Word games

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:46 NIV

46 Then Paul and Barnabas answered them boldly: “We had to speak the word of God to you first. Since you reject it and do not consider yourselves worthy of eternal life, we now turn to the Gentiles.”



Good morning!



One of my favorite things to do is spend some time playing word games with my grandchildren. Jett and Joshua are reading well now, and they like to read out loud to Nanny whenever we get together for a visit. Emily is just beginning to read; she enjoys reading a new word and copying it on paper. Madison and Andrew like to be read to. Two year old Andrew will sit on my lap for as long as twenty minutes, engrossed in the pages of a good book. He will pronounce the last word of every sentence after I say it! This is quite an accomplishment with a wee one who struggled with verbal expression only six months ago. It is a challenge to read to Madison; she would much rather tell the story to me. She is flamboyant in her conversation – Maddie has to be up and moving while she tells the story. I’m convinced she took a speed speaking class for three year olds. Maddie gets on a verbal roll and often it is very difficult for Nanny to understand her.



It does not matter who is reading the book – one thing is for certain: the words leap off the page in bold print! Joshua and Jett read with conviction. I hear inflection and emphasis on the very important words of each sentence. Emily likes to use punctuation to emphasize the selected word she is learning to write. Madison cannot stand still while sharing her story. She will stand for nothing less than your complete, undivided attention. If you happen to look away while she is telling her story, Maddie will put both hands on your face and pull you back toward her, so that she has eye contact with you. This little girl has a shot at becoming a fine political lobbyist one day. Andrew pronounces every third word with great conviction and determination. He could become the next great conductor/composer. His words are filled with passion, in a steady rhythmic flow. We better understand the words we read and speak when they are conveyed with heart.



Why did Paul and Barnabas feel compelled to speak the bold Word of salvation to the Jews first? The Father’s plan provided a means for His chosen people to lead all people into a personal relationship with Him through Jesus Christ, His Son. Paul was brought up in a Jewish home. He had a great understanding of the law and prophets; his upbringing and heritage enabled him to convey the fulfillment of Scripture to his brothers who were worshipping in the synagogue. Unfortunately, there were many who refused to recognize Jesus as God’s Messiah; they would not accept the idea that Jahweh would offer His saving grace for all people. It took a holy boldness for Paul to stand before his brothers and proclaim God's Word with such compelling force. Sometimes, we need His Word to hit us between the eyes, to pierce our hardened hearts, so that we might know and understand the Truth.



This is no Word game. Paul and Barnabas are speaking God’s Word as the Holy Spirit gives them utterance. Are we able to fully comprehend what they are conveying to us today? Jesus Christ became the sin scapegoat for all people. Christ’s death and resurrection is proof positive that we can receive new life right now. If you have not yet asked Jesus Christ to be your Lord and Savior, please pray these words: “Father, I believe that Jesus Christ is your only Son, and that He came to save me from my sin. I invite Christ into my heart today. Wash my sin away in Your precious blood. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for saving me. Amen.”



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.

Spiritual tick

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:45 NIV

45 When the Jews saw the crowds, they were filled with jealousy and talked abusively against what Paul was saying.

Good morning!

Ticks are annoying little creatures, wouldn’t you agree? They are tiny, blood sucking parasites, commonly found in wooded areas and tall grass. Whenever our family went camping, Mom and Dad would make me and my sister line up for a “tick” check before bed. If a tick buries itself in human flesh and goes undetected, one can become seriously ill with Lyme disease or Rocky Mountain spotted fever. It can kill you if left untreated. Whenever Daddy found a tick hanging out on one of our extremities, he would take his cigarette lighter and hold it near our skin. The warmth of the flame would most often force the tick to let go of us and run! Sometimes we had to dig them out with a needle. To be brutally honest, I really don’t care for ticks at all.

There are other types of ticks that seem to distract and annoy. The constant ticking of a clock can be a deterrent when we’re trying to maintain focus in an otherwise quiet room. Our dishwasher cycle has a rhythmic ticking sound when running which often causes me leave the room during its cycle. The sound is short lived; yet that particular noise can really distract me, especially if I’m fighting a headache or trying to read or write.

I was listening to one of my favorite worship services broadcast over the radio, while driving in my car. The Pastor had what I would classify as a spiritual tick running throughout his sermon. If my own pastor, during the course of preaching a sermon says, “Now listen,” my mind immediately focuses and my ears listen carefully to the next word he speaks. I do not want to miss the main point of his message. This is an effective way to instantly attract the attention of your listener. However, when the pastor says, “Now listen” twenty-eight times during the course of a sermon, it becomes a mere distraction. I found myself counting the number of times the radio preacher said, “Now listen” than really paying attention to what he was actually trying to convey. It was truly unfortunate, because God’s Word of grace was somehow getting lost in the spiritual tick of a passionate preacher’s heart.

Many people who heard Paul speak, could not get past their own spiritual tick to hear the message. They were much more concerned about refuting Paul's personal testimony than listening and receiving Christ’s message of salvation. I wish we could say that we have learned to let go of spiritual ticks as we’ve gained knowledge throughout the generations but I would be lying through my teeth if I told you so. The danger of leaving a spiritual tick unchecked is that it can cost you eternal life. What seems to be a simple difference of opinion can fester into an eternal life choice. How often do we get so wrapped up in our own pat theological rhetoric and philosophies that we cannot see the Savior standing right in front of us? He trips us up like tiny wrinkles buckling over the carpet of lives. We over analyze faith, becoming way too entrenched in the way things were, to open our hearts to the reality that Messiah has truly come. Jesus Christ’s life, death and resurrection is a clear and convincing revelation of the fulfillment of the Father’s everlasting promise; yet, many miss this message because they cannot get past the distractions of their own spiritual ticks.

Father, we need your help to lay down our spiritual ticks at the foot of the cross. We really want to hear, understand, and obey Your Word. Help us not be so distracted by the incessant noise of this world that we miss the glorious Good News of Your Son and Our Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

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.

Sweet dreams

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:44 NIV

44 On the next Sabbath almost the whole city gathered to hear the Word of the Lord.

Good morning!

My mother is quite a dreamer! She talks in her sleep all the time. When she was a little girl, Mom recalled how her brothers slept in one bedroom and she and her sisters in the bedroom next door. Mom shared a large poster bed with her two younger sisters. Mom’s place in bed was next to the wall of her brother’s room. She insists her parents often teased her because she and her younger brother Hayward would have conversations together while sleeping in separate rooms. They would ask questions and answer each other from separate bedrooms. Mom still dreams out loud today. Yesterday afternoon, while napping on my sofa, she was having a friendly conversation with Jesus. Her eyes were closed, yet, she conversed with Him as if He were right there sitting next to her. She was laughing and using hand gestures, in between snores. I didn’t get whole gist of her conversation, but she seemed so happy, smiling and enjoying sacred time with her forever friend.

Yesterday morning, we visited an assisted living facility not far from where Jeff and I live. The administrator told me about her mother’s home going. She said that her mother had lived a very active and long life. When the ravages of a stroke left her virtually immobile, she lay comatose for three days, struggling for every breath she took. Cathy and her sister were sitting on the bed with their mama, whispering that it was okay to go home and be with Jesus. The paralyzed woman, who couldn’t even move her toes, drew her very last breath, and as she did, lifted her right arm high above her head, as if she were taking the hand of her best friend. This was such a holy moment, precious and unscripted. Cathy learned a lot about faith through as she watched her own Mother pass from the life into eternity.

God’s Word speaks to us, in Sabbath moments and heartfelt dreams. Through His sweet, loving Spirit, we communicate with the Lord fully awake and in rim cycles, when our hearts are quiet and open to His still, small voice. The sweet dreams we dream become ingrained in our lives as we open our hearts and minds to His perfect Will.

Do you talk to Jesus when you sleep? Can you remember what He whispers in your ear? Be sensitive to the Holy Spirit speaking to you today in moments of worship, prayer and rest. May you find yourself caught up in a sweet dream with the 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.

Continuing in the grace of God

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:43 NIV

43 When the congregation was dismissed, many of the Jews and devout converts to Judaism followed Paul and Barnabas, who talked with them and urged them to continue in the grace of God.

Good morning!

What drives your passion for living? Has something or someone compelled you to move forward in faith?

My sister-in-law recently received a prestigious lifetime achievement award for her years of service teaching high school English. Her skill sets go far beyond the blackboard and classroom. It is her life’s passion, lived out in the vocation to which she has been called, leaving an everlasting mark on the lives of her students. Can you name the one teacher who profoundly impacted the direction of your life’s work?

My mother recently entered the hospital urgently. Her personal physician was out of town at the time she was admitted for treatment. Her case was promptly assigned to a physician whom we had never met. I was humbled by his devoted attention to Mom’s treatment plan and care. Our doctors give their lives to assessing the health needs of all who come to receive restored health and hope. They often work long hours, with precious little time to spend with their own families. What a remarkable gift he gave to my Mother! It is certainly possible that he may not remember her name next week; yet, I will remember with a thankful heart her physician’s name and face, as I pray for him in the days and weeks to come.

It is clear from Scripture that Paul and Barnabas were compelled to preach Christ boldly wherever they went. Because of their religious upbringing, they longed to share the Good News of grace with their Jewish brothers first. It must have been extraordinarily encouraging for these young evangelists to watch their kinsmen receive new life as they accepted Christ. They knew from whence the power came; if there were any new converts, it is only because of the power and support of the Holy Spirit moving and working in seeking hearts.

I am daily blessed by the encouraging words of my pastors, teachers, mentors and Christian friends, who share new life and live it out in tireless devotion for others. I can see Jesus living and working within you. May you be encouraged today in the faith, as you share your passion for Jesus Christ with the world.

A little encouragement makes all the difference as we step up in faith. Christians receive encouragement from the Holy Spirit, who comes to us in a rushing wind, igniting us with holy fire. May you find the strength you need in the Lord who calls you to live your life with passion and purpose, continuing in the grace of God.

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.

Soul-winning recipe

Today’s Readings: Acts 13:42 NIV

42 As Paul and Barnabas were leaving the synagogue, the people invited them to speak further about these things on the next Sabbath.

Good evening!

“Pass the potatoes, please!” I have no personal preference as to how it is served; they are absolutely delicious mashed, smashed, baked, broiled, skewered, or boiled. While I do enjoy German potato salad, potato soup, mashed potatoes with gravy, baked potatoes with margarine, potato casserole, hash brown potatoes, thick-cut French fries and/or cheesy scalloped potatoes, my favorite potato is a plain baker, with a dash of salt, pepper and a little margarine on the side. The potato is an amazing food source, loaded in carbohydrates and vitamins. Much of what we add to the potato is not healthy for our bodies; yet, I attest that the perfect potato is simply a divine culinary taste treat!

Just as our physical bodies need food for fuel, our souls need spiritual food that recharges and propels us forward by faith. Paul and Barnabas were cooking up a little soul food smorgasbord at the synagogue that day; and many who heard Paul speak craved more. The people instinctively recognized Jesus Christ working in and through these men, as they spoke about the Lord. They witnessed miraculous healings and knew the testimony was true. The people asked Paul and Barnabas to stay through the week and speak again on the following Sabbath. One simple serving of the Gospel message was not nearly enough to feed the need.

Spiritual nourishment can come in a garden variety of ways. We consume it at church, in Sunday school, at in-home Bible Studies and small group meetings. We worship in a variety of different community settings; sometimes we are fed through a Christian radio or television broadcast. We do not have to look far to find the Word of Christ online. Wherever Christian believers are, Jesus Christ enters into the mix and feeds us all.

I feel compelled by the Holy Spirit to especially encourage my friends - especially my pastors, teachers, and mentors who daily serve the Lord. Sometimes, we think we have to dress up the Gospel to make it palatable within our rapidly changing culture. We are constantly reinventing how we do worship; we speak, using culturally relevant terminology; we worry about our praise worship and whether the music will appeal to every generation. We hope to supernaturally meet every personal preference on the planet. Did Jesus appeal to all whom He encountered as He walked the earth in human flesh? Our Lord has not changed. He is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow. His Daddy is the Great I AM. We get so lost in looking for a new edge, that we forget Christ’s Word is the only edge we will ever need. Just like the potato is a perfectly healthy food source, Jesus Christ is the perfect soul food for every hungry human heart. We don’t need to dress Him up to make Him more appealing. His Word alone is relevant today! If we are willing to serve up the Gospel with the same fervor of Paul and Barnabas, we can count on the Holy Spirit to do all the wooing. The people will come, because they are starving to hear the Truth. This is a natural craving birthed into every human heart, and only Jesus Christ can fill it.

Please make His Message simple. When folks realize who the Lord truly is and who we are in relationship to Him; as we are compelled to repent of our sins and seek Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Savior, spiritual taste buds burst open with the flavorful goodness of His grace! There is only One Way to the Father, and it is through the Son. Praise the Lord for His soul-winning recipe.

Sharing Christ’s message of salvation is not nearly as difficult as we human types make it. Father, please forgive us. Fill your Church with a holy hunger to obediently serve your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, by sharing your perfect soul food with the world. The Gospel will speak for itself. Our job is simply to GO. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, for He is the source of our strength, Amen.

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.

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.