Life questions

Today’s Reading: John 12:16(NIV)

16 At first His disciples did not understand all this. Only after Jesus was glorified did they realize that these things had been written about Him and that they had done these things to Him.

Good morning!

I’m taking a Bible prophecy class this month at Faith Church. I find it truly miraculous to see how God’s Word fits perfectly together throughout all the generations. It is kind of like piecing a quilt together, weaving the various textures, colors and hues into one large blanket. Every stitch links us together with our past, present and future. I cannot help but be impressed with the Alpha and Omega; He is the first and the last, the beginning and end. How do prophets know about the things that will happen hundreds to thousands of years after them? Only the Father has the power to reveal His plan and purpose for our lives in such a magnificent way. I wonder if we realize the full impact our words will have on the lives of others today?

Hindsight is sometimes clearer to me than foresight. Looking back, I can see more about what my parents tried to teach me when I was a child. It has taken years for me to begin to understand the bigger picture. I imagine I will continue to absorb even more, as I grow in years of wisdom and grace. Do I always understand what I say or think? Is there an even deeper meaning to the thoughts we convey each day? Will it mean something to someone else a thousand years from now? If we believe we are a vital part of the Father’s master quilt, will His holy Word be fulfilled in our own lives, at this specific time and place?

The disciples were really confused. They did not understand the life events happening around them. It took Christ’s death and resurrection for the disciples to truly see that the things written long ago had come to pass before their very eyes. He continues to reveal Himself to you and me. We may not always understand what is happening, but we can trust, without a doubt, that His plan is worth pursuing with passion. Faithfulness comes as we experience the faith maker up close and personal. He holds the answer to our soul’s deepest longing. The Father gives us His Word to cling to. It may only be after we’ve experienced total transformation into new and eternal life, that we will truly understand what we see happening around us today.

Got questions? Jesus Christ is the answer you’ve been searching for.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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 parade of a lifetime

Today’s Reading: John 12:12-15(NIV)

12 The next day the great crowd that had come for the Feast heard that Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem. 13 They took palm branches and went out to meet Him, shouting, “Hosanna!” “Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!” “Blessed is the King of Israel!” 14 Jesus found a young donkey and sat upon it, as it is written, 15 “Do not be afraid, O Daughter of Zion; see, your King is coming, seating on a donkey’s colt.”

Good morning!

I enjoy attending community parades. The town of Salem, Missouri offers one of the best Fourth of July parades I’ve ever been to. Everyone grabs their lawn chairs and blankets, lining the downtown streets while listening for the sounds of the Salem Marching Band drums in the distance. One does not have to worry about missing the beginning or ending of the parade. The fire trucks and police car sirens can be heard for miles as they lead the procession down Main Street. Many churches and civic organizations work for months on their parade float entries. Some of the offerings are absolutely stunning. It is easy to see the time and effort that was invested in creating the perfect float for this parade. How the children love those clowns! They ride along the sidewalks on bicycles and in wagons, throwing candy into the crowd and making funny faces. You can hear the laughter and see the smiling faces of people everywhere. After the parade, one can hear music coming from the courthouse square, and smell the barbecued beef and chicken wafting through the air. Bright balloons of red, white and blue and American flags dance in the summer breeze. The historical society offers tours of its history museum. After the tour, you can sit a spell under the massive oak trees, enjoying a glass of fresh-squeezed lemonade. There is nothing that compares to the hometown parade. In the evening at the park, fireworks fill the night sky with amazing color. It is a reminder of our past, present and future. Families sit and lay on blankets under the stars, looking for the first firework to launch. Until then, we remain content, enjoying the company of family and friends. We revel at the sight of the lightning bugs with their built-in flashlights blinking at us from the air, spending time waiting the coming of the main event.

It was a hometown parade in Jerusalem that day, and all the people were abuzz with delight. The children were seated on their father’s shoulders, as they looked down the path for the Savior to walk by. You could hear the palm branches flapping in the breeze and the beginning of the chant, “Hosanna,” as Jesus appeared on the back of a colt. There were smiles and tears of joy everywhere. People were excited to see the man from Galilee. Some even said, “Blessed is the King of Israel!” It was a parade one could never forget. Jesus Christ is our main event and when He arrives, everyone looks up. Things change forever in the Master’s holy presence. There will be another parade, and it is coming soon, capturing human hearts all over the world. We await the Master’s imminent arrival. We strain our ears to listen for the sound of the trumpet and look up to see the white horse riding across the sky. It will be a parade we will never forget. Are you ready for the parade of a lifetime to begin?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Curious ones

Today’s Reading: John 12:9-11(NIV)

9 Meanwhile a large crowd of Jews found out that Jesus was there and came, not only because of Him but also to see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. 10 So the chief priests made plans to kill Lazarus as well, 11 for on account of him many of the Jews were going over to Jesus and putting their faith in Him.

Good morning!

I was eighteen years old the day Elvis died. Do you remember where you were when you heard the sad news? Jeff and I were driving in the car listening to the radio, when the news of Elvis’ death came across the radio waves. It was hard to accept that the man affectionately known by many as the king of rock and roll was gone. People from all over the country poured into the town of Memphis and lined the streets surrounding Elvis’ home at Graceland. Many came to pay tribute to this singer, songwriter and actor, who had changed the face of rock and roll music forever. Many came to grieve. Through the years, Elvis not only gave away his gift of song and his financial fortune. He regularly bought cars for people and gave money away to those in need. The sad tragedy surrounding Elvis’ death pricked America’s conscience, and people came from everywhere to share their stories and grief all together in one place. Jeff and I made the pilgrimage to Graceland that year. It had been almost three months since his death; yet, when we arrived, we stood in line with hundreds of others, waiting patiently to pay our respects. I’ll never forget the faces of the ones who came to see the home where Elvis lived and died.

Curious people were compelled to travel to the village of Bethany. They had heard Jesus was there, visiting Lazarus, the one whom He had raised from the dead. The Holy Spirit was at work behind the scenes, causing a stir among the Jews. Many had questions; they wondered if this Jesus was truly the promised Messiah. Some carried a deep conviction, believing that seeing these men would perfect their limited vision. The public’ interest placed a burr in the bonnets of the chief priests. Tossing aside their revered Jewish laws, they plotted to kill not just one but two men, for fear that the crowds would begin to believe in this Jesus and the Gospel message He preached.

If you had an opportunity to meet the One who raises the dead to new life, would you leave the creature comforts of home behind and go see for yourself? We have a Savior to share with the world. He is here, right now. How far would you travel to meet the Lord Jesus Christ today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Blinking hearts

Today’s Reading: John 12:7-8(NIV)

7 “Leave her alone,” Jesus replied. “It was intended, that she should save this perfume for the day of my burial. 8 You will always have the poor among you, but you will not always have me.”

Good afternoon!

Four year old Emily hopped up on my lap and emphatically stated, “Nanny!” “I have a heart here,” pointing to her chest, “and a heart here,” pointing to her throat, “and it is blinking at me!” I looked up at my daughter for a translation of what I just heard. Rachel said, “Emily has a heart that blinks and she is very aware of it when she feels the pulse in her throat.” I laughed out loud, but Emily didn’t see it as any laughing matter. She was quite serious, in fact. I asked Emily if everyone has a blinking heart, and she replied in an exasperated tone, “Of course do they do, Nanny!”

I imagine Emily’s tone of voice was much like that of Jesus, when Judas saw no good reason for Mary to waste a pint of pure nard on the Master’s feet. He saw it only from a financial perspective. They could have sold the cologne for a whole year’s wages and given it to the poor. How could she frivolously waste it? Jesus saw Mary’s blinking heart and understood her intent and motivation. This was the reason He came – to save the blinking hearts of the world.

I cannot imagine a world without the love of Jesus in it. My heart would have nothing to blink for if I did not know the master pacemaker. Sometimes we have a hard time seeing all the blinking going on around us. We get preoccupied with the things that we deem so important that we somehow miss out on the beauty of our own pulse. It is the heartbeat of the world. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life (John 3:16).

If you are reading these words right now, lift your hand to your neck and feel the pulse point. Is your heart blinking today? Do you know the master creator? He loves you. He gave you this pulse and a life and an opportunity to love and serve Him. As we move through this day, may we be mindful of all the blinking hearts in the world. Who will be Jesus to them?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Keeper of the money bag

Today’s Reading: John 12:4-6(NIV)

4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, who was later to betray [Jesus], objected, 5 “Why wasn’t this perfume sold and the money given to the poor? It was worth a year’s wages.” 6 He did not say this because he cared about the poor but because he was a thief; as keeper of the money bag, he used to help himself in what was put into it.

Good morning!

I spent many years working downtown, walking the streets to and from my place of employment. Employees who work downtown, learn not to linger or meander along the sidewalks, especially when walking alone. I carried a fanny pack, so that when I walked to and from my car, I did not have to carry a purse. I could wear it around my waist, tucked underneath my suit jacket, and most people didn’t even know it was there. To what lengths do you go to protect the money in your pocket?

As wage earners, all of us make choices about how to spend our resources. I believe that everything I receive is a gift from the Father above. Therefore, the wages I earn do not belong to me. It belongs to Him, the giver of all good gifts. It is His present to my family, and He expects me to use the resources I’ve been given in such a way that is pleasing to Him. God wants me to be a blessing, just as He blesses my life. All of us have been given an important responsibility to keep. Our family’s survival depends upon the wise use of our income. Who is our family? Does it only include our parents, spouses, children and grandchildren? As members of the family of God, we are responsible for the care of our brothers and sisters around the world. There are moments when we may not take our responsibility as seriously as we should. We spend frivolously, seeking personal pleasure and comfort over the needs of others. At some point, you and I may be placed in positions of authority at work, at church, or in our civic organizations, whereby we become keepers of the community treasury. Many will depend upon you to display a model of good stewardship with the resources that have been entrusted to your care. Do you demonstrate the utmost integrity as keeper of the money bag?

Apparently, Judas was not as trustworthy as many believed. He may have known a lot about managing money, having a reputation for being a great businessman, but Jesus knew what Judas was up to. He gave the impression of keeping the disciples’ money close at hand, as sole protector of the disciple’s trust fund. Still, Judas was double-dipping into the pot for his own personal gain. Why didn’t the Lord replace Judas with another, more trustworthy disciple? God allows each of us to experience the temptations and consequences of the sinful choices we make each day. Just because we think we can get away with it doesn’t mean that God won’t ask us for a full accounting later. We will all answer for our actions. None of us are exempt from the judgment. A day of reckoning will come, when God's checks and balances will be put into place. How will you respond to the Lord when He asks you give a full accounting for the gifts He has given you?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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 sweet scent of salvation

Today’s Reading: John 12:1-3(NIV)

1 Six days before the Passover, Jesus arrived at Bethany, where Lazarus lived, whom Jesus had raised from the dead. 2 Here a dinner was given in Jesus’ honor. Martha served, while Lazarus was among those reclining at the table with Him. 3 Then Mary took a pint of pure nard, an expensive perfume; she poured it on Jesus’ feet and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.

Good morning!

I remember my very first date. I was waiting for Jeff to arrive, and he showed up in high style, driving his father’s bright yellow Pinto. “The lemon,” as he affectionately called it, became our mode of transport for all our dates. I didn’t realize that this would be the first of many trips that we would make with each other, side by side. Jeff stepped onto our family’s front porch and rang the doorbell. He was dressed in a bright yellow short-sleeved shirt, matching the color of his car, with contrasting plaid pants and a very wide tie tucked underneath his shirt collar. The sweet smell of fresh Polo® cologne swirled about him, and that fragrance quickly became one of my favorite scents. Jeff’s cologne would remain long after he dropped me off after our dates. There are sweet scents in life that we will never forget.

Early on Sunday mornings, Jeff gets up long before I awake. He showers and dresses and leaves for church in the middle of the night to watch and pray and wait upon the Lord. Quite often, I awake to the scent of his after shave, long after he has left the parsonage. It is a sweet reminder of His presence here. Even after Jeff has gone, his cologne is a constant reminder that the one I love may be out of sight, yet he is not far from my heart.

There was a lot of love being celebrated in Bethany that evening. Lazarus was there, enjoying a brand new life he received when Jesus called him to come out from the grave. The Lord was there, reclining at the table near Lazarus, as they enjoyed the evening meal together. Martha had prepared an amazing feast. The smell of freshly baked bread and the delights of a home-cooked meal were wafting around the room. When Mary opened the bottle of pure nard and began pouring it over her Master’s feet, it became a lingering expression of everlasting love. Can you imagine the sweet scent that filled the room?

The sweet scent of salvation is ever-present. There are days like today when I wake up smelling the fresh rain falling gently outside. I hear the sounds of thunder and see the lightning peal across the early morning sky, and I sense the presence of my Savior. I listen for the chirping of the robins outside my window. They praise the Lord each day with glorious melodies, speaking in a language I have yet to understand. I sense my Savior’s presence. He is always near; I am constantly surrounded by His sweet fragrance. When I close my eyes, I get a whiff of pure nard. It was used to prepare His earthly body for death and resurrection. Can you smell the sweet scent of Jesus Christ surrounding you today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Where is He?

Today’s Reading: John 11:55-57(NIV)

55 When it was almost time for the Jewish Passover, many went up from the country to Jerusalem for their ceremonial cleansing before the Passover. 56 They kept looking for Jesus, and as they stood in the temple area they asked one another, “What do you think? Isn’t He coming to the Feast at all?” 57 But the chief priests and Pharisees had given orders that if anyone found out where Jesus was, He should report it so that they might arrest Him.

Good morning!

Have you ever tried to catch up with someone in a crowd and couldn’t seem to find them? I’ve had this experience several times; most recently at the United Methodist General Conference in Fort Worth. Over the last two years, I’ve spoken online with many new friends from around the world. It is a true blessing to meet and greet people who live in different cultural settings, whose life experiences have intersected with mine. They have made a lasting impression on me. There were some people with whom I was hoping to meet face-to-face while visiting Fort Worth. Maybe I missed seeing them because I was only there for a few days, and maybe I walked right by them and didn’t even know it. Why didn’t I recognize their faces? For all I know, they could have been standing right next to me on the sidewalk just outside the convention center. I wonder - did they see me? Did they recognize who I am?

The people were looking for Jesus. They had traveled to Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover feast together. The people had gathered for a very special event; the party was just getting started and everyone was delighting in the company of their own family and friends. Still, many were searching for the man from Galilee. “Where is He?” they asked. “Isn’t He coming to the biggest celebration of the season?” Some folk truly wanted to meet the Lord, to shake His hand and connect face-to-face with the Master. Others simply wanted to identify who He was, take a sneak peak at the gentleman who was wanted for questioning by the Jewish authorities. Regardless of their motivation, people were looking for the Lord and no one could find Him there.

If you’ve ever wandered around looking for Jesus and you can’t seem to find Him, stop and wait. Why, Jesus Christ may be standing right next to you and me today, and somehow in our tunnel vision, we’ve missed meeting Him! You see, when the Lord Jesus Christ shows up, everything changes. This party is no longer about us, our personal preferences, our friends, our agendas – it is all about Him. When we focus our hearts and minds on only finding each other, we may miss seeing the Lord Jesus Christ in our midst.

Jesus said, “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” (Matt. 28:20b) He is here now. He was here yesterday, today and He will be here forevermore. Are we so busy trying to catch up with each other that we may miss out on seeing Jesus?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Retreat

Today’s Reading: John 11:53-54(NIV)

53 So from that day on they plotted to take to take [Jesus] life. 54 Therefore Jesus no longer moved about publicly among the Jews. Instead He withdrew to a region near the desert, to a village called Ephraim, where He stayed with His disciples.

Good morning!

Where do you like to retreat? Last week during our small group meeting, someone asked me where I like to go on vacation. I especially enjoy visiting the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Our family has made many trips to Bailey, Colorado through the years. This picturesque village is nestled in a beautiful valley running along the Guanella Pass. Bailey is bathed in fields of wildflowers surrounded by steep mountain peaks. Glen Isle Resort has been a Spaulding family favorite for many years. The Rainbow’s End cottage has an old covered front porch that I especially delight in. As the early morning sun creeps up over the snow capped mountain tops, one can sit and listen to the chirping of the birds and the rushing river nearby. It is a picturesque and quiet place, where the sweet smell of a freshly brewed pot of coffee wafts out across the porch and drifts into the crisp mountain air. Wrapped up in a piece quilt with comfy woolen slippers, I sit, surrounded by God’s majestic presence, enjoying the peace and quiet of a cozy mountain retreat. When life is especially crazy, I take a stroll along memory lane and remember the mornings I sat on that front porch just listening to the Lord and whispering praises to His name.

Jesus became a wanted man almost overnight. From the moment He began His earthly ministry, Christ was followed by the believers, the curious and the skeptics. People were drawn to the Messiah; they knew He was offering something bigger than anything they had ever experienced before. A need was being met; people were getting healed; some even brought back to life again. It must have been difficult to find a place of solitude, a retreat where Jesus could rest and wait surrounded by family and friends. The town of Ephraim is approximately eight miles north of Jerusalem, bordering the wilderness of Bethaven. A quiet and secluded village, not far from the town of Bethel, Jesus chose this place for his personal retreat.

There is a special place where we can experience holy retreat each day. We do not have to travel far to find Him. We may experience holy retreat at work, at home, in our car, at school, or even walking at a nearby park. You may find sweet peace strolling along the beach, gazing into the vast ocean waters. Maybe your holy space is standing knee deep along the edge of a river, casting a rod upon the waters and waiting for the “big one” to bite. Some find solace swinging a golf club at the ninth hole, or simply taking a little rest on the hammock swaying between two trees in your back yard. Jesus knew where to retreat and to whom He would go. Find a space today to spend time alone with Him. Christ can bring you His peace that passes all understanding. He will guard your heart and mind, as you retreat into His holy presence. Do not miss the mountaintop experience because of busyness. Where will you go to find Jesus today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Gale force wind

Today’s Reading: John 11:49b-52 (NIV)

49 Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! 50 You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.” 51 He did not say this on his own, but as high priest that year he prophesied that Jesus would die for the Jewish nation, 52 and no only for that nation but also for the scattered children of God, to bring them together and make them one.

Acts 2:1-4 (The Message)

When the Feast of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Without warning there was a sound like a strong wind, gale force – no one could tell where it came from. It filled the whole building. Then, like a wildfire, the Holy Spirit spread through their ranks, and they started speaking in a number of different languages as the Spirit prompted them.

Good morning!

I listened intently last night as the wind whipped around our church parsonage in St. Charles, Missouri. I wondered if we might blow away in the eye of the storm. I can sleep through almost anything, but last night’s storms kept me up all night long. I’ve learned to pay close attention to the Lord as He speaks in the wind and rain. I’ve been praying today for the families who lost loved ones last night in the tornadoes that demolished homes and businesses Oklahoma and Southwest Missouri. Will we find new life in these gale force winds?

How the Father uses every heart for kingdom work is simply amazing to me. His plan and purpose is sure. He is greater than anything I can understand or even begin to comprehend in this life. Trusting Him completely is a lifelong process; it is a journey I willingly choose to walk. I don’t understand the wind and rain, death and destruction, grief and loss. I do not understand why we experience the dark night of the soul; yet, I believe the Father brings forth new life even in the midst of fear and grief. Caiaphas prophesied of Jesus’ death and resurrection, and how He would save a fallen world. Did Caiaphas realize the words he had spoken had a much greater meaning? I seriously doubt it. Do we speak prophetically today and realize what we say may have an even deeper meaning? Our intent may be completely different from that of the Lord God Almighty, and yet He chooses to use you and me for His greater plan and purpose. Don’t you find this absolutely incredible?

Long ago, Christ followers were gathered together all in one place, with thousands who did not believe or know the Lord Jesus Christ. Without warning, a wind kicked up out of nowhere and they could tell from where it came. Like wildfire, the power of the Holy Spirit spread among the people and they began speaking in different languages as it prompted them to tell the story. The wind and flames dance around us today, and we are reminded of how God reveals Himself just when we least expect it. Even in the midst of fear and death, we can see His glory, touch His face, and feel His holy breath upon our lives. Caiaphas plotted for Jesus to die. God knew His Son would rise again. People were prophesying in different languages and all who were there, understood God’s love in their own native tongue. The Word emerged from the wind and flame. Can you hear Him speaking to your heart today? Won’t you come and worship with me at Faith Church? Come and listen to the wind as it speaks to our hearts today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Blind eyewitness

Today’s Reading: John 11:49-50 (NIV)

49 Then one of them, named Caiaphas, who was high priest that year, spoke up, “You know nothing at all! 50 You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.”

Good morning!

For Joseph Caiaphas, being the Chief Priest and bottle washer at the temple had its advantages. I would imagine he grew up surrounded by affluence and wealth. Placed in charge of the temple treasury, many of the Jewish Sadducees looked to Caiaphas for the protection of their personal interests. They must have liked the job he was doing, for he served in office almost nineteen years. Caiaphas knew about Jesus of Nazareth. One could not help but listen to His amazing teaching. Caiaphas observed the growing number of faithful groupies who had left their livelihoods and families to follow this man all around Galilee. The brotherhood was becoming quite a bitter bunch; gossip and harsh words were echoing in the hallways of the temple courts. They looked to Caiaphas for a solution to this problem. Have you ever resented someone so much that you wished He were dead?

Ironically, there were many who truly believe they are keeping the letter of the law as handed down through their forefather Moses. God-fearing Jews didn’t like it one bit when Jesus suggested that if a person had lustful thoughts for another, they had already committed adultery in their hearts. Ouch! Does this mean that if you were plotting to find a way to rid yourself of a man you didn’t like, under Jesus’ teaching, would you be guilty of murder, for simply having thought about it?

Caiaphas was an eyewitness to God made man but he was blinded to the truth. When Caiaphas spoke a word of prophecy over Jesus’ life, he didn’t even realize who had given him the word. Caiaphas said, “You do not realize that it is better for you that one man die for the people than the whole nation perish.” He had absolutely no idea what the implications of this statement would mean for the world, and how one man’s death and resurrection would forever change the course of human history.

Hanging out in the city of spiritual blindness is a dangerous place to live. Like Joseph Caiaphas, we are all eyewitnesses to the Truth. How is your vision today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Are you grave digging or stone rolling?

Today’s Reading: John 11:45-47 (NIV)

45 Therefore many of the Jews who had come to visit Mary, and had seen what Jesus did, put their faith in Him. 46 But some of them went to the Pharisees and told them what Jesus had done. 47 Then the chief priests and the Pharisees called a meeting of the Sanhedrin. “What are we accomplishing?” they asked. “Here is this man performing many miraculous signs. 48 If we let Him go on like this, everyone will believe in Him and then the Romans will come and take away both our place and our nation.

Good morning!

What are we accomplishing? This is a great question! I’ve posed this very question in prayer daily, but especially in the last few weeks. I believe that, at some level, every human heart longs to make a lasting difference in their world. Oh, there may be a few who only seem to live for the moment, caring about their needs first and foremost, and seeking “what’s in it” for them. Yet, there are others who seem truly interested in making the world a better place for someone else. Somehow, our jealousies and insecurities push us to posture for position and power. This mindset can reroute affect many humble hearts from time to time. Do you know any ladder climbers out there? Folks who posture for position and control? This passage of Scripture speaks loudly to all of us today.

Can you imagine what the world might be like if everyone had an opportunity to see and know the power and love of Jesus Christ demonstrated right before their very eyes? Would every heart then believe? The miracle of Lazarus’ raising from death to new life was the talk of the town. If Christian believers claimed the power of Christ and began raising the dead in Jesus’ name, do you think there might be more Christian believers in the world? Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in me will do what I have been doing. He will do even greater things than these, because I am going to the Father.” [John 14:12]

When we share the Gospel message with others, we believe by faith that it is not just our own mere words, but the transforming power of the Holy Spirit giving life-changing hope to the lost. When a person gives their heart away to Jesus, they leave their life of sin behind and choose to move forward in faith. A lost and dead soul has now received new life in Jesus Christ! Grave stones are being opened every day as people come to know the Lord. Are you grave digging or a stone rolling?

The Gospel message did not end on the day Jesus hung on a tree. I challenge you today to ask the question, “What am I accomplishing for the kingdom of God?” Lives are being lost each day, yet Christ has spoken His power into our hearts. Life doesn’t have to end at the grave. It all begins anew in Christ. Do you know what it truly feels like to leave your grave of sin behind?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Coming out!

Today’s Reading: John 11:41-44 (NIV)

41 So they took away the stone. Then Jesus looked up and said, “Father, I thank You that you have heard me. 42 I knew that You always hear me, but I said this for the benefit of the people standing here, that they may believe that You sent me.” 43 When He had said this, Jesus called in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, his hands and feet wrapped with strips of linen, and a cloth around his face. Jesus said to them, “Take off the grave clothes and let him go.”

Good morning!

One morning not long ago, I walked into my kitchen and immediately smelled a deathly odor. I knew before I ever reached the goldfish bowl what I would find. Jonah John had crossed over from his earthly fishbowl into the great river of life. His spirit had obviously left the building but the earthly remains were stinking up my house! He had passed in the night and it did not take long for that rotten smell to permeate the house. While holding my breath, I buried my buddy at sea, and tried to eliminate the residual odor as best I could. It took several days for the stench to completely disappear. Once you begin to recognize what death truly smells like, it is something you will not forget.

Lazarus wasn’t just sick - he was dead. He had been in the grave for four whole days. Rot and decay had set in. Eventually, all that remained of Lazarus’ earthly life were the bones that supported his earthly frame. Jesus didn’t lay hands on Lazarus. He didn’t go into the cave where Lazarus’ body lay and perform some sort of mystical deed. Lazarus’ body was wrapped in strips of linen, lying in the cold stone tomb. His ears no longer functioned. His eyes could not see. His lips could not speak. But everything changed when Jesus called out his name. "Lazarus, come out!" The spirit spoke to flesh and Lazarus heard the Master’s voice and obeyed.

Friends, we have managed to dig our own graves filling them with our sins and failures. We’ve worked hard to hide our broken hearts, hoping no one will notice the foul stench inside. The greatest miracle in life occurs when we hear and answer the voice of Jesus as He calls us out of the grave! His spirit speaks to our flesh, and we cannot help but leave our past behind, choosing to obey and follow Him.

This miracle recorded in the book of John holds a special significance for me. Just like Jesus called Lazarus from the grave, He has called me to come out from the sin that buried my heart in guilt and shame, and begin to live anew in the light of mercy and grace. In this cave, my flesh was wasting away. Rotten to the core, no perfume, make-up, not stylish clothing could hide the decay in my heart. It took a personal call from a real Savior, my Lord Jesus Christ, to bring me out from the grave I had dug. He alone has the power to remove the strips of linen from my face.

On this, his brand new day, Lazarus took a fresh breath of new life. His spirit heard the call of Christ and he obeyed. This same miracle of new life can be yours today. Jesus Christ is calling you to come out, leave your sin behind, and follow Him. Will you hear and obey the call of Jesus Christ today? This day can be your resurrection day.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

Breathless wonder

Today’s Reading: John 11:38-40 (NIV)

38 Jesus, once more deeply moved, came to the tomb. It was a cave with a stone laid across the entrance. 39 “Take away the stone,” He said. “But Lord,” said Martha, the sister of the dead man, “by this time there is a bad odor, for he has been there four days.” 40 Then Jesus said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

Good morning!

Last night, I was working at the computer, taking an online test for work, when my cell phone rang. I heard the words a grandmother does not ever want to hear. “Maddie has stopped breathing; she’s been taken by ambulance – Ben is on his way to the hospital – go NOW.” I promptly failed the online exam I was taking, grabbed my shoes, husband and car keys, and off we sped to the hospital ER, wondering what in the world had happened. It was an awful ten minute moment in the car. I don’t think I took a deep breath from the time the phone call came until we arrived at the ER.

Kari’s mother was panic-stricken, and with good reason. I thought she might pass out in my arms as we grandmothers cried together in the hospital corridor. Apparently, Madison was wailing for Mommy to pick her up when she suddenly stopped breathing and fell like a limp rag into my daughter-in-law’s arms. It appeared as if Maddie might have suffered a small seizure and then there was nothing; no movement, no response. She was breathless. Nancy said they called 911 but it took an eternity for the paramedics to arrive. When fear grips us, seconds seem like an eternity. What do you do when someone you love becomes breathless?

By the time the paramedics got Maddie to the hospital, she was awake and breathing normally again. An oxygen mask helped boost her air intake. Maddie was fussy and sleepy looking, but breathing on her own. Two hours later, the ER doc gave us the good news – Maddie had experienced what pediatricians have coined as a breath holding spell. A common occurrence for many strong-willed two year olds who startle suddenly or want something that is out of their reach, they begin to cry uncontrollably, and without warning, suddenly pass out, becoming limp and lifeless. That momentary shut down gives their brain a chance to do a little remix. Maddie had not had the life-threatening seizure as we had feared and she had not choked or aspirated on the Popsicle® she had just consumed. It wasn’t a diabetic response to the sugar intake, and fortunately, Maddie had not choked. This was the best case scenario to a very frightening life event. We returned home with grateful hearts, thanking God for life and breath and the priceless gift of our granddaughter Madison.

Jesus stood at the tomb of his friend Lazarus. There was no breath – no life; only the sounds of the weeping women who had lost their brother to death’s strong grip. When Jesus commanded the men to roll away the stone, Martha feared the worst. Her brother had been breathless for four days and she was certain the foul stench would overcome them all. Jesus spoke new breath into Martha’s fainting heart when He said, “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

We experience life, death, and a lot of breathless moments every day. God's glory is revealed through faith, and it is that faith which we cling to for new life. Can you see the glory of God shining this morning? He reveals His amazing power to you and me in these moments of breathless wonder.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.

When God cries

Today’s Reading: John 11:34-37 (NIV)

34 “Where have you laid him?” Jesus asked. “Come and see, Lord,” they replied. 35 Jesus wept. 36 Then the Jews said, “See how He loved him!” 37 But some of them said, “Could not He who opened the eyes of the blind man have kept this man from dying?”

Good morning!

I wonder how Mary and Martha must have felt as they watched God cry. Their best friend and the Savior of the world stood at their side, in community, weeping holy tears of sadness. Do you think God cries today?

I believe God cries when He sees the suffering of the little children in the Condo, orphaned and left all alone, watching their parents die in the ravages of civil war and rampant-spreading disease. He hears the cries of every hungry child, wasting away in utter starvation, suffering intense physical pain. We gaze into the hollow eyes of a sick and hurting child, and know that God must be crying tears of grief. I’ve heard that when rain falls from heaven, it nourishes the land, providing our rivers and streams a rich new life. These are the tears of a broken-hearted Father, as He observes the suffering of His precious created ones. What will it take for us to learn how to willingly share our resources with each another? How many millions will have to die before we find a way to feed the hungry children in our world?

One tear falling from the Master’s face can heal a blind man’s sight, restore hearing to the deaf, and help a lame man walk again. One tear shed in grief will raise the dead to new and vibrant life. When God cries, hardened hearts melt, minds are transformed, and people learn how to love each other as Christ loves each and every of us. Nothing stays the same when God cries.

Jesus wept at the tomb of His friend, and the Jews exclaimed, “See how He loved him!” Jesus is crying out for your heart today. His tears will totally transform your life, if you are willing to stand in His holy rain. Come experience the love of Jesus Christ today. I’ve saved a seat for you at Faith Church.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© 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.