Resolving Conflict

Today's Reading: Acts 15:5-6 NIV
5 Then some of the believers who belonged to the party of the Pharisees stood up and said, "The Gentiles must be circumcised and required to obey the law of Moses." 5 The apostles and elders met to consider the question.

Good morning!

When our children were younger, we used to struggle with differences of opinion and hot topic issues. Do you have a specific method for resolving conflict in your own home? We would often call family meetings at the kitchen table, especially when something of great importance had become a source of disagreement. We worked to create a safe space where everyone could express themselves on a particular question or situation, and then make a decision on how to move forward together. When emotions run high, it is often difficult to keep the safe space open to honest communication. I have often seen it crumble away more times than I can count. It is a hard thing to resolve conflicts within our own families, and quite often, someone walks away from the table frustrated with the group's ultimate decision. Even when we agree to disagree, it is critical for all to accept the overall decision of the group and abide in it. If we can somehow learn how to better deal with conflicts and differences of opinion in a healthy way within our own family units, we have a much better chance at learning how to do the same thing at work, in school, and even in church. Often, we see angry and disenchanted folks leave their places of employment or higher educational institutions because they can no longer support and abide by the decisions of the governing administration. The ironic thing about family units is that no matter what our differences are, we are yoked together in a strong cord of love. Every broken promise, any hurtful word can mend itself in love IF we are willing to let go of our hurts and let the Lord heal our families. God's plan for His children is as strong today as it was 2000 years ago. We are meant to be together forever, and no one should be left out of the circle. As a society, we can do a much better job learning how to respect and value each other, especially in times of disagreement.

The early church set a great example in resolving conflict. They didn't back away from the tough issues, ignore them, or refuse to speak to the pointed questions at hand. They allowed every voice to be heard, and prayerfully considered all opinions. Every four years in the United Methodist Church, a delegation is elected from each annual conference to attend a worldwide General Conference. One thousand delegates, half clergy and half laity meet to hear petitions and make recommendations to reject, adopt or amend, through humble acts of prayer, discernment and holy conferencing. The delegates strive to interpret and discern every issue raised at Conference. Having served on the 2008 delegation from Missouri, I can attest that not every delegate agreed on all the decisions made; yet, we find ourselves drawn together by Christ's precious blood. It is His love for all people that helps us better learn how to love each other unconditionally.

The early church model can teach us how to covenant together when addressing the deep seated issues we face today. Learning how to love each other the way Christ loves us is paramount in resolving conflicts. You and I are precious to the Lord. He loves us all so very much. Isn't it time we give unconditional love another try?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding
Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO
www.songofdeborah.com

_____________________________________
Copyright 2011, 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 email, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and website information intact with copied articles.

The Good News Brothers

Today's Reading: Acts 15:3-4 NIV
3 The church sent them on their way, and as they traveled through Phoenicia and Samaria, they told how the Gentiles had been converted. This news made all the brothers very glad. 4 When they came to Jerusalem, they were welcomed by the church and the apostles and elders, to whom they reported everything God had done through them.

Good morning!

I purchased a t-shirt from one of the many displays at the United Methodist Congress on Evangelism held in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina this month. The caption on the t-shirt front really caught my eye. It says, "John and Charles Wesley - The Good News Brothers" with a picture that somewhat resembles John and Charles in a Blues Brothers costume! The back of the shirt exclaims, "On a mission from God." As soon as the weather warms up here in the arctic tundra of Missouri, my friends from Faith Church St. Charles will see me wearing this t-shirt around town. John and Charles Wesley were responsible for igniting the Methodist movement in England, Europe and the United States during the mid-1700s. They knew how to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ around town in worship and song. If you have a chance, take a minute or two to read about John and Charles Wesley online. If you would like to know more, visit your local United Methodist Church, where you will find additional resources available which tell about the brothers' lives and beliefs.

At the Congress on Evangelism, I heard amazing stories of people from around the world, who were accepting Jesus Christ and having their lives totally transformed. I heard several pastors and teachers tell about changed lives in their communities and classrooms; my heart jumped for joy as they shared their stories and experiences of faith. We tend to dwell on all the bad stuff happening in our world and we sometimes forget how God continues to move in and through the people all around us. What an encouragement it is to hear some Good News for a change!

Paul and Barnabas were certainly the Good News brothers of their day. Everywhere they went, Paul stopped to share the faith stories with the community of faith and anyone else who would make time to listen. People were excited to hear of how the Holy Spirit was sweeping across the region, saving souls of both the Jewish tradition and Gentiles alike. When folks realized that God's love through Jesus Christ was meant for all people everywhere, the apostles' stories became a lifeline of hope and a source of healing to all who listened and believed. Good News travels fast!

How will the Lord choose to use you today in sharing a little Good News with the people in your life? Ask Him to help you share stories of faith-filled living with everyone you know. Like the Good News brothers, you too can be a bearer of Good News, just like John, Paul, Charles and Barnabas! (And you thought I was going to say, "George and Ringo." Gotcha!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding
Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO
www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________
Copyright 2011, 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 email, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and website information intact with copied articles.

The thing about salvation...

Today's Reading: Acts 15:1-2 NIV
1 Some men came down from Judea to Antioch and were teaching the brothers: "Unless you be circumcised, according to the custom taught by Moses, you cannot be saved." 2 This brought Paul and Barnabas into sharp dispute and debate with them. So Paul and Barnabas were appointed, along with some other believers, to go up to Jerusalem to see the apostles and elders about the question.

Good morning!

In the 1982 blockbuster hit film, E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial, the lovable alien E.T. pointed a gnarly glowing finger at his little friend Gertie and said in a long, monotone voice, "Be good." There's something to be said about being good, choosing to do the right thing. After all, young Elliott saw his strange new friend as someone he needed to protect from a harsh reality. Elliott took it upon himself to provide shelter and protection for a stranger in need. Isn't that what we are taught to do - to take care of each other, and provide for the least, the last, and the lost ones in our world today?

There are some really great people out there. On many of our evening news broadcasts, there are five minute segments, like NBC's "Making a Difference," where we learn about some folks who do incredibly unselfish acts simply to reach out and help others. Is it enough to be good, or is there something else necessary to turn God's all-seeing, all-knowing eye?

For centuries, the Jewish tradition taught their people to strictly follow the laws of Moses. For them, it wasn't just a matter of being good or doing the right thing; it was an imperative in order to receive God's favor and mercy in the last days. God gave His commandments for right living and directed His people how to live out their days. Folks who chose to step outside of the boundaries God had drawn were punished for their sins. The act of circumcision identified every male Jew as a follower and keeper of the laws of Jahweh. To abolish that custom and time-honored tradition seemed unacceptable to the God-fearing Jews in Antioch. Do you believe that one must be circumcised to be recognized by God as His precious child? Does wearing a cross around one's neck today, or having a Christian symbol tattooed on one's body help the Lord identify who His children really are?

I can only imagine the kinds of arguments that erupted in Antioch that day, as Paul and Barnabas arrived. It probably sounded a lot like some of the conversations I listened to at the 2008 United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth, Texas. Passionate people with positional statements of what they believe, why they believe it, and why others should too, can set the tone for a spirited, heated debate. There are just some things that must be discussed. Paul and Barnabas were appointed along with some others, to go back to Jerusalem and ask the other apostles and elders of the church about their burning question. As United Methodist Christians all over the world prepare for the 2012 General Conference, may we be compelled into daily prayer over the burning issues that will be discussed at length and acted upon at this meeting.

Paul and Barnabas had experienced God's amazing grace when Jesus Christ became Lord and Savior of their lives. They knew that while the teachings of Moses were very important and should not be simply set aside, that submitting to the rules alone was not enough to save. All of us can try to follow the rules or morality, of our country and community. We should all try to do good where ever we can, and we can wear our symbols of faith as evidence of what we believe. And yet, this would never be enough to gain salvation. The law cannot save in and of itself. It is only by grace through faith in Jesus Christ that we can receive full salvation. And when you receive it, your life will never be the same.

So what thing must you let God have before you can fully accept Jesus Christ as your personal Lord and Savior? Jesus said, "For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved." John 3:16-17 NKJV.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding
Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO
www.songofdeborah.com

________________________
Copyright 2011, 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 email, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and website information intact with copied articles.

Opening the Door of Faith

Today's Reading: Acts 14:27-28 NIV
27 On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how He had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles. 28 And they stayed there a long time with the disciples.

Good morning!

Yesterday my spirit was renewed as I sat with a fellow lay speaker at the hospital, waiting for word about his wife, who was having cancer surgery. We met last spring at a United Methodist lay speaking training event held at Faith Church in St. Charles. He and his wife were both taking classes together, and I was blessed to make the acquaintance of this family. We've kept up with each other and our respective local churches activities online since meeting last year. They were able to attend a summer lay ministry seminar in Fayette, Missouri, which I had missed. The keynote speaker was Dr. Tom Albin of the Upper Room Ministries in Nashville, Tennessee. During our visit yesterday, I was able to tell my friend that I actually did get to meet Dr. Albin and hear him speak on his Wesleyan studies last week at the United Methodist Congress on Evangelism in South Carolina. It is a good thing to always compare notes. We can learn so much from each other as we hear the stories of how the love of Jesus impacts our daily lives.

The Lord has given my friends an extra measure of peace at this difficult time. This hospital visit could have been a very frightening experience. I am always amazed by the hope Christ gives to all who have chosen to place their lives in His loving care. Concerns and worries were talked about but not focused on. These emotions had no hold upon my friend's heart. He was able to look beyond the situation and see His Savior right there, holding his hand. Christ's love frees us to rejoice even in the darkest times of our lives. Together, we can find His hope. We cannot help but be encouraged by the love of God.

When Paul and Barnabas arrived in Antioch, after suffering great personal tribulation, they were gathered into the arms of their community of faith, who loved and encouraged them. Paul and Barnabas did not focus their hearts on fear, but fixed their eyes upon the Lord, the author and giver of new life. They rejoiced together that God had somehow used them to spread the saving message of Jesus Christ with the people in Attalia. They were having such a good time, they chose to stay there, to rest and be refreshed in the fellowship of believers.

If you are going through a rough patch right now in your life, there is one place where you can turn to find hope and help in time of need. Your local church is right there in your neighborhood, just around the corner from where you live. Maybe you've even driven by the building a thousand times and thought out loud, "I wonder what is going on inside those walls?" Isn't it time you come and experience it for yourself? Your local church is filled with folks just like you, who have found Christ's peace that passes all human understanding. And that's pretty amazing stuff when you consider the world in which we live today.

Won't you open the door of faith this weekend and worship with me at Faith Church - St. Charles - I look forward to meeting you there.

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 email, 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.

Hands

Today's Reading: Acts 6:6-7a NIV
6 They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them. 7 So the word of God spread.

Good morning!

It would seem that my hands are not what they used to be. When I was a young woman, I could tackle an arpeggio at a tempo of 110 without skipping a beat. I could hold a violin up high on my left shoulder and remain perfectly comfortable while in a three hour rehearsal. My fingers moved and beautiful music filled the air. As I recall, there was no debilitating pain; only joy in the journey. I knew this special gift was from God, He gave me hands to use as I praised Him in worship and song.

Once upon a time I typed 121 words per minute with less than two errors. Fortunately for me, that particular timed test occurred while I was interviewing for a job! My poor posture never kept me from finishing a legal brief or preparing correspondence for signature. I took great care in my work product; for perfection is always the goal.

My hands don't work the way they used to. They are scarred from surgeries where doctors cut tight and irritated tendons, freeing nerve endings and muscles for renewed service. The end result was the belief that I would once again feel the tips of my fingers and the constant burning would miraculously disappear. A new strength would return where it no longer existed. Repositioning the ulnar nerves at the elbows would allow for wretched muscle spasms to cease; yet, only time would truly tell. How long does real healing take? Can God still use broken and scarred hands?

The disciples, prior to knowing Jesus, relied upon their hands to provide food and shelter for their families. Fishermen spent endless hours in their boats, pulling ropes and catching fish with bare hands. Tax collectors used their hands to collect funds from every person living in their city. Carpenters bore splinters and cuts as they turned dead pieces of wood into tables, chairs and crosses for the Roman government. Who would have thought that Jesus could transform their scarred and imperfect hands into healing machines, where one touch would transform a humble heart into a called servant? Broken, imperfect and bruised hands were changing lives by the power of the Holy Spirit. God was doing a new thing in each of them. God can do new things in you and me too, if we will simply ask Him to help us.

It was tough, last spring, when I stopped writing devotional messages online. My father-in-law had just passed away, and my mother-in-law was in need of receiving immediate hospice care. My mother was living with us, recovering from a fall she had taken in the spring. We created a "mother-in-law hall" in our home, where both of my mothers could have a place to rest and be cared for. It was during this time that my physician suggested I give my hands a rest! At his instruction, I let go of the things I could. I stopped trying to play piano. I stopped typing devotional messages. God used my broken hands to praise Him in a very different way. My weakened hands became the caring hand for my mothers. I prepared food every day for them to eat. I held their hands at the table while we prayed and watched the birds frolick in the yard. I helped them button their night shirts and tucked them into bed each night. You see, when we learn to let go of our familiarity, God can take a gift we may not even recognize and draw it out of us in new, life-giving ways.

My mother became stable enough to move to assisted living not far from our home. My sister helped me relocate her that summer. I know where I get my fighting spirit from. My mother is doing remarkably well and she teaches me what it means to push on, every single day. My mother-in-law remained in our care until the Lord Jesus Christ returned to bring her into His everlasting arms in August. Every day was a treasured gift, and I marveled at what God was able to do with my imperfect hands.

How is God using your hands for Kingdom work? It may be a simple as sending a card or note to someone who is ill, or hurting. Maybe He will use your hands to cook a simple meal for some really hungry college students. Did you know that feeding your family is a ministry in and of itself? Maybe God will choose to use your hands to call another life into full-time ministry. The Word of God spreads when we allow Him to use our broken, imperfect hands.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding
Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO
www.songofdeborah.com

______________________________
Copyright 2011, 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 email, 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.

Graduation day

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:26 NIV

²⁶ From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed.

Good morning!

I enjoy looking at all the graduation photos being posted online. Graduation Day is such a great way to celebrate the completion of many years of hard work. What an accomplishment! Congratulations to all who are receiving your diplomas and certificates of achievement! Well done!

There is nothing more affirming than completing a project, no matter how trivial that project may be. Just recently, I committed to cleaning out and reorganizing my bedroom closet. No one really knew about my cleaning expedition, until I heard my six year old granddaughter open the closet door and exclaim, “Wow Nanny, this is really clean!” She was playing hide-and-seek with her little brother, totally unaware that I had made a special provision just for them! One simple word of praise can go a long way for someone who has tried to make a little extra room for another.

Today, our family will celebrate the gift of life as we remember with love my father-in-law, Clayton. He has now accomplished his life’s purpose on earth and we will forever treasure him in our hearts forever. My father-in-law had a clear vision for what one day would be. Even though his eyes were growing dim with age and disease, Pop glimpsed a plan for all the generations who would follow after him. He has now graduated to life eternal in the Lord Jesus Christ. Pop was committed to the grace of God in completing his life’s call.

I believe Paul and Barnabas had to feel some sense of accomplishment, careful not to take personal credit for the many healings and conversions happening all around them. They knew that in every miracle, every newly saved soul, there is God’s gift of grace in and through Christ Jesus. Yet, it had to be humbling to know He would choose to use their imperfect hands to help spread His Word throughout the nations. Looking back at their first missionary journey, Paul and Barnabas had to feel affirmed while receiving Christ’s vision for what would one day be for all people, everywhere.

We celebrate all of life’s big accomplishments together, praising our Lord Jesus Christ for His gift that makes life worth living. He has made room for all who will humble their hearts, repent of their sin and daily seek His face. We can now come into the presence of the Father with joy, because of Christ’s work on the cross; you can be transformed today, right now! This is the time to invite Jesus Christ to become Lord of your life; let Him sweep out the cobwebs of sin and shame buried deep inside. Let Jesus show you what clean can really be! Jesus will change you from the inside out, helping you complete every good work, as you commit yourself daily by the grace of God. May you find yourself standing before the Lord on your eternal Graduation Day, hearing Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your Master’s happiness!”

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 dance master

Today’s Reading: John 11:25-26 NIV

²⁵ Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies, ²⁶ and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?”

Good morning!

My father-in-law received his new birth into life eternal yesterday. He passed as so many of us hope to – sleeping soundly in his bed next to his wife of sixty-five years, curled up underneath warm blankets. I couldn’t help but thank the Lord that he had not fallen down or suffered any broken any bones. It is never easy losing the people we love the most, and early this morning, I am wide awake, reliving many wonderful moments spent with Pop throughout the years.

When I was fifteen years old, I think Pop was the tallest man I knew. Standing over six feet tall, Pop towered over me. I’m not sure that Pop was wild at first about me dating his son, but when it came time to go to Jeff’s senior prom, it was Pop who volunteered to teach me how to do the two-step. I learned to waltz to Big Band music playing on their eight-track tape deck in his study. I don’t think I embarrassed Jeff too much at senior prom, since he decided to continue the dance with me all these years. Pop was a great dance instructor, indeed. The last time I danced with Pop was on the church parking lot just a few months ago. You see, a great instructor does not need music or a ball room floor to display his vocational gift. One cannot help but want to leave worship dancing and singing! It seemed so natural to do a little two step on the black top under the shadow of the Faith Church steeple.

Pop was a great lead. He gently would take my hand in his, and show me, by example, how to move gracefully across the dance floor. If you know me well, then you know my middle name is not Grace, and I struggle with gliding; I’m actually much more adept at tripping and falling. Through the years, it was Pop who was there to pick me up whenever I fell down. His willingness to listen and encourage me, especially through some really tough times, is a gift I will treasure forever. He may have been my father-in-law by marriage, but I am proud to have called him Daddy.

Pop’s life example and servant leadership mirrored the example of our Heavenly Father. I’m pretty sure he took his life’s lead from Him. A good provider, a stern but loving disciplinarian, Pop possessed a kind and humble heart. When Pop chose love, he chose it for a life time. He made life’s dance look easy, and we all know it is not. The last few years of Pop’s life were a struggle. He recovered from some very serious bone breaks that may have kept many in the confines of a wheel chair or walker. Pop never gave up; determined to dance again, he partied with reckless abandon at his granddaughter Katie’s wedding. He had worked hard that fall in physical therapy just so that he could dance the night away with his daughters and granddaughters that night. I have several photographs of Pop in my scrapbook, doing the monster mash with his daughter Linda and granddaughter Courtney. I laugh out loud every time I look at these wonderful pictures, honoring the memory of the dance master.

I would have to say that my most cherished recollection with Pop was a moment of faith sharing, as we sat together in the church fellowship hall, listening to a group discussion of Mel Gibson’s “Passion of the Christ.” Pop raised his voice to speak while tears streamed down his cheeks. This was remarkable because Pop did not cry in public. He said, “I felt compelled to see this film because I knew if Jesus could suffer that way and die for me, the least I could do is to see it for myself.” I know it is his sure faith in Jesus Christ that helped him finish life’s dance, and begin the new song that will last for all eternity. He is doing the two-step with His Savior, and this morning, I can hear their heels clicking together as they laugh out loud in unending joy, gliding along the streets of gold.

Jesus says, “I am the resurrection and the life. He who believes in me will live, even though he dies; and whoever lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” We can all take a dance lesson today from Pop. Let the Lord take the lead; for He will guide you every step of the way, if you will choose to believe.

Thank you Pop, for teaching me how to dance.

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.

Post-It® note Preaching

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:24-25 NIV

²⁴ After going through Pisidia, [Paul and Barnabas] came into Pamphylia, ²⁵ and when they had preached the word in Perga, they went down to Attalia.

Good morning!

I asked one of my Pastors if he would send me a copy of his sermon notes on The Great Commission (Matthew 28:18-20). Chuckling under his breath, Pastor intimated that his sermon notes generally consist of a few scribbles on a piece of paper and some well placed Post-It® notes in his Bible. How did we ever learn to preach before the creation of the Post-It® note? Post-It® notes are pieces of stationery with a strip of adhesive on the back, designed to temporarily stick on documents. They come in a wide variety of colors, shapes and sizes; they can easily be attached and removed without leaving permanent marks or residue. The Post-It® note is one great way to preserve Scripture and keep track of your sermon notes all at the same time.

My husband would probably prefer I use Post-It® notes in my Bible instead of scribbling notes and highlighting passages of Scripture with pens and colored highlighters. His Bibles are kept in pristine condition. The binding on my Bibles are often broken and the pages become loose because I write in them all the time. I sure hope the Lord will forgive me for being so hard on His Word.

I would imagine that the preaching of Paul and Barnabas in Galatia was compelling in part, because of the way in which they presented the Gospel. While it is certainly possible that Paul used notes to convey the Gospel, as he was an avid writer himself, I would guess he gave his personal testimony without any need for sermon notes or a detailed outline. He did not have artificial amplification to carry his voice into the crowd. The convictions of his heart coupled with the Holy Spirit power carried his voice in a way that all who gathered could hear. He had no computer, big screen, or PowerPoint® software to enhance his presentation. Folks were simply glued to the holy glow across Paul’s face, as he spoke about the love of the Savior. There are times when I think we rely far too much on our own human effort when speaking God’s Word. If we know what we know because the Son of God has personally impacted the direction of our lives, we must know that He will speak in and through us, if we simply get out of the way and allow Him to use us as instruments of His will.

I understand the need for Post-It® note preaching, because I personally know how hard it is to keep my own thoughts on track while sharing God’s Word with others. Yet, I need to learn how to rely less upon my own simple, finite thoughts and fully lean into God’s Holy Word. I am convinced that our personal witness is the most powerful way we can convey God’s love through Jesus Christ. How has the Lord changed your life? If I were to ask you to tell me about how you know Jesus, what would you say? Put your notes down, look me in the eye, and tell me your story.

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.

Sincere faith

Today’s Reading: 2 Timothy 1:4-6 NIV

⁴Recalling your tears, I long to see you, so that I may be filled with joy. ⁵I have been reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. ⁶For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands.

Isaiah 26:3 KJV

³Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.

Good morning!

My mother has given me some very special gifts through the years, and none of them were purchased at the store. Oh, she loved to shop and buy our family beautiful things we have enjoyed through the years, but those monetary gifts pale in comparison to the quality gifts we’ve received: her time and talents, incredibly funny moments and her daily sense of humor. I think often about the sweet inner peace she possesses, and I know from whom she receives it. That, in and of itself, is a timeless and precious gift.

Yesterday, Mom and I stopped at our local Walgreens® to purchase a few things on our way home from the doctor’s office. I picked up a hair net for Mom to use at night. Every week, she visits my friend Sammi, who works at a hair salon not far from our home. Sammi does an amazing job making my mother look beautiful. She washes and rolls her hair, teases and sprays it just so, hoping it will last her through the weekend, especially for worship. Mom spends a lot of time during the day cat napping, and, quite often, her hair gets messed up while she sleeps.

Last night, Mom went to put on the hair net and accidentally picked up her arm sling instead. Without her glasses, Mom could not figure out how to apply the hair net “sling” to her head. She worked on it for quite some time before finally giving up and going to bed. This morning, she told me how disgusted she was with her brand new hairnet. I believe she used the term “worthless” as she shook the arm sling in her fist, demanding I take it back to the store for a full refund. I tried hard not to laugh at her as I walked back to the bedroom and picked up the hairnet on her changing table. “Is this what you tried to put on?” I asked. “No! I thought that was my underwear!” she quickly replied. A moment of dark confusion crossed her face before she burst into hysterical laughter. “I do hope you are writing all this down, dear,” she said, looking at me through a teary grin. I told her not to worry, I had it covered. We sat together at the breakfast table, laughing over the arm sling/hairnet story. Mom’s ability to laugh over something that might have otherwise terribly upset her is a gift from God above. She knows that life is very confusing right now and yet, she handles every situation with grace and dignity. It makes me realize just how beautiful she is inside and out, and how someday, I hope to be just like her.

Mom’s sincere faith has now become the faith I hold. She has faced many difficult moments with the quiet confidence of Mary, who chose to ponder all things in her heart. Mom worked hard like Martha, and sat at the feet of the Master, listening carefully, like Mary. She loved to sew like Priscilla, and was once the finest cook in our neighborhood, just like Lydia. She learned life lessons well from her own mother and grandmother, and all these things she has passed down to my sister and to me. In the twilight of her life, Mom has bloomed into the unique, fragrant perennial the Lord created her to be. Even in sheer moments of confusion, Mom knows that her Redeemer lives! Jesus gives her the courage and strength to master every moment with a smile. And Mom knows she does not face tomorrow alone.

You may be missing your Mom today. Maybe you never got to know your mother and you wonder what her life had been like. Maybe your childhood memories are not so pleasant. There are no perfect families in this world, and all of us struggle with experiences and painful memories we would like to somehow wipe out away. Regardless of your situation, make time today to think about and honor a woman who has invested her life in you, whether she is your birth mother, an adopted mother, or simply a great friend. Take time to thank the Lord for her character and love, for it is that gift which draws us closer to each other and to Christ. We can learn much from looking closely at a mother’s heart.

Happy Mother’s Day, Mom.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2010, Deb Spaulding

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

Pray today!

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:23 NIV

²³ Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.

Luke 6:12-13a (NIV)

¹² One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. ¹³ When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.

Good morning!

On the first day of class, my college professors would pass out a syllabus covering a brief outline of the course curriculum, highlighted topics of discussion, homework assignments and test dates, as well as ethical warnings as required by the University. That syllabus became my map for the semester. I often made several copies of the syllabus, just in case I might misplace it. I kept the original in my course notebook, placing a copy of the outline with each book, for ease in identifying the week’s reading assignments. I would transfer the due dates from the syllabus to my date book, highlighting the test dates in yellow. I knew when to expect the next examination, for I did not want to walk into class and be surprised with a test I had not adequately prepared for.

I learned how to organize my work by trial and error. There were times when I did not pay as close attention to the syllabus as I should have. I missed a couple of assignment deadlines, which adversely affected my overall semester grade. I walked into class one evening, not realizing a mid-term examination was going to be given. Because I had not studied the material in depth earlier that week, I was unprepared to adequately answer the questions asked. It pays to look at the syllabus in advance and come to class prepared. Why waste the time you’ve been given to complete the assignments? The one thing none of us can get back is the gift of time. How we choose to spend the time we have been given is critical to our overall learning experience.

Jesus Christ set the bar at how he chose to spend His personal time. He traveled throughout Galilee, healing the sick and preaching the Good News. At the end of the day, Jesus needed time alone with the Father to prepare for the many decisions tomorrow would bring. Jesus would often go to a secluded place spending the night alone, on His knees, yielding to His Father’s will in prayer. Jesus chose not to go anywhere or do anything without first seeking out His Father’s heart. Prayer became His life’s syllabus. Would the direction of your life change if you followed Christ’s example by seeking out the Father’s heart on every matter, spending precious time with Him on your knees in prayer?

Jesus asked for the Father’s help to discern who of His disciples should be made Apostles. Likewise, Paul and Barnabas only appointed elders of the church after seeking the Father’s will in prayer and fasting. They chose to implement Christ’s life example using their time wisely in every daily decision. They chose not to show up for the work of ministry totally unprepared. They asked the Father for His will and then chose to follow His lead.

Let this be the day you choose a different direction. Do you have important decisions to make? Are you concerned about your own life, or the life of someone you love? Make time to pray today about the work of tomorrow. Stop wasting time – choose to use the Master’s syllabus! Do not spend another minute unprepared to successfully complete your life’s work. Pray 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.

Standing in the gap for faith

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:21-22 NIV

²¹ They preached the good news in that city and won a large number of disciples. Then they returned to Lystra, Iconium and Antioch, ²² strengthening the disciples and encouraging them to remain true to the faith. “We must go through many hardships to enter the kingdom of God,” they said.

Good morning!

I am grateful beyond words when I think of all the courageous men and women who put their lives on the line every day to defend and protect people. I knew there was something serious happening somewhere last night when my husband’s cell phone kept blinking on and off. Technology is so advanced now that, quite often, when a late breaking news flash comes across the wire, I am well aware of it even before I get up to check the web for email updates. I am not fond of waking up to flashing lights on the night stand; on the other hand, the incessant blinking prompts me to pray, because I know there is someone else out there who is not sleeping. They are up and running, working tirelessly, to protect all of us from harm.

I hope you’ve never had to face true hardship. In our human struggle for survival, we learn and grow from the adversities we experience. I’ve yet to be homeless or hungry, but am well aware that it could happen in just a mere matter of seconds. There are hundreds of thousands of families worldwide who have lost everything in the wake of hurricanes, fires, tornadoes and flooding. Our world’s economy seems to be crumbling before our very eyes, causing a human crisis greater than anything I’ve ever known before. People are diligently working to provide adequate food and shelter for families who have nowhere else to turn. Selfless souls continue to work tirelessly in food banks and church soup kitchens, providing meals for the hungry. Large quantities of clothing, food and medical supplies are being gathered and shipped to neighboring countries trying to heal from catastrophic disasters. People are reaching out, helping people everywhere. Many are risking their own lives to make a difference for someone else. Can you see the warning signs flashing right before your eyes? What can you personally do to ease the pain of another hurting heart today?

The Apostles were very concerned over the welfare and discipleship of new converts to the Way. So much so, they were willing to return to the places where they had been tortured and nearly put to death, to ensure the continued growth and teaching of those who had placed their lives into the hands of Jesus. They willingly returned to these cities, bringing His Word of encouragement and hope to those who desperately needed to hear it. Paul knew he would risk great hardship for the Gospel, yet never hesitated to protect and defend the early Church. He gave his whole heart to the work of our Lord, caring more about others than he did for himself. Paul was willing to lay down his life to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ to hungry and homeless souls who needed to meet the Savior. Are you willing to set aside your life so that someone else might experience the love of Jesus today? Who stood in the gap for you, when you took that first step of faith?

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.

Dying to be heard

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:19-20 NIV

¹⁹ Then some Jews came from Antioch and Iconium and won the crowd over. They stoned Paul and dragged him outside the city, thinking he was dead. ²⁰ But after the disciples had gathered around him, he got up and went back into the city. The next day he and Barnabas left for Derbe.

I Timothy 4:16 NIV

¹⁶ Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers.

Good morning!

You probably haven’t figured this out yet, but I tend to be a rather opinionated person. This character trait gets me into trouble a lot! Do you hold strong beliefs in your heart? Is there something you refuse to waiver on, even if it means you may get nailed for it? Often, when I feel the need to speak up, I get tongue tied or succumb to a sudden brain freeze. What is it about our own fears of rejection that may stifle us from sharing deep convictions of faith with people who may not agree?

We are all born into this world as innocent babies; we do not get to choose our parents, the culture in which we are raised, or the country where we live. We have been given minds to think and hearts that beat; we are united by the blood pulsing through our veins. We breathe and move and we learn by the living examples of others. Our traditions and culture leads us to base conclusions of faith upon our own personal experience. Opinions are formed early on, in large part, by what we are exposed to in life as little children. Is it possible to see beyond what we’ve come to know, and potentially grasp hold of a greater Truth? What would it take for you to be willing to change your mind?

Paul got stoned for saying what he believed. Because of Paul’s humanness, he must have felt some fear. He knew he would be openly rejected to the point of being tortured and even killed for his strong, unwavering doctrine of faith. It is an amazing thing to see the life of someone who has had been truly converted. Paul was relentless in preaching about the person he, at one time, persecuted with all his being. If Jesus Christ had not personally appeared to Paul on the Damascus road, Paul’s beliefs could not have changed so dramatically. It often takes a close, personal encounter to see life from a totally different perspective. Human hearts can change instantly, when we meet the Master face to face.

As we journey along the path, we must be very careful to filter and sort fact from fiction, able to see and understand Truth for what it is. The Jews who came to stone Paul held strong convictions. They saw this man as someone trying to destroy the truth of Scripture as they knew it. He was, in their eyes, a blasphemer, a liar, and, according to their traditions, Paul deserved to die. Ironically, Paul understood their sentiments better than they did. For he once believed what they believed, until Jesus Christ came and changed his hardened heart. They left Paul for dead; his body must have been crushed and lifeless for the men to walk away believing he was no longer alive. What a miracle it was, when Paul got up and walked back into the city, well enough to journey on. How could they not believe in Jesus after witnessing such an incredible miracle?

It is important to know in whom you believe and why you believe. Be prepared at all times to share the faith Christ has birthed in your heart, ready to defend and protect that which brings new life, so that you can avoid getting sucked into a web of false teachings and beliefs. Some may try to tell you that the way you live is far more important than the convictions of heart you hold. I believe we must lay our fears aside and be willing to tell others about Jesus, by the words we speak and the lives we live. For if we refuse to share our doctrine for fear of rejection, we have failed the One who willingly laid down His life to redeem us forever from sin and death.

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 color of new life

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:16-18 NIV

¹⁶ In the past, He let all nations go their own way. ¹⁷ Yet He has not left Himself without testimony. ¹⁸ Even with these words, they had difficulty keeping the crowd from sacrificing to them.

Good morning!

After what I would consider to be one of the most difficult winter seasons of my life, I have been absolutely awed by the beauty of new life this spring. The colors of spring are more brilliant to me than ever before. No one does green like God. It is the Lord who has saved His very best for last, as I watch in wonder at the beginning of a whole new season.

Every year, I am amazed by the climbing clematis vines on the anniversary trellis Jeff installed for me on our twenty-fifth wedding anniversary. I always cut the vine back to the ground after the first frost. By then, all of the blooms have faded and quite often, its leaves have crumbled off the vine. We mow it over, and place a fresh layer of mulch to protect its tender root system throughout the cold winter months. One would never guess that this vine could return year after year with such splendor and lasting beauty. Out of no where, deep in the cold, hard earth, new life begins to well up and sprout. Within a few short weeks, the vine has literally taken over our trellis, with brand new growth and big, beautiful purple flowers. This morning, I went outside to count its blooms. There are over fifty flowers opened and just about as many are waiting in the wings. The sparrows love to sit in its shade; occasionally, we get a nest or two lodged within the shelter of its foliage.

I have nothing to do with the rebirth of this beautiful plant year after year. I tend to it, but new life can only come from the One who gives it; the Master Gardener. He does not leave Himself without testimony. How can we not see Him in the beauty of His creative work? When you hold a newborn baby in your arms for the very first time, are you not seeing the face our Lord smiling back at you? When you witness the colors of spring after a long, cold winter, can you not sense the love of the Father for His children?

The greatest gift of new life was given when the Father gave His Son, Jesus Christ, for the world’s redemption. Whenever someone gives their heart to the Lord, a brand new life is birthed deep down inside. We may not see the beauty of the vine at first, but with time and tender care, roots begin to take hold and blossom in the midst of a well-watered faith. How can we miss seeing the Master’s hand alive and at work in His beautiful garden of new life?

Do not look to human hands for the colors of life that surround you today. Stop, and give thanks to the only One who can take what was dead and make it rise up for all eternity. You have been given a great gift this spring. Thank the Father today for the colors of new life that have been birthed in you through our Lord, Jesus Christ.

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.

Worthless things

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:14-15 NIV

¹⁴ But when the apostles Barnabas and Paul heard of this, they tore their clothes and rushed out into the crowd, shouting: ¹⁵ “Men, why are you doing this? We too are only men, human like you. We are bringing you Good News, telling you to turn from these worthless things to the Living God, who made heaven and earth and sea and everything in them.”

Good morning!

Sometimes I get sidetracked. I really don’t mean to lose my focus. And I could blame it on my aging brain cells, but that wouldn’t be true. I’ve gotten sidetracked before; it simply has more to do with my own human weaknesses than the number of years I’ve lived.

I got sidetracked last week in my daughter’s closet. I was putting some of Rachel’s shoes away when I spotted a great pair of sandals on the shoe rack. They were really cute, and I suddenly found myself wanting a pair of sandals just like hers. I think this is called “coveting” on the Lord’s Big Ten! So I followed my sinful heart to the nearest shoe stores in St. Charles County and began searching for a pair of sandals that looked just like Rachel’s. My mother brought me back to a stark reality when she raised the question, “Don’t you have enough shoes in your closet already?” Of course, she was right. Mothers are always right. I do have plenty of shoes to wear. I just don’t have Rachel’s shoes. So why did I need yet another pair of sandals to put in my closet? The reality is this: I need to stop focusing on something relatively worthless and reconnect with what is truly important.

We human types tend to waste precious time and money on worthless things that may bring a bit of joy at first, but give no lasting value to our lives. How many toys have you bought that ended up in a storage bin in your basement or on top of a closet shelf gathering dust? Who will remember or even care about your all-time high score on the online computer game you seem to be glued to at night, when you are no longer playing it? How important is that $500 designer suit hanging in your closet when your neighbor is living just down the street with no roof over their head and no bed to sleep in? We tend to get side-tracked easily, wasting our resources petty, worthless things.

The town witnessed an amazing miracle but missed meeting the miracle maker! They thought it was Paul and Barnabas, coming to them as gods. Paul and Barnabas didn’t cause the miracle healing to happen. Paul and Barnabas introduced the lame man to Jesus Christ; He is the only one with the power and authority to heal! I would say the folks got a little sidetracked, but it didn’t take them long to get back on track. And that is where I find myself today – refocusing my heart and mind on the things that are much more important than a new pair of sandals sitting on my closet shelf.

Let go of the worthless and cling to the only One who makes living worth while. Give your heart to Jesus Christ today! There is plenty of room at the foot of the cross for you. Please join me today as we confess our sins and worship the Lord at Faith Church. He can take the worthless stuff of our lives and make life worth living, if you will simply invite Him 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.

Shaky pedestals

Today’s Reading: Acts 14:11-13 NIV

¹¹ When the crowd saw what Paul had done, they shouted in the Lycaonian language, “The gods have come down to us in human form!” ¹² Barnabas they called Zeus, and Paul they called Hermes because he was the chief speaker. ¹³ The priest of Zeus, whose temple was just outside the city, brought bulls and wreaths to the city gates because he and the crowd wanted to offer sacrifices to them.

Good morning!

I remember my first grade teacher, Miss Lane. She helped me learn to read, opening up a whole new world for me. I loved reading out loud to Miss Lane. She listened and helped me sound out every syllable, every vowel. In my young, seven year old mind, I was convinced that Miss Lane had super powers – she could do anything! I imagined she could float through the air on a cloud of fluffy white snow. She was, by far, the prettiest and smartest teacher ever. I wanted Miss Lane to teach me everything she knew. If only I could have stayed in her classroom all through grade school!

I wrote Miss Lane gushy thank you notes and frequently turned them in to her each week. My mother expressed concern to Miss Lane about my behavior at a mid-term parent-teacher conference. Miss Lane smiled and told my mother not to worry. She said that young children, when they are learning and growing, are sometimes filled with great gratitude for the one who is helping them. Miss Lane said that I was raised to have a grateful heart, and it showed. She suggested that my “thank you notes” were remarkably well written for a first grader and that Mother should encourage me to continue writing at home. Imagine that!

The people of Lystra were blown away by the healing of the lame man in their village. They became overly zealous for the two men who had come to share the Good News of Jesus Christ, and they mistakenly presumed these men were gods. What they did not yet understand is that Paul and Barnabas had no ability in and of themselves to heal anyone. Our ultimate healing comes through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone, and it is His healing power that was evidenced in town that day.

Christians help us grow in faith; our pastors and teachers, and covenant friends whom we meet along the way. When we receive a special gift from above, an anointing or healing, sometimes we mistakenly elevate the human heart helping us rather than our Lord. There is no one like Jesus, and once we know the original Gift Giver, we are less likely to raise each other up on shaky pedestals that will crumble and fall.

Be grateful to all who have helped you grow in grace; give thanks to the Only One who heals you perfectly from the inside out – our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

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.