Halloween and Jesus

Approved Christian Costume

Halloween is one of those events that generates discord among Christian parents and churches. Some advocate total abstinence from any hint of this celebration, some compromise and attend church "harvest" festivals and dress their kids as cute little puppies and Bible characters, and others dive right in with the rest of the community. 

Before I say another word I will "show my hand" and let you know that I am in the third category. We carve pumpkins that sometimes look ridiculous and that sometimes look scary. Our boys go "trick or treating" and I steal all the Butterfingers and Peanut Butter Cups from their loot. Past costumes include pirates, zombies, The Headless Horsemen, Egyptian gods. cute little puppies, dragons, magicians, and Jedi Knights. In preparation we watch movies like Spiderwick Chronicles, Aliens in the Attic, and of course It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. 

Costume of Crazy Bible Guy

Halloween is one of those activities that most people in America celebrate and I think it would be a shame if every Christian hid inside our doors on this night. It reminds me of the time Jesus took his young disciples to Ceasarea Philippi where it was known that people sacrificed to the god Pan and to Caesar. At this place where true evil was taking place, Jesus told his disciples that "on this Rock I will build my church". Jesus declared that the collective gathering of Christians would grow in the very places where people were desperate for hope and prosperity and where they turned to false gods for comfort. Jesus knew He would triumph over evil so instead of being seclusive, He was present. 

Another great moment in Scripture we see Jesus show up at the Pools of Bethesda. These were medicinal pools outside of Jerusalem. These pools became known as a place where the god of healing, Asclepion, was worshipped. Jesus went to this place where no Rabbi would dare be found and he offered healing to someone who was suffering for many years. If Jesus was afraid of being in a place where false gods were worshipped, this man's suffering would have continued. Instead of being exclusive, Jesus was present. 

Life-size costume of Moses.
The 10 Commandments are included!

I'm not trying to convince you to change your convictions, buy a demon costume, and play with a Ougi Board in the name of Christ. I simply want to remind you that Jesus came into a world full of people who are broken and hurting and He met them where they were. He was accused of being a drunkard and glutton and some attempted to insult him by calling him, "a friend of sinners". 

If your faith causes you to abstain from all things Halloween, by all means follow your convictions. But be okay with those of us who join in with our culture on a pretty fun night. Be happy that there are many of us who love Jesus, love dressing up in ridiculous costumes, and who love hanging out with our neighbors. (Even the neighbors who dress like Satan and try to scare the hell out of little children). Also remember that Jesus will build his church even in the most broken and desperate places on earth... and the gates of hell will not prevail. 

Happy Halloween! 

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I am now posting at a new site here:
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Day Two: The Little Things

Day two. 

In Texas where everything is big, you have to look for the little things to make your day. When you start off in Amarillo and know you and your three boys will drive 520 miles across parts of Texas, Oklahoma, and Missouri you try to savor every positive moment. With this in mind I was delighted to find the complimentary breakfast at our 1 star hotel included a waffle maker that made Texas-shaped waffles (positive moment number one). If that is not a sign of God's favor upon us, I don't know what is. 

With our bellies filled with Texas smothered in syrup we loaded up the RV and were on our way. Today is a travel day so we settled in for the road ahead. 

Another delightful surprise was found in the town of Shamrock, TX. I was attracted by the "Historic Route 66" signs and the shameless "As seen in the movies" signs calling all travelers to drop in. (If you want to properly travel across the country shameless tourists traps should always peak your interest.)

We discovered the one building in Shamrock that was built in 1936 and was used as a model for the movie, "Cars" (positive moment number two). Sadly, nowhere in town sold bumper stickers or magnets of Texas and Route 66 so our time in Texas ended slightly incomplete but luckily, Oklahoma awaited our arrival.

The highlight of Oklahoma was a stop in front of the state sign (positive moment number three). The boys climbed on the sign, the tree beside the sign, and they caught grasshoppers before getting back into the RV. Nothing else happened in the entire state of Oklahoma. Because our goal was to cover ground I will try to not pass judgement on the entire state for the lack of interesting stops along the way. (On a practical note, there are no easy stops for gas or food on Interstate 44 from Tulsa to the Missouri border. Seriously, there are none.) 

We crossed the border into Missouri (and took our photo), then took the first exit and drove a half mile into the state of Kansas so we could say we've been there... because we could (positive moment number four). Back into Missouri and we were in our campsite within thirty minutes. I booked our spot at this RV park a week earlier by sending one email and no deposit and received the response, "Gotcha down" from a guy named Rick.

 We arrived at our site, jumped in the pool, and met Rick (positive moment number five). 

Five solid positive moments on a day that included driving over 500 miles through cowboy country is a great day in my book. I am grateful for my great family and the opportunity to take adventures such as this. 

Day One: The West

The first thirty six hours of road trip fun is all about getting out of the West. In the West the states are wider, the mountains are taller, and the scenery is mostly dry and bare.. That  means driving an RV though the often arid and barren lands takes longer. 

I'm not complaining, I really like driving hundreds of miles through Arizonan and Californian deserts while staring at Yucca plants and rocks but who wouldn't love doing that?

In my travels I have learned it is best to travel through the most barren and ugly pieces of land when the sun is down (sleeping kids make driving through deserts much more enjoyable) therefore Day One of our trip entailed leaving San Diego at 8PM.

The kids did what I hoped and mostly slept through the night (I had to wake up the older boys to get the obligatory photo in front of the Arizona state sign). By the time they woke up and were ready for the day we were in the Petrified Forest and Painted Desert, Arizona. Painted desert is aptly named but the "petrified forest" should perhaps go by, "Sporadically Placed Pieces of Petrified Trees in the Desert National Park". I'm sure the name was considered but signage proved too costly. 

God blessed us with a little rain and no heat so we were able to hike a few miles and actually enjoy the park before any other tourists showed up. The blue, purple, greenish, red, and brown rocks and sand are pretty cool and almost worth the 10 hour drive. The two younger boys completed their Junior Ranger guide and received badges for the park (apparently my oldest is now too old for that). 

We were told not to take anything from the park so when I bumped into a Ranger I tried not to look too awkward while talking and slowly and inconspicuously releasing handfuls of purple sand from my pockets. That distraction proved worthwhile while the boys loaded a 100 pound petrified tree limb into the RV. (It didn't happen quite like that but the youngest did leave with pockets full of rocks. Judging from the view while driving the last 10 hours, the desert will survive with slightly fewer stones.)

The rest of the day entailed driving through New Mexico and served to confirm my two previous experiences in this state; 1. This state contains beautiful scenery and picturesque views and, 2.Albaquerque basically sucks for people under 25 years old.  

By nightfall we checked into a roadside motel in Amarillo and despite providing all pertinent information prior to check in, the young man at reception graciously introduced us to Texan speed and efficiency.

while he took twenty minutes re-entering our information into their system. 

1161 miles and 24 hours into the trip and all is well. We are thankful for good beginnings.... And for getting out of the West. 

Because We Can

"Why would you do that" is the response I get the most often when I say I am driving across the country with my three boys. "How often did you sustain a head injury as a child?" Is the second most common response.

This idea doesn't really sound that bad does it? My boys and I are driving from San Diego to Maine and back in a twenty foot RV and watching Major League Baseball games during the hottest time of year. What could possibly go wrong with that?

The truth is I know this trip might be a little insane and some days will go on forever but some experiences have the potential to be amazing.  That is really the point... The potential to be amazing. Creating memories with my boys (memories that will surely get better as time goes on) is a unique opportunity that only happens when we just go for it.

So for the next three weeks we will enjoy all this country has to offer and try something unique simply because we can. See you on the road.

The Benefit of Pain

Tomorrow I am speaking about the benefits of pain and I remembered this great post from my wife that relates well to my thoughts. One of the main points I will discuss is the fact that pain and trials in life bring things into focus. I think the following reflections from my wife during our last days living in Jerusalem are worth a re-post so here you are:

A Walk To Remember

Today Ryan got home in the late afternoon and did a "boy's night" and let me loose to walk the city of Jerusalem one last time. I grabbed my ipod and my purse (hey you never know) and headed out to retrace a route that has become as familiar to me as well...my hometown would be. I walked out of our apartment, down the steps and onto Gidon. I crossed over the train tracks and turned on Emek Refaim. Emek is a chic shopping street in the high end "German Colony" of Jerusalem. It is fun to people watch here- especially on the eve of Shabbat when everyone is racing to pick up their last minute challah from the bakery, good wine from the wine shop, and fresh bouquets for the table. Tonight the cafes were full of patrons eating kosher salads and drinking cappucinos and turkish coffee. Plenty of window shoppers walked the pavement and at this time, the breeze was still warm. I walked down to where Emek meets Derek Bet Lehem and King David Street and turned up King David. I did a quick detour into the (this is original) King David Hotel just to say that I had been inside the building where most US presidents and many world dignitaries have resided over the years. Then I turned down towards the old city - down a hill, then up again. Through a little concrete valley made up of fountains and steps, which ultimately leads to the base of the Jaffa gate entrance to the Old City.

Because it was "Sara night," instead of going through the gate at my right, I headed left, into the newly constructed, modern (and very Irvine Spectrum, California-like) outdoor mall. I gleefully walked from store to store thrilled to be sans children. As I exited the mall, up a steep staircase, I saw the Jaffa gate ahead of me and made a conscious decision not to head into the city tonight. We had been to the city as a family two days prior to say our goodbyes to the vendors we have befriended, and to say our goodbyes to the sights and smells that we have truly grown to love. I turned to walk away and was a little surprised to feel (gasp!) not a tear, but rather a pang. That little ache in my heart caught me off guard. At this point I also realized a song by David Crowder had come into my ear through my ipod earphones. The words "Take my heart, I lay it down At the feet of You who's crowned" are playing while I start to have a little panic attack. We are actually leaving! I cant go for a run and end up at the rock of Golgotha anymore.... I walk towards a cross walk and the "walking green man" immediately replaces the red one signaling me to walk and I think... but I want to stop! I dont know if I am ready to say goodbye... Meanwhile David is singing "Take my life Letting go I lift it up to You who's throned..."

I walk through my favorite park and at this point the sun is beginning to drop low in the sky. The golden hue of the evening sun is gathering in little pools of light under the olive trees. I start to walk up the stairs again, past the fountain, up towards my "thinking spot" under the bouganvilla, and I turn back to glance again at the old city. There is still so much we haven't done in Israel, I think. Ryan and I never came to this park just the two of us, to watch the sun set over Mt. Zion and the road to the Mt. of Olives. We could still get one more meal of our favorite arab salads and grilled meats. We could still spend more time in the West Bank with the orphans there, or in the refugee camps. I wont be getting good Israeli coffee with my favorite Jewish friend again to discuss theology and matters of the heart.
"Take my fret, take my fear All I have I'm leaving here Be all my hopes, be all my dreams You're my delights Be my everything (I have also during this walk put David Crowder on repeat mode...I figure the song is the perfect way to just swim in my emotional outpouring)."

David faithfully (he cannot say no to the ipod repeat button) croons out to God "And I will worship You, Lord Only You, Lord And I will, I will bow down before You Only You, Lord." And I actually laugh. Not because I think that worship of God is funny, but because I realize that God has done a funny thing in me this year. You see, there is this movie that I love called "A walk to Remember" about a pastors daughter and a "bad boy rebel cool kid." In the movie you figure the two will get together, but you think that eventually the girl will start to at least dress a little cuter or start acting a little "cooler" but she never does. The "cool kid" does fall in love with her and it is because he is changed by her inward qualities and I believe God in her.

Jerusalem has most definitely not changed this year but somehow Ihave. I have genuinely come to love Israel, and not because of its outward appeal. I love Israel because GOD HAS BEEN HERE with us this year...in the same way that He was with us in California, the same way that He will be with us wherever we are. I have cried out to God many times on the streets and alleyways of Jerusalem and He has answered me and embraced me. Despite the constant struggles (which I might add I have not been shy to blog about), God has faithfully, and lovingly kept my head up - even if barely enough...

I walk past the lion fountain and praise God for this year. I genuinely (yes, genuinely!) thank Him for our time here. I am excited because I know that He will be with us even next year as we enter into newer (and I think scarier) ventures in life. I can be moved to tears by the living, pulsing heart of God in Jerusalem. It's okay because it beats in California as well. And all the world! And my heart skips a beat as I walk through a crowd of some out of town, camera toting tourists, elegantly dressed muslim women with their children, a young Jewish couple with heads bent towards one another, and I hear David singing in my ear a love song to God, that I too am singing at this point "And it's just You and me here now -Only You and me here now- You should see the view When it's only You."

Class Reunion Rules

Last weekend I attended my 20 year class reunion (apparently I am older than I thought). Throughout the weekend I wrestled with the decision whether to enter into conversations with long lost, or as was often the case, never found friendships from the teenage years. Each decision was really a judgment of the potential value the small talk will ultimately have in my life.  (There is nothing like a class reunion to illuminate one's latent egocentrism).  

I am certainly not opposed to reigniting old friendships or even in discovering new ones, but in my profession words are important so I am less apt to waste them on equally uninterested ears.

Even with my ongoing internal debate, I was able to observe some unspoken norms for reunion weekends and come up with some official rules to help guide you as you navigate your future celebrations.

#1- Be polite and say, "hello" to everyone but set a time limit on small talk. I was tempted to avoid all conversations with people I never connected with twenty years ago but I am a firm believer in the idea that says, "I have not met all my friends yet" so I was open to finding new connections as if I met each person for the first time.

The key to this is to know when to end the conversation. This is nothing personal but if after thirty seconds you realize you will not speak with this person until the next ten year reunion, you need to begin looking for a way out of the conversation. Try not to say, "Let's be honest, we are wasting each other's time because I really don't want to see a picture of your kids and I'm not even going to pull my phone out to show you pictures of mine so let's just move on". Try something more tactful like, "Excuse me for a minute, I need to check on something... anything".

I can honestly say I was encouraged to re-connect with some lost friendships and even establish some new ones and I only had to enact rule #1 a handful of times.

#2- Don't hold classmates to yearbook promises. As tempting as it might be, don't bring up your bitterness that the popular girl wrote, "Keep in touch" or "We should hang out this summer" but never followed through. People say many things when intoxicated with graduation nostalgia so you have to forgive and forget.

#3- Remember that high school was 20 years ago. At these spectacles it is inevitable that each person will reform the old cliques and even revert to high school behavior. When you are pushing forty years old it is a little more difficult to get wasted, say stupid things, and wake up the next day regret free. For those likely to revert, put $10 cash in your pocket and keep the credit cards at home so you limit your alcohol intake. If eighteen year olds who are wasted looked stupid in high school you should see what it looks like when you are wasted at age thirty eight.

#4- Tell the real story. Let's be honest, most of the people attending reunions feel pretty good about where they are in life but the truth is, twenty years after high school it turns out the popular kids, nerds, athletes, and over-achievers all end up... normal. Most of us have normal lives with spouses, kids, jobs, and bills. Some have traveled more, made more money, or had more spouses but we are mostly on a level playing field. Feel free to say, "my life is pretty normal", "I am pretty happy", or even "I am hoping for some better things ahead". There is no sense in impressing people you haven't seen in ten years and that you will likely not see for ten more.

Most people debate whether to attend reunions at all and with the invention of social media perhaps the need for these gatherings is waning but I say, "Go and have fun". Just as we should have learned in high school be yourself, be open to new friendships, and realize we are all basically in the same place we were twenty years ago when we wondered what the next twenty years will bring.

How to Make a Kid's (or a Father's) Day

Two Major League Baseball players rose high in my personal rankings last week when my son and I attended the Padres vs. Nationals game. Like many times before, we arrived early in hopes of catching a ball during batting practice and possibly even getting an autograph or two.

As the players from both teams headed off the practice field and into their clubhouses to prepare for the game, two Washington National pitchers (Stephen Strasburg and Gio Gonzales) stopped by a young boy who was calling their names and requesting a signature. My 10 year old son quickly joined him and was able to get autographs from these two popular players.

Each time a major league player signs an autograph for a kid he is doing something more than offerring him a valueable collectible. This simple act of taking time to acknowledge that kid and his request is creating an inspired moment for the young fan. It sounds cliche' but one look into my son's eyes after receiving the signature says it all. These players validated my boy's respect for them as people and it gave him a sense of importance to have these "big names" stop and look him in the eyes.

Players who take the time to sign a few autopgraphs and pose for pictures demonstrates their understanding of the responsibility that comes from being a star. These guys play a game for work and in doing so have the eyes of thousands of young people on them everyday. Their job teaches kids about working hard and having fun. It says, "dreams can come true" and, "don't forget to appreciate life as it passes by".

Taking a moment to make a kid's day says, "I remember being young and dreaming of making it big. I remember having heros and how much I looked up to them. I do not take this privilege lightly."

So thank you Strasburg and Gonzales. Your act of kindness last week created a new fan... actually two new fans if you count my son.

Coming Out As a Bigot?

When ESPN analyst and reporter Chris Broussard was asked about his opinion regarding Jason Collins' admission that he is gay and he is a Christian, Broussard came out of his own closet.

He didn't come out as a gay man, he came out as a sports journalist who has developed opinions about the Bible and Christian living. I always knew him as an insightful analyst who often proved too accurate when he predicted the quick demise of the Los Angeles Lakers this play-off season. Most of the sports community also knew him this way... until he ventured into new territory.

When asked about Collins, Broussard said he found it hard to believe a committed Christian could actively engage in living in a way contradictory to the Bible. He did not stop with an active homosexual lifestyle, he went on to say he also did not believe you could be a committed Christian and engage in hetero-sexual sex outside of marriage.

So in one statement he alienated 1 out of 360 active NBA players who claim to be gay and Christian. He also aliented all the other players who claim to be Christian and still actively engage in sexual activity outside of marriage.

After making these comments, Broussard went on to say, "Today on OTL, as part of a larger, wide-ranging discussion on today's news, I offered my personal opinion as it relates to Christianity, a point of view that I have expressed publicly before. I realize that some people disagree with my opinion and I accept and respect that. As has been the case in the past, my beliefs have not and will not impact my ability to report on the NBA. I believe Jason Collins displayed bravery with his announcement today and I have no objection to him or anyone else playing in the NBA."

The response against Chris Broussard was swift and harsh. ESPN apologized for the comments and said they support diversity (presumably as long as the diversity does not include Broussard's opinion). One article said Broussard came out as a bigot and lambasted his stance supporting his view of the Bible. Even one Christian group began a petition to get Broussard suspended for, "gay-bashing".

As is often the case, I am missing something. Chris Broussard believes the Bible teaches homosexuality is a sin so he addressed this issue in the context of his paradigm. He wasn't, "gay-bashing". He was "hypocritical Christian bashing". We all know bashing hypocritical Christians is perfectly acceptable so it is difficult for me to accept Broussard's comments as inappropriate. Never did he say there was something wrong with Collins. He did not say Collins was a coward, sub-human, or unacceptable. He did not call names or promote and call for hatred of Jason or others like him. He stated his opinion that says, "Anyone claiming to be Christian and living in un-repentant sin is not living according to the Bible".

Chris Broussard not only called out Jason Collins, he called me out. He said if I claim to be a Christian, which I do, I must not take my sin lightly and must work to live in a way described in scripture and modeled by Jesus. In the euphoria of public opinion and the understandable support for Collins, Broussard's words went  misunderstood. If what Broussard said was so wrong, then all of us who claim fiath and yet walk in our own sin should join together in our opposition of this newly outed bigot.

Forced Simplification

I have been absent from the writing world for several months now and feel like my readers (or reader... "hi" mom) deserve an explanation.

No profound reasoning or philosophical change occurred in my life except for a case of circumstances spurring some introspection.

In early December the logic board on my laptop died leaving me with only my desktop computer in the office (I know... I am suffering like a hungry child in India). At first I thought this was a simple set back but quickly realized how much I depend on my laptop. The majority of my writing and studying is done on my laptop. Even the majority of my social media is done via my laptop therefore my ability to exaggerate the events in my life in an effort to increase my "likes" on social media has all but disappeared. Even this post is created on my wife's computer.

With this new circumstance I have been forced to simplify. Somehow now I have time for reading, time to commit to to an excersize routine, and even more time to study. My forced simplification is having some nice benefits.
At the same time, we have decided to get rid of cable and our land phone line. Again, this is not the result of a major philosophical or moral decision, but rather simply a financial decision. The beauty is I no longer find myself getting sucked into the latest happenings in the Duck Dynasty as I wander between channels during Sportcenter commercials.

Times like these for me demonstrate just how "wired" and inter-connected our modern lives have become. A little time away from the endless mounds of information forever pervading my eyes and I feel out of touch.... but it is an "out of touch" I am growing to love. Perhaps next my cell phone will break. I can only hope!

It's the End of the World as We Know it.....

Over the next two days we will endure senseless news coverage documenting the eventual end of the world... or at the least, the end of the Mayan calendar.

This is nothing new for a world that now has access to every crazy view or idea (your reading my writings and ideas is case in point). We all remember the imminent end of life as we know it during the Y2K scare. People were certain the economy would collapse and planes would drop from the skies all because our PC's might not be able to make the leap from 1999 to 2000. Last year a radio evangelist, Harold Camping, predicted the world would end by October of 2011. Rulon Jeff, the FLDS leader, told his children to skip college because they would not exist past 1997. All the way back to the 16th century, we have evidence that a mystic named Mother Shipton predicted the world would end in 1991.

The question is, "does anyone really take these predictions seriously or do we simply use them as an excuse for 'end of the world' parties, survival kits, or even weekend hotel packages?" (See Matthew Hall's article here)

I was living in St. Louis in 1990 when scientist, Iben Browning, predicted a major earthquake would occur on December 2nd. We did not believe his prediction but we did use it as an excuse to stay home from school, "just in case". I don't think my parents believed an earthquake would occur but they went along with my ploy to be home for my own safety.

When I worked with high school students I would ask them what they would do if they knew the world would end and those who answered honestly usually had some version of a life of crime and debauchery followed by a last minute of repentance.

Perhaps what this all points to is the human desire for "escape". We have a constant diet of destruction aired from countries in Africa and the Middle East. We have senseless tragedies hitting close to home in our schools. We have a pending dive over the "fiscal cliff" that we cannot control. We even have controversy over yoga in our local Encinitas schools. Are these all signs that the end is near or are they reminders of a world that is imperfect and at times, quite painful? 

In our faith communities we have apocalyptic writings that remind us of the difficulties in life and that point us back to the hope that God is in control and one day will bring peace to our restless world. These writings are less about telling us how and when the world would end and more about reminding us that hope exists and God still fills the world with His love. These writings are about re-ordering our priorities and about keeping us grounded when things seem to be breaking free. 

So whether this Friday "starts with an earthquake" or begins with a typical Friday commute, take a deep breath. Say "I love you" to your loved ones. Recognize the good things that are happening in your life. Re-examine your priorites and the goals for which you live. Trust that God is still in control. 

And unless you see John Cusak driving a limo through the streets while buildings collapse around him, you will likely make it through the day and I am almost certain most of us will wake up Saturday morning (albeit some will wake up with stronger than normal hangovers).

The Art of Comforting

Yesterday our country faced another horrific tragedy when twenty children and six adults were gunned down at an elemnetary school in Conneticut. All of us are affected by this on some level. For parents, we project our lives into the situation and feel the profound pain the families are feeling and selfishly thank God that our kids are ok. Though we hold our own children closer we know life is fragile and there are no guarantees. 

Events like these cause us all to question and search for answers as to why this happens but the truth is no words are sufficient in times like these. I find one of the best models for dealing with grief in the Jewish tradition of "sitting shiva". In short, this is the seven day mourning period where friends and family visit those who are suffering a loss and grieve with them. This is a time to honor the memory of the ones lost and to offer a listening ear and shoulder to cry upon. It is not a time to offer explanations, it is a time to be a tangible comforting presence.

The main idea of shiva is to communicate "we are not alone". According to Jewish scholars this is a fundamental message in Judaism when it comes to death and bereavement.
"Every law and every custom of Jewish mourning and comforting has, at its core, the overwhelming motivation to surround those who are dying and those who will grieve with a supportive community. While some may argue that facing death and coping with grief heighten one's feeling of aloneness, the Jewish approach places loss and grief in the communal context of family and friends."

This communal aspect of mourning reminds us that God also does not leave us alone. The blessing said during mourning is "May God comfort you among the other mourners of Zion and Jerusalem."

In the article How to make a shiva call, "My Jewish Learning" points out the following;
"Ha-Makom is a name of God that literally means "the place," referring to God's omnipresent nature, including at the lifecycles from birth to death. It is only God who can grant the mourner lasting comfort. The comforter comes to remind the mourners that the divine powers of the universe will enable them to heal and go on with a meaningful life. Ultimate consolation comes only from the omnipresent God."

In this season where Christians celebrate the message of Christmas which is " God is with us" , may we find the strength to be present and be compassionate and let others know that they are not alone in their hurt. 

Thank Jesus for Our Q4 Sales

Forgive me for my perennial soapbox session where I attempt to explain that Jesus' birth in Bethlehem might actually not have been God's personal economic stimulus plan but rather something quite the opposite. You have heard me say it before but it bears repeating that we are missing the point of Christmas.

The night the Angels appeared to the unclean and unwanted shepherds to declare, "The Son of God is here" marked the beginning of Jesus' mission to stand against oppressive powers, to bring hope and equality to the poor and marginalized, and to proclaim,  "peacemakers are blessed". The advent of Jesus meant  the ways of the rich and powerful would be challenged by the teachings of the Messiah who was born in the most unlikely of circumstances. This challenge would even  pierce the souls of the religious elite who apparently found company in the leadership styles of their secular counterparts. 

Statistics show that Americans spend somewhere around 450 billion dollars each year during the Holidays. Businesses and even churches count on our cultural celebration of Jesus to help finish the fiscal year with a boom. I think buying presents and enjoying the fun elements of the season is perfectly acceptable and something to look forward to each year but perhaps Christians should lead the way in toning it down a bit.

When our preparations for Christmas are reduced to purchasing "enough" gifts for everyone and making sure our calendars are packed full of Christmas cheer we will likely walk right past the low income family who laid their newborn baby in the feeding trough of a cow. We will forget God's great advertisement for the season was a host of Angels declaring a Messiah has arrived and He will save you from your need to perform and be great in the eyes of God and man. 

Diana Butler Bass said it this way, "Jesus Christ was not born that human beings would spend December shopping or saying, "Merry Christmas." Jesus was born to confront the rulers of this world with the love and justice of the God of Abraham -- that Jesus, the same Jesus who preached  the poor and marginalized were blessed, is the King of kings and Lord of lords. All earthly powers pale before him, the humble born one who will die a political traitor to Rome."

So put that extra tin of flavored popcorn back on the shelf (Aunt Myrtle will be fine without it) , drop an extra dollar in the bucket of your local Salvation Army, and remember this Q4 is not about record profits. It is about God's presence that changed the life of a despised group of shepherds and that can change the life of you and me.  

Holiday Parade Star

Last week my son's class participated in the Encinitas Holiday Parade. I'm pretty sure this parade ranks in the top five best parades in the nation. Its quality falls somewhere between the "Rose Parade" in Pasedena, CA and the "Hey Days Parade" in Tamarack, Minnesota. (This ranking is not official but I'm sure it is accurate). 

Encinitas truly has a "small town" feel so this parade is actually a pretty big deal. Thousands of people line the main street through downtown to watch old cars driven by Santa and the ever-popular "Neuter Scooter" spreading Holiday cheer while promoting safe sex for Encinitas' dogs.

The best part of this parade is that there were literally over 1000 participants. It is a parade consisting of local Boy Scout troops, Indian Princess groups, dance teams, school bands, "Teacher of the Year" classes, city council members, and local businesses willing to pull a trailer filled with people wearing Santa Hats and drinking Egg Nog in reindeer mugs.

All three of my boys were able to walk in the parade carrying a banner for the elementary school so they all felt like the stars of the parade. The truth is that this parade doesn't have any stars and it actually doesn't have anything spectacular. Unlike the Hey Day parade in Tamarack, it didn't even have a local Shriners group driving their purple go-karts like a bunch of junior high kids. (Those of you in the Midwest can appreciate the previous comment). 

The fact that nothing spectacular is on display in this parade is one of the things that makes it great. This event is not about the spectacular, it is about being involved. It is about a community of people coming out to support one another in the normal things in life.

This is the time of the year when many are trying to make everything spectacular. We overdo the decorations on our houses, we overspend trying to give the perfect gift, and we even put pressure on ourselves to host the best parties in the best neighborhoods. Even churches overdo their programming in an attempt to make the season spectacular for all who attend.

The Encinitas Holiday Parade reminds us to be involved and be present with the people in our lives. Rather than going overboard to impress others, go overboard by letting everyone be the star. Give the gift of your presence and your encouragement. Take time to slow down and remember the first Holiday parade of people who went to see the true spectacle of a baby born in humble circumstances so that he could bring peace on earth and goodwill towards mankind.

Matters of Perspective

Perspective is funny thing. One perspective sees two faces looking at each other while another sees a vase. Two different perspectives and the result couldn't be any different. When we take the time to look at any situation a bit longer we are able to see a new perspective and maybe even understand a different viewpoint.

Depending on which side of the separation wall you are standing on, your perspective is the difference between being an aggressor or a defender. Perspective will call one nation "liberators" or an "occupying force". Perspective causes some to label a program "entitlements" while others label it "an obligation" to the poor.

In the past few weeks I have had a reoccurring conversation about the Christian status of the United States. Some argue we may still be labeled a "Christian Nation" while others admit this title no longer applies. The answer is likely different depending on where you live. Perhaps as different as a "blue" state or a "red" state but the point for me is how does this perspective change how I live?

If we are a Christian nation then it seems I have an obligation to fight to keep the nation on that track. If we are not a Christian nation then I must view my life as "salt and light" in a world in need of both flavor and illumination. When Jesus told His followers they were the "salt of the earth" it was in the context of a world that was not yet Christian. He understood that His followers would be different and therefore their stories would unfold under the tapestry of a pluralistic and often adversarial world. The more "Christian" the empire became, the less Jesus' followers had to be "salty".

Most of our communities are far from being well flavored with the hope and peace that comes from God and are once again in need of some "Christian saltiness". I have changed my perspective from existing in a Christian culture to being an alien in a foreign land. Like missionaries, we cannot expect our culture to bend for us, we must learn to add salt and light to the world in which we live. This of course does not mean that we embrace all our culture embraces but it does mean that we approach our culture with a true desire to bring the love of Jesus to the "world" that God so loves.

So how can we be salt and light and be "in the world" but not "of the world"?

1. Don't compromise your own faith. Remaining true to Biblical living applies to you and those who follow Scripture but it does not necessarily mean to fight to have your culture embrace Biblical values. Certainly most people would embrace Biblical values of love, grace, and forgiveness but it is unreasonable to expect our culture to embrace all aspects of Biblical living. Begin with a commitment to personally live the ways of Jesus in a world that does not share that perspective.

2. Build bridges, not barriers. The default for human nature is to fight to have all people embrace our personal perspectives. Though I believe some lifestyles such as following Jesus are beneficial for everyone, I must work to build bridges based on mutual respect and understanding if I ever want my perspective to be heard. When we go through life trying to convince everyone that we are right and others are wrong, we are building barriers that will forever prevent the real message of Jesus from being heard.
One day I came home from work and found my wife having tea with two Mormon missionaries. My wife told them that she was secure in her faith and was not interested in debating theology but she was interested in having tea and company so she welcomed them in. No one converted that day but a bridge was built and a barrier was broken.
I still hold onto a note written to me from a gay friend of mine. In it he says, "Thank you for not judging me or condemning me but rather taking time to get to know me for who I am. You changed my perspective on Jesus and allowed me to open up to the God who loves me." To me, bridges are way more beautiful than barriers.

3. Choose your battles. Which battles are worth fighting as a Christian? There are any number of worthwhile battles and I do not impose my values on anyone else but above all, I urge all followers of Jesus to focus on representing Christ well. The truth is Christians are known for all the things we oppose and less about all the great things we are for. Christians do more in the world for adoption, foster care, feeding the homeless, helping the sick, visiting the imprisoned, and fighting for the oppressed than any other group in the world. Sometimes this message is lost in the noise of the other battles that we fight.

When all is said and done the goal is to represent Jesus in a world in need of the hope and love Jesus brings. If you see your country as a Christian nation or anything but a Christian nation, you have the privilege of helping others see the real Jesus. No matter what perspective you are looking from, Jesus will make the view better.

Look How Normal I Am

Is it me or does Facebook and other social media just perpetuate a spirit of inauthenticity? We post the best photos of ourselves, only tell stories of the fun things we are doing, and we even promote our own writings in hopes of getting hundreds of self-gratifying "likes". (Please "like" if you agree).

A friend of mine called it our "cyber-kingdom". We can project the image of ourselves that we desire everyone to see and we can block or remove any unwanted nusances. If you like us enough you are in our kingdom and if you fall out of favor with us, we remove you and throw you to the cyber dogs.

What we have really done is given the world a false view of reality. I see beautiful wedding pictures of outdoor receptions worthy of a magazine and I question whether my wife and I should have served potato salad in the buffet line at the Officer's Club for our reception. Could our wedding day ever live up to weddings today?

I look at vacation photos of happy families in perfect bliss and I wonder why we can't get our kids to get along in the five minute car ride to Sunday School. Parents tell of their brilliant children receiving presidential awards for their hard work in school and I wonder what is wrong with my parenting because my kid has 20 missing assignments in first period.

Couples post beautiful photos showing them madly in love and for a moment, I'm discouraged because tonight my wife just needs a break from all people so she hides up in her room. No one tells this story on Facebook so it must only happen to me... right?

The truth is life is messy and not always perfect. We wake up each day with "bed head" (if you have enough hair) and bad breath. Marriages like my own are great marriages where we are learning to love each other more every year but where we do not always agree and where sometimes we have headaches at bedtime.

Our kids are amazing and fun and brilliant, but sometimes they drive us crazy and we wonder if we should ever display them in public.

I think I have a fun life with great experiences but many days are mundane. I want to display pictures that make me look like a model but I know these days I can grow more hair on my back than on my head and that bothers me. I am fairly fit but will never melt enough belly fat to display my six pack. I wish I could but I can't.

A Challenge 
What if we not only told the best parts of our lives, but also the not so great parts? Could we actually encourage someone who is not always happy with his looks? Could we help a mother who thinks she is the only one raising alien children? Maybe we could even give hope to a marriage that believes something is wrong because each person is not always 100% satisfied. Life is not perfect but life is wonderful and you should know that it is okay to be "not okay" all the time.

I think today we should all post photos of ourselves and updates that display real life. Post an unflattering photo of yourself or an update that is mundane. Post it with a link to this post so that I can get more "likes" and feel important so that we can let people know that our pictures don't always tell the real story and that you are okay. There is hope in the normalcy of life.

So... seriously. Will you do it?

Why We Can Give Grace When We Disagree

Today I share an excerpt of a post from a pastor that deals with our different opinions over non-essentials for Christian life. He begins by sharing his great health report even though he has a diet that includes bacon most mornings. Faith, like the medical world, may have differences over which practices lead to the desired outcomes. The key is how we treat one another in the midst of our differences. 


*********************

There were two different views of America offered throughout the campaign, and like all the doctors advocating different views of heart health, both sides wanted the same thing – they want an America that’s productive, creative, safe, where people can pursue their dreams.  Both sides believe that their ways will bring about fiscal health.  Both sides believe in their way, because their way worked for them.

And that’s why we need to give each other grace just now… rather than shouting that the end of America has begun and unfriending people who voted differently than us.   We hold our political beliefs because of conviction yes, but can we surely realize that no single party represents the heart of Christ perfectly?  I don’t remember the Prince of Peace advocating for unrestricted access to assault rifles.  Nor would he favor late term abortion, or at the very least, any abortion of convenience.  I don’t know that he’d be cheering unilateral drone strikes by executive order.  Nor would he be too pleased with the notion that the super wealthy get exemption from some laws by virtue of their wealth and power.  So neither party represents Jesus perfectly.  When, then, we say that our vote is theological, while that may be true, it’s theologically selective.

1. If you’re adopted… you might place a huge value on pro-life politics, and vote that way.

2. If you run a small business… you might place a huge value on freedom to structure your business however you like, and pay your employees as much as you like or as little as the market will bear.

3. If you’re an auto worker… you might place a huge value on the government’s intervention to help stave off the loss of your company and your job.  That would seem charitable to you, and you’d vote accordingly.

4. If you love Jesus, and you’re gay, and you’ve prayed, counseled, and sought deliverance, before finally coming to a sense that perhaps this is actually the way you are, you’ll vote for those who view you charitably.

I could go on, but perhaps you get the point? I eat the way I do because it works. You can challenge me, tell me I’m wrong, tell me I’ll die early – even point to studies.  I’ll smile, and, because of the chart above, have another slice of bacon.

I won’t go into the details of every concern I have about Obama or Romney, Gay Marriage or legalized Weed.   If I did, I’d run the risk of helping you miss the point, because the point isn’t what I think.  The point is that in this big complex world, each of us who follow Christ must seek to make God’s good reign visible in lots of ways, including being good citizens and voting.  That one disciple votes one way, and another disciple votes another doesn’t inherently mean the other is deviant, blind, stupid, or hard hearted.  It may simply mean that their faith in Christ has different issues on the front burner than yours, having been shaped by their own collision of faith and life experience.  So I say, with Mitt Romney, let’s pray for our leader, give him grace, and work together to make our nation a place of safety, blessing, and opportunity.

Whether we like bacon or not.

-Richard Dahlstrom

Read the full article here.

This is not controversial

This post is not controversial but these photos are awesome. 

These great photos are courtesy of Seth Casteel.

I Voted

Today is the day when the people of Ohio will finally tell our country who will be the next President. It is also the day when the rest of us get the opportunity to cast votes for other candidates and propositions. This day is one of the things that makes America great and it is also the day that represents division more than unity.

The other day I had a great conversation with Christian friends about politics and I'm pretty sure that some now question my salvation. Somehow I missed the political science class that explained how Republican politics equals Christian values so now my whole life is in question. (I knew I should not have skipped that day).

I believe that some Republican candidates and positions possess some values that are supported in scripture but some Democrat candidates and positions also possess some Biblical values. I have no problem with Christians on both sides of the aisle who vote straight party lines as their own conviction but I don't want them to blame Jesus for this decision.

Let's be honest, we willingly cling to a few select issues in the name of our faith while ignoring the other things a candidate stands for. Most of the time we end up voting for the "lesser of two evils" as if that is the way to vote with conviction.

However you do it, take pride in knowing that you have a vote and if you live in Ohio your vote actually counts. So put on your "I voted" sticker, make sure you leave no "hanging chads", and let the world know what you think.

Hope

My previous post tackled the goal of prompting thought and conversation about the need to be aware of sexual temptations when working in ministry. The aim was to call out anyone walking a dangerous line in potentially inappropriate relationships. Though the tone of the original author was strong, the words were good words with some good suggestions to prevent failure if possible.
The post was intended to be preventative in nature and did not deal with those who have already failed so today I want to address the issue of hope.

Hope for individuals. First, if you have been unfaithful in your marriage know that there is hope. We all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God and we all have our own issues. If you have failed, there is hope for you because Jesus' love reaches to the sexually impure and the self-righteous. God's healing not only extends to your spiritual life, but it also applies to your emotional life. You can be healed. You can be made new and your marriage can be made new and stronger than ever. As with any sin, it will take honesty, hard work, and patience. In moments of brokenness, there is hope.

Hope for relationships. The most obvious consequence of unfaithfulness for some is the end of the marriage. Usually the best option is to allow God to work in your lives to heal and restore your marriage. But if your marriage ended due to unfaithfulness know that the forgiveness and grace of Jesus applies to you as well. There are many issues that may lead to the affair and I don't pretend to understand all of them. Those issues are reasons and not excuses but too often, Christians believe if you did not save your marriage then you are less godly than those who did. That thought is naive and again limits God's ability to make beauty from the ashes. The things in our lives that we mess up or that are messed up for us do not have to define our identity. God is able and willing to redeem and make beauty out of our messes. I have seen many "second" marriages flourish and exist as pictures of healthy relationships. Even in the ashes of life, there is hope.

Hope for friendships. If your unfaithfulness or the unfaithfulness of another has ruined relationships in your life, you have to believe that even here there is hope. Jesus says, "I am making all things new". We are not able to pick and choose what the "all things" Jesus is referring to. He is making ALL THINGS new. The broken relationships and order of things in our world is being repaired and restored by Jesus. There is hope for hurting friendships, family relationships, and relationships between parents and children. Time, patience, understanding, and grace are needed, but don't lose heart because there is hope.

Hope for today. All of us who have struggled with any sin or addiction know that sometimes the idea of living without that thing is more than we can handle. In the previous post one anonymous comment alluded to the difficult nature of changing behaviors. Though we know we should live without it, we cannot simply "turn off" longings for something that has become a part of our lives. When everyone around us wants us to magically heal we either lose heart or become dishonest. My encouragement is to be honest and know that it is okay to be "not okay" but do whatever you can to make progress. Feeling like you can never be restored or healed is a ploy of the enemy. Know that God never gives up on us so even in our darkest moments, there is hope.

Halloween & Jesus

Approved Christian Costume

Halloween is one of those events that generates discord among Christian parents and churches. Some advocate total abstinence from any hint of this celebration, some compromise and attend church "harvest" festivals and dress their kids as cute little puppies and Bible characters, and others dive right in with the rest of the community. 

Before I say another word I will "show my hand" and let you know that I am in the third category. We carve pumpkins that sometimes look ridiculous and that sometimes look scary. Our boys go "trick or treating" and I steal all the Butterfingers and Peanut Butter Cups from their loot. Past costumes include pirates, zombies, The Headless Horsemen, Egyptian gods. cute little puppies, dragons, magicians, and Jedi Knights. In preparation we watch movies like Spiderwick Chronicles, Aliens in the Attic, and of course It's the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown. 

Costume of Crazy Bible Guy

Halloween is one of those activities that most people in America celebrate and I think it would be a shame if every Christian hid inside our doors on this night. It reminds me of the time Jesus took his young disciples to Ceasarea Philippi where it was known that people sacrificed to the god Pan and to Caesar. At this place where true evil was taking place, Jesus told his disciples that "on this Rock I will build my church". Jesus declared that the collective gathering of Christians would grow in the very places where people were desperate for hope and prosperity and where they turned to false gods for comfort. Jesus knew He would triumph over evil so instead of being seclusive, He was present. 

Another great moment in Scripture we see Jesus show up at the Pools of Bethesda. These were medicinal pools outside of Jerusalem. These pools became known as a place where the god of healing, Asclepion, was worshipped. Jesus went to this place where no Rabbi would dare be found and he offered healing to someone who was suffering for many years. If Jesus was afraid of being in a place where false gods were worshipped, this man's suffering would have continued. Instead of being exclusive, Jesus was present. 

Life-size costume of Moses.
The 10 Commandments are included!

I'm not trying to convince you to change your convictions, buy a demon costume, and play with a Ougi Board in the name of Christ. I simply want to remind you that Jesus came into a world full of people who are broken and hurting and He met them where they were. He was accused of being a drunkard and glutton and some attempted to insult him by calling him, "a friend of sinners". 

If your faith causes you to abstain from all things Halloween, by all means follow your convictions. But be okay with those of us who join in with our culture on a pretty fun night. Be happy that there are many of us who love Jesus, love dressing up in ridiculous costumes, and who love hanging out with our neighbors. (Even the neighbors who dress like Satan and try to scare the hell out of little children). Also remember that Jesus will build his church even in the most broken and desperate places on earth... and the gates of hell will not prevail. 

Happy Halloween! 

Yoga and School pt. 2 (For Yoga Supporters)

The old saying goes, "You know you created God in your own image if God hates all the same people that you hate". The principle is the same for the non-religious or the indifferent. It is easy to tolerate people who think like you but when we get angry when others' beliefs oppose our own, we are imposing our world view on another.

The people of Encinitas (and all those outside the city sharing their two cents) need to keep the previous principle in mind when discussing the issue of yoga in the public schools. My previous post gave a challenge to the faith communities that oppose yoga's insertion into the curriculum so out of fairness, the following are some thoughts for those who support yoga in the schools. 

1) Be understanding. Thirty years ago my wife's first grade class had a Christmas party (please don't do the math to determine her age). She still remembers two classmates who waited in the office during the party because they didn't celebrate Christmas. She remembers how all the students were aware of this and wonders how this must have felt for those two children who did not participate.

Times have changed and we now have "winter parties", but the same principle applies and we need to be sensitive of those faiths who are uncomfortable with yoga. Do we really want children sitting alone and missing out on Physical Education because their family does not want interaction with practices that are associated with Hinduism? No alternative to yoga currently exists for these children so they are asked to sit alone during the yoga class thus putting children in awkward situations.

2) Be tolerant. A logical fallacy is inherent in the statement, "You are being intolerant" so let's think this one through. It is usually only Christians who get the privilege of being labeled intolerant but this time we need to turn this around. Understand that faith is the most important thing in many people's lives. Please respect religious convictions that say things like, "we will not eat meat and dairy together" or, "we will fast from sun up until sundown during holy days", or "we will not practice exercises associated with spiritual expressions of another religion". There are plenty of religious convictions in the world that I do not share but as long as those convictions do not bring harm on other people I can respect them.

For many of us with Christian or Jewish faith, we believe that the earthly and spiritual worlds are interwoven. We believe that there is a spiritual side of life and our Scriptures prohibit us from opening up to "other gods". EUSD does not want meditation in the classroom to become spiritual but for some faiths, all meditation has a spiritual element and those who do not share this conviction should respect that some do. By labeling Christians, Jews, Jehovah's Witnesses, and whoever else protests, "intolerant",  you are guilty of your own intolerant preferences.

3) Don't let this ruin friendships. I have lived in a country where my faith was not accepted and where my children were isolated for their beliefs. If you haven't experienced it, you can't imagine the pain a parent feels to see their kids suffer from bigotry. I watched my children jump on the same merry-go-round as children of a different faith only to see the parents rush over and take their kids away from mine. My heart broke one day when my son asked to dress like kids from a different faith so that he "would be allowed to have friends at the playground".

Please do not let this issue become a point of division among free Americans. When you gossip about parents who oppose yoga and belittle people who have convictions that compel them to obstain from the program, you are contributing to the larger problem of hatred, bullying, and bigotry (yes, this point applies to both sides). Agree to disagree but don't let that affect your play dates and your involvement with every other aspect of education.

4) Find the common ground. We all want the same thing so you should want the non-yoga kids to be just as healthy as the yoga kids. Be an advocate for options. We don't have to kill the wellness program and all the other benefits such as the garden and healthy food programs. We don't even have to kill the yoga portion, simply provide options that don't force discrimination. Signing petitions to remove or keep the program, or calling for suits and counter-suits is taking away from all the great things our schools do for our children and from all the energy that we should be investing on campuses.

5) Be intelligent. I know that religious people historically like to argue from passion and not logic, but it goes both ways. One comment on the blogosphere (I know... not always the greatest source for intelligence) said, "How can a parent oppose yoga at the same school that has a 'good news club'?"

That comment is a bit like criticizing someone who cheers for the Chargers but who doesn't like Hockey. The "Good News Club" is an after school optional club that is constitutionally supported and therefore is not related to someone's opposition to core curriculum in the school.

Other comments criticizing parents who object to yoga are, "Next you will pull your kids out of Karate", or "Next you will say serving Salisbury Steak... is promoting Germanic values" (Salisbury Steak is an American invention named after James Salisbury but that is not the point- editor's note) Other comments include, "I suppose now they will oppose teaching Spanish" and finally, "We should get rid of Christmas vacation because it promotes Christianity" (again I must pitch in... we no longer have Christmas break, it is "winter break" and kids are forbidden to give Chanukah or Christmas cards to one another. And what child or parent wants to get rid of winter break?). 

The point is, don't argue your case un-intelligently or people like me will side against you on principle alone. Compare "apples to apples" and try to attack arguments, not people or religious beliefs.

My final word for everyone. 
Focus on the 98% of the school week where EUSD is as good as any other district in the nation. Be proud of what we have and work together to put our efforts into future generations.