Grandmother's Ring

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:40-41 NIV

40 [Paul said,] “Take care that what the prophets have said does not happen to you: 41 ‘Look, you scoffers, wonder and perish, for I am going to do something in your days that you would never believe, even if someone told you.’”

Good evening!

I gently pulled the rings off my mother’s swollen fingers. She had broken her wrist in a fall, and, as we waited for the first set of x-rays, I began to worry her precious rings might not come off. She had lost a considerable amount of weight over the last few months. I had grown accustomed to seeing the rings flip around in circles around Mom's shrinking fingers. This was not the scenario tonight. Granddaughter Rachel applied some silky smooth hand lotion to Gigi's rings, and with a few gentle tugs, the jewelry slipped off her fingers and into my hand.

I knew the story behind her wedding set. Mom had tossed my father’s engagement ring into the trash can, thinking he had mailed an empty box to her for some strange reason. It was only after she received the telegram which followed a day later that she and her five girlfriends spent hours poking holes in a trash dumpster searching for that precious box. The ring was finally found and my father never knew Mom had almost thrown it away. Was it pure luck that she found the ring? Not hardly. Nothing has ever happened in my mother’s life by happenstance.

I did not know the history behind my mother’s dinner ring. She told me it belonged to my grandmother. I did not recall Miss Mary ever wearing any kind of jewelry. Sometime after my grandfather had passed away, she treated herself to a designer ruby ring. Mom said it was the only extravagant purchase my grandmother ever made. As Grandmother spent her final days in a hospital bed, she passed the ruby ring to my Mother and asked her to wear it always in remembrance of her. I carefully examined the ruby ring, now in the palm of my hand. Caked in lotion, this piece was in obvious need of cleaning. Mom let me take the ring home for safekeeping, since she wouldn’t be able to wear it for awhile. It had not been off her finger for over thirty years, and it broke my heart to have to remove it after all this time.

I could not believe my eyes, when I saw just how beautiful the ring was, once polished. Its intricate design is truly exceptional. I wondered whether my grandmother had the ring custom made just for her. I took a tiny jeweler’s brush and began polishing each of the grooves. To my amazement, the gold inlay was tiny spokes, encapsulating intricate open pockets – I couldn’t even see this until the ring had been thoroughly examined. The ruby is a mere chip, encrusted with tiny shining diamonds; the ruby mounting is slightly raised to accentuate its brilliant color. What a perfect compliment to a timeless heirloom! I put the ring on my finger and realized that the ring which fit my Grandmother and Mother also fit me! I felt an immediate and special connection to these precious women, while admiring my Grandmother’s ruby ring.

It is not always easy to see and understand the Father’s master plan. If we are not careful, we may miss out on His precious Truth. What appears on the surface, caked in intellectual doubt and misconception, is the Father’s bright and shining Morning Star. We need Christ’s help to look beyond the physical and see His Cornerstone shining within. Paul warned his listeners not to take lightly something they may never believe, even as they had been forewarned by the prophets of old. Will we die wandering in our own misguided direction, while Jesus Christ is standing right there in front of us?

The Word of God cuts through thick crusty layers of sin and reveals Himself perfectly. Do not let your own human eyes stand in the way of seeing the living Christ. Will you throw your faith away without digging deeper? Jesus is the Cornerstone; our bright and shining Morning Star. When it comes to seeking the Lord, absolutely nothing occurs by happenstance.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Acting like a two year old

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:39 NIV

39 [Paul said,] “Through Him, everyone who believes is justified from everything you could not be justified from by from the law of Moses.”

Good morning!

My mother was laughing hysterically from across the dinner table last week. I glanced up, and found she was totally engaged with her two year old great grandson Andrew. He, of course, was sitting next to me, and I was trying to keep him still and in his seat while waiting patiently for his macaroni and cheese to cool. Our Andrew is a very busy boy. It is fascinating to watch his changing persona as the day wears on. In the morning, after his older siblings go to school, Andrew is rather subdued. He plays with his Matchbox® cars and loves to look at books. He will sit for fifteen minutes at a time, totally engaged while Nanny Deb reads to him out loud. Andrew is often quite sleepy and ready for a nap right after lunch. When he awakes, sweet Andrew comes into his own. He is full of combustible energy, and cannot wait to launch late afternoon full-throttle attacks on big brother, sister, and the family cat, Patches. He is relentless in his quest to make everyone around him miserable. You wonder where that sweet little boy disappeared to in his zeal to conquer and divide! He is relentless in his pursuit and often finds himself in time out long before the dinner bell rings. Amazingly, when supper time comes, Andrew folds his little hands and prays like an angel. If only his prayers would last a couple of hours! It has been said that children learn by example. How did Andrew “learn” to act like a two year old?

Observing two year old behavior can help us better understand why we fail so miserably with God’s law, given through His servant, Moses. The law was never intended as a stumbling block; rather, it was a road map for living. God gave the law on tablets of stone. The newly carved tablets were broken almost instantaneously, as God’s people willfully disobeyed. Like a two year old on a tear, we find ourselves beginning each day with good intentions, only to build up self-propelled steam that takes on a life of its own as the day presses on. We lash out irrationally at the people we love most. We vigorously choose our way over another. We come to the dinner table acting like two year olds, in need of grace, mercy and forgiveness. Often, we go to bed with tears stinging our eyes, regretting something we said or did in anger that cut another heart to the quick. Our human nature gets in the way of a seemingly good start.

We failed to keep God’s law. Constantly placing ourselves first in line, we lost sight of the Father’s plan for daily living. There was no justification for our failures; no reprieve for the sins we committed against God and each other. But when Jesus Christ came, the wages of sin and death were forever broken by grace. Jesus took upon Himself our human sin nature; our imperfections, failures, and willful disobedience – He willingly became the sacrificial scapegoat for our sin. God loves us so much that He sent His Only Son, and whoever chooses to believe in Him will not die; He will receive the gift of everlasting life! What a present we have to share! Without Christ, it was impossible to fully follow the law. We are not good enough, even on our best days, to right the wrongs we’ve committed in thought, word and deed. Through Christ alone, we have His divine help to set our path toward selfless living. We no longer need to act like two year olds; we are maturing in faith and we have been given the gift of the Holy Spirit to guide us in the way that leads to life everlasting.

Having a rough day today? Take a moment to stop and thank the Father for His Son, Jesus Christ. Ask Him to create in you a clean heart, a fresh start, and a clear sense of direction. What a great gift! Will you ask Jesus to be Lord of your life today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Blood pressure rising

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:38 NIV

38 [Paul said,] “Therefore, my brothers, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you.”

Good morning!

Paul has presented the Gospel in a clear and succinct manner. He knew the men who were listening to his message were formulating a decision in their minds that would affect the rest of their lives. It is difficult to speak with great conviction, knowing the end result is not up to you. I imagine Paul was silently praying, “Lord, send your Holy Spirit to touch them, to help them believe!” Before Christ ascended into heaven, He instructed His followers to go and make disciples of all nations. Paul, who once persecuted new Christian converts, was instantly changed the moment Jesus Christ stepped into his path. He knew firsthand the power of the Holy Spirit and what could happen in an instant. He scanned the room and looked into the eyes of all who were glued to his every word. Paul wondered if the Word of Truth had pierced their hearts the way it did for him that day on the road to Damascus.

Imagine that you are sitting in the juror’s box today, while Paul, servant of the Lord Jesus Christ, is finishing his final summation as defense counsel for the Gospel of Jesus Christ. You were not really thrilled when you received your service of summons in this case, because you knew it would impact your daily life. Christ’s case had become a hot topic around town and your friends and family were eagerly watching to see how you would vote. The decision made today would obviously impact the future of your family, your current job, your comfortable lifestyle, and your future security. You could lose your life over the decision rendered in today’s courtroom. Has his testimony been compelling? Will you find in favor of the defendant?

The judge instructs the jury as they prepare to deliberate privately. A set of jury instructions is given to help guide the jury in reaching a fair verdict. As you read these words aloud, you can feel the pulse of your heartbeat quicken, “The evidence which you are to consider in this case consists of the testimony of the witnesses, the exhibits, and any facts admitted or agreed to by counsel.” Your blood pressure rises as you begin to evaluate the evidence presented in court. The veins are now obviously pulsing in the carotid arteries; you are acutely aware of migraine pain forming at the base of your neck.

You close your eyes and rub your temples, to shade yourself from the bright sunlight streaming through the window near your seat. In your mind’s eye, you see Jesus Christ hanging on the cross with blood pulsing out of his body, pouring out forgiveness for all who will receive Him. You cannot escape His Truth; Jesus died for the forgiveness of your sin. Now you see Jesus reaching out to you in love. How can this be? Unimaginable love for a sin sick humanity, the Father cared enough to send His very best – Jesus Christ, the unblemished Lamb of God. He willingly gave His life for you and me. Will you believe and receive His forgiveness today? Are you willing to claim Christ’s Truth in a court of law?

It is now time to cast your vote. Written ballots are passed around the table. You have received your card and you hold it in the palm of your hand. The evidence has been presented and is before you now. Your blood pressure is rising, as Christ’s blood is washing you clean. What is your testimony before the Lord? Have you reached a decision today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

The changing seasons

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:36-37 NIV

36 [Paul said,] “For when David had served God’s purpose in his own generation, he fell asleep; he was buried with his fathers and his body decayed. 37 But the one whom God raised from the dead did not see decay.”

Good morning!

His philosophy on death flooded my mind that night, as I made the cold midnight drive into the city. I remembered standing next to my father, watching him dig a small grave for our pet hamster. A man of few words, Daddy looked me in the eye and said, “Death is the natural end to a beautiful beginning. We can be thankful for our pets, but try to understand that death is simply part of life.” It certainly wasn’t the most eloquent funeral eulogy I’ve ever heard. Daddy seemed satisfied with this concept. The whole thing seemed much more complicated to me. After all, I had just lost the first pet I had ever learned to love. This hamster was my very best friend. He was soft and furry, and loved me unconditionally. Who would I tell all my secrets to now?

Daddy enjoyed the changing of seasons. He loved being outdoors and was never bothered by extreme heat or cold. A born hunter and avid fisherman, Daddy would roll out of bed at 3am, put on a pair of waders, and stand in the icy cold river waiting for that loud 5am start siren to sound. He wanted to see if he could catch his limit in thirty minutes or less. Quite often, Daddy would be back at the camper before dawn with supper on a string. He blended into nature like the deer that disappears into a wooded thicket just beyond the open field. Concepts of life and death and the changing of seasons seemed absolute in Daddy’s human heart. I felt there had to be more to understanding life and death than mere thoughts of nature simply running its course.

I know Daddy would have made a lousy patient. He would have hated being attached to all the life saving equipment, and for what? Death was a natural part of life. I tried to justify his sudden and unexpected death in my mind while driving home in the cold. One minute, he was here, and the next, gone. Mother kept repeating the words over and over again, “I didn’t get to say goodbye.” She sounded so alone; I could find no words to comfort her broken heart. Life begins and ends when we least expect it. My mother had lost her very best friend. Who would she tell all her secrets to now?

When David served out God’s plan and purpose in the generation to which he was born, he fell asleep in the loving arms of His Father. Today I find this Scripture extraordinarily comforting, knowing that every human heart is born with God’s greater plan and purpose. We live, serving the Lord in this generation, and when the appointed time comes, we fall asleep in the arms of our Heavenly Father. David dreamed of the day when the promised seed, the Holy One, would come and defeat the sting of death forever. I knew that night, without a doubt, my Father’s spirit was no longer bound within failing earthly flesh; the only One who conquered death forever had come to take my Daddy home. Sin, sickness and imperfections are forever conquered in the arms of Christ. There is new hope for the hopeless; our earthly goodbyes are no longer necessary.

All honor and praise be given to the Lord Jesus Christ, who completes the human circle of life! He is the reason we live and move and have our being. Death’s grip is broken, now and forever. You were born with a purpose, specifically for this time, and the Father longs to see you live each day in the light of His love. Choose life! Choose Christ! He calls you to give Him your all, and His promises are sure. He will hold your heart through the changing seasons.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Proof of purchase

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:35 NIV

35 [Paul said,] “So it is stated elsewhere: ‘You will not let your Holy One see decay.’”

Good morning!

Nothing remains brand new for long. When we purchase a new automobile, the moment we drive it off the lot (even if the sticker is still attached to the passenger seat window) its face value depreciates exponentially. My father’s brother worked for one of the best car dealers in town. Daddy bought every car he owned from my Uncle, because Daddy knew he could trust Tom to offer the best value for the buck. Daddy never financed any of his automobiles – he paid cash for every car he ever owned. Have you learned how to live debt-free?

A new pair of shoes cannot be returned to the store if they have been worn once outside. Shoes are no longer considered new once you walk in them. You may be able to return clothing, as long as the tags have not yet been removed from the garment, and you must have a receipt. Even the finest of clothiers will not honor a return without proof of purchase.

The Father watched His Only Son become the scapegoat for humanity’s sin. His body was torn to shreds by a Roman whip and punctured clean through with stakes of iron. Jagged splinters from the tree pierced His raw flesh, reminding Christ of all the times we’ve willfully disobeyed our Father’s commands. Jesus became our proof of purchase for sin; He knew full well what the exact cost would be. How much proof do you actually need to know that your debt was fully paid on the cross of Calvary? Do we really have any conceptual understanding of how much it cost the Savior to purchase our way home?

Unlike the depreciation we see in the things of this world, there is intrinsic value added to a life saved by grace. When one repentant sinner kneels at the foot of the cross, what was once an indebted, decaying form, now receives His newness of life. Our sticker price exponentially increases in value! In fact, God calls His creation “priceless” because He is willing to redeem us with His very own blood. The Father keeps His Word. He did not allow His Holy One to decay; nor will He allow our lives to fall prey to death and destruction, IF we are willing to confess our sins, repent and turn, placing complete faith in the Only One who can truly save us. Ask the Lord Jesus Christ to change your sticker price right now. He will do it with open arms when you choose to receive Him as your personal Lord and Savior. Unmerited favor, so undeserved, is offered to all who will ask and receive.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Hearing His Voice

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:34 NIV

34 [Paul said,] “The fact that God raised Him from the dead, never to decay, is stated in these words: ‘I will give you the holy and sure blessings promised to David.’”

Psalm 16:9-10 NIV

[David said,] “9 Therefore my heart is glad and my tongue rejoices; my body also will rest secure, 10 because you will not abandon me to the grave, nor will you let your Holy One see decay.”

Good morning!

This was not the diagnosis I wanted to hear. The audiologist emerged from the soundproof booth with a look on her face that I have grown accustomed to. “The stroke has severely limited your mother’s ability to understand words,” she said. “I am going to try to tweak her hearing aids to help her as much as I can.” I knew what she meant. The best medical technology available cannot restore dead brain cells, no matter how much we want it for our loved ones. Nerve stimulators, pacemakers and hearing aids are all amazing medical technology. They give hope and help to the patient, but cannot in and of itself fix the problem. Our earthly bodies will not last forever. Spare parts wear out with time. Our ability to live life without limitation becomes harder as time passes.

Mom’s cognitive thinking was compromised the day she fell and broke her pelvic bone. It is uncanny to see how one adverse life event can instantly change our course of direction. When our physical bodies fail, it does not quench the life-giving spirit soaring within. Just like King David, we find real joy in knowing we are not alone: The Lord is our keeper, deliverer, comforter, and friend. He will never let us go, even as our bodies give way to earthly decay.

I’ve watched Mom struggle through the years to hear. It was frustrating at first, because I found myself repeating words over and over again. We would be driving together in the car, but I could not adequately communicate with Mom. She needed to see my lips move to fully understand what I was saying, and I couldn’t turn toward her enough to help. Raising my voice made no difference at all; it was just loud and irritating noise to her. Eventually, Mom grew to accept the silence that surrounded her. I thought it was a tragedy, until she told me how God speaks to her in the quiet. What a precious gift we have in Christ, knowing He is right there with us; we can hear Him speak, even as our physical bodies fail. Isn’t it amazing that even as the sounds of earth fade away, we hear the voice of the Lord clearly speaking to our hearts! Oh, to hear Jesus over the incessant chatter of life! What a gift!

When Jesus conquered sin and death through His miraculous resurrection, new hope was borne! We now see beyond our earthly decay, we hear His Word and know it to be true: Jesus will perfect our imperfections; we will receive new life washed in His blood; our souls restored to full health and wholeness. Our joy will be made complete as our understanding is set on His firm foundation alone. Christ’s peace will be our peace; the only thing we need rely on throughout this earthly journey and into all His eternal promise.

Mom’s faith in Christ alone gives me great joy, for I know she hears Him perfectly. Believe and receive the Lord Jesus Christ. He lives so that we may live in His fullness, even in our earthly imperfections. Won’t you trust Him completely for your new life today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

The Gift of Adoption

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:32-33 NIV

32 [Paul said,] “We tell you the good news: What God promised our fathers 33 He has fulfilled for us, their children, by raising up Jesus. As it is written in the second Psalm: ‘You are my Son: today I have become your Father.’”

Good morning!

The greatest gift of all is the gift of adoption. When I was a little girl, my mother used to sit me on her lap and tell me just how special I was. She said, “Most mommies and daddies go to the hospital and have their babies. They do not get to pick and choose. But we got to go to the hospital and pick you out of the crowd!” And this was very true – my folks got a call from a social worker indicating that I had been born prematurely and would remain in the hospital for a period of time. Would they consider adopting me when I was well enough to leave the hospital? Not only did they agree, they got to go to the hospital and see me before I was released to the children’s home. Isn’t it amazing how the love of family can supersede our genetics?

I did not have my parent’s bloodline, but I certainly picked up many of their mannerisms through the years. Our son Benjamin reminds me a great deal of my father, whose name was Benjamin; yet, there is no genetic link whatsoever. Ben actually looks like my dad, walks like him, and sometimes he even acts like him. Our daughter Rachel married a man that resembles my dad in many ways. His hardworking nature and devotion to home is an uncanny reflection of my father’s life. My father kept a meticulous lawn, and my son-in-law is very particular about how his yard is kept throughout all seasons. Our son-in-law looks a lot like my husband, Jeff. In photographs, many of our friends think Dave is our son. We do have a son named David and he resembles Jeff’s dad, Clayton. Our son-in-law Dave looks like Jeff. Now isn’t that amazing!

My sister actually bears a great deal of physical resemblance to both of our parents, yet she was adopted too. Neither she nor I share the same bloodline, but we do share great love. We are about as different as daylight and dark. This was something that I thought might separate us, but I have learned through the years that we compliment each other far more than I would have ever imagined possible. You see, adoption makes us family, in spite of our unique differences.

When I was adopted into the family of God, I did not deserve such a great gift. I was a sinner in need of saving. God was my Father, just waiting to win my heart and take me in. Jesus, His Son, was the only One who could make us blood kin. I know, without a doubt, that I bore some resemblance to my heavenly Father, who made me, loves me, and welcomes me home through His Son, Jesus Christ. He is the Great I Am, and because He is, I live! The life I’ve been given continues to be such a blessing – and the people who are in my adopted family continues to grow exponentially every day. I have brothers and sisters all over the world who have been adopted into the family of God through the saving blood of Jesus Christ. If you have received Jesus as Lord and Savior, that makes us family. Isn’t that good news on a day like today?

Family is a gift from God. Regardless of whether you grew up in a happy home or a place filled with anxiety and turmoil, the life we share together can be healed with His love. We are amazed at just how precious the healing love of God can be when we see it cover our family, both biological and adopted. So undeserved and unworthy, riddled with mistakes and regrets, the love of Christ and His shed blood covers and unifies us all, even in the midst of diversity.

The best gift you will ever receive is adoption into the family of God. Won’t you ask Jesus Christ to become Lord of your life today? He can heal your family, mend your fences, and give you a whole new community of faith-filled believers to complete the person He has created you to be!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

High Heeled Days

Today’s Reading: I Corinthians 16:13 NIV

13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

Good morning!

I fell in love with high heeled shoes the moment I was given my very first Barbie® doll. Her feet were perfectly suited to all those colorful slip-ons. My doll had a built in high arch that made her sandals look so appealing. I wanted to wear shoes that would make my feet look just like hers. I had no earthly idea just how hard it would be to walk in slip on shoes with high heels. This was one life lesson God knew I would have to learn the hard way.

When I took my first job, I noticed my co-workers choice of footwear. A conservative pump with a two inch heel seemed to be the shoe of choice for the women working in the office. At that time, one could accessorize a tasteful navy pump with a clip on white bow and a shiny blue and white leather handbag. I set aside a portion of my paycheck each month just to go shoe shopping. Today, I am reminded of those shopping excursions every time I set foot into my favorite shoe store. Styles have certainly changed through the years; but the classic pump with a two inch heel has found its rightful place on the footwear hall of fame shelf in the back of my bedroom closet.

“You are ruining your feet.” I chose not to listen to the repeated warnings of my physician. He wanted me to wear a more protective, conservative shoe, with better arch and heel supports. I was far too busy trying to look good than wanting to heed his word. I proudly wore my pumps everywhere – to work during the day and to church at night; to my son’s soccer games – I waded across the mud-caked fields and left a trail of heel marks on the path. My husband knew if I had arrived before him – all he had to do was follow the heel marks. I learned to make my way along the city sidewalks with heels and toes clicking as I took each glorious step. I loved the look, the sound, and the feel of my high heeled days, for a season. I slowly began to experience foot pain just the way my physician said I would. How did he know? I tried to ignore the unbearable pain at first. But as my arches flattened, I began to develop painful heel spurs caused from a common foot problem known as Plantar Fasciitis. My high heeled shoes were not nearly as appealing as they were before. I could no longer stand in them. What will it take for you and me to truly listen and obey the Word of our Great Physician?

Sometimes the ways of the world seem attractive to little girls playing with dolls. We dream of the day when we will accessorize our own wardrobes with doll clothes and shoes. We begin to think that if we could just dress up in a certain size, and sport a particular shoe, that we would perfectly fit into what our culture deems appropriate. Who are we trying to please in our high heeled days? You know, life’s illusions will not last forever. We will reap the consequences for every poor choice, and that includes the type of shoe we choose to wear. What kinds of spiritual damage have your feet suffered when you chose to walk the culturally acceptable path of life – the road that leads to utter destruction?

It is imperative that we guard our hearts and stand firm in the faith. We cannot do this standing on stilts; for if we try, we are headed for the fall. What may seem normal to our world is certainly not the way of the Master. We lose sight of the narrow path as we run headlong down the sidewalk of life, leaving a tiny trail of heel marks behind in the dirt. Eventually, we come to a place where we can no longer stand on our own two feet. We’ve ruined ourselves, totally distracted by the world’s way. We need to receive new pair of shoes; the kind that protects and saves us. We need to take a walk on a brand new path.

If you have worn out all those high heeled shoes, you are so not alone! The Lord Jesus Christ knew the life path you would choose to take. That’s why he died to save you. And Jesus stayed right there with you, every step of the way. Even when you didn’t see the imprint of His nail-scarred feet, He never left your side. When those pretty shoes have caused blisters on our feet and we find ourselves in the place where we can no longer stand, Jesus is there to pick you up. He washes our feet in His blood and resets our path to the way the leads to life eternal. Jesus Christ is the healer of broken bones, broken hearts, and broken lives.

Take a step of faith today – let go of your high heeled days! Jesus will heal your heart, once and for all, and He will give you a new path to walk on right now. All you have to do is turn around and say, “Help me, Lord!”

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Being seen

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:30-31 NIV

30 [Paul said,] “But God raised Him from the dead, 31 and for many days He was seen by those who had traveled with Him from Galilee to Jerusalem. They are now His witnesses to our people.”

Good morning!

Did you happen to catch a part of last night’s Academy Awards on television? Hollywood’s elite were all there dressed to the nines, caught up in a frenzy photo shoot while taking their time-honored walk upon the red carpet. The Academy nominated some very interesting movies for this year’s Oscars. Which film most impressed you?

Being seen is an important facet of our culture. We want our co-workers, friends and family to see us at our very best, especially when it comes to holiday parties, reunions and awards ceremonies. We clean up, dress up, and make ourselves up so that we will leave a lasting impression with the ones who see us. There is absolutely nothing wrong with making the effort to look our best. We often allow our own vane self image to corrode the broken and bleeding heart we tuck away, sight unseen, from the inquisitive eyes of the world. Are we really real with each other? Is it possible to be seen for who we truly are and still be loved?

Jesus kept His Word. He said He is the Messiah, and fulfilled every prophetic Scripture written. His death and resurrection were living proof that He is the Son of God, our everlasting Savior, Redeemer and friend. His precious blood is the only covering for sin. He loves us not for how we look, but for whose we are. It is critical that He be seen, especially by the ones who had followed His ministry from Judea into Galilee, and throughout the streets of Jerusalem. Ironically, the disciples who loved Jesus the most did not immediately recognize Him. It was only when Jesus broke the bread, or spoke a Word, that His true identity was revealed. Why did His disciples first struggle to recognize the Lord? Would you recognize Jesus Christ if He approached on the street corner, or sat at the table next to you in the coffee shop?

The Father who created you, who loves you, sees your heart. He knows you from the inside out. The Father sent His Son and the Son sent His Spirit to love you. He does not see your imperfections; He believes in your possibilities! God recognizes you with or without makeup. You do not need a fancy wardrobe or a red carpet accolade to win His personal favor. Grace was poured out at Calvary and the victory over sin and death conquered forever the moment Jesus arose from the grave. And no broken arrow from Satan can change what The Father has already done. He calls you and me to come and see Him for who He truly is. Won’t you give your heart to the Lord? He is the only One who can take the one thing that has been bruised, broken and shattered, and create something beautiful and brand new in you. Open your heart to the perfect love of Jesus Christ. Ask Him to be your Lord and Savior today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Junk food junkie

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:29 NIV

29 [Paul said,] “When they had carried out all that was written about Him, they took Him down from the tree and laid Him in a tomb.”

Good morning!

What do you like to do just for fun? When Jeff was in seminary, the city theater offered dollar night tickets to pastors and their families in town. We were able to go to the dollar show every Friday night and enjoy watching all the new releases. Some of the new films were not worth the dollar we paid for admission, and yet, we called it our date night out and ignored what our minds were consuming. It was only after our children began to go with us to the theater that we became painfully aware of our own poor movie choices.

It just doesn’t seem right to go into a theater and not indulge in a little junk food. My favorite snack is hot buttered popcorn with a cold diet soda. I know this is really bad for my body, but that doesn’t always stop me from eating it. Do you ever choose to consume the things that you know will hurt you? Whenever I choose to indulge, I become a junk food junkie by default.

It would seem that a public crucifixion brought some sick sort of entertainment value for many families living in and near the city gates. Many came just for the spiritual entertainment being served. I’m sure that the brutality and suffering of one convicted felon was publicly displayed to instill a bold lesson about the consequences of disobedience. Yet, it would seem that many came to the hill just to participate in the sadistic sport of it. I cannot imagine having to watch someone die such a cruel death, or sitting in the stands, cheering and jeering while watching another human being getting pinned to that shameful tree. Some of the religious rulers may have felt it was spiritually uplifting to see convicted sinners punished for their crimes. Would their insatiable appetite of this tasteless spiritual junk food somehow cover the sins that were hidden in their own hearts?

Spiritual junk food junkies can get trapped in the ritual, while missing the message. We can see ourselves falling into a spiritual spiral when we attend church just to be seen, and not really to worship. People come to church for many reasons. We go to be entertained, enjoying a time of singing and dancing with a great praise band; we consume all of the spiritual pats on the back spoken by our preacher, and leave feeling a whole lot better about ourselves. We begin to consume spiritual junk food, thinking our token offerings are enough to please the Lord God Almighty. You see, worship is so not about you – it is all about glorifying the Father who sees your heart and knows you better than you know yourself! It is a time for repentance and heartfelt prayer, confession of sin, and asking for God’s mercy and grace. This is the time to be brutally honest with God, to see and care more about the needs of those who surround us, and choosing to do something about it; this is the time to begin life anew with the Lord. If we are too busy getting caught up in the church’s entertainment value, we are choosing to swallow a whole new menu of spiritual junk food. It will permanently scar our bodies, minds and souls. Don’t let it consume you!

Here are some of the spiritual junk foods I have swallowed whole and without hesitation in my own life: half-hearted worship; reciting memorized prayers with no personal investment in the recitation of the words; refusing to put Christ first in my life in the giving of time, talent and treasure; reading the Scriptures without truly consuming His Word; making excuses for my bad behaviors by pointing my own forked finger at someone else’s sin. What kinds of spiritual junk food have you allowed yourself to eat?

Worship, study and prayer is not an option – it is God’s commandment for all His creation. We need to stop playing church and be the Church that Jesus Christ has called us to be. Sugar coating His Word and helping people feel good about who they are is not the purpose of the Church. Let go of the spiritual junk food you’ve been eating and let us worship the Lord in Spirit and in Truth! Help us, Jesus!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Hung Out to Dry

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:28 NIV

28 [Paul said,] “Though they found no proper ground for a death sentence, they asked Pilate to have [Jesus] executed.”

Good morning!

Have you ever been betrayed by someone you trusted? Maybe it was a co-worker or a supervisor at work, wanting to somehow level the playing field and protect their perceived territory. Maybe it was someone in your family: a spouse, a child, a parent. Maybe it was your very best friend. Betrayal hurts, no matter who the perpetrator is; yet, it is far worse when it is someone you know and love.

Sometimes the people who love us most see our bad behavior and will seek to find ways to constructively help us help ourselves. When someone rats us out, it often feels like we’ve been betrayed at first; yet, after time passes, we begin to realize the intent was not to harm us but to help save us from our own bad choices and behaviors. Children often feel betrayed and misunderstood by their parents, especially when they are caught in a flurry of bad choices. We learn to love and appreciate each other even more when we are able to set aside our anger and look beyond the initial pain we feel.

Many times, people act out of pure selfishness and personal gain. They are afraid of you, afraid that you might actually be better suited for their job, or better equipped to take care of the situation at hand. Maybe they are afraid of your popularity, that they are not nearly as well-liked as you. Often, people retaliate against each other simply because they are greedy and will not stop until they have it all. Regardless of how you are wronged, the truth remains that it is a devastating life experience when we are hung out to dry.

The religious leaders were concerned that Jesus’ overwhelming popularity with the people would cause an uproar in the living environment and culture they had created. They thought if they could somehow sway the people against Him, it would put an end to His mission, His life. Even Jesus’ disciples were terrified to the point of denying their relationship with the Lord, fearing they would also suffer and die by default. The crowd that welcomed Christ into the city streets just one week earlier decided they were now ready to conduct a lynching. There was nothing fair or right about it. Jesus Christ was being hung out on a cross to dry.

One of the greatest miracles occurred in the moments that followed the kangaroo court and all the injustices leveled against a sinless man. Jesus Christ forgave them all! He bore no animosity against His accusers. As a matter of fact, He loved them so much that He willingly allowed them to kill His body, because Jesus knew He was the Only Way they would find eternal peace with the Father. When we think about all the healings that Christ performed throughout his earthly ministry, we sometimes forget to see the greatest healing occurring at His crucifixion. His blood was spilled out for you and for me.

If you are struggling to forgive someone who has hurt you, ask the Lord Jesus Christ to forgive Him through you. Jesus gave you His blood as a covering for all the mistakes you’ve ever made, and He will help you forgive those who have hurt you. Only Jesus can heal your heart and restore your life in full. Ask Jesus Christ to be the Lord of your life today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Missing the message

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:27 NIV

27 [Paul said,] “The people of Jerusalem and their rulers did not recognize Jesus, yet in condemning Him they fulfilled the words of the prophets that are read every Sabbath.”

Good morning!

I think I must have inherited some of my strong, opinionated ways from my dad. Our parents certainly have a way of impacting their children’s lives by the things they say and do. They make their contributions, for better or worse, and we must choose what to accept and reject. Daddy carried some very strong convictions on life in general and did not hesitate to share his worldview with us, most often, at the dinner table. We learned at a very early age not to engage Daddy in any conversation regarding religion, race, politics and especially labor-relations. Do you have family members and/or friends who hold strong views and are unafraid to verbalize them? Do their words sometimes irritate you to the point that you cannot keep an open mind?

My father was passionate about what he believed, and, as I think more about what he said today, I have a greater regard for his tenacity and courage in speaking up. Daddy drew some harsh conclusions that I still believe are wrong. If he were alive today, I’m not sure I’d try to rehash it with him. Do you ever wonder whether the battle is worth fighting?

Paul was speaking with the Holy Spirit power when he confronted the worshippers at the synagogue. He was making a point that was horribly distasteful to many in his hearing. And yet, he was speaking truth, clearly written in the Scripture. We, who crucified Jesus during Passover, did not recognize who He truly was. And, by doing so, the Scriptures were fulfilled just as it had been prophesied hundreds of years before.

Our strong will and personal opinions often work against us when we hear the Word of Truth. It is not always easy to hear truth spoken and readily accept it. Sometimes, our culture and family upbringing adversely affects our ability to fully open our hearts and minds to the words being spoken. There are times, almost every day, when I know I brushed up against the robe of my Master and did not recognize Him. I was shamefully way too preoccupied with my own personal thoughts and opinions. Are we missing the message because we’ve tuned out the messenger?

It is time to open our hearts to the truth of the matter. I have to have intervening help to be able to listen and learn. Won’t you join me in asking the Lord to help us set aside our preconceived notions, so that we can hear and understand what He is trying to speak into our hearts today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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

Pray before you play

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:26 NIV

26 [Paul said,] “Brothers, children of Abraham, and you God-fearing Gentiles, it is to us that this message of salvation has been sent.’”

Good morning!

Every Tuesday afternoon, my mother would pick me up from school and drop me off in front of Mrs. Roundtree’s home for a piano lesson. She lived just a few blocks from us; because of the traffic surrounding our subdivisions, Mom thought it might be too dangerous for me to walk alone. Mrs. Roundtree’s husband was a Nazarene Pastor; they lived in a modest, ranch home in a quiet neighborhood. In the fall, as we drove along the colorful tree-lined lane, I loved wading through the crunch of newly fallen leaves leading up to Mrs. Roundtree’s front door.

She was the only piano teacher I ever had who insisted on praying before every lesson. Her prayers were powerful! She would call upon the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, asking them for a meaningful lesson, drawing out the gifts they had planted in my heart, and the music we played would be a pleasing to the Lord. She always prayed in the name of Jesus, and I absolutely knew her piano bench was holy ground. If my feet could have touched the floor as I sat there on the bench, covered in His mercy and grace, I would have removed my socks and shoes.

I found it odd that her husband was generally home in the afternoons. My father never got home before 5:30pm. Rev. Roundtree was always there, waiting for his children to walk through the door from school. Just around the corner from where I sat, their family would gather together in the den and quietly discuss the events of their day together. It was somewhat distracting to me, not that they were loud, but because there were times when I longed to be in that room with them. He would gently ask each of his children about their day. As they replied, he would whisper “Praise God” to the good things, and “Let’s pray about it” when hurtful words of a sharp-edged teacher or the actions of a class bully made one of his children frustrated. Rev. Roundtree would then begin reading the Holy Scripture and discussing it openly with his children. Whenever he would begin reading Scripture, my ears would burn with excitement. I tried very hard to concentrate on my own piano lesson. Sometimes I would ask Mrs. Roundtree to demonstrate a particular part of the lesson, so I could really listen to God’s Word being spoken through words and music, all at the same time. Their family made a huge spiritual impact on my life. I will never forget their hospitality and loving kindness.

Every ear must have been burning that day, as Paul proclaimed the message of salvation is given not just to the children of Abraham, but to God-fearing Gentiles. It was as if a holy door had swung opened, bridging the gap between nations, customs, and culture. The Lord Jesus Christ had come for all people – not just those gathered in the inner circle or the outer chamber. He came for the folks standing in the streets, listening carefully to the words echoing throughout the city. Jesus came, not just for preacher’s kids, but for not so great piano students sitting in the other room. Jesus came to heal the sick, find the lost, and love the unlovable ones. This is really good news for someone just like me.

Are you ears burning? Do you long for the Savior to lead you in your life’s song? I invite you to follow the advice of Mrs. Roundtree: pray before you play. Invite Jesus Christ to be the Lord of your life right now. Make a daily commitment to dig deeper into His Word during this season of Lent, beginning this morning. If you will pray before you play, you will hear His voice, speaking to you all day long.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

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