Be blessed!

Today’s Reading: John 13:16-17(NIV)

16 [Jesus said,] “I tell you the truth, no servant is greater than His master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. 17 Now that you know these things, you will be blessed IF you do them.”

Good morning!

I have been looking forward to this day since I attended the Missouri United Methodist Annual Conference in June. I’m taking a road trip today to visit my friends Dorothy and Phil in Nixa, Missouri. I plan to watch and learn as Dorothy prepares the videotape to be used in the contemporary Christian worship service on Sunday morning at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. And. as an added bonus, I get to hear her husband Phil deliver the sermon tomorrow in worship! I’m enrolled in summer classes at Lindenwood University, and one of the course requirements is that I critique seven pastors as they deliver their weekend messages. Phil doesn’t know it yet, but I’m going to be recording every word he says tomorrow. Please don’t tell him I said that. ☺

We can learn so much from each other. True confession: I’m electronically challenged. It took me years to learn how to flip the “on” switch to our family television set without messing it up. My husband Jeff would tell you that this has NOT improved. Last weekend, I was cleaning out a spare bedroom, and I came across what I thought was an old cable box, no longer in use, still plugged into the wall. The box was warm to the touch, and I figured we didn’t need it, so I simply unplugged it, tossed it in a storage container, and placed it downstairs in the basement. Later that weekend, Jeff flipped on the television set to watch one of his favorite programs, and, for some reason, the satellite didn’t work! It was a beautiful, sunny day outside we were not having any severe wind. We couldn’t figure out why the satellite was not working until I remembered the box. Yes, you guessed it - I unplugged the satellite and we actually had to call David and ask him to come and fix it for us. D’oh! When it comes to electronics, I need all the heavenly help I can get!

Each one of us has been given a special gift to use for kingdom work. My gift is obviously not electronics, but my friend Dorothy is awesome at it! She will teach me a lot this weekend. And I will encourage her every step of the way, because that is a gift that God has given me to use. We can compliment each other, simply because God has brought us together in friendship, and in ministry. Together, we have the incredible opportunity to touch hearts and reach out with Christ’s love around the world. Can you imagine what would happen if our churches pooled their resources, gifts and willing service, working together to spread the Gospel message? It is happening everywhere! Folks are sharing ideas and offering help to help others grow, for the glory of God alone! This is exactly what Jesus told us to do. And it is such a privilege to be part of a body of believers that are not locked in a dead heat competition, but who are more than willing to help each other grow and learn and share.

You know, I probably shouldn’t be the one to plug in the computer tomorrow morning just before worship, because we want it to work! But I will be praying and cheering my friend on. And Dorothy will teach me what I need to learn so that I can be more effective in the work God has called me to do. We can help each other, and the end result is a beautiful thing. Jesus said, “No servant is greater than His master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. So now that you know these things, you will be blessed IF you do them.”

Today is an awesome day to be doubly blessed! Thank you dear Father, for the gifts you give each of us. We offer ourselves to you today. Teach us how to help each other as we spread Your love around the world together. In Jesus’ name, we 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.

First steps

Today’s Reading: John 13:15(NIV)

15 [Jesus said,] “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.”

Good morning!

There is nothing more exciting than seeing a baby turned toddler take its first steps. Last night, Grandpa Jeff and Granny Deb sat on the soft carpeting of the living room floor, cheering and encouraging our youngest grandson Andrew on, as he took his very first steps to us. Rachel said that Andrew took two steps over the weekend, but had not been brave enough to try again. I think he needed an older, more mature audience. He was high-stepping it last night! It’s funny – the wee ones get so excited that they begin to laugh and then they lose their balance and fall down. It helps when there is someone there to pull you back up on your feet and encourage you to try again. Andrew really liked all the applause. He would stop midway between us and start to clap for himself, knowing we would clap along with him. Isn’t it great to experience some sense of accomplishment, even as you’re learning how to walk the steep path set before you?

I read an inspiring article today on the United Methodist News Service wire entitled, “Pittsburgh Church Helps Amputees in Sierra Leone” – the link is listed below:

http://www.umc.org/site/apps/nlnet/content3.aspx?c=lwL4KnN1LtH&b=2072

The congregation of Mount Lebanon United Methodist Church was able to watch a video clip and see for themselves their mission gifts of love at work. They experienced the wonder of awesome transformation as young children fitted with prosthetic legs are now able to walk, run and play with their families and friends. First steps are all the more precious when courageous hearts dare to make a difference in the lives of others.

Today, our nation celebrates and remembers its first steps on this Independence Day holiday. We are reminded of our country’s struggle toward freedom, the many times when we’ve fallen down, only to be helped up by an encouraging neighbor. We lend our support to help others who are struggling to get back up again, knowing that when we link hands and hearts together, we succeed in taking those crucial first steps of faith. Jesus said, “I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you.” May we find new ways each day to encourage and support each other, as we imitate the example of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. May our first steps begin and end in His love.

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.

Getting caught in the spin cycle

Today’s Reading: John 13:13-4(NIV)

13 [Jesus said,] “You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. 14 Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you should also wash one another’s feet.

Good morning!

Can you imagine what the world might be like if every human heart cared more about their neighbors than themselves? What if we lived out our days with a single purpose to make a lasting and positive difference in the life of another human heart?

We are very busy people. Our days are filled to the brim with commitments we’ve made to our families, our employers, and even to our passions and hobbies. We get to where we’re going, but we find it hard to connect. And even when we’re physically present, we may not be completely accounted for. It’s as if our minds are so busy that we cannot seem to engage and focus on the present moment, completely distracted by the things we are trying to cross off our to-do list. Now that gasoline prices have reached to a whole new level, many families are planning stay-cations this summer. What a novel approach to relaxation! Take your vacation by staying home and enjoying time off with your family in a familiar surrounding. Clean out a closet; donate some of those things that have been collecting dust on a shelf to a local charity. Cook a meal and share it with a neighbor. Spend a few days helping to build a Habitat home, or volunteer to cook and serve some meals at a homeless shelter. We sometimes forget how to be in relationship with others because we cannot seem to stop the busy cycle of our lives. It’s kind of like what happens when your washing machine gets caught in spin mode. Eventually, the laundry gets all knotted up inside the washer and the machine takes on a life of its own as it begins to walk itself across the room, bouncing and banging all the way. Is your life so busy that you are being tossed about in a never-ending spin cycle? Are you willing to set aside some time for someone else?

Jesus loves us. He loves us so much that He sets a picture perfect example of servant leadership. He stoops down to the ground and washes the feet of all who will let Him. None of us deserve to have our feet washed by the Lord of life, and yet, Jesus doesn’t hesitate to wash even the dirtiest of feet. He takes on the role of a faithful servant, not looking for accolades or compliments or even remuneration for a job well done. He didn’t ask the question, “What’s in it for me?” when He knelt at the feet of His disciples and washed their feet. Jesus cared so much more for the condition of their “souls” that He would lay aside His very life to cleanse and redeem them. What kind of love cares more about someone else than they care about themselves?

It’s time to move past the spin-cycle and do some serious foot-washing. Lord Jesus, help me follow in Your footsteps today. Show me how to serve You by becoming a willing and faithful foot-washer. 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.

Unconditional love

Today’s Reading: John 13:12(NIV)

12 When He had finished washing their feet, [Jesus] put on His clothes and returned to His place. “Do you understand what I have done for you?” he asked them.

Good morning!

When a parent gives their child a gift, they may not fully realize the full impact or the sacrifice that was made when the gift is given. I remember when our daughter Rachel had an opportunity during high school to receive supplemental vocational training at a local cosmetology school. The tuition was more money than we had in our checking account, and because she had not yet graduated, we were unable to receive a student loan for the up-front fees. Rachel longed to attend, so Jeff and I looked for ways to quickly raise the tuition due. I sold our piano. The money we received for the sale was just enough to pay her enrollment fees. I have never regretted this choice. It was worth the sacrifice, just to see the joy and self-confidence that Rachel received from attending these classes. She loved learning, and it certainly gave her the added motivation to move forward and continue her education beyond high school. If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t hesitate to give whatever I had to help my children achieve their fullest potential. Like every parent, we hope that our children will one day step up to the plate in the World Series of life and hit a home run that will make a lasting difference for others.

After Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He returned to the place at the table and asked a question: Do you understand what I have done for you? Jesus was living proof of the sacrifice He would soon make for the ultimate benefit of humanity. His suffering did not begin on the cross. Leaving a perfect heaven and choosing to enter into an imperfect world; to become the holy atonement for humanity’s sin is almost more than I can understand. What loving parent would give everything they had to save a disobedient and wayward child from total destruction? How far would a parent’s love extend to the prodigal who is lost and cannot find their way home without divine help?

Do you understand the supreme sacrifice that the Father, through Jesus, made for you? How can we begin to thank Him for His gift of unconditional love?

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.

True cleanliness

Today’s Reading: John 13:11(NIV)

11 For He [Jesus] knew who was going to betray Him, and that was why He said not every one was clean.

Good morning!

My mother had a thing about cleanliness, especially on Sunday mornings. When I was a young girl growing up in the early “sixties,” Sunday mornings were celebrated as a holy day, set apart for worship and relaxation. All of our neighbors went to church on Sunday. We knew every neighbor on our street, which I think is a rare phenomenon now. If someone asked you the names of the folks living on your block, could you name them, along with their children’s names, and maybe tell a little bit about their family history? On our street, we not only knew our neighbors – we could tell you where they were attending worship on Sunday and approximately what time their cars would leave their driveways. Saturday nights were always spent preparing for Sunday. Everyone on our street retired early on Saturday night – it was rare to see living room lights on after 9pm. Mothers cooked a good portion of their family’s Sunday meal on Saturday afternoon. It would have been wrong to spend all day cooking in the kitchen on Sunday. That’s because Sundays were special. On Saturday night, we bathed, rolled our hair in pink sponge curlers, painted our finger nails, and laid out our “Sunday-go-to-meeting clothes” which included hats, gloves and black patent shoes. My father owned one Sunday suit, and he wore it faithfully each week. I would watch him as he pulled on his neck collar during the pastor’s sermon every Sunday morning. I truly don’t think Daddy enjoyed wearing a tie and jacket all that much.

In 2008, we advertise our worship services with church marquees and slogans that say “Come as you are!” In the last fifty years, US culture has made a complete 180° turn in the time-honored traditions of personal preparation and cleanliness for Sunday morning worship. We don’t seem to care nearly as much about how folks are dressed or whether they’ve bathed and shaved before walking through the sanctuary doors. It is our hope that people simply care enough to get out of bed on a day they could have chosen to sleep in, to come and worship the Lord Jesus Christ. It’s not nearly as important to come clean to church. It’s much more important to come clean at church, where we lay down the dirty baggage of our personal guilt and shame at the foot of the cross. We find healing and wholeness in the presence of the Lord. This is the place where true cleanliness occurs.

When we prepare to purchase a new automobile, our eyes are often drawn to the exterior. Is this vehicle a make and model which we find personally appealing? How many added accessories can we get for the least amount of money? Is the chrome shiny and does this vehicle have that “new car” scent? Would we purchase an automobile solely based upon the condition of the exterior, without first checking to be sure this car has an engine that actually works? Would we not want to pop the top and take a look on the inside first? No matter how clean and shiny we may be on the outside, we must first be concerned about the condition and reliability of the interior.

How did Jesus know who would betray Him? The answer to this question is not nearly as difficult as one may think. Christ looks beyond our exterior; He reaches past our motivations and traditions, our culture and complacency; Christ looks underneath the hood to see our heart’s innermost desires and motivations. He offers complete restoration for every human soul. Jesus can do a complete overhaul if we will simply let Him. Come to Christ just as you are; He will clean you up from the inside out. I’ll see 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.

Overexposed!

Today’s Reading: John 13:10(NIV)

10 Jesus answered, “A person who has had a bath needs only to wash his feet; his whole body is clean. And you are clean, though not every one of you.”

Good morning!

I saw an ophthalmologist this week for an eye exam. The physician’s assistant ran several preliminary tests, identifying the best corrective contact lens for my particular need. She placed special drops in my eyes and left me in the dark for a short time, while my pupils dilated. My doctor examined the circulatory system and my optic nerves. I was over-exposed and I knew it. The lights were excruciatingly bright. The magnifiers he placed in front of my eyes enhanced the brightness as I blinked back tears. Even though the examination was painful, the end result was certainly worth it. I received the good news that my optic nerves look healthy and pink.

Have you ever allowed yourself to become completely vulnerable to a soul searching by the Master? It can be quite painful, although the end result is worth the cost. Every human heart has a spiritual condition measured in the depths of our hearts. Like the ravages of an overload of sugar in our blood stream, unrepentant sin in our lives can slowly build up and begin to eat away at our ability to see clearly, think rationally, and act responsibly. If we do not allow the Master healer an opportunity to dilate, expose and examine the recesses of our hearts, we cannot become completely clean before Him. It is kind of like taking a sponge bath: once we’ve showered, we may only need to wash our feet to rid ourselves of the unwanted dirt on our bodies. But there are days when we must submit ourselves to a total cleansing, to rid ourselves of the dirt in our lives, both seen and unseen.

Jesus said, “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light.” Leaving the doctor’s office that afternoon, I was acutely aware of the bright sunlight pressing through my eyes and into the recesses of my heart. I was overexposed; my eyes unable to readjust to the bright light of day. I just wanted to go home, and I knew if I was going to get there, I would need the Master’s help. In this moment, I chose to completely depend upon the Lord to be my personal chauffeur and guide.

All of us long to get home. The road trip requires that we submit ourselves to overexposure by God. The light of life reveals the darkest sins hiding inside our hearts. He has the power and authority to remove the deep stain of sin that prevents us from experiencing complete relationship with a holy and perfect Father. Allow yourself to be overexposed in the Master’s presence today. He will fill you with His brand new light. Jesus Christ is the way, the truth and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Him. It is time to be examined by the Lord.

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 greater good

Today’s Reading: John 13:7-9(NIV)

7 Jesus replied, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” 8 “No,” said Peter, “You shall never wash my feet.” Jesus answered, “Unless I wash you, you have no part with me.” 9 “Then Lord,” Simon Peter replied, “not just my feet but my hands and my head as well!”

Good morning!

As parents, we often make decisions for our young children based upon the greater good. We may choose not to feed them sugary sweets, even though the neighbor’s kids have full access to the candy jar and a pantry full of junk food. Studies have proven that prolonged high fat, high sugar intake can cause deadly diseases, even in our young ones, whose high metabolisms cannot compete with sugar overload. Our babies are not happy campers when Mom and Dad continue to say no. They just want their cravings satisfied, not caring at the moment what the long-term effects may be. Some children wrestle with a sweet tooth long into their adult years. I’ve met many adults who struggle with cravings in their food choices: I am one of them.

We make decisions, knowing that the ones who depend upon us will not understand why at this particular moment in time. Maybe they do not have enough foresight to grasp the bigger picture. Often, our selfish side rails against a choice less savory. We would much rather stay up all night playing and watching movies, than go to bed at a decent hour, to give our bodies the much needed 6-8 hour minimum window of rest. Have you ever met a child who didn’t get frustrated when they hear their parents say, “Time for bed!”

As Jesus prepared to wash Peter’s feet, He said, “You do not realize now what I am doing, but later you will understand.” I’m sure Simon Peter didn’t enjoy hearing this particular comment. He longed to know the deeper meaning of faith. Yet, Peter was ashamed that the Master whom he served would choose to wash his feet. They were stinky and filthy, and Peter knew it. He was embarrassed and humbled, and could not possibly grasp what greater good could come from Christ’s act of servant leadership. He did not understand that Jesus was preparing Peter for the life he would lead after He had been crucified, dead and raised. At that particular moment, he could not see that allowing the Lord of life to wash His feet would become a way of life everlasting for all who followed Jesus.

It is not always easy to see the greater good when it comes to matters of faith. We may not completely understand how and why right now. Still, our loving Father calls us to simply trust and obey His Word. We can rely upon Jesus to lead us in the way that leads to life eternal. It is for the greater good.

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.

It's a wash!

Today’s Reading: John 13:6(NIV)

6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to Him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

Good morning!

It is sometimes a difficult thing to let others serve you. We live in a mindset of self-sufficiency. We raise our children up, hoping they will one day become independent, productive adults. We pray they will learn to take care of themselves and not depend upon the graces of others for their daily needs. It doesn’t always work that way; many parents are still out there dreaming of the day when their children will finally assume full responsibility for their lives.

There are times, however, when we need to rely upon others for help. When we become ill and our bodies are in a weakened condition, we may need someone to assist us with even the simplest of tasks. I remember the helpless state I found myself in after having neck surgery some years ago. The anesthesia completely made me immobile for a period of time while my body healed. I could not open my eyelids without the assistance of my physician. I could not lift my arms or legs without the help of the charge nurse. I was unable to ring a call light for help. I’ve never experienced anything so frustrating or frightening. I was thankful that the time I spent in temporary paralysis was short-lived. Yet, there are many people today who suffer with long-term paralysis, who find they are wholly leaning upon the assistance of others to help them survive each day.

Simon Peter was appalled when Jesus approached him with the towel and basin. There was no way this independent, capable man was going to let the Lord of life wash his dirty feet. In complete surprise, I can hear Peter say: “Lord, I couldn’t possibly let you wash me. I can do this myself.” Just like Simon Peter, we all think we can wash our own dirty feet, removing the gunk of sin-buildup over our years of independent life experience. We don’t think we’re sick enough for a Savior, yet. We can slough off all the things we’ve said and done through the years that have hurt others. If we just do ten good things, we can maybe wipe out that one really big mistake we made in a fit of childlike rebellion and anger. We can wash our own feet, thank you very much – we just don’t need God to fix the messes we’ve made, do we?

Imagine the Lord Jesus Christ standing before you today with a towel and basin in His hand. He is quietly waiting for you to give Him your dirty feet, your broken heart, and your sin-sick soul. He is waiting to take your sin upon Himself because He loves you! In fact, He has already done this for you at Calvary. Jesus is pleading with you to give it up now, give it all to Him. We think we can do this squeaky clean thing all on our own. Without accepting Christ’s gift of salvation, we will never be able to rid ourselves of the sins that separate us from the Father. What will you do? Are you willing to lay aside your self-sufficient attitude, get real with God, and allow Jesus Christ to wash your sins away, once and for all?

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.

Barefoot living

Today’s Reading: John 13:3-5(NIV)

3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power, and that He had come from God and was returning to God, 4 so He got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him.

Good morning!

When I’m home, I like to go barefooted around the house. I wear dress shoes every day of the week and it is a treat for me to put my shoes in the closet and not look at them for a few hours each day. Because I enjoy going barefooted, my feet tend to get really dirty, especially if I run outside to the garden or make a quick trip to the curb with the trash. Jeff laughs at my small feet and tiny toes. He claims my toes do not touch the ground, but I know better; they certainly get dirty when I’m running around without socks and shoes.

Once a month, I make a visit to one of my favorite nail salons for a pedicure. Through the years, I’ve developed thick calluses from going barefoot. Pedicurists are very special people. They willingly scrub and massage sore and swollen feet, removing the dirt that has embedded itself inside the tough, leathery skin, moisturizing all the rough edges with lotions and crèmes that make your feet feel brand new. It is a treasured gift for those who enjoy a little barefoot living. If you’ve never experienced this type of foot washing, I would highly recommend it.

When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He did so much more than wash away the dirt that had caked around their sandals. This one act of love expressed so much more than words could ever say. In this culture, people got dirty every day outside on unpaved paths and in the fields. When they entered the home for the evening meal, their feet and hands were filthy. Customarily, a servant would greet each guest at the door, and offer them a towel and basin to wash their hands and feet. Jesus took it upon Himself to kneel down before His disciples, and quietly wash away the dirt that had collected on their feet. What kind of love is this?

Jesus is washing away more than just a little dirt. He literally softened the hardened hearts of His people, by removing the thick calluses of sin that kept them from experiencing a brand new life in Him. In this genuine act of humility and love, Christ completely cleansed and made whole broken and well-worn hearts; through His healing touch and power. All of us need to experience the healing touch of Jesus, not only on our dirty feet, but for every aspect of our lives.

It’s time to take your shoes off and experience a little barefoot living in the presence of the Lord. He will cleanse and make you whole today, if you will simply ask 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.

Don't let the devil make you do it

Today’s Reading: John 13:2(NIV)

2 The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus.

Good morning!

I think we all probably have a little bit of Judas in us. Maybe it’s just me. I know I have my moments, when the words that spew from my mouth come quicker than I can catch and retain them. I attended a funeral service yesterday for a woman with whom I hold a great deal of respect. Sylvia lived her life by helping others. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to many. But the thing that made Sylvia so unique was how she never had a harsh word for anyone. She was truly kind-hearted person and never was cruel, especially with her words. What a testimony to a life well-lived! Sylvia emulated the spiritual gifts of kindness and goodness, patience and self-control, in every aspect of her living and dying.

I sometimes wonder about Judas’ motivation. Honestly, I don’t think he was trying to frame Jesus. I think Judas must have thought if he could just convince Jesus to confront the Roman authorities, He would speak and they would listen to Him and things would change. He was eager for Jesus to act, to overthrow Roman rule once and for all. Even after three years in His presence, Judas didn’t get it. He didn’t see the master plan. Judas couldn’t understand that even after he betrayed the Lord, there would have been forgiveness for him, had he asked and believed. It is an ongoing debate within theological circles about Judas’ intent and motivation. Yet, when I look at this man’s life and compare it to my own, I realize I could have been him.

Comedian Flip Wilson may have coined the phrase, “The devil made me do it!” but did you know it was Scriptural? Even during the evening meal, Satan was tempting Judas to betray the Lord. Judas knew he had a window of opportunity to connect the Roman guard with Jesus’ whereabouts. Did he want Jesus to die? Do you think he realized what was going to happen?

Today is a very good day to remember that the choices we make have lifelong consequences; not only for ourselves but for all those we know and love. We make decisions each day. We must remember just how easy it is to slip into sin, especially when we take our eyes off Jesus and focus on our own personal agenda and desires.

Don’t let the devil make you do it. Just say no, in Jesus’ name.

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 full extent of His love

Today’s Reading: John 13:1(NIV)

1 It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for Him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved His own who were in the world, He now showed them the full extent of His love.

Good morning!

I had a dream last night. I was watching an old black and white rerun on television. The story was about the life and death of someone I thought I knew. There were no masterful touch ups, no obvious second takes in this show. The truth of his reclusive life was revealed without sweet sugar-coating. This was a documentary film, revealing a life of one whose sad existence went seemingly unnoticed by the world around him. It told the story of who he was, what he had become, and how he might be remembered, if anyone cared to remember him at all.

I entered the room alone, lined with empty chairs. There were no flowers along the walls near the casket. There was no one to speak words to, no bereaved ones to comfort. The deafening silence was so shrill that it hurt my ears to hear. No one seemed to care he was gone.

My mind began to wander as I thought about what it might be like to die, having no one there to miss me. What if the poor choices I made in life far surpassed any tangible memory of the goodness God planted inside my heart? If the demons that destroyed my earthly flesh continued to hold me in solitary confinement for all eternity, what could I possibly have to look forward to in death? Would my soul rest in peace? Would my soul rest at all?

Suddenly, the scene changed. A pastor, dressed in a black tweed suit, stood at the head of the dead man’s casket. His feet planted on a soggy, rain-drenched tarp, he spoke words of hope into the thick, stormy air. The wind was whipping wildly around the white funeral tent, where a few blank faces stared out into the pouring rain. He said. “We are here today to grieve the things that could have been. We write our own funeral sermons by the life we choose to live. God Almighty is crying today for this precious child, and the heavens have opened up with healing rain.” In that breathless moment, when I thought my own heart would break with grief for a man who I did not know, I watched in astonishment as the light of life moved through the garden gate. Coming toward the casket, His nail-scarred hands were reaching out in love, extending eternal friendship to the one the world had forgotten to love. I heard my Jesus say, “Rise up, dear one. Today, you will walk with me in paradise.”

He lived his earthly life in black and white. In the fleeting moments preceding his very last breath, this man made a deathbed confession that only God would hear and understand. How could a loving Father send His only Son to bear the shame of a sinful world on a cruel cross? The answer is clear. Jesus willingly came for the sick, the road weary and the lost. His love reaches beyond human understanding or life experience. Jesus died for the friendless. He lives so we can live again with Him.

At the end of our earthly journey, there is a new beginning. As the memory of this earthly life was washed away, I saw Him take hold of the Savior’s hand. They walked together through the garden, disappearing in the rain. Jesus Christ came to show the full extent of His love, not just for some, but for all who will cry out to Him in faith.

I woke up this morning with hope in my heart.

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 love

Today’s Reading: John 12:48-50(NIV)

48 [Jesus said,] “There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. 49 For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. 50 I know that His command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”

Good morning!

I’ve been thinking a lot of life and death this week. I lost my cousin Jeff yesterday. He had been ill and had suffered for many years. His physical body is at rest now. I grieve for his family, who bore the responsibility of caring for him throughout his illness and death. My aunt, who is 86 years old, cared for Jeff in her home. There is a unique and special bond between a mother and child. Mothers seem to have the uncanny ability to see all the potential and possibility, believing in a better day for their child’s life. My aunt never gave up hoping her son would one day be completely healed. Now, he is.

Jesus brought a message of hope straight from the Father’s heart to the world. He did not come to judge the world, but to save it. He bore the Father’s message of perfect love to humanity. It is His message of eternal life, and Jesus continues to offer everlasting hope to all who will hear and believe. Isn’t it amazing how much the Father loves us? He didn’t give up on us when we were suffering in our sin. God didn’t turn His back on the lost and lonely. The Father sent His very best to restore His people to health and wholeness. He longs for all of us to be restored in His love, and He is the only One who has the power to do it.

The love of the Father, revealed through Jesus the Son, is emulated through the helping hands of caring hearts. They choose to believe in the potential and possibility for every hurting human soul. You can see the love of Christ actively working through the ones who daily care for the needs of others. It is that experience of being intimately loved by God that teaches us how to reach out and love each other. May you find complete healing and wholeness in the perfect love of Jesus Christ 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.

Your purpose in life

Today’s Reading: John 12:47(NIV)

47 [Jesus said,] “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it.”

Good morning!

It is good thing to know your purpose in life. This week, I completed a nine-credit hour, twelve week quarter cluster at Lindenwood University. The World Religions cluster was one of the most interesting studies I’ve taken. We focused our thoughts on many different faith traditions, cultures, and the historical thread linking generations in faith. There was a great deal of reading to do each week and the classroom discussions were engaging. I found myself leaving this class with many more questions than answers. There is so much to learn in life and so little time in which to assimilate it.

I’ve watched from afar and admired my husband’s tenacity and determination to follow His call to ministry, from the age of seventeen years. I will soon be fifty years old, and I’m still trying to discover who I will be when I grow up. My heart was stirred as I listened to the instructor’s closing comments in Monday evening’s class. He talked about matters of faith and how one perceives call; how His life’s work has been divinely directed, even when he wasn’t completely certain of the next steps to take. He gave me hope in knowing that the final goal, while extraordinarily important, is not the pinnacle – it is the journey there that makes all the difference.

Jesus knew, without a doubt, His purpose for living in human flesh. He did not come to judge the world in its broken state, the mistakes of its past, or the future fumbling of the baton. He came for one reason - to save the world from total separation to the Father of light. Jesus gave Himself as a perfect and holy sacrifice for the sins of the world, not judging but loving us in perfect love. How hard is it for you to love the ones who hurt you? To care about the ones who want nothing good for your life? To be willing to allow another hardened human heart to drive nails into your flesh and leave you hanging on a splintery piece of wood to die?

At the end of my presentation in class on Monday, I posed a question to the class: In one sentence, tell me your purpose for living. Are you able to answer this question 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.

Guiding light

Today’s Reading: John 12:44-46(NIV)

44 The Jesus cried out, “When a man believes in me, he does not believe in me only, but in the One who sent me. 45 When he looks at me, he sees the one who sent me. 46 I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.”

Good morning!

Last night, one solitary flame of hope and hundreds of brightly shining luminary candles lit the way for the 2008 American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. I walked alongside my mother, a breast cancer survivor, and my daughter, a cervical cancer survivor, around the track at Fox High School in Arnold, Missouri. People lined the perimeter of the race track and applauded for the cancer survivors. We couldn’t help but remember the ones who died and now walk silently with us in our hearts and minds. I thought about Pastor Jim and how his faith walk made an impact on so many people in Missouri. Every luminary represents a human heart struggling with a disease that is no respecter of age. There were children walking the track, riding in wheelchairs, and some who were carried in the arms of their parents. It is no secret they are fighting for their lives. One family waited by the edge of the track with teddy bears, and as the children walked by, they were given a new furry friend to love. Tears of sadness and joy dripped from faces in the crowd. I did not know their names, but I recognized them by their love. This experience was a rare and holy moment, and a precious memory I will cherish for the rest of my days.

Can you imagine seeing holy hearts on fire as they heard the words of Jesus that day in Jerusalem? They must have burned like tiny luminary candles, when they realized they were seeing God Almighty in the flesh. Jesus is the light of the world, and when we see the light for what it is, we see the Father of light. It is His light that makes our pathway clear. It is His light that draws us together in love. We can make the journey together without fear, knowing the light of life is leading the way. As I walked around the high school track last night, I wondered if I was getting a tiny taste of the agape love I will one day experience as I walk with my Savior along the golden streets of heaven.

Cancer is one of the dirtiest words I know. I hate what this disease does to people’s lives. I long to see it cured once and for all, and I will continue to walk the path for a cure and I will work to raise much needed research dollars for the day when this insidious disease will be a thing of the past. Isn’t it good to know that we have a Savior who does not leave us alone in the dark? Jesus walks with us, instilling hope for healing, purpose for each new day, and His promise of new life in His holy presence forever. If you are facing cancer today, you do not have to do this alone. Ask Jesus Christ to be your guiding light.

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.