Letter to the editor

Last week I stumbled on a column written by the managing editor of Southern Grey county's finest newspaper, "The Post".

She wrote a "how-to-understand-what-women-are-really-saying" guide for guys.

I wrote a letter of response and it was published in today's newspaper.

Click here to read it.

Me and my Mouth

Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.

I wish I was better at that.

Lately, my mouth has led me into some uncomfortable situations.

My most recent New Testament class is a good example of opening my mouth too quickly. Without thinking, I asked my class to reconsider a theological position re: understanding the sovereignty of God.  Note to self, don't go there.

On Sunday morning a man in the congregation confronted me, yet again, about concerns he had with my area of church oversight.  As soon as he opened his mouth I knew mine would be opening soon thereafter.  I wanted to tell him to "bite me".  I didn't but I did I end up regretting what I said. 

Today I received an email from someone with high expectations.  Without thinking I pounded out a quick, angry, and articulate response challenging his assumptions of me.  Before hitting send I reread my response.  God spoke to me.  He recommended that I not send the email.  He suggested that I reword my response.

I took my hands off the keyboard, took a deep breath, and sent a light and openhanded reply.

I think my most recent interaction proves that an ability to read/rehearse words before you send/speak them is a valuable discipline.

If only my mouth typed words.  I might have a better chance of locking it down until I've taken a moment to respond appropriately.  

Coffeehouse church

Last Sunday evening we did church in a Walkerton coffeehouse.

My tradition typically spends a lot of time preparing two aspects of a church service: the music (we call it worship) and the sermon.

The coffeehouse was different.  There was no live music and no sermon.

We spent time reflecting on a painting and a song.  We spent time listening to each other.  We spent time drinking coffee and eating brownies.  

Everyone was empowered to participate.  

At the end of the night I reflected on some highlights: one person dropped in off the street and said they were glad they did; our surveys indicated unanimous interest in doing it again; and I was inspired to keep dreaming.

Here's some video footage from the evening.

Changing the conversation

"Change takes place when people relax and start conversing with each other."

One of my colleagues made that statement in a sermon this past Sunday.

If that's the case, and I believe it is, then why do we make such a big deal out of the Sunday morning show?  

Last I checked, I didn't have very many meaningful conversations sitting in a pew.

Anyone else ready for change?

1, 2, 3, 4.... surprise

Tomorrow is my wife's 30th birthday.

Here are 10 things I love about her:

10.  She uses "I" statements

9.  She acts more like Jesus than I do

8.  She has low expectations of me

7.  This one isn't for a public blog

6.  I don't know a better, more adaptable, visionary artist

5.  She can say controversial things and people still love her

4.  She would "sell it all" tomorrow

3.  She is the best communicator I have ever met

2.  She thinks and speaks with positivity and optimism

1.  People change for the better because of her influence in their lives 

Yesterday, I scooped her up and took her with me for a little "walk in the woods".  You'll have to contact her if you want more details.