Choral Call to Worship Where Children Belong TFWS #2232
Prelude Tell Me the Stories of Jesus UMH #277

Call to Worship (adapted from Psalm 25)
Leader: We are God’s people, called to know and demonstrate the love, mercy and justice of our God.
People: To you, O God, we lift up our souls.
Leader: When the days are bright and laughter fills our hearts we learn to rejoice in God’s steadfast love and faithfulness.
People: Good and upright is the Lord; therefore he instructs sinners in the way. He leads the humble in what is right, and teaches the humble his way.
Leader: When the days are all too dark and we are surrounded by turmoil, injustice and affliction we learn to keep our eyes ever toward the Lord.
People: Relive the troubles of my heart, and bring me out of my distress.
Leader: Now, wait on the Lord.
People: Now, we wait on the Lord.

Hymn of Praise How Firm a Foundation UMH #529

Opening Prayer
Today, God, we confess fumblings and failures in accomplishing Christian unity, as we set aside yet another day to remind ourselves of the task. On this World Communion Sunday, give us eyes to recognize your reflection in the eyes of Christians everywhere. Give us a mind to accept and celebrate our differences. Give us a heart big enough to love your children everywhere. We thank you for setting a table with space enough for us all! Amen.

Anthem

Children’s Moments Jesus Loves Me (in many languages) UMH #191

Old Testament Reading Job 1:1; 2:1-10 Pew Bible p.453

Offering His Name is Wonderful UMH # 174

*Doxologyplease stand UMH #95
Praise God from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.

Hymn of Preparation One Bread, One Body UMH #620

Gospel Reading Mark 10:2-16 Pew Bible p.46

Sermon

Communion (Insert: Bilingual Great Thanksgiving)
UMH #618 Let Us Break Bread Together
TFWS #2261 Life Giving Bread
UMH #640 Take Our Bread

Hymn of Dedication Shalom to You UMH #666

Choral Benediction God Be With You(1verse) UMH #672
Passing the Peace My Life Is in You, Lord TFWS #2032

Fantasy Football has always intrigued me just a little. Simply explained—you put together your own team of professional, real players and compete with others’ teams each week. Your success, or lack of, is defined by players’ performance in their real games.

I tried building a team about 8 years ago. Yea, we didn’t do so well. I didn’t have the time and know-all about players’ ability, etc. So, while I like the idea of a fantasy football team, I’m not good at building one, but…



There have been many times I’ve thought, “I wish (someone from this church) knew (someone from another church).” That got me thinking about a fantasy team—putting together a group of people from different churches to help lead a worship service. Who would be my all-pro liturgist? The story teller who brings a special dynamic to a gospel reading or the calm one who might mess up, but does so ever so elegantly you almost don’t notice?

What about an ushering group? Surely there might be some who might be better off on the bench…er pew. Would we use a four person group or spice it up with a three-man (or woman) rotation? Oh, and where does it all stop? Can we draft choir members and/or piano players as well? Or can we go beyond worship services? What about fundraisers or other projects? I better be careful; it’s not all for certain which spot I might end up on someone else’s team.

Stay blessed…john

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
a time to be born, and a time to die;
a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted;
a time to kill, and a time to heal;
a time to break down, and a time to build up;
a time to weep, and a time to laugh;
a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together;
a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;
a time to seek, and a time to lose;
a time to keep, and a time to throw away;
a time to tear, and a time to sew;
a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;
a time to love, and a time to hate;
a time for war, and a time for peace.

If you ever catch your preacher reading their sermon it’s okay. There’s nothing wrong with that.

In twelve years I’ve heard a few sermons. Quite a few have been given by someone reading word for word a prepared manuscript. Just as many have been given by someone who had no use for notes, an outline or anything pre-prepared. In all these sermons, however, I don’t know I’ve ever questioned someone’s sincerity based on their preferred method of sermon delivery—to manuscript or not to manuscript. There wouldn’t be anything else worth writing about if everyone shared that same idea. To associate the passion, sincerity or faithfulness of someone giving a sermon (there not all given by pastors) with their choice or preference of how they deliver a sermon is a mistake. But it seems to me a common presumption of many.

Following a church service a member was helping clean up the chancel area. The fact I remember a group of people helping with the clean up tells me it must have been a holiday service (Christmas, Easter, etc), but I can’t recall. This particular member came across my typed, double-spaced, already prepared sermon on the pulpit. When our eyes met the member had just finished reading over what was written and replied, “I thought you preached from here (pointing at the heart).” I replied, “I do, but if it’s not here (on paper) you’ll be sitting there (pew) a little longer than you might appreciate.”

The same person preaches the same sermon whether it’s written or not. Why would I, as a listener, suggest that person is offering anything less than what is really on their hearts if their sermon is given (what are other ways to say that: give a sermon, deliver a sermon, preach a sermon…?) one way or the other? Listeners’ preference does not constitute the preacher’s (or whoever) sincerity. Maybe someone else’s sincerity should be called into question? I’ve detracted two paragraphs about that I realized were a bit rantful. I’ll probably post them later.

Here are a couple of thoughts and/or question that come to my mind regarding these two methods of sermon delivery:
1. Is what the sermons says any less true if a manuscript it used?
2. What is wrong with carefully thought out words?
3. If someone practices a sermon to forego using notes, is that insincerity?
4. Who says it’s not from the heart if it’s written down?
5. If preachers go past 20 minutes people get squirmy and accuse the preacher of being wordy; so (see question/thought #2)
6. I have the same kinds of thoughts about writing prayers. Written prayers are from the heart just as much, sometimes more, as a prayer offered off the cuff.

There are many reasons someone would not be comfortable giving a sermon without notes—many good reasons, too. If it’s written down I won’t forget to say it. If it’s written down I’ve had a chance to review it, critique it and challenge what is being said. I can also hear the words myself. Spontaneity’s chance for that only comes when it is too late.

I’m a 20/80 sermonizer (nice word, I thought). Roughly 20 % of the sermons I give are typed and are used during the sermon time to keep me on track. The other 80% of the time I do not use notes. As far as I can recall no one has ever said I was any less sincere when I used the notes. In addition, I really don’t think most people can tell the difference.

So, there’s my thought(s). What are yours? Please leave a comment and share your ideas.

Stay blessed…john

In the sermon yesterday I spoke briefly on the idea many have that the book of Esther is a novella. Novella made me think of soap opera and in my preparation I remembered an old song from….hold on…. Carman. No, his music isn’t my first choice for anything, but was one of my first exposures to Christian music. The song was The Soap Song. It's funny:






Also, as far as I can recall, yesterday was the first time I have sung Lift Every Voice and Sing during a Sunday morning worship service. I love that song; we used to sing it for school plays. So, just for kicks, I’ve gathered a few videos of the song for you today. I listened to these and a few more. Hope the song blesses you, too. Oh, and don’t forget there’s a sermon after the last video :)

Stay blessed…john

Here are some pictures on my computer you might enjoy. Take a moment to laugh; it'll do you well. I don't know where I got them from. So, if you know let me know.

When Are You Due?

Rejection!
The Proper Way to Weigh Yourself
How Spock Got His Ears
The Colonel
Life is Sweet

From Galveston to Irving. No, we're not talking about me. Did you hear about the guy who escaped from the Galveston prison hospital? He made the news in Dallas when he--I believe--robbed a woman in Oak Cliff. Then he was caught in an Irving park.

By TANYA EISERER / The Dallas Morning News
teiserer@dallasnews.com

Authorities captured a 21-year-old state prison escapee in Irving this morning.

Joshua Barnes escaped Saturday from a prison hospital in Galveston, authorities said. He also is suspected of robbing a woman Monday morning at her West Oak Cliff home before fleeing in a white Chrysler PT Cruiser.

Police had initially received a call of a suspicious person in an Irving park this morning. Barnes then fled into a home and later surrendered.

I received in the mail last week the latest edition of The Witness (SWTX Conference Newspaper). It was like getting a letter from home.

There was an article entitled Why Do Men Avoid Going to Church Today? The article raised many of the same issues you find in most relating articles. I thought I would share with you the reasons for lack of male worshipers (men in church?). These were a part of an article from Dean McIntyre, director of music resources for the UM Board of Discipleship. Here is the list:

* Men must watch their language, mind their manners and be extra polite.
* Sunday school teachers are mostly women
* Other than serving on a committee or ushering, there aren’t many “manly” things about church.
* Church expects men to be religious rather than real
* Churches today proclaim a faith consisting of “having an unconditional love relationship” with Jesus, an idea that appeals to women more than men
* Feminization of the church can be traced back to the twelfth century and the rise of the female orders, and when the “Mystic Bernard of Clairvaux popularized the metaphor of the Church as the Bride of Christ.”
* Holding hands and praying, small-group sharing and emotional displays seem more like a “ladies club” than worship that might appeal to a man.
* There are few opportunities for men to hear and talk about life isseus that matter to them: the workplace, responsibilities to wives and families, sports.
* There are very few service opportunities involving activieits such as fixing cars, building and repairing houses, landscaping or maintenance.
* There are more opportunities for giftrs of nurturing and community than for building.
* Male pastoral leaders are diminishing in numbers.
* There is lack of adventure, challenge and “in-your-face” sermons
* Pastors more often develop themes of Jesus’ tender and empathetic side than his strong, confrontational, challenging side.
* Pastors tend to preach long, boring sermons rather than a sermon of shorter segments, punctuated with a song, drama or video clip
* Feminine terminology prevails, talking about the lost and the saved. We talk about he need to have a personal relationship with Jesus rather than a call to hear and take up Christ’s command to “follow me.”

Oak Haven has the highest percentage of active men in church that I have experienced. It's an active, growing group. By the way, the hams will be here before you know it, and they'll be bringing turkeys with them.

What do you think? Why don't more men participate in church and church activities? Stay blessed...john

UMH: United Methodist Hymnal
TFWS: The Faith We Sing

Choral Call to Worship Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus UMH #349
Prelude His Eye Is on the Sparrow TFWS #2146

Leader: Think of the times in life this week you knew God was with you.
People: If God had not been with us surely we would have stumbled all the more.
Leader: Praise be to the Lord who has not let us fall.
People: Our help is in the name of the Lord, Maker of heaven and earth.

*Hymn of Praise Lift Every Voice and Sing UMH #519

Opening Prayer
Saving Creator, your hand covers our lives in many ways. So it is: when we face turmoil you offer us peace. When difficulty overwhelms our judgment you bring discernment. Your grace exceeds our stress, and your mercy teaches us love and justice. For this time of worship help us to allow your presence to overcome whatever burdens, fears, schedules or thoughts we have today so that we are reminded of the joy found in Christ’s name. Amen.

Anthem

*Affirmation of Faith A Modern Affirmation UMH #885

*Gloria Patri UM Hymnal #70
Glory be to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost; as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen. Amen

Old Testament Reading Esther 7:1-6, 9-10; 9:20-22 Pew Bible p.448

Children’s Moments

Offering God of Grace and God of Glory UMH # 577

*Doxology UMH #95
Praise God from whom all blessings flow; praise Him, all creatures here below; praise Him above, ye heavenly host; praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost. Amen.


*Hymn of Preparation Great is thy Faithfulness UMH #140

Epistle Reading James 5:13-20 Pew Bible p.231

Special Music

Sermon

*Hymn of Dedication Forward Through the Ages UMH #555

*Choral Benediction God Be With You(1verse) UMH #672

Passing the Peace They’ll Know We’re Christians UMH #2223

People have often asked me if the stories I use in my sermons are real stories. Yes, they are. Some have wondered how much I embellish the account I tell. Well, that’s between me and my God. No, I’m kidding; the stories I tell best/easiest are the ones that are true to me. If something seems a little memorable---that’s why I’m telling you the story!

Yesterday’s sermon had one such story. I suppose I could see where someone might think the story with Slim Jim and I is a little too after-school-special. But that’s why I remember it; that’s why it has remained a vivid image of the Church for me.

Some would suggest if you’re not uncomfortable preaching you’re not challenging your church. The equivalent statement, I suppose, for those who don’t preach would be if you’re not uncomfortable listening you’re not being challenged. Agree or disagree?

There are times, as a pastor, when you feel it necessary to say what needs to be said. In the Methodist church the Administrative Council is an appropriate place to address issues in the local church. I’ll confess my generalization; it’s based on my experiences. I’ll only speak from my experiences. For example, in my reports to AdBoard I do not restate everything we’ve done as a church. I’ll write it in a report for those who may not have been aware of activities, and for historical purposes. Please read the report. Instead, I would rather use that time to offer my pastoral perspective on what is happening (i.e. how our activities are relating to what our mission is, the involvement of church members and our looking to complete/generate goals for our congregation, etc). Let’s face it; a meeting is a meeting, and it’s full of people waiting to get out, go eat and relax. Wow! That sounds a lot like descriptions I’ve heard of people attending worship services.

Relatively speaking the worship hour(s) is a time when you have the church’s attention. Ministers:

* use your time there wisely,
* make it a sacred time
* be careful to avoid dumping your life, opinions, annoyances and grievances in that time rather than letting the life of Christ revive the church.

I’m sure there have been ministers who have not used that time in that way; and I’m sure you have the stories to tell!

So, back to when you know you’ve got to say something. If you haven’t been there, be ready. Something is going on in the church, or there are issues confronting your congregation you know should be given time for spiritual reflection and discernment for yourself and the church to move forward faithfully. My advice would be to do it! It’s part of our responsibility. Perhaps you won’t get all your usual hi-5s after service, but that’s not what it’s all about, right? What makes that type of sermon difficult is you have to be able/willing to not fall into what you’re addressing. You have to be able/willing to offer your perspective as the spiritual leader in a way that shows you’ve spent time in prayer and reflection in the process.

I had been thinking of my most difficult sermons. So, I compiled a short, unordered list (lest you try to make connections). I did not get the chance in every situation to say what I thought would benefit each church. Also, these titles don’t reflect an entire sermon, but more an issue that was stifling our church; I found (or would have found) ways to use the sermon time to offer the thoughts. Oh, and I’ve added a few more based on what I have heard from other people over the years (lest you try to make connections). Here are the titles (tongue in cheek) of those most difficult sermons; they represent real churches and real people. The names have not been changed because they were not innocent, and there was no need to insert names:

No, of course I would never ask you to be considerate of others.

Where did the church banners go, and who put them there?

Wow, you’re right; I never thought of it that way: your new pastor is not your old pastor.

The 12th commandment: Thou shalt criticize thine church sisters and brothers tremendously.

The advantages of letting your pastor do it all for you.

They’ve left the church; and they’ve stayed away…let’s move on.

Smackdown! The UMC Discipline vs the Bible

It’s only a song.

What has been the most difficult sermon for you to prepare? Or for our readers who are not in the business of sermon writing, what has been the most difficult sermon for you to hear/consider/accept/endure/etc?

Stay blessed…john

Happy Birthday Brittani. I used to be able to hold her in my palm. Today she's 11, and that wouldn't be so easy today. Love 'ya B-girl.

All I have to do is type the title of the article: How will chocolate look in the future

You know you want to check it out. It's an article from The Monitor (McAllen). It reminded me of a fundraiser we had at Edinburg FUMC once, "Chocolate Lovers' Delight." That was a great time!

Stay blessed...john

As promised, here is my first weekly Order of Worship. This order is what our church will use the following Sunday. We follow the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL). Over the last six weeks or so we've had special inclusions in our services (baptism, etc); I've waited until I knew we didn't have anything outside of our usual service elements to post these. However, I can't promise you won't find some of those in the near future. You should be able to make sense of these when you see them. So, away we go:


UMH: United Methodist Hymnal
TFWS: The Faith We Sing


Choral Call to Worship Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus UMH #349

Welcome and Announcements

Prelude Humble Thyself TFWS #2131

Call to Worship (adapted from Psalm 1)
Leader: Many would say, "Sleep in on Sunday morning; this is your day to rest."
People: We do not follow that advice. Our delight is in the law of the Lord; on God’s law we will meditate day and night.
Leader: Following the Christ is not easy; there are no escapes from the pains of this world.
People: We are sure the Lord watches over the way of the righteous.

Hymn of Praise TFWS #

Opening Prayer
We are taught that your love and mercy, O God, is boundless and available to us all. There are times we cling to that promise ever so tightly. Also, we confess, there are times our actions or our inactions, our silence or our soapboxes keep others from knowing and experiencing the same love and mercy you offer to each of us. Forgive us now, we ask, and give us your good life; teach us to make peace, and to know the blessing of following in your ways. In Christ’s strong name we pray, Amen.

Anthem

Affirmation of Faith A Modern Affirmation UMH #885

Epistle Reading James 3:13-4:3

Children’s Moments Which Controller?

Offering Together We Serve TFWS # 2175

Hymn of Preparation Lord, Whose Love Through Humble Service UMH #581

Gospel Reading Mark 9:30-37

Special Music

Sermon

Prayers of the People

Hymn of Dedication I Am Thine UMH #419

Choral Benediction God Be With You(1verse) UMH #672

Passing the Peace Let There Be Peace on Earth UMH #431

Hymn Bio: I Am Thine, O Lord

I’m thinking about changing the name of the blog. Here are some possibilities--in somewhat descending order:

• easy like Sunday morning
• new places again
• john 1:6
• unorganized religion
• here we go again
• another john

I need your help. What would you suggest?

Yesterday our church wrapped up our short, two-week time of testimony (Give God the Praise). In the end only two people shared, me and our Lay Leader. Three others who originally signed up were unable to share. I’m sure, though, we got the point across. We don’t have to be brought from up from the pains of drugs, alcohol or devil worshiping to claim to have a testimony; though those might be worthy of the name. Our “answer” (1Peter 3:15) can be our testimony. Being raised in a faithful home is something to thank God for. We can thank God for not having been addicted to drugs, spent time in prison or…..

So, I’m thankful we had that time and I’ve prayed we’ve learned the importance of living in thanksgiving to God. That was the intent.

The sermon from yesterday is the second testimony. Even if you don’t know the speaker I think you can appreciate the story and words. I included the special music that ended our time. It is “Another Hallelujah” by Lincoln Brewster. Great song. I think you’ll also appreciate listening to that as well. We added a third stanza, written especially for Oak Haven and the Give God the Praise time we had. The lyrics are:

God you’re worthy of our praise;
may your spirit fill this place
as we all are reminded of your love.
United now to boldly go,
assured that we are not alone.
Teach our hearts to know your hallelujah.

See it….praise….this place (our church)…reminded (stories told)….united & boldly (we are a church family prayerfully UNITED by the Holy Spirit, BOLDLY committed to sharing new life in Jesus Christ)…teach…hallelujah.

Also, we thanked God for the much needed rain and had our Back to School Celebration Saturday night. It was a lot of fun and 50+ people (not included church members) came and, I think, had a good time. Of course, all the kids loved the puppet and black light show (Thanks a ton Rudy!). Everyone also received an invitation to our next (4) events coming up (Fall Festival, Ham and Bean Dinner, Christmas Cantata and Christmas Eve Candlelight Service). That should keep us busy for the rest of the year. Not to mention Charge Conference, Bible study, Sunday evenings………..Stay blessed…john

What do you think of this song? Here are the lyrics:

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one’s laughing at God
When they’re starving or freezing or so very poor

No one laughs at God when the doctor calls
After some routine tests
No one’s laughing at God
when it’s gotten real late
And their kid’s not back from that party yet

No one laughs at God when their airplane
Starts to uncontrollably shake
No one’s laughing at God
When they see the one they love hand in hand
with someone else and they hope that they’re mistaken
No one laughs at God when the cops knock on their door
And they say “We’ve got some bad new, sir,”
No one’s laughing at God
When there’s a famine, fire or flood

But God can be funny
At a cocktail party while listening to a good God-themed joke or
When the crazies say he hates us
and they get so red in the head
You think that they’re about to choke
God can be funny
When told he’ll give you money if you just pray the right way
And when presented like a genie
Who does magic like Houdini
Or grants wishes like Jiminy Cricket and Santa Claus

God can be so hilarious
Ha ha, ha ha

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
No one’s laughing at God
when they’ve lost all they got
And they don’t know what for

No one laughs at God on the day they realize
that the last sight they’ll ever see is a pair of hateful eyes
No one’s laughing at God
When they’re saying their goodbyes

But God can be funny
At a cocktail party while listening to a good God-themed joke or
When the crazies say he hates us and they get so red in the head
you think that they’re about to choke
God can be funny
When told he’ll give you money if you just pray the right way
And when presented like a genie
Who does magic like Houdini
Or grants wishes like Jiminy Cricket and Santa Claus
God can be so hilarious

No one laughs at God in a hospital
No one laughs at God in a war
(repeat)
No one’s laughing at God in a hospital
No one’s laughing at God in a war

No one’s laughing at God
When they’re starving or freezing or so very poor

No one’s laughing at God
(repeat)
We’re all “laughing with God”

It is both liberating and difficult to consider how the Bible’s regard for humanity and religion differs from our modern interpretations. In contrast, it is easy, often convenient to forcefully assimilate scripture into our agendas and opinions. Itching ears and eager mouths can cloud God’s promises and prevent us from seeing life and faith how God intended. There is great reward, socially and personally, in attempting to peel back the limitations we place on the message of the Bible.

Prejudice and discrimination have no part in God’s plan for salvation outlined in the Bible. Yet, both have been used, and continue a shared employment, by Christians against other faith traditions and even other Christian understandings. In almost every course I have taken at Perkins the professor has begun the course by reviewing the syllabus, including a statement and discussion affirming the value of varying opinions, but emphasizing the need to respect others’ opinions. Why is that a constant element in a graduate program? Christian ethics people...

webdrivenchurch linked to this picture. funny.

Starting next week I plan to add a new, not novel, element to this blog. Every Wednesday (shall we prayer) I will post a sample order of worship. It will include hymns, call to worship and prayers. I prepare a Worship Plan for our choir members and I to follow and use to prepare for each Sunday service. Of course, textweek offers these already—very good ones, too.

There's probably no chance of me getting so ahead of my work I will be able to prepare these weeks in advance to have by Monday or before their respective week. I hope you will find it helpful or beneficial; if not, that’s okay.

To Wednesday, and beyond! Stay blessed…john

Since I began full time ministry I have made every effort to be completely honest about my faith. So, when I didn’t know, I said, “I don’t know.” When I didn’t have the know-how I stepped aside and watched another take control. If I told you, “I understand your struggle” I meant it. You see this faith stuff can be difficult. Don’t have the impression your minister has all the answers. Every sermon I’ve written was first preached to me. Only when I figured out I haven’t gotten it figured out did I begin to get the most out of church.

Then others in church weren’t just old people, or friends they were God’s people who shared the same life I did. I began to learn from, pray for and imitate many of them—something I still do. Eventually, I became a spiritual leader among them! All the while, and continually so today, I intentionally nurtured my faith in God. I share this as an encouragement for you to do likewise. I might be “preaching to the choir.” That’s okay; the choir needs God, too! Thanks for sharing your faith with me; it has helped me become a better Christian.

As I’m sure is a common tradition for many church preschools, Nathan’s school has chapel time throughout the week. One of the traditions is a birthday blessing. All children who had a birthday during the previous month are asked to come to the altar railing, kneel and receive a birthday blessing. The minister kneels with each child and asks their name and how old they are. She announces the name and age to the entire group and prays for them.

We had already prayed for Nathan and another student in his class. The classmate turned four today (Nathan was five on Saturday). After our newly crowned four-year-old classmate was a young boy who just celebrated his 3rd birthday. So, the leader announces his name, and says, “He is three.” Nathan’s classmate also made an announcement: Hey, I used to be three, too!

It’s the kind of feeling I get when I look back at previous churches, events or other ministry settings. Obviously, well okay hopefully, I am a different person now than what I was then. That is, there are experiences that have shaped me and my understanding, there are new ideas I’ve wrestled with and despite how hard you might try adding years to your life does influence you. Most likely these things lead us into being new creations—all of this seemingly happening in the flash of an eye.

No matter where we find ourselves in our spiritual journey today we must be mindful of where we have been. Think about what God has already shown us, taught us and where we have already been lead to or away from. Part of the joy in that journey is when we find others treading the same paths. That’s where the church has been most influential to me—when its members share their journeys. Now that I find myself having more “I used to be” moments I am careful, I hope, to support and encourage those just turning three. The attitude I hope to have is one that says, “Sure, I can share with you things I’ve learned, but please tell me what you are finding out.”

Pastoral ministry provides many opportunities to see many of God’s people learning and growing in their spirituality. That is the most exciting part of ministry for me. It’s watching God at work; what can be more rewarding?

So, remember where you’ve been and thank God for where you’re going. Stay blessed…john

Here is the 2009 SMU Football Anthem: For My City
the best line..."It ain't easy to get tickets no more!"

The SMU Mustangs have sold out the first game of the season against Stephen F. Austin. Sorry Melanie; I hope we win!
SMU Sells Out 2009 Season Opener

Stay blessed...john

It has been about four weeks I’ve noticed our family has recycled more items than we have thrown away. Irving makes available blue recycling bags for household items; there is a weekly pickup. This has helped us get into the recycling mode. Yes, I’ve even caught myself taking products (paper, can, etc) out of the trash to put into the recycling bag.


Gloria helps and we’ve got the kids thinking along the same lines. She uses the reusable bags for shopping (of course she sports an Oak Haven UMC bag!). It has all helped us in this effort. It was something I wanted to at least give a try. They won’t be making any news reports about us; we’re just not that over the top with it like others. We can say though we’re doing our part.


I also recycle at the office; I did in Bandera and Edinburg, too. Some of you wouldn’t believe all the mail that comes into an office! I fill a box to recycle every two weeks, at least.


Still, like my man Kermit said: It’s Not Easy Being Green.

Stay blessed…john

Here is a short story we used in a recent class. We used it as a discussion starter about how our perspectives influence our use/interpretation of the Bible. I found a link to it here.What do you think?

An English lady, while visiting Switzerland, was looking for a room so she asked the schoolmaster if he could recommend any. He took her to see several rooms and, when everything was settled, the lady returned home to make the final preparations to move. When she arrived home, the thought suddenly occurred to her that she had not seen a W.C. around the place. She immediately wrote a note to the schoolmaster asking him if there was a W.C.

The schoolmaster was a very poor student of English, so he asked the Parish Priest if he could help him in the matter. Together they tried to discover the meaning of W.C. and came to the conclusion that it means Wayside Chapel. The schoolmaster then wrote the following note to the English lady:

Dear Madam,

I take great pleasure in informing you that the W.C. is situated nine miles from the house, in the centre of pine groves, surrounded by lovely trees. It is capable of seating 220 people and is open on Sundays and Thursdays only. As there are a great number of people expected during the summer months, I would suggest that you come early, although there is plenty of standing room. This is an unfortunate situation, particularly if you are in the habit of going regularly.

You will no doubt be glad to hear that a good number bring their lunch and make a day of it, while others who can afford to go by car, arrive just in time. I would recommend your Ladyship to go on Thursdays when there is an organ accompaniment, the acoustics are excellent and even the most delicate sound can be heard everywhere.

It may interest you to know that my daughter was married in the W.C. and it was there that she first met her husband. I can remember the rush for seats, there were ten people to a seat, usually occupied by one. It was wonderful to see the expressions on their faces.

The newest attraction is a bell donated by a resident of this district. It rings each time a person enters. A bazaar is to be held to provide plush seats for all, since the people feel that it is a long- felt need. My wife is rather delicate so she can't attend regularly. It is almost a year since she went last. Naturally, it pains her very much not to be able to go more often.

I shall be delighted to reserve the best seat for you if you wish, where you will be seen by all. For the children, there is a special time and place so that they will not disturb the elders.

I remain,

The Schoolmaster

Stay blessed...john

I’ve learned a lot my first year at Perkins. Mostly, what I have taken away has little to do with factually information and more to do with theological skill. Anybody can pick up a commentary and find out facts—something I’ve done a lot of so far. There’s nothing harmful with that. Little by little I find myself learning more how to think through issues theologically. Yes! That is one of the goals of seminary.

The question I’m wondering about myself after this first year is what has changed in me, my understanding of ministry and/or preaching? I’ve thought for a while and I don’t think I’ve come up with anything extraordinarily different. There are two things that stand out to me, however:
1) With regard to preaching, I am more serious about the text. I don’t think I was negligent, necessarily. I’ve always tried to match the text with the sermon. That is, I want the text to make sense to someone listening. I still do, but more now I am trying to match the sermon to the text. I’d be interested to hear someone’s feedback that has heard both older and more recent sermons of mine.
2) This may not seem like much, but it’s something to me. It is a practice that helps me keep my wonder. Please don’t make it into anything it’s not. I try to refer to God as God instead of my default “Him.” No, I’m not taking away God the Father. It helps me, however, to consider more how God transcends who and what we are by thinking to call God ‘God.’ Let’s face it; there are going to be times when ‘he’ is just the easiest, best thing to say. It may be a practice I won’t pursue at a later time.

If I think of anything else I’ll let you know. A week into my second year, however, means anything new now would have to be credited to that year. Stay blessed…john