Christmas was amazing this year! Heidi did an incredible job brining fun tradition into our home. The kids made tree ornaments. Heidi and Izak made hard candy and cookies. I learned that when making cookies with Izak, you don't want to hear "There..." and see sprinkles of salt next to the mixer of dough. What a great time.
I also loved that we did different kinds of gifts for most family this year. We gave special gifts to World Vision - things like clean water for a year for a whole school, lama, nets for protection against malaria...things that can save lives for people in other parts of the world. Thanks, family, for going along with us.
A special Christmas treat was having Aunt Lo with us. She stayed in Chi-town for this holiday and spend Christmas Eve with us and then the next few days. I loved having her here to share the special day.
Day after Christmas, I got my gift - a drive to Buffalo to hang with my guys, Rick and Larry. It was a quick trip, but it went well and my soul was nourished by the time spent with these men. I came back late Wednesday night. I love the long drive - great time with God alone...
Now, we are about to head into the final day of 2006. I'll reflect more on the year in another post. What a year...!
Saturday is coming to a close...good night.
M@
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Friday, December 22, 2006
Happy Holidays?
Christmas is a great season. I love it for so many reasons.
One of the dynamics of this season, one that seems to be growing every year, is the offence taken at being greeted by "Happy Holidays" at stores. I read blogs and hear Christians talking about how important it is to identify this season as Christmas.
But Christmas isn't the only holiday being celebrated by people this time of year. Some people have very meaningful celebrations of Hanuka or Kwanza. I've even gone to a Winter Solestice party!
Part of respecting other people is to invite them to enjoy whatever holiday they are celebrating, not just if it's ours. Though not a "biblical" holiday (in the sene that it's originated in the Bible), it does reflect a reality that is a the core of God's redemptive plan in the world - the celebration of Christ's birth. I'm all about that and am so thankful for the gift of life we have in Him.
But wishing someone a happy Hanuka doesn't take away my joy in Christmas. Sending some friends a Happy Kwanza card didn't in the least steal my joy or thankfulness.
The other day, I was in the store and heard the cashier saying the requisite, "Happy Holidays." to her customers. That's cool...
As I approached and was giving her my money, I stopped and asked, "What holiday to celebrate this time of year?" She stopped and looked at me a little strange...and then smiled broadly. "Hanuka...and Christmas!"
I simply said, "Then Happy Hanuka and Merry Christmas!"
It wasn't that big of a deal. But it was brief encounte where I chose to value her instead of myself.
And that's what ordinary attempts are all about.
What "ordinary attempts" at loving people have you tried lately? Share with us!
Peace...and Merry Christmas!
Matt
One of the dynamics of this season, one that seems to be growing every year, is the offence taken at being greeted by "Happy Holidays" at stores. I read blogs and hear Christians talking about how important it is to identify this season as Christmas.
But Christmas isn't the only holiday being celebrated by people this time of year. Some people have very meaningful celebrations of Hanuka or Kwanza. I've even gone to a Winter Solestice party!
Part of respecting other people is to invite them to enjoy whatever holiday they are celebrating, not just if it's ours. Though not a "biblical" holiday (in the sene that it's originated in the Bible), it does reflect a reality that is a the core of God's redemptive plan in the world - the celebration of Christ's birth. I'm all about that and am so thankful for the gift of life we have in Him.
But wishing someone a happy Hanuka doesn't take away my joy in Christmas. Sending some friends a Happy Kwanza card didn't in the least steal my joy or thankfulness.
The other day, I was in the store and heard the cashier saying the requisite, "Happy Holidays." to her customers. That's cool...
As I approached and was giving her my money, I stopped and asked, "What holiday to celebrate this time of year?" She stopped and looked at me a little strange...and then smiled broadly. "Hanuka...and Christmas!"
I simply said, "Then Happy Hanuka and Merry Christmas!"
It wasn't that big of a deal. But it was brief encounte where I chose to value her instead of myself.
And that's what ordinary attempts are all about.
What "ordinary attempts" at loving people have you tried lately? Share with us!
Peace...and Merry Christmas!
Matt
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
random thoughts...
It's been awhile since I've posted. That's partly because I've been doing a lot of writing and reflecting in other areas, so don't get to write here as often. So here are some random things to catch you up a bit...
- After the snow day, we took off for Bay City, MI to visit Heidi's family. Christmas celebration there is always a big deal. It's been several years since we've been there all together for it. So this year was special. The kids did great traveling...which helps Mom and Dad to better traveling, too;-)
- I had a couple weeks off from preaching. It was a nice break. Northwest-ers have been listening to my voice every Sunday since July...that's too long for them! Kevin stepped in and did a good job. I still worked, but was able to put my attention in other places.
- This is a pretty crazy week. Heidi oriented at a new hospital as a part of her agency resume. She's not able to expand her options, which will be nice. That was Monday. Tuesday was Elders meeting. Tonight, she's working. Thursday, I have a team meeting for Northwest. Friday night we're heading to the city with our Small Group to enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas in Chicago - this will be Heidi's and my first time in the city together. Saturday evening is the annual staff/elder Christmas dinner - a time to celebrate and remember together. Yup...that's a crazy week...
- As I mentioned, we're heading to the city Friday. I'm excited about this on many levels. Can't wait to be there with Heidi. Excited about sharing this season with this group that is so special to us. It's a huge part of making this area "home" for me.
- The kids are awesome! I loved being at home with them on Monday. I'm home every Monday, but this week was special because it was just me. Sure, I missed Heidi, but I loved being able to give her that time away (to work, of course) and to have that time with the kids. I generally don't get whole days alone with them...I like my kids. And I am so thankful for Heidi, who is with them all day most days of the week...she's an incredible mother and wife...thanks, Babe.
- I won the first round of playoffs in one of my fantasy football leagues. This week will be tougher. And in the other league, I went into the playoffs in first place! The playoff game this week should work out fine...then next week will be a stretch. It's been fun...mostly because I win most of the games.
Well, that's the news from Lake Villa these days.
Merry Christmas!
M@
- After the snow day, we took off for Bay City, MI to visit Heidi's family. Christmas celebration there is always a big deal. It's been several years since we've been there all together for it. So this year was special. The kids did great traveling...which helps Mom and Dad to better traveling, too;-)
- I had a couple weeks off from preaching. It was a nice break. Northwest-ers have been listening to my voice every Sunday since July...that's too long for them! Kevin stepped in and did a good job. I still worked, but was able to put my attention in other places.
- This is a pretty crazy week. Heidi oriented at a new hospital as a part of her agency resume. She's not able to expand her options, which will be nice. That was Monday. Tuesday was Elders meeting. Tonight, she's working. Thursday, I have a team meeting for Northwest. Friday night we're heading to the city with our Small Group to enjoy the sights and sounds of Christmas in Chicago - this will be Heidi's and my first time in the city together. Saturday evening is the annual staff/elder Christmas dinner - a time to celebrate and remember together. Yup...that's a crazy week...
- As I mentioned, we're heading to the city Friday. I'm excited about this on many levels. Can't wait to be there with Heidi. Excited about sharing this season with this group that is so special to us. It's a huge part of making this area "home" for me.
- The kids are awesome! I loved being at home with them on Monday. I'm home every Monday, but this week was special because it was just me. Sure, I missed Heidi, but I loved being able to give her that time away (to work, of course) and to have that time with the kids. I generally don't get whole days alone with them...I like my kids. And I am so thankful for Heidi, who is with them all day most days of the week...she's an incredible mother and wife...thanks, Babe.
- I won the first round of playoffs in one of my fantasy football leagues. This week will be tougher. And in the other league, I went into the playoffs in first place! The playoff game this week should work out fine...then next week will be a stretch. It's been fun...mostly because I win most of the games.
Well, that's the news from Lake Villa these days.
Merry Christmas!
M@
Friday, December 01, 2006
snow day...
Since moving to Chicago-land, I've got to say that I'm pretty unimpressed with the snowfall. If I'm going to be cold (which winter is), then I'd prefer to have a bunch of the white stuff. Call me sick, but I like it.
And they talk a good snow game around here...but really haven't delivered much.
Until today. The forcasters called for a huge storm. I was skeptical.
So when I woke up to a healthy dose of snow, I was pleasantly surprised.
I waited out the storm at home, hanging with Heidi and the kids. I shoveled a few times to keep ahead of the snow (it was heavy so I wanted to lift as little at a time as possible). Izak even helped me shovel a bit.
I was, admittedly a little stir-crazy...I had plans in my head that were being put on hold. As much as I love my family, I was also ready and raring to go. So I had to put my ideas on hold for a few hours...not the end of the world. And instead, I got to watch my kids play outside in the snow.
"Daddy, is it winter now?"
"Yup, buddy, it's officially winter. Have fun!"
And he did...so did I.
We're heading to Michigan tomorrow to spend a couple days celebrating Christmas with Heidi's family. Should be a great time to connect with them and change the scenery a bit.
peace,
M@
And they talk a good snow game around here...but really haven't delivered much.
Until today. The forcasters called for a huge storm. I was skeptical.
So when I woke up to a healthy dose of snow, I was pleasantly surprised.
I waited out the storm at home, hanging with Heidi and the kids. I shoveled a few times to keep ahead of the snow (it was heavy so I wanted to lift as little at a time as possible). Izak even helped me shovel a bit.
I was, admittedly a little stir-crazy...I had plans in my head that were being put on hold. As much as I love my family, I was also ready and raring to go. So I had to put my ideas on hold for a few hours...not the end of the world. And instead, I got to watch my kids play outside in the snow.
"Daddy, is it winter now?"
"Yup, buddy, it's officially winter. Have fun!"
And he did...so did I.
We're heading to Michigan tomorrow to spend a couple days celebrating Christmas with Heidi's family. Should be a great time to connect with them and change the scenery a bit.
peace,
M@
snow day...
Since moving to Chicago-land, I've got to say that I'm pretty unimpressed with the snowfall. If I'm going to be cold (which winter is), then I'd prefer to have a bunch of the white stuff. Call me sick, but I like it.
And they talk a good snow game around here...but really haven't delivered much.
Until today. The forcasters called for a huge storm. I was skeptical.
So when I woke up to a healthy dose of snow, I was pleasantly surprised.
I waited out the storm at home, hanging with Heidi and the kids. I shoveled a few times to keep ahead of the snow (it was heavy so I wanted to lift as little at a time as possible). Izak even helped me shovel a bit.
I was, admittedly a little stir-crazy...I had plans in my head that were being put on hold. As much as I love my family, I was also ready and raring to go. So I had to put my ideas on hold for a few hours...not the end of the world. And instead, I got to watch my kids play outside in the snow.
"Daddy, is it winter now?"
"Yup, buddy, it's officially winter. Have fun!"
And he did...so did I.
We're heading to Michigan tomorrow to spend a couple days celebrating Christmas with Heidi's family. Should be a great time to connect with them and change the scenery a bit.
peace,
M@
And they talk a good snow game around here...but really haven't delivered much.
Until today. The forcasters called for a huge storm. I was skeptical.
So when I woke up to a healthy dose of snow, I was pleasantly surprised.
I waited out the storm at home, hanging with Heidi and the kids. I shoveled a few times to keep ahead of the snow (it was heavy so I wanted to lift as little at a time as possible). Izak even helped me shovel a bit.
I was, admittedly a little stir-crazy...I had plans in my head that were being put on hold. As much as I love my family, I was also ready and raring to go. So I had to put my ideas on hold for a few hours...not the end of the world. And instead, I got to watch my kids play outside in the snow.
"Daddy, is it winter now?"
"Yup, buddy, it's officially winter. Have fun!"
And he did...so did I.
We're heading to Michigan tomorrow to spend a couple days celebrating Christmas with Heidi's family. Should be a great time to connect with them and change the scenery a bit.
peace,
M@
snow day...
Since moving to Chicago-land, I've got to say that I'm pretty unimpressed with the snowfall. If I'm going to be cold (which winter is), then I'd prefer to have a bunch of the white stuff. Call me sick, but I like it.
And they talk a good snow game around here...but really haven't delivered much.
Until today. The forcasters called for a huge storm. I was skeptical.
So when I woke up to a healthy dose of snow, I was pleasantly surprised.
I waited out the storm at home, hanging with Heidi and the kids. I shoveled a few times to keep ahead of the snow (it was heavy so I wanted to lift as little at a time as possible). Izak even helped me shovel a bit.
I was, admittedly a little stir-crazy...I had plans in my head that were being put on hold. As much as I love my family, I was also ready and raring to go. So I had to put my ideas on hold for a few hours...not the end of the world. And instead, I got to watch my kids play outside in the snow.
"Daddy, is it winter now?"
"Yup, buddy, it's officially winter. Have fun!"
And he did...so did I.
We're heading to Michigan tomorrow to spend a couple days celebrating Christmas with Heidi's family. Should be a great time to connect with them and change the scenery a bit.
peace,
M@
And they talk a good snow game around here...but really haven't delivered much.
Until today. The forcasters called for a huge storm. I was skeptical.
So when I woke up to a healthy dose of snow, I was pleasantly surprised.
I waited out the storm at home, hanging with Heidi and the kids. I shoveled a few times to keep ahead of the snow (it was heavy so I wanted to lift as little at a time as possible). Izak even helped me shovel a bit.
I was, admittedly a little stir-crazy...I had plans in my head that were being put on hold. As much as I love my family, I was also ready and raring to go. So I had to put my ideas on hold for a few hours...not the end of the world. And instead, I got to watch my kids play outside in the snow.
"Daddy, is it winter now?"
"Yup, buddy, it's officially winter. Have fun!"
And he did...so did I.
We're heading to Michigan tomorrow to spend a couple days celebrating Christmas with Heidi's family. Should be a great time to connect with them and change the scenery a bit.
peace,
M@
Tuesday, November 28, 2006
change of pace...
For the next two weeks, I'm not teaching at the weekend worship gathering. This means my life can take on a different pace, since preparations aren't as urgent. It's been about 6 months since Northwest has had a break from hearing my voice break through their Sunday morning tranquility...they deserve a break!
I've spent a good deal of the past 5-6 days at home. I love being with my family. Granted, I'd go nuts if I were there as much as Heidi...God bless that woman...seriously...she deserves it. But I love being with them. I love that they get excited about me coming home and all want to give their goodbye kisses before I leave.
When the staff meets on Tuesday mornings, I often as, "Where are you seeing God lately?" It's fun to hear different stories and encounters. But this morning, my God-sighting was in my own life (it's not all that unsual...but just what seemed to be front and center for me today). I've struggled in some ways with "monkeys" - that's what Heidi and I call feelings of discouragement.
I'm not really even sure why I'm discouraged...some great stuff is happening at Northwest, I love what I do there, we're making some great friends. Oh, sure, I miss my friends from NY and there are always things that can be done better...but in general there isn't a good reason to have monkeys.
So as I prayed about it and sought God's input on the monkeys, He brought incredible peace....He even snuck a little joy in there without me even asking! As I wrote in my journal and prayed and read the Bible...the monkeys seemed to go away. What a gift. Thank you, God...
I'm hoping this change of pace will be a good time of refreshment for me. As you might think of me, whisper a little prayer to that effect.
Peace,
M@
I've spent a good deal of the past 5-6 days at home. I love being with my family. Granted, I'd go nuts if I were there as much as Heidi...God bless that woman...seriously...she deserves it. But I love being with them. I love that they get excited about me coming home and all want to give their goodbye kisses before I leave.
When the staff meets on Tuesday mornings, I often as, "Where are you seeing God lately?" It's fun to hear different stories and encounters. But this morning, my God-sighting was in my own life (it's not all that unsual...but just what seemed to be front and center for me today). I've struggled in some ways with "monkeys" - that's what Heidi and I call feelings of discouragement.
I'm not really even sure why I'm discouraged...some great stuff is happening at Northwest, I love what I do there, we're making some great friends. Oh, sure, I miss my friends from NY and there are always things that can be done better...but in general there isn't a good reason to have monkeys.
So as I prayed about it and sought God's input on the monkeys, He brought incredible peace....He even snuck a little joy in there without me even asking! As I wrote in my journal and prayed and read the Bible...the monkeys seemed to go away. What a gift. Thank you, God...
I'm hoping this change of pace will be a good time of refreshment for me. As you might think of me, whisper a little prayer to that effect.
Peace,
M@
Saturday, November 25, 2006
Thankgiving (plus 2 days)...
We had a great Thanksgiving Day! It was just the Furr 5 together. Heidi made an amazing meal for us. The kids enjoyed playing and eating special treats. We even had the chance to play at a park, the weather was so nice.
It's a good chance to stop and think about what I'm thankful for. Here are my thoughts on that...
- An amazing family. God uses my family in ways they may not even realize - He redeems dark and hidden places. My head gets so focused on work. Then it happens. Izak grabs my hand and says, "Daddy, come outside and play with me." Work. Play. Choose. My soul lives a little more each time I grab the football and run with my boy. My daughter offers a kiss in the middle of the day - yes, my baby...anything you want. And my youngest grabs my knees and threatens to pants me if I don't bend over and pay some attention his way. Yes...my family is a gift to me.
- I know I only talked about the kids above. That's because Heidi deserves her own line in my list of thanksgivings. She is an above-amazing wife. Her challenging accountability at just the right moment. Her carefully worded caution about this or that. Her wisdom. Her grace. Her hand grabbing mine when the "discouragement monkeys" come around. Yeah...beyond words. I'm thankful for my bride of 12+ years.
- I love my work. I was made for this. Even the hard days can be incredible. I have the honor of seeing God at work in a way that is unique. Oh, I could get caught up in the stuff that needs to be done, the reports written, this and that accomplished. It will come. But the joy is in the mystery of a gracious God who chooses to not forget His people, but pours out his love, grace, and joy. I see His hand in the reconciled friendship, in the freed addict, in the humble spirit. And seeing Him at work is a gift to me.
- I'm thankful for a home that is a palace compared with most of the world. I tire of the toilet that leaks and the uneven heat and A/C or the washer that's a bit too loud because it's in the kitchen. But come on...are you kidding me? No complaining allowed. It's dry. It's warm. It's cool. It's filled with laughter. My home is a gift. And so is the washer and drier...especially when one of the kids has the flu...like last night...yuck!
- I'm not sure why...I know I don't deserve them, but God has given me many friends. Seriously. There are more than a handful of people I could call at any moment of any day and pour out my heart. Most people don't have one. I have some here in Illinois. I have some in Buffalo, NY. I have some in New England and Minnesota and Michigan. My friends are a gift.
Yeah...God has given much. He has poured out his grace and mercy in my undeserving (I guess that's the point of grace, isn't it?) heart. I'm thankful for Jesus. I'm thankful that I'm not the man I would be without him. I'm thankful that he is rescuing me from my own selfishness and greed. I'm thankful that he redeems my bad decisions. And I'm thankful that He guides me into wisdom through His Spirit.
With a full heart...
M@
It's a good chance to stop and think about what I'm thankful for. Here are my thoughts on that...
- An amazing family. God uses my family in ways they may not even realize - He redeems dark and hidden places. My head gets so focused on work. Then it happens. Izak grabs my hand and says, "Daddy, come outside and play with me." Work. Play. Choose. My soul lives a little more each time I grab the football and run with my boy. My daughter offers a kiss in the middle of the day - yes, my baby...anything you want. And my youngest grabs my knees and threatens to pants me if I don't bend over and pay some attention his way. Yes...my family is a gift to me.
- I know I only talked about the kids above. That's because Heidi deserves her own line in my list of thanksgivings. She is an above-amazing wife. Her challenging accountability at just the right moment. Her carefully worded caution about this or that. Her wisdom. Her grace. Her hand grabbing mine when the "discouragement monkeys" come around. Yeah...beyond words. I'm thankful for my bride of 12+ years.
- I love my work. I was made for this. Even the hard days can be incredible. I have the honor of seeing God at work in a way that is unique. Oh, I could get caught up in the stuff that needs to be done, the reports written, this and that accomplished. It will come. But the joy is in the mystery of a gracious God who chooses to not forget His people, but pours out his love, grace, and joy. I see His hand in the reconciled friendship, in the freed addict, in the humble spirit. And seeing Him at work is a gift to me.
- I'm thankful for a home that is a palace compared with most of the world. I tire of the toilet that leaks and the uneven heat and A/C or the washer that's a bit too loud because it's in the kitchen. But come on...are you kidding me? No complaining allowed. It's dry. It's warm. It's cool. It's filled with laughter. My home is a gift. And so is the washer and drier...especially when one of the kids has the flu...like last night...yuck!
- I'm not sure why...I know I don't deserve them, but God has given me many friends. Seriously. There are more than a handful of people I could call at any moment of any day and pour out my heart. Most people don't have one. I have some here in Illinois. I have some in Buffalo, NY. I have some in New England and Minnesota and Michigan. My friends are a gift.
Yeah...God has given much. He has poured out his grace and mercy in my undeserving (I guess that's the point of grace, isn't it?) heart. I'm thankful for Jesus. I'm thankful that I'm not the man I would be without him. I'm thankful that he is rescuing me from my own selfishness and greed. I'm thankful that he redeems my bad decisions. And I'm thankful that He guides me into wisdom through His Spirit.
With a full heart...
M@
Saturday, November 18, 2006
My Beloved...
Today, Sunday, November 19, 2006, marks the 12th year that we have been married (and the 14th that we've been dating). It seems that the more time we spend together the harder it is to put into words the amazing gift Heidi is to me.
She is the gift of laughter. We enjoy laughing together. It breaks the tension sometimes. It re-energizes us when we're tired. We like to laugh.
She is the gift of freedom. With her, I learn who I am...and I have the freedome to be that man. There is no shame in her company...only love and grace.
She is the gift of friendship. I enjoy her company more than any other person on earth. If I could have dinner with only one person, it would be her - not Bill Bellisheck, not Tiger Woods, not the President...Heidi. I choose to spend as much time with her as possible.
She is the gift of love. It is a love that is true. It's kind. It's gentle. It's gracious. Forgiving. Strong. Good.
Heidi is a gift to me. I could never thank God enough for her. And I pray I get to spend a long life letting her know.
Happy Anniversary, my Beloved...
867
She is the gift of laughter. We enjoy laughing together. It breaks the tension sometimes. It re-energizes us when we're tired. We like to laugh.
She is the gift of freedom. With her, I learn who I am...and I have the freedome to be that man. There is no shame in her company...only love and grace.
She is the gift of friendship. I enjoy her company more than any other person on earth. If I could have dinner with only one person, it would be her - not Bill Bellisheck, not Tiger Woods, not the President...Heidi. I choose to spend as much time with her as possible.
She is the gift of love. It is a love that is true. It's kind. It's gentle. It's gracious. Forgiving. Strong. Good.
Heidi is a gift to me. I could never thank God enough for her. And I pray I get to spend a long life letting her know.
Happy Anniversary, my Beloved...
867
holiday season...
Really? Thanksgiving? Next week? You have to be kidding me! Then...that means...tomorrow...have to go to the store...tomorrow big day...come back for a post tomorrow...
Friday, November 10, 2006
football...
We're a football family. We're not hard core...not chest painting, can't really be glued to the tv with toddlers. But we enjoy watching football and Sundays we don't turn on Wiggles until football is done...it's football day.
Izak has picked up on that. He's asking every day now if it's football day. And he doesn't want to just watch it, either...he's all about playing it. And by playing it, he means carrying a football while I chase him and tackle him. And in his version of football, there's definately tickling.
Something tells me that Brian Urlacker isn't much into tickling when he sacks the QB...
Izak has picked up on that. He's asking every day now if it's football day. And he doesn't want to just watch it, either...he's all about playing it. And by playing it, he means carrying a football while I chase him and tackle him. And in his version of football, there's definately tickling.
Something tells me that Brian Urlacker isn't much into tickling when he sacks the QB...
Sunday, November 05, 2006
Ted Haggard
I've been watching as the events unfold around the secret life of Ted Haggard. I have some thoughts on it. But as I read this on the blog called Out of Ur, I thought these reflections are as good as could be written. Gordon MacDonald is a man who has lived in places that Ted and his family are about to travel. He speaks from a profound and person experience of failure and grace. Here's what he wrote:
The Haggard Truth: Gordon MacDonald on the lies all-too-easily believed
What are Christian leaders to make of the spectacularly painful experience of watching Ted Haggard this past week? The president of the National Association of Evangelicals and pastor of giga-church New Life Community in Colorado Springs, Colorado, gradually admitted to purchasing methamphetamines and the services of a male prostitute. We asked Leadership editor-at-large Gordon MacDonald to reflect on what we should learn from this episode.
It is difficult beyond description to watch Ted Haggard’s name and face dragged across the TV screen every hour on the news shows. But as my friend, Tony Campolo said in an interview last week, when we spend our lives seizing the microphone to speak to the world of our opinions and judgments, we should not surprised when the system redirects its spotlight to us, justly or unjustly, in our bad moments.
We are still in the process of learning what has actually transpired over the past many months on the secret side of Ted’s life. In just the last few hours the leadership of New Life Church has announced that he has been asked to resign. His ministry at New Life Church and as leader of the NAE is over.
I’ve spent more than a little time trying to understand how and why some men/women in all kinds of leadership get themselves into trouble whether the issues be moral, financial, or the abuse of power and ego. I am no stranger to failure and public humiliation. From those terrible moments of twenty years ago in my own life I have come to believe that there is a deeper person in many of us who is not unlike an assassin.
This deeper person (like a contentious board member) can be the source of attitudes and behaviors we normally stand against in our conscious being. But it seeks to destroy us and masses energies that—unrestrained—tempt us to do the very things we “believe against.” If you have been burned as deeply as I (and my loved ones) have, you never live a day without remembering that there is something within that, left unguarded, will go on the rampage. Wallace Hamilton once wrote, “Within each of us there is a herd of wild horses all wanting to run loose.”
It seems to me that when people become leaders of outsized organizations and movements, when they become famous and their opinions are constantly sought by the media, we ought to begin to become cautious. The very drive that propels some leaders toward extraordinary levels of achievement is a drive that often keeps expanding even after reasonable goals and objectives have been achieved. Like a river that breaks its levy, that drive often strays into areas of excitement and risk that can be dangerous and destructive. Sometimes the drive appears to be unstoppable. This seems to have been the experience of the Older Testament David and his wandering eyes, Uzziah in his boredom, and Solomon with his insatiable hunger for wealth, wives and horses. They seem to have been questing—addictively?—for more thrills or trying to meet deeper personal needs, and the normal ways that satisfy most people became inadequate for them.
When I see a leader who becomes stubborn and rigid, who becomes increasingly less compassionate toward his adversaries, increasingly tyrannical in his own organization, who rouses anger and arrogance in others, I wonder if he is not generating all of this heat because he is trying so hard to say “no” to something surging deep within his own soul. Are his words and deeds not so much directed against an enemy “out there” as they are against a much more cunning enemy within his own soul. More than once I have visited with pastors who have spent hours immersed in pornography and then gone on to preach their most “spirit-filled” sermons against immorality a day or two later. It’s a disconnect that boggles the rational mind.
No amount of accountability seems to be adequate to contain a person living with such inner conflict. Neither can it contain a person who needs continuous adrenalin highs to trump the highs of yesterday. Maybe this is one of the geniuses of Jesus: he knew when to stop, how to refuse the cocktail of privilege, fame and applause that distorts one’s ability to think wisely and to master self.
More than once we’ve seen the truth of a person’s life come out, not all at once, but in a series of disclosures, each an admission of further culpability which had been denied just a day or two before. Perhaps inability to tell the full truth is a sign that one is actually lying to himself and cannot face the full truth of the behavior in his own soul.
But then all sin begins with lies told to oneself. The cardinal lies of a failed leader? I give and give and give in this position; I deserve special privileges—perhaps even the privilege of living above the rules. Or, I have enough charm and enough smooth words that I can talk anything (even my innocence) into reality. Or, so much of my life is lived above the line of holiness that I can be excused this one little faux pas. Or, I have done so much for these people; now it’s their time to do something for me—like forgiving me and giving a second chance.
I am heart-broken for Ted Haggard and his wife and family. I cannot imagine the torture they are living through at this very moment. Toppled from national esteem and regard in a matter of hours, they must adjust to wondering who their real friends are now. They have to be asking how these events—known by the world—will affect their children. Mrs. Haggard will not be able to go the local WalMart without wondering who she may bump into when she turns into Aisle 3 (A reporter? A church member? A critic?). Both Haggards will face cameras every time they emerge from their home in the next few days until the media finds another person with whom to have its sport.
The travel, the connections, the interviews, the applause of the congregation, the organizational power, the perks and privileges, the honor: gone! The introit to people of position/power: gone! The opportunity to say an influential word each day into the lives of teachable younger people: gone! The certainty that God has anointed one for such a time as this: gone? And what will grow each day is the numbing realization of regret and loss. In time they will be approached by people who will say in one way or another, “I used to trust you, but what you’ve done has made me very angry….you’ve turned my son away from the gospel….I thought I knew you, but I guess I didn’t.” It will be a long time before either of the Haggards feel safe again. Suffering over this will last most of a lifetime even after some sort of restoration is rendered. How I wish this could all be lifted from them.
Perhaps there will come a day down the pathway when there will be some kind of return to influence. But right now it is—or should be—a long way in the distance.
Among my prayers is that the leadership of New Life Church will not assume that “restoration” means getting Ted back into the pulpit as soon as possible. The worst thing in the world would be to raise his hopes that just because he models a contrite spirit he can return to public life in the near future. He, for his own sake, must take a long time to work through the causative factors in this situation. He will not resolve whatever is wrong in his own soul by going back to work. He and his wife must set aside a long, long time to allow their personal relationship to heal. Forgiveness is a long healing, not a momentary one. And there are those five children. Thinking of them makes me want to weep. And then there are countless people in and beyond their church who must take a long time to figure out what all of this means. No, the worst things Ted’s friends and overseers can do is to try and bring him back from this prematurely. The best thing they can do is ask him to retreat into silence with those he loves the most and listen—to God, to trusted elders.
The statement issued by the NAE Executive Committee late Friday afternoon seems flat to me. It appears to have been written by savvy PR people who wanted to say all the nice and appropriate things which might mollify the media and cause no heartburn for the lawyers. The burden of the statement seems to be that the NAE is already on to the question of who the next leader will be. The fact is that, all too often, we have seen the President of NAE on the news and talk shows speaking as the leader of so-called 33 million evangelicals. I’m not sure that most of us were polled as to whether or not we wanted Ted Haggard (or anyone) speaking for us. I know that last time I felt safe about anyone speaking for evangelicals as a whole was when Billy Graham talked on our behalf. But, as of late, an illusion was permitted to grow: that the NAE was a well-organized, highly networked movement of American evangelicals headed by Ted Haggard who, when he spoke, spoke for all of us. Now, unfortunately, that voice has misspoken, and our movement has to live with the consequences.
I have a fairly poor batting average when it comes to predicting the future. But my own sense is that the NAE (as we know it) will probably not recover from this awful moment. Should it? Leaders of various NAE constituencies are likely to believe that their fortunes are better served by new and fresher alliances.
Ever since the beginning of the Bush administration, I have worried over the tendency of certain Evangelical personalities to go public every time they visited the White House or had a phone conference with an administration official. I know it has wonderful fund-raising capabilities. And I know the temptation to ego-expansion when one feels that he has the ear of the President. But the result is that we are now part of an evangelical movement that is greatly compromised….identified in the eyes of the public as deep in the hip pockets of the Republican party and administration. My own belief? Our movement has been used. There are hints that the movement—once cobbled together by Billy Graham and Harold Ockenga—is beginning to fragment because it is more identified by a political agenda that seems to be failing and less identified by a commitment to Jesus and his kingdom. Like it or not, we are pictured as those who support war, torture, and a go-it-alone (bullying) posture in international relationships. Any of us who travel internationally have tasted the global hostility toward our government and the suspicion that our President’s policies reflect the real tenants of Evangelical faith. And I might add that there is considerable disillusionment on the part of many of our Christian brothers/sisters in other countries who are mystified as to where American evangelicals are in all of this. Our movement may have its Supreme Court appointments, but it may also have compromised its historic center of Biblical faith. Is it time to let the larger public know that some larger-than-life evangelical personalities with radio and TV shows do not speak for all of us?
And so I pray: Lord and Father, how sad you must be when you see the most powerful and the weakest of your children fall prey to the energy of sin and evil. There is nothing any one has ever done that we –each of us—is not capable of doing. So when we pray for our brother, Ted Haggard, we pray not out of pity or self-righteousness but with a humble spirit because we stand with him on level ground before the cross. Father, give this man and his wife the gift of your grace. Protect them from the constant accusations of the evil one who will seek to deny them sleep, tempt them to talk too much to the public, arouse conflict between them as a couple and with their children. Send the right people into their lives who can provide the correct mixture of hope and healing love. Deliver them from people who will curry their favor by telling them things they should not hear. Restrain them from making poor judgments in their most fearful moments.
Lord, be present to the leaders and people of the New Life Church. And to the NAE leadership which has to live with the side-effects of this tragedy. And to people in the evangelical tradition who are wondering today who they can trust. What more can we pray for? You know all things. We so very little. Amen.
The Haggard Truth: Gordon MacDonald on the lies all-too-easily believed
What are Christian leaders to make of the spectacularly painful experience of watching Ted Haggard this past week? The president of the National Association of Evangelicals and pastor of giga-church New Life Community in Colorado Springs, Colorado, gradually admitted to purchasing methamphetamines and the services of a male prostitute. We asked Leadership editor-at-large Gordon MacDonald to reflect on what we should learn from this episode.
It is difficult beyond description to watch Ted Haggard’s name and face dragged across the TV screen every hour on the news shows. But as my friend, Tony Campolo said in an interview last week, when we spend our lives seizing the microphone to speak to the world of our opinions and judgments, we should not surprised when the system redirects its spotlight to us, justly or unjustly, in our bad moments.
We are still in the process of learning what has actually transpired over the past many months on the secret side of Ted’s life. In just the last few hours the leadership of New Life Church has announced that he has been asked to resign. His ministry at New Life Church and as leader of the NAE is over.
I’ve spent more than a little time trying to understand how and why some men/women in all kinds of leadership get themselves into trouble whether the issues be moral, financial, or the abuse of power and ego. I am no stranger to failure and public humiliation. From those terrible moments of twenty years ago in my own life I have come to believe that there is a deeper person in many of us who is not unlike an assassin.
This deeper person (like a contentious board member) can be the source of attitudes and behaviors we normally stand against in our conscious being. But it seeks to destroy us and masses energies that—unrestrained—tempt us to do the very things we “believe against.” If you have been burned as deeply as I (and my loved ones) have, you never live a day without remembering that there is something within that, left unguarded, will go on the rampage. Wallace Hamilton once wrote, “Within each of us there is a herd of wild horses all wanting to run loose.”
It seems to me that when people become leaders of outsized organizations and movements, when they become famous and their opinions are constantly sought by the media, we ought to begin to become cautious. The very drive that propels some leaders toward extraordinary levels of achievement is a drive that often keeps expanding even after reasonable goals and objectives have been achieved. Like a river that breaks its levy, that drive often strays into areas of excitement and risk that can be dangerous and destructive. Sometimes the drive appears to be unstoppable. This seems to have been the experience of the Older Testament David and his wandering eyes, Uzziah in his boredom, and Solomon with his insatiable hunger for wealth, wives and horses. They seem to have been questing—addictively?—for more thrills or trying to meet deeper personal needs, and the normal ways that satisfy most people became inadequate for them.
When I see a leader who becomes stubborn and rigid, who becomes increasingly less compassionate toward his adversaries, increasingly tyrannical in his own organization, who rouses anger and arrogance in others, I wonder if he is not generating all of this heat because he is trying so hard to say “no” to something surging deep within his own soul. Are his words and deeds not so much directed against an enemy “out there” as they are against a much more cunning enemy within his own soul. More than once I have visited with pastors who have spent hours immersed in pornography and then gone on to preach their most “spirit-filled” sermons against immorality a day or two later. It’s a disconnect that boggles the rational mind.
No amount of accountability seems to be adequate to contain a person living with such inner conflict. Neither can it contain a person who needs continuous adrenalin highs to trump the highs of yesterday. Maybe this is one of the geniuses of Jesus: he knew when to stop, how to refuse the cocktail of privilege, fame and applause that distorts one’s ability to think wisely and to master self.
More than once we’ve seen the truth of a person’s life come out, not all at once, but in a series of disclosures, each an admission of further culpability which had been denied just a day or two before. Perhaps inability to tell the full truth is a sign that one is actually lying to himself and cannot face the full truth of the behavior in his own soul.
But then all sin begins with lies told to oneself. The cardinal lies of a failed leader? I give and give and give in this position; I deserve special privileges—perhaps even the privilege of living above the rules. Or, I have enough charm and enough smooth words that I can talk anything (even my innocence) into reality. Or, so much of my life is lived above the line of holiness that I can be excused this one little faux pas. Or, I have done so much for these people; now it’s their time to do something for me—like forgiving me and giving a second chance.
I am heart-broken for Ted Haggard and his wife and family. I cannot imagine the torture they are living through at this very moment. Toppled from national esteem and regard in a matter of hours, they must adjust to wondering who their real friends are now. They have to be asking how these events—known by the world—will affect their children. Mrs. Haggard will not be able to go the local WalMart without wondering who she may bump into when she turns into Aisle 3 (A reporter? A church member? A critic?). Both Haggards will face cameras every time they emerge from their home in the next few days until the media finds another person with whom to have its sport.
The travel, the connections, the interviews, the applause of the congregation, the organizational power, the perks and privileges, the honor: gone! The introit to people of position/power: gone! The opportunity to say an influential word each day into the lives of teachable younger people: gone! The certainty that God has anointed one for such a time as this: gone? And what will grow each day is the numbing realization of regret and loss. In time they will be approached by people who will say in one way or another, “I used to trust you, but what you’ve done has made me very angry….you’ve turned my son away from the gospel….I thought I knew you, but I guess I didn’t.” It will be a long time before either of the Haggards feel safe again. Suffering over this will last most of a lifetime even after some sort of restoration is rendered. How I wish this could all be lifted from them.
Perhaps there will come a day down the pathway when there will be some kind of return to influence. But right now it is—or should be—a long way in the distance.
Among my prayers is that the leadership of New Life Church will not assume that “restoration” means getting Ted back into the pulpit as soon as possible. The worst thing in the world would be to raise his hopes that just because he models a contrite spirit he can return to public life in the near future. He, for his own sake, must take a long time to work through the causative factors in this situation. He will not resolve whatever is wrong in his own soul by going back to work. He and his wife must set aside a long, long time to allow their personal relationship to heal. Forgiveness is a long healing, not a momentary one. And there are those five children. Thinking of them makes me want to weep. And then there are countless people in and beyond their church who must take a long time to figure out what all of this means. No, the worst things Ted’s friends and overseers can do is to try and bring him back from this prematurely. The best thing they can do is ask him to retreat into silence with those he loves the most and listen—to God, to trusted elders.
The statement issued by the NAE Executive Committee late Friday afternoon seems flat to me. It appears to have been written by savvy PR people who wanted to say all the nice and appropriate things which might mollify the media and cause no heartburn for the lawyers. The burden of the statement seems to be that the NAE is already on to the question of who the next leader will be. The fact is that, all too often, we have seen the President of NAE on the news and talk shows speaking as the leader of so-called 33 million evangelicals. I’m not sure that most of us were polled as to whether or not we wanted Ted Haggard (or anyone) speaking for us. I know that last time I felt safe about anyone speaking for evangelicals as a whole was when Billy Graham talked on our behalf. But, as of late, an illusion was permitted to grow: that the NAE was a well-organized, highly networked movement of American evangelicals headed by Ted Haggard who, when he spoke, spoke for all of us. Now, unfortunately, that voice has misspoken, and our movement has to live with the consequences.
I have a fairly poor batting average when it comes to predicting the future. But my own sense is that the NAE (as we know it) will probably not recover from this awful moment. Should it? Leaders of various NAE constituencies are likely to believe that their fortunes are better served by new and fresher alliances.
Ever since the beginning of the Bush administration, I have worried over the tendency of certain Evangelical personalities to go public every time they visited the White House or had a phone conference with an administration official. I know it has wonderful fund-raising capabilities. And I know the temptation to ego-expansion when one feels that he has the ear of the President. But the result is that we are now part of an evangelical movement that is greatly compromised….identified in the eyes of the public as deep in the hip pockets of the Republican party and administration. My own belief? Our movement has been used. There are hints that the movement—once cobbled together by Billy Graham and Harold Ockenga—is beginning to fragment because it is more identified by a political agenda that seems to be failing and less identified by a commitment to Jesus and his kingdom. Like it or not, we are pictured as those who support war, torture, and a go-it-alone (bullying) posture in international relationships. Any of us who travel internationally have tasted the global hostility toward our government and the suspicion that our President’s policies reflect the real tenants of Evangelical faith. And I might add that there is considerable disillusionment on the part of many of our Christian brothers/sisters in other countries who are mystified as to where American evangelicals are in all of this. Our movement may have its Supreme Court appointments, but it may also have compromised its historic center of Biblical faith. Is it time to let the larger public know that some larger-than-life evangelical personalities with radio and TV shows do not speak for all of us?
And so I pray: Lord and Father, how sad you must be when you see the most powerful and the weakest of your children fall prey to the energy of sin and evil. There is nothing any one has ever done that we –each of us—is not capable of doing. So when we pray for our brother, Ted Haggard, we pray not out of pity or self-righteousness but with a humble spirit because we stand with him on level ground before the cross. Father, give this man and his wife the gift of your grace. Protect them from the constant accusations of the evil one who will seek to deny them sleep, tempt them to talk too much to the public, arouse conflict between them as a couple and with their children. Send the right people into their lives who can provide the correct mixture of hope and healing love. Deliver them from people who will curry their favor by telling them things they should not hear. Restrain them from making poor judgments in their most fearful moments.
Lord, be present to the leaders and people of the New Life Church. And to the NAE leadership which has to live with the side-effects of this tragedy. And to people in the evangelical tradition who are wondering today who they can trust. What more can we pray for? You know all things. We so very little. Amen.
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
go, Tigers...and more...
or it might be less...
I've stopped drinking Diet Coke for a little while. Doing something with a friend. Don't know when I'll pick it up again, but for now, I'm dry. Sure, I can drink other drinks...but there's nothing like a cold diet coke on a cold fall day...ahhh...
There are times when I get Diet Coke "saturated"...I start to feel it in terms of being tired more than I should and it just doesn't taste as good. So with this little hiatus, I think I've got a good energy level back and I'm sure it will taste good when I drink it again.
I may stay off caffein altogether. I'm not making any pledges or anything, but we'll see;-)
Heidi and I have been watching season 2 of Scrubs...perhaps the best show on tv. It is totally under-rated. I love the writing and the characters are well-developed. Rent it at the library and give it a try.
Levi is about to enter the world of the walking. He's taking a few steps at a time now. Life is about to get busy for us! The problem is, he's not much for taking a bonk on the noggen. So...when he falls, it usually involves crying. Oh, well...he'll toughen up one way or another.
My sister and her family are coming for a visit this weekend. Just a quickie, but it will be great to see them. I love seeing the boys...and Izak idolizes his cousins. Very fun to see.
I don't feel good about any of my choices for governor of IL. I'm usually right in there when it comes to voting and politics...this is the first time my stomache has turned to the point I don't feel good about making a choice. Not even sure who to write in...Here's to Mickey Mouse!
Well...there's a little brain dump for the morning. Back to work...
Peace,
M@
I've stopped drinking Diet Coke for a little while. Doing something with a friend. Don't know when I'll pick it up again, but for now, I'm dry. Sure, I can drink other drinks...but there's nothing like a cold diet coke on a cold fall day...ahhh...
There are times when I get Diet Coke "saturated"...I start to feel it in terms of being tired more than I should and it just doesn't taste as good. So with this little hiatus, I think I've got a good energy level back and I'm sure it will taste good when I drink it again.
I may stay off caffein altogether. I'm not making any pledges or anything, but we'll see;-)
Heidi and I have been watching season 2 of Scrubs...perhaps the best show on tv. It is totally under-rated. I love the writing and the characters are well-developed. Rent it at the library and give it a try.
Levi is about to enter the world of the walking. He's taking a few steps at a time now. Life is about to get busy for us! The problem is, he's not much for taking a bonk on the noggen. So...when he falls, it usually involves crying. Oh, well...he'll toughen up one way or another.
My sister and her family are coming for a visit this weekend. Just a quickie, but it will be great to see them. I love seeing the boys...and Izak idolizes his cousins. Very fun to see.
I don't feel good about any of my choices for governor of IL. I'm usually right in there when it comes to voting and politics...this is the first time my stomache has turned to the point I don't feel good about making a choice. Not even sure who to write in...Here's to Mickey Mouse!
Well...there's a little brain dump for the morning. Back to work...
Peace,
M@
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
can't keep up...
Just keeping up with life these days is keeping me busy...thus not much by way of posting.
As of today, all of our children have an age...no one is "zero" any more -- that's how Izak described Levi. But today, our youngest turns one...incredible!
A couple days ago, our oldest, Izak, turned 4. He's such a little boy, now...past toddler, that's for sure. I love interacting with him, laughing with him, and talking with him. He's a gift.
We had a party on Sunday. Both of the boys were celebrated by friends and family. What a gift to have a growing community here who will share life and party with us.
I stayed up late Monday to watch the Bears. Though I'm dead tired now, it was worth it to see that game. Fun to be in Chicago this year...so far.
There's a quick update.
Peace,
M@
As of today, all of our children have an age...no one is "zero" any more -- that's how Izak described Levi. But today, our youngest turns one...incredible!
A couple days ago, our oldest, Izak, turned 4. He's such a little boy, now...past toddler, that's for sure. I love interacting with him, laughing with him, and talking with him. He's a gift.
We had a party on Sunday. Both of the boys were celebrated by friends and family. What a gift to have a growing community here who will share life and party with us.
I stayed up late Monday to watch the Bears. Though I'm dead tired now, it was worth it to see that game. Fun to be in Chicago this year...so far.
There's a quick update.
Peace,
M@
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
breaks=good
Yeah...was driving home from the store this morning when I sensed a lot of play in the breaks of my car. Play...as in they didn't work...you should have seen the face of the lady in the minivan on the corner...
couple hours late, I'm back on the road...driving AND breaking!
couple hours late, I'm back on the road...driving AND breaking!
Thursday, October 05, 2006
Being The Church
Catalytic Conversations: A beautiful and messy kingdom.
By Marshall Shelley on Mission
Leadership editor Marshall Shelley is in Atlanta this week for the Catalyst Conference, where 9,000 mostly younger leaders of churches are meeting to discuss ministry in today’s culture. Here’s his first report.
Right now I’m sitting in the balcony of the Performing Arts Center, where in a few minutes an informal “unplugged” session will feature a conversation between neo-church pastors Chris Seay of Ecclesia in Houston and Rick McKinley of Imago Dei Community Church in Portland, Oregon, and a Rwandan pastor whose name I don’t know.
To the crowd of 300 or so, he [McKinley] offered a concise and provocative discussion of the relationship of the church to the Kingdom of God. This was theology, imminently practical theology.
“As pastors, we are tempted to build the church,” he said. “So we send out postcards to targeted Zip codes and we promote church programs.” But that misses the point, he argued. “Our job isn’t to build the church. We’re supposed to BE the church, and build the kingdom.” He emphasized that the kingdom is to be experienced NOW, on earth, as Christians exemplify godly living, but he also pointed out, as the recent school shootings demonstrate, that the kingdom is also “not yet.” God’s kingdom won’t be realized in its fullness as long as such sin characterizes our world.
He identified why many U.S. churches don’t “get” the kingdom. The first reason is our individualistic culture. Ours is a “me and Jesus” spiritual life, disconnected from Creation, environment, relationships, and our surrounding community. Another reason is our tendency toward dualism: church vs. culture; sacred vs. secular; spiritual vs. physical. And ignoring the integration of those elements.
McKinley acknowledges the importance of Christ’s atonement for the forgiveness of individuals, but as he emphasized, “The best expression of the church is NOT what happens on Sunday morning. It’s what happens in the world during the week. And that’s not something you can market.”
His most provocative statements focused on the Christian’s calling to love their neighbors, even if those neighbors don’t respond to Christ or clean up their act. He told of his church’s messy efforts to love those with addictions, mental illnesses, and other conditions that aren’t easily cleaned up.
“We’re not called to change people’s behavior; we’re called to love them whether they change or not. It’s up to God to change them.”
After the lab, hallway conversations were discussing how you can “love the addicted” without “enabling” their dysfunction and thus perpetuating their addiction.
If this is indicative of the level of conversation, this year’s Catalyst is embracing both theology and practice, and getting to the heart of the Christian calling.
*************
What do you think?
By Marshall Shelley on Mission
Leadership editor Marshall Shelley is in Atlanta this week for the Catalyst Conference, where 9,000 mostly younger leaders of churches are meeting to discuss ministry in today’s culture. Here’s his first report.
Right now I’m sitting in the balcony of the Performing Arts Center, where in a few minutes an informal “unplugged” session will feature a conversation between neo-church pastors Chris Seay of Ecclesia in Houston and Rick McKinley of Imago Dei Community Church in Portland, Oregon, and a Rwandan pastor whose name I don’t know.
To the crowd of 300 or so, he [McKinley] offered a concise and provocative discussion of the relationship of the church to the Kingdom of God. This was theology, imminently practical theology.
“As pastors, we are tempted to build the church,” he said. “So we send out postcards to targeted Zip codes and we promote church programs.” But that misses the point, he argued. “Our job isn’t to build the church. We’re supposed to BE the church, and build the kingdom.” He emphasized that the kingdom is to be experienced NOW, on earth, as Christians exemplify godly living, but he also pointed out, as the recent school shootings demonstrate, that the kingdom is also “not yet.” God’s kingdom won’t be realized in its fullness as long as such sin characterizes our world.
He identified why many U.S. churches don’t “get” the kingdom. The first reason is our individualistic culture. Ours is a “me and Jesus” spiritual life, disconnected from Creation, environment, relationships, and our surrounding community. Another reason is our tendency toward dualism: church vs. culture; sacred vs. secular; spiritual vs. physical. And ignoring the integration of those elements.
McKinley acknowledges the importance of Christ’s atonement for the forgiveness of individuals, but as he emphasized, “The best expression of the church is NOT what happens on Sunday morning. It’s what happens in the world during the week. And that’s not something you can market.”
His most provocative statements focused on the Christian’s calling to love their neighbors, even if those neighbors don’t respond to Christ or clean up their act. He told of his church’s messy efforts to love those with addictions, mental illnesses, and other conditions that aren’t easily cleaned up.
“We’re not called to change people’s behavior; we’re called to love them whether they change or not. It’s up to God to change them.”
After the lab, hallway conversations were discussing how you can “love the addicted” without “enabling” their dysfunction and thus perpetuating their addiction.
If this is indicative of the level of conversation, this year’s Catalyst is embracing both theology and practice, and getting to the heart of the Christian calling.
*************
What do you think?
Friday, September 29, 2006
new member of the family...
For the past many years, we've been having trouble with our minivan. We've thought that this repair will be the one that fixes the problems. Then two months later, it's another thing that's taking money from the bank account.
It's just been too much. So yesterday, we got rid of the trouble and took advantage of 0% financing on a new Dodge Caravan. It's red and has the basics we were looking for.
We haven't always done car-buying well for one reason or another. But this time, I think we did it right...we sought godly counsel, prayed, researched, walked away a few times, and made a good decision. We've learned from past mistakes and applied them in this situation. I'm pleased with the process, as long as it was.
I wanted to just get it done earlier so we could move on. I also thought about getting a very upgraded one...with all the bells and whistles. But you know what? Those bells and whistles don't make it any more than just a van to drive around in. And they cost us a lot more...the ability to enjoy a few dates a month, the flexibility for Heidi to not work if she needs to call off, saving, and giving. Those costs just aren't worth it so us. So we made a good choice.
Maybe I'll get a picture up sometime here...
M@
It's just been too much. So yesterday, we got rid of the trouble and took advantage of 0% financing on a new Dodge Caravan. It's red and has the basics we were looking for.
We haven't always done car-buying well for one reason or another. But this time, I think we did it right...we sought godly counsel, prayed, researched, walked away a few times, and made a good decision. We've learned from past mistakes and applied them in this situation. I'm pleased with the process, as long as it was.
I wanted to just get it done earlier so we could move on. I also thought about getting a very upgraded one...with all the bells and whistles. But you know what? Those bells and whistles don't make it any more than just a van to drive around in. And they cost us a lot more...the ability to enjoy a few dates a month, the flexibility for Heidi to not work if she needs to call off, saving, and giving. Those costs just aren't worth it so us. So we made a good choice.
Maybe I'll get a picture up sometime here...
M@
Thursday, September 28, 2006
catching up...
mostly...It's been a crazy week or so. Here's a rundown with potential commentatry...
- I can't stand the Yankees...but the multiple post is more of a reflection of my own impatience in not waiting for blogger to download before I tell it to try again;-) Though, in case I didn't make my point clearly...I can't stand the Yankees!
- Heidi, the kids, and I traveled to Michigan last Thursday to be with her family and for the the memorial service to honor Grandma Bennett. It went well. The kids did great in the van (with dvd players!).
- The service on Saturday went well. Grandma was honored. The family was comforted. And God was lifted up as the giver of life. I was glad to be a part of it.
- On the drive to Michigan, I got a call that Mrs. Nguyen (pronounced 'win') died. She has been a part of Northwest for several years and has been living with her daughter and son-in-law, who are Northwesters, too. Her funeral would be Sunday afternoon.
- Mrs. Nguyen's and the Doan's small group stepped up during this time. Even though I was not there, they were well cared for. That's community, baby! I love to see that at work.
- After the memorial service in Michigan, I hopped in my mil's yellow VW Beetle and drove to Chicago (hey, it gets great mileage as a diesel 5-speed) in time for the viewing. It was a neat time to connect with the family and plan for the service on Sunday.
- Sunday morning was special, too. Northwest is helping a new Korean church by letting them use our space Sunday afternoons. The congregation was introduced to Pastor Choi and his family during the 1030 worship gathering. People were excited. Rev. Choi and his family gave us a gift in song...they played and sang Nearer My God To Thee. Even though the words were in Korean, the Spirit of unity was present and was a gift to us. Very cool.
- The afternoon funeral went well. Another cultural experience as Mrs. Nguyen and her family are Vietnamese. It was very special.
- After that service and a brief stop at the dinner prepared, I went hopped back into the VW and drove back to Michigan to get my family. I laid down to sleep by 2am and got to sleep until about 7 when I woke up to kiss on the cheek by my oldest son...what a great way to wake up...
- We were on the road by 10am and heading back to Chicago. We beat rush-hour traffic in the city and where playing in our own back yard by 3.
- Since that time, we've been examining the options of getting a new van. Ours has had regular trouble and we're done dealing with it. I think we found something that will work...but we're still praying for wisdom and God's leadership in this process.
So...that's the scoop. It's been a whirlwind for sure...but very good, too. I'm excited about the cross-cultural implications of supporting Good News Church (the Korean congregation) as they reach a group of people in our community that Northwest never will. I love that. We/I will learn much, no doubt.
Thanks for praying for us during the past week.
Peace,
Matt
- I can't stand the Yankees...but the multiple post is more of a reflection of my own impatience in not waiting for blogger to download before I tell it to try again;-) Though, in case I didn't make my point clearly...I can't stand the Yankees!
- Heidi, the kids, and I traveled to Michigan last Thursday to be with her family and for the the memorial service to honor Grandma Bennett. It went well. The kids did great in the van (with dvd players!).
- The service on Saturday went well. Grandma was honored. The family was comforted. And God was lifted up as the giver of life. I was glad to be a part of it.
- On the drive to Michigan, I got a call that Mrs. Nguyen (pronounced 'win') died. She has been a part of Northwest for several years and has been living with her daughter and son-in-law, who are Northwesters, too. Her funeral would be Sunday afternoon.
- Mrs. Nguyen's and the Doan's small group stepped up during this time. Even though I was not there, they were well cared for. That's community, baby! I love to see that at work.
- After the memorial service in Michigan, I hopped in my mil's yellow VW Beetle and drove to Chicago (hey, it gets great mileage as a diesel 5-speed) in time for the viewing. It was a neat time to connect with the family and plan for the service on Sunday.
- Sunday morning was special, too. Northwest is helping a new Korean church by letting them use our space Sunday afternoons. The congregation was introduced to Pastor Choi and his family during the 1030 worship gathering. People were excited. Rev. Choi and his family gave us a gift in song...they played and sang Nearer My God To Thee. Even though the words were in Korean, the Spirit of unity was present and was a gift to us. Very cool.
- The afternoon funeral went well. Another cultural experience as Mrs. Nguyen and her family are Vietnamese. It was very special.
- After that service and a brief stop at the dinner prepared, I went hopped back into the VW and drove back to Michigan to get my family. I laid down to sleep by 2am and got to sleep until about 7 when I woke up to kiss on the cheek by my oldest son...what a great way to wake up...
- We were on the road by 10am and heading back to Chicago. We beat rush-hour traffic in the city and where playing in our own back yard by 3.
- Since that time, we've been examining the options of getting a new van. Ours has had regular trouble and we're done dealing with it. I think we found something that will work...but we're still praying for wisdom and God's leadership in this process.
So...that's the scoop. It's been a whirlwind for sure...but very good, too. I'm excited about the cross-cultural implications of supporting Good News Church (the Korean congregation) as they reach a group of people in our community that Northwest never will. I love that. We/I will learn much, no doubt.
Thanks for praying for us during the past week.
Peace,
Matt
Thursday, September 21, 2006
I hate...
...the Yankees...not personally...but as a team. I hate that they can buy themselves out of a management crisis. I hate that it works just about every year.
I also hate that the Red Sox rolled over and played dead since August. Come on, Theo...what will the costume be this year?
So this post-season, guess who I'm pulling for? Anyone playing those dang Yankees!!
M@
I also hate that the Red Sox rolled over and played dead since August. Come on, Theo...what will the costume be this year?
So this post-season, guess who I'm pulling for? Anyone playing those dang Yankees!!
M@
I hate...
...the Yankees...not personally...but as a team. I hate that they can buy themselves out of a management crisis. I hate that it works just about every year.
I also hate that the Red Sox rolled over and played dead since August. Come on, Theo...what will the costume be this year?
So this post-season, guess who I'm pulling for? Anyone playing those dang Yankees!!
M@
I also hate that the Red Sox rolled over and played dead since August. Come on, Theo...what will the costume be this year?
So this post-season, guess who I'm pulling for? Anyone playing those dang Yankees!!
M@
I hate...
...the Yankees...not personally...but as a team. I hate that they can buy themselves out of a management crisis. I hate that it works just about every year.
I also hate that the Red Sox rolled over and played dead since August. Come on, Theo...what will the costume be this year?
So this post-season, guess who I'm pulling for? Anyone playing those dang Yankees!!
M@
I also hate that the Red Sox rolled over and played dead since August. Come on, Theo...what will the costume be this year?
So this post-season, guess who I'm pulling for? Anyone playing those dang Yankees!!
M@
Wednesday, September 20, 2006
random thoughts...
I'm not even sure they qualify as thoughts, but here goes...
- what a great time this past weekend! What a gift for me to baptize Dennie during our worship gathering. She's a lady who is turned on in her faith and excited to follow Jesus. Right after she was baptized, her son, Sean, was, too. I love this stuff!!
- After worship, a bunch of Northwesters had a party. We grilled, played, jumped, ate, chased kids, got to know new friends and reconnected with old ones. It was a good day.
- Tomorrow Heidi, the kids, and I will head to Michigan for the memorial for Heidi's grandmother. It will be a special time with family, no doubt.
- Kevin's gone for a month on a sabbatical. It's about 2 years behind schedule for him, but it's well-deserved and (I hope) profitable for him. It will be strange not having him around for the month.
- one fantasy football team is doing quite well (2nd place) and other stinks (last place). I made some roster changes and we should be in good shape for this coming weekend.
After a late night elders' meeting, that's all I got...
Peace,
M@
- what a great time this past weekend! What a gift for me to baptize Dennie during our worship gathering. She's a lady who is turned on in her faith and excited to follow Jesus. Right after she was baptized, her son, Sean, was, too. I love this stuff!!
- After worship, a bunch of Northwesters had a party. We grilled, played, jumped, ate, chased kids, got to know new friends and reconnected with old ones. It was a good day.
- Tomorrow Heidi, the kids, and I will head to Michigan for the memorial for Heidi's grandmother. It will be a special time with family, no doubt.
- Kevin's gone for a month on a sabbatical. It's about 2 years behind schedule for him, but it's well-deserved and (I hope) profitable for him. It will be strange not having him around for the month.
- one fantasy football team is doing quite well (2nd place) and other stinks (last place). I made some roster changes and we should be in good shape for this coming weekend.
After a late night elders' meeting, that's all I got...
Peace,
M@
Wednesday, September 13, 2006
sacred moment
...and the little immigrant girl was ushered into the presence of the King. And for the first time, she saw His face clearly. She saw His smile. She knew His love without hinderance. And the little girl knew she was Home.
Good-bye, Grandma. It's been a long trip...but you're home.
Good-bye, Grandma. It's been a long trip...but you're home.
Saturday, September 09, 2006
quickie...
Several thoughts about several things...probably not much actually useful...we'll see...
- Heidi, the kids, and I will be driving to Bay City, MI tomorrow after worship. Grandma rallied a couple weeks ago, but seems to be making her final leg of the journey through this world. There are some things worth saying before that times comes. So we travel...
- Some great stuff is going on at Northwest. God's grace is showing up huge, which is always awesome! We'll be baptizing a couple people next weekend...I love that! There are some things that are a real challenge...but the dirty little secret is that I even love the hard stuff! I guess you'd say I found my niche...
- I've got two fantasy football teams. It happened sort of fast, but I like it and we're doing two. I plan on winning both...with one hand tied behind my back...just in case any of my oponents are check in on me here...be scared.
- I'm frustrated that the Red Sox have laid such a big turd on the end of their season. It was theirs to lose...and they are. And on top of that...I hate the Yankees...arghhh.
- Played nine holes this morning with a neighbor. It was good to get out and swing the club. I swung it a few too many times...but it was still fun. There's a cheap cow pasture down the road from us...good times.
- I'm listening to Levi jumping in his crib. He's nuts! Very charming, but nuts. He's standing...even a little without support. I keep trying to push him down, but he stands up anyway...punk.
- Heidi rocks as a wife. Just thought I'd put that in there. She really does.
- Kevin's a great partner in ministry. I'm glad he's here...and that I'm here, too. We work hard together...I think it's good. Props to you, Mr. Parido...
- I like ice cream. My kids like ice cream. Not sure if it's dna...or that ice cream is just good.
- I'm having a hard time getting over a little hump in my weight goals. Down 29 pounds for 2 weeks now...pushing...hard...for...30. But humps like this are a part of the process. I'm not discouraged, just addicted to meeting my goals! The running is going well. I'm running over 3 miles without passing out! I'm not breaking any land speed records, but hey...I'm still chubby and I'm out there tearing it up.
- I love that it's football season. Colder weather. fun games. My wife is an animal about football...I love that, too. Go Pats! Go State!
I've said my piece. Tomorrow as a part of worship, we will take some time to remember September 11, 2001. We will also pray for those who work hard to protect us daily. Should be a special time. It's not the whole service, but I think it's important for us to remember.
Peace,
M@
- Heidi, the kids, and I will be driving to Bay City, MI tomorrow after worship. Grandma rallied a couple weeks ago, but seems to be making her final leg of the journey through this world. There are some things worth saying before that times comes. So we travel...
- Some great stuff is going on at Northwest. God's grace is showing up huge, which is always awesome! We'll be baptizing a couple people next weekend...I love that! There are some things that are a real challenge...but the dirty little secret is that I even love the hard stuff! I guess you'd say I found my niche...
- I've got two fantasy football teams. It happened sort of fast, but I like it and we're doing two. I plan on winning both...with one hand tied behind my back...just in case any of my oponents are check in on me here...be scared.
- I'm frustrated that the Red Sox have laid such a big turd on the end of their season. It was theirs to lose...and they are. And on top of that...I hate the Yankees...arghhh.
- Played nine holes this morning with a neighbor. It was good to get out and swing the club. I swung it a few too many times...but it was still fun. There's a cheap cow pasture down the road from us...good times.
- I'm listening to Levi jumping in his crib. He's nuts! Very charming, but nuts. He's standing...even a little without support. I keep trying to push him down, but he stands up anyway...punk.
- Heidi rocks as a wife. Just thought I'd put that in there. She really does.
- Kevin's a great partner in ministry. I'm glad he's here...and that I'm here, too. We work hard together...I think it's good. Props to you, Mr. Parido...
- I like ice cream. My kids like ice cream. Not sure if it's dna...or that ice cream is just good.
- I'm having a hard time getting over a little hump in my weight goals. Down 29 pounds for 2 weeks now...pushing...hard...for...30. But humps like this are a part of the process. I'm not discouraged, just addicted to meeting my goals! The running is going well. I'm running over 3 miles without passing out! I'm not breaking any land speed records, but hey...I'm still chubby and I'm out there tearing it up.
- I love that it's football season. Colder weather. fun games. My wife is an animal about football...I love that, too. Go Pats! Go State!
I've said my piece. Tomorrow as a part of worship, we will take some time to remember September 11, 2001. We will also pray for those who work hard to protect us daily. Should be a special time. It's not the whole service, but I think it's important for us to remember.
Peace,
M@
Friday, September 01, 2006
...at what cost?
I'm an optimist. It's a disease (thanks, Patty) at times. And I tend to dream big. "Dream big" can mean any number of things depending on the situation, but it usually involved going for something that is "impossible." And on top of that, I believe one of the ways that God has gifted me through His Spirit is with eyes of faith -- I see Him at work even when others might miss it.
I started dreaming big about Northwest before we even hit the ground 19 months ago. I believe that God is desiring to use us to reach our community with the profound message of love, grace, and hope through Jesus. That's my assumption in moving forward.
Shortly after beginning work here, I would daydream (not necessarily Spirit-led) about a different building...something with more visibility (how many conversations I've had with people who had no idea a church was where we are), cooler look/feel, and more room to grow numerically. As I drive home each day, I pass by such a building. It's a big, sqare, brick, box of a building. Perfect. I've fantacized about that building for about 18 of the last 19 months. Someday, it would be great if that put that building up for sale...you know, in a few years when we'll be looking to move or build or something.
Then it happened. I was leaving the office one Saturday afternoon, allowing my fantasy to take hold in my mind. Turning the corner, I shouted outloud to no one in particular, "Oh, NO!!!" There is was. a real estate sign in the front of the building. No, not now...we're not ready. I'm not ready. It's too soon...
I thought more about it. I talked with God about it. My mind often wandered. I called the agent who said they were simply leasing the space...but try making an offer and see what happens. I fantacized some more. Tried to dismiss it. Couldn't.
The other day, I was driving by and the doors were open. It's a sing...go in, Matt. So I did. It was even more perfect than I thought it would be. So many of the ideas I had in my head would work perfectly in that building. Crap!! To the guy with me, I jokingly referred to it as "pastor porn" - something I would fantasize about but only to be distracted, never to be satisfied.
I thought. I prayed. I desired. I came up with a plan as to how we could actually make it work. And I honestly think we could. But then, as clear as day, the Spirit said this...you could do it, but then you'll have to care a lot about stuff that you don't have to care much about right now. Namely, I would have to care a lot about money -- who is giving, where we are tight, how much more we need. I'd start to think of new people in terms of giving. I'd start to cast vision, not to lead people, but to increase giving. I'd teach about money and finances in order to get more, not to lead the people into greater faithfulness and trust in God. I could do it...but at what cost?
Yeah...it's a great building. It would be great for us in many ways. But my dream is so much bigger than a building. It's not what a church looks like, my dreams are about what a church is becoming...who the people are. I care a lot about those things. those are the things I want keeping me up at night.
Doesn't mean we won't ever go for things like a bigger and more useful building. But that's probably a ways off. There's a way that I want us to do life together...and I'm not willing to give that up...that's too much of a cost for me.
Peace,
M@
I started dreaming big about Northwest before we even hit the ground 19 months ago. I believe that God is desiring to use us to reach our community with the profound message of love, grace, and hope through Jesus. That's my assumption in moving forward.
Shortly after beginning work here, I would daydream (not necessarily Spirit-led) about a different building...something with more visibility (how many conversations I've had with people who had no idea a church was where we are), cooler look/feel, and more room to grow numerically. As I drive home each day, I pass by such a building. It's a big, sqare, brick, box of a building. Perfect. I've fantacized about that building for about 18 of the last 19 months. Someday, it would be great if that put that building up for sale...you know, in a few years when we'll be looking to move or build or something.
Then it happened. I was leaving the office one Saturday afternoon, allowing my fantasy to take hold in my mind. Turning the corner, I shouted outloud to no one in particular, "Oh, NO!!!" There is was. a real estate sign in the front of the building. No, not now...we're not ready. I'm not ready. It's too soon...
I thought more about it. I talked with God about it. My mind often wandered. I called the agent who said they were simply leasing the space...but try making an offer and see what happens. I fantacized some more. Tried to dismiss it. Couldn't.
The other day, I was driving by and the doors were open. It's a sing...go in, Matt. So I did. It was even more perfect than I thought it would be. So many of the ideas I had in my head would work perfectly in that building. Crap!! To the guy with me, I jokingly referred to it as "pastor porn" - something I would fantasize about but only to be distracted, never to be satisfied.
I thought. I prayed. I desired. I came up with a plan as to how we could actually make it work. And I honestly think we could. But then, as clear as day, the Spirit said this...you could do it, but then you'll have to care a lot about stuff that you don't have to care much about right now. Namely, I would have to care a lot about money -- who is giving, where we are tight, how much more we need. I'd start to think of new people in terms of giving. I'd start to cast vision, not to lead people, but to increase giving. I'd teach about money and finances in order to get more, not to lead the people into greater faithfulness and trust in God. I could do it...but at what cost?
Yeah...it's a great building. It would be great for us in many ways. But my dream is so much bigger than a building. It's not what a church looks like, my dreams are about what a church is becoming...who the people are. I care a lot about those things. those are the things I want keeping me up at night.
Doesn't mean we won't ever go for things like a bigger and more useful building. But that's probably a ways off. There's a way that I want us to do life together...and I'm not willing to give that up...that's too much of a cost for me.
Peace,
M@
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
nonviolence
I read this on sojourners' web site. I thought it was an interesting article about nonviolence in an age of terrorism. What do you think?
*****************
Nonviolence and the strategy against terrorism
by David Cortright
In the months after 9/11, Jim Wallis challenged peace advocates to address the threat of terrorism. “If nonviolence is to have any credibility,” he wrote, “it must answer the questions violence purports to answer, but in a better way.” Gandhian principles of nonviolence provide a solid foundation for crafting an effective strategy against terrorism. Nonviolence is fundamentally a means of achieving justice and combating oppression. Gandhi demonstrated its effectiveness in resisting racial injustice in South Africa and winning independence for India. People-power movements have since spread throughout the world, helping to bring down communism in Eastern Europe and advancing democracy in Serbia, Ukraine, and beyond. The same principles - fighting injustice while avoiding harm - can be applied in the struggle against violent extremism.
Bush administration officials and many political leaders in Washington view terrorism primarily through the prism of war. Kill enough militants, they believe, and the threat will go away. The opposite approach is more effective and less costly in lives. Some limited use of force to apprehend militants and destroy training camps is legitimate, but unilateral war is not. In the three years since the invasion of Iraq, the number of major terrorist incidents in the world has increased sharply. War itself is a form of terrorism. Using military force to counter terrorism is like pouring gasoline on a fire. It ignites hatred and vengeance and creates a cycle of violence that can spin out of control. A better strategy is to take away the fuel that sustains the fire. Only nonviolent methods can do that, by attempting to resolve the underlying political and social factors that give rise to armed violence.
The most urgent priority for countering terrorism, experts agree, is multilateral law enforcement to apprehend perpetrators and prevent future attacks. Cooperative law enforcement and intelligence sharing among governments have proven effective in reducing the operational capacity of terrorist networks. Governments are also cooperating to block financing for terrorist networks and deny safe haven, travel, and arms for terrorist militants. These efforts are fully compatible with the principles of nonviolence.
Terrorism is fundamentally a political phenomenon, concluded the U.N. Working Group on Terrorism in 2002. To overcome the scourge, “it is necessary to understand its political nature as well as its basic criminality and psychology.” This means addressing legitimate political grievances that terrorist groups exploit - such as the Israel-Palestine dispute, repressive policies by Arab governments, and the continuing U.S. military occupation in Iraq. These deeply-held grievances generate widespread political frustration and bitterness in many Arab and Muslim countries, including among people who condemn terrorism and al Qaeda’s brutal methods. As these conditions fester and worsen, support rises for the groups that resist them. Finding solutions to these dilemmas can help to undercut support for jihadism. The strategy against terrorism requires undermining the social base of extremism by driving a wedge between militants and their potential sympathizers. The goal should be to separate militants from their support base by resolving the political injustices that terrorists exploit.
A nonviolent approach should not be confused with appeasement or a defeatist justification of terrorist crimes. The point is not to excuse criminal acts but to learn why they occur and use this knowledge to prevent future attacks. A nonviolent strategy seeks to reduce the appeal of militants’ extremist methods by addressing legitimate grievances and providing channels of political engagement for those who sympathize with the declared political aims. A two-step response is essential: determined law enforcement pressure against terrorist criminals, and active engagement with affected communities to resolve underlying injustices. Ethicist Michael Walzer wrote, counterterrorism “must be aimed systematically at the terrorists themselves, never at the people for whom the terrorists claim to be acting.” Military attacks against potential sympathizers are counterproductive and tend to drive third parties toward militancy. Lawful police action is by its nature more discriminating and is more effective politically because it minimizes predictable backlash effects.
Gandhi’s political genius was in understanding the power of third party opinion. He did not try to challenge the British militarily but instead organized mass resistance to weaken the political legitimacy of the Raj. The nonviolent method, Reinhold Niebuhr wrote, undermines the authority and “moral unction” of the adversary. Gandhi realized that political struggles are ultimately a battle for hearts and minds. In all his campaigns, he assiduously cultivated the support of third parties by avoiding harm to the innocent and addressing legitimate grievances. These are essential insights for the struggle against terrorism. The fight will not be won on the battlefield. The more it is waged on that front, the less likely it can be won. The goal of U.S. strategy, said the 9/11 Commission, must be “prevailing over the ideology that contributes to Islamic terrorism.” Nonviolent resistance is the opposite of and a necessary antidote to the ideology of extreme violence. Gandhi often said, “An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind.” Better to keep our eyes open as we search for more effective means of eroding support for extremism, while protecting the innocent and bringing violent perpetrators to justice.
David Cortright is the author of Gandhi and Beyond: Nonviolence for an Age of Terrorism (Paradigm Publishers, 2006) and co-founder of the Center on Global Counter-Terrorism Cooperation.
*****************
Nonviolence and the strategy against terrorism
by David Cortright
In the months after 9/11, Jim Wallis challenged peace advocates to address the threat of terrorism. “If nonviolence is to have any credibility,” he wrote, “it must answer the questions violence purports to answer, but in a better way.” Gandhian principles of nonviolence provide a solid foundation for crafting an effective strategy against terrorism. Nonviolence is fundamentally a means of achieving justice and combating oppression. Gandhi demonstrated its effectiveness in resisting racial injustice in South Africa and winning independence for India. People-power movements have since spread throughout the world, helping to bring down communism in Eastern Europe and advancing democracy in Serbia, Ukraine, and beyond. The same principles - fighting injustice while avoiding harm - can be applied in the struggle against violent extremism.
Bush administration officials and many political leaders in Washington view terrorism primarily through the prism of war. Kill enough militants, they believe, and the threat will go away. The opposite approach is more effective and less costly in lives. Some limited use of force to apprehend militants and destroy training camps is legitimate, but unilateral war is not. In the three years since the invasion of Iraq, the number of major terrorist incidents in the world has increased sharply. War itself is a form of terrorism. Using military force to counter terrorism is like pouring gasoline on a fire. It ignites hatred and vengeance and creates a cycle of violence that can spin out of control. A better strategy is to take away the fuel that sustains the fire. Only nonviolent methods can do that, by attempting to resolve the underlying political and social factors that give rise to armed violence.
The most urgent priority for countering terrorism, experts agree, is multilateral law enforcement to apprehend perpetrators and prevent future attacks. Cooperative law enforcement and intelligence sharing among governments have proven effective in reducing the operational capacity of terrorist networks. Governments are also cooperating to block financing for terrorist networks and deny safe haven, travel, and arms for terrorist militants. These efforts are fully compatible with the principles of nonviolence.
Terrorism is fundamentally a political phenomenon, concluded the U.N. Working Group on Terrorism in 2002. To overcome the scourge, “it is necessary to understand its political nature as well as its basic criminality and psychology.” This means addressing legitimate political grievances that terrorist groups exploit - such as the Israel-Palestine dispute, repressive policies by Arab governments, and the continuing U.S. military occupation in Iraq. These deeply-held grievances generate widespread political frustration and bitterness in many Arab and Muslim countries, including among people who condemn terrorism and al Qaeda’s brutal methods. As these conditions fester and worsen, support rises for the groups that resist them. Finding solutions to these dilemmas can help to undercut support for jihadism. The strategy against terrorism requires undermining the social base of extremism by driving a wedge between militants and their potential sympathizers. The goal should be to separate militants from their support base by resolving the political injustices that terrorists exploit.
A nonviolent approach should not be confused with appeasement or a defeatist justification of terrorist crimes. The point is not to excuse criminal acts but to learn why they occur and use this knowledge to prevent future attacks. A nonviolent strategy seeks to reduce the appeal of militants’ extremist methods by addressing legitimate grievances and providing channels of political engagement for those who sympathize with the declared political aims. A two-step response is essential: determined law enforcement pressure against terrorist criminals, and active engagement with affected communities to resolve underlying injustices. Ethicist Michael Walzer wrote, counterterrorism “must be aimed systematically at the terrorists themselves, never at the people for whom the terrorists claim to be acting.” Military attacks against potential sympathizers are counterproductive and tend to drive third parties toward militancy. Lawful police action is by its nature more discriminating and is more effective politically because it minimizes predictable backlash effects.
Gandhi’s political genius was in understanding the power of third party opinion. He did not try to challenge the British militarily but instead organized mass resistance to weaken the political legitimacy of the Raj. The nonviolent method, Reinhold Niebuhr wrote, undermines the authority and “moral unction” of the adversary. Gandhi realized that political struggles are ultimately a battle for hearts and minds. In all his campaigns, he assiduously cultivated the support of third parties by avoiding harm to the innocent and addressing legitimate grievances. These are essential insights for the struggle against terrorism. The fight will not be won on the battlefield. The more it is waged on that front, the less likely it can be won. The goal of U.S. strategy, said the 9/11 Commission, must be “prevailing over the ideology that contributes to Islamic terrorism.” Nonviolent resistance is the opposite of and a necessary antidote to the ideology of extreme violence. Gandhi often said, “An eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind.” Better to keep our eyes open as we search for more effective means of eroding support for extremism, while protecting the innocent and bringing violent perpetrators to justice.
David Cortright is the author of Gandhi and Beyond: Nonviolence for an Age of Terrorism (Paradigm Publishers, 2006) and co-founder of the Center on Global Counter-Terrorism Cooperation.
updates...
I'm generally optimistic and encouraged these days. That doesn't mean there aren't challenging things on the radar, but I feel like I've come through a season in which God has been putting His finger on some heart issues in my life. As that season draws to a close, I sense that it's a "rest" period for that. This doesn't mean it's not important any more, but that I've seen what He wants me to see, made some adjustments to how I do life and think about life, and now is the time to assimilate those lessons into habits that help me move forward. I love to grow and learn. It's hard, but so worth it.
We're wrapping up a series on men at Northwest. I've had a great time doing this series and love seeing some of the impact of it in some others. Even women have commented to me how significant this has been for them. I've found encouragement in that -- mostly because the work being done is genuinely of the Spirit; my part has been to be faithful in presenting certain things and then let God do His work. That's fun to be a part of.
I'm in a couple Fantasy Football leagues. Heidi and I didn't do that last year, but enjoyed it the year before. One team has already been drafted and seems to be pretty good. I'm pleased. Will probably post on that a bit more later.
Peace,
M@
We're wrapping up a series on men at Northwest. I've had a great time doing this series and love seeing some of the impact of it in some others. Even women have commented to me how significant this has been for them. I've found encouragement in that -- mostly because the work being done is genuinely of the Spirit; my part has been to be faithful in presenting certain things and then let God do His work. That's fun to be a part of.
I'm in a couple Fantasy Football leagues. Heidi and I didn't do that last year, but enjoyed it the year before. One team has already been drafted and seems to be pretty good. I'm pleased. Will probably post on that a bit more later.
Peace,
M@
Thursday, August 17, 2006
PGA Championship...
I find myself easily distracted today. Because of yesterday. I'll explain...
For Father's Day, Heidi (and the kids, no doubt) gave me a special gift - tickets to a practice round for the PGA Championship in Medina (sound of us about an hour). Yesterday was the day.
I had an amazing time with Heidi at my side, graciously walking from hole to hole, trying to catch glimpses of great golfers on a great course. The weather was perfect. The company was perfect. And it was fun to see these men (many we recognized from watching golf on TV) hone their craft.
The day ended following John Daly on a couple holes. Waiting for him at the 10th tee, which is a "grip-it-and-rip-it" kind of hole, I was excited to see him drive...he's a long-baller on the drive. He walked up to the tee...and then right past the tee...to the car waiting just on the other side of the fence. I guess he's had enough practice. My guess is that the weekend will prove that he could have used a few more holes of practice...we'll see.
That disappointment began our long journey back to the clubhouse to go home. The course was changed a bit to accomodate the PGA, so the 10th tee, normally very near the clubhouse, was actually at the furthese possible point away from it. We got our walking in, for sure.
Heidi was hit in the leg by a little-known guy (at least to us). Joey Sindelar...he's shooting plus-2 as I write this...the curse of hitting Heidi Furr in the leg!! She got his ball as a gift.
What a day...Thank you, family. You love me well!
So today I'm a bit distracted. I'm checking on the scores and remembering what I saw. And smiling...
Furr
For Father's Day, Heidi (and the kids, no doubt) gave me a special gift - tickets to a practice round for the PGA Championship in Medina (sound of us about an hour). Yesterday was the day.
I had an amazing time with Heidi at my side, graciously walking from hole to hole, trying to catch glimpses of great golfers on a great course. The weather was perfect. The company was perfect. And it was fun to see these men (many we recognized from watching golf on TV) hone their craft.
The day ended following John Daly on a couple holes. Waiting for him at the 10th tee, which is a "grip-it-and-rip-it" kind of hole, I was excited to see him drive...he's a long-baller on the drive. He walked up to the tee...and then right past the tee...to the car waiting just on the other side of the fence. I guess he's had enough practice. My guess is that the weekend will prove that he could have used a few more holes of practice...we'll see.
That disappointment began our long journey back to the clubhouse to go home. The course was changed a bit to accomodate the PGA, so the 10th tee, normally very near the clubhouse, was actually at the furthese possible point away from it. We got our walking in, for sure.
Heidi was hit in the leg by a little-known guy (at least to us). Joey Sindelar...he's shooting plus-2 as I write this...the curse of hitting Heidi Furr in the leg!! She got his ball as a gift.
What a day...Thank you, family. You love me well!
So today I'm a bit distracted. I'm checking on the scores and remembering what I saw. And smiling...
Furr
Thursday, August 10, 2006
amazing gift...
Heidi gave me an amazing gift today. She created the space for me to head to Grand Haven, MI to meet with some mentors of mine (and my family). These are people that I try to connect with in person at least one time per year (my mentors...my family has to put up with me more than that!).
The journey of discovery began about 415am, when I pulled out of the driveway. Surely this will be early enough to avoid much traffic in the city of Chicago. I discovered that there are way too many people on the road at 4am in Chicago. Go home, people! Sleep in a bit more. The work will be there at 6, too!! Wow!
Got to Grand Haven, which is right on Lake Michigan. I grew up in this town and have always loved going to the waterfront. After 3.5 hours in the car, my muscles were aching. So I pulled into a parking lot and enjoyed a little morning jog near the water. From one end of the boardwalk to the end of the pier and back -- about 3 miles altogether. It was fun!
Spent some time with my folks and used their shower. Thank, Mom and Dad!!
Had lunch with Denny. Denny has been one of my biggest encouragers since I was a little kid. He took me under his wing when my father died and has always made time for me in his busy schedule. Denny is an encourager. He is also someone who kicks my arse...I got a bit of both during lunch. What did he speak into my life? That's for me to know and you to find out! Seriously...some of the stuff is close enough to my heart to share here. But I left my time with him both encouraged and challenged. It was worth the drive. Thanks, Denny.
After some time with family in the afternoon and a little shopping for my wife (no, I won't tell you what it was until I get home), I spent the evening with Larry and Brenda. I have spend countless hours in their living room since I was in High School. They have been profound mouthpieces of God into my life. Tonight was no exception. With a few simple questions, I shared with them what was going on in my life and at Northwest. They offered encouragement, insight, challenge, and powerful words into my life. Again, the specifics can feel somewhat sacred, so I won't write them out. But it was an incredible time with them.
Right now, I'm sitting in Jumpin' Java downtown Grand Haven. Processing my stuff a little before the drive home. I'm sort of stalling since I don't want to drive through the city too early -- the Sox will be finished whipping the *&%$&*^ Yankees tonight and I want to miss the traffic if possible.
Thank you, Heidi, for offering me this space to feed my soul. It's an amazing gift. It wasn't the same as Cambridge...but totally affirmed it...
My body is a little weary right now. But my soul is nourished. I realize at moments like this how totally blessed I am to have people who will invest themselves in me the way these folks do. I work hard for their investment to pay off...by God's grace.
Well...about time to hit the road. Gas is cheaper in Michigan...
Go Sox (White and Red)!!!
M@
The journey of discovery began about 415am, when I pulled out of the driveway. Surely this will be early enough to avoid much traffic in the city of Chicago. I discovered that there are way too many people on the road at 4am in Chicago. Go home, people! Sleep in a bit more. The work will be there at 6, too!! Wow!
Got to Grand Haven, which is right on Lake Michigan. I grew up in this town and have always loved going to the waterfront. After 3.5 hours in the car, my muscles were aching. So I pulled into a parking lot and enjoyed a little morning jog near the water. From one end of the boardwalk to the end of the pier and back -- about 3 miles altogether. It was fun!
Spent some time with my folks and used their shower. Thank, Mom and Dad!!
Had lunch with Denny. Denny has been one of my biggest encouragers since I was a little kid. He took me under his wing when my father died and has always made time for me in his busy schedule. Denny is an encourager. He is also someone who kicks my arse...I got a bit of both during lunch. What did he speak into my life? That's for me to know and you to find out! Seriously...some of the stuff is close enough to my heart to share here. But I left my time with him both encouraged and challenged. It was worth the drive. Thanks, Denny.
After some time with family in the afternoon and a little shopping for my wife (no, I won't tell you what it was until I get home), I spent the evening with Larry and Brenda. I have spend countless hours in their living room since I was in High School. They have been profound mouthpieces of God into my life. Tonight was no exception. With a few simple questions, I shared with them what was going on in my life and at Northwest. They offered encouragement, insight, challenge, and powerful words into my life. Again, the specifics can feel somewhat sacred, so I won't write them out. But it was an incredible time with them.
Right now, I'm sitting in Jumpin' Java downtown Grand Haven. Processing my stuff a little before the drive home. I'm sort of stalling since I don't want to drive through the city too early -- the Sox will be finished whipping the *&%$&*^ Yankees tonight and I want to miss the traffic if possible.
Thank you, Heidi, for offering me this space to feed my soul. It's an amazing gift. It wasn't the same as Cambridge...but totally affirmed it...
My body is a little weary right now. But my soul is nourished. I realize at moments like this how totally blessed I am to have people who will invest themselves in me the way these folks do. I work hard for their investment to pay off...by God's grace.
Well...about time to hit the road. Gas is cheaper in Michigan...
Go Sox (White and Red)!!!
M@
Monday, July 31, 2006
Milestone...
In one of my last posts, I mentioned that I'm making some lifestyle changes that should impact my health, girth, and longevity. In that, I also mentioned that I tend to be pretty sheepish about the whole thing. As I've thought more about that, I think I tend to be sheepish in part because I make bad choices and feel a certain amount of shame. I'm not proud of my weight...so I tend to either joke about it (if I can call myself fat, then your observation can be deflected) or avoid it.
I'm still not proud of my weight...it should never have gotten here. A friend posted on his blog that he stepped on his scale and it read 247. He decided to do something about that because his scale only went to 250. My answer is...time for a new scale!
But I've been adjusting several things in my life. And I am proud of that.
If someone is addicted to alcohol...they can just avoid drinking it for the rest of their life. In the same way, most people who are addicted to something can choose to just avoid it. But if you're addicted to food (using it for something other than nurishment), you can't just stop eating...at least you shouldn't. You have to eat. So it forces some issues that are unique. But I'm making different choices...and feel the grip of food loosening. Like the guy at AA who introduces himself as an alcoholic even though he's been dry for 23 years, I must always face the demons in my closet and cannot open the door any further than I absolutely have to. I'm encouraged by the progress there.
I've been running (actaully, jogging and walking)...working my way up to a 5k run. I'm encouraged by my progress. Today, I had a good run...went for over 25 minutes without walking. I thought I was doing great...until I was lapped by a guy clearly in his 50s...oh well...pretty good for the chubby guy who just started (see...it can be effective at dodging stuff). But I'm encouraged.
And when I stepped on the scale this morning for my official Monday morning weigh-in...I passed a huge mile marker for me...I've lost over 20 pounds! There is a whole lot more to go...but that was a biggie for me.
It's hard work. I don't always see the progress that I want. But I'm seeing results...and that will keep me coming back. I know there's a wall coming here sometime, but I plan to bust through and keep going.
At this point, I weigh less (barely) than I did when I arrived here...
I share that to give you a little glimpse of something that I'm encouraged by. I also know there are people reading this who shared with me their desire to take some of the same steps. So I write this to say, "Press on!" It's worth it.
Peace,
Matt
I'm still not proud of my weight...it should never have gotten here. A friend posted on his blog that he stepped on his scale and it read 247. He decided to do something about that because his scale only went to 250. My answer is...time for a new scale!
But I've been adjusting several things in my life. And I am proud of that.
If someone is addicted to alcohol...they can just avoid drinking it for the rest of their life. In the same way, most people who are addicted to something can choose to just avoid it. But if you're addicted to food (using it for something other than nurishment), you can't just stop eating...at least you shouldn't. You have to eat. So it forces some issues that are unique. But I'm making different choices...and feel the grip of food loosening. Like the guy at AA who introduces himself as an alcoholic even though he's been dry for 23 years, I must always face the demons in my closet and cannot open the door any further than I absolutely have to. I'm encouraged by the progress there.
I've been running (actaully, jogging and walking)...working my way up to a 5k run. I'm encouraged by my progress. Today, I had a good run...went for over 25 minutes without walking. I thought I was doing great...until I was lapped by a guy clearly in his 50s...oh well...pretty good for the chubby guy who just started (see...it can be effective at dodging stuff). But I'm encouraged.
And when I stepped on the scale this morning for my official Monday morning weigh-in...I passed a huge mile marker for me...I've lost over 20 pounds! There is a whole lot more to go...but that was a biggie for me.
It's hard work. I don't always see the progress that I want. But I'm seeing results...and that will keep me coming back. I know there's a wall coming here sometime, but I plan to bust through and keep going.
At this point, I weigh less (barely) than I did when I arrived here...
I share that to give you a little glimpse of something that I'm encouraged by. I also know there are people reading this who shared with me their desire to take some of the same steps. So I write this to say, "Press on!" It's worth it.
Peace,
Matt
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
ambition...
Is ambition consistent with following Jesus?
That was the question posed last night in our Small Group. Frankly, I'm a little torn about the answer.
It seems like the picture of Christianity in the church often is very docile...nice guys sitting in a room together doing whatever seems to come up. But I'm not sure this is the picture of Jesus. I think Jesus was very ambitious...he knew that he had a limited amount of time to accomplish His Father's will...which led him to the cross.
But in my mind, ambition often leads one to greater and greater achievement, responsibility, and the attention of others. Jesus' ambition drove him to a disgraceful death. Yes his life was filled with strategic investment of time and energy.
So, in some ways, ambition seems very consistent with following Jesus. Yet not a selfish ambition (which is the point I think James is making in James chapter 3 of the New Testament). It's an ambition to please the Father.
Ambition people make intentional, strategic decisions in how they spend time, money, energy. For example, great athletes spend everything on acheiving greatness in their field...everything they do moves them in that direction.
What would it look like for a follow of Jesus to be so ambitious that everything they did moved them close to Christ and the will of the Father? What if all my time, energy, money...everything was for that one goal?
I think that would be pretty ambition, don't you?
I'm a pretty driven person. I wrestle with that a lot in my own spirit. There are parts of that drive that aren't healthy. But some of that is just born in me. Understanding godly ambition means that I get to be who God made me to be by letting His Spirit harness it for His purposes, not my own.
That's good news to me...
Peace,
Matt
That was the question posed last night in our Small Group. Frankly, I'm a little torn about the answer.
It seems like the picture of Christianity in the church often is very docile...nice guys sitting in a room together doing whatever seems to come up. But I'm not sure this is the picture of Jesus. I think Jesus was very ambitious...he knew that he had a limited amount of time to accomplish His Father's will...which led him to the cross.
But in my mind, ambition often leads one to greater and greater achievement, responsibility, and the attention of others. Jesus' ambition drove him to a disgraceful death. Yes his life was filled with strategic investment of time and energy.
So, in some ways, ambition seems very consistent with following Jesus. Yet not a selfish ambition (which is the point I think James is making in James chapter 3 of the New Testament). It's an ambition to please the Father.
Ambition people make intentional, strategic decisions in how they spend time, money, energy. For example, great athletes spend everything on acheiving greatness in their field...everything they do moves them in that direction.
What would it look like for a follow of Jesus to be so ambitious that everything they did moved them close to Christ and the will of the Father? What if all my time, energy, money...everything was for that one goal?
I think that would be pretty ambition, don't you?
I'm a pretty driven person. I wrestle with that a lot in my own spirit. There are parts of that drive that aren't healthy. But some of that is just born in me. Understanding godly ambition means that I get to be who God made me to be by letting His Spirit harness it for His purposes, not my own.
That's good news to me...
Peace,
Matt
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
thought spatter...
There are many things on my mind these days...here's a spattering of them...
- Several words of encouragement on the weigh-loss front. Thanks. I spend much of my time being encouraged about the process. Yesterday's "official" weigh-in didn't turn out as well as previous weeks. I checked again today and it's much better. I don't get too yanked about specifics, but I watch trends...trends are good. I'm running a lot more than walking these days. I feel the difference.
- I felt like crap on Sunday. Things came together well except my stuff. Not sure what it was, but I felt like my message presentation was one of the worst that I can remember. And for those of you who remember worse...go ahead and keep that to yourself;-) There were several high points, but I was heavy with a lot of discouragement about my own contribution to the gathering. I don't like that at all. Again, I'm putting this out there for the sake of transparency, not to get any kind of response. My hunch is that sometimes people don't realize that leaders/pastors can get discouraged, too. I don't go there often, but...this Sunday was a doozy!
- I think it's great that Tiger won the British Open. He's an amazing golfer and I love to watch him work. I loved the rare glimpse at the friendship between him and his caddie, Steve. Even the best of performers/leaders/athletes need someone to lean on at significant moments. Good on you, Tiger! Now quick crying and get back to work;-)
- Heidi works so hard at home. I can't tell you how much I appreciate her. Day in and day out, she answers the same mundate questions that numb the brain. She wipes away tears. She laughs at silly things. She breaks up fights before they escalate. She feeds. And she does it all with an amazing spirit. Heidi is amazing!
- I'm sitting in my office staring down another crazy week. Here goes...
Peace,
Matt
- Several words of encouragement on the weigh-loss front. Thanks. I spend much of my time being encouraged about the process. Yesterday's "official" weigh-in didn't turn out as well as previous weeks. I checked again today and it's much better. I don't get too yanked about specifics, but I watch trends...trends are good. I'm running a lot more than walking these days. I feel the difference.
- I felt like crap on Sunday. Things came together well except my stuff. Not sure what it was, but I felt like my message presentation was one of the worst that I can remember. And for those of you who remember worse...go ahead and keep that to yourself;-) There were several high points, but I was heavy with a lot of discouragement about my own contribution to the gathering. I don't like that at all. Again, I'm putting this out there for the sake of transparency, not to get any kind of response. My hunch is that sometimes people don't realize that leaders/pastors can get discouraged, too. I don't go there often, but...this Sunday was a doozy!
- I think it's great that Tiger won the British Open. He's an amazing golfer and I love to watch him work. I loved the rare glimpse at the friendship between him and his caddie, Steve. Even the best of performers/leaders/athletes need someone to lean on at significant moments. Good on you, Tiger! Now quick crying and get back to work;-)
- Heidi works so hard at home. I can't tell you how much I appreciate her. Day in and day out, she answers the same mundate questions that numb the brain. She wipes away tears. She laughs at silly things. She breaks up fights before they escalate. She feeds. And she does it all with an amazing spirit. Heidi is amazing!
- I'm sitting in my office staring down another crazy week. Here goes...
Peace,
Matt
Thursday, July 20, 2006
touching base...
Didn't log in with anything specific in mind to write about. So I'm going to ramble for a minute and see if anything comes out...
I've been doing some great heart learning lately. God has used some challenging circumstances to highlight some things within me. Though these reflections aren't always easy to see/hear...they are providing me insight into myself so that I can change patterns that I'm not comfortable with. I know it's sort of ambiguous, but specifics aren't important.
I'm a little leary to put this out there. So I'll do the disclaimer first. I'm pretty sensitive to issues pertaining to my girth. I joke...but that's generally so that people know that I know that I'm too fat...humor is good that way;-) I also have appropriate people in positions of accountability and encouragement...so I don't share this in the hopes that people everywhere I go will comment on my eating habits. And finally, I don't share this so that anyone will be watching for progress and feel the need to comment.
So why am I writing this? Because I'm excited about it...it's a big piece of my learning and development at this point...and maybe somehow, I can encourage others.
I hit the wall about 5 weeks ago. I've been there before, but various stresses like new children, looking for a new job, moving, etc. captured more of my attention than my health. But a little bit of margin snuck into my life, allowing me to look more closely at choices that I've been making. And I just wasn't happy. That's the wall...I've had enough. It's actually a good place to be because it motivates change much more effectively than guilt and shame.
I began a change in my eating habits. There are some things that I just don't eat anymore...maybe when I was 50 pounds lighter and much younger it was ok. They just aren't ok any more. Though I will miss some of my old friends...they weren't good friends, so I'm better off without them. So my eating is different. I'm not going to share the plan...but I do have a plan. If you want more details, let me know.
I'm also exercising 4-5 times per week. I was motivated by a friend from college (shout out to don!). He connected me with coolrunning.com and the couch-to-5k running plan. In 9 weeks, anyone can go from couch potato to running 5k without stopping. I took the challenge and am in week 6...I skipped a little because it was just too slow at first. But I'm trying to pace myself so I don't blow me knees. So far so good.
I've turned the corner to the point where I feel better on the days I run than on the days I don't. That's a good feeling and part of what makes it worth it.
Why did I do this?
1. I want to raise my own children if at all possible. I know I could still get hit by a bus, but I'm not going to let my heart stop my parenting.
2. There is no way I'm going to let Heidi marry that doctor!!! I'm keeping her for myself!!
3. There is no way I can teach about self-control and discipline if I obviously don't have much. It's a spiritual matter.
4. God gave me this body. I'm not treating it very well. Sorry about that, God.
5. I'm too cheap to by new and bigger clothes. If I get the "big boy" clothes, they cost more. I'm too cheap.
6. I work hard. I can't afford to be tired and drained in my day. I need to make too many decisions that impact people. I need to manage my energy in the most effective way possible.
So, there are many reasons. I've got goals. I've got a plan. I'm working the plan and meeting the goals. I'm encouraged...and I haven't even lost enough weight for anyone to really even notice. But I do and I keep telling Heidi every Monday when I weigh in...
Anyway...that's a bit of my life. I think I'm good with sharing that...too late now!
Peace,
Matt
I've been doing some great heart learning lately. God has used some challenging circumstances to highlight some things within me. Though these reflections aren't always easy to see/hear...they are providing me insight into myself so that I can change patterns that I'm not comfortable with. I know it's sort of ambiguous, but specifics aren't important.
I'm a little leary to put this out there. So I'll do the disclaimer first. I'm pretty sensitive to issues pertaining to my girth. I joke...but that's generally so that people know that I know that I'm too fat...humor is good that way;-) I also have appropriate people in positions of accountability and encouragement...so I don't share this in the hopes that people everywhere I go will comment on my eating habits. And finally, I don't share this so that anyone will be watching for progress and feel the need to comment.
So why am I writing this? Because I'm excited about it...it's a big piece of my learning and development at this point...and maybe somehow, I can encourage others.
I hit the wall about 5 weeks ago. I've been there before, but various stresses like new children, looking for a new job, moving, etc. captured more of my attention than my health. But a little bit of margin snuck into my life, allowing me to look more closely at choices that I've been making. And I just wasn't happy. That's the wall...I've had enough. It's actually a good place to be because it motivates change much more effectively than guilt and shame.
I began a change in my eating habits. There are some things that I just don't eat anymore...maybe when I was 50 pounds lighter and much younger it was ok. They just aren't ok any more. Though I will miss some of my old friends...they weren't good friends, so I'm better off without them. So my eating is different. I'm not going to share the plan...but I do have a plan. If you want more details, let me know.
I'm also exercising 4-5 times per week. I was motivated by a friend from college (shout out to don!). He connected me with coolrunning.com and the couch-to-5k running plan. In 9 weeks, anyone can go from couch potato to running 5k without stopping. I took the challenge and am in week 6...I skipped a little because it was just too slow at first. But I'm trying to pace myself so I don't blow me knees. So far so good.
I've turned the corner to the point where I feel better on the days I run than on the days I don't. That's a good feeling and part of what makes it worth it.
Why did I do this?
1. I want to raise my own children if at all possible. I know I could still get hit by a bus, but I'm not going to let my heart stop my parenting.
2. There is no way I'm going to let Heidi marry that doctor!!! I'm keeping her for myself!!
3. There is no way I can teach about self-control and discipline if I obviously don't have much. It's a spiritual matter.
4. God gave me this body. I'm not treating it very well. Sorry about that, God.
5. I'm too cheap to by new and bigger clothes. If I get the "big boy" clothes, they cost more. I'm too cheap.
6. I work hard. I can't afford to be tired and drained in my day. I need to make too many decisions that impact people. I need to manage my energy in the most effective way possible.
So, there are many reasons. I've got goals. I've got a plan. I'm working the plan and meeting the goals. I'm encouraged...and I haven't even lost enough weight for anyone to really even notice. But I do and I keep telling Heidi every Monday when I weigh in...
Anyway...that's a bit of my life. I think I'm good with sharing that...too late now!
Peace,
Matt
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Life is...
“Life is not a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and well preserved body. But rather, to skid in sideways, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming: WOW, What A Ride!"
Got this off a friend's blog...great quote!
M@
Got this off a friend's blog...great quote!
M@
Climate Change - more
I reflected on global climate change a few posts back. I've continued to think about the issue and would like to download some of those thoughts...
- (this is a Heidi thought) It seems like the Church is getting on board with creation care stuff. For the most part, I think that's great. For example, at Northwest, we use mugs instead of styrofoam cups -- cheaper and better on creation. But the Church is never good at moderation -- she tends to drink in excess at various wells. In the past, instead of challenging Christ-followers to think about issues pertaining to alcohol, she simply said that it was sin to drink. It's possible that we may see the same thing when it comes to creation care in the future. "Do you recycle?" "No." "Hmmm...you sure you're right with God?" I can see it now...
- Earth is a big planet. The solar system is a mammoth system with wide variety and dynamic causes/effects. It's a dynamic system in which we live. There is no such thing as constant temperatures. There is pretty solid evidence to suggest that the plant was much cooler than it is now as well as much hotter than it is now. There were glaciers and tropics in Pennsylvania. Climate change is a part of life on the big blue ball.
- The questions that remain (and are attached to opinion/agendas more than science) involve the rate of climate change and the causes of said rates. There is limited capability for conclusively determining these things. And it certainly requires more than a 50 year spread of research.
- The climate change issue is still tied largely to our own comfort and ultimate preservation. I'm faily interested in my survival and that of my species, so don't get me wrong. But altuism seems to stop when the conversation turns from caring for creation to preserving the way of life as we know it now. The "big scare" from the Al Gore trailer is that we'll lose a bunch of coastline in the world. Granted, that's a huge thing...but just because people will need to move inland doesn't mean that we're all doomed. Especially in America. That is a harder venture for poor nations. But it's not really the end of the world for us to have to adjust the way we do life. And keep in mind, this is just one paragraph and simply a reflection of my personal thoughts...it's not science...it's just reflection.
- I had the chance to talk with someone who is a scientist and, though not directly involved with issues of climate change, is pretty informed and well-read on the subject because it impacts his sphere of study. In short, he knows a heck of a lot more than me and has a good basis for his opinion. I enjoyed that conversation and am glad we had it. Here are some thoughts from that conversation:
- sometimes recycling does more harm than good. I put my plastic in a blue box. It gets picked up by a guy driving a huge truck, which runs on fuel. My plastic then needst to be driven to a recycling center to be processed. How much fuel was used to trasport my plastic? What are the emissions from that truck? If I didn't recycle, they wouldn't use that extra truck and cause those extra emmissions. Is it worth it? For me, it probably is. The truck that picks up my recycling drivings less than five miles to the center. In my area, it's probably worth it. In other areas, it's probably far less worth it. It's worth thinking about. How far does your recycling have to go? Is that worth it for you?
- this guy affirmed some of my thoughts about the big earth and the dynamics that have been in play for many many years.
- sometimes we respond to creation more to make ourselves feel better than to do what is really best for creation. For example, the recycling scenario where it produces more emmissions to drive the material to the recycling center...but we feel better for putting out Sunday paper in the blue box and don't think about the impact of the big trucks that drive the stuff.
Again, these are all just thoughts and reflections. I'm not a scientist. I don't plan to make a movie or run for President. It's a conversation that I have the luxury of having because no one in my family is dying of AIDS or disentary, I have clean water to drink, and relative safety in my community.
Peace,
Matt
- (this is a Heidi thought) It seems like the Church is getting on board with creation care stuff. For the most part, I think that's great. For example, at Northwest, we use mugs instead of styrofoam cups -- cheaper and better on creation. But the Church is never good at moderation -- she tends to drink in excess at various wells. In the past, instead of challenging Christ-followers to think about issues pertaining to alcohol, she simply said that it was sin to drink. It's possible that we may see the same thing when it comes to creation care in the future. "Do you recycle?" "No." "Hmmm...you sure you're right with God?" I can see it now...
- Earth is a big planet. The solar system is a mammoth system with wide variety and dynamic causes/effects. It's a dynamic system in which we live. There is no such thing as constant temperatures. There is pretty solid evidence to suggest that the plant was much cooler than it is now as well as much hotter than it is now. There were glaciers and tropics in Pennsylvania. Climate change is a part of life on the big blue ball.
- The questions that remain (and are attached to opinion/agendas more than science) involve the rate of climate change and the causes of said rates. There is limited capability for conclusively determining these things. And it certainly requires more than a 50 year spread of research.
- The climate change issue is still tied largely to our own comfort and ultimate preservation. I'm faily interested in my survival and that of my species, so don't get me wrong. But altuism seems to stop when the conversation turns from caring for creation to preserving the way of life as we know it now. The "big scare" from the Al Gore trailer is that we'll lose a bunch of coastline in the world. Granted, that's a huge thing...but just because people will need to move inland doesn't mean that we're all doomed. Especially in America. That is a harder venture for poor nations. But it's not really the end of the world for us to have to adjust the way we do life. And keep in mind, this is just one paragraph and simply a reflection of my personal thoughts...it's not science...it's just reflection.
- I had the chance to talk with someone who is a scientist and, though not directly involved with issues of climate change, is pretty informed and well-read on the subject because it impacts his sphere of study. In short, he knows a heck of a lot more than me and has a good basis for his opinion. I enjoyed that conversation and am glad we had it. Here are some thoughts from that conversation:
- sometimes recycling does more harm than good. I put my plastic in a blue box. It gets picked up by a guy driving a huge truck, which runs on fuel. My plastic then needst to be driven to a recycling center to be processed. How much fuel was used to trasport my plastic? What are the emissions from that truck? If I didn't recycle, they wouldn't use that extra truck and cause those extra emmissions. Is it worth it? For me, it probably is. The truck that picks up my recycling drivings less than five miles to the center. In my area, it's probably worth it. In other areas, it's probably far less worth it. It's worth thinking about. How far does your recycling have to go? Is that worth it for you?
- this guy affirmed some of my thoughts about the big earth and the dynamics that have been in play for many many years.
- sometimes we respond to creation more to make ourselves feel better than to do what is really best for creation. For example, the recycling scenario where it produces more emmissions to drive the material to the recycling center...but we feel better for putting out Sunday paper in the blue box and don't think about the impact of the big trucks that drive the stuff.
Again, these are all just thoughts and reflections. I'm not a scientist. I don't plan to make a movie or run for President. It's a conversation that I have the luxury of having because no one in my family is dying of AIDS or disentary, I have clean water to drink, and relative safety in my community.
Peace,
Matt
Vacations don't exist...
Yeah, the word "vacation" has been stricken from our vocabulary. They are not just trips. Vacation carries the connotation of rest, refreshment, and down time...at least it does for me. Before we had kids, Heidi and I would vacation in Vermont -- a great little inn near Rutland. We would read, sleep, eat, walk, sit in the hot tub...and do it all over again. My pulse slows down a bit just remembering it.
But this past week was spent on the road in another kind of adventure. Heidi, Rachel (a friend from Buffalo), and the kids went to West Michigan on Friday. They spent time playing with cousins and going to the beach. After worship on Sunday, I took a train north to catch up with them.
On Tuesday, July 4, we drove across the state and Canada and arrived in Buffalo, NY in fine time. We were given the gift of staying in the house we used to own in Hamburg. The new residents are friends and were planning to be out of town for the week, so they very graciously gave us the opportunity to stay there.
The first night was very shakey. The kids didn't sleep well. The parents didn't sleep well. Frankly, we debated packing up and going home at that point...that's how rough it felt during the night. We were kept in town by our love for our friends and a golf date that I had in the morning.
The rest of the nights went better. We made some adjustments on sleeping arrangements in the 2-bedroom home. That meant that Izak and Dad slept in the living room -- Izak on the floor and Dad on the couch. Decent sleep was had by all.
We spent most of our days at the Musielak pad. Rick and Carrie are soul-mate friends. It was a gift to simply share space with them. They have 2.9 kids, who loved playing with our 3...that was fun to watch. Much swinging was done by all!
We would venture out to catch up with a few other friends. It's a pretty small group of people that we spend much time with. Not because we try to leave people out, but because we have only so much energy and time. Many people there are close to our hearts, but our capacity is limited. That's hard for me (not speaking for Heidi).
We made it to Sunday morning, when we went to Hamburg Wesleyan, where I used to serve on staff. I love the people there. I left because of God's lead, not because of any hard feelings or frustrations. Walking into the place was a bit like coming home to me.
There is a large open area...foyer...called the "fellowship mall." Heidi and I put hte kids in their classes and began to connect with people again. It was such a gift to spend those few hours quickly touching base. Offering a word of encouragement here. Receiving a word of encouragement there.
I'm not a hugger. I put that right out there when I got to Northwest...who has respected that;-) But in case Northwest-ers think I am not a hugger just for them, be assured that I've never been a hugger. No less than 200 times did someone at Hamburg say, "I know you're not a hugger, but can I...?" It made me laugh...
It is a gift to have been a part of God's work at Hamburg. It is a gift to have so many loving people who welcome us and continue to pray for us. If you're part of that group...know that you are loved, missed, and appreciated for the time we shared.
After church, we jumped in the van and made a bee-line for home. We made Chicago in just under 8 hours. Then ran into traffic -- people returning from vacations, White Sox/BoSox game, and construction. Took some time to get through all that. So we made it to our driveway in just over 9 hours...not bad at all with three kids and an unimpressive bladder (mine)!
Now comes the chore of recalibrating to life at home. We'll all be off for a few days or a week...we'll see.
It's good to be here. Do I miss my friends in Buffalo? Deeply. But even more than that is my desire to obedient to my Master. He has given me the gift of loving and being loved well in Hamburg, NY. He's giving me that opportunity now in IL. Rarely do people experience that kind of goodness in one place. I have been given that gift in many.
It's a long post. But that's the gist of what's been happening for the past week.
Peace,
Matt
But this past week was spent on the road in another kind of adventure. Heidi, Rachel (a friend from Buffalo), and the kids went to West Michigan on Friday. They spent time playing with cousins and going to the beach. After worship on Sunday, I took a train north to catch up with them.
On Tuesday, July 4, we drove across the state and Canada and arrived in Buffalo, NY in fine time. We were given the gift of staying in the house we used to own in Hamburg. The new residents are friends and were planning to be out of town for the week, so they very graciously gave us the opportunity to stay there.
The first night was very shakey. The kids didn't sleep well. The parents didn't sleep well. Frankly, we debated packing up and going home at that point...that's how rough it felt during the night. We were kept in town by our love for our friends and a golf date that I had in the morning.
The rest of the nights went better. We made some adjustments on sleeping arrangements in the 2-bedroom home. That meant that Izak and Dad slept in the living room -- Izak on the floor and Dad on the couch. Decent sleep was had by all.
We spent most of our days at the Musielak pad. Rick and Carrie are soul-mate friends. It was a gift to simply share space with them. They have 2.9 kids, who loved playing with our 3...that was fun to watch. Much swinging was done by all!
We would venture out to catch up with a few other friends. It's a pretty small group of people that we spend much time with. Not because we try to leave people out, but because we have only so much energy and time. Many people there are close to our hearts, but our capacity is limited. That's hard for me (not speaking for Heidi).
We made it to Sunday morning, when we went to Hamburg Wesleyan, where I used to serve on staff. I love the people there. I left because of God's lead, not because of any hard feelings or frustrations. Walking into the place was a bit like coming home to me.
There is a large open area...foyer...called the "fellowship mall." Heidi and I put hte kids in their classes and began to connect with people again. It was such a gift to spend those few hours quickly touching base. Offering a word of encouragement here. Receiving a word of encouragement there.
I'm not a hugger. I put that right out there when I got to Northwest...who has respected that;-) But in case Northwest-ers think I am not a hugger just for them, be assured that I've never been a hugger. No less than 200 times did someone at Hamburg say, "I know you're not a hugger, but can I...?" It made me laugh...
It is a gift to have been a part of God's work at Hamburg. It is a gift to have so many loving people who welcome us and continue to pray for us. If you're part of that group...know that you are loved, missed, and appreciated for the time we shared.
After church, we jumped in the van and made a bee-line for home. We made Chicago in just under 8 hours. Then ran into traffic -- people returning from vacations, White Sox/BoSox game, and construction. Took some time to get through all that. So we made it to our driveway in just over 9 hours...not bad at all with three kids and an unimpressive bladder (mine)!
Now comes the chore of recalibrating to life at home. We'll all be off for a few days or a week...we'll see.
It's good to be here. Do I miss my friends in Buffalo? Deeply. But even more than that is my desire to obedient to my Master. He has given me the gift of loving and being loved well in Hamburg, NY. He's giving me that opportunity now in IL. Rarely do people experience that kind of goodness in one place. I have been given that gift in many.
It's a long post. But that's the gist of what's been happening for the past week.
Peace,
Matt
Friday, June 30, 2006
family away...
Heidi and the kids (and Rache) are in Michigan tonight. They left this morning and made good time getting there. Sounds like the kids are stoked to be with the cousins again!
I'm staying back to get some work done at church and around the house. I've got tonight, tomorrow, and most of Sunday to be alone. I miss them.
It's also a good time to catch up on movies that Heidi doesn't want to see. Not sure where to begin...I think I'm going to watch X-Men and X-Men 2...can't go see 3 in the theater until I'm up to speed.
Getting some good stuff done in the office. I like getting stuff done.
Will take my first train ride ever on Sunday. Should be nice. But I like driving. Do you think they'll let me drive?
Yeah...I don't either.
See ya'
Matt
I'm staying back to get some work done at church and around the house. I've got tonight, tomorrow, and most of Sunday to be alone. I miss them.
It's also a good time to catch up on movies that Heidi doesn't want to see. Not sure where to begin...I think I'm going to watch X-Men and X-Men 2...can't go see 3 in the theater until I'm up to speed.
Getting some good stuff done in the office. I like getting stuff done.
Will take my first train ride ever on Sunday. Should be nice. But I like driving. Do you think they'll let me drive?
Yeah...I don't either.
See ya'
Matt
Tuesday, June 20, 2006
catching up...
Had a busy but nice weekend.
Spent most of Saturday celebrating the wedding of a daughter of some new friends. It was a wonderful afternoon and evening visiting, learning more about friends, and being together. The kids were at home with some of their favorite people (charlotte and the boys...sounds like a gang of some sort). That means it was time for Heidi and me to walk and hold hands, talk about whatever came to our minds, and enjoy some incredible scenery.
Sunday was Father's Day...what a nice day it was. I work on Sundays, but my family made it special for me. Izak woke me up with a tender greeting. Libby just smiles and lights up my day. And Levi...what a guy!
My wife ordered tickets for her and me to enjoy a practice round at the upcoming PGA Championship (one of the 4 majors in professional golf) which will be held near Chicago in August. It's going to be a great time together and to see some of these incredible golfers up close. I've never done that before...should be a blast.
In the evening, we enjoyed the company of most of our small group friends. We played cards, laughed, trash-talked, and laughed some more. That was refreshing...
Yesterday was a nice and full family day. I got some house stuff done and then ran errands with Z and Lib, so Heidi could tackle some of her stuff without interuption. That woman can balance a checkbook like nobody's business! To the penny!!
Today...back in the office. The guys are gone, so it's pretty much just me back here in the building. Should be a good week to study and get my head and heart into the upcoming ministry year.
That's the news here...
Peace,
M@
Spent most of Saturday celebrating the wedding of a daughter of some new friends. It was a wonderful afternoon and evening visiting, learning more about friends, and being together. The kids were at home with some of their favorite people (charlotte and the boys...sounds like a gang of some sort). That means it was time for Heidi and me to walk and hold hands, talk about whatever came to our minds, and enjoy some incredible scenery.
Sunday was Father's Day...what a nice day it was. I work on Sundays, but my family made it special for me. Izak woke me up with a tender greeting. Libby just smiles and lights up my day. And Levi...what a guy!
My wife ordered tickets for her and me to enjoy a practice round at the upcoming PGA Championship (one of the 4 majors in professional golf) which will be held near Chicago in August. It's going to be a great time together and to see some of these incredible golfers up close. I've never done that before...should be a blast.
In the evening, we enjoyed the company of most of our small group friends. We played cards, laughed, trash-talked, and laughed some more. That was refreshing...
Yesterday was a nice and full family day. I got some house stuff done and then ran errands with Z and Lib, so Heidi could tackle some of her stuff without interuption. That woman can balance a checkbook like nobody's business! To the penny!!
Today...back in the office. The guys are gone, so it's pretty much just me back here in the building. Should be a good week to study and get my head and heart into the upcoming ministry year.
That's the news here...
Peace,
M@
Wednesday, June 14, 2006
Climate Change...
Al Gore has been getting around lately. He's putting all of his energy and credibility into his recently released movie about the changing climate and the crucial reality that we need to face. He believes strongly in what he's preaching. He's committed to getting the word out that humans (Americans in specific) are bringing about incredible and destructive changes to the earth's climate that will result in catastrophe, making Katrina look like a fresh spring rain.
I've been interested to learn more about this idea. I confess that I haven't spent the kind of time and money on it that Gore has. Nor am I a researcher in this field. So I, like most of us, must rely on the inputs of people who are deemed reliable and credible sources. In learning more, I came across this piece, which is worth the read. You can link to it at: http://www.canadafreepress.com/2006/harris061206.htm
If offers a credible challenge to the theory that Gore is supporting in his movie. Again, it's worth a read.
The take-away for me on this issue is multifaceted. Personally, I want to do my part to care well for creation. That's been a growing edge for me the past 5 or 6 years. We recycle all that we can at home and at the church. Northwest is using mugs that get washed instead of styrofoam cups for coffee. I "lust" a little less over trucks and look more at a future small car that has better fuel economy -- though I make no promises that a Tacoma may not get the best of me in the future!
I also think we have important responses as a local and global worshipping community. The Church ought to be at the front of the line on caring well for creation. The one we are most passionatley in love with created it all. Think about it. If Heidi, the object of my deepest human affection, creates something...I'm pretty defensive about it. I don't let other people mess with it. I don't even want the kids to mess with it. Her "creation" is a reflection of her and I don't want that tainted.
The world around us is a reflection of God. It reflects his creativity, beauty, mercy, wonder, grandure, structure. If He is the object of our deepest affection, then why would we not want to work to protect and care for that in which He invested so much? Humans are the crown of creation, sure. But that doesn't negate the rest of it.
So I'm still growing and learning. And I'm much more inclined to continue that path out of love for the Creator versus fear, guilt, or peer pressure. Check out the article. Experience a little freedom from guilt and fear. And then go hug a tree!
Peace,
M@
I've been interested to learn more about this idea. I confess that I haven't spent the kind of time and money on it that Gore has. Nor am I a researcher in this field. So I, like most of us, must rely on the inputs of people who are deemed reliable and credible sources. In learning more, I came across this piece, which is worth the read. You can link to it at: http://www.canadafreepress.com/2006/harris061206.htm
If offers a credible challenge to the theory that Gore is supporting in his movie. Again, it's worth a read.
The take-away for me on this issue is multifaceted. Personally, I want to do my part to care well for creation. That's been a growing edge for me the past 5 or 6 years. We recycle all that we can at home and at the church. Northwest is using mugs that get washed instead of styrofoam cups for coffee. I "lust" a little less over trucks and look more at a future small car that has better fuel economy -- though I make no promises that a Tacoma may not get the best of me in the future!
I also think we have important responses as a local and global worshipping community. The Church ought to be at the front of the line on caring well for creation. The one we are most passionatley in love with created it all. Think about it. If Heidi, the object of my deepest human affection, creates something...I'm pretty defensive about it. I don't let other people mess with it. I don't even want the kids to mess with it. Her "creation" is a reflection of her and I don't want that tainted.
The world around us is a reflection of God. It reflects his creativity, beauty, mercy, wonder, grandure, structure. If He is the object of our deepest affection, then why would we not want to work to protect and care for that in which He invested so much? Humans are the crown of creation, sure. But that doesn't negate the rest of it.
So I'm still growing and learning. And I'm much more inclined to continue that path out of love for the Creator versus fear, guilt, or peer pressure. Check out the article. Experience a little freedom from guilt and fear. And then go hug a tree!
Peace,
M@
Monday, June 05, 2006
so far...so good...
Heidi is having a great time visiting friends. Sounds like her batteries are getting a much-needed re-charge...which was the point.
The kids are doing well here. We've enjoyed a couple of outings and a couple trips around the block. It's strange not having Levi here, too. I've gotten so used to the little guy being around that I keep listening for him.
Guess what we had for breakfast this morning? POPCORN!!! At least Izak did. Lib's munching on a bagel...a bit more appriate of a breakfast. But he loves it...and it's Daddy Day!!
Peace from the trenches...
M@
The kids are doing well here. We've enjoyed a couple of outings and a couple trips around the block. It's strange not having Levi here, too. I've gotten so used to the little guy being around that I keep listening for him.
Guess what we had for breakfast this morning? POPCORN!!! At least Izak did. Lib's munching on a bagel...a bit more appriate of a breakfast. But he loves it...and it's Daddy Day!!
Peace from the trenches...
M@
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Daddy Weekend...
There have been Daddy Days since Izak was born. Well, we're upgrading this weekend. It's going to be a Daddy Weekend! Heidi and her 8-month-old appendage are heading out of town for 48 hours, beginning Sunday morning.
Yeah, it's a little crazy to think about Sunday am flying solo. But I figure I might as well give it a run sometime, right? If Heidi is ever to be involved in the worship gathering, then I need to learn what it feels like to get the kids there in the morning, since she'd need to be there early, too.
I'm a little nervous about getting to church about 20 minutes prior to it beginning...I'm used to be there a couple hours ahead. That just means I need to get my head and heart ready tonight instead of counting on that time in the morning. I can do it.
Then the rest of the day we will play, nap a bit (maybe) and then slide into bed for a quiet night. And unicorns, Big Foot, and Nessie all exist, too!
It's been quite a week. We're doing interviews at Northwest for a Youth Pastor. Can't tip my hat here since there are no final decisions at this point. Keep posted...we hope to make a decision this week. It's a big deal on many fronts. And it's certainly been an opportunity for God to grow our (the other leaders and me) faith...and that's a good thing.
In this and other situations, I'm learning to trust and walk by faith...even when I don't know what even the next step is supposed to look like. Again, that good. That 's how faith is grown and developed. It's just not comfortable. I guess that's the point.
Heading to bed.
peace,
M@
Yeah, it's a little crazy to think about Sunday am flying solo. But I figure I might as well give it a run sometime, right? If Heidi is ever to be involved in the worship gathering, then I need to learn what it feels like to get the kids there in the morning, since she'd need to be there early, too.
I'm a little nervous about getting to church about 20 minutes prior to it beginning...I'm used to be there a couple hours ahead. That just means I need to get my head and heart ready tonight instead of counting on that time in the morning. I can do it.
Then the rest of the day we will play, nap a bit (maybe) and then slide into bed for a quiet night. And unicorns, Big Foot, and Nessie all exist, too!
It's been quite a week. We're doing interviews at Northwest for a Youth Pastor. Can't tip my hat here since there are no final decisions at this point. Keep posted...we hope to make a decision this week. It's a big deal on many fronts. And it's certainly been an opportunity for God to grow our (the other leaders and me) faith...and that's a good thing.
In this and other situations, I'm learning to trust and walk by faith...even when I don't know what even the next step is supposed to look like. Again, that good. That 's how faith is grown and developed. It's just not comfortable. I guess that's the point.
Heading to bed.
peace,
M@
Thursday, June 01, 2006
still here...
I didn't realize it's been this long since I posted. I guess the words about Heidi are a great way to leave it hanging for a couple weeks.
Life has been pretty intense lately. I'm not exactly sure what I'm supposed to be learning...I think it has to do with trusting God even when it doesn't feel good. I also think I'm supposed to be learning to give thanks for the challenges -- not in spite of them, but for them. That idea scraped across my mind last night and I'm still processing it a bit. Probably worth a post or two in the near future.
I was thinking about blogging the other day. When I began, I was an assistant pastor at a large church...I didn't get many opportunities to speak. Now, I'm the lead pastor at a smaller church and I speak/teach weekly, at least. I don't think it spells the end of blogging, but I may account for some of the longer stretches between posts...I have other outlets for thoughts and ideas. Anyway...
Heidi and I are heading out together tonight. The monkeys are all in bed and (relatively) quiet. Will be nice to have some focused time with her. Ms. B called and asked if she could come over so we could get out -- what an incredible gift! Thanks, Ms. B.
Peace,
M@
Life has been pretty intense lately. I'm not exactly sure what I'm supposed to be learning...I think it has to do with trusting God even when it doesn't feel good. I also think I'm supposed to be learning to give thanks for the challenges -- not in spite of them, but for them. That idea scraped across my mind last night and I'm still processing it a bit. Probably worth a post or two in the near future.
I was thinking about blogging the other day. When I began, I was an assistant pastor at a large church...I didn't get many opportunities to speak. Now, I'm the lead pastor at a smaller church and I speak/teach weekly, at least. I don't think it spells the end of blogging, but I may account for some of the longer stretches between posts...I have other outlets for thoughts and ideas. Anyway...
Heidi and I are heading out together tonight. The monkeys are all in bed and (relatively) quiet. Will be nice to have some focused time with her. Ms. B called and asked if she could come over so we could get out -- what an incredible gift! Thanks, Ms. B.
Peace,
M@
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
My Wife...
I have an amazing wife. Really...I do. If you know her, you have gotten a glimpse of that and would agree. But I know her more than any other person in this world. After 11 years of marriage, I know her better than her sister and mother and father and...anyone. Not because I'm so special or discerning (I am a man, you know), but because she has chosen to share herself with me. What a gift!
- I am continually amazed at her strength and fortitude as a mother. No matter how tired she is (she hasn't slept more than 3 full nights in the past 4 years, if that) she digs down deep and does what she needs to do to serve the kids and me. She gets up in the middle of the night to comfort a teething toddler. She takes the time to discipline a growing boy when it would be so much easier to just let it slide -- but that doesn't help him, does it? When she gets to the end, there is just a little bit more to give.
- I am honored by the respect that she gives me. She has more brain power than I could hope for. She is gifted and skilled to the hilt. Yet she respects me. And she tells me so. She knows the power of her words and how she communicates love and respect. That power is huge!
- I love to hear her sing. When she sings praise to our God, it's amazing to hear. She's got muscial skill, that's for sure. But in worship, she has a gift. I have benefited more than anyone else from that.
- Her laugh is infectious. She loves to laugh. A witty line. Someone falling down or getting startled. Physical humor is her favorite. Her eyes light up and the room fills with her laugh.
- Her tender touch is beyond amazing. I have known that touch as she gently rubs my shoulders or plays with my hair...even just holding her hand. I have seen the effects of that magical touch as she holds a crying child who is throwing up. One gentle touch and everything seems to be ok. I think that's one of the things that makes her a wonderful and sought-after nurse.
- She loves Jesus. She trusts him. She chases after him. She would rather give up the closeness of her soul-mate friends and move to another part of the country than disobey him. Her life is a reflection of love and obedience working together.
- She uses her words well. She asks a good question and helps a friend process a challenging situation. She offers some discerning insight and brings clarity to a confusing situation. She challenges my heart in a matter, and helps keep me soft before God. Words have power. She wields her power well.
Those are just a few of the things that I've learned and love about Heidi. And we've really only begun this journey together. There will be more teething, diapers, flu bugs, school meetings, worship gatherings, vacations, soccer games, football games, graduations, military graduations, disappointements, celebrations...more life to come. And I get the honor to join hands with this amazing woman and walk through life with her.
My Beloved...you are a treasure to me...
Matthew
- I am continually amazed at her strength and fortitude as a mother. No matter how tired she is (she hasn't slept more than 3 full nights in the past 4 years, if that) she digs down deep and does what she needs to do to serve the kids and me. She gets up in the middle of the night to comfort a teething toddler. She takes the time to discipline a growing boy when it would be so much easier to just let it slide -- but that doesn't help him, does it? When she gets to the end, there is just a little bit more to give.
- I am honored by the respect that she gives me. She has more brain power than I could hope for. She is gifted and skilled to the hilt. Yet she respects me. And she tells me so. She knows the power of her words and how she communicates love and respect. That power is huge!
- I love to hear her sing. When she sings praise to our God, it's amazing to hear. She's got muscial skill, that's for sure. But in worship, she has a gift. I have benefited more than anyone else from that.
- Her laugh is infectious. She loves to laugh. A witty line. Someone falling down or getting startled. Physical humor is her favorite. Her eyes light up and the room fills with her laugh.
- Her tender touch is beyond amazing. I have known that touch as she gently rubs my shoulders or plays with my hair...even just holding her hand. I have seen the effects of that magical touch as she holds a crying child who is throwing up. One gentle touch and everything seems to be ok. I think that's one of the things that makes her a wonderful and sought-after nurse.
- She loves Jesus. She trusts him. She chases after him. She would rather give up the closeness of her soul-mate friends and move to another part of the country than disobey him. Her life is a reflection of love and obedience working together.
- She uses her words well. She asks a good question and helps a friend process a challenging situation. She offers some discerning insight and brings clarity to a confusing situation. She challenges my heart in a matter, and helps keep me soft before God. Words have power. She wields her power well.
Those are just a few of the things that I've learned and love about Heidi. And we've really only begun this journey together. There will be more teething, diapers, flu bugs, school meetings, worship gatherings, vacations, soccer games, football games, graduations, military graduations, disappointements, celebrations...more life to come. And I get the honor to join hands with this amazing woman and walk through life with her.
My Beloved...you are a treasure to me...
Matthew
I'd rather...
...be going through challenging situations with the Spirit near by than smooth sailing with no need for Him.
That's a great explanation to the question, "How are you doing?" Could just say, "Fine." But that just doesn't cover all the right bases.
In the past couple of months, God has shown me a bit more of himself than I have ever known before. Seriously. God. Incredible.
In that, I have found amazing comfort and peace in His nearness. Just being near. Like knowing Heidi is close by. I don't even need her to say anything...just reaching over and knowing she's close is comforting. I've found the same with the Spirit of God.
Are some of these challenges hard? Some of the hardest I've faced. But He is near. He is wise. He is strong. Therefore, so am I.
Peace,
Matt
That's a great explanation to the question, "How are you doing?" Could just say, "Fine." But that just doesn't cover all the right bases.
In the past couple of months, God has shown me a bit more of himself than I have ever known before. Seriously. God. Incredible.
In that, I have found amazing comfort and peace in His nearness. Just being near. Like knowing Heidi is close by. I don't even need her to say anything...just reaching over and knowing she's close is comforting. I've found the same with the Spirit of God.
Are some of these challenges hard? Some of the hardest I've faced. But He is near. He is wise. He is strong. Therefore, so am I.
Peace,
Matt
Saturday, May 13, 2006
What a week!!
Wow...that one was a doosey!! Here are some of my reflections on this past week...
- There are some pretty intense things going on at Northwest. I could not be more excited about what God is up to. People are really experiencing His presence in profound and powerful ways. I'm including myself in that, which is incredible!
- The kids have had a nasty virus for over a week. Izak woke up last Sunday with a mighty yak! And he didn't stop for several days. He got very bad. I've never seen him that flacid and weak. Heidi processed that really well on her blog...check it out. It was a scary time.
He landed in the hospital for two days and one night. I got to stay with him over most of that, since Levi also started yakking and filling nasty diapers...he needed Mom to be near even more than Izak did. It was an honor for me to simply be with my son while he recovered. I hope and pray that at some level, he experienced a bonding with Daddy that he will draw on as he gets olders.
One of the thoughts that I had during this ordeal was: Izak gets to live because he's my son. Because he was born into my family, in the US, he gets to live. Had he been born into a family in rural Africa or India or so many other poor countries, he would have died from this virus. Some people make a great deal about how much America sucks. I know we're not perfect...but I get to laugh with my son today because we live in America. I'm thankful for that. On the flip side, I'm also not ok with people dying from a virus like this...what can I/we do to help bring about a new reality to people around the world? I think there is much...we can give generously to organizations that are on the ground in other countries doing the hard work. We have so much that we do not need...it's time to share.
- It's important to me to be a solid Daddy. I wear that name as a badge of honor. As much as I love my work and am passionate about serving Jesus, I love my family deeply and am thankful for opportunities like this past week to put feet on that heart.
- Rick is in town for a few days. Rick is a soul-mate friend from Buffalo. He is a gift to me. He encourages and humbles. We laugh together in ways that should be illegal (should be...but aren't!) Our wives are so incredible, they are making a way for us to golf together. So he's in town this weekend and we'll golf at least 3 times, it not 4. He'll also kick my butt in pool a bit, too. God's timing in bringing him here this weekend is perfect.
- DaVinci Code comes out this week. So many different reactions to this book and movie. I read the book a while back. I like Tom Hanks, so I'll probably watch the movie at some point. I think people often react out of two things: fear or idolatry of the Bible. We don't need to fear that someone is going to prove the bible false, thus undermining my faith. We don't need to fear. Because (and this leads to the second part) our faith is not based in the text, but in the person revealed in the text, Jesus. Even if it was empiracally proven (which I don't think it ever will be) that the Bible is historically inaccurate, my faith would still remain strong in the person of Jesus. How? If the text is not accurate, how can I know? The Spirit. God gave us His Spirit which leads us and guides us. Is the Bible important? It's huge. But it's not bigger than Jesus. And sometimes people act as if the bible is more important that being a passionate follower of Jesus. Passionately loving Jesus brings one to the text.
I'm talking a bit about this during worship on Sunday. Should be an interesting message. It will be different sort of flavor than normal, but a change is good now and then. I'm looking forward to it.
That's the scoop.
Peace,
M@
- There are some pretty intense things going on at Northwest. I could not be more excited about what God is up to. People are really experiencing His presence in profound and powerful ways. I'm including myself in that, which is incredible!
- The kids have had a nasty virus for over a week. Izak woke up last Sunday with a mighty yak! And he didn't stop for several days. He got very bad. I've never seen him that flacid and weak. Heidi processed that really well on her blog...check it out. It was a scary time.
He landed in the hospital for two days and one night. I got to stay with him over most of that, since Levi also started yakking and filling nasty diapers...he needed Mom to be near even more than Izak did. It was an honor for me to simply be with my son while he recovered. I hope and pray that at some level, he experienced a bonding with Daddy that he will draw on as he gets olders.
One of the thoughts that I had during this ordeal was: Izak gets to live because he's my son. Because he was born into my family, in the US, he gets to live. Had he been born into a family in rural Africa or India or so many other poor countries, he would have died from this virus. Some people make a great deal about how much America sucks. I know we're not perfect...but I get to laugh with my son today because we live in America. I'm thankful for that. On the flip side, I'm also not ok with people dying from a virus like this...what can I/we do to help bring about a new reality to people around the world? I think there is much...we can give generously to organizations that are on the ground in other countries doing the hard work. We have so much that we do not need...it's time to share.
- It's important to me to be a solid Daddy. I wear that name as a badge of honor. As much as I love my work and am passionate about serving Jesus, I love my family deeply and am thankful for opportunities like this past week to put feet on that heart.
- Rick is in town for a few days. Rick is a soul-mate friend from Buffalo. He is a gift to me. He encourages and humbles. We laugh together in ways that should be illegal (should be...but aren't!) Our wives are so incredible, they are making a way for us to golf together. So he's in town this weekend and we'll golf at least 3 times, it not 4. He'll also kick my butt in pool a bit, too. God's timing in bringing him here this weekend is perfect.
- DaVinci Code comes out this week. So many different reactions to this book and movie. I read the book a while back. I like Tom Hanks, so I'll probably watch the movie at some point. I think people often react out of two things: fear or idolatry of the Bible. We don't need to fear that someone is going to prove the bible false, thus undermining my faith. We don't need to fear. Because (and this leads to the second part) our faith is not based in the text, but in the person revealed in the text, Jesus. Even if it was empiracally proven (which I don't think it ever will be) that the Bible is historically inaccurate, my faith would still remain strong in the person of Jesus. How? If the text is not accurate, how can I know? The Spirit. God gave us His Spirit which leads us and guides us. Is the Bible important? It's huge. But it's not bigger than Jesus. And sometimes people act as if the bible is more important that being a passionate follower of Jesus. Passionately loving Jesus brings one to the text.
I'm talking a bit about this during worship on Sunday. Should be an interesting message. It will be different sort of flavor than normal, but a change is good now and then. I'm looking forward to it.
That's the scoop.
Peace,
M@
Sunday, May 07, 2006
Sunday night...
Not a very creative title to a blog, I know. But that's about what I have tonight. I'm about as drained as I can remember ever being. But at the same time, my spirit is in a great place. Body weak. Spirit strong.
Izak woke up this morning with a mighty yak. So Heidi won another day at home with the kids. She doesn't complain at all, though it's got to be intense. What an incredible lady! That's why Mother's Day is so big!
Libby started yakking again, too. Two out of three. The day is just getting better. Levi seems to be ok...for now.
At the moment, all the kids are down for the night. Heidi is at Small Group...a little chance to get out and hang with big people. And I've got the quiet house to myself.
Rick, a soul-mate of a friend, is coming out next weekend. We're going to get a few rounds of golf in. Golf is our haven together. There's nothing like a day on the course with Rick. He's a gift to me. It's perfect timing for some time together. I miss him. And in challenging times, he's a good friend to simply talk things through. He knows me well enough to not let me get away with anything. And he's encouraging and builds me up at the same time. Friends like that are a gift.
That's the scoop from here...
Peace,
Matt
Izak woke up this morning with a mighty yak. So Heidi won another day at home with the kids. She doesn't complain at all, though it's got to be intense. What an incredible lady! That's why Mother's Day is so big!
Libby started yakking again, too. Two out of three. The day is just getting better. Levi seems to be ok...for now.
At the moment, all the kids are down for the night. Heidi is at Small Group...a little chance to get out and hang with big people. And I've got the quiet house to myself.
Rick, a soul-mate of a friend, is coming out next weekend. We're going to get a few rounds of golf in. Golf is our haven together. There's nothing like a day on the course with Rick. He's a gift to me. It's perfect timing for some time together. I miss him. And in challenging times, he's a good friend to simply talk things through. He knows me well enough to not let me get away with anything. And he's encouraging and builds me up at the same time. Friends like that are a gift.
That's the scoop from here...
Peace,
Matt
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
blank stare...
I find that by the time I get to 7pm, all I've got left in me is enough energy to muster up a blank stare...not much else these days.
Some challenging things going on in my world. The challenges aren't fun. But what is fun is seeing God be so faithful in providing wisdom, courage, strength, and grace. I'm learning that I'm a sucker for redemption...
Redemption is an incredible thing, really. Even for my tin cans, I can get $.05 for giving them my garbage...not a bad deal. But even more than a nickel, God is all about redemption. No matter what we put on His plate, He's out to put value on it and make it good. It's not so much that he makes the bad stuff good, but that he turns it around, like spiritual ti-kwon-do. And he turns it into something that brings Him glory. I love that. I love to hear stories of redemption. I love to be a part of that process in the lives of people. I'm absolutely hooked on it.
That fact means that I also set myself up for disappointment...alot. I believe the best in people. I root for people. I make myself vulnerable. I'm a sucker.
But for that one time when it happens...when all the people involved submit to the leadership of Jesus...man...you just can't beat it!
Peace,
Matt
Some challenging things going on in my world. The challenges aren't fun. But what is fun is seeing God be so faithful in providing wisdom, courage, strength, and grace. I'm learning that I'm a sucker for redemption...
Redemption is an incredible thing, really. Even for my tin cans, I can get $.05 for giving them my garbage...not a bad deal. But even more than a nickel, God is all about redemption. No matter what we put on His plate, He's out to put value on it and make it good. It's not so much that he makes the bad stuff good, but that he turns it around, like spiritual ti-kwon-do. And he turns it into something that brings Him glory. I love that. I love to hear stories of redemption. I love to be a part of that process in the lives of people. I'm absolutely hooked on it.
That fact means that I also set myself up for disappointment...alot. I believe the best in people. I root for people. I make myself vulnerable. I'm a sucker.
But for that one time when it happens...when all the people involved submit to the leadership of Jesus...man...you just can't beat it!
Peace,
Matt
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
