History is a strange phenomenon. Depending on who you ask, one particular time in history may be viewed as better or worse depending on who it is you are talking to. This week, I realized that each week that passes is marked as 'HISTORY' with some weeks considered better, worse, etc. With the passing of this week, I once again realized that the worst of weeks seems to travel among different people on different schedules, the same as the best of weeks. I also realize that some are more resilient to the negative effects of the worst, while others are pushed to the edge questioning why me, I don't deserve this, what did I do wrong, etc?
Yesterday as I sat for quite a while waiting for my Easter hair cut, I had the chance to talk with an individual that has given up on God for now. Can't say that I blame him--his very young son is a patient at Children's Hospital with Down's Syndrome and congenital heart disease. I assured the guy that God hasn't gone anywhere and that it's quite alright to be angry--even with God. I gave him permission to scream and yell at God because God is big enough and understands enough the love of a parent, especially when something like this comes along.
Others too are having a bad week while others are having a great week. For you and me if we have faith in something beyond us, I truly believe that our history is written by our ability to let go and let God in the midst of whatever comes our way. There is joy in the midst of sorrow--ask anyone who has had that special person hold them and give them total non-judgmental permission to cry until there are no tears left. There is often laughter among the tears--just think about the stories that we tell whenever we have lost a loved one the smiles that help us through. There are new opportunities beyond the loss of a job--just talk with those who clearly say, I thought I'd never find the right fit, but I am so happy now (me as an example)!
You know--I also realized this week, that we have many opportunities to help write our history in some very good ways. Taking the time to listen--getting the proper rest and nutrition--surrounding ourselves around those who build up instead of dwelling on those who seek to tear down. How is your history working out this week? What can you do to help change history?
Friday, March 30, 2012
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Amazing day in the Lord
Well all,
I just want to thank God for one of the most amazing days in the life of DELC....
Worship today was well attended, everyone was working together for the greater good, new folks welcomed fully, youth sang wonderfully, and Jesus came to us in Word and Sacrament....doesn't get any better. Letting go and letting God is certainly a learning curve for all of us. Recognizing the intrinsic value of every human being is helpful when preaching grace and finding ways to build up and support those who are struggling and celebrating life is a blessing beyond blessing....
God in heaven, please continue to bless who we are and never let us forget whose we are!
It's all about you--God!
Peace and blessings for the best week ever....
Pr. Jaime
I just want to thank God for one of the most amazing days in the life of DELC....
Worship today was well attended, everyone was working together for the greater good, new folks welcomed fully, youth sang wonderfully, and Jesus came to us in Word and Sacrament....doesn't get any better. Letting go and letting God is certainly a learning curve for all of us. Recognizing the intrinsic value of every human being is helpful when preaching grace and finding ways to build up and support those who are struggling and celebrating life is a blessing beyond blessing....
God in heaven, please continue to bless who we are and never let us forget whose we are!
It's all about you--God!
Peace and blessings for the best week ever....
Pr. Jaime
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Property development updates...
Well, today was marked with meeting several prospective contractors who will be bidding on our new Family Life Center which is expected to be completed by Labor Day Weekend in September. It was exciting to see the positive feed back from many in attendance over our plans to create and newly renovated space designed for youth and family ministry.
The icing on the cake (if you will) is the possibility that our project could be featured in an architects magazine regarding the redefining of sacred spaces to meet the needs of ministry in the 21st Century...along with how best to integrate new into the space while respecting the old....
Hopefully the community will continue to see that our goals for ministry at DELC are done to ensure the very best for those who enter our doors, but to also provide for longevity and a future in a climate of church demise.
My comment to one of the contractors was simply "I know that this is a job that you are bidding on, like any other. But, if you get the job, you will be working for God--because what we do here is about God!"
Blessing for a great weekend!
The icing on the cake (if you will) is the possibility that our project could be featured in an architects magazine regarding the redefining of sacred spaces to meet the needs of ministry in the 21st Century...along with how best to integrate new into the space while respecting the old....
Hopefully the community will continue to see that our goals for ministry at DELC are done to ensure the very best for those who enter our doors, but to also provide for longevity and a future in a climate of church demise.
My comment to one of the contractors was simply "I know that this is a job that you are bidding on, like any other. But, if you get the job, you will be working for God--because what we do here is about God!"
Blessing for a great weekend!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
I think I'm tired...
Hi all,
Do you ever get tired? I'm pretty sure what I have isn't depression--cause I've gotten that tee shirt and pretty aware of the signs. I'm not sick--at least no one is telling me that I'm sick! So, I think I'm tired....I think I need a time of renewal and refreshment. It seems that with Spring busting into the song of colorful blooms, their time of rest has done them well. I'm wondering if I would blossom better for the kingdom of God if I took time to lie in a dormant state for a little while in order to experience a rapid boost of energy for the work I'm called to do.
I know that there are many decisions that are made that will please some and challenge others. I know that me trying to be creative and inspiring for weeks on end takes time and energy. So what am I afraid of? Am I afraid that if I take time to take a break, I will no longer be needed? If I walk away for a time of renewal, will God pull a fast one and challenge me more? What am I afraid of?
Easter is coming and then the end of Rebecca's semester, I'm thinking it's time to look at the possibilities of spending time with the family before the busyness of summer moves into full swing and we've missed another one together.
Any ideas?
I hope you find time to rest...
Pr. Jaime
Do you ever get tired? I'm pretty sure what I have isn't depression--cause I've gotten that tee shirt and pretty aware of the signs. I'm not sick--at least no one is telling me that I'm sick! So, I think I'm tired....I think I need a time of renewal and refreshment. It seems that with Spring busting into the song of colorful blooms, their time of rest has done them well. I'm wondering if I would blossom better for the kingdom of God if I took time to lie in a dormant state for a little while in order to experience a rapid boost of energy for the work I'm called to do.
I know that there are many decisions that are made that will please some and challenge others. I know that me trying to be creative and inspiring for weeks on end takes time and energy. So what am I afraid of? Am I afraid that if I take time to take a break, I will no longer be needed? If I walk away for a time of renewal, will God pull a fast one and challenge me more? What am I afraid of?
Easter is coming and then the end of Rebecca's semester, I'm thinking it's time to look at the possibilities of spending time with the family before the busyness of summer moves into full swing and we've missed another one together.
Any ideas?
I hope you find time to rest...
Pr. Jaime
Friday, March 16, 2012
Blessings found in the next generation!
As a pastor, I often find myself trying to help families struggle in the raising up of the next generation along with doing my best to journey along with the youth that are doing their best to become that next generation. It is not easy to be a parent, and it is not easy to grow into adulthood with all the expectations that are placed on our youth.
Oftentimes as a parent, we are so challenged by the big picture part of growing up that we set that aside and focus of things we really think we can control, like "clean your room," "take out the dog," "change your clothes," "take a shower," etc. all the while the youth are trying to figure out who they are in the world, what they want to become when they grow up, should they do the drugs that are offered, have sex with someone so they will love them, etc.
In an ideal world, your children and your home would be picture perfect and your teen would do everything that is expected. In reality, we as parents (not an easy learn for me) is to choose our battles wisely. Just as your child does not know everything that is going on in your life as a parent, you should not believe that you know exactly what your child is going through either.
Listening is key to allowing your youth the freedom to speak...your willingness to accept and love your child in spite of a messed up room or other infraction of the perfect world is vital to a good relationship with your teen. No battle on the home front should ever get to the point that you do not say the words "I love you!" In listening to stories of families gone awry, often the overarching theme is that the next generation questioned whether they were love and more importantly if they were wanted.
Please take the time to LOVE your family to the fullest this day--doesn't mean you let 'em walk all over you. Sometimes to love is to say NO.
As a parent, I thank God every day for the daughter that was given to us as a family. She has learned how to live, love, and thrive in a very complex and challenging world.
Blessings to all
Pr. Jaime
Oftentimes as a parent, we are so challenged by the big picture part of growing up that we set that aside and focus of things we really think we can control, like "clean your room," "take out the dog," "change your clothes," "take a shower," etc. all the while the youth are trying to figure out who they are in the world, what they want to become when they grow up, should they do the drugs that are offered, have sex with someone so they will love them, etc.
In an ideal world, your children and your home would be picture perfect and your teen would do everything that is expected. In reality, we as parents (not an easy learn for me) is to choose our battles wisely. Just as your child does not know everything that is going on in your life as a parent, you should not believe that you know exactly what your child is going through either.
Listening is key to allowing your youth the freedom to speak...your willingness to accept and love your child in spite of a messed up room or other infraction of the perfect world is vital to a good relationship with your teen. No battle on the home front should ever get to the point that you do not say the words "I love you!" In listening to stories of families gone awry, often the overarching theme is that the next generation questioned whether they were love and more importantly if they were wanted.
Please take the time to LOVE your family to the fullest this day--doesn't mean you let 'em walk all over you. Sometimes to love is to say NO.
As a parent, I thank God every day for the daughter that was given to us as a family. She has learned how to live, love, and thrive in a very complex and challenging world.
Blessings to all
Pr. Jaime
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Today we can really begin to feel that Spring is quickly making its way into our lives. The birds are making joyous song and the ground is pushing the first blooms of spring into full color. Some of you will be able to fully enjoy this day while others are struggling. The darkness of your moment casts a shadow of all the light that is dancing around you.
Jesus' purpose in coming was to bring light into darkness. It is my sincere prayer that you will be so surrounded by the light of Christ that the darkness will be but a memory.
Blessings to you always!
Jesus' purpose in coming was to bring light into darkness. It is my sincere prayer that you will be so surrounded by the light of Christ that the darkness will be but a memory.
Blessings to you always!
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Blessings all!
Well, I haven't been around for a couple days--quite literally.
With Rebecca home for Spring Break--we left town for a day and half in the metro DC area.
Great to visit with clergy friend and spouse and great to spend an absolutely beautiful day moving from the changing of the guard at Arlington, many museums and memorials, great food and back safely to the hills of Pennsylvania.
While I've been to DC on many occasions, the new things for me were of course the MLK memorial that is an amazing statue rising from the stones, carved in amazing detail. The simplicity of Ted Kennedy's grave much the same as Bobby Ks. and the overwhelming number of Vietnam tourist walking reverently through the Vietnam Memorial.
As a person of faith, I had an amazing conversation with someone that is trying to figure out what God means to them. As I was told, "I just don't want to get it wrong!"
For me--I am so thankful that I can get it so wrong and God still graciously holds me in the fold.
If you have ever wondered if you have gotten it wrong, pray, ponder, and then accept the wonderful gift that comes to us through Jesus--no regrets on my end!
Peace
Well, I haven't been around for a couple days--quite literally.
With Rebecca home for Spring Break--we left town for a day and half in the metro DC area.
Great to visit with clergy friend and spouse and great to spend an absolutely beautiful day moving from the changing of the guard at Arlington, many museums and memorials, great food and back safely to the hills of Pennsylvania.
While I've been to DC on many occasions, the new things for me were of course the MLK memorial that is an amazing statue rising from the stones, carved in amazing detail. The simplicity of Ted Kennedy's grave much the same as Bobby Ks. and the overwhelming number of Vietnam tourist walking reverently through the Vietnam Memorial.
As a person of faith, I had an amazing conversation with someone that is trying to figure out what God means to them. As I was told, "I just don't want to get it wrong!"
For me--I am so thankful that I can get it so wrong and God still graciously holds me in the fold.
If you have ever wondered if you have gotten it wrong, pray, ponder, and then accept the wonderful gift that comes to us through Jesus--no regrets on my end!
Peace
Saturday, March 10, 2012
It's late Saturday the 10th....clocks have been pushed forward....I wonder whoever came up with this idea thought of the implications of a choice that leads to making a pastor that has already put in a full week who now must get up an hour earlier and still be able to communicate the Gospel in a way that speaks to God's people?
Well, I dare say I'm already tired and so I'm going to keep this simple....Lord....tomorrow is your day....I hope you have something inspiring to say....because right now, I'm going to bed!
Love the Lord with all your heart!
Well, I dare say I'm already tired and so I'm going to keep this simple....Lord....tomorrow is your day....I hope you have something inspiring to say....because right now, I'm going to bed!
Love the Lord with all your heart!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
A member family's daughter is standing in line at a local grocery store checking out while an older gentleman is struggling to come up with enough money to pay for his groceries. After observing the man trying to figure out what to put back, the daughter made her way up the line and paid the balance. The man said he couldn't take the help--she assured him it was alright. "There are still good people in the world!"
A woman struggles with all the loss after the Tornadoes in the mid West. Everything she owned is gone. Standing around the volunteers and all the supplies being brought in to help. "There is still good in the world."
We often find ourselves questioning whether or not there is still good or good people in the world. The political climate has people frustrated, but worse from my perspective is the choice many make in degrading other human beings because they do not agree with another person's view point. Some want their neighborhoods to stay the same, others want a family life that could just get along. No matter what is going on in our lives, it is important to remember that:
1) God is still the God of creation who loves what has been created.
2) There are still good people in the world affecting change where and when they are able.
3) As a Christian living in the 21st Century, we must continue to set the example of love that comes to us from Jesus. His Words and example of love most surely will change the world with lasting impact--you can even say--eternal impact.
Blessings this day!
Pr. Jaime
A woman struggles with all the loss after the Tornadoes in the mid West. Everything she owned is gone. Standing around the volunteers and all the supplies being brought in to help. "There is still good in the world."
We often find ourselves questioning whether or not there is still good or good people in the world. The political climate has people frustrated, but worse from my perspective is the choice many make in degrading other human beings because they do not agree with another person's view point. Some want their neighborhoods to stay the same, others want a family life that could just get along. No matter what is going on in our lives, it is important to remember that:
1) God is still the God of creation who loves what has been created.
2) There are still good people in the world affecting change where and when they are able.
3) As a Christian living in the 21st Century, we must continue to set the example of love that comes to us from Jesus. His Words and example of love most surely will change the world with lasting impact--you can even say--eternal impact.
Blessings this day!
Pr. Jaime
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Information and registration for Confirmation Camp at Camp Sequanota June 17 to 22, 2012 will be available for pick up at the Welcome Center this Sunday.
Check out Camp Sequanota at www.sequanota.com
Please do not register on line. Registrations can be given to Pr. Jaime, Karen Olson or to the church office. No money is due at this time. The church pays half.
Thanks
Pr. Jaime
Check out Camp Sequanota at www.sequanota.com
Please do not register on line. Registrations can be given to Pr. Jaime, Karen Olson or to the church office. No money is due at this time. The church pays half.
Thanks
Pr. Jaime
Someone is checking out the blog
Well, Good Morning
Thus far, 32 people have viewed the blog.
I'm sure I am among the number as I was checking out to see if I managed to post ok.
However, blogging seems to be pretty straight forward and I'm pretty sure that if Jesus was among us today (in human form,) he would use every opportunity and venue to get the WORD out.
In Matthew 28:20, Jesus says "I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Jesus' love you this day is a love that is with you even if today is the most challenging day of your life. Jesus is with you when you have been hurt by other. Jesus is with you in your losses. Jesus is with you in your diagnosis. Jesus is with you in your joy and celebration. Jesus with with you when you fall in love.
Today, Jesus will be with you. I know there are times we want Jesus to give us the answer or results that we want or expect. Oh how many times I have wanted what I want. What I have learned over time is that NO, Jesus doesn't want us to be hurt or to experience bad things, but Jesus will journey with us and if we are open to the help, he will surround us with the right people to make a new beginning, new relationship, more joys, etc. to be realized. Jesus never gives up on us! Jesus will never leave us alone in the journey.
May God richly bless you with his presence this day and always!
Pr. Jaime
Thus far, 32 people have viewed the blog.
I'm sure I am among the number as I was checking out to see if I managed to post ok.
However, blogging seems to be pretty straight forward and I'm pretty sure that if Jesus was among us today (in human form,) he would use every opportunity and venue to get the WORD out.
In Matthew 28:20, Jesus says "I am with you always, even to the end of the age."
Jesus' love you this day is a love that is with you even if today is the most challenging day of your life. Jesus is with you when you have been hurt by other. Jesus is with you in your losses. Jesus is with you in your diagnosis. Jesus is with you in your joy and celebration. Jesus with with you when you fall in love.
Today, Jesus will be with you. I know there are times we want Jesus to give us the answer or results that we want or expect. Oh how many times I have wanted what I want. What I have learned over time is that NO, Jesus doesn't want us to be hurt or to experience bad things, but Jesus will journey with us and if we are open to the help, he will surround us with the right people to make a new beginning, new relationship, more joys, etc. to be realized. Jesus never gives up on us! Jesus will never leave us alone in the journey.
May God richly bless you with his presence this day and always!
Pr. Jaime
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Upcoming Events:
Saturday, March 10 at 6:30 PM--Adult Game Night--Church Social Hall
Sunday, March 11--Worship at 8 AM, 9:15 AM and 10:30 AM
Tuesday, March 13--Lenten Dinner at 6 PM in the social hall, Study at 7 PM in the chapel
Looking ahead:
Saturday, March 24 at 9 AM--Carpenter and Son's Work Day. Bring pliers, side cutters and other tools to remove staples and nails out or joists to prep for staining--New Family Life Center.
Saturday, March 10 at 6:30 PM--Adult Game Night--Church Social Hall
Sunday, March 11--Worship at 8 AM, 9:15 AM and 10:30 AM
Tuesday, March 13--Lenten Dinner at 6 PM in the social hall, Study at 7 PM in the chapel
Looking ahead:
Saturday, March 24 at 9 AM--Carpenter and Son's Work Day. Bring pliers, side cutters and other tools to remove staples and nails out or joists to prep for staining--New Family Life Center.
A new way to share the Gospel!
Today, we have moved into blogging. Up to date information will shared as it becomes available regarding the life and happenings of Evangelical Lutheran, Duncansville. Prayer requests, building updates, worship schedule reminders, etc. are just some of the ways blogging will help continue to keep you informed.
I am just in the process of setting our blog site up, so please be patient. If I understand blogging correctly, you will be able to join our blog site which will send you email updates of blog postings.
Peace and blessings in all you do!
Pr. Jaime
I am just in the process of setting our blog site up, so please be patient. If I understand blogging correctly, you will be able to join our blog site which will send you email updates of blog postings.
Peace and blessings in all you do!
Pr. Jaime
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