Downtown Update

Tuesday, October 12.

I went to three employment agencies in my effort to find a means of income. I discovered that one of the agencies, A & R Staffing, is located in the "old post office" on 24th and Lincoln in downtown Ogden. (I walked and prayed past that beautiful old building several times last week, never really stopping to see what businesses were inside.) So, I entered the building, found the correct suite, and filled out an application. The young lady asked me to return with my resume.

At dinner, my son announced that his boss asked him to represent the company at the T.U.B.E. (Top of Utah Business Expo) sponsored by the Ogden Chamber of Commerce.

Wednesday, October 13.

At breakfast I told my son, "I think I'll drop in and see the T.U.B.E. this afternoon!" (I thought this would be a chance to see a little more of my son and visit with business people from around the town, and besides, I also know that this is a great place to get cookies, pens, etc.)

My son went to T.U.B.E. at about 10 AM, while I was at home working on my resume. He called and said, "Hey, there are at least three employment agencies here with booths, you need to come!" So, Sandra dropped me off at about 1 PM . . .

I said hello to my son, met his associates, and then began to walk around. I stopped by the Grand Canyon University booth, had a small piece of pizza, and chatted for a while. I grabbed a cookie at a State Farm Insurance booth and scooted before they tried to talk insurance. Found a bunch of pens here and there. Had a wonderful cookie at the "Ben Lomond Suites" booth, a high class, beautiful old hotel in the tallest building downtown.

Then I found the A & R Staffing booth. I walked up and spoke to the gentleman behind the table. "I filled out an application yesterday!"

"At my office?" he asked.

I said, "Your office . . . are you A or R.?"

"I'm A," he said. "I own the business. What kind of work are you looking for?"

"Well, right now I'm probably best suited for clerical work, so that's what I'm looking for. However, I do have about 39 years of pastoral ministry behind me."

"You do? I may have something for you . . . can you come to my office tomorrow morning?"

"Sure . . ."

"I'm on the Board of Directors for the Salvation Army. We need to hire experienced administrators to help us expand your outreach. I'd like to have your resume. Can you come by at 9 AM."

"Absolutely!" We talked for a few more minutes, and then I said, "I'll see you at 9 in the morning!" and wandered off wondering what God is up to. Those of you who have been reading my journals know that I have walked past and prayed for the Salvation Army!

I called Sandra, and she was amazed! We posted a brief note on Facebook asking for prayer.

Thursday, October 14.

I walked into A & R Staffing this morning and went to the reception window. Mr. Arnold jumped up and said, "There's my man!" He led me into his office where we sat down. I handed him my resume. He scanned it quickly and said, "Great! Looks good! I have a meeting over there at 10. They don't know I'm bringing this, but I'm going to try to sell you . . . that's what I do, I sell people!"

We had a great conversation. Early in the conversation, he said, "Growing up, I had about 11 family members who were ministers in the Assemblies of God. They think I've gone over to the dark side."

I said, "You mean you went to your Senior Prom?"

He laughed and said, "Not exactly."

I asked him what kind of help the Salvation Army needs. He said they have closed down the residential Alcohol Rehabilitation Programs for men and women, and now they have to develop new outreach programs. He said, "We need to reach young people! I would rather reach one teenager and keep him off of drugs than try to rehabilitate 10 addicts who will probably go right back on the stuff after they are clean!"

Later he said, "I have an uncle pastoring in Colorado, and two cousins pastoring in Hawaii."

At the end, I thanked him for being willing to meet with me. He said he would get back to me as soon as possible.

I don't want to try to figure out what God is doing, but I know this . . . 1) God led me back to downtown Ogden to apply for employment, 2) He gave me an opportunity to meet a man who has a heart for the people who walk the streets I walked last week, and 3) He may have a ministry position with a great organization, right there in downtown Ogden! Wow!

And on the Sabbath . . .

Saturday, October 9

After attending a men's breakfast at Ogden Christian Fellowship with my son, I returned home and picked up Sandra and my grandson Eldon. I thought they would drop me off, but they volunteered to walk with me. At about 11 AM, we parked on 25th Street, just a inside the historic district. This was Sandra's first walk down 25th, and there really are so many things to see. But, we kept walking and I began praying following the pattern of the "Lord's Prayer."

We walked the north side of 25th to Wall, crossed the street and walked the south side in the opposite direction to Grant. I was relieved that I managed to keep Sandra out of the antique shops. Her comment as we reached Grant: "I can see why you've made so many comments about food . . . there are a lot of places to eat!"

Walking south on Grant, we stopped at the Wonder Bread Thrift Store. We bought a package of small chocolate donuts for Eldon . . . I resisted the cries of the fruit pies. As we walked, I pointed out all the places I have discovered during the previous six days. At the Salvation Army Thrift Shop, I said, "And here's where you can shop for new clothes, Sandra!" She was not impressed.

Passing in front of an old apartment building, we stopped to look at a small "yard sale". Sandra asked about a stack of plastic hangers, saying, "We just moved here and we need hangers." The lady asked where we were from . . . in a great conversation, we discovered that she was born and spent most of her life in El Centro, California. We talked, bought the hangers for $1, and with a "God bless you!" we proceeded on our prayer walk.

At the half way mark, near the car, Sandra and Eldon left me to walk alone.

My goal was to walk my course seven times. From my earlier walks, I knew each 2.5 mile lap would take about an hour. I walked, prayed, worshipped, prayed in tongues, and observed the city. I smiled and spoke to everyone I passed.

I noted that there were many people at the Mormon temple/tabernacle complex. I wondered what brought so many people together on a Saturday . . .

On my second lap, I found myself singing several songs . . . "You're the God of this city . . . there is no one like you, God . . . greater things are yet to come, and greater things are yet to be done in this city!"

And at the moment, I can't remember the other choruses that came to my memory from at least 15 years ago . . . but I enjoyed singing!

During my second lap, I found a baseball by a curb outside the Lindquist Stadium where the Ogden Raptors play . . . I grabbed the ball like a kid and carried it the rest of the day to give to my grandson. Later I realized that some people seemed a bit puzzled by the sight of a guy holding a Bible in one hand and a baseball in the other.

I varied my routes as before, keeping the length of each route the same by applying geometric principles . . . this enabled me to cover a lot of streets within the downtown area.

As my walking progressed, I became increasingly weary . . . and I prayed in tongues more and quoted scripture as it came to me. "The Lord is my Light and my Salvation, whom shall I fear? The Lord is the Strength of my life . . . Lord, give me strength to finish the course!"

After three laps, I was really tired and sore . . . I couldn't feel my toes, but my toenails were screaming! I sat down near a bronze statue on the corner of Washington and 25th, rested my feet and stretched my legs . . . I read the passage from Acts telling of Paul's ministry in Athens and in Corinth. Somehow, I think ministry in Ogden may be a blend of those experiences. Ogden seems to have some people who place great confidence in their religious philosophy. Yet, there are many who are essentially pagan and profane. I took note of how long Paul ministered faithfully in Corinth.

I started my fourth lap at about 2:30 PM. I fought to keep from resting on a chair outside the Farr Better Ice Cream Parlour . . . I knew I couldn't rest in the chair without an ice cream cone. At the other side of downtown, I altered my course with the intention of buying a Lemon Pie at the Wonder Bread Thrift Store . . . at the last moment, I crossed the street and avoided direct contact with the source of my temptation.

When I finished my fourth lap, I knew I was finished physically. I don't remember ever walking 10 miles . . . I also realized that I will have to return to downtown Ogden as often as possible in the months ahead, not so much to walk, but to find ways to reach out to people with the wonderful message, "The Kingdom of Heaven is right here . . . reconsider your plan for living and believe the Good News!" People need the Lord!

Junction City Journey

Friday, October 8

I began my journey in Junction City at 8:30 AM. What? You thought I was in Ogden?

Earlier this week, I noticed a faded painted sign on a brick building in downtown Ogden . . . it said "JUNCTION CITY". And, I remembered that a newly rejuvenated and still-in-progress section of town is called "The Junction".

Last night, the whole family went to Hastings, a local bookstore with a coffee shop . . . it's a lot like Borders or Barnes & Noble and it's a favorite of Homer III, Alicia, and their kids. Sandra and I went along, of course, because we do not want to miss an opportunity to be with our grand kids. Everyone scattered to find a book or magazine. I found a "local" section and selected a thin book offering a photographic history of Ogden. I learned a lot about the history behind the term "Junction City."

Two beautiful rivers flow out of the Wasatch Mountains above what is now Ogden. The Ogden River and the Weber River merge within two miles of Union Station. In 1846, years before the Mormons arrived, a mountain man/trapper named Miles Goodyear built Fort Buenaventura beside the Weber River, near its junction with the Ogden River. The fort actually marked a site that had been a meeting place, a "rendezvous," for a generation of rugged men like Jim Bridger and Peter Ogden.

The "golden spike" united the first trans-continental railroad only 25 miles from Ogden, which was the staging area for the last section of that railroad. Ogden became a junction for several railroads. Hundreds of thousands of settlers passed through Ogden on their way to the west coast, or back. Today, most passenger trains stop in Salt Lake City, but Ogden still has a railroad yard that is bigger than some of the cities I've lived in!

So, Ogden is known locally as "Junction City."

Today I chose a different route. I parked on Grant Avenue at 21st Street, walked south on Grant to 25th, then turned west on 25th to Wall Avenue. I crossed 25th and walked back to Grant, then turned south again to 27th, where I crossed the street and returned north to 25th. I turned east on 25th to Washington, crossed the street, and turned west on 25th, to Grant. Turning north on Grant, I walked back to my car. Thus, my path marked a large "cross" in the middle of town. I actually walked to the junction of 25th Street and Grant Avenue 4 times.

The weather was cool and damp. The streets were wet from early morning rains. At that early hour and in the wet weather, there were few people on the streets. But, walked and conversed with the triune God.

On my path I passed right in front of the Wonderbread Thrift Store, where I saw Zingers, Ding Dongs, Twinkies, Snowballs, and, of course, bread. I only mention this because my sister Sue Carrigan has been complaining about my frequent references to food! Hey Sue! The store was closed.

I passed the Salvation Army, which seems to have a positive presence in the city. I need to return and make contact with the leadership there.

Walking along Grant, I was inspired to pray, "Lord, grant me the joy of knowing and doing your will. Grant me your wisdom, love, and power, in Jesus' Name! Grant this town a great time of renewal and revival with a great harvest of souls! Grant us seasons of refreshing in the Holy Spirit? Grant us great things, Oh Father!"

Much of my time walking was spent thinking and talking to God about my life. The path of my life has crossed the path of Ogden City. This is a "junction" that is very real to me right now. I'm not certain God has brought me to Ogden to stay. I am open to returning to California, and moving to any other state in the west is not out of the question.

When I resigned my Templeton pastorate in July, I felt a little like Abraham . . . when people asked, "Where are you going?" I often responded with, "Like Abraham, I'm going to a country that God will show me." Today I realized that Abraham pitched his tent and built altars in several locations before he seemed to find a more permanent location.

So, I am at a junction. While I am here, I ask God to teach me and shape me. One thing I am certain of . . . God wants me to remember that there are people on and around the streets of our towns and cities everywhere who need to know about His love, grace, and power! I can never retreat to the safe confines of a church facility and a church family . . . I must go into the streets of whatever town I land in, and do everything I can to make disciples among lost people!

Around Ogden

Thursday, October 7

I'll try to be brief today. I parked my car at the Ogden Safety Center at 1 PM and began my prayer walk.

Today, I prayed the pattern commonly called, "The Lord's Prayer. I particularly enjoyed praying for His Kingdom to come and His will to be done right here in Ogden. This city needs to experience the Kingdom beyond mere theology, thought, or theory. This city needs to experience the power of God's Sovereign reign. The people of Ogden need to experience the reality of the God who changes lives and confirms His word with signs, wonders, and miracles!

I spoke to everyone who would make eye contact with me . . . a couple of guys seated at a sidewalk table outside a restaurant on 25th Street, a hair stylist sweeping dust out the door of her salon, a jogger, the taco stand vendor who really wanted some paying customers . . .

A lot of people ride their bicycles on the sidewalk, which presents potential problems when they are approaching quietly from behind! I nearly stepped in front of one guy . . . he turned in his seat, grinned brightly, and said, "I tried to figure out which way you were going to weave!" I laughed and said, "I'll try to walk straight, but it's not easy!"

I walked and talked with a young man for about a block. Our paths merged when he came out of parking lot by the Human Services buildings. I asked if he worked at the center, and he said he gets counselling there. We talked about the weather, then he headed south on Washington when I turned north. I enjoyed the opportunity to practice my conversation-with-strangers skills. I want to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit with I have such opportunities.

I used my knowledge of Geometry to zig and zag my route without diminishing the distance I am walking. This enables me to investigate new sidewalks. I put my hands on the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd as I passed . . . I prayed for a dramatic move of God in that strategically placed ministry.

I saw a large sign on a four-story building. The word "Lighthouse" stood out on top, running in the horizontal . . . then I saw the word "Electric" running vertically down the front of the building. On the ground floor was another business named "Lighthouse Lounge" . . . I got a chuckle from all that, because "Lighthouse" is not my favorite name for a local church.

I battled temptation once more while passing "Farr Better Ice Cream Parlour." They really do have great ice cream, shakes, malts, sundaes, fresh fudge . . .

Speaking of ice cream, I saw the most unusual sight yesterday. On one corner of the plaza at Washington and 25th is a small lunch establishment offering buffalo burgers, hot dogs, and ice cream. Yesterday, I noticed a John Deere tractor parked in a small fenced area, near the food vendor. As I approached, I could not make out the purpose of the attachment behind the tractor. When I investigated further, I found two large homemade ice cream makers powered by the tractor! Now that's a truly useful machine!

I finished my walk at 2 PM, climbed in the car, and drove north away from downtown, wondering, "What did I accomplish today?" "What AM I doing?" "Why am I doing this?"

Re-examining my decision to prayer walk around Ogden, I recalled my initial inspiration was Joshua and the Children of Israel marching around Jericho. But, God had not promised me any particular accomplishment or victory. No, going into this week of walking I knew that the real purpose involved what God wants to do in me. I have become comfortable taking my "Pastor's Bible" to the a pulpit and preaching to nice church people . . . now I'm taking my Bible into the streets. Now I'm learning to be available to God, to listen to the Spirit, and to see the needs of a city and it's lost multitudes. I soon concluded that God is working in me, and I have to trust Him!

Tomorrow, I'll pray and walk again. On Saturday, with God's help, I'm going to attempt to complete seven trips around town. And then, I'll trust God to lead me and use me in the weeks beyond.

Wednesday's Walk

Wednesday, October 6

Today I chose to walk at another hour of the day. I parked on 25th Street within sight of the Union Station at about 12:30 PM.

The weather was wonderful! A deep blue sky was sprinkled with rather small, non-threatening white clouds. The air was clean and sweet! No umbrella seemed necessary today!

Since I expected to see more business people at this time of the day, I dressed up a little . . . khaki Dockers and a Hawaiian shirt . . . you know, the way pastors in Southern California dress on Sunday mornings!

One other significant change: I carried my Bible today.

I decided to approach my circuit in a counter clock-wise direction, generally south, east, north, west, and south again. I set out with much praise and thanksgiving, and a quick prayer for a tender heart and an alert mind.

Approaching the first intersection at 25th and Wall, I noticed the difference in traffic at this time of the day . . . more people on the road! At every intersection cars were waiting for me to cross . . . I was keenly aware that people were watching the big guy in a bright shirt carrying a huge black Bible! I smiled and waved to those who waited.

The first segment of my walk was uneventful . . . I just watched and prayed.

Passing the youth center and human services center, I walked by two groups of people sitting or standing on the sidewalk talking. I overheard short parts of the conversations, enough to know that both groups were discussing personal problems and concerns . . . "Then I got pregnant" was heard at one group and "I know you are frustrated" was heard at the second. People with needs, people needing someone to talk to . . . this reality spoke to the pastoral counselor part of me. I thought, "I'd love to find a job which allowed me to offer comfort and counsel to the people I serve."

The path I have been walking is generally rectangular in shape, three city blocks east to west by seven city blocks north to south. Yesterday I began taking turns into that section of town, walking on the other side of a block then returning to the basic path. Thus, the length of my walk remained the same, but I saw other sights within the scope of my prayer focus.

Reaching the vicinity of Washington and 25th, I became aware of the many people standing at the various taco/tamale stands and others walking with Styrofoam food containers. (There were at least four sidewalk food vendors in town today, in addition to numerous restaurants, cafes, and fast food places.) Having skipped lunch, the availability of food appealed to me, but I also realized that a lot of people are hungry. I wondered how many were hungry for truth. Someone in this town must be hungry for God!

I passed a lot of people on the sidewalk . . . some nodded or greeted me, and some seemed to deliberately direct their attention away from me . . . I wondered what affect the sight of my Bible might be having . . .

At the Washington side of the Mormon Temple I prepared to take a closer look at something I noticed about the landscape on Tuesday. I saw a small Hispanic woman walking in my direction pause where I planned to look. She was looking at the plants I wanted to inspect. On Tuesday I saw what looked like pepper plants . . . small bushes covered with orange or yellow or red or green chili peppers! As I approached the lady said, "Are those vegetables?" I said, "I think so! I wonder if they can be eaten?" As she walked away, I suddenly realized the other plants were leafy green and purple cabbages! I wondered what the Mormon authorities would think of me harvesting veggies from their landscape . . .

A little further along, I spied a grocery cart filled with belongings . . . a young woman was sitting in the parkway next to the cart, and ten feet away, a man paced near a bus bench. As I passed the cart and approached the man's position, he took two steps into the street, mumbled something about "a white man's problems" stepped back to the curb and quickly walked away from me. His behavior was odd and eccentric . . . I suspect he was oppressed by demons and became agitated as I approached. "Oh Lord, you can set him free!"

Walking on I thought of the time I spent in prayer this morning, putting on the armor of God.

During the last segment of my walk, I was very aware of the aroma of bread baking somewhere nearby. I tried to figure out what was happening in the nearest building . . . then I saw a sign that said "International Armoring Corporation." I doubted that they were baking bread, but I offered another word of thanks to the One who provided spiritual armor for living!

In the last block of my walk, I passed what must have been the source of the aroma . . . a little "ristorante" and bakery on 25th street. Several people sitting in the windows were eating sandwiches made on what must have been freshly baked french rolls.

Within 100 feet of my car I had a unique experience. Two men were standing beneath a sign that said, "BEER" . . . as I passed, I smiled and said, "Good afternoon!" One man said, "Hi! I always respect a man with a Bible!" I was at a loss for words . . . I turned and smiled, "Do you have a Bible?" He said no . . . I said, "It's a good thing to have! God bless you!" Turning, I walked away, kicking myself on the inside and saying, "Dear God, help me do better than that next time I have an opportunity to speak to someone!"

I have a lot to learn! Maybe that's why God sent me here . . . keep praying for Homer in Ogden!

On the Streets of Ogden, Day Three

Tuesday, October 5

Today, I chose to walk just a little later in the morning. On Monday, many businesses were not yet open. Today, most businesses were open (including the "Farr Better Ice Cream Parlor").

I parked on 25th near Washington, beginning my walk in a different location and the other direction. As I began, I thanked God for the beautiful, cool day and asked Him to walk with me. I expressed gratitude that I had few aches from my fall on the previous day, and I expressed my trust that He would keep me on my feet today!

City employees were entering the Municipal Building, taco/tamale stands were setting up, and a suit with a brief case was trying the door at the Bank of Utah just across 26th Street. I made a mental note to return to the Municipal Building to report the dangerous condition of their sidewalk.

Today I was struck with the amazing variety of people in the city. I passed Hispanics, African Americans, and Anglos. Some were obviously dressed-up for business, others were dressed business casual wearing badges on lanyards, and some were clearly transient, wearing backpacks or pulling luggage. I must remember that God looks on the hearts, not on the skin or the clothes . . .

As I passed the complex identified yesterday as the Archway Youth Service Center, I realized that the facility serves a broader spectrum of human needs. I noted that people with learning and living difficulties (aka disabilities) were arriving in vans and mini-vans. It was as if God was reminding me that Ogden is not populated only by the stereotypical suburban family, that is, Dad, Mom, two kids, and a dog. There are all kinds of people with all kinds of needs, all of them having one real need, to know Jesus as Lord and Life-giver.

I was a block away from the Wonder Bread Bakery and distribution center, but I thought of how important bread is in life. Again this morning I prayed, "Give us today, our daily bread." Technically, bread is not on my diet at this time, but this part of the pattern for prayer reminds us to trust God for our sustenance. Bread . . . Jesus said, "I am the Bread of Life!" An old hymn says, "Break Thou the bread of life, Lord, unto me, as thou didst break the bread beside the sea!" Jesus also faced temptation with this truth: "Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from God!" People need this living bread, the bread of life!

Wall Street south of 25th was sparsely populated with people waiting for an opportunity to work. Remember, this portion of the city is within two blocks of the homeless center, St. Anne's, and the Ogden Rescue Mission.

I paused at Wall and 25th and looked eastward through this "historic" area. So much effort and expense has been spent to renew, restore, and resurrect this section of town. There are empty lots and empty buildings waiting for someone . . . "I am the Resurrection and the Life!" Our only hope for real renewal is in the powerful love and grace of God, through the Lord Jesus Christ.

Along Wall Street in the block north of 25th I saw the familiar sign on an old building: "Available." Selah!

I walked past a building that had clearly been renovated and put to use again . . . there were no signs on or around the building identifying it's purpose, but people walking on the sidewalks and standing in the plaza outside the building were wearing those lanyards and identification cards. I quietly and carefully stopped a lady walking in my direction. "Excuse me Ma'am, what is in this building?" I asked. Cautiously she said, "Federal offices."

As I passed the temple/tabernacle complex, I was walking behind a man who was pushing another in a wheel chair. I intended to offer to push his friend for a few minutes, but they turned into the Mormon complex before I could overtake them. Then I noticed that the parking lot was fairly full . . . I wondered what was happening on a Tuesday morning, and I wondered what they might do for a seriously handicapped person.

Nearing my starting place I noticed three men in shirts and ties, with paperwork and rolls of paper, which I assumed to be architectural prints. They waved their hands across a vacant lot next to The Junction, probably discussing plans for development. I asked God, "What kind of plans do you have for this city? What would you like to develop?"

On a car nearby a personalized license plate proclaimed, "IFISH." When Jesus invited the fisherman to follow Him, He said, "From now on, you will catch men!" I thought, "That's what He wants us to do . . . He wants us to fish for men!"

Monday's Walk

Monday, October 4

Today, I took Eldon (my Grandson) to school at 7:45 AM, then drove into Downtown Ogden. I parked on 25th Street, just east of Wall Street. The sky was dominated by dark clouds with silver linings; my windshield wipers were needed on the way. The air was cooler, but not cold. After taking my umbrella from the trunk as a precaution, I locked the car and proceeded south on Wall, following the same route taken on Sunday.

As I began to walk, I sense the presence of God . . . I enjoyed about 5 minutes of singing to my Heavenly Father in a heavenly language, punctuated by expressions of praise and prayer in English.

I noticed several groups of people on both sides of Wall Street ahead of me. Recalling similar scenes in other cities, I guessed these men were waiting for opportunities to work. Soon I walked by three men of Hispanic origins. As I passed, I said, "Good morning!" Then I turned and asked, "Are you men looking for work?" They answered and nodded in the affirmative. I said, "I'm sorry I don't have work today, but may I offer a prayer for you?" All three smiled as one answered, "Oh, yes!" I offered a brief prayer to the Father in the Name of Jesus, asking for good money, good work, and good strength for all three. As I finished, I noticed that the one gentleman wearing a cap had moved that cap from his head to his heart! "God bless you!" I said, and turned to resume my walk. I was pumped!

As I approached the corner of Lincoln and 27th streets, I took note of a group of buildings that seemed to dominate the next block. I recalled noticing on Sunday that the parking lot contained numerous vans and mini-vans with exempt license plates. So I turned north on Lincoln to see what these buildings were. It was the Archway Center for Youth . . . the buildings looked like they might be dormitories. I will have to investigate this place further . . .

Turning again to the east on 26th, I walked to Washington and crossed the street heading north. I had just entered the block containing the Municipal Building and the aforementioned plaza, when my toe hit a raised block of sidewalk and I began to plunge forward! In two or three quick steps I failed to recover my balance, and found myself sprawled on the wide sidewalk! I paused to assess my pain and discovered nothing of concern. Turning over onto my seat, I felt a twinge in the left side of my ribcage. Looking around, I was both glad and sad to find that nobody seemed to notice my fall. I was glad because my embarrassment was limited. I was sad because I had no immediate witnesses to support my huge lawsuit against the City of Ogden! After briefly wondering why my Companion had allowed me to stumble, I arose, stretched, and resumed my walk, at a somewhat slower pace, thanking God that I seemed to be in one piece!

On Washington Avenue, I passed the Egyptian Theater, a center for drama, dance, and other arts. I recalled seeing this place promoted on the Ogden website. Ogden prides itself on the role of the arts in the community . . . recreation and outdoor sports is another source of civic pride.

I noticed several places offering lodging within my circuit. There was a Marriott of some kind a block or two off my route. I passed a nice Hampton Suites in a rejuvenated building, next to a convention complex. There were several older but nice hotels, and there were a few places that were not so nice.

Passing the Mormon Temple/Tabernacle complex, I was struck with the view of a white spire topped with a golden Moroni blowing a trumpet, all against the dark background of approaching storm clouds. I snapped an inferior shot on my cell phone and mused, "There's an angry storm over the Temple today . . . God, as you reign, rain down truth, mercy, and grace upon the religious institution that dominates so much of Ogden and Utah today!"

On 22nd Street I took note of a place that offers serious personal temptations . . . across the street, as I dared venture no closer, was the Farr Ice Cream Parlour! Recalling my visits to Ogden in previous years, I knew this place offered many calorie laden delights. Note to self: it's much safer to walk down this street in the morning, BEFORE they open!

Soon, my walk was completed as I walked south on Wall Street to 25th. I thanked God for a wonderful time! Once seated in my faithful Malibu, I rejoiced to find that the Starbucks in my mug was still hot!

Taking a Walk in Ogden

Sunday, October 3.

Weeks ago, when it seemed clear that God was directing me to move to Ogden, Utah, I began viewing Ogden on various Internet maps. I scanned the neighborhood where my son lives and found other spots I knew in town. At the same time, I found the Ogden City website and began to read about the community. Then, I used the map to locate a few of the places I had visited and read about in the downtown section.

• The "Historical 25th Street" was easy to find. The street begins at Wall Street, across from the Union Station, and extends two long blocks to Lincoln Avenue. At around 1900 these blocks were packed with saloons, restaurants, pool halls, and hotels, all catering to the travelers passing through Union Station. By the way, the first transcontinental railroad passed through Ogden and the "golden spike" that joined East and West was driven into a tie at Promontory Point, about 25 miles to the north and west.
• Nearby is a plaza that I visited with my family at Christmas-time some years ago; various businesses and organizations created "Christmas Scenes" throughout the plaza, which was blanketed by snow.
• The Municipal Building is located in the large block next to the plaza. This is the heart of Ogden City government.
• One large block north 25th Street is "The Junction", a recently redeveloped section of town where you will find a large theater complex, Gold's Gym, Fat Cats, and a variety of restaurants and recreational facilities.
• One block north of "The Junction" is a large city block containing the Ogden Mormon Temple and the Ogden Tabernacle.

As I scanned the maps, locating these and other landmarks, I wondered what God intended to do with me in Ogden. I had no invitation to serve a local church. There was no job awaiting me. But, I had a growing sense that God had something new for me to do . . . not new for God, but new for me!

As I reflected on the possibilities, I was curiously moved to walk around the center of Ogden. When the Children of Israel entered the promised land, they marched around Jericho on seven consecutive days. Although the parallels between that biblical story and my adventure are limited, I decided to "take a walk" around Ogden.

So, on Sunday afternoon, I had Sandra drop me off near Union Station, and I walked. I walked south on Wall to 27th Street. Then I went east on 27th to Washington Avenue, the main street of downtown Ogden. North on Washington to 22nd I walked. I turned west on 22nd and walked to Wall Street, then turned south toward my starting point. Sandra picked me up about a block from where she dropped me off.

Halfway through the circuit, I realized this would be a longer walk than I had expected. Here are some other impressions . . .

• I was a bit surprised to find myself walking through the edge of what must be a poorer neighborhood.
• I walked within a block of the Ogden Rescue Mission.
• I saw numerous financial institutions.
• I noticed that "The Junction" has a place where you can surf, and another place where you can fly!
• Passing by the Temple and the Tabernacle, I noticed talk iron gates and fences, with security cameras in strategic spots. I wondered, "Are they trying to keep people in, or out?"
• I skirted the edge of a block containing the Ogden Police Department and the main Fire Department.
• I noted that there were numerous empty and/or abandoned buildings of various shapes and sizes.
• There were two taco stands on Washington, in front of the Municipal Building . . . being on a diet and having no cash, I passed by, looking with longing at the taco makings!
• I was pleasantly surprised to find that most businesses were closed on Sunday . . . a refreshing discovery!

As I walked, I prayed. I encountered relatively few people, but I greeted those I met with a smile and a brief word or a wave.

Just as the walk, about 2.5 miles, was longer than expected, I sense the spiritual and practical needs of Ogden are greater than I imagined. I asked God to use me in some way to touch the lives of the people He loves.

THINK

When I was a kid, a long time ago, my brother-in-law Dan worked for IBM. Dan brought me a gift . . . a small, desk-top plaque with a simple message. Bold, black letters on a white face commanded me to “THINK.” I wish I had that valuable piece of memorabilia today!

At that time, IBM was on the cutting edge of modern technology . . . their manual typewriters were really hot! They were so much better than Smith Corona or Remington. Then came the IBM Selectric, a wonderful electric typewriter. You could actually change the type (aka: font) by changing a little attachment smaller than a golf ball! (Kid’s today would have a hard time understanding how revolutionary that was then!) Many of us had IBM desktop computers in the 80’s. “ThinkPad”, their first laptop, was introduced in 1992. Recently, I researched the history of IBM on www.IBM.com . . .

The roots of IBM actually reach into the 1880's. In 1911 the Computing-Tabulating-Recording Company was founded, and they became the International Business Machines Corporation in 1924. That’s when “Think” became their “mantra.” Thinking is the process that enabled IBM to ride the waves of technology. By thinking, IBM actually MADE waves! IBM has survived over 120 years of unbelievable changes in technology, culture, and lifestyle.

Thinking is fundamental to spiritual life and growth. Radical (rooted) Christianity is not possible without serious thinking! A church cannot be “radical” unless its leaders and its people THINK. I’ll tell you why . . .

Most Christians appreciate the necessity of repentance. “Repent” is often defined as “turn around” or “about face.” But Strong’s Concordance defines the word as “think differently” or “reconsider.” When you trace the roots of the word, you’ll find the Greek word for “mind” or “intellect.” I like Dallas Willard’s working paraphrase or “repent” . . . “re-evaluate your plan for living.” The point is, you cannot repent without thinking! When we seriously consider (think about) the the truths of God's Word, the Gospel, or claims of the Lord Jesus, our lives will change! I do not believe repentance is not a one-time proposition. Anytime you read the Bible thoughtfully, you will be challenged to think differently. So, repent . . . THINK!

Paul warned the Romans about being “conformed to the world.” (That’s a warning we need to heed today!) Instead, Paul encouraged the Romans and the rest of us to be “transformed by the renewing of your mind.” The word translated “mind” is the word beneath the meaning of “repent.” Only by renewing or renovating our minds are we able to test and approve the good, acceptable, and perfect will of God! “Renovation” reminds me of those television programs that take a house or a yard and make it new! Our prayer ought to be, “Lord, flip my mind . . . I need a make-over!” THINK!

We have been given a wonderful and amazing gift: The Bible! I believe it is the Word of God. It is “God-breathed and useful for teaching, reproving, correcting, and training in righteousness.” It is a “lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” Psalm 1 says the man who meditates on God’s word will prosper. The Bible . . . we should read it, memorize it, meditate on it, study it, and share it . . . and that requires thinking. If you can read the Bible and not be changed by it, you aren’t thinking! A really radical Christian is one who is rooted in the Word of God . . . THINK!

THINK! Thinking will bring you back to the roots of spiritual reality and make you a radical Christian!

Radical Thinking

Here’s an huge understatement: what and how we think is extremely important.

Our lives are dramatically shaped, deeply affected by our thinking. Perspective can make an amazing difference. Radical thinking can revitalize your life! Consider a few examples . . .

The Apostle Paul suffered amazing hardships as a servant of the Lord Jesus. (Check out the list in II Corinthians 11:23-33.) Yet, a few pages earlier he wrote, “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.” Then, a few lines later Paul expressed this perspective:

“Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. 17For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. 18So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” II Corinthians 4:16-18

Given the challenges Paul faced, he could have been bitter, discouraged, angry, and depressed, but no! He had a radical perspective, a view of life rooted in the promises of God. In Romans 8 he wrote, “I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.” That’s radical thinking!

Stephen’s life was on the line as he stood before the council in Acts 7. His defense infuriated the Sanhedrin; “mad dog” looks were everywhere. Then, God gave Stephen a peak into the spiritual realm. Stephen announced, “Look, I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” That changed his perspective . . . moments later, as they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." Stephen gained a fresh perspective from God. That’s radical!

A few weeks ago I greeted a brother as he walked out of his workplace. I asked, “How are you?” Tears welled up in his eyes as he answered, “I had a conflict with a fellow employee and the boss took his side, my wife is angry at me again. I’m not appreciated or needed at work or at home . . . everyone would be better off if I was dead!” I put my hand on his shoulder and said, “Brother, you are on a mission from God! God put you in that job and God gave you a wife, you’ve got a job to do and you just have to trust God.” I offered a brief prayer and he seemed encouraged. The next day he called me from work and said, “Hey, my boss just asked me to pray for him! I am on a mission from God!” Radical thinking revived that brother!

Radical thinking is keeping our eyes on Jesus, “who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.” Yes, even Jesus had a radical perspective . . . He was rooted in the will of the Father, and that enabled Jesus to live and die. We are beneficiaries of His faithfulness.

We need radical thinking today! Get back to your roots . . . you’ll find them in the pages of God’s word!

I’ll have more to say about radical thinking in the days ahead.

The Radical Church

Roots . . . think roots. Don’t think “extreme” or “wild.”

And don’t confuse “the Church” with the building on the corner where Christians gather, the non-profit corporation, or the organization that promotes religious activities in your neighborhood. If these entities summarize your concept of the church, you really need to think “radical.”

The Church is a spiritual organism including and encompassing all true believers of all generations, races, tribes, and nations through the centuries since Jesus founded the church by His own death, burial, and resurrection. It is equivalent to “the body of Christ” into which every believer is baptized by the Holy Spirit. Get your mind around this truth . . . this is where our roots are! The New Testament provides ample theological insight into this spiritual nature of the Church, and we must embrace those scriptural truths in our quest to be the “radical” Church.

We must continually remind ourselves that the church is not a building. While we commonly refer to attending a Sunday service as “going to church,” that expression is not really accurate. How many times I have I heard this . . . “We’re looking for a church that has children’s church and a youth ministry.” Buildings, gatherings, and ministries may be an appropriate expression of the church, but they do not capture the essence of the real Church! They are not “radical.”

Of course, the Church has an earthly and physical manifestation. While we are spiritually joined together in Christ, we are still physical people “living in a physical world.” So, the very earliest physical or practical manifestation of the church will help us return to our roots and thus be radical. That will take us back to the book of Acts!

I know, you are thinking, “Well, duh!” But listen! Although we regularly read and study Acts, we still seem to miss it . . .

In our practice of “church” today, we tend to value the very things that are conspicuously absent from the record of the early church! There were no church buildings in the early church. It’s hard to tell when and where the church met. There’s no mention of worship teams . . . I can’t find a reference to music in Acts. No youth ministries, no children’s churches, no . . . well, it’s hard to find any of the stuff promoted in church bulletins today in Acts. Oh yeah, no church bulletins! The apostles were woefully ignorant of church growth principles!

And yet, the spread of the good news, the large and varied number of signs and wonders, the resultant multitude of changed lives, and the growth of the church has never been matched through the Centuries since Acts 28.

The roots of the Church are in the Gospels and in Acts, and we must find transferable, timeless truths that will enable the church today to be radical! If we could capture and apply the essence of what was important in the early church, we would abandon our feeble efforts to be “extreme” in order to draw a crowd and grow a church!

We need a radical church today!

Radical Christianity

Radical Christianity.

(Continued from the previous post, “Radical, Dude!”)

Since the first definition of “radical” offered by Merriam-Webster.com is “of, relating to, or proceeding from a root,” real radical Christianity must be that which reflects the biblical roots of Christianity. Biblical Christianity is rooted in the person and work of the Lord Jesus Christ.

The relevant roots of Christianity have nothing to do with the culture of the First Century. We’ve all had fun with the idea that being like Jesus involves wearing sandals and robes . . . I’m wearing sandals right now, but I would like to think that I am like Jesus in more meaningful ways! Many beatniks and hippies of the past were very much like Jesus in that respect! “What would Jesus do?” is an appropriate question . . . “What would Jesus eat?” and questions like it are interesting, but irrelevant when it comes to being a radical Christian.

Being like Jesus is the fundamental issue in radical Christianity. Everyone who claims to be a Christian should have a heart to be like Him in every way possible. Being like Jesus naturally leads us to “do like Jesus.” Christ-like character produces Christ-like conduct. But, those of who have tried to be like Jesus, in character, conduct, or both, know how frustrating and futile such efforts can be. How do we become more like Jesus?

Let’s back up a bit . . . there is a sense in which the roots of Christianity do not take us back to Jesus Christ himself. We must acknowledge that Christianity is rooted in another reality. Acts 11:26 tells us that the first people called “Christians” were disciples. Prior to that time, which was 10 to 12 years after the birth of the church in Acts 2, no one was called a Christian. Most considered themselves Jews who believed in Jesus as Messiah. They were called disciples, believers, or brothers and sisters. As a whole or in groups, they were called the church. Then, someone in Antioch described a disciple of Jesus as a Christian. That term seems to have stuck through the years, but there’s only one other time in Acts that the term is used. So, a quest for radical Christianity forces us to recognize the priority and precedence of discipleship.

Some Christians have the erroneous idea that a being a disciple is in some way distinct from being a Christian; the assumption is that a disciples is someone who has answered a call “above and beyond the call of duty.” Some believe that Jesus only had twelve disciples, and therefore, discipleship must be an exclusive relationship reserved for a “super” Christian.

Considering the sad state of Christianity in much of the world today, a true disciple might be something super. Polls and surveys have shown that the moral thought and behavior of those who call themselves Christians in the United States is not much better or higher than the rest of society! But a Christian should be a disciple . . . and disciples should be dramatically different morally, ethically, and spiritually in comparison to the average unbeliever!

Therefore, a “radical” Christian is one who has embraced the call to be a disciple, for a disciple is one who has entered a learning relationship with a “master” in order to become like his or her “master!” There’s so much to say about discipleship . . . but first, I want to respond to the other question raised in my last blog . . . What is the really “radical” church?

Radical, Dude!

People who call themselves “Christians” really need to be more radical.

That which we call “the local church” needs to be radical too, encouraging and nurturing those who desire to become “radical Christians.”

Fact is, God has been calling me to be radical, dude!

The images from the 60’s and 70’s are still relatively clear in my memory. I still see radical students and professors disrupting universities with rallies, sit-in’s, and various other activities. Demonstrations, fires, and angry people with long hair are in the mix. These images of what “decent” people probably considered lawless and revolutionary activities have been called “radical.”

Radical sports have caught the attention and imagination of young people more recently. Anything involving a young person flying and flipping through the air with some piece of recreational equipment would be considered “radical.”

When a diseased or infected part of the anatomy must be removed by physicians, the procedure might be called “radical.”

All in all, “radical” doesn’t sound particularly positive or healthy . . . so how could a nice, decent guy like me endorse “radical” religion?

I’m not the first to use “radical” and “church” in the same sentence. Recently I read of a pastor who was using radical strategies and events to reach more people. The article described young people riding motor scooters through the aisles inside a place of worship during a Sunday gathering. The same article mentioned the pastor’s recent bungee jump from a considerable height! These and thousands of other activities planned by churches across the country are described as “radical” . . . I’ll just call them “crazy!”

The popular connotation assigned to the term “radical” is “extreme,” “WAY out of the box,” and beyond mere innovation.

I am not promoting bungee jumping Christians or motor scooters in the sanctuary. I have something far more exciting in mind, something extreme in its own way.

If you research the roots of the word “radical” and you’ll find that it is related to the word “radish.” The radish is not one of my favorite roots . . . I prefer carrots! But, the word “radical” and “radish” both share the same root meaning. “Root” is the root of “radical”. Both “radish” and “radical” come from an old Latin word, radix. The first definition of “radical” offered by Merriam-Webster.com is “of, relating to, or proceeding from a root.”
In fact, the popular connotations are in fact radical departures from the word’s true and original meaning!

So what is “radical” Christianity? What is the really “radical” church?

To be continued . . .

Man of a Certain Age

I think I’ve handled growing older fairly well. I look in the mirror and take note of the silver hair . . . silver sounds so much better than gray. The wrinkles and sags . . . I take it all in and tell myself, “You’re only as old as you feel!” Then I remember how terrible I feel! But, all in all, I’ve been fairly calm about my approaching 61st birthday.

I was calm, that is, until Friday. Someone asked to use the phone at the parole office.

“I can’t let you use the phone,” I replied, “but I will make a call for you. Write down the number.”

Having the number in hand I asked, “Whom should I ask for, and what should I tell them?”

I dialed the number. A female answered the phone and I asked for John.

“OK,” she said. She must have turned to hand the phone to John, but I clearly heard her say, “It’s an older gentleman.”

John said “Hello?” and I said, “Did she say ‘older gentleman’?” He paused, and said sheepishly, “Yeah . . .”

Gathering my composure, I delivered the message, and ended the call.

OLDER gentleman! I was not the least bit impressed with the thought that she called me a gentleman . . .

I called my son . . . “Hey, Son . . . do I sound old?” He was kind, but I was not reassured.

I called my wife . . . “Sandra . . . do I sound old?” She said . . . well never mind what she said!

Age. As a state employee, we are regularly reminded that we must be sensitive in our dealings with people when it comes to issues like gender, ethnicity, national origin, physical handicap, age, and other factors. When it comes to employment issues, I am protected. That’s my job with the state . . . the work I do to support my pastoral ministry.

When it comes to the church, we handle things differently. Age IS an issue. Those hiring pastors and staff members need not be apologetic . . .

“You’re 61 years old? There’s no way I’m hiring you to be my Jr. High pastor!”

“Well, we’re looking for a pastor in the mid 30’s with 20 years of experience . . .”

“We really need someone who will reach the young people.” This is frequently the position taken by a church that is full of old people . . . like a “young” guy can turn it all around over night!

As a pastor, I see two attitudes in Churchdom that make me uncomfortable.

First, I see pastors who are looking forward to retirement.

Second, I see churches that think they need a “young” pastor.

Maybe the first attitude is fed by the reality of trying to find a viable opportunity to serve when you have “gone over the hill!”

I don’t understand retirement from ministry. I’ll retire when Jesus comes or when I die. Heaven will be my retirement. I want to serve Jesus Christ as long as I live. Maybe I’ll slow down a bit or assume a ministry with limited responsibility, but retire? Never!

I also believe the premium placed on youth by many pastoral search committees and others hiring ministers is regrettable. Someone has to wake up and realize that enthusiasm and energy are not necessarily lost with age. An “older gentleman” may not work harder or faster . . . but he may work smarter!

So, next time you talk to me on the phone, humor me . . . tell me how young I sound!