longeyemoose

Time For A Change?

2011-12-01T12:29:00.001-05:00

The Mrs and I can't help but wonder if it's time for a change. Son the Elder has not improved and maybe, just maybe a different approach would be beneficial to him.

We are considering Bethesda Lutheran Communities as a home for this young man. We have thought for some time that this would eventually be his home. Now we think a prolonged wait does not serve him well.

Of course there are waiting lists for Home and Community Services. We will have to accept an ICF-MR home until he waits his turn for HCS -- could be several years. We will make visits and start the process with whatever paperwork is required.

We expected to wait. It now appears that an ICF-MR home might be accepting applicants in several States. This would still take time, months though, instead of years. While this complicates matters, it does not seem prudent to wait if funding is available -- one never do know do one, if funding will remain for new applicants?

Why is this a complication?

We do not live near a Bethesda facility. Son the Elder will be moving -- FAR AWAY.

Our daughter is also moving, as a call to serve is imminent (not a done deal, seems certain though), a call to a congregation as a Deaconess. She too will be far away. Why no CAPS for her? Well, we have been eagerly seeking her move into her own life. She is ready to move on into her own sphere of living. Also, we can call her and have a conversation. We can even see her on video chat!

Son the Elder does not speak. Yes, the folks in charge will happily tell us all that's going on with him. It would make a tremendous difference though if he could tell us - in his voice - how he is doing.

We will live near him, but not for several years! Those are the complications. He will be fine, we will have the more difficult adjustment.

Nothing is yet decided, but 2012 is looking like a banner year for change at my address!

My mind is swimming!

2011-11-11T16:51:00.001-05:00

I know... not posted much. I have a few things to say. They're on the way...

2011-09-16T13:42:00.000-04:00

In the wee hours...

of last night, Son the Elder had a seizure. On this occasion he was kicking the walls, it should have awakened the whole house. It did not wake me - the Mrs did that. As usual I went running, as usual I arrived as it was ending.

He was unhappy - who could blame him! But not agitated and angry like he gets when his diaphragm is part of the seizure and prevents breathing - "I'll take it", thought I as I sat with him, rubbed his back while normal breathing returned.

While sitting with him, I thought, "how normal he looks", at rest.

He will have to wait. We will too.

We confess in the Apostle's Creed, "I believe in...the resurrection of the body".

As Christians we do not believe that eternity is a place of the disembodied. We have to wait for the Last Day, the day of the Resurrection of the body. We are not vapor. We are not emptiness. And while this body of death may seem like something we can do without -- what with aches and pains, bits of flesh we wouldn't miss, seizures and whatnot...

we are incomplete without bodies.

What we consider "normal" is normal in this fallen world - it is what we normally encounter. It is not normal however in the sense of the design or plan. When God the Son became incarnate, taking on human flesh, much of what he did here was to turn things back to the original design. Those miracles were in a sense undoing the fall. He wasn't just here going "ZAP!, me be Gawd, take that!"

It gives comfort to look ahead to the resurrection of the body, when Son the Elder will be well.

2011-08-22T21:04:00.000-04:00

My thoughts...

are composed and my further response -- why bother?

It is clear that the toy religion of the Mormons is destructive to families. If you ask Mormons too many questions they're like gremlins fed after midnight!

They are daft! I have life and death matters to deal with and do not have time for silly half off religions.

Praise to God for his indescribable gift! God in flesh has dwelt among us, He has taken our many sins and exchanged with us his righteousness!

AMAZING!

2011-06-28T17:47:00.000-04:00

Disowned!

by my own sister. I suppose it was to be expected. Cult leadership gets nervous when a knowledgeable Christian pokes at the turd of cult doctrine!

It appears that she was told to shut down her facebook account. She is still young in the forces that own her.

Alas, she is a Mormon. I will form my thoughts and respond further. It is sad when one wanders from Christ's church -- sadder when one disowns him for a sham.

2011-05-26T09:49:00.000-04:00

Where have I been?

Search me! Well... I seem to be somewhat caught up in getting my ducks in a row for future retirement.

There are more ducks to line up when a disabled child - now an adult - has to be figured into the equation.

Barring information that opens additional opportunities, Son the Elder will spend much of his adult life with Bethesda Lutheran Communities. They are an organization with a good reputation for care of folks with developmental disabilities - care of body and soul.

That said, I remain concerned that his Lutheran faith be nurtured in doctrine and practice when his home is not at my address. Many, even at Bethesda, are of the mistaken impression that an emotional response is proof that something good is happening. If he is laughing and flapping his arms that might be construed as evidence that he is "getting something" from his "worship" experience.

Now if Son the Younger is laughing and flapping his arms we call that mischief, and it will result in a small slap to the back of the head (Gibbs-ing, we call it). Why the difference? I would argue that it isn't different.

Happy Clappy is not good for the soul! The Western Mass is not lost on the developmentally disabled. If these persons are wiggly and impatient, carry on. God's Word is at work in the speaking, in the hearing. God's Word causes growth as the Holy Spirit is in and with it.

If Son the Elder is laughing and flapping that is not evidece of getting something out of it -- it's evidence of excitability and is not conducive to learning or growing. It means he is distracted. That may be good if I'm trying to eat a snack that he shouldn't have, not so good if growing in faith is the goal.

Now that puts me in a quandary. I will have to live near him to have influence on where and how he worships.

When I retire, a move is likely. A move to a locality where Son the Elder can have a home and we can live nearby. Perhaps a local congregation can be encouraged to provide a setting of the Western Mass for the disabled - who knows?

My ducks are still a bit helter skelter, but with a little imagination a line is hinted at -- we'll keep getting the line in order for the day when retirement is required. It won't be too long now!

2011-03-10T09:15:00.000-05:00

LENT!

It's finally here! I could hardly sleep the other night awaiting the dawn of... oh wait, that was Christmas.

While it has been said that I'm not quite right - you know who you are - I really do love this season of the church year, Lent/Easter. It's better than Advent/Christmas.

By the time we're done putzing around the tree I feel as though I need to wash!

Lent, though, is all about the need to wash. It has an emphasis on Law. Not, as many think, on the "requirement" to give something up, or fast - though if you find them useful disciplines to aid your reflections on the need for washing - good!

Lent is a reflective time. We live in a culture that has no time to reflect -- it is always pushing forward, all about the now or the about to be.

Lent is a time to slow down and look in the mirror of God's Law. It's a time to realign our thinking. Beauty and sweetness and goodness - only skin deep (and like the buildings in a spaghetti western - just a front), we're rotten to the core!

Lent is not a time to be depressed. We reflect, we don't forget. The gift we're preparing to celebrate is worth the wait and the inward preparation. The time spent and the hymns in a minor key prepare us to find more joy in the celebration to come (double entendre intended).

2011-02-23T21:10:00.000-05:00

vaccines are unavoidably unsafe...

thank God for the U.S. Supreme Court! I know I feel MUCH better! So let's see... my son (the Elder) is UNAVOIDABLY trashed by United States vaccine policy! But don't worry, the pharmaceutical industry is safe from lawsuits. We wouldn't want anything stopping the flow of unavoidably unsafe drugs from being mainlined into our infants.

Screw the court -

there is reason to thank God. His inexpressable gift. In Baptism, Son the Elder is clothed with Christ. It's the only fix - for me, for you, for him.

2010-12-15T08:06:00.003-05:00

Islam -

Mohammedans scare us. Western Europe is close to falling to the "Turk". Their ideas of "justice" are backwards to us. They do not respect others. Not their rights, laws, life or religion.

So let's get them!

Well, that's what I keep hearing! Ours is a nation where respect for the rule of law is REQUIRED. Even when the other guy is a Mohammedan. When such persons do not adhere to the law, the law must protect the rest of us. When the other guy does act in obedience to the law, they are entitled to their views and practice even if bankrupt.

That applies within our borders. It does not and should not apply with regard to national policy toward other nations. For the most part, if a nation is doing their own thing and not affecting the U.S., we should leave them alone. If a nation is acting in a way - publicly or secretly - to harm this country, our government is REQUIRED to take the action neccessary to thwart those efforts (doctrine of vocation).

It seems likely that the nations of Europe are headed toward civil war, or just a loss of their cultural identity. That's not a great loss for Christianity, except from a historical perspective, as most Christians have left or died. Still, I prefer Secularists to Mohammedans since the former are less likely to blow me up!

My advice to European nations facing likely civil war -- take the initiative while you have the bigger boom booms, that's what Mohammedans will do. Accepting Sharia is suicide for the nation by the way.

Meanwhile back in the U.S. -- the followers of Mohammet (yes Virginia the Devil is his daddy) pose no present threat to our way of life. Americans will keep a wary eye on the liberal Muslims living here, as the Muslims who are a threat can hide in their midst.

It must be realized that wack job religion has always been here and aint goin' away! Hell we were founded by heretics and infidels of many sorts!

2010-11-09T19:00:00.001-05:00

Deaconess: noun

unemployed

a rather expensive route to the unemployment line!

2010-10-11T19:23:00.002-04:00

Well here we are...

four years from retirement as a requirement. I'm musing on the adventures the Mrs and I will pursue... of course we'll still have a teenager to raise. And decisions will be due on plans for Son the Elder's adult living arrangements.

We spend too much time chatting without any decisions being made --- but it's early, we've time.

One of the benefits to homeschooling Son the Younger - we can travel when other folks are in school. This will allow some of our adventures to pursue info on prospective homes for Son the Elder. We can also visit Nat'l Parks when the crowds are low, along with the usual tourist traps - Disney, Universal, etc. We expect to visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village next year - the history fits the young man's studies.

What does this jibbering have to with anything? Ah, well - musing is the start of planning. Much must be planned! Son the Elder won't be making his own, that's on us. Son the Younger is young enough that he's part of "retirement". I am determined to have fun with it -- though trying times are certain (there's that theology of the cross showing).

It is likely that a cross country move will be part of these changes - to meet the needs of Son the Elder. Heck (that's for you maw), might as well make it an adventure!

2010-07-14T07:24:00.003-04:00

"A tumultuous change in the life of our Synod"

notes president-elect, Rev Matthew Harrison. Well, we'll see.

I am pleased beyond words that Pastor Harrison was elected. I beleive we have been on the wrong road for some time.

My concern though, is that his job will be like catching a snowball the size of a Corolla rolling downhill. He will have to catch it and push it back up to the lofty heights of good catechesis, with an emphasis on the doctrine Scripture teaches and the Unaltered Augsburg Confession expresses.

He will have to do this without the snowball breaking. And we will expect him to be able to!

Pastor Harrison will be villified by those who thought we were on the right road -- downplaying doctrine, going for mega-church growth principles that bleach the Bible's pages white.

Pastor Harrison will be villified by his "friends" -- he won't do enough, he will act too slowly and on and on.

Oremus... let us pray... for the whole people of God that an increase in Trinitarian, Sacramental, that is to say Scriptural, faith would mark those who claim to be Church

for the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, that she would focus on the Confessions that have marked her from "birth" and boldly go forward, in that orthodox faith which has not changed.

for Rev. Matt Harrison and his family, that, in Christ Jesus, his service for the church would prosper -- in unity of doctrine and practice. And that he serve in humility and forebearance, yet without compromising the orthodox faith handed down from our Fathers and the Apostles.

Amen.

2010-06-23T10:37:00.003-04:00

A difficult subject...

long term plans for the future of Son the Elder.

It is clear that he won't be living independently. Nor will he earn a living or raise a family.

It would be easier, more comfortable, to let the matter go for as long as possible. The danger in that is that I and/or my wife might reach room temperature before resolving issues related to his care.

We resolved long ago that we would not intentionally leave our first born's future to our daughter (the Eldest) or to Son the Younger. Should my wife and I depart this life suddenly, our confidence in their ability to make sound decisions is total. It is not their responsibility though, and should not be part of their inheritance.

I have been doing some research, early stages mind you, and have determined that their are two options we should consider. One is local, the other would require him to move - which will require US to move.

One is Bethesda Lutheran Communities. Very highly regarded, well established... and across the country.

The other is the Tammy Lynn Center. Very highly regarded, reasonably well established... but without a clear tie to his faith.

That last point is perhaps inconseqential while we live -- we're only staying awhile though, then...

well, our Pastor and our congregation will be there for him until? Two or three Pastors out and another generation who does not know him (like Pharoah and Joseph?)

Besides, after I retire in a few years a move might prove a welcome adventure.

Son the Elder will be living with us for several years yet -- another post ahead on that.

We're still in preliminary stages as we think on all of this. We would rather think carefully and over considerable time than make a sudden decision after a death or our own aging kicks us in the head (that can happen after a fall).

Some interesting years are ahead, not easy, but very interesting.

2010-06-16T13:11:00.002-04:00

Today...

my wife and I celebrate our 26th wedding anniversary. So much is slipping away in our time that such a milestone is not to be taken for granted.

Even how marriage is to be defined has been stolen from God. It is true that the state has rights and responsibilities where marriage is concerned. The civil authorities do have the right to administer marriage, the foundation of family and government.

These authorities do not however have the right to change the definition of marriage. The purpose of the estate of marriage is not primarily to provide for happiness, prosperity or fulfillment. It is to be the foundation of community - again, family and government.

Thank you my dearest, I have enjoyed these years together, and hope to continue the celebration for years to come!

2010-05-03T20:03:00.002-04:00

Oh my! Where has the time gone?

I haven't posted since February!?

Well, between the pets, homeschool, camping, work --- yeah, excuses.

Truthfully, I'm sort of on hold. I don't want to be too optimistic about coming LCMS elections. On the other hand I am tired of griping about the current non-Lutheran leadership of said church body.

Perhaps that last comment seems unkind. Maybe. Truth often is.

As bad as the Synod leadership is, some of the Districts might even be said to be flirting with polytheism (like the one I'm geographically parked in) -- not that I would say such a thing!

Far be it from me to be the one to cause trouble!

2010-02-25T10:08:00.003-05:00

Finally, Lent...

probably not the most common response to the beginning of this season of repentant reflection.
And yet so important for the structure of the Christian life.

Structure? What has that to do with the Christian life? Isn't that stifling, stuffy, boring?

Yes, much, no,no, no.

Being a pain in the tush Lutheran (that means I have no patience for the "lutheran" that has no concept of what makes us distinct from others in the "christian" camp), structure is not foreign or enemy.

Structure is part of anything in human experience. It is part and parcel of God's gifts to us in the church. God recognizes our need and meets it beyond our wildest expectation.

While many despise the "organization" called church - whichever brand you despise this week - it is an organization, or perhaps an organism, created by God. This life, the Christian life, is not just me and Jesus. And while God did not institute the specific governance of his church, whether episcopal, presbytery or congregational polity, the gathering of his people is his doing.

The structure of the church year, its calendar, while not divine, is of use to us scatterbrained creatures. It serves to keep us focused. It serves to prevent fixation. In other words balanced.

Advent gave us time to wait. Wait for the incarnation. God made flesh.

We have now also celebrated Christmastide and Epiphany, celebrating the human life of God the Son.

And now Lent. Earthy. Not so frilly and fine. Notice the change in the church's music. Darker - like us! A time to contemplate our just desserts. And to be thankful, that God chose - insisted rather, to give us life in place of death.

Like Advent a time to get ready. This time not for God made flesh but for man made God-killer!

And for God made man saver. We await the darkness of Good Friday - when Atonement was made for man. Not by our own grubby hands but by... God. He made this happen so much does he love us.

Of course Good Friday would be incomplete without the proof of Easter - he is who he claimed to be.

The ritual of moving through the church year keeps us alert to the rythym. The rythym of God serving us with his gifts. Receiving the whole council of God through the seasons of the church.

2010-02-04T08:31:00.002-05:00

It seems odd to me...

that LCMS schools are training folks to be deaconesses and pastors with a tremendous shortage of places for them to serve.

Well, that's partially true. In fact there are plenty of places for them to serve - these places though, often are unable to pay the living expenses of a deaconess or pastor.

It seems even odder to me that we prepare people to be teenagersitters but not prepare them to catechize those in their charge. Not only are we not properly training our DCE's - they have less theology training than our Lutheran teachers - we don't even teach them how and why we worship the way we do. So they don't know what to lead our youth into or why! And we place our kids in their ill-equipped hands, then are surprised that these kids aren't Lutheran when they grow up!

Of course among American Lutheran church members, many aint Lutheran. Perhaps another post...

With regard to young Pastors, the answer for their placement is simple - but we are neither prepared or willing to pay for someone else's Pastor. We need to help parishes pay for Pastors if we intend to place all our candidates.

Deaconesses are a different matter. A congregation that cannot afford a Pastor is in no position to call a deaconess. A circuit or a district however can call and assign a deaconess to serve as needs require. For example in my district, which covers the real estate of several States, there are four deaconesses serving (pitiful). Should the SED care to provide for the needs of the people in its congregations the district could call deaconesses and assign circuits or smaller groups of congregations according to their needs.

It's a nice problem to have - too many church workers to place - it will turn on us though. Too many trained professional church workers without a call and students will elect to do something else. That of course will cause a shortage - round and round we go!

2010-01-28T08:53:00.003-05:00

Had to miss Symposia

at Concordia Theological Seminary this year, still a bit bummed. I hope to return next year. It's always a treat to retreat to the Sem for a bit.

The Mrs had knee surgery, the truck had a tranny transplant after the little truck had a Hemi replacement --- too much!!

As a friend said to me..."next year in Fort Wayne"

2009-12-31T09:54:00.003-05:00

On the Seventh Day of Christmas...

we celebrate the birth of Son, the Elder. It is bittersweet, as is life under the cross.

Today he is seventeen! It is amazing what we've done in those years! It is unfortunate that little has resulted from those heroic efforts.

Or is it?

As I wax theological it should be noted that we still very much hope to find a way to effect major developmental change in this young man's life.

Should we not find this way in this life...

it is NOT because we didn't pray hard enough - or believe big enough - or do enough fasting - or DO anything often or big enough!!

Son, the Elder belongs to Christ. Not because he is disabled, not because of any decision of his, not because there is no age of accountability for him.

Son, the Elder belongs to Christ because of Christ's decision. Son, the Elder belongs to Christ because of baptismal regeneration. It is on account of Baptism that this young man belongs to Christ Jesus.

Yes Virginia, there is - baptismal regeneration - "Baptism, ... now saves you" (1Pe3:21 - the missing words refer to Yahweh saving Noah through water).

There is no to DO list with the triune God. He did the doing. It is done, it is finished.

So while we tarry under the cross, we get glimpses of eternal bliss. In Baptism, in the Holy Supper, receiving the Lord's Divine Service with the elect.

It is the greatest comfort in dealing with disability to rest, knowing that there is nothing lacking that my son must do to be saved - it is done. Jesus did it in his incarnation, in life, in his atoning death. And we await the bodily resurrection at the last day. That imperishable body will be without infirmity.

Deo Gratias

Thanks be to God

2009-12-22T20:31:00.003-05:00

As Advent wanes...

and Christmas comes into view... we wrestle... flesh vs spirit... we can rest in Christ's presence... no we wrestle.. no, REST

No matter how well or poorly I prepare for Chrismastide, I will with the Angels and Shepherds rejoice!! My Lord and my God! He arrives in lowly flesh, suffers to spend his first night in a stable and sleep in a trough - a cold dark cave.

A cold dark cave will receive him again for a Sabbath rest -- you just can't get away from it. Jesus the Christ, even at his birth his death looms...

for you, for me... for the life of the world.

A happy and blessed Christmas to you!

2009-11-27T12:03:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving...

while a good idea, should not be saved for a single day of the year. As Son the Younger night say, "Deo Gratias"! Thanks be to God, should be a phrase on our lips with reckless abandon. There never cease to be much to be thankful for.

It is important though to attach a person to whom we give thanks. It is meaningles the thanks of those who are content to thank empty air. Or the Cosmic Someone. We thank God who is the only -- the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

It was noted by a coworker a couple of years ago that those facing special challenges, it seemed to him, tended to downplay the adversity and, well... be thankful. He mentioned this to me in the context of Son the Elder's disability.

Perhaps there is less of a tendency to take what we have for granted when we are constantly mindful of what is missing. Or maybe it's just a slight shift of focus that is displayed by being thankul. It could even be the old, "well it's either laugh or cry" theme that begets thankfulness.

I must say, whatever the reason, I'm thankful that I haven't hardened to God's many and varied blessings on my life and our lives.

Ah, the reason then...

it isn't me at all. It is God's manifold grace.

Revealed in Word and Sacrament.

as we say in receiving Divine Service then... Thanks be to God!!

2009-11-12T13:41:00.003-05:00

reflections on Armistice Day...

W - W - one. While the Treaty of Versailles was not signed until June of the following year, the war was effectively ended with the armistice on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, 1918.

In 1919 President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed Nov 11 a day to commemorate the end of the war. In typical fashion the United States Congress recognized the end of World War One in 1926. Several States by then had made Nov 11 a legal holiday, the federal gov't followed in 1938, declaring that Armistice Day would be celebrated to commemorate the veterans of WWI, and dedicated to "world peace"( Is that where Miss America got it from?).

Then in 1954 Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation changing the day to "Veteran's Day" -- commemorating American veterans of all wars.

For a few years your state might have had two Veteran's Days! The federal gov't decided that it should be a Monday holiday in '68 (took effect in '71). A number of states and many veteran's groups didn't think much of the decision, some states kept their state holiday on Nov 11, with the federal falling at the end of Oct or some such.

The hullaballoo did not die down - President Ford put it back on its original date, he signed in '75, it was effective in '78.

Over time Veteran's Day has come to be a day to commemorate all those who have served in our nation's military. After the national disgrace of our treatment of Vietnam vet's, it seems appropriate to remember that our servicemembers these days have voluntarily submitted to serve, for the benefit of every citizen - often at political whim, too often with their very life's blood.

2009-11-11T19:47:00.001-05:00

It's Veteran's Day...

you're welcome.

it was a privilege to serve.

Thank you to my fellow servicemen.

2009-10-27T21:02:00.003-04:00

Home, at last!!

My family and I had much to celebrate this year... I slammed into the mid-century mark in anniversaries of my birth, my wife and I celebrated a quarter century in holy matrimony, our daughter celebrated the receipt of her Bachelor's degree and Deaconess certification ( do I hear a CALL coming?!).

We decided to celebrate all of this together on a cruise of the Caribbean. Since the departure point was Miami, we also decided to spend some time in Florida as it's where my wife and I had our first permanent address together -- Miami in fact. The buddha is still watching over the pool at our first apartment ( buddha like bikini?)

Our travel trailer provided housing until cruise time - there were six of us, a wee bit cozy but we survived. Wife's brother joined us, keeping Son the Younger occupied.

We were privileged to worship at Christ Our Savior Lutheran Church in Saint Augustine on the way down. The Sunday on board we prayed Responsive Prayer 2 (LSB). We customarily use Matins for homeschool chapel -- with this group I decided that singing together was not adviseable. I had looked up the propers for the Day, it was much like a spoken setting of Matins.

There were some minor mishaps and one major one. We had to skip the Line's island due to swells, we left a bag on the carousel (FedEx to the rescue -- not too many $$) and the tranny on the truck had an argument with the transfer case an hour from home --- both will be replaced at significant cost. What the hey... life aint cheap!

All in all we enjoyed seeing new places together. Still don't get driving on the left but retaining left hand drive!! Both US and Brittish Virgin Islands.

As much as we enjoyed this adventure outside of reality --- the very best part is getting back home. Son the Elder was so happy to be back in his own bed that he went to bed early and slept like a log!

Unfortunately, I missed the timing of the trip and we were unable to join in the assembly of the saints for "Reformation Sunday". My family will do a Reformation devotion on Oct 31 --- for those of you on one of the coasts that's Reformation Day. Still, we will have missed the high church celebration that traditionally marks this day.

2009-09-11T09:31:00.003-04:00

A fork in the road...

or is that a pitchfork sticking in between my ears?

For the last couple of years I've been thinking that my congregation needs to change location. We're hard to find, hard to see from the street that erroneously carries our address, the architecture says nothing about our confession - and little about Christ.

On the other hand... what has always set us apart has been the worship. The Divine Service is what those who visit notice. Although it seems to me that through neglect that is a little less true now than it was.

The Divine Service is the thing.

The most public announcement of our confession is found in the Divine Service. Or not!

I am convinced that we need to return to a full time music director/Cantor for a cohesive music program. The folks working part time to provide music to aid and lead the Divine Service have done an admirable job, still -- it just isn't the same. The result is good, it was excellent and could be extremely excellent with a Cantor and a digital pipe organ.

While I still feel that a move would be good for our future as a parish -- at what cost? At first I was concerned primarily about the financial burden a move would create. The only conceivable way to pay the bills would involve "Open Arms"(tm) Daycare. I don't much like daycare but could live with it to pay the bills. Thinking on this has made me examine --- what would such a building look like?

Now if we were a new congregation contemplating building or continuing to rent the local funeral home --- no brainer -- build.

We on the other hand have been in a building for decades. While the architecture is mid-60's modern, it is a space dedicated to worship. It is possible too, that with some refurbishing it could do a somewhat better job of expressing our confessional standard. On the higher feast days we are a high church congregation and that works fine.

It concerns me that the cost of moving would be a loss in the way we worship. It isn't that high church worship can't be done in a multi-use building -- that's done all the time. Not by this group of Christians though. It would change us. We would be backing up.

To go forward we need to re-focus on our strong suit. The Divine Service.

Should we move? Perhaps, but only if the funding can be achieved to provide a dedicated worship space that fits the liturgical tradition to which we are accustomed.

2009-08-28T08:17:00.002-04:00

I am a child of the ALC...

yep, been keeping that quiet! I even transferred into the LCMS during the post-Seminex period before altar/pulpit fellowship was revoked.

My baptism took place in an Episcopal parish. I've got heterodox written all over me!!

The ALC (it was called the new ALC, due to some older one some other time), merged with the LCA (bleeccch from the getgo) and the AELC (LCMS traitors) to form the heterodox ELCA in '88. Ahh the good 'ole days. Of course, the heterodoxy predated the merger. ( and no, I'm not unaware that we have our own doctrinal problems -- but Dr Luther opposed violence in dealing with the heterodox -- and that's the only quick way to fix it!)

Do you remember when the late Dr Barry wrote that the ELCA was no longer (charitable of him) an orthodox Lutheran church body? I'm waiting for the current LCMS leadership to announce that the ELCA is no longer a Christian denomination, but instead a quasi-christian cult (you know, like the JW's or Mormons).

It shouldn't be long before ELCA considers the cross a falic symbol and requires artemis or ashera to balance the altar in their temples.

These people hate Christ!

2009-08-11T12:40:00.002-04:00

Uh-oh...

the kid made the papers! and so young! at least we were able to keep his name out.

Yep, Son the Younger (sugar cured Ham!) was in front of the camera as the "Liberty Belle" taxied by. A travelling museum, this B-17 visits several cities throughout the year - a compelling reminder of WWII -- its troubles and triumphs.

http://blogs.newsobserver.com/multi/aug-10-2009-flying-fortress

http://libertyfoundation.org/

2009-07-21T21:48:00.003-04:00

Well, well, well...

here we are in the midst of July. This was to be a low travel month for my family.

BAH! We began it by returning from an out of town funeral (the lady is with the Lord, we celebrate her rest).

While I stayed home with the boys, my wife flew off to Chicago to drive home with our daughter - who has finished her deaconess internship and awaits a call.

They, the lot of them, will leave me to go to New Jersey for a family reunion/picnic - I'll catch up for the picnic and the drive home. I hear there'll be booze.

What happened to my laid back about the pool mid-Summer? A reflection of life perhaps. Life is busy! I was about to say life doesn't take a vacation - precisely! vacations usually are busier than the life we leave to go on them.

It seems to me that Western Civilization - may she rest in peace - will fall much as the great Roman Empire did. After the collapse there will probably be another Dark Ages - maybe then I can get some rest!

2009-06-16T21:00:00.002-04:00

25 Years!

My wife and I celebrate 25 years of marriage today! She is to be commended!

The shelter of marriage crumbles around us for so many. I am most thankful to have a helpmeet to expand my gifts and mollify my faults!

Thank you dear lady! Thank you dear Lord!!

2009-06-05T16:29:00.003-04:00

What a week!...

a plane disintegrates over the Atlantic, David Carradine dies of a freak accident (we really didn't need to know) the Pres is all kissy kissy with the Mohammedans, the daughter attends her first CDC conference, we get a new elevator at the tower and...

we're off to Texas for another Dr visit for the firstborn -- which includes the incomprehensible fact that he hasn't had a seizure in at least two months - a big deal here!
and...I can't help it ----- what about SMP? it still makes sense to this simpleton.

My family and I will celebrate Trinity Sunday at Trinity LC, Austin, TX -- I look forward to it though I will miss my own parish.

PAX

2009-05-26T18:15:00.002-04:00

We Are Too Tolerant

One of the church's problems today is fear of giving offense. I say -- when offended, offend.

This is not retaliation, though it may sound so. When the Church makes nice with the world it is not church! And most of the places calling themselves church err in using the term.

We should make no bones about refusing to use the word church in an honorary way. The Church is that place in which the Gospel is rightly taught and the Sacraments are rightly administered. If they aint -- it aint.

Simple really! We must call a spade a spade! If it's a hoe...

2009-05-19T09:50:00.002-04:00

As our culture crumbles...

I am eager to see how Christ's bride, the Church, responds. As we find more places where we are not welcome, how will we respond?

The definition of family inherited from the church is quickly losing confidence by our hedonist culture.

Western Civilization is, as we watch, being replaced by Nihilism. The trend isn't new --- it seems to be more, how shall I say... official now. It is the repected philosophy - though not by name!

Truth!? How dare you suggest that there is a truth! Especially if I don't like "your version" of truth! There seems to be a shift though --- not just, "don't impose truth on me"' but "you have no right to suggest that there is a truth"!

Nihilism ends in despair! As Christ's bride, it behoves us to be ready with the answer to the desperation of those who have been sucked in to it.

The Truth! The Gospel. Freedom from the new paganism which infects our society.

Now if only Christ's Church would have the stones to enter the discussion without apology, without wavering from... The Truth!

2009-04-22T22:23:00.002-04:00

Earth Day...

I celebrated in several ways. I drove the 5.0 liter, the 5.7 liter, and the 6.0 liter, ahh what a beautiful sound.

The 2.0 liter, she stayed parked --- but tomorrow she'll have to get back on duty.

2009-04-17T07:22:00.005-04:00

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Son the Elder is going through puberty. WOO-HOO!

At sixteen it's late, due to three and a half years of steroids years ago. The opening scream is not because of puberty though. It isn't even because of Son the Elder.

Prejudice! That is what prompts the opening scream! My son is going through puberty -- apparently EVERYTHING is about SEX now. He sits on his hands, been doing that for a decade, but now it MUST be for sexual stimulation. He often holds his drool instead of swallowing, this started before the body changes --- now though it's about sex. When he sits on the couch, every movement is assumed to be about SEX.

Ahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!

This foolishness is coming from a professional habitation technician (hab-tech). We call her his "worker" - we tried teacher for a bit, didn't seem to fit. It's particularly frustrating coming from someone who knows the boy --- and is misreading him so terribly. While full time only for a couple of years, she's worked with him for eleven.

When I take him to the bathroom after he's been drooling, or sitting or breathing or...or... I don't see evidence for concern. When I get him up in the morning there is sometimes evidence that he's a male just getting up in the morning!

I have been paying attention to his behavior since his body has begun to change --- honestly, his body is changing but, thus far his behavior is the same.

Now, here's the rub (ok, ok, enough ) ---- even if all the concerns were to prove valid....

umm, well... what the hell am I supposed to do about it!!!

My main concern is ; are we now going to have to deal with people accusing the young man of things he cannot defend himself for? Even when evidence is lacking!

If so --- this insult will be the greatest in his life so far. And there have been plenty.

2009-04-12T22:00:00.002-04:00

Where have all the bloggers gone...

long time ago, long time ago...

generalscuttlebutt...priestmanship...

bye y'all it was fun.

2009-03-24T20:12:00.002-04:00

Christ's church deserves better...

the church body to which I belong (that is, the congregation in which I hold membership is a member of), the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod, is more business than a family centered in Christ.

Oh, you heard already?

Here's the thing --- Our Universities and Seminaries have no problem taking students money to train them for positions which they likely will not hold. That is as Pastors and deaconesses.

There are of course plenty of parishes needing Pastors and deaconesses. There are not, however, plenty of congregations which can afford to pay them.

Our synod considers parishes which cannot afford Pastors deadwood. Success is measured with worldly goals and ideals. Success can only be measured rightly in assessing a congregation's use of Word and Sacrament -- that the Word is rightly preached and the Sacraments administered according to Christ's institution.

Small congregations should merge, share a Pastor, or be subsidized so that there is a called and ordained servant of the Word to provide Word and Sacrament. Congregations should join to support deaconesses, whether pairing up, circuit wide or even district wide -- deaconesses provide acts of love and mercy in behalf of the church.

In a post Christian culture, Christ must be visible through Word and Sacrament, and by acts of mercy performed by Christ through His people. Pastors and deaconesses are a visible sign of Christ's presence in the community.

It seems to me that, by and large we disdain Christ's gifts. Word, Sacrament in His house and works of mercy in the community.

Our Pastor is God's agent to give us Christ's gifts. His Word, His presence at the table and the verbal statement that our sin is forgiven --- His Means of Grace.

Our deaconess is an agent of the church to provide acts of mercy to those in need in our congregations -- those left out due to infirmity, confinement or other inability that comes about in a fallen world. She is also an agent of the church to those outside, in a particularly visible way a
physical presence of Christ in the community.

Our congregations need these folks, and so does the world around us!

2009-03-12T14:17:00.002-04:00

The FAA,

my employer, seems to be afraid of its new employees. The FAA discontinued the time honored practice of training new air traffic controllers at lower level facilities and creating a "pipeline" to build experience -- moving from lower to higher levels during the course of one's career.

Instead, from college programs, the FAA is shipping new hires to all level facilities and getting the product they so richly deserve. The flying public deserves better though.

The method chosen to deal with this lack of experience is to create additional rules limiting the work these new folks can do for various time periods --- apparently to prove their worth. Sure, we'll certify you, for limited service.

The rest of us old farts will continue to take up the slack - or retire - in an attempt to keep a broken system flying - or walk away so we don't have to watch it crumble.

The lousy economy has kept ALOT of folks on the ground --- good thing! The system could not have handled the retirees, the training and lots of planes too!!

2009-02-25T09:45:00.005-05:00

Ash Wednesday,

is a favorite of mine. Not of course in a hoopla sort of way.

Introspection. There isn't enough of that these days. Lent as a time of penitential waiting is perfect for examining ones place in the grand scheme of things.

Ones place? "Maggot fodder that I am"(I love that quote of Luther). We live in a world of inflated worth. Not just property! Idiots who can remember a line or two and look pretty are the important ones in this mess of a culture.

Ash Wednesday lets us return. Return in peace. Return to dust. Return in peace to dust.

This mess of a culture faces -- dust. More mess!

Exactly!

Human culture is by its very - fallen - nature, a mess! Perhaps it is better, in a way, that we live in a culture which is so clearly a stinking, rotten mess. Then again, there are those who can't see the mess. Or think that we humans are on the brink of re-making the world in a new greener hue.

So, means are required to recognize the mess. Yes, Means of Grace are required! Word and Sacrament to wash and feed. To clean the mess that so often we don't notice or even (shhhh!) embrace!

Okay then, embrace the mess, the dirt, the dust. Not to wallow in - instead own it to disown it. Don't deny that truly it is yours and you should wallow in it. For Christ your God has embraced this mess of yours, of mine, that He would own it.

Embrace this Christ who by taking your stinking flesh has breathed life into dry bones.

As I worship this evening, I will embrace the dust wiped onto my head and enter the rest given in the flesh and blood received bodily.

2009-02-05T21:28:00.002-05:00

There but for the grace of God...

go I. That's what I thought when I heard of the death of Jett Travolta. What is saddest is that their hope is false, their comfort just a shadow.

I remember being especially galled when I heard a reporter question whether Jett had received appropriate supervision. It is just not possible to be on guard every moment of every day.

Recently I recalled a similar bath incident in my household. I do not know what if any other issues were faced by Jett and his family, other than a seizure disorder. Son the Elder cannot bathe himself, though he's happy to sit in the water. On a recent occasion the boys were bathing together, an arrangement neither likes much and which will have to stop soon as development is beginning for the elder brother (sometimes it's the only way to have time to read Tolkien!).

On this occasion, while I was out of the room, Son the Elder had a seizure in the tub. His younger brother kept his head above water while calling for me. The muscles can be quite strong and unnatural during a seizure - this was no easy feat for the seven year old (when I thanked him, he said, "I wouldn't let him drown, I'm not that mean.").

If Son the Younger had not been with his brother, I would have been closer if not in the bathroom. Still it gives pause. We cannot be there every second of every day! We use a baby monitor to catch overnight seizures --- this is when most of them occur --- and still he is sometimes too quiet, or we too tired to hear the occurence.

Thankfully, my hope is in Christ Jesus! In Word, in Sacrament, the Lord Jesus is there! Not a symbol -- He is there!

Soli Deo Gloria!

2009-01-20T20:39:00.002-05:00

Thank-you Sir...

whoever you are!

I'm used to southern hospitality, I got better than that though in Indiana.

My family and I were dining at Mad Anthony's - downtown Fort Wayne - this past Sunday night. We were celebrating my birthday - a day late due to travel - I was surprised that it wasn't crowded at that hour of night.

We chatted with the Pastor who signed the service that morning at Zion Lutheran Church and his family.

We were noticed by another couple dining as we guided Son the Elder safely to our chosen table, and later as I brought him to the rest room. About halfway - or a bit more - through our meal the gentleman of that couple stopped by our table and mentioned how blessed we are. I agreed.

I was moved by his visit. Apparently he was moved too. When it was time for our check to be brought the waitress notified us that the man had paid our tab!!

Thank-you sir, thank you very much!

We were just out enjoying a meal as a family, and my son Jonathan is a full fledged member of this group. I think that's what made us noticeable, it isn't easy but it's us.

I generally prefer to remain anonymous, as did this man and his wife, as he made sure we were not aware of his gift until they had left. I confess to feeling special - appreciated - at being noticed on this occasion.

Thank-you sir. Thank you for noticing our blessing and for being a blessing to us.

2009-01-06T16:46:00.009-05:00

Death hits close to home...

well, work to be precise. A young man my daughter's age is dead. Killed by a bad pun --- hit by a bus!

An empty school bus, save the driver, swerved to avoid a vehicle that ran a stop sign - afraid of the broad side, she didn't see the head on Jeep Cherokee. The driver of the Jeep, my coworker, is dead.

He leaves this world at twenty-five, having just completed training a month or so ago as an Air Traffic Control specialist. In a few months his wife will have their child.

Life is fragile. Taken for granted. We have no business assuming it will go on. But we do.

In Dr. Luther's day, death was around every corner. You couldn't take life for granted, it too often vanished before your eyes. Sometimes it still does!

I am twice the age of this young man, hoping to add as many more years as he had. I see no way to give comfort to his grieving family. I do not know if he is Christian - none of my conversation with him would suggest so.

He will be interred at Arlington National Cemetary.

I am thankful and rejoice in my Baptism. Should I unexpectedly be separated soul from body I trust my family will take comfort in anticipating our reunion at the last day.

2008-12-30T08:02:00.005-05:00

The Same as it ever was...

The headline in yesterday's paper said, "Israel Takes the Gloves Off". Israel is a nation. You know, like Germany or France ( and has about as many Mohammedans living in it as those examples).

For some reason the Palestinians took exception to being thrown out of their homes some sixty years ago. Still, Israel is a nation and has a right to protect itself, just like any other.

Some people think that Israel is different than other nations and I must confess that there is some truth to that. What other nation has a bank account that is filled by U.S. taxpayers? Oh, well you don't even have to BE a nation for that these days...

There are those that believe that the nation of Israel has God's stamp of approval - yikes! God's name is Father, Son and Holy Spirit -- He's not welcome over there. Those that worship God, the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are only wanted for tourism. Not that there are many, but ask the Christians of Bethlehem how well respected they are by the Israeli military.

That brings us to the picture above. I hate to admit that there are Veggie Tales nativities in my home - they were improved by the toys left nearby by Son the Younger. I told him that he made them more true to life - he didn't really get it.

The truth about modern Israel has nothing to with God's plan for the future. The Jews still need Messiah - Christ the Lord. Modern Judaism is nothing more than Universalism with schtick!

The true Israel, where God's chosen reside is Christ's bride, the Church!

The same as it ever was...

2008-12-14T21:15:00.002-05:00

Sweet Sixteen...

yeah whatever.

Son the Elder will be sixteen on the last day of this year. My sixteenth birthday was sort of important to me - I wasn't even four when I started pretending to drive. Ahh freedom! The automobile!

Henry Ford gave the nation, no the world, a freedom that was new and far reaching. If you're a greenie and think he is responsible for the earth's destruction --- get out of my site, you're polluting it.

I like to drive.

My son is not going to. He can't ride a tricycle, an automobile is out of the question! He can't be bothered with steering.

Does he know what he's missing? Can't be sure but... when he was about five we went to an auto show. We were able to get into many of the cars. Son the Elder sat in the drivers seat in several -- and kissed the steering wheel. Nah, he probably has no idea.

So, the upcoming birthday will not be sweet but bittersweet. It is a privelege to be his dad. While difficult to explain, he's good company -- great disposition -- that's the sweet. The bitter is in mourning yet another milestone left behind.

The theology of the cross! It hits home every day.

2008-12-04T08:41:00.006-05:00

Ablaze supports the Treasury of Daily Prayer!

No, not the prog.....movement(there goes that gurgling again), the family Advent wreath. Son the Younger, wants the little fire started enough to remind mom to do our reading. As posted earlier, daily reading at the family altar is a new tradition for us and it's easy to forget - especially when dad is working the night shift.

While I have been using the whole of the daily reading, together we've used the New Testament entry and commemorations when applicable. I expect to add a little at a time and build up. It is very nice to also have the daily office to add to my personal devotions.

Yesterday I was pleased to have the Advent propers for the daily office as we used them for chapel at Hope Lutheran home school.

My wife and I have discussed using a candle centerpiece throughout the year in the appropriate seasonal color. If this helps my son gain interest in a time of devotions at the table, that suits me fine.

2008-11-26T18:38:00.004-05:00

Giving Thanks...

It never goes out of style! In our civil religion though, I can't help but wonder... to whom is thanks being offered?

As my sins are too numerous to enumerate, I must say that my received blessings are also in the too many to count category.

It is nice knowing who it is I'm thankful to! I look to the cross --- so much has been given to this spunk rag! I really don't understand how it is that so many think they have something to offer God.

I mean so many of the folks in the quasi-christian mega corrugated steel house of Gawd. Do Do doodoo.

As Americans I guess we sometimes have trouble believing we have nothing to offer -- even to the Lord. After all we are god's gift to the world, aren't we? there could be a post in that on vocation -- perhaps another time.

On the morrow I will celebrate with family and friends the gracious gifts I enjoy, not least of which are those with whom I celebrate.

Thanks be to God!

2008-11-12T22:02:00.002-05:00

It's Time...

that is the title of Rev. Matthew Harrison's paper to the Southern Illinois District on LCMS unity and Mission.

It is a worthy goal, and Pastor Harrison's plan, The Koinonia Project ... well, um... it just might work!

What an odd idea, doctrine, that which Christ teaches in His Word, to produce unity!

While it could fail, what we've been doing for several decades has failed - miserably. If we do nothing the cracks get bigger. Our programs, it seems to me, have been worse than doing nothing. We have lost focus. Not that we don't focus --- we focus wrong!

If you're aiming to copy the heretics...

I would hope that this group will be allowed, no - demanded, to form and work through the Scriptures and the Lutheran Confessions. Further I hope that, after a time, reports of where we're at would surface. In the end, a focus on the Formula of Concord and the methodology that produced it, could well re-do what it once did.

The Lutheran Church Missouri Synod is ailing. The cure is not in structure, or program, or even a hefty infusion of cash -- The cure, as always for the body of Christ, is in Scripture. And through the lens of the Christian Confession, that is the Book of Concord of 1580.

Doctrine!! We all need to be catechized!

Now, whether or not Pastor Harrison is fired (no good deed goes unpunished) -- we as a Synod need to call him to serve as President of the LCMS.

It's Time!

2008-11-11T07:38:00.005-05:00

Family worship...

begins of course, with the larger family of Christ... with angels, archangels and all the company of heaven... it is bound together not with the blood of my fathers but instead with the blood of Christ!

ah, good, we're done then!

not exactly!!

My wife and I homeschool our boys. This is not of great academic value to son the elder, due to disability(we'll continue to work on that though). Son the younger is bright and energetic and, well, not suited to sitting still.

The boys and I pray Matins on Wednesday mornings. This is our school's chapel service. It is a chance to spend time with God's word and the boys. We use the LSB one year lectionary (Our congregation uses the 3-yr, I wasn't buying three books - and also I think the one year lectionary is more useful in developing biblical literacy; the church at large would do well to consider this in light of the deplorable culture we have made).

Over time I hope to add Vespers/Compline on an afternoon as I've seen some larger schools do. This might allow my wife to join in the festivities. I have prayed Compline or evening prayer with son the elder on occasion - we usually stick to the bedtime routine of - the Lord's Prayer, Apostle's Creed and Luther's evening prayer (both boys).

As our devotional life is something to improve with time - and maturity, we will begin using the Treasury of Daily Prayer (CPH) with the advent of... well... Advent. While it is designed to begin with Lent, it will not be at all difficult to begin on the calendar day on which Advent starts.

This compendium of devotional material, all in one volume, makes for a feast at the family altar!

We will have to develop the habit, and that will be a bit of a challenge. My shift work is not helpful as two or three nights of each week find me at work at the dinner hour. My wife and I will work out by trial and error whether she can take the helm on those nights or if lunch is the better devotional time for us when work takes me away.

I have used the Treasury already in my own morning prayers, mainly morning prayer and Matins -- and to look it over in advance of putting it to greater use.

The "plan" at present is to use the New Testament reading and the collect at table as a start. We will add the "writing" on occasion. Further increase may be considered as son the younger advances in sitting stillability.

My own morning and evening devotional time will also be affected by this work. At present I use the daily lectionary from the oldish hymnal, LW (can't call it the old hymnal - that will always be TLH!). I may return to this after a year, especially if the family will accept a longer dinner time reading(or perhaps an additional family time reading?).

As I have been using the Concordia - Reader's Edition for bedtime reading for several years, I need a break! I will embark on Walther's, God Grant It. As the year progresses, I'll add the recommended reading of the Book of Concord from the Treasury if I'm up to it.

For myself, I have sat with several books to delve into at times and enjoy that - on occasion. For the family though, the single volume is a must. The family quickly loses patience (son the younger asks a question as we read The Fellowship of the Ring, once answered, he doesn't understand the pause as I try to find the place he helped me lose -- moving from book to book -- not an option).

The family at worship, daily preparation to receive Christ's gifts with the whole community of saints on Sunday morning. I look forward to this new adventure with my family.

And I urge you to use the Treasury of Daily Prayer!

2008-10-31T07:31:00.002-04:00

it's time for a CRUSADE...

no, I do not hate Muslims --- that is to say Mohammedans. It is though, a duty of government to protect its people from those who wish them harm.

Only the liberal Muslims -- who don't know any better -- do NOT wish us harm.

Mohammedans are patient. They are in it for the long haul. Sharia law in Great Britain!! Okay, formerly great...

They're coming soon to a courthouse near you!

What better day than Reformation Day to consider a war against infidels! The Vicar of Christ may not see it that way -- works for me though.

There is no reasoning with their life hating mindset. So let's not waste time with diplomacy, they use it to strengthen themselves against us. It has to be kept in mind, Mohammedans intend to convert you -- or kill you (they'll settle for enslavement if they have to).

It's been said before -- they want to die for their "god" --- who are we to prevent them from the practice of their religion?

2008-10-09T11:27:00.005-04:00

Retirement!

We talk of that a lot where I work. About 40% of us at the tower where I work are in training - most not yet certified on any position (where they could help a little to staff the place). About 40% can retire now or in the next few months.

I'm 100 days from retirement eligibility!!

I think a lot about the doctrine of vocation. I had planned to retire and go to seminary in a year or two. That seems a bad bet to me at the moment. The sems have difficulty placing all the candidates as it is! And synod politics has worse atmosphere than the local pig farm.

In addition, my older son's benefits are tied to the county in which I live. This would be a significant loss, especially if there's no good reason to give it up!

Even if I remain at work 'till the maximum retirement age - the month in which I turn 56 - I'm a little young to take up wheel chair racing.

Of course I don't lose ALL my vocations when I leave the eff...double ayy. I will remain husband and father, as well as whatever they goad me into doing at church.

My real problem is that I don't relish taking a job at Snoopy's hot dogs to fill the time. And there's no real business that interests me. My main interest outside of family (and autos) is theology. Whether it's Scripture or the scripturally sound Confessions of the (Lutheran) church - that is where my passion can be found.

Perhaps my Pastor will be fool enough to find a use for this interest (talent would be up to the judgment of others). I have been blessed in the teaching of the High School class at Holy Christ! Lutheran Church(tm) name changed to protect...me. That still leaves too much time for Abbott and Costello on the couch.

I confess that I'm probably not accounting for all the opportunities available to me, its just that I grew up in a culture of work to attain retirement -- and I see serious flaws in that unbiblical attitude.

My thoughts here are a work in progress, and your thoughts (both of you) would be welcome!

2008-09-25T07:59:00.002-04:00

AHHH...home!

It is good to be home! We missed Divine Service this past Sunday to get home. Our flight landed in Newark and we spent the night in NJ before driving home Sunday.

Well... I guess then we haven't really been home yet!! Father Weedon's excellent paper for Concordia Seminary's Syposia (posted at http://weedon.blogspot.com ) expresses what church is - I would add, what HOME is.

It is good to be back in comfortable surroundings, returning to those things which are part of our normal routine. It will be better still -- more at home -- when we have with all the saints on earth and all the company of heaven met to receive Christ's gifts and returned our humble praise and thanks.

It is my hope that we can now be done with stem cell tourism. Time will tell what if anything has been accomplished with this medical exercise ---- much, little, a skoshe...time will tell.

2008-09-12T08:48:00.002-04:00

MORE Stem Cell Tourism...

This time, adult stem cells will be introduced spinally. The cells have a more direct route to the brain -- better and faster results.

We'll see.

It has to be understood that the stakes are high. We left the paved road a while ago and the dirt road is narrowing.

Is this a case of too much faith in man? Too little in God?
Nah.. in fact I have little to zero faith in man. That may even be part of my motivation to do all that is possible to improve my elder son's condition. At present, he cannot be placed in a group home let alone an independant living arrangement.

A recipe for abuse after my wife and I are laid to rest! And I will not teach my children that their brother is their sole responsibility absent their parents!

Too little in God?
Nah.. God doesn't promise to prevent evil men from doing their damage. It is a broken world.

Thankfully, new medical options are frequently on the horizon.

Thankfully, also, there are institutions that will care for our son with Christ's love when we cannot (i.e. Bethesda Lutheran Homes).

Before we can give up the quest, the dirt road will become a foot path which will become overgrown with thorns thistles then bushes and trees!

2008-08-22T10:00:00.002-04:00

LCMS President,

and Judah's king Manasseh --- just how close are they? I don't mean the office, I mean the current occupant. And which one is the better guy? It's a serious question!

I'm not suggesting Pres K has made his sons pass through the fire for Molech, but then again I haven't checked.

Manasseh brought strange worship practices into the house of the LORD. Not really new things, just the same old heresies ---- sounds familiar doesn't it?

Scripture says that Manasseh seduced the inhabitants of Jerusalem (NKJV) or led them astray (ESV). The similarities are striking, no?

Does this mean we're nearing another "Babylonian Captivity of the Church"? Is that a rhetorical question?

On the question of who's the better guy ---- time will tell of course, Manasseh though did humble himself and return to the LORD!

2008-08-14T19:26:00.003-04:00

Taking issue with ISSUES ETC...

Well, we can't be right all of the time. In reality, my disagreement is with Dr Robert Scheidt. He was a guest on the program back in July - STEM CELL TOURISM .

I am certain that Dr Scheidt and I would agree on a vast array of issues. Further, I suspect that he is completely correct regarding some, perhaps many, of the facilities providing stem cell treatment outside of the U.S.

Okay, it's confession time -- I am , that is my family is, guilty. Yes it's true, we are guilty of STEM CELL TOURISM.

The assumption was made that these facilities use embryonic stem cells from who knows what back alley. Since I don't know how many facilities and in which countries this treatment is offered -- I can only attest to our experiences.

We -- that is my wife -- did a great deal of research on facilities offering stem cell treatment. We found that Mexico and Costa Rica were the most prominent (now Panama and China and I'm sure several other countries are at it as well).

It should be noted that our area of interest was treatment for autism - as we contend that autism is primarily caused by environmental factors. There are many maladies for which stem cell treatment is offered -- some of which (at least ) are surely bogus.

In our research we found that the facilities (at that time Mexico and Costa Rica) were, and are using umbilical cord stem cells from North America. We chose a facility in Costa Rica after research and consideration.

There were no ethical hurdles to jump. The stem cells used are not embryonic - not from the refuse of the child killing industry.

Umbilical cord cells are adult stem cells, and they don't have the problem of embryonic cells of becoming tumors. Embryonic cells would be an issue for us -- I just added the bit about tumors as a reminder that killing kids aint OK!

The tumors also remind me of the Phillistines and their experience with the Ark of the Covenant. Why? Well, because Mary, the Ark and Mother of God made holy the womb...(maybe I think too much!)

Yesterday on Issues Etc the subject of stem cells was back and it was a very useful discussion - explaining the different types of stem cells --- this SO often is lost, especially in the media!!

So, to do a 180...thanks Issues etc... even when I take ISSUE with you...

2008-07-21T20:59:00.002-04:00

DEATH...

the enemy. Well...

Sometimes it's the lesser enemy. My mother-in-law has died. She made me a part of the family into which I married.

I miss her. Not so much the woman who died yesterday. I miss the woman I knew a few years ago. She has spent several years leaving us. Dementia -- now that's an enemy!

It's a sin sick world. Leaving it is just not always a bad thing.

She rests with our Lord. No more enemies for her. And now when in the Divine Service it is prayed "...with angels and archangels and all the company of heaven..." I will praise my Lord Christ with my mother-in-law and all the blessed dead. This she was unable to do for some time. In her blessed rest I trust she can praise her Savior and Lord while she, and I, and you, await the eschaton.

"Lord now you are letting your servant depart in peace,
according to your word;
for my eyes have seen your salvation
that you have prepared in the presence of all peoples,
a light for revelation to the gentiles,
and for glory to your people Israel." (Lk2: 29-32)

2008-07-11T17:30:00.002-04:00

I'm stealing someone else's post.... it has to be shared!

My Name Is Autism
Hello. Allow me to introduce myself to you. My name is Autism. Perhaps you know me or know of me. I am a condition, a "disorder" that affects many people. I strike at will, when and where I want. Unlike Downs Syndrome or other birth "defects," I leave no marks on those I strike. In fact, I pride myself on the ability to infiltrate a child's life, while leaving him or her strikingly handsome. Many people may not even know that I am there. They blame the child for what I cause him or her to do. I am Autism and I do as I please.I am Autism. I strike boys and girls, infants and toddlers. I find my best victims to be boys around the age of 2, but any child will do. I like children and they are always the true victims, though I take hostage the others in the child's family as well. It is a bit like getting two for the price of one. I affect one child and infect the entire family.I am Autism. I strike rich and poor alike. The rich combat me with education and therapy. The poor shut their children away and cannot afford to fight me. I am able to win in the lives of poor children more than I am of the wealthy, but I will try to take root anywhere.I am Autism. I am an equal opportunity disorder. I like whites, blacks, Mexicans, Ukrainians, Russians, Poles, Slavs, Japanese, Koreans and Fins. In fact, I strike everywhere on earth. I know no geographical bounds.I am Autism. I do not discriminate based upon religion either. I strike Jews and Christians, Muslims and Buddhists, Atheists and Agnostics, Hindus and Rastafarian's. I do not care what religion a person is or what beliefs he may hold. When I strike, there will be little time for any of that anyway. When they find me, they will question everything they believe in, so why would I strike any one group? I have affected followers of every religion on the planet.I am Autism and I am strong and getting stronger every year, every month, every day, every minute, and every second. I am concerned that money might be alloted to combat me and my takeover of children, but so far I have little to fear. Some countries, like Kuwait, are spending quite a bit of money to assist those who I have targeted and some, like the United States, would rather spend money on such ludicrous things as discovering the number of American Indians who practice voodoo, as opposed to combating me. In an atmosphere as that, I can flourish and wreck havoc at will. In places such as that, I rub my hands with glee at the problem I can cause to children, families and to the society at large.I am Autism. When I come, I come to stay. I take the dreams and hopes of every parent and trample them with glee. I see the fear and confusion in the eyes of my victims and I see the formation of wrinkles, worries and ulcers and the pain on the face of their parents. I see the embarrassment their child causes because of me and the parents unsuccessful attempt to hide their child and me. I see tears and the parents cry and feel the tears of their child. I am Autism. I leave sorrow in my wake.I am Autism. I taketh and give nothing but bewilderment and loathing in return. I take speech and learning, I take socialization and understanding. I take away "common sense" and if I am allowed to flourish, I take away all but their physical life. What I leave behind, is almost worse than death.I am Autism. I fear nothing except courage, which I thankfully see little of. I fear those who take a stand against me and attempt to fight me and bring others into the fight as well. I fear those who try to make it safe and easier for my victims in the community, and their families. I fear those who push ahead, despite the fact that I am in tow. I fear the day that I will be eradicated from the planet. Yet, I do not fear too much right now. There is no need.I am Autism and I bet you know me or know of me. If you don't, you probably will soon. I am marching forward faster than I ever have before. I am looking for new children all the time. I dread the day I will be looked on with pity, or worse yet, understanding, for that day, is the day I will begin to die. But, I don't think that will happen for a long long time though, do you? In the meantime, I prowl onward, looking to cause pain and suffering wherever I go. I have so much work to do and thankfully, no one is stopping me.Hello my name is Autism. Perhaps you know me or know of me.................................written by: Marty Murphy

Marty Murphy is an adult with Autism Spectrum Disorder who was born and raised in central Illinois. With her personal insight and presentations on autism across Illinois, Marty has made a tremendous impact on how parent, teachers and administrators look at our children's futures.

http://recoveringmatthew.blogspot.com/

Yes, I'm a thief
So is autism

2008-07-03T10:36:00.003-04:00

What's Next...?

LCMS, INC has done a great favor to those of us who confess that the Book of Concord correctly defends Biblical doctrine.

In cancelling Issues Etc the beareaucrats gave us a place to rally around. And a particularly useful one - no matter which place I live, or you, we can rally together via cyberspace!

Now we must continue to make a racket! We have got to support Issues Etc. We must support Pirate Christian Radio. That is we've got to listen. And we have to keep it financially sound with our gifts.

LCMS, INC has also made it clear by this action that it is out of touch with Biblical Christianity.If the "Jesus" you "know" isn't the Christ of the Bible, you have no message to proclaim. Another gospel is not Gospel -- yeah, the Purple Palace(tm) is Ablaze(tm) --it's the Gospel that's getting scorched!

In addition we MUST keep folks from forgetting! If the furor dies down --- the Purple Fuhrer reigns on! Instead of letting folks forget, we need to keep this snowball rolling. When the snow melts, there has to be enough water to put out a fire.

Talk up Pirate Christian Radio and Issues Etc. Play it in places where someone will hear it. Speak of our Confessions! Make some noise about Christ's Church -- Orthodox, Catholic, Evangelical -- let it be known that these words, properly understood, spell Lutheran, spell Christian!

2008-05-29T21:57:00.003-04:00

piratechristianradio.com

go there, now...

there ba- aack!!!

http://piratechristianradio.com

2008-05-27T16:29:00.002-04:00

Death

Is it a sin to welcome death?

We live in a sin sick world, and death is an enemy. Christ has conquered death on the cross and won eternal rest for us, though we still sojourn here --- the now and the not yet.

Back to the enemy --- death.

Enemies are to be fought. A fight to the death. The death of death! Again the now and the not yet! This enemy has been fought and is defeated.

The not yet does kick in and death gives a stiff kick indeed!

I don't want to die (at least not yet!). God has graciously given me sublime responsibilities, as husband and father, as a member of a parish which largely confesses what the Scriptures teach. I don't want to die -- I kind of like the idea of meeting Christ in the air without getting all gooey first. I hope to see my children's children walk with Christ.

The Lord has not given a guarantee that I'll get to check off the boxes I think matter in this life before entering that promised rest. Ahh, catch that? Where the promise is? Promised rest!!

I DO get to rest, even now, in Christ, as I receive Christ's gifts in the Divine Service - and that is a great blessing. Still the promise of rest is in the not yet, not in the now. Thank God for the moments of His rest we encounter day by day!!

There are many who do not get rest in the now. Places where martyrdom is a real possibility. Places where all is uncertain -- the homeless, the infirm, and many others.

Is it a sin to welcome death?

The martyrs did! They welcomed the honor of suffering for their Lord, who suffered for them.

My mother-in-law bids death welcome. She has late stage Alzheimer's. It isn't easy to hear her tell my wife "I want to die", "I pray every night not to wake up tomorrow" and similar comments. These comments are not due to faithlessness. They are due to human frailty, weakness, a constant state of being confused (that is she no longer knows where she is or in what time).

This faithful woman can no longer explain what she believes. She wants the Lord to take her, she knows that. And why shouldn't she? She knows her Lord, sometimes EVERYONE else is a stranger! She longs for rest. That promised rest!

It seems odd to look forward to death, but afterall she has looked forward to so much else in life -- raised in a Christian home, raising her kids in Christ, praying for her grandkids... she has looked forward to and experienced much. And now she looks forward to that promised rest.

Soon she will enter rest. She eats little, drinks little - it won't be long. Lord Jesus Christ, take this your sister in your arms and hold her as she enters your rest!

2008-04-24T17:31:00.002-04:00

Pope Gerruh the First,

the first Pope from the state of Texas! His ascendancy is marked by disdain for the Confessions that marked the church he was elected to head -- the Misery Cyanide(tm) [stolen from the rt rev Gen Scuttlebutt]{thanks too to extreme theology}.

It would seem he despises the Lord's Christ, instead of Mariolotry though, the "$" will be embossed on his all too belated coffin....

ok, the smoke hasn't risen from the chimney yet -- still, where it's ablaze(tm), there's smoke!

2008-04-16T14:58:00.002-04:00

My Daughter's Internship...

drumroll please (as my youngest son would say)...
She will stay in Illinois -- go West young lady -- about twenty miles, to Money Mag's #2 pick for the best place to live in these United States. Naperville affords some great opportunities for her. I'm sure that the congregation in which she will serve, Bethany Lutheran Church, will teach her a great deal. Perhaps they too will learn from her a little about living in America as a Confessional Lutheran.

I know little about this parish but am confident in the congregation and my daughter that this will be a beautiful friendship.

Congratulations Valerie!
Congratulations Bethany Lutheran Church!

2008-04-11T08:39:00.002-04:00

Here we are in Chicago ...

our daughter is getting ready to receive her deaconess internship --- looked like London for a day! But alas, other plans are afoot. Tomorrow we'll know... this waiting thing gets OLD.

The boys, my wife and I have been seeing some sights. Some we've seen on previous trips, others were new to us this trip. The Shedd Aquarium is a favorite of the Mrs. New to us was the Naper Settlement (Naperville, IL), my favorite.

I learned that Illinois has had toll roads since the 1830's!! Driving around here this week leads to the conclusion that they breed like rabbits -- toll roads.

Our youngest son's favorite is the Enchanted Castle arcade and indoor mini-golf, ahh culture! (in Lombard)

The firstborn (not the oldest - there's a riddle in there somewhere) just likes riding around in the car - he did tire of getting in and out in the pouring rain though.

The oldest's, paternal, biological grandfather will be here for the big news. I wonder what he'll think of Matins (as he's from an American Arminian Revivalist background).

This weekend will be the highlight of our trip, the reason for being here. The Deaconess intern placement service, which will consist of Matins. After the dismissal we'll adjourn to a reception at which the placements will be announced. The student Deaconesses seem to believe that worship shouldn't be interrupted by announcements, Hmmmm!

Matins Saturday, Divine Service (The Mass, Common Service, LSB setting 3) Sunday (Apostle's LC, Melrose Park)-- such a feast! The weekend will end for us with Portillos hotdogs for lunch, then we hit the road, Louisville,KY on Sunday and home to North Carolina on Monday.

2008-04-01T17:27:00.000-04:00

LCMS President Kieschnick speaks out!

or perhaps it was just breaking wind. http://bringbackissues.blogspot.com/2008/03/pres-kieschnick-responds-to-wsj-article.html
it isn't always easy to tell which orifice is responsible for unintelligable gurgling!

Theological midgets are running the joint!

Thank you Mollie for getting the "Issue" out of the backyard and into the mainstream. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120667366412170875.html?mod=taste_primary_hs

2008-03-26T13:41:00.000-04:00

Issues, Etc.

We need it! It explores areas of common interest among Christians, as well as those particular to Confessional Lutherans.
It boldly proclaims Christ crucified!
At present the LCMS is not able, it would seem, to recognize productive evangelism -- glitz is the order of the day. While unintentional, glitz will edge out Christ as focus, given half a chance.

I believe the current efforts to bring "Issues" back are on target -- with or without the LCMS. I do believe it is better for Issues to return to KFUO - better for the synod and better for Lutherans. It will, though, free the program from any possibility of pressure (and accountability?) if it is forced to continue as an independant entity.

2008-03-20T13:30:00.001-04:00

Issues Etc...

I'll add my limited thoughts after the Triduum. At present I'm awed by what God has given us in Christ Jesus.
Also I am thankful that I will be able to worship this day, Maundy Thursday and also throughout the days comprising the Triduum in my parish. Maundy Thursday runs into Good Friday and into the Vigil of Easter -- then Easter morn.
I am amazed that God would deign to lift me out of the mire I cultivated...
He does this even when I am not awed, thankful, or amazed.

2008-03-08T12:10:00.000-05:00

A Good Time for a Move?

I'm not alone in thinking it's time for my congregation to park on a different set of lat and longs. There must be half a dozen of us!

I say let's leave the mid-sixties modern A-frame to some protestants and build something -- something that says, "this aint papaw's methobapticostal revival hut".

It seems the synod, and certainly the district in which I reside, prefers to franchise. Better dividends? Hey, how about this you folks at the purple palace - Revival Hut!(tm)

And now back to our story...

We are marginalized by our architecture, by our district's bad theology, and by a bad political movement (push already!) in our synod.

A representative of our district even told us that a new congregation in our own area would draw more visitors just because of its newness! He assured us that no such thing would be endorsed by the district of course!

Our congregation is already in its worship and practice dealing with the above"bad"s at district and synod.

The newness is an issue yet to be addressed. Normally, newness is not an end to be sought. Newness though, is at present an opportunity to get the attention that newness, well, gets. At the same time allowing our parish to deal with the issues of an aging facility and developing a facility that presents our Lutheran, that is Confessional, identity in its very structure!

As a parish we are at a crossroads -- or soon will be. We are in an affluent neighborhood in the South with little interest in Lutheranism. We ARE centrally located though --- most of our members travel to us. We don't want to lose that centrality!

We are a little hard to get to, an issue in favor of moving. The district likes us where we are -- out of the way!! Another plus for moving.

The downsides? Money. Whether we move and build anew, or suck it up and build on the ruins of our current well located facility --- very expensive!

And... we are at home here. Been here a long time... it is hard to pull up stakes and move.

Still, we NEED to move. If we do not, the evangelicals at district have won. Oh sure it'll take twenty years or so for our demise --- them folks are patient, as long as we sit tight.

If we go for it -- we'll scare those folks! They will be blindsided. Another win out of a surprise attack.

Several daughter congregations have developed from our parish. They all walk with district. We walk with Christ, his Word - as the Lutheran (Christian) Confessions declare this faith.

We are remiss if we don't provide a home for the remnant!

2008-02-22T17:13:00.000-05:00

Is it Texas?

or is there some other reason I see a clown suit whenever I see the President of the United States or the President of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod?

What else am I to think? Executive branch policies are beyond Pluto (once a planet) and synodical programs won't even permit the Christian Book of Concord in the room as a doorstop!

The parousia has GOT to be soon -- REAL SOON!!!

2008-02-20T17:34:00.000-05:00

Castro Resigns...

Big whoop!!

It doesn't get me excited, really. After all, Castro's failed policies aren't likely to be radically changed. The failed policies of the U.S. toward Cuba are also unlikely to be dramatically changed, at least not this year!

2008-01-28T15:58:00.000-05:00

Sexagesima...

The parable of the sower is the Gospel for this week in the one year lectionary.

When the LORD makes seed bring forth and sprout...watch out! God's seed is of course the Word. When the Lord issues his word, it cannot but do. It is God's creative Word!

We know the pericope well. Some seed hits the road and blows away - or gets stomped. Some falls on rock and has no where to grow. Some starts well, but gets choked in the thornbushes with which it began to grow... and then,

there's some...

that falls into good soil and...

Let's consider Paul in the Epistle lesson, 2 Corinthians 11:19-12:9, wouldn't you like to be good soil?

The Word of the Lord shall accomplish that which He purposed (Is 55:10-13). It doesn't fail when we fail to be good soil. When we are good soil -again- WATCH OUT!

Our brother Paul boasts in the passage before us. Boasts of being good soil. He doesn't boast of being a comfort or being comforted. He boasts of being a patch of dirt - a patch of good soil tended by the Lord.

The lashes, beatings, stoning, shipwreck, exposure -- weakness!

Huh! Weakness makes for good soil? Why of course it does!

Not soil fortified with roots and rocks and paving -- pure soil with nothing in it - weak, so you could run your finger or hand right through it. Nothing in it to hinder such an effort.

Now rocky soil, or soil with thornbushes or paving in it -- is in no position to filter, clean, purify itself.

For soil to be good, it will need work -- the work of a gardener. After all, the soil isn't anything special due to its own effort. Someone outside the soil makes good soil of it.

On your own, you too have rocks and roots and such -- just rotten soil you are. There's nothing you can do about it. You're just a pile of dead dirt (dust you are and...).

Once made good soil...watch out... remember our brother, Paul? Good works are inevitable! Good soil, holding fast the word with honest and good heart - bears fruit!

It cannot be otherwise, faith works. This Christianity is just not safe! It really isn't, spoiled though we are in this age and place.

Works then ARE neccessary! Indeed we MUST do good works, whether it's the keeping of our commitments or just the simple outgrowth of living faith - we serve, it's what we do. We MUST.

And yet all this work and other unsafe activity of Paul's, and ours --- all nothing really. Nothing, REALLY.

Christ's work -- now that IS something, really. The work of Christ, God dying for us lot! God bleeding and oozing -- for you, for me!

A little water with the WORD, now that's a recipe for good soil!

2008-01-26T16:20:00.000-05:00

I'm sick and tired...

it took fouteen hours to get from Chicago to the hacienda. Chicago was a sidetrip out of Fort Wayne - dropped off a kid to play in the absent snow.

Upon arrival -- I had chills. At home. Now the Symposia was most enjoyable -- but no, the chills were due to fever. Fortunately we got home before the fever hit.

My wife had it by next day, the boys a few days later. It is now a week ago. We are still fighting this off.

During my absense from productive work, I've had the pleasure of seeing several movies with my six year old (he flew home from the land of snowless cold - oh, there's snow now!)

We've seen all manner of films, Ratatouille, North By Northwest, World Trade Center... and all manner of conversations to go with them.

I'm sick and tired, but it has been a great week!

2008-01-15T21:27:00.000-05:00

A Mighty FORTress...

bad pun. Here we are at "the Fort" for Syposia. I'm waxing theological - but that's not important right now.

I will try to provide longer, more meaty posts when I get back home (if I can avoid the constabulary on the return trip).

For now though...

My wife and I are going to the symposia banquet. We have children. The six year old needs a sitter. If our situation were normal, the fifteen year old would do this for us. As it is, the six year old probably could handle keeping himself and his brother safe - not the other way 'round as one might expect.

Hmmmm... do you see a legal problem brewing?

Not to worry, we have arranged for someone to be a sitter (I won't say baby - we don't have one).

We have been blessed! Our vicar's wife vouched for a student deaconess here at CTS. I assume she vouched for us to her as well. This young lady has experience with our son's disability - Autism - and that doesn't scare her!

Truth is, if she has experience with autism, Jonathan will be easy to take care of for a bit.

Did you wonder if there was a point? Ok, ok - here it is.

Shouldn't I be nervous about entrusting my young to someone I don't know? I haven't a care about this - and I do get a little nervous about this kind of thing!

Well - there is our vicar's wife, and the head of the deaconess program here, and her experience, and what I tend to believe is a motivator for one training to be a deaconess (as is my daughter).

That all probably plays into my comFORT, there's more than that though. Realizing that a pastor, deaconess, or teacher may disappoint in terms of sin - I feel a comaraderie with this young woman whom I haven't met. She is my sister in Christ and has a desire to help my family.

Thank you, dear sister! (I look forward to meeting you with my elder son tomorrow)

2008-01-11T10:11:00.000-05:00

The Historic Lectionary,

that is the one year church lectionary. I have begun using it at home for family devotions.

As is common, my parish uses the three year lectionary, as found in LSB.

For now, we are just reading the pericopes on Sunday evenings. As the family becomes more used to my new obsession, I hope to add discussion of the texts.

Much to my surprise, a fairly large portion of the year's readings are the same -- A,B,C and 1yr.

Perhaps I've not payed enough attention in the past - I thought no more than half a dozen weeks would share the pericopes. This surprise is a good one since I'm becoming convinced that it is never wise to follow Rome (whether it is the 3 yr lection or Marian Blue at Advent).

I even got the family to add to my library at Christmas the LSB one year lectionary. I'm pretty comfortable with the ESV, so I don't even have to look up the lessons. Still it is a bit of a challenge adding a new family tradition. We'll keep working at it, making the "family altar" a reality in our home.

Forgive my thinking out loud - or online as it were - I'm thinking of gradually adding a re-read of a lesson for discussion on different evenings. Due to my shift work, there is no plan here to make this an every night event. The more the better though.

Hmmm... as this develops, the catechism could also be added to the mix..."as the head of the household should teach his children..."

2008-01-11T10:07:00.000-05:00

With humble thanks, this blog has received an Aardie!

http://aardvarkalley.blogspot.com/2005/10/golden-aardvark-aaward.html

2007-12-24T17:48:00.000-05:00

Tiny Tim was right...

he was right to hope that the folks in church with him would notice him and thereby think of the one who came making the blind see and lame walk.

I didn't keep our tradition of reading "A Christmas Carol" this year due in part to our travels abroad.

I have though, watched two versions. My favorite is with Patrick Stewart as Scrooge, and in second place is "A Muppet Christmas Carol".

In both of these is the scene mentioned above. I do, I must confess, think of my Jonathan when I see Tim (the fictional character - not the"real" Tiny Tim of Tulip fame).

Folks are so cynical today though. And in America's NOW mentality I wonder if the effect is different when Jonathan goes to church each week than that which Tim hoped for.

In Dicken's day perhaps Christ could be seen in (or through) the infirm. Today I fear that it only brings a sense of failure - God's failure to do the right thing.

Has God failed my son. Well, today we find out. As Advent gives way to Christmas and we shift to singing in a major key -- all the stops out --- God has come, in flesh to dwell among us.

No, God has not failed. Not my son, not me, not you. Look at the child in the manger. Look at the child whose infirmity He came to make whole! Yours and mine and Jonathan's.

God bless us every one!

2007-12-22T22:46:00.000-05:00

Luther at the Movies: Oh My Lutherans . . .

Herr Doktor, we will miss you.

2007-12-17T20:55:00.000-05:00

Smells like Jersey!

New Jersey that is. Their current idiot governor has ordered that young children be given the Thimerasol laden flu shot!

Heil Corzine!

2007-12-06T12:49:00.000-05:00

Hola from Costa Rica...

can't find any Lutherans. I've seen Christmas trees, even Christmas tree farms. A Baptist church, a Methodist church, a mega TV psuedo church. I have seen the presence of the Romans --- everywhere. Where are the Confessional Evangelicals?

My family prayed Matins Sunday. Later we played the sermon from our congregation via internet. I have since read another 1st advent sermon - thanks Pr Beisel.

Jonathan was put under to put a line in, I was concerned about his wake up - this has been a problem at times in the past. He woke up fine. His brother wanted to know why he wasn't talking as he woke from sedation --- he hadn't even received stem cells yet. We've since had a talk about expectations --- we'll have another once home.

The receipt of cells takes just a few minutes. Today we just hung out at the aparthotel -- if we had done that all week I'd be stir crazy by now.

It has been interesting seeing this beautiful - and very different - country. We had to come all this way, we ought to learn something while here. The people of Costa Rica have been wonderful -- working hard to communicate with us!

Driving has been um, interesting. The highest speed limit is 90kph (about 55mph).Our deisel Montero has been great - a little big for some situations.

The Roman's obscure Christ at times --- I must say though that His presence is seen in many places about the country. More clearly - in some ways - than in our own. Don't misunderstand, I have learned to appreciate much at home in the U.S. -- amplified by being away!

Well, in a few minutes we head out to receive a little bit of liquid and a few cells --- which reminds me of the healing liquid and a few bread cells that I so much missed this week. The truth is I'd have missed them at the service which we would have attended at home. Still it makes a difference that it is available to me there --- not here. But the medicine Jonathan needs is here, not there.

Soon we will be home - to receive Christ's gifts.

2007-11-19T08:58:00.000-05:00

Thanks a heap...

thanks for enumerable debt, disability, stress, Uncle Sham, a bad temper, and probably body odor.

I will give You thanks with all my heart;
I will sing praises to You before the gods. Ps 138 v1.

Thanks be to God for His idescribeable gift 2 Cor 9:15 NASB

Even when I start whining, God gives! In Word and Sacrament I am given more than any lord or king can offer. It seems so inconsequential --- a bit of bread, a sip of wine, the words spoken out of Scripture.

In the Divine Service I rest in the presence of the Triune God and of all the saints - with them I am fed and strengthened for this life and eternity!

Though not a sacred day, our nation's observance of a day to give thanks is a good oportunity to reflect on God's good gifts.

Thanks be to God indeed!

2007-11-01T09:41:00.000-04:00

Child Care becomes idolatry,

at what point? Our son, Jonathan is disabled - I've mentioned that before. My family has been greatly affected by this little fact.

We have been to physicians and therapists in many states -- North Carolina, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Idaho and Texas. And we are about to become international in our quest for health...San Jose, Costa Rica! (have disability, will travel!)

This quest has been financially ruinous (slight exaggeration - for the moment). And yes I expect the government to participate in the cost of all this, being convinced that gov't vaccine policy is the primary cause...perhaps another post.

The international trip is for placenta/umbilical cord stem cell therapy. Looks promising - the Mrs is posting on the adventure at http://theadventuresofjonathan.blogspot.com/

Vocationally, as a parent, it seems appropriate to do everything in our power to "fix" the kid entrusted to our care. At some point we will need to face the fact that "enough is enough". What is that point?

Idolatry - living for the cure. It can become, in essence, worshipping the child affected. Or worshipping the therapies, or worshipping the adventure itself -as hideous as that sounds.

Balance is tough for fallen man. My life is not balanced. Yours isn't either. In dealing with a child's disability -it's a bit like war. Losing the war seems a fate worse than death. And yet, lose we may! At first we make the assumption that we can't lose, it's just a matter of finding the solution. Later we continue the search, fearing a negative outcome.

Resignation to the disability is an enemy as much as the enemy. And yet we know that the day of resignation looms. When do we quit the fight though? Quit too soon and you may miss an oportunity too correct, or at least improve the condition. Too late and, well, you may die leaving living arrangements for the disabled to someone else. Who do you give that authority to?

So long as new advances keep showing up, it seems too soon to quit the fight.

Idolatry? We haven't crossed the line as yet. At least I don't think so.

2007-10-17T10:35:00.000-04:00

Cross theology

is a constant comfort in difficult situations. I grew up in a church (allegedly lutheran) which had fallen into the name and claim trap. Perhaps some folks think that God is into S&M!, or maybe wants the church to be a dominatrix! (add 1 part OT and 2 parts name&claim...)

When God acts in this fallen, sin-sick fruit salad, sometimes you get pits.

The comfort in that is that when life aint rosy, we should not feel that we have failed. Of course we have failed - daily and much. Still, our Lord Christ comforts us in our misery with the means He has appointed. Word and Sacrament - medicine for a sin sick life!

2007-10-04T13:24:00.000-04:00

STEM CELLS...

are little understood. They also offer treatment hope for a seemingly endless list of ailments. This list includes Autism Spectrum Disorder.

One of the misconceptions deals with how one gets their dose of stem cells- easy as an IV!

Another confuses the issue of murdered baby tissue - embryonic stem cells, with stem cells derived from placenta and umbilical cord. Placenta/cord cells are waste unless used for stem cell research/therapy.

Of course stem cell therapy is new and not yet FDA approved.

So we are preparing to go to Costa Rica. The Mrs. is getting all ready with her own blog to document our adventure. It sure would be nice to reverse the effects of the poison injected into our son - keep ya' posted

2007-10-03T14:14:00.002-04:00

And a big, big welcome...

to my wife upon entering the blogging world. While I've been lax of late it is my intention to present a theological point of reference to dealing with a child with disabilities.

"She who must be obeyed", is presenting a log of the adventure with our son, Jonathan.

2007-08-22T17:10:00.000-04:00

They Gather...

our youth, the LCMS National Youth Gathering. And I hear that for a change there was actually Law and Gospel. So, all is fixed, right?

Well, no, not really! You see, the way Lutherans worship, reflects its theology. The LCMS National Youth Gathering conducts its worship in another way - strange fire, like the sons of Aaron.

Let's "excite" our youth so that when they return to the parish they're bored spitless and filled with a longing for hemlock tainted cotton candy - sounds fun no?

Or we could get them so caught up in the current that they can't grasp the now and the not yet that is the life of the Church!

Such is the LCMS National Youth Gathering.

2007-08-20T09:51:00.001-04:00

Cowchips!

Yes, I say, cowchips!

The business model is poo. The entity I work for, health care, the local congregation for crying out loud -- is dying to follow the business model. Hell, business is dying, following the business model!

Dying I say!

Especially the local congregation should avoid allowing itself to be viewed from a business perspective. The local parish is a family -- this aspect of congregational life is imperative! The lack of congregation as the family of Christ is its death knell!

2007-08-11T19:57:00.000-04:00

It has been a privilege

to have our oldest daughter's youngest sister with us this week (got that?). She too had been in foster care with us once upon a time - and so I claim her too as a daughter. She, "T", has been blessed, adopted into a family that loves her. She is also blessed to serve in a Christian congregation - she is loved there too, and knows her Savior who gave himself for her.

Ah but what fodder for trouble!! As I must respect those with parental authority over her, and I do indeed respect them - I must constantly bite my tongue. I say to myself, "self, would that she knew the proper distinction between law and gospel!"(really, I do!) "If only she could grasp the theology of the cross", "oh that she could see why the historic liturgy is imperative to a correct christology", and such like.

It is my hope that one day she, and many others caught in American evengelicalism, will see the weakness in contemporary Arminianism, and entertainment as worship.

I have enjoyed "T"'s visit with us, and hope we see her again soon. I cannot help but hope that as she becomes an adult in a couple of years she will ask to understand the differences between our Christian communions. Whether she does or not, I will rejoice in her being known by Christ, "T"'s Lord and God!

2007-08-02T10:07:00.000-04:00

The Theology of the Cross,

always a favorite subject of mine as my mother-in-law deals with Alzheimer's and my first born suffers from mercury poisoning (vaccine related).

So many things in this life confront us with the theology of the cross. It seems odd to me that so many just don't get it, chasing instead after glory. I suppose the current pop culture's me, me, me, now, now, now, attitude has something to do with it. This is not a new issue though.

I know better, still I find myself thinking that if only we could get the message out
and keep the message straight (remember that tag line?), Americans would get Confessional Lutheranism, fixing much of what is wrong with American Christianity. Then I wake up and realize that this message isn't straight among us -- let alone around us!

2007-07-19T20:44:00.000-04:00

Be Healed!

The arm is well. After four weeks, the arm is whole. "J" has worn a sling lo these four weeks with nary a complaint. Honestly, I thought he'd fight for that arm when it felt better. He did start using the hand in the sling some.

My biggest fear was that there would be another severe seizure before the arm had healed. He did have three or so -- not a bad one over night though, that is what concerned me -- a repeat of the one that broke the arm while healing.

It seems to me that folks who adhere to the Lutheran Confessions in the LCMS are suffering some wounds too -- healing will take more than four weeks of these wounds though!!

2007-07-18T18:06:00.000-04:00

What is...longeyemoose?

Well, how to begin. The picture says it all. Some years ago I was tagged with a nickname - Moose. For those who might not recall, I am an air traffic controller. The nickname was appended when I was a wee trainee. I was working a flight of B-52's thru my airspace. The flight unintentionally separated and I didn't notice, the result -- confusion. I was confused, the aircraft were confused and two other control facilities were confused as the lead went where I sent them (change of frequency) and the wingman, confused, called another facility to figure out where they should be -- confusing them!

The callsign, or name of that flight was MOOSE52. A coworker decided I had made a name for myself - MOOSE. Without my help the name followed me to my next facility.

Although I don't hear it much anymore, in my profession some have given a nickname to the piece of equipment in the picture. That equipment is used to extend ones vision in the control tower. So, binoculars are "longeyes".

It is my hope to extend the vision of those who read this blog, to better understand issues related to raising a child disabled with Autism Spectrum Disorder -- and to extend an awareness of how the Lutheran view of things, the Theology of the Cross, plays into that understanding.

2007-07-04T09:13:00.000-04:00

It's Independence Day!

In the U.S.A. one can rise from low beginnings like a rebellious step-child to a prince among men.

Not surprising really - - that's what this nation did.

2007-07-04T07:34:00.001-04:00

Bones break...

we learned last week. I would have bet that our younger, "C", would have been the bone breaker - I've seen that one dive onto the kitchen tile floor. But alas, no, "J" broke his arm!

"J", with ASD and seizures managed a clean break on his upper right arm. Fortunately, he's left handed.

The hard part for us (in terms of guilt) is that it took us 30 hours to learn what the injury was. About 4a.m. he had a seizure - it threw him on the floor. This is not uncommon. There have been hundreds of them (conservative estimate), tossing him on the floor.

We realized midday there was an issue with the arm, we assumed soft tissue as we've seen before. By evening it was obvious that things were worse not better, so the next a.m. we toddled off to the doc. X-ray showed the clean break an inch or so from the socket! It stayed in line, no cast, no splint (couldn't anyway) -- just a sling.

Tomorrow we x-ray again to check progress.

We use a baby monitor to keep an eye on things when he goes to bed. Even with that I barely heard the seizure - almost didn't bother getting up to check. How could this have caused a break, we aren't aware of any bone issues...? Lots of questions, not a lot of answers!

I should be used to that -- it's been that way for fourteen years. Lots of questions, not a lot of answers.

With thanks I note this: he is a baptized child of God! In the now he is a new creation in Christ Jesus! Not yet do we see him whole. The eyes of faith know it is so

2007-06-15T22:19:00.000-04:00

The National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program...

Has heard it's first Autism related case this week. Media coverage thus far has suggested that the parents are pitted against science ---- it's been spread like manure.

Much is at stake. Many of these kids will need care of some sort for their whole lives. There is reason to believe that drug companies knew but were not interested in making changes - knew that mercury was a dangerous additive. Rocket science that!

Dr. Luther felt that government should protect its citizens. In spite of my American tendency to want do do all on my own ( theological consequences to "American Christianity"?) My son needs more than I can do for him.

I confess, my family does receive much help --- it wont matter when I'm dust though --- he'll need more than the programs he currently receives.

2007-06-04T08:49:00.000-04:00

LCMS is going to convene...

can anything good come out of that! I sure hope so. I tend to be an optimist, but am a little uneasy at the moment.

It is interesting to me that we seem to be at the highest and lowest point in the history of American Lutheranism -- at the same time!!

To wax philosophical, could it be any other way? If all was calm among us, we'd be in a practically comatose state. The Confessions would sit collecting dust, the historic liturgy would be a dry biscuit rather than the grand feast in which God enfleshed among us himself feeds us, the sacraments would seem no more than symbol (and obstacle) -- as so many think them...

Come to think of it, one of my favorite sayings applies. BAD CATECHESIS

Yes indeed, due to poor catechesis generations of Lutherans (including many of the present one)have left the confessions on someone else's shelf. The result has been a low view of the liturgy and the sacraments.

Grab onto the Holy Spirit say they, don't get hung up on the physical. In my younger days I tried that -- hard to hold onto a breath!

GOOD CATECHESIS, however is difficult. It's hard work for Pastor and unpopular. Why if we focus on that stuff in the old catechism we might just stand out - like a sore thumb - on the landscape of American Chritianity.

HMMM! Ahhhh! Is that not why this church body came into existance? Indeed it is! That we would stand out. That the Word would be rightly preached and the Sacraments rightly administered. And so, while shaky, I can't let my optimism subside -- we are needed, this peculiar brand of Christianity that is orthodox, catholic, evangelical.

2007-05-12T20:32:00.000-04:00

Oyy Vey!...

I began to blog, well in order to post a comment elsewhere. Even before that comment was written though, my intent was to blog about issues related to raising a disabled child -- from the perspective of a confessional Lutheran.

HUH! What is distinctive about raising a disabled child from a confessional Lutheran perspective? Much in every respect!

That is how it is that in the midst of "J"'s issues - I could declare that indeed he too is a sinner.

Did you know that a hot bath has a laxative effect? I did! I was reminded tonight. So, bath was converted to shower, I finished getting the lad to bed, washed the tub and bathed th younger boy!

Had to vent!

2007-05-07T21:42:00.000-04:00

On the Road Again...

I flew to Chicago the other day to catch up with my daughter and drive home with her. The next day we spent twelve and a half hours watching the road go by -- it sure was good to get home!

In other news, my son "J" will be confirmed in a few weeks. It remains difficult to explain, I am confident he is ready. For him it really is of little consequence, he has been communing (early communion is practiced in our parish - perhaps not early enough, another time...) and is not likely to vote should there be a vacancy (early voting for the holy office - a stupid idea -- again, another time...)

And further, the younger son, "C", wants a dog. Grandma, living with us, detests dogs. She's the missus mom --- we'll be getting a dog. Research is required though. We need an animal that can travel with us. My favorite breed, dobie is a bit much to travel with, and might think the five year old is named "Kibble".

The missus is busy. Keeping grandma looking sane - keeping "J"'s worker working - keeping "J" in Summer one piece jammies(quite a feat!) - keeping "C", well, channeling his energy. Keeping the house running, visiting with "V", just home from college. She's also making me look good, it appears that I know what's going on around here as she keeps me informed. She also helps me find whatever it is I just misplaced..... she's busy!

Me, I'm at work telling pilots where to go (in a nice way I mean). I've just completed six years in offices at church and am getting a break. None too soon -- with folks retiring in droves and work schedules being affected, being able to get to meetings is becoming a challenge!

Ah well, theology of the cross comes to mind. And really I've got it good in ways beyond my knowing -- yes I know I'm babbling, get over it -- I'll be coherent next time

2007-04-17T22:23:00.000-04:00

The Lutherans are Coming, the Lutherans are Coming!!

Well ---- they're certainly out there anyway!
I was greatly encouraged as my family and I traveled that it was not terribly difficult to find congregations of the Unaltered Augsburg Confession among the ranks of LCMS parishes. I confess that searching the web and making phone calls made up some of my preparation for the trip.

Many thanks to the folks of Faith Lutheran Church, Plano TX, Apostles Lutheran Church, Melrose Park, IL, Our Savior LC, north Chicago, IL and Zion LC, Bensenville, IL for the oportunity to receive Christ's gifts in their midst through Holy Week!

It was odd being away from home during these most holy days -- and a great blessing finding God's people wherever we went. Blessing and pleasure -- many, many thanks!

2007-04-16T16:46:00.000-04:00

Alleluia! He is Risen!

He is risen indeed!

Back from travels -- will be posting very soon

2007-02-28T15:41:00.000-05:00

Lent is ruined...

well damged at least. Too busy! Construction is still not complete for mom-in-law's rooms, daily hyperbaric oxygen treatment for "J", reading lessons for younger son... and on and on.

In addition my family and I will travel - twice - before and during Easter. First to NJ/PA for a family visit and an appointment for "J". Then home for a week before we head out to TX for a Dr. visit("J") and then to Chicago, Il, to visit our collegiate daughter for Easter.

While I'll enjoy the trip, it is odd to be away from home for Easter --- we'll be visiting Dallas on Palm Sunday and Chicago during Holy Week.

I hope to make time for reflection and hope you will as well - on the fact of our utter depravity -and just how much we are given Good Friday through Easter Sunday.

Celebrate Lent, our ruin and our reclamation in Christ!

2007-02-05T21:16:00.000-05:00

Perhaps the Office -

of the Holy Ministry would be better served by someone with fewer links in their chain. I've thought of this often - still I am dogged by interest in serving in this office.

The chain? The encumbrances of life, we all have them. Not all of us have the same ones of course.

The links with the most weight revolve around "J", no surprise I imagine. He is blessed with help from the State in which we live(North Carolina).Which binds us to it -- in this case to the County in which we reside (Johnston County). If we move to another County --- we start over waiting for someone to die so we can take their spot (disturbing but true).

The help he receives ranges from technicians who work with him, attempting therapies and strategies to help him function, to equipment (wheel chair for long days out - and when he must stay put, i.e. church functions) and prescriptions. Prescriptions alone add up quickly.

Plenty of other links add to this chain. As if more were needed to make the case.

Still I am drawn to the Office. I am wondering though if it is to serve or to enjoy my favorite pastime - being immersed in God's Word. While it is normally a good thing to desire to study Scripture there is a good deal more to the OHM. It is also possible, for me easy even, to neglect my vocation of husband, of father, of Air Traffic Controller (break abuse) to hide, to luxuriate in God's Word.

The interest remains though. After all, I am eligible to retire at an early age (50)-- and find serving in the Ministry appealing and perhaps useful. While the clergy shortage seems contrived -- there are many congregations that will remain without Pastors due to the inability to afford a full time wage. And Pastors too must eat --- maybe their children too.

Their are other things open to me upon leaving government service, perhaps less taxing on the family. Our Lord will take care of his church whatever my role in it.

This seesaw is getting tiresome --- for me and those who listen to me jabber on...

2007-01-22T08:34:00.000-05:00

Questions...

I have been asked some great questions about my elder son, "J", with regard to Confirmation. It is not likely that my answers will be great -- but here goes.

J's communications are difficult to cipher -- I was asked if he had expressed an interest in communing. That is difficult to answer. At the rail do his actions mean "I want that" or "Come on let's get out of here"? Or even, "I'm starving, I want to eat too".

Does it matter? I'm an advocate of early communion. The earlier the better. My present musings would suggest Confirmation at age seven or so -- while the kids still care to please and learn.

The Eucharist is God's act, so a minimum age is arbitrary. Scripture provides no minimum age .

The congregation in which I serve has an early communion policy -- started some years ago, allowing 5th graders to receive instruction for communing prior to that magic confirmation day.J has already communed under this program. He is not communing at the present time due to a "Specific Carbohydrate Diet" -- no wheat among other things.

Back to the question. I can't be sure if he is all that interested in spiritual things. I hope he is. Since he can't tell me he is not -- I'll give him the benefit of the doubt. Many of his peers in confirmation class would be somewhere else if allowed, they will still be confirmed -- I see no reason to assume he is less interested than they!

2007-01-22T08:21:00.000-05:00

I am ecstatic at the receipt of the coveted AARDIE!

I would like to thank... you know who you are

2007-01-10T15:58:00.000-05:00

Confirmation for the disabled...

that is the question. More of a statement really. Tonight my son and I will return to Confirmation class, following Christmas break (my 14 year old, not the precocious 5 yr old -- though I'm up for that argument too).

Our Pastor desires that the lad be confirmed with his peers. I think this a commendable attitude and am supporting it. The child, "J", is not able to answer questions or read aloud - as the other students are doing. The Autism Spectrum is broad and J is not on a particularly capable place on the continuum (for discussion's sake I'm speaking in accord with our society's expectations).

J, in the estimation of his parents and those who work with him - understands, though not expressed in ways we commonly recognize. He and I have read the Small Catechism at least annually for the past six or seven years. I am confident that he gets it -- I cannot prove it.

Pastor is willing to give us, that is him, the benefit of the doubt. I am trying to brainstorm a method of testing that will demonstrate his understanding. This is possible with word cards or picture cards -- it will be tough to boil down the catechism in a form that will lend itself to this method.

Understand that I'm not interested in proving that he can identify the Commandments, the Creed, Baptism,the Lord's Supper -- but to show understanding of the significance, the doctrine that his peers are expected to express.

In part I would like him to "publicly" affirm - in some fashion( camcorder?). Also, I'm certain that the information is already in there -- unfortunately his condition prevents him from telling us what he knows.

I'm not a big fan of Confirmation, it is however part of our polity. I confess, I want J to live as "normal" as possible. You know though - our Lord Christ has arranged for better than normal! In Baptism -- he is Christ's! A young man for the ages, he marches forward for the Eucharist and is in the now and the not yet -- no less than I and the rest of the communion of saints.

Thanks be to God