Tending to the burning bushes

Posted on February 16, 2011 by David Nuottila

As you begin reading this post, consider a few questions.  When was the last time that you heard God speaking to you?  When was the last time you actually became still so you could listen?  And what was your response the last time you felt God tugging at your arm, inviting you to a place that you really didn’t care to go?

 As each day passes there is never a shortage of opportunities for ministry in and around our community.  Those burning bushes God uses to get our attention seem to be set ablaze at nearly every turn.  They could take the form of a woman sitting at a bus stop, a homeless person staking claim to a park bench, or as was the case yesterday, a parishioner making a frantic phone call to my office.  I am usually amazed at what God can do each time I am invited into difficult and stressful situation in the life of someone whom I am called to shepherd.  Yesterday was one such day when God called me to a place I’d rather not go.  Suddenly, I felt a bit like Moses when he saw the burning bush.  What makes me so special that they should listen to me?  What if I don’t have the ability to do what is required?  What good can come out of my simply being there?

Moses is certainly one of the central characters of the Old Testament narrative, yet before he became such a key figure, he could have been best described as someone who was short of confidence and filled with doubt.  He was born a slave but raised in the house of Pharaoh and later rejected by even his own people.  He had to flee Egypt because he killed a guard.  When God finally got Moses’ attention he was but a shepherd tending a flock that wasn’t even his own.  God’s call wasn’t extended in dramatic fashion.  There were no lightning bolts or loud claps of thunder.  Instead, God used the sight of a burning bush.

This is where Moses gives us one of those great theological movements.  Instead of sitting there with a puzzled look on his face, Moses turns aside.  Turning aside is one of those things we learn about in seminary.  Turning aside means dropping what you are doing, forgetting what you are thinking about so that you can look and listen for God.  Moses turned aside in order to pay attention and noticed that this bush was not consumed by the flames.  Moses turned aside and heard God.  Yet even turning aside isn’t always enough.

When God called Moses his response was to the effect of “Who am I but a poor shepherd, uneducated in your ways and incapable of eloquent speech?”  With each excuse Moses was able to conjure up, God promised to do more than simply meet his needs.  Fast forwarding several thousand years, we may be quick to offer the same excuses when God calls us to ministry.  “Who am I that I should be of help?”  “I’m not qualified, send someone else.”  “In this instance I don’t believe I have what it takes.” I’m not up to the challenge…am I?”  Often at times we sound just like Moses, yet God still takes the time to bless us with the gift of the Holy Spirit and walk with us into the dark valley.  Our calling as followers of Christ Jesus is simply to go and let God be God.

The burning bushes are out there in our midst.  God continually calls his people to action using the most ordinary of means, but spotting those burning bushes takes patience and it takes practice.  If we are not listening for God, if we are not paying attention we might not recognize a burning bush when we see one.  As we go about our busy day, Christian folk need to be actively looking and listening for God.  We need to be tuned in to the burning bushes in our midst, always remembering that as we are called to ministry, God is with us and provides what is needed to do his will.

So again I ask the questions that I have considered these last few weeks.  When was the last time that you heard God speaking to you?  When was the last time you actually became still so you could listen?  And what was your response the last time you felt God tugging at your arm, inviting you to a place that you really hadn’t planned on going?

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The King’s Speech

Posted on February 2, 2011 by David Nuottila

Like many folks, I enjoy seeing a good movie every now and then.  Sadly, like many other folks, I don’t always take advantage of the opportunity to spend an enjoyable night out when it comes along.  But recently I recognized there was a break in my normal routine and so my wife and I decided to take in a movie.  First we had dinner than we went to the theater and saw The King’s Speech.  I must say that I had no idea what the movie would be like, but it garnered twelve academy award nominations so it must have had something going for it.

The King’s Speech is a film about King George VI and his sudden rise to the throne of England.  It was the advent of WWII and England needed to hear a clear and confident message of hope from her king.  Yet, even as he had the gifts and pedigree for the job, George VI lacked confidence due to his obvious speech impediment.  Realistically, I didn’t think I would enjoy a movie about a king who stammers, but to be honest, I enjoyed the movie very much.  I won’t ruin the story, but I will say that it gives one plenty to consider, especially when we are faced with the opportunity to speak confidently with someone who may be confused about matters of faith.

Not all Christians are ready and willing to step up and speak out about their faith.  Many lack confidence in either their knowledge of the Bible, strength of their voice or ability to articulate clearly what they believe and why.  Christians ought to be glad for the opportunity to speak of God’s grace, but we humans don’t always believe we can do it.  If this describes you, well, you’re not alone.  Moses, as great a prophet and leader that he was, also lacked confidence in his ability to speak for God.  In the fourth chapter of Exodus, Moses goes so far as to beg God to send someone else.  He admitted to being slow of speech and lacking in eloquence.  Yet God reminded him that it is God himself that gives speech to mortals.  God promised to fill Moses with the words and message of deliverance.  We all know how that story turned out.

Fast forward a few thousand years and not much has changed.  Humans still suffer under the weight of a fallen and broken world.  Many are lost and forgotten and countless more live well beyond the margins of society.  In the instances where people suffer and feel lost and forgotten, people need to hear a confident message of hope from their king.  God has something to say to those desiring to be delivered from sin and despair.  Whom shall he send?  Well, for starters, how about you?

To those whom God has called through baptism he gives the gift of the Holy Spirit.  The same Holy Spirit of God who gave speech to Moses, the disciples and the apostle Paul, also gives speech to Christians of all generations.  As it is with all our gifts and talents, we must learn to use them and be sure in our abilities.  Just as George VI had to work hard in overcoming a speech impediment, Christians must practice the art of speaking the faith.  Sunday worship, Bible study and fellowship gatherings are all opportunities for us to practice using our King’s speech.

Can you remember the last time someone asked you to speak about matters of faith?  If not it is only a matter of time.  God has something to say to a world that is hurting and wanting.  He has given this word to the church so that we may confidently and boldly share it with others.  Do you know what to say?  Do you know how to say it?  Are you confident in your ability?  Chances are you have some doubts.  Perhaps, but it is God’s word Christians are called to share, and God will not fail you.  If you need to gain confidence, gather with God’s people, listen and learn while deepening your faith.  Become comfortable speaking about your faith with the folks in your congregation, then go out into the world as ambassadors for Christ.  Soon you will realize that it is God who speaks through you, and you can take delight in using the King’s speech.

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What a friend we have in Jesus

Posted on January 26, 2011 by David Nuottila

I’m sure that we are all very familiar with the song “What a Friend we have in Jesus.”  It is a beautiful song that everyone, from the youngest child to the most senior adult loves to sing.  In my own humble opinion, we don’t sing this song nearly enough.  There is also an old saying that goes something like, “A friend of so-and-so’s is also a friend of mine.”  Taking these two things into consideration, I’d like to tell you about a friend of Jesus.

I only know this person as Robert.  Robert is a simple man, perhaps in his mid fifties.  He doesn’t seem to have a lot going for him and I would suppose he never did.  I don’t know Robert’s background, but if I had to guess I would say that he is a highly functioning autistic man.  I don’t know where he lives, who his family members are or even if he has any family.  The only thing I know about him is that he is a friend of Jesus, and so he is a friend of mine.

Robert stops by our church about three times each week, and especially on Sunday morning.  When he comes he only asks for one thing; Robert wants to pray the Our Father.  He isn’t particular whom he prays with, he doesn’t insist on seeing the pastor and is comfortable praying with any of God’s people.  He takes delight in praying with everyone and anyone, this is how I know he is a friend of Jesus.  Robert takes seriously Jesus’ promise that where two or more are gathered in his name, Jesus also is in their midst.

Robert stopped by last Sunday to say hello and to pray.  I hadn’t seen him in a while so it was good to lay eyes on him and to know he is alright.  The streets of our little part of God’s kingdom have been unseasonably cold, and I worry about folks like Robert.  He was bundled up wearing a hooded sweatshirt and a scarf around his neck.  Over his shoulder was his familiar old back pack.  When Robert showed up, I was on my way from our parish house to the church nave.  Our guest for the day, the assistant to our synodical bishop was with me.  In his quiet and unassuming way, Robert extended his hand and asked if we would pray with him. And so we prayed, Robert, the bishop’s representative and me, right there on the sidewalk.  At the Amen, Robert wished us a blessed day and with that was off to another adventure.

There is never a dull moment here in our little corner of God’s kingdom, and each day brings a new surprise.  Sometimes Jesus himself pops in for an unexpected visit, and sometimes our Lord’s friends stop by.  But what I love most about being called to this community is being able to look out my window onto the kingdom streets and seeing so many of God’s children at work or at play.  The best part is that at any given moment, one of Jesus’ friends will stop in and say hello.

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A word about friendship

Posted on January 24, 2011 by David Nuottila

Recently, I heard from someone whom I have not thought about for quite a while.  It has been years in fact, since the last time my friend and I have enjoyed conversation.  I’ve missed him and I’m glad to hear that he has missed me as well.  After all, we were friends.  Following our conversation, I was reminded of an exercise I have done with church men’s groups.  Gathered in small groups we would talk about our best friends.  As usual, most of the men chose a friend from high school, college or the military as their best friend. Then I asked them when was the last time they either spoke with or saw their “best friend?” Most hadn’t seen or heard from them in years.  The question then becomes, are these really our best friends?

Certainly there are those people in our collective past with whom we wish we had maintained contact over the years. I can think of several people who I have great memories of but have not stayed in touch with.  In this exercise it soon becomes evident that our concept of friendship is a little bit askew.  Friendship is not a noun that simply describes a relationship between people; rather, it is a verb that takes time and effort to be accomplished and accomplished well.  Quality friendships endure because the participants have a genuine interest in the life of the other, and care enough to remain a vital part of each other’s lives.

In Acts 20:36-38 we read, “When [Paul] had finished speaking, he knelt down with them all and prayed. There was much weeping among them all; they embraced Paul and kissed him, grieving especially because of what he had said, that they would not see him again…”

The apostle Paul most certainly formed friendships with those churches he visited throughout his journeys, and through his letters he remained a vital part of their lives.  Paul also strengthened his friendships through a daily diet of prayer for his friends in far off lands. Rooting his friendships in Christ, Paul provides an example of what friendship means.

The relationships we form with our Christian friends most often prove to be our best and longest lasting friendships.  We may lose touch from time to time, but through lasting memories, and quiet moments spent in prayer, we can remain a vital part of our friend’s lives, even as years and miles have separated us.   Lifting up cherished memories and giving God thanks for the good times are ways of recognizing past friendships.  It allows us to feel the joy of being a friend to someone whom we love, and reminds us that in Christ we are all one.

This week I pray for my friends, past and present.  I thank you for the memories of good times we once shared, for the times you supported me when I needed it, and for the privilege of being your friend in those instances when you needed me.  May God bless our friendships now and always.

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The Invisible Man

Posted on January 21, 2011 by David Nuottila

When I was a kid I used to think it would be great if I were able to become invisible.  If I had such power I could sneak around unnoticed, get into things my parents told me to leave alone and simply enjoy the freedom of doing what I want when I want.  As a child, invisibility intrigued me and the possibilities seemed endless.  These days I’m not so sure.

Certainly no one has the power to become invisible.  There are no cloaking devices such as the ones we see in science fiction movies and no super heroes with exceptional powers.  We are stuck in this world of visibility, out there for all to see whether we like it or not.  So we make the best of it.  Some wear nice clothes, others follow current trends or perhaps even take on a look all their own.  Through all of this the fact remains, at some time during life everyone wants to be noticed.

Yesterday as the sun finally broke through the clouds, I went for a walk along downtown streets.  It had been cloudy and gray for some time now, so the invitation of warm sunshine was welcome news.  The sidewalks were crowded with people taking their lunch outside, getting in some exercise or simply enjoying some fresh air in the park.  It was great.  People were talking to one another, trading hellos and greeting others with smiles as they passed by.  That is until they came upon the invisible man.

Joey is a homeless man who frequents the park across the street from the church I pastor.  He has few possessions, wears pretty much the same set of clothes most days and perches on the same park bench day in and day out.  People walk past Joey never even turning their heads.  Not that he really is invisible, folks just don’t want to pay too much attention, mostly out of fear I guess, fear that he may say something, asking for some spare change or some other “handout.”  Every city has its Joey, actually, more of them than we can count.

Joey and I have been, well, acquaintances for a couple of years now.  He really is a deep thinker and I enjoy conversation with him.  As I approached I took my usual place next to him on the bench and made small talk.  What’s up?  Where you been?  Nice weather we’re having.  I used all the clichés.  But as Joey responded, there was a difference in his tone.  Somehow Joey seemed annoyed that so many people pass him by each day, paying him little attention.  Precious few even bother to look his way.  “I’m the invisible man,” he said to me, “I sit here every day and no one sees me at all.”  Sadly, I couldn’t argue; that is until God tapped me on the shoulder.

“Hey Joe, you still got that Bible I gave you last year at Christmas?”

“Yep, read it every day.”

“Well, what’s Jesus have to say about you being invisible?”

Joey thought about it for a moment, then he brought up several stories where Jesus had compassion on the outcast from society; ten lepers, a woman bleeding for twelve years, and even a demoniac who lived in a graveyard.  Jesus cured all of these people and restored their relationship with their respective communities.  Then Joey asked, “Why doesn’t Jesus do the same for me?”  “He already has.” I said, “You just don’t see it.”

Nine months ago, Joey came to the church and was baptized.   We welcomed him into our family just as God welcomed him into the body of Christ.  Since that time, he has become a fixture within our congregation.  He won’t accept much in the way of assistance and though people have offered, Joey prefers to continue living as he does.  But as I often remind him, God has restored his relationship in the community of the faithful.  Yes, the worldly often pass him by without giving much notice, but God looks upon Joey, just as God looks upon all of his children with the compassion and love of Christ Jesus.  We are all visible in the eyes of God.  Even more, we are precious, cherished and loved.

There is a song that is played on contemporary Christian radio that says “[i]Open the eyes of my heart Lord.”  Perhaps this is a prayer that Christians everywhere should pray before we take to the city streets and wander among the invisible.  With the eyes of our hearts open to the needs of others, we become as Christ to them, having compassion and welcoming all into the community of faith.  As we do this, the God whom we cannot see becomes visible in the hearts and minds of others, and the good news of God’s salvation through Christ becomes a present day reality for all whom God places within our midst.

No one wants to be truly invisible, it goes against human nature.  We need love and human contact in order to live and to thrive.  Open the eyes of my heart Lord.  Help me to see the invisible so I can help them to see you and make your grace known to them.

[i] Open the eyes of My Heart Lord – Original lyrics by Mercy Me

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