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A Word From The Pastor - Summer 2008 |
Jesus said, Beware of practicing your piety before others in order to be seen by them; for then you have no reward from your Father in heaven. When you give, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be done in secret. And whenever you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father in secret. And whenever you fast, do not look dismal…but wash your face so that your fasting may be seen not by others but by your Father who is in secret… Matthew 6 (Selected verses)
I expect there are some of you who are ready to take another step forward in your journey with Jesus. Concentrating on one or more of the Spiritual Disciplines may be just what you’re looking for. These disciplines include daily prayer, Bible study, fasting, daily meditations, worship, silence and listening to God, journaling, service to others, small-group accountability and a host of other practices intended to draw you closer and deepen your relationship with your Creator.
Pastor Bud spoke movingly of prayer in the last newsletter. Bible study is something you can do on your own or in a group. Both methods have good and bad points to them. Alone, you can study at your own pace and use whatever meditations, commentaries or reference materials you wish in your personal study. The down side is you have no one to ask questions of or to help you work through passages that may be difficult or controversial. In a class, you have people with whom you can discuss your questions, your ideas and who will give you new ways of thinking about and applying the Bible to daily life. The down side is that you commit to being at a certain place at a specified time.
Fasting, particularly from food, is probably one of the least favored and most intimidating disciplines. It certainly is not for everyone, especially those who must take daily medication that specifies “Must be taken with FOOD.” Fasting would also not work for those who have medical conditions where regular nutrition is required. However, for those who may be interested in fasting from food, John Wesley, Methodism’s founder, followed a practice you may like to try. One day a week, Wesley would eat a good breakfast and then fast till breakfast the next day. He would then donate the price of lunch and dinner to a worthy cause.
You can also get creative with the concept of fasting by going without something you really love one day each week. Television time, PlayStation time and dessert are just a few examples. But maybe fasting is just not for you. Not to worry—see the other choices above and see Pastor Bud or myself if you have questions.
We are considering offering several new classes in the fall: a short-term Bible study for women, one for couples, another for Spiritual Disciplines and one on the United Methodist social principles. Longer term, we’re considering perhaps 2 Disciple classes. You’ll see more on this in August and September. In the meantime, consider the Spiritual Disciplines as a means toward growing stronger in your faith and closer to God.
On behalf of Bud, Colleen, Kim and I, we wish you a happy, relaxing and fun-filled summer. And may you sense God’s presence in all you do.
Your Servant in Christ,
Chuck