Friday, May 22, 2009
HEART ATTACK
Since many are interested in "what happened?" I thought I would answer that here. This is what I know and think I know from the whirlwind of events.
Monday evening around 10:00 I began to have symptoms. I had had no warning signs. I did yard work that day. We had just been to Pepperdine for the lectures and I took all the stairs with no trouble - only stopping for Kathy! Plus my parents had no heart attacks and both lived to 81. So it took a while to rule out other possibilities and say, "You know, this must be a heart attack."
We called 911 around 1 am. They arrived in 5 minutes or less. On the phone they already told Kathy to give me an aspirin to chew. EMT gave me 3 nitros. No easing of symptoms.
It didn't take ER long to say, "You are having a heart attack. We are calling in the Cath Lab team." They began to give medications which did start to ease symptoms by the time I was in the Cath lab.
Of course, one is being poked and prodded and shaved and asked questions in a whirlwind of activity. End result was one stent in the LAD artery that had been 100% blocked. What I think must have happened and I believe I heard a doctor say is that I had a significant blockage and something (fatty deposits, plaque) broke loose and finished blocking it off. I also have another less significant blockage that will be treated by medication.
By 4 am I was in ICU. Although there was blocked blood flow to part of my heart for nearly 3 hours, the initial prognosis is for a good recovery. The cardiologist says I can expect significant regeneration of the heart tissue. (There's a sermon theme.)
I did get released somewhat earlier than protocol. Somehow the middle of the night scenario threw off the cardiologist's timing. When he first saw me Tuesday morning, he was assuming I had come in Monday. Before I actually went home (in less than 36 hours from the 911 call) he came to tell me I wasn't technically supposed to leave, but things looked good and he would allow it if I desired. I desired.
So I am home, but totally wiped out. Lots of sleeping. I took a walk with Kathy yesterday evening and couldn't make it around the block without stopping to rest. But this morning my head feels a little clearer and more normal.
I think partly due to the short time frame I am really having trouble believing this happened. I did the yard on Monday, cooked out, and went to bed. I was back home by Wednesday noon. It's a little like "what really happened on Tuesday?"
Of course, six prescriptions and a weekly pill box make it somewhat real. What a bummer.
Some observations: Kaiser is a big HMO and can really be frustrating, but my experience in a crisis was 100% positive. Everyone, without exception, was great. Ambulance, ER, Docs, nurses, nutrition servers, all were very nice, positive, and competent. And the new hospital is great. Thumbs up to Kaiser.
Kathy and the girls were fantastic. Supportive, caring, competent. They didn't freak out, they just went into support mode. I thank God for a great family.
What a blessing to have a church family and the extended care, support and prayer that brings. I suspect we all take that for granted. As I was being wheel-chaired out to come home, a Kaiser nurse came down the hall and upon seeing me said, "What happened to my preacher!" I told her I had a heart attack and she kissed me on the forehead. That was perfect, very touching, and somehow summarized the care and concern of both the medical team and the church.
Part of what makes us human is our ability to reflect on our own existence and mortality. But in the ER before the extent or kind of heart attack was known when the ER doctor said "You are having a heart attack," I had the experience for the first time of "I could die tonight." More about that probably in a sermon.
Thanks to all near and far away who have written a note on Facebook or emailed or sent a card - and prayed. Kathy and the girls also say "thank you."
Monday evening around 10:00 I began to have symptoms. I had had no warning signs. I did yard work that day. We had just been to Pepperdine for the lectures and I took all the stairs with no trouble - only stopping for Kathy! Plus my parents had no heart attacks and both lived to 81. So it took a while to rule out other possibilities and say, "You know, this must be a heart attack."
We called 911 around 1 am. They arrived in 5 minutes or less. On the phone they already told Kathy to give me an aspirin to chew. EMT gave me 3 nitros. No easing of symptoms.
It didn't take ER long to say, "You are having a heart attack. We are calling in the Cath Lab team." They began to give medications which did start to ease symptoms by the time I was in the Cath lab.
Of course, one is being poked and prodded and shaved and asked questions in a whirlwind of activity. End result was one stent in the LAD artery that had been 100% blocked. What I think must have happened and I believe I heard a doctor say is that I had a significant blockage and something (fatty deposits, plaque) broke loose and finished blocking it off. I also have another less significant blockage that will be treated by medication.
By 4 am I was in ICU. Although there was blocked blood flow to part of my heart for nearly 3 hours, the initial prognosis is for a good recovery. The cardiologist says I can expect significant regeneration of the heart tissue. (There's a sermon theme.)
I did get released somewhat earlier than protocol. Somehow the middle of the night scenario threw off the cardiologist's timing. When he first saw me Tuesday morning, he was assuming I had come in Monday. Before I actually went home (in less than 36 hours from the 911 call) he came to tell me I wasn't technically supposed to leave, but things looked good and he would allow it if I desired. I desired.
So I am home, but totally wiped out. Lots of sleeping. I took a walk with Kathy yesterday evening and couldn't make it around the block without stopping to rest. But this morning my head feels a little clearer and more normal.
I think partly due to the short time frame I am really having trouble believing this happened. I did the yard on Monday, cooked out, and went to bed. I was back home by Wednesday noon. It's a little like "what really happened on Tuesday?"
Of course, six prescriptions and a weekly pill box make it somewhat real. What a bummer.
Some observations: Kaiser is a big HMO and can really be frustrating, but my experience in a crisis was 100% positive. Everyone, without exception, was great. Ambulance, ER, Docs, nurses, nutrition servers, all were very nice, positive, and competent. And the new hospital is great. Thumbs up to Kaiser.
Kathy and the girls were fantastic. Supportive, caring, competent. They didn't freak out, they just went into support mode. I thank God for a great family.
What a blessing to have a church family and the extended care, support and prayer that brings. I suspect we all take that for granted. As I was being wheel-chaired out to come home, a Kaiser nurse came down the hall and upon seeing me said, "What happened to my preacher!" I told her I had a heart attack and she kissed me on the forehead. That was perfect, very touching, and somehow summarized the care and concern of both the medical team and the church.
Part of what makes us human is our ability to reflect on our own existence and mortality. But in the ER before the extent or kind of heart attack was known when the ER doctor said "You are having a heart attack," I had the experience for the first time of "I could die tonight." More about that probably in a sermon.
Thanks to all near and far away who have written a note on Facebook or emailed or sent a card - and prayed. Kathy and the girls also say "thank you."
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
HISTORY LESSONS
One of the reasons I love to read history is to see both the right things people did in their lives and their mistakes. Learn from others. Moreover, how people have worded things, especially in different eras, can be striking.
I am currently reading, among other things, Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin which profiles many of Lincoln's political rivals whom he then appointed to posts in his administration. One such rival was Salmon P. Chase.
Chase always longed for achievement. His family worried that he had his priorities wrong. His sister wrote to him, "I confess I almost tremble for you as I observe your desire to distinguish yourself and apparent devotedness to those pursuits whose interests terminate in this life." The fact that I would not say it that way makes me stop and soak it in.
Chase's 23 year old wife died from complications of childbirth. Not only did he greatly mourn her loss but he also felt guilt on two counts. First he had been assured by the doctor that she would recover so he had been away on business when she died. "Oh how I accused myself of folly and wickedness in leaving her when yet sick. How I mourned that the prospect of a little addition to my reputation...should have tempted me away."
Second, he regretted not having engaged with her more on matters of spiritual concern and salvation. "Oh if I had not contented myself with a few conversations on the subject of religion, if I had incessantly followed her with kind & earnest persuasion...she might have been before her death enrolled among the professed followers of the Lamb. But I procrastinated and now she is gone."
A friend once described Chase's pursuit of achievement with these words. "He restlessly looked beyond for the will-of-the-wisp, which deceitfully danced before his gaze."
On the positive side was Chase's resolute determination to carry on a wiser life having experienced a "second conversion." In light of many losses, 3 young wives as well as children, he lamented but carried on with life. "What a vale of misery this world is. To me it has been emphatically so. Death has pursued me incessantly ever since I was twenty-five....Sometimes I feel as if I could give up--as if I must give up. And then after all I rise & press on."
In describing Lincoln's dealing with the losses in his life, particularly his first love, Ann Rutledge, Kearns quotes Leo Tolstoy. "Only people who are capable of loving strongly can also suffer with great sorrow; but this same necessity of loving serves to counteract their grief and heal them."
And a little vignette of simplicity in life: After Ann's death Lincoln headed out to Springfield, Illinois to begin his law career. He came to the general store owned by Joshua Speed who would become one of his best friends. Lincoln inquired about purchasing a bed but warned Speed that if he failed he would be unable to repay him. Speed looked him over, impressed with his concern over possibly not being able to repay a small debt, and offered for Lincoln to bunk in with him till he got established. Lincoln grab his bags, bounded up the stairs and returned in a minute exclaiming, "Well, Speed, I am moved!"
I don't really want to be able to relocate that easily, but there is something attractive in traveling light!
I am currently reading, among other things, Team of Rivals by Doris Kearns Goodwin which profiles many of Lincoln's political rivals whom he then appointed to posts in his administration. One such rival was Salmon P. Chase.
Chase always longed for achievement. His family worried that he had his priorities wrong. His sister wrote to him, "I confess I almost tremble for you as I observe your desire to distinguish yourself and apparent devotedness to those pursuits whose interests terminate in this life." The fact that I would not say it that way makes me stop and soak it in.
Chase's 23 year old wife died from complications of childbirth. Not only did he greatly mourn her loss but he also felt guilt on two counts. First he had been assured by the doctor that she would recover so he had been away on business when she died. "Oh how I accused myself of folly and wickedness in leaving her when yet sick. How I mourned that the prospect of a little addition to my reputation...should have tempted me away."
Second, he regretted not having engaged with her more on matters of spiritual concern and salvation. "Oh if I had not contented myself with a few conversations on the subject of religion, if I had incessantly followed her with kind & earnest persuasion...she might have been before her death enrolled among the professed followers of the Lamb. But I procrastinated and now she is gone."
A friend once described Chase's pursuit of achievement with these words. "He restlessly looked beyond for the will-of-the-wisp, which deceitfully danced before his gaze."
On the positive side was Chase's resolute determination to carry on a wiser life having experienced a "second conversion." In light of many losses, 3 young wives as well as children, he lamented but carried on with life. "What a vale of misery this world is. To me it has been emphatically so. Death has pursued me incessantly ever since I was twenty-five....Sometimes I feel as if I could give up--as if I must give up. And then after all I rise & press on."
In describing Lincoln's dealing with the losses in his life, particularly his first love, Ann Rutledge, Kearns quotes Leo Tolstoy. "Only people who are capable of loving strongly can also suffer with great sorrow; but this same necessity of loving serves to counteract their grief and heal them."
And a little vignette of simplicity in life: After Ann's death Lincoln headed out to Springfield, Illinois to begin his law career. He came to the general store owned by Joshua Speed who would become one of his best friends. Lincoln inquired about purchasing a bed but warned Speed that if he failed he would be unable to repay him. Speed looked him over, impressed with his concern over possibly not being able to repay a small debt, and offered for Lincoln to bunk in with him till he got established. Lincoln grab his bags, bounded up the stairs and returned in a minute exclaiming, "Well, Speed, I am moved!"
I don't really want to be able to relocate that easily, but there is something attractive in traveling light!
Thursday, February 12, 2009
THE NEW EXODUS
Our church home groups are beginning a new study leading up to Easter. The material covers the last week of Jesus in Jerusalem. Earlier in Luke's gospel we are given the setting and context for the "passion" week.
In Luke 9 Jesus asks the disciples who they think he is and we get Peter's great confession that Jesus is the long awaited messiah, "The Christ of God." But then comes an unimaginable, unfathomable response from Jesus. He tells them for the first time that he will die! Talk about pulling the rug from under them!
A week later Peter, James and John are given a special privilege which serves to reinforce their shaken, uncertain faith. They accompany Jesus on a mountain at which time he is "transfigured" appearing in a glorious state. Moreover, the two most iconic figures of the OT are with him - Moses and Elijah.
Moses received the law of God (commonly called the "law of Moses") directly from the hand of God on Mount Sinai. Moses was God's chosen servant to lead the exodus of Israel out of Egyptian slavery and through the Red Sea. Moses took them up to the border of the Promised Land. And Elijah was the great prophet of God who was carried away in a flaming chariot into the arms of God himself. It was Elijah for whom the empty chair was reserved at Passover celebrations anticipating his return heralding the new age.
The Law and the Prophets! All of Israel's faith and life are summed up in that phrase. And all of that is summed up in Moses and Elijah. Now they appear with Jesus in front of Peter, James and John and they are discussing something. Most translations say something like the "departure" of Jesus which he is about to "accomplish" or "fulfill" in Jerusalem.
What "departure"? Yes, it is his death, but the actual term used in the conversation is "exodus"!! Talk about a loaded term! The whole of the history of Israel represented in Moses and Elijah is acknowledging the great new act of God, the New Exodus, which will be accomplished by the death and resurrection of Jesus.
What he is about to accomplish or fulfill in Jerusalem will be the ultimate rescue from bondage and slavery into the ultimate promised land of God's kingdom. For all, forever.
And so the scene on the mountain ends not with Peter's implication that the three figures are peers on an equal footing, but with God's call to listen to his chosen Son. And the other two disappear.
The disciples would still struggle with the idea of the messiah's death. But years later Peter would remember this moment on the mountain as a bedrock experience of his time with Jesus and of his faith.
He writes, perhaps 30 years later, "We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.' We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain." (2 Peter 1:16-18)
In Luke 9 Jesus asks the disciples who they think he is and we get Peter's great confession that Jesus is the long awaited messiah, "The Christ of God." But then comes an unimaginable, unfathomable response from Jesus. He tells them for the first time that he will die! Talk about pulling the rug from under them!
A week later Peter, James and John are given a special privilege which serves to reinforce their shaken, uncertain faith. They accompany Jesus on a mountain at which time he is "transfigured" appearing in a glorious state. Moreover, the two most iconic figures of the OT are with him - Moses and Elijah.
Moses received the law of God (commonly called the "law of Moses") directly from the hand of God on Mount Sinai. Moses was God's chosen servant to lead the exodus of Israel out of Egyptian slavery and through the Red Sea. Moses took them up to the border of the Promised Land. And Elijah was the great prophet of God who was carried away in a flaming chariot into the arms of God himself. It was Elijah for whom the empty chair was reserved at Passover celebrations anticipating his return heralding the new age.
The Law and the Prophets! All of Israel's faith and life are summed up in that phrase. And all of that is summed up in Moses and Elijah. Now they appear with Jesus in front of Peter, James and John and they are discussing something. Most translations say something like the "departure" of Jesus which he is about to "accomplish" or "fulfill" in Jerusalem.
What "departure"? Yes, it is his death, but the actual term used in the conversation is "exodus"!! Talk about a loaded term! The whole of the history of Israel represented in Moses and Elijah is acknowledging the great new act of God, the New Exodus, which will be accomplished by the death and resurrection of Jesus.
What he is about to accomplish or fulfill in Jerusalem will be the ultimate rescue from bondage and slavery into the ultimate promised land of God's kingdom. For all, forever.
And so the scene on the mountain ends not with Peter's implication that the three figures are peers on an equal footing, but with God's call to listen to his chosen Son. And the other two disappear.
The disciples would still struggle with the idea of the messiah's death. But years later Peter would remember this moment on the mountain as a bedrock experience of his time with Jesus and of his faith.
He writes, perhaps 30 years later, "We did not follow cleverly invented stories when we told you about the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received honor and glory from God the Father when the voice came to him from the Majestic Glory, saying, 'This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.' We ourselves heard this voice that came from heaven when we were with him on the sacred mountain." (2 Peter 1:16-18)
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
REAL PEOPLE MAKING CHOICES
In the book Washington's Crossing David Fischer describes the incredible turnaround of fortunes for the American Revolution from Christmas Day 1776 through the winter of 1777. The American cause was nearly dead by December of '76 after the loss of New York and the British occupation of New Jersey.
The Continental Army was a ragtag army of short enlistments constantly expiring, low morale, and destitute of proper clothing (many marched barefoot that winter).
Yet by the end of winter, the British were pushed back to the Jersey shoreline, on the defensive, and panicking in London while the morale and enlistments in the American cause spiraled upward. Yes, the generalship of Washington was key, but there was much more.
Fischer writes, "We have seen how it happened: not in a single event, or even a chain of events, but in a great web of contingency. This book is mainly about contingency, in the sense of people making choices, and choices making a difference in the world....This is the story of real choices that living people actually made...a dense web of contingency, in which many people made choices within a web of relationships...."
Not only was this true of many a subordinate and ordinary soldier under Washington's ultimate command, but also of many independent volunteer militias operating in New Jersey that winter. There was a spirit of independent, volunteer action that Washington at times bemoaned because he had no control over it, but which he came to appreciate and which helped save his army and the revolution.
After the battles of Trenton and Princeton, Washington's army was exhausted and depleted. The army retreated to recover and was down to less than 3,000 men in fighting condition. During this time the pressure was kept up by the militias who harassed British foragers and supply lines keeping the British on high alert the entire winter - and demoralized. There were 58 attacks by such volunteers in less than 4 months. It changed the whole complexion of the situation.
While military metaphors for the kingdom of God can have negative implications in light of history (ex. the Crusades), there is a powerful analogy to what American volunteers and small bands of citizens were able to accomplish in the Revolution and what we can do for God's kingdom in the world today. There is a place for the church as a whole to plan and act, but so much of the good that is done is by small groups of volunteers. And the choices that individuals make in trying circumstances and in order to seize opportunities change the world.
Real choices by the living people of God change the world one act, one "skirmish" at a time. Remember what Jesus said about even a cup of cold water offered in his name.
The Continental Army was a ragtag army of short enlistments constantly expiring, low morale, and destitute of proper clothing (many marched barefoot that winter).
Yet by the end of winter, the British were pushed back to the Jersey shoreline, on the defensive, and panicking in London while the morale and enlistments in the American cause spiraled upward. Yes, the generalship of Washington was key, but there was much more.
Fischer writes, "We have seen how it happened: not in a single event, or even a chain of events, but in a great web of contingency. This book is mainly about contingency, in the sense of people making choices, and choices making a difference in the world....This is the story of real choices that living people actually made...a dense web of contingency, in which many people made choices within a web of relationships...."
Not only was this true of many a subordinate and ordinary soldier under Washington's ultimate command, but also of many independent volunteer militias operating in New Jersey that winter. There was a spirit of independent, volunteer action that Washington at times bemoaned because he had no control over it, but which he came to appreciate and which helped save his army and the revolution.
After the battles of Trenton and Princeton, Washington's army was exhausted and depleted. The army retreated to recover and was down to less than 3,000 men in fighting condition. During this time the pressure was kept up by the militias who harassed British foragers and supply lines keeping the British on high alert the entire winter - and demoralized. There were 58 attacks by such volunteers in less than 4 months. It changed the whole complexion of the situation.
While military metaphors for the kingdom of God can have negative implications in light of history (ex. the Crusades), there is a powerful analogy to what American volunteers and small bands of citizens were able to accomplish in the Revolution and what we can do for God's kingdom in the world today. There is a place for the church as a whole to plan and act, but so much of the good that is done is by small groups of volunteers. And the choices that individuals make in trying circumstances and in order to seize opportunities change the world.
Real choices by the living people of God change the world one act, one "skirmish" at a time. Remember what Jesus said about even a cup of cold water offered in his name.
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
THE IMPACT OF BEING CONNECTED
The book Heroes and Cowards by Dora Costa and Matthew Kahn analyzes the causes of desertion in the Union army in the Civil War. Some 200,000 soldiers, roughly 10%, deserted. Many factors played a role, but the single biggest factor was the degree of social cohesion within the unit.
If a soldier was in a unit made up of his comrades from the same area with whom, therefore, he shared common interests, connections and experiences, he was unlikely to desert. But if there was a high degree of diversity within the unit - a lack of connection, a soldier was more likely to walk away.
As Ardant du Picq, a 19th century French colonel, wrote, "Four brave men who do not know each other will not dare attack a lion. Four less brave, but knowing each other well, sure of their reliability and consequently of mutual aid, will attack resolutely."
The book also notes that the more peer connections a soldier had in a prison camp the more likely he was to survive. And one soldier at Andersonville noted, "If one was captured alone, put with strangers and became sick, it was ten chances to one he would die unattended by any human being."
None of the above should be surprising. We are created to be connected. We function, grow, mature and achieve in connection with others. That is our God-created, God-designed pattern and he provides for that in his own family.
Connection is absolutely essential for thriving, even just surviving, spiritually. The call to a church connection, membership, commitment, and involvement is both a call to fulfill God's purpose in the world and for our own spiritual survival.
Those who don't connect end up deserting. And alone. Ultimately forever.
If a soldier was in a unit made up of his comrades from the same area with whom, therefore, he shared common interests, connections and experiences, he was unlikely to desert. But if there was a high degree of diversity within the unit - a lack of connection, a soldier was more likely to walk away.
As Ardant du Picq, a 19th century French colonel, wrote, "Four brave men who do not know each other will not dare attack a lion. Four less brave, but knowing each other well, sure of their reliability and consequently of mutual aid, will attack resolutely."
The book also notes that the more peer connections a soldier had in a prison camp the more likely he was to survive. And one soldier at Andersonville noted, "If one was captured alone, put with strangers and became sick, it was ten chances to one he would die unattended by any human being."
None of the above should be surprising. We are created to be connected. We function, grow, mature and achieve in connection with others. That is our God-created, God-designed pattern and he provides for that in his own family.
Connection is absolutely essential for thriving, even just surviving, spiritually. The call to a church connection, membership, commitment, and involvement is both a call to fulfill God's purpose in the world and for our own spiritual survival.
Those who don't connect end up deserting. And alone. Ultimately forever.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
A CULTURAL METAPHOR
Last Sunday Jerry Rushford, from Pepperdine University, shared stories at class time. A detail of one of the stories struck me as a metaphor for our world.
His story concerned Lord Shaftesbury in 19th century London who, though he was born to wealth and position and could have lived a life of ease and self-indulgence, became the greatest reformer of the era. He took on the cause of child labor abuse and ended the 16 hour work days for children. He championed the poor, the dispossessed, those who could not fend for themselves. He cared about the down and out such as prostitutes.
When he died in 1885 his funeral procession was attended by thousands, one of London's largest turnouts even though the procession occurred during a driving rainstorm.
In honor of Lord Shaftesbury and his acts of mercy, a statue was erected in the center of Piccadilly Circus. Piccadilly can claim to be, in some ways, the center of the w
orld. It is a circle from which radiate out significant roads in London, which at the time was the center of the world. (Americans might think of Times Square, but it is a johnny-come-lately.)
Alfred Gilbert's statue is today identified by tourist guides as Eros. Eros, the Roman name is Cupid, is the god of erotic love, lust, desire and was sometimes worshipped by fertility cults. But this is not Eros!
It is the angel of mercy shooting arrows of Christian mercy out into the world. (There may be some basis that Gilbert also had in mind Anteros as his model. This is the counterpart to Eros, the god of requited or returned love. Love that is shared and returned - also an appropriate concept.)
This inappropriate mis-identification is not only an affront to the orginal intent of the memorial and the honor of a man whose Christian love changed his world, it is a sad indicator of the whole cultural shift in which we live and which forgets true history and reinterprets the past in superficial ways. The substitution of cupid's erotic arrows for the love of Christ helping others says volumes.
What was originally selfless and purposeful, manifesting godly humanitarianism is replaced by the superficial, insipid, self-centered and sensual. And hardly anyone even notices.
His story concerned Lord Shaftesbury in 19th century London who, though he was born to wealth and position and could have lived a life of ease and self-indulgence, became the greatest reformer of the era. He took on the cause of child labor abuse and ended the 16 hour work days for children. He championed the poor, the dispossessed, those who could not fend for themselves. He cared about the down and out such as prostitutes.
When he died in 1885 his funeral procession was attended by thousands, one of London's largest turnouts even though the procession occurred during a driving rainstorm.
In honor of Lord Shaftesbury and his acts of mercy, a statue was erected in the center of Piccadilly Circus. Piccadilly can claim to be, in some ways, the center of the w
orld. It is a circle from which radiate out significant roads in London, which at the time was the center of the world. (Americans might think of Times Square, but it is a johnny-come-lately.)Alfred Gilbert's statue is today identified by tourist guides as Eros. Eros, the Roman name is Cupid, is the god of erotic love, lust, desire and was sometimes worshipped by fertility cults. But this is not Eros!
It is the angel of mercy shooting arrows of Christian mercy out into the world. (There may be some basis that Gilbert also had in mind Anteros as his model. This is the counterpart to Eros, the god of requited or returned love. Love that is shared and returned - also an appropriate concept.)
This inappropriate mis-identification is not only an affront to the orginal intent of the memorial and the honor of a man whose Christian love changed his world, it is a sad indicator of the whole cultural shift in which we live and which forgets true history and reinterprets the past in superficial ways. The substitution of cupid's erotic arrows for the love of Christ helping others says volumes.
What was originally selfless and purposeful, manifesting godly humanitarianism is replaced by the superficial, insipid, self-centered and sensual. And hardly anyone even notices.
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
CONSEQUENCES
I am a Texas Longhorn football fan. Last night they ended the season with an exciting, come-from-behind bowl victory. But the season ended up quite a frustration.
Missouri and Oklahoma played for the Big 12 championship - Texas beat them both in the season. Oklahoma and Florida, both with one loss like Texas, are playing for the championship. Again, Texas beat Oklahoma.
A few weeks ago Texas was #1 but loss to Texas Tech's high powered offense. Texas had come from behind to go ahead with less than 2 minutes left in the game. Tech was driving when a pass was tipped into the air and floated right to a Texas back defender. It was one of those kind of floaters your grandmother could have caught. But he dropped it.
Tech scored and won. And the above scenario is the result.
We can understand the defensive back choking in the moment. We have all done it. We can forgive that and know his team mates have done so. We wish him well. But the consequences are still what they are.
Life's decisions, actions and mistakes have consequences. It's what all parents try to teach their children. It is also a huge spiritual lesson.
For while the grace of God and the gift of forgiveness is an unfathomable blessing to be claimed and celebrated, choices still have consequences. Forgiveness does not erase all consequences. Jesus still had the nail marks in his hands and the gash in his side for Thomas to see and feel. May we respond in 2009 as Thomas did centuries ago, "My Lord and my God!" - so there will be fewer nail marks and scars in our lives and in the world.
Missouri and Oklahoma played for the Big 12 championship - Texas beat them both in the season. Oklahoma and Florida, both with one loss like Texas, are playing for the championship. Again, Texas beat Oklahoma.
A few weeks ago Texas was #1 but loss to Texas Tech's high powered offense. Texas had come from behind to go ahead with less than 2 minutes left in the game. Tech was driving when a pass was tipped into the air and floated right to a Texas back defender. It was one of those kind of floaters your grandmother could have caught. But he dropped it.
Tech scored and won. And the above scenario is the result.
We can understand the defensive back choking in the moment. We have all done it. We can forgive that and know his team mates have done so. We wish him well. But the consequences are still what they are.
Life's decisions, actions and mistakes have consequences. It's what all parents try to teach their children. It is also a huge spiritual lesson.
For while the grace of God and the gift of forgiveness is an unfathomable blessing to be claimed and celebrated, choices still have consequences. Forgiveness does not erase all consequences. Jesus still had the nail marks in his hands and the gash in his side for Thomas to see and feel. May we respond in 2009 as Thomas did centuries ago, "My Lord and my God!" - so there will be fewer nail marks and scars in our lives and in the world.
Friday, December 19, 2008
CULTURAL SHAPING
One other weight loss suggestion: stay out of Texas. Oh my, the barbecue and Mexican food! I gained three pounds in three days. I felt like one sitcom character who once complained about getting the "meat sweats."
But it got me thinking about culture and how culture shapes us - our habits, thoughts, preferences, actions, etc. Texas has a barbecue and Mexican food culture. It's everywhere. Hard to avoid and easy to like.
And it was nice to be back in a culture where this might happen. Here is a picture of our
silverware wrapping at a
Mexican Restaurant in Dallas.
Three prayers - each with a little different emphasis. Being from the Bay Area this was a refreshing change although I confess that I am not sure how much difference it really makes in people's commitments and lives.
Culture does have a power. The cultural attitude toward smoking has changed incredibly in my lifetime. Kids today might find it hard to believe that we suffered through smoke-filled offices and movie theaters. And had you asked me then if the culture's attitude toward smoking would ever change, I would have answered "no." But it did and to great effect.
This is why people engage in the so-called culture wars. The flow of the stream of culture has power and an impact on people. What person of "traditional values" (however that may be defined) doesn't regret the culture in which kids are being raised today.
But Christians must be careful not to put their faith in winning the culture wars or in doing so at the cost of what is supposed to be our witness of servanthood and love. First of all, it is my opinion that we will not win the culture wars - at least in any foreseeable future. Second, the way of power always corrupts - look at the history of "Christendom." And third, the church has often faced and often triumphed in times of being the minority.
In fact, maybe that is when the church is in the best position to shine. It is when we are at great odds with the culture that the difference can be seen. Too many polls indicate that up till now one can hardly tell the difference between a middle class American pagan and a middle class American Christian. (And probably the same for all economic classes.) The choice before us is to continue to acquiesce and comply OR begin to feel more and more alien and more and more part of an alternative kingdom - that of God.
Culture's power is not absolute. Not every Texan is overweight and, in spite of "California cuisine" and sushi, not every Californian is thin. We still choose our own path. And Christians have to choose their own path (in the Lord) in spite of whatever is going on around us.
But it got me thinking about culture and how culture shapes us - our habits, thoughts, preferences, actions, etc. Texas has a barbecue and Mexican food culture. It's everywhere. Hard to avoid and easy to like.
And it was nice to be back in a culture where this might happen. Here is a picture of our
silverware wrapping at a
Mexican Restaurant in Dallas.Three prayers - each with a little different emphasis. Being from the Bay Area this was a refreshing change although I confess that I am not sure how much difference it really makes in people's commitments and lives.
Culture does have a power. The cultural attitude toward smoking has changed incredibly in my lifetime. Kids today might find it hard to believe that we suffered through smoke-filled offices and movie theaters. And had you asked me then if the culture's attitude toward smoking would ever change, I would have answered "no." But it did and to great effect.
This is why people engage in the so-called culture wars. The flow of the stream of culture has power and an impact on people. What person of "traditional values" (however that may be defined) doesn't regret the culture in which kids are being raised today.
But Christians must be careful not to put their faith in winning the culture wars or in doing so at the cost of what is supposed to be our witness of servanthood and love. First of all, it is my opinion that we will not win the culture wars - at least in any foreseeable future. Second, the way of power always corrupts - look at the history of "Christendom." And third, the church has often faced and often triumphed in times of being the minority.
In fact, maybe that is when the church is in the best position to shine. It is when we are at great odds with the culture that the difference can be seen. Too many polls indicate that up till now one can hardly tell the difference between a middle class American pagan and a middle class American Christian. (And probably the same for all economic classes.) The choice before us is to continue to acquiesce and comply OR begin to feel more and more alien and more and more part of an alternative kingdom - that of God.
Culture's power is not absolute. Not every Texan is overweight and, in spite of "California cuisine" and sushi, not every Californian is thin. We still choose our own path. And Christians have to choose their own path (in the Lord) in spite of whatever is going on around us.
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
TEXAS TRIP
Our whirlwind trip to Texas was great. Bethany, Danny, Trisha, Kathy and I went to Grace's graduation from Abilene Christian University.
Kathy and I landed at DFW around noon on Thursday and had to pick up the others at Love Field at 5:00 pm. So we went to downtown Dallas to the JFK assassination scene and the 6th Floor Museum in what was the Texas School Book Depository from which Oswald shot the President. This is a historical site I had always wanted to visit.
It is said that everyone remembers where they were when it happened, and I do. I was in the 7th grade in November of 1963. It was a Friday - looking forward to the weekend. We had just finished lunch and rumors were flying. I went to science class and the PA system was broadcasting the radio news, including the announcement of Kennedy's death. I remember the girls crying hysterically.
This was at the height of the cold war, after the Cuban Missile crisis a year earlier. There was the immediate wondering if the Russians were involved. Then on Sunday just as were were getting out of church, Oswald was shot. Monday was the funeral. This series of events was the first life-changing national experience shared by live television - at least in my life - equaled only by 9/11 some 38 years later.
To stand at the sixth floor windows looking out on the scene brought back all those childhood memories and emotions. I always find it hard to believe that "this really happened right here." It is as if such historic events become mythical and transcend a concrete place. The emotions and meaning seem too large and significant to be contained in such a mundane, small space.
The grassy knoll is still there with an old wooden fence from behind which some swear a shot was fired. The corner from which Oswald fired is preserved as it appeared that day. The museum has artifacts and videos such as an original teletype printout of the news and Oswald's handcuffs.
From there we picked up the rest of the family and headed for Abilene where we did a 9:00 pm belated birthday celebration dinner for Kathy. Friday morning we tackled Grace's apartment to help her clean and arrange it plus buying furniture for her grad school time.
Then lunch at the shack that is Harold's BBQ. The line was out the door. Danny bought 7 bottles of sauce to share (some by request in California). More furniture shopping, assembling the do-it-yourself stuff, graduation rehearsal and then the real thing that evening. Grace and Kathy were the on the very end of a row which made pictures easy. (A parent "hoods" the graduate as part of the ceremony.)
I got to give a hug to one of my most significant grad school professors at the reception. Then to dinner at 10:00 pm at a typical Texas steakhouse. (Good thing we were on California time.)
Saturday was a late start. We finished up at Grace's and headed back to Dallas after a Mexican food lunch. (Sorry, Bill and Ann, we simply ran out of time!) Dinner with my Aunt and Uncle at a cousin's house. Jarrod Robinson and his wife and newborn were there. He is looking and doing very well after his extended medical crisis.
Sunday morning we met some of Bethany's Pepperdine friends at church and got to hear Randy Harris from ACU speak. It was a good worship time with a large church. (Like Campbell they had two screens and two Christmas trees.) A late lunch was more Mexican food.
Then off to the Cowboys' game - the next to last game at Texas Stadium. During the game a Texas blue-norther blew in. The temperature went from 75 to near freezing by the time we got home at mid-night. Kathy and Bethany screamed their lungs out as the Cowboys beat the Giants. We hung around after the game to get a picture of the two of them at the Tom Landry statue. Even Bay-Area Danny is sort of a Cowboy fan. Or at least he lets Bethany think that.
Monday we took 3 different flights on two different airlines from two different airports and to two different airports - and all arrived home safely. Grace is home for the break and will return to grad school at ACU in January. A good time was had by all!
Kathy and I landed at DFW around noon on Thursday and had to pick up the others at Love Field at 5:00 pm. So we went to downtown Dallas to the JFK assassination scene and the 6th Floor Museum in what was the Texas School Book Depository from which Oswald shot the President. This is a historical site I had always wanted to visit.
It is said that everyone remembers where they were when it happened, and I do. I was in the 7th grade in November of 1963. It was a Friday - looking forward to the weekend. We had just finished lunch and rumors were flying. I went to science class and the PA system was broadcasting the radio news, including the announcement of Kennedy's death. I remember the girls crying hysterically.
This was at the height of the cold war, after the Cuban Missile crisis a year earlier. There was the immediate wondering if the Russians were involved. Then on Sunday just as were were getting out of church, Oswald was shot. Monday was the funeral. This series of events was the first life-changing national experience shared by live television - at least in my life - equaled only by 9/11 some 38 years later.
To stand at the sixth floor windows looking out on the scene brought back all those childhood memories and emotions. I always find it hard to believe that "this really happened right here." It is as if such historic events become mythical and transcend a concrete place. The emotions and meaning seem too large and significant to be contained in such a mundane, small space.
The grassy knoll is still there with an old wooden fence from behind which some swear a shot was fired. The corner from which Oswald fired is preserved as it appeared that day. The museum has artifacts and videos such as an original teletype printout of the news and Oswald's handcuffs.
From there we picked up the rest of the family and headed for Abilene where we did a 9:00 pm belated birthday celebration dinner for Kathy. Friday morning we tackled Grace's apartment to help her clean and arrange it plus buying furniture for her grad school time.
Then lunch at the shack that is Harold's BBQ. The line was out the door. Danny bought 7 bottles of sauce to share (some by request in California). More furniture shopping, assembling the do-it-yourself stuff, graduation rehearsal and then the real thing that evening. Grace and Kathy were the on the very end of a row which made pictures easy. (A parent "hoods" the graduate as part of the ceremony.)
I got to give a hug to one of my most significant grad school professors at the reception. Then to dinner at 10:00 pm at a typical Texas steakhouse. (Good thing we were on California time.)
Saturday was a late start. We finished up at Grace's and headed back to Dallas after a Mexican food lunch. (Sorry, Bill and Ann, we simply ran out of time!) Dinner with my Aunt and Uncle at a cousin's house. Jarrod Robinson and his wife and newborn were there. He is looking and doing very well after his extended medical crisis.
Sunday morning we met some of Bethany's Pepperdine friends at church and got to hear Randy Harris from ACU speak. It was a good worship time with a large church. (Like Campbell they had two screens and two Christmas trees.) A late lunch was more Mexican food.
Then off to the Cowboys' game - the next to last game at Texas Stadium. During the game a Texas blue-norther blew in. The temperature went from 75 to near freezing by the time we got home at mid-night. Kathy and Bethany screamed their lungs out as the Cowboys beat the Giants. We hung around after the game to get a picture of the two of them at the Tom Landry statue. Even Bay-Area Danny is sort of a Cowboy fan. Or at least he lets Bethany think that.
Monday we took 3 different flights on two different airlines from two different airports and to two different airports - and all arrived home safely. Grace is home for the break and will return to grad school at ACU in January. A good time was had by all!
Monday, December 08, 2008
THE SECRET TO WEIGHT LOSS
Ah hah! Got ya! There is no secret to weight loss.
Being quite visible in the church family here, I have been asked by many how I lost weight. Some are curious; others are looking for help to do the same. So I decided to tell my story. Take what works for you.
I am currently down 36 pounds from where I was on May 11. I lost 15 pounds early on Sabbatical, maintained the loss, that is, I broke even, on the long road trip (which is a victory), and lost 21 pounds since coming back to work August 4.
There is no secret, but there is one basic fact of weight loss. Burn more calories than you consume. Attack the problem from both sides of the equation.
I did not use a "diet" but chose changes that I can maintain. Most people gain back weight they lose. The only way to succeed is to make sustainable changes. So I chose to go slow and make changes I can live with.
I started exercising. Like many, my job is sedentary. I sit in a chair. In fact, when I am researching and writing sermons, email and other tasks on my computer, I move so little that my motion-sensor operated office lights go off all the time.
I started using a treadmill doing a fast walk, not running. To get a fast start to losing I did a mile and a half in the morning (30 minutes) and mile or mile and a half in the evening. Now I do the morning only but have bumped it up to two miles (40 minutes). My absolute minimum is to do this 5 days a week, but I usually do 6 and sometimes 7 days. If you miss a day, that is ok. Try hard not to miss two in a row.
Besides making the time to do this, the other challenge is boredom. I listen to music on headphones and work on my sermon in my head. Some people read or watch a show. Or you could use the time to explore your memory. The trick is to keep your mind busy.
I also started walking to work. I am the fortunate rare one who lives close enough to work to do this. In fact, I walk home for lunch so I do two round trips a day. I walk on Sunday, too. Some weeks my car doesn't leave the garage. Few people can do that, but try to add walking where you can. I have seen school staff here walking on their lunch break.
Park further away from work or shopping. It is amazing that people will pay to go to a gym, then circle a parking lot looking for a close-in spot. Why not pick the furthest corner of the lot and add a hundred steps? The small stuff adds up either in weight gain or loss.
The walking also has a non-weight benefit. It is so refreshing to be outside and quietly walk really seeing trees, flowers and birds, etc. One doesn't have to go out of the city to enjoy the outdoors, sunlight and nature. Walking to work on a cool, foggy morning this fall is great. I miss the fall trees of my childhood back east, but there are some great colors now in my neighborhood. Walk when you can.
And now the food. Three basic changes. Eat less at meal time. Cut out the worst snacks. Cut way back on eating out - especially fast food lunches.
Know what you are eating. Read the labels for the calorie information. Go online and look up the fast food nutrition info (sometimes you have to hunt for it). I was shocked at the truth. You don't have to give up everything, but choose the lesser of two evils.
Examples:
At Del Taco I used to get the combo of two tacos, a quesadilla and Mr. Pibb. With a large drink that is 1,234 calories! While I seldom go to Del Taco anymore, sometimes I want tacos. I now get two tacos and a diet drink. That is 320 calories. A difference of 914 calories! That's a difference you can see. (By the way, I always hated diet drinks and still can't drink them alone. But with tacos it's ok.)
At Jack-in-the-Box the ultimate cheeseburger alone is 1,010 calories! Medium french fries adds 450 calories and large adds 640 calories. Throw in a soda or shake and you have consumed what should be total for the whole day!
On the other hand the Asian chicken salad is 160 calories with the grilled chicken. If you get "crispy," meaning fried, it jumps to 330. If you add the dressing, that is another 190 calories. So the difference between grilled without dressing vs. crispy with dressing is 360 calories. Over and over again the question you face is "Is it worth it?" Sometimes the answer is yes, but often it can be no.
The point is not to deny everything you like, but to be a knowledgeable consumer and make informed decisions. The other day Kathy and I both wanted an In-and-Out burger. But instead of each ordering a double cheeseburger and fries we each ordered a single cheeseburger and split one order of fries.
The same goes for snacks. Read the labels and decide what is worth it and what isn't. Don't bring it into the house if you don't really want to eat it. Again, it isn't a matter of total denial, but of choices. A single serving bag of low fat popcorn and a diet soda goes great with a Sharks game, but is a lot less damaging than a whole bag of "movie butter" popcorn with a regular soda. Huge difference. Eat ice cream - just take half of the serving you used to take.
Meals: instead of eating out for lunch I walk home and eat a microwaveable low calorie lunch: Lean Cuisine, Healthy Choice, Weight Watchers, Cafe Steamers. They run around 250 - 330 calories and I find them quite good.
For dinner I simply eat less and avoid the worst stuff. For some reason the stomach is slow letting the brain know it is full. Eat a reasonable serving and then when you would usually go for another helping of something, give the brain time to figure out you are full enough. If you can just hold off five minutes, the desire for seconds usually wanes. When I seem to be especially hungry I go for more lean meat instead of potatoes and bread.
Yes, it takes some discipline. At Breakfast with Santa I ate the scrambled eggs, but declined the sausage and pancakes. I pretty much avoid Peggy's candy dish and eat saltine crackers for a snack.
The other thing I did was use an accurate digital scale that measures every .2 pounds. Nothing is more encouraging than dropping even 4 tenths of a pound. And if you slack up a little and gain some then make sure you hold the line and move back down. I gained 2 pounds Thanksgiving weekend. Ate some good stuff! But by the end the following week it was gone. I enjoyed Thanksgiving without totally overdoing it and was still even par a week later. I'm good with that!
There is a mind element to this that is important. You have to teach yourself, convince yourself, that you really don't want fried food. Think about the greasy aftertaste. Eat a cold french fry. Look at a day old doughnut and realize, "It's not worth it." If you get on board, you will also find that good food (good-for-you food) is actually good. It is nice to eat dinner when you are pretty hungry. It is satisfying.
So I guess that is the last point. Food can become something other than a satisfaction for nutrition hunger. We talk of "comfort food." Be sure food isn't an opiate for being down, or for things that are wrong in life that have nothing to do with food. Deal with those matters on their own.
That's it - that's what I did. Probably more than you wanted to know.
Being quite visible in the church family here, I have been asked by many how I lost weight. Some are curious; others are looking for help to do the same. So I decided to tell my story. Take what works for you.
I am currently down 36 pounds from where I was on May 11. I lost 15 pounds early on Sabbatical, maintained the loss, that is, I broke even, on the long road trip (which is a victory), and lost 21 pounds since coming back to work August 4.
There is no secret, but there is one basic fact of weight loss. Burn more calories than you consume. Attack the problem from both sides of the equation.
I did not use a "diet" but chose changes that I can maintain. Most people gain back weight they lose. The only way to succeed is to make sustainable changes. So I chose to go slow and make changes I can live with.
I started exercising. Like many, my job is sedentary. I sit in a chair. In fact, when I am researching and writing sermons, email and other tasks on my computer, I move so little that my motion-sensor operated office lights go off all the time.
I started using a treadmill doing a fast walk, not running. To get a fast start to losing I did a mile and a half in the morning (30 minutes) and mile or mile and a half in the evening. Now I do the morning only but have bumped it up to two miles (40 minutes). My absolute minimum is to do this 5 days a week, but I usually do 6 and sometimes 7 days. If you miss a day, that is ok. Try hard not to miss two in a row.
Besides making the time to do this, the other challenge is boredom. I listen to music on headphones and work on my sermon in my head. Some people read or watch a show. Or you could use the time to explore your memory. The trick is to keep your mind busy.
I also started walking to work. I am the fortunate rare one who lives close enough to work to do this. In fact, I walk home for lunch so I do two round trips a day. I walk on Sunday, too. Some weeks my car doesn't leave the garage. Few people can do that, but try to add walking where you can. I have seen school staff here walking on their lunch break.
Park further away from work or shopping. It is amazing that people will pay to go to a gym, then circle a parking lot looking for a close-in spot. Why not pick the furthest corner of the lot and add a hundred steps? The small stuff adds up either in weight gain or loss.
The walking also has a non-weight benefit. It is so refreshing to be outside and quietly walk really seeing trees, flowers and birds, etc. One doesn't have to go out of the city to enjoy the outdoors, sunlight and nature. Walking to work on a cool, foggy morning this fall is great. I miss the fall trees of my childhood back east, but there are some great colors now in my neighborhood. Walk when you can.
And now the food. Three basic changes. Eat less at meal time. Cut out the worst snacks. Cut way back on eating out - especially fast food lunches.
Know what you are eating. Read the labels for the calorie information. Go online and look up the fast food nutrition info (sometimes you have to hunt for it). I was shocked at the truth. You don't have to give up everything, but choose the lesser of two evils.
Examples:
At Del Taco I used to get the combo of two tacos, a quesadilla and Mr. Pibb. With a large drink that is 1,234 calories! While I seldom go to Del Taco anymore, sometimes I want tacos. I now get two tacos and a diet drink. That is 320 calories. A difference of 914 calories! That's a difference you can see. (By the way, I always hated diet drinks and still can't drink them alone. But with tacos it's ok.)
At Jack-in-the-Box the ultimate cheeseburger alone is 1,010 calories! Medium french fries adds 450 calories and large adds 640 calories. Throw in a soda or shake and you have consumed what should be total for the whole day!
On the other hand the Asian chicken salad is 160 calories with the grilled chicken. If you get "crispy," meaning fried, it jumps to 330. If you add the dressing, that is another 190 calories. So the difference between grilled without dressing vs. crispy with dressing is 360 calories. Over and over again the question you face is "Is it worth it?" Sometimes the answer is yes, but often it can be no.
The point is not to deny everything you like, but to be a knowledgeable consumer and make informed decisions. The other day Kathy and I both wanted an In-and-Out burger. But instead of each ordering a double cheeseburger and fries we each ordered a single cheeseburger and split one order of fries.
The same goes for snacks. Read the labels and decide what is worth it and what isn't. Don't bring it into the house if you don't really want to eat it. Again, it isn't a matter of total denial, but of choices. A single serving bag of low fat popcorn and a diet soda goes great with a Sharks game, but is a lot less damaging than a whole bag of "movie butter" popcorn with a regular soda. Huge difference. Eat ice cream - just take half of the serving you used to take.
Meals: instead of eating out for lunch I walk home and eat a microwaveable low calorie lunch: Lean Cuisine, Healthy Choice, Weight Watchers, Cafe Steamers. They run around 250 - 330 calories and I find them quite good.
For dinner I simply eat less and avoid the worst stuff. For some reason the stomach is slow letting the brain know it is full. Eat a reasonable serving and then when you would usually go for another helping of something, give the brain time to figure out you are full enough. If you can just hold off five minutes, the desire for seconds usually wanes. When I seem to be especially hungry I go for more lean meat instead of potatoes and bread.
Yes, it takes some discipline. At Breakfast with Santa I ate the scrambled eggs, but declined the sausage and pancakes. I pretty much avoid Peggy's candy dish and eat saltine crackers for a snack.
The other thing I did was use an accurate digital scale that measures every .2 pounds. Nothing is more encouraging than dropping even 4 tenths of a pound. And if you slack up a little and gain some then make sure you hold the line and move back down. I gained 2 pounds Thanksgiving weekend. Ate some good stuff! But by the end the following week it was gone. I enjoyed Thanksgiving without totally overdoing it and was still even par a week later. I'm good with that!
There is a mind element to this that is important. You have to teach yourself, convince yourself, that you really don't want fried food. Think about the greasy aftertaste. Eat a cold french fry. Look at a day old doughnut and realize, "It's not worth it." If you get on board, you will also find that good food (good-for-you food) is actually good. It is nice to eat dinner when you are pretty hungry. It is satisfying.
So I guess that is the last point. Food can become something other than a satisfaction for nutrition hunger. We talk of "comfort food." Be sure food isn't an opiate for being down, or for things that are wrong in life that have nothing to do with food. Deal with those matters on their own.
That's it - that's what I did. Probably more than you wanted to know.
SANTA'S APPRENTICE
I heard some people not in the auditorium at sermon time yesterday wanted to see this picture from Breakfast with Santa. (click image to enlarge)
Wednesday, December 03, 2008
GENETIC DETERMINISM
Popeye the sailor man said "I am what I am." The more we learn about genetics the more we seem to be "hard-wired. The social/psychological/philosophical impact of the biological sciences is to conclude that who we are is basically determined by nature. This determinism has significant, disturbing implications about human freedom, responsibility and ability to change.
So I was intrigued by a current Newsweek article (December 1, 2008) titled When DNA Is Not Destiny. Sharon Begley cites studies and argues that experiences and what we believe actually make a difference. Some quotes:
- "...growing recognition that experiences can silence genes or activate them..."
- "...the influence of genes wanes with age: in middle and later adulthood, environment plays a larger role than genetics in shaping personality, a hint of the power of accumulated experiences."
- "More and more research is suggesting that, far from simply being encoded in the genes, much of personality is a flexible and dynamic thing that changes over the life span and is shaped by experience." - Carol Dweck of Stanford University
- about introversion: "a 'genetically shy' child whose parents gently encourage her to get herself into the sandbox and mix it up with other kids is more likely to outgrow her shyness by age 12 than a shy child whose parents take her trait as a given."
- "In a rat, being licked and groomed by its mother turns off brain genes linked to fear of the unknown and neuroticism. DNA is not an inert set of blueprints; it responds to life experiences."
- "Whether you believe that your core traits, such as intelligence, are fixed, or are things you can develop, matters a great deal." Dweck. (In a study, junior high students who were taught that intelligence is malleable and that the brain grows in response to intellectual challenge became significantly more conscientious and diligent in their studies. "Beliefs about yourself play a causal role" in life choices. "Beliefs can be changed and when they are so is personality."
This should be good news to parents and a hopeful challenge to teachers!
It also counters biological determinism and reinforces the Christian truth that we can be changed and what we believe makes a difference. (Not to mention the indefinable role of God's Holy Spirit working within us and on us.)
Consider these words from 2 Peter:
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world cause by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
We can actually realize this! Peter goes on to speak of possessing these qualities in "increasing measure!" We can actually do that.
Knowledge matters. What you believe matters. Participating in the divine nature matters. Effort matters. Good news! DNA is not destiny!
So I was intrigued by a current Newsweek article (December 1, 2008) titled When DNA Is Not Destiny. Sharon Begley cites studies and argues that experiences and what we believe actually make a difference. Some quotes:
- "...growing recognition that experiences can silence genes or activate them..."
- "...the influence of genes wanes with age: in middle and later adulthood, environment plays a larger role than genetics in shaping personality, a hint of the power of accumulated experiences."
- "More and more research is suggesting that, far from simply being encoded in the genes, much of personality is a flexible and dynamic thing that changes over the life span and is shaped by experience." - Carol Dweck of Stanford University
- about introversion: "a 'genetically shy' child whose parents gently encourage her to get herself into the sandbox and mix it up with other kids is more likely to outgrow her shyness by age 12 than a shy child whose parents take her trait as a given."
- "In a rat, being licked and groomed by its mother turns off brain genes linked to fear of the unknown and neuroticism. DNA is not an inert set of blueprints; it responds to life experiences."
- "Whether you believe that your core traits, such as intelligence, are fixed, or are things you can develop, matters a great deal." Dweck. (In a study, junior high students who were taught that intelligence is malleable and that the brain grows in response to intellectual challenge became significantly more conscientious and diligent in their studies. "Beliefs about yourself play a causal role" in life choices. "Beliefs can be changed and when they are so is personality."
This should be good news to parents and a hopeful challenge to teachers!
It also counters biological determinism and reinforces the Christian truth that we can be changed and what we believe makes a difference. (Not to mention the indefinable role of God's Holy Spirit working within us and on us.)
Consider these words from 2 Peter:
His divine power has given us everything we need for life and godliness through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world cause by evil desires.
For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love.
We can actually realize this! Peter goes on to speak of possessing these qualities in "increasing measure!" We can actually do that.
Knowledge matters. What you believe matters. Participating in the divine nature matters. Effort matters. Good news! DNA is not destiny!
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
FORGIVENESS
The sermon series on Forgiveness generated more response and conversations than any other in memory. Every person deals with the need to be forgiven and to forgive others. It is one of the most significant quality of life issues (practically speaking) and at the heart of the spiritual life.
Because of the interest I wanted to give information on three books I read for the series.
*Forgive for Good, by Dr. Fred Luskin gives good analysis of the problem of grudges and grievance stories. It describes the need for forgiveness in our lives. However, it is non-Christian in orientation and gives psychological solutions to the problem. These may work at times and do some good, but they are not spiritually empowered.
*Two Christian perspectives are The Art of Forgiving by Lewis Smedes and The New Freedom of Forgiveness by David Augsburger. There is a lot of good material in these books and I am indebted to them as resources for the series, but neither one was a home run.
But since the sermons could only lay out basic principles and every person and situation in which forgiveness is an issue has some unique aspects, reading the books would allow a slower digesting of the whole topic and working through applications on your own.
Because of the interest I wanted to give information on three books I read for the series.
*Forgive for Good, by Dr. Fred Luskin gives good analysis of the problem of grudges and grievance stories. It describes the need for forgiveness in our lives. However, it is non-Christian in orientation and gives psychological solutions to the problem. These may work at times and do some good, but they are not spiritually empowered.
*Two Christian perspectives are The Art of Forgiving by Lewis Smedes and The New Freedom of Forgiveness by David Augsburger. There is a lot of good material in these books and I am indebted to them as resources for the series, but neither one was a home run.
But since the sermons could only lay out basic principles and every person and situation in which forgiveness is an issue has some unique aspects, reading the books would allow a slower digesting of the whole topic and working through applications on your own.
Friday, November 14, 2008
RANDOM RUMINATIONS
1. I see that Sears is bringing back the layaway plan. I vaguely remember putting things on layaway several decades ago, but it hadn't hit me that layaway was not even an option anymore. Not only is this retro move a manifestation of the new economic reality, but it made me realize how much I had shifted to the credit card mentality. Let's hope the layaway plan is part of a broader shift away from immediate gratification to sensible and patient spending.
2. After a homecoming event at my college I received a memorial email listing the deceased from our graduating class. I was shocked that 60 from my graduating class of the year 1973 are already dead. That may be within the statistical norm, but it sure surprised me. And not in a good way.
3. Barack Obama's election is having, and I hope will continue to have, tremendous impact on race and identity in our country. I hope that anglo-Americans are hearing and reading the meaning this election has not just for African-Americans, but all minorities.
I heard of one elderly black lady who said something to the effect that she had always been an American and felt like an American, but now felt like she could unpack her suitcase. And a Sikh, who suffered stares and threats after 9-11 because of his ethnicity and wearing a turban, shared how the election of Obama brings him a personal sense of hope and belonging. One black columnist expressed the hope that Obama's election would undercut the gangsta rap ghetto mentality.
Whether one voted for McCain or Obama and whatever concerns one may have about the election, let us hope and pray that a major positive result will be healing in the American racial divide and within the black, inner city victim mentality which, while understandable, is so destructive.
4. The morning paper continues to bring news of anger and opposition to the outcome on Proposition 8. A very troubling aspect of this is the public listing of individual donors to Yes on 8. (i.e. www.antigayblacklist.com). It is one thing to boycott corporations or unload their stock, but post-election retribution on individuals has serious implications for democracy. At least this sheds light on where the real intolerance lies. The politics of hatred (on any side) is detrimental to all.
2. After a homecoming event at my college I received a memorial email listing the deceased from our graduating class. I was shocked that 60 from my graduating class of the year 1973 are already dead. That may be within the statistical norm, but it sure surprised me. And not in a good way.
3. Barack Obama's election is having, and I hope will continue to have, tremendous impact on race and identity in our country. I hope that anglo-Americans are hearing and reading the meaning this election has not just for African-Americans, but all minorities.
I heard of one elderly black lady who said something to the effect that she had always been an American and felt like an American, but now felt like she could unpack her suitcase. And a Sikh, who suffered stares and threats after 9-11 because of his ethnicity and wearing a turban, shared how the election of Obama brings him a personal sense of hope and belonging. One black columnist expressed the hope that Obama's election would undercut the gangsta rap ghetto mentality.
Whether one voted for McCain or Obama and whatever concerns one may have about the election, let us hope and pray that a major positive result will be healing in the American racial divide and within the black, inner city victim mentality which, while understandable, is so destructive.
4. The morning paper continues to bring news of anger and opposition to the outcome on Proposition 8. A very troubling aspect of this is the public listing of individual donors to Yes on 8. (i.e. www.antigayblacklist.com). It is one thing to boycott corporations or unload their stock, but post-election retribution on individuals has serious implications for democracy. At least this sheds light on where the real intolerance lies. The politics of hatred (on any side) is detrimental to all.
Thursday, October 30, 2008
BAPTISM AND LORD'S SUPPER - 4
While Campbell came to what I believe is a more biblical understanding and practice of baptism, it is not without its potential problems.
Samuel Rogers looked back on the shift from the mourner's bench to baptism and lamented, "We long since abolished them, and we did right in so doing; but I almost fear that we did it in such a way as to abolish the mourners too." If there is a problem with subjectivity in the mourner's bench, there is a problem with objectivity in baptism.
It is so easy for an external action to become divorced from the heart and repentance. On the one hand baptism may come to be viewed almost magically as if simply doing the deed has effect. On the other hand baptism can be viewed as an action or deed that one does in order to assure the self of salvation - as if to say "I did what it said to do." Thus the charges of "water salvation" "salvation by works" and the like.
Campbell wrestled with how to understand baptism's significance. In a debate he said "I know it will be said that I have affirmed that baptism 'saves us,' that it 'washes away sins.' Well, Peter and Paul have said so before me."
But he also knew that clearly the NT emphasizes the elements of a changed heart and will in coming to salvation. Faith (trust) and repentance are at the core of coming to the cross for salvation in the sacrifice of Christ. How does the external ritual fit in?
His conclusion included a concept of a "formal" remission of sins. "The water of baptism, then, formally washes away our sins. The blood of Christ really washes away our sins." Later, in 1851, he wrote, "The influence which baptism may have upon our spiritual relations is, therefore, not because of any merit in the act as our own; not as a procuring cause, but merely as an instrumental and concurring cause, by which we 'put on Christ,' and are united to him formally, as well as in heart." This may not be all that helpful but it shows Campbell's struggle with trying to understand the internal and external aspects of conversion.
The question of baptism and salvation/fellowship has always been problematic. In 1832 a reader of Campbell's paper wrote to ask about this very issue. His reply as to who was a Christian was "Everyone that believes in his heart that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah, the Son of God; repents of his sins, and obeys him in all things according to his measure of knowledge of his will." This reply allowed for the "measure" of an individual's understanding about baptism.
But over time many came to believe that one must be baptized with a full understanding of the meaning of baptism, not simply in response to the biblical call to be baptized. So a controversy arose over the need to "rebaptize" Baptists who had been immersed in a Baptist church. Campbell adamantly opposed this view, but it came to be quite predominant and is still the conviction of many today.
It is interesting that this need to fully understand baptism usually centered only on the phrase "for the remission of sins" but excluded "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Such are the twists and turns of history in which one issue becomes primary while another is less so.
Samuel Rogers looked back on the shift from the mourner's bench to baptism and lamented, "We long since abolished them, and we did right in so doing; but I almost fear that we did it in such a way as to abolish the mourners too." If there is a problem with subjectivity in the mourner's bench, there is a problem with objectivity in baptism.
It is so easy for an external action to become divorced from the heart and repentance. On the one hand baptism may come to be viewed almost magically as if simply doing the deed has effect. On the other hand baptism can be viewed as an action or deed that one does in order to assure the self of salvation - as if to say "I did what it said to do." Thus the charges of "water salvation" "salvation by works" and the like.
Campbell wrestled with how to understand baptism's significance. In a debate he said "I know it will be said that I have affirmed that baptism 'saves us,' that it 'washes away sins.' Well, Peter and Paul have said so before me."
But he also knew that clearly the NT emphasizes the elements of a changed heart and will in coming to salvation. Faith (trust) and repentance are at the core of coming to the cross for salvation in the sacrifice of Christ. How does the external ritual fit in?
His conclusion included a concept of a "formal" remission of sins. "The water of baptism, then, formally washes away our sins. The blood of Christ really washes away our sins." Later, in 1851, he wrote, "The influence which baptism may have upon our spiritual relations is, therefore, not because of any merit in the act as our own; not as a procuring cause, but merely as an instrumental and concurring cause, by which we 'put on Christ,' and are united to him formally, as well as in heart." This may not be all that helpful but it shows Campbell's struggle with trying to understand the internal and external aspects of conversion.
The question of baptism and salvation/fellowship has always been problematic. In 1832 a reader of Campbell's paper wrote to ask about this very issue. His reply as to who was a Christian was "Everyone that believes in his heart that Jesus of Nazareth is the Messiah, the Son of God; repents of his sins, and obeys him in all things according to his measure of knowledge of his will." This reply allowed for the "measure" of an individual's understanding about baptism.
But over time many came to believe that one must be baptized with a full understanding of the meaning of baptism, not simply in response to the biblical call to be baptized. So a controversy arose over the need to "rebaptize" Baptists who had been immersed in a Baptist church. Campbell adamantly opposed this view, but it came to be quite predominant and is still the conviction of many today.
It is interesting that this need to fully understand baptism usually centered only on the phrase "for the remission of sins" but excluded "receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." Such are the twists and turns of history in which one issue becomes primary while another is less so.
