Tuesday, December 22, 2009

A biscuit with honey


Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:1-3 NIV

1 After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem 2 and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw His star in the east and have come to worship Him.” 3 When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.

Good morning!

Jealousy is a terrible thing. When people feel threatened, they sometimes say and do things that they often live to regret. King Herod was no exception. He knew about the Jews’ long awaited Messiah, and when he heard the news of a newborn king, he completely flipped out. Have you ever been wronged by someone who was obviously jealous of you? Have you ever been jealous of someone else? Did you choose to act on those feelings?

I think our two year old grandson, Andrew, may have been a little bit jealous of his five year old sister, Emily. For the last several weeks, Emily has been recovering from a kidney/bladder surgery. This has required a major shift in attention, as Mom and Dad have been spending a lot of time with Emily at the hospital and at home. Andrew, whose was nicknamed “Biscuit” by his mother on the day he was born, decided to have a little honey for breakfast while she was taking a shower. She left him in front of the television watching his favorite cartoon while she took ten minutes for herself. Rachel couldn’t believe what mischief a two year old can get into in just ten minutes’ time. Andrew went to the kitchen, climbed up on a footstool and pulled out a plastic bottle of Honey Bee® Honey from the shelf. I don’t know how he did it, but Andrew managed to get the entire lid off the sticky bottle. Carrying the bottle upside down up the stairs, Andrew left a trail of honey all over the carpeted steps and upstairs landing. Then, he decided to play in it and run all over the house with sticky hands and feet.

His choice to wreck the house certainly caught the immediate attention of his mother. I had to laugh out loud when I saw the photographs of the mess Andrew made and his time out spent in the bathtub, posted on Rachel’s Facebook® page. My sister Pam commented, “There is nothing better than a Biscuit with Honey! I would have to agree with that statement. How could such a sweet little face get into such a sticky, ugly mess? Do you think Andrew was looking for a little extra attention from Mommy?

From Adam and through every generation, we have certainly found ways to act out and disobey our heavenly Father. Our sin, which has resulted from a growing jealousy deep within our hearts, cries out for the Father’s immediate attention. This is exactly why we need a Savior to help us, and this is the very reason Jesus came. Herod had no clue that his actions could not hamper the will of the Father or the obedience of His Son. His fit of rage cost many families in Bethlehem the lives of their first-born sons. We read this Scripture every Advent, and yet, our culture has yet to learn the real lesson offered from this story.

Are you starving for a little extra attention today? Are you misbehaving to get what you think you need or deserve? Whom have you hurt by your actions? This is a great day to take some time to confess all of your sins to the Father. Ask Him to forgive you, in Jesus’ holy name. The infant king died and rose again to save you from your jealous rage inside, eating you alive. Do not hesitate to give Him your whole heart today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Monday, December 21, 2009

Gold, Frankincense and Chicken Nuggets

Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:11-12 NIV

11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with His mother, Mary, and they bowed down and worshipped Him. Then they opened their treasures and presented Him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. 12 And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

Good morning!

Yesterday, our family gathered to celebrate Jesus’ birthday! All three of our children came home and all five grandchildren were together over the weekend, playing and laughing, and enjoying the blessings of family.

The meal was delicious, but my favorite part was the dessert! We should have eaten dessert first! Grandpa Jeff bought an ice cream birthday cake from our favorite fast food restaurant. We sang Happy Birthday to Jesus and enjoyed a little slice of heaven. Even my mother ate an entire piece of ice cream cake! I don’t know of anyone who would turn down ice cream cake at Christmastime.

The grandchildren were delighted to find Bible trivia card games in their stockings. We played Bible trivia most of the afternoon. I learned something new! Grandpa Jeff asked the following to Joshua and Emily: The three wise men brought gifts of gold, frankincense and ______________ to the baby Jesus. Without hesitation, five year old Emily filled in the blank – chicken nuggets! Seven year old Joshua loves trivia. He took the cards and was reading questions to the adults sitting around the room. He turned to me and said, “Nanny, this question is for you because you are a church person.” His mother, Rachel, laughed out loud and said, “What – I don’t count even though I go to church and teach Sunday school every week?” I am convinced that Grandmothers are very special people for young hearts. I am glad my grandson sees me as a church person; yet, I still have so much to learn. I am sorry to say that I failed the spelling bee when I tried to spell Frankincense without looking at a Bible to help me.

It is easy to forget the reason why we give gifts at Christmas. Sometimes, we make way too much over purchasing large, expensive packages, and we end up missing the point. The wise men had traveled for months, following the star in the east, just to see and worship the newborn king. They brought special treasures and gave gifts from the heart, knowing it would carry a special meaning for the baby boy and his parents. Are you missing the point this year?

The greatest gift the world has ever received is the gift of God’s only Son, Jesus Christ, who willingly became fully human; yet, remained fully divine. He arrived in a most unlikely way, born as a babe to a poor young girl and her soon-to-be husband in a cold, dark stable one extraordinary night in the town of Bethlehem. Jesus is our true present! May you find yourself drawn into Christ’s holy presence this week. What gift would you give to honor our Lord?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Saturday, December 19, 2009

Making a list and checking it twice

Today’s Reading: Luke 1:49 NIV

49 For the Mighty One has done great things for me – holy is His name.

Good morning!

I’ve been making a list and checking it twice but it is not the list I presume you are thinking of. Year end is a time to close out the old and ring in the new. We assess and review our lives and whether we’ve reached the goals we set out to achieve twelve months ago. Many Americans make New Years resolutions: to break some old, bad habit and strive for greater achievement in the upcoming year. We take stock of the events that had life-altering consequences for our families, and we find overwhelming joy in affirming our blessings. My personal list looks very different from years past, and I confess that I am more than ready to set this year behind me and embrace a brand new season with hope. Adversity will either leave a bitter taste in your mouth, or it can bring you great joy. How you embrace the life you’ve been given is a choice that only you can make.

Mary certainly had some adversity going on in her young life! She had just become engaged to a wonderful man. What an exciting and hopeful time! Just when things seemed to be coming together as she had planned, Mary had a very unusual visitation; an angel proclaiming that God had chosen her to carry and bear His only Son, the long-awaited Messiah. When Mary realized she was part of a far greater plan than her own, she immediately embraced this daunting task, unwavering in faith and bright hope for a new tomorrow. I cannot imagine how absolutely confused and terrified I would have been, if God had sent an angel with a message like that to me. I would have asked the Father for five minutes, to create a quick Excel spreadsheet on my I-Phone, outlining the pros and cons of His master plan in colorful bar graphs before I gave Him my final answer. I have a nasty little habit of trying over analyze everything. Let’s take a closer look at Mary’s situation: Being pregnant outside of marriage would potentially end her engagement to Joseph. He would no longer trust her; how would she convince Joe that she had not been unfaithful? Her parents would reject her, casting her out from the only family she knew and loved. Mary faced probable death as the standard punishment for her unplanned pregnancy, especially if Joseph chose to publicly condemn her. Mary had every reason to be scared; yet, she trusted the Father enough to know whatever her circumstance, He would be there to see her through it. She was more than willing; in fact, Mary praised the Lord for the great things He has done!

Mary’s song of praise, also known as the Magnificat, has been sung in our churches for many years. Her words have inspired great hymns and choral works, heard every year, especially at Christmas. Mary made an instantaneous decision to glorify God for His great work, and praised Him for what He would do in and through her humble heart. She embraced His will with such passion, that it makes me feel so ashamed every time God calls me and I hesitate. Mary seemed to care very little about any potential judgment or personal suffering she might endure. Her only desire was to please the Father and walk in obedience to His will for her life. Her happiness and joy is more than apparent in her words, “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for He has been mindful of the humble state of His servant.” Luke 1:46-48a NIV.

This is a great weekend to praise God for all He has and continues to do in your life! Have you made your list and checked it twice? Do not miss a great opportunity to personally thank Him today. There is a celebration happening right now – folks are preparing to welcome a brand new day. Won’t you take some time this weekend to come and worship the Savior with me? Come and hear the sweet music ringing around the world, as we marvel at Mary’s unwavering devotion to the Father, and the miracle child, who is coming very, very soon. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Friday, December 18, 2009

Facing fear with faith

Today’s Reading: Luke 1:37 NIV

37 For nothing is impossible with God.

Good morning!

Are you ever been surprised by a life-altering curve ball? Sometimes it is hard to see beyond a particular circumstance or situation, especially when it wasn’t part of your master plan. If I could somehow simplify the journey, I would much prefer to lay it all out in front of me as a visual aid, keeping the road map handy to know where I am headed before I arrive. Are you like me? Would you prefer not to be hit by the curve balls of life?

No matter how difficult our circumstance, I am convinced there is no one who had a more surprising curve ball thrown at her than Mary, when the angel Gabriel visited her in Nazareth. Mary’s parents were poor; yet raised her well. As a young teen, Mary was admired by Joseph, a successful carpenter in town. Everyone knew Joseph – he was a man of great integrity, and a very hard worker. When Joseph asked for Mary’s hand in marriage, it seemed that she would never have to worry about having a roof over her head or food to eat. Joseph would make a fine husband and father for her children. Mary had a true sense of direction. She felt safe and loved. Her life was finally coming together, just as she had planned.

Can you imagine how Mary must have felt when the angel appeared to her that day, proclaiming that she had been chosen to bear the Messiah? Surprised and frightened, Mary could have responded by questioning or even refusing God’s plan for her life over her own. The most amazing part of this story for me is how Mary doesn’t even hesitate in answering God’s call. “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38a)

Mary had some sense of what she would endure in telling Joseph she was pregnant. She knew she would face certain penalties imposed by the law for an unmarried woman with child. Despite her fear of the unknown, Mary faced certain public condemnation and death with great courage. She trusted God enough even though she could not see what the future would hold. Her faith is the kind of faith I would like to receive this Christmas.

Maybe your life has not worked out quite the way you had hoped it would. An unplanned event not previously scheduled on your life's calendar has thrown you for a loop, and you find yourself wondering what to do. The answer may be as simple as this: “I am the Lord’s servant. May it be to me as you have said.” Let go of your own imperfect plan, and embrace all that the Father has for you today. We can learn a lot from Mary; she faced her fear with faith.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Monday, December 14, 2009

The first census

Today’s Reading: Luke 2:1-3 NIV

1 In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. 2 (This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) 3 And everyone went to his own town to register.

Good morning!

Last night at Faith Church, we experienced what a census taking might have been like in the town of Bethlehem. The entire church was transformed into a marketplace where folks came to register their families, as required by the law. People were walking along a narrow path shoulder to shoulder! There was so much to see and do! I traveled in a family of fifteen and was quite taken with the children in our group. I find I learn best through the eyes of a child, and I was not disappointed in this journey.

Families crowded together to register, surrounded by scary looking Roman guard. Every child received a bag of coins to spend at the various shops along the way. In the carpenter’s shop, the children enjoyed hammering nails into pieces of wood, and fashioning miniature sail boats, just like the boats the fisherman used to catch fish on the Sea of Galilee. In the leather shop, the children were able to touch and smell different types of soft leather. While listening to the stories of the leather makers, they made leather bracelets to wear throughout the evening. There was a candy shop, where the children got to make and taste baklava, a sweet treat! In the bakery, the women explained the bread baking process and samples of fresh bread was served to all, even the beggars that hung around outside its doors, begging for something to eat.

At each stop, we heard rumors of a Savior being born that night somewhere in Bethlehem. As we traveled from place to place, our family continued to search together for the miracle that everyone kept talking about. The shop owners told of angels and shepherds and a star that would lead us to the infant king, if we would simply follow it. Children of all ages enjoyed the hands-on scavenger hunt, putting the clues together piece by piece, as we walked through the marketplace with our family.

As we traveled together, I began to notice some very sleepy faces. Where could our family find a quiet place to rest, an escape from the hustle and bustle of the large crowds in the marketplace? The shepherds led us to a dark stable just outside of town, where the children met Joseph, Mary, and a beautiful newborn baby named Jesus face to face. We heard the amazing story of the baby’s birth told by the pastors. Then, we were invited to have our family picture made with the Holy Family. The children were fascinated to see the newborn baby, who wiggled and cooed in his mother’s arms. Children of all ages simply did not want to leave. We just wanted to stay near the Savior and look at Him. I saw one of the little girls from our family standing near the manger, waving to the baby and saying, “I love you, Jesus!” I know exactly how she feels.

There is no greater gift than the gift of our Savior. The presence of Christ in our lives is the best present you or I will ever receive. May you find yourself journeying to Bethlehem to meet the Christ child this Advent season. When the census is taken, will your family be registered?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Sunday, December 13, 2009

The pillow

Today’s Reading: I Corinthians 1:3-4 NIV

3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.

Good morning!

When our son David was born prematurely, the volunteers at St. John’s Mercy Medical Center gave us a small pillow with his birth information as a token gift. He was too tiny to care much about it then; yet, that pillow became quite a comfort to him later on in life. As David grew, he proudly carried his birth pillow everywhere he went! We had to arm wrestled that child to give the pillow up just long enough so Mommy could wash it. He would stand by the dryer with crocodile tears running down his face, waiting impatiently for the dry buzzer to sound. One of my favorite photographs of David was when he proudly graduated from preschool. He stood underneath the big oak tree in front of our church parsonage in his yellow cap and gown, grinning from ear to ear, hugging the stuffing out of his pillow. When he began elementary school, David’s pillow remained hidden in the bottom of his backpack, just underneath his feet at the foot of the desk.

A small, fluffy pillow can make a big difference to a hurting child. I’ve been pondering what kind of comfort the baby Jesus experienced in the manger the very first winter of his earthly life. When his mother Mary was not nursing him, or holding the babe in her arms, I wondered whether she fashioned a small pillow from the hay and swaddling clothes, to keep the infant Savior comforted throughout those long winter nights. Tonight when I attend A Night in Bethlehem at Faith United Methodist Church in St. Charles, Missouri, I will get to relive what it may have been like the night God sent His only Son to save us. When the shepherds came and wise men gave their treasures to the newborn babe, I knew what gift I would give to the baby in the manger.

Our five-year-old granddaughter, Emily, recently spent eight days in the hospital, following surgery to correct a very similar birth defect that our son David was born with. A group of volunteers at Children’s Hospital gave gifts of handmade hope and love for each of its wee patients. When Emily was admitted, she was given the cutest little handmade pillow to hold after she woke up from surgery. Whenever she would cough, Emily held that pillow against her belly to comfort her through the pain. As a grandmother, I relived many of the memories I had with my own son, watching and waiting as our Emily recovered.

When I arrived in Arnold early Saturday morning, Emily was sleeping peacefully in her bedroom upstairs. When she spotted me sitting on the sofa along with her brothers, Emily became very excited. “Nanny,” she said, “I have a surprise present for you! Close your eyes and stay right there.” She returned shortly with a small gift in her hands. “I want to give this to you, Nanny,” she said. In her hands was the tiny pillow from the hospital. “This is for your sore shoulder; it will make you feel better too.” Emily was quite right, as I took the pillow and pressed it tightly between my neck and shoulder. What great comfort I received from my own grandchild that day!

How such a small, tangible gift can bring comfort to a hurting world is hard to imagine. It is the Savior’s love, flowing down from our Heavenly Father above. What gift will you bring to the manger? I’m giving Jesus my heart, for it is all I have to give. And I think I’ll take a small heart-shaped pillow along, to comfort the baby in the manger.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Wednesday, December 02, 2009

“Wanting”

Today’s reading - Acts 12:20-23 (NIV): Then Herod went from Judea to Caesarea and stayed there a while. 20He had been quarreling with the people of Tyre and Sidon; they now joined together and sought an audience with him. Having secured the support of Blastus, a trusted personal servant of the king, they asked for peace, because they depended on the king's country for their food supply.

21On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public address to the people. 22They shouted, "This is the voice of a god, not of a man.

23Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.

Wanting can be crippling if a person allows it to creep into their lives. Here we see that the people wanted for peace, so they ‘used’ someone to try to get peace. Herod wanted to be powerful over everyone so he used his kingship to advance. Then there are those that wanted security and they shouted that Herod was a god.

They all received the opportunity, whether they believed or didn’t believe, to actually see God put an angel of the Lord into action. Wow, I’d like to see an angel. Actually I believe that we do see the angels that God chooses to send to us. With our minds and hearts open and willing to believe, God grants us opportunities to experience His angels. They surround is always, watching over us, protecting us, praising God on our behalf, singing hallelujah awaiting us to join the angel choir some day.

During this winter season, scan the dark night sky looking to the heavens and enjoy the stars; which them glimmer, recognize hope in them and realize the God of the universe is the God of heaven and nature, then sing your angel song, wanting for nothing because you have everything through Christ Jesus.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Tuesday, December 01, 2009

"Person of Infuence"

Today’s reading - Acts 12:16-19 (NIV): 16But Peter kept on knocking, and when they opened the door and saw him, they were astonished. 17Peter motioned with his hand for them to be quiet and described how the Lord had brought him out of prison. "Tell James and the brothers about this," he said, and then he left for another place.

18In the morning, there was no small commotion among the soldiers as to what had become of Peter. 19After Herod had a thorough search made for him and did not find him, he cross-examined the guards and ordered that they be executed.

By a simple motion of his hand, Peter had everyone present captivated and hushed ready to listen. Then there is Herod, by a critical examination, he had people on the hunt to execute the guards. Both men had people listen and follow the orders given – what a powerful influence these two men had, but so vastly different.

Sometimes people search for ways to be influential and powerful, just to feel empty and breathless. Others serve with humility, standing in the background, unnoticed feeling hopeful for the future. What we do in life, is not what is important; what is important is how we serve and live our lives. The power to influence belongs to God. His power and mercy and grace are freely given to everyone. How these gifts are received and used for His kingdom influences all of eternity.

Make it a point to be influenced by God’s power and share how He released you from the bondage of sin and death.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Monday, November 30, 2009

"Am I?"

Today's reading - Acts 12:15 (NIV): 15 "You're out of your mind," they told her. When she kept insisting that it was so, they said, "It must be his angel."

I have strayed from writing the daily devotional from scriptures of the book of Acts. As with all of you, I have been extremely busy and that is my excuse. I haven’t forgotten that our friend Deb had been allowing me to continue this journey in her stead as she heals, I just simply had other responsibilities that took a great deal of my time. But today is the day to start afresh, right where we left off.

“Are you out of your mind?” is a question I have asked myself and others thousands of times in the past and I never knew I was quoting scripture! In that context, I think this verse is humorous, but let’s look at it in a different light.

There are many days that I keep insisting ‘yes you did, no I did not, did too, are you sure’ (because I usually don’t remember but feel the need to defend myself). Perhaps that is self protection, asserting my right to never admit I can’t remember something. I use to have such a vast memory bank, but not any more.

Just this morning about 1 ½ hours into work, I said out loud to my co-workers “I don’t remember what I did with my lunch.” I went back to my car and did not find them so at this point I couldn’t remember if I got it out of the refrigerator or not. Yes I did, I know I did, then Phil calls, guess what is on the kitchen table dear?

I too must be out of my mind just as this servant girl was being accused of being. I love how she exclaimed that ‘it must be his angel.” In our daily lives we too should call upon the angels of God, the ones singing praises to the King of the Jews, praising God always, eternally.

Let’s you and I live in the moment of angels always, and may we never forget to do just that. If we claim it out loud, maybe someone will say “You’re out of your mind,” and we can respond, yes, we are in the mind of the Holy one, always loved and cared for and for that we are praising His name, Emmanuel.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Roses of healing

Today’s Reading: Ephesians 3:20-21 NIV

20 Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to His power that is at work within us, 21 to Him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Good morning!

I peeked out my sparkling clean bedroom window this morning, and gazed in amazement at the beautiful blooming roses in my garden. Several days this month have been so very warm and unusually beautiful for this time of year, and a dear friend offered to come and clean my windows so I could sit and enjoy the changing season in its wondrous splendor. I don’t exactly know how to thank her for the gifts she has given me through the years. Today I find myself so very thankful for all of the friends in my life.

It is a very chilly morning; most of the leaves have fallen from the trees and the billowing clouds in the sky remind me of the winter air that will soon be upon us. Still, on my beautiful rose bush just outside the bedroom window, I have several dozen beautifully formed red roses, reminding me that life goes on and on, even at this particular season in my life.

I’ve been struggling to regain full use of my right hand and arm for awhile. There are days when I wonder if I will awake to new sense of feeling, new life being reborn once again. Just when I begin to think it may not be possible, His Word reminds me of the wonderful promises we have in Christ Jesus, our King. We know that even in the coldest, darkest days, He is breathing new life into our hearts, our bodies, and our minds. Just like these beautiful roses of fall, we can see His healing touch shining in and through the love of His treasured ones.

Regardless of how I might feel physically today, I can wholly depend upon His Word and know without a doubt that Jesus Christ is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine according to His Power that lives within each of us. Just look outside and see the roses blooming. Do not ever doubt in the miraculous healing power of Jesus.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Friday, November 20, 2009

A gooey mess of sin

Today’s Reading: Matthew 8:24-25 NIV

24 Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. 25 The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against the house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock.

Good morning!

Reluctantly, my husband Jeff brought me a chocolate protein shake that I asked for while lying in bed and he handed it to me with a stern warning, “Now Deb, do not fall asleep before you drink it.” I heard him say the words, and I really meant to heed them, but just a few short minutes later, I found myself covered from head to toe in cold chocolate goo. Why do we listen yet refuse to obey? What keeps us from following the good instructions our Daddy gives us?

Jesus gave us great instructions for living. His words were clear and plain. I don’t know whether we’re simply tone deaf, too tired to pay attention, or just plain sin sick, but often, we ignore the rules and find ourselves soaked in a gooey mess of trouble. I was pretty embarrassed when my youngest son came to check in on me that morning and found me sound asleep in a pool of chocolate. He must have thought that was some crazy dream I was having. Who wouldn’t want to jump into a vat of yummy chocolate and swim around in it for awhile? The problem with chocolate is that it stains everything it touches. My sheets were ruined. My favorite pajamas had to be tossed. It took two shampoos to get it all out of my hair, and believe me, it is so hard to raise the arm I just had surgery on to wash my hair, that I was truly regretting my silly mistake before I was washed completely clean.

There are no silly sins in life, but we are often silly in perpetrating them. Jesus tells us to listen and we somehow forget to listen and follow His instruction. If we would just do what we were told, we wouldn’t find ourselves in such a sticky mess.

The next time your husband tells you not to drink a chocolate protein shake in bed, be sure to pay attention. And the next time Jesus tells you to hear His Word and put it into practice, do the right thing, and obey His Word.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The music of love

Today’s Reading: Psalm 107:1 NIV

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His love endures forever.

Good morning!

This has been a very sad and painful time in my family’s life. Last week, I had a second surgery, which I had hoped and had prayed to the Lord I might avoid. The surgeon was brilliant and the procedure was a success. Now the recovery begins, and with God’s strength, I will heal. The day after my surgery, my mother fell at home and broke a bone that will not mend easily. She is in a great deal of pain, and yet, the Lord is right beside her, every step of the way. Sometimes I don’t understand why things happen the way they do. Just at the time when she needs me most, I am unable to help her. Maybe there is a greater plan here which I do not yet understand. One thing I know for certain – God is good, especially in the tough times of our lives, and His love endures forever.

The medications I take to help with pain make me weepy. I seem to have a bottomless well of tears rising up from seemingly out of nowhere. My husband hates it when I cry. It makes him sad to see me sad. Even in our tears, we can laugh, knowing God is wiping every tear away and He will bring us great joy in the morning. Jeff did a really sweet thing for me last night and I just wanted you to know what his random act of kindness meant to me. I fell asleep in the Lazy Boy® recliner yesterday afternoon and didn’t wake up until 3:30 this morning. By then, I had missed two doses of medication and, as you might imagine, I was in excruciating pain. Hobbling back to the bedroom, moaning every step of the way, Jeff crawled out of bed to find my medicine. He tucked me into bed and put on my favorite Christmas CD. The first sounds I heard were the sound of church chimes ringing from a distance. Soon, my sobbing turned to tears of joy as I heard tenor Josh Groban sing of my Savior’s birth. Like a beautiful lullaby, I fell asleep listening to the Scripture sung in perfect harmony. What a wonderful reminder of the gift of new life that is given each and every day for all who believe.

Even though I cannot be physically present with my mother every minute of the day, I have His promise that He has not forsaken her. She hears the same beautiful melodies that I am listening to now. We are not alone, especially in times of suffering.

On this day, I am thankful for my Lord Jesus Christ. He is good and His love endures all things, forever and ever. Be thankful with me and rejoice, for we are not alone. We have a Savior and He loves us with a love that will not let us go.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

“Top Three”

Today's reading - Acts 12:12-14 (NIV): 12When this had dawned on him, he went to the house of Mary the mother of John, also called Mark, where many people had gathered and were praying. 13Peter knocked at the outer entrance, and a servant girl named Rhoda came to answer the door. 14When she recognized Peter's voice, she was so overjoyed she ran back without opening it and exclaimed, "Peter is at the door!"

This is really an exciting moment for the servant girl. Most likely she had been doing her chores and had not been praying with the others. But she knew who Peter was by his voice and was excited to announce his appearance! How wonderful for her.

I would certainly be a changed person if I recognized Jesus’ voice each time He sends a message to me through someone. There are ways that I can improve my hearing.


  • First - Awareness is vital. I must be aware of Christ’s presence in my surroundings, aware that the people I come in contact with are divine appointments to do something with.
  • Second – Praying for that awareness is essential. I can’t recognize the voice, if I don’t ask Him to help me.
  • Third – Acknowledge the message and ask the Lord if it is His will.

The list can go on and on, but these are the top three for me. I want to recognize the voice of God because He is calling me! Take a moment and decide your top three.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Monday, November 16, 2009

“He does and you can”

Today’s reading - Acts 12:10-11 (NIV): 10They passed the first and second guards and came to the iron gate leading to the city. It opened for them by itself, and they went through it. When they had walked the length of one street, suddenly the angel left him.

11Then Peter came to himself and said, "Now I know without a doubt that the Lord sent his angel and rescued me from Herod's clutches and from everything the Jewish people were anticipating."

The Lord God Almighty rescues! There is no doubt in my mind that God rescues. Yes, as many others, I have had a conversion experience, it was in 1986, I remember the exact moment, location and experience. This recognition is my acceptance of God’s ultimate rescue of me. He took me out of a miry pit and rescued me!

That is not the only time the Almighty has rescued me. I am rescued daily and I hope that you believe you are also. Today I was rescued from being involved in an automobile accident. Like Peter, I was not myself for a few moments, driving down the road with my head and mind somewhere else, then my mind stirred to alertness and rescue was activated.

Peter knew without a doubt he says, that the Lord sent his angel. I love that! Not too many guys I know would come out and say that. It is true though, angels surround us at all times, we seldom see the bright light that Peter did, but nevertheless God chooses to rescue us.

Make a list each day of the times that you were rescued from a situation, action, inappropriate internal thoughts etc. pray, give thanks, recognize God has more in store for you. Stay in love with God and live a holy life. He will rescue you so that you can!

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Sunday, November 15, 2009

"Trust and Obey"

Today’s reading - Acts 12:7-9 (NIV): 7Suddenly an angel of the Lord appeared and a light shone in the cell. He struck Peter on the side and woke him up. "Quick, get up!" he said, and the chains fell off Peter's wrists.
8Then the angel said to him, "Put on your clothes and sandals." And Peter did so. "Wrap your cloak around you and follow me," the angel told him. 9Peter followed him out of the prison, but he had no idea that what the angel was doing was really happening; he thought he was seeing a vision.

When I was a teenager, I hated it when my parents would come in and wake me up with some sort of loud noise or flashing overhead light or singing (that was the worse). It would startle me and my head would pound and heart would race and I would be out of sorts for quite a while. Guess what, I did it to my kids, although I never sang them out of bed, but a glass of cold water to the face, will get you out the door to go to High School. (now I wonder what I was thinking then.)

So the word ‘suddenly’ in this scripture means a lot to me and it must have Peter also after all a light appeared, a voice came and the chains fell off, all while sleeping between two guardsmen. Within a matter of seconds, the angel speaks to Peter giving instructions which he follows. I find it interesting to think that Peter had no idea what was going on and thought it was a vision.

As a teenager, to obey my parents was expected; they ran a pretty tight ship. But to obey out of a dead sleep, while in jail and from a light shinning in, had to take trust. The kind of trust that only God can provide. Peter was beginning to understand that God was guiding him and providing for him, so his trust in God was building.

You and I need those building block experiences with God in order for us to trust and obey. Our God, king of all kings, our great high priest, gives us that power within our flesh to trust that His son provided our salvation and the Holy Spirit continues to speak to us and guide us every moment. We must obey.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo
www.aldersgatgechurch.com

Saturday, November 14, 2009

"When Christians Pray"

Today’s reading - Acts 12:1-6 (NIV): 1It was about this time that King Herod arrested some who belonged to the church, intending to persecute them. 2He had James, the brother of John, put to death with the sword. 3When he saw that this pleased the Jews; he proceeded to seize Peter also. This happened during the Feast of Unleavened Bread. 4After arresting him, he put him in prison, handing him over to be guarded by four squads of four soldiers each. Herod intended to bring him out for public trial after the Passover.

5So Peter was kept in prison, but the church was earnestly praying to God for him.

6The night before Herod was to bring him to trial, Peter was sleeping between two soldiers, bound with two chains, and sentries stood guard at the entrance.

In Chapter 11 we looked at the growth of the early Christians, their leaders, the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in people’s lives and the message of Jesus the Messiah was penetrating hearts. Let’s take a look at what is next by starting chapter 12. The King Herod of this era is not the same King Herod the Great who reigned during the birth of Jesus, it is his grandson. Like it or not, traits from our ancestors do get passed on, some traits we like and others we, well, shall I say nicely, dislike.

In order to win the favor of the Roman government, persecuting Christians again seems to be the thing to do to please the government and the Jewish people. If this was happening in our neighborhood (and for some of you it may be) it would not be pleasing, it would be illegal and absolutely wrong.

Peter was to be the next Big target, for he was becoming more and more respected and more people were becoming Christians, as you recall both Gentiles and Jews were converting. This fact was enough to threaten the empire and the Jewish family tree.

When I feel threaten in any way, I tend to want to take the defense at that very moment. I don’t take enough time to stop to see what else is happening, what lead up to this, why it might be happening or what is the best strategy to eliminate the threat. There is the word, eliminate, ugh, I thought it and I typed it. I know I don’t want to eliminate anyone; I just merely want to not feel threatened. I take feeling threatened as a personal attack on my character.

For me to set that aside, I need guidance and direction, which only can come from the Lord. Every time we pray for someone we are petitioning the Lord God Almighty for them. Experiencing and learning of the fruits of my commitment to pray for others is reward that only God can ordain. The church was earnestly praying to God for Peter while he was sleeping between two soldiers bound in chains. What is your prayer for your pastor who sometimes is caught between light and darkness, feeling threatened by the chains of darkness, unable to speak the word of God?

It is time we get busy and pray for our pastoral leaders, to free them to share the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Monday, November 09, 2009

"Laity in Ministry"

Today’s reading - Isaiah 52:7 (NIV): 7 How beautiful on the mountains
  • are the feet of those who bring good news,
  • who proclaim peace,
  • who bring good tidings,
  • who proclaim salvation,
  • who say to Zion,
  • "Your God reigns!"
Before we start Chapter 12 of Acts, I wanted to share with you about serving in ministry from a laity perspective based on this scripture. You may have heard the term ‘just in time training’ well that is how I feel sometimes about how I accomplish things. I take on project work, it is my specialty. I thrive on challenging projects and learn as I go, ‘just in time’ to complete the work.

Last Friday, I felt down in the dumps, but that all changed after having a wonderful conversation with a friend. Now I am feeling joyful. I have spent the past few weeks reading and preparing to lead my Sunday School class through a 4 week session about ‘Who We are as United Methodist’. So of course I had to start with John Wesley. Sunday just past, was my first lesson plan. It was awesome to share with the class, (most all new to Methodism) how the Lord powerfully blesses laity in ministry. God has blessed lay preachers for centuries.

Since the beginning of September I have been moderating an on-line lay speaker course titled “Go Preach” and I am so proud of the six students that persevered through the course and will be coming together this Saturday to meet each other, to further their training and to present their prepared sermons. These folks feel called and I admire each of them for being willing to serve.

Lastly, tonight I finished my first ever knitting project – now don’t laugh, because I was inspired to knit a prayer shawl for our prayer shawl ministry. I was overcome with emotion tonight as our group prayed over the shawl. It has many flaws, but holds many prayers which have been prayed in advance for the person that God already knows will be the recipient. (Isnt' that kool He already knows who?)

The scripture today describes laity in ministry; the lay speakers will bring the good news in their messages, the prayer shawls will bring peace, John Wesley’s lay preachers proclaimed salvation.

And you and I say “God Reigns!”


Dorothy Drago Brucks

Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Sunday, November 08, 2009

“The Message”

Today’s reading - Acts 11:25-30 (NIV): 25Then Barnabas went to Tarsus to look for Saul, 26and when he found him, he brought him to Antioch. So for a whole year Barnabas and Saul met with the church and taught great numbers of people. The disciples were called Christians first at Antioch.

27During this time some prophets came down from Jerusalem to Antioch. 28One of them, named Agabus, stood up and through the Spirit predicted that a severe famine would spread over the entire Roman world. (This happened during the reign of Claudius.) 29The disciples, each according to his ability, decided to provide help for the brothers living in Judea. 30This they did, sending their gift to the elders by Barnabas and Saul.

These two paragraphs of scripture reveal two very important characteristics of Jesus. Jesus spent time with the people that needed Him. He helped people to know who He was, he stayed with them night and day and he taught them all they needed to know. Now Barnabas and Saul are doing the same thing; helping the people in Antioch to know more about Christ and to live a Christ-like life.

History teaches us that Antioch was the first group of people that were called Christians and they were as diverse a population as there could be. It was important for Barnabas and Saul to continue their work there. The characteristic of spending time with others to help them learn.
When this group of disciples heard of the famine that was to spread throughout the area, they came together and decided it was right to help those that would soon be in need. They gave what they could to help those in Judea. The characteristic of serving is revealed in vs. 29 – providing for others.


With the holiday season upon us very soon, we will be given multiple opportunities to spend time with our families, friends and some of us may have to choose between families. We will also be offered many opportunities to serve others less fortunate and are in need of food, finances, clothing, gifts and some of us may have to choose how much we can send to assist.

If you are a budget shopper or a spend thrift at this time of year, don’t forget to invite Christ into your life to keep you focused on His ever presence. Spend time with others teaching them about the real reason we celebrate Christmas. The message is needed and you and I are charged to share the Joy to the World. That is what Barnabas and Saul were doing.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo
www.aldersgatechurch.com

Hearing Impaired


Today’s Reading: Mark 4:9 NIV

9 Then Jesus said, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear.”

Good morning!

For years, I simply thought my husband wasn’t listening. I would say something to him, and, an hour later, he would have absolutely no idea what I was talking about. This became a huge issue, especially when we were trying to plan and coordinate our days. In the morning, if I talked about the after school schedule and we encountered some glitch in transportation or scheduling later in the day, it would set me on edge. I felt like I was talking to a brick wall and I wondered if he was choosing to ignore me. It wasn’t until we found ourselves at the doctor’s office reviewing hearing test results when we both realized that Jeff had suffered a profound hearing loss that had gone undetected for some time. I was very embarrassed for all my emotional outbursts and sorry I had not recognized the origin of the problem many years before.

My eighty-six year old mother has a great pair of hearing aids and she hates to wear them. She says that the sound is completely distorted, and that frustrates her to no end. She has been struggling to hear clearly for many years. Sometimes, I think it is easier for her not to have to listen than to try and hear the sounds around her. Quite often when I visit Mom on the weekends, she has her hearing aids off and the television volume up on blast. It is a good thing her neighbors are all deaf too. I can generally pick out the television program she is watching down the hall, before I even knock on her apartment door. Sometimes, she doesn’t even hear me knocking.

I wonder if the Father becomes frustrated when His children, who have been given ears to hear, choose not to listen. Our spiritual hearing loss is impacted when we hear but refuse to accept and follow God’s Word. People will listen to the Word for many different reasons. Some folks want to hear the Word preached in a way that makes them feel better about themselves – maybe even a little self-righteous. Others are looking for reasons to discredit the messenger. Yet, there are many who yearn to go deeper in their relationship with the Lord. Jesus spoke in words that could only be understood by those who were truly seeking Him. And there are some, who will not hear the author of life knocking at their door, even as He stands there, patiently waiting.

We do not always hear and understand God’s truth because we may not be fully ready for it. There have been many moments in my own life when I was either unwilling and/or unaware to hear and act on the message being given. I am especially thankful for my husband and mother, and for all the pastors, mentors and teachers in my life, who have never given up on me, especially when I was suffering from a profound spiritual hearing loss. None of us are exempt from the frustrations that come with a spiritual hearing deficit. We must learn to be patient with each another, knowing that the Father can and will reach us right where we are, at just the right moment in time. He will open our ears and melt our hearts so that we can obey His Word.

I will be sitting this morning in the hearing impaired section of the sanctuary. Come join me in worship today!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Saturday, November 07, 2009

"The Wrong Guy?"

Today’s reading - Acts 11:23-24 (NIV): 22News of this reached the ears of the church at Jerusalem, and they sent Barnabas to Antioch. 23When he arrived and saw the evidence of the grace of God, he was glad and encouraged them all to remain true to the Lord with all their hearts. 24He was a good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith, and a great number of people were brought to the Lord.

The good news is being preached to the Gentiles (non-Jews that did not worship God) and many are becoming believers. This was threatening to those that remained in Jerusalem. They were fearful of what they could not see or imagine or even try to listen or understand. The Jews were not happy and sent Barnabas to see just what the heck is going on.

Ah Ha, they sent the wrong guy – Barnabas. The scripture is telling us that Barnabas saw the evidence of the grace of God and was glad and encouraged them to remain true. So was he the wrong guy? Maybe for those in Jerusalem, but not for me and not for you.

The journey Barnabas made to Antioch was for God. The one God Yahweh, the same God the Jews worshipped. I can’t help but wonder why & how their hearts were so hard; so hard they could not let Love inside of them. Without love, it would be impossible to accept the Holy Spirit and to believe in Grace.

Barnabas is the man! He had the heart of an encourager! We need more encouragers in life. Is that a gift that you practice? It certainly can be!

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.

www.aldersgatechurch.com