The Transfiguration of Christ: Listen to Him!

Sermon 5
February 10, 2013

Lisa was 15 years old, dark-haired, and 6 foot tall when I met her…and she was already a beauty (#32). It was my first teaching job and, of course, it came with a coaching position. Volleyball. I was so excited for this new challenge but also scared to death. 

I met the girls and their parents a few weeks before school started. And Lisa could smash the ball. She was a power house.

Those girls were sure special to me. In fact, all of those Healy kids were. We were there for three years…watching Lisa and her classmates grow up—going from gangly, goofy sophomores to graduated seniors ready to leave for college.

I saw Lisa several years later when she married Jason then got to see her briefly at a funeral when she was pregnant with her first child, Jaren.

And then tragedy struck.

Lisa and Jason were expecting their second child the next month. With four-year-old Jaren in his car seat in the back of the car, they were driving home from a delightfully baby shower in Lisa’s home town of Healy. 

As they approached an oncoming car, a deer jumped out in front of it. When the approaching car hit the deer, the impact shot the deer right into their windshield. Like a bullet, this large animal went through the driver’s side of the vehicle and shot out the back window.

Lisa realized Jason was unconscious and had to fight to get the vehicle stopped. She screamed Jaren’s name and he was so brave when he answered her, “Mommy, I am okay.” But Jason was not. Lisa used her cell phone to call 911 and then just tried to hold Jason steady while she kept her finger on the pulse she could feel in his neck.

But Jason died on the way to the hospital. And Lisa was left as a single mother to endure the labor and delivery of her second child without her husband by her side.

She was lost. And she needed a word from God.

 Have you been there? Maybe not to this extreme. But have you needed God’s direction? His comfort? His strength?

I want you to imagine that day long ago when Jesus took Peter, James, and John on top of that mountain. Jesus had been teaching, healing, and performing miracles. We just heard from the word of God that Jesus predicted his death and resurrection and then about a week later he took Peter, James, and John up there to pray.

So there they were, climbing up the mountain. And all of a sudden Peter, James, and John realized that they were no longer alone with Jesus. There were two other guys. On top of a “high mountain”.

Can you picture the astonishment? They would not have recognized these men.

Think about it. We know now that these two men were Moses and Elijah…great men of the faith who had lived hundreds of years before. Peter, James, and John would only know them by the stories that have been handed down from generation from generation. Their stories, of course, were read by these three in the Torah.

There weren’t pictures!

So here are these two extra men…talking to Jesus. And they’re all shining.

They are pretty confused at this point. And I would guess that they were pretty freaked out.

God talked to Jesus through Elijah and Moses! Who would believe that? Well, I suppose Peter, James and John would, wouldn’t they?

And actually, God spoke to them also. Once he had their attention, He said, “This is my son. Listen to him!” Who was God speaking to? He wasn’t speaking to Jesus, Elijah, or Moses. God himself spoke to Peter, James, and John in a voice from the sky. Who would believe that?

Can you imagine them telling that story once they got down? Ha! They didn’t! We are told that they kept it to themselves.

How in the world could they keep it to themselves? Well…it would sound a bit crazy, wouldn’t it?

Think about other times in the Bible when God spoke to people. Sometimes it was an audible voice, like this. But He also spoke to people through a large hand writing on a wall, dreams, visions, prophets, angels, Jesus, and finally, the Bible.

The Bible. This is the obvious way that God chooses to speak to us. He inspired the writers of this book and insured that those words would last forever. 168,000 Bibles are sold or given away every single day. How many Bibles are in your house right now? I did a quick count around our house last night and found 26.

But 26 Bibles don’t share with You the Word of God if you never pick one of them up and read it. Read it! And read it with the expectation that God has something to tell you through it. Because He does! And He will! This is the most basic, most obvious, way that God speaks to us. If you are seeking His guidance but not bothering to read His Word, you need to back up and work on your relationship with Him. And relationships hinge on our ability to “listen”. So read…and listen to Him.

But relationships are a two-way street, so it’s also important that we talk.

In our scripture reading today, we learned that Jesus took Peter, James, and John up the mountain to pray. Throughout the gospels, Jesus often took time to go off to pray. I had a friend tell me a while back, “I don’t really pray. God knows my thoughts so I don’t need to take the time to pray to Him.” I’ve heard other people make this same comment. Let me ask you…If Jesus needed time to pray, why in world should you feel like you don’t.

Sometimes I worry that we model prayer as a complicated thing. It’s not. It’s a conversation with God. Just speak to Him. He will answer. Are you waiting, watching, and listening for it?

My friend, Charity, shared a story about God answering her prayer. Charity and Mark were newlyweds. They were loving life! They were young and had the time to do the things THEY wanted to do. Living out in the country between two towns gave them a privacy and solitude that many of us don’t understand.

But during one winter storm in 1992, things changed. Charity and Mark each got snowed in a different town. On the third day, Charity felt that the roads were cleared enough that she could get home. So she headed that way (without telling anyone) with plans to surprise Mark. But about a mile and a half from home, she slammed into a drift and was stuck.

Although she knew it would be smartest to stay in the warm car, she also knew exactly where she was and convinced herself that she could make the walk home. But about 100 yards into her walk, she lost her bearings. She was lost. And after a while, it was dark. The cold was burning her hands. She pulled them up into her sleeves and pulled her arms to her chest then squatted down to provide as much body heat as possible.

She prayed and prayed, and God answered her. He LITERALLY answered her. "Have children," he clearly said to her. She heard it. You see, at the time, she and Mark did not intend to have children. She knew he didn't want them and she was willing to go along with what he wanted. But she heard God's voice, and she promised God that if He would save her, she would have children and raise them up to serve Him.

About twenty minutes later she saw some headlights. How Mark realized she was missing and found her is a whole other story in itself. But suffice it to say, Charity was saved. And she kept her promise.

Seven of them…although one is already with God. Six beautiful children love and walk with God every day because of message that God gave their mother one winter.

Prayer. God wants to have a relationship with you. Talk to Him…and listen to Him.

God also talks to us through other Christians—the church.

How many times have I sat in this room…in this very room…and been touched so deeply by the Holy Spirit that tears have flooded my eyes and run down my cheeks? More times than my kids will let me forget! Ugh…is mom crying again?? 

But it’s not just in the sanctuary…or necessarily in the church building at all. Part of the church meets here on Sunday morning, but “the church” is the collective body of Christians in the world.

God uses you and I (the church) to talk to his people. Wow! I believe that we often don’t even realize when God uses us to give a much needed word to another human being much less how. But that’s one reason that it is so important that we come together as the church. We need each other. The body of Christ needs all of its members. God uses our time together to talk to us through one another. Come together…and listen to Him.

And finally, God uses circumstances.

What about Moses and the burning bush? Think about it. Imagine that you are out mowing the lawn this summer and out of the corner of your eye you realize that one of your bushes is on fire…and then God starts talking to you through it. Sound a little crazy? Think you might think twice about sharing that with others? 

You know, the thing is…God gets our attention in whatever way He knows He can get our attention.

Some of you have heard the story of my call to ministry. It involves the story of the Transfiguration. In fact, after Pastor David gave me the dates I would be preaching this year, I was at my desk and I thought…I’ll bet one of them is Transfiguration Sunday. So I turned to the first one…and sure enough.

It’s a long story that I will share with you when you have a free couple of hours, but the abbreviated version is that God has reinforced every step of this journey into ministry with the story of the transfiguration. Including today. God is talking to me right now, through this time with you.

But God also talks to me in other ways…ways He knows will get my attention.

As Pastor Watson has been mentoring me into ministry, he allows me to come to his office for a weekly meeting to talk about things going on in my job and in my walk with God. One day, I asked him…have I ever told you the story of my call to ministry. And he said, “I don’t think so.” I said, “Well, it’s a long story, but I will tell you this. God talks to me through Bruce Springsteen.” 

Pastor David just sat back and smiled…then said, “I don’t think I’d tell that to the Board of Ordained Ministry.”

Ha!

But it’s true. It’s not ALWAYS true. And when I’m seeking the answer to a question, I don’t pull out my “Born in the USA” CD and listen to it to find the answer. After all, I don’t worship Bruce Springsteen.

But I’m grateful that I have a God that knows me so well and pursues me so diligently that he would be so creative in the way that he speaks to me.

Some people experience God through visions or dreams. Do these things sound crazy? Really, Gina. Bruce Springsteen? God’s voice in a snow storm? Visions? Dreams? Yes…and a burning bush, and a giant hand writing on a wall, and a talking donkey, and a pillar of cloud and fire, and Moses and Elijah on top of a mountain.

Sound crazy. Oh yes. That’s why Peter, James, and John kept it a secret. But it’s not crazy.

A couple days after Jason died, Lisa had a dream about him. In this dream Jason was sitting on a huge gold throne. Lisa was at his feet looking up at him. He reached his hand out and told her that everything was going to be OK. He then proceeded to give her instructions on how to take care of the finances, which made her laugh because she had no clue about any of their finances. He was an accountant, after all, and just took care of them. When she woke up the next day, although she was still so sad, she felt a calming peace and knew that this was God's message to her that Jason was in Heaven and that everything would be OK.

Lisa remarried a few years ago.

Scott had lost his wife to an extended illness in the days between the death of Jason and the birth of Lynsi. Each has a son and a daughter and are now raising them all together while daily celebrating the lives of the spouses they lost.

God will also talk to you through circumstances in your life. I don’t know what that will look like. But I believe more in “God-incidences” than coincidences. Are you paying attention? Look around…and listen to Him.

Father in heaven, We thank you that you are a God who is present with us. You are active and involved in our lives…not distant and uncaring. 

Lord, open our eyes…open our hearts and our minds to you. Speak to us in ways that you know we will understand and give us the strength to respond to You obediently. Amen

Being God's People in 2013

Sermon 4
December 30, 2012

Why are you here?

I often tell the story of how First United Methodist Church in Salina became our church home. We moved here in June of 2006. It was a priority to find a church. Although we were members of the UMC in the small western town that we came from, we were not raised in the UMC. We decided to go to some different churches and felt that when we found the right one, it would feel like “home”. So we did just that.

We left some of them feeling that they were cold and distant. We left others feeling like we had just attended a rock concert that lacked any spiritual connection for us. And some, we were just trying to get out of there as soon as possible while holding in our uncomfortable giggles.

Then we came here.

Do you remember the summer of 2006? We walked in from the circle drive, down the steps, and took a left into the worship area. That’s right…blue paint, folding chairs, and a bad sound system.

But that isn’t what we saw. We were warmly welcomed by a loving congregation. We connected with the music. The message was powerful and meaningful. I have cried through many services in this church…including some of those at the very beginning. When we left, we knew we wanted to come back.

And we did.

I don’t know how long we attended before we realized that the sanctuary was actually above us. And I remember catching my first glimpse of it that December…and being in awe of the beauty of it. I was amazed at the faithfulness and generosity of the people who would give so much to renovate this beautiful space.

I realized that this was not a church of people who were inward focused. They (YOU) were interested in furthering God’s Kingdom in the world. This building is a beautiful yet functional tool of the church—God’s people.

Our children began making connections through the Children and Youth ministry programs. We know that FUMC is to be credited for helping us transition our children from small town western Kansas to the big city. (And YES…this was a BIG city to us!) This was especially true for Tana who was beginning those awkward middle school years. What a rough time for us to uproot her whole world.

But ministry wasn’t just happening within these walls. The more we got involved, the more we saw how First United Methodist Church was (and IS) reaching out to the community of Salina and the world. And that was (and is) important to us.

In fact, I believe that it is important to all Christians. After all, Jesus came as God reaching out to this world. 

Paul’s letter to the people of Colossae gives us specific instructions on how we, God’s people, should BE God’s people. He tells us to “clothe” ourselves in:
• Compassion
• Kindness
• Humility
• Gentleness
• Patience

I like that Paul chose the word “clothe”.

By saying that we “clothe” ourselves in these things he seems to be acknowledging that this is not our natural state. We must choose to put on these things…even though they may be uncomfortable or not fit properly. Maybe they are a bit scratchy to our skin. And yet, we should wrap ourselves in them and learn to be comfortable in them.

Did any of you get a new coat or new shoes for Christmas? They don’t feel quite right when we wear them that first or second time, do they? Yet, as we continue to wear them, they begin to feel right. They become a part of us—normal, familiar, “broken in”.

Well, these “clothes” that Paul talks about are the same way.

Compassion. What does it mean to “clothe” oneself in compassion? It means that we wrestle to overcome our own biases and try to put ourselves in the shoes of others. This isn’t always easy. Sometimes we are unable to relate to the situations of others. In fact, when this is the case, it’s very easy to become judgmental. We are not called to judge the world.

Nothing teaches us more about compassion than being put in a situation where we ourselves need compassion. Now…I don’t believe that God makes bad things happen to us to teach us compassion. But, I do believe that God uses the bad things that happen to us, or that we bring upon ourselves, to teach us compassion. We have all survived experiences that have made us more compassionate to others who may one day go through the same thing.

In what ways has God helped you learn compassion? To whom might He need you to show compassion to in the future?

Kindness. What does it mean to “clothe” oneself in kindness? Being kind isn’t about what you do as much as it is about how and why you do it.

Let’s say that you and I meet for coffee and I surprise you by paying the tab and leaving a tip. Am I being kind? Well, the act itself seems like a kind thing to do. But is it kind if I’m needing a favor from you so I’m doing it with the hope of getting something better in return? Is it kind if I do it because I want to impress you (or others) so I pay the bill and then resent that you let me do such a thing?

Kindness doesn’t expect paybacks or recognition. In fact, Paul uses the word “kind” in his letter to the people of Corinth to describe love. Do you remember that he says that “Love is patient. Love is kind.” I’d like to share of story of kindness with you.

A few weeks ago, a young clerk at Target shared this story as a post on facebook.

“Cried today at work... An elderly man who openly stated that he didn't have much, couldn't read or write, came through my lane today. I've had a cold so making conversation with people today wasn't my top priority. This man was so kind and generous and he put a smile on my face. He was buying necessities and toys for children. He asked me to double bag his purchases because he was walking. When it came time to ring him up, I assisted him with writing a check. However, his check didn't go through and he had no other way to pay. It broke my heart that this kind man wasn't able to pay for his things. I sadly watched him go as the next customers came up. They were obviously annoyed with the wait so I went through quickly. Then I see a young lady about my age catch up with the elderly man and offered to pay for his things. I started tearing up. He kept saying thank you so much, thank you and she replied, 'Merry Christmas.' I was trying so hard to not visibly cry but it all came out when the girl turned to look at me and was crying too.”

Nothing was expected in return. This simple act was done quietly with silent tears by a young girl who was clothed with the compassion and kindness of Christ.

Humility. Now here’s a tough one. What does it mean to “clothe” oneself in humility? Have any of you read “The Purpose-Driven Life” by Rick Warren? It’s been out now for several years and I’ve given it to many people since its publication. It begins with four words that define humility in my mind….”It’s not about you.” It’s not about you! It’s not about me! Man, that’s a tough concept to swallow. Even as I prepared for this message today, I fought the urge to worry about how I would come across, how I would look before you this morning, how my words might affect you…and I reminded myself that it is NOT about me!

In the book of John, Jesus tells a parable about the vine and the branches. John 15:5 says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.” We would do well to remember this when we are patting ourselves on the back.

Humility requires that we understand that our accomplishments are not ours. Our good fortune? Not ours. Even our acts of kindness…they would accomplish nothing apart from Christ. “Apart from me you can do nothing.”

Gentleness. How do we clothe ourselves with gentleness? Aren’t kindness and gentleness the same thing? Well, no. We can offer to dust mother’s china. That’s a kind thing to do. But there is a difference between gently and roughly dusting the China! When we do something with gentleness, we do it with care, with caution, with tenderness. In fact, sometimes the most kind thing to do is a painful thing—and that’s when our gentleness is the most important.

When I was in first grade I had to start taking allergy shots. Each Thursday (and I hated Thursdays for years and years!) I had to go to the clinic and get a shot in each arm until I was a junior in high school. My skin got tough over those year and the nurses often could not be very gentle.

Do you remember taking your new baby for his or her first immunizations? We get our children immunized because we love them…we are being kind by protecting them. And we expect those who are giving these injections to be as gentle as possible.

Sometimes we must give someone hurtful news. It’s the kind thing to do. So we need to do so with gentleness…a soft touch. We need to take as much of the sting out of it as we can. Be gentle with one another.

Patience. How do we clothe ourselves with patience? Well, look at the list. It these things are in place, patience is a natural outcropping of them. It requires compassion, kindness, humility, and gentleness. I think that is why so many of us struggle with it! It is a combination of the others! In fact, patience (you may remember) is a fruit of the spirit. One way that we can gauge whether or not we are growing in grace, is to look at our patience level. Practice patience. Pray for patience.

Besides this clothing…Paul also tells us to “bear” with each other. The verb “bear” means to hold up or support. “Bearing” something is not pleasant. So when Paul instructs us to “bear” with each other, we are being called to enter into one another’s suffering and be a support. Ugh! Paul! The other things were sweet and light. They didn’t require sacrifice.

And then he really drops the bomb when he tells us to forgive one another…pointing out that we ourselves have received forgiveness from the Lord. Forgiveness.

Have you went to see “Les Miserables” yet? It’s the only professional Broadway-type musical I’ve ever seen live. I saw it with my oldest daughter a few years back. So it’s the only things she wanted for Christmas—to go see the movie at the theater that day. So on Tueday, Christmas Day, Tana and I went to the show. What a beautiful story of grace…of forgiveness. It’s a glorious thing to watch. It’s even more glorious to RECEIVE. But to give it. Well, that’s tough. Because, you see, in order to give it…someone has to “wrong” you. And when someone “wrongs” you, you are usually disappointed. You are usually hurt. You are often angry.

Is there someone who has wronged you? Someone who has disappointed and hurt you? Are you feeling anger toward someone because of a wrong they have committed? Well then, you have been given an opportunity to show grace…to offer forgiveness.

"But they don’t deserve it!", you might say.  Hmph…neither did I…neither did you.

He tells us to “put on” love which will bind it all together…perfectly. But Paul doesn’t stop there. He goes on with more specific instructions:
• Let the “peace of Christ rule your hearts”
• Be thankful.
• Learn about Christ. Teach about Christ. Correct one another. Sing to God! All with grateful hearts.
• Do everything in Jesus’ name while giving thanks.

We each must examine ourselves. Are we doing these things? • Compassion • Kindness • Humility • Gentleness • Patience • Bearing with each other • Forgiving one another • Being at peace. • Being thankful. • Learning. • Teaching. • Singing. • Being grateful.

But we can’t stop there. We, as Americans, are fiercely independent people. It’s a western mindset that we have. But we are all member of one body…the body of Christ…the church. What are we doing as a church to carry out Paul’s instructions? What are we doing to be God’s people?

Well, we are doing things. In fact, I started this sermon by sharing with you some of the things that First United Methodist Church was doing that helped us see Christ working through this body.

1. Inviting people in our doors.

2. Missions—food bank, Lisa in Honduras, Operation Christmas Child, Salvation Army… And in 2013, it is important that we continue to expand the opportunities that we have as a congregation to be God’s people.

3. Lifetree Café. Have you come to Lifetree Café yet? Lifetree Café is an opportunity to reach out to those in our community who (for whatever reason) don’t come to church. It’s a way to participate in conversations that allow people to express their questions and doubts while helping them get to know the God who loves them. There is a card in your bulletin. If you are interested in this ministry, mark the appropriate box so we can follow up. If you are unsure, come Wednesday night and check it out. You won’t be disappointed. 

Those who have been active in this ministry from the beginning, see great potential for it. Come join us and help us discover what God has in store for this ministry.

4. Service. One of the things I have realized throughout this year is that ministry always starts with a need. With Lifetree Café, the “need” is the large number of people out there who don’t have a relationship with Christ. But there are lots of other needs in Salina.

Beginning on January 12, we as a congregation will have the opportunity monthly to do something about these needs. With nothing expected or wanted in return. This is a way for us to corporately carry out our responsibility as the Body of Christ. It’s called “First in Service”. Although it’s the 2nd Saturday in January, every other month this year it will be held on the third Saturday.

On this day from 9:00 to 11:00 we will come together to meet some needs. Each month it will change. One need each month may be a church need, but the other will come from the community. When you come to the church, you will have options. Will you use your SHAPE to put together flyers for the Parade of Lights or will you use your SHAPE to knit a pad for the kittens at the local animal shelter. Will you bake cookies that will be delivered to the Morrison house or will you craft a bowl for a fundraiser for the food pantry?

Each month it will change. Each month you will get to try something new when you can fit it into your schedule. There is no financial requirement…just your time and the use of your gifts and talents are needed. 

So…do you know your SHAPE? Do you know how God has gifted you for service in HIS kingdom? If you don’t, another “Finding Your SHAPE” class is coming up quickly! But sometimes, the best way to discover your passions is to just give some different things a try.

Everyone is welcome. Come. Let’s be God’s people together in 2013.

Who Gets the Glory?

Sermon 3
October 21, 2012

How many of you watch NASCAR? In our culture, NASCAR is a big deal right now…and we celebrate the winners. In fact, many people practically worship them. It’s no wonder that pride is such an issue in our culture. But is it a new issue? Not at all. Even the disciples struggled with pride.

Mark 10:35-45 tells us that James and John asked, “Let one of us sit at your right and the other at your left in your glory.” But this is actually (at least) the second time that such an issue came up. Luke 9:46 tells about this conversation among the disciples: An argument arose among them as to which of them was the greatest.

And, this was not the first time that these men, who wanted to be seen as great, had let Jesus down. Remember back in the boat when the storm came up and they were afraid they might drown? After angrily waking Jesus, he calmed that storm. They would also continue to let him down…falling asleep when He had asked them to keep watch at the Garden of Gethsemane and later scattering when he was arrested…even denying him.

Why in the world would they feel that they deserved glory anyway? Well, they probably felt pretty special! After all, Jesus had selected them. They had witnessed miracles and listened to Jesus teach crowds. And Jesus took the time to share with them the meanings of those parables that are complex and difficult to understand.

 Also…they had worked hard. Jesus ministry was not easy. They left their homes. They traveled and stayed with strangers. It was physically demanding. They were even given the power to heal and cast out demons. Is it a wonder that they were so proud?

 This pride is even easier to understand when you consider that it is a condition that people have battled from the beginning. Adam and Eve were easily swayed once Satan appealed to their pride. “If you want to be like God, just eat from the tree.” David, a man after God’s own heart, let his own glory and his riches lead him to sin. And Solomon, with his riches, fame, and wisdom, had everything that prideful people today still seek…but none of it gave him happiness. He admits in Ecclesiastes that “everything is meaningless.”

So how did Jesus respond to the disciples when they were arguing over their “greatness”? Well, in Luke 9:47-48, it says, “But Jesus, knowing the reasoning of their hearts, took a child and put him by his side and said to them, ‘Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives him who sent me. For he who is least among you all is the one who is great.’”

Why did he choose a child to make this point? Children were not valued in that culture as they are valued in our culture. By selecting this child, he was telling them to embrace even those who they perceive to have little to no value as a person. He indicated that they…that we should receive those who are “less”…then he went on to say that we should also receive him if we want to receive God. And finally, he made it quite clear that in order to be “great” and receive “glory”, we must humble ourselves.

In Mark, when James and John were seeking places of glory beside Jesus, he said, “You don’t even know what you’re asking.” He asked them, “Can you drink the cup I drink?” Well, what kind of question is that? What was Jesus’ cup? Do you remember these words from Jesus that were uttered that night in the Garden? Take a look at Luke 22:42. “Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done.” Jesus’ cup was his crucifixion.

 “Can you drink the cup I drink?” And they said, “We can.” And Jesus said, “You will.” And you know what? They did. Each of the disciples died an agonizing death for their faith in Jesus Christ.

 Next Jesus asked them, “Can you be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” What did he mean by that? Wasn’t He baptized in the water just like everyone else? Listen to this testimony from John the Baptist…the man who baptized Jesus. (John 1:29-33): “I saw the Spirit come down from heaven as a dove and remain on him. And I myself did not know him, but the one who sent me to baptize with water told me, ‘The man on whom you see the Spirit come down and remain is the one who will baptize with the Holy Spirit.’”

The Holy Spirit came down from heaven and remained on him. He was baptized with the Holy Spirit.

“Can you be baptized with the baptism I am baptized with?” Jesus asked. “We can,” they answered. And Jesus said, “You will.” And, guess what. They did. Do you remember Pentecost? After his resurrection and ascension, Jesus sent the Holy Spirit, the Companion, to live within every believer…including James and John.

So, did Jesus grant them the places of glory they requested? Jesus told James and John that these places of honor had been prepared for specific people and he did not reveal who would be at his left and right hand.

But this conversation leaked out. I’m not sure who spilled the beans, but word got out that James and John were politicking for positions. And the other disciples were not happy. So Jesus called them together and compared them to rulers who abuse their power. Then, again, he reiterated the value of humility: “whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”

I began today by asking you about NASCAR. Raise your hand if you’ve heard the name Darrell Waltrip.

In 1981-1982 Waltrip and his team had an amazing two-year period. They won 24 races and 2 championships. They were nearly unbeatable! And Darrell’s pride was out of control. When he would show up at the hotel in the town of the next race and was asked, “Are you here for the show?” Waltrip would answer, “No ma’am, I am the show.” In fact, Richard Petty used to say “That boy might win a lot of races and he may make a lot of money but he’ll never be Nascar’s most popular driver.” The fans hated him and even wore t-shirts that said “Anybody but Waltrip.” 

But in 1983, he hit a wall—figuratively, spiritually, and physically. He was knocked completely out and, although he raced in races and continued life as normal, he has no memory of the next couple of weeks. Then in the third week, he “woke up”. And he started searching for the Lord and soon after accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Savior.

 He was, and is, a changed man. In his video on the “I am Second” website, he says that success can’t be kept for ourselves. Jesus didn’t keep the glory for himself…he gave it to us! And he quotes the Bible when he goes on to say, “You can do all things through Jesus Christ.”

So what reward did Waltrip get for receiving Jesus, receiving God. Well, it wasn’t another championship. But he was voted most popular driver in 1989 and 1990. When he became a servant, he became great. And great was defined differently than he had anticipated. Waltrip’s advice: “Put Him first in everything you do. Give Him the glory and give Him the praise.”

Giving ourselves the glory when we are simply using gifts from God as we go through this life reveals our selfish and prideful nature. I once heard a pastor say, “Either live your life humbly or God will teach you humility the hard way.”

What about me? Who get the glory in my life?

What about you?

I challenge you to embrace someone this week who needs help just as Jesus embraced children, prostitutes, tax collectors, and others that needed help. Without giving yourself the glory, help them. Maybe that means leaving them a gift card, maybe it means mowing their law…it could just mean leaving a pick-me-up note or car wash tokens. Who is someone in your life who is in need of a servant? Then serve them…and leave an anonymous note that gives God (and not you) the glory.

Yes, It's Small...But It's Powerful Video

 

Part I

 

 

 

Part II


 

Yes, it's small...but it's powerful!

My 2nd Sermon
September 16, 2012


Not many of you should become teachers, my fellow believers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly. We all stumble in many ways. Anyone who is never at fault in what they say is perfect, able to keep their whole body in check. 

When we put bits into the mouths of horses to make them obey us, we can turn the whole animal. Or take ships as an example. Although they are so large and are driven by strong winds, they are steered by a very small rudder wherever the pilot wants to go. Likewise, the tongue is a small part of the body, but it makes great boasts. Consider that a great forest is set on fire by a small spark. The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body. It corrupts the whole body, sets the whole course of one’s life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell. 

All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. 

With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.  --James 3:1-12

There are several “James” in the New Testament.  When you hear the name, you may think of the brothers, James and John, who were Disciples of Christ.  That’s a different James.    The James that wrote this epistle (this letter) was the half-brother of Jesus according to most theologians.  Can you imagine having Jesus as your brother?  He grew up with him!

They played together, learned together, probably stayed up late giggling together when they were little.  Then they got older, and they got busy with their lives…their careers... …and then one day Jesus started proclaiming that he was God.  I want you to imagine your own siblings (or cousins if you were an only child).  How would you react if your sibling one day told you they were God?  Well, James handled it about that well.  The book of Mark tells us:  When his family heard about this, they (and “they” were his brothers) went to take charge of him, for they said, “He is out of his mind.”

Yet, at the beginning of the book of James, he refers to himself as “James, a servant of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ”.  He watched his brother’s ministry.  He watched his brother’s death.   And he witnessed his brother in his resurrected body.  He was convinced.  In fact, he served as the head of the church in Jerusalem.  We know this because Paul mentioned this in his letter to the people of Galatia. 

James was so certain that his brother was, in fact, Lord that the historian Josephus tells us that in AD62, the high priest sentenced him to death by stoning in Jerusalem.  Other historians of that time, including Eusebias gave further details.  They said that James was taken to the top of the temple and told to renounce his faith in Jesus publicly.  When he refused and instead publicly confessed Jesus as “the Son of God, Savior, and Lord” he was thrown from the temple.  However, he was not killed on impact…so they stoned him to death.

James’ lived with Jesus and he didn’t believe.  But then he saw the evidence and he gave his life in defense of Jesus’ claims.  He, an eye-witness, was THAT convinced.  Interestingly, he speaks in his letter not as someone who talks about Christ, but as someone who talks like Christ.  He offers us advice--“inspired” advice that we would be wise to heed.

We are warned by James that we don’t all want to be teachers.  Ha!  Teaching isn’t the respected and coveted vocation that it was in his day.  His warning is severe…one who teaches will be face a “stricter judgment”.  Obviously he’s talking about those who teach God’s Word.  He is so real and so relevant in his speech…telling us straight out that “We all stumble…”  Not—YOU stumble.  But, WE ALL stumble.
  
He makes an interesting statement next saying that those who are never at fault in their words, are able to keep their whole body in check.  Get this right, now.  He’s not talking about those who can always say the right thing in public, but those who always say the appropriate and Godly thing no matter what the circumstance.  No matter who’s watching…who’s listening…   Why does what we say have anything to do with our “whole body”?  Well, James gives us some examples:

The first is a horse.  To communicate with the horse, riders use a bit and bridle.  By pulling on the reins, they are able to send messages to the horse using leverage and pressure.  Without such a device, communication is lost.  That one small piece of equipment controls the whole horse.

What about a ship?  An entire ship’s course is determined by the movement of a relatively small rudder.

The tongue works the same way for us. Our boasts affect our actions.  And this is not always in a good way.

We have had a summer in which we have watched areas around us deal with grass and forest fires.  What is need to start those fires?   Just one spark.

Our tongues can set those sparks.  In fact, James says that our tongues can set the whole course of our lives on fire.  Really?  Words can change the course of our lives?  Words can change the course of history?  You bet they can.

How about Hitler’s famous speech at the Reichstag on September 1, 1939 in which he declared war on Poland?  People around the globe sat by their radios listening to the words of one man to see if the course of history would be forever changed.  And a whole, civilized, nation was convinced to engage in barbarism.

How about Jim Jones teaching to more than 900 who committed mass suicide by drinking cyanide-tainted kool-aid?  Their lives were so altered by the words of one man that even mothers and fathers were convinced to feed that kool-aid to more than 200 children.  Two people survived.  How about the relentless bullies at school whose words lead to the suicides of hundreds of American teens each year?  Or the bullies at work who seem to take such glee out of making others miserable?  These words don’t just change the course of their own lives, but the courses of others.

James' depiction of where the tongue gets this fire is particularly distressing.  He says that the tongue is set on fire by hell.  The actual word he uses here is “Gehenna”  Jesus was the only other person that used this term to define hell.  Gehenna refers to the Valley of Hinnom.  Originally this deep gorge just southwest of Jerusalem was a location used by the Canaanites to worship the false god Molech.  They actually sacrificed their own children to this demon.

Because this site had been used for such a vile practice, it became simply a dump.  It wasn’t seen as suitable for anything else.  Trash and filth were thrown in the gorge along with dead animals and the bodies of unburied criminals.  All of this was burned in the pit to dispose of it.  There were constant, unending fires there.  It’s no wonder that Jesus and James used such a disgusting image (of which the listeners would’ve been familiar) to describe hell. 

So James is saying that our tongue is as vile as Gehenna?  Yes, yes he is.  He says it is a “restless evil” and “full of deadly poison”.  But we do good things with our words, right?  Of course we do!

In fact, I’m going to give you a little reminder of the positive power that our tongue has!  Will the Usher’s please distribute the “tongue suppressors”.  That’s right…I said tongue suppressor, not tongue depressor.  Written on each one of these is a positive word…maybe through God’s providence you will choose the word you needed to be reminded of today…the word that needs to enter your mind when you next feel the urge to utter something poisonous.

Our tongues can do wonderful things.  For example, we are here today praising God and praying corporately.  Yet were some of us guilty this morning of cussing another driver on the way to worship God? (Don’t you be looking around!)  Will some of us be guilty of doing it on the way home?  When you watch your favorite football team play this afternoon, will you holler obscenities at the TV…possibly even using the Lord’s name in vain?  Are you using that tongue of yours to both praise God but curse other human beings.

I’ll use James’ words here…“My brothers and sisters, this should not be.”

Our tongues reveal who we are.  Whether we are watching football, talking in private confidence with a good friend, driving alone in our car, or out with our best friends on a Friday night.

You see, our words produce fruit.  As I share God’s message with you today, I am producing fruit.  My prayer is that this fruit is good and that it is plentiful.  And it will be as long as I rely on the Holy Spirit to guide this message.  But what kind of fruit am I producing if I go home and cuss at the Kansas City Chiefs this afternoon?  Especially if my kids are watching with me?  Fruit grows and ripens over time.  They are watching and listening and processing the things we do and the words we say.  When those things don’t always jive, the fruit is not going to be good. 

James says that fresh water and salt water can’t come from the same spring.  If both kinds of water are coming out, it’s all going to be salty, isn’t it?  That fresh water is tainted.  We need to be consistent…in private as well as in public.  We can’t do this without the power of Christ.

Michael is about my age.  When he was 15, he and some friends decided that they were going to “ditch” their 3^rd hour class.  As they sat out in his friend’s Jeep waiting for the right moment to make their escape, another student ran by on his way to class…and something fell out of his pocket.  His wallet.  They retrieved it…and were delighted to find an ATM card.  (Yes, we had them back then but they were very new!)  Knowing that they needed a “pin” number, they continued to search through the wallet until they found something scribbled down that they thought might qualify as a pin. 

In the Jeep they pulled up to a local ATM machine and were grinning like idiots when the number worked…and as the cameras caught the whole escapade—the  pin attempt, the success, and the cash distribution between the three boys. 

A few days letter, the police came and pulled him out of class.  His mother met him in the police station and he was prepared to tell her that it was all his friends’ idea.  He was just in the vehicle.  It wasn’t his fault!  But, of course, the video betrayed his lies.  Luckily, the boy they stole from was a Christian and a friend.  He didn’t press charges and the boys were only required to pay back the money.

But Michael’s personal sentence was much tougher.  He was also a Christian, and yet he had made such a bad decision.  He was ashamed and humiliated—a liar and a thief. 

Soon after, he was over at the house of one of the friends who had participated in the fiasco.  He could overhear this friend’s mother as she was talking about him with another friend on the phone.  Oh no…this couldn’t be good. 

You might expect that I am going to say that she was bad-mouthing Michael.  “That kid is no good.  He’s a trouble-maker.  I wish my son wouldn’t hang out with him.”  No…these aren’t the words that Michael heard.  What she said was, “He has a good heart.”

“He has a good heart.” 

Michael received encouragement that day from someone who didn’t even know he was listening.  Those few little words for him were HUGE.  Now, 25 years later, he can still vividly picture that moment…and the 5 words that changed his life.

I want to show you a short video on the power of words.  Take a look.

Fruit of the Spirit: Kindness

My First Sermon
(Mother's Day 2012)

Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.

Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position.  Do not be conceited.

Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God’s wrath, for it is written: “It is mine to avenge; I will repay,” says the Lord. On the contrary:

“If your enemy is hungry, feed him;
if he is thirsty, give him something to drink.
In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.”

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.

--(Romans 12:9-21)

In doing so, you will heap burning coals on his head?!  Great…that sounds painful!  That’ll show him.    Hmmm…maybe that isn’t what that verse means.  After all, in verse 19 of this passage, we are instructed NOT to take revenge. 

In this passage, Paul is actually referring back to a Proverb (Proverbs 25:21-22) from the Old Testament.  These would’ve been part of the Jewish scriptures in which many of the hearers would’ve been in familiar.  In biblical times, ancient Egyptians had a practice of carrying hot coals on their head in some kind of vessel when they were repentant--when they had sinned, found themselves to be guilty, and turned away from their sinful behavior.   This was a self-punishment.  It indicated a guilty conscience.  It symbolized the person’s desire and commitment to change their behavior.  In being kind to someone, we aren’t putting some kind of curse on them that will catch their hair on fire or cause them pain.  We are leading them to repentance. 

Being kind in this situation can lead to a change of heart.  Sometimes, we never know how our acts of kindness may affect another person.

 

When I think about this, I realize that there are three areas of behavior that are affected when one is granted and embraces the fruit of kindness.  First, we must speak with kindness.  Proverbs 15:1 says “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”

 

My family is here today.  I grew up with 3 sisters…there were four of us.  My poor father.  Dad and Mom met—2 months later they started dating, 2 months later they were engaged, 2 months later they were married.  9 ½ months later, Casy was born.  Susan came 11 months after that!   They waited three years before I was born.  And then Lisa came 4 years later to take away my “baby of the family” status. 

As a child, my sisters and I often had disagreements.  Okay, that might be putting it a bit mildly.  I understand now how that feels as a mother!  Well, at some point or another one of us called another one of us a “pig”.  It didn’t go over well.  I’m sure that the perpetrator was thrilled!  So, this “cut-down” was used again…and then again.   When mom caught on and realized the hurtfulness that we associated with this word, she immediately put a stop to it.  We were NOT allowed to call another person a pig. 

Now, this chain of events must’ve taken place prior to my birth or when I was very, very young.  (In other words, my older sisters are to blame for this!)  Because from very early on, I knew that “pig” was a dirty word and we were not to use it in any other context than referring to a farm animal.  It was the ultimate put-down.  I remember one day a neighbor kid and I got into an argument.  In the heat of the battle, I used the “P” word.  Then I ran into the house just sure that his mom would be calling my mom and I would be in so much trouble for cussing. 

You see, my mother understood the importance of speaking to one another in kindness.  Words, even seemingly innocent ones, can be used as weapons.  I remember asking her about it when I was older, “Why did we all think “pig” was such a dirty word?”  She said, “If in your mind, something you want to say is meant to be hurtful, it IS a dirty word.”  Wise words from my mother on this Mother’s Day.  As I’ve grown older and witnessed passive-aggressive behavior by people who are able to say and do horribly painful things to others in a falsely-innocent way—completely aware of the painfulness of their words, I often think of my mother’s abolishment of the word, “pig”. 

We had a saying when I was young, “Sticks and stones will break my bones, but…” (congregation finishes).  What a bunch of bologna.  Broken bones heal.  Unkind words fester.  But, the opposite is also true.  Kind words can heal.  Have you spoken kind words to someone in your life lately?  Maybe this is the day that someone you know needs to hear kind words the most.  Take the time today to make the call, write the note, or visit with a person who needs your kindness today.

Second, we must act with kindness. 

 Has anyone ever asked you, “So you’re a Christian.  What do you believe?”  and wanted a short 1 or 2 sentence answer?  Where do you start?  How do you sum up the Bible in just a few words?  That can’t be done, can it?  Well, Jesus did it.  We call it “The Golden Rule”.  What is the Golden Rule?  That’s right. 

In Matthew 7:12, Jesus says, “So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”  This sums up the Law and the Prophets.  His audience knew what the “Law” and the “Prophets” were…it was the Old Testament, the Jewish Holy Book, the Holy Scripture that the people of Israel had studied since birth…summed up in a short sentence.  Treat people how you want them to treat you.  Kindness.

Rudo, Duncan, Alan, and Annie Grace

On Thursday I had the pleasure of spending the afternoon and evening with four delegates from Zimbabwe who are visiting the Kansas West Conference throughout this month.  We have begun a partnership, a Chibatza, with them.  It’s not about giving them money, it’s about building a relationship with them. 

Their culture highly values relationships.  In fact, Rudo told me that it is appropriate for her to call every woman old enough to be her mother, “Mother”.  Not just aunts and cousins, but any woman she feels close to.  That gives a whole new meaning to “Mother’s Day!”

May 1^st just passed.  Do you remember doing anything special on this day when you were young?   When I was little, I remember picking lilacs all the way home from school on May Day to leave them on the porches of our neighbors.  We would tie them together and write notes to put with our flowers, then ring the doorbell and run to hide and watch them find their surprise.  My neighborhood had several houses with older couples that have all passed away now, but I sure loved them when I was growing up.  Kindness doesn’t usually take much extra effort.  I think it was more rewarding for us kids to leave our May Day surprises than it was for them to receive them. 

Acts of kindness are world-changing.  I’m going to show a video that I think you’ll enjoy.  Notice, in particular, how the beginning and ending are related.   

Did you see the connection?  Did you notice that the kindness displayed did not only affect the person shown the kindness but also people who observed the kindness? 

It’s fun to see what our acts of random kindness can lead to.  Hebrews 13:2 says, “Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers, for by so doing some people have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”  We don’t know what burdens are other people are carrying.  It’s important to not judge…that is simply not our job.   “That kid shouldn’t have been riding on the sidewalk!  Where were his parents?!”  “That hungry man needs to go find a job!”  “I’ll bet that girls parents’ pay for the cell phone that she takes for granted.  What a spoiled brat.”  When you find yourself wanting to pass judgment on a stranger, keep this verse in mind.  He or she might just be an angel giving you the opportunity to show kindness.

What about our acts of focused and planned kindness?  Plans that one puts in place not just on the spur of the moment because one feels good, but because one took time to make arrangements, make sacrifices (financial, time…) and follow-through on a kindness that would make a difference to someone else.  Committing to yard or housework weekly for someone who is ill, taking meals to a new mother, providing care for someone who needs it, planning a celebration...

Even more difficult, what about those who are not kind to us? 

Paul says in his letter to the people of Ephesus, “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:32)  Forgiving is an act of kindness and compassion.  (Angrily) “But they don’t deserve to be forgiven!  They don’t even feel bad for their actions!  They don’t understand how badly they hurt me!”  Neither did you.  Neither did you.  Neither did you.

Finally, and this one actually should’ve been first—because if this one is in place, the others will be there also.  We must think with kindness. 

(Go down the aisle to Lisa.  "Your dress is beautiful!"  Turned to Kristy Foster and say quietly and snidely, "Did you see my sister's dress?!")

("Todd come here."  Turn him around and rub his back.  “There doesn’t that feel good?  "Are you enjoying my sermon?”  Turn him facing me.  Then turn around and wait for my back rub.  Say, "Okay" expectantly.  Todd just looks at me and sits back down.)

Do you see?  A kindness for some reward is not a kindness.   Those rewards come in all shapes and sizes—from simply making yourself feel superior to someone else, to getting some tangible reward--like a back rub.  That isn’t kind at all.  Being kind isn’t a word or an action, it’s an attitude…a lifestyle…a gift…a fruit of the Holy Spirit.

Luke 6:43-45:  No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit. People do not pick figs from thornbushes, or grapes from briers. A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in his heart. For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.

Stored up in the heart!  How do we change our hearts?  Do you remember the beginning?  Kindness...coal...repentance...change of heart.

We can’t transform ourselves into kind people, but the Holy Spirit can.  In fact, if we are truly Christ-followers, the Holy Spirit will!  The fruit of the spirit is not as much a list of things for which we should strive, as a gauge to measure our faithfulness in Christ. 

The fruit is a gift.

That’s the most important thing to remember from this message today.  If you only remember one thing, don’t let it be my husband’s back rub or my story about the word, “Pig”.  Let it be this:  Nothing we do…not loving, being peaceful or full of joy, not waiting patiently...can transform our lives, can save our souls.  After all, even the worst of us can “fake” fruit every now and then.   It is only through the power of the Holy Spirit given to us through Christ’s sacrifice by our Father God that we are transformed, that we truly bear fruit, and that we are saved.  God’s gifts are so awesome. 

(Prayer)

Before I step down, I wanted to quickly share something else that the people of Zimbabwe shared with me this week.  Because of the value they place on relationships, the value of individualism is very low.  Whereas we might say here, “We are, because I am.”  There, they say, “I am, because we are.”  I am so glad I got to share my very first sermon with all of you and this Mother’s Day.  I want you to know that I realize, “I am, because we are.” 

Now...let's sing our closing chorus...

Redemption...a Haiku

Tortured-soul, reckless.

Boastful sin                       

                     drowning                

                                 in shame.  

Sought.                          

                                              Grace.

                          through 

Restored 

I'm not a poet...but this morning I found myself thinking the first line of this haiku in the shower.  As I got around, it continued to haunt me.  Finally I grabbed the nearest piece of paper (a used envelope from Todd's dresser) and began to put down my thoughts.  I would walk away (I was in the middle of putting on make-up, getting dressed, brushing teeth, fixing hair, etc.!) and find myself coming back to the dresser to mark out a word or change a phrase.  

I don't know if it's any good.  Nor do I really care.  It means something to me...an expression of the gratefulness I feel for the amazing grace I don't deserve.  It needs to be recorded as part of this journey.