Smokin'!
Stories
Contents
What's Up This Week
"Smokin'!" by Frank R. Fisher
"Earth, Wind, and Fire" by Gregory L. Tolle
"Hazel, Hap, and the Shalom of God" by Ron Lavin
"The Advocate" by Ron Lavin
What's Up This Week
The great festival of Pentecost -- the "birthday" of the church when we remember the appearance of the Holy Spirit -- is punctuated by the striking imagery of whirlwinds, tongues of fire, and allegedly drunken apostles. In the featured story of this edition of StoryShare, Frank Fisher draws on those powerful metaphors to show us what results when we don't keep alive the burning embers of the Spirit -- and the wonderful transformation that occurs when we are open to the call of the Spirit. As for those disciples who might need a field sobriety test... Greg Tolle suggests that if we are so sober and even-keeled that we would never be mistaken for being drunk, then maybe we need to let the Spirit do its work on us and become more passionate about our faith. Ron Lavin offers another perspective, with an account of God's shalom for an outsider and an alcoholic, as well as some thoughts about how the Holy Spirit functions as our advocate.
* * * * * * * * *
Smokin'!
Frank R. Fisher
Acts 2:1-21
"Smokin'!" [If you are telling this story, you can draw additional attention and add to the dramatic effect by screaming out "Smokin'!" and pounding the pulpit/lectern.]
That exclamation of excitement and awe emanated from the mouth of a teenage visitor to the very tiny congregation. For an instant the worshipers turned and gaped at the speaker with open mouths -- excitement, you see, wasn't a normal part of this congregation's order of worship. But the worshipers' attention quickly returned to the morning's main distraction. After all, things were going on around them that didn't seem to meet their proper criteria of decency and order.
Propriety had always been important to the tiny congregation. But they weren't always tiny. Once their sanctuary, in the church's upper room, had thronged with people. All sorts of influential people gathered there every Sunday, and frequently during the week, for worship, work, and fellowship. Lately, though, their membership had shrunk rapidly. And as they gathered together for worship on this Day of Pentecost, they couldn't help but wonder how long it would be before their doors shut forever.
Then in the middle of the service, in the midst of Pastor Johnson's somewhat boring sermon, it happened. All of a sudden, the pastor's calm and peaceful phrases were drowned out by a roaring sound. Ladies' hats, and one or two of the men's hairpieces, went sailing into the air as a hurricane-force wind burst through the doors and windows and swirled around and around the sanctuary. And in the midst of the wind appeared tongues like fire that reached down from the ceiling towards the head of every person in the room.
"What can be happening?" someone cried out with alarm.
"Don't be afraid," answered Pastor Johnson with a voice filled with awe. "It's Pentecost, and the Spirit's fire is falling again!"
Indeed it was the Holy Spirit coming among them, reminding them of the day Christ's church was born -- for as the fiery tongues reached each person, they knew the congregation could have a future. They knew the Spirit could empower them to reach out to others within their community. They knew the Spirit could give them the power to speak in ways their community both could hear and needed to hear. Exciting visions of a vital ministry stretched before their eyes as they saw the way the Spirit could work through them and empower their work.
But in the midst of their excitement, they drew back. "I just don't know if everyone will want to do this kind of work," one worshiper observed.
"Yes," another agreed. "It's a nice idea, but I'm not really sure we can fit it into our schedules."
One by one the worshipers agreed that the path ahead was impossible to tread. Then, in decency and in order, they filed out of the sanctuary, shook Pastor Johnson's hand, and said, "Nice sermon, pastor."
Five years later the congregation closed its doors for the very last time.
"Smokin'!"
That exclamation of excitement and awe emanated from the mouth of a teenage visitor to the very tiny congregation. For an instant the worshipers turned and gaped at the speaker with open mouths -- excitement, you see, wasn't a normal part of this congregation's order of worship. But the worshipers' attention quickly returned to the morning's main distraction. After all, things were going on around them that didn't seem to meet their proper criteria of decency and order.
Propriety had always been important to the tiny congregation. But they weren't always tiny. Worshipers both young and old had gathered here on the Lord's day to lift their hearts in praise and thanks to the Lord their God. They had been known throughout the community as an important force in their worshipers' lives and as a driving force behind the very community's existence. That force and drive, however, seemed to fade away as time went by. And as the reason behind the congregation's existence became forgotten, worshipers drifted away to other places. Today, as they gathered together for worship on this Day of Pentecost, they couldn't help but wonder if it was worth their while to continue their life together.
Then in the middle of the service, in the midst of the prayers of the people, it happened. All of a sudden, Pastor Meyer's words were drowned out by a roaring sound. Hymnals, bulletins, and the choir director's robe went sailing into the air as a hurricane-force wind burst through the doors and windows and swirled around and around the sanctuary. And in the midst of the wind appeared tongues like fire that reached down from the ceiling towards the head of every person in the room.
"What can be happening?" someone cried out with alarm.
"Don't be afraid," answered Pastor Meyer with a voice filled with awe. "It's Pentecost, and the Spirit's fire is falling again!"
Indeed it was the Holy Spirit coming among them, reminding them of the day Christ's church was born -- for as the fiery tongues reached each person, they knew the reason for the congregation's existence. They knew they existed to embody Christ's love both to their community and to the world. They knew the Spirit could empower them to show that love. They knew the Spirit could show them the direction they needed to go and the work they needed to do. Exciting visions of a vital ministry stretched before their eyes as they saw the way the Spirit could work through them to bring the light and love of Christ to everyone they met.
But in the midst of their excitement, they reconsidered. "This is a really good idea," one member observed.
"Yes," another agreed. "Why don't we make sure Pastor Meyer does this work? And we can hire some more staff to work with her."
One by one the worshipers agreed they'd direct the pastor and her staff to get busy with the work that needed to be done. Then, in decency and in order, they filed out of the sanctuary, shook Pastor Meyer's hand, and said, "It was a wonderful service. We'll talk some more about what we need you to do at our next Session meeting."
As the years went by, the clarity and vision they'd briefly observed became more and more obscured by the day-to-day tasks of keeping their organization functioning. More and more worshipers faded away to more and more places. Eventually the members decided there was no reason to continue their common life. And after a final worship service, they said good-bye and went on their separate ways.
"Smokin'!"
That exclamation of excitement and awe emanated from the mouth of a teenage visitor to the very tiny congregation. For an instant the worshipers turned and gaped at the speaker with open mouths -- excitement, you see, wasn't a normal part of this congregation's order of worship. But the worshipers' attention quickly returned to the morning's main distraction. After all, things were going on around them that didn't seem to meet their proper criteria of decency and order.
Propriety had always been important to the tiny congregation. But they weren't always tiny. Once their church was important to all those who gathered there. They knew they were the body of Jesus Christ and were both empowered and commanded to carry on Christ's work in the world. Lately, though, other factors had captured their attention. They'd begun to focus inwardly toward themselves and ceased to think about how they could personally reach out their hands to Christ's people. And as they gathered together for worship on this Day of Pentecost, they weren't even really sure of the reason why they came together in this place.
Then in the middle of the service, in the midst of the Lord's Supper, it happened. All of a sudden, the words of the pastor's great prayer of thanksgiving were drowned out by a roaring sound. Communion bread, the chalice, and the pastor's stole went sailing into the air as a hurricane-force wind burst through the doors and windows and swirled around and around the sanctuary. And in the midst of the wind appeared tongues like fire that reached down from the ceiling towards the head of every person in the room.
"What can be happening?" someone cried out with alarm.
"Don't be afraid," answered Pastor Smith with a voice filled with awe. "It's Pentecost, and the Spirit's fire is falling again!"
Indeed it was the Holy Spirit coming among them, reminding them of the day Christ's church was born -- for as the fiery tongues reached each person, they were reminded of their baptism vows and their call to reach out to others as members of Christ's body. They knew the Spirit could empower them and direct them as they reached out to follow their call. They knew the Spirit could show them the people they would serve and the ways they would serve them. Exciting visions of a vital ministry stretched before their eyes as they saw the way the Spirit could transform a burned-out lamp to a roaring flame that would shine Christ's love out clearly in the midst of the darkest night.
They accepted the Spirit's call to be about their Lord's work. Those who were able began to minister to those who were in need, as the Lord commanded. And their worshipers who were older and could no longer labor began the vital task of prayer for all those the congregation encountered. In words and in deeds the worshipers spoke to those to whom Christ called them in the language of love; a language all could know and understand.
New life abounded among them as they gathered to worship, for fellowship, and to serve. Fiery worship filled with the Spirit's power became their norm and kept them focused on their Lord's call. Not one of them knew how long their congregation would exist; indeed, not one of them even cared -- for they were about their Lord's work and living each day in the burning flame of the Spirit's breath.
That teenage worshiper's exclamation of awe became their byword and standard -- and the way they were known to all around them.
"Smokin'!" visitors shouted in wonder at the joy of their worship.
"Smokin'!" the community cried in wonder at the way they showed forth Christ's love.
Smokin'? "No, not us," the worshipers replied -- "for we work and worship in the love of Jesus Christ and through the power of the flame and wind of the Holy Spirit."
And to God alone be the glory.
Frank R. Fisher is a second-career interim/transitional pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA). He currently serves as the interim pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Bushnell, Illinois. A former paramedic and administrator for the Chicago Fire Department, Fisher is an Oblate of the ecumenical Abbey of John the Baptist and Saint Benedict in Bartonville, Illinois.
Earth, Wind, and Fire
Gregory L. Tolle
In his memoir Man of the House Tip O'Neill tells an old Irish story about Uncle Denny, who met his priest as he was walking down the street. The priest took one look at Uncle Denny and said, "You ought to be ashamed of yourself. Three weeks ago, you came in and took the pledge and vowed that you'd never take another drink as long as you live. And now look at you -- you're drunk."
Uncle Denny replied, "I'm not drunk, Father. What makes you say a thing like that? I'm not drunk at all!"
The priest responded, "Well, if you're not drunk, then why were you walking along with one foot on the curbstone and one foot in the gutter?"
Denny said, "I was?"
The priest confirmed, "Indeed you were."
And Uncle Denny replied, "Thank the good Lord, I thought I was lame."
Because of the apostles' behavior at Pentecost, they too were accused of being drunk. How else could the people explain their wild appearance and behavior? These people knew that these followers of Jesus were different. However, their assessment as to why was wrong. The apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit.
But it raises a question for us. When folks see and hear us, what do they assume? How do they explain our appearance and behavior?
It may be that there is nothing to explain. If we seem to be like everybody else, then shame on us. We are not called to blend in -- but to stand out in such a way that calls attention to our God. I wonder if too many Christians would never be mistaken for being drunk because their faith is so incredibly sober.
I don't drink, so I am way out of my league here, but I think I know what I would do if I wanted to keep a bit of a buzz. I would start with a drink first thing in the morning. I would keep a flask or something with me all day long. I would have a drink or two at lunch and dinner. And I would have a nightcap before bed. I would hang out with people who thought the same way and we would get drunk together.
That would be my approach if I wanted to live under the influence of alcohol. Perhaps it serves as a model for how I might live under the influence of the Spirit -- to keep in close contact with God all day and also to hang out with others who share my passion. Then it might be my privilege to be misunderstood by the people around me -- just like those Spirit-filled forefathers in Jerusalem.
The apostles weren't drunk -- just excited. They were filled with the Holy Spirit that they encountered through a violent wind and tongues of fire, and they took the message of Jesus to the entire earth. Pentecost was a moment of earth, wind, and fire.
We can't create this wind and flame, but we can -- and should -- allow the Holy Spirit to work within us to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Gregory L. Tolle is the senior minister at First United Methodist Church in Durant, Oklahoma. He is the author of three volumes of the CSS series Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit.
Hazel, Hap, and the Shalom of God
Ron Lavin
John 14:8-17 (25-27); Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
Hazel had oily skin, dirty hair, filthy clothes, and a dysfunctional personality. She was a street person with serious mental problems. She attended Our Saviour's Lutheran Church regularly -- and her psychotic behavior often upset things, as she would stand up and say strange things during worship. The pastor didn't know what to do with her. He alerted the ushers, who would stand near her pew and try to calm her down when she would have one of her fits. It didn't always work, but it was the best way the leaders could figure out to handle her during worship.
After the service was another matter. Hazel would stand in line to greet the pastor... then things went completely out of control. She would use "blue" language and cursing in her greeting. In Bible terms, Hazel was possessed by demons.
The pastor didn't know what to do with Hazel -- there was no reasoning with her, and no way to get her to change her behavior, no matter how well-intentioned members tried to help her. She continued to greet the pastor with words that a drunk at a bar would be ashamed to use, often including sexual statements which shocked everyone in hearing distance. Visitors sometimes told the pastor they could not return to a church where they heard someone act out such demonic behavior.
Finally the pastor and leaders devised a plan. The pastor would greet Hazel, saying, "The peace of God be with you," before she had a chance to speak. Then he would quickly "hand her off" to one of the church leaders, who would take her aside and let her "debrief." The leaders got an earful and the plan didn't always work, but it was at least a partial success.
One Sunday while Hazel knelt at the communion rail, the pastor thought, "I wonder if Hazel will act out today?" Somehow on this day Hazel seemed different. Suddenly, out of nowhere, the pastor saw Hazel in a different way. She was much younger and cleaner -- the picture of holiness. "This must be how God sees her," he thought. He smiled as he said, "The Body and Blood of Christ given and shed for you." Hazel smiled back. She crossed herself as she got up to return to her pew, looked back at the pastor, and said, "Peace."
A few months later Hazel died. At her funeral, attended by only a few people, the pastor mentioned his vision of Hazel the way God must see her. He added that after she had received communion that day, she turned and said "Peace" softly and affectionately. "That was the Hazel who, if only for a moment, knew the peace of God which passes all understanding," he said. "That was shalom."
Shalom, the Hebrew word Jesus used in his greeting to the apostles in John 14:25-27, means peace, wholeness, and health of body, soul, and spirit. Shalom means togetherness, as over against division. "Shalom, I leave with you; my shalom I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."
Hazel was a divided woman who at least for an instant knew the peace of God. Harold was also divided. He had his own demons. People called him "Hap" because he always seemed to be so happy, with a smile for everyone... but he was anything but happy. Hap was a successful lawyer and judge. He was also an alcoholic.
Hap was like two different people. When he was sober, he was a delight to be around. He worked hard in the legal community, was well-respected, and had lots of friends and associates. At church he was a well-thought-of leader. He was even elected to the council and call committee. To his family he said, "I can handle the drinking." They knew different.
When Hap was drunk he did some strange things, like the time he flew on a private plane from his midwestern town to Chicago for a Bears football game. It was not until the bills from the trip arrived that Hap realized the problem he had and that he could not handle the drinking. He remembered nothing about the trip, but here before him was proof as he gazed at the bills.
"That was the turning point," Hap said. "When I realized that I could make a trip like that and not remember anything about it, it suddenly dawned on me that I was an alcoholic and totally out of control. I turned to Alcoholics Anonymous for help. I also turned to God."
Hap never took another drink for the rest of his life. He got into one of the small groups of Christians and became the leader of the small group movement in his church. With his pastor he frequently spoke at koinonia (fellowship) conferences around the country. Whenever he spoke, he always told the story of that trip to the Chicago Bears game and what Christian fellowship meant to him. He also told people about the prayer he prayed each morning: "Father, I cannot face this day without you. I cannot handle my life without you. I cannot keep from drinking today without you. Send me your Holy Spirit, the Advocate, to guide me and lead me through this day."
For the last 20 years of his life, Hap knew shalom, "the peace of God which passes all understanding" (Philippians 4:7). That's the peace Jesus promised in John 14:27: "Shalom I leave with you... Let not your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."
Finally Hap was a happy man, at peace with God and himself.
The Advocate
Ron Lavin
John 14:8-17 (25-27); Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
The dictionary says an advocate is one who pleads the cause of another person. An advocate is a powerful or influential person who defends or maintains a cause or proposal on our behalf. John 14:26 says the Holy Spirit is our Advocate. The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit intercedes for all the saints in accordance with God's will (Romans 8:26-27). One of the ways the Holy Spirit advocates on our behalf is by crossing our path with special people.
His mother always told him he was "the best boy in town." Of course he wasn't, but he gained confidence from her belief in him. His mother was an example of God's love, enduring suffering with an attitude of acceptance that was inspirational and affirming people when others criticized them. His mother laughed in the face of adversity. From her the boy learned to believe in himself, to be patient in suffering, to try to see the positive side of life when others were negative, and how to laugh at times of trouble.
When the boy became a man, he was converted to Christianity. When that happened, he said to God, "You are a lot like my mother." He heard this answer in his mind: "Actually she is a lot like me, but you get the general idea." He always thought of his mother as an angel sent from God. In fact, she was an advocate, an agent of the Holy Spirit.
Cancer attacked her body. She came under hospice care, and on her deathbed her family gathered around her and sang her favorite song, "How Great Thou Art." When it came to the refrain, this advocate from God led the singing: "Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee, how great thou art! How great thou art!" There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Like the psalmist, she was saying, "I will sing to the Lord as long as I live" (Psalm 104:33).
The doctor had said, "There's no hope." The son replied, "There is hope, because my mother lived by hope. The Advocate brings us hope through people like my mother."
The son went on to become a pastor. He always looked for people like his mother who were God's agents of hope. In his first church the young pastor was surprised and hurt by criticism from a council member named Walter. The council president, Glenn, took the young pastor aside and said, "Don't pay too much attention to Walter. He's a good man, but sometimes he overstates his position. I want you to know something. I believe in you, pastor. You are going to do great things in the church." Glenn was an advocate of wisdom and affirmation.
In the pastor's second church, Duane, the lay leader of the congregation, stopped into the church office from time to time to see how things were going. "Things aren't going very well today," the pastor said. "I just got a nasty letter from one of our members and I've written a reply. I was just about to put it in the mail."
"Do you mind if I read the letter and your reply?" Duane asked.
"Please do," the pastor replied.
When Duane finished reading the letters, he said, "I want to give you some advice. Over the years I've learned that you never send negative letters to anyone, even if you are sure you are right. Negative letters come back to haunt us. It's good to write out what you are feeling, but it's best not to be negative in letters. Wait and talk to the negative people face to face, when they have the chance to reply. Then you have the possibility of give and take." The pastor didn't send the negative reply. More important, he never sent a negative letter for the rest of his ministry. Duane was an advocate of good communication.
In the pastor's third church, a large church with many staff members, Royce was a friend who provided unusually good insight into staff relations. A business executive with International Harvester, Royce had learned good processes for handling difficult staff members. When the pastor had hard decisions to make about staff members, he often turned to Royce and told him the action he was planning. Instead of telling the pastor he was wrong, Royce often asked a question: "Are you sure you want to do it that way?"
"What do you mean?"
"There may be a better way to handle this."
"Tell me what I might do differently." Royce would respond by making a suggestion that proved to be far superior to the action the pastor had planned, thus reducing conflict situations which might have arisen. Royce was an advocate for good processes.
The Holy Spirit of God is our Advocate for hope, wisdom, good communication, and good processes. The Holy Spirit is also our Advocate for witness. Jesus said: "When your Advocate has come... he will bear witness to me. And you also are my witnesses" (John 15:26-27).
Mary Ann was a great organizer of people. She gave everyone a job. She provided hospitality to newcomers at her church. She headed up the evangelism committee where she was a model of witness and hospitality. For committee meetings she provided tasty snacks and meals. The evangelism committee grew from 20 to 50 to 80 to 120 members. That's larger than some churches! Mary Ann was a witness for Christ who inspired others to be witnesses. She worked closely with the pastor. Together they saw the membership of the church double. Mary Ann was an advocate of the Holy Spirit for witness.
In retirement, as the pastor reflected on his ministry, he remembered that God sends people to us as reminders of what we have been called to do. These advocates help us remember what the Bible teaches us about God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit. Jesus said: "...the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all I have said to you" (John 14:26).
(For further information about the work of the Holy Spirit, see Ron Lavin's book The Advocate, CSS Publishing Co., 1999.)
Ron Lavin is the award-winning author of more than 20 books, including Turning Griping into Gratitude, Way to Grow! and the popular Another Look series (CSS). He is the former Pastor-Director of Evangelical Outreach for the Lutheran Church in America, and was a pastor of five thriving congregations, all of which grew substantially under his leadership.
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StoryShare, May 27, 2007, issue.
Copyright 2007 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
All rights reserved. Subscribers to the StoryShare service may print and use this material as it was intended in sermons, in worship and classroom settings, in brief devotions, in radio spots, and as newsletter fillers. No additional permission is required from the publisher for such use by subscribers only. Inquiries should be addressed to permissions@csspub.com or to Permissions, CSS Publishing Company, Inc., 517 South Main Street, Lima, Ohio 45804.
What's Up This Week
"Smokin'!" by Frank R. Fisher
"Earth, Wind, and Fire" by Gregory L. Tolle
"Hazel, Hap, and the Shalom of God" by Ron Lavin
"The Advocate" by Ron Lavin
What's Up This Week
The great festival of Pentecost -- the "birthday" of the church when we remember the appearance of the Holy Spirit -- is punctuated by the striking imagery of whirlwinds, tongues of fire, and allegedly drunken apostles. In the featured story of this edition of StoryShare, Frank Fisher draws on those powerful metaphors to show us what results when we don't keep alive the burning embers of the Spirit -- and the wonderful transformation that occurs when we are open to the call of the Spirit. As for those disciples who might need a field sobriety test... Greg Tolle suggests that if we are so sober and even-keeled that we would never be mistaken for being drunk, then maybe we need to let the Spirit do its work on us and become more passionate about our faith. Ron Lavin offers another perspective, with an account of God's shalom for an outsider and an alcoholic, as well as some thoughts about how the Holy Spirit functions as our advocate.
* * * * * * * * *
Smokin'!
Frank R. Fisher
Acts 2:1-21
"Smokin'!" [If you are telling this story, you can draw additional attention and add to the dramatic effect by screaming out "Smokin'!" and pounding the pulpit/lectern.]
That exclamation of excitement and awe emanated from the mouth of a teenage visitor to the very tiny congregation. For an instant the worshipers turned and gaped at the speaker with open mouths -- excitement, you see, wasn't a normal part of this congregation's order of worship. But the worshipers' attention quickly returned to the morning's main distraction. After all, things were going on around them that didn't seem to meet their proper criteria of decency and order.
Propriety had always been important to the tiny congregation. But they weren't always tiny. Once their sanctuary, in the church's upper room, had thronged with people. All sorts of influential people gathered there every Sunday, and frequently during the week, for worship, work, and fellowship. Lately, though, their membership had shrunk rapidly. And as they gathered together for worship on this Day of Pentecost, they couldn't help but wonder how long it would be before their doors shut forever.
Then in the middle of the service, in the midst of Pastor Johnson's somewhat boring sermon, it happened. All of a sudden, the pastor's calm and peaceful phrases were drowned out by a roaring sound. Ladies' hats, and one or two of the men's hairpieces, went sailing into the air as a hurricane-force wind burst through the doors and windows and swirled around and around the sanctuary. And in the midst of the wind appeared tongues like fire that reached down from the ceiling towards the head of every person in the room.
"What can be happening?" someone cried out with alarm.
"Don't be afraid," answered Pastor Johnson with a voice filled with awe. "It's Pentecost, and the Spirit's fire is falling again!"
Indeed it was the Holy Spirit coming among them, reminding them of the day Christ's church was born -- for as the fiery tongues reached each person, they knew the congregation could have a future. They knew the Spirit could empower them to reach out to others within their community. They knew the Spirit could give them the power to speak in ways their community both could hear and needed to hear. Exciting visions of a vital ministry stretched before their eyes as they saw the way the Spirit could work through them and empower their work.
But in the midst of their excitement, they drew back. "I just don't know if everyone will want to do this kind of work," one worshiper observed.
"Yes," another agreed. "It's a nice idea, but I'm not really sure we can fit it into our schedules."
One by one the worshipers agreed that the path ahead was impossible to tread. Then, in decency and in order, they filed out of the sanctuary, shook Pastor Johnson's hand, and said, "Nice sermon, pastor."
Five years later the congregation closed its doors for the very last time.
"Smokin'!"
That exclamation of excitement and awe emanated from the mouth of a teenage visitor to the very tiny congregation. For an instant the worshipers turned and gaped at the speaker with open mouths -- excitement, you see, wasn't a normal part of this congregation's order of worship. But the worshipers' attention quickly returned to the morning's main distraction. After all, things were going on around them that didn't seem to meet their proper criteria of decency and order.
Propriety had always been important to the tiny congregation. But they weren't always tiny. Worshipers both young and old had gathered here on the Lord's day to lift their hearts in praise and thanks to the Lord their God. They had been known throughout the community as an important force in their worshipers' lives and as a driving force behind the very community's existence. That force and drive, however, seemed to fade away as time went by. And as the reason behind the congregation's existence became forgotten, worshipers drifted away to other places. Today, as they gathered together for worship on this Day of Pentecost, they couldn't help but wonder if it was worth their while to continue their life together.
Then in the middle of the service, in the midst of the prayers of the people, it happened. All of a sudden, Pastor Meyer's words were drowned out by a roaring sound. Hymnals, bulletins, and the choir director's robe went sailing into the air as a hurricane-force wind burst through the doors and windows and swirled around and around the sanctuary. And in the midst of the wind appeared tongues like fire that reached down from the ceiling towards the head of every person in the room.
"What can be happening?" someone cried out with alarm.
"Don't be afraid," answered Pastor Meyer with a voice filled with awe. "It's Pentecost, and the Spirit's fire is falling again!"
Indeed it was the Holy Spirit coming among them, reminding them of the day Christ's church was born -- for as the fiery tongues reached each person, they knew the reason for the congregation's existence. They knew they existed to embody Christ's love both to their community and to the world. They knew the Spirit could empower them to show that love. They knew the Spirit could show them the direction they needed to go and the work they needed to do. Exciting visions of a vital ministry stretched before their eyes as they saw the way the Spirit could work through them to bring the light and love of Christ to everyone they met.
But in the midst of their excitement, they reconsidered. "This is a really good idea," one member observed.
"Yes," another agreed. "Why don't we make sure Pastor Meyer does this work? And we can hire some more staff to work with her."
One by one the worshipers agreed they'd direct the pastor and her staff to get busy with the work that needed to be done. Then, in decency and in order, they filed out of the sanctuary, shook Pastor Meyer's hand, and said, "It was a wonderful service. We'll talk some more about what we need you to do at our next Session meeting."
As the years went by, the clarity and vision they'd briefly observed became more and more obscured by the day-to-day tasks of keeping their organization functioning. More and more worshipers faded away to more and more places. Eventually the members decided there was no reason to continue their common life. And after a final worship service, they said good-bye and went on their separate ways.
"Smokin'!"
That exclamation of excitement and awe emanated from the mouth of a teenage visitor to the very tiny congregation. For an instant the worshipers turned and gaped at the speaker with open mouths -- excitement, you see, wasn't a normal part of this congregation's order of worship. But the worshipers' attention quickly returned to the morning's main distraction. After all, things were going on around them that didn't seem to meet their proper criteria of decency and order.
Propriety had always been important to the tiny congregation. But they weren't always tiny. Once their church was important to all those who gathered there. They knew they were the body of Jesus Christ and were both empowered and commanded to carry on Christ's work in the world. Lately, though, other factors had captured their attention. They'd begun to focus inwardly toward themselves and ceased to think about how they could personally reach out their hands to Christ's people. And as they gathered together for worship on this Day of Pentecost, they weren't even really sure of the reason why they came together in this place.
Then in the middle of the service, in the midst of the Lord's Supper, it happened. All of a sudden, the words of the pastor's great prayer of thanksgiving were drowned out by a roaring sound. Communion bread, the chalice, and the pastor's stole went sailing into the air as a hurricane-force wind burst through the doors and windows and swirled around and around the sanctuary. And in the midst of the wind appeared tongues like fire that reached down from the ceiling towards the head of every person in the room.
"What can be happening?" someone cried out with alarm.
"Don't be afraid," answered Pastor Smith with a voice filled with awe. "It's Pentecost, and the Spirit's fire is falling again!"
Indeed it was the Holy Spirit coming among them, reminding them of the day Christ's church was born -- for as the fiery tongues reached each person, they were reminded of their baptism vows and their call to reach out to others as members of Christ's body. They knew the Spirit could empower them and direct them as they reached out to follow their call. They knew the Spirit could show them the people they would serve and the ways they would serve them. Exciting visions of a vital ministry stretched before their eyes as they saw the way the Spirit could transform a burned-out lamp to a roaring flame that would shine Christ's love out clearly in the midst of the darkest night.
They accepted the Spirit's call to be about their Lord's work. Those who were able began to minister to those who were in need, as the Lord commanded. And their worshipers who were older and could no longer labor began the vital task of prayer for all those the congregation encountered. In words and in deeds the worshipers spoke to those to whom Christ called them in the language of love; a language all could know and understand.
New life abounded among them as they gathered to worship, for fellowship, and to serve. Fiery worship filled with the Spirit's power became their norm and kept them focused on their Lord's call. Not one of them knew how long their congregation would exist; indeed, not one of them even cared -- for they were about their Lord's work and living each day in the burning flame of the Spirit's breath.
That teenage worshiper's exclamation of awe became their byword and standard -- and the way they were known to all around them.
"Smokin'!" visitors shouted in wonder at the joy of their worship.
"Smokin'!" the community cried in wonder at the way they showed forth Christ's love.
Smokin'? "No, not us," the worshipers replied -- "for we work and worship in the love of Jesus Christ and through the power of the flame and wind of the Holy Spirit."
And to God alone be the glory.
Frank R. Fisher is a second-career interim/transitional pastor in the Presbyterian Church (USA). He currently serves as the interim pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Bushnell, Illinois. A former paramedic and administrator for the Chicago Fire Department, Fisher is an Oblate of the ecumenical Abbey of John the Baptist and Saint Benedict in Bartonville, Illinois.
Earth, Wind, and Fire
Gregory L. Tolle
In his memoir Man of the House Tip O'Neill tells an old Irish story about Uncle Denny, who met his priest as he was walking down the street. The priest took one look at Uncle Denny and said, "You ought to be ashamed of yourself. Three weeks ago, you came in and took the pledge and vowed that you'd never take another drink as long as you live. And now look at you -- you're drunk."
Uncle Denny replied, "I'm not drunk, Father. What makes you say a thing like that? I'm not drunk at all!"
The priest responded, "Well, if you're not drunk, then why were you walking along with one foot on the curbstone and one foot in the gutter?"
Denny said, "I was?"
The priest confirmed, "Indeed you were."
And Uncle Denny replied, "Thank the good Lord, I thought I was lame."
Because of the apostles' behavior at Pentecost, they too were accused of being drunk. How else could the people explain their wild appearance and behavior? These people knew that these followers of Jesus were different. However, their assessment as to why was wrong. The apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit.
But it raises a question for us. When folks see and hear us, what do they assume? How do they explain our appearance and behavior?
It may be that there is nothing to explain. If we seem to be like everybody else, then shame on us. We are not called to blend in -- but to stand out in such a way that calls attention to our God. I wonder if too many Christians would never be mistaken for being drunk because their faith is so incredibly sober.
I don't drink, so I am way out of my league here, but I think I know what I would do if I wanted to keep a bit of a buzz. I would start with a drink first thing in the morning. I would keep a flask or something with me all day long. I would have a drink or two at lunch and dinner. And I would have a nightcap before bed. I would hang out with people who thought the same way and we would get drunk together.
That would be my approach if I wanted to live under the influence of alcohol. Perhaps it serves as a model for how I might live under the influence of the Spirit -- to keep in close contact with God all day and also to hang out with others who share my passion. Then it might be my privilege to be misunderstood by the people around me -- just like those Spirit-filled forefathers in Jerusalem.
The apostles weren't drunk -- just excited. They were filled with the Holy Spirit that they encountered through a violent wind and tongues of fire, and they took the message of Jesus to the entire earth. Pentecost was a moment of earth, wind, and fire.
We can't create this wind and flame, but we can -- and should -- allow the Holy Spirit to work within us to take the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Gregory L. Tolle is the senior minister at First United Methodist Church in Durant, Oklahoma. He is the author of three volumes of the CSS series Lectionary Tales for the Pulpit.
Hazel, Hap, and the Shalom of God
Ron Lavin
John 14:8-17 (25-27); Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
Hazel had oily skin, dirty hair, filthy clothes, and a dysfunctional personality. She was a street person with serious mental problems. She attended Our Saviour's Lutheran Church regularly -- and her psychotic behavior often upset things, as she would stand up and say strange things during worship. The pastor didn't know what to do with her. He alerted the ushers, who would stand near her pew and try to calm her down when she would have one of her fits. It didn't always work, but it was the best way the leaders could figure out to handle her during worship.
After the service was another matter. Hazel would stand in line to greet the pastor... then things went completely out of control. She would use "blue" language and cursing in her greeting. In Bible terms, Hazel was possessed by demons.
The pastor didn't know what to do with Hazel -- there was no reasoning with her, and no way to get her to change her behavior, no matter how well-intentioned members tried to help her. She continued to greet the pastor with words that a drunk at a bar would be ashamed to use, often including sexual statements which shocked everyone in hearing distance. Visitors sometimes told the pastor they could not return to a church where they heard someone act out such demonic behavior.
Finally the pastor and leaders devised a plan. The pastor would greet Hazel, saying, "The peace of God be with you," before she had a chance to speak. Then he would quickly "hand her off" to one of the church leaders, who would take her aside and let her "debrief." The leaders got an earful and the plan didn't always work, but it was at least a partial success.
One Sunday while Hazel knelt at the communion rail, the pastor thought, "I wonder if Hazel will act out today?" Somehow on this day Hazel seemed different. Suddenly, out of nowhere, the pastor saw Hazel in a different way. She was much younger and cleaner -- the picture of holiness. "This must be how God sees her," he thought. He smiled as he said, "The Body and Blood of Christ given and shed for you." Hazel smiled back. She crossed herself as she got up to return to her pew, looked back at the pastor, and said, "Peace."
A few months later Hazel died. At her funeral, attended by only a few people, the pastor mentioned his vision of Hazel the way God must see her. He added that after she had received communion that day, she turned and said "Peace" softly and affectionately. "That was the Hazel who, if only for a moment, knew the peace of God which passes all understanding," he said. "That was shalom."
Shalom, the Hebrew word Jesus used in his greeting to the apostles in John 14:25-27, means peace, wholeness, and health of body, soul, and spirit. Shalom means togetherness, as over against division. "Shalom, I leave with you; my shalom I give to you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."
Hazel was a divided woman who at least for an instant knew the peace of God. Harold was also divided. He had his own demons. People called him "Hap" because he always seemed to be so happy, with a smile for everyone... but he was anything but happy. Hap was a successful lawyer and judge. He was also an alcoholic.
Hap was like two different people. When he was sober, he was a delight to be around. He worked hard in the legal community, was well-respected, and had lots of friends and associates. At church he was a well-thought-of leader. He was even elected to the council and call committee. To his family he said, "I can handle the drinking." They knew different.
When Hap was drunk he did some strange things, like the time he flew on a private plane from his midwestern town to Chicago for a Bears football game. It was not until the bills from the trip arrived that Hap realized the problem he had and that he could not handle the drinking. He remembered nothing about the trip, but here before him was proof as he gazed at the bills.
"That was the turning point," Hap said. "When I realized that I could make a trip like that and not remember anything about it, it suddenly dawned on me that I was an alcoholic and totally out of control. I turned to Alcoholics Anonymous for help. I also turned to God."
Hap never took another drink for the rest of his life. He got into one of the small groups of Christians and became the leader of the small group movement in his church. With his pastor he frequently spoke at koinonia (fellowship) conferences around the country. Whenever he spoke, he always told the story of that trip to the Chicago Bears game and what Christian fellowship meant to him. He also told people about the prayer he prayed each morning: "Father, I cannot face this day without you. I cannot handle my life without you. I cannot keep from drinking today without you. Send me your Holy Spirit, the Advocate, to guide me and lead me through this day."
For the last 20 years of his life, Hap knew shalom, "the peace of God which passes all understanding" (Philippians 4:7). That's the peace Jesus promised in John 14:27: "Shalom I leave with you... Let not your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid."
Finally Hap was a happy man, at peace with God and himself.
The Advocate
Ron Lavin
John 14:8-17 (25-27); Psalm 104:24-34, 35b
The dictionary says an advocate is one who pleads the cause of another person. An advocate is a powerful or influential person who defends or maintains a cause or proposal on our behalf. John 14:26 says the Holy Spirit is our Advocate. The Bible teaches that the Holy Spirit intercedes for all the saints in accordance with God's will (Romans 8:26-27). One of the ways the Holy Spirit advocates on our behalf is by crossing our path with special people.
His mother always told him he was "the best boy in town." Of course he wasn't, but he gained confidence from her belief in him. His mother was an example of God's love, enduring suffering with an attitude of acceptance that was inspirational and affirming people when others criticized them. His mother laughed in the face of adversity. From her the boy learned to believe in himself, to be patient in suffering, to try to see the positive side of life when others were negative, and how to laugh at times of trouble.
When the boy became a man, he was converted to Christianity. When that happened, he said to God, "You are a lot like my mother." He heard this answer in his mind: "Actually she is a lot like me, but you get the general idea." He always thought of his mother as an angel sent from God. In fact, she was an advocate, an agent of the Holy Spirit.
Cancer attacked her body. She came under hospice care, and on her deathbed her family gathered around her and sang her favorite song, "How Great Thou Art." When it came to the refrain, this advocate from God led the singing: "Then sings my soul, my Savior God, to thee, how great thou art! How great thou art!" There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Like the psalmist, she was saying, "I will sing to the Lord as long as I live" (Psalm 104:33).
The doctor had said, "There's no hope." The son replied, "There is hope, because my mother lived by hope. The Advocate brings us hope through people like my mother."
The son went on to become a pastor. He always looked for people like his mother who were God's agents of hope. In his first church the young pastor was surprised and hurt by criticism from a council member named Walter. The council president, Glenn, took the young pastor aside and said, "Don't pay too much attention to Walter. He's a good man, but sometimes he overstates his position. I want you to know something. I believe in you, pastor. You are going to do great things in the church." Glenn was an advocate of wisdom and affirmation.
In the pastor's second church, Duane, the lay leader of the congregation, stopped into the church office from time to time to see how things were going. "Things aren't going very well today," the pastor said. "I just got a nasty letter from one of our members and I've written a reply. I was just about to put it in the mail."
"Do you mind if I read the letter and your reply?" Duane asked.
"Please do," the pastor replied.
When Duane finished reading the letters, he said, "I want to give you some advice. Over the years I've learned that you never send negative letters to anyone, even if you are sure you are right. Negative letters come back to haunt us. It's good to write out what you are feeling, but it's best not to be negative in letters. Wait and talk to the negative people face to face, when they have the chance to reply. Then you have the possibility of give and take." The pastor didn't send the negative reply. More important, he never sent a negative letter for the rest of his ministry. Duane was an advocate of good communication.
In the pastor's third church, a large church with many staff members, Royce was a friend who provided unusually good insight into staff relations. A business executive with International Harvester, Royce had learned good processes for handling difficult staff members. When the pastor had hard decisions to make about staff members, he often turned to Royce and told him the action he was planning. Instead of telling the pastor he was wrong, Royce often asked a question: "Are you sure you want to do it that way?"
"What do you mean?"
"There may be a better way to handle this."
"Tell me what I might do differently." Royce would respond by making a suggestion that proved to be far superior to the action the pastor had planned, thus reducing conflict situations which might have arisen. Royce was an advocate for good processes.
The Holy Spirit of God is our Advocate for hope, wisdom, good communication, and good processes. The Holy Spirit is also our Advocate for witness. Jesus said: "When your Advocate has come... he will bear witness to me. And you also are my witnesses" (John 15:26-27).
Mary Ann was a great organizer of people. She gave everyone a job. She provided hospitality to newcomers at her church. She headed up the evangelism committee where she was a model of witness and hospitality. For committee meetings she provided tasty snacks and meals. The evangelism committee grew from 20 to 50 to 80 to 120 members. That's larger than some churches! Mary Ann was a witness for Christ who inspired others to be witnesses. She worked closely with the pastor. Together they saw the membership of the church double. Mary Ann was an advocate of the Holy Spirit for witness.
In retirement, as the pastor reflected on his ministry, he remembered that God sends people to us as reminders of what we have been called to do. These advocates help us remember what the Bible teaches us about God, His Son, and the Holy Spirit. Jesus said: "...the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you everything, and remind you of all I have said to you" (John 14:26).
(For further information about the work of the Holy Spirit, see Ron Lavin's book The Advocate, CSS Publishing Co., 1999.)
Ron Lavin is the award-winning author of more than 20 books, including Turning Griping into Gratitude, Way to Grow! and the popular Another Look series (CSS). He is the former Pastor-Director of Evangelical Outreach for the Lutheran Church in America, and was a pastor of five thriving congregations, all of which grew substantially under his leadership.
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StoryShare, May 27, 2007, issue.
Copyright 2007 by CSS Publishing Company, Inc., Lima, Ohio.
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