Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of December 6, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published! Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l
Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Strength for the weary and weak

"Have you not known?  Have you not heard?  The
Lord is the everlasting God, the Creator of the
ends of the earth.  God does not faint or grow
weary; God's understanding is unsearchable.  God
gives power to the faint, and strengthens the
powerless.  Even youths will faint and be weary,
and the young will fall exhausted; but those who
wait for the Lord shall renew their strength,
they shall mount up with wings like eagles,
they shall run and not be weary, they shall
walk and not faint."
Isaiah 40:28-31

Cleaning my files the other day I came across a
sermon I preached at the naval hospital more than
five years ago.  It was titled, "Amazing Strength."
Powerful memories flooded my mind of a courageous,
quiet, bald headed woman who came to the chapel
for that Sunday morning service.

She came alone with her intravenous bottle swaying
with every step.  Her eyes never left me during the
message.  The chapel service had a time for special
blessing and anointing for those who wanted healing
prayers.  She was too weak to come forward for prayer
and so I went to her.  The woman was undergoing
massive chemotherapy and radiation for a vicious
metastatic cancer.  Her prognosis was very poor.
Only God could help her at this stage of her disease.
We were not the only ones in the congregation with
tears in our eyes.

After the service was over, I visited this frail
woman in her hospital room and found her resting
in bed with an open Bible on her lap.  Sure enough,
it was opened to these verses on which I had preached.
She labored for breath as she told of her struggle
with pain and pending death.  The scripture had
greatly encouraged her to hold on for another day.
She had imagined herself soaring with the eagles in
power and strength.

Her great faith was humbling.  Her courage and
dignity was profound.  These words helped her
continue to live with strength and hope.  The
illness was wasting her body away, but her faith
in God was vibrant and deep.  She was not afraid.

I will always remember her courage and faith.  I
will remember the look in her eyes as she listened
to these words.  I will remember her open Bible
during her time of great need and physical
suffering.  She found that God was enough.  In
putting her hope in God, she received the strength
needed for living one day at a time.

God, strengthen my faith in whatever my circumstances
may be.  Let these lovely words of courage help me.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of November 29, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published! Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l
Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

A Holocaust Museum reflection

A Psalm of David, when he fled from his son
Absalom.  "O Lord, how many are my foes!
Many are rising against me."
Psalm 3:1

We know racism and anti-Semitism kills, but
did you know homophobia is just as deadly?
Years ago, I toured the Holocaust museum in
Washington D.C.  Throughout the museum, Nazi
concentration camp survivors proudly wore
their yellow Star of David while interacting
with visitors.  More than six million Jews
had been exterminated in Hitler's death
camps in World War Two.  These survivors
were rightfully determined to tell their
stories to the world, so the horrific
lessons of history would never again be
repeated.

The museum honored other concentration camp
victims as well, including numerous exhibits
honoring the many thousands of homosexuals
forced to wear the pink triangle by Hitler.
They were also brutally tortured and
annihilated.  The Holocaust museum has
wisely acknowledged that the world must
know homophobia is as deadly as anti-
Semitism and racism.  The museum presents
the stories of gay and lesbian victims with
respect and dignity.

I am deeply grateful for the Holocaust's
museum efforts to present these stories,
for many history books are often silenced
by overt, legalized secular and religious
homophobia.  In some countries even today,
gay and lesbian citizens are arrested,
brutalized, tortured, executed, or murdered
while the authorities look the other way.

Gay or straight, Jewish or Gentile, we share
a common God who delights in human diversity.
We are one family on earth.  God grieves when
people hate and kill others who are different.
Whatever our sexual orientation and religious
background, today's Psalm offers us God's
comfort in the face of hatred, danger, and
overwhelming odds against our survival.
Psalm 3 offers us a stepping stone to God
when enemies outnumber us and when they
gleefully insist God will not hear or answer
our prayers.  Whether we are gay or straight,
with the psalmist we are assured God will
forever be our shield.  God will answer us.

So have a good night's rest, pray for justice,
and whenever possible, use your voice to
raise public awareness of the deadly effects
homophobia has on the world.

God, we praise you who made all people different,
yet alike.  We pray for the day when homophobia
will be globally recognized as the deadly evil
it is.  We pray for the day when the lives and
deaths of gay and lesbian victims, murdered in
Hitler's concentration camps, will be honorably
recorded in all history books.  Hasten the day
when the pink triangle will be universally
recognized as a sign of courage and honor.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site.  You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card!  http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling.  Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing.  You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

CHI RHO CONNECTION

The eNewsletter of Chi Rho Press,
Your LGBT Christian Publishing House
Vol. X, No. 4
25 November 2009

*************************

Contents:

1.      Christmas is Coming!  One Stop Shopping Here!
2.      New 2010 Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC
3.      New 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar!
4.      My Memory Book Reprint
5.      Sterling Silver MCC Crosses and Logos
6.      Adam's Last Word

--------------------------------------------------

Welcome once again to the Chi Rho Connection, the
electronic newsletter of Chi Rho Press. Thank you
for passing this Chi Rho Connection on to others.

To join our list, send an e-mail message to
mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

To remove yourself from this list send an e-mail to
mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Please visit our Web site at http://www.chirhopress.com
to see our entire lines of books, handouts, videos,
tapes, tchochkas, and stained glass.

Direct all other e-mail to Adam@....

--------------------------------------------------

1.      Christmas is Coming!  One Stop Shopping Here!

As I write this edition of the very periodic Chi
Rho Connection, I am quite ready for my Thanksgiving
Feast tomorrow, which is Thanksgiving Day in the
USA.  I have Thursday and Friday off work from my
secular job and major feasts both days!  But looking
at the calendar, I also realize that today is the
25th of November and Christmas Day is one month
away!  Have you finished your Christmas shopping
yet?

What if I told you that I have a place you can shop
without leaving your house, even in your pajamas?
Yes, you guessed it, www.ChiRhoPress.com is a
wonderful place to shop for Christmas, pay with
your MasterCard, Visa, or Discover Card, have your
gifts delivered to your door by a uniformed public
servant, and help YOUR LGBTQ Christian publishing
house as well!

Books make wonderful gifts and we have some great
ones: Steps to Recovery from Bible Abuse, Come
Home by Chris Glaser, Called Out: the Voices
and Gifts of LGBT Presbyterians, Christian with
a Twist, Living as the Beloved, the Bible and
Homosexuality, and lots more.  Plus the new 2010
Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary (see article
number 3), an amazing, beautiful wall calendar
for 2010 (see article number 2), sterling silver
crosses and MCC logos, stained glass made to
order, and lots more.

Please do your Christmas shopping at
www.ChiRhoPress.com.  And may the holiday
season be filled with every good thing for you!

--------------------------------------------------

2.      New 2010 Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC

We are pleased to offer a limited number of the new
Open Door Metropolitan Community Church Garden Wall
Calendar for 2010.  Twelve beautiful pictures of
Open Door MCC (Boyds, Maryland, USA), it's grounds
and memorial garden are featured in this limited
press run calendar.  The photographs are by Scott
Smiley, grounds keeper for Open Door's 12 acres of
gently rolling land.  Chi Rho Press has arranged
for just a limited number of these special calendars.
Order soon as supplies are limited. $20.00 each
plus shipping and handling.

View the Calendar and order at this link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html

--------------------------------------------------

3.      New 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar!

This Sunday is the first day of the new church year,
the first Sunday in Advent!  There is still time to
get your Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary for
Year C, which will start with the first Sunday in
Advent, November 29, 2009. Chi Rho Press' annual
Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary for 2009-2010
is back from the printer and ready to ship. You
may view it and order it at this link: 
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
sells for $12.95 each, $10.50 each for six or more
copies, plus shipping and handling.

The Lectionary in the Liturgical Calendar is from the
Revised Common Lectionary, widely used as the
ecumenical consensus on readings for each Sunday and
holy day in the three-year cycle of the church year.
Our Liturgical Calendar is packed with useful
information for planning worship and preaching in
the local church.  It is intended for use by pastors,
musicians, altar guilds, teachers, theological students,
and anyone using the Church Year as a basis for worship
or education.  The Liturgical Calendar is spiral bound
so it can lie flat for easy use, in the popular 8 ½" x
11" format.

Featured in this new Liturgical Calendar are these
sections: A Heading that identifies the day in the
church year (for example, the first Sunday of Advent)
with alternative descriptions where appropriate.

The Revised Common Lectionary readings, including
a brief summary of each reading.  (These are intended
as only a very brief overview to identify general
themes as an aid to worship planning.  We do not
represent them as anything approaching a thorough
exegesis.)

The First Reading is usually from the Hebrew Testament,
but there are exceptions, such as the use of readings
from Acts during the Easter season.  These are sometimes
selected thematically to fit the Liturgical Calendar,
but often are simply being read through key passages
over a series of weeks.  This is followed by a Response,
usually a Psalm.  The Epistle Reading is next, like the
Hebrew Testament Reading typically a series of key
passages from the same book being read over a number
of weeks.  Finally the Gospel Reading follows the story
of Jesus through the Christmas and Easter cycles, plus
the teachings of Jesus the rest of the year.

Next is a section called "Worship Planning." This
includes suggestions for decorations or symbols for
special seasons, such as Advent wreaths; the
liturgical color for the day; etc.

Rev. Witt has added lots of Notes in the Worship
Planning section, which serve to explain in more
detail information about the time of the church
year, provide resources for further study and
information, and develop liturgical themes to make
your worship experience more rich and meaningful.

Then comes a section called "Special Events," which
includes any special events occurring that day or that
week that you may wish to commemorate, such as
national holidays or special holy days in other religions,
and some special occasions for celebrations of
diversity, such as celebration days for specific
cultures (e.g., Cinco de Mayo) and special days for
the GLBT community (e.g., a day of remembrance for
Matthew Shepherd).

As a special added section, we have included
alternative readings for the four Sundays of
Pride-Tide (June) prepared by the Rev. Gordon
McCoy.  The four sets of readings for Pride-Tide
may be used at any time in the year that the faith
community celebrates LGBT Pride.  The standard
Revised Common Lectionary readings are included
for the four Sundays in June as well.

In addition, the Rev. Gordon McCoy has given us
a special entry for World AIDS Day, December 1st,
with scripture readings and a history of MCC’s
involvement in creating World AIDS Day.

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar will be a helpful
aid for anyone involved in planning worship, as well
as a useful resource for all who want to know more
about the Church year and the rich liturgical life
of the Church Universal.  We think you will like
this Liturgical Calendar.

Order the 2010 Calendar today at this new link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l

The 2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary sells for
$12.95 each, $10.50 each for six or more copies, plus
shipping and handling.

--------------------------------------------------

4.      My Memory Book Reprint

We are pleased to announce that we have had yet
another reprint of the very popular book, "My
Memory Book: A Journal for Grieving Children,"
by Gretchen Gaines, LCSW-C. Please view and
order it on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevMyMemoryBook.html

Though created for children by a children's grief
and bereavement specialist, many adults are using
"My Memory Book" to create memorials for loved ones
who have died.  Like a panel in the AIDS quilt, a
copy of "My Memory Book" can become an important
part of the grief process after losing a beloved
friend or relative.

“I love this workbook for children of all ages,”
says Patricia Kelly, co-author of “Final Gifts”
and a consultant in the Washington, D.C. area.
“This is a book to treasure.”

Space is available throughout the book for the
grieving person to write or draw.  Directions for
over 20 exercises are given on the left hand side
page, and the right hand side page is devoted to
the grieving person’s creative use.  The reader
uses "My Memory Book" to create a book of memories
about the loved one who died that is uniquely his
or her own.  "My Memory Book" encourages written
exercises, collage, journaling, and drawings in
any medium the user cares to employ.

Dr. Phyllis Silverman, one of the most renowned
experts in the bereavement field, writes, “This
is one of the best workbooks I have seen to help
. . . understand the nature of grief.  It
legitimates . . . ties to the deceased and
helps find ways to talk about these connections.”

The unique genius of this book is that it is wonderful
for anyone to use, regardless of age.  “My Memory Book”
provides enough exercises for readers of any age to
return to it again and again to celebrate the life
of one recently lost and of their life together.
The book also includes a special section in the back
for readers to design their own exercises.

Though many buy this book for family members, many
counselors in the professional community have also
recognized the therapeutic benefits of “My Memory
Book” and use the book with their clients.  “This
workbook is a wonderful tool to assist therapists
and counselors in their work with bereaved children,”
says Nancy Boyd Webb, DSW, BCD, Professor, Fordham
University Graduate School of Social Service.

We are proud of their recommendation of this important
book as a bereavement tool for people of all ages.

“My Memory Book” is available from Chi Rho Press for
$10.95 each, $8.95 each for six or more copies, plus
shipping and handling.

See and order this exciting new book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevMyMemoryBook.html

--------------------------------------------------

5.      Sterling Silver MCC Crosses and Logos

Chi Rho Press, your MCC LGBT Christian publishing
house, again carries Solid Sterling Silver MCC
crosses and logos!

A Gay jewelry artist has cast the traditional MCC
Chi Rho cross and the newer MCC logo in Solid
Sterling Silver for Chi Rho Press.

The traditional MCC Cross with the overlapped Greek
letters Chi and Rho in the center (a traditional
monogram for Christ, being the first letters in
the Greek word Christos) and the Greek letters
Alpha and Omega on the cross bar (the first and
last letters in the Greek alphabet, signifying
the Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, the
beginning and the end).  On the reverse of the
cross is the dove of the Holy Spirit.  The Solid
Sterling Silver crosses are 13/16 inches wide and
1 inch tall, and sell for $19.95 each, plus shipping
and handling.  Six or more are $14.95 each, plus
shipping and handling.

The new MCC logo on a round pendant with the flame
of the Holy Spirit intersecting the stylized globe.
The Solid Sterling Silver MCC logos are 7/8 inch in
diameter, and sell for $24.95 each, plus shipping
and handling.  Six or more are $18.95 each, plus
shipping and handling.

Please see and order your MCC Crosses or MCC Logos
at this link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/silver_jewelry.html

--------------------------------------------------

6.      Adam's Last Word

Happy Thanksgiving!

*****

I would love for you to send me articles about
women or men you hold to be your Heroes of the
Faith. Just write to Adam@... with
your remembrance and let me know what you would
like me to say about you as the author.

*****

We are excited about the publication of the
2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary,
Year C. We hope you will order your copies today!

*****

Please encourage members of your church to participate
in the special fund raising offer from Chi Rho Press.
We will make a donation of 10% of all sales from
people who mention your congregation in the "Special
Instructions and Comments" box on the check out page.
Please let your people know as soon as possible about
this opportunity to help both our ministries.

*****

Shipping and Handling Tip: This tip will be
especially important if you are ordering one or
two Liturgical Calendars!

When you are ordering from the Chi Rho Press Web
site, be sure to tell us your preferred shipping
method. The way the shopping cart is set up, the
shipping method defaults to United Parcel Service.
This is NOT the most economical way to ship for
orders under seven pounds. If you want the most
inexpensive shipping (within the United States)
it is usually best to pick USPS (United States
Postal Service Domestic Parcel Post) for packages
weighing under seven pounds. UPS (United Parcel
Service) Ground is more economical for packages
heavier than seven pounds. The shopping cart will
tell you how much your order weighs in the box right
next to your order amount and price. There is a link
there to change your shipping method as well.

When I order one copy of the Liturgical Calendar and
allow the default UPS Ground shipping method, the
shipping cost is almost as much as the book, $10.11!
But if I change the shipping method to USPS Parcel
Post shipping is only $6.28, and it is $6.46 for USPS
Priority Mail.

Be smart shoppers and choose your shipping options
carefully to avoid paying too much!

*****

Gracia y paz,

Brother R. Adam DeBaugh, OSL
Director, Adam@....

******************************************

We are glad you are partners in ministry with us here at
Chi Rho Press. We are eager for your comments, your
suggestions, your assistance with selling our books,
and your own purchases! And of course, we covet your
prayers for this ministry.

If you've received the Chi Rho Connection as a result of
someone passing it along to you and would like to receive
it directly from us, please follow these directions:

To SUBSCRIBE send blank e-mail to:
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Please visit http://www.ChiRhoPress.com. You may
pay by credit card on our web page or we will ship
your order after receiving your check or money
order. Please always include your e-mail address,
mailing address, and telephone number.

For all e-mail correspondence, please write
Adam@....

Our snail mail address is:

Chi Rho Press, Inc.
P.O. Box 7864
Gaithersburg, MD 20898

Our telephone and fax number is 301/926-1208.

Copyright 2009, Chi Rho Press, Inc.

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of November 22, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published! Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l
Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

God's flashlight

"Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my
path."
Psalm 119:105

All of life contains the possibility of meeting
God, and God's self-revelation occurs in many
forms, according to teachers at the world
famous, ecumenical Shalem Institute for
Spiritual Formation (www.shalem.org).  Scripture
is one way of meeting God in human terms.  By
reading sacred words, we are spiritually
empowered.

The Psalmist reminds us that God's word is a lamp
to our feet.  The Psalms can serve as brilliant
flashlights, lighting the path ahead of us.  These
wonderful words can help get us back on our feet
and on our knees, when our lives are chaotic and
in upheaval, when we feel overwhelmed by feelings
of helplessness and hopelessness.

The Psalms can help us get through one moment at
a time, when one day at a time is overwhelming.
God is deeply concerned with our pain.  The
Psalms help us remember that God sees.  God
cares.  God listens and responds with generous
spiritual light when we call out for help.

These Psalm-prayers are time tested and true.
People of faith across the ages have found help
through them during their deepest moments of need.

When we contemplate sin and the dark side of our
lives, the Psalms can serve as a bright light for
cleansing our souls.  They offer us lifelines to
prayer.  If we do not know how to pray, chances
are that the Psalms can help.

God, shine brightly in my life.  Let your words
remove all darkness within me.  Let the Psalms
be a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of November 15, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published! Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l.
Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html.

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Lost and found

"So Jesus told them this parable: 'Which one of you,
having a hundred sheep and losing one of them, does
not leave the ninety-nine in the wilderness and go
after the one that is lost until he finds it?  When
he has found it, he lays it on his shoulders and
rejoices.  And when he comes home, he calls together
his friends and neighbours, saying to them, "Rejoice
with me, for I have found my sheep that was lost."
Just so, I tell you, there will be more joy in heaven
over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine
righteous people who need no repentance.'"
Luke 15:3-7

Though I am an urban woman and am not personally
acquainted with sheep, I do understand the terror
and vulnerability of being lost.  While living in
Washington D.C., I once saw an unforgettable
example of such fear through the eyes of a small
child.  In a large crowd one night during a
Christmas event in the city, a little boy who was
about three or four years old became separated
from his family.  It quickly became obvious that
he was terrified of being lost and equally
terrified of strangers.  When strangers attempted
to befriend him, he would back away and try and
hide in the crowds.  Soon a policeman arrived on
the scene and the little fellow visibly relaxed
and placed his small hand in the officer's large
one.  Together, they began walking hand-in-hand
in search for his parents and disappeared into
the crowd.

Soon a frantic mother came in search of her lost
child.  She urgently and repeatedly called out his
name and asked complete strangers if they had seen
her little boy.  "Yes," said one woman, "He went
with a policeman," and she pointed in the general
direction.  Suddenly the police officer reappeared.
The little boy saw his mother and stopped sobbing.
He threw himself into her arms and she held him
tightly in obvious relief.  Even today, I have
tears in my eyes with the memory of those two
clinging to each other.  The lost child was found.
The worried crowd became joyful, for many had been
concerned over the little child.

And so it is in heaven, as Jesus the Good Shepherd
finds each of us in divine love.  There is exuberant
joy in heaven when we are found.  The Shepherd's
heart is full of compassion and will not be satisfied
until we are found and brought back into loving,
intimate community and personal relationship with
God.  Today's parable in Luke brings us the Gospel
message of Jesus Christ in its most basic simplicity.

I have a cherished pencil sketch of Jesus in my study.
He is lovingly holding a lamb in his arms.  The lamb
has a look of trust and contentment.  The nail marks
are clearly visible on the hands of the Good Shepherd.
We are invited into those loving arms.

Searching Shepherd of our souls, thank you for finding
us.  From time to time, we have all strayed from your
presence like a lost lamb.  Now help us experience the
joy of being found by God.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site.  You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling.  Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing.  You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of November 8, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published! Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l.
Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html.

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation.  We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

The beautiful mind of Christ

"Let the same mind be in you that was in Christ
Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God as something
to be exploited, but emptied himself, taking
the form of a slave, being born in human likeness.
And being found in human form, he humbled himself
and became obedient to the point of death -- even
death on a cross.

Therefore God also highly exalted him and gave him
the name that is above every name, so that at the
name of Jesus every knee should bend, in heaven
and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue
should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the
glory of God the Father."
Philippians 2:5-11

What is on your mind today?  My beloved grandmother
often remarked that if our true thoughts were ever
known, most of us would probably be arrested.  The
mind may forever be a mystery to scientists and
physicians, as they strive to understand the
origins of human behaviors and find cures for
mental illnesses.  Certain thoughts can be harmful
to others and ourselves, if we act on them.

As a minister, I often ask people what they are
thinking.  Whether we share our thoughts
selectively or freely with others, I believe
people of faith need to cultivate the mind of
Christ, for as we think, we often become.

Today's Bible verses offer us insight into the
mind of Christ, through the words of an early
hymn of the Christian church.  Because first
century Christians lacked easy access to written
materials about Christ, and many were illiterate,
singing hymns helped them grow stronger in their
faith, while passing on the truths of the Gospel
to others.  Countless generations of faithful
believers have been strengthened through this
particular hymn of praise, singing it in many
different forms and chants, in their search to
understand and experience the beautiful mind
of Jesus.  Perhaps you too, have sung some of
these phrases, "every knee shall bow, every
tongue confess, that Jesus Christ is Lord."

Now who among us can understand the mind of
God?  Our finite minds will never fully grasp
the beautiful mind of Christ on this side of
eternity.  But today's Bible passage helps.
Although Jesus has always coexisted with the
Creator as an equal part of the Godhead, he
willingly humbled himself to walk among us
in human form.  Christ voluntarily gave up
his heavenly privilege, glory, and comfort,
to share human hardships while confronting
evil.  He took upon himself the lowliest
servant lifestyle imaginable, working as an
impoverished carpenter, living in relative
obscurity.  He chose to work with his hands
in rough, menial labor and eat peasant food.
But there is more to his story.  Jesus was
ever mindful of God's plan for his life,
knowing he was destined to die a shameful,
horrific death on a cross for the sins of the
entire world.  Because of Jesus' willingness
to suffer and die, God has forever exalted
the name of Jesus Christ above all other
names in the world.  While other religions
have much to teach us, it is only the name
of Jesus that will someday bring us all to
our knees in adoration, uniting our voices
in praises to our Creator.  Every knee shall
bow, every tongue confess, that Jesus Christ
is Lord.

My mind is nowhere near the mind of Christ.
With you, I struggle with less than noble
thoughts.  As a sinful humanity, we have
self-serving thoughts and ambitions, often
at the expense of others.  But here is the
hope of the Gospel, as I understand it.
Through prayer, familiarization with the
scriptures, and cultivating a lifestyle
of worship, we can experience in part, the
beautiful mind of Christ.  We can become
less selfish and arrogant, while growing
ever more loving and thoughtful of others.
The mind of Christ transforms, redeems, and
reconciles us with God.  Truly, this is
something to sing about.

Oh God, give us the beautiful mind of Christ
and transform our ways of thinking and
interacting with people.  Empower us to
think his thoughts in safety and in danger,
in comfort and privation, in life and death.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site.  You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling.  Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing.  You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of November 1, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published! Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l.
Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html.

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Anyone, everyone, whosoever, and all

November 1 is All Saints Day
"For God so loved the world that God gave his
only Son, so that everyone who believes in the
Christ may not perish but may have eternal
life."
John 3:16

After spending seven months in the Gospel of
Matthew, it is now time to broaden our horizons.
Today I want introduce you to John 3:16, quite
possibly the most famous verse in the entire
Bible, and the story of Nicodemus.

John 3:16 is also the most misunderstood verse
in the entire Bible when well-intentioned people
of faith put limitations and conditions on its
message.  I want you to know these twenty-eight
words are for anyone, everyone, whosoever, and
all who believe them.  Let me emphasize God's
great love for humankind, and the promise of
eternal life through faith in Jesus Christ, is
not limited to a particular sexual orientation,
race, nationality, class, or gender.  When Jesus
offers God's promises to everyone, he means just
that.

Whoever we may be, we all owe Nicodemus a debt
of gratitude for his courage in approaching
Jesus.  Nicodemus was a prominent and well-
respected Jewish leader, acutely aware that
his career would be jeopardized if he were
seen alone with Jesus.  At great personal
risk, he sought Jesus out for a private,
late night interview.  Jesus graciously agreed
to meet with him and the two rabbis spoke long
into the early morning hours.  During their
conversation, Jesus spoke these wonderful
words of life now known as John 3:16 to
Nicodemus, affirming God's great love for the
world while explaining that eternal life is
freely available for anyone who would believe
in the message of Jesus.

In my study, I have some beautiful pencil
sketches of Jesus by an unknown artist.  In
one of these simple drawings, Jesus is tenderly
holding a wee newborn.  In another, he is
joyfully holding the hands of a very young
child taking its first steps.  The other
sketches reveal Jesus laughing and playing,
listening and gently holding children of
various ages.

With Nicodemus, we need to birth our holy
longings and live as children of God, trusting
Jesus every step of the way.  With Jesus, we
can begin taking baby steps of faith towards
spiritual adulthood and maturity.  No matter
what our age, when we believe in the message
of Jesus, we will always find Jesus nearby,
giving us guidance and strength for each day.

Yes, it is true.  Jesus freely and unconditionally
offers himself to anyone, everyone, whosoever,
and all.  Gay or straight, young or old, male
or female, rich or poor, single or partnered,
John 3:16 is for you.

God, thank you for offering eternal life to
anyone, everyone, whosoever, and all who
believe in Jesus Christ.  Through the story
of Nicodemus, help us experience your great
love for us with a childlike faith.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling.  Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing.  You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of October 25, 2009

**********

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary
has been published!  Please check it out and order
yours at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l.  Also take a look at a lovely new
2010 Garden Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html.

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Ultimate authority

"And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in
heaven and on earth has been given to me.'"
Matthew 28:18

In the aftermath of the September 11, 2001 terrorist
attacks, many prayers were said in many faiths and
in many languages during that time of global grief.
As someone who is committed to respectful interfaith
dialogue and ministry, I began speaking about this
tragedy as a distinctly Christian minister.  I
realized all our voices were needed to offer solace
and comfort to a grieving and shocked nation and
world where thousands of different world religions
struggle to coexist peacefully.

In the difficult days immediately following
September 11, my personal faith in Jesus Christ
was what sustained and encouraged me.  As the
rubble from the World Trade Center buildings and
Pentagon gradually settled, I found myself
frequently on line gazing into the eyes of a
beloved Russian icon painted in Svenigorod, Russia,
by the famous fifteenth century artist Andrei Rublev.
It was the compassionate face of Christ, the
Peacemaker.

To gaze into this beautiful face is to see the face
of God, a face that war, injustice, hatred, betrayal,
and violence cannot remove from our world.  To look
into the compassionate eyes of this icon is to
experience the kindness and unlimited goodness and
love of God.  It is a face full of love and strength,
courage and comfort.  It is a holy face that reminds
us of God's deep compassion for a suffering humanity.
It is a sacred face worthy of contemplation for
Christians, Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists.

In a religiously pluralistic world full of competing
voices calling for your allegiance, what faith
sustains you in times of chaos and pain?  What
divine authority do you answer to and call on for
help?  Consider trusting Jesus Christ as your ultimate
authority, and you will find direction, strength,
solace, courage, and hope in your times of need.

God, bless us with renewed faith and trust in Jesus
Christ.  Teach us how to live under Christ's divine
authority, leadership, and guidance in our daily
lives.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
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m

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CHI RHO CONNECTION

The eNewsletter of Chi Rho Press,
Your LGBT Christian Publishing House
Vol. X, No. 3
20 October 2009

*************************

Contents:

1.      New 2010 Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC
2.      New 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar!
3.      My Memory Book Reprint
4.      Sterling Silver MCC Crosses and Logos
5.      Special for Churches
6.      Adam's Last Word

--------------------------------------------------

Welcome once again to the Chi Rho Connection, the
electronic newsletter of Chi Rho Press.  Thank you
for passing this Chi Rho Connection on to others.

To join our list, send an e-mail message to
mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

To remove yourself from this list send an e-mail to
mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Please visit our Web site at http://www.chirhopress.com
to see our entire lines of books, handouts, videos,
tapes, tchochkas, and stained glass.

Direct all other e-mail to Adam@....

--------------------------------------------------

1.      New 2010 Wall Calendar from Open Door MCC

We are pleased to offer a limited number of the new
Open Door Metropolitan Community Church Garden Wall
Calendar for 2010.  Twelve beautiful pictures of
Open Door MCC (Boyds, Maryland, USA), it's grounds
and memorial garden are featured in this limited
press run calendar.  The photographs are by Scott
Smiley, grounds keeper for Open Door's 12 acres of
gently rolling land.  Chi Rho Press has arranged
for just a limited number of these special calendars.
Order soon as supplies are limited.  $20.00 each
plus shipping and handling.

View the Calendar and order at this link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/ODMCC_Calendar.html

--------------------------------------------------

2.      New 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar!

The new Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary is out!
The new Church Year, Year C, will start with the
first Sunday in Advent, November 29, 2009.  Chi
Rho Press' annual Liturgical Calendar and
Lectionary for 2009-2010 is back from the printer
and ready to ship.  You may view it and order it
at this link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary sells
for $12.95 each, $10.50 each for six or more copies, plus
shipping and handling.

The Lectionary in the Liturgical Calendar is from the
Revised Common Lectionary, widely used as the
ecumenical consensus on readings for each Sunday and
holy day in the three-year cycle of the church year.
Our Liturgical Calendar is packed with useful
information for planning worship and preaching in
the local church.  It is intended for use by pastors,
musicians, altar guilds, teachers, theological students,
and anyone using the Church Year as a basis for worship
or education.  The Liturgical Calendar is spiral bound
so it can lie flat for easy use, in the popular 8 ½" x
11" format.

Featured in this new Liturgical Calendar are these
sections: A Heading that identifies the day in the
church year (for example, the first Sunday of Advent)
with alternative descriptions where appropriate.
The Revised Common Lectionary readings, including
a brief summary of each reading.  (These are intended
as only a very brief overview to identify general
themes as an aid to worship planning.  We do not
represent them as anything approaching a thorough
exegesis.)

The First Reading is usually from the Hebrew Testament,
but there are exceptions, such as the use of readings
from Acts during the Easter season.  These are sometimes
selected thematically to fit the Liturgical Calendar,
but often are simply being read through key passages
over a series of weeks.  This is followed by a Response,
usually a Psalm.  The Epistle Reading is next, like the
Hebrew Testament Reading typically a series of key
passages from the same book being read over a number
of weeks.  Finally the Gospel Reading follows the story
of Jesus through the Christmas and Easter cycles, plus
the teachings of Jesus the rest of the year.

Next is a section called "Worship Planning."  This
includes suggestions for decorations or symbols for
special seasons, such as Advent wreaths; the
liturgical color for the day; etc.

Rev. Witt has added lots of Notes in the Worship
Planning section, which serve to explain in more
detail information about the time of the church
year, provide resources for further study and
information, and develop liturgical themes to make
your worship experience more rich and meaningful.

Then comes a section called "Special Events," which
includes any special events occurring that day or that
week that you may wish to commemorate, such as
national holidays or special holy days in other religions,
and some special occasions for celebrations of
diversity, such as celebration days for specific
cultures (e.g., Cinco de Mayo) and special days for
the GLBT community (e.g., a day of remembrance for
Matthew Shepard).

As a special added section, we have included
alternative readings for the four Sundays of
Pride-Tide (June) prepared by the Rev. Gordon
McCoy.  The four sets of readings for Pride-Tide
may be used at any time in the year that the faith
community celebrates LGBT Pride.  The standard
Revised Common Lectionary readings are included
for the four Sundays in June as well.

In addition, the Rev. Gordon McCoy has given us
a special entry for World AIDS Day, December 1st,
with scripture readings and a history of MCC’s
involvement in creating World AIDS Day.

The 2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar will be a helpful
aid for anyone involved in planning worship, as well
as a useful resource for all who want to know more
about the Church year and the rich liturgical life
of the Church Universal.  We think you will like
this Liturgical Calendar.

Order the 2010 Calendar today at this new link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLiturgicalCa09_10.htm\
l

The 2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary sells for
$12.95 each, $10.50 each for six or more copies, plus
shipping and handling.

--------------------------------------------------

3.      My Memory Book Reprint

We are pleased to announce that we have had yet
another reprint of the very popular book, "My
Memory Book: A Journal for Grieving Children,"
by Gretchen Gaines, LCSW-C.  Please view and
order it on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevMyMemoryBook.html

Though created for children by a children's grief
and bereavement specialist, many adults are using
"My Memory Book" to create memorials for loved ones
who have died.  Like a panel in the AIDS quilt, a
copy of "My Memory Book" can become an important
part of the grief process after losing a beloved
friend or relative.

“I love this workbook for children of all ages,”
says Patricia Kelly, co-author of “Final Gifts”
and a consultant in the Washington, D.C. area.
“This is a book to treasure.”

Space is available throughout the book for the
grieving person to write or draw.  Directions for
over 20 exercises are given on the left hand side
page, and the right hand side page is devoted to
the grieving person’s creative use.  The reader
uses "My Memory Book" to create a book of memories
about the loved one who died that is uniquely his
or her own.  "My Memory Book" encourages written
exercises, collage, journaling, and drawings in
any medium the user cares to employ.

Dr. Phyllis Silverman, one of the most renowned
experts in the bereavement field, writes, “This
is one of the best workbooks I have seen to help
. . . understand the nature of grief.  It
legitimates . . . ties to the deceased and
helps find ways to talk about these connections.”

The unique genius of this book is that it is wonderful
for anyone to use, regardless of age.  “My Memory Book”
provides enough exercises for readers of any age to
return to it again and again to celebrate the life
of one recently lost and of their life together.
The book also includes a special section in the back
for readers to design their own exercises.

Though many buy this book for family members, many
counselors in the professional community have also
recognized the therapeutic benefits of “My Memory
Book” and use the book with their clients.  “This
workbook is a wonderful tool to assist therapists
and counselors in their work with bereaved children,”
says Nancy Boyd Webb, DSW, BCD, Professor, Fordham
University Graduate School of Social Service.

We are proud of their recommendation of this important
book as a bereavement tool for people of all ages.

“My Memory Book” is available from Chi Rho Press for
$10.95 each, $8.95 each for six or more copies, plus
shipping and handling.

See and order this exciting new book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevMyMemoryBook.html

--------------------------------------------------

4.      Sterling Silver MCC Crosses and Logos

Chi Rho Press, your MCC LGBT Christian publishing
house, again carries Solid Sterling Silver MCC
crosses and logos!

A Gay jewelry artist has cast the traditional MCC
Chi Rho cross and the newer MCC logo in Solid
Sterling Silver for Chi Rho Press.

The traditional MCC Cross with the overlapped Greek
letters Chi and Rho in the center (a traditional
monogram for Christ, being the first letters in
the Greek word Christos) and the Greek letters
Alpha and Omega on the cross bar (the first and
last letters in the Greek alphabet, signifying
the Jesus is the Alpha and the Omega, the
beginning and the end).  On the reverse of the
cross is the dove of the Holy Spirit.  The Solid
Sterling Silver crosses are 13/16 inches wide and
1 inch tall, and sell for $19.95 each, plus shipping
and handling.  Six or more are $14.95 each, plus
shipping and handling.

The new MCC logo on a round pendant with the flame
of the Holy Spirit intersecting the stylized globe.
The Solid Sterling Silver MCC logos are 7/8 inch in
diameter, and sell for $24.95 each, plus shipping
and handling.  Six or more are $18.95 each, plus
shipping and handling.

Please see and order your MCC Crosses or MCC Logos
at this link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/silver_jewelry.html

--------------------------------------------------

5.      Special for Churches

Here's a way for your local congregation to partner with
Chi Rho Press and to make some money as well.  Chi Rho
Press is an LGBT Christian publishing house that is part
MCC.

Chi Rho Press will give your church a donation of 10%
of sales from people who list your church in the on-line
secure Web site order form.

Let your congregation know about this special offer and
send them to the Chi Rho Press Web site,
http://www.ChiRhoPress.com.  When they place an order,
ask them to list your church name and address in the
"Special Instructions" box on the check out page.

Chi Rho Press will send 10% of the total order,
including shipping and handling, to your church.

Please advertise this in your church bulletin, newsletter,
Web site, list-serve, or other communication medium.
Spread the word and earn money for your ministries while
helping this ministry to grow.

Please let us know if you are going to participate by
writing to Adam@....  Thank you!

--------------------------------------------------

6.      Adam's Last Word

Many of you were no doubt in Washington DC for the
National Equality March recently.  My favorite sign
read, "It's the Equality, Stupid!"

While a great big street party and march can be a
cathartic and wonderful experience, if you want to
continue with some really significant political
action, please take time this week and write four
letters:  one to your US Congressperson, one to
each of your two Senators, and one to the President
of the United States.

Write urging them to be proactive with pro-gay
legislation that means a lot to you, whether it
is marriage equality, hate crimes, HIV/AIDS funding
for research, immigration reform, an end to Don’t
Ask, Don’t Tell, or basic civil rights in employment,
housing, and public accommodations.  Marching is a
good and cathartic thing.  But as President John
Kennedy said, "Everybody's vote counts in America,
but those who sit down and write letters make their
votes count more times."

*****

I would love for you to send me articles about
women or men you hold to be your Heroes of the
Faith.  Just write to Adam@... with
your remembrance and let me know what you would
like me to say about you as the author.

*****

We are excited about the publication of the
2009-2010 Liturgical Calendar and Lectionary,
Year C.  We hope you will order your copies today!

*****

Please encourage members of your church to participate
in the special fund raising offer from Chi Rho Press.
We will make a donation of 10% of all sales from
people who mention your congregation in the "Special
Instructions and Comments" box on the check out page.
Please let your people know as soon as possible about
this opportunity to help both our ministries.

*****

Shipping and Handling Tip:  This tip will be
especially important if you are ordering one or
two Liturgical Calendars!

When you are ordering from the Chi Rho Press Web
site, be sure to tell us your preferred shipping
method.  The way the shopping cart is set up, the
shipping method defaults to United Parcel Service.
This is NOT the most economical way to ship for
orders under seven pounds.  If you want the most
inexpensive shipping (within the United States)
it is usually best to pick USPS (United States
Postal Service Domestic Parcel Post) for packages
weighing under seven pounds.  UPS (United Parcel
Service) Ground is more economical for packages
heavier than seven pounds.  The shopping cart will
tell you how much your order weighs in the box right
next to your order amount and price.  There is a link
there to change your shipping method as well.

When I order one copy of the Liturgical Calendar and
allow the default UPS Ground shipping method, the
shipping cost is almost as much as the book, $10.11!
But if I change the shipping method to USPS Parcel
Post shipping is only $6.28, and it is $6.46 for USPS
Priority Mail.

Be smart shoppers and choose your shipping options
carefully to avoid paying too much!

*****

Gracia y paz,

Brother R. Adam DeBaugh, OSL
Director, Adam@....

******************************************

We are glad you are partners in ministry with us here at
Chi Rho Press. We are eager for your comments, your
suggestions, your assistance with selling our books,
and your own purchases! And of course, we covet your
prayers for this ministry.

If you've received the Chi Rho Connection as a result of
someone passing it along to you and would like to receive
it directly from us, please follow these directions:

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Please visit http://www.ChiRhoPress.com. You may
pay by credit card on our web page or we will ship
your order after receiving your check or money
order. Please always include your e-mail address,
mailing address, and telephone number.

For all e-mail correspondence, please write
Adam@....

Our snail mail address is:

Chi Rho Press, Inc.
P.O. Box 7864
Gaithersburg, MD 20898

Our telephone and fax number is 301/926-1208.

Copyright 2009, Chi Rho Press, Inc.

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of October 18, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Mothers

"Many women were also there, looking on from a
distance; they had followed Jesus from Galilee
and had provided for him.  Among them were Mary
Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joseph,
and the mother of the sons of Zebedee."
Matthew 27:55-56

An ancient Hebrew proverb tells us, "God could
not be everywhere, therefore he made mothers."
Today's verses offer us profound insights through
the combined knowledge, wisdom, love, and courage
of these mothers at the cross.  Many women grieved
at the cross, observing from a distance.

They had faithfully followed Jesus and cared for
his needs and those of the disciples.  Many had
used their own personal resources to provide for
this remarkable spiritual leader.  Even in the
midst of danger, they courageously stood by the
cross and watched their beloved friend, teacher,
healer, and rabbi die an agonizing and shameful
death.  Who were these remarkable female spiritual
leaders of such great courage, love, loyalty, and
wisdom?

Mary Magdalene had experienced profound spiritual
healing and community with Jesus (Luke 8:1-3).  We
really do not know who Mary the mother of James and
Joses is, but the biblical text soon tells us she
watched with Mary Magdalene as the tomb in which
Jesus was buried was sealed (Matthew 27:61; Mark
15:47).  Many women had joyously followed and
served Jesus in humble, practical ways throughout
his ministry.  He had always treated them with the
utmost of respect and as valued people of great
worth and equality.  He was thousands of years
ahead of any human rights movement.

We have seen the mother of Zebedee's sons earlier
(Matthew 20:20-28).  She and her sons had approached
Jesus privately.  They made a request for power,
prestige, privilege, and promotion that outraged
the other loyal disciples when they learned of it.
They had made their requests known to Jesus from
their knees in postures of humble supplication.
At that time, Jesus asked them all if they could
drink of the cup he was to drink.  They eagerly
said they could.  I wonder if this mother was
remembering that conversation with Jesus as she
watched him die.  I wonder what her thoughts and
prayers were at the cross.

Let us observe this scene for a few moments.
Jesus is dead on the cross.  Many women watched
and grieved from a distance.  The earth has been
shaking and the sky is dark.  The soldiers are
terrified.  The religious leaders are satisfied
their enemy, Jesus, is finally dead.

Where are we in this picture?  What are our
houghts and prayers?  What spiritual direction
are we given through these verses?

Oh God, bless us with the love, courage, loyalty,
and wisdom of these women who watched from a
distance.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of October 4, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

The potter's field

"But the chief priests, taking the pieces of silver,
said, 'It is not lawful to put them into the treasury,
since they are blood money.'  After conferring together,
they used them to buy the potter's field as a place to
bury foreigners.  For this reason that field has been
called the Field of Blood to this day.  Then was
fulfilled what had been spoken through the prophet
Jeremiah, 'And they took the thirty pieces of silver,
the price of the one on whom a price had been set, on
whom some of the people of Israel had set a price, and
they gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord
commanded me.'"
Matthew 27:6-10

The same religious leaders who had Jesus condemned to
death on a blasphemy charge now had two new problems.
Both the corpse of Judas Iscariot and his betrayal
money raised questions.  What were they to do with
the blood money returned to them by Judas Iscariot?
While he was alive, Judas had been a useful pawn in
betraying Jesus.  Dead at his own hands, what were
they now to do with the body?

In the agony of remorse, Judas tragically hung himself.
According to religious laws, the money was tainted and
could not be used for the temple or synagogue.  There
was no way it could be legally laundered for religious
spending.  Not only was Judas' money difficult to use,
but he had to be buried according to the law.  In their
religion, those who committed suicide were not allowed
to rest in peace among their honored dead.  Judas could
not even be buried among his own people.

Although scripture does not tell us exactly where Judas
was buried, I have often wondered if his body was laid
to rest in the potter's field under the tree where he
hung himself.  The authorities could then solve two
problems at once by buying the field where the
desperate Judas took his life with the tainted money
and still honor their burial practices.  The field
could then be used as burial site for foreigners, for
it was against their religion to bury non-Jewish
corpses among Orthodox Jews, a custom still practiced
today.

I also wonder if any family and friends came to his
grave to weep and mourn, or if any priest cared enough
to offer prayers and words of solace at his gravesite.
Was Judas  shunned in death by the remaining disciples?
We will never know.

I am convinced of one thing.  I am confident God had
mercy on his tortured soul.  Judas' evil betrayal of
Jesus had unwittingly fulfilled divine prophecy.
Without the death of Christ, there could be no
resurrection hope!

God, through this final meditation on Judas Iscariot,
help me continue to learn from his life and death.
Open my eyes to corrupt religious and secular
practices that result in blood money in our
contemporary society.  Help me whenever possible
to be an agent of change and reform.  May I also
comfort those grieving over loved ones who have
committed suicide with compassion, not judgment.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of September 27, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation.  We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

The best of intentions

"Then Jesus said to them, 'You will all become
deserters because of me this night; for it is
written, "I will strike the shepherd, and the
sheep of the flock will be scattered."  But
after I am raised up, I will go ahead of you
to Galilee.'  Peter said to him, 'Though all
become deserters because of you, I will never
desert you.'  Jesus said to him, 'Truly I tell
you, this very night, before the cock crows, you
will deny me three times.'  Peter said to him,
'Even though I must die with you, I will not
deny you.'  And so said all the disciples."
Matthew 26:31-35

Perhaps it was the drama at the Passover dinner
table and the solemn mood of the gathered group
of disciples.  Impulsive Peter blurts out his
loyalty and love for Jesus.  Even if all others
desert you, Jesus, I never will!  And Jesus
assures Peter that he will indeed deny knowing
and following his beloved Teacher not once, but
three times before the rooster crows.

I have heard a number of sermons over the years
about this event.  Peter has been thoroughly
criticized for his inadequate faith and courage.
But let us pause for a moment of honest self-
reflection.  What would we have done if we had
been in Peter's sandals?  I would like to think
I would never disown Jesus, as the emotional
Peter will soon do, but we would be wise to never
say never.  Our words and promises can return to
haunt us.  The best of intentions fail under
pressure, fear, isolation, loneliness, and the
threat of violence and personal harm.

Peter had every intention of remaining loyal to
Jesus as he fervently spoke from the depths of
his heart.  The other disciples quickly chimed
in with assurances of their support and loyalty,
heartened by Peter's bold words.  Yet all too
soon, these disciples would run for their lives
and abandon Jesus to the mercy of his enemies.

The followers of Jesus are only human.  Along
with Peter and the other disciples, we too, might
find ourselves experiencing the great temptation
to play it safe and deny our spiritual loyalties
in the face of ridicule or rejection.  There are
places in the world where those who identify with
Christ might even encounter physical danger,
persecution, and even death.  When we are afraid
or at risk because of our personal beliefs, our
survival instinct may be stronger than our earlier
words of faithful allegiance.

Life is full of many good intentions.  We let
others know we intend to stop smoking, excessive
drinking, drug use, or overeating.  We intend to
exercise more and take better care of ourselves.
We offer our assistance and loyalty to people and
causes important to us, but when the going gets
tough or inconvenient, perhaps we fail to show
up or neglect to provide promised support of all
kinds.  We mean to be helpful but sometimes
overlook the cost of our promises.  Talk has
always been cheap.  Commitment is costly and
requires endurance, resolve, and periodic
rededication throughout our entire lives.

Where is the hope in Peter's story?  I find great
hope in the realization that Jesus understands
our human fallibility and the deepest motives of
our hearts.  No matter how often we fail, with
the help of God, we can try, and try again.  So
never give up trying to live for Jesus.  When we
are faithless, he is always faithful.  Learn from
past failures and confess them to God.  Peter
offers us a great role model.  Although he would
soon deny Jesus, he was able to rededicate his
life to the risen Christ and became a great leader
in the early Christian church.  Never underestimate
God's ability to transform our failures into divine
success stories.

God, we have all failed in our good intentions
somewhere or at some point in our lives.  Perhaps
we have deeply hurt others as a result.  Show us
today if there are areas in our lives where we have
denied our loyalty and allegiance to Jesus and his
teachings publicly or privately.  Give us the courage
to recommit ourselves to him and start anew.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of September 20, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

The parable of the ten virgins

Jesus said, "Then the kingdom of heaven will be
like this.  Ten bridesmaids took their lamps and
went to meet the bridegroom.  Five of them were
foolish, and five were wise.  When the foolish
took their lamps, they took no oil with them; but
the wise took flasks of oil with their lamps.  As
the bridegroom was delayed, all of them became
drowsy and slept.  But at midnight there was a
shout, 'Look!  Here is the bridegroom!  Come out
to meet him.'  Then all those bridesmaids got up
and trimmed their lamps.  The foolish said to the
wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are
going out.'  But the wise replied, 'No! There will
not be enough for you and for us; you had better
go to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.'
And while they went to buy it, the bridegroom
came, and those who were ready went with him into
the wedding banquet; and the door was shut.  Later
the other bridesmaids came also, saying, 'Lord,
lord, open to us.'  But he replied, 'Truly I tell
you, I do not know you.'  Keep awake therefore,
for you know neither the day nor the hour."
Matthew 25:1-13

Are we wise, alert, and prepared?  Or are we
foolish and unprepared?  Today we need honest
self-discernment to understand this lesson about
the kingdom of heaven.

It is a disturbing parable for the latecomers who
miss the wedding feast and find the door closed in
their faces.  The doorkeeper has these chilling
words for the foolish virgins, "I tell you the
truth, I do not know you."  F. F. Bruce notes in
The Hard Sayings of Jesus that the ten virgins did
not appear to have been bridesmaids or even specially
invited guests.  He suggests they were local village
girls who decided to form a torchlight procession
and escort the bridegroom and his party to the house
where the wedding feast was to be held.  They knew
if they did, there would be a place at the feast for
them, where they could share the good cheer.  Even
today centuries later, there are parts of the world
where a wedding feast is a public occasion for the
neighborhood.  All who come will find a welcome and
something to eat and drink.

There was no time announced for the event.  Some of
the waiting women were wise and brought extra oil
for their lamps.  Others were foolish and unprepared.
Those who had prepared did not share their oil supply
with the foolish ones.  Those refused entry to the
wedding banquet returned to their homes in the dark,
tired and disappointed.

All the oil was good while it lasted, but not
everyone prepared enough for tomorrow's needs.
We cannot always rely on yesterday's experiences
of grace.  We must be prepared and watchful every
day.  Times of testing come without warning.  Will
we be prepared and wise?  Or will we be foolish?
So it will be when Christ returns for the second
time.  We do not know the day or the hour.

God, Jesus had a reason for teaching this parable.
Bless my understanding and help me live more alertly
today.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of September 13, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Sins of our ancestors

Jesus said, "Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees,
hypocrites!  For you build the tombs of the
prophets and decorate the graves of the righteous,
and you say, 'If we had lived in the days of our
ancestors, we would not have taken part with them
in shedding the blood of the prophets.'  Thus you
testify against yourselves that you are descendants
of those who murdered the prophets.  Fill up, then,
the measure of your ancestors.'"
Matthew 23:29-32

The sins of our ancestors come back to us.  Sooner
or later we reap what we sow.  Every family closet
has skeletons that need to be examined and purged.
The good news of the gospel is that we do not have
to be stuck in the past.  With the help of God, we
can learn from our family and spiritual histories,
gain insight and strength, and be spiritually
empowered for present and future living.

Our ancestors can teach us many lessons.  Just the
other day, some missionaries from another faith
denomination came to my door.  They graciously
offered free genealogy services at their own
expense "with absolutely no obligation."  Their
card said, "Families are forever."  If we do not
learn from the lessons of history, we are bound to
repeat those mistakes again and again.  The "sins
of our forebears" are worth learning from.  We can
save ourselves from repeating their mistakes such
as abusive and spiritually destructive behaviors
and attitudes.

Who has not been spiritually blind at some point in
our lives?  Who has not failed to honor the prophets
among us?  They might be religious figures or social
activists, family or teachers, friends or preachers,
famous or unknown.  Prophets come in many forms.

God, help us learn from the sins of our ancestors
and all who preceded us in our faith.  Help us
recognize and respect the prophets in our midst.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of September 6, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Religious hypocrisy and sickness

"Then said Jesus to the crowds and to his disciples,
'The scribes and the Pharisees sit on Moses' seat;
so practice and observe whatever they tell you,
but not what they do; for they preach, but do not
practice.  They bind heavy burdens, hard to bear,
and lay them on people's shoulders; but they
themselves will not move them with their finger.
They do all their deeds to be seen by all; for
they make their phylacteries broad and their
fringes long, and they love the place of honor
at feasts and the best seats in the synagogues,
and salutations in the market places, and being
called rabbi by people.  But you are not to be
called rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you
are all brethren.  And call no one your father
on earth, for you have one Father, who is in
heaven.  Neither be called masters, for you have
one master, the Christ.  They who are greatest
among you shall be your servant; whoever exalts
himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles
himself will be exalted. "
Matthew 23:1-12

An old calendar of mine has this saying, "Make
your life your sermon."  I must admit a feeling
of caution as we approach this chapter in Matthew,
commonly known as the "Seven Woes."  Human nature,
being what it is, encourages a rapid and shallow
reading of uncomfortable scriptures.  Oh, we may
say, this does not apply to me.  Yet all of us
harbor the potential of being a religious
hypocrite.  It is so easy to do.

Who has not wanted others to do what we say and
not what we do.  Yet spiritual leadership calls
for brutally honest moments of self-examination.
We might find ourselves in these verses.  So
together, let us do something daily that helps
us grow spiritually.  Let us slowly digest the
twenty-third chapter of Matthew over the course
of a week as contemplative readers.  Allow
yourself to reflect on it in moments of silent
stillness.  Let the silence change, calm, and
illuminate your understanding of these verses.
Let this be time for inner change.

Who has not failed to practice what they preached?
Who has not put burdens on others that we ourselves
had no intention of assuming?  Who has not done
something during our lives for public acclaim,
recognition, and fame?  Who has not loved being
in places of honor and the best seats?  Who does
not love being called by their full and official
titles of respect and recognition?

Jesus calls us to look honestly within ourselves.
Those among us who have exalted themselves at the
expense of others will be humbled.  Discipleship
according to Jesus is humble living with the heart
of a servant.  God will exalt the humble in divine
timing.

God, give us the inward courage for personal and
fearless self-examination.  Help us have the mind
and heart of Christ.  Give us the courage to
change the things we can.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of August 30, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

The prostitutes

Jesus taught this parable, "What do you think?  A
man had two sons; and he went to the first and said,
'Son, go and work in the vineyard today.'  And the
son answered, 'I will not';  but afterward he
repented and went.  And the father went to the
second and said the same; and he answered, 'I go,
sir,' but did not go.  Which of the two did the
will of his father?"  They said, "The first."
Jesus said to them, "Truly, I say to you, the tax
collectors and the harlots go into the kingdom of
God before you.  For John came to you in the way
of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but
the tax collectors and the harlots believed him;
and even when you saw it, you did not afterward
repent and believe him."
Matthew 21:28-32

The religious leaders who had been debating with
Jesus were probably very unhappy with this
conversation!  While the truth hurts, it also
instructs.  Our cherished religions can sometimes
prevent or limit us from experiencing and sharing
God's incredible spiritual generosity and
hospitality.

"God has no religion," said Mahatma Gandhi.  Jesus
did not seem to promote any particular religion.
He did however, preach and teach the radical
lifestyle and spiritual revolution of the inclusive
kingdom of God.  The religious leaders of his day
overwhelmingly rejected his teachings.  Jesus was
pushing their boundaries.  His God was too big for
them to fathom in their rigid religion.

This was also the message of John the Baptist, get
ready for this amazing realm of God to come, repent
and turn from your sins, believe and be baptized,
follow Jesus Christ, realize you are not worthy to
even untie his shoes, become a follower (disciple)
of Jesus.

The despised, marginalized, outcasts, and common
people heard Jesus gladly.  Jesus confronted the
"religious right" of his day with this amazing
truth.  Sometimes the rowdy, irreverent,
rambunctious, and rejected sinners are more
spiritually receptive than the rigidly religious
to God's grace and mercy.  Many such people become
eager disciples of Jesus and are grateful for being
included and welcomed into the realm of God.  God's
family is inclusive and welcoming.

Is this the kind of heaven you want to enter?
Imagine being in heaven full of such companions
for eternity.  Imagine being in the realm of God
where people of all sexual orientations love and
care for each other.  Imagine living in heaven
with former prostitutes as your neighbors.
Imagine God's delight to see us all living
harmoniously together as the body of Christ.

Imagine both irreverent and reverent people
becoming devoted followers of Jesus Christ.

God, I too, want to experience your grace and
mercy along with the prostitutes and tax
collectors as a devoted follower of Jesus
Christ.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site.  You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
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$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing.  You can find
this book on our Web site at
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of August 23, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

The ultimate reality of the Gospel

"And as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, he took
the twelve disciples aside, and on the way he said
to them, 'Behold, we are going up to Jerusalem;
and the Son of man will be delivered to the chief
priests and scribes, and they will condemn him to
death, and deliver him to the Gentiles to be mocked
and scourged and crucified, and he will be raised
on the third day.'"
Matthew 20:17-19

From the very beginning of his ministry, Jesus was
a man with a mission from God.  He knew why he was
born and what was required of him.  The looming
cross was to be a critical and essential part of
the gospel message.  Without the cross, we could
not have Easter and resurrection hope.  But the
disciples did not understand this at all.  To them,
Jesus was a wonderful prophet, teacher, healer,
miracle worker, and friend sent from God.  He was
wonderful to be with and they loved him.  They had
left everything to serve him.  The disciples did
not want Jesus to suffer and die.

Matthew's Gospel describes Jesus preparing the
disciples again for the inevitable harsh reality
awaiting them.  He was going to be betrayed and
denied justice.  Jesus was going to be tortured
before dying a shameful and agonizing death.
Then he was going to conquer both death and
sin through resurrection power, that is, by
being raised to life!

Our sins and the sins of the world led him to the
cross.  On the cross, Jesus paid the full price
and penalty for all our sins of omission and
commission.  None of us are perfect.  Only Jesus
Christ is the sinless one.  He is the great
friend of sinners.  "All of us have sinned and
fallen short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23
NIV).  There is no greater love than when Christ
willingly went to the cross for us.  This is the
ultimate reality of the Gospel message.

Jesus was innocent.  He did not commit crimes; he
had no sin in his life.  Madeleine L'Engle calls
Jesus "a great universe-disturber, so upsetting
to the establishment of his day that they put
him on a cross, hoping to finish him off.  Those
of us who try to follow his Way have a choice,
either to go with him as universe-disturbers,
or to play it safe.  Playing it safe ultimately
leads to personal diminishment and death" (L'Engle,
Madeleine, "Glimpses of Grace," p. 108).

L'Engle tells us more about what it means to be a
disturber, "If we disturb the universe, no matter
how lovingly, we're likely to get hurt.  Nobody
ever promised that universe-disturbers would have
an easy time of it.  Universe-disturbers make
waves, rock boats, upset establishments.  Gandhi
upset the great British Empire.  Despite his non-
violence, he was unable to stop the shedding of
blood. . . . Anwar Sadat tried to work for
peace . . . knowing that he might die for what
he was doing, and he did."  Jesus calls us to
join him in being universe-disturbers.

Evil constantly attempts to conquer Love.  The
good news and ultimate reality of the Gospel is
that God conquers evil with the divine Light and
Love of Jesus Christ revealed on the cross.

God, bless us as we reverently contemplate the
ultimate reality of the Gospel message.  Help
us understand what it means to be a universe-
disturber as we strive to follow Jesus.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of August 16, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Forgiveness seventy-seven times

"Then Peter came up and said to Jesus, 'Lord, how
often shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive
him?  As many as seven times?'  Jesus said to him,
'I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times
seven.'"
Matthew 18:21-22

I believe it was Winston Churchill who said, "We
shape our dwellings, and afterwards our dwellings
shape us."  If we are unforgiving in our spirits,
our dwellings will be shaped by bitterness,
resentment, hatred, and intolerance.  We become
spiritually damaged when we refuse to forgive.
Forgiveness begets forgiveness.

The other evening I was watching a World War II
documentary about American prisoners of war (POWs).
The POWs suffered horrible atrocities at the hands
of their Japanese captors.  Their suffering defies
description.  Many shared their memories of beloved
comrades who died of torture, malnutrition, and
disease.  Some wept.  One veteran said, "I can
forgive them but I can never forget what they did."

That same day I happened to read a newspaper article
from a Japanese-American citizen who was unjustly
imprisoned simply for his ethnic heritage during
that war.  His comments were strikingly similar.
His family also suffered terribly at the hands of
their fellow American captors.

Several years ago I read the autobiography of Corrie
ten Boom.  This remarkable woman and her family were
also POWs.  Her captors were German.  Their "crimes"
were those of Christian compassion.  They protected
Jewish refugees from Hitler's holocaust until they
were discovered and put in a brutal concentration
camp.  Her beloved sister and father died cruel
deaths at the hands of the Nazis.

Years after the war, to her dismay while speaking
at a church group, a former Nazi prison guard
approached.  His hand reached out to her in
friendship and she instantly remembered his
cruelty toward her and especially to her sister.
The former tormentor personally asked her
forgiveness.

For years, this man had been deeply troubled in
his spirit for his crimes against humanity and
yearned for forgiveness.  When he saw Corrie
ten Boom, he eagerly rushed to meet her.  It
was only with the help of God that she could
forgive him, but it was a struggle.  Corrie ten
Boom remembered her sister's suffering as if it
had happened only yesterday.

Jesus is teaching us through a parable about
forgiveness and the kingdom of heaven in the
following verses.  The parable concludes with
his comment, "This is how my heavenly Father
will treat each of you unless you forgive your
brother [or sister] from your heart" (Matthew
18:35 NIV).  Jesus never asks us to do what he
was unwilling or unable to do.

At the Washington National Cathedral, in a tiny
prayer area, a large cross of nails hangs on a
wall in front of a prayer kneeler.  The words
"Father, forgive" are engraved on the plaque.
These two words sear into my soul. It is good
to learn from ancient wisdom and "be quick to
listen, slow to speak, and slow to become angry"
(James 1:19 NIV).  We must learn to forgive as
Jesus did.

God, help us forgive!  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of August 9, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Mustard seed faith

"When they came to the crowd, a man came to him,
knelt before him, and said, 'Lord, have mercy on
my son, for he is an epileptic and he suffers
terribly; he often falls into the fire and often
into the water.  And I brought him to your
disciples, but they could not cure him.'  Jesus
answered, 'You faithless and perverse generation,
how much longer must I be with you?  How much
longer must I put up with you?  Bring him here
to me.'  And Jesus rebuked the demon, and it
came out of him, and the boy was cured instantly.
Then the disciples came to Jesus privately and
said, 'Why could we not cast it out?'  He said
to them, 'Because of your little faith.  For
truly I tell you, if you have faith the size
of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain,
"Move from here to there," and it will move; and
nothing will be impossible for you.'" \
Matthew 17:14-21

I have known people who have actually lost their
faith in God through these verses.  They too,
have knelt in prayer while asking Jesus for
mercy and healing.  They have diligently
prepared themselves to receive a miracle.  They
have worked to have the faith of a mustard seed.
They think, if they believe enough, God will heal
them, for nothing is impossible for the faith-
filled.  Then upon awakening in the morning,
they are still sick and unhealed.  They become
bitter at God and disillusioned with the promises
of Christ.

So what is this all about?  What did it mean at
the time of this miracle and what does this story
mean for us today?  How do we understand and apply
something of value to our daily lives?

We often overlook what has just happened.  James,
John, and Peter just had a mountaintop experience
with Jesus.  Jesus had specifically chosen these
three over the others.  We do not know why only
three were chosen and the others left behind with
the impatient crowd.

The disciples who were left behind were doing the
best they could while Jesus was gone.  They tried
to share what Jesus had given them to the crowd.
The desperate father wanted his child healed.
Perhaps he did not have faith that the disciples
could heal without Jesus being present.  Perhaps
the disgruntled disciples who had been left behind
did not have faith either.  The crowd wanted Jesus,
not the disciples.  Jesus was the famed and trusted
miracle worker from God.

After Jesus heals the child with a word, the
disciples approach Jesus privately and demand
answers for their lack of power.  And Jesus tells
them the truth.  Their faith was too small.  Their
faith was smaller than even a mustard seed, the
smallest known seed.  Without Jesus, they could
do nothing.  With deeper faith, they could move
mountains.

I believe in miracles.  Yet I do not have a gift
for healing epileptic children.  Is my faith too
little?  Sometimes it is.  I forget God is big
and generous.  I forget the other miracles in
daily life.  I forget that there is no such thing
as a little prayer.  I forget about previously
answered prayers for healing that are too
numerous to count.

But God cannot be manipulated.  God's timing may
not be ours.  And sometimes we do not have the
eyes of faith to see the true spiritual healing
we are given.

God, give us this mustard seed faith.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of August 2, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Praise as our response

"And Jesus went on from there and passed along
the Sea of Galilee.  And he went up on the
mountain, and sat down there.  And great crowds
came to him, bringing with them the lame, the
maimed, the blind, the dumb, and many others,
and they put them at his feet, and he healed
them, so that the throng wondered, when they
saw the dumb speaking, the maimed whole, the
lame walking, and the blind seeing; and they
glorified the God of Israel."
Matthew 15:29-31

Praise should be part of our response to God's
mercy and intervention in our lives.  God's
gifts are often overlooked.  Our humanness
cries out with our neediness.  We frequently
forget to thank and praise God for our healing
and the daily miracles of life.  Praise is
something we need to learn again and again.
Praise is good for our souls and is a healthy
part of gratitude.

Once again crowds of hurting, sick, despairing
people came to Jesus with their sick, lame,
maimed, blind, and suffering friends and family
members.  They placed them at Jesus' feet and
he cured them.  The amazed crowd praised God
for the astonishing miracles they so dramatically
saw, heard, and experienced.

We may not have such dramatic experiences, but
praising God is good for us.  God delights in
our praise.  Our highest calling is found
through praising and blessing God.  This is
why we are created.  Worship is our highest
calling.

What is praise?  Awe, adoration, love, and
reverence come to mind.  Sometimes we need
to learn the language of praise that the
Psalms teach us.  Psalms 145 through 150 can
help us.

Praise the Lord with singing.
Remember God's remarkable deeds.
Lift up God's name in honor and love.
Praise God through music.
Praise God through nature.
Sing new songs to God while in community and
while alone.
Praise God in the sanctuary.
Be glad in God with dancing.
Praise the Lord.
Alleluia.  Amen.

God, we praise your holy name.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of July 26, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Who is Jesus?

"When the disciples had crossed over, they came to
land at Gennesaret.  After the people of that place
recognized Jesus, they sent word throughout the
region and brought all who were sick to him, and
begged him that they might touch even the fringe
of his cloak; and all who touched it were healed."
Matthew 14:34-36

People brought their sick friends and family
members to Jesus.  They stopped their daily
routines and rushed to him.  Many desperate
ones begged just to touch the edge of his cloak
for healing.  All who touched him were healed.
Once again we see the fame of the Miracle
Healer.

A cherished practice of scripture reading is
to imagine ourselves in the Gospel stories.
Be present in the crowd.  Perhaps you are sick
and needing a touch from Jesus.  Or perhaps
someone you love is gravely ill.  If only you
could bring your loved one close enough to
touch the Healer!  Write down your thoughts
and feelings describing the scene.  Imagine
Jesus saying something healing to you.  What
is it like being with the Healer?  Let this
be part of your prayer.

God, let us touch Jesus and be healed in our
spirits today.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of July 19, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

New and old treasures

Jesus asked, "'Have you understood all this?'  They
said to him, 'Yes.'  And he said to them, 'Therefore
every scribe who has been trained for the kingdom of
heaven is like a householder who brings out of his
treasure what is new and what is old.'"
Matthew 13:51-52

One commentary suggests these verses specifically
referred to the Jewish teachers of the law during
the time of Jesus.  The teachers had been trained
in the ancient Hebrew scriptures.  With the kingdom
of heaven teachings of Jesus, they had now been
given new treasure.  Perhaps that is correct.  Yet
I think there is also something for us in the twenty-
first century.  This is a teaching for all who chose
to follow Jesus.

"To acquire knowledge, one must study."  The Gospels
are worth our time and effort to study.  They bring
us spiritual treasure.  So I offer this insight.
Accept it if you can.  As we read about the kingdom
of heaven through the Gospels, we are blessed with
new spiritual wealth.  Each of us can informally
teach others in different areas of our lives.  As
we live, work, converse, share ideas and insights,
these wonderful words of life in the Gospels can
bring relevance to our world.

Listed in the Guinness Book of World Records Hall
of Fame under "Highest IQ," popular columnist of
Parade Magazine and noted host of the weekly "Ask
Marilyn" segment for CBS television evening news
in New York, Marilyn Vos Savant offers this profound
insight for us, "[T]o acquire wisdom, one must
observe" (found on http://quotationspage.com/subjects/wisdom/
quoting from http://askmarilyn.com).  If you desire
wisdom, observe the life of Christ in addition to
studying his words.  Jesus walked his talk.  He
led by example.  Jesus never asked his followers
to do what he himself was unwilling to do.

Knowledge and wisdom can be ours.  All of us are
offered spiritual treasures through reading the
Gospels.

God, fill our storehouses with your treasures.
Help us generously share our spiritual wealth
with others.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of July 12, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Weeds

"Another parable Jesus put before them, saying,
'The kingdom of heaven may be compared to a man
who sowed good seed in his field; but while men
were sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds
among the wheat, and went away.  So when the
plants came up and bore grain, then the weeds
appeared also.  And the servants of the house-
holder came and said to him, "Sir, did you not
sow good seed in your field?  How then has it
weeds?"  He said to them, "An enemy has done
this."  The servants said to him, "Then do you
want us to go and gather them?"  But he said,
"No; lest in gathering the weeds you root up
the wheat along with them.  Let both grow
together until the harvest; and at harvest time
I will tell the reapers, Gather the weeds first
and bind them in bundles to be burned, but gather
the wheat into my barn."'"
Matthew 13:24-30

The parable reminds us that God is in control
and knows the tactics of the evil enemy very
well indeed.  God is an eternal strategist,
patiently giving people an opportunity to
respond to the Gospel and turn from evil
before the day of reckoning, a spiritual
harvesting.  People of faith understand there
will someday be a judgment day.  Followers of
Christ need not fear.

Imagine it is your job to harvest this field of
weeds and grain.  Even with the sage advice of
the householder we realize the kingdom of heaven
is touched by enemies armed with the intent to
harm, destroy, and sabotage the work of God in
the world.  Like the householder, we are in a
struggle of good versus evil.  Evil may begin in
subtle ways, extending its tentacles of influence
before we notice.  Those who work for God are
sometimes at a loss for knowing how to respond
to the malicious deeds of sin and destruction,
but this particular householder did not forget
to have faith or about how to care for his crop.

What does this story mean in our lives today?
How are we living the kingdom of heaven on
earth?  Are we identifying evil and drawing
on wise, God-focused advice to extinguish it?
Are we making the world a better place by how
we live?  Write your thoughts and prayers in
a journal.  Ask God for insight and new
direction.

The next six parables specifically illuminate
spiritual truths about the kingdom of heaven,
a new direction for all the faithful  straight
or gay, Christian or not.  The parables bring
us into the heartbeat and soul of the message
of Jesus and help us understand God's strategy
and God's love.  Each of the parables begins
with this simple phrase, "The kingdom of heaven
is like. . . ."  If you have ever wondered what
heaven was like or what heaven on earth could
look like, read on through the next reflections.
These six parables are simple enough for a child,
yet profound enough to offer adults a lifetime of
insights.

God, open our hearts to respond to you.  Bring
us into a fuller understanding of how we should
be living your kingdom of heaven on earth today.
Bless us as we work for good and fight evil in
our world.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of July 5, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Greater than Solomon!

"Then some of the scribes and Pharisees said to him,
'Teacher, we wish to see a sign from you.'  But he
answered them, 'An evil and adulterous generation
asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it
except the sign of the prophet Jonah.  For just as
Jonah was for three days and three nights in the
belly of the sea monster, so for three days and
three nights the Son of Man will be in the heart
of the earth.  The people of Nineveh will rise up
at the judgement with this generation and condemn
it, because they repented at the proclamation of
Jonah, and see, something greater than Jonah is
here!  The queen of the South will rise up at the
judgement with this generation and condemn it,
because she came from the ends of the earth to
listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and see,
something greater than Solomon is here!  When
the unclean spirit has gone out of a person,
it wanders through waterless regions looking
for a resting-place, but it finds none.   Then
it says, "I will return to my house from which
I came."  When it comes, it finds it empty,
swept, and put in order.  Then it goes and
brings along seven other spirits more evil
than itself, and they enter and live there;
and the last state of that person is worse
than the first.  So will it be also with this
evil generation.'"
Matthew 12:38-45

Who among us has not asked God for signs and
answers to our prayers and spiritual quests
for meaning?  The answer Jesus gave two
thousand years ago continues to be relevant
today.  He refers us to the Hebrew scriptures
in the stories of Jonah, Solomon, and the Queen
of the Sheba.

Jonah is a profound story of one man's rebellion
and ethnic prejudice in the face of God's compassion
and willingness to forgive an evil people (from
Nineveh).  Children are often told the story of
how Jonah was swallowed up by a great fish.  He
was held captive in the belly of the fish for
three days and nights.  Even when he was released
from the fish to do what God commanded him to do,
he was a reluctant prophet who detested the people
to whom he was sent.  The people of Nineveh listened
to Jonah's message, repented of their sins, and
found life.  Jesus used this story to indirectly
refer to his future death and burial for three days
in the tomb.  This would be his sign to the religious
leaders; he would rise from the dead after three days
in the grave.

The Queen of Sheba was a wise queen who traveled a
great distance to learn even more wisdom from King
Solomon (1 Kings 10:1-13; 2 Chronicles 9:1-12).  She
was willing to go to the ends of the earth to find
truth and life-sustaining knowledge to bring back
to her people.

The Pharisees had asked for a miraculous sign.
Jesus offered them, and offers us, the Easter
miracle.  Death is conquered through the empty
tomb.

Oh God, these old stories bring us exciting new
perspectives.  Help us learn from the mistakes
and prejudices of Jonah.  Encourage our pursuit
of wisdom and excellence through the Queen of
Sheba's example.  Empower us with the wisdom of
Solomon.  All three point us to Christ.  Through
Jesus Christ, teach us resurrection hope.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of June 28, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

For the weary and burdened

Jesus said, "Come to me, all you that are weary
and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give
you rest.  Take my yoke upon you, and learn from
me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you
will find rest for your souls.  For my yoke is
easy, and my burden is light."
Matthew 11:28-30

Have you ever been exhausted?  Burdened with many
worries and anxieties?  Stressed with inner turmoil
and conflict?  When was the last time you really
rested and just breathed with God?  When was the
last time your soul felt full of rest?

Come to this soul teacher.  Jesus' lessons are
instantly available and free to every student.
His yoke is easy and burden is light.  This
Teacher is gentle and humble in heart.  He is
available to all and offers profound rest for
our souls.  We can lay our burdens on him.  He
cares for us.  Jesus is fully trustworthy.  His
very presence offers us spiritual hospitality
and generosity.  He offers us inner sanctuary.

Rest is good for our souls.  Never underestimate
the power of a nap.  I have lived and worked with
people who sometimes had to work more than twenty-
four hours at a time.  Some would be too exhausted
to eat at the end of their shift.  All they wanted
to do was sleep.  Sleep can produce miraculous
restoration of perspective, strength, humor,
courage, and endurance.  Rest is a precious gift
from God.  For those who are sick and in pain,
sleep can mean blessed relief from suffering.
Rest rejuvenates.  Exhaustion debilitates.

Rest brings us into wholeness and healing.
Sometimes we just need to rest with God.
Jesus invites us to rest in his presence
through these gracious words of comfort and
help. Yes, God, I need this soul rest today.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of June 21, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

A spiritual revolution

Jesus said, "So every one who acknowledges me before
people, I also will acknowledge before my Father who
is in heaven; but whoever denies me before people, I
also will deny before my Father who is in heaven.  Do
not think that I have come to bring peace on earth; I
have not come to bring peace, but a sword.  For I have
come to set a man against his father, and a daughter
against her mother, and a daughter-in-law against her
mother-in-law; and a person's foes will be those of
that one's own household."
Matthew 10:32-36

Jesus emphatically refuses to sugarcoat his gospel
message with easy promises of peace, prosperity,
and popularity.  Throughout history, some have
experienced mockery, criticism, and even hostility
in their efforts to live out his radical wisdom.
Blessed are the peacemakers (Matthew 5:9), but
realistically there are occasions when our attempts
might be met with varying degrees of scorn, conflict,
and in extreme cases, virulent verbal abuse and
life-threatening physical violence.  If this is
your experience, take courage and trust God to
give you strength for the day.

One of the most powerful and influential books I
have ever read is "Behold the Beauty of the LORD,"
written by the late Henri Nouwen.  He writes about
four beloved Russian Orthodox icons.  One of the
icons is a partially damaged face of Christ that
war, violence, destruction, hatred, and despair
could not remove from the world.  The famous 15th
Century icon is known as "Christ, the Peacemaker."

Christians and non-Christians alike quickly discover
this holy face brings a spiritual revolution into
every receptive heart.  Also known as "The Savior,"
this dramatic image is located in the State Tretyakov
Gallery in Moscow, Russia.

Sometimes Jesus is difficult to understand.  He
is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6).  His name is
elevated above all others (Philippians 2:9).  He
is the Sent One from God (Luke 2:14) who brings
true peace on earth.  His divine peace is inexplicably
and mysteriously not of this world (John 14:27).
This inner peace with God is freely and abundantly
available to all seekers through personal faith in
Jesus Christ.

Jesus also calls us into spiritual warfare.  We
are part of a spiritual revolution in a world that
aggressively tries to remove His face in many places
through violence and injustice.  We are to joyfully
identify with Christ in word and deed, even when
his message it met with opposition.  Truly, God's
thoughts are not our thoughts and God's ways are
not our ways (Isaiah 55:8).  Take comfort  Christ
is always with you.

God, help us publicly identify with Christ the
Peacemaker.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
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Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of June 14, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Called by name

"Then Jesus summoned his twelve disciples and gave
them authority over unclean spirits, to cast them
out, and to cure every disease and every sickness.
These are the names of the twelve apostles: first,
Simon, also known as Peter, and his brother Andrew;
James son of Zebedee, and his brother John; Philip
and Bartholomew; Thomas and Matthew the tax-collector;
James son of Alphaeus, and Thaddaeus; Simon the
Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot, the one who betrayed
him."
Matthew 10:1-4

There is great power and significance in naming.
Scripture recognizes how important names are.  Names
affirm people as significant.  We are more than a
social security number, zip code, credit card number.
Names are personal, insightful, prophetic, and
revealing.  Our names are often carefully chosen
before birth by eager parents.  These names
frequently reflect their hopes and dreams for us.

Some dear friends are expecting their first child.
They have struggled mightily to find the perfect
name.  Because of ultrasound technology, they know
their baby's gender in advance and have chosen to
name him Matthew, meaning "God's gift."

People have often asked why I initially wrote
Internet reflections under the pen name "Surprised
by Joy" over the years.  God blessed me with the
pen name "Surprised by Joy" in 1997.  It had been
an extended time of crisis, major transition, deep
grief, loss, and upheaval for me.  When asked to
write anonymous reflections for a church under a
pen name, I struggled to find a name that accurately
described my spiritual pilgrimage from darkness into
light.  I signed that first reflection, "Surprised
by Joy."  As the years passed by, I missed being
known by my real name.

All this to say, I am deeply moved by these simple
verses where Jesus names his inner circle of
disciples.  He speaks their names and knows them
intimately.  Even the future betrayer is named.

Jesus knows our names.  He knows us better than we
know ourselves.  I rejoice in being known personally
by God.  The Psalmist puts it this way, "O LORD, you
have searched me and you know me" (Psalm 139:1 NIV).
God knows us by name.  Amazing.

God, thank you for knowing our names.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of June 7, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation.  we hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

Spiritual paralysis

"And after getting into a boat Jesus crossed the
water and came to his own town.  And just then
some people were carrying a paralysed man lying
on a bed.  When Jesus saw their faith, he said
to the paralytic, 'Take heart, son; your sins
are forgiven.'"
Matthew 9:1-2

I suspect the man's paralysis is a spiritual
metaphor for all of us.  Everyone has missed
the mark (sinned) somewhere in life.  Probably
we have felt frozen with guilt and remorse,
anger and frustration, regret and other feelings.
Perhaps we have become spiritually paralyzed
through sins of omission and those sins
intentionally committed.  All of us have
sinned.  Only Jesus is the sinless one.
Only God is perfect.

Another powerful story of Jesus the Healer,
recorded in Matthew 9:1-8, Mark 2:3-12, and
Luke 5:18-26, is a story about spiritual
paralysis, faith, sin, forgiveness, and hope.
This liberating tale can transform our
perspectives and our lives.

In today's story, these remarkable friends
earnestly believed Jesus would heal their
companion.  They awkwardly carried him to
the Healer.  When Jesus saw their faith, he
said to the paralytic, "Be encouraged, child,
your sins are forgiven."  The religious leaders
of the day were outraged.  Only God could
forgive sins.  According to Orthodox Jewish
law, Jesus was blaspheming.  This offense
was worthy of death.

We see yet another new picture of Jesus.
Nature obeys him, but he can also read our
human thoughts and hearts.  He reads the
minds of the critical teachers of the law.
He confronts them with spiritual questions.
Then he proves his authority to forgive sins
through healing the paralytic and tells him
to get up, pick up his mat, and go home.
The paralytic springs to his feet, a new man
in Christ!  And the crowds marvel in awe.
They praised God who had given such
astonishing authority to Jesus.

Where are we in this story?  Are we the
paralyzed, the faith-filled friends, the
astonished crowd, or the disciples?  Or
are we so deeply religious that we cannot
see the power of Christ with fresh eyes?
Where have we missed the mark in our lives
and experienced spiritual paralysis?

God, show us where we are spiritually
paralyzed and heal us.  Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

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CHI RHO CONNECTION

The eNewsletter of Chi Rho Press,
Your LGBT Christian Publishing House
Vol. X, No. 1
31 May 2009

*************************

Contents:

1.      Sterling Silver Pendants
2.      Special for Churches
2.      Adam's Last Word

Welcome once again to the Chi Rho Connection, the
electronic newsletter of Chi Rho Press.  Thank you
for passing this Chi Rho Connection on to others.

To join our list, send an e-mail message to
mailto:ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com.

To remove yourself from this list send an e-mail to
mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.

Please visit our Web site at http://www.chirhopress.com
to see our entire lines of books, handouts, videos,
tapes, tchochkas, and stained glass.

Direct all other e-mail to Adam@....

--------------------------------------------------

1.      Sterling Silver Pendants

Chi Rho Press, your MCC LGBT Christian publishing
house, again carries Solid Sterling Silver MCC
crosses and logos!  Our silversmith had a serious
problem while beginning to use a new silver caster.
Delays in refilling our stock of MCC Chi Rho crosses
and the newer MCC logo ensued.  Fortunately, those
problems have been resolved and we took delivery on
the first part of our order this weekend!

A Gay jewelry artist has cast the traditional MCC
Chi Rho cross and the newer MCC logo in Solid
Sterling Silver for Chi Rho Press.

The traditional MCC Cross with the overlapped Greek
letters Chi and Rho in the center (a traditional
monogram for Christ, being the first letters in
the Greek word Christos) and the Greek letters
Alpha and Omega on the cross bar (the first and
last letters in the Greek alphabet, signifying
the Jesus is the  Alpha and the Omega, the
beginning and the end).  On the reverse of the
cross is the dove of the Holy Spirit.  The Solid
Sterling Silver crosses are 13/16 inches wide and
1 inch tall, and sell for $19.95 each, plus shipping
and handling.  Six or more are $14.95 each, plus
shipping and handling.

The new MCC logo on a round pendant with the flame
of the Holy Spirit intersecting the stylized globe.
The Solid Sterling Silver MCC logos are 7/8 inch in
diameter, and sell for $24.95 each, plus shipping
and handling. Six or more are $18.95 each, plus
shipping and handling.

Please see and order your MCC Crosses or MCC Logos
at this link:
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/silver_jewelry.html

--------------------------------------------------

2.      Special for Churches

Here's a way for your local congregation to partner with
Chi Rho Press and to make some money as well.  Chi Rho
Press is an LGBT Christian publishing house that is part
MCC.

Chi Rho Press will give your church a donation of 10%
of sales from people who list your church in the on-line
secure Web site order form.

Let your congregation know about this special offer and
send them to the Chi Rho Press Web site,
http://www.ChiRhoPress.com.  When they place an order,
ask them to list your church name and address in the
"Special Instructions" box on the check out page.

Chi Rho Press will send 10% of the total order,
including shipping and handling, to your church.

Please advertise this in your church bulletin, newsletter,
Web site, list-serve, or other communication medium.
Spread the word and earn money for your ministries while
helping this ministry to grow.

Please let us know if you are going to participate by
writing  to Adam@....  Thank you!

--------------------------------------------------

3.      Adam's Last Word

I would love for you to send me articles about
women or men you hold to be your Heroes of the
Faith.  Just write to Adam@... with
your remembrance and let me know what you would
like me to say about you as the author.

*****

Please encourage members of your church to participate
in the special fund raising offer from Chi Rho Press.
We will make a donation of 10% of all sales from
people who mention your congregation in the "Special
Instructions and Comments" box on the check out page.
Please let your people know as soon as possible about
this opportunity to help both our ministries.

*****

Shipping and Handling Tip:  This tip will be
especially important if you are ordering one or
two Liturgical Calendars!

When you are ordering from the Chi Rho Press Web
site, be sure to tell us your preferred shipping
method.  The way the shopping cart is set up, the
shipping method defaults to United Parcel Service.
This is NOT the most economical way to ship for
orders under seven pounds.  If you want the most
inexpensive shipping (within the United States)
it is usually best to pick USPS (United States
Postal Service Domestic Parcel Post) for packages
weighing under seven pounds.  UPS (United Parcel
Service) Ground is more economical for packages
heavier than seven pounds.  The shopping cart will
tell you how much your order weighs in the box right
next to your order amount and price.  There is a link
there to change your shipping method as well.

When I order one copy of the Liturgical Calendar and
allow the default UPS Ground shipping method, the
shipping cost is almost as much as the book, $10.11!
But if I change the shipping method to USPS Parcel
Post shipping is only $6.28, and it is $6.46 for USPS
Priority Mail.

Be smart shoppers and choose your shipping options
carefully to avoid paying too much!

*****

Gracia y paz,

Brother R. Adam DeBaugh, OSL

******************************************

We are glad you are partners in ministry with us here at
Chi Rho Press. We are eager for your comments, your
suggestions, your assistance with selling our books,
and your own purchases! And of course, we covet your
prayers for this ministry.

If you've received the Chi Rho Connection as a result of
someone passing it along to you and would like to receive
it directly from us, please follow these directions:

To SUBSCRIBE send blank e-mail to:
ChiRhoPress-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
To UNSUBSCRIBE send blank e-mail to:
ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com

Please visit http://www.ChiRhoPress.com. You may
pay by credit card on our web page or we will ship
your order after receiving your check or money
order. Please always include your e-mail address,
mailing address, and telephone number.

For all e-mail correspondence, please write
Adam@....

Our snail mail address is:

Chi Rho Press, Inc.
P.O. Box 7864
Gaithersburg, MD 20898

Our telephone and fax number is 301/926-1208.

Copyright 2009, Chi Rho Press, Inc.

Chi Rho Reflection for the Week of May 31, 2009

**********

As one of the on-going ministries of Chi Rho
Press, here is a selection from our book of daily
devotions, "Living as the Beloved: One Day at a
Time," by the Rev. Dr. Sandra Bochonok.

Please read the Scripture passage and Dr. Bochonok's
meditation. We hope you will be blessed.

Thank you for forwarding this to your friends.

This amazing teacher

"Now when Jesus had finished saying these things,
the crowds were astounded at his teaching, for he
taught them as one having authority, and not as
their scribes."
Matthew 7:28-29

While teachers of the law quoted other rabbis to
support their own teaching, Jesus simply spoke
with divine authority.  The crowds were astonished
at his teachings.  Jesus is simply the greatest
spirituality teacher the world will ever know.
His words are worth pondering and offer wisdom
for our lives.  Jesus can teach us something new,
fresh, and relevant through daily gospel readings.
His words bring us peace, joy, and courage.  He
walked his talk.  His words will stand the test
of time throughout eternity.

We have now finished our meditations on his famous
Sermon of the Mount (Matthew chapters 5-7).  Read
them again and again.  Memorize words of inspiration.
When in doubt over important decisions or how to
resolve conflict, pray, spend money, reduce stress,
combat worry; Jesus' words in red can change your
life and perspective.  Jesus' words will bring you
help and comfort in your times of need.  You will
be spiritually empowered.

Jesus, amaze us with your wonderful words of life.
Amen.

Grace and peace,

Chi Rho Press

Please visit the Chi Rho Press Web site. You can order
using our convenient secure shopping cart and pay on
line using your credit card! http://www.ChiRhoPress.com

"Living as the Beloved" is available for $20.95 each,
plus shipping and handling. Six or more copies are
$15.75 each, plus shipping and handing. You can find
this book on our Web site at
http://www.chirhopress.com/products/product_details/BookRevLivingAsTheBeloved.ht\
m

To unsubscribe, mailto:ChiRhoPress-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.