Keeper of the money bag

Today’s Reading: John 12:4-6(NIV)

4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray [Jesus], objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself in what was put into it.

Good morning!

I spent many years working downtown, walking the streets to and from my place of employment. Employees who work downtown, learn not to linger or meander along the sidewalks, especially when walking alone. I carried a fanny pack, so that when I walked to and from my car, I did not have to carry a purse. I could wear it around my waist, tucked underneath my suit jacket, and most people didn’t even know it was there. To what lengths do you go to protect the money in your pocket?

As wage earners, all of us make choices about how to spend our resources. I believe that everything I receive is a gift from the Father above. Therefore, the wages I earn do not belong to me. It belongs to Him, the giver of all good gifts. It is His present to my family, and He expects me to use the resources I’ve been given in such a way that is pleasing to Him. God wants me to be a blessing, just as He blesses my life. All of us have been given an important responsibility to keep. Our family’s survival depends upon the wise use of our income. Who is our family? Does it only include our parents, spouses, children and grandchildren? As members of the family of God, we are responsible for the care of our brothers and sisters around the world. There are moments when we may not take our responsibility as seriously as we should. We spend frivolously, seeking personal pleasure and comfort over the needs of others. At some point, you and I may be placed in positions of authority at work, at church, or in our civic organizations, whereby we become keepers of the community treasury. Many will depend upon you to display a model of good stewardship with the resources that have been entrusted to your care. Do you demonstrate the utmost integrity as keeper of the money bag?

Apparently, Judas was not as trustworthy as many believed. He may have known a lot about managing money, having a reputation for being a great businessman, but Jesus knew what Judas was up to. He gave the impression of keeping the disciples’ money close at hand, as sole protector of the disciple’s trust fund. Still, Judas was double-dipping into the pot for his own personal gain. Why didn’t the Lord replace Judas with another, more trustworthy disciple? God allows each of us to experience the temptations and consequences of the sinful choices we make each day. Just because we think we can get away with it doesn’t mean that God won’t ask us for a full accounting later. We will all answer for our actions. None of us are exempt from the judgment. A day of reckoning will come, when God's checks and balances will be put into place. How will you respond to the Lord when He asks you give a full accounting for the gifts He has given you?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

The sweet scent of salvation

Today’s Reading: John 12:1-3(NIV)

1 Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Good morning!

I remember my very first date. I was waiting for Jeff to arrive, and he showed up in high style, driving his father’s bright yellow Pinto. “The lemon,” as he affectionately called it, became our mode of transport for all our dates. I didn’t realize that this would be the first of many trips that we would make with each other, side by side. Jeff stepped onto our family’s front porch and rang the doorbell. He was dressed in a bright yellow short-sleeved shirt, matching the color of his car, with contrasting plaid pants and a very wide tie tucked underneath his shirt collar. The sweet smell of fresh Polo® cologne swirled about him, and that fragrance quickly became one of my favorite scents. Jeff’s cologne would remain long after he dropped me off after our dates. There are sweet scents in life that we will never forget.

Early on Sunday mornings, Jeff gets up long before I awake. He showers and dresses and leaves for church in the middle of the night to watch and pray and wait upon the Lord. Quite often, I awake to the scent of his after shave, long after he has left the parsonage. It is a sweet reminder of His presence here. Even after Jeff has gone, his cologne is a constant reminder that the one I love may be out of sight, yet he is not far from my heart.

There was a lot of love being celebrated in Bethany that evening. Lazarus was there, enjoying a brand new life he received when Jesus called him to come out from the grave. The Lord was there, reclining at the table near Lazarus, as they enjoyed the evening meal together. Martha had prepared an amazing feast. The smell of freshly baked bread and the delights of a home-cooked meal were wafting around the room. When Mary opened the bottle of pure nard and began pouring it over her Master’s feet, it became a lingering expression of everlasting love. Can you imagine the sweet scent that filled the room?

The sweet scent of salvation is ever-present. There are days like today when I wake up smelling the fresh rain falling gently outside. I hear the sounds of thunder and see the lightning peal across the early morning sky, and I sense the presence of my Savior. I listen for the chirping of the robins outside my window. They praise the Lord each day with glorious melodies, speaking in a language I have yet to understand. I sense my Savior’s presence. He is always near; I am constantly surrounded by His sweet fragrance. When I close my eyes, I get a whiff of pure nard. It was used to prepare His earthly body for death and resurrection. Can you smell the sweet scent of Jesus Christ surrounding you 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.

Where is He?

Today’s Reading: John 11:55-57(NIV)

55 When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, many went up from the country to Jerusalem for their ceremonial cleansing before the Passover. 56 They kept looking for Jesus, and as they stood in the temple area they asked one another, “What do you think? Isn’t He coming to the Feast at all?” 57 But the chief priests and Pharisees had given orders that if anyone found out where Jesus was, He should report it so that they might arrest Him.

Good morning!

Have you ever tried to catch up with someone in a crowd and couldn’t seem to find them? I’ve had this experience several times; most recently at the United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth. Over the last two years, I’ve spoken online with many new friends from around the world. It is a true blessing to meet and greet people who live in different cultural settings, whose life experiences have intersected with mine. They have made a lasting impression on me. There were some people with whom I was hoping to meet face-to-face while visiting Fort Worth. Maybe I missed seeing them because I was only there for a few days, and maybe I walked right by them and didn’t even know it. Why didn’t I recognize their faces? For all I know, they could have been standing right next to me on the sidewalk just outside the convention center. I wonder - did they see me? Did they recognize who I am?

The people were looking for Jesus. They had traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover feast together. The people had gathered for a very special event; the party was just getting started and everyone was delighting in the company of their own family and friends. Still, many were searching for the man from Galilee. “Where is He?” they asked. “Isn’t He coming to the biggest celebration of the season?” Some folk truly wanted to meet the Lord, to shake His hand and connect face-to-face with the Master. Others simply wanted to identify who He was, take a sneak peak at the gentleman who was wanted for questioning by the Jewish authorities. Regardless of their motivation, people were looking for the Lord and no one could find Him there.

If you’ve ever wandered around looking for Jesus and you can’t seem to find Him, stop and wait. Why, Jesus Christ may be standing right next to you and me today, and somehow in our tunnel vision, we’ve missed meeting Him! You see, when the Lord Jesus Christ shows up, everything changes. This party is no longer about us, our personal preferences, our friends, our agendas – it is all about Him. When we focus our hearts and minds on only finding each other, we may miss seeing the Lord Jesus Christ in our midst.

Jesus said, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20b) He is here now. He was here yesterday, today and He will be here forevermore. Are we so busy trying to catch up with each other that we may miss out on seeing Jesus?

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.

Retreat

Today’s Reading: John 11:53-54(NIV)

53 So from that day on they plotted to take to take [Jesus] life. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer moved about publicly among the Jews. Instead He withdrew to a region near the desert, to a village called Ephraim, where He stayed with His disciples.

Good morning!

Where do you like to retreat? Last week during our small group meeting, someone asked me where I like to go on vacation. I especially enjoy visiting the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Our family has made many trips to Bailey, Colorado through the years. This picturesque village is nestled in a beautiful valley running along the Guanella Pass. Bailey is bathed in fields of wildflowers surrounded by steep mountain peaks. Glen Isle Resort has been a Spaulding family favorite for many years. The Rainbow’s End cottage has an old covered front porch that I especially delight in. As the early morning sun creeps up over the snow capped mountain tops, one can sit and listen to the chirping of the birds and the rushing river nearby. It is a picturesque and quiet place, where the sweet smell of a freshly brewed pot of coffee wafts out across the porch and drifts into the crisp mountain air. Wrapped up in a piece quilt with comfy woolen slippers, I sit, surrounded by God’s majestic presence, enjoying the peace and quiet of a cozy mountain retreat. When life is especially crazy, I take a stroll along memory lane and remember the mornings I sat on that front porch just listening to the Lord and whispering praises to His name.

Jesus became a wanted man almost overnight. From the moment He began His earthly ministry, Christ was followed by the believers, the curious and the skeptics. People were drawn to the Messiah; they knew He was offering something bigger than anything they had ever experienced before. A need was being met; people were getting healed; some even brought back to life again. It must have been difficult to find a place of solitude, a retreat where Jesus could rest and wait surrounded by family and friends. The town of Ephraim is approximately eight miles north of Jerusalem, bordering the wilderness of Bethaven. A quiet and secluded village, not far from the town of Bethel, Jesus chose this place for his personal retreat.

There is a special place where we can experience holy retreat each day. We do not have to travel far to find Him. We may experience holy retreat at work, at home, in our car, at school, or even walking at a nearby park. You may find sweet peace strolling along the beach, gazing into the vast ocean waters. Maybe your holy space is standing knee deep along the edge of a river, casting a rod upon the waters and waiting for the “big one” to bite. Some find solace swinging a golf club at the ninth hole, or simply taking a little rest on the hammock swaying between two trees in your back yard. Jesus knew where to retreat and to whom He would go. Find a space today to spend time alone with Him. Christ can bring you His peace that passes all understanding. He will guard your heart and mind, as you retreat into His holy presence. Do not miss the mountaintop experience because of busyness. Where will you go to find Jesus 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.

Gale force wind

Today’s Reading: John 11:49b-52 (NIV)

49 Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! 50 You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.” 51 He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, 52 and no only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one.

Acts 2:1-4 (The Message)

When the Feast of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind, gale force – no one could tell where it came from. It filled the whole building. Then, like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks, and they started speaking in a number of different languages as the Spirit prompted them.

Good morning!

I listened intently last night as the wind whipped around our church parsonage in St. Charles, Missouri. I wondered if we might blow away in the eye of the storm. I can sleep through almost anything, but last night’s storms kept me up all night long. I’ve learned to pay close attention to the Lord as He speaks in the wind and rain. I’ve been praying today for the families who lost loved ones last night in the tornadoes that demolished homes and businesses Oklahoma and Southwest Missouri. Will we find new life in these gale force winds?

How the Father uses every heart for kingdom work is simply amazing to me. His plan and purpose is sure. He is greater than anything I can understand or even begin to comprehend in this life. Trusting Him completely is a lifelong process; it is a journey I willingly choose to walk. I don’t understand the wind and rain, death and destruction, grief and loss. I do not understand why we experience the dark night of the soul; yet, I believe the Father brings forth new life even in the midst of fear and grief. Caiaphas prophesied of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and how He would save a fallen world. Did Caiaphas realize the words he had spoken had a much greater meaning? I seriously doubt it. Do we speak prophetically today and realize what we say may have an even deeper meaning? Our intent may be completely different from that of the Lord God Almighty, and yet He chooses to use you and me for His greater plan and purpose. Don’t you find this absolutely incredible?

Long ago, Christ followers were gathered together all in one place, with thousands who did not believe or know the Lord Jesus Christ. Without warning, a wind kicked up out of nowhere and they could tell from where it came. Like wildfire, the power of the Holy Spirit spread among the people and they began speaking in different languages as it prompted them to tell the story. The wind and flames dance around us today, and we are reminded of how God reveals Himself just when we least expect it. Even in the midst of fear and death, we can see His glory, touch His face, and feel His holy breath upon our lives. Caiaphas plotted for Jesus to die. God knew His Son would rise again. People were prophesying in different languages and all who were there, understood God’s love in their own native tongue. The Word emerged from the wind and flame. Can you hear Him speaking to your heart today? Won’t you come and worship with me at Faith Church? Come and listen to the wind as it speaks to our hearts 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.

Blind eyewitness

Today’s Reading: John 11:49-50 (NIV)

49 Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! 50 You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.”

Good morning!

For Joseph Caiaphas, being the Chief Priest and bottle washer at the temple had its advantages. I would imagine he grew up surrounded by affluence and wealth. Placed in charge of the temple treasury, many of the Jewish Sadducees looked to Caiaphas for the protection of their personal interests. They must have liked the job he was doing, for he served in office almost nineteen years. Caiaphas knew about Jesus of Nazareth. One could not help but listen to His amazing teaching. Caiaphas observed the growing number of faithful groupies who had left their livelihoods and families to follow this man all around Galilee. The brotherhood was becoming quite a bitter bunch; gossip and harsh words were echoing in the hallways of the temple courts. They looked to Caiaphas for a solution to this problem. Have you ever resented someone so much that you wished He were dead?

Ironically, there were many who truly believe they are keeping the letter of the law as handed down through their forefather Moses. God-fearing Jews didn’t like it one bit when Jesus suggested that if a person had lustful thoughts for another, they had already committed adultery in their hearts. Ouch! Does this mean that if you were plotting to find a way to rid yourself of a man you didn’t like, under Jesus’ teaching, would you be guilty of murder, for simply having thought about it?

Caiaphas was an eyewitness to God made man but he was blinded to the truth. When Caiaphas spoke a word of prophecy over Jesus’ life, he didn’t even realize who had given him the word. Caiaphas said, “You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.” He had absolutely no idea what the implications of this statement would mean for the world, and how one man’s death and resurrection would forever change the course of human history.

Hanging out in the city of spiritual blindness is a dangerous place to live. Like Joseph Caiaphas, we are all eyewitnesses to the Truth. How is your vision 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.

Are you grave digging or stone rolling?

Today’s Reading: John 11:45-47 (NIV)

45 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, put their faith in Him. 46 But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. 47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked. “Here is this man performing many miraculous signs. 48 If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.

Good morning!

What are we accomplishing? This is a great question! I’ve posed this very question in prayer daily, but especially in the last few weeks. I believe that, at some level, every human heart longs to make a lasting difference in their world. Oh, there may be a few who only seem to live for the moment, caring about their needs first and foremost, and seeking “what’s in it” for them. Yet, there are others who seem truly interested in making the world a better place for someone else. Somehow, our jealousies and insecurities push us to posture for position and power. This mindset can reroute affect many humble hearts from time to time. Do you know any ladder climbers out there? Folks who posture for position and control? This passage of Scripture speaks loudly to all of us today.

Can you imagine what the world might be like if everyone had an opportunity to see and know the power and love of Jesus Christ demonstrated right before their very eyes? Would every heart then believe? The miracle of Lazarus’ raising from death to new life was the talk of the town. If Christian believers claimed the power of Christ and began raising the dead in Jesus’ name, do you think there might be more Christian believers in the world? Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” [John 14:12]

When we share the Gospel message with others, we believe by faith that it is not just our own mere words, but the transforming power of the Holy Spirit giving life-changing hope to the lost. When a person gives their heart away to Jesus, they leave their life of sin behind and choose to move forward in faith. A lost and dead soul has now received new life in Jesus Christ! Grave stones are being opened every day as people come to know the Lord. Are you grave digging or a stone rolling?

The Gospel message did not end on the day Jesus hung on a tree. I challenge you today to ask the question, “What am I accomplishing for the kingdom of God?” Lives are being lost each day, yet Christ has spoken His power into our hearts. Life doesn’t have to end at the grave. It all begins anew in Christ. Do you know what it truly feels like to leave your grave of sin behind?

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.

Coming out!

Today’s Reading: John 11:41-44 (NIV)

41 So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank You that you have heard me. 42 I knew that You always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that You sent me.” 43 When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

Good morning!

One morning not long ago, I walked into my kitchen and immediately smelled a deathly odor. I knew before I ever reached the goldfish bowl what I would find. Jonah John had crossed over from his earthly fishbowl into the great river of life. His spirit had obviously left the building but the earthly remains were stinking up my house! He had passed in the night and it did not take long for that rotten smell to permeate the house. While holding my breath, I buried my buddy at sea, and tried to eliminate the residual odor as best I could. It took several days for the stench to completely disappear. Once you begin to recognize what death truly smells like, it is something you will not forget.

Lazarus wasn’t just sick - he was dead. He had been in the grave for four whole days. Rot and decay had set in. Eventually, all that remained of Lazarus’ earthly life were the bones that supported his earthly frame. Jesus didn’t lay hands on Lazarus. He didn’t go into the cave where Lazarus’ body lay and perform some sort of mystical deed. Lazarus’ body was wrapped in strips of linen, lying in the cold stone tomb. His ears no longer functioned. His eyes could not see. His lips could not speak. But everything changed when Jesus called out his name. "Lazarus, come out!" The spirit spoke to flesh and Lazarus heard the Master’s voice and obeyed.

Friends, we have managed to dig our own graves filling them with our sins and failures. We’ve worked hard to hide our broken hearts, hoping no one will notice the foul stench inside. The greatest miracle in life occurs when we hear and answer the voice of Jesus as He calls us out of the grave! His spirit speaks to our flesh, and we cannot help but leave our past behind, choosing to obey and follow Him.

This miracle recorded in the book of John holds a special significance for me. Just like Jesus called Lazarus from the grave, He has called me to come out from the sin that buried my heart in guilt and shame, and begin to live anew in the light of mercy and grace. In this cave, my flesh was wasting away. Rotten to the core, no perfume, make-up, not stylish clothing could hide the decay in my heart. It took a personal call from a real Savior, my Lord Jesus Christ, to bring me out from the grave I had dug. He alone has the power to remove the strips of linen from my face.

On this, his brand new day, Lazarus took a fresh breath of new life. His spirit heard the call of Christ and he obeyed. This same miracle of new life can be yours today. Jesus Christ is calling you to come out, leave your sin behind, and follow Him. Will you hear and obey the call of Jesus Christ today? This day can be your resurrection day.

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.

Breathless wonder

Today’s Reading: John 11:38-40 (NIV)

38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39 “Take away the stone,” He said. “But Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

Good morning!

Last night, I was working at the computer, taking an online test for work, when my cell phone rang. I heard the words a grandmother does not ever want to hear. “Maddie has stopped breathing; she’s been taken by ambulance – Ben is on his way to the hospital – go NOW.” I promptly failed the online exam I was taking, grabbed my shoes, husband and car keys, and off we sped to the hospital ER, wondering what in the world had happened. It was an awful ten minute moment in the car. I don’t think I took a deep breath from the time the phone call came until we arrived at the ER.

Kari’s mother was panic-stricken, and with good reason. I thought she might pass out in my arms as we grandmothers cried together in the hospital corridor. Apparently, Madison was wailing for Mommy to pick her up when she suddenly stopped breathing and fell like a limp rag into my daughter-in-law’s arms. It appeared as if Maddie might have suffered a small seizure and then there was nothing; no movement, no response. She was breathless. Nancy said they called 911 but it took an eternity for the paramedics to arrive. When fear grips us, seconds seem like an eternity. What do you do when someone you love becomes breathless?

By the time the paramedics got Maddie to the hospital, she was awake and breathing normally again. An oxygen mask helped boost her air intake. Maddie was fussy and sleepy looking, but breathing on her own. Two hours later, the ER doc gave us the good news – Maddie had experienced what pediatricians have coined as a breath holding spell. A common occurrence for many strong-willed two year olds who startle suddenly or want something that is out of their reach, they begin to cry uncontrollably, and without warning, suddenly pass out, becoming limp and lifeless. That momentary shut down gives their brain a chance to do a little remix. Maddie had not had the life-threatening seizure as we had feared and she had not choked or aspirated on the Popsicle® she had just consumed. It wasn’t a diabetic response to the sugar intake, and fortunately, Maddie had not choked. This was the best case scenario to a very frightening life event. We returned home with grateful hearts, thanking God for life and breath and the priceless gift of our granddaughter Madison.

Jesus stood at the tomb of his friend Lazarus. There was no breath – no life; only the sounds of the weeping women who had lost their brother to death’s strong grip. When Jesus commanded the men to roll away the stone, Martha feared the worst. Her brother had been breathless for four days and she was certain the foul stench would overcome them all. Jesus spoke new breath into Martha’s fainting heart when He said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

We experience life, death, and a lot of breathless moments every day. God's glory is revealed through faith, and it is that faith which we cling to for new life. Can you see the glory of God shining this morning? He reveals His amazing power to you and me in these moments of breathless wonder.

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.

When God cries

Today’s Reading: John 11:34-37 (NIV)

34 “Where have you laid him?” Jesus asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. 35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not He who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”

Good morning!

I wonder how Mary and Martha must have felt as they watched God cry. Their best friend and the Savior of the world stood at their side, in community, weeping holy tears of sadness. Do you think God cries today?

I believe God cries when He sees the suffering of the little children in the Condo, orphaned and left all alone, watching their parents die in the ravages of civil war and rampant-spreading disease. He hears the cries of every hungry child, wasting away in utter starvation, suffering intense physical pain. We gaze into the hollow eyes of a sick and hurting child, and know that God must be crying tears of grief. I’ve heard that when rain falls from heaven, it nourishes the land, providing our rivers and streams a rich new life. These are the tears of a broken-hearted Father, as He observes the suffering of His precious created ones. What will it take for us to learn how to willingly share our resources with each another? How many millions will have to die before we find a way to feed the hungry children in our world?

One tear falling from the Master’s face can heal a blind man’s sight, restore hearing to the deaf, and help a lame man walk again. One tear shed in grief will raise the dead to new and vibrant life. When God cries, hardened hearts melt, minds are transformed, and people learn how to love each other as Christ loves each and every of us. Nothing stays the same when God cries.

Jesus wept at the tomb of His friend, and the Jews exclaimed, “See how He loved him!” Jesus is crying out for your heart today. His tears will totally transform your life, if you are willing to stand in His holy rain. Come experience the love of Jesus Christ today. I’ve saved a seat for you at Faith Church.

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 gift of our tears

Today’s Reading: John 11:32-33 (NIV)

32 When Mary reached the place where Jesus was and saw Him, she fell at His feet and said, “Lord, if You had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping, and the Jews who had come along with her also weeping, He was deeply moved in spirit and troubled.

Good morning!

Jesus knew what it was like to be troubled in spirit. Have you ever been troubled in spirit? There are moments when the Holy Spirit speaks to my heart, and it is all I can do to hold the tears back. I’ve learned that my tears are a gracious gift from God. The tears we shed help us express inexpressible emotions we feel and cannot capture with words. Tears overwhelm us in times of extraordinary happiness or even in moments of deep sadness and regret. Tears fall as we cry out to God for help to feed, clothe, shelter, educate and provide medical care for our brothers and sisters around the world who are struggling for survival. Our tears are reflective of the prayers we pray each day, washing over us in waves of anguish and despair, mercy and grace. Like tidal waves running against the shoreline, washing away the footprints we left behind in the sand just moments before, our tears help us move beyond grief, so that we can see evermore clearly the path that is set before us.

We cannot be in the same room with someone who is grieving loss and not respond to that pain. One would have to have a heart of stone not to care about a brother or sister who is hurting. One of my pastors stopped to inquire about the health of my children during a ten-minute break at the 2008 United Methodist General Conference. As I spoke, I noticed the tears welling up in her eyes. The compassion she felt for my family was overwhelming to me. Without uttering a word, I knew she understood my heart. Tears are confirmation of shared empathy. Often times, our tears cry out the words we simply cannot.

Jesus knew when He arrived at Bethany that the Father would give Him the authority to raise Lazarus from the dead. Yet, the Lord was moved to tears by the shared grief of his friends. Jesus was troubled in spirit, even though He could see beyond the grief. He knew how this story would end, and yet, Jesus stopped to grieve with His people. Of all the passages of Scripture written about my Lord, this particular account brings me great personal comfort. It puts a real face on a real Savior. Our Lord understands what it means to be grieved and troubled in spirit. He cries with the brokenhearted and troubled ones. Only He can dry our tears and give us His direction for a future with hope. Offer yourself today to the One who personally understands what it means to grieve. Jesus cries with us as we cry out in love for one another, even as He knows how this story will end. We are so not alone.

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.

When He asks you to come, will you?

Today’s Reading: John 11:28-29 (NIV)

28 And after she had said this, Martha went back and called her sister Mary aside. “The Teacher is here,” she said, “and is asking for you.” 29 When Mary heard this, she got up quickly and went to Him.

Good morning!

I witnessed a living miracle on Monday afternoon during the 2008 United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Twenty-three children from Uganda’s Hope for Africa Children’s Choir walked onto center stage and began to sing, as the Holy Spirit enveloped the entire arena. Big smiles on little faces expressed thanksgiving to the Lord Jesus Christ through worship in song. They came specifically to share the Gospel message with all who gathered here. The people of the United Methodist Church rejoice with these precious children, who receive hope and help each day through the ministries of Humble School. The Humble United Methodist School in Mukono became a reality through the visioning spearheaded by Bishop Michael Watson and the people of the South Georgia Regional Conference. Partnering with the East Africa Conference and the Ugandan church, the South Georgia conference, along with United Methodists from Virginia, Kentucky and Pennsylvania and the United Methodist Board of Global Ministries, purchased land for the building of Humble School in 2001. The school opened its doors in 2004 to serve the children of this war-ravaged country and for those who had lost parents to HIV/AIDS. Here, the Hope for Africa Children’s Choir and Academy was birthed. The children’s choir will remain in the United States through July of 2008, as they offer their gift of music ministry. To learn more about the Hope for Africa Children’s Choir, please send your e-mail inquiry to infor@hopeforafricachildrenschoir.org.

There is a future with hope for the children of the world, and it all begins when one person takes a God-given vision and pursues it with passion. The Lord calls each of us to help the children of the world. When we link our hearts and hands together the vine begins to grow, and it stretches to places like Mukuno, where children are fed, sheltered and loved. They receive an education with an opportunity of one day becoming future leaders in the communities where they live. At Humble School, the children experience the love of Christ each day. His love is the love than transforms us all.

Martha went to Mary and said, “The teacher is here, and is asking for you.” Mary got up quickly and went to the Lord. When Jesus calls you to act, are you quick to respond? Together, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of these children. Come and find out how you can be part of this life-giving mission and ministry. We look forward to meeting you this weekend at Faith Church!

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.

There is no space quite like Hope's place

Today’s Reading: John 11:27 (TNIV)

27 “Yes Lord,” [Martha told Jesus], “I believe that You are the Messiah, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.”

Good morning!

When I arrived at the 2008 United Methodist Church General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas USA, I had no doubt where the Lord would have me invest my time and energy. I’ve been spending it in the prayer labyrinth located in the Exhibit Hall at the Fort Worth Convention Center. For months now, I have been preparing for this moment in time. My faith has been strengthened in the power and presence of the Holy Spirit as I walk the labyrinth each day. I find hope here.

This prayer labyrinth is constructed in the design of that found in the Chartres Cathedral near Paris, France. It is an eleven-circuit design divided into four quadrants. There are three parts in experiencing a prayer labyrinth: releasing (praise and confession), illumination (listening and receiving), and returning (home to Christ). There is only one way into the labyrinth and only one way out, which I find extremely meaningful in understanding the redemptive work of our Savior. The walk takes a pilgrim through many narrow paths, filled with many twists and turns, leading to the center. As we weave our way along the path, it is symbolic of one’s spiritual journey to the cross. I find great peace in praying the Scripture as I walk around each narrow turn. Because I am seeking His Word and will for my life and for the life of the church I love, my thoughts and words become insignificant; while His Word is all I long for. There is hope here; of this I am certain.

Around the perimeter of the prayer Labyrinth are eleven distinct stations, each display evoking a particular message of God’s grace and beauty. One of the prayer stations contains a tree, whose leaves bear the names of every annual conference around the world. It is a reminder of how we are united through Christ to be His body in the world today. Another display contains a beautiful depiction of the river of life, intertwined from many colorful fabrics. I can hear the river running as I sit on its bank to pray. There is no space quite like hope’s place.

When Jesus asked Martha what she believed, she replied, “I believe that you are the Messiah, the Son of God, who was to come into the world.” As we journey together through life, it is my humble prayer that you find yourself on the path that leads to the cross. It is at the cross we find forgiveness for the sins we have committed, restoration of body, mind and spirit, and His peace that passes all human understanding. Place your hope today in the giver of new life. He is waiting for you to take your journey to the cross. Won’t you join me on a prayer walk 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.

Do you believe this?

Today’s Reading: John 11:24-25 (The Net Bible)

24 Martha said, “I know that he [Lazarus] will come back to life again in the resurrection at the last day.” 25 Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even if he dies, 26 and the one who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Good morning!

Yesterday, our air flight carried us to a cruising altitude of 32,000 feet. We ascended high above the storms that were pealing across the St. Louis metropolitan area. I watched, awestruck, as streaks of lightening shot past our window pane. I could feel the turbulent winds shake the aircraft as it moved beyond the clouds and into a patch of bright sunlight. And oh, what a beautiful sight it was - high above those storm clouds. The lining of the cumulonimbus cloud formations coupled with the bright sea of sunshine reminded me of a hymn I learned as a child: “There’s a land that is fairer than day and by faith we will see it afar, for the Father waits over the way to prepare us a dwelling place there. In the sweet by and by, we shall meet on that beautiful shore.” The view from my seat in that airplane was spectacular! For the very first time, it was as if I could see heaven’s shore just over the way, shining in a place where there was total Son light. I sat back and closed my eyes, and asked God if this is how it will feel to be carried away one day to heaven. I am traveling with Him through the storm clouds of this life, one sweet day to suddenly feel the arms of my Lord lift me into the land that is fairer than day. God gave me a glimpse of the eternal on that airplane, and I will never forget it as long as I live.

Martha knew that her brother would one day rise at the resurrection of the last day. Then Jesus said the words that we hold so dear: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live even if he dies, and the one who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Today, we celebrate the resurrection and the life! This is the reason we have come to Fort Worth to join in the mighty chorus together! Yes, we believe that You Jesus, are the resurrection and the life, and we believe that even if we die, we live; and when we live and believe in You, we will never die! It is a gift of inexpressible mercy and grace, and it is a gift to be shared.

If you do not yet know Jesus Christ, I invite you to come and worship with me this weekend. There is a United Methodist Church waiting to greet you with open hearts, open minds and open doors. Won’t you come and join us as we celebrate the resurrection and the life 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.