Pastoral Reading List 2009-10

As I explained in a post on my other blog, I have a reading list. The list is organized by month. Each month has a different theme. I try to read books and articles in that category each month.

It's a system that works for me. I don't actually plan what specific books I'll read. I just read what's in that category for the months, and looks good. The cycle starts over every September. Also, I should note that this list IS in a particular order.

SEP: Evangelism
OCT: History
NOV: NT/Luke
DEC: Preaching
JAN: Lutheran Confessions
FEB: Other Religions
MAR: Prayer
APR: Pastoral Theology/Pastoral Ministry
MAY: Old Testament
JUN: Worship
JUL: Gospel of John
AUG: Christian Lit. Classics

Like I said, this list and this reading plan works for me. Other pastors have different systems which work for them. What, if any, system do you use?

Movie Review- Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs

This movie is just a good time all the way around. The animation is superb, and if you get a chance to see it in 3D, please do so. It really does enhance the experience.

The film features the same characters as the previous films in the Ice Age franchise. The plot, though scientifically inaccurate, makes for a good time. The movie is there more for good laughs, spending time with the kids, telling a decent story, and of course providing a showcase for computer animation.

Though not overt, there is a fair amount of theological material here. The most obvious (and weakest) one is the whole issue of a creation-evolution debate. That's not even a part of the film at all, but I could see someone making the leap, or using it as a discussion starter. Whatever. But other issues which can be mined for theological nuggets are families and family units, friendship, trust, and purpose to name a few.

GOSPEL HANDLES

This film continues the idea of a not-so-normal herd from the previous two. It makes a good illustration of gospel "adoption". It also serves as a metaphor for congregations. Also in the film is the theme of going to great lengths to rescue someone who probably doesn't deserve it.

CLERGY HANDLES

Seeing as how all the characters in the film are prehistoric animals, there are no depictions of clergy.

I wholeheartedly recommend this film. Even if you enjoy on just a fun, cartoon level.

Benefits of Art

I came across this article recently. I found it in a little publication called "Silver". It describes itself as a "55+ Magazine for WNY and Northern PA". The article focuses on the positive benefits of art (especially on making art) beyond childhood.

The article begins with a quote from Pablo Picasso: "Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up." This is a great point. All kids love to draw, color, play with clay, and even paint. However, this somehow gets stifled as we age for most people.

The author lists several positive benefits for art later in life. These include such benefits as an outlet for self-expression, boosting self-esteem, cognitive improvement, confidence boosting, as well as the fact that it can be just plain relaxing.

So, this got me thinking. Our congregations are, for the most part, an aging community. How can we use art to enhance not only the lives of our members, but also the community at large? How can and does art affect our present ministries? How can we be facilitators for art in our congregations?



Just something to think about

The article can be found here: http://www.post-journal.com/page/content.detail/id/534977.html?nav=78

Movie Review- Harry Potter & The Half-Blood Prince

This film could have been a lot better. Not that production values were low or the special were weak. Neither of those is true. But in terms of plot and adding to the storyline, much more could have been done.

Harry Potter, since his debut in the novels, has created quite a stir both in popular culture and in Christianity. This post will address that second aspect. Though some would disagree, there are many Gospel handles throughout the books and films. This is particularly strong in this film. Harry is asked to trust Dumbledore's judgement and plan, even if it looks like evil is winning or will cost Dumbledore his life. That should strike a very familiar chord with Christians.

Why is this important? There are those who believe that children who are exposed to Harry Potter will take an interest in neo-paganism, witchcraft, or any number of other occult concerns. Oddly, these same people generally say that children should be exposed to "The Chronicles of Narnia" and "Lord of the Rings", which are just as (or the case of LOTR, more violent) and have just as many wizards or just as much use of magic. But, they argue, those writings have Christian imagery and allegory in them. To that I say, Harry Potter does as well. Besides, find me a seminarian who doesn't secretly fantasize or pretend that their seminary is Hogwarts.

I would recommend this film only if you've seen the others. If you haven't it won't make much sense. But the Harry Potter phenomenon is alive and well in our culture, and thus some familiarity with it is advisable.

GOSPEL HANDLES

The theme of trust is huge in this film. Trusting even when things look bad, or when judgement is clouded strikes to the heart of our relationship with God. Beyond this are values such as friendship, the nature of good and evil, divine protection, and purpose are illuminated as well.

CLERGY HANDLES

There are no depictions of clergy to speak of in the film.

Did Jesus Die On A $?

This post actually has nothing to do with art.

And, it pains me to write this because I have good friends on both sides of the issue. However, I feel compelled to speak out. Sure, I may be the only one. But somebody has to say it.

I have recently discovered that the Counseling Center (CC) at my alma mater, Concordia Seminary in St. Louis, MO will be closed due to financial constraints. This is an awful move. The CC was extremely beneficial to me while I was a student there. So, you see, this is quite a personal issue.

For those of you that don't know me or my story, let me fill you in on some of the details. While I was enrolled there, my then-wife left me. Consequently, I went through a divorce. I sought and received wonderful support from the CC.

And now, the CC will be closing. Dear friends, I harbor no illusions about the harsh realities of economic downturn. I am also aware that behind any institution which claims to be religious, a business operation must be run. (Left-hand kingdom issues, for those friends of Luther.) Thus, things not in the classroom (proclaiming the Gospel) is pretty much the Law incarnate. However, there are some things which are a bit more important than cash.

It should also be noted that this is not the only department affected. Faculty is being cut and redeployed. However, it should also be noted that one office has recently nearly doubled in size. This, of course, is the office responsible for raising dollars.

Like I said, I harbor no illusions. But, come on. Couldn't something else be cut?

In other words, "Here, Seminarians. Go minister to people. But don't come to us when you need actual ministry to yourself."

The Sem is currently seeking $77 Million through a campaign entitled "How Will They Hear?" According to the Seminary's website, it has already raised $57 Million. So where is the money going? They detail what those plans are on the website. Interestingly, there is nothing in their plans for closing an office which benefits the students while growing a fund-raising office.

The blindly loyal seminary apologists will say that this is exactly why the need for giving is so great. But if valuable services will be cut, the damage has already been done.

This is a personal outrage for me. And I know I am not the only one. If the CC has benefited you, feel free to comment. Or better still, call the Sem. Demand accountability. Find out where the money is going. Silence will not help the situation!

It is time for someone to watch the watchmen!

So, maybe this post wasn't about art. But I hope and pray it is not about BS artists.

PS: I should say, if I am wrong in any of this, I will gladly recant. But you must tell me why this is a good thing. Explain to me why cutting counseling benefits the seminarians and their families in ANY way.

Movie Review- Whatever Works

One thought crossed my mind as I was watching this film. Oddly it was a paraphrase of something said by Homer Simpson: "I can't believe I'm saying this about a depressing movie, but this isn't very good." (For the Homer quote, take out "depressing movie" and insert "TV show") That's where the great irony lies. This is supposed to be a romantic comedy. Now, to be fair, I'm not really a fan of the romantic comedy genre anyway. But I am a fan of Woody Allen (who directed the film). But this film just did not work for me.

The film stars Larry David, of Seinfeld production fame. He was also the star of HBO's "Curb Your Enthusiasm" (in my opinion, the most overrated show ever). David plays Boris, a self-proclaimed brilliant man who looks down on just about all of his fellow human beings with contempt and feels that life is utterly meaningless.

There is much to be mined theologically. Boris' opening dialogue about the meaninglessness of life would provide a decent video illustration for a sermon or Bible study on Ecclesiastes.

Other themes which are discussed heavily in the film are atheism and pessimism, as well as religious fundamentalism. Needless to say, Allen comes down hard against any religion and portrays those who are religious as parodies of believers.

There is an error which Boris makes right away in the film's opening sequence. he states that Christianity and Marxism both have the same fatal flaw: they start with the belief that humans are inherently good. This is clearly not the case. Christianity teaches that human beings are born sinful, and thus are inherently evil. Unless Boris is referring to American "civil religion", which I do not believe he is.

GOSPEL HANDLES

It was hard to find really any gospel handles in this film. This film is better served as illustrations and reflection of contemporary society. There are several great law handles, especially regarding humans as a doomed species (without Christ, of course). Any Gospel handles will have to be imported.

CLERGY HANDLES

Though no clergy are specifically depicted in this film, 2 devout Christians are. And as I mentioned above, they are reduced to a parody of Christian fundamentalism.

This film is worth seeing, if only for the discussion and reflection it is likely to cause. But, you might want to wait for the DVD release.

Preaching & Air McNair

Former NFL QB Steve McNair was not an artist in the conventional sense. To my knowledge he did not create a painting, sculptures, films, or works of literature. But he was an artist in the broader sense. In other words, he used his athletic ability to create things which did inspire us. There is much to interpret about his life and career which can admire and make use of in sermons.

His tragic murder, however, presents the preacher with an interesting problem. How proclaim the Gospel (and it appears that McNair was a believer), how to announce comfort to the bereaved, and yet still acknowledge the horrible circumstances surrounding his death.

Preachers and pastors have to deal with this all the time. I thought McNair's own pastor did a fine job when he told the congregation, "Put down the stone."

So, I will put it to you, in the hopes of starting a good discussion. Imagine McNair was one of your members. How would you deal with the issue homiletically?

Book Review- Holy Superheroes!

The majority of pastors I know all share 1 common trait: They are big fans of fantasy, science fiction, and/or superheroes. Though I'm not as hardcore as I could be (and used to be), I can be found in that third camp. Superheroes offer us yet another way to examine our culture and ourselves.

That is the premise of Greg Garrett's book, Holy Superheroes! Exploring the Sacred in Comics, Graphic Novels, and Film." He states that superheroes give us another way to examine ourselves and our myths: "In the process of telling their stories of human-and superhuman- characters, comics deal with issues near and dear to our hearts:faith, hope, belief, guilt, justice, redmption, ultimate meaning, ultimate evil". (p.7)

Garrett explores the spiritual issues of a wide variety of comics and superheroes. And he does so as one who truly loves comics. He examines such issues as truth, power, heroism, vigilantism, evil, ethics, violence, and others.

Particularly helpful is the appendix that Garrett includes. It's a list of 25 graphic novels which Garrett referenced and recommends. Granted, not all of them deal with superheroes. But, it is a worthwhile list. Not only does he list these graphic novels, he gives a brief synopsis.

I'm not sure how much this book will help you in your ministry, but it is a good read. If nothing else, it may help with sermon prep. That is, it may help strengthen illustrations, or provide new possibilities for illustration.

What about those of you who are not fanboys, or even casual fans of the genre? There are possibilities for you as well in the book. It may strengthen bonds between the comics enthusiast member and yourself, if you are not already a comics/superhero fan. Att he bare minimum, it will help you relate better to other pastors who describe themselves as fans.

The book is a quick read, and well-worth it.

Book Review- Family Guy and Philosophy

I read this book recently with great interest. I am big fan of Family Guy. Even though there is some content which is slightly offensive to me, particularly when it comes to my Christian faith, there is much to like about the show, and a LOT which is, to say the least, hysterically funny.

This book is a collection of essays, dealing with some aspect of philosophy that one or more episodes touches on. There is also a philosophical examination of the main characters.

Since this blog is designed to highlight issues which are pertinent to ministry, will focus on the essays which are of particular interest to people involved in ministry.

The second essay in the collection questions whether people of faith should be offended at the show's treatment of religion. The author comes to the conclusion: "Perhaps the religious content doesn't benefit believers; but then perhaps it doesn't harm them either. And maybe that's enough to justify our choice to watch and not to take offense." (p. 26) It's easy to agree with the author's conclusion. However, there is some stuff that is objectionable to people of any faith. But, that is going to happen anytime faith and culture interact. One of the most valuable skills for ministry that I have learned (and am still learning) is to develop a thick skin when it comes to worldly interpretations of religion and religious faith.

Two other essays focus on religion is particular. Another essay seeks to define what, exactly, "real religion" is. It also challenges the idea of exclusionary religion. This is a fascinating discussion, regardless of the tie-in to the show. And it is of particular interest to those of us who are devotees of a religion which makes exclusivist claims (Christian for me, Islam for others, something else for still more).

The most entertaining essay regarding religious issues is the one on Stewie (the baby) and the so-called Seven Deadly Sins. The author concludes in this essay that the reason we laugh at Stewie and his antics is not that it is so absurd, but that we, in our original sin, are capable of the same thoughts, words, and actions. (Even though that particular author has no use for the doctrine of original sin.) This is a valid point, and worth discussing in a sermon or catechetical instruction.

Every essay in the book is well-written and highly readable. I recommend this volume for any minister who:
1. loves Family Guy
2. has parishioners who love Family Guy
3. are looking for ways to integrate more and better pop culture into their sermons and /or teaching.
4. are a minister who is personally put off by Family Guy, but knows it's huge in American culture right now, and is looking for a way to deal with that.

Movie Review- Watchmen

This is an amazing film, loaded with theological fodder for discussion. But then again, many superhero films are.

The central plot of the film centers on a team of superheroes, which is in s state of quasi-retirement/disarray in 1985. One member of the team, an aging hero called The Comedian, is attacked and thrown out of his high-rise apartment window. This is discovered by another member of the team, a masked avenger called Rohrschack, who believes that, due to the current political/social climate, someone is trying to kill superheroes. The rest of the film centers on him trying to convince the other semi-retired team members to reunite and stop whoever is doing this.

Vengeance is a big theme in the film. But really, the main theme of the film is power. What are the limits of power? What is power? And, when using power, where is the line of demarcation between hero and villain? (The film could come into play when discussing, teaching, or preaching on the difference/relationship of power and authority.)

The film (and graphic novel on which the film is based) takes it title from the famous quote by the ancient satirist, Juvenal: "Who watches the watchmen?" However, I would also opine that it could be taken from the passage in Ezekiel where God says to the prophet, "Son of Man, I have appointed you a watchman over Israel." Either way, it works.

GOSPEL HANDLES

Despite the recurring issue of vengeance, there are some Gospel handles to be had. There is a scene where Dr. Manhattan ponders saving a planet that he "no longer has any stake in". However, he intervenes out of love (for Silk Spectre). This also presents an interestingpoint of discussion. The main villain causes the deaths of millions to bring about world peace. It makes a powerful statement on death being necessary for salvation (a key part of the Gospel of Jesus). I'll leave that up to you.

CLERGY HANDLES

There is one depiction of a minister doing a funeral.

I highly recommend this movie.

Movie Review- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Overall, I found this to be a pretty boring movie. But, just because a work of art is boring, or abstract, or even just plain terrible, does not mean that we cannot mine its resources in service to the Gospel.

The film, based on a short story by F. Scott Fitzgerald, tells the story of a man who was born with a condition which causes his apprearance to look ever younger as he ages. This is a very interesting premise.

There is much theological fodder in the film. Benjamin's adoptive mother is depicted as a very religious woman. That willbe discussed in slightly more detail under the "Gospel Handles" section. Other theological issues raised by the fim are purpose, and whether our days and what happens in them are chance or ordered with a purpose. There actually is more to this film than this oversimplified review makes it sound. Some of it preaches pretty well.

GOSPEL HANDLES

Adoption is a big theme in this film. As is unconditional love. Benjamin's adopted mother finds him on her doorstep. She is at first repulsed by his appearance, but she chooses to love him, despite this, and despite them being 2 different races. This is the strongest Gospel handle in the film.

CLERGY HANDLES

There is one clergy deptiction in the film of note. It is a revival preacher/faith healer. It is he who actually prompts Benjamin to leave his wheelchair and start walking. This says soemthing about both faith healing, and faith itself.

Movie Review- Slumdog Millionaire

This film came highly recommended by several people. I finally got a chance to see it. It took me a while to get into the story, but once I finally did, it was an enjoyable ride.

The film is the story of a young man from the slums of Mumbai, India (formerly Bombay) who gets a chance to compete on the Indian television version "Who wants to be a Millionaire?" He scores better than anyone in the history of the show. Thus, he is accused cheating. The host of the show, as well as the police, want to know how it is that a kid from the slums could know so much. The answers to the questions are provided by his retelling his life story to the police. In other words, every experience he has had in his life has led him to the answer to one of the show's questions.

The tale is, at its core, a love story. It depicts a vast, inescapable, relentless love. This alone makes it a Gospel Handle. More on that later, though. The film also provides other theological fodder. One scene, for example, depicts a vision of the Hindu deity Rama. Additionally, theological/social justice issues such as class, education, crime and poverty are addressed.

The other primary theological issue deals with a sense of purpose. It seeks to answer the question of whether things that happen to us, or things that we experience, occur for a reason or are they random chance? Do they serve a purpose, and can we use them in our purpose?

GOSPEL HANDLES

As I stated above, the type of love that the main character (Jamal) shows for a woman (Latika) is the core of the film. It is also a wonderful metaphor for God's love to His creations (us). Further, just as Jamal will not give upon Latika, no matter how dire the situation is, God doesn't give up on us.

Another Gospel handle is the relationship of Jamal to his older brother, Salim. His brother makes some very sacrificial decisions regarding Jamal. Jamal does not always realize it at the time. However, he mostly has Jamal's interest at heart. This, too, is an appropriate metaphor for God.

CLERGY HANDLES

There are no clergy depictions to speak of.

The preacher who searches this film for sermon fodder and illustrations will be richly rewarded. Theological significance abounds here. Another added bonus is that the film provides a non-western perspective, which will add nice diversity to any sermon.

Movie Review- The Reader

Here again, we are presented with a film that is not so much theological, as it is moral. Some might argue that you cannot separate the 2. That debate is not the purpose of this review.

This film is an emotionally-taut exploration of a certain kind of human relationship. In this case, it tells the story of a teenager who randomly meets and begins an affair with an older woman. The affair lasts for one summer. He sees the woman years later as a law student who observes the woman on trial for war crimes due to her involvement in the Nazi atrocities. The rest of the film deals with the continuation of their relationship after they no longer have the physical/sexual aspects of it.

All sorts of morality issues are at play here. There are obvious 6th-commandment issues. The theological issues which can be raised in a discussion are faithfulness to vocation, what it means to care for another, and the classic "Who is my neighbor"?

GOSPEL HANDLES

This film, as I stated above is not so much theological as it is moral. Thus, Gospel handles must be imported. There are themes of service, servanthood, redemption, Law, and responsibility. There is a good scene which would serve as a good sermon illustration which is a dialogue on absolution and forgiveness between the lawyer (ably played by Ralph Fiennes) and a Holocaust survivor.

CLERGY HANDLES

There are no depictions of clergy to speak of in the film.

This film is worth seeing. However, if you have an aversion to graphic sexual sitauions (whether they advance the plot or not), you may want to skip the first 40 or so minutes. Either way, you will be rewarded with a satifying drama. Kate Winslet's performance is not to be missed.

Movie Review- Frost/Nixon

This is not a theological film, per se. However, that doesn't mean that theological truths and insights cannot be gleaned from it. Nor does it mean that there are not theological issues explored.

The film tells the story of British journalist David Frost and his famed interview with former president Richard Nixon. It tells how Frost conceived the idea, tried to fund it, and eventually got it produced.

Several issues are raised by this film. These include: power vs. authority, the limits of governmental authority (Romans 13 issues), as well the use of media. All of these can be theological issues.

There is one particular religious angle in the film. It's when someone points out to Frost to ask the question, how can Nixon as a Quaker justify escalating the war in Vietnam? It's a valid point, I think.

GOSPEL HANDLES:

There's not many obvious Gospel Handles that I observed in this film. But there are some connections. The most obvious one is of course, Chuck Colson. Colson was one of those that actually went to prison for Watergate, and later became a Christian apologist. Another tie-in is using the Frost?Nixon interview as a type of confession. This is probably the strongest of the handles, though there is no real Gospel proclamation.

CLERGY HANDLES:

There are no depictions of clergy to speak of. There is only one passing reference to Billy Graham.

This is an OK movie which is saved by strong performances. It's worth seeing, but I wouldn't have nominated for Best Picture.

Movie Review- Gran Torino

For all intents and purposes, I found Clint Eastwood's latest opus "Gran Torino" to be brilliant. The film is rich with opportunities for dialogue. There are also some wonderful performances, especially by previously unknown actors. (You can read my full review here: http://habakkukscomplaint.blogspot.com/2009/01/movie-review-gran-torino.html). In this post I'll look at some of the theological aspects of the film, as well as give some Gospel handles I found. Maybe you've found some others.

The film preaches very well. By that, I mean there are several scenes which can serve as useful sermon illustrations. I also mean that there are issues with which the average person in the pews might find themselves dealing.

These issues include (but are not limited to) urban decay, racism, aging and family issues, as well as violence in our communities. I realize I'm being vague about this. That's for 2 reasons. One, I think you should see this film, and I don't want to ruin it for you. Two, you (as a pastor or church worker) know your members. I can't tell you how best to minister to them.

GOSPEL HANDLES:

1. Forgiveness is a big deal in this film. It is not limited to simple confession and absolution in the plot. It also focuses on forgiving yourself. This is an important component of human interaction. Eastwood's character does eventually learn the power of forgiveness, even self forgiveness. This demonstrated by how the reading of his will turns out, as well as how he treats his neighbors as the film goes on.

2. At the risk of being a spoiler, I'll tell you that Eastwood's character dies. But he dies so that others will have a better life and will have peace. He sacrifices himself for these other people, even those that reject him at first. Additionally, he realizes that he is the only one who can accomplish this. In other words, a Christ-figure.

CLERGY HANDLES:

There are 2 identifiable clergy figures in the film. One a Roman Catholic priest, the other a Hmong shaman. Both try to understand Eastwood's protagonist. And once they know him, they do a decent job of reading him. This is especially true of the young, fresh-out-of-the-seminary priest. He highlights the importance of caring for all of one's "flock". More than this, he shows the importance of meeting people where they are, but not leaving them there. That's the essence of ministry right there.

As I said before, this is a brilliant film. Is it required viewing? I'm not sure about that. But, I'd recommend it.

Welcome to the Pastoral Aesthetic

I resisted doing a purely theological blog for so long. I resisted for a variety of reasons: others do it much better, other people are better theologians, etc.

This blog will deal with the pastoral office and pastoral ministry. I will examine various aspects of life, mostly in light of the arts and aesthetics. This is not meant to limit the posts and the discussion, just to provide a good place to start.

Keep in mind, I am a sinful human being. Just like you, dear reader. I could be completely off-base. Please let me know when I am. Also,I've only been in the ministry for a little less than 2 years. Keep that in mind when judging and evaluating my opinions and arguments (another reason for delaying a theological blog).

This blog will a journey, of sorts. I don't know what the future holds. What can you expect from this blog? The following:

1. Reviews of books, films, TV shows, and art
2. Relating such things as mentioned above to pastoral ministry
3. Interviews with other pastors (Mostly LCMS, some not)
4. A safe place for discussion and even dissent

I'm not so egotistical to think that I have the final say on these or any other matters. That belongs to God and His Holy Word.

Welcome to (hopefully) an interesting perspective on ministry.
Welcome to The Pastoral Aesthetic!