The Christmas Gospel According to John

During the Christmas season we expect to hear the Luke 2 account of our Savior’s birth.  During the season of Epiphany we hear the story of the visit of the Magi as told by Matthew.  Both Gospel also contain narratives on the announcement of the Jesus’ birth; Matthew tells the story from Joseph’s perspective and the more detailed account of Mary’s story is found in Luke.  But, there is another Christmas gospel.   It is found in John 1.  While Matthew and Luke provide the details of the event, John provides insight into the meaning of Jesus’ birth.  While Matthew traces Jesus lineage back to Abraham and Luke connects the story to Old Testament prophesy, John goes one better and connect Jesus birth with the beginning of the world at creation.

“In the beginning was the Word.” (John 1:1).  The fact that the “Word” is capitalized causes us to assume it is a proper noun, meaning Jesus is the “Word.”  John links Jesus, “The Word,” to creation.  That means that all three persons of The Trinity were present at the beginning of the world.  God the Father was the creator who called things into existence, and the Spirit was present “hovering over the waters” but what role did Jesus play in creation?  Translated into Greek, “The Word” is Logos.  In this context term “The Logos” appears twice in the scriptures, at creation and at the birth of Jesus.

In the beginning “the earth was formless and empty.” (Genesis 1:2).  It was encompassed in darkness.  I would propose that Jesus' role was to enter into that chaos and bring a sense of peace.   I believe that is the message John is delivering at the beginning of his gospel.  In John 1:14 he writes, “The Word (“The Logos”) became flesh and lived a while among us.”  Jesus brought the same sense of peace to the first century world as he brings today.  The word “Peace” is often associated with the Christmas season.  Even the secular world uses the word “Peace” at Christmas time, but those of us who get the message realize that the only “true peace” can be found in “The Logos.” 

My prayer for you this Christmas is that you may experience the “peace” of the Christ Child in an even deeper way.  I also pray that “The Logos” may bring peace to the chaos that is your world.  I further pray that through you people may see the peace of the Christ Child.  Our world may seem to have lost it way and be in a state of chaos, but the Prince of Peace has come to restore order and remove the darkness that covers the earth.  You are his instrument to accomplish that.  My God grant that through the power of His Spirit, this Christmas and in 2016.

IT IS CHRISTMAS AND THE MILLENNIALS ARE COMING

Christmas is a time when a lot of individuals find their way home.  For many families that means welcoming home Millennials.  Some those might be college students.  Others are young adults who live in distant cities.  Parents are not the only ones who wait in expectation for the return of young people.  Pastors and others on the church staff are anticipating the return of so many familiar faces.  I recall my days in church youth ministry.  The Christmas Eve services were among my favorite times.  In addition to hearing the story of our Savior’s birth and singing the familiar carols, I anticipated seeing so many of the kids I had bonded with in youth group. 

Welcoming home some Millennials can be a difficult experience.   Some have made decisions that they know run counter to their parent’s desires.  Those choices also might run counter to what they were taught in Sunday school and youth group.  There is also the unfortunate possibility many of them have wandered from the faith.  Others still consider themselves to be spiritual but have turned a deaf ear to the message of traditional Christianity.

It easy to view holiday visits as a time to confront the issues that might divide us.  Beware, sometimes it is better to just celebrate Christmas with them and let our actions deliver the message.  Here are some other things to keep mind.

Many Millennials like traditions.  That might especially be the case when it comes to Christmas rituals.  For those planning Christmas worship that means making sure you tell the Christmas Story from Luke 2, and sing Silent Night, preferably by candlelight.  For parents that means being careful not to make too many changes in the way the home is decorated or in the menu.

Christmas is not the time to confront them about past mistakes or poor choices.  Remember, Jesus provides the ultimate example of unconditional love.  Our Savior was very good at loving people where they were at and gently guiding them to where He wanted them to be. 

Make Christ the center of your Christmas.  The way you convey the “Christmas peace” through you actions might be the most powerful message they witness.

May the peace of the Christ Child dwell in your family and in your home during this Christmas season.

Entertaining Angels

We are a divided nation in these days.  The issue is immigration; specifically who should we refuse to allow into our country.  It seems that every presidential candidate has an opinion.  Some have even suggested that we need to build a wall to keep out those seeking to come in.  It is not just politicians who have weighed in.  Not a day goes by without someone expressing their opinion on Facebook.  I must admit being more than a little troubled by the stance of many.  It should especially not be the case with many of those seeking safety at this time.  Many of the Syrian refugees are Christians who are fleeing persecution. 

“Keep on loving one another as brothers and sister.

Do not forget to show hospitality to strangers,

for by so doing some have shown hospitality to angels without knowing it.”

Hebrews 13:1-2

I get a sense that much of the current reaction is based on fear.  People are afraid that we might allow in individual, specifically a terrorist, who seek to do us harm.  I can understand why those who are outside the faith might feel threatened, but as Christians we have no reason to fear.  We have a Savior who has overcome the ultimate terrorist, Satan.  Jesus not only preached but modeled hospitality.  He did not shy away from those he knew had the intent to harm him.  He even welcomed Judas, who ultimately betrayed him, to the Passover table.  “Love your neighbor, as yourself,” he instructed his followers (Matthew 22:39). 

In some ways we could learn something here from the Millennials among us.  Today’s young adults have grown up in a culturally diverse world.  There is a pretty good chance they have attended school with students from other cultures, and even different religious traditions.  In some cases those individuals might even be friends or coworkers.  Their experience has moved them beyond tolerance to a spirit where they now embrace those who are different.  For that reason I sense that they are confused and troubled by the stance that many within the church have expressed.  How can those who claim to be people of faith express disdain and fear toward those who are different?   How can we turn our backs to those who seek refuge in our country? 

I am left to ask the same questions.

People of Faith, not Fear

"The wise man built his house upon a rock."  It is a simple children's song that I recall singing many times back when I would lead Sunday School and Vacation Bible School worship.  We sang it again last Sunday.  Our pastor taught it to a new generation of little ones during his children's message.  He also had us gather in a circle for prayer at the beginning of the worship service.  We prayed for the people of Paris and those who grieve after the tragic terrorist attack.  Both the prayer time and the simple song seemed appropriate for this time when our world could be rocked again.

Note I used the word "could" when I reflected on the current terrorist threat.  Seems to me we have been down this road before; Oklahoma City, 9/11 and various mass shootings. Like everyone else, I can recall where I was, and what I was doing when the news broke. In each case I had a choice when it came to how I responded.  Each Christian faces the same option.  Do we respond with faith and hope, or fear?

In a time when it seems like one tragedy follows another, I still find comfort and hope in knowing God is in charge and the victory has already been won.  Even this "not so wise" man has built his home on the rock of Jesus Christ.  That needs to be our message and testimony in these days.  Our prayers need to be for the survivors and those touched by the tragedies, but there should no need for panic or mass hysteria.  Remember Jesus words, "In this world you will have trouble.  Fear not I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)  I truly believe the strongest testimony we can give as Christians is found in the way we respond to tragedy.

We need to live in the hope of the Risen Savior in these days.  It is especially vital that children and teens hear words of grace and hope in these days.  If we respond with anger, or fear we are in effect denying our faith.  That is not the message Jesus would want us to share.  When the First Century disciples faced terror, they responded even louder with the Good News of the Risen Savior.

Why the Big Deal Over a Red Cup?

One of the latest flap on social media seems to be the decision by Starbucks to offer a simple “Red” cup during the holiday season this year.  Past holiday cups from Starbucks had featured snowflakes and evergreen trees.  Some have taken offense because they feel that the coffee giant is downplaying Christmas by offering a cup with no decoration.  Some have even gone so far as accusing Starbucks of “taking Christ out of Christmas.”  I must admit being a little puzzled over that allegation.  Frankly, I struggle to see a connection between “Babe in a Manger” and snowflakes.  Why the sudden offense?  Mainstream America has been downplaying the Christian theme at Christmas for years.  When was the last time you saw a nativity scene in a public park or municipal building?

To be honest, I can understand and even accept the cultural shift away from the "true meaning of Christmas".  When it comes to grasping the reason behind the shift, I need to acknowledge that our country is less religious than in the past.  I also need to recognize that we have become more diverse.  A certain percentage of the population comes from religious traditions that do not recognize the birth of My Savior.  I would not think of celebrating the birth of Mohammed, so why would I expect them to share the joy over Jesus birth? 

Instead of focusing on a “red cup” I believe we need to shift the emphasis to ourselves and our personal celebrations.  How do you plan to prepare for Christmas this year?  We are coming up on the season of Advent.  The intent of Advent is that it be a season of repentance.  It is a time when we contemplate on why the Savior had to come in the first place.  We are sinners in need of a Savior.   That Savior came in the form of a Baby born in a manger.  That should be a reason for joyful celebration, not finger-pointing and blame.  

One of the faults that Millennials have with the church is that we tend to be known more for what we are against, than what we are for.  From a biblical perspective that is “focusing on the speck in our neighbors eye, instead of the plank in our own” (Matthew 7:3).  My prayer is that we might be more joyful during this Advent-Christmas Season.  Our joy should not be confined to worship services and even family celebrations. If we attempt to live the “Spirit of Christmas,” perhaps the world will begin to see and understand the significance of Jesus birth.  Instead of focusing on “red cups,” we need to make “Christ the Center” of our Christmas.  

For All the Saints

I am writing this blog on All Saints Day, 2015.  In many ways All Saints Day is one of my favorite days on the year.  I view it as a very personal sacred observance.  Festivals like Christmas and Pentecost that I long to celebrate corporately, but All Saints Day is a quiet day of personal reflection.  I consider those who have gone before me.  Through their words and actions they have left spiritual footprints that I continue to follow today.   As I think about it, one of those spiritual giants created my appreciation All Saints Day and the entire liturgical calendar.   William Huener was pastor of Immanuel Lutheran Church in Downers Grove, Illinois.  Bill was my teammate for the seven years.  Bill had a passion for the liturgical calendar and perhaps my zeal for the festivals like All Saints Day can be traced back to him. 

Some of those saints in my life impacted me professionally.  Into that group I would place my departed friends Larry Brandt and Jack Giles.  Mark Diefenthaler is another individual who left an impact on my.  Mark was a college classmate and later a good friend in the ministry.  Mark’s professional ministry was cut short by a tragic accident that left him a shadow of his former self.  In spite of his limited abilities, Mark continued to try to find ways to share the faith. 

Other saints are departed family members.  My aunt, Phyllis Ulbrich, in particular comes to mind.  Aunt Phyllis was my godmother.  Since she never married, it was almost like having a second mom only I never had to worry about her disciplining me.  Rather, she would like me know in a gentle way how she was disappointed in me.  She was also the one who sent me care packages when I was in college.  My maternal grandparents, Ed and Helen Ulbrich, both left an impact on me.  Grandpa was always a listening ear and grandma the ultimate example of dedication and compassion.  In many ways I have two departed fathers; my dad, and my father-in-law, Gilbert Brown.  My dad tried to be friends with everyone.  He was also a great model of unconditional love.  Gilbert Brown was someone who supported and encouraged me.  He took an interest in my ministry, but was also quick to offer insights and gentle advice. 

Not all the Saints in my past were my elders or peers.  One who comes to mind is Margy Heyse.  I only knew Margy for a short time, nine months to be exact.  Margy was a young lady with a dynamic faith, a glowing smile and boundless energy.  Her parents were members of Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Dundee, Illinois.  Margy had graduated from Valparaiso University but was unable to find a job in her chosen field.  As a result she had been the part-time youth director at Bethlehem until I arrived to fill the position full-time.  She continued to work beside me as a volunteer, until one day she walked into my office to tell me she wanted to go into full-time youth ministry.  That led to a position as a youth staffer for the North Wisconsin District.  Her term was short.  She was the victim on a drunk-driving accident in November of 1980.  Margy was had a contagious faith and one of her favorite expressions was, “We are Easter people and hallelujah should always be our song.”  If she sensed you were having a down day, she would try to turn things around through that expression.

 

My list could go on and on, and I am sure you probably have a similar list.  I would hope that you would reflect on those individuals and the heritage of faith they have left behind.  Those recollections should not be limited to one day a year.  I would also encourage you to consider what imprints you are leaving behind.  That is what passing the torch of faith is about.   

Change or Die: That is the Question

One of the respected voices when it comes to the church and ministry in a changing world is Thom Rainer.  Thom Rainer is the current president and CEO of LifeWay Christian Resources, an entity of the Southern Baptist Convention in Nashville, Tennessee.  He and his son, Jess Rainer, wrote one of the early books on the millennial generation.  One of his most recent books is Autopsy of a Deceased Church. Considering that title, I was not surprised by one of his recent quotes: “Unfortunately, when faced with a life or death choice, most churches end up choosing death over change and life.”  The comment was included in an article on how an aging church can begin to change. 

My experience tends to reinforce that statement.   As I drive around north Dallas I see a lot of large churches that now stand vacant, or almost empty.  I recall a visit with one young pastor who had been assigned out of seminary to a once vibrant church.  As you drive by the church the facilities still look impressive, and include a large education building.  When he informed me that he had responsibility for youth and children’s ministry I pictured an exciting program teeming with kids.  I was shocked at his comments, “I have been there six months and am exhausted from searching the closets looking for kids.  They do not need a youth pastor, but they have always had one so I occupy the office.”  He went on to inform me that worship attendance averaged less than one hundred.  It was only because some of the members had deep pockets that they managed to stay open.    The neighborhood around the church has changed, but obviously the ministry of the church had not.

Resistance to change is something I know too well.  I spent most of my adult life ministering to teenagers and their families.  In every case I was called to serve in churches that had lots of history and tradition.  Teenagers tend to be agents of change, willing to push the envelope.  I was often perceived as the “front person” for that change.  Early in my ministry I found myself in Cape Girardeau, Missouri.  I was serving the “mother church” in a town of less than 40,000 with five Lutheran Churches.  Talk about traditions!  That congregation was only a few years from holding its last regular service in the German Language.  It was into that setting that we introduced guitars and contemporary worship.  It was a rocky road but today Trinity is still a thriving church that offers contemporary worship, in addition to traditional services.

Thom Rainer offered some ideas on how aging church can reverse the trend.  The first tip sounds pretty simple: successful ministry in a church begins with the power of prayer.  The second tip also sounds easy: churches who are reaching young adults have seniors who are intentionally making relationships with younger Christians.  Two simple steps: Set a goal to change and then commit that goal to the Lord, then go out a seek relationships.  Unfortunately it often can be more of a challenge.  How do we build relationships with young adults?  I believe it starts with a change in attitude.  Think about it, you probably have contact with young people.  Perhaps they are coworkers or neighbors.  Others might be those we intersect with casually; the clerk at the convenience store or the receptionist who greets us when we visit the doctor or dentist. 

I would add another hint; stop thinking of every young person you meet as a potential church member and see them rather as a lost soul.  We need to move from the traditional model of church membership to a missional lifestyle that allows us to be Jesus in the world.   When we live that lifestyle it permeates other aspects of our lives.  In the end, that is what the church is.  The church is not a building, or even a group of believers.  The church is individual disciples of Jesus Christ living out the mission that He initiated. 

Millennials Vote for Bernie

As I have shared in the past, that while Millennials are not always politically engaged they will make their voice heard when the issue concerns them.   Presidential elections are just such an issue.  For that reason we need to take their opinion on the presidential candidates seriously.  So, how do you feel about a president who admits to socialist leanings?  That’s right.  Bernie Sanders is the leading candidate among young voters.  I had read one survey done by the Millennials website, Ypulse, and I thought that make sense because they are a voice for the young generation.  Now United Press International (UPI) has published the results of a similar survey that confirms the results.  Bernie Sanders garnered 54% compared to second place Hillary Clinton (26%).  That is pretty decisive.

The realization that we might actually elect an individual who views themselves more as a socialist than and champion of capitalism sent me back to my government textbook.  Socialism can be defined as any of various economic and political theories advocating collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods.  Capitalism is just the opposite, with corporate or private ownership.  The fact that our nation was built on the free-enterprise, capitalist philosophy leaves me troubled when I hear the word “Socialist.”

So what is behind this strong shift to the political left?  Let’s examine the way that Millennials think:

They are the generation that has endorsed the legality of drugs, same-sex marriage and have created a competitive world through social media.

They want jobs, affordable education and security for their future.

The typical millennial is well aware that most politicians are full of hollow words, broken promises and they all have a certain flair for public relations.

In the final analysis; Millennials want more for themselves.  I recently heard one of my peers refer to them as the “Me-lennials.”  They want political leaders who share their value system and are responsive to their needs.  Bernie Sanders is the closest to that.  In fact, you could make a case that he is the only candidate who speaks to those under the age of thirty. 

Fortunately we are still a full year away from the presidential election.  I would like to think that the next twelve months are an opportunity to make a difference.  If you are uncomfortable with a political trend, now is the time to make your voice heard.  It does not happen through rallies that proclaim a more conservative agenda.  It happens through relationship with those whose opinions differ from ours.  If we have two camps that are on opposite sides of the fence shouting at each other, nothing will change.  In the end the loudest voice will win.  When we venture into the enemy camp and engage them in conversation (note I did not say debate), we have an opportunity to influence.  Get to know the millennials in your network and listen to them.  In the process, they might actually listen and respect you and your opinion. 

Generation Gap

I am part of a volunteer program that provides hospitality service in the Dallas-Fort Worth community.  Because of the time commitment involved most of the volunteers are senior citizens who are retired.  As part of the program we are furnished with our uniforms. Since I joined the program we have worn a rather traditional jacket, with an optional vest.  The primary feature, however, is a cowboy hat.  I have always enjoyed wearing the uniform and often get comments, especially about the hat.

 

About a year ago we were informed that we would be getting new uniforms within two years.  Recently we were allowed to see images of what the new uniforms would look like.  Last week I attended a meeting where we were allowed to make comments.  One of my male colleagues actually modeled a prototype of the uniform.  In my mind the new apparel looks sharp.  If the changes come to fruition the men will be wearing light gray business suits, with a white shirt and a bright orange tie, but no hats.   In my mind the women have a lot of options, one of which is a dress in a similar shade of orange as the men’s ties.  Alternatives are similar gray slacks or skirts with a white blouse.   While I sincerely liked the new look, many of my colleagues were not happy.  Many in fact were angry and borderline irate.  They like the traditional look of the current apparel.  One gentleman commented that with the bright colors (orange tie and matching scarf for the women), we looked like clowns.  In the process of the discussion it was revealed that much of the decision was made by younger members of the organization.  The motive was to update our look to appeal to the clientele we are supposed to serve. 

Based on my experience in attempting to help older adults understand the shift in culture, I felt compelled to comment.  We might be volunteers but we are still in the service business.  It is important for us to project an image that appeals to those we desire to serve.  What we are wearing should not be what we like.  Rather, we should consider what others find appealing.  Their needs should come before ours. 

As I think about it, there are some parallels between my experience with my fellow volunteers and the church.  I often hear similar complaints from older church members, referencing change.   How can we worship using that style of music, or how can we have a church without having a Sunday school?  Uniforms: What is this with our pastors wearing an open-collar shirt, and people attending church in jeans? 

The reality is change is going to happen, so deal with it.  If we only think in terms of what we feel comfortable with, we are going to have a dwindling audience to appeal to.  In the case of the church, we can only anticipate even more empty pews in the future.

IT'S NOT ABOUT ME!

Perhaps you have seen the video of the young women taking “selfies” while attending a baseball game.  If you have not viewed it you can find it on my Facebook page.  The video is almost as funny as it is sad.  That the young ladies are so self-absorbed is what makes it disturbing.  In actuality I should not be surprised.  In fact, I am part of the problem.  Facebook and Twitter might be called “social media” but it is easy to make them personal promotional tools.  We post things about ourselves with the expectation that others will view them.  In the process we are putting the focus on ourselves.

 One of the characteristics that “experts” have tagged on Millennials is that they are self-absorbed.  Watching the video might reinforce that conclusion.  But, considering the way many of us use social media, I am not sure that cannot be said for our entire culture.  Makes me wonder if having a camera on my cellular device is a good idea, but then I do not recall the last time I took a picture with a camera.  I even have a selfie with my ninety-four year old mother.  I will show it to you if you just ask and no, I did not attempt to explain the term “selfie” to her. 

As I have shared before, one of the core values of our church, The Crossing Church-Dallas is “It’s not about me.”  It is based on Jesus’ total sacrifice.  His earthly ministry was all about meeting the needs of others.  With the exception of the times that he slipped off to for prayer and time with his Father, Jesus seems oblivious to his own needs. 

If there is to be change in the trend away from our societies narcissistic tendencies it needs to start with me.  I am going to make a new commitment to share less about my personal life, and more about my desire to impact the lives of Millennials.  I would encourage you to do the same. It's not about you.

THE BLAME GAME

Two Texas high school football players are at the center of a major controversy.  By now, you have probably seen the video of the two players violently and intentionally knocking down a referee.  I have watched video numerous times and am still shocked.  What is even more shocking is their excuse.  The two players, cleaned up in suits and ties, appeared on Good Morning America.  They were penitent and express regret over their actions, but I really struggle with their comments.  They blamed their coach and stated that they were only following instructions.  Both players stated that they had heard the referee in question use racial slurs.  He told Hispanic players they, “needed to speak English.”  He also used the “N” Word in reference to one Black player.  Since their interview the coach has admitted to the action and has been fired by the school district.

I am still not buying into the boys' innocence.  My mother would never have bought it either.  Growing up I remember using the “he told me to do it” excuse.  Her response was usually something along the line of “If they told you to run across the freeway, would you do that too?”  The message is still clear: I need to be responsible for my behavior.  Blaming other people for my actions is a poor excuse.  If your boss or supervisor tells you to do something illegal, I doubt the authorities would buy your “He told me to” excuse.  No matter the circumstance, we have a moral, and God given, responsibility to the right thing. 

I do find some comfort in the player’s remorse, and even in their regret over what took place, but I think we are doing them and other teens a disservice when we allow them to use the “He told me to” excuse.  When mistakes are made, we need to take ownership.  Even as parents, we need to step back sometimes and swallow our pride; “I am sorry but I made a mistake.”  In doing some we are modeling good behavior and helping our teens and young adults to learn to take responsibility for their actions as well.

PLEASE DO NOT CALL ME A BABY BOOMER

I was born in 1946.  For decades my generation has been called the Baby Boomers.  Sociologists attached that label to those born after the end of World War II (roughly 1946) and 1964.  Like many others in my generation I was born right after my dad finished his tour of duty in the war effort.   In all my parents had four children, making us a pretty typical family for those days.  In the end there were a lot of us, so many that they needed to build more schools and develop a whole new support system to accommodate us. 

In reality, I have never felt comfortable being labeled as a Baby Boomer.  I was never a part of any protest movement, and certainly never got caught up in the “bigger is better” consumer mentality considered the norm for Baby Boomers.  As a professional church worker, I was always more concerned with serving others, than being served.  Now in retirement, I have no desire to sit around McDonalds in the morning drinking a “senior coffee” and talking about how the world has “gone to hell in a handbasket.”  Moving to a retirement community where I can hang out and play golf with other “old fogies” is not at all attractive to me.  And, when it comes to worship styles, I like the old hymns but really prefer contemporary praise songs on Sunday morning.  I also like to think of myself as being tolerant of those who choose alternative lifestyles or who share different belief systems.   Yes, I am a Lutheran, but I definitely am more weighted toward the Gospel than the Law side.  As a result: Please do not think of me as a Baby Boomer.  I do not think I fit, nor do I desire to fit, the label.

According to a recent report from Pew Research, I am not the only one who is resisting generational labels.  If Millennials are those ages 18-34, then only 40% of the members of that cohort consider themselves to fitting the mold.  In fact, one third (33%) of that generation consider themselves to be members of Generation X.  It is not difficult to understand why many of those born between 1980 and 2000 want to shun the “millennial” tag.  According to the same report, most of those surveyed felt that only 24% of millennials were responsible adults and only 36% thought the word “hardworking” described that generation.   It got worse: Just 12% of those polled saw millennials as being “religious” and 17% as them being “moral.”

The bottom line: If you are looking to market a particular product or service it would probably be helpful to look at a profile of what those adults under the age of 35 look like.  If you are looking to hire a new sales representative or engineer it might somewhat helpful to know the characteristics of that generation.  When it comes to sharing the Good News of salvation it is not going to be all that helpful.  In reality, we all carry the same label: Sinner.  Each of us in our own way is a broken child of God in need to the Good News of Jesus.  Are those born in the last two decades of the twentieth century self-absorbed, wasteful and greedy?  Maybe they are, but in the final analysis so are many in my generation and we still make up a majority of the membership in most churches. 

Get past the labels and think in terms of those who need Jesus.  And it starts by being Jesus to them.

An Early Lesson in Accepting Refugees

When I was in fifth grade three new students joined our class.  These were not your typical transfers from another school in Detroit or even kids moving from another city.  The three girls were refugees from Hungary.  I recall the preparation that went into welcoming them.  Our teachers tried to explain the political situation in their country that had forced families to flee their homeland.  While they also had gone through some orientation, I know it was difficult for them, I recall their English as being limited. They also dressed a little differently and ate some strange food at lunch.  Two of the three girls were still in my class by the time we reached seventh grade.  They had become acclimated and it would have been hard to distinguish them from any other student.

I thought of those students in recent days in light of way their home country of Hungary has treated the refugees from Syria and Afghanistan.  In case you missed the evening news, let me refresh you.  It is estimated that half the population of those countries have fled their homelands because of the political upheaval caused by ISIS.  Many of those refugees walked hundreds of miles on foot in search of freedom.  Some of them ended up in Hungary, where they were not welcomed warmly.  The image of thousands of them crowded into underground train stations was disturbing.  Even more troubling, many of them were herded unto trains with the promise that they were heading to Germany, only to be forced off the train and into refugee camps and hour into the trip. Today it was reported that 7,000 of the exiles had arrived in Germany and a similar number in Austria.  Other European countries have committed themselves to accepting more of the refugees.  Countries as far away as Australia, have announced that they too will open their borders to the emigrants.

I guess that is most troubling to me is the lack of compassion on the part of the Hungarian leaders.  It is especially disheartening in light of the political history of that country.  Sixty years ago our nation opened its doors to Hungarian refugees.   Even as grade school students we went out of our way to welcome those who had been misplaced because of political upheaval. 

I cannot help but think, “What would Jesus do?”  Jesus was all about compassion, “On seeing the crowd, he had compassion on them because they were like sheep without a shepherd.” (Mark 6:34)  We are surrounded by immigrants.  They are part of almost every part of our culture.  Many of them have strange accents, or dress differently.  Some of them come from very different religious traditions.  I truly believe we are call to not only accept them but embrace them.  We are called to be Jesus in a very diverse and changing world. 

                                                                                                                                          

MEMORIES OF KATRINA

It has been ten years since the Gulf Coast took the full attack of Hurricane Katrina.  Much of the focus was on the City of New Orleans, Louisiana.  That is a city I had visited on numerous occasions, having been involved three youth gatherings and a couple of conferences there.  I grieved as I saw the city destroyed and so many lives impacted.

The reality of the tragedy impacted our lives here in Dallas.  I was serving as the school counselor at Lutheran High School of Dallas at that time.  Within a week of the tragedy we accepted our first Katrina refuge.  In time, we would take in four students.  Two of those students were with us for only a matter of weeks, as their families moved back to Louisiana.  Another finished the semester with us an then moved to be with family in another part of the country.  The fourth student finished the year with us.  That student and the struggles of his family still bother me ten years later. 

Within weeks, the decision was made to send a team of students and other volunteers to New Orleans.  Our principal and several faculty members accompanied them.  I was the varsity basketball coach and the trip would have conflicted with our practice schedule so I was not able to go. It did create a dilemma for me because two of my players wanted to go.  I had penciled in both players to have significant roles.  One even served as captain.  The mercy mission was scheduled for just days before our first game.  The athletic director left the decision up to me.  It was easy; the needs of others always take precedent. 

National tragedies such as Hurricane Katrina make headlines, and always arouse a response of mercy and compassion.  When the pastor of our church at the time put out an appeal for blankets for  the hundreds of refugees who were housed at Reunion Arena in Dallas, we had filled a trailer with new blankets by two that afternoon.   Donating goods and money is easy.  We can even donate on line or by using a phone app.  When lives are disrupted or even threatened, a response of mercy is the thing to do, but what about the day to day heartbreaking tragedies?  Thousands of children In our city go to bed hungry each night.  There are hundreds of homeless people in our city.  Almost every neighborhood has senior citizens who might be lonely or in need for friendship.  The manner in which we respond to all needs send a message to our children and teens.  Believe me, they see the needs and are waiting to see how we react.. 

Friendships: From the Well to the Drive-In to Facebook

I recently spent time visiting my family in Michigan.  I cannot go back to Detroit this time of year without getting a little melancholy.  I have a lot of memories from growing up in Motown in the sixties.  Many of those recollections surround summers when I was a teenager, especially those years after my friends and I had the freedom of being able to drive.  Our favorite hangout was a drive-in called Dunkin’ Burger.  If you have seen the movie American Graffiti you get the picture.  Dunkin’ Burger or the local Big Boy was our Mel’s Drive-In.  The atmosphere was always festive in the summer, especially on weekends.  The local drive-ins always featured hot cars and cute girls.  Someone always had a radio playing loud through the speakers in their car.  WXYZ was the station of choice.  The local drive-in was a place to see old friends and make new ones. 

Another gathering place was our front porch.  On week nights my friends from the neighborhood would stop by for conversation, a cold soda and some of my mom’s chocolate chip cookies.  Usually the baseball game played somewhere in the background.  Again the sense of community was what brought us together.  People have always looked for a central spot that could serve as a place where community could be nurtured.  In Jesus’ day, I sense it was the town well.  Everyone needed water, and with it came some friendly conversation.  Like the 60’s drive-in, you could hear the latest gossip and always find a listening ear. 

Today, social media and texting has replaced the town well and the local drive-in as the favorite gathering spot for teens.  It is easy to find fault with what we might see as “virtual friendship.”  How can you have a conversation with someone without eye contact?  The reality is that the needs are the same.  According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, the need for community comes right behind the basic need for air, food, water and security.  Times change and so has the way we meet that basic need for companionship.

Yes, I also recall some of those discussions with my parents.  Somehow, they could not understand the reason I needed the car to hang out at a hamburger joint.  Or why when I got home from a night of “cruising” my response to their question of what I had been doing was, “nothing.”   Today’s teens and young adults should never have to explain why they spend so much time texting and checking social media; they are just doing what comes naturally.

Time to Break Out of the Lutheran Bubble

I try to avoid creating debates on Facebook, but I inadvertently started one last week.  I shared a report from Pew Research on racial diversity among various church bodies in the United States.  In reality, it probably should be stated “lack of diversity among religious groups because that is what exist.  In a sad statement the denomination that I am affiliated with, The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod, was near the bottom.  The LCMS is 95% white, with Blacks (2%) and Hispanics (2%) making up most of the balance.  One of the two religious groups to fall below the LCMS was the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) which is 96% Angelo.

When it came to be being racially diverse, The Seventh Day Adventists led the way; 37% Angelo, 32% Black and 15% Hispanic.  Surprisingly, Muslims are more diverse than they appear.  Whites make up the largest percentage of Muslims (38%), with an equal percentage of Asians and Blacks (28%).   There is a strong Hispanic presence in the Catholic Church (34%), compared to 59% of Whites.  The United Methodist Church was rank just a little about Lutherans, being 94% White.

None of this surprised me.  If I walked into any Lutheran Church in the country I would expect to be greeted by a congregation of white people.  It has always been that way, after all “Bird of a feather, flock together.”   The church where I grew up in Detroit was that way.  For many years I could go back and even see the same familiar face.  It felt very comfortable, but is also very unlike the rest of our country.

We live in Texas, perhaps one of the most racially diverse states in the country.  Hispanics make up 38% of our population.  Whites are still the majority 44%, but the prediction is that within fifteen to twenty years we will be the minority.  Blacks make up 12.4% of the Texas population, with 4.3% being Asian.  If you visit the Rio Grande Valley, you will discover that it feels like Mexico.  Spanish is the dominant language and that culture is pretty ingrained.

 

On another note, the church I currently attend worships in the fine arts building at Dallas Lutheran School.  Ironically, the Buddhist Temple of Dallas is located right next store.  Because their parking is limited, we have to share a parking lot.  Observation: they have better attendance than we do (probably more than any Lutheran Church in the Dallas area) and they are very racially diverse.  Our pastor is constantly reminding us that we need to be good neighbors.

Jesus’ command was to “make disciples of all nations.”  It was not to “gather behind locked door with people who are like us.”  I am not worried about the church surviving, but I am worried about our future growth.  I am also concerned about our image.  How does the rest of the world view us? 

We are called to be the Christ representative in the world, and the reality is that world is becoming more diverse.    In some ways the millennials are a step ahead of us one this one.  Most of them have gone to school with people from a variety of cultures.  If they attend, or have attended, a major university there is a good chance they have experienced a “global community” without leaving campus.  Maybe, in this case we can learn something from millennials.  We need to think and live globally.

Kortni's Last Request

It's been four years since the death of Kortni Marshall.  I thought it was time to again honor her last request.  This is a blog that first was posted on August 4, 2011.

The realities of our sinful world have hit me hard over the last week.  On Friday night my brother, Jim, called to tell me of the death of his wife's nephew.  Jason was only thirty, but had a hard life.  His mother deserted the family when he was a child and he struggled with a bi-polar like disorder.  Jason also battled the demons of addiction.  He spent time in prison, but was finally putting things back together.  He was in a halfway house and had even reconnected with his family.  They found him dead Friday afternoon.

On Saturday I got news of the sudden death of one of my former Lutheran High students. Kortni Marshall and her twin sister, Kimberly, were in our daughter Katie's class.  My memories are of a smiling, pixie-like face.  Kortni was too innocent, almost naïve, but always full of life.  There was another side to Kortni.  Like Jason, she fought the demons of addiction.  Her last requested is posted on the Dallas Lutheran Alumni page on Facebook.  "Tell everyone.  Addiction is real, and it's a disease that can kill you."

Drugs and alcohol are a reality in the teenage world.  The choices kids make can lead to tragedy and heartbreak later on.

Two realities:

The average teenager has their first experience with alcohol during the middle school years.  Most of the time it takes place in an unchaperoned home environment. Alcohol is considered to be a "gateway drug."  Kids who try alcohol in any form are at risk for trying other drugs..

While drugs have been an issue since I was in college, the culture is much different today.  The marijuana available today is twenty times stronger than the stuff smoked in the sixties and seventies.  It's also usually laced with other drugs that are designed to create dependence.

Kortni was a baptized and redeemed child of God.  She now rests in Jesus strong arms.  The demons can harm her no more.  Just remember her last request.  Please talk about this issue with your teens.  "Addiction is real and it's a disease that can kill you."  I only wish Kortni was still here to deliver the message personally.

Who Likes the Iran Nuclear Deal?

There has been a strong negative reaction to the recent Iran nuclear deal.   One citizen group has even bought commercial television time to express their displeasure.  The deal between the Iranians and five other nations limits the Middle East country's nuclear program. According to Pew Research, among the 79% of American who have heard about the agreement only 38% approve of it.  On the other hand, 48% disapprove of the plan, with 14% having no opinion.

Much of the skepticism centers on the Iranian leadership's commitment to the terms. Among those familiar with the agreement; 38% have no confidence in Iran's leadership, and 35% have "not too much" confidence.  The skepticism seems to increase with age: 56% of those over age 65 and 54% of those ages 50-64 disapprove of the pact.  Among those ages 30-49, 42% disapprove.  Millennials are the only age group who approved of the agreement. Among millennials (ages 18-30) 42% approve and 39% disapprove.

As a general rule, millennials are not "news junkies" like many older Americans.  In response to the the question, "Have you heard about the recent nuclear agreement?" only 21% of those ages 18-29 reported the had "heard a lot.  Even more surprising, 43% had "heard little.: It is not just a matter of not being in touch with current events.  There are other factors that we need to consider when trying to understand young adults and their position on this issue.

Young people are idealistic.  When it comes to conflict they, probably more than any other age group, take a "can't we all just get along attitude."  They also want to see the world change and believe they can make a difference..

They are collaborators.  They want to network with others and work together for the common good. In this case they see the fact that five countries, plus Iran, can work together to agree on anything as a positive thing.

They have grown up in a diverse culture. In most cases millennials have grown up with peers who come from a variety of cultures and backgrounds.  Some of their classmates, even their friends, who might have roots in Iran or other Middle Eastern countries.

They have been taught tolerance.  They are much more patient and accepting when it comes to working with people who are different.

As older adults, we need to seek to listen and seek to understand them.  Only when we do that can we hope to make a difference in their lives, and it the end make a difference in the world.

Let the Dead Bury their Dead, Except...

The town of Famersville, Texas is in the news these days.  Farmersville is a town of about 4,000 located in Collin County, just north of Dallas.  To put things in perspective, the suburb of Plano is also in Collin County.  There are five Islamic Centers and 22,000 Muslims living in Collin County.   To this point they have had no place to bury their dead.  The Muslims have purchased property in Farmersville for that purpose.  The local residents, led by one local pastor, have objected.  There is a Buddhist Center in town and the Mormons recently built a church; no objections.  A Muslim Cemetery: “No way.”  “The concern for us is the radical element of Islam,” David J. Meeks, pastor of Bethlehem Baptist Church, said of the Islamic Association’s planned cemetery west of the city.

There are Muslim Cemeteries in Dallas, Fort Worth and adjacent Denton County, but none for the Muslims in Collin Country.  I suspect that some of this might be associated with the “radical element” Pastor Meeks referred to, but my guess is some of it is driven descriptions of Muslin burial practices.  Islamic practices forbid the embalming of the dead.  The bodies are placed in coffins after being washed in warm water.  They then are buried six to seven feet underground.  Texas State law does not require that bodies be embalmed before burial, so the Muslims are not breaking any rules.  Islamic law does not even allow for prayers to be said over the body, so there will be no religious services held at the cemetery.  It will just be a burial ground. 

Why am I writing about this?  It serves as a perfect example of one reason unbelievers, especially millennials, have a negative opinion of the church.  Christian Churches are often known more for what they are against, than what they stand for.  The fact that this campaign is led by a local clergyman is especially troubling. 

The response from the Islamic Community has been enlightening.  “We’re talking about a community that wants to have a place to grieve closer to home,” spokesman, Abdur-Rashid stated. “This is an opportunity to have a good interfaith dialogue and inter-community dialogue.”  

What a unique opportunity.  Muslim seek a dialogue on a religious issue.  Seems to me that would provide Christians with an equal opportunity to not only talk about our burial rights, but the faith and hope element that accompany them.  Are we going to convert any Muslims… Probably not.  In this case that should happen through the way we live.  Personally I want to be known for what I believe and live for, not for what I stand against.  

The Upside... And Down Side to Traditions

I have very mixed memories of last summer.  A year ago about this time, Barb and I were in the midst of a road trip up north.  We saw a lot of family and came back with many memories. The time behind the wheel took its toll on my back.  About two weeks after returning home I woke up one morning with an excruciating pain in my left leg.  I managed to crawl down the steps to the family room where the recliner became my home for the next three weeks.  Being on my feet for any longer than 15 seconds became almost impossible.  The diagnosis was a bulging disc in my lower back. Three weeks of treatment by a chiropractor cured the problem.

While I was laid-up, the pain in my leg made even shifting positions in my recliner difficult. Sleeping was well nigh impossible because I could not get comfortable.  I could take ibuprofen and sleep medication, but even then rest would not come.  I discovered two friends, one old and one new, that got me through the difficult nights.  Each evening the pattern was the same.  I watched old episodes of situation comedies on Hulu (new friend) and then would open our copy of the "Red Lutheran Hymnal" (old friend).

I grew up with that hymnal.  My parents sang in the choir, so I would end up sitting in the pew (half-way back on the left side) with grandma.  George Kurz was the only pastor I knew.  He was a "three Life Saver" preacher.  When he got into the pulpit, grandma would offer me a spearmint Life Saver. It usually took three.  I don't remember much of what Pastor Kurz said, but I still can sing many of those hymns from memory.  While I was convalescing I sang them all; from "Open Now Thy Gates of Beauty" to "Jerusalem the Golden."

Hymns are that way.  My friend, Robert, and I sometimes sing them together.  I met Robert while he was in the hospital.  I was the chaplain and he became more than a patient.  Robert is a former football player (college and NFL).  When Robert moved to a rehabilitation center, he made me promise I would continue to visit.  Now I stop by his house at least once a week.  Robert only leaves his bed for doctor visits.  Robert grew up sitting next to his grandmother in church too.  It was a Methodist Church, so Robert knows a whole different set of hymns.  Even on the difficult days, those familiar words can bring a smile to his face.  Robert and I not only have very different faith traditions, but we have taken very contrasting paths.  I seldom miss attending church on Sunday, my guess is Robert has not entered a sanctuary in decades.  We both find comfort in the traditional hymns of our youth.

Unfortunately, those same traditions can become an obstacle.  When we become en-cultured, it can cause us to view our way as the only way.  We become so comfortable with hymns and liturgy, that we resist those things that disrupt our routine.  Even if we enjoy contemporary songs and a less formal worship style, we can still suffer the same syndrome.  We resist those things that push us outside our comfort zone.  This can effect our relationship with millennials.  They might not be able to relate our traditions.  There culture, interest and concerns might be very different than ours. Reaching out to them might push us outside our comfort zone.  That is okay.  It is what Jesus did and you can be assured He is standing with you in your ministry to those teens and young adults.

Relevant: The Church and Millennials

I normally do not use my blog to make personal announcements but I am making a exception because I have some exciting news to share.  As the title of my blog makes clear, I have a passion for millennials.  My last book, Passing the Torch, opened the door for the discussion on how the church has missed the boat when it comes to conveying faith and values to those born in the last two decades of the Twentieth Century.  Over the last year and a half I have been working on a new project which takes the issue of millennials and the church to a new level.  The project is titled Relevant: The Church and Millennials.  

I am now excited to announce that I have signed a contract to have the book published.  I will be working with Westbow Press, the self publishing arm of Zondervan - Thomas Nelson.  Zondervan - Thomas Nelson is the largest publisher of Christian books. Partnering with them is great from a marketing perspective.  The book will also be available on major book websites like Amazon.  It will also be available in all the various e-book formats, including Kindle and Nook.

So what can you expect from the book?  The first portion of the book will highlight all the factors that should make the church marketable to teens and young adults.  It starts with Grace, the unique gift that only a Christian can know and appreciate.  It also talks about how the sacraments, Baptism and The Lord's Supper, are exactly what millennials crave and need.  The second portion of the book will deal with some of the issue that prevents most churches from being effective at reaching millennials.

I anticipate the book being available sometime early this fall.  In the mean time I would appreciate your prayer for the success of this project.  The church is losing its teens and young adults.  It is not too late to reverse the trend.  Prayers will not be enough.  My hope is that church professional and lay leaders will use the book as a resource.  My desire is that it be a starting point in initiating change. As with my other projects, I will be available to talk about the book and the issues it addresses.  I would enjoy visiting with the leaders at your church on how to make your ministry to millennials more effective.

It starts with you.  Spread the word.  The church is still "Relevant!"

Reflecting on Traditional Marriage

At lunch after church yesterday our son and pastor, Mark, commented that I should have no problem coming up with an issue for my blog this week.  Indeed, the Supreme Court's decision on gay marriage last week is both monumental and disturbing. Like other Christians who still hold to the traditional definition of marriage, I grieve.  Social media has been alive as people on both sides react, sometimes in anger. I have commented on this issue in the past, but in light of the recent decision I felt a need to revisit. There are three factors I believe we need to keep in mind.

Jesus made it clear during his earthly ministry that there is to be a separation of church and state.  "Render to Caesar the things that are Caesar's and God the things that are God's." (Matthew 22:21) Governments often strays from the plan God has for us, because they do not operate according to biblical principles.  When those principles collide, it is the Christians responsibility to respect the decision but still bow to God's command.  As I understand it, the court's decision allows for just that; churches can decline to marry gay/lesbian couples based on their religious principles.

Secondly: Paul challenges the Romans, "Do not be conformed to the patterns of this world, but to be transformed by the renewing of your mind.  Then you will be able to test and approve what God will is - his good, pleasing, perfect will." (Romans 12:2)   The Bible is full of examples of individuals who were forced to live in pagan cultures, but continued to let their lights shine.  One of the best examples is Daniel and his contemporaries who lived in exile in Babylon.  The more they stood strong, the more their influence.  In this case our response should be to strive to make our traditional marriages stronger.  Christians homes must be models of both love and grace.  That, not our words, should be our testimony.

Thirdly: I do not know if you caught it, but  in the title I used the term, "traditional definition of marriage" and not "biblical definition."  Dallas Morning News columnist, Steve Blow, penned an interesting perspective yesterday.  Steve Blow is a Christian and often his commentaries reflect that.  In commenting on the court's decisions, he warned that those who attack it based on a biblical definition of marriage might have a problem.  He pointed out that the biblical perspective seems to evolve.  There are cases of polygamy and concubines.  In many cases, marriages were arranged.  Which definition of marriage do we use?  When I listen to those on the gay/lesbian side, they seem to be able to defend their lifestyle using scripture.

The one biblical principles that seems to be consistent is Grace.  We are called to love all people unconditionally.  Why?  Because God does.  Jesus died to for all people.  During his earthly ministry Jesus lived in a sinful, broken world.  He also loved the residence of that broken world.  What he found repelling was hypocrisy.  Before we call for those who are gay and lesbians to repent, we need to be ready to confess our sins as well.  When we celebrate grace, we bear the image of Christ and in time the world will get the message.

Reacting to the Charleston Tragedy

Like all Americans, I was shocked by the shooting that took place at the Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, South Carolina.  Nine people were murdered by twenty-one year old Dylan Roof.  There can be no doubt that this was a racially motivated hate crime. While I was appalled at the act, I was even more dismayed when I learned that Dylan had at least a casual connection to a faith community. His family are members of St. Paul Lutheran Church in Columbia, South Carolina.  While there is no indication as to how engaged life of the church Dylan was, we do know his sister was due to be married soon in the church; the wedding has since been cancelled.  The pastor of St. Paul, Rev. Herman Yoos, noted that after he visited with the family on Saturday, they decided to attend worship on the Sunday following the shooting.

I find any hate crime offensive.  The fact that it took place in a church context is an abomination. Churches are supposed to be sanctuaries.  If there is an irony in the killings in Charleston, it is that in the midst of the tragedy there is a message of peace and hope.  The congregation that is Emanuel AME Church gathered Sunday to mourn, but also to proclaim a message of hope.  Overcoming evil with faith in God was a theme throughout the service. The pastor called for justice but also declared that, "No evildoer, no demon in hell or on Earth can close the doors of God's church."

Emanuel AME church is not the first to suffer tragedy, and unfortunately it won't be the last.  In time of tragedy the community of believers needs to be united in a message of hope and forgiveness. A gun man broke into the Amish School in Pennsylvania a few years back and killed all the little girls. The victim's families responded by embracing the relatives of the shooter.  They shocked the world by announcing that they had forgiven the shooter.  That is scandalous in the eyes of the world, but makes total sense in the context of a Savior who from the cross proclaimed forgiveness toward those who put him there.

That is the message that must come through loud and clear each time the sanctity of the church collides with the brokenness of this world.   True peace and hope can only be found in the context of the Christian faith.  That is a message the world must hear.

Why do We Focus on Some Sins and Ignore Others?

I read a report on our nation's changing attitude toward the gay/lesbian issue.  The author of the study was Gregory Smith of Pew Research.  The question was: Would you be upset if your child was gay/lesbian?  The question was posed to over 2,000 Americans across the age groups.  As expected, the openness to gays and lesbians increased as ages decline.  Among the silent generation (roughly those over 65) 55% said they would be bothered, while 29% of millennials (ages 18-35) would be upset.  Boomer (ages 50-65) and members of generation X (ages 35-50) fell somewhere in between at 47% and 36% respectively.

There was one aspect of the study that bothered me.  It is the use of the term "upset."  There are lots of things that cause me concern and "upset" me.  The gay/lesbian issue is one of them, so as it is worded I probably would have said "yes."  But I am also concerned about our nation's declining values and economic disparity.   It troubles me that some people have substance abuse issues and others are addicted to pornography.   Bottom line: Any sin or violation of God's desire for his people troubles me.

It still troubles me when a young person who I have ministered to in the past announces to the world that they are gay/lesbian.  Several of my former students from Lutheran High are married to same sex partners.  Am I concerned and upset about that, yes, but I am also troubled when former students have substance abuse issues, experience broken relationships and divorce, or disassociate themselves with the church.   Sure, I am upset, concerned and troubled, but I still love and care about them.

That is where we have gone wrong as a church.  We are willing to tolerate some sins but choose to make a "big deal" out of others.  I recall one situation at a church I served years ago.  One of the lay leaders of the congregation had a serious drinking issue.  Most people knew it but we tolerated that and actually tried to protect him: Yes, even I drove him home on one occasion.  Then another "pillar of the church" had an affair that ultimately led to a divorce, and the entire congregational community ostracized him.

We are all broken people.  I have my spiritual struggles, and I regularly confess them to God.  I am grateful that I have a Savior who accepts me for who I am, and continues to empower me to become who he wants me to be.  I also am surrounded by family and friends who love me as well.  I am blessed to be part of a community that supports and encourages me.  I truly believe that is what the world desires.  We are all surrounded by brokenness.  Embrace those who are struggling with issues like their sexuality, or substance abuse.  Love them, and help them to grow in their relationship with the Savior who has the power to help them overcome the sins of this world.

So, What do we do With Caitlyn Jenner?

Almost nothing shocks me anymore.  So I must admit that I just wanted to yawn and move on after the news came out about Bruce Jenner's transition to Caitlyn.  Sure, he was an Olympic athlete, who was the picture of  physical fitness and masculinity when he appeared on the front of a Wheaties Box.  I guess his association with the Kardashian clan has caused him to remain in the gossip pages.  With a sex change, we could check another box on the list of scandalous acts.  Still, this one will not go away.

I opened the Dallas Morning News yesterday to find a front page article titled Free to be Themselves. There really were two separate stories, but the one I found most enlightening was on a new children's clinic that treat transgender children.  Children's Medical Center of Dallas has established the program.  "People have this idea that transgender people are just weird and awkward and troubled.  That is because historically people came out as trans-gendered adults when they spent so much of their lives depressed because they were not being themselves," noted Dr. Ximena Lopez.  Dr. Lopez is the director of the center and also a professor of pediatrics at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

I recall a conversation with my good friend, Liz Krause, a few years back.  Liz is a biology teacher, but she is also is a very traditional Lutheran when it comes to her theology.  I was looking for insight into the whole gay/lesbian issue.  OK, I will admit a bias, but I also knew that it came out of ignorance.  Liz set me straight in saying that, "Yes, some people are born that way."  As a result of that conversation I came to the conclusion that God loves gay/lesbian people the same way he loves those who are "straight."  The bottom line is we are all lost souls in need to a Savior.  Now I am called to accept those who are trans-gendered is the same way.

OK, I still will admit a level of discomfort.  I believe that is rooted in the belief that the gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender lifestyles go against God's desires for us.  Discomfort: that is nothing new due to the changes we have gone through when it comes to culture and values.  My pastor continues to remind me that I need to become comfortable with being uncomfortable.

I seriously doubt that any of us are ever going to have contact with Caitlyn Jenner, but it is also highly unlikely that we can avoid contact with someone in the GLBT community.  They might be a neighbor or someone we work with.  It might even be a member of your own family.  So, what do we do with them?  My response has to be to model what I see in The Gospels.  Jesus dined with such people.  He had conversations with such people.  He loved such people.   He viewed them as lost souls, and without a relationship with them there was no way for them to know the hope.  We also need to remember that it was the "religious authorities" who were most critical of Our Savior for associating with such individuals.   We also need to remember that he labeled those who sat on the side and criticized him as "hypocrites."

Jesus Grieved over Jerusalem, What about Your City?

There are a lot of new churches being planted in the DFW area.  Unfortunately, most of them are in the suburbs.  That causes me to ask: What about the city?  Many American consider themselves to be "city people." A good portion of those urban dwellers are millennials.  It is not just Dallas.  I recently read a magazine article about the revitalization of downtown Detroit, Michigan.  The new spirit in Motown is being led by millennials who want to live close to where they work.

A recent report from the Urban Land Institute profiles where millennials live.  It almost an even split between those who consider themselves "city people" (37%) and "suburbanites" (36%). Among minorities, things are a little more skewed in terms of urban living.  51% of Hispanic millennials and 47% of Black millennials consider themselves to be "city people."  From my perspective, the urban environment is a ripe mission field.  So, why are we not planting more churches in the city.

I will admit a bias when it comes to urban ministry.  Barb and I are part of a worship community that bills itself as "being passionate about the city."  Our son, Mark, is the lead pastor at the Crossing Church - Dallas.  Mark has an inbred love for the city and the "lost souls" who live there.  He spent seven years running New Hope Community Center in east Dallas.  When that ministry came to an end he felt called to plant a new church.  He looked at suburban communities but ended up planting a new Lutheran Church in the City of Dallas.  It is a challenge.

Church planting, even in the suburbs, can be difficult, but an urban ministry that focuses on reaching millennials has some unique challenges. Urban dwellers tend to live in apartments or condominiums. That can make it more difficult to connect them.  Many millennials  consider themselves spiritual but they are not anxious to connect with a church.  For the most part, millennials are also not big financial givers.  Many are saddled with college debts that limit their financial resources.  To make an urban ministry work  you need a core group of individuals who are willing to support the church and open to relating to individuals whose lifestyles and value system might be very different than theirs.

I truly believe it is time for the church to renew its commitment to the city.  If Jesus grieved over the City of Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37), I truly believe he is saddened at our response to urban ministry today.  Suburbanites need Jesus, but so do urban dwellers.

A Lesson in Entitlement

I spent the last five days serving as a marshal at the Colonial Golf Tournament.  For those not familiar with the role marshals play; we are there to assist the PGA professionals but also handle crowd control.  Golf Professionals are really finicky when it comes to noise when they have a club in their hand.  We try to insure the gallery is quiet while they are in the tee box and around the greens.  I serve on the team that works the 17th fairway and 18th tee box.  There can be a lot tension on Friday afternoon when players are contending to make the cut and again on Sunday when the winner is determined.

Most aspects of my duties are enjoyable.  I spot drives in the 17th fairway and control the crowd around the green.  We also handle the walkway that the players take between the 17th and 18th hole.  The duties in the 18th tee box involve controlling the crowd but also signaling the direction of the drives to the marshals down the fairway.  There are some aspects that are less enjoyable; dealing with disgruntled caddies is one.  Another is rude and unruly patrons.  There are corporate hospitality bleachers on 17.  Our task can become challenging late in the day when we are dealing with spectator who have been soaking up free booze all day.   Still, overall it is an enjoyable experience, and one I look forward to each year. 

There is one incident that I still carry with me from this year, and it did not involve a golfer or even an unruly spectator.  I was working the area around the 18th tee on Saturday.  My job was to control the gallery while the golfers were in the tee box.  The routine repeats itself each time a group reaches the tee.  "Hold your position.  Quiet please." I announce.  People normally respect that and respond accordingly.  In this case one man did not.  He continued to walk toward me.  I judged him to be in his mid-forties.  He carried himself with a degree of confidence and authority and he was dressed to match.  My best guess is that he was one his way to one of the hospitality suites where he was to serve as a host.  Whatever his agenda, he was not going to obey my command.  He was on a mission.  Golfers and their caddies can sense movement behind them and that is where he was headed.  I pointed at the man and motioned firmly for him to halt.  He finally did, but he was not happy.  He did stay motionless until the golfers had teed off, and then he let me have it.  "Don't do that to me again.!" he sneered.  "Again," I thought.  I sure hope I don't have to deal with you again, I thought. 

Entitlement: I would define it as the guaranteed right to certain benefits because of your status.  In the case of the middle-aged urban professional I encountered, he felt his status allowed him to be above the rules.  Like the guest at the banquet (Luke 14:8), he felt he deserved a special place at the banquet because of who he was. 

Two of the traits that many millennials disdain in Christians is a perceived arrogance and hypocrisy.  To them we can appear to have a sense of entitlement.  That is not a good thing when we have a Savior who preaches and models humility.  I am not sure of the faith status of the arrogant man on the 18th tee, but I know what God expects of me, and I would hope it applies to you as well.

Millennials and a Global Vision

I made an early morning trip to DFW Airport today.  Our daughter, Katie Seale, and husband John left before 7:00 AM to begin a seventeen day odyssey. They are flying to Kosovo to visit John's sister Connie who is a missionary-teacher.  There adventure will not end there;they will then head to Kenya.  John has a connection with that African nation having been part of Ndoto, a ministry to the children there.  Katie and John continue to sponsor one of those children. John, by the way, serves as director of operations of LINC-North Texas, a non-profit that, among other things, mentors academically at risk students in area public schools.

Later this week our daughter-in-law, Kristen Seals, will leave for three months in Zambia.  Kristen works for Family Legacy, a non-profit that is committed to the orphans of Zambia.  Family Legacy operates a Christian academy but also conducts a summer camp.  Our son, Mark, will join Kristen for ten days in July.  This will be Mark's second trip and he has a faith connection with the ten boys he has arranged sponsorship for.  Mark spent seven years operating New Hope, a community center in east Dallas.  In his current role, as lead pastor at The Crossing Church-Dallas, Mark continues to have a contagious passion for the lost in the city.

Mark, Kristen, Katie and John are all millennials.  Unlike many of their peers they are spiritually connected.  One characteristic they do share with others their age is a desire to make a difference.  It is no coincidence that millennials lead the way when it comes to being entrepreneurs.   Many of those ventures involve non-profits that seek to make a difference.  We can write them off as being idealistic, but there is no denying that they are much less materially focused than baby boomers and members of generation  X.  Many of them prefer to live in urban environments, rather than the suburbs.  Some would rather take public transportation and use Uber than own a car.

Millennials have grown up in a very different world.  They have never experience life without a commuter, and probably have no idea what a set of encyclopedias look like. The world is a mouse-click away, and they can relate to friends around the world via skype. Katie made arrangements beso that she can text us from wherever she is on this trip.  Travel is easy and even affordable. There is almost no part of the world that cannot be reached out of DFW Airport. Unlike many members of my generation who love to travel for leisure, or to see historic sights, millennials want to travel to make a difference.  Maybe, just maybe, we could learn something from them.

The State of Christianity in America

The state of the church in America was front page news today.  Pew Research released their most recent study on our nation's religious landscape.  The data compared church affiliation in 2007 with 2014.  It was a very comprehensive study; 35,000 American were polled. Christianity is still the predominant faith, with 70.6% of those polled claiming they were Christian, but that is a almost an 8% drop since 2007.  Protestant denominations had the greatest drop, almost 5%.  That translates to about 5 million adults walking away from the church over the last seven years.  We might want to credit some of the decline to people leaving for other non-Christian faiths, but that is not the case.  The percent of people claiming Hinduism and Buddhism as their faith remained consistent.  There was a .5% increase in the percentage of Muslims, but they still make up less than 1% of the population.  Where was the increase?  The percentage of people claiming to be Atheist doubled to 3.1%.  Agnosticism also grew from 2.4% to 4%.  The biggest increase was among the people claiming no faith in particular, 15.8% compared with 12.1% in 2007.  Pew Research labeled these individuals as "nones."   When you consider the way millennials are leaving the church, and the reality that the number of elders and baby boomers will continue to decline, there is no reason to think the trend will reverse.

It is easy to grieve over these statistics, but then the reality that Christianity is losing ground is nothing new.  If you take a count of the number of young people, roughly ages 18-34, in church on an average Sunday, the truth sets in.  But I, for one, believe the trend can be reversed.  It does mean changing our focus.  For too long many churches have been inwardly focused.  In the mind of many millennials, mainline churches are viewed more as social clubs.  Members enjoy the fellowship aspect of membership.  In my opinion, the solution requires a change in focus.  Dissolve the senior adult ministry and encourage the older adults to seek relationship with young people.  Turn the woman's mission society into an outreach ministry to millennials.  Initiate a mentoring program, linking older adults with teens and college students.  We cannot do it alone, but through the power of the Holy Spirit hearts can be changed and the trend reversed.

Processing the Baltimore Riots

Earlier this year it was Ferguson, Missouri but this past week the nations eye's were focused on Baltimore.  Once again it was triggered by an alleged incident of police brutality that led to the death of a black man.  Much has been made about the reason behind the violence and destruction brought about by the unruly mob.  In the midst of that one human interest story drew our attention.  Toya Graham, a mom who observed her son among the rioters, went to the streets to retrieve her son.  The tape of her dragging him home by the collar caused many to ask; where were the other parents?  If moms and dads held their kids accountable we would not have this problem, they reason.  Others have blamed it on pure "lawlessness" and kids just using Freddie Gray's death as an excuse.

I would like to purpose another theory.  The urban environment has taken its toll on individuals to the point were they see no hope and no future for themselves.  The "pull yourself up by the boot straps" message does not work for those on the edge of despair.  The problem is that nobody seems to listen to their cry for help, or even show they care.  Unfortunately the church, who should be Jesus in the City, is usually no where to be found.  In the case of Baltimore, like many other urban cities, the churches fled to the suburbs long ago.  My home town of Detroit might be the ultimate example.  I recently took a window tour of Motown with my brother.  We drove by dozens of abandoned churches and cathedrals.  When the churches abandoned the city they left behind hopelessness and despair.  Those who live in the midst of urban poverty as left to ask, "Does no one care?"


I learned an important lesson during my years working with teenagers. If there was anger or frustration it could usually be resolved if someone listened.  Once the individuals or group knew their concerns were heard, the level of angst diminished.   It was the first step toward resolving the issue.  In the case of urban unrest, the church should be taking the lead in showing compassion for those living in despair.  In many cases the church, and the presence of Christ, is missing.  It starts by just listening to their voices.

The Future of DCE Ministry. The future of the Church.

I am headed to Austin, Texas tomorrow to join in the celebration of the retirement of my friend, Paul Krentz.  For over nineteen years Paul has served the Texas District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod as a Mission and Ministry Facilitator (MM&F) for Area B (roughly northeast corner of Texas).  Paul and I are both trained and certified as directors of Christian education (DCE).  Under the previous structure, I served the Texas District as parish assistant for youth and education on a part-time basis.  God had other plans for me under the new structure and I moved on to Lutheran High School of Dallas, instead of moving into one of the MM&F positions. 

In some ways I am melancholy about Paul's retirement, because I fear it is the end of an era.  In the 80's and 90"s many DCE's served at both a district and national level.  Some served in MM&F type positions, others were on the Synod's youth ministry staff or were curriculum writers.  One even served as special assistant to the Synod President.   DCE's are trained educators   Some work with children, youth and their families.  Others specialize in adult education.  Many stand on the cutting edge in terms of goal setting and developing strategies.  That skill set should make them attractive to district and synod leaders who were looking for individuals who could equip others.  That has changed over the last ten years.  Paul was one of the few DCE's still serving on a district staff.  To my knowledge, there are none on the national staff.  When those positions are open these days, they filled with pastors.

Do not get me wrong: I am not anti clergy.  How could I be when both of our sons are pastors?  The problem I see is that most pastors are generalist.  Granted, they do have the theological training, but most do not have the background in education and youth ministry.  I would think that in putting together a staff on both a local, district and national level you want individuals who bring a variety of gifts.  Who better understands the needs of millennials?

Some of my DCE peers have even expressed concern about the future of the office of DCE.  One went to far as to say they would not recommend any young person enrolling in a DCE program.  "There is no future for DCE ministry."  If that is the case, I am sad.  I grieve because of the children, teens and parents who might not have the benefit of having a specialist who can minister to them.

Don't Worry about the Competition

We had trouble finding a place to park at church yesterday.  We attend a small, but growing, church plant that worships in the fine arts building at Dallas Lutheran School. On a typical Sunday there are less than fifty of us.  To my surprise, yesterday the streets were parked full and a policeman was directing traffic.  Explanation: The Buddhist Center of Dallas is located next store to the school and yesterday they were celebrating the Buddhist New Year.  The Buddhist Center has an agreement with the school that allows them to use the parking lot, so this week we had to share space.  In this age of religious diversity, it is not  uncommon to find Buddhist, Muslim and Hindu worship centers around Dallas.  Of course, there have always been Mormon houses of worship, along with Christian Science and Jehovah Witness meeting halls.

There are some who find this trend disconcerting.  After all, we think of ourselves as being a "Christian" nation.  I read a report from Pew Research last week that might add fuel to the fire.  Christianity is growing, but not at the rate of other world religions, especially Islam.  The report projected population growth in a forty year period from 2010 to 2050. Islam, in particular, is the fastest growing group.  In 2010, Muslims represented 23% of the world population, but that will swell to 29% by 2050.  Christianity will grow slightly, but because of the increased population in other parts of the world, the percentage of Christians in the world will remain constant at 31.7%. There are some among us who have expressed concern over the growth of Islam in the United States. Some have expressed fear that the Muslims really are intent on taking over our country.

What I find most troubling about this is the fact that Christianity seems to be on the defensive.  In my mind this runs counter to what Jesus intended.  After all, in the Great Commission Jesus commanded his followers to "make disciples of all nations."  (Matthew 28:19)  Our goals should be to share the Good News with all.  We have the only real hope.  Only Christianity is based on the belief that God came down to man, rather than man trying to reach God.  We have a living Savior who forgives our sins.  In marketing terms, we have the ultimate product.  The disappointing thing is that we cannot even maintain our young followers.

In my mind we need to focus on being Jesus' disciples in this world, and not worry about the competition.