A Journey of Spirit

10 Years Later . . .

2011-09-10T17:24:00.000-07:00

(below are my remarks from the "Celebrations of Peace" gathering at the bandshell at Lake Eola Park delivered tonight on the eve of the 10 Year Commemoration of the events of 9/11)

How long is 10 years?

From the Indus Valley region of India there is evidence of the beginning of Hinduism some 4,000 – 5,000 years ago; Judaism dates back to around 1800 BCE, around 3,800 years ago – both find their time of beginning in the Bronze Age, the average life expectancy was 26 years old.

In 563 BCE Siddhārtha Gautama was born in what is today known as Nepal - he would become the Buddha - this is over 2,500 years ago. Not long after, in the grand sweep of history, a young prophet rose up from among the Hebrew people from a small village in the northern regions of Israel, Jesus of Nazareth, some 2,000 years ago – during these periods of time, the average life expectancy was 28 years old.

Around 600 years later, approximately 1,400 years ago, another prophet, this time by the name of Muhammad, began leading his people into a new religion of peace in his part of the world, and the average life expectancy had risen to around 35 years of age.

Today -- worldwide -- the average life expectancy is around 68 years of age.

So, how long is 10 years? In terms of life expectancy it would feel now much shorter than it did 5000 years ago.

For most of us in America the events of September 11, 2001 can in some ways seem as fresh and horrific as if they happened yesterday. All of us remember where we were and what we were doing when we heard the news that the first World Trade Center tower had been hit by a plane, then the second tower was hit, then the news of a plane crashing into the Pentagon, then another airplane crashing into the countryside of Pennsylvania. Without question most of us would agree that on that day in America there was a building sense of foreboding… of fear… of uncertainty. In those moments, and in the hours and days that followed, many in our nation were frozen in fear. For some, that posture of fear has never receded.

In his book, The Assault on Reason, Al Gore very ably outlines, in the introduction and first chapter, the effects of fear on the human psyche. In short, it stultifies our capacities for reason. Since the rise of what Alfred North Whitehead in his book, Religion in the Making, called rational religion which began roughly 10,000 years ago, as the Mesolithic Period was beginning, human beings have attempted to make sense of their world in part through spiritual understandings, concepts, and beliefs.

Whether we are talking 10,000 years, or 5,000 years, or 10 years – and whether our life expectancy is 26 or 68 years of age – human beings, at our best, are constantly in the process of trying to make sense of the world around us. Religion in its highest and most noble form provides a pathway for that journey of meaning. The four religions and one philosophy that I have mentioned here: Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, and Islam all share common understandings about the centrality of the need for peace in the human soul and in the human community.

The spiritual life – whether it is based on faith or religious understandings or a philosophy or a combination of all of these– does not decry reason, but rather celebrates the human capacity for reason and understanding and thoughtful reflection. In fact, I would suggest without equivocation that one's capacity for reasonability and love are absolutely central to the growth and development of the spiritual life, and thus ultimately for the development of peaceful human community.

In that light it is staggering that 10 years after September 11 the United States of America continues in wars on two fronts (though I suppose we only officially admit to one of them now), terrorist attacks worldwide have increased, members of our own government seem incapable of speaking to each other with civility or any apparent concern for the common good, the economies of this nation and of the world – turbulent and unstable – seem to be the result of the opposite of peaceful processes, and the undercurrents of anger and dis-ease seem at times unbridled in our communities. We might ask, after 10,000 years, given the rise of rational spiritualities, and the various progresses of humankind – why have we not marched with greater conviction and certitude toward civility and peace?

How long is 10 years?

For us I believe 10 years is long enough to know that very early on after the day of September 11, 2001 our leaders lead us down the wrong pathways. Capitalizing on that national sentiment of foreboding and fear we found ourselves easily and willingly led into two wars, into the dismantling of the basic civil rights which had for over two centuries marked the pinnacle of American democracy and freedom (which in those days was the envy of the world), and then over the succeeding seven years we were led down a path which placed us teetering on the brink of near complete and total economic destruction. It is yet to be seen how we will survive that final example of the wreckage of fear-based leadership.

However, this 10 years has also been an opportunity for each of us to look deeply into our own souls and into the soul of our nation. It is my firm belief that though at so many turns we have taken the wrong pathways, there is always the opportunity for redemption, renewal, and the changing of hearts and minds toward a new way.

And that is why we are here today... IF the faith community has anything to offer to the larger community it is the understanding that for people who seek to live lives of spiritual grace there is always a hope and a promise for peace.

While the average life expectancy of a citizen of the US far exceeds the worldwide "68 years" mark, the truth is, after 10 years we don't have one more day to wait. It is upon our hearts and in our hands to begin the work of peace in a new way today. As we seek to live out the spiritual enterprise of reasonability and love it is incumbent upon us that we help our fellow citizens in this community and our fellow citizens of the nation and our fellow citizens of the world to move away from pathways which are the result of fear: war, destruction, and self absorbed greed, and instead move forward in the risky business of building a community and a world of peaceful relationships, finally recognizing our interdependence.

How long is 10 years?… It is long enough!

My sisters and my brothers as the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said in his magnificent I Have A Dream speech, "Now is the time…" The golden voice of that powerful preacher still echoes through the years.

We know how long 10 years is, and while we remember with reverence our sisters and brothers who fell that day at the hands of brutal terrorists we are not willing to give their memory over to fear.

We know how long 10 years is to have wandered down paths that have led us toward nothing but our own possible destruction not only of body, but also of soul.

We know how long 10 years is to allow our nation to be co-opted by the greedy and self-serving.

We know how long 10 years is… And it is long enough… Now is the time!

Now is the time for peace, now is the time to build a just and stable economy, now is the time to study war no more, now is the time to plant a garden of hope in the midst of the rubble, now is the time to sing the songs of transformation in hope…

All we are saying is give peace a chance,

all we are saying is give peace a chance,

all we are saying is give peace a chance.

Now is the time for peace… Pray for peace, sing for peace, stand for peace, work for peace, play for peace, dance for peace, sew and harvest for peace, build for peace, organize for peace, prepare your heart for peace, create your home and community in peace... all we are saying is give peace a chance. We know how long it's been – and we know what time it is as – peace, peace, please O God who IS Love, let there be peace on earth – and let it begin with us. Amen

Hate is Not a Christian (Muslim, Jewish, or Any Faith For That Matter) Value

2011-07-16T08:11:00.000-07:00

Fulwider, Engel, and Musri (L to R)
Lovingly known as "The Three Wise Guys"

The article below appeared in the Orlando Sentinel just over 10 months ago. As the out-of-town hate group, "Operation Save America" descends with all its venom on our Central Florida community this week, it is important for people of compassion and good faith - especially from the Christian community who sincerely try to live out the love of Jesus in the world - to make clear statements in conversation and practice which separate this out-of-town group and their cruel hate from the true teachings of Jesus which are all about God's unconditional love. It is also a time for all people of good will and heart from every community of faith and of no faith group to stand together against hate, but more importantly, for LOVE. I was in a long meeting this week with two of my dearest friends - Imam Muhammad Musri of the Islamic Society of Central Florida, and Rabbi Steven Engel of the Congregation of Reform Judaism - and we committed once again to stand with each other in the face of this hate group coming to town. the Rabbi and I are on the Imam's speed dial, and we will be there when and if he needs our support this week!

This hate group and their convicted criminal-stalker-leader are in Central Florida to bring their vitriolic and violence provoking message of hate to women's clinics, the LGBT folks who are our friends and an important part of our community, and to our Islamic friends and neighbors in Central Florida. May each of us find the courage of our convictions to speak clearly in opposition to any voice of bigotry, hatred, and destruction. People of "Good Faith" are needed for such a time as this. We are needed to stand with our friends, our community, now!

==
From the Orlando Sentinel...

My Word: Faiths must counter Islamaphobia

September 05, 2010|By Bryan Fulwider

In Gainesville, a church called the Dove World Outreach Center plans a Quran-burning on Sept. 11, the ninth anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the United States. In Manhattan, protesters and politicians denounce plans to open a mosque and community center two blocks from ground zero. In Tennessee, local and federal authorities investigate a fire at the site of a mosque being built by the Islamic Center of Murfreesboro. Preliminary evidence indicates arson.

Ignorance and intolerance are not values espoused by any of the great religions of the world, including Islam. Yet, as a Christian pastor, I've become increasingly disturbed by the attitudes of many otherwise reasonable people who profess to believe in freedom of religion and to follow the teachings of Jesus. How did we reach this point?

We're living in an age where there's more information, more readily available, than at any other time in history. Yet, ignorance is rampant. We're living in a world where we're able to interact with a greater variety of races, creeds and colors than ever before. Yet, intolerance is rising.

In the story of Jesus, there is not one book burning, not one protest against a house of worship, education and peace. Our greatest enemies, in fact, are not loving people who seek to live in accordance with their beliefs, be they Christian, Islamic or Buddhist. Our greatest enemies are extremists who seek to harm those whose faith differs from their own. Too often such acts are carried out in the name of religion. But it's nothing more than hate, brokenness and sinful behavior.

The day following the tragic events of nine years ago, I met with the Islamic community in its house of worship for prayer. The Rev. Joel Hunter, senior pastor of Northland, A Church Distributed, and I were the only Christian pastors there that day.

I also convened the Interfaith Council of Central Florida to discuss ways of responding while offering support to the entire community, including our Islamic friends. Through the years, I've served on numerous interfaith panels promoting peace and understanding, and led many trialogues with Imam Muhammad Musri and Rabbi Steven Engel.

In June our church sponsored a series of films and discussions led by members of the local Islamic community. Attendees learned that those who follow the true tenets of Islam — the majority of Muslims — are people of peace who clearly reject any notion of violence against others.

Islamaphobia must be countered by Christians and people of other faith traditions ready to engage in the hard work of faithful dialogue and relationship building. Otherwise, as the cliché goes, the terrorists truly do win.

The Rev. Bryan Fulwider is senior minister at First Congregational Church of Winter Park/United Church of Christ, and Chair of the Interfaith Council of Central Florida.

the Rev. Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr.

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. used to say, "The time is always right, to do what is right!"

In whatever ways a person of any faith community may struggle with certain things, whether they be about issues regarding abortion, homosexuality, or Islam - or - about corporate and bank greed, the mistreatment of the poor in society, and the self-serving practices of right-wing politics, there is never a time for hatred of the other and inciting violence against those with whom we disagree.

Now is the time to be a voice and presence of courageous love, compassionate care, and loving concern for those in our community being targeted by this out-of-town hate group ...as we do that together, through non-violence, indeed "we shall overcome!"

Loving Acceptance and an Open Spirit is a Good Place to Start

2011-06-27T08:59:00.000-07:00

A Majestic Redwood Tree

To borrow – and probably wholly misappropriate – a phrase from e.e. cummings (and I don't think he would mind), "…here is the deepest secret nobody knows (here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows higher than soul can hope or mind can hide)" for the spirit to grow, one must be radically, fundamentally, and fully open.

First, we must be open to the truth that there are very few things which we actually, truly know. Second, we must be open to the possibility that the things that we think we know may simply not be true, at least not for everyone. Third, we must be open to the likelihood that there are many different good and positive ways to see and experience life and to live it. Finally, we must be open to the other who may see and experience and live their life quite differently than we do, and then be willing to lovingly accept them as the same child of the living God whom we believe ourselves to be.

One of the deepest wells of Christian scripture is found in the "Sermon on the Mount." Three brief chapters in one of the narratives known as the Gospels outline some of the most profound teachings of Rabbi Jesus. In one section the spiritual luminary, Jesus, talks about the issue of judgment.

Now, understand that in the "historical critical" method of biblical interpretation we do not presume that everything which has been attributed to Jesus was actually said by him; we do not presume that the historical references in scripture are necessarily accurate, at least historically speaking; we do not presume that when the scriptures suggest that God has told someone to do this or that, that God has actually told someone to do this or that. The “Progressive Christian” method of dealing with scripture is to try to sort out, from the volumes of material in the various books of the Bible, what the human beings who wrote the text – who were surely doing their very best to try to understand God from their vantage point at their moment in history – actually might have gotten right about God, Jesus, faith, and how we might live our lives well as the "spirit-beings" whom we are.

So, having said all that, the spiritually discerning reader of this section of the Sermon on the Mount will likely surmise that there is great spiritual value in this concept attributed to the great spiritual teacher, Jesus:

"Do not judge, so that you may not be judged"

In this section from the gospel of Matthew (chapter 7, verses 1 through 5) it is reported that Jesus goes on to say in essence… and just be aware that here I am going to take some rather “open-spirited” poetic license in my paraphrasing…

"in the same way that you're being judgmental of other people, in the end, you'll likely find the same kind of judgmentalism foisted upon you… so my dears (a wonderful phrase I learned from Mr. Rogers), spend the majority of your very limited time on the planet paying attention to working on the troublesome issues within your own heart and soul, and then try to do some real good for others; these are the things that you need to deal with, and stop being so blasted smug and self-assured about how good and wonderful you are; you have plenty of soul-work to do on yourself (yet, in spite of that God loves you with absolute, complete, and unconditional love – pay attention to that great truth first and foremost). So, you should really take a permanent holiday from criticizing others with such vehemence and vengeance and vitriol, because that kind of behavior does great damage to your own soul."

The Eagle Nubula - stars forming in our galaxy...
and it is quit likely that the universe is expanding

The spirit of Jesus – like that of all of our great spiritual teachers whether they be from Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, Judaism, Islam, Christianity, or many, many other traditions – never narrows the journey down, but rather, always opens the journey up. The spiritual journey is about the breadth and depth of the capacities of the human heart – created in the image of God – to carry and convey that love, which is God, and about the height to which the spirit can soar and the width commensurate with the ever-expanding universe which the mind of faith seeks to traverse.

Therefore, the spiritual life cannot be marked by a ruthless littleness of spirit. Judgmentalism is one of the ways that we thwart the human soul, and close the heart and mind from experiencing the breadth of God's love as the goal for our own lives. In his book, Respectable Sins, Jerry Bridges (an author and faith leader who comes out of the "Evangelical Tradition" of Christianity) addresses a dozen clusters of specific "acceptable" sins that we tend to tolerate in ourselves – such as jealousy, anger, pride, unthankfulness, and judgmentalism. In regard to the issue of judgmentalism he pens these thoughtful and helpful words:

"The sin of judgmentalism is one of the most subtle of our ‘respectable’ sins because it is often practiced under the guise of being zealous for what is right. It’s obvious that within our conservative evangelical circles there are myriads of opinions on everything from theology to conduct to lifestyle and politics. Not only are there multiple opinions but we usually assume our opinion is correct. That’s where our trouble with judgmentalism begins. We equate our opinions with truth." (p. 141)

Well... I have news for you Brother Bridges, this issue of folks hiding their judgmentalism behind the "guise of being zealous for what is right" is sadly just as often prevalent among the Liberal or Progressive Christian community. Did I mention that jealousy, anger, pride, and unthankfulness also seem to abound with many who would identify themselves as Progressive Christians? It seems that in this case, the Evangelicals simply don't have a corner on the market.

Therefore, each day as we rise from a night of slumber, however we begin our day – whether we are one of those people who jump out of bed and throw the curtains open with great exuberance to see and gleefully celebrate the new day dawning, or, one of those people who slowly and gently move from sleeping to waking, perhaps involving the need for calm quietness and possibly something warm with caffeine in it – it is imperative that if we seek to live the life of spiritual growth and renewal, we begin each day trusting in the idea that "loving acceptance and an open spirit is a good place to start." Regardless of those we encounter, whose lives may be steeped in some kind of destructive judgmentalism, our goal is to greet each living creature, created in the image of God, in the spirit of "Namaste'."

Not by Bread Alone… Yes, But Bread Still!

2011-06-16T09:15:00.000-07:00

Gathering around meals - "food" - is a central act
of human community

Here is a haunting statistic reported at a meeting that I attended yesterday morning with the Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida: "…if Interstate 4 were lined with children suffering from hunger just from our Central Florida communities and they were standing ‘shoulder to shoulder’ and you began to drive at 55 miles per hour beside that line of children it would take you over 30 minutes of driving before you would come to the end of that line (shoulder to shoulder – I mean shoulders touching!)." Add to that, people are being arrested for sharing their food with the hungry in downtown Orlando. Add to that, in the midst of our recent recession more children than ever before in the history of the United States of America have fallen under the poverty line and many of them are going to bed hungry every night. Add to that, we are still the richest nation in the world with its largest economy.

It is in the spirit of Jesus that the Christian community was founded nearly 2000 years ago. Christianity in its most faithful form provides an opportunity for the spiritual development of individuals and communities around the principles of loving compassion lived out in ways that create communities and environments where every person is loved and valued. Each human being, especially those who are most vulnerable, can find the opportunity for wholeness, hope, and healing if we are truly living out the Spirit of Jesus.

A scene from the "Spice Market"
Istanbul, Turkey

One report from the Christian Scriptures suggests that when Jesus was in a struggle with a dark force of destruction (the antiquated biblical ideology states that he was, "tempted by the devil") he was encouraged to use his power for self-serving interests (turning stones into bread). His response was quite simple, "human beings do not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God." Indeed, we do not live by bread alone, we also require spiritual nourishment. People of faith, whatever their religious identity may be, believe that we are far more than simply a combination of chemicals organized by biological processes into soul-less creatures. We are spirit at our very core, and those of us who travel the journey seeking to live a faithful life believe that the human spirit is connected and imbued with the divine.

Through the various religions and spiritual conceptualizations in the world we will characterize this relationship to the divine in many different ways. We will see and understand the journey through various matrices. We will organize ourselves and our communities defined by those various principles in a variety of ways. But at the end of the day, the best of all of our traditions, religious concepts, and spiritual understandings, will be marked by a central and core belief that we are called to love and care for one another as we share this journey called life. People of honest and sincere faith would likely agree it is not all about bread alone: nevertheless, everyone should have enough bread – enough food! Our world is rich with resources, thank God, and the truth is there is enough for everyone. Yet in our own community, in our nation, and in the “world which we all share” there are still people who go hungry every day.

A vendor at the water's edge of the
beautiful Bosphorus Straights

Of course, the word "bread" is also used in the common vernacular to mean “money.” Now consider the words, "human beings do not live by bread alone, but by every word which proceeds from the mouth of God." It is perhaps true that what stands most often in the way of our ability to share what we have in meaningful and life-giving ways is our attempt, each of us, to amass more and to share less. We have become too comfortable with the idea that greed is good. We have allowed our pursuit of stuff, our petty amusement with the things we own, and our arrogance connected to the size of our bank accounts and our investment portfolios to guide our every waking decision. In such an environment there is little hope for those who traverse the journey of life in the most meager of circumstances.

At the "Spice Market"

The Christian Scriptures contain warning after warning for the human race regarding the pursuit of our own wealth, comfort, and ease while we ignore, or worse still, demean and harm the most vulnerable and fragile among us. Righteousness in biblical terms is not about a small minded set of moralisms; it is about creating a world within our own communities which provides – through loving compassion, generosity, and fairness – for the needs of each human being.

There is a beautiful scene in one of the sections of the Christian Scriptures: it suggests a setting of some sort of final, cosmic judgment. I prefer to think of it in the context of each of us coming to the end of our own journey in life. In my scene, as my life is beginning to fade (I hope that's a long time in the distant future, but really, who knows?)...

I see myself sitting, let's say on the beach near the water's edge, and beside me is my friend and teacher Jesus, and he says to me, 'I was just thinking about that time, when I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you went and got me a drink of water, I was sick and you stopped by to see me, I was in prison and you came to visit me, I was alone and afraid and uncertain about the future and you were honestly concerned about me, you did your best to help me.' I look at the 'spiritual presence of Jesus' at that moment in complete confusion and say, 'honestly, I don't remember doing any of that for you.' At that point, my teacher and friend says to me, 'oh, you misunderstood what I was saying, you see, because I am the divine reality of life I am present in every living creature, and every human being. Every time that you honestly did your best to show loving kindness and compassion toward another by your actions, I experienced that kindness, so in a very real sense all of those things, the only thing in life that really matters, you did those things to me.'

Now, I don't necessarily think that this fanciful conversation will actually happen as my life is coming to an end. But if it did, well… I guess I would hope that my teacher and friend, the divine spirit of Jesus - which I continually seek to guide my life - might be able to offer such words. In any event, I do believe that living a life of loving and just compassion is simply why we are here.

So, You Have Enemies?

2011-06-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

As I prepare for a lunch meeting today with two of my best friends - an Islamic Imam and a Jewish Rabbi (we meet for lunch regularly), we also do "Interfaith Discussion" programs in the community, and we work together on a number of other important interfaith initiatives in Central Florida - I am reminded that each of our faith traditions have something to say about enemies. In each case the best of our traditions call not for the destruction of the enemy, but rather for means whereby we can find a way to co-exist. Here is one of the great truths for me:

Almost no one seeks to make someone an enemy,

but having enemies is too often a part of life.

This may in fact be more true for those who hold positions of leadership and responsibility in the community. If you state an idea, or clearly indicate a direction that you believe should guide life or community, or if you challenge someone in a way that makes that person uncomfortable you may well find yourself with an enemy. It is likely an unintentional outcome of some interaction. So, I will state it again, almost no one seeks to make someone an enemy!

All the great sages of all the faith traditions in the past (and currently for that matter) understand that dealing with enemies from time to time is a part of life. As with other faith traditions Christianity, in the Spirit of Jesus, has some rather clear statements about dealing with enemies in as positive and life-giving a way as possible. Jesus is remembered as saying, for instance, “You have heard that it was said, ‘You shall love your neighbor and hate your enemy.’ But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you," and also, "...love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return. Your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High; for God is kind to the ungrateful and the wicked. Be merciful, just as your God is merciful. Do not judge, and you will not be judged; do not condemn, and you will not be condemned. Forgive, and you will be forgiven." Even the early church leader, Paul, weighs in on this when he suggests, "feed your enemies." Too lofty?

We may think so, but here's the thing: without this high calling we run the risk of living in the ongoing cycle of violence and vengeance which has too often come to define our society and world. We need "lofty," and we need people who commit themselves to these high and noble ideals in very practical ways. This is critical work for the spiritual mind and heart. I think that it cannot be achieved solely through biological processes (yet, this is a discussion for another day: how biology is both affected by and part of the holistic connection of spirit/mind/body). Part of the work of spirituality for each of us is to learn the way of peaceful co-existence with our enemies, the bullet points are these:

Love your enemies and pray for them - it means prayers of support and kindness, I'm pretty sure.

Help your enemies if they come to you or if you see they need help - with a heart of compassion - a bridge of new or renewed friendship just might be built on such a foundation, if not, do it anyway (without expecting to get anything in return).

Show mercy to others and live in non-judgmental ways - refuse to put your spectator's chair on the sideline waiting for them to "mess up" so you can "get 'em" - there is nothing good or life-giving in such behavior.

In a world where ideological intransigence, smug self-righteousness, and 'destroy the other at all cost' attitudes are far too prevalent, we are in desperate need of those who seek the spiritual maturity to stretch their lives toward this understanding. Lofty? Indeed. Hard? You better believe it. The only real hope for a broken and beleaguered human race and planet? Absolutely!

Confession time: I am still far from living this vision out in my own life. But it is my goal, everyday. Join in the revolution of compassion and kindness. May we each find our way in - as the Dalai Lama suggests as regards enemies - tolerance, patience, and forbearance. It is only by this path that we become co-creators with the Great Spirit of Life of a world that is fit to live in.

The Rapture "Is" Coming

2011-06-03T03:56:00.000-07:00

The spire of a Turkish Mosque

In my study at the Church there is a thick file. It is entitled: "Second Coming Nonsense" and the labels have fallen off several times over the years because the glue on the backing finally disintegrates; I began the file nearly 25 years ago. Early in my ministry I began to counsel with people who were concerned about reports of "The Rapture" coming soon. Over the years, with each occurrence of someone "predicting" that the second coming of Jesus was imminent, I have clipped and filed the articles about these self-appointed "seers" and their divinations.

As of now the score is: “fortune-tellers” …zero – “no rapture theologians” …well, a lot! The notion of the “rapture” as an idea in fundamentalist theology comes from – as with so much bad theology in the world today – some misunderstood passages of scripture read by people who call themselves “biblical literalists.” Many of us in the Christian faith do not think this way, nor do we claim to be “literalists” when it comes to interpreting sacred texts of Jewish and Christian scripture. A sharply marked difference in theological understanding, and the life of faith comes from these two diametrically opposed ways of treating the Bible; we might say that those of us who work from the “historical-critical” method of biblical interpretation take the Bible “seriously” not “literally.”

Many of us would argue, based on good biblical scholarship, sound human reason, and a simple adherence to basic scientific principles that there will NEVER be a rapture; at least not in any sense that the literalist crew has proposed. While you’re getting out your dictionary to look up the word “heretic” let me suggest another way to think about this idea known as “rapture.”

Ancient Obelisk in Istanbul

The term means, “taken up.” When fundamentalist literalist folk use it they mean that the “true Christians” (perhaps they are kin to “real Americans”) will be gathered up to Jesus, who comes in the clouds (scripture language) to take the believers ‘out of the world’ before the great tribulation begins – and, just to confuse the matter there are vast varieties of scenarios which include pre-trib, post-trib, mid-trib, etc. – there are so many things wrong with all of this it is hard to know where to begin. So, I will simply say, from the perspective of many of us these ideas are fraught with terrible theology – that is to say, we simply don’t believe a loving God, more to the point a God who “Is Love” operates this way... ever... period. So, if this isn’t the way to think about this notion of rapture, how might we consider this non-biblical term created out of bad theology. Can we redeem it? Perhaps… try this out…

"Rapture" is - from a certain perspective - coming to every living creature in this sense: eventually we will be – if not “taken up” – taken away from this plain of existence. To every living creature there is, as the old Wisdom writer in Ecclesiastes suggests, “a time to be born, and a time to die.” In between those two poles of existence we have this wonderful, God-given opportunity to live! In that sense, we will all be “raptured” (die) one of these days. With such awareness can come two possible responses: we could become fearful and move into attitudes and places within our own soul that do not bring forth or nurture life; or, we can become tuned in to the gift of life we have, each and every day, and use it to bring the love of God to the world around us.

A man in prayer at the Ulu Cami Mosque
Bursa, Turkey

The former leads to a sad and broken existence, the latter leads to a life filled with the possibility of hope and joy and most importantly, love. My hope and prayer is that each of us might allow this notion of “rapture” (our eventual transition to whatever is next, beyond this current realm of our existence) to become the context for seizing all of the wonder, joy, grace, mystery, and majesty that is “life.” So yes, for each one of us, in our individual lives, there is a rapture coming: so the question is, what will we do until then? I pray you find peace and joy in your journey, and may your own rapture be far in the distant future.

(The pictures in today's post are from the artful photographic eye of Dave Krepcho, one of my fellow travelers on the recent trip to Turkey, with many thanks for his gift, and his willingness to share)

Spiritual Gifts

2011-06-01T05:19:00.000-07:00

Women Praying at the Tomb of Ozman Gazi in Bursa, Turkey
Founder of the Ottoman Empire

Upon my return from Turkey, late Sunday evening, I began the process of unpacking. I had brought a few small gifts for loved ones, and Mickey and my Dad were close at hand so that I could give them what I had brought for them. I am a poor shopper; shopping is not one of my gifts. I do enjoy having gifts to give to others - and I try to consider what they might like or enjoy - in my limited abilities, I simply do the best that I can. We had taken gifts to Turkey to give to the families, they were from the Church - hand knitted "Prayer Shawls" from our Monday night Prayer Shawl ministry group - in a small gift giving ceremony with each family I read the poem that is affixed to each shawl, it speaks of wrapping the recipients in love and care. These gifts were received with such joy and appreciation.

But here is a tradition that I did not expect: When you come to someone's home in Turkey, they give you a gift! Imagine our surprise – we who had been so generously hosted – when, as we prepared to leave each home, gifts were given to us by our host families. Already they had opened their homes, fed us like Sultans, treated us with love and kindness, these were gifts aplenty. But then to also give us something to take with us... such kindness! The idea of gift giving is an ancient - and I would suggest "a spiritual" - concept. It comes from a prayerful (read spiritual) heart.


On the left the European Continent, on the Right the Asian Continent The suspension bridge unites two continents

Last night I had the privilege of meeting with our Vacation Bible School teachers. Each year they allow me to share a few thoughts along with the Reverend Talia Raymond and the Reverend Karen Duncan regarding the scriptures to be used to frame the theme of each day of VBS. The daily themes this year are “Body, Mind, Spirit, Gifts, and Journey.” Each is considered in the context of what it means to share in covenant community. This is our highest calling, to see the world as our covenant community as we stretch our lives out from our smaller covenant communities whether they be family, faith community, or close friends to this small blue-green sphere we call our home. We each have gifts to bring to the great enterprise of building a worldwide covenant community. It is a spiritual work, and requires the discipline of love, even in the face of spirits of destruction and hate. The Rabbi whom I try to follow teaches: “love your enemy, do good to those who persecute you.” It is this spiritual discipline and gift that, like the bridges over the Bosphorus which unite two continents, can unite the human community in a covenant of love and compassion. People who attempt to live life from a spiritual center are called to a different way of living in the world. This Rabbi I mentioned also said, "The meek shall inherit the earth."

Entrance into the Dolmabahçe Palace - Istanbul, Turkey

This pathway, bringing our gifts of love and compassion to the world, is the only way that we help to create a world "fit to live in." It is the pathway of life, the intention of God for all of creation. We cannot control what the other will do, or how they will behave, we are called to live our lives - and our lives only - for the good of the other. May each of us find the pathway into the palace of life; it is a palace not made with hands, but possessing gifts of eternal value: faith, hope, and love. May God who IS LOVE, guide you on your journey.

YouTube Videos from Turkey are linked below:

Obelisk at Hippodrome, Istanbul

Sufi Dance - Worship, Bursa

Master Potter, near Sulcuk

Beyond All Expectations

2011-05-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

Dave, Chuck, Bob, and Piotr (Peter in other references)
at our last dinner in Istanbul

As the group gathered tonight for our final dinner, there was a clear understanding by each of us that by coming on this Nile Foundation hosted "Dialogue Trip" we had just experienced something extraordinary. This marked our ninth dinner together since first we met at the hotel on that first Friday night of this adventure in Turkey. We have spent eight full days in the hands of the extraordinary Mahmut and Saliha, the husband and wife team who have been our guides, shepherds, and friends for this amazing journey. They have led us with grace and patience and always with a spirit of love and care, and this has been no easy task, to be sure, and yet, they’ve made it look very easy by their great competence and abilities. So first to them, I say tesekkur ederim (thank you)!

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk

As we boarded the bus this morning for our final day in Istanbul there was, I think, a set of mixed emotions, excitement in what we would see today, and a bit of sadness that this is our final day of this extraordinary experience. We would start the day at “Miniaturk” which is a large outdoor park filled with models of significant sites in Turkey from every period, location, and empire of this ancient land. We observed many of these sites firsthand, here replicated in miniature models of intricate and beautiful detail. It is a reminder of the magnificent architecture, art, and devotion which is part of the fabric of Turkish life and culture. Also, there was a museum with a special tribute to Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the father of the modern democratic Turkey established in 1923 after the War for Turkish Independence. Sounding much like our own Thomas Jefferson, Ataturk once said, “We must absolutely be successful at education. This is the only way to salvation of a nation.” He also said, "The new Turkish society won't be a nation of warriors.The new Turkish society will be a nation of new economic activities." This visionary leader set the stage for the modern economic and cultural development of Turkey over the past century, and is beloved in the memory of his people.

Dome Frescoe at Chora Church

Next we made our way to the Edirnekapı neighborhood in the western part of the municipality of Fatih to the Church of Holy Savior in Chora considered to be one of the most beautiful examples of a Byzantine church in Istanbul. In the 16th century, the church was converted into a mosque by the Ottoman rulers, and then became a museum in 1948. The interior of the building is covered with magnificent mosaics and frescoes. The original church was built in the early 5th century and stood outside the walls of Constantinople (the name Chora means “in the country” i.e., outside of the city walls). The intricacy and details of the beautiful artwork in the Church is a tribute to a lost age. After leaving the Chora Museum we made our way past the magnificent entry gates of Istanbul University, Turkey’s oldest institution of higher education, then making our way past the main entrance to the Grand Bazaar we walked the several blocks to our lunch stop.

Interior at Chora Church

Mosaic of Jesus and Mary at Chora Church

The main entry gates of Istanbul University

A street in the Grand Bazaar

On the way to the Spice Market

After lunch we wended our way through the throngs of people to and through the Grand Baaar and the Spice Market. It is impossible to describe the experience of these places, except to say that it felt as though one was stepping into a world in an alternate universe; thick crowds pressed through mazes of narrow, covered streets lined with goods and wares of every conceivable kind. Shop keepers vied for the attention of any customer who might respond, hoping no doubt that he (and in rare case she) - meaning the shop keeper - would find that customer who might make the day’s labor worth it all. For those of you who know how I feel about shopping, I will tell you that I did not run screaming out to find the first tea shop available. Also, I made a new friend today, a shopkeeper named Murtaza, we had a nice conversation, and may I someday be as proficient with the Turkish language as he is with English. While I am still not a convert to the shopping experience, I did find the afternoon in these settings fascinating, if mostly on a sociological level (oh, of course don’t misunderstand me, I did try my hand at "bargaining" and found a few good items too!)

Murtaza Avci
Shopkeeper at the Spice Market

Eight full days, and nine glorious evenings later, here are some of the things I know: Turkish people are beautiful, kind, and generous (oh, I’m sure they have their ‘rascals’ like all of us, but I did not see them anywhere). Turkey is a wondrous country rich in culture and heritage with a proud history; and it is certainly making its way to a new greatness through its strong democracy, progressive economic work, openness to all people, and positive values to build community, family, and world relationships in life giving ways. Turkey holds the keys of tremendous promise to helping diverse peoples of the world find common ground by being a voice of friendship and reason to its neighbors east and west. I believe Turkey will continue play a key and ever more important role in helping to set a table for diverse world leaders to gather around and begin to forge new relationships of trust and future development for the good of humankind – it’s a staggering proposal, but I believe that Turkey is up to it! I hope and pray that the wonderful path which Turkey has forged will continue with renewed strength each day. My advice: come to Turkey, and see for yourself what a wonderful people and place this is – Lutfen (Please). Wherever your journey may take you, may the love and grace of God go with you, always. Islam (Peace)

A Cotton Castle and Waters of Life

2011-05-27T16:46:00.000-07:00

The White Hill of Pamukkale

There were no roosters of Denizli crowing this morning to wake us, but the sounds of a busy city began to break the night silence fairly early. Today offered a fascinating variety of experiences, from the Travertine mountain at Pamukkale, to lunch at a small restaurant adjacent the University of Denizli, to the quaint shops of every breed and stripe in the downtown area of the bustling city, to a picnic dinner in the bus on the way to the airport, followed by a quick flight on Turkish Airlines back to Istanbul, and a very nice birthday cake with the group this evening, it has been a very full and wonderful day.

Pamukkale, meaning "cotton castle" in Turkish, is a magnificent site to behold. The ancient Greco-Roman and Byzantine city of Hierapolis was built on top of the white "castle." Hierapolis was founded as a thermal spa early in the 2nd century BCE and was used by various empires until the late 14th century CE. It includes a large coliseum, a very large necropolis (cemetery), and a number of other ruins. The hot springs which were turned into baths in the ancient world were a particular draw to the city. Today the ruins provide a fascinating view of an ancient city, and the travertine hills are a place of leisure and play for modern folks (our guide said, “Welcome to ‘Wet and Wild’ Turkey,” when we arrived).

Dave, Chuck, Peter, Gee, Bob, Beth, Mahmut, Saliha, Bryan
At the top of the Coliseum in Hierapolis

As I walked the ancient ruins, especially the coliseum and the very large area committed to the necropolis, I considered how hard life must have been in ancient times. The dramatic sloping hills of this community would have no doubt provided significant hardship for the slaves who built this large city on their backs and by the sweat of their brow. What is left, as with all ancient and now defunct cities, is in part a tribute to the unbelievably difficult lives of the common laborers of the day. It makes me a bit more mindful and appreciative of those who do the hard, dirty, and unpopular work in our societies, and generally do so with a positive and kind spirit.

Entrance to the Necropolis in Hierapolis

The Necropolis is a reminder to all of us of the brevity of life... we are all called to make the most of the days we have. This is not a morbid thought, nor should we perish such reflections from our minds. It’s actually healthy, even necessary, to be in touch with the limits of our lives. By this means we learn to focus, prioritize, and choose wisely what we will do for the good of others with whatever time we are gifted with.

Pamukkale

But the best gift of the day (I’ll see it as a special birthday gift today) was the encounter with the Travertine Springs of Pamukkale. The vision as one walks along the snow-white stone is surreal, the light blue sparkling pools of spring water absolutely magnificent, and the feel of that 98 degree water as it runs over one’s bare feet was delightful. We walked the entire length of Pamukkale down the gentle slope of the hill, perhaps a mile or so. The stone was a porous and non-skid surface under the feet, so there was no sense that one would slip, and the spring water, rich in healing minerals, flow constantly over ones feet while walking. There were plenty of people around, but with no one paying any attention to me I began to softly sing, to myself, “There Is a Balm in Gilead.” My slow walk - you couldn’t go too fast - was about an hour; it became a precious time for me of reflection and healing for the soul, in part that’s what this whole trip has been for me: a time to reflect on, think about, and “tune-in” to the Spirit of God in my life. We all need such times and places in our lives from time to time.

The crystal blue pools of Pamukkale

I am grateful to the Church for supporting my participation in this experience, and the Nile Foundation for their generous and gracious hosting of this trip. I will have much more to share when I return home. For now, this will be the final blog entry. Tomorrow we will see a few more sites, and spend a bit of time at the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. We will share a final dinner with one another as a group. My eight travel companions have each been magnificent friends, each in her or his own way, on this adventure. Not a cross word was spoken, or an ill feeling had, what a great group of friends. I will treasure this experience, and no doubt it will continue to inform, inspire, and guide in many important ways in the years ahead. I am grateful to all of you who have shared this journey with me through your interest in and reading of this blog. Our flight returns late on Sunday evening, Monday will be a day of rest and recovery. Then, forward in faith. My prayer for each of you is to find peace, and to share that peace with each person you meet on this journey of spirit called life. -- Masha'Allah (an Arabic phrase that expresses appreciation, joy, praise or thankfulness for an event or person that was just mentioned)

The Poppy Grows Everywhere in Turkey - Beautiful!

A Letter From Ephesus... To Us!

2011-05-26T15:25:00.000-07:00

We awoke to the morning sounds of the city of Izmir, the third largest metropolis in Turkey. Through the open window noises from the street below began to gently waft up through the ninth floor window of the hotel room. Out the window, just to the left, is the hill on which Alexander the Great used to hunt; to the right, the beautiful Gulf of Izmir; and on the corner, a half block away, in the direction of the Gulf, a Starbucks; a reminder along with the US military base in Izmir that America and Turkey share a strong and abiding connection, while Turkey continues to strengthen its position as the lynchpin of global leadership between East and West. No one is more suited for this role than Turkey, especially under the leadership of the current popular Prime Minister, Recep Tayyib Erdogan. He will stand for re-election in about one month and is expected to enjoy a strong win. He is leading Turkey to serve the region well through its moral, political, and economic leadership.

Serkan - Our Tour Guide

Today we explored the ancient ruins at Ephesus under the able leadership of our guide, Serkan - I think there may be a "letter to us" from the ancient Ephesians, if we pay attention (more on that in a little bit). Following lunch at an open air buffet restaurant, we would visit the site remembered as the home of Mary the mother of Jesus, and a place they referred to as a “tile shop” (but it was much more), and then we would be on the road for our two-and-a-half hour drive to Denizli - our destination for this evening - where we will share dinner in the home of the Bozan family and also co-hosted by the Uzel family. Now, a bit about Ephesus:

A two story mausoleum in Ephesus

Dating back to about 10,000 BCE the area where the ancient city of Ephesus was located boasts a beginning in the Neolithic Period. Before the water receded from the valley, Ephesus was a coastal town and held a place of significant importance for several Empires of the ancient world, serving often as a Capital City of those empires. Through the Bronze Age, the Hellenistic Period, the Roman Period, the Byzantine Era, and the Turkish Era, Ephesus has held a place of varying importance in Anatolia (Turkey). It is considered to be a very prominent city in the memory of Christianity: legend, lore, and story tells of Paul living there for a time, also of the Apostle John living there, and even Mary the mother of Jesus as being a nearby resident. There is, of course, the letter to the Ephesians which reports to being written by Paul to the residents of this ancient city (it is also possible that Paul wrote the letter we call First Corinthians from Ephesus). But it also seems the ancient city may be "writing us a letter," as well.

The Coliseum in Ephesus - Seating for 24,000

What was most striking to me, as we made our way through these ancient ruins with our guide Serkan, lecturing with historical information along the way, was the immenseness of these stone structures. Now of course they are bits and pieces, some reconstructed where they had crumbled to the ground after the city was abandoned following the beginning of the Ottoman Empire. It no long made sense as a major city, there was no longer a port, and Ephesus went the way of many ancient cities. But it was once magnificent! Like a major city of today it would have caused its visitors and inhabitants to marvel at its prowess and beauty. Yet, it did not last; the Jackson Browne song is running through my head, “All good things got to come to an end.” Also there is the prophet Isaiah who says: “The grass withers, the flower fades; but the word of our God will stand for ever.” In this is perhaps a letter from Ephesus to all of us...

Chuck and Bryan on the Road to Ephesus

What this trip to Turkey has reminded me is that a city (as well as a mosque, church, synagogue, business, country, or any other “place”) is only truly significant because of the people who inhabit it. Things can become useless, outdated, and irrelevant… people ought not to be. Our true significance and importance is not measured by our intellect, our power, our wealth, or any other external “thing.”

Remembered as the home of Mary the mother of Jesus

Our true significance is measured by the good we do, the kindness we show, the grace we offer, the hope we engender, the compassion we give, the generosity exhibited by the actions of our lives, motivated from a loving heart. This is what will last. It will be passed from generation to generation, from life to life, from person to person. Great cities and institutions will come and go over the course of time. But the love that we leave in the wake of our lives will live forever. This is to me the "letter from Ephesus" to us, for our time.

Our Kind Hosts for Dinner on Thursday Night

Our host family tonight showed us this truth again through their warmth and sincere kindnesses to us, “we are all friends,” our host said with a smile, “we believe in the same things: love, kindness, caring for our families and friends, and helping those in need.” Thank you Necdet… well said, and thanks to each of our dear hosts tonight, along with Necdet was his dear wife Vildan, and their sweet daughters Zeynep, Aleyna, and Kubra, as well as our other sweet hosts Yalqin and Berna. One of our gifts from the families this evening was a “Rooster of Denizli” – I have a hunch we may awaken at first dawn to their songs, which are said to last longer than any other rooster anywhere, strong rooster lungs I suppose. So it’s off to sleep to prepare to hear the rooster song in Denizli. Peace and sweet rest to all who share this journey with me. From Turkey, goodnight.

A Sweet Gift from a Sweet Country - Turkish Strawberries -
Magnificently Delicious!

A Home Built by Love

2011-05-25T16:21:00.000-07:00

By row, L to R
Beth, Bob, Mahmut, Saliha, Peter, Gee, Dave, Chuck

The group in front of Gediz University

We boarded a beautiful Turkish bus today, leaving Bursa at 10:00 AM and arriving in Izmir (long ago known as Smyrna) at around 3:00 PM. With a steward on the bus to serve tea and snacks, a stop halfway through the ride, and the most comfortable bus that any of us have ever ridden in, it was a joy to make the trip. The Turkish know how to make bus travel luxurious! Upon arrival we met our guide, Serkan, and transferred to our spacious Mercedes van for the remainder of the day. Serkan is a walking encyclopedia of the history of Izmir (but only going back to around 6500 BCE). What a treat to have him lecture for about two hours as we took our van from place to place today. The Nile Foundation has made this such a comfortable and wonderful trip with every kindness considered. After checking in to our rooms at the "Otel Marla" a block away from the Gulf of Izmir we loaded up again to head to a newly built Foundation University named Gediz University. School choices in every level in Turkey consist of government schools and foundation schools, operated by private non-profit foundations. This school, only two years old is a foundation school. Read more about it at the following link: Gediz University. After a tremendous meeting with Vice Rector, Dr. Muhammet Akdis and several other professors and administrators we made our way to the home of the Nas family with whom we would have dinner and visit tonight.

Dave Krepcho visiting with Ali and Gulay Nas, our hosts

The Nas family were - as each of the families with whom we have visited have been - a true delight. We had the privilege of meeting mother and father as well as son and daughter-in-law, and daughter (one other of their children was unable to be with us). Each member of the Nas family hosted us with such grace, kindness, and warmth, we were made to feel a part of their family immediately. What has become increasingly clear on this "Dialogue Trip" is that we share such common values with our new friends in Turkey. The various loosely affiliated Foundations, with which our own Nile Foundation relates, are committed to the same values which we have come to know as the bedrock of our Nile Foundation: Dialogue, Peace through Understanding, and Mutual Respect, always with a large portion of warmth and affection.

Ferhat Nas

Each person we have met is interested in building a home of love for the human family, whether it has been the various guides, directors of foundations, family members, educators, or friends - each one has been a person committed to building loving relationships among people. Imagine a world where every person spent their time and energy working toward better understanding and relationship. Imagine if we always looked for the very best in each other, and only offered the best of ourselves to each other. Imagine if we as a human family chose dialogue over conflict. Imagine if we knew that peace could come through better understanding, and so we committed ourselves to that goal in every relationship. Imagine such a home built by and for the human community on planet earth, A home built by love.

Ali, Seher, Feyza, and Gulay Nas

The Nas family are in the textile business and have two clothing stores in Izmir. They have worked hard and done well. Ferhat works in the business with his parents, his sister Seher is a fashion designer on leave as she is expecting a baby. Ferhat's wife, Feyza is an artist practicing an ancient craft of hand-painted page frames for books. This joyous, creative, and loving family, as each family we have met so far - and every other person in Turkey, for that matter - represent the feel and tenor of the Turkish people: a people who are warm, welcoming, intelligent, engaging, generous, and kind - reaching out to others with a gentle graciousness. It is my prayer that as we build this home of love together, and continue to learn from each other and share the joy and hope of our common humanity, we will learn to find our vast common ground. Meeting these wonderful Turkish young adults, and of course their dear parents, I have hope for a better world ahead. As I look at Ferhat, Feyza, Seher, and our dear younger guides Mahmut and Saliha I am reminded of a wonderful passage from I Timothy 4:12 which reads: "Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity." Timothy was likely Turkish whose father was Greek. Acts 16:1-2 recounts that Paul first met Timothy at Lystra, Turkey (a nice coincidence, indeed). As Paul no doubt had such confidence in Timothy, I have confidence in these young adults, and so many others I know, to lead us in the way of Peace... Insha'Allah.

Sunset over the Gulf of Izmir - May 25, 2011

Healing Waters Poured Over Angry Souls

2011-05-24T16:29:00.000-07:00

Yesterday afternoon we left Istanbul for Bursa. We took a ferry boat across the Sea of Marmara. It was a beautiful hour and a half excursion. Upon arrival at the port we took the 30 minute ride by van to Bursa, our home for two nights. Bursa is a city of nearly three million souls; it is the fourth largest city in Turkey. It boasts a thriving economy and a venerable history. It was the first Capital of the Ottoman Empire in the late 13th century.

Dinner last night was at an outside restaurant in the hills above Bursa alongside rolling streams with the fresh smell of woods and nature surrounding us; we feasted on trout and other sumptuous food. After a brief visit with the owner we rushed along to be in time for the Sufi Dance worship service. Some photos of which are in yesterday's blog entry. After worship and tea we made our way to the Kent Hotel in downtown Bursa across the street from the Ulucami Mosque, completed in 1399 and used for worship since that time (more on Ulucami later).

Chuck and Bob at the Silk Market

We spent the morning in the Bursa Kent (Kent means "City") Museum. There is a significant story to tell of the history of this key city of Turkey. Its importance to Turkey's past and to Turkey's present is not to be underestimated. The day also included a few minutes of shopping in the Ipek (silk) Market. Bursa is the silk producing capital of Turkey. A magnificent lunch was followed by a visit to the tombs of Ozman Gazi - founding Ottoman Sultan of the new state headquartered in Bursa - and his son Orhan Gazi (the next Sultan). The tombs are located on an ancient Byzantine monastery site. We then visited the site of a 600 year old Sycamore tree atop one of the mountains overlooking Bursa, then to the Green Tomb and the Green Mosque of Fatih Sultan Mehmet Türbesi (who died in 1421). We shared dinner with a wonderful local family in Bursa. Eyup and his dear wife (a tremendous cook) and their two young sons (ages 9 and 1) made us feel like honored guests in their lovely home; Eyup is an English teacher and they were such gracious hosts, preparing a feast and sharing with us a bit about their lives.

Mahmut, Bryan Bob, Beth, Dave, Saliha,Peter, Gee, Chuck, Eyup and family

Now, my reflection for today: The Ulucami Mosque (The Great Mosque) is the largest Mosque in Bursa. It has 20 domes and two minarets and was ordered to be built by Sultan Bayezid I; it is a magnificent house of worship near the center of Bursa. In the center of the Mosque there is a large fountain of crystal clear water, it is bathed by sunlight as it is situated under the one out of the twenty domes that is a sky light; it provides a place for the worshipers to perform ritual ablution as a part of preparation for prayer. No other Mosque in the world has a water fountain inside - “so why here?” - one might ask. The story is this: when they were preparing to build the Mosque the property where the fountain is located was owned by a Christian woman, she refused to sell the property to Muslims because she did not want Muslim prayer offered on her property, eventually she died, and a bargain was struck with her children. The Sultan agreed to honor the wish of their mother that prayers would never be offered on that site if they would agree to sell the property to the Sultan for the Mosque, and so the bargain was struck. The large and beautiful fountain was placed over the area of the woman’s home. The ritual prayers of Islam have not been offered on that particular spot in the Mosque.

Worshipers prepare fore prayer in the healing waters at Ulucami Mosque

However, something beautiful has happened, that magnificent marble fountain has made the Ulucami that much more special. That grand marble fountain is a work of art, but more than that it is a beautifully sacred space. Small stools surround the fountain, water faucets are situated in front of each stool, and men sit on the stools and perform the ritual bathing in relation to prayer: washing three times hands, mouth, nose, forehead, face, forearms, neck, and feet. The cooling and refreshing water have a healing affect.

I sat and washed at the fountain - we all did from our group - I prayed there that never again would such bigotry deny the faithful and loving prayers of another. I gave thanks for my Muslim sisters and brothers who acted with such honor in the face of a request born of such ignorant prejudice. I marveled at how they have made a site which could have held such negative memory instead a place of redemption and hope. It is my prayer that the healing and cleansing waters of Ulucami will be a sign and symbol of how faith and love can bring a spring of hope to wash away the unkind behavior of angry and hateful souls. May each of us live our lives in such a way that we may be a healing fountain each for the other; God’s realm of love is bigger than and beyond all religion, and God’s love is the source of the spring which feeds the fountain of faith, hope, and love. I pray you find refreshment for the journey today, and always.

It Gives Me Pause...

2011-05-23T15:59:00.000-07:00

It is past 1 AM in Turkey now. I have spent the last hour trying to reach my blog-site, and nearly unable to do so. A kind man at the front desk of the hotel assisted me. My login screen turn into Turkish right before my eyes, a language I cannot begin to understand. It would not let me sign in and so, there I was, unable to move through the internet at all. It has been an exceptionally long day - they all have been so on this trip - but so very rich, each day with wonderful experiences. My commitment to chronicle pieces of the trip seemed a simple concept, however, there was much I had not considered: the time change and the exceptionally long and tiring days, very weak internet connections in hotel rooms, my computer and the internet suddenly thinking that I speak Turkish, other factors that are simply uncontrollable. Isn't this a lesson in life, we never can really plan for it all, nor are we often in control. So, I will do my best to recount a few things from today, and a bit more about yesterday...

The 500 Year Jewish Museum was fascinating, it told the story of the Ottoman Sulatn opening Turkey's borders to the Jews in the 1400's when they were being driven out of Spain and other places in Europe - a truly inspiring story of gracious welcome! The Military Museum was another reminder to me that we as humans must find better ways to solve our differences and resolve our conflicts, but the concert by the traditional music band of the ancient army was inspiring and beautiful. Dinner in the home of dear new friends, their gracious hospitality, the arrival of the Mayor of the community in Istanbul where we were dining, and our discussions about Turkish / American relations was inspirational and very hopeful, the Turkish people see the strengthening relationship between our two countries as so very important, so do we. Now, today...

We started the day at the relief organization, "Kimse Yok Mu" which translates, "Is there anybody there?" This magnificent organization answers with 80 staff members and 200,000 volunteers in 67 different countries where they provide every kind of aid imaginable with, "yes, we are here!" They are the third largest relief organization in Turkey, and a blessing to the tens of thousands they serve. Dave Krepcho of Second Harvest Food Bank, along with the rest of us, was inspired by their wonderful organization of care.

So much happened today, and one great highlight came at days end, when we were taken to a worship service of Sufi Dance (Sufi Dance is a great method often know as Whirling Dervish Dancing). It was magnificently beautiful and inspiring, I truly worshiped as they danced... such beauty!

The worshipers prepare to dance following prayer preparations

The worshipers dance, one hand lifted to Allah (God) one hand reaching out to humanity in love

"Tea is Served" ...always!

And of course, after worship, tea - in fact, after anything, tea - it is the charming and delightful tradition of the Turkish people to pause for tea often during the day. It is served in clear crystal fluted glasses with sugar and is quickly refilled until you can take no more. It is a sign of hospitality, grace, and civility. The kind gentleman in the picture to the left, dressed in a traditional garb, served us with such kindness and decorum.

We have been treated like visiting dignitaries with such graciousness. The Turkish people - and I have met many by now, both by intention, and by accident - are a kind and gracious people. A reminder to each of us of the true heart of Islam. What an honor to be among such good and gracious friends. We have much to learn from our friends in Turkey. It is a new day in this country: progressive, hopeful, prosperous, and energized. What a joy to see and experience these wonderful people and their beautiful homeland.

The Grand Palace and the Lone Soldier

2011-05-22T14:12:00.000-07:00

It was a day rich with experiences in Istanbul. First stop: the Dolmabahce Sarayi (Palace). As the largest palace in Istanbul it housed the last of the Sultans (six of them to be precise) from 1856 to 1922, and served as the seat of the government during that period. This 485,000 square foot palace is the definition of opulence. Crystal chandeliers and staircases, gold leaf almost everywhere that it could be affixed to something, and rich furnishings and appointments dazzle the eye at every turn; the main hall is home to the second largest chandelier in the world, it simply boggles the mind. Now a museum it serves as a reminder of how quickly things move from usefulness to relic. "Things" I am saying, not people. In stark relief to this grand palace was the image of a lone soldier that caught my eye as we waited for entrance to the palace. He was making his way around the outer grounds, no doubt walking his "beat." In the traditional uniform of the palace guards employed in the service of the Sultan when the palace was the bustling center of earthly power for the Ottoman Empire, now this guard roams quietly through the grounds of a museum. There is no one here to guard, nothing to defend against (save perhaps the occasional obnoxious tourist), no mission really - other than to serve as part of the environment. His rounds displayed a rather casual gait without much purpose or attentiveness. It is a symbol for me of how often we may find ourselves guarding that which doesn't really have much value. Yes, the Dolmabahce Sarayi is filled with "valuable" things (at least by the monetary standards of the world) but it does not possess the heart and soul and life beat of important, critical work. The image of this is a call for each one of us to always seek to spend our precious, and all too brief life energies on that which can bring life and hope and peace to others. Beware of hollow commitments to what is not of real value; may our journeys be purposeful, our steps be marked by the definition of the truly important work that is ours today: to treat others with the kindness, respect, and love with which we would want to be treated.

Our next stop was the 500 Year Jewish Museum, then the Military Museum, and finally a wonderful dinner with a business leader and a Mayor of Istanbul (pictured right) in the home of the business leader. More on that remarkable dinner tomorrow. It was indeed a rich and rewarding day, the journey building awareness and new friendships which give definition and purpose to life. Peace to all.