#pastorsperspective

Happy Friday! Sundays sermon was titled, "Bah, HUMBUG!". The scripture was from Isaiah 9:2-6. If you missed it, you can listen to the message here: https://fb.watch/oO_qfcOxQG/ Skip to the 40 minute mark to go straight to the sermon.

It's not a new subject, or a new message. I have no questions about the message and none were submitted. "It's the most wonderful time of the year" and yet the same feelings of "Scroogeness" persist. Christmas isn't magical for everyone. Christmas can be very difficult for some people for a multitude of reasons and I think we deserve to acknowledge that. Scrooge lived alone. He was older, portrayed as bitter, selfish, miserly... What if he was just lonely and overwhelmed by all the expectations of the world? HE didn't have money troubles and could have easily been very generous. So, there's one thing he had going for him that many don't this time of year.

Fourteen years ago I read my favorite thing that I have ever read on the topic of Christmas, ever. It's by christian radio personality and author Brant Hansen. Whos books Unoffendable, The Truth About Us, The Men We Need, and Blessed Are The Misfits, I highly recommend. (New book: Life is Hard, God is Good, Let's Dance - releasing January 16th) It's from his blog: Brant's Blog of Awesomeness: The Krusty Sage. As someone who has always struggled with Christmas and the commercialism aspect and the overwhelming push to make all things "magical", I'm going to share it with you now. It's probably going to step on your toes...

The Krusty Sage Says, "Quit Buying Stuff You Can't Afford for Christmas"

(Once again, a warning about the Krusty sage: He's krusty. That means he's pretty opinionated. He plans no offense to anyone in particular, and has no one in particular in mind. If you're offended, please feel free to let me know, and I'll pass it along. He's usually easy for me to find.)

"Oh, but it's Christmas! It's a special time of the year! I know, we're in debt, overall, but it's Christmas, and that's only once a year and..."

"And..." you're nuts. Seriously.

The Sage says it in love. The Sage also says, in love, that if you spend $150 on your kid for Christmas when you don't have $150, you're not only giving your kid a neat-o Nano, you're giving your kid a gift that keeps on giving: The gift of foolishness, surrounded by beautiful lights, the scent of pine, and fudge. The gift of foolishness, on display, etched in memory. Ah.

Yes, Target and Apple and Best Buy don't advertise many $30 gifts, and they've ratcheted up the expectation level for Christmas. But-- last time I checked -- your will remains free. This means you don't have to be a doof.

Yes, your parents may have overspent every year as you grew up. Yes, they may have been Baby Boomers, seeking to atone for parental guilt, for one or another reason. Yes, there may have been stacks of presents under your tree. Yes, you think this is the way Christmas "is supposed to be".

Yes, so what.

Christmas is not "supposed to be" you, buying stuff you don't have money for. Sorry. If you're a dad, and feel bad because you can't spend hundreds on everybody, tell them you don't have the money for it, and you'll still have a great Christmas. If that makes you feel bad, man up. You're being bullied by a bunch of advertising majors.

Gee, you're in debt? How'd that happen? This is a mystery. Someone call a C.S.I. unit. Maybe they can figure out what happened. Maybe they can piece it together.

Or maybe you bought a bunch of stuff that's ultimately worthless. Maybe you should stop it. Maybe Christmas isn't special at all. Maybe it's just the latest excuse to overspend. Gee. Huh. Wow. Gosh. You think?

"Okay, we're in debt, and yeah, we did buy a $1,200 TV, but it's not that simple, because sometimes --"

No, it is that simple. Sorry. Next?

"But everyone at my kids' school gets tons of expensive gifts like 360s and Wiis and stuff and --" Are you in debt? "Well, yes, but it's not that simple, and --"

Nope. It's that simple.

"But it's not realistic to spend only $20 per person in this day and age, and --" Why? "It's just not that simple, and --"

Waah.

If you don't have the money for it, you don't buy it. Don't act like your kid "needs" a Zune, either. It has nothing to do with "needs", or even your kid, really. It has everything to do with you: Your desire to have some kind of "perfect Christmas", your guilt, your insecurities, your conflict-avoidance, your expectations, and you know, just generally... you.

Bottom line: You wish you a merry Christmas.

"But isn't 'Christmas' in the Bible, and --" No.

Sheesh.

The Krusty Sage 12/9/2008 Ancient Wisdom for No One in Particular

Now, the reason I share this is because I grew up in a home (during years spent with parents) that went big for Christmas. Going big for Christmas often meant that there would be utilities cut off in January and beyond. No phone, or heat, or some other necessity like adequate groceries. I always understood the cost of everything and grew to greatly resent the holiday as I found heat a much more pleasant thing to have in northern Illinois than say, that pair of roller skates and the other dozen items that were glittery and supposed to be fun and "magical". Which is, perhaps, why this blog post really spoke to me when I first read it fourteen years ago, why I still read it every year, and why my family and I choose to 'celebrate' Christmas much differently than your average family.

Advent has officially begun. I saw your Scrooge book on the table in your office and the title of your coming sermon this week is “Bah, Humbug”. How does this year's advent theme differ from last year's theme of The Heart That Grew Three Sizes? 

So, the Advent theme is the same every year. Themes like Scrooge and the Grinch give Advent a bit of a dun theme to help grasp onto as well as keep it fresh and the themes allow the concepts of Advent (Peace, Hope, Love, and Joy) to be relatable in deeply practical and theological ways. Grinch and Scrooge have so much in common and yet at the same time such a different context and story for a lens to look through at the Nativity and Advent season. 

Are both studies by the same person? 

Both studies are by Rev. Matt Rawle of the Louisiana Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. He has many studies out but his big hits are developing the Advent story and Methodist theology through popular literature. 

What draws you to the study you have chosen for this year?

I chose Scrooge because of how known and relatable the story is to so many people. Everyone knows who Scrooge is, and yet at the same time we don't have a clue where he came from and what’s happened in his life to make him the person he is and what he finds in the Spirit of Christmas that we can all hold in our hearts all year long. 

 Is A Christmas Carol one of your favorite Christmas books/movies? 

It is my all-time favorite Christmas movie and story of all time. Don't get me wrong I love the Grinch, but the Scrooge and me are besties! I encourage everyone to buy the book and follow along and watch/read A Christmas Carol as well as watch the movie The Man Who Invented Christmas. 

There are sooo many versions and remakes of the movie, A Christmas Carol. Which one is your favorite? 

Hands down the George C. Scott version. It’s the one I grew up on and have loved for so long. 

There are a lot of good ones! I liked the Mickey Mouse one when I was a kid. However, the one they came out with last year, Spirited, with Ryan Reynolds and Will Ferrell has quickly grown into my favorite. Probably because it speaks to my sarcastic sense of humor. I'm not sure that's necessarily a good thing, but I digress.

Join us on Sunday for the first Sunday of Advent, Peace. And for Pastor Chad's sermon titled, "Bah, HUMBUG!" In the meantime, have a fantastic weekend, keep warm, and enjoy this clip from Spirited!

Hello again. This past Sunday was All Saints Sunday. A time to reflect on the people we have lost in the last year. If you missed the service, you watch it here: https://fb.watch/oei63bHY6e/

Different cultures honor their dearly departed in different ways. Typically, here in the western culture, we have funerals or memorials to honor a person’s life and to say good bye. Usually followed by a potluck where people sit around eating and sharing memories of their loved one.

In the Hawaiian culture it is traditional to wear a maile lei or an orchid lei to funerals or memorial services to celebrate the beautiful life of the deceased.

In some Native American cultures, it is customary to tie feathers around the head as a form of prayer.

In China, it is unacceptable to wear red to a funeral or while in the mourning period. However, if the person lived to be over the age of 80, then it is acceptable to wear white with pink or red as their long life is cause for celebration.

In every culture, death is painful. We miss those we’ve lost. We think of them often and it’s hard to fill the void they leave behind.

This week we remember:

Paula Jean (Curtner) Bowen, age 82, passed away Monday, November 7, 2022, at her home in Jacksboro, Texas. She was born on June 9, 1940, in Shawnee, Oklahoma to Paul and Veda Bernice (Breashears) Curtner. Paula married Brooks L. Bowen and were married for over 20 years. Together they raised two great sons, Brady and Blake Bowen. Throughout her life Paula was a former Miss Jack County, a member of the First United Methodist Church of Jacksboro, and a member of the National Cutting Horse Association. Paula was a very loving, caring, generous person and will be missed by all. Paula is preceded in death by her parents and sister Neta Jo Yates. Those left behind to cherish her memory are her children, Brady Bowen and wife Laura of Jacksboro and Blake Bowen and wife Michelle of Runaway Bay; grandchildren, Scarlett Bowen and Weston Bowen; brother, P.D. Curtner; along with many extended family members and friends.

Beverly Ann (Black) Shoun went to be with her Heavenly Father on Thursday, October 5, 2023, surrounded by her loving family. Beverly was born to William James Black and Florence Almarine (Parsons) Black on September 1, 1945. She grew up in Jacksboro, Texas and graduated from Jacksboro High School in 1963. She and her husband James Shoun were united in marriage on August 15, 1964, in the First Baptist Church of Jacksboro. She was a very devoted wife and mother and loved caring for her family. Beverly spent many years working in daycare. She loved children and they brought her much joy. Her mother established the first nursery for the First Baptist Church of Jacksboro and Beverly spent many years serving in the Church daycare. She could point out a child she cared for out of a crowd and immediately tell you how amazing and unique they were. Beverly was a proud grandmother to her one and only granddaughter, Macon Joi. She was Macon’s biggest cheerleader and found so much joy in watching her grow. Beverly was a longtime member of the First Baptist Church of Jacksboro and was a Past Matron of Jacksboro Order of Eastern Star Chapter No 390 and also a Deputy Grand Matron in 2011-2012. She was preceded in death by her parents, Bill and Almarine Black; her brother William (Bill) Black and her brother-in-law, Jimmy Williams. Beverly is survived by her husband James Shoun; son Brent Shoun; daughter Brenda Shoun; son Brian Shoun; and granddaughter Macon Shoun. Also, her sisters Shirley Johnson and Lorraine Williams, and sister-in-law Barbara Black. Nephews Don Johnson, Ron Johnson, Eddy Williams, and Brad Black. Nieces Sheryl Wiles, Jennifer Williams Ansel, Belinda Black Clift, and several great nieces and nephews.

Laurendee Leigh Hearn (Fowler), lovingly known as Laurie, passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Monday, September 18, 2023, in Plano, Texas. She was born on May 6, 1960, in Breckenridge, Texas to Larry Laverne Phariss and Bertha Gladys (Bayne) Pharris. Laurie was a Live Oak Baptist Church member for many years and loved to sing in the church choir. In her spare time, Laurie enjoyed spending time outdoors with her family, crocheting and making afghans, reading mystery novels, and watching John Wayne movies when she wasn’t recording her many TV shows. Most of all, she had a love for people and making them smile whenever she could. She will truly be missed by those who loved and knew her. Laurie is preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Michael and Dennis; and son, Buddy Joe Fowler. Those left behind to cherish her memory include her children, Lacy Westbrook and Billy Fowler and wife Ashley; grandchildren, Brenton, Parker, Tripp, Kaden, Cohen, Kyle, Savannah, Aiden and Connor; siblings, Melissa Farris and husband Clinton and Keith Phariss and wife Becky; along with her nieces (who lovingly called her Aunt Poncho), nephews, extended family and friends.

Jennifer Lynn Miller, age 38, passed away Wednesday, April 26, 2023, in Jack County, Texas. She was born on October 13, 1984, in Dublin, Texas to Larry Floyd Miller Sr. and Norma Ann Lopez. Jennifer was a hard-working mom of 4. She loved her family. She had a big personality and was full of life. She loved to cook and serve others. She always had a smile on her face and truly enjoyed helping other people. She made an impact on the lives she encountered and will never be forgotten. Jennifer is survived today by her children, Jessarae and Jasmine Soria, and Jacob and Jonathan Garza; parents, Larry Floyd Miller Sr. and Norma Ann Lopez Miller; siblings, Sherri Miller, Terri Miller, Larry Miller Jr., Pete Miller, and Chrissy Bennett; along with many extended family and friends.

Charlotte Sue Reynolds, affectionately known as Meemee, went to be with her Heavenly Father on Friday, September 8, 2023, at the age of 81. Sue was born on July 3, 1942, in Bowie, Texas to Ila Faye Cozart-Hankins and Joe Burton Hankins. At just the age of 14, she met the love of her life, Marvin Leon Reynolds Jr. They were married on July 9, 1961, at the First Baptist Church in Bowie, Texas, and were happily married until his passing in 2022. Sue and Marvin’s love story was like none other, their dedication to one another, unconditional love, and resilience are examples that will live on in the lives of the people they touched and the families they leave behind. Shortly after being married, they moved to Jacksboro, Texas in 1962 and became devoted members of the First Baptist Church in 1965. Members of First Baptist could always count on Marvin and Sue sitting in their back pew holding hands. Sue’s heart overflowed with love for God's people. She was steadfast in her calling to serve the youth of Jacksboro through her volunteer work at the First Baptist Church nursery and 20-plus years of working at Jacksboro Elementary. As a mother Sue would do anything she could for her children. From creating extravagant doll houses from cutouts of magazines, leading Girl Scout Troops, baking for every event, and holding them through their nightmares, she assured her kids had an abundance of care and love. Her devotion to care for her children was amplified through her love for her grandchildren. From sick days at Meme’s to spending every holiday at her house, her family cherishes all the memories that she made special. Sue was also a longtime supporter of all Jacksboro ISD sporting events, usually having a child, grandchild, or great-grandchild playing. Rain or shine, cold or hot, you could always find her there rooting for the Tigers and Tigerettes until her health would not allow her to attend. Although she will be so missed, her family and friends find comfort in knowing she is back in the arms of her loving husband and holding her baby boy. She is preceded in death by her husband, Marvin Leon Reynolds Jr., her son, Cody Joe Reynolds, and her parents; brothers in law, Jerry Richardson and Howard Reynolds. Those left behind to cherish her memory are her children, Dondi Leonetta Sanders and husband Billy, Tina Tyann Ward and husband Mike, Marvin Leon (Trey) Reynolds III and wife Sandra, all from Jacksboro; grandchildren, Kizzie Sanders-Bogle and husband Ryan, Bo Ward and wife Windi, Chanz Sanders and wife Tyrissa, Blaze Mathis and husband Josh, Bailey Francis and husband Cal, Ranczy Johnson and husband Bubba, Trinity Reynolds, Teagan Reynolds, Tradyn Reynolds, Tessa Reynolds, Dominic Marquez & Elijah Reynolds and Lana Reynolds; great-grandchildren, Macie and Kylie Karnes, Collynz, Eazton, and Steele Sanders, Lilly, Tripp, and Mollie Francis, Bo Monroe and Penn Ward, Tula Belle Mathis; brother, Ronnie Hankins and wife Jackie Sue Hankins; Sister in law, Patrica Richardson; brother in law, Roger Reynolds and wife Sandy; Sue is also survived by many extended family members, close friends, and neighbors.

Floyd Donald Mathis went to be with his Heavenly Father on Monday, October 23, 2023, surrounded by his loving family after a brief battle with cancer. He was born on February 12, 1938, to Floyd Lee and Juanita (Bottoms) Mathis. Donald was raised in Jack County, Texas, and graduated from Jacksboro High School in 1956. He worked as an oilfield mechanic, farmer, and rancher for many years. He was also a 64-year member of the Fort Richardson Masonic Lodge and was a Past Master. Donald is preceded in death by his parents, Floyd and Juanita Mathis, and his brother, Rex Mathis. Those left behind to cherish his memory include his son Tim Mathis and wife Patricia; two granddaughters, Kalyn Qualls and husband Michael of Jacksboro, Texas, and Kassie Davis and husband Blake of Bellevue, Texas; four great-grandchildren, Carter, Emma, Kameron, and Blake; sister-in-law, Joan Mathis; along with numerous nieces and nephews.

It’s that time again. Time to reflect on things we learned from Sunday’s sermon. Things we’ve hopefully thought about throughout the week, pondered, questioned… If you missed it, you can watch the service here: https://fb.watch/nTAAwqsWLy/ A special Thank You to Mrs. Laura Rothe for assembling and directing the bell choir, The Joyful Ringers!

The message this week focused on the importance of taking care of yourself. Having balance, health, wholeness, and holiness in our lives. Of all the things you mentioned and all the ways that you suggested we use to take care of our spirit, body, and mind; I noticed one common theme and was fully prepared to ask about it. Then a funny thing happened. Someone else submitted the same question and it made me laugh because we don't get a lot of question submissions for one, and two, it was exactly what I was going to ask. So, for myself and at least one other person out there: Of all the ways you suggested self-care, you mentioned taking a walk four times. Is there some biblical significance or special importance to taking a walk?

Great question! So, certainly there was a LOT of walking in Biblical times and even Jesus demonstrates taking a walk alone at times to pray and be with God. But this was mentioned more because taking a walk is such an easy and accessible act that hits on all of the areas of Good Medicine mentioned. When we take a walk, we are acting physically, the rhythmic pattern of steps can be a pattern for prayer and finding comfort in the constant and consistent stepping. Walking allows the mind time to process in an emotionally healthy way because the act does not require full attention. The mind can process and think through emotions. Walking and crying, yelling, etc… can be very therapeutic and allow emotional health to flourish while at the same time thinking about fond memories, lost loved ones, and appreciating present loved ones can be done also which can be very powerful! As a Native I often sing Native hymns and Christian hymns while I walk, which is therapeutic and healthy on many levels! Walking is just such a great first step to finding balance and holiness. 

I completely agree. This year has been a big one for me regarding self-care and walking has been at the core of it for mental, physical, and spiritual health. For all the reasons you stated. I can listen to music while doing it, be alone with my thoughts and prayers, cry, scream- if need be, or simply enjoy nature around me if I’m outdoors or the virtual sights I can see if I’m indoors. I have seen places virtually this year that I will probably never get to see in my lifetime, and have re-visited one that I have been to and it has been a wonderful adventure. If anyone is interested, I use an app called The Conqueror to take virtual hikes all over the world and have traversed 580 miles so far this year through Israel, Holland, New Zealand, Germany, Los Angeles; and am currently hiking my way through the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil via my living room treadmill. There’s a mental clarity that comes when you shut everything else out and just take a walk with yourself, with your thoughts, with God…

However you choose to take the best care of yourself in your quiet time, know that you are never alone. I know that on my walks, I am never walking alone. When you read, when you go for a drive to clear your head, when you sit by the water or just stare off into space. You are never alone. Just like the song says:

I have never walked alone I’ve never been abandoned You are my inheritance You are my strength and shield And I have confidence You go before me You’re my deliverer I know I never walk alone

So, whatever you do today, do it with the peace and confidence of someone who knows beyond a shadow of a doubt that God is walking right there beside you. If you enjoy contemporary worship music, please take a listen to this song from Hillsong Worship.

Never Walk Alone

Friday has arrived once again so, let’s dive into a discussion about last Sunday’s message. If you missed it, you can watch it here: https://fb.watch/nOwFXEC3kT/ The service was a continuation of The Open Table series of cultural services. This one focusing on LatinX culture. The guest preacher was Rev. Julia Puac Romero with guest musicians, Revs. Juan and Eliana Rios and the Trietsch UMC Choir.

Pastor Chad, we all know the difference between Mary and Martha and why we need to be more like Mary, but what are some benefits to being a Martha? Can we learn anything from being a Martha?

(Selfishly asking as a lifelong Martha...)

After the service I told Pastor Julia how much I appreciated her take on the Mary Martha text. Often, we think of this as an either-or, one or the other kind of thing. You are either a Mary and need to embrace your Martha a bit in service or are typically a Martha and need to embrace your Mary and find rest in the Lord. What I loved was that she approached this from a place of balance, how can we find balance in being both Mary and Martha? She also spoke of the importance of both women's roles. Martha represents tradition to Pastor Julia, and Mary represents innovation. In indigenous cultures that can be a hard balancing act as traditions run deep and are often hard to escape. Pastor Julia did a wonderful job of alluding to our need to embrace tradition while at the same time embracing fresh approaches to worshipping God and being disciples of Jesus Christ by the power of the Holy Spirit. I LOVE THIS! Her take was very refreshing and I loved that she approached this with such an emphasis on balance between the two. I think Mary and Martha are a sort of yin and yang for us Christians, encouraging us to ask ourselves how we can find balance in both types. So, in a long-winded fashion, YES! There very much is a way to embrace your Martha. We need hard workers in the life of the church, and this is where the Marthas come in. Pastor Julia did a wonderful job of highlighting the reality that Jesus did not tell Martha to not be a Martha at all, just simply that she needed to embrace what Mary was doing more. 

The idea being that, in life, as with most things; moderation is key? Knowing that there is a time and a place for everything. There’s a time to sit and be Mary and there’s a time to work and be Martha. Both are needed and both exist in each of us, but we need to learn how to discern when is the most appropriate time for each of these? (This can be the hard part.) 

Absolutely! So, I think the best guide for this is the Holy Spirit. I think the Holy Spirit who is with us always believe us and guidance in our discipleship in both a Mary and Martha Way. The trick is always being listen! I also think it’s important to Realize what our natural tendencies are. If we are naturally, a Martha, then we need to be watchful when we are getting tired, burned out, and overwhelmed, so we can transition into a Mary. Vice versa, as Mary’s we need to be watchful when things around us need to be done, or are not getting done, and willing to switch into Martha. The reality is there is joy in both seasons, as both Mary and Martha. 

Maybe that’s the part Martha really struggled with? Her sense of duty and responsibility. The feeling that if she didn’t do all the things, the things just wouldn’t get done. There sat Jesus, wanting nothing more than to spend time with both of them, yet only one was able to let go of that and make herself available. How do we teach ourselves to recognize these moments when it would be more advantageous to surrender to our inner Mary? Sometimes we just don’t recognize them when they come. 

I think what Jesus is really teaching Martha is that no one person can do all the things. And, it really shouldn’t be that way in the first place we understand God is a triangle, meaning that we have a God, who is three and one and one and three. Theologically this is very important, because it establishes who God truly is as a communal and social God. God is yes one, but also three at the same time. These three act in perfect harmony with the others. The very essence of who God is depends on the various person God is made up of. We have God, who is the father, God, who is the son, and God, who is Holy Spirit. The point being, we are not designed to be solo heroes in this world, and even more in our faith. The church, the body of Christ, is made up of many parts, and these parts, all work together for the same mission that Christ gave us. Yes, we need Martha to do the work of the church in serving, building, proclaiming, loving, and so much more. But at the same time, we have to realize that there are not certain people that are Martha, and Others that are Mary. We are all Martha and Mary! We also need Mary, time to rest to not only fill ourselves, but be there to fill others on their own spiritual Journeys.

I never thought about it like that, but it is easier to wrap my head around the concept of both persons existing in harmony inside of myself when I think about the trinity of God existing. It isn’t something that is easy to explain or even grasp, it’s just something that IS. We just accept that it IS. The same is true of knowing that these traits, these Mary and Martha traits can co-exist in all of us and all we need to do is to be aware and watch for what needs to be happening in the moments we are in. Living in the moment may be the hardest part of that assignment, I think. Being in tune and aware with what needs to be the most important thing happening in any given situation. I guess that’s why God gives us the spirit of discernment. We’re supposed to use it.

I appreciate you explaining it to me. Sometimes I need things broken down into more manageable bite sized pieces. This week I challenge us all to be more mindful of the moments we are in. To take the time to be like Mary when the situation calls for it, or to be like Martha when it’s needed. But most importantly, the challenge is to know the difference and choose wisely.

Wishing everyone a wonderful Friday! This last Sunday we got a unique look into a Native American service. If you we unable to join us, you can watch the service here: https://fb.watch/nFqgH10mn2/ This weeks blog questions were all submitted by someone who was sitting in that service and I am delighted to have been able to send them along to Pastor Chad, and to be able to share those answers with all of you.

What can we do to spread awareness about the tragedies the indigenous people have faced/are still facing today?

I think the first step is to acknowledge them and understand what actually happened. There are so many misconceptions and unknown parts of this history so I say first educating ourselves is huge. After that be a voice for the injustice and for hope for the future. Spread the truth and find ways to stand in solidarity (MMIW, MMIP, Orange Shirt Day). 

What is one stereotype about Native American people that you feel needs to stop?

I think the worst stereotype that needs to stop is that Native American people are generally uneducated and ignorant. The truth is so many people (Natives) have done so much and have been so successful and many of us are so educated in many different ways.  

What's one thing about Indigenous culture or people that others can't seem to understand?

In my opinion is that we have been a spiritual people who have believes in God far before anyone brought. Christianity to our people. 

What can we do to try and make up for the past? Or can we?

I think we can’t go back and redo the past but we can look to the future. There is so much injustice still happening and this is where change can happen. We are called to serve the present age and God certainly has work for us to do. 

Should we feel responsible for how Indigenous people were treated by our ancestors?

Yes and no. Yes, colonialism and imperialism have impacted society so much and are still present today in many harmful ways. At the same time, we did not commit these egregious acts but need make sure these acts never repeat themselves. We can learn, appreciate, and honor others as different as they may be from ourselves. 

Is there anything that Indigenous people believe, or believe in, that doesn't align with Christian/Methodist beliefs?

For the most part no, there are other religions within Native communities that don't align entirely with Christianity but for the OIMC and Baptist Native Associations others they are completely Christian and the OIMC completely Methodist. 

Happy Friday! The time has come again to reflect on last Sunday’s sermon with Pastor Chad. If you were unable to be with us, you can listen to the message here: https://www.youtube.com/live/b9-mi9JIsD8?si=4djpPZh_rNIv7JOg The Title of the sermon is: “Room at the Table – Judas the Betrayer” and the accompanying scripture is from Luke: 22:1-6. Skip to minute mark 37:45 to go straight to the sermon.

So, this was a heavy one… You asked a variation of the question I was thinking in the message itself, and touched on an answer briefly, but maybe you can expand on that. We're called to forgive, as God forgives us, but does that mean that we must continue to put ourselves in the path of the person, or persons, who harmed us? 

Absolutely not, I was clear that we have to be very mindful of abuse and there are certainly times where we need to step away as the best choice for our own safety, health, and well-being. But that doesn't mean we hate them, and let that hate consume us. Jesus was fulfilling scripture and whether it had been Judas, the Pharisees themselves, Roman government, or you name it, this was all going to end the same way one way or the other. What Jesus demonstrates is the ability to love despite what was done to him and this is the call we have upon our lives. There is certainly a balancing act to this, but when we let love and grace drive instead of hate and anger, this is when we step into a deeper discipleship. 

I see a quote go around on Facebook quite a bit from a rapper I remember from the 90s, Tupac Shakur, that says, "Just because you lost me as a friend, doesn't mean you gained me as an enemy. I'm bigger than that. I still wanna see you eat, just not at my table." In a lot of ways that really resonates with me. It's something we have lost as a society. The ability to recognize that it's not an either-or situation. It's not love OR hate. I can love you and still not have you be an active participant in my life and have healthy boundaries with you, can't I?

I love this quote, and as seen above the answer is always yes. It’s no different with the churches who have disaffiliated. They left for theological and structural differences. We don't hate them; we don't wish they would close and not bring the gospel to those who attend there. We hope for the opposite, that they will do well and spread the love of Christ to all those that go there. Sure, it may slightly different than our way and beliefs, but that’s ok. John Wesley is credited having said, “We may not think alike, but can we not love alike?” To that I say YES!!!! 

Absolutely!! I read an article that spoke to this very thing. It asked the question, have you ever heard someone criticize the building of a homeless shelter in their neighborhood because they didn't want drug addicts and "those types" of people in their community? Have you heard the same kind of criticism for giving to the food pantry? The idea being, why should I give my money and my resources to people who continuously make choices that leave them without food and shelter? How would you answer them?

So, I have heard this kind of thinking from other Churches in our community, but honestly not ours. There are many people and churches in our community who feel a servant’s heart and give so freely, for them I am so thankful and love their spirit. If I had to answer those who don't share this same spirit I would simply say, “so you are in no way in need of God’s grace and don't require it daily, then?” See we like to simply think of justifying grace which is God’s grace that imparts and imputes righteousness into our lives making us right again with, or atone (at one) with God again. The truth is this is but one facet to God’s grace, sanctifying grace is the grace that moves us daily to be more like Christ after we say yes to Jesus in justifying grace. The point is this, we all need God’s grace every single day. Whether that be in a canned good or a measure of forgiveness or even a friendly smile, we are no different from anyone else in the reality that we all need love and grace (PERIOD)!

Well, I know I certainly do. Even on my worst day, thinking about the people who have hurt me the most in this life. I agree with Tupac… I still want to see them eat, just not at my table. I’m not going to share any old Tupac music with you. I’m not a rap fan, but I will share with you my favorite song on the topic of forgiveness. Aptly titled: Forgiveness by Matthew West

My favorite line:

It’s the opposite of how you feel

When the pain they caused is just too real

Takes everything you have to say the word

Here we are, we’ve come to another Friday! It’s time to discuss another sermon. If you weren’t with us, the title of Sunday’s sermon was, “The Way That Leads to Life (Hold My Mule) – Simon the Zealot “ and the scripture was from Acts 21: 17-20. You can watch the service here: https://www.youtube.com/live/9akwZ7ZpsIc?si=TEsC-EjaRvXYYxIt The sermon begins at 38:16.

Pastor Chad, I KNOW I’m going to ruffle some feathers for even thinking it, much less for asking it, but it’s the only thing I could think of while listening to the sermon. You talked about old John and how he just couldn’t help but to sing, and shout, and dance in church in praise to his God for all that he had been blessed with. Sadly, he had “joined an uptight, spiritually dead church” who sent their deacons to intervene and ask him to stop. Well, we, (the collective we as a group of people, not individuals specifically) do not shout, dance, or sing off script in church. Would we be considered an uptight, spiritually dead church? 

So maybe a better way of asking it is: "How do you think our church fits with singing, shouting, and praising God in worship?"

To that, I would say we are a more traditional congregation that normally does not engage in those forms of worship practice, but I would also say I believe and hope that we wouldn't ever condemn anyone for doing these things either. I think the topic of spiritual expression is one that continually needs to be addressed in the life of the church today and in many ways has hit a bit of a dead end in some opinions. I made a shout-out to my book that is coming out this week/next week and I think this is something I address in depth as I explore the intersection of Native American and Christian spiritual living. There is a saying in Oklahoma among the Native churches up there, "We may not have much, but we make up for that with what we do have spiritually." To that, I say AMEN! This is so true, churches up there are smaller, less funded, and not near as elaborate as many others across the nation, but the spirit of the people and how they connect with God is amazing and often makes me wonder about this thing called spirituality. Yes, we should be able to sing, dance, shout, and praise God in worship how we feel moved by the spirit, but "Hold My Mule" goes much deeper than that. It is about a willingness and relentlessness to sing, praise, and shout glory to God in a society and time that isn't too keen to hear these. The thing about this singing, praising, and shouting is we don't do it for those around us, we do it for the God who gives us so much. John (from the story) wouldn't back down, he couldn't back down. He was so thankful and in love with God that he HAD to do these things because he would be dishonoring the wonderful God who had provided so much if he hadn't. I think this is the message that we need to take on in our zealous faith of God. I think of the Matt Redman Song "Dancing Generation" which goes: 

"Your mercy taught us how to dance

To celebrate with all we have And we'll dance to thank You for mercy Your glory taught us how to shout To lift Your name in all the earth And we'll shout to the praise of Your glory It's the overflow of a forgiven soul And now we've seen You, God Our hearts cannot stay silent And we'll be a dancing generation Dancing because of Your great mercy, Lord Your great mercy, Lord And we'll be a shouting generation Shouting because of Your great glory, Lord Your great glory, Lord

This is who we are called to be, a singing, shouting, generation for God who doesn't hold back and is unwavering in our praise. 

I love that song, and I agree with all of that, but what would you say to someone who says that they find that kind of praise, that kind of expression of worship irreverent and distracting?

I would say that we have to understand that there are two main approaches to praise, charismatic and reverent. We should be open to expressions others than our own. David danced for God in the Bible, those who encountered Jesus had a myriad of different reactions, from reverence to charismatic. Just because we may approach worship more reverent doesn't mean that’s the only way or even the better way. I think being versatile is a great approach. Being able to be reverent at times and charismatic at times can open us up to a plethora of praise expressions and help us experience God in many different ways. 

It brings to mind one of my grandfather’s favorite phrases, “there’s more than one way to skin a cat.” Which would always draw a disapproving glare and a groan from my grandmother, but that’s essentially what you’re saying. I, for one, have always felt more worshipful when sitting on the floor. People really look at you crossways when you do that in church. You learn not to do things that aren’t deemed “socially acceptable” in church and that can make it difficult to worship authentically. How do we step out of that box?

So, in the Taizé community worship like this is very custom. I think anytime we can change our perspective and worship in different ways it’s very powerful. We will get a dose of this in October as we worship in Native American and LatinX style ways. There’s great power to tradition, but exploring news ways can always open new ways for the Spirit to move. I also think we need to, again, be respectful of varying ways of worship that are not our own typical practices. Embrace and support those around us who worship differently than us. I have always found God in powerful ways when I stepped beyond my comfort zones in worship. 

There you have it. Coming up in October we have a couple culturally diverse services planned for you with guest preachers and musicians designed to take us places in worship where most of us have probably never been before. I’m looking forward to it!

Have a fabulous weekend everyone! Enjoy this song mentioned by Pastor Chad! I am part of the Dancing Generation!