Coupstick Chaplain

“Lord, you have made your bow quite ready, and called for many arrows. You have fashioned each by hand and sworn an oath over all.”(Hab. 3:9)

This site is dedicated to the memory of David Pendleton, Oka ha-tuh, Cheyenne warrior and Episcopal Deacon, and those Kiowa Koitsenko who followed “The Jesus Road.”

“Remember when I went first and you followed; I follow another now, his name is Jesus, what he says is true and he only makes war for peace!”

(Pendleton)

Commission

As a Kiowa-Na’ishan Christian Chaplain, the militancy of my future calling was declared at the time of my “second baptism” when these words were spoken over me – “The Lord has called you from your mother’s womb and made mention of your name among her people. He has made your mouth like a sharpened sword, and like a polished shaft in his quiver he has hidden you; in the shadow of his hand he has concealed you.” (Is. 49:1,2)

Mission

The Coupstick Chaplain was envisioned as a Native American Christian chaplaincy for “War Fighters” and the Warrior Community at large. Yet in saying that, I would offer that what we’re fighting is on two-fronts, both spiritual and material connotations. While defending America and “American Interests” is all well and good, I find myself questioning what those interests actually are? Not only in relationship to statecraft and power, but the application of power when it comes to the public domain. In consideration of the fact, I find it becoming less about bullets and more about water. – “Water for the People!” “The Angel showed me a river of the water of life, as pure and clear as crystal, issuing forth from the throne of God and the Lamb.” (Rev. 22:1, KJV pp.)

Although true, what is also true is the second part of the equation that follows. “He that believeth in me (and partakes of this water of life), …out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.” (Jn. 7:398, KJV) Buckets full, enough for oneself and countless others. Yet, it will be those fonts that will be carrying the water, while getting their feet wet, As John the baptizer said: I indeed baptize you with water, unto repentance, but the one who comes after me, who is much greater than me, he will baptize you with The Holy Spirit and with fire.” (Matt. 3:11) As for myself, I’m just a water-carrier, building a bucket brigade. “One, whose faith, like gold, has been tested in the fire.” (1 Peter 1:7 KJV)

As this introduction is somewhat analogous to the discussion at hand, I might ask the question. Where are the military chaplains, those fit for purpose, when you need them, outside the gate and upon reentry into the maelstrom of civilian life? I ask that, because, if as they say, the military chaplaincy is not a job description, but a calling, you would expect to find them in the thick of it, running toward the sound of gunfire. As for the others, those who have passed the line of no return, I can offer that while there remain numerous benefits for having served, there are caveats as well, many of which accrue interest over time, albeit with diminishing returns. And while it’s been said that “once a warrior, always a warrior,” talk comes cheap in the face of mission creep. As for those still in the fight, deployment without due cause and no end-game in sight would seem counterintuitive as well as counter-productive, when seen in the light of our present circumstances, when there’s an enemy around every corner.

Even the family dog knows, that if your downwind and can smell the smoke, the fire can’t be far behind. Unfortunately, policy-makers haven’t caught the drift, in turn, finding themselves in somewhat of a rift. In trying to balance the books, between that of their own self-interests and the exigencies of national defense, they find themselves in a bit of a fix; modelling exactly what scripture refers to as “the consternation of nations.” The world turns and now it burns, while our public officials, elected or not, continue to curtsy and bow to curry public favor. Diddler’s all, and desperate to delay. Not to worry they say, – call Saul! Better yet, call upon the Lord, who only then inquires. – Where are those willing to pick up “the talking stick.” and walk the talk? Consider this. No rest for the weary, as they say, as they will stand come what may. Yet, no mercenary he, but an able defender, whose word will become like legal tender. While challenges surround, the wars without remain but secondary to eternal issues not sorted out. Knowledge abounds, while wisdom remains in short supply. Dawdlers dither, while confidence withers. People crying for a resolution, when what is needed is a revolution. With the blame-game now pretty much moot, Parliament’s sure to get the boot. Yet, upon further inspection the crisis calls for a little discretion, as we pause for a bit for some personal reflection. Because, as Pogo said: “We have met the enemy and he is us!”

Along that same line, while attempting to form a working hypothesis for the lack of spiritual oversight I previously described, I came to a realization. As military service is one of the few occupations in which the common objective is achieved not simply through team effort, personal sacrifice and daring-do, but moral certitude, it might behoove those so inclined to reflect upon a higher standard. – “The “Warrior’s Ethos.” Yet not in light of the popular meme, but the footlocker of military history. And, it is from that perspective that I can see the two streams converging. One. That of our historical, egalitarian and meritocratic warrior societies, which continue to exemplify the “Kiowa martial ethos.” Two. The teachings and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth, whose life reads like something out of the Red-letter Edition of a Warrior’s Manifesto. As in reading Jesus, again, I was not only struck by his certitude, daring-do and oratorical command, which in turn is reminiscent of our medicine-people and warriors from the distant past. In saying that, it would come as no surprise if the comparison registered as well with many of our front-line military personnel as it did with me. As what’s needed today is not simply the few who are willing to jump without the least hesitation, but those leader- thinkers who are as good at building fire-breaks and bridges over troubled waters as they are about building bunkers. Quiet professionals all, they must needs be “Peaceful Warriors still”

In consideration of the fact, not to mention the exercise it provided my ever-evolving poetic and allegorical style, I feel that it has not only brought greater clarity to the page, but my calling. In turn, serving to highlight the dichotomy that continues to exist between what Jesus actually taught and what the Church today believes. That, and the ongoing issue of delight without discipline, or as Bonhoeffer described it – “cheap grace.” The primary issue being, that in promoting religion over the primary requisite of faith, the Church has become little more than a merchant vintner. Different vine, different wine! A legal distillation of another proof. No Makers Mark, no poof! The fact being, that faith cannot live in a box, anymore than the faith-filled can be confined indefinitely to a church. And, while breakouts have occurred from the very beginning, the self-righteous have always been quick to put a lid on it, knowing full-well the danger that faith presented. While in its immature state it remains but an ember, when it matures, it takes but a whiff of The Spirit’s for it to become dancing flame and little more to become the Church’s bane.

Vision

“Write the vision and make it plain, so that those who read it may run with it.” (Habakkuk 2:2)

While I have a personal affinity for Habakkuk, believing that the author’s intention is well-suited for what I see playing out in America’s today, if you can read between the lines you might then dig out the running shoes, as there will be a lot of running for those who can receive it. And as Native America has always been big on running, I believe that it holds a special significance for those who are of the land and spirit of this place we call home. Not that others can’t apply. “If the shoe fits, where it!

When talking about Indian spirituality, how many know that “types and shadows” or a reasonable facsimile thereof The Passion of Christ appeared on The Great Plains some hundred years in advance of the first missionaries. Every year around solstice…to be continued.

And as confidence abounds in the warrior crowd, we one that done us proud. Because in Jesus we were not disappointed. Not one for small talk, neither did he forswore good company, nor lifting a cup or two with friends. Yet, he led “where even angels feared to tread.” – to Jerusalem, the sepulcher of the saints, to speak truth to power, settle the score, and so pay the ultimate price. A ransom beyond measure – “in bringing many sons to glory!” (Heb. 2:10) Imagine if you will the tragedy in process. Our Captain, his only crown, of thorns, “hung on a tree” for all the world to see…despised, bloodied, broken and abandoned. Yet, the script was flipped. Worlds in collision on an order of magnitude. A vindication of conviction like no other worth mention. The resurrection of Jesus the Christ put every mouth to shame, turned the world upside down, people, inside-out and right side up. Yet, the life He lived, he lived not in vain, as the journey itself became both metaphor and refrain. A soldiers story, short and sweet; The “Warriors Ethos” and “The Way” mete.

As for those who remain unconvinced, faith can be seen as a correlate of duty and honor. As such, it is indicative of an individual type, a warrior with a “Warriors Ethos.” And so it was that those few were what the Lord Hashem-Elohim looked for when selecting Gideon’s 300, –“…choosing only those few who lapped the water with their bare hands.” (Judges 7:6) Not surprisingly, there remains more to the story that is often left untold. The Lord’s direct involvement in Israel’s preparation for war can be seen as not only a tacit approval, but an endorsement of the warrior class itself. This then is of some consequence, especially when viewed through the lens of geopolitics today. Unfortunately, while many see defense as counterintuitive when it comes to peace, current events would suggest an alternative opinion. In spite of our best intentions, war has been and continues to be recurring theme in human history. A sobering fact, especially when you considering that no amount of religious idealism or wishful thinking has ever been able to change the fact.

Coupstick Chaplain

The Coupstick Chaplain then remains non-denominational in perspective, believing that salvation from self and the evils of this world is best served through simplicity of faith and selfless service. Yet, as a chaplain, standing alongside those that serve, I not only recognize, but support other expressions of faith as well. How could I not, when my own Native people remain not only representative of a multitude of missionary Churches, but the spiritual traditions of our ancestors. And it is from that perspective that I can offer this. The vast majority of faith expressions I come across daily, have one unifying principle in common, faith in a higher power, in addition to an express need among adherents to not only validate the why and wherefore of their own existence, but that of the enteral.

It follows then that I would not only endorse The First Amendment to the US Constitution, but the “wall of separation” between “church and state as well.” In doing so, I not only acknowledge our inherent right to choose, but to affirm what the spirit of that law implies; that we have certain inalienable rights revealed to us by God. Yet in saying that, I am not without reservation, as the potential for religious extremism exists within that same right. The issue being, that when religious tolerance becomes the very vehicle through which religious intolerance is allowed to flourish, it not only negates the very principle upon which that right was founded, but serves in itself to promote spiritual or cultural exclusivity, which can lead to intolerance.

That said, our flag is now unfurled. And though I may feel at times like one whistling in the wind, I remain confident that if we to hold fast to the standard that has been raised, while at the same time, evidencing the character of Christ in both our person, actions and testimony, we will have shown ourselves worthy to be called servants of ‘The Most High God and confidants of Christ. Yet make no mistake, the battle is just beginning, and while many slumber, we stand watch from the rooftops. And although there are those who fail to equate supernatural conflict with that of the kinetic, people become unhinged or die every day for the very same reasons.

And while this blog may be seen by some as a public chaplaincy, its focus remains that of the warrior community. Not simply because they bear the burden of our mutual defense, but because they’ve been called in turn to mount the high-ground of our moral prerogatives. Yet in doing so, they often find themselves walking a fine line between the Devil and the deep-blue sea. Which in and itself is expressive of a necessary correlation. Whether in training for combat or amidst, sometimes that the only crucible in which the Warriors Ethos can be formed. And so it is that we come to a convergence between faith and good works again, which in this case applies directly to the forging of the inner person.

In retrospect, while confidentiality is a given when it comes to chaplaincy, this blog will attempt to address the deeper and often divisive issues pertaining to the warriors calling. Yet with the public serving as a backstop for our not uncommon interests, I feel I’m left with but little choice than to call things as they are. To say then that I’m duly concerned about our current unrest and the mounting challenges we face as a nation would be an understatement, as in light of America’s founding I see a noticeable drift. In consideration of the fact, we might then do well to remember our angelic tutelary – Columbia, who even now stands watch over our eastern gate. Holding high the Torch of Freedom in her right hand, in welcome to all those seeking refuge, and in her left, The Constitution, in warning to anyone whose selfish ambitions might tend toward “the pragmatic application of mechanisms and strategies designed to keep a group in power, regardless of their ideals, morals, or even their ultimate purpose.” (Lavenda, 2009).

“Walk Softly, but Carry a Big Stick!”

While the Coupstick Chaplain is emblematic of my Indigenous ancestry and pastoral orientation, the Plains Indian tradition of “Counting Coup” or “touching the enemy” as it was called, speaks volumes about warfare as being essentially spiritual in context. For that reason, it may of some interest to note that while the coupstick itself is similar in appearance to the traditional Indian lacrosse stick as used in “The Creators Game,” it connotes to the Shepard’s crook, a Christian symbol of supernatural authority and spiritual guidance. Yet traditionally, Kiowa coupstick is unique in one regard; it retains the lance-head firmly attached to its business end. And while the coupstick may speak of justice and the resolve to maintain peace through strength, or violence if need be, the very act of “counting coup” is in itself representative of mercy. And while that concept is not unfamiliar to the Christian praxis, many have lost sight of the fact. This is especially true among those who profess a belief in God, thanks be to Jesus, yet fail to follow in his footsteps; seemingly oblivious to the fact that a living faith intuits personal sacrifice. For the recalcitrant then, the Plains Indian tradition of Counting Coop may be particularly apropos, as they often some sense knocked into their heads. The fact that the spiritual warrior must needs have a role in the advent to come is no more open to debate than reclining in the castle while letting the peasants do all the heavy lifting. And while it remains a matter of choice if one chooses to be present and directly engaged in“restoring the world” (Tikkum olan), or absent, it does in fact speak volumes about one’s authenticity and ultimate destiny.

A Refuge in Time of Trouble?

Although the Americas have been referred to as Turtle Island or a place of refuge “from time immemorial,” as they say; it may soon become a crossroads of conflict “… a spiritual conflict over material matters” (Waters, 1963). For that reason, the historical image of the American Indian perhaps best represents the ongoing struggle between spirituality and materialism, the natural world and that of cultural survival. Who better then to articulate that cause than those who’ve been on the receiving end for over five-hundred years. More importantly, the fact that Native Americans have managed to remain an intrinsically spiritual people, in spite of efforts to the contrary, lends credence to my assertion that one day they will rise again. Not simply as separate peoples plotting their own divergent course, but as “one holy nation under God, walking in a sacred way,” while affirming his “First Instructions.” At the same time, I see them taking the lead in resisting a adversarial agenda which seeks to subordinate all creation to a system of godlessness, moral depravity and abject servitude.

Things being what they are then, it should come as no surprise if Creator took an altogether different tack, raising up a people who many would consider least in The Kingdom of Heaven, while placing them at the forefront of a “last days” revival. Considering the possibility, especially when viewed through the historical lens of Native America, it leaves little to the imagination, as Sitting Bull said: “He created us all according to his own purposes and called it good. Therefore, it is not right for us as eagles, to now become crows.”

Although Native Americans have been characterized as second-class citizens, or even squatters on their ancestral lands, they’ve somehow managed to maintain their dignity along with their spiritual orientation. Their resilience then has not gone unnoticed, particularly among those now poised to suffer a similar fate. As there are many within the so-called herd that are neither buffaloed nor cowed and who now see resistance as the only alternative to a future prospect of beef rations and filthy blankets. For them, “going off the Rez.” has taken on new meaning, as reflecting upon their own situation they’ve come to realize what Indian’s have known all along – we’re in a fight for our lives against a supernatural enemy, one who not only seeks dominion over the entire earth, but the heavens above, including the spirits of the entire creation. And, even as Russell Means said, “We’re all Indians now!”

The Blog

Drawing from my various interests, including history, geopolitics, religion and war, political theology provides a viable platform for addressing the increasing dissonance that exists between self-interest and self-sacrifice in the corporate-political sphere. And while it’s understandable from a democratic point of view, that politics remain necessarily separate from religion, it is the moral and ethical composition of religious philosophy that provides the objectivity so often lacking in political discourse. And by framing that discourse from an Indigenous perspective, an alternative vision can be offered, one which not only builds upon a biblical hermeneutics uniquely adapted to the Americas, but one which serves to address the dystopian future we now see emerging.

Support

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Quill