Person of the Year: Ira Hays

2005 Person of the Year

Every December Time magazine reveals their selection for Person of the Year. Time's criteria for its selection is as follows, " TIME's Person of the Year is the person or persons who most affected the news and our lives, for good or for ill, and embodied what was important about the year..." It seems a little egotistical for one magazine to pick one person out of six billion. Some years Time has gotten it right, but for the majority Time gets it wrong. This year is no different. Below is a list of names that are on Time's radar for 2005 Person of the Year:

Steve Jobs, Pope Benedict XVI, Bill and Melinda Gates, The Google Guys, J.K. Rowling, Rick Warren, Condoleezza Rice, Valerie Plame, Bono, Mother Nature,George W. Bush, Lance Armstrong (http://www.time.com/time/personoftheyear/2005/walkup/)


No matter what their decision, I believe Time will once again get it wrong. This morning I would like to make my own nomination for 2005 Person of the Year. Upon some deliberation I would like to nominate Ira Hays for Person of the Year. Who is Ira Hays? I regret to say that in the midst of my other ramblings this is first time I have mentioned Ira on this blog. Ira's remarkable story began a year ago this past Friday and for not mentioning him sooner I apologize. So what makes Ira so special as to be Person of the Year? Great question.

I've actually never met Ira, but I hope to shake his hand one day. During my year in NYC I had the pleasure to know Ira's parents, Joe and Laura Hays. They were extremely gracious towards me even when I didn't want to dogsit for them because I felt picking up dog poop was beneath me. They tolerated me still even after my ridiculous rants such as trying to argue for the special bond between father and son playing catch. Today I realize I probably deserved a quick jab to the stomach from them for the sake of their daughter Sophia, but like I said before Joe and Laura are two of the most gracious people I've ever met.

I left NYC in September 2004. In December, Joe and Laura went to have their first sonogram for their 2nd pregnancy. Joe describes their visit, "...We just returned home from our mid-wife appointment and our first sonogram. The mid-wife appointment went good. Things looked good and sounded good. We went down the hall to a separate office for the sono. After waiting for some time, we were finally called in. The sonographer did all the usual measurements and then said, "I'm going to go call a doctor." The doctor came in and did some checking around. He finally told us what he was seeing: our baby's stomach is not where it should be. It's up in the chest cavity where the left lung should be developing. "Left" is important because it is not as severe as if this were occurring on the right side. The problem is called Congential Diaphragmatic Hernia.

This is not good news. At best the baby will only need surgery after the baby is born. The long-term effects are all across the board. At worst, there is more associated with this Hernia such as Downs or other kind of retardation that could mean immediate loss of life upon birth..."

- from Joe's blog at http://www.brooklynchurchplant.blogspot.com)


Well Ira did survive after numerous evasive surgeries and being put on numerous medications. He spent a total of 6 months in the NICU to regain his strength. Ira is now at home, but his struggle continues. Many factors went into Ira's survival ranging from his amazing doctors, incredible parents and a gracious God.

But the factor I keep coming back to is Ira's will to live. A grown man or woman might have surrendered under such pain and distress. Personally, I can see myself saying thanks, but no thanks in the face of such painful obstacles. Ira, however, has decided to meet these challenges head on. Even when others wanted to give up, Ira kept fighting for his life. Despite the hurdles, Ira's will cannot be denied. Many might wonder what is the source of Ira's will to preserver, but after knowing Joe and Laura it seems to be genetic.

I keep asking myself, why does Ira continue to fight and not give up? Does he not know how broken this world is? Why does he want to live in a world already filled with sorrow and suffering? I've come to believe that Ira sees something in this world that my adult eyes can't see. Though only an infant, I believe Ira has faith in the future. I think Ira fights to live because he believes someday he can help change the world for the better. Why else would he endure the pains and struggles if not for a belief of something better on the horizon? If Ira hasn't given up on the world, how can I? It's Ira's will and faith that inspires me to stay the course in my work with Shiloh. It's Ira's will and faith that can mend the broken. It's Ira's will and faith that can transform the world into something better than we were before. It's because of his will and faith that I nominate Ira Hays for 2005 Person of Year.


All else in favor of Ira for Person of the Year, say I !



CJE


Coming Next Week: The History of Christ

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One Down, Three To Go

One semester down

Well I am finally back in Cincinnati, KY for the Christmas break. The first semester is officially in the books. The semester was long and alot of hard work. The experience of being completely by myself was also hard and by the end of the semester almost unbearable. But in all it was a good semester. I found a great job at a hotel 3 blocks from my dorm. I found a amazing church that felt like home from the first time I went. I found myself becoming a much better writer than before. I have sent some a copy of my 27 pg research paper on a Quaker relief organization that provided aid during WWI, WWII, and Vietnam. For those who haven't received a copy and would like one just let me know in the comments or by email. It's probably the best paper I have written so far. What was most interesting about the Quaker paper was that it gave me the opportunity to inject the teachings of Christ to an audience at UAB who don't feel the need to apply their religion to their everyday life. This was not your typical Lipscomb audience who already have a vast knowledge of the gospel, but an audience who hold Jesus no higher than you or me. My experience this semester with the Birmingham homeless has also helped me grow as a disciple trying to remain faithful. For now I am home for a month of relaxation and fellowship. For now it's time to recharge for the next semester. For now it's one down, three to go.


CJE


Coming Next Week: Person of the Year

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November 28, 1980

My greatest accomplishment

Twenty five years ago to the day my mom went had her first contractions in the canned food aisle in the supermarket. Shortly after arriving at the hospital I came into the world. Twenty fives years. Wow, when you say it out loud it's kind of hard to believe. This feels bigger than 18 or 21 for some reason. I feel the need to take an inventory of the past twenty five years. I know it's not as much as those born before color TV. This past weekend I kept asking myself, what have I accomplished in 25 years? Have I made any difference in 25 years?

I realized that I've done and seen many things in just 25 years. I saw the Bengals lose a heartbreaking Super Bowl to the 49ers. I watched Peter Jennings narrate the coming down of the Berlin Wall. I've been to the White House and to a session of the Senate. I watched in awe as the Reds swept the A's to win the 1990 World Series. I've been to Disney World. I traveled the West. From the Grand Canyon to the hills of Yellowstone down to the falls of Yosemite. I traveled to Europe. I've walked the streets of Madrid and ascended to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Finally, I watched the end of the world trade center in September 2001.

What is my greatest accomplishment in 25 years? That's an easy one. My greatest accomplish by far are the six consecutive summers I spent in service to Shiloh. Above are two pictures that represent my accomplishment. The first was taken during my first summer at Shiloh in June 2000. The second was taken five years later in the summer of 2004. One is immediately struck by how much this camper had grown in just five years. The first time I met her I had to bend down to talk to her and five years later she was almost as tall as me. I keep these two pictures in a frame and two words come to mind every time I look at it. UNCONDITIONAL LOVE. My love for this camper exists not because she is perfect or always makes the right decisions. My love for this camper exists not because she is incredibly wealthy or famous. In the same way her kindness towards me is not out of a sense of obligation. Her love for me is not because I am wealthy or well known. Her love for me is not because I have all the answers. Her love for me is most certainly not because of my perfect smile. These two pictures represent unconditional love in its most simple form. It is an unconditional love formed out of promises made and promises kept.

But what of the next 25 years? What do I expect to see when I am 50? Very soon I hope to be working year around with Shiloh in the South Bronx. When I am 50, I believe the South Bronx will be completely transformed. One will not recognize the South Bronx in 25 years. It will be the envy of all of New York City. At 50, I and others working with Shiloh will witness every child of the South Bronx graduate high school. Impossible? Then you will be even more shocked in 25 years when you see every child of the South Bronx graduate college. A fool's hope? Of anything these past 25 years have taught me, then it is that nothing is impossible. It is not silly to believe a child can transcend their surroundings to achieve greater goals because through Shiloh I have seen it. It is not ridiculous to think a child can overcome their emotional suffering to attain a brighter future because through Shiloh I have held it. Anything is possible. I consider myself not an idealistic dreamer, but a realistic believer. A realistic believer who is confident in the future. A future that will see me, former campers, and others working with children of Shiloh yet to be born. The road ahead is long. This is the journey I am on, a journey that began on November 28, 1980.


CJE




Coming Next Monday: One Down, Three To Go

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Book Review

1. Ordinary Resurrections: By Jonathan Kozol

This book has a special importance because of my work of Shiloh. As with his other book Amazing Grace, this book is an examination of the South Bronx in New York City. This book is much brighter and hopeful than Amazing Grace. While Amazing Grace introduces to the harsh realities and vicious cycles of the South Bronx, Ordinary Resurrections reminds us that cycles can be broken and that it is not foolishness to believe the children of the South Bronx can transform themselves and their neighborhood. A must read for anyone discouraged by current events.

2. Plan of Attack: By Bob Woodward

Find yourself pretty clueless about the Iraq war and the motivations behind it, then I suggest Woodward's Plan of Attack. It is a well-written account of the events leading up to the Iraq war. He gives great insight and asks tough questions. There are hints of bias, but nothing close to bias contained in a Michael Moore book. It is also well researched since Woodward is getting first-person interviews with everybody from Powell to Bush himself. But if you could care less about Iraq and its implications for the future, then might want to just stick with Harry Potter.

3. Mere Discipleship: By Lee Camp

I had the privilege of having Camp for two bible classes while at Lipscomb and would consider him a personal friend. Unlike most Christian writers, Camp isn't afraid to speak his mind even if it offends you. He's not writing to please anyone, but to make people aware of the Lordship of Christ and the commitment to which he calls everyone. Again if you don't like to think, if you don't like to learn something new, then maybe this book isn't for you.

4. World on Fire: By Amy Chua

A fascinating book about the dangers of economic globalism and its ability to breed ethnic hatred. For those who think Capitalism is the best thing since sliced bread, this book will make you reconsider. In World on Fire we come to realize free markets can do more harm than good. Globalism will not only take our wallets, but in many countries it can take our lives. Eye opening and thought provoking, a must read.


Coming Monday: November 28th, 1980.

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Music Review

Well since final papers are coming due I decided to spend the next couple weeks offering reviews of the media I have on my sidebar. It's quick and simple which all i can really afford to do until the semester is over in early December. So this week I offer a review of current music I can't stop listening to.

1. Hootie & the Blowfish: Looking For Lucky

Go ahead and laugh, it wouldn't be the first time someone has laughed at my support for Hootie. I've been a fan since day one. They've got two less-than stellar cds, but the majority has been solid gold. Looking For Lucky is no exception and probably their best yet. I can't tell you how refreshing it is to hear original music in a time of pre-packaged pop. Every track is gold. If you have I-Tunes capabilities, then I suggest starter tracks like: "Another Year's Gone By" or "State Your Peace" or "Hey Sister Pretty". The song "Another Year's Gone By" is probably my favorite and is really uplifting in these troubled times.

2. Van Morrison: Magic Time

I first came to Van Morrison on the featured tracks on the airplane radio. At first I thought Van Morrison was some old grandpa from my parents era. Well I found out he was old because he is the same Van Morrison of "Brown Eyed Girl". Starting sometime in the 90s he delved into his own form of R&B. Magic Time, released in May 2005, is an amazing cd that transports one back to simpler times. The title track "Magic Time" is my favorite and one I often daydream to. This can also be found on I-Tunes.

3. John Legend: Get Lifted

I found John Legend by accident, but I have not been disappointed. The track "It Don't Have To Change" is probably the best song I've heard in the past five years. It's another song that transports and inspires. I get the feeling John Legend's contribution to music is going to be as important as Marvin Gaye. If your music collection has grown bland, then I encourge you to infuse it with some soul from Legend.

4. Coldplay: A Rush of Blood to the Head

I tried to resist Coldplay because I felt they were copying U2 and thought they were better than them. But with the new cd and listening to A Rush of Blood to the Head, I've stopped resisting and seen the talent of the band. Though I'm a novice fan of Coldplay, I think A Rush of Blood to the Head is their best cd. It's hard to beat "Clocks", "Amsterdam", "The Scientist" and "A Rush of Blood to the Head". It's a cd that helps one to calm down and reflect on life. Though still U2's apprentice, Coldplay does have a voice worth your attention.



Coming Next Week: Book Review

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Losing The Love of Your Life

What do I do now?

I presently work three days a week at a Courtyard Marriott Hotel across the street from UAB Hospital. Over half our daily guests are patients of the hospital or have family members in ICU. Some days you hear great news of family members recovering who get to go home, but then are days when you see family members broken and hear that their family member didn't make it out of ICU. By far the worst experience for me to witness occurred about three weeks ago, but I remember like it was yesterday.

It was another typical morning for me at the front desk. People made their usual trip past my desk to check out or to head over to the hospital. Around 9am one gentleman in his mid-60s came up to me and said, "It is possible for me to extend my room for another night? You see, my wife is over in the ICU and depending how she does will depend on whether I will need the room or not." I went ahead to extend his stay and just told him to keep us informed when he could about his situation. The gentleman left for the ICU and my day continued as usual. It was now 2pm and I was preparing my paperwork for the day's transactions when the gentleman returned from the hospital. He walked slowly and quietly to the front desk. As he came closer I noticed his face was flushed and his eyes seemed to be glazed over with recent tears. In a low voice all he said to me was, "I'm not going to need the room tonight". He proceeded up to his room to collect his things and then left the hotel with a look of confusion because he did not seem sure of what to do next.

You see his wife wasn't able to make it out of ICU and died sometime that afternoon. He didn't tell me this outright, but with the look and tone of his short phrase "I will not need the room". What else can one say after losing the love of their life? What does one do after losing a love that has lasted 40yrs? This man had few words and few answers. I'm not married and even I can't imagine going to sleep with my wife next to me every night for 40yrs and then the next night going to bed alone. Do young married couples ever think about it? Or do they think that such an event is a long way off? Spouses, old or young, please listen to me. If your spouse makes through the day without hearing "I love you", then shame on you. Whether you're on a business trip or taking the kids to soccer practice, PICK UP THE PHONE AND TELL THEM "I love you". With each passing moment is another passing chance to you let your spouse know how you feel.

So this week I encourage all spouses to realize the fragility of life. Old or young, death makes no exceptions. Also spouses, be thinking about of you will handle losing the other. I'm not saying there is a correct way, but you must find a way for the sake of family and friends who love you. Because whether or not you believe it, there is coming a day when you go to bed together, but wake up alone. There is coming a day when you go to the hospital together, but leave alone. Maybe by thinking about it we will not end up like the gentleman at the hospital who was lost with no idea of what to do next. Then again, it maybe the gentleman is teaching us the reality of losing the love of your life.


CJE



Coming Next Week: Music Review

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Can You Spare Some Grace?

A child of God

For the past two years now I have lived or worked in the city. From the fall of 2003 til the summer of 2004 I lived and worked in New York City. From the fall of 2004 til the summer of 2005 I worked in downtown Cincinnati. Now in the fall of 2005 I work and live in downtown Birmingham. There is a common thread with each of these cities where I have spent consider time living and working. What links each of these urban cities is the huge number of homeless people that dwell on the streets and sidewalks. So today's post is an education for those who live and work in the suburbs that have no idea what I am talking about. The only times residents of the wealthy subdivision see homeless people are in the movies, but to those who live downtown the interaction with the homeless is a daily experience. Sadly, the most callous treatment of the homeless comes from surbanite Christians who think the homeless are just faking it or just lazy addicts. Again, today's post is an education.

I currently live on the campus of UAB located in the Five Points South area of downtown Birmingham. I encounter the homeless every time I venture to Starbucks for a cup of coffee or to Jim-N-Nick's for the best grilled catfish. It has been growing experience for me. At first I had to fight the urge taught to me by society of just ignoring their pleas for change, but after giving change the first couple times it felt good to give these people whatever I had on me. Most times it's a dollar or two, but sometimes I have a $5. It's tempting to break the $5 up at the restaurant and then give him or her the dollar, but I now hand over the $5 without much thought. I even had the bizarre opportunity to pay for a homeless man's Subway footlong. Though he ordered the sub before he asked me to pay, but whatever.

Why do we as Christians hesitate to give change to the homeless who ask us? Am I the only one to have struggled with this feeling? First, the individual must stop looking at the big picture of homelessness. It may seem like my giving of change are futile efforts that do nothing to solve the problems that cause homelessness. True, but as an individual I am not responsible for coming up with grand solutions to end homelessness. It is the responsibility of the Church as a unified whole to develop productive programs that help bring an end to homelessness. The homeless themselves are not looking for well constructed programs to help them out of poverty. The homeless are just trying to make it to the next day. So if my little amount of change can get them a small bite or drink that helps them make it to next day, then I feel my futile efforts have purpose.

Second, we must deny the temptation to wonder what they might do with our change. Most people deny the homeless their change because they fear it might be used to buy drugs or alcohol. The idea that the change would go to drugs it pretty silly because most hard drugs are pretty expensive and not within the homeless man's budget. The worry it might go to alcohol is more reasonable. Right or wrong, my brother had an interesting observation to my change possibly going to alcohol, "when you have to sleep on the cold concrete, it's nice have a drink to keep you warm." Regardless of my worries it's really none of my business what the homeless do with the money. Once the hotel gives me my paycheck it's no longer their money and it is none of their business how I spend my paycheck. The same is true with the money I give to the homeless. Once the money leaves my hand it becomes their money and none of my business. I hope they choose a Jr. Bacon Cheeseburger over a bottle of Jack Daniels, but I can't make the choices for them. I can only try to help them get to the next day.

Third, we worry too much that we might get taken advantage of. What if they are faking it? What if they are lying to me? What if they are trying to trick me? All I have to say to such questions is, So What? If a homeless person lies or takes advantage of you, then so what? Let me ask you a question now. Either regrettably or shamefully, how many times have you taken advantage of the grace of Christ? How many times have you given into your selfish desires thinking you could use the grace of Christ clean up any mess left behind? How many times a day do you abuse the grace of Christ for the sake of your pride or lust? If Christ were merely human, then he would cut off the supply to grace a long time ago. But thankfully he is also divine and embodies the divine unconditional love of God. Thankfully we are made in the image of God and also posses the ability to express the divine unconditional love we do not deserve.

So this coming week I encourage those who live in the city to change their ideas about the giving of change to the homeless. Think of it not as giving change, but as giving grace. If God grants us more grace than we deserve, then how can we deny the homeless who are the most void of grace. For those living in the suburbs I encourage to visit the downtown and have your stereotypes completely blown away. Some might label downtown as nothing more than a wretched jungle, but the homeless call it home. Some might think of the homeless as lazy animals, but I tend to think of the homeless as children of God. As children of God I find both of us asking Christ, can you spare some grace?


CJE


Coming Next Week: Losing The Love Of Your Life

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The Hypocrisy of War Crimes

The only war criminal?

Well Saddam is finally having his day in court...almost. In watching Saddam now stand trail for his crimes against humanity I begin to see how war crimes are very subjective. Who determines what a war crime is? Who prosecutes war criminals? It is always the victor who determines the definition of a war crime. The victor always prosecutes the war criminal. Never is the victor accused of war crimes. It's true that Saddam is a war criminal, but is he the only guilty one? Is America capable of committing war crimes? Has America already committed war crimes? Or because we are always the victors does the idea of American war crimes seem impossible?

From the genocide of the Indians to Abu Grab prison, there are plenty of American war crimes to choose from. For the sake of time I have chosen to mention just one. Those who lived and fought in WW II have become known as "the greatest generation". The liberation of Europe and the Jews are noble accomplishments, but it is the end of the war in Japan that taints the greatest generation. Some of the greatest generation helped to produce the greatest war crime in the dropping of two atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

My intention is not to be offensive, but in regards to Hiroshima and Nagasaki it is time to call a spade a spade. First, the whole idea that the atomic bomb spared 1 million U.S. troops from dying in an invasion of Japan is pure fiction. As a history major I've come to learn about the fire bombing campaign that preceded Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The fire bombing of Tokyo killed over 100,000 people in one night. Japan was not a supreme force in August of 1945, but a nation engulfed in flames. Japan's back was already broken before Hiroshima and Nagasaki were subjected to the intense nuclear heat of the atomic bomb.

Second, what was the purpose of the atomic bomb? It was used to bring about the unconditional surrender of Japan. Few realize that not even this goal was accomplished. Yes, Japan did surrender to the U.S. shortly after the bombs were dropped, but only on the condition that they could keep their emperor in power. The U.S. agreed thus negating the whole concept of unconditional surrender. If the bombs didn't achieve unconditional surrender, then why use them in the first place?

Third, where were the bombs dropped? Yes, Hiroshima and Nagasaki did have military installations, but the majority of the cities were made up of civilians. The bombs were not dropped on some airport runway, but right in the heart of the metropolitan area. Imagine mothers taking their kids to and from school. Fathers going to and from work. Children outside playing. Then in an instant whole families are not only killed, but vaporized. Does the cost of civilian life in Hiroshima and Nagasaki really seem worth the price of using the atomic bomb?

Fourth, what does an atomic bomb do? For those who are interested I suggest taking a refresher course in physics. The atomic bomb is able to split atoms that result in a release of extreme heat. It is basically releasing the surface of the sun on its intended target. People aren't just killed by an atomic bomb, they are vaporized. I am still haunted by seeing pictures of a person's silhouette being burned into the concrete. The atomic bomb also releases intense radiation which can lead to all kinds of cancer. This is not a weapon of war, but a weapon the worst kind of evil.

Fifth, if one atomic bomb does horrific damage, then why use two? Did one bomb not cause enough damage? The worst part of the end of WWII is that we dropped two atomic bombs on a nation already on fire. Was the second bomb just for good measure? A just-in- case bomb? Even if you believe that one atomic bomb isn't a war crime, then the U.S. is convicted on the account of the second bomb. If the defeat of Hitler is our greatest moment, the second atomic bomb is our worst.

Sorry for the downer post, but it is time for America to look in the mirror when it prosecutes guilty war criminals like Saddam. Also, we can expect nations like Iran to give up nuclear weapons if we hold on to our nukes. We can't change the past so I'm not suggesting we prosecute war criminals for a crime that is 60yrs old, but an apology would be nice. An asking for forgiveness would help. An end to production of nuclear weapons would be a step in the right direction. Again, the purpose of this post was not to offend. The purpose was to show the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki as a war crime. The purpose was to make people realize the only reason why Americans weren't prosecuted as war criminals against Japan was because America won the war. In the end the purpose of this post was to make people realize the hypocrisy of war crimes.



CJE


Coming Next Week: Can You Spare Some Change?

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Planning Your Future In Clay

Planning your future in concrete?

"Yet, O LORD, you are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand." -Isaiah 64:8



Today we ask, how we will plan our future and who will shape it? The temptation in all of us is that it be ourselves who shape the future, but it is not enough to be masters of our destinies. Our insecurities lead us to desire a secure future. If we are to have a secure future, then our future must contain unmovable goals that lead us to "concrete" destinations. It is in unmovable goals and "concrete" destinations that we hope our future can withstand the struggles and crises of life. Why do we resist God from shaping our future? Why do we feel this need to plan our future in concrete?

This temptation to be master planners of our futures in most common in recent college graduates (like me). We sit in our seats at graduation planning it all out. If not already, I'm going to get married. We are going to move back to our hometown where it is safe and familiar. We are going to have 2 kids, a girl and a boy for balance. We will have two dogs. We will buy two fuel-efficient Honda Accords which we will pay off in two years. We will take out a 30yr mortgage at low interest. I will work so my wife can be with the kids. We will attend their high school graduation. Then in their freshman year we will help them move into the dorm. They will meet their spouse and we will pay for a modest wedding. By then we have retired and nothing to do but spoil the grandchildren. Finally, if it all goes to plan we will die together peacefully in our sleep.


Can you feel the concrete start to dry?


The future I just described is not a bad future nor would it be unChristian to live such a future. It's a great plan filled with tons of joy that many get to experience. But reality tells us that life rarely goes according to plan. How many parents don't get to see their children graduate high school or college? How many parents don't get to see their children get married? How many parents divorce? How many widows have to attend their spouse's funeral?

Not only does life not go according to plan, but what if God desires a different plan for us? Planning my future in concrete is a constant struggle for me. It's no secret that I plan on moving to NYC after grad school to work with Shiloh year around. It's a good plan and one I am excited about, but I am trying to be careful not to plan in concrete. I believe God wants me to work with Shiloh, but at the same time I want to be flexible and moldable to God's call. What if God calls me elsewhere? Do I refuse since it doesn't fit my plan? But God keeps calling me to Shiloh. I am trying to let God shape the "How" and "When" of my work with Shiloh.

My plea to you and myself, stop planning your future in concrete. Stop resisting God's call to shape your future. Yes, living among friends and relatives is familiar and safe. Yes, staying in the church building is safe. Many times God's call doesn't make sense, but there is always purpose in God's call. I believe God is calling us to the unknown. God is calling us to get out of the boat and unto the water. God wants us to put our future and security in him rather than ourselves.

The problem with concrete is that you can't shape it once it dries. Instead of planning our future in concrete, let us plan our future in clay. Clay in its original form is always able to be shaped and molded into the potter's desired image. Only when we plan our future in clay can God shape it according to his call. Only when we plan our future in clay can we be flexible enough to receive the flood of blessings God has stored for us. Will you let go of your tight grip on the future? Like Isaiah, will you put your future in the hands of the potter? May God be with all of us this coming week as we seek to become soft clay in the hands of our creator instead of rigid concrete. God be with all of us as we stop planning a "concrete" future and begin planning our future in clay.


CJE


Coming Next Week: The Hypocrisy of War Crimes

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The Lens of Perception

The lens changes everything

This morning we grapple with the notion of perception. Until college I assumed the way I saw the world was the same view as the people around me. If we are both looking at the same thing or experience, then I thought our perception of it would have to be the same. But through events in my college experience like Shiloh and 9/11 my belief in some objective perspective and experience fell to pieces. At 24, I see more than ever that each of us see and judge the world through a unique set of lenses. Our lenses are most shaped by past and present experiences. Like no two people have the same fingerprints, so no two people share the same set of lenses. A better understanding of our lenses helps to bring focus to another's experience that we often don't understand. What has shaped Chris's lenses? Good Question.

1. Gender=Male. As a male I obviously lack serious understanding of the female experience. I have no idea how hard it was to achieve the right to vote. I have no idea how hard it might be for women to compete in a workplace dominated by the prejudices of males. Can I come close to understanding the frustration of a woman who is paid less for doing the same job? Instead of brushing off issues of gender in the workplace or in the church, all males need to take time to sincerely listen to women voice their concerns because for most of history it has been a voice that has been ignored.

2. Race= White. As a white male I lack the understanding of always being second guessed which is a part of everyday life for minorities in America. I am never randomly selected for search at the airport. I am never followed around in the GAP. Rarely do people ask for my ID. Cops always address me by my last name when they give me the ticket. What do I know of being made to feel like a criminal? What do I know of people doubting my intentions? What do I know of being arrested for walking in the wrong subdivision? Nothing. As such I need to surround myself more with people who don't look like me and deny the assumptions of Cable news that would have you believe that crime is an occupation of the minority.

3. Martial Status=Single. As a single white male I don't have a clue as to the simple and complex workings of a marriage. I struggle enough with committing to a favorite cereal let alone another human being for the rest of my life. Have I made any really tough decisions? Not really. But married couples make them everyday with bills and schedules. The single and the married really are two different worlds. Do I know the kinds of sacrifice it takes to keep a marriage going for 60 years? So when I can't understand when my married friends can't go out, maybe there's reason (and a good one).

4. Kids=None. If marriage is a different world, then having kids is a different universe. I love little babies just as much as anyone, but they don't go home with me and I'm glad. All I see is no sleep, diapers, and whiny 2yr old tantrums. But parents see something different all together. It's something I can never see until it happens to me. My only guess is that it is something that redefines grace has you see unconditional love take shape in human form.

5. Religion=Christian. Of the five I believe this to be the greatest influence of anyone's lenses. The confession of Christ as Lord is a bold claim and one many despise. In fact many have been killed for such a confession. The pagan sees the world as a creative accident where our actions have very little consequence. The Christian sees the world as a beautiful creation made with a purpose where our actions have eternal consequences. The pagan sees the need for vengeance and greed. The Christian sees the need for mercy and charity. The pagan sees the need for war. The Christian sees the need for peace. Many disagree with the Christian lens calling it everything from exclusive to idealistic. The Christian need not be offended when people accuse them of seeing the world wrong, but instead take time to understand why one feels the need for vengeance, greed and war.

So there you have five of the many factors that go into shaping the lenses through which I see the world. Right or wrong, it's me. What do your lenses look like? This week take time for better understanding of those around you. If you are surrounded by only those who look, talk, and act like you, then maybe it's time to broaden your experience. It seems awkward at first, but I’m guessing so is the first year of marriage, or your first child, or the first time you stand up for Christ. Maybe it's time for all of us to broaden our lenses of perception.


CJE


Coming Next Week: Setting Your Future In Clay

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Share In The Suffering

Suffering together, a novel concept?

"17Now if we are children, then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ, if indeed we share in his sufferings in order that we may also share in his glory." - Romans 8:17


Today we discuss the idea of suffering. Those born only yesterday are excused from the discussion since you do not yet know the suffering that abounds in this world. For the rest of us, we must engage this discussion because it is essential to the calling and purpose of those who claim Christ as Lord. Christ was called to suffer. Christ's purpose was to suffer. If we are to embody Christ as the example for our lives, what then does the idea of suffering mean for us here in the 21st century? Suffering has been with the world since the beginning and has only increased over the centuries. We have reached a breaking point in the 21st century. Physical and spiritual levees are breaking all over the world unable to contain the immense suffering which has flooded the land and the soul with a suffering that seems never ending. What is the Church to do in the face of such suffering? Do we avoid it? Or do we share it?

What does it mean to suffer? Most people typically think suffering comes in two parts. First, we are surrounded by those whose suffering is physical. Some suffer from broken bones, but the majority suffers from terrible diseases that seem like an unstoppable force that can't be contained. I can't tell you how many people I know personally who have some form of cancer. Diabetes is rampant here in America and becoming more common in children. I haven't even mention the AIDS crisis in Africa which is blazing through Africa with no end in sight. Second, we are in the midst of people whose suffering is emotional. Most often we suffer emotionally for some one else who suffers physically. Funerals of course are the most ripe with emotional suffering. The loss of homes and jobs, like in the Gulf Coast, also bring on intense emotional suffering.

How does the Church respond? We embrace Romans 8:17 and we start to embrace suffering around us. It is human nature to avoid suffering. If you had to choose between relaxing and suffering, which one would you choose? Me too. Our desire to avoid suffering naturally increases when you have a family to keep safe. Parents, obviously, try their hardest to keep suffering as far away from their children as possible. The problem is how to embrace suffering and still keep our families safe. The answer might come in a new understanding of suffering. We need to extend our concept of suffering beyond the realms of the physical and emotional. Maybe we ought to let suffering touch the financial and spiritual areas of our lives. Instead of taking expensive two week vacations to Disney World, maybe our families choose to pay the electric bill of a single parent family who can't afford it. Instead of time shares on the beach, maybe our families share time with the widows that fill our assemblies. Instead of waiting for some one to ask for your forgiveness, maybe our families were the first to apologize for misunderstandings that are always mutual. Instead of clinging to our pride, maybe our families made themselves vulnerable to humility.

Extending the realm of suffering serves two purposes. First, it allows us to still protect our families from physical harm. What physical danger is spending time with a widow? What physical risk is there in paying for all the textbooks of a single parent family? Second, it teaches our families how to be more like Christ. Imagine the lessons our children can learn from spending time with those who are totally alone. Imagine the growth of our children when they are able to provide for a family that has nothing? Our families don't have to become martyrs to understand Christ better. If we allow our bank account and pride to suffer instead, then our families will be safe and taught life changing lessons they will never forget.

Remember, we do not suffer needlessly. Whether it be physical, emotional, financial or spiritual; there is a purpose to our suffering. Purpose still exists no matter how hard it may hide itself amid the hellish circumstances. What is the purpose to our suffering? It is Romans 8:17. We share in the suffering so that we may share in the glory. There is no Exodus without Egypt. There is no resurrection without the cross. Though we suffer now, I am convinced one day it will be redeemed.

So this week I encourage all of us to become aware of the suffering around us. This Sunday, especially, when the suffering most likely will be sitting right next to us. Like sandbags absorb the flood water, may we as disciples of Christ start to absorb the suffering around us. Our confession of Christ as Lord requires us to become more like Christ everyday. We must, as Christ did, begin to share in the suffering.


CJE



Coming Next Week: The Lenses of Perception

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Who Speaks For You?

We must speak for ourselves

It's been a little more than two weeks since Pat Robertson made known his desire for the United States government to kill the Venezuelan president. Thankfully most sane Christians are in complete disagreement with this Christian conservative who has clearly broken with reality. I have noticed a common phrase going around the sane Christian community since Robertson's comments. It goes something like this, "Pat Robertson doesn't speak for me." This phrase leads me to ask many questions. If Pat Robertson doesn't speak for you, then who does speak for you? If the extreme militant Christian right doesn't represent you, then who does represent you?

After giving some thought I have come with my personal list of people I would let speak for me any day of the week (not an exhaustive list and not in specific order except for Jesus)

1. Jesus. As a disciple of Christ he is the obvious first choice for one to speak on my behalf. The problem, however, with the words of Jesus is that they lead to places you don't want to go.

" 9Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. 10Be devoted to one another in brotherly love. Honor one another above yourselves. 11Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. 12Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. 13Share with God's people who are in need. Practice hospitality. 14Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. 15Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. 16Live in harmony with one another.

Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited.17Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everybody. 18If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. 19Do not take revenge, my friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: It is mine to avenge; I will repay,says the Lord. 20On the contrary: If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head.21Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good."

2. Mother Teresa. Here is a woman that gave her body and soul to the work of Christ. Like Christ, she owned nothing and gave all of herself to the poorest and forgotten of the world.

"Being unwanted, unloved, uncared for, forgotten by everybody, I think that is a much greater hunger, a much greater poverty than the person who has nothing to eat."

Sidenote: I remember when her and lady Diana died on the same day. I remember the world being consumed with Diana's death with her funeral televised all over the world. Mother Teresa's death was a blip on the radar with no televised funeral. Mother Teresa was truly a citizen of the upside down kingdom.

3. MLK. I still get goose bumps listening to his speeches (which are on itunes). Though not a perfect man, MLK spoke the perfect truth of God unlike any since.

"The dawn will come. Disappointment, sorrow, and despair are born at midnight, but morning follows. "Weeping may endure for a night," says the Psalmist, "but joy cometh in the morning." This faith adjourns the assemblies of hopelessness and brings new light into the dark chambers of pessimism."

4. Thomas Merton. A Trappist Monk who lived in of all places, Bardstown, KY. His writings are so deep and profound that people are still digging to find their meaning.

"We are not at peace with others because we are not at peace with ourselves, and we are not at peace with ourselves because we are not at peace with God"

5. Oscar Romero. The Archbishop of El Salvador who was killed for protesting the violence that consumed his country. If his words don't convict, please check your pulse.

"i am glad, brothers and sisters, that our church is persecuted precisely for its preferential option for the poor and for trying to become incarnate in the interest of the poor and for saying to all the people, to rulers, to the rich and powerful: unless you become poor, unless you have a concern for the poverty of our people as though they were your own family, you will not be able to save society."


These are but of the few that i would allow to speak and represent me. The problem with all these amazing words is that all who spoke them are dead now. This leaves with us with only one option. We must speak for ourselves. You must speak for you and act out what you believe is true. I must speak and perform outloud my deepest convictions. We, as Christians, must stop waiting for the Max Lucados and Brian McClareans of the world to speak out against injustice and idolatry. There is something in all of us that gives us the strength to speak out with our neighbor who has suffered unjustly. There is something in all of us that allows us to act on our words by taking on the suffering and injustice of others. It is something that comes with being created in the image of God. It is time to stop living in denial and embrace this something.

May God bless you and your loved ones this coming week as you begin to speak and act for yourself. It wont all be sunshine, but at least it will come from you. Who speaks for you? It is a important question. What will your answer be? I leave with you with the encouragement to prepare yourself for those moments when people around will ask, who speaks for you?

CJE


Coming Next WeeK: Sharing In The Suffering

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The Exodus of Public Education

Is abandonment the answer?

There I was sitting in my first graduate seminar ready to begin my journey towards becoming a college professor. We went around the room introducing ourselves and expressed our desires/intentions in pursuing graduate studies. Of the 15 people in the class, three or four indicated they were teaching at the high school level. These teachers, however, went on to say the reason they were in grad school was to attain the degrees necessary so they could leave their high school positions and teach at the college level. They continued their harmonious tone of discontent by saying they had lost their patience and desire to teach high school which in their mind had become a broken system with no signs of healing.

I began to wonder, how many other teachers feel this way? More importantly, if all these teachers are leaving, then who is staying? Here I thought I had it all figured out. I'll get my MA in two years and then proceed to get a Phd which will take four years. Once that is done I can teach at some college in NYC and live happily ever after. But I became conflicted after hearing these teachers declare their exodus from public education. I am began to feel this need to throw my plan in garbage and start from scratch.

I want nothing more than to teach at the college level. But that is what I want. I keep asking myself, what do the children of public education want? what do the children of public education need? What they want is for some one, quite frankly, to give a damn. What they need is an alliance of parent and teacher who work together to assist and encourage the educational development of the child. What they want is the feeling that they matter. What they need is for a nation to stop just looking across the ocean for crises to solve and start looking down the street. So do I look the need of the children of public education in face and then walk on to pursue my desire to teach college? Or do I deny myself my desire and try to help the children of public education?

To those teachers still in public education, please don't leave. Yes, you are vastly underpaid. Yes, you are understaffed. Yes, you are taken advantage of. Yes, the grass is greener on the other side. But stop and ask yourself, is abandonment the solution? Are the problems of public education solved by you leaving them behind? The only way to heal the brokenness of public education is to have brave teachers like you to stay and face the problems head on. You are making a difference in the midst of the madness. You are not alone because I feel more and more that i will be joining you in the struggle to give the children of public education what they need.

There is no doubt that these are dark times for public education. But as MLK said, "Only when it is dark enough can you see the stars." MLK did not deny the dark times in which he lived. He referred to such times as "midnight". It was "midnight" in the struggle for civil rights as he saw his people being lynched and attacked by dogs. Though he acknowledged the "midnight" of the hour, MLK knew that "dawn" would come. Well it is "midnight" in the public schools of America, but fear not because the "dawn" is coming. No matter how much the dark night wants to hold on, it can't stop the rising of the sun. So it is with public education. Though there are many children now in public schools who can't read or do math, there will soon come a time when all children in public schools will read Shakespeare or master the Pythagorean Theorem. Though public schools now are the laughing stock of education, they will soon be the envy of all private institutions. So let us join together, you and I, and deny ourselves what we desire and fulfill the needs of the children of public education. In doing so we will not only see the "dawn" we hope for, but we will also end the exodus of public education.



CJE



Coming Next Week: Who Speaks For You?

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The Son Of A Carpenter

An occupation of humbleness

It was another great summer at camp. Today's post comes from a lesson taught to me by a camper at Shiloh. We were in bible class talking about the story of David and Bathsheba. At the end of every class me and my co-teacher, Bree, always ask the kids to tell us one thing they learned from the story. This particular morning a child had learned and I quote, "Power can change you."

It was a statement so profound that at first it went right over my head. I ask the child if he could better help me understand his comment. He went on to explain how becoming a powerful king had changed David. The child remembered the beginning of David's story when he was just a simple shepherd taking care of the sheep and seeking to do what God wanted and then made the connection that neither me or Bree ever realized. The child saw that it was when David became a powerful king that he committed his terrible sins. It was when David became king that he took Bathsheba and committed adultery. It was when David became king that he tried to cover his sin by getting Uriah drunk. It was when David became king that he had Uriah and other soldiers sent to the front lines to be murdered. The lesson the child taught me is one I will never forget. From a humble shepherd to a corrupt king, power does indeed change you.

In the days that followed that class I began to see that lesson in the life of Jesus. Where would expect the Son of God to be born? The common expectation was most likely some great palace filled with servants and a throne of gold. But as God tends to do, God did the complete opposite of what the people expected. The King of kings, the Lord of lords was not to be born in the grand palace, but in a dirty barn and placed in a filthy feeding box. Jesus was not sent to the live the privileged life of royalty, but sent to live a life of poverty. Jesus was not sent to be served, but to serve. Jesus was not sent to be the son of a corrupt earthly king, but to the son of a humble carpenter.

What if the life of Jesus went the same as David's life? What if Jesus started out a a humble carpenter and then ascended to the ranks of royalty? Would Jesus have been changed by the power that corrupted David? I happen to think so. By the grace of God, Jesus chose to forsake any claim to secular rule. He chose to deny himself the privilege of the palace. Jesus did not want to merely sympathize with the poor from on high, but to empathize with them down low. Because when you are the son of a carpenter you don't get three meals a day. In fact, when you are the son of carpenter you have to work to eat what little you can afford. I believe there were nights when Jesus was a child that he went to bed hungry. When you are the son of a carpenter your family has a hard time paying all the bills. There are very few luxuries to being the son of a carpenter.

When will we learn the lesson the child of Shiloh has already learned? When will we stop trying to climb the ladder of upward mobility? When will we stop grabbing at the reins of power? When will we turn our concern for the poor from sympathy to empathy?

Was the birth and life of Jesus an accident? I think not. It was a purposeful proclamation to the world that the kingdom of God was the kingdom not of the wealthy. The birth and life of Jesus was for all to see and know that the kingdom of God belongs to the poor in spirit. The kingdom belongs not the C.E.O.s of the world, it belongs to the single mothers of the world who decide everyday whether to pay the electric bill or feed the children. The kingdom belongs not to those in corrupt political offices, it belongs to those who work a minimum wage job and then go to the grocery to have their bread and milk taxed. The kingdom does not belong to prep school, ivy-league bound high school student who has only known privilege and success, it belongs to the at-risk student who has only known struggle and failure. The kingdom does not belong to the son of Caeser, it belongs to the son of a carpenter.



CJE


Coming Next Week: The Exodus of Public Education

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Welcome Back !

Hello from Birmingham.

It's hard to believe camp is over and I am here in Alabama ready to begin grad school. The more time I spend here in Birmingham the more better I feel about the decision I made to come here. I am currently taking six hours and hope to pick up one more class to bring it to nine hours. It might not seem like a lot, but with just those three classes I will have a total of 27 books to read over the semester. My dorm room was a little shady at first, but after a little help from my parents it is ready to go. Everything is ready to go and I sit down for my first class on Monday.

Despite the intense heat I am growing more and more comfortable here. There is one experience, however, that I have never had before. The experience of being totally alone. I know absolutely no one in Birmingham. Before, going to Lipscomb or even moving to NYC or going to camp; I always knew at least one person. This time around I know not a single soul. It's exciting one minute and lonely the next, but I will have plenty of school work to keep me company.

With my return from camp to civilization comes the return of the Counterpoint. For those who still cling to their national pride and earthly existence, I must warn you that you are going to be challenged this coming year. Come ready to be confronted about the assumptions you have made about the world and your place in it. We still live in a time of war. We still live in a time of obscene wealth in the midst of obscene poverty. We still live in a time when some believe the means of Christ are impractical and at the same time label the means of Bush as productive. The time for holding back is over. It is time to step on some toes. I hope to see you back over the next year as together we strive to look less like the world and more like Christ. Because in a time of conformity, some one needs to be the counterpoint.



CJE



Coming Next Week: The Son of A Carpetener

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And Chris Wept

There is pleanty to weep for

I know I said I wasn't going to post till September, but I am enjoying a weekend break from camp and feel the need to post. The shortest verse in the bible is one of the most powerful. It is John 11:35, "And Jesus wept." Up and until a few days ago I had never experienced the act of weeping. Yes I have cried many times before, yet I had never wept for anything before. But something happen to me on July 13th 2005 that literally brought me to my knees weeping uncontrollably.

In order to understand my emotional state on July 13th I need to tell this story from the beginning. It was the summer of 2000 and my first summer as a counselor at Camp Shiloh. Through the course of the summer I met many amazing children who opened my eyes. There was one kid in particular that stood out among the rest. For the purpose of this public blog I will call him James (so that I might protect his privacy and dignity). James was an extremely sensitive boy. Some sensitive kids clam up when they feel pressure. Some kids lash out in a violent rage. James was one of the latter. Like a spark near two-cycle gasoline, James would explode at the drop of a hat. He would fight or curse anyone he felt was trying to control his surroundings. It didn't matter if you were a camper or a counselor, James would fight you for ever inch of control.

Well I've returned to camp every summer since 2000. James also came back summer after summer. Each summer he grew and matured as he got taller and taller. This summer he came back to teen session taller than me. Though James had matured physically since I first met him at age 9, he was still consumed with a violent rage. It had lessened since 2000, but it was clear when teen session began that his rage was still brewing beneath the surface.

It was almost the weekend when James earned his first of three discipline strikes. After three strikes a child must be sent home. He earned his first strike because he refused to walk back to the cabin in a light rain. It sounds ridiculous, but you have to understand is that when James is pressured his shield of rage goes up and he is no longer capable of making a rational decision. On Saturday James earned his second strike in similar fashion of refusing to go somewhere with the cabin. I honestly thought he would be sent home by Monday, but he actually made it to Wednesday. It was Wednesday morning when he earned his third and final strike.

Wednesday was the last full day of camp. Like always we began the day with breakfast. Our cabin was quietly eating breakfast when James and another boy in the cabin began to trade insults. The other boy wasn't even able to get out a second insult before James exploded from table cursing and challenging the other kid to fight him there in the rec hall. I managed to direct James towards the door where my brother and a volunteer had to hold him as rage grew. After he cooled down he was informed of this third strike. My brother packed his bags and placed them in the car. He then came to me and told me it was time to say good-bye.

James was already sobbing by time he reached the car. I teared up at first when I was holding him trying to tell him that everything was going to be ok. Then I let him go and he started for the car. It was at that moment when my tears turned into a weeping flood. So much weeping that I had to be held by another staff member for a good five minutes.

After 6yrs of watching James hurt and struggle with his rage my heart had been completely torn in two. My heart was torn because there was nothing I could do to take away the rage. My heart was torn because I knew that Shiloh was the only light in James's world which is still filled with darkness. My heart was torn because James was not going to leave camp angry, but leave camp knowing he will always be loved by me and the rest of Shiloh.

This experience has led me to a greater love for John 11:35. A reason I believe Jesus began to weep was because his heart, like mine, was torn in two. There he was in the midst of his creation and they were all suffering. I've only watched James suffer for 6 years. Now just imagine Jesus having the witness the suffering of his creation since the beginning. I am fully aware that me and Jesus are not one in the same. But he was just as human as I am now. Like letting go of James was my breaking point, so letting go of Lazarus a breaking point for Jesus.

My question to you is, What will it take for you to weep? Have you grown so callous to the suffering around you? Has your heart grown so hard that you no longer feel anything for the broken people of this world? There is war, AIDS, and cancer plaguing this world. Suffering is in the inner city. Suffering is in the suburbs. What will you do in the midst of such suffering? Will you continue to walk on by? Or will you take time to do as Jesus did and weep? Because I can only speak for Chris (myself) as to what happened when he came into contact with such suffering. What did Chris do? Chris wept.


CJE

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Seize The Day

KEATING
"Gather ye rosebuds while ye may."
The Latin term for that sentiment
is Carpe Diem. Now who knows
what that means?

Meeks immediately puts his hand up.

MEEKS
Carpe Diem. That's "seize the day."

KEATING
Very good, Mr.-

MEEKS
Meeks.

KEATING
Meeks. Another unusual name. Seize the
day. Gather ye rosebuds while ye may.
Why does the writer use these lines?

CHARLIE
Because he's in a hurry.

KEATING
No, ding!

Keating slams his hand down on an imaginary buzzer.

KEATING
Thank you for playing anyway. Because we
are food for worms lads. Because, believe
it or not, each and every one of us in
this room is one day going to stop
breathing, turn cold, and die.

Keating turns towards the trophy cases, filled with trophies, footballs,
and team pictures.

KEATING
Now I would like you to step forward over
here and peruse some of the faces from
the past. You've walked past them many
times. I don't think you've really looked
at them.

The students slowly gather round the cases and Keating moves behind them.

KEATING
They're not that different from you, are
they? Same haircuts. Full of hormones,
just like you. Invincible, just like you
feel. The world is their oyster. They
believe they're destined for great things,
just like many of you. Their eyes are full
of hope, just like you. Did they wait until
it was too late to make from their lives
even one iota of what they were capable?

Because you see gentlmen, these boys are
now fertilizing daffodils. But if you listen
real close, you can hear them whisper their
legacy to you. Go on, lean in.

The boys lean in and Keating hovers over Cameron's shoulder.

KEATING (whispering in a gruff voice)
Carpe.

Cameron looks over his shoulder with an aggravated expression on his face.

KEATING
Hear it?


(whispering again) Carpe. Carpe Diem.

Seize the day boys,
make your lives extraordinary.

- from the movie, Dead Poets Society

I apologize for the long dialogue, but it is the foundation of today's post. It comes from one of my top-ten movies called Dead Poets Society. It is a deeply moving story that centers around one high school scholar who has to battle his overbearing father who controls every aspect of his life and his love of the art of poetry and drama. It is a must-see for anyone looking to be inspired and challenged at the same time. As seen in the dialogue above there is a theme of "Carpe Diem" that runs through out the film. How many of us have grown content with life's routines? How many of us complain about the dullness of life and do nothing to change it? How many of us need to wake up and seize the day?

First, everyday is unique. When we wake in the morning we need to rid ourselves of the notion that somehow today is going to be no different than yesterday. Each new morning is a new creation from God that the world has never seen before and a morning that will never be seen again. What a honor it is to witness the Creator in the midst of the creating process. In school we learn that "matter cannot be created nor destroyed", but how awesome it is to watch God break the laws of physics by creating something from nothing. So when you say, "Today was nothing special", you are selling short the Creator and his creation.

Second, everyday is a chance to start anew. Not only is everyday unique, but each new day gives us a chance to start over. How crucial are new mornings to our families? Whether the argument was between spouses, parent and child or brother and sister, each new day is an opportunity to start over with the ones we love. Whatever harmful words were said, whatever regrets we have; all of it is left in yesterday. Each new day is chance for the ungodly sinner to repent and change things for the better. All of us who fall short need to seize every day of forgiveness that God offers. There are some who like to throw the sins of yesterday in our face, but thanks to be God that the blood of Jesus Christ wipes away the sins of yesterday and allows to start anew today.

It is time this summer make the most of each new day God is going to bless you with. Don't grow content with the routine, but seek out new possibility hidden within your routine. It is time to stop complaining about dullness of life and do something about it. It is time to make the most of every opportunity. It is time to wake up and SEIZE THE DAY


CJE


Coming Next Week: Unfortunately this was my last post until September since I am leaving for Shiloh next week. I will try to repost old pieces, but there will be nothing new until the fall. So for the two people who read this blog I do apologize, but I hope you come back in September.

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Ohio Distortion Project

We have reached critical mass

In glancing through Larry James's blog about the Texas Restoration Project I found that Ohio is already ahead of the game. The Ohio Restoration Project already has a website called the Ohio Restoration Project.

This is the height of American Christianity at its worst. American Christianity has so diluted Christiany from it's original practice in the N.T. that it has ceased to relevant. The suffering servant Jesus or the cross can no longer be found in American Christianity. It is no longer Christianity, but what I call "Americanity".

Never have I seen the gospel so distorted for one's political and financial gain. It is ok to love America, but never ever should that love supercede your love for Christ. So anyway check the site and be prepared to be appalled by the gross idolatry.


CJE


Still Coming This Week: Seize The Day

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The Essential Church

Would Your Church Be Missed?

Some time back in April I attended a youth retreat with the church youth group. It was called "40 hours of Passion" and its speaker was powerful. Every session was complete gold and out of the many lessons I took from the weekend there was one that stood out among the rest. The speaker posed a very interesting question. What if for some reason the church you attend had to close its doors? Whether it be for financial reasons or a spiritual split, what if the next sunday you came to find your church all boarded up? Then came the question that blew my mind, "If your church did close, would it be missed?

Would the community surrounding your church even notice you left the neighborhood? Would the neighbors just walk on by as if the church was just another closed down building? More importantly, could the community survive if your church left the neighborhood or would it be business as usual? Is your church essential or is it replaceable?

What does the essential church look like? First, the essential church does not waste its energy on futile crusades that distract it from making the kingdom a real and tangible place here on earth. One such crusade is the conservative church's useless attempt to defend "the sanctity of marriage". Does the conservative church honestly believe that no gay marriage really solves anything? Just because a state recongnizes the marriage doesn't mean that God has to uphold it. Even if you ban it, you still have people living in sin. How many churches are fighting this losing battle? How may more people could the church serve? How many more widows could the church comfort?

Second, the essential church embodies Gal 3:26-28. The essential church is a reflection of the community that surrounds it. The community is made up of all different kinds of cultures, traditions, genders and colors. If a church is to be essential, then it cannot pretend that the white male is only one allowed to speak or sing aloud in its worship to God. Those who discourage women and minorities from being a part of the worship is denying the truth. They are denying Christ's sacrifice and resurrection that has destroyed such barriers.

Third, the essential church must look and act in complete contradiction to the ways of this world. People are looking for something different. They are looking for change. In an age of zealous patriotism it hard to distinguish the Church from the White House. The essential church is a part of a kingdom that is not of this world. If the church is just going to be a mouth piece for the government, then people don't want to be a part of it because they see no difference between the two. The means and ends of the kingdom are vastly different from the ways and ends of the government and the world. The community would have no choice, but be attracted to a church that loved its enemies and put others before itself.

Is your church essential to the community? If not, then why not? I want to encourage all of us to strive to make our churches essential. To make our churches absolutely necessary to the community's existence. To make our churches so vital that a gaping hole would be left if it were to leave. To make our churches so important that people would notice the boarded up windows and just not walk by. It's not too late. There still time to turn it around. It may not happen tomorrow, but I hope and pray that all of us will live to see the day when all of becomes members of an essential church.



CJE



Coming Next Week: Seize The Day

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The Art Of Disagreement

You're Wrong, I'm Right

I think it's pretty evident that many people don't agree with me. But when you think about it, how many of us agree 100% with everything our friends and family believe? Parents and children often disagree on a wide range of issues. Even though a husband and wife are madly in love I would guess that they too do not see eye to eye on everything. Some of the biggest disagreements, sadly, occur between the brothers and sisters that make up the Church. These disagreements can be so vicious and bitter that it can physically and spiritually split a church in two. Since I find myself in constant disagreeements I would like to offer some suggestions on how to better disagree with those at home and in the Church.

First, Be sure to keep the tone/volume of your voice in check. Too many times we let a simple difference of opinion turn into shouting matches. This happens because people assume incorrectly that in order for my opinion to win out I must talk over another's voice. The result is that you have a never ending escalation of volume. Each person trying to talk louder than the person before. Before you know it people are no longer upset about a person's opinion, but are upset from the lack of respect you feel when some shouts at you. Keep your tone calm and low so you can make the person feel comfortable and they will actually listen to what you have to say. It is when people feel uncomfortable or threaten that they tune out.

Second, You must be willing to concede the unknown. In case you haven't realized, YOU ARE NOT GOD. You are not omniscient or omnipresent. You are not the Alpha and Omega. You did not set the world's foundation. So that means your deepest convictions may be false or wrong. We're not on some debate team where you never yield to your opponent. We are simple finite creatures who have a limited understanding of the world around us. I believe deeply in christian pacifism, but I do not believe I am 100% right and that my belief in christian pacifism is infallible. If a disargeement is to meaningful, then you must concede that your position does have weaknesses and in the end may be wrong. You must be willing to admit you don't have all the answers. Both sides must be willing to concede to the unknown that all of us as humans cannot reach.

Third, Don't take it personal. A bitter disagreement inevitably turns personal. At some point the person will make it personal with a "What would YOU do if?". They put their opponent in all of these silly "what if" situations and ask them how they would respond in the hope of proving their point. The opponent typically out of spite will respond contrary to what he or she wanted to hear. Then moral accusations start flying and people start getting really angry. If a disagreement is to be productive, then do not put the other person is no-win situations in a vain hope to glorify yourself. Even if the other person wants to make it personal, then don't sink to their level. Take the high ground and people will listen to you.

So when you are in the heat of a disagreement this week please remember this advice. Also remember that the best thing about a democracy is the voice of dissent. If you are not willing to allow for the voice of dissent, then Constitution and the Bill of Rights and the Declaration of Independence are meaningless. Unity can exist is the midst of disagreement. It sounds strange, but we can find our unity in the understanding all of us disagree with each other on some level or another. Just because we disagree does not mean we cannot love one another. My prayer is that God will be with all of us as we try to loving perfect the art of disargreement.


CJE


Coming next week: The Essential Church

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U2: Masters of Their Craft

In the presence of greatness

Well the U2 concert has come and gone. The reason why I haven't wrote about it sooner was because I need to process what I experienced at the Continental Airlines Arena this past Wednesday. The concert was amazing, loud and incredible. It was awesome to watch true masters of their craft playing right in front of us. As I've told some, I liken the concert to being able to watch Leonardo paint the Mona Lisa or watch Beethoven compose the No.9 Symphony. Not only is U2 made of great artists, but even better performers. Their ability to play show after show all year long is awesome to watch. Bono has been singing for 20+yrs and Wednesday night he sounded like just sung his first verse. His ability to keep his voice intact is unbelievable. One quote I took with me from the many that night was when Bono said, "Jew, Christian, Muslim.....we are all sons of Abraham." Think about that one for awhile because I still am.


CJE


Here's the Set List:
City of Blinding Lights
Vertigo
Stories for Boys - Pump It Up
Elevation
Gloria
The Ocean
Beautiful Day
Miracle Drug
Sometimes You Can't Make It On Your Own
Love and Peace or Else
Sunday Bloody Sunday
Bullet the Blue Sky - When Johnny Comes Marching Home
Running to Stand Still
Pride
Where the Streets Have No Name
One

Encore(s):
Zoo Station
The Fly
Mysterious Ways
All Because Of You
Yahweh
I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For
Bad
40

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No Time For Marriage

Putting On The Chains

Finally, what you all have been waiting for. A 24 year old single guy who lives with parents is going to set the record straight and give you his view of marriage. At this point of my life I have taken a different view to marriage. To me at 24, I see marriage as a hindrance. I see it as a obstacle course full of barriers that block me from what I want to do and where I want to go. I don't know, maybe it's because I went to a Church of Christ college where many people determined another's worth by their marital status. So today I am going to take a stand for the single guy or girl who is tired of feeling like a second citizen just because he or she is not handcuffed by the chains of marriage.

First, Marriage binds you to the "double-check". An estimated 90% of my friends are either married or engaged(including my younger brother). Any time I ask one of the guys if they want to go to a movie or a ballgame I always get the same response, "Hey man that sounds great, just let me double-check with the wife". More times than not after completing the double-check I hear, "Hey man sorry, but my wife just reminded me we'd already planned to spend the evening with her third cousin on her mother's side." You see when you are single you are your own double-check. There is nobody to check with. More importantly, there is no one making commitments for you. You alone decide where you are going to and who you are going to hang out with. Sometimes getting my married friends to do stuff feels like I'm putting in a vacation request at work crossing my fingers that the boss will approve.

Second, The roots of Marriage makes the world smaller. Right now I see marriage as making one's world smaller and by that I mean it makes his or her circle of influence smaller. In marriage, roots start to grow and soon take hold which inables the person from moving freely as he or she once did. A once big open world full of possiblity suddenly turns into a world of limitations. Married people can't just take off somewhere unknown at the drop of a hat. There's plannning and considerations that have to be made. Sure married couples take the occassional exotic trip to Europe or Central America, but only after months and months of planning. The single person is free to go wherever at moment's notice. There are no roots holding the single person to the ground keeping him or her in the same small place. The single person is free to roam what Tom Petty calls The Great Wide Open.

Third, Marriage is one big compromise. Married couples are forever making compromises for each other which is to average person is a beautiful thing. I, however, cannot afford to compromise at this point in my life. As you know my one desire right now is to live in NYC and work with Shiloh. This desire is so strong I am not willing to compromise it for anything. Some might call that selfish, but how is the desire to serve at-risk youth selfish? If there is even a slight possiblity that marriage could compromise my desire, then marriage is not for me right now.

Some people look at me strange when I tell them I don't want to get married. As if there is something worng with me. They are forever asking me, "Why don't you?". Forever asking for reasons when in fact the only reason I need is that I don't want to. I am not preparing for marriage as some have suggested to me. I am preparing for NYC and the work of Shiloh. If you are happily married, then God bless you and I wish you nothing but the best. All I am saying is that not everyone in the world wants or needs to get married. All I am asking for is a little respect for the single guy as I continue to respect those who are deeply in love and happliy married.



CJE


Coming Next Week: The Art of Disagreement

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Shiloh: Year 6

Former campers and myself: Tina, Raven, Jeanette, Sam, Jason, Ashleigh




It really is amazing how the little moments in our lives can completely change the course our lives will take. One such little moment for me occurred in early May 2000. My freshman year was just wrapping up and I went to a college devo at local church in Nashville, TN. At the end of the devo my roommate's older brother, Todd and his wife Ashley, spoke about this summer camp called Shiloh and how they were in need of some guy counselors. It sounded interesting, but to completely honest it went in one ear and out the other. As I was saying good-bye to friends I went up front to say good-bye to Todd. Just to say good-bye. With no intention of asking more about Shiloh. But all Todd could talk about was Shiloh. "So what are you doing this summer? You should come to Shiloh. Why Not? You have nothing else to do." He was so persistent that at the end of the conversation I found myself saying, "I'll think about it." I went home to think and talk with my parents to get their approval. By the next night I was committed to go to place I had never been before or even seen in a picture. I was going to Shiloh.

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It is now May 2005. It has been six years since that providential moment in that Nashville church. It's incredible how much can change in six years. How much the camp has changed. How much the kids have changed. How much I have changed. The picture above is just one example of the changes that have taken place. Six years ago they were small and immature kids who loved receiving the love and concern from the counselors. Today they are full grown mature adults who are now full time staff members and they have the staff shirts to prove it.

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Blessing, Gift, Honor, Privilege. All of these words are not sufficient to describe what it is when you see these former campers give back to present children of Shiloh. I can't explain what it is to see them give the same love to the campers that they had received as a child. The seeds that were planted in these campers more than six years ago have now come to harvest. To see former seeds watering seeds of their own is an experience that cannot be defined. I can't explain it because it is not my doing. It is completely God at work in the lives of men and women.
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So this week I encourage you not to ignore the little moments of life. For me that little moment in that Nashville church turned out to have huge impact on my life. It changed the course of my life which naturally changed the destination of my life. What is your course? What is your destination? These are questions we need to think about. As for me, my course is set and my destination confirmed. I believe my course is to do God's will for my life and I believe that will lead me to my destination which still is and always will be Shiloh.

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CJE

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Coming Next Week: No Time For Marriage

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P.S. - After thinking long and hard. I have decided not to pursue Hunter College, and to choose to attend UAB in the fall. To be back in NYC right away, but my passion for study is the Civil Rights Movement. So I will get to NYC eventually, but for now it's Alabama.

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War Before Education

I use to hesitate speaking to others about my belief and conviction in Christian pacifism. I didn't want to upset anyone and was worried I might offend someone I love. Over the past year, however, I have gone from closed mouth to someone who can't shut up about the legitimacy of Christian pacifism. This new found boldness came from the realization that the majority of Christians and non-Christians are only taught one side. Whether from the pulpit or in the classroom, all a person hears is the reasons for participating in war. At best they are taught "just war" theory and at worst they are taught "kill or be killed". So if someone is going to continue to give reasons for participation in war, then I am going to be a voice of dissent and challenge their assumptions which in reality have no substance. There are many dimensions that make up my conviction for Christian pacifism. Besides the obvious spiritual dimension in which war conflicts with the commandments of Jesus, there is also an economic dimension which makes war an impractical and insane practice.

In Feburary 2005, the Washington Post analyzed the President's proposed budget for 2006 and their findings were astounding.

Proposed 2006 Department Budgets:

Department of Housing and Urban Development--> 28.5 billion
Department of State--> 38.1 billion
Department of Education--> 56 billion

Department of Defense--> 419.3 billion (78 billion on weapons systems)

Does anyone else see a serious problem?

A good friend of mine told me a good way to see what is important to someone is to see where they spend 1) Their time 2) Their energy 3) Their money

First, Where does the nation spends its time? While the nation spends its time with all kinds of matters, defense is definitely given top priority. Think of all that goes into forming attack plans and bombing strikes and counter offensives. The time that goes into finding the most effective way to defeat the enemy. The odd thing is that for all their time planning it seems that more innocent civilians than combatants are killed in warfare. Imagine what could happen to our education system if we spent just as time thinking of better ways to educate our children. Thinking and developing new and sharper curriculum to enhance the learning process. Thinking of better ways to use the various kinds of media we have in the 21st century. Thinking of better ways to discipline children that would build up and strengthen rather than what tears down and destroys a child. But this kind of thinking isn't even on the radar of the national conscious. We seem more concerned about Al-Qaeda and the war on terror.

Second, Where does the nation spend its energy? According to the Washington Post article, 78 billion of the 419 billion goes to weapon systems alone. 78 billion dollars given over to develop more efficient means to kill people. 78 billion dollars to develop more efficient means to torture people. Many people make an entire career on delveloping new means of technology that serve one end: to destroy other human beings. Imagine if we spent just as much time developing the young minds of today. If we spent as much time giving our children a well rounded education. A education that not only taught the basic math and reading, but allowed our students to express themselves in art and music. Sadly, many art and music programs have become expendable in order to meet the ever growing defense budget.

Third, Where does the nation spend its money? If the numbers were some what close, then there would be little reason for discussion. The department of education was budgeted 56 billion dollars while the department of defense gets 419 billion dollars. As you can see the numbers are not even close. I know 56 billion is nothing to frown at, but how much stronger could education be with just half of the defense budget. NYC public schools has a budget of almost 2 billion and that's just one city, but somehow the department of education is suppose to provide for nation's children with 56 billion dollars. I can't explain the reason for the canyon of difference, but it seems to me that we would rather find news ways to destroy our fellow human being, than teaching him or her to read and write.

I know money is not the cure-all, but it is absolutely a part of the solution. As it stands right now some teachers can earn more picking up trash for the city and could probably get better health insurance. By providing better salaries and better insurance schools could choose from the cream of the crop rather than dragging from the bottom of the barrel. My brother, a social worker, has told me story after story of kids in middle school who can't read and can't do math because they can't read word problems. Vital programs are being cut from our schools while more and more money is going into the bottomless pit called Iraq which is only leading to more insurgent attacks.

So this week ask yourself what is most important. Is it to have a supreme weapons system capable of destroying thousands of people? Or is it to make sure our children are given the best education possible? Our defense should not rely on bullets, bombs, or F-16 Tomcats. Education is our best defense. Only education can defend us against the true enemies who are ignorance, hate and fear. The only way our enemies will succeed is if we continue to put war before education.

CJE

Coming Next Week: Shiloh: Year 6!

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