Community Built

State of the Christian Union

2012-01-24T17:15:00.000-05:00

I've found it quite interesting lately, as the election season shifts into high gear, concerning the dialogue my fellow Christians choose to engage in, the reasoning behind their support of specific candidates, and their general belief on the "true" State of the Union.

Again and again the conversation I hear returns to the social concerns of today's American society - Marriage, Abortion, Social Welfare, Family Values, Broadcast Decency, Ethics.
This is often coupled with a sound-bite driven summary of fiscal issues - Overspending, Earmarks, Taxation, Economic Inequality, International Support, National Debt, Job Creation, Recession, Trade Agreements.
With a smattering of ethical issues - Campaign Financing, Career Politicians, Cronyism, Lobbyist Interest, Pork Barrel Spending, Party (Dis-)Loyalty, Redistricting.

On the eve of the President's State of the Union address tonight, I offer my own insight if you choose to care. So I guess you could call the rest of this rather lengthy post my...

"State of the Christian Union"

These are all very valuable topics for discussion that need to be addressed through informed and respectful dialogue. I argue that we must not focus on the legislation or a political solution but on a "soul-ution." We must make this a matter of salvation not of legislation. Doing so we can understand how to address complex, urgent issues of government including finances, ethics, and national defense.

In fact, in doing some self examination I have begun to believe that I would have a hard time ever being elected to office. (Aside from not being independently wealthy and unable to finance such a campaign of my own) I have accepted that I tend to be, what some would call, a moderate independent when it comes to my political affiliation. I think my views on government finances and oversight paired with my concern for conservative social values would not garner me many votes on ethical issues alone, especially from my closest Christian family and non-Christian co-workers.

This has caused me to profoundly question why that would be? Why would a fellow christian ever support me for an office? What platform would I campaign on? Then an even deeper question arose, what should be the political conversation for Christians?

I think that after 232 years since the ratification of the Constitution, and long before, Christians have wrestled with the proper role of religion for our governing leaders. We appear to continue to be divided between finding a good national political leader and a good Christian. It seems these are often mutually exclusive because of our own political expectations.

We often look to these leaders to be steadfast, to never change, to never compromise and we label that conviction. I will discuss this later but I fundamentally disagree with the concept that a good Christian leader does not change. If they do not change, they do not learn. If they do not fail, they do not grow. If they do not understand the true essence of compromise, how can they ever build a spirit of unity or make any progress? (See Forbes article on Failed Executive Habits for a good example)

It also seems to me that too often we are looking towards legislation to shape and define our country, to "save" our country as some have said. To many Christians, the social concerns of today are dangerously and irreparably close to impacting our country's future. As a result, they look to enact or preserve legislation that prevents or criminalizes certain activities. However, I argue that addressing these social issues through legislation does not make our culture a Christian one, it does not lead to cultural revival. We must remember that legislation does not save souls and we, as Christian, are called to be servants and soul winners first and citizens last.

The fundamental issue is a soul issue. The state of our society isn't a result of us having laws that are more permissive, secular, or tolerant. Our society is suffering from a heart condition of the spiritual kind and until we as Christians can stop focusing on the legislation and start focusing on the salvation of those around us we will never see true revival or change in our society. Our government is a reflection of the people - disengaged, dependent, and discouraged. If we hope to see America regain it's old glory, hope and respect within the domestic and international community we must work to turn hearts to the One who made America that way.

We have failed in our political conversation. We have been captured by vain philosophies of politics and debate and have lost the dignity of our calling. The abortion rate, marriage rate, domestic violence rate, drug use, and public assistance rates are all directly related to health of the family. Our churches are failing to build strong families in the current day and age. We have to get intentional about our work. We cannot rely on Sunday's and Wednesdays to sustain families. We cannot look to Pastors and Deacons alone to counsel and support our families. We cannot wait until a couple is separated to try and intervene (or tolerate the "taking of sides"). The most important ministry in a church has to be the ministry to families, hands down. Without it, churches will fail, society will crumble, America will lose all favor. Research has shown that how much you make has a greater impact on preventing divorce than being involved in a church. This has to change, there is no losing or coming up short here if we want to see America remain a Christian nation.

This can no longer be a Red vs Blue, Tea vs Occupy, Conservative vs Liberal debate. We have to make this a salvation conversation. Just as we don't expect a stranger to love your family, we cannot expect unsaved and spiritually lost to live, govern, or vote like Christians either. I'm not calling for an authoritarian government where political leaders must act and live like Christians, rather I'm calling upon Christians to act and live like authentic Christians and accept their first call and turn to their first love.

I call for a revival, a wildfire of the Holy Spirit to spread in hearts and minds of believers and unbelievers.

Start with prayer.
Pray continually, for those hurting and those rejoicing.

A Healthy Body
Pray for the body of Christ, pray that we are healed with a common cause under a common banner of revival. Pray for a unified effort, one of truth, righteousness, hope, and love. Pray for those who have turned away, who are blind and have forgotten their sins forgiven and cannot see afar off. Pray for thanksgiving, rejoicing in the blessing and gifts of our Father, his mercy, his grace, his providential and omnipotent hand upon us.
God-lead Leadership
Pray for our current political leadership, their wisdom, their peace, their love of God. Pray for our spiritual leaders that they are protected and guided by God, encouraged and surrounded by a hedge of caring believers, their families blessed with patience, understanding, and love.

Start with the Bible. Read, study, meditate, learn.

Be Ready
As Daniel and the young captives of Israel, we must put ourselves wholly to learning of the one we serve. We must be ready to lead, to govern, to minister as the princes and rulers of the King of Kings. But before we can govern others, we must learn to rule our own souls. How can I be changed or improved if I don't know anything is lacking?
Be Challenged
Our country continues to turn to the scriptures for comfort and encouragement in times of despair but not for correction. I cannot slight anyone because I know my own struggles with spiritual growth and repentance. I would choose to taste of the sweet honey of the word than drink the bitter tea of my convictions.
Be Sharpened
Challenge and sharpen one another in the Bible, we must train as any athlete or champion to prepare for the race and calling ahead. Without this training we will come up short every time. We must look to new training practices, new approaches, new techniques to make us ready to answer anyone on the reason for the hope within us.
Be Current
Athletes are constantly looking for tools, techniques that will give them the edge in their training and we must be doing the same. We must take advantage of this modern age of technology and information to spread the gospel farther, faster, broader than any other time in history.

Start with the church. Share, listen, love, encourage, uplift, humble, and forgive. We cannot move if we continue to draw lines and divisions, build up comforting barriers, dig our heels into illusions of tradition.

A Strong Body We must learn to live as a body, learn to disagree and move on, learn to find agreement and capitalize on it, build on our strengths and strengthen our weaknesses. For far to long we have let ourselves get in the way of ourselves and the work God has planned for us. We have to get our own house in order before we can expect our nation to do so. If we have a hard time budgeting for a year and conducting business together how do we expect 300 million Americans to come together to secure our future? This starts with communication and structure. We need to start communicating and stop avoiding conflict. Our avoidance of the conflicts have created much more strife and bitterness than ever needs to be within the body of Christ. A relationship that has not worked through conflict at some point is like a ship's hull that has not been tried before it launched, as soon as a storm arises, it breaks apart. We cannot be afraid to ask the tough questions, have the tough conversations, and know that the relationship we have in Christ is greater then our struggles, it is greater then our conflict.
A Connected Body
We must work together, the body of Christ is not divided by cities and we must learn to embrace others outside of our walls and learn from them. We must sharpen our skills both from within our local fellowships and from outside of them. This is how we strengthen the joints that Christ connects and supplies. Without those connections we cannot hope to see the gospel spread if we continue to contain it within our own comfortable circles. We must be bold and speak in the synagogues as Paul did, we must go to the people, we must seek them out and bring them into the fold. (Join the God Bless America Crusade - Hampton, VA, Feb1-3)
A Growing Body
First-time visitors and new converts should not be a surprise to our churches but expected at every gathering. We must prepare for growth, position ourselves to be overflowing with new believers. What is the capacity of your church and are you ready to grow? What is your growth plan? Are you praying and preparing for when God will provide an answer?

Ultimately our conversation has to change. This can no longer be about the politics of the day, because they will continue to exist as long as we fail to fulfill our first calling and commission: 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen. (Matt 28:19-20)

Will you take up my challenge and change our conversation and turn to our first love and first calling. God has promised results, we need to do our part: 14 If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. (2 Chr 7:14)

The Right People or The Best Planning

2011-12-29T17:00:00.000-05:00

2011 Day Of Caring (Hampton, VA)

I had the privilege a couple of months ago to participate in a one-day housing rehab blitz that rallied over 200 volunteers to spruce up over 25 homes in a 5 block radius, in less than 8 hours. I was blessed with working as the on-site logistics coordinator for the event (I was given this task less than 1 week before the event). Regardless of communication and logistical challenges that this project faced early on, the event was a relative success: several residents received a much needed hand, volunteers we able to give to their community, the local housing stock receive a touch up, and the community benefited from a sense of care and concern during tough times. I learned a very valuable lesson from this project that serves as a continual reminder for how we do community building. I realized that good planning means little when you have great people involved. I could have planned and prepared for most challenges, had plans B through Z lined up, but without motivated and passionate people fueling the initiative, it would grind to a halt.

Good planning serves an important purpose: to be prepared for issues, barriers, or challenges and enabling us to capitalize our assets in overcoming them. However, great people are the key to moving any good plan forward. Great people overcome challenges and can give of themselves beyond your expectations. Instead of watching the clock they monitor progress. These are the people that see challenging times as a time to support and thrive rather than a time to simply survive.

Many accomplished authors have tried to unlock the secrets to building a great team of such people, so I won't even attempt to start. However, I have experienced, in the last few years, the real and tangible power of social capital in moving projects forward. Social capital, in a nutshell, is the intangible currency that we trade through our relationships, a sort of relational spending money. To me social capital is the currency that is used to motivate, compel, inspire, or even guilt others into action. When social capital is used well, it serves as the conductor of win-win solutions and partnerships. When dealt through malice or ignorance, it corrodes the structure of the relationship, often leading to guilt, regret, or mistrust. I admit that the mastering of using social capital eludes me as it seems some are natural wielders of it, whereas, others, such as I, have to develop their skills in applying it appropriately. (see Romans 12 - especially verse 20)

I believe we need to reconsider the power of people over planning and social capital over financial reserves. Each are important in any organization in their proper place, but focusing on developing great people will lead to greater returns on any investment.

Essential Community Involvement (Part 2)

2011-11-29T17:04:00.000-05:00

As I said in my last post, community building is simple... well...at least, it should be. My neighbor was working on installing a privacy fence last week and it serves as an excellent example for something I am learning lately. Now before you run and tell my neighbor that I'm opposed to privacy fences, I'm not (especially when they are done well), but fences can be well intended with unintended consequences. However, fences represent somewhat contrasting concepts that are both essential and dangerous to communities...Limitations & Comfort.

Fences are curious things as they can beautifully define a neighborhood, create a very decorative border to a yard, and guide guests through ornate entrances, thus creating a clear sense of place. Their designs are as unique as the homes and properties they encompass. I must admit I've always admired the field stone walls built by highland farmers as they cleared their fields for crops. The way they organically flow along the ridges and valleys as if they almost grew there over the centuries. Made from the earth they protect and define.
But in our everyday lives fences are primarily used to protect our most valuable earthly things: home, property, children, privacy, pets (in no particular order). These corrals of wood, metal, and stone are erected to set accurate limitations, establish maintenance expectations, keep what is valuable within our sight, and to prevent the threats of outside forces from impacting us. Fences keep our worlds defined and our resources focused. (Deut. 27:17)

To the at-risk, fences are a comforting boundary, but to the risk taker the same fences stand as prohibitive barriers to success. This reason being the reason my neighbor placed his fence up, to protect their new puppy from running away. However in the process, he created an attractive feature to his home that improves the appearance of the neighborhood. Somewhere between the safety within and the limits of the fences we find the old adage to be true at times, "good fences make good neighbor" by creating good, safe spaces. Relationships have similar boundaries they define, protect, welcome, and comfort us as we interact. The more frequent and longer the interaction the faster those boundaries are defined and often redefined to meet the needs of the relationship. But this boundary movement can be encouraged but must be mutual. As Deuteronomy 27:17 says, have you been guilty of moving boundaries that aren't yours to move? Maybe it was a joke, or advice, or a degrading comment, or an unkept secret. But when boundaries are not respected, conflict and confusion develop and the relationship can crumble. The fence serves as a reminder to slow down and respect the boundary, to be considerate, and move with tact for the sake of the relationship.

It is in the comfort of these boundaries can we learn to appreciate the beauty of the physical and social fences in our lives. Without them, would be like playing baseball without a field. With them, we have the opportunity to swing for the fence, chat with a neighbor, and build lasting relationships.

Essential Community Involvement

2011-10-20T14:27:00.001-04:00

Wow, what a couple of years it has been. I didn't realize a second child, a departmental reorganization, and across the board layoffs would be this taxing on me in 2010 and almost all of 2011. I hope to focus a bit more on writing and sharing some of the great moments of enlightenment and inspiration that have occurred in that time. Hope you find it all as helpful as I have. So on to a thought that has been hammered home lately...

Community involvement is extremely, extremely simple...except when it is not. I believe it all starts with pride and humility. These are two opposite ideas that when balanced and directed appropriately, can be very powerful:

Pride...
In my home:
The first step is taking pride in my home. I say home because it encompasses a lot and isn't limited to those who own their property ("Renters are neighbors too").

It is the concept of home - the building, the family, the children, the pets, the possessions, the place, the block, the playground, the school, the civic club, the church, the community- that fosters the greatest sense of pride and almost always results in a greater level of care.

Often it is difficult to encourage a "sense of home" in a community where the average person moves every 5 years (according to a local planner). This mean that in one childhood the average youth would have been in 4 different homes or communities and the average adult could be in over 10 communities by the time they retire. Trying to quickly establish a "sense of home" and build pride in where you live is vitally important. Connecting residents from the time they move in and through their local traditions and culture are key to weaving the community together.

In my community:
When one cares about something they are willing to make sacrifices to care for it or achieve it. The same is for a community. How many business have you walked in and known right away that they had no pride in what that did? Did you stay or go somewhere else? Did you come back? This happens in communities all the time.

If you have pride in your community it shows and others can see it as well. You also care about the others in your community and their well being because ultimately it affects your own quality of life in a neighborhood. But pride in a community is diverse, complex, and simple. It it shown in many unique ways and it can be shown in the simplest ways - Mowing the grass regularly, not parking in the middle of the yard, keeping the house up, planting flowers, sharing tools, sharing stories, or even just a simple greeting.
Humility...
In my lifestyle
A humble approach to life and the things of life can transform our communities. When we possess a mind of personal humility it leads us to exhibit true contentment. I'm not talking about the contentment of place or soul but being content with material things and able to give to improve your community.

In my networks
The idea of "no greater love has any man than he lay down his life for his friends" does not mean that we have to die to show love. What it refers to is having a humble spirit of giving. In other words, i will give up my ambitions, my pride to help others achieve their dreams. In doing this collectively we can achieve far greater things than if we push to move forward and leave others behind. Capitalism teaches us the reward for hard work, Socialism reminds us of the needs of others who face far greater challenges. Each is not exclusive of the other but we require a balanced and fair approach in a high functioning civil society.

Who are the People in Your Neighborhood?

2011-10-04T07:13:00.000-04:00

I recently presented at the Virginia Statewide Neighborhood Conference on the power of Community Stakeholders. The core message was that "resources exist in communities to do great things but knowing the networks and how to access them are key." We explored how to breakdown the traditional gatekeeper barriers and look for key trust agents that can serve as advocates for your community initiatives. Below is the link to the Prezi that I used. The accompanying group activity will be added later but you can see the instructions in the presentation. Feel free to share and tailor it for your own group.

Who Are the People in Your Neighborhood:
The Power of Community Stakeholders

Community Stakeholders on Prezi

I couldn't post this presentation without a quick shout out to my first civic engagement mentor: Bob from Sesame Street...

Hampton's "True" Civic Engagment model

2009-12-03T09:57:00.008-05:00

So we (the Neighborhood Office) are exploring this year what "true" Civic engagement is, what our most effective role should be within the city, and how we can strengthen neighborhoods in Hampton. No small task by any stretch. To really understand what we need to do we have to understand what has been done.

The work that was started here over 15 years ago to find better ways for citizens and government to work together (in partnership), was revolutionary at the time. The early 90's in Hampton saw other revolutionary programs around drug prevention, positive youth development, healthy family, and youth in government. The city leaders (most being Hampton residents as well) knew that the city's work needed to be done differently. They no longer wanted to develop plans, programs, and policies, only for them to be opposed or resented by the citizens they were working to serve. Trust of local government was quite low.

The short story version was that the leaders gathered and agreed upon a new Neighborhood Initiative that would change the way decisions were made. No longer would a professional make a decision in isolation based on their best understanding. Now, those with the greatest interest in the decisions (residents, property, and business owners) would be the ones to influence the decisions through deliberative discussions.

This type of initiative was largely unheard of from within a local government and even today large metro areas are still slow to adapt true civic engagement principles. The local leaders had to use their best judgment and advice of the citizens they serve and create a new way of doing business in Hampton. From that a body of community leaders, institutional representatives, business leaders, and city leaders was appointed by the city council to strengthen our neighborhoods and affect positive change. Leaders worked with staff to shape the future of the city and establish long term plans. They begin to build networks of residents, organizations, and leaders that had an interest, a dream for a better community, a hope in the power of collaboration.

Through the years they saw many successes in safety (second/third safest city in Hampton Roads), youth (nationally recognized youth civic engagement initiative), community enhancement (over $1 mil given to neighborhoods for public improvement), leadership development (Youth Leadership Academy, Neighborhood College & Workshop Series), education (beautification, volunteerism, and leadership). But with all great initiatives, challenges with sustainability of innovation and motivation are always looming overhead.

So we find ourselves, especially as the economy and communication media have changed, we must look for the next revolutionary approach the allows for a sustainable approach. Very few of those that developed the vision of neighborhood partnership are still around today. Retirements, advancements, health, societal changes have left us with a fewer founding faces, forgotten history, old ways, and lots of new tools.

There are now numerous opportunities for the "re-invention," "re-energizing," and "re-adoption" of the founding principles of the original Neighborhood Initiative. However, challenges lie in identifying and energizing the new "trust agents" (from Chris Brogan) in the community, renewing a sense of hope in collaboration, and celebrating the amazing things that one small community can achieve with shared efforts.

Next Post: How simple is community involvement needed to make a positive change?

Awsome resource on community development!

2009-06-05T11:03:00.003-04:00

I was reading Janice Foster's blog (Grassroots Grantmaking) and saw a publication from Indianapolis that might be of use.

What an awesome resource! Well worth the read and definitely deserves sharing for any neighborhood or community leader. The material applies to multiple areas and fields of work. Definitely a worthwhile resource!

Read her review and download a copy of the Organizers Workbook here.

Support through Ownership to Improve Effectiveness (Part 2)

2009-05-22T14:35:00.002-04:00

A brief follow-up to the last post. Once we have ownership established, meaning the ones who have the greatest investment in results of the activity are activily involved in the entire planning process, then you move from an object or a resource and into a partnership role. This is most commonly seen in youth development models of youth participation in programing. The result is a program that lasts because the participants are also partners in the process. They are integral in planning, designing, implementing, and evaluating a program or ministry.

Do you go with what is often comfortable which often isn't as effective? Do you take the time to find the key stakeholders and develop a much more effective product?

I have always heard that in community building you have to go slow to go fast and far. This reminds us that often the process can be taxing and time consuming in the front but the results will be a much more efficient and effective product for the community that you serve. If I only include those in my own circle of influence then the circle of my ministry or work will never grow.

I must use the social capital with the circles I am connected so that they can expand my influence to their own unique circles. But if I wait to include them at the end just to tell them what to do or where to be when, then I will inevitablly only recieve mediocre fruit for the my work. Thus, ownership of the process, the implementation, evaluation and celebration will result in a much more effective product. I must be reminded that I don't work for my boss or my paycheck but I work for the citizens, the youth, my neighbors, my friends, my family. If I don't do my job well, then they are the ones who will suffer for my bad decisions. I must take ownership of as well as offer it. Ownership builds responsibility, creates effectiveness, enhances our work.

Support through Ownership to Improve Effectiveness (Part 1)

2009-05-10T21:36:00.007-04:00

I haven't posted as regularly because I've been busy at work and at church lately. It has been interesting to me how one concept has been reaffirmed repeatedly in the last two weeks. That concept is the essential key to community building, at the heart of democracy, and is one of the most powerful tools in building an organization, a movement, or community.

The concept of creating support through building ownership come from 2 principles -

Those most impacted by decisions should be involved in the decisions impacting them
Self-sacrifice and giving creates a greater level of ownership and involvement.

The importance here is that when we are given the opportunity to...

be involved from the beginning,
give of our time, talent or other resources, and
take an active role in decisions surrounding that activity or group,

...then we tend to be committed longer, give more than we would have, and see more value in the results.

Imagine I ask someone to do a construction job but share no vision with them, no blue prints, and no sketches. Then we wonder why the project didn't succeed or to level of quality we wanted. This happens all too often in community building. We as organizers, planners, leaders, decision makers treat people as recipients of our service rather than resources in the process.

Many times we treat participants or members as if we are the Jordan river and they are the "Dead Sea" - the most mineral rich body of water on earth. We pour in resources and time (minerals/nutrients) and then expect them to miraculously take leadership or support our cause (growth/life). The reality is we have just saturated them with minerals and because there is no outlet for those resources to be shared or absorbed.

The key message, in this Part 1 on Ownership, is that we cannot expect people to be involved because of us or our resources, we are replaceable. The most effective way to get others involved is because of their own self interest. We are our best motivators, our self interest is why we get involved and rarely will we do something because others want us to do it. Call it human nature, the flesh, or capitalism, the "what's in it for me" holds a powerful role in the programs, initiatives or ministries we manage. Capitalizing on it in a honorable and intentional way will advance our activities immensely.

Part 2 - Ownership to Citizenship to a stronger Community

Authentic Demand

2009-04-13T19:21:00.004-04:00

Check out Grassroots Grantmakers blog from Tony Macklin on Annie E Casey Foundations report of Sustaining Neighborhood Change and "authentic demand" here.

A good read and a great blog to follow. Enjoy!

Honor, Fear, Love: Keys to Christian Citizenship

2009-03-31T21:09:00.004-04:00

It has been a while since I've posted due to a plethora of reasons that range from family, work and church activity and commitments. I was inspired to write today because of a passage that has grabbed my attention. But first let me share a little context for my study.

In a Sunday School class that I teach of young single adults, the other teacher and I developed a series called "Intentional Living." We are focusing on practical application of biblical principles on issues that closely impact singles and young adults. We are covering topics such as "Singleness of mind & heart," "Right giving, Right Living," "The Family: Love, Submit & Obey," "The 5 Love Languages," "Outreach & Evangelism," "Church Body Building," and "Healthy body, Healthy soul." Rather than the traditional alternating teacher lecture style with just the same two teachers, we have elicited help from several experienced leaders in the church to share a 20 minute study (straight and to the key points) and lead a 20 minute discussion on the topic.

The format and the topics aren't ground breaking but the secondary impacts have been greater than expected - attendance is more consistent, students have conversations with leaders outside of class, current leaders are now more connected to the future leaders in the congregation.

So back to where I start this post. I have been tapped to teach a "Truth, Justice and the Christian Way" mini series on civic responsibility and social justice. I was studying the following passage and the last verse has sat with me constantly in the past few months:

13 Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; 14 Or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well.15 For so is the will of God, that with well doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: 16 As free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. 17 Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king.

" Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the King." Four simple rules to live by as Christians. Even more importantly in today's climate, four principles to govern by. Here is my quick summary of these 4 simple rules, please share you comments:

Honour All Men. We must remember the humanity of a man/woman and not just his/her profession or stature in society. Do we respect and treat a millionaire CEO the same way we respect the homeless person we pass on a busy street. We must remember that each is a lost soul in need of Christ. No one comes from a high position in life because we are all humbled by our guilty sin.
Love the Brotherhood. There is a unique bond between Christians that we should crave more of and cherish. This isn't a bond with the church but a bond with the brother/sisters in Christ. Our "allegiance" is to Christ and his joint-heirs not the organizations, institutions or structures we create. The brotherhood is about relationships, people to people, and great value should be given to these relationships in our lives.
Fear God. The core of our life and world view should be a fearful respect for God. This is our guiding instruction that sets the standard for all of actions. We develop this fear from study of his word and spending time with him in prayer.
Honour the King. The king represents the civic government that is in authority. As Peter writes in verse 13, we are to submit to the "king's" authority and ordinance that our just living will be an example to the lost and foolish. We cannot expect to follow the holy instruction of God if we are unable to follow the simple instruction of earthly kings. But as Psalms 118:8 says, "It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes." Honour but don't expect the prince or the king to provide the needs that only the Lord can provide through faith.

Just a few thoughts as I study the topic. I hope to bring more on a subject that I find fascinating and timely. Please let me know your thoughts on the subject, other reference materials, or your studies on the subject. Have a blessed week!

Diets, Dollars, and Dialogue

2009-01-27T20:44:00.008-05:00

A new year brings new resolutions, new goals, and new hope. January reminds us that last year is now truly history and we've been given the opportunity to have a year to change what we did or did not do the year before. Many choose to change their diets, their spending, their friends, their routines.

At this point in the month, many of us have already given up on at least one of our planned changes. I guess you can say many of us have "failed" in some area of our life. I recently was in a class by a successful local businessman who emphasized the fact that we only truly fail not when we fail to succeed but fail to continue to try. But even still many of us tend to hold out hope that we will start the change "next week."

Change is a relative term. I believe that this is especially true in this most recent election and new presidency, with change as a key topic of discussion and motivation for millions in the last election. Millions became involved on a historic scope, in many areas of the country because they hope in the prospect of change. Some may hope for change in the middle eastern wars, the economy, abortion laws, marriage laws, drug enforcement, fossil fuels, climate change, or the way our democracy is run.

I must be honest and say that I have been intrigued with Obama's presidency this first week. From inauguration, to GITMO, and economic recovery discussions, I have been listening for my own version of change - a change in dialogue. So often politicians are elected to represent a constituency, but unlike true statesmen, they fail to do build a broad enough constituency to develop fair dialogue on the issues they are faced with. Political community organizing is often done to advance an agenda, secure a re-election, or prevent an opposing group from gaining ground. I hope to explore the idea of dialogue and deliberative democracy in the next few weeks.

In the mean time, check out some entries from some others on this issue.

Organizing for America (Social Capital)
"Start Listening" (Harwood Institute)

People Power (Peter Levine)

Consider what your approach to these tough issues of change have been. Are you looking for root causes, common areas of agreement, or just differences? How can this new administration foster local organization and dialogue around these national, state and local issues to bring effective, realistic and transformational change?

Finding a sparing partner

2008-12-31T11:01:00.006-05:00

With the recent selection by President-Elect Obama of Rick Warren to deliver the inaugural prayer of his presidency, controversy has abounded as to the political reasoning for his decision. Numerous people have written about it over the last two weeks (Frank Rich - New York Times)and even more has been written about what has been written (Peter Levine, Steve Waldeman,). I figure what would be one more level of commentary in the mix.

"Iron sharpeneth iron" Prov.27.17

"Surround Yourself With People Smarter Than You” - George Steinbrenner & others

The real question that has risen from the Obama-Warren debate is the fact that they don't agree on everything, or much at all on the social reform list. This challenge approach was key to Obama's campaign (setting aside any personal views of the election & Obama's views) and he has continued to use this approach for opportunities like this. This reflects another aspect of an effective community builder. Surrounding yourself with people who will challenge, strengthen and encourage you while doing it with heartfelt and genuine respect is something that many great leaders have done.

The ability to face would be "adversaries" and see past the "issues" and see them as God's creation. A commuity builder's toughest skill isn't in working and involving people that you can agree with all the time but with those who won't. Christ spent time with sinners and publicans, people very different from his sinless life. Paul was the missionary to the Gentiles, a people he despised for the early portion of his life. We cannot, however, ignore the principle of seeking godly council from other spiritual leaders because they help to keep you grounded in their faith (i.e. Paul & Barnabas/Silas).

When Paul wrote of the need for unity in the church, he didn't say it was needed because they all got along but because there were divisions. In Ephesians Paul repeatedly connects unity with a humble spirit - the only way to begin to achieve unity.

As we move forward as a country with the upcoming inaguration, we cannot dismiss the opportunity to continue the level of engagement that has occured. We must acknowledge our differences - no matter how fundamental, discover the areas we agree - surprisingly more often then we would think, and dialogue about the easily divisive issues.

Community Bulding - Genuiness is fundamental

2008-12-20T15:15:00.010-05:00

With any community effort, genuineness and commitment has to be a central attribute. That complimentary, patient, caring, and empathetic approach is the only effective way to build a sustainable community. As community builders, we cannot come in as "fixers" or "solvers" we must be a "supporter, encourager, resource, and facilitator." We must realize that within any community, numerous resources exist (skills, talents, abilities, finances, and relationships) that often lay untapped in the members and attendees. This often happens because leaders are okay doing the work themselves or they prefer to follow their own vision and not a corporate vision for the community. We cannot assume that the vision or the passion we hold for a community is a reflection of the community. We must involve those who do not always agree with us and challenges us to do better than to simply go with those who always agree with us.

I was reminded of this fact when I read a video post by Nephos as I was studying to teach a class on Sunday. The video comes from pronounced atheist and comedic magician Penn Jillette (of Penn & Teller). It describes an encounter he had with a man who gave him a Gideon Bible. Here is a great example of genuineness and made me wonder the impact of 10 genuine people. Also his comments on "how much hate do you have to have" really brings home the idea of commitment to your beliefs. Do you have anything "worth" believing in enough to give of yourself, your reputation, your life? Just as within a community, community builders get involved for their own self-interest, their own passion for a cause. Genuineness, commitment, empathy, and care are fundamental to community builders.

Check out the Penn testimonial video here.

Intentional Relationship Building in the Local Church

2008-12-15T20:55:00.009-05:00

Community building can happen anywhere and it needs to be happening everywhere.

The concepts of intentional community building, building social capital, and increasing the level of neighborliness are all related and speak to the strengths and backgrounds of the builder-observer. The need for effective community building in every organizational culture is greater today than in the last 30 years. Research is beginning to show us that the level of face to face interaction between households has declined. Robert Putnam's "Bowling Alone" highlights this issue as a loss of social capital. See Social Capital's Blog on "UK Loneliness"

It happens in our local churches and worship centers as well. Many people come to places of worship to be connected, but avoid being overly committed. (going to the bowling alley but not joining the league, living in a neighborhood but not hosting a new neighbor, etc.)

I have even seen people come over the past few years and continue to come of their own volition, not because they agree what the beliefs of that group but they seem to want to feel connected. It seems that this is why many people come for entertainment/curiosity and leave immediately or keep their interaction to a minimum.

Why are activities like Christmas programs so popular but the practical services throughout the year so sparsely attended?
What happens between visits that draws them back?
Why do some come if opposed to the standards and position of the church?

Spiritually speaking - we can tend to attribute it to a consciousness, a calling, a yearning. I think that these answers are too easy, putting the sole responsibility on the member/attendee and relinquishing the responsibility of the local organization. In fact, with an effective community building approach, churches could see this problem minimized in a short time. If the membership is motivated, engaged, and aware to intentionally engage visitors, then they will take ownership of the congregation. The congregation itself can routinely and consistently welcome, invite, and include "quick attendees" into the congregation faster than it they would be in a passive engagement approach.

I'll leave you with the thoughts for future posts.

How intentional is the inclusion of visitors by your congregation?
Who recruits volunteers? Is it always the leadership or the congregation itself?
How aware is your congregation of the skills, abilities, and assets of the members?

Inaugural Post - Not an Easy Decision

2008-12-15T12:00:00.002-05:00

As President-Elect Obama makes preparations for his inauguration next month, the anxiety of his he and his speech writers must be high. This historic election will be viewed on an international stage amidst a backdrop of economic fear, ongoing war, and high social tensions. While he is a skilled orator, no amount of preparation can prepare him for this moment in his life.
I am not the President-Elect, not preparing to become the leader of one of the most powerful
countries in the world, and not sharing my vision for where the country should go in the next four years. This shouldn't be a surprise, but wanted to make it clear. Nevertheless, writing your "inaugural blog" is a daunting task. It sets the tone, the vision and expectation for what is to come. With that said, lets get into it...
Citizens, friends, and neighbors I ask you today to listen with me.

Listen with me to others in our communities to find out our needs, hopes, dreams and aspirations.

In listening, discover what they have to offer through their skills, time, ability, knowledge, and history.

In discovering, share what you have in common, those connections that make us a society, a civilization, citizens of a nation.

As you share, be moved to act to meet the needs of others by giving of the skills you have and the influence you have to create change.

Through action, be mindful of others, acting not out of pride or self-gain but through service, humility and concern.

As you are mindful of others be reminded to listen to ensure you heard what they said at the beginning.

Go. Make a difference, have faith, and build hope.