..........................“Play Ball!”........................April 2011
Dear Members & Friends of PLC:
“Do not be alarmed; you are looking for Jesus of Nazareth who was crucified. He has been raised; he is not here. Look there is the place they laid him.” (Words spoken by an angel to women who went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ dead body with burial spices – in Mark 16:6)
...................The Crack of the Bat
I am writing this article on March 21st and a nearby desk calendar reminds me that I highlighted in yellow yesterday’s “First Day of Spring” notation boldly printed within a March 20th rectangular space. There are still some snow drifts to melt in the park and elsewhere. GFW spring sport athletes are practicing nevertheless, even if the ball diamonds, track, and golf courses are not ready for use. The Twins are almost done with the “grapefruit” league and will soon head north for opening day. After a long winter many softball and baseball fans long for the ‘crack of the bat’ and to hear the home plate umpire yell out, “Play ball!”
I had a lot of fun playing ball as a kid. From 1959 to 1964 my family lived within a new development of homes built around Foley Blvd. and 109th Ave. in Coon Rapids (MN). There was still a lot of open land throughout the area, and many boys in my age group lived within a few blocks radius of my house. Several of us fashioned a makeshift ball field behind my family’s small back yard in the sand encrusted meadow that included an occasional ‘in-the-way’ oak tree. We played a ton of ball out there without any distractions except perhaps when we heard the enchanting bell of the “Mr. Freeze” ice cream van snaking its way through neighborhood streets. Play was then abruptly halted as kids ran home to beg for a quarter.
........................The Rules of the Game
Is it safe to say that everybody knows the rules for baseball, right? When playing games my grandma’s maxim comes to mind, “Now Robert, rules are rules!” However, in our meadow league we often made changes or exceptions to the rules. If the youngest of the seven Revering boys batted, he got four strikes because he was only in second grade. If a first time big kid showed up and he looked sophisticated, meaning he wore a Harmon Killabrew shirt or had cleats, then the team he was on got only two outs per inning. Little kids and girls, (yes we were a progressive league) could receive under-hand pitches. Also, it was the fielder’s privilege to declare “interference” if the oak tree in shallow right field was deemed the cause of an error which more than likely would have occurred anyway, but it’s helpful for the fielder’s ego to blame the conditions of the field. (All right, so I played right field a lot.)
It seems to me that every type of ball organization or league has adopted a standard set of rules for the game. Trained, impartial umpires are to mediate disputes and uphold the rules. When teams play each other, they abide by the same rules. There are no changes in the rules to compensate for player size. There are no exceptions to the rules based on players’ intentions, abilities, or comprehension of the game. Regarding the game of baseball, Grandma Hanson’s commonsensical Methodist viewpoint bears truth, “Rules are rules.”
.........The Ten Commandments – Rules for the Game of Life
This Lenten season our Wednesday evening Worship theme is “The Ten Commandments.” Part of the reasoning for this choice was that our Bishop, the Rev. Jon Anderson, who was our guest on Sunday, February 13th when we celebrated our centennial “Charter Day,” encouraged us to review and relearn the basic teachings of Luther’s The Small Catechism as we enter into our new century of life and ministry at PLC.
Just as there are rules for the game of baseball, God our heavenly Father has given “rules” for the game of life. The Jewish people call the first five books of the Old Testament the “Torah.”. It is a collection of God’s holy laws given to “patriarchs” such as Abraham, “leaders” such as Moses, etc. and implemented by “prophets, priests, and judges.” Within the Torah are statutes, ordinances, prohibitions, collections of grouped law codes such as the “Holiness Code” in Leviticus Ch. 12 – 26, and the “The Book of the Covenant” in Exodus Ch. 21 – 23. Embedded within the Torah of course is a foundational grouping of laws we call “The Ten Commandments” written in Exodus Ch. 20 and also in Deuteronomy Ch. 5.
........The Ten Commandments: part of a “Vassal Covenant”
Some Bible teachers think the Ten Commandments were originally seen by Bible writers as components of an ancient practice of making treaties or contracts often called a “covenant.” Covenants can be understood as a contract between two parties of unequal power such as a powerful king and conquered tribal groups or it can describe a “deal” between God and humanity. (Sometimes the less powerful party of the contract was called a “vassal.”)
The Ten Commandments can be seen within the formula framework of a “Vassal Covenant.” I will briefly describe six components of this type of a covenant, underlining each term. There is a preamble that states the title of the superior party, and in this case, God. We read in Exodus 20:2, “I am the Lord your God...” An historical prologue is given to assure the party of the second part (Israel/people) that the party of the first part (God) can fulfill the contractual terms. Exodus 20:2 continues, “…who brought you out of the land of Egypt, out of the house of bondage.”
The third part of the covenant included stipulations or the responsibilities of the co-signatories. The vassal (second party) had to show loyalty only to the lord (first party). The Ten Commandments are a list of “apodictic” stipulations. This means the commands do not have any conditions attached that make them valid only under certain circumstances as with case laws. Some are positive commands: “You shall keep the Sabbath Day.” “You shall honor your father & mother.” Some are prohibitions: “You shall have no other gods.” “You shall not take the Lord your God’s name in vain.” You shall not murder…not commit adultery…not steal…not bear false witness…not covet ‘stuff’.”
In biblical times the written covenant was to be kept in a safe deposit location and undergo regular public readings. Deut. 10:5 specifically mentions that the “tablets of the law” (what we usually understand as a copy of the Ten Commandments) be deposited in the “Ark of the Covenant.” Anyone remember the movie “Raiders of the Lost Ark?” Deut. 31:9-13 offers provisions for recitation:
“At he end of every seven years, at the set time of the year of release, at the Feast of Booths (or Tabernacles), when all Israel comes to appear before the Lord your God at the place which he will choose, you shall read this law before all Israel in their hearing. Assemble the people – men, women, and little ones, and the sojourner within your towns – that they may hear and learn to fear the Lord your God, and be careful to do all the words of the law.”
Covenants like all legal contracts – list witnesses. In Joshua chapter 24 one reads about the “covenant renewal” ceremony, an illustration of the public reading component mentioned above. Joshua uses a great stone as a symbolic witness. Josh. 24:27 reads:
“And Joshua took a great stone, and set it up under the oak in the sanctuary of the Lord. And Joshua said to all the people: ‘Behold! This stone shall be a witness against us, for it has heard all the words of the Lord which he spoke to us.’”
The sixth component of the vassal covenant introduces blessings on those who abide by the covenantal terms and curses on those who forsake them. Deut. 28:1 promises, “If you obey the voice of the Lord your God, being careful to do all the commandments…blessed will you be in the city and blessed will you be in the field.” Later in verse 15 the consequence of failure to obey the stipulations are stated, “…cursed shall you be in all that you undertake to do, until you are destroyed and perish quickly…The Lord will smite you with the boils of Egypt, and with the ulcers, and the scurvy, and the itch of which you cannot be healed…” Whoa!
..................Does Baseball mimic Life?
Have you ever thought how different life would be if everyone in the world pledged themselves to obey the Ten Commandments? How would the criminal justice system look? How much tax money would be needed for police protection, the courts, the prisons, etc? How much would each country need to spend for national defense? How would the world economy look if such major budget expenditures were shifted or eliminated? But of course not everyone will “renew themselves to the covenant.” Sometimes people even bring their own “stipulations” or opinions about what God requires.
As neighborhood kids playing baseball in our back yard “meadow league” we had our own rules as I mentioned above. Sometimes other kids outside our immediate neighborhood would ride their bikes over and want to play a game. Occasionally there would be an argument about rules. For example, the “visiting team” would claim that they always allow runners on base to steal, whereas we didn’t. We didn’t have formal pre-agreed upon rules. We argued vigorously that our rules were correct and the other team’s rules were arbitrary. We didn’t have an impartial umpire to settle disputes, and on more than one occasion the offended party took their bats or game ball and went home. Game over for that day!
Is America still considered a “melting pot?” We certainly have new members of society from all other countries in the world. Many of these people were not raised as Christians. Many residents claim no religious affiliation at all. Yet does everyone come to the “game” with their own set of rules? Is it obvious that there is only one set of rules? That would be the Ten Commandments for many Christians. Are the Ten Commandments self-explanatory, and everyone knows exactly how they apply?
In a Gallup poll from 2006, 84% of the respondents said that the Ten Commandments are a valid guide to life. Yet only 30% could name even three commandments! A poll of British citizens in 2009 states that 65% of the respondents think the first three commandments are not necessary and, that they should be replaced with new ones such as: “Do protect the planet.” “Do respect all people regardless of race, religion, or sexuality.” “Do not commit terrorism.” “Do not become greedy.” It seems that a “meadow league” sentiment about rules has gained a world stage.
Comparative religion teachers point out that many ancient societies had religious leaders or cultural heroes who were recipients of “God law.” Their tasks included: to reveal, to promote, and to defend the ancient gift of law code so that society would prosper and retain the blessing of God or the gods. Diodorus of Siculus, who lived about one hundred years before Christ’s birth, wrote a history of cultures who received laws from a god. The list includes: Egyptians = Hermes, Minoans = Zeus, Spartans = Apollo, Arians = Ahura Mazda, Jews = Yahweh, the personal name for God in the Old Testament.
.............................Play Ball!
I don’t think it should threaten our Christian faith if other religions stress that they too have God given commandments that likewise seek to protect people from each other’s sinful proclivities. May all practitioners of religion be successful in loving God and neighbor in ways Christ taught, demonstrated, and commanded!
Our world is filled with thousands of indigenous cultures within hundreds of nations, many of which are attempting to build societies that respect religious freedom of expression. (And of course there are many countries that prohibit such.) I hope America is a society that seeks to promote human dignity, religious tolerance, and encourages high ethical standards. I think a worthy guide for grasping and living out admirable lives of spiritual and ethical integrity are found in Luther’s Small Catechism where illustrative meanings of the Ten Commandments are explained. Obeying the Ten Commandments and living out Luther’s explanations is not easy.
If we desire to honor God with our lives then we seek to obey the Ten Commandments. By grace we ask God to help us obey. While we understand that we are not “saved” by the Ten Commandments, we are more likely to be “kept safe” by obeying them. If only all people would comply.
Archimedes (287-212 B. C.), the ancient Greek mathematician and inventor once quipped, “Give me a lever long enough and a place to stand and I will move the world.” If you want to move the world, you need to stand outside of it. That’s just what our Lord God did. God gave us the gift of the Ten Commandments for the purpose of promoting human well-being and for showing us our need for a Savior. God stood outside the world to give us both his Law and his Son Jesus Christ who made it possible to have forgiveness of sin and the means for eternal life.
In Christ God has defeated Satan, sin, and death. We know how the ball game will end. In Christ we win. There are still innings to play. We have the rules – God’s Ten Commandments plus various other ethical instructions throughout the Bible. You can step to the plate because it is your turn to bat. You can face the pitcher called “life.” Your third base coach is named “Easter” who gives you the sign to swing away. Wow! Did you hear that crack of the bat? Nice hit! Thanks be to God because we have good rules for the game. Thanks be to God because we have Easter coaching us. Thanks be to God that we get to play the game. Hey, I just heard our umpire yell, “Play ball!”
..............“Jesus and the High Jump Bar”................
March 2011
Dear Members and Friends of PLC:
On March 9th we will gather for Ash Wednesday Worship. We will hear the words of consequence spoken by God the Creator to Adam and Eve after their act of disobedience. In Genesis 3:19 the Lord God said, “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread until you return to the ground, for out of it you were taken; you are dust, and to dust you shall return.”
Ash Wednesday Worship leads us to contemplate the brevity of every life on earth. Even as we remember our mortality we hear much in Scripture calling us into the fullness of beauty, healing and light of earthly life. As we turn to love others as Christ commands, seeking to provide what is needed for their lives, we discover that we have turned also to God, who welcomes us with open arms. We humble creatures cannot control what lies beyond this world; that power belongs to God. The joy of our lives is serving one another, delighting in God’s presence and trusting in God’s future.
We pray: Almighty God, may we fast this Lent from the pride and fear that keep us from one another. Help us recognize that our worship of you means true love for one another. Open our ears to hear you say, “Here I am” when we turn toward one another in generous love. Amen.
A Day at the Track Meet
Four years ago I attended my first high school track meet. I was fascinated by the busyness of the many events. I was impressed that kids could throw the shot put almost 50 feet. I couldn’t believe how fast kids could glide over the hurdles – without tripping. What grabbed my attention the most was watching a kid from LeSueur-Henderson H.S. do the high jump. He looked about 5’ 8” and walked to the bar that was taller than him. He placed a mark of sorts on the ground. He paced off his approach. He rocked backed and forth in a stride position, and then began with pronounced steps. He made an arc approach accelerating the last several steps and then sprung up leaning toward the bar and flipped over it successfully. I couldn’t believe my eyes. That kid could out jump his height! Incredible! How can anyone do such a thing?
I read that the world record for the high jump is 2.44 meters which is a shade over 8 feet. Can you imagine that? A guy named Javier Sotormayor from Cuba did that in 1998. Throughout sports history the high jump bar has continued to be raised higher and higher. Will anyone ever top the current record? How high can the bar go?
Jesus – as Moses on steroids
This Epiphany season we have been reading from Matthew’s Gospel, the Sermon on the Mount, (chapters 5-7). Some Bible teachers think that the writer (of) St. Matthew wanted readers to see Jesus as a “new Moses” as well as being the Messiah. Jesus also gives God’s teachings from on high (just as Moses delivered the 10 Commandments in Exodus). Jesus speaks of contrasts within these chapters. He says, “You have heard it said…(referring to what is in the Torah – first five books of the Old Testament.)…but I say to you…”(and Jesus now gives an expanded teaching on the OT topic mentioned).
For example Jesus says in Mt. 5:38-41, “You have heard it said, ‘An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, do not resist an evildoer. But if anyone strikes you on the right cheek, turn the other also; and if anyone wants to sue you and take your coat, give your cloak as well; and if anyone forces you to go one mile, go also the second mile. Give to everyone who begs from you, and do not refuse anyone who wants to borrow from you.” Jesus ends these verses by saying, “Be perfect, therefore, as your heavenly Father is perfect.”
Is Jesus raising the bar higher? If the Law of Moses commands one to jump a certain height in terms of being holy, righteous, and godly, then is Jesus inferring that “my standards” are higher than the Old Testament Law standards? Is Jesus stressing that “my covenant” is higher than the previous covenant? Do you see Jesus raising the jumping bar higher? Permit a slap to the left cheek too. Let someone take your cloak as well. Walk a second mile also? How high does Jesus want to raise the bar? “Be perfect!” Hey, that’s raising the bar so high that I can’t even see it! What’s a poor sinner to do?
Martin Luther tried to jump that high bar. He wanted to please God and show God a devoted love. Martin tried to keep all the commandments and teachings. Martin thought he was a good high jumper, but he always felt that he couldn’t clear the bar no matter how often and hard he tried.
I’m not as willing as Martin. I don’t want to have my cheeks slapped. I don’t want to give up my cloak, hey it’s winter outside. I don’t want to walk a second mile, if the first one is all that’s required. I guess I’m like most people when it comes to that high jump bar. Hey Lord, why not lower it for me, but raise it for the next guy?
A Jumping Strategy
I have been told that a basic rule for high jumping is never look at the bar as you approach your jump. If you gaze at the bar, you’re doomed because you will focus on how high the bar seems, and lose the energy burst derived from successfully focusing on & carrying out your required technique. Instead, jumpers mark their ‘jumping-off’ point somewhere in front of the bar. They concentrate on their approach, eyes fixed on their mark, plant their jumping foot and leap up and over the bar. Hopefully as they land on the padded mat and come out of their flip-roll they notice that the bar is still standing. They did it!
What’s a poor sinner to do?
I like to think of Christ as our “jump coach.” Jesus walks us through the technique. “As you approach the bar don’t look up and think all these commandments are impossible,” I imagine Jesus saying. Instead, I think Jesus says that he will lie down on the ground and point to the very spot where I or anyone else should jump-off. So here goes. I measure off my paces. I rock back and forth in a stride position. I make a running arc approach. I do not look at the bar, but I lock-in on where Jesus points on the ground. I reach that spot, (avoid falling on the Lord), jump-off, accelerate up and feel an incredible boost. What just happened? Hey, as I feebly lifted off the ground Jesus raised his finger off the ground, put his hand under my jumping-off foot and propelled me up, and up, and up over the bar.
I land safely on the padded mat. I look up and the bar still stands. I did it. Or did I? Well, by the grace of God I obeyed a commandment. By the love of Christ I practiced his teaching. By the boost of the Holy Spirit I made it to Worship, I spoke a prayer, I read a Bible verse, I gave a few bucks to a ministry cause, I asked forgiveness, I apologized to another, I extended forgiveness, I helped a guy out, I cleaned up my language, I gained control over a behavior, I thought positive thoughts, I didn’t blame others, I admitted my sin, I was seen as becoming less selfish, I was seen as becoming more mature, I was seen as not always having to be right, I was seen as being less judgmental, I was feeling some inner joy, I was thinking that life is worth living, I was planning a hopeful future, I was not afraid to die. How do all these things come about?
Wow! The love of Jesus Christ propels me over the high bar of law, sin, judgment, and death. Now I’m really getting into this Christian jumping business. I’m alive for Christ. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me! The years sail by. I know I am called to serve a risen Savior. I know I’m claimed in Baptism as God’s child. I am sustained by the Sacrament of Holy Communion. I sin and seek forgiveness. I confess my need for Christ and pray for the power to repent from sin. It has been a life of grace. Then, the time for a final jump arrives. I know it has to be all Grace in Christ for me to jump all the way to heaven. I look up at that high bar, but then quickly I focus on my jumping coach. I run my approach route. I place my foot down where Jesus points. Oh no, I don’t feel his lift. I rise up and over the bar. But where is the spiritual burst of energy that I have always felt? I panic in those few moments and land on the mat. I look up and the high bar is not on the pegs. No! It can’t be real! I knocked the high bar of the pegs! I didn’t clear the bar to heaven – Lord, have mercy on my soul! But wait, I’m on the “other side.” If I didn’t clear the bar then how did I get here? I look around and I see Jesus holding the bar and in his hands it just dissolves. Go figure.
Soon we will begin Lent. Spring, Easter, and the track season will follow. Kids will be high jumping again. Jesus Christ the Risen Savior comes to you today and offers his services to you a would-be high jumper. He walks you to the bar, which is pretty high. You want to look up, but he gently diverts your gaze to the ground where he kneels and points. You know what to do. You just do. So you measure off your paces. You get into your stride position. You rock back – and- forth and begin your approach with the biggest smile of your life. Bar, what bar, your eyes are burned in on where Christ points to the ground. You jump-off! Bliss encircles you as you thank God for the best “jump coach” imaginable.
God’s peace be with you as we enter Lent 2011. Go in peace and serve the Lord. Thanks be to God! PBob
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..........1911 – Centennial Celebration – 2011........
“Repent, for the Kingdom of Heaven has come near.”
February 2011
Dear Members & Friends of PLC:
........First: asking God to comfort those who mourn.......
Sunday, January 23rd was a morning of Worship, and then discussion, as we held our ‘Annual Congregational Business Meeting.’ I appreciate our newly elected Church Council members’ willingness to serve. Throughout this centennial year may Christ guide: Kyle Grams (Vice-president), Tammi Knick, Lawrence Rettmann, Nathan Thompson, Jacki Kruggel (Secretary) along with our previously elected Church Council representatives. “Thank you” dear friends for your leadership and service!
After the Annual Meeting I met with Brent Roiger, our past-President and Doug Hanson, our current Council President. We were joyful. We were thankful for our congregation’s spirit of unity in Christ. We were looking forward to a blessed year of centennial celebrations. For the time being I was not thinking about the complexities and particular challenges facing certain PLC members, most notably, Doug’s beloved daughter Kristin.
In case you weren’t aware, Kristin was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor in late November. On December 27th she underwent surgery to remove as much of the tumor as possible. The surgeon was happy with the outcome. Kristin was undergoing rehabilitation therapy and was due to begin radiation therapy Jan. 25th. Family and friends were latching onto Kristin’s expressions of courage, positive attitude, and faith talk.
When Doug returned home after the Annual Meeting a sudden medical crisis developed. Kristin was transported to a nearby hospital emergency center by our Winthrop ambulance personnel. Kristin died. It only takes one phone call, or one Facebook posting, or one text message, etc. and joy becomes tempered as the reality of loss and heartache crash in upon us.
O Lord, how hard it is to receive such news. We wish not to give up our loved ones. It’s so easy to deny the steep climb facing certain cancer diagnoses. We vow to help patients conquer that mountain. Kristin and her family gave all humanly efforts possible. Lord, you motivated and supplied the spiritual energy for their ascent. We wanted Kristin to gain that summit. We wanted future years with a Kristin in remission.
We pray Dear Jesus that you will console Doug and his family. Comfort all who mourn. Give us Easter faith! In our minds and actions make Resurrection more powerful than death! Always enable us to come together to support each patient and family in times of need. Amen.
.................“That was close!”...................
One November day a few years ago I was slowing down for a stop sign. I looked left and right and saw no oncoming traffic from either direction. As I pulled out into the intersection I heard the blaring horn of a vehicle which passed in front of me by no more than a lane’s width. Where did that guy come from? How come I didn’t see him when I looked both ways? His car was a tan or gray tone and blended into the backdrop colors of a cat-tail slough and the ditch grass. Somehow I failed to detect his movement as he approached me. Thankfully I slammed on the brakes and as he sped through the intersection he tried communicating with me. I could read his lips through the windshield. The first two words were, “You stupid…” and by the time he mouthed more words he was already through the intersection. I’m guessing that his next words were not particularly nice words, but he was entitled to expressing them. My carelessness almost caused an accident, one that might have been fatal to him, me, or both of us. “That was close!”
Sometimes we barely skirt disaster, tragedy, or death. Sometimes we almost touch fame or fortune. We ponder afterwards, “That was close!” After “9/I1” I remember reading in the newspaper accounts from people who typically would have been at work inside one of the World Trade Towers, but on that particular morning due to various circumstances they weren’t. Some of those people speculate, “Would I have survived that day had I been there?”
John Wooden was one of the greatest college basketball coaches in history. He led UCLA to ten NCAA championships. In 1948 he interviewed for the Univ. of MN Gophers coaching job. He also interviewed with UCLA. He was supposed to receive a telephone call from MN on the evening of a given date. Due to a heavy snow storm the phone lines went down and the athletic director was unable to confirm with Mr. Wooden that the coaching position was his. In turn, Coach Wooden accepted the UCLA position instead. Some Gopher boosters speculate, “Would Coach Wooden have had the same rate of success at MN?”
.......“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near”......
In Matthew 4:17 Jesus began his preaching ministry proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.” How can we understand this one sentence sermon? Is it that Jesus ‘embodies’ the power of God, and when Jesus is near by, then the power of God is also present?
In other words, if the kingdom of God (or heaven) is mobile you better hang around with Jesus. Tomorrow the kingdom might be long gone. Will this kingdom of heaven come near again tomorrow?
I think Jesus is saying that the Lord God is beginning a new ‘way’ or ‘covenant’ or ‘promise.’ God’s reign will be established through Christ. We know this will be the result of a crucifixion and resurrection, but for the Gospel story line people this had not yet occurred. Here today; gone tomorrow, will be changed to, “Lo I will be with you always.” (Mt. 28:20)
In Mt. 4:23 we read that Jesus went throughout Galilee teaching, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and sickness among the people. Imagine if some ill people were not present when Jesus performed those miracles. Many might lament saying, “I was so close to the miracle man, if only I had been there. Will I ever get a second opportunity?” That was close!
........“Follow me and I will make you fish for people”......
Jesus invites (‘calls’) four fisherman to “follow me.” These first four disciples will learn ‘by grace’ what it means to live under the reign of God. Jesus will bless them with spiritual power to travel throughout the world as his servants or ‘apostles.’ They are to teach, heal, and extend the presence of God’s reign. They are to ‘embody’ the kingdom of heaven. They are to bring the ‘kingdom of heaven near’ to all they encounter.
We teach that the Lord God Almighty works through Christians bringing the good news of Christ crucified and risen to others. We are to model the love of Christ for others. This way, hopefully, the love of Christ ‘comes near’ to others. When we try to live out our faith in Christ we hope that others can say, “Christ came close to me today.”
..........Bundled together in & for the love of Christ........
Once I was using a well-worn kitchen sweeping broom to brush away accumulated dirt on roof boards after removing two layers of cedar shingles. There were row upon row of small headed shingle nails sticking up an inch or so. I thought it would be easier to see all the nails that needed to be pulled out if I had the board surface somewhat free from all the dirt. Besides that, then I could sit on a less slippery surface, one free of all the dirt particles. As I swiped the broom back and forth with vigor the bunching strings holding the broom straws together would sometimes get hooked on the nail heads. It was an old broom so I just pulled harder even if it meant that some of the bunching –tie strings broke. Before too long I broke far too many bunching strings and the broom straws recoiled outward in all directions, scattering on the roof boards. The wind gusts blew most of them away. The sweeping idea was short-lived.
Christ has claimed us in Baptism. Christ calls us through the various ‘means of grace.’ People invite us into specific congregations. The love of Christ ‘comes near’ us through the friendship and ministry of others. Christ bunches us together as forgiven sinners and sends us out to give witness to the Gospel. Tied together in Christ’s love we work at sweeping away the accumulated affects of sin. We are often pushed hard, but we stay strong and seek to accomplish the Lord’s tasks. When the love of Christ does not unite and bind us together we become much less effective in our witness. Like individual broom straws, we are blown away and fail to bring the kingdom of heaven near for others.
Dear Lord Jesus, bind us together in your love. Give us the power to repent from our sins, so that your grace may abound in us. Send us out to bring the kingdom of heaven near to all we encounter. Comfort us in our sorrows, and bring us to eternal life with Christ. Amen.
...................Centennial Reminder....................
Sunday, February 13th will be the one hundredth anniversary of PLC’s organizational charter. I hope you can attend Worship that day. We are pleased that our Synod Bishop, Rev. Jon Anderson will be our guest. We will attempt to present a ‘flavor’ of what worship and church life was like for our original members. We will enjoy a special time of anniversary cake and coffee fellowship in between our worship service times. Thanks be to God for the privilege of partnership in the Gospel at PLC. PB
Praising God, Encouraging faith, Advancing Christ’s Examples.
.....................January 2011.....................
“Into the Way of Peace”
Dear Members & Friends of PLC:
Anna Johnson was a delightful ninety three year old ‘girl of the prairie’ when I first met her in 1981. Anna’s family and the Charles Ingalls’ family were neighbors in North Hero Township, through which the Plum Creek meanders, just a few miles north of Walnut Grove, MN. Anna was one of my congregational members when I served at Trinity Lutheran Church, Walnut Grove, from 1981 – 1986. Anna was amused and amazed at the many changes she experienced throughout her life of almost ninety six years. One of the expressions I remember her saying on a regular basis was, “Well, that’s different.” I suppose that anyone could very easily state such a response when comparing almost a century’s worth of life.
Miracle Conceptions: “Well, that’s different.”
The good Lord’s timetable for saving humanity is a mystery to me. Starting with Genesis chapter twelve we read about God choosing Abraham and Sarah to be the conduits of blessing for all families. God does this by a miraculous conception: the ninety year old Sarah is pregnant. The century old Abraham is the expectant father. Sarah’s common sense and grasp of the absurd is not lost upon hearing that she will become a mother - she laughs, probably a full blown ‘belly laugh.’ O, our Lord God wasn’t deterred. Sure enough, a baby Isaac, ‘the promised child’ was born, and thus a pathway of ‘begats’ toward the Messiah is put in place. Very old people becoming biological parents; “Well, that’s different!”
The ‘First Covenant’ or ‘Old Testament’ needed amending. It seems that God’s plan for people to learn and live out his holy laws, the Torah, fell on stubborn ears or as Scripture says, ‘hard hearts.’ God went back to his workshop of ideas. If humanity will not or cannot keep my Torah, then I must send them my Son, was God’s reasoning. God’s ‘New Covenant’ also involved a miraculous conception. We read in Matthew 1:18, “Mary was engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit.” I know it is an understatement but, “Well, that’s different!”
How does Luke choose to begin the Gospel of Jesus Christ?
One of the first people named in St. Luke’s Gospel is a priest named Zechariah who is assigned to work at the Jerusalem Temple. His wife’s name is Elizabeth. Guess what we learn about this couple? In Lk. 1:7 it reads, “They had no children because Elizabeth could not have any, and she and Zechariah were both very old.” Does this sound familiar? Do you hear echoes of the Abraham and Sarah story? Luke makes a connection and chooses to begin his version of the ‘New Covenant’ of Jesus Christ with a ‘miraculous conception’ similar to that of the ‘Old Covenant’ God made with Abraham and Sarah.
Just as Isaac was an unexpected ‘child of promise,’ so too, Zechariah and Elizabeth become the parents of John the Baptist, also an unexpected child of destiny. John will fulfill necessary Old Testament prophecy as the expected herald proclaiming the advent of God’s salvation bringing Messiah.
At the end of Luke chapter one Zechariah regained his voice upon the birth of his son. He was struck mute temporarily because he doubted the Angel Gabriel’s promise that a son will be born. Once again, an advanced aged couple has difficulty believing that they will become parents. Now Zechariah is filled with the Holy Spirit and speaks words of praise and prophecy as written in Luke 1:67-79.
Zechariah blesses God for God’s mercy, God’s remembrances of promises, and then proclaims what his son is destined to accomplish for God. Zechariah then concludes with a proclamation in verse 79:
“Our God…gives light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.”
Our Centennial Bible Verse & Theme
Throughout 2011 we will celebrate one hundred years of life and ministry at Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church. We will use Luke 1:79 as our verse and theme. We will summarize it as: “Our God guides our feet into the way of peace.”
The paralyzing grip of specific sins is lessened as we have ‘the light of Christ’ through grace pointing out to us the need to confess and repent. With our new understanding of forgiveness we in turn are empowered in our service to the Gospel. The way of God’s love has been revealed to us. No longer are we compelled to remain in darkness. The penalty of sin is removed by the grace of God in Christ. The shadow of death gives way to the hope of eternal life. Human lives were once defined by only ‘darkness & death’ but now we are blessed with the grace given gifts of ‘service & hope’ as well.
Our God provides us such gifts by calling us to faith through the Holy Spirit. God’s Spirit gathers us together in his ‘Body of Christ.’ In this sense God ‘guides our feet’ to the places of peace.
I hope you will agree that our centennial Bible verse can have a double meaning. First, as described above, life in Christ does leave us with ‘the way of peace.’ Second, for one hundred years our Heavenly Father has guided you and hundreds of others ‘into the way of Peace…Lutheran Church.’
Planned Celebrations
We have several committees working on aspects of celebrating our centennial. Three major events will include:
(1) “Charter Day” - Peace Evangelical Lutheran Church was chartered on February 13, 1911. This year February 13th is a Sunday. We will ‘revisit’ some aspects of Worship from one hundred years ago. Perhaps you should brush up on your German. We will try to offer a glimpse of what faithfulness to Christ looked like a century ago. What were the ‘church issues’ of the day? What challenges did the charter members face? What were some of the sentiments, hopes, dreams, and prayers of our earliest members? We hope to have a festive Worship experience. We will host a special Fellowship Hour. Perhaps we will have Synod staff personnel as guests along with former members and pastors.
(2) “Confirmation Class Reunion Celebration” – Sunday, June 26th. We are extending invitations to all those living who through the years have confirmed their faith at PLC. We will have a festive morning Worship. We will have a catered meal, time for reminiscing, and a Reunion Program after dinner. The committee people are putting a lot of effort into making this an enjoyable and meaningful event/day. We hope some of our former pastors can be our guests. We hope to have Synod representatives as guests too. We hope we fill up our facilities with people wishing to enjoy the friendship of brothers and sisters in Christ. We hope it feels like ‘homecoming, a family reunion, and a mission festival all-in-one.’
(3) Fall Festival / Fund raiser celebration – Sunday, September 25th. Our third gathering will seek God’s continued blessing upon our life and ministry at PLC. Similar to Old Testament harvest festivals, we will pledge our lives in God’s Grace, and renew ourselves to God’s covenant with us. We are considering opening and then adding to a time capsule. We will sign our names to a Centennial Blessing & Prayer document. We will highlight the faithfulness of all those who have contributed to the history of PLC. We will honor the memory of previous members. In the early afternoon after our Fund Raiser meal we will have a Centennial Program, again welcoming guests, sharing memories, and seeking God’s blessings as we enter the next century of life and ministry at PLC.
The above is a sketch of some ideas associated with our committees’ works in progress. I ask you to pray for our efforts as we seek to fulfill our mission motto: Praising God, Encouraging faith, Advancing Christ’s Examples.
As we say “Good bye” to 2010…
Thank you for your partnership in the Gospel. Thanks for your enthusiasm, your ideas & input for various ministries and causes, your dedication & efforts, your friendship & loyalty, your kindness & generosity, your prayers & financial support. Thank you for your personal support, patience, prayers on my behalf, and acceptance of my family. I thank God for the privilege to serve PLC. I ask God to help and guide me as I serve Christ along with you. I look forward to our Centennial year, and leave you with some Navaho Wisdom.
Wisdom of the Elders
My children, life is like a river- clean, clear and inviting. But it is also deep, and the current is swift. As you are crossing this river, remember to hang on to each other, because if you ever let go of each other, the strong current will sweep you away to death.
So hang on to each other with love, through talking, listening, understanding and forgiveness. When someone falls behind, help them. If someone takes a wrong path, turn them back to the right path. If someone is ill, stop and help and pray. Don’t forget each other. Take care of each other because the river is deep and wide and the current is swift. Don’t let go of each other…make sure you and all reach the other bank safely.
“Into the Way of Peace”
Our God…gives light to those who sit in darkness and in the shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace. (Luke 1:79)
Thanks be to God for life and salvation in Christ our Lord. Peace, PBob
---December 2010
“Advent – Here We Go Again…”
Dear Members & Friends of PLC:
November 28th was observed as the ‘First Sunday in Advent.’ Advent is the Church’s emphasis on helping the faithful prepare, again, to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. The liturgical season of Advent marks the beginning of a ‘new church year.’ That is why I chose the above title, “Advent – Here We Go Again.”
The November 28th Sunday Worship Bible Readings were: Isaiah 2:1-5, Romans 13:11-14, and Matthew 24:36-44. In the latter two readings both the Apostle Paul and Jesus challenge us to ‘wake from sleep’ for we know neither the day nor hour of the Lord’s coming. Isaiah proclaims the day when God will gather all people on his holy mountain and then, there will be no more war or suffering. Though we might vigilantly watch for the promised day of salvation, in the mean time Christ comes to us as ‘Word of God’ and strengthens our faith through the promises of the Sacraments.
Here We God Again…
The phrase, “Here We Go Again” can suggest a pending experience that is ‘episodic,’ one that cycles periodically. Or, it can also infer an experience that is ‘chronic,’ a long lasting affair. On the ‘big picture’ scale such examples might include the current dust-up on the Korean peninsula. It seems that over the past decades every time North Korea wants the ‘west’ to give them aid, they rattle their weapons, or last week even fire them at South Korea. In response the U.S. gives them food and fuel aid. “Here we go again, but will there be different results this time?” Can we say the same thing about the restarting of ‘peace talks’ between Israel and the Palestinians? Also, can we say the same thing about the so-called newly constituted coalition government in Iraq? One more example, the Vikings play next Sunday; “Here we go again…”
At the personal level the phrase applies as well. Some PLC members have filled out over a dozen job resumes, and have undergone several job interviews. Upon entering into another interview could their thinking be, “Here I go again, but will there be job offer this time?” Some PLC members have episodic flair-ups with certain chronic health conditions. How often does someone in the middle of the night wake up to pain and think, “Oh no, not this again. Must I undergo more appointments, scans and tests? This time will the outcome be more favorable?” The same could be said about relationships within families; a past resentment surfaces; personality insecurities might lead to withdrawal; intentions are misinterpreted, etc. “Here we go again, the holidays are coming with the same simmering family tensions, but this time will the results be different? Might everyone have a decent time?
Advent
‘Here we go again’ is apt for describing our new season of Advent. It is time to prepare for Christmas. Themes of ‘hope’ and ‘joyful anticipation’ are noted. Christians are reminded to wait in confidence because God is a ‘God of action.’ God comes, saves, works goodness in people, renews lives, etc. ‘Re-words’ are emphasized: restore, recreate, rejoice, renew, return, repair, remember, repent. As noted above we read about turning, “Swords into plowshares and spears into pruning hooks.” Is it tempting to say in response, “Yeah, right. Where is this supposed to happen? We’ve heard this for years, but will it actually happen this time?”
People Under Siege
I notice that much of Bible history is characterized as ‘people under siege.’ I think we can say that about the November 28th Bible lessons. Isaiah saw the threat of powerful military neighbors who will conquer the Old Testament people. Romans and Matthew were written when imperial Rome imposed its code of expectations upon early Christian communities. Bible writers responded by asking, “How long O God before you intervene? When will Christ return to finish your Kingdom work? Where is God? When will God fulfill all the promises made in the days of old?”
Is it accurate to say that modern day Christians might see life as ‘under siege?” For some it could even be a perpetual siege, whereby one is plagued by constant worry, resentment, fear, guilt, shame, anger, etc. I think that people under siege can have their hope dulled. People can even be lulled into a sleeplike existence. Are some of us even figuratively speaking, “Sleepwalking through life?” It is in response to these types of descriptions that the Advent Bible texts shout out, “Wake-up and Keep awake!” Yes indeed, “Here we go again,” Yet this time it can be different. You can trust and live into all of God’s promises!
I’ve been told by military members that trust in platoon/group mates is essential. One expression is, “He’s/she’s got my back.” That saying paints the picture. When concentrating on what’s in front or within your peripheral line of vision, you need to trust another person to protect your back/blind side. Is it accurate to call this a ‘back strategy?’
A Back Strategy for not giving up Hope
I offer you this mnemonic Advent ‘hope preserving’ four point strategy based on the letters of the word ‘back.’ Focus on these four points of thought and their application and perhaps as you travel through this Advent season you will experience less ‘sleep walking.’ You might overcome or avoid a past sense of being ‘under siege.’ This time as you go through Advent, you really will feel that the past status quo is removed. Just maybe this time, for you, Advent will feel like a new beginning. Bring on hope! Let me feel renewed. I want to feel energetic and confident about life, again).
B.A.C.K.
B. Belong to others… I let ‘B’ remind me to stay connected with those who are important to me. Stay connected with your congregation, the ‘Body of Christ.’ I hope you hear God’s call to you in Baptism. When you belong to others the opportunity to give and receive care is present. Recently, one of our church members had a sister who died. This is a very sad & difficult time for her and her family as you might well understand. She has written on her Face Book page that, “I don’t know how we would get through this without all your expressions of support, friendship, and Christian love. We are truly grateful.” When we belong to others we are able to rise above our own needs and respond to a perceived greater need of our neighbor in Christ. When we belong to others we make ourselves available to receive care from them in times of need. Belonging to others provides us with the necessary ‘give & take’ actions that lift our spirits and elevates our humanity. We become less cynical. We feel the world is not so cold and uncaring after all. This time we can feel different!
A. Acknowledge your pain… The letter ‘A’ reminds me to acknowledge my physical & emotional pain; to admit my sin and need of a Savior; to ask help from our Heavenly Father in the name of Christ. Humility is a spiritual gift. It is a blessing to reach the point of asking the Lord, “Come Lord Jesus, help me for I can’t do life alone (anymore).” Indeed, Christ came into the world to help fulfill these types of needs. When we extend this pattern with others we take the brave first steps of seeking reconciliation. We initiate a renewal of relationship with others who we want in our lives. This is hard work, but usually there are no short cuts to restoring relationships. It’s a huge relief to acknowledge to Christ that we are mere sinners. We can get out of the way to let God bless us with courage, perseverance, confidence, hope, etc. Dear Lord, I want your help! I don’t want to ‘play God’ anymore. Help me sense how you walk with me every day to face life. If so, then life seems so much easier. This time we can feel different.
C. Confess Christ crucified… By grace may we hear that Christ has died for our sin. I encourage you to read frequently, or even memorize 2 Corinthians 12:8-10. The Apostle Paul puts into perspective his views on struggles, suffering, and often feeling overwhelmed by life. In other words, he knows there is the temptation to give into cynicism and despair. He says,
The Lord spoke to me saying, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.” So I will boast all the more gladly of my weakness, so that the power of Christ may dwell in me. Therefore I am content with weakness, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities for the sake of Christ, for whenever I am weak, then I am strong.
Just think of your attitude change and the immeasurable power boost gained from Christ’s presence with you. I hope this Advent you will feel strong with the abiding love of Christ crucified and risen. Indeed, with the forgiveness of sin and power of Christ’s love, this time we can feel different.
K. Know you make a difference…
I think apathy is a great thief. It robs us of hope. People say, “Why bother? What good will it do? Nobody else cares. There’s no use trying.” Etc. No doubt many problems or challenges seem like ‘steep climbs.’ Life within the Body of Christ teaches that together we can be a blessing. We can make positive contributions to the well-being of others. We can make a huge difference. For example, our youth group collected Food Shelf food items this past October. We delivered over 1,100 pounds of foodstuffs. Individually, Winthrop residents gave a couple cans of this or a box of that. Each household alone doesn’t fill many boxes. On the other hand, a whole community canvassing did yield almost two pick-up truck loads. When we pray and ask the Lord to bless our humble efforts perhaps we can duplicate the results sometimes associated with biblical miracles. Here we go again, reacting to a need, or challenge, or problem, but this time we can feel different.
Summary
We begin a new church year. Advent will proclaim, “Get ready to celebrate the joy of Jesus!” Here we go again, but this time is it different? It can be. We desire it to be filled with hope and not apathy. Will it be different? The love of Christ can break the siege! The Holy Spirit can wake us from our lulled sleep. Jesus Christ is born, and crucified, and risen, and will return. Jesus our Lord and Savior has your back, and seeks to bless your life. Christ calls you today to: Belong to his Body… Acknowledge your pain… Confess Christ crucified… Know you make a difference.
Thank you for your partnership in the Gospel
As we approach the end of 2010, I say again, “Thank you” for all that you do for PLC in the name of Christ. Without your ministry we fail to exist. You pray, worship together, give money to support our budget needs, volunteer for tasks, forgive each other, practice patience, support our lay leaders, and set good examples, etc. I am thankful for our lives together. I look forward to our centennial celebration in 2011. I ask God to help and guide us daily. Thank you also for all the kindness extended to me, Judy, Hannah, and Maren. We are grateful. I pray that each one of us will have the joy of Christ’s love within.
Have a meaningful Advent season. God’s Christmas peace be with you. Sincerely PB
----------------------November 2010----------------------------
“Thanksgiving: What do you give (back) to a God who already has everything?”
Dear Members & Friends of PLC:
Whenever you refused to help one of the least important ones (a person in true need), it is as if you refused to help me. – Mt. 25:45
These words are part of the teaching from Jesus in Matthew 25:31-46 regarding how the Son of Man will judge souls on the “Day of Judgment.”
..............“Trick of Treat so that others can eat”
On October 20th over thirty PLC middle school students canvassed our community of Winthrop gathering food items donated by households for the Sibley County Food Shelf. I’m guessing that we collected over 1,500 pounds of food. I offer my compliments to the citizens for their generosity, to our adult volunteers for their leadership, and to our students for their empathy in wanting other county residents with legitimate needs to have access to additional food stuffs.
I hope all who contributed toward or participated in this faith service project will feel that they helped put into practice the Mt. 25:45 Bible verse. I believe that this is a great example of observing the meaning of Thanksgiving. You “give thanks” to God by giving aid (as you are able) to other people in true need. I think our Heavenly Father grieves when congregations and individuals fail to do such.
...............Will the “Crystal Cathedral” shatter?
I read with curiosity that the church & broadcasting enterprise associated with the Rev. Dr. Robert H. Schuller of Garden Grove, in Orange County, CA has filed for bankruptcy. It seems that the 84 year old TV evangelist/preacher’s grown children & spouses have irreconcilable opinions over spending & programming directions. As a result, the church ‘empire’ owes anywhere from $43 to $55 million plus. How ironic given that Dr. Shuller wrote a book in 1984 entitled, “Living Debt Free.” The long running Sunday TV ministry now can only afford a thirty minute production, although it is still broadcast as “The Hour of Power.” I suppose renaming it “The Half Hour of Power” would be too embarrassing.
The commentary I read about this family/church dilemma suggested that millions were borrowed to finance a movie production that bombed, and a museum to honor the elder Dr. Schuller. It didn’t say anything about using money to help the poor, the marginalized within our society, or mission development, etc. In other words, money was spent on buildings and family staff salaries & pet projects. I wonder, to what extent did this TV ministry respond to the humanitarian crisis in Haiti?
..............Meanwhile: in another part of Orange County…
I read on the internet about a pastor names Ken Eastburn from “The Well Church” also located in Orange County, CA. Pastor Eastburn emphasizes a movement called “Leave the Building.” Now, I am not suggesting that for PLC, but let me summarize Pastor Ken’s thought with some statistics he shares on his website: www.leavethebuildingblog.com.
In the U.S. about $21.5 billion is spent annually on church buildings: remodeling, new construction, utilities, insurance, etc. “Imagine, he says, “of all that could be accomplished if dedicated building funds were shifted to evangelism efforts or meeting humanitarian needs.” Pastor Eastburn states that in Orange County there are about 900 protestant congregations. He figures that if each church would cut their building expenditures by just ten percent, there would be about $7 million for ministry programs for the poor and vulnerable in Orange County. The Well Church copied Elvis: “They left the building.” Pastor Ken’s members meet in their homes, similar to the initial ‘house church’ phenomenon in the New Testament letters of the Apostle Paul.
Is it safe to assume that The Well Church has given a greater percentage of their budget to humanitarian needs, such as helping orphans in Haiti, than the Crystal Cathedral has? I think Pastor Eastburn does raise a challenging issue. All congregations should strive to be as efficient as possible with their building/maintenance funds so that the greatest amount possible is available for humanitarian ministry concerns.
...............Ms. Amy Twedt & certain kids in Haiti
On Sunday, October 24th we welcomed to PLC, Ms. Amy Twedt and some of her children. Amy lives near Fergus Falls, MN and is founder of an adoption agency. Her website is www.godschildrenadoption.com. She is a friend of Ms. Rhyan Buettner, who has relatives in Gibbon, and has a working relationship with an orphanage in Haiti call the Foyer Des Petits Orphanage. Amy has been to Haiti several times this year since the January earthquake. She is inviting congregations to help sponsor
specific rebuilding/refurnishing needs at this orphanage. She also seeks to help U.S. families adopt babies/kids from this orphanage.
We hosted a fundraiser for this orphanage assistance project. I believe our total funds raised were under $500.00, certainly not enough to carry the orphanage very far with their rebuilding/operation needs, but nevertheless, Amy assured us that every dollar will be bundled with other congregations’ donations to make the significant improvement in the lives of the forty-one children currently under care at this orphanage. I feel that our combined efforts can represent a “Thanksgiving celebration.” We are thanking God for all our blessings by giving back (even modestly) to the needs of others, and in this specific case, the children at the Foyer des Petits Orphanage.
I am proud of PLC for our willingness to support humanitarian needs. Hopefully, we approach and copy “The Well Church’s” example of spending more for the welfare of others, and less for our own comforts. May our Lord bless the ministry efforts of Rhyan, Amy, and the others working Haiti.
...............Monkey Business
As an elementary grade school kid, I remember a phrase I used to say when I had no specific demands upon my time. In response to the question, “What are you doing?” I would reply, “Nothing, just monkeying around.” I don’t know why “monkeying around” was an answer. Was it because we read the “Curious George” books that told tales of a curious monkey? Or, was it because we watched Tarzan movies on TV and knew about the exploits of the beloved chimpanzee named “Cheetah?” Also I remember hearing adults sometimes say to kids, “Now, I don’t want any monkey business going on!”
...............The 100th Monkey
Let me summarize for you a story that some call an “urban legend.”
Some have tried to substantiate the events, and concluded that this never happened. Some in the motivation or “new age spiritualism” movement refer to it as a source of inspiration and hope. It is an account of monkey business as told in a book by Mr. Ken Keyes, Jr.
Researchers in 1952 observed the behavior of a colony of Macaca fuscata monkeys on the Japanese island of Koshima. The monkeys were given raw sweet potatoes as a food source. One 18 month old female that the researchers named “Imo” took her sweet potato to a stream and washed off the sand before eating the vegetable. Imo then was observed to have taught the washing idea to her mother. Soon some playmates of Imo copied her practice of washing the sweet potato, and in turn, these juvenile monkeys taught their mothers as well. This trend of increasing numbers of monkeys washing their vegetables occurred between 1952 and 1958.
In the fall of 1958, the researchers speculated that close to one hundred monkeys were now washing the sweet potatoes. Then one evening the scientists noticed that every monkey was now washing. What could explain the “jump” from ‘the many’ to ‘the entirety’ of the colony washing before eating? At the same time researchers on the island of Takasakiyana noticed that within a day’s change the whole colony of monkeys there started washing sweet potatoes before eating! How did the recently developed washing habit “jump the sea?”
This has been referred to as the “One Hundredth Monkey Effect.” The idea is, say for example, 99 monkeys were washing their vegetables. When the one-hundredth monkey began washing, then a “critical number” was reached whereby a thought or behavior was automatically communicated from “mind to mind” not only on one island, but also to colonies on other islands.
What do you make of this “monkey business?” Is it interesting to speculate on what a “one-hundredth monkey effect” would look like with human behavior? For example, what if a certain number of people who confessed Christ as Lord and Savior, decided to respond to the humanitarian needs of the suffering people in Haiti (or elsewhere)? Is there a “critical number” whereby suddenly, every person responded to the humanitarian needs that surround us? Are you grinning to yourself as you think about the joy of such a response? Is there something about the working of the Holy Spirit within and around us that could make this “monkey business” possible?
...............Summary
The Gospel reading for Sunday, October 24th was Luke 18:9-14. Jesus tells a parable about two guys praying. One is “Pharisee,” a Jewish person who was seen as successfully living out the duties and commandments of the religious Law. The other guy was a “tax collector,” also a Jewish person who was seen as a traitorous, religiously defiled low life. In the parable (please read it), as the Pharisee prays, he brags about his faithfulness. We would point out his smug sense of self-righteousness. By contrast, the tax collector humbly and shamefully says, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner.” Jesus gives an interpretation to the parable saying that the tax collector went home “justified”, meaning that God accepted the prayer and granted the petitioner’s request. Jesus concludes by saying in verse 14, “For all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.”
I like to think that humble people (like the tax collector guy) are generous people. Tax collector types know they need forgiveness. When by grace, they hear that sin is forgiven, they are incredibly thankful. In turn they want to give back to God, hopefully by giving help and money to humanitarian needs, such as helping orphans in Haiti, etc. I hope you experience great joy every time you give back to God, no matter how modest the amount. I encourage you to choose a humanitarian cause or several, and donate as you can. We have many options with our ELCA and PLC ministries. Find joy in your efforts to live out generosity in the name of Christ.
How many tax collector types does it take before poverty is eliminated, or before the humanitarian needs of Haiti are fulfilled, etc.? Does a “one-hundredth tax collector effect” exist? Now, that would be “monkey business” worthy of Christ. Thank you for your partnership in the Gospel.
This Thanksgiving, what can you give (back) to a God who already has everything? Peace be with you. PB
