The mission of hope

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:13 NIV

From Paphos, Paul and his companions sailed to Perga in Pamphylia, where [John Mark] left them to return to Jerusalem.

Good morning!

It is difficult to fully grasp the devastation that occurred after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck the country of Haiti last week. We hear eyewitness accounts from reporters filming the disaster; we see indescribable pictures printed on the front pages of our newspapers. The only thing we may not fully comprehend is the stench of death that permeates the air. The death toll continues to rise exponentially. Thousands died instantly, while just as many, if not more, endured the terror of being buried alive. Family members are digging with their bare hands, trying to save and free their children, parents, and friends. Many have lost family members who they may never be identified in the rubble. Several United Methodist missionaries and mission teams were working in Haiti when the earthquake struck. Some have already passed away from injuries sustained when the buildings collapsed. They were an integral part of our family of faith, and we grieve their loss and pray for the ones who are missing them dearly today.

The humanitarian need in this country is greater than ever before. I was caught up in an online news article, which was filmed as survivors gathered together to pray, seeking God’s help for the monumental task of rebuilding. We know there is so much more here than the rebuilding of homes, re-establishing a clean water source, food for all, and providing medical necessities for those in need. Who will bring hope to the hopeless? Would you be willing to hold a hurting child in your arms, offer comfort to a grieving widow, or take the hand of an elderly man whose only family has seemingly disappeared?

There is no doubt in my mind that this missionary journey will be hard. From Scripture, we are not completely clear as to why John Mark left Paul and Barnabas, returning home to Jerusalem. Some scholars speculate that he may have become homesick or simply frustrated with his traveling companions. It is certainly possible that John Mark became physically ill, and, in an attempt to protect the others from catching his disease, he willingly went home. Spreading the Gospel message in places where no one had heard of Jesus prior to their arrival had to be an overwhelming adventure for three new missionaries. Will seeds of faith planted along the way spring up from the dry, cracked soil, taking root and flourishing in the everlasting light of His love?

In the upcoming months, many volunteers from around the world will leave the comfort of their own homes to travel to Haiti, hoping to make a lasting difference for another human heart. Many will support mission teams with charitable donations of money and supplies for all the laborers who are working in the field. All of us can pray for the power and presence of the Holy Spirit to fill Haiti, for the everlasting light of Christ is the hope of the world.

Jesus called his followers to go and make disciples of all nations. May our own lives reflect the love we profess, as we reach around the world, offering His hope and help to our sister country in great need.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

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

Waiting for the fog to lift

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:11-12 NIV

[Paul said to Elymas] 11 “Now the hand of the Lord is against you. You are going to be blind, and for a time you will be unable to see the light of the sun.” Immediately mist and darkness came over [Elymas], and he groped about, seeking someone to lead him by the hand. 12 When the proconsul saw what had happened, he believed, for he was amazed at the teaching about the Lord.

Good morning!

There is a freezing fog warning this morning in the community where I live. It is so dark outside that I am a little nervous about driving. I have a jam packed calendar today; appointments and commitments which I want to keep. I’m wondering when this fog will lift. Have you ever experienced a time in your life when everything was a blur, and nothing seemed to be clear cut? Do you ever lose your direction in a heavy, freezing fog?

Faith often comes in moments of darkness. We find ourselves wallowing around in a deep pit, shoveled by our own filthy hands. I confess that the Lord sometimes has no alternative than to leave me groping around in the dark, so that He can deal with my stubborn streak. We comprehend the gravity of our sin when we find ourselves stranded in a cold, dark fog. How often have you prayed for the fog to lift?

When God temporarily blinded Elymas, we know he found himself suddenly groping around in the dark, seeking someone to lead him by the hand. He was anxiously waiting for the fog to lift. The Scripture is unclear whether Elymas chose to repent of his sin right then and reach out for the hand of Jesus. What we do know is that Sergius Paulus, the proconsul of Paphos, saw what had happened, and raised his hands high, inviting Jesus Christ to come into his heart. He was amazed by the teaching and wonder working power of our Lord.

When we seek the Truth, we often find it in the middle of the dark. Reach out for the hand of Jesus Christ today. He is the only One who can lift the fog hanging over your life. If you witness your neighbor struggling in a dark place, take stock of the lesson and learn from it. Do not hesitate to give your whole heart today to Jesus Christ. Confess your sins, the things that have kept you in a dark, freezing fog, and seek His forgiveness today. Jesus will bring you out of the darkness and into His light. His light is the light of life.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

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

Grave consequences

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:9-10 NIV

9 Then Saul, who was also called Paul, filled with the Holy Spirit, looked straight at Elymas and said, 10 “You are a child of the devil and an enemy of everything that is right! You are full of all kinds of deceit and trickery. Will you never stop perverting the right ways of the Lord?”

Good morning!

At first glance, the Apostle Paul’s words may seem harsh. The truth is - all of us need a little tough love every now and then, especially when our thoughts, words and actions are leading others astray. Elymas, also known as Bar-Jesus, had been hired on the Proconsul’s payroll, specifically to help him discern Truth. Elymas chose to believe in and worship false gods. He practiced sorcery, and encouraged his employer to do the same. Lost amid his own strange delusions, Elymas became an enemy of the Lord Jesus Christ. Have you ever been misled by someone you trust? Are you responsible for leading others away from the Truth?

Each of us will make life choices that carry grave consequences. Our words and actions bear witness to the faith we profess. We must be very certain in whom we choose to place our faith, because our lives utterly depend upon it. With so many religious traditions and philosophies of thought practiced around the world, how do we know for certain who to believe?

Paul understood the heart of Elymas. Paul had once persecuted believers and put many of these new Christian converts to death. It was only when Jesus Christ appeared before him, knocking Paul off his high horse and causing him to go instantly blind, that Paul realized he had been misinformed, and thereby was misleading others in faith. Paul found Christ’s mercy and forgiveness poured out for him at the foot of the cross. Is it no wonder that Paul chose to speak the harsh words which Elymas desperately needed to hear?

It can be excruciatingly painful to be confronted with the Truth. The arms of Jesus Christ are long enough to reach you, no matter where you are or what you have previously believed. Take a step of faith today and ask the Father to reveal His Truth to you. A personal testimony is often borne from the adversities we experience in life. When you read the eyewitness accounts of men and women, just like you, who first doubted and now believe; when you ask Jesus Christ to come into your heart and be Lord of your life, doubts will seemingly disappear in the Truth you’ve received at the foot of the cross.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

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

The faith factor

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:8 NIV

8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for that is what his name means) opposed [Barnabas and Paul] and tried to turn the proconsul from the faith.

Good morning!

The pictures on television are devastating. I could only watch so much before I dropped to my knees in a pool of tears. It is unimaginable that one of our sister nations has been ripped to shreds after a 7.0 magnitude earthquake occurred just two days ago in Haiti.

In a country where the unemployment rate is well over 50%, this earthquake has caused a catastrophic situation for thousands of people who live in this country. People are missing; families cannot locate their loved ones. As we see the injured emerge from the rubble, we watch in utter horror, as they lay in the streets bleeding to death, with broken bones and broken hearts, waiting for someone, anyone to help them. Aircraft from around the world are arriving with much needed food, water, and medical supplies, but there is no one there to help unload the emergency provisions and distribute to the needy. It would seem we cannot get there fast enough to help those in immediate need. What would this feel like if it were our country – our families and friends? To whom would we turn in our time of need?

Can you imagine holding a dying child in your arms, trying to comfort them, knowing there is no where to seek medical attention? What word would you offer that could make an everlasting difference, and bring hope and comfort to a wee one suffering in pain? Who would comfort you in your grief?

The faith factor is a necessity in times of devastation. We often think we can live on comfortably in the lifestyle we’ve grown accustomed to. As long as our own family is fine, we do not have the need to look beyond our own walls and spend time worrying about our brothers and sisters dying in the streets. I don’t know how we can become so self-absorbed; and yet, it often takes a massive foundational quake for mankind to feel their heart strings resonate with love and concern for their fellow man. Would you want to be like Elymas, trying to turn your brother away from the only One who brings hope to the hopeless, who heals broken hearts, who saves us by His grace?

In tumultuous days, hold on to the faith that you know is true! Jesus Christ came to save the whole world; the rich, the poor – He came for all of us. We must respond to the people of Haiti, and there is no time to waste. How can you make a lasting difference at such a time as this? Pray and ask the Lord for His healing power over a country that was demolished in a matter of seconds. Give what you can – every dollar will make a difference when there is such a great need. Ask the Lord how He would have you serve Him in this situation. Volunteer your time at your local church and find out how you can become personally involved in making a difference in the lives of those affected by the earthquake. The United Methodist Church will be there offering prayers, presence, gifts, service and its living witness to a country desperate to receive the hope of the world. If you want to help the people of Haiti, please consider making a donation today to UMCOR – the United Methodist Committee on Relief at:

http://secure.gbgm-umc.org/donations/umcor/donate.cfm?id=3018760&code=418325

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Second opinion

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:6-7 NIV

6 They traveled through the whole island, until they came to Paphos. There they met a Jewish sorcerer and false prophet named Bar-Jesus, 7 who was an attendant of the proconsul, Sergius Paulus. The proconsul, an intelligent man, sent for Barnabas and Saul because he wanted to hear the Word of God.

Good morning!

Whenever we face a major decision involving our present and future, it is always good to obtain a second opinion before selecting the appropriate path. People face life changing decisions every single day. Do we buy our dream home while the market is down, risking the possibility of losing our jobs after signing a thirty-year mortgage and potentially losing our home in the fray? I have fallen in love, but will this love last a lifetime? When is the best time to start a family? Can we afford to raise a child, educate, clothe and feed him in this economy? How much money do we actually need to retire and live comfortably for potentially forty or fifty years after we quit working? Should I follow the advice of my personal physician, and have the surgical procedure he recommends?

Intelligent men and women seek out the truth of a matter, especially when it directly impacts the course of one’s life. Sergius Paulus was the proconsul, a high official in the town of Paphos. He was well-educated and wholly devoted to the position he held. Sergius Paulus solicited the assistance of a certain spiritual advisor, to help guide him in his spiritual beliefs. The proconsul was seeking the truth, and received questionable information from his contracted sorcerer, Bar-Jesus, also known by the name Elymas. Sergius Paulus chose to seek a second opinion from Christian converts Paul and Barnabas, who were traveling across the island of Cyprus, spreading the Gospel message of Jesus Christ.

When it comes to making a decision on the eternal direction of your life, it is a good thing to seek a second opinion. Open your mind and heart to Christ’s life-giving message today. If you are seeking the truth, pick up a Bible today and begin reading about Jesus. Ask the Lord to help you better understand His message. Visit your local church and speak with the pastor, to help you in your understanding of the Word. The decision you make as to whom you will trust with your life, will impact your present, your future, and your eternal home. Get the best advisor you can find: ask God to reveal His living Truth to you today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Early Riser

Today’s Reading: Psalm 5:3 NIV

In the morning, O Lord, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.

Good morning!

Our pretty kitty, Faith, is an early riser! She cannot wait for Jeff and I to get up and spend time playing with her before work. Every morning, Faith begins to lick my face, letting me know she wants some love and affection. I’ve learned my place in Faith’s life. Faith lives here, and I am a just a border. She allows me live here, as long as I answer to her beck and call. There is no question in my mind who is boss around here.

When I was a child, my parents never allowed my sister and I to “sleep in.” We were up every morning at 6am when KMOX® radio would begin its programming with playing The Lord’s Prayer® and a John Phillips Sousa March. Mom and Dad were in a strict routine, firmly believing that the day begins before sun-up, and ends shortly after night-fall. I married a night owl. Jeff does his best work late at night. After 9pm, if I try to pick up a book and read, I fall asleep before I get through the first paragraph. Jeff loves to spend time with the Lord in the wee early morning hours, beginning at midnight and lasting often until 2am. About the time Jeff finally goes to sleep, I am beginning to wake up. It is a strange phenomenon; how our sleep schedules affect the way we approach living life.

Ever since I took a spill in my garage last fall, I’ve had trouble sleeping. Normally, I’m down for six hours, and awake fully refreshed and ready to begin a new day. It doesn’t seem to work that way for me anymore. I find myself needing cat naps at frequent intervals. Because I cannot lay flat for long periods of time, I’ve had to break up my sleep cycle. Sometimes, I find myself awake late at night, and often want to sleep in just a little bit later in the mornings. As a Christian adult, I’ve set aside the early morning hours to spend time with the Lord in prayer, praise, and study. There are times, especially since the fall, when I feel guilt over robbing God out of the first fruits of my day. I am convinced He does not appreciate my lack of focus on Him, not one little bit.

This morning, Faith woke me up. I got up for a moment, and when I went to crawl into bed, I lost my balance, hitting my head against the wall. Ironically, my head did not hurt nearly as much as my neck and shoulder. Sometimes it takes a lightning bolt to get my undivided attention. This was definitely a holy moment – a physical and mental message from God to get up and get moving. God used my pretty kitty to remind me of the importance of an early morning talk with Him. After all, He is the Only One who gives me fresh breath and a brand new life to live each day.

Why waste another minute this morning? I invite you to come and enjoy the early morning hours with the Lord. He hears our voices and answers our prayers, as we wait with great anticipation and hope.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Unfamiliar territory

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:4-5 NIV

4 The two of them [Paul and Barnabas], sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. 5 When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John [Mark] was with them as their helper.

Good morning!

This was it! The beginning of a brand new adventure – the first of many missionary journeys abroad! How did Paul and Barnabas decide where to begin? Every year, our missions and outreach ministry teams begin the process of discerning where to plant new seed of faith in their communities, cities, and surrounding countries. We cannot quench the spiritual excitement that comes from launching a new ministry in a new location. Is it difficult discerning where to begin?

Paul, Barnabas and John Mark went with one purpose in mind – to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ everywhere they went. Their mission was possible, due in full to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is easy to jump ahead of the Lord, taking matters into our own hands and not fully waiting and relying upon Him to lead us. This human tendency is a clear recipe for disaster. I am excited to be part of a prayer team at Faith Church, where we fully submit to discerning and listening for the Lord’s lead in every aspect of our outreach ministries to the community where we live. The Apostle Paul knew a lot about the power of prayer; he practiced it every minute of every day. His spiritual ear became so acute that he did not miss out on the direction Christ would have him take. We can learn a great deal from the very first missionary journey of Paul, Barnabas, and John Mark.

I imagine Barnabas was excited to have the opportunity to take Christ’s message of salvation to his home town. He grew up on the island of Cyprus, and it was a privilege to share the Good News with his faith community; the Jewish people whom he dearly loved. It can be disappointing when we experience rejection while trying to tell our family and friends about what Jesus has done for us. We want so much for all to know Christ. When our words seem to fall on deaf ears, it can be discouraging. Yet, we do not lose hope, for we know that the Word of God will penetrate and reach far beyond what we can begin to see with physical eyes. Seeds of faith are never wasted. You will never know who may choose to share the light you leave behind.

Are you thinking about taking a mission trip? Are you having difficulty deciding where to begin? Pour your heart’s desire out to the Lord Jesus Christ in prayer today, and wait for His discerning spirit to guide you in the next steps. How will the Lord choose to use you to spread His Gospel around the world this year?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

In-The-Body Experience

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:2-3 NIV

2 While they were worshipping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them” 3 So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.

Good morning!

I watched a television program last week on “near-death” or “out-of-body” experiences, listening to several personal accounts by folks who had been classified as clinically dead following an injury or illness. They shared their memories from the moment their hearts stopped beating until they were revived. Their recollections, extraordinarily vivid and unforgettable, were vastly different; yet bore one single testimony – there is definitely an afterlife. Have you ever lived to tell about a near-death experience?

Jesus taught His disciples and all who follow Him about the wages of sin. When we give our whole hearts to the Lord, it is because, somewhere, deep inside, we realize that our sin-sick human nature leads to death. It takes a spiritual near-death experience to recognize our need for a deep, personal relationship with the Savior. Only Jesus Christ has the power to redeem us, and that is why He willingly died and rose again, to set us forever free from the death’s grip. The moment you become a Christian, the shackles of death disappear and your soul is forever held in the palm of Christ’s nail-scarred hands.

Jesus instructed His disciples to gather together often to worship, fast and pray. Are you attending worship with other Christian disciples? If not, you are missing out on the most important facet of faith-filled living – an in-the-body experience. Throughout the Book of Acts, we see examples of Christians gathering together to seek the Lord’s guidance over their daily lives. Ordinary people with extraordinary gifts become servant leaders by the Holy Spirit’s hand. Worship is not a choice – it is a pure spiritual necessity, just like our physical need for water and food. We fast to proclaim God’s glory and control over our lives. You may struggle with fasting food, especially if you have a medical condition like diabetes. Think about other things that you can fast to glorify God, like free time spent in study and prayer, or fast-food, taking the money you would have used for a drive-thru meal and give it away to a local food bank so that hungry families can be fed. Fasting and praying should be a daily discipline; yet, brings greater fruit when shared together in the body. Isn’t it time that you find a place of worship that you can call home?

This morning, I will be with my Faith family, as we join hands in worship together. Today is the perfect day to come into the house of the Lord! Won’t you join me at Faith Church? We can fast and pray together in Jesus' name! May the Lord Jesus Christ be glorified today as we worship Him in spirit and in truth. There is nothing like an in-the-body experience to lift your spirit for living life to its fullest!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Eternal optimist

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:1 NIV

1 In the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod the tetrarch) and Saul.

Good morning!

While visiting The Holy Land Experience® in Orlando, Florida, I purchased a 500 piece jigsaw puzzle entitled, Approaching Storm. It is a picture of Jesus, Peter, James and John, on a fishing boat, gazing out over the Sea of Galilee. If I were headed into a life storm, I would definitely want to be in the boat with Jesus.

I love working puzzles! I enjoy looking at the various shapes and colors of each piece and dreaming of how they will one day all fit together to create one miraculous picture. When my friend, Samantha, came to visit earlier this week, I couldn’t wait to open this brand new puzzle and begin putting the pieces together with her. I told Sam that I thought the two of us could finish it in just a few hours. I saw the look of dismay creep across her face. Let’s just say she was not quite as optimistic as I was. If you know me well, then you know that I am and will always be an eternal optimist!

We probably started the puzzle too late in the day to give it our best effort. Earlier, we had spent several hours visiting with my mother, and my daughter’s family. We went shopping together at one of our favorite local discount stores, and enjoyed hot soup and sandwiches at a nearby deli. There was so much to do and so little time to do it! When we arrived home, it was dark and cold outside. It took an eternity just to find and finish the framing pieces of my new jigsaw. Neither of us could locate one missing piece in the frame, and it is still missing today. Samantha contends that Jesus must have stolen it! I insisted that Jesus doesn’t steal puzzle pieces; He steals our hearts. Who couldn’t help but fall totally in love with the Master puzzle maker, as He authors and perfects our very lives?

In the church at Antioch, we know there were five very unique men, who came from completely different backgrounds and life experiences. Together, they possessed a spiritual gift mix that created a beautiful picture of what the church of Jesus Christ should be around the world. It is imperative that we recognize the intrinsic spiritual beauty of each and every person who falls in love with the Lord Jesus Christ. It may seem a little like a disjointed jigsaw puzzle at first, when you look at the all the players clumped together in a huddle. We wonder how in the world our Lord could take this motley group of people, many with rough edges, and fashion a beautiful portrait of the Father’s love for all the world to see! Every person is vital to the spreading of Christ's Gospel message.

I need help finding that one missing piece! Just as this puzzle cannot be a finished picture until all pieces are on the table and accounted for, the Father longs for all people, everywhere, to give their whole hearts to the Lord Jesus Christ. What will you do to help reach your family, friends and neighbors, and lead them to the foot of the cross today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

John Mark's gift

Today’s Reading: Acts 12:25 NIV

25 When Barnabas and Saul had finished their mission, they returned from Jerusalem, taking with them John, also called Mark.

Good morning!

What is it like to learn from the best of the best? One of the most enjoyable aspects of attending college as an older adult is gleaning information and tidbits of wisdom from the pastors, professors and students who willingly share their own personal life experiences. Taking Bible classes at Lindenwood University® has made an everlasting mark in my life. I am thankful for the dreams and gifts that are borne through higher education.

John Mark is credited for writing the first Gospel account of Jesus Christ. A gifted writer, Mark focused his thoughts on Christ’s healing miracles, especially the miracle of rebirth which can only come through accepting Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior. His family opened their home as a meeting place for new Christian converts, where Mark listened with great interest to the thoughts of those who had given their hearts to the Lord. Through his Christian “home schooling” experience, John Mark became a missionary apprentice to Paul and Barnabas, traveling with them on their first Gospel-spreading journey. He could not have had better teachers to guide him in The Way.

Name the people in your life who led you to Jesus Christ and encouraged you to follow Him. Say a special prayer of thanksgiving for each of these precious ones today. There is no greater gift than the gift of salvation! Now go, and share the Gospel message with others, in Jesus’ name.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

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

Star Gazing

Today’s Reading: Matthew 2:10-11 NIV

10 When [the wise men] saw the star, they were overjoyed! 11 On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.

Good morning!

The stars were spectacular last night! Did you see them? On a clear winter's night, one can see amazing constellations in the sky. It was way too cold to stand outside for long in near zero degree temperatures; yet, for one brief moment, the skies came alive with blazing white light.

We celebrate and remember the journey of three wise men visiting the infant King on January 6^th. It is commonly referred to as the Epiphany, which means “appearance” or “manifestation.” This is a celebration of Christ’s birth and the visitation by Persian priests to Bethlehem. This date commemorates Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan and the miracle of water to wine at the wedding feast in Cana of Galilee. Epiphany is a celebration of great light and new life.

Just as the astronomers from the east followed a star which led them to the newborn king, we follow Christ’s light into this brand new year. The wise men were willing to follow the star wherever it went, even amid uncertain times. Are you willing to seek out and follow the light of Christ on a day like today?

In this world of uncertain times, there is one thing we can be sure of. Christ’s light, the light of the world, is shining brightly today. He will lead us straight into the Father’s arms, if we are willing to look up and follow His light. Our life’s circumstances may seem bleak, as the winter wind whips around your heart. Do not be discouraged. Jesus Christ walks where you are. He understands your fear. He will not leave you nor forsake you. If you choose to place your full trust Him, Jesus Christ will be the light of your life; He will lead you safely home.

What a great evening to do a little star gazing! Open the door of your heart and see the amazing miracle shining in the night sky!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Gospel Truth

Today’s Reading: Acts 12:24 NIV

24 But the Word of God continued to increase and spread.

Good morning!

On New Year’s Eve, Jeff and I were wandering around in a very large crowd of people along the sidewalks of Epcot®, a part of the Walt Disney World® theme parks and resort located in Orlando, Florida. We were there with our daughter Rachel and family, spending time together during Christmas break. This was my second trip to Disney World; my parents took me to the Magic Kingdom® in the summer of 1975. A lot has changed since then! Of the theme parks we visited at Disney World®, Epcot was clearly my favorite. The park was crowded early when we arrived, and families continued to pour into the park as the day grew longer. By lunch time, there were so many people walking through the World Showcase that it was difficult to find a place to sit down and rest. Jeff and I grabbed a sandwich at a Norwegian kiosk, and tried to get comfortable on the concrete curb next to the lake. We enjoyed eating our sandwiches in the near perfect 75 degree weather, while watching people pass us by.

It became readily apparent that this theme park belongs to the whole world. We saw thousands of families visiting from different countries, gathering together here on this, the last day of 2009. I heard many different languages spoken all at once. When you travel the world showcase, you have an opportunity to visit twenty different countries, experience a little of its unique culture and traditions, and sample their foods. As crowded and chaotic as the park had become, folks seemed to show respect for each other. It is not always easy to be in such a crowded area and demonstrate human kindness to your neighbors. People were extraordinarily nice that day, as we sat in showcase plaza.

I took a moment to close my eyes and listen with my heart. How I longed to be able to understand the words of my brothers and sisters as they passed me by. The various languages, all spoken at once, were beautiful to hear. I thought about the day the Apostle Peter testified to the thousands gathered together that morning in the square. Every nationality could hear the Gospel message spoken in their native tongue and wondered how this could be. Many presumed the men had consumed too much wine! And from what I could see, there was plenty to drink at Epcot® on this, the last day of 2009.

Sometimes we may feel a bit discouraged, wondering if the salvation message we proclaim is being heard and understood around the world. Many good men and women lost their lives translating and distributing Scripture into words which the common man could read and understand for themselves. We continue to find new ways to get the Gospel into the hands of everyone, everywhere! Even though we may struggle to communicate, it is Christ’s Words changes lives, for all people, everywhere. Even amid the many adversities we face, the Word of God continues to increase and spread.

How will Jesus Christ choose to use you to share His Gospel Truth with the world today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Grave danger

Today’s Reading: Acts 12:21-23 NIV

21 On the appointed day Herod, wearing his royal robes, sat on his throne and delivered a public service address to the people. 22 They shouted, “This is the voice of a god, not of a man.” 23 Immediately, because Herod did not give praise to God, an angel of the Lord struck him down, and he was eaten by worms and died.

Good morning!

There is a fine line between taking pride in the work you do, and becoming prideful in it. Our parents and teachers encourage us to take stock of the time and effort we put into our homework, coming prepared to class, or fine-tuning a specific skill for an upcoming competition. Our supervisors at work admonish employees to take personal ownership for the work they do. They encourage their team to show self-confidence while emulating integrity as part of becoming a winning team. Personal and professional achievement is a great thing, until it becomes useless when compromised by our own prideful sin nature.

Herod Agrippa had a problem with pride, and it cost him his life. The spread of Christianity throughout the region caused great distress for the Jews, as they observed large numbers of Gentiles converted daily. In an attempt to win the popular vote, Herod ordered Roman guard to persecute and kill new believers, including the Apostle James. Under his rule, the Apostle Peter was thrown into prison. Herod’s quest for power and prestige superseded his ability to see the Truth. While in Caesarea, Herod delivered a speech perceived to be godlike by the people who heard him speak. When Herod accepted their acclimation, full of pride and self-satisfaction, an angel of the Lord immediately struck him with a case of worms that literally ate him alive from the inside out. Herod was dead within a week.

There is grave danger in becoming prideful. Jesus gives each of us unique gifts and abilities to use for His glory and honor alone. When we twist the truth to build up our own ego and take credit for the things of God, we place our life in eternal jeopardy. Herod had potential and promise, but tossed it all away through his prideful sin against God.

Do you struggle with pride? There is only one remedy and you will find it at the foot of the cross. If you are willing, the Lord will use you for His kingdom work: you must be willing to give Him all the honor, glory and praise. Jesus Christ can take the splendid gift mix that the Father uniquely planted inside of you, and multiply it to reach others with His Gospel Truth. Are you willing to lay your own self-righteous pride at the feet of Jesus today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Everlasting Arms

Today’s Reading: Hebrews 12:10-13 NIV

10 Our fathers disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in His holiness. 11 No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it. 12 Therefore, strengthen your feeble arms and weak knees. 13 Make level paths for your feet, so that the lame may not be disabled, but rather healed.

Good morning!

The cold weather is a constant reminder that my body is just a temporary shell, and not built to last forever. Does the cold, winter weather make your joints and muscles ache? A few months ago, I slipped and fell in my garage at home and did some major rearranging to my neck and right shoulder. The below freezing temperatures are reeking havoc with my old and brittle bones this morning. Can you feel it too?

Because I have always had full use of my arms and hands, it never really occurred to me what it might be like not to have full range of motion, or the ability to lift and move in certain directions without pain. The fall has impacted every aspect of my life on many levels, even apart from where my bones intersected with the hard concrete floor. In the split second when my sandal broke and the force of gravity carried me down, I managed to reach upwards, attempting to catch myself before I hit the concrete. In that fleeting moment, I tore the bicep muscle away from the bone in my right arm. I really didn’t know the extent of this injury until after I had an opportunity to see the shredded muscle in the arthroscopy pictures taken during surgery. I was amazed at the damage that was caused from one missed step. Have you ever missed a step in your life that caused irreparable damage to yourself, your family, and friends?

There is a photograph hanging in one of the gift shops of the Holy Land Experience® in Orlando, Florida. It is a picture of Jesus, on the cross, looking at His outstretched arm, pinned by a large stake pounded through His flesh. I am reminded of Christ’s suffering in this picture, as I see how His muscles were literally pulled away from the bones by the sheer force of gravity. I can sense the unrelenting muscle spasms and pain He felt in every nerve ending running up and down His arms. He willingly, obediently gave His life for you and me! Whenever my shoulder twinges, I think about the agony of Christ’s suffering and I receive a small glimpse of what He endured just to save me from my sin.

His arms are everlasting to everlasting. His reach extends far beyond the depths of the earth. He will catch you when you fall! Jesus Christ is the only One who has the power to raise you up again. One day, I know this flesh will fail me. Jesus made all the difference when He died and rose again! Because He lives, I have His Word that I will receive a brand new, perfect body; there will be no more muscles aches, pain, or tearing of flesh away from the bone. I have been grafted into the vine of New Life! I was purchased at a great price, and His gift was given freely to me. This is why I love the winter time! I know that the physical pain I feel is a blessed reminder of Jesus’ love for me. I say, “Let it snow!”

If you have fallen away from your faith, today is a perfect day to begin anew with the Lord. He will pick you up and carry you, if you will only cry out to Jesus today. Come and worship the Lord with me! Our earthly flesh will one day fail us, but Jesus Christ has conquered all sin; He heals our flesh, and gives us everlasting life! Ask Him to be your Lord and Savior right now.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Eternal revenue

Today’s Reading: Matthew 22:17-22 NIV

[The Pharisees asked Jesus this question:] 17 “Tell us then, what is your opinion? Is it right to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” 18 But Jesus, knowing their evil intent, said, “You hypocrites, why are you trying to trap me? 19 Show me the coin used for paying the tax.” They brought Him a denarius, 20 and He asked them, “Whose portrait is this? And whose inscription?” 21 “Caesar’s,” they replied. Then [Jesus] said to them, “Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” 22 When [the Pharisees] heard this, they were amazed. So they left Him and went away.

Good morning!

Last week, Jeff and I embarked on a whirlwind, seven day road trip. We drove 2,343 American miles! Because this was the last full week in 2009, we wanted an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful country which we have been blessed to live in. We drove through the mountains, walked along sandy shores and dipped our feet into chilly ocean waters. We experienced two very different theme parks: one, a famous, world-renown vacation spot and the other, a journey through time, remembering the real reason for our Christmas journey and long-anticipated celebration.

We quickly discovered that this trip was going to cost us simply to get there. Within an hour’s reach of our final destination, we began to pay toll road charges every five miles or so. The roads were obviously under construction and very difficult to drive on. This is not what I would describe as the “scenic route.” We were paying the state simply for the privilege of driving within the vicinity of a popular, man-made tourist trap. The revenue generated by the state supposedly would fund its highway improvement programs. I couldn’t help but wonder just how long the construction along this particular toll road would take before the improvements might actually be completed…

At year’s end, we begin to count the cost of citizenship. Depending upon where you live, you may be required to pay personal property taxes. American families begin to shift their focus after the first of the year, itemizing expenses and gathering funds to pay annual state and federal income taxes due in the spring. It was not so different when Jesus walked along the Jerusalem roads. The Roman government required the Jews living in and near the city to pay taxes, which funds supported Caesar’s treasury. A denarius was a day’s wage for the average laborer. It could have been used to purchase grain for bread to feed the hungry; yet, it was used to pay for pagan worship rituals and help pad the pockets of the indulgent lifestyles of the rich and famous in Rome. The image of Caesar was boldly imprinted onto every coin. There was no question to whom the coins belonged. This was a very steep price to pay just for the privilege of living.

Jesus surprised the Pharisees when he answered their trick question. Jesus quickly pointed out that, as citizens of the world, we have an obligation to pay for the services and benefits we receive from our government, our states, and our cities. We must never forget, however, that our citizenship in the kingdom of heaven, while free to each and every heart, comes at a great cost. Jesus Christ gave Himself up as the perfect sacrifice, purchasing our sins on the cross. He died and rose again so that we could experience everlasting relationship with our heavenly Father, the creator of all. When we willingly give our hearts to the Lord Jesus Christ, He requires a daily commitment and obedience to His Word.

Are you counting the cost of eternal revenue? What will you bring to honor to honor our Savior and Lord as a full citizen in the kingdom of heaven? For all that we have freely received, we must be willing to freely give all that we have. May this New Year be doubly blessed as you find great joy in paying your eternal revenue to the Lord.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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