Notes from the Pastor…
Last week was a wonderful week of sacred spaces and services.
On Wednesday, many First Christian Church attendees joined with their brothers and sisters of other traditions for the first community Holy Week service held at J Bar J Country Church. There we acknowledged our personal likeness to Judas and petitioned God for deliverance from ourselves.
Thursday involved two Maundy Thursday services for many and at both we were challenged to live up to the “new” commandment of Jesus in John 13 – “Love one another.” At the evening service, we practiced our love by washing our fellow disciples’ hands. My spirit was moved as my hands were washed by Jack McNeill in the spirit of care, acceptance, service, and love. I am sure those who experienced this practice would say the same of not only those who washed their hands, but also those whose hands they washed.
“Good” Friday was good! At 6 p.m. many gathered to remember the passion of the Christ – a passion that bids us confession and provides us with healing. It was Isaiah who said of the Messiah, that “by his stripes we are healed.” I was overwhelmed at the number who came to be anointed with oil. Some came for physical healing, others emotional or relational, and still others spiritual. No matter the reason, many came, and I found myself tearing up, thinking just as Jesus wept over Jerusalem, so too Jesus is weeping over our hurts and needs.
Following the Good Friday service our church embarked on a 24-hour prayer vigil. I have heard people testify that they felt they were in a sacred space no matter if they prayed in the prayer room, the prayer garden, or the sanctuary.All of this led up to the feast of Easter Sunday. It was quite a crowd of friends, family, and neighbors who gathered to worship, pray, commune, and celebrate resurrection!
As we start the season after Easter, the benediction of Sunday continues in my heart: May you experience resurrection in this life and the life to come – for Christ is risen. May a resurrection perspective bring you purpose and meaning – for Christ is risen. And May grace and peace be yours in abundance – for Christ is risen. Amen.
Grace, Pastor Ryan
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Be Prepared!
Notes from the Pastor…
I am writing this article on the Tuesday morning before Easter; also known as Great Tuesday. While I know that some readers will not receive this article until later in the week, I feel pressed to share some of my thoughts of this Holy Tuesday of Holy Week.
There is a fancy, five syllable word in philosophy that describes beliefs in the last things, or the last days, or the final destruction, or what happens when we die. That word is eschatology. Eschatology is gravely important, because an individual’s eschatology, whether Christian or nonChristian, greatly affects his or her behaviors and life choices.
One text that is emphasized on Great Tuesday is Matthew 25:1-13, the parable of the ten bridesmaids. Most scholars argue that this parable is a teaching of Jesus about eschatology. Five of the bridesmaids are prepared for the delay of the bridegroom, and five only bring enough supplies for what is customary. No matter the interpretation, the application seems clear – “Be prepared!”
During Holy Week, preparation seems to take on secular connotations. We prepare for Easter Sunday lunch, and we prepare for Easter egg hunts. These things are not bad; they are fun, exciting traditions for the family. Yet sometimes in the middle of those preparations we neglect to prepare our hearts for the depth of spiritual activities we celebrate on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. Therefore, this Holy Week let us be prepared!
Let us take moments of silence as opportunities to practice meditation. Let us notice the Spirit of God in our daily labor. And let us prepare our hearts and minds for ever challenging death and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus the Christ!
Grace,
Pastor Ryan
I am writing this article on the Tuesday morning before Easter; also known as Great Tuesday. While I know that some readers will not receive this article until later in the week, I feel pressed to share some of my thoughts of this Holy Tuesday of Holy Week.
There is a fancy, five syllable word in philosophy that describes beliefs in the last things, or the last days, or the final destruction, or what happens when we die. That word is eschatology. Eschatology is gravely important, because an individual’s eschatology, whether Christian or nonChristian, greatly affects his or her behaviors and life choices.
One text that is emphasized on Great Tuesday is Matthew 25:1-13, the parable of the ten bridesmaids. Most scholars argue that this parable is a teaching of Jesus about eschatology. Five of the bridesmaids are prepared for the delay of the bridegroom, and five only bring enough supplies for what is customary. No matter the interpretation, the application seems clear – “Be prepared!”
During Holy Week, preparation seems to take on secular connotations. We prepare for Easter Sunday lunch, and we prepare for Easter egg hunts. These things are not bad; they are fun, exciting traditions for the family. Yet sometimes in the middle of those preparations we neglect to prepare our hearts for the depth of spiritual activities we celebrate on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter Sunday. Therefore, this Holy Week let us be prepared!
Let us take moments of silence as opportunities to practice meditation. Let us notice the Spirit of God in our daily labor. And let us prepare our hearts and minds for ever challenging death and resurrection of our Savior, Jesus the Christ!
Grace,
Pastor Ryan
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Father, can you hear me?
Have you seen the movie, Diary of a Mad Black Woman? If you haven't seen it, don't let the title scare you. Trust me, the title was well chosen. I have yet to watch this movie without crying. It is not a sappy love story or a heart breaking tear-jerker; it is one of the most incredible depictions of forgiveness and resurrection I have ever seen. The video link below will take you to my favorite part of the movie: a young soloist is allowed to sing with the church choir for the first time, an abused woman trades revenge for love, an abusive paraplegic STANDS and recognizes he needs Christ - up to this point in the song I am deeply moved and then the tears come - a drug-addicted mother returns to her family entering the church and the song in true gospel fashion with these words, "Just as I am, I'm in need of the blood of the Lamb... it's me Lord, I know I can't do this by myself, I surrender all!"
Resurrection.
Jesus' ministry before his death and after and to this day is about resurrection. We cannot be saved from ourselves unless we stand and recognize Christ, call out to him and surrender all. Click the video link below for a truly inspirational church experience. Can you imagine if church - the whole Church - were this alive and honest?
Resurrection.
Jesus' ministry before his death and after and to this day is about resurrection. We cannot be saved from ourselves unless we stand and recognize Christ, call out to him and surrender all. Click the video link below for a truly inspirational church experience. Can you imagine if church - the whole Church - were this alive and honest?
Isn't that beautiful?
May your experience of holy week and Easter Sunday be filled with the light of resurrection, recognition, surrender, and grace.
May your experience of holy week and Easter Sunday be filled with the light of resurrection, recognition, surrender, and grace.
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Holy Week
Notes from the Pastor…
Holy Week is upon us! This coming Sunday is Palm Sunday – the day the Savior showed up! Following Palm Sunday, the first three days of the week continue in the Lenten spirit of preparation.
Maundy Thursday is the first mid-week special service. The English word “Maundy” is derived from the Latin mandatum, the first word of the phrase: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). It is on Maundy Thursday that we recommit ourselves to love our Christian brothers and sisters, and we practice our love by washing one another’s hands and partaking in the one cup of the Lord’s Supper.
Good Friday is the celebration and remembrance of Jesus’ death upon the cross. It is quite ironic that we title this day as “good”, considering all aspects of the day seem anything but good. Nevertheless, it is “good” because “He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins; he was beaten so we could be whole, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). On this most holy of days, we recognize the deep love of God, which is most displayed in Christ’s torture and death, and the deep rebellion of humanity; most displayed in the disciple’s abandonment and the crowd’s condemnation. In light of these revelations we practice repentance and all who are ill are encouraged to come forward to be anointed with oil. It is by Jesus’ wounds that we are healed – healed from sickness, despair, emotional pain, and darkened thoughts.
Continuing in the spirit of Good Friday, the Elders of FCC Ruidoso are sponsoring a 24-hour prayer vigil. Anyone can sign up for a 30-minute time slot; committing yourself to pray for the individual, the congregation, the community, and the world. Please consider making this a part of your Lenten season and Easter weekend.
Traditionally, the celebration of Easter begins at sundown on Saturday. Jesus is in the grave, but the miraculous is about to ensue. It is on Easter that we recognize "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55)
It is because of Jesus’ resurrection that we have great hope and believe that neither physical death, nor emotional death have the final victory. This Holy Week, may we prepare for the Easter hope. May we join in Christ’s love and love one another. May we seek forgiveness and find faith for healing. May we pray for resurrection in ourselves and our neighbors.
Grace,
Pastor Ryan
Holy Week is upon us! This coming Sunday is Palm Sunday – the day the Savior showed up! Following Palm Sunday, the first three days of the week continue in the Lenten spirit of preparation.
Maundy Thursday is the first mid-week special service. The English word “Maundy” is derived from the Latin mandatum, the first word of the phrase: “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you” (John 13:34). It is on Maundy Thursday that we recommit ourselves to love our Christian brothers and sisters, and we practice our love by washing one another’s hands and partaking in the one cup of the Lord’s Supper.
Good Friday is the celebration and remembrance of Jesus’ death upon the cross. It is quite ironic that we title this day as “good”, considering all aspects of the day seem anything but good. Nevertheless, it is “good” because “He was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins; he was beaten so we could be whole, and by his wounds we are healed” (Isaiah 53:5). On this most holy of days, we recognize the deep love of God, which is most displayed in Christ’s torture and death, and the deep rebellion of humanity; most displayed in the disciple’s abandonment and the crowd’s condemnation. In light of these revelations we practice repentance and all who are ill are encouraged to come forward to be anointed with oil. It is by Jesus’ wounds that we are healed – healed from sickness, despair, emotional pain, and darkened thoughts.
Continuing in the spirit of Good Friday, the Elders of FCC Ruidoso are sponsoring a 24-hour prayer vigil. Anyone can sign up for a 30-minute time slot; committing yourself to pray for the individual, the congregation, the community, and the world. Please consider making this a part of your Lenten season and Easter weekend.
Traditionally, the celebration of Easter begins at sundown on Saturday. Jesus is in the grave, but the miraculous is about to ensue. It is on Easter that we recognize "Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (1 Corinthians 15:55)
It is because of Jesus’ resurrection that we have great hope and believe that neither physical death, nor emotional death have the final victory. This Holy Week, may we prepare for the Easter hope. May we join in Christ’s love and love one another. May we seek forgiveness and find faith for healing. May we pray for resurrection in ourselves and our neighbors.
Grace,
Pastor Ryan
Friday, April 8, 2011
Tougher laws against human trafficking in final stages for Texas
The following information is copied and pasted from this website. The enlarged and bolded print is my personal addition in order to draw as much attention as possible to the quote. A huge thank you to the law makers who believe this is necessary!
Tougher laws against human trafficking
in final stages for Texas
A new bill proposed by Senator Van de Putte, D-San Antonio, is in the final stages of becoming law. The last stage of Senate Bill 24 which passed in Congress, the House and is moving on to Gov. Rick Perry for his signature. If the bill becomes law it will be a loud and clear message that Texas does not tolerate slavery.
What the bill will mean for Texas. Tougher law around domestic sex trafficking and compelling prostitution. Accountability for people that benefit from trafficking which would include third parties who profit from trafficking. Mandatory for traffickers to register as sex offender. Terminating the parental rights if the parent trafficked their child.
The bill was co-sponsored by Rep. Thompson who has filed HB 7 that will help end human trafficking in Texas. This bill is in the beginning stages and would establish punishment, and certain criminal and civil consequences of offenses related to the trafficking of persons and protections for victims of those offenses.
Gov. Rick Perry released a statement April 7 "Human trafficking is a deplorable and growing practice in Texas and across the nation. I commend Sen. Van de Putte and Rep. Thompson for their continued work on this issue, and applaud the House and Senate for passing this measure, which sends a strong message that we will not tolerate human trafficking in Texas. I look forward to seeing this important legislation reach my desk, and hope HB 3000 and SB 1436, which increase penalties for those who participate in this insidious activity, will soon follow."
Gov. Rick Perry has given a positive response to SB 24 and it seems that Texas will be one of the more progressive states in the fight against human trafficking. Putting this bill into law will be a major victory in the fight against slavery. A study done by Dallas Women's Foundation revealed that 250 under-age girls were trafficked in one month in North Texas. Hopefully, new laws in the state of Texas will be a deterrent and protect children from this horrible form of trafficking.
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Still is God’s hand that leadeth me
Notes from the Pastor…
I am amazed that fire can be both frightening and comforting. When in the back country, and especially when alone in the wilderness, fire can bring a sense of security; a sense of safety. Paradoxically, when the winds howl and a spark hits dry timber, fire can be like a hungry dragon devouring everything in its path.
For those who were in the path of the White Fire, please know there are many prayers offered on your behalf. I was surprised to find out that Sharon Watkins, the President and General Minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), knew of the Ruidoso fire and lifted us up in prayer. When I talked to a friend of First Christian Church, Charlotte Lord, she expressed gratitude for all of our prayers, because it seemed that
Jesus himself kept the fire at bay from her home and horses.
Nevertheless, we know there are others who suffered great loss to property and structure. Tangibly, First Christian Church in the coming days and weeks will join with other faith communities discovering ways we can show compassion to those who lost much. If you know of an unmet need, please inform the church office; likewise, we will keep you abreast of any community efforts.
The emergency personnel assigned to the White Fire are quite optimistic; however, they expressed to the public: “contained” and “extinguished” are two different things. Therefore, let us pray for those fighting the fire —
May the Good Shepherd protect them, even though they work in the valley fraught with danger. Let us pray for those who suffered loss — May the Good Shepherd lead them beside the still waters of peace and restore their souls.
This week, let us take to our lips the “Prayer Hymn” that rang through our sanctuary on Sunday:
He leadeth me: O Blessed thought!
O words with heavenly comfort fraught!
Whatever I do, wherever I be,
Still is God’s hand that leadeth me.
Grace,
Pastor Ryan
I am amazed that fire can be both frightening and comforting. When in the back country, and especially when alone in the wilderness, fire can bring a sense of security; a sense of safety. Paradoxically, when the winds howl and a spark hits dry timber, fire can be like a hungry dragon devouring everything in its path.
For those who were in the path of the White Fire, please know there are many prayers offered on your behalf. I was surprised to find out that Sharon Watkins, the President and General Minister of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), knew of the Ruidoso fire and lifted us up in prayer. When I talked to a friend of First Christian Church, Charlotte Lord, she expressed gratitude for all of our prayers, because it seemed that
Jesus himself kept the fire at bay from her home and horses.
Nevertheless, we know there are others who suffered great loss to property and structure. Tangibly, First Christian Church in the coming days and weeks will join with other faith communities discovering ways we can show compassion to those who lost much. If you know of an unmet need, please inform the church office; likewise, we will keep you abreast of any community efforts.
The emergency personnel assigned to the White Fire are quite optimistic; however, they expressed to the public: “contained” and “extinguished” are two different things. Therefore, let us pray for those fighting the fire —
May the Good Shepherd protect them, even though they work in the valley fraught with danger. Let us pray for those who suffered loss — May the Good Shepherd lead them beside the still waters of peace and restore their souls.
This week, let us take to our lips the “Prayer Hymn” that rang through our sanctuary on Sunday:
He leadeth me: O Blessed thought!
O words with heavenly comfort fraught!
Whatever I do, wherever I be,
Still is God’s hand that leadeth me.
Grace,
Pastor Ryan
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
Fire, Family, and a Birthday
On Sunday, April 3rd we packed our bag of essentials and prepared to evacuate. A wild fire ignited and, due to an incredibly windy day and drought conditions following a dry winter, rapidly spread through Ruidoso Proper into Ruidoso Downs near the racetrack and on East. Fire fighting and forest services from all over New Mexico have come to aid in relief efforts; we are so thankful for the help and that no human lives have been lost. Please pray for what has been lost: 5 homes, several barns and sheds, over 10,000 acres of land, and sadly one horse. We appreciate the prayers and concerns for our family. Our home and church are safe. From what I have seen Ruidoso is a beautiful town. Yes by scenery, but I mean by people. We heard from people all day Sunday offering help to anyone who may need it. One lady offered her spare bedroom for evacuees as soon as she knew her house was safe. Restaurants donated food to the designated shelter. And prayers were offered for our town literally from all over the country (thanks to communication via facebook).
Sunday was a frazzled day for me. The winds were constantly changing direction so no one knew which direction the fire would blow next. I waited for news all day. Will we need to evacuate? waiting. Will my house still be standing tomorrow? waiting. Should I be loading my car with everything I can get me hands on? waiting. Am I too worried about "things"? waiting. I know these are all earthly possessions but if I don't use this waiting time to pack what I can, am I a fool?
Frazzled.
Monday, my husband wished me happy birthday and we looked around our home. It's still here. We're still here. Thank God! Let me clarify the God part. We prayed and asked others to pray but I don't think God listened to our prayers any more than he did to those who lost homes/property and more. I know God is here by the beauty of response. The people anxious to help each other, the hospitality offered to the displaced, and the great desire for our community to draw together for relief, aid, and compassion.
I am often confused by prayer, but I believe in the God I pray to. I also believe that more often than not, God answers prayers in ways we cannot expect or imagine. My new prayer for our town is that we would be unified through the fear we all shared on Sunday, unified through the relief most of us feel outside the literal line of fire, unified through compassion for our town folk returning to ashes. In unity, may we see Jesus. In unity, may we help rebuild, not just property but lives.
Ruidoso, we love you. I could not be more thankful for my family, my church, and my town. Realizing what you have and not loosing it, may be the best birthday present of all time. I now begin 26 thankfully aware.
Sunday was a frazzled day for me. The winds were constantly changing direction so no one knew which direction the fire would blow next. I waited for news all day. Will we need to evacuate? waiting. Will my house still be standing tomorrow? waiting. Should I be loading my car with everything I can get me hands on? waiting. Am I too worried about "things"? waiting. I know these are all earthly possessions but if I don't use this waiting time to pack what I can, am I a fool?
Frazzled.
Monday, my husband wished me happy birthday and we looked around our home. It's still here. We're still here. Thank God! Let me clarify the God part. We prayed and asked others to pray but I don't think God listened to our prayers any more than he did to those who lost homes/property and more. I know God is here by the beauty of response. The people anxious to help each other, the hospitality offered to the displaced, and the great desire for our community to draw together for relief, aid, and compassion.
I am often confused by prayer, but I believe in the God I pray to. I also believe that more often than not, God answers prayers in ways we cannot expect or imagine. My new prayer for our town is that we would be unified through the fear we all shared on Sunday, unified through the relief most of us feel outside the literal line of fire, unified through compassion for our town folk returning to ashes. In unity, may we see Jesus. In unity, may we help rebuild, not just property but lives.
Ruidoso, we love you. I could not be more thankful for my family, my church, and my town. Realizing what you have and not loosing it, may be the best birthday present of all time. I now begin 26 thankfully aware.
Friday, April 1, 2011
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