The double portion

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:3 NLT

³But the apostles stayed there a long time, preaching boldly about the grace of the Lord. And the Lord proved their message was true by giving them power to do miraculous signs and wonders.

Good morning!

After my mother’s fall, a dear friend loaned her a walker to use while her broken pelvic bone mended. It took a lot of encouragement for Mom to use this health aide, at first. She had grown accustomed to walking independently for eighty-seven years, and the walker initially seemed like a burden rather than a blessing. She conveniently forgot to use it quite often. You need to understand that my mother is a very stubborn person. I’ve inherited some of that tenacity from her and this is a character trait I am proud to pass along. Two months to the day of her fall, Mom’s physician agreed to let her set the awkward walker aside.

A short time later, Mom took yet another spill, which resulted in a badly broken wrist, and the walker has been brought out of storage and dusted off. Once her wrist heals to the place where she can bear weight, Mom has now decided that this walker is a much needed life accessory. My sister and I are making plans now to color coordinate it with her wardrobe! Until then, Mom chooses to lean on her colorful daughters’ arms. They have become her walker, a daily source of daily balance in a confusing situation. It is a great privilege to walk Mom everywhere she wants to go. Quite often, I find that she encourages me in ways she cannot even imagine as we walk this road together.

We were supposed to be at the tax office on Friday morning, taking care of Mom’s 2009 income tax filing, when she began complaining of numbness and pain in her left hand. The doctor’s exchange said we should come immediately to his office for an examination. My husband went to the tax meeting in Mom’s place while I drove her to the doctor. The purple cast had to come off. The noise of the electric saw was so loud that I promptly removed Mom’s hearing aids. Mom began to scream at the top of her lungs as the determined assistant cut through the hard plaster exterior. I asked Mom if she was in pain. She looked up at me, a little surprised, and emphatically said, “No.” I asked her why she was screaming. Mom flashed a feisty smile my way and replied, “The tax man cometh while my left hand goeth. Blessed be the name of the Lord!” I laughed out loud! She may be eighty-seven years young, but my mother hasn’t skipped a beat! So the purple cast came off; Mom got to keep her hand and, as an added bonus, didn’t owe any additional money to the US government. Praise God from whom all blessings flow!

Barnabas was a born encourager. When he accepted Jesus Christ as His personal Lord and Savior, Barnabas was immediately filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. He allowed the Spirit to use him wherever he went. When Paul came to Jerusalem following his conversion on the Damascus road, Barnabas risked his life to convince the Apostles of Paul’s change of heart. Barnabas went with Paul on his first missionary journey, walking with him every step of the way. He became the mediator extraordinaire between Paul and John Mark; it was because of Barnabas’ constant encouragement they were later reunited in missionary travels.

If Barnabas were speaking to us today, I imagine he would probably shrug his shoulders and wonder what all the fuss is about. I believe he would probably tell us that he received the greater blessing – so much more than he ever gave away. When we choose to love each other the way Jesus Christ loves each of us, it is easy to be a strong arm for another. Christ calls us to encourage each other in the faith; it is a true privilege to serve each other out of kindness and in Christian love. There will come a day when you and I will need a little extra help to walk the road. Be sure to look for new ways to encourage the people God has placed on your path. This gift of encouragement is a daily presence that keeps on giving and giving. It is the double portion.

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.

Tracking changes of the heart

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:2 NIV

²But the Jews who refused to believe stirred up the Gentiles and poisoned their minds against the brothers.

Acts 14:2 CEV

²But the Jews who did not have faith in him made the other Gentiles angry and turned them against the Lord's followers.

Good morning!

I was on my way to pick up Mom from the beauty shop yesterday when my cell phone rang. A friend was on the other line, seeking assistance with the “track changes” feature in a Word® document. She began to describe how the computer had seemingly taken on a life of its own when she innocently tried to find and replace one word with another in a document she had been editing. Without warning, her text lit up the monitor with color-coordinated strike-through marks and underlines across the page. She had absolutely no idea what it was or how to remove it. I did not have my laptop with me, but was familiar with the feature she was describing. I made a suggestion and told her I would pray as she made the needed change. A few minutes later, she called me back and confirmed that the document had been saved and all is well.

How do we track changes of the heart? Our insatiable “need to know” has sparked a cultural worldview and media frenzy unlike any other in history. Think about it – when the early church began to spread the Gospel to the ends of the earth, they did not have the help of computers, text messaging, blackberries, or satellite television. There were no magazine subscriptions or newspapers on the street corners for people to purchase. No random opinion polls or surveys were being taken; and yet, the Word spread quickly, like a brush fire spreading through a parched and dry forest. Even without the help of modern technology as we know it, people formed opinions of late breaking news and opinions about the men and women who were spreading it. Many, at first, disagreed with their personal testimonies. Have you ever been swayed by the popular vote? Did you choose to go with the crowd just to keep peace and not stand out as a lone dissenter? How many do you think had a serious change of heart after they had the opportunity to stop and weigh the evidence?

Paul and Barnabas knew what the Holy Spirit power could do. They had personally experienced a change of heart in their own lives. Paul, who was formerly known as Saul of Tarsus, felt so vehemently offended by the early church and its beliefs, that he personally sought out and killed many of the new converts to the Way. It was only after Christ appeared to him on the Damascus Road that he was able to truly track the change of heart in his own life. This was his life’s testimony; and it was stirring up the belief system of his brothers. Planting seeds of faith will often fall on rough and rocky soil. We know that our own simple words, when prompted in and through the power of the Holy Spirit, can bring about a drastic change in the place where any change of the status quo seems virtually impossible.

It may take years and we may not fully realize the eternal impact our words have now. Parents, do not give up teaching your children in the way they should go. The Word promises that when our children are old, they will not depart from it. Do not give up speaking the Truth to your friends and neighbors, even if it is difficult to track a change of heart right now. You never know how or when the Holy Spirit will move in and set His Word aflame. Keep looking up and do not look back. I am a witness who has experienced a deep and personal change of heart in my own life. This is what I testify to today. Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life and no one comes to the Father but by Him.

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.

Well spoken!

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:1 NIV

¹ At Iconium Paul and Barnabas went as usual into the Jewish synagogue. There they spoke so effectively that a great number of Jews and Gentiles believed.

Acts 14:1 New Century Version

¹ In Iconium, Paul and Barnabas went as usual to the synagogue. They spoke so well that a great many Jews and Greeks believed.

Good morning!

I was taught how to give an effective oral presentation in school. Once the subject matter was assigned, I would spend a considerable amount of time gathering research, weighing opinions, and learning as much as I could about the topic before preparing my outline. My professors preferred I use some mode of visual aide, to help draw the listeners in. The preferred presentation package would almost always include a PowerPoint® presentation, along with some tangible visual aide to help illustrate a particular point of the chosen topic. No matter how much I prepared and practiced in advance, I always got nervous just before I stood up to speak. Knowing the butterflies were coming helped me better focus on each important point of the presentation. Even with a well-prepared outline in front of me, and a computer to keep my hands busy, I do not recall a single presentation when I didn’t feel a little bit shaky before speaking.

My husband Jeff has an extraordinary gift for teaching and preaching. If you asked him, Jeff would tell you that he also experiences Sunday butterflies, often evidenced by a slight stutter. Jeff will tap his foot on the floor to keep a steady pace as he articulates the words God has given Him to speak. His deep voice carries well in a crowded room; without a microphone, my squeaky little voice tends to fade away into the crowd. My mother can even understand Jeff and she is profoundly deaf! There is something very special about the sound of a pastor’s strong voice - it is truly a gift from God.

Jeff sometimes wonders after worship, whether his delivery of Christ’s saving message is clear and convincing for all who came to listen. Some weekends are obviously easier than others. I remember one particular Sunday when Jeff preached the morning services sporting a broken elbow from a fall he took early that morning before worship. Obviously, he didn’t know his elbow was broken until after church. He refused to take his suit jacket off and let me assess the damage until after he had finished delivering his Sunday sermons. The only reason we even went to the ER that day was because he needed a few stitches and he kept wondering why he didn’t have enough strength in his hand to hold the Bible up. The triage nurse was alarmed that it had been over seven hours before Jeff sought medical treatment. His quiet response, “I had to preach,” seemed to surprise her. After living with this preacher man for thirty-two years, nothing surprises me anymore!

Paul and Barnabas walked from Antioch to Iconium, a small town located in modern day Turkey. There was some sense of familiarity as they entered the synagogue together. Paul and Barnabas were literally surrounded by a group of strangers, whose culture, traditions and beliefs were somewhat similar. The Jews and Greeks came that day with one common goal; to listen, learn and worship. These presenters did not have a smart board or PowerPoint® at their fingertips; there were no Kodak® photographs of the Lord Jesus Christ to pass around the crowd. Every word that was spoken had to be clear and concise, painting a visual image in the hearts and minds of all who entered the synagogue that day. Do you think Paul and Barnabas had a case of the butterflies before they spoke?

The power of the Holy Spirit was evident, filling the room with a fresh breath of new life. It is this same power that works in and through our pastors and teachers, you and me, to help us convey God’s Word with a lost and hurting world. Let go of your butterflies and allow the Lord Jesus Christ to use you for a well spoken Word. Ask the Lord to fill you with His sweet Holy Spirit today. It is the Father’s gift, given freely to all who receive Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.

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.

Pot stirrers

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:50-52 The Message

^50-52Some of the Jews convinced the most respected women and leading men of the town that their precious way of life was about to be destroyed. Alarmed, they turned on Paul and Barnabas and forced them to leave. Paul and Barnabas shrugged their shoulders and went on to the next town, Iconium, brimming with joy and the Holy Spirit, two happy disciples.

Acts 13:51 NIV

So they shook the dust from their feet in protest against them and went to Iconium.

Good morning!

A little bit of pot stirring has the power to incarcerate Christ’s message, if we choose to let it. Paul and Barnabas knew it would be hard for their Jewish brothers to let go of their time-honored traditions and religious rules long enough to see the salvation that has come through Jesus Christ. While many people experienced the breath of a Holy Spirit flame, there were others who could not and would not open their hearts to the possibility of new life. And, as a result, they began to stir up a riot against two innocent men who cared enough to share the Good News of Jesus Christ in their community.

Have you, in anger, ever stirred the proverbial pot against another, sharing confidential and personal information adding a little bit of your own unsavory slant? Did your words and actions cause someone else to reject that person out of disgust? Our words and our actions have weight. We can cut others to the quick in the mere blink of an eye. Have you ever been the primary target of a pot stirring?

It is not always easy in today’s culture to share our faith with others. We have created copious laws to protect people’s rights to believe what they want to believe without a balanced response from others who may see things differently. Unfortunately, we humans have placed a personal gag order on our own ability to share personal faith experiences with the people God has placed in our lives. The fear of rejection is never an easy pill to swallow; I think it hurts the most when we are rejected by the people with whom we are closest to. Paul and Barnabas knew the high cost of personal rejection. They knew they were putting their lives on the line for Christ. Yet, they cared more about getting His Word out than remaining safe and popular inside the walls of their own religious sect. They also had been given permission to simply walk away, if necessary.

It is a good thing that we are not responsible for the act of salvation. The Father’s plan is already in place. Jesus Christ, His Only Son, took care of salvation once and for all on Calvary’s tree. The power of the Holy Spirit is not subject to the laws of man. We can put up our brick walls, but the Spirit moves where it will, and if the walls are going to fall, they will – not by man’s efforts but by God’s glory! Human hearts can be changed in a moment’s notice. Our timing is certainly not God’s timing and His ways are not our ways. Paul and Barnabas continued to plant seeds of faith, knowing the seed would fall and take root in the fertile hearts of men and women who were earnestly seeking the Savior. No amount of pot stirring or back stabbing could stop the winds of the Spirit moving in and through their cities. Faith in Christ did not hinge on human words alone, nor did it need to instantly convert everyone in its hearing to validate Christ’s message.

When it comes to sharing our faith in Jesus Christ, we can follow the lead of Paul and Barnabas even today! Do not hesitate to share your personal witness, for your faith story is the most important truth you will ever tell. Do not worry whether folks choose to believe you, or if they decide to stir the proverbial pot against you. We do what the Lord asks us to, and when we’re finished, we simply shake the dust from our feet, and move on in faith. Our joy is not bound to statistical tables and cultural trends; all of these are man’s markers for perceived successes or failures. Our only joy; our only hope is in the full obedience of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ with the world, and trusting our Lord completely for His harvest. Paul and Barnabas were two very happy disciples, as they left Antioch and moved on to Iconium. Have you found true happiness in the Lord Christ Jesus 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.

Free blood transfusions today!

Today’s Reading: Ephesians 1:7 The Message

⁷ Because of the sacrifice of the Messiah, his blood poured out on the altar of the Cross, we're a free people—free of penalties and punishments chalked up by all our misdeeds. And not just barely free, either. Abundantly free!

Good morning!

Have you had to have a major surgery? Last fall, while waiting in the pre-op holding area, I had to sign a form release for permission to receive blood in the event I would lose too much blood during the surgical procedure. Blood is a precious commodity to the health of our bodies and without enough of it, we die.

This morning, I arrived to the church just as the pianist was finishing her beautiful praise medley to honor our risen Lord. I looked up at the cross, draped in a white sash. I could smell the fragrance of the Easter lilies wafting around the sanctuary. I knew the blood He shed on the cross over two thousand years ago was still giving new life to people all over the world. I came today to receive His free blood transfusion in my life.

Before I became severely anemic, I regularly donated blood to The American Red Cross®. I was told at the blood bank that for every pint I gave, my gift could potentially save three people from an untimely death. Blood donations are not always the easiest to give. Some folks get sick and dizzy; others pass out at the sight of blood. I found it was a privilege to give something that someone else might need in a medical emergency. I often thought about what it would be like if my child was in a terrible car accident and, upon arriving to the emergency room, there was no extra supply of blood to treat him. Would he die there because there was no blood available for him?

The Father gave Moses life-giving law, who then instructed the people to sacrifice the blood of an unblemished lamb as a means for atonement of their sins. Yet, it took something far greater than an animal to completely cover the sins of the whole world. This is why Jesus came; His blood for you and for me is unending; there is enough to cover your sins and mine. His death and resurrection is the only blood transfusion you need to receive new life and freedom from sin and death forever. The never-ending supply continues to give to all who will receive Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord.

The gift of human blood is a priceless gift to someone who is physically dying. The gift of Christ’s blood is a priceless gift to someone who is dying in their sins, forever separated from the Father’s love. Would you like to receive a free blood transfusion today? You do not need a medical insurance card to receive His precious gift of new life. The cost was completely paid for on Calvary by the only One who could give it – God Himself. Come and experience a brand new life today at the foot of the cross. May you find healing and wholeness in Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns forever! Tell everyone you know, free blood transfusions are available for the taking 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.

A lot at stake

Today’s Reading: Luke 23:11-12 NIV

¹¹ Then Herod and his soldiers ridiculed and mocked [Jesus]. Dressing Him in an elegant robe, they sent Him back to Pilate. ¹² That day Herod and Pilate became friends – before this they had been enemies.

Luke 23:11-12 The Message

^11-12Mightily offended, Herod turned on Jesus. His soldiers joined in, taunting and jeering. Then they dressed him up in an elaborate king costume and sent him back to Pilate. That day Herod and Pilate became thick as thieves. Always before they had kept their distance.

Good morning!

It was hard to breathe last night, sitting in a darkened sanctuary, listening to the pounding of stakes into the three wooden crosses at the altar. The pastor invited us to come forward, pick up a stake and hammer, and nail our sin to the tree. As I looked up toward the ceiling, I saw the gruesome scene in shadows on the ceiling. There, the crosses loomed and I watched as people pounded their sins into the tree. The noise was deafening; you couldn’t escape it. It was as if I could smell the stench of blood and vomit floating in the air; I could hear the screams of the people and the unending suffering of one sinless man. There was a lot at stake the day Christ carried the sins of the world on the cross at Calvary.

I saw the tears and heard the weeping all around me. It echoed like a sad song throughout the sanctuary. A young mother sat quietly to my left. The tears rolled down her cheeks faster than she could wipe them. I am certain she was thinking about her little boys, and what it must have been like for Jesus’ mother Mary, to live through that awful, wondrous day. I couldn’t help but think about my children and grandchildren, praying that they would nail their sins to the cross and find complete wholeness and forgiveness, covered in the precious blood of the Lamb. For all mothers everywhere, there is a lot at stake this Holy week.

Isn’t it ironic how two rival rulers become the best of friends by allowing the cruel death of God just to keep civil peace? Surely this would never happen again, would it… could it? The lengths we humans go to remain in the good graces of our neighbors are inexcusable, especially when it comes to sacrificing faith in trade for the popular vote. There was a lot at stake here. Two sinful men became the best of friends in their grave decision.

Jesus Christ forgave us all as the Roman guard pounded the stakes into His flesh, and left Him on a cross to die. As the Father turned away, Jesus continued to cry out, revealing His undying faith in His own dying moment. Can you imagine the cost Christ paid for your salvation? This is the moment of decision. Will you pick up a spike and hammer, and nail your sins to the tree? Your soul’s salvation is hanging in the balance.

If you have invited the Lord Jesus Christ into your heart, then I would urge you to spend this day praying for those who do not yet believe. Christ calls each and every one of us as witnesses to His death and resurrection. My friends, there is a lot at stake right now.

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.

Eternal commitment

Today’s Reading: Luke 23:44-46 NIV

44 It was now about the sixth hour, and darkness came over the whole land until the ninth hour, 45 for the sun had stopped shining. And the curtain of the temple was torn in two. 46 Jesus called out with a loud voice, “Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.” When he had said this, he breathed his last.

Revelation 5:12-13 NIV

In a loud voice they sang: “Worthy is the Lamb who was slain, to receive power and wealth and wisdom and strength and honor and glory and praise!” 13 Then I heard every creature in heaven and on earth and under the earth and on the sea, and all that is in them, singing: “To Him who sits upon the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power for ever and ever!”

Good morning!

It was dark in the sanctuary. The altar had been stripped of everything that adorned it – the communion elements were gone. The meal had been served; our Lord had been taken away. I couldn’t help but wonder what it would be like to live in a world without Christ’s love to guide us. For a moment, I felt so lost. Then I remembered the words from a familiar passage of Scripture, and my heart began to sing, “Worthy is the lamb who was slain… to Him who sits upon the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power for ever and ever!” The dark night of the soul no longer seemed so ominous. I knew sins chains had been broken once and for all. The light is returning; there is victory in Jesus; there is hope for a lost world!

Worship is a powerful thing. It touches our intellect and emotion; worship helps us recognize our total unworthiness and the amazing gift of grace that we have received. The Easter Sunday celebration that is coming is chalked full of praise and beauty and celebratory music! There will be dancing and laughter, and wonderful preaching! Pastors get pumped on Easter, and for good reason. This is the reason we celebrate – Christ’s death and resurrection is the final and sufficient means for all people to experience salvation! Bells will peal from church steeples. Parade goers will fill the streets of Jerusalem, heading toward the empty tomb. Even with all the upcoming revelry, I find myself drawn deeper to the somber remembrance of Christ’s suffering. His anguish should have been mine. Christ willingly gave His life as the perfect sacrifice for my sins. His cross should have been my cross; His shame was mine. Jesus willingly did this so that I might experience a right relationship with The Father. I deserved His punishment; yet Jesus chose to save my life! Who could not help but rejoice in the greatest gift ever! When we receive Jesus into our hearts, we receive His promise of new life, for today, and all our tomorrows. Even in the looming darkness of this hour, I knew the morning Son would come again. And it is for this reason, I hold onto His promise. It can be yours today for the asking. Are you ready to make an eternal commitment to Jesus Christ?

Today, we remember the Lamb that was slain. May Christ’s blood cover you in grace, as you kneel at the foot of the cross. Pray this prayer with me, “Father, I do not deserve to come into your presence, but your Son, the Lamb of God, has made a way for me. For I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who came to take away the sins of the world; my sins, forever and ever! Thank you, Lord Jesus, for saving me! I will praise and serve you with everything I am; this is my eternal commitment. 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.

Living worship

Today’s Reading: Luke 22:19-20 NKJV

¹⁹ And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.” ²⁰ Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you.

Good morning!

Today is the day we remember and celebrate the Passover meal. The Father gave specific instruction to Moses on how to prepare and share this special dinner. The people prepared for the promise of their ultimate release from captivity, while awaiting God’s promise of full salvation. The perfect lamb was prepared; its blood preserved and placed over the door posts as a protective shield. When the angel of death came that night, it would pass over the children covered under the blood. The Passover meal is an act of living worship, celebrated in hope and wonder, as we prepare our hearts for the fulfillment of God’s salvation to all who are protected under the blood covering of the Lamb.

Jesus and his disciples came to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover feast together. This special meal was the last time Christ would eat with the disciples before His death. Advance preparations had been made for their time together. Jesus sent Peter and John to find a special place to share the Passover meal. As Christ prepared Himself to bear the sins of the world, the women prepared food, according to the traditions passed down from their forefathers. This is a humble act of living worship; Jesus prepares human hearts as we humble ourselves before the Father, protected under the blood of His perfect, spotless Lamb.

Living worship is the outward expression of genuine love for God. It is a beautiful thing to see; more precious to do. Living worship is a verb. It is not something we hope to experience while sitting in church; it is what we offer in return to the One who has given us His all. What does living worship mean to you?

We see Christ’s expression of living worship as He washes the feet of His friends, knowing in a few short hours they would scatter like lost sheep, denying any relationship with Him. Jesus dipped his hand in the cup with the One whom He knew would betray Him into the hands of angry, evil men. Jesus fully understood the impact His act of living worship would bring, watching as His disciples shared in the Passover meal together.

What will you bring as your act of living worship to His table? Will you place full faith in the promise of salvation through the perfect, sinless Lamb of God? Won’t you give your whole heart to Jesus right now? Christ invites all who are willing to come and eat at His banqueting table. This is, by far, the most important meal you will ever eat. May you find new life today in Christ’s act of living worship, sheltered under the blood of the Lamb.

You are cordially invited to attend living worship with me tonight at 7pm at Faith Church, 2950 Droste Road, St. Charles, MO. We will break bread together as we remember the sacrifice of our 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.

Real life experience

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:48-49 KJV

48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. And the word of the Lord was published throughout all the region.

Acts 13:48-49 The Message

When the non-Jewish outsiders heard this, they could hardly believe their good fortune. All who were marked out for real life put their trust in God—they honored God's Word by receiving that life. And this Message of salvation spread like wildfire all through the region.

Good morning!

I was checking the employment opportunities online today and noticed that in almost every job description, the words, “experience necessary” were printed in bold type. Many of the open positions go as far to identify the number of years of experience they are looking for in a qualified applicant. I wondered as I read the ads, why they do not place greater emphasis on “life experience.”

If you have a beating heart, then you unequivocally possess life experience. Our lives are unique, impacted by our family, environment, geographical location, and the culture in which we are raised. Yet, we all share a commonality in our life’s breath. We all bleed, we cry, we hurt, and we love. We learn how to overcome insurmountable obstacles; we find a way to care and share with our extended families, even while caring for ourselves. We understand the importance of our interpersonal relationships and learn how to choose our friends wisely, especially after experiencing a disappointment. Growing in grace helps folks admit their weaknesses and focus on their inherent strengths; grace allows us to cut each other a little slack. I think life experience is an important part of who we are and whose we are, and it should count for something, wouldn’t you agree?

How do you find real life? Many folks believe real life is attained through the things we possess, or the lifestyles we keep. Take away an executive’s blackberry and suddenly, all life seems lost without his contacts and appointment times. Remove a name plate from the desk where someone sat at for fifteen years and suddenly, their identity seems lost in the whirlwind of a stark unemployment reality. What if real life for you consisted of scavenging for food to eat, a roof over your head, and help for extreme medical needs? If you are reading this blog, you probably have a computer within your possession. How many people in the world live without electricity to power such an expensive piece of equipment, much less have the necessities they need to live? What is real life? Is it possible for all to receive it?

A loving Father never denies His treasured possession a cup of real life. He offers His love freely to all who will accept His gift. For God so loved the world, He gave Jesus, His Only Son, that whoever would believe and receive Him, would inherit eternal life, real life! No matter who you are or where you live; it does not matter whether you have zero income or are listed in the top ten of the Fortune 500®, real life is a package deal, and its ready and waiting just for you. The Good News of Christ’s death and resurrection is that He is the real deal. He offers real life, not just to a certain class of people or culture. He offers real life to all of us who will receive Him today. You cannot purchase real life; you will not find what you are looking for in a cheap date or a pill bottle. Real life comes through life experience; we struggle and search for greater meaning, intrinsic value, self-worth, and the only One who can adequately fill our void is the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ.

Jesus came for all people, not just for His people, but for all people, everywhere. You see, I am a non-Jewish outsider, and today I find myself extraordinarily thankful for Christ’s gift of real life, eternal life, given to me. We honor the real life we’ve been given by receiving His gift with humble, grateful hearts. Real life is available – it is free for you and me! This is the kind of news that we should spread like wildfire! Won’t you help me share the Good News of Christ this week with the people you know and love?

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.

Light of life

Today’s Reading: Acts 13:47 NIV

47 [Paul said,] “For this is what the Lord has commanded us: ‘I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.’”

Isaiah 49:6 NIV

He says, “It is too small a thing for you to be my servant to restore the tribes of Jacob and bring back those of Israel I have kept. I will also make you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring my salvation to the ends of the earth.”

Good morning!

Palm branches are waving all over town. Folks stood in the streets of Jerusalem, waiting to welcome Jesus of Nazareth into their city. We see Him riding on the back of a donkey, as folks huddle together, trying to catch a glimpse of the great teacher and healer. His fame had spread throughout all of Galilee like wild fire. The curious, the sick, the scoffers and mere spectators lined the city streets like paparazzi, shouting “Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord!”

What a day this must have been for the people of Jerusalem. The light of life had come; yet, in the frenzy of a ticker tape parade, many folks didn’t see it! There was a great current of expectation moving through the crowds. The sick, lame and lost – all of them hoping for a miraculous, supernatural healing. To finally be set free of the bondage of their physical limitations was more than they could imagine. To be free to live life in wholeness of heart, leaving their lives of emotional distress behind was their heartfelt prayer. Would they finally see their miracle as they looked in the eyes of the one riding into their city? Could Jesus of Nazareth offer them more than they could ever possibly hope for?

Jesus came into the city to fulfill His Father’s plan for all people. He longed to see His people healed from the sins eating them alive. More than anything else, Jesus wanted them to know and love His Father, their Father - our Father. He already knew how His life would end and begin again. Jesus could have healed them all in an instant; yet, they would never fully understand the real gift of salvation without His ultimate sacrifice. How His heart must have wept that day, on a day like no other, when the light of life rode into the city and the people could not see Him for who He truly is.

Christ fulfilled every prophetic word; every promise made. He is the light of the world and in Him is no darkness at all. We have His Word that He will return one day soon to reign in the Holy City, forever. His kingdom of light and life will never end. When Jesus returns, will you be standing in the street waiting? Jesus will give you a brand new life right here and right now. All you have to do is ask Him to forgive you, to wash you; ask Him to come into your heart 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.

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.