Day #2034

July 27, 2019 

We finally made it to the Farmer’s Market. And imagine my surprise when we found okra for sale. Like, off the plant okra…here, in the west! First time I have seen it for sale here, except frozen. Soo…we had a southern supper - crab cakes, homemade coleslaw, and fried okra. YUM! 

Blessings.

Day #2033

July 26, 2019

The word for the day - busy. But then that's a rather typical description of a day off - errands, tasks around the house, maybe a little rest (guess that’s technically not being busy, however). 

Good also describes the day. Especially when a “sermon illustration” happens at lunch. To the woman who was inspired to stop at our table to share your observation, you may never know how you inspired me. Thank you for appreciating our praying! 

Blessings.

Day #2032

July 25, 2019 

Here is another smile for the week (and is keeping with the theme from Tuesday's Thoughts on Scripture):

Oh, the struggle is real for the hubby. At least I think it is. It's not easy being the pastor's spouse. 

Also, there was some fun today. First, FaceTime with our great-niece. Then winning a book from the local bookstore. You have to love those random number selection apps. Well, today I do. :-)

Blessings.

Day #2031

July 24, 2019

Today marks two years since we brought Boomer home. 

This shows his sassy self - he was “talking” to me as I took his picture (and his tail wagging so fast you can hardly see it). 

Happy anniversary, Boomer. You have certainly changed our lives - and they are fuller because of you!

Blessings.

Day #2030

July 23, 2019

Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Luke 11:1: [Jesus] was praying in a certain place, and after he had finished, one of his disciples said to him, "Lord, teach us to pray, as John taught his disciples.” (NRSV)

Prayer! Perhaps the backbone of being Christian and yet one of the hardest parts to understand. Is prayer simply conversation? Is it giving God a laundry-list of our needs, or the needs of someone we care about? Is prayer a little like magic? Should we pray more than once about the same thing? Do we need to? (Cindy used to say, I imagine God wonders about this Cindy person who keeps asking for the same thing over and over.) With all the questions, perhaps it is good to wonder, just what is prayer really about?

Obviously the disciples wondered. They wanted Jesus to teach them to pray - to maybe instruct them what to pray about and to give them guidelines regarding how often they should pray. The bottomline of the question could have been - is there a certain format that must be followed in order for prayers to be heard and answered.  

Therefore, when Jesus answered with what we now call the Lord’s Prayer, a format is more like what he had in mind. Really, the Lord’s Prayer should be less of a memorized prayer we say by rote and more of a reminder of who it is we are praying to and their kingdom. But there is also our daily life, our faults, and our need for protection from temptations. 

When it comes to prayer, I believe the question from the disciples is relevant for us, too. Not only for the Lord to teach us, but to keep us faithful in doing it. Therefore, prayers for us all! Amen.

Blessings.

Day #2029

July 22, 2019 

It’s Monday and the laugh for the week comes from the baseball game yesterday. Orbit, the team mascot, came by where we were gathered. I didn't expect him to tease me about being taller - notice how much higher his hands are than mine as I tried to give him high 5’s

Yes, he was just too high. Haha 

But then he did dance with me. Guess that made up for teasing me. 

Either way, it’s good to laugh, even sometimes at your own “short” comings. ;-)

Blessings.

Day #2028

July 21, 2019

After a Sunday away, it is always good to be back. I miss the folks when I’m away! 

And today was especially fun as we gathered for lunch and a baseball game. It is good to be together - and the weather was perfect! Thank you to those who came, and to the Voyagers for putting it all together.

And…happy National Ice Cream Day!! But then, most every day should include giving thanks for this delightful treat! Haha!

(Disclaimer - the picture is from a few years ago, but the smile is timeless!)

Blessings.

Day #2027

July 20, 2019

This from Richard Rohr spoke to me today. Seems this prayer suggestion is timely and timeless:

Prayer is sitting in the silence until it silences us, choosing gratitude until we are grateful, and praising God until we ourselves are an act of praise. Mature prayer always breaks into gratitude. This week’s practice is a body prayer from Beverly Lanzetta. Adapt the movements to your body’s needs so that you’re comfortable. Focus simply on the feeling of gratitude and, as you are able, do the following as you read through the stanzas: bow, kneel, lie down, rise, put your hands over your heart, place your hands together, bow your head, and open your arms wide. 

Holy Earth, Holy Cosmos, I bow before you with my whole being. 

Holy Creatures, Holy Nature, I kneel upon the earth in honor and thanksgiving of your blessed bounty. 

Holy Waters, Holy Mountains, I lay my body on your temple in gratefulness for nurturing my tender soul. 

Holy Passion, Holy Longing, I rise up before you a devotee of truth, following wherever you lead me. 

Holy Silence, Holy Solitude, I place my hands over my heart breathing in serenity, breathing out your peace. 

Holy Sorrow, Holy Suffering, I close my hands in prayer may I bear every wound with compassion and nonharm. 

Holy Humility, Holy Emptiness, I bow my head before you I have become open, for your All to shine in my soul. 

Holy Freedom, Holy Rejoicing, I open my heart to the world offering myself to this day, in joyfulness and gratitude. Amen. 

Also, today is a red-letter day in history. Fifty years ago the first lunar space landing happened with humans on board. This was a big deal watched by millions and celebrated widely. But perhaps you did not know that Buzz Aldrin celebrated Holy Communion on the moon. Here is a Guideposts article classic from 1970 that he wrote about the experience. Pretty amazing, and cool, I think.

Blessings.

Day #2026

July 19, 2019

What a wonderful Friday. A busy morning melted into a blessed afternoon as we celebrated a Baptism. In order for parents to be able to attend, we picked a Friday afternoon instead of Sunday morning (work schedules - yuk!). Also, a few folks from the congregation came to witness and show their support. Thank you!

Welcome to God’s family. We give thanks for you and for the gift of baptism! 

Blessings.

Day #2025

July 18, 2019 

The word for the day - thankful. For warm, but not hot days. For people who show appreciation. For folks who speak kind words. And for my “Friday night” and rest.

Yes, I am thankful for the small - and the not so small - things. Grace abounds.

Blessings.

Day #2024

July 17, 2019

We are back home and back at it. Work/duty calls, but I am beyond thankful for good listeners and laughter. Being able to laugh at ourselves is a gift! And a funny story goes a long way!!

Also, I am very sorry there were folks we did not get to see while in NC. The trip was not a vacation, by any means, and time was short with much to do. Hopefully next time! Meanwhile, hugs to all!

Blessings.

Day #2023

July 16, 2019 

Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Genesis 18.1: The Lord appeared to Abraham by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at the entrance of his tent in the heat of the day. (NRSV)

As the story continues, three men visit Abraham, and essentially Sarah, as well. They are men of God. Following Abraham's hurrying to take care of them (with Sarah and the servants’ help), one gives Abraham a blessing - “…your wife Sarah shall have a son.”

Here was Abraham, resting by the trees in the heat of the day, minding his own business, perhaps napping, thinking life probably wouldn’t be much different today than yesterday or tomorrow. Suddenly three men appear out of nowhere. What to do? Ignore them? Be friendly? Show hospitality?  Nod and send them on their way? 

What might you do? I have to admit I just might ignore them and pretend I’m not home (I am thinking about the doorbell ringing). I’m not proud to admit this, but my time at home can be sacred to me. So I wonder, who has been turned away bearing a message for me from God? How often have I missed the presence - and blessing - of God? Hmmm…

Blessings.

Oh, one final moment from NC - we went with sister-in-law and grand-niece for ice cream and hot dogs before our flight. I ordered an ice cream cone for the young one, not knowing that “Mom and dad don’t let me have cones, just cups.” The drips made me realize why. But seriously, what’s ice cream without a cone?!?!

Day #2022

July 15, 2019

After the following conversation, an idea for a new thing was born - a Monday laugh for the week (yes, laughter is needed and appreciated). 

While spending some time in the late afternoon with our grand-niece, who is a very grown-up five year old, we had this humorous exchange. She politely informed me that her birthday is coming soon and she was sad we couldn’t come to her party. But…you could get me something and leave it for me. Or…you could take me to the toy store tomorrow and buy it for me now. Yes, I suppose I could, I told her. But my birthday is coming soon, too. What are you going to do for me for my birthday? She pondered that question for a moment or so, then looked at me and said very seriously, I’m still thinking about what to do for your birthday.

I had to laugh. She’s definitely like her father was at that age! And she’s a joy.

Blessings.

Day #2021

July 14, 2019

After spending a little more time with family, we said our goodbyes and headed back to another part of the state. However, being as close as we have been in many years to the place where my grandparents are buried, we took the opportunity to "go by." 

I remember standing with my grandma by my grandfather’s grave when I was a teen and her saying to me, “You’ll have to come and visit and take care of the graves. No one else is going to do it.” Those words have been hard to swallow as I have moved hundreds of miles away.

The tree that was small when I was a teen has grown to be huge and unhealthy. The gravestones are showing their wear, but the memories of time spent with grandma are as fresh as ever and brought tears, and smiles. 

I’m grateful to my husband for going out of our way to make the visit. And even more grateful that the memories live in my heart and mind, whether I get by the graveside or not.

Blessings.

Day #2020

July 13, 2019 

As the day of the Memorial Service dawned, there was comfort in seeing this:

And kept going we did, even though saying goodbye is not only hard, it can be nearly impossible. But there are things that help - prayer; a large gathering of folks who loved and cared about the one you love; prayer; laughter and tears and hugs and flowers and cards and food and worship; and prayer!

And then there was rest!

Blessings.

Day #2019

July 12, 2019

It seems appropriate to take a break from our current situation to share this picture of a happy young man at one of his favorite places. 

Thank you for the smile, and perspective, dear Godson!!

Blessings.

Day #2018

July 11, 2019 

If you are a regular reader of this blog, you have an idea of how I consider what I do as a pastor to be a gift and a joy. Most days, I am grateful, and humbled, by the opportunity. But today, as we travel with the need to write a message looming over me, I must admit it feels more of a burden. 

Nearly nine years ago, I was honored to preside at the wedding of my husband’s cousin and wife. Now, we are in NC for his Memorial Service, which I also have been honored to be asked to do. I’m thankful to be able to help in this way, but also am coveting prayers. We are all still in shock and this is definitely one message I DO NOT want to write!

But, overall, it is good to be here, reminded that none of us grieve alone. 

Blessings.

Day #2017

July 10, 2019

The word for the day - busy! Trying to get ready to travel is like squishing several days of routine into a few hours. But the 6:00 am flight will leave tomorrow and we had better be on it. Having slept, packed, and gotten ready or not! Yikes!

Blessings.

Day #2016

July 9, 2019

Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from Luke 10:29: But wanting to justify himself, he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” (NRSV)

This line comes from the “Good Samaritan” part of scripture. It is perhaps the most widely incorporated scripture into our daily life. Good Samaritan laws even come from this reading. But who wanted to “justify himself” and why? 

Seems a lawyer has come to Jesus to test him - what must I do to inherit eternal life, he asks. Don’t you wonder what he hoped to gain through his test? Would Jesus answer with something like, follow me, and the lawyer would think he “had him” for claiming to be God? Who knows, but Jesus takes the question seriously and responds with God’s law of love: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your strength, and with all your mind; and your neighbor as yourself.” 

His answer should satisfy the lawyer, but it doesn’t because he wishes to “justify” himself. Perhaps he wishes to show Jesus he understands better than Jesus might think he does, so he asks, “and who is my neighbor?” The one who looks like me, who thinks like me, who lives beside me or goes to the same congregation for worship? Is my neighbor the one who is friendly or reciprocates my kindnesses? 

In true Jesus fashion he answers by telling a parable. His question to the lawyer, then, is who is the true neighbor? The one who shows mercy, the lawyer admits, and Jesus tells him to “go and do likewise.” 

Wow! There’s the tough part, right?! Go and show mercy - to those who don’t look like me, think like me, live beside me or sit in the same pew, or who isn’t friendly or cannot reciprocate. 

What Jesus asks is hard - and honestly, nearly impossible. Good thing “inheriting eternal life” is a gift from God because of grace and not what we do to earn it!!

Blessings.

Day #2015

July 8, 2019

As I mentioned on Day #2005, my husband’s cousin died tragically a few days ago. As we prepare to go to NC for the service and to be with family, I have been thinking a lot about grief and its many aspects. There is sudden grief that can come with a tragic or unexpected death. There is long-time coming, gradual grief, that can be the result of a prolonged illness. There is long-term grief, while we learn to live without a loved one's presence over weeks, years, even decades. There are “stages” of grief, laid out like a path by psychiatrist Elisabeth Kubler-Ross (denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance), but in reality these have nothing to do with moving from one step to another. We can go from denial to anger to acceptance and back in the span of days, even minutes. And I’m not certain acceptance ever really comes, we just learn to live with the “new normal.” The pain of loss can be as sharp as it was when it was new, depending on how a memory, a smell, a place, etc., affects us, for years to come. 

Perhaps the most important learning for me in the midst of many and various kinds of grieving is realizing I am not alone in my grief. None of us are. While we cannot walk the path for someone else, or have someone else walk the path for us, we are “in grief” with others. And most importantly, we are “in grief” with God. And while we may be honest about being angry at God for the person’s death, God understands and is there for us and with us. 

So for all those who are grieving in any way, prayers of comfort and peace. And if I can be a listening ear or a strong (or soft) shoulder, I’m here!

Blessings.

Day #2014

July 7, 2019 

This was a rare opportunity kind of day. We met and spent some time with an ELCA missionary from South America. Gustavo, who works with one of our companion synods, was in town. He is a gracious, soft-spoken, deep-thinking man whose model of accompaniment is inspiring. As we completed our time together, his parting words gave me much to think and dream about - help carry the load with me. 

What ways do we miss allowing others to share their gifts and talents by not asking them to accompany us and help carry the load with us? Definitely something to pray about!

Blessings.

Day #2013

July 6, 2019

The WWII War Birds were in town. For a long time taking a ride in one of these has been on my hubby's wish list. So, for his early birthday present, we booked a flight. 

Happy doesn’t begin to describe him! Here are a couple of pictures:

The above is not the one he flew in...below is:

For the record, his smile when they landed was too big for the camera - haha!

Blessings.

Day #2012

July 5, 2019

July 5th marks the 100th anniversary of Lutheran Outdoor Ministries. What foresight folks had to put aside these places of retreat where youth and adults can get away from the regular routine to be renewed through learning and fun and grace. What an impact these places have had on the church, also - campers who come frightened and anxious but leave filled with joy and excitement; campers who come shy and nervous about leading but leave emboldened to share their faith and take on roles of leadership “back home”; counselors who come for a summer (or several) and one day discern a call to ordained ministry or learn how God is a part of whatever their chosen vocation; pastors who come to teach but leave more educated about youth and young adults and serving and having fun learning about Jesus. 

I give thanks for the camps that have helped shape my faith and understanding: Lutherock, Lutheridge, Camp Agape, Kure Beach Retreat Center, and Flathead Lutheran Bible Camp. And I give thanks for the over 100 more in the ELCA where folks are right now learning and playing and growing in Christ. 

Happy anniversary and well done! May there be many, many more years to come!

Blessings.

Day #2011

July 4, 2019

Everyone...

Blessings!

Day #2010

July 3, 2019 

Perhaps the best part of today is having folks to laugh with and share the scripture with. Thank you to everyone who comes, listens, cares and shares! I am grateful!

Blessings.

Day #2009

July 2, 2019 

Tuesday’s Thoughts on Scripture comes from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 10, verse 1: After this the Lord appointed seventy others and sent them on ahead of him in pairs to every town and place where he himself intended to go. (NRSV)

Jesus sending out folks, two by two, to share the message of God’s love, grace, healing and invitation reminds me of the congregation I was first involved with many years ago. This was a relatively new congregation and some of the effort to help make it grow was to go into the neighborhood to invite folks to come, worship and get involved (not something many Lutheran folks have experience with today, perhaps unfortunately). Anyway, a group of us would meet to go out about once a month to literally knock on the doors of our neighbors and invite them to the congregation. After, we would gather once again to share what happened. 

One of the most memorable stories came when two of the folks rang a doorbell, but when there was no response, one of them looked into the door’s side window to see if they could see anyone. They left, but as they were about two doors down, the police showed up with some questions for them. It seems the person inside who had not responded was concerned there were “peeping Toms” in the neighborhood and called the authorities. We learned a good lesson, and had a good chuckle when they shared their story.

Fortunately, that wasn’t the kind of response we often received. Sometimes we would have good conversations with folks who answered. Sometimes folks would answer and politely send us away. Very seldom were we totally rejected and I don’t ever remember meeting anger or adversity. Sadly, however, only occasionally would someone actually visit the congregation in response to our “door knocking.”

Which reminds me that relationship really makes the difference when inviting people to worship. More people come into a congregation because someone they know and trust invites them personally than any other way. Spending time together, being friends and committing our lives to theirs is the authenticity folks desire.

Jesus certainly had a purpose in sending out the folks in pairs to random towns and villages. And they returned excited over the response (I invite you to read the rest of Chapter 10). But perhaps the basic message isn’t the going out, but the need to leave our “baggage” behind us so that we aren’t distracted, and that we stay with one person until the message is given and received. Then let God do the “saving” work. 

Blessings.

Day #2008

July 1, 2019

In the midst of an article about Rachel Carson, a marine biologist who decades ago recognized the negative environmental impact of the pesticide DDT and fought for its elimination, I read this about a female visitor who had gone to the area where Carson did much of her research: “...one woman drops to her knees in the sand. ‘I could sit here the rest of my life,’ she says. ‘This is my favorite thing to do at the coast, just sit and take it all in. The way it smells. The way it feels. You look out at the water and it’s infinity.’” Then this: “‘To stand at the edge of the sea,’ Carson wrote, [...] is to have knowledge of things that are as nearly eternal as any earthly life can be.’” 

It made me stop and take a deep breath because those words could have easily been said by my friend Cindy, whose one year anniversary of death comes on Wednesday. In my mind’s eye, I can see her sitting on the sand, just watching and being at peace. It’s a beautiful memory (the above picture was taken in 2014 on one of our trips to the ocean in Georgia, in order that we could remember the feeling even when we were far inland).

My hope today is that she is now at a peace that far surpasses even the one she found sitting by the sea. Faith trusts that she is. 

Thank you for words that made me smile in the midst of a difficult week. 

Blessings.

Day #2007

June 30, 2019

The following was written by Shelley Cunningham in the daily devotion, God Pause:

So why do you follow Jesus? Take some time to mull it over, and jot down your best two or three reasons. They don't have to be complicated or overly theological. They just have to be true for you. Because the beautiful thing is, the One we follow promises to lead each of us--wherever we may be, and however we may need to be led. 

This is something good to ponder, and to do. It’s important to think through why we do what we do in following Jesus, so that we can easily, and authentically, share an answer with others. So, why DO you follow Jesus? 

Then, what a great adventure followed worship as several teams of folks went out into the neighborhood to pick up litter. It was a way of being the church in the community as we cared for the area around us. What was fun was to hear about the interactions with folks - why are you doing this? Where are you from? And perhaps the best - folks who simply said, Thank you (or shouted it from cars as they drove by)! 

Blessings.