Fathers’ Day

On Sunday, Father’s Day, I set out with my son Austin and fosterson Andrew to see my dad.  He is retired, living in Sun City, Arizona.  We drove for over 5 hours, said happy Fathers’ Day and enjoyed a couple hot days.  We visited my grandma, Lucille Wagenknecht, who is doing well at 89, living in an assisted living home, and my cousin Lisa and her husband Gary who operate a Maui Wowie in Glendale.  My brother Nathan and his new wife Julie arrived Monday.  They are preparing to move to Torreon, Mexico, where Nate will continue as teacher of seminary students and congregational assistants throughout Latin American missions.

We owe so much to our fathers.  Those of us who grew up with good fathers had a much better chance of becoming good parents, citizens, and faithful Christians.  It has been said that jails are filled with young men who got tired of waiting for their fathers to keep their promises (promises to provide, to show up and spend time with them or to come home at night) that they went out and got into trouble by doing stupid things.  Fathers, please make sure you always prioritize your children.  Keep your promises to them.  Teach them to know their Savior.

Now, I promised Austin I would take him to play tennis today.  I’m going to go keep my promise.

Hymns

One of the things I love about the way Lutherans worship God is the hymns.  Hymns preach, teach, and give voice to words of praise.  They invite congregational participation as other forms of music do not.

I think that years ago, it was more normal for people to sing in public than it is today.  I watch many young people and guests at our church services who, maybe because they are not used to singing out loud in a large gathering, remain silent while they look around or look at the hymnal or bulletin.  While this isn’t wrong, I think they are missing out on a great way to praise God.

Another difficulty comes when people encounter something with which they are unfamiliar.  We have introduced some new liturgical songs and arrangements and made use of some recently composed hymns.  Because they are unfamiliar, some have reacted negatively.  I share the blame because there have been times that I have challenged the congregation too much, or not spent the time to educate and train.  Of course, it is sometimes the case that those who don’t know something refuse to learn it.

I have not always been as sensitive as I should to those who lose their joy in worship because of difficult music.  I apologize for that.  Pray that God grants me and the worship committee wisdom and love as we plan future worship services.  As always, I welcome your input and feedback.