Today Cindy and I had the opportunity to worship at Woods Chapel United Methodist Church in Lee's Summit. Woods Chapel was the first church I was aware of to take Radical Hospitality to heart. They developed a hospitality program that has been an inspiration to churches throughout our conference. It was nice to see them in action today.
It is also nice to do a little comparison. We have learned from others and in turn become a motivation for still more churches to practice Radical Hospitality.
This is a first line. A person makes the decision to come to church at Platte Woods. They drive onto the property. (one of these days it will be very inviting rather than feeling like a construction zone!) Parking lot greeters make people feel welcome and comfortable finding the best place to park. A visitor is directed toward the front door where they are greeted and made to feel at home. Once inside people are shown where their children go for Sunday School or other activities. Basic information is provided. People are welcomed to the sanctuary.
This may be done as a program. Then the true radical hospitality begins. This is where the real test for a congregation enters the picture. Everyone becomes part of the Hospitality Team. Everyone is responsible for making guests feel welcome and wanted. People introduce themselves and give an opportunity for guests to share their names. Before the day is over a person has a great church experience and is closer to Jesus than before the came.
It is an exciting time to be the Church.
It's been a great day. I hope you've had a great day too.
steve
Sunday, July 31, 2016
Sunday, July 24, 2016
Reflections From Sunday Evening
Thanks to Jamie Grayson and Keith Cash for sharing their hearts today in worship. We were able to model conversation and communication around the issue of racism. I found it refreshing to have such an encouraging conversation in light of the current realities in our nation. You may access the message through our website - www.plattewoodschurch.org and go to messages.
On another note...
This has been an eventful fall and summer. I had the privilege of representing you at General, Annual and Jurisdictional Conferences. Some good things happen and some things leave us in on-going struggle. But we do know that God will prevail. Consider it a blessing to be able to walk with God through some of the most interesting and challenging times we have known.
I finished teaching a course on theology this week where I worked with 15 local pastors in the Course of Study program at St. Paul School of Theology. As always this was a joy.
On another note...
We pray for one another. Please pray for Rev. Ginger Pudenz as she is scheduled for surgery this Tuesday. We anticipate a great result and Ginger will be back in the middle of things in a few days. Pray.
On another note...
Today begins a few days off for Cindy and me. I do find it hard to slow things down but am looking forward to a couple of weeks at a different pace. In the meantime everything is in good hands.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve
On another note...
This has been an eventful fall and summer. I had the privilege of representing you at General, Annual and Jurisdictional Conferences. Some good things happen and some things leave us in on-going struggle. But we do know that God will prevail. Consider it a blessing to be able to walk with God through some of the most interesting and challenging times we have known.
I finished teaching a course on theology this week where I worked with 15 local pastors in the Course of Study program at St. Paul School of Theology. As always this was a joy.
On another note...
We pray for one another. Please pray for Rev. Ginger Pudenz as she is scheduled for surgery this Tuesday. We anticipate a great result and Ginger will be back in the middle of things in a few days. Pray.
On another note...
Today begins a few days off for Cindy and me. I do find it hard to slow things down but am looking forward to a couple of weeks at a different pace. In the meantime everything is in good hands.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve
Sunday, July 17, 2016
Reflections From Sunday Evening
Back from Jurisdictional Conference where the Rev. Robert (Bob) Farr was elected bishop. Bob is a native of Missouri and has served effectively in our conference for many years. Many of us have watched his development as a disciple of Jesus and leader in the Church. It was a double joy when we learned that Bishop Farr has been assigned to serve the Missouri Conference. This is a bit of an unprecedented move but illustrates how many of us believe God's hand was truly in the process. We welcome Bishop Farr who begins his new chapter of ministry among us September 1.
Jurisdictional Conference is an interesting thing. For nearly two days it seems like we are a divided, stalemated Church. Then things begin to develop and the next thing you know everything is new and onward we go!
I hope to learn a lesson from the Church as I survey the divisions in our nation and even our church. Some people in our various denominations get the idea that things are so divided up that we will not be able to continue in ministry together.
Many in our country look at the divisions of the day and get a feeling that we may not get out of this one.
These are difficult times. But we have been through difficult times before. What could preachers have been preaching, people thinking and Christians doing during the days around the Civil War?
Maybe we could go back deeper in Church History and consider some of the huge differences among Christians that literally took hundreds of years to work through.
We do live in urgent times. We live in a time that calls for faithful action. But we are also a people of history. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit. I would not encourage anyone to postpone action but to also realize that patience is trusting God.
We pray. We participate. We engage. We trust. God is still at work. God will move in history and in our lives.
On another note...
Another shooting today...
God, in your mercy.
Next weekend we will have a conversation about racism and violence. Two members of our congregation, Jamie Grayson and Keith Cash, will share. I will also include insights from law enforcement people in our congregation. I believe this will be a significant conversation and we will be drawn a bit deeper into the Kingdom of God because of it.
It's been a troubling, yet good day.
Steve
Jurisdictional Conference is an interesting thing. For nearly two days it seems like we are a divided, stalemated Church. Then things begin to develop and the next thing you know everything is new and onward we go!
I hope to learn a lesson from the Church as I survey the divisions in our nation and even our church. Some people in our various denominations get the idea that things are so divided up that we will not be able to continue in ministry together.
Many in our country look at the divisions of the day and get a feeling that we may not get out of this one.
These are difficult times. But we have been through difficult times before. What could preachers have been preaching, people thinking and Christians doing during the days around the Civil War?
Maybe we could go back deeper in Church History and consider some of the huge differences among Christians that literally took hundreds of years to work through.
We do live in urgent times. We live in a time that calls for faithful action. But we are also a people of history. Patience is a fruit of the Spirit. I would not encourage anyone to postpone action but to also realize that patience is trusting God.
We pray. We participate. We engage. We trust. God is still at work. God will move in history and in our lives.
On another note...
Another shooting today...
God, in your mercy.
Next weekend we will have a conversation about racism and violence. Two members of our congregation, Jamie Grayson and Keith Cash, will share. I will also include insights from law enforcement people in our congregation. I believe this will be a significant conversation and we will be drawn a bit deeper into the Kingdom of God because of it.
It's been a troubling, yet good day.
Steve
Sunday, July 10, 2016
Reflections From Sunday Evening
It's been a difficult week in America. We have been stunned by the impossible to understand killings in Louisiana, Minnesota and Dallas. I have already written my thoughts on these events so will not pursue that today.
We are also aware that our nation is not the only nation suffering huge division and violence. In Iraq a suicide bomber strikes a busy shopping area and over 200 are killed and injured. We do not even notice the violence taking place in the Old City of Jerusalem. God, in your mercy.
But let me skip past this. Today as we came to prayer in worship I was thinking about these issues and then thought about the unlimited possibilities that will be unleashed in 500 kids this week when we have Vacation Bible School. Maybe my generation has failed but that is no reason to give up. Our church (and churches all over the world) have an opportunity to sow seeds in young lives that may grow to fruition. When we share the story of Jesus with a 5 year old we may be planting a seed in one who will become a leader who changes the world. We may begin to ignite the passion in a fifth grader that will propel them into a difference making life. With people all over the country giving of themselves to build up faith in the next generation we may see this thing turn around.
We have the opportunity to give, serve and love in ways that will be life-changing. God will touch lives and empower new ministries and mission.
Anticipate a great week!
On another note...
This week United Methodists will be gathering in various places to elect bishops and make assignments of bishops for the next four years. I will be with others in our jurisdiction gathering in Wichita where we will elect 3 new bishops and also find out who will be assigned to lead the United Methodist Church in Missouri. Pray for us as we engage in this work.
So I'm doing "political" stuff. Many of you are teaching children. Everyone is going about life and living their faith. It all matters.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve
We are also aware that our nation is not the only nation suffering huge division and violence. In Iraq a suicide bomber strikes a busy shopping area and over 200 are killed and injured. We do not even notice the violence taking place in the Old City of Jerusalem. God, in your mercy.
But let me skip past this. Today as we came to prayer in worship I was thinking about these issues and then thought about the unlimited possibilities that will be unleashed in 500 kids this week when we have Vacation Bible School. Maybe my generation has failed but that is no reason to give up. Our church (and churches all over the world) have an opportunity to sow seeds in young lives that may grow to fruition. When we share the story of Jesus with a 5 year old we may be planting a seed in one who will become a leader who changes the world. We may begin to ignite the passion in a fifth grader that will propel them into a difference making life. With people all over the country giving of themselves to build up faith in the next generation we may see this thing turn around.
We have the opportunity to give, serve and love in ways that will be life-changing. God will touch lives and empower new ministries and mission.
Anticipate a great week!
On another note...
This week United Methodists will be gathering in various places to elect bishops and make assignments of bishops for the next four years. I will be with others in our jurisdiction gathering in Wichita where we will elect 3 new bishops and also find out who will be assigned to lead the United Methodist Church in Missouri. Pray for us as we engage in this work.
So I'm doing "political" stuff. Many of you are teaching children. Everyone is going about life and living their faith. It all matters.
It's been a good day. I hope you've had a good day too.
steve
Friday, July 8, 2016
Too Much Violence
One day a person is shot and killed during an encounter with police. The next day a person is shot and killed during a routine traffic stop. The next day a number of police officers are shot by snipers.
I read these accounts just like you do. I listen to reports just like you do. I try to formulate some cogent thought about what in the world is going on. But I feel stymied. What is there to say?
I read the Psalms this morning and started with Psalm 36:1; "I have a message from God in my heart...." My thought was, "I really wish I did."
My experience with racism and the accompanying evils and challenges leaves me without much to offer the larger context. I mean, when I was little I was taught that if you were in trouble, scared, lost or needed anything...look for a policeman. They will help.
Many of you reading this have a similar experience. That attitude is totally opposite what a black father or mother must tell their little one: If you see a policeman keep your head down, comply, don't resist. They are not your friend.
In this world of opposites what on earth do I have to offer? But there is something to offer.
Our President responds to the challenge to make official statements about these social issues, especially the on-going violence we witness against the black community. There are mayors who make statements; police chiefs make statements; preachers enter the fray with something to say.
We all talk with friends or family and we make our own statements. We have questions. We seek to engage a culture with tremendously different world views.
So it comes to me to confess that I don't have a statement to make. But I do have something to offer. I have decided to be grateful for President Obama when he addresses issues of police shooting black people. I have decided to be grateful and listen to the many voices that enter the dialogue.
My contribute must come from my faith perspective. So much of this violence is based on fear. So the word from the Church could include "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear..." (I John 4:18)
The Church stands up to and speaks against injustice.
The Church mourns with those who mourn.
The Church builds up one another in love.
The Church offers light in darkness.
The Church provides salt to preserve and flavor the culture.
The Church points to another way.
The Church offers hope.
The Church offers Christ to a hurting, confused, distressed, lost world.
The Church offers Christ who loves all with a life-changing, culture transforming, world difference making love.
Perhaps none of us - activists, injustices fighters, racism exposeers, law enforcers, front-line engagers and the Church - people like you and me - have the whole answer. But together we can make a difference. Would you seek to do your part? Who would God call you to offer a word of hope to? How might you provide encouragement and support? Are there police officers in your family, among your friends or your church who desperately need to know that we are praying for them? Are there minorities who are fearful and hurting that desperately need to know your are providing support?
I still question what I have to contribute to the national debate. I still wonder what I have to say that could make a difference. But I dare to believe. I dare to hope. I dare to trust that the Church - what you and I have to offer - may contribute along with the other voices - to something beyond our capacity to create. May God use us - May God use all - to point to healing, hope, change.
Our contribution: "Love one another."
Steve
I read these accounts just like you do. I listen to reports just like you do. I try to formulate some cogent thought about what in the world is going on. But I feel stymied. What is there to say?
I read the Psalms this morning and started with Psalm 36:1; "I have a message from God in my heart...." My thought was, "I really wish I did."
My experience with racism and the accompanying evils and challenges leaves me without much to offer the larger context. I mean, when I was little I was taught that if you were in trouble, scared, lost or needed anything...look for a policeman. They will help.
Many of you reading this have a similar experience. That attitude is totally opposite what a black father or mother must tell their little one: If you see a policeman keep your head down, comply, don't resist. They are not your friend.
In this world of opposites what on earth do I have to offer? But there is something to offer.
Our President responds to the challenge to make official statements about these social issues, especially the on-going violence we witness against the black community. There are mayors who make statements; police chiefs make statements; preachers enter the fray with something to say.
We all talk with friends or family and we make our own statements. We have questions. We seek to engage a culture with tremendously different world views.
So it comes to me to confess that I don't have a statement to make. But I do have something to offer. I have decided to be grateful for President Obama when he addresses issues of police shooting black people. I have decided to be grateful and listen to the many voices that enter the dialogue.
My contribute must come from my faith perspective. So much of this violence is based on fear. So the word from the Church could include "There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear..." (I John 4:18)
The Church stands up to and speaks against injustice.
The Church mourns with those who mourn.
The Church builds up one another in love.
The Church offers light in darkness.
The Church provides salt to preserve and flavor the culture.
The Church points to another way.
The Church offers hope.
The Church offers Christ to a hurting, confused, distressed, lost world.
The Church offers Christ who loves all with a life-changing, culture transforming, world difference making love.
Perhaps none of us - activists, injustices fighters, racism exposeers, law enforcers, front-line engagers and the Church - people like you and me - have the whole answer. But together we can make a difference. Would you seek to do your part? Who would God call you to offer a word of hope to? How might you provide encouragement and support? Are there police officers in your family, among your friends or your church who desperately need to know that we are praying for them? Are there minorities who are fearful and hurting that desperately need to know your are providing support?
I still question what I have to contribute to the national debate. I still wonder what I have to say that could make a difference. But I dare to believe. I dare to hope. I dare to trust that the Church - what you and I have to offer - may contribute along with the other voices - to something beyond our capacity to create. May God use us - May God use all - to point to healing, hope, change.
Our contribution: "Love one another."
Steve
Sunday, July 3, 2016
Reflections From Sunday Evening
Forty years ago today Cindy and I were with a couple from Cassville, Mo. at a retreat in a place called Rabbit Ridge Mississippi. Tommy Woods was a lay witness mission coordinator who hosted the weekend retreat on the 4th of July weekend in 1976. On Saturday night Jimmy Buskirk preached a sermon titled "Where Do You Live?" It was based on Acts 8 where Phillip was among those disciples who were scattered from Jerusalem and he went to Samaria. There he preached the Gospel of Jesus and people believed. Word got back to Jerusalem and they sent Peter and John to see what God was doing. At that point they shared with the Samaritans the Holy Spirit and the new believers were filled with the Spirit. The message ended with an invitation: Could you be in Samaria before Phillip came sharing the Good News? Could you be in Samaria after Phillip but before the Apostles came sharing the Holy Spirit? Or could you have the Spirit but seek a fresh filling? Then he said, "Come put your knees in the sawdust, make your commitment to God and tell someone before you sleep tonight."
That night I said yes to a call I had been sensing for several months. In essence I said yes to God, that I would be a preacher if he wanted me to be one, but God would have to make me one because I certainly could not do it myself.
Forty years...
There were times when I thought I was pretty good, only to be remained of how needy I am.
There were more mistakes than I can count and a few times it worked out that I got it right.
There are been ups and downs. There have been seasons of victory and defeat. There have been opportunities missed and opportunities claimed.
In forty years of ministry I have slipped into trying to make things happen myself and also experienced trust in the Holy Spirit and seen God do some pretty amazing things.
In forty years of ministry I have felt God's grace and seen the hand of God directing our steps.
In forty years of ministry I have been humbled.
In forty years of ministry I have come to trust in the Lord more and more.
It was an amazing weekend forty years ago. It began the greatest journey of faith I could possibly imagine - and then some.
On this 4th of July weekend I have much to be thankful for. There is much to reflect on. In addition to re-reading the Constitution and Declaration of Independence I get to reflect on a life-changing call to ministry that is resulting in God elevating the trajectory of Cindy and my life in wonderful ways.
It's been a great day. I hope you've had a good day to.
steve
That night I said yes to a call I had been sensing for several months. In essence I said yes to God, that I would be a preacher if he wanted me to be one, but God would have to make me one because I certainly could not do it myself.
Forty years...
There were times when I thought I was pretty good, only to be remained of how needy I am.
There were more mistakes than I can count and a few times it worked out that I got it right.
There are been ups and downs. There have been seasons of victory and defeat. There have been opportunities missed and opportunities claimed.
In forty years of ministry I have slipped into trying to make things happen myself and also experienced trust in the Holy Spirit and seen God do some pretty amazing things.
In forty years of ministry I have felt God's grace and seen the hand of God directing our steps.
In forty years of ministry I have been humbled.
In forty years of ministry I have come to trust in the Lord more and more.
It was an amazing weekend forty years ago. It began the greatest journey of faith I could possibly imagine - and then some.
On this 4th of July weekend I have much to be thankful for. There is much to reflect on. In addition to re-reading the Constitution and Declaration of Independence I get to reflect on a life-changing call to ministry that is resulting in God elevating the trajectory of Cindy and my life in wonderful ways.
It's been a great day. I hope you've had a good day to.
steve
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