Six Days and Sunday: A Labor Day Sermon

Scriptures:  Epistle:  I Corin.3:9-14; 58:18;  Gospel: John 13:12-15; 34-35

A pastor once invited some of his members from various professions to meet with him to dialog about their work and the role of faith.  The group included an office worker, a corporate manager, a salesperson, a lawyer, a teacher, and several in public service.  After a brief sharing of what each did for a living, he asked them this question: “How does your faith impact what you do in your work?” That’s a profound and insightful question.  Here’s another way to ask the question: “What does what we do on Sunday have to do with the other six days of the week?”  I think that is a good question for us to consider on this Labor Day Weekend.

This federal holiday that celebrates the economic and social contributions of workers across our nation was first observed in 1894. Labor Day is always the first Monday of September and for most of us, provides an opportunity for a three-day weekend. It is generally viewed as the end of summer vacations and more leisurely activities. But Labor Day is more than observing a holiday. It also causes us to focus on the word labor and what it means for our lives. I invite you to consider the meaning of labor as addressed in scriptures, and its implications for Christian living.

The word labor appears numerous times in scriptures. The first is from Exodus in the Old Testament: "Six days you shall labor, but on the seventh day you shall rest.”  These words are among the most familiar relating to labor because they are in the Ten Commandments. The term “hard labor” is found numerous times in the books of the Old Testament and relate to what the Israelites endured while in captivity.  The Psalmist wrote: “Unless the Lord builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” (Ps.127)

But the word labor takes on new meaning in the New Testament. In John’s gospel, we find these words spoken by Jesus to his disciples: “I sent you to reap what you have not worked for. Others have done the hard work, and you have reaped the benefits of their labor.” (4:38 NIV)

In the New Testament, labor refers to not only tasks performed by slaves out of necessity for wages, but more importantly as the work of faith and acts of love.  During the final week of his ministry, Jesus y taking on the role of servant and washing his disciples feet prior to the celebrating the Passover Meal offered his disciples an example of servanthood.  In so doing he offered them an example of servant love in action in addressing the needs of others.  Then he gave them a new commandment that continues to challenge us who seek to be his disciples today:  “Love one another as I have loved you.  By this all will know that you are my disciples.” 

The Apostle Paul wrote these words to the Church at Thessalonica, “We continually remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”   Such words speak of faithfulness to the mandates of discipleship.

Paul is known as the chief missionary and theologian of the newly formed faith that centered in the life, teachings and resurrection of Jesus Christ.  In today’s epistle reading, he addresses the Christians in the community of faith in Corinth. The city of Corinth was one of moral decay.  Its people were greatly influenced by many pagan philosophies and practices.  Many lived by the popular concept of that day, “eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow you may die.” The quality of life was an all-time low. Those first century Christians had so much to learn about the newly formed faith in Christ as taught by Paul, and there were many voices of that day offering advice concerning religious practices and rituals.  There was dissention and quarrelling among believes in the Corinth church because of the differences sand divided loyalties.  Some believers were convinced that the end of time was near and they simply quit work and awaited the second coming. Others wanted to know more about God's requirements and expectations of them as followers of Jesus, and sought to be obedient to the mandates of faith.  And a few recognized that there was a connection between faith and works. It was sometime later that James wrote in his letter “faith without works is dead.”  He wanted to make a strong statement that what one believes should impact how one lives.

But Paul offers even a deeper insight for us on the meaning of labor and the implications for Christian living in his writings to the Church in Corinth: “The man who plants and the man who waters have one purpose, and each will be rewarded according to his own labor. (1Corin. 3:8 NIV)  He also wrote these words of challenge to them:  “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." (1Corin. 15:58 NIV)

From the beginning of Christianity, Christ's followers sought to understand the implications of their faith and beliefs faith upon daily life. Christianity was not just a ritual to be followed. Being Christian involved more than obedience to certain religious practices and faithful attendance at worship. Paul reminded them that to follow Christ involved a commitment to a lifestyle of sacrificial love that covered all aspects of life, their work, or leisure, every day of the week. 

Christ through his life and teachings offered a new interpretation to life, faith and work.  And those who responded to his message were transformed.  Some, like Matthew, the tax collector, even changed their occupations because of the requirements of faithful disciple-ship.  Others changed their practices within their occupations because Christ’s way led to practice a morality based on honesty, love and compassion for others.  Unfortunately, in many cases today, religion is practiced only on Sunday morning, if then.  But our religion, the core of our faith and beliefs, should inspire and drive us, inform and form who we are and all that we do. Our faith should be present in the values we affirm in our politics, in the activities we enter into in our spare time, in the ways we spend our money, and, in all that we do. The challenge of faithful living is to ask: “Can others see Christ at work in us?”

The challenges we face today are many. We are living in a day in which work practices and the very ethical fiber of our society are being challenged.  Young people are often confused because adults have failed to project stable moral and ethical standards. One of the greatest challenges facing the Christian church today is to make faith relevant in the work place. If Christianity is to survive, it will not depend on what we do on Sunday in church, but on what we do during the week outside the church. When what we profess in our creeds finds expression in our deeds, more people will want what the Christian faith and church have to offer. 

Have you heard about Change the World RVA?  Let me tell you a little about it, for it is a story about labors of love. It’s an organization I’m working with that began a little more than a year ago as a part of Bon Air UMC’s mission ministry. Our mission is “to provide unconditional nurture, support and hope to students in unstable housing situations through transforming relationships, inspiring positive personal and societal change.” The focus is on helping homeless high school students in Richmond to become more self-sufficient. Their needs are many -- food, clothing, shelter, school supplies, and transportation. The needs are over-whelming and ever-expanding.  Even so, a small group of Christians are respond-ing to make a difference in the lives of these students by volunteering as mentors, tutors, drivers, and contributing financially.  Almost a hundred persons from several partner churches are now engaged in this unique ministry to make life better for these students. Through Christ-like acts of loving kindness and caring relationships, needs are being met and lives transformed, not only among the students helped, but in the lives of those who offer themselves through labors of love.  

George McLeod, a British clergyman and founder of industrial chaplaincy in England, has written these words:  “I simply argue that the cross should be raised at the center of the market place as well as on the steeple of the church. I am recovering the claim that Jesus was not crucified in a cathedral between two candles, but on a cross between two thieves; on the town's garbage heap; at a crossroad so cosmopolitan that they had to write his title  in Hebrew and Latin and Greek… at the kind of place where cynics talk smut, and thieves curse, and soldiers gamble.  Because that is where he died.  And that is what he died for. And that is what he died about.  That is where [the] church ought to be and what [the] church ought to be about."

Here we are, gathered on a Sunday morning, joined together in a community of faith to share in Holy Communion. When our service of worship is over, we will go our separate ways to live life guided by what we profess and believe.  The Apostle Paul offers us a departing challenge: “Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corin. 15:58)  Indeed, when all has been said and done, it is the labor performed through Christ-like acts of love and kindness towards others that will last and live on forever.  

So I leave you with the question that I raised at the beginning of my message: “What does what we do on Sunday have to do with the other six days of the week?”  It’s up to you to answer that question as you leave this place.  May God help you find an answer.  Amen.  

 

 

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!