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Sign, sign, everywhere a sign
Blockin’ out the scenery, breakin’ my mind
Do this, don’t do that, can’t you read the sign?
In 1971, these were the lines from the Five Man Electric Man’s song “Signs.” As a young teenager, these words spoke to me. As an adult, they still have a ring to them. These words touch a cord in me and my scattered mind. What am I to be doing with my life? What direction am I to take? Is this the place where I should be? These may just be the questions of a mad man or a disciple trying to find his way in the world serving his Lord and Savior. But from what I see, there are a lot of directions to take in life and following the right course can be tricky.
Up until recently, I did think that I had lost my mind, particularly when it comes to theology and studying God’s word. When I was in seminary in the early 80s, there were a handful of evangelists who filled the airways. The schools of theology were mostly directed by mainline denominations. Certain theologians were viewed as dependable in their interpretation of the Bible. If denominations had differences, we respectively understood the reasoning each group took to get to their destinations. So, while there was not one vanilla favor that tasted good to all, at least, there was an understanding and a reasonable respect for how we each ended up where we were.
Now, I just read a chapter from a book, Theology of the Old Testament, by Walter Brueggemann, who is about as solid a character when it comes to theology as you can get. I learned that in this post-modern age, as it is called, that I may not be going insane…yet. Dr. Brueggemann shows how the numerous interpretations of the Word have exploded in my life time alone. The scriptures are seen through many lenses today. The Bibles at the local book store reflect this change. There are Bibles for youth, women, men and support groups. You can get an NRSV, RSV, English Bible, NIV, King James, Living Bible, The Message, NEB, and the list goes on forever. Which leaves me with the question, where do I turn to?
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Lent is a beautiful season for me. But I do Lent differently than most. I have done it the same way for years except for a few occasions when I thought I was not doing it “right.” So maybe the question I would like to pose is, “What is the ‘right’ way to observe Lent?”
I read an article about Lent today by Pastor Terri Stagner-Collier, who used to be the associate pastor here. She discussed the ways people observe Lent. She pointed out that some people take on certain disciplines during Lent and are quite proud of themselves when they adhere to them but forget they have others that did not give attention to or simply failed at. Nevertheless, these people feel somewhat smug about their achievement or at the least are glad they are not like “other people.” On the other hand, others find the disciplines of fasting, praying, or giving of themselves so hard that they simply don’t care about participating or growing in their understanding of the faith. Then she asks her congregation where did they find themselves in this range of options.
I was on Facebook and noticed all the posts of what people were giving up. One person noted how much they would miss their chocolate. About that time I began to weird out. I knew that I was different. But the different that I have become is something that I have come to claim and literally relish.
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According to the Roman calendar, it is the beginning of the New Year. It is a time of the year when people resolve to live their lives differently. People reassess what they are doing with their time and gifts. Given that, I would like to suggest some thoughts as you begin to live life anew.
Your desire to do an inventory of your life is admirable. It takes courage. But, if I might add, it is much easier to do it if you claim the grace given to us in Jesus Christ. In your baptism, you are promised that you become a child of God. Thus, you are in relationship with God. Our God is unlike any other God. He is the incarnate God. Born a human, yet divine. He knows our pains and joys, lows and highs, desires and regrets. He walks with us and desires to help us live an abundant and obedient life. Therefore, we never act alone. In everything, we are connected to God.
Now, what did you have in mind for the New Year? Whatever it is, God has you in his mind. In fact, he may have some thoughts about the direction of your life also. As part of God’s kingdom, you are part of a greater plan. Having a conversation with God may be a good start in planning the New Year. Your prayer might begin with asking God where he needs you. And while his direction for your life may not immediately come to mind, at least, you will be mindful of your relationship with him. Watch, wait, and listen! God will lead you.
And as you wait, what else did you have in mind? Losing weight, working less, being more efficient, reestablishing a relationship are some possibilities. What was your idea? Where does God come into this picture? Is God in the picture? Imagine living life without him. Now, imagine living life with him. God working alongside you is very comforting. God helping you to be a better person is reassuring. Knowing that God will still love you even if you fail is grace filled. So grace filled, you need not worry if you fail.
I knew a guy once who took 10 years to stop drinking. He made lots of resolutions. Finally, it happened. I encourage you to think about your life. But I strongly encourage you not to walk alone. Walk with God and His people.
As we begin the season of Epiphany, Jesus was baptized by John in the River Jordan. According to Mark, the heavens were torn open and the spirit entered Jesus and God the Father announced that he was his beloved son. Then the Holy Spirit drove him into the wilderness where there were wild beasts. Jesus did not go alone.
As you enter the New Year, you do not go alone. You do not go where you always want to. You are led. Wherever you go and whatever you do, you do so with God. That is not a threat. That is a word of grace. God be with you!
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