The family just finished a wonderful week at Westminster Spires church camp near Red Lodge, Montana. It's owned by the Yellowstone Presbytery. Mikey and Danny were there are campers. Joleanna and I attended as vacationing adults, gleefully leaving the care of our children to others! We did spend time with them during the week, in worship and other activities at camp.
It is also a week of transition. Joleanna is able to return to work this week -- working Thursday, Friday, and Saturday night shifts at Billings Clinic. She's happy to be back at work, although the patient drug system has forgotten who she is and other nurses have to help her get meds out.
Mikey and I worked the concession stand the the Rosebud County Fair for a 2 and 1/2 hour shift today. I worked the cash register. Mikey helped with pulled pork sandwiches, pretzels, nachos, hot dogs, and "walking" tacos (taco mixed in a bag of Doritos or Fritos). Danny came, too, but couldn't stop touching his face with his gloved hand. He spent the rest of the time playing games on my phone.
I caught up with Beau Blake at the Fair. I haven't seen much of him or his family since they moved to the other side of the world to work a new piece of land for their ranch. Beau was on the search committee that called me hear as Pastor and I reminded him that in February I'll start my 4th year in Hysham. I told him it was his fault; he said he would gladly accept the blame.
The boys and I are going to a Dice Masters Age of Ultron Rainbow Tournament tomorrow at Hastings in Billings. Two weeks ago I won the Justice League Rainbow Tournament there.
The cats and dog are happy we're back... have gathered around, and are waiting for me to go to bed. Hint, hint.
Odds 'n ends about my life as a husband, father, dog owner, game master, and counselor.
Saturday, July 18, 2015
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Who Watches the Blogger?
When Joleanna and I were married, I volunteered to put away all of the frivolous items I had attained over my lifetime. This included such silly things as Star Trek starship miniatures, superhero toys and games, my TARDIS, numerous books about role-playing games, and other so-called "collectable" items. They were a waste of time and money.
[Looks around]
Okay, Joleanna has left the room...
The truth is, she made me put away those things!
And guess what? Now that we have two little boys, I get to put them back out again!
YES!!!
The simple fact is I love having two little boys. And not just because I can play with my toys again. I mean, they can play with my toys now. Well, you know what I mean.
I love sharing life with them, and lessons from life. Simple things like don't touch the stove when it is hot. More difficult things like riding a bike. And now, we have moved into questions about God. And that is the easy stuff... wait 'til the discussion turns to girls!
I like sharing with them the TV shows I watched growing up - not the stuff on TV now. We watch the Adam West Batman, George Reeve and Christopher Reeves Superman, classic (and new) Doctor Who, Match Game, The Six Million Dollar Man (they love Big Foot), and of course, Star Trek.
I enjoy telling them stories, made up off the top of my head. Their favorite is of Thomas the Tank Engine falling down a hole (with sound effects). Superman, Mr. Spock, The Doctor, and Steve Austin all take turns in the stories trying to rescue Thomas. Sometimes Spider-Man shows up, too. Sir Topham Hat is upset with Thomas, but the hero-of-the-day explains the situation and all is well on the Island of Sodor.
I look forward to reading with them. You can guess what we read, I'm sure. Added to the mix is Scooby-Doo, Sonic the Hedgehog, Justice League, and Young Justice.
I am fascinated by what captures their interest. Mikey loves Star Wars, even though I have shown only a minor interest in it. Danny loves Doctor Who, although I really tried to turn him into a Trekkie instead.
I have fun playing with them, whether is wrestling on the floor, tickling them, fighting with light sabers or sonic screwdrivers, or outside play baseball, basketball, or football. The boys are into sports. For Mikey, it is basketball, and for Danny, football. They love to do gymnastics and acrobatic moves, often scaring their mother or grandmother in the process.
I am proud that both boys have a love for animals (particularly our menagerie of pets), an understanding of the importance of nature (no littering here), and a desire to share their knowledge with others (just ask Danny about the queen ant).
I know that because the boys both have ADHD they can be a handful sometimes. Despite that, they are generally well-behaved, well-mannered, and well on their way to becoming perfect gentlemen. Danny has a gentle, caring spirit, and Mikey naturally sympathizes with others.
I also know that I am biased in this situation, so no need to point that out to me.
[Looks around]
Okay, Joleanna has left the room...
The truth is, she made me put away those things!
And guess what? Now that we have two little boys, I get to put them back out again!
YES!!!
The simple fact is I love having two little boys. And not just because I can play with my toys again. I mean, they can play with my toys now. Well, you know what I mean.
I love sharing life with them, and lessons from life. Simple things like don't touch the stove when it is hot. More difficult things like riding a bike. And now, we have moved into questions about God. And that is the easy stuff... wait 'til the discussion turns to girls!
I like sharing with them the TV shows I watched growing up - not the stuff on TV now. We watch the Adam West Batman, George Reeve and Christopher Reeves Superman, classic (and new) Doctor Who, Match Game, The Six Million Dollar Man (they love Big Foot), and of course, Star Trek.
I enjoy telling them stories, made up off the top of my head. Their favorite is of Thomas the Tank Engine falling down a hole (with sound effects). Superman, Mr. Spock, The Doctor, and Steve Austin all take turns in the stories trying to rescue Thomas. Sometimes Spider-Man shows up, too. Sir Topham Hat is upset with Thomas, but the hero-of-the-day explains the situation and all is well on the Island of Sodor.
I look forward to reading with them. You can guess what we read, I'm sure. Added to the mix is Scooby-Doo, Sonic the Hedgehog, Justice League, and Young Justice.
I am fascinated by what captures their interest. Mikey loves Star Wars, even though I have shown only a minor interest in it. Danny loves Doctor Who, although I really tried to turn him into a Trekkie instead.
I have fun playing with them, whether is wrestling on the floor, tickling them, fighting with light sabers or sonic screwdrivers, or outside play baseball, basketball, or football. The boys are into sports. For Mikey, it is basketball, and for Danny, football. They love to do gymnastics and acrobatic moves, often scaring their mother or grandmother in the process.
I am proud that both boys have a love for animals (particularly our menagerie of pets), an understanding of the importance of nature (no littering here), and a desire to share their knowledge with others (just ask Danny about the queen ant).
I know that because the boys both have ADHD they can be a handful sometimes. Despite that, they are generally well-behaved, well-mannered, and well on their way to becoming perfect gentlemen. Danny has a gentle, caring spirit, and Mikey naturally sympathizes with others.
I also know that I am biased in this situation, so no need to point that out to me.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
That Magic Touch
I visited a couple of church members in their homes today.
It is always exciting to see how others' houses compare for cleanliness, especially since they usually do not have children at home and we do. I think it is an unfair comparison, but interesting none-the-less. Out of respect for those visited, I'll keep my assessment to myself.
More important was the content of the visit. I have tried to share with the church's Session, adult Sunday school class, and other groups my ideas about visitation. These certainly are not unique to me, and I make no claim on their creation. I learned this from others.
"Pastor, what do you hope to get out of this visit?" a deacon asked me once. This was soon after I arrived in Hysham.
"A friend," I replied.
One source for this idea is Geroge Hunter's The Celtic Way of Evangelism. It proposes an emphasis on community - communal life, really - and the creation of an organic relationship that leads towards "growing" Christians rather than "converting" them.
This idea was a part of the ministry of my former pastor, teacher, and mentor, Dr. Richard C. Boyd. Dr. Boyd always stressed the importance of relationships. Relationships are the foundation of any organization, but especially the church.
And I am reminded of another catchy phrase the seems appropriate: "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
So I am on a relationship building campaign in a church that is starved for pastoral attention. Sounds like a good combination, except that one or two are looking for ulterior motives. Maybe it is commonplace in today's world to expect me to have "an agenda," some reason for doing whatever I am doing, besides the stated or obvious reasons. Slowly I am winning people over... not winning souls, but friends.
And now that we're friends, who knows what might happen?
Back to today. I was visiting, and my church member's printer was not working. Others had looked at it, but to no avail. The plan was a trip to Billings in the afternoon for repair or replacement. I turned the printer off, then on, and then off and on again. And suddenly, the printer worked! I did not really do anything to it. Kind of like Fonzy beating his fist on the record player and it starts up.
It is not the first time I have helped someone in Hysham with their computer problems. My original degree, way-back-when, was in Business Computer Programming, and I have tried to keep with the times in computer software and basic repair. It has been helpful over the years. And it is another way to make friends - for the sake of having a friend and no other reason.
It has been a good day, and it is nice to know I still have the touch.
It is always exciting to see how others' houses compare for cleanliness, especially since they usually do not have children at home and we do. I think it is an unfair comparison, but interesting none-the-less. Out of respect for those visited, I'll keep my assessment to myself.
More important was the content of the visit. I have tried to share with the church's Session, adult Sunday school class, and other groups my ideas about visitation. These certainly are not unique to me, and I make no claim on their creation. I learned this from others.
"Pastor, what do you hope to get out of this visit?" a deacon asked me once. This was soon after I arrived in Hysham.
"A friend," I replied.
One source for this idea is Geroge Hunter's The Celtic Way of Evangelism. It proposes an emphasis on community - communal life, really - and the creation of an organic relationship that leads towards "growing" Christians rather than "converting" them.
This idea was a part of the ministry of my former pastor, teacher, and mentor, Dr. Richard C. Boyd. Dr. Boyd always stressed the importance of relationships. Relationships are the foundation of any organization, but especially the church.
And I am reminded of another catchy phrase the seems appropriate: "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care."
So I am on a relationship building campaign in a church that is starved for pastoral attention. Sounds like a good combination, except that one or two are looking for ulterior motives. Maybe it is commonplace in today's world to expect me to have "an agenda," some reason for doing whatever I am doing, besides the stated or obvious reasons. Slowly I am winning people over... not winning souls, but friends.
And now that we're friends, who knows what might happen?
Back to today. I was visiting, and my church member's printer was not working. Others had looked at it, but to no avail. The plan was a trip to Billings in the afternoon for repair or replacement. I turned the printer off, then on, and then off and on again. And suddenly, the printer worked! I did not really do anything to it. Kind of like Fonzy beating his fist on the record player and it starts up.
It is not the first time I have helped someone in Hysham with their computer problems. My original degree, way-back-when, was in Business Computer Programming, and I have tried to keep with the times in computer software and basic repair. It has been helpful over the years. And it is another way to make friends - for the sake of having a friend and no other reason.
It has been a good day, and it is nice to know I still have the touch.
Monday, September 23, 2013
Monday, Monday
My typical Monday is to spend the morning helping get the boys ready for school, and then go to Forsyth after lunch to visit at the assisted living center and the nursing home.
There's nothing that compares to the joy of sharing my music with others, especially those who may not get out much. My visit is anticipated each week by me and the residents. The songs I play are all from a hymnbook.
This led to an interesting situation one week. I was called to fill in for a pastor that could not be there on Sunday. When I arrived I started playing out of the hymnbook like I usually would. But then something strange happened -- someone came up to me and said even though it was church time they want me to play some country music. Which I don't do. And then the same thing happened again twice more with different people. So I was encouraged to play out of the hymnbook and sing even louder, and I was really getting into it. I had a great time and I'm sorry that those two or three people who wanted to hear the country music didn't like what I was playing. I know there were many others that did enjoy the music that day. The next day the activities director called to apologize. She said they knew it was church time and shouldn't have asked for different music.
That one incident aside, my visits are very enjoyable. I love seeing the people and they look forward to seeing me. Some of them I pray with and others I'll just sit and chat with them.
There's a hospital at the other end of the nursing home and I will visit there as well. The nurses seem to look forward to my visits as well and they enjoy the music and time that I spend with the residents.
Mondays are special. I get to share my gift of music and love for God with some of the people who need it the most.
How do you answer a 5-year-old?
“Daddy, why did God let Jesus die?” Danny asked.
I suppose I could wax theological here. I have been reviewing class lecture notes on atonement theory ever since the controversy over the exclusion of “In Christ Alone” from the new Presbyterian hymnal.
So, there are four main theories about the atonement:
- ransom
- satisfaction
- penal-substitution
- moral influence
The line in “In Christ Alone” that caused a problem is “the wrath of God was satisfied.” The hymnal editors wanted to replace that line with the words “the love of God was magnified.” So, the original line is linked to the satisfaction theory, and the proposed change is… well, what is it? Isn’t it sort of all of them? Seriously, don’t all of these theories, in one way or another, show that “the love of God was magnified”?
Some Presbyterians are upset over the song being left out; even some on the committee wanted to include the song, but with the changed lyrics.
I’ve done a good job of avoiding the original question. What do I say to a 5-year-old who asks, “Daddy, why did God let Jesus die?” I was able to deflect the question by changing the subject. But Danny is no slouch – the question will come up again.
The best I can come up with is, “It was part of God’s plan.”
How would you answer a 5-year-old?
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Fun, fun, fun in the sun, sun, sun...
Photo by Laura Reich
What a great time we all had in the Taylor Cup softball game! The graduate students beat the undergrads by 2 runs... despite Amanda Matthews trying to skew the score in the undergrads favor.
Yours truly served as the impartial, can't-be-rattled umpire. Despite the threat of an "F" from Dr. Cogdill and Dr. Jones (they were just joking, right?), I called the game as fairly as possible.
Add to that a little sun burn and a voice blown by yelling "You're out!" several times and it was a blast!
Now I just hope my voice recovers before my recital this Saturday...
More pictures from the game can be seen here.
Tuesday, April 8, 2008
Arby's is on fire
The Arby's in New Bern, NC burned two Sundays ago. I was on my way to church and saw the smoke and flames around 8:30 a.m. I felt no need to call 911 as there were several people with cell phones standing outside. The McDonald's behind Arby's was engulfed in smoke from the fire. The fire has been ruled accidental.I shared in our church's morning assembly that "Arby's is on fire." Some snickers followed.
"You mean it's 'on fire' on fire or 'they're having a good sale' on fire?"
"'On fire' on fire," I answered.
It was a sad scene. Arby's is my favorite place to eat.
I was introduced to Arby's many years ago by my Great Uncle Doc. It was always a special treat to ride with Uncle Doc into Jacksonville, the location (for a long time) of the only Arby's in the area.
The area around the store is now fenced in. Police regualrly patrol the area to keep people safe. I have heard no offical word about rebuilding.
Ah... roast beef. There's nothing else like it.
But at the Arby's in New Bern, it might be a bit well done.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Bulletins
I spent several years "doing" church bulletins. Here is a listing of some famous (or infamous) mistakes that are often circulated. I've added my thoughts after each one.
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals. Cost of the meals: $0. Knowing they were offered anyway: priceless.
----------------------------------------------------------
The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.' I think he went down over there!
-------------------- ------ --------------------------------
Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 PM in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King. Wasn't that done 2,000 years ago?
----------------------------------------------------------
Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands. Ouch.
----------------------------------------------------------
The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict. But was it an unforeseen conflict?
----------------------------------------------------------
Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you. Right back at you!
---------------------------------------------------------
Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help. One of the church's strengths, no doubt.
---------------------------------------------------------
Miss Charlene Mason sang 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious pleasure to the congregation. Do I really need to say anything here?
----------------------------------------------------------
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs. Is this what they mean by surrogate parents?
----------------------------------------------------------
Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get. Great, now we'll need even more choir robes.
----------------------------------------------------------
The Rector will preach his farewell message, after which the choir will sing: 'Break Forth Into Joy.' Hallelujah!
---------------------------------------------------------
Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days. Too bad. They were a nice couple.
---------------------------------------------------------
At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice. Enough with the choir already!
---------------------------------------------------------
Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones. I told you they needed choir robes!
---------------------------------------------------------
Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children. Is there much call for this these days?
---------------------------------------------------------
Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered. Ew!
---------------------------------------------------------
The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility. As opposed to ungracious hostility.
-------------------------------------------------
Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow. "Upset stomach, indigestion, diarrhea..."
------------------------------------------------ ---------
The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon. I've seen the ladies of the church. I'll pass on that.
----------------------------------- ------ -----------------
This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin. Ready and willing.
---------------------------------------------------------
Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM . All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done. Oh, you meant Bible Study...
----------------------------------------------------------
The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday. I didn't know there were electric ones...
--------------------------------------------
Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door. Kick a man when he's down.
---------------------------------------------------------
The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy. Hamlet doesn't end very well, either.
----------------------------------------------------------
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church.Please use the large double door at the side entrance. Does no one proofread for content... or context?
----------------------------------------------------------
The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday : 'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours'. There's no need to be rude about it.
My most famous mistake in a bulletin was instead of "Morning Message - Pastor" putting "Morning Massage - Pastor." He wanted to know if he was giving or receiving.
I got a laugh out of these... I hope you do, too.
The Fasting & Prayer Conference includes meals. Cost of the meals: $0. Knowing they were offered anyway: priceless.
----------------------------------------------------------
The sermon this morning: 'Jesus Walks on the Water.' The sermon tonight: 'Searching for Jesus.' I think he went down over there!
-------------------- ------ --------------------------------
Our youth basketball team is back in action Wednesday at 8 PM in the recreation hall. Come out and watch us kill Christ the King. Wasn't that done 2,000 years ago?
----------------------------------------------------------
Ladies, don't forget the rummage sale. It's a chance to get rid of those things not worth keeping around the house. Bring your husbands. Ouch.
----------------------------------------------------------
The peacemaking meeting scheduled for today has been canceled due to a conflict. But was it an unforeseen conflict?
----------------------------------------------------------
Remember in prayer the many who are sick of our community. Smile at someone who is hard to love. Say "Hell" to someone who doesn't care much about you. Right back at you!
---------------------------------------------------------
Don't let worry kill you off - let the Church help. One of the church's strengths, no doubt.
---------------------------------------------------------
Miss Charlene Mason sang 'I will not pass this way again,' giving obvious pleasure to the congregation. Do I really need to say anything here?
----------------------------------------------------------
For those of you who have children and don't know it, we have a nursery downstairs. Is this what they mean by surrogate parents?
----------------------------------------------------------
Next Thursday there will be tryouts for the choir. They need all the help they can get. Great, now we'll need even more choir robes.
----------------------------------------------------------
The Rector will preach his farewell message, after which the choir will sing: 'Break Forth Into Joy.' Hallelujah!
---------------------------------------------------------
Irving Benson and Jessie Carter were married on October 24 in the church. So ends a friendship that began in their school days. Too bad. They were a nice couple.
---------------------------------------------------------
At the evening service tonight, the sermon topic will be 'What Is Hell?' Come early and listen to our choir practice. Enough with the choir already!
---------------------------------------------------------
Eight new choir robes are currently needed due to the addition of several new members and to the deterioration of some older ones. I told you they needed choir robes!
---------------------------------------------------------
Scouts are saving aluminum cans, bottles and other items to be recycled. Proceeds will be used to cripple children. Is there much call for this these days?
---------------------------------------------------------
Please place your donation in the envelope along with the deceased person you want remembered. Ew!
---------------------------------------------------------
The church will host an evening of fine dining, super entertainment and gracious hostility. As opposed to ungracious hostility.
-------------------------------------------------
Potluck supper Sunday at 5:00 PM - prayer and medication to follow. "Upset stomach, indigestion, diarrhea..."
------------------------------------------------ ---------
The ladies of the Church have cast off clothing of every kind. They may be seen in the basement on Friday afternoon. I've seen the ladies of the church. I'll pass on that.
----------------------------------- ------ -----------------
This evening at 7 PM there will be a hymn singing in the park across from the Church. Bring a blanket and come prepared to sin. Ready and willing.
---------------------------------------------------------
Ladies Bible Study will be held Thursday morning at 10 AM . All ladies are invited to lunch in the Fellowship Hall after the B.S. is done. Oh, you meant Bible Study...
----------------------------------------------------------
The pastor would appreciate it if the ladies of the congregation would lend him their electric girdles for the pancake breakfast next Sunday. I didn't know there were electric ones...
--------------------------------------------
Low Self Esteem Support Group will meet Thursday at 7 PM. Please use the back door. Kick a man when he's down.
---------------------------------------------------------
The eighth-graders will be presenting Shakespeare's Hamlet in the Church basement Friday at 7 PM. The congregation is invited to attend this tragedy. Hamlet doesn't end very well, either.
----------------------------------------------------------
Weight Watchers will meet at 7 PM at the First Presbyterian Church.Please use the large double door at the side entrance. Does no one proofread for content... or context?
----------------------------------------------------------
The Associate Minister unveiled the church's new tithing campaign slogan last Sunday : 'I Upped My Pledge - Up Yours'. There's no need to be rude about it.
My most famous mistake in a bulletin was instead of "Morning Message - Pastor" putting "Morning Massage - Pastor." He wanted to know if he was giving or receiving.
I got a laugh out of these... I hope you do, too.
Monday, March 31, 2008
Adoption News
We received our first child profile for possible adoption today! It's very exciting!
It was a one page profile with a color picture. I'm not sure how many details I can give, so I will keep this brief. She is adorable with moderate (but easily cared for) medical problems.
What happens now? Our social worker has sent out family/home picture album and case study to the child's social worker. That social worker will give our study to that county's adoption approval committe. If we are chosen as being the perfect family (other families are probably applying for her as well), then we will meet with her face-to-face.
We have no idea how long the process will take. Updates will come as they are available.
It was a one page profile with a color picture. I'm not sure how many details I can give, so I will keep this brief. She is adorable with moderate (but easily cared for) medical problems.
What happens now? Our social worker has sent out family/home picture album and case study to the child's social worker. That social worker will give our study to that county's adoption approval committe. If we are chosen as being the perfect family (other families are probably applying for her as well), then we will meet with her face-to-face.
We have no idea how long the process will take. Updates will come as they are available.
Sunday, March 23, 2008
"He Is Risen! ...
He is risen, indeed!"
That's the greeting early Christians shared on Easter as they gathered to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Almost 2,000 years later, we still share that same greeting in our churches.
That's the greeting early Christians shared on Easter as they gathered to celebrate the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Almost 2,000 years later, we still share that same greeting in our churches.
He is risen! He is risen, indeed!
Thursday, March 20, 2008
In honor of Mr. Rogers
Today would have been Fred Rogers' 80th birthday.
Family Communications Inc. of Pittsburgh, the company Rogers started to help produce his show, has encouraged today, March 20, to be "Sweater Day."
"Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood" has been a staple of PBS stations for years. In addition to changing his shoes at the start of each episode, one of Rogers' trademarks was the sweater he would wear every day.
I always enjoyed watching Mr. Rogers, and was more than willing to participate. Unfortunately, the only other person I saw wearing a sweater today was Dr. Tony Cartledge, my instructor for Ministry of Writing at Campbell University Divinity School (through whom I learned about this special day). Many others said they wanted to wear a sweater, but a) didn't have one or b) forgot. Oh, well.
My wife was nice enough to snap this shot of me wearing my sweater. She calls it my "old man" sweater. It doesn't make me look old, does it?
Wednesday, March 19, 2008
Christians & Commandments
This is an assignment due at Campbell Univeristy Divinity School for the Ministry of Writing class on Thursday, March 20, 2008. The assignment is to write a 600-word "lesson commentary" on a Bible passage of my choice. Here's a preview . . .
CHRISTIANS & COMMANDMENTS
Focal Passage: Mark 12:28-34
We often hear fellow Christians say that we do not follow the Ten Commandments because Jesus came to do away with them; or, he fulfilled them, and so we don’t have to worry about following them. Just what did Jesus have to say about the Ten Commandments? What about commandments in general? Did he have any special thoughts about commandments that should affect the way we live today?
The word “commandment” has several different meanings. In general, a commandment could be any authoritative instruction. Specifically, the Old Testament commandments were religious in nature, often concerning moral issues. There was a personal quality to the commandments given by God because these formed the covenant relationship between God and his chosen people, Israel. Being personal in nature, these commandments required a person to give his or her whole self in observance of them.
In later years, the Jews would recognize more than just ten commandments. Akiba, a first century AD Rabbi, identified 613 commandments contained within the Old Testament. Of these, 365 are prohibitions and 248 are mandates. These 613 commandments are often positioned within their relationship to the “original” Ten Commandments.
Jesus graciously answered when asked by one the scribes to identify the greatest commandment. It may surprise some Christians to know that the answer Jesus gave was based on two Old Testament commandments. The first, related to love for God, comes from Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (with echoes of Joshua 22:5). Deuteronomy 6:4 is called the Shema by Jews and is recited twice per day by devout Jews. Deuteronomy 6:5 is called the V’ahavta. Both form a central part of Jewish worship services.
It is no surprise then that Jesus would choose this commandment, and his questioner was pleased with this response. The second commandment Jesus identified, love of neighbor, comes from Leviticus 19:18. Here Jesus has identified two commandments that he esteemed to be important. Both of these commandments would be known to the Jews of Jesus’ day.
When Jesus says, “the second is like unto it,” what he really says is: “this is just like the first one.” It is difficult to know if Jesus meant “just like” in terms of importance or that it relates to love, like the first one mentioned.
Many scholars have observed that Jesus’ answer “sums up” the Ten Commandments. The first four commandments are related to love for God; the last six, for our fellow man. Most would agree that love for God and love for neighbor is a Christian doctrine. What may be the dividing factor between the Christian and the ancient Jewish view is the motivation for obedience.
The apostle Paul recognized this distinction in his letter to the church at Rome: “Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet’; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:8-10, NRSV). This is how Jesus “fulfilled” the law. In loving God and one another, we fulfill the law today.
Do Christians still follow the commandments today? Yes, but for an entirely different reason than the people of the Old Testament. They obeyed from a position of obligation; we obey out of love.
CHRISTIANS & COMMANDMENTS
Focal Passage: Mark 12:28-34
We often hear fellow Christians say that we do not follow the Ten Commandments because Jesus came to do away with them; or, he fulfilled them, and so we don’t have to worry about following them. Just what did Jesus have to say about the Ten Commandments? What about commandments in general? Did he have any special thoughts about commandments that should affect the way we live today?
The word “commandment” has several different meanings. In general, a commandment could be any authoritative instruction. Specifically, the Old Testament commandments were religious in nature, often concerning moral issues. There was a personal quality to the commandments given by God because these formed the covenant relationship between God and his chosen people, Israel. Being personal in nature, these commandments required a person to give his or her whole self in observance of them.
In later years, the Jews would recognize more than just ten commandments. Akiba, a first century AD Rabbi, identified 613 commandments contained within the Old Testament. Of these, 365 are prohibitions and 248 are mandates. These 613 commandments are often positioned within their relationship to the “original” Ten Commandments.
Jesus graciously answered when asked by one the scribes to identify the greatest commandment. It may surprise some Christians to know that the answer Jesus gave was based on two Old Testament commandments. The first, related to love for God, comes from Deuteronomy 6:4-5 (with echoes of Joshua 22:5). Deuteronomy 6:4 is called the Shema by Jews and is recited twice per day by devout Jews. Deuteronomy 6:5 is called the V’ahavta. Both form a central part of Jewish worship services.
It is no surprise then that Jesus would choose this commandment, and his questioner was pleased with this response. The second commandment Jesus identified, love of neighbor, comes from Leviticus 19:18. Here Jesus has identified two commandments that he esteemed to be important. Both of these commandments would be known to the Jews of Jesus’ day.
When Jesus says, “the second is like unto it,” what he really says is: “this is just like the first one.” It is difficult to know if Jesus meant “just like” in terms of importance or that it relates to love, like the first one mentioned.
Many scholars have observed that Jesus’ answer “sums up” the Ten Commandments. The first four commandments are related to love for God; the last six, for our fellow man. Most would agree that love for God and love for neighbor is a Christian doctrine. What may be the dividing factor between the Christian and the ancient Jewish view is the motivation for obedience.
The apostle Paul recognized this distinction in his letter to the church at Rome: “Owe no one anything, except to love one another; for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law. The commandments, ‘You shall not commit adultery; You shall not murder; You shall not steal; You shall not covet’; and any other commandment, are summed up in this word, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:8-10, NRSV). This is how Jesus “fulfilled” the law. In loving God and one another, we fulfill the law today.
Do Christians still follow the commandments today? Yes, but for an entirely different reason than the people of the Old Testament. They obeyed from a position of obligation; we obey out of love.
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
My kingdom for an alternator
I had to be at Campbell early today, so I got up at 4:00 a.m. I'm not sure if that's Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight Time. I do know it's whichever one feels earlier!
It was my turn to lead the home schooled children in my Music Ministry with Children class at Campbell Univeristy Divinity School taught by Dr. Whitley. I had all my materials planned out, the songs ready, and a really cool closing group acitivity. I needed to be there by 7:00 a.m. to prepare the room.
It's a two-and-a-quarter hour ride, so I left at 4:30 a.m. Then, disaster struck! It's 5:30 a.m., I've just passed through Kinston, and... the lights start going in and out. And then the speedometer stops working. And then the car stops alltogether.
Thankfully, I had enough intertia to coast into a small convenience store's parking lot. I immeidately called Dr. Whitley - at 5:30 a.m., leaving a message, of course - to tell him of my calamity. My next call? 1-800-AAA-HELP, otherwise known as AAA Roadside Assistance.
The lady I spoke with wanted to know if I was in a safe location, and wanted me to know that she wanted me to have the best experience possible with AAA. I didn't tell her, but things were off to a bad start since I needed to call in the first place. "Someone will be there within 45 mintues," she says at 5:35 a.m.
I then called my wife, Joleanna. And before we can finish our call, AAA calls back. "Did I say 45 minutes? I meant an hour-and-a-half." (Insert half-hearted smile.) So, I called Dr. Whitley again (and left a message again): I'm definately not going to make it.
The tow truck arrived at 7:20 a.m. and took me and my car to Colony Tire in New Bern. "Hi, Mr. Cannon. What can we do for you?" It's never a good thing when the shop owner knows you by name. I told him I figured it was the alternator. He agreed, and said they would check to make sure the battery was still good, too.
I called Lynn Brinkley at Campbell to have her spread the word that I wouldn't be at ensemble or chapel. As time passed, it became obvious I wouldn't make my other classes as well. I emailed my assignment to Dr. Jones and he was nice enough to email me back the Power Point presentation for today's class. And I called my voice teacher to tell her I wouldn't be able to meet with her today either.
So, around 2:00 p.m. I get a call that the car is ready. "I'm sorry, Mr. Cannon," the shop owner says, "that your alternator costs so much." Of course it does. Things for my car are always more expensive.
The day's shot. Dr. Whitley emailed back that class went fine. I feel bad about not being there, but there was little I could do. I got my assignments in and got word to everyone that I wouldn't be there.
At least I was okay. Hopefully things will be better tomorrow.
It was my turn to lead the home schooled children in my Music Ministry with Children class at Campbell Univeristy Divinity School taught by Dr. Whitley. I had all my materials planned out, the songs ready, and a really cool closing group acitivity. I needed to be there by 7:00 a.m. to prepare the room.
It's a two-and-a-quarter hour ride, so I left at 4:30 a.m. Then, disaster struck! It's 5:30 a.m., I've just passed through Kinston, and... the lights start going in and out. And then the speedometer stops working. And then the car stops alltogether.
Thankfully, I had enough intertia to coast into a small convenience store's parking lot. I immeidately called Dr. Whitley - at 5:30 a.m., leaving a message, of course - to tell him of my calamity. My next call? 1-800-AAA-HELP, otherwise known as AAA Roadside Assistance.
The lady I spoke with wanted to know if I was in a safe location, and wanted me to know that she wanted me to have the best experience possible with AAA. I didn't tell her, but things were off to a bad start since I needed to call in the first place. "Someone will be there within 45 mintues," she says at 5:35 a.m.
I then called my wife, Joleanna. And before we can finish our call, AAA calls back. "Did I say 45 minutes? I meant an hour-and-a-half." (Insert half-hearted smile.) So, I called Dr. Whitley again (and left a message again): I'm definately not going to make it.
The tow truck arrived at 7:20 a.m. and took me and my car to Colony Tire in New Bern. "Hi, Mr. Cannon. What can we do for you?" It's never a good thing when the shop owner knows you by name. I told him I figured it was the alternator. He agreed, and said they would check to make sure the battery was still good, too.
I called Lynn Brinkley at Campbell to have her spread the word that I wouldn't be at ensemble or chapel. As time passed, it became obvious I wouldn't make my other classes as well. I emailed my assignment to Dr. Jones and he was nice enough to email me back the Power Point presentation for today's class. And I called my voice teacher to tell her I wouldn't be able to meet with her today either.
So, around 2:00 p.m. I get a call that the car is ready. "I'm sorry, Mr. Cannon," the shop owner says, "that your alternator costs so much." Of course it does. Things for my car are always more expensive.
The day's shot. Dr. Whitley emailed back that class went fine. I feel bad about not being there, but there was little I could do. I got my assignments in and got word to everyone that I wouldn't be there.
At least I was okay. Hopefully things will be better tomorrow.
Friday, March 14, 2008
Like Nails on a Blackboard
Public Radio East (PRE) is the name of New Bern's local public radio station. Broadcasting from Craven Community College, PRE has two networks: one plays classical music and news from National Public Radio (NPR); the other plays various NPR news programs. One of the NPR news programs broadcast on PRE is "All Things Considered."
"All Things Considered" is a late-afternoon NPR news program. The show offers a wrap-up of the day's new stories. I'm usually in the car when the show comes on (4 p.m. in our area). The one irritating thing about the program is the local announcer.
At various points in the show a local announcer will give a list of local sponsors, updates on news stories of local interest, weather forecasts, or special interest features.
The problem is one of mispronunciation. The local announcer will say: "All Thangs Considered is made possible by..." I cringe each time I hear it. The word is "thing."I have often thought of calling and making a complaint, but I'm not sure it would make much of a difference.
I know, it's just one vowel. But I am a communicator as well, through various mediums: writing, teaching, singing, or preaching. It is important that I can be understood. So why not this announcer as well?
Is it asking too much that someone just pronounce the word correctly?
"All Things Considered" is a late-afternoon NPR news program. The show offers a wrap-up of the day's new stories. I'm usually in the car when the show comes on (4 p.m. in our area). The one irritating thing about the program is the local announcer.
At various points in the show a local announcer will give a list of local sponsors, updates on news stories of local interest, weather forecasts, or special interest features.
The problem is one of mispronunciation. The local announcer will say: "All Thangs Considered is made possible by..." I cringe each time I hear it. The word is "thing."I have often thought of calling and making a complaint, but I'm not sure it would make much of a difference.
I know, it's just one vowel. But I am a communicator as well, through various mediums: writing, teaching, singing, or preaching. It is important that I can be understood. So why not this announcer as well?
Is it asking too much that someone just pronounce the word correctly?
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Ministry of Writing Class for Thursday, March 13, 2008
We talked about writing commentaries in Ministry of Writing class today. There was some confusion about what was meant by "commentary." Some people had in mind the sholarly volumes found in libraries used to write exegesis papers. Dr. Cartledge explained that what we were writing as a commentary was more of a study guide for Sunday school teachers or students.
Class members brought in samples of commentaries from publications, most likely Baptists Today or the Biblical Recorder. Somehow the example I had was not well written. It's not the first time something I brought to class as an example was not top notch. How do I keep picking these poorly written articles?
After class I had a nice conversation with Dr. Cartledge about possibly submitting my article on writing an exegesis paper to Dr. Cogdill and Dr. Jones for distribution to new students. He thought it was a good idea and suggested that we go over it together to see where the writing could be "tightened up."
I also asked him about submitting my commentary (once written) for publication in Baptists Today or the Biblical Recorder. He suggested that I send it in as a sample of my writing and ask to be considered for any future writing assingments. He also said that the pay was less than stellar, but most writers submitted articles for print exposure, not money.
And I shared with him that Joleanna and I are going to see Garrison Keillor of "A Prairie Home Companion" at ECU in Greenville, NC on the last Monday in April. Dr. Cartledge quipped that he liked Keillor's radio show much more than his movie. I haven't seen it, but may have to look into seeing the movie sometime soon.
Class members brought in samples of commentaries from publications, most likely Baptists Today or the Biblical Recorder. Somehow the example I had was not well written. It's not the first time something I brought to class as an example was not top notch. How do I keep picking these poorly written articles?
After class I had a nice conversation with Dr. Cartledge about possibly submitting my article on writing an exegesis paper to Dr. Cogdill and Dr. Jones for distribution to new students. He thought it was a good idea and suggested that we go over it together to see where the writing could be "tightened up."
I also asked him about submitting my commentary (once written) for publication in Baptists Today or the Biblical Recorder. He suggested that I send it in as a sample of my writing and ask to be considered for any future writing assingments. He also said that the pay was less than stellar, but most writers submitted articles for print exposure, not money.
And I shared with him that Joleanna and I are going to see Garrison Keillor of "A Prairie Home Companion" at ECU in Greenville, NC on the last Monday in April. Dr. Cartledge quipped that he liked Keillor's radio show much more than his movie. I haven't seen it, but may have to look into seeing the movie sometime soon.
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