatement, but a funny picture that I've seen was on the web site Pharisaios Journal. It is basically a spoof site, with a lot of inside English High Church humor. But the picture's caption read "the Lord is our joy and life." The picture was of these two dour looking folks who looked like they just ate a lemon.
People of faith do have the capability to be happy, not any more than most, but we certainly proclaim it. And yet we sometimes present such a serious face that rather than a "fullness of joy," it looks more like an absence of joy. It is also true that there is sometimes a mask of smile worn by people of faith, that once you start listening to what they are saying, you wonder how that translates into a smile.
I try to live my life as one for whom salvation has been freely given and I am invited to share it with others. I'd like to believe that the smile that is on my face is one because I am glad to be alive. That I truly feel blessed in so many ways.
I like having energy in my worship, and do so within the context of a somewhat structured liturgy. Yes it is possible to be enthusiastic in an Episcopal Church and still look like an Episcopal Church.
Perhaps if we Christians spent more time talking about what brings us joy in our lives rather than constantly whining about what's wrong, especially with others, we might not feel as insignificant as we do.
Blessings,
Ed
One of the funniest photos I've ever seen, okay that's a bit of an overstatement, but a funny picture that I've seen was on the web site Pharisaios Journal. It is basically a spoof site, with a lot of inside English High Church humor. But the picture's caption read "the Lord is our joy and life." The picture was of these two dour looking folks who looked like they just ate a lemon.
People of faith do have the capability to be happy, not any more than most, but we certainly proclaim it. And yet we sometimes present such a serious face that rather than a "fullness of joy," it looks more like an absence of joy. It is also true that there is sometimes a mask of smile worn by people of faith, that once you start listening to what they are saying, you wonder how that translates into a smile.
I try to live my life as one for whom salvation has been freely given and I am invited to share it with others. I'd like to believe that the smile that is on my face is one because I am glad to be alive. That I truly feel blessed in so many ways.
I like having energy in my worship, and do so within the context of a somewhat structured liturgy. Yes it is possible to be enthusiastic in an Episcopal Church and still look like an Episcopal Church.
Perhaps if we Christians spent more time talking about what brings us joy in our lives rather than constantly whining about what's wrong, especially with others, we might not feel as insignificant as we do.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Reflections for 9/22/10
"Feminism is not new or liberal or dangerous; it's very old, quite conservative, and as traditional as Mary and the eight Beatitudes."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.316)
One time while channel surfing I ran across Mother Angelica. If you are not familiar with her, she is an old school Roman Catholic Nun, who has a show on EWTN, I believe.
The time that she caught my attention she was blasting away at feminists. As I sat and listened to her, the only thing I could think is that the very people she seemed to loath, are the ones that make it possible for her to even be speaking publicly with any level of authority.
It is funny to me how the notion of women having power is somehow threatening. To a certain extent I understand the fear from my fellow males, hey we might get replaced. They may be able to do some of things we do. I would see it more as challenge to strive to do better, to live more fully into my gifts, rather than coast because of my gender.
But I honestly don't get the anger towards feminism that comes from women. Unless it comes down to not actually being happy that someone has gotten farther than them, and or the expectations might be higher now.
The Bible does say that in Christ there is no male or female, yet Christians have and continue to put structures in place that will value one over the other. It really makes no sense to me. I'm looking for people interested in doing ministry, in partnering with me to improve our world, their gender plays no role for me in their ability to do.
Blessings,
Ed
One time while channel surfing I ran across Mother Angelica. If you are not familiar with her, she is an old school Roman Catholic Nun, who has a show on EWTN, I believe.
The time that she caught my attention she was blasting away at feminists. As I sat and listened to her, the only thing I could think is that the very people she seemed to loath, are the ones that make it possible for her to even be speaking publicly with any level of authority.
It is funny to me how the notion of women having power is somehow threatening. To a certain extent I understand the fear from my fellow males, hey we might get replaced. They may be able to do some of things we do. I would see it more as challenge to strive to do better, to live more fully into my gifts, rather than coast because of my gender.
But I honestly don't get the anger towards feminism that comes from women. Unless it comes down to not actually being happy that someone has gotten farther than them, and or the expectations might be higher now.
The Bible does say that in Christ there is no male or female, yet Christians have and continue to put structures in place that will value one over the other. It really makes no sense to me. I'm looking for people interested in doing ministry, in partnering with me to improve our world, their gender plays no role for me in their ability to do.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Reflections 9/21/10
"Our suffering is psychological, relational and addictive: the suffering of people who are comfortable on the outside but oppressed and empty within. It is a crisis of meaninglessness and the false self, which had tried to find meaning in possessions, prestige and power. It doesn't work. so we turn to ingesting and buying to fill our empty souls."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 315)
There have been several op-Ed pieces in the New York Times lately about the anger of the rich and the anger of the middle class here in America. Everybody so angry over money. Money that they don't have and or money they want to keep.
I have a colleague who shared a link where you can type in your income and see what percentage of wealthy you are in the whole world, not just the USA. Apparently I'm the 54,864,272 wealthiest person in the whole world. Puts me in the top 1%. Of course in my context, US citizen I don't feel all that wealthy.
There's a part of me that understands what that survey was trying to tell me, that compared to most of the world's population I'm pretty well off. Actually when I look at satisfaction with life, I consider myself to be quite wealthy. I don't have a lot of extra income, and I don't have a lot of stuff.
But I do understand that crisis of meaninglessness, because it does rear its ugly head from time to time for me. I know when I'm feeling that way because I feed my addiction. I'll eat when I'm not hungry, just to satiate the boredom or the stress. It is not healthy. And I know its reality because when I'm motivated and enjoying myself I eat at meals and in reasonable quantities.
I'd like to believe that my soul is not empty, but it certainly isn't filled to the rim yet. I know the way to get to meaningfulness and when I'm on that path the destructive stuff loses its grip.
Blessings,
Ed
There have been several op-Ed pieces in the New York Times lately about the anger of the rich and the anger of the middle class here in America. Everybody so angry over money. Money that they don't have and or money they want to keep.
I have a colleague who shared a link where you can type in your income and see what percentage of wealthy you are in the whole world, not just the USA. Apparently I'm the 54,864,272 wealthiest person in the whole world. Puts me in the top 1%. Of course in my context, US citizen I don't feel all that wealthy.
There's a part of me that understands what that survey was trying to tell me, that compared to most of the world's population I'm pretty well off. Actually when I look at satisfaction with life, I consider myself to be quite wealthy. I don't have a lot of extra income, and I don't have a lot of stuff.
But I do understand that crisis of meaninglessness, because it does rear its ugly head from time to time for me. I know when I'm feeling that way because I feed my addiction. I'll eat when I'm not hungry, just to satiate the boredom or the stress. It is not healthy. And I know its reality because when I'm motivated and enjoying myself I eat at meals and in reasonable quantities.
I'd like to believe that my soul is not empty, but it certainly isn't filled to the rim yet. I know the way to get to meaningfulness and when I'm on that path the destructive stuff loses its grip.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, September 20, 2010
Reflections for 9/20/10
"While denominations haggle over metaphysics and belief systems, argue about who is saved and righteous with God, defend their sacramental and scriptural turf, Bill Wilson and his followers have moved forward with a humble realism that is both rare and convincing. They begin at an honest place and end at the same without arguing, proving, defending or spouting religious jargon. They come together not as a gathering of the saved but wearing their 'scarlet letter' for all to see. They don't have to be talked into salvation theory or a need for God out there."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 314)
While I have never personally gone to a 12 step program, I grew up in a church that opened its doors to a large number and variety of 12 step programs. My own church opens its doors to an AA group. And I have seen people's lives change for the better as a result of having that community to work through and be supported by.
I do think churches and would do well to take a look at how these folks interact. While giving space for them to meet is certainly the right thing to do, they may have something to offer us as well.
I don't have a lot of time or patience for the theological and scriptural arguments that infect the Body of Christ. And while most Christians will tell you they are sinners also, they do tend to want to move away from that statement quickly and get to judging others. That's much easier than confronting one's own problems.
I may never actually go to a 12 step meeting, though I know that they exist for my addiction, overeating. The principles that are it's basis, those steps, are probably a great model of a spirituality that has real possibilities to strengthen my own faith.
Blessings,
Ed
While I have never personally gone to a 12 step program, I grew up in a church that opened its doors to a large number and variety of 12 step programs. My own church opens its doors to an AA group. And I have seen people's lives change for the better as a result of having that community to work through and be supported by.
I do think churches and would do well to take a look at how these folks interact. While giving space for them to meet is certainly the right thing to do, they may have something to offer us as well.
I don't have a lot of time or patience for the theological and scriptural arguments that infect the Body of Christ. And while most Christians will tell you they are sinners also, they do tend to want to move away from that statement quickly and get to judging others. That's much easier than confronting one's own problems.
I may never actually go to a 12 step meeting, though I know that they exist for my addiction, overeating. The principles that are it's basis, those steps, are probably a great model of a spirituality that has real possibilities to strengthen my own faith.
Blessings,
Ed
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Reflections for 9/19/10
"What parents go throuh to raise children is above and beyond the call of duty. Yet they rise to the occasion more often than not. I can see why God ordered the continuation of the human race through parenting: God had to find a way for all of us to get out of ourselves. We need reality checks that are simply there, like a brick wall, that demand a response, with no room for choice or 'discernment.' That's the best way to become holy. It's not what you do, it's what you allwo to be done to you."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 313)
Of my several vocations, the one as parent is the one I find the most challenging, tiring and rewarding. All of us come from this vocation. Some people are blessed with decent parents, not perfect, because that would not be real. Some regretably had lousy parents and either followed the pattern or broke free and became decent people in spite of.
I'm not sure what the true litmus test of being a decent parent actually is. There certainly exist a minimum expectation, provide for basic necessities, teach some level of making good choices. But we are dealing with free willed creatures here. And sometimes it is amazing how much a parent actually puts up with. Granted I believe most of us could probably be a little firmer.
Sometimes we forget that we are parents, not their best buddies. Our children need to be around others to develop social skills. If all they know is us, no matter how devoted loving etc. we might be, we are not doing them or ourselves any favors.
Yes most of the last 15 years have been dictated by the needs and activities of my two boys. In a few years, they'll be on their way into the real world. Hopefully I will have got them to a place where they can thrive. And at the same time appreciate my efforts as imperfect as they may be sometimes.
Blessings,
Ed
Of my several vocations, the one as parent is the one I find the most challenging, tiring and rewarding. All of us come from this vocation. Some people are blessed with decent parents, not perfect, because that would not be real. Some regretably had lousy parents and either followed the pattern or broke free and became decent people in spite of.
I'm not sure what the true litmus test of being a decent parent actually is. There certainly exist a minimum expectation, provide for basic necessities, teach some level of making good choices. But we are dealing with free willed creatures here. And sometimes it is amazing how much a parent actually puts up with. Granted I believe most of us could probably be a little firmer.
Sometimes we forget that we are parents, not their best buddies. Our children need to be around others to develop social skills. If all they know is us, no matter how devoted loving etc. we might be, we are not doing them or ourselves any favors.
Yes most of the last 15 years have been dictated by the needs and activities of my two boys. In a few years, they'll be on their way into the real world. Hopefully I will have got them to a place where they can thrive. And at the same time appreciate my efforts as imperfect as they may be sometimes.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, September 18, 2010
Reflections for 9/18/10
"We need signs of salvation. We who are well off have been given signs of the cross among us like the poor and the handicapped. We have to enter their world on their terms to love them. And the beautiful thing we discover is that we become free. We come at last to know who we are by looking in their eyes."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.311)
"Sign, sign, everywhere a sign Blockin' out the scenery, breakin' my mind
Do this, don't do that, can't you read the sign?" And so goes the chorus in a song from 1971 by the 5 Man Electric Band. The song of course points to the signs that keep us out, that tell us what not to do, that remind us of all that is wrong in the world.
Some folks read those signs as an indication of the apocalyptic return of Christ. I'd see them more of sign of our brokenness. I prefer to seek out signs of hope, or as Fr. Rohr said salvation. Glimpses of what can happen when God's grace is allowed to have free reign. They are hard to see. Our 24/7 news cycle does not want those shown. Political pundits hate them, bad for ratings.
Yet I have seen them, when I've encountered and spent time with folk who on the surface seem to have less than me, and yet are incredibly content. Who when they gaze back probably wonder, what's wrong with him? When I spend real time not just pity time with them, interacting with them on their terms, my perspective definitely changes. I don't leave saying there go I but by the grace of God, but instead believing I've been graced to spend time with that person.
There is an interesting verse in the song that I quoted at the beginning. It sums up for me quite well the sign of salvation that I often feel regularly, "I said, "Thank you, Lord, for thinkin' 'bout me. I'm alive and doin' fine.
Wooo!"
Blessings,
Ed
"Sign, sign, everywhere a sign Blockin' out the scenery, breakin' my mind
Do this, don't do that, can't you read the sign?" And so goes the chorus in a song from 1971 by the 5 Man Electric Band. The song of course points to the signs that keep us out, that tell us what not to do, that remind us of all that is wrong in the world.
Some folks read those signs as an indication of the apocalyptic return of Christ. I'd see them more of sign of our brokenness. I prefer to seek out signs of hope, or as Fr. Rohr said salvation. Glimpses of what can happen when God's grace is allowed to have free reign. They are hard to see. Our 24/7 news cycle does not want those shown. Political pundits hate them, bad for ratings.
Yet I have seen them, when I've encountered and spent time with folk who on the surface seem to have less than me, and yet are incredibly content. Who when they gaze back probably wonder, what's wrong with him? When I spend real time not just pity time with them, interacting with them on their terms, my perspective definitely changes. I don't leave saying there go I but by the grace of God, but instead believing I've been graced to spend time with that person.
There is an interesting verse in the song that I quoted at the beginning. It sums up for me quite well the sign of salvation that I often feel regularly, "I said, "Thank you, Lord, for thinkin' 'bout me. I'm alive and doin' fine.
Wooo!"
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, September 17, 2010
Reflections for 9/17/10
"Brothers and sisters, if you're seeking to lead a good life, sooner or later every one of you is going to be led to that point. Every one of us is led, sooner or later, to the ashpit with Job 'picking at our own sores.'(Job 2:8) At that time you will hear many voices (symbolized by the various advice-giving friends of Job). Pray that you know which friends to listen to and which are being 'reasonable' at the price of faith."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.311)
I've been blessed to not have reached that Jobian point of sitting in the ashpit. I've had some seriously rough patches, that one could argue might have been close, to where I might have been ready to curse God, doubt the existence of God etc. However, I found that faith and especially the friend that are gifts from God in my life are what got me through that period.
It is true that when we have something go terribly wrong, we will hear all kinds of voices, and sometimes it will even feel as if we have no one, even with all those voices.
For me the most trusted voices are the ones that are actually doing less talking and more listening. Who are not scared of the steam coming out of my ears. Those who won't immediately try to fix me, just so they can be comfortable around me again.
There's all kinds of "helpful advice" that comes from all directions. The truly sound advice and the one that has your best interests at heart, is the one that will be clear, will speak to your heart and you'll know it is the right one when you hear it.
Blessings,
Ed
I've been blessed to not have reached that Jobian point of sitting in the ashpit. I've had some seriously rough patches, that one could argue might have been close, to where I might have been ready to curse God, doubt the existence of God etc. However, I found that faith and especially the friend that are gifts from God in my life are what got me through that period.
It is true that when we have something go terribly wrong, we will hear all kinds of voices, and sometimes it will even feel as if we have no one, even with all those voices.
For me the most trusted voices are the ones that are actually doing less talking and more listening. Who are not scared of the steam coming out of my ears. Those who won't immediately try to fix me, just so they can be comfortable around me again.
There's all kinds of "helpful advice" that comes from all directions. The truly sound advice and the one that has your best interests at heart, is the one that will be clear, will speak to your heart and you'll know it is the right one when you hear it.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Reflections for 9/16/10
"The powers of the world, who are always fighting deadlines, management goals and profit scales, do not expect to be motivated from within. They must produce, fix and accomplish, and that is one helpful part of life."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.310)
What would life be like without goals? If we had nothing to strive for? Certainly in the economic sphere production, profit and goals are incredibly important. The system would fail in the short term without those motivators. The carrot-stick approach works to a point.
I think when we try to be human the carrot-stick approach isn't always the most helpful. When we do things because we want to, even more is accomplished and creativity really takes off. I particularly discovered this summer that when I had things to do that weren't deadline driven, or had to be done, they just were activities that I loved to do for the sake of doing them, I had more time and energy to do those more mundane tasks.
One of the hardest parts of maintaining our balance is the loss of an inner authority, that authority that comes from being a child of God. That authority which stirs our compassionate side, that authority that helps us recognize what brings joy and fulfillment into our lives.
Yes we need to do those mundane things in order to pay the bills, but when that is all we do, when there is nothing to look forward to, when the only option at the end of the week is physical collapse, we've lost sight of our true calling as those redeemed and loved by God.
Blessings,
Ed
What would life be like without goals? If we had nothing to strive for? Certainly in the economic sphere production, profit and goals are incredibly important. The system would fail in the short term without those motivators. The carrot-stick approach works to a point.
I think when we try to be human the carrot-stick approach isn't always the most helpful. When we do things because we want to, even more is accomplished and creativity really takes off. I particularly discovered this summer that when I had things to do that weren't deadline driven, or had to be done, they just were activities that I loved to do for the sake of doing them, I had more time and energy to do those more mundane tasks.
One of the hardest parts of maintaining our balance is the loss of an inner authority, that authority that comes from being a child of God. That authority which stirs our compassionate side, that authority that helps us recognize what brings joy and fulfillment into our lives.
Yes we need to do those mundane things in order to pay the bills, but when that is all we do, when there is nothing to look forward to, when the only option at the end of the week is physical collapse, we've lost sight of our true calling as those redeemed and loved by God.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Reflections for 9/15/10
"Trust is not making a virtuous decision; it's not a leap of faith without any evidence. It's recognizing that every human situation is a mixture of both life and death, that the big truths are usually are complicated truths. We are a mixture of darkness and light, life and death. Every action we perform has some quality of life to it, yet some quality of fear and self-protection. When we can accpet that there is no perfect anything, we can find peace in this world."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 308)
When I have had a decent day, I can sometimes fall into hyperbole and say it was perfect. The weather was perfect, is an example of this. I'm not sure what perfect weather is, probably depends on the day of the week. During the summer, every weekend is supposed to be sunny, no humidity and in the upper 80's. It's near armageddon if there are any variations, which of course there usually are.
There are no perfect relationships. There are certainly good ones. Perhaps that's why the marriage vows, say "for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health." For a relationship to be strong it has to be able to live with the good and the not so good.
When we spend all our energy trying to make everything perfect, we are usually to drained to actually enjoy whatever it is we've attempted to create.
I'm still learning to live with the paradoxes of life. To stay comfortable in the ambiguities that most situations present. Life seems to me to have all sorts of shades and variations to it. Probably makes life more interesting.
Maybe that's why the Genesis creation story needed us to get kicked out of Eden. We'd be truly boring if we never had any adversity in our lives. I wouldn't want 24/7 adversity either, that would be hell, but occassional reminders that everything doesn't always work out how I would like it to, is quite healthy.
Blessings,
Ed
When I have had a decent day, I can sometimes fall into hyperbole and say it was perfect. The weather was perfect, is an example of this. I'm not sure what perfect weather is, probably depends on the day of the week. During the summer, every weekend is supposed to be sunny, no humidity and in the upper 80's. It's near armageddon if there are any variations, which of course there usually are.
There are no perfect relationships. There are certainly good ones. Perhaps that's why the marriage vows, say "for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health." For a relationship to be strong it has to be able to live with the good and the not so good.
When we spend all our energy trying to make everything perfect, we are usually to drained to actually enjoy whatever it is we've attempted to create.
I'm still learning to live with the paradoxes of life. To stay comfortable in the ambiguities that most situations present. Life seems to me to have all sorts of shades and variations to it. Probably makes life more interesting.
Maybe that's why the Genesis creation story needed us to get kicked out of Eden. We'd be truly boring if we never had any adversity in our lives. I wouldn't want 24/7 adversity either, that would be hell, but occassional reminders that everything doesn't always work out how I would like it to, is quite healthy.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Reflections for 9/14/10
"There is no big ideology in that. There is no leftist or rightist politics. I'ts finally just compassion and solidarity with friends and victims, and a willingness to pay the price for that friendship. Maybe we just need to build relationships byeond racial and class lines. Justice would soon follow."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 308)
I consider myself a fairly open person. I've tried to the best of my ability to let go of the biases and prejudices that almost feel genetic from being a white, straight, middle class, male. As my boundaries have expanded as to who I choose to befriend or at least stand in solidarity with, I have found my life enriched and also that I'm not as quick to laugh at something that isn't really funny. I now know enough people and love and respect them that when a comment that deliberately belittles someone who is not like me, I put a face to it and it isn't nearly as clever.
I also find that by spending time with those who are not like me, I get clearer as to who I am. And a deeper more mature person arises from that contrast. I realize that I am not superior to these other folks, nor am I inferior. I also know that there are a lot of people out there for whom I'd stand up for.
Blessings,
Ed
I consider myself a fairly open person. I've tried to the best of my ability to let go of the biases and prejudices that almost feel genetic from being a white, straight, middle class, male. As my boundaries have expanded as to who I choose to befriend or at least stand in solidarity with, I have found my life enriched and also that I'm not as quick to laugh at something that isn't really funny. I now know enough people and love and respect them that when a comment that deliberately belittles someone who is not like me, I put a face to it and it isn't nearly as clever.
I also find that by spending time with those who are not like me, I get clearer as to who I am. And a deeper more mature person arises from that contrast. I realize that I am not superior to these other folks, nor am I inferior. I also know that there are a lot of people out there for whom I'd stand up for.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, September 13, 2010
Reflections for 9/13/10
"Western men need liberation from the whole set of expectations taht culture puts upon us and we put upon ourselves: to be overachievers, competitive, focused and necessarily unfeeling, successful, hard-and-strong cannon fodder for wars. That pressure is instilled from boyhood, both by women and other men. Both mena and women profit from it; both men and women suffer from it."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.306)
The firs weekend of the pro-football season, except for the Monday night games, is over. Football here in America is the quinnessential example of the macho image. I do like football by the way. I do find it interesting how tied into the self-image of many is the success or failure of football teams, both pro and collegiate.
I also understand fully those expectations that Fr. Rohr talks about. I've had to fight the dualism of jock/non-jock world, I've got a little of both in me. What the biggest internal struggle is not to see them as polar opposites fighting for control of Ed, but instead two pieces of a much larger and complex puzzle.
I do like achievement. I take great pride in my college and seminary degrees, and in being an Eagle Scout. I doubt anyone would accuse me of being an overachiever. Sometimes I feel like an underachiever. The reality is probably closer to I achieve those things that I'm supposed to, nothing more, nothing less.
I'm not all that competitive. I enjoy participating and doing, unless there's cash involved I don't really care if I win or not. That attitude probably kept me from ever being a great individual athlete, but a pretty decent teammate.
None of those expectations that Fr. Rohr speaks of are actually bad. They become bad when in attempting to be them, we lose sight of the bigger mural of who we are. When in attempting to live into those expectations we start to take short cuts.
Blessings,
Ed
The firs weekend of the pro-football season, except for the Monday night games, is over. Football here in America is the quinnessential example of the macho image. I do like football by the way. I do find it interesting how tied into the self-image of many is the success or failure of football teams, both pro and collegiate.
I also understand fully those expectations that Fr. Rohr talks about. I've had to fight the dualism of jock/non-jock world, I've got a little of both in me. What the biggest internal struggle is not to see them as polar opposites fighting for control of Ed, but instead two pieces of a much larger and complex puzzle.
I do like achievement. I take great pride in my college and seminary degrees, and in being an Eagle Scout. I doubt anyone would accuse me of being an overachiever. Sometimes I feel like an underachiever. The reality is probably closer to I achieve those things that I'm supposed to, nothing more, nothing less.
I'm not all that competitive. I enjoy participating and doing, unless there's cash involved I don't really care if I win or not. That attitude probably kept me from ever being a great individual athlete, but a pretty decent teammate.
None of those expectations that Fr. Rohr speaks of are actually bad. They become bad when in attempting to be them, we lose sight of the bigger mural of who we are. When in attempting to live into those expectations we start to take short cuts.
Blessings,
Ed
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Reflections for 9/12/10
"What concerns me is when we say we're doing it all for Jesus, or purely for love, or for our spouse or children, or for the Church. That's usually a delusion. We're doing it in part for ourselves, and God, in great love and humility, says 'That's what I work with. That's all I work with!' It's the mustard seed with which God does great things. Thank God!"(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 306)
At one time or another we have all been motivated to do something. We also have had to make decisions to do or not do something. What's fascinating to me and especially when I self-reflect is the why.
I would hope that I do things for others because it is the right thing to do. But to be completely honest, I am sure there's a part of me that's waiting for that word of appreciation. That's done it to be noticed in some way. I also know that I can say I'm choosing to do something, or not do something for my kids or my wife, but deep down inside it has much to do with my fear of choosing. It is convenient to lay the blame elsewhere.
The Bible says that I can do all things through God. It doesn't say I'll do all things for God. It is incredible to think that God can actually do something with a person like me. With my insecurities, my hangups, my needing to be noticed. Yet God does.
I'm always impressed when I meet a talented person who can do some incredible things with very little material or resources. In those instances I get a glimpse of how God works. Doing incredible things with very little.
Blessings,
Ed
At one time or another we have all been motivated to do something. We also have had to make decisions to do or not do something. What's fascinating to me and especially when I self-reflect is the why.
I would hope that I do things for others because it is the right thing to do. But to be completely honest, I am sure there's a part of me that's waiting for that word of appreciation. That's done it to be noticed in some way. I also know that I can say I'm choosing to do something, or not do something for my kids or my wife, but deep down inside it has much to do with my fear of choosing. It is convenient to lay the blame elsewhere.
The Bible says that I can do all things through God. It doesn't say I'll do all things for God. It is incredible to think that God can actually do something with a person like me. With my insecurities, my hangups, my needing to be noticed. Yet God does.
I'm always impressed when I meet a talented person who can do some incredible things with very little material or resources. In those instances I get a glimpse of how God works. Doing incredible things with very little.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Reflections for 9/11/10
"The little ones are able to see what is happening. These are the ones who, when there is something more, will be ready. Because the numb do not notice. The sophisticated will not suffer. The comfortable need not complain. But Jesus teaches us, in effect, how to suffer graciously. He actually increases our capacity for pain. this is the central message of the eight Beatitudes."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p.304-305)
Today marks the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our country. Most people can recall exactly where they were when they heard and or saw the news. As a nation we were filled with grief and pain, even if we did not know anyone who was killed in the attacks. For a brief moment there was a real awareness of the fragility of life. A real reaching out in concern and empathy for others.
Now the memory is used for political purposes. The day of the attacks I held a service of prayer, which was all I could think to do. 1 year later I created a more formalized prayer service that attempts to transform our grief away from anger and a need for revenge, and focus more on healing and being a witness for peace.
On that day ten years ago, I did see the presence of God holding our nation in its grief and confusion. No he didn't stop the attack. No it was not some divine punishment. It was a real sign that in our world, evil is still present, and humans are capable of being the most inhumane creatures on the planet.
On this 10th anniversary, my prayer will be that God will continue to help heal those who still mourn the loss of loved ones. That God will transform the hearts of those who believe that violence and intolerance are the only way to make a point. And that more folks will seek a greater understanding of those who are different than ourselves.
Blessings,
Ed
Today marks the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on our country. Most people can recall exactly where they were when they heard and or saw the news. As a nation we were filled with grief and pain, even if we did not know anyone who was killed in the attacks. For a brief moment there was a real awareness of the fragility of life. A real reaching out in concern and empathy for others.
Now the memory is used for political purposes. The day of the attacks I held a service of prayer, which was all I could think to do. 1 year later I created a more formalized prayer service that attempts to transform our grief away from anger and a need for revenge, and focus more on healing and being a witness for peace.
On that day ten years ago, I did see the presence of God holding our nation in its grief and confusion. No he didn't stop the attack. No it was not some divine punishment. It was a real sign that in our world, evil is still present, and humans are capable of being the most inhumane creatures on the planet.
On this 10th anniversary, my prayer will be that God will continue to help heal those who still mourn the loss of loved ones. That God will transform the hearts of those who believe that violence and intolerance are the only way to make a point. And that more folks will seek a greater understanding of those who are different than ourselves.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, September 10, 2010
Reflections for 9/10/10
"We're First World. We are a people who have been graced unbelievably on many levels. And there's no point in feeling guilty about that, but ours is the large middle-class Church, and the mentatlity that goes with that must be challenged by the gospel."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 303)
On an economic level I am pretty much middle class. I do have a higher level of education than many middle class people, but I do understand the mentality. That feeling of living with one's head just above the water. You know there are people in worse financial shape than you, but it is little consolation. In some ways fear becomes a primary emotion.
And that is the emotion that I find the gospel challenges me with. Do I have enough trust in God's mercy and love for me, that all will be well? Do I believe that I really do get my daily bread? Is there enough for me to be able to reach out to others? Gospel questions for sure, and ones that folks like me need to be confronted with and pray about regularly.
Blessings,
Ed
On an economic level I am pretty much middle class. I do have a higher level of education than many middle class people, but I do understand the mentality. That feeling of living with one's head just above the water. You know there are people in worse financial shape than you, but it is little consolation. In some ways fear becomes a primary emotion.
And that is the emotion that I find the gospel challenges me with. Do I have enough trust in God's mercy and love for me, that all will be well? Do I believe that I really do get my daily bread? Is there enough for me to be able to reach out to others? Gospel questions for sure, and ones that folks like me need to be confronted with and pray about regularly.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Reflections for 9/9/10
"We North Americans don't need to do that because we can store it for ourselves. So it keeps us more and more inside our houses where everything is mine, and it needs to be protected from you. OUr politics of scarcity and individual repsonsibility leads us to become more and more isolated, independent and competetive."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 302)
The above quote follows Fr. Rohr relaying how in Guatamalan villages, food is shared house to house. Because there's no tupperware, refrigerators etc. You have to eat the food pretty much right away.
When I go to my refrigerator, sometimes I find things that I forgot I put in there. We jokingly will call these fuzzy former foods, science experiments. But the reality is that we cooked to much, and because we've lost sight of being neighbors, we put it away, that will taste just as good tomorrow, but it usually just gets forgotten.
We do it with other things too. Holding on to stuff that is no longer of use to us, but still usable, you never know when you might need it. Instead of giving it away. Seeing who might have a need of it. How much more room could we have in our lives if we started just giving things away?
I love when a neighbor has something and just offers it to me. I like the connection that is made. I love when I can do the same for another person. What would our society be like if everything wasn't always what's best for me and who cares about the rest?
Blessings,
Ed
The above quote follows Fr. Rohr relaying how in Guatamalan villages, food is shared house to house. Because there's no tupperware, refrigerators etc. You have to eat the food pretty much right away.
When I go to my refrigerator, sometimes I find things that I forgot I put in there. We jokingly will call these fuzzy former foods, science experiments. But the reality is that we cooked to much, and because we've lost sight of being neighbors, we put it away, that will taste just as good tomorrow, but it usually just gets forgotten.
We do it with other things too. Holding on to stuff that is no longer of use to us, but still usable, you never know when you might need it. Instead of giving it away. Seeing who might have a need of it. How much more room could we have in our lives if we started just giving things away?
I love when a neighbor has something and just offers it to me. I like the connection that is made. I love when I can do the same for another person. What would our society be like if everything wasn't always what's best for me and who cares about the rest?
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
Reflections for 9/8/10
"Our checkbooks are probably our best theological statement about our real values. Jesus said, similarly, 'Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace p. 301)
One of the greatest stewardship challengers I ever heard was to pray my check register and my date book. Both are excellent indicators of our values and our priorities.
My checkbook register certainly would show that I place a high level of care for my family. I try to give them the basic necessities of life. It will also show that I'm not the best at saying "no." It will also show that in the past I have allowed materialistic instant gratification to dictate decisions. Much to my later regret.
My datebook would show that family and my vocation take up most of my time. And that they occupy a good part of my heart. Lately however there have been entries like gym. Which shows that I am actually intune with a need to love myself as well.
I hope that as I try to model better decision making both in financial and time management, I can instill decent decision making skills in my kids, so that their lives can truly reflect what is of actual value and importance to them.
Blessings,
Ed
One of the greatest stewardship challengers I ever heard was to pray my check register and my date book. Both are excellent indicators of our values and our priorities.
My checkbook register certainly would show that I place a high level of care for my family. I try to give them the basic necessities of life. It will also show that I'm not the best at saying "no." It will also show that in the past I have allowed materialistic instant gratification to dictate decisions. Much to my later regret.
My datebook would show that family and my vocation take up most of my time. And that they occupy a good part of my heart. Lately however there have been entries like gym. Which shows that I am actually intune with a need to love myself as well.
I hope that as I try to model better decision making both in financial and time management, I can instill decent decision making skills in my kids, so that their lives can truly reflect what is of actual value and importance to them.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflections for 9/7/10
"With so many time-saving devices, it doesn't make sense that people are so rushed. People seem to have so little time to do what they want. We've crated tremendous accessibility to one another through the telephone, the car, mass transit, telegrams, postal service."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 300)
I wonder when Fr. Rohr actually wrote this, considering what he cites as time saving devices that have made more accessible. I believe we may actually be in worse shape now. Add cell phones, internet chat, and now skype. How further along before teleportation is the norm?
While I certainly have most of the gadgets that are in style now, I do get what his point is. All of these things that are supposed to free up time, only create more time to be productive, they don't actually create quiet time, fun time, or anything other than more work. I have colleagues that give their cell phone number out to any and everyone. I grant that privilege to very few outside of my immediate family. And even then, I was for a long time prone to forgetting to take it with me. Perhaps deliberately on some subconscious level.
While we trumpet our connectivity, we really do live more isolated lives and our relationships are not all that deep. If I can chat with you on some social network cite, (which I am guilty of) then I don't actually have to have a face to face with you. And people wonder why they feel so alone.
I'm not saying we shouldn't have all these gadgets. They undoubtedly serve a purpose. But when they become a substitute for real friendships and connectivity, they become another device for dehumanization.
Blessings,
Ed
I wonder when Fr. Rohr actually wrote this, considering what he cites as time saving devices that have made more accessible. I believe we may actually be in worse shape now. Add cell phones, internet chat, and now skype. How further along before teleportation is the norm?
While I certainly have most of the gadgets that are in style now, I do get what his point is. All of these things that are supposed to free up time, only create more time to be productive, they don't actually create quiet time, fun time, or anything other than more work. I have colleagues that give their cell phone number out to any and everyone. I grant that privilege to very few outside of my immediate family. And even then, I was for a long time prone to forgetting to take it with me. Perhaps deliberately on some subconscious level.
While we trumpet our connectivity, we really do live more isolated lives and our relationships are not all that deep. If I can chat with you on some social network cite, (which I am guilty of) then I don't actually have to have a face to face with you. And people wonder why they feel so alone.
I'm not saying we shouldn't have all these gadgets. They undoubtedly serve a purpose. But when they become a substitute for real friendships and connectivity, they become another device for dehumanization.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, September 6, 2010
Reflections for 9/6/10
"What is the American experience? What is our experience of life, for good and for ill? It's the only experience you and I have. I would list the essentially good values of American culture as : personalism, freedom and self-determination, pluralism, up-front honesty, democratic self-criticism, a not-so-bad emphasis on productivity and practical effect, and a natural egalitarianism that disdains caste systems in any form. These are all potentially gospel and part of the cosmic mystery of the Body of Christ."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 299)
Today is one of those federal holidays, that has lost its original intent, but does try to remind us of what a great country we live in. Granted I don't know much about life outside of the USA. I've only been to two other countries, so I can only speak of what I know about the country I live in.
So what do I love about this country. First, I love the beauty and diversity of the landscape. I've been privileged to see 48 of the 50 states and each one has something unique to offer. I love that I can worship anytime, any place and anywhere I choose. The police will not be kicking down my door for being an Episcopalian. I love that I have a small say in who my elected leaders are. I'm not always pleased with who wins, but I know that in a certain amount of time, usually 4 years, I can try again. I actually love that we can freely express ourselves without worrying about thought police. That as long as I'm not threatening harm on another human being, or outright lying in a way that brings harm to them, I can run my mouth all day long.
Outside of the landscape, all of the things that I value are a result of sacrifice of others and the risk taken two hundred plus years ago to create a different type of country.
Sometimes as I listen to what is said, I wonder what others love about the good ole USA. I regrettably hear a lot of negativity. Perhaps what most of us need is a month or two living in a different country which does not value our freedoms. On the return we may find that while this may not be a perfect place, it really is great.
What would you say you love and value about our country? Can we get past patriotic platitudes that defy definition? Can we say here's something specific I really love and would miss if it were taken away?
Blessings,
Ed
Today is one of those federal holidays, that has lost its original intent, but does try to remind us of what a great country we live in. Granted I don't know much about life outside of the USA. I've only been to two other countries, so I can only speak of what I know about the country I live in.
So what do I love about this country. First, I love the beauty and diversity of the landscape. I've been privileged to see 48 of the 50 states and each one has something unique to offer. I love that I can worship anytime, any place and anywhere I choose. The police will not be kicking down my door for being an Episcopalian. I love that I have a small say in who my elected leaders are. I'm not always pleased with who wins, but I know that in a certain amount of time, usually 4 years, I can try again. I actually love that we can freely express ourselves without worrying about thought police. That as long as I'm not threatening harm on another human being, or outright lying in a way that brings harm to them, I can run my mouth all day long.
Outside of the landscape, all of the things that I value are a result of sacrifice of others and the risk taken two hundred plus years ago to create a different type of country.
Sometimes as I listen to what is said, I wonder what others love about the good ole USA. I regrettably hear a lot of negativity. Perhaps what most of us need is a month or two living in a different country which does not value our freedoms. On the return we may find that while this may not be a perfect place, it really is great.
What would you say you love and value about our country? Can we get past patriotic platitudes that defy definition? Can we say here's something specific I really love and would miss if it were taken away?
Blessings,
Ed
Reflections for 9/5/10
"Being lowered into the baths at Lourdes an act of humiliation and trust, an act of faith. Your mind wants to say, Why do this? What does this mean? What is this going to do? It seems everything in our life has to have an immediate visible effect, or it hasn't 'worked.'
That attitude is a terrible enemy of faith because faith is not in the realm of the practical; faith means entering into the world of mystery, where deeper energies are at work, where transformation takes place even though nothing appears to change."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p.298)
I have never been to Lourdes, perhaps one day but I certainly have heard of it. There are other "healing shrines" throughout the world some right here in the good old USA. A place where people go because nothing else has worked or makes sense. There are obviously people who literally get healed at these places, or no one would show up. I suspect that more people have a healing or strengthening that is different from what they originally went to the site for.
One of the biggest problems in our world is a lack of patience. Because we expect immediate gratification if it doesn't happen we move on to the next quick fix. Usually to be disappointed by that. This may be why faith is so hard to understand or often gets rejected outright. No instant gratification, no major zap for the most part. Occasional glimmers of something bigger, but unless you go deeper than your immediate senses, faith won't make much sense. That may also be why I have a very hard time explaining why I believe, I just know that it has worked for me all my life, sometimes in ways I didn't originally expect.
Blessings,
Ed
That attitude is a terrible enemy of faith because faith is not in the realm of the practical; faith means entering into the world of mystery, where deeper energies are at work, where transformation takes place even though nothing appears to change."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p.298)
I have never been to Lourdes, perhaps one day but I certainly have heard of it. There are other "healing shrines" throughout the world some right here in the good old USA. A place where people go because nothing else has worked or makes sense. There are obviously people who literally get healed at these places, or no one would show up. I suspect that more people have a healing or strengthening that is different from what they originally went to the site for.
One of the biggest problems in our world is a lack of patience. Because we expect immediate gratification if it doesn't happen we move on to the next quick fix. Usually to be disappointed by that. This may be why faith is so hard to understand or often gets rejected outright. No instant gratification, no major zap for the most part. Occasional glimmers of something bigger, but unless you go deeper than your immediate senses, faith won't make much sense. That may also be why I have a very hard time explaining why I believe, I just know that it has worked for me all my life, sometimes in ways I didn't originally expect.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, September 4, 2010
Reflections for 9/4/10
"Simply put, the third temptation is the need to be in control, to be aligned with power and money. The three temptations that Jesus faces, in a certain sense, all become one: the addictive system, the great lie, the untouchable mythology, 'the sin of the world'(John 1:29)that must be unmasked and dethroned. And I know nothing strong enough to break the mythology-not ideology, not liberalism, not conservatism-except the upside down gospel of Jesus. You must refound your life on a new foundation, the foundation of you experienced union with God."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p. 297)
Most of us at some point in our lives have to have a restart, or a refounding. I know that when I try hard to have total control over things, some unpleasant experience usually follows. The more I try to impress people with power, or worry about money, the less happy I actually am.
When I only try to control those parts of my life that I have been given authority over, I get more done, and I actually enjoy it. When I live life fully within my means, I enjoy it a lot more.
When I base my self worth solely on my faith in my God-image bearing, and my experience of the presence of God in my life, the blessings I have and the way I have never totally bottomed out, even when I could see the bottom coming, are where I've found the best foundation on which to build my life.
Blessings,
Ed
Most of us at some point in our lives have to have a restart, or a refounding. I know that when I try hard to have total control over things, some unpleasant experience usually follows. The more I try to impress people with power, or worry about money, the less happy I actually am.
When I only try to control those parts of my life that I have been given authority over, I get more done, and I actually enjoy it. When I live life fully within my means, I enjoy it a lot more.
When I base my self worth solely on my faith in my God-image bearing, and my experience of the presence of God in my life, the blessings I have and the way I have never totally bottomed out, even when I could see the bottom coming, are where I've found the best foundation on which to build my life.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, September 3, 2010
Reflections for 9/3/10
"The second temptation of Jesus: Satan takes him up to the pinnacle of the Temple, symbolizing the religious world, and tells him to play righteousness games with God. 'Throw yourself off and he'll catch you.'(Matthew 4:6) It's the only time when the devil quotes Scripture. The second temptation is the need to be right and to think of the self as saved, superior, the moral elite standing on God and religion , and quoting arguable Scriptures for your own purpose.
More evil has come into the world by people of righteous ignorance than by people who've intentionally sinned. Being convinced that one has the whole truth and has God wrapped up in my denomination, my dogmas and my right response (I am baptized, I made a personal decision for Jesus, I go to Church).
It's not wrong to be 'right.' Once in a while if something works out, that's sure nice. The spiritual problem is the need to be right. we are called to do the truth and then let go of the consequences. One stops asking the question of spiritual success, which is the egocentrism of the rich young man: 'What must I do to inherit eternal life?'(Mark 10:17). Jesus refused to answer him because it is the wrong question. It is again 'the devil' quoting Scripture and not really wanting an answer, only affirmation."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.294-295)
I've noticed recently in our country that there's a lot of verbiage flying around. Sometimes its random quotes from Scripture, sometimes a pious platitude, and even some nationalist jingo, all for the appearance of being right. Most of it hollow and none of it ready for a follow up question.
It often happens that the only way we can ever feel right is if we can find someone to paint as wrong. And then attack, attack attack. I try hard to get below the surface of this nonsense, but the water was pretty dense and hard to break through.
As a person for whom a good part of my vocation involves words, I know there power. I also know that some words are loaded and can be misapplied with disastrous results. A well thought out and articulated sentence is a good thing. Shooting off at the mouth to justify my existence, not so much.
Blessings,
Ed
More evil has come into the world by people of righteous ignorance than by people who've intentionally sinned. Being convinced that one has the whole truth and has God wrapped up in my denomination, my dogmas and my right response (I am baptized, I made a personal decision for Jesus, I go to Church).
It's not wrong to be 'right.' Once in a while if something works out, that's sure nice. The spiritual problem is the need to be right. we are called to do the truth and then let go of the consequences. One stops asking the question of spiritual success, which is the egocentrism of the rich young man: 'What must I do to inherit eternal life?'(Mark 10:17). Jesus refused to answer him because it is the wrong question. It is again 'the devil' quoting Scripture and not really wanting an answer, only affirmation."(R.Rohr "Radical Grace" p.294-295)
I've noticed recently in our country that there's a lot of verbiage flying around. Sometimes its random quotes from Scripture, sometimes a pious platitude, and even some nationalist jingo, all for the appearance of being right. Most of it hollow and none of it ready for a follow up question.
It often happens that the only way we can ever feel right is if we can find someone to paint as wrong. And then attack, attack attack. I try hard to get below the surface of this nonsense, but the water was pretty dense and hard to break through.
As a person for whom a good part of my vocation involves words, I know there power. I also know that some words are loaded and can be misapplied with disastrous results. A well thought out and articulated sentence is a good thing. Shooting off at the mouth to justify my existence, not so much.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Reflections for 9/2/10
"I believe that all would-be ministers must face the same three temptations as Jesus before they really can minister. The first temptation of Christ, to turn stones into bread (Matthew 4:3), is the need to be effective, successful, relevant, to make things happen. You've done something and people say, 'Wow!' Good job! You did it right. You're OK.' When the crowds approve, it's hard not to believe that we have done a good thing, and probably God's will.
Usually when you buy into that too quickly, you're feeding the false self and the system, which tells you what it immediately wants and seldom knows what it really needs. You can be a very popular minister operating at that level."
I certainly know that temptation well. As a clergy person, we often get told how great we are. Of course I also know clergy who get told how awful etc they are. Most of us, even those that aren't clergy want to be effective, successful, relevant etc. no matter what are vocations. The more applause we get, the more positive and affirming any review of our work is the better.
I suppose the warning is to not always buy everything that's being said. One of my problems is often that I don't believe anything that's said about me. I've had plenty of people tell me that too.
I try to take the time to process any feedback and not go with my first reaction to it. Positive feedback, to much elation, negative to much depression. Somewhere in between those two extremes lies the reality of how we're doing. We're called to do our best, it might not always be what everybody wants.
Blessings,
Ed
Usually when you buy into that too quickly, you're feeding the false self and the system, which tells you what it immediately wants and seldom knows what it really needs. You can be a very popular minister operating at that level."
I certainly know that temptation well. As a clergy person, we often get told how great we are. Of course I also know clergy who get told how awful etc they are. Most of us, even those that aren't clergy want to be effective, successful, relevant etc. no matter what are vocations. The more applause we get, the more positive and affirming any review of our work is the better.
I suppose the warning is to not always buy everything that's being said. One of my problems is often that I don't believe anything that's said about me. I've had plenty of people tell me that too.
I try to take the time to process any feedback and not go with my first reaction to it. Positive feedback, to much elation, negative to much depression. Somewhere in between those two extremes lies the reality of how we're doing. We're called to do our best, it might not always be what everybody wants.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Reflections for 9/1/10
"What do you think happens when God forgives your sin? Is it God changing suddenly, reassessing you? Is it God deciding to waive some eternal and required punishment? No! Nothing happens in God. God is a perfect given-ness, toatlly and always given, literally fore-given: ahead of time, before our act of faith."(R. Rohr "Radical Grace" p.294)
Most of us understand how forgiveness works when it comes to human relationships. Someone says they're sorry and the other person chooses to forgive or not. Sometimes forgiveness comes before its even asked for. Sometimes its even given and you didn't know you did anything to be forgiven for.
But with God the feeling is different, probably because it isn't a direct transaction. It just happens. Does it mean that we shouldn't ask for forgiveness, no confession necessary? I suppose from God's perspective probably not. But the need to confess, seek absolution etc, is more for me. Do I have enough self awareness to know when I went too far? Am I humble enough to be able to admit when I am in the wrong?
I'm glad I don't believe in God keeping track of everything I've done wrong just waiting to zap me with it. Yet I don't feel compelled to take that given forgiveness for granted. I don't view it as a divine get out of jail free card.
Blessings,
Ed
Most of us understand how forgiveness works when it comes to human relationships. Someone says they're sorry and the other person chooses to forgive or not. Sometimes forgiveness comes before its even asked for. Sometimes its even given and you didn't know you did anything to be forgiven for.
But with God the feeling is different, probably because it isn't a direct transaction. It just happens. Does it mean that we shouldn't ask for forgiveness, no confession necessary? I suppose from God's perspective probably not. But the need to confess, seek absolution etc, is more for me. Do I have enough self awareness to know when I went too far? Am I humble enough to be able to admit when I am in the wrong?
I'm glad I don't believe in God keeping track of everything I've done wrong just waiting to zap me with it. Yet I don't feel compelled to take that given forgiveness for granted. I don't view it as a divine get out of jail free card.
Blessings,
Ed
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