The lie

Today’s Reading: Acts 5:3-4 (NIV)

3 Then Peter said, “Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn’t it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn’t the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God.

Good morning!

We were playing tag in the back yard with my friends when I first saw it. Lying on the driveway next to the car of Mrs. Baker, my Brownie leader, was a tiny, square floral bag with a small handle. It wasn’t much larger than a coin purse. On the front of the bag were colorful appliquéd daisies. I took a peek inside and found a pretty rain bonnet, the kind my mother would wear out of the beauty salon after getting her hair done every Friday morning. I picked the bag up and slipped it into the pocket of my Brownie uniform. I immediately turned to see whether any of my friends had noticed what I had done. Everyone else was running, laughing and playing; there was obviously no one to tell.

After dinner that night, after slipping into my pajamas, I took the bag from my pocket and gave it to my mother. “Look what I found Mommy, just for you!” I handed her the pretty bag with the rain bonnet inside. Mommy seemed surprised, yet not as pleased as I thought she would be. Mother said, “Debbie, where did you get this?” “I found it on the ground today,” I proudly announced. After all, that wasn’t a lie. I did find it on the driveway. “Where was it?” Mother said, looking at me with her piercing blue eyes. Somehow, I knew if said that the rain bonnet was sitting next to our Brownie leader’s car, then she would presume it belonged to Mrs. Baker. Brownies were not supposed to lie, but in the moment, this Brownie did. “I found it on the playground at school,” I bit my upper lip as the words rolled off my tongue before I could stop them. It was such a beautiful bonnet. I wanted my Mother to have it so badly. After all, Mommy was the prettiest woman I knew, and I simply wanted to give her something beautiful to wear after she had her hair done on Friday.

I never saw Mommy wear that bonnet. In fact, she kept it in her purse until the next Brownie meeting. It was as if her Mommy radar knew exactly who the bonnet belonged to. When we arrived at Mrs. Baker's home, Mommy took my hand and went inside to ask the leader if she was missing a rain bonnet in a tiny floral bag. “Why yes indeed,” she exclaimed. “I’ve been looking for it all week.” Mother pulled it out of her purse and handed it to me. Crocodile tears began to form inside my eyes. I could feel my face flush a thousand shades of red. Trembling, I reluctantly handed the bag back to my Brownie leader. “I’m sorry, Mrs. Baker,” I said. “When I found the bag outside, I wasn’t sure who it belonged to, so I took it home and gave it to my Mommy.” She smiled and thanked me for returning something that I had no intention of ever giving back. I don’t think Mrs. Baker knew what I had done, but my mother certainly did. The disappointment and hurt I saw on her face was more than I could bear.

What does it feel like to break God's heart?

Ananias knew that he was deceiving the Apostles that day, when he withheld some of his sale proceeds, thereby stealing from the church's treasury. What he didn’t realize was how much it would grieve God’s Holy Spirit, and the damage it would cause to the entire body as a result. He couldn’t believe how Peter saw right through the lie. I imagine it was the realization of what he had done, that made Ananias’ heart skip a beat. When you choose to take something that does not belong to you, and you know that you know that you know you are wrong in doing it, can you feel your heart skipping a beat or maybe two or even three?

When we lie, we are fooling ourselves if we think the Father doesn’t see and know the deceitfulness we hold inside our hearts. It is something to think about this morning, while there is still breath in your body and your heart is beating. You and I have the opportunity to confess our sins and seek forgiveness for the lies we’ve told. Stop lying to yourself. You cannot fool God. Satan is the great deceiver. He came to steal and destroy your life, and if you do choose to turn away from the Lord, He will make your lies seem justifiable, and eventually, you will believe buy into the lie instead of God’s Truth. Today, you have one more opportunity to turn around, confess your faith in Jesus Christ, and ask Him help you see the difference between His Truth and the world’s lie. He will help you IF you call on Him, but the choice is entirely yours to make.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Full disclosure

Today’s Reading: Acts 5:1-2 (NIV)

1 Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2 With his wife’s full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles’ feet.

Good morning!

Have you ever kept a little secret that should have been brought to light? Have you ever shared a secret that caused so much grief and pain that it totally ruined another person’s life? Which side of the white picket fence will we choose to sit on? Where will truth end and all the lies begin?

It is human nature to try to convince ourselves that things are not as bad as they seem. If we spin the truth long enough and in just the right way, we may be able to self-justify why we make some of our biggest mistakes. But does it right a wrong? As I think about it, I’ve yet to meet the perfect family, with cookie-cutter children, who live fairytale lives with virtually no problems at all. There is only one I know who walked a perfect and sinless life here on earth; He is God made man. Fully human yet fully divine; the Lord of life, and his name is Jesus. He never withheld anything back from His heavenly Father. So why do we try so hard to hold back the things that have never belonged to us in the first place?

Sapphira loved her husband. She trusted him. She was fully aware when her husband sold that piece of property to donate to Christ’s cause. She knew its full value and that he intended to keep some of the proceeds from the sale. I imagine the conversation to justify this wrongful act sounded something like this: “Honey, no one will ever know that we did not give it all. We didn't know Jesus when we purchased that property. He did not see how hard we worked for years just to pay it off. With what little we keep for ourselves, we can use it to take that dream trip we’ve always wanted to make – a two week cruise around the Mediterranean! You know we deserve this. This money belongs to us! I am convinced the Apostles and our new faith community will never find out or even blame us for our decision. It can be our little secret.” Then Ananias planted a sweet kiss on Sapphira’s blushing cheek just to seal the deal. It kind of reminds me of how Judas kissed Jesus’ cheek just before he was taken away by the Roman guard.

So here’s the question I wrestle with today: do you think Sapphira should have kept her mouth shut about the money? Should she have risked her marriage to betray her husband’s dishonestly in publicly confessing the sin? We may think we can fool each other and may even deceive ourselves along the way. It is not possible to fool or deceive the Lord, no matter how hard we try. Jesus sees not only what we withhold in our bank accounts; He knows what we withhold from Him in our hearts. How much are you unwilling to give back to the Lord? What price will you and I ultimately pay for not giving full disclosure?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

The gift of encouragement

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:36-37 (NIV)

36 Joseph, a Levite from Cyprus, whom the apostles called Barnabas (which means Son of Encouragement), 37 sold a field he owned and brought the money and put it at the apostles’ feet.

Good morning!

Have you ever been around someone who is a constant encouragement and support to you? I’ve been blessed with many people in my life, who seem to know just the right thing to say at just the right time. When I’m especially discouraged, I turn to Barnabas, and seek hope for what may seem to be a hopeless situation.

I think this is why I really like Joseph from Cyprus in Scripture, most recognized by his nickname, Barnabas. His name means Son of Encouragement. He’s the kind of guy that makes you feel instantly better just knowing he’s around. Biographical information on Barnabas states he was Levite from Cyprus, but did not work in the temple. Barnabas had the courage and determination to introduce Paul of Tarsus to Simon Peter. He encouraged Mark to accompany Paul on one of the first missionary trips. Even in the fray of disagreement, Barnabas remained a constant encourager, seeking relationship and love between the Apostles and the early church. He was one amazing man!

Encouragers tend to be big givers by nature. They give whatever they have to help the cause. Barnabas knew that it would take financial resources to help spread Christ’s Gospel to the people who had not yet heard. He was one of the first believers to willingly sell his personal possessions and give it away to the Apostles to help spread the Word. Maybe you have the heart of an encourager, but do not have a field to sell. Is there something else you would willingly put out there on E-bay, and the proceeds used to spread Christ’s love around the world? Everybody has something they can give, even you.

Yesterday afternoon, my husband Jeff and I had a Barnabas stop by to visit with us after worship. This couple is such a source of encouragement, and has been an integral part of our lives for many years. Because Jeff is recovering from surgery, he was unable to lead worship yesterday, which for most pastors, is pure torture. It was such good news to hear about the encouraging message that was preached, knowing the Good News continues to be proclaimed, and that our congregation is pumped and primed to share Jesus Christ outside the walls of our church. After they left the parsonage, we thanked God for all the encouragers in our life, who help us through times of discouragement.

You can be a Barnabas today. You may be blessed with the financial resources to be able to give something away that can make a lasting difference for another. If you can give it, then give it with gusto! You may be able to share your time with someone who is hurting and struggling to see the light of day. If you are willing to offer a ministry of presence, then give your time away with joy! A simple smile or a handshake to a stranger on the street, may mean more than you realize to someone who has not been noticed or spoken to at all.

When Barnabas showed up, people recognized Jesus Christ living and working through His hands and heart. We can all be sons of encouragement to each other, as we find new ways to give our resources, our wealth, our blessings, and our lives away so that others may live. Get out there and be a blessing to someone else today, in the name of Jesus Christ, our Lord.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

A community where needs are met

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:34-35 (NIV)

34 There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales 35 and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.

Good morning!

Can you imagine what it might be like to live in a community where all needs are addressed and met by its people? This is why I believe being part of a local church congregation is so important. There is a community spirit that draws us into service; and together, we can accomplish much more than we can do on our own. I’ve had the privilege of helping assist with a Habitat for Humanity® project through the United Methodist Churches of the Gateway Regional District in Missouri. I know very little about carpentry, plumbing or electrical wiring, but I do know how to cook a meal and deliver food to volunteers who are building homes for families in our community. One December day, my husband I delivered food to a worksite where thirteen people were out in the freezing cold, working knee deep in mud and snow, to finish a house before its January deadline. A pot of chili and a peanut butter sandwich can mean a lot to a cold and tired volunteer. A thermos of coffee and a plate of homemade apple muffins disappeared in a matter of minutes, and then the workers returned to their posts. It is an amazing thing to see how hearts and hands in a labor of love can raise up a new home for a family who might otherwise be living on the streets in the dead of winter.

Many of our local congregations are small in numbers. We see the needs of our community and we wonder how to meet them. This is when we see the possibilities of uniting hearts and hands together in service with other local churches. This is how we can impact our communities for Christ! There is a job for everyone in the family of God. While many offer financial resources to help fund projects, there are others who are gifted in construction and building. Many can cook, sew, and teach. When I traveled to Mexico with my local congregation to build a concrete block home for a family living in a makeshift tin hut, I was not physical capable of lifting the heavy concrete blocks or mixing the mortar by myself. I contributed to the team by handing tools to workers laying bricks and I participated in a Vacation Bible School for the community children, whose parents had come to watch and help their neighbors raise a home. When we all work together, we can accomplish the task at hand and successfully meet the need.

At Faith United Methodist Church, we regularly ask ourselves this question: If our church were to suddenly close its doors, would our community even miss us? It is my sincere prayer that we will continue to find new ways to reach beyond the walls of our church, and share Christ’s love in the community. If you are looking for a faith family where you can experience the love of Jesus Christ, grow in grace, and share your gifts and talents with others, we would love to have you come and be our guests in worship this weekend. Please contact me and I will be happy to give you directions to our church. We worship on Sunday mornings at 8, 9 and 11am.

Come experience a brand new way of life as we share our gifts together through the ministries of the local church.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

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

The testimony of new life

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:33 (NIV)

33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all.

Good morning!

What is your life’s testimony? How do you live it out each day?

The world has been captivated this week by the outpouring of stories shared by family and friends who are remembering the amazing life of Eunice Kennedy Shriver. It was the impact of her own grief and heartbreak for her older sister Rosemary that prompted Eunice to make a difference for children suffering with developmental disabilities and their families. She launched the first Special Olympics in 1968 at Soldier’s Field in Chicago. That single event, which started with 1,000 athletes, has grown to over 3 million participating athletes in the last forty years. Eunice Kennedy Shriver saw intrinsic worth and value in every human heart. It was her faith in Jesus Christ that allowed her to reach out with His love and touch a hurting world. Her visionary leadership and unwavering hope ushered in a new way of life for families touched by disabilities all around the world. What a beautiful testimony and tribute to a woman of great faith.

A few weeks ago, a young Christian wife and mother was seriously injured in a biking accident. Her husband continues to publicly pray and praise God daily for His healing mercies even in the midst of a catastrophic, life-changing circumstance. There is no greater faith example than the people who choose to toss personal fear and anxiety aside and live out what they believe day by day. This is the life example and legacy of Peter and John and all the apostles, who continually testified to the resurrection of Jesus Christ with great power and grace, even in the midst of personal tribulation and adversity.

We live in an imperfect world. When we learn to fully rely upon the Lord Jesus Christ for our source of help and hope, we can find strength together and help in time of need. God can and will use you to make an everlasting difference in the life of another human heart. Are you willing to look beyond your circumstance, and see all the possibilities for His hope in the world? Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Do not be afraid to share what Jesus has done for you. Your testimony of faith may just be the catalyst to restore new life to another human heart.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Time, talent and treasure

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:32 (NIV)

32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had.

Good morning!

In an effort to cut costs in the purchase of office supplies, a group of administrative assistants pitched a proposal to its management team, which has literally saved its company thousands of dollars in the last year. Every department had been given an annual operating budget which included a specific dollar amount for essentials, such as paper, writing tools, printer supplies, etc. Each department tried to be respectful of another department’s resources, keeping their supplies marked and separated. Everyone needed supplies in order to do their job. Why not pool the resources and distribute and use what had been purchased company wide? On the surface, this seemed to be an impossibility, especially with so many different site facilities and teams. Is it possible to centralize office supplies and provide them to various personnel as needed? Departments began to gather their goods, organizing paper, notebooks, pens and other essentials on open shelves. Emails began floating around the company asking if someone might have a ream of canary colored paper, or a box of hanging file folders. Instead of coveting department supplies, groups began to share their accumulated wealth with others. When this idea became a reality, it made an indelible impression in my mind as I witnessed a mindset occur. People were willingly and happily sharing their resources. The sincere desire to help a coworker in need is what impressed me most of all.

A couple of weeks ago, our mission team organized a church wide garage sale for the benefit of our community. It was not intended to be a large fundraiser; rather, an attempt to pool our resources for the benefit others of our community. Faith families cleaned out their closets and basements, donating extra clothing, shoes, toys, games, furniture and appliances, and hauling their items to the church the week before the sale began. Coupons were distributed to families in the community who were receiving assistance at local food pantries and shelters. They were able to come to Faith church the evening before the sale and whatever their family needed at no charge. Within two hours, almost everything that had been donated was gone. It was humbling to see the great need. As we closed our doors that evening, many of us went home and looked for more things to donate for the Saturday sale. Who ever thought that willingly and joyfully giving something away of personal value could mean so much for the giver? I wondered if this is what it feels like to be part of the early Christian church that Luke describes so eloquently in the book of Acts.

What kinds of things do you have stashed away that someone else could use? Would you be willing to donate an hour each week to a college student who is far from home, and needs an adult to listen and care? Could you bake a double portion of your famous Sunday casserole, and share it with a neighbor, just because? How much time does it take to send a get well card, make a telephone call, or say a prayer for someone you do not know half way around the world? Are you willing to share your time, talent and treasure?

It is an interesting assumption, when we stop to think about what we have to give. None of us knows how much time we have left here on earth. Every day is a new opportunity to pool and share our gifts with others. When we begin to realize that the time we spend here is not really our own, sharing it becomes a lot of fun!

I double-dog dare you to ask yourself this question: What will I joyfully give away today? I encourage you, in the name of Jesus, to give from the abundance of your life, because your life and the time you spend here is not really yours – it is a precious gift from the Lord.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Holy boldness

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:30-31 (NIV)

30 Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus. 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.

Good morning!

Holy boldness cannot be taught in a college classroom. It is not a skill set one acquires on a debate team or while attending an employee training event. Holy boldness is a gift of the Spirit, and it comes through faith in Jesus Christ.

We often think of a bold person as someone who is outspoken in their convictions. One example may be a pastor who is offering his Sunday morning sermon in a loud, animated voice. Is this really what it means to be holy bold? I personally believe there are other manifestations that speak much louder than words.

The gift of holy boldness is evident in the heart of a penitent spouse, as they seek forgiveness and restoration for the wrongs they have committed against their family. We see proof of holy boldness at work, when a wife forgives her husband for infidelity and chooses to love him when he is least lovable. When a wayward child finds his father’s arms wide open, longing to welcome him home, we see the positive effect of holy boldness in the healing of a broken heart. The gift of holy boldness is absolutely evident when innocent victims choose forgiveness over revenge.

New believers in the Way were subjected to the most inhumane of crimes. Because they believe that Jesus Christ is Lord of all, many new converts were forced to watch their children suffer unspeakable atrocities before they were put to death. It was only through the means of holy boldness they were able to withstand this pain and suffering, confessing Christ while knowing their confession would cost them their lives.

Have you ever wondered whether you would have enough holy boldness within to help you stand firm in the wake of a devastating life event? Will you live in holy boldness even if your spouse leaves you, your child becomes ill, or your best friend dies? We can learn much from the early church, as they prayed the believers’ prayer together. They place their hope in Jesus completely as He gives them holy boldness to profess faith even in times of suffering and grief. If you are in need of receiving His gift today, join me now in the believers’ prayer of faith: Father, I pray that you will fill us with your holy boldness, that we will stand firm against the threats of this world. We have seen your hand perform great miracles, especially when you saved us from ourselves. In Jesus’ name, help us not only speak Your Word but live our lives with a holy boldness that can only come through knowing you. Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Pushing through the pain

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:28-29 (NIV)

28 They did what your power and will had decided beforehand should happen. 29 Now, Lord, consider their threats and enable your servants to speak your Word with great boldness.

Good morning!

Pain can be a disabling factor in our lives, when we allow it to distract us from the ultimate goal. I will always remember the face of my labor nurse, while I was in labor with my daughter Rachel. The reason we call it labor is because birthing babies is hard, hard work. It is truly a labor of love to give life to another human being. The pain can be excruciating, even with the help of modern day medicines. When I’m in constant pain, I have trouble focusing on much of anything else. It is as if that pain completely takes over my mind, disengaging me from the rest of the world. If we let it, our pain will totally consume us. My labor nurse was relentless in reminding me of the ultimate goal. She promised that if I would simply focus on her face and breathe through the contractions, I would soon see my newborn daughter. Whenever I’m hurting, I think about the face of my labor nurse and her words of eternal wisdom over my life.

It takes hard work and perseverance to plant and harvest a crop. The sweat and tears that come with turning hard soil, fertilizing and cultivating the ground, watering and tending to each new plant, can be very rewarding when the fruit produces on the vine. If we look to the end result with hope, we can endure the pain that is produced during the process.

I’ve been thinking about the pain and suffering of the new believers in the Way. Their families endured torture and death daily. They struggled to find the courage to share the Good News with a people who do not yet believe that Jesus Christ is Lord of all. The goal that kept them going was His hope assuring them that they would one day see Jesus face to face. They longed to fulfill Christ’s Great Commission – to share the Gospel with all the nations, knowing they would probably die by their admission of faith. Is it all that different for Christian believers today?

Believers are suffering for their faith all over the world today. Christians are being tortured and murdered for their profession of faith, especially in regions where Christianity is banned. Yet, faith has a way of revealing itself, amid the pain and torture believers endure. Is it so different for Christians living in a post-Christian culture? Do we not experience daily pain and suffering over the lack of knowledge and belief within our own communities? Is the Father calling us to step up and endure the pain of nonconformity, ridicule and rejection while sharing Christ’s salvation message with folks who do not believe they even need a Savior? I believe we have a lot more in common with the early church that one might think.

Father, we know that your plan and purpose will prevail against all time. There is no doubt that we will face the pain of rejection and ridicule from people who do not yet know Your Son. It is possible that our faith in Christ will place us in harms way. Father, in the name of Jesus, we ask that you enable your servants to speak Your Word with holy boldness. Block the spirit of fear that we hold in our hearts. Help us see you even when we feel the pain of rejection, intimidation, and judgment. We rely completely upon Your Word living in and through us to make a lasting difference in the lives of others. Help us focus on the goal, the spreading of Your Gospel to all the nations. For we know that in the end, we will run into Christ’s everlasting arms, where we will see you face to face and there will be no more tears, no more pain, and no regrets. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

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

The only cure for a sweet tooth

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:26-27 (NIV)

26 The kings of the earth take their stand and the rulers gather together against the Lord and against his Anointed One. 27 Indeed Herod and Pontius Pilate met together with the Gentiles and the people of Israel in this city to conspire against your holy servant Jesus, whom you anointed.”

Good morning!

Most folks do not enjoy having the mistakes they’ve made in private publicly proclaimed. The media uses humiliation and embarrassment to sensationalize its headline stories; people seem to thrive on a little dirty laundry. Let’s face it; we like to point the finger at each other, hoping to move the spotlight away from where we stand. Have you ever been publicly judged?

Herod and Pontius Pilate are taking the heat over Jesus’ conviction, crucifixion and death. There is no doubt that they, along with most members of the Sanhedrin and many of Jerusalem’s citizens, exercised their right to kill the Father’s anointed one. If you’ve been fence-sitting on where to place blame, Peter and John make a convincing sales pitch. The greatest “whodunit” is being solved right now, in the middle of town square. Are you relieved that the focus of this particular conversation is not about you?

My father loved eating ice cream. After dinner, mother would empty a gallon carton of vanilla ice cream into a large serving bowl. She would pour a 16-ounce can of syrup over the ice cream until all you could see was rich, gooey chocolate. We watched in utter amazement as Daddy devoured its contents in record time. The ice cream never had time to melt! We never really understood how Daddy didn’t suffer a brain freeze as he licked the bowl clean. When the evidence of his indiscretion had been swallowed, it was hard to prove the truth, until Daddy tipped the scales at his annual physical. You see, there are just some things we cannot hide no matter how fast we try to consume it.

This is what exercising “free will” is all about. Some of us are much more disciplined when it comes to making right choices. Others of us are simply swayed by our sweet tooth. We act upon impulse and we make decisions we might otherwise pass by, because it is sitting there, tempting us to take another bite. For Herod and Pontius Pilate, their political careers were hanging by a mere thread. They feared the overall popularity of this man Jesus, and wondered if they might lose complete control of the city if he were allowed to live. There was only one solution, they thought, and it seemed like a sweet deal at first. They acted upon an opportunity as John Q. Public’s opinion swayed back and forth like the pendulum of a grandfather clock. They are now forever remembered as their choices are weighed upon the scales of injustice; the ultimate unforgivable act of gluttony and greed. How will your life’s choices be recorded for all to remember and judge?

When it comes to exercising “free will,” the path of the spotlight suddenly expands to include more than just a group of people situated within a certain culture and geographic locale. If you’ve ever found yourself swayed by a sweet tooth and turned away from His Truth, you are as guilty as Pilate and Herod. Every time we choose our own way over His Way, we assume ultimate responsibility for nailing Jesus to the tree.

It is time to exercise your free will at the foot of the cross, and invite Jesus Christ to become the Lord and Savior of your life. Give Him your sweet tooth today. He can cure your temptation to sin, as you taste the miraculous sweetness of His amazing love.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

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

The believers' prayer

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:24-25 (NIV)

24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God. “Sovereign Lord,” they said, “you made the heaven and the earth and the sea, and everything in them. 25 You spoke by the Holy Spirit through the mouth of your servant, our father David: “’Why do the nations rage and the peoples plot in vain?”’

Good morning!

Even with all our unique cultural distinctions, we share a common bond when it comes to pain. No one likes to hurt, and most of us feel a deep sense of compassion for those who are suffering.

Lately, I have been spending time at local hospitals, visiting and praying for the sick and suffering. In a hospital, one does not have to look far to see the anguish of patients and their families. As medical providers work tirelessly to diagnose and properly treat the ill, families and friends huddle close in hallways and waiting rooms, crying together, praying for miracles, and resting. One evening after work, I went to the hospital to visit my friend. He had been badly injured in an accident and was placed on the trauma ward. This floor of the hospital is where the most critically injured patients are cared for while their bodies mend. Families generally do not leave; they wait for word of their loved ones in the intensive care waiting rooms, camping out with sleeping bags, pillows and suitcases. When the elevator door opened, I immediately noticed the packed waiting area. The lights had been dimmed and folks were sleeping everywhere. There is hope when human hearts offer a ministry of presence to those who are struggling to survive a season of suffering.

New converts to The Way were struggling with the harsh realities in which they found themselves. People whom they love and admire were being taken into chains, tortured mercilessly, and killed. The soldiers were meticulously carrying out orders, believing these people were fools to proclaim that Jesus of Nazareth was the Son of the living God. Family and friends remained huddled close together, praying for the physical release of their teachers and friends. There is amazing power when human hearts join hands in a believers’ prayer.

When Peter and John returned alive and unharmed, a prayer of praise immediately filled the room. There was an expression of thanksgiving to the One who miraculously protected their teachers, followed by a spiritual war cry for the injustices they were suffering. Why do the nations rage and the people plot in vain? Why do new believers have to suffer so? Will this suffering ever end?

Throughout the generations, we profess our hope when we say the believers’ prayer together. Won’t you take my hand and pray with me now: Father, in the name of Jesus, we lift up all who are suffering for your sake today. We do not understand why the war rages on; yet, we trust in the powerful name of Jesus to see us through seasons of suffering and pain. Father, we ask for a supernatural miracle, to release the prisoners held in captivity; to bring healing and wholeness to those who are sick, and comfort to family members who stand by, watching and waiting for their release. Together, we offer up our believers’ prayer today, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Letter writing campaign

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:23-24a (NIV)

23 On their release, Peter and John went back to their own people and reported all that the chief priests and elders had said to them. 24 When they heard this, they raised their voices together in prayer to God.

Good morning!

My mother set the bar at letter writing. Every afternoon when I would walk through the open front door after school, my mother would be sitting on the sofa with her note pad and pen, writing down all the good news she could think of to share with her parents, who lived seven hundred miles away. She was faithful to write and send letters each week, not only to her parents and siblings, but to her in-laws and their siblings. Handwritten notes are personal; they take time and effort to craft. I have always preferred to type my letters out as opposed to handwriting them, because my penmanship is not what it used to be. If I have trouble reading what I write, I can presume the intended recipient will not be able to make out my chicken scratch either! Now, with the advances of email, instant messaging, and social networking sites, the art of letter writing has definitely evolved. I can connect with family, friends, and Christians from around the world in a matter of seconds, simply by joining an online chat.

A few weeks ago, I was up very early writing and praying online. A pastor from India invited me to pray with him using the instant messaging tool. We began to pray for our congregations in tandem; I would type a couple of lines and press send; and within seconds, I would receive his prayerful response. We prayed like this together for almost fifteen minutes. The power of the Holy Spirit was so incredibly real that my fingers were struggling to keep up with all the words of praise filling my heart and mind. It was as if he were sitting right across from me, holding my hand, as we lifted our people up to the Lord in prayer. It is the blood of Jesus Christ that links hearts and hands together, so that we might reach across oceans and miles and share the Good News with people all over the world in real time.

Peter and John were ecstatic when they were released from custody. They returned to their people and shared the Good News! How awesome it must have been when Luke first penned these incredible words. When everyone heard, they raised their voices in tandem and prayed a prayer of thanksgiving to the Lord God Almighty. There is so much to be thankful for, especially in the struggles we face each day. We have a Savior who is with us always, no matter where we are or what is happening in our lives. If we are willing to trust Jesus completely, we know that no matter what happens today, He is large and in charge and we can stand firm on His Word. This is our virtual reality. We can encourage and support each other as we write and share our letters of faith with family, friends and faithful followers all around the world. This is the time to share the Good News! Won’t you join me in a letter writing campaign today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Quintessential

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:21-22 (NIV)

21 After further threats they let them go. They could not decide how to punish them, because all the people were praising God for what had happened. 22 For the man who was miraculously healed was over forty years old.

Good morning!

Last night, I was crawling into bed after a very busy weekend. I think every muscle and joint in upper torso was stiff and hurting. Jeff was listening to me moan about a nasty muscle cramp I experienced while doing something extraordinarily strenuous: steering my automobile along Interstate 70. After a few minutes of heavy-duty complaining, we looked at each other and suddenly broke into a fit of hysterical laughter. Now that we’ve reached the “Golden age,” it seems as if our physical bodies are falling apart! He keeps breaking bones and teeth, and I can hardly move. This is the price we pay for stumbling around in the dark, chomping on hard candy, and not exercising every day. The slogan, “Use it or lose it” has taken on a brand new meaning. Are you feeling your age today?

The physician Luke made specific note of the invalid’s age in this passage from Acts. How much more miraculous is it that God chose to heal a man who was over the age of forty years! People were living without the modern conveniences we have today. Folks had to walk wherever they needed to go, often barefooted, with minimal protection from sharp pebbles and hardened soil. Women hauled heavy jars of water on their shoulders to and from the wells each day. Men relied upon sheer physical strength to provide the “catch of the day.” There was no fast food in Jerusalem; no microwavable one-minute meals. The lame man had spent his entire life sitting in the dirt, relying upon the kindnesses of others just to survive. Begging for food was his virtual reality. It seemed that his body aged twice as fast as he sat there all alone, crumpled up beside the temple gate. Could God’s miraculous healing in the invalid’s body mean that He has a job for all of us to do, even if we’re past the age of prime time according to our culture? Is it possible that God sees intrinsic worth in folks over the age of forty years? Can we be of real service to Jesus Christ and make a difference for His kingdom, even if we have old bones?

God sees intrinsic value in the quintessential nature of His creation. When Christ saves us, we become a perfect example of God’s highest quality and class, no matter what our age. He sees great value in the broken and frail bones of the crippled, especially those who are over the age of forty years. You need to know that are very valuable to Jesus, no matter what your age or physical limitation may be. With one Word, the Father miraculously transforms us into the quintessential perfection that only comes in knowing Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and Lord. If you are in need of a healing makeover, cry out to Jesus. He is perfection personified, and can restore quintessential wholeness to every human heart, no matter what your age may be. So being over forty isn’t as lame as we might think! Don’t make it your life’s excuse. Take a closer look, and know that Jesus has a plan and purpose for you, even if you are over the age of forty!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

The greatest name of all

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:18-20 (NIV)

18 Then [the Sanhedrin] called [Peter and John] in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. 19 But Peter and John replied, “Judge for yourselves whether it is right in God’s sight to obey you rather than God. 20 For we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.”

Good morning!

While attending a Faith Sharing© class at my church just a few short weeks ago, we talked about how we just can’t help ourselves when it comes to telling others about the love of Jesus Christ. Do you remember what it was like when you first invited Jesus into your heart?

I do not remember a time when Jesus was not there for me. I have always loved to sing, and when I was a little girl, my favorite part of the week was the Sunday school sing along at church. All of the children would gather in the fellowship hall and sit near the feet of our pianist. If I got close enough to the piano, I could feel the notes vibrate as our musician played the beautiful accompaniment. I loved watching her feet, as she pumped the piano pedals. I learned many songs about Jesus, as I sat at her feet and sang. One day in heaven, I intend to thank that wonderful musician for leading me to Christ. I may not recognize her face, but I would know her feet anywhere! They are forever beautiful to me. After church, I would run outside to our swing set and sail through the air on my glider, singing every Sunday school song I had learned that morning. I know my neighbors could hear me singing through their open windows, as the words of the songs floated through the breeze. I was sharing the love of Christ as I sang my joyful songs and I didn’t even realize it! I just couldn’t help myself.

I grew up in a culture when families went to church faithfully. Not only did we know our where our neighbors worshipped, but we knew the days and times of their worship services! There were several families on our block who attended the Catholic parish just down the road from our house. Our next door neighbor attended a Disciples of Christ church just a few blocks from our United Methodist church. There were many Sunday mornings when we would follow each other down the road as we traveled to our respective sanctuaries. On Sunday afternoon, my sister and I would go outside to play and we would sing Sunday school songs to our friends, retelling the stories of Jesus that we had shared that morning in circle. They would tell us about the art work they made during craft time during class. We loved re-enacting the preacher’s sermon with our own personal spin, of course! We would try to imitate our pastors’ voice inflection, as we recited the Scripture verses that he read out loud. We asked each other questions and tried to understand the deeper meaning of what we had learned. There is just something very special about being able to share our faith with our neighbors and friends.

How well do you know the neighbors in your subdivision today? Do you know something of their beliefs? Do they worship anywhere? Have you invited them to come and worship Jesus Christ with you?

Peter and John knew they could not obey the Sanhedrin’s order. They couldn’t wait to tell the world about their risen Savior, who is alive and working in the hearts of all who call on His name! In Jesus’ name, people were finding real joy, for the very first time in their lives. They knew what it meant to be truly loved and forgiven for all the wrongs they had committed against the Father and each other. Their bodies were becoming whole and healthy; their souls strong and encouraged in the faith. Who could keep the love of Jesus and His salvation story a secret? Who would want to? There is life-changing power in the name of Jesus. His name is the greatest name of all.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

The truth is in His name

Today’s Reading: Acts 4:17 (NIV)

17 But to stop this thing from spreading any further among the people, we must warn these men to speak no longer to anyone in this name.

Good morning!

We used to play the telephone game at Vacation Bible School. Do you remember playing it? The children would all sit in a circle. The leader would start by whispering a short phrase into the ear of the child on their right. That child would then whisper the phrase to the next person, and continuing on until everyone had a chance to hear and convey the secret message. The leader would then announce the message as she originally said it, and the last child who received the message would speak the words she heard whispered in her ear. Do you think the messages matched? This game was used to teach a point about how we listen, filter and convey information to others. Have you ever tried to share a little truth but just didn’t seem to get it right?

This happens quite often on the worldwide web. I will receive a chain email, conveying what the sender believes to be a piece of important public information. It may pertain to some health issue or an important safety measure. Unfortunately, the message may be from a dishonest person trying to make a fast buck with a phishing scam. Not long after that first message is received, I often see a retraction with a personal apology from its sender, stating that the information forwarded was inaccurate. Has this ever happened to you?

The name of Jesus had become a household word among the Jews in Jerusalem. If you lived the city, you knew about the man who had spent the last three years of his life traveling from village to village, healing the sick, casting out demons, and raising the dead to life. The Romans tried to stop all the Jesus gossip by killing him. They thought if they just eliminated the source, eventually all the gossip would cease and folks would lose interest in His name. The Sanhedrin didn’t know what to make of the new “Jesus” development. All of sudden, people like Peter and John were speaking the name of Jesus and crippled men were up walking around! There is wonder-working power in the name of Jesus! The Sanhedrin presumed the only way they could stop this new Jesus phenomenon was to forbid people from speaking His name out loud.

When we say Jesus’ name, we speak the Truth. He is the way, the truth and the life, and no one comes to the Father except through Jesus. We somehow think our culture has evolved and changed from past generations. We look at these words written over two thousand years ago and wonder how they could possibly apply to our lives today. Take a closer look! Diversity teaches there are many ways to find God. If we speak Christ’s name, we are no longer respecting others’ belief systems, and we wouldn’t want to offend our neighbors. We are admonished not to speak the name of Jesus in our public schools or even in the workplace. And yet, His name is the only name that bears truth. People are saved and healed every day in Jesus’ name! We must learn not to hesitate to speak His name out loud, because Jesus Christ is the Lord of all.

What will you choose to do with the name of Jesus today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.