Star gazer

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 13, 14, 15; Proverbs 1

Proverbs 1:7 (NIV)

7 The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge, but fools despise wisdom and discipline.

Acts 13:46-49 (NIV)

46 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the Word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles. 47 For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’” 48 When the Gentiles heard this, they were glad and honored the Word of the Lord; and all who were appointed for eternal life believed. 49 The Word of the Lord spread throughout the whole region.

Good morning!

Last night, I witnessed an amazing phenomenon with my very own eyes. Looking through the lens of a large telescope, I was able to see Comet Holmes for myself. On October 24^th, this comet brightened dramatically, by almost a million times, overnight. It quickly became the focus of astronomers worldwide. Never before has a comet appeared quite like this one. I observed the nucleus of the comet to be perfectly round, surrounded by a colorful, circular halo. The comet was bright and clear, with no visible tail. As I watched in absolute awe, Holmes’ comet appeared to be growing larger as time passed on. My New Testament professor said that a dramatic change within the comet’s size and structure might indicate a prelude to some sort of cataclysmic event. I spent last night in absolute wonder, gazing up at the clear night sky, while watching God’s amazing light show unfold.

Are you a star gazer?

Paul, Barnabas and John Mark traveled into the higher elevations of Pisidia Antioch, in Galatia, to take the Gospel message to the Jews. When they rejected their teaching, Paul preached to the Gentiles, as the Lord had instructed him to do. The stars were out in full force, and the Word of God was falling upon hungry hearts, longing to know the God who not only loves them, but saves.

Knowledge begins with a healthy fear of the Lord. We learn from our mistakes and misperceptions. For instance, when a young toddler reaches out and touches a hot stove, burning their inquisitive fingertips, they will remember the pain and pay closer attention to a loving parent who tells them, “Don’t touch!” When we experience for ourselves the struggles that come from despising wisdom and discipline, we learn, in a very real sense, what it means to gain knowledge in the fear of the Lord. The Jews refused to open their hearts to God’s Word. With blinders securely fastened about their eyes, they railed at Paul and his message of redemption. Yet, when Paul and Barnabas and John Mark offered the salvation message to the Gentiles, they jumped at the chance to experience the living Christ in their lives. It was as if an incredible phenomenon was occurring in the hearts of people everywhere. Like an exploding comet in the sky, God’s message was being transmitted and received throughout the world.

What is it like to experience the risen Christ up close and personal? Have you seen Him with your very own eyes?

God’s grace and forgiveness is extended to all people who will call upon the name of Jesus in faith and in love and raise Him high as Lord of all. The stars are out tonight, and God is seeking the hearts of all who will look up and behold His amazing, wondrous love. Are you longing to know Him even more? Do you seek to gain greater understanding of who Jesus is and what He has done for you?

Come outside and take a long look into the beautiful sky above. The hand of the Lord is upon us all. His Word is exploding around the world as we share the Gospel message with all who will hear. Will you open your heart to His Word today? Be a star gazer. Come outside and take in the amazing handiwork of the Lord!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: the amazing, phenomenal work of Jesus Christ, to save your soul, and bring you into intimate relationship with the creator of the world. God is calling to you today. Will you take time to look up and see the stars bursting overhead?

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

When the chains fall off

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 11, 12; Psalm 150

Acts 12:6-11 (NIV)

6 The 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. 7 Suddenly, 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. 8 Then 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. 9 Peter 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. 10 They 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. 11 Then 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.”

Good morning!

I love to read the amazing miracles in the book of Acts. King Herod couldn’t keep the Gospel message from spreading like wildfire. No matter who he tortured, imprisoned, or even sentenced to death, it did not stop the living, breathing Word of God. Jesus Christ was alive and well in the hearts and souls of His apostles. Even Peter found himself in awe of God’s power on the night the chains fell off his wrists.

At first, Peter thought he must be dreaming, or maybe he was seeing a vision. But when the angel appeared out of nowhere and his chains fell off, Peter walked out of that prison unharmed. The guards who were sleeping on the job, lost their lives because they could not adequately account for Peter’s mysterious and unexplained vanishing act. Only the Lord of all could do this. And Peter knew it.

What does it feel like to have the chains that keep us back suddenly fall off? If you have ever struggled with some secret sin, then maybe you understand what a miracle it is to finally be free. People struggle with terrifying addictions to caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol, prescription medications, street drugs, sex, pornography, even with gender identity. No matter how hard they try to escape, the chains of sin continue to tighten around them, keeping hearts from completely accepting the person that God created them to be. Many have tried to escape the prisons they find themselves trapped in. They cut themselves, or they eat for comfort, or sometimes stop eating all together, in an effort to cleanse their bodies and make the pain go away. They take pills and drink to escape, even for a time, the reality of their life. Do you know what it is like to feel so very unloved, dissatisfied and unhappy with yourself that you would literally change your outward appearance drastically just to gain some sort of inner peace? Can a sex change truly change the condition of a hurting heart?

Peter knew Jesus in a real and personal way. He walked with him and talked with him throughout his three year formal ministry. Peter watched Jesus suffer and die, and on the third day, Peter believed in the power of The Resurrection and The Life. He knew that God’s authority was not limited to the chains on his wrists. He had conquered death and Hell and now is risen! Jesus lives, and there was no prison wall that could hold the Good News of the Gospel back. Peter trusted Christ enough to know that no matter what obstacle he faced, God has the power to handle it. What kind of faith does it take to believe that God not only understands our pain and suffering, but that He has the power to free us from the chains we bear? Do you have the faith of Peter?

Today is All Saints Day. I would encourage you to take the things that keep you from wholeness and give them to the Lord who sees you, knows you, and who loves you. God created you with a passion and purpose for life. He can take the chains of sin and remove them once and for all. Ask Him for greater faith. You can experience new life today like you’ve never had it before. Won’t you trust God enough to let Him be Lord of your life?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: greater faith! What we cannot do for ourselves, God can do in and through us. Confess your sins and human frailties to the Lord. He understands. He has been here. And Jesus offers new life today to all who will turn to Him for hope and help. The chains will fall off when the Lord Jesus Christ removes them once and for all.

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

I need a little help from above

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 8, 9, 10

Acts 8:18-25 (NIV)

18 When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles’ hands, he offered them money 19 and said, “Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit.” 20 Peter answered, “May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the Gift of God with money.” 21 You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22 Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps He will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23 For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin.” 24 Then Simon answered, “Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me.” 25 When they had testified and proclaimed the Word of the Lord, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, preaching the Gospel in many Samaritan villages.

James 5:16 (NIV)

Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

Good morning!

It’s hard to be humble when you are spewing inside. Yesterday was a long day. I spent a good part of my work day sitting in a training session. When I arrived back to my office late in the day, I had eight hours of work waiting for me and only a couple of hours with which to accomplish it. I was pulled to help someone else complete another assignment, and I was not at all happy about it. Support staff had left for the day. There was no one else available to help out. I could feel the steam rising up in my spirit. I really wanted to have a servant’s heart, but my attitude was getting in the way. There are moments when my heart is simply not right with God, and I find myself in desperate need of the Holy Spirit power to see me through.

There is amazing joy in His Holy Spirit power! It’s the kind of power that tames the tongue, silences inappropriate thoughts floating around inside one’s head, and fills a heart full to overflowing with compassion and love for others. Holy Spirit power cannot be purchased with money. You cannot have the Holy Spirit power in your life until God gives it to you. When we receive the power of the Holy Spirit, we must choose whether to employ the gift He gives, especially when we are harboring anger and resentment in our hearts. It is not enough to say we care. His truth will reveal itself in love.

Simon was a desperate man. He practiced sorcery by working wonders and relying on astrology to guide his life. People were impressed with the magic of this man, and marveled at his counterfeit gifts. Only the Holy Spirit power could reveal the bitterness in Simon’s heart. He was held captive by the sins controlling his life. The Apostle Peter recognized the problem, through the power of the Holy Spirit. He confronted Simon with the truth. Sometimes, the truth hurts. No matter how we spin it, when God reveals our true character and we see ourselves for who we really are, there is nothing we can do except fall on our knees, repent, and seek God’s grace and forgiveness. We pray for each other and our “unhappy” attitudes. This is exactly what Simon did. He asked Peter and John to pray for him, that he would be spared the pain of not knowing the Lord.

Every morning, I seek the help of His Holy Spirit to transform my heart, removing “my” will and “my way” and replacing it with “His will” and “His way.” I cannot buy this kind of power with money. I cannot barter with the Lord for Holy Spirit power. There is only one way to receive this gift of grace, and it comes in sincere repentance through prayer. I must be willing to admit my faults to the Lord, not just in corporate prayer during Sunday worship, but in daily, holy conversation with the Lord. I need to confess my sin and ask God for His forgiveness and grace. As I pray for others, He sends His sweet Holy Spirit to cover and comfort me, again and again. The Spirit convicts my heart when I am wrong. Last night, my attitude was all wrong. That restless, uncomfortable feeling that stayed in the pit of my stomach was prayed away this morning by Holy Spirit power. I can begin a brand new day, knowing I don’t have to face the world all by myself.

Do you long for your prayers to be powerful and effective? Our hearts must first be healed. There is only One who can wash away our sin and heal us with His amazing love. If you look in the mirror this morning and find you resemble Simon the sorcerer, there is hope for you! It is time to pray – repent and seek God’s forgiveness and grace. If you ask Him, He will give you the Holy Ghost power and in that power, you will overcome.

Are you ready to receive an attitude adjustment?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: the truth to set you free! It’s time to have a holy conversation with the Lord. Repent. Ask God to forgive and heal you right now. Ask Him for His Holy Spirit power. I believe an attitude adjustment is on the way!

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

A trail of crumbs

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 6, 7; Psalm 149

Acts 6:1-4; 7 (NIV)

1 In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2 So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, “It would not be right to neglect the ministry of the Word of God in order to wait on tables. 3 Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4 and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the Word.”

7 So the Word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.

Good morning!

I stood at the front of the church Sunday morning, holding the cup of life in my hands and offering it to the people of Faith, whom I love. I couldn’t help but notice the trail of bread crumbs falling on the floor in front of my feet. The communion bread was extraordinarily fresh. Every time a piece of bread was torn from the loaf, crumbs would begin to fall to the floor. A trail of crumbs formed at the front of the sanctuary leading to the kneeling cushions in front of the altar, where grateful ones stopped to pray and offer their lives to the Lord.

Praise God for the trail of crumbs that feeds and leads us back to His living Word. Every tiny gift is like a crumb of grace, marking the path as we travel toward home. I marveled at the grace and hospitality of our conference host, Christ United Methodist Church, in Memphis, Tennessee. Cindy and I had traveled there last weekend to attend a conference for General and Jurisdictional delegates and all United Methodists, committed to the renewal and unity of the church. There couldn’t have been a more perfect place to host this meeting. No matter where you look at Christ Church, you cannot help but notice the cross of Christ. It is prevalent on every door of the facility. The door handles were fashioned into crosses. Glass cross inserts were placed in the center of every wooden door. Each window pane bore a unique cross-shaped design. Even the window trimmings, including the shades, displayed the emblem of salvation. It is truly the focal point in the worship center and sanctuary. Whenever I see the cross of Christ, I am reminded of His trail of blood, shed for you and for me. I have no doubt the message of the cross is alive and well at Christ United Methodist Church.

The disciples recognized the importance of caring for the hungry in their community. There were growing concerns about the widows, who were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. Seven men, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, were selected to offer daily food to the poor and help meet the needs of those in their community. As the Word was proclaimed and people were being fed, the Good News of Jesus Christ spread rapidly throughout the region and many hearts were converted. The living Word spreads quickly, like the incoming tide of the ocean at dusk. A virtual ripple effect, the Gospel washes over us, not only through preaching and teaching, but through random acts of kindness and charity. The food we offer to the hungry is like a trail of life-giving crumbs, leading hearts back to the Lord. No random act of kindness will ever go unnoticed, when it is offered as an act of faith in Christ. God can use every humble heart to leave a trail of grace, pointing the way toward home.

Last weekend, we were fed the living, breathing Word of God. We heard it in the spoken words of our clergy and laity. We saw it in the faces of the ushers, greeters, worship team, and staff. Needs were met with grace and in love. Every recipient of the bread and cup carries a trail of crumbs that can lead another person to the Lord. Is there a trail of grace forming behind your footsteps?

Last Friday morning, an unusual sight caught my eye. It was a chilly, fall day, and I was anxious to find a cup of hot coffee to drink. At the continental breakfast offered in the lobby of our hotel, I was searching for the coffee pot, when Cindy pointed out the tap fixtures on the wall. I’d never seen an unlimited supply of coffee free flow out of a spigot on the wall! That coffee tasted pretty good; kind of like the sweet taste of salvation received through Jesus Christ alone.

You don’t have to look far to find a trail of crumbs today. Take some time this morning and ask yourself these questions: Are you being fed? If so, are you offering life-giving food to those who surround you? Are you leaving a trail of crumbs wherever you go? Will people experience the living Word of Christ through your random acts of kindness?

This is a great day to leave a trail. Someone is hungry. Someone is searching for Truth. Someone needs the cross of Christ today. Take your God-given gift mix and offer it up to the Lord in faith. What will He do through you?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: a trail of crumbs! You don’t have to look far to follow faith. Offer your life, your gifts, and your whole heart to the Lord Jesus Christ. He will catch you up the unlimited supply in His amazing grace, and can use every humble heart to spread His Word today. Be a trail blazer, in Jesus name.

___________________________

Copyright 2007, 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.

Are your lips burning?

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: Acts 1, 2, 3

Acts 2:42-44 (NIV)

42 They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. 43 Everyone was filled with awe, and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles. 44 All the believers were together and had everything in common.

Good morning!

It was a long and rainy ride to Memphis, Tennessee last Thursday. Cindy and I enjoyed each other’s company as we sipped on fountain soda and listened intently to teaching tapes as we drove along Interstate 55. We knew we were headed toward an amazing event, and we were anxious to get there. Have you ever pondered what might be awaiting you just around the corner?

We pulled into our hotel just before dark. Our family used to travel through Memphis regularly to visit my grandparents, when they lived in Mississippi. It had been years since I had spent any time tooling around town, and Memphis has changed quite a bit since I was a child. In the dark and pouring rain, we managed to find Christ United Methodist Church, our seminar location, and then drive on to the college campus of Memphis University. We were looking for a meeting room on a packed campus, in the middle of session, in the pouring rain. Totally unfamiliar with the college, we needed the Lord’s compass to guide us. It’s a good thing we got there early, because we spent an hour wandering from building to building. It was a good night to take a walk in the rain.

We had come to join hearts and hands with brothers and sisters around the world who are members of the Confessing Movement of the United Methodist Church, and to spend the evening in worship and prayer, as we prepare ourselves for our denomination’s upcoming 2008 General Conference. The prayer service was a profound and holy moment. We sat together in a large upper room. I joined hands with people I had never personally met, but knew of through their writing and work within the United Methodist Church. I listened, as the Holy Scripture was read. We sang hymns of praise together, proclaiming the love of Christ, in a room with no other sound except the rush of a mighty wind whirling around us. In moments of silence, during Holy Communion, and with every spoken prayer, my lips were burning with Holy Spirit fire. I knew without a doubt, we were standing in the presence of Almighty God, on holy ground.

Holy moments happen when believers gather together to pray. The Holy Spirit makes its presence known in simple things, like the sound of a person’s voice, or the tears welling up inside your closed eyes. One can feel the presence and power of the Holy Spirit when a humble heart seeks repentance and restoration, forgiveness and grace. I knew the Holy Spirit was falling on me, because I could feel the touch of His flame on my lips.

Pentecost is alive and well. It is not just a story told from long ago. The fire still falls on people who gather together to pray and seek God’s face in community with one another. I am always amazed at how individual members of the body can come together, join hands, and become one in heart and mind through Christ Jesus, our risen Savior and Lord. It is a miraculous work of the Living Word in our lives. We, who are many, are one body, united in Jesus Christ. We pool our gifts and resources together and offer them up to the Lord we love. This evening was a holy and precious moment that will stay with me for the rest of my life.

Are your lips burning today? Have you experienced the gift of the Holy Spirit while joining hearts and hands with a body of believers in prayer and worship? You have a special place in the body of Christ. You belong here, and I am saving a seat for you today at Faith Church. Won’t you join me there as we experience the presence of the Lord together in worship?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: burning lips! When believers join together in one place, holding hearts and hands and raising one voice in praise, repentance and thanksgiving to Almighty God, the Holy Spirit falls down and makes us one body, united in Jesus Christ alone. Upper room moments are happening right now. Won’t you come and experience His presence in worship?

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

Going home

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: John 14, 15, 16, 17

John 14:1-6 (NIV)

1 [Jesus said,] “Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me. 2 In my Father’s house are many rooms; if it were not so, I would have told you. I am going there to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am. 4 You know the way to the place where I am going. 5 Thomas said to him, “Lord, we don’t know where you are going, so how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Good morning!

I am blessed to live in the State of Missouri. I’ve lived in various parts of Missouri my entire life, with the exception of a four year period when Jeff and I moved to Texas while he attended Southern Methodist University. One of the things I so appreciate about our state is its four distinct seasons. How I love the festive colors of fall, when the temperature drops just enough that the leaves begin to turn to shades of crimson red, buttercup yellow and bright orange. A sweet treat awaits me at home after a nice long walk at the park on a crisp fall day. There is nothing nicer than to curl up in front of the fireplace on a chilly evening. I grab one of my grandmother’s hand-quilted comforters and drape it over my lap, while holding a cup of steaming hot tea in one hand and a good book in the other. From my back door, I watch the beautiful tree-lined street fade into quiet stillness as the night settles in. It has been said, “There is no place like home.” I agree.

Home is a place we draw near to, a haven for the road weary. I have a very busy life. When I’m not at work, I’m at school, or at the library studying. When I’m not studying, I am at church, singing, praying, and enjoying the company of my Faith family. Home is a place where I can reconnect with my family and share life together. Home is a sacred space where I retreat at the end of the day to rest and relax. It is a place where I know I am welcome to simply be me. My creativity pours out at home, where I spend time making scrapbooks, cooking meals, and writing. I don’t have to worry about staying dressed up – I can put on a pair of comfy pajamas and big furry slippers and not worry about what the neighbor thinks, unless they ring my doorbell! Home is a place of peace, a welcome respite, a haven of love. What does “home” mean to you?

The disciples listened intently as Jesus talked about a house with many rooms, a special space lovingly created just for them. Jesus was going there soon, to prepare for their arrival. Thomas and Philip had questions. Their hearts were burning with emotion. Where was He going? How would they find Him? They longed to see the place that Jesus described, but wondered how they would ever find it. Thomas asked, “We don’t know where you are going, so how can we possibly know the way?” At that moment, Jesus revealed Himself in a way they had not yet experienced. He simply said, “I am the way, the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

For those who believe, Jesus is the home we long for. He is the only shelter we need. Jesus is our rest, our peace, our final destination. Through His death and resurrection, He has created a special place reserved especially for you and me. We follow Him there, looking forward to experiencing eternal peace in the light of His love. The journey home may seem long and difficult, but it will be worth it all when we see His holy face, inviting us to join Him at the banquet table.

As much as I love each season of the year, I know it will pale in comparison to that special place that Jesus has prepared just for me. He is the way home. Are you ready to go?

There is no place like our home in Christ.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: a change of season. Be aware that your life here on earth is only for awhile, but your home with the Lord is forever and ever. Jesus is the way, the truth and the everlasting life. He offers it to you and to me today. Are you ready to go home?

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

Recognizing the Judas in me

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: John 12, 13; Psalm 144

John 12:3-6 (NIV)

3 Then Mary took about a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of perfume. 4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray him, objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief, as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself to what was put into it.

Good morning!

Some lessons can only be learned the hard way. I’ve been known to take “the long way around the block” occasionally. Have you ever taken the easy way out, just to avoid the harder path? Were you honest enough to admit your “wrong turn,” and then correct it?

Judas somehow believed he had the Lord fooled. That’s an amazing thing to think about. Jesus had put Judas in charge of the disciples’ money bag, knowing he would either choose to overcome his temptation to steal, or he would fall hard into sin’s grip. Judas thought he could divert unwanted attention on him by focusing on Mary’s deed. Judas claimed that she had wasted a year’s wages on a jar of perfumed ointment, as she wiped the Lord’s feet with her hair. The money used to purchase the ointment should have been given to the poor. The pure nard she used was a costly gift, imported from the mountains of India. It cost Mary a great deal, and she willingly and lovingly gave it all to the Lord she loved. Isn’t it ironic how Judas publicly condemned Mary’s gift, while knowingly helping himself to the disciples’ discretionary fund? And he thought Jesus didn’t know?

How often do we think we can fool God while double-dipping into the temple treasury?

I remember the guilt I carried as a young mother, trying to take care of a sick baby with money I didn’t have to spend. One little hospitalization can push a young family into desperate need. We experienced a financial crisis after our son David was born. He spent ten days in the NICU of a local hospital, fighting to live. When the bills began to pour in, I felt like we were “robbing Peter to pay Paul.” I said that quite often, as I poured over the mounting stack of invoices, wondering how we would ever pay the medical providers for saving our son’s life. God trusted me to be faithful in tithing, yet I found myself pulling my tithe away to pay medical bills. I tried to justify it in my mind, believing that God would want me to pay off the indebtedness for David’s medical expenses. I was robbing God, and I knew it in my heart. He knew it too. God saw my lack of faith in His power to handle the medical bills. Had I just been willing to give Him my first fruits, He would have taken care of the rest. He promises it over and over again in His Word. But I didn’t trust Him enough, and that little mistake took me down a road I did not want to travel.

We cannot rob God and expect to get away with it. No matter what the reason, He knows our hearts better than we know ourselves. We can justify almost anything and make it palatable, but when we knowingly choose not to give Him our very best, that guilt can be overwhelming. I got really angry with God for something that He was clearly not responsible for. I should have been angry with myself for not trusting His Word completely. It was my attitude that needed realignment.

Thank God there is mercy and grace at the foot of the cross for you and for me.

Even though Jesus knew Judas’ heart, He chose to wash his feet that night along with the other disciples. Christ died to save the Judas in me. If you’ve ever robbed God, please know that Jesus Christ offers His grace and forgiveness when you choose to confess, repent, and turn around.

I have learned God’s blessings come with obedience. Help me Lord, to trust you more and more each day.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: a conscience that convicts! God gives us free will to choose whether to obey or disobey Him. If you are feeling guilty this morning because you have not been giving Him your very best, it is not too late to turn around. Ask Him for forgiveness. Do it now.

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

Raising the dead

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: John 10, 11; Psalm 143

John 11:38-40 (NIV)

38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39 “Take away the stone,” he said. “But, Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

Psalm 143:8(NIV)

8 Let the morning bring the Word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I lift up my soul.

Good morning!

How much faith does it take to believe Jesus Christ has the power to bring the dead back to life?

I’ve often wondered what Martha must have thought as she watched her brother Lazarus emerge from the grave all wrapped up in strips of linen, his face still covered with a burial cloth. He had been dead for four days when Jesus arrived in Bethany. Martha knew in her spirit that if Jesus had just been there, Lazarus would not have died. When Jesus asked Martha if she believed, Martha confessed, “Yes, Lord, I believe you are the Christ, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” (John 11:27 NIV). Martha knew the Lord had full authority. She had seen first hand what His living Word had accomplished in the life of her family, and in her heart, particularly. He was more than just the Savior of the world; Jesus Christ was her friend.

It must be a part of the human condition to give up on our brothers so easily. We watch in despair as the people we love suffer with uncontrollable addictions and diseases. We offer up our meager prayers, asking God to heal them, but not really trusting that He can. Our children wander away from faith, placing their ambitions and hopes in a material world. Too preoccupied for matters of faith, they place all their efforts into the acquisition of things. A virtual consumer’s market, the need and greed for money that can buy lots of stuff that will not satisfy the soul, is the sad condition of our culture. They may know of the Savior and, like Martha, even profess that He is the Christ, the son of the living God. Yet, they do not have enough faith to place their hearts in His healing hand. Have you ever watched someone you love walk the path toward destruction, completely self-absorbed and unaware of where they are headed?

Whenever we lift our family and friends in prayer, we utter the words of Mary and Martha, “Lord, the one you love is sick.” Jesus came to heal the sick and suffering. He came to restore new life to those who are dead in sin. There are times when we must walk through seasons of sickness, in order to better appreciate God’s healing touch in our lives. As a mother and grandmother, I have learned that I can take my babies to church, but I cannot make them believe. I can teach them the difference between right and what is wrong, but I cannot make them choose the right path. I can point them to new life in Christ, but only they will choose whether to follow Him. I can pray for them, but I cannot control their ways.

There was a season when I, like Lazarus, found myself covered in grave clothes. Had it not been for the faithful prayers of my family, I would have died in my sin. When Christ came for me, He rolled away the stone and offered a brand new life through His nail-scarred hand. Miracles still happen! I am proof positive that God can bring the dead back to life. If you are worried about your brother’s soul, stand upon the Word of God and claim healing over his life in the name of Jesus.

Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?” Christ has the power and authority to perform a miracle in the life of the one you love. If Jesus can reach down into the pit and save someone like me, I know He has the power to save your loved one too.

How much faith does it take to believe Jesus Christ has the power to bring the dead back to life?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: a miracle! Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live even though he dies, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

Blinded by the light

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: John 8, 9: Psalm 141

John 9:39-41 (NIV)

39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.” 40 Some Pharisees who were with Him heard Him say this and asked, “What? Are we blind too?” 41 Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.”

Psalm 141:8 (NIV)

8 But my eyes are fixed on you, O Sovereign Lord; in you I take refuge – do not give me over to death.

Good morning!

I have struggled with nearsightedness and acute astigmatism most of my life. I started wearing glasses at eight years of age, and purchased my first set of contact lenses when I turned sixteen. I would love to have clearer vision. I’m a chicken when it comes to the notion of pursuing corrective lens surgery. I’m not sure I would be the best candidate or the best patient. Still, I think about it occasionally, but especially at this time of year, when allergies and pollens in the air really irritate my eyes.

I am blessed to be able to see at all. The American Foundation for the Blind states there are approximately 10 million Americans who suffer from blindness or who are categorized as visually impaired persons. Without the benefit of corrective lenses, I am considered one of 10 million. Do you struggle to see clearly?

When I read Scripture and pray early in the morning, I discover my vision is not as clear as I would like it to be. Sometimes I find myself leaning just a little bit closer to see the words floating across my computer screen. God uses these visual limitations to remind me that even in my weakness, He is strong. I rely on the Lord to be my vision, my hope, and my only light for daily living. Someday, I believe Christ will correct my vision once and for all. Until then, I wait patiently, gazing into the dimly lit mirror.

It is a scary experience to be blinded by intense sunlight while driving your automobile along the highway. Sometimes the light is so bright it makes it virtually impossible to see what is right in front of you. I imagine the Pharisees were feeling overwhelmed, trying to see the Savior of the World for who He is. They were asking lots of good questions, and yet, Christ’s answers made no logical sense to them. They were maneuvering along the road of life, completely blinded by Christ’s soul-piercing light. Have you ever been so self-absorbed, that you couldn’t see the Lord, even if He were standing right in front of you?

Jesus said, “If you were blind, you would not be guilty of sin; but now that you claim you can see, your guilt remains.” How I long to stand before the Lord today guilt-free and with His visual clarity guiding my life. When God removes the blinders from our eyes, He holds us to a higher standard because we claim we can see Him more clearly. So why do we choose to behave like spoiled little children, self-centered and self-absorbed, who have no light with which to see?

Thank God there is grace and mercy for all at the foot of the cross. Choosing to walk by faith rather than relying on our skewed vision, is a mark of true discipleship. Jesus has the power not only to heal our nearsightedness, but to cover the guilt we carry in our hearts. If you find you are blinded by the light today, stop and ask the Lord of life to reveal Himself to you through the eyes of faith. He will do it, if you just ask.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: eyes of faith to see the Lord clearly! Trust the light of life to cover your sin, heal your heart, and lead you home.

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.

Living water

Grand Sweep Daily Reading: John 4, 5; Psalm 140

John 4:39-42 (NIV)

39 Many of the Samaritans from that town believed in [Jesus] because of the woman’s testimony. “He told me everything I ever did.” 40 So when the Samaritans came to Him, they urged Him to stay with them, and He stayed two days. 41 And because of His words, many more became believers. 42 They said to the woman, “We no longer believe just because of what you said; now we have heard for ourselves, and we know that this man really is the Savior of the world.”

Good morning!

How important is our testimony? Does it really matter what we say and do?

When Jesus stopped at Jacob’s well and asked the Samaritan woman for a drink, can you imagine her surprise? She had come to the well, at high noon, to draw water alone. This woman had a reputation in her community, and it was far easier to sneak out in the heat of day alone and draw water to drink knowing she would not have to face the stares and gossip of her cruel neighbors. She thought she was off the hook when she saw Jesus approach. Jews and Samaritans never speak. In fact, they would go way out of their way to avoid having to interact with each other. So why was this man, a practicing Jew, asking her for a drink? How could He not know who she was? The woman’s life story read like the pages of a lusty romance novel. Could He not see the torment and fear in her eyes?

All she ever wanted was to be loved and cared for. This woman had given her heart in marriage five times. With every failed attempt, she was reminded of her inadequacies. She felt so unloved and alone that it drove her to resigning herself to a live-in arrangement with a man whom she knew would eventually leave her one day. The guilt she carried was heavier than the jar of water she hoisted over her shoulder. She had no real friends. Her family had written her off long ago. No one even bothered to look at her and listen to her heart. What lasting difference would this woman’s testimony make in this town?

When Jesus shows up, it is never a mere coincidence. Even His disciples could not understand why their Lord ventured over to the Samaritan woman, and boldly asked her for a drink of water. Jesus Christ saw so much more. He not only knew this woman’s story, He knew her need. Jesus had come to save women and men just like the Samaritan. He offered her a drink of living water, the water that would never leave her thirsting for real love anymore. He offered her a new way of life, and this precious child of God, so lost and alone, recognized the real deal when she saw Him and immediately accepted Jesus Christ at His Word.

In that extraordinary moment, amid the speculation and cynicism of both Jews and Samaritans, a life was forever changed by the Lord of love. It was so apparent, that her words somehow cut through the judgment and harsh criticism of others. She proclaimed to her neighbors without fear, “Come, and meet a man who told me everything I have ever done. Could He be the Christ?” The miracle was not in the curiosity of the community that came out to meet Christ – the miracle was that her neighbors paid this woman any attention at all. Something remarkable happened at Jacob’s well. Fear turned to faith. Real love shattered distrust. Living water was offered and accepted by a people whose pagan culture knew very little of the Great I Am.

If you ever find yourself doubting whether God can use your testimony to change the heart of another human soul, remember the Samaritan woman who stood at the well alone, in seclusion and shame. Everything changes when Jesus Christ offers you a drink of living water.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Pray for: a thirst quencher! No matter where you’ve been or what you’ve done, Jesus Christ knows your story, and He loves you enough that He carried your sin on the cross to give you new life in Him. Won’t you take a drink of living water today?

___________________________

© Copyright 2007, 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.