TSOC 121210 Prophetic Poetry or Poetic Prophecy
3rd Sunday of Advent
December 12, 2010
Peter sings,
“Dry deserts turn from sand to bloom
The earth a sudden fragrant room”
The children of Israel needed some re-orientation and it all happens in Isaiah 35.
The day was coming when there was going to be a homecoming. After having lost everything, their land, their homes, their culture and their temple they were now going to get to come back home.
The word which was spoken to them was full of grace and hope,
“3Strengthen the weak hands,
and make firm the feeble knees.
4Say to those who are of a fearful heart,
"Be strong, do not fear!
Here is your God.
He will come with vengeance,
with terrible recompense.
He will come and save you."
One of the blessings of being a child of God is that people let you into their lives. You know this from your personal experiences. When people are aware that you go to church, that you read the Bible, that you are spiritual and that you pray while attempting to do good things the end result is they see you in a certain way. And when they find themselves in a situation or in a predicament they issue you an invitation to listen to what’s going on in their life. God’s Spirit hovers over these caring conversations and all we need to do is be present.
We all know folks who have “weak hands” or “feeble knees” or a “fearful heart.” And the prophet Isaiah reminds us that all we need to say or do is simply, “Be strong, do not fear!” It’s poetic prophecy or prophetic poetry.
For the time is coming when 5Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened,
and the ears of the deaf unstopped;
6then the lame shall leap like a deer,
and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy.
Eyes are opened
Ears now hear
People in wheelchairs and those who have prosthetics will dance with the Stars
Those who haven’t been able to talk aren’t going be able to stop talking about what God has done for them.
Not only will people be changed, but all of creation- there is a grand reversal of fortunes:
For waters shall break forth in the wilderness,
and streams in the desert;
7the burning sand shall become a pool,
and the thirsty ground springs of water;
the haunt of jackals shall become a swamp,
the grass shall become reeds and rushes.
What was just mile and mile of sand has now become beachfront property
There will be water skiing and alls sorts of Water World activities
The places and spaces were there was nothing but dust and cactus will now
look like the botanical gardens.
Peter sings,
“Dry deserts turn from sand to bloom
The earth a sudden fragrant room”
8A highway shall be there,
and it shall be called the Holy Way;
the unclean shall not travel on it,
but it shall be for God's people;
no traveler, not even fools, shall go astray.
9No lion shall be there,
nor shall any ravenous beast come up on it;
they shall not be found there,
but the redeemed shall walk there.
10And the ransomed of the LORD shall return,
and come to Zion with singing;
everlasting joy shall be upon their heads;
they shall obtain joy and gladness,
and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.
The One who called himself, the Way, the Truth and the Life will join us on the journey.
We remember the promise of the psalmist, “thy word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” There won’t be any sorrow, but joy and happiness 24X7.
Now that’s something that’s worth singing about!
It’s all part of the story of Christmas.
Peter sings, “From a raindrop to a river
from one lonesome word a song
Source of all gifts,
Friend and forgiver
Bring us together,
Pass it on”
Here’s something to think about this Christmas as you participate in the story of Christmas. When you go to the grocery store be sure to pick up some extra canned goods (be sure also to pay for them) and then take them to church or a local agency. If you are thinking about what you need to pick-up, why not get some canned fruit? Our good friends at Metro CareRing www.metrocarering.org have a list of items that are always needed: Here is their TOP TEN LIST!
1. Hearty Soup (Meat or Vegetarian)
2. Canned Meat (Tuna, Chili, Chicken or Ham)
3. Canned Cooked Beans (pinto, black, refried)
4. Peanut Butter
5. Canned Mixed Vegetables
6. Canned Fruit
7. Canned Tomatoes
8. Whole grain pasta
9. Pasta Sauce
10. Diapers
You might be saying to yourself, “self, what does my one can or half dozen of cans mean among so much hunger and need?” Well, check this out. The following story is in all FOUR gospels, Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:31-44; Luke 9:10-17; and John 6:5-15. There was a young boy with five pieces of sushi and two bagels. Jesus received his offering and fed more than 5,000 people.
Peter sings about this miracle,
“From a raindrop to a river
from one lonesome word a song
Source of all gifts,
Friend and forgiver
Bring us together,
Pass it on”
TSOC 121010 A is for Angel
December 10, 2010
Friday
Lighthearted by Delia Stewart
Peter sings, “A is for Angel, that’s where we start
A is for Angel, took hold of my heart”
Thursday is my day off. Now, I know that may sound strange to some of you that pastors take days off, but we do. Actually, I truly believe that the better boundaries clergy have the healthier they are (as well as their families and congregations, too.) Just like for many of you, some days off are better than others. Yesterday was a day of errands. I did some minor household things and a little Christmas shopping. However, nothing exciting took place. It was just a plain, routine, average day. I also walked around Wash Park in the mid-afternoon.
Our daughter Hannah Grace has a picture/plaque in her room (she lives in Minneapolis, but has space here) with the following quote from Hebrews 13:2. “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.” Those words always make me stop and think. Hannah has very much embraced those words into her life as she meets and greets everyone with respect and kindness.
I like those words because they remind me that there is more than meets the eye. Often we think we know exactly what is happening when in reality there is more taking place than we are aware. The person we don’t make eye contact “sees” that we are afraid or offended by them. I don’t perceive myself to be a wealthy person, but I know that I am privileged beyond the dreams of most people in the world. I recognize there are people who are hungry, hurting and alone. Wouldn’t it be wild if we acknowledged those around us as the angels that they could very possibly be? Their message, their mission might be
to “lighten” our hearts from being burden by worries, concerns and doubt.
Peter sings, “A is for Angel, that’s where we start
A is for Angel, took hold of my heart”
So today’s assignment is simple, “Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.”
It’s all part of the story of Christmas,
Joyfully,
rtg
TSOC 120910 Walking to the Sun
December 9, 2010
Thursday
Peter sings, “Rising up falling down goin’ round in ageless circles
Spotlight upstaging all our wanderings
Chasing and dreams and desires
They don’t know the distance from the fire
It shines on everyone
Walking to the sun”
Peter and I were in the Kansas City area in October to do some singing and Bible study. Now, I need to clarify that in the division of labor between us, Peter does all the singing and also some Bible study. Whereas, music lovers and music critics have asked me to focus my attention on Bible study. We were graciously hosted at the Hollis Retreat Center http://www.holliscenter.org/
As you can see in the picture above Peter was “goin’ round in ageless circles.”
In the sermon she talked about getting from one place to another place. Sometimes it seems like “we can’t get there from here.” Isn’t that the truth? In the story of Christmas we like Mary and Joseph make our way through the highways and byways of our time, culture, background and situations. We go forward in this process of faith by walking, taking it one step at a time.
This past year, five of my buddies from church joined me in training for and then successfully completing the Denver Marathon. (Standing ovation). You can see a picture of our happy team at http://revup-rtg.blogspot.com/
Andrea, Bob, Brenda, Sarah, Mark and myself trained all summer in order that we might be able to achieve our goal. We named our team, “Faithful Soles.”
I’ve learned many lessons in doing marathon walking. But, probably the most important thing I’ve learned along the way is how grand it is to have “walking buddies.” The take home lesson for today is to find and relish an “Advent Accompanist” someone who walks and talks with you along the way.
In this story of Christmas, we’re walking to the sun, with the Son!
TSOC 120810 Echoes of Stories
Wednesday
December 8, 2010
Peter sings, “The song of an angel, good cheer to a stranger
The ones you’ve known all the way
Coming back to the heart of the matter to scatter the whistles and
bells
You’re telling the story of Christmas”
I’ve been out making home visits during these days before Christmas. I must tell you that I am always humbled by the faithful stories told by parishioners. I told my colleague Pastor Ruth Ann today that listening to these stories makes me feel like an archeologist of narratives. That during a conversation broken bits and pieces of stories are dug up, revealed and examined. It is as if these “shards” get discovered and re-discovered again and again in light of the story of Christmas. We then analyze our story while hearing echoes of God’s amazing love story for us.
Sometimes the stories wander here and there. In other words there are subplots and sub-themes that don’t readily appear to be connected to the original narrative. But, usually after a few twists and turns we find ourselves back on track while the story continues.
It is as Peter sings, “Coming back to the heart of the matter to scatter the whistles and
bells.”
I’ve been thinking and praying a lot these days about the “heart of the matter.” Another way of saying that is to reflect on what is really, I mean really, really important. As we participate in the days of Advent it is a priority to be intentionally in touch with one’s values, priorities and goals.
I remained convinced that the “heart of the matter” is when it comes to the heart of God that humans really matter! This isn’t fiction. This isn’t just a little fable. But, rather God has totally wrapped God’s self up in the story of Christmas.
TSOC 120710 Good Smiles
December 7, 2010
Tuesday
+Ambrose+, Bishop of Milan, died 397
Peter sings, “A year full of meanwhiles, hard times, good smiles
Suddenly the yuletide is near
Creeps in quietly, soon undeniably catches your heart
You’re part of the story of Christmas”
“Tempus fugit” in other words “time flies.” Sue Ann and I have already said to each other a zillion times this month, “can you believe it is December?” It certainly has
crept “in quietly.” Another saying about “time” which is often repeated is “Time heals all wounds.” I know that this is partially true. It does appear that sometimes the distance of time does seem to help reduce the pain, animosity and shame associated with a particular injury or hurtful event. At the same time I have known and experienced people who are able to hold onto their intense anger and pain for many, many years. I believe that God grants and dispenses a “holy amnesia” which enables humans to be able to forgive, simply because when we “remember” what has been done for us in Christ on the cross, we then have energy and impetus to “forgive.”
Today, December 7th is a day marked in time. Having been born in 1954, I am also old enough and young enough to remember the “infamy of this day, December 7, 1941. My father, Frank along with thousands of women and men fought in WWII as the “greatest generation” lived out their calling.
On internship from seminary, Sue Ann and I were able to purchase our first new car. The list price was less than $4,000. (We have almost paid that much for a new computer).
I can remember being criticized by someone at the church I served because Sue Ann and I drove an “import” a Toyota from Japan. This took place almost 40 years after December 1941. The person’s feelings were intense and real. I am not criticizing that person for what they said or felt. Nor is it my intention to minimize the horror and devastation of war. My goal is to help communicate the “peace of God that passes all understanding.”
For I know that we, you and I hold onto grudges and pain from the past, but in the final analysis those feelings and thoughts create a powerful “hold” on us. Advent is a time of year in the story of Christmas to move on through our heartaches and heartbrakes.
Ambrose, a servant of the church died on this day many years ago. He is attributed to having written the words to the hymn, “Savior of the Nations Come.” I am particularly taken by the second verse of the hymn:
Not by human flesh and blood,
but the mystic Breath of God,
was the Word of God made flesh,
fruit of woman, blossom fresh.
There is something about the “mystic Breath of God.” The Bible reminds us again and again that God speaks and something, someone, HAPPENS!
Peter sings, “A year full of meanwhiles, hard times, good smiles
Suddenly the yuletide is near
Creeps in quietly, soon undeniably catches your heart
You’re part of the story of Christmas”
I pray today that what “catches your heart” is forgiveness, love, hope and peace.
The silly picture of me in the Kitchen at Camp Arcadia hopefully “stirs up” some laughter in you. May we “taste and see” that the Lord is good!
TSOC 120610 Blue River
Monday
December 6, 2010
+Nicholas+, Bishop of Myra, died around 342
Peter sings, “You can run
You can hide
You can die of thirst
By the riverside
Don’t leave me out
On the Blue River”
Advent is the season for waiting, watching, wanting, waking up and walking into the story of Christmas. We are searching and hunting for the real deal. Most people I know want their life to have meaning, purpose and authenticity. So, we are on a quest, a search
for the One who makes us whole and complete.
Peter’s song, Blue River documents the process of looking for love. His words are in alignment with a song written about 3,000 years ago. Psalm 42 goes like this,
“As a deer longs for flowing streams,
so my soul longs for you, O God.
2My soul thirsts for God,
for the living God.
When shall I come and behold
the face of God?”
In the story of Christmas there are places and spaces along the way that can be an oasis or that can be a mirage. Today as you look for a “Blue River” to nourish you soul, I invite you to be mindful of how you can serve God with the gifts you’ve been given.
John the Baptist used his gifts to be an “alarm clock” to rouse people from their sleep.
St. Nicholas used his gifts to seek out and serve those who were lost, imprisoned and excluded from the party. What is your particular gift that you bring to the story of Christmas? I know you know what it is. So, share it!
TSOC 120510 A Song to Remind You
2nd Sunday of Advent
December 5, 2010
Peter sings, “Joyful day
A star to guide you, a song to remind you
The Joy will stay
Long past the turn of the page
In the story of Christmas”
This morning congregations all over the world will hear a gospel lesson (Matthew 3:1-12) featuring the advent antics of a character called John the Baptist. Now, I know that some people wish his name was John the Methodist or John the Lutheran, but that’s just the way the story goes. Anyway, John the Baptist would do well in today’s world of sound bytes and Sunday morning talk shows. His message was full of conflict, warnings, and doom with a little bit of gloom sprinkled in for flavor. He was a combination of the following: Glenn Beck; Keith Olbermann; Jon Stewart; and Ann Coulter (in other words, he always had something to offend just about everyone!)
He didn’t have a church building or auditorium. Rather, he spoke on the banks of the river. His message was clear, concise and demanding,
"You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? 8Bear fruit worthy of repentance. 9Do not presume to say to yourselves, 'We have Abraham as our ancestor'; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. 10Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
One of the gifts that I believe the Lutheran lens of theology brings to reading Scripture is the distinction between Law and Gospel. Some folks define the “Law” as what God declares we need to do. At the same time, some folks define “Gospel” as the Good News of what has been done for us in the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. (Now, I know this is kinda heavy stuff for a Sunday morning, with coffee, bagels and your ipad in front of you).
So, we do well to hear the Law and pay attention to it. But, what is very key and important to remember is that neither John the Baptist nor the Law is God’s final word to us. Fortunately, Jesus and the Gospel is what we focus our hearts, souls and minds on as we go through the story of Christmas.
Peter sings, “A song to remind you.” God has always been in the business of love songs.
There is a “chain of love” in this story of Christmas. You and I are connected, in fact linked to each other because of what has been done for us.
As we begin our 2nd week of this journey give thanks for the song that reminds us of what it is all about. As St. Paul and the Beatles sang, “all you need is love.”
Joyfully,
Rtg
A Text Message from St. Paul to the Corinthians:
If I speak in the tongues of mortals and of angels, but do not have love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. 2And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3If I give away all my possessions, and if I hand over my body so that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.
4Love is patient; love is kind; love is not envious or boastful or arrogant 5or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6it does not rejoice in wrongdoing, but rejoices in the truth. 7It bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.
8Love never ends. But as for prophecies, they will come to an end; as for tongues, they will cease; as for knowledge, it will come to an end. 9For we know only in part, and we prophesy only in part; 10but when the complete comes, the partial will come to an end. 11When I was a child, I spoke like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child; when I became an adult, I put an end to childish ways. 12For now we see in a mirror, dimly, but then we will see face to face. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known. 13And now faith, hope, and love abide, these three; and the greatest of these is love.
TSOC 120410 Star View
December 4, 2010
Saturday
+John of Damascus +, theologian and hymnwriter, died around 749
Peter sings,
“Joyful day
A star to guide you, a song to remind you
The Joy will stay
Long past the turn of the page
In the story of Christmas”
On Tuesday several members of our staff participated in a group activity at the LDS Canning facility in Aurora. Under the able guidance and mentoring of canning personnel and along with some other wonderful volunteers from Metro CareRing donated apples were made into applesauce. We did it all from sorting apples to boxing up the finished product.
I am mindful of Father Dom’s words about bruised bananas in his marvelous book, Bake and Be Blessed. Those words have influenced my view of the bruised and tired apples which were in the large wooden containers. There was an abundance of apples in an orchard in the State of Washington. Somehow, someway via FEEDING AMERICA they found their way to Colorado. Some were bruised, brown and decomposing at a pretty quick rate. Some of us had the job of sorting “good apples” from “bad apples.” Having been a “bad apple” at times, I could readily recognize others. A few apples were well on their way to becoming “apple cider.” Teamwork, guidance, ingenuity and hard work brought about the result of applesauce. In other words there is always a way for the people of God to repurpose, to redeem and to recollect what others might throw away. Father Dom makes the excellent point that sometimes we treat people the way we treat fruit which has been bruised or banged up just a bit. God graciously gives us the vision to see more than what we initially look at with a first glance.
Thank goodness, thank God, that Advent is full of times to be blessed with a STAR VIEW of living. If you slice an apple in a lengthwise (the traditional way) you just cut the apple in half. However, if you cut it sideways you can see a STAR. It all depends how you look at it.
Peter sings,
“Joyful day
A star to guide you, a song to remind you
The Joy will stay
Long past the turn of the page
In the story of Christmas”
Let the STAR VIEW guide you today.
Joyfully,
Rtg
PS
A good friend of h2odevos, Nancy Bond serves in the country of Ghana. Here is a recent note from her:
Hi Pastor Ron,
We have a STAR program here at Rafiki Village Ghana! Our STAR (Story Time At Rafiki) is a favorite for our now 114 children. (Four new orphans arrived last Saturday).
Short term missionaries or our American staff read books to a cottage of children including moms. Afternoons at four pm, a cottage of boys or girls file into the dining hall, sit down quietly, and listen well to books chosen by the missionaries. Melinda (not my daughter) was here recently. Her favorite task was STAR in the afternoon.
Thanks for the H20 devos. They are an encouragement! They are a daily reminder that my favorite story is on its way…Christmas!
Yes, joyfully,
Nancy
TSOC 120310 Sparks
December 3, 2010
Friday
+Francis Xavier, missionary to Asia, died 1552+
Peter sings, “New colors dancing on evergreen branches
You feel a change in the wind
Brings new light to your eyes once again”
Yesterday, on my day off I made several batches of what I humbly call, “Glusenkamp Granola.” Two summers ago I saw a recipe in the New York Times for making granola with olive oil. Here’s the link http://www.nytimes.com/2009/07/15/dining/151arex.html?ref=dining
Now, just by chance the first time I made the recipe I added by accident chocolate chips instead of coconut chips(it’s a common mistake among Glusenkamps). When I discovered the error of my ways I left the chocolate chips in the mix and added the coconut chips as well. Since that time I have continued to make a “mistake” on each occasion. I have also added sunflower seeds, as well as walnuts or cashews if I can’t find
raw pistachios. I’ve found that most people don’t like unshelled pistachios in their granola (live and learn).
Peter is singing about changes. There are colors dancing in the trees. The wind is a bit colder (at least in many places of the country). And the illumination and reflection of decorations brings new light to our eyes.
I’ve included a picture of Forrest who is in Second Grade. A few weeks ago all the Second grade students in our congregation received copies of SPARK Bibles. These Bibles published by Augsburg Fortress are very “user friendly.” The children and their parents were so excited to receive the Bibles. We also gave each child a jar of honey with the Bible passage, Ezekiel 3:2-3, 2So I opened my mouth, and he gave me the scroll to eat. 3He said to me, Mortal, eat this scroll that I give you and fill your stomach with it. Then I ate it; and in my mouth it was as sweet as honey. I learned this from Pastor Pam and Pastor Erik and the good people of Edina Community Lutheran Church. Young Christian, his parents and sibling as well as all of his classmates and parents are on a faith journey. One of our roles as a community of believers is to help pass on a “spark” so that their faith can blossom and grow. Pastor Ruth Ann, my colleague preached a “whale” of a sermon on that day. She spoke directly to the children (and let their parents and grandparents overhear the message).
http://www.bethany-denver2.org/church-life/sermons/?sermon_id=157
I know this is the second reference to the Wisdom of Sirach in one week. But, here’s a good reminder of how we can live as characters in “the story of Christmas,”
Sirach 28:12
If you blow on a spark, it will glow;
if you spit on it, it will be put out;
yet both come out of your mouth.
So, we have the power to create and tear down (or in this instance) extinguish. I want you to intentionally imagine today how your breath might help a spark to glow.
Peter sings, “New colors dancing on evergreen branches
You feel a change in the wind
Brings new light to your eyes once again”
Joyfully,
Rtg
Ps
Here’s a note from a reader/listener. I hope this “sparks” some of you to send in pictures, notes and ideas!
Dear Ron, Cynthia, and Peter,
I have attached a photo that I took when my wife Barb and I were in Asker Parish in Orebro, Sweden in July of 2009. It was the church that my Great Grandmother Clara Anderson Erickson Danielson and Great Grandfather Peter Erick Erickson attended in the 1880s before they emigrated to the United States.
It was taken when we were given a tour of the Asker Parish church of the Church of Sweden. We were climbing up the inside of the steeple to get a view of the countryside when I looked out the window and saw the cross. It is one of my favorite photos. I think seeing the cross through the star is very symbolic of Christmas
Please feel free to use the photo of the cross in the H2o Devotions if it fits in with your plans. Thanks,
Al Youngdahl & Barb Sanborn
Peter sings, “Stirrin’ up the water
Stirrin’ up my soul
A light comes to the darkness
Come and make me whole
Oh stir it up, stir it up Oh Lord”
In “the story of Christmas” we find ourselves in many settings. I have always loved the way the collects or prayers of the day for each week of Advent begin, “Stir up, Oh Lord and come.” What I find amazing is that for 48 weeks of the year we often include in our prayers with words like “calm the storms of our lives” “Bring Peace and Serenity” and
“make straight the rough.” But, in “the story of Christmas” during these days and nights of Advent we pray and request that God might “Stir up and come.”
Every church I have ever served which includes parishes in Wichita, Kansas City, St. Louis and now, Denver has had a fairly decent sized industrial kitchen. I am sure these kitchens reflect the amazing food and faith connection which is embedded in our theological dna. I suppose it also testifies to the high value of community that we have traditionally held . The Psalmist was right when he sang, “Taste and see that the Lord is good.” (Psalm 34) For many folks that includes an invitation to the Fellowship Hall to have coffee and donuts. At the same time while acknowledging our desire for food and community there is also a tendency to be conflict avoiders. Of course, we all know there are things that lurk just below the surface of the waters, but for the most part we want our experience at church to be smooth sailing, like a pleasure cruise on the Good Ship Lollypop as opposed to a theological Titanic or protestant Poseidon Adventure.
And yet, we pray and say, “Stir up, Oh Lord and come.” So, there is this intention, a desire, a petition to experience the conflict of Advent. This interruption is as Peter sings, “Stirrin’ up the water
Stirrin’ up my soul
A light comes to the darkness
Come and make me whole
Oh stir it up, stir it up Oh Lord”
God being the COSMIC BAKER that God is, has included us in the mix of this holy season. The conflict of Advent is to be “stirred up.” No longer can we simply go on our way, but rather we are stirred up and changed to “prepare the way of the Lord.”
The spoon collection pictured in today’s devo has been in my wife’s family for years. One of her aunts, by the name of Dorothy (which means “Gift of God”) collected spoons whenever she went some place. I’ve been in many homes of parishioners who also have collections of spoons. So, even though we have this nature to avoid conflict, there is also something or maybe SOMEONE who is nudging us to join the mix and be blended together for good, for God, for service, for worship.
In Psalm 80 we hear and read an ancient prayer to get “stirred up”
Stir up your might,
and come to save us!
3Restore us, O God;
let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Centuries later, Peter echoes that desire and request,
“Stirrin’ up the water
Stirrin’ up my soul
A light comes to the darkness
Come and make me whole
Oh stir it up, stir it up Oh Lord”
TSOC 120110 Hope & Lazarus
Wednesday
December 1, 2010
WORLD AIDS DAY
“Still I feel like a wrapped up Lazarus,
Haven’t made sense of the mystery,
But it makes sense of me”
Still In One Peace by Peter Mayer
You can download a free copy of this song
http://petermayer.com/AUDIO/siop/PeterMayer-StillInOnePeace.mp3
One of my favorite Bible passages is Hebrews 11:1. “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” The entire 11th chapter of Hebrews is like a Hall of Fame for Faith. It is a family scrapbook full of brothers and sisters, aunts and uncles, grandmas and grandpas, sons and daughters who have been filled with faith. It is the Facebook of Faith!
The angel in the picture is named Hope. As you can see in the photo taken by Brenda Greenwald, Hope has a shadow. Sometime, you and I get to see the real deal and other times we only get to see the shadow. Delia Stewart designed Hope and as she likes to say, “Everyone needs a little Hope.” You can contact Delia at deliastewart@comcast.net
Today on World Aids Day there are folks who are living in the shadow of hope. You can raise awareness to what’s going on with this devastating disease in the world by checking out the following links
http://www.one.org/us/onesabbath/lazaruseffect.html
Peter sings about feeling like Lazarus. There are times when we get so wrapped up in the clothes of death that we can’t even move. But, I believe that Jesus stands outside the tomb and calls us to become ALIVE!
John 11:43 tells us about the scene at the tomb of Lazarus When he had said this, he cried with a loud voice, "Lazarus, come out!" 44The dead man came out, his hands and feet bound with strips of cloth, and his face wrapped in a cloth. Jesus said to them, "Unbind him, and let him go."
Some of the most alive people I know are the ones who have been diagnosed as being “terminal.” And at the same time some of the most Spiritual “zombies” I know are folks who think they are immortal. Go figure!
My friend, Dr. Donald Messer has a new book out called, Names, Not Just Numbers.
If you go to his website you will see a banner which reads, “WE ALL HAVE AIDS.”
http://
Another friend, Julie White (who works with Don) has created a ministry to hire
women in India who are hiv+ to sew and make beautiful quilts. You can check out her life-saving love at www.onemother.org A “tag line” on the website states, “sewing lives together.”
I invite you today to be an angel of HOPE! If you don’t know much about AIDS, then get informed. If you are informed, then do feel something. If you feel something and care, then DO SOMETHING. As Dr. Messer says, “KNOW, CARE, ACT!”
The story of Christmas includes characters like HOPE + LAZARUS.
As the “story of Christmas” begins to unfold on a daily basis it’s good to add some
Spice into the mix. There is a book called the Wisdom of Sirach which didn’t make it into the 66 canonical books of the Old & New Testaments. However, in this book there are wise sayings. I am particularly fond of a line in chapter 6 verse 16,
A faithful friend is an elixir of life; and those who fear the Lord will find him.
I like the notion that a fried is the elixir or tonic or spice of life!
Peter sings, “It’s good to have a friend.”
Just stop for a moment and think about a friend of yours. Recall how he or she has been spice in your life. Conversely, spend a moment reflecting on how you have been a friend to another.
I have some cloves on my writing desk. I love the aroma they bring. I think of how on Easter Saturday I put the cloves in hot cross buns to represent the wounds of Christ.
My hands then give off a scent that is inviting and enticing. The cloves “stick out”
among the sweetness of the cross of icing.
In fact, the very name for cloves come from the French word for “nail.” You can learn more about cloves by checking out
http://www.food.com/library/clove-325
Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends” (John 15:13). What Jesus is talking about is spicier and deeper much deeper than “friends” on Facebook. Jesus is talking about love which is passionate and contagious.
I think Jesus “nails” it when he reminds us that love is the spice we are looking for.
Peter sings, “It’s good to have a friend.”
In the “story of Christmas” which is unfolding in front of us on a daily basis you and I are called to befriend the friendless. We are invited to be friends in an amazing love story.
I hope and pray you accept the request to be a friend today.
Peter sings, “It’s good to have a friend.”
Joyfully,
Rtg
The Story of Christmas
by Peter Mayer
New colors dancing on evergreen branches
You feel a change in the wind
Brings new light to your eyes once again
A year full of meanwhiles, hard times, good smiles
Suddenly the yuletide is near
Creeps in quietly, soon undeniably catches your heart
You’re part of the story of Christmas
Chorus
Joyful day
A star to guide you, a song to remind you
The Joy will stay
Long past the turn of the page
In the story of Christmas
Ribbons and strings, cold frozen streams
Forgotten dreams running wild
When every Mother and Father is a child
The song of an angel, good cheer to a stranger
The ones you’ve known all the way
Coming back to the heart of the matter to scatter the whistles and
bells
You’re telling the story of Christmas
Chorus
Abram was the Donald Trump of his day. Genesis 13:2 says, 2Now Abram was very rich in livestock, in silver, and in gold.
The only problem in Abram’s mind was that he didn’t have an “apprentice” namely, a son, an heir to inherit the family business. So, once again he was singing the blues and complaining that everything would be grand if he only had a son when God dropped by for a visit in a vision. Here’s how Genesis 15 tells the story, 2But Abram said, "O Lord GOD, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?" 3And Abram said, "You have given me no offspring, and so a slave born in my house is to be my heir." 4But the word of the LORD came to him, "This man shall not be your heir; no one but your very own issue shall be your heir." 5He brought him outside and said, "Look toward heaven and count the stars, if you are able to count them." Then he said to him, "So shall your descendants be." 6And he believed the LORD; and the LORD reckoned it to him as righteousness.
This my friends was the beginning of the Original Stars and Promises Tour!
Now here’s the deal. Abram and his wife were old. They had their AARP cards (Association of Aramean Retired People). They used them to get discounts on tent supplies, sheep dip and bbq sauce. But, God kept promising that they would have a child together. This promise backed up with the collateral of constellations of stars seemed like great foolishness. But, someway, somehow they believed (after laughing about it on numerous occasions). They laughed so hard they had to get elastic bandages to wrap their ribs which hurt from laughing, chuckling, guffawing and giggling again and again at the prospect of becoming parents at 100 (Abe) and Sarai (90). But, that’s what happened.
And they named their son “Chuckles” or in Hebrew Isaac which means, “laughter.” You can read all about it in Genesis 21. One thing to remember about the comedy of the Gospel is that God often has the last laugh!
Peter sings, “A star to guide you”
Here we are many years later. We don’t live in the fertile crescent. Nor do we often sleep under the stars. However, every once in a while we catch a glimpse like those stargazers did 2,000 years ago. It might just be for a split second or moment in time. We get the sense that God is up to something new when we become of aware of astrological “post-it” notes across the sky.
Peter sings, “A star to guide you”
A question for you today is this, “where are you being led?” As part of “the story of Christmas” how are you following the star? Think of Advent as a time of holy mapquesting, there is “a star to guide you.”
It’s exciting isn’t it?
Joyfully,
Rtg
PS the Star at the top of the devo is a “recycled” star. It was made at Camp Arcadia
http://camp-arcadia.com/ God continually “recycles” so called “junk” to make new and remarkable things. The “theological” term for this righteous recycling is REDEMPTION
This past summer Peter and I presented God Standard or Gold Standard: Studies in Proverbs. You can learn more about that Bible study by check out
In 2011 Peter and I will be at Camp Arcadia from July 9-16. Our theme for 2011 is
Passages4Passages
The Story of Christmas
by Peter Mayer
New colors dancing on evergreen branches
You feel a change in the wind
Brings new light to your eyes once again
A year full of meanwhiles, hard times, good smiles
Suddenly the yuletide is near
Creeps in quietly, soon undeniably catches your heart
You’re part of the story of Christmas
Chorus
Joyful day
A star to guide you, a song to remind you
The Joy will stay
Long past the turn of the page
In the story of Christmas
Ribbons and strings, cold frozen streams
Forgotten dreams running wild
When every Mother and Father is a child
The song of an angel, good cheer to a stranger
The ones you’ve known all the way
Coming back to the heart of the matter to scatter the whistles and
bells
You’re telling the story of Christmas
Chorus
TSOC 112810 Story Time
First Sunday of Advent
November 28, 2010
Peter sings, “You’re part of the story of Christmas.”
It’s “story time.” I remember as a child when I would hear those words my heart would feel happy. I liked “story time” because it took me to places familiar and unfamiliar. We sat in a circle and took magical trips to distant lands in distant times with kings and queens and giants, talking animals and happy endings. We heard about where we came from and also where we might go in the future with time travel, space ships and magic carpets.
Peter sings, “You’re part of the story of Christmas.”
Welcome to h2o devos. If this is your first time making the journey with us I want you to know that you’re part of a virtual congregation that spans the globe. If you’ve been on this trip before, “welcome back” Peter, Cynthia and I are delighted that you’re making your way to Bethlehem, the House of Bread via daily devos and podcasts. This is a time of year that you and I get to “dance with the stars and promises.” The good news is that there is no voting, no judges, no scores, but we all get to join in a fabulous dance revue finale on Christmas Day filled with a flash mob of heavenly hosts praising God and singing.
Peter sings, “You’re part of the story of Christmas.”
Peter has an amazing way of declaring the good news that we are in this story of Christmas. As you know a story has basic elements like narrative, plot, foreshadowing, usually some crisis, characters (that’s where you and I come in) action, setting, place, time, some more crisis (that’s where you and I come in again) and of course, resolution/denouement (that’s where you and I come in again and again.)
Now, just so you know that we’re taking this “You’re part of the story of Christmas” stuff seriously you can drop us a note at h2o.devos@earthlink.net to share your feelings, thoughts, pictures, reactions, hopes, disappointments and dreams.
Therefore, my brothers and sisters, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm in the Lord in this way, my beloved.
2I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to be of the same mind in the Lord. 3Yes, and I ask you also, my loyal companion, help these women, for they have struggled beside me in the work of the gospel, together with Clement and the rest of my co-workers, whose names are in the book of life.
4Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. (Phil 4)
Peter sings, “You’re part of the story of Christmas.”
This coming week we’re going to add ingredients into the story like spice, spoons, stars and sparks. It’s great to be with you once again because it’s STORY TIME.
Joyfully,
rtg
The Story of Christmas
by Peter Mayer
New colors dancing on evergreen branches
You feel a change in the wind
Brings new light to your eyes once again
A year full of meanwhiles, hard times, good smiles
Suddenly the yuletide is near
Creeps in quietly, soon undeniably catches your heart
You’re part of the story of Christmas
Chorus
Joyful day
A star to guide you, a song to remind you
The Joy will stay
Long past the turn of the page
In the story of Christmas
Ribbons and strings, cold frozen streams
Forgotten dreams running wild
When every Mother and Father is a child
The song of an angel, good cheer to a stranger
The ones you’ve known all the way
Coming back to the heart of the matter to scatter the whistles and
bells
You’re telling the story of Christmas
Chorus
All Saints Sunday
November 7, 2010
Spring Forward, Fall Back, Spring Forward Again
Pastor Ronald T. Glusenkamp
20Then he looked up at his disciples and said:
"Blessed are you who are poor,
for yours is the kingdom of God.
21"Blessed are you who are hungry now,
for you will be filled.
"Blessed are you who weep now,
for you will laugh.
22Blessed are you when people hate you, and when they exclude you, revile you, and defame you on account of the Son of Man. 23Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, for surely your reward is great in heaven;
for that is what their ancestors did to the prophets.
24"But woe to you who are rich,
for you have received your consolation.
25"Woe to you who are full now,
for you will be hungry.
"Woe to you who are laughing now,
for you will mourn and weep.
26Woe to you when all speak well of you, for that is what their ancestors did to the false prophets.
27But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 30Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. 31Do to others as you would have them do to you. Luke 6
Grace and peace to you from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
The prayer for All Saints Sunday says it so lovely and elegantly, “Almighty God, you have knit your people together in one communion in the mystical body of your Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.” So, please join hands with those next to you and look them in the eye and know, sense and feel that we are knit together with the saints of the church, past, present and future.
Today’s sermon/message can be boiled down or dehydrated into the title for today,
Spring Forward, Fall Back, Spring Forward Again. It is of course a connection to the time change that took place last night. But, more importantly it is about cosmic time being changed because of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Way back in the Garden of Eden when God breathed into the nostrils of humankind, woman and man became living beings. In other words they SPRANG FORWARD. And then due to some fast talking by the serpent and basic disobedience and sin, humankind, Adam and Eve FELL BACKWARDS.
Bruce Springsteen sang,
When I look at myself I don’t see
The man I wanted to be
Somewhere along the line I slipped off track
I’m caught movin’ one step up and two steps back
As you know this season of Stewardship we have been talking and walking our way up to Consecration Sunday, November 14th. It is our goal our desire to FOLLOW JESUS. And because we follow Jesus we can FACE THE TRUTH. So, that is why and how we are able to name, to confess, to boldly state that although we SPRING FORWARD into following Jesus, sometimes because of as Luther said, “the devil, the world or our flesh” we FALL BACK. Life as you know is often moving “one step up and two steps back.”
FACING THE TRUTH means that as we declare on Ash Wednesday, “you are dust and to dust you shall return.” This morning we read the names of those who have died since last year’s ALL SAINTS SUNDAY. As you look at their names and hear the names you can see and sense how they FOLLOWED JESUS.
We recall today how we have been “knit together” with them because of Jesus. So our goal is to FOLLOW JESUS as he leads us and guides through “the valley of the shadow of death” and to green pastures. Listen to how we are called to live
27But I say to you that listen, Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, 28bless those who curse you, pray for those who abuse you. 29If anyone strikes you on the cheek, offer the other also; and from anyone who takes away your coat do not withhold even your shirt. 30Give to everyone who begs from you; and if anyone takes away your goods, do not ask for them again. 31Do to others as you would have them do to you
That my friends is to SPRING FORWARD AGAIN. It is to acknowledge that we are KNIT TOGETHER. This isn’t some “pie in the sky” thing but as Beth Lewis said last week, a call that is “counter-cultural, radical and reforming” to FOLLOW JESUS. And that has something, in fact everything to do with how we use our time, our talents and our money. We have been blessed. We have been greatly blessed. Now, I know there have been times when the economy was better, when there were more jobs and more stability.
I also know that to FOLLOW JESUS means that we share our gifts with one another.
As you know I love musicians like Sting and Bono. Bono says in one of his songs, “so much more to ask of you and of ourselves.” I am asking you to pray this day and every day how you might SPRING FORWARD AGAIN into recognizing and sharing our gifts. I am asking you to FOLLOW JESUS. I am asking you to FACE THE TRUTH that Jesus is calling us to be connected stay connected and re-connect with the riches and treasures of knowing that we are forgiven and redeemed children of God.
Amen
Lectionary 23
Proper 18
September 5, 2010
Labor Day Weekend
Pastor Ron Glusenkamp
“Choices for Life”
25Now large crowds were traveling with him; and he turned and said to them, 26"Whoever comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters, yes, and even life itself, cannot be my disciple. 27Whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple. 28For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not first sit down and estimate the cost, to see whether he has enough to complete it? 29Otherwise, when he has laid a foundation and is not able to finish, all who see it will begin to ridicule him, 30saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.' 31Or what king, going out to wage war against another king, will not sit down first and consider whether he is able with ten thousand to oppose the one who comes against him with twenty thousand? 32If he cannot, then, while the other is still far away, he sends a delegation and asks for the terms of peace. 33So therefore, none of you can become my disciple if you do not give up all your possessions. Luke 14
Grace and peace to you from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Jesus said, “whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.”
Those are hard words. There is no doubt about it. They reflect a command, a demand that to be a follow of Jesus one needs to be “all in.” There is nothing partial about following Jesus. One either does or one doesn’t. There isn’t any in between. These words of Jesus describe the hard work of what it means to be a Christian on this Labor Day weekend.
Take in hand if you will, the ELW and turn to page 1160 (which is at the back of the book). We will read together the First Commandment, “You shall have no other gods.” What does this mean? “We are to fear, love and trust God above all things.”
It is that simple. It is that complex. At first hearing, we might be a little defensive and bristle at these words. We say to ourselves, “I/we are not like those folks who wandered around in the wilderness for 40 years. I don’t have any golden calves in my backyard or in my life. And yet, we just confessed earlier that we do not always fear, love and trust God, but rather sometimes fear, love and trust in things.
As park of my Weight Watcher regime, I try like Jared of the commercials to make healthy choices when it comes to eat at a restaurant. So, when I go to Subway I know that there are health choices, choices for life if you will to be made. What kind of bread do I want? Wheat, white, Jalapeno, Italian, Monterey Cheddar, or Roasted Garlic? Toasted or not? And then I am asked to state my choice of onions, lettuce, tomato, olive, pickles, oil & vinegar, salt/pepper, mayo, mustard, peppers, and cheese, Swiss, American or Provolone. Last but not least, is this for here or to go?
Good old Moses was near the end of his career. He had seen it all and done it all. Long after being called through the mystery of the Burning Bush, Moses experienced “burn-out” and being “hot” under the collar throughout his decades of trying to lead the people of God to the Promised Land. Now they were just about there. All they had to do was to cross over the river and they would enter the destination they had prayed for, walked for, sweated for and worked for all these years. Moses presented the choices they had:
15See, I have set before you today life and prosperity, death and adversity. 16If you obey the commandments of the LORD your God that I am commanding you today, by loving the LORD your God, walking in his ways, and observing his commandments, decrees, and ordinances, then you shall live and become numerous, and the LORD your God will bless you in the land that you are entering to possess. 17But if your heart turns away and you do not hear, but are led astray to bow down to other gods and serve them, 18I declare to you today that you shall perish; you shall not live long in the land that you are crossing the Jordan to enter and possess. 19I call heaven and earth to witness against you today that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, 20loving the LORD your God, obeying him, and holding fast to him; for that means life to you and length of days, so that you may live in the land that the LORD swore to give to your ancestors, to Abraham, to Isaac, and to Jacob. Deuteronomy 30
The other morning in God’s Word for the Week someone asked, “Who would choose death?” Of course, in the hypothetical, in the non-real situation, who would choose death? But in the very busy-ness and business of our lives, it is clear that often people make the wrong choices, choices for death, not for life. Listen again to the words,
“Choose life so that you and your descendants may live, 20loving the LORD your God, obeying him, and holding fast to him;”
Basically, it tells the account of an experiment where shoppers were confronted with the choice of 24 types of jam on one occasion and just 6 types of jam on another occasion. People actually purchased more jam when their choices were limited thus challenging the notion “that the more choices, the better-that the human ability to manage and the human desire for, choice is infinite.” (page 995- “When Choice is Demotivating”)
It is the comedy of the Holy Gospel that Jesus choose to carry the cross, to die on the cross experiencing total forsakenness (My God, my God, what have you forsaken me?) for our sakes. Let’s just stand there, stand here at the foot of the cross and ponder that amazing Good News. Jesus chose death, so that we might have life.
This being Labor Day Weekend, we are lifting up vocations. Frederick Buechner has written, “… The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world’s deep hunger meet [emphasis added].”
Frederick Buechner, Wishful Thinking: A Seeker’s ABC
The phrase “God’s work our hands” is what that means. It is the work of God, holy stuff when you think about it, that we human beings, made of flesh and blood are called to get our hands dirty in choosing life and not death.
I often point out to the Bible class members that I am studying with that Jesus, as well as Moses where (and here comes a shock, not Lutherans). I always soften that news with the phrase, “they of course would have been, if they could have been). So, what today’s texts, the one from Deuteronomy about “choosing life and not choosing death” as well as Jesus’ words about the cross (Jesus said, “whoever does not carry the cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.” raise the discussion about justification and sanctification. In other words, we as Lutherans talk about how we have been saved. We quote St. Paul,
“by grace you have been saved through faith.” That tells us how we have been “justified.” The next step is how in the world do we live out in the world the very good news that we have been saved? That too is where we quote St. Paul, “in Christ we are new creations.” So, we do “choose life” and carry the cross.
Which can of course, mean vulnerability, conflict and sadness.
Diana Butler Bass describes this phenomena as moving from “tourist to pilgrim.” She eloquently summarizes the journey of Nora (pages 216-217) in Christianity For the Rest of Us. Nora discovers that she could “never really understand Christianity unless she lived it.”
Jesus has made the choice of us. Today we celebrate Hannah Elizabeth and Mollie Anne being chosen. We give thanks that God has entrusted God work to us. Choices for Life-God’s Work our Hands.
Amen
Note- I was listening to Sting be interviewed on PBS. He spoke of juxtapositions. I've juxtaposed tomorrow's hymn of the day, "When Love is Found" with excerpts from the ELCA Social Statement:
Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust. On Sunday, August 8th we celebrate what we are calling "Marriage Sunday."
August 8, 2010
Lectionary 19
Proper 14
Eleventh Sunday after Pentecost
Pastor Ronald T. Glusenkamp
Dwell in Love
9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love. 10If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father's commandments and abide in his love. 11I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete. 12This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. John 15
Grace and peace to you from our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Jesus said, “9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.”
Authentic is a really important concept and approach to living and loving. It implies reliability, trustworthiness and originality. We talk a lot about being AAA Christians, Authentic, Available and Affirming.
One of the most authentic statements that is said in church comes from the Life Passages section of the ELW, in the Marriage Service. These words are often read after the parents have been seated, after the groomsmen and bridesmaids have made their way up front, as the flower girl and the ring bearer have meandered they were forward coaxed on by anxious family members, and last but not least as the bride and the groom have joined hands and now stand in front of the pastor and the congregation. Listen to these words,
“The Lord God in goodness created us male and female, and by the gift of marriage founded human community in a joy that begins now and is brought to perfection in the life to come.
Because of sin, our age-old rebellion, the gladness of marriage can be overcast and the gift of a family can become a burden. But because God, who established marriage, continues still to bless it with abundant and ever-present support, we can be sustained in our weariness and have our joy restored.” ELW- Marriage Service .
Years ago there was one guide on the Marriage liturgy that described this as “joy, sin, joy restored.” In other words, this takes us back to the garden, the Garden of Eden, to East of Eden and then to the Garden of Gethsemane where Jesus was arrested and then crucified for our sake. Fortunately, Joy has been and is restored because of his resurrection.
This morning we are celebrating marriages. Little did Pastor Ruth Ann and I know when we scheduled this date almost a year ago that there would be a ruling on California’s Proposition 8, just four days before Marriage Sunday. Nor did we know, that Eat Pray Love would be released just five days afterwards on (Friday the 13th) .We are grateful you are here to celebrate with our community.
Today’s sermon is interactive. It is based on a lovely hymn by Brian Wren called, “When Love is Found.” Rick will give us an introduction and then
If I remember correctly the lead-in to the show always featured some kind of “fireworks.” And you’ve experienced that explosion of love if you’ve found as the hymn Borning Cry states, “someone to make your verses rhyme.” Or as you’ve stood at a wedding and seen the joy, the hope and love which is clearly exhibited by the bride and the groom. Or many years later at a 50th or 60the wedding anniversary party, when the bride has to stand with a walked and the groom is in a wheelchair. When hearing isn’t as sharp as it once was and speech might even be halted or slurred because of a stroke or two, it is clear that love has been found and found over and over again.
We remember, Jesus said, “9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.”
Verse two is sung by Brenda at 8 and 10:30am (at 9 it is sung by ALL)
2 When love has flow’red in trust and care,
build both each day that love may dare
to reach beyond home’s warmth and light,
to serve and strive for truth and right.
Martin Luther called marriage, “the school for character.”
Throughout the sermon this morning you will hear quotes from the ELCA Social Statement
“Marriage is a covenant of mutual promises, commitment, and hope authorized
legally by the state and blessed by God. The historic Christian tradition
and the Lutheran Confessions have recognized marriage as a covenant
between a man and a woman, reflecting Mark 10: 6–9: ‘But from the beginning
of creation, God made them male and female. For this reason a man
shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall
become one flesh. So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore
what God has joined together, let no one put asunder.’ (Jesus here recalls
Genesis 1:27; 2:23–24.) Lutherans long have affirmed that the public accountability of marriage, as expressed through a legal contract, provides the necessary social support
and social trust for relationships that are intended to be sustained throughout
life and within changing and often challenging life situations.” (Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust p. 15-16)
We celebrate today that Jesus said, “9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.”
Women sing verse three
3 When love is tried as loved-ones change,
hold still to hope though all seems strange,
till ease returns and love grows wise
through list’ning ears and opened eyes.
“Marriage requires constant care and cultivation. It is intended to protect
the creation and nurturing of mutual trust and love as one foundation of
human community. It is a binding relationship that provides conditions for
personal well-being, the flourishing of the partner, and the possibility of
procreation and the nurturing of children. It also is intended to be a blessing
to the community and the world. Because of promises of fidelity and
public accountability, marriage provides a context of love, trust, honesty,
and commitment within which a couple can express the profound joy of
relationship as well as address the troubles they encounter throughout life.”
(Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust p. 16)
Jesus said, “9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.”
Men sing verse four
4 When love is torn and trust betrayed,
pray strength to love till torments fade,
till lovers keep no score of wrong
but hear through pain love’s Easter song.
“The Christian commitment to marriage recognizes that sin enters all relationships,
both within and outside the institution of marriage. All marriages
fall short of intentions, and difficulties are inevitable, both because of
the different needs and desires of the two individuals and because of sin,
which places the anxious concern for self before the needs of the other.
Infidelity to marriage promises betrays the intimate trust of the partner, the
security of the family, and the public trust of the community.
Precisely because marriage is the place where deep human trust and needs
abide, it also can be a place of great harm. Many experience neither love
nor trust within marriage. Harming another emotionally, physically, or spiritually,
including through the misuse or abuse of power, is a profound injury.
It also is a betrayal and violation of the shelter and trust that are intended
within the marriage relationship. Particular care must be taken to support
and find safe haven for all who are at risk within a marriage.” (Human Sexuality: Gift and Trust p. 16-17)
“Love’s Easter song” invites all of us to begin each day as new creations, forgiven and redeemed. It calls us to be affirming and available to each other as we go through life for
Jesus said, “9As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you; abide in my love.”
