tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-83528842859113134462024-02-18T21:47:40.945-06:00Spirit Stirrera methodist pastor shares thoughts on life, scripture, and the church.spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-25859336448737899752009-11-19T21:03:00.002-06:002009-11-19T21:05:31.913-06:00Moving On . . .Due to some unexpected changes I've decided to leave blogger. Check out my new home:<br /><br /><a href="http://spiritstirrer.org/"><span style="font-size:180%;">http://spiritstirrer.org/ </span></a><br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-23781795506574170442009-11-04T10:30:00.002-06:002009-11-04T11:01:15.619-06:00The Rhythms of Pastoral LifeIn a previous post I spoke about those early months in ministry. Those months seemed like years! So much took place and much learning happened and little by little I settled in as pastor. It was almost as if one day I woke up and my normal movements, thinking, and inclination was that of a pastor.<br /><br />I was blessed that my first pastoral experience was as an associate pastor of a mid-size congregation. They were vibrant, always on the go, and hungry for God's movement in them. Their Sr. Pastor was wise mentor and knew me well. This mixture of dynamic congregation and Sr. Pastor as willing partner was pivotal in establishing in me good rhythms of pastoral life.<br /><br />The other day one of the ladies of our church stopped by the office with her three daughters. We checked in on a few things about the church and soon her daughters had made themselves comfortable in the space. They were climbing on chairs, playing with the toys (I always have toys on the bottom shelf of one of my bookcases), and looking at all the "things" that brother Juan (that's what they call me here) has all around his office. The conversation was coming to a close, the mother tells her daughters "let's get out of here, brother Juan is busy!," immediately one of the girls looks at me and asks "What is it that you do?"<br /><br />How do I explain my vocation and work to an eight year old? I turned my chair around and began to tell her about preaching, teaching, about checking in on people (especially if they were sick), and about study. So far nothing seem to impress her . . . it seemed boring! Then I said that my favorite part of my job was talking to people like her who just dropped by! With a big smile on her face she went on and soon came back with a drawing of Jesus for my office.<br /><br />These are the rhythms I learned from a congregation that cared enough to teach me and a mentor who loved enough to model. Some years ago Bishop Will Willimon was quoted in an article on the Christian Century by Jason Byassee called What do associate pastors want? Team Players, Willimon says "ministry is mostly learned through apprenticing." After these important early years of ministry I could not agree more!<br /><br />After three years as an associate I was appointed as pastor in charge of a small rural congregation in my home conference. The transition was enormous, going from a dynamic, fast moving, growing congregation to a small, dying one is not easy. I no longer have partners all around me to help dream dreams and see visions. There is no longer the hustle and bustle of the small city that I could hear from my office. But every morning I wake up and remember that I am a pastor and the rhythms of pastoral life that I learned help me walk into the empty church building and lead this congregation into the fullness that God is calling it to live.<br /><br />The rhythms of pastoral life become the incarnation of God's call to this life!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-83531251340879904052009-10-28T09:40:00.003-05:002009-10-28T16:14:33.153-05:00My Pastoral BeginningIn the latest <a href="http://www.christiancentury.org/">Christian Century</a> magazine (November 3) David J. Wood, senior pastor of Glencoe Union Church in Glencoe Ill., reviews a book called <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Midterms-Ministry-Practical-Theologians-Beginnings/dp/0802840027"><span style="font-style: italic;">From Midterms to Ministry: Practical Theologians on Pastoral Beginnings</span></a>, ed. Allan Hugh Cole Jr. His review of this book solidified my own need to reflect more deeply on my own beginning and on what has transpired since.<br /><br />I don't yet have the privilege of decades in ministry. I am one of those young pastors who only has years behind him, and few at that! I'm now on my fifth year being called pastor . . . five years of attempting to lead a faith community, five years of joys, disappointments, and continued discernment.<br /><br />Maybe the fact that it's so fresh allows me to remember more vividly the transition. Those painful mornings when I would arrive in my office wondering what I was supposed to do. Or those "firsts:" funeral, visit, someone makes an appointment to "see" you, ICU visit, sermon, broken pipe, leaky roof, "personnel" problems . . . the list could go on!<br /><br />I also remember the pain of letting go of my life as a student. It could be described as a grieving process. No longer part of a community of learning. No longer part of this important rhythm of learning, prayer, service. In some ways it was a deeply formative rhythm in my life. <br /><br />Getting up early to lead morning prayers in the chapel. Going to class and soon finding myself back in the chapel, this time for word and table. Then after more classes and one more chapel service I would find myself in chapel again to close my week. This time the rhythm slowed as we gathered, heard, reflected, and broke bread! Now empowered I was ready for whatever came my way.<br /><br />I found it jarring not to have this communal rhythm of learning, prayer, and service in the local church. It was almost like I could not find my way without it . . . I was not sure I even knew who I was without it.<br /><br />It was replaced by a more mundane one. Phone calls, e-mail messages, paperwork, and people "stopping by." And then there were the meetings, deadlines (another newsletter had to go out) and a run to the hospital. No morning prayer, no lecture or exciting theological conversation, no word and table . . .<br /><br />Then Katrina came! We had no floods of water where I lived, we had floods of people. Anxious people, tired people, scared people, people hungry for good news! Collared I went . . . to where people were, oil stock in hand, ready to listen. The stories came, the tears, the sadness, the fear and little by little their stories and the stories of the many others since, became my rhythm.<br /><br />I've tried to leave many times . . . to run away to a better, more fulfilling vocation. I have tried to convince myself that I've been called to other things, to less mundane things, to more heavenly things! But then a knock on the door of my office, a ringing phone, an invitation to come by is all it takes; someone wants to talk, someone wants to share their story. The words of morning prayer ring in my ears "O Lord Open My lips, that my mouth shall proclaim your praise!"<br /><br />I've been called to this and God is still calling me to it. It is the mundane that God has called me to, it is the ministry of healing, forgiving, and reconciling. The ministry of blessing, breaking, sharing; the ministry of being present in the name of the anointed and poured out One, Jesus the Christ.<br /><br />Now if I could just remember that each day is a pastoral beginning!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-60355886449534167392009-08-20T09:40:00.002-05:002009-08-20T10:06:56.552-05:00Calling & DiscernmentIt had been there a while. I could not remember at what point it emerged. In some ways I think it had always been there, I had always known.<br /><br />And then there was that moment when I was 12. It was the practice of our congregation to allow children at age 12 to read scripture during worship. I remember anticipating that 12 birthday and how excited I was when soon thereafter I received my first reading assignment. I do not remember the passage, I do remember standing before my congregation barely seen behind that pulpit and reading God's word to them. I believe this was the moment when I knew! God was calling me to be a proclaimer of this word! <br /><br />Life happens though. Like many other pastor's kids I let my own experience (painful at times) of my father's pastoral work to make me forget that moment. By the time high school came I was sure that the last thing I wanted to be was a pastor.<br /><br />The church remained faithful to their calling. They supported me in immeasurable ways, gave me opportunities for leadership and saw gifts in me that I could not see in myself at the time. Discernment was a communal experience.<br /><br />I could write pages on the next few years as I went into college, majored in religion, left the church (in spirit although not in body) and then found my calling again at a different congregation, this time in The United Methodist Church. At each of these turning points the community of faith continued to call, continued to be God's voice, continued to give me opportunities to experience leadership in a christian community.<br /><br />It has been a little over four years since I finished seminary. It seems like just the other day that I walked on the campus of <a href="http://www.candler.emory.edu/">Candler School of Theology</a>, it seems like an eternity! Since then I have pastored, first as an associate and in the last year as a solo pastor of a rural congregation. It has not all been easy but there is not a day that I am not reminded that this is what God has called me to do!<br /><br />The process took time. There were many forms to fill out, many interviews, many assignments, many conversations. At each step there were opportunities for continual discernment and exploration. Opportunities to hear God's voice calling again.<br /><br />God calls all of us. Us with different gifts, abilities, and life stories. God calls us to faithful proclamation and active engagement for the life of the world. Some are called to leadership in christian communities, around table & bath, around towel and basin. These are the cornerstones of ordained ministry.<br /><br />Sometimes I still feel like that twelve year old. Am I tall enough for the pulpit, for the table, for moments of holy conversation? At these times I remember the church gathered on that day long ago, their smiles, their attention, their knowledge that God was calling.<br /><br />That same God still calls each day! Discernment never ends!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+ <br /><br />P.S. If you are exploring a call to ordained ministry please consider attending <a href="http://www.gbhem.org/site/c.lsKSL3POLvF/b.3855673/">Exploration 2009</a>!spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-61333138562777014592009-07-28T09:10:00.003-05:002009-07-28T09:37:36.053-05:00In Memoriam II<blockquote>"Later of course we realized that such a day-brightener as Alex wouldn't want to be held close by grief. Now I see him best when I grieve him least."</blockquote>William Sloane Coffin in <span style="font-style: italic;">Letters to a Young Doubter</span><br /><br />My dear Garrett,<br /><br />I can't believe it has been two years. In some ways the memories of that day are still so raw, maybe even permanently chiseled in my soul. Yet in other ways much has happened in the last two years. We have celebrated the arrival of your brother Nate, baptized him, and are now amazed to see how much he has grown. Avery has become a great baseball player and we celebrate that legacy, your legacy in his life.<br /><br />And then there was my move to a new church. Although excited there was some sadness that we would not be close to your parents and to our circle of friends. In the last year since the move we have realized time and time again that the bond we share is one that is stronger than miles in between and paralleled lives. Your leaving in some ways cemented what we knew was there long before.<br /><br />I am not where Coffin is . . . I am trying to grieve you less. I am trying to honor you in my work each day. Then Sunday after Sunday I get on my knees and see little hands outstretched, little hands begging for a little bread. Little hands eager, open, ready, to hear the words "every time you eat this bread remember you are a beloved child of God." And there you are, part of the great communion of saints that interceded for us and who gathers with us in the braking of the bread. So I am trying to let go and to celebrate your "day-brightedness" by grieving you less.<br /><br />And then there are those that you have given life! Those understand Coffin well. Thanks to your gift of self others have found life when death was so near. So on this 2nd anniversary of your leaving us I celebrate life! I invite all those who want to make a difference to consider the giving of themselves in organ donation. I invite them to read your <a href="http://www.lopa.org/Garrett.html">story</a> and talk to their loved ones about this important issue.<br /><br />Your mother sent us a text recently reminding us that in some ways we were all your godparents. What an awesome and honored place in your life! So I am thankful that I had the opportunity to remind you of the love of God for you, in a small way I did my duty as a godparent without even knowing it.<br /><br />Thank you again for your constant presence, for the constant reminder that I am doing God's work, for me, each day. I'll see you soon!<br /><br />Peace & much Love, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-89348757938524953772009-07-01T16:42:00.002-05:002009-07-01T16:59:41.305-05:00The Gospel of "We"It happens everyday! I get this need to get out of the office and make my way to the corner grocery. (Here in our part of the world this small "convenience" store is about as close to a communal gathering place as we are going to get) I always get the same thing, a tall 32 oz. cup of Dr. Pepper. It has become part of my daily ritual in my small rural community. They know me by now and it never fails that when I come in conversations about God or the church begin, or continue depending on who you ask.<br /><br />I make it a point to listen more than I talk. Sometimes there are times of confession other times joys are shared. There is always something though, a bad day, a long day, a struggle with the kids, a bad costumer. Then there is me, the local young pastor, who happens to drop in always at the right time.<br /><br />Today it was no different. A conversation ensued about the use of the word "Jesus" as a substitute for other kinds of curse words. I as the resident "preacher" was soon in the middle of the conversation, having a wonderful time listening as the people coming in and out expressed their opinion on this important matter.<br /><br />Soon they all seemed to turn towards me wondering what I thought, what was my take?<br /><br />I proceeded to say: "We all use God/Jesus' name in vain at times . . ."<br /><br />One of the workers stopped me on my tracks and remarked "you too do that . . ." to which another one of the workers said "that's one of the things I enjoy about Br. Juan is always "we" when he talks"<br /><br />It's always "we!" I have not been able to shake this up, I've been thinking about it all day. It is always we in my mind. I connect with the struggles that we all have in our attempt to live our lives. I too understand how difficult it is to live the way the way of Jesus in the world, especially in the everyday of life.<br /><br />I think there is more here . . . it is only in the "we" that we can truly walk the way Jesus. We cannot do it alone, we cannot push everyone away and pretend that somehow it is better, holier. In fact the "we" is harder, more complicated, and messier. Yet Christ calls us to this "we," "we are one body" Paul tells us, "We are to make disciples," says Jesus.<br /><br />We also fail,<br />mess it up,<br />make it impossible,<br />difficult,<br />full of trials.<br /><br />In spite of its difficulties, I am thankful for the "we." I am also thankful that I am part of a community that invites this young pastor into their lives and allows me to be part of the "we" in my community.<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-15556018510818782942009-06-25T15:40:00.004-05:002009-06-25T16:02:41.980-05:006 Questions for the UMC<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTmYhbN-1Ixc03cNbPctFh39H4ZOiPOk17JUdME74bsvYOMMKrirzTTEMnTBEbZQShNiNdZyfi2GG3ZIyp384gxIeBLPVXLMQ-6rzXIC7TyZRezC1fPa4cwMuKdCfmBn0ZCTXw8wSotn0/s1600-h/6qumc+lo-res.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbTmYhbN-1Ixc03cNbPctFh39H4ZOiPOk17JUdME74bsvYOMMKrirzTTEMnTBEbZQShNiNdZyfi2GG3ZIyp384gxIeBLPVXLMQ-6rzXIC7TyZRezC1fPa4cwMuKdCfmBn0ZCTXw8wSotn0/s320/6qumc+lo-res.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351371919793712770" border="0" /></a>Sometimes we get so busy talking that we do not listen carefully. We talk, critique, whine, and complain and none of that helps us at solving any problems.<br /><br />As a young pastor in The United Methodist Church I have joined in a time of prayer for the church. We have called for God's presence upon us, we have asked for forgiveness for the ways in which we are a hindrance to the work of the spirit in our church, we have received forgiveness, direction, and strength.<br /><br />Now we continue the journey by asking questions. These questions will help us discern our next step, and along the way will help us grow as a community. I will ask them with the spirit of my 5 year old who is always wondering, always curious, and always wanting to know more!<br /><br />"Now when Jesus came into the district of Caesarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, 'Who do people say the Son of Man is?' And they said, 'Some say John the Baptist, but others Elijah, and still others Jeremiah or one of the prophets.' He said to them, 'But who do you say that I am?'"<br />(Matthew 16:13-15, NRSV)<br /><br />Asking questions helps us refocus as we become agents of renewal, restoration, and reformation in the church, for the transformation of the world. <br /><br />Join us in asking "6 Questions for the United Methodist Church"--or 6qUMC--today. You can find more information at <a href="http://www.umcyoungclergy.com/6qumc">http://www.umcyoungclergy.com/6qumc</a> and we hope that you will help renew the church from the margins.<br /><br />Let's journey together!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-52767396142078483962009-06-20T09:13:00.009-05:002009-06-20T10:09:06.101-05:00Following Money or Following Jesus?<h3 style="font-weight: normal;" class="UIIntentionalStory_Message" ft="{"type":"msg"}"><blockquote><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-family:arial;font-size:100%;" >"We are more interested in making money than following Jesus" </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:100%;" >Chad Myers</span></blockquote></h3>We are constantly bombarded with our need for stuff. From the moment we wake up in the to the time we go to bed there is the constant buzz that tells us that we need, we need, we need! Cars, jewelry, gadgets, the latest this or that . . . we need these things to be human, to be successful, to be part of the "american dream."<br /><br />Often in the church we are no different. We want stuff that will help us, make us comfortable, and will make us feel better. All of this wanting (turn to needing to make us feel better) causes us to loose focus and blinds us to the real needs in us and in our world.<br /><br />Then comes the teaching of Jesus . . . the last shall be first, the poor will inherit the kingdom, the powerful will be brought down and the lowly will be lifted up, those who are in darkness will be given light, those who are proud will be humbled.<br /><br />Jesus shows us (directs us towards) our real need! Our need for community, our need for connectedness, our need for something larger than ourselves.<br /><br />Jesus turns us from a constant concern over ourselves, our needs, our wants, our desires, our consumption. To a concern over the needs of the world, their hurts, their illness, their need for new life.<br /><br />Jesus transforms us from consumers to producers, from takers, to givers, from needy, to fulfilled, from broken to whole.<br /><br />All of this means that this gospel is needed in the world. We need to support and work towards a sustainable economy, a just economy, an economy that is centered on the management of God given resources for the life and redemption of the world.<br /><br />As we do this, as we become this, we become witnesses (agents, catalyst) of the ministry of Jesus in the world.<br /><br />Peace, Juan+<br /><br />P.S. Coming soon "Catholicity & Locality: The Church as Many Gifts but One Spirit"spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-42748045709727918252009-06-03T17:12:00.007-05:002009-06-04T09:37:48.809-05:00Pour Upon . . . the Holy Spirit<blockquote>"Words, stories, sacraments, images, gestures: pastors have really nothing else."</blockquote>Gordon Lathrop in <span style="font-style: italic;">The Pastor A Spirituality</span><br /><br />So it is my first year anniversary as an ordained elder in the church. It seems like a wonderful time to reflect on my last year of ministry and on my first year as an ordained person. Much conversation has been going on around me about the meaning, purpose, and need of/for the ordained life. I'll have to admit that after four years of ministry and one year of ministry as an ordained person I am more convinced than ever of the importance of ordained ministry in the church.<br /><br />It might surprise you that my conclusion has little to do with job security (guaranteed appointment), position (are pastors that highly regarded anymore?), or titles (what you call me means little to me). It does have something to do with baptism, for it binds us and makes us one people: people who need to remember their identity and that in the most difficult times of their life need one who reminds, calls, and invokes . . . one who can stand in those liminal places (threshold places, transition places, difficult places, changing places) and represent the body of Christ.<br /><br />And so I've spent the last year playing with words, stories, sacraments, images, and gestures. After these early years of ministry I wholeheartedly agree that I have nothing else. This is humbling and scary at the same time. I do not have fame, fortune, position, power, control . . . all I have is these things that have been given to me and that have been activated in me by the laying on of hands. I can't tell you how many times I have wanted to have more and then the Spirit has reminded me that I have what I need, that I have been given what I need.<br /><br />So it seems like the Spirit that was invoked on me last year is still working at it, not yet finished, making sure that all of me is covered, all of me is saturated, all of me is drowning. Poured out, once more, poured out like at my baptism long ago, poured out so that I can let it drip from me, pour from me . . . for the life of the world.<br /><br />Thanks be to God!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-1049482564030801162009-03-09T15:13:00.002-05:002009-03-09T20:42:34.764-05:00Why We Need JesusUrgency is at the core of evangelism. We evangelize because we believe that, as the song says, people need the Lord! The deeper that our relationship is with our creator the more convince we become of this important fact. The more we minister to people and become attentive to their needs the more aware we become of their need for God.<br /><br />Christianity in some circles has become so obsessed with belief that it hase painted itself in a corner. We have separated ourselves from "others" who are sinful, wrong, evil. We have become modern day pharisees. Many in contemporary society view Christians as out of touch, hypocritical, and prejudiced. In response to these concerns some churches have gone to the extreme of removing all semblance of church in their building and in their message hoping that this way people might reconnect with God (a Christianized "bait and switch" technique). Other churches have gone the other extreme, they have strengthened their "positions" and have declared themselves the faithful remnant, those that do not agree with their positions are just sinful, evil people, especially if they claimed to be Christian. No wonder so many unbelievers are so confused! We continue to fight amongst ourselves instead of reaching out to others.<br /><br />In light of all of this why do we need Jesus? In the early chapters of Genesis we receive the answer: we need Jesus because left to our own devices we are not going to love others, creation, or really ourselves (that's what we call sin). Left to our own devices we are easily deceived into thinking that the fruit before us is better than the fruit of relationship to God and other people (here is sin again). Left to our own devices we are unable to satisfy the longing for something larger than ourselves (this longing is what Wesley called previnient grace).<br /><br />Jesus is the one that bridges the gap between sinful (broken, sick) humanity and a holy God (creator, sustainer). Since God in Jesus took our form, remained sinless (while eating and drinking with sinners), and finally was able to conquer sin (through resurrection) then humanity is able to be restored to what God intended, restored to being God's image in the world.<br /><br />Here is the urgent message: You too can be restored! You too can find life! You too can find community!<br /><br />See you on Wednesday . . .<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-61759403392181348812009-03-01T20:00:00.004-06:002009-03-01T20:29:45.771-06:00The "E" WordThis week we begin an unusual Lenten study series. Normally during Lenten season the church studies and practices prayer, fasting, & alms giving. These are the basic practices of Christianity and because of that we give them closer attention during the Lenten season. Those that practice these important disciplines will grow in their faith and will want to share with others the reason for their transformed life. This conversation, the sharing, is evangelism.<br /><br />I have had difficulties with evangelism. I've felt manipulated, harrased, and judged by people who claimed to be doing evangelism. I am sure that you could share similar stories of times when you had a difficult encounter with those doing evangelism. Because of this reason many mainline churches have not placed much emphasis on this important spiritual practice.<br /><br />I grew up in a tradition where evangelism was pivotal. Part of the reason for its importance was a concern that if it was not done then people would go to hell. That explained the passion in this tradition for the practice of evangelism.<br /><br />What drives our tradition? What is the place of evangelism in the UMC? What is the place of evangelism at Squyres UMC?<br /><br />These are some of the questions that we will be asking as we study together. Join us in the journey!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-16709687681784681732008-11-05T13:58:00.003-06:002008-11-14T19:03:25.388-06:00On the Election . . .This has been a difficult election season. Many candidates, very different proposals for our future and, towards the end, a growing economic crisis. The tenor of the campaign took an unfortunate turn with much mud slinging, half truths, and racist undertones.<br /><br />Right in the middle of all of this unfortunate political maneuvering were many Christian people. I received countless e-mail forwards about Barack Obama's "evil" characteristics - from him being a Muslim (Thanks dad & mom for teaching me to love everyone and that there are faithful people in other religions), to his support of killing children, to his connections with terrorism. All of these unfortunate claims passed on as "truths" by people who follow Jesus. Add to these a series of position disaggreements that included claims that poor people are poor because they are lazy, healthcare is a responsibility not a right, and leaving Iraq is "surrendering" and we have in our hands fuel for the fires of hatred and division.<br /><br />In spite of all of the rhetoric we elected Barak Obama as president of the United States forty years after the assasination of The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.<br /><br />Today we have reasons to rejoice! Not because a democrat won the white house, or because it was our canditate who won. We rejoice because of the historic milestone that has been achived in a country with such an unfortunate history of race relations.<br /><br />As a pastor I have refused to take partisan labels and to publicly support a candidate. That has been and will continue to be my practice. Now I join the chorus of other Americans (of all political persuasions) in celebrating this important moment in our history where we show the signs of healing from the wounds of our painful past.<br /><br />I will continue to work diligently in leading the people of God into faithful engagement with the issues of our time. I will continue to teach that the kingdom of God is not brought about by any political party but by the people of God. I will also continue to be an agent of reconciliation and a bearer of the good news to all people, no matter who they are.<br /><br />Now as God's people we have the duty to continue lifting up in prayer all our national leaders as they work towards peace, justice, fairness, and equality for all people here and around the world.<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-64333029666481203762008-10-27T18:40:00.002-05:002008-10-27T18:49:54.071-05:00A Dream ChurchIn a recent flight to Dayton, Ohio, friend and colleague <a href="http://stagesontheway.blogspot.com/">Katie McKay</a> asked me about what kind of community I dream about serving. After a few seconds I gave her what seemed to me later like a convoluted answer.<br /><br />I continued thinking about the question as we both enjoyed our time with the <a href="http://http://youngpastorsnetwork.org/">Young Pastors Network</a> and the Change the World Conference.<br /><br />One of those mornings it came to me . . . I would love to lead a liturgical, sacramental, contemplative, progressive, missional congregation.<br /><br />Wow!!! That seems like a lot to ask!<br /><br />In the next few weeks I hope to tease these characteristics out in the hopes that others catch a vision for this kind of faith community.<br /><br />Maybe is not a crazy dream at all . . .<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-82212376835079473682008-10-08T11:25:00.002-05:002008-10-08T11:48:07.815-05:00Don't Worry!<span style="font-style: italic;">"Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your request be known to God."</span> Philippians 4:6<br /><br />It's not easy for me not to worry. In some ways its part of my nature. There are so many needs around me and sometimes there is little I can do about those. Listening to the talking heads on television makes it worst . . . the needs of the world are even more overwhelming. But what if there are good reasons to worry, to be concerned?<br /><br />For the last few weeks we have watched our economy go on a nosedive. Financial institutions have failed, markets have tumble, and people are anxious. The price for basic necessities continue to go up and our salaries remain the same. Many are losing their jobs and others are losing their pensions. These are worrisome times.<br /><br />Our faith teaches us not to worry instead to bring our concerns to God. This is not a simple "just pray and it will get better." Instead is a re-prioritizing connection to the one who gives us what we need.<br /><br />Worry does not help us in any way. Politicians, economist, and other "experts" just add to the anxiety. Their opinions and solutions are obviously not rooted in the ethics of Jesus. They are not rooted in the struggles of the least, of the needy, of the voiceless. They are not rooted in simplicity and in the sharing of resources. Instead the main concern is on saving big corporations, getting them back so that they make more money and somehow have that money trickle down to those who work very hard each day to make a living. If worry does not help neither does our reliance on these leaders.<br /><br />I'm making my request to God. I am acknowledging my own greed and desire for more. I am relying on the one who has never left me. I am depending on the one who created the world.<br /><br />As for the crisis . . . it will continue until we begin to deal with the source of the problem (an ethic incompatible with the Gospel) and we change our ways (repent) and begin to live in new ways (the way of Jesus). In the meantime we will continue to do <span style="font-style: italic;">"the things that [we] have learned and received and heard and seen."</span> (Philippians 4:9) We will continue to proclaim the Good News of Jesus in the midst of the storm.<br /><br />Thanks be to God!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-25663424395055642772008-09-22T17:00:00.002-05:002008-09-23T08:53:25.017-05:00After the StormWe are blessed that all is well. No damage, no leaks, no rebuilding. Others were not so lucky. All our people are back and we are trying to settle into our lives and continue the work of ministry in this community.<br /><br />After a storm there is normally a time of evaluation. Experts weigh in on the damage, they asses it and plan for reconstruction. Property owners try to determine if they will rebuild, those who do not own wonder if they will come back. Decisions have to be made after a storm.<br /><br />Although we did not suffer damage I believe we can also take this opportunity for evaluation. I wonder what God is calling us to? What is God's invitation to us? What do we need to change and what do we need to continue doing?<br /><br />In one of my current reads <span style="font-style: italic;">Leading Beyond the Walls<span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span>, Adam Hamilton says that churches need to ask themselves three questions:<br /><br />1. Why do people need Christ?<br />2. Why do people need the church?<br />3. Why do they need this particular church?<br /><br />(Abingdon Press; 2002, p 21)<br /><br />These are wonderful questions. We need to ask them, answer them and act on them. We need to be open to what God is leading us into as a community of faith. Vibrancy, mission, zeal are important to those who follow Jesus, the one who is with us in the midst of the storm and the one who calms it.<br /><br />Others need to hear about it!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-34693191834384715162008-09-11T10:54:00.002-05:002008-09-11T11:02:03.453-05:00On StormsAgain we are watching a storm . . . this time it is Ike. I am glad that they have names. You watch it so much that you get to know them. <br /><br />Again we are wondering what to do . . . leaving, staying are difficult decisions to make. What is the best choice? <br /><br />Again we are anxious about the future . . . what is the aftermath going to bring? Who will be affected? What are we going to do then?<br /><br />Again we are relying on the God of a future with hope . . . the one who walks with us through the valley, calms the storms, and heals what is broken. <br /><br />Again we know what is like to live in uncertainty . . . imagine those who live in it everyday!spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-56859186432731288032008-08-27T16:17:00.003-05:002008-08-27T16:32:46.746-05:00On Living ChurchesRecently a lay leader at Squyres told me about a quiz he was giving his students the next day. The quiz was about the Five Characteristics of Living Things:
<br />
<br /><ol><li>Are organized or have an orderly structure.</li><li>Respond to their environment- this includes homeostasis: mantaining proper internal conditions.</li><li>Take in and use energy.</li><li>Grow and develop: individual cells grow and the organism grows by adding new cells - over a lifetime, living things develop and change.</li><li>Reproduce.</li></ol>
<br />Upon hearing these characteristics a "light bulb" went on and theological senses heightened. Here is my version of the theological characteristics of living churches:
<br />
<br /><ol><li>Are Community: are organized and structured communally.</li><li>Are Missional: Respond to their environment.</li><li>Are led by the Spirit: Take in and use the Spirit's power.</li><li>Are Maturing: grow in & develop their discipleship (sanctification).</li><li>Are Reproducing: make disciples by sharing the good news with others.</li></ol>
<br />So is our church "alive?" What can we do to make sure that it is? What are your thoughts?
<br />
<br />Peace, Juan+
<br /><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.5in 11in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --></style><meta equiv="CONTENT-TYPE" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><title></title><meta name="GENERATOR" content="OpenOffice.org 2.4 (Win32)"><style type="text/css"> <!-- @page { size: 8.5in 11in; margin: 0.79in } P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --></style>spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-51727888637996229812008-08-25T15:30:00.003-05:002008-08-25T20:20:50.366-05:00On Thirty!I can't believe that I am 30 years old today. In some ways it seems impossible in others it seems like I'm 40!<br /><br />I have a blessed life. God has graced me with a wonderful family, great vocation, and loyal friends. In so many ways I am amazed at my life, it is better than I ever dreamed it could be. There have been many sojourners and guides along the way. I am most thankful at my parents who have believed in me always and in Shannon who sees gifts in me that I cannot see. I am also thankful to the many friends that have been part of my journey, especially Josh Hale and the gang.<br /><br />I have been reflecting in the last few weeks about my life. My passions are many and I want to direct those passions to the service of God and to the good of humanity. My life is still just beginning and my prayer is that I can continue to use the gifts that God has given me for the work of the Gospel.<br /><br />Thank you to all who have made my life a wonderful journey and I pray that you continue in the journey with me.<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-61795018351306415862008-08-07T12:47:00.003-05:002008-08-07T13:03:22.948-05:00JourneyIn a recent congregational letter I invited our members to journey with us. For those of you who know me this will not be a surprise. I am one who has been deeply formed by the idea of life as a journey, especially as a person of faith.<br /><br />I have been on a journey my whole life. I have moved many times, went to many different schools, different churches, and have met many wonderful people. There have been heartbreaks along the way but by and large it has been a wonderful life. In fact, I would not be who I am if I had not been on those "adventures"(as my family sometimes refers to our travels).<br /><br />Being on a journey is an intentional decision. You prepare for it and within it are always aware of where you are, taking it all in, knowing that at every point God is there guiding, prodding, and inviting.<br /><br />In baptism we have been initiated in a communal journey. Our walk is not solitary but instead it includes all the faithful from the beginning of time. That community takes shape in our worship on the Lord's day as we gather around font, word, and table. In the gathering of God's people we rehearse what it means to be on this journey, what it means to be in it together.<br /><br />I am thankful for the many who have walked this journey with me. Father and mother who got me started, a sister who was an early companion, now a wife and children who walk with me hand in hand. There have also been others: friends, colleagues, teachers, mentors, and strangers. All have been companions, all have been Christ for me at different times, all have made a mark in my life.<br /><br />God is constantly inviting us to be part of this great adventure that we call a life of faith. I wonder if we will take God on that invitation? I wonder if we will join him and the community of faith in this journey?<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-38602321521941324812008-07-28T09:50:00.002-05:002008-07-28T10:07:12.468-05:00In MemoriamAnniversaries are important. They are markers of important events in ones life. In celebrating them we acknowledge that the event left a permanent marker in our lives.<br /><br />This is the anniversary of Garrett's death. I can't believe that a year has passed by. . . so much has changed since that day. I am sure that none of our lives have been the same for this one event has marked us forever.<br /><br />The Christian faith is one of resurrection! We believe that Christ conquered sin and death and because of that we too can conquer it. We believe that those that have gone before us are part of the great communion of saints, those that are already living the fruits of resurrection. We believe that when we gather around the table that communion gathers with us once more as we celebrate the mighty acts of Jesus Christ.<br /><br />Garrett you have been with me all this time and will be with me always. Every time I celebrate Holy Communion I am reminded that you are there celebrating with us (maybe now paying a little more attention ;-) Every time I kneel down to give bread and wine to any child, I am reminded of those big eyes and little hands ready to receive. I was honored to be your pastor.<br /><br />On this anniversary I thank you for reminding me of God's call in my life. I thank you for being God's messenger in the midst of the most difficult time in the lives of so many.<br /><br />We miss you!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-89990749775505272402008-07-24T14:27:00.002-05:002008-07-24T14:47:46.152-05:00I Believe!In a recent <a href="http://liturgicalnerds.blogspot.com/">blog</a> my best friend, brother, and colleague Josh Hale asked the question "What is it like to be a priest, a prophet, a preacher, a pastor, a parson?"<span style="text-decoration: underline;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span> it was interesting that he asked the question because I have been asking it about myself in the last few weeks. What is like and what does it mean? Why do I do what I do each day? What does it mean to feel called to it?<br /><br />I agree with Josh that most of us do a poor job at describing our vocation. Complaining, sharing "war" stories and whining does not help those called to answer that call. In fact for many it's probably a big turn off when they hear pastors describing what they do in such negative ways.<br /><br />I do what I do because I believe! I believe in the transformative power of the gospel. I believe in the amazing empowerment of the Spirit that the gathering called the church has to carry out God's vision in the world. I believe that some of us have been called by God to lead God's people into that fullness into God's own work. I believe that the work is grounded in the incarnation as we become the body of Christ for the world. I believe passionately . . . maybe at times to my detriment.<br /><br />All of this to say that I believe in the church and in its power to be God's agent in the world. Every church has that response-ability in their own community where ever they are. I believe in our own congregation Squyres UMC and in its potential to be this kind of transformative community in this place. I Believe . . .<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-86304544415588543682008-07-15T15:27:00.002-05:002008-07-15T15:29:05.461-05:00On the Church: A BeginningSome years ago, while our family was on vacation, we attended a local congregation for worship. As we arrived we were given bulletins by the greeters, who were friendly but not extremely helpful, and typical of pastors I began to look at everything around me, the space, the people, the layout, and what this church said about itself in the different pieces of material in the pew and in the bulletin. Soon I found their mission statement: “Committed to an informed membership.” <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">An "informed membership?" I was disappointed at this congregation and I was only a visitor. Although I am sure that they meant well it spoke volumes that their “mission” had nothing to do with the mission of Jesus. I wonder how they arrived at seeing themselves in this way? What did they mean by it? How did they perceive this way of being as one that would guide them into kingdom work?</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">As I begin my work at Squyres UMC I ask myself: what is our mission? and how do we accomplish it? If our mission is centered on Christ, driven by God's Spirit, and rooted in table fellowship, what does our living in this way look like? Our ministries? Our ways of conversation and administration?</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">All of these are important questions. They are important because society needs the church to be the church, the gathering of those transformed by God's Spirit into agents of God's reconciling love. That is our mission, our calling, and our identity.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">We could be committed to an "informed membership" or to any other cause, but that does not make us the church. What makes us the church is our commitment to live the way of Jesus in the world, empowered by the Spirit, sealed by the waters of baptism, and constantly sanctified by table fellowship. </p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">In the next few weeks I will continue writing on the church. If you have any comments or questions please feel free to write them. My prayer is that God may guide us as we seek to be the church, the people of God, in our community.</p> <p style="margin-bottom: 0in;">Peace, Juan+</p>spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-37583349067251422072008-07-07T08:26:00.003-05:002008-07-10T15:53:19.261-05:00On Being NamedI remember the excitement and joy of selecting a name for our children. It was not easy, we poured over baby name books for hours, yet little by little we began selecting and putting names together. Some early favorites did not make it while others kept on coming up. Our goal was to find a name that "fit" our dreams, hopes, and desires for this child. In some ways naming became a sort of invocation, a calling of God's promises and our promises on this child. It is not surprising then that in scripture God uses naming as a powerful tool that speaks of a change in a person's life.<br /><br />Spirit Stirrer was a name (a description) given to me. Out of a very difficult time a close friend poured out in poetic utterance and named me. Sharing in this pain and this naming changed my life. It was a gift of God's grace. At the time I did not realize it. Others were given names also and we had a wonderful time decoding who was who (see like a great poet she allowed for us to figure out who was who and after much banter she revealed it).<br /><br />Last week I had a dream about this "name," I was told to use it. I was not sure how, dreams are like that, what I knew was that I needed to claim it. After a conversation with my name giver I decided that it was ok to use it as the name for my new blog.<br /><br />I hope this medium becomes a conversation about life together. As I begin my work as pastor of Squyres United Methodist Church I am aware of the importance of community. As Christian people we claim that our life together is made possible by God's Spirit. It is this Spirit that I hope is stirring all of us towards one another and towards God.<br /><br />I am blessed and honored to be given the opportunity to be a catalyst, an agent, of God's initiative in the lives of people. I pray this medium extends that ministry, the ministry of the church, to all that God sends this way!<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8352884285911313446.post-24955729228839903812008-07-03T16:26:00.000-05:002008-07-03T16:30:39.761-05:00Welcome!I am excited about this new beginning! I'll have to admit that I have not been a very effective blogger. I've had fits and starts and an occasional encounter with my muse. Overall not much has been written so I decided to bury my old blog (Sacramental Ramblings) and begin a new one.<br /><br />Soon I will talk about the name and what I hope these musings accomplish. For now all I will say is that I am grateful to be back and look forward to the conversation.<br /><br />Peace, Juan+spiritstirrerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13270411892743418152noreply@blogger.com1