Thomas G. Long and his book, Preaching from Memory to Hope, as he quotes (and I summarize) Richard Dawkins: God isn't an object we must prove exists. By God's very nature God is transcendent and invisible, thereby unable to be proven. And that ultimately God chose to be revealed in Jesus Christ, who we also cannot unequivocally prove existed(s). Proving God exists is like proving love exists. It's not about proof, it's about faith, experience, and the hope that love does exist. Long goes on to talk about "subtraction theory." This is the notion that in order for civilization to move forward, all ideas and understandings of old must be completely let go. For example, if science disproves the Genesis creation theory, people must let that understanding go completely, or risk looking foolish and backward. I'm thankful that through Long’s words I am reminded that what we Christians truly need to share is God as being love and grace. Of course, we know that love and grace cannot be proven, but we also know they have the power to transform. I suppose in the end for me, I realize proving my faith isn’t necessary, but then worrying about looking foolish isn’t either.Blessings.
The words of Anne Lamott: “Grace always does bat last, and the light always overcomes the darkness--always, historically. But not necessarily later the same day, or tomorrow, after lunch. Wendell Berry told me 25 years ago, in Advent, the darkest shortest days of winter, “It gets darker and darker and darker, and then Jesus is born.” But it is only November 13! It gets even darker.” She goes on to say: “So after an appropriate time of being stunned, in despair, we show up. Maybe we ask God for help. We do the next right thing. We buy or cook a bunch of food for the local homeless. We return phone calls, library books, smiles. We make eye contact with others, and we go to the market and flirt with old or scary unusual people who seem lonely. Tom Weston taught me decades ago that in the face of human tragedy, we go around the neighborhood and pick up litter, even though there will be more tomorrow. It is another blessed sacrament. We take the action and the insight will follow: that we are basically powerless, but we are not helpless.” I am thankful that folks like Anne Lamott can say the thoughts in my mind with words that help me have hope in the midst of darkness - for France, certainly, but really for all parts of the world where people live with fear and uncertainty. Lord, have mercy, we cry - and the Lord does!
Celebrating one year since we arrived in this city. What a wonderful first year!
An unexpected "just thinking of you" phone call from a mentor/pastor/friend!Blessings.
A little bit of down time - and accomplishing some tasks around the house.
A very patient husband who understands that when I need to go to/for someone, I need to go. And he never complains. I am so thankful for him!Blessings.
Delightful visits with the elderly. So gracious, so sweet, so thankful to be visited. A joy!
Accomplishing tasks - ones that have been hanging around on the "to do" list for a while. Also a joy!Blessings.
Veterans! Yes,
Colleagues with whom I can discuss scripture, laugh, be honest, and dream about ministry.
Creative folks who share excellent ideas.
Grace and forgiveness from someone when I forget something I promised to do. (And prayers that doesn't happen too often!)Blessings.
The generosity of folks - yet again - who are being hugely generous in bringing canned food to donate to local school food banks. It’s amazing the number of cans so far.
Friends who read this blog - and send encouraging comments.
Talking with parents about baptizing their child. Holy ground!Blessings.
Folks who work very hard to help others, cooking and serving lunch to raise funds to give away. Awesome! And the generosity of those who attend!! Awesome, too!
The honor to hold worship at a retirement home.Blessings.
Seeing members out and about in town and having a chance to do ministry through conversation. Even if it’s only for a couple of minutes and a brief sharing of a concern, it’s still an honor to have folks share their life with me.Blessings.
Good news for those who are sick that I love and care about. Especially that the growth of cancer appears to have stopped!! Also, for good surgery and for good healing. So very thankful!Blessings.
Laughter. And the comment that I bring laughter to a place. Yes, I tend to try and see the humor in things. I am thankful for that gift - and pray I use it appropriately!!Blessings.
Bible Study – and the two groups of folks who will discuss and wrestle with what scripture readings might really mean! And who also challenge me to learn better how to articulate faith and understanding!Blessings.
The persistence of a helper with the office equipment who keeps trying to restore the computer! Very thankful!! And also thankful that what he is doing seems to be working!Blessings.
Colleagues in ministry. I have the opportunity/honor to serve as Chaplain for the First Call Theological Education retreat. This three-day retreat is specifically for new pastors in the Synod (within three-years) who meet in order to get to know one another, learn, share ideas, and share laments. They are an awesome group of folks! I am thankful for the honor to be among them, and to worship.Blessings.
