This sermon was preached for my Preaching II course and turned in as a catechetical sermon for my Confessions course. My two primary texts are the catechism and Exodus 20.
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The 10 Commandments have become so popular many have jokingly adapted the commandments to fit their context. On a quick Google search, I found the 10 Commandments of suburbs, fashion, nurses and even the commandments of team teaching and Minnesota. This state has it’s own version of the 10 commandments. I found these 10 Minnesotan Commandments posted on Professor Mary Shore’s blog. Please excuse my non-Minnesota accent.
1. Der's only one God, ya know.
2. Don't make that fish on your mantle an idol.
3. Cussing ain't Minnesota nice.
4. Go to church even when you're up nort.
5. Honor your folks.
6. Don't kill. Catch and release.
7. Der's only one Lena for every Ole. No cheatin'.
8. If it ain't your lutefisk, don't take it.
9. Don't be braggin' about how much snow ya shoveled.
10. Keep your mind off your neighbor's hotdish.
First commandment: “You shall have no other gods before me.” Luther’s Small Catechism asks, “What does this mean?” The Small Catechism answers, “We are to fear, love and trust God above all things.”
Let me offer a quick suggestion for answering the question, “do I have any gods before God?” What do I fear, love and trust most? (PAUSE). Thinking in broad strokes, some gods of today are money and possessions, food and alcohol, sex and pornography. For me, I think that I fear, love and trust my work, my bank account, my professors, my husband and family more than God. Anything that I fear, love and trust more than God is my god.
Luther explains in the Large Catechism, “If your faith and trust are right, then your god is the true one. Conversely, where your trust is false and wrong, there you do not have the true God. For these two belong together, faith and God. Anything on which your heart relies and depends, I say, that is really your God.”
It’s easy for me to say, “oh, that stupid law.” It’s the bad law that caused me to sin. If the law wasn’t there then I wouldn’t have sinned. God would realize that I have my plate full with school, work and family; I am living in the 21st century with many vocations to attend to. It’s not me – it’s that outdated oppressive law. Didn’t Christ come to fulfill the law so that we live in God’s good grace?
Before we jump ahead of ourselves let’s imagine for a moment what would happen if the law was fulfilled. For a moment, let’s envision a world where the law is kept in its entirety. The law is not only the first commandment. So that means we are to fear love and trust God above all things, but we also are keeping the other 9 commandments are as well. With the world full of the law what would or wouldn’t be present? (PAUSE) First I notice a few absences, I see the lack of war, poverty, disease, murder, rape and hunger. In addition to loosing bad aspects, we gain things too. Folks in El Salvador have clean drinking water, universal healthcare is available for the poorest African and or environment is healthy. We would be righteous and justified. We would fulfill God’s law and have no need for Christ.
The truth is, we are sinners and cannot fulfill the law. The law is not bad. In fact, the law is God’s good gift for ordering our lives. We Lutherans agree that there are two main uses of the law. First, it establishes order and justice in creation. This use of the law should be the basis to structure our life here on earth in our structures, institutions, and relationships – in our family life, our work and economics, our church organization, and in our lives as citizens. This use law is intended to establish order for those relationships and to make sure they are just.
The second use of the law is to show us our sin. If we were to examine ourselves by the 10 Commandments, we would never make it past the first commandment without being convicted, as we explored at the beginning of the sermon. The law is a mirror for self-examination – it shows us our sin so that we realize our need for Christ.
We are called to live in accordance with the law, but our salvation does not depend on this. We are justified by faith in the work of Christ, not the law. Christ came for us, sinners, the ones who do not keep God’s good just law. The ones that don’t even keep the first commandment. Christ came even before we saw our sin reflected in the 10 commandments.
Thanks be to God
3.20.2006
3.17.2006
Hi Ho, Hi Ho, to South Dakota We Go
This evening we had our last internship orientation meeting. After the session, Aaron and I went to talk to our relater about our preference to be in Sioux Falls and Colton, South Dakota for the coming year. She was super excited and told us in a quiet tone, “you know, married couples are placed first.” Translation, “you two are going to South Dakota for internship.” This excited me for a number of reasons.
1.I’ll be at Augustana College
a.Colleges have nice breaks
b.Internship will be 9 months instead of 12
2.Summer of 2007 I can do my CPE (aka Clinical Pastoral Education or chaplin)
3.We’ll be in South Dakota in a city with people we know and family an hour and a half away
Aaron and I will make the move to Presho, South Dakota this summer to take over for a pastor on sabbatical. Aaron is responsible for the 3 point perish and I’ll be taking online classes, enjoying the nearby lake and volunteering a few days in Pierre. Pluses here, again, close to family, and I’ll also be free to travel to Ohio for my Grandma’s 90th birthday in the beginning of August.
(Teresa, I’m looking forward to your call to express your excitement!)
1.I’ll be at Augustana College
a.Colleges have nice breaks
b.Internship will be 9 months instead of 12
2.Summer of 2007 I can do my CPE (aka Clinical Pastoral Education or chaplin)
3.We’ll be in South Dakota in a city with people we know and family an hour and a half away
Aaron and I will make the move to Presho, South Dakota this summer to take over for a pastor on sabbatical. Aaron is responsible for the 3 point perish and I’ll be taking online classes, enjoying the nearby lake and volunteering a few days in Pierre. Pluses here, again, close to family, and I’ll also be free to travel to Ohio for my Grandma’s 90th birthday in the beginning of August.
(Teresa, I’m looking forward to your call to express your excitement!)
3.13.2006
Navy Man Returns His Wings
This letter was posted on Truthout. It speaks for itself.
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President George W. Bush
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As a young man I was honored to serve our nation as a commissioned officer and helicopter pilot in the US Navy. Before me in WWII, my father defended the country spending two years in the Pacific aboard the USS Hornet (CV-14). We were patriots sworn "to protect and defend". Today I conclude that you have dishonored our service and the Constitution and principles of our oath. My dad was buried with full military honors so I cannot act for him. But for myself, I return enclosed the symbols of my years of service: the shoulder boards of my rank and my Naval Aviator's wings.
Until your administration, I believed it was inconceivable that the United States would ever initiate an aggressive and preemptive war against a country that posed no threat to us. Until your administration, I thought it was impossible for our nation to take hundreds of persons into custody without provable charges of any kind, and to "disappear" them into holes like Gitmo, Abu Ghraib and Bagram. Until your administration, in my wildest legal fantasy I could not imagine a US Attorney General seeking to justify torture or a President first stating his intent to veto an anti-torture law, and then adding a "signing statement" that he intends to ignore such law as he sees fit. I do not want these things done in my name.
As a citizen, a patriot, a parent and grandparent, a lawyer and law teacher I am left with such a feeling of loss and helplessness. I think of myself as a good American and I ask myself what can I do when I see the face of evil? Illegal and immoral war, torture and confinement for life without trial have never been part of our Constitutional tradition. But my vote has become meaningless because I live in a safe district drawn by your political party. My congressman is unresponsive to my concerns because his time is filled with lobbyists' largess. Protests are limited to your "free speech zones", out of sight of the parade. Even speaking openly is to risk being labeled un-American, pro-terrorist or anti-troops. And I am a disciplined pacifist, so any violent act is out of the question.
Nevertheless, to remain silent is to let you think I approve or support your actions. I do not. So, I am saddened to give up my wings and bars. They were hard won and my parents and wife were as proud as I was when I earned them over forty years ago. But I hate the torture and death you have caused more than I value their symbolism. Giving them up makes me cry for my beloved country.
Joseph W. DuRocher
__________________________________________
President George W. Bush
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, D.C. 20500
Dear Mr. President:
As a young man I was honored to serve our nation as a commissioned officer and helicopter pilot in the US Navy. Before me in WWII, my father defended the country spending two years in the Pacific aboard the USS Hornet (CV-14). We were patriots sworn "to protect and defend". Today I conclude that you have dishonored our service and the Constitution and principles of our oath. My dad was buried with full military honors so I cannot act for him. But for myself, I return enclosed the symbols of my years of service: the shoulder boards of my rank and my Naval Aviator's wings.
Until your administration, I believed it was inconceivable that the United States would ever initiate an aggressive and preemptive war against a country that posed no threat to us. Until your administration, I thought it was impossible for our nation to take hundreds of persons into custody without provable charges of any kind, and to "disappear" them into holes like Gitmo, Abu Ghraib and Bagram. Until your administration, in my wildest legal fantasy I could not imagine a US Attorney General seeking to justify torture or a President first stating his intent to veto an anti-torture law, and then adding a "signing statement" that he intends to ignore such law as he sees fit. I do not want these things done in my name.
As a citizen, a patriot, a parent and grandparent, a lawyer and law teacher I am left with such a feeling of loss and helplessness. I think of myself as a good American and I ask myself what can I do when I see the face of evil? Illegal and immoral war, torture and confinement for life without trial have never been part of our Constitutional tradition. But my vote has become meaningless because I live in a safe district drawn by your political party. My congressman is unresponsive to my concerns because his time is filled with lobbyists' largess. Protests are limited to your "free speech zones", out of sight of the parade. Even speaking openly is to risk being labeled un-American, pro-terrorist or anti-troops. And I am a disciplined pacifist, so any violent act is out of the question.
Nevertheless, to remain silent is to let you think I approve or support your actions. I do not. So, I am saddened to give up my wings and bars. They were hard won and my parents and wife were as proud as I was when I earned them over forty years ago. But I hate the torture and death you have caused more than I value their symbolism. Giving them up makes me cry for my beloved country.
Joseph W. DuRocher
3.12.2006
Let It Snow
At 3am this morning our snowcast was 1-3 inches, now it’s 6-9, WAHOO! It's hard to believe the forecast when just two days ago I was playing Frisbee and laying on a picnic table in a t-shirt and sandals. Nevertheless, I’ve been waiting for some big snow and here it comes. So far this year we haven’t been around for a big snowfall to play snowfootball in. Tonight we just might get the snow to make this winter pastime a reality – YEAH SNOW!
3.08.2006
Hoping Against Hope
My latest sermon on based on Romans 4:13-25.
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Abraham had faith. He was not one who demanded miracles, signs and wonders. He had faith in God before he trusted God. God made promises to Abraham - HUGE promises. God said, “this is my covenant with you: You will be the father of a multitude of nations.” The problem with the covenant - Abraham didn’t have any children. This would be hard to believe for a young guy in his 20’s but Abraham was 99 and without even one child when this promise of having descendants was made to him. At Abraham’s age, he should be worried about heart disease, cancer or Medicare changes. He should not be concerned with conceiving a child. Let’s not forget about his wife, Sarah, who was barren and past childbearing age too. She too should be worried about the issues of aging, maybe Botox or a face lift. Yet, these two hoped against hope for the promise to be fulfilled.
God also promises Abraham saying, “To your descendants I give this land.” Abraham placed hope in God who promised many things to him. For this promise to be fulfilled Abraham not only needed a child but also land. Abraham hoped against hope that these things would come true.
How often do I hope against hope? Many times it is hard to trust promises. We are living in an age where promises are frequently broken and where hope can be hard to come by. What do we place our hope in? Are we hoping for an unexpected scholarship to pay the bills, hoping for a sunny warm day when we can set homework aside for a few hours and relax? Are we hoping for a miracle drug to cure a loved one? I must admit I am hoping against hope for all of these things.
For years my cousin Zack’s health problems were misdiagnosed. Finally, at age 5 his condition was correctly identified as Autism. His parents, my aunt and uncle did not know what to think. They had no clue what Autism was or what this diagnosis meant. Their immediate thought was that of hope. The hope that he would get better one day, somehow. The thought process was we’ll get him the right therapy and use medication if we must, but he’ll get better.
As he got older, we realized the implications of Zack’s condition. He understands and responds to words, but he cannot use these words for his own communication. He cannot verbally tell others he wants a cheeseburger instead of chocolate pudding or that he wants to swim instead of swing. He doesn’t respond to physical contact like you and I do. Zack is more content ripping a telephone book into strips than being held or cuddled.
Because of the late diagnosis, Zack missed what is commonly known as the ‘learning window’. However, the doctors say that he can learn a skill for the workplace. So now he is learning how to fold sheets, towels and washcloths so that he can one day work at a hotel in housekeeping.
Zack’s dad has tried every treatment he can find, hoping against hope that something will work. Hoping that one-day Zack will begin to speak and be nurtured by the love and affection he receives. My uncle frequently looks through multiple search engines for the latest information and medical breakthroughs.
I remember learning about one of these breakthroughs while I was in college. A drug that would normally be used for another illness was prescribed for an autistic child. While normally not intended for treating autism, this drug worked a miracle for the autistic boy. Within days of taking the medication, the 10 year old boy began to speak and all the symptoms of autism were gone. The wall of silence crumbled and blank stares were shattered with smiles. My uncle found this drug available through an Internet pharmacy operating in England. He bought drug and gave it to Zack hoping against hope that the same results would occur.
Unlike Zack’s experience, Abraham had promises to hope in. Abraham had a promise from God. From a world as Abraham knew it, the deck was stacked against God’s promises. Abraham had promises from God. The promises that God makes, God keeps.
My families hope against hope comes in a different form for Zack. I can’t hope in a promise of Zack being healed from autism. God has made no such promise. The drugs from England provided some positive behavioral modification, but Zack still lives with autism.
The hope in the promise of healing from the English drugs is not the same hope in a promises made by God.
We talk about promises, but what promises does God make to you and me and Zack?
We are promised that God will be with us in all circumstances, near to us, dear to us, at our side. As God was with Abraham, so God continues with us in Christ. There is nothing we have done or could do to deserve this gift.
We are promised that in Christ we shall live forever with Christ, that we shall never die, that Christ conquered death and that we shall live eternally with God. We did nothing to earn or deserve eternal life with God.
Like us, Abraham didn’t earn what was promised, but thanks be to God that the fulfillment of the promise didn’t depend on the works of Abraham. We remember and celebrate the promise given to Abraham and Sarah still because of the ever faithfulness of God’s word. And it is this word, this promise from God, in which we hope against hope.
__________________________________
Abraham had faith. He was not one who demanded miracles, signs and wonders. He had faith in God before he trusted God. God made promises to Abraham - HUGE promises. God said, “this is my covenant with you: You will be the father of a multitude of nations.” The problem with the covenant - Abraham didn’t have any children. This would be hard to believe for a young guy in his 20’s but Abraham was 99 and without even one child when this promise of having descendants was made to him. At Abraham’s age, he should be worried about heart disease, cancer or Medicare changes. He should not be concerned with conceiving a child. Let’s not forget about his wife, Sarah, who was barren and past childbearing age too. She too should be worried about the issues of aging, maybe Botox or a face lift. Yet, these two hoped against hope for the promise to be fulfilled.
God also promises Abraham saying, “To your descendants I give this land.” Abraham placed hope in God who promised many things to him. For this promise to be fulfilled Abraham not only needed a child but also land. Abraham hoped against hope that these things would come true.
How often do I hope against hope? Many times it is hard to trust promises. We are living in an age where promises are frequently broken and where hope can be hard to come by. What do we place our hope in? Are we hoping for an unexpected scholarship to pay the bills, hoping for a sunny warm day when we can set homework aside for a few hours and relax? Are we hoping for a miracle drug to cure a loved one? I must admit I am hoping against hope for all of these things.
For years my cousin Zack’s health problems were misdiagnosed. Finally, at age 5 his condition was correctly identified as Autism. His parents, my aunt and uncle did not know what to think. They had no clue what Autism was or what this diagnosis meant. Their immediate thought was that of hope. The hope that he would get better one day, somehow. The thought process was we’ll get him the right therapy and use medication if we must, but he’ll get better.
As he got older, we realized the implications of Zack’s condition. He understands and responds to words, but he cannot use these words for his own communication. He cannot verbally tell others he wants a cheeseburger instead of chocolate pudding or that he wants to swim instead of swing. He doesn’t respond to physical contact like you and I do. Zack is more content ripping a telephone book into strips than being held or cuddled.
Because of the late diagnosis, Zack missed what is commonly known as the ‘learning window’. However, the doctors say that he can learn a skill for the workplace. So now he is learning how to fold sheets, towels and washcloths so that he can one day work at a hotel in housekeeping.
Zack’s dad has tried every treatment he can find, hoping against hope that something will work. Hoping that one-day Zack will begin to speak and be nurtured by the love and affection he receives. My uncle frequently looks through multiple search engines for the latest information and medical breakthroughs.
I remember learning about one of these breakthroughs while I was in college. A drug that would normally be used for another illness was prescribed for an autistic child. While normally not intended for treating autism, this drug worked a miracle for the autistic boy. Within days of taking the medication, the 10 year old boy began to speak and all the symptoms of autism were gone. The wall of silence crumbled and blank stares were shattered with smiles. My uncle found this drug available through an Internet pharmacy operating in England. He bought drug and gave it to Zack hoping against hope that the same results would occur.
Unlike Zack’s experience, Abraham had promises to hope in. Abraham had a promise from God. From a world as Abraham knew it, the deck was stacked against God’s promises. Abraham had promises from God. The promises that God makes, God keeps.
My families hope against hope comes in a different form for Zack. I can’t hope in a promise of Zack being healed from autism. God has made no such promise. The drugs from England provided some positive behavioral modification, but Zack still lives with autism.
The hope in the promise of healing from the English drugs is not the same hope in a promises made by God.
We talk about promises, but what promises does God make to you and me and Zack?
We are promised that God will be with us in all circumstances, near to us, dear to us, at our side. As God was with Abraham, so God continues with us in Christ. There is nothing we have done or could do to deserve this gift.
We are promised that in Christ we shall live forever with Christ, that we shall never die, that Christ conquered death and that we shall live eternally with God. We did nothing to earn or deserve eternal life with God.
Like us, Abraham didn’t earn what was promised, but thanks be to God that the fulfillment of the promise didn’t depend on the works of Abraham. We remember and celebrate the promise given to Abraham and Sarah still because of the ever faithfulness of God’s word. And it is this word, this promise from God, in which we hope against hope.
3.06.2006
Bathroom Bugs
One night, I entered the bathroom. My intentions were to brush my teeth when - lo and behold - a ladybug had entered the cabinet behind our mirror. Yes, a ladybug was in the bathroom snuggled in beside my toothpaste. Instead of killing it myself, I quickly remembered why I married Aaron. He has a gift for killing ladybugs and their cousins.
Story two – one year earlier: One early morning (think 4am) we were at a Shalom Hill Farm, a retreat center in rural Minnesota. The place where we were staying had an Asian Beetle infestation. So, Aaron and I were fast asleep when Aaron jumped out of bed and began shaking his head and making scary noises. Somehow, the light came on and he managed to say, “there’s an Asian beetle in my ear!” It took me a good minute or two to wake up enough to laugh, then another 3 minutes to settle down enough to help. We spent the next 20 minutes sticking things (pen caps, paper clips and finally tweezers) in his ear trying to get it out. That morning he stomped the beetle so many times you’ve thought he was trying to stomp it to the bedrock below.
Henceforth he shall be known as Aaron the Lady Bug/Asian Beetle Slayer.
Not that I don’t value Aaron’s work, but to see a real killer in action check out what Wesley killed in his bathroom at
Wesley's Bathroom Kill.
2.28.2006
God, what?
If anyone takes the word of Christ seriously, they are not believable. It's good that my salvation doesn't depend on my belief or lack there of. Every so often, I begin to think about what I’m really saying and believing.
I regularly confess the Apostles Creed.
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again,
He ascended into heaven.
He is seated at the right hand of the Father
and He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Do I really believe? Was there really a Christ that was both fully divine and fully human? Did this Christ take away my sin at His expense? There’s life after my flesh dies and my body will be resurrected?
This is impossible. I am only a lowly human, why would any god care about me? Can God possibly know what I’ve done and not done and still cleanse my sins? Why does God take my sins? What does God get out of this? The nature of God is puzzling. It just doesn’t make sense.
God has power, and for me, power corrupts me. How is God still good? How am I subject to sin but God isn’t. Why am I trying to bring God down to my level?
It is uncomfortable to know that I have nothing to do, say or think to secure my salvation. The Holy Spirit has already claimed me, through nothing I could’ve done or not done. I want God to be understandable in human terms, here and now. For now, I wait, watch and listen as Christ is led to Golgotha.
I regularly confess the Apostles Creed.
I believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth.
I believe in Jesus Christ, God's only Son, our Lord.
He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit
and born of the Virgin Mary.
He suffered under Pontius Pilate,
was crucified, died, and was buried.
He descended into hell.
On the third day he rose again,
He ascended into heaven.
He is seated at the right hand of the Father
and He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
I believe in the Holy Spirit,
the holy catholic Church,
the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins,
the resurrection of the body,
and the life everlasting.
Do I really believe? Was there really a Christ that was both fully divine and fully human? Did this Christ take away my sin at His expense? There’s life after my flesh dies and my body will be resurrected?
This is impossible. I am only a lowly human, why would any god care about me? Can God possibly know what I’ve done and not done and still cleanse my sins? Why does God take my sins? What does God get out of this? The nature of God is puzzling. It just doesn’t make sense.
God has power, and for me, power corrupts me. How is God still good? How am I subject to sin but God isn’t. Why am I trying to bring God down to my level?
It is uncomfortable to know that I have nothing to do, say or think to secure my salvation. The Holy Spirit has already claimed me, through nothing I could’ve done or not done. I want God to be understandable in human terms, here and now. For now, I wait, watch and listen as Christ is led to Golgotha.
2.27.2006
The Wall
Today is sound off day. After a weekend with friends, I’m catching up on the news and responding.
My latest scream goes out to the US – Mexican Wall. This is absurd. The wall will not change the number of undocumented immigrants entering the US. There will always be ways to get into the US without documents.
What about labor? The US could not function without it’s undocumented immigrants.
The thought that people need papers to travel to areas outside of a certain border is absurd. Borders are artificial lines humans have been constructed to make the preschool saying, “you’re not my friend” law. I don’t like you, you can’t come where I am. We call it national security. Doesn't this make us more unsecure? We are more restricted than ants, owls, lizards and lions. Is anyone else tired of living in the cage of borders?
Ending Abortion in South Dakota
According to the Minnesota Daily, “both houses of South Dakota’s legislature passed a bill banning almost all abortions, with the only exception being to save the mother’s life. Now the bill is waiting for the signature of abortion opponent Gov. Mike Rounds, who says he is inclined to sign it.”
Another part of the law states, “if a woman who is raped becomes pregnant, the rapist would have the same rights to the child as the mother,” (CNN).
All of this makes me scream, STOP! Do lawmakers know what they’re doing? The state only has one abortion clinic, which performs an average of 800 abortions a year - less than 3 a day. I can’t imagine that this would become the law of the land. I also can’t imagine how the bill got this far. I would expect this craziness from Bible Belt of West Virginia, not an awesome state like South Dakota.
Another part of the law states, “if a woman who is raped becomes pregnant, the rapist would have the same rights to the child as the mother,” (CNN).
All of this makes me scream, STOP! Do lawmakers know what they’re doing? The state only has one abortion clinic, which performs an average of 800 abortions a year - less than 3 a day. I can’t imagine that this would become the law of the land. I also can’t imagine how the bill got this far. I would expect this craziness from Bible Belt of West Virginia, not an awesome state like South Dakota.
2.26.2006
Home Moves to Minnesota
This weekend Shannon came from Ohio, Mike came from South Dakota and Rene came from Nebraska. Thus, Lori, Aaron and I each had a taste of our home states come to Minnesota. We had a blast. Friday night Aaron and I hosted our first American Idol party. American Idol is a Play Station 2 game with a dance pad, think Dance Dance Revolution. Check out the photos!
On Thursday, I began to get really excited about Shannon’s visit, and I took a trip down memory lane. Shannon and I have been ‘best friends’ for almost 10 years. Since I moved away from Ohio, she’s traveled at least two times a year to visit me, that’s more than everyone else combined! Even with 750 miles between us, nothing has really changed. I love my Shannon!
On Thursday, I began to get really excited about Shannon’s visit, and I took a trip down memory lane. Shannon and I have been ‘best friends’ for almost 10 years. Since I moved away from Ohio, she’s traveled at least two times a year to visit me, that’s more than everyone else combined! Even with 750 miles between us, nothing has really changed. I love my Shannon!
Transfiguration
This semester I'm taking a preaching course. Below is the sermon I preached this week on Mark 9:2-9.
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“This is my Son, the beloved ,listen to him!”
“This is my Son, the beloved ,listen to him!”
“This is my Son, the beloved ,listen to him!”
Many voices say, ‘listen to me.’ Just this morning I have listened to numerous voices. I woke up to the voice of my husband which was quickly followed by NPR’s weather forecaster, field reporters, national commentators, and audio clips of politicians. I must not omit your voices, including yours Dr. Rogness’ which I obviously listened and responded to, after all, I am standing before you.
These voices have all said “listen to me” within the two hours I’ve been awake. I expect that throughout the rest of my day I will also hear voices of Hollywood celebrities, Olympians, musicians, political commentators, the children I nanny, other classmates and professors and even the voice of my mother.
The critical concern becomes, why listen? What is each voice trying to tell me? Why are they telling me this? What are they trying to get me to do? What are the benefits of listening? Don’t get me wrong, these voices are not the epitome of evil and to be avoided at all cost. These voices have their place. These voices are important. Yet, in the midst of these voices there is a voice from a cloud, “This is my Son, the beloved, listen to him!”
It is appropriate to realize this is not the first time the words “this is my Son, the beloved” are spoken in Mark’s gospel. In the first chapter of Mark, after Jesus was baptized in the Jordan, a voice came from heaven saying, “you are my son, the beloved, with you I am well pleased.” Here the announcement is addressing Jesus. This is in contrast to the transfiguration proclamation addressing Peter, James and John. In both cases, Jesus hears a voice from above. Jesus has been claimed “This is my Son, the beloved, listen to him!”
In the very sentence that claims Jesus we are given a command – listen to him. The truth is we don’t listen. We don’t even want to listen to him. We shout over Jesus’ words. We listen to the voices in and of this world.
In the chapter before the transfiguration Jesus “began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him." A crucified messiah is too much for Peter and it’s too much for us. We don’t want Jesus to be crucified either. If he’s crucified and is raised he’s not just a wise teacher and his words are not mere abstract principles or abstract things. They’re the words of God for us. They’re the words of God speaking to us.
And yet, how well do we listen? The skeptic in me asks, when do I ever listen to God? My hope is that I was listening to God’s call when I came to seminary, when I sat with the friend who struggled with an unplanned/unwanted pregnancy and when I teach Sunday school. Yet, I constantly want things my way. I do not want to surrender myself. I want to be my own god.
Unlike myself, the disciples were with Christ. We have seen how well the disciples listen to Jesus and they were with Jesus.
Our turning point comes through faith. No matter what we or the disciples do, Jesus’ saving work does not change. As Jesus is claimed through water and the word, we too are claimed in the water and word of our baptism. This happens despite even with bad listening skills.
The disciples did not listen, yet Christ was crucified, died and was buried and on the third day he rose again. Luther’s explanation of the second article of the Apostles Creed explains Christ’s salvific work.
"He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned human being. He has purchased and freed me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with gold or silver but with his, holy, precious blood and with his innocent suffering and death. He has done all this in order that I may belong to him, live under him in his kingdom, and serve him in eternal righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as he is risen from the dead and lives and rules eternally."
It is fitting that we spend this, the last Thursday before Lent recalling the voice from the cloud, “this is my son, the beloved, listen to him!”
_____________________________________________________
“This is my Son, the beloved ,listen to him!”
“This is my Son, the beloved ,listen to him!”
“This is my Son, the beloved ,listen to him!”
Many voices say, ‘listen to me.’ Just this morning I have listened to numerous voices. I woke up to the voice of my husband which was quickly followed by NPR’s weather forecaster, field reporters, national commentators, and audio clips of politicians. I must not omit your voices, including yours Dr. Rogness’ which I obviously listened and responded to, after all, I am standing before you.
These voices have all said “listen to me” within the two hours I’ve been awake. I expect that throughout the rest of my day I will also hear voices of Hollywood celebrities, Olympians, musicians, political commentators, the children I nanny, other classmates and professors and even the voice of my mother.
The critical concern becomes, why listen? What is each voice trying to tell me? Why are they telling me this? What are they trying to get me to do? What are the benefits of listening? Don’t get me wrong, these voices are not the epitome of evil and to be avoided at all cost. These voices have their place. These voices are important. Yet, in the midst of these voices there is a voice from a cloud, “This is my Son, the beloved, listen to him!”
It is appropriate to realize this is not the first time the words “this is my Son, the beloved” are spoken in Mark’s gospel. In the first chapter of Mark, after Jesus was baptized in the Jordan, a voice came from heaven saying, “you are my son, the beloved, with you I am well pleased.” Here the announcement is addressing Jesus. This is in contrast to the transfiguration proclamation addressing Peter, James and John. In both cases, Jesus hears a voice from above. Jesus has been claimed “This is my Son, the beloved, listen to him!”
In the very sentence that claims Jesus we are given a command – listen to him. The truth is we don’t listen. We don’t even want to listen to him. We shout over Jesus’ words. We listen to the voices in and of this world.
In the chapter before the transfiguration Jesus “began to teach them that the Son of Man must undergo great suffering, and be rejected by the elders, the chief priests, and the scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. He said all this quite openly. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him." A crucified messiah is too much for Peter and it’s too much for us. We don’t want Jesus to be crucified either. If he’s crucified and is raised he’s not just a wise teacher and his words are not mere abstract principles or abstract things. They’re the words of God for us. They’re the words of God speaking to us.
And yet, how well do we listen? The skeptic in me asks, when do I ever listen to God? My hope is that I was listening to God’s call when I came to seminary, when I sat with the friend who struggled with an unplanned/unwanted pregnancy and when I teach Sunday school. Yet, I constantly want things my way. I do not want to surrender myself. I want to be my own god.
Unlike myself, the disciples were with Christ. We have seen how well the disciples listen to Jesus and they were with Jesus.
Our turning point comes through faith. No matter what we or the disciples do, Jesus’ saving work does not change. As Jesus is claimed through water and the word, we too are claimed in the water and word of our baptism. This happens despite even with bad listening skills.
The disciples did not listen, yet Christ was crucified, died and was buried and on the third day he rose again. Luther’s explanation of the second article of the Apostles Creed explains Christ’s salvific work.
"He has redeemed me, a lost and condemned human being. He has purchased and freed me from all sins, from death, and from the power of the devil, not with gold or silver but with his, holy, precious blood and with his innocent suffering and death. He has done all this in order that I may belong to him, live under him in his kingdom, and serve him in eternal righteousness, innocence, and blessedness, just as he is risen from the dead and lives and rules eternally."
It is fitting that we spend this, the last Thursday before Lent recalling the voice from the cloud, “this is my son, the beloved, listen to him!”
2.20.2006
Wesley in Thailand
In January, 2005, Wesley and I met for one last hug in Port Columbus. I was headed for Florida, and he was heading to Thailand for 2 years to join Peace Corps. Wes and I met our freshman year of high school. As long as I can remember, Wes has had a dream of becoming a missionary. While he isn’t directly linked with a large church body, but he is giving 2 years of his life for others. In response to many requests for photos and info of his time, Wes began a blog of his experience. He has done a fabulous job telling his story with words and photos of this far away place. If nothing else, check out the photos. Check him out@ Wesley in Thailand
2.17.2006
More Nestingen
Through a blog search I found some more info about Nestingen. Check out a quote from Nestingen's brother.
http://revsteve1967.blogspot.com/2006/02/nestingen-retirement.html
http://revsteve1967.blogspot.com/2006/02/nestingen-retirement.html
Could it be...
Today has been filled with questions and rumors. Aaron and I had an interview at 8am and the pastor began by asking us about Nestingen. After listening to a recording of the student question session, Aaron arrived at a new theory about the resignation, I mean retirement, but even Lull can't keep these two straight. Maybe Nestingen had a problem with the newly established administration, namely Bliese and Lose, as well as the new direction of Luther. So, they went out to Oregan to try to find common ground. Lori observed that Lose seemed to hold back while Lull was giving the students what she knew. Lose would be at the center, know it all and be on of the ones that the personal conflict existed between. Hmm, theories abound. Tonight we're going out with a rather large group of fellow theorist students. Well, for this week, commandment 8 is smashed to pieces.
2.16.2006
Cleaning House
Today I received this email from Luther Seminary President Rick Bliese.
_____________________________________
Students,
This announcement concerns Jim Nestingen and his retirement from Luther Seminary. If you would like the opportunity to find out more about this situation and ask questions about Professor Nestingen’s retirement, we will be holding two open sessions for students on Friday morning (tomorrow) from 8 to 9 AM (OCC Board Room) and Tuesday morning, February 21st from 8 to 9 AM (OCC Board Room). I hope that you will take the time and join the session.
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Pax,
Rick Bliese
__________________________________________________
On January 31, 2006, Dr. James Arne Nestingen announced his intention to retire as of January 31, 2006. Professor Nestingen offered his retirement as part of an effort to resolve some claimed interpersonal difficulties within the faculty. Luther Seminary has asked Professor Nestingen to continue to teach on a limited basis and direct graduate students as Professor Emeritus of Church History and he has agreed. Both Luther Seminary and Professor Nestingen are pleased to have arrived at a solution that enables the Seminary to take advantage of his skills as a theologian and gifts as a teacher.
In accepting Professor Nestingen’s decision to retire, while asking him to continue teaching, Luther Seminary emphasized that Professor Nestingen’s retirement is not due to any allegations of heresy or misconduct, sexual or otherwise. In addition, the Seminary did not ask Professor to retire or resign.
Rick Bliese
President
Luther Seminary
Jim Nestingen
Professor Emeritus of Church History
Luther Seminary
__________________________________________________
What’s up with the faculty? In January, Kelly Fryer left after not being able to comply with the sexual policies of the ELCA. Before classes even began this semester, Aaron and I heard rumors that Nestingen had been ask to leave Luther. It was hard to let Fryer leave, but it was her decision. Nestingen’s retirement, on the other hand, seems like a cleaning move by Bliese and the board. Nestingen didn't even write to the students, Bliese did. Why did he leave without the fanfare and praise he deserves right after rumors began? Fishy!
It’s no secret that Luther’s faculty is deeply divided. Many students would buy tickets to sit silently in the corner to watch the faculty go at each other. We know what the divide is. We know who is in which camp. We hear rumors and murmurs of faculty meetings, and faculty often walk into class on Thursday mornings with a smile to be with students and away from some of their colleagues. This news shocks those outside of Luther. Luther is a seminary after all and we should all be Minnesota nice and love each each other as God loves us. The truth is the discussions here are deep. We’re talking about God. We are talking about Martin Luther. How can debates and theological understand not lead to divisions? For now, the Pharisees are still at it. I have a feeling they always will be.
_____________________________________
Students,
This announcement concerns Jim Nestingen and his retirement from Luther Seminary. If you would like the opportunity to find out more about this situation and ask questions about Professor Nestingen’s retirement, we will be holding two open sessions for students on Friday morning (tomorrow) from 8 to 9 AM (OCC Board Room) and Tuesday morning, February 21st from 8 to 9 AM (OCC Board Room). I hope that you will take the time and join the session.
Thank you for your prayers and support.
Pax,
Rick Bliese
__________________________________________________
On January 31, 2006, Dr. James Arne Nestingen announced his intention to retire as of January 31, 2006. Professor Nestingen offered his retirement as part of an effort to resolve some claimed interpersonal difficulties within the faculty. Luther Seminary has asked Professor Nestingen to continue to teach on a limited basis and direct graduate students as Professor Emeritus of Church History and he has agreed. Both Luther Seminary and Professor Nestingen are pleased to have arrived at a solution that enables the Seminary to take advantage of his skills as a theologian and gifts as a teacher.
In accepting Professor Nestingen’s decision to retire, while asking him to continue teaching, Luther Seminary emphasized that Professor Nestingen’s retirement is not due to any allegations of heresy or misconduct, sexual or otherwise. In addition, the Seminary did not ask Professor to retire or resign.
Rick Bliese
President
Luther Seminary
Jim Nestingen
Professor Emeritus of Church History
Luther Seminary
__________________________________________________
What’s up with the faculty? In January, Kelly Fryer left after not being able to comply with the sexual policies of the ELCA. Before classes even began this semester, Aaron and I heard rumors that Nestingen had been ask to leave Luther. It was hard to let Fryer leave, but it was her decision. Nestingen’s retirement, on the other hand, seems like a cleaning move by Bliese and the board. Nestingen didn't even write to the students, Bliese did. Why did he leave without the fanfare and praise he deserves right after rumors began? Fishy!
It’s no secret that Luther’s faculty is deeply divided. Many students would buy tickets to sit silently in the corner to watch the faculty go at each other. We know what the divide is. We know who is in which camp. We hear rumors and murmurs of faculty meetings, and faculty often walk into class on Thursday mornings with a smile to be with students and away from some of their colleagues. This news shocks those outside of Luther. Luther is a seminary after all and we should all be Minnesota nice and love each each other as God loves us. The truth is the discussions here are deep. We’re talking about God. We are talking about Martin Luther. How can debates and theological understand not lead to divisions? For now, the Pharisees are still at it. I have a feeling they always will be.
2.08.2006
"To love another person is to see the face of God!"
Tonight Lori, Aaron and I are going to see the last touring performance of Les Miserables. For once I knew how to answer when Mom popped the question, "what do you want for your birthday?" We have awesome seats (no balcony tonight!) thanks to Mom! This is the musical I have always wanted to see. I know every word to the score. I woke up in a panic this morning. The tickets are in the bag with the mail, but where's the bag with the mail? So, at 7a I was running through the apartment looking for the tickets instead of getting ready for my 8a Confessions course. I am happy to report all is well, the tickets are on the kitchen table and at 8p tonight we'll begin a night I've spent years dreaming of.
2.05.2006
Back in MN
After 4 weeks, Aaron and I have landed safely in St. Paul. Over the last two months, we’ve traveled to South Dakota, Nebraska, Illinois, Wisconsin and Ohio. We’ve enjoyed being away and seeing many faces and places, but being home is good too. Some of our travels are documented on my pics page. More later, off to get ready for the super bowl!
1.29.2006
This I Believe
Today my friend, 'Big Poppa' sent me a forward to end all forwards. I endorse this link and think everyone should forward it to everyone in their address book. Click on the link below and enjoy!
URGENT: End Forwards Now!
URGENT: End Forwards Now!
1.17.2006
Chicago
Aaron and I are on week two of our S.C.U.P.E. (Seminary Consortium for Urban Pastoral Education) course. We are part of a group of 23 seminarians traveling through Chicago to hear from community visionaries and leaders. Our Professor is internationally known and has been called the best African American preacher in the U.S. Her network has allowed us to hear from THE leaders in the city. We’ve traveled to infamous areas Cabrini Green, Robert Taylor Homes, Cicero, South Chicago and many other places. We’re learning about the projects and issues that these leaders now face as gangs fight for new turf after being displaced. We're hearing the problems associated with gentrification and how racism, economic injustice and violence are perpetuated by the powers and principalities.
By day we learn and by night we explore Chicago’s nightlife. Last night we were at the Green Mill. “One of famous gangster Al Capone's former speakeasies from the Prohibition-era roaring '20s (check out his photo on the baby grand behind the bar); it was also a fav of Charlie Chaplin and Gloria Swanson. The oldest jazz club in the US (and presumably the world), under Dave Jemilo's care, it remains one of the city's liveliest jazz venues and still serves a mean Manhattan and martini.” Tonight it’s off to Rush Street for my fav Chicago piano bar/ steak house, Gibson's.
By day we learn and by night we explore Chicago’s nightlife. Last night we were at the Green Mill. “One of famous gangster Al Capone's former speakeasies from the Prohibition-era roaring '20s (check out his photo on the baby grand behind the bar); it was also a fav of Charlie Chaplin and Gloria Swanson. The oldest jazz club in the US (and presumably the world), under Dave Jemilo's care, it remains one of the city's liveliest jazz venues and still serves a mean Manhattan and martini.” Tonight it’s off to Rush Street for my fav Chicago piano bar/ steak house, Gibson's.
1.04.2006
West Virginia Miners Trapped in Mine
Photo: The road leading from the coal company owned homes to the coal mine in Beards Fork, WV.
Today the nation learned of 12 miners killed in a West Virginia. Exacerbating this horrendous situation was a three-hour period of joy when the 12 were reported to be alive.
While I have never lived through the horror of a mine collapse, the news hits close. In my family, men had a choice between working in the coalmines and joining the military. I am the granddaughter, great niece and cousin of many miners. Eubert, my great uncle was killed in the mines. Mom’s best friend growing up, Sheila, lost her husband in the mine. Tracy, another great uncle, died of black lung. Grandpa still waits for his black lung settlement.
A few years ago, I heard the stories of mine collapses in Beards Fork, WV. My grandma told of the horror of waiting for ‘Daddy’ to come home after the news of a collapse. During the 2004 collapse in Russia, I was visiting my grandpa. He was glued to the cable news channels and would not sleep while their fate was known. Miners know danger. They are also a tight bunch who cling to each other for survival.
With this collapse, I feel a mix of sadness and rage. I rage against Ben Hatfield, the company president, for letting the families celebrate a lie that their men were alive. Mostly, I grieve for the families that will never be the same. I grieve for all families, including my own, who have lost loved ones for coal.
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