Ablazing prose and poetry...

Sunday's Coming

2010-05-09T17:42:00.000-11:00

"Sunday's Coming" Movie Trailer from North Point Media on Vimeo.

Kroger sighting

2010-02-15T14:43:00.002-11:00

It's been awhile since I've reported my snooping at the grocery store. This evening the girl in front of me was purchasing:
Ingredients for chili
Bottled water
Diapers
Beer
Cigarettes

and she was lacking a wedding ring. Nice.

This was after a parking lot incident where I heard "oh, f***" from a mother because her child had fallen out of the car. She seemed a little distracted laughing with the person she was with- but that's my outside observation.

Yikes!

Please, don't pet your wife in public

2010-01-17T07:00:00.002-11:00

My church is starting a "contemporary" service this spring (They are looking for a name to call it, if you have any suggestions). The new worship leader was there today. During the annoncements he and his wife stood up and while he was talking about how great she was he kept playing with her hair and rubbing her shoulder. Not the first impression I was looking for. He played the guitar fine, so his thumbs must work, so maybe he can button up his shirt next time and I won't have to see the tee shirt underneath.

Rubber, meet Road

2009-11-11T03:26:00.003-11:00

What do you think of this as a "protest" idea:

We get some couples together. We stand, blindfolded, XXX feet away from the abortion clinic (I don't know what the law says as far as how far away we need to be). We hold signs that say "I will adopt your baby and my insurance will pay your medical bills". And we have a box of resumes in front of us with contact info, income, etc...basically the "Dear Birth-mother" package that you'd create for a domestic adoption. The blindfolds are to help with any shame/guilt the mother might be feeling. The idea is to give them another option, peacefully, silently, right there.

Here's the catch: If one of them calls you'd better adopt that kid.

Thoughts?

Exhortation

2009-11-04T14:50:00.003-11:00

I'm going to take some potential liberties with copyright law...this is the "Writing" from the Treasury of Daily Prayer for today:

[Luther] taught that good works do not save a person, but only faith, without good works....He did not say that, to be saved, a person must have faith and, in addition to that, good works, or love; but he did teach that those who would be saved must have a faith that produces love spontaneously and is fruitful in good works. That does not mean that faith saves on account of love which springs from it, but that the faith which the Holy Spirit creates and which cannot but do good works justifies because it clings to the gracious promises of Christ and because it lays hold of Christ. It is active in good works because it is genuine faith. The believer need not at all be exhorted to do good works; his faith does them automatically. The believer engages in good works, not from a sense of duty, in return for the forgiveness of his sins, but chiefly because he cannot help doing them. It is altogether impossible that genuine faith should not break forth from the believer's heart in works of love.

I especially want to draw attention to the last portion of that, about how the believer is compelled to do good works. He can't help it! Walther is clear in what he's saying there...there's no ambiguity. And it's something I've thought for quite awhile as well.

So...the question is, what place for exhortation in the congregation? Should the pastor get up there on Sunday and prod the congregation to do good works? Walther seems to say "no". Walther says that Luther would say "no". I favor "no", because if the good works are not happening, then we don't have a crisis of works, we have a crisis of faith! And stewardship Sunday does not create saving faith. Neither do sermons on the great commission, as the Ablaze movement is so fond of. Sermons about the Christ and his Good Work do. A liturgy centered on Word and Sacrament does. If we believed that saving faith leads to works, we would be worried about creating saving faith.

There is another possibility, though. It's completely possible that there is no crisis of faith at all, for now. It could be that good works are taking place, but a certain organization wants them to take a particular form. The good works you do on the highway for your fellow drivers, or at work for your coworkers, or at home for your family or neighbors...they're not recognized as good works. So the exhortation comes to do particular good works. The more sturdy of us see what's going on, and continue living as we should. The weaker brothers see which works "count" as good in the eyes of the movement, and worry that they don't have saving faith because their "critical event" counter is a bit short.

So...either way we seem to have a problem. Either we believe that saving faith doesn't automatically produce good works, or we believe that only particular good works "count". Neither conclusion is particularly appealing.

Does every church have one?

2009-10-20T11:50:00.004-11:00

There's an usher at church who is one of those "well-meaning people" and he just made me laugh this past Sunday.

The Bible study to which I attend usually takes place in the gym. This past Sunday, there were some displays in there, so we all visited those and then started our group approximately 15 min later than normal in the sanctuary. Said usher, was already preparing for his Sunday duties when we entered. I'm not exactly sure on the timing, I believe the organist had shown up at this point, but still VERY early for the service. A parishioner came in, saw that there was a group there and politely exited. Mr. Usher came over to me and said "there's a lady that sits in that pew every week and she's here, so you're gonna need to move".

Seriously?

Deaconess said to him "'Parishioner' saw we are in here, it's ok"

Crotchety old usher didn't reply but acted kind of gruff. I did move, our Bible study finished and church began.

Did I mention this guy has a cane? Sometimes when I go up for communion, I'm slightly worried that he's going to attack me with it, if I don't move fast enough (he seems to care more about speed than reverence). I don't know that I've seen him smile.

I had noticed that Pastor had seemed to drain the communion wine out of the vessel and of course, before my turn to drink from the common cup (I've not been skipped anymore) crotchety usher said in an anxious tone, "Pastor, do you need more?". I was amazed at the calmness of the Pastor when he smoothly replied, "No, it's ok".

Yikes... At least I can find it amusing; I've heard it's bad to hit the elderly in church.

And PS he has a wife... I don't know her, so it makes me wonder if she is a) a saint or b) just as socially inept?

Really?!?

2009-08-22T19:00:00.003-11:00

I suppose you all have read the news about the ELCA synod this past week.

As one of their members now, I must say that I am currently feeling a bit frustrated/confused. Do I attend church in the morning? I attend church for the word and sacrament. I struggle with things that the LCMS wants to do and knew that when I joined the ELCA that it wouldn't be perfect (or did I dream that maybe it would take care of my LCMS issues?) and also thought that the church that I attend here is where I need to be (there's not a ton of options...). But really, would moving solve the problem or cause more confusion altogether?

In other news.... I was on a date with someone tonight (a second date, in fact). In more confusion, I'm not sure how I feel about it all. It's just so weird to meet someone, with the intention of dating (although it's nice for the clarity- we know that I get confused). And he seems like a nice guy but I am questioning if he is the nice guy for me? I don't want to lead him on, but would like to see how it goes... Oh My...

Time to go back to scrubbing my bathroom floor...It's what I do at 2am....

Skipped

2009-08-16T05:50:00.003-11:00

Two weeks ago, I got skipped at the communion rail.

Last week I was away for the weekend and went to a different church (did not get skipped).

Today, again, I was given the bread, which I consumed and then the Pastor with the common cup just kept on walking. They do it differently at times, but lately they have done communion where they first have the Diaconal minister with the bread, the Pastor with the common cup and then they have an elder with a bowl with wine for intinction and no individual cups. The first time that this happened I kind of waved and the Pastor saw me and came and gave it to me and this second time I didn't get his attention. I know that the presence is in both the bread and wine, but it does feel* kind of awkward to just receive one when both are offered. And I don't mean to be a common cup snob, it's just what I do and it's not like I've changed behavior but maybe am not indicating properly.

*My father would probably criticize me for using the word "feel" in that sentence, so you can, too.*

Any suggestions? I am comfortable talking to him, so may just say something or may just start flailing my arms about.

The Gospel

2009-07-08T14:27:00.004-11:00

I need to hear it.

I've begun to lead a Bible Study. Really, I'm just hosting a group of people to go through a book (it's a workbook going through the New Testament). Tonight was our second week and I was pleased at how it went. If nothing else, it gets me into the Word which I need to hear (selfish, I know). I sometimes struggle with the person who I am on Saturday night vs the person I am on Sunday morning and this weekends was one of those where I felt ugly going to church. I thought about not going, but knew that I needed to hear what was said. I still was in a bit of a funk this week and I wasn't sure about how tonight would go, but through God, there was some good people that showed up and I think that they enjoyed it and learned something from it. I'm thankful that He was able to use me to speak to others (and will try to stop questioning His judgment).

My Voice, part II

2009-04-30T14:23:00.002-11:00

I went to the meeting last night. It had some interesting parts. I remained silent for most of the 2 hour meeting, until one of the married people asked my opinion. She also made a slip of saying something about not being important until you have children. Thanks... We all laughed though.

I think that some people were frustrated that their kids want to go to other church's events and don't usually bring their friends to ours. It just makes me wonder about how some of the parents issues effect that of their children.

I think the leader of the meeting did a good job refocusing the group, along with one of the mothers (who has an adorable baby). Overall, I think it lasted too long and if they have a follow up to this one, I think I might be washing my hair that night.

Ready to jump

2009-04-26T07:44:00.004-11:00

For the first time here, I went to bible study after church (I even went to the early service). I don't know what took me so long. Last night I had been at a youth dinner at church and enjoyed it and have been thinking about being involved with the high school group, so I went to their bible study this morning (one of the leaders had told me that it was ok to come). They started off with good/bad, where they reported the good and bad of what was happening with them. When it got to me, I almost wanted to say "I just enjoy being here" but didn't want to appear overly sentimental.

I've filled out my membership paperwork, but haven't submitted it. I'm not sure what has held me back (they accepted new members today, which I could have totally been a part of). I know that I seemed to jump right into my last congregation, which I miss at many occasions, but when I think about how my life is now, I know that I needed to move on. I feel like I am finally getting ready to jump into this congregation. When I sit here today thinking about the last month or so; they, like you, have been such a blessing in my life and I'm thankful to God for that. Maybe it's that if I do join this church, I will no longer be Ablaze!

Darkness

2009-04-24T13:42:00.003-11:00

1)The people that in darkness sat
A glorious light have seen
The light has shined on them who long
In shades of death have been

5)His righteous government and pow'r
Shall over all extend;
On judgment and on justice based,
His reign shall have no end.

6)Lord Jesus, reign in us, we pray,
And make us yours alone,
Who with the Father ever are
And Holy Spirit, one.

I know this is the wrong liturgical season. However, I came home from a run tonight, got a glass of water, opened my patio door and just sat. I didn't turn on any lights- there was a light from my apartment complex (I don't live in the country like some of you desire). It was good just to sit and think. I started to think of this hymn and then had to turn on the lights to read it.

One of my good friends is big into list making. He accomplished 365 things in 365 days and is currently working on a month list. It inspired me to do a list of 10 things in 2 months. It's a novice list, but I hope to feel accomplished after it. I think I should make a number 11, being "sit in the dark".

Self-esteem boost?

2009-04-20T13:10:00.004-11:00

I asked one of my patients today if he had lost or gained any weight lately. He responded no, and that he would like to lose a few. He also said "If I had a pretty lil' thing like you to chase around, I'm sure I could lose about a hundred pounds, baby"

He was over 70 and 300#. Yikes.

My Voice

2009-04-16T15:58:00.004-11:00

I received a letter inviting me to a meeting next week at church for the young adults. It mentioned young single adults, young married adults and families. The church council president will be there to "lead an open discussion and listen to your voice".

I'm interested to see who attends. Hopefully, it won't just be a singles group- we all know how wonderfully I do with that ;) But hopefully it won't just be married folk. The church is fairly large, and I tend to go to the later service, so I don't know how many of the members fall into this category. It is mostly older people, but there are some of us youngins.

Dessert, coffee and other drinks will be served and childcare provided. Anyone want to go with me?

Trees are Underappreciated

2009-04-06T06:33:00.003-11:00

We sang LSB #454 at church this weekend, and one particular verse jumped off the page at me. I wish I had my notebook with me, because now I can't remember whether it was verse 3 or 4. Furthermore, these are not the exact words that the LSB has, but for this verse they are very close:

Faithful cross, thou sign of triumph,
Now for us the noblest tree,
None in foliage, none in blossom,
None in fruit thy peer may be;
Symbol of the world’s redemption,
For the weight that hung on thee!

I thought the imagery of the cross unequaled in foliage, blossom, or fruit was quit striking. When we started singing "None in foliage" I really wasn't sure where the sentence was going..but wow! Who ever thinks of the cross as something with foliage or blossom, or that bears fruit? And yet it bears for us the salvation of all mankind and the ultimate defeat of sin, death, and Satan. What greater fruit could there be?

The symbolism takes on even a bit more meaning when you realize it was a tree "good for food and pleasing to the eye" (Genesis 3), and presumably quite lovely in foliage and blossom as well, that Satan used to tempt mankind in the beginning. And now by a tree, infinitely more wonderful in fruit when beheld in faith, his evil is overcome.

Glory be to God for the elegance of His design that leads to such depth of imagery!

Lent

2009-04-01T15:56:00.002-11:00

I was reminded by someone this week, that Lent is a good time to go through trials. The Resurrection and the life to come is a powerful and comforting thing.

(This isn't anything new, but just something that I needed to be reminded of, and have been writing down different words of wisdom lately.)

A blessed Holy Week to you all!

Marching Orders - You're in the Army now...

2009-03-30T07:23:00.001-11:00

Publicly available from http://www.redeemerolathe.org/Newsletter/Newsletter.pdf:

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: After asking permission of Pastor Reinke, I appreciate the opportunity to address the entire congregation of Redeemer Lutheran Church of Olathe. I was given the chance to visit on February 17th, along with Rev. Mark Frith from our Kansas District office, with a number of those whom you have raised up as spiritual leaders of your church. During the evening we heard the Word of God, prayed together, and we listened to the descriptions of your spiritual leaders of where you are presently engaged in the mission of the church. I would like to share with you several things that Rev. Frith and I shared with them that evening after we listened to those you have chosen to be your spiritual leaders. Foremost: God has called and created your ministry for purpose and plan, and both are HIS. Part of the struggle that we have as local ministries is often experienced when we believe that we have either experience or observation that overrides that of the body of Christ. Part of the issues that were described to us that evening was that a minority, yet vocal group, of Redeemer have not yet given their spiritual leaders spiritual leadership. Local ministries are not democracies; they are people who are seeking together the way, the will, and the mission of God. Significant: Local ministries are called to be specific ministries. Please excuse my abuse of the language, but quoting myself from our time with your leaders, “All things that we do for and on behalf of our Lord are good, but some things are gooder”. By that I mean that He is all things to all people, you are not. But the truth of that matter is not that you can describe yourself or prescribe who you are but must seek together what God would have you be. There are three items by which God would describe and prescribe you.
First is your history, second are the present gifts of abilities, gifts, and recourses that HE has placed in your spiritual family to accomplish His purpose and plan, and third is the present setting for this ministry that involves the near community as well as the greater mission. But it must always reflect your community, neighborhood and the opportunity presented there. Any one of these are reason for longer conversation, which we had that evening, but I can assure you that you have some great spiritual leaders that “get it”. At the same time, I can admit to you that I sensed that night that there are some who struggle with those realities.
Rev. Frith and I have regularly prayed over, discussed, and considered together how we can serve you in your quest to accomplish the foremost truth that we believe must inspire the entire body of Christ at Redeemer Lutheran: God has called and created your ministry for purpose and plan, and both are HIS. May God lead you into His future in ways that build you together, give Him honor and praise, and bless those who do not yet know Him as their Savior.
In Christ’s Service,
Rev. Keith E. Kohlmeier (JN15:16)President, KS District
Rev. Mark Frith.
LCMS

Next time do it yourself, then...

2009-03-09T14:22:00.004-11:00

So about 6 weeks ago, we went to a certain retail store. We bought a lot of things. When we tried to check out, we discovered that having checkers was costing the store too much money, and besides figuring out the store's system of rebates, discounts, coupons, and special offers was just too complicated. But they did have some self-checkout machines we could use.

Fortunately, we're careful shoppers. We had our coupons, etc. organized, and we were able to use the self checkout to determine our bill and pay it. We showed our receipt to the man at the door, and he smiled as he swiped it with his highlighter and said "Have a nice day!"

So today when we got home, we discovered that we had a letter from the store. Apparently they were going through their records and decided to take a closer look at our receipt. It turns out that they don't agree with us, and think we should have to pay them a lot more than they did. The letter basically said we either have to pay them what we owe them, plus interest, or prove at our own expense that we were right to begin with.

Again...we're careful shoppers. We keep close enough track of the shopping we do, even the rebates, discounts, coupons, and special offers that apply to us. We realize that the store has made a gross miscalculation in applying all those discounts and has calculated a very different bill for us than what we paid. They just can't believe that someone would be so profligate in their use of coupons. Of course, since we're so careful, settling the dispute in our favor should be simple enough.

The point is...how arrogant! They made us figure out our bill to begin with, then when they disagree they threaten us unless we waste more time proving them wrong. Of course, if we had let them calculate our bill to begin with, they would have made the gross miscalculation anyway, and probably not given us a chance to argue with them. The really sad thing is that the store doesn't seem to realize that if they made their pricing system less complicated they wouldn't have so much overhead, and the prices of all their goods would drop significantly. That would be a big help, since this company isn't doing so well right now, with the recession and everything.

Boys are silly, but God is good

2009-03-08T12:32:00.004-11:00

At church this morning the words "Lord, have mercy. Grant us peace" really stuck out to me, especially then to receive the sacrament. It was the comfort that my girl mind (filled with cobwebs) needed to hear. Someone I know had this Luther quote on their facebook page "I would not give one moment of heaven for all the joy and riches of the world, even if it lasted for thousands and thousands of years." and reminds me that really, my earthly worries are nothing and I have so much to look forward to!

I talked to my dad for a couple of minutes today, who told me that they've been praying for me since I've been going to the "wrong kind of Lutheran church" (but really, who's "right"?). I've been going to an ELCA church in town and like it. I haven't officially joined yet, but am contemplating it. I went to one of the new member dinners, at a member's house in January and got invited to the March one- I hope the food is a little healthier, but I'm willing to give it a shot.

Quandary?

2009-02-23T05:41:00.003-11:00

Problem: Companies are holding meetings in "exotic" locations and flying "ultra-luxury" private jets using taxpayer money.

Solution 1 (government): They can't do that. We must form a task force with an overseer to force these companies to stop flying private aircraft and stop having meetings in locations that we deem inappropriate. All corporate travel must now be by hybrid car, Amtrak, or commercial airline. All future business meetings must be held locally. A 'czar' will be appointed to make sure this happens.

Solution 2 (me, and other people with common sense): Quit giving them taxpayer money.

I didn't care about their private jets and meetings in Vegas before, and I don't want to care now. I'm forced to care because I bought stock in those companies and I have a stake now. Oh wait...I was forced to by stock in those companies by my government.

Of course...even if it weren't taxpayer money, they still have private jets and I don't. And that's not fair.

Public Service Announcement

2009-02-01T10:01:00.003-11:00

Do you remember the lead paint scares of last fall? The government came to our rescue by writing some legislation that would come into effect February 10, 2009. As it was originally written, testing would be required for all child clothes and pretty much anything children touch. Not just future clothes, all clothes and toys for sale.

So, used clothes can't be bought, homemade clothes can't be bought, and quality clothes rise significantly in cost. So we all have to buy cheap clothes and toys mass produced overseas. I thought the original problem was cheap clothes and toys mass produced overseas. Oh well.

After some uproar, the CPSC decided to exempt natural materials and used clothes. At least from testing. You can still be charged if you unknowingly sell tainted used clothes.

There was still some confusion (I'm completely confused). The CPSC decided to give manufacturers another year to begin testing, but the legislation is still in effect, kinda.

What is the announcement? It was going to be hoard your used baby clothes, but now I'm not sure. Except that prices will go up.

Copyrights Run Amok

2009-01-26T03:19:00.002-11:00

I understand the point behind copyright laws. I think. I mean...the point is to make sure the artist gets paid for their work, right? Or in the case of an older copyright, to make sure the copyright holder gets paid, whoever that may be. I suppose it covers use of copyright material, or even segments of copyrighted material, in any unauthorized manner. I just think it's unfortunate that copyrights seem to be applied completely without any common sense at all.

For example, the video below used to be set to "C*n't T*ouch This", one of the classic anthems of my generation. It was, I thought, an apt choice for the content of the video. The video is 1:11 long, and the song itself is quite longer, so only a segment of the song was included. I come back a few days later, though, and instead of music find the following:

"This video contains an audio track that has not been authorized by WMG. The audio has been disabled. "

Now I ask...do you really think that anyone out there was going to buy a copy of MC Hammer and didn't because they had this video instead. Do you rather think that maybe someone saw this video and thought "Hey...Hammertime! I remember this!", and then ran or surfed right out and bought a copy? It just seems like there should be a way to allow for a usage like this that actually promotes purchasing a piece of music. I know the law isn't on my side...just a wish that corporations could be a little more thoughtful in their attempts to bleed the populace of every last nickle.

Of course...this whole thing is really just an excuse to post this video. Apparently there's an entire genre of squirrel launching videos out there. It looks like good fun, a decent deterrent, and not terribly harmful to the squirrel. Besides, we all know how squirrels crave excitement and adventure (and corn...different story).

Individual Prayer

2009-01-22T04:57:00.000-11:00

Yes, a post. Yes, it has been awhile. Because I'm lazy.

Right now there is this phenomenon of individual prayer going on at church. Every Wednesday morning at 6:15am, someone shows up to unlock the church doors so people can come in, go in to the sanctuary, and pray. No pastor is present.

I can’t completely present this without some background on another issue that I’m unwilling to discuss at this time. But I do want to think about this time of individual prayer by itself. You see, I find it “odd” (technical theological term there).

It’s odd to me because it’s a scheduled time. It’s not as though the church is just open for people to come in and pray, although I suspect they could if they come when the secretary is there to open the door for them. But we don’t bless that idea with announcements or newsletter blurbs or anything, like we do the Wednesday morning event.

It’s odd to me because there’s no pastor present. People are obviously going to pray for things that are troubling them, but there’s no one around to guide them in prayer, to comfort them, to counsel them from God’s Word, or to hear confession and pronounce forgiveness. What if someone were to suffer an emotional collapse while praying about something that deeply concerns them? What then?

It’s odd to me because it’s an invitation for the congregation to gather for individual activity. We’re actually suggesting that we come together in the sanctuary, which was constructed for the purpose of congregational gathering and corporate worship, and engage in individual activity. Remember, I’m not willing to go so far as to say this is wrong at this point. It just strikes me as odd.

It’s odd to me because I don’t understand why someone would come to the sanctuary to do what could just as well be done at home. The sanctuary is certainly a consecrated place, and certainly has a peaceful air about it. I enjoy being in there to practice the handbells, play the piano, or even just to sit and contemplate the stained glass window. I suppose that in itself is a form of individual prayer. But encouraging and promoting public individual prayer strikes me as asking for trouble. Who among us can honestly say they’re not tempted to pride at the thought of other people seeing how pious they are? Pride is a subversive and insidious sin, to be avoided with a very great deal of care. This is why Jesus encourages us to go into our room, lock the door, and pray there. It removes some of the temptation to pride. And those prayers are just as effective.

Now don’t get me wrong. I’m not going to question the sincerity of the people who proposed or condone this practice, and I’m certainly not going to judge those who show up to pray. God forbid it, and rebuke my own prideful soul! However, I also wonder whether this is an idea that sounds good in theory but may not bear up under closer inspection.

Thoughts, corrections, suggestions? I’m told I may have a narrow-minded perspective, and perhaps that’s true. That’s why I want my smart friends to help me think through this.

Embryonic Stem Cell Research

2008-11-10T05:14:00.003-11:00

This is a frustrating topic for me. It is a complex subject that even pro-life people frequently get wrong. "Hey, cures!", they think. "What could be wrong with that?" What, indeed.

Obviously we all know that embryonic stem cell research involves the destruction of a human embryo...essentially, abortion. The difference is that these embryos can be created purely for use in research, without a womb, without a mother (kind of), without intercourse. So it's not seen as abortion. Add to this lack of clarity the propaganda that promises cures, cures, cures for everything and everyone, if only the evil ignorant religious people would stop trying to dictate morality, and even the most sincere abortion opponents are convinced that stem cell research is okay.

Of course, there is another, acceptable form of research that has been far more successful. This involves using stem cells from various adult parts, given willingly with no destruction of human life. "Yes...but embryonic stem cells...woo!" You must exercise caution on this point, because a lot of misdirection occurs right here. For example, president-elect Obama ran an ad in Missouri claiming that Senator McCain was against stem cell research...not so! He's opposed to embryonic stem cell research. This is an important distinction, for it is literally the difference between life and death!

So, what am I getting at? "I know all this already", you must think, "get to the point!" "Get on with it!" Okay...I've been thinking about what we can do to combat embryonic stem cell research, since it seems that we might all be supporting it through our tax dollars soon. Here are the practical steps I've come up with:

1. Of course, pray that our elected leaders will see the light, and not only stop creating embryos only to destroy them, but stop killing the unborn through legalized abortion, as well.

2. Pray for the spectacular success of all forms of adult stem cell research, so that the potential for this line of science will be so much greater than for embryonic stem cell research that all the money will go here instead. (Incidentally...know why the scientists want the government to fund embryonic research? It's because private industry won't. Gee...private companies won't invest in embryonic research...could it be because they don't see a future in it?)

3. Pray for the equally spectacular failure of all forms of embryonic stem cell research. Hopefully it will soon be discovered that this line of research is an absolute dead end, with no hope, and that money spent on it is a waste. Seems to me like an odd thing to pray for, though, so if anyone has a good reason why praying for this to fail and quickly would be inappropriate, let me know.

4. This is a hard one. I believe that the practice of in-vitro fertilization must be discouraged by pro-life advocates. I understand the difficulty in accepting that, as we have personally struggled with that very question. But the fact is that the process often creates more fertilized eggs (i.e. human beings) than will be implanted, and the "extra" embryos are being eyed greedily by scientists in order to perform research. Hey, they're "extra", right? What's the big deal? Actually, there are a lot of reasons this practice is a big deal, but that's for another post. For now, focus on the fact that in an Obama presidency, embryos not implanted are condemned.

Okay...those are the big ones I thought of. Maybe I'll have more later. I always seem to have something to say, and this topic isn't going away anytime soon. Please let me know your opinions, additions, corrections, and funny jokes (keep the not funny ones to yourself).

I fell for the bait again

2008-11-07T18:44:00.002-11:00

See the original post.

“the real issue is between the woman and God and the abortion provider and God” Yes, it is. But if a child’s mother and doctor turn on him who will defend him? When a child is in danger, outsiders are allowed to intervene.

“you simply cannot legislate morality” Sorry, you got this one wrong. The government creates laws to legislate morally apprehensible things such as [theft, murder, rape, fraud]. I personally sleep much better knowing these morals are governed. Our entire country is based on moral rights (also known as unalienable rights, just ask Jefferson). Our founding fathers claim to have gone to war for morals.

“Now, I know that many feel that legalized abortion is just plain wrong” Note this misdirection. Abortion is not defended, but assumed, and the burden of proof is put in our court. The word “feel” is used in a post-modern way that there is no objective truth, and truth cannot be ascertained, so we shouldn’t even try. This means that when we use the truth and logic to prove abortion is wrong, the person is thinking “that may be true for you, but not me.” Even this defies logic since if we truly don’t know if abortion is wrong; shouldn’t the default be to not abort, just in case?

When the mother wants a baby, he’s a baby, and when she doesn’t he’s a parasite. The total disregard for logic really annoys me. It blows my mind how someone can justify something so wrong to herself using only riddles.

Whenever I read a short “defense” of abortion, this is what I hear: “This is a sentence that assumes abortion is okay, and cannot be proven to be wrong.” The “defender” then points to the sentence as proof. Not only that, but he also just “proved” abortion cannot be proven wrong. Therefore “logically” your proof that abortion is wrong is just [superstition, lies, hate…].

Bonus Points

2008-11-05T06:47:00.003-11:00

No one gets the bonus points.

Creativity
fail; Such a simple quote, you
couldn't work it in?

!Logical

2008-11-05T06:37:00.002-11:00

I hate it when people think I care about their opinion. We received a letter from a relative, a mass e-mail listing reasons why President-Elect Obama is better than Senator McCain, and it contained the following gem:

"Obama and Biden have always been supporters of womens rights, equal pay for equal work, the Violence Against Women act in the Senate and Roe V. Wade. Now, I know that many feel that legalized abortion is just plain wrong, but from another perspective, you simply cannot legislate morality and the real issue is between the woman and God and the abortion provider and God."

Now, since this person made the mistake of believing that I care what they think, let me just indulge my passive aggressive side and dismantle this bit of logical flotsam. I am going to do so by way of analogy:

"Now, I know that many feel that [stealing, murder, rape, fraud] is just plain wrong, but from another perspective, you simply cannot legislate morality and the real issue is between the [thief, murderer, rapist, umm...fraudist?] and God and the [people who have too much, people who had it coming, people dressed like they wanted it, gullible people] and God."

Fun, isn't it? I don't feel better...just angrier, which is what being passive aggressive gets you. Unfortunately I'm still too much of a wuss to reply with this post to the entire family (to whom this e-mail was addressed).

The really stupid thing is...the argument made has nothing to do with abortion (as illustrated in my example). How many Christians are mislead by this little bit of "bait and switch" logic? Or is it straw man? Either way.....argh.

Put that in your pipe and smoke it...

2008-10-29T06:38:00.002-11:00

"I couldn't make myself any plainer if I was a Quaker on his day off!!!"

First one to report using that in every day conversation gets five bonus points.

Ablaze! No More

2008-10-17T05:46:00.003-11:00

I got an email today with news that I had been expecting for quite some time--the church has exhausted all its funds. Please pray for our congregation as this likely means 2 of the 3 called staff will be dismissed, and most likely the 3rd will leave as well.

An amusement, and a question...

2008-09-23T13:48:00.002-11:00

Hehehehe....
http://www.kencollins.com/pray-23.htm#change

So...the news has it that Speaker Pelosi was called to the rug with a (her?) spiritual father recently for grossly misrepresenting the views of the Catholic church on abortion during a nationally televised interview. Her being a politician, I can't claim to have any idea what she actually believes or knows about the faith of the Catholic church. My question is: Is publicly disagreeing with the church's view on abortion grounds for withholding communion?

While I would love to see some of the vocal pro-choice Catholics backed into the corner to defend their views, I can't decide if public disagreement with the church's view on abortion constitutes an unrepentant sin. I suppose that if merely hating your brother in your mind is in violation of the sixth commandment, then you could say supporting the practice of abortion is a form of hating unborn babies. I suppose.

http://www.lifenews.com/nat4283.html

Hey there fiber

2008-09-11T15:37:00.003-11:00

One of the girls at work and I were talking about warm prune juice today. I didn't think I had ever had it, so I thought I would test it out, just to know. I was at Walmart tonight, needing to get a new toilet bowl brush and picked up the juice as well. I didn't realize the irony of that until I was checking out. I looked at the guy behind me, and the first two items he put on the belt were ground beef and condoms.

Lay Communion in the LCMS

2008-09-08T11:54:00.002-11:00

A church we share alter and pulpit fellowship with has decided to invent a new office below pastor and above deacon. Check out their fancy flier. These "Elders" would take a short course and then people will lay hands on them, and thus they would be eligible to offer communion in their homes to any church members who wish to attend.

It's got to take guts to tell the whole church they've been misreading the bible and left out this important office. While some, upon discovering they have made a great discovery of Christian truth, would summon pastors to test it or even check their history books to see if it has come up before. A Lutheran might even check Article XIV of the Augsburg Confession. Not so for JeffersonHills Church.

This sin cannot be tolerated. Hopefully someone in the Synod or the Missouri district realizes the damage this mockery of ordination will do to the Office of the Holy Ministry and to the Church.

I passed!

2008-09-06T15:22:00.002-11:00

It may not be m-r-s but today I got to add letters to my name and I was giddy as a school girl.

Thanks for all your prayers and support!

2008-09-02T13:16:00.002-11:00

I think I got it faster now that I live out of state. Anyone planning on entering the name the newsletter contest?

...Come up with something really good and I might even come up with my own prize :)

Sunday Recap

2008-08-31T13:03:00.005-11:00

I went to the bigger LCMS church. The 5th Sunday of the month they do page 15 and communion at the second service, also known as the "fusion" worship service. I counted one "ablaze" reference in the sermon and I didn't count the number of stories. I'm fine with stories if they relate to what is being taught, but there's been a few lame internet forward kind of fluff that creeps in there.

After I sat down there was a girl in her 20s who sat down next to her mom and brother at the other end of my pew. After church she introduced herself and we chatted for a couple of minutes. There was another lady that briefly talked to me, she had talked to me while I signed the guest book the first time I visited, but didn't remeber. I'm not offended that she didn't remember me, but both times, when finding out that I live in my little town, says "well then you must have been raised LCMS" and proceeds to say something about the LCMS church in this town. There's just something about it that rubs me the wrong way, maybe I'm reading too much into it, but it comes off arogant. I don't feel like church drama should be brought up in conversation with visitors. Overall, a positive experience, I was able to worship and receive the Sacrament.

And then I went to Panera :) I stopped at Best Buy after that and played around with the digital cameras.

Complicity in silence

2008-08-29T15:44:00.002-11:00

We are guilty, too.
Kyrie Eleison,
the unborn are yours.

Blood in the Field

2008-08-29T15:28:00.002-11:00

Fifty million now.
Their blood cries, senator; you
must stop the murder.

It's Friday!

2008-08-29T12:39:00.006-11:00

The new girl officially started yesterday and I think I might like her. I've been showing her around which is totally weird, since she has more experience than me, is older than me and she's my boss.

I am taking my test this coming up Saturday (Sept 6) I'm feeling prepared about it, but plan on studying this weekend, but passing will make me feel more important (for the record, I do feel important, but currently I feel like someone is always watching over/criticizing me and it's getting old).

Since I'm on the work subject, please discus with your loved ones what you would like your life and their life to look like if something bad were to happen (code status, tube feedings, funeral plans). It's something that I encountered twice today, so just indulge me :)

Day off

2008-08-27T14:14:00.003-11:00

I love not going to work! I got my oil changed, my hair cut, caught up with a college friend and went to the grocery store. I also went to the library to pay a fine. I checked out a bunch of books last month and then got a notice that I hadn't returned one. I got a notice yesterday that I owed $23(and that I would have to pay an extra 10 if they had to send it to a collection agency). My mom said that she had heard a story on the news about some girl's mother going to jail over a library fine, so I took that notice seriously. I had searched all over my apartment and couldn't find it. It ended up being on the shelf at the library. I thought I would still have to pay something but the lady was really nice and made my fine go away.

My new boss started on Monday, she had orientation on Monday and Tuesday, so I still haven't met her. The other girl is off tomorrow, so it's just me and the boss lady. I hope she's at least normal.

Story Highlights

2008-08-26T10:02:00.003-11:00

Did you ever notice the story highlights on CNN.com? It's not enough that we don't get news, but rather entertainment and make believe...now we're too lazy to even read the filth. We need highlights. Take this for example. Once you've read the story, read the highlights...crazy how many of the nuances get missed, isn't it?

Isn't it?

Well?

Okay...you got me. I can't fool you! The real purpose of this was to call attention to the article itself. Just one more way we're in the world but not of it. On the other hand, if a marriage is not founded on Christ, and a model of the Savior and his bride, the Church, this kind of thinking is natural. For the perishing world, marriage is vestigial, indeed.

Maybe "Offensive article of the week" should be a regular feature. Opinions?

True Love

2008-08-23T13:34:00.002-11:00

I had a very opinionated patient today, she had complained to some of the foodservice workers, so they asked me to go up there to talk to her. I should have just ran away. Her diet typically includes salt, salt, cholesterol and salt, so it was understandable that she didn't like what she was being served. She also has some issues chewing, she's missing some teeth. Apparently, when her boyfriend gets his bonus, he's going to pay for her to get them fixed... If only we all could be so well cared for.

Bob and Seafire, did you hear that they closed down Lutheran Singles Connection?

You know what they say about assumptions...

2008-08-21T03:50:00.002-11:00

Is it just me, or does this say "Check your discretion at the door."?

Big Brother knows best.

We're from Synod, and we're here to help you.

At Synod, we're not happy until you're not happy...

"The task force proposal clarifies and affirms that the Synod expects every member congregation of the Synod to respect its resolutions and to consider them of binding force on the assumption that they are in accordance with the Word of God and that they are applicable to the condition of the congregation."

This is going on right now, in STL.

Corn and more

2008-08-18T13:01:00.005-11:00

After work I went to the post office to buy stamps. I knew that the inside would be closed (why I was leaving work late is another story) but thought that they would have a machine, but they didn't. Boo. So I went to the grocery store to buy them. Of course I would have a bill that needs to be be mailed and who doesn't have online bill pay? Apparently the same town that doesn't have stamps in their post offices.

So, I got my stamps, and since I was at the store, I picked up a few things (I'm beginning to feel like I go to the store a lot- not that I spend a lot, I just go there often). But the point to this story is that they were selling Olathe sweet corn. Who knew!

Yesterday, I went to a random church, the kind that has a coffeehouse feel. I like the fact that they have an emphasis on community (there is a longer list of things that I don't agree with). I miss having church friends and having people to make me accountable. For all my church talk, I think I haven't been reading my bible and praying like I have in the past. It's like that saying about people dating, like after so many, you really have to wonder if you are the problem.

Sylla

2008-08-16T03:37:00.002-11:00

bles. That one is free
Future ones I'll need returned
Don't want to run out

Buffering...Buffering...Buffering

2008-08-14T02:32:00.000-11:00

Good observation
But all those other dates have
Too many sylla

God Positions us for Service

2008-08-13T10:08:00.010-11:00

That's apparently what GPS stands for...I'm not sure why someone talked about this after the sermon this past Sunday, but he did have a fishfinder. The Pastor had finished his sermon and then invited this member up there who talked for a couple of minutes. I think the moral of it all was that we need to use our Bibles to be our maps for out lives. Also, even though there was no communion, we didn't get out any earlier.

Some random kid facebooked me, who's a Lutheran here. I asked him what church he goes to and he said that it's the one that I was at on Sunday. He hasn't been in awhile though so I don't think we've been there at the same time. I haven't confirmed his request yet, he's kind of overwhelmed me with messages, including one that was poorly spelled, asking how I was "doin" and telling me that he's not "concieted" and gave me many ways to get in touch with him. By looking at his page, it looks like he's tried to add every "single" girl in this area.

Speaking of ministries, there is a church here that has an "equestrian ministry". My dad wanted to know if that was grief counseling for Big Brown.

8/8/08

2008-08-08T02:22:00.003-11:00

It's 8/8/08
100 more 'til this date
Hope you enjoyed it.

The War on Humanity

2008-08-06T04:05:00.007-11:00

Preface: I'm not questioning lifestyles, but attitudes. Our group is an eclectic mix of single people, married people, people with kids, without, one income, two, etc. This is a most excellent diversity. If I come across as being critical of your lifestyle, I apologize...it isn't my intent.

I found the two articles linked to be flat out disturbing:
Babies a drag on the economy, report says
No kids, no jobs for growing number of wives

In the second one it's not the article that bothers me as much as the general attitude of the comments. The pervasive attitude I see in both cases is that our purpose as human beings is to be productive members of the economy. They both say society...but let's face it. Our society is the economy. If you're not making a positive contribution to the workforce, you're worthless. If you're not a corporate slave, you're worthless. It's like the economy is a giant monster, chewing up our humanity to sustain itself. Just look at the way we're referred to: workforce, labour supply, taxation base, working population. In the CNN article, choosing not to join the workforce when you don't have to is referred to as an "extreme and visible luxury". Granted, these articles are about economics, and are naturally slanted in the words they use because of that. Fair enough. But I think it's difficult to deny that in our "civilized" "modern" society, the role of human beings is summed up in one word: consumer.

Dear friends...you are not consumers. Oh yes, you consume. You buy things, and you produce things, and you participate in the economy, this is true. This is necessary for life, and in that regard God has made gracious provision for us in the form of our free market economy. But this is not who you are. We are made in God's image. We are, albeit dim and unpolished, reflections of both our Creator and Savior. All of us humans are, even those mired in the muck of consumerism. And now, at the end of the rant, I find it takes all my energy to simply fend off the despair of the realization that we humans are very deeply mired. As such, I'm going to let this post hang right here, and hope for the wisdom of your comments to put the appropriate end on it.

edit: Didn't mean for the font on that one article to be huge...don't know how to fix it. *shrug*

Haiku or haiku?

2008-08-02T16:02:00.003-11:00

While thinking about ministries, I considered offering big-em Ministry to refer to the Holy Ministry and little-em ministry to refer to other ministries. I decided I am not yet insane enough to consider this a solution. It doesn’t actually solve anything, it just moves it to an academic distinction. This is what we have done to the word catholic.

Conversationally we still have to infer from context the meaning of these words. “I am catholic.” “You’re too Catholic.” “I am not a papist!” It can lead to saying less than aesthetic sentences: “I am little-c catholic.” “What does it mean when you say you are a ‘small sea Roman Catholic’?”

This distinction does allow people use the word catholic with drastically different meanings without confusing people, at least theoretically in print. But how is this less confusing than using context to disambiguate like we do for all other words? If a Lutheran calls himself Catholic, no one should assume he is a member of the Roman Church.

So, while it’s a small thing, I don’t think the big-c/little-c distinction is worth making. And, now, because Jesus saved me, I can say I belong to The One Holy Catholic and Apostolic Church; I am Catholic.

Haiku Ministry

2008-07-30T13:41:00.003-11:00

Seriously...haiku ministry. I've just noticed, due to local events, that everything is a ministry now. I guess I haven't exactly just noticed...but I was thinking about it today. It's because we now have an "Information Ministry"...for putting together the newsletter (content-wise...not actually assembling it). Because the newsletter is ministry. Yes. You know who has Information Minisitries? Communist governments, that's who.

Anyway...I wonder if "Ministry" should be a word carefully used in the context of church, lest it become diluted. We'd have to think of something else to call the work assigned to the man who holds the office of the keys. Like "call"...an entirely different post, there. So...fun game...what are the coolest/goofiest ministries you guys have heard of? Am I off my rocker in criticising the use of the word this way? What say you? In the meantime...I'm off for some dinner ministry.

Ear Infection

2008-07-26T12:51:00.001-11:00

Antibiotics
Can I take my next dose yet?
Where is my mommy?

Ode to my morning...

2008-07-24T07:20:00.002-11:00

Cup of vigilance
Free, two is not too many
Or three, four; coffee.

Just a small town girl

2008-07-19T13:16:00.002-11:00

Tonight I made a Target run and was going to stop by the ice cream place on the way home, but they were out of most flavors, so I decided to just go to the grocery store. I saw one of the doctors(I still don't know his name though... and I don't know if he knows me) In my basket was:

1 zucchini
Grapes
Eggs
Chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream
1 bottle of wine

That covers all the food groups, right?

Money Money Money

2008-07-19T06:30:00.002-11:00

Thanks for putting the money issue in perspective. There's something my dad said one time about what does it mean when more consistenly we see flowers and money on the altar instead of the Body and Blood of Christ and I think that's where the budget bothers me. But I'm willing to admit that maybe it helps to keep people informed of what it costs to do things around the church.

I skipped church last week. I was at a friend's wedding, which was fun. They are a non-denominational couple and so are most of the college friends of mine that were there, so, I'm always on the outside of our theological conversations. I had a crazy airport adventure and have since just felt wiped out- but it was a good weekend. Today, I'm working (I'm on my lunch break, I'm not a slacker- it's kind of better for me to not leave early incase anything comes up) and then tomorrow I'm headed to see some other friends about 3hrs away. I'm not sure where I'll go to church yet- my feeble flesh is thinking about just sleeping in.

I had to laugh when I saw this story on the news today:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-il-homeorchurch,0,1036080.story

Textual Analysis

2008-07-18T02:34:00.004-11:00

Take a look at the following post:

"A picture of a thousand words."

I have to say, the online word cloud generator linked at the bottom of the post and used to make these is just one of the coolest online things I've ever seen. Those of you who know me know how I feel in general about technology, and know that's a strong statement. And the application of the tool to sermon analysis is just brilliant, in my opinion. I'm absolutely going to have to try this. Now...I'm going to need a tape recorder... :)

repeat

2008-07-06T14:39:00.004-11:00

I went back to the LCMS church in town today. I walked in slightly late, and had a hard time finding a seat (the church is just really small-each pew only holds about 4 people) but some nice old lady moved over for me. The regular Pastor was back this week, he's an older fellow, but the sermon was good. He and his wife were greeting people after church, and introduced themselves to me.

A few things:
1) I've noticed that a lot of the Pastors (and wives) will hug and kiss the parishioners.
2) It kind of bothers me as a visitor to see the church's budget published in the bulletin.
3) In my opinion, pastors should leave any sort of judgment out of the prayers. For instance, there was something today about praying for the floods in Iowa, he said something about it being "sad", and the fires in California and said something like "maybe someone started it which is just wrong". I think there should be a difference between the news and the prayers.

Overall, it was not bad, but I don't know that it wowed me, which just leaves me questioning if I have become too judgmental... One thing I have heard when talking to people about being single and dating, is "don't settle" and I feel like I shouldn't just settle on a church. So maybe I need to start asking myself could I introduce my parents to it, and could I see a future with it?

So my friends, don't forget that Walmart isn't the only savings place and it's vacation time, don't leave home without Jesus.

#3

2008-07-01T15:59:00.003-11:00

For those of you counting...yes, I did go to church on Sunday. I had seen in the paper that on Saturday, there was going to be a solemn vespers service at the catholic church celebrating the Jubilee Year of St. Paul. It's one of those old churches that you walk into and think about how beautiful it would to get married in :) It was a nice service, all the hymns and psalms were done without accompaniment, which surprised me, but the acoustics of the church carried it well. The church has grown, so they meet in their parish hall, but there are plans to renovate and they are working through the city paperwork to do so.

Sunday morning, I went to the LCMS church in the next town over. It's a little over 20miles away, which seems silly since the one here is within walking distance. But I do like the mall in that town. They do communion on the 1st and 3rd Sundays (and late service on the 5th). Compared to the one here, it's larger and the people are definitely younger. They don't have LSB in the pews, but had printed all the liturgy and hymns from it into the bulletin. The sermon was about the cup of cold water, so we heard a lot about hospitality. After the service, some people smiled at me, and then I went to go and sign the guest book. There was a lady standing there and she smiled and thanked me for signing it and doing her job for her. I know it was a joke, but part of me wanted to be like, did you listen to the sermon, but maybe that just shows that I listened to the sermon but didn't apply it.

And in my searching so far, no one has invited me to any singles ministry things. Maybe they've heard my reputation...

...with which I have ever offended Thee...

2008-06-29T11:16:00.004-11:00

I've said those words a lot. A lot. Every week when I was a kid. Every few weeks now. Countless times when random bits of liturgy drift through the mind, as they are so wont to do when you've been raised in a traditional church. Today, I realized what they mean.

I always thought that the phrase referred to all the sins and iniquities I'd committed in the past. You know, that pile of them there...all the sins I've ever committed (blasphemy bonus: All the sins I've committed since I said this last week). That's how the word "ever" struck me: past tense. Ever, as in encompassing all time past.

I realized today, though, that "ever" is also an ongoing word. This was an epiphany for me. For the first time in 30 years, I confessed to be heartily sorry for sins with which I'm constantly offending God...not past sins (well, them too), but rather my sinfulness. It's a subtle point, at least for me, but allow me to change the confession just a bit to illustrate. All I need is a comma:

Original: I, a poor, miserable sinner, confess unto Thee all my sins and iniquities with which I have ever offended Thee...

Modified: I, a poor, miserable sinner, confess unto Thee all my sins and iniquities, with which I have ever offended Thee...

See the difference? Interestingly enough, the dictionary in front of me has this as the first definition of "ever": At all times; always.

And the second definition is: At any time; In any way; at all.

So...is Amaryllis the last one on the boat? Has everyone else used definition 1 of "ever" and I've been using definition 2 this whole time? Is one or both of them correct? What say you, dear friends? I am ever awaiting your opinion.

Bonus: Ever confess that you were "a poor, miserable singer..."?

Creeper

2008-06-28T08:14:00.002-11:00

I had to give a diet education to a patient- a fairly typical thing, but I often get weird responses to them. Some people are just more motivated to change their lives. I could tell that this guy wasn't going to follow my healthful suggestions, so I was going to leave and asked if he had any other questions. He said, "Ya, what time do you get off work tonight, so I can take you out for dinner". I don't know what's happened to me, I didn't have a good comeback for it and was just like, uh...ok, I'm going to go now... and ran away.

1, ha ha ha...2, ha ha ha...3, ha ha ha...

2008-06-25T02:12:00.006-11:00

Take a look at this post about counting numbers.

The first paragraph which quotes Gregory of Nanzianzen sums it up nicely. Especially the bit that reads "who define the church by numbers and scorn the little flock". That perfectly encapsulates the sick feeling I get when people talk about 3bl3ze!!! and disparage the "congregation with 20 members in western Kansas". Yeah...you know what I'm referring to.

The notion that small congregations just aren't worthy of synodical or district attention (except when it comes time to support the Movement) makes my skin crawl. The only time they get held up is in comparison to the district's lapdog congregations, so we can pat the ablazing people on the back and tell them what a good boy are they. On the other hand...maybe no synod or district attention is a good thing...

God be praised for faithful under-shepherds for whom a small flock is worth the effort. Feed those sheep! They depend on you to lead them to the good food.

If I'd wanted it...I'd have signed up myself.

2008-06-23T07:20:00.005-11:00

(start rant)

(post redacted)
ARGH.

(end rant)

Church Review #2

2008-06-22T05:53:00.002-11:00

I went to the Anglican church in town today. One of the Fathers greeted me outside, an older gentleman who encouraged me to sign the guest book. I did and then sat down on an old wooden pew. The church has some nice stained glass windows and they had the stations of the cross around the church. Very traditional service, four men processed in- a crucifer and 3 Reverends . They use a hymnal from 1940, I sang some wrong notes in there. A lot of kneeling, more than standing. Afterwards, I talked to a couple of people, including the Father. He was kicked out of the Episcopal church and had asked if I was Anglican. I told him the I was Lutheran and that I was exploring, and he sympathized with that, and said that he had a daughter that had done that as well. Overall, I enjoyed the service, although I'm not used to "spake" and "beseech" and it definitely felt that I had walked into a nursing home. I think the youngest people there were probably my parents age and most looked much older than that, lots of grey hairs, but I think I'll put it on the "visit again" list.

Thanks to all for the comments about my first post. It really means a lot to me!

Flamin'

2008-06-21T16:36:00.003-11:00

I googled "ablaze haiku" and found these links:

this

and

this

I can't even make up stuff like this.

The Pirate is coming!

2008-06-18T17:16:00.008-11:00

In case you haven't heard, Pirate Christan Radio is almost here.

"On weekdays, Monday-Friday, starting June 30, the program will be webcast around the world for
two hours, 3:00-5:00 (Central), on the Internet at the Pirate Christian Radio website: http://www.piratechristianradio.com

The second hour, 4:00-5:00, will be broadcast in the St. Louis area on AM 1320.

Todd gave an interview about the show and you can listen to it here: www.tabletalkradio.org/audio/scraps-wilken.mp3

Church review

2008-06-18T15:10:00.002-11:00

On Sunday, I went church hopping. I know...I'm an overachiever, but really, I wanted to see what they were like and I think that it was a good distraction for me to not think about heading to work the next day. Also, I thought I was going to be headed to visit friends this weekend, but it turns out that they are coming here, but I'm not sure when they are leaving/if I will make it to church. So here's how it went...

8:30am No Communion (they do it every other Sunday). Decent sermon. The all male choir sang "Standin' in the need of prayer"(Not my mother or my brother, but it's me, it's me oh Lord, Standin' in the need of prayer) . As for other hymns, nothing remarkable. Middle aged Pastor (male) with a good sermon.

10:30am This church is so close that I walked to it (even in my cute heels which one person commented on). Decent hymn selection, but there was one that belonged in the ghetto. Communion was this week, although they don't do it every week. There was a guest Pastor this week, the other (also male) will be back in 2 weeks from vacation, but I enjoyed the guest Pastor.

5pm Communion every service. Music was played by individuals on keyboards and guitars from the choir loft (yes, it was advertised as contemporary music, but it still had all the elements of the liturgy and has other music at the morning service). Sermon was short and to the point. 4 people processed in -Crucifer (male); acolyte (male); reader of old and new testament lessons (female-who did not pass out communion or preach) and Pastor (male)

At all three of these, people smiled at me and shook my hand at Peace of the Lord, but no one actually introduced themselves to me. I didn't go out of my way to talk to any of them though, I might of had that I'm checking you out, I'm not sure if I want to give you my number/let you buy me a drink look.

I'm guessing you can probably figure out the denominations, I did go to an Episcopal church, an ELCA and an LCMS. One of these weeks, I'll probably go to the Anglican church (just to see what it is like), there is also a Catholic church (my father groaned at that one and made a remark about heading back to Rome) along with another ELCA church close to the hospital and an Orthodox church.

So where, dear friends, do I go?

The Fair

2008-06-18T12:24:00.001-11:00

Painted with mustard
Breaded dog, hot, on a stick
This is why I came

Of Traditions and Motivations

2008-06-09T17:31:00.001-11:00

What is the motivation? It is an extension of today’s culture. You are required to accept and love all people including and especially homosexuals, and never question how they live their lives. They simply cannot tolerate intolerant people.

I would speculate that this is the rejection of Puritan life. Much of the church incorrectly taught that you can live a holy life on Earth. Society finally realized that this is hogwash, but instead of seeing the need for a savior, decided that this sin business is overrated and that all people are inherently good. Having chucked the bible completely allowed all manner of sins to become acceptable. “Accepting sin” actually became synonymous with “loving.” Groups tend to be self-protecting, so peer pressure is used to keep those unloving church people out.

The parts of the church noticed this exodus and went into panic mode. Maybe some mix of relying on growth as a sign of God’s work, with the fear of their beloved denomination dying, and true love for their neighbor; church workers wanted the church to only grow. Instead of treating the cause—the emphasizing of a holy life instead of Christ’s forgiveness—they treated the symptom. They downplayed certain parts of God’s law to become “loving”, and strongly encouraged mission work to get the numbers up. As those in the church who had been influence by the cultural shift, but had been reluctant to leave the church flocked to these new ideas and officially became a “movement.” The true Gospel and the traditional teachings of God’s Word are intolerant and incompatible with the World and threatening to those they are trying to convert, so traditionalists must be pressured to conform.

The World rebelled against the church, so anything “churchy,” including traditional worship styles, is a hindrance.

Now those who do not wish to lose certain traditions do not want the traditions for their own sake, but for the doctrine that permeates within them. Love of Christ’s teachings (doctrine) is love of Christ. Without reverent traditions and clear doctrine, misdirection and uncertainty will ensue in the name of inclusiveness.

Now this all may sound dire, how can we change are little part of the church, let alone the whole world? We can’t, but God has already conquered the sins of the World. He commands us to believe. He warns us that there are wolves among us, but tells us the church cannot be defeated. He does not promise us earthly pleasures, but that the World will hate us because of Him. If God is for us, who can be against us?

The Felt Need of Tradition

2008-06-09T05:15:00.002-11:00

I've been reading some articles given to me lately. I've noticed a bothersome trend. It seems that when modern church people talk about certain groups not being open to the Spirit's moving, or demanding that their felt needs be met, it's always the "traditional" group that's being criticized. It's almost as though the tables have been turned. Suddenly the people who want to change everything aren't the ones with the felt needs, it's the people who are skeptical, or at least careful, about changing things that are being selfish and shallow.

I'm sure the whole thing is deeper than the "contemporary" vs. "traditional" debate (a.k.a. the "wrong and stupid" vs. "right and good" debate, a.k.a. "it's my blog and i'll say what i want")...but I can't quite figure it out. I need to figure it out, because if I come across as just wanting to cling to tradition it becomes too easy to marginalize the arguments in favor of not changing. I know that the modern school of church "leadership" is part of it, as is the heavy emphasis on outreach and "every man a missionary". But what's at the heart of the movement?

So...opinions please. What really motivates the "leadership principles"-crazed crowd? Are they just baby-boomers desperate to achieve self-actualization? People who want to sell leadership books? What else (i.e. the "Servant Leader" phenomenon...can't we just be servants anymore?) can be tied in to the same movement? What do they think motivates the unloving, uncaring, stick-in-the-mud people who are skeptical of the new corporate church (i.e., me)? Are posts like this fun?

Josephine Ablaze!

2008-06-09T03:09:00.001-11:00

Wow, is it ever hot there. How do you like that? I bet it's a dry heat, too...right... :)

Our First Breaking News!

2008-05-28T10:58:00.000-11:00

If I could emit a low whistle via a blog post, I would...

http://www.piratechristianradio.com/

Distribution Hymn

2008-05-25T09:26:00.002-11:00

The first one was listed in the bulletin as: 619 "They Body, Given for Me, O Savior". I read that and started to wonder why LSB changed the name of the hymn, and was questioning the meaning of it all. Then I opened my hymnal and realized that it was just a typo and no freakout was needed.

Getting distracted already

2008-05-20T17:35:00.003-11:00

A big thank you to Patrick, Lauran and Cora!

True friends that definitely supported me emotionally and technologically today.

Ablaze

2008-05-15T15:55:00.008-11:00

People yell and scream

Smoke chokes the congregation

The church is Ablaze!

2008-05-15T15:55:00.006-11:00

Burning desire
Invite another to join
Feel the power

And furthermore

2008-05-15T04:55:00.003-11:00

Really this doesn't have to stay on topic. If this turns into "Lives of my friends", that's fine by me. It's a good place for rants and raves and stuff. I'm sure there's probably a facebook feature that does that, but my rebellious nature forbids me. Besides, the "anonymity" will make it "amusing".

But, for what it's worth:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haiku

For starters

2008-05-15T04:15:00.000-11:00

Critical event
One more tick on the counter
Am I Ablaze yet?

Does anyone know anything about copyright law?