Perfect Peace

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 26:3 KJV

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Good morning!

This was not exactly the way I wanted to begin this day. My appointment was located in the city at 7:30am. The doctor’s office suggested I be there fifteen minutes early. So, Jeff and I left home an hour before the scheduled procedures to avoid the Monday morning rush. After two back-to-back tests, somewhat lengthy and painful, I emerged from the scanner two hours later, thankful it was over. If you’ve ever had to lie completely still in a magnetic resonance imaging machine for a long period of time, then you have some idea of how this morning unfolded for me.

It is not easy for me to hold perfectly still, even on a good day. My flesh fights me every step of the way. Take a minute and try this little experiment and see how well you do. Sit down on your sofa, or, lie down across your bed and try not to move for one whole minute. This means, no flinching or twitching – do not move a muscle. Are you able to immediately relax so totally, completely still, that your breathing becomes shallow and steady right away? Could you fall asleep without so much as a whisper? How difficult is it for you to completely unwind and relax?

It was imperative that I lie completely still for both procedures. I became instantly aware of my breathing. There is really only one thing that completely calms my heart when I find myself in need of immediate rest. I recite Scripture in my mind. God’s Word, cradled inside my heart, becomes a life line in moments just like these. I remembered Christ’s ability to sleep through a horrific storm in a boat being ripped apart by the large waves and jagged rocks on the Galilean Lake. His peace level was baffling to His disciples, who were fighting for their lives that night. When Jesus stood, he raised His hand to the waters and said, “Peace, be still.” Suddenly, the waves and clouds disappeared as the lake water returned to a serene, calm state. When Jesus spoke, the wind and waves immediately and obediently responded to His call. Jesus Christ is the only thing I know that can calm our every fear. One thought of Jesus’ mercy and love for the sin sick and lost can stop the raging storms inside and bring a peace that is simply indescribable in human words.

The prophet Isaiah knew all about raging storms. Yet, he found perfect peace in the Lord, because He trusts Him completely. Sometimes I wonder if I’m trusting God completely for His peace in the storms of life. Lying in that tiny tube today, I knew His peace would be my source of strength. I could withstand the muscle cramps because I trust Jesus enough to give Him my pain. I knew that my mind, completely focused on the Lord, would be all I would need to get through the procedures without flinching.

The MRI tech congratulated me on being so still during each of the procedures. They got their pictures and I got to go home, full of Christ’s peace, knowing, no matter what my circumstance, He will see me through. I know that Jesus Christ will see you through whatever you are facing today. Relax! Take a minute and give Him all your cares. He will keep your heart in perfect peace as you focus your mind upon Him, because you can trust the Lord with your life.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles.

Losing track of time?

Today’s Reading: Psalm 62:8 NIV

Trust in Him at all times, O people; pour out your hearts to Him, for God is our refuge.

Good morning!

When my telephone rang early this morning, its shrill sound resonated throughout the house! I hurried to the kitchen to grab the nearest portable phone from its stand, hoping it would not wake our guests. When I answered, my husband was on the other end of the receiver, calling from the church. “Do you know what time it really is?” he said, in a rather frantic voice. At first, I thought we may have set our clocks wrong the night before. With the change from daylight savings time to standard time, we rolled our clocks back one hour before we went to bed. Apparently, some of our clocks were supposed to automatically change at 2am, but for some reason, they did not. When Jeff arrived at church, he was relying on a clock that had not yet changed from daylight savings to standard time, and was alarmed when he realized it was not the correct time, as he first thought. Have you ever lost track of time?

Our culture teaches us to observe the time. We track it with our birthdays and blackberry calendars, and we wear the time on our wrists. We watch the seconds tick away on our computer screens, and on the dash boards of our automobiles, scurrying to our next scheduled appointment, praying to arrive on time. We see the time change in the brilliance of nature with every season; it is as if we are afraid, somehow, that time will slip away from us and we will miss out on something of great value. We are often reminded that our biological clocks are ticking, especially at our annual physicals; and we wonder if there will be enough time left to do the things we really want to do when our bodies have worn down. Will there be time to do the things we really want to do when we are no longer obligated to full-time work and/or study? No one wants to waste a single minute of each day. How do you spend the time you’ve been given?

It is so easy to lose track of the time. Where has it gone? Will we waste time chasing after the minutes that have already passed us by, somehow wishing we could go back and change that one foolish word said in a fit of anger, or one poor choice that leads to a lifetime of remorse. What will we do with the time we have left? How many minutes are ticking away on your time clock today? Do you really know what time it is?

Every minute is precious. All time is held in the palm of the Master’s hand. We spend our days the way we choose and it is His priceless gift to you and me. Will we waste the time we’ve been given or gratefully return it to the time giver? The Psalmist reminds us that we must learn to trust the Lord at all times. When we know Him, His gift of time becomes extraordinary and priceless. We stop taking the time we have been given for granted and begin using it to honor and glorify the One who holds all time in the palm of His hand. We begin to let go of our incessant need to hold fast to our time trackers, and simply live it out in a manner that is pleasing to Him. When we invest our time in loving each other the way Jesus loves us, our days are filled with great joy; our names forever recorded in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

This morning, the sun was up over our parsonage at 6am Central Standard Time. There is still time for an early morning walk before worship begins and I intend to take it. Do not miss a minute with your maker. Trust Him today with the time of your life. He will give you exactly what you need to make the most of each new day. Hand Him your whole heart today, for the Lord God Almighty is your only refuge.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles.

"Astonished"

Today's reading - Acts 10:44-48 (NIV): 44While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit came on all who heard the message. 45The circumcised believers who had come with Peter were astonished that the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out even on the Gentiles. 46For they heard them speaking in tongues and praising God.
Then Peter said, 47"Can anyone keep these people from being baptized with water? They have received the Holy Spirit just as we have." 48So he ordered that they be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ. Then they asked Peter to stay with them for a few days.

When friends at church say they haven’t seen me lately, I tell them to look up, that I am normally perched upstairs at the media desk. I lead the media worship team and enjoy developing graphics & visual worship elements to enhance the theme of worship and message that our pastor has chosen.

What I like most is watching the Holy Spirit at work through our pastors, or the singers or the worshippers. This scripture tells us that the believers with Peters were astonished the Holy Spirit poured out even on these gentiles. Some Sunday’s I am in awe and astonished seeing the Lord at work! The spirit is working in hearts, for prayer and tears and smiles and nods of heads all occur each week.

From my view upstairs, I see the newness of life in every age group. When the young man about 12 years of age in the ‘traditional’ service goes to pray at the altar and then brings his offering to the table I am witnessing powerful work.

When the Holy Spirit is poured out upon people, they are changed, and can’t be kept hidden. Holy Spirit people are the light of the world, the messenger of the great ‘I Am’ and the ones entrusted with speaking in whatever tongue that is needed to exclaim salvation is ours because Jesus Saves.

Step away from the worship service sometime, or climb up into the balcony and just watch how God works through all elements of worship. Know every aspect of the service is anointed, don’t rely on the sermon alone to please you, or the hymn or song that is sung, or the scripture passage that was chosen. Ask for and rely upon the work and power of the Holy Spirit to anoint your pastor and your congregation so that all that come will be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ.

Dorothy D. Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, MO.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

That one missing piece

Today’s Reading: Jeremiah 29:11-14a NIV

11 “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. 12 Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. 14 I will be found by you,” declares the Lord, “and will bring you back from captivity.”

Good morning!

When our youngest son David was living at home, we used to spend hours together putting puzzles together on our kitchen table. Whenever I work a puzzle, I think about all the time we hovered at the table, searching for that one missing piece. Have you ever felt that way about your life? Have you ever wondered why some things happen the way they do? Is there one missing piece you are struggling to find to complete your life’s puzzle?

Sometimes, God’s plan for our lives and our own life plans do not seem to match up. Our David had a lot of health issues to overcome in the first few hours of his young life. This was not a part of my pregnancy plan. I wanted David to be born healthy and strong. Yet, he became very strong amid the physical adversities he endured. We do not always realize that our struggles will give us the spiritual muscle we need to survive and thrive in a world that doesn’t always listen. I admire our son’s tenacity in the midst of adversity today. I hate it when he struggles with his health, but I love his inner strength and endurance. This can only come through the resilience that is borne from pain.

The prophet Jeremiah spent forty years in the wilderness of Judah, beating his head up against a brick wall, trying to get the people to listen and repent. He was obedient to God’s call, even in the midst of his own personal suffering. Trapped within the captivity of human complacency, tormented and rejected by his neighbors, friends and family, Jeremiah never gave up on God’s plan for his life. His future and hope was planted in God’s Word alone. From a human perspective, I’m sure it must have been hard for Jeremiah to see. Yet, he knew if he continued to call on the Lord and pray with a sincere heart, that God would hear and answer his cries for help. Only God can bring you out of the personal captivity you find yourself in today, and into His eternal provision.

Lately, I’ve been feeling a little like a captive under house arrest, waiting rather impatiently for my body to mend after surgery. When I look at my life’s puzzle, I realize that God’s plan for my life and my own personal plans do not seem to match. I realize the Lord will give me the strength I need for each new day, and this puzzle will fit together beautifully when I am able to fully let go and trust Him completely for my future and hope. He is strengthening my faith muscle today. This finished work of art may not look the way I had imagined it, but in the Master Artist’s eyes, it will be perfect.

This is my prayer for today – to let go completely and trust God to complete His work in me in whatever shape and form He wishes. Will you join me in praying for God's will to be done?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles.

“Assignment”

Today's reading - Acts 10:42-43 (NIV): 42He commanded us to preach to the people and to testify that he is the one whom God appointed as judge of the living and the dead. 43All the prophets testify about him that everyone who believes in him receives forgiveness of sins through his name."

Peter has been speaking truth in the verses we have covered over the past few days and including today’s selection. Here, Peter is telling the disciples that God appointed Jesus Christ as judge and they are to preach this message to the people. They must be wondering how this message would be received by those who were not yet believers and rightly so. This message was not new, it had traveled ahead of them and stories had been told and some had faced much opposition, persecution and even death.

I was raised to think for myself but also to respect authority; an example would be to respect the decisions of the leadership within the congregation of which I am a member. I may disagree with a decision or program that is new or changed, but I should respect those in leadership roles that were willing to make the tough decisions. The disciples know that God had been speaking to and working with Peter preparing him for their new assignments and by listening they are beginning to respect him as a result.

It is human nature to judge what we think should or should not be done, whether something is right or wrong or form personal opinions of others when we don’t know the total picture. Here the disciples are being told Jesus is the ultimate judge anointed by God. Their assignment is to preach it! Jesus will forgive sins but if people don’t know that they have no opportunity to believe it. Spreading the good news begins with this assignment, one spoken by God to Peter.

Looking forward to my assignment.

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

“Fall”

Today's reading Acts 10:40-41 (NIV): 40 but God raised him from the dead on the third day and caused him to be seen. 41He was not seen by all the people, but by witnesses whom God had already chosen—by us who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead.

The fall leaves are flying around Raintree Street with fury. They were so pretty for a few days and now they are wet, in our gutters and on the ground. That means Saturday we have work to do. When I pulled into our drive way this afternoon and saw the overflowing gutters I just cringed.

Fall is bitter sweet in my opinion as I love the aroma’s, the memories of marching band festivals and opportunities to snap a beautiful photo of nature vs. the huge leaf piles and clean up work that has to take place. Seems like the leaves never end and they are everywhere.

The same is true with God; He is everywhere and He never ends! Jesus also had bittersweet moments. The joys of seeing people believe in Him as their savior vs. the bitterness He must have tasted while on the cross. People flocked to Jesus all in a fury and He experienced storms on the Sea of Galilee to the soldiers hunt in the Garden of Gethsemane.

The disciples had many memories of his fall, just as I do for the leaves that have fallen. Jesus took the fall for us at the end of a powerful ministry that changed the world forever. The disciples must have cringed as they faced the empty tomb. Who is going to clean up this mess on the roadways in Jerusalem they may have been asking each other. Some of them saw only misery ahead rather than remembering the sweetness of His presence.

Then there were those that God chose to see Him - the beautiful, colorful risen savior that took the fall for us. Perhaps this weekend as you clean out your gutters the leaves will remind you of the wetness and dampness Jesus took away when he died. He left his chosen ones the sight to see and understand. He has chosen us to see and experience Him.

What do you see when you look at the fallen? (Leaves or Jesus either one)


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

“One Verse”

Today’s reading - Acts 10:39 (NIV): 39"We are witnesses of everything he did in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They killed him by hanging him on a tree,

As I was preparing this evening to read the scripture and begin to write this devotional, the very first verse in the next section took my breath away. As I kept reading to select the passage to write about, I kept going back to only one verse. My breath was quickened again with the next reading.

Although the second sentence stopped me in my tracks, I believe that I am to focus on ‘we are witnesses of everything he did’. Imagine, you and I as witnesses to all the good that is done in Jesus’ name in the world today. Everything that the Lord does in the universe, you and I are witnesses to! This is powerful, because the scripture can speak to us and be valuable in our lifetime.

If the Lord allows me to be a witness to all of His goodness that is in my sphere of influence, then I have a debt of gratitude to offer to Jesus Christ. Gratitude that multiplies 10 fold in me deepening and growing a burning desire to tell people about the goodness that Jesus offers us.

I know that the Lord lives and works in my life, but I also know that I fall short of sharing that witness with others. I am going to begin to pray about that. I am going to begin to ask God to use me to share the love of Jesus with someone else. I am going to do this because ‘they killed him by hanging him on a tree.’

What have you witnessed today that you need to tell someone?

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

"Rejoicing!"

Today’s reading - Acts 10:34-38 (NIV): 34Then Peter began to speak: "I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism 35but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right. 36You know the message God sent to the people of Israel, telling the good news of peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all. 37You know what has happened throughout Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached— 38how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.

The devil does have power. There is plenty of evil in this world, way too much actually. Christian believers can Rejoice however, for God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit power and sent him into the world to conquer evil. We can Rejoice!

The grave has been conquered and the power of the risen Lord fights evil on our behalf. This good news is for ALL – God sent His message to all people of Israel, missing no one. We are challenged today to spread the gospel to all so that they may hear it. We must Rejoice in knowing the message did not die or fizzle out in those first few decades and the message is still clear and we are the messengers. We must take it to all to hear, Rejoicing as we go.


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

"True Blessing"

Today's reading - Acts 10:30-33 (NIV): 30Cornelius answered: "Four days ago I was in my house praying at this hour, at three in the afternoon. Suddenly a man in shining clothes stood before me 31and said, 'Cornelius, God has heard your prayer and remembered your gifts to the poor. 32Send to Joppa for Simon who is called Peter. He is a guest in the home of Simon the tanner, who lives by the sea.' 33So I sent for you immediately, and it was good of you to come. Now we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us."

Times are changing in Israel and so are the minds and attitudes of people, including Cornelius and his family. For Cornelius to even believe let alone say “we are all here in the presence of God to listen to everything the Lord has commanded you to tell us” is a huge change.

Having faith means going beyond beliefs and ideas and rituals, it means actively living life as God directs. It means to respond to God’s calling to live as a Christ like servant. We must seek to be in the presence of God every waking moment. Is that even humanly possible? As we seek the Lord let us keep praising Him, let us not leave Him, let us put our faith into action and discover the true blessing of the presence of God.

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

“Emmanuel, God is with us”

Today’s reading - Acts 10:23b -29 (NIV): The next day Peter started out with them, and some of the brothers from Joppa went along. 24The following day he arrived in Caesarea. Cornelius was expecting them and had called together his relatives and close friends. 25As Peter entered the house, Cornelius met him and fell at his feet in reverence. 26But Peter made him get up. "Stand up," he said, "I am only a man myself."

27Talking with him, Peter went inside and found a large gathering of people. 28He said to them: "You are well aware that it is against our law for a Jew to associate with a Gentile or visit him. But God has shown me that I should not call any man impure or unclean. 29So when I was sent for, I came without raising any objection. May I ask why you sent for me?"

I love the way Peter follows God. He understands Jewish law, but the wisdom given to him through the Holy Spirit continues to lead him in his decision making. He is not afraid of what might happen because of going into the home of the gentiles; instead he talks with them, explaining exactly what God revealed to him. God is with him!

It is good for all of us to have moments of confidence like Peter had because we are each faced with many temptations in life, such as greed, envy or jealousy. We are inclined to spend more emotional energy on struggles rather than leaning on the everlasting God. Peter knows why he is there yet he asks them if they know. As a believer, I know that truth and righteousness is within me, but I must ask the spirit in to make it come alive. Peter knows and soon others will also. Emmanuel, God is with us.


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

"Allowing the Lord In"

Today's reading - Acts 10:17-23 (NIV): 17While Peter was wondering about the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius found out where Simon's house was and stopped at the gate.

18They called out, asking if Simon who was known as Peter was staying there.

19While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Simon, three men are looking for you. 20So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them."

21Peter went down and said to the men, "I'm the one you're looking for. Why have you come?"

22The men replied, "We have come from Cornelius the centurion. He is a righteous and God-fearing man, who is respected by all the Jewish people. A holy angel told him to have you come to his house so that he could hear what you have to say." 23Then Peter invited the men into the house to be his guests.

Peter has continued meditating and in response the Spirit speaks to him again. God has revealed to him that the three men are coming and he is not to hesitate to meet them. Peter’s act of piety through prayer, meditation and listening have taken him into a deeper relationship with God. Peter is responding to God’s direction.

When we hear God’s direction sometimes it is loud and clear and other times when we busy ourselves, we fail to hear His direction. Each time we are obedient to the message God provides us, we are taking another step in our discipleship walk and we learn more about God. By listening, Peter learned God had a mission for him and he openly accepted it and invited the men in.

I am going to do my best to listen this weekend to see when I need to open the door and let God in.

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

“Approach God”

Acts 10:9-16 (NIV) 9About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11He saw heaven opened and something like a large sheet being let down to earth by its four corners. 12It contained all kinds of four-footed animals, as well as reptiles of the earth and birds of the air.

13Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat."

14"Surely not, Lord!" Peter replied. "I have never eaten anything impure or unclean."

15The voice spoke to him a second time, "Do not call anything impure that God has made clean."
16This happened three times, and immediately the sheet was taken back to heaven.

We have all heard the phrase ‘third time is a charm” and I wonder if it might have originated from this text? I doubt it, but I had to say it anyway.

What captures me in this scripture is that Peter had gone to the roof to pray. He was not ashamed to leave the company he was with to spend time with God. He had spent time with Jesus and he knew that prayer was vital to life. Jesus set the example.

There have been times when I pray that I just stop right in the middle and sit there thinking, experiencing and in awe of God. Perhaps this is a trance similar to what Peter experienced. A time to soak in the entirety God offers. Taking time to hear God speak and give direction dedicating oneself to God. For me to give up my own desires and to not question God takes practice on my part. I must do this over and over and experience His richness and fullness in order to grow my faith. I must step away from those around me as Peter did, and go, specifically to pray.

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

"Wait Upon the Lord"

Today's reading - Acts 10:5-8 (NIV): The angel answered, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have come up as a memorial offering before God. 5Now send men to Joppa to bring back a man named Simon who is called Peter. 6He is staying with Simon the tanner, whose house is by the sea."

7When the angel who spoke to him had gone, Cornelius called two of his servants and a devout soldier who was one of his attendants. 8He told them everything that had happened and sent them to Joppa.

It is wonderful to know that when we are sincere in our prayers and generosity that they are offered before God. We do not do the offering; a sincere offering belongs to the Lord and comes from His work within us. We deserve nothing. The Lord is preparing a blessing for Cornelius and those around him as they have been leading faithful lives following God’s ways. The angel messenger has made an impression and Cornelius obeyed his orders and is waiting what God has planned for him.

We must all serve the Lord and wait upon the Lord with a sincere heart. Here we have an example to follow. Serve, pray, listen, follow and wait.

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

"Blessing"

Today's reading - Acts 10:1-4 (NIV): 1At Caesarea there was a man named Cornelius, a centurion in what was known as the Italian Regiment. 2He and all his family were devout and God-fearing; he gave generously to those in need and prayed to God regularly. 3One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!"

4Cornelius stared at him in fear. "What is it, Lord?" he asked.

Dialogue is conversation between two individuals and in this scripture it is between a man of God and an angel of God. We understand that Cornelius is a devoted man, to his family, to helping others, to his religious upbringing and a believer in one God and now God is blessing him by sending an angel to him.

As mankind turns to believe in the one true God of creation and dialogues with Him without ceasing, the world will be a better place and God will speak to the hearts of mankind. We will not have to fear God himself, but fear the reality for those that do not believe. When believers face God He will know us but the ugly truth is when non-believers face God, it will only be for an instant rather than for eternity.

Look into the mirror at yourself for a few moments, then ask if you see the angel that the Lord is sending to a non-believer?

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

"On our knees"

Today’s reading Acts 9: 39-43: 39Peter went with them, and when he arrived he was taken upstairs to the room. All the widows stood around him, crying and showing him the robes and other clothing that Dorcas had made while she was still with them.

40Peter sent them all out of the room; then he got down on his knees and prayed. Turning toward the dead woman, he said, "Tabitha, get up." She opened her eyes, and seeing Peter she sat up. 41He took her by the hand and helped her to her feet. Then he called the believers and the widows and presented her to them alive. 42This became known all over Joppa, and many people believed in the Lord. 43Peter stayed in Joppa for some time with a tanner named Simon.

The power of God is magnificent and Peter got down on his knees and prayed to God for a miracle for this community. We really don’t know in these verses if he asked specifically for the resurrection, what we do know is that he prayed and then spoke to Dorcas telling her to get up. It is possible God choose to resurrect Dorcas to reinforce His power to these women around her.

Those around her that had been crying were mourning her loss and she had been such a servant to them, providing them with clothing they would not have had without her help. The Lord gave to them unconditionally, the gift of life for Dorcas.

The story spread around Joppa swiftly, that is just like God to give His people the pleasure of His works without holding back anything. Complete and full supply of their friend, they were not expecting this, but received it!

We must approach God on our knees asking Him to bless those that serve the widows and the poor and ask Him to grant his mighty power.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO
www.aldersgatecurch.com

"Assurance"

Today’s Reading - Acts 9:36-38 (NIV): 36In Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which, when translated, is Dorcas, who was always doing good and helping the poor. 37About that time she became sick and died, and her body was washed and placed in an upstairs room. 38Lydda was near Joppa; so when the disciples heard that Peter was in Lydda, they sent two men to him and urged him, "Please come at once!"

It is wonderful to have someone to call upon in the time of sorrow, especially when a friend or family member or someone like Dorcas, who cared for many in her community, becomes ill and succumbs to death. Many people had been touched by her generous life, her spirit of servant hood to the poor.

The disciples and those around her knew that God had provided many miracles and in their desperation, they sent for Peter to come to their side. Their need was for comfort. God is our comforter and He wants to be, however, many of us only cry out to Him when we need his comforting. There is more to God! As we cry out like this, no matter what the human need is, we are assured the presence of God.

Call upon Him in confusion, in transition, in moral decisions, in ministry needs, in service choices, in opportunities to do good, in joys of new birth, new relationships, marriages, your children’s accomplishments and in all things He will be your comforter! Oh, the splendor of the King!

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

“Jesus Christ heals”

Today’s Reading Acts 9:32-35 (NIV): 32As Peter traveled about the country, he went to visit the saints in Lydda. 33There he found a man named Aeneas, a paralytic who had been bedridden for eight years. 34"Aeneas," Peter said to him, "Jesus Christ heals you. Get up and take care of your mat." Immediately Aeneas got up. 35All those who lived in Lydda and Sharon saw him and turned to the Lord.

God does not beat around the bush to get to the main point of His message! Only 4 sentences was needed here. Jesus heals…… believe……..

From this we can come to know that giving your testimony does not have to be lengthy or full of profound words that are difficult to understand. God’s sermon for this day is wrapped up nicely in this truth! I am encouraged by this passage, for I need healing – everyday healing that is supernatural beyond my understanding. Those experiences grow my faith and acceptance of the love Jesus Christ has for me.

Jesus Christ has healed previous wounds in my life and turned them into a way for me to draw closer to Him. To be healed, one must pray. Pray with the steadfast hope that we know God will answer our prayers in His time and in His will. Pray to accept that will and to trust that it is perfect!

We need nothing else, but God’s perfect will for our lives to be healed! Now go and tell someone.

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

"Acts of Boldness"

Today's Reading Acts 9:29-31 (NIV): 29He (Saul) talked and debated with the Grecian Jews, but they tried to kill him. 30When the brothers learned of this, they took him down to Caesarea and sent him off to Tarsus.

31Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace. It was strengthened; and encouraged by the Holy Spirit; it grew in numbers, living in the fear of the Lord.

When our youngest son Matt was in his early teens we use to tell him that when he started driving his own car we were going to get personalized license plates that read “I R GUE” – because he was so good at debating both of us. My husband has a bold personality, a large presence and very loud and distinguishable voice. He has a powerful whistle that can be heard down the street. He spoke and whistled boldly on the soccer field in a lot of different ways. Matt is very much like him, bold and loud and I love them both for who they are! (Don’t be made guys)

It takes a personality like that, which Saul also had, to debate the Greek speaking Jewish people in Jerusalem. It wasn’t one on one debating either, it was one on hundreds probably, which helped the Jews to believe they had the right to try to kill him. You and I know differently, they were not taking on just one Saul; they were debating the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. They stood no chance.

However, the band of brothers didn’t want to risk it, so they took Saul away. The rest and peace was needed among the believers to prepare them to be used by God to spread the gospel message. God knew they needed this time to grow in numbers, become stronger in their faith, learn how to help one another and work together because it wouldn’t be long before Saul would return and his ministry would begin.

The church (believers in Christ) was filled with the Holy Spirit and when that happens to a group of people (our congregations) blessings are abundant and ministry happens. A congregation that depends on God as their foundation of strength will overcome any thing that could harm them. Believers that are bold speak of the miracles God provides and their faith is real and seen by others around them. They speak of the power of God working in their congregations and they pray in thanksgiving.

Matt continued to grow in stature and age and determination and is a fine young man, a believer that doesn’t argue his faith. He challenges people by the way he expresses himself and Saul did also. Over the years I have learned from my husband and my son that being bold and expressive is an attribute that is needed in important situations. Growing the body of Christ over the next several decades was going to need boldness from everyone.

The work of this first congregation is so exciting to read and study; let’s continue our spiritual journey with these early missionaries of deep abiding faith. Jesus commissioned His disciples with the Holy Spirit to take the message of salvation to all and He is calling you and me today. Glorify Jesus in all that you do and His eternal peace will be with you always.

Dorothy Drago Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO

www.aldersgatechurch.com

Personal reference

Today’s Reading: Acts 9:27-28 NIV

27 But Barnabas took [Saul] and brought him to the apostles. He told them how Saul on his journey had seen the Lord and that the Lord had spoken to him, and how in Damascus he had preached fearlessly in the name of Jesus. 28 So Saul stayed with them and moved about freely in Jerusalem, speaking boldly in the name of the Lord.

Good morning!

A personal reference can make all the difference when it comes to finding a new job. When I was hired three years ago by my present employer, one of the attorneys I had worked with at a former law firm took the time to send an email reference to the legal team I was meeting with in advance of my scheduled interview. It was a positive personal reference, citing several instances where I had made a positive impact with their legal team. I have no doubt of the weight it carried when I received a job offer. A good personal reference can carry far greater weight than even a professionally prepared resume, especially when the endorser speaks from the heart.

It is really hard to live down a negative reputation. By God’s grace, people can and do change every day. Yet, human nature teaches us to bear grudges, not trusting that the person who may have previously misled or disappointed others had actually changed! The Apostles and new believers were understandably hesitant when it came to trusting Saul. His reputation for killing new Christian converts preceded his alleged instantaneous conversion. Was it possible that this man, who had hurt so many, was now saved by Jesus Christ?

Thank God for Barnabas. He recognized Saul’s transformation and knew, without a doubt, that he had accepted Jesus as His Lord. Barnabas was well aware of Saul’s tarnished reputation in the Christian community. More than anything else, Saul needed someone who was well-respected to vouch for him in the inner circle. Barnabas was not afraid to bridge the gap between Saul and his skeptics. Have you ever had someone, who knew of your past mistakes, stand up and speak in your favor simply because they believe you are no longer the same?

If you find yourself longing to serve the Lord, yet, do not know how to adequately convey your change of heart to the inner circle, you need a rock-solid endorsement. Let the power of the Holy Spirit speak for you. Time and again, doubters were convinced that someone who may not have been a trustworthy candidate has, in fact, been changed by faith.

Christ is calling you to be a Barnabas to someone who needs a word of encouragement and support today. Do you believe it is possible for a person to truly change? Are you willing to risk your life on it? Father, help us to discern and acknowledge the faith You have planted in the hearts of your servants today. Help us not judge each other on the past mistakes we’ve made, but on the life-changing power that transforms sinners into saints for kingdom work. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

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“What about reputation?”

Today’s reading: Acts 9:23-26 (NIV) 23After many days had gone by, the Jews conspired to kill him, 24but Saul learned of their plan. Day and night they kept close watch on the city gates in order to kill him. 25But his followers took him by night and lowered him in a basket through an opening in the wall.

26When he came to Jerusalem, he tried to join the disciples, but they were all afraid of him, not believing that he really was a disciple.

Celebrities have a following and they also have a reputation. Does it matter which comes first? Perhaps Saul’s reputation prior to becoming a believer was daunting and his reputation after he began preaching was in question. The footnote in the Bible I use states that when Saul left Damascus preaching he went to Arabia (north) and was there for three years. I don’t think I ever picked up on that before. I look at Saul’s calling a little differently now knowing he spent three years with God before he began to fulfill his ministry.

Jews were still plotting to kill Saul even though he had developed a following, he had to be careful. Others risk their lives to help Saul stay out of reach of the Jewish people who wanted him dead. I can’t imagine living with a bounty on my head! I can’t even comprehend what that might be like. The fear he and his followers must have had caused issues for them all. God was in charge of this though, we know that, for Jesus spoke to Saul and Saul was changed. He had plans unknown for Saul, He had you and me in mind.

When he made his way to Jerusalem, he longed to be with the disciples who had lived and served with Jesus. His reputation impacted his acceptance and they were afraid to believe if his transformation was real or would he revert to his old ways.

You and I need to live our lives so that our reputations do not hinder the spread of the gospel. Reading and studying God’s word daily helps us to be able to share biblical examples with others. Truths such as creation, prophecy, chosen people, temple building, leadership of Kings, lineage of David, immaculate conception, birth, life, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The page is turning now; Saul has come to Jerusalem and will use his leadership skills and knowledge with the divine guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Dear Saul, I am so glad that I don’t have to look for an opening in the wall so my friends can bring me in to share the gospel message. Thank you Saul for doing that for us.

Your friends in Christ,
All Christians


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

"Jesus is the Christ"

Today’s reading Acts 19:20 – 22: “Saul spent several days with the disciples in Damascus. 20At once he began to preach in the synagogues that Jesus is the Son of God. 21All those who heard him were astonished and asked, "Isn't he the man who raised havoc in Jerusalem among those who call on this name? And hasn't he come here to take them as prisoners to the chief priests?" 22Yet Saul grew more and more powerful and baffled the Jews living in Damascus by proving that Jesus is the Christ.”

For several years now, I have attended the Women of Faith Conferences, a weekend retreat of sort, with inspiring speakers and worship and praise music - a day and a half with other Christian women. A Walk to Emmaus weekend is a time away with other believers to re-vitalize your walk with Jesus and gain a better understanding of God’s grace. Saul too spent several days with the disciples, perhaps, learning about Jesus on a personal and spiritual level.

We all need energizing sometimes and there is nothing wrong with that. What is important is that we recognize when we need to draw nearer to the Lord and not ignore whatever signs there are that indicate we have this need.

I know I fall short of living the way that pleases the Lord. Perhaps time away with other disciples would help me free myself of judging others or complaining about people and circumstances that I find myself in. I tend to lean towards being an opinionated person and sometimes my expression isn’t that of living a Christ-like example.

What I desire, is that everyday someone might say, I see love in Dorothy, I see that she has compassion and a caring heart. I don’t want these things for me personally; I want them so that others see Jesus and not Dorothy.

Surrounding myself with other Christians’ feeds my soul, but if I only use that time for myself to grow, the ultimate purpose is wasted. We must be like Saul was at this juncture in his life; spend time with other disciples, grow spiritually and intellectually, go and share what Jesus has done for you and how your life has changed as a result. Share it in acts of compassion and kindness, being open and honest, humble yourself from pride and show love to others in genuine ways. Jesus will change the lives of others when they are introduced to Him. Don’t let them miss out because of your actions. Jesus is the Christ!

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

"Let your journey begin today"

Today’s reading Acts 9: 17 – 19: “ 17Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, "Brother Saul, the Lord—Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here—has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit." 18Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul's eyes, and he could see again. He got up and was baptized, 19and after taking some food, he regained his strength.”

After my first mission trip to Mexico, I was hooked. I had learned that I too could serve with what skills that I had and the Holy Spirit would provide the place. I have to admit, I was terrified crossing the border, praying for green light rather than red light so we would not be pulled aside to be searched. On each of the four mission trips to Mexico that I was part of, our luggage was filled with lots of different items for the community; clothes, diapers; medicine, books and more, items that could have caused an issue at the border. Only on one trip did our entire bus have to unload and walk through the line, but only a few were searched with no issues. Praise God!

I imagine Ananias was fearful just as I was when the voice came to him for his mission to go and greet Saul. Saul’s reputation preceded him and fear was in the minds of both Jew and Gentile. We know from these verses that Ananias indeed heard God’s voice and followed Him. His tender greeting of “Brother Saul” shows the compassion and genuine man of God that Ananias was.

In my life time I have had some disagreements with others that turned pretty ugly; some of you may have also. What I learned from those situations is that it takes time to heal, it takes time to regain trust, it takes time to see again, to see the real person inside and it takes time for the spirit to work. I have also found that it is worth every ounce of energy I put into it to experience the God ordained result. Which is what Ananias is witnessing, the God ordained baptism of Saul and his filling of the Holy Spirit. What a privilege for Ananias and those around him.

Saul was a religious man, well taught and feared the Christian movement would ruin Judaism. God was now ready to use all of Saul for the gospel. It is indeed a privilege to serve Jesus, to respond unconditionally to God’s calling; we are changed forever. No matter how religious we think we are how much we know about scripture and truth, the way we serve Jesus Christ, must be His way. We must serve the Lord with gladness and for the Glory of God.

Your missionary journey today is to go and share the gospel with someone. Will you say yes?

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

"To hear the voice of God"

Today’s reading: Acts 9:9-11 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.
10In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!" "Yes, Lord," he answered.

11The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight."

13"Lord," Ananias answered, "I have heard many reports about this man and all the harm he has done to your saints in Jerusalem. 14And he has come here with authority from the chief priests to arrest all who call on your name."

15But the Lord said to Ananias, "Go! This man is my chosen instrument to carry my name before the Gentiles and their kings and before the people of Israel. 16I will show him how much he must suffer for my name."

Singer, songwriter Wayne Watson sings a song that contains these lyrics - “For such a time as this, I was placed upon the earth, to hear the voice of God, to do his will, whatever it is,…” I fell in love with this song about 1997 and for me it became my mission statement, to use a catch phrase from the business world. I played that song over and over, listening with an intent heart and soul. If you aren’t familiar with it, take a few moments and listen to it from this link Wayne Watson - For Such A Time As This or Google the title.

The spoken word of God came to Ananias – pure, divine, and clear. Even as Ananias questioned the Lord, Ananias still heard the voice of God declaring that this horrible man Saul is to be healed to become a follower of Jesus Christ and God’s chosen one to lead.

The very first mission trip that I went on to Mexico was not by my choice. I had said no many times, then 7 days before a departure to build a church, someone became ill and I was asked if I could go. I had no passport, no building skills, feared flying and worked fulltime, so I knew I could not go. For some reason, I asked at work if I could get off, and everyone was fine with it, I was assured a passport at that time was not necessary for we were within a certain radius of the border. Nothing stood in my way, so I said yes.

God intended for me to serve Him and made every obstacle able to be overcome. Jesus’ divine message toward the cold, heinous hearted man named Saul struck him blind for three days. You see, God can change whatever and whomever He chooses. He sent me, he sent Ananias and He chose Saul. “For such a time as this, I was placed upon the earth, to hear the voice of God to do His will!”

Each of us is here for God’s purpose and nothing else. Follow where He takes you because it is in His will, whatever it is.

Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate Church
Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com

"Anticipating More"

Today’s reading: Acts 9: 7 – 9 7 The men traveling with Saul stood there speechless; they heard the sound but did not see anyone. 8Saul got up from the ground, but when he opened his eyes he could see nothing. So they led him by the hand into Damascus. 9For three days he was blind, and did not eat or drink anything.

We know in yesterday’s scripture reading that Saul had an encounter with Jesus because they spoke to one another. In these verses the men only heard they did not see what was seen by Saul, but it is safe to say they saw (witnessed) what happened to Saul as they led him on into Damascus. Verse 17 which we haven’t read yet, confirms that not only did Saul speak with Jesus, he saw Jesus as He appeared to him.

Phil and I have two dogs, both boxers that we adopted through a rescue organization. I love them both, they have a way of getting really close to you, love on you, shake that hind end of theirs, perk up their ears and you just know they depend on you for everything in their life. That is a great relationship and a great friendship to have.

Jesus has great relationships and friendships also. He gets just close enough to you, whispers He loves you, tells you He died for you, shakes with delight when you speak to Him, perks up His ears when you pray to him and you just know He depends on you to accept the love He has for you.

We have the opportunity to see Jesus in the scriptures. We also see Him in the love of others, in their actions and in their spirit. We must get up off the couch to see Jesus, if we aren’t getting up earlier on Sunday for worship, perhaps we should.

Relationships take work; each must give 100% to the relationship for it to flourish. We just can’t have a great relationship with only part time investment. Saul, a non-believer in Jesus as the messiah, was serving God as a Pharisee in the only may he knew how. His friends were now assisting him down the road towards a relationship that will forever direct the Christian faith.

Anticipating more!

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

“Suddenly – death – prayer”

Today’s reading: 3As he (Saul) neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?"
5"Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked.
"I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6"Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do."

Tons and tons of rain just kept coming and coming across Missouri all day yesterday and all night last night. Heavy downpours drenched every speck of dirk and filled every sink hole and the James River has overflowed its banks into the driving range across the highway. Some reports say up to 9 inches and more fell in 30 hours. That is a ton of rain bringing havoc to everyone.

The rain turned into thunder storms around 10 PM and sky began to light up. I don’t believe that is the type of storm Saul was experiencing however. He was traveling, so most likely it was day time. The word suddenly takes on meaning here; it means this light from the sky (in Saul’s mind) came out of no where for now reason – bam – it was there. It shocked him so much he fell to the ground.

With the storm yesterday also came sudden death, three young teens were killed in an auto accident due to the slick pavement. I imagine as friends and family began to hear this sudden tragic news, they fell to the ground. I know I would have if it had been my children or friends. I was stunned not even knowing them.

One moment our lives are moving right along and the next moment, suddenly everything changes in an instance. Forever changed! There are probably a lot of questions of ‘why’ being lifted upward in the aftermath of this storm. Saul had every right to ask ‘who are you Lord” because he was stunned and thrown to the ground and heard a voice - something he never expected.

The families and friends of these teens need our prayers. I pray that they will look to the Lord for their strength and question him when they feel the need. Not only question why but question the Lord to help them, to ask Him to stand beside them, to carry them through this awful storm and tell them what to do. The Lord is our light from heaven, we know that, but not everyone does. Saul didn’t know yet when the light suddenly came out of nowhere. As a result of this tragedy in southwest Missouri, it is our responsibility to pray them through this time.

In offering my prayers I fall to the ground.


Dorothy Drago Brucks

Aldersgate UMC

Nixa, MO.

http://www.aldersgatechurch.com/

"Breath of God"

Today’s Reading: Acts 9: 1 – 2 1Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem.


Have you ever been on a rampage to get something done on time? Or perhaps you have watched an episode of Bridezilla? Or you have received an ugly, hateful phone call from someone you don’t even know, yelling and threatening you.


People want control. People think their opinions are right and sometimes will barrel right through another person to get their point across wanting things their way. Have you sat at an athletic event when the fans don’t like the referee’s call on the final play? Choice words come firing out the mouths of parents, friends, community members, students with some of them breathing fire like dragons. (Remind you of Saul?)


Why is it that when we think we are ‘right’ some just keep pushing other people’s buttons? Control! Saul continued his murderous threats against the Jews who had become Christians, he sought the help of the high priest so he could arrest them and takes them as prisoners to be tried and killed. The determination and zeal of Saul in these two verses must be turned around, it simply isn’t right. We should be exclaiming the good news as profoundly as we do our complaints.


To put this scripture to work in our lives, let’s take a moment and think about the unchurched in our communities. We could ask a friend to mail an encouraging letter to someone; we could seek the support of the congregation to invite the unchurched to visit some Sunday morning. Instead of trying to be right all the time, we could pray Father; forgive me, for I have not introduced anyone to you this week.


As believers in Jesus Christ, we must tell about our relationship with God, remember our spiritual gift of kindness when talking to difficult people, draw on our relationship with Jesus to make right choices, think spiritually and converse encouragingly with those around us. We should breathe the breath of God in our everyday conversations as strongly as Saul did his threats.



Dorothy Drago Brucks

Aldersgate UMC

Nixa, MO.

www.aldersgatechurch.com

"Transforming Power"

Today’s Reading: Acts 8:36 - 40 36As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, "Look, here is water. Why shouldn't I be baptized?" 38And he gave orders to stop the chariot. Then both Philip and the eunuch went down into the water and Philip baptized him. 39When they came up out of the water, the Spirit of the Lord suddenly took Philip away, and the eunuch did not see him again, but went on his way rejoicing. 40Philip, however, appeared at Azotus and traveled about, preaching the gospel in all the towns until he reached Caesarea.


The Holy Spirit is God’s greatest gift to us as believers in Jesus Christ as our savior. When we receive the spirit we receive the giver also. The eunuch wanted more than to believe, he wanted a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Notice he did not ask Philip to baptize him, he asked him why shouldn’t he be baptized? Totally different question.


So Philip did not hesitate, he went to the water and baptized the eunuch and the spirit was present as they came up out of the water. Philip did not deny him baptism because of who he was or where he was from, for baptism is for all believers. Baptism of the spirit connects us forever to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and we are given the gift of eternal life.


On a personal level, I know with certainty that I am a different person because of the holy spirit. He is constantly guiding me and helps me through the struggles of life and he brings joy into my life. My mother passed away two years ago at the age of 88. She had been healthy and had every memory imaginable until a virus attacked her intestines as a result of high doses of antibiotics. It was a senseless virus that took her earthly life.


She was a believer, loved the Lord and knew she would be seeing Jesus soon, she just needed to let go of me. That night, I crawled into the hospital bed with her, I told her I knew God would take care of me, so we prayed out loud together, asking the Holy Spirit to come and to take her to Jesus. I found out later, that earlier that day she had asked three people that visited her to be sure to take care of me.


You see, the power transforms us, takes us through our lives and teaches us to spread the good news of Jesus Christ. Although I didn’t see the Holy Spirit take my mother I sensed his presence and he assists me every day so that I can go on rejoicing in the Lord, just like he did for the Ethiopian eunuch in this scripture.



Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo

http://www.aldersgatecurch.com/

"Teachable hearts"

Today’s reading: Acts 8:30-35 (NIV) 30Then Philip ran up to the chariot and heard the man reading Isaiah the prophet. "Do you understand what you are reading?" Philip asked. 31"How can I," he said, "unless someone explains it to me?" So he invited Philip to come up and sit with him.

32The eunuch was reading this passage of Scripture: "He was led like a sheep to the slaughter, and as a lamb before the shearer is silent, so he did not open his mouth. 33In his humiliation he was deprived of justice. Who can speak of his descendants? For his life was taken from the earth."

34The eunuch asked Philip, "Tell me, please, who is the prophet talking about, himself or someone else?" 35Then Philip began with that very passage of Scripture and told him the good news about Jesus.

To some degree there is a teacher in me. I seem to be drawn into starting groups or studies, get them on their feet and then God calls me in another direction and off I go. Example, I had felt the calling to start a new Sunday School class a few years ago, so I began to process of choosing a topic, getting a couple people interested, advertised and began the class. It took three different launches to get off the ground but we made it and the core of that group is still together today.


As the class grew, it filled with men and women, couples, widows, singles and they were all older than me. I found the age thing a bit strange as I felt most of them were much more capable of teaching than myself. I soon found out the people had hearts ready to hear the gospel. We used the bible as our studying, usually a particular book.


There was one particular retired woman in the class who knew the scriptures well and always contributed. One day she told the class that she had never been baptized and wanted to know what everyone thought. Out of that discussion it was decided they wanted to study the trinity. So I sat out to study and prepare and four weeks later we were taking on the trinity. The class was somewhat like the eunuch, having read the word but not yet understanding how some parts fit together.


God provided a spirit-filled Philip to help the eunuch to understand the coming of the messiah. When a person is ready and open to listen to scripture, God provides them a way, a friend or leader to help instruct them. God also provides the means in which to prepare, study and teach. As we take the opportunity to admit we don’t understand, we are taking another step in our spiritual journey with our savior. It is essential to learn of the savior and to acknowledge Jesus as the Messiah. How would we have known if we had not heard? How would we have heard if someone had not read? How would we have read if someone had not listened? Take a few minutes today to read and then another few minutes to listen and another few minutes to tell.

By the way, 2 years later, at age 77, she was baptized in the name of the Father, Son & Holy Spirit!



Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.

www.aldersgatechurch.com

"Go - and stay near it."

Today's reading: Acts 8:26-29 (NIV) 26Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Go south to the road—the desert road—that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." 27So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. 29The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it."

Earlier in Acts we read that the good news would be spread to the ends of the earth. Biblical commentary tells us that it was believed that Ethiopia was to the ends of the earth. I wonder if Philip knew how far he was to go, the scripture doesn’t say, it only tells us that Philip received a divine direction to head down the desert road. And so he did.

Philip was willing to do this for Jesus. He wanted to give his all to Jesus and carry the message of salvation to everyone; it didn’t matter to him where or when, only for whom mattered. Philip trusted the Lord to give him the Holy Spirit to understand the message of scripture and the message of salvation. Philip was living in God’s will, he was free from repression, quilt, sin in his life, he was living for Jesus.

Communion Sunday is a day for me to take a deep look at who I am and what I do before I ever step up to the altar to accept the gift of Holy Communion. I want Jesus to be the person in my life that I look to as the only example of what I should be. I want my ambition to be His ambition for me. I must be living in God’s will so that I can be free to accept the elements of Holy Communion.

Jesus, gave everything for me, all that I am and all that I have or desire to become must be based on living my life for the Lord. In hearing the divine calling to come to the table of communion is much like Philip’s calling. He sets out on his way and it isn’t long before he see’s a man in a carriage reading scripture and the spirit spoke to Philip saying ‘go to that chariot and stay near it.’

God calls each one of us to the table and desires us to accept the gift of his body and blood. He wants us to stay near him, and he made a way for us to do that. He also wants us to understand His love for us. Receiving communion is a spiritual act of acknowledging Jesus’ crucifixion, death and resurrection for the forgiveness of our sins. I am called to the table to lay myself down at his feet, share with him my frailty and seek forgiveness for my sins. I am like the Ethiopian Eunuch; I have come to worship and am moved to read the scripture. It is at this table of Holy Communion that we receive the spirit in yet another way. Go to the table and stay near it!

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

"In Peter and John's Footsteps"

Today's reading: Acts 8:18-27 (New International Version) 18When Simon saw that the Spirit was given at the laying on of the apostles' hands, he offered them money 19and said, "Give me also this ability so that everyone on whom I lay my hands may receive the Holy Spirit."

20Peter answered: "May your money perish with you, because you thought you could buy the gift of God with money! 21You have no part or share in this ministry, because your heart is not right before God. 22Repent of this wickedness and pray to the Lord. Perhaps he will forgive you for having such a thought in your heart. 23For I see that you are full of bitterness and captive to sin."

24Then Simon answered, "Pray to the Lord for me so that nothing you have said may happen to me."

25When they had testified and proclaimed the word of the Lord, Peter and John returned to Jerusalem, preaching the gospel in many Samaritan villages.

Simon must be a bitter man. Something or some situation in his life inflicted him with evil spirits of jealousy and cold heartedness. He is wanting it all and is willing to offer money for whatever it takes to be in power. Some people just don’t get it, and that is truly sad.

I love watching “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” and tonight’s episode was especially meaningful as the home was built for a local family here in southwest Missouri. The family on the receiving end of the gift was in need and I admire that builder and all of those people that put in their time, goods and equipment for free for this deserving family they had never met. They get it!

Peter told Simon that he needed to pray for forgiveness for money can not buy God’s work. He still hadn’t faced the fact that the Lord was graciously giving the Holy Spirit to those that became believers with sincere hearts. Each one of us is given the opportunity to share God’s love and how He has blessed us. Giving of our time and energy and resources does make a difference. The disciples were making a difference by continuing Jesus’ ministry through the power of the Holy Spirit.

You and I can begin to breakdown cycles, the cycles of poverty, hunger, inadequate housing, and families with no electricity or water. The United Nations has chosen this Monday, October 5th to be World Habitat Day - a day to stand up and let it be known that affordable, adequate housing should be a priority everywhere. By writing about this in today’s devotional is to raise awareness about this global problem. It is my first step in making sure that everyone in my realm of influence knows there is a way to assist and see that everyone everywhere has a safe and decent place to call home.

John and Peter kept preaching the gospel message because the Lord sent them; where ever the Lord sends you to assist others, go, take the step to share your heart and your time, God will bless your endeavors however large or small they may seem to be. Most of us will not be able to build a home for someone in 7 days for free and pay off mortgages and give full college scholarships, but we can give where the Lord wants us to. Blessings to you as you continue in Peter and John’s footsteps in sharing the gospel to many.


Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.

www.aldersgatechurch.com

If you desire more information about Habitat for Humanity check out their website: http://www.habitat.org/