Finding the One you seek

Today’s Reading: John 6:24-25 (NIV)

24 Once the crowd realized that neither Jesus nor His disciples were there, they got into the boats and went to Capernaum in search of Jesus. 25 When they found Him on the other side of the lake, they asked Him, “Rabbi, when did you get here?”

Memory Verse: 1 How lovely is Your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. (Psalm 84:1-2 NIV)

Good day!

Our children enjoyed playing hide and seek when they were little. Our son Benjamin loved to disappear, and he was a master at silence. Benjie was hard to find, because he didn’t giggle or make any noise. He never willingly gave away his secret place. He was small for his age, and could easily fit into tight places without much difficulty. Some of his favorite places to hide were underneath the sink, in between the bed frame and the wall, and inside his toy box, buried underneath his toys. Benjie liked to disappear just about the time we were ready to walk out the door for school, work, and especially for church. I remember some frustrating Mommy moments on Sunday mornings with that boy. I was making breakfast, dressing wee ones in church clothes, and packing a diaper bag filled to the brim with our Bibles, offering money and craft materials for Sunday school. It never failed - Benjie would invariably disappear on me. I had two of the three children strapped in their seat belts in the car, and Benjie would somehow manage to escape my line of vision. His little game did not make Sunday a fun day for me.

Payback can be a wonderful thing! Now Benjamin has two children of his own, Jett and Madison. Jett is just like his dad. He loves to play hide and seek. The biggest difference between Jett and Ben is that Jett is not quiet while hiding. He giggles, coughs and pretends to burp. Jett will do anything he can to help you find where he is hiding. Maddie has just started walking. It won’t be long before she will follow in her brother’s big footsteps. She is a tiny thing, and will have no difficulty stowing away in some of those hard-to-fit spaces. I find hide and seek much more enjoyable now as I watch my grandchildren play the game with their parents.

Jesus wasn’t trying to play hide and seek with the crowd. He knew they would seek Him out, because they had tasted the bread of life, and when that happens, people long for more. They revisited the mountainside where Jesus had fed them. They looked for the boat and wondered where He disappeared to. When they couldn’t find the Lord, they crossed the lake to Capernaum. Surprised to see their Master, they asked, “When did you get here?”

Jesus Christ has a way of showing up just when we least expect Him. As we seek a relationship with Christ through worship, He reveals His nature to us in surprising ways. Bishop Robert Schnase describes the mystery of worship in his book, “Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations.” He says: “God uses worship to transform lives, heal wounded souls, renew hope, shape decisions, provoke change, inspire compassion, and bind people to one another. God through Christ actively seeks relationship to us through worship.”

There are moments when I have sought the Lord’s face and wondered if He was trying to hide from me. Part of the wonder of experiencing worship is in knowing that the Lord is right there, waiting for me to come back to Him. Jesus never ceases to surprise me with His amazing grace.

The Lord is waiting for you to earnestly seek Him out. This is a great weekend to worship the Savior of the world. Our world needs to experience the love of Christ today. I’ll see you at Faith Church! We can share the mystery of His holy presence together in worship.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

We are looking for You in worship, dear Lord. Give us a taste of Your Living Word today, for it is only in You that our lives are made whole. Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Rowing hard, yet getting nowhere

Today’s Reading: John 6:19-21 (NIV)

19 When they had rowed three or three and a half miles, they saw Jesus approaching the boat, walking on the water, and they were terrified. 20 But He said to them, “It is I, don’t be afraid.” 21 Then they were willing to take Him into the boat, and immediately the boat reached the shore where they were heading.

Memory Verse: 1 How lovely is Your dwelling place, O Lord Almighty! 2 My soul yearns, even faints, for the courts of the Lord; my heart and my flesh cry out for the living God. (Psalm 84:1-2 NIV)

Good day!

During her childhood, my mother, along with her brothers and sisters, would take a dip in the spring-fed pond that emerged from the creek bed, nestled behind their farm. On sticky and hot Mississippi afternoons, they found great pleasure in swinging on a tire rope wrapped around the kudzu laced branches of the tall pine trees overlooking the deepest part of the pond. They would let go of the rope, falling feet first into the ice cold water. My mother never had a swimming lesson. Her brothers just threw her into the water and said, “Swim, sister!”

I remember the first time I learned how to tread water in the deep. My sister and I were taking swimming lessons at Bangert Park at the neighborhood pool. Our instructor was trying to teach us how to tread water. My treading looked more like the dog paddle. I was laughing out loud, while spinning around in the chlorinated water, my toes not touching the bottom of the pool. It was the first time I had ventured into the deep on my own. It was exhilarating, at first. It didn’t take long, however, to suddenly begin to feel fatigued. I was hoping my swimming coach would let me grab hold of her hand, but she kept moving backwards, saying, “Come on, you can do it.” “Do what?” I thought to myself. “Drown?” I was working really hard but my efforts alone were not taking me very far. I remember drinking a large a gulp of the pool water just as my head went under. It was at that moment that two strong hands lifted me up. I was coughing and spewing and very frightened, as my swim coach carried me back to the water’s edge. She said, “You did good! Now let me help you.”

We think we can do it on our own, launching out into the deep. We let go of the life line, jumping in feet first into the cold, brisk water of life. Off we go, totally pumped, and paddling as fast as we can toward the goal. About three to three-and half miles, minutes or years, depending upon how you do the math, you get just about half-way there, only to run out of energy. Beginning to sink, there is nothing else one can do except to reach out for the hands of the One who walks upon the water. We all need a life guard to lift us up and carry us safely back to shore.

The disciples were rowing hard, yet getting nowhere. They needed to be willing to let the Master into their boat, and once they did, they reached their destination, almost immediately. Stop trying to do it all by yourself. Why not choose to swim in the loving protection of Jesus Christ today? He is, after all, the Only life guard you will ever need.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Come into my boat today, dear Savior, and save me from myself. Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

A change of weather

Today’s Reading: John 6:18 (NIV)

18 A strong wind was blowing and the waters grew rough.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

The State of Missouri, where I live, is known for its unpredictable weather. We not only have four seasons, we can change at a moment’s notice. Two days ago, I left work at lunch to go home and check on my son. The temperature was a balmy 72°F, very odd for January weather, but I wasn’t complaining. I rolled down the car windows and cranked up the Ernie Haase and Signature Sound on the CD player. I figured my fellow commuters could all use a little extra blessing on this absolutely gorgeous day. Thirty minutes later, I was surprised to discover that the sun had disappeared behind some thick clouds and it had started to rain. The temperature had dropped 22° in a short window of time. I don't know why I was surprised. I should have grabbed my winter coat and hat. At least I did roll up the windows before I backed down the driveway. I was looking forward to a little spring delight. I know spring never comes before Groundhog Day. I guess it was just wishful thinking.

All afternoon, I could see the weather changing rapidly outside my office window. It changed from rain, to hail, to sleet, to snow and ice. When I left work around 6pm, an inch of ice had to scraped off the windshield before I could drive. The wind was wicked, blowing in mighty strong gusts. I had a hard time keeping the car on the road way. It’s no wonder I’ve had a head cold this week. That’s the thing about Missouri weather. If you don’t like it, just wait a few hours. It will change.

God uses dramatic changes in the weather of our lives to gain our undivided attention. We become so unaware of what is going on around us. And then, almost without warning, the winds pick up and the waters get rough, and we wonder, where did that come from? There is a strong and mighty wind blowing across our world today, and the waters are getting rough. We can sense the change in the atmosphere. It is time to pay attention to what is going on.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Thank you, Father, for sending high winds and rough waters. Please do whatever it takes to get my undivided attention. Melt my heart of stone and give me a heart of flesh. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Unlikely messenger

Today’s Reading: John 6:16-17 (NIV)

16 When evening came, his disciples went down to the lake, 17 where they got into a boat and set off across the lake for Capernaum. By now, it was dark and Jesus had not yet joined them.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

Jesus was hanging out at the mountain, in the holy presence of His Father. His disciples had waited all evening for Him to return. Not really understanding His character at all, they left the hillside where Jesus had fed thousands earlier that day, and got into a boat to cross the lake. Why did they choose to leave without the Lord? Did they get tired of waiting for Christ to return or were they just too tired to wait any longer? If they could just get back to home base, they could take a power nap, knowing Jesus would meet them there.

Oh Lord, I am such an unlikely messenger. You promised You would be with me always, even to the end of the age; I have Your Word on it. I too, have my moments when I behave just like Andrew, Peter, and the others. I become impatient and grow road weary, longing to simply get across that lake and go home.

Teach me to wait patiently for Your return. Help me gain a greater understanding of Your perfect nature – who You are and who I am in You. Remind me continually there are people out there who desperately need to experience Your healing power right now. Send me, Lord. I will be your unlikely messenger. I am willing to offer Your Word to the ones hovering in dark and lonely spaces today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Are you are missing someone you love? You are not alone! There is a Savior! He knows and understands your grief. He will not leave you or forsake you. Ask Jesus Christ to help you now.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Leaving nothing to waste

Today’s Reading: John 6:14-15 (NIV)

14 After the people saw the miraculous sign that Jesus did, they began to say, “Surely this is the Prophet who is to come into the world.” 15 Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make Him King by force, withdrew again to a mountain by Himself.”

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

Where do you go to find God?

The people were flocking to Jesus in mass numbers. Word of His arrival had spread quickly, and lots of hungry people showed up to listen and be fed. The most incredible part of Jesus’ miracle was not that he fed 5,000 men with a little boy’s five small barley loaves and two fish. He also fed all the women and children who were there. No, the best part of this miracle was the twelve baskets of leftovers that were collected after the meal ended. Nothing was left to waste. The miracle was in the leftovers. When you offer up to Jesus your life, He takes whatever resources you have and multiplies them beyond your wildest dreams. Andrew volunteered that little boy’s lunch to the Lord’s service. The child could have taken his lunch bag and run away, but he was willing to share what little he had with God. Can you imagine what God might do to multiply your offering if you were simply willing to share it with others?

Oh, what a lunch hour it was! People were eating soul food, the very bread of heaven, and how they longed for more! Even after their bellies were full, they did not want this Prophet to go. But Jesus knew their hearts. He recognized His need to spend time alone with the Father. So Jesus slipped out the back way, withdrawing to the mountain by Himself.

We can see God both in the giver and the gift. Where will you find God? Are you looking for Him right now? As we enter into His holy presence, remember that He will forever protect your soul in the cleft of the Rock. You are standing, this day, on holy ground.

Do not be afraid to offer up your gift to the Lord. He can multiply it for kingdom work, if you are willing to let Him use you. Go ahead! Take a peek at all those heavenly leftovers!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

All I have to offer You is me, dear Lord. Please take my gift and use it to feed hungry people with Your living Word. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Feeding the masses

Today’s Reading: John 6:5-6 (NIV)

5 When Jesus looked up and saw a great crowd coming toward Him, He said to Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” 6 He asked this only to test him, for He already had in mind what He was going to do.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

I remember many years ago, enjoying some wonderful Friday evening meals with our friends, Mel and Barb, at their home in St. Louis. In the mid-seventies, when plaid pants, wide ties, and bell-bottomed blue jeans were all the craze, this family would host get-togethers for their youth group in their home on Friday nights. There was always plenty to eat! Barb owned the biggest spaghetti pots I’ve ever seen. She made cooking for the masses look easy! Part of learning how to prepare food in large quantities comes when regularly cooking for a large crew. Mel and Barb were blessed with six wonderful children, and it was no big deal to add another pot or two on the stove. My mother grew up in a family of seven siblings. My grandmother would begin preparing breakfast long before sun-up, and she would wash the last dish after the evening meal long after the sun went down. She fed hungry people all day long. They would work in the fields all day, stopping after the sun set, ready to eat dinner. When they came inside to eat, they were starving! In today’s single-serve, microwavable moments, we sometimes find it hard to imagine what it may be like to offer food to lots of famished folks.

How can we reach mass numbers of hungry people the Bread of Life? I found myself pondering this question yesterday. Standing in the entry way of the information center at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Kentucky, I viewed a piece of stunning artwork painted over the door frame of the welcome center. In this eye-catching mural, one can see our Lord Jesus Christ, victorious, coming in the clouds, seated upon His white horse. He is returning for His bride, as promised in Holy Scripture. Jesus knew how to satisfy hearts who are starving to taste the Bread of Life. After His death and resurrection, Christ commanded His disciples to get out there and offer His Word to hungry masses. Men and women come to this seminary every year from all over the world, simply seeking answers on how to best reach starving hearts with His bread, the food that nourishes both body and soul. We are called to answer Christ’s Great Commission, until the moment He returns to bring us home. Christ asked Philip, “Where shall we buy bread for these people to eat?” How would you respond to the Master’s question today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Teach me Lord, how to offer the bread of life to starving masses. I think I’m going to need a bigger pot. In Jesus’ name, I pray, Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

The seventy-year itch

Today’s Reading: Isaiah 64:4 (NIV)

Since ancient times no one has heard, no ear has perceived, no eye has seen any God besides You, who acts on behalf of those who wait for Him.

Dear Father, you know how I like the challenge of a fixer-upper. I try to fix the things that are broken. But here I am Lord, broken before You this morning, and I need You to fix me up. You know how I don’t like to wait. Of all the sins I’ve ever committed, waiting for You has been the greatest weakness in my life. I want to wait for You, Lord; really I do; but not really. If I really wanted to wait, I wouldn’t run out ahead of You, seeking an alternative route. I like having Plans A, B and C in place. I’ll plan to Z if You’ll let me (and You always do), but it does me no good if I’m not willing to wait for You. Teach me how to wait in Your holy presence today. Can I just sit here for awhile and experience Your peace?

I admit I have the seventy-year itch, Lord. Jeremiah once prophesied Your Words, “When seventy years are completed in Babylon, I will come to you and fulfill my gracious promise to bring you back to this place. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, when you seek me with all your heart.” (Jeremiah 29:10-13). Jeremiah’s prophecy in the midst of what seems to be an unmovable mountain gives me hope for a brighter day. I’ll be seventy years old in twenty years, eleven months and six days, but who’s counting? Help me, Lord. Teach me how to wait patiently for You. Help me discern Your will for my life in this moment, for this day.

You created an awesome woman when you made my Mom. She is the most patient person I’ve ever known. She’s waited a long time to see her prayers answered. I would have loved inheriting that spiritual tenacity from her. Do you ever get tired of hearing me moan, dear Lord? I have some affinity for my Israelite relatives. They walked in the wilderness for forty years; yet, here I am on the seventy-year track. Teach me how to wait for You - even if it means I must wait seventy-times-seven years. Oh Lord, if I’m going to have to wait that long, I will need Your holy heart to survive. Create in me a new heart, O Lord, and renew a right spirit within me.

I’ve been dialing 911 a lot lately. Thank You for always answering when I dial Daddy 911. It is Your love that draws me back to You, even when I’m not very patient. You bring comfort to me each morning, with every single breath, walking with me every step of the way. You wait, knowing I will seek Your face, asking for mercy and forgiveness and grace. When I don’t understand why, You hold me, and it is enough. This is Your master plan for my life. I was created to worship and glorify You. You are all I need for this day and for every tomorrow. You hold my life and for the ones I love in Your hand. Help me learn sweet patience as You make it all happen in Your time.

At the end of this, my seventy year itch, I know it will be Your love alone that heals my broken heart. Today I experience a taste of perfect love, and You lift me high above the chatter in this world. Your love has the power to heal every broken and hurting heart. You are the Great fixer-upper. I don’t have to try so hard Lord, because You already have it in hand. Thank You for helping me let go.

I’m ready to wait for You now. Teach me to wait patiently.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

You have a master plan for me and my kin. Teach me to wait patiently in You as you bring it all to pass. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray, Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

The sweetness in silence

Today’s Reading: John 5:25 (NIV)

25 I tell you the truth, a time is coming and has now come when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God and those who hear will live.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

My mother has said I’ve been blessed with the gift of gab. I chattered from the moment I got up in the morning until I lay my head down on the pillow at night. My favorite baby doll was Chatty Cathy®. She was the first of many dolls who could talk back to me. My husband of thirty years will confirm I never grew out of that “chatty” phase. He has this furrowed brow look, and I see every now and then, when he simply wants me to shut up. God love him! I wonder if he knew just how much time he would spend listening to me chatter when he said, “I do.” It’s my fault he has to wear hearing aids now. I’ve literally talked his ears off.

A wise and discerning pastor once said, “If you want to hear God, you must first be willing to listen.” We get so very busy, caught up in the chatter of our days that we don’t realize we are dying on the vine. We cannot hear God’s voice if we do not stop and listen. I’ve been studying the spiritual gift of solitude. Solitude is a spiritual discipline that has to “grow on you,” especially if you like to chatter. My favorite time of day is between 4 and 5am. In the early morning hours, just before the sun comes up, I enter into His holy presence with praise and prayers of confession, repentance and intercession. Then, I sit and wait. It is in the waiting I feel closest to my Lord. I can sit for an hour and experience the breath of His love. It is in this silence that I experience His peace that passes all understanding and it guards my heart and mind in Christ Jesus. His Word is the only words I hear. I look for the morning light to come, knowing the Father has already planned for my steps for this day.

When we’ve died to our sin and have been raised with Christ through the power of His blood, we will hear His voice and live! His peace waits for you in sweet silence. This is your moment to be still and listen to God.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

I can hear You speak when I stop and listen. Thank you Jesus, for Your holy presence in the silence of this day. Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Remixing His message

Today’s Reading: John 5:24 (NIV)

24 I tell you the truth; whoever hears My word and believes Him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

I take the gift of hearing for granted; yet, I’m more cognizant of its benefits now that I’ve begun to actually lose it. I just don’t hear as well as I used to. It is especially noticeable when I’m in room with lots of noise, or if someone is whispering, and I can’t make out their words.

Jesus said that if we are to receive eternal life and not be condemned, we must do two things: hear and believe. It’s not just enough to hear something – we must believe it in our hearts. Preachers can preach until they turn blue in the face; but if we choose not to believe what they’re saying, it does no good. We can read the pages of our Bible over and over again; yet, if we pick and choose what we accept or reject, the Word cannot penetrate our lives. We all enjoy hearing about God’s unending love and favor for all. He is also a God who angers against a sinful and hard-hearted humanity. Some things are easier to accept than others. Christ calls us to hear Him and believe what He says is The truth.

I’ve decided that I make a really lousy witness for Jesus Christ. I say I believe, but then I don’t follow through. Or I say I believe the things I want to believe, and pay little attention to the words that I really don’t want to hear. I read His Word, but don’t practice His teachings every day. I tell of His love, mercy and grace, while harboring resentment, frustration, and unforgiveness inside. Like Paul, I am the worst of sinners – a complete hypocrite. You know, there are times when I wonder why God would even bother using someone like me to share the Good News. Do you ever wonder about that? He continues to speak to my heart, even in my gross imperfections. He covers me with His blood. Christ takes my hearing impediment and lack of faith and transforms it by His grace. God’s love is greater than any love we can even begin to comprehend. He loves us so very much that He sent His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

Today, I’m praying for an extra measure of Christ’s mercy and grace. I’m asking forgiveness for only hearing what I want to hear and picking the Gospel apart – choosing what I will and won’t believe. I’m praying for His forgiveness for trying to remix His Message in such a way that is appealing to my own personal preferences and desires.

Lord, have mercy; Christ, have mercy; Lord, have mercy.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Create in me a clean heart, and renew a right spirit within me. I believe you, Lord! Help my unbelief. Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Learn something new? Follow through.

Today’s Reading: John 5:19 (NIV)

19 Jesus gave them this answer: “I tell you the truth; the Son can do nothing by Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing, because whatever the Father does the Son also does.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

“Ah ha!” moments seem to come in groups of three. And the Good Lord has to work extra hard to make it stick in my thick skull. I learned something significant about myself this weekend, and how I often fail at imitating Jesus Christ in my life. This is definitely a paradox worth exploring.

I heard three great messages this weekend about what it looks like to be radically hospitable to others, especially in our churches. Mulling over the Bishop’s comment on Saturday at the Conference Office, I remembered his words, “When congregations first examine the five practices of fruitful congregations, they will believe they are doing it all right… but they are not.” At first, I thought that was an unusual statement; but then I wondered if I was exactly the kind of person he was describing in his remark. Like most mathematical equations, his words were not calculating correctly in my tiny little brain.

On Sunday morning, I listened with great interest as our assistant pastor told “a tale of two churches,” and the story of a missionary friend. He came by invitation to observe and participate in a Christian congregation for three months, sharing his observations of how their church was faring in outreach ministry efforts. This particular church apparently had “state-of-the-art” everything, and they lacked nothing inside their walls to create a warm and welcoming environment for their honored guests. They only thing missing was their guests. Then, the pastor asked, “Who did you bring with you to church today?” I glanced at the empty space next to where I was sitting and thought to myself, “Why didn’t I phone my neighbors and last night and invite them to worship? Yikes! I could have made a five-minute phone call.” I’m always happy to be at Faith Church! The sermon was great, and there was plenty of comfortable seating space for others. Sitting there, I realized I had failed to offer radical hospitality simply by neglecting to invite someone else. God was serving me an Ah hah! moment, right there in the pew. I think I tried to shrink down in my seat just a little bit more, but I couldn’t escape my pastor’s eyes. How do pastors do that? It’s like they bore holes into your very soul. Sometimes its easier just to close your eyes and pray really hard they won’t call on you to speak!

And if that wasn’t enough fun for one morning, I stayed for the next worship service, and found a place up front to sit, next to a dear friend who had been visiting her daughter for several months. This was Sylvia's last Sunday at Faith Church before she returned home, and I wanted to be with her today. Her presence has been such a blessing to me, and I know I’m going to miss having her worship with us at Faith Church. The pastor was smack dab in the middle of an awesome message on how we can show radical hospitality, when suddenly, I noticed a visiting couple sitting across the pew, as their toddler slip off the padded pew and hit his head on the offering envelope rack. I knew from his muffled screams that the little boy was hurt. His mother lifted him up into her arms and quickly whisked him to the back of the sanctuary. I sat there frozen for about ten seconds. What should I do? I knew there were ushers and greeters in the foyer to offer assistance. At that moment, my pen ran out of ink. I closed my Bible and made a hasty exit to the back of the building. There, I found our guest, standing in the corridor, rocking her son while he wailed. It was an awkward moment – the ushers were there, but here was our honored guest with no place to sit and she was holding her hurting child. I immediately went up to her and offered to get her a chair and asked if he was okay. I looked at the crying child and said, “What’s your name?” “Adam,” he replied between screams. I said, “Adam, do you have an owwee? Would you like some ice for your boo boo?” Immediately, that grandmotherly instinct kicked in. What would I want for my grandchild if they hit their head on the pew during worship? Ice! The young mother looked at her son and said, “Would you like some ice, honey?” “Yesssssss,” he cried. I ran as fast as I could to the kitchen to get a baggie with some ice and paper towels. Mother seemed genuinely grateful for the ice, and after a few minutes, little Adam stopped crying. I returned to the sanctuary and sat down next to my friend. Picking up my pen, I was delighted to see it was working just fine!

Only God can take the paradoxes of our lives and turn them for His good. Jesus walked the earth, imitating His Father, every step of the way. Because we love Christ, we too must learn to how to imitate Him, not only with our words, but in actions. I realized those sermon notes will not do me one bit of good if I don’t practice them myself.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Thank you Lord! You love me unconditionally. Help me to always ask the question, What would You do, and then do it. Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Sabbath rest

Today’s Reading: John 5:16-17(NIV)

16 So, because Jesus was doing these things on the Sabbath, the Jews persecuted Him. 17 Jesus said to them, “My Father is always at His work to this very day, and I, too, am working.”

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

I encountered an amazing Sabbath rest while attending a seminar yesterday at the Missouri Area Conference Office in Columbia. Our Bishop, Robert Schnase, spoke about the purpose and vision for his new book, Five Practices of Fruitful Congregations. I listened intently to the Bishop’s compelling words. I relaxed in a warm and inviting meeting area, sitting in a comfortable chair with a cup of hot coffee in hand, served in a glass coffee mug, while snacking on warm, homemade granola. It was the coldest day of the year in Missouri, and I appreciated the warmth inside. I rested, while our Conference Staff worked hard to provide a radically hospitable and welcoming environment for all who came to learn. Our Bishop didn’t get a day off to rest. He spoke for two hours, expressing his deep conviction and desire to somehow to reach the people in Missouri with the Good News of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. His urgency compelled all of us to get out there and do the same. We need to follow in this man’s footsteps. He travels many miles every week to share, motivate and inspire Christians to emulate Christ in their lives. He has a horrific schedule to keep. It was obvious to me that the Holy Spirit has given him supernatural strength to move forward in faith each day.

Aren’t you grateful knowing that while God took time to rest on the Sabbath, He never stopped doing good? Our Lord leads us by example. Every heart needs time away to rest and regroup from the drama of our daily routine. We see Christ making time to pray and celebrate intimate relationship with His Father. Yet, His hospitality and welcome does not end during a Sabbath rest. Christ continues to do good, love freely, and offer forgiveness to all who seek Him. Should we not offer our very best to the ones who come to worship in our sanctuaries each weekend?

Bishop Schnase said, “The most important hour of each week in the life of our visitors is the worship hour.” How will we welcome the Lord’s guests to worship today? Will we lead by the example of Jesus? He was not afraid to speak to those who were seeking Him out, answer their prayers, heal the sick and forgive sin, especially on the Sabbath. Thank God for His mercy and grace that is available to all of us twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week.

Radical hospitality is the key to emulate Christ’s unconditional love for all. How will you choose to share the love of Jesus with the people you meet in worship today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Teach me, Father, to be radically hospitable, expressing Your unconditional love for all people every day of the week, but especially on the Sabbath, when we come to honor and glorify You. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Perfect timing!

Today’s Reading: John 5:14-15(NIV)

14 Later Jesus found him at the temple and said to him, “See, you are well again. Stop sinning or something worse may happen to you.” 15 The man went away and told the Jews that it was Jesus who had made him well.

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

Last night when I came home from work, I sat down on the sofa in our living room and listened intently to a woman being interviewed on television. She told a story of the miraculous healing she received from stage 3 colon cancer five years ago. During a biopsy procedure, she told about how she saw her Lord sitting at her side on the operating table just before they put her to sleep. The last thing she remembered was holding onto His robe and crying out the name, Jesus.

The invalid whom Jesus healed at the pool of Bethesda didn’t know his healer’s name, at first. We may receive healing and not have a clue how it happened. Bringing people into the presence of Christ is something we are called to do, because we know from our own experience that when we meet the Lord Jesus Christ face to face, everything changes. Nothing remains the same.

Isn’t it interesting Jesus chose to heal the man’s physical infirmities first, and then instructed him to stop sinning. I think we get that part backwards in our minds and in our churches. Many believe we have to stop sinning first before we can come to the Lord in faith. It’s not true! Christ died for us while we were yet sinning, and that proves His love toward us. That’s why there are NO perfect people in church. It’s really okay to show up there; we’re all in good company. We meet Jesus at our most desperate need, sometimes lost in the pit of our own making. We meet Jesus on hospital gurneys as we wait, terrified, for the testing to begin. We wonder if the results will lead us to death or new life. I meet Jesus when I least expect Him to be there. He is the only One I know who has picture perfect timing. He meets my need before I ask. He is right here with me now, and He is also with you.

As the body of Christ, we need to embrace the concept of radical hospitality. Learning to love others unconditionally and without reservation is a Christ-like quality. We may not always understand the person sitting next to us in church. We may not know them well, but God knows them intimately. He knows our neighbors, our cranky relatives, and He knows the condition of our hearts! Christ wants all to receive forgiveness and restoration for our bodies and souls. When we recognize that our need is so much greater than our temporary circumstance, we begin to understand the importance of knowing who Jesus is.

If you are looking for healing today, Jesus is the only name you need to know. Cry out to Him. He offers healing and wholeness to all who believe. Turn away from the sins the separates you from the Lord who longs to give you new life. He will do it, if you will cry out to Jesus right now.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

Lord Jesus, thank you for healing my body, mind and spirit, today. I love you, Lord, Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

Taking a step of faith

Today’s Reading: John 5:8-11(NIV)

8 Then Jesus said to him, “Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.” 9 At once the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked. The day on which this took place was a Sabbath, 10 and so the Jews said to the man who had been healed, “It is the Sabbath; the law forbids you to carry your mat.” 11 But he replied, “The man who made me well said to me, ‘Pick up your mat and walk.’”

Memory Verse: “Therefore welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God.” (Romans 15:7 ESV)

Good day!

There is nothing more thrilling than watching a baby-turned-toddler walk unassisted for the very first time. Wobbly little sailor legs begin to gain stability, as tiny toes grip the carpeted floor. Their look of sheer joy denotes a sense of accomplishment and pride. When a child walks, parent and grandparents stop to cheer! There are no words for such a historic moment in time.

For the ones who are daily confined to bed or in a wheelchair, there is nothing more glorious than the hope of one day rising up and walking unassisted. We see the possibilities of miraculous transformation. It was that hope alone that brought the invalid to Bethesda every day. Can you imagine the inexpressible joy he must have felt as he picked up his mat and walked for the very first time in thirty-eight years? How in the world could such a miracle be seen as sin? The Jews who watched him with their very own eyes were more concerned about the breaking of a Sabbath rule than the healing that had just occurred in the man’s life. How would you respond to such a convoluted question? If you were suddenly free to stand up and walk after years of confinement, would you honestly be more concerned about whether you should carry a mat, or be about telling the world what Christ has done for you?

Be careful! It is easy to get wrapped up in our rituals, traditions and protocol, that we somehow miss recognizing the miracle happening right before our eyes. We must be willing to risk laying down our sacred cows, if we want to experience the freedom that comes with rising up in His Spirit. What things hold you back from receiving God’s best for you today?

When Christ calls you to get up, pick up your mat and walk, do not let that mat get in your way from receiving God’s best. A step of faith begins with simple obedience.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

I long to lay aside manmade rules and fully receive the miracle you have fashioned for me. Help me to rise up and walk, in Jesus’ name, Amen.

___________________________

© Copyright 2008, 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. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.