tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-47514680597145033192024-03-13T14:06:17.521-07:00restless faithKierkegaard talks about having a faith that is restless - a faith that resists complacency and is active in the life of the believer. This is my hope for myself and the people I'm privileged to serve.Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-71251634982929352562017-11-08T22:48:00.001-08:002017-11-08T22:53:00.775-08:00Spiritual Battle in 2017<div class="MsoNormal">
A spiritual battle has begun in America, but it’s not being
fought in the way or over issues that many evangelicals are familiar with.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
It’s not about traditional values.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s not about culture wars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And it’s emphatically not about restoring America to a place of
exceptionalism, making America first, or making America great “again.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, all of that seems silly,
boring, and idolatrous when considering this spiritual battle.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BHnMlASovyo/WgP7BtFCmBI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/OFXUvHkGYYYOmouA-NJLq_yWr6w2XEcrACLcBGAs/s1600/battle.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="415" data-original-width="550" height="301" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BHnMlASovyo/WgP7BtFCmBI/AAAAAAAAA4Q/OFXUvHkGYYYOmouA-NJLq_yWr6w2XEcrACLcBGAs/s400/battle.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div>
This is a battle for the heart of the Gospel, and it what it
means to follow Jesus in 2017 whilst living in the United States of
America.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s being fought over
issues such as gun violence, immigration, sexuality, sexual abuse, racism,
classism, the environment, to name a few.</div>
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<br /></div>
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It’s not about abortion only, and that seems strange, foreign
even, to evangelicals of a certain stripe and certain generation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not about family values and that
seems odd, unfamiliar.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not
about Christian worldviews and apologetics, and that further confounds many
evangelicals brought up in the good old days of the Religious Right, Case for
Christ, Moral Majority, and Focus on the Family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
While some of those things maintain a level of importance in
this spiritual battle, they are not at the forefront.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At the forefront are questions of what it means to truly
love our neighbor – whether our neighbor is Muslim, Latino, Black, Asian, or
white; what it means to follow Jesus who said, “Love your enemies,” and
“Blessed are the peacemakers”; what it means to be a citizen of the Kingdom of
Heaven first, foremost, most importantly, most distinctly, definitively, before
identifying as a citizen of America or other geo-political entity; what it
means to walk humbly, doing justice, loving kindness/mercy; what it means that
God is making all things new, not all new things, and to live as if you expect
that to happen.</div>
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<br /></div>
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At the heart of this battle there is the person of Jesus,
the Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus is at the heart
of the battle because some who don the name “Christian” say Donald Trump is our
dream president.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus is at the
heart of the battle because some have said it’s our God-given right to possess
firearms designed to kill at high rates.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jesus is at the heart because some have said it doesn’t matter what we
do with this world, it’s all going to burn up in the end anyway.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus is at the heart of the battle
because some claim sexuality has been decided, centuries ago, and there is no
grey, only black and white, male and female, that’s it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus is at the heart of the battle
because some say upholding the laws of the land are more important than the
command to love our neighbor in the way the Good Samaritan exhibited radical,
costly neighborliness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus is at
the heart of the battle because some say people of other faith traditions
threaten our ability to freely worship and, ultimately, desire to exterminate
our faith altogether.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus is at
the heart of the battle because there is disagreement about Jesus and his
teachings.</div>
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<br /></div>
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There are others who say no elected official will ever be
our dream president because no elected official can ever replace our one and
only true allegiance to King Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are others who say that when Jesus commanded his disciple to put
his sword away, he once and for all commanded all Christians to lay down their
weapons.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are others who say
that this world was given to us to steward and care for, and as ‘creation
groans’ we will be held responsible for what we do to the earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are others who say sexuality is
broken, for ALL people, and so the best way forward is acceptance,
understanding, and compassion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are others who say the laws of the land are secondary at best
because our primary call is to love our neighbor, love the foreigner, for we
were once foreigners.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are
others who say other faith traditions are not our enemies, but may be the sheep
of the other fold Jesus referred to, or seekers of the cosmic Christ in their
own understanding and tradition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There are others who say that Jesus’ teachings are radical, adventurous,
push the boundaries, and we should do the same.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a spiritual battle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not the battle you might imagine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe you’ve been missing the
nuance.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>See, the lines are not
clearly drawn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not about
liberal and conservative, that’s boring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s not about being traditional or progressive as I don’t know whether
anyone really knows what any of these terms really mean anymore.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In other words, they only mean what I
want it to mean when I’m trying to distance myself in the battle, draw lines in
the battle, explain why I am right and you are wrong in the battle.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A generation is rising up observing the battle – the lines
that have been drawn – and many are walking away, disengaging, choosing not to
participate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They aren’t walking
away from faith, spirituality, the need for a Source, a Creator, a Spirit that
makes life more meaningful, more purposeful, more beautiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, they’re walking away from the
battle that is, at its heart, a battle between people who say they follow the
same God revealed in the person of Jesus Christ but refuse to come to the Table,
yes the Table, and move forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<span style="background: white; color: #14171a;">We need to get our act together, Church, fam. The Spirit is
moving. We need to confess our complicity in systems that hurt people created
in the image of God. We need to repent. We need to listen. We need to get do
justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with our God.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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-->Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-52960343824640208142017-11-06T11:14:00.000-08:002017-11-06T11:14:08.095-08:00Our Idols<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="2l8qi-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2l8qi-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="2l8qi-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">I'm sick over these shootings. I'm sick that these have become status-quo. I'm sick that as a country we have apparently become so impotent: "Nothing can be done. It is what it is."</span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="7agsg-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="7agsg-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="7agsg-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="3kfef-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="3kfef-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="3kfef-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">Yet some say we are exceptional. But we can't be exceptional if citizens can't go to a concert, the movies, school, or church safely. We can't be exceptional if we can't band together and make sensible change. We can't be exceptional if living here means we simply accept these tragedies as normative and magically wish and pray they don't happen to me or my loves ones. Exceptional people make exceptional, sacrificial, courageous decisions.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="48dgg-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="48dgg-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="48dgg-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="2vnc2-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="2vnc2-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="2vnc2-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">Yesterday I preached on the topic of Solus Christus, salvation in Christ alone. Nothing else can save us, but Jesus Christ. In Christian churches, heads nod and "Amens" are heard throughout when sermons like this are preached! "We love it! We love Jesus! He's my King! He's my Lord!" </span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="99m3f-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="99m3f-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="99m3f-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="bc05f-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="bc05f-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="bc05f-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">But we have our idols. If we're honest, it's not always Christ alone, and guns are but one of those idols. Our inaction on sensible gun control illustrates the fact that we would rather cling to our weapons for a feeling of safety and security than lay our lives at the feet of Jesus. We would rather hold fast to our claims as citizens of America who uphold the "laws of the land" than our identity as citizens of the Kingdom of God with Scripture as our one and only guide. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="qaot-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="qaot-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="qaot-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="34uav-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="34uav-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="34uav-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">We are experiencing a crisis of faith. Too many of us who claim to represent our Lord and King, Jesus the Christ, are double-minded and divided in our loyalties, something our Holy Scriptures warns against. It's no wonder the next generation is walking away from this badly conflated, syncretistic version of nationalistic faith we have passed down. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="1cc6n-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1cc6n-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="1cc6n-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="6s40k-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="6s40k-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="6s40k-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">Agree or disagree, these moments call for confession, repentance, prayer, unity, and the courage to move forward with hope as our guide, rejecting the FEAR so many will alluringly dangle before us. </span></div>
</div>
<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="6or8e" data-offset-key="1e8dl-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="1e8dl-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="1e8dl-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="3j3d4-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">To my friends and congregation, I'd love to begin face to face conversations on how we move forward as followers of Jesus that we might better represent his Kingdom while we sojourn on this earth. Lord, have mercy. May the peace of Christ be with us all.</span></div>
</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-44137042896754426972017-10-03T10:09:00.001-07:002017-10-03T10:10:21.072-07:00Self-Criticism<div class="" data-block="true" data-editor="5effh" data-offset-key="pvo7-0-0" style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: "SF Optimized", system-ui, -apple-system, system-ui, ".SFNSText-Regular", sans-serif; font-size: 14px; letter-spacing: -0.12px; white-space: pre-wrap;">
<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="pvo7-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="pvo7-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">I heard Richard Rohr say, </span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="pvo7-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">"Without the self-critical aspect of religion, when religion does not develop the prophetic or self-critical function at the core of its message, it is always idolatrous; it will always worship itself.”</span></blockquote>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="43ikh-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">I wonder if this could be true of all organizations, institutions, nations, even of individuals. When we lose the self-critical aspect - when we are afraid to ask tough questions, have tough conversations about the realities we are facing - we curve inward. This curving inward causes us to reject criticism, reject anything that might suggest, "Things could be better." We become defensive. We make excuses. We blame others. We cannot look within. We don't dare examine the depths of our heart, the depths of our souls.</span></div>
</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DIxvUbwyNhU/WdPEOiU9EeI/AAAAAAAAA3c/8ByTjKE7vXcGwNczd2bHD9AXk8g84eDUgCLcBGAs/s1600/Constructive-Criticism.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="771" data-original-width="1000" height="246" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DIxvUbwyNhU/WdPEOiU9EeI/AAAAAAAAA3c/8ByTjKE7vXcGwNczd2bHD9AXk8g84eDUgCLcBGAs/s320/Constructive-Criticism.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span data-offset-key="6b3mu-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="4n19o-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">A truly great organization, institution, individual can stand up to scrutiny, criticism, examination; it/he/she is not afraid to take a long look in the mirror. Criticism doesn't diminish greatness, it aims to make things better.</span></div>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="7rs73-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="dbv3r-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">Given the recent barrage of general craziness in our country over the past months, I wonder if this great nation is strong enough to stand up to criticism. Are we as a nation strong enough to carefully examine our warts, our diseases, our social and moral shortcomings? Do we believe "things could be better"? Some suggest calling any attention to these matters is divisive, thus seeking to shut down the criticism.</span></div>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="j64f-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="f3uaj-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">Players in the NFL and people of color are and have been criticizing; gun control advocates are criticizing; the citizens of Puerto Rico are criticizing; religious minorities are criticizing; LGBT community is criticizing. Will we hear the critique? Will we listen and wonder, "Could things be better?" or will we simply dismiss these voices and curve further inward? Are we impotent, powerless, unable to effect change?</span></div>
</div>
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<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="c86o-0-0" style="direction: ltr; font-family: inherit; position: relative;">
<span data-offset-key="c86o-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">And Church. Come on. Where you at Church? We who claim Christ should be more willing than anyone to look within, name our faults, and believe we can change, we can be made new, we can see things get better, we can see the messiest of situations redeemed. Right? Or have we given up on looking inward as well? Are we too participating in a culture that refuses criticism?</span></div>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="2sn1o-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">We need the prophetic voice. We need to listen to the prophetic voice. We need to allow the prophets on the margins of society to call us to something better, something deeper, something richer, something that allows for human flourishing for all humans, something that helps us all prosper and thrive.</span></div>
</div>
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<span data-offset-key="4dg4n-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;"><br data-text="true" style="display: block !important;" /></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="f3mlo-0-0" style="font-family: inherit;">If you've read this far, may the peace of Christ be with you!</span></div>
</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-11814298396319852062014-11-25T23:58:00.003-08:002014-12-05T15:40:56.519-08:00Lord Have Mercy<div class="MsoNormal">
I am a white man.
I have the privilege of sitting here in rural Washington living my life
as if nothing has changed and nothing will change; as in, my life goes on just
as peachy, prosperous, and promise filled as before.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I find myself watching Facebook and Twitter to get a pulse
for where “my people” are at on the recent verdict.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My seminary friends – mostly pastors now – and especially my
African American “friends” around the country are angry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is righteous anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is serious reflection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a sense that they are all
asking, “Seriously, this happened in 2014?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And then there are my more conservative “friends.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They too feel a sense of righteous
indignation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They too feel wronged
in this moment; after all, this was a police officer, one of US, defending
himself against a criminal.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I read.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I
weep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I get pissed off.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I wonder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What will I do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How will I respond?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will I
tweet something provocative?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Will
I share links that agree with where I’m at?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Where am I at?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And I realize.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We all need to shut up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Especially those of us in the white, privileged community.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We need to shut up and listen, grieve,
seek understanding, and forgiveness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We need to shut up and realize that a young man’s life has been cut
short.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A young man’s life has been
ended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Whatever he did; whoever he
was; the truth is that he was unarmed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>He was alive one moment, dead the next.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>His life was cut short, taken from him, ended.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If this happened in my community – to someone I knew – I’d
want answers.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d want
justice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’d want things to
change, or to at least know that this event, this terrible, tragic, insane
event was taken seriously enough to incite change.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And then I see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I see what’s wrong with the paragraph I just wrote.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Did you catch it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I “would” want this; I “would” want
that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why don’t I want it
now?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure, this happened thousands
of miles away from me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sure, this
doesn’t really impact me right now, right here in rural Washington.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But maybe it should.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it does.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No, strike that 'maybe,' it does.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I’m serious about Jesus’ definition of neighbor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If I’m serious about Jesus’ call to
love neighbor as I love myself, then this should matter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I shouldn’t see Michael as a MEMBER of
some community somewhere, out there, over there, different, detached, separate,
OTHER from me and my people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Michael is my people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Michael
is a kid that could be on my football team; he could be in my youth group; he
could be a friend of my kids’ one day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Michael could be the son of a guy I coach with.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Michael is part of me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But it’s easier to protect myself from going there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s easier to ignore that
truth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s easier to go about my
life because I’m allowed to go about my life; I’m privileged to go about my
life.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jesus says, “To those who much has been given, much is
required.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hate that
passage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why did he have to say that?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I ask because the truth is, I have a
lot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know it, and therefore I
have no excuse.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So what will I do?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Where am I at?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Writing this is the beginning – a really lame first
step.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some who read it will
question my motives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some will
disagree while others will want to join their voices to mine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But those who truly know me – know my
heart for the Lord and desire to see the Good News be Good News for all people
– will know that these words, these musings, are but a beginning. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Lord have mercy.</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-26557892823205852332014-11-07T14:47:00.000-08:002014-11-07T14:47:27.917-08:00Be Holy. Be Fascinating.<div class="MsoNormal">
Leviticus 20:26</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">You are to</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">be</span></b><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">holy</span></b><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">to me because I,
the</span><span style="color: black;"> <span style="font-variant: small-caps;">Lord</span></span><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">, am holy, and I
have set you apart from the nations to be my own.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Ephesians 1:4</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">be</span></b><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">holy</span></b><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">and blameless in his sight.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Hebrews 12:14</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">be</span></b><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">holy</span></b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">; without
holiness no one will see the Lord.</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Peter 1:15-16</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><sup><span style="color: black;"> </span></sup></b><span style="color: black;">But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all
you do;<b><sup> </sup></b>for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: black;">1 Thessalonians 4:3<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><sup><span style="background: white; color: black;"> </span></sup></b><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">It is God’s will</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="background: white; color: black; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">that you should be sanctified</span><span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">“Be holy.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">We are called to be holy; to be sanctified; to be set apart; to be different.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-bidi-font-size: 10.0pt;">In <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Jesus for President</i>, Shane Claiborne and
Chris Haw write, </span>“God would save the world through fascination, by
setting up an alternative society on the margins of the empire for the world to
come and see what a society of love looks like.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An alternative society on the margins.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Saving the world through fascination.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not sure if this is exactly appropriate, but what
happens if we replace the word holy, with fascinating?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Be fascinating.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wonder what this might do for the cause of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if instead of being uptight,
boring, uninteresting, blah, plain, against this and against that, the people
of God were fascinating?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We love and are loved by a fascinating, extraordinary
God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would that our lives would
reflect this truth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Be holy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be
fascinating.</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-66435445534909203082014-03-06T22:45:00.000-08:002014-03-06T22:45:18.471-08:00We All Die<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qVp-Osy814U/Uxln0lLoOiI/AAAAAAAAAn4/DrtPuHJuz2o/s1600/lent_desktop.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qVp-Osy814U/Uxln0lLoOiI/AAAAAAAAAn4/DrtPuHJuz2o/s1600/lent_desktop.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
We will all die. We spend a lot of time, energy, and resources desperately trying to avoid this truth. Through modern medicine, safety requirements, laws, and the like, we do everything we can to avoid the reality of death - the reality of our mortality.<br />
<br />
I stood in line to receive ashes. I watched as a mother went forward with her small children. They all received the ashes:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return. Repent, and believe the gospel."</blockquote>
I'm a parent. As I watched these children receive the ashes, I immediately thought about the mortality of my own children. We do so much to protect our kids. We go to great lengths and are willing to spare no expense to shield our kids from harm, especially from death. But on this night, the words for young and old are the same, "Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return."<br />
<br />
I was still in line. An older couple wanted to get in line, so I stepped back to let them in. He entered using a cane for support; she followed close behind. They helped each other along to the ashes, receiving them one after another:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return. Repent, and believe the gospel." </blockquote>
There aren't different words for different ages, races, genders. In this respect, Ash Wednesday reminds us of the greatest equalizer of all: the reality that we all die. Yes, we will all die. We all know it. We throw around the cliches, "Make the most of your time." "Life is short." "You never know when it's your time to go." <br />
<br />
But what do we do with this reality? How do we <b><i>live</i></b> into this reality? Lent invites us to consider these questions anew, with greater purpose and an intensified intentionality.<br />
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4uvoAy8WPY/UxlnuVC8vFI/AAAAAAAAAnw/bJGVTgPQ0To/s1600/Lent-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Z4uvoAy8WPY/UxlnuVC8vFI/AAAAAAAAAnw/bJGVTgPQ0To/s1600/Lent-1.jpg" height="320" width="269" /></a><br />
We <i><b>live</b> </i>into Lent, and the reality of death, anticipating resurrection hope. <br />
<br />
We <i><b>live</b> </i>into Lent, and the reality of our sin and imperfection, anticipating forgiveness.<br />
<br />
We <i><b>live</b> </i>into Lent, and in so doing, we proclaim the message of the Gospel - the message Jesus' proclaimed when he began his ministry - "The Kingdom of God is at hand, repent and believe the Good News!"<br />
<br />
But until the Day comes,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return. Repent, and believe the gospel."</blockquote>
<br />Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-74324581133116020802014-03-04T22:29:00.002-08:002014-03-04T22:29:40.547-08:00In Observance of A Holy Lent<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>“What is one thing you could do over the next forty days
that could change your life forever?”</b><br />
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZ4AXe7lFdI/UxbCoJzok-I/AAAAAAAAAnU/FOTy8lBqbUA/s1600/jesusdojo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OZ4AXe7lFdI/UxbCoJzok-I/AAAAAAAAAnU/FOTy8lBqbUA/s1600/jesusdojo.jpg" height="200" width="135" /></a>This question was asked in Mark Scandrette’s book, <i>Practicing
the Way of Jesus</i>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can’t think of
a more appropriate time for us to begin to ask ourselves this important
question than in anticipating the observance of Lent.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have to admit, the idea of giving something up or even adding
something to one’s life in order to think about Jesus’ sacrifice has often, in
my opinion, seemed trite or not quite far enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Jesus died for my sins, so I’m not going to eat chocolate
or be on Facebook this month.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
on top of this huge sacrifice, I’ll be sure to tell all my friends and complain
whenever the opportunity arises.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Somehow I don’t think that’s the idea of fasting.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So what if we considered making a change that could actually
impact our lives – not just for 40 days – but forever?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if we considered making a change
that not only eradicated a negative habit, but that created space for God to
inhabit the space that habit once held? [Mmmmm. I liked that last question]</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Scandrette offers some helpful instructions:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;">1 - Examine Your Life</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;"> <br />
Spend some time in solitude asking God to reveal where transformation is most
needed. In what area do you long for healing and greater wholeness?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 28.0pt 56.0pt 84.0pt 112.0pt 140.0pt 168.0pt 196.0pt 224.0pt 3.5in 280.0pt 308.0pt 336.0pt; text-autospace: none;">
<b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;">2 - Explore Patterns and Root Causes Identified</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;"> <br />
On a piece of paper, briefly describe the issue or pattern. What are the daily
choices you make that support this habit or pattern?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 8.0pt; mso-layout-grid-align: none; mso-pagination: none; tab-stops: 28.0pt 56.0pt 84.0pt 112.0pt 140.0pt 168.0pt 196.0pt 224.0pt 3.5in 280.0pt 308.0pt 336.0pt; text-autospace: none;">
<b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;">3 - Decide What New Practice(s) to Adopt</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;"> <br />
An effective experiment will include both elements of abstinence and engagement—something
you will stop doing and something you will start doing as a healthy
alternative.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;">4 - Commit to Your Plan</span></b><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Berylium-Regular;"> <br />
We show what we really believe and value by what we are committed to actually
do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Share your plan with a trusted
friend who will hold you accountable. Find a way to actually chart or show your progress and STICK TO IT! If you miss a day, don't give up!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m5U_CPzfM3I/UxbCy5fAJII/AAAAAAAAAnc/n3wK1Lxuso8/s1600/Rustic_Lent_TItle_CNM-HD_360_203.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m5U_CPzfM3I/UxbCy5fAJII/AAAAAAAAAnc/n3wK1Lxuso8/s1600/Rustic_Lent_TItle_CNM-HD_360_203.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What if we committed to observing a holy Lent, and in the process
changed our lives – creating space for the Creator to enter into and reshape our
habits, passions, and way of seeing the world? Will you choose to observe a holy Lent?</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-56597969281994992002014-02-19T23:25:00.003-08:002014-02-19T23:26:06.078-08:00Listen<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Isaiah 55:3a<br />
"Come to me with your ears wide open.<br />
Listen, and you will find life." (<i>NLT)</i></blockquote>
<i><br /></i>
We listen ourselves to life. In a world that is busy; that is frenetic; that is full; that encourages us to consume more, want more, get more, be more, and do more, we must stop to listen that we would find life. Jesus offers an abundant life to those who might follow him. He says that he is the Good Shepherd, and his sheep <i>listen</i> to his voice.<br />
<br />
Listen.<br />
<br />
I cannot escape this word these days. In reading Scripture, conversations with friends and colleagues, and other books that have called for my attention, the theme of listening seems to be everywhere. Why is that? What is it about this time in my life - this space in my vocational and familial life - that God is specifically reminding me of my need to listen?<br />
<br />
Transition. Excitement. Possibility. Opportunity. <br />
<br />
Will I listen? Will I let God lead?<br />
<br />
Help us to listen, Lord, that we might find life.Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-34996679891030349362013-05-31T21:00:00.003-07:002013-05-31T21:02:04.682-07:00Faith and DoubtIn conversations with students, I've been faced with the relationship between faith and doubt. Somehow, somewhere, students seem to believe that faith and doubt cannot coexist; that the existence of doubt is the negation of faith. Where do they get this notion?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pKmBgVQoY9s/Ualxj07Uo9I/AAAAAAAAAk0/pK9DIf0-gbU/s1600/images.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pKmBgVQoY9s/Ualxj07Uo9I/AAAAAAAAAk0/pK9DIf0-gbU/s320/images.jpeg" width="320" /></a>This has caused me to wonder just how many young people, or anyone for that matter, have left faith because they were discouraged by doubt. How many have we lost who believe faith and doubt were at odds? Isn't it more true to suggest that doubt drives us to deeper faith; that is, when we are able to truly wrestle with and deal honestly with our doubts, we are able to arrive at a deeper, more robust faith?<br />
<br />
In Rob Bell's most recent book, <span style="font-style: italic;">What We Talk About When We Talk About God, </span>this quote grabbed my attention:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"For many people in our world, the opposite of faith is doubt. The goal, then, within this understanding, is to eliminate doubt. But faith and doubt aren’t opposites. Doubt is often a sign that your faith has a pulse, that it’s alive and well and exploring and searching. Faith and doubt aren’t opposites; they are, it turns out, excellent dance partners."</blockquote>
<br />
Doubt is a sign your faith has a pulse.<br />
Doubt and Faith are excellent dance partners.<br />
<br />
I find myself agreeing with these notions. I think this will be helpful for students with whom I work. I am reminded of the man who said to Jesus, "I do believe, help me overcome my unbelief." Unbelief, doubt, uncertainty - this is where Jesus steps in and moves us, shapes us, changes our hearts and beliefs, our attitudes and understandings.<br />
<br />
So why are we so uncomfortable with doubt? Why does it seem so scary?Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-27845806579836834382013-05-23T00:09:00.002-07:002013-05-23T00:09:29.635-07:00Make It SaltyAfter reading the Kierkegaard parables I shared in my last post and reading/listening to Peter Rollins over the last month or so, I've been thinking a lot about the role of story in our preaching/teaching. Rollins uses parables A LOT, and they're effective. It's crazy how I remember these stories he tells.<br />
<br />
Rollins says, "Instead of religious discourse being a type of drink designed to satisfy our thirst for answers, Jesus made his teaching salty, evoking thirst." He explains this further in a video from 2011:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/26428677" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/26428677">The Power of Parable</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/peterrollins">Peter Rollins</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
<br />
I wonder whether our Christian teaching/preaching, even our conversations with others, focus too much on giving answers or providing solutions to biblical/theological issues. <br />
<br />
We use a lot of words in Christianity. We have a language that we use, and many of us who grew up in church or who have been around church are quite comfortable with this language - whether we realize it or not. But, how do we use these words, this language, in order to communicate with others - even fellow believers? Do we give out answers? Do we give easy to stomach definitions, black and white, that no one should dare have to think or wrestle with faith, doubt, the Bible? Do we give self-help? Do we peddle feel-goodism? <br />
<br />
Rollins says,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"It is all too common for Christians to attempt to do justice to the scriptural narrative by listening to it, learning from it, and attempting to extract a way of viewing the world from it. But the narrative itself is asking us to approach it in a much more radical way. It is inviting us to wrestle with it, disagree with it, contend with it, and contest it—not as an end in itself, but as a means of approaching its life-transforming truth, a truth that dwells within and yet beyond the words." </blockquote>
I like this idea of using parable, stories, that our words would be salty; thus, evoking thirst in our hearers. I'd love to have some salty conversations where I walked away thirsty, literally seeking out the water, Jesus himself. I'd love it if my preaching/teaching left people with questions, not of me, but of the text, of Jesus himself. I'd love it if they walked away looking for water, searching for life-giving water.<br />
<br />
Let's wrestle through this together. Let's sharpen one another as we seek answers and contend with, contest, disagree with one another, SO THAT we can be transformed by Jesus. <br />
<br />
May your words be salty. May your words invoke thirst.Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-15546812620257378032013-05-19T22:40:00.001-07:002013-05-19T22:40:30.609-07:00A Pentecost Message
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<span style="color: #262626; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Grande"; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">Jesus
taught using parables, one author says, “So that instead of religious discourse
being a type of drink designed to satisfy our thirst for answers, his teachings
would be <b>salty</b>, evoking thirst.”<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
This Pentecost Sunday, as we
celebrate God’s gift of the Holy Spirit and the birth of the church, I want to
share with you two parables attributed to Danish philosopher Soren Kierkagaard,
that these teachings might evoke thirst for the Holy Spirit.</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“There was a rich man. At an outrageous price he bought a team
of entirely flawless, splendid horses, which he had wanted for his own pleasure
and for the pleasure of driving himself. About a
year or two passed by. If anyone
who had known the horses earlier now saw him driving them, he would not be able
to recognize them: their eyes had become dull and drowsy; their gait lacked
style and precision; they had no staying power, no endurance; he could drive
them scarcely four miles without having to stop on the way, and sometimes they
came to a standstill just when he was driving his best; moreover, they had
acquired all sorts of quirks and bad habits, and although they of course had
plenty of feed they grew thinner day by day.<br /><o:p> </o:p>Then he called the royal coachman. He drove them for a month. In the whole countryside there was not a
team of horses that carried their heads so proudly, whose eyes were so fiery,
who gait was so beautiful; there was no team of horses that could hold out
running as they did, even thirty miles in a stretch without stopping. How did this happen? It is easy to see: the owner, who without being a coachman
meddled with being a coachman, drove the horses according to the horses’
understanding of what it is to drive; the royal coachman drove them according
to the coachman’s understanding of what it is to drive.”</blockquote>
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So ends the parable. Kierkegaard follows this parable saying,
“So also with us human beings.
When I think of myself and the countless people I have come to know, I
have often said to myself sadly:
here are capacities and talents and qualifications enough, but the
coachman is lacking.” </div>
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Today, 2000 years removed from the
day of Pentecost, we are in dire need of submission to the divine coachman, the
Holy Spirit; the same Spirit that drove the Apostles to preach, heal, and serve
in the face of great uncertainty and even physical harm. We, like the Apostles, must first die
to self, and die to the notion that we can drive these bodies of ours through
the perils of life, on our own, without aid, without God. We must die to self, that we might
allow the Spirit of life, the Spirit of Truth, the Holy Spirit of God to be our
guide, our driver, our coachman.</div>
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<br /></div>
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In John 14, Jesus promises the Holy
Spirit to those who would keep his commands and remain in him. In this chapter, Jesus makes two
statements I find quite interesting.
First, he says, “<span style="line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">Very truly I tell you, whoever believes in
me will do the works I have been doing, and they will do even greater things
than these, because I am going to the Father.” Even greater things.
Whoever believes in me will do not only the things Jesus has been doing,
but more. The second thing I find
fascinating is when Jesus says that it is actually better that he leaves. It is better for us that Jesus go to
the Father. He says, “If you loved
me, you would be glad that I am going to the Father, for the Father is greater
than I.” This is most certainly
interesting. It seems reasonable
that life would be much better <i>if</i>
Jesus were to stay, but Jesus seems to say that it is better that he leaves,
for the presence of the Holy Spirit will allow us to do GREATER things that
even Jesus did.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: Verdana; mso-bidi-font-size: 16.0pt;">To further evoke thirst, allow me to share the second parable.</span></div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="color: #262626; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Grande"; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">There was a certain
town where all the residents are ducks.
Every Sunday the ducks waddle out of their houses and waddle down Main
Street to their church. They waddle into the sanctuary and squat in their proper
pews. The duck choir waddles in and takes its place, and then the duck minister
comes forward and opens the duck Bible.</span><span style="color: #262626; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Grande"; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">He reads to them:
"Ducks! God has given you wings! With wings you can fly! With wings you
can mount up and soar like eagles. No walls can confine you! No fences can hold
you! You have wings. God has given you wings, and you can fly like birds!"</span><span style="color: #262626; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Grande"; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">All the ducks shout,
"Amen!"</span><span style="color: #262626; line-height: 150%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Lucida Grande"; mso-bidi-font-size: 13.0pt;">And
then they all waddle home.</span></blockquote>
<!--EndFragment-->Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-56079164530462444612013-05-13T16:35:00.002-07:002013-05-13T16:35:57.312-07:00Parable On Heaven - At LastI can't seem to shake the power of this parable Peter Rollins shares in his book, <i>Fidelity of Betrayal</i>. He shares it in the video I've posted below. I found this parable, originally told by Philip Harrison, to be challenging and encouraging in that it surprised me, caught me off guard, and messed with my preconceived notions of the allure of heaven. The promise of heaven is unbelievable, indescribable, even considering the amazing revelation given to St. John. I'm interested in reactions to this parable. I'm wrestling with what it means for us, particularly for people like me who live comfortably as Christians in this world that is not our home.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/19258866?portrait=0" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="400"></iframe>
<br />
<br />
You can also read the parable from Rollins' book if a 3 minute video seems to long for you!<br />
<br />
<br />
The other day I had a dream. I dreamed I arrived at the gates of heaven, heavy-shut, pure oak, bevelled and crafted, glinting sharp in the sunlight. St. Peter stood to greet me; the big man wore brown, smile set deep against his ruddy cheeks.<br />
<br />
“You’re here,” he said.<br />
<br />
“I am,” I said.<br />
<br />
“Great to see you—been expecting you,” he smiled. “Come on in.”<br />
<br />
He pushed gently against the huge door; it swung silently, creakless. I took a couple of steps forward until, at the threshold, one more step up and in, I realized I wasn’t alone. My friends had joined me, but they hovered behind, silently, looking on. None spoke. I realized only I could speak. I looked at them; some were Christians, some Hindus, some Buddhists, some muslims, some Jews, some atheists. Some God knows what. I stopped, paused. A hesitant St. Peter looked at me, patiently, expectantly.<br />
<br />
“What about these guys?” I asked him. “My friends. Can they come?”<br />
<br />
“Well, Phil,” he replied, soft in the still air, “you know the rules. I’m sorry, but that’s the way things are. Only the right ones.”<br />
<br />
I looked at him. He seemed genuinely pained by his answer. I stood, considering. What should I do? I thought about my reference points, and thought about Jesus, the bastard, the outsider, the unacceptable, the drunkard, the fool, the heretic, the criminal, and I knew exactly where I belonged.<br />
<br />
“I’ll just stay here then too,” I said, taking my one foot out of heaven. And I’ll tell you, I’d swear I saw something like a grin break across St. Peter’s face, and a voice from inside whispered, “At last.”<br />
<br />
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-39471651970224682642013-05-09T16:19:00.003-07:002013-05-09T16:27:32.305-07:00Come to _____________ ?This video from <a href="http://www.theworkofthepeople.com/come-to-christ" target="_blank">Len Sweet created by "The Work of the People"</a> was speaking my language today. I'm going to leave this short as I'm still processing these thoughts. Maybe you can enter into the current monologue I have going in my brain. Watch the video first, then think about this phrase that's been stuck in my head today:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<b>Our benchmark for Christian faith isn't the Bible, it's Jesus.</b></blockquote>
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I'm not sure I have much more to say. This thought - this phrase - was stuck in my head as I drove to a youth pastor meeting today. Is it a true statement? Is it intelligible? I'm not sure what to make of it, but there it is! <br />
<br />
Like I said, check out the video. Reflect. Comment.Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-25665027842640965972013-04-22T11:06:00.000-07:002013-04-22T11:08:14.029-07:00Evangelism - A Moving Target<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"In a world where people believe they are not hungry, we must not offer food but rather an aroma that helps them desire the food that we cannot provide."</blockquote>
Peter Rollins, <i>How (Not) to Speak of God</i><br />
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I'm finding myself newly engaged in thoughts and conversations on evangelism. Several blogs I read - (http://www.averageyouthministry.com) and (http://careynieuwhof.com) - have been talking about sharing the Gospel given our place in this post-Christian reality. It's all caused me to admit that evangelism, or sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ, really is a moving target. That is, our strategies and approaches must adapt as we seek to share The Good News that is unchangeable with a constantly changing culture. <br />
<br />
Nieuwhof had an excellent post the other day where he described the "<a href="http://careynieuwhof.com/2013/04/15-characteristics-of-todays-unchurched-person/" target="_blank">15 Characteristics of Today's Unchurched Person</a>." In his list, one grabbed my attention: #6 - You can't call them back to something they never knew. I've thought about the concept of revival, even prayed that it might happen in our country, our county, our community. I'm not giving up hope for revival, but I realize the truth in the fact that there might not be much to "revive" these days. How do you offer the Bread of Life to people who don't believe they need it? How can we invite people to receive the Good News when it doesn't seem so good to them? Instead, we must, as Peter Rollins suggests, "Offer the aroma that helps them desire the food." <br />
<br />
It's not our job to offer the food, but to <i><b>be</b></i> an aroma that helps them desire the food that, in the end, we cannot provide. God alone provides the food - is the food. Let us be the <b><i>aroma</i></b> that draws them to the food.<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><u>2 Corinthians 2:14-15</u><br /><span class="text 2Cor-2-14" id="en-NIV-28839" style="background-color: white;">But thanks be to God,<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28839D" title="See cross-reference D">D</a>)"></sup> who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28839E" title="See cross-reference E">E</a>)"></sup> of the knowledge<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28839F" title="See cross-reference F">F</a>)"></sup> of him everywhere.</span><span style="background-color: white;"> </span><span class="text 2Cor-2-15" id="en-NIV-28840" style="background-color: white;">For we are to God the pleasing aroma<sup class="crossreference" style="font-weight: bold; vertical-align: top;" value="(<a href="#cen-NIV-28840G" title="See cross-reference G">G</a>)"></sup> of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing.</span></span></blockquote>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-21579410598965249742013-03-28T23:04:00.001-07:002013-03-28T23:04:58.475-07:00"continuous partial attention"In his book, <i>Cracking Your Church's Culture Code</i>, author Samuel Chand quotes Linda Stone, a former Apple and Microsoft employee, who says,<div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
To pay continuous partial attention is to pay partial attention—CONTINUOUSLY. Another way of saying this is that we want to connect and be connected. We want to effectively scan for opportunity and optimize for the best opportunities, activities, and contacts, in any given moment. To be busy, to be connected, is to be alive, to be recognized, and to matter. We pay continuous partial attention in an effort NOT TO MISS ANYTHING. It is an always-on, anywhere, anytime, any place behavior that involves an artificial sense of constant crisis. We are always in high alert when we pay continuous partial attention.</blockquote>
<div>
There's a lot going on in that quote. What stands out to you? I've noticed a lot of this recently in my personal life and my work with students. Turns out FOMO, the Fear of Missing Out, has truly enslaved us. It has caused us to waste the precious, yet oft neglected resources of attention, time, and brain waves. We find ourselves asking, "What if? What if I'm not 100% in the know about March Madness, the 2013 roster of the Chicago Cubs, and the progress of spring football in Nebraska?" Maybe those are the things that drive me to Facebook, ESPN.com, and Twitter. Maybe it's just me. Maybe I'm the only one willing to admit I suffer from "continuous partial attention disorder."</div>
</div>
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<div>
I'm currently coaching high school baseball, and our team is struggling. We are competing; the games are close, but we're just not quite winning. Winning the game sort of matters in sports. Now you know. Sports are supposed to be fun, and winning, let me tell you, is really fun. Winning beats losing every time. All that was for free, back to the good stuff. Our team is struggling. We've noticed that in the midst of these struggles there aren't a lot of guys eager to put in extra work to improve. I know some of them could read this, so they need to know that I know that some of them are working hard and putting in extra effort. However, some of them have other things on their minds. Some can't seem to escape the lure of March Madness. Some are thinking about the video game they'll rush home to play, or the homework they've put off for literally a year. Those are the "finally getting around to my Junior goals essay because now I'm a Senior and I need it to graduate" guys. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The question is, What really matters? You see, the athletes I coach are prone to say that sports really matter to them; they hope to make all conference, earn all-state recognition, a college scholarship, or to play professionally. Yet, they rarely count the cost and put in the work necessary to achieve these goals. Their sports careers are an exercise in "continual partial attention." Sports are important, yes, but there are a lot of other things competing for their attention. I mean, what if I don't know who Taylor Swift is currently dating? That could mean the end of all things for a high schooler, right?</div>
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<div>
I wonder, how many of us could say the same about our faith? We really <i>want to want to</i> love and follow Jesus, but there are so many other things competing for our attention. So, we give Jesus our continuous partial attention. We give Jesus a little slice of our attention, and we have good intentions to give him more. Yet, when it really comes down to it, there are other "opportunities, activities, and contacts" that we also need to keep an eye on. This continuous partial attention impacts our discipleship, our relationships, and our ability to focus on what really matters.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Examine your life. Think about your day. How often are you 100% present to the person or task at hand? How often are you able to give your full attention to Christ? As I type this, I have an episode of the Office playing on the Wii and my iPhone is blowing up with texts. This blog post has been an example to me of my participation in a lifestyle of continuous partial attention. What about you?!</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-9204962276726019842013-03-18T15:58:00.001-07:002013-03-18T15:58:48.429-07:00The Church?What is the "Church"? How do we define the Church? <div>
<br /><div>
If you've been around Evangelicalism as long as I have you know the answer:</div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The Church is the people.</blockquote>
</div>
<div>
While I understand this statement and the sentiment behind it, I heard something the other day that gave me pause to think. We usually say "Church is people" in contrast to an understanding that Church might be a building, a denomination, a mission, or a religion.</div>
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<div>
I'm at the dentist last week, and my hygienist starts talking to me about my work as a youth pastor. We talk (as well as I could talk in between scraping, polishing, you know the drill!) about her participation and frustration with church over the years. We talk about the need for positive influences in the lives of youth and the importance of spirituality. In the course of the conversation, as she alludes to past hurts done by church people she says, </div>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"I always have to remember the Church isn't the people; it's bigger than that."</blockquote>
<div>
Did you catch that? It caught me off guard. It actually made sense. It makes sense. The Church can't just be the people. If the Church is "the people," then we've got a mess on our hands, and so long as people continue to be part of the Church, the mess isn't going away! I think, and I'm still trying to think this all through - constantly working on ecclesiology - that the Church has to be bigger than the people. To be certain, the Church includes the people, but it's got to be bigger. Right?</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-23524910174426645472013-02-28T11:24:00.000-08:002013-02-28T11:24:00.790-08:00Are We Paying Attention?What follows is an article I wrote for our church newsletter. The video embedded fits really well. I believe you'll see the connection after reading the article. The question is, "Are we paying attention?"<br />
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Mark Labberton, Associate Professor of Preaching at Fuller Seminary,
asked, “Are you paying attention?”
His message got my attention!
Labberton suggested that the Bible tells a story where:</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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1)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->God pays attention to people, whom he created<br />2)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->God then calls people to pay attention to Him<br />3)<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: 7pt;">
</span><!--[endif]-->Finally, God sends people to pay attention to
others</blockquote>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
In the final January Sunday school class on Evangelism, I
shared from Luke 7:36-50. Jesus is
eating at the house of Simon, a Pharisee, when a woman enters who is, we are
told, a notorious sinner. This
woman has the audacity to cry on Jesus’ feet, wipe the tears away with her
hair, and finally to pour perfume on his feet. This was too much for Simon. “If Jesus were a prophet,” Simon thinks, “He would know who
is touching him – that she is a sinner.”</div>
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After telling a parable about debts being forgiven, Jesus
asks Simon, “Do you see this woman?”
It seems like a silly question.
Of course, physically speaking, he has the ability to see the
woman. She is impossible to
miss. Is it possible, then, that
Jesus is asking, “Are you paying attention?” </div>
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In our world, we too encounter people everyday at work,
school, the grocery store, and even in our own family that we have trouble
seeing. Are we paying
attention? </div>
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On my way to Midwinter I read a book by Carl Medearis
entitled, <i>Speaking of Jesus: The Art of
Not-Evangelism</i>. In the book,
Medearis says that sharing faith isn’t about doctrine, dogma, or apologizing
for church history; it’s about pointing people to Jesus. He writes, “Relax. Enjoy your friends.
Enjoy their company along with the company of Jesus. Point Him out, freely,
without fear or intimidation. You’re not responsible to sell Him to them.
You’re simply saying what you’ve seen. You’re not the judge. You’re the witness.”</div>
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There is great freedom in this approach. We are invited to share our stories
with others in a way that takes them seriously, takes Jesus seriously, and that
shows the world that we are paying attention. What an enormous privilege! </div>
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In my Midwinter travels, I had an opportunity to do just as
Medearis described. I was waiting
for the bus at LAX. A young woman
stood beside me, also waiting. The
bus seemed to be late, so I asked, “Is there any chance you are also waiting
for the bus to Santa Barbara?” She
was. She introduced herself. She was in Southern California on a
business trip from China. I asked
about her work. She asked what I
do for work. I explained that I am
a Pastor in a church. The bus
came. We got on and she sat in the
row across from me. </div>
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About 30
minutes into the ride I heard my name, “Chad,” she said, “Would you mind
telling me more about your work? I
am very fascinated by this.”</div>
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I realized I had been presented an opportunity to be a witness;
to tell what I have seen; it was also my opportunity to pay attention. As I told her about my role in pointing
students to faith in Christ, she asked, “So you are like a life coach? This is a good thing!” I was able to use her understanding of
life coaching, and my own experience, to say, “Yes, but, in my work I am always
pointing kids to Jesus. I am
always asking, “How are your dreams, goals, and hopes for the future influenced
by your faith in Jesus Christ?” </div>
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I found that because I was thinking about paying attention,
was aware of the presence of another, and was intentional about pointing to
Jesus, I was more relaxed and confident that Jesus would do the work of making
himself known to this young woman.</div>
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I wonder if we paid attention and knew that we aren’t called
to be the judge, or the sales rep, but are called to be the witness, how many
of us would have more conversations like this? How have you been paying attention to God? How have you noticed God paying
attention to you? And, how are you
doing at paying attention to others?
Are you willing to share what you’ve seen; to point people to the God
revealed in Jesus Christ, who pays attention to humanity? May it be so with us!<br />
<br />
Now check out this little video that shows just how hard it is to truly pay attention. How'd you do?<br />
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Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-24880349202455374182013-02-18T10:15:00.000-08:002013-02-18T10:15:26.455-08:00Lent - Wondrous EncountersReading through Richard Rohr's, <i>Wondrous Encounters, </i>during Lent again this year. As my wife and I have been reflecting on these short devotionals, I'm always left saying something like, "Wow, that's deep." Usually, something as simple as the 'starter prayer' he uses at the end grabs me. I blogged about one of these last year where Rohr invites us to pray, "God give me the desire to desire what you want me to desire." Yeah, that's the kind of stuff I'm talking about. <br />
<br />
Another of these starter prayers caught my attention the other day; it reads,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
“God, what is it that you want me to let go of this Lent? Is it other than what I think?”</blockquote>
I have decided to "let go" or "give up" something this Lent. I'll confess, I haven't always been disciplined about this. I sort of grew up thinking Lent and all of the giving up of stuff was a Catholic thing. Seriously. I remember seeing folks with ashes on their heads and thinking, "Must be Catholic." It never crossed my mind that this season was an opportunity for all Christians to focus on Jesus' journey to the cross and consider the cross we are to carry as we follow Jesus.<br />
<br />
Anyway, I mentioned I've decided to give something up this Lent. It's something that I thought would be tough to let go of, but I'm finding maybe it's just slightly annoying and not a major sacrifice. I've given up COFFEE. I wouldn't say I drink a ton of coffee everyday, but enough to feel the difference when I'm much less caffeinated. And if I'm being honest, which I like to be, I'm a little more than cynical about the notion that somehow me giving up coffee - this sacrifice I'll make - is on par with Jesus' agonizing, torturous death on the cross.<br />
<br />
Back to Rohr's prayer, “God, what is it that you want me to let go of this Lent? Is it other than what I think?”<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m5mzu9T-Iss/USJvUOiVxeI/AAAAAAAAAic/7Y4FJBV2NVQ/s1600/home_img1_starbucks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m5mzu9T-Iss/USJvUOiVxeI/AAAAAAAAAic/7Y4FJBV2NVQ/s1600/home_img1_starbucks.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's what I feel happening - why this starter prayer hooked me. I'm seeing that I like the "idea" of drinking coffee more than I like the coffee itself. I like the experience and the way it makes me feel. I like the "idea" of going to Starbucks, knowing that the baristas know my drink before I order, and many even know me by name. I like the "idea" of grabbing coffee with a student, a volunteer, a friend. It feels somehow more intimate and genuine than grabbing a soda ever did. Coffee, I guess I could say, has become some strange identity forming thing for me. It's not just about the coffee and the impact of the caffeine in said coffee; it's about something bigger! <br />
<br />
I've been hoodwinked! I've been snagged by the idea that grabbing a cup of coffee with a specific label makes me sophisticated, smart, an aficionado of finely brewed caffeinated beverages. I'm a coffee snob. I complain when all they have on tap is Pike roast. Yuck! The allure of Starbucks. Driving to church without going to Starbucks. These are the "ideas" I have to let go of. I am battling the possibility that I have fallen prey to really good marketing; after all, I am the proud owner of a Starbucks "Gold Card" since 2010! Can I let go of my image as a coffee snob? Can I let go of the ideas I have surrounding coffee, and the potentially negative identity forming habits I've developed? I guess we'll see. It's day 6 of Lent. I've a long way to go. I continue to pray the prayer, "God, what is it that you want me to let go of this Lent? Is it other than what I think?" Show me, Lord Jesus, and lead me to the cross.<br />
<br />
What about you? What is it that God is asking you to let go of this Lent, as you journey to the cross? Is it other that what you think?<br />
<br />
(BTW - there are several "Infographs" on the interwebs depicting the "Starbucks Experience." I'm not making this stuff up, and I'm not crazy! Yeah!)Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-67689125734628206692013-01-07T14:48:00.000-08:002013-01-07T14:48:12.145-08:00Life After Confirmation
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Our church has a vibrant, 2-year Confirmation program for 7<sup>th</sup>
and 8<sup>th</sup> grade students where they study the Old and New Testaments
as well as a smattering of church history and basic theology. It’s become a BIG part of our youth program
and an extremely positive experience for the students. So much so that students have actually
cited Confirmation as one of the highlights of their faith journey. I’m not making this up.</div>
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A few weeks ago I was having a great chat with a parent of a
9<sup>th</sup> grade student about the strength of the Confirmation program,
but lack of any follow up course of study.
It got me thinking quite a bit because...he was right! We are doing
a great job bringing up kids in the church, teaching them the Bible, and then
right when they get to the age where the faith needs to sink in at a deeper
level or their faith may be sunk, we sort of leave them to fend for themselves.</div>
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So…With the success of the program, and following this
conversation, it’s left me asking the question, “What’s after
Confirmation?” For two years
students are showing up every Wednesday night, skipping sports and other
commitments, to be a part of a class that studies the Bible. Yes, our families are actually choosing
faith development over sports and other extracurricular activities for their
children. But then, just months
after graduating the program, many disappear as they enter high school, never
to be seen in Sunday school or youth programs again. What changes in the lives of these students who are so fired
up for God in the spring of 8<sup>th</sup> grade as they enter high school a
few months later? Or, what is it
we’re not offering, or calling them to participate in, that could continue the
journey begun in Confirmation? Is
it possible that we lose some students because there is an empty answer to the
question, “So I’ve graduated Confirmation, what’s next?” I think the same can be said in the
studies surrounding the large number of our students who leave the church after
high school. “So I’ve graduated
from high school, what’s next?” We
need answers to these questions.
Answers that are varied, creative, and that tell the truth of the
struggles of owning one’s faith during and beyond adolescence.</div>
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What comes after Confirmation? Is there anyone out there who has implemented a program or
post-Confirmation study for their youth?
I’m part of a denomination that elevates Scripture to a high level, and
rightly so, but I’m afraid we haven’t done a good enough job in helping our
students to have a continued appreciation and ongoing desire to study God’s
Word.</div>
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<br /></div>
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So, what’s after Confirmation? Dream dreams with me.
Think big.
Discipleship?
Mentoring? Bible
study? Confirmation 2.0? </div>
<!--EndFragment-->Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-89411178072932237352012-12-04T23:34:00.004-08:002012-12-04T23:35:43.708-08:00Newsletter of the FutureI'm devouring this book: <i>Hatch! Brainstorming Secrets of a Theme Park Designer</i> by C. McNair Wilson. Seriously, if you've ever wanted to be inspired to get a group of people together and seriously come up with some great, off the wall ideas and actually put them into action, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/1938512014/teawithmcnair-20" target="_blank">GET THIS BOOK</a>! In no way am I getting any profit from pointing you to this book. Maybe it's just me, or maybe this is something you're struggling with in your ministry, your job, your life - coming up with new ideas that will excite, motivate, inspire, and answer that constant question, "What's next?"<br />
<br />
One of my favorite chapters is about generating <b>WILD</b> ideas - those ideas that seem CRAZY when they pop into your head, but just might be THE idea that sparks the answer to those illusive questions, "What's next? What will really grab people's attention?"<br />
<br />
Somewhere in the chapter he talks about writing a <i>Newsletter of the Future</i> (an idea he has apparently trademarked, so don't go stealing this!). Here's the concept: Fast forward 20 years. A newsletter is released describing your life, your company, or your ministry's program or focus. What are the headlines of that newsletter? What do they say?<br />
<br />
Think about it. What do you want to accomplish in 20 years? Personally? Professionally? In your family? Financially? Spiritually? Where do you want to be in 20 years? What will the headlines say?<br />
<br />
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Here's why this is part of the <b>brainstorming</b> process: Don't think about HOW you're going to get there. Don't think about what needs to happen to get there. Don't 'block' yourself; that is, don't think of why you <i>can't </i>accomplish these things. That critical thinking comes later. What would you do, seriously, if $ didn't matter, and ideas that would otherwise be considered CRAZY were considered normal, encouraged, allowed?!<br />
<br />
I think all of us should consider making our own <i>Newsletter of the Future</i> lists. What do you want to accomplish? What are the TOTES CRA CRA (that is teenage speak for "totally crazy" I'm told) ideas floating in that brain of yours that you're afraid to tell someone about because what if...what if they said, "LET's DO IT!" Think crazy. Think big. Think WILD.<br />
<br />
Here's what's on my list right now, and this list will surely grow. It's the year 2032, and I'm 52 years old. This is what I'm dreaming of:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
1) The McDaniel family has spent a year or two living overseas. The McDaniel family is fluent in Spanish and it greatly impacts their cross-cultural ministry in the U.S.<br />
2) Chad has been a speaker at an event like CHIC.<br />
3) Began a non-profit business with Jodi's knowledge of management, marketing, and the non-profit sector that supports ministry to the homeless and children on the margins. <br />
4) Own a house on a lake that is used regularly by ministries and family. A place of hospitality, generosity, and community. We want to be in a place where we can be insanely GENEROUS and BLESS other ministries as we've been blessed in ministry.</blockquote>
I'm still dreaming. What about you?<br />
<br />
And here's why this is a <b>GENIUS</b> part of brainstorming: Look at your list. I bet you can do these things. I bet if you grabbed this book and went through the whole brainstorming process you'd realize, "I can do this. I can accomplish even some of the WILD-est ideas on my list."<br />
<br />
So do it. Make the list. Start thinking WILD. Start dreaming big.Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-67215899767274622572012-11-29T16:42:00.000-08:002012-11-29T16:42:17.992-08:00Gap YearThere are some dismal, scary statistics out there regarding the lack of "sticky faith," or faith that lasts, among our Christian young people today. By and large the data overwhelmingly suggests that youth ministries and churches are failing at encouraging and cultivating a faith that lasts. If you have yet to come across these studies, and what I've said above is "news to you," here are some books to add to your reading list:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<i>Almost Christian</i> by Kenda Creasy Dean<br /><i>Sticky Faith</i> by Chap Clark and Kara Powell<br /><i>Souls in Transition</i> by Christian Smith<br /><i>You Lost Me</i> by David Kinnaman</blockquote>
These are not easy reads, nor are they fun and inspiring. The data is sad, and sorta scary. If what these studies suggest is true, we need to wake up and make some changes. I'm encouraged by the conversations I hear in churches and amongst youth workers who are taking these studies seriously, but I'm wondering what other ideas are out there...Is there hope that we can turn the trends in the other direction and put our energy and efforts into ministries that will cultivate lasting faith in the lives of the young people with which God has entrusted us? Will we be honest about ministries and programs of which we are a part that desperately need to be changed or ended? In the world of youth ministry, "That's the way we've always done," just isn't cutting any more. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aQ0E2muQdKE/ULf-oJAXvpI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/tj0bnHb8euE/s1600/1309790130gap-year-media.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="179" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aQ0E2muQdKE/ULf-oJAXvpI/AAAAAAAAAhQ/tj0bnHb8euE/s320/1309790130gap-year-media.jpg" width="320" /></a>I have an idea. It's not a fix, not fool proof, and not the end all be all. It's an idea. It's something that could address this concern for some students, and it has to do with the concept of a "Gap Year." A Gap Year takes place between high school graduation and college studies, and is not a new idea. Let's face it, some of, if not most of, our students are not immediately ready for college or "real life" after high school. And apparently they aren't prepared and equipped for life after youth group either. <br />
<br />
The Evangelical Covenant Church used to have a solution of sorts for this; it was called Covenant Bible College, and it was successful for many years serving students on 3 campuses. Unfortunately, as you may have deciphered, these campuses are all closed. What can we offer students today? <br />
<br />
<a name='more'></a><br />
As I talked with my wife and a friend about this growing concern, we started talking about the Gap Year. What if there was something for students who weren't ready for college but wanted to pursue Christian discipleship and service training? There is an organization already doing this rather successfully, it's called The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the Mormons. Maybe you've heard of them! Say what you will, they have this down. Every year Mormon students forgo college scholarships, athletic opportunities, and put other life goals on hold because they are committed to their church and their faith. Seems like it's working for them as they continue to be one of the fastest growing religious groups in America.<br />
<br />
What about us? Could we do this? Could we create a program of sorts where students move away from home for a year or two to serve in a church and participate in kingdom work in the community all while participating in an intentional discipleship program led by church staff and/or lay leaders? Could we make this happen? It wouldn't be that hard. Gather a host family or two, make a list of all the ministries that need to be supported, create an informal discipleship curriculum, and set aside a meager budget to provide the students with some spending money. <br />
<br />
I'm tossing this out there to see if this idea has legs. Anyone reading this blog, I'd love to hear your reactions. What am I missing? Could we pull this off? Is it already happening and the word hasn't gotten out?Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-29659126185115399862012-11-21T16:02:00.001-08:002012-11-21T16:02:59.779-08:00A People of Fascination<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">“God would save the world
through fascination, by setting up an alternative society on the margins of the
empire for the world to come and see what a society of love looks like.”</span><div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">-Shane Claiborne, <i>Jesus for President</i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">Are we, the people of God in the world today, a people of <i>fascination</i>? Are we even interesting, remotely relevant, or somewhat important to our communities? I'm not asking these questions of our worship services, programs, or preaching, I'm wondering whether we, as the <i>people</i> of God, are living lives that reflect God in us. Are we fascinating? Are we interesting, inspiring, encouraging, resilient, faithful, loyal, people of integrity? </span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">I'm wrestling with this personally. Have I risked anything for the Gospel? In what ways am I fascinating, interesting, encouraging, and making a difference for Christ in my community? I try to do this through the influence I have in coaching. Because I coach in the public school, my influence is mostly subtle and almost entirely through my actions alone, but I believe Jesus is working. </span></div>
<div>
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<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I have a desire, however, to pursue this idea further. Where else can I be fascinating, or can I be pointing people to the God of fascination? </span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">Here's where I'm going with all this: I would contend that the reason we're not as fascinating as we once were, is that we've lost our imagination, or ability to be creative. Our ideas have dried up or are stuck in a foregone time. We fight culture wars to preserve what once was. We argue, "Well, we've never done it that way before!" Or, we look to the culture around us and try to spiritualize good ideas already in existence. We aren't using the brains our ever so creative Creator gave us!</span></div>
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<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I'm reading a book that is both challenging and encouraging me to think up new thoughts about Church. Specifically, I'm reading a book that is teaching me <i>how </i>to think up new thoughts; that is, how to create a culture of imagination and fascination within the Church. The book, <i>Hatch! Brainstorming Secrets of a Theme Park Desginer,</i> by C. McNair Wilson. What a book it is! I recommend reading it if you have ever been frustrated with brainstorming gone nowhere or planning sessions that are all planning with zero implementation. I'm challenged to both create and participate in a place where creativity and curiosity is encouraged, and particularly in youth ministry, I think this could be HUGE!</span></div>
<div>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><br /></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';">I hope you'll consider grabbing this book. I also hope you'll consider using your imagination and God-given creativity to examine, brainstorm, and launch some big ideas in your context. Let us once again become a people of <i>fascination</i>, that the whole world would take notice and be pointed to God, the Creator of all things.</span></div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-48457056105273177492012-11-19T00:01:00.001-08:002012-11-19T00:01:15.934-08:00Me 3Have you ever heard the saying, "Me 3"? It's a catchy little thing reminding Christians to put God 1st, others 2nd, and me 3rd. The idea of putting others first, looking to the interests of others, and refusing selfish desires is all over the Bible. We are a people called to love other people above ourselves because we serve and follow a Savior who modeled this very thing. As Paul said, "Who being in very nature God...made himself nothing by taking the very nature of a servant." Jesus is our model for the "Me 3" attitude.<br />
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Check out this video before reading on...</div>
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While I watched this video I kept waiting and waiting and waiting for something. Can you guess it? What would it be? I kept waiting for the reporter to say something like, "Tom is a Christian!" I kept waiting for the "Good Samaritan" to say he does this because of his faith. But there's no mention of faith in this story. This man is putting the "Me 3" idea to work because of his concern and care that others were treated like he was treated years ago. Hmmmmmm. Seems like a biblical concept to me! <br />
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So why can't we grasp this? Why is it so hard for us to regularly put the "me 3" attitude into practice? My recent posts have centered on this very idea, "What if Christians lived as Jesus taught us to live and became identified as a 'me 3' people; a people know by their love for others?" </div>
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WHAT IF?</div>
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What can we learn from this man's story? What are we missing? Why do I remain so selfish when God has been so self-less with me? <br />
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"They'll know we are Christians by our LOVE."<br />
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Not by our bumper stickers. Not by our t-shirts. Not by our ability to memorize Scripture or perform miraculous signs. Not by our morality or rule following. The world will know we are Christians by our love. Will we give ourselves, and others, enough grace to follow through on Jesus' command to love as he loved us?</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-6467601686584971642012-11-13T08:35:00.000-08:002012-11-13T08:35:07.310-08:00Truth TellingI have a degree in History. This, you might think, it worthless and silly considering I never considered a career in teaching with this degree! If I had the chance to do it all over again, I'd choose History every time. I learned a lot about critical thinking and analysis as a History major. I'll never forget these words from one of my profs:<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Just because someone says something, doesn't make it true."</blockquote>
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Simple enough, right? "Just because someone says something, doesn't make it true." As I read through the post-election articles, reflections, and musings, I can't help but be reminded of this statement: "Just because someone says something doesn't make it true." Just because we are told something about a political candidate, doesn't make it true. Do some fact checking. Do some research. Learn. Read. Listen. Check out <a href="http://FactCheck.org/">FactCheck.org</a> to see what is truth, half-truth, and flat out bull. It's sad that fact checking sites need to exist, but I wonder, how many people even care? I believe we would believe almost anything if the right person says it. Why? Fear.</div>
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There was a lot of fear surrounding this election - on both sides of the political aisle. Fear can be an awful motivator. Fear often leads to vilification and demonizing of the other, the unknown, or the stranger. Fear can lead us to easily identify and exaggerate the negative traits of those with whom we disagree. Fear causes us to label, judge, and dehumanize the other. Look at the campaign. Look at the ugliness. Look at how quick people are to point fingers, make rash statements and judgments based not on truth, but on fear. We are willing to stoop pretty low, even us Christians, when we are afraid.</div>
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Is there a way forward in our civil discourse? Is there a way forward in the church as we are forced to tackle difficult social issues such as same sex marriage, the legalization of marijuana, abortion, war, and capital punishment? Will we listen to each other and take each other seriously, even our enemies? Will we be informed not by our favorite brand of media or culture warriors, but by God's Word, stories from real people, historical analysis, and evidence? </div>
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I spoke in my last post about the postings on Facebook and Twitter following the election results. It was clear to me that many of these posts were simply words regurgitated from the various news outlets and stump speeches of candidates. In some of these posts a dialogue would appear in the comments section. As I creeped on these conversations, I began to wonder, what is the truth, and is there hope that it will emerge in a Facebook comment section? Will people really listen to each other through Facebook? Has anyone EVER changed his/her mind based on Facebook comments alone? What if those conversations happened over a cup of coffee? What if those conversations could include a smattering of understanding, a hint of serious reflection, and HUGE doses of HUMILITY? Would our current civil discourse look any different if we weren't so concerned about winning as we were about loving our neighbor as ourself?</div>
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Remember, "Just because someone says something, doesn't make it true."</div>
Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4751468059714503319.post-36803034521406875152012-11-08T11:22:00.000-08:002012-11-08T11:22:57.321-08:00The Election and TechnologyIf you were like me, you were both horrified and mystified by your Facebook and Twitter feed Tuesday night as the world closely followed the Presidential Election. The rhetoric and emotion I witnessed by supporters of both sides was fierce. There were those who promised to move to Canada if Obama was elected. I even saw a few more enlightened folks, those who realized Canada isn't a conservative playground, threaten a move to Russia or other far away places. And there were those who were simply saddened by election results; saddened by the weakening of our morals, our values, our heritage as a free people. There were nasty exchanges between people of opposing views. There were flame wars that erupted at the mere mention of the words Obamacare, taxes, small business, gay marriage, or the national debt. I don't think I need to tell you, reader, just how heated and divided we are. <br />
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Okay. Enough about that. This isn't a post about politics. It's about technology. As you might be able to predict, a good percentage of those whom I follow on Twitter and my Facebook friends are Christians. And Christians on both side of the political aisle had a lot to say about this election. And it wasn't all pretty. In fact, most of it was sort of sad. At least, it made me sad. It spoke of hopes erased, dashed, destroyed for one side, and hope restored and fortified for the other. And we choose to communicate these sentiments through Facebook. We choose to communicate these fierce emotions through social media.<br />
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<a name='more'></a>I ran across an article from the <i>New York Times</i> this morning, and it reminded me of simpler times, where people might have sat across from those with whom they disagreed - might have had a cup of coffee and discussed important issues with serious concern for their friendship, community, and future relationships. I wonder if all that hasn't been dissolved a bit. What is technology doing to our civil discourse? What is technologies role in widening the divide between right and left? <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKjLvAaVgBc/UJwF65UylqI/AAAAAAAAAgc/pusGh77NqHc/s1600/08mountain-cnd-articleLarge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="176" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DKjLvAaVgBc/UJwF65UylqI/AAAAAAAAAgc/pusGh77NqHc/s320/08mountain-cnd-articleLarge.jpg" width="320" /></a>To the article, entitled, "<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/11/08/us/vermont-school-cut-off-from-technology-faces-its-intrusion.html?nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20121108&_r=0" target="_blank">A School Distanced From Technology Faces Its Intrusion</a>." Check it out. These kids are learning something about being together, slowing down, and truly seeing the beauty of of the world God has created. They are learning how to be in community. They are doing this all without Facebook, texting, or other social medias. Social media is supposed to help us to be better connected and help us share information quickly, but is it actually driving us apart as we hide behind computer screens ranting and raging, calling names and placing blame?<br />
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I'll close with a quote from the school's director, Alden Smith, and invite you to read and reflect on the article in your own time:<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia, 'times new roman', times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 22px;">“The idea is not to be going back to a time where things were better,” Mr. Smith said, “but where the richness of each day is defined by the food you eat, the company you keep, the work you do.”</span></blockquote>
<br />Chad McDanielhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01531034188570730195noreply@blogger.com0