Many years ago I became a born-again Christian. Caught up in the enthusiasm and with a strong sense of mission, I decided it would be a very good idea to study Religious Knowledge for A level. For the next few days I went looking for a school that still provided the subject at the required level in its curriculum. This was not that easy task since of all the available "ologies" about, "theology" was by far the least fashionable at the time. Eventually however I discovered a school which cannot have been particularly happy at the financial implications of having just having two very determined pupils and a teacher who for some inexplicable reason was prepared to teach the subject.
It was a little strange to be working in a large, virtually empty classroom. The first impression I had of my classmate proved correct. He always sat just behind me as if to oversee every operation in that room as a general. At times he would lift up his desk lid and slam it down hard so I was never entirely relaxed during lessons. This totally unnerving academic genius produced homework good enough for publication. To break the monotony which comes, I believe, from already knowing all the answers, he would sometimes lean back, shut his eyes as if to relax and allow me to answer a question.
Looking back on those times I still find it incredible to think of me as a sixteen year old having this opportunity to learn. Spiritual journeys can however develop a tendency to proceed in some quite unexpected directions. With very little regard for my conversion experience which had been very much a matter of belief, some dramatic under-pinning took place almost straight away.
The first lesson we were introduced to the synoptic problem. Although this method of comparing gospel narratives proved quite an unnerving problem, from that moment I was hooked. Form criticism came a few weeks later. I struggled at first to understand the concept although an image of the four evangelists each happily constructing a patchwork quilt using all their favourite items of mostly oral history has remained with me every since. Within a few weeks, my missionary enthusiasm had been transformed into those skills necessary to become a detective. Supported initially by that course, I was ready to be objective, identify with honesty centuries of Church politics and tradition to find the historical Jesus.
Perhaps it was inevitable that a Seeker after truth should discover Quakers at some point along the way. The company of those who traditionally place so high a regard on the importance of honesty, can be very reassuring on that journey.
When you are looking for something however, it does seem very important that you do not loose sight of the focus of your investigation. Like any investigation, there might well be prophets with different priorities, inaccurate, misleading observations, those who distort the evidence and whether intentionally or otherwise, put you off track. In our enthusiasm to dispense with knowledge that does not seem relevant to our condition, there may be a temptation to become arrogant. I am reminded here of my very clever classmate who
would deliberately allow me to answer some of the questions. Quakers can seem at times to be a little caught up in their own opinions.
In our search for truth there may be a tendency to "throw the baby out with the bath water" or watch in rather an uncaring way as a crucial aspect of the ministry of early Friends slips slowly down the plug-hole. We may at times put in additional understanding to the mix, to scent the water, making certain challenging truths more comfortable to our taste. Some Quakers forget to turn the taps off by refusing to use their minds, or by having dialogue with other faiths. Lately and perhaps most worrying of all, there has been a growing tendency to leave room entirely and so let the baby drown
It may be misleading to evaluate a course entirely by the exams. My classmate excelled, passed with the top grade and simultaneously gained a scholorship to Oxford. Although my results were not that great, I gained a love for my subject which has remained a passion. Whilst it might have seemed to others that this opportunity to study Religious Knowledge with some exceptional competition, would undermine my faith, or seem disrespectful, I discovered that honesty scrutiny can be very beneficial to religion. It would seem to me that we have been given our minds and each a unique set of evidence for a reason. Our role should be to trust in the power of the truth, take on the challenge of a spiritual journey, engage with our beliefs, because a house built upon rock will last.
Thursday 10 April 2014
Monday 7 April 2014
The Ministry of Children in our Meeting.
My local Quaker meeting is notable for the way in which it's children continued meeting whilst all the adults were in prison. Although this story originates from as far back as the seventeenth century, local Friends have given me the impression of being particularly aware of it at times.
Lately it would seem there has been considerably less interest in Early Quaker history and since it is now so seldom mentioned, newcomers do not tend to pick up on the story. Perhaps this is a missed opportunity to strengthen a sense of identity and responsibility for us all since it would seem every bit as relevant to note those reasons why almost a whole generation of adult Quakers had been imprisoned in the first place. At some point they must also have been able to communicate the importance of their beliefs in a compelling and appropriate way to their children. Loyalty is not accidental. This needed to be taught.
In the past Quaker children were confronted by beatings, buckets of cold water and the taunts of their neighbours. These persecutions only seemed to strengthen their intent. These days there is also opposition, through the attraction of so many other priorities, the media promoting very different ideals, besides the role of parents who might very well find themselves particularly busy and so stay away from Meeting. Despite all these new challenges, I would like to think that although our generation of children may not know or relate to this particular story, its relevance and possibilities are still present in our Meeting.
Some of the most memorable ministry I hear still comes from children. There was for example a Meeting during which several adults spoke about the challenge of how to communicate with God. At times it was a little difficult to hear these words because in the background there was the sound of an honest plain-speaking baby telling us about being persistent and that sometimes when you are very hungry, it is necessary to yell to be heard!
At times my own children have given me an opportunity to reflect on a deeper level. One morning all three of them were sitting very quietly in Meeting. The oldest was staring intently at the ceiling for almost the whole time she was there. Later she told me very proudly how many little lines there were in the patterned tiles, having counted them all. I would guess adults might have described this deep, thoughtful concentration on some aspect of the environment "Holding the moment".
My son was busy trying to learn his spellings knowing that he would be tested on them next day. At first it seemed quite inappropriate to be doing any aspect of homework in Meeting, but then I thought that ministry was about honesty and opening your mind to learn. The problem of a class spelling test was being addressed through silence, surrounded by the support of Friends.
To my dismay I saw that my youngest daughter had brought her most treasured possession into Meeting. Within a few moments that little draw-string bag was open and about fifty little plastic dogs were carefully arranged all along the bench. This part of the Meeting House now looked more like a playgroup than a respectable place of worship. Friends who spotted little dogs could see those things which were very precious to a three year old. Though seeing my daughter treasuring her possessions, I was reminded of the joy in worship.
Although my own children has now grown up, it is very good to see a new younger generation still enriching the life of our Meeting. If these children were no longer there I would miss the honesty and open-mindedness. There might be no one brave enough to notice a tree that needs climbing. Everyone would be content with just one biscuit which looked the same as all the rest. This would never be decorated with sticky brightly coloured sweets and drippy icing. There would be no excuse to sneak away and to read story books. We might never make our mark on dough, or draw for the first time in a decade because there happens to be crayons about. There would be fewer people about to put you on the spot by asking awkward questions. When someone failed dismally to eat a boiled sweet quietly during Meeting, discovered the hard way that they had forgotten to turn their mobile phone off, or even fell asleep, there would be no one else trying so very hard to catch your eye, suggesting that it might be OK to laugh.
To me it would seem children are like any other human being. Our Meeting is so much more alive when they are with us. They have kept us alive in the past and continue to be our future.
Lately it would seem there has been considerably less interest in Early Quaker history and since it is now so seldom mentioned, newcomers do not tend to pick up on the story. Perhaps this is a missed opportunity to strengthen a sense of identity and responsibility for us all since it would seem every bit as relevant to note those reasons why almost a whole generation of adult Quakers had been imprisoned in the first place. At some point they must also have been able to communicate the importance of their beliefs in a compelling and appropriate way to their children. Loyalty is not accidental. This needed to be taught.
In the past Quaker children were confronted by beatings, buckets of cold water and the taunts of their neighbours. These persecutions only seemed to strengthen their intent. These days there is also opposition, through the attraction of so many other priorities, the media promoting very different ideals, besides the role of parents who might very well find themselves particularly busy and so stay away from Meeting. Despite all these new challenges, I would like to think that although our generation of children may not know or relate to this particular story, its relevance and possibilities are still present in our Meeting.
Some of the most memorable ministry I hear still comes from children. There was for example a Meeting during which several adults spoke about the challenge of how to communicate with God. At times it was a little difficult to hear these words because in the background there was the sound of an honest plain-speaking baby telling us about being persistent and that sometimes when you are very hungry, it is necessary to yell to be heard!
At times my own children have given me an opportunity to reflect on a deeper level. One morning all three of them were sitting very quietly in Meeting. The oldest was staring intently at the ceiling for almost the whole time she was there. Later she told me very proudly how many little lines there were in the patterned tiles, having counted them all. I would guess adults might have described this deep, thoughtful concentration on some aspect of the environment "Holding the moment".
My son was busy trying to learn his spellings knowing that he would be tested on them next day. At first it seemed quite inappropriate to be doing any aspect of homework in Meeting, but then I thought that ministry was about honesty and opening your mind to learn. The problem of a class spelling test was being addressed through silence, surrounded by the support of Friends.
To my dismay I saw that my youngest daughter had brought her most treasured possession into Meeting. Within a few moments that little draw-string bag was open and about fifty little plastic dogs were carefully arranged all along the bench. This part of the Meeting House now looked more like a playgroup than a respectable place of worship. Friends who spotted little dogs could see those things which were very precious to a three year old. Though seeing my daughter treasuring her possessions, I was reminded of the joy in worship.
Although my own children has now grown up, it is very good to see a new younger generation still enriching the life of our Meeting. If these children were no longer there I would miss the honesty and open-mindedness. There might be no one brave enough to notice a tree that needs climbing. Everyone would be content with just one biscuit which looked the same as all the rest. This would never be decorated with sticky brightly coloured sweets and drippy icing. There would be no excuse to sneak away and to read story books. We might never make our mark on dough, or draw for the first time in a decade because there happens to be crayons about. There would be fewer people about to put you on the spot by asking awkward questions. When someone failed dismally to eat a boiled sweet quietly during Meeting, discovered the hard way that they had forgotten to turn their mobile phone off, or even fell asleep, there would be no one else trying so very hard to catch your eye, suggesting that it might be OK to laugh.
To me it would seem children are like any other human being. Our Meeting is so much more alive when they are with us. They have kept us alive in the past and continue to be our future.
Saturday 5 April 2014
How to survive Quaker Meeting?
It took me many years before I finally got used to our local Quaker Meeting. Although at heart I knew this was the right place for me to be, sticking at it was always going to be, a struggle.
For a start there was that very well intentioned "picket line" of Quakers waiting to greet other Quakers to get past. This challenge was made considerable harder as I was particularly lacking in self confidence at the time. There might be several weeks, even months between my visits (the recovery time varies!). Each time I went someone would ask if I was coming for the first time so I never got the impression of making much progress. It may have seemed like a friendly gesture when a Quaker would ask, "So how did you come to hear about Quakers?", but I used to shrink well back down into my shoes, as if my spiritual journey until this point needed to be explained, there was a standard to be met, and I had suddenly been caught out for doing something wrong!
Even now there would seem to be rather a lot of intellectually minded individuals among Quakers. In those early days, ministry often seemed to involve some book everyone else had read. Those complex ministries could be really scary so I tried to see the funny side, imagining all these weighty friends eating a dictionary for breakfast. There were many times I would wonder "What on earth am I doing in this room surrounded by people who do not seem very like me?" To compensate I probably tried a little too hard, hoping that the right impression might encourage all these people who seemed quite a bit older than myself to see a better side of me. It was possible to feel a little envious of new-comers who would introduce themselves with confidence before notices to say how happy they were to be there and that they had found their spiritual home.
Perhaps there really were other Quakers sitting in that room at the time wondering what everyone else was thinking. This curiosity about everybody elses' well-being made me wonder about my spiritual performance and if I was doing it right. I can recall some meetings when it seemed a particularly good idea to use the experience of having been brought up in the Anglican Church as an opportunity for prayer. After I had brought before God my sins, everyone I think of, the government, Queen, the sick, suffering and even dead (saints or otherwise), to my absolute horror, only about a quarter of an hour had passed! With no back-up strategy, I wondered whether it would seem at all disrespectful to repeat my prayers or if God would prefer me to discretely look around the room and listen out for snoring.
At times I would use the silence to plan the rest of my life, usually beginning with the next item on my agenda which was Sunday dinner. This was not a complete solution, and Meeting for Worship can make you very hungry. The moment everyone had shaken hands, I would evade conversation over a single polite biscuit, to head off home with plans for such a slap-up meal very precisely fixed in my mind, much to my husband's approval!
It's strange how any kind of noise can seem so much louder in Meeting. In the world outside Quakers, no one notices if you cough, but here the building seems designed for any possible sound to bounce loudly and repeatedly of any available wall. For some unscientific reason, tummies always seem to rumble louder, so you have to be alert, ready pull in your stomach muscles, then turn to look at the person next you, pretending it wasn't you!
To compound these problems, Quakers can be particularly plain speaking when it comes to expressing an opinion. The advantage of this characteristic is that you always know where you stand, and the disadvantage is that you would rather be standing somewhere else if you happen to disagree.
The most dangerous hazzard however comes with ministry. As if this wasn't enough to deliver in the first place, (and I can well understand Jonah!) Quakers have a tendency to come up to you afterwards, apologise for not having heard you properly and ask for you to repeat the whole lot again. If you begin a ministry by speaking as loud as you are able, it sounds a bit like yelling. Then everyone in the room looks startled as if they have all just received an electric shock, turns around with an expression of deep concentration and LOOKS!
My situation improved quite considerable when a member of our Meeting took it upon herself to get to know me. This was not an easy task. I will always be very grateful for her pro-active non-judgemental but also very tenacious approach to terrified attenders! Through her interest in me and the gift of her time, I gradually came to feel valued. For me this was a very important beginning. I steadily came to believe that there was nothing wrong with being me, that it was Ok to be a little different and have a sense of humour.
Instead of talking about what was assumed common ground, we talked talk about a range of subjects, exploring many possibilities. Eventually, a shared interest in Kent County Cricket Club enabled me to stay at meeting!
For a start there was that very well intentioned "picket line" of Quakers waiting to greet other Quakers to get past. This challenge was made considerable harder as I was particularly lacking in self confidence at the time. There might be several weeks, even months between my visits (the recovery time varies!). Each time I went someone would ask if I was coming for the first time so I never got the impression of making much progress. It may have seemed like a friendly gesture when a Quaker would ask, "So how did you come to hear about Quakers?", but I used to shrink well back down into my shoes, as if my spiritual journey until this point needed to be explained, there was a standard to be met, and I had suddenly been caught out for doing something wrong!
Even now there would seem to be rather a lot of intellectually minded individuals among Quakers. In those early days, ministry often seemed to involve some book everyone else had read. Those complex ministries could be really scary so I tried to see the funny side, imagining all these weighty friends eating a dictionary for breakfast. There were many times I would wonder "What on earth am I doing in this room surrounded by people who do not seem very like me?" To compensate I probably tried a little too hard, hoping that the right impression might encourage all these people who seemed quite a bit older than myself to see a better side of me. It was possible to feel a little envious of new-comers who would introduce themselves with confidence before notices to say how happy they were to be there and that they had found their spiritual home.
Perhaps there really were other Quakers sitting in that room at the time wondering what everyone else was thinking. This curiosity about everybody elses' well-being made me wonder about my spiritual performance and if I was doing it right. I can recall some meetings when it seemed a particularly good idea to use the experience of having been brought up in the Anglican Church as an opportunity for prayer. After I had brought before God my sins, everyone I think of, the government, Queen, the sick, suffering and even dead (saints or otherwise), to my absolute horror, only about a quarter of an hour had passed! With no back-up strategy, I wondered whether it would seem at all disrespectful to repeat my prayers or if God would prefer me to discretely look around the room and listen out for snoring.
At times I would use the silence to plan the rest of my life, usually beginning with the next item on my agenda which was Sunday dinner. This was not a complete solution, and Meeting for Worship can make you very hungry. The moment everyone had shaken hands, I would evade conversation over a single polite biscuit, to head off home with plans for such a slap-up meal very precisely fixed in my mind, much to my husband's approval!
It's strange how any kind of noise can seem so much louder in Meeting. In the world outside Quakers, no one notices if you cough, but here the building seems designed for any possible sound to bounce loudly and repeatedly of any available wall. For some unscientific reason, tummies always seem to rumble louder, so you have to be alert, ready pull in your stomach muscles, then turn to look at the person next you, pretending it wasn't you!
To compound these problems, Quakers can be particularly plain speaking when it comes to expressing an opinion. The advantage of this characteristic is that you always know where you stand, and the disadvantage is that you would rather be standing somewhere else if you happen to disagree.
The most dangerous hazzard however comes with ministry. As if this wasn't enough to deliver in the first place, (and I can well understand Jonah!) Quakers have a tendency to come up to you afterwards, apologise for not having heard you properly and ask for you to repeat the whole lot again. If you begin a ministry by speaking as loud as you are able, it sounds a bit like yelling. Then everyone in the room looks startled as if they have all just received an electric shock, turns around with an expression of deep concentration and LOOKS!
My situation improved quite considerable when a member of our Meeting took it upon herself to get to know me. This was not an easy task. I will always be very grateful for her pro-active non-judgemental but also very tenacious approach to terrified attenders! Through her interest in me and the gift of her time, I gradually came to feel valued. For me this was a very important beginning. I steadily came to believe that there was nothing wrong with being me, that it was Ok to be a little different and have a sense of humour.
Instead of talking about what was assumed common ground, we talked talk about a range of subjects, exploring many possibilities. Eventually, a shared interest in Kent County Cricket Club enabled me to stay at meeting!
Friday 4 April 2014
Are Quakers suppossed to break all the rules?
Traditionally Quakers have not been very good when it comes to abiding by the law. Instead of taking an instruction as delivered, we have a tendency to stop very firmly in our tracks, consider it on an individual basis at every possible level and then proceed only if it accords with the promptings of our own individual consciences.
Consequently we have a notorious record for being awkward and getting ourselves noticed in the most inconvenient way. When everyone else was shutting their shops and businesses on the Sabbath, some of our number felt specifically moved to open them! We could refuse to pay taxes to support the state church, and go to prison rather than take an oath of loyalty to the state. During our disruptive travels about the country with no obvious occupation, Quakers could impersonate vagrants very well! A notable tendency to generate riots, interrupt Church services and insult the local vicar could make us extremely unpopular at times. Whole communities would gang up against us. Those who were not Quakers would have seen it as being entirely justified that so many of us ended up in jaol.
Rather than adopt prevailing policy of either the Church or State, early Quakers derived their laws directly from their interpretations of the Scriptures. As a Christian denomination, (at a time when there was no obvious alternative in Britain) they referred to the Old Testament for a moral framework and followed the teachings of Jesus. Typically, since Jesus had taught his followers to be truthful without the additional support of taking oaths, a considerable number of Quakers were imprisoned rather than conform to the State. Although this defiance placed them firmly outside the King's protection, they referred instead to the over-riding, all-encompassing protection of God.
Gradually the law has bended to the requirements of a Quaker conscience. We do not need to swear oaths these days before entering university, the professions or to be considered credible in court.
We may still at times feel prompted to break the law, although this is usually done as as part of a very carefully thought out process after much consultation for a cause that is generally understood. When you encounter someone who knows a Quaker these days, they do not generally recall their lawlessness, some riot they started in the high street or how difficult it is to maintain a conversation with someone going naked for a sign! Instead it would seem we have a good reputation generally, although I have heard it said on a few occasions that we can be a little bit arrogant sometimes.
Through living in a multi-cultural community, we remain open to a wide range of insights. Given this freedom, it would seem particularly important that we are honest about our understanding of the truth. Most religious faiths involve some kind of law because religion is I believe intended to make us better at being human. What we believe is not merely an intellectual exercise but designed to shape our characters. If our old ways and laws are to be replaced, we should still respect the past because this is after all our foundation. Then it would seem necessary to consider with great care why such laws are now being seen as no longer relevant to our condition.
My Quaker meeting provides an opportunity before notices are read for any new-comers to stand up and introduce themselves. From what these visitors say, it would seem they include a remarkably high number of "refugees" from other faiths and denominations, looking for the traditional flexibility and open-mindedness of Quakers who do not seem to mind those who find themselves at some difference to the rules. To me this is a very good thing. We should welcome everyone regardless of where their starting point might be.
There is however a considerable difference between a sanctuary and a supply depot. I would like to think that coming to a Quaker meeting enables us all to move forward on our spiritual journey rather than merely hiding in the shadows. Perhaps it is this sense of progression which prompts many of these new attenders not to stay with us very long. For some, Quaker Meetings can be quite an unnerving experience. Rules in both the State and for religion, do after all provide a framework, draw those within a community together and create a sense of safety.
Consequently we have a notorious record for being awkward and getting ourselves noticed in the most inconvenient way. When everyone else was shutting their shops and businesses on the Sabbath, some of our number felt specifically moved to open them! We could refuse to pay taxes to support the state church, and go to prison rather than take an oath of loyalty to the state. During our disruptive travels about the country with no obvious occupation, Quakers could impersonate vagrants very well! A notable tendency to generate riots, interrupt Church services and insult the local vicar could make us extremely unpopular at times. Whole communities would gang up against us. Those who were not Quakers would have seen it as being entirely justified that so many of us ended up in jaol.
Rather than adopt prevailing policy of either the Church or State, early Quakers derived their laws directly from their interpretations of the Scriptures. As a Christian denomination, (at a time when there was no obvious alternative in Britain) they referred to the Old Testament for a moral framework and followed the teachings of Jesus. Typically, since Jesus had taught his followers to be truthful without the additional support of taking oaths, a considerable number of Quakers were imprisoned rather than conform to the State. Although this defiance placed them firmly outside the King's protection, they referred instead to the over-riding, all-encompassing protection of God.
Gradually the law has bended to the requirements of a Quaker conscience. We do not need to swear oaths these days before entering university, the professions or to be considered credible in court.
We may still at times feel prompted to break the law, although this is usually done as as part of a very carefully thought out process after much consultation for a cause that is generally understood. When you encounter someone who knows a Quaker these days, they do not generally recall their lawlessness, some riot they started in the high street or how difficult it is to maintain a conversation with someone going naked for a sign! Instead it would seem we have a good reputation generally, although I have heard it said on a few occasions that we can be a little bit arrogant sometimes.
Through living in a multi-cultural community, we remain open to a wide range of insights. Given this freedom, it would seem particularly important that we are honest about our understanding of the truth. Most religious faiths involve some kind of law because religion is I believe intended to make us better at being human. What we believe is not merely an intellectual exercise but designed to shape our characters. If our old ways and laws are to be replaced, we should still respect the past because this is after all our foundation. Then it would seem necessary to consider with great care why such laws are now being seen as no longer relevant to our condition.
My Quaker meeting provides an opportunity before notices are read for any new-comers to stand up and introduce themselves. From what these visitors say, it would seem they include a remarkably high number of "refugees" from other faiths and denominations, looking for the traditional flexibility and open-mindedness of Quakers who do not seem to mind those who find themselves at some difference to the rules. To me this is a very good thing. We should welcome everyone regardless of where their starting point might be.
There is however a considerable difference between a sanctuary and a supply depot. I would like to think that coming to a Quaker meeting enables us all to move forward on our spiritual journey rather than merely hiding in the shadows. Perhaps it is this sense of progression which prompts many of these new attenders not to stay with us very long. For some, Quaker Meetings can be quite an unnerving experience. Rules in both the State and for religion, do after all provide a framework, draw those within a community together and create a sense of safety.
Thursday 3 April 2014
About God. Making the relationship last.
Quakers can talk very meaningfully about those times when they have encountered God. Although these instances can seem very diverse, they are usually happy ones, much like the beginning of a relationship, when you are caught up in all the hope, excitement, and attraction of someone you have met.
As with any relationship, this encounter with the divine might well come under scrutiny. After that first rush of enthusiasm there may be critics, sceptics and those who struggle desperately to see the attraction. Among caring friends and family almost everyone is longing to ask the somewhat old-fashioned questions , "Has this new love in your life the means to support you?" and "Where does this relationship lead?
Just as a relationship has its challenges, I think there can be wilderness times in religion. What does it mean when we no longer feel elated, external circumstances intervene and joy transforms to suffering? Does God disappear when we are no longer in quite such a good position to praise him? There must surely be more to religion than an emotional response.
Lately I have been thinking quite a bit about the story of Moses and the Israelites. On their release from Egypt perhaps there really had been that sense of joy, freedom from oppression and so many possible choices. To keep the Israelites safe, there was however to be a route through the wilderness. Having established a relationship, God provided a pillar of smoke by day and by night a pillar of fire to guide them.
About a week ago I arranged to meet a friend in our favourite coffee shop. We chose to sit at a table where there was a view of the floor below, because, one of the pleasures of having coffee out is "people-watching" those busy about their own lives passing by. When I had finished my cup of coffee, I leant against the glass window next to my seat. It struck me then how much I trusted the strength of that glass not to give way. Coming up against something was a very good way of knowing that it was there.
Despite the passage of time and very different cultures it would seem there are certain characteristics associated with being human. At times we all have difficulty defining priorities, making best use of resources, acting responsibly and caring sufficiently for others. The freedom and choices we have today can also seem bewildering and scary. There are other available routes and that pillar of smoke or fire may not always seem so apparent these days within a Quaker Meeting. Perhaps it is more instinctive for Quakers to go on testing the strength of glass and even try to leap through it, once they have discovered its there.
It seemed to me that morning that I should start thinking like the Israelites. Any relationship needs to work both ways. Just as the glass window had prevented me from falling to the shop floor below, I too should start looking out for a framework of law to guide me.
As with any relationship, this encounter with the divine might well come under scrutiny. After that first rush of enthusiasm there may be critics, sceptics and those who struggle desperately to see the attraction. Among caring friends and family almost everyone is longing to ask the somewhat old-fashioned questions , "Has this new love in your life the means to support you?" and "Where does this relationship lead?
Just as a relationship has its challenges, I think there can be wilderness times in religion. What does it mean when we no longer feel elated, external circumstances intervene and joy transforms to suffering? Does God disappear when we are no longer in quite such a good position to praise him? There must surely be more to religion than an emotional response.
Lately I have been thinking quite a bit about the story of Moses and the Israelites. On their release from Egypt perhaps there really had been that sense of joy, freedom from oppression and so many possible choices. To keep the Israelites safe, there was however to be a route through the wilderness. Having established a relationship, God provided a pillar of smoke by day and by night a pillar of fire to guide them.
About a week ago I arranged to meet a friend in our favourite coffee shop. We chose to sit at a table where there was a view of the floor below, because, one of the pleasures of having coffee out is "people-watching" those busy about their own lives passing by. When I had finished my cup of coffee, I leant against the glass window next to my seat. It struck me then how much I trusted the strength of that glass not to give way. Coming up against something was a very good way of knowing that it was there.
Despite the passage of time and very different cultures it would seem there are certain characteristics associated with being human. At times we all have difficulty defining priorities, making best use of resources, acting responsibly and caring sufficiently for others. The freedom and choices we have today can also seem bewildering and scary. There are other available routes and that pillar of smoke or fire may not always seem so apparent these days within a Quaker Meeting. Perhaps it is more instinctive for Quakers to go on testing the strength of glass and even try to leap through it, once they have discovered its there.
It seemed to me that morning that I should start thinking like the Israelites. Any relationship needs to work both ways. Just as the glass window had prevented me from falling to the shop floor below, I too should start looking out for a framework of law to guide me.
Wednesday 2 April 2014
Daffodil Ministry
At this time of year Quaker meetings often experience a feature of worship which I have heard variously described as "daffodil ministry." Although this process can occur during a Meeting for Worship, it can happen anywhere. It involves a Friend feeling called upon to describe something very beautiful they have seen pertaining to nature. Since this year has been a particularly good one for Spring flowers, there has been a great deal to say about the impact of all the bright colours and evidence of new life.
For some weeks now there have been Easter cards in the shops, easily recognisable even from a distance since yellow is the predominant colour. Right at the centre of our local somewhat large department store, among all the material possessions we might buy, there is as a result of all this yellow, a sudden splash of light.
Each year I am re-introduced to those tiny flurry chicks that I used to love so much as a child and for those moments of recognition feel considerable younger. There is also much evidence of Easter Bunnies. This is also very exciting to "children of all ages", (particularly for those who have given up certain luxuries during lent), not so much because chocolate is unusual these days, but at the delightful prospect of eating such quantities of it at Easter!
The wonder of creation is something I can understand, so thoroughly approve of daffodil ministry at all times of year. These days people sometimes talk as if there is supposed to be some kind of conflict between science and religion. Such observations would have seemed very strange to early scientists who were so caught up in the wonder of creation. Instead of thinking for one moment their discoveries might undermine religion, they were so confident, believing all they were finding out only added to their appreciation of God's glory. Some Alchemists looking exclusively for gold may not have been so happy, although when a test-tube quite unexpectedly went "Bang!" they almost certainly noticed. Collectively, it would seem to me those early scientists must have been some of the happiest and most excited individuals ever.
It seems a little sad how a little knowledge can so easily take away some of the joy. Instead of being regularly surprised, we tend to be more self-disciplined, so often operate in a competitive environment driven by financial considerations and try to predict the results. These days it would seem the emphasis has changed from discovery to achieving a clearly identifiable end product. There is a sense of pride you can get with a little knowledge although I still like to think that scientists can still be motivated by a sense of wonder and then experience joy.
In the middle of summer one year I had an experience of God by looking very closely at a blade of grass. Those tiny flowers covered with minuscule grains of pollen filled me with a sense of wonder. Then looking round the field I was in, I noted there were rather a lot of other blades of grass about that seemed to be just like it, besides so many other flowers that I knew so little of. It is possible to feel very small indeed when placed in a field of grass.
One of the nice things about daffodil ministry is that it does not stop at the wonder of creation. Moses did not just look at the burning bush and think, "This is incredible, a very lovely sight, now I shall go back and tell my Quaker Meeting about how wonderful it made me feel." Instead he stopped and listened, to discover that a sense of wonder was to be only the beginning. Through listening he discovered his identity, his priorities, a trust that allowed him to overcome his weakness, a sense of mission and opportunity to give something back to God.
For some weeks now there have been Easter cards in the shops, easily recognisable even from a distance since yellow is the predominant colour. Right at the centre of our local somewhat large department store, among all the material possessions we might buy, there is as a result of all this yellow, a sudden splash of light.
Each year I am re-introduced to those tiny flurry chicks that I used to love so much as a child and for those moments of recognition feel considerable younger. There is also much evidence of Easter Bunnies. This is also very exciting to "children of all ages", (particularly for those who have given up certain luxuries during lent), not so much because chocolate is unusual these days, but at the delightful prospect of eating such quantities of it at Easter!
The wonder of creation is something I can understand, so thoroughly approve of daffodil ministry at all times of year. These days people sometimes talk as if there is supposed to be some kind of conflict between science and religion. Such observations would have seemed very strange to early scientists who were so caught up in the wonder of creation. Instead of thinking for one moment their discoveries might undermine religion, they were so confident, believing all they were finding out only added to their appreciation of God's glory. Some Alchemists looking exclusively for gold may not have been so happy, although when a test-tube quite unexpectedly went "Bang!" they almost certainly noticed. Collectively, it would seem to me those early scientists must have been some of the happiest and most excited individuals ever.
It seems a little sad how a little knowledge can so easily take away some of the joy. Instead of being regularly surprised, we tend to be more self-disciplined, so often operate in a competitive environment driven by financial considerations and try to predict the results. These days it would seem the emphasis has changed from discovery to achieving a clearly identifiable end product. There is a sense of pride you can get with a little knowledge although I still like to think that scientists can still be motivated by a sense of wonder and then experience joy.
In the middle of summer one year I had an experience of God by looking very closely at a blade of grass. Those tiny flowers covered with minuscule grains of pollen filled me with a sense of wonder. Then looking round the field I was in, I noted there were rather a lot of other blades of grass about that seemed to be just like it, besides so many other flowers that I knew so little of. It is possible to feel very small indeed when placed in a field of grass.
One of the nice things about daffodil ministry is that it does not stop at the wonder of creation. Moses did not just look at the burning bush and think, "This is incredible, a very lovely sight, now I shall go back and tell my Quaker Meeting about how wonderful it made me feel." Instead he stopped and listened, to discover that a sense of wonder was to be only the beginning. Through listening he discovered his identity, his priorities, a trust that allowed him to overcome his weakness, a sense of mission and opportunity to give something back to God.
Tuesday 1 April 2014
Something for April Fools' Day
On first impression today might not seem the best for writing a sensible blog about Quakers. Looking back on previous April Fools days, the one which sticks most in my mind is the year my husband brought me up a mug of tea first thing in the morning which I drank without question. A few moments later I came downstairs with my empty mug to discover the family cracking up with laughter because my tea had been made with a well known brand of instant gravy powder and I hadn't noticed!
Most people can recall having been deliberately misled on this day. From looking up some of the jokes that have been played in the past, my favourite so far happenned on April 1, 1698 when several people were tricked into visiting the Tower of London to see the lions being washed. They must have had a very high regard for the bravery of zoo-keepers in those days!
Although it is tempting to write a whole entry about April Fools day pranks, it would seem of more relevance to say something about what this festival means to me. We live in a very competitive society where there is enormous pressure to succeed. Although it may be argued that a competitive environment is good for most people, such casualties along the way have tremendous opportunities for guilt. Instead of looking for a reflection of ourselves in the mirror, there is very often a kind of sadness at not encountering the person we are supposed to be. We are supposed to celebrate creation, yet when the images of perfection are too strong, there is a temptation to wipe so much of what we already have away.
I like this regular reminder that we do not have to be clever all the time. It is perfectly OK to relax, have fun, even suffer gentle humiliation at the hands of others because egos have a tendency to undermine who we really are and the character we might be.
By now it would be almost truthful to say that I am learning to love my mistakes. That notorious inability to remember faces has often landed me into trouble. I can recall so many times when I have deliberately prolonged a conversation, desperately seeking clues as to the identity of this person who apparently seems to know all about me. Two of my children are now qualified first-aiders, a very necessary precaution they would say, because their mother is a crazy impetuous person with a tendency to walk faster than she can see, so often falling over.
Given time, it becomes possible to laugh at these situations, although there can be that searing pain and longing to put the clock back. Mistakes have a tendency to keep coming back at you like waves. At first it seems as if you could drown through a sense of failure, but they gradually fade away. Those lessons which are hardest to accept are usually best for us.
After what just happened to his staff before the burning bush, it does seem incredible that Moses should retain any attachment to it. I'm terrified of snakes so have huge respect for any Old Testament prophet who would grab hold of one by their tail for whatever reason!
Moses however must have had a particular need for his staff. For a start this was a sign of the limited authority he had left since it represented his occupation. Looking after his father-in-law's sheep was a considerable number of steps down from being a royal Prince but at least Moses had the ability to work for a living. Perhaps he needed his stick for support because despite all the representations you see of prophets and saints it is possible to be misled. Not everyone is able to stand up straight all the time. Life may involve a great deal of walking and not everyone is strong.
In a challenging situation there is something very reassuring about making regular rhythmic contact with the ground. Perhaps Moses thought as he re-introduced himself to Pharoah's court, considered his criminal record and that very uncomfortable message about letting God's people go, at least he had a stick. Given the highly probable emergency situation, this might be used on a few unfortunate guards as it had been on some of the Egyptian wildlife to protect sheep. To throw his staff down on the ground leaving himself defenceless, without status or support would have been the craziest thing to do.
Perhaps it is the Quaker bit in me that says when I do not like something, it is necessary for me to try harder. In fairness to that poor, exceptionally hungry snake who must have had a terrible stomach ache after these events, he does have a particularity long and very well-established reputation for representing wisdom!
Most people can recall having been deliberately misled on this day. From looking up some of the jokes that have been played in the past, my favourite so far happenned on April 1, 1698 when several people were tricked into visiting the Tower of London to see the lions being washed. They must have had a very high regard for the bravery of zoo-keepers in those days!
Although it is tempting to write a whole entry about April Fools day pranks, it would seem of more relevance to say something about what this festival means to me. We live in a very competitive society where there is enormous pressure to succeed. Although it may be argued that a competitive environment is good for most people, such casualties along the way have tremendous opportunities for guilt. Instead of looking for a reflection of ourselves in the mirror, there is very often a kind of sadness at not encountering the person we are supposed to be. We are supposed to celebrate creation, yet when the images of perfection are too strong, there is a temptation to wipe so much of what we already have away.
I like this regular reminder that we do not have to be clever all the time. It is perfectly OK to relax, have fun, even suffer gentle humiliation at the hands of others because egos have a tendency to undermine who we really are and the character we might be.
By now it would be almost truthful to say that I am learning to love my mistakes. That notorious inability to remember faces has often landed me into trouble. I can recall so many times when I have deliberately prolonged a conversation, desperately seeking clues as to the identity of this person who apparently seems to know all about me. Two of my children are now qualified first-aiders, a very necessary precaution they would say, because their mother is a crazy impetuous person with a tendency to walk faster than she can see, so often falling over.
Given time, it becomes possible to laugh at these situations, although there can be that searing pain and longing to put the clock back. Mistakes have a tendency to keep coming back at you like waves. At first it seems as if you could drown through a sense of failure, but they gradually fade away. Those lessons which are hardest to accept are usually best for us.
After what just happened to his staff before the burning bush, it does seem incredible that Moses should retain any attachment to it. I'm terrified of snakes so have huge respect for any Old Testament prophet who would grab hold of one by their tail for whatever reason!
Moses however must have had a particular need for his staff. For a start this was a sign of the limited authority he had left since it represented his occupation. Looking after his father-in-law's sheep was a considerable number of steps down from being a royal Prince but at least Moses had the ability to work for a living. Perhaps he needed his stick for support because despite all the representations you see of prophets and saints it is possible to be misled. Not everyone is able to stand up straight all the time. Life may involve a great deal of walking and not everyone is strong.
In a challenging situation there is something very reassuring about making regular rhythmic contact with the ground. Perhaps Moses thought as he re-introduced himself to Pharoah's court, considered his criminal record and that very uncomfortable message about letting God's people go, at least he had a stick. Given the highly probable emergency situation, this might be used on a few unfortunate guards as it had been on some of the Egyptian wildlife to protect sheep. To throw his staff down on the ground leaving himself defenceless, without status or support would have been the craziest thing to do.
Perhaps it is the Quaker bit in me that says when I do not like something, it is necessary for me to try harder. In fairness to that poor, exceptionally hungry snake who must have had a terrible stomach ache after these events, he does have a particularity long and very well-established reputation for representing wisdom!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)