Olympic Fever: Catch It 2

Posted on June 12, 2012 by revkennydickson

As long as I can remember I have enjoyed watching the Olympics.  I have a few memories of the 1968 Olympics from Mexico City, especially Bob Beamon’s crushing of the long jump record by several feet and establishing a record that stood for over two decades. As a 10 year old I remember being transfixed with the entire world when the Israeli athletes were taken hostage and murdered.  I was watching live when Jim McKay told everyone, “they’re all gone.”  I shuttered then and I still get goose bumps when I see replays of that horrible event.  As with every Olympiad since 1972, I will pray this year the only controversies will be faux pas, bad calls and claims of biased judging.

One of the reasons I enjoy the Olympics are the wonderful performances and backstories of the athletes.  Anyone who saw the 4X100 Men’s swimming relay 4 years ago in Beijing still remembers the amazing comeback and .07 of a second victory by the USA team which allowed Michael Phelps to win a record 8 gold medals.  In every Olympics there are athletes with amazing stories of overcoming injuries or other obstacles in life and getting to the highest stage.

The other reason I am an Olympic watcher is for the variety of sports many of which I hardly ever see, and a few I have never even heard of.  Has anyone heard of Olympic handball? It was first introduced in 1936, then dropped and not reinstated until 1972.  While I watched my share of Wide World of Sports as a kid, I don’t remember having seen that sport, which looks like water polo played on a basketball court, sans water of course.  It was not until I found it during a previous Olympics that I was able to enjoy this wild and crazy sport.  I have seen cycling in the Olympics and occasionally between games, but I had never watched much BMX cycling, the “high flying, extreme, they’ve got to be crazy,” cycling till it was added to the Olympics in 2008.  I don’t know much about it, but I will watch it.  I also did not realize that hockey, aka field hockey, was the oldest known sport utilizing a ball and a stick.  They say it goes back to when shepherds used their crooks and hit rocks out in the fields. I guess the shepherds deemed not good enough to be hockey shepherds invented golf so they would have something to do with their crooks and rocks.  Who remembers that trampoline is an Olympic sport?  The cynic in me wonders how they will televise it through those blue safety nets that I see around neighborhood trampolines, and I assume the participants had a waiver signed by their parents so they could jump on the trampolines. Yet if I come across it, I will watch it.  When I was a kid we had a ping pong table in our living room, before we could afford real furniture.  While we had some pretty wild games, they couldn’t of course hold a candle to the amazing contests that will be coming out of London.  I can’t wait to see if “roundhouse” has been added to the ping pong, excuse me, Table Tennis events, but regardless I will watch it if I can catch it.

While some of these sports may be easy pickings for late night comedians or early Sunday morning preachers, what is really impressive is the dedication all the athletes have in preparing themselves and becoming the best in the world in their respective sports.  Whether it is gymnastics or any of the lesser known sports, the competitors have spent thousands of hours practicing and practicing.  Parents and or coaches have spent similar amounts of time driving, teaching, pushing and comforting.  While each contestant was blessed with certain abilities in their sport, it was only dedication and disciplined practice that got them to London this summer.  As children of God, we have been blessed by being created in the image and likeness of God.  Think about that, God’s image and likeness is a part of us, not unlike the skills and abilities of Olympic athletes.  However unlike the athletes, God’s likeness and image is in everyone.  Unlike athletes these gifts do not get better or stronger with training and discipline, but what does happen is our ability to recognize God’s image and likeness in us and others is enhanced the more time we spend with God in prayer, worship, and service.  Trust me, the amazing things the athletes are able to do when training is accompanied by talent pales in comparison to the amazing changes in life, and indeed the world, that occur when God’s image and likeness in us is accompanied by disciplined study, worship and prayer and other spiritual disciplines. While I cannot hope to succeed in athletic endeavors, the discipline and dedication of the athletes can and will inspire me to be more disciplined to all areas of my life including, and most importantly, my discipleship.

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“The Day That Changed the World” AKA “The Resurrection and Reasonable Doubt”

Posted on June 9, 2012 by revkennydickson

Easter Sermon 2012. Lately some of us need a reminder of the promised possibilities God offers and the power of  resurrection faith.

http://r.b5z.net/i/u/10092240/m/Sermon_120408Easter.mp3

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The “Jaws of Discipled Life”

Posted on June 7, 2012 by revkennydickson

Last year I attended a Dallas Film Society screening of “Jaws” with a friend of mine.   This was the last of a series of films selected by Dallas Morning News film critic Chris Vognar.   I had not seen the film on the big screen since I saw it at the Inwood Theater when it came out in 1975.  I have seen it or parts of it countless times on video, but the opportunity to see it on the big screen in a theater with others was one I could not pass up.  Whenever I see films that I am used to watching at home, I am amazed how different the experience is when watching it in a theater with a crowd.  The first time this reality hit me was when I saw a “3 Stooges” festival while at SMU in 1984.  Like most kids in the Dallas / Ft. Worth area who grew up in the 60’s and 70’s I “Stooged out”  via Slam Bang Theater every morning before going to school.  I still remember how surprised I was to hear other people laughing with me in the Granada Theater at the antics of the Stooges.  Hearing a couple of hundred others laugh with me made the Stooges even funnier.  (Yes I did see the “3 Stooges” this year and I had a little bit of that same feeling hearing people, including now my son, laugh at the same antics offered now by new Stooges.)  Last year watching “Jaws” and hearing others react to the scary parts and funny parts, yes there was humor in this the first “blockbuster,” enhanced the viewing this very familiar film and made it a better experience as I saw things and made connections that I had not made in the countless, earlier viewings.

A similar phenomenon exists in worship and faith.  While personal worship, study and communion with God is essential, there can be no substitute for communal worship, experience, and relationship with God. In short we gain and grow more in our faith journey when we experience God together.  When we see and hear others express their faith by singing songs of faith, praying the Lord ’s Prayer, reciting creeds, offering  confessions, and experiencing the sacraments of baptism and communion our faith is strengthened in a way that is different when we pray, sing, or affirm our faith alone.  While faith is personal, in that each of us has our unique relationship with God, it is not private.  As God is community, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, so we, as children of God and disciples of Christ, should be present and active in our community that is the Body of Christ, the Church.

P.S. When I was trying to watch the Stooges as a child I met considerable resistance from my parents and older sister.  Thinking back I should have lifted up to my fellow “Preacher’s Kid” sibling the Trinitarian aspect of the trio.

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In Case You Missed It Film Review Series: “War Photographer”

Posted on May 29, 2012 by revkennydickson

With the recent murders of foreign correspondents James Foley and Steven Sotloff we are reminded the danger war correspondents accept in their determination to report on wars and conflicts and in so doing share the suffering these bring to so many. I have reposted a review of a film that captures the heart of those who risk their lives to tell these important stories.

Watch “war photographer” trailer here. DVD’s may be purchased through Amazon or First Run Features.com

“war photograper” is a powerful 2001 film that takes viewers on a journey into the belly of hate and cruelty that are war and extreme poverty zones. James Nachtwey is perhaps the most influential war photographer of his generation. With a 25 plus year career documenting the effects of conflicts throughout the world, Nachtwey is the Lou Gehrig of war photographers, the “iron horse” in a profession known for high burnout and casualty rates. From Palestine to Kosovo, to Indonesia to Ground Zero, James Nachtwey has captured the images, and reality of human suffering, cruelty, and tragedy inflicted upon persons by rulers and warlords who bid others to do their fighting. The overwhelming majority of these victims are innocent men women and children.

Watching this quiet Academy Award nominated film directed by Christian Frei, one cannot help but see Nachtwey as someone called to his profession. Nachtwey has given up much in his life so that the story of persons, hurt by the greed of others through combat or poverty could be told. He has put his life on the line time after time so that the suffering of others would not be in vain and that other people would know the full measure of what, thousands of miles away, may be but a headline. For the people Nachtwey documents, there are no partisan arguments based on right or left ideologies, only consequences and suffering. In the world captured in Nachtwey’s cameras, policies are not things to be debated; they mean and bring life or death, abandonment and suffering, and rescue or refugee camps. This film, and Nachtwey’s pictures dare persons not to put aside political and personal ideology in the name of doing what is right, and for that reason alone, this is an important film to watch and share.

Nachtwey’s dedication to his vocational call challenges Christians to remember and examine their avocational calling into ministry.  What is our commitment to Christ’s call to serve Him by serving others?  Is our passion and commitment to our discipleship and ministry calling comparable to the calling of Nachtwey and other war correspondents to inform the world to the suffering of others?  Are today’s disciples willing to minister even when that ministry requires true sacrifices of time, talent, comfort or worldly wealth?  War correspondence and photo-journalism is not a career of convenience, and neither is the calling to discipleship and ministry. 

James Nachtwey’s story is powerful because it is a story of someone who discerned his gifts and purpose, and then gave of himself completely in using those gifts to pursue excellence in fulfilling his purpose. Christians are expected to respond to the calling of Christ in the same manner, using the abilities and resources with which God blessed us without reservation.

In viewing this film it is quickly understood that atrocities cannot be fully captured and communicated through words. To be fully comprehended they must be experienced, if not in person in pictures. While this film is anything but easy viewing or escapism, through watching it one can be informed of what is happening to other persons and families throughout the world and apply pressure to stop such hatred fueled suffering. Also, the film allows viewers to vicariously be present with, and prayerfully supportive of, the subjects of this film and those currently suffering in other war and poverty torn areas. Lastly, viewers of the film will be beyond grateful that they and their loved ones, and the vast majority of persons in their life circles will never have to live in such atrocity, poverty, fear and anguish.

James Nachtwey’s Acceptance of his 2007 TED Award

James Nachtwey’s Website and Gallery
http://www.jamesnachtwey.com/

Note* While I recommend this film, I also highly recommend all persons, especially ones who love or appreciate film to make efforts to watch documentaries.  These are perhaps the most important yet underappreciated of all films

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Olympic Fever: Catch It

Posted on May 25, 2012 by revkennydickson

As a child I loved to watch the Olympics, winter or summer. Maybe it was the flags, the big crowds, or the medals, but I always looked forward to them since the first games I really remember, the 1972 games in Munich. Of course the Munich games were the most tragic. The images of the masked Palestinian terrorist and the memory of Jim McKay reporting the deaths of the Israeli athletes, “they’re all gone” are seared into my memory.

I think what appealed to me about those and subsequent Olympics was seeing people push themselves to excellence, to be the best they could be and perhaps the best in the world. I also enjoyed the stories that ABC ran showing the personal stories of the athletes, especially the ones from other countries, how their lives were similar and different to mine. Another attraction was watching sports that were not always shown in the United States, or ones that usually did not penetrate my football centric interests. I still remember being mesmerized by the weightlifting and the stature, strength and speed of the great Vasily Alekseyev from the Soviet Union. Also from The USSR was the unforgettable Olga Korbut and her revolutionary performances in Gymnastics. I was amazed at the splendid athleticism of the track and field athletes. The speed, stamina and form of the track athletes as well as the form, heights, and distances of the field athletes, especially the pole vaulters and long jumpers, amazed me. Finally, from those ’72 Olympics, who could forget the perfect style and beautifully smooth strokes of Mark Spitz’s swimming to 7 gold medals. I remember thinking and saying, “how could anyone swim that fast?”  I think I thought the same as I saw Michael Phelps 4 years ago do the impossible and be even more perfect than Spitz.

When I was younger I was focused on country medal counts, wanting for the USA to win more than the USSR and for allies of the US to win over Iron Curtain rivals. Today, I guess I take the Pauline approach in that there are no longer American or Russian, German or Japanese, just athletes and those who appreciate the lifelong dedication and discipline that have led them to the peak of human performance. I want to see athletic excellence and top performances as athletes push the envelope of human possibilities just a bit further. I am always motivated and think, if they can succeed in their endeavor, how can I do more in mine.  Such is the spirit of the Olympiad.

I recently ran across an article telling about some long since discarded sports, and thought I would open the floor to debate. Show which of the below would you most like to see returned to its former Olympic event glory, and comment on your favorite Olympic moments and memories.

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The Joy of Jury Duty

Posted on May 24, 2012 by revkennydickson

I had jury duty the other morning. I seem to have an aura around me that attracts jury invites. Two days after I received this jury summons, I received one from Wichita County, my former home. In all I have received 7 jury summonses and been on 2 juries, one civil and one criminal. I was on those juries prior to entering the ministry which I have learned is why I was on those juries. An attorney church member once told me that I would likely not be chosen again, because I was one of the P’s, preachers, politicians, painters, and plumbers, who are never chosen for juries.

As always, there was great moaning and gnashing of teeth by the hundreds of people who had been called for 1. having to be there, and 2. the prospects of being selected for a jury. I heard at least a dozen times people joking about making “hanging” comments in hopes of getting off the hook. Apparently this verbiage has become ritualized in the lexicon of the judicial system, similar to church goers saying “and also with you,” whenever they hear “the Lord be with you.” Frankly, I got tired of hearing the whining.

As an observer of people and process, I always enjoy jury duty as I get to see an amazing cross section of people all of whom are out of their element. Yes it takes time, but I think it is fascinating to see people and see how the legal system functions, how it is similar and different to the system portrayed on TV and in the movies. As someone who speaks publicly, and hopefully persuasively, I also enjoy the presentations by the attorneys, how they read and connect with the panel members etc.  But, even if people do not share these interests, I think the tired stereotyped sentiments and comments are unfortunate. As much as we as potential jury members don’t want to be there, I am sure that none of the defendants, plaintiffs, victims and families want to be there and would much rather be almost anywhere else. Fortunately, the people on my panel, and the panel’s and juries I have been on before, took the process seriously and were very engaged in the Voir dire process.

It sounds sort of sappy but it is true that we are in the distinct minority of people who have the privilege to serve on, and be served by, juries.  It is a hallmark of our judicial system, a system that separates us from the vast majority of nations.  On this week before memorial day weekend, it is a very small price to pay compared to the ultimate price many men and women over the centuries have paid so that we could have the protection our society based on the rule of law provides us.  Jury duty is a service we should glad to offer our community.

These thoughts on the joy of serving naturally reminded me of the honor it is as Christians to serve Christ.  As adults we are not compelled to give service and time to  God and Christ’s church, and about the only hammer some have hanging over their heads is guilt about what their parents would think or say about an inactive church status, it is none the less an honor and a privilege for us to serve.  I have mentioned in sermons before the honor it was to serve as a Presidential political appointee.  I would think, and hope that anyone would be honored to serve the President in any capacity. Yet as much of an honor that is, and was to me, it pales in comparison to serving God in the ministry all Christians are baptized into.

Two of my prized possessions are photos of me shaking the hands of that President I served and a future President; even as I know they were auto-penned. I remember the occasion when I met them.  I got up very early, shined my shoes, put on my best suit, endured several security checks, and waited for some time. I did not think twice about the hassles I had to go through to get into their presence.  I have also seen people spend hours in the rain waiting to see the President’s motorcade go by.  Yet as special as these photos and the memory of being in the presence of these two men are, or the thrill it is to see a Presidential motorcade go by, they pale in comparison to being in the presence of God.  God, the creator and sustainer of all things, not only allows me, but wants me to come into his presence through worship and service.  Unlike my meeting the Presidents, no one needs to introduce me to God.  God knows me and loves me and blesses me continually.  Unlike those Presidents, I can communicate with God anytime I want to.  God always takes my call whenever I take a few short minutes to contact him through prayer. As I often say when the offering is received during worship, all that we have is given to us by God.  Yes I have a duty to God, and unlike the county or state, when I don’t fulfill my duty (or when I offer it grudgingly) I am not arrested, but God is disappointed and I am much, much less fortunate for my laziness. May we all serve, worship, and love God joyfully.

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Scattered Thoughts “agin” the North Carolina, Electric Fence “pastor”

Posted on May 22, 2012 by revkennydickson

This must be the long lost, literally and figuratively, son of To Kill A Mockingbird’s Bob Ewell. … the missing link has just been found…if Darwin didn’t prove de-evolution, this guy just did…… not even apes hate… I’m seriously considering breaking my personal rule against comparing anyone to Nazis… sometimes freedom of speech and thought is a burden that is hard to bear… I suspect he considers grace to be  a 4 letter word, the last four letters… I think he has a different understanding of the hymn “Lift High the Cross” than most… Jesus wept, again…..I do agree with one thing he said, “Lord have mercy.”

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3TvvRlweyl0

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“True Grit” Sermon

Posted on May 20, 2012 by revkennydickson

4/29/12  Sermon     Acts 4:5-21   “True Grit”

Wanted: Disciples.  Grit and Boldness Required.

http://r.b5z.net/i/u/10092240/m/Sermon_120429.mp3

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“The Joy of Love” Sermon May 13th, 2012

Posted on May 19, 2012 by revkennydickson

John 15:7-17   “The Joy of Love” Christ UMC Farmers Branch

Mothers Day 2012

http://r.b5z.net/i/u/10092240/m/Sermon_120513.mp3

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Scattershooting

Posted on May 19, 2012 by revkennydickson

When I was growing up one of the things I most looked forward to was Dallas Times Herald/Morning News sports columnist Blackie Sherrod’s “Scattershooting” columns. These were what psychologists might call free association, or just letting your mind go anywhere if not everywhere. Given all that is always going on in my world, my mind is continually scatter shooting if not scatter shot, so I thought I would borrow from the great Blackie Sherrod the namesake for my blog. Here is some Scattershooting, scattershooting.

Scatter shooting while wondering whatever happened to TV test patterns? …. Why do they name internet junk mail “spam” when it’s full of bologna…..Speaking of the internet, two of the most famous internet companies are Google and Yahoo. I wonder what names came in second place? ….Do they still give away prizes in Cracker Jacks?…I have been calling our friends at channel 8, the ABC station in Big D to find out more about the “Spirit of Texas.” Should we consider it from eschatological, ontological, soteriological, or ecclesial perspective; still no answer but will keep you posted…. Still pondering the eternal question of why people park on the driveway and drive on the parkway, and while on the subject of parkway, why is there never any way to park at the Parkway Diner, one of my old haunts in Wichita Falls. … What do they do with all the caffeine they remove from coffee, tea, and soft drinks? …. I think that the reason the Knights of the Round Table fell apart was that the said round table did not have a lazy Susan… Biologists have discovered that the majority of walruses are right “flippered” rather than south flips… I am still waiting for “them” to make chocolate chip fortune cookies… and speaking of fortune cookies, who else feels cheated when they get a proverb cookie rather than the fortune variety?… So the Tennessee Waltz is a song about a dance called the Tennessee Waltz? Therefore you are dancing to a song about the dance you are currently dancing.  Now that is scattered.

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