freshlook

Fathers and Time

2012-01-27T20:23:00.000-08:00

I’m thinking a lot about fatherhood these days. Could be the Baby Dedication this Sunday inspiring my thoughts; or the entertainer at last night’s annual Chamber of Commerce dinner as he talked about his family life and children, including a difficult divorce; or maybe it was for the first time seeing my oldest grandson play basketball last weekend; or the picture posted on facebook today, of the son of a friend, in a basketball pose serving as the perfect highlight for a poster; or remembering today is the anniversary of the tragic death of the son of good friends; or still yet the book I’m reading in prep for a class for fathers this spring.

In reading the book Raising a Modern Day Night by Robert Lewis, which will serve as a guide for the class, he invites appreciation for the value of time. No father is perfect, some less so than others perhaps, but there is no replacement for the time a father gives to his children. My own dad has his faults. And we had moments as with any father and son when we stood at opposite poles. His stubbornness found an equal in the persistence of his son. But, despite the imperfections I have recognized my entire life he gave me his time, without regret or distraction.

I think of the fathers who never had the privilege of returning from a battle field to invest time in their children. I think of the domestic tragedies in which in a moment families are ripped apart and a father longs to erase the chapter telling the story of a son lost to a drunk driver. Dads such as these serve as the backdrop for every father to be reminded they remain still able to give time to their children others cannot.

Dads you’re not perfect! But, your children don’t need your perfection. Everything in their world already does or will condition them to expect people to make mistakes, including you. But, they need your time! There is no substitute! Put on your masculinity and have a tea party with a three year old little girl, or play catch with a six year old even if it means repeatedly chasing the ball as it rolls under the car. And don’t do it just once a week. That’s not time, that’s concession to the role of fatherhood, not being a father. There’s no substitute for time. Your time!

Tents to Castles

2012-01-23T14:40:00.000-08:00

This year the ministry staff at Westhill elected to allow the theme for 2012 to encapsulate the new vision we have been moving toward – “Experience Life on the Hill.” This vision has turned toward the Spirit as the source of movement in body life and personal life, and acknowledges to truly embrace the work of the Sprit there must be receptivity to God’s will. I know this should be a given. If we are believers it means we are open to God. But, the reality is tents of sojourners become the castles of the captive. We become comfortable with the surroundings of our faith and lose sight of the role of searching and uncertainty. Yet, it was this searching and uncertainty leading to the sojourning faith with which we awoke each morning filled with the vitality of life. Can you still feel the air filling the lungs? Some of us can, but for others it is a foreign language. All we have known has been the ceramic tile and hardwood floors of the settled.

A tenet of the Restoration movement of which we claim a history, has been to value searching for truth and embracing the important. It is not uncommon for someone to approach me after a sermon and say, “I’ve never heard that preached in a Church of Christ before.” They intend it in a complimentary not pejorative sense so no offense taken, but I’m not always sure what they mean. It happened last Sunday after a sermon on giving. We’re good on giving in Churches of Christ right? We know how to strike the right balance between silence and appeal. Again I’m not exactly sure what was meant, but I know it tapped into a faith value, and was rooted in Scripture, at least in their opinion and certainly mine; which they were thrilled to hear proclaimed from my pulpit, a Church of Christ pulpit.

Truth is I don’t go into the week looking to speak a word to impress people it came from my pulpit! I go into each week searching for a word from God for the people. Short of sincerity such an ambitious statement should be heard with arrogance I suppose, but for me it is true. I’m not looking to excuse behavior I’m looking to be shaped by the identity of Christ, as I speak and serve as a voice in God’s hands to call others into a deeper relationship with God. My finding is such discovery-preaching, or to flip the analogy to the hearer and think in terms of discovery-hearing tends to call people out of their castles and back into tents. We like the idea of sojourning when thinking of the ultimate destiny relative to the here and now, but have less affection if it means actually trading in the tile and wood. Imagine a church filled with people who have made this trade. Imagine what body life would be like. Imagine worship! Imagine ministry! Imagine its impact on the community. Come “Experience Life on the Hill” with those who live in tents not clinging to their castles.

Fellowship of the Spirit

2011-12-06T21:29:00.003-08:00

In my youth I learned we (meaning our church and by implication other Churches of Christ) believe in the Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Then there was an unspoken shhh, relative to the Spirit. Adding to the mystery was the prevalent translation of the word for Spirit at the time, “ghost.” So we believe in a ghost, I thought. Did he resemble “Casper the friendly ghost,” but with a more serious tone? Shhh.

As I began to preach an older preacher once quantified the shhh, I had known, saying “there are two subjects I will not preach on.” I’m not sure what one was, but the other was the indwelling of the Spirit. He was apparently informed about the shhh.

I made a habit of collecting bible literature at each church I visited, when I was in Jr. High and Sr. High; when going to the occasional Christian bookstore; and even once spent food money on bible study material while attending a church workshop. Amidst the material I found one booklet on the Holy Spirit. I don’t recall what it said, but my curiosity was piqued by its novelty.

Spirit, Ghost, shhh. Enough said! Any serious question about his role invited a clear answer. “I don’t know. There is just not much in scripture on the Spirit. But, we believe Him!” “Absolutely!”

In retrospect if I grew up in a Trinitarian church it was more by unquestioned acceptance it was so. A bystanders perception would more likely have labeled us binitarian (God the Father and God the Son). And looking back I wonder to what extent our fellowship was weakened by a lack of influence on the Spirit. To what extent have we incurred a tendency to split and divide over a myriad of disagreements? To what extent have we been less effective in missions? To what extent have we been to impassionate about our faith?

So, the challenge before us is to overcome the encumbrance behind us by noting the discussion within scripture on the Spirit, to incorporate Spirit language into our faith practice, and to invite the Spirit into our lives. Our lives are to be filled with the Spirit, and to the extent we enjoy the influence in our ignorance and due to God’s grace how might our faith change if such influence came through active acknowledgement?

Stop and Laugh

2011-12-01T19:41:00.003-08:00

Is there enough laughter in your world? This past week the move toward Christmas has signaled the arrival of Salvation Army bell ringers at the doors of Wal-Mart and Kroger. And every one of them dons a smile to go with the word of good cheer. That’s not laughter, but it is just shy of it. By appearance I doubt it would take much to rattle the lungs.

What’s the point? The world is too uptight. We grown about wars a sea away, but we live in a sea of conflict where we are, at home, work, maybe even church. I cast my vote to relax a little, imitate the bell ringers, and smile a lot, a whole lot.

If we are serious about a long and healthy life then we should be a little more serious about being a little less serious. If we want our children to have a happy childhood then we need to give it to them by showing them how to laugh at ourselves, smile in the face of failure, and lift our chins in the wake of disappointment.

We laugh too little! Not in my house! Not in my office! Of course there are times when the call is for a tear, quiet, reverence, but the sanctity of the spirit breaking into a joyful laugh is but a moment away. Does it make us irreverent, immature, or unrealistic? I think it means we are happy!

As Christians we are in the world but not of the world we say. That does not mean we are licensed to hold the posture of frown as if it were the Divine default for the righteous.

A Cold Night's Reflection

2011-12-01T06:18:00.000-08:00

Computer screen up, warm house providing a cushion from the cold, and sitting in reflection! The Christmas lights and garland adorning the mantle, our mantle; it is so great to be in our own home after leasing for three years; and a little coffee, tepid temperature, still in the cup. Yes, I am prepped to scribe thoughtful and worthwhile words. You judge the worth naturally!

Every week has a theme, some more poignant than others; and this week thoughts of our tendency to cling to comfort zones, on a wide range of issues, has arisen at several normal daily junctures. By “our” I am thinking of my own heritage of faith. We embrace the Scriptures as divinely inspired words, but do we then take away from it the positions and pronouncements we carry into it?

What does it mean to be open to the Lord’s lead? What does it mean to be convicted by the Scripture? What does it mean to describe ourselves as learners? How serious are we about being challenged each time we open the Scripture? Is it really possible to change what you think?

As I currently preach through the Book of Hebrews which presents difficult Greek; and deep and at times illusive ideas, I find myself reading it over and over looking both for new meaning and a creative way to perform the homiletical (preaching) task. At moments I have more questions than answers and realize what I have to deliver is anything, but a nicely orchestrated message with closure at each juncture. It is as if I will go into the pulpit, open the doors in the minds of the listeners, and step out of the pulpit leaving the doors still open and a cold breeze drifting into the room. How can people possibly be satisfied with that?

Tonight I completed a book asking me to think thoughts which are not comfortable and imagine perspectives altering perceptions I have long held. I’m not resentful toward the author for the disturbance, but I could certainly have lived without it. Yet the question is not about living without it, as in survival. It is about spiritual growth, stretching the heart and mind. That’s the problem with comfort zones they keep you homebound when you could get out and enjoy the outdoors. Do a little yard work. Visit a friend. Jog around the block. Homebound is the experience of the aging, but it is not the preferred journey.

Bottom line, I need to read the Scripture to be transformed and be willing to step out in faith instead of staying home in fear! The goal is not comfort, but conviction; it is not in a sense security, but adventure.

Noticing

2011-08-08T12:12:00.001-07:00

This was service weekend around our church. Many of us painted a house on Saturday, others delivered updated church directories to homebound members on Sunday, and still others spread out to sing at 3 care facilities in town Sunday afternoon. What a weekend! A great weekend! Weekends like this happen too seldom for churches. They are events we have to work in the schedule. But, when they do occur we always walk away feeling good, talking about the event, and someone invariably says “we should do that more often.” True!

This has been an incredible summer, all summer, for the Westhill family. The sag of summer seems to have passed us by so far. Families coming. Families looking. And hopefully families finding. And what they find I trust is a church striving to live out a Christian faith which is real, filled with grace, hopeful, providing a place for families and individuals to thrive spiritually, and for those in need to receive a fresh start. This has been an incredible summer. Record hot temperatures while a topic of conversation, has slowed down little, actually nothing.

As we look toward the fall plans are under way to strengthen and expand our children’s ministry, build-up other ministries, and I find myself working through the fall with messages to be preached. In all our planning and in all out events we are inspired by what we are taking the time to notice – God is at work! We have been called to witness the shaking of Divine presence waking us to the reality God is moving and transforming lives. And in response we stand and applaud. God is worthy of applause! And it is natural for us to applause! So put your hands together and let the gentle roar echo upwards.

Christians and Happiness

2010-12-15T08:58:00.001-08:00

Can one be Christian and not happy, or is one a synonym of the other? And further if we profess to be Christians and are not happy where is the breakdown?

Could You

2010-12-08T13:28:00.001-08:00

So we talk about the joy of giving, but what if you went the entire season without buying anything for yourself and all gift-giving going one way – toward others. Not a single experience of exchange or even a negotiated quid pro quo. Could you do it? And would it be a great Christmas, or lame one? Weigh in! Be honest!

The Unspoken

2010-11-29T11:27:00.001-08:00

Perhaps less so now than at one time, but there was a time when the topic of the Holy Spirit received little press for many. So, here is what I am wondering, does avoiding the topic of the Spirit hurt the identity or mission of the church? Perhaps it doesn't given that the Trinity works in concert. On the other hand could it be we cannot be fully who we are designed to be if we neglect a full engagement of the Spirit? Topics on the table! What do you think?

Honest with the Season

2010-11-23T12:51:00.001-08:00

If we need a holiday to remember to say "Thank You" and carve out time for family how deep does our appreciation go? Shouldn't gratitude be a routine part of life? And let's face it, it seems like Thanksgiving is becoming more of a pause between us and "Black Friday!" The point is on the table. Weigh in!

The Season - roundtable

2010-11-22T08:22:00.001-08:00

As Christian if we want to maximize this time of year for preaching the Gospel two thoughts come to mind: first, are we currently doing it; and two what would it require for us to raise the banner for Christ as this year draws to a close. Are we missing the opportunity by not taking up more bells to ring and offering more Christmas plays to attend? Or, if we invest our efforts in those activities do we miss more important opportunities?

Reminisce about the season. What are your thoughts?

Jesus: Republican, or Democrat

2010-11-17T21:03:00.001-08:00

Riding to the office this morning the news indicated today was going to be busy on Capitol Hill. Having moved beyond the political season we now watch the politicians positioning themselves for power. This leaves me wondering if Jesus were to walk the political streets today which party would He be affiliated with? Would He make the Republican events, or the democratic? Would He long for an Obama re-election, or two years out, a defeat? All this of course presumes He cares about political parties and strategy formatting positions, speeches, and campaigns.

We turn on the news, or more likely catch a quick story when we start up our computer, and fidget nervously, or smile uncontrollably. Yet, I wonder which party would Jesus carry the banner for, or would he be passing out tea?

Wondering

2010-11-15T13:44:00.001-08:00

OK so here is a thought for reflection. Feel free to wade into the water of thought. What does it mean to "speak where the bible speaks and be silent where it is silent?" Does this mean the same for thing for everyone? Do we define the phrase in a way which keeps us comfortable? Is there anything wrong with that?

Into the Water

2010-08-14T20:51:00.001-07:00

I'm in the midst of preaching a series on baptism which I have described as an anecdotal look. Why anecdotal? Because it seems we approach the doctrine as a point of contention and I wanted to lead a rediscovery of the beauty of the experience. So, we are integrating stories from Scripture on baptism, doctrinal teachings from Scripture on baptism, and video stories of church members telling the story of their own baptism. In the final analysis perhaps it is more of an emotional journey through an experience historically at the heart of church life.

I wonder how many of us remember our baptism. Who were the people present? Who influenced us to make the decision? And to what extent does our baptism story continue to shape us? Perhaps it is in periodically recounting our own story which may not only influence others for Christ, but keep us faithful. Have you told your story lately?

Rich Faith/Rich Church

2010-07-30T18:07:00.001-07:00

Ok, so here is a question for reflection – What makes for a rich faith? Is it doing the right things? Knowing the right things? Being in the right places? Having the right associations? Is it possible "right," while serving as the sum for religious living, still fails to fill the emptiness in the soul? To put it yet another way – Can we walk the walk and talk the talk expected of Christian conduct, but be a shell of faith with no real heart?

I know, I know we look at our society much less world and see humanity growing less God-centered (as in Christ centered) and say the problem is out there with too little Christlike conduct and lifestyle. But when do we look within at those openly professing a Christian connection and ask about the depth and sincerity of our faith. I remember one of those popular bible tracts (short pieces of writing, just a few pages, in booklet form and hanging in church foyer tract racks) when I was a kid whose premise was sincerity was not enough. I get it, pursuing right understanding is very important. Agreed! But sincerity is important, and too often it is relegated to the sphere of secondary concerns. But, check the prophet Isaiah, note the demonstrations in Amos, and listen to the Christological march through 1^st century geography, and sincerity finds elevation to a primary spot.

And the richness is not simply about personal faith, but also about church. What makes a church a rich place to be? Rich faith and rich church? How do you define someone with a rich faith? What does a church which is a rich place to be look like? What do you think?????

Left Me Behind

2010-07-27T21:22:00.001-07:00

Sitting on the couch wondering when the dinner would cook itself Carolon and I finally decided to let a local restaurant do the honors. As we went through the outside doors into the lobby a lady who obviously had trouble with her feet, from the fact she was walking slowly and wearing house shoes out to dinner, passed in front of us to catch up with the rest of the family. Actually we stepped back to let her pass and as she did she jokingly remarked they left me behind. What she said in jest may reveal a bit of truth. If not for her at that moment it certainly does for many of us. I know Left Behind has been the rage for many in pop-eschatological theology in recent years. (Now there is a word worth coining, "pop-eschatology.") The point is not sudden departure out of the world, but the feeling of lagging behind people in this world.

Do you ever feel left behind? Ask a recent college graduate how it feels to be in no serious relationship and asked to join one wedding party after another of college roommates. Ask a draftsman who has spent a lifetime using tried and true techniques and suddenly finds them self competing for jobs with younger draftsmen who know the latest software. Ask a competitive heart who in their mid-twenties following a knee injury is no longer able to play competitive ball. Where is the fun in being left behind? And yet where is the advantage in letting it depress us?

I am competitive. I don't like to lose at basketball, or scrabble. My DNA says winning may not be everything, but it certainly has advantages over losing. That being said, when we do find our self pulling up the rear with little we can do to change it, why let it stress us out. The truth is the lady lagging behind was probably the one paying the bill so there is no way the rest of the family is going to move too far ahead.

New Roads

2010-02-14T21:09:00.001-08:00

Two weeks ago our grandson Ty was diagnosed with type 1 Diabetes as many of our family and friends know. And this weekend Jeff, Ty's dad, brought the kids to the grandparents to give Ty's mom a well-deserved weekend break. Frankly April deserved a break and the grandparents deserved a weekend with the grandkids, at least that is our story. This weekend brought changes to our typical routine when family comes in town. Every meal was planned, great attentiveness was placed on every activity we did, and the essence of life frankly took on an immediacy we tend to take for granted. Success for me came when I took Ty to the church FLC to play and after an hour and a half Ty checked his blood sugar (yes at the age of 5 he checked his own blood-sugar) and it was well-with the safe range.

As church ended this morning I was asked how Ty was doing and I responded "he is adjusting well." But, I also made a confession which I have thought about repeatedly over the past two weeks. I think at one point I even mentioned it to Carolon. In the past when I heard someone was diabetic I always felt sympathy for what they had to deal with, but really didn't appreciate the challenge. How could I? Now I see the blood sugar testing up close. Now I think about insulin shots and the necessity of eating within 15 minutes. Now afternoon and bed time snacks are more than the cravings of a spoiled appetite. Never have I felt a greater investment in finding a cure for diabetes. I feel guilty over the cavalier spirit of the past. And am in need of forgiveness from those who never knew my compassion failed to reach the feigned depths. And as I stand among your ranks I do so feeling unworthy, but nevertheless vociferously desirous of each every life receiving the freedom of a day when once again the pancreas independently performs the function of life.

All that being said, a word of thanks to Westhill friends who as we finished a meal at Chili's stopped by our table to tell Ty they had both been diagnosed with type 1 when they were children. Thanks friends! I know it made Ty feel good just to receive the attention, but speaking for the grandparents we needed to hear your story.

Let it Snow

2010-02-12T20:14:00.001-08:00

What a scene! Flakes of snow competing for air space as the warm earth began to lose ground to accumulating snow. I suppose for those who live in areas of the country where snow is a seasonal obstacle observing such grace becomes so common as to be unimpressive. For those of us who experience it infrequently, we are almost spell bound by the phenomena. A new record for a day of snow they tell us, and now the snow fall becomes more than spellbinding to observers, it becomes a stat for the books.

I suppose a preacher is expected to come up with a great spiritual illustration for the snow fall, but all I have is appreciation for the change of pace to my life and the beauty of a snow fall I rarely see. In fact in the years we lived in Houston the only real coating of white occurred the first Christmas our grandson was born. Strange isn't it, now the snow fall takes on the life of memories of a little boy I love, and then there are the memories of childhood growing up along the Red River when mom and dad would listen to the weather to see if the coming moisture would be more in the form of snow, or halting ice. And how could we ever forget the icy, snowy December in eastern Oklahoma; when I walked to a neighbor's house and borrowed a four wheel drive truck so we could make our way to the hospital, across the Arkansas River, in advance of our little girl's arrival. Spending all night anticipating labor seemed a better option than in-transit delivery. And then there was the January our son was born in the midst of a snow fall.

I sit and watch the grace of a snow flake fall and remember the grace of memories lived.

Refreshing

2009-09-22T14:00:00.001-07:00

After a hot summer, the persistent rain has me looking around for Noah. Wherever he is, is precisely where I want to migrate. Strange how the rain, though often a synonym for a sad face, or mellow spirit at best, can also serve to deliver moments of refreshment. I've found myself not only enjoying it, but anxious for its return during the intermittent breaks. And I've noticed the same lift in others.

As a kid, the rain was the signal to make boats to float in the water running along the street, or wade through the ditches filled with rain (I know sounds unsanitary. It's amazing what we can live through when no one us how bad it is for us.). It was the time to break out a game of ultimate football, which resembled mud wrestling. And it was a time to lay the normal routine aside, stay home if you could, and let the world slow down. Some things you don't out grow. Anyone for a little football?

Reconnections

2009-09-19T20:19:00.001-07:00

At noon Carolon and I sat down for lunch with a young woman who when last we saw her twenty years ago was a teenage young lady in our youth group. Twenty years with no contact and then I received an email inquiring if I was the former youth minister at her church (The one she attended as a teen. Now she lives half way across the country). Through today's conversation we discovered locating us started with a google and then a flurry of phone calls, first to a funeral home where my name had appeared in an obituary as the minister of record in a memorial service, and then to several churches in central Texas where she recalled Carolon and I had previously worked.

A few weeks ago she made plans to come to the area to visit a friend and we made plans to meet for a meal. "On the Border" became the host for a special reunion. She had the same smile, same bubbly spirit, and same sincere attitude. Twenty years had passed, she now had a family, our kids are grown, and yet there was something warmly familiar about the moment. She introduced us to the friend she was visiting, a vibrant spirited young Christian woman; and by the end of the lunch we were all hugging goodbye, anxious for the next connect.

It must have taken 30-40 minutes to order and four, or five return trips by the waiter saying, "Are you ready to order yet? Take your time, there is no rush." Finally, we paused long enough to dispense with the choosing so we could reignite the conversation. One of the most beautiful moments for Carolon and I came as we listened to her tell her faith journey. Listening to her tell about her faith, her Christian family, her bible study, love of worship, and church sent us away grateful beyond description at a God of grace.

Ministry leaves us with so many moments, and situations where we wonder. It feels good to know! And suddenly past memories open the door to future ones.

Laugh and Enjoy

2009-09-17T16:12:00.001-07:00

Some of us remain so stressed out. We are like rubber bands constantly extended and waiting to break. And the people around us stand with guards up anticipating at any time we will lift the mixer blades of our life out of the bowl, while it is still running, and well, you know what happens. The people around us are treated to more of us than they want. So, what brought this on? Glad you asked! I frequently work through lunch and today while deep in thought the fire alarm suddenly broke into action – the sound reminded me of a church business meeting I attended as a young man where the atmosphere was filled with a lot of noise and chaos (little common sense, incidentally). So, what happened? One of the preschool kids touched what should only be touched in an emergency. At least the preschooler was in preschool. When I satisfied my curiosity I was a boy in grade school. When the sign says, "Alarm will sound if opened," IT REALLY WILL!

OK, so we know life can be unpredictable; even with the most innocent intentions things happen; and yet we move with the grace of a volcano people will notice if ignited, yes self included. But, we can also "take things in stride" as the saying goes. Today was a good day for me, it was stride day. And the people around me did not leave with more of me than they wanted!

Sharing the Experience

2009-07-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

This morning I dropped Carolon off at Love Field for the flight to Houston Hobby and tomorrow she will board a cruise ship out of Galveston for her inaugural cruise. I sit at home still awaiting my induction into what seems like a uniform opinion from those who’ve been, “there is nothing quite like a cruise, the food is wonderful, and everything you need is taken care of.” Ok I get the point, but still I sit at home!

This summer Carolon has spent several days out of town helping to care for a new grandbaby addition to the family and so in prep for this trip she asked me,” so what are you going to do while I am gone?” I responded, “Well, last time I read five books and was able to catch up on a lot of work.” Yes, honesty is the best policy, but not without consequences. Again I sit at home, awaiting what may prove to be an allusive dream of one day sailing the high seas.

In anticipation of applying for a doctoral program at summers end, I have work needing to be done over the next week. It is the perfect time to shift to a higher gear. The itch is returning to write, and I’m feeling something a little demanding, perhaps a little more scholarly for a journal offering, may command my vision. VBS is just a week away and I am torn between an adult textual study which is my passion, or a video series on family which has been quite popular. Regardless I have to decide the direction and do the prep. And yet the waves and the breeze, the sound of laughter and the aroma of exquisite dishes keep high jacking higher and more worthy thoughts. I sit at home, wanting, waiting, wondering…

Last night Carolon and I sat down for a wonderful steak dinner to celebrate (though a day late) 31 years of marriage. And what I have discovered, more in recent months than ever before, we have reached a point in life, in marriage, where I have this unexplainable sort of satisfaction along with her in what she experiences. When she went to help with the new grandbaby I felt a sense of being there and enjoying it also. And in anticipation for this trip I didn’t feel regret for not going, just excited she was going with three close friends to have, as we say, “the time of her life.”

Yes I sit at home wanting to one day board a ship myself and be overwhelmed by the vastness of the ocean all around, but tomorrow I feel the joy for and through Carolon.

Graduation

2009-05-29T21:47:00.000-07:00

Cap and Gown season is here and we find ourselves celebrating with at least 11 families, seven at our home church and several others from families we have been friends with for years. In my youth ministry days I would yearly attend three, or four ceremonies of 700 to 800 graduates. The convention center hosting the graduation would be packed, the pomp and circumstance well choreographed, and the atmosphere electric. Every family waiting for the 5 to 10 seconds of fame for "their graduate!"

Honestly whether the graduation is in southeast Texas, central Texas, or North Texas some aspects are predictable. I suppose over the years I have attended so many graduations the predictable has become the norm. But, tonight the unanticipated burst in to deliver a freshness.

Carolon and I traveled to the small school district of Kopperl to celebrate the graduation of our friend Reagan. Both an accomplished athlete, achieving a full athletic scholarship with Harding University, and Salutatorian of her class; Reagan delivered a remarkable speech, sensitive to her class and expressing the necessary inherent gratitude for all who experience great achievements in life. Others spoke, awards were given out and then it happened -- the unexpected, at least by us. In front of the stage the typical flower arrangements adorned the front, but they were not there to dress the stage. At the given moment each of the grads walked to the front and began taking long stemmed flowers out of their designated vases and delivering them to friends and family throughout the audience they wanted to "thank." Beautiful Celtic music played as 16 grads went back and forth from their vases to the audience. It was touching! Now we might say this is the sort of activity one can pull off in a small school, and perhaps that is true. We also might say many schools have their own brand of this type of sentimental expression of gratitude and perhaps that is also true. But, I have been to alot of high school graduations and I have never been touched in quite the way I was tonight.

Graduations are about the individual achieving a goal, but they are also about all the people who have prayed and supported that individual toward that goal. Is it really one person dancing across a stage, or a host of hearts dancing the "happy dance" across the stage? Long ago I came to realize the weddings I performed should appropriately acknowledge the many people who have poured their love into the two hearts making a covenant. And in premarrital counseling, when I share this with a couple, they are appreciative that what they have felt will be noted; but tonight I saw a school do it right with graduation.

We attended another graduation ceremony tonight like the many which preceded. Except it wasn't. I stand to applause Kopperl High School who has discovered the true meaning of graduation!

The Season

2009-05-28T08:25:00.000-07:00

Carolon and I have persistently viewed each time of our lives - marriage, raising children, ministry transition - as a great season of life. Such perspective can bring accurate accusations of being unrealistic about life. The tensions inherent in each season for the sane evokes feelings of frustration, disappointment, unsurety, etc., which is true. And we have experienced the gamut of emotions, but our choice has always been to land on the upside, the sun rising, the romantic sunset, the awards assemblies, tax day behind us, kids tax testing at school in the rearview mirror, vacation just around the corner, the transmission repaired, and I could go on of course.

At this time of life friends I care about deeply are experienced uncertain times, broken hearts, and questioning their next step. I feel their anguish and the distance separating us makes the agony more acute. But, breaking through this cloudy day a light of brilliance has emerged through the freshness of new life as our little Ali May came into the world last Friday with her initial words predicting the promising future awaiting her. As she looked around the room at all the strange faces she paused at one offering an innocent smile. Her words? I Love You Grandad! I see a trip to McDonalds in her future.

Journey

2009-04-14T17:54:00.000-07:00

Church has been my life in many respects. Always there, never traipsing off on a tangent, faithfully present and involved. When in those situations where people told their Jonah stories of running from God, I had little to say but “Didn’t run away,” “I stayed home.” When the “stay home” brother of the prodigal story fame occasionally made an appearance; through some preacher’s sermon, or book I was reading; I knew how the guy felt. He stayed home and so did I. Didn’t waste my father’s wealth! Worked hard! Completely dependable!

The “stayed home” story feels lacking at those moments of personal testimony, but should I really feel guilty about doing the right thing? Ridiculous, isn’t. Even now these meanderings seem an exercise of the foolish. But, somewhere along the way I began to peel away the self-confidence of staying home, the temptation to pride of remaining inside on rainy days instead of trudging through the mud. I began to see running in place can be as detrimental as running the wrong way, and actually is it not just another way of running the wrong way?

Life at home, or painfully sorting through the mess called “my life,” most appropriately operates under the banner of Journey. Not there yet! Have much to learn! Pray for me! Viewed as a journey the life of faith (seeking faith, or greater faith) is actually quite liberating. It releases me to ask and seek, to celebrate when finding, and lean dependently when at a loss.

There is no pride left in not running away, I’ve come to discover we all have our Jonah moments; some of us are just a little better at concealing them.

Anticipation

2008-12-10T13:50:00.001-08:00

For months, where I preach, plans have taken shape as a church waited anxiously (appropriate oxymoron) for the completion of the new FLC (Family Life Center). Last week the doors were opened to classes, last night to the annual ladies Christmas party, and this Sunday to a full-sized potluck. No phrase says church more than potluck for many. It is a tradition transcending all church parameters. Sound the alarm for food and there is no quiz needed to assess an understanding of protocol.

The joy of this FLC inaugural happening is it fills the space gap. For three years fellowships have been limited and modified due to space, but now open the doors, everyone file in, and enjoy the fun.

And lest the cloud of what we have create a self-serving fog, the party places front and center the one who made it all happen – the Lord of Lords and King of Kings – Jesus! Suddenly I feel the old tune King Jesus is All running through my brain. But, it is due to Him and a healthy fear of ingratitude motivates me to embrace Him with thanks: a gratitude we will share as a church Sunday morning. Groups of Ministry Staff, Shepherds, Building Team Members, and Deacons will stand before the Westhill church to lead the body in expressions of thanks, but also to focus the body with a commitment for the path ahead.

We have been presented with a tool for active body life, not a museum for dead body remembrance!

Hang On

2008-09-09T10:49:00.001-07:00

It's hard to believe it has been a month since Carolon and I settled into our new home and ministry here at Westhill. Our moves over the years have been few and far between, so there is a certain rookie feeling about this transition. And to be quite honest I'm glad. I would hate to waltz in with the disposition of being use to moving and starting over.

My boyhood church went through three preachers while I was growing up: Eugene Gilmore, one I only recall as Bro. Dennis, and Ed Morris. The last, Ed Morris was there for most of those years. In fact, upon graduation I returned to Burkburnett for a short stint as his associate. (What a different experience from kid in the pew to minister on staff.) So, I suppose I came into ministry with the mindset of investing years not months. Also, I have always thought not growing up in a preacher's family instilled a feeling of not being set apart from the church and just temporary member, but seeing our family as just one of many families. (Undoubtedly, those of you second, or third generations preachers, etc. might have a different perspective.)

This move carried us away from physical family and long time friends, but we have experienced such a warm reception; the experience of being here is swiftly drifting toward the familiar from the new. In addition to the reception, the pace of life has moved/and is moving rapidly as we work to build friendships; learn about ministries at Westhill and in the community; and add our gifts to the array of work already being performed. As I write this the sounds of preschool echo through the building with excitement.

By God's grace we all minister regardless of the pace. By His power we gain strength to accomplish what needs to be accomplished today. And through His wisdom we anticipate the adventure of tomorrow. HANG ON!

What Stress?

2008-08-15T21:06:00.001-07:00

Tonight I watched a young woman who will realize a dream tomorrow, when she and her love are married, throw off the stress of an impending wedding, set aside the weariness of a day spent scurrying around town accomplishing a list of final objectives (at least final until morning delivers additional crises items), look past incidental comments which offer little help, and skip her way through the rehearsal with vibrancy and joy.

I asked her as we walked up to the restaurant door for the rehearsal dinner, "Are you really going to run down the aisle at the conclusion of the ceremony tomorrow?" a strategy for leaving the stage area she had suggested (threatened). Her response to me was, with a smile, "I would like to!" Will she do it? Probably not, but the spunk she was displaying when so many brides at wedding time are uptight and worn out, was inspiring. I know weddings are special events, and certain conventions of decorum are more acceptable than others, but too often we allow pivotal life events to transform our world into a drudgery to move past rather than an experience to embrace. Should weddings be fun? Is there really any advantage in filling the role of Bridezilla?

Let's plan, let's practice, let's pursue the perfect ceremony dream; but through it all let's do a little more skipping!!!!

Unusual and Fitting

2008-07-22T22:54:00.001-07:00

Last Friday was one of those challenging days in ministry placing generous demands and offering great opportunity. A friend, and the brother-in-law of a church member, was tragically killed and I was asked to help with the service. This posed a few challenges, since it was out of town and preceded a wedding I had agreed to perform that evening. Making the six hour round trip, I arrived home to change into wedding attire and on to the wedding with a generous 10 minutes to spare.

What a great honor to be asked to participate in the case of both events. I have always said I am perfectly willing to be one of the crowd offering support and respect from the audience. But, when asked to take the lead role with either I am humbled. However, humility assumed new shades of meaning at the memorial service. My friend loved a great joke. He didn't mind feeling the brunt of laughter and he carried a reputation for pulling jokes on others. At his memorial service the unexpected happened.

The funeral home chapel was filled to capacity. I had requested the family write down reflections and memories of the member suddenly and tragically lost and they had responded beyond expectation. For perhaps 15 minutes I shared their thoughts with the audience allowing all to be impressed and occasionally laugh at real life experiences. When the service concluded and people were passing by the casket and out of the chapel, one older gentleman relying heavily on a cane, ambled up to the front, came face-to-face with me and informed me in no uncertain terms he had not been able to hear a thing and I needed to do something about the sound system. His voice carried throughout the chapel. He walked out the side door and the family broke into gentle laughter feeling much as I did (I would learn later in conversation with them). Though an unusual experience it felt strangely fitting for the affinity my friend felt for moments of unanticipated laughter.

As for the sound system…well let's just say visiting preachers have very little pull.

In the Distance

2008-07-13T21:56:00.001-07:00

So how far can one be from God and still find Him? Or, to consider the question from the opposite direction, how far into the distance will God pursue a man? I don't know a definitive answer, but I see in Scripture a definitive God. Whether influenced by the metaphor of a father longing for the return of his lost son, or the image of Jesus deeply moved by humanity's condition of spiritual disorientation; God's self-sacrificing actions forge our expectations our God, who will dare to deliver up His only Son for our spiritual freedom, will wait patiently and reach deeply into our darkness and turn on the light.

What we preachers reminisce about, develop dialectical discourses regarding, and even tap for inspiration; God allowed me to experience vicariously. For years my friend had been one of the last through the doors on Sunday mornings and first to leave the assembly. He staked out a place at the rear of the auditorium during the assembly, successfully avoiding interaction with most. But, approximately a year ago life came crumbling in on him and in desperation He reached for a God who had always seemed allusive of bona fide satisfying intimacy.

With every other avenue spelling failure he began to open to God. For the first time in his life when he read the Scripture it made sense. Prayers became the substantive language of a seeker, rather than the guilty words of avoidance. Moving from the back of the auditorium to the front he began to engage more people, plug more intimately into the worship, and experience God more as an advocate than an adversary.

Last Sunday morning I rushed through the fellowship center heading for the office, following class, to drop off class material and make sure I had all of the needed material for the sermon. My friend caught me and asked if I would baptize him the following Saturday. Why Saturday? He is very shy and only wanted family and a few friends. All week long I have anticipated last night. And as he stood before witnesses professing his faith we all witnessed what God can do when the lost wants to be found.

This morning with a picture of the baptism on the screen we introduced our church to our new brother. He stood and resounding applause expressed the emotions of the church. The words of a song are resonating in my mind in facilitating my friend's overcome heart of emotions, "I once was lost, but now I am found; was blind but now I see." How far can one be from God and find He is right next door? Far! How pursuant is God of a wondering soul? Very!

Angels Unawares

2008-07-09T07:53:00.001-07:00

As typical, children from the neighborhood attended our Vacation Bible School, with no other connection to our church other than they wanted to come to VBS. On the first night we unfolded a carnival with a large bouncing slide (which the adults enjoyed as much as the children), an inflatable jumping room, games and crafts, hot dogs, and snow cones. In the midst of the fun, I met a talkative nine year old little girl. OK "talkative nine year old" sounds redundant, but you have the picture. She told me about her family, her hobbies, and what a great time she was having at VBS.

Now our strategy is to place the refreshment time at the end of the night, outside under our portico, and have parents to pick their children up there while enjoying the refreshments themselves. This allows us as workers to get acquainted with them. On the second night of VBS I saw the mom of my new little nine year old friend and thought "I recognize her." As we talked I learned she worked at Wal-Mart and that was where I remembered her.

Flash forward a week, a trip to Wal-Mart early in the morning for an oil change, and as I entered the store there she stood calling a customer to pick up his vehicle. My first thought was to wave so as not to appear rude. My second thought was of being glad I saw her before displaying a bad attitude, negative spirit, anger, and I think you know where I am heading. OK, while Wal-Mart typically provides my oil changes, every experience has not been an exemplar of customer care and satisfaction. I go there because they are cheap and one of our members, who I have great respect for, now runs the shop.

I doubt very seriously the Hebrew writer envisioned VBS, oil changes, and Wal-Mart when he wrote, "some people have entertained angels without knowing it," 13:1; but there certainly seems to be a principle we can run with anyway. In line at McD's, checking out at HEB, driving down the freeway, waiting for the pizza which was suppose to be ready for pick-up in 20 minutes and now it is 40 minutes later, and on and on. We never know when God is checking out our hospitality through unassuming circumstances. We never know when the gracious attitude shown at VBS finds validation, or invalidation on a quick trip to Wal-Mart.

Flashback

2008-07-06T22:35:00.001-07:00

As Carolon and I prepare for a transition to the Westhill Church of Christ in Cleburne we are bringing various ministry functions to a close. This effects changes in our time and commitments, including a redirect of what has become a Sunday morning routine. The weekly Shepherds/Ministry Staff meeting at the Alvin Church of Christ happens at 8:00 AM each Sunday. But, two weeks ago I suggested to my fellow leaders the remaining weeks I was on staff my plan included bowing out of these meetings, except for when they specifically asked me to attend. This would allow them to work on their own transition at our departure. In the absence of a meeting to launch the day, how would I start the teaching/preaching engine? By visiting one of America's richest locations for sermon reflection – Starbucks! Those of you who teach and preach know precisely what I mean.

Our local Starbucks is inside Kroger. As I walked into the sitting area, a Kroger's employee was kicked back at a table waiting for a ride. He had no car, was living with his sister and brother-in-law, had one child out of wedlock to whom he was being forced to pay child support, and predictively had no money. How do I know this? Because he poured out his pain, to an unsuspecting fellow employee; and I listened, while working through the morning homily. The guy innocently asked, "You off work?" and in response he received a bitter ear full. I'm guessing the next time he sees "Mr. My Life is Hard," he will duck and dodge.

Jump forward one week, I walk in this morning and the only change is the story is being told to another employee. Everything else remains the same. The events of the past week provide the only tangible indicator time has passed. His story is typical of how many of us remain stuck in a life frame which is not personally flattering, self-esteem building, or hopeful. Rather than take responsibility we elect to feel offended by life and justified in passing the blame for any indiscretion, regardless of how offensive, on to someone else.

Jesus' profession on what His arrival on earth delivers is "life to the full." And yet this life, His life, "life to the full" is an evasive philosophical proposition at best; and an elusive presentation of reality at worst as long as we view our life through the lens of paralyzing self-pity. We are not created for life by the least common denominator of existence, but to pursue life with excellence.

Yes, this Sunday I will likely continue my new routine. I wonder if the story will change?

Driving Rain on a Sunny Day

2008-07-03T13:17:00.001-07:00

Tuesday afternoon the sky opened and a driving rain fell for about 15 minutes. Is this unusual? No! But, what was unusual was how bright the sun shone while rain drenched the earth. The eclectic nature of the experience proved to be a precursor for the day I encountered Wednesday. In the morning convincing the a/c repair guys if the air conditioning was working adequately people wouldn't be signing up for free memberships to the auditorium sauna during VBS in the evenings; and in the afternoon meeting with the bride of an upcoming wedding. Add to this deep study time in prep for the Wednesday night "Faith Café" and Sunday sermon, a foray into troubleshooting technology issues, a brief conversation with my son who is working in England this week, a heart-to-heart talk with a young man at church about my impending move to another ministry, and the rush of VBS. Then, to put the final touches on the day Carolon and I turned out the lights at a local restaurant with good friends from church.

I've heard people talk about how tedious life is, but somehow such moments of transcending passivity and taciturn reality evade my experience. Quite frankly I like the assortment, rush of energy, and demands of a multitasking world. It fits my personality. And yet at this moment, on the brink of a 4^th of July holiday, the office being closed, and entering a no planned event zone (at least for two days) I find myself welcoming the "quiet life" Paul found through prayer (1 Timothy 2:2), and the psalmist found through a Shepherding God. Take a deep breath, smell the fragrance of life, step off the roller coaster, and relax. Even God rested on the seventh day!

Reflections on a Friendship

2008-06-29T22:32:00.001-07:00

In ministry one is suppose to grow accustomed to the transitory nature of life I suppose, and yet I find myself periodically left breathless by its fleeting shadows. This past Thursday I experienced such a transcending moment as I sat down with friends who have been special to my heart for over ten years. When the Nelsons first touched ground in Alvin I remember running into Wayne, Debra and their family in a local restaurant, after church one Sunday. Although we had only been in town a few days I'm sure we had met, but there was something about this encounter which stuck with me.

In the following weeks and months our friendship grew. When in the medical center I would drop by Wayne's office for a brief visit. Carolon and I were often included in family events and as Wayne's daughter finished college and planned to get married, I was honored to perform the ceremony. It was a very simple and beautiful event on New Year's Eve, concluding with a cruise for the wedding party and a few friends on Clear Lake. But, as we all experience, the rush of life rather than bringing us together often carries us further apart. Such was my experience.

In the past few weeks the tide changed. We all know the refreshment of a call from an old friend. My ministry assistant buzzed me and said Debra is on the phone for you. In the past such calls were to invite us to attend a special family event, or peruse bible answers for difficult life questions. But, this time the call was about Wayne. Wayne wanted to see me. She told me the problem, but not the details. So for the next week I longed to see Wayne. I thought and prayed for my brother in faith and friendship. Then last Thursday we coordinated a time when Debra would be home from work and I went by.

Wayne had been diagnosed with a brain tumor and due to the type of tumor and location in the brain they were opting not to do surgery or treatments. What was their plan? Wayne wanted to visit a few places in Texas and beyond that simply enjoy his final days, appreciating life he had often taken for granted. Over the years the periphery of life persistently demanded center stage for Wayne. And his relationship with God regularly took the hit of his own inner struggles. But, now he felt something new. Something real. Something ultimate. For the first time in his life he felt liberated.

Wayne poured out his heart of faith and joy in God. His words were not the melody of bitterness, echoes of hopelessness, or cries of desperation. His take on life and death reflected the harmony of a God He now knew, as he had never known before. In the prime of life, excelling in his profession, and new grandkids to spoil, yet, Wayne was near life's exit sign. Odd though it seems, my preaching text this week has been 2 Corinthians 4:16-5:5, where the focus is on the body declining, the spirit being renewed, and the Christian longing for eternity with God. I've learned not to be so surprised when God has summoned just the right text for a given week. I've learned to receive and in turn give.

So, this week has been about receiving from a dear friendship. Receiving faith. Receiving life. Receiving hope. Receiving love. As I entered Wayne and Debra's home a man out of breath I was met with the open arms of My Brother and Friend.