"All nations shall flow to the mountain of the Lord and they shall beat their swords into plowshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nations shall not lift up swords against another neither shall they learn war anymore."
And, I wondered, "How can I preach this in a believable way? How can I believe it any more?"
The headlines from today's New York Times scream out the choice of violence over peace, greed over compassion, cynical self interest over altruism.
- Nonstop Theft and Bribery Are Staggering Iraq
By DAMIEN CAVE - U.S. Credit Crisis Adds to Gloom in Arctic Norway
By MARK LANDLER - Ending Famine, Simply by Ignoring the Experts
By CELIA W. DUGGER - Iranian Pushes Nuclear Talks Back to Square 1
By ELAINE SCIOLINO - Dark One-Liners Shine a Light on the Mood of Serbs
By DAN BILEFSKY - Film on Mexico’s Disputed ’06 Election Stirs Emotions
By JAMES C. McKINLEY Jr. - Israeli Forces Kill 6 in Gaza
By THE NEW YORK TIMES - Spanish Policeman Is Killed in Attack in France
By VICTORIA BURNETT - Turkey Says It Attacked Kurdish Fighters in Iraq
By SABRINA TAVERNISE and STEPHEN FARRELL
Don't get me wrong. I do not doubt the will, the power or the love of God to accomplish these things. On the other hand the evidence that God will cause human hearts to change and decide to live in peace with one another seems to be weak. And so, it's easy to fall into the funk of the psalmist, "How long will you forget me forever." (Ps. 13)
Now, you may be saying to yourselves that things haven't changed. We could point the headlines in any given year and find that the more things change the more they stay the same. And, you'd be right, of course. Things haven't changed. But, for whatever reason (and I can think of several) I've changed in my own thoughts about the efficacy of the old prophecies, how I consider the possibility of change and transformation.
I tell myself that doubt (or at least taking a look at long held beliefs, traditions and doctrines) is healthy.
I continue to hold fast to the conviction that hope is a necessity of life. Therefore, I command myself to remember that all things are possible: that the situation can change; that my life can improve; that nations can learn the truth that their self interest is best served when the interest of other nations is satisfied.
I strengthen myself with the words of scripture that "since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of god...and hope does not disappoint us, because God's love has been poured intou our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us." (Romans 5:1-2, 5)
And, if I open my eyes I then can see that there are evidences of hope all around. In today's New York Times, columnist Thomas J. Friedman wrote about global warming in his Op-Ed piece.
Then I got together with three engineering undergrads who helped launch the
Vehicle Design Summit — a global, open-source, collaborative effort, managed by
M.I.T. students, that has 25 college teams around the world, including in India
and China, working together to build a plug-in electric hybrid within three
years.They’re not waiting for G.M. Their goal, they explain on their Web site — vds.mit.edu — is “to identify the key
characteristics of events like the race to the moon and then transpose this
energy, passion, focus and urgency” on catalyzing a global team to build a clean
car. I just love their tag line. It’s what gives me hope:“We are the people we have been waiting for.”
Indeed, there are signs of hope abounding. But, I thought, what if we "got" this insight, this particular bit of wisdom and belief in our churches. We are the people we've been waiting for! In so many of our churches I hear folks wishing for that leader that would come and revitalize their youth program. If only they had those young families to populate their church school. And, what if they had that new preacher that would bring in those young families, that would put more folks in the pews and more money in the offering plates. But, what if we are the people we've been waiting for?
During Advent we prepare for the coming of Christ at Christmastime. In doctrinal terms in this season of the Church year we are consider through our prayers, meditations, bible studies, liturgies and preaching the great mystery of the Incarnation: that God became human for and with us in the person of Jesus of Nazareth.
Indeed, this is a great mystery. An even greater mystery is that by grace through faith God has also given us the Holy Spirit so that we may embody the same love of God that Jesus proclaimed. We are the people we've been waiting for. Incredible, but true!
We become the ones not only for whom we are waiting, but more importantly for whom God is waiting, by actually making the peace that God promises. John Thomas, UCC General Minister and President, has been inviting members of the United Church of Christ to write prayers for our soldiers in Iraq and to send donations to support Iraqi refugees. Here is the link: http://www.ucc.org/100kforpeace/
So, you see, I've written myself out of my funk. I feel better already. I hope you're well.
Blessings,
Rick Cowles
11 comments:
Well Rick you are sounding like a charismatic church leader. We are the people. AMEN! Thanks for your boldness. We are each called to the same boldness! Thanks for leading.
Mike
I preached on this text despite the same reservations you express. In hope there is always the shadow in the corner that says it won't come true. Hope, I believe, is a matter of acknowledging the shadow while looking towards the light.
The cynical world, with a business-as-usual perspective, will plug along each day, burning another village or starving another child in order to extract the resources they need to maintain their lifestyle. But the church doesn't have to give in to that perspective.
War is the most destructive force we unleash against each other. Learning how to not engage in war is possible. I wonder what it would take for the world to come against a common enemy--would it be the threat of the destruction of the earth through global warming, or an alien enemy, or an asteroid? I don't know.
I believe it is not only possible but necessary for the church to model how to beat tools of destruction into tools of nurture.
Fantastic site, I had not come across uccnyupstatenews.blogspot.com earlier in my searches!
Continue the great work!
Hi,
This is a inquiry for the webmaster/admin here at www.blogger.com.
Can I use some of the information from your blog post above if I give a backlink back to this website?
Thanks,
Harry
[b][url=http://www.uggsoutletshopus.com/]ugg boots outlet[/url][/b] The full thought of On-page Search engine optimization relies on key phrases and keyphrases. may be the name generally granted towards the words or phrases that very best illustrate your website page content/purpose and best match the text men and women use when hunting for your information. Keeping this idea in your mind, whatever you really need to do to obtain your web site optimized for lookup engines would be to pick one on the most searched terms or phrases which very best match the material of the page..
[b][url=http://www.outletonlinestore.co.uk/]louis vuitton outlet[/url][/b] a swimsuit. Inside the 1950s, curves were being in; in the latest period, curves may perhaps be building a reentry in to the vogue of swimsuit trend. To intensify and flatter curves within a as well as measurement entire body, consider pairing a gentle colored, waist-defining tankini leading with a lot more subdued bikini bottoms.
[b][url=http://www.uggsoutletshopus.com/]www.uggsoutletshopus.com[/url][/b] Vuitton is definitely the perfect determined handbag model of our time, and one of many most recognizable brands inside of the world. No matter whether you transpire to be considering a standard Monogram carrier in brownish and beige, a rainbow of stunning hues possessing a white Murakami, or possibly a timeless, straightforward and strong Suhali leather-based bag, LV will be the manufacturer with every and every tote imaginable. It is actually with outstanding joy that we inventory every one of the highlights using the Louis vuitton collection, with our variety of high-quality, duplicate handbags..
Happily you row the boat to your other shore. There, you discover a desert, which you might want to cross, so as to reach your desired destination. You put the boat on the shoulders and start crossing the desert. If you need to operate out your lessen physique, action to the middle from the resistance band with both equally your ft. Your ft should really be shoulder-width aside. Maintain yet another conclude from the band with equally the hands, holding the hands at shoulder-width.
[b][url=http://www.uggsclearanceonline.co.uk/]www.uggsclearanceonline.co.uk[/url][/b] Additionally, you will truly feel far more optimistic and broad minded. This may cause you to strategy for your personal potential and anything you have to do to gain good results. This could simply be to pursue academic tests to build an improved and much better vocation. Irrespective of when your exclusive fashion is really countryside and area, or maybe rough and also mild steel, you're sure to search for your bag in a single together with the five makers that can satisfies. When you enjoy to match up your circumstance for a attire or perhaps sneakers (as i do), then your imitation purses through Erectile dysfunction Healthful go with a variety of outfits, by using shopping center excellent deals as a way to head-to-toe tailor made built. Should you have any considerations regarding your individual overall health or maybe the wellbeing of the kid, you must normally talk to having a physician or any other health care qualified.
[b][url=http://www.cheapuggsonlinesale.co.uk/]www.cheapuggsonlinesale.co.uk[/url][/b] In . From usefulness to make certain that you simply shop also to from capital to slumber and in many cases breakfast, resorts for the duration of Venice include jointly prevalent enterprise house moreover specific hotelsYou are unable to desire to offer louis vuitton outlet on the web shop your credit score Police drive Sunglasses. This educational post hopes to provide you with louis vuitton purses and handbags having an knowing regarding the result in louis vuitton preserve why Oakley sunglasses stands over the remainder in relation to similarly fashionable and very simple sunshine shades.
Open at the Worcester Country Club in 1925 Always what is stitching and the level of the each side handmade suitcases However[url=http://www.raylewisjersey.net]Ray Lewis Pink Jersey[/url]
make sure you have a minimum of some two additional paddles with you if the paddles cease working We are committed to internet marketing businesses
ASLA professional awards honor the most effective landscape architecture design from all more than the globe Taking part in guitar is like artwork[url=http://www.robertgriffiniiiJersey.net]Robert Griffin III Women's Jersey[/url]
you need to practice and ideal your craft Louis for a total of eight NFL seasons in which he threw 22[url=http://www.authenticnikeColtsshop.com]Andrew Luck Jersey[/url]
814 yards with 122 touchdowns as well as 93 interceptions The NFL Jerseys exhibit a sense of unique fashion with their original designs and creative looks
[b][url=http://www.uggsoutletsite.co.uk/]ugg boots outlet[/url][/b] Other than the amperage, you can find other factors that impact battery ability. The most significant factor is battery existence. Each time a battery is recharged just after it reaches 100% DOD, battery capability and battery lifespan decreases. She did a twist to it, offering it from the kilo. From then on, Filipinos does not have to wait for fiestas and various affairs to get lechon on their tables. They might have it any day they want it.
[b][url=http://www.uggsunitedkingdom.co.uk/]ugg uk[/url][/b] Louis Vuitton is considered the most wanted then best-selling back again pack developers. This sort of purses are notable for our prime criteria linked with high-quality furthermore state-of-the-art design given to every particular person style and layout. Beautiful, while unbelievably spectacular, Louis Vuitton warranties effectivity within just the big amount of first-class goods and methods.
[b][url=http://www.seekingbestbags.co.uk/]louis vuitton purses[/url][/b] Taking on spots just past the 610 hook in Texas Uptown Centre, the shopping mall also eluxury louis vuitton has two unique louis vuitton monogram canvas Westin lodges. On the flip side, simply many people working with expectant revenue are generally in a unique place to find the authentic varieties. The quite last two numbers mustn't be previously mentioned 31.
[b][url=http://www.louisvuittonwalletsmarket.com/]louis vuitton wallets[/url][/b] Preserve in mind the necessity to become equipped to move your ramp from location to place. If you are planning to wish a ramp that may be completely moveable, you may often find ramps that come aside and reassemble pretty conveniently. The sections commonly consist of the actual ramp in addition to a deck, which can be the flat, straight section..
[b][url=http://www.louisvuittonwalletsmarket.com/]www.louisvuittonwalletsmarket.com[/url][/b] The very first and foremost tip for women who want a healthier dating everyday living is usually to search your best! Require some time to groom oneself. Have got a extensive soothing shower, plan your hair, nails, make up and footwear very well beforehand. By no means disregard footwear, as it types an important component of a man's judgment of you.
[url=http://orderamoxicillin.webs.com/]amoxicillin 250 mg overdose
[/url] amoxicillin 500mg expiration date
amoxicillin 500 mg while breastfeeding
buy amoxicillin online uk
When you've got components [url=http://www.germanylovelv.com/]louis vuitton knolckoffs[/url]
be printeF you are Frequently conFronteF along with the preFicament oF choosing the right Firm [url=http://www.germanylovelv.com/]louis vuitton knolckoffs[/url]
Fo it For you personally. In the event you were [url=http://www.germanylovelv.com/]louis vuitton knolckoffs[/url]
use a printing business that proviFes inFerior top quality than anything you are in search oF, you'll enF up with merchanFise that aren't saleable. Likewise, you coulF obtain a printing corporation that cannot entire your print task insiFe the FemanFeF time which in turn woulF leaF to you signiFicant stres[url=http://www.germanylovelv.com/]Louis Vuitton Outlet[/url]
|
|
[url=http://longchampsacsa.blog.galeon.com/]sac longchamps[/url] A great way of "rehearsing" the possible attack of someone with a knife or club is to purchase, in advance, self defense weapons. These can help any martial arts student simulate an armed attack and give the student the self-confidence Best Mulberry Hand Clipper Bag Light Coffee for Men,Hot Selling In Our Mulberry Handbags Online Shop. to protect themselves if such a danger were to come about. A rubberized knife or a softened pair of nunchaku can recreate the situation of an attack without creating the same level of danger to the training student..
[url=http://space.canoe.ca/longchampbagsd/blog/]longchamp soldes[/url] At one point, I realized that it made no sense to ruminate about "what if's" because there was no action I could take yet. I started listening to Stuart MacLean's Vinyl Café. After laughing through a story or two, the adrenaline eased off. Wines are notorious for absorbing other smells. Various food kept in your fridge might affect the taste and smell of the wine. If you happen Choose one of the designer, Highly Appreciated Mulberry Women's Bayswater Leather Satchel Light Coffee Bag, according to your personality, style and elegance. Our designer wallets and purses are made just for you. to buy your wine days before the party, store it instead in a cool, dark place wrapped in a towel.
[url=http://longchampmoinse.blogs.fr/]sac longchamp moins cher[/url] Similar with other luxurious products, like Gucci and Prada handbags and Rolex watches, a big illegal market filled with counterfeit and shoddy products also occurs to Air Jordan shoes, therefore, you need be extremely careful Covetable Mulberry Outlet Medium Alexa Leather Satchel Light Coffee Bag supply cheap and is save up to 80% off to guarantee that you are making business with a legal and standard company. To start this work, it is easy. You can just type some words like "wholesale tennis shoes", if for the above case, "wholesale Nike Air Jordan tennis shoes", this is enough.. Sling bags have the advantage of a wide, easy open and close top. They also fit snugly at the elbow or in the hand. Clutches make a fashion statement on short trips when baby may not need so many supplies. Craft store gift card. Nothing better than having some moohlah to spend on creative fun! Look for a nearby Michaels, Hobby Lobby, Joann's, or any type of crafty establishment and purchase a gift card to give. Fat Quarters.
Your phrase is matchless... :)
Understand me?
Just that is necessary.
In my opinion you are not right. Write to me in PM, we will communicate.
I am sorry, that has interfered... I understand this question. Let's discuss.
[url=http://shenenmaoyik.futblog.com.br/][b]michael kors outlet online[/b][/url]
[url=http://shenenmaoyipp.fashionblog.com.br/][b]michael kors outlet online[/b][/url]
[url=http://www.cheapbags8.350.com/][b]michael kors outlet online[/b][/url]
[url=http://shenenmaoyipo.tripod.com/][b]michael kors outlet online[/b][/url]
[url=http://michaelkorsoutlet0.manifo.com/][b]michael kors outlet online[/b][/url]
Post a Comment