"However, so that we do not give offense to them, go to the sea and cast a hook; take the first fish that comes up; and when you open its mouth, you will find a coin; take that and give it to them for you and me."(Matthew 17:27)
Yesterday I went to a Phillies' game. And like most baseball games it started with the National Anthem and I stood removed my hat etc. During the 7th inning stretch they for some reason played God Bless America. This has been going on since the 9/11 attacks and frankly I don't care for it. During the 7th inning stretch I want to sing Take me out to the ballgame. But I stood anyway, because I'm not interested in making a spectacle of myself. I won't sing along however.
I think there are many things we do in life so as not to give offense to others. I think there are times when we have to take stands that might be offensive to some. But I'd like to use those moments for something really important.
I sense that was what Jesus meant with this. The temple tax not something he was interested in getting into an argument about. If people were going to be mad at him, it was going to be for something that was important to him.
How do you know when the something is worth standing up for and risking offending some people? When is it better just to play along?
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, July 20, 2015
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Reflection for July 18, 2015
" He said to them, 'But who do you say that I am?'” (Matthew 16:15)
I am a member of the Committee on the Priesthood here in the Diocese of New Jersey. The purpose of this group is to help people who feel called to the priesthood, to discern whether there is a call or not. One of my favorite questions to asks these folks is "who do you say Jesus is?" I ask it so much that it has become known as the Zelley question.
I don't think it is an unfair question, though I will say that it often takes people by surprise. The fear of course is that I have an answer and if I don't like your answer or if it isn't my answer I might vote no. The reality is that I just want an answer. I'd prefer one that avoids pious platitudes and other jargon. I'd like to hear how that answer has been experienced or lived out.
I suppose it would be only fair for me to give my answer. So here we go. Jesus for me has been a constant companion on my journey through life. Sometimes he's in front of me saying follow me. Sometimes he's behind me pushing me along. But most often he's walking side by side with me, talking with me, listening to me whine, and I'm sure wondering if I'm listening to him.
I'm glad for this relationship it has sustained me since I was born. And it has ebbed and flowed but never ceased. So who do you say he is?
Blessings,
Ed
I am a member of the Committee on the Priesthood here in the Diocese of New Jersey. The purpose of this group is to help people who feel called to the priesthood, to discern whether there is a call or not. One of my favorite questions to asks these folks is "who do you say Jesus is?" I ask it so much that it has become known as the Zelley question.
I don't think it is an unfair question, though I will say that it often takes people by surprise. The fear of course is that I have an answer and if I don't like your answer or if it isn't my answer I might vote no. The reality is that I just want an answer. I'd prefer one that avoids pious platitudes and other jargon. I'd like to hear how that answer has been experienced or lived out.
I suppose it would be only fair for me to give my answer. So here we go. Jesus for me has been a constant companion on my journey through life. Sometimes he's in front of me saying follow me. Sometimes he's behind me pushing me along. But most often he's walking side by side with me, talking with me, listening to me whine, and I'm sure wondering if I'm listening to him.
I'm glad for this relationship it has sustained me since I was born. And it has ebbed and flowed but never ceased. So who do you say he is?
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, July 17, 2015
Reflection for July 17, 2015
"She said, 'Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.'"(Matthew 13:27)
Prejudice. We never want to be told we have them. Yet somehow engrained in our culture is always some kind of prejudice. Usually it is towards people who are different from us. We may never have actually encountered such folk, but somehow we've figured out that they aren't like us, and something strange is always a little frightening.
Even Jesus of Nazareth, seems to have had a bias. This encounter with a Caananite woman shows it. She asks for help and Jesus' first response is to basically call her a dog. Not worth his time. Now she could have gone away just like a kicked dog, but instead she fired back about even dogs get some crumbs. That response was an aha moment for Jesus. And he saw her faith, a faith that at first the who she was had blocked him from seeing.
What would it take for us to have that kind of aha moment? I know for me it has always been in encountering someone who doesn't fit my poorly conceived biases. I choose to make that positive encounter with someone different from the norm rather than the exception. But make no mistake without choosing to go that way, I could also take the lazy way of stereotyping every non white, straight male so that I don't actually have to listen or deal with them. Thank you God for not letting me get away with that.
Blessings,
Ed
Prejudice. We never want to be told we have them. Yet somehow engrained in our culture is always some kind of prejudice. Usually it is towards people who are different from us. We may never have actually encountered such folk, but somehow we've figured out that they aren't like us, and something strange is always a little frightening.
Even Jesus of Nazareth, seems to have had a bias. This encounter with a Caananite woman shows it. She asks for help and Jesus' first response is to basically call her a dog. Not worth his time. Now she could have gone away just like a kicked dog, but instead she fired back about even dogs get some crumbs. That response was an aha moment for Jesus. And he saw her faith, a faith that at first the who she was had blocked him from seeing.
What would it take for us to have that kind of aha moment? I know for me it has always been in encountering someone who doesn't fit my poorly conceived biases. I choose to make that positive encounter with someone different from the norm rather than the exception. But make no mistake without choosing to go that way, I could also take the lazy way of stereotyping every non white, straight male so that I don't actually have to listen or deal with them. Thank you God for not letting me get away with that.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Reflection for July 16, 2015
"But when he noticed the strong wind, he became frightened, and beginning to sink, he cried out, 'Lord save me!'"(Matthew 14:30)
I'm not sure really which disciple I identify with the most, but Peter, who I'm sure is an extrovert is one. He always seems to think with his mouth first. In the scene from which the verse is taken, Jesus is walking on the water. The disciples think it is a ghost. Jesus says no it is him and Peter says if it is you command me to come to you.
Why does Peter do this? Basically he is speaking from a place of doubt, if it is you. Then when Jesus says come, he doesn't hesitate, even though as a fisherman he should know that you don't walk on water. And while the euphoria of doing the impossible is great at first he suddenly notices that the wind was still there, the aspects of nature that make life hard and he starts to sink. Jesus literally has to pull him up.
I know that experience of being at first willing to take the risk of getting out of my "boat" or comfort zone if you will. And when I take that risk I'm often surprised by the positive things that begin to happen. I can do things I didn't think possible, but I went forth in trust that God was calling.
But it is also true that when things get a little a shaky I may begin to doubt that first decision. And things start to sink. But if I recall that initial trust, I can get pulled back on track. Of course the question is still the same, why did I doubt.
Trusting the presence of Christ is what Christians are called to do, especially when we choose to leave our comfort zones and take some risks. But if we keep our eye on the goal, the winds and doubts might not be so distracting.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm not sure really which disciple I identify with the most, but Peter, who I'm sure is an extrovert is one. He always seems to think with his mouth first. In the scene from which the verse is taken, Jesus is walking on the water. The disciples think it is a ghost. Jesus says no it is him and Peter says if it is you command me to come to you.
Why does Peter do this? Basically he is speaking from a place of doubt, if it is you. Then when Jesus says come, he doesn't hesitate, even though as a fisherman he should know that you don't walk on water. And while the euphoria of doing the impossible is great at first he suddenly notices that the wind was still there, the aspects of nature that make life hard and he starts to sink. Jesus literally has to pull him up.
I know that experience of being at first willing to take the risk of getting out of my "boat" or comfort zone if you will. And when I take that risk I'm often surprised by the positive things that begin to happen. I can do things I didn't think possible, but I went forth in trust that God was calling.
But it is also true that when things get a little a shaky I may begin to doubt that first decision. And things start to sink. But if I recall that initial trust, I can get pulled back on track. Of course the question is still the same, why did I doubt.
Trusting the presence of Christ is what Christians are called to do, especially when we choose to leave our comfort zones and take some risks. But if we keep our eye on the goal, the winds and doubts might not be so distracting.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, July 15, 2015
Reflection for July 15, 2015
"And he said to them, 'Therefore every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of heaven is like the master of a household who brings out of his treasure what is new and what is old.'"(Matthew 13:52)
One of the poles of people that I've noticed are those who love every new thing and every new way and those who only appreciate old things and ways.
There is certainly something said to keeping current. Knowing how to use technology to further oneself or one's passions. I certainly like the new gadgets that I can afford, but I'm not likely to be one of the first to get something. I know in my own vocation there are new ways to do ministry and some I've incorporated and others I won't go near.
As a history major and a bit of a traditionalist in some ways. I have a deep appreciation for old traditions and historical artifacts and antiques. I know that they can hearken me back to a place in my past or a place that I didn't know. It also keeps me connected to the communion of saints.
The best gift is when we can discern what is valuable in the new and the old. And also what is just a passing fad that can only bring us a second of happiness and what is a ball and chain that keeps us from progressing and makes us stuck.
When we can get that right, perhaps we are closer to being trained to live and move in the Kingdom of God. When we put all our loyalty and devotion into an either or choice, we may be creating an idol.
Blessings,
Ed
One of the poles of people that I've noticed are those who love every new thing and every new way and those who only appreciate old things and ways.
There is certainly something said to keeping current. Knowing how to use technology to further oneself or one's passions. I certainly like the new gadgets that I can afford, but I'm not likely to be one of the first to get something. I know in my own vocation there are new ways to do ministry and some I've incorporated and others I won't go near.
As a history major and a bit of a traditionalist in some ways. I have a deep appreciation for old traditions and historical artifacts and antiques. I know that they can hearken me back to a place in my past or a place that I didn't know. It also keeps me connected to the communion of saints.
The best gift is when we can discern what is valuable in the new and the old. And also what is just a passing fad that can only bring us a second of happiness and what is a ball and chain that keeps us from progressing and makes us stuck.
When we can get that right, perhaps we are closer to being trained to live and move in the Kingdom of God. When we put all our loyalty and devotion into an either or choice, we may be creating an idol.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Reflection for July 14, 2015
"I tell you, on the day of judgment you will have to give an account for every careless word you utter."(Matthew 12:36)
If you had to give an account for every mistake and hurtful thing you ever did, would you be able to? Probably not. Now if that seems hard, imagine how much harder to be held accountable for every hurtful, careless word you ever uttered. And yet Jesus says in this passage that is exactly what will be required of us.
We know our mouths can get us in trouble. How often do we say something spur of the moment in response to someone or something and later wish we had kept silent. Sometimes we get to enamored with the sound of our own voice.
In our age of social media where little is said but much is shared I wonder if Jesus' teaching could be applied? You will have to give an account for every stupid, false or hurtful meme you chose to share. Every polemic you chose to forward. Maybe we might take some time before hitting send or share.
Blessings,
Ed
If you had to give an account for every mistake and hurtful thing you ever did, would you be able to? Probably not. Now if that seems hard, imagine how much harder to be held accountable for every hurtful, careless word you ever uttered. And yet Jesus says in this passage that is exactly what will be required of us.
We know our mouths can get us in trouble. How often do we say something spur of the moment in response to someone or something and later wish we had kept silent. Sometimes we get to enamored with the sound of our own voice.
In our age of social media where little is said but much is shared I wonder if Jesus' teaching could be applied? You will have to give an account for every stupid, false or hurtful meme you chose to share. Every polemic you chose to forward. Maybe we might take some time before hitting send or share.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, July 13, 2015
Reflection for July 13, 2015
"Come to me, all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens and I will give you rest."(Matthew 11:28)
In the Episcopal Rite I service we have what are called the comfortable words. The above verse is one of them.
There is an invitation first and foremost to come. So many of us need a come to Jesus moment. That time when we face the truth about ourselves. And one of those truths may be that we feel weary and that our lives are burdened. I have certainly bad moments when I've felt that way. Too much on my plate, so many demands on my time and feeling like there is no end in sight. Be burdened by worries about my family, my finances, what is going on in the world around me. All of it piling on and weighing heavily.
The first come to Jesus moment can be to let some of those burdens go. Not all of them because we have a friend not a slave in Jesus. The invitation is to put some things down for a moment and rest. And in that resting we can start to prioritize what is essential to us, and what are responsibilities that we need to take on.
Jesus later in this chapter invites us to take his yoke upon us. We're not freed from a yoke, but it isn't as heavy as the yoke we put on ourselves or that others place upon us.
Blessings,
Ed
In the Episcopal Rite I service we have what are called the comfortable words. The above verse is one of them.
There is an invitation first and foremost to come. So many of us need a come to Jesus moment. That time when we face the truth about ourselves. And one of those truths may be that we feel weary and that our lives are burdened. I have certainly bad moments when I've felt that way. Too much on my plate, so many demands on my time and feeling like there is no end in sight. Be burdened by worries about my family, my finances, what is going on in the world around me. All of it piling on and weighing heavily.
The first come to Jesus moment can be to let some of those burdens go. Not all of them because we have a friend not a slave in Jesus. The invitation is to put some things down for a moment and rest. And in that resting we can start to prioritize what is essential to us, and what are responsibilities that we need to take on.
Jesus later in this chapter invites us to take his yoke upon us. We're not freed from a yoke, but it isn't as heavy as the yoke we put on ourselves or that others place upon us.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, July 11, 2015
Reflection for July 11, 2015
"If anyone will not welcome you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet as you leave that house or town."(Matthew 10:14)
I'm going to be moving in about a month. I will be leaving a town I've called home for about 19.5 years. The one thing I won't be doing is shaking the dust off my feet. The reason of course is that I've been welcomed here and people have listened to my words. I'm moving from one good place to another, so there isn't anything to shake off.
But I do understand how that passage can be applied to everyday life. There are situations from which we must move on. Where we do need to shake the dust off our feet. Those kinds of situations that make us feel dirty that something unnecessary is clinging to us. How do you shake it off?
Those times when I've had to move on, when I'm no longer welcome, loved or listened to, I have tried to have some kind of ritual around letting go. I offer up the pain of it to God and leave the dust of the memory of it where it belongs.
That symbolic gesture of shaking the dust off is pretty powerful, you are saying to that situation nothing about it will be a part of me anymore.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm going to be moving in about a month. I will be leaving a town I've called home for about 19.5 years. The one thing I won't be doing is shaking the dust off my feet. The reason of course is that I've been welcomed here and people have listened to my words. I'm moving from one good place to another, so there isn't anything to shake off.
But I do understand how that passage can be applied to everyday life. There are situations from which we must move on. Where we do need to shake the dust off our feet. Those kinds of situations that make us feel dirty that something unnecessary is clinging to us. How do you shake it off?
Those times when I've had to move on, when I'm no longer welcome, loved or listened to, I have tried to have some kind of ritual around letting go. I offer up the pain of it to God and leave the dust of the memory of it where it belongs.
That symbolic gesture of shaking the dust off is pretty powerful, you are saying to that situation nothing about it will be a part of me anymore.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, July 10, 2015
Reflection for July 10, 2015
"When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd."(Matthew 9:36)
When I was ordained my dad preached. What I recall most about that sermon was his emphasis on the word compassion. To feel with others. Compassion for me flows from empathy and sympathy. But it certainly indicates a relationship that exists and where help is coming forth.
As a Christian I believe Jesus to be that shepherd who sees us harassed and helpless and longs to help. As a priest I try to model my ministry after Jesus. When I notice folks harassed and helpless and perhaps just plain lost, that I look to be that shepherd who keeps things moving in a safe and loving way.
When you feel harassed and helpless, where and to whom do you turn? When you encounter folks who are harassed and helpless, can you be the living incarnation of the Good Shepherd?
Blessings
Ed
When I was ordained my dad preached. What I recall most about that sermon was his emphasis on the word compassion. To feel with others. Compassion for me flows from empathy and sympathy. But it certainly indicates a relationship that exists and where help is coming forth.
As a Christian I believe Jesus to be that shepherd who sees us harassed and helpless and longs to help. As a priest I try to model my ministry after Jesus. When I notice folks harassed and helpless and perhaps just plain lost, that I look to be that shepherd who keeps things moving in a safe and loving way.
When you feel harassed and helpless, where and to whom do you turn? When you encounter folks who are harassed and helpless, can you be the living incarnation of the Good Shepherd?
Blessings
Ed
Thursday, July 9, 2015
Reflection for July 9, 2015
"For they made his spirit bitter, and he spoke words that were rash."(Psalm 106:33)
There seems to me at least two things that we do when we are angry or annoyed. We either go silent or we start running off at the mouth, speaking before we think.
When someone has pushed your buttons, pushed you to your limit, the mouth often leads the push back. And when things have calmed down you realize that you just said something you wish you could take back but it is now too late.
For Moses the people's whining in the wilderness got him to that point. And instead of trusting that God would provide he made his rash statement "can God do this?" get water out of a rock. That one moment of rashness caused him to not be able to enter the promised land.
How do we get to amend for the words that we speak in the heat of the moment? The first step is of course to recognize our rashness and then to seek forgiveness from those whom our words hurt. It is really amazing how much our words can become our own undoing.
Blessings,
Ed
There seems to me at least two things that we do when we are angry or annoyed. We either go silent or we start running off at the mouth, speaking before we think.
When someone has pushed your buttons, pushed you to your limit, the mouth often leads the push back. And when things have calmed down you realize that you just said something you wish you could take back but it is now too late.
For Moses the people's whining in the wilderness got him to that point. And instead of trusting that God would provide he made his rash statement "can God do this?" get water out of a rock. That one moment of rashness caused him to not be able to enter the promised land.
How do we get to amend for the words that we speak in the heat of the moment? The first step is of course to recognize our rashness and then to seek forgiveness from those whom our words hurt. It is really amazing how much our words can become our own undoing.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, July 8, 2015
Reflection for July 8, 2015
"You hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor's eye."(Matthew 7:5)
With so much change happening in our world and especially in the world of morals and ethics a new rise in righteous indignation and judgmental behavior is happening along with it.
While I firmly believe that dialogue on issues is important, especially if we are to gain a better understanding of where others who may not see it the same way, that is not the same thing as making pronouncements of my being right and you being wrong.
When we talk of personal relationships with Jesus I believe it is important to consider the invitation to self examination before I decide to become judge of the world. The problem of course is that I can't see what others have wrong in their lives if I'm not clear about what is wrong with my own. The log keeps me from seeing and in fact may be so huge that I just give up and move onto focusing on other people's behavior. That's much easier but because I really can't see I'll probably wind up doing more harm than good.
A little further in this chapter Jesus gives us his version of the Golden Rule "In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets." I'd rather work on my own logs and will allow others to do the same.
Blessings,
Ed
With so much change happening in our world and especially in the world of morals and ethics a new rise in righteous indignation and judgmental behavior is happening along with it.
While I firmly believe that dialogue on issues is important, especially if we are to gain a better understanding of where others who may not see it the same way, that is not the same thing as making pronouncements of my being right and you being wrong.
When we talk of personal relationships with Jesus I believe it is important to consider the invitation to self examination before I decide to become judge of the world. The problem of course is that I can't see what others have wrong in their lives if I'm not clear about what is wrong with my own. The log keeps me from seeing and in fact may be so huge that I just give up and move onto focusing on other people's behavior. That's much easier but because I really can't see I'll probably wind up doing more harm than good.
A little further in this chapter Jesus gives us his version of the Golden Rule "In everything do to others as you would have them do to you; for this is the law and the prophets." I'd rather work on my own logs and will allow others to do the same.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, July 7, 2015
Reflection for July 7, 2015
"So do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will bring worries of its own. Today's trouble is enough for today."(Matthew 6:34)
Matthew 6 has always been one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. It was hard to pick just one verse to reflect on. This verse concludes the section about worrying. Worrying is something all of us do. We worry about ourselves, we worry about our families, we worry about our country, we worry about the world.
And while I'm not saying we should just be Alfred E Neumann about what is happening in and around us, I do wonder about how much time is wasted in worrying. This is especially true when I worry about things I can do nothing about. When I worry so much that it keeps me from doing anything. When I worry about something when I should be trying to go to sleep. It is a very counter productive use of time.
I try to take things one day and one step at a time. And I do find that there is enough going on each day to occupy my time in hopefully productive ways in addition to the usual concerns.
Blessings,
Ed
Matthew 6 has always been one of my favorite chapters in the Bible. It was hard to pick just one verse to reflect on. This verse concludes the section about worrying. Worrying is something all of us do. We worry about ourselves, we worry about our families, we worry about our country, we worry about the world.
And while I'm not saying we should just be Alfred E Neumann about what is happening in and around us, I do wonder about how much time is wasted in worrying. This is especially true when I worry about things I can do nothing about. When I worry so much that it keeps me from doing anything. When I worry about something when I should be trying to go to sleep. It is a very counter productive use of time.
I try to take things one day and one step at a time. And I do find that there is enough going on each day to occupy my time in hopefully productive ways in addition to the usual concerns.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, July 6, 2015
Reflection for July 6, 2015
"But I say to you that if you are angry with a brother or sister you will be liable to judgment and if you insult a brother or sister you will be liable to the council and if you say, 'You fool!' you will be liable to the hell of fire."(Matthew 5:22)
One of the ten commandments as we know is you shall not murder. And most of us are pretty good at keeping that commandment. The problem is that Jesus, as he often does goes below the surface of the words and points us to a greater truth.
When we are angry with someone, we have to an extent murdered them. We have robbed them of their dignity and we waste a lot of emotional energy as well. It is hard not to get angry with people and situations. How long we hold onto our anger and what we do with it will say a lot.
I have met people who only seem happy if they are angry about something. What a waste of time and eventually oneself. I can't take perpetually angry people seriously. How can you gage whether something is worth the anger if that's the only mood ever displayed.
Insulting others is another form of murder because you are taking away their dignity. On top of the insult itself is the underlying belief that the other person doesn't matter at all.
If I am called to respect the dignity of every human being I need to check my anger and my quick wit at the door.
Blessings,
Ed
One of the ten commandments as we know is you shall not murder. And most of us are pretty good at keeping that commandment. The problem is that Jesus, as he often does goes below the surface of the words and points us to a greater truth.
When we are angry with someone, we have to an extent murdered them. We have robbed them of their dignity and we waste a lot of emotional energy as well. It is hard not to get angry with people and situations. How long we hold onto our anger and what we do with it will say a lot.
I have met people who only seem happy if they are angry about something. What a waste of time and eventually oneself. I can't take perpetually angry people seriously. How can you gage whether something is worth the anger if that's the only mood ever displayed.
Insulting others is another form of murder because you are taking away their dignity. On top of the insult itself is the underlying belief that the other person doesn't matter at all.
If I am called to respect the dignity of every human being I need to check my anger and my quick wit at the door.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, July 4, 2015
Reflection for July 4, 2015
"Sow for yourselves righteousness; reap steadfast love; break up your fallow ground;
for it is time to seek the Lord, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you."(Hosea 10:12)
Yesterday's reading from Hosea had sowing wind and reaping a whirlwind, today we move in a more positive direction sowing righteousness and reaping steadfast love.
What does it mean to sow righteousness? For me it is an invitation to do the right thing. It is not an invitation to be self-righteous. In doing the right thing, even if it isn't the popular or the safe thing the promise is to reap steadfast love. The kind of love that is consistent and will sustain even when we aren't feeling it from others.
But sometimes we have to begin that sowing of righteousness anew. To tap into ourselves something that has perhaps gone unattended. Breaking up the fallow ground of indifference. It doesn't have to be about changing from being a horrible person into a good person, though that's not a bad idea. But when we don't seem to care, when we say it isn't my problem. When we ask, how does this affect me?
And sometimes even for those of us who believe in God, we may have to seek him in ways we hadn't before, that way the righteousness that comes from God and his presence with us, can be steadfast and lead us to acts of mercy and compassion and love.
Blessings,
Ed
for it is time to seek the Lord, that he may come and rain righteousness upon you."(Hosea 10:12)
Yesterday's reading from Hosea had sowing wind and reaping a whirlwind, today we move in a more positive direction sowing righteousness and reaping steadfast love.
What does it mean to sow righteousness? For me it is an invitation to do the right thing. It is not an invitation to be self-righteous. In doing the right thing, even if it isn't the popular or the safe thing the promise is to reap steadfast love. The kind of love that is consistent and will sustain even when we aren't feeling it from others.
But sometimes we have to begin that sowing of righteousness anew. To tap into ourselves something that has perhaps gone unattended. Breaking up the fallow ground of indifference. It doesn't have to be about changing from being a horrible person into a good person, though that's not a bad idea. But when we don't seem to care, when we say it isn't my problem. When we ask, how does this affect me?
And sometimes even for those of us who believe in God, we may have to seek him in ways we hadn't before, that way the righteousness that comes from God and his presence with us, can be steadfast and lead us to acts of mercy and compassion and love.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, July 3, 2015
Reflection for July 3, 2015
"For they sow the wind, and they shall reap the whirlwind. The standing grain has no heads,
it shall yield no meal; if it were to yield, foreigners would devour it."(Hosea 8:7)
Have you ever made what you thought was a harmless mistake? Just got something wrong and someone calls you on it. Instead of admitting it and fixing the problem or just moving on to something else you have to keep justifying it and defending the decision and suddenly what probably was nothing spins out of control and grows bigger than it ever needed to be.
That for me this is like sowing the wind and reaping the whirlwind. An example of this lately for me has been the defense of the Confederate Flag. In its beginning it was just the symbol of the Confederate army. An army that some of my ancestors fought for and by the way lost more than just a war, since they exchanged their money for Confederate currency. But almost 150 years later this flag has become a whirlwind of bizarreness. With the advent of the KKK it went from being about soldiers in a long ago ended war to a symbol linked with a terrorist organization. And with racism being taken very seriously these days cries for it to be gone from public display have gotten louder. And the flag should be gone. The wildness of this whirlwind is the cancellation of showing reruns of a fairly unimportant and frankly not well written 70's TV show Dukes of Hazzard because one of the two things anyone remembers about the show, the car called the General Lee, has a Confederate Flag painted on its roof. To watch the apoplexy of defense for this show is hysterical to me. But it continues to keep the whirlwind going. It begs the question why so many people many who have never lived in what was once the Confederacy and whose ancestors probably came to this country in the 20th century and for whom the KKK would have had not tolerance for either.
Sadly when a whirlwind gets going all kinds of things get blown away and a lot of hot air blows. Maybe it is time to sow something a little more productive.
Blessings,
Ed
it shall yield no meal; if it were to yield, foreigners would devour it."(Hosea 8:7)
Have you ever made what you thought was a harmless mistake? Just got something wrong and someone calls you on it. Instead of admitting it and fixing the problem or just moving on to something else you have to keep justifying it and defending the decision and suddenly what probably was nothing spins out of control and grows bigger than it ever needed to be.
That for me this is like sowing the wind and reaping the whirlwind. An example of this lately for me has been the defense of the Confederate Flag. In its beginning it was just the symbol of the Confederate army. An army that some of my ancestors fought for and by the way lost more than just a war, since they exchanged their money for Confederate currency. But almost 150 years later this flag has become a whirlwind of bizarreness. With the advent of the KKK it went from being about soldiers in a long ago ended war to a symbol linked with a terrorist organization. And with racism being taken very seriously these days cries for it to be gone from public display have gotten louder. And the flag should be gone. The wildness of this whirlwind is the cancellation of showing reruns of a fairly unimportant and frankly not well written 70's TV show Dukes of Hazzard because one of the two things anyone remembers about the show, the car called the General Lee, has a Confederate Flag painted on its roof. To watch the apoplexy of defense for this show is hysterical to me. But it continues to keep the whirlwind going. It begs the question why so many people many who have never lived in what was once the Confederacy and whose ancestors probably came to this country in the 20th century and for whom the KKK would have had not tolerance for either.
Sadly when a whirlwind gets going all kinds of things get blown away and a lot of hot air blows. Maybe it is time to sow something a little more productive.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, July 2, 2015
Reflections for July 2, 2015
"And having been warned in a dream not to return to Herod, they left for their own country by another road."(Matthew 2:12)
Funny reading about the wise men in July, but I always have loved that last line going home by another road. Generally speaking I'm a creature of habit. I tend to take the same way when going particular places. Since having a GPS with live traffic updates I occasionally have been taken to my destination by ways I might not have thought about. Yet I always get to where I'm trying to go and sometimes faster than the usual route.
Much of life is about taking the same path, having a routine. We like the familiar, the landmarks along the way that tell us we are getting close. But there are times when a different road needs to be taken. That can be frightening because we don't know that way. There are no familiar landmarks for us to gain a sense of how far we are along the way. But these other roads can also show us things that we haven't seen before and we may be going that way in order to avoid a real disaster, something that can truly impede our journey.
What I find to be true as I prepare to "journey back to my hometown," is that I know lots of ways to get there, and that my companion on the journey still remains. And while the journey back to the hometown has taken a while, what I've seen along the way will hopefully make the homecoming sweeter.
Blessings,
Ed
Funny reading about the wise men in July, but I always have loved that last line going home by another road. Generally speaking I'm a creature of habit. I tend to take the same way when going particular places. Since having a GPS with live traffic updates I occasionally have been taken to my destination by ways I might not have thought about. Yet I always get to where I'm trying to go and sometimes faster than the usual route.
Much of life is about taking the same path, having a routine. We like the familiar, the landmarks along the way that tell us we are getting close. But there are times when a different road needs to be taken. That can be frightening because we don't know that way. There are no familiar landmarks for us to gain a sense of how far we are along the way. But these other roads can also show us things that we haven't seen before and we may be going that way in order to avoid a real disaster, something that can truly impede our journey.
What I find to be true as I prepare to "journey back to my hometown," is that I know lots of ways to get there, and that my companion on the journey still remains. And while the journey back to the hometown has taken a while, what I've seen along the way will hopefully make the homecoming sweeter.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, July 1, 2015
Reflection for July 1, 2015
"Mighty King, lover of justice, you have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob."(Psalm 99:4)
This verse from Psalm 99 certainly has great things about how God thinks and acts. I personally like that to love justice there must be equity. So when the playing field is not level, when everyone is not judged by the same standards then justice can't actually be executed.
The problem is that most of our judgments don't walk hand in hand with equity. They are made through the lenses of our experience. We may claim to not see difference along lines of race, gender or sexual orientation, but we really do. To try to combat these biases within ourselves is hard work indeed. Much easier to just offer my opinion and be self-righteous about it, without having to own that my vision may have some serious distortions.
So I have to remind myself that without equity there really can't be justice. God has pulled it off and has invited us to follow that path.
Blessings,
Ed
This verse from Psalm 99 certainly has great things about how God thinks and acts. I personally like that to love justice there must be equity. So when the playing field is not level, when everyone is not judged by the same standards then justice can't actually be executed.
The problem is that most of our judgments don't walk hand in hand with equity. They are made through the lenses of our experience. We may claim to not see difference along lines of race, gender or sexual orientation, but we really do. To try to combat these biases within ourselves is hard work indeed. Much easier to just offer my opinion and be self-righteous about it, without having to own that my vision may have some serious distortions.
So I have to remind myself that without equity there really can't be justice. God has pulled it off and has invited us to follow that path.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Reflection for June 30, 2015
"The Spirit and the bride say, “Come.” And let everyone who hears say, “Come.” And let everyone who is thirsty come. Let anyone who wishes take the water of life as a gift."(Revelation 22:17)
Being invited to things is always pleasing to me. It says at a certain level what we are doing is important and we want you there. That's why I like give as well as receive invitations. There are parts of my life that I wish to share with others, my faith and my experience in church are examples o this.
Of course my hope is that people who accept the initial invitation will catch the Spirit and will also invite others and so on and so on. That's how a faith community grows through invitation. That's how all relationships begin, someone offers an invitation and someone says yes.
The invitation to faith is an open invitation with no RSVP date. And there are even gifts when you come.
Blessings,
Ed
Being invited to things is always pleasing to me. It says at a certain level what we are doing is important and we want you there. That's why I like give as well as receive invitations. There are parts of my life that I wish to share with others, my faith and my experience in church are examples o this.
Of course my hope is that people who accept the initial invitation will catch the Spirit and will also invite others and so on and so on. That's how a faith community grows through invitation. That's how all relationships begin, someone offers an invitation and someone says yes.
The invitation to faith is an open invitation with no RSVP date. And there are even gifts when you come.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, June 29, 2015
Reflections for June 29, 2015
"And the city has no need of sun or moon to shine on it, for the glory of God is its light, and its lamp is the Lamb."(Revelation 21:23)
Well after 5 days with out electricity I can start blogging again. I realize this is a first world problem and there are plenty of places around the globe who live just fine without it.
The funny thing is how losing the things you are dependent upon to make life "livable" can really mess with your energy and your psyche.
But throughout this brief "powerless" span I certainly sensed that I was still walking and living in the light of God. I noticed it in the fact that very little damage was done to my house or the church, and while there was significant damage to many in my area, no one was killed. I sensed it in the way close friends invited us to stay with them so we could have access to electricity and get a good nights sleep.
Do I want to live without electricity and hot water again anytime soon? Definitely not. But I know that as long as God is still living and incarnate in the loving kindness of others, I have no need of what gives artificial light to my life.
Blessings,
Ed
Well after 5 days with out electricity I can start blogging again. I realize this is a first world problem and there are plenty of places around the globe who live just fine without it.
The funny thing is how losing the things you are dependent upon to make life "livable" can really mess with your energy and your psyche.
But throughout this brief "powerless" span I certainly sensed that I was still walking and living in the light of God. I noticed it in the fact that very little damage was done to my house or the church, and while there was significant damage to many in my area, no one was killed. I sensed it in the way close friends invited us to stay with them so we could have access to electricity and get a good nights sleep.
Do I want to live without electricity and hot water again anytime soon? Definitely not. But I know that as long as God is still living and incarnate in the loving kindness of others, I have no need of what gives artificial light to my life.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Reflection for June 23, 2015
"To declare your steadfast love in the morning, and your faithfulness by night."(Psalm 92:2)
When I wake up in the morning I'm reminded of a steadfast love in my life, because usually lying next to me is Gail. I'm thankful for that steadfast love and the gift that she is in my life. I'm thankful for the health I have that when my feet hit the floor I'm ready to greet the day. I'm thankful for the food I'll eat and the coffee I'll drink. I may not articulate it but deep within it is there. And of course a little later I do Morning Prayer.
By the end of the day I take stock of how things went. Was I faithful in doing what I needed to do that day? Did I sense God's faithful presence with me as I went about doing what needed to be done. And of course I wrap it up with Evening Prayer.
Love and faithfulness are not things we can purchase. We receive them freely and we offer them freely. When we have them in our lives how very blessed we are. When we live fully into those words how much of a blessing we can be.
Blessings
Ed
When I wake up in the morning I'm reminded of a steadfast love in my life, because usually lying next to me is Gail. I'm thankful for that steadfast love and the gift that she is in my life. I'm thankful for the health I have that when my feet hit the floor I'm ready to greet the day. I'm thankful for the food I'll eat and the coffee I'll drink. I may not articulate it but deep within it is there. And of course a little later I do Morning Prayer.
By the end of the day I take stock of how things went. Was I faithful in doing what I needed to do that day? Did I sense God's faithful presence with me as I went about doing what needed to be done. And of course I wrap it up with Evening Prayer.
Love and faithfulness are not things we can purchase. We receive them freely and we offer them freely. When we have them in our lives how very blessed we are. When we live fully into those words how much of a blessing we can be.
Blessings
Ed
Monday, June 22, 2015
Reflection for June 22, 2015
"On their hands they will bear you up, so that you will not dash your foot against a stone."(Psalm 91:12)
Most of us have heard of having a guardian angel. Whether you believe that such a being exists for you personal protection is a matter of faith. I'm not sure that I have something like "Charlie" from its a wonderful life, but I will say that there have been moments when something should have gone one way and went another, from a negative to a positive.
It certainly is within my belief system that as a beloved child of God, that I feel watched out for. That doesn't mean that I live in 24 hour security or that I'm invited to engage in risky behavior. I'm not called to prove whether God is watching or not.
The other thing about this verse you will recall is that Satan uses it as part of his temptations of Christ. And in there lies the warning. When we use scripture and twist it to invite bizarre behavior we probably have missed the point.
Blessings,
Ed
Most of us have heard of having a guardian angel. Whether you believe that such a being exists for you personal protection is a matter of faith. I'm not sure that I have something like "Charlie" from its a wonderful life, but I will say that there have been moments when something should have gone one way and went another, from a negative to a positive.
It certainly is within my belief system that as a beloved child of God, that I feel watched out for. That doesn't mean that I live in 24 hour security or that I'm invited to engage in risky behavior. I'm not called to prove whether God is watching or not.
The other thing about this verse you will recall is that Satan uses it as part of his temptations of Christ. And in there lies the warning. When we use scripture and twist it to invite bizarre behavior we probably have missed the point.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, June 20, 2015
Reflections for June 20, 2015
"It is these who have not defiled themselves with women, for they are virgins; these follow the Lamb wherever he goes. They have been redeemed from humankind as first fruits for God and the Lamb,"(Revelation 14:4)
So who gets in and who doesn't? Seems like this ridiculous argument happens from time to time with Christians, either attacking each other or going after the non-believers. The 144,000 mentioned in Revelation is a number that is brought forth in determining who gets to be in God's presence.
Personally I find the argument silly. First off I'm pretty sure I'm not one of the 144,000. First that's a small number given the amount of time that has past since the vision. Second I wouldn't know from which tribe of Israel I hail. And third as this verse shows I'm out by default of having "defiled myself with women, for they are virgins."
I have, though I wouldn't use the word defiled, and I'm not. So am I doomed. Hardly. Luckily there is in God's presence a vast multitude that cannot be numbered, I'm pretty sure that's where you'll find me.
To focus on the 144000 is to put limits on God. It also shows in my opinion a belief that God plays favorites. So should you ever have the misfortune of being accosted by someone who wants to know if you are part of that 144000, ask them are they sure that they are and then remind them of this caveat.
Blessings,
Ed
So who gets in and who doesn't? Seems like this ridiculous argument happens from time to time with Christians, either attacking each other or going after the non-believers. The 144,000 mentioned in Revelation is a number that is brought forth in determining who gets to be in God's presence.
Personally I find the argument silly. First off I'm pretty sure I'm not one of the 144,000. First that's a small number given the amount of time that has past since the vision. Second I wouldn't know from which tribe of Israel I hail. And third as this verse shows I'm out by default of having "defiled myself with women, for they are virgins."
I have, though I wouldn't use the word defiled, and I'm not. So am I doomed. Hardly. Luckily there is in God's presence a vast multitude that cannot be numbered, I'm pretty sure that's where you'll find me.
To focus on the 144000 is to put limits on God. It also shows in my opinion a belief that God plays favorites. So should you ever have the misfortune of being accosted by someone who wants to know if you are part of that 144000, ask them are they sure that they are and then remind them of this caveat.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, June 19, 2015
Reflection for June 19, 2015
"Remember how short my time is for what vanity you have created all mortals!"(Psalm 89:47)
I'm now entering the last month and a half of my ministry here at Holy Trinity, my time here is truly short. 19.5 years doesn't seem short but in the grand scheme of things it is. I try to use this ending time to the wrap things up, say my goodbyes well, and to start to prepare for the next thing.
I will cherish the "short time" that I've been privileged to be here. I have many happy memories, baptisms, weddings, Sunday worship, and of course the people. Even outside of church I will continue to remember this short time in my life, where I got to be a Scout leader, a coach and perhaps the chaplain to a town.
All of those memories are a little bit vain. They are about me after all. But we are created and put in a specific place for a specific time in order to do something that hopefully makes a positive impact. Time and space will tell the story. And no matter how many short times I have left, I hope they will be filled with joy, peace and health.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm now entering the last month and a half of my ministry here at Holy Trinity, my time here is truly short. 19.5 years doesn't seem short but in the grand scheme of things it is. I try to use this ending time to the wrap things up, say my goodbyes well, and to start to prepare for the next thing.
I will cherish the "short time" that I've been privileged to be here. I have many happy memories, baptisms, weddings, Sunday worship, and of course the people. Even outside of church I will continue to remember this short time in my life, where I got to be a Scout leader, a coach and perhaps the chaplain to a town.
All of those memories are a little bit vain. They are about me after all. But we are created and put in a specific place for a specific time in order to do something that hopefully makes a positive impact. Time and space will tell the story. And no matter how many short times I have left, I hope they will be filled with joy, peace and health.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Reflection for June 18, 2015
"Rejoice then, you heavens and those who dwell in them! But woe to the earth and the sea, for the devil has come down to you, with great wrath, because he knows that his time is short."(Revelation 12:12)
A very frightening image is given to us in this verse from Revelation. The idea of an anthropomorphesized evil, wreaking havoc on us. Having lost the battle in heaven turning its anger on those of us here.
I do not believe in the devil, but I do believe fully that there is evil in the world. I only have to turn on the news to have this sadly affirmed. As we know last night 9 members of a church were killed by a lone gunman for no other reason probably than that they were black. Racism still alive and rearing its ugly head. I keep hoping that the last part of the verse might actually hold true that "his time is short." That in my lifetime I might be able to go a day without hearing of some incredibly evil action being done.
The level of wrath and anger that still swirls around us is for me what keeps the clock running on "the devil" We keep buying him more time. Either by fueling it with our own seething or even by not confronting it when it happens.
Here's hoping one day we can say "rejoice then you earth and sea and all who dwell in them.
Blessings,
Ed
A very frightening image is given to us in this verse from Revelation. The idea of an anthropomorphesized evil, wreaking havoc on us. Having lost the battle in heaven turning its anger on those of us here.
I do not believe in the devil, but I do believe fully that there is evil in the world. I only have to turn on the news to have this sadly affirmed. As we know last night 9 members of a church were killed by a lone gunman for no other reason probably than that they were black. Racism still alive and rearing its ugly head. I keep hoping that the last part of the verse might actually hold true that "his time is short." That in my lifetime I might be able to go a day without hearing of some incredibly evil action being done.
The level of wrath and anger that still swirls around us is for me what keeps the clock running on "the devil" We keep buying him more time. Either by fueling it with our own seething or even by not confronting it when it happens.
Here's hoping one day we can say "rejoice then you earth and sea and all who dwell in them.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Reflection for June 17, 2015
"But I, O Lord, cry out to you; in the morning my prayer comes before you."(Psalm 88:13)
I've tried over a period of time to develop routines at least to start the day. I find the morning routines are easier to maintain mainly because things can happen as the day goes on that might interfere with those routines.
I try to get to the gym in the morning and usually do. But I have become very consistent with Morning Prayer. Most of the major religions have time set aside for prayer. For some it is at very specific times. At least in my part of the body of Christ we don't get down to a specific hour but more a range of time, Morning, Noontime, Evening and Nighttime(compline). As I said Morning Prayer is the one that I keep 7 days a week. I've almost gotten Evening Prayer to that point as well.
But I'll admit to liking Morning Prayer best. It allows me that chance to get centered to pray for focus during the day and to bring myself fully into the day that lies ahead.
In reality the most important thing is that we find some time to come before God with our prayers.
Blessings,
Ed
I've tried over a period of time to develop routines at least to start the day. I find the morning routines are easier to maintain mainly because things can happen as the day goes on that might interfere with those routines.
I try to get to the gym in the morning and usually do. But I have become very consistent with Morning Prayer. Most of the major religions have time set aside for prayer. For some it is at very specific times. At least in my part of the body of Christ we don't get down to a specific hour but more a range of time, Morning, Noontime, Evening and Nighttime(compline). As I said Morning Prayer is the one that I keep 7 days a week. I've almost gotten Evening Prayer to that point as well.
But I'll admit to liking Morning Prayer best. It allows me that chance to get centered to pray for focus during the day and to bring myself fully into the day that lies ahead.
In reality the most important thing is that we find some time to come before God with our prayers.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Reflection for June 16, 2015
"So I took the little scroll from the hand of the angel and ate it; it was sweet as honey in my mouth, but when I had eaten it, my stomach was made bitter."(Revelation 10:10)
We're all familiar with the phrase you will eat those words. That usually means that what you say may come back to haunt you. No matter how sweet and satisfying things may seem at first, especially if they are said from a place of anger or bitterness, ultimately they wind up causing you an upset stomach.
Sometimes the nastiness is so obvious that it is like eating rotten food as soon as it hits your stomach you are sick. Of course it may also take a while for what we've done or said to sink in, to digest, and again a very bitter feeling emerges.
I try to make sure that what I say won't come back to haunt me later. I also try not over indulge, which while momentarily pleasurable also causes uneasiness.
When our words are chosen with thought as to how they will ultimately wind up being understood we have a greater chance of no feeling sick to our stomachs.
Blessings,
Ed
We're all familiar with the phrase you will eat those words. That usually means that what you say may come back to haunt you. No matter how sweet and satisfying things may seem at first, especially if they are said from a place of anger or bitterness, ultimately they wind up causing you an upset stomach.
Sometimes the nastiness is so obvious that it is like eating rotten food as soon as it hits your stomach you are sick. Of course it may also take a while for what we've done or said to sink in, to digest, and again a very bitter feeling emerges.
I try to make sure that what I say won't come back to haunt me later. I also try not over indulge, which while momentarily pleasurable also causes uneasiness.
When our words are chosen with thought as to how they will ultimately wind up being understood we have a greater chance of no feeling sick to our stomachs.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, June 15, 2015
Reflection for June 15, 2015
"But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness."(Psalm 86: 15)
As a person of faith I have experienced the presence of God in my life. Not in a physical way but more in the way I've generally been treated throughout my life. I generally have experienced mercy. I have personally experienced graciousness from others. I have seen people not so quick to get angry and I've witnessed a steadfastness and faithfulness in many relationships.
True I've also seen and experienced personally the opposite as well. And in those times I don't experience God's presence. All of us have seen unmerciful acts, a lack of graciousness, a readiness to react in anger and double dealing and unfaithfulness in all sorts of ways. And we know how evil that feels.
So when I try to live a godly, sober and righteous life I try to imitate these aspects of God. My goal each day is to show mercy if needed. Graciousness even when I'm not being treated in that way. To not make anger my default position, but save it for something worth the effort. And to be as loyal to my friends and relationships.
If that is how God has been towards me and what I hope for from others, I can do no less myself.
Blessings,
Ed
As a person of faith I have experienced the presence of God in my life. Not in a physical way but more in the way I've generally been treated throughout my life. I generally have experienced mercy. I have personally experienced graciousness from others. I have seen people not so quick to get angry and I've witnessed a steadfastness and faithfulness in many relationships.
True I've also seen and experienced personally the opposite as well. And in those times I don't experience God's presence. All of us have seen unmerciful acts, a lack of graciousness, a readiness to react in anger and double dealing and unfaithfulness in all sorts of ways. And we know how evil that feels.
So when I try to live a godly, sober and righteous life I try to imitate these aspects of God. My goal each day is to show mercy if needed. Graciousness even when I'm not being treated in that way. To not make anger my default position, but save it for something worth the effort. And to be as loyal to my friends and relationships.
If that is how God has been towards me and what I hope for from others, I can do no less myself.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, June 11, 2015
Reflection for June 11, 2015
"O my God, make them like whirling dust, like chaff before the wind."(Psalm 83:13)
Have you ever just wished something would go away. Perhaps even someone. The situation or person is becoming so annoying that you feel only outside forces can rid you of it.
Often the psalms give voice to feelings we may not be able to or comfortable with expressing. This is one of those instances for me.
But I know that often a fresh wind blowing through a situation can also get things moving, a real clean sweep. Dust often clings to stuff and when the wind blows you can see it move.
What in your own life feels like it might need to be like chaff before the wind?
Blessings,
Ed
Have you ever just wished something would go away. Perhaps even someone. The situation or person is becoming so annoying that you feel only outside forces can rid you of it.
Often the psalms give voice to feelings we may not be able to or comfortable with expressing. This is one of those instances for me.
But I know that often a fresh wind blowing through a situation can also get things moving, a real clean sweep. Dust often clings to stuff and when the wind blows you can see it move.
What in your own life feels like it might need to be like chaff before the wind?
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
Reflection for June 10, 2015
"Mortal, say to the prince of Tyre. Thus says the Lord God: Because your heart is proud and you have said, 'I am a god; I sit in the seat of the gods, in the heart of the seas,' yet you are but a mortal, and no god, though you compare your mind with the mind of a god." (Ezekiel 28:2)
"I say 'You are gods, children of the Most High, all of you.'"(Psalm 82:6)
As I was reading the passages assigned for today in the Bible Challenge, I was struck by these two seemingly contradictory statements. Ezekiel pointing to a self ascribed godhood, one that rings hollow and proves false and the psalmist with the God's way of viewing us as gods, albeit with some strings attached.
When we get to full of ourselves we may begin to believe we are minor deities. While we may have strengths in certain areas and achieve great things we also have weaknesses and often miss the mark.
That type of ego centrism usually leads to quite a fall.
And yet we can also fail to see the image of God in ourselves when we focus on our failings and our shortcomings, missing how much that image comes from being a beloved child of God. The invitation I hear in that Psalm is to be more like God while acknowledging that I'm not God. To use the gifts and talents that I have. At the same time acknowledging those places where I am weak without letting them be the only thing that defines me.
Blessings,
Ed
"I say 'You are gods, children of the Most High, all of you.'"(Psalm 82:6)
As I was reading the passages assigned for today in the Bible Challenge, I was struck by these two seemingly contradictory statements. Ezekiel pointing to a self ascribed godhood, one that rings hollow and proves false and the psalmist with the God's way of viewing us as gods, albeit with some strings attached.
When we get to full of ourselves we may begin to believe we are minor deities. While we may have strengths in certain areas and achieve great things we also have weaknesses and often miss the mark.
That type of ego centrism usually leads to quite a fall.
And yet we can also fail to see the image of God in ourselves when we focus on our failings and our shortcomings, missing how much that image comes from being a beloved child of God. The invitation I hear in that Psalm is to be more like God while acknowledging that I'm not God. To use the gifts and talents that I have. At the same time acknowledging those places where I am weak without letting them be the only thing that defines me.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Reflection for June 9, 2015
"After this I looked, and there in heaven a door stood open. And the first voice, which I had heard speaking to me like a trumpet, said, 'Come up here and I will show you what must take place after this.'"(Rev. 4:1)
I'll have to admit that today as I went public with my news about being called to a new parish the idea of being shown what comes next feels appealing. Granted what John saw in his vision would frighten most of us.
Actually I really don't want to know what comes next. That would take the adventure out of it, that would ruin the surprises that will come along the way. I know that a door stands open and over the next seven weeks I'll start heading towards that threshold. I'm going back to a place that is familiar yet I'm sure different. What I also know is that as a person with a deep faith that the voice calling me to come up is one I can trust, whose love for me knows no bounds. And while everything will reveal itself in its time, the God of surprises will not cause me hurt or harm and has equipped me to meet what lies ahead with joyful expectation.
Blessings,
Ed
I'll have to admit that today as I went public with my news about being called to a new parish the idea of being shown what comes next feels appealing. Granted what John saw in his vision would frighten most of us.
Actually I really don't want to know what comes next. That would take the adventure out of it, that would ruin the surprises that will come along the way. I know that a door stands open and over the next seven weeks I'll start heading towards that threshold. I'm going back to a place that is familiar yet I'm sure different. What I also know is that as a person with a deep faith that the voice calling me to come up is one I can trust, whose love for me knows no bounds. And while everything will reveal itself in its time, the God of surprises will not cause me hurt or harm and has equipped me to meet what lies ahead with joyful expectation.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, June 8, 2015
Reflection for June 8, 2015
"I know your works; you are neither cold nor hot. I wish that you were either cold or hot."(Revelation 3:15)
Revelation is such a strange book. I've been told it almost didn't make it in. It get's used in bizarre ways as people try to see it as a prophecy that finally gets fulfilled in their own time. Problem is that most of it is specific, like these comments to the 7 churches. The 7th one Laodicea reminds me of many places. They are reasonably comfortable, not on fire but not dead, just sort of being. Lukewarm was the word used to describe them.
When I think about my own faith life it really hasn't been hot or cold just steady. But the thought that lukewarm or that gray area might not be good enough gives me pause.
I suppose what I'd like to see is if I can know when to turn up the heat, and when to cool it down. And in between those times to keep moving.
I hope I don't get spit out, but treading water isn't always an option.
Blessings,
Ed
Revelation is such a strange book. I've been told it almost didn't make it in. It get's used in bizarre ways as people try to see it as a prophecy that finally gets fulfilled in their own time. Problem is that most of it is specific, like these comments to the 7 churches. The 7th one Laodicea reminds me of many places. They are reasonably comfortable, not on fire but not dead, just sort of being. Lukewarm was the word used to describe them.
When I think about my own faith life it really hasn't been hot or cold just steady. But the thought that lukewarm or that gray area might not be good enough gives me pause.
I suppose what I'd like to see is if I can know when to turn up the heat, and when to cool it down. And in between those times to keep moving.
I hope I don't get spit out, but treading water isn't always an option.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, June 3, 2015
Reflection for June 3, 2015
"This was the guilt of your sister Sodom:she and her daughters had pride, excess of food, and prosperous ease, but did not aid the poor and needy."(Ezekiel 16:49)
When Christians start throwing Bible verses at each other, especially around the topic of homosexuality, inevitably the story of Sodom and Gomorrah is used to show why homosexuality is bad. Look what God did to that town because the men wanted to have gay sex. The problem is that from Genesis we can't actually tell what sins that caught God's attention were. We know in the end the "men" who visited Lot were accosted by the men of Sodom. Basically they wanted Lot to send out the strangers so that they could be raped.
First off I think we can agree that gang rape, no matter whether being done male to male or male to female is really bad. Should not be tolerated in any way, shape or form. It is also true that their behavior violated hospitality codes of the ancient world, you don't do that to guests.
But Ezekiel tells us what the original problem the one that had God ready to destroy them, the wealthy and prosperous people paying no attention to the needy in their midst. Literally these people were so full, that they had more than enough. They weren't even being asked to sacrifice anything, just to share with others.
Perhaps that's the real warning we should bring from this story to our times. That God's expectations of us, who are very blessed, is to give aid to those less fortunate than ourselves. This is not the only example in scripture about this by the way. God's people get in trouble when they fail to help the poor. And that message needs to be heard even today.
Blessings,
Ed
When Christians start throwing Bible verses at each other, especially around the topic of homosexuality, inevitably the story of Sodom and Gomorrah is used to show why homosexuality is bad. Look what God did to that town because the men wanted to have gay sex. The problem is that from Genesis we can't actually tell what sins that caught God's attention were. We know in the end the "men" who visited Lot were accosted by the men of Sodom. Basically they wanted Lot to send out the strangers so that they could be raped.
First off I think we can agree that gang rape, no matter whether being done male to male or male to female is really bad. Should not be tolerated in any way, shape or form. It is also true that their behavior violated hospitality codes of the ancient world, you don't do that to guests.
But Ezekiel tells us what the original problem the one that had God ready to destroy them, the wealthy and prosperous people paying no attention to the needy in their midst. Literally these people were so full, that they had more than enough. They weren't even being asked to sacrifice anything, just to share with others.
Perhaps that's the real warning we should bring from this story to our times. That God's expectations of us, who are very blessed, is to give aid to those less fortunate than ourselves. This is not the only example in scripture about this by the way. God's people get in trouble when they fail to help the poor. And that message needs to be heard even today.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Reflection for June 2, 2015
"Although I have much to write to you, I would rather not use paper and ink; instead I hope to come to you and talk with you face to face, so that our joy may be complete."(II John;12)
No matter what kind of mediums we have at our disposal nothing beats a face to face conversation. And that includes "facetime, and video conferencing."
While I love keeping up with people via facebook and certainly communicate pretty regularly via texting and email, it lacks a certain depth. It is also hard tor read intent and hurt feelings often occur.
I like my face to face time with my friends and family. I try to create those opportunities. But in between time I'll still use the other mediums available to me. Staying in touch is what ultimately matters.
Blessings.
Ed
No matter what kind of mediums we have at our disposal nothing beats a face to face conversation. And that includes "facetime, and video conferencing."
While I love keeping up with people via facebook and certainly communicate pretty regularly via texting and email, it lacks a certain depth. It is also hard tor read intent and hurt feelings often occur.
I like my face to face time with my friends and family. I try to create those opportunities. But in between time I'll still use the other mediums available to me. Staying in touch is what ultimately matters.
Blessings.
Ed
Monday, June 1, 2015
Reflection for June 1, 2015
"I will give them one heart, and put a new spirit within them; I will remove the heart of stone from their flesh and give them a heart of flesh."(Ezekiel 11:19)
It has been a couple of months since I blogged. I have no excuse really accept perhaps I just wasn't feeling it, too much else going on that was distracting me and frankly perhaps a hardening of heart for it.
I know that biologically speaking the heart is a muscle that when it isn't working we are literally dead. But the metaphorical language of the heart as used by Ezekiel also speaks to me. Things that are soft and alive can in fact harden over time. Our attitudes towards things and people. An indifference to things that use to matter. All of these can feel like a heart of stone.
We will often talk of having a change of heart and I find that often is the Holy Spirit giving me that jump start that breaks that heart of stone, but puts back in a heart of flesh, one that beats, gets the creative juices flowing again and energizes me to do things that bring me joy.
Blessings,
Ed
It has been a couple of months since I blogged. I have no excuse really accept perhaps I just wasn't feeling it, too much else going on that was distracting me and frankly perhaps a hardening of heart for it.
I know that biologically speaking the heart is a muscle that when it isn't working we are literally dead. But the metaphorical language of the heart as used by Ezekiel also speaks to me. Things that are soft and alive can in fact harden over time. Our attitudes towards things and people. An indifference to things that use to matter. All of these can feel like a heart of stone.
We will often talk of having a change of heart and I find that often is the Holy Spirit giving me that jump start that breaks that heart of stone, but puts back in a heart of flesh, one that beats, gets the creative juices flowing again and energizes me to do things that bring me joy.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, February 20, 2015
Reflection for February 20, 2015
"The world does not understand such vulnerability."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 20)
Being vulnerable has such a negative connotation. It implies that we are at risk of something awful happening. When you here someone is vulnerable then you know you might be able to overcome them. You start to search for that weakness.
To actually proclaim one's vulnerability to risk being taken advantage of, to risk losing would take a very brave or a very trusting person. If I choose to show you were I'm weak, I hope that you might not take advantage of it.
Jesus on the cross reveals his vulnerability and also the invitation to come within the reach of that saving embrace. It is hard to imagine that there is strength in weakness, yet that is one of the greatest messages throughout scripture.
Blessings,
Ed
Being vulnerable has such a negative connotation. It implies that we are at risk of something awful happening. When you here someone is vulnerable then you know you might be able to overcome them. You start to search for that weakness.
To actually proclaim one's vulnerability to risk being taken advantage of, to risk losing would take a very brave or a very trusting person. If I choose to show you were I'm weak, I hope that you might not take advantage of it.
Jesus on the cross reveals his vulnerability and also the invitation to come within the reach of that saving embrace. It is hard to imagine that there is strength in weakness, yet that is one of the greatest messages throughout scripture.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Reflection for February 19, 2015
"Our hope our acceptance of the invitation to the banquet, is not based on the idea that we are going to be free of pain and suffering. Rather, it is based on th3 firm conviction that we will triumph over suffering."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 19)
Part of my vocation is being with people who are going through pain and suffering from time to time I wouldn't say it was my favorite part of my job, but it is one to which I am called on frequently.
Certainly in death we see being freed from pain and suffering, but the essential message of the Gospel isn't about death ending pain and suffering in a biological sense, because that will be true for people who don't have faith.
It is the triumphing over it, the belief that it doesn't have the final say that is an important component of the faith. When I go through periods of pain and suffering in my own life, it is my faith that sees me through it. And I have certainly witnessed folks drawing on their faith in the same way. And when I see that kind of faith I am inspired to keep on keeping on myself.
Blessings,
Ed
Part of my vocation is being with people who are going through pain and suffering from time to time I wouldn't say it was my favorite part of my job, but it is one to which I am called on frequently.
Certainly in death we see being freed from pain and suffering, but the essential message of the Gospel isn't about death ending pain and suffering in a biological sense, because that will be true for people who don't have faith.
It is the triumphing over it, the belief that it doesn't have the final say that is an important component of the faith. When I go through periods of pain and suffering in my own life, it is my faith that sees me through it. And I have certainly witnessed folks drawing on their faith in the same way. And when I see that kind of faith I am inspired to keep on keeping on myself.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
Reflection for February 18, 2015
"Forgiveness is granted: they need only the wisdom to accept it and repent."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 18)
There are many things in life that are hard to accept. Bad things happening to good people. Children getting sick and dying. I sometimes find it hard to accept a compliment. But I'm working on it. I've learned to just say thank you.
I wonder if I'd have the same problem accepting forgiveness? If I had done something so wrong that it needed to be forgiven, would the overwhelming sense of remorse get in the way of hearing, and then accepting any forgiveness offered.
I would hope so, because in order to truly change, to repent, I would have to make the space to accept the forgiveness which is always the first step in actually turning things around.
Blessings,
Ed
There are many things in life that are hard to accept. Bad things happening to good people. Children getting sick and dying. I sometimes find it hard to accept a compliment. But I'm working on it. I've learned to just say thank you.
I wonder if I'd have the same problem accepting forgiveness? If I had done something so wrong that it needed to be forgiven, would the overwhelming sense of remorse get in the way of hearing, and then accepting any forgiveness offered.
I would hope so, because in order to truly change, to repent, I would have to make the space to accept the forgiveness which is always the first step in actually turning things around.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Reflection for February 10, 2015
"Joy was in fact the most characteristic result of all his ministry to ragamuffins."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 10)
What brings you joy in life? I know for me it is being with people, especially people who I love and care about. I've known joy in seeing good things happen to people I care about. I experience joy sometimes just in the fact that I get the gift of another day. I experience joy when I've had a moment to commune with God and invite the presence of Christ into my day.
If our faith brings us joy, then why do I sometimes encounter people who have joy in Jesus but seem angry at everything else. How did that relationship which seems so positive build into such a negative attitude towards others? I don't get it.
Is my joy complete? Not yet, but it gets closer everyday.
Blessings,
Ed
What brings you joy in life? I know for me it is being with people, especially people who I love and care about. I've known joy in seeing good things happen to people I care about. I experience joy sometimes just in the fact that I get the gift of another day. I experience joy when I've had a moment to commune with God and invite the presence of Christ into my day.
If our faith brings us joy, then why do I sometimes encounter people who have joy in Jesus but seem angry at everything else. How did that relationship which seems so positive build into such a negative attitude towards others? I don't get it.
Is my joy complete? Not yet, but it gets closer everyday.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, February 9, 2015
Reflection for February 9, 2015
"There is no fear in love."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 9, 2015)
I will have to admit that I spent most of elementary school feeling afraid. I know I was loved by my parents and by God, it was the rest of the people that I encountered that had me afraid. I had good reason, I was an easy target for bullies and had no knowledge of how to defend myself. And eventually you get to a place where you begin to doubt the love of others.
However there came a turning point where love helped to cast out that fear. How it happened isn't as important. But the end result was a freedom to love others because I was no longer afraid.
Scripture tells us that perfect love casts out fear. And by tapping into the love of God for me, it helped me to see and appreciate more the love that others had for me as well.
And when you're no longer afraid, you can take the risks necessary to extend love to others and to receive it back.
Blessings,
Ed
I will have to admit that I spent most of elementary school feeling afraid. I know I was loved by my parents and by God, it was the rest of the people that I encountered that had me afraid. I had good reason, I was an easy target for bullies and had no knowledge of how to defend myself. And eventually you get to a place where you begin to doubt the love of others.
However there came a turning point where love helped to cast out that fear. How it happened isn't as important. But the end result was a freedom to love others because I was no longer afraid.
Scripture tells us that perfect love casts out fear. And by tapping into the love of God for me, it helped me to see and appreciate more the love that others had for me as well.
And when you're no longer afraid, you can take the risks necessary to extend love to others and to receive it back.
Blessings,
Ed
Sunday, February 8, 2015
Reflection for February 8, 2015
"Our sincere desire counts far more than any specific success or failure."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 8)
Hey at least you gave it your best shot. Sometimes that is the words I will use when talking myself through a failed attempt. If I can look myself in the face and say you did all you could do and you wanted it then nothing else matters.
I wish that were 100% true but it isn't. I can feel just as exasperated when I fail especially when I wanted to succeed and can't find out what went wrong. Yet the call is to keep striving. If something works out I suppose that's icing on the cake. And certainly in those times when something has gone according to my heart's desire, I know and can celebrate it. But again I'm not called to cling to that success.
How badly I desire something worthwhile and how many setbacks and accomplishment am I willing to endure and or enjoy to arrive?
Blessings.
Ed
Hey at least you gave it your best shot. Sometimes that is the words I will use when talking myself through a failed attempt. If I can look myself in the face and say you did all you could do and you wanted it then nothing else matters.
I wish that were 100% true but it isn't. I can feel just as exasperated when I fail especially when I wanted to succeed and can't find out what went wrong. Yet the call is to keep striving. If something works out I suppose that's icing on the cake. And certainly in those times when something has gone according to my heart's desire, I know and can celebrate it. But again I'm not called to cling to that success.
How badly I desire something worthwhile and how many setbacks and accomplishment am I willing to endure and or enjoy to arrive?
Blessings.
Ed
Saturday, February 7, 2015
Reflection for February 7, 2015
"It takes time for the water to settle. Coming to the interior stillness requires waiting. Any attempt to hasten the process only stirs up the water anew."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 7)
There are certainly times when I have felt like I'm caught in very turbulent waters. Where so much is happening all at once that I almost feel like I'm going under. But when I take time and try not to control everything all at once, it gives the least important things a chance to settle down and be given their proper place in my priorities.
And sometimes when I just let things alone for a while, that inner stillness does show up. But if I decide I need to have complete control and keep struggling to balance all these things it is amazing how fast the turbulence comes back, because I'm actually the one stirring things up.
Blessings,
Ed
There are certainly times when I have felt like I'm caught in very turbulent waters. Where so much is happening all at once that I almost feel like I'm going under. But when I take time and try not to control everything all at once, it gives the least important things a chance to settle down and be given their proper place in my priorities.
And sometimes when I just let things alone for a while, that inner stillness does show up. But if I decide I need to have complete control and keep struggling to balance all these things it is amazing how fast the turbulence comes back, because I'm actually the one stirring things up.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, February 6, 2015
Reflection for February 6, 2015
"But whenever I allow anything but tenderness and compassion to dictate my response to life.- be it self-righteous anger, moralizing, defensiveness, the pressing need to change others, carping criticism frustration at other's blindness, a sense of spiritual superiority, a gnawing hunger of vindication-I am alienated from my true self."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 6)
I try very hard to not react in these ways when dealing with other people. No matter how much they may be annoying me I try to use a more compassionate response to them. I do this because it is how I'd want to be treated when I may be that annoying human being.
I also know that when I encounter people acting in those ways, I don't really wish to be around them, and I find it very hard to take what they are saying seriously. Perhaps it comes from the act that I know that these stances are a cover for a much deeper problem. The person they are more likely at war with is themselves.
I'm reminded of the passage where Jonah says he's angry enough to die, over a bush no less. And God points out that the way of truly being like him is not the anger but the compassion. And because I've been treated compassionately by God, that is what truly being me is about.
Blessings,
Ed
I try very hard to not react in these ways when dealing with other people. No matter how much they may be annoying me I try to use a more compassionate response to them. I do this because it is how I'd want to be treated when I may be that annoying human being.
I also know that when I encounter people acting in those ways, I don't really wish to be around them, and I find it very hard to take what they are saying seriously. Perhaps it comes from the act that I know that these stances are a cover for a much deeper problem. The person they are more likely at war with is themselves.
I'm reminded of the passage where Jonah says he's angry enough to die, over a bush no less. And God points out that the way of truly being like him is not the anger but the compassion. And because I've been treated compassionately by God, that is what truly being me is about.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Reflection for February 3, 2015
"I find comfort (perhaps perverse pleasure) in knowing that the rock on which Jesus would build the Church, sank like a stone."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 3)
While Peter isn't my favorite Apostle, I do have to admire his perseverance. He gets it wrong often yet never throws in the towel. He may be the patron saint of extroverts.
But it is good to know that even people who sometimes speak when they should think. Who act impulsively with sometimes disastrous results, can still be loved and can be given another chance to try again. In fact might even go on to great things.
It is God's patience with us even when we are our own worst enemies that gives me hope.
Blessings,
Ed
While Peter isn't my favorite Apostle, I do have to admire his perseverance. He gets it wrong often yet never throws in the towel. He may be the patron saint of extroverts.
But it is good to know that even people who sometimes speak when they should think. Who act impulsively with sometimes disastrous results, can still be loved and can be given another chance to try again. In fact might even go on to great things.
It is God's patience with us even when we are our own worst enemies that gives me hope.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, February 2, 2015
Reflection for February 2, 2015
"Jesus says simply, 'Make your home in me, as I make mine in you.'(John 15:4 JB). Home is not a heavenly mansion in the afterlife but a safe place right in the midst of our anxious world...."(Reflections for Ragamuffins February 2)
It has been about a week since I blogged. I don't have any excuse really. I guess there are times when the burden is to great to even take a moment to reflect. Last week was just that kind of week, that perhaps I just needed to head to that safe place for a bit.
I know that sensing God's presence in the midst of all that was happening is probably what kept me somewhat sane. I know I will need to tap into that safe place for awhile, but I also need to get back to a normal routine and I feel that encouragement that comes from the presence and love of Christ.
Blessings,
Ed
It has been about a week since I blogged. I don't have any excuse really. I guess there are times when the burden is to great to even take a moment to reflect. Last week was just that kind of week, that perhaps I just needed to head to that safe place for a bit.
I know that sensing God's presence in the midst of all that was happening is probably what kept me somewhat sane. I know I will need to tap into that safe place for awhile, but I also need to get back to a normal routine and I feel that encouragement that comes from the presence and love of Christ.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, January 28, 2015
Reflection for January 26 , 2015
"Herein lies the genius of legalistic religion-making primary matters secondary and secondary matters primary."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 26)
When I think of what is important to me about my faith, the following come to mind, praying regularly, weekly reception of communion, regular reading and meditating on scripture and seeking opportunities to visit the lonely, clothe the naked, feed the hungry etc.
What is not important to me is focusing in on rules and making sure that others follow. Banging a drum on about rules that have no application to me at all, while ignoring or explaining away the one's that do.
Freedom in Christ, obtained through the cross, allows me to live without that checklist. It is not a do anything you want freedom by any means, but an invitation to live fully without fear of crossing some line.
Blessings,
Ed
When I think of what is important to me about my faith, the following come to mind, praying regularly, weekly reception of communion, regular reading and meditating on scripture and seeking opportunities to visit the lonely, clothe the naked, feed the hungry etc.
What is not important to me is focusing in on rules and making sure that others follow. Banging a drum on about rules that have no application to me at all, while ignoring or explaining away the one's that do.
Freedom in Christ, obtained through the cross, allows me to live without that checklist. It is not a do anything you want freedom by any means, but an invitation to live fully without fear of crossing some line.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Reflection for January 25, 2014
"Paradoxically what intrudes between God and human beings is our fastidious morality and pseudopiety."(Reflections for Ragamuffin January 25)
I've never viewed the Bible as a great book rule book, from which I get a gold star sticker at the end of each day when I manage not to violate some aspect of the rules. It certainly wouldn't dawn on me to make a big show of how holy I am.
Morality and ethics for me is not about keeping rules, but it is more by living with in the spirit and the framework which God sets forth. And because I believe that God sees and knows everything I am up to, putting up a holier than thou front, will not fool God. Being who I am, and striving to be better is what I am called to do. To be free to acknowledge when I mess up or fall short, knowing that I will be given another chance to try again.
If I'm to busy keeping score on myself and others, I will never experience the grace of God in my life. And in fact might start to get angry with God, for not helping me understand what foolishness that stance is.
Blessings,
Ed
I've never viewed the Bible as a great book rule book, from which I get a gold star sticker at the end of each day when I manage not to violate some aspect of the rules. It certainly wouldn't dawn on me to make a big show of how holy I am.
Morality and ethics for me is not about keeping rules, but it is more by living with in the spirit and the framework which God sets forth. And because I believe that God sees and knows everything I am up to, putting up a holier than thou front, will not fool God. Being who I am, and striving to be better is what I am called to do. To be free to acknowledge when I mess up or fall short, knowing that I will be given another chance to try again.
If I'm to busy keeping score on myself and others, I will never experience the grace of God in my life. And in fact might start to get angry with God, for not helping me understand what foolishness that stance is.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, January 24, 2015
Reflection for January 24, 2015
"In giving us what John Powell calls the Be-Attitudes, Jesus said that these are the attitudes that will enable you to be like him."(Reflections for Ragamuffin January 24)
Attitude is something we generally notice about other people and occasionally ourselves. People can attitudes that are positive or negative. Perhaps you've said to someone I don't need your attitude.
The Beatitudes are of course from the Sermon on the Mount. They point to those whose mind set or way of living are right with God. They flew in the face of conventional wisdom of who was truly blessed. No real surprise there coming from Jesus, who often turned the wisdom of his age on its head.
It is hard to imagine having a positive attitude given the conditions Jesus points to as being blessed. Frankly I'd find it hard to keep my head up. Yet that is what we are called to do, and with adopt Jesus' attitude towards these conditions we might be able to endure.
Blessings,
Ed
Attitude is something we generally notice about other people and occasionally ourselves. People can attitudes that are positive or negative. Perhaps you've said to someone I don't need your attitude.
The Beatitudes are of course from the Sermon on the Mount. They point to those whose mind set or way of living are right with God. They flew in the face of conventional wisdom of who was truly blessed. No real surprise there coming from Jesus, who often turned the wisdom of his age on its head.
It is hard to imagine having a positive attitude given the conditions Jesus points to as being blessed. Frankly I'd find it hard to keep my head up. Yet that is what we are called to do, and with adopt Jesus' attitude towards these conditions we might be able to endure.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, January 23, 2015
Reflection for January 23, 2015
"The wisdom to discern when it is appropriate to turn the other cheek and when it is time to raise the umbrella comes only from listening to the heartbeat of the Great Rabbi."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 23)
We all have heard Jesus say to turn the other cheek. We call him the prince of peace, here's his words to love others. And all of those are good words to heed in their proper moment. We sometimes will miss other words of Jesus, which are also ways to interact with others in their appropriate moment. "The devil is your father and you prefer to do what your father wants."(John 8:44) How much longer must I put up with you?" (Matthew 17:17) "Get behind me Satan!"(Matthew 16:23) "Stop turning my Father's house into a marketplace."(John 2:16)
Discernment of response is critical to living well in this world. What does the circumstance call for if you're going to do what Jesus would do? To constantly turn the other cheek, can lead one to be victimized or at least taken advantage of. But there are moments when letting it go is also the right response. To constantly giving the same reaction back, eye for eye mentality, usually steeped in anger is also just as unhealthy, there may be a momentary glimpse of winning, but ultimately that default position will wind up turning in on you. But there are moments when a less peaceful response is called for.
The real problem is that sometimes it isn't clear what response is called for at that moment, and you have to take a moment, breathe and pray.
Blessings,
Ed
We all have heard Jesus say to turn the other cheek. We call him the prince of peace, here's his words to love others. And all of those are good words to heed in their proper moment. We sometimes will miss other words of Jesus, which are also ways to interact with others in their appropriate moment. "The devil is your father and you prefer to do what your father wants."(John 8:44) How much longer must I put up with you?" (Matthew 17:17) "Get behind me Satan!"(Matthew 16:23) "Stop turning my Father's house into a marketplace."(John 2:16)
Discernment of response is critical to living well in this world. What does the circumstance call for if you're going to do what Jesus would do? To constantly turn the other cheek, can lead one to be victimized or at least taken advantage of. But there are moments when letting it go is also the right response. To constantly giving the same reaction back, eye for eye mentality, usually steeped in anger is also just as unhealthy, there may be a momentary glimpse of winning, but ultimately that default position will wind up turning in on you. But there are moments when a less peaceful response is called for.
The real problem is that sometimes it isn't clear what response is called for at that moment, and you have to take a moment, breathe and pray.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, January 22, 2015
Reflection for January 22, 2015
"To live peacefully without clarity or assurance, to stop grandstanding and trying to get attention."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 22)
I tend to spend a lot of my life, in the grays. Those places in life that are not always clear. Certainty and immediate answers are rarely my companion. I deep desire to no more clearly I have, but I realize that in order to get to that place you have live non anxiously in that gray area.
It can be a lonely place because you tend to not notice that others are there as well. I think this may be because we are often surrounded by the noise of grandstanding, of folks who proclaim things with such absolute certainty and rail against those of us who aren't as convinced.
There are things that I do feel certain of, love from God, my wife, my parents and my children. And it is those things that keep me centered when I'm in that gray area. I don't need to make bold statements nor do I need attention to get me through those times. But acknowledging my fellow gray area dwellers and encouraging them as well, helps to maintain my peace.
Blessings,
Ed
I tend to spend a lot of my life, in the grays. Those places in life that are not always clear. Certainty and immediate answers are rarely my companion. I deep desire to no more clearly I have, but I realize that in order to get to that place you have live non anxiously in that gray area.
It can be a lonely place because you tend to not notice that others are there as well. I think this may be because we are often surrounded by the noise of grandstanding, of folks who proclaim things with such absolute certainty and rail against those of us who aren't as convinced.
There are things that I do feel certain of, love from God, my wife, my parents and my children. And it is those things that keep me centered when I'm in that gray area. I don't need to make bold statements nor do I need attention to get me through those times. But acknowledging my fellow gray area dwellers and encouraging them as well, helps to maintain my peace.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Reflection for January 21, 2015
"But only Jesus revealed that God is a Father of incomparable tenderness, that if we take all the goodness, wisdom, and compassion of the best mothers and fathers who have ever lived, they would only be a faint shadow of the love and mercy in the heart of the redeeming God."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 21)
I can say the Our Father with the best of them. But I've never really viewed God as some divine parent. That would be way to narrow a view of God. I also know that constantly referring to God as Father, can be problematic because sometimes our earthly father's were not so great, loving etc. I realize that all that is doing is projecting our earthly experience out onto God, but we do this unintentionally and can't ignore the fact.
I will also say that it doesn't help to change it to Mother. Same problem really. The naming of God is always going to be problematic. We can actually only name our experiences of God which is not going to be the same for everyone.
For me the limiting parental language will not have the final word.
Blessings,
Ed
I can say the Our Father with the best of them. But I've never really viewed God as some divine parent. That would be way to narrow a view of God. I also know that constantly referring to God as Father, can be problematic because sometimes our earthly father's were not so great, loving etc. I realize that all that is doing is projecting our earthly experience out onto God, but we do this unintentionally and can't ignore the fact.
I will also say that it doesn't help to change it to Mother. Same problem really. The naming of God is always going to be problematic. We can actually only name our experiences of God which is not going to be the same for everyone.
For me the limiting parental language will not have the final word.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, January 20, 2015
Reflection for January 20, 2015
"Physical fasting from food is the joining of the body to the spirit's hunger for God."(Reflection for Ragamuffins January 20)
When it comes to spiritual disciplines or practices that are available to religious folks, it almost feels like a buffet. You can certainly sample different types. Some may come specifically from your tradition, others may have been taken from others traditions and adapted to your faith. I certainly have tried them all.
Fasting however is one that has never worked for me. A good part of this is that I am a food addict. I confess that. I have tried it and all I got was a splitting headache, which reminded me that I was hungry. I did not feel closer to God at all. So I have chosen not to fast, but to find other ways to encounter God and to draw nearer to him.
I can admire those who do know how to fast and find a deep spiritual connection while doing so. I would never tell someone not to fast. It just doesn't work for me. But like that buffet line image, we should try things out and find out what works for us and what we gain satisfaction from. The beauty of a buffet is you can go back to what you liked.
Blessings,
Ed
When it comes to spiritual disciplines or practices that are available to religious folks, it almost feels like a buffet. You can certainly sample different types. Some may come specifically from your tradition, others may have been taken from others traditions and adapted to your faith. I certainly have tried them all.
Fasting however is one that has never worked for me. A good part of this is that I am a food addict. I confess that. I have tried it and all I got was a splitting headache, which reminded me that I was hungry. I did not feel closer to God at all. So I have chosen not to fast, but to find other ways to encounter God and to draw nearer to him.
I can admire those who do know how to fast and find a deep spiritual connection while doing so. I would never tell someone not to fast. It just doesn't work for me. But like that buffet line image, we should try things out and find out what works for us and what we gain satisfaction from. The beauty of a buffet is you can go back to what you liked.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for January 19, 2015
"The axis of the Christian moral revolution is love, and it is the only sign given by Jesus by which the disciple would be recognized."(Reflection for Ragamuffins January 19)
There is a youth gathering song that I recall where the chorus went something like "they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love." And certainly when I'm surrounded by other Christians, especially those of my own part of the body of Christ, I sense that kind of knowledge. I can respect differences of opinion and am willing to walk a mile with that brother and sister to try and understand them.
I have noticed that it is not the easiest thing to live into with every Christian I meet. I find it hard to do with those who not only disagree with me, but have decided I need to be treated in a way that is anything but loving. Harsh words, finger pointing, questioning my faith, I get a little weary of it. I also know that those outside of the body of Christ when they see us treating each other that way, can hardly feel drawn to want to be a part of it.
Because I take my faith seriously I will continue to strive to be loving towards my neighbor. I will try to turn the other cheek even when the injury is coming from someone who is supposed to be loving to me as well.
Is it easy no. Is it the best way to be true to the mind of Christ, absolutely.
Blessings,
Ed
There is a youth gathering song that I recall where the chorus went something like "they will know we are Christians by our love, by our love." And certainly when I'm surrounded by other Christians, especially those of my own part of the body of Christ, I sense that kind of knowledge. I can respect differences of opinion and am willing to walk a mile with that brother and sister to try and understand them.
I have noticed that it is not the easiest thing to live into with every Christian I meet. I find it hard to do with those who not only disagree with me, but have decided I need to be treated in a way that is anything but loving. Harsh words, finger pointing, questioning my faith, I get a little weary of it. I also know that those outside of the body of Christ when they see us treating each other that way, can hardly feel drawn to want to be a part of it.
Because I take my faith seriously I will continue to strive to be loving towards my neighbor. I will try to turn the other cheek even when the injury is coming from someone who is supposed to be loving to me as well.
Is it easy no. Is it the best way to be true to the mind of Christ, absolutely.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, January 19, 2015
Reflection for January 18, 2015
"So the dawn of trust requires the abandonment of our craving for material and spiritual reassurances."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 18)
So what gives you the confidence to move forward in life? For many it may be feeling you have enough in the bank or investments that you could weather any storm. Maybe it is having stuff, the more stuff you're surrounded by the more secure you feel. Except the problem is you almost begin to worry that something might happen to all your stuff and then where would you be?
While material assurances and why they aren't the best things to base one's ability to get through life with is obvious I do wonder what spiritual assurances are? Partially I suppose there is those Bible verses that we've memorized to get us through tough times. There is the promise of Jesus found in scriptures which again can often sustain the believer. There of course is also that seeking of the presence of God in our lives through prayer and hopefully hearing that still small voice.
But ultimately all of these things will only work if we've begun from a place of trust. Trust in things that cannot be held, seen, or heard. And that takes a lot of courage. But without that first trust, the rest of the journey is very hard.
Blessings,
Ed
So what gives you the confidence to move forward in life? For many it may be feeling you have enough in the bank or investments that you could weather any storm. Maybe it is having stuff, the more stuff you're surrounded by the more secure you feel. Except the problem is you almost begin to worry that something might happen to all your stuff and then where would you be?
While material assurances and why they aren't the best things to base one's ability to get through life with is obvious I do wonder what spiritual assurances are? Partially I suppose there is those Bible verses that we've memorized to get us through tough times. There is the promise of Jesus found in scriptures which again can often sustain the believer. There of course is also that seeking of the presence of God in our lives through prayer and hopefully hearing that still small voice.
But ultimately all of these things will only work if we've begun from a place of trust. Trust in things that cannot be held, seen, or heard. And that takes a lot of courage. But without that first trust, the rest of the journey is very hard.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for January 17, 2015
"We rationalize and minimize our terrifying capacity to make peace with evil and thereby reject all that is not nice about us."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 17)
There's a line in the confession of sin that always gets me when I say it, "things left undone." I don't think I ignore those parts of me that are not nice, but I also don't sit in that stew and sulk. Yes I should not rationalize those not so great aspects of me, the inability to speak up all the time when something is truly evil. The fear of alienating a friend. The anger and frustration I experience with myself and others.
The Ash Wednesday liturgy has a Litany of Penitence which names a good chunk of it.
We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and
strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We
have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven.
.
We have been deaf to your call to serve, as Christ served us.
We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved
your Holy Spirit.
.
We confess to you, Lord, all our past unfaithfulness: the
pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives,
Our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation
of other people,
.
Our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those
more fortunate than ourselves,
Our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and
our dishonesty in daily life and work,
Our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to
commend the faith that is in us,
Accept our repentance, Lord, for the wrongs we have done:
for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our
indifference to injustice and cruelty,
For all false judgments, for uncharitable thoughts toward our
neighbors, and for our prejudice and contempt toward those
who differ from us,
For our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of
concern for those who come after us,
Sadly this probably leaves some stuff out. The challenge is to look deeply and work hard to stop doing these things. Yes there are things I do really well, and I need to remember them but not at the expense of ignoring the places where I still have some if not a lot of work to do.
Blessings,
Ed
There's a line in the confession of sin that always gets me when I say it, "things left undone." I don't think I ignore those parts of me that are not nice, but I also don't sit in that stew and sulk. Yes I should not rationalize those not so great aspects of me, the inability to speak up all the time when something is truly evil. The fear of alienating a friend. The anger and frustration I experience with myself and others.
The Ash Wednesday liturgy has a Litany of Penitence which names a good chunk of it.
We have not loved you with our whole heart, and mind, and
strength. We have not loved our neighbors as ourselves. We
have not forgiven others, as we have been forgiven.
.
We have been deaf to your call to serve, as Christ served us.
We have not been true to the mind of Christ. We have grieved
your Holy Spirit.
.
We confess to you, Lord, all our past unfaithfulness: the
pride, hypocrisy, and impatience of our lives,
Our self-indulgent appetites and ways, and our exploitation
of other people,
.
Our anger at our own frustration, and our envy of those
more fortunate than ourselves,
Our intemperate love of worldly goods and comforts, and
our dishonesty in daily life and work,
Our negligence in prayer and worship, and our failure to
commend the faith that is in us,
Accept our repentance, Lord, for the wrongs we have done:
for our blindness to human need and suffering, and our
indifference to injustice and cruelty,
For all false judgments, for uncharitable thoughts toward our
neighbors, and for our prejudice and contempt toward those
who differ from us,
For our waste and pollution of your creation, and our lack of
concern for those who come after us,
Sadly this probably leaves some stuff out. The challenge is to look deeply and work hard to stop doing these things. Yes there are things I do really well, and I need to remember them but not at the expense of ignoring the places where I still have some if not a lot of work to do.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, January 16, 2015
Reflection for January 16, 2015
"There could be no bargaining with God, in a petty poker table atmosphere; 'I have done this; therefore, you owe me that.' Jesus utterly destroys the juridic notion that our works demand payment in return."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 16)
In our world we expect payment for services rendered. Unless of course we volunteered to do something. Yet even there, we might expect perhaps a thank you.
We can also get into emotional manipulation, "think of all I've done for you!"
We don't do things on behalf of Christ to earn our salvation of course. We do them as a loving response to that gift. We aren't required, otherwise it wouldn't be free. But it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me not to. It just seems natural.
So I think I'll keep on seeking opportunities to serve. If I get thanked that's fine. But if I don't get any recognition from others that is also fine. The only recognition I really need is my own and God's.
Blessings,
Ed
In our world we expect payment for services rendered. Unless of course we volunteered to do something. Yet even there, we might expect perhaps a thank you.
We can also get into emotional manipulation, "think of all I've done for you!"
We don't do things on behalf of Christ to earn our salvation of course. We do them as a loving response to that gift. We aren't required, otherwise it wouldn't be free. But it doesn't make a whole lot of sense to me not to. It just seems natural.
So I think I'll keep on seeking opportunities to serve. If I get thanked that's fine. But if I don't get any recognition from others that is also fine. The only recognition I really need is my own and God's.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, January 15, 2015
Reflection for January 15, 2015
"The way of compassionate caring for others brings healing to ourselves, and compassionate caring for ourselves brings healing to others."(Reflection for Ragamuffins January 15)
When do I sense the most wholeness? Probably when I'm doing something for someone else. If I know that what I've done made a positive difference in that person's life, the occassional pity party gets avoided and certainly never takes root. I know there was a moment recently when I was really down on myself, felt useless and unwanted (not by anyone that actually mattered) when I spent the night as a host for Interfaith Hospitality Network. So I get and understand the first part.
But how does compassionate caring of myself bring healing to others? Well first off, if I'm not allowing myself to go down the rabbit hole, others do not have to bear with me and risk being brought down themselves. Two negatives rarely make a positive. If I can model good self care perhaps someone watching might follow the example and also begin to care about themselves too.
The other part of compassionate care is that gives 100% of itself. There's no half baked attempts.
So perhaps the next time you're feeling lousy in a non medical way, try doing something for someone else. And let that moment be the first steps in remembering that we are called by Christ to love God, neighbor and self. And if you ignore one of those three the others will suffer.
Blessings,
Ed
When do I sense the most wholeness? Probably when I'm doing something for someone else. If I know that what I've done made a positive difference in that person's life, the occassional pity party gets avoided and certainly never takes root. I know there was a moment recently when I was really down on myself, felt useless and unwanted (not by anyone that actually mattered) when I spent the night as a host for Interfaith Hospitality Network. So I get and understand the first part.
But how does compassionate caring of myself bring healing to others? Well first off, if I'm not allowing myself to go down the rabbit hole, others do not have to bear with me and risk being brought down themselves. Two negatives rarely make a positive. If I can model good self care perhaps someone watching might follow the example and also begin to care about themselves too.
The other part of compassionate care is that gives 100% of itself. There's no half baked attempts.
So perhaps the next time you're feeling lousy in a non medical way, try doing something for someone else. And let that moment be the first steps in remembering that we are called by Christ to love God, neighbor and self. And if you ignore one of those three the others will suffer.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for January 14, 2015
"Our human experience tells us that Jesus could not have done that if he always wore the solemn face of a mourner or the stern mask of a judge, if his face did not often crease into a smile and his whole body erupt in merry laughter."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 14)
The this that Manning refers to is people being drawn to Jesus. True we don't get a 24/7 view of Jesus, but the truly human Jesus had to have laughed if for no other reason than he hung out with people who did funny things. The overly enthusiastic Peter, how many times do you suppose caused a chuckle?
I can only imagine how many times I have made Christ laugh. Sometimes at, but not in a mocking way, sometimes with.
As humans we will be drawn to others who know how to laugh, smile and we can possibly hear from them when they aren't so merry or have something hard to say to us.
I try to be more of a laughing with others and at myself kind of guy. If you catch me being more of a downer or very stern for a long period of time, please worry about me, because something will be really wrong.
Blessings,
Ed
The this that Manning refers to is people being drawn to Jesus. True we don't get a 24/7 view of Jesus, but the truly human Jesus had to have laughed if for no other reason than he hung out with people who did funny things. The overly enthusiastic Peter, how many times do you suppose caused a chuckle?
I can only imagine how many times I have made Christ laugh. Sometimes at, but not in a mocking way, sometimes with.
As humans we will be drawn to others who know how to laugh, smile and we can possibly hear from them when they aren't so merry or have something hard to say to us.
I try to be more of a laughing with others and at myself kind of guy. If you catch me being more of a downer or very stern for a long period of time, please worry about me, because something will be really wrong.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, January 14, 2015
Reflection for January 13, 2015
"The inner life of Jesus Christ took expression in a special, vital quality of presence in the world in the most active situations."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 13)
So what's going on inside of you? It's a question we might ask ourselves regularly. Do we pay enough attention to our inner life, our spiritual and emotional health if you will? I try to be attentive to that part of me, in order to be able to do and maintain the level of activity I enjoy.
If I'm constantly doing, but rarely reflecting, I wonder if I'm not coming to close to resembling one of my favorite Loony Toons characters, the Tazmanian Devil. Spinning out of control only stopping momentarily to catch my breath.
But if all I do is pay attention to the inner life, and never get out side of myself and my own comfort zone, I'm not very useful or productive.
That relationship with Christ compels and nourishes me to do the work I've been created to do. I enjoy being present in my world, actively engaged with others. But I'm spirtually mature enough to know to recharge the batteries regularly.
Blessings,
Ed
So what's going on inside of you? It's a question we might ask ourselves regularly. Do we pay enough attention to our inner life, our spiritual and emotional health if you will? I try to be attentive to that part of me, in order to be able to do and maintain the level of activity I enjoy.
If I'm constantly doing, but rarely reflecting, I wonder if I'm not coming to close to resembling one of my favorite Loony Toons characters, the Tazmanian Devil. Spinning out of control only stopping momentarily to catch my breath.
But if all I do is pay attention to the inner life, and never get out side of myself and my own comfort zone, I'm not very useful or productive.
That relationship with Christ compels and nourishes me to do the work I've been created to do. I enjoy being present in my world, actively engaged with others. But I'm spirtually mature enough to know to recharge the batteries regularly.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, January 12, 2015
Reflection for January 12, 2015
"Procrastination only prolongs self-hatred."(Reflection for Ragamuffins January 12)
I don't hate myself. Heck I don't hate much of anything. I certainly get frustrated and angry with myself from time to time no doubt.
One of the greatest personal frustrations does arise when I put things off until it is almost too late. Or I miss opportunities by waiting. When I take charge and accept the challenges of my day and do what I need to do, I'm generally more productive and a lot less frustrated. I even deal better with failure when I know I gave it my best shot.
If I were in a self-hating mode I suppose that putting off doing something about it really would only prolong it. Hoping that it would work itself out with no effort on my part is delusional. Yes as a Christian I am called to hear Christ's words "neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more." I can use that quote because sin is not only the things we do, but the things left undone, the things put off or avoided. And it is those times that I need to hear those words of invitation and get back on track.
Blessings,
Ed
I don't hate myself. Heck I don't hate much of anything. I certainly get frustrated and angry with myself from time to time no doubt.
One of the greatest personal frustrations does arise when I put things off until it is almost too late. Or I miss opportunities by waiting. When I take charge and accept the challenges of my day and do what I need to do, I'm generally more productive and a lot less frustrated. I even deal better with failure when I know I gave it my best shot.
If I were in a self-hating mode I suppose that putting off doing something about it really would only prolong it. Hoping that it would work itself out with no effort on my part is delusional. Yes as a Christian I am called to hear Christ's words "neither do I condemn you, go and sin no more." I can use that quote because sin is not only the things we do, but the things left undone, the things put off or avoided. And it is those times that I need to hear those words of invitation and get back on track.
Blessings,
Ed
Sunday, January 11, 2015
Reflection for January 11, 2015
"If our faith is going to be criticized let it be for the right reasons."(Reflections for Ragamuffin January 11)
I'm not really a big fan of having my faith criticized. I don't mean the Christian faith, but how I practice and live out my faith. I certainly can listen to and engage criticism of Faith, because I might have an answer to that. And I can engage it when I'm not feeling dismissed.
But when my personal faith is under critique my defenses do go up. It may be because the criticism is usually coming from a fellow believer who doesn't talk about or practice their faith in the same way I do. And comes to the conclusion that I'm not a Christian. The weird thing is I'm probably being criticized for the right things. The belief that Christ calls us to service of others. That worship can be joyful, heartfelt and traditional. That my belief in Christ is not threatened by others not believing. That my faith is big enough to allow for all sorts and conditions of people to share it.
If I get lethargic in my faith, I hope a fellow pilgrim will give me a jolt and get me moving again. And I hope that I can stay true to my relationship with Christ as I have come to live it, whether others see it that way or not.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm not really a big fan of having my faith criticized. I don't mean the Christian faith, but how I practice and live out my faith. I certainly can listen to and engage criticism of Faith, because I might have an answer to that. And I can engage it when I'm not feeling dismissed.
But when my personal faith is under critique my defenses do go up. It may be because the criticism is usually coming from a fellow believer who doesn't talk about or practice their faith in the same way I do. And comes to the conclusion that I'm not a Christian. The weird thing is I'm probably being criticized for the right things. The belief that Christ calls us to service of others. That worship can be joyful, heartfelt and traditional. That my belief in Christ is not threatened by others not believing. That my faith is big enough to allow for all sorts and conditions of people to share it.
If I get lethargic in my faith, I hope a fellow pilgrim will give me a jolt and get me moving again. And I hope that I can stay true to my relationship with Christ as I have come to live it, whether others see it that way or not.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, January 10, 2015
Reflection for January 10, 2015
"We first experience beauty usually in the things that surround us. Sometimes in sensible things, other times in the transparncye of a look or a glance that reveals a soul full of light.(Reflections for Ragamuffin January 10)
I have in my life seen some very beautiful things. I lucked out in getting to travel around this country as a child on summer vacations. We live in an amazing part of the world. I hope to as grow older see some more of the beauty of this planet of ours.
I have also known some truly beautiful people and still know some. Folks who are beautiful on the inside and outside. There are folks of course who are beautiful in one and not the other, and it is a greater pleasure to encounter the people who are beautiful on the inside.
There are times even when almost all of us are able to even exhibit moments of beauty. If we're blessed we can do it more than once.
I think it is just as important to be able to see the beauty. When I choose to look for that rather than focus on the ugly, the wrong, I have a greater chance of being more beautiful myself.
God created us in God's image. That image should be beautiful! And since it is that image we share with others we are called to see their beauty as well.
Blessings,
Ed
I have in my life seen some very beautiful things. I lucked out in getting to travel around this country as a child on summer vacations. We live in an amazing part of the world. I hope to as grow older see some more of the beauty of this planet of ours.
I have also known some truly beautiful people and still know some. Folks who are beautiful on the inside and outside. There are folks of course who are beautiful in one and not the other, and it is a greater pleasure to encounter the people who are beautiful on the inside.
There are times even when almost all of us are able to even exhibit moments of beauty. If we're blessed we can do it more than once.
I think it is just as important to be able to see the beauty. When I choose to look for that rather than focus on the ugly, the wrong, I have a greater chance of being more beautiful myself.
God created us in God's image. That image should be beautiful! And since it is that image we share with others we are called to see their beauty as well.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, January 9, 2015
Reflection for January 9, 2015
"What would God say? What is the feedback from your creator?"(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 9)
I'm a regular practitioner of prayer. I tend to be consistent with saying Morning Prayer. I note that my prayers in the morning tend to be about things that I anticipate happening during the day, and always a prayer for personal motivation and focus.
I wonder though what praying at the end of the day would look like. Would it be more confessional. Here's the things I've done (good or bad), here's the things left undone (good or bad). I know that in the end the final prayer would be give me the strength to do better tomorrow or to keep it going.
I have a hunch that the feedback for me from God would be much like the parts of Revelation when the different churches get addressed. There would be some "well done good and faithful servant," moments, but there also would be some you are "a white washed tomb."
The feedback I would also know will never be, as long as I'm on my earthly pilgrimage, the final answer. It will be an invitation to try again, to keep going, and to be always honest in the self assessment of how this faith journey is playing itself out.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm a regular practitioner of prayer. I tend to be consistent with saying Morning Prayer. I note that my prayers in the morning tend to be about things that I anticipate happening during the day, and always a prayer for personal motivation and focus.
I wonder though what praying at the end of the day would look like. Would it be more confessional. Here's the things I've done (good or bad), here's the things left undone (good or bad). I know that in the end the final prayer would be give me the strength to do better tomorrow or to keep it going.
I have a hunch that the feedback for me from God would be much like the parts of Revelation when the different churches get addressed. There would be some "well done good and faithful servant," moments, but there also would be some you are "a white washed tomb."
The feedback I would also know will never be, as long as I'm on my earthly pilgrimage, the final answer. It will be an invitation to try again, to keep going, and to be always honest in the self assessment of how this faith journey is playing itself out.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Reflection for January 8, 2015
"Authentic prayer calls us to rigorous honesty, to come out of hiding, to quit trying to seem impressive, to acknowledge our total dependence on God and the reality of our sinful situation."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 8)
Prayer has been defined as a conversation with God. When I think of the best conversations I've had with others including God, they are those where I could truly be me. Where I could bare my soul, the hurts, the let downs, and hear back a reality check.
Rigorous honesty involves a very deep self examination I would think. It doesn't allow for excuses or pity parties. The trust that I have in the person listening allows me to not have to hide. Here's who I really am, help me to accept it and to amend or improve it. I do think an honest self examination can include seeing where we get it right. But we don't need to get to self congratulatory but at least know of the good things that we do.
My dependence on God is that I trust that I will be listened to and encouraged to be honest in my self assessment. And to seek further strength and guidance as I strive to be all that God wants me to be.
Blessings,
Ed
Prayer has been defined as a conversation with God. When I think of the best conversations I've had with others including God, they are those where I could truly be me. Where I could bare my soul, the hurts, the let downs, and hear back a reality check.
Rigorous honesty involves a very deep self examination I would think. It doesn't allow for excuses or pity parties. The trust that I have in the person listening allows me to not have to hide. Here's who I really am, help me to accept it and to amend or improve it. I do think an honest self examination can include seeing where we get it right. But we don't need to get to self congratulatory but at least know of the good things that we do.
My dependence on God is that I trust that I will be listened to and encouraged to be honest in my self assessment. And to seek further strength and guidance as I strive to be all that God wants me to be.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Reflection for January 7, 2014
"Peace and joy go a -begging when the heart of a Christian pants for one sign after another of God's merciful love. Nothing is taken for granted, and nothing is received with gratitude. The troubled eyes and furrowed brow of the anxious believer are the symptoms of a heart where trust has not found a home."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 7)
When I reflect on my own spiritual and emotional state, I would say that for the most part I am usually in a good place. I experience peace and joy. I generally believe good things will happen for me and am happy with what I have. I am rarely anxious.
But there are times when none of the above is true. And interestingly enough I find that they all go at once. When I'm conflicted I feel sad. I begin to doubt that anything will go right and I start to notice what others have that I don't. And I begin to get anxious about whether any of it will turn around.
What I find keeps me from having those moments take total control for ever is that nagging little voice that keeps saying trust me, I'm here even in this valley period. Don't look for flashy signs for this. You'll know it to be true when you see the end result. You won't see very clearly with troubled eyes, a furrowed brow will only mar your outward appearance. Find room within yourself to trust.
Is that easy to do when everything seems to be caving in. Certainly not. But what keeps it all from collapsing is that trust.
Blessings,
Ed
When I reflect on my own spiritual and emotional state, I would say that for the most part I am usually in a good place. I experience peace and joy. I generally believe good things will happen for me and am happy with what I have. I am rarely anxious.
But there are times when none of the above is true. And interestingly enough I find that they all go at once. When I'm conflicted I feel sad. I begin to doubt that anything will go right and I start to notice what others have that I don't. And I begin to get anxious about whether any of it will turn around.
What I find keeps me from having those moments take total control for ever is that nagging little voice that keeps saying trust me, I'm here even in this valley period. Don't look for flashy signs for this. You'll know it to be true when you see the end result. You won't see very clearly with troubled eyes, a furrowed brow will only mar your outward appearance. Find room within yourself to trust.
Is that easy to do when everything seems to be caving in. Certainly not. But what keeps it all from collapsing is that trust.
Blessings,
Ed
Tuesday, January 6, 2015
Reflection for January 6, 2014
"Fringe people stay on the fringe, marginal men remain on the periphery."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 6)
Today is the Feast of the Epiphany, you know the 3 Kings, wise men, magi whatever you wish to call them. Today is there big moment. In the grand scheme of the life of Jesus, not really all that huge. Only Matthew mentions them and only tradition names them. Fun hymns mention them. But for the most part they are about as fringe and marginal as you can get. But their appearance is important in laying out some deep theological statements about Jesus.
In our own lives we have significant people who have impacted who we are no doubt. But there are also folks who really weren't major players in our lives but even the brief period of time that they were a part of our lives has an impact. I can think of several people who are fringe folks in my life. And yet they left a mark, sometimes positively sometimes negatively.
It is probably true that we also have been a person remaining on the periphery of others lives. Maybe not making a huge difference or impact, but the encounter is still there.
The challenge in growing as a person is to perhaps not just stay on the fringes but to engage the world fully. Not to remain out on the margins looking in but to enter and take our place on the stage of life.
Blessings,
Ed
Today is the Feast of the Epiphany, you know the 3 Kings, wise men, magi whatever you wish to call them. Today is there big moment. In the grand scheme of the life of Jesus, not really all that huge. Only Matthew mentions them and only tradition names them. Fun hymns mention them. But for the most part they are about as fringe and marginal as you can get. But their appearance is important in laying out some deep theological statements about Jesus.
In our own lives we have significant people who have impacted who we are no doubt. But there are also folks who really weren't major players in our lives but even the brief period of time that they were a part of our lives has an impact. I can think of several people who are fringe folks in my life. And yet they left a mark, sometimes positively sometimes negatively.
It is probably true that we also have been a person remaining on the periphery of others lives. Maybe not making a huge difference or impact, but the encounter is still there.
The challenge in growing as a person is to perhaps not just stay on the fringes but to engage the world fully. Not to remain out on the margins looking in but to enter and take our place on the stage of life.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, January 5, 2015
Reflection for January 5, 2015
"In times of opposition, rejection, hatred, and danger he retreated to that hiding place where he was loved."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 5)
One of the things I don't have at the moment is a place to retreat to. A part of me envies folks who have an escape pod, a place to go when they just need to recharge, or renew. When I'm feeling overwhelmed I try to reach out and at least find a friend to confide in. I may take a walk. I often retreat to a place of prayer.
I also know that in those times when I feel like singing the worm song, "nobody likes me, everybody hates me, I guess I'll go eat worms." I remind myself that this isn't entirely true. I have a wife who loves me, children who love me, and God who loves me. That doesn't mean that I might not face opposition, rejection, hatred or danger in my life. But it does mean that they don't have the last say.
Blessings,
Ed
One of the things I don't have at the moment is a place to retreat to. A part of me envies folks who have an escape pod, a place to go when they just need to recharge, or renew. When I'm feeling overwhelmed I try to reach out and at least find a friend to confide in. I may take a walk. I often retreat to a place of prayer.
I also know that in those times when I feel like singing the worm song, "nobody likes me, everybody hates me, I guess I'll go eat worms." I remind myself that this isn't entirely true. I have a wife who loves me, children who love me, and God who loves me. That doesn't mean that I might not face opposition, rejection, hatred or danger in my life. But it does mean that they don't have the last say.
Blessings,
Ed
Sunday, January 4, 2015
Reflection for January 4, 2014
""If the question were put to you, 'Do you honestly believe that God likes you?'-not loves you because theologically he must-how would you answer?"(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 4)
I've always been convinced that there is a huge difference between like and love. I know that I will always love my sons. I can't guarantee that I will always like everything about them. I'm sure this is true for anyone we say we love. There will be times when we or they disappoint, and we may not like the action they have taken.
While I firmly believe that God loves me unconditionally, it is a much harder proposition to live into being liked all the time. I am sure that I have fallen short more than once. But it is that loving part that allows for the second chances. It is the loving part that invites me to try harder to have God like me.
And this is true of my relationships as well. It is my love for others that gets me passed when I don't like what is happening. That helps me to confront and deal with the person in a loving way that invites the reconciliation. It is perhaps knowing that I am loved that allows me to hear when I've disappointed someone.
Love doesn't overlook it helps us overcome.
Blessings,
Ed
I've always been convinced that there is a huge difference between like and love. I know that I will always love my sons. I can't guarantee that I will always like everything about them. I'm sure this is true for anyone we say we love. There will be times when we or they disappoint, and we may not like the action they have taken.
While I firmly believe that God loves me unconditionally, it is a much harder proposition to live into being liked all the time. I am sure that I have fallen short more than once. But it is that loving part that allows for the second chances. It is the loving part that invites me to try harder to have God like me.
And this is true of my relationships as well. It is my love for others that gets me passed when I don't like what is happening. That helps me to confront and deal with the person in a loving way that invites the reconciliation. It is perhaps knowing that I am loved that allows me to hear when I've disappointed someone.
Love doesn't overlook it helps us overcome.
Blessings,
Ed
Saturday, January 3, 2015
Reflection for January 3, 2015
"Stubbornly to stand still when the Lord is clearly challenging us to growth is hardheartedness, infidelity, and a dangerous lack of trust. But to start trekking across the desert impulsively without the guidance of the cloud and the fire is reckless folly."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 3)
It seems to me that with each new year there is always the possibility of a radical change or shift in one's life. Sometimes we can plan for it, perhaps we've been working towards it or at least anticipating it. If we're good about our prayer time we may even have a good sense that God might be calling us to that change.
The resistance to and the fear of this change is all of the things mentioned above. It is hardheartedness because it means we're refusing to hear. It is infidelity because we aren't being true to the one calling us. And it shows a lack of trust because we won't move do to fear.
While I fully believe we should be open to where the spirit may be calling, we need to be equally clear that it is the spirit doing the calling and not our own selfishness or boredom. When we mistake the call of God and go full speed ahead, it usually doesn't turn out so well. And we are left sorting through the wreckage trying to figure out how we got it so wrong.
So if you are longing for change or believe it is coming try to do so with an open heart and mind. Being faithful to God and trusting in his presence throughout. We always need to know when to boldly go forth, but we also need to know when to sit tight for a while.
Blessings,
Ed
It seems to me that with each new year there is always the possibility of a radical change or shift in one's life. Sometimes we can plan for it, perhaps we've been working towards it or at least anticipating it. If we're good about our prayer time we may even have a good sense that God might be calling us to that change.
The resistance to and the fear of this change is all of the things mentioned above. It is hardheartedness because it means we're refusing to hear. It is infidelity because we aren't being true to the one calling us. And it shows a lack of trust because we won't move do to fear.
While I fully believe we should be open to where the spirit may be calling, we need to be equally clear that it is the spirit doing the calling and not our own selfishness or boredom. When we mistake the call of God and go full speed ahead, it usually doesn't turn out so well. And we are left sorting through the wreckage trying to figure out how we got it so wrong.
So if you are longing for change or believe it is coming try to do so with an open heart and mind. Being faithful to God and trusting in his presence throughout. We always need to know when to boldly go forth, but we also need to know when to sit tight for a while.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, January 2, 2015
Reflection for January 2, 2015
"Jesus reveals to us a God who is not indifferent to human agony, a God who fully embraces the human condition and plunges into the thick of our human struggle."(Reflections for Ragamuffins January 2.)
Nobody knows what it is like to be someone else. We sometimes don't even know ourselves very well. We may think that we know a lot about another person, but we really only know what they choose to let us know and that may not be completely honest.
One of the most wonderful aspects of following Christ for me is that God really does know what its like to be human. The incarnation makes it easier for me to relate with that God. I am dealt with compassionately because God gets it. I'm given another chance regularly because God wants me to be the best I can be.
God knows how to be present with me on my best days and with me on my worst and everything in between. God doesn't make my life easier, God just eases the burden.
Blessings,
Ed
Nobody knows what it is like to be someone else. We sometimes don't even know ourselves very well. We may think that we know a lot about another person, but we really only know what they choose to let us know and that may not be completely honest.
One of the most wonderful aspects of following Christ for me is that God really does know what its like to be human. The incarnation makes it easier for me to relate with that God. I am dealt with compassionately because God gets it. I'm given another chance regularly because God wants me to be the best I can be.
God knows how to be present with me on my best days and with me on my worst and everything in between. God doesn't make my life easier, God just eases the burden.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, January 1, 2015
Reflection for January 1, 2014
I'm going to use a new source for my reflections in 2015. Reflections for Ragamuffin: Daily Devotions by Brennan Manning. I did something similar a few years ago with a Richard Rohr book.
"Remember Atlas who carries the world? We have Christian Atlases who mistakenly carry the burden of trying to deserve God's love."(Reflections for Ragamuffin January 1)
What an image. A Christian Atlas. Someone who believes the weight of the world is on their shoulders. Every problem out there is somehow theirs to bear. All of us have burdens no doubt. But becoming Atlases should not be one. Yes there are problems out there that I must pay attention to. But I am not called to be a superhero. In some ways being an Atlas is a little narcissistic. Notice me please, I'm the world's beast of burden.
Atlas for a little while put the world down if I recall. And that is something we all should do from time to time. Put the burden down. We don't gain access to God's love by taking on the world's burdens. We address the burdens we can because we've been given God's love unconditionally.
Blessings this year.
Ed
"Remember Atlas who carries the world? We have Christian Atlases who mistakenly carry the burden of trying to deserve God's love."
What an image. A Christian Atlas. Someone who believes the weight of the world is on their shoulders. Every problem out there is somehow theirs to bear. All of us have burdens no doubt. But becoming Atlases should not be one. Yes there are problems out there that I must pay attention to. But I am not called to be a superhero. In some ways being an Atlas is a little narcissistic. Notice me please, I'm the world's beast of burden.
Atlas for a little while put the world down if I recall. And that is something we all should do from time to time. Put the burden down. We don't gain access to God's love by taking on the world's burdens. We address the burdens we can because we've been given God's love unconditionally.
Blessings this year.
Ed
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