Flow of mercy and grace

Today’s Reading: John 19:33-34 (NIV)

33 But when they came to Jesus and found that He was already dead, they did not break His legs. 34 Instead, one of the soldiers pierced Jesus’ side with a spear, bringing a sudden flow of blood and water.

Isaiah 53:5 (NIV)

5 But He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed.

Good morning!

The Roman soldier took one long look at Jesus, hanging lifeless on the cross. Why did he feel compelled to thrust his sword into the dead man’s side? As the soldier stood beneath the cross, a sudden flow of blood and water poured out of Jesus’ body, covering him in mercy and grace. Can you imagine the surprised reaction of the Roman executioner? Christ continues to forgive and heal, especially in death. The disciple John gives an eyewitness account. He was the only one of the twelve who dared to sit at the foot of the cross along side Jesus’ mother Mary, Mary’s sister, Mary Magdalene, and Mary, wife of Cleopas. John witnessed Christ’s suffering and death. He knew without a doubt that the Scripture had been fulfilled in his sight. It was the prophet Isaiah who proclaimed approximately 680 years before Christ’s birth, that He would be pierced for our transgressions, crushed for our iniquities, and His punishment that would bring us peace. It is by Christ's wounds that we are forever healed.

Grace and mercy continues to flow down from the foot of the cross today. Christ pours out His healing blood and living water to all who will come and stand within its spray. When I think of what the Lord did just to save me, I am surprised and ashamed of myself. I am not brave enough to go to Calvary with John and watch the Lord die for me. I would have chosen to hide myself, along with the other disciples, seeking a place where I did not have to hear my Lord suffering in agony. I could not bear to see Him die, to watch the misery He endured for my sin. As I approach His cross today, I realize His blood continues to flow down for even a coward like me.

Were you there with John, when they crucified the Lord? Were you hiding in the upper room with Peter? Were you hanging in the field of remorse with Judas? Were you the Roman soldier, who nailed Jesus to the tree? Come and experience the power of mercy and grace. Jesus died to save you! It is not too late to receive His gift of new life. Won’t you come to the foot of the cross and let Jesus cover you in His precious, healing blood?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Day of Preparation

Today’s Reading: John 19:41-42 (NIV)

41 At the place where Jesus was crucified, there was a garden, and in the garden a new tomb. 42 Because it was the Jewish day of Preparation and since the tomb was nearby, they laid Jesus there.

Good morning!

There is nothing that prepares us adequately for the realities of death. For loved ones left behind, regrets can become overwhelming. It washes over our hearts like breaking waters moving rapidly inward, causing our footsteps to disappear right behind us as we walk along the edge of the beach. Life is short. Death will come touch every one of us someday, whether we are prepared for it or not.

The day of preparation had begun; Passover was eminent. The Roman soldiers had left their work behind, completing the grizzly executions. On a hill overlooking the city of Jerusalem, where the crowd could not escape the sights and sounds of suffering and shame, onlookers watched from the hillside below as three convicted criminals were hung high; their naked bodies impaled upon wooden crosses for the whole world to see. Sunset was fast approaching. It was time for the Jews to return home for Sabbath worship and rest. Just like their ancestors experienced long ago in Egypt, the angel of death had swept over their world once again.

Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus could not bear to let Christ’s body hang on the cross over the Sabbath. Both were respected members of the Jewish council; yet, they felt compelled to properly prepare Jesus’ body for burial according to Jewish custom. As the crowds disappeared, they hurried to bring Jesus down from the cross, laying his body in a garden tomb nearby. Quickly wrapping what was left of His flesh, they bathed his body with myrrh and aloes, covering him in strips of linen cloth. They were determined to finish the preparation before the Son completely disappeared in the western sky. Even with their combined knowledge and sage wisdom, they were unable to comprehend the morbid events of the last twelve hours. With tears streaming down their cheeks, they expressed their own personal guilt for not having stopped this man’s murder.

Later that evening, Jewish families went through mindless acts of worship, all the while, wondering where hope had gone. Could the cruel events of this week somehow have been changed? Why did death come to teacher? He did nothing but daily share His Father's love with our world. How could we have turned on Him after all He did to heal our people and restore the land? If we only had one more day in the presence of Jesus…

The day of preparation is here. The reality of death is passing over, whether we are ready or not. Are you prepared for the night that is coming? Do you know where hope has gone?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Troubleshooter

Today’s Reading: John 16:33 (NIV)

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

Good morning!

When I attended new employee orientation at work, the most important piece of information I received was the telephone number for the company’s Help Desk. Do you have a Help Desk where you work? What a gift to know there is a caring heart at the other end of line, ready to help whenever I hit a speed bump on the motherboard of life. Every now and then, we need someone out there who can troubleshoot for us. I’m blessed to know an extremely talented computer guru whom I can call on whenever I need extreme help.

Trouble seems to lurk around every virtual corner of our lives. Like the dust bunnies that silently gather underneath my sofa, they become a mass legion of dirt if I don’t occasionally sweep them out the door. Trouble is no respecter of age, race, or gender. All of us struggle with something. Isn’t it good to know there is someone you can call, twenty-four hours a day, who loves you enough to go the distance for your very soul? He is our personal troubleshooter, whose soul purpose is to fix the problem we could not change on our own. He understands the issue far better than we do; and He will stop at nothing to remedy the problem, if we are willing to let Him help us.

Jesus walked and talked with His disciples for three years. He had given them His very best, and now it was time to fulfill the ultimate prophecy. Christ came for one purpose – to take the sins of the world upon His shoulders, purchasing salvation for all who would believe and receive.

Sometimes I get really confused. I call the Help Desk when I don’t understand why my computer is locked up and I can’t seem to get the system to reboot. The fix is simply miraculous, especially when I’m up against a deadline and bouncing off a proverbial brick wall. I know my troubleshooter. We are on a first-name basis. I count on Him to be right there with me, every minute of every day, and He is.

Jesus Christ gave His life’s blood so that He could troubleshoot your sin, fixing your disconnect once and for all. Won’t you call on the Lord for heavenly help? He is right here, ready and willing to save you now.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

The Gatekeeper

Today’s Reading: John 10:7 (NIV)

7 Therefore, Jesus said again, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.”

Good morning!

As a young child, I was truly fascinated by the turn styles at Busch Stadium in downtown St. Louis. Our family went to watch Cardinals’ baseball games every summer. Amid throngs of avid fans, we would walk hand-in-hand to the main gate of the stadium. There, Daddy would pull out the passes from his shirt pocket and give them to the waiting usher. He would tear the perforated portion from the ticket, motioning for me to slide through the gate. Only one person could slide through at a time. It made a funny clicking noise, kind of like the sound you hear when depositing a coin into a piggy bank. I was small enough then to fit through with ease. It is much harder now to squeeze through the tiny opening than it was when I was a child. I’ve often wondered whether those turn-styles somehow shrunk with age.

A friend recently posted an online picture of a sheep gate he visited while in Scotland. I was intrigued by the short, narrow opening – there was only one way in. I think I’m beginning to understand the prophetic words of John the Baptist, as he spoke about the promised Messiah. He said, “He must become greater, and I must become less.” (John 3:30 NIV)

Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.” One day, I will approach the gate that leads from this life to life everlasting. I will meet the Gatekeeper face to face. Will I fit through the tiny turn style? There is only One Way in. I can fully rely upon His Word. I know He must increase within me, and I must decrease for His glory. Jesus will shrink-wrap me in His precious blood, as I slide right through heaven’s door. There, I will worship and glorify the Father, Son and Holy Spirit forevermore.

Jesus is the Gatekeeper. Do you know Him?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Who left the gate open?

Today’s Reading: John 10:3-6 (NIV)

3 "The watchman opens the gate for Him, and the sheep listen to His voice. He calls His own sheep by name and leads them out. 4 When He has brought out all His own, He goes on ahead of them, and His sheep follow Him because they know His voice. 5 But they will never follow a stranger; in fact, they will run away from him because they do not recognize a stranger's voice." 6 Jesus used this figure of speech, but they did not understand what He was telling them.

Good morning!

“Who left the gate open?” I could hear the frustration in the voice of my grandmother as she ran down the path from the farm house to the animal pen. Someone fed the chickens and the pigs and didn’t get the gate shut, and now it was time to look for the ones who had wandered away. What a job! I visited my grandmother almost every weekend when I was a little girl, and it didn’t take long for me to realize I was not cut out to be a farmer. Those king snakes that curled up in the chicken coop next to the eggs were more than enough to keep me far away from that animal pen. I hate to blame everything on my little sister and my crazy cousins, but they were a whole lot braver than me, and there is no way I would have left that gate open.

It was entertaining, watching my grandmother run around in her long apron and big black shoes, shaking her dish towel while making loud whooping noises, trying to coerce those carefree animals back into the pen. The pigs would come running when they saw the big bucket of slop being dumped into the feeding trough. Those guys were always hungry! They would gladly return for their next meal, then roll around in the mud together. No wonder we call them pigs! The chickens and goats were a little more persnickety. My grandmother would shout loud threats, while swinging that dish rag high in the air, as if they could understand her every word. “If you don’t get back in that pen right now, we’re having fried chicken for dinner!” Eventually, the animals would saunter back inside the gate, and she would secure it with chicken wire. Grandma was the gatekeeper. She raised five strong-willed children, and every now and then, someone would manage to escape when the gate was left open. Grandma always found a way to bring them back home.

Just like those crazy animals on the farm, Jesus' disciples couldn’t understand a word He was saying to them. He is the Father’s gatekeeper! His sheep recognize and listen closely to His voice alone. Jesus knows each precious one by name; the relationship He has with them is worth the sacrifice He made to rescue them from certain destruction. He opens the gate and leads them outside their comfort zone, knowing they will not wander away, because they trust the sound of His still, small voice. The sheep are totally in love with their Shepherd.

Have you heard the voice of Jesus calling out your name? Do you trust Him enough to step outside your box, and follow Him? When you recognize His still, small voice, do not be afraid to follow. He will never leave or forsake you. And this is Good News for a day like today!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Reversing the lens

Today’s Reading: John 9:39 (NIV)

39 Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind.”

Good morning!

Yesterday at work, I was trying to focus my eyes on some printed material right in front of me, and was having the most difficult time reading the text. I’ve worn corrective contact lenses for years, but it seemed like my vision had changed overnight. Because I’m diabetic, I have to watch acute visual changes. I grabbed my glucometer and checked my blood sugar; it was fine. Yet, I couldn’t read the words on the page. Have you ever had this experience? Out of sheer desperation, I went to the ladies’ room and switched my contact lenses, and what do you know - I could see clearly again! Have you ever put your contact lenses in the wrong eyes? I wish I could tell you this was the first time I’ve done it, but that would not be true. Sometimes, I need to experience a lens reversal so I can see clearly once more.

The Pharisees were not happy with the man from Nazareth. He was stepping on toes, healing sinful people on the Sabbath, and making quite a stir in town. I think it is safe to say they did not like Him at all. They couldn’t understand His purpose for coming and they refused to try. A role reversal was occurring right before their very eyes, but the Pharisees simply couldn’t see it. They were blinded to the truth of Jesus Christ.

When we have difficulty reading and understanding God’s Word and how it speaks to our hearts, we need to stop and check our spiritual lens. Maybe we’ve unintentionally reversed it, which is why we cannot see the truth clearly. We get so bent on seeing things the way we want to see it, rather than trying to understand what God may actually be saying. Do you know what I mean?

It is easy to see things through our own personal lens. We need the help of the Holy Spirit to recognize the Truth. Jesus can heal our spiritual blindness, when we ask Him to help us see and understand His truth clearly. If you are struggling to see clearly today, try reversing the lens you are looking through. It may clear up your vision instantly!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Miraculous mud pack!

Today’s Reading: John 9:13-15 (NIV)

13 They brought to the Pharisees the man who had been blind. 14 Now the day on which Jesus had made the mud and opened the man’s eyes was a Sabbath. 15 Therefore the Pharisees also asked him how he had received his sight. “He put mud on my eyes,” the man replied, “and I washed, and now I see.”

Good morning!

I sat on the edge of my bed last night, watching Kirk Cameron interview one of my favorite Christian groups, Avalon, while rubbing my tired, dry feet with moisturizing lotion. This is the time of year when dry skin gives me grief. I’ve kept warm winter boots on for a couple of months now, and just like the tulips peeking through the crusty hard soil in my garden bed, these tiny toes are screaming to break out into some colorful spring sandals. Do you fight with patches of dry skin in the winter time?

The man whom Jesus healed, had been blind from birth. His neighbors assumed that this boy was the byproduct of some lifelong sin that had occurred, causing him to be blinded from birth. He was tolerated in his hometown by the locals. Like a patch of dry, crusty, skin, they lived with him, much to their dismay. People would go out of their way to avoid this lonely beggar, as he sat and asked for help each day. A few kind souls had compassion on him. They would drop off a sack lunch – a few fish and some unleavened bread so he wouldn’t sit there and starve. Occasionally, he would receive a coin or two from a generous heart. No one wanted to be near the man with eyes that could not see. He was an eyesore to the righteous ones.

Jesus made miraculous mud packs from the dirt of the soil and with his saliva, placed it on the man’s eyes. The scales fell off in the water as he washed. Everything that had been dry and cracked, broken and bleeding, became soft and pliable with His holy touch. The blind man was desperate for healing. Desperate situations require complete and total faith. He was tired of being the community’s callous; the flake that sat at the edge of the world hoping his life might one day be transformed. Jesus gave this man a new life, perfect vision, and a softened heart.

One would have thought the Pharisees would have been relieved to have seen such a miracle with their very own eyes. But they were far more concerned that this man, who obviously didn’t deserve to be healed, was forever changed on their Sabbath, the most holy and high day of their week. Who do you think had the driest skin of all: the man whose eyes were opened, or the ones who couldn’t accept the miracle that had occurred?

Oh Lord, how I need to be washed in your miraculous mud pack today. You alone can remove the dry and crusty scales that have built up over time, transforming my hardened heart into something brand new. Heal my brokenness today, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Wash up!

Today’s Reading: John 9:6-7 (NIV)

6 Having said this, [Jesus] spit on the ground, made some mud with the saliva, and put it on the man’s eyes. 7 “Go,” he told him, “wash in the Pool of Siloam” (this word means Sent). So the man went and washed, and came home seeing.

Good morning!

“Wash up for supper!” We could hear Mom shouting from the open window by the kitchen sink. My sister and I would come running in from the back yard, famished and ready to sit down for our family meal. We had a small step stool by the sink in the bathroom so we could reach the faucets and wash our hands. Daddy often worked outside until dark, so our evening meals were late, especially in the summer time. Daddy’s hands were filthy from mowing grass, working on our family car, and from the dirt he acquired while pulling weeds in the garden. He kept a jar of Goop® next to the sink, just to remove those hard, set-in stains.

“Scrub hard!” Mom would say as she heard the water running. Pammy and I would play around a little, slinging soapy water at each other. Occasionally, the water would splash in our faces. I was the family tattle tale. With pouting lips and a whine that could heard all over the house, I cried, “Mommy, Pammy got soap in my eyes!” “Stop fooling around and come to the table right now,” she would say. We would run to the kitchen table, sliding into our designated seats. Before we said the blessing, Mommy would look at our hands and faces to ensure we were actually clean. Often, we were sent back to the bathroom sink to wash again.

Jesus knew a little dirt mixed in the Master’s hand is a powerful, healing balm. Touching the blind man’s eyes with His miraculous mudpack, Jesus sent him to the pool of Siloam to wash up for the rest of his life. Willingly, the blind man went to the Pool of Siloam and washed his face and hands. He returned home, seeing clearly for the very first time.

Amazing miracles happen when we allow the Lord of life to wash us in His precious, healing blood. He has the power to remove our set-in, sinful stains once and for all. He will clean up your life, if you will let Him. Will you choose to obey when He sends you to the Pool of Grace to wash up?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Daylight Savings Time

Today’s Reading: John 9:4-5 (NIV)

4 “As long as it is day, we must do the work of Him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. 5 While I am in the world, I am the light of the world.”

Good morning!

Daylight savings time has occurred in the US, and we lost an hour of sleep last Saturday night in an attempt to “spring forward.” I do not understand why it is so hard to lose that extra hour of rest, yet so easy to “fall back” in the fall. My body tells me I have misplaced an entire night’s rest. I think this must be symptomatic of some deeper revelation. Maybe it’s because I’m in the last week of quarter classes and I’m trying to finish up projects that are due this weekend. Maybe that is why I’m feeling a little extra fatigued. Does the switch to daylight savings time affect you this way?

I enjoy the longer daylight hours. There is something delicious about not having to drive home from work at 6pm in total darkness. It means I can go outside and play for an hour – I can actually see my messy garden beds that are begging for a little extra attention and tender loving care. I can take a walk and still see where I’m walking. When the weather warms up, the days will grow longer and soon we will be mowing the grass and pulling weeds. I have come to enjoy the extra time outside while the daylight lasts.

Jesus understood the value of His light. His Father sent Him to be the light of life to a dark and disillusioned world. He only had so much time to do the work of the One who had sent Him. Jesus knew that the night would eventually come, when no one would be able to work.

We have an amazing window of opportunity to share the Gospel message with others right now! There is still a little daylight left outside. How will you choose to use the extra time God has given you to plant seeds for His kingdom?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Walking by faith and not by sight

Today’s Reading: John 9:1-3 (NIV)

1 As He went along, He saw a man blind from birth. 2 His disciples asked Him, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” 3 “Neither this man nor his parents sinned,” said Jesus, “but this happened so that the work of God might be displayed in His life.”

Good day!

Yesterday afternoon, while attending a healing service at Faith Church, the Holy Spirit within me was immediately drawn to the words of our guest speaker. Nathan described his health battle with Guillaume Barre Syndrome, an often fatal disease that he, by the grace of God, survived. Nathan explained that this disease attacked his body quite suddenly and without warning, and how the Lord used his illness to bring healing and wholeness to his entire family, drawing them into a deeper relationship and walk with the Lord Jesus Christ. Nathan’s witness had a profound impact on all who were there to hear him speak. Even with the lingering side effects of neuropathy and involuntary twitches, Nathan is able to walk unassisted. He plays guitar and sings with a praise band at his church. He continues on in his career path, thanking God for the ability to work and earn an income for his family’s benefit. Nathan willingly shares his testimony and life experience with others, allowing the power of the Holy Spirit to speak through him. He compares his time of total paralysis to that of Jonah’s captivity in the belly of a big fish, during a season when Jonah wanted nothing more than to run from the call of the Lord upon his life. Nathan said that when he became ill, he was running from God’s call too.

When afflictions come, we try to explain it away by looking for someone or something to blame. Human nature teaches that the calamities of daily living are a direct link to our sinful ways. Yet, Christ took the example of the man born blind from birth as a means to bring the Father glory. Nathan learned that many who suffer from Guillaume Barre Syndrome will die from this disease. Some who are afflicted will remain on ventilators and in wheelchairs, unable to move or care for themselves without round-the-clock care. Nathan may never know why the Lord chose to heal him completely, but he does know from whence his healing came. He chooses to acknowledge God’s grace and mercy each new day of his life.

If you are like me, you may find yourself asking God why some people suffer so; why bad things have to happen. No matter what the adversity or affliction you bear, remember that God will use your circumstance to bring glory and honor to Him. Are you willing to let Him speak through you? We can be an encouragement to the people God has placed in our lives, simply by choosing to walk by faith, and not by sight.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Catching doubt in the palm of His hand

Today’s Reading: Matthew 14:31 (NIV)

31 Immediately Jesus reached out His hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?”

Good day!

I’ve been asking myself that very question for the last couple of days. Why do I doubt Christ’s Word? If He calls me to get out of the boat and walk across the water, shouldn’t I be able to without fear of sinking? Simon Peter and I have a whole lot more in common than I would like to admit. It’s a little hard to imagine, but I wonder if that man really did have red hair?

Last August, my twenty-eight year old daughter Rachel underwent cancer surgery in Saint Louis. When she followed up with her physician in October, her blood work and examination confirmed what we knew in our hearts to be true – she was healed of the cancer! Last December, Rachel’s medical tests results produced questionable results. In January, she began to experience cancer-like symptoms, and I began to wonder if this cancer had returned. I weighed the medical test results against her state of health and made a judgment call based upon what I could see. By the time Rachel had her biopsies in February, I was convinced she was no longer well.

Sometimes we listen to God but we don’t hear what He is saying. We trust Him enough to let go of the security blanket, only to shrink back in fear, believing that what we see is what we get. When Simon Peter took a look at the water swirling beneath his feet, he couldn’t imagine having the human ability to walk on top of the water and not sink. When he looked down, Peter took his eyes off of Jesus, and began to drown in fear. It was at that moment our Lord pulled Peter up from the raging water and asked, “Why did you doubt?”

When Rachel called Thursday evening, I clearly heard the words she said over the telephone. I’m cancer free! Immediately, I heard the Word of the Lord speak to my heart. He asked, “Why did you doubt?” For a time, I diverted my gaze from the One who heals and was more focused on the deep swirling water beneath my feet. Even in the midst of our great joy, I realized that once again, I failed at Faith-Walking 101. It was high time to confess it and seek His forgiveness for not trusting Him all the more. I needed Jesus Christ to take my doubts into the palm of His nail-scarred palm and heal me once again.

Remind me today, dear Lord, to focus completely on Your Word, especially when I begin to doubt. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Who is your daddy?

Today’s Reading: John 8:19 (NIV)

19 Then they asked Him, “Where is your Father?” Jesus replied, “If you knew me, you would know my Father also.”

Good day!

I’ve often wondered about who my biological parents are. You see, I was adopted as an infant, and I’ve never met them. I would love to thank my mother and father for giving me life. I cannot imagine the range of emotions that come with making a conscious decision to give up a newborn baby. I’ve been told that my biological mother was young and unmarried, and that my daddy played with a band. I’ve often thought about trying to trace my biological background. If I had the opportunity to thank my mother personally, I would tell her how grateful I am that she chose not to abort me. She chose to give me life! What a sacrifice of love she made in carrying me to term, then offering me to a family who was not able to have biological children of their own. One sweet day, I believe I will be thanking her in heaven, face to face.

Do I look like my biological parents? Do I emulate their character and disposition? Is my love for music a direct link to my dad? Even though I’ve never met my biological parents, I believe they are part of who I am, and I carry pieces of each of them inside my heart. I’ve passed their traits along to my children and grandchildren. I may not physically be able to point them out in a crowd, but they are precious to me. My biological parents are a significant part of who I am.

When the Pharisees asked, “Who is your daddy?” Jesus replied, “If you knew me, you would know my Father also.” When we fall in love with Jesus Christ, we begin to love and honor the Father who sent Him. You cannot help but love the Father when you really know the Son. We experience amazing relationship with the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, the Three in One!

If you’re looking for the Father today, you will see Him in His Son. Take a closer look at Jesus Christ today. Do you know His Daddy?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Selective hearing

Today’s Reading: Romans 10:14-15; 17-18(NIV)

14 How, then, can they call on the One they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the One of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? 15 And how can they preach unless they are sent?

17 Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the Word of Christ. 18 But I ask: Did they not hear? Of course they did.

Good day!

Do you ever have trouble hearing? I live with people who are hearing impaired. My mother, mother-in-law and husband all wear hearing aids to help them hear more clearly. I know they hear much better with their hearing aids than I do now. I have three children who have selective hearing, a genetic trait they’ve inherited from their mother’s side. I have been fighting an uphill battle with hearing since I caught the flu in late January. When people talk to me, it sounds like they are speaking through a long, narrow tube. I hear the strangest sounds. Don’t worry, I’ve had my head examined and I’m told I have a brain and that it is partially functioning. Whew! That’s a relief.

There are times when I struggle to hear God clearly. How do you listen for His still, small voice? The Apostle Paul reminds us that we will hear clearly when we listen to the Word of Christ. Seeking His still, small voice is something I do from the minute I get up until I turn out the light at the end of the day. I look for Him everywhere, and in everything I do. Sometimes, even when I’m trying, God has to take out His 2x4 and bop me on the head a few times just to get my attention. No wonder I have this ringing sensation going on right now. I’ve been fighting with selective spiritual hearing for most of my life. It may be easy to hear what I want, but not so easy to hear what I may need to understand.

Every one of us has a special call on our lives. We were created by the hand of God for a specific plan and purpose. Do you know what you’re supposed to be doing with your life? I’m still trying to figure it all out. I’m 49 years old, and at the rate I’m going, I’ll be asking the same question at age 99. Where will He take me in the next 50 years of my life? What specific plan and purpose does He have for me to fulfill on earth? Will I hear Him if my ears are plugged up? If my heart is not open to His realm of His possibilities, will I miss out on the one thing He has called me to do?

There is one place I need to go to find the answers I’m seeking. Will you join me there today, as we study God's Word together? Don’t miss out on all He has planned for you. Get into the Word today, and He will speak, I guarantee it.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Measuring Truth

Today’s Reading: John 8:15-16(NIV)

15 “You judge by human standards; I pass judgment on no one. 16 But if I do judge, my decisions are right, because I am not alone; I stand with the Father, who sent me.”

Good day!

The Saint Louis metropolitan area experienced one of its largest snowfalls yesterday in March history. Ranking among the top five March snow accumulations ever in St. Louis, measurements ranged from 3-12 inches, depending upon where you live. I work just a few miles from my home, just across the Missouri River. When I stepped onto the parking lot to scrape off my car, I was surprised by the accumulations on my windshield and car roof. I waded through snow that came up over the tops of my snow boots. It fell so quickly, that I had no idea just how bad the weather had become in such a short period of time. With the added wind and freezing road conditions, there were moments when I literally could not see a few feet in front of me, as I crept along the highway toward my home in St. Charles.

Neighbors were outside with their snow shovels and measuring sticks, trying to determine just how much snow fell in their front yards. By human standards, our measurements will vary, depending upon the wind gusts in your neighborhood and how the storm tracked in your neck of the woods. Still, it was a beautiful snow, picture perfect for building snowmen and sledding. I hope you made time to play in the new-fallen snow, even if it was only for a few minutes.

The people were measuring Jesus by human standards, and their measurements were as varied as the opinions being spoken. Some thought He was just a man, while others saw a Savior’s heart, recognizing the Lord whom they had long been waiting for. Many were threatened by His teaching. They were fearful of His authority and supernatural power. Jesus didn’t need a groundswell of support from the crowd. He came to offer God’s love to the world, hoping they would hear and receive His message of salvation. Jesus knew His Father was walking right beside Him, every step of the way, and this is the only accurate measurement He needed.

Like the beautiful snowfall, Christ’s Word falls fresh on us all. Some will mark His Words as Gospel Truth and will choose to follow Him wherever He leads. Others may not pay attention, and miss out on the beauty of His amazing love. When you step outside today, take a minute to play in the snow, remembering that our human measurements and opinions cannot begin to compare to the Truth that is given through God’s Word, in the person of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Perfect Score!

Today’s Reading: John 8:14(NIV)

14 Jesus answered, “Even if I testify on my own behalf, my testimony is valid, for I know where I came from and where I am going.”

Good day!

Do you enjoy taking tests? Prior to a written or oral examination, I spend hours reading, taking notes, making flash cards, and memorizing definitions. Before the test is administered, I pray, asking for His divine intervention. I know if my test-taking abilities depended upon my skill sets alone, I would surely fail. I cannot say that I enjoy taking tests. I do, however, appreciate a passing grade when I receive it. There is something about that letter grade that reminds me that I worked hard to achieve a particular goal. A perfect score may not be completely out of our reach, when we focus on the goal. It can become your benchmark for daily living, as you prepare for every test you take in life.

I heard a pastor once say, “Your test will become your testimony.” This struck a chord within my soul. Whether we are in school, taking written examinations, or whether we are passing tests in our daily life experiences, we begin to testify to the tests we have taken. In many instances, our testimony is evidence of our failures. My supervisor reminds me that we learn best when we make a mistake and seek to correct it. I find this to be absolutely true in my own life. I may not remember the value of each lesson learned if it didn’t come with a bump or two in the road. It is because of those tests that I continue to grow and learn a little more each day.

Jesus’ testimony is absolute Truth. He and the Father and the Spirit were together before the beginning of time. They will be here through all eternity. Jesus knew where He had been, what He was doing, and where He was headed. Our Lord has the power and authority to testify on His own behalf. Not everyone chose to believe His testimony; yet, there was no doubt He was surpassing every test that had been placed along the Way.

Fully human yet fully divine, all wrapped up in a body of flesh, with a perfect, loving heart, Jesus’ test became His living testimony. He appeared with the perfect score, revealing Himself and the Father who sent Him to a sinful, fallen world. Jesus Christ came to set the record straight, once and for all. Will knowing the Lord change your life’s testimony?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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