Pendulums, Spectrums and Slopes

Listening to a recent podcast left me thinking about pendulums. Tony Jones traveled to Denmark and Norway and was doing an interview turned podcast. During his introduction he noted the differences in the cultural relationship between church and state in Norway. Tony noted the difference between a social democracy and a liberal democracy. For instance in Norway the Lutheran Church is the State church. But in the United States there is no State church. The comparison helped crystallize something I have been thinking for some time. In fact, David and I were talking about this very thing a couple of weeks ago and the thoughts made their way into the sermon this past Sunday, the sixth Sunday of Easter.

Our particular denomination, during my formative years educationally and in terms of training, spent an inordinate amount of time with comparisons. Leaders regularly warned of the slippery trajectory taken by “other” denominations once making “liberal” concessions. Since we take great pains with local church autonomy and priesthood of believers, the rallying cry intended to attract the attention of individuals (churches and pastors) to join the movement keeping from leftward drift. This post is not about the particular doctrinal moves many suggested would lead to liberalism. Instead, this post intends to suggest we need to be honest about our particular spectrum as the pendulum inevitably swings and we worry about slippery slopes. Read the story »

Beautiful Idols

A friend and I were strolling the streets of Barcelona back in February. Our conversation turned to just how we may identify people. I will tip my hand quickly to say I fear the practice of categorization simplifies our lives. We really have no need to get to know someone. Once we can, by our ruler, measure someone we may then determine their worth to us. We either choose to engage them on deeper levels or we dismiss them. And, everyone knows our goal is simpler lives. Let’s not take the time with people - takes to much out of us.

Slowly I am making my way through Pete Gall’s My Beautiful Idol. It is not a difficult read. Rather, about the time I think I have time to make great strides through the book I encounter people. My vocation will not allow a quick dismissal. I cannot categorize those who come by as having value or merit based on some hidden ruler. Imagine the mental conversation. “Now Joe sure is getting on my nerves. I have spent hours with him and he just does not seem t listen. I am going to have to turn this one off. What a waste of time.” (Yes, fictional character.) Life would be simpler if we could dismiss those who did not benefit us in some way. Read the story »

Thoughtful

Never really the romantic type I set out this year to surprise my wife. Back in the day, high school days, I would head over to see her and stop at 7-11 and pick her up a large Icee and a Zero candy bar. After heading off to college, I would come home on the weekends to see her. I would take the Agnew/Villa exit on I-40 and head north. At the intersection of 10th and Villa I would stop at a small independent flower shop. I would select one carnation and take it to her. These were some of my best romantic moves.
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