All Things Jesus

Unto Others As Unto Me

2007-04-11T14:39:00.000-07:00

In the midst of a persistent and perplexing war in Iraq and the non-ending battle between national political leaders to determine the best course of action, the media hoopla over the offhanded and off-color comments made by radio personality Don Imus appears off-base.

Aren’t there are more important issues to tackle? Does it seem the reaction to his “three word tirade” is equal to the response, especially when compared to the vulgar characterizations that so often fill the airwaves within a younger hip-hop and rap culture? Shouldn’t the far more dangerous issues of hunger, poverty and HIV/AIDS be emphasized more than hurt feelings over verbal insults-including those that purport to be said in humorous dialogue?

But in case those of us in the white community become too quickly dismissive of the offense experienced by the family and friends of the Rutgers Women’s Basketball Team, I offer a few observations regarding why this issue is so explosive.

(1.) When derogatory language is used within the hip-hop and rap culture, it is usually a dialogue within the community it describes instead of an assault from outside. For example, a disparaging comment I might make about men is less offensive than one I might make about women simply because I cannot legitimately explain their experience without actually being a part of it.

(2.) Also, when derogatory language is aired in hip-hop and rap it usually is done so in the abstract without identifying a specific person or persons. Yet, Mr. Imus was direct and specific. He was not talking about a generalized group of persons (which should be enough to get into trouble), but about a select group of real persons. His comments were reserved for a particular set of individuals who could not hear his comments without also receiving them as a personal attack upon their own personal appearance, character and behavior.

(3.) Further, Mr. Imus is considerably older and we might hope wiser than the famous hip-hop and rap promoters of similar disparaging exaggerations. Their youthfulness does not excuse their terrible excesses in profane language but neither does this similarity excuse Mr. Imus when he sinks to the lowest common denominator as well. His listening audience should demand a little more from him than that.

(4.) His excuse that he is a “good person who said a bad thing,” does little to belay the observation that he did not merely misspeak, but actually holds a deeper prejudice against those of different color. His indignant and reluctant apology reveals the same problem characteristic of a quick dismissal by those in the white community, namely an insensitivity to just how offensive such language is received by those to whom it is directed.

This recent illustration of the racial divide in our nation deserves serious attention. Until we can truly understand an issue from another’s vantage point, we will evermore stay entrenched in our prejudice and bias, all the while believing wrongly that we have somehow magically found ourselves on the other side of true reconciliation. In other words, believing that this was not a problem is the first indication that a real problem exists.

When interviewed on the “Today” program this morning, Rutgers head basketball coach C. Vivian Stringer (no stranger to adversity herself) was asked if Mr. Imus should be fired. She said she is not the one to make that decision but instead encouraged each American to examine and answer the question, “What kind of country do I want to live in?”

She elaborated how this recent episode is an opportunity to change the climate by changing what each of us says and thinks. “If those of us in positions of influence would take some leadership…. we could teach our young people what should be and we need to be shining examples so that we don’t have the kind of situation where Mr. Imus says ‘he is only reflecting on what a rapper said.’ If we set the example… there can be a return to real decency and respect for all peoples and all ethnic groups (in our land)”. It sounds to me like it should be the coach who deserves the microphone that Mr. Imus has, perhaps though too much familiarity, treated with such contempt.

Lord! Gimme my mansion.....NOW!

2007-03-22T10:55:00.000-07:00

I think I’m serving in the wrong denomination. A recent news story from the Detroit area reports that a Redford Township church has just brought its pastor and family a $ 3.65 million dollar mansion. Because the property now falls under the tax-exempt status afforded to churches, township officials were upset but had no choice but to lose the $ 40,000 in annual revenue for the 11,000 square foot home.

The understanding behind this development is an extravagant brand of Christian teaching known as a “health and wealth” theology. It is taught and obviously practiced by the 4,000-member Detroit World Outreach Church who surrounded their pastor with this lavish lifestyle. They believe God’s desires the faithful to do well and wants to abundantly supply them with beautiful things. Other more prominent names associated with the prosperity movement include Joel Osteen, T. D. Jakes and Pat Robertson.

Is there harm in this interpretation of being “blessed by God?” After all, Jesus is found saying in John 10:10 that his mission was to offer his followers life and to offer it “abundantly.” As a loving parent, why would God not want the best for all of God’s children?

Apart from the obvious inequity of distribution, I notice another telling problem with this “prosperity theology.” It is the temptation to limit our understanding of abundance to mere material possessions. Do we really believe that the acquisition of more and more stuff leads to greater and deeper fulfillment? Even if you are quick to answer a resounding “no,” I wonder how many still hold to a “mansion in the sky” hope that the sacrifices I endure on earth will be honored by greater rewards in heaven? If that is your perspective, then why should you have to wait until you die? Aren’t we supposed to pray “on earth as it is in heaven?”

But there is another possibility. What if abundance (and prosperity) as spiritual realities have very little to do with materialism? Could we value being rich in mercy, love and friendship as much as we value being surrounded with marble floors and vaulted ceilings? Could we appreciate the value of a beautiful sunset that is not marred by more concrete and drywall? What if we valued the process of increasing the size of our minds and our hearts as much as our living spaces? Would you still want to go to heaven if it was a call to service and not a Taj Mahal?

What makes living enjoyable is not always having more stuff. In the Synoptic gospels, Jesus teaches about the allure and worries of material possessions and riches that distance us from the kingdom of God. While material riches don’t always keep us out of the kingdom, it doesn’t always guarantee its arrival. With wealth comes greater responsibility and the warning that our love for it might blind us to deeper and more fulfilling pursuits.

So it is an irony of our times that the man who had no earthly home would also have such dedicated followers who see no conflict with a multi-million dollar parsonage. Perhaps more spiritual wisdom was offered by Township Clerk Sue Hillebrand who complained that Northville schools can ill afford to lose more revenue. But she's amazed by the church's generosity. "They could buy a very, very nice home out here for half a million," she said. "Can you imagine how many miracles you could perform, how many people you could help with the $3 million left over?"

Completely Hypocritical

2007-02-16T07:22:00.000-08:00

Thank goodness! After 90 days of “intense” counseling, it has been reported by Rev. Tim Ralph, one of a “four-man oversight board, that evangelical mega-pastor Tim Haggard is “completely heterosexual.” While there is some mention of other forms of therapy, I find this particular headline revealing. Notice little mention is made of the reconciliation and forgiveness of his wife to whom he was unfaithful. Nor is there any apology to those he so vehemently preached against while privately practicing the very same behaviors he taught were morally wrong. There is not even one sentence of gratitude to the grace and forgiveness of a God who in Jesus Christ loves all of us sinners especially in our failures and shortcomings.

Instead the observing public is offered the assurance, against all of our fears that at least this influential Christian evangelical (voted as one of the top twenty-five in 2005 by Time Magazine) is not in any shape or form a homosexual. It seems, from this perspective, that being a “homosexual” is a worse fate than participating in homosexual behavior. How ironic!

Especially when it is a twist on Jesus’ use of the “inward life” that reveals our double standard when we judge others. When talking to the moralists about their “hard-heartedness” toward adulterers, he takes them to task about the presence of lust in their own hearts (Matthew 5:27-28). In this way, Jesus hopes they might see that no one is “completely” pure. Yet in Haggard’s case, the inward life is implied to be “pure” when hardly a passing interest is offered to any amends to those Haggard may have harmed with his reckless behavior. I fail to see how this honors any standard of justice or reconciliation. But rest assured, at least he is not gay!

Please forgive me if I am making light of a very serious and complex issue facing the Christian world. In no way would I want to dismiss the authentic feelings of many sincere individuals who have struggled over the reality of homosexual identities and behaviors. But I fear the church is over-reaching on this one.

Currently, groups like “Exodus Student Ministries” and “Truth and Tolerance” have been bombarding the University of Kentucky campus with special events to promote an ‘anti-gay” agenda with the expressed purpose to help struggling students “overcome” their homosexual temptations. While this alternative is one way to address the issue, there are other options available to Christians who sincerely desire to do the right thing while seeking to lead healthy and moral sexual lives.

In the church, our hope is to deal with redemption, fairness and equality to all persons. But as illustrated with the Haggard incident it seems when dealing with the issue of homosexuality all the standards change. Here, there is such scrutiny that even an hint of “homosexual attraction” is worthy of a full court press, while heterosexual lust and immoral behavior among all Christians occurs about as frequently as with their non-Christian counterparts.

Clear thinking is necessary and below I’ve included some insightful essays and sermons that address this topic sensibly and fairly. They represent a minority opinion on the issue of homosexuality from a Christian perspective. But they are reasonable treatments that challenge our prejudices and over-simplified answers. They should be required reading for all Christian seeking clarity on this topic:

“The Bible, Homosexuality and Us” – A sermon by H. Stephen Shoemaker, Senior Minister of Myers Park Baptist Church in Charlotte North Carolina.

“Homosexuality and the Church” – A reflection and chronology of this issue in the local church by Larry Bethune, Pastor of University Baptist Church in Austin, Texas.

“What I Learned from Tommy” –. An antidotal account of early prejudice and final acceptance between two Christian friends, one heterosexual and the other homosexual by Miguel A. De La Torre- Associate Professor of social ethics at Iliff School of Theology in Denver

“When Religion Loses It’s Credibility.” An op-ed from Rev. Oliver “Buzz” Thomas, in USA Today Editorial November 19, 2006

For me, when it comes to the issues of sexual orientation and identity, I believe we enter into the area of conscience (that is between a person and his or her God) and for Baptists that has always been within the domain of personal liberty. In other words, the only person I can truly understand first hand is myself and of that I am “completely homeostatic.”

The Unlikely Leadership of Jimmy and Jesus

2007-01-31T12:54:00.000-08:00

Many of you have likely heard about the firestorm that has resulted from former President Jimmy Carter’s use of the word “apartheid” to describe the plight of Palestinians living in the occupied territories. According to Carter, the Palestinians are “being deprived of the necessities of life by economic restrictions imposed upon them by Israel and the United States.” Challenging Carter’s perspective is the Anti-Defamation League who countered, “Apartheid, that abhorrent and racist system in South Africa, has no bearing on Israeli policies. Not only are Israel’s policies not racist, but the situation in the territories do not arise from Israeli intentions to oppress or repress Palestinians but is a product of Palestinian rejection of Israel and the use of terror and violence against the Jewish state.” (Christian Century, January 23, 2007, p. 15).

Without entering into the technicality of what constitutes “apartheid,” what is particularly more striking to me, is the way the fear of terrorism is now driving every global issue. The term “terrorism” in the 21^st Century seems to function in the same way “communism” functioned in the later part of the 20^th Century. We can rationalize all manners of behavior, even the type that might lead to further acts of terrorism or even global suicide with a label so powerful in evoking fear that at first glance it “makes sense.: The “communist” scare led to an arms race and the existence of tens of thousands of nuclear warheads that if ever found in the hands of real “terrorists” will flatten the earth a thousand times over.

The Christian approach to peace and reconciliation is rooted in the remarkable - and from the perspective of worldly values – the utter foolishness of the cross. It is borne by a people who are not afraid to die. But not in the way a suicide bomber is not afraid to die.

Instead it honors the ethics of Jesus teaching us to “love our enemies” and even to “do good to those who hate you and bless those who abuse you.” (Luke 6:27-28). The suicide bomber is motivated out of revenge and perhaps the empty promise of celestial reward. But those who follow Jesus are willing to die at the expense of the self, trusting that staying in love with God is worth any cost, even the cost of one’s life.

I believe this unconditional love is the only true remedy for terrorism, for only this sort of power can repel fear. It is this love that provides the courage to stand up for the outcast and the forgotten. It is this love that is willing to face conflict and seek to work for the things that work toward peace. It is this love that I would suspect a Georgian Baptist raised in Sunday School would know something about. I wish I could look forward to few more Christian leaders who might attack terrorism without resorting to more acts of terror. But unfortunately, they all seem to be going the route of dead presidents.

What and who needs to be "Left Behind"

2006-12-14T15:19:00.000-08:00

There is a new Christian video game flying off the shelves at 10,000 Wal-Mart's, Targets, Circuit Cities and other outlets around the country. It is called “Left Behind: Eternal Forces” and follows the best-selling Left Behind books written by Christian ultra-conservatives, Tim LaHaye and Jerry Jenkins. These books teach what theologians have called a “pretribulation, dispensational, premillennial” eschatology meaning there will be a sudden “rapture” when true believers simultaneously leave earth followed by a seven year period of tribulation and upheaval before the return of Christ. This view borrows from a literal reading of Revelation 20 and was also popularized by the Scofield Reference Bible.

Interestingly, these books were more popular leading up to the recent calendar change from 1999 to 2000, than now when we are nearing the second half of the first decade of the 21^st Century. But that’s another point alongside the observation I have about individuals claiming to know the theme of this new millennium when it is hardly a few years old (Who knows what the citizens of 2099 or even better 2999 will say about this new Century and even Millennium when that time comes to look back on it – oh, that’s right, according to the Scofield crowd it won’t matter by then).

Which gets us back to the video game that seeks to prepare believers for these “last days” and allows participants to have the option of either converting or killing non-believers (of course, if you choose the second option you lose “spiritual points”). Bruce Prescott offers a compelling list of questions parents might want to be ready to answer if they choose to allow their children to play this game, which by the way is endorsed by Focus on the Family:

1) Why is this game set in New York City? Does God want me to shoot my fellow Americans?

2) Why are the forces of evil associated with the United Nations? Is God opposed to the United Nations?

3) Why do I have to kill everyone who will not convert to evangelical Christianity? Does God hate unbelievers?

4) Why do I hear "Praise the Lord" every time I kill someone? Does God want me to kill people?

5) Why do I lose "Spirit points" every time I come near a rock musician? Is rock music evil?

6) Does Jesus want me to love my enemies or blow them away?

7) Is Christianity a religion of peace or a religion of war?

8) What would Jesus do? Would he play this game?

I am naturally appalled by this game (and this “Christian” theology) and wonder what kind of reaction we might encounter from the group promoting this “entertainment” for children if a similar game was produced for ultra-conservative Muslims or “secular humanists” teaching their children that you must either convert or kill your opposition.

Instead of this crazy strategy, I have a much more humble suggestion on how we can eagerly await the return of Jesus into the world.

It is as simple, as immediate and as frequent as celebrating every time someone does something Christ-like in the world. When we forgive a wrong, when we offer compassion to the poor, when we pray and work for healing to the afflicted, when we offer kindness to the stranger, clothes to the naked, food and water to the hungry, companionship to the sick and those in prison, when we defend the cause of the powerless, when we reconcile with a neighbor, when we give of ourselves and our resources sacrificially and unconditionally, when we become the church; the living body of Christ in the world, when we do those things and many more Jesus has returned.

While we await the birth of Christ in the world, we also wait for his return. I thank God it is 2,000 years later and Jesus has not come in “shock and awe.” I am thankful that while LaHaye and Jenkins have written best selling fiction, it is, nevertheless, still fiction. I just hope those of us in the church would not be so gullible.

A world waits with us for the presence of Christ. It certainly won’t be found in a new video game that trains Christian children to become violent zealots. But it will be found in the faces of the broken, bruised and forgotten. If there were only a few Christians left to bear his image and not just his name to these needy ones. If so, they are exactly the kind of Christians I hope will be “Left Behind.” The rest, as far as I am concerned, are welcomed to be “raptured”. Now that would be a Christmas miracle!

A model for Behavior Mod

2006-10-06T17:03:00.003-07:00

Being a Christian is hard work, especially when so much of our moral fabric is tearing away. Efforts at defining and speaking about values are lost on a distracted and addicted public who are plugged in and tuned out. It's hard to be shocked when Amish children are the target of a madman; when political crusaders, who have built their career on a facade of defending morality, are the perpetrators of the very exploitive characteristics they criticize and when the US government desires permission to defend the legitimate use of torture. It’s enough to make my head swim.

Admittedly, I have resisted the popular Christian moralists whose hypocritical tendencies eventually come to light. And in this resistance, I wonder if I and those like me have totally lost the power of our moral discourse? In an effort to find a higher ethic of fairness and justice, have we become too silent in defense of the truly weak members of our society and world? Has our prescription of silence become more radical than the disease? To quote Glenn Hinson, "to cure deafness, as it were," have we "recommended the cessation of speech?"

In Matthew's gospel, at the end of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount we are told we are to be perfect or as some have properly interpreted, we are to be "whole" or "complete." It is a lofty standard and in comparison to all that is indefensible in the world, a seemingly impossible challenge. We are told to go the extra mile; to carry heavy burdens for others without expectation of reward; to love our enemies; to work for peace; to give without keeping score and to consider the tiny sins within ourselves before we notice the macro-abuses of our neighbor. I wonder why I should strive for such a world class Olympic record when it's enough of a challenge for me to merely be civil while parenting my own teenagers!

And yet, Jesus' teachings are more than suggestions. They are commands, beaconing me to realize somehow my own spiritual health is at risk as well as the overall health of the whole planet if I fail to abide by them. I am to take seriously this message of “death to self,” in the giving of life. In this struggle, I have benefited from a simple “hierarchy of behavior.” It provides me with a simple way to calibrate my moral life against a measurable standard with the hope that learning to jump small puddles trains me to reach greater heights. So here they are -

First: “Doing the wrong thing for the wrong reason.” This is behavior at its worst. There is little, if any redeemable value here. I hate because I have been hated. I injure because I have been injured. I abuse because I have been abused. It is the reverse of the limits of the lex talonis (an eye for an eye, etc.) It means I lash out to others because I too am a victim of evil. While this is becoming the fashionable explanation of high profile failure, it can hardly be considered an excuse. Maybe confessions can start here, but little moral progress is possible.

Next: “Doing the wrong thing for the right reason.” It is better known with the saying, “the path to hell is paved with good intentions.” This understanding provides us with a pass to those things we have done that have resulted in harm to others. It allows us to retain our inward self respect, knowing that if our motivation was pure, our actions really don’t matter. It also allows us to improperly judge others because we don’t give them the benefit of the doubt (what they intended), but look at what they actually did (reversing our measure of how we assess the self). Here we can condemn everyone but ourselves. No wonder it is a path to hell, when we are the only ones left in heaven.

Moving up another notch, we have: “Doing the right thing for the wrong reason.” I hate to say it, but if it wasn’t for this level of motivation, very little in the church would likely get done. But it should not come as any surprise that most good will is accomplished by way of guilt, obligation and the slim chance of public praise. We do the right thing because, well, it IS the right thing to do and mainly because there is the off chance that someone (including God) might actually notice us for it. It is very difficult to raise our motivation beyond any expectation for a special reward.

Finally, the high bar of moral behavior is: “Doing the right thing for the right reason.” This is the place our behavior can make us whole and complete. It is the banner over all that we do that can truly be called "good" because only here is the promise of a changed heart that can parallel a good action. At this level personal transformation, spiritual growth and emotional depth are possible. This is the area Jesus is addressing in his famous sermon. We consider our motivation in as much need of correction as our behavior. I wish I could say I was an expert in this path, but I am only now learning the way. It is the narrow path to growing in Christ and becoming like Christ. It questions any motivation but love and reminds us that if what we do isn’t leading us toward greater compassion to others, than we are only making a lot of noise (1 Corinthians 13: 5).

This final level is pole vaulting compared to merely jumping puddles. Perhaps the church is not only the place where we look up, but where we also encourage one another to jump and to jump high. It is not easy, but can something so rewarding be any less worthwhile?

Mis-ap-pope-pri-ation

2006-09-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

Most have become aware of the current controversy surrounding remarks made by Pope Benedict XVI when he quoted a Medieval text that described the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as "evil and inhuman." While some have noticed how this occurrence reveals, in comparison to Pope John Paul II, a weaker gift for diplomacy and might even suggest a further splintering within the Roman bureaucracy, I am more interested in the meaning of an apology.

Pope Benedict has been quoted as being sorry for "the reaction" his words have caused within the Muslim world. I truly wonder if this kind of apology passes the muster of an appropriate form of authentic repentance. Even while he says that he does not personally agree with the text he quoted (which begs the question; "why then did he use it?") and how he hopes this will help create a healthier dialogue between world religions, his apology is found lacking.

For example, how would we feel if every time someone apologized to us, they said, "I'm sorry for the way YOU have reacted," or better yet, what if we said to God, "I'm regret God how YOU have reacted to my behavior." Both seem to reveal a defiance that counters the very sentiment that warrants our saying sorry in the first place. This appeal is a sort of "have your cake and eat it too;" being able to say we are sorry without prompting any admission of wrong doing or offering any promise to insure a similar offense will not occur again.

That's why this stunted form of an apology hardly leads to reconciliation or the ways that work toward peace. In contrast, Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount often encourages his followers to go the "extra mile," to offer more than is required, to take the next step toward being peacemakers.

I fear we have lost the power of this kind of redeeming discourse in our civic conversations. We are so concerned with being right that we have forgotten how to be humble. It would seem that Christians would be those who might embody a better way; teaching through behavior and by the careful use of words how to keep the focus of religion on offering healing to a troubled world. But who I am to suggest to the pontiff what he should do? Maybe I should just say, "I am sorry for how you feel the world has misunderstood you?"

How much fun was Jesus?

2006-09-13T14:13:00.000-07:00

This past Sunday, one of the fastest growing churches in Lexington had a big festival day on the grounds of their church. They are our neighbors and a few of our church members brought me several of the promotional postcards they had sent to the community. There I first learned of their planned activities including: a petting zoo, hot air balloon rides, fireworks and baptisms. Of course, if you didn’t receive a postcard you might still have noticed the 2006 Pontiac they had suspended on a crane some 30 feet in the air as a door prize for those attending.

Right away, I should say that I don’t question their freedom to reach out. Their strategy has proven highly effective in reaching a younger adult population. In fact, from the little I know, they remind me of a youth group for grown-ups. Which makes me wonder? What explains this new reality on the landscape of American evangelical Protestantism?

I can remember that during the 80’s and most of the 90’s, many large churches were built around “big issues.” “Abortion, homosexuality, Biblical inerrancy, prayer in public schools,” and “taking America back from the secular humanists” dominated the discourse. Those I knew in the Christian community who attended such churches were very certain of the “rightness” of their convictions. They were crusaders in the public square seeking converts to their interpretation of the times.

Now I wonder if the pendulum in American evangelical Protestantism has swung in the opposite direction. After all, these “moral” issues in politics and society were seeking to be remedied by an energized church prior to the 21^st Century. Now (with help from 80’s superstar Cyndi Lauper); “Do Christians JUST want to have fun?” The younger crowd is not interested in being moral crusaders because it means they also have to be smug and superior. They are attracted to a more non-judgmental style that is more open and free.

No doubt, the rationale for this newer approach highlights the unconventional style of Jesus who changed water into wine, was accused of hanging out with the wrong sort; all who drank and ate too much and continually thumbed his nose at social and purity boundaries of first-century Palestine. In contrast to the rigid moralism of his day, Jesus was a “fun guy” indeed.

But we don’t live in a society like the historical Jesus. Instead, we are saturated with a pleasure-dominated culture that thrives on entertainment and selfish interests. I truly wonder (and ask myself as a Christian minister), if Jesus walked the streets of this land would he look more like a prophet or a party animal?

The fine line I am hoping to ride into the new millennium is a sort of confident humility that is willing to be more accessible and approachable while maintaining a strong advocacy for those who are oppressed, marginalized and forgotten. The danger I notice in the evangelical community is how easily it bows down to the powerful. The first surrendering seeks the protection of the establishment and the second “selling the soul” favors our desire to be entertained. Neither appears authentically Christian.

As American Christians, we should be aware of how quickly we can become blinded by our own power. We can assume we are superior and never question our methods. We can be so consumed by our riches and distracted by our selfish pursuits that we never really care. Meanwhile, a world full of war, hunger, AIDS and injustice looks over the waters to the most powerful nation ever known and wonders, “What does it mean that so many of these fellow pilgrims proudly consider themselves Christian?”

I’m not against having fun. I just hope for more. I am certain that Jesus asks far more of me. Maybe some day we can see the church as a fun place to be concerned about someone other than ourselves; where we give away a car to someone who least expects it, but needs it, where we laugh all the way to the bank to withdraw some money for the poor, where we fall down with hilarious fits of pleasure that God could do something really good (and truly world changing) with the likes of us. And who knows? Maybe the “church of the carnival” will arrive there before me. If so, that’s a joke I’ll be sure to share.

Interfaith Cooperation

2006-09-07T05:14:00.000-07:00

In my work with the interfaith community, I have noticed a distinctive characteristic that is necessary for effective collaboration. In fact, I have often found greater affinity for those who exhibit this trait (regardless of their religious sentiments) than those who share my particular Christian background. This characteristic (or maybe skill) is the capacity to transcend one's particular religious (even non-religious) tradition. It plays itself out in the following ways:

An ability to be self-critical - These individuals are able to discern and articulate the weaknesses within their own tradition and are not ashamed to discuss them.
An ability to affirm the legitimacy of another perspective-This is not the same as agreement or endorsement. It does appreciate and recognize how a different tradition makes sense for those who follow it and a willingness to affirm and protect the rights of others to practice religion as they choose.
An ability to listen before speaking - I've noticed that those who are not in a hurry to express their deeply felt commitments are usually (and strangely) more confident and humble in the promotion of their ideas.
An ability to always be a learner - Even though these "transcenders," seem to have a very broad and comprehensive knowledge of their faith and others, they are always willing to learn something new and are open to the pursuit of truth even if it means adaptation or change.
An ability to be gentle, kind, compassionate, generous and encouraging - Isn't this the hopeful outcome of all religious disciplines?

I can only hope that I able to transcend my tradition as well.

God's Table - A Communion Meditation

2006-09-05T19:03:00.000-07:00

More is here than bread and wine. At this communion table we discover a living drama of death and hope; of suffering and comfort, of mystery and salvation.

Here we talk about the suffering body of our Lord who took break and broke it saying his own personal body would also become broken. At this table we remember the Lord taking a single cup and proclaiming his blood would be spilled in the hope of bringing us all together into a wider covenant, all drinking from this one cup.

Over the centuries, Christians have written about this table. By our words and witness we speak of things concerning the body of Christ. While Christ-followers have held different perspectives and unique emphasis, all have agreed. At this table we have touched the tangible grace of God.

On this flat surface, we lay down the son who suffered; now limp and damaged, murdered by fear and power, the result of even our own personal flaws and failures. From his sacred head to his pierced feet, this expression of God’s love was found with a form and function we could understand, yet became mangled like a piece of sausage. Our ugly and shameful vulgarity shouts our assault upon the persistent goodness of God, a goodness the crucified one maintained even to his final breath.

He is not alone on this table. There are others with him. The tortured and executed Christ encompasses all who have suffered and who will ever suffer. This table is the make shift stretcher for the child whose once perfect body has been marred by war. It is the hospital gurney carrying the bloodied and battered victim from some recent trauma. It is the solemn casket holding the vacant shell of a person dearly loved and sorely missed.

Here we find a home for every tear ever shed, a haven for every heart ever broken, and a tender respite for every person ever shattered. At this table, we are invited to see within and through these images to the very presence of a God still at work within the devastation of the creation we have dishonored and alongside the human family, all made in the divine image that we have wounded.

At this table, God holds the son and welcomes the sinner. The son gave it all in love. All who honor him may be strengthen by his example. In his life and death, he teaches us how to keep faith in a world gone wrong, how to practice love in a world full of oppression and violence, how to never lose hope in a world appearing lost and condemned.

Here we are held by these divine hands. At this table, the one who began our lives,with loving patience, picks them back up mixing our brokenness with the son’s; giving us a blood transfusion, a heart transplant, a new spirit, a new future, a change from the inside out, a promise so permanent that even darkness and death cannot harm it. Here we are being trained to be the church, the still working body of Christ in the world.

Yes, there is more here than bread and wine at this table. It is nothing short of the presence of Christ, the power of God, the renewed dream of the creation’s first wish. Thanks be to God. Thanks be to the Christ. Thanks be to the Spirit, Amen.

The Saintly Sisterhood

2006-08-23T14:30:00.000-07:00

An 81 year old woman has been asked to stop teaching Sunday School at an American Baptist church in upstate New York where she has been a member for nearly 60 years and has taught Sunday School for 54 years, reports CNN and other major news outlets this past Monday. The reason cited by the Pastor and the Deacons concerns their interpretation of 1 Timothy which states that a woman should not have authority over a man. This is also the principle text used by the new Southern Baptists who have approved in the Baptist Faith and Message (2000) that women should not be pastors. It was because of such actions (and others) the church I currently serve left the SBC.

Back then there was little outcry from more moderate Baptists, who while verbally endorsing women serving as Senior Pastors, have nevertheless been reluctant to hire them to do so. But even a soft-hearted conservative may question the validity of taking on a senior woman lay leader in the church. It sounds a little like being against; “Mom, apple pie and Chevrolet.” I suspect that down deep most men in ecclesial authority (both today and in the history of the church) know that women are better pastors, preachers and prophets. But what are we really afraid of?

Baptist Ethics reports that the woman, Mary Lambert was even chair of the Search Committee that called this Pastor Tim LeBouf, who led the movement to oust her. It seemed the church has tripled in size under his leadership over the past two years growing from just under 40 to over 150 at weekly worship service. Along with Mary Lambert, several older Deacons and long time members of the church have also been dismissed from leadership positions in the church. Church growth can become a mixed blessing, especially when a pastor “changes stripes” while courting success (see the article in Baptist Ethics).

This all occurs when the oldest living Christian I know turns 104 this coming Monday, August 28. Her name is Ida Lee Craig and she finally left her beloved home in Midway after the terrible ice storm of 2003. Prior to that event, we celebrated her 100^th birthday on her front porch when the local Firemen with sirens blaring, jokingly delivered her birthday cake in case the vast amount of candles proved to be hazardous.

In preparation, she was invited to tell us how she would like to celebrate her 100^th birthday. She told me she wanted to dance, even though a few more pious members of the community suggested she should spend time thanking God for her long life with a Bible study and prayer. She asked me, her pastor at the time, what I thought. I said I would be glad to dance with her. So with a band at the Presbyterian Church across the street and a great crowd from the town and church, Ida Lee sat on her front porch welcoming the smiling faces, blowing out her candles and dancing. I wonder what the misogynistic Pastor from New York would think about that.

Not long ago I attended a seminar on life insurance and retirement planning. I learned that by 2050, there will be over 750,000 centenarians living in America. If I’m around, I’ll be 91 and if I am able and believers are willing, maybe by then we will have a great many women serving churches as Senior Pastors. They certainly would be a tribute to the strong spirit of Ida Lee Craig and in keeping with our work with the Baptist Seminary of Kentucky that trains men AND women called of God. Together, we participate in the great dance of life and love with God and with equality between one another. Now pass me some more cake while I still have my teeth!

One of God's Very Own

2006-08-10T02:47:00.000-07:00

During Vacation Bible School, one of the visiting parents was asking an older church member setting up the snack supper, details about the church. The parent mentioned that she had been raised a “strict Southern Baptist,” but was now seeking answers for herself and her family. While addressing her list of the “hot topics,” the parent asked about our church’s stand on the issue of homosexuality.

Our wise member offered a response that is one of the best I’ve ever heard. Even with 7 years of advanced theological training I could not have thought of a better answer. This wonderful lady of our church graciously pointed to one of the woman’s children and said, “If your son grew up and told you he was a homosexual, would you still love him?” “Of course,” the woman replied. “Well that’s the same way we feel around here.”

Before God, we are all equal. Leaving one to wonder why the church draws limits around God’s love? When we remove sterile abstraction from our moral discussions and allow ourselves the empathy possible within the heart of a loving parent, then we draw closer to the heart of God. Yes, the Bible draws distinctions on behavior including the bigots, gossips and swindlers. There are plenty of texts that speak to the exploitation of the poor and the problems of promiscuous and adulterous behavior. But if you listen to the rhetoric from most in the church, everyone seems to get a pass but the homosexual. We are more likely to have sex offenders in our congregation than an homosexual who is seeking to live with integrity and quality in a monogamous committed relationship.

This is where I see this issue to be one of prejudice: 1.) The moral instruction of the Bible is handled unevenly. 2.) Most scientific studies are showing that homosexual orientation is one of nature over nurture. 3.) There are clear and numerous examples of homosexuals who are moral, responsible citizens of our community. 4.) The emotional reaction of the judging and condemning community who are irrationally threatened by their very existence. Yet, if they were one of our own we would feel differently. Most certainly, they are one of God's very own. May we not be so quick to divide the human family.

Christian Spiritual Formation

2006-06-28T06:12:00.000-07:00

Rabbi Jesus offers us a commanding vision when he highlights two principles within the rich faith of the Hebrews and places them next to one another in a triadic relational formula. His genius takes the Shema found to Deuteronomy 6:4 and recited by faithful Jews at least daily with the instruction to love the Lord our God with all of ones heart, soul and might. and joins it with the instruction found in Leviticus 19:18b to love our neighbor as we love ourselves.

By binding these two verses of the law code together, Jesus teaches us that a relationship with God is not exclusively vertical. To truly love God is to love all that God loves. The nature of Christianity is symbolized with a cross to remember our primary love for God is always balanced with the horizontal love we offer one another while being met at the intersection with how we also choose to love and care for the self. I take that to mean we cannot truly love God and others unless we are also caring for our souls with nurture, insight, and growth.

The care and development of our soul in the image of Christ by loving God and loving others is what I would call Christian Spiritual Formation. As Richard Rohr says, "The great commandment is not, 'follow the rules.' It is, 'be in love.'"

Just Jesus

2006-06-09T05:48:00.000-07:00

I like the simplicity of the name of "Jesus." Yes, it has been elongated in the mouth of the revivalist with "JA-EEEEE-ZE-US," and profaned in the mouth of commoner with "GEEEE-WIZZ" Its universality is demonstrated as a favorite name among Latinos and its appearance on the cover of magazines always boost sales. In the church it has been adorned with the names: CHRIST, LORD, REDEEMER, SAVIOR, SHEPHERD. all while singing what a mighty FRIEND we have in him.

Yet, I seek a return to a more basic, even ordinary experience. Like Schweitzer's Quest for the Historical Jesus, Yancey's The Jesus I Never Knew and Borg's Meeting Jesus Again for the First Time, I hunger for an encounter that is stripped bare of all the complicated layers of history and opinion around this extraordinary personality. The simple name of "Jesus" invites me to this immediate, one on one experience.

When disappointed, even disgusted by the statements of fellow Christians; when Christianity becomes associated with bias, bigotry and sanctimonious self righteousness; when those standing up for faith gain power and oppress the weak; when love is manipulated as a badge of superiority; when Christians are anything but Christ-like; when I feel tempted to leave this brand of religion - I can't get away from Jesus.

Only Jesus keeps me a Christian. There is no other one whom I have found to be more human. I can believe in the God he reveals. I can hope in the message he has proclaimed. Even 2,000 year later, I am still trying to catch up to him.

Waiting for change

2006-05-24T12:08:00.000-07:00

"We are the ones we have been looking for." While I have forgotten where I first heard this quote, it is mildly reminiscent of Gandhi’'s better known, "Be the change you want to see in the world." Both quotes relate to our need to take initiative. Our hunger for change always begins with a self-analysis. Alongside the question; "“what can be done" must come the question; "“what can I do?"” So often, someone observes a problem in the world and complains about it. But from a spiritual perspective, insights are given to inspire us toward change, not merely to whine about "how no one is doing anything about it." Jesus said his disciples would do greater things than he himself had done. This seems impossible, so many never try. Many fail the first step of active faith by not believing in themselves.

When we feel something needs to be done and wonder why no one is doing it, it's time the voice of the Spirit calling us to action. Awareness begins the process for change. But it is only a first step. More is required for the journey. Often believers stop short of action and are satisfied with mere insight. Or they wait for someone else to come and tell them what to do. Without any personal risk or involvement, there is no real advancement. Knowing the answer and not acting upon that information in more that being irresponsible. At best, it is childish. At worse, it is a denial of true faith. Unless we hear, understand and respond to a call to action, we seal our fate to live in an unchanged world.

Thank you my Muslim friend

2006-05-17T12:11:00.000-07:00

An interesting question was offered by one of my Muslim friends to the members of the Interfaith Alliance of the Bluegrass at our monthly meeting this morning. She wanted to know if there was a consistent statement being made by the Christian community regarding the release of The Da Vinci Code and its view of Jesus. A few predicted responses were offered around the table. Most know its a work of fiction, said one. Our Catholic member reminded us that even as an act of fiction, The Da Vinci Code builds some of its argument on selected scriptures, historical artifacts and famous locations. He feared, even as an act of fiction it could lead astray many who were poorly informed.

What intrigued and nearly overwhelmed me was her reason for asking. Her curiosity about reaction from the Christian church was important because this was a hot topic in her American Muslim community especially in light of the defamation of the prophet Mohammed in a cartoon that set off world wide protests so violently that many lost their lives. In fact, she heard of a group of Canadian Muslims who have planned protests of the movie because of its portrayal, in their view, of prophet Jesus who is revered in the Quran.

She was not advocating such action but wondered if the Interfaith Alliance, charged with the fair and equitable defense of all faiths should make some kind of response in support of Christians. I was deeply touched by her sensitivity and concern to the fair representation of my faith.

Which leads me to the need for Christians especially, but really members of all faiths to develop a thicker skin. As the dominant religion in America, we who are Christians gain creditability when we suffer for our convictions with grace and civility rather than demanding any fair treatment. I applaud any critique to my deeply held convictions, even those of a fictional nature. Only in sincere challenge do I gain any growth. Yes, there are gross exaggerations in The Da Vince Code. But there are also some legitimate points worth considering.

What makes the church is not our avoidance of conflict, but our handling of conflict. Jesus assured us, in this world you will have trouble. Its how we face the trouble that determines our witness. When a book or a movie or even a scientific theory easily threatens us, we are not showing the world our faith but only our fear.

Interfaith Alliance Statement on 10 Commandments Display

2006-05-17T11:10:00.000-07:00

Recently the Lexington City Council was given a set of "historical documents" including the 10 Commandments to post on city property. This effort was a "gift" from a group called "Body of Christ Ministries." Obviously, for those paying attention this is a Trojan horse ploy to circumvent the First Admendment by classifying the 10 Commandments as something other than a religious document in order to seek their civic endorsement. Of course, one wonders why a group of elected city officials should decide what is historical and what is religious. More importantly, once we elevate the "historical" significance of the 10 Commandments what is next? By extension, shouldn't they be more than just a note of history but a substantial influence in the formulation of our laws. Why then, can you violate at least 7 of the commandments and not be penalized by force of law? Such is the sticky nature of mixing too much religion with politics and why a different and more complex approach must be advocated as given by the following statement written and approved by The Interfaith Alliance of the Bluegrass:

Mayor Teresa Isaac

Lexington Fayette Urban County Council

Dear Mayor Isaac and Council Members:

Like many in Fayette County, we were surprised to read the recent story regarding the proposed “gift” to the city of “historical documents,” including the Ten Commandments, intended for display on public property. It is our obligation as citizens, as well as our responsibility as leaders and members of various faith communities, to remind you of the importance of maintaining the neutrality of government in regard to matters of religion.

“Historical documents” shared by all our citizens are appropriate for display in public spaces. The display of religious documents is not appropriate for public spaces as it might imply a government endorsement of a particular religious tradition. The display of such religious documents is appropriate for houses of worship and other private spaces at their owners’ discretion.

Our nation’s founders knew from hard experience the importance of a healthy separation of “church and state.” Moreover, our nation’s history has demonstrated that government is more open and religion more vital when that separation is maintained.

As you consider receiving and displaying these documents, remember that you represent all the citizens of this great city, and that among those citizens are persons of many different faiths, all of which are essential to our nation’s past and present. We strongly urge you to reject any “gift” that would undermine our cherished freedom of religion and the separation of church and state upon which our freedom depends.

Respectfully,

Rev. Michael L. Ward, President

The Interfaith Alliance of the Bluegrass

Also signed by:

Dr. Greg Earwood, Baptist Seminary of Kentucky

Rev. Mark Johnson, Central Baptist Church

Holly Shipley, Faith Lutheran Church

Deacon Mark Stauffer, Catholic Diocese of Lexington

Jenny Sutton-Amr, Islamic Society of Central Kentucky

Richard M. Renfro, Humanist Forum of Central Kentucky

Rabbi Marc Kline, Temple Adath Israel & LFUCG Human Rights Commission

Dr. Lisa Davison, Lexington Theological Seminary

Lance Brunner, Lexington Shambhala-Buddhist Meditation Center

Richard Mitchell, Lexington Friends Meeting (Quakers)

Rev. William B. Kincaid, III, Woodland Christian Church

Avinash Sathaye, Bharatiya Temple and Cultural Center (Hindu Community)

Rev. Gerard Howell, Baptist

Endorsed by the Board of Directors of The Interfaith Alliance of the Bluegrass, May 17, 2006.

May wisdom guide all our intentions as well meaning as they may be.

United 93

2006-05-17T05:02:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I saw United 93, the mildly controversial movie about the ill-fated terrorist attack on the U.S. Capital on that terrible day when 3 other hijacked planes successfully hit their intended targets. The early conventional wisdom believed the movie was released too early while emotions were still too raw and was a ploy to profit from the misfortunes of others. After it premiered, critics applauded its fair and accurate treatment of a day that changed America. This movie was a riveting behind the scenes account of our living history and a tribute to the courageous character of a handful of Americans when faced with an unbelievable and frightening challenge.

After the movie was over there was a stunned silence from most in the theater. A few sobs could be heard in the darkness until one person began wailing uncontrollably.I remember feeling extremely frustrated and angry. How could this have happened? How could we have been so woefully unprepared? How could these fellow citizens have lost their lives so tragically?

September 11 was a day we were shaken to our core and left questioning many of our treasured assumptions about the scope of freedom. We realized that we could not be isolated from the problems in the larger world. We were not exempt from the absolute and random senselessness of terror from a foreign threat. The scope and success of this plot convinced middle America that no one was safe. All it took was being in the wrong place at the wrong time. But now, in the span of a typical college career (for those on the five year plan), I wonder if we have fallen back into another false sense of security? Do we feel we have averted this threat from ever happening again? Are we any better prepared if it did?

The movie provided a jolt back into those shocking days when we woke from our slumber . As I left the serene setting of the plush Cinemas, I realized, in a very small way, I was experiencing what citizens of Baghdad, Tel Aviv and Dahab face in real time with far more regularly. I appreciated again how privileged I am to live in relative peace. My virtual experience with terrorism produced real emotions that could hardly compare to the bona fide feelings of rage, anger, revenge and fear that will occur when terrorism hits my street and kills a member of my family.

The movie was helpful for me as a harsh lesson in both the challenge and the calling for all of us who are called Christians to transcend sectarian divisions. When faced with evil, do I lash out in kind or do I reach out with compassion to any who hurt in the world. Violence will always produce more violence or as Jesus as said, those who live by the sword, die by the sword. I wonder if our nations soul has become any more compassionate; any more forgiving; any wiser since those terrible days of September 11, 2001? Have we graduated at all or are we just fifth year freshmen?

We can retreat to live in the protected isolation of our affluence. We can hope against hope that we have conquered these threats to our prosperity and security. We can numb ourselves through pleasure and entertainment. We can allow others to fight this battle for us, those who are usually the poorest and most desperate. Yet, to me this is a more vulnerable place to live. Just like that crisp autumn morning five years ago, in a moments notice, our hopeful bubble is popped.

September 11 reminded us that life is precious and time is short. On September 12, 2001 and the few months that followed, we Americans reached out in unity with our fellow citizens. We were committed to work for the common good. We sought to develop our faith and mature the best that was within us. We determined to love our family more sincerely and straighten our paths toward better living. How easy it has been to go back to the comforts of old habits and empty promises. Maybe its better to exchange the idea, its too soon to remember with its too soon to forget.