One focus of the Church’s Advent Season is the “voice crying in the wilderness”. John, the Baptizer, is one of the first to describe the coming of the Messiah. John says: “Among you stands one whom you do not know, the one who is coming after me; I am not worthy to untie the thong of his sandal.”
John does not include what I automatically expect to be added: “He will baptize you whit the Holy Spirit” Matthew, Mark, and Luke each have the Baptizer contrasting his baptizing with water to Jesus’ baptizing with the Spirit. However, the fact does come out in the Gospel according to John when the Baptizer sees the Spirit descend upon Jesus he recalls what had been revealed to him “He on whom you see the Spirit descend and remain is the one who baptizes with the Holy Spirit”
There is a lot of talk about the spirit during this time of the year. And there is a long history of tension between Christians celebrating the expectant birth of Jesus, and the spirit of revelry and carousing, of commercialism and general indulgence. At certain times the celebration of Christmas has even been outlawed by both the Church and State. They did want people of faith getting involved in pagan practices that pre-date Christianity itself.
Today there is still a battle over “the spirit of Christmas”. Charles Dickens made the phrase popular in his writing A Christmas Carol. You probably remember the three ghosts; the spirit of Christmas past, present and future. In his writing, this and other seasonal tails, Charles wanted to promote a celebration that was getting a bad-wrap. But Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” doesn’t mention Jesus at all.
The other day I found an article form a small California town. In the middle of December they will have a community performance of what they are calling “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some)”. Here is some of what it says:
What is your favorite Christmas story? Is it Dickens’ classic “A Christmas Carol”?
Is it the Dr. Seuss favorite “How the Grinch Stole Christmas”? Does your Christmas seem incomplete without ”The Gift of the Magi”?
If you can’t make up your mind, that’s all right, because the Community Players are presenting “Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and then some!)” on stage for your holiday enjoyment. This hilarious romp is done with three actors in 90 minutes.
If you think performing every Christmas story ever told is a challenge, be prepared for the appearance of Gustav, the Green-Nosed Reingoat, Yukon Cornelius, Cindy Lou Who, Charley Brown, Frosty the Snowman, and even the Norelco Santa. You’ll see Virginia find out, once and for all, if there really is a Santa Claus. George will search for meaning in his life and Clarence will try to earn his wings. Don’t worry, there’ll be plenty scenes with Scrooge, all three ghosts of Christmas and Tiny Tim. Della will, again, sell her lovely long hair to buy Jim a watch fob and the Nutcracker will be danced.
The actors bounce jokes off each other, change hats, clothing and characters with rapid-fire precision.
The professionals say this is the most stressful time of year for most people. No one has to tell us that laughter is the best antidote for stress, and this show guarantees plenty of that. Taking a couple hours out of the madness of holiday shopping for some old-fashioned belly laughs is a sure-fire stress-buster and is guaranteed to make your season jolly.(from Visalia California ).
“Every Christmas Story Ever Told”, I don’t think so! All the stories recounted by the appearance of familiar characters give witness to our culture's secular “Spirit of Christmas”. But, that is not the Spirit of Jesus.
Jesus made dramatic reference to his Spirit when he read aloud from the prophecy of Isaiah. It was the one on whom the Spirit descended and remained who read: “The Lord has anointed me: he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor…”
Any who are baptized in the name of the Triune God have been gifted with the Holy Spirit; and the Spirit of Jesus remains with us!
And Jesus sends us out with the same mission and ministry described in Isaiah chapter 61. The good news we have to share is not that a cultural festival called Christmas has been slave from a Grinch, or that and angel has gotten his wings, or even that Virginia “believes”.
The Good News we have is that God’s love has saved us. Real sins (that hold us in chains) can be forgiven and we can be set free. Those who are broken-hearted, by the pain and suffering of this life, can be restored by the power of God’s love in Jesus. And the Spirit of God (“who loves justice”) can inspire us anew, to hunger and thirst for righteousness, just as Jesus did.
As the Advent Season moves on, may our hearts and minds be inspired by the Spirit of Jesus’ mercy, compassion, and love; assuring that we settle for nothing less!
Monday, December 12, 2011
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
"unalienable rights" The Vote
Some time ago I came to see that the ideals on which the American Revolution was begun (The Declaration of Independence) are yet to be realized. Somewhere between the 4th of July’s statement that “all men are created equal” and the formation of the U.S. Constitution, that powerful belief in “unalienable rights” was shelved.
When the United States came into existence only white men with property could vote (although free African Americans could vote in four states even then). White working men, almost all women, and all other people of color were denied franchise.
Even after the Civil War, when most white men were allowed to vote, literacy tests were in used in various places, most white women, people of color, and native Americans still could not vote.
The Constitution left the determination of voting qualifications to the states. Since then the 14th, 15th, 19th, 23rd, 24th, and 26th amendments to the constitution have opened the door for people of color, women, and those over 18 years of age. They also addressed such injustice as a poll tax and other fees.
Today we have a new wave of attacks on the right of every citizen to vote. These attacks are coming from groups claiming to promote the “original intent” of the framers of the constitution and of “states rights”. Every concerned citizen must be alert to what changes are being proposed in their home state.
Perhaps the most sweeping change in voting rights since the 2010 election is the proliferation of state laws requiring citizens to present photo identification in order to vote. New “photo ID” laws in Indiana, Georgia, Kansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin, have the potential to disenfranchise 3.2 Million voters. More than 10% of U.S. citizens lack such identification, and the numbers are even higher among young voters (18%), and African Americans (25%). In Texas, under "emergency” legislation passed and then signed by Gov. Rick Perry, a concealed-weapon permit is considered an acceptable ID but a student ID is not. It isn’t hard to see whom they want to vote and whom they would rather not have vote.
Since January, six states have introduced legislation to impose new restrictions on voter registration drives. In May, the legislature in Florida passed a law requiring anyone who signs up new voters to hand in registration forms to the state board of elections within 48 hours of collecting them, and to comply with a barrage of bureaucratic requirements. Those found to have submitted late forms would face a $1,000 fine, as well as possible felony prosecution. Denouncing the legislation as “good old-fashioned voter suppression,” the League of Women Voters announced that it was ending its registration efforts in Florida.
Besides these tactics to disenfranchise voters, the days of early voting are being cut, Sunday voting is being eliminated, and ex-felons are being disenfranchised. Look up what has happened in Ohio, Iowa and Florida in recent months. If you live in a state I have mentioned, and value the vote of all our citizens, now is the time to speak up against these unjust laws.
When the United States came into existence only white men with property could vote (although free African Americans could vote in four states even then). White working men, almost all women, and all other people of color were denied franchise.
Even after the Civil War, when most white men were allowed to vote, literacy tests were in used in various places, most white women, people of color, and native Americans still could not vote.
The Constitution left the determination of voting qualifications to the states. Since then the 14th, 15th, 19th, 23rd, 24th, and 26th amendments to the constitution have opened the door for people of color, women, and those over 18 years of age. They also addressed such injustice as a poll tax and other fees.
Today we have a new wave of attacks on the right of every citizen to vote. These attacks are coming from groups claiming to promote the “original intent” of the framers of the constitution and of “states rights”. Every concerned citizen must be alert to what changes are being proposed in their home state.
Perhaps the most sweeping change in voting rights since the 2010 election is the proliferation of state laws requiring citizens to present photo identification in order to vote. New “photo ID” laws in Indiana, Georgia, Kansas, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin, have the potential to disenfranchise 3.2 Million voters. More than 10% of U.S. citizens lack such identification, and the numbers are even higher among young voters (18%), and African Americans (25%). In Texas, under "emergency” legislation passed and then signed by Gov. Rick Perry, a concealed-weapon permit is considered an acceptable ID but a student ID is not. It isn’t hard to see whom they want to vote and whom they would rather not have vote.
Since January, six states have introduced legislation to impose new restrictions on voter registration drives. In May, the legislature in Florida passed a law requiring anyone who signs up new voters to hand in registration forms to the state board of elections within 48 hours of collecting them, and to comply with a barrage of bureaucratic requirements. Those found to have submitted late forms would face a $1,000 fine, as well as possible felony prosecution. Denouncing the legislation as “good old-fashioned voter suppression,” the League of Women Voters announced that it was ending its registration efforts in Florida.
Besides these tactics to disenfranchise voters, the days of early voting are being cut, Sunday voting is being eliminated, and ex-felons are being disenfranchised. Look up what has happened in Ohio, Iowa and Florida in recent months. If you live in a state I have mentioned, and value the vote of all our citizens, now is the time to speak up against these unjust laws.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Compromise is divine!
Before the U.S. Congress took a summer brake (a time to travel home and listen to what the local voters want to say), they had been locked up in the capitol for weeks. Our growing national debt demanded that they raise the debt-ceiling.
There were calls from throughout the country, and around the world, that ideologies be set aside in order to find a compromise. But, for too many in congress “compromise” is a dirty word. Today, in our society, there are many who approach solving problems with the attitude “my way” or “no way”! For them, to compromise would be to lose; and many will not go there.
In a couple weeks I have a wedding on my calendar. I’ve known the groom for over twelve years; and have gotten to know the bride well in a short time. They will be making promises with each other. I say “making promises with
each other” because that is the definition of compromise. And it strikes me how marriage is the foundational compromise within our culture.
There is, of course, a higher and eternal compromise. When God seeks to make a covenant with humankind he says “I will be your God and you can be my people” When the people turn to worship and serve others (breaking the promises they have made with God) the response is telling. In hurt and sadness God says: “But, I was your Husband”!
I pray that the members of the U. S. Congress who know and cherish the promises they have with God; will be able to learn, from Him, how to Promise with one another and that compromise is not a dirty word. Compromise it is actually the foundation of any lasting relationship, be it a family or a republic.
There were calls from throughout the country, and around the world, that ideologies be set aside in order to find a compromise. But, for too many in congress “compromise” is a dirty word. Today, in our society, there are many who approach solving problems with the attitude “my way” or “no way”! For them, to compromise would be to lose; and many will not go there.
In a couple weeks I have a wedding on my calendar. I’ve known the groom for over twelve years; and have gotten to know the bride well in a short time. They will be making promises with each other. I say “making promises with
each other” because that is the definition of compromise. And it strikes me how marriage is the foundational compromise within our culture.
There is, of course, a higher and eternal compromise. When God seeks to make a covenant with humankind he says “I will be your God and you can be my people” When the people turn to worship and serve others (breaking the promises they have made with God) the response is telling. In hurt and sadness God says: “But, I was your Husband”!
I pray that the members of the U. S. Congress who know and cherish the promises they have with God; will be able to learn, from Him, how to Promise with one another and that compromise is not a dirty word. Compromise it is actually the foundation of any lasting relationship, be it a family or a republic.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
False Prophets in the Land
In Old Testament, the Prophets warned God’s people when they were not acting as God’s people. They would tell them that if they continued to act against the ways of God, they would suffer the consequences. Most of what these men said was very practical advice from God. For example,if you are harsh and unjust rulers, then you can expect rebellion from your people and neighboring nations.
In recent years, a number of economists have prophesied, to the American People, that Wall Street investors, industrial CEOs, and wealthy stock holders would use their fortunes to produce jobs, if only they were given extended tax cuts. Their promise won over the congress during the Bush Administration. Now for over a decade we have suffered increasing budget deficits due, in part, to significant loss in revenue.
Over this past decade, while the top 2% of wealthiest Americans continue to amass greater personal fortunes, the average American worker still waits for wages to start keeping pace with the cost of living. And those presently unemployed wait for the jobs the prophets promised over ten years ago.
The problem is, the prophecies of new jobs, to be produced by tax cuts, were based on the good will of the wealthiest among us. We are waiting on the grace and mercy of powerful employers; and our hope is hanging on the social conscience of Industrial titans. Here lies the foundation of the false prophecy. The wealthy and the powerful are merely sinful humans. The business of businessmen (and women) is to make money. Most feel little pull to be socially responsible. A business will hire a new employee only when it will add to the corporate profits.
The way that God set up ancient Israel's economy assured that there would be no dynasties of wealth and privilege among his people. Interest rates were to be extremely modest. After the second generation of privilege, the accumulation of great wealth was to be redistributed; and the debts of the poor were to be wiped clean. The warning of the prophets, to the people of God was against high interest rates, against the accumulation of wealth for generation after generation, and against great gaps between the rich and the poor.
Today, the true prophets are those who encourage the wealthy to be responsible, to honor economic justice, and heed the warnings against greed.
In recent years, a number of economists have prophesied, to the American People, that Wall Street investors, industrial CEOs, and wealthy stock holders would use their fortunes to produce jobs, if only they were given extended tax cuts. Their promise won over the congress during the Bush Administration. Now for over a decade we have suffered increasing budget deficits due, in part, to significant loss in revenue.
Over this past decade, while the top 2% of wealthiest Americans continue to amass greater personal fortunes, the average American worker still waits for wages to start keeping pace with the cost of living. And those presently unemployed wait for the jobs the prophets promised over ten years ago.
The problem is, the prophecies of new jobs, to be produced by tax cuts, were based on the good will of the wealthiest among us. We are waiting on the grace and mercy of powerful employers; and our hope is hanging on the social conscience of Industrial titans. Here lies the foundation of the false prophecy. The wealthy and the powerful are merely sinful humans. The business of businessmen (and women) is to make money. Most feel little pull to be socially responsible. A business will hire a new employee only when it will add to the corporate profits.
The way that God set up ancient Israel's economy assured that there would be no dynasties of wealth and privilege among his people. Interest rates were to be extremely modest. After the second generation of privilege, the accumulation of great wealth was to be redistributed; and the debts of the poor were to be wiped clean. The warning of the prophets, to the people of God was against high interest rates, against the accumulation of wealth for generation after generation, and against great gaps between the rich and the poor.
Today, the true prophets are those who encourage the wealthy to be responsible, to honor economic justice, and heed the warnings against greed.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Is it really your money?
In Martin Luther’s Catechism is found an explanation of the Christian teaching that God created everything:
I believe that God has created me
and all that exists.
He has given me, and still preserves
My body and soul and all their powers
He provides me with food and clothing,
home and family, daily work, and all
I need from day to day….
…Therefore I surely ought to thank and praise,
serve and obey him.
The logical conclusion to such a belief, is the realization that all we have is a gift from God. And our grateful response must be to use our blessings in accordance to what Jesus declares as good and right, and just. It is therefore disappointing that many Christians, including Lutherans, believe in personal ownership of what is on loan from God. And use to personal advantage what is given for the benefit of all humankind.
Recently, Florida Gov. Rick Scott, made an unannounced appearance at the Tea Party rally and got a roaring ovation. He told them he was fighting for less government and lower taxes. "Less government, right? Lower taxes. No high-speed rail. It's your money. We're going to follow the constitution. We're going to watch spending like a hawk. It's your money."
Republican Scott wants to trim state spending by $5 billion and phase in property and corporate tax cuts. In doing so he says he is “going to follow the constitution”. I guess the idea that individuals own what is under their control might be constitutional. But it is not what Jesus taught. All our blessings, including money, belong to God. And the reason we “should watch spending like a hawk”, is because it is not our money. We are only stewards of what belongs to God.
If more people would consider our responsibility, for how our blessings can be applied toward what is good and right and just; the makeup of our state and federal budgets could really change. Projects such as light-rail, are aimed at those who by choice or necessity rely on public transportation. Those who may not be able to afford a car; or who wish to avoid dependence upon oil resources are asked to sacrifice. And the wealthy are given a tax cut.
Although our vast military spending may be justified as particularly constitutional, it would be hard to support planning, financing, and waging war based on the faith and life of Jesus. The same Jesus who said: “those who live by the sword, will die by the sword”.
It is time for us to reconsider what polices and practices will support a life of thanks and praise, service and obedience, toward the God who has given us charge over his creation. And particularly, given us responsibility to love each other.
I believe that God has created me
and all that exists.
He has given me, and still preserves
My body and soul and all their powers
He provides me with food and clothing,
home and family, daily work, and all
I need from day to day….
…Therefore I surely ought to thank and praise,
serve and obey him.
The logical conclusion to such a belief, is the realization that all we have is a gift from God. And our grateful response must be to use our blessings in accordance to what Jesus declares as good and right, and just. It is therefore disappointing that many Christians, including Lutherans, believe in personal ownership of what is on loan from God. And use to personal advantage what is given for the benefit of all humankind.
Recently, Florida Gov. Rick Scott, made an unannounced appearance at the Tea Party rally and got a roaring ovation. He told them he was fighting for less government and lower taxes. "Less government, right? Lower taxes. No high-speed rail. It's your money. We're going to follow the constitution. We're going to watch spending like a hawk. It's your money."
Republican Scott wants to trim state spending by $5 billion and phase in property and corporate tax cuts. In doing so he says he is “going to follow the constitution”. I guess the idea that individuals own what is under their control might be constitutional. But it is not what Jesus taught. All our blessings, including money, belong to God. And the reason we “should watch spending like a hawk”, is because it is not our money. We are only stewards of what belongs to God.
If more people would consider our responsibility, for how our blessings can be applied toward what is good and right and just; the makeup of our state and federal budgets could really change. Projects such as light-rail, are aimed at those who by choice or necessity rely on public transportation. Those who may not be able to afford a car; or who wish to avoid dependence upon oil resources are asked to sacrifice. And the wealthy are given a tax cut.
Although our vast military spending may be justified as particularly constitutional, it would be hard to support planning, financing, and waging war based on the faith and life of Jesus. The same Jesus who said: “those who live by the sword, will die by the sword”.
It is time for us to reconsider what polices and practices will support a life of thanks and praise, service and obedience, toward the God who has given us charge over his creation. And particularly, given us responsibility to love each other.
Monday, April 4, 2011
A win for death penalty opponents
Mar 10, 2011 by Cathleen Falsani
On Ash Wednesday, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed a law abolishing the death penalty in his state, making the Land of Lincoln the 16th state where capital punishment is no longer an option.
"It is impossible to create a perfect system, free of all mistakes," Quinn said after signing the death penalty law, which takes effect July 1. "I think it's the right and just thing to abolish the death penalty and punish those who commit heinous crimes—evil people—with life in prison without parole or any chance of release."
Quinn, who is Catholic, revealed that he turned to his faith—to the Bible and to Catholic leaders and tradition—in contemplating the bill that lawmakers delivered to him in January.
The governor even quoted Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, the beloved archbishop of Chicago who died in 1996, saying, "In a complex, sophisticated democracy like ours, means other than the death penalty are available and can be used to protect society."
Religious leaders have been at the forefront of the death penalty abolitionist movement in Illinois and nationwide. But there has been a disconnect between their activism and the opinions of it.
According to a 2010 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 62 percent of Americans support the death penalty in murder cases, with only 30 percent saying they oppose it. That figure is nearly identical to the results of a similar survey in 2007, but lower than that of a 1996 survey, when 78 percent of Americans said they supported capital punishment for murder and just 18 percent said they were opposed.
Survey results on the death penalty vary little across religious groups—at least among white Americans. Last year, 74 percent of white evangelicals, 71 percent of white mainline Protestants and 68 percent of white Catholics said they favor capital punishment, according to Pew. But fewer than half of black Protestants (37 percent) and Hispanic Catholics (43 percent) said they approve of the death penalty.
"The light of God is shining, shining positively on our state," Illinois state senator Kwame Raoul said after Quinn signed the death penalty ban.
Raoul was not alone in thinking that the Illinois ban is a moral as well as a legal victory for people of good faith. As more states examine whether to eliminate capital punishment, some wonder whether the days of the death penalty are numbered and what, if any, role people of faith might play in reaching such a tipping point.
Racial disparities and too many wrongful convictions are often cited as compelling reasons to abolish the death penalty. In Illinois, for instance, the state executed 12 prisoners after the death penalty was reinstated in 1977. During that time, Illinois also exonerated 20 death row inmates.
"One significant moral problem with the state having the authority over capital punishment is that the decision is irrevocable and so often carried out in ways that are racially questionable—studies prove this," said Richard Cizik, a former vice president of the National Association of Evangelicals. "My conscience can't accept this appalling reality.
"If it's not a matter of serious reflection, it should be!" Cizik continued. "To miss the moral questions at stake is to be hard of heart."
According to Mike Farrell, president of the group Death Penalty Focus, many evangelicals and other religious folks still have tough hearts when it comes to moral questions about the death penalty.
What Farrell referred to as the "fundamentalist Christian community" remains "wedded to a political position that embraces state killing and insists that its use is right, holy, biblically ordained and necessary—'the Lord's work,' as some would have it," he said.
Yet Farrell—best known for his role as Capt. B. J. Hunnicutt on TV's M*A*S*H*—said he's seeing a change of opinion among rank-and-file Catholics, a shift he attributes to the "strength of their leadership's advocacy."
He sees a similar trend emerging among mainstream Protestants but senses "that the shift toward abolition in their community of believers is more reflective of a general awakening on the part of the American public."
Farrell believes people of faith can have a significant impact in moving toward a nationwide abolition by addressing capital punishment as a pressing moral and spiritual concern and shedding light on the "sins of the [justice] system."
"I believe we are moving ever more rapidly to a point where abolition is inevitable," Farrell said. —RNS (reprint from Christian Century)
On Ash Wednesday, Illinois Governor Pat Quinn signed a law abolishing the death penalty in his state, making the Land of Lincoln the 16th state where capital punishment is no longer an option.
"It is impossible to create a perfect system, free of all mistakes," Quinn said after signing the death penalty law, which takes effect July 1. "I think it's the right and just thing to abolish the death penalty and punish those who commit heinous crimes—evil people—with life in prison without parole or any chance of release."
Quinn, who is Catholic, revealed that he turned to his faith—to the Bible and to Catholic leaders and tradition—in contemplating the bill that lawmakers delivered to him in January.
The governor even quoted Cardinal Joseph Bernardin, the beloved archbishop of Chicago who died in 1996, saying, "In a complex, sophisticated democracy like ours, means other than the death penalty are available and can be used to protect society."
Religious leaders have been at the forefront of the death penalty abolitionist movement in Illinois and nationwide. But there has been a disconnect between their activism and the opinions of it.
According to a 2010 survey by the Pew Forum on Religion & Public Life, 62 percent of Americans support the death penalty in murder cases, with only 30 percent saying they oppose it. That figure is nearly identical to the results of a similar survey in 2007, but lower than that of a 1996 survey, when 78 percent of Americans said they supported capital punishment for murder and just 18 percent said they were opposed.
Survey results on the death penalty vary little across religious groups—at least among white Americans. Last year, 74 percent of white evangelicals, 71 percent of white mainline Protestants and 68 percent of white Catholics said they favor capital punishment, according to Pew. But fewer than half of black Protestants (37 percent) and Hispanic Catholics (43 percent) said they approve of the death penalty.
"The light of God is shining, shining positively on our state," Illinois state senator Kwame Raoul said after Quinn signed the death penalty ban.
Raoul was not alone in thinking that the Illinois ban is a moral as well as a legal victory for people of good faith. As more states examine whether to eliminate capital punishment, some wonder whether the days of the death penalty are numbered and what, if any, role people of faith might play in reaching such a tipping point.
Racial disparities and too many wrongful convictions are often cited as compelling reasons to abolish the death penalty. In Illinois, for instance, the state executed 12 prisoners after the death penalty was reinstated in 1977. During that time, Illinois also exonerated 20 death row inmates.
"One significant moral problem with the state having the authority over capital punishment is that the decision is irrevocable and so often carried out in ways that are racially questionable—studies prove this," said Richard Cizik, a former vice president of the National Association of Evangelicals. "My conscience can't accept this appalling reality.
"If it's not a matter of serious reflection, it should be!" Cizik continued. "To miss the moral questions at stake is to be hard of heart."
According to Mike Farrell, president of the group Death Penalty Focus, many evangelicals and other religious folks still have tough hearts when it comes to moral questions about the death penalty.
What Farrell referred to as the "fundamentalist Christian community" remains "wedded to a political position that embraces state killing and insists that its use is right, holy, biblically ordained and necessary—'the Lord's work,' as some would have it," he said.
Yet Farrell—best known for his role as Capt. B. J. Hunnicutt on TV's M*A*S*H*—said he's seeing a change of opinion among rank-and-file Catholics, a shift he attributes to the "strength of their leadership's advocacy."
He sees a similar trend emerging among mainstream Protestants but senses "that the shift toward abolition in their community of believers is more reflective of a general awakening on the part of the American public."
Farrell believes people of faith can have a significant impact in moving toward a nationwide abolition by addressing capital punishment as a pressing moral and spiritual concern and shedding light on the "sins of the [justice] system."
"I believe we are moving ever more rapidly to a point where abolition is inevitable," Farrell said. —RNS (reprint from Christian Century)
Thursday, March 17, 2011
ACTS OF GOD
Explaining the response of the Japanese people to the recent earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear accident, a radio commentator pointed to their secular society. With a secular orientation one is less likely to ask: “who is to blame?” The answers to why something happens come from science and are not based in a theological mind-set. They would not likely see an act of nature as punishment from God.
Although Jesus is the center of a theological world-view, he challenged the practice of finding blame. When people asked who was to blame for a man being born blind (either his parents or himself), Jesus answers: “he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him.”
Disciples of Jesus are led, by his example, not to determine blame in any challenging situation; but to apply the love of God in addressing people’s needs. In response to the tragedy facing the Japanese people, there will be time later to discuss the science of quakes, waves and nuclear energy. Now is the time to assist providing food, medicine, shelter, etc. Now is the time to act as God’s loving hands. Such is a holy response of love and these are sacred works of God.
Those who react by asking: “Whose sin caused this to happen?” are not following the example of Jesus.
Although Jesus is the center of a theological world-view, he challenged the practice of finding blame. When people asked who was to blame for a man being born blind (either his parents or himself), Jesus answers: “he was born blind so that God’s works might be revealed in him.”
Disciples of Jesus are led, by his example, not to determine blame in any challenging situation; but to apply the love of God in addressing people’s needs. In response to the tragedy facing the Japanese people, there will be time later to discuss the science of quakes, waves and nuclear energy. Now is the time to assist providing food, medicine, shelter, etc. Now is the time to act as God’s loving hands. Such is a holy response of love and these are sacred works of God.
Those who react by asking: “Whose sin caused this to happen?” are not following the example of Jesus.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
We Are Dust
Remember that “you are dust and to dust you shall return” (Gen. 3:19)
In our Ash Wednesday liturgy we apply ashes (as a cross on the forehead) while we say these words. It is meant to begin a season of repentance. We are reminded of our humble beginnings. We are also reminded that we are mortals and will die.
This may be a discomforting realization for many. But it will be especially so for those who live lives of privilege.
In the developed world, (of which the United States is a part) many are comfortable in large homes, with the blessing of good health, and the fulfillment of every need. For those of us who are so fortunate, the reality of death and dying is not a welcome thought. In fact, we may arrange our lives precisely to avoid considering such truth.
I would suggest, however, that the disciple of Jesus of Nazareth lives with the reality of hunger, illness, and death every day. Because, every day Jesus was found among those mindful of being dust; and that is where his example would lead us.
Today in the United States, we find a widening gap between the privileged and those who have unfulfilled needs. Truth is that the numbers of the struggling are increasing. The ranks of the hungry, the homeless, and the dying are a growing segment of our population. The disciple of Jesus, following his lead, will always be confronted with the pain of the human condition. Therefore, being reminded that “we are dust” will not hit the disciple unaware; and we can be ever ready to share the good news of the resurrection.
In our Ash Wednesday liturgy we apply ashes (as a cross on the forehead) while we say these words. It is meant to begin a season of repentance. We are reminded of our humble beginnings. We are also reminded that we are mortals and will die.
This may be a discomforting realization for many. But it will be especially so for those who live lives of privilege.
In the developed world, (of which the United States is a part) many are comfortable in large homes, with the blessing of good health, and the fulfillment of every need. For those of us who are so fortunate, the reality of death and dying is not a welcome thought. In fact, we may arrange our lives precisely to avoid considering such truth.
I would suggest, however, that the disciple of Jesus of Nazareth lives with the reality of hunger, illness, and death every day. Because, every day Jesus was found among those mindful of being dust; and that is where his example would lead us.
Today in the United States, we find a widening gap between the privileged and those who have unfulfilled needs. Truth is that the numbers of the struggling are increasing. The ranks of the hungry, the homeless, and the dying are a growing segment of our population. The disciple of Jesus, following his lead, will always be confronted with the pain of the human condition. Therefore, being reminded that “we are dust” will not hit the disciple unaware; and we can be ever ready to share the good news of the resurrection.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Lutheran World Relief Responds to House Budget Cuts
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Lutheran World Relief Responds to House Budget Cuts
Baltimore, February 23, 2011 -- Last week the House of Representatives voted to cut more than $60 billion in U.S. international and domestic spending for the remainder of the current fiscal year. Although supportive of efforts to better steward public funds, Lutheran World Relief (LWR) urges U.S. Lutherans and lawmakers to remember that, when it comes to global relief and development, human lives hang in the balance.
LWR President and CEO John Nunes released a letter to U.S. Lutherans before the vote saying that, "At less than one percent of the total national budget, global development assistance is one of the best investments our country can make. Through modest and strategic assistance, the U.S. puts the values Lutherans embody into action: accompaniment, sustainability, sufficiency, mercy and human dignity."
"It is incredible to imagine that in response to the next humanitarian crisis, the next Haiti or Darfur, that our country might simply fail to show up," says LWR Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, Annalise Romoser. "But that is precisely what could happen if this bill (H.R. 1) becomes law."
The bill cuts global disaster aid by 67 percent, global refugee assistance by 45 percent and emergency food aid by 41 percent relative to 2010 levels. Ironically, in addition to life threatening cuts to disaster relief programs, it could effectively eliminate U.S. assistance to help farmers in the developing world grow more of their own food, thus making already vulnerable communities more susceptible to food shortages and more reliant on emergency food aid. It also reduces global health accounts and programs that successfully help prevent infant mortality.
"Addressing the drivers of the national debt is a reasonable priority for Congress," states Romoser. "But international assistance is simply not one of those drivers. Cuts to these programs do little to balance the budget and put innocent lives and our country's reputation as a global leader at risk."
Although LWR receives the vast majority of its funding from Lutheran churches, individuals and denominations, not from the government, it believes that complementary government assistance provides critical resources to the marginalized and impoverished communities with which it works. As a result, it has called on its supporters to contact their members of Congress and to share with them the value they place on global relief and development.
By supporting its community-based relief and development work around the world, LWR supporters have already demonstrated the value U.S. Lutherans place on development assistance. They have helped LWR reach countless communities in need of disaster relief, support for improved food production and interventions to help prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as malaria. U.S. investments in global development enhance these programs, allowing more people to receive effective life-saving care and resources.
Lutheran World Relief Responds to House Budget Cuts
Baltimore, February 23, 2011 -- Last week the House of Representatives voted to cut more than $60 billion in U.S. international and domestic spending for the remainder of the current fiscal year. Although supportive of efforts to better steward public funds, Lutheran World Relief (LWR) urges U.S. Lutherans and lawmakers to remember that, when it comes to global relief and development, human lives hang in the balance.
LWR President and CEO John Nunes released a letter to U.S. Lutherans before the vote saying that, "At less than one percent of the total national budget, global development assistance is one of the best investments our country can make. Through modest and strategic assistance, the U.S. puts the values Lutherans embody into action: accompaniment, sustainability, sufficiency, mercy and human dignity."
"It is incredible to imagine that in response to the next humanitarian crisis, the next Haiti or Darfur, that our country might simply fail to show up," says LWR Director of Public Policy and Advocacy, Annalise Romoser. "But that is precisely what could happen if this bill (H.R. 1) becomes law."
The bill cuts global disaster aid by 67 percent, global refugee assistance by 45 percent and emergency food aid by 41 percent relative to 2010 levels. Ironically, in addition to life threatening cuts to disaster relief programs, it could effectively eliminate U.S. assistance to help farmers in the developing world grow more of their own food, thus making already vulnerable communities more susceptible to food shortages and more reliant on emergency food aid. It also reduces global health accounts and programs that successfully help prevent infant mortality.
"Addressing the drivers of the national debt is a reasonable priority for Congress," states Romoser. "But international assistance is simply not one of those drivers. Cuts to these programs do little to balance the budget and put innocent lives and our country's reputation as a global leader at risk."
Although LWR receives the vast majority of its funding from Lutheran churches, individuals and denominations, not from the government, it believes that complementary government assistance provides critical resources to the marginalized and impoverished communities with which it works. As a result, it has called on its supporters to contact their members of Congress and to share with them the value they place on global relief and development.
By supporting its community-based relief and development work around the world, LWR supporters have already demonstrated the value U.S. Lutherans place on development assistance. They have helped LWR reach countless communities in need of disaster relief, support for improved food production and interventions to help prevent the spread of deadly diseases such as malaria. U.S. investments in global development enhance these programs, allowing more people to receive effective life-saving care and resources.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Depends on where you stand; how you see it!
The tenor of our debate has gained renewed interest in recent days. Just what is and is not acceptable or appropriate language is of concern. And, after the shootings at a “Congress on the Corner” event in Arizona, language that involves guns is being examined.
Americans who come from the rural parts of our country defend guns as important to their way of life. To have a political figure speak of “not retreating, but reloading” simply comes natural. And to put the sign of “cross-hairs” over a congressional district simply shows that this is a targeted seat. To load, aim, and target are natural ways to speak in rural America: just as natural as living in defense of the Second Amendment.
However, Americans who live in urban parts of the country can also say that guns play an important part in their daily lives. Having lived most of my life in metropolitan areas, I hear of guns every day. They are the instrument of death on our city streets. I cannot open the local paper, watch the evening news, or listen to the radio in the morning without hearing of shootings or killings. The language of loading, aiming, and targeting is unfortunately a part of my life (without even owning a gun).
In order to provide protection for the “general welfare” of the American citizen, it is important for each of us to appreciate the situation of the other.
There has to be a protection of the right to be safe, as well as a protection for the right to own and operate a gun. The gun represents something different in the rural spaces than it is in the urban streets. In one instance it may be a way of life. In the other it is most often a way of death.
Americans who come from the rural parts of our country defend guns as important to their way of life. To have a political figure speak of “not retreating, but reloading” simply comes natural. And to put the sign of “cross-hairs” over a congressional district simply shows that this is a targeted seat. To load, aim, and target are natural ways to speak in rural America: just as natural as living in defense of the Second Amendment.
However, Americans who live in urban parts of the country can also say that guns play an important part in their daily lives. Having lived most of my life in metropolitan areas, I hear of guns every day. They are the instrument of death on our city streets. I cannot open the local paper, watch the evening news, or listen to the radio in the morning without hearing of shootings or killings. The language of loading, aiming, and targeting is unfortunately a part of my life (without even owning a gun).
In order to provide protection for the “general welfare” of the American citizen, it is important for each of us to appreciate the situation of the other.
There has to be a protection of the right to be safe, as well as a protection for the right to own and operate a gun. The gun represents something different in the rural spaces than it is in the urban streets. In one instance it may be a way of life. In the other it is most often a way of death.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Authentic Christ-like Presence
While praying in worship on Christmas Eve, one petition caught my attention. Each year, I pray on behalf of the congregation, that God use us to establish an authentic Christ-like presence in the world.
I do not know how those words affect the lives of those who are there to celebrate the Nativity of Jesus; but when I pray these words they call forth a response. I am reminded of Jesus saying: “Follow me!” I am moved to reclaim the vocation of a disciple.
As Christians seek to be true to the way of Jesus, the Christ-like presence becomes real and is extended. Through this language, voiced in our prayers, we are drawn to reconsider Jesus as the model of the godly life. Such words add credence to the question: “What would Jesus do?” A question that sends us back to the Gospels; back to the story of Jesus’ words and deeds.
Although we have two thousand years of Church history; although that history includes great councils which have produced creeds and proclamations; although individual denominations continue to have conventions and commissions who produce theological statements; the authentic Christ-like presence has only one source. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit who would bring to mind all that he said and did.
May each Christian continue to seek the guidance of the Spirit toward a life of discipleship. There is no doubt that our world is still in need of the Spirit of grace and mercy that only found in Jesus.
I do not know how those words affect the lives of those who are there to celebrate the Nativity of Jesus; but when I pray these words they call forth a response. I am reminded of Jesus saying: “Follow me!” I am moved to reclaim the vocation of a disciple.
As Christians seek to be true to the way of Jesus, the Christ-like presence becomes real and is extended. Through this language, voiced in our prayers, we are drawn to reconsider Jesus as the model of the godly life. Such words add credence to the question: “What would Jesus do?” A question that sends us back to the Gospels; back to the story of Jesus’ words and deeds.
Although we have two thousand years of Church history; although that history includes great councils which have produced creeds and proclamations; although individual denominations continue to have conventions and commissions who produce theological statements; the authentic Christ-like presence has only one source. Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit who would bring to mind all that he said and did.
May each Christian continue to seek the guidance of the Spirit toward a life of discipleship. There is no doubt that our world is still in need of the Spirit of grace and mercy that only found in Jesus.
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