Wednesday, December 31, 2008

Surprised!

Today’s Reading: John 18:32(NIV)

32 This happened so that the words of Jesus had spoken indicating the kind of death he was going to die would be fulfilled.

Matthew 20:17-19(NIV)

17 Now as Jesus was going up to Jerusalem, He took the twelve disciples aside and said to them, 18 “We are going up to Jerusalem, and the Son of Man will be betrayed to the chief priests and the teachers of the law. They will condemn Him to death 19 and will turn Him over to the Gentiles to be mocked and flogged and crucified. On the third day He will be raised to life!”

Good morning!

By now, the disciples should not have been surprised by the events of this day. After all, Jesus had told them what would happen long before they reached the city’s gates. We human types have a tendency to try to ignore the things that we do not wish to hear or accept. We pretend it isn’t true, and in our pretending somehow believe we have control to alter the course of mankind. Yet, deep down inside, we know that God’s Word will one day be fulfilled. Why is it hard to accept?

Isn’t it ironic how the people who lauded Jesus in a ticker-tape parade into the city gates of Jerusalem just five days ago are now posturing for his conviction and execution? People tend to listen to the most popular thoughts of the moment, and jump on that bandwagon, without fully seeing the bigger picture. There is no better example of this than in a political campaign. Popular and favored candidates, hopefully with lots of financial resources and backing, place their names on a party ticket and public ballot. Depending upon their political platform and charisma, the people determine who will rise to the top of the popular vote. This candidate may or may not be the best choice for election or re-election; yet, public opinion can and will swing the pendulum based upon the moment. One can only hope and pray that the elected will live up to the many hopes and aspirations of those who voted them into office. If they don’t succeed according to the public opinion, they can expect to be crucified in the next election year. And the unbridled truth is this: when one election ends, another campaign begins.

The people were campaigning for the Savior’s death. It had been foretold 585 years earlier, just after the walls of the temple had been rebuilt in Jerusalem. It was predicted even before crucifixion had been invented or implemented as a means of execution. The Messiah would come to die to save the world from itself. He would become the perfect sacrificial lamb, a sin offering for the whole of humanity. Why were the people so surprised when they saw the prophecy fulfilled before their very eyes? Why does this fulfillment of prophecy surprise us today?

May the Lord Jesus Christ be surprisingly real to you today as we celebrate the dawning of a brand new year.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Risky business

Today’s Reading: John 18:31(NIV)

31 Pilate said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” “But we have no right to execute anyone,” the Jews objected.

Good morning!

Pilate was in a sticky situation, and he knew it. Deep down inside, Pilate did not believe that Jesus was guilty of any crime that would certainly warrant his death. He may have even wondered whether it was possible that this man was truly the Son of God. He wanted nothing to do his sentencing and he tried to find several ways out.

One day, each and every one of us will have to deal with Jesus. We’re going to have to decide for ourselves who He is and what we will do with him. Place yourself in Pilate’s shoes for just a moment, and try to think like a Roman politician.

Jesus was obviously a pawn held captive within a political power play. Pilate had listened to the constant ridicule of Christ from the religious leaders in Jerusalem. He knew they wanted this man executed. And it was common to execute non-Roman citizens by crucifixion. Still, Pilate wanted some sort of concrete evidence before he sentenced a man to death. He tried to find some wiggle room to get out of making this final decision. Pilate tried to place judgment back in the hands of the Jews. He said, “Take him yourselves and judge him by your own law.” No wonder the Jews pushed Pilate for a judgment. The law would not allow the Jews to execute Christ.

What would you do if you were Pilate? How could you have kept Christ alive while keeping peace with the crowd? Could you have rendered a verdict contrary to the thoughts and opinions of your political peers, knowing they would probably turn on you if you crossed them? Would you choose to risk your own life, your family’s safety, and even your political future, to save an innocent man from being murdered? Jesus was no ordinary man, and Pilate knew it. This one decision would impact the rest of his life.

When we decide who Jesus is, and whether to accept or reject Him as Lord of all, that choice will affect every aspect of our lives; today, tomorrow and forever more. What will you choose to do with Jesus? Who is He to you?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Monday, December 29, 2008

Impromptu wedding

Today’s Reading: I Corinthians 13:4-5(NIV)

4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.

Good morning!

They stood on the parsonage steps together, knocking on the front door. It was mid-afternoon on Thursday, November 30, 1944. Clayton and Doris stood with their marriage license in hand, hoping the pastor was home. In a simple ceremony conducted at the parson’s house, they exchanged wedding vows and made a lifelong commitment to each other. Doris told me that during the wedding ceremony, the children arrived home from school and she remembered how they came running through the house, totally unaware of what was happening in their own living room. Meeting only a few months ago, this was their impromptu wedding, a tender moment shared by two people totally in love and committed to one another.

I’ve often wondered about the wedding story as told by my mother and father-in-law. For them, this ceremony was personal, and they wanted to keep it between themselves. Of course, there was a war going on at the time, and planning for and holding a wedding ceremony on an appointed date and time was risky business, at best. Their simple ceremony has stood the test of time, as they recently celebrated their sixty-fourth anniversary.

I’ve lived in a church parsonage now for thirty-one years. I had not personally experienced an impromptu wedding until this past weekend. Of all the ceremonies I’ve attended, this wedding will stay in my heart forever. Their wedding date had been selected; and the bride and groom were trying to move into a home they’ve rented, while finishing last minute details for the celebration. The party, the people, and the planning became some sort of untamable beast for them, and the bride suddenly realized this was much more than what she and her fiancĂ© had ever wanted. Overwhelmed by it all, she felt they had somehow lost sight of the reason why they were getting married in the first place. The parsonage phone rang during a nasty afternoon thunderstorm. We met the couple at church that evening. The bride and groom’s parents were there to witness this simple ceremony. They said their vows at the foot of the cross, in the twinkling lights on the Christmas tree. The wind whipped around the eaves of the sanctuary as the thunderstorm continued to pound the roof. Two hearts made their lifelong commitment to one another. Most mothers would never dream of allowing their children to marry without having some sort of celebratory party; yet, I will cherish this precious memory in my heart for the rest of my life.

I think that sometimes we lose sight of what love really is. In our revelry, we tend to forget the meaning behind the moment. Take Christmas, for instance. It is the celebration of Christ’s birth; yet, we have commercialized it so with our own holiday traditions, parties, and presents. We’ve placed lots of hopes and expectations of what the day should actually be, and often, we miss the reason for the season.

Love came to earth, born in a stable bare, on a cold and windy night, to a world unaware. Christ came for one purpose and one purpose alone: to save us from our sin; to free us from living our days in total separation from the One who formed us with His own hand. Where is love? You will find Him waiting for you at the foot of the cross.


Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Christmas Pardon

Today’s Reading: John 18:29-30(NIV)

29 So Pilate came out to them and asked, “What charges are you bringing against this man?” 30 “If He were not a criminal,” they replied, “we would not have handed Him over to you.”

Isaiah 53:5(NIV)

5 But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.

Good morning!

Every year at Christmas, the President of the United States issues a Presidential Pardon to one or more people who are incarcerated for the crimes they committed. I imagine this is a difficult decision, given the numbers he must work with. The US has the highest documented incarceration rate around the world. In December of 2007, a record 7.2 million people were either spending time behind bars, or were on probation and parole. Of that total, 2.3 million were actually spending time in prison at Christmas.

While our society has evolved scientifically, economically and socially in the last twenty plus generations, our bent to sinning has continued to increase. What seems to be a time-honored tradition, we willingly choose to break the law rather than to obey it. Take five minutes and think about the last twenty-four hours of your life. Did you commit any notable crimes for which you should have been punished? Did you drive over the speed limit on the highway as you traveled to visit family for the holidays? Did you lie to a neighbor? Did you make time to come and worship the Lord or were you too busy with your holiday schedule? Are you harboring unforgiveness in your heart toward someone who has hurt you?

Pilate was trying his best to weigh the evidence in the charges railed against Jesus Christ. He did not believe this man had committed any crime. When asking his accusers for specifics, the people said if He was not a criminal, they would not have brought him for judgment. What crimes did Jesus actually commit?

A baby is born in a town with no room for Him. The mother gives birth in a dirty, stinky cave, where the only warmth is that of the animals surrounding her. Joseph delivers the boy in the dark, with only the light of a bright star to guide him. How was this child welcomed into the world? His parents had to take him and flee the country just to protect him from losing his life by an edict of Herod. What laws had this boy child broken to deserve an untimely death?

Jesus came to pardon us from selfish sin. He became the Christmas pardon for you and me. Are you imprisoned today by the sins that continually eat away your life? Are you struggling to find freedom from the chains that keep you bound? Jesus has pardoned you; He has given this gift, free to anyone who will receive Him today as their Lord and Savior. Christ bore your sins on the cross; He bled and died to set you free forever!

I pray that you will accept Christ’s Christmas pardon today. His gift of grace is the best present you will ever receive. Merry Christmas!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Wednesday, December 24, 2008

The Lord of the Impossible

Today’s Reading: John 18:28(NIV)

28 Then the Jews led Jesus from Caiaphas to the palace of the Roman governor. By now it was early morning, and to avoid ceremonial uncleanness the Jews did not enter the palace; they wanted to be able to eat the Passover.

Matthew 1:21 (NIV)

21 She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because He will save his people from their sins.

Good morning!

Have you ever chosen to do the wrong thing for all the right reasons? Sometimes, what makes perfect sense in the moment is something we come to regret as time goes by. Take Joseph, for instance. He was betrothed to Mary, a virgin from Nazareth, who was found to be with child prior to the consummation of their marriage. He loved her and did not want to see Mary lose her life as a result of her pregnancy. She said she had conceived by the Holy Spirit of God. How he wanted to believe the impossible; nevertheless, Joseph chose to divorce her quietly, to avoid her public disgrace and untimely death. He made the wrong choice for all the right reasons; thank God for intervening angels!

On the morning of Jesus’ trial in Jerusalem, the Jews in attendance were more concerned about observing the law, refusing to enter the temple for fear of defiling themselves before the celebration of the Passover Lamb. Could they not see that the Lamb of God was being sacrificed right before their very eyes? A new Passover is coming today, and this One sacrifice will change the heart of humanity for all time. What seems to be a total impossibility is happening because the Great I Am is the Lord of the impossible. Jesus Christ is our Emmanuel; God with us.

The angel told Joseph that Mary would give birth to a son, and that He is to name Him Jesus, because He will save His people from their sins. That morning, Jesus is fulfilling the angels’ promise. He is our Lord of the impossible.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

Broken glass

Today’s Reading: John 18:26-27(NIV)

26 One of the high priest’s servants, a relative of the man whose ear Peter had cut off, challenged him, “Didn’t I see you with him in the olive grove?” 27 Again Peter denied it, and at that moment a rooster began to crow.

Good morning!

It is hard to see the Savior through shards of broken glass.

When my parents married in 1945, the war was finally coming to an end. Its devastation had cut the world to the quick. People in the United States were longing for peace, even in the midst of great chaos. Rations were still in effect, and it was a challenge to set up housekeeping with virtually no household goods available for purchase. My folks shared living quarters with some family friends in South Saint Louis, while my father looked for work and a place to live. They learned of a small flat coming available, to a couple whose marriage had shattered during the war. They sold everything they owned to my folks. Daddy and mother were fortunate enough to inherit their apartment along with all its contents. Items that were not yet available for purchase became theirs. They inherited a warm bed to sleep on with clean sheets and blankets, a fully-furnished kitchen with pots, pans, dishes and eating utensils, a small sofa, and even a box of tiny glass Christmas ornaments tucked away in a small hope chest. My mother said the ornaments were beautiful antiques, remnants of days gone by. Daddy chopped a small fir tree down at the family farm, and hauled it into the city. In the apartment, Mother hung the delicate glass ornaments on the tree. She wrapped its branches in freshly popped strings of popcorn and brightly colored cranberries, placing a shiny metal star on top. She held fast to hope, even in a hopeless situation.

Holding onto hope is hard when people are starving in the streets. It was a cold, dark winter, and joy was in short supply. People were struggling to survive, to hold onto the things that mattered most in life. Mother wept uncontrollably when she heard a glass ornament hit the floor. Tiny fragments of glass shattered everywhere, leaving its mark on the hard wood. She thought about the family whose marriage had failed, and for all families who were separated during the war. She knew just how fortunate she was, yet worried about the ones suffering around her. She longed for the light of the world to light up the dark spaces on Saint Louis city streets, to restore great joy to the joyless, and find the One eternal hope even in the midst of great poverty. As she swept up the tiny fragments of glass, Mother saw the reflection of her Savior’s love emerging from the shards of broken glass.

Peter stood, fearful and trembling, in the garden. The Savior of the world was being beaten and abused; he heard the cries of the soldiers and knew His friend was suffering. Peter was terrified, wondering whether he might be taken captive too. When asked if he knew the Lord, Peter’s reply hit the ground like tiny shards of broken glass. As the rooster began to crow, Peter remembered Jesus’ words, and was ashamed that he had denied knowing His Lord not once, but three times.

We can find Christ’s grace and forgiveness in the midst of broken glass. This Christmas, there are many who suffer; they do not have adequate shelter, food to eat, or a warm place to stay. How can we convey hope to a hopeless world? Can you see the Savior’s love shining through a broken heart?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Monday, December 22, 2008

Family photographs

Today’s Reading: John 18:25(NIV)

25 As Simon Peter stood warming himself, he was asked, “You are not one of his disciples, are you?” He denied it, saying, “I am not.”

Good morning!

One of my favorite Christmas traditions is the giving and receiving of greeting cards. I enjoy reading family newsletters, and catching up with the people I know and love each year. I especially enjoy seeing family photographs. Jeff and I will sit on the sofa together near the fireplace, and look at the cards together. I’ll say, “Jeff! Look at this picture! Oh my, how the children have grown - it hasn’t been that long since we’ve seen them, has it? Do you remember baptizing this little boy? How he looks just like his Father! There’s no denying who this child belongs to!

We had the privilege of reconnecting with a child that Jeff had baptized nineteen years ago at the Lindenwood coffeehouse this fall. When Lindsey was three years old, her parents moved from Missouri to New York and it was there that she grew up. We were surprised when we realized that Lindsey, now a sophomore in college, was the baby girl Jeff held in his arms on her baptism day. She has changed a lot in the last nineteen years! Lindsey is an intelligent, talented young woman, and she reminds us a lot of her mother, in physical characteristics and in her sweet disposition. Lindsey is an avid photographer. We asked her to take a photograph of us for our Christmas greeting cards, and she happily obliged. I dare say it is one of the best Christmas photos we’ve ever had made. She didn’t have a lot to work with, but dear Lindsey found a way to make us both look pretty good! That is truly a Christmas miracle!

Isn’t it funny, how we human types try to deny who we are, yet, our life’s snapshots somehow seem to give us away. We cannot cover the mark of the Savior upon our hearts. We are the spitting image of our heavenly Father, recognizable by the love of the Son living within us. Simon Peter was doing his level best not to be recognized that night as a follower of Jesus, but there was no denying it! The crowd couldn’t help but recognize and see the Lord He loves living in him.

There’s just no denying it! You are a child of the King! You bear His resemblance, and everything that makes you special is a direct reflection of the One who gave you these unique attributes! You cannot deny who you are: a child saved by grace, forgiven, and redeemed. Your family photograph is a direct reflection of the One who loves us all.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Saturday, December 20, 2008

Christmas confession

Today’s Reading: John 18:22-24(NIV)

22 When Jesus said this, one of the officials nearby struck him in the face. “Is this the way you answer the high priest?” he demanded. 23 “If I have said something wrong,” Jesus replied, “testify as to what is wrong. But if I spoke the truth, why did you strike me?” 24 Then Annas sent him, still bound, to Caiaphas the high priest.

Good morning!

Just recently, I heard a Christmas confession. It was not exactly something I wanted or needed to know, but my children had carried this secret around in their back pocket for awhile. A little white lie can burn a hole in your back pocket, just like too much change stretching the fabric and eventually splitting the seam. Have you ever had a hole in your back pocket that couldn’t be repaired?

Our children love Christmas! They knew that all the decorating and baking and housecleaning and Christmas parties would lead to the biggest day of the calendar year – the celebration of Jesus’ birthday! We would bake a birthday cake on Christmas Eve and sing happy birthday to Jesus after sharing the holiday meal. They looked forward to the early morning gift exchange, and had trouble sleeping the night before, eagerly anticipating the gifts they would find underneath the tree. Jeff and I did our best to keep the presents wrapped and tucked away in what we had hoped would be a safe hiding place until the big day, but I guess our hiding places were not fool proof. We learned that our children apparently knew all about our their Christmas presents beforehand, as they would snoop around after school, unwrapping and rewrapping the edges of the wrapping paper, peeking at the labels to see what they may expect to open on Christmas morning.

It never occurred to us that our children knew what they were getting for Christmas before Christmas. They always seemed genuinely surprised and excited, and to some extent, I’m sure they were. Nevertheless, in this monumental Christmas confession, our children, who are now raising children of their own, would tell you that this choice to sneak a peek was the one Christmas memory they have regretted the most. The inner torment of exposing what should have been a joyous surprise, caused them a great deal of pain.

It makes one wonder about the guards who smacked Jesus around that night, as he stood trial before the high priest. Did they realize that the blood that covered their knuckles was the blood that would save them for all eternity? Why did they hit the One whose only crime was to speak the truth in love?

We are all God’s children, and all of us have sinned. There’s not a single person alive who hasn’t said or done something that they now regret. The Father gave us the Way, the Truth and the Life; all wrapped up in a perfect package. It was the gift that we had prayed for for years. Just like the guards that night, we took His gift for granted, accused him of blasphemy, and smacked Him in the face by our own selfishness and pride.

Christmas confessions are always good for the soul. And because we love our children and know that sometimes they are going to make mistakes, we choose to forgive and love them all the more. I really felt sorry for the guilt they carried for years; yet, it did not change my love for them or dissuade me from continuing to give them gifts.


The love of God is priceless, and Christ knew that we would reject His truth, yet He gave it to us anyway. His gift comes with no strings attached. Take some time away from the busyness of this season, to make your Christmas confession to the Lord. He will hear you and forgive you. All you have to do is ask.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Parental paparazzi

Today’s Reading: John 18:19-21(NIV)

19 Meanwhile, the high priest questioned Jesus about his disciples and his teaching. 20 “I have spoken openly to the world,” Jesus replied. I always taught in synagogues or at the temple, where all the Jews come together. I said nothing in secret. 21 Why questions me? Ask those who heard me. Surely they know what I said.”

Good morning!

The parking lot was nearly full when we arrived last night at the Holy Child Elementary School for their annual Christmas program. Icy rain had been falling and the parking lot was slick. We skated into the school’s gymnasium, where hundreds of children were seated, dressed in holiday attire, awaiting their turn on the center stage risers. There were so many people in the gymnasium that all of the seats had been taken. What a turnout on such a cold winter’s night! The children sang their songs and spoke their carefully memorized words to the delight of everyone. Parents and grandparents swarmed the front stage with video cameras, snapping pictures and waving to their wee ones on center stage. This was a memory in the making, and something I will not forget.

They sang carols about the baby Jesus with such a great passion! There was no doubt that they knew the One whom they were singing about. He is the star of the night, and the children knew it! Christ’s joy became the children’s joy, and the presence of the Lord filled the entire auditorium. In one memorable moment, peace on earth had come.

Author James W. Moore published a book entitled, If God Has A Refrigerator, Your Picture Is On It. I believe that we, as parents and grandparents, mirror the image of our parental paparazzi. He loves all His children so much that He keeps our mirrored images mounted before Him all over the walls of heaven. There can be no other explanation for the perfect and holy love in the willing sacrifice of Jesus Christ for the sins of the world. Can you picture His love for you?

That night in the garden, Jesus’ mother Mary waited in trembling and fear. How would she ever be able to let go of the Son she bore at the Father’s request? She wondered why the people could not see Him for who He truly is. This man was the baby she nursed, the child she raised; He was the One she followed. She knew He was the Son of the living God, who came to set the people free from sin and death forever. The only picture taken in the garden was that of a heartbroken mother.

The little children smiled for the cameras. Lights were flashing all over the auditorium, and as the parents took their treasured photographs, the Father, Son and Holy Spirit came and snapped a few everlasting pictures Himself.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Monday, December 08, 2008

The gift of life

Today’s Reading: John 18:18(NIV)

18 It was cold, and the servants and officials stood around a fire they had made to keep warm. Peter also was standing with them, warming himself.

Good morning!

Winter has arrived in St. Charles, and the temperatures have dropped significantly in the last week. We kept a fire going in the fireplace Saturday to help warm the great room of the parsonage. There is nothing quite like a fire to help us stay warm in the cold of winter.

I received a very special Christmas present yesterday. Each year, I look forward to that special gift. I never know where it will come from or who will give it to me. Somehow, the present seems to catch me unaware until the moment that it happens. Yet, when it does, I recognize both the gift and the giver. I was helping lead worship yesterday at Faith Church. We were participating in a beautiful Christmas carol liturgy, celebrating the remembrance of the Last Supper in Holy Communion. I was holding the tray of juice for those who came forward to receive the communion elements. I bent down to serve a young child, who had come forward with his mother. He took the bread and juice and went to the altar to pray. As the line continued, I felt a tug on my skirt. Looking down, the boy quietly said, “Could I please have some more?” Smiling, I softly said, “You can have as much as you want.” And with that, he took another cup of juice. The heart of child will always ask for more. We can learn from the children. It is possible that he was simply thirsty and hungry. What better food to give him than the eternal food of Jesus Christ? The look on his innocent face and the simplicity of his request warmed my heart on a cold winter’s day. This is the one gift I will cherish throughout the holidays.

As Peter stood outside in the cold, warming himself by the night fire, I wonder if he was thinking back to the last meal he ate with His Master in the Upper Room. Did the bread and wine become real to him in that moment, as he stood in a cold and lonely courtyard, surrounded by strangers, waiting for news of Jesus? Did the Son’s sacrifice prompt Peter to long for yet another taste of everlasting life?

In this cold world, we find our hearts strangely warmed by the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, in the fire and food. Christ invites all of us to the table for more. Where will you find that one perfect Christmas gift? Give the gift of life! Give them Jesus.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Saturday, December 06, 2008

Telling the Truth

Today’s Reading: John 18:16b-17 (NIV)

16b The other disciple, who was known to the high priest, came back, spoke to the girl on duty there and brought Peter in. 17 “You are not one of His disciples, are you?” the girl at the door asked Peter. He replied, “I am not.”

Good morning!

Jesus was in hot water and Simon Peter knew it. Thinking that anonymity might be best, he denied being one of Christ’s disciples. This was the man who recognized Jesus as the Son of the Living God, the Messiah. Jesus said that His church would be built upon the Rock solid foundation of Peter. Yet, in the courtyard, the Rock was shaken. Sometimes, that firm foundation we stand on seems to quake underneath our feet. Do you think Peter should have told the truth?

This is a unique distinction between human security and our eternal security promised through Christ. His foundation is firm; Christ’s Word is Truth and He spoke the Truth plainly to Simon Peter and the other disciples. Yet, when Jesus was taken into physical custody, His friends did not want to accept or believe it was true. They were not ready to give up their Lord, and yet, they were terrified they might lose their own lives trying to save His. Earthly security can vanish as quickly as the weather changes. What we have today can be gone tomorrow. Eternal security is the only firm foundation we have to stand on.

Isn’t it ironic that even in the courtyard, Peter had no clue that Jesus was literally saving him with every drop of blood that spilled from His body. Peter could not comprehend the length that God was willing to go in order to preserve his soul and the souls of believers forever.

Sometimes things happen in life that we just don’t understand. There are moments when it seems much easier to cower behind our faith, for fear of offending someone else. We hope and pray for the salvation of our family and friends who are not yet believers; yet, we worry about telling them about Jesus for fear they might reject us. We may find ourselves standing with Simon Peter in the courtyard, confronted by a co-worker or friend, and just like Peter, we may choose to deny the Lord we love by our words, our actions, or sheer apathy.

If you had been in the courtyard that day, waiting for word from the High Priest on the fate of the Master, would you have been willing to openly admit your relationship with the Lord? If someone asked you today about your belief in Jesus Christ, what would you say?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Thursday, December 04, 2008

Waiting outside the door


Today’s Reading: John 18:15-16a (NIV)

15 Simon Peter and another disciple were following Jesus. Because this disciple was known to the high priest, he went with Jesus into the high priest’s courtyard, 16 but Peter had to wait outside at the door.

Good morning!

I enjoy watching my grandchildren learn about different geometrical shapes. One of Granny Deb’s favorite toys is Fisher Price’s Baby’s First Blocks shape sorter cube. On the plastic lid, there are cutouts of various geometric shapes: a square, circle, triangle, rectangle, and oval. Inside the cube are wooden block cutouts in the exact same shape and size. The objective is to find the block that matches the shape on the lid, slipping it into the container. Our grandchildren would sit for long periods of time, trying to figure out why they cannot seem to push a square block through a round hole.

Have you ever felt as if you were the square block, trying to squeeze through a round hole?

While we share a lot of common ground, every human heart has a specific set of identifiers that sets us apart as individuals. We have a name; and it is unique to each of us. We are sometimes classified by our physical attributes; whether we are short or tall, fair or dark skinned, and even our age range places us in specific categories and groupings. We are often recognized by our beliefs and philosophies, the things we say and do, and the way we choose to live out our days. In Missouri, we are culturally categorized by where we graduated from high school, a unique identifier of Midwestern culture. What are some individual attributes that set you apart from the world around you?

Jesus had been arrested and Peter, along with another disciple, presumably John, followed the Lord to the high priest’s courtyard. The unnamed disciple was recognized by the girl on duty, and she let him into the courtyard. Peter got stuck outside the door. The guard did not know who he was.

Sometimes anonymity seems preferable. We look to fade into the faces of the crowd, unrecognized by the ones who may judge us harshly for who we are. We don’t often seem to fit the stereotypical, theological shape that our culture longs to embrace. We stick out like a square peg, trying to slip through a round hole. My grandchildren would tell you that the shape doesn’t fit.

Once Peter was identified as a follower of Christ, he received admission into the high priest’s courtyard. This unwelcome recognition came at a cost to Peter and all who knew him. He wasn’t so sure he wanted everyone to know who he was and whose he was.

Are you waiting outside the doors of faith, hoping someone will recognize you and let you in?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Wednesday, December 03, 2008

Preliminary Hearing

Today’s Reading: John 18:13-14 (NIV)

13 They brought Him first to Annas, who was the father-in-law of Caiaphas, the high priest that year. 14 Caiaphas was the one who had advised the Jews that it would be good if one man died for the people.

Good morning!

It wasn’t exactly the preliminary hearing Jesus’ disciples had hoped for. Taken into custody in the middle of the night, Jesus stood before Annas for questioning. Annas had been high priest for nine years, and even though Caiaphas was high priest this year, many considered the election of high priest to be a lifelong vocation. The people looked to Annas because they believed he had a brilliant mind and exercised sound judgment. What in the world was he thinking that night as Jesus was brought before him?

A preliminary hearing is an opportunity to hear evidence brought by a prosecutor, to determine whether and to what extent criminal charges should be filed. The outcome of this hearing sets the tone for the upcoming trial. It determines which court will hear the case, and what evidence will be admitted. In America’s judicial system, the accused is allowed to have legal counsel represent his or her interests at the preliminary hearing. If the accused cannot afford to pay for legal services, free legal counsel is provided.

Did anyone speak for Jesus at this secret lynching? Who could have adequately represented the Lord God Almighty in a human kangaroo court?

Fact-finding questions are asked at the preliminary hearing, to determine if the alleged crime occurred within this court’s jurisdiction, and whether there is probable cause to believe that the defendant actually committed the crime. If the judge determines there is sufficient evidence to believe the defendant did commit the crime, the judge would set a date for arraignment, at which time the defendant could enter his plea of innocent or guilty.

As the sun came up over the Jerusalem that morning, Jesus had already been arrested, arraigned, tried and convicted. At best, this was a total mockery of justice. At least Jesus knew He would not die in vain. The blood He shed for the sins of the world is the same blood that continues to wash and cleanse us today.

If you had been there, what charges would you have leveled against the Son of God in a preliminary hearing? Would you stand up in defense of the Master, or accuse the Lord of blasphemy? Would you have cared enough to get up in the middle of the night to attend the preliminary hearing?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Tuesday, December 02, 2008

Unbound

Today’s Reading: John 18:12 (NIV)

12 Then the detachment of soldiers with its commander and the Jewish officials arrested Jesus. They bound Him.

Good morning!

My father gave me a butterfly net when I was a little girl. Whenever we would visit my grandparents’ farm in the early summer, I would take my net and go outside to find the butterflies. Some of the prettiest and most unusual butterflies would end up in the mesh net. I quickly learned that if I grabbed their wings with too much force, I would rip or tear them to pieces. Butterfly wings are extraordinary in texture, color and hue. I did not want to hurt the butterflies; I only wanted to see their wings up close.

The net couldn’t hold them for long. The butterflies would find a way to slip through an opening and fly away. One year, Daddy helped me collect a variety of butterflies and moths to display at my elementary school’s science fair. I placed them in cotton lined coffee cans, punching tiny air holes in the plastic lids so they could breathe. After they adjusted to the surroundings of their enclosed cage, they would stop moving. If I opened the lid to check on them, out they would fly, suddenly and without warning. You see, there are just some things that simply cannot be bound, no matter how hard we try to hold them.

The Roman authorities and the Jewish officials who sought the capture and conviction of Jesus were pleased with their latest conquest. They shackled the Lord, believing they could stop His message and mission. The Roman authorities feared Christ’s popularity among the people. They were blinded to His life’s blood flowing from the Father through the Son to the world. They didn’t know they could not bind the love of God. They did not realize it was God Himself who allowed His own capture that night.

The love of God is a beautiful thing. It is virtually impossible to keep it to yourself. His grace and mercy is the Father’s free gift to all who will believe and receive the Son. It is more beautiful than the butterfly wings hand-crafted by the Master artist. May you experience the Father’s gift of love through the gift of Jesus, and pass it on to someone you know today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Monday, December 01, 2008

Accept the gift

Today’s Reading: John 18:10-11 (NIV)

10 Then Simon Peter, who had a sword, drew it and struck the high priest’s servant, cutting off his right ear. (The servant’s name was Malchus.) 11 Jesus commanded Peter, “Put your sword away! Shall I not drink the cup the Father has given me?”

Good morning!

Why did Jesus have to die?

Simon Peter knew what was coming, but he didn’t like it, not even a little bit. I imagine that is why he drew his sword in defense of the Master. Peter is a man with great passion. He cared deeply for the Lord, and for his friends, the men and women he walked beside during the three year mission trip. The Holy Spirit had supernaturally revealed to Peter that Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the Son of the living God. Still, the Master’s words were about to come to fruition. He was going to die, just as He said. Maybe Peter thought he could change the situation with a little diversion. In that moment, Peter would have preferred to die himself rather than watch the Romans take the One He loves. Peter allowed his passion to move ahead of God’s will, and it took him to a place he would rather not be.

I’m sure Peter didn’t know anything about me twenty-one centuries ago. He didn’t know that I would need the Lord to save me from my sin. Jesus said He came for this very purpose; to fulfill the Father’s plan for the salvation of the world. Peter reacted out of fear, when he took his sword and sliced the servant’s ear. He didn’t want the Roman guard to take the Lord away. I don’t blame Peter him for reacting like that. I might have done the exact same thing had I been standing next to Jesus that night in the garden.

Jesus knew that I would need His gift of salvation in 2008. If it were not for His willingness to take my sins upon Himself and endure the agony of the cross, I would have no future; no hope. Jesus came to die for me and He died for you too, and for all who comes after us. The day will come when every knee will bow and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord.

Knowing all this doesn’t make it any easier. Peter, the Rock, took matters into His own hands instead of waiting for the Lord. Sometimes, we can step in the way of God’s master plan. It is time we learn to get out of the way and let God be God.

Why did Jesus have to die? He died to save the world; He died to save you and me. And that, my friends, is the best gift we will ever receive. Will you accept His gift today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.