Blind eyewitness

Today’s Reading: John 11:49-50 (NIV)

49 Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! 50 You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.”

Good morning!

For Joseph Caiaphas, being the Chief Priest and bottle washer at the temple had its advantages. I would imagine he grew up surrounded by affluence and wealth. Placed in charge of the temple treasury, many of the Jewish Sadducees looked to Caiaphas for the protection of their personal interests. They must have liked the job he was doing, for he served in office almost nineteen years. Caiaphas knew about Jesus of Nazareth. One could not help but listen to His amazing teaching. Caiaphas observed the growing number of faithful groupies who had left their livelihoods and families to follow this man all around Galilee. The brotherhood was becoming quite a bitter bunch; gossip and harsh words were echoing in the hallways of the temple courts. They looked to Caiaphas for a solution to this problem. Have you ever resented someone so much that you wished He were dead?

Ironically, there were many who truly believe they are keeping the letter of the law as handed down through their forefather Moses. God-fearing Jews didn’t like it one bit when Jesus suggested that if a person had lustful thoughts for another, they had already committed adultery in their hearts. Ouch! Does this mean that if you were plotting to find a way to rid yourself of a man you didn’t like, under Jesus’ teaching, would you be guilty of murder, for simply having thought about it?

Caiaphas was an eyewitness to God made man but he was blinded to the truth. When Caiaphas spoke a word of prophecy over Jesus’ life, he didn’t even realize who had given him the word. Caiaphas said, “You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.” He had absolutely no idea what the implications of this statement would mean for the world, and how one man’s death and resurrection would forever change the course of human history.

Hanging out in the city of spiritual blindness is a dangerous place to live. Like Joseph Caiaphas, we are all eyewitnesses to the Truth. How is your vision today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Are you grave digging or stone rolling?

Today’s Reading: John 11:45-47 (NIV)

45 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, put their faith in Him. 46 But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. 47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked. “Here is this man performing many miraculous signs. 48 If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.

Good morning!

What are we accomplishing? This is a great question! I’ve posed this very question in prayer daily, but especially in the last few weeks. I believe that, at some level, every human heart longs to make a lasting difference in their world. Oh, there may be a few who only seem to live for the moment, caring about their needs first and foremost, and seeking “what’s in it” for them. Yet, there are others who seem truly interested in making the world a better place for someone else. Somehow, our jealousies and insecurities push us to posture for position and power. This mindset can reroute affect many humble hearts from time to time. Do you know any ladder climbers out there? Folks who posture for position and control? This passage of Scripture speaks loudly to all of us today.

Can you imagine what the world might be like if everyone had an opportunity to see and know the power and love of Jesus Christ demonstrated right before their very eyes? Would every heart then believe? The miracle of Lazarus’ raising from death to new life was the talk of the town. If Christian believers claimed the power of Christ and began raising the dead in Jesus’ name, do you think there might be more Christian believers in the world? Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” [John 14:12]

When we share the Gospel message with others, we believe by faith that it is not just our own mere words, but the transforming power of the Holy Spirit giving life-changing hope to the lost. When a person gives their heart away to Jesus, they leave their life of sin behind and choose to move forward in faith. A lost and dead soul has now received new life in Jesus Christ! Grave stones are being opened every day as people come to know the Lord. Are you grave digging or a stone rolling?

The Gospel message did not end on the day Jesus hung on a tree. I challenge you today to ask the question, “What am I accomplishing for the kingdom of God?” Lives are being lost each day, yet Christ has spoken His power into our hearts. Life doesn’t have to end at the grave. It all begins anew in Christ. Do you know what it truly feels like to leave your grave of sin behind?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Coming out!

Today’s Reading: John 11:41-44 (NIV)

41 So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank You that you have heard me. 42 I knew that You always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that You sent me.” 43 When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

Good morning!

One morning not long ago, I walked into my kitchen and immediately smelled a deathly odor. I knew before I ever reached the goldfish bowl what I would find. Jonah John had crossed over from his earthly fishbowl into the great river of life. His spirit had obviously left the building but the earthly remains were stinking up my house! He had passed in the night and it did not take long for that rotten smell to permeate the house. While holding my breath, I buried my buddy at sea, and tried to eliminate the residual odor as best I could. It took several days for the stench to completely disappear. Once you begin to recognize what death truly smells like, it is something you will not forget.

Lazarus wasn’t just sick - he was dead. He had been in the grave for four whole days. Rot and decay had set in. Eventually, all that remained of Lazarus’ earthly life were the bones that supported his earthly frame. Jesus didn’t lay hands on Lazarus. He didn’t go into the cave where Lazarus’ body lay and perform some sort of mystical deed. Lazarus’ body was wrapped in strips of linen, lying in the cold stone tomb. His ears no longer functioned. His eyes could not see. His lips could not speak. But everything changed when Jesus called out his name. "Lazarus, come out!" The spirit spoke to flesh and Lazarus heard the Master’s voice and obeyed.

Friends, we have managed to dig our own graves filling them with our sins and failures. We’ve worked hard to hide our broken hearts, hoping no one will notice the foul stench inside. The greatest miracle in life occurs when we hear and answer the voice of Jesus as He calls us out of the grave! His spirit speaks to our flesh, and we cannot help but leave our past behind, choosing to obey and follow Him.

This miracle recorded in the book of John holds a special significance for me. Just like Jesus called Lazarus from the grave, He has called me to come out from the sin that buried my heart in guilt and shame, and begin to live anew in the light of mercy and grace. In this cave, my flesh was wasting away. Rotten to the core, no perfume, make-up, not stylish clothing could hide the decay in my heart. It took a personal call from a real Savior, my Lord Jesus Christ, to bring me out from the grave I had dug. He alone has the power to remove the strips of linen from my face.

On this, his brand new day, Lazarus took a fresh breath of new life. His spirit heard the call of Christ and he obeyed. This same miracle of new life can be yours today. Jesus Christ is calling you to come out, leave your sin behind, and follow Him. Will you hear and obey the call of Jesus Christ today? This day can be your resurrection day.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Breathless wonder

Today’s Reading: 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?”

Good morning!

Last night, I was working at the computer, taking an online test for work, when my cell phone rang. I heard the words a grandmother does not ever want to hear. “Maddie has stopped breathing; she’s been taken by ambulance – Ben is on his way to the hospital – go NOW.” I promptly failed the online exam I was taking, grabbed my shoes, husband and car keys, and off we sped to the hospital ER, wondering what in the world had happened. It was an awful ten minute moment in the car. I don’t think I took a deep breath from the time the phone call came until we arrived at the ER.

Kari’s mother was panic-stricken, and with good reason. I thought she might pass out in my arms as we grandmothers cried together in the hospital corridor. Apparently, Madison was wailing for Mommy to pick her up when she suddenly stopped breathing and fell like a limp rag into my daughter-in-law’s arms. It appeared as if Maddie might have suffered a small seizure and then there was nothing; no movement, no response. She was breathless. Nancy said they called 911 but it took an eternity for the paramedics to arrive. When fear grips us, seconds seem like an eternity. What do you do when someone you love becomes breathless?

By the time the paramedics got Maddie to the hospital, she was awake and breathing normally again. An oxygen mask helped boost her air intake. Maddie was fussy and sleepy looking, but breathing on her own. Two hours later, the ER doc gave us the good news – Maddie had experienced what pediatricians have coined as a breath holding spell. A common occurrence for many strong-willed two year olds who startle suddenly or want something that is out of their reach, they begin to cry uncontrollably, and without warning, suddenly pass out, becoming limp and lifeless. That momentary shut down gives their brain a chance to do a little remix. Maddie had not had the life-threatening seizure as we had feared and she had not choked or aspirated on the Popsicle® she had just consumed. It wasn’t a diabetic response to the sugar intake, and fortunately, Maddie had not choked. This was the best case scenario to a very frightening life event. We returned home with grateful hearts, thanking God for life and breath and the priceless gift of our granddaughter Madison.

Jesus stood at the tomb of his friend Lazarus. There was no breath – no life; only the sounds of the weeping women who had lost their brother to death’s strong grip. When Jesus commanded the men to roll away the stone, Martha feared the worst. Her brother had been breathless for four days and she was certain the foul stench would overcome them all. Jesus spoke new breath into Martha’s fainting heart when He said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

We experience life, death, and a lot of breathless moments every day. God's glory is revealed through faith, and it is that faith which we cling to for new life. Can you see the glory of God shining this morning? He reveals His amazing power to you and me in these moments of breathless wonder.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

When God cries

Today’s Reading: John 11:34-37 (NIV)

34 “Where have you laid him?” Jesus asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. 35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not He who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”

Good morning!

I wonder how Mary and Martha must have felt as they watched God cry. Their best friend and the Savior of the world stood at their side, in community, weeping holy tears of sadness. Do you think God cries today?

I believe God cries when He sees the suffering of the little children in the Condo, orphaned and left all alone, watching their parents die in the ravages of civil war and rampant-spreading disease. He hears the cries of every hungry child, wasting away in utter starvation, suffering intense physical pain. We gaze into the hollow eyes of a sick and hurting child, and know that God must be crying tears of grief. I’ve heard that when rain falls from heaven, it nourishes the land, providing our rivers and streams a rich new life. These are the tears of a broken-hearted Father, as He observes the suffering of His precious created ones. What will it take for us to learn how to willingly share our resources with each another? How many millions will have to die before we find a way to feed the hungry children in our world?

One tear falling from the Master’s face can heal a blind man’s sight, restore hearing to the deaf, and help a lame man walk again. One tear shed in grief will raise the dead to new and vibrant life. When God cries, hardened hearts melt, minds are transformed, and people learn how to love each other as Christ loves each and every of us. Nothing stays the same when God cries.

Jesus wept at the tomb of His friend, and the Jews exclaimed, “See how He loved him!” Jesus is crying out for your heart today. His tears will totally transform your life, if you are willing to stand in His holy rain. Come experience the love of Jesus Christ today. I’ve saved a seat for you at Faith Church.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

The gift of our tears

Today’s Reading: John 11:32-33 (NIV)

32 When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw Him, she fell at His feet and said, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.

Good morning!

Jesus knew what it was like to be troubled in spirit. Have you ever been troubled in spirit? There are moments when the Holy Spirit speaks to my heart, and it is all I can do to hold the tears back. I’ve learned that my tears are a gracious gift from God. The tears we shed help us express inexpressible emotions we feel and cannot capture with words. Tears overwhelm us in times of extraordinary happiness or even in moments of deep sadness and regret. Tears fall as we cry out to God for help to feed, clothe, shelter, educate and provide medical care for our brothers and sisters around the world who are struggling for survival. Our tears are reflective of the prayers we pray each day, washing over us in waves of anguish and despair, mercy and grace. Like tidal waves running against the shoreline, washing away the footprints we left behind in the sand just moments before, our tears help us move beyond grief, so that we can see evermore clearly the path that is set before us.

We cannot be in the same room with someone who is grieving loss and not respond to that pain. One would have to have a heart of stone not to care about a brother or sister who is hurting. One of my pastors stopped to inquire about the health of my children during a ten-minute break at the 2008 United Methodist General Conference. As I spoke, I noticed the tears welling up in her eyes. The compassion she felt for my family was overwhelming to me. Without uttering a word, I knew she understood my heart. Tears are confirmation of shared empathy. Often times, our tears cry out the words we simply cannot.

Jesus knew when He arrived at Bethany that the Father would give Him the authority to raise Lazarus from the dead. Yet, the Lord was moved to tears by the shared grief of his friends. Jesus was troubled in spirit, even though He could see beyond the grief. He knew how this story would end, and yet, Jesus stopped to grieve with His people. Of all the passages of Scripture written about my Lord, this particular account brings me great personal comfort. It puts a real face on a real Savior. Our Lord understands what it means to be grieved and troubled in spirit. He cries with the brokenhearted and troubled ones. Only He can dry our tears and give us His direction for a future with hope. Offer yourself today to the One who personally understands what it means to grieve. Jesus cries with us as we cry out in love for one another, even as He knows how this story will end. We are so not alone.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

When He asks you to come, will you?

Today’s Reading: John 11:28-29 (NIV)

28 And after she had said this, Martha went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.” 29 When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to Him.

Good morning!

I witnessed a living miracle on Monday afternoon during the 2008 United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Twenty-three children from Uganda’s Hope for Africa Children’s Choir walked onto center stage and began to sing, as the Holy Spirit enveloped the entire arena. Big smiles on little faces expressed thanksgiving to the Lord Jesus Christ through worship in song. They came specifically to share the Gospel message with all who gathered here. The people of the United Methodist Church rejoice with these precious children, who receive hope and help each day through the ministries of Humble School. The Humble United Methodist School in Mukono became a reality through the visioning spearheaded by Bishop Michael Watson and the people of the South Georgia Regional Conference. Partnering with the East Africa Conference and the Ugandan church, the South Georgia conference, along with United Methodists from Virginia, Kentucky and Pennsylvania and the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries, purchased land for the building of Humble School in 2001. The school opened its doors in 2004 to serve the children of this war-ravaged country and for those who had lost parents to HIV/AIDS. Here, the Hope for Africa Children’s Choir and Academy was birthed. The children’s choir will remain in the United States through July of 2008, as they offer their gift of music ministry. To learn more about the Hope for Africa Children’s Choir, please send your e-mail inquiry to infor@hopeforafricachildrenschoir.org.

There is a future with hope for the children of the world, and it all begins when one person takes a God-given vision and pursues it with passion. The Lord calls each of us to help the children of the world. When we link our hearts and hands together the vine begins to grow, and it stretches to places like Mukuno, where children are fed, sheltered and loved. They receive an education with an opportunity of one day becoming future leaders in the communities where they live. At Humble School, the children experience the love of Christ each day. His love is the love than transforms us all.

Martha went to Mary and said, “The teacher is here, and is asking for you.” Mary got up quickly and went to the Lord. When Jesus calls you to act, are you quick to respond? Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these children. Come and find out how you can be part of this life-giving mission and ministry. We look forward to meeting you this weekend at Faith Church!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

There is no space quite like Hope's place

Today’s Reading: John 11:27 (TNIV)

27 “Yes Lord,” [Martha told Jesus], “I believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”

Good morning!

When I arrived at the 2008 United Methodist Church General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas USA, I had no doubt where the Lord would have me invest my time and energy. I’ve been spending it in the prayer labyrinth located in the Exhibit Hall at the Fort Worth Convention Center. For months now, I have been preparing for this moment in time. My faith has been strengthened in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit as I walk the labyrinth each day. I find hope here.

This prayer labyrinth is constructed in the design of that found in the Chartres Cathedral near Paris, France. It is an eleven-circuit design divided into four quadrants. There are three parts in experiencing a prayer labyrinth: releasing (praise and confession), illumination (listening and receiving), and returning (home to Christ). There is only one way into the labyrinth and only one way out, which I find extremely meaningful in understanding the redemptive work of our Savior. The walk takes a pilgrim through many narrow paths, filled with many twists and turns, leading to the center. As we weave our way along the path, it is symbolic of one’s spiritual journey to the cross. I find great peace in praying the Scripture as I walk around each narrow turn. Because I am seeking His Word and will for my life and for the life of the church I love, my thoughts and words become insignificant; while His Word is all I long for. There is hope here; of this I am certain.

Around the perimeter of the prayer Labyrinth are eleven distinct stations, each display evoking a particular message of God’s grace and beauty. One of the prayer stations contains a tree, whose leaves bear the names of every annual conference around the world. It is a reminder of how we are united through Christ to be His body in the world today. Another display contains a beautiful depiction of the river of life, intertwined from many colorful fabrics. I can hear the river running as I sit on its bank to pray. There is no space quite like hope’s place.

When Jesus asked Martha what she believed, she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” As we journey together through life, it is my humble prayer that you find yourself on the path that leads to the cross. It is at the cross we find forgiveness for the sins we have committed, restoration of body, mind and spirit, and His peace that passes all human understanding. Place your hope today in the giver of new life. He is waiting for you to take your journey to the cross. Won’t you join me on a prayer walk today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Do you believe this?

Today’s Reading: John 11:24-25 (The Net Bible)

24 Martha said, “I know that he [Lazarus] will come back to life again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even if he dies, 26 and the one who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Good morning!

Yesterday, our air flight carried us to a cruising altitude of 32,000 feet. We ascended high above the storms that were pealing across the St. Louis metropolitan area. I watched, awestruck, as streaks of lightening shot past our window pane. I could feel the turbulent winds shake the aircraft as it moved beyond the clouds and into a patch of bright sunlight. And oh, what a beautiful sight it was - high above those storm clouds. The lining of the cumulonimbus cloud formations coupled with the bright sea of sunshine reminded me of a hymn I learned as a child: “There’s a land that is fairer than day and by faith we will see it afar, for the Father waits over the way to prepare us a dwelling place there. In the sweet by and by, we shall meet on that beautiful shore.” The view from my seat in that airplane was spectacular! For the very first time, it was as if I could see heaven’s shore just over the way, shining in a place where there was total Son light. I sat back and closed my eyes, and asked God if this is how it will feel to be carried away one day to heaven. I am traveling with Him through the storm clouds of this life, one sweet day to suddenly feel the arms of my Lord lift me into the land that is fairer than day. God gave me a glimpse of the eternal on that airplane, and I will never forget it as long as I live.

Martha knew that her brother would one day rise at the resurrection of the last day. Then Jesus said the words that we hold so dear: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even if he dies, and the one who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Today, we celebrate the resurrection and the life! This is the reason we have come to Fort Worth to join in the mighty chorus together! Yes, we believe that You Jesus, are the resurrection and the life, and we believe that even if we die, we live; and when we live and believe in You, we will never die! It is a gift of inexpressible mercy and grace, and it is a gift to be shared.

If you do not yet know Jesus Christ, I invite you to come and worship with me this weekend. There is a United Methodist Church waiting to greet you with open hearts, open minds and open doors. Won’t you come and join us as we celebrate the resurrection and the life today!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Rise again

Today’s Reading: John 11:21-22 (NIV)

21 “Lord,” Martha said to Jesus, “If you had been here my brother would not have died. 22 But I know that even now God will give You whatever You ask.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise again.”

Good morning!

Martha was convinced that Jesus could save her brother. Martha’s faith in Christ was stronger than the stench of death coming from outside her brother’s tomb. Do we trust the Lord enough to let Him resurrect our lives today?

This is the time when we need to experience the resurrection power of Jesus Christ! We need to understand there is more to our lives than living in the self-service lane. The creature comforts we surround ourselves with do not have the power to make us happy or bring us eternal peace of mind. We cannot buy our way into a personal relationship with the Lord, no matter how hard we try. Faith is a gift from God. Do you personally know the gift giver?

For many months now, I have been mentally preparing to attend our denomination’s General Conference. The day has finally arrived! My husband and I will stand this weekend in worship, singing praises to our Lord, alongside thousands of United Methodist Christians from around the world. Together, we will experience the resurrection power of Jesus Christ. We need the church of Jesus Christ to rise again! It is His resurrection hope that I cling to today.

Martha trusted Jesus enough to know that whatever He asked for, the Father would give Him. Jesus assured Martha that her brother would rise again! Do we trust Jesus enough to know that when He intercedes to the Father on our behalf, He will receive whatever He asks? If it is truly our desire to experience a resurrection in Jesus Christ, will it not happen here and now?

Pray for the church to rise again through the power of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

The road between life and death

Today’s Reading: John 11:13-16 (NIV)

13 Jesus had been speaking of [Lazarus] death but His disciples thought He meant natural sleep. 14 So then He told them plainly, “Lazarus is dead, 15 and for your sake I am glad I was not there, so that you may believe. But let us go to him.” 16 Then Thomas (called Didymus) said to the rest of the disciples, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.”

Good morning!

I remember the day we laid my grandfather to rest. Grandpa had lived a long life, and his last ten years were riddled with physical and emotional infirmities. Hardening of the arteries coupled with dementia made the last days of his earthly existence extraordinarily difficult for all who loved and cared for him. As my father and his siblings stood around the casket, holding hands and wiping their tear-streaked faces with handkerchiefs, I began to wonder about the mystery of life and death. I was twelve years old and my grandfather was gone. For me, death had taken on a whole new meaning. This time, it was personal.

Jesus knew his friend Lazarus had succumbed to the illness he had battled. He knew that his sisters were grieving, that the neighborhood was mourning the loss of a well-respected member of their community. Jesus realized if he went to Bethany to be with Lazarus, he would place himself in the firing line of the Pharisees who wanted to have Him arrested for blasphemy. Still, the Master went, knowing a great miracle was about to be fulfilled in the presence of the people.

At some point, all of us struggle with losing the ones we love. We wonder about the greater purpose of our days. We wonder if and how our lives might be remembered after we’re gone. Where did Lazarus go when he moved from illness into eternal rest? Will we see him again? How would his sisters survive without him physically present to help care for their needs?

Thomas recognized the Lord's great risk in returning to Bethany. He exclaimed, “Let us also go, that we may die with him.” As we begin to ask the harder questions about life and death, we become like Thomas, knowing that one day, we too will die. Do you have His assurance of salvation? Thanks to Jesus Christ, for we do not have to walk the road between life and death all by ourselves. He understands our grief when we lose the ones we love to death. We can have His assurance of salvation today: all you have to do is ask Him for it.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Sleepy seeker

Today’s Reading: John 11:11-12 (NIV)

11 After [Jesus] had said this, He went on to tell them, “Our friend Lazarus has fallen asleep; but I am going there to wake him up.” 12 His disciples replied, “Lord, if he sleeps, he will get better.”

Good morning!

Are there times when sleep does not actually make you better? I had a very busy day last Sunday, and when I arrived at home at 5:30pm, I was tired. I needed a nap, especially if I was going to continue reading the course text required before the class scheduled on Monday. So I curled up on the sofa, flipped on the television, and kicked back while half listening to a teaching sermon. No offense to the pastor who was speaking, but his powerful presentation wasn’t able to keep me awake for long. If you’ve ever spoken in worship on Sunday morning and watched some of the people half snoozing through the message you are giving, then you may understand why I feel led to publicly apologize to that teaching preacher on television. It’s not your fault, really.

I woke up an hour later and a new pastor was preaching. I had trouble following his message too. I felt a little better at first, but then, as I sat there reading and writing, I began to feel really sleepy again. I finally turned off the television, changed into my pajamas and went to bed. Jeff was watching the movie “Moses” back in the bedroom. Well, he was kind of watching it, between snores. I curled up underneath the covers and my thoughts were redirected to the days of the first Passover, as I saw the mystery of faith unfold on the big screen. I think the movie went off the air around 12:30am and I had managed to stay awake and see the whole thing. I closed my eyes and took a power nap, awaking around 4am with a nasty migraine. I don’t think my taking a nap in the early evening hours actually made me any better, even though I’m sure my body needed it. What little rest I did receive had not re-energized me the way I had hoped.

The disciples somehow thought if sick Lazarus could just take a little nap and get some sleep, he would get better. Our bodies grow weary as we carry the burdens of each day. If we could just get an extra hour of sleep, all will be well. Yet, Jesus knew the only thing that would truly heal Lazarus was for Him to go and wake him up. We need Jesus to wake us up from our slumber today! He is the only source of strength we need to move forward by faith. Will you allow Christ to wake you up? He will give you the strength that you need to do what He has called you to do.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Twelve hours of daylight

Today’s Reading: John 11:9-10 (NIV)

9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours of daylight? A man who walks by day will not stumble, for he sees by this world’s light. 10 It is when he walks by night that he stumbles, for he has no light.”

Good morning!

This is the time of year when I like to take early morning walks. The sun rises just a little earlier in the morning, and I can clearly see where I’m walking. In the subdivision where I live, the sidewalks are not very smooth. Years of wear and tear have eroded its once-level pathway, and now the sidewalk sports cracked and raised portions of concrete. If I take a walk in the dark, often times, I will catch the rubber sole of my tennis shoes on the uneven places of the sidewalk and end up tripping. It is an easy thing to do, especially for someone whose middle name is definitely not grace! I look forward to spring mornings, when the sun is up just enough so that I can see where I’m walking at 6am.

Twelve hours of daylight; eight hundred twenty minutes to see clearly where I’m going; forty-nine thousand two hundred seconds to soak up the sunlight! It sounds like a lot of time; yet, if your days are anything like mine, the hours passes quickly. I often find myself wondering where the day disappeared to. Do you ever lose track of time?

Jesus knew that His time was passing quickly. One day soon, He would no longer be a physical presence, walking along the sidewalks next to His disciples. How He wanted them to value the time they had left together in the daylight. The night was coming, when no one would be able to see Him clearly. Jesus knew they would stumble in the absence of His light. Knowledge of God’s will, His plan and purpose is essential to the continued growth of the fellowship of believers. Would there be enough daylight left to help them walk the walk without tripping?

If you find yourself stumbling around in the darkness, there is a little daylight left just for you! Open God’s holy Word today and allow Him to light your path. His Word is the only light we need to walk victoriously along the rough and cracked sidewalks of our lives. Jesus Christ is the One true light.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Walking the road

Today’s Reading: John 11:7-8 (NIV)

7 Then [Jesus] said to His disciples: “Let us go back to Judea.” 8 “But Rabbi,” the said, “a short while ago the Jews tried to stone you, and yet You are going back there?”

Good morning!

Throughout history, men and women have placed themselves in harm’s way when they believed it was for the ultimate protection of another human heart. Our military personnel demonstrate extraordinary bravery each day, as they work to bring help and hope and freedom to innocent people around the world. Missionaries have been sent into hostile environments. Some have lost their lives for the sake of taking the Gospel message to people who have not yet heard the Good News. Would you risk your own life for another if it meant that someone else might be saved?

Jesus’ disciples were justifiably worried about the safety of their Lord. They had seen the looks and demeanor of the Pharisees, who were determined to catch Jesus committing a crime. They had been chased out of several villages, running from those who were determined to stone them all. Some even bore the marks of those stones upon their bodies, as they became a human shield for the Master. They knew that the closer Jesus went to Jerusalem, the less likely they would be able to protect Him.

But Christ knew Lazarus was waiting for his miracle. The Father had given Him yet another opportunity to express His saving love for all. There was no question in Christ’s mind that He would willingly lay down His body and blood as a perfect and holy sacrifice for the sins of the world. The disciples didn’t seem to understand Christ’s mission at the time; yet, they loved Him enough to follow Him down the road.

We all face defining moments in our lives when we must choose whether to walk the road with Jesus. Are you willing to follow Him today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Wake up call

Today’s Reading: Mark 13:3-8 (NIV)

3 As Jesus was sitting on the Mount of Olives opposite the temple, Peter, James, John and Andrew asked Him privately, 4 “Tell us, when will these things happen? And what will be the sign that they are all about to be fulfilled?” 5 Jesus said “Watch out that no one deceives you. 6 Many will come in my name, claiming ‘I am he,’ and will deceive many. 7 When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, do not be alarmed. Such things must happen, but the end is still to come. 8 Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be earthquakes in various places and famines. These are the beginning of birth pains.”

Good morning!

This morning, I revisited the memory of a chilly fall day in my childhood, when the New Madrid fault decided to make a little noise in the Midwest where I lived. I was sitting on the kitchen floor, watching my mother as she stirred dinner on the stove. Our house suddenly began to quiver. The dishes in the cupboard began to rattle as the light fixtures swayed overhead. I looked at the doll baby in my arms and noticed how her porcelain eyelids kept opening and closing. At first, we didn’t realize what was happening. The movement only lasted for a minute; yet, it was a feeling I would never, ever forget. This morning, I felt the tremors once again.

An earthquake occurred early this morning, its center originating in Southern Illinois. The US geological survey reported that it measured 5.4 on the Richter scale, just one-tenth of a point under the November 9, 1968 Midwest earthquake. It reminded me of how the freight trains used to rattle past our bedroom window on the railroad tracks just behind our church parsonage in St. Clair. While I was pregnant with our son David, I would wait until the 6:00am train came through town, and the vibrations would literally roll my body off our water bed, planting my feet firmly on the shaky floorboards. This morning’s earthquake grabbed my undivided attention, as I stood there, listening for the trumpet sound. Did you sleep through the earthquake this morning?

Jesus described what the Father’s wake-up call would one day look like. Wars and famines, earthquakes and false teaching would captivate our interest, making worldwide news. Yet, these life events would somehow manage to distract our hearts and minds away from God. Sometimes, a little quake can shake us back to reality. Was this a wake up call for you?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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