"Thus says the Lord: For three transgressions of Israel, and for four, I will not revoke the punishment;because they sell the righteous for silver,and the needy for a pair of sandals"(Amos 2:6)
One of the things I remember being taught in Seminary was the concept of preferential option for the poor. The basic idea is that God cares very much about how the poor are treated. It isn't that he hates rich people, but he surely pays attention to how they treat those much less fortunate than themselves.
The Bible is full of examples of this, the above is just one. But are we in our day beginning to sell out the poor to get something for ourselves. We are part of the whole human family and when others suffer so that we can have something, then we might want to consider whether God is actually pleased with that.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, June 30, 2017
Reflection for June 29, 2017
"Some were convinced by what he had said, while others refused to believe."(Acts 28:24)
What convinces you of something? Perhaps it was an effective teacher. Maybe a great speaker. Some people read and are convinced. When it comes to faith for me, I can't say that it was any one thing, but a combination of things that has over the years nurtured that growing faith.
It may be different for me because I've been nurtured in the faith from the moment I came out of the womb. So I've heard good preaching but that didn't convince me, I've read the Bible and other writings but that's not what convinced me. I've had good teachers but that is not what convinced me. As I wrote all of those have played a part. So what does convince me?
Living out my faith every day in community, that's what convinces me.
Blessings,
Ed
What convinces you of something? Perhaps it was an effective teacher. Maybe a great speaker. Some people read and are convinced. When it comes to faith for me, I can't say that it was any one thing, but a combination of things that has over the years nurtured that growing faith.
It may be different for me because I've been nurtured in the faith from the moment I came out of the womb. So I've heard good preaching but that didn't convince me, I've read the Bible and other writings but that's not what convinced me. I've had good teachers but that is not what convinced me. As I wrote all of those have played a part. So what does convince me?
Living out my faith every day in community, that's what convinces me.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 28, 2017
" When the natives saw the creature hanging from his hand, they said to one another, “This man must be a murderer; though he has escaped from the sea, justice has not allowed him to live.” (Acts 28:4)
The eternal question has always been why do bad things happen to good people. For so long bad things happening were usually seen as a punishment for doing something bad. Then of course we began to notice that bad things happen to people who are actually good. And from there comes the question.
The presence of a large military force guarding Paul probably added to the original conclusion that he was a murderer. But then when the usual reaction to a viper bite didn't occur, they had to come up with a different answer.
The term being snake bit usually means having unexpected bad luck. But the question becomes how do we take that momentary affliction and turn it around so that it doesn't destroy us. Maybe like Paul did, we need to shake it off.
Blessings,
Ed
The eternal question has always been why do bad things happen to good people. For so long bad things happening were usually seen as a punishment for doing something bad. Then of course we began to notice that bad things happen to people who are actually good. And from there comes the question.
The presence of a large military force guarding Paul probably added to the original conclusion that he was a murderer. But then when the usual reaction to a viper bite didn't occur, they had to come up with a different answer.
The term being snake bit usually means having unexpected bad luck. But the question becomes how do we take that momentary affliction and turn it around so that it doesn't destroy us. Maybe like Paul did, we need to shake it off.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 27, 2017
"Therefore I urge you to take some food, for it will help you survive; for none of you will lose a hair from your heads.” (Acts 27:34)
All of us have ways we cope with stress. When I'm overstressed I tend to eat, in fact I over eat. So I can't imagine not eating because I was anxious, perhaps if I was just really busy, and then still not for even a whole day.
Sadly most of our coping mechanisms aren't usually very healthy or helpful. But unless we are on a hunger strike not eating won't help us get through whatever is going on. We need bread for the journey.
Blessings,
Ed
All of us have ways we cope with stress. When I'm overstressed I tend to eat, in fact I over eat. So I can't imagine not eating because I was anxious, perhaps if I was just really busy, and then still not for even a whole day.
Sadly most of our coping mechanisms aren't usually very healthy or helpful. But unless we are on a hunger strike not eating won't help us get through whatever is going on. We need bread for the journey.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 26, 2017
" When neither sun nor stars appeared for many days, and no small tempest raged, all hope of our being saved was at last abandoned."(Acts 27:20)
I've had a couple of occasions of literally being caught in a storm. Both rain and snow. I've been driving and literally could not see what was in front of me. I find those times to be incredibly stressful. I can feel the tension in my body and the car going all over the place. If you've been in that situation you know that you can feel like you might not make it.
There is also true that in life we can feel like we are caught in the middle of a tempest. Where we can't see a way out. We don't recognize that there may be folks who can help us. We just can't see the light. And perhaps we begin to abandon hope.
As a person of faith even in those moments I strive not to abandon hope, because I've already been saved.
Blessings,
Ed
I've had a couple of occasions of literally being caught in a storm. Both rain and snow. I've been driving and literally could not see what was in front of me. I find those times to be incredibly stressful. I can feel the tension in my body and the car going all over the place. If you've been in that situation you know that you can feel like you might not make it.
There is also true that in life we can feel like we are caught in the middle of a tempest. Where we can't see a way out. We don't recognize that there may be folks who can help us. We just can't see the light. And perhaps we begin to abandon hope.
As a person of faith even in those moments I strive not to abandon hope, because I've already been saved.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 25, 2017
"While he was making this defense, Festus exclaimed, “You are out of your mind, Paul! Too much learning is driving you insane!” (Acts 26:24)
I consider myself a reasonably educated person. I have a Bachelor's and Master's Degree. I regularly go to continuing education courses throughout the year. I also enjoy reading classic novels.
I try to keep myself current on what's going on in the world, and having access to the internet I, like many, can find out all kinds of information quickly. And yet sometimes all this information coming at me on the "information super highway" can be overwhelming. When are minds are constantly engaged, not only are we learning, but we are also churning emotionally. Sometimes too much information can drive you nuts.
There may be times when we just need to disconnect and let our brains take a break. Not for too long, but before our circuits get overloaded.
Blessings,
Ed
I consider myself a reasonably educated person. I have a Bachelor's and Master's Degree. I regularly go to continuing education courses throughout the year. I also enjoy reading classic novels.
I try to keep myself current on what's going on in the world, and having access to the internet I, like many, can find out all kinds of information quickly. And yet sometimes all this information coming at me on the "information super highway" can be overwhelming. When are minds are constantly engaged, not only are we learning, but we are also churning emotionally. Sometimes too much information can drive you nuts.
There may be times when we just need to disconnect and let our brains take a break. Not for too long, but before our circuits get overloaded.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 24, 2017
"When we had all fallen to the ground, I heard a voice saying to me in the Hebrew[d] language, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me? It hurts you to kick against the goads.’ "(Acts 26:14)
Most of us know the expression having our buttons pushed, or being egged on. We know that we can react defensively to these proddings. Goads were long pointed sticks used to move cattle along. So if you are kicking against the goads you'd be accused of going against the direction you're being pushed.
I'm sure there are times in my life where I've fought hard against the push and pull of other people in my life, as they tried to get me to do something. Yet there are other times that those urgings were exactly what I needed to get moving in the direction God wanted me to go.
So have you ever felt goaded by God? If so did you kick back trying to head in a different direction or did you head the way you were meant to go?
Blessings,
Ed
Most of us know the expression having our buttons pushed, or being egged on. We know that we can react defensively to these proddings. Goads were long pointed sticks used to move cattle along. So if you are kicking against the goads you'd be accused of going against the direction you're being pushed.
I'm sure there are times in my life where I've fought hard against the push and pull of other people in my life, as they tried to get me to do something. Yet there are other times that those urgings were exactly what I needed to get moving in the direction God wanted me to go.
So have you ever felt goaded by God? If so did you kick back trying to head in a different direction or did you head the way you were meant to go?
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 23, 2017
" for it seems to me unreasonable to send a prisoner without indicating the charges against him.”(Acts 25:27)
Have you ever been at a loss for words? You need to explain something or justify your actions and yet you draw a blank. You want to be able to complete the task, but you know there may be questions and you don't really have an answer.
You might consider getting some help from another person. Maybe they can see something you're missing, or help by being a sounding board as you try to get it right.
Most of us try to be reasonable, but often just aren't quite sure how to do it.
Blessings,
Ed
Have you ever been at a loss for words? You need to explain something or justify your actions and yet you draw a blank. You want to be able to complete the task, but you know there may be questions and you don't really have an answer.
You might consider getting some help from another person. Maybe they can see something you're missing, or help by being a sounding board as you try to get it right.
Most of us try to be reasonable, but often just aren't quite sure how to do it.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 22, 2017
" And as he discussed justice, self-control, and the coming judgment, Felix became frightened and said, “Go away for the present; when I have an opportunity, I will send for you.” (Acts 24:25)
When was the last time you had a deep conversation with someone? How did you feel during and after? Sometimes engaging in meaningful conversation on interesting topics can be quite fun. There can also be times when the topics begin to hit a little to close to home and your comfort level decreases.
We don't know which of the topics frightened Felix, justice, self-control or the coming judgement. Probably all three. When the topic starts to point to some hidden and unpleasant truths about ourselves we might become frightened also. The hope would be that rather than shutting down the conversation, we take it to heart and see where perhaps we are being given an opportunity to amend our lives.
Blessings,
Ed
When was the last time you had a deep conversation with someone? How did you feel during and after? Sometimes engaging in meaningful conversation on interesting topics can be quite fun. There can also be times when the topics begin to hit a little to close to home and your comfort level decreases.
We don't know which of the topics frightened Felix, justice, self-control or the coming judgement. Probably all three. When the topic starts to point to some hidden and unpleasant truths about ourselves we might become frightened also. The hope would be that rather than shutting down the conversation, we take it to heart and see where perhaps we are being given an opportunity to amend our lives.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 21, 2017
"Therefore I do my best always to have a clear conscience toward God and all people."(Acts 24:16)
Having a clear conscience seems to me to be a worthy goal. One way to do this is to be very honest with oneself. Usually this happens at the end of the day, but what if we held this attitude throughout the day. Will I regret having said or done something.
While we do enjoy freedom of speech in this country I do wonder how this might be better used if we thought about what we are going to say before we open our mouths, or before we press send, or before we tweet.
A clear conscience would mean not having to apologize because we hadn't done anything needing an apology.
Blessings,
Ed
Having a clear conscience seems to me to be a worthy goal. One way to do this is to be very honest with oneself. Usually this happens at the end of the day, but what if we held this attitude throughout the day. Will I regret having said or done something.
While we do enjoy freedom of speech in this country I do wonder how this might be better used if we thought about what we are going to say before we open our mouths, or before we press send, or before we tweet.
A clear conscience would mean not having to apologize because we hadn't done anything needing an apology.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 20, 2017
" That night the Lord stood near him and said, “Keep up your courage! For just as you have testified for me in Jerusalem, so you must bear witness also in Rome.”(Acts 23:11)
When things aren't going well, when I feel like I'm in a rut, it is a hard fight not to get discouraged. I can tell myself at the end of a day that didn't go the way I thought it would, that there's always tomorrow. Sometimes that's true, but I have certainly gone through long periods of stress, and feeling like I'm running into brick walls.
I've also found that when I'm in those ruts, that something or someone gives me a word of encouragement. To keep my courage, or my desire to see something through. I need to be reminded that I've done something before and there is still more to do.
Who encourages you? As people of faith we should be aware of how God walks with us encouraging us. And that can often be the strength needed when the task seems daunting.
Blessings,
Ed
When things aren't going well, when I feel like I'm in a rut, it is a hard fight not to get discouraged. I can tell myself at the end of a day that didn't go the way I thought it would, that there's always tomorrow. Sometimes that's true, but I have certainly gone through long periods of stress, and feeling like I'm running into brick walls.
I've also found that when I'm in those ruts, that something or someone gives me a word of encouragement. To keep my courage, or my desire to see something through. I need to be reminded that I've done something before and there is still more to do.
Who encourages you? As people of faith we should be aware of how God walks with us encouraging us. And that can often be the strength needed when the task seems daunting.
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, June 29, 2017
Reflection for June 19, 2017
" When he said this, a dissension began between the Pharisees and the Sadducees, and the assembly was divided. "(Acts 23:7)
Watching the debate raging in Washington over healthcare is sad, but I admit amusing. Our Senate is currently dominated by one party, and you would think that they should just be able to get things done. They don't even need to worry about what the other party thinks. And yet there is dissension among them.
The truth of most groups is that while they may seem to be of one type there is often some diversity within. And depending on the issue or topic it may be very hard to come to consensus. All can be persuaded by some piece of evidence that speaks to them.
Paul did that here. He needed to get out of a jam. And at first glance he probably didn't see any allies in the room. But once he figured out who was present he knew how to get their focus off him and onto something else.
Sometimes we may find allies in strange places. The key is to find those folks when we need them most.
Blessings,
Ed
Watching the debate raging in Washington over healthcare is sad, but I admit amusing. Our Senate is currently dominated by one party, and you would think that they should just be able to get things done. They don't even need to worry about what the other party thinks. And yet there is dissension among them.
The truth of most groups is that while they may seem to be of one type there is often some diversity within. And depending on the issue or topic it may be very hard to come to consensus. All can be persuaded by some piece of evidence that speaks to them.
Paul did that here. He needed to get out of a jam. And at first glance he probably didn't see any allies in the room. But once he figured out who was present he knew how to get their focus off him and onto something else.
Sometimes we may find allies in strange places. The key is to find those folks when we need them most.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 18, 2017
" But when they had tied him up with thongs,[b] Paul said to the centurion who was standing by, “Is it legal for you to flog a Roman citizen who is uncondemned?” (Acts 22:25)
Most people that I know "wear more than one hat." Not literally a hat, but the various facets of who we are in relationship to others. We usually know which hat we should be wearing in any given situation. We also know when surprises come up which "hat" to put on quickly.
Yes it can sometimes feel like pulling a power move, or name dropping, but it can also be used to get you somewhere you need to be, or if you like perhaps a discount on something.
All of us are as Shrek once said "onions" we are layered. And the complexity of who we are makes us unique.
Blessings,
Ed
Most people that I know "wear more than one hat." Not literally a hat, but the various facets of who we are in relationship to others. We usually know which hat we should be wearing in any given situation. We also know when surprises come up which "hat" to put on quickly.
Yes it can sometimes feel like pulling a power move, or name dropping, but it can also be used to get you somewhere you need to be, or if you like perhaps a discount on something.
All of us are as Shrek once said "onions" we are layered. And the complexity of who we are makes us unique.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 17, 2017
" When he had given him permission, Paul stood on the steps and motioned to the people for silence; and when there was a great hush, he addressed them in the Hebrew[b] language, saying:"(Acts 21:40)
Trying to get people to settle down and listen is sometimes quite a chore. A really noisy moment in our church is the Peace, and when I try to reign it in I'll say "Good Morning." Another favorite that I've seen used at youth events, "and a hush fell over the room."
Of course once you've got folks attention you then need to be able to keep it. You also need to know how to communicate with them in a way they will understand and engage.
For Paul that was literally speaking in Hebrew. For the rest of us it is knowing our "audience" well enough. You don't want to speak over people's heads, nor do you want to dumb things down. But until you can bring the noise level down and get their attention, it really doesn't matter how or what you have to say.
Blessings,
Ed
Trying to get people to settle down and listen is sometimes quite a chore. A really noisy moment in our church is the Peace, and when I try to reign it in I'll say "Good Morning." Another favorite that I've seen used at youth events, "and a hush fell over the room."
Of course once you've got folks attention you then need to be able to keep it. You also need to know how to communicate with them in a way they will understand and engage.
For Paul that was literally speaking in Hebrew. For the rest of us it is knowing our "audience" well enough. You don't want to speak over people's heads, nor do you want to dumb things down. But until you can bring the noise level down and get their attention, it really doesn't matter how or what you have to say.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 16, 2017
"What then is to be done? They will certainly hear that you have come."(Acts 21:22)
It is hard to imagine going someplace where I wouldn't be welcomed. I guess I'm fortunate that my reputation usually doesn't proceed me. There are of course people for whom there presence brings potential conflict. Controversial speakers are invited to speak and those who don't agree with them come unglued. And the authorities wonder what to do.
Leaders may show up in places where support for them is not great, and the authorities again wonder what to do. Perhaps an estranged friend or family member suddenly shows up. What will happen? How will those who have been hurt react to that person's presence.
It is hard to be the person who has to attempt to make the situation tolerable or hopefully enjoyable. But sometimes even the most thorough planning doesn't work.
Blessings,
Ed
It is hard to imagine going someplace where I wouldn't be welcomed. I guess I'm fortunate that my reputation usually doesn't proceed me. There are of course people for whom there presence brings potential conflict. Controversial speakers are invited to speak and those who don't agree with them come unglued. And the authorities wonder what to do.
Leaders may show up in places where support for them is not great, and the authorities again wonder what to do. Perhaps an estranged friend or family member suddenly shows up. What will happen? How will those who have been hurt react to that person's presence.
It is hard to be the person who has to attempt to make the situation tolerable or hopefully enjoyable. But sometimes even the most thorough planning doesn't work.
Blessings,
Ed
Wednesday, June 28, 2017
Reflection for June 15, 2017
"Then Paul answered, “What are you doing, weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound but even to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” (Acts 21:13)
I don't know how I'd react if I were bound and determined to do something that I know wasn't going to end well, but needed to be done. This would be especially hard if prior to going I was surrounded by people crying over me.
It takes a strong will to look disaster in the face and head straight at it, even if you know it will cost you dearly. Again I'm not sure I'd leave the dock.
But it is also true that our bravest moments in life can come when we know there are people behind us, wishing that there was another way, but ultimately letting us go.
I hope I don't face such a harsh reality, but if I ever do, I hope there will be some that cry over me while still supporting me. Even though their sadness will break my heart.
Blessings,
Ed
I don't know how I'd react if I were bound and determined to do something that I know wasn't going to end well, but needed to be done. This would be especially hard if prior to going I was surrounded by people crying over me.
It takes a strong will to look disaster in the face and head straight at it, even if you know it will cost you dearly. Again I'm not sure I'd leave the dock.
But it is also true that our bravest moments in life can come when we know there are people behind us, wishing that there was another way, but ultimately letting us go.
I hope I don't face such a harsh reality, but if I ever do, I hope there will be some that cry over me while still supporting me. Even though their sadness will break my heart.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 14, 2017
" Therefore I declare to you this day that I am not responsible for the blood of any of you,"(Acts 20:26)
Who do you feel responsible for? All of us know that we are first and foremost responsible for ourselves. As a parent I was responsible for bringing my sons up. I certainly feel some level of responsibility towards my wife. And there may come a time when I have responsibility for my parents. As a priest I also have responsibility to my parishioners.
Paul of course is saying he's not responsible if anything goes wrong in his absence since he's given them the tools they need to succeed. And much like most of the responsibilities I listed there's only so much I can do beyond myself.
Blessings,
Ed
Who do you feel responsible for? All of us know that we are first and foremost responsible for ourselves. As a parent I was responsible for bringing my sons up. I certainly feel some level of responsibility towards my wife. And there may come a time when I have responsibility for my parents. As a priest I also have responsibility to my parishioners.
Paul of course is saying he's not responsible if anything goes wrong in his absence since he's given them the tools they need to succeed. And much like most of the responsibilities I listed there's only so much I can do beyond myself.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 13, 2017
"A young man named Eutychus, who was sitting in the window, began to sink off into a deep sleep while Paul talked still longer. Overcome by sleep, he fell to the ground three floors below and was picked up dead."(Acts 20:9)
Have you ever fallen asleep when someone else is talking? Maybe it was in a college class, right after lunch, or during a movie. Hopefully not during a sermon. Frankly mine or too short to fall asleep during.
We are told this story in Acts but there are other factors than Paul going on and on. There were candles it was late. Sitting in an open window probably not a great idea either.
There are times that we need to pay attention. We may also want to consider our own sleep patterns and have a good sense of self to know when we are getting tired. And of course it also helps when the speaker isn't boring.
Blessings,
Ed
Have you ever fallen asleep when someone else is talking? Maybe it was in a college class, right after lunch, or during a movie. Hopefully not during a sermon. Frankly mine or too short to fall asleep during.
We are told this story in Acts but there are other factors than Paul going on and on. There were candles it was late. Sitting in an open window probably not a great idea either.
There are times that we need to pay attention. We may also want to consider our own sleep patterns and have a good sense of self to know when we are getting tired. And of course it also helps when the speaker isn't boring.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 12, 2017
" Meanwhile, some were shouting one thing, some another; for the assembly was in confusion, and most of them did not know why they had come together."(Acts 19:32)
Usually when we find ourselves in a shouting match it is a one on one event. But it can also happen that when two large opposing groups get together and begin shouting at each other that things can get ugly. And of course if this starts to draw in onlookers who then get caught up in the emotion of the moment, things grow exponentially and the tension gets ratcheted up.
And imagine if you walked in on this and you're trying to figure out what all the fuss is about? How hard to get at the issue through all the shouting, in addition to people on the fringes not even sure why they are there to begin with.
I try to avoid these train wrecks, but in our time, they seem to happen often, where people spend more time shouting and talking past each other and most don't even know why they're mad.
Blessings,
Ed
Usually when we find ourselves in a shouting match it is a one on one event. But it can also happen that when two large opposing groups get together and begin shouting at each other that things can get ugly. And of course if this starts to draw in onlookers who then get caught up in the emotion of the moment, things grow exponentially and the tension gets ratcheted up.
And imagine if you walked in on this and you're trying to figure out what all the fuss is about? How hard to get at the issue through all the shouting, in addition to people on the fringes not even sure why they are there to begin with.
I try to avoid these train wrecks, but in our time, they seem to happen often, where people spend more time shouting and talking past each other and most don't even know why they're mad.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 11, 2017
" But the evil spirit said to them in reply, “Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are you?”(Acts 19:15)
One way we can get ourselves in trouble is when we attempt to assert some authority when we don't actually have it. Or if we try to be wiser than we actually are. Attempting to be something we aren't never works out very well.
The evil spirit quoted here recognizes real authority, but not pretenders, and asks a very poignant question "but who are you?" When we know ourselves and are honest about our strengths and weaknesses, we can actually answer that question. It's when we really aren't sure of the answer that we keep trying on personas that may not really fit. And wind up in a bad place.
Blessings,
Ed
One way we can get ourselves in trouble is when we attempt to assert some authority when we don't actually have it. Or if we try to be wiser than we actually are. Attempting to be something we aren't never works out very well.
The evil spirit quoted here recognizes real authority, but not pretenders, and asks a very poignant question "but who are you?" When we know ourselves and are honest about our strengths and weaknesses, we can actually answer that question. It's when we really aren't sure of the answer that we keep trying on personas that may not really fit. And wind up in a bad place.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 10, 2017
"He began to speak boldly in the synagogue; but when Priscilla and Aquila heard him, they took him aside and explained the Way of God to him more accurately."(Acts 18:26)
Have you ever learned something but just enough to get the basic idea? Usually the next step should be to learn the specifics, so that you can then perhaps share it with others.
Sometimes in our enthusiasm our mouths start proclaiming things without having it totally down. The nice thing is when someone with a little more depth of knowledge comes in and gives us the finer points. They can see the desire and the enthusiasm and they know how to polish the rough edges and to correct the parts that we didn't get quite right.
Much of life is like that because we all continually need to grow in what we think we know.
Blessings,
Ed
Have you ever learned something but just enough to get the basic idea? Usually the next step should be to learn the specifics, so that you can then perhaps share it with others.
Sometimes in our enthusiasm our mouths start proclaiming things without having it totally down. The nice thing is when someone with a little more depth of knowledge comes in and gives us the finer points. They can see the desire and the enthusiasm and they know how to polish the rough edges and to correct the parts that we didn't get quite right.
Much of life is like that because we all continually need to grow in what we think we know.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 9, 2017
" Then all of them[h] seized Sosthenes, the official of the synagogue, and beat him in front of the tribunal. But Gallio paid no attention to any of these things."(Acts 18:17)
I'm not much of a protester. While I certainly have opinions about the government, I've never tried to get the governments attention. From what I gather those that do will usually start by bringing their concerns to the proper authorities first, usually via letters or phone calls. And if it seems like no one is paying attention, they might move onto organized protests, usually peaceful.
But there are times when people get too frustrated and decide to get a little more physical, hoping to draw attention. I'm not convinced this actually works other than getting people agitated with the people who chose that course of action. I have yet to see leaders moved to change their minds or pay more attention to the grievance, but usually just they continue to ignore these folks or respond in kind.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm not much of a protester. While I certainly have opinions about the government, I've never tried to get the governments attention. From what I gather those that do will usually start by bringing their concerns to the proper authorities first, usually via letters or phone calls. And if it seems like no one is paying attention, they might move onto organized protests, usually peaceful.
But there are times when people get too frustrated and decide to get a little more physical, hoping to draw attention. I'm not convinced this actually works other than getting people agitated with the people who chose that course of action. I have yet to see leaders moved to change their minds or pay more attention to the grievance, but usually just they continue to ignore these folks or respond in kind.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 8, 2017
"Now all the Athenians and the foreigners living there would spend their time in nothing but telling or hearing something new."(Acts 17:21)
How do you spend your time? When I look at my day, a good chunk is spent working. There is of course the part that is spent sleeping too. But what do I do with the time that isn't spoken for? What do I do to renew myself in body, mind and spirit?
I know that I spend time at the gym and walking to take care of my body. I spend time in intentional prayer and bible reading to take care of my spirit. And I read for pleasure and pay attention to articles that catch my interest to renew my mind. Sometimes I even engage in discussion with others to broaden my perspective.
I will admit that I don't take as much time telling or hearing something new. Mainly because so much of my time is taken up with those other things. But new things and ideas are always popping up looking to be discussed, debated, and then either to catch on or be discarded.
It is true that there are things that seem new, but in many ways or just old things trying to make a comeback.
Blessings,
Ed
How do you spend your time? When I look at my day, a good chunk is spent working. There is of course the part that is spent sleeping too. But what do I do with the time that isn't spoken for? What do I do to renew myself in body, mind and spirit?
I know that I spend time at the gym and walking to take care of my body. I spend time in intentional prayer and bible reading to take care of my spirit. And I read for pleasure and pay attention to articles that catch my interest to renew my mind. Sometimes I even engage in discussion with others to broaden my perspective.
I will admit that I don't take as much time telling or hearing something new. Mainly because so much of my time is taken up with those other things. But new things and ideas are always popping up looking to be discussed, debated, and then either to catch on or be discarded.
It is true that there are things that seem new, but in many ways or just old things trying to make a comeback.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, June 16, 2017
Reflection for June 7, 2017
" When they could not find them, they dragged Jason and some believers[d] before the city authorities,[e]shouting, “These people who have been turning the world upside down have come here also,"(Acts 17:6)
I've never been much of a protester. It is hard for me to imagine that I could lead something where people would fear the presence of the group I was leading. Maybe I'm selling myself short.
There are things that can happen to us where we feel our world is being turned upside down. Where things aren't as we are used to them being and the change happens so quickly that it is disorienting. And the natural reaction, regrettable as it may be, is to find someone to blame and let em have it.
Christians today, and I include myself here, have lost that passion for turning the world upside down. We have become comfortable in holding the status quo, but what happens to us when our world gets turned upside down? How will we respond? Do we look for a scape goat, or do we try to adjust to a new world view?
Blessings,
Ed
I've never been much of a protester. It is hard for me to imagine that I could lead something where people would fear the presence of the group I was leading. Maybe I'm selling myself short.
There are things that can happen to us where we feel our world is being turned upside down. Where things aren't as we are used to them being and the change happens so quickly that it is disorienting. And the natural reaction, regrettable as it may be, is to find someone to blame and let em have it.
Christians today, and I include myself here, have lost that passion for turning the world upside down. We have become comfortable in holding the status quo, but what happens to us when our world gets turned upside down? How will we respond? Do we look for a scape goat, or do we try to adjust to a new world view?
Blessings,
Ed
Thursday, June 15, 2017
Reflection for June 6, 2017
37 But Paul replied, “They have beaten us in public, uncondemned, men who are Roman citizens, and have thrown us into prison; and now are they going to discharge us in secret? Certainly not! Let them come and take us out themselves.”(Acts 16:37)
Have you ever been treated unfairly by someone? Most of us probably have. Sometimes the person who has wronged us feels bad about it and may summon the courage to apologize. But there are also times when they try to send that apology through a third party. Or perhaps that third party is trying to smooth things over by themselves.
Ultimately real apologies can only happen person to person. And if we are the person who has done the wrong we need to summon the courage to go and apologize to that person face to face.
Blessings,
Ed
Have you ever been treated unfairly by someone? Most of us probably have. Sometimes the person who has wronged us feels bad about it and may summon the courage to apologize. But there are also times when they try to send that apology through a third party. Or perhaps that third party is trying to smooth things over by themselves.
Ultimately real apologies can only happen person to person. And if we are the person who has done the wrong we need to summon the courage to go and apologize to that person face to face.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 5, 2017
"A certain woman named Lydia, a worshiper of God, was listening to us; she was from the city of Thyatira and a dealer in purple cloth. The Lord opened her heart to listen eagerly to what was said by Paul."(Acts 16:14)
The notion of listening seems to be hard to do in our time. We seem more eager to speak than to listen. I learn more when I listen, but I can sometimes fall in love with the sound of my own voice.
To have open ears to be able to eagerly listen probably does begin with an open heart. I have to want to deeply hear. And with so much noise and rhetoric circulating it can be hard to hear what God really needs us to hear.
Blessings,
Ed
The notion of listening seems to be hard to do in our time. We seem more eager to speak than to listen. I learn more when I listen, but I can sometimes fall in love with the sound of my own voice.
To have open ears to be able to eagerly listen probably does begin with an open heart. I have to want to deeply hear. And with so much noise and rhetoric circulating it can be hard to hear what God really needs us to hear.
Blessings,
Ed
Friday, June 9, 2017
Reflection for June 4, 2017
" The disagreement became so sharp that they parted company; Barnabas took Mark with him and sailed away to Cyprus." (Acts 15:39)
I try to stay out disagreements. I certainly have them from time to time but I try not to let them get to a place of having to end a relationship of any kind. Of course there are instances where the disagreement does go beyond the point of know return and we just have to go our separate ways.
That is never fun and especially if the relationship was deep and strong up to that point. A break up is not indicative of the depth of a relationship. But things can change along with our perspective on them and thus the disagreement begins. How we handle it determines whether we continue on with the other party.
The Bible has many points where people part company. Even St. Paul was not immune to this. While he didn't stay by himself, you have to wonder if he thought about Barnabas after this blow up. I know I will sometimes think about friends where a parting of ways occurs. And there are times that I wish reconciliation was possible.
Blessings,
Ed
I try to stay out disagreements. I certainly have them from time to time but I try not to let them get to a place of having to end a relationship of any kind. Of course there are instances where the disagreement does go beyond the point of know return and we just have to go our separate ways.
That is never fun and especially if the relationship was deep and strong up to that point. A break up is not indicative of the depth of a relationship. But things can change along with our perspective on them and thus the disagreement begins. How we handle it determines whether we continue on with the other party.
The Bible has many points where people part company. Even St. Paul was not immune to this. While he didn't stay by himself, you have to wonder if he thought about Barnabas after this blow up. I know I will sometimes think about friends where a parting of ways occurs. And there are times that I wish reconciliation was possible.
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 3, 2017
"For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us to impose on you no further burden than these essentials:"(Acts 15:28)
You've heard that phrase getting back to the basics. There is truth in that the basics are the foundation by which we grow as people. Whatever skills we have there is a way that we learned it. Without the basics you don't have much of a foundation.
Another word for this might be essentials. The things you need to have for something to work, to be authentic. This is true of faith. The most essential part of being a Christian is of course believing in Jesus Christ. You can build off that essential.
In your life what is essential for you to be who you are?
Blessings,
Ed
You've heard that phrase getting back to the basics. There is truth in that the basics are the foundation by which we grow as people. Whatever skills we have there is a way that we learned it. Without the basics you don't have much of a foundation.
Another word for this might be essentials. The things you need to have for something to work, to be authentic. This is true of faith. The most essential part of being a Christian is of course believing in Jesus Christ. You can build off that essential.
In your life what is essential for you to be who you are?
Blessings,
Ed
Reflection for June 2, 2017
" Now therefore why are you putting God to the test by placing on the neck of the disciples a yoke that neither our ancestors nor we have been able to bear?"(Acts 15:10)
I'm not a huge fan of hard fast rules. I do like guidelines and flexible boundaries however. The thing with most rules is that someone inevitably finds a way around them, or determines that they apply to everyone except them. Rules often handcuff us, and then we don't know what to do.
When rules become a burden and one to which no one seems to keep, it may be time to revisit, the who, what, where, when and why. For the early church it was about whether you had to be circumcised and keep the torah in order to be a Christian. The answer was ultimately no, but that's not to say that the torah isn't worth taking a look at and finding appropriate applications for ourselves. But we are not bound by it.
I'm glad that the early church saw their dilemma and acted on it. I wish we could in today's church stay away from a legalism that doesn't actually help.
Blessings,
Ed
I'm not a huge fan of hard fast rules. I do like guidelines and flexible boundaries however. The thing with most rules is that someone inevitably finds a way around them, or determines that they apply to everyone except them. Rules often handcuff us, and then we don't know what to do.
When rules become a burden and one to which no one seems to keep, it may be time to revisit, the who, what, where, when and why. For the early church it was about whether you had to be circumcised and keep the torah in order to be a Christian. The answer was ultimately no, but that's not to say that the torah isn't worth taking a look at and finding appropriate applications for ourselves. But we are not bound by it.
I'm glad that the early church saw their dilemma and acted on it. I wish we could in today's church stay away from a legalism that doesn't actually help.
Blessings,
Ed
Monday, June 5, 2017
Reflection for June 1, 2017
"Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them."(Acts 14:18)
We live in a time where words fly around at warp speed. Thanks to social media people are able to impart there feelings quickly and often without thinking them through.
When are words aren't thought out as well as they might be we risk having them come across and interpreted in ways we might not like. Sometimes it is hard to get people to understand you even when you've thought it through.
We can from time to time encounter folks who no amount of words will stop them from doing what they want. Common sense is not received well sadly. And when we ourselves are overstimulated and moving on adrenaline and emotion we have a hard time stopping and pondering.
It's frustrating no matter which side you're on. But there are times that you do the best you can and try to ride it out.
Blessings,
Ed
We live in a time where words fly around at warp speed. Thanks to social media people are able to impart there feelings quickly and often without thinking them through.
When are words aren't thought out as well as they might be we risk having them come across and interpreted in ways we might not like. Sometimes it is hard to get people to understand you even when you've thought it through.
We can from time to time encounter folks who no amount of words will stop them from doing what they want. Common sense is not received well sadly. And when we ourselves are overstimulated and moving on adrenaline and emotion we have a hard time stopping and pondering.
It's frustrating no matter which side you're on. But there are times that you do the best you can and try to ride it out.
Blessings,
Ed
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