tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28898635562397744342024-03-04T21:06:42.668-08:00Maple MusingsDavid Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-51507294763215727282019-05-30T12:52:00.000-07:002019-05-30T12:52:25.990-07:00Getting The Lead Out<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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Earlier this week I arrived home after a week’s vacation,
and I want to say a word of thanks to those people who filled in for me when I
was away.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thanks to Dr. Tom Johnson for
filling the pulpit, Virgel Rodriguez for taking care of the Children’s Sermon,
and Dan, Cliff, Tom, Michael and Bert, for your help and flexibility </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Part of my vacation was spent in the town of Galena,
a tourist attraction in upper Illinois.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The town is located in Jo Daviess County,
which at one time provided 80% of the lead used in the United
States.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>During the Civil War there was great demand for lead, but after the war
this demand dried up and the town’s fortunes fell, until it could be reborn as
a historic tourist site.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The towns name appropriately
comes from the mineral Galena which
is the lead ore that was mined there.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is a long history of lead production in this
area.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Long ago Native Americans
discovered that if they burned the mineral Galena
in a fire, and got it hot enough, the result would be ash and lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The ash they threw away, and the lead they
could use in various ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This process
of heating an ore and separating the metal is called smelting, and it’s the
process used to produce not just lead, but tin, copper, silver, and gold.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When it comes to ores, fire separates what’s
valuable from what’s useless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fire is an
instrument of purification.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Fire tests
an ore’s metal, revealing what it’s really made of.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is true in Biblical imagery as well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the Bible, fire is often a metaphor for
the trials that cleanse us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus said
he came to baptize with the Holy Spirit and Fire and he went on to say that the
wheat will be gathered in the granary while the chaff will be burnt away (Luke
3: 16-17).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The Apostle Paul writes:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
Now if anyone builds on the
foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw—<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><sup>13</sup> the work of each builder will
become visible, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed with
fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each has done.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(1 Corinthians 3:12-13 NRSV)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I think Thomas Edison knew something about this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Over one hundred years ago the great Edison
industries of West Orange, New
Jersey were wiped out by a fire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thomas Edison, who was 67 years old at the
time, lost two million dollars in one fell swoop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Suddenly much of his life’s work was gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The next morning he walked about the burnt
ruins of his life, and said these profound words:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“There is great value in disaster.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All our mistakes are burned up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thank God we can start anew.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And with those words the metal of Edison’s
life became visible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Edison
got the lead out, started to rebuild, and three weeks after the fire his firm
delivered the first phonograph.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We all face trials and hardships in life, and those fires –
great and small – reveal a lot about us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As they burn away the unnecessary things we get to see what’s left.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some people fires reveal only ash.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For others lead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some, silver and gold.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This summer, as we face the heat of the sun along with the
heat of life’s disappointments, we mustn’t forget to fill our lives with things
that are fire proof, things that will last, things that really matter in the
end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No one is immune to trouble, and just
as fire brings lead out of Galena,
may our hardship bring the light and grace of God out of us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yours in Christ;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-88006309568827060182019-05-30T12:43:00.000-07:002019-05-30T12:43:43.427-07:00Cultivate Your Garden<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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There’s an old classic preacher’s story that goes something
like this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A new pastor was visiting one
of his members, who had a reputation for maintaining a beautiful garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The reputation, it turned out, was entirely
deserved.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gardener proudly showed
the pastor around showcasing the flowers and vegetables that sprang from the
ground.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Finally the pastor remarked:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“God has truly blessed you with a beautiful and productive garden.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The gardener nodded, and then added, “But you
should have seen the place when God took care of it by himself!”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gardening is one of the most ancient activities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When God created the world in Genesis, he
started by planting a garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And then
God created people to be the gardeners of this garden.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“The Lord God took the man and put him in the
garden of Eden to till it and keep it” (Genesis 2:15
NRSV).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Gardening is also the image the
Apostle Paul draws on when he describes his ministry.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the
growth” (1 Corinthians 3:6 NRSV).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
seems that God didn’t create gardens so they could tend themselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He created us to tend gardens for him.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We till.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
plant.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But God gives the growth.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you have a garden, good for you!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you don’t have a garden I’m here to remind
you that you really do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our neighborhood
and world is a garden that you’ve been created by God to cultivate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And for me, and many of you reading this, Maple
Avenue United Methodist
Church is the specifically local
community garden we’re called to tend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is both a blessing and a challenge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our congregation is a garden unlike any other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a ministry that is unlike any other
ministry in town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have a family of
faith unlike any other membership roll in town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And we have the potential to make a significant and positive difference
in the 12 Points Neighborhood, and the world – a potential that only we can
fulfill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just as God calls each
individual to a unique ministry, Maple
Avenue United Methodist
Church has its own special calling
to serve God’s Kingdom in ways we are specifically qualified to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maple Avenue is a beautiful and unusual
garden, and you’re significant part of it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since May is the month many people start focusing on their
gardens, let’s focus on this one.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
have a free community meal coming up on Wednesday, May 15<sup>th</sup>, from 5-7 p.m.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The whole point of this gathering is for people of the congregation and
people of the neighborhood to meet each other and make new friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be part of this event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And on Sunday, May 19<sup>th</sup>, we will
have a pot-luck dinner immediately after our second service (11:30 a.m.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Bring a dish to share (it could be your favorite recipe, or simply a bag
of potato chips) and enjoy the food and fellowship.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Invite your friends and neighbors to join you for worship.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At all of our events make visitors and guests
feel welcome.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And lift up our
congregation daily in prayer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s the
right time of year for gardeners to spring into action, so let’s cultivate our
garden together.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In Christ;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-70958424630060384412019-03-25T08:59:00.000-07:002019-03-25T08:59:47.152-07:00Springing To Life<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/ff/GilfKebirJerichoRoses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Image result for rose of Jericho" border="0" class="irc_mi" data-iml="1553529602100" height="213" src="https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/ff/GilfKebirJerichoRoses.jpg" style="margin-top: 26px;" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
You might never have heard
of the <i>Anastatica hierochuntica</i>, otherwise call a “Rose of Jericho,” but
it has some fascinating properties which you can see demonstrated in several
YouTube videos.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is actually a tumbleweed
found in the <span class="mw-redirectedfrom">Sahara</span><span class="mw-redirectedfrom"> </span><span class="mw-redirectedfrom">Desert</span><span class="mw-redirectedfrom"> and other arid portions of the </span><span class="mw-redirectedfrom">Middle East</span><span class="mw-redirectedfrom">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It dries up in
the desert heat looking like it’s totally dead, and it can </span>tumble around
the desert sometimes for years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you
were to see one you might think it only a wad of dead leaves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when it tumbles into some water or the
rainy season comes a funny thing happens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The leaves unfurl and their color changes from a lifeless brown to vibrant
green.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The plant springs to life in a
matter of hours.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, it can’t tumble
around without water indefinitely.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If it
went a decade without water it would probably stay brown and withered since it
deadness can become a habit. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>But the plant is
designed to bear times of trial in anticipation of those times of renewal and
rejuvenation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
And for its rebirth, all the
Rose of Jericho needs is a little bit of water.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
The forty day period before
Easter, usually called “Lent,” is traditionally a time to remember the forty
day temptation of Jesus in the wilderness. We do this by facing our own temptations in our
own wilderness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a time to confront
the cold hard challenges that most of us would like to put off indefinitely. It
can be a time of profound spiritual growth as we tumble around our arid landscape. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>But we can’t live forever devoid
of pleasure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rough times always need to
be punctuated by times of refreshment – even for Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Lent is always followed by Easter.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Jesus tells the Samaritan
woman at the well, <i>“…those who drink of the water that I will give them will
never be thirsty. The water that I will give will become in them a spring of
water gushing up to eternal life." (</i>John 4:14 NRSV).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Easter (April 21<sup>st</sup>
of this year) is the time to drink fully of that water so we, like the Rose of
Jericho, can spring to life with joy and anticipation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Appropriately enough the
Rose of Jericho is part of a class of flora called “Resurrection Plants” so
called because they bounce back to life when nourished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we are “Resurrection People.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We bounce to life as well, fed by the
Easter power of Jesus Christ.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Christ is risen and we, like
him, are victorious over death itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Life rises triumphant from the grave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The light shines in the darkness and the darkness could not overpower
it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So as the cold winter months finally
draw to an end, this is the time to celebrate and rejoice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Check out our Cantata.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Share in our Bible Study.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Renew your friendships.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Enjoy the flowers and the beauty around
us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dare to laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Start to bloom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And like the Rose of Jericho allow God to
fill your dead withered leaves with nourishment and life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
Christ is risen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That’s our signal to follow his example and,
like the Rose of Jericho, spring back to life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">Springfully yours;</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">David </span></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-11265403790715258812019-03-25T08:46:00.003-07:002019-03-25T08:46:52.732-07:00March Blog - Looking and Seeing<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Years ago I was
driving into Rockport Indiana in the first new car we’d ever bought; a Ford
Escort.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It only had around 600 miles on
it at the time and was barely broken in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As I entered the town a car in the approaching lane swerved into my lane
suddenly and unexpectedly, clobbering my car hard and throwing me against the
door.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Thankfully, even though I was sore
for a week, nobody was seriously injured.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The car, however, was a total loss.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The driver of the other vehicle was apparently trying to make a
left-hand turn through me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I looked at
you but I just didn’t see you,” he said.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Then several months
ago I was sitting at a red light on </span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">3<sup>rd</sup> street</span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> near the courthouse behind another vehicle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As I waited for the light to change there was
a sudden “WHOMP” and I lurched forward.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A van had rear-ended me while I sat there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Again, nobody was hurt and sitting in front
of the courthouse the police were quickly on the scene.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The driver of the van was quite apologetic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I just didn’t see you,” he told me.</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">There is a
difference between looking and seeing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">I can’t criticize
these drivers too strongly, however, because I’ve done the same thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve looked without seeing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’ve searched for that salt shaker when it was
sitting on the shelf in front of me, or sought my wallet or keys when they were
right on the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We all tend to do
this, and we all tend to do this especially with our own faults.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As Jesus says:</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">“…how can you say to your neighbor, "Friend, let me take out the
speck in your eye,' when you yourself do not see the log in your own eye? You
hypocrite, first take the log out of your own eye, and then you will see
clearly to take the speck out of your neighbor's eye.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Luke </span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">6:42</span></strong><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;"> NRSV)</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">We are preparing to
enter into the season of Lent, which begins with Ash Wednesday on March 6<sup>th</sup>
of this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s traditionally a time
for self reflection and introspection.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a time for us to make small changes in our lives that may have
enormous consequences in the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a
time to look and see the logs in our own eyes.</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">So how does one go
about looking <i>and</i> seeing?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We do
it by focusing on what we should be looking at, putting pride and preconceived
notions on hold, and opening ourselves up to new visions and insights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God has a hard time revealing new things when
we only see what we want to see.</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">This Lent let’s
focus on those things in our lives we need to change.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s put pride and preconceived notions on
hold, and open ourselves to new insights from God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s move from merely looking to actually
seeing.</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Lent is an
appropriate time to let our guard down and examine our lives humbly and
honestly.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That's something we need to do before we hit the
road, or another car.</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">Yours in Christ;</span></strong></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">David</span></strong></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-75210633368569429132019-03-25T08:27:00.000-07:002019-03-25T08:27:16.955-07:00January Blog - Behold, I Shall Show You A Mystery<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For the 3<sup>rd</sup> year in a row we will be presenting
our Murder Mystery Theater on February 8 and 9, 6
p.m. This year’s feature, “No Body To Murder”, promises to be fun
and funny.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know the cast has been having
a great time preparing to present it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of the enjoyable things about a Mystery Theater is that
the audience has an opportunity to figure the mystery out at the end and prizes
are awarded to those who solve the mystery. So technically, while the play is
a mystery before the show begins, it’s not a mystery by the time people
leave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s only a temporary mystery
that quickly gets resolved, so those present can pack up and go home satisfied.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s too bad every mystery doesn’t get solved this fast. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>Currently science is full of mysteries that
scientists have been struggling to understand for decades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is “dark matter,” and how can quantum
physics and general relativity be unified are just a couple of the big ones.
And if we’re honest, most of us live lives full of unanswered questions;
mysteries that always elude our understanding even when we fool ourselves into
believing we have them figured out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
more I think I understand people, the more they prove far more complicated and
interesting than I imagined.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is unfortunate, since most people, including myself, have
a strong distaste for unanswered questions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I want to know if flying saucers are real, big foot exists, and what
happened to Amelia Earhart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Mysteries
creates a tension that we naturally seek to resolve with answers, and this is
where faith often steps in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People think
of faith as that cure-all that eliminates the mysteries around us so we can
live our lives secure in our certainty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But this isn’t exactly the case. As 1 Timothy 3:16 reminds us, mystery is also part of faith itself.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
Without any doubt, the mystery of
our religion is great: He was revealed in flesh, vindicated in spirit, seen by
angels, proclaimed among Gentiles, believed in throughout the world, taken up
in glory. (1 Timothy 3:16 NRSV)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The phrase “mystery of our religion” doesn’t get thrown
around much these days, maybe because we want a religion free from
mystery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in fact, our religion is
something of a mystery.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This means that
we never have everything – including the Bible, Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit,
or God himself – wholly figured out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christianity
is a mystery that encourages us to grow in our knowledge and understanding, but
it’s always bigger than what we know and understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And a real faith doesn’t eliminate the
mysteries of life, it equips us to live joyfully in the face of those
mysteries.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Life itself is a bit like a murder mystery theater, and
we’re participating, trying to understand.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But that understanding will never be complete until we take our final
bow and the curtain closes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
What faith does is enable us to live our lives fully and
well until that time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Without a doubt,
the mystery of our religion is great”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mysteriously yours;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David </div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-89468852263260431222019-03-25T08:06:00.000-07:002019-03-25T08:06:56.372-07:00December Blog - Be A Child<!--[if !mso]>
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<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: center; text-autospace: none;">
</div>
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Something terrible happens to most of us, usually
somewhere between the age of 10 and 20.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We grow up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While there are
certainly advantages to growing up and there are times when it’s quite helpful
to be mature -- something vital and vibrant often gets lost in the
process.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Think about how you experienced
Christmas when you were a child.
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Children
receive Christmas with joy</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is
a building sense of excitement.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most
days have only 24 hours, but the days leading up to The Big Day go so slowly
for the child they’re at least 58 hours in length.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children can’t wait for Christmas morning to
arrive.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Adults
receive Christmas with depression</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s so much to do and so little time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get the gifts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Cook the food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hang the lights.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Trim the tree.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who’s gift are we forgetting?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When can we relax?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day’s whiz by at the speed of Christmas
lights, and the holiday comes and goes with the blink of an eye.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Children
receive Christmas with wonder</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There
is enchantment in the air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have the
magic of the Bethlehem star,
Christ’s birth, angels and magi. Christmas is when a mysterious God breaks into
the world with glorious light.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And of
course, there’s Santa Claus and his reindeer.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Adults
receive Christmas with skepticism</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s no such thing as magic.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Bethlehem star was
probably just supernovae, or a strange conjunction of planets.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Angels are cute decorations, but nothing
else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And Santa Claus?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Well...you know what adults think.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Children
receive Christmas with faith</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Anything can happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dreams come
true, and endings are happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At
Christmas the world becomes less scary and cold, and more cozy and warm.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Miserly scrooges become generous friends, and
people help each other.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There’s peace on
earth and good will toward others.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span><b>Adults
receive Christmas with cynicism</b>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All
people care about is money and things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We’ve got to push our way through the crowds, to spend our cash on gifts
that will probably break, or get returned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Help other people?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>No time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of peace, we have traffic jams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of good will we have short-tempered
shoppers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>I
suspect that Christmas is for children.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They are the ones who seem best able to enjoy it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many of us adults have forgotten how.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>How
many years has it been since you were a child?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Maybe it’s been too long.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; tab-stops: .5in 400.5pt; text-align: justify; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>This
Christmas, why not revisit your youth? Let go of your depression, and get
excited again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Forget about your
skepticism, and rediscover wonder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead of exercising cynicism, embrace the world with faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Savor the days with delight.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .5in;">
<span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Be
a child.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all, that’s exactly what
God became, 2000 years ago, in a manger in Bethlehem.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .5in;">
Merry Christmas!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="tab-stops: .5in;">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-75115949983147793002019-03-25T08:03:00.000-07:002019-03-25T08:03:43.938-07:00When Troubles Return<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
Douglas
Fairbanks, the famous actor, was driving back to his mansion in England
when he saw an Englishman plodding along the road in the heat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The stranger looked familiar, so Fairbanks
stopped to offer him a ride, which was gratefully accepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As they drove along, Fairbanks
wracked his brain trying to remember where he knew the aristocratic,
well-dressed, gentleman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still unable to
remember who he was, Fairbanks
invited the man into his house for some refreshment, and to try to elicit some
clues to his identity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The visitor knew
many of Fairbanks’ friends, and
seemed familiar with the estate - commenting favorably on some recent
improvements.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
When Fairbanks’
secretary finally walked into the room, Fairbanks
took him aside and whispered the question that had been plaguing him:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>‘Who is this Englishman?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know he’s Lord somebody, but I can’t
remember his name.’</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
‘That,’
replied the secretary, ‘is the English butler you fired last month for getting
drunk.’</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
Problems
have a way of returning to haunt us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not
just once or twice, but again and again and again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Just about the time you think you’re through
with a difficulty, a new one takes its place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Just about the time you think you’re rid of an inconvenience, there it
is again in all its glory.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
It is
the nature of life to throw obstacles in our path.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But at the same time, it’s our nature, as we
share in the Spirit of Christ, to keep on going.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is our nature to grow through adversity. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
Beethoven’s
composition teacher pronounced him a hopeless dunce who couldn’t learn
anything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lucille Ball was fired from
the chorus of a road company and told by a Ziegfeld aide, “you’re not meant for
show business.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Go home.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Rudyard Kipling was fired from his first job
as a reporter for the San Francisco Examiner and told he didn’t know how to use
the English language.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Edgar Rice
Burroughs, who wrote <i>Tarzan of the Apes</i>, didn’t think it was much of a
story and doubted if anyone would read it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They all had troubles return to them, and they all grew through the
adversity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
The
point of the whole process is this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Overcoming trouble is the only way we can grow as individuals.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world knocks us down, God raises us up
and we start out again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The world knocks
us down, God raises us up and we start out again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in that repetitious cycle our faith takes
root, our inner strength blossoms, and our character begins to resemble the
character of Jesus Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
Jesus
Christ himself was thought to be a dangerous failure, with his message of love
and forgiveness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was nailed to a
cross and written off as finished.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
far from being done, God raised him up and he started out again.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And because he rose and lives in us, we can
do the same.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
Troubles
always return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But so does Jesus
Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And with his strength and Spirit
we can outlast any trial the world may send our way.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David Rockhill<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-66749939426315515122018-10-04T08:45:00.000-07:002018-10-04T08:45:45.338-07:00That Old Gypsy Man<!--[if !mso]>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my favorite poems, which has only gained traction for
me as I age, is by Ralph Hodgson.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
begins and ends with the refrain:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
Time, You Old Gypsy Man<br />
Will you not stay, <br />
Put up your caravan <br />
Just for one day?<a href="https://www.poemhunter.com/poem/time-you-old-gypsy-man/" target="_blank"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The poem speaks of the relentless march of time through the
ages, and the longer I live the more time <b><i>does</i></b> seem to be relentless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Having just returned from our vacation with a
slew of photographs, I look at the pictures now and wonder.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each image is a fleeting moment of time captured
like a bug in amber.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Once I looked
forward to this vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Now, in the
blink of an eye, it’s all past.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Time,
that old gypsy man has moved on.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcAtOWG1zIsLwTlA7i8cKYmY5NG6325Bl62S5EWWwIS6_GXKQdcRaXA9p2MB6VFIDx8HLXYzULn9mOByvX4uBkxDxXEBBCMm_8_I0qfiAxpAsHLRgV2Hxa4QJZFpGrm5ap8MxTZA8Jlg1/s1600/Maui+Sunset.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="960" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWcAtOWG1zIsLwTlA7i8cKYmY5NG6325Bl62S5EWWwIS6_GXKQdcRaXA9p2MB6VFIDx8HLXYzULn9mOByvX4uBkxDxXEBBCMm_8_I0qfiAxpAsHLRgV2Hxa4QJZFpGrm5ap8MxTZA8Jlg1/s320/Maui+Sunset.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In the office we have a collection of photographs from the past
of Maple Avenue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of those pictures were real moments in
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The children dancing around the Maypole,
the women dressed in their black long sleeved dresses and elaborate hats, the
former pastors who served going back to Albertus T. Briggs (who served here in
1882).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of these are moments in time
that have slipped into the quicksand of yesterday.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And this moment now will soon be gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You will stop reading my words, and they will
fade into a memory – if that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in the
inexorable march of time there is the seed of eternity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And as the present drifts into the past there
is something that lasts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus Christ
says this in the final chapter of the final book of the Bible:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<i>I am the Alpha and the Omega,
the first and the last, the beginning and the end." </i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<i>(Revelation </i><i>22:13</i><i> NRSV)</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not all things slip away
after all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And as we move onward to our
Omega, our Last, and our End, there is a light that has always been there and always will be there. There is Something that doesn't fade.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Time may pass us by, but we're still part of something that is eternal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This moment will cease, but the
work we’re involved in will continue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And not even that old gypsy man can outrace the Alpha and Omega of the cosmos. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As time relentlessly marches forward why not make yourself part of an eternal presence? Why not make a lasting difference in this world?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why not give yourself to something bigger and better than yourself? Time marches on, but the Kingdom we’re serving will outlast
time itself.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Eternally Yours, </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David Rockhill</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-25309870301626312792018-08-31T08:26:00.001-07:002018-08-31T08:26:38.489-07:00Don’t Be Fooled By The Imposter!<!--[if !mso]>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Last week I started receiving Facebook
messages from people wondering why they were getting a friend request from me
when I was already their friend.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It
turned out; I was the victim of what has become a very common thing on Facebook
and in social media:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somebody was
impersonating me without my knowledge or permission.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbOh-Rd7UtQ1TH6vOshrktK0APS7k9mN1p8D6c7sc4Vva-MUtOrs4O4uag8IHabsHC1W5DOiX966vwfmHFRJnry7ED1qaiaQhiLn2hAZPhMn3aaX91yPadJjiUerSVlGem5aoYKzwkswo/s1600/Real+David+Small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="320" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQbOh-Rd7UtQ1TH6vOshrktK0APS7k9mN1p8D6c7sc4Vva-MUtOrs4O4uag8IHabsHC1W5DOiX966vwfmHFRJnry7ED1qaiaQhiLn2hAZPhMn3aaX91yPadJjiUerSVlGem5aoYKzwkswo/s1600/Real+David+Small.jpg" /></a>Someone had lifted an online picture of me, and some other
public photo’s of mine, and put together a Facebook page, using information
about me available online.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That person
then opened a Facebook account pretending to be me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The only thing the phony got wrong was my
gender.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For some reason he/she listed me
as a woman!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This last mistake was a red
flag to people who actually knew me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Why do this? Why pretend to be someone else online?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are several reasons someone might want
to impersonate you in social media.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
someone is tricked into accepting an imposter as a “friend,” then that phony
friend has access to information posted for friends only.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a way of data-mining, as the practice
has come to be called.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It also gives the
imposter fake credibility, since he/she can make comments or give advice
pretending to be you, thus tricking people into taking the imposter seriously.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>More disturbingly, it can be a way of
smearing someone’s character, since a person impersonating you can post things
supposedly from you that make you look bad.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I reported it to Facebook several times, and when some of my
friends started reporting it, the fake account was closed down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A big “thank you” to my friends who reported
the imposter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So if you have a friend
being impersonated, report it right away.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
You may think this is a new problem, but it goes back to
Jesus’ day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many books claiming
to be written by Paul, Peter, Andrew, Judas, Mary, and a whole host of early followers
of Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>These books were almost
certainly written by people pretending to be them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you’re interested in reading these books check
out one of the online collections of “Pseudepigrapha” – the fancy name used by
scholars for the library of ancient books written by imposters.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
.Jesus himself warns against those who would impersonate
him!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
Then Jesus began to say to them,
"Beware that no one leads you astray.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Many will come in my name and say, "I am he!' and they will lead
many astray (Mark 13:5-6 NRSV).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Not everyone speaking for Jesus, God, the Holy Spirit, or
the Apostles, is really speaking for them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And to spot the imposters, there are some simple things to look
for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jesus is all about love (of even enemies), forgiveness,
healing, and grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anyone who doesn’t
speak with these qualities isn’t speaking with the mind of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And since Jesus is a reflection of God,
anyone who doesn’t speak with these qualities isn’t speaking on behalf of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And since the Holy Spirit is the power of
Jesus and God at work in the world, anyone who doesn’t speak with these
qualities isn’t speaking on behalf of the Holy Spirit.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And since the Apostles were filled with and
moved by the Holy Spirit, anyone who doesn’t speak with these qualities
probably isn’t speaking on behalf of the Apostles.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
When it comes to me, and other friends of yours, don’t be
fooled by an imposter.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when it comes
to Jesus, God, the Holy Spirit, or any aspect of your faith, it pays to be extra
careful.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In God’s Peace;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The Real David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-91157006668451846032018-08-31T08:09:00.000-07:002018-08-31T08:09:22.736-07:00The Joy Of Losing Things<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I recently decided to clean out my cell phone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have used it to take numerous photos over
the last couple years, saved many documents, taken notes, etc.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I even had a whole file devoted to the 2018 Indiana
Annual Conference filled with relevant material.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Most of this stuff doesn’t mean anything to me now, I don’t
really need it, and if it had disappeared suddenly a week ago I wouldn’t have
noticed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Yet, as unimportant as my phone
clutter may be, I have a hard time pushing the “delete” button and getting rid
of it for good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What if I accidentally
delete something important?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Some of
those photos may turn out to have historical value!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And besides, it’s not like they’re taking up
space in my house or office.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So, instead of deleting them, I found an old thumb drive,
and simply transferred them over so I can throw them into a corner and forget
about them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I now rest easy in the
knowledge that they’re still around if needed, even though I probably will
never need or see them again.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Human beings have a natural tendency to view losses as far
more significant than gains.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If you find
twenty dollars you’re naturally happy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But if, soon after this, you have a five dollar bill fly out the window
and disappear, your regret for losing the five dollars completely overshadows
the joy you should have at being fifteen dollars to the good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Psychology and Economics this is called
“loss aversion,” and it is a verifiable part of our human wiring.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It may make sense from a survival point of
view, but in the modern world it can lead to a host of problems including
spiritual and physical hording.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our fear of losing can get us into trouble because there are
things in our lives we ought to lose; things that we cling to unnecessarily.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We walk around with anger, carry grudges, focus on our
failures, are bitter over past disappointments, and feel anguish over our own
shortcomings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe it wouldn’t be such
a bad thing to lose a few of those things after all!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe, in fact, we need to constantly remind
ourselves of what really is important, and what doesn’t matter in the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe
we should be a little quicker to push the “delete” button in our lives.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s a story of a man who lost all his investments and
money in the stock market crash of 1929.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Soon afterward his pastor paid a visit, finding the investor slumped in
his parlor obviously depressed.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I’ve lost everything,” he said to the clergy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Everything.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pastor replied:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“I’m sorry you wife has died.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“She’s not dead,” said the investor.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“She’s as devoted and loving as ever.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Well then I’m sorry something has happened to your
children.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“No, they’re fine.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They’re playing in the other room.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“And your friends have all abandoned you?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“I still have good friends who are very supportive.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The pastor concluded with this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“You haven’t lost everything.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ve only lost the least important part of
your life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The important things are
still there. Embrace them.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We can accumulate so much junk in our lives that the good
stuff gets buried.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Periodically we need
to clean things up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like my cell phone’s
internal storage, we need to sort things out before we become overloaded with
rubbish.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in this process we must
inevitably lose some of the things we cling to.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The Bible challenges us to do this.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>As Colossians 3:8 NRSV puts it:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“But
now you must get rid of all such things—anger, wrath, malice, slander, and
abusive language from your mouth.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The least important parts of our lives can interfere with
the most important parts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s take a
moment to consider what really matters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
important things are definitely worth keeping, but this summer might be a good
time to lose some of the clutter.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-13966360415968865022018-06-12T08:21:00.000-07:002018-06-12T08:21:22.767-07:00Becoming Our Parents<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdN-fQDuSHGTR_Rb6vCNJFV9IDRNhOKLNH3CNaCU3d4bX-_gRzi7X26VUM-N8rPW__A67lt4aVsPMraqJMiTfv3HOxEPH33WwaMv9AEEdXJ4WLm4upDxC829w46i_wrRwpvrb7PXxEawSi/s1600/Parent+Child.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdN-fQDuSHGTR_Rb6vCNJFV9IDRNhOKLNH3CNaCU3d4bX-_gRzi7X26VUM-N8rPW__A67lt4aVsPMraqJMiTfv3HOxEPH33WwaMv9AEEdXJ4WLm4upDxC829w46i_wrRwpvrb7PXxEawSi/s320/Parent+Child.png" width="320" /></a>There is an insurance commercial currently running which shows
a group of men and women attending a “Dad” support group.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The group is wrestling with the fact that
they’re all turning into their parents, saying things like “I text in complete
sentences”, “This hat was free, what am I suppose to do, not wear it?” “Why is
the door open, are we trying to air condition the whole neighborhood?”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One man holds up his flip phone and says,
“Why would I replace this? It’s not broken.” </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The truth is, many of us have watched with fascination and
surprise as we slowly grow to be like our parents.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We enter the cocoon of adulthood only to
emerge as butterflies suspiciously similar to the moms, dads, and guardians
before us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Young children left on their own will not survive, and
because of this nobody grows up entirely alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of us have had our lives
shaped by the people who were there to nurture us and walk us into
adulthood.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And those people leave a
lasting imprint on us, for better or worse, whether we know it or not.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re not doomed to become like those who
have gone before—especially if we suffer abuse and neglect—but if we don’t
actively resist it, we naturally and subconsciously grow in that direction. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is true of our concrete human relations, but it also
seems to be true in a spiritual sense.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We tend to grow into our image of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If we see God as cruel and judgmental, we tend to become cruel and
judgmental.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If we see God as
compassionate and forgiving, we tend to become compassionate and forgiving.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is one of the lessons we can learn from Jesus in his
Sermon on the Plain (Luke’s version of the Sermon on the Mount).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in; mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-language: BN;">"If you love those who love you, what credit is that
to you? For even sinners love those who love them. If you do good to those who
do good to you, what credit is that to you? For even sinners do the same. If
you lend to those from whom you hope to receive, what credit is that to you?
Even sinners lend to sinners, to receive as much again. But love your enemies,
do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High;
for he is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your
Father is merciful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Luke 6:32-36 NRSV)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
For Jesus, this idea that we should be kind to people
regardless of whether they’re kind to us rests on his image of God.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We should be that way because God is that
way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And being kind to all, even the
wicked, will make us “children of the Most High” because God is “kind to the
ungrateful and the wicked.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The way
Jesus saw God was reflected in his life and his teachings.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when we share Christ’s vision of God, it
will be reflected in our lives and teachings as well. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This creates something of a ripple effect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Embracing God as merciful tends to make us
merciful, which in turn tends to make our children merciful. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Children grow to be like us as we grow to be
like God.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We do have a merciful God who is kind to the ungrateful and
the wicked, it’s just that we often make the mistake of portraying God in
different ways, and this mistake can have unfortunate and long term consequences. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I wish all our women a happy Mother’s Day, and all our men a
happy Father’s Day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are blessed by many
loving parents who have grounded their lives in a loving Divine Parent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May we all build on the same foundation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yours in Christ;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-75856896992544969532018-05-23T06:59:00.001-07:002018-05-23T06:59:31.188-07:00Our Journey of Exploration<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</xml><![endif]--><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">May is a month chocked full
of special events.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not only do we have
Mother’s Day on the 13<sup>th</sup> reminding us to thank and cherish the women
who bless us in so many ways, but there’s also May Day (May 1<sup>st</sup>),
Star War’s Day (May the 4<sup>th</sup> be with you!), Cinco de Mayo (May 5<sup>th</sup>)
and Memorial Day (May 28<sup>th</sup>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And I’m sure the young people wouldn’t want me to forget about National
Clean Your Room Day on May 10<sup>th</sup>!</span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxXr9ay6YiiK_1mFr-W7dSDNxX17xLIKvdefSKe1TbZWFTbh7bVnYQK_t2eBDxfresm8xvBK-LPIhOIcaSb6bhKwVk3fK6SfdQagYGH9x5rqxSEVvV8a9CP_LirQYXCR0vTgjMtkFbfm3/s1600/Lewis_and_Clark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="398" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLxXr9ay6YiiK_1mFr-W7dSDNxX17xLIKvdefSKe1TbZWFTbh7bVnYQK_t2eBDxfresm8xvBK-LPIhOIcaSb6bhKwVk3fK6SfdQagYGH9x5rqxSEVvV8a9CP_LirQYXCR0vTgjMtkFbfm3/s320/Lewis_and_Clark.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">And then there’s May 14<sup>th</sup>,
which in 1804 marked the beginning of an important event in American
History—the Lewis and Clark Expedition.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>President Thomas Jefferson commissioned Captain Meriwether Lewis and his
friend Second Lieutenant William Clark, to lead a group in exploring and
mapping the newly acquired </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Louisiana
Purchase</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So the small group left </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">St. Louis</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> to travel 8000 miles over a period of 2 years, four
months, and 10 days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s a famous
journey, but we sometimes forget that these early explorers didn’t always have
it easy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">On at least one occasion, Lewis and Clark got
lost.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In June 1805 they
unexpectedly came upon a fork in the </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Missouri</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Since
the </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Missouri</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> was their route through the mountains, they had
to figure out which fork to take.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>After a week of investigation, and two separate expeditions, Lewis
and Clark decided to take the south fork.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Everyone else in the party disagreed with them, but Lewis and Clark
turned out to be right.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">On </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">April 29, 1805</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">, Lewis and another hunter killed a large grizzly
bear.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Grizzly bears were still largely
unknown to science.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Another grizzly
bear got some revenge on </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">June 14<sup>th</sup>, 1805</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>While
exploring the river’s edge, Lewis shot a bison and as he was waiting for
it to die, a grizzly bear snuck up on him and chased him into the river.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">The party usually lived on wild game, but when
food got scarce, they would frequently dine on dog meat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At one point the starving group was
reduced to eating horses, candles, and portable soup.</span></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">On the return trip, Lewis got a little behind in
his work when he was accidentally shot in the posterior by a member of the
team named Pierre Cruzatte.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Cruzatte was nearsighted, and mistook Lewis for an elk.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Explorers were essential in
the exploration and settling of the American Continent, and I’m not just
talking about the European settlement of the land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When the Pilgrims arrived to settle Plymouth Colony
in 1620, they were touching down on a continent already inhabited by native
people who had themselves explored and pioneered </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">America</span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt;"> 10,000 years previously!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">Explorers are essential in
the life of the church as well, and this is a good time to notice and
appreciate the explorers among us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
our hats are off to those people who have broken new ground, and led us through
uncertain times.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maple Avenue is blessed
with an unusually large number of talented and innovative people, and we
celebrate all of them!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">This is also a good time to recognize
that we live in a changing world and our whole congregation is in a real sense engaged
in a journey of exploration.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like Lewis
and Clark, we need to try different things, check out new rivers and paths, and
find untapped resources.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like them we
need to brave unexpected challenges, overcome setbacks, connecting with people
in innovative ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And like them we
will sometimes take a wrong turn or have to tighten our belts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">We are on a journey of
exploration, but we never travel alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Jesus Christ travels with us, the Holy Spirit empowers us, and God
continually calls us forward to that Kingdom of love and grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is an adventure.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There are many people in the world who like
to play it safe avoiding uncertainty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There’s nothing wrong with that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But we are explorers and pioneers, and I thank you for traveling with
us!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">In God's Peace;</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: 12.0pt;">David Rockhill</span></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-23602020216750889282018-04-05T07:38:00.000-07:002018-04-05T07:38:29.043-07:00Jesus is Dead…April Fools!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">This year we get
to witness a relatively rare event.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Easter falls on April Fool’s day!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The last time this happened was 1956, and the next time we see this
conjunction is 2029.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So for me and many
others, this is the first time we remember seeing such a thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Since Easter
celebrates the Resurrection of Christ, and April Fool’s Day celebrates
practical jokes, one might conclude that there’s not much of a connection
between the two events, even when they fall on the same day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This isn’t exactly the case, however.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many early
Christians understood the resurrection of Christ to be a practical joke disguised
as a ransom paid to the devil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As
Jonathan Burke explains:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">According
to the ransom model humanity was held under the power of the devil, until
Christ offered the devil his own life and body in exchange for those he held,
thus ransoming us by taking our place (substitution).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christ tricked the devil however, ransoming
humanity but also taking back both his life and body.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2889863556239774434#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQovFlrCAQIxElG13QRFz1regGJmAnm5_jGfEYFjYSkGussrlsN42SweLynPm0GzpO3BND_WmM1ZWuJhcrItkPeZ8EdcdGIu9oFQytm-gBqbCTJ8dZg3AmwIVd0s0zV9qDr9ygfhshyphenhyphenlKw/s1600/Laughing.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQovFlrCAQIxElG13QRFz1regGJmAnm5_jGfEYFjYSkGussrlsN42SweLynPm0GzpO3BND_WmM1ZWuJhcrItkPeZ8EdcdGIu9oFQytm-gBqbCTJ8dZg3AmwIVd0s0zV9qDr9ygfhshyphenhyphenlKw/s320/Laughing.png" width="243" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Not many modern
Christians embrace this view, as entertaining as it may be, since it involves
Christ making a shady deal with the devil.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But the idea of Satan victimized by a divine practical joke did inspire
an interesting Christian practice. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">In the 15<sup>th</sup>
century a number of churches could be found celebrating Easter by telling jokes
and encouraging people to laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
called it the “Risus Paschalis”, which is Latin for “Easter Laugh”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Easter was always a time of great joy, but
the introduction of jokes into a sermon was something many of the dower Church
Fathers would have frowned on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when
the Easter joke telling got out of hand, and the pulpit acquired an ‘R’ rating
(or far worse) the practice was condemned and discouraged.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Recently there
are a number of Christians resurrecting the practice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One group, <i>The Fellowship of Merry
Christians</i>, has been promoting a cleaned-up version of the <i>Easter Laugh</i>
since 1988.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Noting that Christians from
the earliest days to the present have seen Easter as a time of unbridled joy,
they say why not laugh!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And why not tell
jokes (clean ones)?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Jesus says, “<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Very truly, I tell you, you will weep and
mourn, but the world will rejoice; you will have pain, but your pain will turn
into joy” (John 16: 20 NRSV).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></i>If our
pain has turned into joy, who can fault us for a hearty chuckle?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">April Fool’s day
is something of a mystery, and nobody is entirely sure where the holiday came
from.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But Easter is a different
story.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For Christians, it is grounded in
the greatest upset in human history, when Jesus Christ conquered darkness and
death by rising from the grave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t
see this as a practical joke, but it does give rise to the greatest punch line
in history:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“He has risen!”</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The 4<sup>th</sup>
century Christian preacher John Chrysostom mocked the grave in an Easter sermon
with these words:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">It
received a body and encountered God.<br />
It took earth and came face-to-face with heaven.<br />
It took what it saw and fell by what it could not see.<br />
Death, where is your sting?<br />
Hades, where is your victory?<br />
<strong>Christ is risen</strong> and you are overthrown.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2889863556239774434#_ftn2" name="_ftnref2" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[2]</span></span></span></span></a><br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" />
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">So tell a funny story, go to a
Post-Easter Party, laugh.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We share an
Easter faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s not an April Fool’s
joke, but it <b>is</b> our hope, a hope that makes us now and always a joyful
people.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">David</span></div>
<div style="mso-element: footnote-list;">
<br clear="all" />
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<div id="ftn1" style="mso-element: footnote;">
<div class="MsoFootnoteText">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2889863556239774434#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a>
Jonathan Burke<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">, Crucified With Christ:
The Biblical View of Atonement</i> (LivelyStones Publishing) 10-11</div>
</div>
<div id="ftn2" style="mso-element: footnote;">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2889863556239774434#_ftnref2" name="_ftn2" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[2]</span></span></span></span></a> <a href="https://www.reformedworship.org/article/december-1999/paschal-sermon-st-john-chrysostom-4th-century-sermon-still-preached-every-east">https://www.reformedworship.org/article/december-1999/paschal-sermon-st-john-chrysostom-4th-century-sermon-still-preached-every-east</a><br />
</div>
</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-45454755142101719752018-03-02T08:12:00.000-08:002018-03-02T08:12:19.891-08:00The Non-Leap Of Faith<!--[if !mso]>
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Ken Baldwin was
twenty-eight years old, and severely depressed back in August of 1985 when he
decided to jump off the Golden Gate Bridge (According to a <a href="https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2003/10/13/jumpers" target="_blank">New Yorker</a> article).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I wanted to disappear,” he said. “So the Golden
Gate was the spot. I’d heard that the water just sweeps you
under.” Walking onto the bridge, he counted to ten, froze, counted to ten
again, and this time jumped over the side.<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2889863556239774434#_ftn1" name="_ftnref1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a></div>
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<br /></div>
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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6FNUUr2WtesrJlVmKLJZJIyUZzY2U7FdusWdDttL5SuNOUSIn2pBX-eQqVwVia6b_8NO6g2S_lNlH69ubBPLEdnGmgPHXrMyNI8zXdUcbEbha8YnK9FbQUzcd1ENhOfssm7VCBPqAPvR/s1600/271776225fe167e60505f4ea3d2809fd--golden-gate-bridge-toledo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="283" data-original-width="328" height="275" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhX6FNUUr2WtesrJlVmKLJZJIyUZzY2U7FdusWdDttL5SuNOUSIn2pBX-eQqVwVia6b_8NO6g2S_lNlH69ubBPLEdnGmgPHXrMyNI8zXdUcbEbha8YnK9FbQUzcd1ENhOfssm7VCBPqAPvR/s320/271776225fe167e60505f4ea3d2809fd--golden-gate-bridge-toledo.jpg" width="320" /></a>Baldwin is one of the few people to
jump off the bridge and survive, so we know what he was thinking at the
time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“I still see my hands coming off
the railing,” Baldwin recalls, and “I instantly realized
that everything in my life that I’d thought was unfixable was totally
fixable—except for having just jumped.”</div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
People who jump off the bridge, not surprisingly, often find
themselves suffering from “tunnel vision.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They only see their troubles, their depression, and fail to see anything
bright or hopeful in their lives.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They
focus on escaping their problems, and the edge of the bridge offers them a path
to that destination…or so they think.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>One jumper left a suicide note with the simple message:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Absolutely no reason except I have a
toothache.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The season of Lent, that period of time between Ash
Wednesday (February 14<sup>th</sup> this year) and Easter (April 1<sup>st</sup>),
is a season of introspection, and a time when we sometimes give up something
bad for us (candy, cigarettes, etc.) or start practicing something good for us
(praying regularly, exercising every morning, etc.).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Lent is a season for change, but maybe instead
of embracing superficial changes, it ought to be a season of significant shifts
in our way of living.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And what’s more significant
than a shift in attitude?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe Lent is a good time to replace our
“tunnel vision” with a wider perspective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Instead of leaping into despair, or the promise of a quick and easy
solution, we should hunker down and face life head on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t give up, but plan and dream.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t go over the edge, but courageously
resist and hold on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the Apostle Paul
advises:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Keep alert, stand firm in your
faith, be courageous, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13
NRSV).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The French dramatist and novelist, Tristan Bernard, was
arrested by Gestapo agents along with his wife, and interned at the Drancy
deportation camp.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The agents were at his
door to take them away, when Tristan turned to his weeping wife and said:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Don’t cry, we were living in fear, but from
now on we will live in hope.” This seems like an excellent idea for Lent.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe, as Ken Baldwin discovered when he jumped off the
bridge, everything in our life that we think is unfixable is totally fixable—if
we don’t leap into despair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Maybe
Tristan Bernard is right, and now is the time of hope. Maybe Paul is right and
we should stand firm with faith and courage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And maybe this Lent is a good time to take this non-leap of faith.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Yours in Christ;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
<div style="mso-element: footnote-list;">
<br clear="all" />
<hr align="left" size="1" width="33%" />
<div id="ftn1" style="mso-element: footnote;">
<div class="MsoFootnoteText">
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2889863556239774434#_ftnref1" name="_ftn1" style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1;" title=""><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="mso-special-character: footnote;"><span class="MsoFootnoteReference"><span style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;">[1]</span></span></span></span></a>
From the New Yorker's 2003 article:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u>Jumpers:
The fatal grandeur of the </u><u>Golden Gate</u><u>
</u><u>Bridge</u>, by Tad Friend:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2003/10/13/jumpers</div>
</div>
</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-67353138246235369312018-01-08T08:07:00.000-08:002018-01-08T08:31:49.778-08:00Resolving To Become More Stubborn, Close-Minded, And Obsessive!<!--[if !mso]>
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</o:shapelayout></xml><![endif]--><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8wvlgcQCz8iLU744eKTkW2DsZ5XyWUjrinLnnl1fBr0fA-XyQLLjylLfzWOE638A1qZRm4rrB6EWSbc1vMDk8HH53nn-24ayCeagau55G_27QoPsao2K3pDn751uwAqXeehIUxiQ0osk/s1600/Resolutions+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="269" data-original-width="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS8wvlgcQCz8iLU744eKTkW2DsZ5XyWUjrinLnnl1fBr0fA-XyQLLjylLfzWOE638A1qZRm4rrB6EWSbc1vMDk8HH53nn-24ayCeagau55G_27QoPsao2K3pDn751uwAqXeehIUxiQ0osk/s1600/Resolutions+2.jpg" /></a>After years of making
New Years resolutions that always seem to melt away with the snow of winter,
maybe I’ll try something different this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>How about this:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For 2018 I resolve
to become more stubborn, close-minded, and obsessive!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After all, I already have some talent in
these areas, plenty of experience, and I might as well build on my
strengths.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Besides, these aren’t
necessarily bad qualities; it’s just that we typically practice them in bad
ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In fact, I invite you to join me
in these resolutions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Together we can
make 2018 a year of stubbornly close-minded obsessiveness.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here’s what I mean.
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<b>Let’s be stubborn, but in the
right way.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we have a conflict
with another person, let’s stubbornly forgive and refuse to hold a grudge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s be stubborn about resolving the
conflict in healthy ways.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When we have
an illness, or find ourselves facing a stressful ordeal, let’s be stubborn
about fighting the illness and working through the ordeal with courage,
compassion, and determination.
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<b>Let’s be close-minded, but in
the right way.</b><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When life refuses to
live up to our expectations, let’s not be close-minded about the evidence.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead, let’s be close-minded in our refusal
to become unloving, or disrespectfully.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s
be close-minded about listening to thee evidence and not our desires.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Instead of being close-mindedly inflexible,
let’s be close-minded about learning and growing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<b>Let’s be obsessive, but in the
right way.</b> How easy it is to be obsessed with unimportant things, like the
dust in our house, while completely ignoring larger issues like the dust
gathering in our important relationships.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So let’s be obsessed with maintaining healthy relationships!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And instead of obsessing over buying that new
TV, car, or house, let’s obsess over spending our resources on things that
would make our world a better place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">
<br /></div>
Jesus invites us to <i><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11.5pt;">“…strive first for the </span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11.5pt;">kingdom</span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11.5pt;"> of </span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11.5pt;">God</span></i><i><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11.5pt;"> and his righteousness…”</span></i><span style="color: black; font-family: "georgia"; font-size: 11.5pt;"> (Matthew 6:33a NRSV).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span>With the arrival of 2018, we have an
entire year ahead of us to do this very thing, while at the same time perfecting
those qualities in which we already excel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Let’s make a New Years Resolution to work together in stubbornly, close-mindedly,
and obsessively striving first for God’s Kingdom!
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: .25in;">
<br /></div>
Yours in Christ;<br />
David Rockhill
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-90190241797251832192017-12-01T07:20:00.000-08:002017-12-01T07:20:43.363-08:00Good News of Great Joy<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
Cleaning out the thousands of pieces of junk mail that had
accumulated in my email inbox (I’m not exaggerating here) I ran across several
recent emails that I had ignored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of
them brought good news of great joy.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWac1NzDUO-ScOvGkftFftJTXVrgQ_71nSemolBfYAWs7fN96rCoLptoS1SZlAcydZrR9JMoecVG5yjkZTBBsQDxQcj3LgyDmbzcQqPrl_Poged1b_yQF_Byvl7KX_0GyvnCUR3tH9zrHr/s1600/Good+News.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Good News" border="0" data-original-height="275" data-original-width="490" height="179" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWac1NzDUO-ScOvGkftFftJTXVrgQ_71nSemolBfYAWs7fN96rCoLptoS1SZlAcydZrR9JMoecVG5yjkZTBBsQDxQcj3LgyDmbzcQqPrl_Poged1b_yQF_Byvl7KX_0GyvnCUR3tH9zrHr/s320/Good+News.jpg" title="Good News" width="320" /></a>There was an email from my “sister in Christ” who I’ve never
met, Doris Tamo, who’s husband died leaving her with $2.5 million dollars in a
lock box.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She’s been diagnosed with
cancer, and would like to donate that money to a church or individual.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Of course, she wants to give it to us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Then there is an email from Miss Leticia Koulibaly who’s
husband was poisoned by her "wicked uncle" (her words).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Miss Leticia has $6.5 Million dollars that this wicked uncle would like
to get his hands on, and to keep this from happening she would like to give it
to me or our congregation!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition, I have an email from Mr. George Culmer, “A
Banker From Lloyds Banking Group United Kingdom”.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He’s sitting on a whopping $100 million
dollars US, and would like to transfer this money into our country.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For this he needs my help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In return, he will split the money
fifty-fifty with me or the church! All he needs is information to access my
bank account.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And if this isn’t enough, Mr.Ahmed Edelbore “The Chairman,
Contract Awarding Committee of the ECONOMIC COMMUNITY OF WEST AFRICAN STATES”
has $6 million dollars he would like to transfer into my bank account (or the
church’s), and Miss Anna Paul, a young woman in Abidjan (wherever that is) needs my help getting
$5.5 million into the US, keeping her evil relatives from getting their hands
on it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
All in all, either I or our congregation should be receiving over
$70 million dollars in the near future!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of
course, these are all scams, and if pursued the scammers will take you for all
they can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not all “good news” is real
news. Real good news actually pans out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Authentic good news changes things for the
better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At it’s best, real good news
brings truth and love to a dishonest and mean world.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Christmas is a time to celebrate the real good news of the
birth of Christ.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And how do we know that
this good news is genuine good news?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because it has all the genuine side effects.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The good news of Christmas is actually good
news because it makes us a better, more loving people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Luke 2:10-11 NRSV<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid; for see—I am
bringing you good news of great joy for all the people:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to you is born this day in the city of David
a Savior, who is the Messiah, the Lord.</i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We may not be getting that $70 million dollars, but we have
something even more valuable than the false promises found in my inbox.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have the good news of Jesus Christ!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A gift that makes us, and our world,
better.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A gift that never fades.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>A gift that we need to unwrap and share, this
and every Christmas.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Merry Christmas!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-42500896240745690542017-10-31T11:25:00.000-07:002017-10-31T11:25:10.266-07:00Visit the Holy Land With Me!<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheB-5qOa-fAv6795I-rlVuG-BZhEd0lFakil69m64ostAvTB7Plrudmm3s-dWP0qVeXMKauhMUO698ccFLAe1af4i3JdmNwbGzke1u9ndRKhAY5JhYhsHZQH5N7-FNZ9I6Zogkv86dRfj3/s1600/Vigo+County.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheB-5qOa-fAv6795I-rlVuG-BZhEd0lFakil69m64ostAvTB7Plrudmm3s-dWP0qVeXMKauhMUO698ccFLAe1af4i3JdmNwbGzke1u9ndRKhAY5JhYhsHZQH5N7-FNZ9I6Zogkv86dRfj3/s320/Vigo+County.jpg" width="320" /></a>We celebrated a baptism a couple weeks back at Maple Avenue,
and whenever I baptize someone I always add a few drops of water to the baptismal
water taken from the River Jordan—the place where Jesus himself was
baptized.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My parents visited there some
years back and brought me a large plastic bottle full of water and while my Jordan
River supply is starting to run low, I have enough for quite a few
more baptisms if needed!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There is something special and sacred about the Holy
Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>New pastors in our
conference are strongly encouraged to visit there with the Bishop, and many of
my friends and colleagues have gone and returned to talk about how meaningful
their visit was. I believe it can be a good experience, and if you have the
chance to go why not do it?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Still, I’ve never been there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>At least I’ve never been to the Middle
East, or Jerusalem, or
any of the cities visited by Paul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
in a sense, I believe I have been<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>to all these places. And so have you.<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In his book <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Passion
for Pilgrimage: Notes for the Journey Home, </i>the author<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"> </i>Alan Jones tells of the abbot of the Coptic Monastery of St.
Macarius in the Egyptian desert.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The
abbot, who lived with the other monks in desert caves, was asked if he intended
to make a pilgrimage to the Holy Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The abbot replied that he had no need to go
there.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
“Jerusalem,
the Holy, is right here, in and around these caves; for what else is my cave
but the place where my savior Christ was born; what else is my cave but the place
where he most gloriously rose again from the dead.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jerusalem
is here, right here; and all the spiritual riches of the holy city are found in
this wadi.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jones adds that another monk said “The monk’s cell is the
furnace of Babylon, in which the
three children found the Son of God; it is the pillar of cloud from which God
spoke to Moses.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
These monks had discovered something marvelous:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>the Holy Land is
wherever you happen to be, if you only have the faith to see it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We don’t have to travel great distances to
experience the reality of the stories told in the Bible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We can experience them in our lives here and
now, whoever we are and wherever we happen to be.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
An old man who loved the Bible was growing weak, and sensing
that his end was near told his family that his dream was to die and be buried
in the Holy Land, like so many of his heroes.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>So the family flew him to Jerusalem,
got him a room, and then joined him to await his death.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But in these new surroundings, he grew stronger,
and eventually began to flourish!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So he
called his family to his side and insisted that they must immediately fly him
back to the states.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“But why?” they asked him.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>“You said you always wanted to die in the Holy Land
and be buried there.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“Dying in the Holy Land fine,” said the
man, “but who wants to live there?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In reality, we all live and die in the Holy Land,
regardless of the name of our city or town.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s a matter of perspective and awareness.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This Thanksgiving let’s open our eyes to the presence of
Jesus Christ all around us, here in Terre Haute,
and wherever we may be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is our Holy
Land.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This is where God
Kingdom is breaking in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we don’t have to travel any farther than
our front door to be can be part of it.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Your fellow pilgrim;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-80416981617492210702017-08-01T00:00:00.000-07:002017-08-02T07:07:33.811-07:00Relax<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho564TeFfNa_uLSbsZpdcKvOB5I4XNHxG8DsDmdX7WEg-u334LrEXw93vLGSUlis-_GRm5c8JjTwHJt5RTwt31BNssRaMJkpeEFtyb3eomEJ5r7qmJ89yNlzyGtgebhWFhlbWCgacNc2qp/s1600/Road+Rage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Road Rage" border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho564TeFfNa_uLSbsZpdcKvOB5I4XNHxG8DsDmdX7WEg-u334LrEXw93vLGSUlis-_GRm5c8JjTwHJt5RTwt31BNssRaMJkpeEFtyb3eomEJ5r7qmJ89yNlzyGtgebhWFhlbWCgacNc2qp/s320/Road+Rage.jpg" title="Road Rage" width="320" /></a>I was surprised to read about a man in Kosciusko
County recently sentenced to 23
years in prison for a road rage incident that took place in 2016.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That seemed like a steep punishment to me,
until I read the article.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The perpetrator,
irritated at another driver, fired a gun at that driver and then rammed his car
several times sending it off the road.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>When the County Sheriff’s
Officer attempted to intercept him, he sideswiped the officer causing his
airbags to deploy and knocking the officer unconscious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When another officer arrived, the angry
driver used his truck to repeatedly ram the police cruiser.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The renegade driver was finally subdued and
taken into custody, but about a month later, he saw one of the original victims
driving with his wife and after attempting to hit them “head on” was arrested
again. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Clearly someone has an anger management
problem.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maybe it’s my imagination, but lately, here in Terre
Haute, I’ve seen more incidents of angry drivers then
usual…honking, rudely waving, yelling, etc. Just yesterday, for example, I
witnessed such an incident on 3<sup>rd</sup> street,
and even though it didn’t involve me, I felt sorry for the hapless driver who
irritated a speeding and accelerating driver by pulling onto the road in front
of him at a sane speed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The speeding
driver wasn’t shy about letting his displeasure out.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So many people seem to be walking around full of anger,
looking for any excuse to erupt.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like
pressure cookers ready to explode, all it takes is a small crack on the surface
to get a destructive blast, and crackpots like this are all over the place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And this is in spite of the fact that most of
us really have very little to be angry about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Unlike many people in history, we don’t have to work bone-crushing jobs
that grind us down and kill us before we reach forty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have food to eat, clothes to wear, roofs
over our heads, family and friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
yet, our discontent runs amok.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Since summer time is that season when many people take
vacations, I’d like to offer a suggestion here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Let’s take a vacation from unwarranted anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you hang around discontented people all the time, you
will become discontented.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or crazy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Or both.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The discontented tend to become angry, and we need to take a vacation
from anger.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you constantly relive the wrong’s you’ve endured, both
imaginary and real, you will end up carrying a load of resentment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Resentful people become angry, and we need to
take a vacation from anger.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If you fill your life with anxiety and never take a moment
to unwind, you will become anxious.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Anxious
people become angry, and we need to take a vacation from anger.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There’s no way to avoid discontent, resentment, or anxiety.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But we don’t have to cultivate these things
until they produce a harvest of rage.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Relax.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s summer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Take a vacation…from anger.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And one
more thing:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>when you’re on the road, please
try to be nice.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Peace;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-4614548201764486052017-06-29T08:25:00.001-07:002017-06-29T08:25:29.297-07:00A Lion’s Share of Potential<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In 1994, when the animated movie <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Lion King</i> was released, many at Disney Studios were not
counting on it being much of a hit. For one thing, it was their first feature
length animated film based on an original story (although it very loosely draws
on Hamlet), and nobody was sure if this lack of public familiarity would be
readily accepted.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So, according to
<a href="http://mentalfloss.com/article/57386/30-facts-about-lion-king" target="_blank">Mental Floss</a> the movie was actually made by the “B-Team” animators since the “A-Team”
elected to work on a film with more potential:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span></span><i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pocahontas</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"> (1995).</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jJIOBZ0BIzqJYva6A1m52I08VHWcLrwoRu0XQtIE4mXneqF0QHBo1waMQDTcrSdZdWPKCM1XwNSH8oMf8MwHy_fjGLR9OyP6DkIEzN7bkkKkRDg0vHg0t7_fsIsYDBdRueUUMPDnuamp/s1600/King_of_Beasts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7jJIOBZ0BIzqJYva6A1m52I08VHWcLrwoRu0XQtIE4mXneqF0QHBo1waMQDTcrSdZdWPKCM1XwNSH8oMf8MwHy_fjGLR9OyP6DkIEzN7bkkKkRDg0vHg0t7_fsIsYDBdRueUUMPDnuamp/s320/King_of_Beasts.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><i>The Lion King</i>,, however, soon became king of the box
office, and even today it is the highest grossing hand drawn animated film in
history.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Until <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Frozen</i> came along, it was the highest grossing animated film
ever.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It seems that nobody realized just
how much potential a movie like this could have, and this is interesting, since
<i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">The Lion King</i> is all about
potential.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Specifically it’s about Simba
the lion cub growing up to realize and embrace his potential to lead his people,
and then standing up to the dark side, and restoring balance to the force.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">(Well, maybe I have confused this last bit with another
movie but after all, James Earl Jones, the voice of Simba’s father Mufasa was
also the voice of Darth Vader, and both Mufasa and Vader did appear to their
sons after they had died.)<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This tendency to miss potential is not a new thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You find it all through the Bible.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Few people realized the shepherd boy David
had the potential to become king of Israel.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Who knew that Jesus, crucified would be Christ risen?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As the New Testament describes this turn of
events, “The stone that the builders rejected has become the very head of the
corner."<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most people wouldn’t have
guessed that Peter, an ordinary fisherman, and Paul, a persecutor of
Christians, would both become leaders in the faith as it swept the world.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is potential all over the place that
only God can see.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The <i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Lion King</i> took
off, netting Disney a billion dollars in merchandising its first year alone,
and it has shaped the lives of the many children who grew up watching it with
the tune to “Hakuna Matata” stuck in their heads.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Nobody realized the potential of such a movie
about potential.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The movie had so much potential it grew into a hit Broadway
musical, which eventually was adapted for young people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And now here in </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Terre
Haute</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> a group of talented young actors are
playing the roles and singing the songs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>They have worked hard on this production, and I think you’ll agree that
it shows.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And if you look closely at
them as they’re on the stage you’ll see something that some folk are good at
missing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You’ll see potential all over
the place.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>They have amazing potential,
and knowing them gives me a sense of confidence and pride.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you feel the same way.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">So in a show about potential, a show in which everyone
missed it’s potential, there is a stage full of potential.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And maybe there is also an audience full of
potential, all taking place through a congregation full of potential.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The potential is there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s filling the streets of </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Terre
Haute</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
even in you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>May God breathe it into
life, and may we never stop striving to reach it.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In God’s Peace;</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">David</span></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-8597717735055534152017-06-13T08:11:00.001-07:002017-06-13T08:11:48.451-07:00Tourist Trappings<!--[if !mso]>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
As many of
you know, after Patsy recently had cataract surgery on both her eyes, we took
two weeks off for a get-away/recovery vacation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>First of all, a word of thanks to everyone who filled in for me while
gone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Patsy’s eyes are doing great, and
we had a good vacation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWP17QXo0BXZQ_oSfF4Qp1lagsAH8PqEXMgakJirI1FVehtq3w8kF3LAuzCG757zQbauZuVlM2W6pZNoUcXa3ZudrxuAA-10UVScTA7l9DrVzUZUG5B5h5118bIJzS60rzKgP57XbE2HCv/s1600/Blog+01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWP17QXo0BXZQ_oSfF4Qp1lagsAH8PqEXMgakJirI1FVehtq3w8kF3LAuzCG757zQbauZuVlM2W6pZNoUcXa3ZudrxuAA-10UVScTA7l9DrVzUZUG5B5h5118bIJzS60rzKgP57XbE2HCv/s320/Blog+01.jpg" width="320" /></a>One of the places we
spent time was Lexington, Kentucky
where, like most of Kentucky,
people are quite fond of horses.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In
fact, you see horses everywhere, grazing in the country side, decorating the streets
in statues, billboards and other works of art. They even have a Thoroughbred
Park near the middle of town,
commemorating the stars of horse-racing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We’re not really into horses, or horse-racing, but we had to visit the
park, look around, read the plaques, and take pictures.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were tourists, and that’s what tourist’s
do, all of which made me think about the qualities of being a good
tourist.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When you’re
a tourist you tend to look at life differently.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Of course, there are plenty of bad tourists around, people who act like
jerks, and expect the world to cater to their every whim.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But I think there are some qualities shared
by good tourists, and here are a few of them.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When you’re
a good tourist everything is viewed with wonder and curiosity.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want to meet new people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You want to taste new kinds of food.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You don’t travel to Kentucky
to have a Big Mac, but you do want to catch some of their barbeque.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
At home you
can get sucked into routines, but for a good tourist every day is a potential
adventure, and every day is welcomed with joy and expectation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
When you’re a
homeowner you can do whatever you want with your house:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>paint it pink and purple if you desire.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when you’re a tourist, you know that the
locations you visit, and the places you stay, don’t really belong to you and
you need to treat them with respect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You
don’t trash your hotel room because it isn’t really yours, and others will be
living there after you leave.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I know some
people would rather sit at home and watch TV, but sometimes you have to welcome
life as a tourist, and that’s what Christians really are anyhow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As 1 Peter reminds us:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in; margin-left: .5in; margin-right: 0in; margin-top: 0in;">
Friends, this world is not your home,
so don't make yourselves cozy in it. Don't indulge your ego at the expense of
your soul.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(1 Peter 2:11 MSG)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
The world is
not our home and it doesn’t belong to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>It’s not our prison either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It’s
a beautiful gift that we need to respect and care for, because we’re only
passing through like tourists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like
tourists, we’re here to meet new people, come to know them and appreciate
them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like tourists we need to cherish our
world and treat it with respect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like
tourists we need to greet each day as a potential adventure to be welcomed with
joy and expectation.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
I’m back in Terre
Haute now, but I’m not really home. Neither are
you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re traveling together as
tourists.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Let’s be good ones.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
Yours in
Christ;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
David</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<br /></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-3019630338866064332017-06-13T07:31:00.003-07:002017-06-13T07:31:32.051-07:00Against All Odds<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<i><span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Georgia; mso-bidi-language: BN;">John 1:5
NRSV<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The light shines in the darkness,
and the darkness did not overcome it.</span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-layout-grid-align: none; text-autospace: none;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Back in 1990 the Hubble Space Telescope was launched and
placed in a low orbit around the earth.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>From space, the telescope had a terrific view of the cosmos,
unobstructed by atmosphere or weather.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And what the telescope has found has defied almost everyone’s
expectations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For example, in 1995 the
telescope was pointed at what appeared to be an empty region of Ursa Major
(what we call the “Big Dipper”) and from this small point it collected 10 days
worth of observations.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What Hubble found
in this empty dark spot were 3,000 faint galaxies!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of this in a single small frame that
looked empty.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Believe it or not,
scientists now estimate that there are 100 to 200 billion galaxies in our
universe. Now remember, we’re talking about galaxies, not stars. If you
consider that each galaxy contains billions of stars (our Milky Way Galaxy has
around 100 billion stars) then you’ll soon see that our universe is
unimaginably large, and has an incredible number of galaxies which in turn are
home to an inconceivable number of stars.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And since we’ve been able to confirm that many stars, if not most, are
circled by planets… well, you’re left with a Cosmos billions of billions of
times bigger than anyone ever imagined.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this vast cosmos of brilliant heat and empty cold there are
plenty of new mysteries that we’ve uncovered, and plenty of things beyond our
understanding.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But one thing has become apparent.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life is a rare and precious thing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In this entire universe, our small planet is the only place
where we can confirm the existence of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Those conditions that make it possible for you to read this newsletter
don’t exist anywhere else that we’re aware of!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Of course, there probably are other planets that could support
life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But those planets, and life itself,
is clearly a rare and precious thing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
the more we learn about the universe the more we become aware of how amazing it
is that we are here at all. Against all odds, we exist infused with a little piece
of God, and conscious of how unlikely it is that we should be here thinking
about such things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Life is amazing.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Easter is a celebration of life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What happens when the life and warmth of God
are apparently overcome by the cold indifference of the cosmos?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What happens when goodness and grace are
nailed to a cross, and entombed in a cave?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>What happens when the light seems to be extinguished by the forces of
darkness?</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The resurrection of Jesus Christ happens.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Easter is the churches affirmation that life, by the power
of a living God, and through the example of Christ, triumphs in the end.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are more than conquerors through the one
who loves us.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It’s utterly amazing, but true.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In a dangerous cosmos and against all odds,
life has risen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Surrounded by darkness
and evil, Christ has risen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in the
face of tragedy and death, you and I are risen! <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Celebrate and rejoice, and give thanks to God
who’s light and life shine in the darkness – and in us – through Jesus Christ!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In God's Peace;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David </div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-1717325489635696082017-06-13T07:27:00.001-07:002017-06-13T07:27:19.838-07:00He Has Risen and We Are Rising<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
This past March, the Carnegie Hero Fund Commission announced
the 20 people who were receiving their Carnegie Hero Fund Award (<a href="http://www.carnegiehero.org/">http://www.carnegiehero.org/</a>).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>This award is given every year to
“individuals in the United States and Canada who risk their lives to an
extraordinary degree saving or attempting to save the lives of others.”<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In looking through the list I was struck by
how often ordinary people, when thrust into special circumstance, are able to
do extraordinary things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Take, for
example, one of the award recipients, Madison L. Williams from Dublin, OH.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Here is the description of her service from
the press release:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
Madison L. Williams saved a boy
from drowning, Dublin, Ohio, August 27, 2016.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A 2-year-old boy fell through the small, ground-level hatch of an
underground septic tank on a residential property and submerged in sewage about
4 feet deep.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Neighbors who responded to
the scene could not reach him in the 8-foot-deep tank.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Alerted to the situation by her mother,
Madison, 13, student, lay on her stomach and, positioning her arms over her
head, entered the 12-inch-wide opening to her thighs while others secured her
by the legs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She skimmed the surface of
the sewage with her hands searching for the boy for several moments before she
saw his foot.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Madison grasped the boy’s
foot and shouted at the others to be pulled out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As she and the boy were being lifted from the
tank, the boy’s free foot became stuck under the inside lip of the hatch.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On Madison’s instruction, she was lowered
somewhat and was able to reposition the boy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Those on the ground then pulled her and the boy completely free of the
opening.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The boy was not breathing but
was then revived, and he fully recovered after hospital treatment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Madison required medical treatment for damage
to her left wrist that required a brace for two months and physical
therapy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>She too fully recovered.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(http://www.carnegiehero.org/madison-l-williams/)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
There are times in life when we find ourselves thrust into
special circumstances, and we end up doing things we never would have imagined.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Who wants to be lowered into a septic tank
through a 12 inch hole while being held by the legs?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when a child was in danger, Madison gave
herself in this service.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is reminiscent of the situation faced by the followers
of Jesus.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>After Jesus was crucified,
buried, and rose from the grave, the 12 Apostles were suddenly thrust into a
difficult situation.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Before this, the
Gospels often portray them as being a bit dense, often misunderstanding Jesus, and
coming across as being very ordinary.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>When
Jesus was crucified, they all let him down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But after the Resurrection they stepped up their game, rising to the occasion.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In the shadow of the risen Christ they grew
into extraordinary leaders.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Maple Avenue has a history of being served by individuals
who are willing to step forward when needed, and offer themselves for
others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have sent many people
overseas to serve in World War 1, and World War 2, and every conflict
since.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And we are proud and grateful to
the people who helm various committees and ministries, and who give
sacrificially. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many have already served above and beyond, and a sincere
“thank you” to all these people.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But
what about you?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I invite you to
prayerfully consider the needs of the present, and how God is calling you to
live your faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And to inspire your
thoughts, I’d like to mention a few areas where we could use additional help.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You might be just the person God is lifting
up for the challenge!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our rummage sale is coming up, and we have had a record
number of donations this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our
Fellowship Center is stuffed with items which will go on sale May 5 &
6.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We could use some extra help
organizing and pricing items, and then cleaning up.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Would you like to be involved in this?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk to me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
We could use some additional ushers and greeters to welcome
visitors and guests as they arrive on Sunday morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’ve had many new people check out or church
in recent weeks, and we want everyone who walks through our door to be well
cared for.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Are you friendly and
personable?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk to me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In addition, we have our usual events just around the
corner:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our summer Musical, our Block
Party, our Worship Service at Collett Park.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The people who help with these things are very committed, but could it
be that God is calling you to lend a hand?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>If so, talk to me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Is there a ministry, or a need, that God has placed on your
heart?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Somewhere you feel called to give
time and energy?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Is there a service or a
talent you have to share?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Talk to me.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Easter is over, but the story isn’t.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It continues now in you and me.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christ has risen, and by his power we are
rising to the occasion.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
In God’s Peace;</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-10559348814391581012017-01-18T12:22:00.000-08:002017-01-18T12:22:29.113-08:00Things Can Be Repaired<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Today (December 27) I was returning home for lunch, and had
pulled partway into the garage when I remembered that I had forgotten to pick
up the lunch meat for my sandwich.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So I
threw the car in reverse, quickly backed out, and before I knew it my front
bumper was dragging the ground!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It had
caught on the edge of the garage, and pulled almost entirely off, dangling by a
couple screws on the driver’s side.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Hmmm.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9iNJtZ1DIOBl_9xPewdZObXJLMrNQe36RCpwMETGjnSSIsPQmPiqE2OJOOt6uNGLX1f6gcG__CGsshfo4kAF1B1XPDe1CRKWU5Z_FhUdVarwxxlSW-_qaS-F1kSQ2c1dClJNM75Va9jwH/s1600/Car+Hurt.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9iNJtZ1DIOBl_9xPewdZObXJLMrNQe36RCpwMETGjnSSIsPQmPiqE2OJOOt6uNGLX1f6gcG__CGsshfo4kAF1B1XPDe1CRKWU5Z_FhUdVarwxxlSW-_qaS-F1kSQ2c1dClJNM75Va9jwH/s320/Car+Hurt.png" width="320" /></a>It’s amazing what a moment of carelessness can accomplish if
you don’t put your mind to it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There was
only minor damage to the garage door, but the car looked pitiful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So after talking to the body shop, getting an
estimate, they gave me the good news.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The car can be repaired!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I can’t repair the car by my own efforts.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t have the skills, or the
knowledge.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But there is a place I can
take it where it can get the care it needs.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>There is someone there who can repair it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Bad things happen.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Sometimes they happen because we’re careless,
and sometimes they happen regardless of precautions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And sometimes we need to visit the repair
shop.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But things can be repaired!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I’m not necessarily talking about cars here.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>People are the same way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We make messes of our lives, encounter
brokenness in our relationships, and lose our way.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And frequently, we don’t have the skills or
the knowledge to repair our lives by ourselves.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>But things can be repaired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And
church is a place we can go where this can happen.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This past year, 2016, has not been one of my favorite years.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Our congregation has lost some good people,
and we face difficult challenges as we enter the coming year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But the start of a new year should be a time
of hope for all people of faith.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We have
nothing to deal with that, by the power of God, is beyond repair.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jesus
Christ can and does make us whole, and his ability to repair lives is one of
the things that proves who he really is.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
Now when Jesus had finished
instructing his twelve disciples, he went on from there to teach and proclaim
his message in their cities.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><sup>2</sup>When
John heard in prison what the Messiah was doing, he sent word by his
disciples<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><sup>3</sup>and said to him,
"Are you the one who is to come, or are we to wait for another?"<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><sup>4</sup>Jesus answered them, "Go and
tell John what you hear and see:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><sup>5</sup>the
blind receive their sight, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf
hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have good news brought to them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><sup>6</sup>And blessed is anyone who takes
no offense at me." (Matthew 11:1-6 NRSV)</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Jesus still makes us whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>This year I hope you will commit yourself to visiting the repair shop
that is Maple Avenue
United Methodist
Church, invite your friends and
neighbors, and together we’ll allow Jesus to prove himself once more.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
However 2017 unfolds, I have this hope.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Regardless of the bumps and dents in our
lives, things can be repaired.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
God Bless You This New Year!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
David Rockhill</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-51487162048163351862016-12-02T07:04:00.000-08:002016-12-02T07:04:02.756-08:00Happy Holidays<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">It’s interesting that in the country of Singapore, Christmas
is a big deal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Christmas shopping
accounts for half of the country’s annual retail sales.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Shopping malls turn into extravagant theme
parks while traditional hymns play over the loud speakers everywhere.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What’s surprising about this, however, is
that while most of the people there enthusiastically embrace the holiday, only
about 13 percent of the population are Christians.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the citizens love the holiday without
embracing all of its religious themes.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qHoSG-jelgsWkQdjvEBlHC1mn4kL5Ga8Ehyd8YAkHJ8kNv3DBjM0j2CDACjzcth-zz5ut1Fn0vSXh5mLHGEqaGMH01I2H-6VTAYvaThhyphenhyphenu6hwhpdMX2vVeR2jPI1-Fa24JEzliBD1xyL/s1600/happy-holidays-greeting-14470407458Ey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5qHoSG-jelgsWkQdjvEBlHC1mn4kL5Ga8Ehyd8YAkHJ8kNv3DBjM0j2CDACjzcth-zz5ut1Fn0vSXh5mLHGEqaGMH01I2H-6VTAYvaThhyphenhyphenu6hwhpdMX2vVeR2jPI1-Fa24JEzliBD1xyL/s320/happy-holidays-greeting-14470407458Ey.jpg" width="320" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Now some Christians might be bothered by this, but I’m not
one of them.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I don’t have a problem with non-Christians
embracing the holiday, just as I don’t have a problem with non-Christians <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">not</i></b>
embracing the holiday.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And by the same
token, I don’t have a problem with Christians who celebrate Christmas, and
Christians who <b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">don’t</i></b> celebrate Christmas.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And yes, there are Christians who refuse to celebrate Christmas.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">There is actually a long tradition of Christian opposition
to the Christmas season.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of us are
just starting to burn off some of the calories we consumed over Thanksgiving, a
holiday whose origin we trace back to the pilgrims; but pilgrims refused to
celebrate Christmas and Easter!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>According the history site, Mayflowerhistory.com: </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">They believed that these
holidays were invented by man to memorialize Jesus, and are not prescribed by
the Bible or celebrated by the early Christian churches, and therefore cannot
be considered Holy days. "It seems too much for any mortal man to appoint,
or make an anniversary memorial [for Christ]," taught the Pilgrims' pastor
John Robinson. (<a href="http://mayflowerhistory.com/religion/">http://mayflowerhistory.com/religion/</a>)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">The Puritans, for years, tried to outlaw the holiday, and even
today Jehovah’s Witnesses, Seventh Day Adventists, some Church of Christ folk,
and some Baptists, refuse to celebrate Christmas for many reasons including its alleged (and
likely) pagan roots.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And as many
scholars point out, nobody has the faintest idea when Christ was really born
since the Bible and early Christians never mentioned a date or time of year.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">But I don’t believe any of this matters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hold to the Apostle Paul’s view regarding
this issue.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In Paul’s day there were Jewish
Christians who had a whole slew of holidays the Gentile Christians were
ignoring (like Hanukah), and the Gentile Christians observed some days the Jewish Christians
ignored.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each side thought the other was
wrong.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So Paul settled their argument with
these strong words:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Who are you to pass judgment on
servants of another? It is before their own lord that they stand or fall. And
they will be upheld, for the Lord is able to make them stand. Some judge one
day to be better than another, while others judge all days to be alike. Let all
be fully convinced in their own minds. Those who observe the day, observe it in
honor of the Lord. Also those who eat, eat in honor of the Lord, since they
give thanks to God; while those who abstain, abstain in honor of the Lord and
give thanks to God. We do not live to ourselves, and we do not die to ourselves.
If we live, we live to the Lord, and if we die, we die to the Lord; so then,
whether we live or whether we die, we are the Lord's.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(Romans 14:4-8 NRSV)</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">In other words, stop picking on one another just because you
don’t observe the same holidays in the same ways, and do what you do for the
glory of the Lord.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I love Christmas, and I’m going to celebrate the turkey
stuffing out of it!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You do what you
think right. But from my perspective, celebrating the birthday of the Prince of
Peace is the perfect opportunity for me to embrace those around me with
kindness and respect.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Even, or
especially, those who see things differently.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">So whatever your traditions, however you celebrate, I wish
you a holiday full of blessings and grace.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And in that vein I’m going to offer you a greeting that has, in some
circles, become controversial.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Happy Holidays</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">David</span></div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2889863556239774434.post-19761316400482261802016-10-31T13:26:00.000-07:002016-10-31T13:26:00.681-07:00A Second Helping Of Thanksgiving<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Many Americans don’t know this, but the first recorded thanksgiving
celebration in North America took place forty-three
years <b><i>before</i></b> the pilgrims landed on Plymouth Rock, and was
observed by Martin Frobisher, an English pirate/explorer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>He was trying unsuccessfully to find a
passage to China
and India, and
after leaving England
with three small ships, encountered storms and ice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>One ship was lost, another abandoned, and
when they finally arrived safely on land in what is now Newfoundland,
Canada, he was
glad to be alive.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So on May 27, 1578, Frobisher and his crew had
a celebration of thanksgiving for their safe arrival.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx-27IW_4c7YvhRPzSZb3eTUFgNr9kLOJ3R9WrX5zsLJUWtv21jUyyzLlkz5NRgizwkqq3-Tem_J5m6YSIRdKGlH0W0g0B0pqla1B8cSXFooFUKRxzooQHOxGbGNdKgvUjJZEKszULXZNp/s1600/Two+Turkey+Dinners.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgx-27IW_4c7YvhRPzSZb3eTUFgNr9kLOJ3R9WrX5zsLJUWtv21jUyyzLlkz5NRgizwkqq3-Tem_J5m6YSIRdKGlH0W0g0B0pqla1B8cSXFooFUKRxzooQHOxGbGNdKgvUjJZEKszULXZNp/s400/Two+Turkey+Dinners.png" /></a>Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving much like Americans, but
they have their holiday the second Monday in October, which this year was on October
10<sup>th</sup>.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And since we were on
vacation in Newfoundland on this
day, I’m writing this article as one who has already celebrated Thanksgiving
once this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>On November 24<sup>th</sup>
when most other Americans will celebrate the holiday for the first time in 2016 Patsy and I <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>will be celebrating it
for a second time!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Like Frobisher’s search for India,
our Canadian Thanksgiving didn’t go as planned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The week before, we had passed a church in Clarenville,
Newfoundland, that was putting up a
sign:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thanksgiving Turkey meal, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.”, and we thought that since
we’d be back in the area on the Canadian Thanksgiving Day, we’d drop in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We were looking forward to celebrating with
other Canadian Church Folk, and enjoying the turkey and whatever else Canadians
eat for the holiday (poutine, maybe?).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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But Thanksgiving Day in Newfoundland
didn’t go as planned.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Hurricane Matthew
hit the island, and it rained all day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>We made it to the Clarenville area just fine, even though we were
stranded there because the only road crossing Newfoundland
washed out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Still, we were looking
forward to the 5 p.m. Thanksgiving
Turkey Dinner.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But when we pulled into the
church parking lot, no one was there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
apparently hadn’t stayed long enough for the entire sign to be erected.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It actually read:<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“Thanksgiving Turkey Meal, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., <i>on October 19<sup>th</sup>”.</i>
The dinner wasn’t for another week!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So
we had to find a restaurant open on a holiday and like much of life, we had to resign
ourselves to things not going as planned.</div>
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But we still had a great time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We still were thankful.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I think that’s what Thanksgiving is
really about.</div>
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We’re not thankful because our life flows smoothly, we’ve
got lots of good things, and a feast sits on the table.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re thankful regardless of the storms of
life, our possessions, and our food. Gratitude is an attitude, and thankfulness
flows from our heart, not our circumstances.</div>
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Habakkuk knew this when he wrote: <i>Though the fig tree does not blossom, and no fruit is on
the vines; though the produce of the olive fails, and the fields yield no food;
though the flock is cut off from the fold, and there is no herd in the
stalls,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>yet I will rejoice in the Lord;
I will exult in the God of my salvation. (Habakkuk 3:17-18 NRSV)</i>. </div>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span>We don't always embrace this kind of attitude, and I think that’s what the holiday of
Thanksgiving is really about.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re not
thankful one day a year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We’re reminded
one day a year to be thankful every day.</div>
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Our Canadian Thanksgiving didn’t go as planned and who knows if our
U.S. Thanksgiving will.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>But regardless, I’m
going to have more than two Thanksgivings this year.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m going to have a helping of gratitude
every day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And why not?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m grateful in so many ways everyday for
you, and for all the blessings that enrich my life.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I hope you are grateful as well.</div>
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Yours in Christ;</div>
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David</div>
David Rockhillhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08297380854631206928noreply@blogger.com0