One body

Today’s Reading: John 17:12 (NIV)

12 [Jesus said,] “While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name You gave me. None has been lost except the One doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be fulfilled.”

Good morning!

There was a sense of excitement at the soccer park yesterday, when the children completed their 2008 soccer season undefeated! You could see it on their happy faces; there was a true sense of accomplishment – of joy! Some were sad to see the soccer season end; others were happy to complete what they had set out to do. This group of children had learned how to be work as a team together, to accomplish goals. And together, they scored a lot of goals this season.

At the pizza party that followed, our granddaughter Emily could hardly wait to receive her very first trophy. The prize was sitting on a shiny white base with her name inscribed on its face. A tiny soccer player held a soccer ball high above its head and the ball would spin when you touched it. They called Emily’s name and she went to the front of the line, running into her coach’s outstretched arms. He handed her the trophy and gave her a congratulatory hug. Emily clutched the prize to her chest and turned for a picture with her coach, waving to daddy and all of us. I’ve never seen a happier child than Emily was in that moment. She came over to me, showed me her very first trophy and then she sat down on the floor and simply stared at it for the longest time. Her brother Joshua was right behind her, and he proudly displayed his trophy for all of us to see. There is something very special in the joy we feel when we learn something new, and complete the task that is before us.

Jesus knew He was about to complete the mission He had come for. How He loves His people, the ones He came to save! He knew that through His name, all who call upon Him would be protected; saved from the evil that surrounds them daily. He is their safety net, the one they would long for as they look to Him for guidance and direction each day.

One day, we will carry our life’s trophies to the throne of grace. The things that we’ve worked so hard to accomplish will be placed at the Master’s feet. For we know that our goals and the sense of accomplishment we feel is culminated only in Him. Everything that we are and all that we have belongs to our Lord Jesus Christ. He keeps us safe and secure, as we run toward the goal and finish the season together, as one team.

I pray that we will learn how to become one body in 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 banquet

Today’s Reading: John 17:10b-11 (NIV)

10b [Jesus said,] “And glory has come to me through them. 11 I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of Your name – the name You gave me – so that they may be one as we are one.”

Good morning!

It was as if I had traveled to a place far away, as I sat last night, admiring the Greek culture and pure ambiance of the Vine Café, located within the educational wing of St. Matthews United Methodist Church in Belleville, Illinois. A large room had been transformed into a beautiful village restaurant, like one might imagine experiencing in Greece. I could hear the water crashing far below the village inn, overlooking the sea. The walls of the restaurant had been painted in a rough and textured, stucco design. Large pots with flowing flowers and greenery lined the perimeter of the dining hall. Grape vines were growing overhead between lattice fencing with tiny twinkle lights everywhere. It was as if we were sitting under the stars where all of heaven was displayed for our enjoyment. Large, round gathering tables were elegantly appointed and set for dinner. Welcoming eight to each table, I couldn’t help but notice the fine china and glass water goblets brimming with ice. Suddenly, I felt quite thirsty, and found myself looking forward to the meal that was being prepared.

Seventy-five of us gathered together last night. I knew a few of the faces, for I had seen them before. A wonderful thing about a gathering like this is that even as we’ve been surrounded by those whom we may not yet know, we remain secure in the presence of like-minded hearts. There were pastors and spouses and lay people who had come from various parts of Southern Illinois and the regional St. Louis area, to pray, fellowship, share a meal, and encourage each other in matters of faith. It was Good News for so many of us, especially as we gathered together on a night like this.

The food was spectacular! I must confess that at one point, I wondered whether I had somehow been ushered into that heavenly banquet that I have often read about in Scripture. Every detail to the meal had been thoughtfully and lovingly prepared. A small, clear plate adorned with field greens, walnuts and pears, complimented by homemade strawberry dressing, was served first. Hot rolls fresh from the oven and sweet almond butter completed the delightful, festive salad. We could have stopped there, but Hank, the master chef extraordinaire, had only gotten started with his culinary creations. Large buffet trays were filled with the finest foods from fall’s harvest. We feasted upon chicken Florentine, rice pilaf, squash casserole (a rich taste treat), and green peas adorned with tiny pearl onions. I was thinking that I might end up a diabetic coma right there at the table, but I didn’t care. It was as if I had come to the banqueting table, where His banner over me is love. The empty chair to my right was not empty at all, for I knew that my Lord was there.

The dessert was unlike any other I have ever tasted. I should have passed up the homemade apple dumpling with ice cream and caramel sauce, but my resolve to watch carbohydrates and sugar intake had somehow disappeared during the evening. I’ve paid a lot of money for meals in restaurants that didn’t begin to compare with this. I was awestruck when I realized that this dinner was a gift – a free gift for all who came to the feast.

Throughout the evening, the name of Jesus Christ was lifted high. He is our most welcomed and honored guest. Christ’s holy presence was felt through the extravagant generosity we had tasted in the evening meal. We listened and conversed with each other about the importance of keeping Christ first and foremost, not only in our daily lives, and within the life blood of our churches, for He is our life blood. By the end of the evening, there was a renewed sense of unity among us. We had come together as strangers, but left as friends. This is the meaning of true fellowship within the body of Christ. It is what Jesus prayed for on the night He asked His Father to make us one in Him.

Thank you, dear Jesus, for offering Your banqueting table to all who draw near to you in faith.

Bon a petit!

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.

Deep thoughts

Today’s Reading: John 17:10a (NIV)

10a [Jesus said,] “All I have is yours, and all you have is mine.”

Good morning!

One thing I’ve learned about myself this quarter cluster is that I am NOT a deep thinker. It seems I have been born simple minded. After reading and discussing the deep thoughts of some of the most famous religious philosophers of all time, I truly believe the Lord must have given them bigger brains. I would guess that their IQ was off the charts. I grew up next door to a boy named Tommy who was truly a child genius. He would come by my house every Saturday and get his kicks by beating me at chess in three moves or less, and then he would rub it in by asking me complicated mathematical problems. Of course, he already had the answers in his head. Tommy was so smart that he seemed to not have a lot of common sense. How I wish I could have been a little more like Tommy, especially on a day like today.

I am thankful that even with my simple mind, God has given me the ability to understand and know just how much He loves me. His words to the Father are my words to Him. Jesus knew that everything He is and all that He has is the Father’s, and everything the Father is and all that He has belongs to Jesus. They share every aspect of who they are with whose they are. This is exactly how I feel about the love of my Lord.

I don’t have to understand the secrets of the universe to experience a personal and intimate relationship with the Master Creator. Christ’s brilliance is far beyond anything I could even begin to comprehend. I’m satisfied simply being in His presence each day, knowing that all that I am, and the gifts I have to offer, are given back to the One who gave them to me in the first place. I am wholly His. No matter where I go or what I do, or how much I am able to learn and achieve; all that I am I offer back to the Master. I am His.

He is mine. If there is any good in me at all, it is because of the love of Jesus Christ that courses through my veins. He is my heartbeat, my One true love, the bridegroom that I long for; He is the salvation of my soul. Jesus is my Lord and Savior. He takes my sin and covers it with His blood. Because of Christ’s love for me, I can love others through Him! I whisper His name and immediately He is near. Jesus is with me every minute of every day. I am never alone. I am loved. I will live in the light of His love forever.

Yes, I may be simple-minded; but I know that Jesus Christ loves me. I wonder if all those deep thinkers throughout human history found the One they were seeking, as they wrote their dissertations on the nature and character of God. If God is the author of all thought, then whose thoughts are we expressing? Are they ours or His? Even the most brilliant theodicy pales in stark contrast to the wonder and glory of our Lord.

It is my prayer that you will know who you are and whose you are in 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.

Soul authority

Today’s Reading: John 17:8-9 (NIV)

8 [Jesus said,] “For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me. 9 I pray for them. I am not praying to the world, but for those you have given me, for they are yours.”

Good morning!

Yesterday, the world watched as citizens from the United States lined up in mass numbers to cast a vote for their choice of Presidential candidate. I went to the polls at 6am and stood outside in the brisk, fall air, enjoying a glorious sunrise happening right before my eyes. I waited approximately ninety minutes to exercise my right to vote, along with hundreds of others, who had come for the very same purpose.

As I drove to my polling place, I was overwhelmed when I saw the crowd of people waiting in line at Faith Church. There were long lines of people standing outside, wrapping themselves around the perimeter of the church building. People were parked in the lot, on the yard next to the church, and along the sidewalk by the street. I couldn’t help but wish this were the case every Sunday morning! I wondered, “Why isn’t it like this every weekend? Where were all these people coming from?” One would think that people would want to line up for hours and wait so that they could receive Christ’s healing touch over their lives and the lives of their families. Folks should be flocking to their neighborhood churches to pray every week – every day! I’ve heard that there are Christian congregations in Mozambique where families travel for miles on foot, just to sit outside the walls of the church on Sunday and listen to the worship happening inside the church building. There is not enough room to hold everyone, and so they sit in the dirt outside the walls and worship there, all day long.

Why do we only seem to draw mass crowds of people into our churches on a Presidential election day once every four years? Christianity seems to be the best kept secret in town, and just between you and me, I don’t get it.

There is something truly comforting in the words Jesus prayed to His Father. Christ looks deep into the hearts of men, and He knows who we are and whose we are. He recognizes with certainty His flock, the sheep of His pasture. They follow Him everywhere, longing to draw even closer to their trustworthy Shepherd. Jesus prays for us, because He knows that we belong to Him.

I pray that you followed Christ yesterday to your polling place; that you sought Him out as you waited patiently in line, praying for the people who will lead our nation in the next four years, and for all those who stood around you, waiting to vote. The direction of our nation hinges upon the actions of those whom we have been elected to lead our country. Even more than this, I pray that you have made Jesus Christ your soul authority, trusting Him to lead our leaders, who will in turn, lead us.

Savior, like a Shepherd, lead us.

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.

A change of direction

Today’s Reading: John 17:6-7 (NIV)

6 [Jesus said,] “I have revealed You to those whom You gave me out of the world. They were yours; You gave them to me and they have obeyed your Word. 7 Now they know that everything You have given me comes from You.”

Good morning!

Today is the day the United States of America will elect a new President and Vice President to lead our nation in the next four years. It has been a very long campaign, and I am looking forward with eager anticipation to the end of this campaign trail. Democrats, Republicans and Independents have done their best to pass the buck and blame each other for the serious problems we face in our country and world today. Each claim they have the best solution to fix our economy, care for Americans, and save our world in the process. This morning, the American people will make its final decision by casting its vote. We are determined to elect the right people for the right positions right now. Are you ready?

It is amazing to me how history seems to repeat itself. Life was not so different when Jesus walked the earth in human flesh two thousand years ago. Times were tough then. The economy was struggling; people were starving in the streets and slavery had become a way of life. Roman rule was excruciatingly oppressive and many found themselves fighting to survive. Jesus was not like the others, He was perceived to be a great a prophet, speaking God’s Word to the people with wisdom, conviction and love. His care for the people was genuine; something this world had not experienced ever before. Many had hoped He would become a great political leader, overthrowing Roman rule and ushering in a new day, a brand new life. Jesus Christ came to save the world from its sin and reveal the heart of His Father to the world. Why couldn’t the people see Him for who He truly is?

I am convinced that there is only One who can change the direction of our world today. He is not a Democrat, a Republican or an Independent. He carries a message of hope and healing that our nation desperately needs today. His Word is not limited geographically; He is not just for Americans, but for all people everywhere. Change can and will happen IF we are willing to humble our hearts, seek God’s forgiveness for our disobedience, and commit to fully obey His Word. We must elect people whose faith guides them in every aspect of their daily lives. Freedom is not free, it comes at a great cost. Christ paid the premium for all who would believe, turn from sin, and receive Him as their Savior. Our country needs so much more than an economic bailout plan. We need the Lord.

Please pray before you vote.

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.

Giving glory to the Lord

Today’s Reading: John 17:4-5 (NIV)

4 [Jesus said,] “I glorified you on earth by finishing the work that you gave me to do. 5 So now, Father, glorify me in your own presence with the glory that I had in your presence before the world existed.”

Good morning!

How do we give glory to the Lord we love?

Most weekends are busy, but this weekend was crazy busy. Our grandchildren dressed up in colorful costumes and came to visit Granny Deb and Pa on Thursday evening. Two year old Madison was our sweet pumpkin princess; the prettiest princess ever! Eight year old Jett enjoyed jumping and running in his Batman cape and mask. He scared me half to death as I lifted a hot crock of potatoes from the stove to the counter for our dinner buffet. Jett snuck up behind me and yelled, “Boo!” Fortunately, I didn’t drop the hot dish in my hands; I’m certain it was God’s grace protecting all of us in that moment. Joshua made a fine Darth Vader; I didn’t recognize his sweet face behind the mask. Younger brother Andrew, only eighteen months old, was a Yoda cutie! His goofy smile and silent tongue seemed to fit with Yoda’s personality as he waddled back and forth across our living room in his long, brown robe. The boys posed for their pictures in front of the fireplace, each with a light saber in their hands. I’m not sure Andrew knew exactly what to make of all the fuss, but he certainly enjoyed the attention he received. Our Emily was a beautiful princess bride. She wore sparkly jewels and glitter all over her face; her hair piled on top of her head in a cute little French twist. She was a vision in her flowing white Ariel bridal gown. I love spending time with our family, especially in the fall, when we celebrate Jeff and David’s birthdays and hold our annual pumpkin party at the parsonage.

The fun didn’t stop there. On Saturday morning, Faith Church hosted its annual craft fair for the St. Charles community. I enjoy craft fairs because we celebrate the talents and creative genius of every vendor and volunteer. We sampled the cuisine of delicious homemade soups and breads, enjoying a variety sweet homemade cookies, brownies and chocolate desserts. Tiny treasures were purchased; new friendships were formed, and folks simply enjoyed spending time with each other. The craft fair is a lot of work and it takes an entire village to pull it off. Yet, I find it is always worth the extraordinary effort.

Sunday was a morning filled with Worship and Word. We celebrated Holy Communion together; it is my favorite part of worship each week. I enjoy greeting my Faith family in the receiving line after worship. I met some new folks who worshipped with us, and had the opportunity to greet friends whom I have known for many years. Our family gathered together for Sunday lunch; all four generations enjoying time together around the table and out in our back yard. We held our first Spaulding Soccer camp for the grandbabies, a brand new tradition! It was one amazing afternoon!

Christ-like love is best expressed in the way we choose to lend our time and talents for each other. I saw the risen Christ living large in so many beautiful hearts this weekend. Thank you, for giving glory and honor to the Lord by the way you choose to share His love with the world around 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.

Eternal life

Today’s Reading: John 17:3 (NIV)

3 [Jesus said,] “Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom You have sent.”

Good morning!

My husband Jeff shook his head is disbelief as he said with quiet contemplation, “Deb, I can’t believe I’m 52 today.” Time has truly flown by it seems, especially in the last few years. If we blink, we may miss a lot of what is happening around us. The four seasons come quickly now. When we were children, it seemed like an eternity before we were old enough to see out the kitchen window without a chair to boost us up, or to be able to drive the family automobile, or to finally graduate and move out of the house. All of a sudden, life seems to fly by in a whirlwind of activity. We set and make our goals; we work our way through college and find ourselves launched into our chosen career path. Some of us are still trying to graduate. Many fall in love and get married; we have children and, all of a sudden, the life cycle begins again. Without even a warning, we find ourselves standing at the nursery window of the hospital, peering into the leaded glass where we see the reflection of our newborn grandbaby for the very first time. That mirrored reflection causes us to cringe. We don’t look the way we did twenty years ago. Our bodies are older; we are wiser; yet we wonder where the time has gone. Another generation is born. Where has the time gone?

Jesus knew to whom He belonged. He focused not on his time left to live this earthly life, for the time was flying by. He knew he would go home soon, to His Father, for all eternity. More than anything else, Jesus longed for all people to know the Father, the One True God, and for the world to come to know Him, who He is, and whose He is. Once we reach our eternal home, it will be there forever. Time ceases to exist as we know it. For what comes quickly now will be forever one day soon. We will live in a place where the aging process is obsolete, our growth spurt having been completed as Christ perfects us in His grace. We will live one day in perfect relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, and in harmony with each other. This life will pass quickly; forever is forever.

Do you know where your life is going? Have you found the One you will one day return to for all eternity? Jesus is waiting for you to see Him for who He is. He wants you to meet and know the Father through Him. Are you ready to ask Jesus Christ to become Lord of your life?

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.

Amazing grace!

Today’s Reading: John 17:2 (NIV)

2 [Jesus said,] “For you granted Him authority over all people that He might give eternal life to all those you have given Him.”

Good morning!

There is something so very amazing in words that Jesus prayed. He acknowledges the gift of authority that the Father has given Him over all people, so that He might give eternal life to you and me. This is the confirmation we need to know that, without a doubt, we belong with Him. Do you know the eternal life-giver? Is He your friend?

JC Java is a place where the love of God is ever present. I couldn’t help but be moved by Katie’s poetry last night. She read her love notes to the Lord, expressing faith in words that all of us can understand. She loves her life-giver and His presence radiates in her life. Katie is one of many who have learned to express their God-given gift of creativity by sharing faith with others, through writing and music; in song and testimony. Chris played his guitar and sang his unfinished song; his work in progress. This is his gift from the Lord, and he shares it with all of us.

Dr. Steve House, Director of the Center for Christian Ministry Studies at Lindenwood University, penned a poem, an expression of his life’s work, in progress. It is his song of praise; he wrote it while backpacking in the mountains last summer. With Dr. House’s permission, I would like to share his song with you this morning. If you would like to hear it sung, come by Lindenwood’s coffeehouse next week. We are JC’s Java: Where Grace is Free and so is the Coffee.

Mountain Trails

Up, up the mountain trails of my mind

I walk the path, with burdened steps, and slow.

So mindful of the gloom I left behind;

My goal- the sun-lit summit, and the snow.

I’m not alone.

We walk together.

In deep communion;

My Friend and I.

Through every rough place,

Or sunny weather.

He is my helper,

He is my God. He is my Lord. Alt- Lord of the Sky.

I strain to conquer things that hinder me;

The pull of comfort, and of body, and of sleep.

My spirit struggles to be clean and to be free,

To reach the top, and faithfulness to keep.

Refrain

Below, the hidden valley is in shroud.

The shadows of my heart still hide the sky.

But now, in strength I step above the cloud.

And scan the wide expanse- where eagles fly.

Refrain

I stop to rest, to take in my reward,

The vista of the ever-changing earth.

This privileged gift bestowed to me by God,

This higher view that comes by my New Birth.

Refrain

With lighter steps, I cast my burdens down,

Full trusting in my God’s providing love.

With joy renewed, in freshness I race on,

And see the summit brightly- just above.

Refrain

The scene that only comes from being pure;

The pilgrim’s dream, the end of sacred strife-

And now, the awesome light and beauty sure

I see, because I give away my life.

Refrain

This life I live, I live by faith in Christ,

My Rock, my Friend, and my Redeemer he.

To serve that Love, the thing that I would do,

He’s helped me do, and so I am set free.

Refrain

Dedicated to my friend and student, Mat Welch

Another revision, 9/04/08

Another revision, 10/10/08

Another revision, 10/28/08

© Copyright 2008, Steve House

All rights reserved

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Forever more!

Today’s Reading: John 17:1 (NIV)

1 After Jesus said this, He looked toward heaven and prayed: “Father, the time has come. Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.”

Good morning!

Reunions are truly special. I spent time this weekend with some of my favorite people in this world. My mother stayed with us all weekend. Aunt Margaret and Cousin Brad joined us in St. Charles on Friday night, traveling all the way from Rockford, Illinois. We ate pot roast and drank coffee and enjoyed catching up on all the news. Early Saturday morning, Mel and Barb, and Phyllis and Joe joined us for breakfast at the parsonage. Phyllis and Joe are visiting from Alaska, and they will return home this week to Wasilla, their beautiful home nestled on the side of a mountain. We look forward to visiting with them around their kitchen table and enjoying their view real soon. Our daughter Rachel, son-in-law Dave, and grandchildren Joshua, Emily and Andrew joined us for breakfast. We prepared a virtual feast for fourteen! There were homemade pancakes, bacon and eggs, biscuits and gravy, cinnamon rolls, and designer donuts to share. Sister Pam arrived Saturday afternoon from southeast Missouri. She spent the night and made mouth-watering jambalaya for dinner, a Cajun treat! Jeff, Brad and I attended the Mizzou football game in Columbia, Missouri, where we caught up with our cousin Roger, who was in town visiting his dad from Pueblo, Colorado. On Sunday after church, Jeff’s parents stopped by to have lunch with all of us. There is simply nothing like the love of friends and family, and time spent together in sweet reunion. We are born for relationship. This is my family; the people who have invested their love in my life. How do you say thank you to the people who love and pray for you throughout your life’s journey?

At church on Sunday, I was proud to introduce my Aunt, who is also my Godmother, to my Pastor and Faith friends. She is a second mother to me, and has been there all these years. How I adore her! I don’t get to see my dear Aunt Margaret as often as I would like; and yet, having her there with me in worship was a precious moment I will treasure forever more.

Jesus knew the time had come for Him to return to His Father, whom He had served faithfully on earth. His home going was just around the corner, when He would fulfill His life’s purpose on earth. The best of who Jesus is and all He would become is completed in the loving arms of the Father. Christ’s soul desire was to glorify the Father, as the Father glorifies His Son forever more. Jesus told His disciples that He is who He is simply because of His Father’s love for Him.

As we sat around the kitchen table, I was reminded of a phrase I had heard frequently as a child. My aunts and grandmother said these words often, as we worked at my grandmother’s table, rolling pie dough and making biscuits and sharing life stories together. Someone would say something, and my aunt would finish their sentence with a precious exclamation, “Forever more!” I heard these words repeated over and over again as we gathered together this weekend. I realized that forever more is only a moment away.

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.

A little peace

Today’s Reading: John 16:33 (NIV)

33 [Jesus said] “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”

Good morning!

How much would give for a little peace? We don’t have to look far to see the trouble we’re in. Wars rage on and children continue to go to bed hungry. The weather is changing, and for those who have no home to live in, this is a dreaded time of year. The stock market continues to tumble, and many are wondering whether their life’s savings from years of sacrifice and discipline will suddenly vanish. We are bombarded in the United States with political ad campaigns. Wouldn’t you like to see our politicians take their ad campaign money and use it to make a difference in the lives of those who are suffering around us? It is not enough to hear and see their faces 24 hours a day, 7 days a week on every news show and commercial coming across the wire. They are there, every time we log in on our computers, and just in case we might forget, we are deluged with telephone calls and flyers posted on our doors, reminding us to get out and vote. We wonder if this frenzy will ever come to an end. It’s enough to make one want to withdraw into seclusion until these elections are over. No, there is very little peace to be found in the chaos we find ourselves facing this day.

I found His peace this week at JC’s Java, Lindenwood’s coffeehouse. It’s every Tuesday night, and this has quickly become my favorite night of the week. Between work and studying for a midterm exam, I was a little road weary and ready to kick back with a cup of Java and simply listen to the songs and souls of some of my new friends on campus. Holding a hot cup of hazelnut coffee in my hand, I curled up on the sofa and began to unwind, as I listened to the students read poetry, perform a little hip hope, and sing. One of the singers announced to the group, “Now this song is a hand-clapper!” I put my cup down and got ready to experience a musical treat. As the boys began to sing the chorus to “I’ll Fly Away,” students got up and started dancing with each other! All across the room, folks were clapping, singing, laughing and dancing, celebrating the wondrous peace they have found in Jesus Christ. Now this is my kind of community! Nothing outside had really changed that night; the world’s situation was still as bleak as it is this morning. But in that very room, there was something different happening all around us. I could a sense a strong current of hope emerging out of complacency, sadness and fear. This change of heart is what our world truly needs.

I wonder if the disciples danced when they heard Jesus say they would find their peace in Him. How they must have been thrilled to know that even in this world of trouble, they could take heart, because Jesus Christ has overcome the world! We need His overcoming right now! If we are to find the peace that passes all human understanding, we must find it in Jesus. Now, this is news worth dancing for! Jesus will fill you with His peace, right now, right where you are. And all you have to do is ask.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

A life puzzle worth finishing

Today’s Reading: John 16:31-32 (NIV)

31 “You believe me at last!” Jesus answered, 32 “But a time is coming, and has come, when you will be scattered, each to his own home. You will leave me all alone. Yet I am not alone, for my Father is with me.”

Good morning!

Cleaning up has its challenges, but nothing was harder than trying to put the children’s puzzles back together, at night before they went to bed. At first, it wasn’t all that difficult. But as they grew older, their 10-piece puzzles became 500-piece puzzles, and we would somehow manage to lose small pieces, scattered around the floor and under the furniture. There were times when we gave up trying to put the puzzle back together. Have you ever given up trying to find that one missing piece?

It is the same thing with the body of Christ. Every person is uniquely important – a valued and integral part of our community of faith. No one should be scattered or lost on a whim. In order to function properly, we need each and every person to be complete. Jesus knew that when they were all together, believers would be stronger, bonded together in love. Yet, there would come a time in the not so far off future when the body would be scattered, like tiny puzzle pieces on the floor. Hearts would unintentionally be lost in the fray, and there would be vital missing pieces in action.

If you have somehow found yourself separated from the body of Christ, it is important for you to know just how much we miss and need you. Your presence and all that you bring to community is vitally important to the work God has prepared for us to do. You are precious and loved by God. He created you specifically with a plan and purpose, and together, we can help each other live out His call in community. We are incomplete when you are not here. Won’t you please come back to Faith?

One day, the Lord will return and bring His scattered ones home. He will take the fragmented in faith and bind them together into one glorious body, as we worship the Lord together in Spirit and in Truth for all eternity. The Father will reveal His greatest work through the Son, as the redeemed are made perfectly whole in Jesus Christ. Now this is a life puzzle worth finishing!

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.

Straight talk

Today’s Reading: John 16:29-30 (NIV)

29 Then Jesus’ disciples said, “Now you are speaking clearly and without figures of speech. 30 Now we can see that you know all things and that you do not even need to have anyone ask you questions. This makes us believe that you come from God.”

Good morning!

Studying for philosophy class has been a real trip. I have a mid term tomorrow, and I’ve been wading through the deep waters of St. Anselm’s Proslogion, Immanuel Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason, and David Hume’s A Treatise of Human Nature. Every now and then, I resurface for air, hoping for a little straight talk. These brilliant minds think deep. My mind does not. I prefer a more simplistic approach to faith. Yet, we seem to have some commonality by sharing a sincere hunger to know and experience God in a way that explains the purpose for our human existence. Why are we here? That is question of this hour.

I had a dream last night. Researchers say that many people dream every night, but we don’t often remember our dreams. I have learned to pay close attention to the dreams that stay with me until morning. Sometimes they make no sense at all, but when they do, I treasure them for the message it brings. I was attending a prayer meeting with twelve women, and we were sitting around a table, praying for the needs of loved ones who were suffering with health-related issues. A husband slipped into the room unnoticed and stood behind his wife as she continued in prayer. Suddenly and without warning, he began to pray over her. It was as if he had been gone for a very long time, for when she looked up and saw his tear-stained face, they held each other close and cried together as if they had not seen each other in the longest time. It was the most touching moment I have ever witnessed.

I realize that this was no mere dream. It is a glimpse of what it will one day be like when the bridegroom comes for His bride. She will be waiting patiently, praying prayers of hope, seeking to save the lost, and living out her faith by word and deed. He will appear at a moment when we least expect Him, and He will scoop us up in His arms and tears of joy will stream down our faces. It will be the last tears we cry this side of heaven.

How wonderful it must have been when the greatest philosophers who ever lived met the Lord Jesus Christ, when they were finally able to see the Father’s face for the very first time. Their deep thoughts are but a tiny glimpse into the shadow of the Almighty. For what we see now is just a glimmer into the beautiful realm of what is coming.

I’m beginning to like philosophy. I think I must be crazy.

Anyone interested in a little straight talk this morning? Come and sit down with the Savior. You will be glad you did.

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.

Homecoming Joy!

Today’s Reading: John 16:28 (NIV)

28 [Jesus said,] “I came from the Father and entered the world; now I am leaving the world and going back to the Father.”

Good morning!

Yesterday was a wonderful day to renew friendships, make new friends, and enjoy family. There were two very special celebrations happening simultaneously just a few short miles from each other. Faith Church celebrated Pastor Appreciation Day by hosting an incredible covered dish dinner. Our Lindenwood friends came to celebrate, and they brought family and friends with them. Our extended families came. Pastor Kim and Ken were surrounded by members of their family. Granddaughter Taylor entertained us all with her bubbly personality and sweet disposition. She is such a cutie! Our daughter Rachel and her children and our son Benjamin, Kari and their kiddos came. Our niece Courtney, her Adam and sweet Kyndahl, along with Jeff’s sister Linda and husband Bob, and Jeff’s parents ate with us. Our son David made it just in time for dessert at the parsonage. It kind of felt a little like Christmas, having all of our grandchildren under one roof at one time. The desserts were fabulous and the kids indulged in just a little too much sugar. Fortunately, Faith Church built a strong and sturdy parsonage. It is still standing today in the afterglow of yesterday’s festivities.

The first church Jeff served as a student pastor while in college also had a huge celebration yesterday. Stephan Memorial celebrated 100 years of ministry. We were married in that church 31 years ago, and it was hard not to be there. Pastors and friends and members of the youth group that Jeff had worked with all gathered for a special worship service with our Bishop and their new superintendent. They praised and thanked God for the lives who were touched in the last 100 years through ministry and mission of this congregation. We were blessed to catch up with one two families from Stephan who became our mentors and dear friends at dinner last night. We heard delightful stories of their celebration and who they saw, and what a good time it was. We were trying to figure out just how long it had been since we had last seen Phyllis and Joe. They had traveled from Wasilla, Alaska, where they live, just to be there for the 100th anniversary homecoming. I’m not sure, but I think this may have been thirty years since we've seen Phyllis, and can I tell you, she has not changed a bit.

Do you know what it is like to pick up with someone right where you leave off? Yesterday reminded me of just how precious the family of God is. We can be separated through the years and in time, and yet, when we all get together again, it’s as if we were never apart. I truly believe this is a glimpse of how it will one day be in heaven, when we will all be together, face to face, in the physical presence of our Lord. It will be as if we have never been apart. The Stephan family impacted our lives and ministry when we were just beginning our journey. Part of who we are today is because of this church, and there are no words to express our thanks and gratitude for what they mean to us. Faith Church continues to nurture and sustain us in ministry today. We are growing together in community as we reach out to our neighborhood in the name of Jesus. How blessed we are to be part of this family called Faith.

How Jesus must have looked forward to going home to see His Father. Can you hear it in His voice as He describes His imminent homecoming? What a celebration we have to look forward to!

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 Father's Thumbprint

Today’s Reading: John 16:26-27 (NIV)

26 [Jesus said,] “In that day you will ask in my name. I am not saying that I will ask the Father on your behalf. 27 No, the Father himself loves you because you have loved me and have believed that I came from God.”

Good morning!

Radical gifts of hospitality can happen just when you least expect it. Have you ever received a special present, and it’s not even your birthday? At a class I attended yesterday, every participant there received a goody bag filled with candy and a little plastic container of Play-Doh®! How I love playing with Play-Doh®! I could tell this was going to be a great day!

We were asked to take the Play-Doh® and create a personal symbol of faith. You should have seen the artwork displayed on the table at the end of the class. There were several intricate roses, a cross, and a beautiful pitcher sitting in a basin with a towel. The creation I left was not quite as detailed as so many of the others. My Play-Doh® design was a simple thumbprint heart with a tiny cross in the middle. I made a Shepherd’s staff and placed it next to the heart.

I know that God has placed His thumbprint on my heart. In a way that only He can do, Jesus came and saved me, while I was still sinning. He loved me this much, that He would bear my sins on the cross of shame. What kind of love is this that Christ would die for me? My heart is forever changed in the light of His mercy and grace. Jesus said that the Father loves us because we love Him and believe that Jesus came from the Father. Oh, Jesus loves me, this I know! There is no greater love ever.

Has Jesus Christ captured your heart today? This morning, we celebrate the amazing gift of God’s grace as evidenced in the lives of our Pastors. Thank you, Pastors, for serving the Lord! You lead the way toward Jesus through preaching and teaching and sharing the Gospel message with us each and every day! We can see His unique thumbprint engraved upon your hearts. It is the Father's "new birth" day present given to all who believe. This is a radical gift of hospitality.

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.