St. Mary's Lutheran Church Kenosha, Wisconsin

Lenten Renew Begins Feb. 22

2012-01-20T13:26:00.001-08:00

Words With Friends.

It’s the latest fad. Like an electronic Scrabble game played on the internet, one can create words, keep score and even chat with your opponent on the screen. You can play it on your computer, smart phone or digital tablet but watch out you will become addicted to the game!

Please consider putting down your digital “friend” one hour each week to meet with real friends for face-to-face conversation in our Lenten renewal. Like last year our main focus will be on small groups.

CONVERSATIONS is the name of our renewal which begins on Ash Wednesday, February 22. Each week we will have conversation about one character in the life of Jesus. We begin with Peter, then Mary Magdalene, etc.

The CONVERSATION renewal will include the following:

+Ash Wednesday Worship at 11am and 7 pm on February 22

+Small Groups will gather weekly beginning February 19th. Watch for sign-ups in the fellowship hall area. These groups are informal gatherings in homes, church building, or restaurants with minimal but warm hospitality. An easy-to-follow discussion guide makes it a “no-brainer” for the guide. The questions are to create friendly conversation and build trust in the group. Want to go deeper in the Word? The St. Mary’s blog on our web-site will include Biblical commentary.

+Daily devotions delivered via email. These will be written by members of St. Mary’s congregation.

+Wednesday Evening Worship in Lent beginning February 29th, the high school youth will lead a drama series, “Unlikely Conversations About Jesus.” These services are at 6 pm and a soup supper begins at 5 pm.

+Wednesday Morning Worship will include a short Bible study, special music, and prayer at 11 am

+Healthy conversations mission focus. Watch for displays in the library for ideas.
+A family event is being planned to lift up the renewal.

Watch the announcements!

May you be blessed in your “words with friends” this Lenten season. May you grow deeper in love with Jesus Christ and his people.

Pr. David Raben

PS: Prayer concern-the Call Committee is actively discerning God’s guidance as we seek an associate pastor. Pray each day that the Holy Spirit would call a pastor to lead in our midst!

For Sunday, January 15th

2012-01-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

Readings for this weekend:
1 Samuel 3:1-10
Ps. 139
1 Corinthians 6:12-20
John 1:43-51

CONVERSATION is the name of our Lenten Renewal which begins February 22, Ash Wednesday. The main experince for Lent will be our small groups gathering in homes, church, and coffee shops for discussion. Watch for details. Each week we will focus on at particular character around the cross. Peter, Mary Magdalene, Simon of Cyrene, and others.

New member Sunday at St. Mary's Church

2012-01-05T11:07:00.000-08:00

From Mark, chapter one:

"In those days Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee and was baptized by John in the Jordan. And just as he was coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens torn apart and the Spirit descending like a dove on him. And a voice came from heaven, 'You are my Son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.'"

New beginnings are important for everyone. For some the New Year will bring a new workout routine at the gym. Some has joined Weigh Watcher after too many Christmas treats. New starts are important. It is significant that we remember baptism on this Sunday when we receive our new members. Perhaps this Sunday will be a time for us all to start again in our walk with Christ!

Happy New Year!

2011-12-29T12:27:00.000-08:00

"For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven..."

I will be preaching on Ecclesiastes 3 on New Year's Eve, the 5 o'clock worship service. For baby boomers we remember "Turn, Turn, Turn" a popular anthem of the late 60's. Whenever that last digit turns over on our calendar there is always some fear and hope. In 1999 we were under the anxious weight of the Y2K scare. In the past years we have been hoping for a better economy, for companies to begin hiring more employees.

For Christians, the birth of Christ has brought a new sense of hope and expectation. We await the Kingdom of God...the good business of God is fill the earth. What "season" is it for you? Hope? Fear? A time to plant? A time to harvest?

Sunday we will gather for one service at 9 am. This will be a Christmas Lessons and Carols Celebration. Many of our college age youth will be leading music and participating in worship.

Happy New Year!
Pr David

Christmas Eve at St. Mary's Church

2011-12-23T06:34:00.001-08:00

I will be preaching on Luke, chapter 2 at the 5, 7, and 10 pm services at St. Mary's in Kenosha. I will also refer to Colossians 1:

"He is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn of all creation; for in him all things in heaven and on earth were created, the visible and invisible..."

I also was inspired by David L. Miller's words on the baby Jesus, God who became flesh, in the Lutheran magazine, Dec. 2004:

"His tiny hands will bless and heal. They will welcome the weary and cast out the demons that disfigure our souls. They will beckon to be heard and brush away detractors from the one true love that they bear. They will hold children, break bread and feed the hungry. They will bear the brutality of the executioner's nails, wielded by those who think it better to act on one's fears than to risk knowing the Love whom is God. These hands bear the power of Being itself, that holds all things together even now-and will draw us and all things into one loving, uninhibited holy Communion with himself." -page 66

Pr. Cliff Schmidt will be preaching at the Christmas Day service, Sunday at 9 am.

On behalf of St. Mary's community I will you all a most blessed Christmas celebration!

Christmas Reflection by Bishop Barrow

2011-12-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas is probably my favorite holiday, not because it is so terribly perfect, but instead because it is so terribly flawed. Much as we try to make Christmas look like a Hallmark card, or envision it as a sleigh ride down a snowy lane, or portray Jesus as a cuddly little baby, it just never works that way-at least not for me. In the same way, while Advent begins the church year as a season of expectation, a time of preparation and hope, we never really do seem to get prepared for the coming of Christ.

Let’s face it-the world no longer seems able to take a break from itself. “O Holy Night” gets played all right, but it’s as likely to be overheard in the checkout line at the supermarket as it is as the centerpiece of a worship service.

Who knows? Maybe that’s the way it has always been. Maybe it was designed from the beginning to be the Word thrust into the middle of tax season, amid long, arduous journeys in crowded places and in empires powerful enough to demand tribute and crush the human spirit if you let it.

No I think the true gift of Christmas is that it is a blessed intrusion into a world which is so far from perfect-SOOOO FAR from perfect.

Over the years I have begun to pay more attention to the number of the “strays” who seem to show up at Christmas time. On Christmas eve, I became more and more aware of the seemingly equal amounts of joy and sorrow, hope and disillusionment, promise and pain as people entered the sanctuary. Interestingly enough, we all come with the same hunger, not for a word ABOUT God as much as a word FROM God.

I also realized more and more that the proclamation of the “good news of great joy, a savior which is Christ the Lord” is a powerful word for a weary world.

For those of you who are part of the proclamation, either through preaching or reading or singing or setting the table for the celebration. I invite you, I implore you, to be bold in your proclamation. Preach and sing and pray as though your words make a difference in the lives of the hearers-because in fact your words do make a difference.

Those of us who are the hearers, the hungry, the beggars at the doorstep, we will not settle for a merry little Christmas. We long for a word which will pierce the darkness, a sound which will tear open the heavens like a bolt of lightening crackling down a mountain canyon.

A blessed Christmas,
Bishop Jeff

Third Sunday in Advent-December 11th

2011-12-08T09:27:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, Dec. 11th, I will be preaching on Isaiah 61. The people who were in exile in Babylon have now returned to the city of Jerusalem. It is a broken and ruined city. It looked worse than New Orleans after Katrina had done its damage a few years ago. The people returned to a mess, they were grieving their beloved city. Isaiah is addressing a community gearing up for a wake and funeral. Isaiah's words name this sorrow but points the people to the hope in God's power. The garland of flowers are to replace the ashes: God is coming and we expect a wedding festival instead of funeral dirges.

It is easy to be overwhelmed today with the funeral dirges of the bad economy, terrorism threats, war, homelessness and violence in our streets. Isaiah invites us to a wedding like celebration not to live in denial but to be caught by the vision of God. We shall be called "oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory." We are to be firmly in the world but not of it...we are to put our roots deep into the Word. Each week we gather for the party of hope, gathered around bread and wine we proclaim God's coming. There is reason for great joy!

Remember our Christmas Concert this Sunday at 1:30 pm in the sanctuary at St. Mary's Church. John Rutter's "Gloria" will be performed, as well as other sounds of the season from four Vocal Choirs, three Handbell Choirs, Youth Orchestra, and Joyful Noise. High Tea will follow the concert.

Sunday, December 4th

2011-12-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

From Mark, chapter one:

The beginning of the good news of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. As it is written in the prophet Isaiah, "See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way; the voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight,'"

John's rough and unconconventional style prepared the people to meet Jesus. Who helped "prepare" you to know about Christ? Who introduced you to a relationship with Jesus? Often it is not a pastor or "professional" church leader. Many times it is someone like John. Someone who has passion about God might speak more profoundly than an eloquent and well educated pastor. Parents, peers, and good friends have often influenced me by their joy and authentic witness. John definitely had the passion quality needed to get our attention. John, although passionate, does not point to himself but rather to Jesus.

During this Advent season, look for signs that point toward Jesus, his saving power and light.

OUR CELEBRATION DINNER WILL BEGIN AT 11:15 THIS SUNDAY. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Blessed Thanksgiving/Advent this Sunday!

2011-11-23T07:34:00.001-08:00

Tonight, Wednesday, Novemeber 23rd, we will meet for worship at 7 pm. Please bring a bag of groceries for the Shalom Center in Kenosha. A Pie Social will follow!

This Sunday, November 27th, is the first Sunday in Advent. The gospel reading is Mark 13:24-37. Jesus' words invite us to "keep awake" in a season when we can become heavy laden with demands and activity. During this season our worship is simplified, we take time for silence. The Spirit will awaken many things in us if we make some space for the Word. Have a blessed Advent!

Outreach For Hope update

2011-11-23T07:28:00.000-08:00

From the Milwaukee Journal:

Outreach for Hope shows it is season of giving
Nov. 22, 2011 |(1) Comments

As a bevy of nonprofits, community-based groups and government agencies struggle under the enormous pressure of a still slowing economy - at least one entity has seen its donations rise as a result.

The increase in giving to Outreach for Hope has meant churches and other ministries working in some of Milwaukee's poorest neighborhoods have been able to feed more families, and offer needed health care and transportation at a time that matters the most.

"The added funds have meant survival," said Marilyn Miller of Reformation Lutheran Church, where workers spent the last two days bagging up turkeys, corn bread stuffing mix, fresh vegetables and other trimmings to hand out Wednesday to more than 150 families in need, just in time for Thanksgiving.

The church, 2201 N. 35th St., is in an area where poverty has grown even more deeply entrenched with the Great Recession, said the Rev. Jim Bickel, director of the outreach group, a wing of the Greater Milwaukee Synod-ELCA.

"We started getting the word out. I spent a lot of time sharing the story of the need in those neighborhoods of poverty," said Bickel, imploring members in the synod's 130 churches to dig a little deeper.

And they did, donating a collective $335,000 toward the cause, a more than 10% increase over last year's total.

"When times are tough, more help is needed. It's not complicated," said Chuck Klawitter, a member of St. John's Lutheran Church in Brookfield. He and his wife, Judy, increased their annual contribution by 20%. "It is important for us to share even more because there is more of a need."

The outreach effort, which began in 1995 supporting a handful of ministries, now serves 22, mainly churches within the Milwaukee area.

"We couldn't do the work that we do without Outreach for Hope," said the Rev. Steve Jerbi, pastor of All Peoples Church, 2600 N. 2nd St.

He said the church, with its funding, was able to start a parish nurse program, which recently delivered dozens of flu shots to area residents and two days ago fed more than 200 people Thanksgiving meals.

Sandra Kimbrough, a member of Hephatha Lutheran Church, also a ministry recipient, said the organization's efforts had served as a positive influence on her children, who are 14 and 16.

"When the need arises, they help us. We give thanks and are grateful," said Kimbrough, whose children donate their time to help others. "They have become better teenagers. The more that they are given, they understand that they need to give back."

Recently, the group has expanded its outreach to meet the needs in other struggling communities, and one of its newest ministries is Lutheran Church of the Redeemer in Racine, which serves a growing Hispanic population.

Through its funding from Outreach for Hope, Redeemer was able to expand its afterschool program, called Martes Maravillosos, or Terrific Tuesdays, this year, said the Rev. Chuck Ruehle, a retired pastor and one of the program's adult leaders.

"We have been able to grow," said Ruehle, who added that the program, which operates from 2:45 to 6 p.m., also serves a meal to participants, their siblings and other family members.

Outreach organizers estimated that 4,263 meals are served weekly at the various ministry sites, realizing it can't reach everyone in need.

"You have to focus your aim," Bickel said. "Our goal is to make the churches we support (be) anchors in those communities."

OUTREACH FOR HOPE
Mission: To connect monetary gifts with congregations serving the poor in the Greater Milwaukee Synod-ELCA.

Address: 1212 S. Layton Blvd., Milwaukee, WI 53215

Phone: ( 414) 671-1212

Website: outreachforhope.org

Faces of Hope focuses on Milwaukee-area people who need a hand and the organizations that are helping them. If you have story ideas, email Felicia Thomas-Lynn at fthomas-lynn@journalsentinel.com or call (414) 224-2073.

© 2011, Journal Sentinel Inc. All rights reserved.

Whack Malaria!

2011-11-18T11:15:00.000-08:00

This Sunday, David Fuerst, of Lutheran World Relief will be our preacher. This Sunday we will celebrate the work of the Malaria Initiative. Many in our congregation, from youth groups to seniors have engaged in fundraising to purchase treated bed nets for people in Africa. This work is saving many lives! Thanks to all who engaged in this mission. Come and hear how LWR is working to eradicate malaria.

Our gospel reading for the day is from Matthew 25:31-46. "When did we see you hungry, sick, or in prison?"

...I was afraid, and so I went and hid your talent...

2011-11-10T07:18:00.000-08:00

"But the one who had received the one talent went off and dug a hole in the ground and hid his master's money..."

This Sunday we will hear the parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30. The master entrusted his property to his servants. One received 5 talents, another received 2, and one servant was given one. A talent is equal to 20 years income. They were to be stewards of more than pocket change, but much as one's life of wages.

Often in parables, Jesus uses the "master" or person in authority to symbolize God. This doesn't work here. The master is described as "a harsh man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you did not scatter seed..." He sounds more like someone who exploits workers, running some scheme, to profit from slaves who lived in fear.

Perhaps, Jesus was connecting them to their Roman occupation or the economic structures of his day. Regardless, 2 servants were actively engaged with their stewardship, the one who was afraid, buried his talent.

The Bible tells us that God provides everything we need, but everything we call "our own" really belongs to God. We are to be stewards, caretakers. We take nothing from this world. Our world is not ours to own, but it is entrusted to us. One day we pass it on to the next generation.

The idea of stewardship helps loosen our tight grip on material things and frees us up to live with joy. When we live in fear, we end up "burying" our talents, our lives.

What has been "buried" because of fear in your life? Perhaps you have been raised with a concept of God which is fearful? Some folks have been raised with a worldview of scarcity, "There will never be enough for me and mine." Our of fear we can hide and bury the very thing which bring joy when shared.

Everybody's God Something to Offer is our theme for renewal this fall. I am amazed and inspired to witness the many ways people as St. Mary's share their gifts and live as faithful stewards. Thanks for your witness!

Cracked Pot Saints

2011-11-04T06:42:00.000-07:00

This Sunday, November 6th is All Saints Sunday. Whenever I hear the word "saint" I think of that 90's band, REM, and their song, "Shiny Happy People." The popular image of a saint is that they are always peaceful and have a certain glow, like their halos in renaissance art: shiny people. But in the gospel for this Sunday, Jesus gives a somewhat different picture of the saints or honored ones. In Matthew 5, Jesus pronounces them as blessed (or "honored" might be another translation) to the broken and crushed people who live in the margins of the world: those who grieve, the poor in spirit, the meek and humble, those who hunger and thirst for making things right and just in society. These are people who have had their hearts broken by the ways of this world. The are honored in God's sight. I think it was the writer Frederick Buechner who used the phrase "cracked pot saints." We are broken people but God's love and grace have seeped into the cracks and filled us with his power and blessing. Even in our broken shards, we are blessed to be a blessing to others!

This Sunday is a time for us to give honor to the broken ones of this world and to see the power of God working in the lives of the faithful in spite of their broken rough edges. Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians: "But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that it may be made clear that this extraordinary power belongs to God and does not come from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed but not driven to despair, persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down but not destroyed..."

Reformation Sunday, October 30

2011-10-29T06:07:00.000-07:00

In 1953 Marlon Brando played the part of Johnny, a leader in a motorcyle gang in the movie, The Wild One. The gang traveled about, causing trouble in small towns in California. Johnny is having conversation with Mildred, a local. She asked, "Hey Johnny, what are you rebelling against?" He quips, "Whadda you got?"

Movies and books have a romantic facination with the rebel without a cause. At the same time our history is a series of rebellions which have advanced noble causes: the early colonial leaders reblelled against the monarchy of England and the mercantile houses of London which exploited the cotton and tobacco farmers of Virginia. William Wilberforce, a Brittish politian, started a protest movement to abolish slavery. The "Arab Spring" has brought down despots and tyrants. It has been interesting to follow the Occupy Wall Street movement. What happens when most of the wealth is in the hands of the 1%?

This Sunday is our occasion to remember the Protestant Reformation. Martin Luther, a Roman Catholic monk and university professor, started a protest movement to reform the Church of his day. The Church at the time, owned much of the wealth and preyed upon the German people with fear and guilt. Luther's reform movement refocused the God's gift of grace. We cannot purchase this grace with silver or gold, we cannot earn it with good works, or favors given by a bishop. "For by grace you have been saved through faith" is the motto of this protest movement. The gospel of the day is from John, chapter 8:

Jesus said, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciple; and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you make you free."

We are set free to give our lives to God's work, to experience the shalom of a community, to "go pray, love, and serve!"
Now this is a rebellion with a great cause!

Everybody's Got Something To Offer

2011-10-26T12:47:00.000-07:00

“Each of you must give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for
God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that by always having enough of everything, you may share abundantly in every good work.”
-2 Corinthians 9:7-8

A smiling tiny face looks up at me, her small hand holds a colorful paper. “This is for you!” she says, bubbling with joy. My office is filled with creative projects from Cross Training classes. A brilliant poster, an Easter egg, a detailed sketching on a bulletin insert of me behind the altar, a matchbox car, and a small packet of jelly beans all point to the joy of giving. Our stewardship theme for fall is “Everybody’s Got Something to Offer.”

Many of our members are busy writing “testimonial” letters to the congregation about the joy of giving and about how they have experienced God working in their lives and in our congregation. Watch your mailbox for these personal stories of faith. We will have a congregational pot luck dinner on Sunday, December 4th at 11:15 am. On that weekend, we will collect the “estimate of giving” cards. Please pray and consider how God is working in your life.

May the Spirit bring joy to your lives today,

Pr. David Raben

PS: Please pray for our Call Committee. After much prayer and reflection, the Council and Personnel Committee will make a priority to call an associate pastor. Although we have been blessed to have a Business Manager in the past, I sense that this time in our mission it is more essential to have strong pastoral leadership at St. Mary’s congregation. The office staff and committees are working together to make sure that all of our administration is in good order and that we are good stewards of what God has given us. Please continue to pray for our staff and leadership of our church.

Speak the Truth in Love

2011-10-21T07:18:00.000-07:00

In Matthew 22, a lawyer asked Jesus, "Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?" He answered, "'You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your strength, and with all your mind.' This is the greatest and first commandment. And the second is like: 'You shall love your neighbor as your self.' On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets."

To love your neighbor as yourself might take different forms: working for justice, caring the homeless, showing hospitality, showing patience, not being arrogant or rude....the list goes on. But most often it is our words which keep us from loving our neighbor. Perhaps your defensiveness with your wife, the hastily composed email, a thoughtless Facebook post, or just our failure to listen to others. Perhaps gossip or passive-aggressive behavior, not being direct with someone, or failing to speak the truth in a loving manner to others...can all be ways we break this commandment.

The work of Christ goes far beyond adopting some good communication skills. The early Christian community believed that Christ was alive in their words and actions. Paul wrote to the struggling new church in 1 Thessalonians, chapter 2:

"But we were gentle among you, like a nurse tenderly caring for her own children. So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us.

This is more than sentimental talk,Paul believed that all of our words and actions are embedded with the Good News of Christ. Just as the Living Word of God has claimed, forgiven, and loved us, our words and very lives embody this Good News.

The Holy Spirit continues to gather us as living stones. We are the Church of God, with all of our imperfections, but calling us to be built into a community, where we speak the truth in love with honest and direct communication. Words can be life-giving, may our words, our listening, our speaking honestly reveal to the world God's love.

God does big things in small groups

2011-10-14T11:03:00.000-07:00

This Gospel reading for this Sunday is Matthew 22:15-22, which is about paying taxes to Caesar. Although taxes are a hot topic right now in our public conversation, I decided to focus on the second reading, 1 Thessalonians 1:1-10. This is one of the oldest books in the New Testament. At this time Thessaloniki is one of the largest cities in Macedonia.This urban center was culturally and religiously diverse. Although Paul often spoke in Jewish synagogues, the "Jesus" community grew out of small home churches. These small gatherings were powerful places to experience God's love. These churches were centered around prayer, hospitality, and the Word of God.

Think of those settings where you have experienced God's love most significantly? Likely they were in your family kitchen, a small group at work or church, or perhaps on a mission trip. Paul wrote about this experience in chapter 1, verses 4 and following:

"For we know, brothers and sisters, beloved by God , that he has chosen you, because our message of the gospel came to you not in word only, but also in power and in the Holy SPirit and with full conviction..."

You are chosen to belong to the family of God, you are "beloved." Where is that safe place where you are regarded as beloved?

Generous Hospitality-not to be taken lightly!

2011-10-07T08:41:00.000-07:00

This Sunday Pr. Cliff Schmidt will be preching on the following:

Matthew 22:1–14

Jesus tells a parable indicating that the blessings of God's kingdom are available to all, but the invitation is not to be taken lightly.

Once more Jesus spoke to them in parables, saying: 2The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a king who gave a wedding banquet for his son. 3He sent his slaves to call those who had been invited to the wedding banquet, but they would not come. 4Again he sent other slaves, saying, 'Tell those who have been invited: Look, I have prepared my dinner, my oxen and my fat calves have been slaughtered, and everything is ready; come to the wedding banquet.' 5But they made light of it and went away, one to his farm, another to his business, 6while the rest seized his slaves, mistreated them, and killed them. 7The king was enraged. He sent his troops, destroyed those murderers, and burned their city. 8Then he said to his slaves, 'The wedding is ready, but those invited were not worthy. 9Go therefore into the main streets, and invite everyone you find to the wedding banquet.' 10Those slaves went out into the streets and gathered all whom they found, both good and bad; so the wedding hall was filled with guests.
11But when the king came in to see the guests, he noticed a man there who was not wearing a wedding robe, 12and he said to him, 'Friend, how did you get in here without a wedding robe?' And he was speechless. 13Then the king said to the attendants, 'Bind him hand and foot, and throw him into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.' 14For many are called, but few are chosen."

Blessed to be a blessing to others

2011-09-29T11:44:00.001-07:00

This weekend I will speak on Isaiah 5:17 and Matthew 21. 33-46.

Have you ever visited a vineyard? Perhaps it was one of the romantic places in the Napa Valley. Sitting out on a patio, taking in the vista of hills, rows of grape arbors...someone brings out wine and cheese. "Ahhh, this is the life!" The image of the vineyard was common in songs of the ancient Hebrew people. Eating the grapes from vines which were planted by their father's father, reminded them of God's blessing. Though they were one a nomadic people, now were established in a home. Isaiah's song hits a sour note when he sings of the bad grapes and broken down walls. This was a song of judgment, God's blessed people failed to bring justice to the community. Jesus pushes this point in Matthew's gospel. The leaders failed to produce fruit of repentance. God's intention for us is blessing, abundant life; yet, we hold so closely God's good gifts, we end up with sour grapes. Sour grapes might be that the hungry go without bread while many live in abundance. The poor are exploited to benefit the stockholders is a sign that the garden has gone to seed. God sends Jesus with an invitation to return to the vineyard where all are welcome at the table.Jesus calls us to a new "economy," living in relationship with Jesus and creation. Repentance is about returning to your true home, where the bread of life is served and where we drink the fruit of the vine. What will keep you from the feast?

Whack Malaria Benefit Tonight

2011-09-23T06:22:00.000-07:00

A wine, cheese, and chocolate tasting event is planned for tonight at Kenosha Woman's Club, 6028 8th Ave. Admission is $25, all net proceeds go to Lutheran Relief Malaria Initiative. Thanks to Tenuta's for their great support in this event!

Check out the most recent Time magazine and you will read about the great reductions in this preventable and treatable disease in Africa. It's great to read some good news for a change!

Prayer Changes Lives

2011-09-22T09:08:00.001-07:00

"...so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:10-11

This Sunday, September 25th, I will be preaching on Philippians, chapter 2. At the very beginning of the letter, Paul connects prayer with knowing the joy of a community. This ancient Scripture includes a hymn celebrated the death and resurrection of Jesus. These words invite us into a life of transformation.For me, spiritual transformation happens best in relationship with others. The honest and loving relationship with my wife has helped me to grow as a person. Gaining wisdom from a friend over coffee, and taking time to go fishing with some other pastors, are opportunities for God's Spirit to speak to me.

Having the "same mind" as Christ invites us to be changed, focusing less on myself so that I might be engaged in sacred relationships, to love others. Like water over a limestone canyon, over time, prayer, worship, liturgy, and Scripture wears down my rough edges so that I might engage in a community focused on mission and God's love.

Prayer has changed-and is changing- my life!

NOT FAIR!

2011-09-17T07:26:00.000-07:00

This Sunday Pr. Sandy Chrostowski will be preaching on Matthew 20:1-16. She serves as one of Bishop Barrow's assistants and is the Director of Evangelical Mission in our synod.

In Matthew 20, we read about the vineyard owner who hires workers throughout the long hot day. At the end of their labors all get paid the same! The employer is unusal in that he was gracious to those who had even worked up a sweat. God's grace seems to be unfair.

God invites us all to the banquet of his grace, even when we fail to earn this grace. A Sunday School teacher once taught me that GRACE stands for:

God's
Riches
At
Christ's
Expense

Grace always comes as a surprise and jolts our sense of fairness. It turns upside down our "bookkeeping" of who is "in" and who is "out."

Holy Cross Day observed on Sept. 11

2011-09-09T07:10:00.000-07:00

Prayer of the Day
Almighty God, your Son Jesus Christ was lifted high upon the cross so that he might draw the whole world to himself. To those who look upon the cross, grant your wisdom, healing, and eternal life, through Jesus Christ, our savior and Lord, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen

Numbers 21:4-9
4From Mount Hor they set out by the way to the Red Sea, to go around the land of Edom; but the people became impatient on the way. 5The people spoke against God and against Moses, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and we detest this miserable food.” 6Then the Lord sent poisonous serpents among the people, and they bit the people, so that many Israelites died. 7The people came to Moses and said, “We have sinned by speaking against the Lord and against you; pray to the Lord to take away the serpents from us.” So Moses prayed for the people. 8And the Lord said to Moses, “Make a poisonous serpent, and set it on a pole; and everyone who is bitten shall look at it and live.” 9So Moses made a serpent of bronze, and put it upon a pole; and whenever a serpent bit someone, that person would look at the serpent of bronze and live.

1 Corinthians 1:18-3118For the message about the cross is foolishness to those who are perishing, but to us who are being saved it is the power of God. ….27But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; 28God chose what is low and despised in the world, things that are not, to reduce to nothing things that are, 29so that no one might boast in the presence of God. 30He is the source of your life in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God, and righteousness and sanctification and redemption, 31in order that, as it is written, “Let the one who boasts, boast in the Lord.”
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John 3:1-17
14And just as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son of Man be lifted up, 15that whoever believes in him may have eternal life. 16“For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life. 17“Indeed, God did not send the Son into the world to condemn the world, but in order that the world might be saved through him.

Healing for the Nations, remembering 911

2011-09-06T12:44:00.001-07:00

He shall judge between the nations, and shall arbitrate for many peoples; they shall beat their swords into plowshares,
and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation,
neither shall they learn war any more.
-Isaiah 2:4

Dear sisters and brothers,

911…..it used to mean a “call for help.” For the past ten years it was become a date to mark an important event in our nation’s history. We remember the heroic firefighters in New York City who gave their lives in the burning towers. We remember the stories of those who died at the Pentagon and upon the airplanes that were hijacked. The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan followed the attacks and we regularly read of brave soldiers who have lost their lives on distant battlefields. Our country has also become more suspicious of our neighbors who practice religions we know very little about. We have become more reactive and anxious in our political and economic discussions. After 10 years we still are reflecting on what has happened to our nation. What have we learned? Are we safer due to our military efforts and increased security at airports? How do we support families of those on extended military deployments? Will there be jobs for returning soldiers? How will we work together to make peace? How do we care for the poor and work for justice? September 11th, it’s still not settled on what significance will remain over history.

I don’t pretend to have all the answers to these questions. The prophet Isaiah also lived in a time of war and homeland security issues. The Assyrian Empire could wield terror and oppression better than any of the extremist groups today! God gave Isaiah a dream that one day all the nations would come to the mountain of Lord’s house and we might know the ways of peace. 911 stills means, “a call for help, “and God’s help is exactly what we need. The many questions of this past 10 years are not answered with simplistic responses but a humble and faithful response to God’s leading.

We will gather for worship on this day to pray, listen, and rededicate our lives to Isaiah’s dream for peace. Because of sin, we are a broken people and need that “call for help.” It is prayer and praise which brings healing for the soul. We will also lift up healing for all the nations. We pray for those who are grieving, for those in military service, for our enemies, for leaders of nations, and for all who work for peace. Please join us for worship on this special Sunday.

Peace of Christ,
Pr David Raben

O God, our help in ages past, our hope for year to come,
our shelter from the stormy blast and our eternal home.
-Isaac Watts, 1674-1748

September 4

2011-08-31T09:57:00.000-07:00

GOSPEL: Matthew 18:15–20

Jesus offers practical advice to his disciples on how individuals—and the church as a whole—should show wrongdoers their need for repentance.

15If another member of the church sins against you, go and point out the fault when the two of you are alone. If the member listens to you, you have regained that one. 16But if you are not listened to, take one or two others along with you, so that every word may be confirmed by the evidence of two or three witnesses. 17If the member refuses to listen to them, tell it to the church; and if the offender refuses to listen even to the church, let such a one be to you as a Gentile and a tax collector. 18Truly I tell you, whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven. 19Again, truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. 20For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there among them."

Conflict is everywhere. Jesus understood that even the church would be a place where relationships can become conflicted. The above Scripture is often quoted in church consitutions. If someone ofends you, speak to them directly. A good place to begin.

This is also Labor Day weekend. In our soceity we have been conflicted about workers rights, collective bargaining, and what to do with the large numbers of those unemployed. Jesus gives us these words in order to build a sacred community, a community of accountablity. Even when we disagree, even when tempers flare, God's big picture for us is a community based on honest and compassionate dialogue.

Paul wrote to the Romans that all of God's Law is summed up as "Love your neighbor as yourself." -Romans 13:8-14

Continue to pray for our world, nation, our congregation, and our families, that we seek God's help in making us a community based on love. Have a blessed Labor Day weekend!
Pr David Raben

let them deny themselves and take up the cross

2011-08-27T06:26:00.000-07:00

The gospel for this weekend is Matthew 16:21-28

Have you even heard the expression, "She really has a cross to bear!" Many people go through life having to bear heavy burdens. Perhaps you see a friend suffering through an abusive relationship. You neighbor is dying of cancer. The economic down turn has left your friend unemployed for two years. A cross to bear.

Jesus invites Peter and his followers to "deny themselves, pick up the cross and follow..." Jesus is not, for most people, inviting them to martyrdom. The Church has more than a few martyrs down through history. Nor is Jesus inviting us to be victims of abuse or a dysfunctional marriage, to be a door mat for some tyrant boss.

To pick up the cross is to meet God in a place of transformation, to recognize that Christ came to bring a new regime, a new kingdom, and new community. To deny yourself is not to deny your human flesh, your talents, your life giving relationships with loved ones. Jesus wants us to deny the old regime, the old order of sin and oppression so that we might pick up the cross, the place of forgiveness, healing, and victory over death.

Like Peter, it is hard for our minds to get around this "cross" business. Jesus, who they expected to be king, would humble himself to serve, to suffer, and to die for the world. Like Peter, it is easy to buy into the mind-set of kingdom as domination, power, or control.

Jesus calls us again and again to the cross, a place a transformation, a place of healing, the pivot of human history, a place of change. It is there where a gracious God meets us. Will you pick up the cross and follow?

Sunday, August 28th

2011-08-18T08:30:00.001-07:00

Bike Ride for Malaria is happening this Saturday, August 20th. Meet at St. Mary's, 2001 80th St at 8:30 am. The $10 registration fee is a donation for the Lutheran Malaria Initiative which will provide treated nets for families in Africa.

This Sunday we will introduce our new interim youth and family minister. God has raised up new leadership!

I will be preaching on Matthew 16:13-20. Jesus asks his disciples, "But who do you say that I am?" Peter's response is correct, "You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God."

Have you ever had the correct answer to something yet you were not sure where your words were leading you? I had prepared to be a parent. I had read books, talked with other parents, and had learned good lessons from my own parents. I had the answers. But when baby Anna was brought home from the hospital, it hit me that my wife and I were just beginning a life-long experience of learning, loving, and growing into what it means to be a parent. I suspect it was true also for Peter. When Jesus died and rose again, Peter was drawn into a relationship and faith he never expected.

Yes, Lord, I believe...it's just the beginning of our learning, loving, and growing!

Ryan Gerlach is our guest preacher on 8/14

2011-08-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

Ryan will soon be leaving our congregation to attend seminary to prepare for word and sacrament ministry ( to be a pastor in our church). This weekend he will speak on Matthew 15 (see below). Ryan has blessed our staff, congregation, and especially the youth with his leadership and energy. Please come to wish him well as he finishes his work at St. Mary's.

GOSPEL: Matthew 15:[10–20] 21–28

Jesus teaches his disciples that true purity is a matter of the heart rather than outward religious observances. Almost immediately, this teaching is tested when a woman considered to be pagan and unclean approaches him for help.

10Then he called the crowd to him and said to them, "Listen and understand: 11it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but it is what comes out of the mouth that defiles." 12Then the disciples approached and said to him, "Do you know that the Pharisees took offense when they heard what you said?" 13He answered, "Every plant that my heavenly Father has not planted will be uprooted. 14Let them alone; they are blind guides of the blind. And if one blind person guides another, both will fall into a pit." 15But Peter said to him, "Explain this parable to us." 16Then he said, "Are you also still without understanding? 17Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth enters the stomach, and goes out into the sewer? 18But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this is what defiles. 19For out of the heart come evil intentions, murder, adultery, fornication, theft, false witness, slander. 20These are what defile a person, but to eat with unwashed hands does not defile."
21Jesus left that place and went away to the district of Tyre and Sidon. 22Just then a Canaanite woman from that region came out and started shouting, "Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David; my daughter is tormented by a demon." 23But he did not answer her at all. And his disciples came and urged him, saying, "Send her away, for she keeps shouting after us." 24He answered, "I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel." 25But she came and knelt before him, saying, "Lord, help me." 26He answered, "It is not fair to take the children's food and throw it to the dogs." 27She said, "Yes, Lord, yet even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters' table." 28Then Jesus answered her, "Woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish." And her daughter was healed instantly.

Sunday, July 31

2011-07-27T11:06:00.000-07:00

In today's first reading, Isaiah 55, God invites all who are hungry or thirsty to receive food and drink without cost. Jesus feeds the hungry multitude and reveals the abundance of God. At the eucharistic table we remember all who are hungry or poor in our world today. As we share the bread of life, we are sent forth to give ourselves away as bread for the hungry.

GOSPEL: Matthew 14:13–21

After John the Baptist is murdered, Jesus desires a time of solitude. Still, his compassion for others will not allow him to dismiss those who need him, and he is moved to perform one of his greatest miracles.

13Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a deserted place by himself. But when the crowds heard it, they followed him on foot from the towns. 14When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick. 15When it was evening, the disciples came to him and said, "This is a deserted place, and the hour is now late; send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves." 16Jesus said to them, "They need not go away; you give them something to eat." 17They replied, "We have nothing here but five loaves and two fish." 18And he said, "Bring them here to me." 19Then he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave them to the crowds. 20And all ate and were filled; and they took up what was left over of the broken pieces, twelve baskets full. 21And those who ate were about five thousand men, besides women and children.

"Send the crowds away so that they may go into the villages and buy food for theselves." Wrong answer, Jesus says, "Bring them to me." Jesus and his followers were grieving the death of John. It was hard to see clearly. The disciples also had a world-view of scarcity: never enough. Anxiety, grief, greed, dispair might play into our response to the hungery..."send them away!" Jesus give the church a new and different vision. A vision of abundance. 12 baskets left over!

Sunday, July17- Wheat and Weeds

2011-07-15T09:06:00.000-07:00

Gospel Matthew 13:24–30, 36–43

Jesus tells a parable about the co-existence of good and evil in this world. God's judgment will remove all evildoers and causes of sin, but not until the end of human history.

24He put before them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven may be compared to someone who sowed good seed in his field; 25but while everybody was asleep, an enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and then went away. 26So when the plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds appeared as well. 27And the slaves of the householder came and said to him, 'Master, did you not sow good seed in your field? Where, then, did these weeds come from?' 28He answered, 'An enemy has done this.' The slaves said to him, 'Then do you want us to go and gather them?' 29But he replied, 'No; for in gathering the weeds you would uproot the wheat along with them. 30Let both of them grow together until the harvest; and at harvest time I will tell the reapers, Collect the weeds first and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather the wheat into my barn.'"
36Then he left the crowds and went into the house. And his disciples approached him, saying, "Explain to us the parable of the weeds of the field." 37He answered, "The one who sows the good seed is the Son of Man; 38the field is the world, and the good seed are the children of the kingdom; the weeds are the children of the evil one, 39and the enemy who sowed them is the devil; the harvest is the end of the age, and the reapers are angels. 40Just as the weeds are collected and burned up with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. 41The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all causes of sin and all evildoers, 42and they will throw them into the furnace of fire, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. 43Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Let anyone with ears listen!

1.) What happens when you try to uproot evil in your life or in the world?
2.)Wheat and this particular weed look alike. What are the dangers of identifying evil in others? Often we make judgments of people, others races, religions or cultures. Do we set ourselves up as God? Why is best to let God tend the weeds of the field?
3.) How has it been difficult to live along side of evil in the world?
4.) God intends for the wheat to be rooted in good soil so that it might grow into maturity. What is your life rooted in so that you might have a fruitful life?
5.) Remember the song, "Lord, let my heart be good soil..." What is "good soil" for you?

Sunday, July 3rd

2011-07-01T13:14:00.000-07:00

From Matthew 11: 16-

Jesus spoke to the crowd saying: "but to what will I compare this generation? It is like children sitting in the marketplaces and calling to one another, 'We played the flute for you, and you did not dance; we waited, and you did not mourn.'"

Jesus continues in verse 25, At that time Jesus said, "I thank you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and the intelligent and have revealed them to infants..."

The words of Jesus are mysterious and confusing to me at times. Jesus announces the Kingdom of God but the Phd's and smart folks might not "get it." At the same time children will connect with God's plan intuitively like the games they play in the marketplace.

Jesus was addressing people who had their hearts and minds cluttered with religion and rules. They had make everything so complicated. The Message Bible reads: Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life...Learn from the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you."

Jesus invites us into a movement. A movement of grace where we "let go and let God."
It is about the gift of grace not the clutter of a complicated religion. A child understands that. Why is it so difficult for me?

A cup of cold water

2011-06-23T16:27:00.000-07:00

“Whoever welcomes you welcomes me, and whoever welcomes me welcomes the one who sent me…and whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones in the name of a disciple-truly I tell you, none of these will lose their reward.” –Jesus in Matthew 10:40, 42

Children seem to have an intuitive sense about whether they are accepted or not. Is this a hostile place or friendly? Children are good detectors of genuine hospitality. As a young child worshipping with me parents, I quickly learned who was warm and excepting and who could produce a hostile glare.

This summer we will encounter dozens of visitors in our midst at St. Mary’s. The summer months are typically when people move into our community and are searching for a new church home. Showing hospitality is not complicated. Jesus reminded his followers that even a cup of water shared with a little one will bring rewards. I give thanks to God for all of you, sharing even the small things when you gather on weekend worship. A small gesture means a lot to those who are new in our midst.
I am able to take some time with my family and some continuing education this summer. I am grateful for our many lay caregivers, pastors Schmidt and Hanus, and our office staff working hard in the background. This summer you will also hear preachers from global missions settings and Chuck Brumond from Greater Milwaukee Synod.

May the peace of Christ be with you as you worship and travel this summer.
Pr David Raben

Visitors from South America

2011-06-18T06:26:00.000-07:00

Our preachers for this Sunday, June 19th are Henrik and Patty Christopherson of World Mission Prayer League. They have served congregations in Chiclayo, Peru in South America. They also lead mission education events in the United States.

The World Mission Prayer League, Inc. ("WMPL") is an independent Lutheran mission society and prayer fellowship, sending missionaries to sixteen countries in Latin America, Africa, Asia, Europe and North America. The purpose of the WMPL is to evangelize and plant churches where Christ is unknown or little known. In addition, the League seeks to fulfill the commandment to 'love our neighbor' by ministering through medicine, development, education and relief. WMPL provides ministry opportunities to men, women, lay people, clergy, and people in all walks of life.

For more information: www. wmpl.org

Great Balls of Fire...It's Pentecost!

2011-06-11T05:38:00.000-07:00

From Acts, chapter 2:

And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it tilled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire appeared among them...All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit.

For many of us when we think of the Holy Spirit, think of an emotional experience. Perhaps others think of the Holy Spirit as the comforting and leading presence of God in your life. The image of the Spirit in Acts is disruptive and even disturbing. Dr. David Lose of Luther Seminary in St. Paul writes of the paradox of Pentecost. "The Holy Spirit does not come to solve our problems but to create them."

Had the Spirit not been given to Peter, James, John, and Mary, they all could have gone back to Galilee for a peaceful life fishing and telling and retelling their memories of Jesus. There could deal with their grief and get back to a normal life. Normal was not an option when the Spirit came. The raging winds of the Spirit, the fire of God drove them into the Roman world doing the mission of Christ: healing, forgiving sins, raising the dead, breaking bread, and bringing Good News to the poor.
Instead of a comfortable life in Galilee, they encountered the problems and joys of being the Church.

What fire storm is raging for you? What mission is God calling you to serve? Will God lead you to places you never imagined?

Sunday Summer Schedule: 8 (outdoor), 9 & 10:30

2011-05-31T12:16:00.000-07:00

Update on St. Mary's staff:

“Finally, brothers and sisters, farewell, put things in order, listen to my appeal, agree with one another, live in peace; and the God of love and peace be with you.” -2 Corinthians 13:11

Farewell
Adios
Goodbye
So Long
Later….no, I am not leaving St. Mary’s, but many of our staff have moved on to serve God in other settings.

Goodbyes are difficult. Paul, the early Christian missionary, said a number of goodbyes to communities in which he lived and worked. Farewells for Paul also included a benediction (a good word). It was a time not only for tears but for remembering what God is doing in the community. For Paul, it was the Holy Spirit giving unity of mission so all would experience God’s love and peace.

St. Mary’s has had its own share of goodbyes in recent months. Most recently, Ashleigh Henrichs is leaving to work with the Kenosha Literacy Council. Ryan Gerlach is finishing his work at St. Mary’s in August to attend Lutheran School of Theology in Chicago. With God’s leading, he will be trained and certified to be a pastor in the larger church. Both Ashleigh and Ryan have done tremendous ministry in our midst. Many of our new members have chosen St. Mary’s because of our strong emphasis on youth.

I am writing to you not only to give you an update on personnel transitions, but more importantly, to remind you of Paul’s benediction, that God’s love and peace is revealed even in times of change. While changes bring grief, grief can be an opportunity to name the good word, the word about what God is doing in our midst. Both Ryan and Ashleigh have engaged parents to share their gifts in youth ministry; we are becoming a richer and spiritually connected congregation. We see families learning the faith together, not only in classes but family events and mission trips. The benediction or good word, is that God is blessing us, we are growing in faith and becoming a healthier community centered in Christ, the peace and love of God.

With the leading of the Holy Spirit and in conversation with the council and staff, the following plan is being considered:

• Ashleigh will finish her work at the end of June. We have posted the Children’s Ministry job, 25 hours a week.
• We will be looking for an interim youth director who can begin before Ryan leaves for seminary. Youth and family ministry is a major piece of our mission. Having an interim person will give our youth time to grieve and for our parents and leaders to vision for the future of our youth program.
• Pastors Cliff Schmidt and Cliff Hanus have helped significantly in preaching. We will consider others ways in which pastors can support our ministry until we have another associate pastor. One important area is teaching and creating small groups. I would like to have a pastor do the teaching for our FISH-confirmation ministry.
• A Call Committee will be formed this summer to begin the search for another associate pastor. Currently the council and staff are working on a vision plan for the future. Please pray that the Holy Spirit will work in this important process.
• Regarding the business manager, we hope to find someone to work with property, day to day stewardship of our building and office and to help with the finances. Currently the office staff and key leaders from our committees have pulled together to carry out the work of administration.

Like Paul and his many goodbyes in the early church, we also are empowered by the Holy Spirit. It is this Spirit which keeps us unified in Jesus Christ and his mission to the world. Live in peace; and the God of love and peace be with you.

Pr. David Raben

friend...advocate....Spirit

2011-05-26T17:45:00.000-07:00

Who is your best friend?
Who stood by you on a tough time in your life?
Having a friend, advocate, or counselor might make all the difference in the world for you. In our gospel reading for Sunday, Jesus promises an advocate in John 14:15-21.

"And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, to be with you...I will not leave you orphaned."

These are words of encouragement for the followers of Jesus. Jesus is trying to prepare them for his own death in Jerusalem.

Death. I don't know what can really prepare us for this kind of shock or sorrow. An advocate is not like a friend who abandons you in difficult times. An advocate is not like the friend who tries to cheer you up ( which only makes you feel worse!). The Holy Spirit is our advocate which gives us an authentic presence of God, a presence which gives us permission to grieve but the Spirit which calls us into a larger community. The Spirit is no "quick fix" but rather the tug of God which keeps pulling us back into the community where we will be loved, supported, and held accountable. Friend...YES!

Road Trip

2011-05-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

With warmer weather moving into cold Wisconsin, I have been thinking about a road trip. I like traveling by car and seeing the sights along the way. The curve of the road, the changing landscape, and learning about the people and places, make travel interesting. In John 14, Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except by me." Most people become obsessed by the exclusive language, "no one comes...except through me," that they fail to hear what Jesus is saying about the spiritual life. When Jesus says that he is the "way," the Greek word can also be translated, "I am the road..." I think Jesus is saying that following God is like a road trip, it is a journey, a process, and an unfolding of God's truth. Recently, Rob Bell published a book about heaven and hell, Love Wins. In an interview, he makes the point that Christianity can have a "destination" orientation verses a "journey" orientation. I haven't finished his book, but it makes me think about my own journey and understanding about God. Faith is more than just learning the correct formula so that I can get into heaven. It is really about a relationship with God which unfolds as I travel down the road of life. Like Thomas and Philip, I've got a lot of questions about this journey. In spite of the questions, I believe that God is with me. In John 14, Jesus says, "Believe in God, believe also in me." Belief really means trust. Do you trust that God is with you in the ups and downs of life's journey? It helps to not travel alone. Jesus talked a lot about the Kingdom of Heaven. Perhaps, heaven is where God is revealing himself in my daily life? The entire text for Sunday, John 14:1-14 is challenging. Some might see it as a road map that points to a destination. I like to think of it as the AAA guide book to attractions and places of discovery. Knowing what I know about God there are sure to be some big surprises down the road! Even in my wanderings, God has chosen to walk with me in the presence of Christ.

Guest Speaker, Sunday, May 15

2011-05-13T11:03:00.001-07:00

We are happy to welcome Lisa Bonds to our pulpit this Sunday. Ms. Bonds is the Vice President of External Relationship at Lutheran World Relief. St. Mary's is partnering with LWR to address the disease of Malaria. A $10 gift will provide a treated net to sleep under. This could save a life. Watch for more information regarding the Malaria Initiative.

Shepherd--May 15th

2011-05-13T10:50:00.000-07:00

GOSPEL: John 10:1–10

Jesus uses an image familiar to the people of his day to make a point about spiritual leadership. Good shepherds bring people to life through Jesus, but those who avoid Jesus are dangerous to the flock.

Very truly, I tell you, anyone who does not enter the sheepfold by the gate but climbs in by another way is a thief and a bandit. 2The one who enters by the gate is the shepherd of the sheep. 3The gatekeeper opens the gate for him, and the sheep hear his voice. He calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. 4When he has brought out all his own, he goes ahead of them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice. 5They will not follow a stranger, but they will run from him because they do not know the voice of strangers." 6Jesus used this figure of speech with them, but they did not understand what he was saying to them.
7So again Jesus said to them, "Very truly, I tell you, I am the gate for the sheep. 8All who came before me are thieves and bandits; but the sheep did not listen to them. 9I am the gate. Whoever enters by me will be saved, and will come in and go out and find pasture. 10The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

From Ron Delbene's book, "From the Heart:"

After preaching on the Good Shepherd, a tall, elderly gentleman with a British accent approached after worship. He told of his experience during the war when he was serving in the British intelligence...
During a critical point in the fighting, British operatives discovered that spies disguised as shepherds were getting through a particular mountain pass on the Turkish border. The British could not distinguish the impostors from the real shepherds who were tending their sheep in the area.

Knowing where the spies were coming through and not being able to catch them was extremely frustrating. Then someone in the British intelligence came up with the idea of using small planes to buzz the sheep. The plan was put into action and pilots flew low over the mountain passes. The frightened sheep ran to their shepherds, clustering close around them Anyone dressed as a shepherd with no sheep nearby was a spy.

How clever! How amazing! And how true to the Gospel of John in which Jesus says, "I am the good shepherd: I know my own and my own know me." -John 10:14-15

Sunday, May 8th

2011-05-05T16:18:00.001-07:00

The Gospel reading for Sunday is from Luke, chapter 24. It is the familiar story about Cleopas and his friend who encounter Jesus on the road to Emmaus although they do not recognize him. They invite Jesus to stay with them as the sun is now fallen in the western sky. At the table Jesus takes the bread, gives thanks, and breaks the bread and their eyes are opened to see Jesus before them.

Each week we gather to break bread. It is a basic human experience to be welcomed and fed at the table by others.This holy hospitality is a core value of our congregation, being that Jesus welcomed us, we welcome others. In the Bible Jesus ate with sinners and was the very presence of God's grace and extravagant love.

In response to seeing Jesus in the breaking of bread, they went and told others. Open eyes will cause us to open our mouths.

Taste and see that the Lord is good. Let's tell the world!

Death of Osama bin Laden

2011-05-05T16:11:00.000-07:00

There has been a variety of reponses in the media as people heard the news of Osama bin Laden's death. I thought what Bishop Mark Hansen had to say was important to hear. Let us continue to pray for those in military, those who grieve from losing a loved one, and for peace among the nations.

Message on the death of Osama bin Laden
Presiding Bishop Mark S. Hanson
May 2, 2011

Sisters and brothers in Christ,

The death of Osama bin Laden is an occasion for solemn remembrance. We remember the lives of all whose deaths resulted from his choosing hatred and violence. We stand with those who continue to mourn the death of loved ones while giving thanks for their lives, their love and their faith. We also continue to hold in prayer all whose service in the military, in government and in humanitarian and peacemaking activities contribute to a safer and more prosperous world.

At the same time we also recall who we are: people baptized into Christ, freed to serve our neighbors. We are people called as Christ’s ambassadors of reconciliation with our neighbors, serving God’s work of restoring community. We engage our neighbors of other faiths, including our Muslim neighbors near and far, in respectful, searching dialogue and shared commitment to build a world that reflects God’s will for peace with justice. We pray for our neighbors, even those who are our enemies.

Most of all, in these 50 days of celebrating Christ’s resurrection, joy finds its fullest and deepest expression not over a human death but in God’s promise to unite all things in heaven and on earth, to reconcile the human family and to bring God’s reign of peace. Confident in what God has promised, we witness our resolve against any act of violence in the name of religion and our renewed commitment of service to the neighbors and world God so deeply loves.

In God’s grace,

The Rev. Mark S. Hanson
Presiding Bishop
Evangelical Lutheran Church in America

Faith with a few questions

2011-04-30T11:24:00.000-07:00

The Gospel for Sunday is John 20:19-31

Thomas was not with the disciples when Jesus revealed himself in the locked room. His response to their witness: "Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands, and put mmy finger in the mark of the nails and my hand in his side, I will not believe."

Authentic faith always come with a few questions. We also find ourselves believing in things where we eariler insisted, "I will not believe." The Holy Spirits nudges us forward into a larger world view, beleiving in a bigger and bigger God. Thomas is often refered to as "doubting Thomas." Perhaps we all have some doubts, I admire Thomas for speaking up, and making his feelings known to those around him. On any given Sunday, I have my own set of doubts. I'm glad that I am not alone. I'm grateful for a Church with a big faith even when my faith is small. The Holy Spirit continues to stretch us into a larger vision of God and his Kingdom.

Holy Week Message from Bishop Jeff Barrow

2011-04-23T05:52:00.000-07:00

I miss my dad. He was an interesting mixture of stubbornness, piety and irreverence unlike anything I have ever experienced. Like many WW2 veterans,he felt deeply and spoke seldom. Yet, when he did speak, he seemed able to cram volumes of truth(whether you wanted to hear it or not) into few words. I miss those words of wisdom. I really do.
Like many parents and children,much of our relationship was shared and shaped "on the fly". It was experienced on the way to ball games, driving in the car together on the way to who-knows-where, over the phone, and at the doorstep of hellos and goodbyes. He and my mom were most often the admiring onlookers of anything their children were doing,cheering us on amid our greatest successes, being the ones who continued to believe in us amid our most bitter disappointments and failings. I consider myself blessed and am grateful because of my parents.
Interestingly,one of my most cherished memories of my dad came very near the end of his life, after a stroke claimed his ability to speak. It was there in the hospital and the nursing home where,perhaps for the first time in our lives, my dad and I had to look each other in the eye in order to communicate. It was awkward at first. He could no longer blurt out the pithy one-liners for which he was famous. Suddenly, I had to focus,to center my own thoughts,to remain present in order to interpret his thoughts. It was not the easiest time in either of our lives. In its own way,it was one of the most precious times.
I thought about that important time as I thought about what Holy Week really means for Christians around the world. So much of our relationships of faith are lived "on the fly".
We believers have often become doers as much as we have become listeners. We measure our faithfulness in terms of numbers of dates on the calendar,numbers of activities per square foot, numbers of measurable mission events,number of hours spent in Christian service. Those are indeed an integral part of believing.
Holy Week,however,begs for something different. Amid all of our Martha-type activities(God knows there are a ton of them as we prepare for the Pascal Feast),perhaps more than anything else it is God`s face time with humanity. It is the time when God asks that we remain present in the room. It is the time when God asks us to put everything else aside,when God desires not so much our doing as our beholding. After all this grace thing is really all about God-in-Christ acting and speaking and about our seeing and hearing.
As we enter this most holy time in the life of the church,I pray that it may be time for all of us to look into the face of God.
Blessings to you my sisters and brothers. Bishop Jeff

Jesus Stills the Storm in Matthew 8:23-27

2011-04-15T12:45:00.000-07:00

When the tsunami warning came to a small community in Japan, everyone headed for the hills to save themselves. Su-suma Su-gar-ah, got in his boat and at full throttle, headed directly into the incoming killer waves rolling toward the coast. Su-sama was not naïve to tsunamis and their deadly force. He thought to himself, if I stay in port my boat will be destroyed. I must save my boat. Su-suma serves a tiny island community which depends on his daily delivery of food, supplies, and offers one of the few modes of transportation. “I’ve been in this boat for 42 years; she won’t let me down now…” Racing the engines, hands on the controls, he stared across his bow and saw a monumental wave coming toward him. He was accustomed to dealing with big waves, 4-5 meters high. The tsunami wave, 20 meters –or better was in front of his small boat, riding higher and higher. Expecting to capsize his vessel, he crested the wave like a mountain and sailed down the backside…for 5 or 6 waves, each time, his boat remained upright. Paula Hancocks of CNN interviewed Susuma and learned of his experience. Another local man who owned a grocery business was interviewed as well. After the deluge the grocer gave away his entire store to people who needed food, he now spends his day helping Su-suma transport supplies, water, food, and relief workers to an island community off the coast of Japan. The grocer tells Hancocks, “ Su-suma is a brave man; he saved his boat, and is now helping others to survive. Everyone used to look out for themselves but now the whole community works together.” Back and forth through the frothy waters, Su-suma goes in his boat. –Paula Hancocks, CNN April 2, 2011

I. In the events of holy week, everyone runs for the hills to save themselves, Jesus goes directly into the dark storm of Jerusalem to die on the cross, facing death in order to save the world.

A. Jesus could have run for the hills in the face of death, he chose to confront the injustice of Rome, the corruption of religious leaders, and even the betrayal of friends. Like Su-suma, he was on a mission on behalf of others. Jesus was to bring his saving gift to the entire world: forgiveness, victory over death and the grave, new life for a dying world.

II. When Jesus stills the storm, I believe, Jesus was demonstrating his power over the forces of death. This small passage in Matthew’s gospel, in a sense, is a “small” Easter story. Mark Twain once said, “Everybody talks about the weather but nobody does anything about it!” Here Jesus does exactly that. But this is more than a miracle in meteorology, it points to the ancient understandings of creation, an echo to Genesis, chapter one.

A. Water, deep waters, was a symbol of death, meaning less, and chaos to the ancient Jew.

B. In the creation account of Genesis, chapter one, the Spirit of God hovered over the face of the deep waters, as if to say, “the creative power of God” is going to bring a new order, new life, to this ancient, watery grave… Out of these waters, God brings forth life.

1.) Psalm 89:9-11, “You rule the raging sea; when its waves rise, you still them. You crushed Rahab like a carcass…” (Rahab was a sea monster from mythology in ancient Babylon).
2.) Psalm 18: 16-17, “He reached down from on high, he took me; he drew me out of mighty waters. He delivered me from my strong enemy…” “mighty waters” is a common image for terrible distress that threatens to overwhelm the sufferer- Harper Collins Study Bible page 814
3.) When the readers of Matthew heard this short account of Jesus on the stormy waters, they knew exactly the sub-text. God is again creating new life over the face of the waters! The above references from the Psalms paint the picture of God’s creative work, bring life out of death.
4.) The story of Jesus on the stormy waters tells a deep and profound story of God’s love and salvation. Like stories from my childhood, they take on meaning over time:
5.) By our farm house in which I grew up was a cistern. Rain water was diverted off the roof and collected in this deep reservoir. The water was used to wash clothes and for watering the flowers. The lid on this deep cistern was held down with a large granite rock. My grandfather always gave a stern warning about the dangers of this watery abyss. “It’s bottomless” he would say. Growing older, I knew there was a real bottom, but it was a family story which was told, again and again, in order to speak a sober truth. Children can die, deep waters are dangerous, and that “we love you very much and are watching that you don’t do anything stupid or dangerous.” When Matthew’s readers read about Jesus and the storm, the story had a deeper meaning, it was about death and life, about a God who loved us and was willing to send his Son into the teeth of the storm so that our boat-the church- might be saved.

III. This Holy Week, Jesus again presides over the waters of death, calling us to a new creation, a new life.

Mission Trip Faith Talk this Sunday, April 10th

2011-04-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

During our Walking Wet Renewal this Lent we have encouraged people to join a small group for conversation around Scripture and prayer. A powerful way to experience a small group is to go on a mission trip. Each year the ELCA congregations in Kenosha gathers a group of workers to travel to the New Orleans areas to work on home as a rebuilding effort after the destructive deluge of hurricane Katrina. This Sunday, April 10th, Allison Bourdeau, will speak concerning her experience with Habitat for Humanity on this trip. Please come and pray for our friends in the gulf area and they continue to rebuild homes and lives.

Fish Story ~ Luke 5:1-8

2011-04-06T07:20:00.001-07:00

I. Have you ever sensed the presence of God? Have you ever been caught up in a sense of awe?
A. I hear stories each day about how people have been awed by something powerful: witnessing a birth of a child, watching the great migration of wild animals across the Serengeti, or perhaps, sitting on the beach watching a sunrise over Lake Michigan.
B. Peter Marty, who recently wrote a column in “The Lutheran” magazine, claims that we live in an “awe-deficient” time. We dash from place to place, seeking to be more productive, multi-tasking, yet, when it comes to “awe” we are starving. Perhaps that plays into our age of diminished expectations. In spite of growing up in a rural area, attending a two room school, there was a growing expectation of great things happening in the world. Our nation’s space program was about to put astronauts on the moon, farm productivity was increasing, and even an issue like civil rights for African Americans issues that were distant from my small town in Minnesota, there was a growing movement towards justice for all. The world was moving to a new and better place.Today, in spite of our wealthy, resource rich nation, and advanced technology, our dreams are not on the stars, but what’s on the cable television for the night. We need more awe and a high vision in this time of reduced expectations.
C. Spirituality has always moved us to a larger world, a higher mission, and to seek God’s dream for His creation. In the Bible, we read several times in which God reveals His presence in powerful ways: the burning bush, the call of Isaiah in the temple, the birth of Jesus, etc. The great catch of fish in Luke 5 is another place of awe and revelation.

II. Peter was so amazed by this miraculous catch of fish he falls to his knees, he was humbled by the presence of Jesus.
A. After the great catch, the nets were breaking; the boats were sinking, Peter declares, “I am a sinful man…” More humility, his place aside the son of God, rather than a confession of a particular sin, I believe.
B. But even with his sense of sin, perhaps a sense of his mortality, and insignificance besides Jesus, God was able to use him to do great things. THE VERY POWER WHICH BROUGHT HIM TO HIS KNEES ALSO LIFTED HIM UP TO A LIFE OF PURPOSE AND MISSION. Jesus said, “Do not be afraid, from now on you will fish for people.” Peter would engage in God’s mission, to help save the world, to bring mercy and justice, and the life-changing love of Christ to all.
III. In my life, I rarely encounter a burning bush or sink my fishing boat with walleyes; I do, however, see people who are changed as they encounter Christ.

A. I know a young man who came back from a mission trip with his church youth group who was changed, changed so much that he decided to attend college and medical school. Encountering God raised him up to a new vision for his life.
B. I have talked with many from our mission trips to the New Orleans areas who have been awed by the experience, awed so much as to dedicate their lives to the work of Habitat for Humanity.
C. I see members whose lives have been changed by divorce, death of a loved one, or addictions, but they have been touched by the presence of God in a small group which has brought them into recovery and to claim a new perspective on life.
We are starved for “awe” and we hunger for the right-ness of God, perhaps with the eyes of faith, you might encounter the living God in your “boat” or daily work this week!
D. For Peter, it was the same power of God which brought him to his knees that raised him to a new life in Christ, a life of purpose. “Do not be afraid, from now on you will be catching people!” Let us all get “caught” in the life changing love of God…now that is truly AWE-some!

Clean water mission

2011-04-02T05:59:00.000-07:00

During our Walking Wet renewal, many of our small groups are engaging in "water" missions, to bring clean water to people who are in developing nations. A Thursday morning group has decided on new water tanks for a community in Papua New Guinea. Mae Herman, one of the leaders of the group, shared the following with me:

The above pictures of water tanks are from Timothy Lutheran Seminary in Birip, PAPUA NEW GUINEA, The Seminary trains local pastors.
>> The metal tanks are rusted out and full of holes. There is one 2000 gallon plastic tank, which is BPA free, was installed almost 2 years ago. Their primary source is from the River Lai which is used by humans and animals.
>> A 2000 gallon plastic tank installed would cost $2500.00. The
>> plastic tanks are BPA free. Checks could be written out to the PNG
>> (Papua New
>> Guinea) Mission society and would be tax deductible. Mae Herman will give a faith talk on this mission this weekend, April 2-3. If you would like to support this mission speak to Mae. The group will also set out a basket for a freewill offering. Clean water in this community will reduce disease and improve the health of all. Thanks be to God!

Living Water-meeting Christ at the well

2011-03-24T08:44:00.001-07:00

The reading for this Sunday and the third week of our Lenten renewal is from John, chapter 4.

“The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life.” –Jesus

This is a familiar story for those who grew up in a church community. Jesus encounters a Samaritan woman at Jacob’s well. The conversation starts even though Samaritans and Jews do not associate, let alone share drinking utensils. There is also a taboo about speaking to men in public. A lot of social rules being broke here! Some important points to consider as you reflect on this scripture the week:

• A common interpretation of John 4 is that the woman at the well is immoral, a prostitute, or an adulterer. There is no evidence by scripture or tradition to conclude this. Jesus says that she has had 5 husbands and now has #6. She may have been divorced by her previous husbands, or perhaps she had outlived her husbands and by Levite tradition, was obligated to marry the brother, etc. Like many of the women in biblical writing, she has no name. Later she returned to the city, “Come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done!” The declaration is not a “confession” of past sins; rather, Jesus could see in this woman her brokenness and hope for the Messiah.
• Like the conversation between Nicodemus and Jesus in chapter 3 of John, the woman doesn’t quite catch what Jesus means by “living water.” Remember Abbot and Costello and the “who’s on first” routine? The conversations in John’s gospel give a lot of room for missing the point. After Jesus offers the woman living water, she comments: “Sir, give me this water that I may never be thirsty or have to keep coming here to draw water…” At the end of the conversation she begins to get it. Yes, Living Water…the Messiah…worship in the Spirit of God. In the end she goes back to the city and becomes one of the first Christian evangelists…"ome and see.”
• The phrase, “come and see a man who told me everything I have ever done. He cannot be the Messiah, can he?” There is a longing today for acceptance. Churches that help people find safe places to share their stories, admit their brokenness, and find support, will be effective churches and reflect the spirit of this encounter at the well. This is why small group ministries are important. It is one thing to attend worship, but for many, finding some new friends and a place of acceptance and accountability is priceless.
• In speaking of the gift of living water, Jesus uses a curious phrase: “The water that I will give will become in them a spring of water gushing up to eternal life…” –verse 14. In John 7:37ff, she gives the invitation to all who are thirsty, “come and drink” which is an echo of Isaiah’s words (Isaiah 55). Jesus again speaks of living water and in verse 39, the writer explains that living is the sign of the Holy Spirit. Flowing living water from our hearts is an experience of God’s Spirit, calling us to look beyond our physical thirst and be filled with His presence. All this seems very mysterious yet this is the essential dynamic of a community gathered around Word and Sacrament. We are empowered to “flow” outward into the world with the Good News of grace for all who thirst for God’s love and mercy. The Samaritan, although unnamed by John, returned to the city with an announcement of how she encountered Jesus.

Water for the World

2011-03-23T12:14:00.001-07:00

Our Lenten reflection is on the spirituality of water and the Word. During Lent at St Mary's we are emphasizing the importance of water not only for sacramental use but water used for drinking and cooking. In our church library we have displays and information about water missions you can support. Check out the library or search for Lutheran World Relief or Church World Service on your computer. You will discover how you can help drill a well in Africa or provide clean water for those in a disaster area.
This Sunday our gospel reading is from John, chapter 4. Jesus invites the woman in Samaria to drink living water.

A devotional by Harold Frush

2011-03-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

While we were in our mother’s womb, we were surrounded by amniotic fluid. This amniotic fluid is basically water which is generated by our mothers’ bodies to protect and nourish us while in the womb. After we are born we are meticulously cared for by our loving parents. The care we get includes the food (usually mother’s breast milk, which is almost all water,), protection from dangers (including our own sharp nails), and cleanliness. The cleanliness almost always involves water. Water is sometimes boiled to sterilize items, at other times it is used to cleanse our bodies of the ‘dirt’ that has gathered there. We, also, consume water to wash out the poisons that accumulate in our bodies. These cleansing activities need to be continued throughout life to keep our bodies clean and healthy.

At some point in our Christian life we submit our lives to God through our baptism. We accept being a child of God and he washes away our sins forever. The baptismal water is good forever in contrast to our hygienic bathing which must be repeated to protect us. It is so easy to forget that we are children of God if we don’t practice our faith, attend church, help the mission and ministries of the church and spread the good news that Christ is alive. Nevertheless God still loves and protects us.

Every baptism reminds me of the power and commitment of those baptismal waters. These baptisms help to keep me walking wet.

Being born of water and Spirit

2011-03-18T07:22:00.001-07:00

From John, chapter 3:

Now there was a Pharisee named Nicodemus, leader of the Jews. He came to Jesus by night and said to him, “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher who has come from God; for no one can do these signs that you do apart from the presence of God.” Jesus answered him, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can see the kingdom of God without being born from above.” Nicodemus said to him, “How can anyone be born after having grown old? Can one enter a second time into the mother’s womb and be born?” Jesus answered, “Very truly, I tell you, no one can enter the kingdom of God without being born of water and Spirit.”…..For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.

John 3:16…the most quoted, the most memorized words of scripture. Frequently, while watching football on television, there is some faithful fan (not only of football, but of Jesus), holding a large banner to be seen through the uprights! With such familiarity of this verse there is a danger of not hearing anything new when these words come to our ears. Perhaps it is like sitting across from your wife at the breakfast table, behind the morning paper, “yes, dear” you mumble as your spouse asks you questions about your day. “For God so loved the world…” should get our attention in a significant way. Perhaps the following might be helpful:

• The context of this famous verse is in a conversation with a Jewish leader about new birth. Nicodemus was well versed in the Laws ( 613 laws to be exact!) that the faithful should know and follow. Yet,this leader was having a difficult time understanding Jesus’ reference to being born again. “How can one be born after one is old?” It is theology not biology, Nick! There is a temptation for Christians to be so literal minded that they fail to understand the deeper meaning in the Bible. A spiritual truth is like the blowing wind, it is hard to catch the meaning and direction immediately. To be born anew or to be born from above is really about transformation by the Holy Spirit, rather than just memorizing some more rules.
• To be “born again” or to be “born from above” is not some clever “formula” for us to learn or repeat in order to get into God’s club. Being born again is a life-long transformation of hearing God’s word, receiving communion, engaging in Christian fellowship, mission, and stewardship. In short: new birth is a relationship. Trusting in God’s promises in our daily living, we are transformed again and again.
• The powerful claim of John 3:16 points to this awesome gift of God’s love. We are tempted to turn Christianity into something we do or figure out but the life-changing power of this claim is that we are loved by God. Just putting this famous verse on a bumper sticker or in the end zone fails to grasp its life-transforming power. It is a gift which takes a life time to unwrap!
• The name of the religious leader in John 3 is significant. Nicodemus means: victory of the people. We are often tempted to turn our Christian piety into something that is private. God so love the WORLD, which included people of every culture and nation. God’s love is victory for the people of Japan, for the hungry of Haiti, for the neighbor across the street.

Week One: Scripture Notes

2011-03-11T09:30:00.000-08:00

Matthew 3:16-4:11

In the wake of Jesus’ own baptism, the Spirit leads him out into the wilderness to be tempted by the devil. One cannot help but think of the abrupt shift in the scene: Jesus goes into the water; the Spirit descends like a dove, the heavens open and the affirming words from his Father: “You are my son, my beloved…” Before he knows it, Jesus is out under the hot sun, wandering through a hostile world of temptation. Talk about going from a mountain top to the dark valley in a few steps.

I believe that in all of the temptations Jesus faced, the underlying temptation was to be shaken from his loving relationship with his Father. “If you are the Son of God, turn these stones into bread…” When temptation comes our way it is really not so much about “breaking the rules,” rather temptation attempts to break us from our identity, that we are children of God. David Lose from Lutheran Seminary says this:

Matthew portrays Jesus as fasting as a righteous Jew. He also has a different ordering of the Tempter's trials, placing the temptation to worship Satan as the culminating episode in the scene, one that calls for Jesus not just to reject the specific temptation, but the Tempter himself.

Taken together, the three rejected temptations not only demonstrate that Jesus is righteous according to the law but also prove his identity as God's divine and beloved son. Indeed, Satan's temptations get immediately to the core question of Jesus' identity, calling into question his relationship with God by beginning with the provocative, "If you are the Son of God...." This relationship, announced just verses early at his baptism, is now confirmed through Jesus' unswerving trust in God.

Individually, each temptation invites Jesus to turn away from trust in God in a different way. In the first, the devil invites Jesus to prove his sonship through a display of power; that is, by establishing his validity and worth through his own abilities. In the second, the temptation is to test God's fidelity. In the third -- more an out-and-out bribe than temptation -- Jesus is promised all the power and glory the earth can offer if he will give his allegiance and devotion to the Tempter. In each case, Jesus rejects the temptation and lodges his identity, future, and fortunes on God's character and trustworthiness. –workingpreacher.org

Another interesting connection in the temptation account is that the devil first challenge to Jesus is that he turn stones into bread. Certainly Jesus was hungry and at some point he would have broken his fast and some bread in his stomach would have been quite satisfying. In the first part of Genesis, Adam and Eve were tempted to eat of the forbidden fruit. Perhaps the age old temptation is to fill ourselves on material stuff or “spiritual junkfood” but are never satisfied until we have a relationship with God. Nicky Gumbel wrote in a tract entitled, Why Jesus?:
You and I were created to live a relationship with God. Until we find that relationship there will always be something missing in our lives. As a result, we are often aware of a gap. One rock singer described it by saying; “I’ve got emptiness deep inside.” …People try to fill this emptiness in various ways. Some try to close the gap with money—but that does not satisfy. Aristotle Onassis, who was one of the richest men in the world, said at the end of his life, “Millions do not always add up to what a man needs out of life.”…Even the closest human relationships, wonderful though they are, do not in themselves satisfy this “emptiness deep inside.” Nothing will fill this gap except the relationship with God for which we were made…Jesus said, “I am the bread of life” (John 6:35). He is the only one who can satisfy our deepest hunger because He is the one who makes it possible for us to be restored to a relationship with God.” –pp4-5 Alpha International, London

Walking Wet is to remember not only what satisfies our deepest longings but it is to remember our identity: we are children of God.

Weekly Scripture Readings for Lenten Renewal

2011-03-10T10:23:00.000-08:00

Walking Wet: the spirituality of water and the Word will frame our Lenten journey at St Mary's congregation. The following readings from scripture speak to the powerful image of water and God's saving work in Jesus Christ. Many Christians will naturally think of the water in baptism. This season will be a time to reflect on "What does it mean to be baptized in my daily living?" We will also explore, "What does it mean for us as followers of Christ to live in the world where clean water is scarce or in danger of being polluted?"

March 13, 2011 week 1 Matt, 3:16-4:11 Psalm 23 Isaiah 43:1-3

March 20, 2011- John 3:1-16 Romans 6:1-8
March 27, 2011- John 4: 5-15 John 7:37-38 Exodus 17: 1-7

April 3, 2011- Luke 5:1-8 Psal 114: 7-8 Eccl 11:1

April 10, 2011- Matthew 14:22-32;Genesis 7:1-17 Exodus 14:13-21

April 17, 2011- Matthew 8:23:27;Genesis 1: 1-13 Revelation 22:1-2

Ash Wednesday Services: 11 am and 7 pm

2011-03-06T05:04:00.001-08:00

Ashes to ashes, dust to dust…

Even though the practice of tracing ashes on the faithful has become a ritual for me as a pastor, it will never become routine. I try to brace myself for this experience every year and every year I am not prepared for the emotion, the awe, and reverence I see in your faces. While my Baptist mother would often dismiss such a practice as “Catholic” and “just a ritual,” it actually is rooted in the history of Christians throughout the world. Perhaps to keep it from becoming just something we do without thinking, let us consider this meaningful symbol. In ancient Rome ashes were used for scrubbing as an abrasive cleanser. Lent is a time to “scrub” away anything that separates us from God. Perhaps this washing image fits well with the “WALKING WET” invitation for the season of Lent at St. Mary’s. Question: What is separating you from God’s joy and peace? Each Sunday I see faces longing for something deeper in their walk with God. Consider joining a small group for Lent. Our baptismal walk in life includes a larger family, a community gathered around water and the Word of God.

Baptized and washed by God’s grace,
Pr. David Raben

“He saved us…in virtue of his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal in the Holy Spirit, which he poured out upon us richly through Jesus Christ our savior, so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life.”
-Titus 3

Don't worry?

2011-02-25T10:50:00.000-08:00

From Matthew, chapter 6:
Jesus said, "I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, or about your body, what you will wear...Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them..."

In our age of high unemployment and budget cutting in our government, do the words of Jesus sound a bit idealistic or even naive? Each day we get messages about our economy which makes us anxious and afraid for the future. At the same time we are bombarded with advertising pleading with us to purchased a new television, the latest smart phone, or a new SUV. This seems to be a perfect storm for anxiety.

Do not worry? Consider the lilies of the field?? This talk can sound like some 1960s era flower-child mantra. Don't worry, live for today?

The main point Jesus is proclaiming in this Sermon on the Mount is that the Kingdom, the rule, the reign of God is in their midst. Living in the present is more than a coping trick in order to get you through a rough day. Living in the present will help us discover this marvelous gift of life. To live in the present means that we open our tense and tight-closed hands in order to receive God's grace, love, and mercy.

It is when I take time for relationships, to be with family, friends, and a small group of persons; it is in this place, I feel my anxieties melt into laughter, conversation, and sharing our common struggles together. St. Mary's is gathering in small groups for Lent. Please pray and consider joining one of our small groups or a group in your own congregation. Life can be stressful. Living one day at a time is easier said than done. But walking along with others will make the journey easier. Do not worry about your life? Let's get together and talk about that!

enemy

2011-02-18T09:33:00.000-08:00

From Matthew 5:43-45

"You have heard that it was said, 'You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.' But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you, so that you many be children of your Father in heaven; for he makes his sun rise on the evil and on the good, and sends rain on the righteous and on the unrighteous..."

Remember, this is the "turn the other check" section on this famous sermon of Jesus. Tough stuff. IMPORTANT: please remember the context of this message. The listeners were under occupation by Imperial Rome. This non-violent response to oppression made love a powerful option in transforming their world. Like Dr. King in our civil rights history and Gandhi's work in India, a non violent action which is clear and consistent can unite a people to bring out the best in the situation. (We pray for a non-violent resolve in Egypt!). I like the Message Bible's take on this: "I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer, for then you are working out of your true selves, you God-created selves....Live generously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you."

I don't live in a violent or an oppressive state. This text, however, does speak to me in that when I encounter the "enemy" i.e., the person who disagrees with me (different than me), I sometimes react in an unhealthy manner or act defensively (or passive aggressively!?)in my behavior. The Message Bible take on this passage gives me a challenge: Love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in me. Wow.

Jesus also understands that it is hard for us to live this until we claim all the ways God has loved and graced us so generously. Live gererously and graciously toward others, the way God lives toward you (vs. 48, Message Bible).

Building for Lent

2011-02-10T12:31:00.000-08:00

Remember watching your children put their toes into the puddles after a summer rain. Laughter, joy, and a new discovery, your child would glow with delight! Jesus invites us to be born anew. Even in a complicated and hectic adult schedule, you need some time for play and laughter. Join a group for Lent.

Watch the announcements at St. Mary's on how to lead or participate in a small group for our renewal.

Join us for Lent

2011-02-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

Have you ever been at a baptism and you were inspired to think about your life beginning anew? It is a small moment of refreshment yet each day is a day of grace, trusting in the promises of baptism.
God’s Word says: you are loved, you are forgiven, you are gifted, come and follow me!

Join a group in Lent and discover what it means to “walk wet” into the waters of grace for each new day. Check out……to get connected.

Come and follow

2011-01-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

Jan.2011.Spirit

My legs felt like rubber. Our physical education class was outside on a first spring-like day in late March. We were doing some track and field activities: running, sprinting, throwing the shot put, etc. It was a work out! Grabbing my shoes from my locker, the gym teacher shouted and motioned to me over to his office. “Now what trouble am I in?” I thought to myself. When I got to his cluttered office, I was surprised by this question: “Have you ever considered going out for track?” I was an awkward adolescent; however, with my long legs I did okay in running distances.

It was powerful thing to be asked. Behind the inquiry was some sense that I had potential. “I could do this!” echoed inside of me as I picked up my books and headed toward English class.

It is a marvelous thing to be asked, included, or invited. In Christian tradition it is called, “vocation.” In Matthew, chapter 4, Jesus calls his disciples as they were casting fishing nets along the sea. Apparently they were professionals when it came to fishing. Jesus, however, could see that they had gifts for sharing God’s love to people. “I will make you fish for people…”

In 2011, consider how God might be calling you. Consider the following:

• Walking Wet: Spirituality of Water and the Word is the title of our Lenten renewal series. Perhaps God is calling you to lead a home group, write a devotion for one day, or take some leadership in this significant event. Watch announcements and web site for more information.
• In 2011 we will be doing a stewardship renewal which will enable us to grow in mission. Let us dream big on how might “grow deeper” in our giving to the less fortunate or to participate more fully with our sisters and brothers in Tanzania.

Each week we are reminded of our mission statement in our worship: “We are God’s people, followers of Jesus Christ, gifted by the Spirit, go pray, love, and serve!” This statement is intended to take shape in our daily lives. Consider your calling; consider the joy of Christ’s invitation to follow!

May the Spirit continue to gift you,

Pr David Raben

Blessed are you

2011-01-27T13:26:00.000-08:00

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain; and after he sat down, his disciples came to him. The he began to speak, and taught them, saying: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are those who morn, for they will be comforted...

In Matthew, chapter 5, Jesus gives his famous sermon on the mount. As many times as I have read these familiar words, the message still startles me. One doesn't think of the "blessed" ones as the poor, those who mourn, the meek, and the persecuted. Nothing about this population appears to be blessed or happy as an old translation read.

Jesus goes around saying the Kingdom of heaven is among you. Perhaps Jesus is trying to tell us that no matter what circumstance we find ourselves in, God is still within and around us. It is also a relief that God meets me in the messy details of life, that I don't have to positive all the time, that even in my times grief and feeling worthless, their is a God bigger than all my problems, in good times and in bad.

Jesus pretty much names everyone in his message: poor, hurting, hungry, thirsty, peacemakers, and persecuted. The Kingdom of Heaven and God's Blessedness is you and God is present in the worst of life.

Bears/Packers and our worldview

2011-01-21T08:14:00.000-08:00

This Sunday is the REAL Superbowl for folks in our state line area. My wife is a Packer fan and I cheer for the other team (she is still trying to reform me). Cheering for your team is fun and competition makes life interesting. But when good debate and, in recent times, our political words, become war-like and bitter, perhaps we need to focus on what unites us. Paul wrote to the Corinthians:

"Now I appeal to you, brothers and sisters, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you be in agreement and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same propose. For it has been reported to me by Chloe's people that there are quarrels among you..." - 1 Cor. 1:10-11

Perhaps being a divided people is nothing new. 50 years ago on Thursday, President John Kennedy, at his inauguration spoke the following words:

“So let us begin anew---remembering on both sides that civility is not a sign of weakness, and sincerity is always subject to proof. Let us never negotiate out of fear, but let us never fear to negotiate. Let both sides explore what problems unite us instead of belaboring those problems which divide us.” –John F. Kennedy, inaugural address, January 20, 1961 (Source: American Rhetoric) taken from Jim Wallis, Sojourners

Good Debate, thoughtful conversation, and making good arguments can benefit us all. When Paul said there should be "no divisions" did not mean uniformity. Christians disagree about the Afghan war, sexuality, taxes, role of government, etc. What Paul meant is that we are united in the Mission of Christ. It is Christ who defines our unity not a consensus on every issue. I give thanks to God that we can disagree on lots of matters. But let us not let these issues divide us on the Gospel, the good news sets us free. This,of course, is easier said than done. The "them vs us" worldview is huge in our society but is fatal for the life and mission of a congregation. Paul's appeal for unity is centered in the proclamation of Gospel. So...let us begin anew in 2011

What are you looking for?

2011-01-13T11:42:00.000-08:00

From John, chapter 1:
The next day John again was standing with two of his disciples, and as he watched Jesus walk by, he exclaimed, "look, here is the Lamb of God!" The two disciples heard him say this, and they followed Jesus. When Jesus turned and saw them following, he said to them, "What are you looking for?"

What are you looking for in your encounter with God? A place to belong? Love? A sense of purpose and meaning in life?

Our mission statement includes the words: Go pray, love, and serve. We will go deep into the Word of God this Lenten season to explore what it means to follow Christ. "What are you looking for?" is a good question.

Our Lenten renewal begins on March 9th. Pray that God will stir things up for us at St. Mary's as we go deep into the Living Word. More to follow about our renewal in the weeks ahead.

born into a family "business"

2011-01-06T06:07:00.000-08:00

From Matthew 3:1-15

Jesus came from Galilee to John at the Jordan, to be baptized by him. John would have prevented him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" But Jesus answered him, "Let is be so now; for it is proper for us in this way to fulfill all righteousness."

I'm confused. If John is practicing a baptism of repentance (remember his strong words of judgment, get your act together, bear fruit lecture), why does Jesus need to be baptized being the Son of God, the one who "knew no sin?" The response of Jesus to John sounds like more mysterious church talk, "to fulfill all righteousness..."

Perhaps, Jesus was leading us into the waters of baptism and into the vocation and work of God. It is God's family business to bring justice, to bring good news to the poor, to bring healing, to restore all of creation. To fulfill all righteousness is really to fulfill the plan of God. Luther, in his Small Catechism focuses on forgiveness of sins and becoming victorious over death. I believe that. Baptism into God's family also gives us a sacred calling, to be the hands and feet of Christ in the world. The Word for this week invites us to go deep into the waters of grace so that we might die to the old self and be raised into the mission of Christ. At St. Mary's we will be exploring what it means to be baptized into God's family during Lent. Our theme: WALING WET: THE SPIRITUALITY OF WATER AND THE WORD. A main experience will be small groups to reflect on the various images and joys of this "water and Word" life together.

Are you the one?

2010-12-10T12:52:00.000-08:00

For Sunday, December 12

When John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his disciples and said to him, "Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?" Jesus answered them, "Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them. And blessed is anyone who takes no offense at me." -Matthew 11:2-6

It is interesting that Jesus responds to John's question with these words. I can't believe John didn't know about the healing, cleansing, and bringing good news to the poor. Perhaps, Jesus spoke these words to remind John's followers of what God's work is really about. John came on the scene crying for repentance, a "clean up your act" talk. John was good at the fire and brimstone thing. The fire of Jesus, on the other hand, is a fire of healing and restoring. In my spiritual life, I probably need a strong reminder of repentance, waking up to the urgency of God's program of justice and righteousness. I also know that I need to hear of word of grace and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit which transforms me from the inside out.

Perhaps every church meeting and gathering might begin with Jesus' answer for John; the blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed...a good reminder of our mission.

welcome one another

2010-12-03T11:21:00.000-08:00

"May the God of steadfastness and encouragement grant you to live in harmony with one another, in accordance with Christ Jesus, so that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome onw another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God." Romans 15:5-7

Advent is a time of hospitality. Invitations are made for Christmas parties, family from distant places arrive, the guest room - or sleeper sofa - is prepared...the season is about welcome, even with all the hectic "to-dos" we still find joy in being with others. I hope that you find that hospitality and Paul's benediction wherever you gather this weekend: "welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ welcomed you."

Repent

2010-12-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

From Matthew 3:1-3...
In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near." This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, "The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: 'Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.'"

The word, "repent" is abrupt and always get my attention. Cartoons sometimes depict a ragged street preacher carrying a heavy placard with the inscription, repent. Whatever connotation this word stirs up in you, it is helpful to consider Frederick Buechner's definition: "To repent is to come to your senses. It is not so much something you do as something that happens. True repentance spends less time looking at the past and saying, 'I'm sorry,' than to the future and saying 'Wow!'"

I hope that in your busy days of Advent, you find time to say "Wow!"

Anticipation of the Word

2010-11-30T11:30:00.000-08:00

From Isaiah 11:1-3,
"A shoot shall come out from the stump of Jesse, and a branch shall grow out of his roots. The spirit of the Lord shall rest on him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord. His delight shall be in the fear of the Lord."

Isaiah is a poet and prophet who speaks of word of hope to a broken nation. Advent is a time to anticipate God's work to bring peace and justice to the world. The prophets tend to point to the future. On my worst days, I tend to dwell on the past: what I should have, would have done...it usually is about past mistakes, self-justifications, and excuses. Advent is a time to anticipate a new reality, to imagine a new world, to enter into a new kind of citizenship in God's kingdom.

"...a branch shall grow out of his roots," reminds me to look carefully for new growth in the world, to look to the future, to await the coming of the Lord.

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-11-24T06:55:00.000-08:00

All are invited to St. Mary's Lutheran for Thanksgiving Eve worship at 7 pm. The following quote is from Abraham Lincoln in his National Thanksgiving Proclamation in 1863:

"...It has seemed to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently, and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American people. I do, therefore, invite my fellow-citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next as a day of thanksgiving and praise of our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the heavens. And I recommend to them that, while offering up the ascriptions justly due to his for such singular deliverances and blessing, they do also, with humble penitence for our national perverseness and disobedience, commend to his tender care all those who have become widows, orphans, morners, or sufferers in the lamentable civil strife in which we are unavoidably engaged, and fervently implore the interposition of the almight hand to heal the wounds of the nation, and to restore it, as soon as may be consistent with the Divine purposes, to the full enjoyment of peace, harmony, tranquility, and union."

For the healing of the nation, Lincoln understood our need not only to give thanks but also for prayer and "humble penitence" so that we might seek God's leading into peace and union. May you, your family, tribe, and nation experience thanksgiving which leads to God's peace.

Reigning Christ Sunday-Nov. 21

2010-11-19T10:33:00.001-08:00

Gospel is Luke 23:33-43
It is an interesting gospel reading for Christ the King Sunday: We find Jesus dying on the cross. The last place we expect to find a king is between two thieves gasping for his final breath. When one thinks of a king, why not read about Jesus calming the raging wind and storm at sea, what about Jesus on the mountain with foreboding cloud, lightening coming down…perhaps Jesus ascending into heaven…NOW, THAT’S BIG STUFF?! What is the deal with Jesus on the cross, this is the last place we might look to find a king. Today’s text is like walking into a dark room, it’s like trying to get my eyes to adjust to the darkness, to refocus on the dying Christ the King.
We are often fascinated with the BIG, the rich, and the powerful. Images of Kings and Kingdoms are royally big and monumental.Here God's power is revealed in weakness and defeat. God's way is not our way. God comes to us in Jesus who enters into our world, eats with sinners, associates with the outcasts, and chose 12 followers who didn't look very spiritual or heroic most of the time. The Word of God invites us to the cross where there is forgiveness (Father, forgive them...), love (for God so loved the world...), and the transforming love of God. But this is where God meets us, in our broken lives, empty promises, relationships in shambles.
God's embrace at the cross is the welcome for the entire world. Come and experience the power of God's love and enter into the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Have a blessed Christ the King Sunday!

Sunday, Nov. 14th

2010-11-12T13:30:00.000-08:00

GOSPEL: Luke 21

5When some were speaking about the temple, how it was adorned with beautiful stones and gifts dedicated to God, he said, 6As for these things that you see, the days will come when not one stone will be left upon another; all will be thrown down.

In Sunday's gospel reading, Jesus has some words of warning for his followers. He tells them that there will be difficult days ahead: destruction of the city, earthquakes, war, insurrections, imprisonment, famine, plagues, betrayal. It sounds like our world today. At the end of all this gloom and doom talk, he tells them, "But not a hair on your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls."

This doesn't sound like a good recruitment speech for attracting disciples! It is true that followers of Jesus, inspite of hardship, became the holy church of God in the world.

Prayer of the day:
O God, the protector of all who trust in you, without you nothing is strong, nothing is holy. Embrace us with your mercy, that with you as our ruler and guide, we may live through what is temporary without losing what is eternal, through Jesus Christ, our savior and Lord. Amen.

Healing Service: Saturday, Nov.6 at 5pm

2010-11-03T13:25:00.001-07:00

For all who suffer in mind, body, and soul, are invited to attend our fall healing service. All are invited to the altar for prayer and anointing of oil. All are welcome!

The truth will set you free

2010-10-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

In this season of political campaigns, it is hard to know which candidate is telling the truth especially when the ad refers to her or his opponent. I know that there are "fact-checking" sites on the internet but I have not taken time to research every candidate. The gospel for this Sunday speaks about truth. Jesus says, "If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free." (John 8:31-36). I believe that Jesus is speaking not of some "fact" or piece of information, but a truth which can only be experienced in a relationship of trust, dying and rising with Christ. The living word of God continues to call us into the Body of Christ so that we might experience forgiveness, healing, and comfort in our suffering. The other tricky word in this text is "free." To be made free can mean many things especially in our culture where we want to be indepentant from large goverment or corporate influences. Part of our longing might be financial independance, to be free to acquire material weath. Jesus, I believe, is speaking of a freedom from all that might enslave us and keep us from God and the work of the Church. While traveling in east Africa, I experienced, again and again, the extravagant hospitality from villages and congregations, people who had little in terms of worldly weath. I was humbled by their gracious welcome. To truly be free is to welcome the stranger and enter into the work of Christ. How are you experiencing this freedom? How are you being set free as the Word of God comes to you?

Medical Missionary

2010-10-27T17:20:00.000-07:00

After Sunday worship in Usa River, Tanzania that was a big dinner at the Rehabilation Center. I was able to meet Dr. Jacobson and his wife Linda. It is inspiring to learn about those who give their passion and vocation for God's work. Check out his story:

http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/week1047/profile.html

National Parks

2010-10-25T14:12:00.000-07:00

After touring the Meru Diocese we visited some national parks. We saw wildlife, plants, birds in their natural setting. Our guide was well educated from a university and could identify every bird and animal. The baobob tree was a distictive sight on the hills surrounding the valleys.

vocational schools

2010-10-25T14:06:00.000-07:00

Many young people migrate toward urban areas from the savannahs and rural areas. It is important for each one to learn a trade that will help them in the cities. The Lutheran schools taught courses in computers, auto mechanics, electical installation, tayloring, woodworking, and business classes.

Dr. Julius

2010-10-25T14:02:00.000-07:00

I was able to visit Dr. Julius Mollel. St. Mary's congregation provided Julius with a scholarship for medical school. He is now one of two doctors at the Ngorangka Hospital. We were able to get a tour of the hospital and talk with some of the staff.
For more information on Dr. Julius:

http://home.earthlink.net/~sllindberg/Dr%20Julius%20page.html

Orphanage

2010-10-25T13:56:00.000-07:00

Neear

Up the hill from Nkoranga Hospital is an orphanage. When we arrived a nurse opened the door and the children gathered around us in masses, all wanting to be picked up and held. Some parents have died because of HIV/AIDS. Driving around the city of Arusha, I saw many signs for other orphanages.

contrasts

2010-10-25T13:51:00.000-07:00

The northern part of Tanzania is a land of contrasts. The roads were ruts, rocky, and clouds of dust followed you everywhere. Most people traveled by foot or bicycle. The schools of the Lutheran diocese often had some colorful landscaping.

Mt Meru

2010-10-25T13:45:00.000-07:00

One day we traveled narrow switchback roads to churches on Mt. Meru. At one time the mountain was a large coffee plantation owned by the Germans. Now each family has a small plot of land on which they have some banana trees, coffee trees, maze, etc. Most household will have a few chickens and maybe a cow teathered to a tree. In the photo I am standing with Mt Meru in the background.

Maasai Culture

2010-10-25T13:37:00.000-07:00

On the first day we traveled several kilometers to the north, across a large and dusty savannah. When we arrived at the church, a choir welcomed us with music. The Maasi tend herds of cattle and goats. The cows provide blood and milk for them to drink. Where there was some water, I saw small plots of tomatoes and cucumbers. Many of the men wanted to show us their knives which they are able to carry after they reach adulthood.

welcome to Tanzania

2010-10-25T13:30:00.001-07:00

Each day our delegation visited a district in the Meru Diocese. A district would include several main congregations, several "preaching points" led by lay evangelists, a medical dispensary, primary and secondary schools, and some vocational schools. I was impressed how the church in Tanzania cared for the whole person.

Meru, Tanzania in east Africa

2010-10-21T01:34:00.000-07:00

When we arrived in Kilimanjaro airport our delegation with greeted by Bishop Akyoo, his staff, and a church choir. The took us by bus to the guest house in Usa River. Easch day we would travel to one of the five districts of the diocese to visit congregations, vocational schools, secondary schools, a hospital, orphanage. At each stop we were received as if we were royalty. Soft drinks, coffee, and bottled water was served before a meal of beef, fruit, rice, and potatoes. Because we were traveling with a bishop, each host roasted a goat over a fire. It was an honor. Highlights of the trip so far:
1) Arriving at the orphanage at Nkoranga, children hurled themseves at us, each wanting to be held. A nurse was holding a baby whose mother died the privious day.
2) I was able to meet Dr. Julius Mollel. St Mary's foundation was able to provide a scholarship for him to attend medical school. He is one of two doctors at Nkoranga Hospital. He took me to his home congregation, Valaska Lutheran Church which is about 35 kilometers from the hospital.
I will add more when I find internet.
Pr David Raben

leaving for Tanzania

2010-10-13T04:31:00.000-07:00

Today I am leaving for the Mt. Meru area in Tanzania, Africa. I am participating in the bishop's delegation from the Greater Milwaukee Synod. The main purpose of the trip is to gain education about our partnership in mission. I have much to learn about Christianity in this part of the world. I expect to see many living in poverty yet I know I will encounter people who are filled with hope and joy. A century ago missionaries from Europe and North America traveled to east Africa to "bring the Gospel." Today, we seek more of a partnership, both parties learn from each other, both see Christ revealed in each others' culture. I look forward to meeting Dr. Julius with whom St. Mary's congregation in Kenosha has had on ongoing relationship. We will be participating in an ordination service which will be interesting. Pray for safe travel for the delegation. Pray for the welfare of our sisters and brothers in Meru.

I will add comments to this blog as I am able to find internet.

seed

2010-10-01T04:12:00.000-07:00

The apostles said to the Lord, "Increse our faith!" The Lord replied, "If you had faith the size of a mustard seed, you could say to this mulberry tree, 'Be uprooted and planted in the sa,' and it would obey you....' " -Luke 17 5-6

We are always impressed with big stuff. We are impressed with fame and those who are powerful. Jesus draws our attention from the the supersized things of life to a mustard seed. Like a lot of his words, it takes me a while to follow his teaching. The apostles asked that their faith might be increased. Jesus responds with this talk about a seed. Perhaps he is suggested that the small things in life might have great potention to grow into something massive and marvelous? In college I dreamed of doing "big" things. It seems, though, that God, through the years has blessed me with small things: changing diapers, making coffee for my wife each morning, getting children to school and activities...living one day at a time. All these daily things are small but have grown into a family over the years. My oldest daughter is out of college and preparing for her career (big stuff!). Each day there are small things we do and experience which create the big things in life. With God's grace and eyes of faith we might see the "big" things of God's kingdom in our midst.God,help us to fall in love with the little details of our lives!

Trip to Tanzania

2010-09-29T06:47:00.000-07:00

Jambo!

In Tanzania, you say “Jambo!” for hello. On October 13 I will be leaving with the bishop’s delegation to Meru, Tanzania. We will worship with fellow Christians; visit a hospital, orphanage, farms, villages, a seminary, and some national parks. Many of you don’t realize that our synod (a cluster of Lutheran congregations in the Milwaukee, Racine, and Kenosha are) has had an on-going partnership. Many of their pastors, leaders, and people have visited us and we have sent folks to learn from them as well. A fair-trade coffee project has helped farmers get more from their harvest. We have also learned from their witness and passion for evangelism. Some congregations in our synod have developed partnerships with congregations in Meru. St. Mary’s helped fund medical school costs for Dr. Julius Mollel, who practices medicine in Tanzania.

Pray for our delegation as we travel and learn more about the Lutherans of Meru. Let us continue to pray for our sisters and brothers in Tanzania and how our partnership might benefit the church and build up the Kingdom of God.

Your rafiki (friend) in Christ,

Pr David Raben
St. Mary's Lutheran Church
Kenosha, WI

The rich man and Lazarus

2010-09-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

"There was a rich man who was dressed in purple and fine linen and who feasted sumptuously every day. And at his gate lay a poor man named Lazarus, covered with sores, who longed to satisfy his hunger with what fell from the rich man's table; even the dogs would come and lick his sores. The poor man died and was carried away by the angles to be with Abraham. The rich man also died and was buried..."
-Luke 16:19-22

The stark contrast between the rich and poor jumps out at us. In front of a luxury hotel, a homeless man shuffles through the midst of well dressed patrons. We read about the disparity between the people of privilege and the masses of poor in our world. In the words of Jesus, we are reminded that we live in a divided world, sometimes those two worlds collide in our neighborhood.

I don't believe this parable suggests that wealth is bad or that all people should make the same income. Jesus does speak a lot about wealth in the gospels, not to condemn wealth but he challenges us to consider the dangers of wealth and how it insulates or separates us from others. When wealth becomes more important than relationships we turn in on our greed and material stuff which will not satisfy us in the end. Perhaps Jesus is responding to the religious leaders whom Luke describes as "lovers of money" in 16:14. Perhaps this obsessive focus on wealth, accumulation, and status has taken them from the joy of God's grace? Is my "stuff" keeping me from really being free to love God and my neighbor? Perhaps that is not true for you, but the words of Jesus help me take a spiritual inventory. Jesus calls rich and poor to repent, to turn from fear and greed to life, trusting that God will provide all we need.

Shrewd

2010-09-17T06:31:00.000-07:00

"And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted strewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light...Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much..."
In Luke 16, Jesus teaches using the parable of the shrewd manager, suggesting that followers of God need to be clever and savvy with spiritual treasures as they are with their daily dealings in business. With faith and religion, we often take for granted this great gift of grace and redemption. "I grew up in this congregation, my parents were charter members..." the idea is that "I am entitled" to a privileged place. Spiritual practice is like good business, always engaged in growing deeper, becoming more humble, more open to the expanding Kingdom of God. One cannot assume that you have a "privileged" place in the market in your business, likewise in our life of discipleship. It takes an intentional daily practice. Not everything in commercial activity, I think Jesus would say, is helpful. Often we are motivated by greed and conquest in our business pursuits. I think what Jesus is pointing to is that we are engaged, day to day, with spiritual practice, we are disciples, not just consumers of a faith. The parable in Luke 16 has a lot of difficult "pieces" to it. In verse 13 Jesus says, "No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth." As we gather this weekend to hear the word and share in a simple meal at the altar, these words of Jesus might take some time to digest. Come and enter again into the mystery of God's love and grace, it is life-giving and powerful!

getting lost: the fruits of failure

2010-09-08T07:47:00.000-07:00

Barbara Brown Taylor, in her book, "Altar in the World," has a chapter on "The Practice of Getting Lost." WHen she first moved to the rural northern part of Georgia from the busy life of Atlanta, she noticed a herd of white cows near their county home. The cattle would predictably follow the same dusty paths from clover patches, to the watering hole, and by late afternoon, find their way to clump of shade trees. In lock step, the bovines, would retrace their steps each day. She observed, we tend to do the same, driving our shortest routes, doing our errands, and shopping. We like the safety and predictablity. We, like cows, like our routines. This Sunday, Jesus tells the parables about the lost sheep and the woman who lost her coin. Perhaps this reading will help us step out of our safe routines and to name the many ways we have been lost in life.

As Christians, we detest being lost, especially in our spiritual lives. Taylor suggests that being lost and reflecting on our failures, with God's help bring a particular kind of transformation. "Popular religion focuses so hand on spiritual success that most of us do not know the first thing about the spiritual fruits of failure. When we fall ill,lose our jobs, wreck our marriages, or alienate our children, most of us are left alone to pick up the pieces. Even those of us who are ministered to by brave friends can find it hard to shake the shame of getting lost in our lives. And yet if someone asked us to pinpoint the times in our lives that changed us for the better, a lot of those times be wilderness times." p. 78

Although we like to give the appearance of success, we each experienced that dark place of failure, we need to hear again, that God welcomes us back. Perhaps knowing this grace and forgivness, we might venture out and create new pathways, take risks for the mission of Christ in the world. Jesus calls his followers to be bold in sharing his love in the world and this boldness may call us to new places.

I have received joy and encouragement

2010-09-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

From Philemon, 1-21:
"When I remember you in my prayers, I always thank my God because I hear of your love for all the saints and your faith toward the Lord Jesus. I pray that the sharing of your faith may become effective when you perceive all the good that we may do for Christ. I ahve indeed received much joy and encouragement from your love, because the hearts of the saints have been refreshed through you, my brother."

This past week you have heard much about the city of New Orleans because of the 5 year anniversary of hurricane Katrina. Chicago Tribune ran a large piece on the neighborhoods that still need to be rebuilt and spoke of all the political struggles the city has experienced. What that article and others did not include was the fact that thousands of volunteers have come to the gulf area to rebuild homes. Our congregation has developed a partnership with Peace Lutheran in Slidell (north of New Orleans) and have participated in Habitat for Humanity. In the Scriptures, Paul gives thanks to God for his brothers and sisters and that their faith has taken shape in the form of love and hospitality. Over that past few years, we at St. Mary's have given thanks to God for the faith, love, and hospitality we have found at Peace congregation. Please consider joining us as we travel to New Orleans Feb.26-March 4. Please email me for more information: draben@stmaryslutheran.org

Thanks to all who made our community fest a success!

2010-08-31T14:24:00.000-07:00

Thanks to everyone who helped make our community fest a great day!

"Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality..." Hebrews 13:2

Community Fest This Sunday, Aug. 29, 11:30-4

2010-08-25T09:22:00.000-07:00

From Hebrews 13:1-2
"Let mutual love continue. Do not neglect to show hospitality to the stranger, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it."

This Sunday, St. Mary's will host a community fest which will be open to the community. It will have food, music, games and activities for children, fun things to do for all ages. It will be a great place to connect with friends and an opportunity to meet new friends. Our theme for the year is "Get Connected." Relationships are important to God and the mission of Christ at St. Mary's. Invite your friends, neighbors, and coworkers.

Lenten Renewal Information on Small Groups

2010-08-25T08:04:00.001-07:00

Get Connected…
PRAY, LOVE, AND SERVE: A VISION FOR LENT 2011

We are a congregation that is
• Passionate in prayer and worship
• Connecting in small groups to experience God’s love, and
• Growing a greater mission through serving and generous giving.

In keeping with this vision for the future, I propose that Lent of 2011 be a time of special focus on renewing our congregation in its faith practice. The purpose of this renewal is to invite both members and non-members to experience an intentional time for spiritual conversation and prayer in order that we love God and neighbor in a deeper way, thus, building up the Body of Christ so that we might be renewed in mission. This 40 day renewal would include the following:

• Establish a leadership team to start planning for this renewal event. This team should represent new as well as established members in our congregation. Pastors David and Brian will work closely with this team to provide encouragement and leadership.
• Read a book as a congregation during the season of Lent. This book would be selected by the staff and the leadership team. It would be a text that would engage participants’ interest and allow for good conversation in small groups.
• Create several small groups (connection groups?) to meet weekly during Lent. These groups could meet in homes, restaurants, workplace, or at the church building. Each week the congregation would read the same chapter and have a common set of discussion questions. Being that most people are already stressed out with daily commitments of work, school, sports, and church meetings, we would “clear the calendar” at St. Mary’s to allow a time of focus and joyful engagement. A typical small group gathering would use the following model:
1. Simple hospitality (no dinners or elaborate entertaining; beverages and a simple snack would do!)
2. Begin with a “check-in” or “icebreaker” that would allow each person to talk briefly and be aware of each other’s needs when you are together.
3. Review a short outline of a chapter in the book. Perhaps we might even have a DVD of a brief talk. No long lectures because the focus of these gathering is conversation. Each group would have a list of thought questions that would engage all members in the conversation.
4. Close with sharing prayer requests in the group.
5. Limit your time together to 90-100 minutes. If groups run late, you may lose members. Each person should leave “hungry” for the next meeting!

• Recruit and train group leaders/hosts in the fall of 2010. Groups could be existing committees, choirs, circles, or book groups. I would expect that many new groups would form. A special emphasis would be placed on members who are not already connected to a group or ministry of the congregation.
• Develop a strategy for parents of small children. Should we have a family night with activities for the children in the gym? A special focus will be made to accommodate this segment of our congregation.
• Reinforce weekly themes through the following approaches:
1. Daily devotions on St. Mary’s blog, website, or mass email.
2. The weekly liturgy, music and sermons will allude to the content of the week. With 3 lectionary texts and a psalm, it is possible to include references to the 40 day renewal and what is happening in the connection groups.
3. Visual arts in the worship area or fellowship hall will celebrate our renewal event. Perhaps banners, a “graffiti” wall with comments on the theme, artwork, or video would make our experience more inviting!

• Focus on a particular mission, e.g., mission partner in Tanzania, the eradication of malaria, or another “connection” to global missions or a local mission such as ELCA Urban Outreach.
• Train group leaders in facilitating healthy home conversations considering the following:
Marks of a healthy small group

• Have a clear purpose or mission statement (consistent with the mission statement of St. Mary’s church)
 Open each meeting by showing mutual support, i.e., pray for each other, do a “check-in” like sharing highs and lows for each participant.
 Have clear expectations about commitment to the group. Make sure that it is clearly defined; help each other to be accountable.
 Create a “safe” environment by listening without being judgmental, asking “clarifying” questions and keeping confidential what others disclose about themselves.
 Communicate to the church office details of meeting times, places.
 Build trust by being vulnerable, asking questions, expressing honest doubts, and including all in a caring conversation.
 Avoid gossip; always defend your neighbor’s actions in the kindest way.

Pr. David Raben draben@stmaryslutheran.org

stand up

2010-08-19T13:57:00.000-07:00

From Luke 13:10ff:

Now Jesus was teaching in one of the synagogues on the sabbath. And just then there appeared a woman with a spirit that had crippled her for eighteen years. She was bent over and was quite unable to stand up straight. When Jesus saw her, he called her over and said, "Woman, you are set free from your ailment." When he laid his hands on her, immediately she stood up straight and began praising God."

18 years is a long time. A generation. There a lot of chronic ailments that can affect a family or an individual: alcoholism, long periods of depression, cancer that comes back again and again. It is quite normal for one to be worn down by illness and the crazy cycles of dysfunction in families. It is quite normal to loose expectations for change. The healing stories of Jesus are difficult for me to understand but they point to God who is ultimately in control of this world. Perhaps the reference to posture in significant in Luke's reading. Perhaps, as we stand up, our eyes look more to God than our problems.

Each Sunday in worship, when the Gospel is proclaimed, the congregation stands. We stand with the woman who suffered for 18 years. We stand for the many who are yet to be healed. In our standing, we expect God will give us what we need.

Mary, mother of our Lord

2010-08-13T10:59:00.001-07:00

This Sunday, children who participated in our summer music camp will sing several songs at the 9 and 10:30 am worship. The Bible readings for the day will focus on Mary, mother of Jesus. Two important readings are Galatians 4:4-7 and Luke 1:46-55. Mary is important to Christians because she points to the saving work of God in Jesus Christ. It is interesting that Luke records Mary's song (the Magnificat) which connects the saving work of God down through the ages and as an introduction to the coming birth of Jesus. Mary, with humility and joy, sings of God's faithfulness to the whole human family. I will focus on the following points in my message:

1.) Mary's song of praise points to the fact that we were created for relationships. An infant's first words are often, "mama" or "daddy" and his or her primitive voice begins to connect them with parents and a loving family. Our praise and prayers to God connects us to a loving Lord. Our language, songs, and liturgy, over time, bind us to God and a faith community.

2.) Mary's song points us to Jesus, the one who claims us as children of God. Paul wrote to the Galatians in chapter 4, "...you are no longer a slave but a child, and if a child then also an heir, through God..." Because of God's saving work in Jesus we are adopted into a family of faith. Mary, in her praise, points to the "mothering" work of God, a parent who claims, loves, heals, forgives, and restores all who believe.

3.) Mary's song of praise also directs us to God's saving work in the world. In Luke gospel, Mary proclaims that "He...has brought the powerful from their thrones, and lifted up the lowly; he has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent alway empty (vss. 52-53). The tyrants and slave masters will no longer have rule in God's kingdom. In the mission of Christ, we are empowered to live and work among the lowly, share bread with the hungry, and participate in God's dream for a new world. Mary's song connects us to the ways God will restore all of creation.

"My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior..."

Come and worship the Savior this weekend with us!

treasure

2010-08-05T11:54:00.001-07:00

Jesus said, "Do not be afraid, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to five you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give alms. Make purses for yourselves that do not wear out, an unfailing treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, your heart will be also. -Luke 12:32-40

"Faith" is often a word that denotes choice or preference, Protestant or Catholic? one might be asked. The word "faith" is often used to describe affiliation or membership. Jesus, however, commends a faith that trusts in God's grace. I like the word "trust" much better. In Luke's gospel above, Jesus asks us to "give alms" so that we might be set free from fear. David Lose of Luther Seminary comments: "What Jesus is commending is faith-faith that frees one to be generous; faith that enables one to leave anxiety behind; faith that creates in one confidence about a future secured not by human endeavor or achievement but by God alone."-www.workingpreacher.org

Let's leave anxiety behind...now that is a real treasure!

barn not big enough?

2010-07-30T11:30:00.000-07:00

And Jesus said to the, "Take care! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; for one's life does not consist in the abundance of possessions." Then he told them a parable: "The land of a rich man produced abundantly. And he thought to himself, 'What should I do, for I have no place to store my crops. Then he said, 'I will do this: I will pull down my barns and build larger ones, and there I will store all my grain and my goods. And I will say to my soul, Soul, you have ample goods laid up for many years; relax, eat, drink, be merry.' But God said to him, 'You fool! This very night your life is being demanded of you. And the things you have prepared, whose will they be?' So it is with those who store up treasures for themselves but are not rich toward God." -Luke 12:15-21

When my wife and I moved to our new community a few years ago, we decided to move into a condo much smaller than our privious home. It took a great deal of work to give and throw away things (treasures at one time!) things we no longer needed. And into a storage locker went items we thought our girls might want someday: some of their toys, old vinyl music records, a box of old trophies from soccer and t-ball, a large tub of beanie babies, etc.. Like the wealthy man in Luke's gospel, we need a bigger barn or storage locker.

I'm not sure that greed motivated all of these purchases and various items we have accumulated. I do know, however, that it is much easier to seek comfort in stuff than to take the time to make healthy relationships, to be "rich toward God," as Jesus reminds us. What will be your passion and focus this week? More stuff or time to focus on the treasures of God?

This weekend, Christa von Zychlin and Wayne Nieminen will be presenting on their missionary work in Hong Kong. Come and celebrate what God is doing in among Christians in the Mekong River Region.

Ask

2010-07-23T06:30:00.000-07:00

"I say to you, Ask, and it will be given you; search, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened for you. 10For everyone who asks receives, and everyone who searches finds, and for everyone who knocks, the door will be opened. 11Is there anyone among you who, if your child asks for a fish, will give a snake instead of a fish? 12Or if the child asks for an egg, will give a scorpion? 13If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" -Luke 11:9-13

I use a pre-marriage instrument which identifies strengths and weaknesses for couples engaged to be married. It also gets a reading on how skilled each one is at speaking openly about their needs in the relationship. Many men and women, though they love each other, find it difficult to articulate their needs.

What is it hard to ask, to speak, and to listen?

Jesus reminds us that when we ask God for what we need, he is like a good parent. He will not give us something that will harm us.

All you got to do is ask. Keep talking with God this week!

Good and Compassionate Samaritan

2010-07-09T13:44:00.000-07:00

From Luke, chapter 10:
The lawyer asked Jesus, "And who is my neighbor?" In response to this question, Jesus tells the parable of the Good Samaritan. Even people who have no history or connection with church know something of what a good Samaritan is. Canada and United States both have "good Samaritan" laws. This familiar story will be retold again this Sunday. Luke tells us that this lawyer was seeking to "test" Jesus and to "justify" himself in asking these questions to rabbi, Jesus. This sounds like a negative thing but in the culture of the day, it was the practice, in spiritual conversation to test each other to find a spiritual truth. To "justify" oneself, was not defensiveness as in our culture, but to seek the righteous way of the law.
The lawyer's question is still a very good one for us today: Who is my neighbor?

Sunday, July 4th

2010-07-02T08:35:00.001-07:00

Be joyful in the God, all you lands; be joyful, all the earth...Ruling forever in might, God keeps watch over the nations; let no rebels exalt themselves. Bless our God, you peoples, let the sound of praise be heard. -Psalm 66:1-2, 7-8

Jane and I just returned from vacation. We saw first hand the beauty of God's creation in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. The photo above is Jackson Lake as we were driving north on Rockefeller Parkway. The psalm for this Sunday is addressed to the "nations." With all the festivities with Fourth of July, it is good for us to remember God's great love for all the nations, our nation and even those nations who are distant and much different than ours. I give thanks to God for my citizenship with all of its rights and responsibilities. The Scriptures also remind us that God is ruler over all, even the earth (mountains, rivers, forest, and all its beauty) all bow down to worship God. Come to worship this Sunday to give praise to the God of creation, the Lord of the nations. Happy 4th of July!

Exorcism in the graveyard

2010-06-19T05:03:00.000-07:00

This gospel for this Sunday, June 20th, is Luke 8:26-39. Jesus travels to the country of the Gerasenes where he encounters a man who had demons who lives among the graves. Jesus demands, "What is your name?" He replied, "Legion," for many demons had entered him. We often miss the point when we try to apply modern concepts of mental illness or some diagnosis for persons such as these in biblical narratives. The thrust of Jesus' ministry is the kingdom of God, calling all of creation to be reconciled with its Creator. After Jesus heals the demon inflicted man, he tells him to "Return to your home and declare how much God has done for you."

My "demons" are not as dramatic, my maladies are more subtle. Jesus restores me to a new and right relationship with God, family, and community. "Return" is a powerful word used by Jesus.

This Sunday, after we have heard the strong, living Word of Christ and have shared in the Holy Communion, we are to "return" to our daily living. What does this mean for you?