Friday, March 6, 2009

Daily Devotionals

If you are interested in some good stuff for your daily spiritual practice, Sojourners Magazine has a daily Verse and Voice (http://blog.sojo.net/category/verse-and-voice/) that includes a verse of scripture and a voice of social justice.

The other fabulous resource is our United Church of Christ with more material than you might know what to do with - blogs, online interactive prayer chapel, studies on how to read the Bible, etc and an excellent daily devotional delivered into your email every morning. Check out i.ucc.org
David

Thursday, March 5, 2009

The Last Week

Lent has begun and with it our two book studies. I just finished reading the first chapter of Borg and Crossan's The Last Week. Everything I read by these guys just excites me. But the visual image of the humble entry of Jesus into Jerusalem on Palm Sunday contrasted by the imperial entry into the other side of the city by the Roman governor on the same day... I didn't know that! I had long understood Jesus' life as a contrast to those in power in his day. His titles such as "Son of God" and "Lord" were chosen because that is what Caesar called himself. It was a clear slap in the face. But again, I didn't know about the entry in Jerusalem by Pilate on the same day as we call Palm Sunday. What a great visual. Can't wait to keep reading. And discussing on Sunday after church.
David

Thursday, February 5, 2009

"In a Dark Time"

Because I'm in a pulpit most Sundays, I rarely get to hear another pastor preach. Well, I heard a treat on Wednesday when I attended the chapel service at Iliff School of Theology. A local UCC pastor, Rev. Karen Kilpatrick of Arvada, gave a wonderful message called "Lincoln: Melancholy and Grace." We've been hearing a lot about Lincoln from our new president, plus it will be Lincoln's 200th birthday next week.

The line that stayed with me long after it was spoken is a quote by the poet Theodore Roethke, referring to his depression (which we know Lincoln also experienced): "In a dark time, the eye begins to see."

That's an interesting thing to consider during these dark times as a nation. People are pausing to consider what really matters. We have to make choices about how we spend our money and our time. Fewer impulse purchases, fewer miles driven, more appreciation for simple pleasures, including time for family, and the importance of community. If there is ever a time people value religious community it is during times of collective fear and doubt, as well as times of personal crisis. We don't have to look too far within our families or friends to find someone affected by job loss or fear of loss. Can we come out of this "depression" with stronger and more lasting values, both as a nation and as individuals? Can we become a less materialistic people, or is this just a passing hope? After 9/11, many thought we would be less divided as a nation and in fact, it was the opposite.

Karen wisely said, this time can be "an incubator for a surprising new grace."

What do you think?
David