Prepared Hearts for December 22nd

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

For this third week of Advent our texts include: Isaiah 7:10-16, Psalm 80:1-7, 17-19, Romans 1:1-7, and Matthew 1:18-25. I’ll be preaching from Matthew. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts.

Matthew 1:18-25

18 Now the birth of Jesus the Messiah took place in this way. When his mother Mary had been engaged to Joseph, but before they lived together, she was found to be with child from the Holy Spirit. 19 Her husband Joseph, being a righteous man and unwilling to expose her to public disgrace, planned to dismiss her quietly. 20 But just when he had resolved to do this, an angel of the Lord appeared to him in a dream and said, ‘Joseph, son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary as your wife, for the child conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. 21 She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’

22 All this took place to fulfil what had been spoken by the Lord through the prophet: 23 ‘Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and they shall name him Emmanuel’, which means, ‘God is with us.’ 24 When Joseph awoke from sleep, he did as the angel of the Lord commanded him; he took her as his wife, 25 but had no marital relations with her until she had borne a son; and he named him Jesus.

STARTER THOUGHTS

This week’s text invites us to a walk a mile in Joseph’s shoes. Imagine good ol’ law-abiding Joseph trapped between a rock and a hard place. His betrothed is pregnant, which is grounds not only for him to break off the engagement but for Mary to be stoned to death. Although he must have felt humiliated and disgraced himself, he refused to put Mary to shame and planned to “dismiss her quietly,” although it’s unclear how he’d be able to pull that one off. Marriage wasn’t an arrangement based on affection, but a legal agreement that had been worked out between their families. Nevertheless, he is resolved to do the kind thing, and then God comes and asks him to do the unthinkable thing: marry Mary anyway! What do you imagine was Joseph’s greatest challenge during this period of time? How do you think he managed to go through with what the Lord commanded of him?  

God sent an angel to Joseph in a dream, and the angel gave him very clear instructions. Unfortunately, not all of us experience such direct guidance when faced with life’s challenges. How does God communicate to you in times of crisis? When and where have you heard God’s voice, and how have you responded? If an angel of the Lord appeared to you in a dream, would you listen to the message or wonder what you ate the night before and dismiss it?

The Gospel of Matthew puts a great deal of emphasis upon how the birth of Jesus fulfills the prophecies of ancient Israel. Why do you think that this was so critical in the early stages of Christianity?  Is it still as critical today? Why or why not?

The Bible gives us very little detail about the man God chose to be Jesus’ earthly father. Yet, this short story reveals a lot about Joseph’s character. What traits does he exhibit that indicate he’s up to the challenge of raising God’s son? What impact do you think these traits had upon Jesus as he was being raised in Joseph and Mary’s home?

As always, I look forward to your thoughts and reflections. Feel free to email me directly or post a comment here. 

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for December 15th

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church. I apologize for the delay! 

For this third week of Advent our texts include: Isaiah 35:1-10, Luke 1:47-55, James 5:7-10, and Matthew 11:2-11.  This week our Call to Worship will be from Luke, and I’ll be preaching from the Gospel of Matthew. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

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

As they went away, Jesus began to speak to the crowds about John: ‘What did you go out into the wilderness to look at? A reed shaken by the wind? What then did you go out to see? Someone dressed in soft robes? Look, those who wear soft robes are in royal palaces. What then did you go out to see? A prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom it is written, “See, I am sending my messenger ahead of you, who will prepare your way before you.” 

Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.

STARTER THOUGHTS

This week’s scripture lessons contain a variety of emotions. The passage from Luke, known as the Song of Mary or Magnificat, is one of the most joyful songs in scripture. On the other hand, the text from Matthew reflects the sadness and doubt John was experiencing. I imagine John in prison, doubting the identity of Jesus and wondering if his life’s work had been in vain. The juxtaposition of these texts reflects the hills and valleys of our Christian journey. There are times when our spirits rejoice and other times when we find ourselves asking, “Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?” How do you experience the “ups” and “downs” on your journey? What pulls you through the valley? What brings you to the mountaintop?

In response to John’s question, Jesus didn’t flat out say, “I’m the Messiah.” He answered by telling them to report the work he was doing. Why do you think Jesus did that? 

The sharing of firsthand accounts of the healing of Jesus Christ (often referred to as “witnessing”) is something that has been a tradition of our faith from its very beginning. At the same time, folks can (and do) find it difficult to give voice to and/or share their faith story or stories. What is it about sharing firsthand accounts that is so powerful? What do you think keeps folks from sharing more frequently their own encounters with Christ? 

I think it’s interesting that Jesus moves directly from hearing about John’s doubts to describing him as the greatest prophet ever born. John’s insecurity about Jesus doesn’t cause Jesus a moment’s uncertainty about John’s own identity. What can we take from this about how Jesus encounters our doubts? What role has questioning played in the development of your faith? Do you think we (the church) allow enough space for folks to express questions and doubts? 

I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reflections! Email me or post a comment here. 

Peace,
Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for December 8th

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

For this second week of Advent our texts include: Isaiah 11:1-10, Psalm 72:1-7, 18-19, Romans 15:4-13 and Matthew 3:1-12.  I’ll be preaching from the Gospel of Matthew this week. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

In those days John the Baptist appeared in the wilderness of Judea, proclaiming, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”  This is the one of whom the prophet Isaiah spoke when he said, “The voice of one crying out in the wilderness: ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.’” Now John wore clothing of camel’s hair with a leather belt around his waist, and his food was locusts and wild honey.  Then the people of Jerusalem and all Judea were going out to him, and all the region along the Jordan, and they were baptized by him in the river Jordan, confessing their sins.

But when he saw many Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bear fruit worthy of repentance. Do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our ancestor’; for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children to Abraham. Even now the ax is lying at the root of the trees; every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. “I baptize you with water for repentance, but one who is more powerful than I is coming after me; I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fork is in his hand, and he will clear his threshing floor and will gather his wheat into the granary; but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

STARTER THOUGHTS

A lot of the scripture we read this time of year finds its way onto Christmas cards. I think it’s safe to say that John’s comments here won’t make that cut. Ouch! John is brutal in his understanding of the coming Messiah with his winnowing fork and fire. How does John’s idea of Jesus compare with the Jesus who actually comes among the people?

As John the Baptist prepares the way for the coming Messiah, his cry to the people is for repentance. What does “repentance” mean to? What real-life application does it have? And what relationship do you see between repentance and making the way for Christ?

Even with his bizarre wardrobe and unusual diet, John was highly popular prophet during his time. What do you think John’s appeal was? He shared such a sharp message. Why do you think so many people were drawn to him?

There’s an economic component to this scripture that can’t be overlooked. John the Baptist lived by the absolute simplest means possible. Locusts were (and still are in some parts of the world) what the poorest individuals survived on. He lived and preached repentance, service and simplicity. Of course, the Christmas season that emerges all around us has very little to do with these things. Our culture’s version of Christmas is all about indulgence and extravagance. How do we keep to the basics of John’s message of making a way for Christ?

I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reflections! Email me or post a comment here. 

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for December 1st, 2013

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

For this first week of Advent our texts include: Isaiah 2:1-5, Psalm 122, Romans 13:11-14, Matthew 24:36-44.  I’ll be preaching from the Gospel of Matthew this week. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

Matthew 24:36-44

 ‘But about that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. For as the days of Noah were, so will be the coming of the Son of Man. For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered the ark, and they knew nothing until the flood came and swept them all away, so too will be the coming of the Son of Man. Then two will be in the field; one will be taken and one will be left. Two women will be grinding meal together; one will be taken and one will be left. Keep awake therefore, for you do not know on what day your Lord is coming. But understand this: if the owner of the house had known in what part of the night the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and would not have let his house be broken into. Therefore you also must be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour.

STARTER THOUGHTS

This week’s text is what is referred to as apocalyptic literature (also known as the parts of the Bible that give a lot of folks the creeps). Let’s put it this way: it’s not often chosen for bedtime reading! In the late Nineteenth and early Twentieth Centuries a lot of emphasis was placed upon the “Rapture” or Second Coming of Christ. Most of it focused on how God was going to save some and burn others. When I read this stuff, it seems (at least to me) like the church was trying to terrify folks into believing in Jesus. As Christians, we do believe that our God is the ultimate and just judge. However, I have a problem with using fear to coerce people (especially young people) into the faith. What do you think? Have there been times you’ve experienced preaching and teaching that cast God in a terrifying light? What do you think of fear as a motivator? Does the church still use it to convert folks into believers?

This passage in Matthew is ultimately about the coming of God’s Kingdom in its fullness and the return of Jesus as Lord. This brings me to a critical note on Advent, something that escaped me until I went to seminary. In all my time growing up in the church, I thought Advent was about awaiting the birth of baby Jesus. Turns out, it’s not. It’s about awaiting the final coming of Jesus and God’s complete reign on earth. Now this is something that many of you astute theologians may have picked up on years ago…but it was news to me! We aren’t waiting on a baby. God’s been there and done that. We are waiting on the completion of God’s Kingdom: that it would be on earth as it is in heaven. What do you make of this? How have you understood the season of Advent?

The text is pretty clear about the unknown timing of the parousia (Coming of the Son of Man): the Son of Man is coming at an unexpected hour. Yet throughout church history, there have been groups who have pored over the books of Daniel and Revelation and sifted through every piece of apocalyptic literature, attempting to nail down the exact date of Christ’ return. What do you think that’s about? Is the unknown too much for us?

The theme for the first Sunday of Advent is always hope. Does this reading give you hope? Do the other lectionary texts? Why or why not?

I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reflections! Email me or post a comment here. 

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for November 24th

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

The lectionary texts for this week are as follows:  Jeremiah 23:1-6, Luke 1:68-79, Colossians 1:11-20, and Luke 23:33-43. I will be preaching from Luke 23.

The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

Luke 23:33-43

When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified Jesus there with the criminals, one on his right and one on his left. Then Jesus said, ‘Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.’ And they cast lots to divide his clothing. And the people stood by, watching; but the leaders scoffed at him, saying, ‘He saved others; let him save himself if he is the Messiah of God, his chosen one!’ The soldiers also mocked him, coming up and offering him sour wine, and saying, ‘If you are the King of the Jews, save yourself!’ There was also an inscription over him, ‘This is the King of the Jews.’

 One of the criminals who were hanged there kept deriding him and saying, ‘Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us!’ But the other rebuked him, saying, ‘Do you not fear God, since you are under the same sentence of condemnation? And we indeed have been condemned justly, for we are getting what we deserve for our deeds, but this man has done nothing wrong.’ Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom.’ He replied, ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Paradise.’

STARTER THOUGHTS

This coming Sunday, we’ve got a lot going on. We’ll be celebrating the Hanging of the Greens, as well as Christ the King Sunday, which is the last Sunday before Advent. Christ the King Sunday has also been referred to as “Reign of Christ” Sunday, and all of the scriptural passages have to do with Christ’ authority in heaven and earth. This is a good week to check out all of the lectionary texts because the common theme is evident (which is frankly not always the case). In fact, Luke 23 seems to be the odd text out. The rest proclaim Christ’s dominion and authority, but Luke 23 describes how Jesus was mocked during his crucifixion. Why do you think this section of Luke 23 was selected as a reading for Christ the King Sunday?

The description of the other two criminals crucified with Jesus and Jesus’ prayer for those who were tormenting him are unique to Luke. The Lord’s prayer, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing,” has always touched me very deeply. As he hung upon the cross, painfully and slowly dying, Jesus prayed for those who were killing him and had a conversation with one of the criminals hanging beside him. How does this image compare with other images of kings?

Clearly, Jesus came to usher in a Kingdom that is like no other. Wherever Jesus encountered customs set up to separate and rank individuals, he was found breaking those customs and proclaiming that the meek would inherit the earth. What does it mean to today to declare Christ as King? What are the marks of his Kingdom in our world today?

As the last Sunday before Advent, Christ the King Sunday always feels like a springboard into Advent. Nearly every year, as Advent approaches, I begin to hear (as I’m sure you do) complaints about how Christmas comes earlier every year…about the commercialization of Christmas…how we’ve lost the Christ in Christmas. It’s a time of year when we (as followers of Jesus) can cave to the temptation of self-righteousness…judging others for not understanding the “true meaning” of Christmas. Personally, I’ve found that my faith in Jesus Christ doesn’t automatically make me immune from the commercialization, the shopping frenzy, and the overall stress of the season. Christ the King Sunday is the perfect time to decide what you can commit to during Advent. What prayer or meditation time do you plan to take for you and God? What devotional will you and your family use together as you light your home Advent wreath? During these dark days, how can you make room for God to shine some extra light into your life?

As always, I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reflections. Feel free to email me or post a comment here. 

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for November 10th, 2013

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

The lectionary texts for this week are as follows:  Haggai 1:15b-2:9,  Psalm 145:1-5, 17-21, 2 Thessalonians 2:1-5:13-17, and Luke 20:27-38. I will be preaching from Luke.

The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

Luke 20:27-38

27 Some Sadducees, those who say there is no resurrection, came to him 28 and asked him a question, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us that if a man’s brother dies, leaving a wife but no children, the man shall marry the widow and raise up children for his brother. 29 Now there were seven brothers; the first married, and died childless; 30 then the second 31 and the third married her, and so in the same way all seven died childless. 32 Finally the woman also died. 33 In the resurrection, therefore, whose wife will the woman be? For the seven had married her.” 34 Jesus said to them, “Those who belong to this age marry and are given in marriage; 35 but those who are considered worthy of a place in that age and in the resurrection from the dead neither marry nor are given in marriage. 36 Indeed they cannot die anymore, because they are like angels and are children of God, being children of the resurrection. 37 And the fact that the dead are raised Moses himself showed, in the story about the bush, where he speaks of the Lord as the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. 38 Now he is God not of the dead, but of the living; for to him all of them are alive.”

STARTER THOUGHTS

This is the kind of scripture lesson that probably fascinates some and bores others. I’ll be honest, I have enough to worry about in this life that I don’t give a lot of thought to my afterlife. I trust that God is going to take care of me, that it is going to be peaceful and beautiful, and beyond that, I don’t give it a lot of thought. I’ve known others, however, who are very interested in this topic. They search the scriptures for every indication of what life after death will be like. What about you? Is the afterlife something that you spend a lot of time considering? What are you most curious about? Do you find the mystery of it unsettling? Or is it an exciting topic for you?

 The Sadducees are an interesting group in the Bible. Although we don’t know a great deal about them, we know that they, unlike the Pharisees, rejected the oral tradition, and so they didn’t believe in resurrection or angels. The Sadducees intentionally took the topic of resurrection to an absurd level when they asked this question of Jesus. In answering their question, Jesus used the Sadducees’ own source of authority, the Law of Moses, to defend his response. If God is the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob, the three must still be alive to God, right? The Sadducees were satisfied with Jesus’ answer…but are you? What do you think of Jesus’ response? What about couples who have spent a lifetime in a loving marriage together…is Jesus really saying that they won’t be together in the afterlife? What do you think about that?

It’s important to put the concept of marriage in its historical context when we look at this text. It was, after all, not an institution based on love and affection at that time. It was a business arrangement which ensured procreation and community stability. Men were guaranteed wives (who were considered property) and in turn, women were protected by the law (if not for a brother to take her in, a widow would have been in sore shape). Does this fact change how you read this text? Is Jesus saying something more about the bonds and structures that shape our communities on this side of death versus the afterlife?

My favorite verse in this passage is 36: Indeed they cannot die anymore, because they are like angels and are children of God, being children of the resurrection. I love the concept of being “children of the resurrection.” What does this make you think of? What is your vision of the afterlife? Is it based on particular scriptures or upon the oral traditions that you have received?   

I look forward to hearing your thoughts and comments. Feel free to email me or post a comment to our blog.

Peace,

Amee

Prepared Hearts for Nov 3rd, All Saints

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

The lectionary texts for this week are as follows:  Daniel 7:1-3, 15-18, Psalm 149, Ephesians 1:11-23, and Luke 6:20-31. I’ll be preaching from Ephesians.

The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

Ephesians 1:11-23

In Christ we have also obtained an inheritance, having been destined according to the purpose of him who accomplishes all things according to his counsel and will, so that we, who were the first to set our hope on Christ, might live for the praise of his glory. In him you also, when you had heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and had believed in him, were marked with the seal of the promised Holy Spirit; this is the pledge of our inheritance toward redemption as God’s own people, to the praise of his glory.

I have heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love toward all the saints, and for this reason I do not cease to give thanks for you as I remember you in my prayers. I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him, so that, with the eyes of your heart enlightened, you may know what is the hope to which he has called you, what are the riches of his glorious inheritance among the saints, and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power for us who believe, according to the working of his great power. God put this power to work in Christ when he raised him from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly places, far above all rule and authority and power and dominion, and above every name that is named, not only in this age but also in the age to come. And he has put all things under his feet and has made him the head over all things for the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all.

STARTER THOUGHTS

This week we will be celebrating the Feast of All Saints, which traditionally is the time of year that the church celebrates the followers of Christ who have gone before us who have shaped our faith, individually and collectively. Congregations do this in a number of ways. They may read the names aloud of those who have passed in the last year, light candles, toll a bell, etc. A colleague of mine shared with me that her church used butterflies to symbolize saints and filled trees placed up by the altar with paper butterflies in remembrance of their loved ones. Who are some of the saints who have had an impact on your faith journey? In what ways did they shape your walk? What are some of the rituals you have developed for remembering them and their importance in your life?

Of course, the term “saints” doesn’t refer simply to those who have died in Christ, it is a term that describes anyone who proclaims Jesus as Lord. Do you think of yourself as a “saint?” Why or why not? Are there saints in your life today who inspire and support you? How have they helped you grow in your understanding of discipleship? Do you think they would consider themselves “saints?”

The writer of Ephesians declares that believers have an inheritance which is part of God’s greater cosmic plan. What does this mean to you? Do you find it difficult to connect your daily life to this grand plan? Why or why not?

Being the recipient of an inheritance or inherited traits is something that most of us can relate to. What things have you inherited in life (physical traits, skills, gifts, etc.)? Are there parts of your inheritances that you’d rather give back?

As members of the church, we’ve inherited a great deal from those who have gone before us, some of it good and some of it not so great. For example, we have the blessing of Scripture, but we’ve also inherited a church that is fractured into countless denominations and sects. What are the good and bad things you’ve inherited in the faith? What are some of the things you wat the next generation of Christians to inherit? What sort of things do you hope they don’t have to inherit?

I’ve been wrestling with this text all week, so I really look forward to your thoughts and reflections. Feel free to email me or post here. 

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for October 27th

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

This week’s lectionary texts include: Joel 2:23-32; Psalm 65; 2 Timothy 4:6-8, 16-18; Luke 18:9-14. I’ll be preaching from the Gospel of Luke this week. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

Luke 18:9-14

He also told this parable to some who trusted in themselves that they were righteous and regarded others with contempt: ‘Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax-collector. The Pharisee, standing by himself, was praying thus, “God, I thank you that I am not like other people: thieves, rogues, adulterers, or even like this tax-collector. I fast twice a week; I give a tenth of all my income.” But the tax-collector, standing far off, would not even look up to heaven, but was beating his breast and saying, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” I tell you, this man went down to his home justified rather than the other; for all who exalt themselves will be humbled, but all who humble themselves will be exalted.’

STARTER THOUGHTS

I have a friend who meditates daily, using the mantra: “Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner.” When he first shared this with me, I thought: how depressing! I’ve used a variety of Christian phrases and prayers for daily meditation, but this one (which is actually an ancient Christian practice) just seemed like a total bummer! Who wants to recount, over and over again, one’s status as a sinner?

And yet…the older I get and the deeper my faith becomes, I’ve got to admit that I now appreciate (yes, even like) this phrase. It no longer holds the negative and judgmental meaning for me that it once did. It frees me to accept God’s mercy and (with God’s help) show that mercy to others.

What does the tax collector’s prayer, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner!” mean to you? How does it feel to be identified as “a sinner?” Does the idea of that feel condemnatory and critical? Or does it center you in reliance on God? Or is your response nothing like either of these? Spend a few moments with this prayer, “God, be merciful to me, a sinner,” and notice your reaction to it.

I think most of us can relate to the Pharisee in this story. I’ve found myself (on plenty of occasions) wrapping myself up tightly in a big blanket of self-righteousness. Part of this stems from pride, and part of it comes from insecurity. The Pharisee is careful to recount to God all that he is doing to try to earn salvation. As Christians, we know that Christ’ grace is sufficient for us, and yet, don’t we often get caught up doing good works to impress others or be noticed by God? What do you think is going on with this Pharisee? Is he presumptuous? Prideful? Insecure? Clueless? All of the above? When do you feel yourself most drawn into places of self-righteousness? How do you respond?

I will admit that virtually every time I’ve said of others, “Thank God I’m not like that person!” God has somehow managed to put me in that person’s situation! I’ve learned to never utter the words, “Well, I would never…” because as sure as the sun rises, I will end up doing the very thing I condemned someone else for! Have you had similar experiences? How has the Spirit curbed your pride or helped you to recognize when you are getting caught up in your own virtue?

The reader of this text discovers the true character of the tax collector and the Pharisee through the prayers they offer to God. What do your prayers say about your faith?

Finally, how does the church do, as a whole, in facing sin? When it comes to corporate acts, like global warming, poverty, and lack of affordable housing, what is the church’s responsibility to cry out, “God, be merciful to us, sinners!” Do we dwell on these sins or do something about them?

I look forward to hearing your thoughts and reflections! Email me or post a comment here.

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for October 13th

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church.

The lectionary texts for this week are as follows:  Jeremiah 29:1, 4-7, Psalm 66:1-12, 2 Timothy 2:8-15, and Luke 17:11-19. I’ll be preaching from Luke.

The text is below, followed by starter thoughts:

Luke 17:11-19

On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten lepers approached him. Keeping their distance, they called out, saying, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!’ When he saw them, he said to them, ‘Go and show yourselves to the priests.’ And as they went, they were made clean. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. He prostrated himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus asked, ‘Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?’ Then he said to him, ‘Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.’

STARTER THOUGHTS

One of the first statements in this passage reinforces what we discussed last Sunday, the “outcast” status of persons with leprosy in ancient Israel. You’ll note that the men “kept their distance” when calling out to Jesus. To approach him or anyone else who was not “unclean” was forbidden. These men displayed extraordinary courage in calling out to Christ for mercy. They even refer to Jesus as “Master” (something only the disciples had done throughout the book of Luke).  What do their actions say about their desperation and/or their understanding of Jesus? Have there been times in your life when you’ve felt the desperate need for healing (spiritual, physical, mental, or emotional)?  What was your response to this need?

The men with leprosy weren’t healed immediately. Jesus simply tells them to head off to the priests. On their way, they are made clean. They step out in faith and begin to journey, not knowing that they will be healed along the way. The trust they show in Jesus and his instruction is really extraordinary. Are there moments when you have struggled to follow God’s instructions, unsure of where they will lead? Do you think that we (the church) show the faith of the lepers? Do we take off on our voyage and trust that God will do the miraculous as we journey along?

One of the most common questions asked about this passage is: why does the Samaritan turn back while the others do not? One of the things to keep in mind is that the Samaritan was in essence doubly cursed. He had leprosy (which made him unclean), and he was a Samaritan (which made him despised). In reality, the priests had nothing to offer him. The other nine would have been declared clean by the priests and restored to community. This wouldn’t have been the case for the Samaritan. How do you think the Samaritan’s unique “doubly cursed” position may have affected his understanding of what Jesus had done for him?

The heart of this story isn’t so much the healing as it is the response the healing invokes (or doesn’t invoke) by those healed. A lot of sermons I’ve heard on this text basically admonish Christians not to be like the 9 lepers and to show gratitude toward God. However, the Samaritan does more than thank Jesus. He praises God and falls at Jesus’ feet. His actions are those of one who acknowledges the authority of Jesus as Lord. The Samaritan’s actions are as much an expression of faith as they are an act of gratitude. This is reinforced by Jesus’ comment, “Your faith has made you well.” What is your understanding of the relationship between faith and gratitude? Can one exist without the other?

Of course none of Jesus’ healing would have taken place if he hadn’t seen those who called out to him. His acknowledgment of those with leprosy and their cry for mercy is the beginning of their healing journey.  This begs the question: who do we see or fail to see? Are there folks in need of healing who don’t catch our attention? What cries for mercy does the church turn from or pretend not to hear?  

As always I look forward to your thoughts and reflections. Feel free to email me or post a comment here.

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for October 6th, 2013

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church. I apologize for the delay in this week’s email!

This Sunday is World Communion Sunday and I will be using two texts, one from the lectionary (2 Timothy 1:1-14) and one random scripture that I picked out of a hat. Just kidding! This passage from Mark may seem like an unlikely choice, but trust the Spirit, I think the combo of these passages is very powerful.

The texts are below, followed by starter thoughts:

2 Timothy 1:1-14

1 Paul, an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, for the sake of the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus, 2 To Timothy, my beloved child: Grace, mercy, and peace from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord.

I am grateful to God—whom I worship with a clear conscience, as my ancestors did—when I remember you constantly in my prayers night and day. 4 Recalling your tears, I long to see you so that I may be filled with joy. 5 I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that lived first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, lives in you. 6 For this reason I remind you to rekindle the gift of God that is within you through the laying on of my hands; 7 for God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.

8 Do not be ashamed, then, of the testimony about our Lord or of me his prisoner, but join with me in suffering for the gospel, relying on the power of God, 9 who saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works but according to his own purpose and grace. This grace was given to us in Christ Jesus before the ages began, 10 but it has now been revealed through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, who abolished death and brought life and immortality to light through the gospel.

11 For this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher, 12 and for this reason I suffer as I do. But I am not ashamed, for I know the one in whom I have put my trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard until that day what I have entrusted to him. 13 Hold to the standard of sound teaching that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. 14 Guard the good treasure entrusted to you, with the help of the Holy Spirit living in us.

Mark 1:40-45

40 A leper came to him begging him, and kneeling he said to him, ‘If you choose, you can make me clean.’ 41 Moved with pity, Jesus stretched out his hand and touched him, and said to him, ‘I do choose. Be made clean!’ 42 Immediately the leprosy left him, and he was made clean. 43 After sternly warning him he sent him away at once, 44 saying to him, ‘See that you say nothing to anyone; but go, show yourself to the priest, and offer for your cleansing what Moses commanded, as a testimony to them.’ 45 But he went out and began to proclaim it freely, and to spread the word, so that Jesus could no longer go into a town openly, but stayed out in the country; and people came to him from every quarter.

STARTER THOUGHTS

Looking at 2 Timothy first, what stands out to you in this passage? Is there a particular portion that really speaks to you?

One of the things I’m struck with is how Paul names Timothy’s grandmother, Lois, and his mother, Eunice in the letter. Paul celebrates how faith was passed down through generations to Timothy. For many who attend church today, this remains true. They were taught the ways of Christ from infancy, and their parents or a parental figure brought them to church, Sunday school, youth group, etc. However, cultural shifts have definitely occurred. Many adults today haven't been raised in the church and were not taught the ways of any particular faith growing up. How does or should this change the way we go about reaching out to others to share the love of God? Have we (the church) shifted with the times or do we still assume that most folks have a rudimentary understanding of the Gospel?  

My favorite portion of this section of 2 Timothy is: But I am not ashamed, for I know the one in whom I have put my trust, and I am sure that he is able to guard until that day what I have entrusted to him. Shame and honor played huge roles in First century Mediterranean society and still play major roles in our society today. Many people carry the stigma of shame daily: single parents, those receiving public assistance, those who are without a home…the list goes on. When are times in your life when you have felt shame? Were there people in your life who helped to lessen your burden? How did they do that? What does it mean to you to love God and others shamelessly? 

The brief excerpt from Mark tells of how Jesus healed a man with leprosy, who then began to tell everyone about it (even though Jesus told him to keep his mouth shut). Clearly, this man felt no shame in proclaiming the power of Christ! This story is one of many in which Jesus touches the “untouchables” of society. As we gather for a celebration of World Communion Sunday this week, give some thought to who the “untouchables” are today…in our neck of the woods and across the globe. How is the world reaching out to those whom others shun?

World Communion Sunday is an ecumenical effort (meaning lots of other churches and other denominations engage in it). It actually started in a Presbyterian church, but has since spread and is now celebrated globally by all manner of Christians. The United Methodist Church takes a special collection on this Sunday to fund scholarships that help equip racial- and ethnic-minority students in the United States and international students to transform our churches and communities. Some personal stories about the ministries made possible through this offering can be found here. In reading these stories, were you surprised to learn about these ministries? Was there a particular story that really inspired you?

As always, I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Please feel free to email me or post here!

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for September 29th

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online Bible study of the Wacousta Community United Methodist Church. The lectionary texts this week include: Jeremiah 32:1-3a, 6-15, Psalm 91:1-6, 14-16, 1 Timothy 6:6-19, and Luke 16:19-31. I’ll be preaching from Timothy this Sunday. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts.

1 TIMOTHY 6:6-19

6 Of course, there is great gain in godliness combined with contentment; 7 for we brought nothing into the world, so that we can take nothing out of it; 8 but if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. 9 But those who want to be rich fall into temptation and are trapped by many senseless and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. 10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.

11 But as for you, man of God, shun all this; pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, gentleness. 12 Fight the good fight of the faith; take hold of the eternal life, to which you were called and for which you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses. 13 In the presence of God, who gives life to all things, and of Christ Jesus, who in his testimony before Pontius Pilate made the good confession, I charge you 14 to keep the commandment without spot or blame until the manifestation of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 which he will bring about at the right time—he who is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings and Lord of lords. 16 It is he alone who has immortality and dwells in unapproachable light, whom no one has ever seen or can see; to him be honor and eternal dominion. Amen.

17 As for those who in the present age are rich, command them not to be haughty, or to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but rather on God who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share, 19 thus storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of the life that really is life.

STARTER THOUGHTS

Verse 6 starts with the admonition that real gain is to be found in godliness with “autarkeia,” a phrase that gets translated as “contentment.” This phrase also implied self-sufficiency and extoled the virtue of a simple life in which one accepts the hand they’ve been dealt in life. I’m guessing we all know people who never quite seem content and others who seem to manage whatever comes there way. This teaching doesn’t really account for the harsh reality that some folks are dealt a much harder hand than others. Recent studies in brain development and trauma have also revealed that there are certain genetic markers that contribute to how one responds to trauma. In other words, some of us are genetically predisposed to handling trauma and stress better than others. For these reasons and others, I have a hard time preaching “contentment,” because I fear that it forces folks to “put on a happy face,” when deep inside they are really hurting or upset.

What does contentment mean for you? Would you consider yourself (generally) content or discontent? What are the greatest factors that contribute to your contentment or lack thereof? Have there been times you felt you had to “act” content or felt guilty because you didn’t feel contentment?

The author warns against setting wealth as one’s life goal. He goes on to write an often misquoted piece of scripture in verse 10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, and in their eagerness to be rich some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many pains.” Usually just the first part of this verse gets quoted. I think the remainder of it (as well as an accurate translation) helps to clarify that this doesn’t read that money is the root of all evil, but that the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil. He goes on to explain that he believes this to be true because chasing after wealth only ends up hurting us in the end.

If we aren’t careful, the church can really come across as having a double standard when it comes to money. After all, the church wouldn’t have survived to this day had it not been for the generous gifts and tithing of those who had the means to do so. What is the difference for you between having money and using it wisely (taking care of your family, sharing and giving generously) and chasing after money? Is it a pretty clear distinction for you or does the line get blurry now and then?

This text follows up nicely on last week’s lesson about serving God and not money. In this letter, the writer gives instruction on what folks who are wealthy should do with their resources: “do good…be rich in good works, generous, and ready to share…” This instruction is helpful for all of us, rich or poor, as we are all blessed with different resources and gifts. While some members of the body of Christ may have material wealth, others have time, gifts, skills, etc. In fact, I’ve found that often folks have an easier time giving their money than they do claiming and sharing the gifts they have.

Many Christians lack the confidence to claim their gifts because they don’t want to appear boastful, or they downplay their gifts because their talents are unique and don’t fit neatly into a committee or role in the church or community. Are there resources/gifts that you share more freely than others? Are there gifts that God’s given you that you’ve been hesitant to claim and share? What holds you back?

Finally, all of this instruction concludes with the goal: “so that [we] may take hold of the life that really is life.” What does it mean to you to take hold of life that is really life?

As always, I look forward to your thoughts and reflections. Feel free to email me or post a comment here.

Peace,

Pastor Amee

Prepared Hearts for September 22nd

Hello Friends,

Welcome back to Prepared Hearts, the online lectionary-based Bible study of Wacousta Community United Methodist Church. This week’s lectionary texts include: Jeremiah 8:18-9:1, Psalm 79:1-9, 1 Timothy 2:1-7, and Luke 16:1-13. I’ll be preaching from Luke. The text is below, followed by starter thoughts.

Luke 16:1-13

Then Jesus said to the disciples, ‘There was a rich man who had a manager, and charges were brought to him that this man was squandering his property. So he summoned him and said to him, “What is this that I hear about you? Give me an account of your management, because you cannot be my manager any longer.” Then the manager said to himself, “What will I do, now that my master is taking the position away from me? I am not strong enough to dig, and I am ashamed to beg. I have decided what to do so that, when I am dismissed as manager, people may welcome me into their homes.”

So, summoning his master’s debtors one by one, he asked the first, “How much do you owe my master?” He answered, “A hundred jugs of olive oil.” He said to him, “Take your bill, sit down quickly, and make it fifty.” Then he asked another, “And how much do you owe?” He replied, “A hundred containers of wheat.” He said to him, “Take your bill and make it eighty.” And his master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly; for the children of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than are the children of light. And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of dishonest wealth so that when it is gone, they may welcome you into the eternal homes.

 ‘Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much; and whoever is dishonest in a very little is dishonest also in much. If then you have not been faithful with the dishonest wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? And if you have not been faithful with what belongs to another, who will give you what is your own? No slave can serve two masters; for a slave will either hate the one and love the other, or be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and wealth.’

STARTER THOUGHTS

The Parable of the Dishonest Steward isn’t a favorite of mine, but it has a lot to tell us about how we handle resources. In this story, a deceitful manager gets caught ripping off his boss. In order to save his own neck, he continues to squander his master’s wealth and then gets commended for it! Personally, I like a story where the bad guy gets his comeuppance, not one in which he gets praised for being “shrewd.” Does this trouble or confuse you?

 One thing to keep in mind as we look at this scripture is that stories of tricksters and wise rogues were common in Jewish folklore. The steward in this story not only ensures his own future, but he extends benevolence on behalf of the master, something that will make the debtors even more obliged to pay their remaining debt. He is definitely very cunning. How does this apply to our own lives? What are some examples of times when you’ve needed to be shrewd? How was your behavior interpreted by others?

I really like Jesus’ statement, “Whoever is faithful in a very little is faithful also in much.” Stewardship is such a fundamental Christian principle that I think we lose sight of the fact that it is a journey of faith and a practice that takes time to develop. This particular parable deals with large sums of property and goods. Often when we think of “stewardship” our minds jump to big things: houses, cars, bank accounts, etc. Yet, how we care for the simple things (our clothing, our gardens, our tools or dishes, for example) train us for how to care for the big things. What are some ways you can build your stewardship muscles by taking better care of little things?  

There is a type of theology that is very popular in some churches that preaches that God wants Christians to be wealthy. “Prosperity Gospel,” as it is called, holds that wealth is not only okay, but that it is God’s will that we become rich. Needless to say, this teaching is very appealing to folks, especially Christians who are or wish to be wealthy. To be fair, an admonition is paired with this prosperity teaching that holds that the more wealth you have, the more money you can share (then folks are encouraged to give generously to the church as the pastor drives away in a shiny new Benz). 

As you can tell from the tone I use in writing about this way of interpreting the gospel, it makes my stomach turn. I just find it hard to believe that Jesus, who said, “Go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor,” wants us to spend our short time on earth accumulating large sums of money. I think it’s hard enough for any of us, regardless of our financial status, to not serve wealth in one way or another. What do you think? Can one have great wealth and not end up being a slave to it?  Where do we draw the line between being good stewards of our finances and allowing our concern about money or resources to trump our love of God?

As always, I look forward to your thoughts and reflections. You can email me or post here.

Peace,

Amee

Prepared Hearts for September 15th

Hello Friends,

This week’s Prepared Hearts comes to us from Andy Sass, who will be delivering the word this Sunday:

This week, we will be moving back to the lectionary, reading from Paul’s first letter to Timothy.  The text is below, followed by some starter thoughts.

1 Timothy 1:12-17

12 I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. 13 Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. 14 The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus.

15 Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16 But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 17 Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

STARTER THOUGHTS:

In this text Paul reiterates the Good News of the Gospel – that even sinners are shown mercy.  When have you been shown mercy?

Paul talks about his history as a persecutor of the church, and says that, even so, God shows him mercy, gives him strength, and appoints him to His service.  Despite your failures or flaws, has God called you to his service?  When?  How?  How did you respond?

Paul talks about his having been a “blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man,” and goes on to say that, because of who he was, God showed him mercy, so he would be an example, for the honor and glory of God.  In doing this, Paul is using his prior failings to give honor to God.  Have you ever done the same?  Are you willing to give God whatever God asks, for God's glory? Even if God asks you to give him your failures? Your sin?

We know that Paul repented, and followed God’s will for his life, that he paid a price, according to this world, for his choice.  Have you paid a price for your decisions to be Christ’s disciple?

Feel free to email Andy or I your thoughts or post a comment here.

Peace,

Pastor Amee