Hand-holding session

Today’s Reading: Acts 2:3-4 (NIV)

3 They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. 4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.

Good morning!

For what little good it did, it appeared as if I were speaking in gibberish. No one seemed to understand what it was I was trying to convey. Have you ever felt passionate about sharing faith in Christ; yet, when you try to convey it, the words seem to fall upon deaf ears? How I praise the Lord for His perfect timing and master plan!

A good example is what happens when we try to teach Christ-like love to little children. Quite often, they hear what you are saying, but don’t really want to get it. This seems to be a character trait of all God’s children, no matter what our age! Our family used to take long road trips each summer with our wee ones cloistered in the back seat, restrained in seat belts and shoulder harnesses. After awhile, the children stopped listening, and it didn’t take long for them to become cranky and restless. They would pick on each other incessantly until I would say in my stern, motherly voice, “We will hold hands until we can love and respect each other for real! Now sit still, and show your brother some love!” I longed for little Holy Spirit fire - it could do us all some good about now. Have you ever been forced to hold hands with someone whose beliefs are different from yours? Have you ever reached out to someone who truly dislikes you and love them unconditionally, just like Jesus Christ loves you? Maybe we need to try a little world-wide hand-holding session today. Whose hand do you need to reach out and take in yours today?

When the Holy Spirit came on the day of Pentecost, people started holding hands and hearts around the world for the very first time. Through the miraculous enabling of the Spirit, the Word was spoken in other tongues, and all who were present could really hear and understand the Gospel message in words that made real sense. There was no gibberish going on here! The Apostles were able to share faith in a meaningful and life-changing way, and thousands were converted in that breathtaking moment to Jesus Christ.

How far would you be willing to go to offer Christ’s love to the people whom the Father has placed in your life? The Holy Spirit power helps link hands and hearts with family members, friends, co-workers, and even the strangers who do not yet know you or the Jesus whom you serve. He equips us to share Christ with people of all nations, races and ages. What happened on the day of Pentecost is still happening right now. And all you have to do to receive His Holy Spirit power is to ask the Father for it…

Dear Father, I pray today for an outpouring of your Holy Spirit. Fill us up with Your Word, so that we may share the love of your Son, Jesus Christ with the world! Give us a desire and determination to reach outside our personal comfort zone and hold hands with our neighbors, especially the ones with whom we do not see eye to eye. Give us your eternal love language today, for it is only Your Word that draws all people to you. I ask this in the name of my precious Savior and Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who died to save us all, Amen.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Violent wind

Today’s Reading: Acts 2:2 (NIV)

Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting.

Good morning!

As I walked across the hospital parking lot last night, the winds were so strong that I felt it might lift me up and carry me clear across the street. I’m certainly not a feather weight, and the mystery of something unseen yet so strong has always been a true fascination for me. It is tornado season in the Midwest. We are witnesses to its path of destruction caused in part, by violent winds.

If you’ve ever heard a violent wind, you may recall the loud and scary sound it makes. When I was a little girl, a tornado ripped through the subdivision where we lived. When the siren sounded, we went immediately to the basement and sat huddled together in a corner, listening intently to the sounds of a mighty rushing wind. The noise reminds me of a freight train passing through our back yard. Our house was shaking and even the concrete flooring was vibrating underneath our feet. The wind was so loud! We couldn’t carry on a normal conversation even sitting as close as we were to each other. This was not the time to whisper a silent prayer. I prayed to the Lord out loud using my outside voice. Within two to three minutes, the noise stopped and the shaking subsided. We climbed the stairs and looked outside our living room picture window. Our home had survived the storm while several neighbors had suffered roof and window damage. We found shattered pieces of glass and shingles strewn across our front yard. I remember seeing trees limbs and debris all across the street. Just six blocks away, a couple of homes had been completely demolished. In a matter of seconds, our lives had suddenly changed.

It is hard to imagine what the Apostles heard that day, as the sound of God’s mighty rushing wind entered the place where they were praying. Sometimes the Father has to shake us up a bit to get our undivided attention. He is present and working in the power of the Holy Spirit; the One who picks us up and propels us into mission and ministry – we cannot see it or fully explain it, yet we know He is here. When the Holy Spirit wind kicks up, He can lift even the heaviest heart and carry it high and above the daily problems we face. Sinfulness is exposed and destroyed, addictions are broken, bodies and minds are miraculously healed, and human hearts are drawn deeper in love through Christ Jesus. When the Holy Spirit wind gets hold of your heart, everything changes.

Do not fear the Holy Spirit winds whipping around you today. The Father has sent His Spirit as a precious gift, to convict us of wrong thoughts and actions. He comforts us with the love of Jesus Christ. He will not let you go, especially when you feel helpless and ill-equipped to stand the storms you face in life. The Holy Spirit frees us to boldly speak of God’s love to everyone, everywhere. When the sound of a mighty rushing wind picks you up and propels you into kingdom work, be grateful for the gift that lives within you. You may not be able to adequately explain it, but just like a violent wind, we do not have to see it to know it is here.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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 gathering table

Today’s Reading: Acts 2:1 (NIV)

When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.

Good morning!

I remember the day I first saw the gathering table on display at the furniture store. The dark wood grain of the table and the soft leather chairs immediately caught my eye. I liked how this table seated eight people comfortably; it took up less space than my own kitchen table; yet, it sat two more people. It was all I could do to dial Jeff’s cell phone quickly enough. “Honey,” I exclaimed, “I’ve found the perfect table for our kitchen!” The salesman provided me with some information on the table; its manufacturer, warranty, and lot number. I carried the materials home for Jeff to review, and I prayed over this table for almost a year before we decided to place our final order. I would say that the selection of a gathering table is the single most important piece of furniture you will ever purchase.

My grandmother’s table was by far, the largest table I had ever seen. It had to be especially made just for her. This table seated sixteen people. It took up the entire room; there was a small perimeter of walking space between the table, chairs, and wood burning stove and sink. I watched my grandmother roll pie dough on this table top; she and the girls would gather around the table to chop vegetables and prepare fruits for canning. It took two people on either side to wipe the table down after meal preparation. There was always room at the gathering table for one more hungry soul. The prayers that were prayed in around this table still resonate in my heart today. Homework was completed here; timeless stories of family and friends were told at the table. My favorite memories were of Saturday nights, when Grandmother would serve piping hot cups of coffee and tea with homemade chocolate chunk cookies to the women and children at the table. Some of us played Canasta and Crazy Eights, while others observed the revelry as they sat crocheting baby blankets and sweaters. There was no place I would rather be than surrounded by my family at the gathering table.

Something extraordinary happens when we come together at the gathering table. On the day of Pentecost, the family was gathered all together in one place. In my minds’ eye, I can see the disciples relaxing around the gathering table, sharing stories of Jesus with each other. They were all together in one place, placing their hopes and fears on the table for all to see. Folks were sitting shoulder to shoulder; some were joining hands while others embraced in holy hugs. No one was turned away from Christ’s everlasting love, freely served to all in the bread and the wine.

My favorite time of the week is when our evangelism team gathers around the gathering table in prayer. Sometimes it feels as if the parsonage roof is going to blow away in the swirling and twirling of His Holy Spirit comfort. Whenever I come to the gathering table, I know my Savior is waiting there for me. He allows me to bring life’s backpack of stuff and dump it out for Him to see. Jesus hears and answers my every prayer. I know that one day His precious family will all be gathered together again in one place at the banqueting table, with Jesus Christ seated at the head. Until then, we come together to share our very lives, enjoying the meal that has been set before us, as we tell the stories of Jesus and wait for the Father’s will to be done at the gathering table.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Decision making tools

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:23-26 (NIV)

23 So they proposed two men: Joseph called Barsabbas (also known as Justus) and Matthias. 24 Then they prayed, “Lord you know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two you have chosen 25 to take over this apostolic ministry, which Judas left to go where he belongs. 26 Then they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias; so he was added to the eleven apostles.

Good morning!

The resumes of two strong candidates were handed out at the department meeting for review. Both applicants had received a good education and held diplomas for their work at the university. Each had experienced life in the work place and brought to the table a wealth of professional experience with former employers. Both candidates possessed the skill sets necessary to meet the needs of the open position. A decision must be made. How would you decide which candidate to choose?

The disciples knew better than to trust their own judgment. Personal preference and posturing for position would only add to the confusion of their ultimate decision. They had two very qualified candidates, Justus and Matthias, to fill the open position left by Judas Iscariot. Bowing in prayer, they asked the Lord to show them which person He had chosen to take on this apostolic ministry. Then, they cast lots, and the lot fell to Matthias.

Bible scholars teach that the casting of lots is mentioned approximately seventy times in the Old Testament and seven times in the New Testament. In the Old Testament, the casting of lots was used most often to determine one’s inheritance. God instructed His people to cast lots to determine His will in particular situations. Lots were cast to determine who would fill certain positions of service in the Temple. Unfortunately, it became a form of gambling and a game to many, as evidenced by the Roman soldiers when they divided the Lord’s garment amongst themselves at the foot of the cross. When the Holy Spirit came, the casting of lots was no longer necessary. Believers could simply rely upon the leading of the Holy Spirit through prayer in discernment for daily decisions and future direction.

If you have an important decision to make, I would encourage you to seek out God’s plan and purpose for your life through prayer and discernment today. God has given us the tools we need to know which way to go. Ask the Lord Jesus Christ to give you His Holy Spirit power today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Replacement needed - apply within

Today’s Reading: Acts 20b-21 (NIV)

20b and, “’May another take his place of leadership.’” 21 [Peter said,] Therefore, it is necessary to choose one of the men who have been with us the whole time the Lord Jesus went in and out among us, 22 beginning from John’s baptism to the time when Jesus was taken up from us. For one of these must become a witness with us of His resurrection.”

Good morning!

The sign on the front window said, “Replacement needed - apply within.” I turned the brass door knob and pulled on the heavy plate-glass door. I took a step of faith and used all my physical strength just to open the heavy door. Once inside, I stood staring into an open reception area, sparely decorated. I immediately noticed the stark white walls and Linoleum flooring. As I walked, I could hear the echo of my shoe heels clicking across the room. There were no chairs to sit down; no standard office decor like magazine racks or coffee tables. The natural light streaming in through the large front window was the only light inside. The entry way was spotless. I walked toward the front counter and rang the polished silver bell. A pretty little girl with golden curly hair tied with a satin white bow, appeared out of nowhere. When she reached the front desk, she stepped up on a footstool so that she could see over the top of the clean counter. “May I help you?” she asked. I thought the child looked strangely familiar, although I could not put a name with her face.

“Good morning, Miss,” I said, smiling. She stared at me. “I would like to inquire about the replacement needed sign posted in your front window.” “What are your qualifications?” she asked. I wasn’t sure exactly how to respond to her question. The sign did not detail the type of replacement needed, nor was I certain about the requirements of the open position. “Miss, I have been looking for a long, long time to find the one thing I know I am supposed to do with my life. I’m not exactly sure about the replacement position you are offering, or whether I would have any qualifications that would fit your need. I was drawn inside simply out of sheer curiosity, and it took a leap of faith for me to see whether you could use someone like me. What specific replacement help do you need?”

The little girl’s lip began to quiver, ever so slightly. I could see the crocodile tears welling up inside her big blue eyes. I fumbled for a tissue inside my black bag, and handed it to her, wondering if I had said something to upset her. “We’ve been waiting for you to come inside,” she whispered. “The qualifications necessary for the replacement position requires a willing heart. You must possess a deep desire to grow, and enough faith to open really heavy doors and the courage to walk through them.” By this time, the sunlight had filled the front room and had formed a blinding white puddle on the Linoleum flooring. Its brilliance caught the corner of my eye and I glanced away to look at it. When my gaze returned to the child, instinctively I knew her. She stood there on the footstool, clutching a baby doll in her arms. Standing beside her was my Lord and Savior; and it was His light that filled the dark room. He had wrapped his arms around the child’s shoulders, holding her steady on the footstool. I couldn’t take my eyes off of His face. And in that holy moment I recognized that the child in me. I knew I had found my life's work here.

Peter was looking for a suitable replacement disciple, someone who had experienced the life, death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. He would become a living witness to the Resurrection power.

What qualifications must you possess to be a living witness for Jesus Christ? You must have a willing heart, a deep desire to grow, and enough faith to open really heavy doors and the courage to walk through them. Have you received the Lord Jesus Christ into your heart today? If so, there is an open replacement position that only you can fill, and the Master is waiting for you to apply within right now.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

His Love that will NOT let you go

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:18-20 (NIV)

18 With the reward he got for his wickedness, Judas bought a field; there he fell headlong, his body burst open and all his intestines spilled out. 19 Everyone in Jerusalem heard about this, so they called that field in their language Akeldama, that is, Field of Blood. 20 “For,” said Peter, “it is written in the book of Psalms, ‘May his place be deserted; let there be no one to dwell in it.’”

Matthew 27:3-5 (NIV)

3 When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders. 4 “I have sinned,” he said, “for I have betrayed innocent blood.” “What is that to us?” they replied. “That’s your responsibility.” 5 So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.

Good morning!

My heart was breaking as I listened intently to the preacher’s life story. He was raised in a home where his family sold drugs to support their own addictions. He grew up watching the ones he loved daily drug themselves into the zone, a stupor where no one has to assume responsibility for their words and actions. As a young boy, his parents would have him carry the concealed illegal substances across state lines in a backpack. They were able to hide their own guilt by forcing their son to physically carry it for them. One crime led to another and it wasn’t long before the teenager found himself serving time in a state penitentiary.

A prison minister’s love for the lost made all the difference. He came each week, sharing Christ’s love with the incarcerated. The young man spent days pouring over the words of Scripture given to him during a worship service. Physically, he was locked up behind thick steel bars. When he gave his life to Christ, repented of the mistakes he had made, both knowingly and unknowingly, his soul had been set free by faith.

Once he was released, the man re-entered the world expecting never to return to the life he had once lived. He believed he could leave the sins of his father behind and begin a brand new life. It was not long before Satan’s fiery darts began striking the young Christian. He experienced a series of devastating blows – losing his first real job and realizing that potential employers want nothing to do in hiring ex-cons. With no money to pay the rent, he found himself living on the streets once again. He was completely heart-broken and disillusioned when his wife left him the day they were locked out of their apartment. In deep despair, he stopped trusting the Lord and let go of Christ’s hand, falling back into the way of life he simply despised.

Choices do have consequences. Little children who are wrongfully subjected to the sins of their parents are not responsible for their parents actions. And yet, like most little children do, we tend to blame ourselves for our parents’ poor choices, carrying the dead weight of their guilt around for years. Some experience instantaneous freedom from the sin cycle while others seem to perpetuate it over and over again as adults. Living a life of remorse and guilt will steal away your very last breath if you let it.

Judas Iscariot walked with the Lord Jesus Christ for three years. He listened to the Lord’s teaching and saw the incredible miracles happen first-hand. He knew Jesus Christ had the power to overthrow Roman rule. By making this one fatal choice, Judas set into motion a plot that could not be reversed. Scripture tells us that Judas hung himself on a tree in the field he purchased with the thirty pieces of silver; it is presumed that the rope or branch broke and his body split open upon impact and his intestines spilled all over the ground.

Can you walk away from Jesus Christ twice and be completely forgiven? This preacher would tell you unequivocally YES! Christ has the power and is willing to forgive every wrong choice we have ever made, even if, at some point, we let go of His strong hand. You see, when God forgives you, He forgives you completely. The slate is wiped clean. He doesn’t bother keeping track of your sin. You need to let go of the things that have caused you great remorse, because the Truth is this: Jesus Christ will never let you go. And once you’ve given your life to Him, He will follow you to the ends of the earth to redeem you, if you will just simply humble your heart and ask.

Don’t follow in the footsteps of Judas. Confess your sins at the foot of the cross, where you will find His love that will not let you go. Come to Jesus and live!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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 betrayer within

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:15-17 (NIV)

15 In those days Peter stood up among the believers (a group numbering about a hundred and twenty) 16 and said, “Brothers, the Scripture had to be fulfilled which the Holy Spirit spoke long ago through the mouth of David concerning Judas, who served as guide for those who arrested Jesus – 17 he was one of our number and shared in this ministry.

Good morning!

Have you ever been betrayed by a friend?

It is not easy to be hurt by someone you trust. I’ve never met anyone who has not been hurt at some point in their lives by a family member or friend. It seems to sting a whole lot more when the ones we love do and say things that cut us to the quick. The life scars that form become thick and tough, and it is nearly impossible to get past a world of hurt and pain.

This is the sad story of Judas, the betrayer. He was welcomed unconditionally into the group by Jesus and, even though he was a different kind of guy, the brothers accepted and loved him as one of their own. They didn’t always understand his thoughts about the Master, and wondered how he could have acted with such disregard after being exposed to all the same teachings and experiences while walking with Jesus in the flesh.

We may never know what Judas was truly thinking, or why he chose to act in the manner in which he did. It is sometimes easier to take at face value what little information we have about the heart of this man, and form our own judgmental conclusions.

Have you ever said or done something to someone that you would give anything to take back today? Did your actions leave deep scars embedded in the heart of someone who once loved and trusted you? Judas’ life story could have been Simon Peter’s story, or my story for that matter. It is hard for me to look at the condemned and conclude from what little I know that his soul intent was to betray our Lord into the hands of evil men. Inside the chest of the betrayer beat a bleeding and broken heart.

When I deny Jesus Christ by not loving others the way that He loves me, my heart becomes hardened, just like that of the betrayer. It is really easy to think more highly of ourselves that we should. We want to believe that we would never intentionally hurt another; yet, we often do, and we know it when it happens. We want to profess that we show unconditional Christ-like love to all people, not just our neighbors, co-workers, family and friends. How true is that statement in your life today? How far would you go to reach them if you knew their souls were at risk of eternal separation? How can we live, knowing there are people who are lost, who desperately need to know and experience the love of Christ and we choose to keep silent?

If we are truly honest with ourselves, then we can say there is a little Judas living in each of us. Here’s some really good news for a day like today: Jesus Christ carried our lame excuses, self-justification and preconceived notions that push our personal preferences and self-will ahead of God’s plan for His creation. By His stripes, we are healed. His blood was poured out for every bleeding and broken heart who knows the overwhelming pain of betrayal. We can be finally free of the Judas within when we choose to humble our hearts, confess our sin, and repent.

Please do not hesitate another minute, for every human heart needs to know the Lord Jesus Christ. Will you tell them?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Praying in my sleep

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:14 (NIV)

14 They all joined together constantly in prayer, along with the women and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brothers.

Good morning!

I woke up this morning in mid-prayer with the Lord. This is not an easy thing for me to explain, since I am still acquiring the daily benefits of the Apostle Paul’s prescription to pray without ceasing.

True confession: I like to talk – I like to talk a lot. My husband Jeff will attest to this. I function best when I’m able to think things through out loud; while Jeff digests most everything that he learns quietly, in a reflective state of mind. Speaking the words out loud often helps me understand what it is I’m experiencing. When I pray, I tend to pray out loud, and sometimes, I even read out loud, especially if I’m struggling to grasp the concept on the printed page. Sometimes, I hear the still small voice of God tenderly whisper in my ear, “Deb, honey, shut up!” Yes, I confess there are moments when God literally has had to shut my mouth so that I can hear Him speak. And I thank Him for not giving up on me, and finding rare moments of quiet stillness to breathe His holy breath into my spirit. Jesus constantly draws me back to him in prayer.

God knows it is hard for me to sit still and wait for Him to move. I like to see things happen, to witness the answers for every intercessory prayer prayed. This is definitely a control issue. My unwillingness to sit and wait upon the Lord so that He can renew my strength keeps my spirit flailing around in a nest, like a tiny baby bird, rather than soaring high in the skies on His wings. Letting go of the reign is a hard thing for me to do. Opening up to the possibilities of all that God has planned for my life is one scary adventure. If I stop to look down, my fear of heights may make me a nervous wreck and know I could fall. Waiting for His timing to spread my wings and fly has everything to do with my looking up to the Lord, and trusting His Word completely. It has absolutely nothing to do with me. When Jesus says jump, will I be willing let go and just do it?

Before the Holy Spirit baptized the disciples with holy fire, they prayed together constantly, along with Mary and the brothers. I love it when the Lord chooses to speak to me at night, when my body is at rest and my mind is open to His will. I know without a doubt that I was born to praise and worship the Lord Jesus Christ! This is my life’s work – the one thing He has asked me to do. When I’m all talked out, and I finally relinquish my control and humbly enter into His Holy presence, His Word speaks to me! There is nothing more wonderful than knowing Jesus Christ is with me always, even at night when I’m sleeping.

Do you hear the voice of Jesus calling to you at night? Allow the Lord to help guide you into a lifetime of constant prayer, even while you sleep.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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 home

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:13-14 (NIV)

13 When they arrived, they went upstairs to the room where they were staying. Those present were Peter, John, James and Andrew; Philip and Thomas, Bartholomew and Matthew; James son of Alphaeus and Simon the Zealot, and Judas son of James.

Good morning!

One of the most difficult transitions a family makes is when grown children leave home for the very first time. Our daughter Rachel lived at home and commuted back and forth to college, but we rarely saw her, as her clinical training required she stay overnight at hospitals for 24 hour shifts in various parts of the state. Every now and then, she would come home to sleep, do a little laundry and maybe eat breakfast with us leaving us again. Rachel bought a house and moved out as soon as she landed her first full-time job, two and half hours away from home. That spring, we were preparing to relocate to a new church, and we were moving another two hours away from her. I remember that awful sense that I had somehow left of piece of myself behind in that house. She knew where she could find us if she needed anything at all; yet, Rachel was making a new life for herself. Letting go is not an easy thing in this mother's heart.

The boys ended up moving in and out a couple of times before they eventually took wing and flew the coop for good. Their transitions into independence were not smooth. When our youngest son David moved out, the house became almost too quiet. It was quite an adjustment from a few short years ago, when the stability of the parsonage roof was tested with Saturday band practices in the basement, soccer games in the back yard, and the ritual pizza deliveries to the front door. I’ve embraced the quiet of our empty nest, and enjoy visiting my children and their families in their homes. It is good to know they have made their way and have found happiness in the fullness of their lives.

It is an important thing for families to come home and gather together often to celebrate holy days and remember their youth. We tend to lose touch with each other in the rigors of daily living. It is a real challenge to have all of our children, grandchildren and extended family together even at Christmas. Quite often, we all get together, but we’re so exhausted that even though we’re physically present, it is hard to reconnect because we’re emotionally drained. Holiday preparations brings us to the place where we need to be, only to find ourselves falling asleep on the comfy sofa after consuming Christmas dinner, or retiring to a spare bedroom for a late afternoon nap. It isn’t enough to be physically present if our minds are somewhere else.

It was crucial for the family of Christ to arrive together, in one place. So important, in fact, that the author took time to identify every person present by name. This is why the family of Christ gathers together each week to worship, learn and enjoy fellowship. Everyone is important to the body as a whole. We share in the joy of knowing that one day, we will all go home together to live forever in the everlasting light of Jesus.

Learn to make family time a priority. Be present, physically, emotionally and spiritually. There is nothing more important than engaging in weekly worship with the body of Christ. We need you here, and when you are not with us, our faith family is simply not the same. Come home this weekend. You have a place waiting especially for you at Faith Church.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, Deb Spaulding

All rights reserved

Articles may not be printed in any “for profit” publication without further permission by the author. Articles may be freely distributed via e-mail, reprinted in church bulletins or in other non-profit publications without further permission. Please keep this copyright and Web Site information intact with copied articles. Articles are sent originally to subscribers only. You may have received a forwarded or reprinted copy.

A Sabbath Day's Walk

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:12 (NIV)

12 Then they returned to Jerusalem from the hill called the Mount of Olives, a Sabbath day’s walk from the city.

Good morning!

How far is a Sabbath’s day walk? Bible Scholars speculate this walk could be no longer than ¾ of a mile. If you wear a pedometer to track your daily steps, you may be surprised to know just how far you walk in a day, even without purposefully exercising. Keeping your walking to a minimum of ¾ mile is very hard to do.

How far is too far to go to worship the Lord? We live approximately ½ mile from the front door of our home to the front door of Faith Church, and I do enjoy walking the subdivision to church. I will confess that I don’t walk very often, because it is difficult to provide shuttle service for friends who need a last minute lift when you are traveling on foot! Many from our Faith family drive long distances to come and worship each week. We have folks who travel from Cahokia, Illinois, the greater St. Louis area, and as far west as Wentzville and Warrenton to worship at Faith each week. I recently read a bumper sticker on the back of a car while sitting at an intersection in town. It said, “A church that is alive is worth the drive!”

In this fast-paced culture, it is not uncommon for folks to hop in their automobiles and travel here and there, especially on the Sabbath. There are sporting events, shopping sprees, family get-togethers, and even work to attend to. How many people do you know who are required to work every weekend? It seems as if our culture has all but forgotten the Father’s command to “Remember the Sabbath Day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the Lord your God. On it you shall not do any work, neither you, nor your son or daughter, nor your manservant or maidservant, nor your animals, nor the alien within your gates. For in six days the Lord made the heavens and the earth, the sea, and all that is in them, but He rested on the seventh day. Therefore, the Lord blessed the Sabbath day and made it holy.” Exodus 20:8-11 NIV

In the busyness and business of life, I have a deep desire to make each Sabbath day’s walk a holy walk. I’ve found that my Sabbath does not necessary fall every seventh day – I can enter into Sabbath rest every morning as I enter into the presence of the Lord through worship and prayer. I believe that keeping the Sabbath holy has a whole lot more to do with our mindset and heart song than with the physical mileage we burn in travel time to and from the places we go.

Won’t you join me today in a Holy Sabbath Walk with the Lord?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Is the sky falling?

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:10-11 (NIV)

10 They were looking intently up into the sky as He was going, when suddenly two men dressed in white stood beside them. 11 “Men of Galilee,” they said, “why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen Him go into heaven.”

Good morning!

I became enamored with the skies at an early age, sitting on the rich, velvety bluegrass in my back yard, counting the clouds above. There is something absolutely captivating in the sky; we sense it every time we look up. My mother used to sit outside in the back yard, and we would share a picnic lunch together while enjoying the beautiful skies above. She would read the fairy tale, Chicken Licken, and it was by far one of my favorite picnic stories. Do you remember the rhyming names of the cast of characters? Let's see - there was: Chicken Licken (or Chicken Little), Henny Penny, Lucky Ducky, Loosey Goosey (or Gander Pander), Turkey Lurkey and Foxy Loxy. I could relate best to Loosey Goosey. In fact, my mother used to call me that every now and then. Which character best describes you?

In the story, Chicken Licken fears that the sky is falling when an acorn falls from a nearby tree and bops her on the head. She frantically spreads the scary news to all the animals as she goes to tell the King. What is most interesting about this story is that it has a garden variety of endings and morals, depending upon your point of view. In one ending, the storybook animals are saved by the King’s hunting dogs. In another version, the sky actually falls and takes out Foxy Loxy. My takeaway is that I am not to be a Chicken Licken but to face my fears with faith and step out in courage each new day.

I imagine the disciples were caught up in the rapture of the moment as they watched their resurrected Savior rise up into the heavenly skies. With eyes fixed upon the clouds above, their mouths gaping wide open; it took two men dressed in brilliant white to bring them back down to earth. “Why are you standing here looking up?” they questioned the believers. “This Jesus who was taken up will return in the exact same way.” I can’t blame the men and women from not wanting to divert their eyes from the sky, knowing that He will one day soon return in the clouds.

The truth is simple. Because of Jesus Christ, we have His resurrection hope pulsing in our veins. We know He is coming back! We could stand around staring at the skies and waiting for Christ’s imminent return. He didn’t say to His disciples, “Now stand here and wait for me. I’ll be back!” No, Jesus commanded His disciples to go and make disciples of all the nations – there is much work to be done before He returns.

We can now face our every fear with faith. In a world where the sky seems to be literally falling down around us, we have Christ’s Word to assure us of full salvation in Him. He will not forsake us. We will see Him coming again on the clouds one day soon, and that’s a bonafide lifetime guarantee! Until then, we need to stop gawking at the skies above and get busy spreading the news! Jesus Christ is alive! He heals the sick, frees us from sin, and brings everlasting hope to the hopeless. Spread the Good News today, in Jesus’ name!

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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 pedestrian bridge

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:9 (NIV)

After [Jesus] said this, He was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid Him from their sight.

Good morning!

I couldn’t help but notice a most captivating sunset Saturday evening as I walked across the pedestrian bridge that linked the parking garage to St. Louis University Hospital. The sunlight streaming through a few colorful clouds beamed across the sky and literally fell along the path where I was walking. I stopped to look up. The light was so bright that I could not keep my eyes on it for more than a second; yet, it was the most beautiful thing I think I’ve ever seen.

I wonder if this is similar to the disciples’ experience when Jesus was taken up into heaven. One minute, He is standing there, speaking to them, and the next, He is high and lifted up, moving across the sky. The disciples strained their eyes to see Him pass through the clouds but the light was so intensely bright they could not watch Him go. Eventually, a cloud hid Him from their physical sight.

Just because we cannot see Him in the flesh, does not mean that Jesus isn’t here with us right now.

When I make hospital visits, it is my practice to pray silently for the people in every room that I walk by. On one floor, babies are being born every minute and new life is birthed into every heart who peers into the nursery window for the very first time. On another floor, people are waiting for any word of hope for their loved ones who remain patients in intensive care units. Pastors and physicians gather with family members who are holding vigil as their friend is fighting for life. Here the battle is often won in a brand new life. We wait as they breathe their last earthly breath and take their first, fresh new breath of everlasting life in heaven.

I couldn’t help but wonder if that beautiful sunset wasn’t the grand welcome for a precious child of God, who was crossing over at that very moment from death into new life. They are here one minute and gone the next; we strain our eyes to see them go. Yet, this precious one lives on in our hearts and minds forever. As I moved across the pedestrian bridge, I was reminded that all of us will one day walk across the bridge that leads from this life into the next. Who will be there to greet you on that day? When I make my crosswalk journey, there is only one face I long to see, and His light will be the light that guides my every step home.

If you have lost a loved one in the past week, my prayer is that you will remember Christ’s everlasting promise; Jesus is with us always, even to the end of the age. He has gone to prepare a place for you and me; where we will be live in His light forever. This is not the end, but a brand new beginning. Learn to embrace the sunsets of life, for it is a gift of all that is to come.

Jesus is with us always: yesterday, today and forever. Choose to walk in the light of His love today.

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.

Living Witness

Today’s Reading: Acts 1:8 (NIV)

8 [Jesus said,] “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”

Good morning!

Lord, you really want me to be your living witness where?

This is a question that comes up daily in my personal devotion time with the Lord. Christ commands us to go make disciples of all the nations. That is one tall order for this short order cook! Being a person who finds herself directionally challenged, I struggle to unpack the specifics of this direct command.

I begin the process by trying to define where Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria are in my life. Jerusalem is the place where the disciples gathered, as they waited for the Holy Spirit power to come upon them. It was there they first saw the Lord, alive and well, after His crucifixion and burial. The disciples found the Upper Room in Jerusalem to be a holy place of refuge in a volatile social and political climate. This room had become their home away from home. My Jerusalem is definitely home; home with my family; home with my Faith family. It is the one place I can go and know that I will be loved unconditionally and without reservation. It is a safe oasis in a difficult social and economic climate. I can express my love for Christ freely, knowing that the people who surround me understand what I feel because they feel it too. I am called to be a living witness in my home, with my family, and at church, in the presence of my Faith family.

Judea takes the disciples out of their comfort zone and moves them out into the communities surrounding their home base. Moving into unknown territory can be frightening, especially when folks who do not share your enthusiasm or love for the Lord begin to judge you. How did the disciples convince people who did not yet know Jesus to believe in Him? They put themselves in harm’s way just to share Christ’s saving message outside the walls. The Holy Spirit equipped the disciples to go into Judea, standing on Christ’s Word alone. My Judea is the place where I work and study and live each day. It is the neighborhood where I reside. Jesus holds me personally responsible to share the Good News with the folks I meet, everywhere I go. This is where I need to improve my spiritual serve, knowing that I will surely face rejection, judgment and hostility from many. Am I willing to take Christ's message to the streets?

Samaritans were considered despicable by the Jews. They were the outcasts of all good society. Jesus had no problem hanging out with Samaritans. His love broke every social class, boundary, and cultural standard. Jesus was judged harshly for eating with tax collectors, healing lepers, and befriending Samaritans. Where is my Samaria? Is Christ calling me to go to the place I would rather not go to serve Him? Maybe I need to make a visit to the local bars in St. Charles. This is a very hard place for me to go, given my childhood upbringing. Nothing scares me more than an out-of-control drunk than a convicted felon. Maybe Christ wants me to take His Word into the prisons. Am I willing to walk through my Samaria and love as Christ loves me?

I realize that the Holy Spirit power is not manufactured in America. I cannot purchase it in any other country, for that matter. The Holy Spirit power is an amazing gift from the Father, given freely to all who believe and receive Jesus as Lord. When we believe with our hearts and confess with our lips that Jesus Christ is Lord of all, we ask by faith to receive the Holy Spirit power, and He pours it out over our lives. This power is the exact same power that the disciples carried with them throughout Jerusalem, Judea and Samaria. He equips us to leave the creature comforts of our homes, our churches, and go outside the walls in ministry and service for His kingdom.

Where is Jesus Christ calling you to be His living witness today?

Grace and peace,

Deb Spaulding

Faith UMC - St. Charles, MO

www.songofdeborah.com

___________________________

© Copyright 2009, 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.