"Performance or Genuine Faith"
Today's reading: Acts 8:9-13 (NIV) 9Now for some time a man named Simon had practiced sorcery in the city and amazed all the people of Samaria. He boasted that he was someone great, 10and all the people, both high and low, gave him their attention and exclaimed, "This man is the divine power known as the Great Power." 11They followed him because he had amazed them for a long time with his magic. 12But when they believed Philip as he preached the good news of the kingdom of God and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women. 13Simon himself believed and was baptized. And he followed Philip everywhere, astonished by the great signs and miracles he saw.
Scene I: Hey you – look over here at what I am doing! I am Simon and I can do amazing things because I have the power. Watch me, I will perform magic, I can tell you about your future, I know when it will rain and where a good place to plant your crops are. Come back everyday, I will have a new message for you and I want you to see what I can do for you.
Scene II: Sir, I believe you are new in town, may I help you? Do you and your friends need a place to stay or food? No, we are fine; we have enough for the Lord God has been providing for us. We have joined together and share our food and belongings and help each other and all our needs are met. We believe in Jesus Christ, the son of God, who was crucified in Jerusalem, have you heard about him? You haven’t, well let me tell you about Jesus.
When the good news of the kingdom of God is preached, people listen! There is something miraculous about God’s word and it has nothing to do with being magical. There are no tricks when God’s word is spoken or read or heard. They are God’s word, nothing less than divine!
Have you known someone like Simon with the attitude of it’s all about me? Trying to have a conversation with them is difficult and often doesn’t last long. I find myself trying to stay away from those conversations, probably not the right thing to do.
How about knowing someone like Philip? Perhaps a friend or acquaintance whose mere presence, behavior, character, kindness and compassion all exude a deep spiritual life. Those are the kind of people I love to be around, they encourage me to be better, they are the type of person I want to strive to be, I want to grow spiritually because of what I witness in them.
This is possibly the type of person Philip was, for people listened to him and they believed. The scripture does not tell us what type of speaker he is or if he is a leader, it tells us of the power behind him and the truth of the message he shared. It tells us that the Holy Spirit is at work in Philip, in the hearts and mind of the Samaritans and even in Simon. They believed and were baptized. Do you know someone that needs to hear about Jesus so they too will be baptized?
If you do, be Philip and share Christ with others.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Friday, October 02, 2009
Thursday, October 01, 2009
"Samaria comes Alive"
Today's reading: Acts 8:4-8 (NIV) 4Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. 6When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7With shrieks, evil spirits came out of many, and many paralytics and cripples were healed. 8So there was great joy in that city.
I am so glad that the preachers did not give up when the people were scattered into Judea and Samaria. I can not imagine what might have happened to the gospel message and Christian faith as we know it today.
My faith is largely affected by my own past experiences. I recall the years in high school when I first became interested in God. I starting taking bible study at a local Episcopal church and eventually joined that church my senior year. That was my very first faith step taken by my own choice.
Later in my adulthood is when my heart opened wide to the Lord and I began my spiritual journey with Christ. When God’s word is preached and taught, amazing things happen. Verse 6 is evidence of this for sure. But why Samaria, not the place one would think these new Christians would have traveled to, since Jews and Samaritans hadn’t mixed well. That is preciously where God wanted them to travel in order to share the message of the resurrection with those that had not yet believed.
Each time I take a step to share about the love Jesus has provided for me, I know that God is providing my courage (miraculous sign vs 6). If the conversation continues and someone asks me more, or I sense they are seeking (paying close attention vs. 6), I dig a little more and share a deeper personally and ask questions of them. At times like these I am very close to God, He draws me into Him.
When joy is present in one’s life greater things are yet to come (from a familiar contemporary song). As the spirit of God fills the hearts of the congregation ministry is done by more and more. Crowds begin to come to hear about this joy. Our pastors preach the gospel and reveal how others too can receive the joy.
The kingdom of Samaria came alive with belief as Philip shared in his ministry. The church is alive today because of the ministry of many over the generations, because God wants every last individual to have the opportunity to hear the Good News! Won’t you share it?
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate Church, Nixa, MO.
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Today's reading: Acts 8:4-8 (NIV) 4Those who had been scattered preached the word wherever they went. 5Philip went down to a city in Samaria and proclaimed the Christ there. 6When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7With shrieks, evil spirits came out of many, and many paralytics and cripples were healed. 8So there was great joy in that city.
I am so glad that the preachers did not give up when the people were scattered into Judea and Samaria. I can not imagine what might have happened to the gospel message and Christian faith as we know it today.
My faith is largely affected by my own past experiences. I recall the years in high school when I first became interested in God. I starting taking bible study at a local Episcopal church and eventually joined that church my senior year. That was my very first faith step taken by my own choice.
Later in my adulthood is when my heart opened wide to the Lord and I began my spiritual journey with Christ. When God’s word is preached and taught, amazing things happen. Verse 6 is evidence of this for sure. But why Samaria, not the place one would think these new Christians would have traveled to, since Jews and Samaritans hadn’t mixed well. That is preciously where God wanted them to travel in order to share the message of the resurrection with those that had not yet believed.
Each time I take a step to share about the love Jesus has provided for me, I know that God is providing my courage (miraculous sign vs 6). If the conversation continues and someone asks me more, or I sense they are seeking (paying close attention vs. 6), I dig a little more and share a deeper personally and ask questions of them. At times like these I am very close to God, He draws me into Him.
When joy is present in one’s life greater things are yet to come (from a familiar contemporary song). As the spirit of God fills the hearts of the congregation ministry is done by more and more. Crowds begin to come to hear about this joy. Our pastors preach the gospel and reveal how others too can receive the joy.
The kingdom of Samaria came alive with belief as Philip shared in his ministry. The church is alive today because of the ministry of many over the generations, because God wants every last individual to have the opportunity to hear the Good News! Won’t you share it?
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate Church, Nixa, MO.
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
"Better reasons to go house to house."
Today’s reading: Acts 8:1-3 (NIV)
1And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison.
Stephen’s death was peace-filled and is an example to us of how we can face our own mortality, desiring to make ourselves ready to see Jesus at the right hand of God. However, for those around him war was breaking out and the Jewish people were executing their prisoner. Over the past 3 – 4 decades there have been many prisoners of war in these modern times. We have heard their stories of capture, torture, death, trial and for some, return. Not much has changed.
What has changed as a result of Stephen’s ministry and his willingness to claim Jesus as the savior is the fulfillment of the Christ’s message in Acts 1:8 ‘you will receive the power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.’ Stephen declared Jesus as Lord and revealed him as worthy of worship and praise. Luke the writer, shares this message because he desperately wants people to see Jesus to believe in His divine nature.
I found it interesting how Luke introduces Saul by name, saying Saul was there and approved of the stoning. The writer makes mention of him by name to draw attention to him as a man of influence. God has another plan in mind about Saul and he wanted everyone to remember his name and what he had done, thus it was spoken and written.
As I open my heart to allow the presence of the Holy Spirit in, He gives me strength and He gives me peace. When you recognize what a strong man of God Stephen was, we take that with us, we must remember why he endured to the end. When we need to endure the challenges we face, remember the face of Stephen and draw upon his example.
Many left the area; many stayed to be sent to prison and killed. I want to follow in Stephen’s steps and share the gospel message, not scattered or kept from sharing the gospel. As believers we must be in prayer and we must start at home. Our pastor Dennis prays weekly with 5 other pastors of other denominations here in Nixa and they pray for each other in ministry, their congregations, the community and how together we can reach the un-churched, to serve them and introduce them to Christ. They do this because it is the right thing to do. Christians are scattered over our land and have the common thread of the Holy Spirit. Introducing someone to have an opportunity to meet Christ is what God commanded us to do. We must care for the orphans and widows and go and make disciples.
Every opportunity you have, look up into the sky, whether it is cloudy, sunny or filled with dull gray storm clouds, know that Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God and is directing your life every moment of every day. Go house to house as Saul did, only go in the name of the Lord God Almighty.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, MO.
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Today’s reading: Acts 8:1-3 (NIV)
1And Saul was there, giving approval to his death. On that day a great persecution broke out against the church at Jerusalem, and all except the apostles were scattered throughout Judea and Samaria. 2Godly men buried Stephen and mourned deeply for him. 3But Saul began to destroy the church. Going from house to house, he dragged off men and women and put them in prison.
Stephen’s death was peace-filled and is an example to us of how we can face our own mortality, desiring to make ourselves ready to see Jesus at the right hand of God. However, for those around him war was breaking out and the Jewish people were executing their prisoner. Over the past 3 – 4 decades there have been many prisoners of war in these modern times. We have heard their stories of capture, torture, death, trial and for some, return. Not much has changed.
What has changed as a result of Stephen’s ministry and his willingness to claim Jesus as the savior is the fulfillment of the Christ’s message in Acts 1:8 ‘you will receive the power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.’ Stephen declared Jesus as Lord and revealed him as worthy of worship and praise. Luke the writer, shares this message because he desperately wants people to see Jesus to believe in His divine nature.
I found it interesting how Luke introduces Saul by name, saying Saul was there and approved of the stoning. The writer makes mention of him by name to draw attention to him as a man of influence. God has another plan in mind about Saul and he wanted everyone to remember his name and what he had done, thus it was spoken and written.
As I open my heart to allow the presence of the Holy Spirit in, He gives me strength and He gives me peace. When you recognize what a strong man of God Stephen was, we take that with us, we must remember why he endured to the end. When we need to endure the challenges we face, remember the face of Stephen and draw upon his example.
Many left the area; many stayed to be sent to prison and killed. I want to follow in Stephen’s steps and share the gospel message, not scattered or kept from sharing the gospel. As believers we must be in prayer and we must start at home. Our pastor Dennis prays weekly with 5 other pastors of other denominations here in Nixa and they pray for each other in ministry, their congregations, the community and how together we can reach the un-churched, to serve them and introduce them to Christ. They do this because it is the right thing to do. Christians are scattered over our land and have the common thread of the Holy Spirit. Introducing someone to have an opportunity to meet Christ is what God commanded us to do. We must care for the orphans and widows and go and make disciples.
Every opportunity you have, look up into the sky, whether it is cloudy, sunny or filled with dull gray storm clouds, know that Jesus is sitting at the right hand of God and is directing your life every moment of every day. Go house to house as Saul did, only go in the name of the Lord God Almighty.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, MO.
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
"Enjoy the Light"
Today's reading: 2 Samuel 22:29-30 (NIV)
29 You are my lamp, O LORD; the LORD turns my darkness into light. 30 With your help I can advance against a troop with my God I can scale a wall.
As I opened a book on my desk this evening, I came across this scripture and decided that before we start the next chapter in Acts, I would share a bit about darkness and light.
It seems as though there are experts everywhere in front of us, newspapers say so, advertising tell us that, television shows try to heal us, etc. Bookstores have a giant array for self-help books on any topic. Who are the people writing or speaking these messages that millions of people receive? What is truth and what isn’t; what is reality and what isn’t; what message is really being received? Reality is, people can believe lots of things from lots of people and still find themselves failing.
I visited with Deb tonight on the phone and if you have ever had a conversation with her in person or on-line or over the phone, you just know deep within that she would never want to say anything or write anything that would lead you astray. She only wants to bring God’s light into the world, and I mean literally the world. The Lord has been her lamp throughout her life and most recently in this place she and Jeff have found themselves.
Deb sends her love to each of you and says a warm thank you for your prayers these last few weeks. Feeling has come back to several of her fingers now and one last finger, as she puts it ‘is thawing out.” She knows that God has scaled this wall with her just as He did for David in his written song of praise. God has been her helper.
Please continue your prayers for Deb and her family for yet other health issues of their children have come to the forefront this week. Their daughter Rachel had a difficult surgery today to repair her body after her cancer surgery of two years ago. Their son David had an MRI today to help doctors get his seizures back under control.
Each day as we face the next wall that is before us, we must remember there is only one expert for us to turn our lives over to and that is God and into His word. His word will never fail us or lead us astray for He turns our darkest times into light.
Enjoy the light!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Today's reading: 2 Samuel 22:29-30 (NIV)
29 You are my lamp, O LORD; the LORD turns my darkness into light. 30 With your help I can advance against a troop with my God I can scale a wall.
As I opened a book on my desk this evening, I came across this scripture and decided that before we start the next chapter in Acts, I would share a bit about darkness and light.
It seems as though there are experts everywhere in front of us, newspapers say so, advertising tell us that, television shows try to heal us, etc. Bookstores have a giant array for self-help books on any topic. Who are the people writing or speaking these messages that millions of people receive? What is truth and what isn’t; what is reality and what isn’t; what message is really being received? Reality is, people can believe lots of things from lots of people and still find themselves failing.
I visited with Deb tonight on the phone and if you have ever had a conversation with her in person or on-line or over the phone, you just know deep within that she would never want to say anything or write anything that would lead you astray. She only wants to bring God’s light into the world, and I mean literally the world. The Lord has been her lamp throughout her life and most recently in this place she and Jeff have found themselves.
Deb sends her love to each of you and says a warm thank you for your prayers these last few weeks. Feeling has come back to several of her fingers now and one last finger, as she puts it ‘is thawing out.” She knows that God has scaled this wall with her just as He did for David in his written song of praise. God has been her helper.
Please continue your prayers for Deb and her family for yet other health issues of their children have come to the forefront this week. Their daughter Rachel had a difficult surgery today to repair her body after her cancer surgery of two years ago. Their son David had an MRI today to help doctors get his seizures back under control.
Each day as we face the next wall that is before us, we must remember there is only one expert for us to turn our lives over to and that is God and into His word. His word will never fail us or lead us astray for He turns our darkest times into light.
Enjoy the light!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO
www.aldersgatechurch.com
Monday, September 28, 2009
"It is Not the Final Call"
Today's reading: Acts 7:54-60 (NIV) 54When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56"Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
57At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.
59While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
The curtain rises for the climatic ending of Stephen’s ministry and the scene begins with the Sanhedrin men gnashing their teeth. The crowd went wild in response to Stephen’s testimony, fierce gnashing of teeth in anger and rage. Stage right we see Stephen, looking up, ever so confident in what he is seeing in front of his eyes; he goes on to announce to everyone “Look, I see the heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” What a power declaration in front of the entire audience that had gathered. Every last individual present heard his words and the men of Israel would not tolerate this claim.
What if, for 20 minutes, every ear in our houses of worship listened to every word of the sermon? What if, the good news was received by open hearts? Would the reaction of the people be as dynamic as with the scene at the end of Stephen’s life? Would the ones that hear rush with urgency to share the message? Or do many ‘cover our ears’ so to speak by nodding off during worship, or not opening our bibles to read the scripture, or write notes to the person next to us about where we are going to lunch after church?
The sand and dirt covered Stephen’s feet most likely, his clothes were torn as they drug him outside the walls of Jerusalem, cuts and wounds were gaping open as each stone hit his body. A familiar story is unfolding in front of the people’s eyes once again.
There is a difference this time; Stephen spoke of seeing the Glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Stephen declares the divinity of Jesus and affirms his resurrection! The Sunday sermon should be so powerfully filled with this message! Our lives must live in response to this message!
In center stage Stephen turns, looks at the men stoning him and spoke to Jesus. As you watch him fall to his knees, he speaks again to the Lord asking ‘do not hold this sin against them’ and falls asleep. A peace-filled ending to Stephen’s earthly life, but the curtain hasn’t closed on the message; the characters are you and I. The story lives on and we have Stephen to thank, God to answer to and Jesus to praise!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO
Today's reading: Acts 7:54-60 (NIV) 54When they heard this, they were furious and gnashed their teeth at him. 55But Stephen, full of the Holy Spirit, looked up to heaven and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. 56"Look," he said, "I see heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God."
57At this they covered their ears and, yelling at the top of their voices, they all rushed at him, 58dragged him out of the city and began to stone him. Meanwhile, the witnesses laid their clothes at the feet of a young man named Saul.
59While they were stoning him, Stephen prayed, "Lord Jesus, receive my spirit." 60Then he fell on his knees and cried out, "Lord, do not hold this sin against them." When he had said this, he fell asleep.
The curtain rises for the climatic ending of Stephen’s ministry and the scene begins with the Sanhedrin men gnashing their teeth. The crowd went wild in response to Stephen’s testimony, fierce gnashing of teeth in anger and rage. Stage right we see Stephen, looking up, ever so confident in what he is seeing in front of his eyes; he goes on to announce to everyone “Look, I see the heaven open and the Son of Man standing at the right hand of God.” What a power declaration in front of the entire audience that had gathered. Every last individual present heard his words and the men of Israel would not tolerate this claim.
What if, for 20 minutes, every ear in our houses of worship listened to every word of the sermon? What if, the good news was received by open hearts? Would the reaction of the people be as dynamic as with the scene at the end of Stephen’s life? Would the ones that hear rush with urgency to share the message? Or do many ‘cover our ears’ so to speak by nodding off during worship, or not opening our bibles to read the scripture, or write notes to the person next to us about where we are going to lunch after church?
The sand and dirt covered Stephen’s feet most likely, his clothes were torn as they drug him outside the walls of Jerusalem, cuts and wounds were gaping open as each stone hit his body. A familiar story is unfolding in front of the people’s eyes once again.
There is a difference this time; Stephen spoke of seeing the Glory of God and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. Stephen declares the divinity of Jesus and affirms his resurrection! The Sunday sermon should be so powerfully filled with this message! Our lives must live in response to this message!
In center stage Stephen turns, looks at the men stoning him and spoke to Jesus. As you watch him fall to his knees, he speaks again to the Lord asking ‘do not hold this sin against them’ and falls asleep. A peace-filled ending to Stephen’s earthly life, but the curtain hasn’t closed on the message; the characters are you and I. The story lives on and we have Stephen to thank, God to answer to and Jesus to praise!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO
Sunday, September 27, 2009
"Keep trying!"
Today's reading: Acts 7:51-53 (NIV)
51"You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit! 52Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— 53you who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it."
Stephen is exhausted and exasperated by now, his speech to the members of the Sanhedrin seemed to take forever and no one was really paying attention to him. He knows he must sum it up quickly. His words take on a different tone and right away two sentences end with exclamation marks.
There are times that I too exhaust myself emotionally when I am trying to explain myself with the right words but nothing happens. My voice gets louder, my speech quickens and I begin to repeat over and over the main point.
Stephen is trying to convince minds and save souls as he made this final attempt. He accused them of accepting God’s law but adamantly declared they did not follow it. Some of us can relate this to disciplining our children to have them remind us of our past indiscretions. Anger can take over and reactions are often harsh.
The foretelling of the coming of the Messiah runs throughout Old Testament scripture, and for the Jewish people to reject Jesus as the Messiah is to have uncircumcised hearts and ears. They adhered so strictly to the law of Moses that they just could not let their hearts be open to this revealed truth.
Why is it that we humans close our hearts and ears? We do it to each other; we do it to friends and family who are the very people we are closest to. Perhaps the Sanhedrin thought it a sign of weakness to believe the message that had come from their own scripture.
There will always be people so far from the Lord that we yearn for them to open their hearts. The Lord’s message of salvation is not over; we are His disciples just as Stephen was. We must embrace the power of the Holy Spirit and speak with all courage, power, wisdom and truth and the spirit will do the work of penetrating souls.
I don’t want to let my ego get the best of me. I want the Lord to have the best of me and that means I must continually seek opportunities to share the good news of the risen savior.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate Church
Nixa, MO.
http://www.aldersgatechurch.com/
Today's reading: Acts 7:51-53 (NIV)
51"You stiff-necked people, with uncircumcised hearts and ears! You are just like your fathers: You always resist the Holy Spirit! 52Was there ever a prophet your fathers did not persecute? They even killed those who predicted the coming of the Righteous One. And now you have betrayed and murdered him— 53you who have received the law that was put into effect through angels but have not obeyed it."
Stephen is exhausted and exasperated by now, his speech to the members of the Sanhedrin seemed to take forever and no one was really paying attention to him. He knows he must sum it up quickly. His words take on a different tone and right away two sentences end with exclamation marks.
There are times that I too exhaust myself emotionally when I am trying to explain myself with the right words but nothing happens. My voice gets louder, my speech quickens and I begin to repeat over and over the main point.
Stephen is trying to convince minds and save souls as he made this final attempt. He accused them of accepting God’s law but adamantly declared they did not follow it. Some of us can relate this to disciplining our children to have them remind us of our past indiscretions. Anger can take over and reactions are often harsh.
The foretelling of the coming of the Messiah runs throughout Old Testament scripture, and for the Jewish people to reject Jesus as the Messiah is to have uncircumcised hearts and ears. They adhered so strictly to the law of Moses that they just could not let their hearts be open to this revealed truth.
Why is it that we humans close our hearts and ears? We do it to each other; we do it to friends and family who are the very people we are closest to. Perhaps the Sanhedrin thought it a sign of weakness to believe the message that had come from their own scripture.
There will always be people so far from the Lord that we yearn for them to open their hearts. The Lord’s message of salvation is not over; we are His disciples just as Stephen was. We must embrace the power of the Holy Spirit and speak with all courage, power, wisdom and truth and the spirit will do the work of penetrating souls.
I don’t want to let my ego get the best of me. I want the Lord to have the best of me and that means I must continually seek opportunities to share the good news of the risen savior.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate Church
Nixa, MO.
http://www.aldersgatechurch.com/
Saturday, September 26, 2009
"Out of the temple & into the lives of man"
Today's reading: Acts 7:44-50 (NIV) 44"Our forefathers had the tabernacle of the Testimony with them in the desert. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. 45Having received the tabernacle, our fathers under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, 46who enjoyed God's favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. 47But it was Solomon who built the house for him.
48"However, the Most High does not live in houses made by men. As the prophet says: 49" 'Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me? says the Lord. Or where will my resting place be? 50Has not my hand made all these things?
Worship is important to God. We see in the last half of verse 44 that God directed Moses how to make the tabernacle.
The tabernacle was important to the Israelites as the stone tablets given to Moses by God remained there and in their company; it had not been destroyed or forgotten over the years. Yet Stephen knows that there is more to worshipping God than protecting the stone tablets in a safe container in a temple. Stephen points out that God does not live in houses made by man, he resides in the heavens and his footprints touch the earth.
God’s footprints are part of creation and remain with us now as we live in the Kingdom of God. God is timeless and unlimited in His love. He desires to be known by us. God has no boundaries either. You and I can not keep him in a box or in our church buildings, nor should we attempt to keep him to ourselves.
Being a witness of the mighty acts of God is what our lives must become. As a witness, we are obligated to God to give testimony of our faith. That is what Stephen is doing here, sharing his testimony through the words of the Old Testament to his people, for it is what they would recognize. Stephen longed for his new faith in Christ to become the faith his people. He was offering them a gift and some rejected that gift and some accepted. God has designed worship to be what He needs it to be in order to bring people to experience his saving grace.
Man must not change what God desires, as we make feeble attempts to do that, we fail. The best is yet to come in this kingdom and we must be part of the people of God, standing with God, telling of God so that He will dwell in the hearts of many more people each and every day.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Come, now is the time to worship lyrics by Brian Doerksen
Today's reading: Acts 7:44-50 (NIV) 44"Our forefathers had the tabernacle of the Testimony with them in the desert. It had been made as God directed Moses, according to the pattern he had seen. 45Having received the tabernacle, our fathers under Joshua brought it with them when they took the land from the nations God drove out before them. It remained in the land until the time of David, 46who enjoyed God's favor and asked that he might provide a dwelling place for the God of Jacob. 47But it was Solomon who built the house for him.
48"However, the Most High does not live in houses made by men. As the prophet says: 49" 'Heaven is my throne, and the earth is my footstool. What kind of house will you build for me? says the Lord. Or where will my resting place be? 50Has not my hand made all these things?
Worship is important to God. We see in the last half of verse 44 that God directed Moses how to make the tabernacle.
The tabernacle was important to the Israelites as the stone tablets given to Moses by God remained there and in their company; it had not been destroyed or forgotten over the years. Yet Stephen knows that there is more to worshipping God than protecting the stone tablets in a safe container in a temple. Stephen points out that God does not live in houses made by man, he resides in the heavens and his footprints touch the earth.
God’s footprints are part of creation and remain with us now as we live in the Kingdom of God. God is timeless and unlimited in His love. He desires to be known by us. God has no boundaries either. You and I can not keep him in a box or in our church buildings, nor should we attempt to keep him to ourselves.
Being a witness of the mighty acts of God is what our lives must become. As a witness, we are obligated to God to give testimony of our faith. That is what Stephen is doing here, sharing his testimony through the words of the Old Testament to his people, for it is what they would recognize. Stephen longed for his new faith in Christ to become the faith his people. He was offering them a gift and some rejected that gift and some accepted. God has designed worship to be what He needs it to be in order to bring people to experience his saving grace.
Man must not change what God desires, as we make feeble attempts to do that, we fail. The best is yet to come in this kingdom and we must be part of the people of God, standing with God, telling of God so that He will dwell in the hearts of many more people each and every day.
"Come, now is the time to worship
Come, now is the time to give your heart
Come, just as you are to worship
Come, just as you are before your God
One day every tongue will confess You are God
One day every tongue will confess You are God
One day every knee will bow
Still the greatest treasure remains for those,Who gladly choose you now,
Come."
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Come, now is the time to worship lyrics by Brian Doerksen
Friday, September 25, 2009
"Obedience - result of a lesson learned"
Today's reading: Acts 7:37-40 (NIV)
37"This is that Moses who told the Israelites, 'God will send you a prophet like me from your own people.' 38He was in the assembly in the desert, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; and he received living words to pass on to us.
39"But our fathers refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt. 40They told Aaron, 'Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt—we don't know what has happened to him!'
Just a brief reminder, the scripture passages I have been writing about are those Stephen was speaking to the Sanhedrin. The footnote in my bible states Stephen used the word ‘ekklesia’ translated as ‘assembly’ to describe the congregation or people of God in the dessert. Stephen’s point was that the giving of the law through Moses to the Jews was the sign of the covenant and to continue to be God’s covenant people, they would have to be obedient.
Being obedient is not a simple task. Some toddlers in their growing years are searching the world they live in as if they were the only ones there and obedience makes no sense to them. As the Israelites waited for Moses to return from Mt. Sinai, they quickly became impatient and their lack of obedience to God was demonstrated in their rush to ‘carve’ their own God.
We have two dogs in our house, both rescued; one is here in her forever home, but Emmitt is a ‘foster’ that came to us from a pound. This is our first attempt of fostering a rescue and we agreed to try it thinking it would be fun! He definitely captured our hearts right away and he plays well with others but that is about it. We have taken him into our home and find ourselves with a boxer who behaves like a toddler. He is in his own world, trying to figure out our world and his past has definitely affected his progress. Obedience training is not going well.
The Israelites have also lived very hard lives in the past and Moses is offering them a way to follow God and be freed from bondage. As they approached their new territory and grew impatient, they strayed from obedience to God into refusal to wait for the Lord.
Obedience is the result of a lesson learned and from this comparison we learn that our lives and surroundings can change as abruptly as they did for the Israelites and for our dear Emmitt. God’s covenant offers us a way to be His people and we must push every struggle away; every evil force of wickedness must be casted out by God and not followed by man. If we begin to accept our own struggled lives and can’t seem to let go of the past issues, we are taking it on as a new possession, and begin to worship that possession.
There is nothing tangible in this world that we can take hold of that will offer us eternal life with our Lord and Savior. We must reach our hands out to the master, let His touch change us to be obedient to Him and life will be blessed!
Lord, let us not become an Israelite or an Emmitt and reject what is being offered to us freely; your love and grace through Jesus Christ our savior. You have blessed us, Amen.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Today's reading: Acts 7:37-40 (NIV)
37"This is that Moses who told the Israelites, 'God will send you a prophet like me from your own people.' 38He was in the assembly in the desert, with the angel who spoke to him on Mount Sinai, and with our fathers; and he received living words to pass on to us.
39"But our fathers refused to obey him. Instead, they rejected him and in their hearts turned back to Egypt. 40They told Aaron, 'Make us gods who will go before us. As for this fellow Moses who led us out of Egypt—we don't know what has happened to him!'
Just a brief reminder, the scripture passages I have been writing about are those Stephen was speaking to the Sanhedrin. The footnote in my bible states Stephen used the word ‘ekklesia’ translated as ‘assembly’ to describe the congregation or people of God in the dessert. Stephen’s point was that the giving of the law through Moses to the Jews was the sign of the covenant and to continue to be God’s covenant people, they would have to be obedient.
Being obedient is not a simple task. Some toddlers in their growing years are searching the world they live in as if they were the only ones there and obedience makes no sense to them. As the Israelites waited for Moses to return from Mt. Sinai, they quickly became impatient and their lack of obedience to God was demonstrated in their rush to ‘carve’ their own God.
We have two dogs in our house, both rescued; one is here in her forever home, but Emmitt is a ‘foster’ that came to us from a pound. This is our first attempt of fostering a rescue and we agreed to try it thinking it would be fun! He definitely captured our hearts right away and he plays well with others but that is about it. We have taken him into our home and find ourselves with a boxer who behaves like a toddler. He is in his own world, trying to figure out our world and his past has definitely affected his progress. Obedience training is not going well.
The Israelites have also lived very hard lives in the past and Moses is offering them a way to follow God and be freed from bondage. As they approached their new territory and grew impatient, they strayed from obedience to God into refusal to wait for the Lord.
Obedience is the result of a lesson learned and from this comparison we learn that our lives and surroundings can change as abruptly as they did for the Israelites and for our dear Emmitt. God’s covenant offers us a way to be His people and we must push every struggle away; every evil force of wickedness must be casted out by God and not followed by man. If we begin to accept our own struggled lives and can’t seem to let go of the past issues, we are taking it on as a new possession, and begin to worship that possession.
There is nothing tangible in this world that we can take hold of that will offer us eternal life with our Lord and Savior. We must reach our hands out to the master, let His touch change us to be obedient to Him and life will be blessed!
Lord, let us not become an Israelite or an Emmitt and reject what is being offered to us freely; your love and grace through Jesus Christ our savior. You have blessed us, Amen.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
"Where are you standing?"
Today's reading: Acts 7:30-36 (New International Version)
30"After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. 31When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to look more closely, he heard the Lord's voice: 32'I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.' Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look.
33"Then the Lord said to him, 'Take off your sandals; the place where you are standing is holy ground. 34I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.
35"This is the same Moses whom they had rejected with the words, 'Who made you ruler and judge?' He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36He led them out of Egypt and did wonders and miraculous signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the desert.
I am guessing at the time God spoke to Moses from the burning bush, Moses was about 55 – 60 years old, after all he was grown when fled Egypt and he had lived a lifetime in 40 years. We know from the book of Exodus that Moses married and had children during this forty years, but what I don’t know is if Moses had any regrets. I would hope not, I would hope that he recognized he was standing in God’s presence, living to fulfill God’s ultimate plan for his people.
I love the song “Standing on Holy Ground” especially sung by Barbra Streisand. I listened to it just a few nights ago which made this scripture especially meaningful. I want to imagine God’s voice speaking to Moses; I want to imagine the heat of the dessert sand on his feet. Something miraculous was happening at that moment - it was the presence of God speaking to Moses sending him forth to carry out His plan for Israel. The task Moses had ahead of him was to be the divine work of God.
When you and I respond to God we are in His divine plan, we are in His presence on holy ground. I can not say that I have heard the audible voice of God, but some people have. I recognize God’s voice speaking to me as the Holy Spirit’s nudge inside my heart and soul, and often time it is to become more involved in a specific ministry (His plan). His holy ground might also be a place where, or even when, something terrible has happened, which brings us to our knees and through which we humbly seek the presence of God, the redemptive power of God in the very midst of that terrible happening.
I don’t want to live my life out having regrets and I hope Moses didn’t. He had another forty years ahead of him in the wilderness, attempting to lead a group of people that often failed to believe in him and in God. We are told in the OT that Moses never entered the promise land. What I want to take from that is to always remember when I do what God calls me to do, what I do becomes a divine task. Where ever we recognize God's presence, that place becomes holy ground. Understanding this is to know I will have no regrets. Let us praise, praise God now, praise him anyhow, for we are standing in his sweet presence on holy ground.
Before I sign off, I want you to know Deb is at home recovering from her spinal surgery and says she is very tired but feeling much better. She sends her love and looks forward to getting back in communication with you.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
Today's reading: Acts 7:30-36 (New International Version)
30"After forty years had passed, an angel appeared to Moses in the flames of a burning bush in the desert near Mount Sinai. 31When he saw this, he was amazed at the sight. As he went over to look more closely, he heard the Lord's voice: 32'I am the God of your fathers, the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.' Moses trembled with fear and did not dare to look.
33"Then the Lord said to him, 'Take off your sandals; the place where you are standing is holy ground. 34I have indeed seen the oppression of my people in Egypt. I have heard their groaning and have come down to set them free. Now come, I will send you back to Egypt.
35"This is the same Moses whom they had rejected with the words, 'Who made you ruler and judge?' He was sent to be their ruler and deliverer by God himself, through the angel who appeared to him in the bush. 36He led them out of Egypt and did wonders and miraculous signs in Egypt, at the Red Sea and for forty years in the desert.
I am guessing at the time God spoke to Moses from the burning bush, Moses was about 55 – 60 years old, after all he was grown when fled Egypt and he had lived a lifetime in 40 years. We know from the book of Exodus that Moses married and had children during this forty years, but what I don’t know is if Moses had any regrets. I would hope not, I would hope that he recognized he was standing in God’s presence, living to fulfill God’s ultimate plan for his people.
I love the song “Standing on Holy Ground” especially sung by Barbra Streisand. I listened to it just a few nights ago which made this scripture especially meaningful. I want to imagine God’s voice speaking to Moses; I want to imagine the heat of the dessert sand on his feet. Something miraculous was happening at that moment - it was the presence of God speaking to Moses sending him forth to carry out His plan for Israel. The task Moses had ahead of him was to be the divine work of God.
When you and I respond to God we are in His divine plan, we are in His presence on holy ground. I can not say that I have heard the audible voice of God, but some people have. I recognize God’s voice speaking to me as the Holy Spirit’s nudge inside my heart and soul, and often time it is to become more involved in a specific ministry (His plan). His holy ground might also be a place where, or even when, something terrible has happened, which brings us to our knees and through which we humbly seek the presence of God, the redemptive power of God in the very midst of that terrible happening.
I don’t want to live my life out having regrets and I hope Moses didn’t. He had another forty years ahead of him in the wilderness, attempting to lead a group of people that often failed to believe in him and in God. We are told in the OT that Moses never entered the promise land. What I want to take from that is to always remember when I do what God calls me to do, what I do becomes a divine task. Where ever we recognize God's presence, that place becomes holy ground. Understanding this is to know I will have no regrets. Let us praise, praise God now, praise him anyhow, for we are standing in his sweet presence on holy ground.
Before I sign off, I want you to know Deb is at home recovering from her spinal surgery and says she is very tired but feeling much better. She sends her love and looks forward to getting back in communication with you.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
"Two questions - how do you respond?"
Today's reading: Acts 7:27-29 (New International Version)
27"But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, 'Who made you ruler and judge over us? 28Do you want to kill me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?' 29When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons.
These three verses describe true human nature. Instead of sounding like adults, they sound like children. “Who made you in charge?” is a question I often asked growing up, in an indignant tone of voice, of my brothers. No doubt they ask it of me, but of course I don’t remember that.
The man who questioned Moses is rejecting him totally by asking such a question in front of everyone. The scripture does not describe the crowd(s) but there must have been some unrest because of the murder the day before and because of the current mistreatment taking place. Upon being questioned very straightforwardly, Moses did what most humans would do, fled the scene. I can imagine it now, Moses saying to himself “I gotta get out of here, I really messed up and they are gonna kill me if they get a hold of me.”
I work in a fast-paced environment, some days it seems as if we can’t slow down to breathe with phones ringing, people walking into the office and questions coming from both sides. So it is definitely important for me to stay focused on my tasks, but also focus on the greater good. I must admit, I don’t always. My intentional prayers asking the spirit to be present with me all day and for me to recognize He is there easily get lost. Often, it is 4:30 p.m. and I have fallen short.
Even though Moses fled the scene, he could not flee from God and neither can you or I. God is there with us even when we don’t take the time to recognize his presence. Can you feel His mighty power and His grace? Of course we can, when we open our hearts and mind and souls to allow Him to penetrate us!
If someone were to ask you the second question Moses was asked - do you want to do to me what you did to him/her yesterday? (Paraphrase mine) – how would you feel? I think I would feel empty and embarrassed. The question itself would remind me of my previous failings and I would suddenly want to crawl under the desk and hide.
What do we do if we know we are headed down the wrong path? It is important to recognize it, own up to it and face the facts. Then we must reach out to God for help. Pray, ask a trusted friend to keep encouraging you, read God’s word daily to plant the seed of righteousness within your heart, recall how others have witnessed to you and build upon their experiences to grow yours. Determine what is right and what is wrong and make absolutely certain what you do and say helps to further the kingdom and give all glory to God.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Today's reading: Acts 7:27-29 (New International Version)
27"But the man who was mistreating the other pushed Moses aside and said, 'Who made you ruler and judge over us? 28Do you want to kill me as you killed the Egyptian yesterday?' 29When Moses heard this, he fled to Midian, where he settled as a foreigner and had two sons.
These three verses describe true human nature. Instead of sounding like adults, they sound like children. “Who made you in charge?” is a question I often asked growing up, in an indignant tone of voice, of my brothers. No doubt they ask it of me, but of course I don’t remember that.
The man who questioned Moses is rejecting him totally by asking such a question in front of everyone. The scripture does not describe the crowd(s) but there must have been some unrest because of the murder the day before and because of the current mistreatment taking place. Upon being questioned very straightforwardly, Moses did what most humans would do, fled the scene. I can imagine it now, Moses saying to himself “I gotta get out of here, I really messed up and they are gonna kill me if they get a hold of me.”
I work in a fast-paced environment, some days it seems as if we can’t slow down to breathe with phones ringing, people walking into the office and questions coming from both sides. So it is definitely important for me to stay focused on my tasks, but also focus on the greater good. I must admit, I don’t always. My intentional prayers asking the spirit to be present with me all day and for me to recognize He is there easily get lost. Often, it is 4:30 p.m. and I have fallen short.
Even though Moses fled the scene, he could not flee from God and neither can you or I. God is there with us even when we don’t take the time to recognize his presence. Can you feel His mighty power and His grace? Of course we can, when we open our hearts and mind and souls to allow Him to penetrate us!
If someone were to ask you the second question Moses was asked - do you want to do to me what you did to him/her yesterday? (Paraphrase mine) – how would you feel? I think I would feel empty and embarrassed. The question itself would remind me of my previous failings and I would suddenly want to crawl under the desk and hide.
What do we do if we know we are headed down the wrong path? It is important to recognize it, own up to it and face the facts. Then we must reach out to God for help. Pray, ask a trusted friend to keep encouraging you, read God’s word daily to plant the seed of righteousness within your heart, recall how others have witnessed to you and build upon their experiences to grow yours. Determine what is right and what is wrong and make absolutely certain what you do and say helps to further the kingdom and give all glory to God.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
"To assume or Not to assume?"
Acts 7:20-26 (New International Version)
20"At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. [A]For three months he was cared for in his father's house. 21When he was placed outside, Pharaoh's daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. 22Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action.
23"When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his fellow Israelites. 24He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. 25Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. 26The next day Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, 'Men, you are brothers; why do you want to hurt each other?'"
I am not certain that we can truly understand this story if only read from the New Testament. At first read, there just seems to be something missing for me, perhaps it is the missing part about Moses floating in the basket amongst the reeds or the phrase he was powerful in speech. Since he decided to visit his fellow Israelites it seems he must know them quite well.
Moses was making an assumption of what his people would think, but he was wrong. Do we assume too much in our lives today? Making assumptions about other people is not a trait that I would want to pass on to my own children, but I know that I have. I am a strong willed individual and often share my opinions about situations and people when I probably should not. I need more education in the wisdom of God.
Arguments or disagreements with family, friends or co-workers are not good times unless we use them as a learning opportunity. The holiday season seems to be a time that families struggle with each other because of all the varying opinions we have about celebrating.
Oh come to my house, no – this year you have to travel or let’s have a small celebration without gifts this year. One of the best is – let’s go out to eat on Thanksgiving instead of preparing the entire meal. Don’t bring that last one up in our family, it won’t fly. We had to cook turkey and stuffing at home three days after my husbands double knee surgery, kids wouldn't have it any other way.
I believe I can safely say (or am I assuming) that most of us have had regrets about past assumptions. We should strive to learn from them by asking the important questions as Moses did – why do you want to hurt each other? They probably didn’t set out intending to hurt one another and neither do we, but it is a fact that despite all our good intentions, sometimes we do.
Our God of wonders is holy and just and He will teach us His ways. I have that faith and believe it - not merely assuming it of God. Go pick up the closest Bible to you and read any verse, in any chapter, in any book, in whatever version you choose and you will see that He WILL give you understanding and wisdom. When He knows you are ready, you be powerful in speech and action.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Acts 7:20-26 (New International Version)
20"At that time Moses was born, and he was no ordinary child. [A]For three months he was cared for in his father's house. 21When he was placed outside, Pharaoh's daughter took him and brought him up as her own son. 22Moses was educated in all the wisdom of the Egyptians and was powerful in speech and action.
23"When Moses was forty years old, he decided to visit his fellow Israelites. 24He saw one of them being mistreated by an Egyptian, so he went to his defense and avenged him by killing the Egyptian. 25Moses thought that his own people would realize that God was using him to rescue them, but they did not. 26The next day Moses came upon two Israelites who were fighting. He tried to reconcile them by saying, 'Men, you are brothers; why do you want to hurt each other?'"
I am not certain that we can truly understand this story if only read from the New Testament. At first read, there just seems to be something missing for me, perhaps it is the missing part about Moses floating in the basket amongst the reeds or the phrase he was powerful in speech. Since he decided to visit his fellow Israelites it seems he must know them quite well.
Moses was making an assumption of what his people would think, but he was wrong. Do we assume too much in our lives today? Making assumptions about other people is not a trait that I would want to pass on to my own children, but I know that I have. I am a strong willed individual and often share my opinions about situations and people when I probably should not. I need more education in the wisdom of God.
Arguments or disagreements with family, friends or co-workers are not good times unless we use them as a learning opportunity. The holiday season seems to be a time that families struggle with each other because of all the varying opinions we have about celebrating.
Oh come to my house, no – this year you have to travel or let’s have a small celebration without gifts this year. One of the best is – let’s go out to eat on Thanksgiving instead of preparing the entire meal. Don’t bring that last one up in our family, it won’t fly. We had to cook turkey and stuffing at home three days after my husbands double knee surgery, kids wouldn't have it any other way.
I believe I can safely say (or am I assuming) that most of us have had regrets about past assumptions. We should strive to learn from them by asking the important questions as Moses did – why do you want to hurt each other? They probably didn’t set out intending to hurt one another and neither do we, but it is a fact that despite all our good intentions, sometimes we do.
Our God of wonders is holy and just and He will teach us His ways. I have that faith and believe it - not merely assuming it of God. Go pick up the closest Bible to you and read any verse, in any chapter, in any book, in whatever version you choose and you will see that He WILL give you understanding and wisdom. When He knows you are ready, you be powerful in speech and action.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Monday, September 21, 2009
"The Song of Deborah"
Today’s reading: Daniel 4:1-2
King Nebuchadnezzar, 1”To the peoples, nations and men of every language, who live in all the world: may you prosper greatly! 2 It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me.”
I am straying from the book of Acts today (I don't think Deb will mind) for I have miraculous signs and wonders to share with you. I spoke with Deb’s husband Jeff this evening. When he answered the phone his voice seemed upbeat, now I have never spoken to him on the phone before, so I really had no idea what his voice would sound like. But I was intent in my listening for a sign.
And Jeff spoke “Deb is doing very well, the surgeon was pleased, he did some things he was not expecting to do, but also did not have to do other things he had planned. It was a successful surgery.” I can imagine it was the physician’s pleasure to tell Jeff and their family this good news.
The experience of a day in a surgery waiting room is different for everyone. Since I work in a hospital, I have had the opportunity to work the waiting room desk, updating the families about the progress of their loved ones. I have waited in the surgery waiting room in the dark of night for a friend’s friend that I didn’t even know – well worth the wait as our friend expressed his gratitude. Over the course of 35 years of marriage, I have sat in the waiting area 8 times for surgery on my husband’s knees and one long period of time during open heart surgery of 5 bypasses. I guess you could say I have a bit of experience.
No matter how often Jeff has been in a waiting room with his parishioners over the years of his ministry, nothing, absolutely nothing can prepare you for the span of time while waiting for that sign and wonder you so desperately desire to receive about your spouse.
Something that weighed heavy on Deb’s mind was waking up from the anesthesia; for 8 years ago she was in a coma like state for a couple of days and had many struggles. By this evening, she was sitting up in her bed, talking and relaxing – oh what a wonderful Most High God we have! Staff had even found a recliner for Jeff, so he also had been cared for.
Much like King Nebuchadnezzar’s eager desire to tell of his blessing, Deb shares her devotions for daily living with the world, as people in 7 countries subscribe to her blog posting. Tonight as you say a gentle, peaceful prayer for Deb’s great fortune today, take note of the miraculous signs and wonders all around you.
Deb would want you to take pleasure in them!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
Today’s reading: Daniel 4:1-2
King Nebuchadnezzar, 1”To the peoples, nations and men of every language, who live in all the world: may you prosper greatly! 2 It is my pleasure to tell you about the miraculous signs and wonders that the Most High God has performed for me.”
I am straying from the book of Acts today (I don't think Deb will mind) for I have miraculous signs and wonders to share with you. I spoke with Deb’s husband Jeff this evening. When he answered the phone his voice seemed upbeat, now I have never spoken to him on the phone before, so I really had no idea what his voice would sound like. But I was intent in my listening for a sign.
And Jeff spoke “Deb is doing very well, the surgeon was pleased, he did some things he was not expecting to do, but also did not have to do other things he had planned. It was a successful surgery.” I can imagine it was the physician’s pleasure to tell Jeff and their family this good news.
The experience of a day in a surgery waiting room is different for everyone. Since I work in a hospital, I have had the opportunity to work the waiting room desk, updating the families about the progress of their loved ones. I have waited in the surgery waiting room in the dark of night for a friend’s friend that I didn’t even know – well worth the wait as our friend expressed his gratitude. Over the course of 35 years of marriage, I have sat in the waiting area 8 times for surgery on my husband’s knees and one long period of time during open heart surgery of 5 bypasses. I guess you could say I have a bit of experience.
No matter how often Jeff has been in a waiting room with his parishioners over the years of his ministry, nothing, absolutely nothing can prepare you for the span of time while waiting for that sign and wonder you so desperately desire to receive about your spouse.
Something that weighed heavy on Deb’s mind was waking up from the anesthesia; for 8 years ago she was in a coma like state for a couple of days and had many struggles. By this evening, she was sitting up in her bed, talking and relaxing – oh what a wonderful Most High God we have! Staff had even found a recliner for Jeff, so he also had been cared for.
Much like King Nebuchadnezzar’s eager desire to tell of his blessing, Deb shares her devotions for daily living with the world, as people in 7 countries subscribe to her blog posting. Tonight as you say a gentle, peaceful prayer for Deb’s great fortune today, take note of the miraculous signs and wonders all around you.
Deb would want you to take pleasure in them!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
"Wisdom from God"
Today's reading: Acts 7:9-19 (NIV)
9"Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him 10and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh King of Egypt; so he made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace.
11"Then a famine struck all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our fathers could not find food. 12When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our fathers on their first visit. 13On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was, and Pharaoh learned about Joseph's family. 14After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, seventy-five in all. 15Then Jacob went down to Egypt, where he and our fathers died. 16Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money.
17"As the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt greatly increased. 18Then another king, who knew nothing about Joseph, became ruler of Egypt. 19He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our forefathers by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die.
Here we see that Stephen is continuing to remind the Sanhedrin the story of their ancestry, possibly to emphasize that the Lord God had been in control of His relationship with them from the beginning. He was taking a great risk doing this as they were teachers of the law and most certainly were aware of history and didn’t need Stephen to remind them.
I am a middle child, fitting between two boys; it was my older brother than I seemed to pick on when I was in first and second grade. We played outside a lot and for some reason, I had the ability to tie him to a tree and he couldn’t get loose. I’d go off with the rest of the neighborhood kids and the fun would continue. Inevitably my brother would get free and go tattle on me. Siblings sometimes do hang each other out to dry. Some things never seem to change.
What I see as important in this refresher course to the Sanhedrin is first, God gave Joseph wisdom and the goodwill of the king; secondly, Joseph eventually forgave his brothers for abandoning him and sent them for his father Jacob to bring the entire family out of the famine. This was a very rough society to live in, jealousy, even though not mentioned in the scriptures, had to be prevalent or why would the brothers have done such a thing, or why would the Pharaoh force the people to get rid of their newborn babies.
I have experienced jealousy in my own life in the past and I can say it is an emotion that can take everything good about a person and throw it to the wind. How we react to our jealous feelings certainly makes or breaks a relationship. God will give us wisdom if we only ask and He will also give us the ability to forgive our family members that become strangers to us. Take a little time this day and make a note of those family members you need to forgive or ask forgiveness from. Then begin the journey to release yourself from bondage and follow God’s direction knowing He will fulfill his promises to you.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgatechurch, Nixa, MO.
Today's reading: Acts 7:9-19 (NIV)
9"Because the patriarchs were jealous of Joseph, they sold him as a slave into Egypt. But God was with him 10and rescued him from all his troubles. He gave Joseph wisdom and enabled him to gain the goodwill of Pharaoh King of Egypt; so he made him ruler over Egypt and all his palace.
11"Then a famine struck all Egypt and Canaan, bringing great suffering, and our fathers could not find food. 12When Jacob heard that there was grain in Egypt, he sent our fathers on their first visit. 13On their second visit, Joseph told his brothers who he was, and Pharaoh learned about Joseph's family. 14After this, Joseph sent for his father Jacob and his whole family, seventy-five in all. 15Then Jacob went down to Egypt, where he and our fathers died. 16Their bodies were brought back to Shechem and placed in the tomb that Abraham had bought from the sons of Hamor at Shechem for a certain sum of money.
17"As the time drew near for God to fulfill his promise to Abraham, the number of our people in Egypt greatly increased. 18Then another king, who knew nothing about Joseph, became ruler of Egypt. 19He dealt treacherously with our people and oppressed our forefathers by forcing them to throw out their newborn babies so that they would die.
Here we see that Stephen is continuing to remind the Sanhedrin the story of their ancestry, possibly to emphasize that the Lord God had been in control of His relationship with them from the beginning. He was taking a great risk doing this as they were teachers of the law and most certainly were aware of history and didn’t need Stephen to remind them.
I am a middle child, fitting between two boys; it was my older brother than I seemed to pick on when I was in first and second grade. We played outside a lot and for some reason, I had the ability to tie him to a tree and he couldn’t get loose. I’d go off with the rest of the neighborhood kids and the fun would continue. Inevitably my brother would get free and go tattle on me. Siblings sometimes do hang each other out to dry. Some things never seem to change.
What I see as important in this refresher course to the Sanhedrin is first, God gave Joseph wisdom and the goodwill of the king; secondly, Joseph eventually forgave his brothers for abandoning him and sent them for his father Jacob to bring the entire family out of the famine. This was a very rough society to live in, jealousy, even though not mentioned in the scriptures, had to be prevalent or why would the brothers have done such a thing, or why would the Pharaoh force the people to get rid of their newborn babies.
I have experienced jealousy in my own life in the past and I can say it is an emotion that can take everything good about a person and throw it to the wind. How we react to our jealous feelings certainly makes or breaks a relationship. God will give us wisdom if we only ask and He will also give us the ability to forgive our family members that become strangers to us. Take a little time this day and make a note of those family members you need to forgive or ask forgiveness from. Then begin the journey to release yourself from bondage and follow God’s direction knowing He will fulfill his promises to you.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgatechurch, Nixa, MO.
Saturday, September 19, 2009
"It is Time to Worship"
Today's reading: Acts 7:6-8 (New International Version)
6God spoke to him in this way: 'Your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated four hundred years. 7But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves,' God said, 'and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place.8Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision. And Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs.
Here it is again “God spoke”. When the first words of a verse start with that phrase it is pretty assured what comes next is going to be powerful and ears should listen. All of scripture is divine with every word containing power and direction however; it is our human mind that causes the reader to put emphasis on one phrase over another. This is a good reason to ask the spirit to lead us as we approach and read the holy words.
Here we see again the dialogue between God and Abraham where God reveals the future of Abraham’s descendants. I am not so sure I would want to begin my families lineage knowing in advance of their plight. Four hundred years is a long time, probably 5 generations! God promises more than the covenant though, He promises they will survive and come out of slavery into worship!
I love going to Sunday morning worship; it is a retrieve from a week of enslavement to the world culture. A time to turn everything over to the Lord, bow down before him and give him our hearts. The act of worship has so much potential. As Christians, we worship the one true God, Yahweh, creator of heaven and earth. I am so thankful that Jesus Christ made worship available to me now and not 400 years from now.
It was important for Abraham to be circumcised and continue to pass this act of circumcision to his sons and their sons. Like our worship today, it means so much more than the physical, it means the total belief in God and what He offers us in the beyond! Dedicating our lives to His purpose to glorify Him. It is not about us, it is all about Him.
Sunday at Aldersgate is our annual “Homecoming” (formerly Rally Day) and pastor Dennis is going to be preaching out of Zephaniah and sharing how God has been and still is God of this City (Nixa). We believe, there is so much more to be done. Two of the praise songs we will be singing are Step by Step and Mighty to Save. I know that Step by Step He leads me and Abraham knew it also. So let’s not wait 400 years to worship Christ our savior, for He is mighty to save!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
Today's reading: Acts 7:6-8 (New International Version)
6God spoke to him in this way: 'Your descendants will be strangers in a country not their own, and they will be enslaved and mistreated four hundred years. 7But I will punish the nation they serve as slaves,' God said, 'and afterward they will come out of that country and worship me in this place.8Then he gave Abraham the covenant of circumcision. And Abraham became the father of Isaac and circumcised him eight days after his birth. Later Isaac became the father of Jacob, and Jacob became the father of the twelve patriarchs.
Here it is again “God spoke”. When the first words of a verse start with that phrase it is pretty assured what comes next is going to be powerful and ears should listen. All of scripture is divine with every word containing power and direction however; it is our human mind that causes the reader to put emphasis on one phrase over another. This is a good reason to ask the spirit to lead us as we approach and read the holy words.
Here we see again the dialogue between God and Abraham where God reveals the future of Abraham’s descendants. I am not so sure I would want to begin my families lineage knowing in advance of their plight. Four hundred years is a long time, probably 5 generations! God promises more than the covenant though, He promises they will survive and come out of slavery into worship!
I love going to Sunday morning worship; it is a retrieve from a week of enslavement to the world culture. A time to turn everything over to the Lord, bow down before him and give him our hearts. The act of worship has so much potential. As Christians, we worship the one true God, Yahweh, creator of heaven and earth. I am so thankful that Jesus Christ made worship available to me now and not 400 years from now.
It was important for Abraham to be circumcised and continue to pass this act of circumcision to his sons and their sons. Like our worship today, it means so much more than the physical, it means the total belief in God and what He offers us in the beyond! Dedicating our lives to His purpose to glorify Him. It is not about us, it is all about Him.
Sunday at Aldersgate is our annual “Homecoming” (formerly Rally Day) and pastor Dennis is going to be preaching out of Zephaniah and sharing how God has been and still is God of this City (Nixa). We believe, there is so much more to be done. Two of the praise songs we will be singing are Step by Step and Mighty to Save. I know that Step by Step He leads me and Abraham knew it also. So let’s not wait 400 years to worship Christ our savior, for He is mighty to save!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
Friday, September 18, 2009
"One word will do - Jesus"
Today's reading: Acts 7: 1 - 5
1Then the high priest asked him, "Are these charges true?"
2To this he replied: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran. 3'Leave your country and your people,' God said, 'and go to the land I will show you.'
4"So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. 5He gave him no inheritance here, not even a foot of ground. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child.
Witnesses testified before the Sanhedrin of what Stephen had been preaching, he (Stephen) now finds himself with the opportunity to speak before the council. This was no time for stammering, beating around the bush, or pointing fingers, it was time to present the message in a manner which would raise council’s ears.
As one of the seven in charge of the local food bank, Stephen was in a leadership role for certain. His voice would need to carry over the crowds reaching and grasping for food for nourishment. The people had known hunger, so I can imagine a bit of anxiety waiting for the next meal. Watch where Stephen begins - “Brothers and fathers, listen to me!” – must have been spoken in a commanding voice for attention and authority. Next he declares how the God of Glory appeared to their father Abraham.
We have two dogs in our home, one more defiant than the other (the newest to the pack of course). When I need to get my point across to one of the dogs, my voice resonates deeper if needed, especially if I need to get my point across. First I position myself to gain eye contact and speak short commands (as I learned in dog obedience class) such as no, stop, sit, stay, off, down. Repeating the word over and over is no help with a dog because if you keep doing that, a dog knows instinctively how many you will say and not respond on command. (Another lesson)
Stephen, an intelligent man, seized the moment by reminding his audience how the God of Glory appeared to their father Abraham, gave him directions and sent him on his journey, the journey that forever changed the course of the Hebrew people and the possession of the land of Israel. God’s promise of descendants at the time seemed improbable and even reading it now, centuries later as we discover Abraham had no children of his own.
It seems improbable to me right now that our dog Emmitt will give up his quest for freedom or his yearning to destruct. However, those more experienced than I, keep assuring me that in time he too will begin to trust his master because he will know that his master does return to feed and love him. Stephen began his speech with the truth about God and as Abraham followed the master’s commands, God kept his promise of a child, and the journey continued. We must be the ones to experience God’s glory and be bold and share the word – one word will do – Jesus.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
Today's reading: Acts 7: 1 - 5
1Then the high priest asked him, "Are these charges true?"
2To this he replied: "Brothers and fathers, listen to me! The God of glory appeared to our father Abraham while he was still in Mesopotamia, before he lived in Haran. 3'Leave your country and your people,' God said, 'and go to the land I will show you.'
4"So he left the land of the Chaldeans and settled in Haran. After the death of his father, God sent him to this land where you are now living. 5He gave him no inheritance here, not even a foot of ground. But God promised him that he and his descendants after him would possess the land, even though at that time Abraham had no child.
Witnesses testified before the Sanhedrin of what Stephen had been preaching, he (Stephen) now finds himself with the opportunity to speak before the council. This was no time for stammering, beating around the bush, or pointing fingers, it was time to present the message in a manner which would raise council’s ears.
As one of the seven in charge of the local food bank, Stephen was in a leadership role for certain. His voice would need to carry over the crowds reaching and grasping for food for nourishment. The people had known hunger, so I can imagine a bit of anxiety waiting for the next meal. Watch where Stephen begins - “Brothers and fathers, listen to me!” – must have been spoken in a commanding voice for attention and authority. Next he declares how the God of Glory appeared to their father Abraham.
We have two dogs in our home, one more defiant than the other (the newest to the pack of course). When I need to get my point across to one of the dogs, my voice resonates deeper if needed, especially if I need to get my point across. First I position myself to gain eye contact and speak short commands (as I learned in dog obedience class) such as no, stop, sit, stay, off, down. Repeating the word over and over is no help with a dog because if you keep doing that, a dog knows instinctively how many you will say and not respond on command. (Another lesson)
Stephen, an intelligent man, seized the moment by reminding his audience how the God of Glory appeared to their father Abraham, gave him directions and sent him on his journey, the journey that forever changed the course of the Hebrew people and the possession of the land of Israel. God’s promise of descendants at the time seemed improbable and even reading it now, centuries later as we discover Abraham had no children of his own.
It seems improbable to me right now that our dog Emmitt will give up his quest for freedom or his yearning to destruct. However, those more experienced than I, keep assuring me that in time he too will begin to trust his master because he will know that his master does return to feed and love him. Stephen began his speech with the truth about God and as Abraham followed the master’s commands, God kept his promise of a child, and the journey continued. We must be the ones to experience God’s glory and be bold and share the word – one word will do – Jesus.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
"I can feel His mighty power"
Today's Reading: Acts 6:7-10 (NIV)
7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
8Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. 9Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, 10but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.
“Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place, I can fell His mighty power and his grace” are beautiful words from a worship song written in 1977 and now resides in the United Methodist Hymnal. If you are familiar with the melody, sing the sentence again and soak in the fact that the Lord is present with you right now where ever you are.
Lord, I thank you for your presence in my life this evening, it was evident your spirit was present with the praise team at practice. May we worship you always and share with others what you have done in our lives. Amen
I am in awe of how God weaves in and out of every aspect of life. His spirit is like fog in one sense. As you look out into a foggy river valley, notice how the moisture of the fog penetrates every space possible, it encompasses all of space. The Lord’s presence is that way too, He is everywhere before us, with us and behind us, just as He was with Stephen. The church in Jerusalem was growing daily, miracles were being performed and signs and wonders of God’s power displayed right before their eyes. Jerusalem was and still is a volatile place, but peace was there and will be there again.
Tonight at praise team practice, I saw and heard voices and instruments blending in the spirit of worship. As I move the screens to the songs lyrics, I watch and listen alone up in the balcony and a peace overcomes me. I know during that time frame each of us are where we should be, preparing our hearts for worship and to lead others in worship. It is humbling to know God allows me to assist in the worship experience in such a small way. I am humbled and grateful.
You see, nothing is small to God, because everything we are and everything we do is his work; eternal work for the kingdom! Just as God grew the church through Stephen and the apostles, God will continue to shows us miracles. We should be awaking everyday expecting miracles.
Monday, Deb will be awaking before daybreak - expecting a miracle, as her surgery is that morning at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis where she will undergo neurosurgery on her upper spine. Humans will be repairing discs, fusing her spine, inserting hardware and removing bone fragments, all with God’s power. As we each recognize from this scripture that all wisdom is from God, all works are of God – we hold within us the knowledge that nothing will stand against Deb as she faces this ordeal. Deb, Jeff and your children and grandchildren, stay obedient to your faith as you face these next several months.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Today's Reading: Acts 6:7-10 (NIV)
7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
8Now Stephen, a man full of God's grace and power, did great wonders and miraculous signs among the people. 9Opposition arose, however, from members of the Synagogue of the Freedmen (as it was called)—Jews of Cyrene and Alexandria as well as the provinces of Cilicia and Asia. These men began to argue with Stephen, 10but they could not stand up against his wisdom or the Spirit by whom he spoke.
“Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place, I can fell His mighty power and his grace” are beautiful words from a worship song written in 1977 and now resides in the United Methodist Hymnal. If you are familiar with the melody, sing the sentence again and soak in the fact that the Lord is present with you right now where ever you are.
Lord, I thank you for your presence in my life this evening, it was evident your spirit was present with the praise team at practice. May we worship you always and share with others what you have done in our lives. Amen
I am in awe of how God weaves in and out of every aspect of life. His spirit is like fog in one sense. As you look out into a foggy river valley, notice how the moisture of the fog penetrates every space possible, it encompasses all of space. The Lord’s presence is that way too, He is everywhere before us, with us and behind us, just as He was with Stephen. The church in Jerusalem was growing daily, miracles were being performed and signs and wonders of God’s power displayed right before their eyes. Jerusalem was and still is a volatile place, but peace was there and will be there again.
Tonight at praise team practice, I saw and heard voices and instruments blending in the spirit of worship. As I move the screens to the songs lyrics, I watch and listen alone up in the balcony and a peace overcomes me. I know during that time frame each of us are where we should be, preparing our hearts for worship and to lead others in worship. It is humbling to know God allows me to assist in the worship experience in such a small way. I am humbled and grateful.
You see, nothing is small to God, because everything we are and everything we do is his work; eternal work for the kingdom! Just as God grew the church through Stephen and the apostles, God will continue to shows us miracles. We should be awaking everyday expecting miracles.
Monday, Deb will be awaking before daybreak - expecting a miracle, as her surgery is that morning at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis where she will undergo neurosurgery on her upper spine. Humans will be repairing discs, fusing her spine, inserting hardware and removing bone fragments, all with God’s power. As we each recognize from this scripture that all wisdom is from God, all works are of God – we hold within us the knowledge that nothing will stand against Deb as she faces this ordeal. Deb, Jeff and your children and grandchildren, stay obedient to your faith as you face these next several months.
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
"Faced With Choosing"
Today's Reading: Acts 6:1-7 (NIV)
1In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."
5This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
Last evening I had the opportunity to speak with Deb on the phone for about a half hour, she was at the Coffee House on the Campus of Lindenwood University. This ministry is one that she helped begin along with several others from two churches I believe. It is a ministry she loves. Deb talked about the important work of sharing the gospel message and we all know from reading her devotions over the years, that she has the power of the Holy Spirit within her to plant the gospel in the minds and hearts of others.
If any of the readers out there know me, you know that my passion has not been focused on sharing the gospel message in the same way as Deb and this is my first attempt at writing devotional readings. My passion lies with leading, administration, teaching and organizing. It is hard for me to say ‘no’ to a task when it means taking on a project from the beginning and working with other people to see the task come to fruition. Don’t misunderstand me that sharing the gospel is not my focus, it is the most important mission, I merely approach that mission in a different way.
Deb has been enjoying walking and praying out loud and is feeling much less stressed as she has taken time to focus on healing portions of herself. The apostles were being pulled in all directions as the group began to grow and not all needed tasks were being taken care of properly. Their main focus of sharing the gospel was now being pulled like a rubber band in all directions and nerves were on fire amongst the people. Deb was also pushing herself in all directions. Both were faced with a decision to make and so they stepped back, sought others to assist and prayed and laid hands on (vs. 5 & 6).
Have you ever shared the act of ‘laying on of hands” to someone? It is a powerful experience from both the giving and receiving ends. It is an act of passing on the authority to someone, trusting and relying upon them as willing, able and qualified by the spirit’s presence in their lives.
Let us continue to pray for God to reign over Deb’s health as her plan of care unfolds before her Thursday at her appointment. Let us continue to pray for the word of God to spread and the number of disciples increase (vs. 7 revisited).
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
Today's Reading: Acts 6:1-7 (NIV)
1In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Grecian Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food. 2So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, "It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God in order to wait on tables. 3Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them 4and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word."
5This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism. 6They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.
7So the word of God spread. The number of disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly, and a large number of priests became obedient to the faith.
Last evening I had the opportunity to speak with Deb on the phone for about a half hour, she was at the Coffee House on the Campus of Lindenwood University. This ministry is one that she helped begin along with several others from two churches I believe. It is a ministry she loves. Deb talked about the important work of sharing the gospel message and we all know from reading her devotions over the years, that she has the power of the Holy Spirit within her to plant the gospel in the minds and hearts of others.
If any of the readers out there know me, you know that my passion has not been focused on sharing the gospel message in the same way as Deb and this is my first attempt at writing devotional readings. My passion lies with leading, administration, teaching and organizing. It is hard for me to say ‘no’ to a task when it means taking on a project from the beginning and working with other people to see the task come to fruition. Don’t misunderstand me that sharing the gospel is not my focus, it is the most important mission, I merely approach that mission in a different way.
Deb has been enjoying walking and praying out loud and is feeling much less stressed as she has taken time to focus on healing portions of herself. The apostles were being pulled in all directions as the group began to grow and not all needed tasks were being taken care of properly. Their main focus of sharing the gospel was now being pulled like a rubber band in all directions and nerves were on fire amongst the people. Deb was also pushing herself in all directions. Both were faced with a decision to make and so they stepped back, sought others to assist and prayed and laid hands on (vs. 5 & 6).
Have you ever shared the act of ‘laying on of hands” to someone? It is a powerful experience from both the giving and receiving ends. It is an act of passing on the authority to someone, trusting and relying upon them as willing, able and qualified by the spirit’s presence in their lives.
Let us continue to pray for God to reign over Deb’s health as her plan of care unfolds before her Thursday at her appointment. Let us continue to pray for the word of God to spread and the number of disciples increase (vs. 7 revisited).
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, Mo.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
"What a friend - what a privilege."
Today's reading: Acts 5:40-42 (NIV)
40His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Tonight I thought it might be fun to ask my husband Phil what he thought about this passage of scripture. First I summarized the previous scriptures that I had written about and then read this passage out loud to him. Then he says to me ‘well, what’s your question?” in that voice of why do you need to ask. I really didn’t have a question, I just wanted to hear from him that possibly what I was thinking about was right. Validation is what I was looking for but I wasn’t going to tell him that.
He has a way of teaching someone by asking questions, making comments and having you discover the answers yourself, this causes you to think for yourself rather than settling for his answer, because he doesn’t often give the answers, he affirms them.
Gamaliel’s way of teaching may have been similar; remember, he shared examples in order to hopefully persuade the officers into a correct decision. By flogging the apostles before releasing them, they saved face amongst the crowds that may have rioted if a killing was attempted.
As we turn to the point of view of the apostles, we read that they left rejoicing! When was the last time you got beat up in a public place in front of everyone and went away rejoicing? In today’s society, most people would express themselves irrationally in front of television news cameras and reporters about how horrible the crime was against them - putting the focus on the criminal act. Instead, the apostles focused on the privilege of suffering the same inflictions that Jesus suffered and accepted for the sins of mankind. (Read that sentence again, slowly) They knew God had spared them for a greater purpose!
What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and grief’s to bear! What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer. Whatever your style of teaching may be, remember it is the gospel message you are sharing, whether it be in public or private; in church’s; places of work or in a small group in your home; God has chosen you to share His message. May it be so, day after day – and that you never stop!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Today's reading: Acts 5:40-42 (NIV)
40His speech persuaded them. They called the apostles in and had them flogged. Then they ordered them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. 41The apostles left the Sanhedrin, rejoicing because they had been counted worthy of suffering disgrace for the Name. 42Day after day, in the temple courts and from house to house, they never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Christ.
Tonight I thought it might be fun to ask my husband Phil what he thought about this passage of scripture. First I summarized the previous scriptures that I had written about and then read this passage out loud to him. Then he says to me ‘well, what’s your question?” in that voice of why do you need to ask. I really didn’t have a question, I just wanted to hear from him that possibly what I was thinking about was right. Validation is what I was looking for but I wasn’t going to tell him that.
He has a way of teaching someone by asking questions, making comments and having you discover the answers yourself, this causes you to think for yourself rather than settling for his answer, because he doesn’t often give the answers, he affirms them.
Gamaliel’s way of teaching may have been similar; remember, he shared examples in order to hopefully persuade the officers into a correct decision. By flogging the apostles before releasing them, they saved face amongst the crowds that may have rioted if a killing was attempted.
As we turn to the point of view of the apostles, we read that they left rejoicing! When was the last time you got beat up in a public place in front of everyone and went away rejoicing? In today’s society, most people would express themselves irrationally in front of television news cameras and reporters about how horrible the crime was against them - putting the focus on the criminal act. Instead, the apostles focused on the privilege of suffering the same inflictions that Jesus suffered and accepted for the sins of mankind. (Read that sentence again, slowly) They knew God had spared them for a greater purpose!
What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and grief’s to bear! What a privilege to carry, everything to God in prayer. Whatever your style of teaching may be, remember it is the gospel message you are sharing, whether it be in public or private; in church’s; places of work or in a small group in your home; God has chosen you to share His message. May it be so, day after day – and that you never stop!
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Monday, September 14, 2009
"The voice of Gamaliel"
Today's reading: Acts 5:33-39 (NIV)
33When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35Then he addressed them: "Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."
First the apostles were incarcerated, then released by the voice of an angel, began teaching about new life again, confronted by the crowds, brought before the Sanhedrin for questioning and possible trial, defended themselves quite well I might say in yesterday’s lesson and now they are sent outside for recess! At first glance I am thinking man; by sending them out for recess someone is having second thoughts.
But as I read deeper into the purpose of this scripture it becomes clear that isn’t so. The clear message here is when their actions are of God, the end result will happen no matter what is done to them! Cautiously, Gamaliel presents his case …‘men of Israel, consider carefully ….” and begins to remind them of the results of previous acts!
I have been teaching myself how to make graphics and movie projects on the computer. There are times I just wish someone would come over and show me the steps as I have spent hours going back and forth to learn one little trick about a layer in a graphic (then promptly forgot how I did it, age is my excuse). Even when I remind myself of the things I have tried over and over again that don’t work , I sometimes justify another attempt, when in reality reading the tutorials would have benefited me much more.
Gamaliel knew the law, probably wrote the tutorials, so was he now a friend of the apostles? Probably not, but he knew from experience what happens when one keeps doing the wrong things over and over again.
When you and I are in ministry, truthfully witnessing for the Lord, sincerely helping someone in need, we must praise God from deep within our heart and give Him the glory. The final outcome will be blessed and be fruitful. If you hear a voice in your mind questioning if what you are doing is right, that just might be your Gamaliel challenging you to make certain you and God are in the activity together for His kingdom. If you are not in sync with God’s will, frustration, division and failure are certain. God has given you the incredible gift of the Holy Spirit; open your heart to his presence, his calling and direction. He is there!
Shalom to Deb and her friends,
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
Today's reading: Acts 5:33-39 (NIV)
33When they heard this, they were furious and wanted to put them to death. 34But a Pharisee named Gamaliel, a teacher of the law, who was honored by all the people, stood up in the Sanhedrin and ordered that the men be put outside for a little while. 35Then he addressed them: "Men of Israel, consider carefully what you intend to do to these men. 36Some time ago Theudas appeared, claiming to be somebody, and about four hundred men rallied to him. He was killed, all his followers were dispersed, and it all came to nothing. 37After him, Judas the Galilean appeared in the days of the census and led a band of people in revolt. He too was killed, and all his followers were scattered. 38Therefore, in the present case I advise you: Leave these men alone! Let them go! For if their purpose or activity is of human origin, it will fail. 39But if it is from God, you will not be able to stop these men; you will only find yourselves fighting against God."
First the apostles were incarcerated, then released by the voice of an angel, began teaching about new life again, confronted by the crowds, brought before the Sanhedrin for questioning and possible trial, defended themselves quite well I might say in yesterday’s lesson and now they are sent outside for recess! At first glance I am thinking man; by sending them out for recess someone is having second thoughts.
But as I read deeper into the purpose of this scripture it becomes clear that isn’t so. The clear message here is when their actions are of God, the end result will happen no matter what is done to them! Cautiously, Gamaliel presents his case …‘men of Israel, consider carefully ….” and begins to remind them of the results of previous acts!
I have been teaching myself how to make graphics and movie projects on the computer. There are times I just wish someone would come over and show me the steps as I have spent hours going back and forth to learn one little trick about a layer in a graphic (then promptly forgot how I did it, age is my excuse). Even when I remind myself of the things I have tried over and over again that don’t work , I sometimes justify another attempt, when in reality reading the tutorials would have benefited me much more.
Gamaliel knew the law, probably wrote the tutorials, so was he now a friend of the apostles? Probably not, but he knew from experience what happens when one keeps doing the wrong things over and over again.
When you and I are in ministry, truthfully witnessing for the Lord, sincerely helping someone in need, we must praise God from deep within our heart and give Him the glory. The final outcome will be blessed and be fruitful. If you hear a voice in your mind questioning if what you are doing is right, that just might be your Gamaliel challenging you to make certain you and God are in the activity together for His kingdom. If you are not in sync with God’s will, frustration, division and failure are certain. God has given you the incredible gift of the Holy Spirit; open your heart to his presence, his calling and direction. He is there!
Shalom to Deb and her friends,
Dorothy Brucks
Aldersgate UMC, Nixa, Mo.
Sunday, September 13, 2009
"Exalted - a word of action"
Today's Reading: Acts 5:27-32 (NIV)
27Having brought the apostles; they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28"We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name," he said. "Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood."
29Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men! 30The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. 31God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. 32We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him."
The atmosphere in this scene must have been full of spiritual dimensions from both sides; good and evil. “We gave you strict orders…” sounds very authoritarian to me, something parents most likely say with teenage drivers in the house. “We must obey God rather than men!” had to be shared by every person captured before the court, all in unison because they believed it and lived it.
Then begins the storytelling of how God raised Jesus from the dead and YOU hung him from a tree. The intonation of voices could have been a grave attempt at manipulating the captors into taking responsibility for the death of Jesus Christ. The Jews had indeed crucified Christ, but they were not about to admit it, for evil was spinning around all of them.
The splendor of this story comes in the words “God exalted …” that phrase from this portion of the scripture simply jumps off of the page! When I say the word exalted out loud it reveals the power of God and I tremble at the sound of the word.
There are times in our daily routines when an extraordinary opportunity to be His vessel arrives right in front of us. When we live a life according to God’s will (His orders) so we are not in conflict with the evil forces of the world - He will exalt us to be one with him. He will ultimately give us every word that we need at any given moment. Ask and we will speak in unison with Him.
Dorothy Brucks, holding Deb in my prayers
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
Today's Reading: Acts 5:27-32 (NIV)
27Having brought the apostles; they made them appear before the Sanhedrin to be questioned by the high priest. 28"We gave you strict orders not to teach in this name," he said. "Yet you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching and are determined to make us guilty of this man's blood."
29Peter and the other apostles replied: "We must obey God rather than men! 30The God of our fathers raised Jesus from the dead—whom you had killed by hanging him on a tree. 31God exalted him to his own right hand as Prince and Savior that he might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. 32We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him."
The atmosphere in this scene must have been full of spiritual dimensions from both sides; good and evil. “We gave you strict orders…” sounds very authoritarian to me, something parents most likely say with teenage drivers in the house. “We must obey God rather than men!” had to be shared by every person captured before the court, all in unison because they believed it and lived it.
Then begins the storytelling of how God raised Jesus from the dead and YOU hung him from a tree. The intonation of voices could have been a grave attempt at manipulating the captors into taking responsibility for the death of Jesus Christ. The Jews had indeed crucified Christ, but they were not about to admit it, for evil was spinning around all of them.
The splendor of this story comes in the words “God exalted …” that phrase from this portion of the scripture simply jumps off of the page! When I say the word exalted out loud it reveals the power of God and I tremble at the sound of the word.
There are times in our daily routines when an extraordinary opportunity to be His vessel arrives right in front of us. When we live a life according to God’s will (His orders) so we are not in conflict with the evil forces of the world - He will exalt us to be one with him. He will ultimately give us every word that we need at any given moment. Ask and we will speak in unison with Him.
Dorothy Brucks, holding Deb in my prayers
Aldersgate UMC
Nixa, MO.
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