1) Peterson provided the launch pad for my doctoral dissertation on spiritual formation. Please post any general comments or questions related to Peterson's text. One of my favorite sections is, "The Assumptions of Subversives" (pp. 34-37). Who is your favorite spy, detective, or anarchist that you utilize in developing your leadership style? [My detective is Columbo, he fumbles around dealing with "I got this problem, could you help me figure it out? I attempt to distract and through people/students out of their norm/rut to possibly embrace another world/perspective/kingdom in our lives & ministry.] I guess the detective that I most identify with is Nancy Drew. Nancy was a junior detective. I enjoyed reading her books when I was in middle school. I liked the fact that she was brave, intelligent, and perceptive. She never seemed to go looking for a case; cases seemed to come to her! This really is similar to my call to ministry. I never went in pursuit of ministry; I really tried to avoid it. When my avoidance tactics failed, I had no other choice but to embrace my calling. The Lord has been preparing me for some form of ministry by dropping people into my life who seem to need encouragement, discipleship, restoration, healing, etc. and I, like Nancy, am wondering what to do next. I am being forced to rely on God to help me, help others. It is a very scary proposition but I know that I am not in this alone.
2) Curing souls connects to the movement (fad?) of Christian counseling toward spiritual direction rather than only psychological/social methodology & skills. What happens when you can't fix a problem/person/program? I am not a pastor but if I am presented with a situation that is “beyond the scope of my expertise” I will refer the person to a reliable Christian who has been trained in that area. I have been faced with that situation and I prayed with that person, encouraged them to talk with their pastor, and offered them a referral to a Christian counselor that I know. I believe in divine healing. One of my favorite images is that of Jesus as the Great Physician. I believe that He can and will heal through a variety of means both natural and supernatural.
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader. Being unbusy means taking time for proper self-care, spending quality time with family and friends, and spending time personal prayer and Scripture reading. I work full-time, take a full course load, am an associate minister for a pastor who lives out of town, and I have a temporarily disabled husband, and a five and fifteen year olds. I am always pressed for time, so I have to make time for all of this because it is not just what I do, but who I am. I have had to become more organized and wake up earlier so that I can get my devotional time in. Since the birth of my son (age 5), there is never a quiet moment in my home between the hours of 5am-8pm, so I wake up at 4am so that I can have my quiet time with the Lord. It is so peaceful and relaxing at that time of the morning. I thought that I would miss the sleep but I have found that it really helps reduce my stress level; this is my unbusy time. Subversive, means ruffling feathers, moving outside of the comfort zones, and not maintaining the status quo! I guess I am subversive in some ways. I have always fought for the underdog. I have a real compassion for those on the fringes of society. I have worked in ministries to homosexuals, the homeless, and the drug addicted. If this is not subversive, I do not know what is! These ministries are all outside of my home church. I have come up against a lot of resistance from those who do not truly see the value of such ministries. Some, in my tradition, would call my attending seminary subversive! I believe that God needs more men and women who will follow Jesus’ example of subversion. I am not sure about the term apocalyptic. I understand the idea of apocalyptic literature so I will take a guess and make an assumption about that term. Apocalyptic in terms of ministry might mean having a sense of urgency in ministry. I believe this means actively working to advance the Kingdom of God with the knowledge that the kingdom is “already but not yet.” This is the knowledge that God needs ministers who will actively prepare men and women for kingdom work. Peterson says that being an apocalyptic pastor means prayer, poetry, and patience. I believe that in order to be an effective minister or even an effective witness for Christ, prayer must be central component. This type of prayer not only encompasses petitions but also silence before the Lord. Peterson writes, “Prayer is the most thoroughly present act we have as humans, and the most energetic: it sockets the immediate past into the immediate future and makes a flexible, living joint of them” (1993, 43-44). Being a poet, according to Peterson, means using the spoken word for communion rather than communication, in an attempt to heal the broken and wounded (1993, 46). Finally, patience is necessary for the apocalyptic minister. We need to exercise patience and learn to wait on the Lord. We must come to terms with the fact that we may not understand all of the whys and the hows but we know that God is sovereign and He is in control.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Detective and Eugene's book
Who is your favorite spy, detective, or anarchist that you utilize in developing your leadership style?
My favorite detective is one my children (young men) have introduced me to because they watch Monk often. I like him because he is unconventional, a good observer and maybe because he is Lebenese and I am of Arab Descent. I am also a psychologist who has been training in observations, yet Monk's observational skills are so sharp that he figures the crime by observations.
questons that come up for me is- How to observe the presence of God, the work of the Holy Spirit, and Imanule, Jesus, God with us in everyday life. The disciplines of prayer, quiet, silence, reading God's word help but also looking at nature and developing an attitude of gratitude. Trying tp practice brother Andrew's little book of "Practicing His presence" in everyday tasks like doing dishes and washing cloths.
Our book had so many quotes. I liked the one on page 4 "Christian spirituality means living in the mature wholeness of the gospel. Taking all the elements of our lives and experience them as an act of faith. At the end of the day there is a sence of Awe about what God is doing and helping others see the grace operating in their lives." This resonates with me. God is to be the central of my and my family's life. God is awsome, and there is so much to thank God for and to give God the respect and praise that God deserves.
Comments about the chapters or Unbusy Pastor, the Subsersive Jesus, and the Apocalyptic Pastor. pg 21 talk about "Leisure is a quality of the Spirit". I might have already told you that I am a Martha, I like to get things done and am very task oriented. My children have helped me to relax and take care of my body, emotions, my mind and my spirit and emagination. The often have called me to relax with them and play games or just be still and watch a TV show. The Psalmist also reminds me to "Be still and know that I am God." I need that still ness in my life. I love sitting by the lake (Saint Marys Lake) and forgetting all about time, allowing God' Karous time be present as I watch the sun set, or just stare at the waters.
The Chapter that caught my interests was the Apocalypit Pastor. Paul had an urgerncy to him, he preached Jesus because he thought the end times were near. That was 2 thousand years ago. pg 41 says "Apocalypse is arosn-- it secrelty sets a fire in the immagination that boils the fat out of an obese culture-religion and renders a clear gospel love, a pure gospel hope and a purged gospel faith" For all of you, What does this quote mean to you? I believe that when God calls us, he equips us and suffering might just be around the corner? Am I ready for it? Prayer is a big part of this. Te be available to the work of the HOly Spirit whenver and wherever God would call me (us)Passionatley patient is a way of saying we need to perserver--never give up. Hang on to our faith,even when life get hard --and I belive it will.
How do we develop communities that are passonaley patient, as stated on page 47. The mystery of God and the messy human condition is a tight rope for those who "care for the soul"
I praise God for faithful pasters who continue to preach the word of God even if their congregation is small and there doesn't seem to be 'sucess' as the world counts sucess. My friend at church told me once, God does not call us to be sucessful only to be faithful.
Thanks all for listening. If you feel like answering some of my questions, I would love to hear from you.
My favorite detective is one my children (young men) have introduced me to because they watch Monk often. I like him because he is unconventional, a good observer and maybe because he is Lebenese and I am of Arab Descent. I am also a psychologist who has been training in observations, yet Monk's observational skills are so sharp that he figures the crime by observations.
questons that come up for me is- How to observe the presence of God, the work of the Holy Spirit, and Imanule, Jesus, God with us in everyday life. The disciplines of prayer, quiet, silence, reading God's word help but also looking at nature and developing an attitude of gratitude. Trying tp practice brother Andrew's little book of "Practicing His presence" in everyday tasks like doing dishes and washing cloths.
Our book had so many quotes. I liked the one on page 4 "Christian spirituality means living in the mature wholeness of the gospel. Taking all the elements of our lives and experience them as an act of faith. At the end of the day there is a sence of Awe about what God is doing and helping others see the grace operating in their lives." This resonates with me. God is to be the central of my and my family's life. God is awsome, and there is so much to thank God for and to give God the respect and praise that God deserves.
Comments about the chapters or Unbusy Pastor, the Subsersive Jesus, and the Apocalyptic Pastor. pg 21 talk about "Leisure is a quality of the Spirit". I might have already told you that I am a Martha, I like to get things done and am very task oriented. My children have helped me to relax and take care of my body, emotions, my mind and my spirit and emagination. The often have called me to relax with them and play games or just be still and watch a TV show. The Psalmist also reminds me to "Be still and know that I am God." I need that still ness in my life. I love sitting by the lake (Saint Marys Lake) and forgetting all about time, allowing God' Karous time be present as I watch the sun set, or just stare at the waters.
The Chapter that caught my interests was the Apocalypit Pastor. Paul had an urgerncy to him, he preached Jesus because he thought the end times were near. That was 2 thousand years ago. pg 41 says "Apocalypse is arosn-- it secrelty sets a fire in the immagination that boils the fat out of an obese culture-religion and renders a clear gospel love, a pure gospel hope and a purged gospel faith" For all of you, What does this quote mean to you? I believe that when God calls us, he equips us and suffering might just be around the corner? Am I ready for it? Prayer is a big part of this. Te be available to the work of the HOly Spirit whenver and wherever God would call me (us)Passionatley patient is a way of saying we need to perserver--never give up. Hang on to our faith,even when life get hard --and I belive it will.
How do we develop communities that are passonaley patient, as stated on page 47. The mystery of God and the messy human condition is a tight rope for those who "care for the soul"
I praise God for faithful pasters who continue to preach the word of God even if their congregation is small and there doesn't seem to be 'sucess' as the world counts sucess. My friend at church told me once, God does not call us to be sucessful only to be faithful.
Thanks all for listening. If you feel like answering some of my questions, I would love to hear from you.
Session 2 Response
Session #2, "Exploring the Problem and Adventure of Spiritual Direction"
[Reflections from Eugene Peterson's text] (Posted by Dr. Nissley)
1) This chapter was a fresh find for me. One of the reasons I have responded to God's call to ministry is because I had this concept that the Kingdom of God was more important than the temporary things of the earth. Peterson gave a me fresh reassurance that I am not crazy, but living in the truly real world. Now insofar as a detective or spy whom I can utilize in developing a leadership style, this is a little difficult for me to answer since I'm a generation past the age of detective shows as a subset of American media; nonetheless, the most fascinating investigator of which I know of would be Lt. Horatio Caine from the show CSI Miami. His character is consistently thoughtful--never quick to answers or hasty action. He sees into people through careful questions and clever statements, and has an almost inhuman ability to see through deception and the wrong ideas that various characters have. As one quote goes, "He is a liar. I just don't know what the lie is yet. " I find I have a great respect for people who can read into other people's lives, not out of assumptions, but out of careful observation of what and how they communicate.
2) In terms of "curing souls" as Peterson describes it, there isn't necessarily a definitive goal in mind that leads to someone, some program or some problem to being "fixed". The core idea with curing souls is one of not being pulled into the problem but discovering how God is working in the situation. The job of the leader then becomes to draw others into the path that God is on and out of the mire of bad situations. I will outrightly admit that one of the core reasons I am transitioning out of my current ministry is due to the fact that I saw large problems congregation-wide as unfixable and felt rather small and helpless in the midst of it. This chapter was again a fresh word to me about looking for God's movement, that is God's initiative, and seeking to draw others, one at a time if that's what it takes, to see what God is up to and to join Him.
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader?
Being unbusy as a leader is taking time for God and for people, and not filling one's schedule with problem solving and programs. More specifically, for God it means time in the prayer, time in the Word, and time in spiritual direction (something that has stuck with me since reading Peterson' Working the Angles). In taking time for people, it means listening, caring, and loving. Unbusy also means that Sabbath, both on a weekly basis and for longer Sabbath's a few times a year need to be taken, respected and used for recreation in God. Unbusy also means saying "no"more often to people's requests for your time that do not involve prayer, the Word, spiritual direction, and relationship development.
Being subversive as a leader is to keep in mind the real task we have, that is proclaiming the kingdom of God here and coming, and drawing others moment by moment into the kingdom. This is not through manipulation, coercion, expedient rush and intimidation, nor even negative judgment of what would happen if they don't see what I see. This subversive drawing of people to the kingdom should occur through building relationships of trust and good communication where I can listen to what people believe and go with them to God's response in his Word organically (that is, not by forcing a conversation about a particular kingdom-subject, but in the midst of ongoing conversation to introduce them to a worldview that is kingdom of God oriented), or even in the midst of preaching, to guide people into the Word and allow the Holy Spirit to change hearts and minds. In fact I would argue the most subversive thing we do as pastors is drawing people to spiritual places where the Holy Spirit will transform them.
Finally being apocalyptic as a leader means that while being unbusy, I will not forget that Christ is coming again. Being apocalyptic is reminding the people that we must concern ourselves with two relationships: with God and with others. Our relationship with others happens into areas, those we grow with in Christ and those to whom we reach out to show Christ. I appreciate how Peterson noted that the kingdom of God is not a hasty thing, but demands that we be "passionately patient" (47). Being apocalyptic as leader involves having the bride keep her lamp full that so that we are ready and waiting for the Bridegroom to appear (Matthew 25:1-13).
[Reflections from Eugene Peterson's text] (Posted by Dr. Nissley)
1) This chapter was a fresh find for me. One of the reasons I have responded to God's call to ministry is because I had this concept that the Kingdom of God was more important than the temporary things of the earth. Peterson gave a me fresh reassurance that I am not crazy, but living in the truly real world. Now insofar as a detective or spy whom I can utilize in developing a leadership style, this is a little difficult for me to answer since I'm a generation past the age of detective shows as a subset of American media; nonetheless, the most fascinating investigator of which I know of would be Lt. Horatio Caine from the show CSI Miami. His character is consistently thoughtful--never quick to answers or hasty action. He sees into people through careful questions and clever statements, and has an almost inhuman ability to see through deception and the wrong ideas that various characters have. As one quote goes, "He is a liar. I just don't know what the lie is yet. " I find I have a great respect for people who can read into other people's lives, not out of assumptions, but out of careful observation of what and how they communicate.
2) In terms of "curing souls" as Peterson describes it, there isn't necessarily a definitive goal in mind that leads to someone, some program or some problem to being "fixed". The core idea with curing souls is one of not being pulled into the problem but discovering how God is working in the situation. The job of the leader then becomes to draw others into the path that God is on and out of the mire of bad situations. I will outrightly admit that one of the core reasons I am transitioning out of my current ministry is due to the fact that I saw large problems congregation-wide as unfixable and felt rather small and helpless in the midst of it. This chapter was again a fresh word to me about looking for God's movement, that is God's initiative, and seeking to draw others, one at a time if that's what it takes, to see what God is up to and to join Him.
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader?
Being unbusy as a leader is taking time for God and for people, and not filling one's schedule with problem solving and programs. More specifically, for God it means time in the prayer, time in the Word, and time in spiritual direction (something that has stuck with me since reading Peterson' Working the Angles). In taking time for people, it means listening, caring, and loving. Unbusy also means that Sabbath, both on a weekly basis and for longer Sabbath's a few times a year need to be taken, respected and used for recreation in God. Unbusy also means saying "no"more often to people's requests for your time that do not involve prayer, the Word, spiritual direction, and relationship development.
Being subversive as a leader is to keep in mind the real task we have, that is proclaiming the kingdom of God here and coming, and drawing others moment by moment into the kingdom. This is not through manipulation, coercion, expedient rush and intimidation, nor even negative judgment of what would happen if they don't see what I see. This subversive drawing of people to the kingdom should occur through building relationships of trust and good communication where I can listen to what people believe and go with them to God's response in his Word organically (that is, not by forcing a conversation about a particular kingdom-subject, but in the midst of ongoing conversation to introduce them to a worldview that is kingdom of God oriented), or even in the midst of preaching, to guide people into the Word and allow the Holy Spirit to change hearts and minds. In fact I would argue the most subversive thing we do as pastors is drawing people to spiritual places where the Holy Spirit will transform them.
Finally being apocalyptic as a leader means that while being unbusy, I will not forget that Christ is coming again. Being apocalyptic is reminding the people that we must concern ourselves with two relationships: with God and with others. Our relationship with others happens into areas, those we grow with in Christ and those to whom we reach out to show Christ. I appreciate how Peterson noted that the kingdom of God is not a hasty thing, but demands that we be "passionately patient" (47). Being apocalyptic as leader involves having the bride keep her lamp full that so that we are ready and waiting for the Bridegroom to appear (Matthew 25:1-13).
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Session #2, "Exploring the Problem and Adventure of Spiritual Direction"
1) Peterson provided the launch pad for my doctoral dissertation on spiritual formation. Please post any general comments or questions related to Peterson's text. One of my favorite sections is, "The Assumptions of Subversives" (pp. 34-37). Who is your favorite spy, detective, or anarchist that you utilize in developing your leadership style? [My detective is Columbo, he fumbles around dealing with "I got this problem, could you help me figure it out? I attempt to distract and through people/students out of their norm/rut to possibly embrace another world/perspective/kingdom in our lives & ministry.]
I think that Petersen’s book is great and a breath of fresh air for me as a young Assistant Pastor. His section on the “Unbusy Pastor” was so on point for me and helped me to better understand myself and my “need” to help others, sometimes at the expense of myself and my family, and that this imbalance must change in order for me to live out God’s will as he has called me to live. As Assistant Pastor I take on many issues that I must learn to delegate and take a step back from in order to have true Sabbath rest and peace in my position. Fixing problems is part of my job and administration is a gift that God has given me, but I must learn that being unbusy allows me time to commune with God and others according to God’s plan and not my own. My wife and I discussed this section and I have adjusted my calendar appropriately to include “calendar appointments” that won’t be challenged where I can spend time with God and my family, pray, sit in silence and use other spiritual disciplines according to God’s direction. My favorite detective is actually Horatio Cane from CSI Miami on Mondays. He is very analytical, seeks to get to the bottom of every issue, but is active in resolving and participating in the resolution of the cases that come through the Miami Dade CSI Unit. His leadership style is decisive, analytical and action packed and those characteristics are some that I also use in my spiritual leadership as directed by the Holy Spirit.
2) Curing souls connects to the movement (fad?) of Christian counseling toward spiritual direction rather than only psychological/social methodology & skills. What happens when you can't fix a problem/person/program?
When I can’t fix a problem/person/program I sometimes get frustrated and seek to better understand the situation to try to find a solution. My perfectionist nature sometimes drives me down rabbit holes or involves me in issues that don’t have a solution for. This process has led me to become more dependent upon prayer and the Holy Spirit working in the situation rather than me “solving” the problem or providing the answer. I have also learned that in dealing with people or problems that sometimes a referral to an outside counselor or professional is best, and that not referring someone to an outside counselor or professional can be detrimental because I am not versed nor should I be versed in solving every problem that may arise (i.e. counseling a person that is bi-polar should be handled by a professional because many issues that the person is facing I may not detect and would not be able to prescribe the proper care for from a professional capacity). I believe that Christian counseling and spiritual direction are essential aspects of helping people deal with curing their souls, and these disciplines many times will lead to the person facing the heart of their issues directly through assistance and support that will help them emotionally, relationally and spiritually.
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader.
These three terms are ones that I must utilize, internalize and apply right now in my ministerial setting as an Assistant Pastor according to direction by the Holy Spirit. Being unbusy relates to really understanding the Sabbath and receiving from God the direction that I so desire because I will be open to hearing from God rather than being overly distracted by the cares and concerns that bog me down and drown out the small voice of God. Being subversive helps me to better understand that even though I may not see the fruits of what God is doing that those fruits will be brought to fruition in God’s time and not my own. I must continue to operate counter to culture but live within the culture that I am subverting for the Kingdom of God. This concept is great because I feel like Neo in the Matrix where he lives among the machines subverting their power but the world at large did not realize what he was doing because he was sent to accomplish his specific mission regardless of others knowing what the mission was or not. Being apocalyptic is a radical transformation in my understanding of this term, which helps me to understand better the concept of “patient urgency.” There are various ministries and community related activities that will build the Kingdom of God (i.e. Wings Enrichment Program for inner city youth in Toledo) that God has placed in my spirit that will have a great impact on the Toledo Community and the Kingdom of God that I am anxious to see come to pass; however, patient urgency helps me to understand that I must pray diligently and be prepared for God to reveal and bring to fruition those things that he is doing, rather than me trying to “make things happen” based upon my impatience or wanting to see the “fruit” without the process of patiently waiting for the seed to die in the ground, and the growth, preparation and provision that only God can provide in the process. Patient urgency helps me to focus on God’s will rather than my own and prepare myself and God’s people for a change that can occur in the twinkling of an eye after years of preparation for the twinkling.
I think that Petersen’s book is great and a breath of fresh air for me as a young Assistant Pastor. His section on the “Unbusy Pastor” was so on point for me and helped me to better understand myself and my “need” to help others, sometimes at the expense of myself and my family, and that this imbalance must change in order for me to live out God’s will as he has called me to live. As Assistant Pastor I take on many issues that I must learn to delegate and take a step back from in order to have true Sabbath rest and peace in my position. Fixing problems is part of my job and administration is a gift that God has given me, but I must learn that being unbusy allows me time to commune with God and others according to God’s plan and not my own. My wife and I discussed this section and I have adjusted my calendar appropriately to include “calendar appointments” that won’t be challenged where I can spend time with God and my family, pray, sit in silence and use other spiritual disciplines according to God’s direction. My favorite detective is actually Horatio Cane from CSI Miami on Mondays. He is very analytical, seeks to get to the bottom of every issue, but is active in resolving and participating in the resolution of the cases that come through the Miami Dade CSI Unit. His leadership style is decisive, analytical and action packed and those characteristics are some that I also use in my spiritual leadership as directed by the Holy Spirit.
2) Curing souls connects to the movement (fad?) of Christian counseling toward spiritual direction rather than only psychological/social methodology & skills. What happens when you can't fix a problem/person/program?
When I can’t fix a problem/person/program I sometimes get frustrated and seek to better understand the situation to try to find a solution. My perfectionist nature sometimes drives me down rabbit holes or involves me in issues that don’t have a solution for. This process has led me to become more dependent upon prayer and the Holy Spirit working in the situation rather than me “solving” the problem or providing the answer. I have also learned that in dealing with people or problems that sometimes a referral to an outside counselor or professional is best, and that not referring someone to an outside counselor or professional can be detrimental because I am not versed nor should I be versed in solving every problem that may arise (i.e. counseling a person that is bi-polar should be handled by a professional because many issues that the person is facing I may not detect and would not be able to prescribe the proper care for from a professional capacity). I believe that Christian counseling and spiritual direction are essential aspects of helping people deal with curing their souls, and these disciplines many times will lead to the person facing the heart of their issues directly through assistance and support that will help them emotionally, relationally and spiritually.
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader.
These three terms are ones that I must utilize, internalize and apply right now in my ministerial setting as an Assistant Pastor according to direction by the Holy Spirit. Being unbusy relates to really understanding the Sabbath and receiving from God the direction that I so desire because I will be open to hearing from God rather than being overly distracted by the cares and concerns that bog me down and drown out the small voice of God. Being subversive helps me to better understand that even though I may not see the fruits of what God is doing that those fruits will be brought to fruition in God’s time and not my own. I must continue to operate counter to culture but live within the culture that I am subverting for the Kingdom of God. This concept is great because I feel like Neo in the Matrix where he lives among the machines subverting their power but the world at large did not realize what he was doing because he was sent to accomplish his specific mission regardless of others knowing what the mission was or not. Being apocalyptic is a radical transformation in my understanding of this term, which helps me to understand better the concept of “patient urgency.” There are various ministries and community related activities that will build the Kingdom of God (i.e. Wings Enrichment Program for inner city youth in Toledo) that God has placed in my spirit that will have a great impact on the Toledo Community and the Kingdom of God that I am anxious to see come to pass; however, patient urgency helps me to understand that I must pray diligently and be prepared for God to reveal and bring to fruition those things that he is doing, rather than me trying to “make things happen” based upon my impatience or wanting to see the “fruit” without the process of patiently waiting for the seed to die in the ground, and the growth, preparation and provision that only God can provide in the process. Patient urgency helps me to focus on God’s will rather than my own and prepare myself and God’s people for a change that can occur in the twinkling of an eye after years of preparation for the twinkling.
Saturday, January 26, 2008
The Word Made Fresh
Creativity is a word that Peterson used throughout his text. This word is music to my ears. It was not by accident that this section, The Word Made Fresh-Poets and Pastors interested me the most. I am a published poet and poetry has allowed me to reach out and touch people beyond my physical touch. I have a gift for creativity and understand the need to use old words in a fresh way. Now, this section is at the end of the book and I believe it is a fitting end because it sums up the stated or implied importance of creativity. Reading Peterson’s book is like poetry; each chapter speaks to each reader in a different way. As one reads the poems at the end, it is easy to see how poetry speaks a language of its own. I have often been asked to interpret my poems for others. When this request is made, I usually say, “It is not what it means to me but what it means to you.” Reading poetry is like reading the Scriptures; each time you read it the Spirit may send a different message or word for the reader to ponder. The use of poetry is just a creative way to awaken the Spirit of God in the hearts of seekers. It draws them into the process of spiritual direction by forcing the seeker to answer the question, “What is this saying to me on my journey?” Whether in classrooms, pulpits, workshops or day-to-day living, poetry has been a creative and useful tool that has accompanied me on my journey. I believe that through poetry the Word of God can be presented in a fresh, non-threatening way making it easier to receive. I believe that poetry is a tool that can open the window of the soul so that the Spirit of God can enter in and perhaps, stay awhile.
I believe creativity, regardless of the form, is the conduit through which receptivity can be achieved. I agree with Peterson that creativity is hard work. It is a lot of work to sit down and say, “How can I prepare this sermon or lesson where the majority will listen and comprehend the message?” “How can I schedule my time as to be more available to the seekers?” Jesus taught in parables as a means to connect to the listener-to simplify the message. The relevant question is “Isn’t making a connection with the seeker the goal of the pastor or leader?” How can we possibly engage in spiritual direction without a proper connection? As pastors strive to impart the Word of God to seekers, creativity becomes an ongoing activity. Is this subversive activity? Sure.
I like Columbo but Jessica Fletcher, a fictional character, featured in the series, Murder, She Wrote, is one of my favorite solvers of crimes because of the creative way that she does it. She is a poet in my opinion. Although she is an author of mystery books, her demeanor does not boast. She approaches crime solving as an everyday occurrence—offering assistance where needed. Jessica can pleasantly uncover the guilt of someone whom she has befriended prior to the crime and they will thank her at the end of the movie. The secret to her success is that she connects with individuals in a non-threatening way. When she confronts them about their guilt, they are caught off guard. If we impart the Word of God in a fresh non-threatening way, maybe more seekers will thank us as they repent of their sin and become followers of Christ.
2. More often than not I have discovered that when I can’t fix a problem/person/program, it may have to stay broken and I must look for alternatives. My mother used to say, “Child you can’t fix everything. Some things will have to stay broken.” God is the Creator and ultimate fixer of everything. When I am confronted with people, problems or programs that I cannot fix, I point it in the direction of the Holy Spirit—prayer. I look for God in the midst of it all. Perhaps, I was trying to do it in my own power. The bottom line is, the fixing may not come through me. My job may be one of learning how to live with brokenness and to teach others to do the same. Following the direction of the Holy Spirit becomes paramount when dealing with brokenness. I yield to it.
3. Being “unbusy,” subversive, & apocalyptic mean being creative to me as a Christian leader. As Peterson wrote, these three are vital in the pastor’s ministry. When we become available (unbusy), then we can uncover what is at the core and plant the seed of the Spirit (subversive) in order to reveal what God has in store for his people (apocalyptic). All of this takes place utilizing creative means. As leaders we must become unshackled from the things of the world that keep us from meeting the spiritual needs of the people and even ourselves. What do you think?
I believe creativity, regardless of the form, is the conduit through which receptivity can be achieved. I agree with Peterson that creativity is hard work. It is a lot of work to sit down and say, “How can I prepare this sermon or lesson where the majority will listen and comprehend the message?” “How can I schedule my time as to be more available to the seekers?” Jesus taught in parables as a means to connect to the listener-to simplify the message. The relevant question is “Isn’t making a connection with the seeker the goal of the pastor or leader?” How can we possibly engage in spiritual direction without a proper connection? As pastors strive to impart the Word of God to seekers, creativity becomes an ongoing activity. Is this subversive activity? Sure.
I like Columbo but Jessica Fletcher, a fictional character, featured in the series, Murder, She Wrote, is one of my favorite solvers of crimes because of the creative way that she does it. She is a poet in my opinion. Although she is an author of mystery books, her demeanor does not boast. She approaches crime solving as an everyday occurrence—offering assistance where needed. Jessica can pleasantly uncover the guilt of someone whom she has befriended prior to the crime and they will thank her at the end of the movie. The secret to her success is that she connects with individuals in a non-threatening way. When she confronts them about their guilt, they are caught off guard. If we impart the Word of God in a fresh non-threatening way, maybe more seekers will thank us as they repent of their sin and become followers of Christ.
2. More often than not I have discovered that when I can’t fix a problem/person/program, it may have to stay broken and I must look for alternatives. My mother used to say, “Child you can’t fix everything. Some things will have to stay broken.” God is the Creator and ultimate fixer of everything. When I am confronted with people, problems or programs that I cannot fix, I point it in the direction of the Holy Spirit—prayer. I look for God in the midst of it all. Perhaps, I was trying to do it in my own power. The bottom line is, the fixing may not come through me. My job may be one of learning how to live with brokenness and to teach others to do the same. Following the direction of the Holy Spirit becomes paramount when dealing with brokenness. I yield to it.
3. Being “unbusy,” subversive, & apocalyptic mean being creative to me as a Christian leader. As Peterson wrote, these three are vital in the pastor’s ministry. When we become available (unbusy), then we can uncover what is at the core and plant the seed of the Spirit (subversive) in order to reveal what God has in store for his people (apocalyptic). All of this takes place utilizing creative means. As leaders we must become unshackled from the things of the world that keep us from meeting the spiritual needs of the people and even ourselves. What do you think?
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Psalm
correction- I ment to say "sabath was made for man, not man for the Sabath" Jesus trying to teach us not to be too legalistic about the Sabath.
I wrote this a while ago and I'll post it now.
A PSALM OF PRAISE
How wonderful Lord you are to me
Thank you Lord for my job, my family and my Church
Thank you God that you are always with us
In our loneliness and in our Joys
in our sorrow over loves one's death and in the birth of a new born child
Thank you God that you know us through and through
You know our past and love us anyway
You know our present and are ever so patient
You know our future and we ask you to lead us in Your Way
God of Heaven and Eath
Thank you for Your Love.
I wrote this a while ago and I'll post it now.
A PSALM OF PRAISE
How wonderful Lord you are to me
Thank you Lord for my job, my family and my Church
Thank you God that you are always with us
In our loneliness and in our Joys
in our sorrow over loves one's death and in the birth of a new born child
Thank you God that you know us through and through
You know our past and love us anyway
You know our present and are ever so patient
You know our future and we ask you to lead us in Your Way
God of Heaven and Eath
Thank you for Your Love.
REST
Calhoun says "God created us in his image. God is a God who works and then rests. " I am like 'Martha', a task oriented person who likes to get things done, yet on sunday, I allow the house to be as it is, (even if it is messy). I allow myself to take a nap. Once a year I go on a women's retreat (sep)to reenergize before a busy school year. In my car I've allowyed a time for God to speak to me, while driving. A time of silence from the radeo and other distractions. Yes we live in such a busy and loud age, I feel I need to be deligent and plan a time of rest. My parents would not buy anything on a sunday. I know 'man was made for the Sabath and nor the Sabath for man', so I'm not hard on myself if I need to buy somehting on a Sunday, But I do know that resting is good for me, my body needs it and it is a time to get close to God. It should not be the only time to get close to God, but for me at least it is a time to get with God's people. I need to be intentional about rest and follow the command of keeping the Sabath. I try adn encourage our paster to take a day off, during the week adn make that his
Sabath since her works on Sundays. Moments of quiet and reading during the day also become a time of rest for me. Watching nature is very relaxing. Playing with children and having fun also reenergizes me. I have done one day silent retreat and am looking forward to expanding that time to a full weekend of contemplation and silence to commune with God.Thanks for listening to my thoughts.
Lydia
Sabath since her works on Sundays. Moments of quiet and reading during the day also become a time of rest for me. Watching nature is very relaxing. Playing with children and having fun also reenergizes me. I have done one day silent retreat and am looking forward to expanding that time to a full weekend of contemplation and silence to commune with God.Thanks for listening to my thoughts.
Lydia
worship
Worship to me is a much larger concept than what we do on a sunday morning in a church. Worship is part of our lives as we commune with God in any setting. I love nature, and at times I can worhsip better by the lake or under a pine tree than on a sunday morning. Worship is not passive, nor is it necessarily active.
I'll go now to the worhip we do on Sunday morning at Lime Mennonite Chruch. We sing songs, read scripture, listen to the Paster give a sermon, study God's word and most of all fellowship with one another. At LMC there is a sence of belonging to a family. Everyone cares about the other and genuinely is ready to give a hand if needed. The community of believers who love God, love one another and want to serve the world is great. I am on the spiritual council and we are praying that God would show us how to minister to our community in specific ways and in ways that God has already equiped us to do. Please pray with us for guidance and wisdom.
I'll go now to the worhip we do on Sunday morning at Lime Mennonite Chruch. We sing songs, read scripture, listen to the Paster give a sermon, study God's word and most of all fellowship with one another. At LMC there is a sence of belonging to a family. Everyone cares about the other and genuinely is ready to give a hand if needed. The community of believers who love God, love one another and want to serve the world is great. I am on the spiritual council and we are praying that God would show us how to minister to our community in specific ways and in ways that God has already equiped us to do. Please pray with us for guidance and wisdom.
Introduction
Hello everyone. I am sorry that it seems that I am the last in our group to introduce myself to all of you. It took me a while but with Dr. Nisley's help I am on and can now communicate with all of you. My name is Lydia Kuttab Brenneman. I am a Christian Palestinian, born in Bethlehem and lived in Jerusalem. Now I live with my husban and our three boys (Nowyoung men) in Saint Marys, Ohio. I studies for about 3 years at the AMBS Mennonite Seminary in Elkhart, IN, but the 3 hour drive got to be too much and I had already taken all the summer and on-line classes I could in Pastorial Care and Counceling. So after prayer and visiting Winebrenner, I transfered and will hopefully finish my Masters in Family Ministry at the end of this summer, 2008. My husband and our family attent Lima Mennonite Church. I have grown up with varying denomination, including the Nazereens, Chruch of God (Charistmatic), and Plymth Brethern. I have visited many denominations and seen a variety of worship styles. Both my parents came out of the Greek Orthodox Church in the Middle East.
My goal for this course is to grow in the knowledge and wisdom of God and to allow the Holy Spirit to do it's work in my to transform me into the image of Jesus Christ my Lord.
I love on line courses because we get to share with one another our ideas, new thoughts we are learning as well as what is happening in our lives. I look forward to recieving council from all of you. I am taking Spiritual Formation at the same time that I am taking this class of Spiritual Direction. May God continue to work in my life.
My goal for this course is to grow in the knowledge and wisdom of God and to allow the Holy Spirit to do it's work in my to transform me into the image of Jesus Christ my Lord.
I love on line courses because we get to share with one another our ideas, new thoughts we are learning as well as what is happening in our lives. I look forward to recieving council from all of you. I am taking Spiritual Formation at the same time that I am taking this class of Spiritual Direction. May God continue to work in my life.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Spiritual Direction Retreat Update! [Posted by Dr. Nissley]
Date: February 29-March 2
[The date has been established with most of the class providing their preference and schedule logistics.]
Place: TBA Soon!
[I am searching for a retreat center located midway for the class to travel to in the snowy winter weather.]
Cost: TBA!
Purpose: Experience and process of individual & group spiritual direction.
Date: February 29-March 2
[The date has been established with most of the class providing their preference and schedule logistics.]
Place: TBA Soon!
[I am searching for a retreat center located midway for the class to travel to in the snowy winter weather.]
Cost: TBA!
Purpose: Experience and process of individual & group spiritual direction.
Monday, January 21, 2008
Session #2, "Exploring the Problem and Adventure of Spiritual Direction"
[Reflections from Eugene Peterson's text] (Posted by Dr. Nissley)
1) Peterson provided the launch pad for my doctoral dissertation on spiritual formation. Please post any general comments or questions related to Peterson's text. One of my favorite sections is, "The Assumptions of Subversives" (pp. 34-37). Who is your favorite spy, detective, or anarchist that you utilize in developing your leadership style? [My detective is Columbo, he fumbles around dealing with "I got this problem, could you help me figure it out? I attempt to distract and through people/students out of their norm/rut to possibly embrace another world/perspective/kingdom in our lives & ministry.]
While Death lends a Hand was in the planning stages, Levinson and Link decided that Columbo should have a dilapidated car to fit his personality. Falk resisted this idea. Columbo already had the wife, the cigar and the raincoat. That was enough. No more gimmicks were needed. Peter looked at cars on the Universal backlot there was every make and model imaginable he did not like any of them. It was the day before they were to start shooting way at the back "I just saw the nose of a car sticking out", it didn’t even run, it did not have an engine but Falk said "This is the one".The car was the closest thing the series had to a regular supporting player. It would appear in most of the episodes. Twice the car was involved in accidents: a fender-bender at the beginning of A Matter of Honor and a spectacular collision with speeding police cars in Make me a perfect Murder. In several episodes, the car serves as a rich source of humor Short Fuse, Etude in Black, Negative reaction.After Columbo ended its NBC run, Falk remained convinced that the car was safely stored on the Universal backlot where he first recognized the automobile that must belong to Lieutenant Columbo. When ABC announced plans to revive Columbo in 1988, Link discovered that Universal had sold the car. Parties in Florida and San Diego claimed to have the original Peugeot. The car was found in Ohio.
CAR TRIVIA
Sent to us by Ted KerinQuestion 1. What is Columbo's NEW license plate number?Question 2. What kind of car does Columbo drive?Question 3. How many of Columbo's model of car does he claim are in the USA?Question 4. Where is the cap to the gas tank in Columbo's car?Question 5. What kind of tires does Columbo put on his car?Picture sent to us by Nico Trenti
MEMORABLE EXCHANGES ABOUT COLUMBO'S CAR
Any Old Port in a Storm ( 1973 )Valet: Boy you sure don't see many of these things around.Columbo: I've got over 100,000 miles on it. You take care of your car, it'll take care of you.Candidate for Crime ( 1973 )Policeman: You ever consider getting another car?Columbo: I've got another car. My wife drives it. But that's nothing special just transportation.A friend in Deed ( 1974 )Charlie Shoup ( used car salesman ): Yes, indeed. It's a real honey. You know we don't get to see many of these around anymore - especially in this condition.Columbo: Well, I try to take good care of it.
Q. What is the make, model and year of that old wreck Peter Falk drives in the "Columbo TV movies"? A. Like the 70-year-old Falk himself, that beat-up vehicle on Columbo seems to get better with age. It's a 1959 Peugeot convertible, Model 403. Only 504 were produced in France, and Falk's production company owns two (the second is used as a backup car). Despite their dilapidated appearance, the cars are treated with kid gloves.
During location shooting around Los Angeles, the dusty gray autos are carefully transported on trail-ers. Incidentally, last month's ABC movie "A Trace of Murder", which marked the 25th year on TV for Columbo, co-starred Peter Falk's real-life wife, Shera Danese, 47, as the murder suspect's wife.For more information on Columbo's Car please visit the Scrapbook
[Columbo's car was in Findlay, Ohio.]
2) Curing souls connects to the movement (fad?) of Christian counseling toward spiritual direction rather than only psychological/social methodology & skills. What happens when you can't fix a problem/person/program?
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader
*************************************************************************************
Calhoun chapter on "Open Myself to God"
[Work through this section of Calhoun during the next two weeks, some of this may be review from the Spiritual Formation course.]
My suggestion is to work on one foci--simplicity, which will open your schedule for the other areas to emerge. Simplicity is what Rodney Clapp discussed in his Introduction to the Peterson text (p.12), staying in one place and connecting to the kingdom. We see this pattern in Jesus' ministry, to launch the Kingdom-he stayed in a small place to train his disciples rather developing a campaign to conquer, he trained his "Kingdom Commandos" to be subversive in a small training area. Simplicity opens the door to the complex, profound, and beauty.
Activity: Clean out a closet, room, desk, file cabinet, or corner of your backyard and only place in it what is spiritually edifying or beautiful. I am clearing out a corner of our backyard to develop beauty. Today, a bush went to the firewood pile. We can have too much stuff, plants, bushes, furniture. . . a therapeutic exercise for overwhelmed ADD/ADHD is clean out the clutter of their homes and lives. Spiritual direction is the process of clearing out the clutter to hear God more clearly and to experience the beauty of holiness--lack of clutter. Holiness, spiritual disciplines, and spiritual formation is about being uncluttered (simplicity), unbusy (kairos time, the right or opportune time), and open (receptivity) in God's presence. In a frenetic society, perhaps we all have to deal with SDL (Simplicity Deficit Lifestyle).
[Reflections from Eugene Peterson's text] (Posted by Dr. Nissley)
1) Peterson provided the launch pad for my doctoral dissertation on spiritual formation. Please post any general comments or questions related to Peterson's text. One of my favorite sections is, "The Assumptions of Subversives" (pp. 34-37). Who is your favorite spy, detective, or anarchist that you utilize in developing your leadership style? [My detective is Columbo, he fumbles around dealing with "I got this problem, could you help me figure it out? I attempt to distract and through people/students out of their norm/rut to possibly embrace another world/perspective/kingdom in our lives & ministry.]
While Death lends a Hand was in the planning stages, Levinson and Link decided that Columbo should have a dilapidated car to fit his personality. Falk resisted this idea. Columbo already had the wife, the cigar and the raincoat. That was enough. No more gimmicks were needed. Peter looked at cars on the Universal backlot there was every make and model imaginable he did not like any of them. It was the day before they were to start shooting way at the back "I just saw the nose of a car sticking out", it didn’t even run, it did not have an engine but Falk said "This is the one".The car was the closest thing the series had to a regular supporting player. It would appear in most of the episodes. Twice the car was involved in accidents: a fender-bender at the beginning of A Matter of Honor and a spectacular collision with speeding police cars in Make me a perfect Murder. In several episodes, the car serves as a rich source of humor Short Fuse, Etude in Black, Negative reaction.After Columbo ended its NBC run, Falk remained convinced that the car was safely stored on the Universal backlot where he first recognized the automobile that must belong to Lieutenant Columbo. When ABC announced plans to revive Columbo in 1988, Link discovered that Universal had sold the car. Parties in Florida and San Diego claimed to have the original Peugeot. The car was found in Ohio.
CAR TRIVIA
Sent to us by Ted KerinQuestion 1. What is Columbo's NEW license plate number?Question 2. What kind of car does Columbo drive?Question 3. How many of Columbo's model of car does he claim are in the USA?Question 4. Where is the cap to the gas tank in Columbo's car?Question 5. What kind of tires does Columbo put on his car?Picture sent to us by Nico Trenti
MEMORABLE EXCHANGES ABOUT COLUMBO'S CAR
Any Old Port in a Storm ( 1973 )Valet: Boy you sure don't see many of these things around.Columbo: I've got over 100,000 miles on it. You take care of your car, it'll take care of you.Candidate for Crime ( 1973 )Policeman: You ever consider getting another car?Columbo: I've got another car. My wife drives it. But that's nothing special just transportation.A friend in Deed ( 1974 )Charlie Shoup ( used car salesman ): Yes, indeed. It's a real honey. You know we don't get to see many of these around anymore - especially in this condition.Columbo: Well, I try to take good care of it.
Q. What is the make, model and year of that old wreck Peter Falk drives in the "Columbo TV movies"? A. Like the 70-year-old Falk himself, that beat-up vehicle on Columbo seems to get better with age. It's a 1959 Peugeot convertible, Model 403. Only 504 were produced in France, and Falk's production company owns two (the second is used as a backup car). Despite their dilapidated appearance, the cars are treated with kid gloves.
During location shooting around Los Angeles, the dusty gray autos are carefully transported on trail-ers. Incidentally, last month's ABC movie "A Trace of Murder", which marked the 25th year on TV for Columbo, co-starred Peter Falk's real-life wife, Shera Danese, 47, as the murder suspect's wife.For more information on Columbo's Car please visit the Scrapbook
[Columbo's car was in Findlay, Ohio.]
2) Curing souls connects to the movement (fad?) of Christian counseling toward spiritual direction rather than only psychological/social methodology & skills. What happens when you can't fix a problem/person/program?
3) What does being "unbusy'', subversive, & apocalyptic mean to you as a Christian leader
*************************************************************************************
Calhoun chapter on "Open Myself to God"
[Work through this section of Calhoun during the next two weeks, some of this may be review from the Spiritual Formation course.]
My suggestion is to work on one foci--simplicity, which will open your schedule for the other areas to emerge. Simplicity is what Rodney Clapp discussed in his Introduction to the Peterson text (p.12), staying in one place and connecting to the kingdom. We see this pattern in Jesus' ministry, to launch the Kingdom-he stayed in a small place to train his disciples rather developing a campaign to conquer, he trained his "Kingdom Commandos" to be subversive in a small training area. Simplicity opens the door to the complex, profound, and beauty.
Activity: Clean out a closet, room, desk, file cabinet, or corner of your backyard and only place in it what is spiritually edifying or beautiful. I am clearing out a corner of our backyard to develop beauty. Today, a bush went to the firewood pile. We can have too much stuff, plants, bushes, furniture. . . a therapeutic exercise for overwhelmed ADD/ADHD is clean out the clutter of their homes and lives. Spiritual direction is the process of clearing out the clutter to hear God more clearly and to experience the beauty of holiness--lack of clutter. Holiness, spiritual disciplines, and spiritual formation is about being uncluttered (simplicity), unbusy (kairos time, the right or opportune time), and open (receptivity) in God's presence. In a frenetic society, perhaps we all have to deal with SDL (Simplicity Deficit Lifestyle).
Blog Protocol: Please feel free to comment and discuss issues that arise from our posts. In other words, you may ask questions, disagree, affirm, or ponder one another's posts.
Introduction
My name is Ben and I am a bi-vocational minister for New Covenant Baptist Church of Toledo, an American Baptist church. By profession I am a pipe fitter for General Motors in Toledo. As a child I was raised in the Apostolic charismatic tradition but later became a Baptist minister in the year 1986. I graduated from Defiance College with a B.A. in Christian Education in 1976 and am presently enrolled in the Master of Art in Family Ministry program at Winebrenner. I am not certain as to how my denominational affiliations might affect our journey together, but I am certain that through them God has given me a greater appreciation and respect for other persuasions of the faith. I have been serving there as pastor for the past 13 years. For me the vocation has served as a process for enhancing my relationship with people, God and self. I have come to realize that in order to be able to develop healthy godly relationship with family, church and community, there must be a spiritual balance. Spiritual direction can provide that balance for us that we need to successfully continue in ministry.
I intend on using this class as a process for getting closer to the heart of God and better realizing my own spiritual self-worth. I am praying that this class will help me to experience more of God and enhance my ability to balance numerous relationships and effectively deal with distractions so that I might come to better know Him and who I am in Him.
I am presently looking at the possibilities of retiring from General Motors within the year 2008. Retiring will allow me more time to devote to the ministry, school as well as doing other things that I most enjoy like riding my Harley Davidson “Streetglide” My goal is to continue in pastoral ministry but with a stronger emphasis on the “performing arts, youth ministry, missions and spiritual direction as the primary focuses for expressing and experiencing God’s love.
I intend on using this class as a process for getting closer to the heart of God and better realizing my own spiritual self-worth. I am praying that this class will help me to experience more of God and enhance my ability to balance numerous relationships and effectively deal with distractions so that I might come to better know Him and who I am in Him.
I am presently looking at the possibilities of retiring from General Motors within the year 2008. Retiring will allow me more time to devote to the ministry, school as well as doing other things that I most enjoy like riding my Harley Davidson “Streetglide” My goal is to continue in pastoral ministry but with a stronger emphasis on the “performing arts, youth ministry, missions and spiritual direction as the primary focuses for expressing and experiencing God’s love.
Personal Intro and Calhoun Part One
My name is Bill. I'm recently engaged to a beautiful woman named Meghan. I have been serving at the United Church of God in Harrisburg for the past five years, primary as youth pastor and secondly as worship leader. I also work at Starbucks as a barista and teach piano lessons. I am enrolled in the first cohort of the MACD program, and hence why I'm the one who lives so far away! In March I will conclude my ministry at United to seek mentoring and development from other growing ministries. Spiritual Formation is a passion of mine, as well as worship, so it is only fitting that spiritual formation is my degree concentration. As for goals for this course I hope to continue to develop my own spiritual discipline as well as learn how to coach and counsel others in their journey toward Christ. My vision is that I can be a solid resource and help to those who want a deeper and lasting relationship with God by teaching others tools they can use for spiritual formation as well as helping them explore their own lives in relation to the life God has in store for them. Another vision of mine is that solid Christian spiritual formation nourishes the regular worship of a congregation, helping people to worship more freely and genuinely on Sunday because of the disciplines they practice through the whole week.
On Calhoun
1) One of the most common words in the New Testament translated to "worship" is proskuneo, which has this idea of bowing before God, adoring him for his splendor, his sovereignty, and his power. The elders proskuneo at the throne of the Lamb in Revelation 5:14. Worship also has the idea of regular service of God, of constancy in sacrificing oneself to the will of God. Romans 12:1 reminds us to offer our bodies as "living sacrifices ... for this is your spiritual act of worship" (NIV). Spiritual disciplines guide us outside the corporate worship settings to help us become living sacrifices, daily offering ourselves, our wishes, wants, desires, pride, sinfulness, and claim to anything to God. Worship in most of my ministry contexts has been limited to an hour on Sunday morning. Hymns and choruses are sung, a sermon is heard, prayers are prayed, but the obligation beyond that hour seems minimal. My experience on the other hand tells me that God wants more from us, namely daily denying my selfish desires, taking up my cross and following Jesus (Matthew 16:24). Perhaps the reason I desire so greatly to help others in spiritual formation is just that: passionate Christians are formed because they live lives of worship.
2) I have often thought about this issue. It seems that the congregation I have been part of desires greatly to do much for Christ, but rarely makes the space to just be with Christ. We have filled every weekend day with rehearsals and other activities that flow in the already excessive activities that people do throughout the week. It is no wonder that I myself have repeatedly run dry for lack of sufficient time to rest and renew. The Sabbath is a special type of rest, one where we let go of life's stressors and remember our purpose and our place in the Kingdom of God. One of the most convicting things I have read was on how pastors must keep the Sabbath, a section from Eugene Peterson's book Working the Angles. My recollection (the book is packed up since I'm moving out of my office) is that he demanded that a day of true recreation is observed in honor of the fourth commandment, and by recreation is is most certainly a re-creation, where we rediscover ourselves in our relationship to God and realize what it means to be a new creation in Christ. We move from being Martha's to Mary's, who sit at the feet of Jesus and do what is better. I find it interesting that the result of Mary's sitting at the feet of Jesus is that "it will not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:39-42, NIV). I think it could be perhaps a very viable "ministry" of the contemporary church to exhort families to practice sabbath. Any more, I believe it would be wise for any church to not allow any activity other than worship services to take place on Sunday and actively and consistently encourage the congregation to spend the day in recreation with God and with friends and family.
3) Oh Lord, you are worthy!
No one else deserves praise.
When I was destitute, lost in my way,
You gave yourself, paid the cost, provided grace!
When I was hopeless, alone, wanting a change,
You conquered death, removed the stone, gave me victory!
O God, the everlasting God,
I will worship you in the morning,
When I rise I will sing to you songs of thanksgiving,
As I work, I will honor you in all things,
As I lie down, I will again give you praise for another day.
In my sleep I will rest in you.
Teach me your Word and Your ways,
Help me to follow you in all things.
May I run after your love and never grow weary,
And may I praise your name for unnumbered days.
On Calhoun
1) One of the most common words in the New Testament translated to "worship" is proskuneo, which has this idea of bowing before God, adoring him for his splendor, his sovereignty, and his power. The elders proskuneo at the throne of the Lamb in Revelation 5:14. Worship also has the idea of regular service of God, of constancy in sacrificing oneself to the will of God. Romans 12:1 reminds us to offer our bodies as "living sacrifices ... for this is your spiritual act of worship" (NIV). Spiritual disciplines guide us outside the corporate worship settings to help us become living sacrifices, daily offering ourselves, our wishes, wants, desires, pride, sinfulness, and claim to anything to God. Worship in most of my ministry contexts has been limited to an hour on Sunday morning. Hymns and choruses are sung, a sermon is heard, prayers are prayed, but the obligation beyond that hour seems minimal. My experience on the other hand tells me that God wants more from us, namely daily denying my selfish desires, taking up my cross and following Jesus (Matthew 16:24). Perhaps the reason I desire so greatly to help others in spiritual formation is just that: passionate Christians are formed because they live lives of worship.
2) I have often thought about this issue. It seems that the congregation I have been part of desires greatly to do much for Christ, but rarely makes the space to just be with Christ. We have filled every weekend day with rehearsals and other activities that flow in the already excessive activities that people do throughout the week. It is no wonder that I myself have repeatedly run dry for lack of sufficient time to rest and renew. The Sabbath is a special type of rest, one where we let go of life's stressors and remember our purpose and our place in the Kingdom of God. One of the most convicting things I have read was on how pastors must keep the Sabbath, a section from Eugene Peterson's book Working the Angles. My recollection (the book is packed up since I'm moving out of my office) is that he demanded that a day of true recreation is observed in honor of the fourth commandment, and by recreation is is most certainly a re-creation, where we rediscover ourselves in our relationship to God and realize what it means to be a new creation in Christ. We move from being Martha's to Mary's, who sit at the feet of Jesus and do what is better. I find it interesting that the result of Mary's sitting at the feet of Jesus is that "it will not be taken away from her" (Luke 10:39-42, NIV). I think it could be perhaps a very viable "ministry" of the contemporary church to exhort families to practice sabbath. Any more, I believe it would be wise for any church to not allow any activity other than worship services to take place on Sunday and actively and consistently encourage the congregation to spend the day in recreation with God and with friends and family.
3) Oh Lord, you are worthy!
No one else deserves praise.
When I was destitute, lost in my way,
You gave yourself, paid the cost, provided grace!
When I was hopeless, alone, wanting a change,
You conquered death, removed the stone, gave me victory!
O God, the everlasting God,
I will worship you in the morning,
When I rise I will sing to you songs of thanksgiving,
As I work, I will honor you in all things,
As I lie down, I will again give you praise for another day.
In my sleep I will rest in you.
Teach me your Word and Your ways,
Help me to follow you in all things.
May I run after your love and never grow weary,
And may I praise your name for unnumbered days.
Class Introduction - Spiritual Direction
Hello, Class Members of Spiritual Direction!
My name is Krista Hutchings. I am from the Bowling Green, Ohio area. Originally though, I grew up on the East Coast, Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington D.C. My husband and I have two daughters, one has left the nest, and one on the way.
My focus area is MAFM. I am at the halfway point in my study at Winebrenner. It has truly been a journey, as I have discovered my core spiritual gifts, and how God has revealed them to me.
In the Spiritual Direction Class, I am seeking more of an understanding and direction of Spiritual Disciplines. A prayer life that is in accord with God, providing a deeper understanding of his word, and one that is refined for the Glory of God.
Grace and Peace, Krista Hutchings
My name is Krista Hutchings. I am from the Bowling Green, Ohio area. Originally though, I grew up on the East Coast, Baltimore, Maryland, and Washington D.C. My husband and I have two daughters, one has left the nest, and one on the way.
My focus area is MAFM. I am at the halfway point in my study at Winebrenner. It has truly been a journey, as I have discovered my core spiritual gifts, and how God has revealed them to me.
In the Spiritual Direction Class, I am seeking more of an understanding and direction of Spiritual Disciplines. A prayer life that is in accord with God, providing a deeper understanding of his word, and one that is refined for the Glory of God.
Grace and Peace, Krista Hutchings
Calhoun, Part One, "Worship"
1) Worship tradition, experience & biblical worship perspective
Traditionally for me, worship in the context of the African American experience(s) has been an expression of giving thanks unto God for having “brought us from a mighty long way.” Worship that gave “true thanks” was to be celebrative and highly spirited and anything less was and still is in some circles, is not considered as worship. Thanking God what he “done done” for you would surely encourage God to do more for you. It is out of this context of worship that I frequently minister, but with a new understanding that worship is about praising God for who he is and thanking for what he has done. Three weeks ago I expressed to my congregation that erroneously we thank God for who he is and praise him for what he does. Many things or people can be the object of our worship. Even worship itself can become the object of our worship as we worship the way that it makes us feel, or in the context of the particular styles that Calhoun mentions like traditional, contemporary, liturgical and emerging. Paul said in Romans 1:25, They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator - who is forever praised. Amen. (NIV) True worship places God at the apex of all that we value and allows us join God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in godly celebrations for all that we have to be thankful for, including and most imporatant, the redemptive work of God in the world through his Son Jesus. The culmination of such celebration is witness in the life of believers by partaking in the Lord's Supper.
2. Sabbath
Sabbath is a time for me to refocus who I am and whose I am in Christ Jesus as a new creation. It is my time join with God in celebrating his redemptive power and love for the world. God created us to be both an object and reflection of his love. It is through worship that I can express my appreciation towards God for the life, death, resurrection and return of his Son Jesus the Christ. The many things that I do everyday rob me of both energy and focus and Sabbath helps me to keep the main thing the main thing. God has given us the Sabbath to save us from over doing it. My vision for ministry, within the context of pastoral ministry, is to develop corporate worship experiences that will facilitate and teach people how to make worship a lifestyle and passionately pursue and value God above all using music, prayer, the Word, fellowship and the giving of time, talents and financial resources as instruments for expressing that value.
3.A Psalm of Rest
Oh how wonderful and great is the God of my salvation.
He rescues me from the enemy of time and ushers me into his rest
The stars in the heavens, the moon and the sun stand still in his peace
The waves of the sea rise and bow down as his Spirit hovers above
The clouds part to reveal the Almighty God sitting upon his throne
Come see the Lord who makes men to lay still in his peace.
Rejoice oh my soul and dance as the heart provides the rhythm
Make glad the soul of my King for he alone is to be praised for the many Sabbaths of my soul.
Traditionally for me, worship in the context of the African American experience(s) has been an expression of giving thanks unto God for having “brought us from a mighty long way.” Worship that gave “true thanks” was to be celebrative and highly spirited and anything less was and still is in some circles, is not considered as worship. Thanking God what he “done done” for you would surely encourage God to do more for you. It is out of this context of worship that I frequently minister, but with a new understanding that worship is about praising God for who he is and thanking for what he has done. Three weeks ago I expressed to my congregation that erroneously we thank God for who he is and praise him for what he does. Many things or people can be the object of our worship. Even worship itself can become the object of our worship as we worship the way that it makes us feel, or in the context of the particular styles that Calhoun mentions like traditional, contemporary, liturgical and emerging. Paul said in Romans 1:25, They exchanged the truth of God for a lie, and worshiped and served created things rather than the Creator - who is forever praised. Amen. (NIV) True worship places God at the apex of all that we value and allows us join God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit in godly celebrations for all that we have to be thankful for, including and most imporatant, the redemptive work of God in the world through his Son Jesus. The culmination of such celebration is witness in the life of believers by partaking in the Lord's Supper.
2. Sabbath
Sabbath is a time for me to refocus who I am and whose I am in Christ Jesus as a new creation. It is my time join with God in celebrating his redemptive power and love for the world. God created us to be both an object and reflection of his love. It is through worship that I can express my appreciation towards God for the life, death, resurrection and return of his Son Jesus the Christ. The many things that I do everyday rob me of both energy and focus and Sabbath helps me to keep the main thing the main thing. God has given us the Sabbath to save us from over doing it. My vision for ministry, within the context of pastoral ministry, is to develop corporate worship experiences that will facilitate and teach people how to make worship a lifestyle and passionately pursue and value God above all using music, prayer, the Word, fellowship and the giving of time, talents and financial resources as instruments for expressing that value.
3.A Psalm of Rest
Oh how wonderful and great is the God of my salvation.
He rescues me from the enemy of time and ushers me into his rest
The stars in the heavens, the moon and the sun stand still in his peace
The waves of the sea rise and bow down as his Spirit hovers above
The clouds part to reveal the Almighty God sitting upon his throne
Come see the Lord who makes men to lay still in his peace.
Rejoice oh my soul and dance as the heart provides the rhythm
Make glad the soul of my King for he alone is to be praised for the many Sabbaths of my soul.
My reflection of "Worship"- Calhoun Part 1
1)
"Worship" - is generally thought of as a regular engagement with a worshiping community. We find in scripture, that truly worshiping God is with our whole heart, mind, and soul. "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me" (Matthew 15:8). Many times our minds wander, and we think of our agenda's, our to do list. We may be physically worshiping, but in our hearts we are disengaged with God. Calhoun states, a "True worship of God happens when we put God first in our lives." Yes, we can glorify God with of our discipline, willpower, and our spiritual giftedness, but if we do not listen to what God says first, we can't be transformed in Christ. So what is really at the core of worship? It is to seek, to know, and to love God as he created us to do. "Create in me a clean heart , O God, and put a new and right spirit within me"(Psalm 51:10).
My experience of worship and my spiritual formation, literally began at birth. My father is a retired Methodist minister, and my mother a Diaconal minister of music. I had the opportunity of living and sharing in many parishes (as Methodist's do)! I was exposed to many walks of life and worship styles from the inner city of Baltimore, Maryland, to the suburbs in Bexley, Ohio. My roots and membership are with the United Methodist Church, but I have also experienced worship in the Disciples of Christ, Chrisitian Church, and presently the Episcopal denomination. In these differing worship experiences we find method, and holiness of scripture, absence of creed, and the common book of prayer. Although each church may have a different worship style, history, tradition, and literacy story of the Bible there is most importantly a common thread of the Blessed Trinity. It is the core of our heart in Jesus Christ and our worship.
2)
God's intention of the Creation Ordinance of Sabbath (Genesis 2:1-2), is reflected in the Fouth Commandment,"Remember the Sabbath day, by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall do no work"( Exodus 20:8-10). This day was given to us by God to restore our bodies and soul. How unfortunate this is as we are compelled to agend's and schedules in our lives today. Have we scheduled God out of our lives. Unfortunately this is reflected in our life styles. A style of "me" first, and not of God first. Even for those of us who are entrenched in the teaching and leading of a church congreation, we find ourselves wrapped up in what program is next, and what event is to come. Even in this Godly effort, we lose our focus, and balance. I believe that God truly wants us to find that balance, that ulitimately leads to the Fruit of the Spirit, and of God.
I envision leading a congregation in the practice of keeping the Sabbath holy by encouraging time set aside for an intimate relationship with God and family, and the comfort in resting with God one day a week. To stop, rest and reflect upon who and what work is for. A time for us and a time for our loved ones. This encouragement would be reflected by my actions, as well as remembering to trust God in our daily concerns.
MY HEART OF WORSHIP
Almighty God, I praise and glorify your name.
For you are an awesome God.
I seek your mercies and comfort, O God.
Omniscient God, you know what my heart yearns for,
and what is your will.
You are my rock and my refuge, I lean upon you.
For you are the Light and the Way.
"Worship" - is generally thought of as a regular engagement with a worshiping community. We find in scripture, that truly worshiping God is with our whole heart, mind, and soul. "These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me" (Matthew 15:8). Many times our minds wander, and we think of our agenda's, our to do list. We may be physically worshiping, but in our hearts we are disengaged with God. Calhoun states, a "True worship of God happens when we put God first in our lives." Yes, we can glorify God with of our discipline, willpower, and our spiritual giftedness, but if we do not listen to what God says first, we can't be transformed in Christ. So what is really at the core of worship? It is to seek, to know, and to love God as he created us to do. "Create in me a clean heart , O God, and put a new and right spirit within me"(Psalm 51:10).
My experience of worship and my spiritual formation, literally began at birth. My father is a retired Methodist minister, and my mother a Diaconal minister of music. I had the opportunity of living and sharing in many parishes (as Methodist's do)! I was exposed to many walks of life and worship styles from the inner city of Baltimore, Maryland, to the suburbs in Bexley, Ohio. My roots and membership are with the United Methodist Church, but I have also experienced worship in the Disciples of Christ, Chrisitian Church, and presently the Episcopal denomination. In these differing worship experiences we find method, and holiness of scripture, absence of creed, and the common book of prayer. Although each church may have a different worship style, history, tradition, and literacy story of the Bible there is most importantly a common thread of the Blessed Trinity. It is the core of our heart in Jesus Christ and our worship.
2)
God's intention of the Creation Ordinance of Sabbath (Genesis 2:1-2), is reflected in the Fouth Commandment,"Remember the Sabbath day, by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall do no work"( Exodus 20:8-10). This day was given to us by God to restore our bodies and soul. How unfortunate this is as we are compelled to agend's and schedules in our lives today. Have we scheduled God out of our lives. Unfortunately this is reflected in our life styles. A style of "me" first, and not of God first. Even for those of us who are entrenched in the teaching and leading of a church congreation, we find ourselves wrapped up in what program is next, and what event is to come. Even in this Godly effort, we lose our focus, and balance. I believe that God truly wants us to find that balance, that ulitimately leads to the Fruit of the Spirit, and of God.
I envision leading a congregation in the practice of keeping the Sabbath holy by encouraging time set aside for an intimate relationship with God and family, and the comfort in resting with God one day a week. To stop, rest and reflect upon who and what work is for. A time for us and a time for our loved ones. This encouragement would be reflected by my actions, as well as remembering to trust God in our daily concerns.
MY HEART OF WORSHIP
Almighty God, I praise and glorify your name.
For you are an awesome God.
I seek your mercies and comfort, O God.
Omniscient God, you know what my heart yearns for,
and what is your will.
You are my rock and my refuge, I lean upon you.
For you are the Light and the Way.
Sunday, January 20, 2008
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Response to Worship, Calhaun pt. 1
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Introduction, Response to Worship
My name is Kimberly McCown-Jones. I am a first year MATS/MDIV student at WTS. I am taking this class because I feel that there is a definite need for some spiritual direction in my life. My husband has been very ill and unable to work since July. He has had six eye surgeries and is currently blind in his right eye. All of this has put a terrible strain on the entire family. I have begun to feel "spiritually stale." My prayers seem hollow. God seems so far away. I feel spiritually "out of sync." I am expecting to reconnect spiritually with the God of my salvation. I would like to learn new techniques for worship, prayer, and meditation. I am open to what God wants to do for me, through me, and with me during this trimester.
1) Define worship from Scripture, your experience, your church tradition.
When I think about worship, two Scriptures come to mind: "[...]Believe Me, woman, an hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know. We worship what we do know, because salvation is from the Jews. But an hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the FAther in spirit and truth. Yes, the Father wants such people to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth" (Jn4:21b-24 [CSB]); "Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship" (Ro12:1 [CSB]).I have had a variety of religious experiences concerning worship. My spiritual journey was a very interesting one. I was raised for my first 10 years as a Methodist (CME), then I entered the Roman Catholic faith (13yrs), I then became LDS (mormon) (1yr), and then God saved me out of mormonism and I joined a Church of God (Cleveland, TN), later I joined a Baptist congregation (NBC). I am currently a member (8yrs) and an ordained elder, in the United Holy Church of America, Inc. It is the oldest African American, Pentecostal denomination in the United States, founded in 1868 in Method, North Carolina. As you can see from my "checkered" past, I have particpated in traditional, quiet, and reflective worship, as well as ecstatic, exuberant, and outward worship. I am most comfortable with the latter style. I would be considered mild, by Pentecostal standards, but I enjoy the liberty of self-expression (audible expression of praise,testimonies, uplifted hands, dancing, etc), the reverence of the Holy Spirit, and the operation of the gifts of the Spirit (tongues, prophecy, laying on of hands, healing, word of knowledge/word of wisdom, etc). I am very interested in the monasticism of the early Christians and the practice of Spiritual Rules. I am looking forward to a very informative and inspiring trimester.
2)Reflect upon Sabbath, what is God's intention with the creation ordinance (see Genesis 2:1-2), note this law is not about sin. How would you envision leading your congregation in practicing Sabbath?
I believe that we, as Christians, should follow God's example. He rested after six days of creating the world. We should rest from our labor. The Sabbath is blessed and holy according to Genesis 2. We honor the Sabbath by taking time out of our busy lives and pausing to rest, to praise, and to worship the God of all Creation. I have always tried to observe the Sabbath. As a child, I walked to church alone. My mother and brother did not attend church. When I began to work, I always set aside time for worship. I tried to avoid working on Sundays. If I had to work, I actively sought opportunities to worship during a mid-week or Sunday evening service, even if it meant uniting with other congregations. I am learning that observing the Sabbath does not have to be restricted to Saturday or Sunday alone. For clergy, Saturday and Sunday may seem like work and not rest. It is important that clergy members find their Sabbath rest also, which may require them to "think outside the box" concerning Sabbath. I believe any day can be set aside for Sabbath observance. If I were leading a congregation, I would stress the importance of family time. I would try to limit the amount of church programming on Sunday evenings. I love church and I enjoy church work; however, I think that many churches bombard members with programs which can take away from the true meaning of Sabbath. If we are not careful, our Sabbath can turn into another day of work.
3) Write a Psalm.
O Sovereign Lord,
I praise you for your glorious deeds,
I worship ou because you are holy and good.
Help me to cling to you in times of sorrow and despair.
Strengthen me when I am weak,
Help me in my unbelief.
I love you beacuse you first loved me.
I trust in you,
No other help I know
I will serve you all of my days,
I will follow you forevermore.
Posted by Kim at 9:44 AM 0 comments
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Introduction, Response to Worship
Response to Worship, Calhaun pt. 1
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Introduction, Response to Worship
My name is Kimberly McCown-Jones. I am a first year MATS/MDIV student at WTS. I am taking this class because I feel that there is a definite need for some spiritual direction in my life. My husband has been very ill and unable to work since July. He has had six eye surgeries and is currently blind in his right eye. All of this has put a terrible strain on the entire family. I have begun to feel "spiritually stale." My prayers seem hollow. God seems so far away. I feel spiritually "out of sync." I am expecting to reconnect spiritually with the God of my salvation. I would like to learn new techniques for worship, prayer, and meditation. I am open to what God wants to do for me, through me, and with me during this trimester.
1) Define worship from Scripture, your experience, your church tradition.
When I think about worship, two Scriptures come to mind: "[...]Believe Me, woman, an hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem. You Samaritans worship what you do not know. We worship what we do know, because salvation is from the Jews. But an hour is coming, and is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the FAther in spirit and truth. Yes, the Father wants such people to worship Him. God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth" (Jn4:21b-24 [CSB]); "Therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, I urge you to present your bodies as living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God; this is your spiritual worship" (Ro12:1 [CSB]).I have had a variety of religious experiences concerning worship. My spiritual journey was a very interesting one. I was raised for my first 10 years as a Methodist (CME), then I entered the Roman Catholic faith (13yrs), I then became LDS (mormon) (1yr), and then God saved me out of mormonism and I joined a Church of God (Cleveland, TN), later I joined a Baptist congregation (NBC). I am currently a member (8yrs) and an ordained elder, in the United Holy Church of America, Inc. It is the oldest African American, Pentecostal denomination in the United States, founded in 1868 in Method, North Carolina. As you can see from my "checkered" past, I have particpated in traditional, quiet, and reflective worship, as well as ecstatic, exuberant, and outward worship. I am most comfortable with the latter style. I would be considered mild, by Pentecostal standards, but I enjoy the liberty of self-expression (audible expression of praise,testimonies, uplifted hands, dancing, etc), the reverence of the Holy Spirit, and the operation of the gifts of the Spirit (tongues, prophecy, laying on of hands, healing, word of knowledge/word of wisdom, etc). I am very interested in the monasticism of the early Christians and the practice of Spiritual Rules. I am looking forward to a very informative and inspiring trimester.
2)Reflect upon Sabbath, what is God's intention with the creation ordinance (see Genesis 2:1-2), note this law is not about sin. How would you envision leading your congregation in practicing Sabbath?
I believe that we, as Christians, should follow God's example. He rested after six days of creating the world. We should rest from our labor. The Sabbath is blessed and holy according to Genesis 2. We honor the Sabbath by taking time out of our busy lives and pausing to rest, to praise, and to worship the God of all Creation. I have always tried to observe the Sabbath. As a child, I walked to church alone. My mother and brother did not attend church. When I began to work, I always set aside time for worship. I tried to avoid working on Sundays. If I had to work, I actively sought opportunities to worship during a mid-week or Sunday evening service, even if it meant uniting with other congregations. I am learning that observing the Sabbath does not have to be restricted to Saturday or Sunday alone. For clergy, Saturday and Sunday may seem like work and not rest. It is important that clergy members find their Sabbath rest also, which may require them to "think outside the box" concerning Sabbath. I believe any day can be set aside for Sabbath observance. If I were leading a congregation, I would stress the importance of family time. I would try to limit the amount of church programming on Sunday evenings. I love church and I enjoy church work; however, I think that many churches bombard members with programs which can take away from the true meaning of Sabbath. If we are not careful, our Sabbath can turn into another day of work.
3) Write a Psalm.
O Sovereign Lord,
I praise you for your glorious deeds,
I worship ou because you are holy and good.
Help me to cling to you in times of sorrow and despair.
Strengthen me when I am weak,
Help me in my unbelief.
I love you beacuse you first loved me.
I trust in you,
No other help I know
I will serve you all of my days,
I will follow you forevermore.
Posted by Kim at 9:44 AM 0 comments
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Introduction, Response to Worship
Friday, January 18, 2008
Calhoun, Part One, "Worship"
Hello Everyone,
My name is Arthur J. Battle and I am a Master of Divinity student in my 3rd year at Winebrenner. I originally came to Winebrenner as a M.A.T.S. student but enjoyed my 1st Trimester classes so much that I decided to go forward for the MDIV degree. I am taking this Spiritual Direction Class because this is an area of my Spiritual Walk that I would like to develop in enriching and growing my relationship with God and learning more about how I can help others in their Christian walk. Dr. Langston Bannister is one of my mentors who opened my eyes to Spiritual Direction through a powerful spiritual experience that I shared with him and a Spiritual Direction session that he lead me through, and it was after that Session that I prayed and decided to sign up for this Course.
1) Define worship from Scripture, your experience, your church tradition.
My Scripture reference for Worship comes from Psalm 150:6 - 6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. I believe that worship is giving God ultimate praise for Him just being God all by Himself. I believe that praising God is worshipping God and that it is more than just singing, dancing and praising in church (which is very important communally), but that it also is praising God through how we live our lives for Him. I believe that we should live out Psalm 150:6 because we are blessed to have breath in our bodies and are here for God’s purpose and his glory; therefore, we should praise and worship Him in our homes, on our jobs, in school, in our cars, wherever we are we should worship God in spirit and in truth with every aspect of our lives. I agree with Calhoun’s statement that “True worship of God happens when we put God first in our lives. When what God says matters more than what others say, and when loving God matters more than being loved.” This is a tough place to be at times because you can be all alone and isolated from others, but the love that God gives in this time of worship surpasses any feeling that I have had through any other relationship that I have been blessed to have.
I come from a National Baptist Convention background in a predominantly African-American church where we would sing songs but had been indoctrinated in not showing outer praise (dancing) except for singing, based upon the restrictive teaching of the founding Pastor. However, within the last 10 years our church has moved toward more of a high praise service with clapping, singing, dancing, and openness to the move of the Holy Spirit that has changed the Worship Service and experience at our church. There have been services where Pastor Smith has not preached because the worship of God was so high with the Holy Spirit being present that all those who were present could feel the move of God through the worship experience. I love these kind of services because it makes me reflect upon what it must have been like in Acts where the Apostles and others received the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues. I believe that it is only through true worship of God that we fully begin to understand who we are and who He is to us, for us and in us.
2) Reflect upon Sabbath, what is God's intention with this Creation Ordinance (see Genesis 2:1-2), note this law is not about sin. How would you envision leading your congregation in practicing Sabbath.
I believe that God’s intention with the Creation Ordinance of Sabbath is to have his creation commune with Him and Him alone. God worked the first 6 days to bring all that He sought to create into being, but on the 7th day He rested, indicating that we are to follow His lead. Isn’t it interesting and encouraging knowing that “rest” is a command and ordinance of God. Are we really following God the way that we should when we ignore this very important ordinance?
Exodus 20:8-10 tells us to keep the Sabbath holy, work for 6 days but the 7th days is a Sabbath to the Lord your God, and on that day you shall not do any work. I think that this concept is one that must be taught within churches today in order to get the congregation to truly understand the necessity of resting and communing with God as He directs. Many times in my own church our Sabbath is on Sunday, but usually for those in the Ministry this seems to be the busiest day and the day when everyone wants to bring their issues to Pastor and myself directly before or after Church Service. A better understanding of Sabbath would allow this day to be a day of corporate worship and praise, but more importantly of rest from issues that probably can wait until Monday, but because there is no concept of Sabbath then there is no self-discipline regarding resting “from all work” on the Sabbath. Calhoun’s statement that “the day God had given as a respite from work became simply another kind of work” is something that I can definitely testify too. I believe that the Sabbath is extremely important and I try to practice it as effectively as I can through the power of the Holy Spirit with my family. I believe that it is so important that when offered employment that may have required me to work on the Sabbath (Sunday for me) it factored heavily in my decision not to accept that employment. Sabbath is important to God and resting is an ordinance that He requires, therefore, the correct practice of this most important communing time with God must be taught and practiced spiritually.
3) Write a psalm describing your heart of worship.
O God, you are the Creator of all things.
You are the day that turns into night,
And the light that was and is forever.
You are awesome and worthy to be praised by all of your creation.
O God, I worship you with my entire being.
My mind worships you because it is only your will that it desires to do.
My body worships you because it is your temple made for public praise.
My heart worships you because it is the Holy of Holies where you commune with me as my Creator.
And my spirit worships you because it is the essence of who I am in you.
O God, I worship you with all that I am and all that I will become.
You love me more than I could ever love myself.
Your grace and mercy sustain me.
Please keep me in the hollow of your hand,
And allow my praise and worship to be pleasing in your sight.
My name is Arthur J. Battle and I am a Master of Divinity student in my 3rd year at Winebrenner. I originally came to Winebrenner as a M.A.T.S. student but enjoyed my 1st Trimester classes so much that I decided to go forward for the MDIV degree. I am taking this Spiritual Direction Class because this is an area of my Spiritual Walk that I would like to develop in enriching and growing my relationship with God and learning more about how I can help others in their Christian walk. Dr. Langston Bannister is one of my mentors who opened my eyes to Spiritual Direction through a powerful spiritual experience that I shared with him and a Spiritual Direction session that he lead me through, and it was after that Session that I prayed and decided to sign up for this Course.
1) Define worship from Scripture, your experience, your church tradition.
My Scripture reference for Worship comes from Psalm 150:6 - 6 Let everything that has breath praise the LORD. Praise the LORD. I believe that worship is giving God ultimate praise for Him just being God all by Himself. I believe that praising God is worshipping God and that it is more than just singing, dancing and praising in church (which is very important communally), but that it also is praising God through how we live our lives for Him. I believe that we should live out Psalm 150:6 because we are blessed to have breath in our bodies and are here for God’s purpose and his glory; therefore, we should praise and worship Him in our homes, on our jobs, in school, in our cars, wherever we are we should worship God in spirit and in truth with every aspect of our lives. I agree with Calhoun’s statement that “True worship of God happens when we put God first in our lives. When what God says matters more than what others say, and when loving God matters more than being loved.” This is a tough place to be at times because you can be all alone and isolated from others, but the love that God gives in this time of worship surpasses any feeling that I have had through any other relationship that I have been blessed to have.
I come from a National Baptist Convention background in a predominantly African-American church where we would sing songs but had been indoctrinated in not showing outer praise (dancing) except for singing, based upon the restrictive teaching of the founding Pastor. However, within the last 10 years our church has moved toward more of a high praise service with clapping, singing, dancing, and openness to the move of the Holy Spirit that has changed the Worship Service and experience at our church. There have been services where Pastor Smith has not preached because the worship of God was so high with the Holy Spirit being present that all those who were present could feel the move of God through the worship experience. I love these kind of services because it makes me reflect upon what it must have been like in Acts where the Apostles and others received the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues. I believe that it is only through true worship of God that we fully begin to understand who we are and who He is to us, for us and in us.
2) Reflect upon Sabbath, what is God's intention with this Creation Ordinance (see Genesis 2:1-2), note this law is not about sin. How would you envision leading your congregation in practicing Sabbath.
I believe that God’s intention with the Creation Ordinance of Sabbath is to have his creation commune with Him and Him alone. God worked the first 6 days to bring all that He sought to create into being, but on the 7th day He rested, indicating that we are to follow His lead. Isn’t it interesting and encouraging knowing that “rest” is a command and ordinance of God. Are we really following God the way that we should when we ignore this very important ordinance?
Exodus 20:8-10 tells us to keep the Sabbath holy, work for 6 days but the 7th days is a Sabbath to the Lord your God, and on that day you shall not do any work. I think that this concept is one that must be taught within churches today in order to get the congregation to truly understand the necessity of resting and communing with God as He directs. Many times in my own church our Sabbath is on Sunday, but usually for those in the Ministry this seems to be the busiest day and the day when everyone wants to bring their issues to Pastor and myself directly before or after Church Service. A better understanding of Sabbath would allow this day to be a day of corporate worship and praise, but more importantly of rest from issues that probably can wait until Monday, but because there is no concept of Sabbath then there is no self-discipline regarding resting “from all work” on the Sabbath. Calhoun’s statement that “the day God had given as a respite from work became simply another kind of work” is something that I can definitely testify too. I believe that the Sabbath is extremely important and I try to practice it as effectively as I can through the power of the Holy Spirit with my family. I believe that it is so important that when offered employment that may have required me to work on the Sabbath (Sunday for me) it factored heavily in my decision not to accept that employment. Sabbath is important to God and resting is an ordinance that He requires, therefore, the correct practice of this most important communing time with God must be taught and practiced spiritually.
3) Write a psalm describing your heart of worship.
O God, you are the Creator of all things.
You are the day that turns into night,
And the light that was and is forever.
You are awesome and worthy to be praised by all of your creation.
O God, I worship you with my entire being.
My mind worships you because it is only your will that it desires to do.
My body worships you because it is your temple made for public praise.
My heart worships you because it is the Holy of Holies where you commune with me as my Creator.
And my spirit worships you because it is the essence of who I am in you.
O God, I worship you with all that I am and all that I will become.
You love me more than I could ever love myself.
Your grace and mercy sustain me.
Please keep me in the hollow of your hand,
And allow my praise and worship to be pleasing in your sight.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Introduction and Reflection
I am a M.A.F.M. student from Toledo, Ohio. I am enrolled in Spiritual Direction for the following reasons; it is a requirement and the focus is on guidance that I feel is much needed by all Christians. Listening to the Holy Spirit as it seeks to provide direction for my life is an area that needs attention on my journey. The latter reason forms the foundation for the goal and or objective for the course. Not only do I desire to listen but also to adhere to the directions of the Holy Spirit.
My Reflection on “Worship”
In his book, Calhoun says, “Everyone worships someone or something.” As I read the Scripture I found this is true. We find the worship of gods, objects, possessions and others. Some did worship God as well. In defining worship from the Scripture I will direct your attention to Psalm 71, “In thee O Lord do I put my trust.” I agree with Calhoun when she writes “True worship of God happens when we put God first in our lives” (2005, 25). In our church we sing a song with the lyrics that say, “Have thine own way Lord. Thou art the potter I am the clay.” Worship is a shaping and molding of ones life by the hands of God. As this life is being shaped and molded, God is praised in every aspect of that life.
From my early experience, worship was an in church experience. Visiting the churches of many of my friends exposed me to various types of worship services: Methodist, Lutheran, Catholic and Church of God in Christ. Growing up as a Baptist, the word worship was always tied to Sunday morning services. Worshipping God meant actively participating in the church service. There would be a devotional service, lots of singing, dancing, and praying. My mother would say, “The Holy Ghost is having its way.” There was nothing quiet about the overall worship experience. Psalm 150 was taken literally in our worship. “Let everything that hath breath, praise the Lord. The volume could be turned up by a gospel song or turned down as we sang a hymn. Maturing in the spiritual aspect of my life, I came to know of personal worship as I came to know God as my personal savior. I worship God through my poetry and other inspirational writings that come from my heart. As I pen to paper his love while looking through the eyes of his creation, I find a connectedness that culminates in worship to an awesome God.
Reading Genesis 2:1-2, and Exodus 20:8-10, I see a request or instructions for all people to understand the importance of rest. Rest replenishes us and God wants us healthy as we minister to others. When I was growing up in Florida, my family kept the Sabbath holy. No work of any kind was to be done. Mother cooked the Sunday meal on Saturday and warmed it up on Sunday. Of course this was long before there were malls and stores open on Sunday. Everything and everybody seemed to slow down on Sunday. Calhoun tells us that the Sabbath is God’s way of saying, “stop” (2005, 42). Disobedience to God finds many of us before a physician saying, “stop.” I have almost perfected resting but it came after I heard my physician say, “stop.”
I envision leading a church congregation in practicing the Sabbath by a direct plea based upon the Scripture—“Rest is important because God said so.” Now, I know this isn’t enough so; I will make it a challenge or even a contest of sorts. I will ask members to try by eliminating one area of work that they currently engage in on the Sabbath. I will stress the importance of taking time to rest in general, if not on the Sabbath. This could become the precursor to Sabbath rest. Perhaps, monthly, I will encourage testimony from those who took the challenge as inspiration and motivation for others to try. In the society that we live, I think there is a feeling of guilt about taking time for one's self to rest.
Psalm of Praise to Our Creator
How awesome you are O God!
I sing your praise in the moments of each day.
As the morning sunlight kisses my cheeks, I give you praise!
Stepping into a new day with new possibilities, I give you praise!
As I behold the beauty of nature and its awesomeness, I give you praise!
Your Spirit comforts me as a mother comforts her child, for this, I give you praise!
Praise for you are the words from my mouth.
Praise for you is the light unto my pathway.
In all I do, in this marvelous garden of your creation, let your praise be forever lifted up!
I sing in a loud voice, Praise be to God!
My Reflection on “Worship”
In his book, Calhoun says, “Everyone worships someone or something.” As I read the Scripture I found this is true. We find the worship of gods, objects, possessions and others. Some did worship God as well. In defining worship from the Scripture I will direct your attention to Psalm 71, “In thee O Lord do I put my trust.” I agree with Calhoun when she writes “True worship of God happens when we put God first in our lives” (2005, 25). In our church we sing a song with the lyrics that say, “Have thine own way Lord. Thou art the potter I am the clay.” Worship is a shaping and molding of ones life by the hands of God. As this life is being shaped and molded, God is praised in every aspect of that life.
From my early experience, worship was an in church experience. Visiting the churches of many of my friends exposed me to various types of worship services: Methodist, Lutheran, Catholic and Church of God in Christ. Growing up as a Baptist, the word worship was always tied to Sunday morning services. Worshipping God meant actively participating in the church service. There would be a devotional service, lots of singing, dancing, and praying. My mother would say, “The Holy Ghost is having its way.” There was nothing quiet about the overall worship experience. Psalm 150 was taken literally in our worship. “Let everything that hath breath, praise the Lord. The volume could be turned up by a gospel song or turned down as we sang a hymn. Maturing in the spiritual aspect of my life, I came to know of personal worship as I came to know God as my personal savior. I worship God through my poetry and other inspirational writings that come from my heart. As I pen to paper his love while looking through the eyes of his creation, I find a connectedness that culminates in worship to an awesome God.
Reading Genesis 2:1-2, and Exodus 20:8-10, I see a request or instructions for all people to understand the importance of rest. Rest replenishes us and God wants us healthy as we minister to others. When I was growing up in Florida, my family kept the Sabbath holy. No work of any kind was to be done. Mother cooked the Sunday meal on Saturday and warmed it up on Sunday. Of course this was long before there were malls and stores open on Sunday. Everything and everybody seemed to slow down on Sunday. Calhoun tells us that the Sabbath is God’s way of saying, “stop” (2005, 42). Disobedience to God finds many of us before a physician saying, “stop.” I have almost perfected resting but it came after I heard my physician say, “stop.”
I envision leading a church congregation in practicing the Sabbath by a direct plea based upon the Scripture—“Rest is important because God said so.” Now, I know this isn’t enough so; I will make it a challenge or even a contest of sorts. I will ask members to try by eliminating one area of work that they currently engage in on the Sabbath. I will stress the importance of taking time to rest in general, if not on the Sabbath. This could become the precursor to Sabbath rest. Perhaps, monthly, I will encourage testimony from those who took the challenge as inspiration and motivation for others to try. In the society that we live, I think there is a feeling of guilt about taking time for one's self to rest.
Psalm of Praise to Our Creator
How awesome you are O God!
I sing your praise in the moments of each day.
As the morning sunlight kisses my cheeks, I give you praise!
Stepping into a new day with new possibilities, I give you praise!
As I behold the beauty of nature and its awesomeness, I give you praise!
Your Spirit comforts me as a mother comforts her child, for this, I give you praise!
Praise for you are the words from my mouth.
Praise for you is the light unto my pathway.
In all I do, in this marvelous garden of your creation, let your praise be forever lifted up!
I sing in a loud voice, Praise be to God!
Friday, January 11, 2008
Session #1, "Course Introduction" [Posted by Dr. Nissley]
Welcome to "blogdom"! This may be a new universe for some of you to explore. If you have questions, suggestions, or concerns about this blog course, feel free to e-mail at my seminary account. Remember a blog is "public communication", which means anyone in the Internet universe can read your comments (This includes people in your church, friends, families, and others). This is a way doing public theology, in other words we are sharing our reflections, questions, fears, doubts, and faith with anyone who may be looking in. You can invite your mentor, friends, and pastor to read the blog. This may stimulate some interesting mentoring sessions.
Class Introductions: Your initial post can be an introduction to the class of your goals for the course, your ministry context, and vision for spiritual direction in your life and ministry.
K-Group Leadership: Consider a small group that you may be leading or will launch as part of this course which can serve as the laboratory for applying course content. You may begin brainstorming this activity with me, e-mail ideas or call on my cell phone, to plan a new meaningful small group ministry with a twist of spiritual direction.
Utilizing the Calhoun text, I am proposing that we flow through the 7 parts of this handbook on spiritual disciplines during the next 7 weeks. Take your time, and focus on one topic in each part that stirs your heart. The topic this week is "Worship".
Post your reflections from Part One on "Worship" by the next class session on January 21 before 8 pm. In other words the due date for each class session is one week after the class session. This allows you time to discuss and comment on each others posts throughout the week. You can check the blog each day for new posts. For example, I will post my reflection on worship, the class may then comment on my post and one anothers' comments. You see the discussion threads become intertwined and fun to say the least. There are 7 students in this class, which means we will have lots of energy, discussion, and questions that can be processed online via the blog and on our class retreat. I will post reflections and some discussion questions to launch the discussion.
Retreat: One student, Bill, is from southcentral PA, the remainder of the class is from NW Ohio. The seminary will provide transportation to the Retreat Center in either WV or western PA, depending upon availability at one of potential retreat centers. The Seminary will provide transportation via a UF van for the NW Ohio students. We can travel to the retreat center on Friday afternoon on February 29th and then return after Sunday lunch on March 2. Please contact me with questions about the Spiritual Direction Retreat. Your costs will be a 1/7 share of the van fuel, food and lodging at the retreat center.
Calhoun, Part One, "Worship"
1) Define worship from Scripture, your experience, your church tradition.
2) Reflect upon Sabbath, what is God's intention with this Creation Ordinance (see Genesis 2:1-2), note this law is not about sin. How would you envision leading your congregation in practicing Sabbath.
3) Write a psalm describing your heart of worship.
Welcome to "blogdom"! This may be a new universe for some of you to explore. If you have questions, suggestions, or concerns about this blog course, feel free to e-mail at my seminary account. Remember a blog is "public communication", which means anyone in the Internet universe can read your comments (This includes people in your church, friends, families, and others). This is a way doing public theology, in other words we are sharing our reflections, questions, fears, doubts, and faith with anyone who may be looking in. You can invite your mentor, friends, and pastor to read the blog. This may stimulate some interesting mentoring sessions.
Class Introductions: Your initial post can be an introduction to the class of your goals for the course, your ministry context, and vision for spiritual direction in your life and ministry.
K-Group Leadership: Consider a small group that you may be leading or will launch as part of this course which can serve as the laboratory for applying course content. You may begin brainstorming this activity with me, e-mail ideas or call on my cell phone, to plan a new meaningful small group ministry with a twist of spiritual direction.
Utilizing the Calhoun text, I am proposing that we flow through the 7 parts of this handbook on spiritual disciplines during the next 7 weeks. Take your time, and focus on one topic in each part that stirs your heart. The topic this week is "Worship".
Post your reflections from Part One on "Worship" by the next class session on January 21 before 8 pm. In other words the due date for each class session is one week after the class session. This allows you time to discuss and comment on each others posts throughout the week. You can check the blog each day for new posts. For example, I will post my reflection on worship, the class may then comment on my post and one anothers' comments. You see the discussion threads become intertwined and fun to say the least. There are 7 students in this class, which means we will have lots of energy, discussion, and questions that can be processed online via the blog and on our class retreat. I will post reflections and some discussion questions to launch the discussion.
Retreat: One student, Bill, is from southcentral PA, the remainder of the class is from NW Ohio. The seminary will provide transportation to the Retreat Center in either WV or western PA, depending upon availability at one of potential retreat centers. The Seminary will provide transportation via a UF van for the NW Ohio students. We can travel to the retreat center on Friday afternoon on February 29th and then return after Sunday lunch on March 2. Please contact me with questions about the Spiritual Direction Retreat. Your costs will be a 1/7 share of the van fuel, food and lodging at the retreat center.
Calhoun, Part One, "Worship"
1) Define worship from Scripture, your experience, your church tradition.
2) Reflect upon Sabbath, what is God's intention with this Creation Ordinance (see Genesis 2:1-2), note this law is not about sin. How would you envision leading your congregation in practicing Sabbath.
3) Write a psalm describing your heart of worship.
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