Tears at the bar

Sometimes it's weird how theory meets reality.

Last night at small groups we talked about "Issues for Girls." Our conversation centered around some of the struggles and weaknesses that girls face in dating and relationships. One of the points we discussed was that sometimes girls will think things like, "If I don't do what he wants to do then he might leave me." I have seen many girls compromise their morals or remain in a relationship they really didn't want to be in because of thoughts like this.

What's funny is that as I talk about some of this stuff (as I have been over the last several weeks on Sunday nights), I generally get one of two reactions. One is, "Whatever, Jason." This one is usually followed by anger, smart remarks, or general disdain. The other reaction I often get is this "deer in the headlights" look from students who have not been there yet. Occassionally (and usually from a student who has more experience in this area than she wishes), I hear that what I am saying makes sense. In a few cases I might even hear, "You're right."

Anyway, after last night's session, I stopped at Chili's to grab a salad for Michelle and I to share. (Side note: Have you ever noticed how much cheaper it is to eat when you are trying to lose weight? We spent less at Chili's last night than I usually spend at McDonalds.)

So after I ordered my food, I went to the bar to watch the Piston's game while I waited. Two seats down was a girl who I am guessing was in her late 20's or early 30's. Somehow we got into a conversation about the Piston's game. She was friendly and smiling. We didn't share many words, but her overall countenance was positive. I noticed the drink at the spot between my seat and hers, so figured she was there with someone.

After we both went back to watching the game, the bartender, another woman who was obviously her friend, began talking to her. I wasn't eavsdropping, but I was sitting close enough that I happened to hear a few words that they shared. It seemed like they were talking about a guy that one of them was dating.

Less than a minute after their brief dialogue, a guy comes and sits down in the chair between the girl and me. Suddenly, her whole appearance seemed to change. The smile that she had on her face had gone away. The guy, whose back was to me, must have been giving her some kind of look. The bartender friend walked up at that point and tried to make a joke to break the apparent tension between these two.

I was still waiting for my food, wondering why it seemed to be taking so long.

I kept watching the game, but occassionally glanced at the young woman, since I had to look over her to see the TV. It was a minute later that I saw her wiping small tears from her eyes and the guy she was with appeared to be staring blankly at the same TV I was.

Then everything I had talked about earlier started coming back to mind. What feeling caused this girl to stay in this relationship? What lie might be keeping her from leaving this guy? Was she being abused? Was she selling herself short? Was she willing to settle?

I have to be honest. My pastoral side kicked in about this time and I just wanted to ask if everything was OK. But I knew this was not the time or place for something like that.

It was just a minute later that my food was ready and I left the restaurant. I looked back one last time and watched the woman wipe another tear away from her eye.

Then I wondered...what teenager that I had spoken to earlier that night will be sitting somewhere on some night in the future with someone less than she deserves or that treats her like less than she is?

shine!
Jason

The clothing makes the man?

This past week we were blessed by the presence of over 30 guests from South Oakland Shelter. SOS is a ministry that helps people who are at a challenging place in life. These are people just like you and me who have lost their job, their homes, and sometimes even their families.

As I reflect on this week and some of the great people I met, I think about the words of James:

My dear brothers and sisters, how can you claim to have faith in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ if you favor some people over others?

For example, suppose someone comes into your meeting dressed in fancy clothes and expensive jewelry, and another comes in who is poor and dressed in dirty clothes. If you give special attention and a good seat to the rich person, but you say to the poor one, “You can stand over there, or else sit on the floor”—well, doesn't this discrimination show that your judgments are guided by evil motives?

Listen to me, dear brothers and sisters. Hasn't God chosen the poor in this world to be rich in faith? Aren't they the ones who will inherit the Kingdom he promised to those who love him? But you dishonor the poor! Isn't it the rich who oppress you and drag you into court? Aren't they the ones who slander Jesus Christ, whose noble name you bear?

Yes indeed, it is good when you obey the royal law as found in the Scriptures: “Love your neighbor as yourself.” But if you favor some people over others, you are committing a sin. You are guilty of breaking the law. (James 2:1-9)

How often do we judge people based on their appearance? Do you ever find yourself treating someone different (or at least thinking differently about them) because of their clothing or the car they drive?

As I look back at the life of Jesus, He spent time with the people no one else would. Rich or poor, they were worthy of His time. If we are trying to follow Jesus, shouldn't we strive to be the same?

shine!
Jason

The obstacle course

Last night, while Michelle was at a meeting, Matthew and I traveled to a nearby park.

We spent a significant amount of time at the swings, where Matthew made friends with a young adult who was on a swing as well. It helped that she worked at Tim Horton's (the home of one of Matthew's favorite treats - TIMBITS!).

However, the other highlight of the park was the obstacle course that Matthew created. It went kind of like this: You start by sliding down a slide in one of the jungle gyms. From there you run to one of those spring riding animals (you have to go back and forth ten times). Then you get on the spring riding animal next to that and go back and forth nine times. After that, you run to a nearby picnic table (which you circle around), then run to another jungle gym, where you slide down another slide. Finally, you end up back at the original jungle gym and go down the slide where you started.

Whew! I got tired just typing that.

Anyway, after running the course, Matthew tells me he is tired. (I'm not sure I would have even finished.) Then he proceeds to tell me that when he gets bigger, the obstacle course will get bigger, and when he is 16 it will be a really big course.

I wonder how many of us spiritually are still running the same basic course we ran when we started our adventure of following Jesus?

In school, work always got harder as we got older. Second grade is harder than first grade. Third grade is harder than second grade.

In sports, it gets harder the higher you go. High school football is more work than middle school. College football is more work than high school.

But for some reason, it seems like many Christians never strive for that next level. We settle for the basics that we started with early in our journey. How often have you heard of a Christian talking about moving from Bible reading, to in-depth Bible study, to Lectio Divina?

Granted, some people don't talk much about their spiritual routine. But why is that? Sure, we don't want to brag. But at the same time, shouldn't we share the ways that God is calling us to new levels of spiritual growth?

I must admit, this has been a struggle for me since I became a follower of Jesus in my mid-20's. It was not something I grew up around. And to be honest, it's not something I have seen modeled or taught by many Christians I have been around.

My challenge to you - and to me - is to find a way to grow beyond your current practices for spiritual development. If you need help, there are a number of books out there. One I have some experience with is Celebration of Discipline: The Path to Spiritual Growth by Richard Foster. I have also heard good things about The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives by Dallas Willard.

If you see me on a regular basis, keep me accountable. My goal is to add at least one spiritual discipline to my routine this summer. If I am completely honest, I struggle with engaging in any kind of discipline on a daily regular basis. I don't always make the time for it and I often let it slide when life gets busy. But isn't the point of spiritual disciplines to create a quiet place in the midst of a crazy life? That is what I desperately need. And if we are all honest, it's something we all could use more of.

shine!
Jason

Reborn Identity

This past weekend, 8 students, my family, and I traveled to Beamsville, Ontario to attend the 2008 Great Lakes Youth Rally. It was a great weekend where I saw old friends and made new ones.

We left Friday morning and headed to Port Huron, where we would cross the border into Canada. Crossing the border into Canada was pretty easy. The lady at the border didn't ask to see any papers or anything. Maybe it was the van full of teens and all the subsequent paperwork that scared her off.

Before heading to Beamsville, we decided to head over to Niagara Falls. Most of the students had never been there before. It was amazing to be reminded of God's power as we watched millions of gallons of water flow over the Falls. God created some pretty cool stuff.

While we were at the Falls, we ran into the guys from Watershed. It was really random, but it was pretty cool at the same time.

Then we arrived at Great Lakes Christian College (which is actually a high school). The people there were amazingly friendly and welcoming. From the minute we walked in the door, I felt like I was among friends.

The entire weekend was a great experience. It was great to worship with Watershed. I felt honored to be a part of their last weekend together for a while. I know it was an emotional time for Chris, Vicki, and the other guys in the group.

Our teenagers had a great time making new friends, growing closer to one another, and experiencing God. On Sunday morning during our worship time, Luke Jenema had a chance to share a little of his experience with Mission: Cincinnati. It is always encouraging to hear how God is working in the lives of students. 

One of the most amazing parts of the weekend were two guys that I was able to meet. Ryan was born with a hole in his heart. We sat and talked for quite a while on Saturday afternoon about his life and what he had been through. According to the doctors, Ryan shouldn't even still be alive.

Then there was Joey. Joey was attending Great Lakes until he was diagnosed with cancer. As I sat talking with this teenager, I was amazed by his faith and his attitude. He shared with me that he had been in the hospital on Wednesday (two days before the youth rally), but how glad he was that he was able to come for the weekend. I was humbled by the faith of this 17-year-old. Although he has been through chemo and a host of other medical procedures, Joey continues to live life to the fullest.

The theme for the weekend was "Reborn Identity." It was a time to be reminded of our purpose and our identity. God created us for more than just going to church; He created us to be the church. My prayer is that each of us can find our place in the world to serve others and bring the love of God into this world.

shine!
Jason

Baptism as change

Wednesday night at 180 Connections, we talked about baptism as change. We explored the idea that in baptism we are declaring to God and the world that we are refocusing our life.

I want to challenge you to consider your focus. If you have been baptized, have you reoriented your life to pursue a path of following Jesus? Do your decisions and actions reflect the fruit of the Spirit?

If not, think about what you can do to set your aim in the right direction. In the words of the apostle Paul, "Since you have been raised to new life with Christ, set your sights on the realities of heaven, where Christ sits in the place of honor at God’s right hand. Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world, you will share in all his glory." (Colossians 3:1-4)

If you have not been baptized, would you like to join God’s dream for this world? Would you like to have a life of purpose that seeks to make a difference? Then God calls you into a passionate, cross-centered relationship with Him.

As our students take a deeper look at baptism in the weeks ahead, my prayer is that they will discover—or rediscover—that baptism is more than a tradition or ritual. It is an integral part of our faith walk which reflects the character, nature, and kingdom of God.

shine!
Jason

The Uniqueness of Religious Doctrines

This is the final short paper for my Philosophy of Religion class. This has been a great experience and I have learned so much. In this essay, I am considering Paul J. Griffiths' thoughts on the uniqueness of religious doctrines.

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Griffiths answers those who subscribe to the pluralistic view of religions. His main point, and the focus of his essay, is that many religions include a number of particularist and exclusivist doctrines which contradict the pluralist view. Griffiths argues that there are five important dimensions of religious doctrine. While they overlap, each has its own unique contribution to doctrine. Griffiths uses Christianity – specifically the Anglican variety – as well as Buddhism as his primary examples.

The first dimension addressed is Religious Doctrines as Community Rules. Religious doctrines function as rules which outline the conduct of the members of the religious community who subscribe to a particular faith. Griffiths states: "This dimension of religious doctrines is perhaps the most basic of all; from it the others flow." (p. 590) While all five dimensions have areas where they overlap, this first dimension significantly impacts the other dimensions more than any other. It is the central dimension of all five.

Next, Griffiths discusses Religious Doctrines as Definitions of Community Boundaries. Religious doctrines are central to dictating the boundaries for behavior and belief. Often these boundaries are created to exclude things from the community which are considered untrue, inadequate, or misleading. They are the barriers that protect the community from unwelcome behaviors and beliefs. For the Christian, these can include topics such as the understanding of the person and work of Jesus Christ or the Trinity.

The third dimension, Religious Doctrines and the Spiritual Experience of Communities, entails the spiritual experiences that shape the doctrines of and are formed from the doctrines of a religious community. One way Griffiths illustrates this dimension is by discussing how the prayer practices of Christians have both shaped and been shaped by doctrines about the Virgin Mary. Spiritual experience can have a significant impact on what a community believes.

The fourth dimension is Religious Doctrines – Catechesis and Evangelism. These two areas of this dimension focus on making members of religious communities. Catechesis is the process of teaching and training with regards to the doctrinal and practical aspects of the religion. This can include elements of creeds, liturgies, religious practices, and more. The ultimate goal of catechesis is the formation of a faithful Christian or adherent to whatever religion is involved.

Evangelism is the process which converts a person to a particular religion. For those who were not raised in a certain spiritual community, this is the process which recruits new members to that community. When evangelism is successful, new members begin the process of catechesis. Doctrine is generally central to both aspects of this dimension.

The final dimension Griffiths discusses is Religious Doctrines and Salvation. While it may look significantly different for various religious communities, almost every community of faith addresses the subject of salvation in some form. This dimension is one that is especially troublesome for pluralism because doctrines – especially those involving salvation – often cannot be abandoned by a religious community which takes its beliefs seriously. Since many religious groups have a specific doctrine of salvation, they cannot ignore that belief and accept the pluralistic view.

While most religions share these five dimensions, Griffiths does go on to address the uniqueness of Christian doctrine. Christianity is unique because, in the words of Griffiths, "a strong and interesting doctrinal claim is being made here, a claim as to the singularly and salvific centrality of a particular historic event." Christianity makes a unique claim which cannot logically co-exist with any other doctrine of salvation. It teaches that salvation is found in the person of Jesus Christ and through his death, burial, and resurrection. This specific of a salvific doctrine is unique to Christianity.

If we are going to have serious dialogue with other religious groups, the unique nature of Christianity must be a part of the discussion. If we ignore the uniqueness of our faith, then our discussions with other religious communities will be hollow and of significantly less value.

Not only do I affirm Griffiths' position, I feel that his position makes the pluralist position logically impossible. Unless one is willing to discount Christianity as a false religion, she cannot be a pluralist and remain consistent. Either Christianity is a false proposition, or pluralism is a false position. One cannot advocate a philosophy that accepts all religions when at least one of those religious communities accepts an exclusive salvific event.

Religious doctrines are indeed unique as outlined by Griffiths in his essay. While many religions will share some similarities which produce common ground for dialogue, we must acknowledge that many religions, especially the Christian faith, include doctrines which nullify the possibility of pluralism and make a claim for exclusivity.

Unfortunately, some who disagree with pluralism will swing to the other extreme and take exclusivity to the point of arrogance and judgmentalism. We must always approach inter-religious dialogue with a sense of humility balanced with a firm belief in our position. This requires us to be diligent students of our beliefs as well as those with whom we disagree. If we want others to honestly listen to our position, we must be willing to accord them the same attitude of openness. We can listen with an open mind without sacrificing our position or affirming their views as ones to which we subscribe.

One last issue Churches of Christ must consider in the pluralism/exclusivism debate is our exclusivity as a religious community. This is not unique to our tribe, but we have been well known in the Christian community for our claims of exclusivity. While we have our unique doctrines that shape our community as Griffiths discussed, we must be careful not to draw firm lines and distinctions where God has not. If we have a healthy attitude that acknowledges traditions as traditions rather than salvific issues, we can respect our heritage while maintaining healthy dialogue with the rest of the Christian community. We must always be willing to examine every aspect of our doctrine and heritage against the Word of God. While God’s nature will never change, our understanding can and will change as our approach to Scripture and the culture we live in continues to change around us.

Reflections on the death of a parent

It was nine years ago today. There are those pivotal moments in your life that you never forget. Weddings. Births. Deaths.

April 16, 1999, was the day of the phone call that would reverberate through the rest of my life. My dad had called earlier in the evening and I could hear it in his voice. Something bad had happened. I returned the call expecting to hear that my aunt who had been sick for some time had passed away.

Instead, I heard the words that I will never forget. "Your mom has gone to be with God."

A host of emotions rushed through me at that moment. Disbelief. Anger. Sadness. I just started saying, "No...no....no."

Instantly my world had been turned upside down. The woman who brought me into the world was gone.

The next couple of hours were filled with crying, packing, and dealing with a feeling of numbness. I didn't want to believe it was true.

Michelle and I were in Arkansas at the time, so we had to arrange plane tickets to fly back to Ohio. It was already after 10:00pm by the time we found out about my mom, but within minutes friends of ours were at our home. One couple even spent the entire night with us and helped us get to the airport.

Then there was the plane flight home the next morning. It was during that time that God began to speak grace and mercy into this moment of grief. There was one passage that I continued to read over and over. Paul's words began to bring a sense of peace.

All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. God is our merciful Father and the source of all comfort. He comforts us in all our troubles so that we can comfort others. When they are troubled, we will be able to give them the same comfort God has given us. For the more we suffer for Christ, the more God will shower us with his comfort through Christ. Even when we are weighed down with troubles, it is for your comfort and salvation! For when we ourselves are comforted, we will certainly comfort you. Then you can patiently endure the same things we suffer. We are confident that as you share in our sufferings, you will also share in the comfort God gives us. (2 Corinthians 1:3-7)

In the days, weeks, and even years following, this verse continued to bring healing to a wound that may heal but will always leave a scar.

I still remember arriving in Ohio and the long drive from the airport to my house. I remember walking in the door and seeing my dad for the first time.

One of the strongest memories of coming home was the walk down to where my mom died. Her fatal car accident occurred less than half a mile from the home where I grew up and my dad still lives. After spending a little time with family, I walked out the door to walk down to the place where my mom took her last breath.

It was a short walk that seemed to last forever. But eventually I arrived at the intersection and knelt down and had a heart-to-heart with God. I asked those questions we all ask in times like this. Why, God? Why my mom? Why now?

It was in the midst of mourning the loss of my mother that our nation suffered a tragedy of its own. On Tuesday, April 20, 1999, the day of my mom's visitation, two teenage boys committed the Columbine massacre. While I was dealing with my own grief, I was reminded that we live in world where death is inevitable and sometimes tragic.

One of the bright lights in the midst of the darkness was realizing what kind of impact my mom had made on those around her. I remember my mom as a fairly reserved person who was usually either at work or at home. But that day I was overwhelmed by the number of people who came and shared how my mom had touched them. It was such an inspiration and I was reminded that you don't have to be loud or the center of attention to make a difference.

Then there was the funeral. Somehow I was able to read the brief poem I had written for my mom in the days between her death and the funeral. As I look back it all seems so clear, but at the same time it was a blur. I remember a quiet moment where I was alone standing over my mom's casket. I recall sitting down next to my cousin - who considered my mom his second mother - and comforting him in his grief.

I realized we all deal with grief in our own unique way. At times I would mourn. At other times I would switch into comforter mode. There were other times I just sat and tried to absorb what was going on around me. Even days after my life was forever changed, I was still looking for a sense of normalcy.

In the days and weeks following my mom's death and funeral, I can't count the number of times I wanted to pick up the phone and call my mom. When I would experience milestones, I would remember my mom was gone.

Several months after I lost my mom, I graduated from Harding. It was on that day, July 31, 1999, that Michelle's mom lost her battle with cancer. Of course, this day resurfaced my pain. Together, Michelle and I once again dealt with the lost of a mom. Within a few months, we had both lost the most important woman in our lives. It was a time that stretched our trust in God and reaffirmed His love for us and our love for each other.

It was less than a year and a half later, Matthew came into the world. Again, we were reminded of the hole in our families. I wished that my mom was there to share in this special moment. As a new life began, I was reminded of a life that ended too soon.

In the years since, I have often had moments where I wanted to talk to my mom. Whether it was seeking advice, wanting to share a special moment, or simply the desire to say hi, there are times when I just wish my mom was still here. But again, I am reminded that we live in a broken world where death is inevitable and no one is immune from pain and suffering.

If there is anything I have learned over the last nine years it is that God can help us work through our pain, but He cannot remove the scars that pain and suffering bring to our lives. I was reminded of that this morning when I attended the funeral of a twenty-four-year-old woman who died during childbirth. As I sat in a church this morning with a community that mourned with a widower, his newborn daughter, and their families, my pain surfaced yet again. But it was in that moment that God's word of comfort was brought to mind by the Holy Spirit.

As I had nine years ago, I opened my Bible to 2 Corinthians 1. It was in those words that God once again reminded me that the will of God is not what happens to me; it's how I react to what happens to me. Sadness is an emotion we all experience at various times in life. We can choose to allow grief to control us or we can allow God to heal us by using us to bring healing to others. When we are willing to allow God to use us to serve others, He can also redeem even the darkest of situations.

shine!
Jason

I'm glad God isn't a CBP agent

This week we are getting ready to make a journey to Canada. I am speaking at a youth rally up at Great Lakes Christian College (which is actually a high school) in Beamsville, Ontario. It should prove to be an interesting weekend.

As we have been preparing, our group has probably killed a few trees with all of the documentation we need to cross the border. Passport. Birth certificate. Photo ID. Parent consent letter. We need all of these forms just to cross an imaginary line from one parcel of land to another.

Every time I travel out of the US, I get a little nervous when it's time to deal with the CBP folks (CBP is another government acronym which stands for Customs and Border Protection.) I always breathe a sigh of relief when I am through that ordeal. Generally it goes smooth, but occasionally you get the extra questions. Then you never know what will happen. Full body search. Open your suitcase. You are at their mercy.

I am so glad that God doesn't work for the CBP. When you cross into His Kingdom there are no forms. He doesn't ask a bunch of questions. While He asks for commitment, He doesn't ask you to jump through a bunch of hoops.

I love the simplicity of the Christian message. Engaging in the Kingdom of God is about joining in God's dream for Creation. God doesn't want to keep you out. He wants to let you in. Everyone is welcome.

The flip side of that is true as well. God doesn't keep anyone in through coercion. God's grace and mercy does not function that way. He always has open arms waiting to welcome you in. And that is something I doubt you will ever see a CBP agent do.

shine!
Jason

Why do we sin?

Why is sin often so enjoyable? I mean, if you think about it, why else would we sin?

Sure, we know it’s wrong. We know that God doesn’t want us to do it. Sometimes, we even know that sin will have negative consequences. Yet, in spite of all that, we sin anyway. What’s up with that?

The longer I live in this world, the more I realize that sin is often the symptom, not the problem. Sin is usually a shortcut to relieve pain, suffering, or emptiness. It is an unhealthy solution to something that is wrong in our lives.

Men engage in sexual sin because in some way they feel inadequate, alone, or helpless. They are simply looking for a place to find value and control over their situation. In the search for a solution, they often find a shortcut that brings temporary relief, but often unseen long-term consequences.

Women engage in gossip because they want everyone to know there is someone worse off than they are. In the search to feel better about themselves, the easiest solution is often to put someone else down.

Neither of these are exclusive to the gender I have ascribed them to, but these are a few common examples. Most of us, at times in our life, look for ways to heal the pain we feel.

God knows that we hurt. And God knows that sin will often bring a short-term solution to the pain. But God also knows that these "quick fixes" often lead to more pain in the long run. It could be days, months, or even years, but sin will usually come back with more pain than what we tried to fix in the first place.

God offers a different solution. Jesus said, "Come to me, all of you who are weary and carry heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you. Let me teach you, because I am humble and gentle at heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy to bear, and the burden I give you is light." (Matthew 11:28-30) Although it is often not the easy path, it is the one that offers more than a “quick fix” and brings true healing.

shine!
Jason

Faith of a child

Today I had the experience of being humbled by a 7-year-old.

So I am sitting in my house and my wife, Michelle, is checking her email. She tells me about an email she received from a friend explaining that several teenagers in our area were killed in a car accident. As Michelle is reading the email, she reads a part of the email asking us to pray for the families.

I think to myself, OK, I will pray for them.

Suddenly I hear a voice from the other room. My seven-year-old son, Matthew, sometimes the most practical theologian in the house, says from the other room, "Let's pray for them now."

Well, after experiencing a bit of pride and a taste of humility for not suggesting this myself, I ask Matthew if he would like to say the prayer. He agrees and offers a prayer that may not have been as "churchy sounding" as mine, but it was as sincere as any prayer I have heard in a long time.

If only we all could have the faith of a child.

shine!
Jason

Two Separate Domains

After being out of town most of the week with my family, I am back in Michigan. I did have time this week to write another paper for my grad class. This one addresses an article about Stephen Jay Gould about the physical domain and the metaphysical domain. Is it disturbing that this stuff is actually getting to be fun?

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Gould focuses most of his article around statements and papers presented by Pope Pius XII and Pope John Paul II. He utilizes these two articles to contrast how the situation with regards to evolution and creation has changed in the last fifty years.

These papal statements are the framework in which Gould reaffirms the NOMA (nonoverlapping magisterial) principle. This principle states that science and religion are two separate fields which do not overlap and have unique magisteriums (domains of teaching authority). Pius argued that since there was evidence for evolution, it can be accepted as long as the divine infusion of the soul is accepted as well. Since evolution falls within the magisterium of science and the soul is in the magisterium of religion, these two apparently do not conflict.

Gould rejoices in the fact that Pope John Paul II supports the advancements in science that reinforce evolution. This goes beyond Pius’ statement which still left evolution as questionable.

Gould describes an important aspect of the NOMA concept when he states, "If religion can no longer dictate the nature of factual conclusions residing properly with the magisterium of science, then scientists cannot claim higher insight into moral truth from any superior knowledge of the world’s empirical constitution."

I do not believe that the NOMA concept is logical or realistic. The more we learn about matter, energy, and the details of the universe, it appears as though there is inevitable overlap. NOMA will grant that there is some "gray area" where the two magisterium meet, but I would argue that there is overlap. Science cannot remain independent of morality and morality cannot exist outside of the realm of science.

If we believe in a Creator God, then we cannot accept the NOMA concept. However, the idea of evolution allows us to disconnect the moral God from the creative God. This unhealthy divorce is damaging to a holistic view of the universe, our world, and our lives.

The NOMA concept appears to be a way for religious people to avoid science and scientists to avoid morality. However, it is crucial that this not happen. When we say that science and religion do not share domains of teaching authority, we are robbing the religious person the opportunity to explore God and faith though scientific study. In addition, the scientist will tend to look at the world with less morality. This entire worldview disagrees with my view that the scientific world and the spiritual world overlap.

Gould’s theory assumes two paradigms of world-views: physical/scientific and metaphysical/religious. This is a faulty foundation because the metaphysical is the overlying structure for both. I believe that Gould revisits the mistake of the Scientific Revolution by attempting to separate the physical realm from the metaphysical. I would argue that the physical world is simply the empirically measurable aspects of the metaphysical realm.

One of the consequences of this separation of the physical from the metaphysical is a separation of morality from science. This can create a host of dilemmas in our modern world. As science explores cloning, stem-cell use, euthanasia, atomic weapons, and other modern scientific discoveries, Gould wants to remove morality from science at a time it is needed most. Not only is this theory faulty on a philosophical level, on a practical level it could have damaging consequences.

So where do we go from here? How can we react to Gould’s theory and provide a more holistic model? We must begin by acknowledging that science and theology overlap, but they each also have their own "space." Science and theology are partners that cannot be separated. For example, religion has contributed to many of the scientific achievements, especially in areas of medicine. Without the metaphysical influence of religion and theology, science may not have been as driven to learn more. Christianity had a significant impact over the last two millenniums to influence scientific thought.

I have already discussed the importance of morality in the realm of science, but what about the influence of science on religion? We must remember that scientific/physical realm is simply the empirical manifestation of the metaphysical realm. It is only part of a bigger picture. Therefore, it is essential to keep in mind that the physical realm cannot dominate the metaphysical. As we have learned in recent years with the developments described by those such as Schroeder, the more we learn about the physical world, the more the majesty of the metaphysical world is revealed to us.

One specific area where this is very important for our young people is in the area of evolution. As we wrestle with the origins of life, this balance of the physical and metaphysical is crucial. If science is the measurable part of the metaphysical, this has major implications in the evolution/creation debate. Rather than exclusively arguing the evidence for evolution against the evidence for creation (which is basically operating in Gould’s world-view), we must teach our young people to think critically and evaluate the physical (scientific) and metaphysical (moral) aspects of the origins of life.

David's latest song

The continuing adventures of David Archuleta on American Idol...

 

Vinaigrette

One of my favorite kinds of salad dressing is Vinaigrette. I enjoy the simplicity of olive oil and vinegar. There is something pure about it.

But I also know that if it sits very long the vinegar and oil separate. One settles towards the bottom of the bottle and the other floats to the top. They are two different substances that don't stay together very long if not in motion.

While I like vinaigrette for salad dressing, it can be a challenge in ministering to students when you have a vinaigrette youth group. What do I mean?

There are seasons in the life of a youth group when you have an influx of what some might call "unchurched" students. These are teenagers who have little or no church background. They may have never attended a worship service and are new to the whole "God thing."

Recently, we have experienced this exact situation. I have really enjoyed getting to know some of these students, but it has also been a challenge. It has been a challenge for them, for our existing students, and for some of our adults.

As an aside, I realize some of the people I am talking about might be reading this, so know that I am not trying to talk about you, per se. I am considering the challenges inherent anytime this dynamic occurs.

For the students who are new, there is the challenge of trying to understand this whole Christianity deal. What does it mean? What does it look like? They might ask tough questions like, "What about the teens in this youth group who go to my school, but pretty much act like everyone else?" Or, "Is this God for real?"

Some of them, if we are going to be quite honest, might be coming mostly for the social dynamic, to play some pool, and maybe to check out the members of the opposite sex. But I also believe that all of them - on some level - are looking for acceptance and a place to belong.

This brings us to the students who have been in the youth group. There is this funny thing about a youth group. It tends to be a close group of friends, but it is also a group who has difficulty assimilating new members. This is a phenomenon I have observed at every church I served with. The youth group is a friendly group. It is a loving group. But every group is - to some extent - a closed group.

If you can get in the group and become a part, you will become part of the family. But, if you are shy, different, or otherwise unable to "get in," a youth group can be a place that feels very unaccepting or unloving. Keep in mind that for most students in a youth group, this is not an intentional or malicious attitude. I believe it is part of the experience of adolescence where teenagers are trying to find their identity. In an effort to be a part of a group, students tend to put much more energy into gaining acceptance than offering it.

The last group is often the most perplexing. There always seem to be adults in a church who fear the "community kids." Maybe it's because they don't dress like "church kids." Maybe it's because some of them might smell like cigarette smoke or even alcohol. Maybe it's because they look like those trouble-making teens they have seen on TV or in a movie. Whatever the reason, some adults - again I believe unintentionally and without malice - reject these students based on their appearance. Unfortunately, this can add to the sense of unacceptance that these teens feel because they are "vinegar" trying to mix with "oil."

So what do we do?

I don't think there is an easy answer. But I do believe there are things we can do. While I don't begin to believe this is an exhaustive list, here are some of the actions that I believe will aid in creating a "vinaigrette" youth group. (I will confess here, that I have not been as diligent as I would have liked in instituting some of these.):

First, we must educate and encourage existing students to reach out to those who are new. While it may be easy to talk about it, bringing the theory to life can be a challenge. Students like their youth group and don't usually want things to change. In addition, some of the newer students may be from clans at school that they don't relate well to or even oppose. However, this is a golden opportunity to experience the fact that the Kingdom of God trumps any "kingdom" of this world. Accepting those you don't normally accept - and even your "enemies" - is central to the gospel message of Kingdom living.

In addition - and probably before anything else - we as youth workers must model acceptance for our students. If we want to create a welcoming environment, we must take action ourselves. We should be the first ones to offer an open hand. We should make a concerted effort to talk to newcomers. The students who have been in our ministry for a long time must know they are valued, but they also must see our lives testify to the fact that all are welcome. This may even require us to "encourage" students to make the effort to welcome those who are new.

Another action that I believe is vital is to balance teaching that both stretches the student who has been part of a church their whole life and makes the Word of God accessible to the teenager who may not even know where the book of Matthew is in the Bible. This is no easy task. It requires hard work, prayer, and patience. While not every lesson will reach every level of learner, we must be careful and diligent to communicate on various levels.

One final part of the puzzle that I will mention here is serving. When students on various places in their faith journey serve together, walls come down and bridges are built. I have watched teenagers who had strong dislike for one another serve together on a mission trip and return home as good friends. However, this can be a difficult thing when you have community teenagers who are just checking things out. They are often not ready to commit to serving opportunities. I can say that in situations where new students have engaged in serving, it has helped them connect with some members of the group.

As I said earlier, these are not panaceas that will fix everything, but they are potential parts of a solution to an often challenging situation. Obviously, every church is different, every youth group is different, and every student is different. But as we seek to reach out to students who are hurting, lost, confused, and lonely, we must be willing to shake things up a bit so that "vinegar" and "oil" can come together to create a vinaigrette that brings more flavor to the world of our teens.

shine!
Jason

The Falsification Debate and Religious Language

Here is another of my papers from my Philosophy of Religion class. This one explores the use of religious language and the "falsification debate." It might sound kind of boring, but the longer I am in this class, the more fun this stuff becomes!

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In these two articles, the authors reflect on two different aspects of religious language. In the first article, Flew and Mitchell center their discussion on the "falsification debate." The basic argument in this debate is whether or not religious statements must be proved with empirical evidence.

Flew begins his argument with a parable about two explorers who come upon a clearing in the jungle. As the two explorers examine the situation, one uses the empirical evidence to come to a conclusion that there is no gardener. The other explorer, the Believer, continues to believe despite the empirical evidence.

Flew argues that, through a process of qualification, the assertion made by the Believer should be empirically provable. According to Flew, if the visible facts contradict the assertion, then it is no longer an assertion at all. He applies this train of thought to Christianity by asking this question of the believer: “What would have to occur or to have occurred to constitute for you a disproof of the love of, or the existence of, God?” I would argue that question is invalid for the believer, because it assumes that God is the source of evil. Flew’s argument appears to discount God’s love, and thus his existence, because of the presence of evil in the world. I disagree with that premise so the question is irrelevant.

Mitchell challenges Flew by acknowledging the problem of evil, which appears to be one of Flew’s primary empirical proofs against the assertion of the existence of God. From there, Mitchell shares his own parable about "the Stranger." I believe this parable is relevant, but it still seems based on the assumption that God is the source of evil. Mitchell’s parable is a good illustration of how an inadequate theodicy can be troubling.

Mitchell agrees with Flew that theological utterances must be assertions. However, Mitchell goes on to say that these assertions explain the behavior of the partisan (the Believer). He concludes by considering that theological utterances can be treated in at least three different ways: (1) as provisional hypotheses to be discarded if experience tells against them, (2) as significant articles of faith, (3) as vacuous formulae to which experience makes no difference and which make no difference to life. Believers cannot have the first attitude and must exercise caution to avoid falling into the third.

I believe that Flew has some valid arguments with regards to qualification of assertions, but his premise is built on an unhealthy theodicy. It appears that Flew’s argument centers on his belief that God and evil cannot coexist and that the presence of evil in the world is evidence which disqualifies the assertion that God exists. While this is not his only evidence, it appears to be the significant issue for him. As a matter of fact, I believe the falsification principle is central both to Flew’s conversion to Deism and his notable continued disbelief in a God who interacts with mankind. While the evidence led Flew to disavow his atheism and become a deist, I also believe the lack of evidence continues to prevent him from advocating a belief in the God who most Christians profess.

Mitchell, on the other hand, seems to understand the idea of faith, and his options for dealing with theological utterances acknowledge the significance of faith while warning believers about empty words. We as believers must always take caution to assure that our lives reflect our language. Otherwise they become empty words with no real meaning in our lives.

Tillich takes a different approach to religious language. He considers the significance of religious symbols and signs. He begins his article by specifying the difference between symbols and signs. In his article, Tillich focuses on symbols, the more significant of the two, because "although they are not the same as that which they symbolize, participate in its meaning and power."

Symbols open up a level of reality which cannot be achieved otherwise. They allow us to experience what they symbolize in unique ways by opening up our soul. Symbols function ultimately is to allow us to experience something in a deeper way.

Religious symbols allow us to experience the ultimate reality of the Holy in a special way. Tillich discusses the two levels of religious symbols – the transcendent level and the immanent level. In the transcendent level, which goes beyond empirical reality, we begin with God himself. God is not just a symbol, but as an ultimate being and a person; God is more than we can comprehend.

We also consider the attributes of God (he is love, mercy, power, etc.) and the acts of God (he created the world, sent his son, etc.) as elements of the transcendent level. These all utilize religious language about God that find their place outside of time and space.

On the other hand, there are immanent level symbols that function and exist within time and space. The incarnation is the first of these. There are times and situations where God makes his presence known in this world. While we primarily think of Jesus’ incarnation, this can include any situation where the divine physically engages time and space.

The sacramental is another immanent symbol. This includes such symbols such as the Lord’s Supper. A third element includes things such as church buildings, candles, and other symbols which draw us closer to God.

Tillich ends his article by warning the believer to exercise caution. We cannot allow these symbols to become icons. For example, we must always remember the real power of the cross is found in Christ, not the cross we wear around our necks or view on a wall. We must remember that symbols, while participating in the meaning and power of what they symbolize, are not the source of the meaning and power.