17 December 2007

Here we Goooooo

We're mere hours away from our departure. Clan McKenzie will be spending the next month in California. In addition to visiting for Christmas and New Years, we will be connecting with many, many friends and family members. We are praying for relaxation and productivity as we catch up with all the people we hope to see. Some of the highlights we're hoping to have:
  • Quality time with parents/grandparents/siblings/aunts & uncles/cousins
  • Quality time with old and new friends
  • Isabelle Sophia's baby dedication
  • BOWL GAMES!!!
  • Disneyland: Gabrielle will get her first taste
  • Productive fundraising initiative
  • Living for a month in $US, instead of £UK
  • Did I mention BOWL GAMES???
  • Mexican food
  • Sushi
One thing we're not looking forward to, but trusting God's abundant grace:
  • 18 hours of travel with a 2-year-old and a 9-month-old :)
California here we come... right back where we started from!

7 December 2007

The Sacrifice of Fools

For the past few months our (Mosaic) community has been examining the Bible's Wisdom Literature. Most recently we've been looking at Wise Worship as described by the Biblical writer in Ecclesiastes 5 as The Sacrifice of Fools:
Ecclesiastes 5:1-15

The Old Testament refers to several different words and translations for the word "FOOL." Fools are described in these different ways:
  • one who is morally and philosophically gullible - they believe anything easily
  • one whose mind is closed to God (Ps 14 - "the fool has said in his heart, 'There is no God.'")
  • one who believes in God, but doesn't take Him very seriously - such as in this passage. The text specifically says, "When you go to the House of God..." It is admonishing some in the company of worshippers
Regardless of how we publicly acknowledge God, our LIFESTYLE reveals whether or not we really (Really) take God seriously.

Verse 1 concludes with this description of the “FOOL” as one whose Lifestyle betrays just how serious they really are about God:
“Guard your steps when you go to the house of God. Go near to listen rather than offer the sacrifice of fools, WHO DO NOT KNOW THAT THEY DO WRONG.”

The term “Wrong” literally means “EVIL.” This Person does not even realize that he/she is doing evil!

What is the evil they are perpetrating which they are not even conscious of?

It can be found in their lifestyle, which does not back-up their public acknowledgement of God. This is perhaps the greatest deterrent to someone else, and it never seriously considers God either. And that, my friends, is Wrong. And the biblical translation of wrong is literally "evil." And our simple understanding of evil is that it is designed in Hell itself, to prevent the world at large from ever giving serious consideration to God.

Friedrich Nietzsche states in his literary work, The Anti-Christ, "His disciples will have to look much more saved if I am ever to believe in their Savior."

This passage begins with the metaphor of FEET (or our STEPS) in verse 1. In verses 2-7 it moves to the metaphor of our MOUTHS, admonishing us to let our words be few when in the presence of the Almighty. The passage then ends with an address of our HEART, out of which issues the focus of our love.

Verse 10 records it, “Whoever loves money never has money enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied in his income."

How can we possibly portend to worship God and not have it change the way we live out our entire lives, and make our LIFESTYLE altogether different... even in the common, everyday workplace?
It is ONLY POSSIBLE IF WE REALLY DON’T TAKE GOD VERY SERIOUSLY.

And THAT, friends, according to Ecclesiastes is the mark of A FOOL!

26 November 2007

2000 HITS

On June 25, 2007 I installed ClusterMaps, a hit counter that accurately shows the locations of all visitors to this site on a thumbnail map embedded in my page. You may have noticed it at the bottom of the left-hand column of my page. While I can't tell who visited our blog, I can tell where they were when they looked at it.

As of today, We've had 2,001 hits. That's about 500 hits per month. We've had visitors from every continent except South America - the U.S., Africa, Europe, Asia and Australia, but none from S. America. Hey Chile, Venezuela, Brazil, Ecuador... Where are you?

It's kind of weird to think that that many people are checking in with us. It's also kinda' cool.

16 November 2007

CATWALK Fashion Show Benefit for Maggie's Centre Struts Successfully

After more than six months of dreaming, planning, coordinating and preparing, CATWALK only had one thing left to do - happen.

Jasheen and her capable and creative team pulled something off on Tuesday night that exceeded even their expectations. What began as a small event to promote her friend's custom made jewelry line, grew into one of the hippest events the West End has seen this season. A sold out crowd of more than 300 people were in attendance at Oran Mor to see arrangements from Glasgow's up-and-coming young designers.
And they did not fail to impress. The designs were definitely bold and fashion-forward from Harris Tweed's youthful, urban reinvention, to ethereal Celtic wedding gowns that would not look out of place on the Rivendell set of The Lord of the Rings.

The evening's host was Sanjeev Kohli, star of television sitcom Still Game. Kohli was joined on stage throughout the evening by television presenter, journalist and Patron of Glasgow's Maggie's Centre, Kirsty Wark, as well as by television presenter and BBC Radio journalist, Shereen Nanjiani. In addition, two film crews and photo journalists were also covering the event.

On this memorable evening I played proud husband to event producer and beautiful wife, Jasheen. Watching her dash elegantly about the auditorium, walkie-talkie in hand and business expression on her face, I truly felt like a VIP by association. I was the recipient of countless praises for the job she'd done and the exquisite beauty that she is. Truth be told, Jasheen missed the majority of the show due to her coordinating responsibilities... even the unplanned and unwanted pyrotechnics that lit one model's teased afro up like a roman candle.

Small side-story: when one of the young models took her place at the rear of the runway she failed to notice the tea lights positioned on a banister directly behind her. As flames began to dance up from behind her head, the audience gasped and began pointing and shouting. Utterly confused she tried to work out what all the commotion was about. When she finally figured it out, a heroic man in the front row was descending upon her as she was exiting stage left. He began swiping at the flames and quickly extinguished them. The heroic man happened to be one of our sponsors, a director/producer from Sgiandubh Productions.
All of our thoughts went immediately to the young woman and how she must be reacting backstage. Of course she's distraught! Of course she's crying! Of course she views this as the end of her career! We were all wrong! The young model never missed a step. The show continued on after the spectacle with barely a break in rhythm... and so did she. She was in the next designer's line and she reappeared to a packed house of cheers and whistles. In fact, when all of the evenings' models made one last appearance in traditional catwalk format, she was the last model to exit, twirling gracefully and blowing the audience a kiss.

CATWALK's musical guest was friend and recording artist Ashley Ballard, whom Jasheen has known for more than a decade. Ashley sang at our wedding and was all too eager to join Jasheen in this charitable cause.
Ashley opened and closed the evening with musical sets, and will also be performing at next week's STOP THE TRAFFIK benefit to raise awareness about human trafficking.

As the evening came to a close, Sanjeev Kohli asked Jasheen to come up to the stage. Reluctantly, she did and was presented with a floral arrangement large enough to completely hide behind... which is exactly how she preferred it. As the crowd cheered Jasheen's accomplishments, Sanjeev announced that CATWALK had generated nearly £15,000 to contribute to Maggie's Cancer Caring Centre. The event itself generated more than £20,000, but after costs and overhead, the actual figure donated will likely be closer to £13,000. Either way, CATWALK will be making the second largest single donation of the year to the Glasgow Maggie's Centre.

One of the strong undercurrents seen through the various developmental stages of CATWALK is God's hand in all of it. People have been so amazed at what has been accomplished. They have praised Jasheen and I for our hard work and personal sacrifices. They couldn't believe how smoothly the event went. Jasheen and I have had ample opportunity to use the phrase, "It's a God thing." We usually offer the precursor, "I know this may not make sense to you, but..."
Throughout this process, as things have come together; as the unlikely has become likely; as the impossible became possible, Jasheen and I have had the privilege of explaining that a lot of prayer has gone into this and a lot of people, not even involved, have been praying. The only answer we can come up with is that God has blessed our efforts and this event. Apart from Christ we are nothing and can do nothing. In addition to offering financial aid to a worthy cause, relationships have been developed, friendships have been made, and God has looked good through it all.

We are grateful that we had the opportunity to participate in this fantastic event!

10 November 2007

Glasgow Wins Bid for 2014 Commonwealth Games

In an instant, a city went from quiet, nervous anticipation to roars of absolute jubilation. Glasgow celebrated yesterday as the city landed the 2014 Commonwealth Games with a convincing 47-24 majority vote over Nigerian capital Abuja.
This is a huge boost for Glasgow, both in morale and financially. After years of visits and formidable opposition, the city has won hearts and minds around the world. Not only does this give Glaswegians something to celebrate and look forward to, but it also gives a strong sense of national and civic pride.
The games are also predicted to give a £1 billion boost to Scotland's economy.

To read more about the 2014 Commonwealth Games click here.

23 October 2007

Book Review: TrueFaced


I'm going to do something that I've never done before in a book review. Actually, I'm going to to do a couple of things I've never done, but the first thing I'm going to do is say:

Whatever you're reading right now, put it down. Get yourself a copy of TrueFaced and make it the very next book you read. Dallas Willard says, "TrueFaced is one of the best books on practical theology I have ever seen."

TrueFaced, by Bill Thrall, Bruce McNicol, and John Lynch, addresses the most basic motives faced by every follower of Jesus: the distinction between our determination to please God or to trust Him. Thrall and Co. draw on the metaphor of two rooms in our pursuit of God.

The first, at the end of a well-traveled road, is the Room of Good Intentions, entered by turning the knob of Effort. This room is filled to capacity with tired, cynical, well-intended Christians sporting various masks, who are determined to work on their sin to achieve an intimate relationship with God. These folks are sincerely determined to be godly. No one in this room is interested in hearing about your struggles, trials or failures. To be welcome here, one must hold their cards pretty close to their chest and give the appearance of sufficiency and that everything is fine. I'm fine, you're fine, we're all fine, fine, fine all the time, time, time.

The second room lies at the end of life's path with the motive of Trusting God. The path to this room is definitely less worn than the other. In this room, inhabitants have embraced the concept of Living Out of Who God Says I Am. To enter the Room of Grace, one only needs turn the doorknob of Humility. In this room, people have cried out, "Alright, listen! I'm not fine! I haven't been fine for a long time. I feel guilty, lonely and depressed. I'm sad most of the time and I can't make my life work. And if any of you knew half of my daily thoughts, you'd want me out of your little club. So there, I'm doing not fine! Thanks for asking!"
Instead of working on one's own sin to achieve intamacy with God, in this room, people stand with God, with their sin in front of them, working on it together with Him.

The goal of TrueFaced is to help us discover the freedom that lies in allowing ourselves to be authentic before God and others, trusting them with who we really are. A prayer one might pray before entering the Room of Grace might go something like this:
God, if anything good is to come out of this whole deal, you will have to do it. I can't. I'm so tired. Please God, you will have to give me the life I am dreaming of. I can't keep doing this anymore. I'm losing confidence that this life in you is even possible. Help me. You must make it happen or I am doomed.

We've all been part of a community, a church, or a small group where we've felt the pressure of presenting a strong, fine front. One where we don't have the freedom to share sin or failures; where we have to put on appearances and pretend we've got it all together. Sadly, these groups are far more common than the alternative. The effect is subtle, but grossly counterproductive to introducing people to the Kingdom of God. For reasons too numerous to count, Christians have fallen prey to the lie that we must appear fine, strong, good and often, productive. We don't want people to know we're flawed. I've said this before, however, that in my experience, my flaws and imperfections serve only to draw attention to the fact that I NEED a perfect father. Those that appear flawless, often draw perceptions that something's not entirely right, and make genuine, authentic connection near impossible.

One of the primary postures you must take when reading TrueFaced is to understand that this book is for YOU. Don't read it with others in mind. God can do precious little in establishing an intimate relationship with you if you're thinking of others while reading this book... that I can almost guarantee will, at times, feel like it's reading directly to you.

I mentioned that I was going to do a couple of things that I've not done before in a book review. The second is that I am going to follow my own suggestion and pick it up... again. I'm going to re-read TrueFaced with you. Do you have any of those books where you've worn a highlighter out reading it? This is one for me. This is the kind of book that I could read over and over again. I want to so thoroughly grasp the concept of a truly trusting, grace-filled relationship with the Father, that I will read, read and re-read this one for years to come. I hope you get the same from it that I do.

8 October 2007

The Week in Review

Wow, what a week! This entry is going to be all over the place as so many different things are happening in so many different arenas.

First of all, Grandmother McKenzie is here in Glasgow offering her help and support... but really just soaking up precious time with her granddaughters. She arrived just in time for Gabrielle's 2nd birthday. That's right... we have a terrible-two (year-old) and she had a cracking good birthday. On a day that called for rain, we stayed dry as Gabrielle and friends enjoyed a party at the park. Friends from church, toddler's group and the neighborhood joined the celebration of her birth. Mommy made lots of yummy sandwiches and chocolate truffles and... (get ready for it) daddy made the cake!!! It may not have been quite the extravaganza that her 1st birthday was (60+ people in our little flat), but it was loads of fun, nonetheless.

You may also remember an entry I posted over a month ago about our friend Sally, the woman who was struggling with the prospect of losing custody of her son, Nathan. When I spoke to Sally I prayed with her that day and then told her that I would continue to do so until we saw each other again. Last week Jasheen and I were out on date-night and we were strolling on one of our favorite little streets in Glasgow (Ashton Lane), when we bumped in to none other than Sally. Upon recognizing us, the first thing out of her mouth was, "Are you still praying for me?" We told Sally that we were and then she tearfully shared how things were going. We asked Sally to come to church with us the next day just to get around some people that could genuinely care for her and perhaps pray for her circumstances. She did... and she really enjoyed it. She was immediately welcomed and embraced and within moments of arriving was in the middle of a prayer circle. What a blessing and answer to prayer! Not only is Sally enthusiastic about coming back, but she's also going to get involved in our monthly river clean-up of the Kelvin River through FORK (Friends Of the River Kelvin).

Which leads nicely into this next segment. FORK is a small way for our church to both connect with and appreciate God's creation, as well as forge relationships within the community with like-minded people. Because we believe that God made the world, loves it, and entrusts it to the care of the human society, we as a church through this missional expression are eager to support care for creation. One of the things we're trying to do as leaders is cultivate active participants in the Christian community. It's so easy to fall prey to a consumer mindset and become content attending church as passive observers (I know I've slipped into that from time-to-time), but we want the Christian community to be vibrantly active in engaging the culture around us. FORK is one way that we, as a collective, can do that. Gabrielle and I have been going on Saturdays and have thoroughly enjoyed it. In addition to countless bags of rubbish, we also extract the likes of partially submerged shopping carts and car tires. This past week Gabrielle enjoyed her time with friend, Sophia Kurtyka. Getting dirty can be pretty fun... even for a couple of dainty little girls.

As you can read in my previous blog entry, CATWALK continues to blossom as November 13th draws near. In addition to sponsorship, CATWALK is already receiving media exposure as Scottish newspaper, The Herald, ran two related articles in last Wednesday's paper. By 9:00am on the day the articles hit news stands, phone call orders for tickets began coming in. Jasheen picked up the promotional posters yesterday, but they will only serve as publicity now as there are only 32 tickets left for purchase. AMAZING! Almost 270 tickets have sold for the event before advertising has begun. The things that have come together for this event are nothing short of miraculous.

Possibly the most abstract and bizarre event currently going on with our family involves Gabrielle. I'm acquainted with a local casting agent (Gail) that deals mostly in modeling and television. Upon seeing pictures of Gabrielle earlier this week, she has cast her in a local television program called River City that shoots here in Glasgow. Following in the footsteps of her Uncle Patch, Gabrielle will be throwing her hat into the acting ring and making her small screen debut in River City's Christmas episode as one of the children going to sit on Santa's knee. That is... if she doesn't take one look at Santa, scream and run off the set. When dealing with two-year-old actors, you never know what you're going to get. Gabrielle and I ran into Gail this afternoon and after seeing Gaby in person, Gail stated with excitement, "I'm going to make a star out of you. You're good enough to eat!"

Please pray for grandmother's health during the next two weeks that she's here. She has been battling a pretty bad cough, fever and sinus infection. She came to offer assistance to us, and feels awful that she hasn't had the energy to do as much as she would like. We love her all the same and she probably has no idea how much assistance her mere presence provides. We do want her to thoroughly enjoy her time with the girls though. These are precious seasons for grandparents and we want her to enjoy every minute of it.

To see more photos of Gabrielle's birthday, grandmother's visit or FORK clean-up, you can go to our flickr site by clicking on the Photo Album link in our LINKS section to the left of this entry - or just click here.



26 September 2007

CATWALK Update

There are several new developments in the upcoming benefit that Jasheen is directing. First of all, the event has been fashionably named, CATWALK. Secondly, and more importantly, CATWALK now has full-fledged corporate sponsorship! Harris Tweed Textiles will be co-sponsoring the event along with Sgian Dubh Productions Ltd. (pronounced: skee(a)n doo). Iain McLean, a producer with Whisky Galore Films Ltd. and Sgian Dubh Productions Ltd. is a friend that I get together with every Tuesday night. After weeks of pitching the event with he and several of his colleagues, they have agreed to be the primary sponsor of CATWALK. This is a huge answer to prayer.

To recap, CATWALK is a fashion show for up-and-coming young designers in the west end of Glasgow, and 100% of the profits will go to Maggie's Cancer Caring Centre, a non-profit organization that provides care for anyone who has, or has had cancer. They also assist their families, their friends and their care-givers.

Here is a first look of the poster that will be going up around the west end to promote the event:


It has been exciting to watch all of this come together. Jasheen has put forth so much time and effort into this event, and with full sponsorship, the fruits of her labors are beginning to show. I must confess that there were times I thought she'd taken on more than she could handle, but I should never have doubted her gifts, talents and resourcefulness.

Jasheen, along with her team, has already sold 150 tickets for the November 13th event... and advertising hasn't even begun. At £25 per ticket, it's already a success.

Attendants of CATWALK will enjoy a live musical performance by singer/songwriter Ashley Ballard, a guest appearance by actor/comic Sanjeev Kohli (star of sitcom Still Game), and will be hosted by Scottish journalist/television presenter Kirsty Wark, and Scottish television presenter Kaye Adams. Attendants will also receive a free door gift, and have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and a raffle. Auction and raffle prizes include two tickets to the 2008 T In The Park, round trip airline tickets on Zoom Airlines, and free dinners at local west end eateries, to name a few.

Other contributors and participants of CATWALK include: Elements Productions, Origins Skincare, Model Team Scotland, All Talent UK, Oran Mor, Colours Management/The Look, Starbucks Coffee, and Raspberry Design.

For information on ticket purchases, contact Elements Productions on 0790 096 8530

24 September 2007

Post-Christendom Christianity

A young pastor I know here in Glasgow is preparing to give a talk at his church on Post-Christendom Christianity. I'm not sure how relevant this topic is in the North American church, as I'm not quite sure that America has become a Post-Christian culture yet, but Scotland (and Europe, for that matter) is very much in the throes of it.

To begin with, "Post-Christendom" is a term used to describe a personal world view, ideology or society that is no longer rooted in the language and assumptions of Christianity. Thus defined, a post-Christian world is one where Christianity is no longer the dominant civil religion, but one that has, gradually over extended periods of time, assumed values, culture, and worldviews that are not necessarily Christian.

The pastor is reflecting on where we've been:
  • Constantinian Christianity - a Christianity which operates from a Christendom mindset with the key characteristic being POWER
...to where we are:
  • Post-Christendom Christianity - a Christianity which operates from an early church mindset with the key characteristic being ????
He has had an abundance of input and feedback to fill in the ????, and is still wondering what Christ-followers of today would say the key characteristics of Post-Christendom Christianity should contain, some being: authenticity, community, flexibility, relational, intergenerational, marginal, sacrificial and subversive.

I rang in with my tuppence and shared that for some time, the emerging Christian generation has been banging on about 'community,' something I've had extensive involvement with. During my ministry I've been a part of the post-modern generation discussion that has occupied the thoughts, books and seminars/conferences of emerging pastors and missionaries. I have had the notion that in 50 years time, the post-modern, post-Christian, post-whatever generation of that time will reflect back on our generation as the era where Christians worshiped at the altar of 'Community' as a self-serving, self-fulfilling clique that promoted safety and sameness. I appreciate the value of 'community' for its biblical context, but often wonder if it's run its course as a definitive term for Christian togetherness.

The key characteristics that seem most relevant to me are authenticity, relational, mission and fundamental.

When operating in a post-modern context it is crucial that we, as leaders, be authentic. One friend that I've worked closely with in the last year put it like this, "Post-modern youth are born with authenticity radar and won't put up with people who don't live what they preach." Our words have a very short shelf-life with people of the post-modern generation. If they don't see words accompanied by action, the power of the Gospel is lost on them. Erwin McManus catches this fundamental issue when he says, "What I said on Sunday wasn't nearly as important as what I did."
Our grand vision, values and inspiration are for naught if they're not lived-out in the context of mission. We can even learn some things from pop-culture. Why are characters like Harry Potter and Jason Bourne so endearing? Why has James Bond's character been reinvented? Why were audiences so taken with Frodo and Aragorn? People are drawn to and relate with flawed heroes. Perfection in any context is not believable.

Closely related to authenticity, is the need for us to be relational. This means believers, saints, brothers and sisters of the faith inviting non-believers into the intimacy of our home setting; breaking bread with them; intertwining our lives with theirs. This means being transparent before them. If we keep people at arms length, we may be able to maintain the veneer of perfection, but we will make precious little headway when it comes to inviting them into a life with Christ. We must be comfortable with our weaknesses, our fears and our failures. This is how people will best relate to us and understand our need for a perfect Father... and theirs.

I said fundamental in the context of the fundamentals of our faith - scripture, prayer, discipleship and mission - as in Acts 2. In a post-Christian society where we model our lives and practices after the early church, we must, as a collective, dive into God's word together; worship and cry out to God together; and build-up and equip one another for the purpose of returning to the battlefield together on mission.
Reading scripture together is good. Worshiping and praying together is good. Discipling and equipping others is good. But none of it is GREAT unless it is for the purpose of sending one another out to love and minister to a lost world. Collective reading and praying is the equivalent of a farmer tilling the soil. It's only necessary if he is then going to plant the seeds, work the land and harvest the crops. The tilling (praying) is necessary, but if it's not followed by action, all he's done is turn the soil over and let it breathe. It's still just dirt. 'Community' is impotent if it does not culminate with MISSION.

So these are my thoughts on ministering as the church in a post-Christian culture. I'd love to hear yours!

22 September 2007

Parenting & Helplessness are Virtually Synonymous

Few things reveal our cracks, flaws and inadequacies as much as marriage and parenting. When Gabrielle was born I had a glimpse of how God loves His children. Holding that precious, fragile life in my hands and knowing that her need for me was so great... even if she herself had no idea. I was reminded of our Father's love again when Isabelle was born 18 months later. But recently I got to identify with another of God's parenting attributes - Grief... amidst his children's suffering.

Isabelle was admitted to Glasgow's Yorkhill Children's Hospital on Thursday afternoon and diagnosed with croup, a respiratory virus/disease that afflicts infants and young children. The symptoms (fever, sinus infection, "barking cough") are caused by inflammation of the larynx and upper airway, which restrict breathing and lower oxygen levels. The doctors decided that it was best to keep her overnight for observation and make sure that she didn't take a turn for the worse.

Nearly seven months old and already spending the night in hospital - not a place parents expect to find themselves so soon after their birth. What made it even harder was watching Isabelle labor to breathe and struggle to get sound sleep. Her wheezing and subsequent pain in her throat when she coughed was heartbreaking.

Being the primary source of food, Jasheen elected to stay overnight with Isabelle. The isolation unit they kept Isabelle in was furnished with a bed for parents. I had to return home with Gabrielle so she could eat, sleep and question where mommy and sissy were. "Mommy and Sissy have to stay at the hospital," I explained, "but we can pray for them and ask God to heal sissy and let her come home tomorrow." There's nothing sweeter than the prayer of a two-year-old... even if it's relatively unintelligible and scattered with distractions of hiding behind the curtains and feeding dolly a sip of milk.
Jasheen's evening was less endearing... and less restful.

The prayer chain extended beyond our immediate prayer warriors and we received multiple email-words of encouragement and prayer. Thankfully, Isabelle is resting here at home now and showing marked improvement in both her breathing and her emotional health. She's smiling, sleeping and feeding again. Praise God!

It's these experiences that put life into perspective. All the petty things that occupy our thoughts and fuel our anxieties fall to the wayside, and we discover the things that really matter... and are reminded how grateful we should be. I have a wife that LOVES me and her children very much. I have two beautiful, healthy girls that light up whatever rooms they're in. I have a God that loves me even more than I love each of them... and He anguishes when I suffer. I have family and friends that love, care and support us... and they are there for us whenever we need.

Thank you all for your prayers and well-wishes. It was a real source of comfort and encouragement.

31 August 2007

Book Review: Pagan Christianity

The Origins of Our Modern Church Practices
An explosive treatment of the history of church traditions

syn • cre • tism [sing-kri-tiz-uh m]
-noun
  1. the attempted reconciliation or union of different or opposing principles, practices, or parties, as in philosophy or religion.
If you've ever wondered why we Christians do what we do for church every Sunday morning, then this is the book for you. I'm not talking about the theological reason(s) that we do what we do. I'm talking about the traditions, the methods, the practices.

Why do we "dress up" for church? Why is there a sermon every week? Why are their pews, pulpits, church buildings, choirs, and seminaries? Where did all these things originate?

The unofficial title of this book could have been,
The Book No Pastor or Priest Wants You to Read, partly because it challenges just about every facet of what we've come to know church to be, but not to be overlooked is the chapter entitled, "The Pastor: Thief of Every-Member Functioning." Frank Viola makes a bold proposal: That most of what we Christians do in our churches has no root in the New Testament, but rather has been borrowed or adapted from pagan culture long after the 1st century church was established.

If you really consider Viola's claims, it makes sense. The persecuted followers of Jesus, establishing a movement that met in house-churches and catacombs, surely didn't just think up the idea of a pulpit or a steeple... or even a building to meet in for that matter. It wasn't until Constantine mainstreamed Christianity as the official religion of the Roman Empire did the practices we're familiar with begin to take shape.

One of the reasons I would recommend this book is that it's scholarly without the magniloquence of a text book, and it offers a fair assessment of church history - corroborated by some of the most extensive footnoting I've ever seen. Viola clearly did his homework on this, and has done the body of Christ a huge service by providing a truthful glimpse at things we've come to consider "sacred" or "holy," that are only considered as such because man dared call his own concepts "ordained by God," when there is no such biblical evidence.

Personally, I don't think Viola is condemning all of our practices in and of themselves, but more presenting a challenge to those Christians who are content with status quo "churchianity," as he puts it. And ultimately I think he's calling us to look at what the church has become as a result of some of our practices. In essences, his claim is that the model that we've embraced and accepted as the
biblical church model has actually yielded some pretty unbiblical looking results. A refreshing aspect to Pagan Christianity is that Viola doesn't stop with exposing the truth about the church and it's potential flaws, but offers biblical alternatives to how we can participate in a powerful movement as the body of believers.

Reading
Pagan Christianity will help equip you with the knowledge necessary to recognize potential religious manipulation and deception. But more than anything, it will remind you that nothing other than Christ should be at the center of your individual and body life - not religious institutions, traditions, programs, clergy, or formulas. Christ alone must be preeminent.

Pagan Christianity is the third book in a five book series on radical church reform that examines the modern church, church-planting, apostolic ministry, and spiritual training for Christian service.






Taliban free all Korean hostages

The last seven South Korean hostages held by the Taleban in Afghanistan have been handed over to the International Committee of the Red Cross.
They were released in two groups, within the space of a few hours, late on Thursday.
On Wednesday, 12 of their fellow Christian charity workers were released after a six-week ordeal.


The Taleban seized the group of 23 last month as they traveled by bus on the main highway from Kandahar to Kabul.
Two male hostages were subsequently killed.

Again... I don't know what else to say other than praise the Lord!

More on this story here.

29 August 2007

A Typical Day in the West End...

Yesterday began as a relatively typical day in the West End of Glasgow. Not that my girls are usually sick, but I awoke to a couple of sick girls in our flat. Jasheen was struggling with a sinus infection and Gabrielle wasn't herself. I decided to stay home for the morning and lend a helping hand.

I took Gabrielle to Yorkhill Children's Hospital in the afternoon to see an orthopedic doctor to discuss her in-toe (pigeon toes) to discover if it's more serious than we think and can explain her incessant attraction to the ground - she falls a lot... she's almost two. All is fine with her legs... turns out, two-year-olds fall quite often and about 90% of in-toeing corrects itself as leg-strength increases.

While we were out I decided to stop by the local post office to pick up a package that they weren't able to deliver initially. On our way we crossed paths with my friend, Charlie, who manages the local Starbucks. We stopped to chat for a bit and we lingered as Charlie dotes on my girls and I tend to like that. A little further up the road we ran into my friend Nigel from the gym. We chatted about his work (doctor) and his dying car, and promised to hook up for a chat soon.

Once we arrived at the PO I realized why they were unable to deliver the box - we were home, mind you, but we've discovered that when packages are large, the postmen don't even bother bringing them with them. They just slide a slip through your mail slot that says, "Sorry we were unable to deliver your package - No Answer." We received a large box of clothes from a dear supporter who has kept my daughters dressed to impressed since Gabrielle was born. I had the tandem stroller and a massive box to trek about a half-mile home. Behind me in line was Sally. Sally is a sweet woman we know from the park. She has a couple of dogs that love Cole and they romp about in the park together regularly. Sally observed my struggle and caught up with me at the cross-walk and said, "Give me the box. I'll walk it home with you." I responded, "How about you push the pram, and I'll carry the box." She agreed.

I silently thanked God for providing help at this point and thought how wonderful it was to have Sally cross my path for this very occasion. Typical. God hadn't brought Sally across my path... He'd brought me across hers. She proceeded to share with me (fighting tears and anger) that the government was forcing her 17-year-old son to move out of her flat. He suffers from a mild case of autism and living with her increases his stress levels (according to counselors) and he needed to live on his own - with a disability at 17!!!! In short, she shared that they can't find a place that will approve him as a tennent, he's unable to stay with her and is temporarily staying with his aunt (Sally's sister) where he is subjected to pornography on television and his days have become nights and vice versa. If they're unable to find suitable accommodations for him he will soon be homeless... apparently that's more appropriate to the government than living with his mother. She described every single angle she'd worked, to no avail. She loves him dearly and can't bare the thought of him being homeless - a very common condition for many in Glasgow.

"It sounds to me like you've made every logical, legal and practical effort to sort this out," I said to her. "Perhaps the only thing to do now is pray."

"I've tried that," she said. "I don't think God hears me."

"He hears you, Sally." She started to cry.

"I think God has a plan for me," she said, "but I just don't know what it could be. Why is He not answering my prayer?"

I briefly explained to her my understanding of God's plans versus our plans and how despite their differences at times, He is always working for our good... to bring us closer to Him, not necessarily to sort out our problems.

"Can I pray for you now?" I asked. She really began to cry. "Please," she said through tears. I prayed for her and committed to continue to do so until the next time I see her. "When I see you next, I trust that your report will be better," I closed. I told her that Jasheen and I are available to talk whenever she'd like... and to pray more with her too.

I dropped off the box at home and took the girls to a local coffee shop for some daddy/daughter(s) time and to feed Isabelle - yeah, I'm ambitious and a little stupid. Two girls out with dad at meal time. I got us some drinks and settled into feeding Isabelle when out of the corner of my eye I saw Gabrielle tumble from her perch atop a chair and use her head to break her fall on the coffee table. It's the hardest fall I've seen her take, and everyone in the coffee shop heard it. Panicked, I set Isabelle into the pram and rushed to a screaming Gabrielle. I fully expected to see blood, but to my surprise and relief, there was just a terrible knot over her right eye.

After some consoling and cuddling, Gabrielle calmed down and I continued feeding Isabelle - she ate ALL of her baby rice.

Doctors offices, local friends, a prayer for the faint-hearted and a coffee shop catastrophe... just another day in the life of the West End.

23 August 2007

Secularists, what happened to reason?

I recently participated in the online comment chat roll following the story about the Skate Church (Deeper) in my last blog. I wasn't surprised at the negativity surrounding the
issue of American missionaries operating in Scotland. What got me was the approach taken by the anti-religious, atheist and secularist participants in the chat.

Critical thinking might be to secularism what faith is to devout religious believers. Thinking rationally, questioning assumptions, tolerating differences and rebuffing the black-and-white - these are the cornerstones of the secular world view and a pivotal part of what separates them from religious people.

Why then, when it comes to discussions of religion, do so many secularists abandon critical thinking altogether?

Renowned atheist writer, religion scholar and Georgetown professor, Jacques Berlinerblau, recently put it, "Can an atheist or agnostic commentator discuss any aspect of religion for more than 30 seconds without referring to religious people as imbeciles, extremists, mental deficients, fascists, enemies of the common good... conjure men (or) irrationalists?"

My recent experience would have to reveal that no, they're incapable of such a feat. A common thread throughout the discussion was to send these manipulative yank, do-gooders back to the colonies.

One such comment stated: "Watch out for Evangelicals. They're extremely simplistic and very emotional... they're against same-sex marriage, abortion and thinking." The American missionaries were referred to as "ignorant charlatans, a plague, eejits/idiots, deluded superstitious fools, morons, pestilential priests," among other such descriptors.

For a group of thinkers that pride themselves on rational thought and civil discourse, this behavior is inconsistent and unbecoming of a school of thought that emphasizes rational complex thinking - and has little to offer its practitioners when it comes to the value of an open mind. And trust me when I say that this comment roll was not populated by the denizens of ignorance. References or quotes from the likes of Karl Marx, Daniel Dennett, Albert Einstein and John Knox were included. In fact, one guy even got into a dispute with me because I challenged his claim that Daniel Dennett (prominent American philosopher at Tufts University) developed the concept of (the) skyhook... when everyone knows that it was Kareem Abdul-Jabaar's indefensible basketball shot. :)

But sadly, this is how this conversation (and others) tend to go when secularists take up the conversation of religion. The tendency has, perhaps, reached an all-time low with the appearance of best-selling book, Christopher Hitchens', God is Not Great: How Religion Poisons Everything.

My point is not to demonize secularists or atheists. There is enough of that already. According to a USA Today/Gallup Poll conducted last February, fewer people would vote for a well-qualified atheist for president (45%) than an African-American (94%), a Jew (92%), a woman (88%), a Hispanic (87%), a Mormon (72%), a thrice-married person (67%) or a homosexual (55%).

It would be unfair and unreasonable to equate secularism with immorality or insufficient patriotism. Though secularists would do well to listen to Berlinerblau, one of the few atheist voices calling for secular engagement with religious believers and more rigorous understanding of their religions/beliefs.

True, many religious people behave in foolish and obnoxious ways, and some do cause harm in the name of their belief system. But stereotyping and generalizing on either side is not going to fulfill a productive agenda for anyone - for Christians, it's not going to reflect the love of Jesus; and for secularists, it's not going to challenge unthinking idealists to examine what's truly behind their faith.

It's not my place or authority to hold secularists to their own ideologies any more than it is their place to hold me to a biblical standard, but is it too much to ask that we simply engage one another with a bit of passion AND civility? Although it defines itself in opposition to religion, surely secularism is capable of understanding that religion is more than simply irrational indulgence and supernatural fantasy.

Secularists put their "faith" not in God, but in the sound aptitude of the human mind. It's disappointing when they discard their defining faculties and resort to thoughtless name-calling and brutish intolerance. It's a shame to see them throw out their greatest tool.

12 August 2007

Skate Church Makes the Front Page

Several months ago I was in Tinderbox, a local coffee place near our flat, and I met Dave Reasbeck. He overheard my American accent and decided to engage by asking what I was drinking. It was a Vanilla Icebox and they're awesome! I began telling him what I was doing in Glasgow and Dave responded very enthusiastically. "I'm a missionary too, dude!!!"

Dave has been here in Scotland for the last seven months, and he only just left this morning to return to the States to work out his visa situation so he can stay in the UK indefinitely. Dave is a semi-pro skateboarder who has been working alongside Bob Hill, a missionary-pastor ministering in Scotland for the past 13 years. Together they share the teaching times at Deeper, a skate church planted to reach Scotland's youth culture.

But as I said, I met Dave a few months ago and we hit it off almost instantly. We began meeting together pretty regularly once, sometimes twice a week. Much of our time is spent discussing the Bible, a book we're reading together (Pagan Christianity by Frank Viola), or ministry. But I think the thing we love to talk most about is the shape and shaping of the future church. Not church in the sense of a building or model, but the bride itself... the body of Christ. We can chat for hours about our love for those that don't yet have a relationship with Jesus; how we feel most fulfilled and most utilized when submersed in the culture around us, looking to bring Jesus into every encounter we have.

The Lord has really been blessing Dave's ministry. It's not uncommon for 120 young people to show up on a Thursday night to skate the largest indoor skate park in Britain and hear stories about a guy called Jesus. The real reason for this post, though, is to mention that The Scotsman, a Scottish newspaper (obviously) ran a Sunday Edition front page story on Bob, Dave and Deeper. Just thought there might be some interest in a story about one of the young guys I'm hanging with, discipling, coaching, etc.

That's Bob Hill in the center of the picture (above), and Dave is behind him "bustin' some fat air."

Picture of me and Dave at Kelvingrove skate park. Gabrielle in foreground.

Incidentally, our first meeting at Tinderbox was a significant encounter for Dave that made an impact that has stayed with him to this very day. The only thing he orders there is the Vanilla Icebox.

7 August 2007

Isabelle is 20 Weeks

Isabelle Sophia turned 20 weeks old on Sunday - wow, five months! She continues to be our angel baby. She is so full of joy and peace. Like her sister, she is a routine child, but that may be the only similarity they share. Never does she wake from a nap without a smile. She is always so happy to see us standing over her cot.

She is getting stronger and more aware of her surroundings every day. She is grabbing things and studying her hands a lot. She loves to kick and punch when she gets excited, and she also loves when we help her stand. We can leave her on her mat or in her rocker for extended periods with scarcely a sound from her. Although she loves engaging us, she is very content entertaining herself.

It's hard to describe in words, but holding her is like holding love. Even when I pick her up to take her to her mother for a feed, I don't want to give her up. The other day she received the third and final round of her infant immunization shots. The following day she struggled to keep milk down and she ran a fever, but even then she was pleasant. Many babies become irritable and difficult to console when running a fever, but all it takes with Isabelle is holding her.

We praise God daily for both of our girls. They are healthy, bright, beautiful and full of joy. We are also grateful to those of you that keep them and us lifted in prayer.

Blessings and Thanks!

31 July 2007

Christian Aid Workers Killed by Taliban

Twenty three South Korean Christian aid workers are being held hostage in Afghanistan. Two of them have been executed; more details here. I don't really know what else to say at the moment apart from pray that they would be set free. And yes, pray for other hostages that don't make the news.

30 July 2007

A Little More on Jasheen & the Benefit

In light of the developments surrounding the benefit that Jasheen is organizing (see entry below entitled, 'An Event Worth Talking About'), I thought I'd share this brief email that she received from one of the women working closest with her on the event:

Hi J,
I feel so guilty leaving you for a few days with the mountain of work you are doing for the benefit. Don't tire yourself out please, but it is truly amazing what you are doing. The others have no idea of the effort you are throwing at this event.
Take care and I will phone you next Monday to see how things are.
Love Bridge

The Lord seems to be showing Jasheen so much favor as she moves forward with this exciting event. She has won the hearts of some pretty amazing women in the West End. Last Tuesday night she gathered with six of them to discuss details surrounding the event, and the conversation led to what we're doing here. Once it was established that I am a "God Man," Jasheen shared with them our ministry and what we're doing here. It's been so cool to see her weave in and out of conversations about the event and our faith. It's interesting to hear their impressions of Christianity (and Christians) and observe as they learn that some of their own preconceptions may not be entirely accurate.

Jasheen still needs much prayer surrounding all aspects of this event. She is in the process of raising the necessary funds from local businesses and philanthropists in order to pull the whole thing off, as well as serving as a representative of Jesus. The Lord has truly provided the avenues and settings for Jasheen to shine in her gifting and in her faith.

I continue to be so impressed with and proud of her. I have come to know my wife as... my wife, and a wonderful mother, and it's been easy to forget that she is an incredibly accomplished and intelligent entrepreneur. Please keep praying for her and the women she's working alongside.

26 July 2007

Eastern Orthodox Prayer


O Lord our God,
at your coming you set men free
from the worship of other gods;
by your miracles you taught us to
acknowledge you as the one creator
and only maker of all things living,
and to place our hope in you;
protect us by the power of your Name,
sanctify us by your truth
and pour out your mercy upon us
and upon all your people.

For you are our God,
the God of mercy and salvation,
and we glorify you,
Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
now and forever,
to the ages of ages. Amen.

20 July 2007

An Event Worth Talking About

You know those people that can just make things happen? They put their minds to something and regardless of the scale, they can convert dreams into reality. I'm not talking about a snazzy seasonal party or a modest music recital, I'm talking about a shin-dig that draws local TV networks, journalists and even celebrities. I am not one of those people, but my wife is.

A few months back Jasheen began sharing an idea with me to help promote her friend Ann's individually handmade jewelry. She saw that Ann had a lot of potential, and wanted to help her friend stand on her own two feet. Last November we hosted a jewelry party for Ann and she sold £500 worth of rings, necklaces and brooches. Far more than she ever expected. That was nice for an in-home gathering, but Jasheen wanted to really get Ann's name and product out there. She imagined a proper gala to showcase Ann's creations to all the West End of Glasgow.

What began as a relatively small, but public function (with me as the emcee) has literally exploded into what may turn out to be the largest single event of its kind that the west end sees this year. Jasheen began building her team to execute the necessary functions required for the event - mostly local women in our neighborhood and a couple of her piano students that have turned out to be very well networked and very resourceful. Brainstorming sessions led to a much larger scale event, and instead of promoting Ann exclusively, they decided to help launch the West End's new, young faces in fashion design, as well. Further brainstorming and networking led to the event becoming a full-scale benefit for a local West End Cancer Caring Center. The goal is to keep it all local; to bring in the arts, creativity, and really show Glasgow's potential as Scotland's cultural epicenter.

Jasheen's team consists of two well-known local journalists, a charismatic actress, and a successful marketing guru. They have grand visions of a formal event including food, drink, designers, models, hair & makeup artists, celebrity guests & entertainers, door prizes, raffles, and of course, corporate sponsorship. And as it is her brainchild, Jasheen is organizing and overseeing the entire production.

One thing after another has fallen into place. Oran Mor, meaning the 'great melody of life' or 'big song', is a cultural center and meeting place in the heart of Glasgow's West End that has agreed to comp the use of their venue for the function. BBC Scotland will be contacted to cover the event, and models are already responding to Jasheen's request to lend their services free of charge. Several agents of Scottish actors have been or will be contacted to discuss their clients' appearances and involvment in the event, and an up and coming recording artist from the States has already agreed to come and perform. And so much more is still in the works. It seems that every time Jasheen shares her vision with someone, the Lord has already paved the way for their involvement or their network.

The event will take place on November 13th and has already garnered the interest of print and television media. It is a benefit for Maggie's Centre, a non-profit organization committed to helping people living with, through and beyond cancer.

A strange and pleasant phenomena has occurred since Jasheen began this journey... I've met the young woman I fell in love with, dated and eventually married. This has breathed new life into her. I see her passion and excitement growing everyday. Jasheen is a philanthropist at heart. She has always loved serving others and helping them achieve their potential.

There is an awful lot of effort and leg-work that needs to happen for this to be successful, and although it has completely re-energized her, Jasheen could use a lot of help, prayer and support. This is more than a benefit for people with cancer. It's more than a showcase for local talent. It's more than a project for Jasheen. This is an occasion to bring people we've grown to know and love together; to work in synergy with our friends in the community; and for God to be glorified in a missional endeavor to love on and serve all those involved.

When she began sharing all of this with me, I thought it was a beautiful dream, but it would take an exceptional kind of person to pull it off. Realistically, it's just not going to happen. I mean, I'm certainly not one of those people that makes these things happen...

... but then, we're not talking about me, are we?

PS: As more aspects of the event are confirmed, I will be sharing and updating as to the who's and the what's involved. Until then, I'll not speculate or titillate with big names or personalities.
:)

16 July 2007

An Apology

Someone left a comment on my last post that I feel should be addressed. I've removed it because I think allowing readers to post anonymously sets a bad precedent and is irresponsible. However, I also believe in the blogger interface and want readers to have the freedom to share their views. I just don't want to endorse cowardice, and when there is no accountability people can 'courageously' share anything they wish.

The following comment was in reference to the last point on my "Glasgow: What's (not) to Love?," entry:

"maybe if you took some time to talk to them, you'd find out that's not the statement they're making at all. stereotyping is a great way to do ministry. nice job."


It was not my intent to stereotype the youth I mentioned in this point. And despite the immature, self-righteous and sarcastic tone of the comment left on my blog, there truly is no place for generalized assumptions in ministry. Incidentally, I have spoken with several of these kids and quite honestly, my heart breaks for them. For that reason alone, I issue this formal apology to them:

To the numerous "death-rocker, goth-kids" faithfully reading my blog that I alluded to in my previous entry,

I apologize for making such a crass generalization about the statement(s) you may be making through your attire. It was reckless of me to assume that sporting T-shirts of bands like, Cannibal Corpse, Christian Death, Obituary, Napalm Death, Suffocation, Slayer, Nuclear Death, Rigor Mortis and Massacre, could in any way be considered a preoccupation with death or evil.
Although music is one of the most prevalent methods of establishing identity among youth today, I should have been more sensitive to you as a collective.

Just because someone wears a crucifix does not necessarily mean that they are a follower of Jesus. In the same sense, perhaps your pentagrams don't indicate a fascination with Satan. Either way, it's not for me to ascertain.

Please accept my apology and know that I value you as a part of this culture and society. In this day and age of political correctness and cultural sensitivity, I will try to be more careful when addressing specific genres of people.


That is all.

:p

15 July 2007

Glasgow: What's (not) to Love?

My last entry outlined some of the things I love about this city, but like any major metropolitan city, there's plenty not to like too. Something I read in today's Sunday Times (Scotland) reminded me that there's a flip side to this city as well. The following list ranges from the petty to the downright tragic:

1) It would be negligent not to mention that Glaswegians smoke and drink too much. Scotland tops most lists in these two addictions, and as a result are among Europe's leaders in health related illnesses.

2) There is still a fairly heavy undercurrent of sectarianism in this city, and it can usually be identified by which local football side you support - Rangers (protestant) or Celtic (catholic). I was advised early in my stay here not to support either side... for my own health. The separation along protestant and roman catholic lines isn't as strong as it used to be, but it still very much exists, and it defines a large part of what is bad about this city.

3) I'm annoyed at all the trash and dog poo on the walkways and streets. Glasgow really is a beautiful city, and it's clear that civic hygiene is not much of a priority to its inhabitants.

4) While we're not exposed to this side of its underbelly on a day-to-day basis, Glasgow is an extremely violent city. The article I read today branded Scotland as western Europe's "murder hotspot," and two-thirds of those murders happen in Strathclyde (Glasgow's county). The ratio of stabbing incidents in Glasgow compared to those in London is 19:1, and if you're stabbed in Glasgow you're more likely to die from your wound than in any other city in Europe. There is no scientific explanation for this, but theories state that it's likely due to the force and aggression behind the assaults that make it so serious.

5) The separation between the haves and have-nots seems to be increasing here. While there is no shortage of good, quality housing in the city, there is a shortage of good, affordable housing, and this leads to many people still living in poor, cold, damp conditions.

6) There is a very dark presence among the youth in this city. I've never seen so many death-rockers, or goth-kids gathered so numerously in one location. On any given day (especially weekends) it's not uncommon to see hordes of teenage kids gathered together in city center donning black clothing from head to foot, adorned with skulls, pentagrams, and black makeup. There is no question that the desired statement they're trying to make is, "I am evil and I'm consumed with death."

5 July 2007

Glasgow: What's To Love?

"Glasgow: a place where some are born great; where some become great by living here; and where some still chuck spears at buses." - Anonymous

Inspired by an online blog-chat, I thought I'd take a few moments to share with you what I love about the place we've called home for the past four years.


1. First and foremost, I love the people. Glaswegians, as they're called, are renowned for their hospitality and friendliness. They tend to be very approachable, and are just as eager to give you directions as they are to walk you to your destination themselves. They love to laugh and possess a sharp wit. There is definitely a sense of social justice amongst the people, as could be seen when the tsunami decimated the Indonesian islands, and with the mass involvement and awareness surrounding ONE: The Campaign to Make Poverty History.

2. Glasgow has some great museums - the best of which is the Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. There's also the Museum of Transport, and the People's Palace and Winter Gardens. All of which contain hours of intrigue and entertainment! And the best part - they're FREE!

3. Glasgow is not known as the "dear green place" for nothing. It has more gardens/parks per square foot than any other city in Britain. A huge part of the west end is taken up by the Botanic Gardens, a favorite place for our family to go on a nice day.

4. I love that Glasgow is so centrally located. Get on the train in any direction and before long you'll find yourself at the ocean, Hadrian's Wall, Stirling Castle or in the Highlands. We're a mere hour's flight from London, and 45 minutes from Edinburgh by rail.

5. I love the feel of the city. Glasgow is Britain's third most populated city, but I've come to describe it as having a "village feel" to it. I don't know of any other city where you can stroll around the city centre (downtown) area and regularly run into people you know. This aspect creates an intimate sense of community among the inhabitants.

6. At first glance you wouldn't think that the urban context would be all that child-friendly, which makes this another reason why I love Glasgow - particularly the west end. In order to create a place where families can flourish in urban-life, people have to go to greater lengths than they do in suburban contexts. We've found Glasgow to be very accommodating to young families... or more specifically, families with young children. Other than ample opportunities to plug into mum's groups, toddler groups, and children's music classes (all of which we have greatly benefited from), there are also places like The Loft and The Grosvenor that cater to families with young children. On the surface, The Loft is just another hip restaurant/bar for the upwardly mobile elite. Converted from the west end's old theater house, The Loft is now a thriving hot-spot on evenings and weekends, but during the day, The Loft creates a great environment for parents to bring their kids... going so far as to provide Fisher-Price cars for the kids to tear around the giant wooden floor on. The Grosvenor, a theater sharing the same building, offers a "watch with baby" feature every Thursday for the first showing of the day. This provides an opportunity for parents to see movies too (provided their infant is 12-months or younger).

7. When praising Glasgow, you can't avoid highlighting its music scene. From 80s rock-legends David Byrne and Simple Minds, to contemporary alt-rockers Teenage Fanclub and Snow Patrol, to indie pop bands Belle and Sebastian and The Fratellis, to post-punk quartet Franz Ferdinand, and post-rock instrumentalists Mogwai, Glasgow has been producing a vast array of musicians and bands that have left their mark on today's music scene.

1 July 2007

"Terror Related" Attack on Glasgow International Airport

It's sobering when something like this happens in your own city. I've never really considered Glasgow to be much of a target for terrorist activity. London, sure. New York, a given. Los Angeles, of course. But Glasgow? Scotland???

Two men were arrested after ramming a burning car into the airport's main terminal, a day after police thwarted two attempted bombings in the capital.

Police said one of the men wore a "suspect device" and the incident was being treated as terror related.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown urged the public to remain vigilant.

"I know the British people will stand together, united and resolute," he added.

More on this story can be found at the BBC NEWS website.

29 June 2007

Weir Good Lads Gather

I met Dave Weir about four years ago at the gym. He was just a wee 17 year old student at Glasgow University, and was recovering from a major shoulder injury. Our friendship eventually grew out of the gym and into going to movies and hanging out every once in a while. I asked Dave to start going to church with me and ultimately to join a Bible study at my flat with another friend (Johan) from the gym. That was about two years ago, and we've been going strong ever since. Dave recently graduated from Glasgow Uni and is about to embark on an extraordinary adventure. Tomorrow morning he will leave Glasgow for about a month and head to France to cycle the Tour de France route. Since we met, Dave has lost nearly 8 Stone (about 112 lbs.) and has become an avid endurance athlete. Over the past month we've been spending time studying the Psalms and Dave has adopted several passages as motivation to endure and overcome difficulties and trials. He'll find a way to fix some of these passages to his bike for those moments in his ride when he feels like giving up or slowing down.

This morning was perhaps our final Bible time together for a long time. When he returns he'll only be here for a week before heading down to England to begin his post-graduate studies. As our time came to a close my friend Stuart Weir arrived for my second meeting of the morning. "Maybe you guys are related," I joked. As they made their introductions they discovered that, in fact, they are 2nd cousins. How bizarre... two young Scots livng in Glasgow's west end all this time and they only just met and discovered they're related. It was pretty cool to see this happen in my kitchen... cool and mildly sad since Dave leaves tomorrow and only returns to Glasgow for a brief stay. I will be tracking Dave's journey through his blog on MySpace, and will be praying for him daily. Dave has come a long way as both an athlete and a young man, and I'm very proud of him, but I'll miss him too.

Here's a few pictures from our flat, Weir good lads gather.


Me & Dave












Me & Stuart

26 June 2007

ANNIVERSARY: Three Years Down, Forever to Go!

Jasheen and I celebrate three years of marriage today! And what a three years it's been. From our first month of marriage, it has been non-stop. An international move, two beautiful daughters, and a change in ministry later, we feel like we've crammed about 10 years worth into three.
An anniversary means celebrating the gifts and blessings of another year; growing together through the trials and challenges of another year; reflecting back on the really good memories (and some not so good) of another year; and most importantly, it means another year shared with the love of my life.
Marriage is likely never what one would expect; you're probably never exactly where you thought you'd be, but the truth is, it's better and more rewarding than you ever imagined, AND it's harder and more challenging than you'd ever have thought.
Throw parenting in to a young marriage and you have some of the most significant growth and learning opportunities known to man.

...and we're still here... loving, crying, laughing, playing, praying and growing together.
But one thing's for sure, there is no way that I'd be the man or the father that I am, nor would I be able to do the things I do without my loving, tolerant, gracious and gorgeous bride.

Thank you all for your care, concern and prayer for our marriage, our ministry, and our family!

Three years and counting...

24 June 2007

McKenzie Blog Back Online!

After more than six months of internet silence, our family blog is back online. We've undergone some serious transformations and transitions since our last entry, not the least of which, the arrival of Isabelle Sophia. Born at the Queen Mother's Hospital on 18 March at 10:15am, Isabelle is a healthy and happy baby. Gabrielle has welcomed her new little sister with joy and enthusiasm, as have her mother and I. You can find pictures of this glorious occasion at our online photo album, in the March set.

Another big change, in case you haven't heard, is that after serving with CRM/nieuCommunities for more than seven years (four here in Glasgow), we've made a transition to Christian Associates International, the organization we originally came here to partner with four years ago. We're excited to continue our ministry calling to Scotland with CAI, and we believe that from a gifting and philosophical standpoint, we are more capable to fully carry out the ministry that God has called us to do.

Jasheen and I are grateful for the invaluable learning and growth experiences we've had with CRM, and for the opportunity they have given us to serve the Lord with them in Scotland.

Our transition will be complete as of 31 July, and CRM will process our funds until 9 August. All gifts received thereafter will be returned. To continue supporting us in ministry and transition your current giving from CRM to CAI, or to begin partnering with us financially, please visit CAI's Giving page for instruction on how and where to begin sending your gifts. And of course, we are more than happy to answer any questions that you may have if you'd like to email them directly to us.

Jasheen and I are deeply grateful for the loving and faithful ministry that we receive from our generous donors and prayer warriors. One would have to be in a situation like ours to truly know how precious and valuable those gifts and prayers are that allow us to fulfill our ministry in this spiritually desperate place. We're so grateful for the friendships, care, and willingness of others to be involved in our lives and ministry.

23 June 2007

Book Review: A Tale of Three Kings

A Tale of Three Kings: A Study in Brokenness - Gene Edwards

One glance at the back cover and I wondered, "Why haven't I read this yet???"

"Many Christians have experienced pain, loss, and heartache at the hands of other believers. To those believers, this compelling story offers comfort, healing and hope."

This story addresses those facing the pain and brokenness that result from unfair treatment by other believers, and promises to provide encouragement through this powerful story about David, Saul, and Absalom.

This book is a very insightful retrospective examining the contrast in character quality found in three Old Testament kings: Saul, David and Absalom. You may be familiar with the story of these three kings (found in 1 & 2 Samuel), and you'll be surprised at how relevant the lessons learned from these character studies are today.

Reviewing how David coped with an insane king that tried to kill him, and a vain, narcissistic son that tried to usurp him (both of which nearly succeeded), is an amazing study in God's love, grace and wisdom.

But keep in mind, this IS a case study in brokenness. This is next-level-faith type stuff. The patience, surrender, reverence for God and faith in His will that David displays in these situations is not easily attained or executed. In fact, it's completely counterintuitive to how we (and those around us) may expect us to behave.

At the same time, the revelations that wash over you as you read this book and the profound perspective this story can offer you will likely change your life. As Edwards says himself, you may not like the questions this book raises, and you'll probably like the answers even less, but this book is a must-read for anyone interested in any kind of leadership in Kingdom-minded service.

4 January 2007

2006: The Year in Review

We received a Christmas letter from some friends this year and they let their son write it. Mommy and daddy were inspired so they thought it would be neat if I did it too. So this is our year in review in my (Gabrielle's) words:

January: We started off the year with an amazing trip to Singapore to see my Nai-nai and Tha-tha - that's mommy's parents. One of our dear friends gave us something called frequent flier miles for daddy's ticket, and grandmother & granddaddy in California bought mommy's ticket as a Christmas present. It was so fun and I got to fly on my first airplane. I don't think mommy and daddy had very much fun though b/c I didn't sleep very much. But I loved it and got to know everyone on the plane because daddy walked me up and down the aisles for most of the flight. I'm a Glasgow girl, so Singapore was very hot for me. All of my friends and relatives there were so nice and generous with me and gave me lots of nice gifts. My favorite part was celebrating Chinese New Year!!!

February: We returned from Singapore to very cold weather - which I'm used too. Daddy did something very crazy... he fasted for two weeks!!! He lost 16 lbs. and weighed the same as he did when he graduated from high school. He was skinnier and looked much younger.

March: Mommy did something new this month. Daddy had to go away for three days up to Inverness for a meeting for his ministry's curriculum. Mommy took care of me all by herself, and though it was hard, she did a good job and we really enjoyed girl-time while daddy was gone. It also snowed really hard this month and Glasgow got its most snow in 30 years. I didn't really know what to think about it though... it was very cold and wet.

April: Mommy enrolled me in my first music class called Colour Strings. We had so much fun. We listened to music and did fun exercises to the music. I think I'm going to be like mommy and be a musician. I love music and singing! We also went to Amsterdam to see our good friends, the Grafs. They're missionaries there and mommy and daddy got married at their farm. That was my second airplane ride and it was better because it wasn't as long as to Singapore. The Grafs loved on me and mommy and daddy a lot and we had a great time. I can't wait to go back!

May: The weather started getting warmer and mommy and daddy took me and Cole to the park a lot. I loved watching all the kids play on the playground and all the doggies running around.

June: Mommy and daddy took me on another airplane ride to California where I got to see grandmother, granddaddy, Aunt Jenny, Uncle Tom and my cousins, Nico & Molly. We went there to attend CRM's world wide staff conference at daddy's alma mater, Westmont. Mommy and daddy also got to go to something called a Romance Conference at Hume Lake. Granddaddy was the speaker, but I don't know very much about romance.

July: Mommy and daddy had so much fun showing me off to all their friends in California. Everyone was so nice to me and loved on me a lot. We also got to go out to Palm Desert w/ Troy and Kristina Pierce and I got to play with their son, Owen. He's BIG! Oh! We also had my dedication. Granddaddy performed my baby dedication and lots of people came to celebrate. We had a Bar-B-Q and there were lots of kids and presents for me!!! I loved California. I woke up every morning and hung out with grandmother for about an hour while everyone else slept in. We really bonded and she showed me how to point at things and water all her plants. Oh! And one more thing: mommy and daddy found out that I'm going to have a little brother or sister. Yea!!! I could really use a playmate. Cole keeps running away from me.

August: We had to leave California and go back home to Glasgow, but the weather was really nice and we got to go to the park some more. This time, mommy and daddy let me get in the little-girl's swing. I love to swing. It's so fun! Daddy had to start preparing for the new participants. He got a promotion and became the Glasgow Director. He really loves his ministry!

September: This was a big month. I turned one-year-old and mommy and daddy had a big party for me. More than 60 people came to celebrate with me and I got tons of presents. I also got to eat a fruit tart - which was the first time I had something called SUGAR. I really liked it and smeared it all over my face. I got some of it in my mouth too. The participants also showed up this month and daddy was working a lot. Mommy had to watch me by herself again for three days when daddy went on a Listening Retreat with the new participants. They spent three days in silence listening to God. I don't even know how to spend three minutes in silence, so that's impressive to me.

October: Yea!!! I started walking this month. I love to walk. I also love to dance to the Fimbles on TV. Mommy also started letting me play the piano. I love the noise it makes when I bang on the keys. The days got shorter and it started getting cold. But that's okay with me because I have lots of warm clothes to bundle up in. People have been so kind to give me lots of clothes! Daddy got to fly back to California for a wedding. His friend Nate and his wife, Becky, flew him home so that he could co-officiate the wedding - whatever that means. He was home for a week and mommy had to take care of me by herself for the longest time yet. Oh yeah, and mommy's belly started to get big. The doctor said that she thinks it's a girl, but only 75% sure... boy will mommy be shocked if it's a little boy!

November: This was a really special month because grandmother came to visit from California. She didn't even tell us that she was coming. She just surprised us by showing up at the front door. Mommy and daddy were shocked! Mommy even started crying... but she was happy. I don't get that, but I guess it's a good thing. Grandmother bought me a rocking horse as an early Christmas present and I love it! This was a big food month. Mommy and daddy hosted an evening for all the staff and participants and they made Pad-Thai. We also celebrated Thanksgiving, even though it's not a holiday in Scotland. We had a huge turkey and grandmother made a delicious thing called cranberry sauce. We invited lots of Scottish friends to celebrate with us and they really enjoyed it.

December: I really like December. I didn't remember Christmas last year, but I really like it! I love all the decorations and the lights. Daddy also turned 34 this month - which means that he's older than Jesus. He had a nice birthday party with some of his friends here. I got a stocking for Christmas and a little table and chairs that me and mommy sit at to color and read books. I say lots of words now... my favorite words (other than 'Momma' and 'Daddy') are: Nose, Eye, Hot, No, Hi, Bye, Daggy (for Cole), Shees (shoes), Moe (more), and Ubiquitous... just kidding. I also just string a bunch of sounds together that sound like talking, but mommy and daddy have no idea what I'm saying. Mommy's tummy is HUGE... daddy says she's as big as a house, but mommy just smiles and shakes her head. I can't wait for my little sister or brother to come in March!

Well, that's the year through my eyes. It was a really good year and mommy and daddy say that it was filled with God's goodness and his blessings. If you want to see pictures from our year - lots of me getting bigger - you can click the link on the right side of this page that says, "Photo Album," or you can log on to: http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrisandjasheen// to see all the pictures we took this year.

Thanks for checking out my first Blog entry. We're looking forward to another great year and can't wait to share it with you again!

Bye-bye!