The Secret of Contentment

Scripture: Philippians 4:10-13 

I recently celebrated another birthday. The older I get, the more I realize that birthdays are gifts in themselves. They are also a time for remembrance, reflection, and assessment. It’s good to remember the past and the occasions that have brought special joy to life. It’s also good to reflect on life’s accomplish-ments.  And in reviewing our past and reflecting on what we have accomplished, we are reminded not only of our blessings, but also the challenges of present reality. I think that’s what motivated the Apostle Paul to write to the Christians at Philippi. He wanted to share his story, his experiences, his faith journey, his life challenges, and what leads to contentment. So he reviewed his past, and his accomplishments for the Lord, and shared a valuable lesson that we all need to learn as we age: the secret of contentment.  No matter where we are in life’s journey, or our age in years, or what we may be facing, until we discover the secret to contentment, fulfillment in life will escape us. Perhaps that’s what the season of Lent is about. For it, too, is a time for remembrance, reflection, and assessment. To do so is to grow to a deeper level of faith.

In his letter to the Christians in Philippi written from his prison cell, Paul shared “the secret to contentment.”  He had learned an important lesson that many miss in life. This is how he expressed it: “I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation.” What a bold claim, especially given his circumstances at the time he wrote it. After only a few years of ministry and service for Christ, he was falsely arrested and sent to a Roman prison. Though confined to a cell, he was concerned about the churches he started and aware that they needed his immediate attention and leadership. After all, they were new Christians, babes in the faith, in need of guidance from one who was more mature in the newly formed Christian faith. And so Paul took control of his circumstances and wrote words of encouragement and instructions from his prison cell to several of the churches he had started. These writings are known as the “Prison Epistles” and include Philippians, Ephesians, Colossians and Philemon.

Notice these words Paul wrote: “I have learned the secret.” The word learned implies a process.  As Paul grew older in his spiritual life, he discovered the truth about content-ment. He referred to it as a “secret” because the truth he discovered is a truth that eludes so many believers. It is a truth we long for and yet often miss. Who among us doesn’t desire contentment in life, especially in our later years?

Paul went on to write that he had learned the secret of being content not just in past accomplishments. He didn’t boast of his accomplishments, or his work as an apostle to the Gentiles. Nor did he brag about the sermons he preached, the diversity of the lives of the people he touched with Christ’s message, or the churches he had started even though he was the greatest missionary for Christ of all time. Rather he had become content with his present situation: a humble servant of Christ imprisoned for sharing the gospel.

So what lessons does Paul offer us for gaining contentment in our lives? Let me share several insights that may help us in our Lenten journey.

Paul reminded us that to experience contentment, we must first begin by refusing to blame our circumstances, or the people who impact our lives for our lack of contentment.  We live in a time when it seems to be popular to cast blame when things are not going well. We often criticize others without taking responsibility. As long as we blame others for what’s going on around us, we will never understand what is happening within us. When circumstances rob us of our inner peace and joy, we must take responsibility to overcome what pulls us down and not let those circumstances prevent us from seeking contentment. It’s only when we begin to look for contentment though faith, that we find what we need to deal with adversity. For Paul, contentment wasn’t about getting God to change his circumstances, but finding strength and endurance though faith to face whatever life’s circumstances brought his way.

   

Paul suggested that real contentment involves what’s happening inside us, not around us.  We are tempted to believe that our contentment (or happiness) depends on our ability to control what is going on around us. So we spend a great deal of time and energy trying to control our environment and the people in it. We can’t always control things that happen, but we can control our response to what happens. For Paul, what was happening to him didn’t overwhelm what was happening in him. He was able to control his response and in so doing, he became content. His contentment was internal – faith-formed -- and he never lost the joy that comes from living for the Lord. In that relationship he found strength to deal with all circumstances and in so doing, found contentment.

Paul suggested that contentment comes from knowing that God knows what we need based on what is best for us. God is not committed to providing us with our every wish and heart’s desire for what we think will bring happiness, but rather to providing what we need to bring true happiness and contentment n life. The secret of contentment, then, includes distinguishing between what we need and what we want. It means rejoicing over God’s promise to meet our needs.

Paul’s secret of contentment is based on obedience to God’s desires and trusting God with all things. If we really trust God – if we really believe God loves us and has our best interests in mind – when things fall apart around us, they don’t have to fall apart inside of us. Contentment is trusting God even when things seem out of control. Paul trusted God completely. When things fell apart around him, he kept trusting in God. That’s what led him to affirm: “I can do all things through Him who gives me strength.” To paraphrase, “I can endure any circumstance without losing my peace and joy because of the strength I gain through my relationship with Jesus.”  As the hymn suggests, trusting and obeying God are acts of faith that result in a deeper relationship with God through Jesus Christ and therefore bring contentment.

A little more than a decade ago, I was in my fourth year as the Richmond District Superintendent, and not far from the anticipated age of retirement. I was in my final appointment as a clergy member of the Virginia Conference.  In December 2000, a month prior to my 62^nd birthday, I was visiting with one of the district pastors who asked me a profound question. “What more do you want to accomplish before you retire?” That question became an assessment impetus which led to a soul-searching experience and that of seeking God’s new direction for my life. I consequently made the decision to retire from the appointment process and begin a new chapter of ministry. I was led to venture in faith and trust God with my future. Once I announced my plans to retire and requested the retired status, God’s plan for me became clear. I experienced contentment not only with my decision, but for whatever the future would hold, even amid the uncertainties. I was led to form a new ministry of equipping leadership for more effective ministry through coaching and workshops. The lesson I learned even after almost 40 years of ministry was this: Contentment comes from trusting God not only with our present, but with our future, and when we do, God will provide what is needed, no matter the circumstances

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I am enjoying reading a book that stimulates my thinking and feeds my soul and I recommend it to you. The book is titled “Pilgrimage into the Last Third of Life,” co-authored by Jane Thibault and Richard Morgan. The writers are at two different places on the spectrum of aging: one in her 60’s, the other in his 80’s.  Their writings about their life experiences offer insights about attaining contentment. One of the many important thoughts shared in their book that I found helpful was this: As we age and mature in the faith, we discover that we become a “Christ-gift” for others. What that means, they suggest is “that in all circumstances our lives will remain meaningful to us and be of use to others.” (p.82)  They suggest that even though increased in years when we are no longer defined by our employment, profession, or status in society, and little may be expected from us, “we might consider the act of being a ‘Christ-gift’ to the world as our work, our calling, our vocation for this time of life in whatever condition we find ourselves.” We never become too old to allow Christ to be revealed through our lives.

Indeed, contentment comes from cultivating our relationship with God, trusting God, obedience, and faithfulness.  Contentment comes from doing the things that reflect God’s will and purposes for our lives. We can be content knowing that God enables us to deal with all the challenges life brings, and provides us with strength to be faithful. 

Such are the marks of discipleship lived by Christ. When our lives reflect Christ at work in us, we will discover the secret to contentment. And, we, too, will be able to affirm with the Apostle Paul: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” May that be your experience as we journey through Lent and beyond.  

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This sermon was preached for the worship service at the Cedarfield United Methodist Retirement Home in Richmond on February 24, 2013. 

Resolutions for Holy Living

One of my favorite cartoons by Charles Schultz features Charlie Brown and Lucy. In the opening caption Charlie Brown says to Lucy, "Happy New Year, Lucy! Have you made any new year's resolutions? Lucy replies, "New year's resolutions? Why should I make new year's resolutions? Resolutions are for people who aren't satisfied with the way they are, aren't they? Are you implying that there's something wrong with me? Do you think I need to improve? What's the matter with the way I am?  Do you see any room for improvement in my life?" The last picture shows a frowning Charlie Brown walking away saying, "Good grief, I'm sorry I brought it up!"

It is the time to bring it up, for resolutions are a part of beginning a new year. Resolutions are at best an attempt to examine life and determine what needs to be done to improve its quality. To engage in such a process causes us to evaluate what life has been like, and to dream of what life can become. This, I believe, is-a good-exercise for as Christians. We should consider some resolutions for holy living in 2013, for I suspect, unlike Lucy, none of us are content with the way we are, and we can see room for improvement.

In the third chapter of Colossians, the Apostle Paul offered resolutions for holy living. He wrote these words of encouragement and guidance to provide direction for living for the Christians of his day. He commended them for their faithfulness in Christ, and expressed hope that they would be filled with the knowledge of God's will. He also expressed his desire that they might have wisdom and spiritual understanding so they might walk worthy of the Lord, be fruitful in every good work, and increase in the knowledge of God. Paul's words, even though they were written almost two thousand years ago, still challenge us to a life of more faithful and holy living.

In the letter to the Colossians, Paul reminded those Christians that Christ's followers are chosen people, holy and dearly loved, whose lives should reflect certain holy characteristics. Consider what he wrote: "Since you have been chosen by God who has given you this new kind of life, and because of his deep love and concern for you, you should practice tenderhearted mercy and kindness to others. Don't worry about making a good impression on them but be ready to suffer quietly and patiently. Be gentle and ready to forgive; never hold grudges. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others. Most of all, let love guide your life, for then the whole church will stay together in perfect harmony. Let the peace of heart which comes from Christ be always present in your hearts and lives, for this is your responsibility and privilege as members of his body. And always be thankful.” (The Living Bible) After meditating upon these words, I have developed my own list of resolutions for holy living. I hope you will do the same.

First, I resolve to remember what God has done in my life and to be thankful.  Charles Swindoll gives a good illustration of life using an oyster and pearl. He writes: "Pearls are the product of pain. For some unknown reason, the shell of the oyster gets pierced and an alien substance--a grain of sand-- slips inside. On the entry of that foreign irritant, all the resources within the tiny, sensitive oyster rush to the spot and begin to release healing fluids that otherwise would remain dormant. By and by, the irritant is covered and the wound is healed, and a pearl is formed. No other gem has so fascinating a history. It is the symbol of stress--a healed wound, a precious tiny jewel conceived through irritation, born of adversity, nursed by adjustments. Had there been no wounding, no irritating interruption, there could have been no pearl.”  When I review my life, and realize what God has done, there is cause for thanksgiving. We must all remember that God can transform our lives into something beautiful and valuable, even in the midst of pain and suffering.  We need to look for the "pearls" that have resulted from pain of the past and thank God for the good resulting from such pain. I resolve to remember what God has done in my life and to be thankful. How about you?

Second, I resolve to be more patient and merciful. I have learned some valuable lessons from parishioners. Some have given me the gifts of their patience and mercy. In my first sermon in a new appointment I would usually say, "No doubt you will have many expectations of me as your new pastor. I will also have expectations of you. I will probably not live up to all of your expectations, nor will you live up to all of mine." I'm sure that has been true in every appointment. Yet what has brought me thus far is a deep awareness of the importance of patience in the midst of my impatience. Not only because of the inspiration of the scriptures, but because of what have learned from patient family members and friends, I resolve to be more patient and merciful in the new year. How about you?

Third, I resolve to experience and practice forgiveness. Being given a new year is like being given a brand new chalkboard and a fresh box of chalk. We can do with it as we like. Hopefully some of our "scribbling" on the chalkboard of life will be for the good, and will reflect the spirit and attitude of the one whom we are called to follow. But even when we fall short and mess up, God gives us an eraser so we can change our mistakes. The process is called forgiveness. I have made many mistakes in my lifetime, and will make many more, but what keeps me going and risking, is the assurance of God's forgiveness and the gift of forgiveness available for and from others. Healing takes place when we experience forgiveness. We can move forward toward a brighter and better day. We all need that assurance as we begin a new year. We need forgiveness for our own sake and for the Church's sake. I resolve to experience and practice forgiveness.  How about you? 

Fourth, I resolve to work harder at letting Christ-like love guide my life. Paul helps us understand how Christmas love can find expression in our lives. Remember what he said to the Christian community in Corinth in that great passage called the "love chapter"? It is in the 13th chapter of I Corinthians that we find the formula for  Christ-like love. It is not some sentimental, mushy feeling, but specific expressions of behavior that reach out and touch peoples' lives. Paul concluded that great list of love characteristics with these words: "Make love your aim." So important is this expression of faith that he included it again as he wrote his letter to the Colossians. As Christians we must ask, "What ways can Christ's love find expression through me?" As I ask that question I resolve to let Christ-like love guide my life. How about you?

Fifth, I resolve to spend more time searching for God's will for my life each day. There have been times when my life was so filled with activities that I simply went through the motions without asking how God’s will was involved in all I was doing. I eventually learned that the most important priority for a pastor is not keeping everyone happy, making a good impression, impressing peers or accomplishing great tasks to build a name for yourself. Pastors have a responsibility to discover and fulfill God's will for their lives and to help parishioners do the same. A pastor’s single most important task in ministry is to understand and be faithful to his/her calling, so that what he/she does with his/her life in living the gospel will be pleasing to God. What's true of a pastor’s calling and actions is also true of laity.

I once visited with a dear elderly and faithful church member who said that she begins each day with a simple prayer: "Lord, what do you want me to do today?"  I resolve to spend more time searching for God's will for my life and to be open to wherever He chooses to lead me. How about you?

As we begin a new year, may we discern what is required of us to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. May our resolutions shape a lifestyle of holy living that will be pleasing to God. 

Pentecost Faith

The history of the Christian church is a fascinating chronicle.  From its beginnings in the first century, various ways were used to tell the unique story of God’s love through Jesus Christ.  The central message is referred to as the gospel, meaning good news, and it has been told in many ways.  At first, it was by oral tradition -- word of mouth -- one believer tells someone else; then through preaching by the Apostles and others, and later by writings, especially through the accounts written by the gospel writers Matthew, Mark, Luke and John and the Apostle Paul through his letters to the first century churches.  

Creedal statements were written at different periods, the first of which was the historic Apostle’s Creed based on the theological understanding of the gospels.  As the church gained momentum, great cathedrals were built, most of which included stained glass windows that depicted significant parts of the faith story.  As time passed, other art forms were used: hymns and poems, paintings and other works of art. 

Eventually the seasons of the church were identified and formed the liturgical calendar with each season representing a significant event to remember and celebrate.  I can’t imagine a year without Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter, can you?   So we celebrate the holy seasons which brings to mind God’s mighty acts on our behalf trough Jesus Christ.  We proclaim Jesus Christ as the foundation and cornerstone of the church. And we affirm our faith in the resurrected Lord, and claim the promise of the resurrection offered to the faithful. And that we did seven weeks ago on Easter Sunday.

Following Jesus’ resurrection on that first Easter Sunday, there was a time of waiting.  It was time of reflection on the events that had transpired and what would happen next.  It was also a time to prepare for yet another of God’s gifts: the coming of the Holy Spirit. That leads us to today’s observance of Pentecost and an examination of the Pentecost faith that has keep the church alive and moving forward for twenty plus centuries.  Pentecost is referred to as the “birthday of the Church” and refers to the fact that on that Pentecost day long ago, people “came alive in the faith.”  But that occasion is more than a historical event recorded in scriptures that happened long ago.  There was a new birth in faith and a renewed spirit in the lives of believers.

So, what does Pentecost have to do with us today?  Pentecost, like the other seasons, calls us to remember and claim the unique message that has been proclaimed for centuries and continues to be offered today. Pentecost faith means that God offers the gift of the Holy Spirit to believers for faith living.

The New Testament Acts of the Apostles provides a picture of the formation of the first century church.  In Acts 1:8 we are told about Jesus’ ascension.  His final message to his disciples was a promise.  “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”  These words laid the foundation for what happened at Pentecost described in Chapter 2 of Acts.

Pentecost was originally a Jewish holiday – a festival of the spring harvest. People had come to Jerusalem to celebrate this annual event.   The Apostles sensed that it was a great time and opportunity to proclaim what God had done in Jesus Christ.  So, that is precisely what they did. The Acts scripture records Peter’s marvelous sermon that not only proclaimed what God had done in Jesus Christ,  but also how God was pouring out his Spirit upon  the lives of the believers. As Peter talked, people began to surrender themselves to this power beyond themselves. According to scriptures, on that day some three thousand welcomed the message and were baptized into the faith. (Acts 2:37-42)  And this is how scriptures recorded what happened next:  “they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and prayers.” (v.42)   

We are so far removed from that first Pentecost experience that we have a hard time comprehending what actually happened. But we can realize its impact upon history. The scripture describes that first Pentecost in symbolic language: “a rush like a mighty wind”…“divided tongues, as of fire”…  We hear these words and can imagine what seems to have been happening in people’s lives. But we still might wonder, what was the meaning of such an experience?  Perhaps it can be stated more simply without image language:  When God’s Spirit works in the lives of people, their lives are transformed  and unexpected and sometimes extraordinary things become possible. Such is the work of the Holy Spirit. The words of a Modern Affirmation speak of the Holy Spirit this way: “We believe in the Holy Spirit as the divine presence in our lives, whereby by we are kept in perpetual remembrance of the truth of Christ, and find strength and help in times of need.”  When we allow God’s Spirit into our lives, even today, we can be transformed and empowered to do the unexpected and extraordinary thing that is needed to the glory of God.  

Pentecost may be called the “birthday of church.”   The awareness of the Holy Spirit is an on-going miracle in individual lives that brings new birth and renewed faith in people’s lives. The Apostle Paul had his Pentecost experience on the Damascus Road. Two other disciples had theirs on the Emmaus Road.  John Wesley experienced his Pentecost at a prayer meeting on Aldersgate Street in London.  A young preacher fresh out of seminary had his Pentecost experience at his grandmother’s funeral when he experienced the power of the Holy Spirit at work in his life. Countless others have also discovered the transforming power of the Pentecost faith and have had their faith renewed and their lives enriched.

Several years ago I discovered a song recorded by a ministerial colleague that I consider to be a Pentecost prayer about what can happen in a person’s life when the gift of the spirit that Pentecost offers is accepted.  It’s called, “Fully Alive.”  Here are the words of that song:  The chorus goes like this:  “Fully alive in Your Spirit, Lord, make me fully alive. Fully aware of Your presence, Lord, totally, fully alive.”

“Don't let me miss all the glory around me, waiting for heaven someday to come. Open my eyes to miraculous Monday and make my feet march to eternity's drum.” 

“Don't let me wait for some far off forever, to say what I feel to the ones I hold dear. Risking the pain and the joy of loving, keep me awake and alive while I'm here.”

“Fully alive in Your Spirit, Lord, make me fully alive. Fully aware of Your presence, Lord, totally, fully alive.”   

I love this song's melody and its message, for it reminds me that Pentecost is not only a historical happening, but it can be a present reality.  With the Spirit at work in our lives, we can become “fully alive” and live in the present moment of each day.   Life has meaning and purpose. Every day is viewed as a gift and an opportunity to witness to God’s love and share it with others. We become fully alive when we put our Pentecost faith into practice. That should be our hope on this Pentecost Sunday!  

We need the presence of the Holy Spirit filling us, inspiring us, guiding us, strengthening us, and equipping us to be faithful follows of Christ.  Pentecost is a promise that reminds us that we are not alone, and that power is available to face the challenges of each day through the presence of the Holy Spirit.

Bishop Ralph Edward Dodge was the first Methodist bishop elected by the Africa Central Conference.  In his later years as he approached 80, he wrote in his autobiography these words:  “We anticipate creative years ahead under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Undaunted we face the future with the assurance that our lives are on God’s hands.”   That’s the promise of Pentecost faith.

Last week in preparation for Pentecost worship, a pastor friend posted these words on Facebook:  “On Pentecost Sunday we will be releasing 12 white doves along with red, yellow and orange helium balloons at the benediction. They will be released outside on the front lawn. Our church’s Mime Troupe will be performing during worship and our children and confirmands will be singing... come experience the movement and power of the Holy Spirit with us!”  

Well, today we don’t have doves. There are no colorful balloons. We have no choir, no special performances, no fanfare. We aren’t gathered in a church sanctuary with stained glass windows.  But we know that God’s Presence still shows up in all places that honor his name and seek to worship and offer praise.  And if we are receptive, God’s Spirit will come again and again offering us comfort and strength for the living of these days.

Thanks Living

Not long ago famous people all over the world were polled by a magazine which asked them the question, "If you could be granted one wish to come true right now, what would that be?" There were some very interesting responses, but one response impressed the magazine's editors so much that they commented further. That response was: “I wish that I could be given an even greater ability to appreciate all that I already have." To give thanks sounds simple, doesn’t it? But too often we take things for granted, especially the small and everyday things that are a part of God’s bountiful blessings. An old Scottish preach once offered this prayer during a Thanksgiving service: “O Lord, you have given us much. Give us one thing more: grateful hearts!” Perhaps that should be our prayer as well.

The Psalms are among the most popular scriptures in the Bible. I think that is true in part because the Psalmist (most of them attributed to King David) wrote about his personal relationship with God amidst the challenges of life. Many of the insightful passages are ones of praise and thanksgiving that suggest how we are to respond to God’s gracious acts towards us. In addition to the verses I read from the Psalms, you may recall some of these:
“I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.” (9:1)

“It is good to give thanks to the Lord, to sing praises to your name, O Most High. (92:1)

“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.” (100:4)

“Oh, give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples! Sing to him, sing praises to him; tell of all his wondrous works!” (105:1-2)

Our relationship with God and an awareness of God’s gracious acts and blessings in our lives cause us to respond by giving thanks.

One of the most meaningful faith lessons I have learned was from an elderly member of Monumental United Methodist Church. During a visit with her, I asked her how she began her day. She replied, “I begin each day in prayer by thanking God. I say, “Good morning, Lord. This is Sally. Thanks for the gift of another day.” The lesson is a simple but profound one. Beginning the day by thanking God sets the tone for how the day will go. As people of faith, we do not face life alone, but with God’s Presence and guidance, we find strength for living each day as a gift from our gracious God.

The Apostle Paul offered many insights about the importance of giving thanks to God. To the Christians in Thessalonica he wrote: "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." (I Thess. 5:18)

To the Christians in Philippi, he wrote: "Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God." (4:6)

And to the church in Ephesus he offered this imperative: "Be filled with the spirit, as you sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, singing and making melody to the Lord in your hearts, giving thanks to God the Father at all times and for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." (5:19b-20)

To give thanks is one way we can praise God and become a blessing to God. But too often instead of wanting to praise God or offer thanksgiving, we forget the doxology we sing -- “Praise God from whom all blessings flow.” There are times, especially when things aren’t going well, when we feel sorry for ourselves, and fail to turn to God by giving thanks in all circumstances. But to do so even in difficult times, connects us with God who will see us though each and every day no matter what it may bring.

The instructions for faithful living as disciples were clear. Giving thanks was the norm of the first century disciples and has been a spiritual discipline practiced by Christians of every century. Giving thanks in all circumstances, giving thanks for everything, giving thanks at all times, making thanksgiving a way of life. These are the expressions of faithful Christians who recognize God’s blessings in their lives.

When our grandson, Jacob, began to talk, he was taught to say, “Thank you.” But he had his own way of saying it. His response to someone doing something for him or giving him something was “Thank you very much!” It is a good thing to teach our children to say “thank you” but it is even a greater thing to teach them thanksgiving as a way of life.

Thanksgiving is usually a time for family gatherings. I have many fond memories of times when my parents and I gathered with family members to enjoy a great feast on Thanksgiving Day. It was a part of our family tradition. There was always more than enough food, which as a child I took for granted. Our Thanksgiving gathering was often held at one of my aunts’ whose house was twice the size of mine and could accommodate the large gathering of aunts, uncles, and cousins. The day’s events included a typical Thanksgiving Day meal: Turkey with all the trimmings- an assortment of vegetables, home- made pies, and my Aunt Mattie’s famous pound cake, all topped off with watching football on TV! Almost everyone ate too much, and no one ever talked about the homeless and hungry, lonely, and the less fortunate. As I grew into adulthood, I began to ask some serious questions about how Thanksgiving should be observed. Certainly it is to be a spiritual time of acknowledging God’s blessings, but it also is about how we might become a blessing to others.

Thanksgiving should cause each of us to contemplate such questions as: “Do I count my blessings regularly?” “Do I have a faith that is thankful in everything?” But perhaps the most important question we need to consider is: “In acknowledging God as the Giver of every good and perfect gift, how can I also respond in “thanks living?” Thanksgiving not only causes us to count our blessings, but to go beyond. While I’m sure God is pleased with our praise and thanks, I believe God is more pleased when we turn thanksgiving into acts of thanks living! Thanks living is expressed in simple ways all of us can do. It may take the form of contributing to charities that help feed and clothe the poor, a visit with someone who is experiencing grief, or a note or a phone call to someone who is lonely. Acts of thanks living are whatever acts of kindness address the needs of others. Thanks living is a lifestyle of compassion that fulfills Jesus’ commandment to his disciples to “love one another as I have loved you.”

For several years, my daughter has hosted our Thanksgiving family gathering. If her next door neighbor, a widower, is home alone, she invites him for the meal. When someone at her work place has no family nearby, or place to go, she extends an invitation to join us. That’s what it means to turn thanksgiving into thanks living – addressing the needs of others and responding with gracious acts of kindness.

There is power in giving thanks that renews our attitudes and spirits which leads us to respond in acts of thanks living. Giving thanks with a grateful heart blesses the person who is thanked and transforms the one who gives thanks. God wants us to be blessed, to acknowledge our blessings, and to be a blessing!

The psalmist declared: "It is good to give thanks to the LORD, to sing praises to his name." And so it is today. This song expresses it this way: “Give thanks with a grateful heart. Give thanks to the Holy One. Give thanks, for he’s given Jesus Christ, his Son. And now let the weak say I am strong; let the poor say I am rich because of what the Lord for has done for us. Give thanks… Give thanks!” Indeed! To discover the true meaning of Thanksgiving, give thanks, then practice thanks living be a blessing to others! Amen!

Pentecost Faith

Society marks time by the four seasons: summer, fall, winter, spring. For us here in Virginia, each season is unique and has certain characteristics. Last Tuesday we began the season of summer, and now we will have weeks of hot and often humid weather.

Christianity also marks time by seasons. The Christian calendar begins with Advent, followed by Christmas, Epiphany, Lent, Easter and Pentecost. While the dates for the seasonal observances change, each season is a time to celebrate a specific activity that is part of the story of Christianity. Each story represents what God has done on our behalf.

On June 5 of this year, we observed Pentecost Sunday, 50 days following Easter, a time marked by the coming of the Holy Spirit into the lives of believers. That fascinating story is described in the 2^nd chapter of the Acts of the Apostles. Amazing things happened; lives were transformed… Pentecost power became real. This occasion resulted in the birth of the church and the empowerment of believers to continue what Jesus had begun.

But Pentecost is more than an historical event of long ago or an observance of a Sunday in the Christian calendar. It holds a message for all seasons. Pentecost was indeed a transforming event that changed lives and enabled the story of God’s love through Christ to continue to be told and lived. Pentecost faith shaped the life of the church from the beginning and is still a vital part of our faith experience today. It was then and is now a transforming moment in the lives of believers. As a vital part of God’s story through Christ, it is a reminder that we have been given a gift through the Holy Spirit.

Following that Pentecost experience described in the New Testament Acts of the Apostles, many of those present asked a profound question that we need to address today. In Acts 2, verse 12 we read: “All were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, ‘What does this mean?’”

From the story recorded in Acts we envision Pentecost symbolized by wind and fire. But for us today, Pentecost is not about experiencing exactly what the first century believers experienced. Pentecost is about whenever and wherever one experiences the presence of God and receives strength for living. It is about receiving the gift of God’s Spirit -- God’s gift to us for life’s journey of faith.

To experience Pentecost, we must be open to receiving the gift. Sometimes we have to ask for the gift. In other times it is offered when we need it, but we ignore it. I have discovered the older I get, the more I need to accept and rely on God’s gift of Pentecost. For without it, life is more difficult—life’s potential is incomplete.

Can you recall a time in your faith journey when you had a Pentecost experience? I can…many times-- Just last Saturday while conducting a memorial service for a 53 year-old who committed suicide; a time when I stood by the bedside with the family of a dying friend as life support was disconnected; and a time when I made a life-changing decision about my future and sought guidance and the path was revealed. In all these times God’s Spirit was present offering what was needed for the moment: guidance, comfort, strength, and peace. That’s how God continues to work in our lives today through the gift of the Holy Spirit. That is what the Pentecost faith is about. Pentecost is about “God’s deeds of power!” (vs.11) revealed through the Holy Spirit.

I like the way The Holy Spirit has been defined in one of the historic creeds: “God’s presence with us providing comfort and strength in time of need.” A youngster in a confirmation class I once led defined the Holy Spirit this way: “The Holy Spirit is what God gives us to help us do what we can’t do by ourselves.”

So what is Pentecost faith? Pentecost faith is an ongoing miracle in the lives of believers. The promise of “power from on high” is available to us. Pentecost faith is about claiming the promise and receiving the gift of the abiding presence that defines us and equips us to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. As the creed affirms, “God is with us, providing strength for the journey.” So let us be open to receiving the gift of Pentecost that leads to faithful living.

The Power of Choice

I read a devotional recently that reminded me of an important truth. The author wrote: “We have more power than we realize. We have power because we can choose.” Of course every day requires choices; some are simple; some life-changing, but the power of choice is a gift we often take for granted.

Many of life’s choices require more than simply saying yes or no. They involve a lot of study and thought. The choices we make actually define who we are. Choices establish our core values that shape our faith and our actions, and determine how we live. As we are given the gift of each new day, we choose how we will use it. The question What will I do today? is ours to consider as each new day begins. Addressing the question will determine not only where we start but how we finish the day. Perhaps another question we need to ask as we address the choice of how to use each day is this: What do I want to accomplish? Choosing to set goals, regardless of how small, motivates us to stay active and productive, no matter what age we may be.

So all this got me to thinking about the choices we make to be a people of faith. The first choice we make as a people of faith is to choose a personal relationship with God. The key to meaningful faith is not just knowing about God, but knowing God in a personal way. The concept of choice is found throughout the Bible. Many of the stories are about choices people made and the consequences. The story of Adam and Eve in the book of Genesis is about being tempted to disobey God and choosing to be disobedient. That choice damaged their relationship with God and there were negative consequences because of their disobedience. That story is repeated in scriptures through the lives of many others. The stories are of humanity’s disobedience, and God’s efforts to restore broken relationships. In the Old Testament Joshua offered clear advice to those who had turned their backs on God: "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord." (Joshua 24:15)

Of course the ultimate scriptural story is of God’s reconciling love in Jesus Christ. So the second choice we make as people of faith is to follow Jesus. The call to discipleship first offered by Jesus was to a group of fishermen. It was expressed in an invitation that changed their lives forever: “Come, follow me and I will make you fishers of people.” It was an invitation to learn – to learn more about God and God’s desires for their lives. It was an invitation to develop a deeper relationship with God and to learn about grace, the depth of God’s love and forgiveness. It was an invitation to receive transforming power to become more than they were to the glory of God. It was an invitation, as the apostle Paul said in one of his letters, to become “new creatures.” The response was to choose commitment, obedience, sacrificial giving and living. Little did the first disciples know that when they responded to the invitation to follow Jesus that the road would lead to a cross. Nor did they know that doing so would result in a moment in history that would transform the world for all time. In every century since then, persons who have responded to the invitation to discipleship have done so based on a commitment expressed in the words of an old gospel song, I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back.”

The third choice we make as a people of faith is to live and love like Jesus. He said to those who would be his followers, “Come, take up your cross and follow me.” That is the invitation to a lifestyle of living that reflects Christ at work through us. It is a life of caring and compassion towards others. We can choose to ignore and hurt others, or choose to befriend and help others. We can choose to be indifferent toward others, or choose to love others, in response to Jesus’ new commandment to love one another as he has loved. We can choose our own self-centered desires, or we can choose God’s way as revealed in Jesus Christ.

My mother-in-law is almost 97 years old. She has many limitations because of health issues, but she can still get around because of an electric scooter. She lives in an assisted living facility in West Lafayette, Indiana. She is a person of deep faith who has been an inspiration to me, her family and many others who have come to know her. It is obvious that she recognizes each new day as a gift, and makes choices accordingly. She could choose to sit in front of her TV all day, except for meal times. She could choose to stay to herself, and ignore the world outside her room. But she doesn’t make those choices. In fact she is one of the most active senior residents in the home. She goes to Bible study regularly, and almost all of the other scheduled activities including exercise classes, even though she always has some pain or discomfort. She visits her friends and neighbors, and offers companionship for the journey. Each day she chooses to live life as fully as possible in a conscious awareness of others and their needs. She takes advantage of the opportunities each new day offers. She chooses to embrace life. In a sense, she chooses whom she will serve as long as she has breath.

The following verses were reported to have been written on the wall of Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta, India. “People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway. If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway. If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway. If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway. What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway. If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway. The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway. Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway. In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.” These inspiring words remind us that we have choices to make about how we can live with meaning and purpose.

A woman celebrating her 100 birthday was asked if she had any advice to offer. She replied, “Live by faith and take one day at a time, one step at a time. It’s all about choices we make. It’s up to us to make life as good as possible not only for ourselves but others as well.”

Life is about choices and the choices we make define who we are. “Choose this day whom you will serve.” Choose to live and love like Jesus. Choose today to live life as fully as possible. May God help us to choose wisely in all things as disciples of Jesus Christ.

Easter People

The Sunday after Easter, is sometimes referred to as “low Sunday” in the life of the church. Why? Because attendance is down, the crowds are gone, the events of Holy Week are over, the excitement of the “Hallelujah Chorus” has faded, and things have returned to a more normal and subdued pace. Following Easter, we must once again face day-to-day living in a Good Friday world often filled with challenging times and unexpected experiences. So how might the message of Jesus Christ's resurrection help us face everyday living?

Following Jesus’ crucifixion, even his chosen disciples asked, “What do we do now?” Some went back to their old ways of life. Earlier when Jesus asked his disciples, “Who do people say I am?” it was Peter who boldly replied, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God,” but, in the days following the crucifixion, even he returned to his trade as a fisherman.

Following the resurrection, it took a while for Jesus’ chosen disciples to become empowered to proclaim the Easter message and continue what he had begun. The central message of the Christian gospel was expressed in three words: “He has risen!” Once the disciples experienced Jesus’ resurrection and claimed that message and its meaning for their lives, they were renewed and transformed. They became empowered by Jesus’ words of promise and bore witness to what they had seen and heard. And in so doing they transformed the world with the message of the gospel! It was up to those early disciples to interpret the meaning of the resurrection through words and deeds.

That was then, some two thousand years ago. But this is now, the 21st century. What is supposed to happen after Easter? What does it take for us to move beyond despair to claim the hope of the Easter faith?

If Easter is to become more than a day to observe, its message must transform our lives too. Today it’s up to us as Christ’s 21st century disciples to interpret the meaning of the resurrection – to offer a message that transforms all despair into hope. We are called to claim the resurrection faith and become transformed to live as Easter people. But how do we live as Easter people in a Good Friday world?

Living as Easter people primarily involves two things: First, it’s about what we believe. Easter people claim Christ’s promises for faithful living.

Some of Jesus’ promises that he shared with his disciples that all can claim as his followers are these:

“Because I live, you shall live also.” “ I will be with you always…” “You shall receive power…”

Consider the implications of these promises for our lives. Because of Christ’s promises we can begin each new day in the secure knowledge that we will never again face life's obstacles alone! Our risen Lord gives us hope for the future, what ever it may bring.

Second, it’s about how we choose to live: Easter people live and love like Jesus.Again we look to Jesus to define the lifestyle we are to follow: Praying for guidance … Living a lifestyle of compassion and servant-hood… Sacrificial giving/living. We need to ask, "How are these expressions of discipleship being expressed in our lives?

As Easter people we need to remember Christ’s promises and in so doing, we will find strength to live and love like him! Being Easter people involves living in such a way that others might see Christ in us!

Although Easter Day 2011 has passed, the message is one for every day. Easter proclaims a message for a life-time. The message of Easter moves us from despair to hope regardless of life’s circumstances. Our hope rests in what God has done on our behalf through Jesus Christ on a cross and an empty tomb. The hope required to keep going comes from knowing that God is with us and will never forsake us. Christ has shown us the way!

The Apostle Paul said it this way: “We are often troubled, but not crushed; sometimes in doubt; but never despair; there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed.” (2 Corinthians 4:-8-9) That is the promise that transforms despair into hope and enables believers to become Easter people!

A contemporary poet has expressed it this way: “Every morning is Easter morning from now on! Every day is resurrection day, the battle o’er death has been won. I need not fear from the rising to the setting sun; For I am one of the Easter people -- my new life has begun.”

Thanks be to God!