The Adornment Apostacy

    The needles on the great white pine's needles glisten in the hint of sun from the recent coating that was left by the freezing rain. There is still a haze in the air from the left over mist of precipitation. This adornment is a beauty to me. Pure and natural just as it is supposed to be. Today is the day that Heidi and the girls spend decorating the house and the tree. Of course they think that I am like Scrooge or the Grinch as I tend to think the house looks fine just as it is. It takes some time as I let the colors of Christmas make their subtle change in my spirit. By the time Christmas day comes I do not want the decorations to come down.

   My thoughts and questions come from my recent post about Black Friday. I realize that much of our desire to decorate stems from the need for nostalgia. However, should my faith in Christ be triggered by such decor? Should the birth of Christ be more important to me than the salvation that is found in Him? How many of us are caught up in the adornment process and then forget the preparation and dressing of our hearts. By no means do I want to kill tradition, but rather I want for us to have a deeper desire for the things of God instead of man.

   It would seem that what was pagan has returned to it's original roots. So then how does the believer stand against the ways of the world in a time that is filled with Santa, elves, reindeer and presents? My first inclination would be to completely dismiss all of the excess and keep my celebration small. But then maybe then it is not in what we look like but in what we do. If we as Christians really want to be His followers then maybe we are to get past the personal adornment and instead give attention to personal reflection and servitude. After all wouldn't the greatest gift would be to adorn others with the Joy of Jesus Christ this Christmas? I pray you join me and you too can see the glisten of the beauty all around us.

Contemplating Christmas

Recently I joked on a facebook post that I had made it through Black Friday Shopping successfully. I made it into town and bought a 24oz coffee for the 23oz price. Thus my Black Friday shopping is now complete. Today is the 1st of December and I sit here in contemplation on Christmas. Each and every year we hear new stories of excited crowds full of zeal anticipating the deal that they are seeking. Each year, the pictures get worse, the stores open earlier and earlier, and the deals become more ridiculous. . . . My thought however is what if we had the zeal and excitement of Black Friday in the Church for Christmas? What if people were waiting at the doors on Sunday morning expecting God's truth to be shared? What if people knew that every time that they came to church, God was going to give to them a special blessing that would change their lives forever? What if the people that came were so excited about the opportunities and changes God gave them that they could not help but want to share the exciting news with their friends and neighbors? Those are a lot of "what ifs", but with Christ it still is possible, Be Blessed and be a Blessing!

Coffee with Mums

Great fall day to have coffee with the Mums.

Protect the Internet!

Voyageurs

A new adventure is looming. At this point I have ventured farther into the wilderness than I have ever done before. In some ways if I went much farther north I would fall off of the map. I think of the early voyageurs that came through this wilderness with only their canoes and their wits. Then, they sought wealth and opportunity. Today this new voyageur casts off to make connection, community and commitment. My prayer is be genuine and honest, giving of myself as my master gave Himself. I look forward to the journey. May it be blessed and may I be a blessing.

Kina and her Cat Pocket

At a table near you

HMMMM!

Been kinda busy so there have no been much for posting as of late. BUT I have a few Ideas coming.

Blessings.

Ant

An Excellent Wife Who Can Find?

Proverbs 31:10-31 (ESV) 10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life……………………………………………….… 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.

     I post this the day after Mother's Day. Sharing with everyone the importance of Women and Motherhood.

Did you get your Mother’s day presents? I hope you did. Did you hear about the three sons that all got their elderly mother a present?
                A Woman had three sons that we very competitive. They all left home, went out on their own and prospered. Getting back together, they discussed the gifts they were able to give their elderly mother.
The first said, "I built a big house for our mother."
The second said," I sent her a Mercedes with a driver."
                The third smiled and said, "I've got you, both beat. You know how Mom enjoys the Bible, and you know she can't see very well. I sent her a brown parrot that can recite the entire Bible. It took 20 monks in a monastery 12 years to teach him. I had to pledge to contribute $100,000.00 a year for 10 years, but it was worth it. Mom just has to name the chapter and verse, and the parrot will recite it."
                Soon thereafter, Mom sent out her letters of thanks: "Milton," she wrote the first son, "The house you built is so huge. I live in only one room, but I have to clean the whole house."
"Marvin," she wrote to another, "I am too old to travel. I stay home all the time, so I never use the Mercedes. And the driver is so rude!"
"Dearest Melvin," she wrote to her third son, "You were the only son to have the good sense to know what your mother likes. That chicken was delicious."
                We believe that our Moms are Wonder Woman. Like she has super powers or something, and we want to do right by our mothers do we not? We want our mothers to be proud of us. And they deserve our attention because they are so precious, they are to be praised, but we know as well the most important thing that should be recognized and praised it that if they are a woman who fears God.
Women are Precious, Women should be praised, and Women should FEAR God!
                I am sure that you have heard many, many sermons on Mothers and Mother’s Day. This is a special day and according to Hallmark, we are celebrating the 100th Mother’s Day. Their website went on to say……….
                In the United States, Anna M. Jarvis, born in 1864 in Webster, Va., is credited as the force behind Mother’s Day. When Jarvis was 41 years old, her mother died. On the second anniversary of her mother’s death (the second Sunday in May 1908), Jarvis made public her plans to establish a day to honor mothers.
………… The observance became official in 1914 when Woodrow Wilson signed a proclamation naming the second Sunday of May as a day for “public expression of our love and reverence for the mothers of our country.” – Hallmark Website.

    The irony is that when consumerism snuck into the holiday, Jarvis devoted the rest of her life to return it to a day of reverence.

                The idea of celebrating mothers and motherhood is not limited to the last 100 years or the USA.

     In much of the Arab world, Mother's Day is on March 21, which happens to loosely coincide with the start of spring. In Panama the day is celebrated on December 8, when the Catholic Church honors perhaps the most famous of mothers, the Virgin Mary. In Thailand mothers are honored on August 12, the birthday of Queen Sirikit, who has reigned since 1956 and is considered by many to be a mother to all Thais.
                There also was a Great Britain's centuries-old Mothering Sunday, the fourth Sunday of the Christian period of Lent, began as a spring Sunday designated for people to visit their area's main cathedral, or mother church, rather than their local parish. Mothering Sunday church travel led to family reunions, which in turn led to Britain's version of Mother's Day. – Wikipedia

                First two points of what God has commanded of men and children. That last point is that of what God requires of women.

Women Are Precious!
10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life.
                The fact that we celebrate, spend what we do, and make a big deal out of Mother’s Day certainly implies that our Mother’s and Women are precious.  Do you agree? Mothers are precious to us, are they not? Why else are there all of the “Hi Mom!” Photo bombs on the morning television news shows all the time. Why else would Jesus remind the rich young ruler of the commandments……Luke 18:20 (ESV) 20 You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery, Do not murder, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother.’”

                Of course our mothers are important why else would entrust His earthly mother Mary to John…John 19:26-27 (ESV) 26 When Jesus saw his mother and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, “Woman, behold, your son!” 27 Then he said to the disciple, “Behold, your mother!” And from that hour the disciple took her to his own home.

               Today’s familiar scripture from the Wisdom of Solomon share with us the importance of the role of a good woman and mother. All so often women look at these scriptures and are overwhelmed by the requirements.
·         For instance…have any of you looked for wool or flax lately?
·         Have you spun any wool or flax?
·         Did you bring food from a far?
·         Get up really early to get food on for the day?
·         Have you bought a field lately? Why not?
·         And the list goes on……
                You know that you are to listen to you mother….after all she is a wealth of wisdom and master of multitasking.

                I think the key here is that look how the Proverbs 31 woman puts the needs of other above herself, and yet she does not forget to look good for her husband. I do not think that is wisdom just for women but for all of us. Those whom are precious to God think about more about others than about themselves.
Women are precious and Women are to be praised…………

Women Are to Be Praised!
28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”

                Turn your attention now to verse 28 of Proverbs 31. Let see how the woman’s children AND husband feel about her. They actually get EXCITED. They RISE UP! They call her BLESSED! This is a great compliment. She is blessed, she is a blessing, and all praise is due to her. Wow! Listen to the compliment that her husband gives her. 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.”
                Men, when was the last time that you gave your wife that kind of compliment? Kids, when was the last time that you ROSE up and blessed your mother. You would not be here today if it were not for your mother. Mother’s are meant to be praised. After all look at the wisdom they have shared to get you to where you are….

Women are precious, they are to be praised and they are to make God their first and foremost priority.

Women Are to Have a Godly Priority!
30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates.

                I think that here the writer is saving the best for last. He gives us a wealth of characteristics and follows with this wisdom. Her faith and her works will speak for themselves. But of all the things it boils down to her faith. It matters most that she has a healthy fear of the Lord.
                You see, she could be the prettiest, the best business person, the best crafts person, the best cook and housekeeper, but none of those things are important IF she does not have faith in God.  The writer expresses adamantly 30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.
                We have seen in the scriptures today that: Women are Precious, Women should be praised, and Women should FEAR God! Certainly the first two points of what God has commanded of men and children. That last point is that of what God requires of women.
Men, Children, what are you doing to celebrate you wife and mother? Women, where is your relationship with Jesus Christ? Do you know Him as Lord and Savior? Have you given your life to Him? Have you put your complete trust in Him?

Sometimes it Rains

                Sometimes it rains. Sometimes it is so dry that our mouths are parched and dry. Even though there may be water all around us, there may times of drought in our hearts and our soul. It could be that you have felt like that a time or two. I know that it happens to all of us. We may see the goodness of God in others lives, but long for Him to speak a direct word to us.

                Last week I had the pleasure of attending a men’s conference with a few Christian brothers. To be honest at first I was a bit apprehensive. After all, it was going to take up my whole Saturday. Did I really want to give that up? But I went anyway, probably because my friend asked me to go. I could not say no to him. So on a Saturday, I gave up my opportunity to sleep in and went to the conference.

                We were there early at the church. Way too early! It was so early that the coffee was not even made yet. However, one of the men that rode with us was going to be a presenter in one of the sessions so it was good for him at least. I continued in my apprehension, wanting to go hide in a corner. Little did I know that God had brought me there for a specific reason, and soon I was to find out why.

                For the last two months I have been in the place just like described in Psalm 63 where my soul has been crying out in a dry and weary land where there is no water. That however has been changed and the once parched heart has been renewed with fresh living water. There has been no change in personal circumstance, just a lifting of the drought. After a wonderful time and worship and a message we were asked to gather and pray for our brothers. A dear man, who I had not known before, lays hands on me, prays for me and my family’s situation, and finally let the rain soak in.

                We must know that we have not been deserted, even if it feels as such. We must remember the promises of God and know that God’s provision continues to provide in desperation and in abundance. We can give thanks like the Psalmist did; “⁹ Rain in abundance, O God, you shed abroad; you restored your inheritance as it languished; ¹⁰ your flock found a dwelling in it; in your goodness, O God, you provided for the needy. Psalm 68:9-10 (ESV)”

                Praise God that sometimes it rains.

Blast from the Past

Throwback Thursday

Grandpa and Grace 98

Anticipating May Flowers

Out back, behind the house on what used to be my parents property there was a special little spot. It was a small patch that I would venture to at least once a week during the end of March and well into April. The reason that I would go there was for one reason. That reason was to pick May flowers. It was the only place on the property that I knew with certainty that they grew year after year. The flowers were small with petal of purple and sometimes white. They looked like a small violet only I have never found out exactly what they were.

                There was always anticipation from the time the snow started to melt and the time when the little flowers came into bloom. Because when they did bloom it was sure that spring was upon us and that meant warmer weather. When I finally found them I would gather up a small bouquet to bring in to my mother. She was always glad to get them, so it felt good for me to share them with her.

                Today I am reminded as I look out my window of what it takes to have spring flowers. The day is cold, wet and dark, unlike the warm sunny days that a wonderful little flower needs to come forth from the earth. As well, I am reminded that not long ago, there was snow on the ground with freezing temperatures. How amazing it is that we need to go through winters to enjoy the little things that come after.

                As I am currently between ministry assignments, it somewhat feels like a long “winter.” I eagerly await for a glimpse of spring. I long to take my walk and see the May flowers. For where there are the signs of spring, there is certainly more hope to come. Maybe you have been there before as well. Even in the midst of your circumstance, you are not alone and there is hope to come. In the greatest love story ever, the writer of the Song of Solomon reminds us ¹¹ for behold, the winter is past; the rain is over and gone. ¹² The flowers appear on the earth, the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtledove is heard in our land. Song of Songs 2:11-12 (ESV) Everything has its season, even in the darkness of winter and the rains of spring we can know that there are bright and precious things to come.

                God does not leave us is the same season all the time. We can anticipate that God has a purpose and a place for us. We may have to endure winter for a season, but God is still with us. Jesus reminded his disciples, ²⁷ Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Luke 12:27 (ESV) Let’s continue to anticipate the May flowers together and know that God continues to help us through. If God takes care of the flowers of the field, how much more He will take care of those who he calls His own.

Celebrating the Marvel and Mystery

Luke 24:1-3 (ESV) ¹ But on the first day of the week, at early dawn, they went to the tomb, taking the spices they had prepared. ² And they found the stone rolled away from the tomb, ³ but when they went in they did not find the body of the Lord Jesus.  

                Most people like a good mystery, I know that I do. You get into the story, get to know the characters and then watch the twist and turns as it all plays out. We know that in the end, the bad guy will get his punishment and the good guy will get the girl. The mystery and suspense keeps us going to the end of the story and then we are surprised with a witty and surprising ending.

                As I reflect upon the life and death of Jesus in many ways it can be compared with the greatest of mysteries ever. At what we think is the end comes one of the greatest twists ever. Just as we think the hero Jesus has been overcome by the very power of death and evil, Jesus prevails victorious as he emerges from the grave. What an amazing event, and a mystery to behold. Jesus is the victor. Jesus is the fulfill-er of prophesy to overcome death.

                Once a year as followers of Christ Jesus we celebrate Easter. This is a celebration of the greatest event ever to happen in history. We gather together for worship and fellowship. We get together with family and friends to eat and visit. But when the ham is gone and the good dishes are put away what do we do? Life goes back to normal and we begin to think about Mother’s Day or the Fourth of July.

                I have begun to think that one day is not enough. That one hour of worship and a ham for dinner is not enough. I want to challenge myself and anyone else who will take it one to remember the resurrection each and every day. There should be no limit to the marvel and mystery. There should be no limit to the power and the victory of Christ. If we truly believe in who Jesus is as the very Son of God who rose from the grave then shouldn't we live as such? Shouldn't we embrace the mystery, the marvel, the victory and the power? I know that I want to continue to embrace it all and live it out in my life every day.

                I still like a good mystery. The mystery of Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection will continue to make a different in the world. It will continue to play out in peoples lives for them to know the wonder of the One True God.

Connectedness and an Electric Charge.

    When I was in my teens I was electrocuted. My parents were doing some remodeling to the house one summer and we were staying in a camper. One morning I was outside, ran to the camper door with my wet feet and .............ZZZZAAAARRRRRPPPPPP! 220 volts running through my body. It was a shocking (LOL) experience and probably explains my strangeness to this day. I remember that electric charge going into my arm, through my body and then down to the ground. If I had not fell backward I probably would have been crispy.
    As I reflect about that still today, and then relate it all to my Christian life, I long for that "groundedness." I think we all do. It is so easy to have the Word, prayer, worship, and even stewardship in and around us all the time. However, until we are grounded to God, nothing in us is ever going to happen in His will. It just sits there waiting, waiting, waiting, and then gradually dissipates into empty space. However, living with God, living unto God, and being grounded in God makes the whole difference.
    One of the warnings I have always shared with friends, family and the church is that facts and knowledge about God are not enough. We can easily attain lots of information about God. But it takes more than just information. It takes a rooted relationship. Without the rooted relationship, without the "connectedness" to God we have no power. Maybe that is the reason the Trinity is such an amazing realization about God. When we are connected to God we are connected to the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. This is the power. This is the electric charge for the Christian. This is how the power flows.

I pray that we all find this kind of power from on high.

Breaking Through the Barrier?

Written a couple years ago. Thought it needed to be shared again.


I hate trying to drive in the snow. Especially in a vehicle that is not meant for such climates. My minivan is one such vehicle. I love it, but it is no fun when there is a little snow on the ground. Just the other day I got stuck in the church parking lot. There I was spinning my wheels stuck in a snow bank, with a line of people waiting to get by me on the street. I got moved a little and they finally went around me. It was disappointing and discouraging. I really want another truck but know it is not feasible.
How many people today are like my van? I know that often I am, especially when it comes to prayer. I try and I try and I try to pray, yet get nowhere. I do not feel accomplished, I do not feel the movement that should come with prayer. Instead, I am spinning and spinning.
Recently I have been reading and trying to do some study on prayer. Reading from Andrew Murray in The Prayer Life and reading Jesus' parable in Luke 18, I find myself needing to be more and more like the widow. If I seek justice then I need to go to the Source of Justice. If I seek answers then I need to go to the source of where those answers will be given and not give up until they are. If I really desire the answer then I must believe that it will given.
I have found that when you are stuck, that any movement is good movement. That means that you still have the potential to move. Sometimes it will take a push. Sometimes it will take some backing up and getting a better track. Whatever it is - keep moving. You are certain to have a breakthrough soon.

Keep Praying, Keep Praying, Keep the Faith!
Anthony

The Man Who Wore a Hat – Part 4

                Are you ready? Have you been WAITING for this last installment?

OK I will not put it off any longer.

                The walls were pink, and near the ceiling there was a flowery border of yellow, maroon and baby blue. Hanging on the walls were some ornamental decorations that looked like vines and more flowers. To complement the wall hangings were lithograph pictures from a bygone era that invoked a feeling that grandma lived here. Toward the front of the room were colorful banners, live flowers, and draperies over the windows. White frilly doilies were placed under each the flowers and the candle stands. The floors matched the walls only in a darker shade that made it look almost luxurious.

                Environment makes a difference. How would the man who wore a hat feel in such an environment that was described above? Is this a place where he would feel comfortable? Is this a place where he would be willing to return? The above description is a compilation of many churches that I have visited. Thankfully not all of the items were in one place. In their own right are innocent and yet most do not see their offense.

                My suggestion is not that we do away with all aesthetics, but rather that the church take an honest look at the environment and make appropriate changes to become friendlier to men. I would suggest that most men prefer the simple. Color is OK, but it is best to refrain from the pastels and feminine colors as well as that type of décor. Most men do not mind going to their grandmother’s house, but we do not want our churches to look as such. If there are not some changes made soon, I am afraid that church as we know it today will become extinct. Men need to come back to church. They need to be the men that God wants them to be.

                What are some of your ideas to get the interest of men back to the things of Christian faith?

*****************************************************

Postscript

                Recently I caught a show on television regarding the best BBQ place in America. One of the places featured was a church in Texas that weekly had a food stand that featured BBQ. My thought was that this is the perfect way to bring men and the church together. This is the kind of church I desire to be a part of. Where the men are together in Christian fellowship, out in God’s wonderful country, sitting around a fire pit, eating some wonderful BBQ and giving God the glory he deserves. I think that is possible. Pray for the men to return to faith.

BEST GRILLED CHEESE EVER!

    I am taking a culinary interlude to share with you about the BEST grilled cheese sandwich I have ever had. Now, I have to admit that I did make it however, it is the ingredients that will blow you away. Simple and delicious! Here is my recipe!

Fresh Italian Bread buttered on the outside.
3 slices or one layer of Fresh Brick Cheese
3 slices or one Aged Monta Kuh Cheese (Basically this is a one year aged brick cheese)

Grill it. That is it!
Of course I had it with some tomato basil soup.

This is the best ever. The brick cheese has a similar texture of a mozzarella yet it is not so stringy. The Monta Kuh is like a mild white cheddar with just a little bite. It's texture is a little softer but very smooth. I know that most of you will never find these cheeses but my thanks to the folks at Shultz Family Cheese in Lowville for making a quality product that is far above anything else. If you are local go get some! https://www.facebook.com/ShultzFamilyCheese

The Man Who Wore a Hat – Part 3

                I like music. I will listen to most kinds of music in fact, even rap if it is somewhat tasteful. But my taste in music is not necessarily like my wife’s. My taste in music is not necessarily like yours. Let me first state that I believe in need for contemporary music in the church. I also believe in the need for traditional hymns and choruses. My struggle however, comes from the thought that too much of our church music sounds like songs we would sing to a lover or romantic interest.

                Once again all of this boils down to men and their comfort level. I am not afraid to say that Jesus is my King and Savior. I am not afraid to say that I am thankful for what Jesus did for me upon the cross. I am even bold enough to say that I love Jesus Christ the Son of the Most Holy God. But to sing it like I would to my wife in a romantic setting is completely foreign. I have come to the conclusion that if in a praise song you can substitute the word “baby” for the name of Jesus it may be that the song may not be suitable for men.

                Recently I went through a few of the top praise songs. Many would fall into genre that I just mentioned above. I believe for men we would liken our relationship with God as one would to a general in a battle instead of over a love relationship. We need a King and Conqueror. We need a Lord and a Savior. We need a rousing song of encouragement and praise to move us forward to the battle lines. To help take the punishment of every day and to rouse us to stand up for Jesus! A romantic relationship is safe and secure while a battle is action and adventure. As men, for the sake of the Gospel we cannot afford to be safe and secure. There is a battle waging and there are people perishing without a savior if we do not do something about it.

                Is there a solution to all of this? I believe so. Just be thoughtful in worship of the music selection. I would try a 2-1 formula. For every three songs make two men friendly and the other can be geared to the softer side.

               

Let me know what works for you. How do you get the men in church to worship and sing their praises?

Remember to be waiting for the final installment to be coming soon. So remember to follow this blog. Thanks!

The Man Who Wore a Hat – Part 2

                If you ever have been immersed in a culture that is different from your own, you cannot but help to be a bit self-conscious. To communicate you resort to the primitive by pointing and drawing. It is best if you can seek out someone that knows your language so that you can communicate. Some places make that not so easy. In others being multilingual is commonplace. To order at a restaurant you have to resort by pointing or guessing. You may have to have ask directions by pointing to a map of the place you are trying to go. At least these are the things that I had to do. One learns as you go, and the longer you are immersed the easier it becomes.

                As I had mentioned in the first part of the blog, there once was a man with a hat that came to church. He looked out of place and he must have felt out of place as well. He was in a foreign land and certainly did not speak the language that everyone else was speaking. We forget about this in the church. We have forgotten about the people, specifically the men who do not know the language of the church. We are the ones that need to interpret Christianity and use a “man friendly” terminology.

                Our church language or terminology in the evangelical church sets itself apart from the rest of western society. What we think is common place is actually foreign to most men. For instance the evangelical church puts a heavy priority on having a relationship with God. Many go the extreme that we are to have an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. While all of this is true in most respects, I believe that it is hard for most men to grasp. We are to be growing in Christ closer and closer every day. But the emotions of most men are simply not wired that way.

                Recently I was discussing this with a friend of mine. He was sharing of how we learn many of our traits from our fathers. Both of our fathers were similar in that they did not openly show their love to the male children in the family. Love was expressed in the loyalty of provision of home and sustenance. There were no coddling or touchy-feely moments in my family. There were just men teaching boys to be men that were strong and able to deal with the problems of the world.

                There are words and concepts that simply do not translate the same as even 50 years ago. Common church terms such as: “being born again”, “What Would Jesus Do?”, “I’m Praying for You”, and “Praise the Lord” mean very little unless they are really acted upon. Speaking in terms of having an intimate relationship with Jesus not only sounds foreign but also may be uncomfortable with many men. As a man I may have several close friends, however there is only one person that I am intimate with, and that is my wife. The later relationship I do not discuss and do not consider it to be anyone’s business. That is the way for most men as we age and mature.

                As I seek to find a better way for men to understand what it means to follow Christ, I think the word that describes the relationship best is “loyalty”. We want a leader. We want someone who will lead us to victory. We want a savior that will help us in the everyday battle. In a world that has been plagued by the consumer mentality, loyalty is what has been missing. Loyalty means that we will put our lives on the line. Loyalty means that we will follow to the ends of the earth. Loyalty establishes a bond and commitment that will not be broken. I believe loyalty is the kind of relationship a man can understand.

What do you think? Loyalty or intimacy? Let me know in the comments what you think. These are only my opinions, but I am curious to hear yours.

The Man Who Wore a Hat

                Not long ago I went to visit a friend’s church. It was a great service, full of loving and welcoming people. The music was good, the Word was preached and I left being challenged and yet affirmed. I could not help but notice however a man setting on the other side of the aisle. It was the man with the baseball hat on. He stuck out like a sore thumb. Not because he wanted to, but it was rather that he did not belong nor did he want to be there.

                He sat next to his wife or significant other. She was getting into and enjoying the service. She had her Bible with her and was following along. She was raising her hands and giving praise to God. All the while, the man stood, sat, and did his best to try to look interested. He tried to look interested, and yet it was all he could do to keep his eyes open. It wasn't because he was tired, but rather because the language of Church was completely foreign to him.

                Unfortunately this man in the hat was not the only one. Across the country every week there are men that are feeling the same way. These are men who do not understand the language of church. These are men that see church as a place that is completely foreign to them. We have taken Christianity and made it so hard for men to understand that is almost is the point of being repulsive. Let me expand upon this further in three more blogs. I want to looks at three aspects of the church that make men uncomfortable. Those three aspects are the church’s music, the Christian’s terminology and the environment of the local church.

                As you read, please share with me your experience and how we can hopefully make church more welcoming to men.

A Year Ago Today

                 Today I decided that I am going to celebrate. It was not an easy decision to make. It is an event that not many people would associate with celebration. However, I am going to change that. You see, last March 21^st was the day that a great man passed away from this earth into eternity.

                All of it is so vivid in my mind. We all we gathered around my father; my Sister, her husband, my mother, my wife, and myself were all there. Earlier in the day there had been calls from my other two sisters, and a visit from my brother. But it was during the cold peaceful night that we were stoking the fire of the stove that we waited. Stoking the fire and watching the breaths become shallower and slower was all that was left to do. The memories still flash. The mourning, the ghastly anticipation all molded together with a feeling of helplessness grasped my heart. And yet, there was still peace, the kind of peace that passes all understanding. It was a heavenly peace that comes from God alone, followed by an un-climatic climax when my father took his last breath.

                For some of you there is no reason to celebrate. You did not know my father. You did not know the man. That is ok. But someday you may be in my position to make the same decision. I choose to celebrate because God blessed us to be family, to be father and son. I celebrate because of the memories of love and selflessness that he gave. I am thankful for the earthly time, but my hope truly is in eternity. Know today that you have a Heavenly Father that loves you and wants you to be with Him today. This may have happened a year ago today, but it is today that I live for and celebrate.

Be a blessing and be blessed!

Eating the Church du Jour!

......I wrote this a while back but found it still very true.

            Not long ago, I opened up the latest copy of a popular pastor’s magazine. I used to enjoy reading about the latest books and some of the latest trends. However, something hit me really hard as I caroused through the pages. Where do these guys come up with this stuff? There is the post-modern church, the emerging church, the emergent church, the satellite church, and so many others I am not able to keep up with all. Are these things really for me? Just because they worked for one guy how am I to know that they will work for me. Why even should I try them? They tell me why… “because it will change and improve Your ministry.” WOW! That is quite the claim. Why should I even waste my time reading these same words that have been written over and over again. I am not a mega church wanna be. I am not a mega church pastor. I do not desire to build a mega church. I just want to love my Jesus and serve the Lord. Yes, I do have a desire to preach the gospel. Yes, I want to reach out and share Christ. Yes, I want to make disciples and help grow the church. But, does it have to be broadcast to a satellite church? Do I have to use Power Point just to communicate? Do I have to entertain the people and appease their senses? Help us please Jesus! What have we come to?

            Truly I am tired of the Church du Jour philosophy. I am starting to wonder about it’s validity and even it’s long term viability. There is so much hype but very little in terms of outcome. There is little in terms of content. The Church du Jour, catering to the tickling ear only leads to an empty heart. I agree that there are many who are seeking. There are many who are looking for Christian community. Yet there seems to be something lost in what is gained.

            Along with the Church du Jour is the latest and interesting fact that for every single success in ministry that person as well has to write a brag book outlining their achievements and giving advice on how the rest of us jokers can do the same. Little does any of them tell us is that out of every success there are hundreds and possibly thousands of failures. Not that any attempt in ministry is a failure but rather that not all will be blessed in the same way. Every ministry leader and pastor is unique and thus every ministry and church will be unique. As well there are certain geographic and sociological differences in every church community. There is not one possible way that a church in an urban big city will have the same flavor as a church in rural middle America. Why is it then we think there is a “fix all” for the church.

            Often I wonder if there is more than survival in ministry? I realize that all we can do is to do our best and let God do the rest. The Church du Jour model is not the answer for the Kingdom of God. What is the answer then? I think that we are pulling the blankets over our heads while the real ministry still needs to be done. Possibly we would be better using our time in prayer, Bible study and worship than on the latest books, magazines and info from the Church du Jour.

Chasing Rainbows and Leprechauns

                As I am writing this I am surrounded in the fact that it St. Patrick’s Day. The TV news has mentioned it, the radio has mentioned it, and even the popular search engine has a wonderful green header. The greatest part of the legend of St Patrick it that he had chased all of the snakes out of Ireland. From my understanding there had never been snakes in Ireland which makes it a more intriguing story. More important however is that he had brought Christianity to Ireland. The other picture we often associate with St. Patrick's day is that of the leprechaun and his infamous pot o' gold. How many of us as children have tried to find the end of the rainbow to get that gold?

                As I contemplate on this, I could not help but think of all the time I have wasted chasing snakes or pots of gold that were not there. How much time has been wasted by worrying, and seeking solutions to spiritual warfare that were solidly in God’s hands? Jesus was so clear that in our lives giving our time to the worry of the material desires of the gentiles or even to religiosity of the religious leaders was a waste. His words speak to us today. ”³³ But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33 (ESV)

                I wanted to share with you as well the popular prayer attributed to St. Patrick.

St. Patrick's Breastplate
I arise today through
God's strength to pilot me,
God's might to uphold me, 
God's wisdom to guide me,
God's eye to see before me,
God's ear to hear me,
God's word to speak for me,
God's hand to guard me,
God's way to lie before me, 
God's shield to protect me,
God's host to secure me-
against snares of devils,
against temptation and vices,
against inclinations of nature,
against everyone who shall wish me ill, afar and near, alone and in a crowd...
Christ be with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me,
Christ in me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me,
Christ on my right, Christ on my left, Christ where I lie, Christ where I sit, Christ where I arise, Christ in the heart of every man who thinks of me,
Christ in the mouth of every man who speaks of me,
Christ in the every eye that sees me, Christ in every ear that hears me.
Salvation is of the Lord
Salvation is of the Lord
Salvation is of the Christ.
May your salvation O Lord be ever with us.         

                Seek Christ first and don’t get too distracted chasing rainbows or leprechauns. Happy St. Patrick's Day!

What is an Agnaphos Inkling?

What is an Agnaphos Inkling?
   I knew that this will come up soon or later so here is my response. Wikipedia gives a good understanding of the Inklings and their background. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inklings However it omits the Christian aspect of their meetings. Both Tolkien and CS Lewis were two of the great theological minds of the time. They still inspire those who read their books
   The word agnaphos is the greek word that means unmilled, unfulled, undressed, unprocessed,or new. Thus this is the New Inklings. May it be a bridge of theological thought with the occasional other musings. Please enjoy and share.

The 7 Hard Lessons I've Learned in Ministry

            I have had some hard lessons in ministry. After nineteen years there has been something new almost every day. Most pastors have experienced these lessons. Each of them requires strength to endure, and then grace to move past them. But it still amazes me as to the hurt and stress that they bring years after they occurred. I am not sure that most of these lessons could have been avoided. However I am sure that all can learn from my mistakes. Certainly it would have best if all of my mistakes would have been made in the beginning years of my ministry. It never fails to amaze me that there is always some hard new lesson to learn. I have listed these lessons not in any sort of order of importance, but rather chronologically as I learned them.

Lesson One:

                My story is that of starting out as a young preacher with no experience, Bible College, or seminary training. Actually, I grew up in an unchurched family. (My call is certainly another story.) I decided to write my first sermon on Philemon because it was the shortest book. Silly logic, but I did not know better starting from scratch. That morning I could have preached the sermon 4 times, added commercials and still would have had time left over in half hour. Truth was I knew nothing. Later that year I was asked to lead a Bible study with a group of senior. It was certainly uncomfortable at first but they were welcoming and supportive. It was then that I realized my first hard lesson. There will always be someone that knows more than me. At first it intimidated me, but soon enough I grew to welcome the fact that the Saints in the church would always have more experience than me. It was better to go to them and ask for help than it was to remain intimidated and afraid that everything I said was already known. Lesson learned: There will always be people that will know more than you. Use them!

Lesson Two:

                Sometimes once is not enough. Sometimes you have to learn the same lesson twice. Early in my ministry I became the associate under my mentor Senior Pastor. He was a blessing and knew what to do in all circumstances. And yet this was a lesson that I know he learned even after a full lifetime of ministry. He had started at the church only months before I came. It was the first Sunday that I noticed that at the top of the bulletin that the senior pastor was not the only pastor listed. There was another, he was listed as the Pastor Emeritus. Come to find out that the person considered to be the pastor emeritus was the previous pastor that had retired from the church and still lived in the community. Even after his retirement, people from the church continued to call him, vent to him and he continued to visit the congregants in their homes. This was detrimental to the senior pastor’s ministry in which he never really recovered until he finally retired and moved away. Certainly this did not need to be the case, but the situation was already present. There were multiple ethical boundaries crossed and the senior pastor was not allowed to be the pastor he was called to be. Such lack of ethics does not always happen, but when it does it can be tragic. Lesson learned: Beware the pastor emeritus. Or at least be careful and know the dangers.

Lesson Three:

                Oh to be young and stupid. Unfortunately I cannot use that excuse anymore. With youth often comes zeal that is somewhat unbridled. This was my case. At the time, I was with a mainline denomination and decided to speak out and support my local congregation with one of the hot issues that was being challenged. I thought I was right because of my Biblical stance and support by most members of the local congregation. Yet it was not to be. When the news got to the higher levels of the denomination, the correction came down and I became expendable. What I did was not wrong, but being young and new, meant I had a lesson to learn. I was outside the views of the denominational leaders. They did not want someone challenging their status quo. My lesson learned was: Know who’s feathers you might be ruffling.

Lesson Four:

                Years later after I had finished seminary, switched denominations and was called again to fulltime ministry, I thought that things were going well in the church. Many things were good and relations were good in the community. My wife and I became very active in community events as well as deciding to become foster parents. It was a wonderful ministry, and we were able to adopt three of our five children. We connected with social workers, other foster parents, and some of the children’s parents as well. We shared our love and our faith with them. It was a wonderful opportunity. However, here is where the lesson came in. While my wife and I had a heart for the ministry of connecting with the people who are involved in the foster program, people in the church did not feel the same way. They did not see the value that we did, nor did they see our interaction with our foster parent acquaintances. I believe it is important to do community minded activities of which we may have a personal passion for. The lesson learned is that somehow the congregation needs to see your ministry outside of the church. It is just as important as what goes on inside the walls. Do not be boastful, but help the church see the bigger picture of the Kingdom of God.

Lesson Five:

                I am a big man, but the shadows of those who have gone before us are bigger. It is not easy to live in those shadows. It is not easy to daily be reminded of the Historic Saints that could do no wrong and were so well loved. When I first experienced this I was amazed that a particular Saint from the 1950’s was still a popular figure in the community. He has pastured the church for fifteen years and then went on to pastor another church in another part of the state for over fifty years, complete with a radio and television ministry. There was no way that an ordinary pastor could live up to that kind celebrity. I finally realized that there was no use in trying. I needed to blaze my own trail and make my own memories, thus being the pastor that I could be, not who someone else was. My lesson learned was that there will always be comparisons, just make sure you live your own ministry outside of the historic shadow.

Lesson Six:

                Things are not always what they seem. We all have seen optical illusions that deceive the eyes and make the picture to look like something it is not. Parallel lines can look crooked, and colors can appear that are not there are some the great examples of how we can perceive these illusions. In the church it takes on a bit different appearance. Sometimes for the pastor that is good and other times not. Sometimes the perception of what people think they see is stronger that the truth. I have seen this happen time and time again. The one day that you step away from the office for something, becomes the day that the pastor is never available. The sermon that you had a hard time with and did not come out the way you planned becomes a problem that the pastor is never prepared for Sunday. The time that a senior is in the hospital and no one tells you, becomes that pastor never makes hospital calls. I am sure that you could add your experience. The lesson that remains is that perception is often stronger than the truth. Make sure that you keep track the best you can to reflect the real truth.

Lesson Seven:

                The last lesson I want to share is one that also has reared its ugly head more than once. Often this presents its self early in a ministry, however the longer that it takes to show, the harder the lesson learned. That lesson is to watch out for the unspoken expectations. These unspoken expectations could be somewhat simple and yet lead to a congregation that does not feel its needs are being met. My favorite example of this is when we had moved to a new church. We had moved there in the summertime and were doing our best to pick up on the local culture. Just two days before Thanksgiving, one of the church leaders came to me and asked what time the Thanksgiving Eve Service was at? At first, I was stumped and had to ask what was a Thanksgiving Eve Service? Never had I heard of such a thing, it certainly was not part of my culture or experience. Next, I realized that we had plans with the family that was only a daytrip away. I was both dazed and confused. Yes, we were able to put a service together quickly and the next year knew to plan ahead. Often the unspoken expectations are the little things like how many times you are to visit shut-ins or the nursing home, how many hours you are to spend in the office, or even how long you are supposed to preach. They may be petty things but are always of importance to someone. Certainly it is important to seek out what are the unspoken expectations are for you and then learn that lesson early.

                These are just a few lessons that I have learned in ministry. There are so many others. The key for me is that I continue to learn. What about you, what are the lessons you have you learned?

----------------- Anthony has pastured rural and small town churches since 1995. He is the husband of Heidi and father of two biological and three adopted children. Anthony received his MDiv from Sioux Falls Seminary and has served on various regional and association committees. In his spare time he loves to fish and play guitar but not at the same time.