Filling in the Family Tree

I have spent the last five days in Michigan visiting my mom and reconnecting with my brothers and their families.  Winter storm Jayden has delayed my return to Dallas.  For the second day in a row I received a text that my flight was cancelled.  I am warm, safe, and contented, other than having to stretch an extra couple of days out of the clothes I packed. It has been decades since I had to wait out a winter storm in Michigan. It is a reminder why we moved south; winter in Texas lasts a couple of days instead of dragging on for months

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I did have another item on my agenda this trip.  Our son-in-law, John Seale has been working on a family tree.  The branches on my mother’s side of the family are a little slim.  I was hoping to fill in some of the blanks.  I was not disappointed.  It is such a blessing that both my mom and my uncle, Don Ulbrich, have fantastic memories at ages 97 and 95 respectively.  My mom has trouble hearing, and can barely see, but get her talking about family or church history she has a fantastic memory.  This trip the stories just kept coming.  I spent six hours with my mom last Thursday and was never bored. 

I am reminded that the members of Generation Z (those presently teenagers and younger) have a real interest in the legacy of those who have gone before them.  They are motivated by a desire to grow from their experiences and in turn make the world a better place. 

I would encourage you to share your story with your grandchildren.  I think you will discover that while your own children are not that interested in your family tree your grandchildren might be more receptive.  I see a real hope in today’s teens and young adults. 

The Generation Gap Revisited

It is nothing new to talk about a generation gap.  As child of the 60’s, I was very aware that not only was my taste in music vastly different than my parents and grandparent but so were my views on many social issues and political issues.  The racial issue was probably the best example.  I was quick to see the lines of demarcation when it came to where Blacks could live.  I was well aware of the fact that when I went downtown there were certain shops and restaurants where Blacks were not welcome.  Most of my peers shared the same opinion.  We stood against racism and the Vietnam War.  For the most part it was “the radical youth” vs. “out of touch older adults.”

There is not denying that there is a generation gap today.  Millennials (roughly those born from 1980-1996) and members Generation Z (Born after 1996) tend to have much different perspectives not just on gender issues but on whether or not to build a border wall.  A new report from Pew Research defines the differences between today’s teens and young adults and Baby Boomers and members of the Silent Generation. 

The negative response to the issue of a border wall among today’s young folks is probably rooted in their view that racial/ethnic diversity is good for society.  According to the Pew Research survey 62% of Gen Z’s and 61% of Millennials believe such diversity is good for society.  That compares of 48% of Baby Boomers and 42% of the Silent Generation.  Member of Generation X are divided on the issue with 52% responding that racial/ethnic diversity is good for society. 

From my perspective there is one difference between the generation gap of the 60’s and our current generational divide.  Emotions ran much higher in the 60’s.  As a result the voice of protest was louder and actually turned violent at times.  Today’s young folks have very strong opinions on issues like racial/ethnic equality and climate change but they are also willing to listen and work with those who do not share their perspectives.  I sense a certain degree of respect and a desire to listen and learn.  It does, however, need to be mutual.

Are You Ready for Recess

Are you ready for Recess?  I am not talking about a break from the routine but rather a new beverage targeted at Millennials.  Seems like Recess has a lot to offer.  For starters, it is a sparkling water infused with CBD (government name: cannabidiol), a nonintoxicating hemp extract that is said to act as a pain reliever, anti-anxiety and anti-inflammatory.  The drink also contains adaptogens  that are supposed to reduce stress and improve memory, focus and immunity.  While the company that produces Recess (owned by a Millennial, of course) is based in New York City, it is bottled in the Hudson Valley using natural spring water.  Those who want to enjoy Recess will have to pay a steep price, $29.99 for a six pack of 12 ounce cans.  If you are interested, you can check out their very entertaining website; https://www.drinkrecess.com/.

Before you jump to conclusions about the sanity of anyone who would pay almost thirty bucks for enhanced sparkling water, let me remind you travelers are willing to pay almost $3 to buy a bottle of water at your local airport.  The only difference between that water and the stuff that comes out of the tap is it is packaged in a plastic bottle with a trendy label.  I’ve always felt guilty drinking bottled water and can only justify it by looking for a recyclable bin when I am finished with it.  If none is available, I will carry it around the empty bottle till I get home.  If you doubt me check out the backseat of my car.  You can usually find several empty plastic bottles just waiting to be recycled.  

I guess I will place Recess beverage on the list of passing fads.  I suspect the owners are laughing their way to the bank.  But, let’s not be so quick to judge.  Somewhere in the back of my sock drawer is a Pet Rock that I paid $4.99 for in 1975.  At least you can drink Recess and probably feel better from it.

Herb Kelleher and Servant Leadership

Dallas icon and retired airline executive Herb Kelleher died last week.  If you do not know his name, you are sure to know the name of the airline in co-founded: Southwest.  It was his vision and spirit that gave way to low-cost air travel.  Herb was not only a creative, hands-on executive, he was a colorful character.  He was a chain smoker whose beverage of choice was Wild Turkey on the rocks.  Under his leadership Southwest grew from a regional carrier connecting three Texas cities to our country’s largest airlines.  Southwest Airlines is also consistently ranked as one of the best places to work.  They also are known for great customer services and having fun along the way.

My first contact with Herb Kelleher was in 1995.  At that time I was on the staff of the Texas District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS).  I was an assistant in the area of education and youth ministries.  I spent a lot of time on the road, most of it in Texas.  I became a Southwest Airlines frequent flyer.  On a particular Friday afternoon I was trying to catch a flight to Houston for a Saturday training event.  Love Field on a Friday is naturally hectic but on this day weather had really backed things up.  I arrived at the gate to find a long line at the gate.  The two customer service agents were doing their best to check people in but travelers were beginning to get frustrated.  Like magic, out of the crowd strolled Herb Kelleher.  He stepped behind the counter, planned a kiss on both female agents and then joined in checking passengers in.  After a few minutes things were under control and Herb turned to leave only to find amazed passengers waiting to shake the hand of the man who saved the day.  “I don’t have time,” Herb announced.  “It’s Friday and we are busy.”   Off he was to solve another problem.  It was the ultimate example of servant leadership.

In my mind that is Herb’s greatest legacy.  While he was a visionary, he was also hands-on executive.  He not only was visible in the terminal pitching in but on the tarmac loading luggage.   Herb retired in 2008 but readily admitted, “I’ve flunked retirement.”  He still maintained an office at the Southwest headquarters. 

That is what I learned from Herb Kelleher.  Be involved, stay active and make sure everyone feels welcome and appreciated. And no leader is too big to be a servant.

Reaching Millennials

The most recent edition of the Reporter, the official newspaper of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod (LCMS), included a front page article on a research project on young-adult retention.  You need look no further than most local Lutheran congregations to see the void when it comes to Millennials (in the article are defined as those ages 22-37).  This is not a problem that is limited to one denomination.  Every mainline Protestant Denomination is experiencing a decline.  The LCMS has probably done a better job of retaining their young adults than most, but there is still a noticeable void when it comes to actively engaged young adults. 

While it might be easy to just write-off Millennials as the lost generation and focus on today’s teens and college students, I am not ready to give up on young adults.  My experience is that many Millennials who have drifted away are now searching for a church once they get married and start families.  Unfortunately they are often affiliating with large non-denominational churches where they can hang out with their peers.  This troubles me.  As I shared in my book Relevant: The Church as it Relates to Millennials, sacramental theology speaks to much of what Millennials are looking for. The problem is creating a welcoming environment.  

The afore mentioned article does reach some conclusions on Millennials.  They are based on both research and focus groups.

1) There is a desire to connect at church with people in their own peer group, but an even higher priority for many Millennials is good theology.  This does create a dilemma for most Lutheran churches.  We have the theology, but lack the young people.

2) They are interested in building relationships, receiving advice from and being mentored by church members who are outside their age group.  In my mind the challenge here is to get older adults engaged in such relationships.

3) They want the church to talk about the difficult issues such as mental health, sexuality and the environment.  This might require us to listen and accept their opinions, even if we do not agree with them.

From my perspective, this presents a challenge within the context of our current faith communities.  I still maintain the church of the future will look vastly different than the church of today.  I see more alternative ministries like coffee houses and internet café’s.  I see churches being in the community through apartment and community ministries.  I think the future lies in connecting with people through their mobile devices, instead of in the pew.  All this requires church members who are open to change, willing to listen and prepared and equipped to be Jesus in a changing world.  

What are You Doing December 26th?

As a child I had a problem with December 26^th.  I was probably typical of many kids.  You anticipate the holiday and there is a natural letdown once the celebration has passed. On two different occasions I distinctly remember being sick on the day after Christmas.  The second time I distinctly remember my mom blaming it on too many sweets the day before.  As I reflect back, I think it was more “post-Christmas syndrome.”  

Our children have taken care of any post-Christmas letdown this year.  Our family celebration is scheduled for December 26^th.    Since all three of our kids are involved in full-time ministry scheduling family events is a bit of challenge.    That will make it a three day celebration.  Christmas Eve Barb and I will be involved in the worship services at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church; she playing keyboard with the orchestra and myself in the bass section of the choir.  Christmas Day we will spend wrapping gifts and in other preparations.  Our youngest Son, Mark, and daughter, Katie and her family will stop by in the evening for some family time.  Then the big day…

For Christians who observe the church calendar, it is not supposed to be this way.  Christmastide is a twelve day celebration.  It begins on Christmas, December 25^th, but extends to Epiphany, January 6.  Orthodox Christians traditionally have celebrated Christ’s birth on January 6^th, the day we celebrate the visit of the Magi. 

I would like to propose the celebration of Christ’s Birth should be observed 365 days a year.  The same should be said for Easter.  If Jesus is the Immanuel, “God with us,” should not he be part of our lives 24/7 every day of the year.  Simeon caught the message.  He was the man who is mentioned in Luke 2, “It had been promised to him that he would not die before he had seen the Christ.” (Luke 2:26).  Simeon proclaims that he could now die in peace because, “my eyes have seen your (Jesus') salvation.”  (Luke 2:29)  It does not end there, however.  Simeon goes on to state, “which has been prepared for all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for the glory of your people Israel.” (Luke 2:30)  Following in Simeon’s legacy we are to be proclaiming that good news through our words and action every day of our lives. 

Pew Research released some disturbing statistic in 2017 regarding the decline in the celebrating of Christmas as a “religious” holiday.  While 90% of those polled reported celebrating Christmas, only 46% viewed it as a “more religious holiday,” down from 51% in 2013.  Perhaps the reason for the decline is rooted in the unfortunate fact we have done a poor job of “proclaiming that message of peace.”   We need to be people of hope in the midst of a world and culture that so desperately needs to hear that message. That message needs to be lived out on December 26th, and through the rest of the year.

Christmas Carols: Give me The Traditional Contemporary

One of joys of the Christmas season is the music that serves as the backdrop for my celebration.  Unlike some, I do try to maintain some parameters.  The first Sunday in Advent, not Thanksgiving, marks the beginning of the season.  And I will continue to enjoy the music of the season right through to Epiphany.  It seems like each of the traditional carols has a memory attached to it.  Years of caroling with church youth groups and singing in a choir on Christmas Eve probable have something to do with that.  I still get moved singing Silent Night by candlelight on Christmas Eve, and Joy to The World is always an  appropriate way to put an exclamation point on that service.   I guess I have taught my children well,  Both carols are on the schedule to be sung at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church this Christmas Eve.  I will be singing bass, while our daughter, Katie, directs the orchestra and choir.  

I have grown to love many of the contemporary Christmas songs as well.  The message of the birth of the Christ Child knows no bounds when it comes to hymns of praise.  Here are five of my favorites.   I hope you will find time to listen to them. 

Emmanuel/Hallowed Manger Ground, by Chris Tomlin and Ed Cash

While Chris Tomlin is known for some of his upbeat songs like Your Grace is Enough, he also has the ability to take the traditional and make it new.  Chris Tomlin also seems to have  with a sense of Church history.  Consider this verse:

“What fear we had in the silent age,

400 hundred years, could he be found.

Then broken by a baby cry,

Rejoice in the hallowed manger ground.

Emmanuel, God incarnate here to dwell”

Breath of Heaven, by Amy Grant and Chris Eaton

Amy Grant’s lyrics give us some insight into Mary’s feelings and thoughts as she carried the infant Jesus in her womb.

“I have traveled many moonless nights

Cold and weary with a babe inside

And I’ve wondered what I’ve done Holy Father,

You have come and chosen me to bear your son….

Breath of Heaven

Welcome to Our World, by Chris Rice

One of my fondest memories is listening to our three children sing this song.

“Wrap our injured flesh around you,

Breath our air and walk our sod.

Rob our sins and make us holy,

Perfect Son of God.

Welcome to our World.”

Manger Throne, by Julie Miller

To my knowledge this gem can only be found on the City of a Hill Christmas Time CD.  On the album it is sung by Mac Powell of Third Day.

“What kind of king would leave his throne,

In heaven to make the earth his home.

While men seek fame and great renowned

In lowliness, Our King comes down.”

All is Well, Words by Wayne Kirkpatrick and Music by Michael W. Smith

One of the anticipated highlights of this Christmas Eve is singing this song with the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church choir and orchestra.

“All is well, all is well.

Let there be peace of earth.

Christ has come, go and tell,

That He is in a manger. 

Sing Alleluia.”

A Blessed Christmastide to you and your family.

Pass the Torch.