On the Journey

Snakes and Other Slimy Things

2012-01-30T10:58:00.003-06:00

Yesterday in church I spoke of an experience during my elementary years which a class bully threatened me with a live snake. Somehow at that young age I was smart enough to understand that if I allowed myself to be intimidated by him, I would face his power over me over and over again. He left me alone after the incident.

It's easy for me to recognize when I am on the receiving end of a slimy or disparaging comment. When I am at a good place, I can look for any nugget of truth that might be lurking within the comments. When I am not, I either brood over the words or verbally lash out.

I can't help but notice that sometimes I am the one holding the snake, trying to get my way. God help me when I try to manipulate those around me. Jesus' words in the Sermon on the Mount have caused me to stop and re-look at how I speak and work.

On the journey,
Alecia

Falling Into Place

2012-01-24T13:51:00.002-06:00

Last week I fell. My fault when I look back on it. I was rushing. It was snowing. I was in my heeled boots because of an outdoor graveside later. Wet boot heels on tiled floors were never made to go together. I have been sore... and whiny for the last few days. The fall has made me appreciate my body, which I so often take for granted.

While I was sporting a heat wrap a couple of days ago I was thinking about the church. It is so easy to take the church body and our life together for granted. The building, the activities, the ministries, the worship, the staff-- each aspect offers so much to our spiritual lives. Even when the body is hurting, in this case financially, I find myself amazed at the depth of concern and response from the membership. I don't know why it surprises me. I have walked this journey with you for 10+ years. Thank you for your work and ministry here at the church.

Perhaps out of the pain of the journey we will be reminded of the amazing life together that we share in this place.

On the journey,
Alecia

Forgiveness

2012-01-16T12:45:00.002-06:00

As I continue to reflect on the Beatitudes, I am struck at how these simple words have such an impact on my daily life. I almost hesitate to work on this week's service in more detail. It seems that each time I look at a specific Beatitude that I always need to practice what I preach at some point during the week.

This past week I have reflected on those people whom I have hurt-- with my words and with my actions. Whether intentional or not doesn't seem to matter as much as attempting to right the wrong. I spent time journaling about those folks whom I perceived have wronged me. In looking back sometimes the words and actions were intentional, while at other times, I over-reacted. I am quickly reminded how I am not God. I remember grievances. I still have scar tissue from hurts. And for me, forgiveness is not a one step process. I must be a slow learner.

I know in my heart when I release my unresolved anger it is always good and life-giving. Why I hesitate is beyond me.

On the journey,
Alecia

Anger Management

2012-01-10T14:23:00.002-06:00

Sunday's scripture text on Matthew 5:21-26 certainly elicited a number of comments. One of the most wonderful gifts God has bestowed on human beings is emotions. Emotions are neither good nor bad. People place value judgments on emotions; however when one carefully examines them, there is a great deal to be learned and revealed. How we deal or fail to deal with our emotions is where we run into trouble. Good follow up questions might be:

1. How have you experienced broken relationships because of anger or angry outbursts?
2. How do you protect yourselves from angry outbursts?
3. Is there anyone that you need to make amends with because of anger?

Jesus said to Love God with all your heart, mind, soul and strength but did He really mean people too? The Sermon on the Mount certainly suggests that Jesus did call for us to care for one another.

The Sermon on the Mount is found in Matthew, chapters 5-7. There is a shorter version found in Luke as well. I like what Megan McKenna had to say,

This "kindgom" consists not in power and authority but in relationships among the children of God, this new family of Jesus.

Matthew often uses the term the kingdom of heavenwhich invokes the Spirit's truth as God sees it. When you read the Sermon on the Mount, we see how Jesus teaches the disciples, us, to live, as well as to develop specific types of relationships we choose to associate with on an everyday basis. If you read the first part of Matthew 5, you will notice that our brothers and sisters in Christ include the poor, the oppressed, the hurting, the powerless. How does this play out in your life?

I am grateful to journey with you as we walk through aspects of the Sermon on the Mount.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Perfect Christmas

2011-12-07T14:11:00.002-06:00

The gift of the Advent Calendar has proven to be very life-giving. Every day I open a new door and I receive a small gift. I have been absolutely delighted with awaiting each new day. I can't help but wonder if in some small way we are to approach the Advent season with a sense of awe and excitement. Even my husband asks, "What's behind door number 7?" Something so simple yet powerful by how it directs my thoughts to God. While the truffle behind door number 4 was scrumptious, it was the shift in my starting my day with an expectancy that comes with the opening of a new door. What new doors will I encounter in my journey to Jesus?

I have reflected on the questions Mike Slaughter poses in his book, Christmas is Not Your Birthday. I hope they stir up within you the longing for this Christmas to reflect Christ:

1. What is your vision of a perfect Christmas? What imperfect circumstances will you face this year that will challenge your ability to celebrate Christmas fully?

2. How do you think Mary felt in the months and days leading up to Jesus' birth? How does her experience of the first Christmas influence the way you approach the holiday season?

3. How can you celebrate Jesus in the midst of your struggles? How can God use your struggles to help others in Christmas?

I love question number 2. We are far, far away from her experiences of joy, fear, goodness, ridicule and wonder. It's a good question to re-ground us in this most holy season.

Jacqueline Nelson passed on a wonderful website for those of you looking to give a gift with on-going meaning. Look at this website: www.kiva.org. I'm excited to give my children a gift from this website.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Church And Sandusky

2011-11-30T15:53:00.002-06:00

I read an article online today that I found thought-provoking. The article is about Jerry Sandusky and the local church he attends, St. Paul's United Methodist in College Town, Pennsylvania. You might recall that Sandusky is the former Penn State assistant coach, who is accused of molesting eight boys. Sandusky and his wife have faithfully attended the United Methodist Church for 30 years.

http://www.hlntv.com/article/2011/11/23/penn-state-scandal-jerry-sandusky-church?tr=y&auid=9926075

I invite you to read the article and respond if you like.

On the journey,
Alecia

Jesus Santa Theology

2011-11-28T11:28:00.004-06:00

The whole morphing of Jesus and Santa has and continues to be a dilema for me. I know the right words. I know what I believe in my heart, yet I still struggle. I am a product of my generation-- caught in a consumeristic holiday faith. I want the whole ball of wax from the decorated house, the Christmas cookies baking, the gatherings, everything. Trying to balance it doesn't always work. I don't think Jesus is anti enjoying the season, but I do think I get out of balance quickly.

If you were or even if you weren't, here are questions to reflect on this week. They are out of the book, Christmas is Not Your Birthday by Mike Slaughter.

1. How do you picture God? Does this image have more in common with Santa Claus or with Jesus?
2. Think about your family's Christmas traditions. How many of them focus on your own comfort and pleasure? What new traditions can you plan that focus more on presence than presents?
3. What ideas do you have that could be seeds for a mission miracle? What group are you connected to or who are some other people that could help to make it happen.

Over Thanksgiving we deliberately spent a lot more time in the presence of one another rather than the buying of presents. That felt good. I miss the days of reading nightly to the kids. We had Christmas classics that we read at bedtime year after year. What about you?

I put my Advent Wreath together last night. It's not the prettiest one I have had but it will serve the purpose to daily re-center me for the next four weeks. Doug and I plan to light it when we gather around the table at night. I want to invite you to add one in your house. Deliberate small choices make a huge difference-- at least for me.

Journey with me because I struggle with this dilema.

On the journey,
Alecia

New Eyes to See

2011-11-21T15:53:00.002-06:00

There is a new Welcome Teaming forming. It's a great group of folks taking on the challenge to help new people make the leap from first time attender to connections within the church. I liked the Mike Slaughter's thoughts on this topic:

If someone from the neighborhood walked in the back of the church, would this attract him or her to Jesus? Traditions make us feel warm about our history, but do nothing for the person who did not grow up within the tradition. Every action and tradition should be questioned, tested, and abandoned if it does not bring the unfamiliar person from the community to Christ--old songs, worship forms, communication styles, vocabulary, dress, activites--everything!

What we do and say matters when people walk through the doors for the first time. Try an experiment the next time you walk through our doors on a Sunday morning. See if you can view the experience with new eyes. Sit in a new place. Are you greeted by multiple people? Do you extend out a hand to a new person struggling to understand our worship order? What instructions are clear or which ones are left unspoken?

Why does this matter? People have an innate need to have a relationship with the Holy One. Considering that the Kingdom of God suggests that we are part of making the invisible grace of God visible, it matters a great deal. Just something to ponder.

On the journey,
Alecia

Gratitude

2011-11-14T12:01:00.003-06:00

After spending a week in Estes Park, Colorado, I couldn't help but feel grateful for all that God is doing in the world around us. Estes Park without the overwhelming crush of tourists is a place filled with herds of animals, brilliant colors, trails and solitude. It was amazing.

We went on a night hike, without flashlights, with one of the park interpreters during the full moon. After 45 minutes, our eyes had adjusted to the dark. There was a depth to the grey scale in the meadow in Moraine Basin I had not imagined. I saw things-- creatures, stars, paths and trails -- not always visible during the day. I encountered ice and deep badger holes. It had its moments to be sure -- hiking at night. The wind was wild.

I wonder what I miss out on because I don't always allow my eyes to fully adjust to God's presence in the world. Who or what don't I see when I stay in my comfort zone on the safe trails during the daylight in summer. There is a wildness about God that I am not always comfortable confronting. When I do, I stand amazed.

On the journey,
Alecia

3 Hours To Make a Difference

2011-10-17T11:39:00.002-05:00

How cool to belong to a church that makes Three Hours to Make a Difference a priority. Over 90 participants from three churches. It was wonderful to see the churches working together, with teams comprised of members from First United Methodist, Grace Community and St. Thomas More. Jesus calls us to be the body of Christ. It seems to me I saw Jesus working throughout the city this week-end!

On the journey,
Alecia

Toxic Relationships

2011-10-11T09:50:00.002-05:00

It appears that Sunday's sermon is stirring up conversations about toxic relationships. For those of you not in worship, we are continuing in our sermon series in Matthew 10, where Jesus calls his disciples into a relationship and then sends them out on mission. The primary passages were: Matthew 10:11-15, and 10:40-42. When a person is made right before God through Jesus Christ, he/she is called a righteous person. In the text Jesus talks about righteous people and worthy people. Like righteous folks, worthy people are hospitable, open, respectful and view the world as larger than themselves. Worthy people simply do not have the relationship with God. Jesus calls us to be in partnership with and in mission to worthy individuals. Check out verses 40-42 to see how God responds to the worthy person. Jesus does give the warning about staying away from toxic people.

Toxic individuals hinder our relationship with God. If we are around negative friends, then we tend to become negative. If we grew up in a house filled with shame and secrets, we keep parts of our lives hidden from God's healing. If we never heard how much God loves us, then our identity is found in whatever idol presents itself-- work, kids, house, relationships, promotion.

Accordingly this passage seeks to pull from within us those areas which are toxic. When do I laugh at someone elses expense? When do I judge someone else, only to discover on closer examination that very characteristic within me? How often do I blame others because I simply can't cope with another failure?

Matthew's gospel is not for the faint of heart. Remember... this is the Gospel of Jesus. There is good news. I believe John the Baptist said it best: Repent for the Kingdom of Heaven is near. Repent. Confess the areas where toxicity resides in you. Let God's forgiveness and grace heal the broken heart.

On a side note. I got into a conversation about how this works in terms of political humor. The question was, "At what point do I become toxic in my humor?" A timely question. In the last election I felt very convicted in this area. I love a good political cartoon. They are concise and speak volumes through art. As I lifted the question to God I heard the following: Stay away from personal attacks against an individual. All people are my (God's) creation. Imagine if you were in that person's shoes. How would you feel if the personal attack was against you and your children heard it? Let that be your guide.

For me that has served as a guide in two ways. First a commitment to not participate or pass on personal attacks--funny or otherwise. Also I heard a call to speak up when someone is targeting a politician in such ways. I have to admit this has not always been very easy for me. I have had to work harder at understanding the issues rather than the soundbites.

On the journey,
Alecia

Which One First?

2011-10-03T11:26:00.002-05:00

If our mission is found first in our relationship with Jesus, then how do we respond to the pervasive consumer culture? This culture of consumptions undermines our mission to live in such a way that the Kingdom of God is near. Our need for more-- more stuff, more money, more whatever-- eclipses that central relationship. How much personal time is spent in order to keep the present standard of living? We can't live spiritually and emotionally the way we would desire because of our need to work to make the payments.

In the sermon on Sunday, we talked about three action steps which help counter the consumeristic mindset we have adopted. Which action step is important for you to work with first:
* Cultivate a relationship with God. This would involve an actual relationship not simply knowledge of God.
* Spend time with people you love. This includes our families most certainly. It also includes developing a close-knit group of people that you are in a spiritual small group with regularly.
* Do things God calls you to do. Don't wait for Ministry Council to bless it. Pay attention to the people and situations that need your assistance. Take a spiritual gifts class to help better identify your passions.

I hope you spend time with one of the action steps this coming week. These three steps help us to live more fully as we engage life spiritually. If you are serious in moving deeper with God, this is a good way to start.

On the journey,
Alecia

Being Sent

2011-09-26T18:35:00.003-05:00

Like last week, I seem to have too much sermon for the time. I came more prepared this past Sunday! I thought ahead as to what I would need to cut out, rather than simply letting the 8:00 AM service serve as a practice run. If you would like to go deeper, then continue reading.

It is easy to relegate the Old Testament to a secondary status. We like the action of the Gospels, the power of Jesus and the immediacy. Matthew 10 will not allow for such a simplistic view. Spend some time reading Isaiah 58. The Jewish people are enjoying a time of resurgence in worship and spiritual life. In Isaiah, the prophet questions how the relationship with others has a direct link with our intimacy with God. After reading the passage, how do your individual spiritual practices indicate your relationship with the Lord? Do you sense the Lord calling you to new practices?

Jesus as recorded in Matthew 10 calls us to a vital relationship first and foremost. Our practices and works are a by-product of that relationship.

On the Journey,
Aleciai

And Now the Rest of the Story... um, Sermon

2011-09-19T13:43:00.005-05:00

Sermons are like motion picture films in which a lot of deleted scenes end up on the cutting room floor! This previous Sunday a great deal ended up on the sanctuary floor. For those of you that enjoy digging deeper, chew on this for a few moments.

We are in the tenth chapter of Matthew which is Jesus' commissioning sermon. The section left out of the sermon dealt with God's faithfulness and apparent favor of one group. The troubling part of the text is in Matthew 10:5-6 where Jesus admonishes the apostles to go only to the "lost sheep" of Israel, not the Samaritans or the Gentiles. You might remember the troubling passage of the Syro-Phoenician women whom Jesus encounters (Mt. 15). The woman wants help for her daughter. Jesus replies he won't take food from the table and give it to the dogs. While Jesus ends up declaring this woman's faith great and heals her daughter, his mission at this point is still to the lost sheep of Israel. Jesus' mission expands in the Great Commission in Matthew 28 where he commands his disciple to go "unto the ends of the earth."

It is important to note that God keeps his commands. If we return to the OT book of Ezekiel, the 34th chapter, scripture tells us that God has once again heard the cries of the people now enslaved by the Babylonians. Not only has God heard, but is concerned. In the 11th verse God speaks to a specific time, culture and location in regards to the Good Shepherd. God provides for the people in a time of human trafficking, rape as used in warfare and genocide. Later in the passage one the Lord now describes the one shepherd as David. This is a reference to Jesus as found in the David line. God is making a promise or a covenant not just to the specific situation but to Israel that Jesus will be the one Shepherd. As you finish chapter 34 you will see the covenant with Israel that "You are my sheep, the sheep of my pasture and I am your God, says the Lord God."

God always keeps his promises. It might not be in the time frame we would expect, but the covenants will be kept. Read Romans 11:25-29. Take a few moments and reflect on Paul's words concerning Israel. Think about the specific plan God has for the Jews. Think about the provisions made for us and finally how and when God plans to keep the covenant with Israel.

Jesus had a clear mission. That clarity allowed him to complete his work on earth. That mission continues now in you and in me. What is your mission?

On the journey,
Alecia

On the Journey,

Caution: Spirit At Work

2011-09-12T14:53:00.002-05:00

It seems anywhere you go on North Jones Boulevard one sees literal caution signs of people at work. At First UMC, the Spirit is at work. I was speaking with Rev. Mel Schlacter from Trinity Episcopal Church last night following the Sept. 11 service. I told him of the modern day Good Samaritan story I told in worship. As part of my reflections on September 11, I had prayed for Mychal Judge. Judge was the chaplain for the NYFD at that time. He rushed to Ground Zero and died while giving last rites. I heard multiple sermons at the time (2001) speak to the point that it sounded like God to have a priest welcoming people into heaven. On Saturday September 10th, I learned that Judge was gay. It reminded me of the story of the Good Samaritan, whereby God uses individuals in which the institutional church is still in debate.

As I passed this on to Mel. He said it correlated with the lectionary. After joking about my lack of use of the lectionary, he pointed out the passage yesterday was on forgiveness. Peter was asking Jesus how many times he must forgive an enemy. Jesus replied, "Seventy times seven." We are called to forgive.

The passage was part of the larger lectionary, which is a three year walk through the themes and primary passages of Scripture. Out of all the passages, this is the one that was for September 11. Not a coincidence -- simply the Spirit moving.

Peace,
Alecia

Odyssey

2011-09-07T15:34:00.001-05:00

The spiritual life is first of all a life. It is not merely something to be known and studied. It is to be lived. Thomas Merton

"Alecia, how is it that my faith life feels non-existent? I don't experience or feel God in the ways you describe. What's wrong with me?" This question is posed to me on a regular basis. My answer is fairly consistent. As a church -- local and the larger one-- we have done a good job inviting people. We want our friends and family to be connected to God and to the church community that we love. We diligently get "them" and ourselves to church, but then what? We need to become disciples. I don't know abou you, but I want to live -- really live out my calling. Call me crazy, but that seems like a journey of a lifetime.
There is a glaring need within churches to grapple with Jesus' words to "make disciples." We walk through the threshhold and never move into the deeper relationship with the Beloved, the Holy One. Just how we make that move has perplexed a lot of folks that love God, but experience little beyond it in their daily lives.
In the next two months, I want to look at practical Christianity that deepens us inwardly, while calling us to mission. It is a journey we will take together in worship. If you join the small group, "Change the World" we will see similar themes as we seek to be more like Jesus.
See you Sunday

On the journey,
Alecia

Insightful Questions

2011-07-05T15:03:00.002-05:00

On Sunday, July 3, we took a break from the current sermon series and had a question and answer time in lieu of the message. We did not get to all of the questions posed. Today I want to look at the following question:

How do we stay positive about Jesus when we see all that goes against his teachings going on around us?

What a great question. Undoubtedly we have to take our cue from Jesus. He entered the world in a time of war and famine. Slavery, prostitution, classism, sexism and racial cleansing were issues in his time. I see Jesus as portrayed in the Gospels as doing several key things:

* Time to pray -- Prayer was as essential for Jesus as breathing. It kept him focused and centered on living out the Kingdom of God on earth.
*Time in worship-- Throughout the Gospels, we see worship is key for Jesus to live out his personal mission.
*Time in a small group--Jesus chose 12 and ultimately 3 to share key moments. He had a small group. We see the three present during the particularly challenging times.
*Proactive Response -- Jesus decided to live out his mission regardless of a world that seemed out of control.

We know Jesus agonized and prayed for those who followed him. Read John 17 to get a good understanding of how Jesus felt. We know he wept at the death of his friend and over the city of Jerusalem as well.

In a world filled with harshness and violence, we would do well to utilize these same principles. When I get discouraged, I read the stories of Jesus in the Gospels and the Acts of the Apostles. I have to remind myself that I am invovled in a greater story than simply my own.

On the journey,

Alecia

Are We Clear?

2011-06-20T11:36:00.003-05:00

I was reading Selections from Change the World by Mike Slaughter this morning. He speaks to the fact that the mandate for Jesus' followers is clear. He points to the Luke 4: 18-19 passage:

The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim
good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the
prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free,
to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.

Slaughter writes, "The gospel is good news for the poor. If it is not working to benefit the poor and oppressed, then it is not the gospel." As I pondered this during a time of meditation, I reflected on how much more I need to shift my world view in order to encompass the whole of the scripture. Wherever you are this week, I hope you take time to stop and reflect on scripture. God still speaks powerfully through the written Word by the Spirit's leading.

On the journey,
Alecia

Six Traits of a Healthy Family

2011-06-14T13:22:00.002-05:00

We are beginning a new series: Family Re: Union. On Sunday we talked about the six traits of a healthy family. After reading through the list, spend time discussing with your family -- be it your spouse, children, parents, aunts, etc-- as to how well you live out these biblical traits. It was eye opening for our family.

1. Healthy families practice faith at home.

2. Healthy families demonstrate massive amounts of love.

3. Healthy families are intentional in creating family memories.

4. Healthy families celebrate the uniqueness of each individual.

5. Healthy families set boundaries for each other.

6. Healthy families have YOU.

Rate your responses as to how you are doing in each of the areas. The really cool thing is that you can get great results from simply doing any one of the areas!

Blessings.

On the journey,
Alecia

Time Well Spent

2011-05-31T14:58:00.002-05:00

This coming weekend is Annual Conference for United Methodists across the state of Iowa. I hope you take time this week to pray for our time together, specifically:

* That as a conference we seek out God's Holy Spirit for discernment on issues,
* That we pray for the leadership of the conference, including Bishop Trimble,
* and, That we maintain Christian integrity when in disagreement.

Annual Conference is an important time for United Methodists to gather, to discern, to worship and pray together. I will be gone from June 4-June 7.

On the journey,
Alecia

Twisters

2011-05-23T15:05:00.002-05:00

The photos of a devastated Joplin, Missouri are difficult to view. Please pray for for those impacted by the storms. It is hard to imagine how the emergency response teams are able to respond -- with the lack of power, cell coverage and lack of dedicated roads and streets.

There is a new team forming at church -- Disaster Preparedness. Like all of the UM churches in Iowa, we are working on a plan. Initially it will involve the church proper. After it is in place, then we will work with the city so we can serve as an asset if the unthinkable happens.

As news reports spread of a tornado approaching Oxford and another Kent Park, it helped to speed up my desire to get those plans in place. Each of the major teams will answer questions for a worst case scenario, such as:
1. Where will this ministry meet? Think worship, Creation Kids, Food and Clothing pantry, church office. You get the idea.
2. How will you communicate to your clientele -- congegation, clients, children?
3. Where do you keep your records and inventory list, including an off-site location?

There are a lot of things to consider. Various teams,including the Trustees, have information to gather in order for us to have a comprehensive plan. If you have interest in joining this team, please contact me. Four of us make up the core group at this time: Christine Langridge (nurse), Elaine Hernandez (nurse), Peggy Tillman (worked on a Disaster Preparedness plan at a previous employment) and me.

Pray for those whose lives have been altered. Pray for churches as they minister to areas in need.

On the journey,

Alecia

A Christian Response

2011-05-03T10:13:00.002-05:00

As most Americans, I breathed in relief after the mission and subsequent death of Bin Laden. I found this to be a helpful article as I pondered the events of this week. Jill Sanders had the article on her Facebook page.

http://blog.sojo.net/2011/05/02/how-should-we-respond-to-the-death-of-osama-bin-laden/

Peace to you this week,
Alecia

The Road Home

2011-04-18T11:35:00.003-05:00

I was struck by a line in the cantata yesterday. The line came out of Peter's monologue. Peter's (Andrew McKnight) line was in response to "Who do you say that I am?" After naming him "the Christ, the Son of the Living God," he continued with the "Aha" line for me. He said, "This wasn't something I needed time to think about. I had a front row seat to this Man's life and ministry. I knew His Heart."

I have followed Jesus for as long as I can remember. I have had "a front row seat" to Jesus' ministry in many different settings. When I see the various ministry teams in action at the church, I see Jesus. When I watch a family getting food at the pantry, I see Jesus. When another prayer shawl goes out the door, there goes Jesus. I know who He is. I have experienced Jesus within my life and subsequent experiences. I also know who Jesus is because of seeing Him in You. I have had a front row seat for ten years.

On the journey,
Alecia

Rites of Spring

2011-04-12T15:31:00.001-05:00

It was an amazing Sunday witnessing 12 confirmands making vows to confirm their faith. Having spent several months with this group, I knew how much went into their thought process. Each young person wrote a Statement of Faith which explained his/her beliefs. They wrote on topics, such as redemption, grace, the God-head. Nothing like trying to wrestle with the differences between prevenient, justifying and sanctifying grace when you are 12-14 years old.

The students turn in a rough draft of their Statement of Faith. Invariably, my last comment on the paper is always, "And why does any of this matter to you? Why do you want to follow Jesus?"

Perhaps each of us should undertake writing what we believe during this Lenten journey. And oh yes... why does any of it matter to you?

On the journey,
Alecia
BTW -- If you would like to read this class' Statements of Faith, one is available in the library and at the Information Booth.

Vacation

2011-03-21T13:52:00.002-05:00

My week-long southern tour visiting family drew to a close last night. It was relaxing, fun and restful. I can't remember the last time I was able to sleep in after 8 AM so many days. Doug and I spent time in the homes of my adult nieces and nephews. I want to be the type of aunt who continues to track with them throughout their growing up years. Doug worked on home repair projects with spouses, while I connected in deeper conversations than are possible at Christmas. It felt good to be with family.

I realize that God give's us our church family in much the same way. I have the privilege of being in intimate conversations where tears and laughter are common. I forget what a privilege it is to be in community, one with another. It is powerful. While it was great to take a step back and refresh my soul this past week, it felt good to come home.

I hope you find time in this day to stop, breathe deeply and take in the moment.

On the journey,
Alecia

Ash Wednesday or Thereabouts

2011-03-08T22:43:00.002-06:00

It is hard to believe we have already travelled from Christmas to the beginning of Lent. A season of reflection in the midst of our lives is an important annual journey. If you want to read a great, simple reflection on Lent, return to the homepage and scrolldown to the lower right hand corner and click on "Want to know more about Lent?". It's a fast read but offers good insight.

The smudge of the cross mingled with the woody scent of the burnt palm leaves brings home how quickly journeys move from "Gloria in excelsis Deo" to "Hosanna" to "Crucify." I feel exposed with the dark stain of the cross marking me on my forehead. I have given voice to all three expressions at various points along the way. The Lenten pathway helps guide me home, back to the dust of the earth and the breathe of the Spirit.

I hope you find a place of quiet regularly during this next six weeks. It is not as much about doing, but rather in being with the One. Quiet, still, thoughtful.

On the journey,

Alecia

Sailboats on a River

2011-02-28T11:17:00.003-06:00

I am always amazed at the depth of the questions coming from our confirmands. After a discussion about the Holy Spirit, Becca H. wrote the following questions:
*Is the Holy Spirit love or when we feel love is it from the Holy Spirit?
*Does everything happen for for a reason?
*Can sailboats on a river represent our path in life?
These are good, serious, thoughtful questions. Connecting God's Spirit to love-- pure love is an insightful observation. I believe that while we experience God's love, the Spirit opens us up even more to when love is expressed.

A sailboat offers a good metaphor of the Spirit. If we look at our life as a sailboat, then we have to decide whether we are sailing or simply watching other sailboats from shore. I believe God placed within each of us that desire to sail-- to respond to the Lord. As we created our own versions of origami sailboats in confirmation, it was quickly apparent the boats with more sail available caught the most wind. Nicholas M.'s boat shot across the water because of the clever design to capture the wind. When we open up our hearts, souls and minds to the Spirit, we can go places we never dreamed of with our lives.

On the journey,
Alecia

An Invitation

2011-02-21T16:24:00.003-06:00

I was asked to participate in a new group called Healthy Church Initiative (HCI). Over the next year I will be reading a series a books and participate in a discussion group. At each meeting I will be asked to offer an action plan on one key learning I discovered in the reading. My initial response was to not take part simply because of time. However, I changed my mind when I discovered that the books I will be reading will aid us in becoming the missional church God has called us to be.

The book I will be reading is, "Recreating the Church" by Richard Hamm. I would love to have others read it as well and share what they learned. Here is a description of the book:

"At the center of this manifesto is Hamm's concern for preserving the core values of the Mainline churches in the face of challenges from secularism and fundamentalism. The problem, as he sees it, is that the structures that developed over the years have become obsolete and they prevent the church from adapting to the cultural context in which it lives. By embracing the "missional church" idea Hamm is less interested in quick fixes, but rather calls for long term reinvention of the church so that the Mainline values can be preserved and can influence not just the religious context but the world context."

Check it out. See what you think. I'll post my thoughts after I have read the book.

On the journey,
Alecia

Confirming Your Faith

2011-02-15T10:58:00.002-06:00

One of my favorite aspects of my job is Confirmation which I work with 7th and 8th grade students. It is a fun age because they tend to not censor what comes out of their mouth as to whether or not its particularly religious. Because I have a policy to answer any question thrown at me in the class, I have fielded questions on a number of topics. Sometimes the questions are more serious in nature. Take for instance the thoughts of one of the students:

*When talking about sins, it depends what you consider a sin.

*Can a person ever be entirely forgiven for sins?

*Just because God died on the cross, does that mean our sins are forgiven?

*Why do sins matter if we are not perfect?

This student is doing a great job in thinking theologically. She might not think about in those terms, but it is precisely what she is doing. I wonder how our church would change if we all took time to think theologically now and again.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Gift of Water

2010-12-12T18:37:00.002-06:00

If you would like to add the gift of water to your presents, then simply go to the website: http://www.water.cc/. If you click on "giftcards", you will be set. The organization is the Living Water International. You will be able to read more about the water crisis, Advent Conspiracy and more.

The four tenets of the Advent Conspiracy have inspired me throughout this season:
*Worship fully
*Spend less
*Give more
*Love all

I hope they resonate with you as well.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Cost of Being Me

2010-11-22T15:18:00.002-06:00

Yesterday in service I had people add up the dollar amount of what they were wearing and of items they were carrying. The list consisted of:

Clothing
Shoes
Undergarments
Jewelry
Purse/wallet
Electronic devices-- phones, ipods, etc.
Glasses/contacts
Money

My clothing and items totaled $247 without the jewelry or $1047 with it. In Kenya the average household income is $245. It stopped me in my tracks to realize just how much it cost to be me. Apparently alot of you had similar feelings. You tried explaining how if I just hadn't included the one category your number would have been in a more "acceptable" range. I believe I am socially aware and try to make wise choices. I simply had not thought about the sheer amount of money that I have on me at any given time.

It jarred me. I'm grateful to have glimpses of clarity into my life, even when I am not sure that I always want to hear it. Thank you God for teaching me in a variety of ways.

On the journey,
Alecia

Privileges

2010-11-01T15:21:00.002-05:00

As much as I loathed all of the political junk mail of the last two months, I always love the process of voting. I look forward to going to the polls whether it is an off-year election or not, which begs the question as to whether any year is truly an "off" year. Yes, I know it means it is not a presidential year; however as I have looked at the ballot, there are important issues to be decided.

For all of the complaining about local, state and national elections, a surprisingly small amount of people actually turn out to vote. Wouldn't it be a sad commentary on life if more people vote on "Dancing With the Stars" than on our off-year election. It's easy to get fed-up with all of the negative commercials and print ads. It's much more satisfying though to walk into the voting booth and cast your vote.

On the journey,
Alecia

Unsolicited

2010-10-29T09:10:00.003-05:00

It feels like everytime I answer the phone at home that another pre-recorded message plays in my ear. My mailbox is under-seige with voter recommendation guides. This does not bode well for the 2012 election. Yet I am still grateful to be part of the election process.

What I don't appreciate, to put it mildly, is unsolicited, unsigned and partisan materials showing up at the church. Anonymous and sometimes graphic materials (abortion) being placed on the wooden table for all to pick up as they enter. This year seems like we are encountering more and more at the church. I don't understand the anonymity to it all. Obviously the views are strongly felt, yet they won't sign their name to it.

A new sign is up on the doors through election day.
Notice:
Unsolicited voting and religious materials will be removed and thrown away.

To the anonymous purveyors of matierials: Stop. Materials without local identification on them do not merit the time of day. Last I checked there is a separation of church and state. My home is one thing, but the church is another.

Well-informed voting is critical and vital. If you haven't already sent in your absentee ballot, then make sure you schedule in time to vote. See you at the polls.

On the journey.
Alecia

Digging Deeper

2010-10-19T12:21:00.002-05:00

For someone who is so verbal in her communication, I always find it puzzling that I struggle with getting my thoughts down on a blog. I will endeavor to keep a weekly commitment with writing.

Two things cross my mind today. First, just a reminder that for those of you that found the Enneagram to be helpful, there is a retreat at my house the first Saturday of November from 9-3:30. You may sign up on the info-stub or by emailing me at pastor@southslope.net.

Perhaps what has caused me to pause and think more critically is the question which came out of the Sunday night small group discussing theological issues from the "Living the Questions Series". Whether or not we agree with the theologians on the screen is secondary to spending good energy on what we as individuals believe, given our background, life experience and Biblical views. This week the question centered on "Who is Jesus?" It seems like a simple enough question, yet conveying our thoughts in a few sentences was harder than it at first looks. I appreciated hearing from one of the group members via email this morning. He wrote poignantly, answering the question. I hope my response is as thoughtful and discerning.

Today on your journey, ponder the question, "Who is Jesus?"

Peace,
Alecia

A Response for Terry

2010-09-09T13:00:00.000-05:00

I find myself outraged at the possibility of a Florida church choosing to burn the Quran on Saturday. Certainly I not alone in my anger. I found myself reacting to the situation. It was at this point I heard the Lord directing me to 2 Chronicles 7:14:

Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.

Our call is not to react with a response, but to be proactive with the action of prayer. There is great power in prayer; particularly when groups of people seek God. Allowing my anger to be re-directed by the Lord allows for the most powerful of responses. Must the people of God respond -- absolutely. Seek God first.

Join me in prayer -- in your home, as a family, at the church. I will be at the church from 8:30-9:30 am on Saturday the 11th if you would care to join me. What else could be more important than prayer. Find a time to live out your life in God in prayer.

On the journey,
Alecia

Saying Goodbye to Polly

2010-08-30T15:44:00.003-05:00

Polly died on Sunday, August 29 surrounded by her family. I was taken back by the simple innocence of her faith in God. Polly barely had a week to digest her fate, yet she did it with an openness to God that I have rarely seen.

Native Americans believe that people with special needs are especially close to God. After listening to her testimony of faith, I believe this as well. Polly became a teacher of life and faith to anyone who was open to her words.

I am grateful to have crossed paths with her. Polly reminded me to love God with all of my mind, my heart and my soul. I hope she is enjoying her palace in the sky with the little garden filled with yellow flowers.

When I lift up an A & W root beer later, I will join many others as we speak out, "To Polly".

On the journey,
Alecia

Hurried Lives

2010-08-16T09:15:00.002-05:00

A hurried life implies that a Christian has lost the balance between abiding in God's grace and abounding in God's work. As promised here are the observations John Ortberg concerning the matter from his book, The Me I Want to Be.

1. When can I expect the tension between abiding and abounding to go away? The short answer is when you die! Jesus faced the same issues. Read Mark 1.

2. Who is responsible for getting the tension right?
While the church can be helpful in pointing folks the right direction, the answer is that each individual must continue to seek the balancing point. Often times balance is a moving target, depending on life stage and and obligations.

3. Each person needs certain practices and systems in place.
For me it is not the traditional quiet time, rather it is meditating on a passage while walking. There are a myriad of ways to abide in God's presence. The key is determining which is life-giving and brings you to the presence of God.

4. It is critical to abandon the hope of pleasing everyone.
Because of time restraints, we did not speak about this one in service; however, people pleasing or living up to another's observations sabotages many spiritual lives.

5. Recognize destructive patterns in life, such as:
* Chronic sense of never enough time
* Physica tension in the body
* Inappropriate escapist behavior
* Pre-occupied or inability to be fully present.

I would be interested in hearing what practices work for you.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Me I Want to Be -- Confession

2010-08-09T15:07:00.002-05:00

Perhaps the most significant aha moment in John Ortberg's book, The Me I Want to Be, was the discussion on confession. In a world that celebrates Christianity Lite where the spiritual walk is based on the desires of the consumer (me), it was an important reminder of the place of confession in a healthy life. It was good to re-read 1 John and the call to living in the light.

The act of confession will make its way more prominently in worship this fall. In worship it will look like a more intention addition to our time of prayer or communion. In a small group, the aspect of accountability is a more natural progression of our spiritual journey. It is not added in corporately per se, but much more relationally.

Reading the book reminds me to thank my covenant group sisters for walking alongside me in life.

Along the journey.

Alecia

The Me I Want To Be

2010-08-02T12:51:00.002-05:00

John Ortberg's book, The Me I Want to Be, has been a great summer read for me. Ortberg writes:

I'm a grown man, I thought. I do not know how many years of life are before me. I cannot wait anymore. When I was going to school, I was preoccupied with good grades or getting cute girls to like me. As the years went by, I became preoccupied with work and my circumstances because I thought they would make me feel alive. I can't wait anymore to be that man, I thought.
I realized this then, and I know it now: I want that life more than I want anything else. Not because I think I'm supposed to, not because it says somewhere that you should. I want it. There is a me I want to be.

As I am being reminded periodically by faithful servants in the church, I am nearly 50! I think the questions Ortberg poses are good food for fodder throughout our lives. Am I the me I want to be -- at this point in my journey. Having two weeks of vacation helped immensely in helping to shake out the cobwebs and chew on these questions. I look forward hearing from you as you look at your journey. Are you on stuck or are you continuing to emerge into the person God has called you to be?

On the journey,
Alecia

Renewal

2010-06-28T12:44:00.001-05:00

My family and I are off to see Samantha in Japan. I won't be blogging for a couple of weeks.

Grace and Peace,
Alecia

Saying Goodbye

2010-06-22T15:11:00.002-05:00

In the past couple of weeks we have said goodbye to two amazing individuals: Andy Plank and LaVerne Pennington. Both men lived lives filled with integrity, passion and love. Their love for family was exemplary. Through the laughter and tears of story telling with family and friends, it was obvious the feeling was mutual. Each left a legacy of choosing life in the face of adversities and setbacks. I felt privileged to know both of them.

I am reminded to re-look at my own mission statement. Am I living the way I said I wanted to live? Am I serving God with all my heart, mind, soul and strength? Where am I settling? Where do I allow fear to rule over trusting God? Thoughts to ponder.

On the journey,
Alecia

Retreating

2010-06-14T14:58:00.002-05:00

This morning it was delightful to have the Bucket List Monday morning coffee group come to the house for lunch. Bob Dunn did a great job grilling steaks! It is always wonderful to enjoy the fellowship of this group.

I find it sad that 25% of Americans are counting on the lottery to take care of them in retirement. Rather than discovering God's purpose for us in our workplaces, for some it is easier to contemplate a life of ease without work. Each of us has a purpose given to us by God. We have the opportunity to have a higher calling of a vocation, rather than simply putting in hours at our workplace. Whether we work at a Casey's or serve as a CEO, we have a purpose to fulfill. When we don't embrace our ministry at the workplace, we miss being God's hands and feet.

I love to hear the stories from people within the church talking about their ministries outside the church walls. The stories are filled with redemption, mercy and grace. Relying on the lotto is crazy, but living out God's purpose is life-altering. Let me know if you have a story to share.

On the journey,
Alecia

Lacking A Bit

2010-06-09T13:36:00.002-05:00

I am lacking a bit when it comes to the consistency of my blogging. I will endeavor to do better.

Annual Conference concluded yesterday in a new location, Des Moines. I am grateful to all of the people that work on the legislation so it is ready to discuss in Conference. While I think it is important to think theologically upon these matters and in the larger setting, I am truly thankful for the brothers and sisters in Christ that set fingers to keyboard.

A possible change that perhaps was not evident on the surface deals with the Wesley Foundations on four campuses: U of I, ISU, UNI and Drake. With a $900,000 budget at stake for the campus ministries, the door was opened for the Wesley Foundations to not be fully funded. Like area churches, the AC must work to balance its budget too. Hard decisions. This will be something to follow for those with college students.

With limited debate, immigration reform was discussed. As a people who proclaim radical hospitality from the Old Testament forward, we struggled to hear one another at times.

Coming soon -- a photo organizational chart.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Dalai Lama

2010-05-25T12:31:00.002-05:00

Last week had the wonderful opportunity to hear the Dalai Lama speak at the University of Northern Iowa. I am not sure what I was expecting, but I received more than I hoped for during the time. As I listened to him speak about education and peace, I was drawn to his humble nature. It was clear the Dalai Lama understood he was on a spiritual pathway. Particularly when he was part of a larger panel discussion, the Dalai Lama chose to end his thoughts with the phrase, "And these are just my views." He was self-deprecating in his humor. I laughed, I cried, I was humbled and I was inspired.

I have had several folks ask me about my thoughts on a previous sermon in the series we are currently in at the moment. In the sermon on intimacy, we looked at those patterns we have that destroy it, including escalation. The questions asked for my thoughts on fighting patterns that include inappropriate language. Anytime one party or the other in a relationship moves to using volitale language or swear words, the opportunity to hear God in the midst diminishes. Swearing is the lazy person's attempt to state what is happening within themselves. Rather than taking the time to use appropriate language to describe thoughts, feelings and actions, swearing is the shortcut. It never leads to good discussion. Inappropriate language is disrespectful to both parties.

Thank you to those of you that reminded me you missed my blog yesterday! I will endeavor to keep my Monday commitment.

On the journey,
Alecia

Education and Peace

2010-05-17T12:29:00.003-05:00

On May 18th I have the opportunity to hear the Dalai Lama along with my family. I am looking forward to hearing one of his talks on education and peace. I'll share what I have learned with the church body next week.

It's easy to talk about peace, but I've found it much more difficult to live it out on an everyday basis. My interactions with people have the opportunity to bless them or to curse them. When I am centered I can serve as a conduit for God's Spirit to work through me. Reading about peace and living it are two different things.

Happily Ever After

2010-05-03T20:36:00.003-05:00

On Sunday morning, we talked about the four stages of deterioration in relationships-- primarily in marriage. Several of you asked for the list again. They are:

1. Romance -- Happily Ever After is your mantra.
2. Reality Check-- The phase whereby the cracks in the relationship begin to emerge.
3. Reaction-- Passive aggressive actions begin to enter the relationship.
4. Rebellion-- Actions lead to breakdown, whereby the relationship ends.

Breakthrough is the alternative. Re-read the Genesis 2 account in order to have a greater understanding of how God views marriage. God desires that couples have a spiritual relationship and companionship. We are far from the ideal, yet God has given us tools. For relationships to thrive, there are three critical aspects:

An exclusive commitment to one another,
Deep and vulnerable sharing, and
Spiritual connection with God.

Not all marriages make it, yet God calls us to the ideal when possible. Some marriages cannot make it, because of abuse, adultery, unaddressed addictions, and the list goes on. Perhaps a fourth critical aspect should be added: a supportive Christian community. I know for Doug and I Christian community is key for us as well.

Food for thought.

See you on the journey,

Alecia

New Creation

2010-04-26T16:09:00.002-05:00

Today became a celebration of creation. A long anticipated kid was born -- the four legged kind. While we have two other nannies ready to deliver in the next week or so, this pregnancy turned out to be a difficult one for the mother. In the latter stages of the pregnancy, the nanny goat could not utilize one of her hind legs. The last couple of weeks were heart wrenching watching her slowly make her way around the pasture. This morning a little female goat was born. The baby is doing well. Mom is still moving slowly. I will attempt to become more adept at the blog and actually add a photo of her next week.

The celebration continued with the Bucket List Coffee group heading to Kalona for a day of cinnamon rolls, a plethora of plants and lunch at the local restaurant. It was a marvelous day to be out searching for flowers, shrubs and hanging baskets.

I have received a number of verbal responses concerning last week's sermon. Most came from couples practicing caressing touch: hand holding, hugging, a squeeze of the arm. It is amazing how paying attention to this aspect of our lives pays such big dividends in our relationships.

Continuing on the journey,

Alecia

What Did You Say?

2010-04-19T18:53:00.002-05:00

This morning I was walking through the entryway in our church. I said, "Hi," to a child putting away her book bag in the appropriate bin. I started a conversation.... she wanted to continue it. Actually I wasn't starting a conversation in my mind. I was simply saying hello to another person. It is like when we ask loved ones and strangers the same question, "How are you?" The socially accepted response is, "Fine thank you." Periodically someone breeches the politically correct response and shares honestly and openly.

I have had a number of responses to yesterday's sermon on Highly Effective Dating Habits. Most comments centered on my illustration about how often we employ inactive listening with our spouses, children and friends. It is easy to respond at the periodic pauses of some else's soliloquy with responses of "mmm", "right", "yes".

Today I got to practice what I preached. This child engaged me in a conversatation. I stopped what I was doing and turned around and actively listened. She had a story she wanted to tell. I needed to be taught.

On the journey,
Alecia

Getting Ready

2010-04-14T16:25:00.002-05:00

Hearing the vision read responsively on Sunday filled my heart with great joy. God is sending a fresh wind of fire of the Holy Spirit at the church. It was heartening to see the ministry board in the entryway begin to fill up with expressions , of ministries lived out daily was wonderful. Having someone in the congregation be so moved by the Spirit, that she began writing a new ministry plan during service for a much unders-served part of our population. In case you are wondering, that is her story to tell! She will be up front soon with her testimony. God's moving within our church and our broader community. How exciting to be part of the congregation at this time.

On another note, I am in the process of implementing the first stages of a disaster preparedness plan within the East Central district. Clergy throughout our district are invited to attend one of six sub-district groups taking place over the next six weeks. They will hear an overview, as well as receive a packet of information... and yes, forms to be completed. On June 12th from 9-1, the District Preparedness team has asked all of our district churches to send 1-2 representatives to a UMCOR workshop titled, Connecting Neighbors. We will collect the forms to help organize a more unified response when disaster strikes. Each church has unique gifts, equipment and laity that can get mobilized quickly when we do our prep work. If you are interested in serving on this team, please contact the church office. I'm excited about what God is doing in our midst.

What a great day!

Peace,
Alecia

Resurrection Hope

2010-04-05T17:49:00.002-05:00

I love Easter at our church! From the dawn breaking over the smoky fire to the ringing of the church bell announcing, Christ is Risen. I heartily agreed with Todd Hilmer's joy that the church was humming with energy. I saw the servant hearts of members working hard to find and st up every seat available. I'm not sure I even said Happy Easter to Andrew Walker prior to askng him to help set up more seats.

The Holy Spirit moved throughout the morning. I am grateful to belong to this community of believers. God is good.

Discussing Easter

2010-03-29T16:45:00.003-05:00

I have often wondered about the discussion within the Trinity as they hatched this plan that would one day play out in Jesus on the cross. How did the discussion of costliness measure up to the realities of walking the rocky pathway to the cross with the jeering crowds? How did God watch his Son die, even with the knowledge of resurrection power? How did the Spirit hover without interfering in the chaos of the week? Is what the Trinity anticipated?

These questions haunt me each Lenten season as I cannot begin to fathom the grace of God. God's grace changes everything. Even our ability to respond to grace is God-given. I feel compelled during Holy Week to immerse myself in the Gospels in order to have a clearer understanding of the sacrifice.

Thank You, Lord, for the staggering sacrifice You made to and through the cross. This week help me to extend Your grace to those with whom I come in contact. Thank You for a grace which seeks to restore this world to all it's meant to be. Help me to listen closely to You this week in order to offer Your mercy to a hurting world, Your justice to the oppressed around and Your kindness to all I encounter. Amen.

On the journey,
Alecia

The Apron and the Towel

2010-03-22T18:15:00.003-05:00

Many of you commented yesterday after the sermon about the mental image of my mother wearing her apron with a towel tucked into the waistband. The image seemed to resonate with the understanding of our call to take up the towel in serving one another. There is something beautiful about my mother being comfortable in her skin. She was like the Biblical character Martha in the best sense of the word. The towel wasn't forced upon her. She chose to add it to her many, many colorful (and flamboyant) aprons.

Others expressed how difficult it was to feel that bearing the towel was unappreciated by those that you loved the most. There was a lot of pain expressed when the towel seemed forced rather than picked up out of love. Sometimes our ideas of servanthood are skewed because our image of God is distorted.

When I think of the cross, it is easy to see Jesus as the bridge between humankind and God-- a substitutionary sacrifice. If we are honest, we often add to the last sentence -- to appease an angry God. I think of the work of the cross as the bridge, not appeasing the angry God-- but a bridge that helps our hearts to be open the grace of God. It's our hearts that need to be changed, not God's. When Jesus picked up the towel, he did it out of love, pure unadulterated love.

On the journey,
Alecia

New Eyes

2010-03-15T08:51:00.002-05:00

My family and I were driving through western Wisconsin yesterday. As spring emerges, I am constantly amazed at the natural beauty of creation. Thank you Lord for spinning into existence this blue and green globe.

I am out of the state through Wednesday.

On the journey,
Alecia

Humbleness

2010-03-09T13:52:00.002-06:00

I was doing so well. I mean... I gave up chocolate. I have exercised regularly since Ash Wednesday. My new experiment in blogging began on Mondays during Lent. Here I was sailing through Lent when I de-constructed yesterday.

As you may have noticed, my Monday blog is posted on Tuesday. It wasn't that I forgot to blog; rather, I couldn't for the life of me remember the process needed to add a new one in the time alloted before the dash to the next thing. If I am going to confess... I might as well come clean. Last night driving home from a track meet in Waverly I steered my car into the drive through lane at McDonald's. Ready to place my order of sweet tea, I made a quick impulse buy instead of an iced mocha latte. Mocha translates to chocolate, which I didn't even think about until after half was consumed.

Study leave may have involved a great deal of theological reading on the varied Methodist doctrines, but it left little room for the quiet reflections of Lent. I waded through the big three of salvation, justification and sanctification, but neglected the Lenten practices:

Confession, whereby we release those stresses and things that keep us from God,
Reception of a "word for our lives from the Word of Life," and
Return to the world as the body of Christ.

I've enjoyed The Awkward Season by Pam Hawkins for reminded me of the important practices of Lent. I am in awe of the mystery of God's grace as I know I stand in great need.

I leave you with another prayer of Hawkins:

Sometimes, O God, my thirst for you

is pushed aside, ignored,
or simply quenched by something 0ther--
something more reasonable,
something more popular-- than you.
But you never go away,
never stop,
never leave the depths of me.
Like an underground spring,
you are fresh and free,
breaking through.
Help me prepare a place for you in the caverns of my soul.
Amen.
On the journey,Alecia

Logarithms

2010-03-01T13:58:00.001-06:00

Around the library table on Sunday night sat eight tutors ready to tackle homework questions. Social Science—check. Language arts—check. Elementary math—check. Science—check. The only subject this hearty group feared was advanced math. Surely advanced math would not be required. All that changed when a young woman came in with questions about logarithms. The first student with the first question and it was all about logarithms.

Lent is a lot like logarithms. Stay with me as there truly is a cohesive thread here. We don’t understand the great mysteries of the claims of Jesus, the work of the cross, resurrection. After Sunday’s sermon, Paul McRoberts poised another interesting take on the claims that Jesus made. In referencing the John 14:6 passage, Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. No one comes to the Father but by Me, Paul posed another take for me about these words of Jesus. He said it more eloquently, but the gist of what he said has caused me to ponder the words. Believing that Jesus made the statement in love, Paul said it would be arrogant for us to assume that we understood all of the ways that Jesus manifests Himself to people.

As he spoke the words, it reminded me of being in San Lucas, Guatemala in 2005. I remember being in the simple two room home of one of the Mayan families. On their altar the Mayan statues of their faith were intermingled with the Holy Family and a crucifix. I remember being touched how these brother and sisters in the mountains of Guatemala were blessed by God’s grace. I don’t understand all of the mysteries of Lent, but I could see a people of faith in front of my eyes.

Undaunted before the logarithms, the tutor worked hard to understand the mysteries while working alongside the student.

On the journey,
Alecia

Our Integrity for Seven Pizzas

2010-02-22T08:14:00.005-06:00

In worship yesterday, I told of a recent email I received from a stranger. He was angered by a situation he watched unfold before him at a Pizza Hut. From his vantage point in the pick-up line, he watched a young clerk deal with an United Methodist youth minister from a corridor area church. As the Pizza hut employee placed the seven Mamma Mia pies on the counter, the man watched as the youth director handed the check to the clerk. The youth director quickly picked up the pizzas and pointed to a sign that said "if we don't show you our pizza, it's free." The youth director snatched the check out of the hands and left. I called Pizza Hut to confirm the story. The story was true. The employee said, "He didn't give me a chance to show the pizzas. He (the youth minister) just picked them up off the shelf." The story made the rounds through the restaurant.

I don't tell the story to skewer the youth director from another church. Failings happen. The stranger's email was forwarded to the church. I hope he does the right thing. The reason I told the story was to remind us how our actions speak louder than any sermon ever preached. It is easy to sell our integrity, our beliefs, our Christ for seven pizza pies. When we fail to understand our critical role as ministers in whatever situation we find ourselves in today, then we have great potential to wreak havoc with our witness.

You have taken Jesus to work today, to the gym, to school. What's your integrity going for these days? It's something I am pondering.

As we are in Lent, I leave you with this prayer of confession from the book, The Awkward Season by Pamela Hawkins.

Sometimes, O God, my thirst for you

is pushed aside, ignored,

or simply quenched by something other--something more reasonable,

something more popular than you.

But you never go away,

never stop,

never leave the depths of me.

Like an underground spring,

you are fresh and free,

breaking through.

Help me prepare a place for you in the caverns of my soul.

Amen.

By the way... the bill to Pizza Hut (if it has not already been paid) will be taken care of by this church today, along with a generous tip thanks to several of you.

On the journey,

Alecia

A Chocolate for the Road

2010-02-17T14:03:00.003-06:00

I need the Lenten journey this year. I haven't needed one so desperately for quite awhile. I find myself craving the quiet, the solitude, the Holy. I must be walking too close to the edge on this spiritual road.
Pamela C. Hawkins in The Awkward Season, writes this Ash Wednesday prayer of confession:

O God, who makes all things new,

new stars, new dust, new life;

take my heart,

every hardened edge and measured beat,

and create something new in me.

I need your newness, God,

the rough parts of me made smooth;

the stagnant, stirred;

the stuck, freed;

the unkind, forgiven.

And then, by the power of your Spirit,

I need to be turned toward Love again.

Amen

The Awkward Season in its simplicity is a good companion guide for me. I don't know where your journey will take you during Lent. Whatever you do, pursue it passionately. Hunger after God. At 7 pm tonight, I'll have one more chocolate for the road, as this pilgrimage begins.

On the journey,

Alecia