It's a wash!

Today’s Reading: John 13:6(NIV)

6 He came to Simon Peter, who said to Him, “Lord, are you going to wash my feet?”

Good morning!

It is sometimes a difficult thing to let others serve you. We live in a mindset of self-sufficiency. We raise our children up, hoping they will one day become independent, productive adults. We pray they will learn to take care of themselves and not depend upon the graces of others for their daily needs. It doesn’t always work that way; many parents are still out there dreaming of the day when their children will finally assume full responsibility for their lives.

There are times, however, when we need to rely upon others for help. When we become ill and our bodies are in a weakened condition, we may need someone to assist us with even the simplest of tasks. I remember the helpless state I found myself in after having neck surgery some years ago. The anesthesia completely made me immobile for a period of time while my body healed. I could not open my eyelids without the assistance of my physician. I could not lift my arms or legs without the help of the charge nurse. I was unable to ring a call light for help. I’ve never experienced anything so frustrating or frightening. I was thankful that the time I spent in temporary paralysis was short-lived. Yet, there are many people today who suffer with long-term paralysis, who find they are wholly leaning upon the assistance of others to help them survive each day.

Simon Peter was appalled when Jesus approached him with the towel and basin. There was no way this independent, capable man was going to let the Lord of life wash his dirty feet. In complete surprise, I can hear Peter say: “Lord, I couldn’t possibly let you wash me. I can do this myself.” Just like Simon Peter, we all think we can wash our own dirty feet, removing the gunk of sin-buildup over our years of independent life experience. We don’t think we’re sick enough for a Savior, yet. We can slough off all the things we’ve said and done through the years that have hurt others. If we just do ten good things, we can maybe wipe out that one really big mistake we made in a fit of childlike rebellion and anger. We can wash our own feet, thank you very much – we just don’t need God to fix the messes we’ve made, do we?

Imagine the Lord Jesus Christ standing before you today with a towel and basin in His hand. He is quietly waiting for you to give Him your dirty feet, your broken heart, and your sin-sick soul. He is waiting to take your sin upon Himself because He loves you! In fact, He has already done this for you at Calvary. Jesus is pleading with you to give it up now, give it all to Him. We think we can do this squeaky clean thing all on our own. Without accepting Christ’s gift of salvation, we will never be able to rid ourselves of the sins that separate us from the Father. What will you do? Are you willing to lay aside your self-sufficient attitude, get real with God, and allow Jesus Christ to wash your sins away, once and for all?

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.

Barefoot living

Today’s Reading: John 13:3-5(NIV)

3 Jesus knew that the Father had put all things under His power, and that He had come from God and was returning to God, 4 so He got up from the meal, took off his outer clothing, and wrapped a towel around His waist. 5 After that, He poured water into a basin and began to wash His disciples’ feet, drying them with the towel that was wrapped around Him.

Good morning!

When I’m home, I like to go barefooted around the house. I wear dress shoes every day of the week and it is a treat for me to put my shoes in the closet and not look at them for a few hours each day. Because I enjoy going barefooted, my feet tend to get really dirty, especially if I run outside to the garden or make a quick trip to the curb with the trash. Jeff laughs at my small feet and tiny toes. He claims my toes do not touch the ground, but I know better; they certainly get dirty when I’m running around without socks and shoes.

Once a month, I make a visit to one of my favorite nail salons for a pedicure. Through the years, I’ve developed thick calluses from going barefoot. Pedicurists are very special people. They willingly scrub and massage sore and swollen feet, removing the dirt that has embedded itself inside the tough, leathery skin, moisturizing all the rough edges with lotions and crèmes that make your feet feel brand new. It is a treasured gift for those who enjoy a little barefoot living. If you’ve never experienced this type of foot washing, I would highly recommend it.

When Jesus washed His disciples’ feet, He did so much more than wash away the dirt that had caked around their sandals. This one act of love expressed so much more than words could ever say. In this culture, people got dirty every day outside on unpaved paths and in the fields. When they entered the home for the evening meal, their feet and hands were filthy. Customarily, a servant would greet each guest at the door, and offer them a towel and basin to wash their hands and feet. Jesus took it upon Himself to kneel down before His disciples, and quietly wash away the dirt that had collected on their feet. What kind of love is this?

Jesus is washing away more than just a little dirt. He literally softened the hardened hearts of His people, by removing the thick calluses of sin that kept them from experiencing a brand new life in Him. In this genuine act of humility and love, Christ completely cleansed and made whole broken and well-worn hearts; through His healing touch and power. All of us need to experience the healing touch of Jesus, not only on our dirty feet, but for every aspect of our lives.

It’s time to take your shoes off and experience a little barefoot living in the presence of the Lord. He will cleanse and make you whole today, if you will simply ask Him.

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.

Don't let the devil make you do it

Today’s Reading: John 13:2(NIV)

2 The evening meal was being served, and the devil had already prompted Judas Iscariot, son of Simon, to betray Jesus.

Good morning!

I think we all probably have a little bit of Judas in us. Maybe it’s just me. I know I have my moments, when the words that spew from my mouth come quicker than I can catch and retain them. I attended a funeral service yesterday for a woman with whom I hold a great deal of respect. Sylvia lived her life by helping others. She was a loving mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend to many. But the thing that made Sylvia so unique was how she never had a harsh word for anyone. She was truly kind-hearted person and never was cruel, especially with her words. What a testimony to a life well-lived! Sylvia emulated the spiritual gifts of kindness and goodness, patience and self-control, in every aspect of her living and dying.

I sometimes wonder about Judas’ motivation. Honestly, I don’t think he was trying to frame Jesus. I think Judas must have thought if he could just convince Jesus to confront the Roman authorities, He would speak and they would listen to Him and things would change. He was eager for Jesus to act, to overthrow Roman rule once and for all. Even after three years in His presence, Judas didn’t get it. He didn’t see the master plan. Judas couldn’t understand that even after he betrayed the Lord, there would have been forgiveness for him, had he asked and believed. It is an ongoing debate within theological circles about Judas’ intent and motivation. Yet, when I look at this man’s life and compare it to my own, I realize I could have been him.

Comedian Flip Wilson may have coined the phrase, “The devil made me do it!” but did you know it was Scriptural? Even during the evening meal, Satan was tempting Judas to betray the Lord. Judas knew he had a window of opportunity to connect the Roman guard with Jesus’ whereabouts. Did he want Jesus to die? Do you think he realized what was going to happen?

Today is a very good day to remember that the choices we make have lifelong consequences; not only for ourselves but for all those we know and love. We make decisions each day. We must remember just how easy it is to slip into sin, especially when we take our eyes off Jesus and focus on our own personal agenda and desires.

Don’t let the devil make you do it. Just say no, in Jesus’ name.

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 full extent of His love

Today’s Reading: John 13:1(NIV)

1 It was just before the Passover Feast. Jesus knew that the time had come for Him to leave this world and go to the Father. Having loved His own who were in the world, He now showed them the full extent of His love.

Good morning!

I had a dream last night. I was watching an old black and white rerun on television. The story was about the life and death of someone I thought I knew. There were no masterful touch ups, no obvious second takes in this show. The truth of his reclusive life was revealed without sweet sugar-coating. This was a documentary film, revealing a life of one whose sad existence went seemingly unnoticed by the world around him. It told the story of who he was, what he had become, and how he might be remembered, if anyone cared to remember him at all.

I entered the room alone, lined with empty chairs. There were no flowers along the walls near the casket. There was no one to speak words to, no bereaved ones to comfort. The deafening silence was so shrill that it hurt my ears to hear. No one seemed to care he was gone.

My mind began to wander as I thought about what it might be like to die, having no one there to miss me. What if the poor choices I made in life far surpassed any tangible memory of the goodness God planted inside my heart? If the demons that destroyed my earthly flesh continued to hold me in solitary confinement for all eternity, what could I possibly have to look forward to in death? Would my soul rest in peace? Would my soul rest at all?

Suddenly, the scene changed. A pastor, dressed in a black tweed suit, stood at the head of the dead man’s casket. His feet planted on a soggy, rain-drenched tarp, he spoke words of hope into the thick, stormy air. The wind was whipping wildly around the white funeral tent, where a few blank faces stared out into the pouring rain. He said. “We are here today to grieve the things that could have been. We write our own funeral sermons by the life we choose to live. God Almighty is crying today for this precious child, and the heavens have opened up with healing rain.” In that breathless moment, when I thought my own heart would break with grief for a man who I did not know, I watched in astonishment as the light of life moved through the garden gate. Coming toward the casket, His nail-scarred hands were reaching out in love, extending eternal friendship to the one the world had forgotten to love. I heard my Jesus say, “Rise up, dear one. Today, you will walk with me in paradise.”

He lived his earthly life in black and white. In the fleeting moments preceding his very last breath, this man made a deathbed confession that only God would hear and understand. How could a loving Father send His only Son to bear the shame of a sinful world on a cruel cross? The answer is clear. Jesus willingly came for the sick, the road weary and the lost. His love reaches beyond human understanding or life experience. Jesus died for the friendless. He lives so we can live again with Him.

At the end of our earthly journey, there is a new beginning. As the memory of this earthly life was washed away, I saw Him take hold of the Savior’s hand. They walked together through the garden, disappearing in the rain. Jesus Christ came to show the full extent of His love, not just for some, but for all who will cry out to Him in faith.

I woke up this morning with hope in my heart.

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.

Perfect love

Today’s Reading: John 12:48-50(NIV)

48 [Jesus said,] “There is a judge for the one who rejects me and does not accept my words; that very word which I spoke will condemn him at the last day. 49 For I did not speak of my own accord, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and how to say it. 50 I know that His command leads to eternal life. So whatever I say is just what the Father has told me to say.”

Good morning!

I’ve been thinking a lot of life and death this week. I lost my cousin Jeff yesterday. He had been ill and had suffered for many years. His physical body is at rest now. I grieve for his family, who bore the responsibility of caring for him throughout his illness and death. My aunt, who is 86 years old, cared for Jeff in her home. There is a unique and special bond between a mother and child. Mothers seem to have the uncanny ability to see all the potential and possibility, believing in a better day for their child’s life. My aunt never gave up hoping her son would one day be completely healed. Now, he is.

Jesus brought a message of hope straight from the Father’s heart to the world. He did not come to judge the world, but to save it. He bore the Father’s message of perfect love to humanity. It is His message of eternal life, and Jesus continues to offer everlasting hope to all who will hear and believe. Isn’t it amazing how much the Father loves us? He didn’t give up on us when we were suffering in our sin. God didn’t turn His back on the lost and lonely. The Father sent His very best to restore His people to health and wholeness. He longs for all of us to be restored in His love, and He is the only One who has the power to do it.

The love of the Father, revealed through Jesus the Son, is emulated through the helping hands of caring hearts. They choose to believe in the potential and possibility for every hurting human soul. You can see the love of Christ actively working through the ones who daily care for the needs of others. It is that experience of being intimately loved by God that teaches us how to reach out and love each other. May you find complete healing and wholeness in the perfect love of 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.

Your purpose in life

Today’s Reading: John 12:47(NIV)

47 [Jesus said,] “As for the person who hears my words but does not keep them, I do not judge him. For I did not come to judge the world, but to save it.”

Good morning!

It is good thing to know your purpose in life. This week, I completed a nine-credit hour, twelve week quarter cluster at Lindenwood University. The World Religions cluster was one of the most interesting studies I’ve taken. We focused our thoughts on many different faith traditions, cultures, and the historical thread linking generations in faith. There was a great deal of reading to do each week and the classroom discussions were engaging. I found myself leaving this class with many more questions than answers. There is so much to learn in life and so little time in which to assimilate it.

I’ve watched from afar and admired my husband’s tenacity and determination to follow His call to ministry, from the age of seventeen years. I will soon be fifty years old, and I’m still trying to discover who I will be when I grow up. My heart was stirred as I listened to the instructor’s closing comments in Monday evening’s class. He talked about matters of faith and how one perceives call; how His life’s work has been divinely directed, even when he wasn’t completely certain of the next steps to take. He gave me hope in knowing that the final goal, while extraordinarily important, is not the pinnacle – it is the journey there that makes all the difference.

Jesus knew, without a doubt, His purpose for living in human flesh. He did not come to judge the world in its broken state, the mistakes of its past, or the future fumbling of the baton. He came for one reason - to save the world from total separation to the Father of light. Jesus gave Himself as a perfect and holy sacrifice for the sins of the world, not judging but loving us in perfect love. How hard is it for you to love the ones who hurt you? To care about the ones who want nothing good for your life? To be willing to allow another hardened human heart to drive nails into your flesh and leave you hanging on a splintery piece of wood to die?

At the end of my presentation in class on Monday, I posed a question to the class: In one sentence, tell me your purpose for living. Are you able to answer this question 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.

Guiding light

Today’s Reading: John 12:44-46(NIV)

44 The Jesus cried out, “When a man believes in me, he does not believe in me only, but in the One who sent me. 45 When he looks at me, he sees the one who sent me. 46 I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.”

Good morning!

Last night, one solitary flame of hope and hundreds of brightly shining luminary candles lit the way for the 2008 American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. I walked alongside my mother, a breast cancer survivor, and my daughter, a cervical cancer survivor, around the track at Fox High School in Arnold, Missouri. People lined the perimeter of the race track and applauded for the cancer survivors. We couldn’t help but remember the ones who died and now walk silently with us in our hearts and minds. I thought about Pastor Jim and how his faith walk made an impact on so many people in Missouri. Every luminary represents a human heart struggling with a disease that is no respecter of age. There were children walking the track, riding in wheelchairs, and some who were carried in the arms of their parents. It is no secret they are fighting for their lives. One family waited by the edge of the track with teddy bears, and as the children walked by, they were given a new furry friend to love. Tears of sadness and joy dripped from faces in the crowd. I did not know their names, but I recognized them by their love. This experience was a rare and holy moment, and a precious memory I will cherish for the rest of my days.

Can you imagine seeing holy hearts on fire as they heard the words of Jesus that day in Jerusalem? They must have burned like tiny luminary candles, when they realized they were seeing God Almighty in the flesh. Jesus is the light of the world, and when we see the light for what it is, we see the Father of light. It is His light that makes our pathway clear. It is His light that draws us together in love. We can make the journey together without fear, knowing the light of life is leading the way. As I walked around the high school track last night, I wondered if I was getting a tiny taste of the agape love I will one day experience as I walk with my Savior along the golden streets of heaven.

Cancer is one of the dirtiest words I know. I hate what this disease does to people’s lives. I long to see it cured once and for all, and I will continue to walk the path for a cure and I will work to raise much needed research dollars for the day when this insidious disease will be a thing of the past. Isn’t it good to know that we have a Savior who does not leave us alone in the dark? Jesus walks with us, instilling hope for healing, purpose for each new day, and His promise of new life in His holy presence forever. If you are facing cancer today, you do not have to do this alone. Ask Jesus Christ to be your guiding light.

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.

Loving you more

Today’s Reading: John 12:42-43(NIV)

42 Yet at the same time many even among the leaders believed in Him. But because of the Pharisees, they would not confess their faith for fear they would be put out of the synagogue; 43 for they loved praise from men more than praise from God.

Good morning!

One of my mother’s favorite sayings is, “If you can’t say anything nice about someone, just don’t say anything at all.” Her words motivated me to look for something good in every person I know. A genuine and heartfelt compliment is far-reaching and can turn an unhappy attitude into a joy-filled moment. People appreciate recognition for their work and sacrifice. It’s nice to know you are loved.

Yet, there are times when we take human praise to the extreme. With each passing day, I become acutely aware that there is only One worth pleasing. It will not matter what my family or friends think of me when I stand before the Lord on judgment day. God sees my heart; He hears the words I speak, and the motivation behind them. He not only observes what I do each day – He knows what I don’t do. He has a handle on whether I am acting selflessly or out of pure selfishness. He knows whether my motivation is sincere or fake. God knows whether I’m seeking to praise and glorify Him, or whether I am seeking to receive praise from others, thereby glorifying myself. Have you ever asked God in prayer to reveal what He sees in you to your heart?

I have learned when I cannot sleep, there is a spiritual reason why. Most often, God calls me out of slumber to pray for someone whom I may or may not know. I’m learning to how to pray the prayers He would have me pray when I feel that Holy Spirit nudge. Last night was one of those long nights of the soul. I have been grieving over the floods and tornadoes in the Midwest; for the Boy Scouts and their families who lost their lives while attending camp this week. Downtown Cedar Rapids is under water today and more rain is expected. Peoples’ livelihoods are literally being washed away as homes and businesses are destroyed. The agony experienced in the Midwest is just a minute part of the terrors reaching around our world today. The earth is shifting gears; the seasons are changing rapidly. Can you see the changes occurring where you live?

There were a lot of people who believed in Christ’s salvation message. They heard Him, saw His work, and were convinced. But because they were afraid to speak the truth in love, they chose to keep silent so to retain the respect of their community of faith. Have you ever stopped short of sharing your faith for fear of judgment by others?

Father, help us live what we believe. Teach us how to love you more than we love ourselves. Help us forego our desire for human praise. The only heart we long to please is yours. Help us find ways to care for those who have lost so much in the storms of life, especially those who have lost all hope. If we are willing to endure the scrutiny of human judgment, we can truly become your hands and feet in a world that desperately longs for Your mercy today. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.

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.

Healing hearts

Today’s Reading: John 12:39-40(NIV)

39 For this reason they could not believe, because, as Isaiah says elsewhere: 40 “He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes nor understand with their hearts, nor turn – and I would heal them.”

Isaiah 6:9-10(NIV)

9 He said, “Go and tell the people: “’Be ever hearing, but never understanding; be ever seeing but never perceiving. 10 Make the heart of this people calloused; make their ears dull and close their eyes. Otherwise they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn and be healed.’”

Good morning!

What goes together like peanut butter and jelly on a slice of fresh-baked bread? Children and scrapes on the hard playground asphalt. Children, concrete and scrapes seem to go hand-in-hand. Our home was situated on a circle drive. We were at the end of a dead-end street, and this became a perfect place to play outside with my friends. It was a quiet neighborhood, secluded from the rest of the busy world. Every afternoon, the circle would erupt with activity as we played hopscotch, kickball and tag outside. A large weeping willow tree grew tall in the center of that turnabout, providing a shady respite on a warm summer’s day. We had our very own secret playhouse underneath those long, dangling branches. Inevitably, one of us would slip and fall while running across the pavement. My mother kept the Bactine®, a bag of cotton balls and Band-Aids® handy. She was always outside, tending to someone’s scraped knee or elbow.

I’ve had a few scrapes in life. In fact, I wear many of these scars today. I don’t think a day went by when I didn’t pick up a new bruise or cut playing outside. The scabs on my knees and elbows never really got a chance to fully heal. I would invariably fall and scrape up my arms and legs in the exact same place I did the day before. Some of those scars have become calloused over the years, where the skin is leathery and taut from over exposure, wear and tear. Do your scars bring back memories of days gone by?

God whispered in Isaiah’s ear approximately seven hundred years before Jesus Christ was born in Bethlehem. He said to Isaiah, Go and tell the people that their calloused and hard hearts are getting in the way of seeing and hearing my message of salvation. They bear the deep scars of sin and shame, of disobedience and rebellion. Yet, even when they see me, they do not understand; they hear me, but cannot perceive my Word. If they would just stop and turn around, I would heal their scarred and calloused hearts once and for all. Isaiah knew the Savior was coming. He had the Father’s Word on it.

Is your broken heart so calloused today that you cannot hear the voice of God whispering in your ear, “I love you, dear child. If you let me, I will heal your scars once and for all. Turn around; come home.”

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 arm of God

Today’s Reading: John 12:37-38(NIV)

37 Even after Jesus had done all these miraculous signs in their presence, they still would not believe in Him. 38 This was to fulfill the word of Isaiah the prophet: “Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?”

Good morning!

Do you ever wonder what God’s arm might look like?

I’m learning a great deal in the World Religions cluster I am taking this quarter. There are many fascinating religious traditions to explore; yet, it is the non-religious traditions that totally have me puzzled. One such belief system teaches that every facet of life can and should be proven with tangible, physical evidence. Therefore, if the existence of a holy God cannot be proven with pure fact, then it raises enough doubt in the minds of some human beings to question whether God exists at all. “I don’t know; therefore, it is not possible” is a philosophy embraced by many highly intelligent, well-educated people. There seems to be a clear disconnect between faith and reason. This is not a new way of thinking. According to Isaiah, this mindset has existed for thousands of years.

On the other hand, I cannot imagine my life without the love of God in it, especially given the world I live in today. I see walking, talking miracles all around me. Every morning when I awake, I realize I’ve been given a brand new day to enjoy. I see His beauty in nature and I know the arm of God alive and well in the world. I experience God’s love through my children and grandchildren. They are proof positive of His amazing grace.

Isaiah said, “Lord, who has believed our message and to whom has the arm of the Lord been revealed?” Jesus, Almighty God in human flesh, reveals the arm of God in every aspect of His earthly life. People witnessed unimaginable physical and emotional healing; they saw dead people raised to life again. They heard His teaching, and observed the impact He made upon the lives of family members and friends; yet, many walked away unconvinced, refusing to believe.

It is His holy connection that draws us together in love. We extend the arm of God when we choose to make a lasting difference in the life of another human heart. We build homes for the homeless, feed hungry children and provide medical care for the sick and infirm. Can you imagine what the arms of Jesus Christ must have looked like as He stretched them out on a crossbeam of splintered wood? Jesus surrendered His earthly life to offer new life for a sin-sick humanity. When Jesus conquered sin and death, His earthly body was “high, and lifted up,” nailed to a Roman cross of shame. It was at that moment when the arm of God literally embraced the world.

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.

There's no place like home

Today’s Reading: John 12:35-36(NIV)

35 Then Jesus told them, “You are going to have the light just a little while longer. Walk while you have the light, before darkness overtakes you. The man who walks in the dark does not know where he is going. 36 Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light.” When He had finished speaking, Jesus left and hid himself from them.

Good morning!

In the movie, The Wizard of Oz, young Dorothy is longing for home. Clicking the heels of her ruby red slippers, with fingers crossed and eyes closed, every heart string understood her need as she cried, “There’s no place like home; there’s no place like home.” Last night, Jeff and I returned home from the Missouri Area Conference of the United Methodist Church, an annual meeting that I look forward to every year. It is great catching up to friends in ministry across the state, hearing the wonderful testimonies of new life extending within Missouri United Methodism, and taking some time away from our churches to learn and grow, and encourage one another as we step forward in faith. I had a wonderful time, and yet, this morning, as I write, I share the sentiment of my young friend Dorothy – There is no place like home.

If you’ve ever stayed away from home for a conference or vacation, you know what it is like to try to get a good night’s rest in a strange place. We stayed in a hotel that had all the amenities of home - a full kitchen, sitting room, and a great big bed to sleep in. It was very similar to being at home, but it wasn’t home. There were unfamiliar noises in the dark – I found it difficult to move from one room to the other without a flashlight to guide my steps. And when the thunderstorms came late at night, it became very hard to sleep.

Jesus knew He was heading home soon. The light of life would soon be extinguished and the darkness would fall upon the people He loves. Jesus knew they would soon be longing for some sense of familiarity, yet they would find themselves feeling their way in the darkness. It would not always be a comfortable existence, in the places where they lived. There would be times when Christ’s followers would yearn for His light, but it would be hard to see, Jesus knew what was coming and He did His best to prepare them for the dark, when they would yearn for His light to return and the promise of a new day fulfilled. He knew how they would long to go home.

Jesus said, “Put your trust in the light while you have it, so that you may become sons of light.” It is His light that illuminates our hearts! When we have His light to guide us, we can rest assured that even when we move into not so familiar surroundings, the light of Christ is with us, guarding and guiding the way. Your surroundings may not be very comfortable right now. You may be feeling a little bit homesick today. I have good news for you! The light of Christ is with us, and if we choose to trust Him completely, His light will become our light and it will illuminate The Way home.

There is no place like home, when your home is with 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.

The end result

Today’s Reading: John 12:31-32(NIV)

[Jesus said,] 31 “Now is the time for judgment on this world, now the prince of this world will be driven out. 32 But I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all men to myself.”

Good morning!

Last weekend, my husband Jeff and son David put together a set of bookshelves for our family room. We are avid readers, and the one thing we seem to lack is bookshelf space. I stopped by my favorite furniture store and purchased yet another set of cherry-stained ladder bookshelves to add to our collection. When the shelves were delivered, the kit came unassembled. Our son David has become pretty good at putting bookshelves together. He has had plenty of practice! While the assembly is similar to the other sets we own, there seems to be inconsistencies in cut and pattern. Sometimes, we have a hard time visualizing how the finished piece will look. In our limited vision, we only see individual parts and pieces. We wonder how we will use all those screws supplied with the kit. Once David moved the shelves to an upright position, they looked rather wobbly and insecure. It was not until David fastened the solid cross beam at the back of the unit that the shelves took its finished form. The crossbeam gave the needed support to these bookshelves so they could stand strong under the heavy weight of the added books on its shelves.

Do you ever struggle to see the end result?

Jesus was speaking about his imminent death and resurrection. He had come to earth for this moment in time – to bring judgment upon the prince of the world and drive him out of humanity’s hearts. Christ would be lifted up from the earth on a crossbeam, and all the world would be drawn to Him. Everyone there was thinking the same thing: Jesus had come to Jerusalem to overthrow the Roman government. His rule would usher in a season of peace and prosperity; persecution would finally come to an end. They could see the plan unfold, piece by piece; yet, they did not understand the Master’s perfect plan of salvation.

It took a crossbeam to hold the weight of humanity’s sin on a tree. It took the perfect sacrifice of Jesus Christ to reconcile sinful hearts to a sinless Father. It was His love that He chose to die on the cross to save you and me our present state of sin and separation. Without this sacrifice, we wouldn’t have a solid foundation to stand on. It is the crossbeam that draws our eyes toward Christ. Can you see the end result? Do you understand what Jesus Christ has done for 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 voice of benefit

Today’s Reading: John 12:30(NIV)

30 Jesus said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine.”

Good morning!

How many voices do you hear in the course of a day? I spend a good portion of my day reading and assimilating the thoughts and words of others. I review online news clips, study required texts for school, and process legal correspondence and documents at work. I receive and read approximately 60-100 e-mail messages a day. I’ve not yet taken up text messaging for this very reason. It’s all I can do just to get through the daily e-mail messages and respond. I listen to the kind voice of my supervisor, giving me instructions related to work projects. I have a great supervisor at work; I respect her thoughts and follow her directions to the best of my ability. It is a blessing to work with her. I love to listen to the voices of my children as they call me on my cell, and I laugh with my grandchildren, who absolutely love to call their Granny Deb up just to jabber in baby lingo. I review the recorded messages on my home phone at night and return phone calls. I can hear and recognize the voices at the other end of the telephone line. Of all the voices I listen to each day, I love the sound of my husband’s voice. He has a calming effect in my life. His voice is clear, understandable, and gentle. When all of the other voices in my life bring confusion or frustration, Jeff’s voice is the voice I listen to above all others.

There is One voice that speaks above every human voice we hear. It is God’s eternal voice. He conveys Himself to each of us through His Word, in prayer, and through the beauty of His created work. I listen for the beautiful voice of the Lord each day. I wait for His presence to consume my heart each morning when I awake. He is the first voice I hear, and His voice is the last sound of the evening, as I whisper my confessions and prayers of thanksgiving at night just before I fall asleep. Sometimes, God’s voice speaks to my heart in the stillness of the night. I can hear Him calling in my dreams. I feel His presence ever near. His Word will come to me in a moment of prayer and praise, and I recognize He is speaking directly to my heart. I know that one sweet day I will hear His voice as easily as I hear the human voices of my family and friends now. This is the day I will walk with Christ forever in His holy presence. I will live in a place where His light will be the only light I see, and where His sweet whisper will fulfill my heart’s every longing.

When God cried out from the heavens, Jesus turned to His disciples and said, “This voice was for your benefit, not mine.” The voice of God speaks today, and His voice is for our benefit. Will we choose to listen and hear Him?

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.

Voice of thunder

Today’s Reading: John 12:28-29(NIV)

[Jesus said,] 28 “Father, glorify your name!” Then a voice came from heaven, “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” 29 The crowd that was there and heard it said it had thundered; others said an angel had spoken to them.

Good morning!

Thunder speaks! Late at night in the middle of a storm, the foundation of our home shakes as thunder peals across the dark sky. On a stormy night, it was not uncommon to have three little Spaulding prototypes crawl into bed with Mom and Dad. It became a true adventure when the dogs and cats joined us too. No one in our family slept through those midnight thunderstorms. It did, however, bring a whole new meaning to the concept of togetherness!

A large clap of thunder peals in the heavens and suddenly our electricity goes out. An amazing light show begins to reveal itself across the black sky, as the wind rattles the windows and rain beats down the newly planted flowers outside. In a torrential storm, golf-ball sized hail pellets leave their marks on our siding, roofs and car hoods. We’ve experienced a lot of thunderstorms here in the Midwest. Do you think God may be trying to get our attention?

Thunder bears a distinct and mighty voice – it may be very scary for some and comforting to others. Greek philosopher Aristotle speculated that the sound of thunder was caused by the collision of clouds. Modern science teaches that the sound of thunder is a supersonic shock wave caused from a sudden increase in the temperature and pressure that lightning produces in the air. It can begin as a low rumble, with tremors, and increase to a deafening loud boom that sounds like an explosive device detonating. The voice of thunder causes me to look up and listen. Are you captivated by the sight and sounds of the thunderstorm?

The voice from heaven sounded like the voice of angel to those who stood with Jesus that day in Jerusalem. When He shouted, “Father, glorify Your name,” the voice of thunder could be heard pealing across the heavens. It said, “I have glorified it, and will glorify it again.” Can you hear the voice of God speak in the thunderstorm 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.

Troubled heart

Today’s Reading: John 12:27-28(NIV)

[Jesus said,] 27 “Now my heart is troubled, what shall I say? ‘Father, save me from this hour?’ No, it was for this very reason I cam to this hour. 28 Father, glorify your name!”

Good morning!

Can you imagine what it might be like if you knew ahead of time how and when your earthly life would begin and end? It is a great gift to live out our days to its fullest measure, trusting in a greater plan beyond our realm of comprehension. Most everyone I’ve asked cannot remember their actual birth, only the stories told to them by their parents. It helps today to have colorful photograph scrapbooks and cinematography to aid us in knowing what it was like on the day we were born. We seemingly have no control over our first or last breath of air. Medical advances and technology have assisted many parents in planning for a specific day when their children are to be delivered. Near-perfect mathematical calculations, coupled with sophisticated ultrasound technology and labor-inducing medications remove the surprise element from the impending moment of birth. Not only do we know the day, we often know the sex of the child to be born far ahead of baby's first appearance.

It’s not quite as easy calculating the exact moment of death. We know it is coming – a life cycle that completes itself as we move from this world into the eternal. Why is it difficult for human beings to embrace life’s endings the way we embrace its beginnings?

It is like watching a rerun over and over again. Or starting a book with the last chapter first – if we know how the story will end, will the beginning really matter? Are you someone who longs to know how the story will end, before it begins?

Jesus had a troubled heart. Fully human and fully divine, the Son of God knew what was coming. He was with the Father in the beginning. He will be with the Father in the end. Jesus knew the moment He would leave His heavenly throne and enter into the womb of a virgin. He knew the time ordained for His earthly life. Every second mattered; every Word vitally important. Jesus came to give life, to redeem the lost, and leave an eternal path for humanity to follow. His earthly life was nearing completion. He knew the day and hour and how His last earthly breath would be spent. Jesus had a troubled heart, yet He chose to proclaim, “Father, glorify Your name!”

We are not promised tomorrow; each new day is a gift hand-crafted for you. We can walk humbly along the path that God has prepared for us, praying the Word of our Lord this morning as we arise: Lord, thank you for today. Help me walk in The Way that You have planned for me. I trust You to lead me wherever You choose, knowing Your purpose is greater than my limited perception. I trust You for this day, dear Lord. Father, glorify Your name!

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.