just read: Pagan Christianity

I am half-way through a thought provoking book titled Pagan Christianity. Essentially, the authors trace the history of our current church practices -  the roots of practices such as sermons, tithe, church buildings, etc. The authors contrasts these things with their idea of what the New Testament church is meant to be.

This book makes me long for their description of community. A place where every individual is living out their calling and utilizing their talents and gifts. A place where there is a sense of responsibility to help the poor and suffering. Authentic community where people are real with each other, share burdens and joys. Who wouldn't want to be part of something like that?

There is a follow-up to this book titled Reimagining Church. I might read that next, if i can get my hands on it...

The person who recommended this book said:  "be careful not to become a bull-headed revolutionary who contests what is currently practiced.” This book does get me fired up, and many of the ideas speak to my soul, but I do think the advice was sound so I will heed it and not get on a soap box here and instead just recommend the book and let you decide for yourself.

I was telling my mom about the book the other day and she said it probably isn't a good idea for me to be reading something like this that is critical of existing Christian institutions when I am about to become a seminary student. That is probably also sound advice. But, I've already applied, been accepted, and need to accomplish this if I plan to continue my career with my current employer. So, I will select my courses carefully.

My first choice is a Philosophy course on Christ and culture. The course description sounds interesting. I hope it will explore ideas similar to those in this book. I pray my expectations are correct. Classes begin June 20. Since it will be part of my life, things I am learning will likely find their way on this blog.

What are your thoughts on church as an institution? Is it meeting the needs of society both spiritually and physically?

climbing a palm tree - attempt #1

I was so inpired by watching others climb palm trees I thought I ought to give it a try. I now know the secret, there are hand holds. How hard can it be? There is a palm tree in the yard of one of our provincial offices. I started with enthusiasm, kicking off my shoes, and determined to get up a few rungs. I never expecting to get to the top, but was at least hoping to make a decent attempt.

Here I go...and with an audience!

Not too far up the trunk and the wind blew. Remember the audience? It is actually all around.

Decided to try again another day, when I am more appropriately dressed. Maybe next time I will wear pants!

Any bets on how far up I might make it on attempt #2?

palm trees. sunshine. winter?

We now live in the Southern Hemisphere. What does that mean? It means it is winter here in Mozambique. We went from the heat of summer in Cambodia to the start of winter in Mozambique. The difference between the two is really just the amount of humidity we experienced - the sun just keeps on shining. I still walk around in t-shirts and sandals.

With a lack of clues like colored leaves to tell one that winter is coming - how does one know?

Without snow or sweaters - how does one define winter?

I realized recently there is a clue. It isn't in fall leaves and pumpkins. It isn't in gloves or wool. It has to do with the sun.

There are shorter days in winter. It is dark by 5:30pm, thus, it is winter. I look forward to the summer, when I can get home before dark.

Could you live without fall leaves, snow, or spring blooms?

black chicken

Premdas from India (a personal hero of mine, the pastor who married us, and the only truly great person I've ever had the pleasure of meeting) has been sick. He recently had heart surgery and is recovering, though it doesn't look like he will be returning to full time ministry. The announcement of his sickness reminded me how home sick I am for India. I must get back! I must. And soon. But how? When? I don't know...yet.

Anyway, while on a recent visit to a province in Mozambique I saw black and white chickens running around - not chickens colored like zebras, but chickens of different colors. These chickens reminded me of Premdas. Why? Because he has a saying related to black and white chickens. He would call all of the foreigners "white chickens." One time I asked him why. He explained to me that white chickens are more fragile, they melt in the sun, they require more care, they need special diets. Apparently black chickens are different.

According to Premdas, black chickens are more resilient. Survivors. Indians are black chickens.

I have learned so much from Premdas about how to be an authentic person who dedicates themselves for the benefit of others. He's been doing it for decades. I still have so much to learn from him, my Indian daddy. Today, I am grateful for the lessons in resilience and was reminded by the sight of a black chicken.

thriving in Africa

There is at least one thing that seems to be thriving in Africa (rural Africa in particular). I've never seen so many in all my life!

What's that?

I don't know the local name for them, but in America we call them Dung Beetles.

You may not be able to tell from the photo, but this one is rolling a "treasure" back first to some secret lair.