Devotionals

DEVOTION: “Bless His Holy Name”



SCRIPTURE: “Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; for the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.” Exodus 20:7

“Bless the Lord, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.” Psalm 103:1.

“So will I make my holy name known in the midst of my people Israel; and I will not let them pollute my holy name any more: and the heathen shall know that I am the Lord, the Holy One in Israel.” Ezekiel 39:7

“But above all things, my brethren, swear not, neither by heaven, neither by earth, neither by any other oath; but let your yea be yea, and your nay, nay; lest ye fall into condemnation.” James 5:12.

MEDITATION: When we think about profaning God’s name, we probably think immediately of familiar “cuss words” we have heard all of our lives, and certainly no Christian should ever use them. God felt so strongly about it that it made his “top 10.”

However, in recent years, another irreverent use of God’s name has become epidemic, heard so frequently that even Christians say it without any thought as to what they are really saying.

It would be difficult to watch any sitcom on tv, athletic event, or disaster on the evening news without hearing someone exclaim, “Oh my God!” either in dismay, surprise, or elation. It is so common that the abbreviation “OMG” is generally understood. Its use is rampant in our society.

It is doubtful that even a handful of such utterances involve either invoking God’s help or giving him thanks or praise. Its use is the equivalent of “Wow!” “Rats!” “Fudge!” or some other commonplace expression which cheapens God’s name--his Holy name, a name above all others regarded with respect and reverence, a name set apart.

As Christians we need to reverence God’s name and the name of our savior, Jesus Christ. And we need to set the example for others. The English language is strong enough and versatile enough that we do not need to use them in vain. As Christ said, “yea” and “nay”will suffice. If you are tempted in daily life to exclaim, “OMG!” bite your tongue!

PRAYER: Our Father: When we regard the magic wonder of the universe and your steadfast love for us, we are struck with awe! You are a loving, just and holy God, worthy of our reverence and devotion. Help us to remember at all times to give your name the respect and adoration it deserves. In Jesus’ holy name, Amen.

Keith M. Heim

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Scripture:
God spoke: “Separate!
Water-beneath-Heaven, gather into one place;
Land, appear!”
And there it was.
God named the land Earth.
He named the pooled water Ocean.
God saw that it was good.

God looked over everything he had made;
it was so good, so very good!
It was evening, it was morning—
Day Six.
Genesis 1:9-10, 31 (The Message)

Reflection: A friend of mine was attending a meeting in Portland, Oregon, in July, and since I had never been there, I tagged along. It was probably one of the most beautiful trips I've ever taken—or maybe I just appreciate scenery more as I get older. From Portland, we took a day trip to the ocean and saw absolutely breathtaking views as we traveled along Highway 101. Another day, we traveled south and saw vineyards. And on the third day, we traveled east along the scenic highway and saw the Columbia River Gorge, forests, waterfalls, and mountains. We even took the ¼-mile walk up 88 stairs to a viewpoint where we could see five mountains, including Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens.

I don't know how anyone can see such magnificence in nature and not believe in God. And I found myself thinking several times about the pioneers who crossed those mountains and what faith it must have taken. They were traveling on horseback or with wagons across rugged countryside with no knowledge of what lay ahead of them. I imagine the relief they would have felt at successfully getting across one mountain pass, only to see another one just ahead. Or to see the quickly flowing waters of a river and know that they had to get across it to get to their final destination. Yet those early settlers had faith they would make it to their destination, and thanks to them, we can now enjoy the wonders of that part of the country by traveling down a highway at 65 miles per hour.

As my friend and I began the walk up the path and stairs to the viewpoint to see the mountains, I was tempted to give up and go back to the car. The steps were uneven and sometimes rather steep. There was no railing, and in fact, there was a dropoff on the side of the path that was rather intimidating. But several people we passed offered encouragement and insisted that the climb was worth it. And it was.

I'll probably remember that climb for a long time, along with the views of the ocean we saw from a state park in Cannon Beach, Oregon. I'll try to remind myself to give thanks to those who forged the way so that I could experience the splendor of God's handiwork. But most of all, I'll thank God for creating the earth and for giving me faith to trust in him as I reached the top of the mountain so that I was able to enjoy the majesty of this land.

Prayer: Dear Lord, Forgive us for so often taking for granted the grandeur of this world you created. You saw that it was good, and now we have a stunning world to experience. Thank you for crafting mountains, waterfalls, forests and oceans. Help us to enjoy these visions, while remembering that you are the source of it all.

Robin Hadfield

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TITLE: Life’s Storms

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 8: 23 – 26 And when he got into the boat, his disciples followed him. And behold, there arose a great storm on the sea, so that the boat was being swamped by the waves; but he was asleep. And they went and woke him, saying, “Save, Lord; we are perishing.” And he said to them, “Why are you afraid, O men of little faith?” Then he rose and rebuked the winds and the sea; and there was a great calm.

REFLECTION: After Jesus calmed the sea his disciples looked at each other and said, “What sort of man is this that even the winds and sea obey him?” Can’t you just imagine how they must have felt? They knew that their friend Jesus was extraordinary but this was something different.

Storms inevitably happen in everyone’s lives. But here we have the example of Jesus calming the storm and the fears of death that the disciples had. What a magnificent joy to know that Jesus is our personal savior and can calm the storms that come in our lives. We are never alone in our struggles. And it is at those stormy times we can call upon our faith and know with certainty that the peace of the Prince of Peace is ours for the asking. What a comfort.

We are awed, just like the disciples were, to see the power and the love that come from Jesus. He is a ready refuge during our life’s storms.

PRAYER: Our heavenly Father, we come to you with deep gratitude that you sent your son Jesus to help us through the storms in our lives. We are so thankful for gifts of comfort, peace and love that can live in all of us who draw on these strengths. They are the gifts of grace that can only come from our precious savior, Jesus the Christ. Amen

MARY LIENEMENN

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Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. Philippians 4:8

I’ve been writing a lot of letters lately—real, old-fashioned letters. My son is far away and not able to call or email—in today’s world, that is almost incommunicado. However, he can send, and receive, letters.

I miss him terribly, and I know that he’s a bit homesick. What do I write? How do I stay positive and upbeat and still let him know I love him and miss him? I’m uncertain how to do this, and yet, he says, “Keep the letters coming. You can’t write enough.” And I must admit that I’m not used to sitting down and putting pen to paper anymore. Letter-writing is becoming a lost art.

So, I’ve turned to the Epistles. Although they are more public than personal letters, they still provide Christians with excellent guidelines, not only for living but also for our communications. It’s interesting to contrast the formal, Hellenistic format used then to our more casual writings today.

Let’s start with the greeting. Don’t most of us skim over that part to get to the “meat?” In the Epistles, the writer identifies himself first, and then the recipients. “Paul an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, to the saints who are also faithful in Christ Jesus.” There’s a lot more to the greeting than meets the eye. The identity of the writer not just what he is called, it’s what he is, and what he does. “James, a servant of God and of the Lord, Jesus Christ.” Likewise, the identity of the recipients is more than a “Dear Family” – the writer defines what it is to be a believer in Christ. For example, in the Second Letter of Peter, “To those who have obtained a faith of equal standing with ours in the righteousness of our God and Savior Jesus Christ.”

Is he writing to us, centuries later? The answer is yes, and it’s quite humbling. It’s not just “Dear Name…,” the greeting contains an expectation. This is what God is calling us to be.

I haven’t changed the way I greet my son in my letters yet, but the epistolary form is creeping into the body of the letters. I include those verses of encouragement, and they are many, that appear in every Epistle. The verse from Philippians above—words of encouragement but also of our higher calling—was today’s offering. I also include messages from others, as the Epistles do, albeit in more modern language. “Aaron says hello,” or “Mr. Smith asked about you.” I also try to close with a blessing (and I confess I throw in Calvin and Hobbes or Pinky and the Brain to get him to smile).

Heavenly and Almighty Father, I’m so thankful for You and for Your Word. Help us to be mindful of your message and how we, in turn, can encourage others through you. Help us to remember that our identities are completely enmeshed in You and bless us and our hands to Your service. Amen.

Gail Blankenau

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God’s Answer/ God’s Time

Scripture: “This is what the Lord says: I will answer your prayers because I have set a time when I will help by coming to save you.”



Reflection: For about a year, I have been living with this passage in Isaiah. I read it weekly and many times, daily. It is addressed to Israel, but it is also part of one of the “Servant Songs” found in Isaiah that describe Christ’s coming, calling and mission in detail. The wonder of the Bible is that since it is “living and active” a passage can speak to us across time & audiences. In this case, I have been praying for God’s help and guidance on an area in my life for several years. He graciously led me to this verse. It has been a strength and faith builder for me. It was amazing to hear God say, “I will answer your prayers.”

Sometimes, don’t you just need to know that you are heard, that you are visible? When God hears me and speaks to me, I stop in my tracks. There is no dearer place of safety and peace than in God’s presence. In July, Pastor Jim preached a wonderful sermon about Hannah, who was barren and God heard her prayers and gave her a son in her old age, named Samuel. I understand Hannah’s perseverance and acknowledge God’s timing is all-wise. It is good to wait on the Lord, and it is incredible to have Him answer us.

Prayer: Dear Father, thank you for coming to our aid, for sending us help. Put it in our hearts to seek you when we face daily challenges. Also, help us to wait for your set time. May you be praised for your love and mercy. Amen.

Angie Berkebile

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Scriptures: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. Lamentations 3:22–23

Not that I have already obtained this or have already reached the goal; but I press on to make it my own, because Christ Jesus has made me his own. Beloved, I do not consider that I have made it my own; but this one thing I do: forgetting what lies behind and straining forward to what lies ahead, I press on toward the goal for the prize of the heavenly call of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12–14

Reflection: I've been studying Tai Chi for two years. Called an internal martial art, Tai Chi consists of a series of movements called a form that are performed slowly and smoothly. When I started in the beginner's class, our instructor, Chris, taught us postures and parts of moves until we'd trained our arms and legs and torsos to work together. Bit by bit, we learned the individual parts of the form, and then put them together into the beginning form itself. As we progressed, Chris taught us variations on moves and brand new moves that built into new forms. Every time she added a new move, it seemed like I had to relearn a basic, or that some move I had done well before now wouldn't go right. Each week, though, Chris encouraged us to approach our practice with a beginner's mind. Instead of focusing on past accomplishments or fussing over failures, we are to come to the form new, not expecting perfection, but hoping for progress. Now, after two years, I can play the three forms I've been taught with far better concentration and grace than I could when I began. I will never reach perfection, whatever that is, but I can persevere, learning new forms one move at a time.

Paul understood this kind of movement toward a goal. God called Paul to holiness, sanctification. But even as faithful and obedient as he was, Paul knew he had not reached the goal. Al l Christians are called to pursue sanctification, but it's important that we understand it as a long process, not as something we can achieve in this life and then relax. Eugene Peterson expressed it as “a long obedience in the same direction.” I like that. Through God's grace, we have a new chance every day to become more holy. We should not focus on our past failings, because they've been forgiven, and they will only distract us from our goal. We cannot rely on our past accomplishments, because then we become complacent and delude ourselves that we have achieved our goal. We must, like Paul, press on

Prayer: Most faithful God, I am grateful that your mercies are new every morning. Thank you for making me your own, and for putting the desire in my heart to seek you and seek holiness. Help me as I learn obedience and perseverance. Amen.

Sandy McBride

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The God Who Provides

1John 5:14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.

If you live long enough, at some point, you will know what it is to be in a place where you are completely at the mercy of God the Father. Abraham was there when he took his son Isaac up Mount Moriah for the ultimate sacrifice. This story was always one of my least favorites as a child. I did not understand how God could ask Abraham to kill his own son. Honestly I was a little afraid of a God that would ask this of anyone. Now that I am a mother, and I fully understand the whole “mama bear” protect the cubs at all cost thing, what Abraham set out to do, does not seem normal. Abraham was not normal. He was on a level that is hard for some to get their head around. He trusted his God in such a way that he put God’s will above his own. I believe God saw Abraham’s sacrificial love and complete trust happening at one of the most vulnerable points of his life, and God became Jehovah Jireh to Abraham. “ The God who provides.” Then years and years later God Himself placed His own Son as the final sacrifice. He became God the Provider on a whole new level.

How can we not trust that He will provide what we need and the blessings we deserve at the right time. He provided a ram. He provided a Savior. He provided the Holy Spirit. He provided the Bible. He provided you with a will to get to know him. Maybe start by asking for a stronger relationship with Him. If you ask according to his will, he hears you.

Prayer: Jehovah Jireh, You alone know what we need. You know the path we are to take to get there. Help us to know your will for our lives. Help us to reflect a love for others that is sacrificial in nature and full of grace. You are so amazing in the blessings you provide. Help us to trust You like Abraham and to Love like Christ loved. Amen

Kathy Rangel

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Title: Four Important Questions in Our Spiritual Life

Scripture: Matthew 16: 13-15: When Jesus came to the neighborhood of Caesarea, He asked His Disciples, Who do people say the Son of Man is? Some say John the Baptizer, they answered. Others Elijah, still others Jeremiah. But who do YOU say I am? He asked them. Yes, who do WED say Jesus is? Who am I? Until we find out who Jesus is, can we answer his question?

Reflection: Who am I? Who are you? You and I are made by God, in the image of God. God has put His stamp of approval on you and me as Christians. “Made by God, in the image of God. Made in heaven.” That’s who we are. Redeemed by God.
Redeem the time, God only know.
How soon our little life may close.
As every passing moment flows,
Redeem the time. ----Anon

Alice in Wonderland. A Fairytale. I am sure we have read the story of “Alice in Wonderland.” If you will recall, Alice asked 4 very important questions in her travel through Wonderland. We could ask the same questions and take a look at these from the Spiritual side. The first question she asked we have already answered, “Who am I?”

The second question Alice asked was, “What’s it for?” She came upon a white Knight riding a big white horse. He was carrying many things that made him lean from side to side. On one side was a big basket full of clothes and a lunch. On the other side he had a bag with honey and syrup. His horse had spikes on his feet. Alice asked him why do you carry all those things? He answered, “Oh I don’t really know, and I don’t really know what they all are for.”

Jesus sent His Disciples out, two by two. He told them not to take anything with them except a walking stick, no bag, no money. Wear sandals and don’t carry an extra shirt. How much excess baggage is there in our heart, like sin, hatred, guilt, etc? What is it all for?
When other s view our lives today,
Our honesty is on display.
Lord, help us point the way to You
By doing what is kind and true.

The 3rd question Alice asked, “where do you and I want to go?” She came upon a Fairy and asked where are you going? Yes, where do we want to go? Jesus tells us to follow Him. You and I are living to enter God’s heaven. He would have all of us to be saved. We all follow Jesus as He leads, Jesus lead thou on till our rest is won. Quite some time ago I attended a noon business luncheon where Senator Ernie Chambers was the guest speaker. In his speech he made note to the Bible passage that states, “narrow is the road that leads to Heaven, and few there be that go.” He also said that God sacrificed His Son to save a few. He added that the devil didn’t sacrifice a son but many are following him.

We are following Jesus who is leading us to Heaven. “If the way be cheerless we will follow calm and fearless. Guide us by the hand to our fatherland.”

The 4th question Alice asked, “Will you, won’t you?” Plan as though we will be living for a century, live as though we will be leaving today. Alice came upon a turtle. The turtle wanted to dance, will you, won’t you. She had a decision to make. We all have many decisions to make. You and I must decide today. Jesus says, “now is the time of salvation. To-day you shalt thou be with me in paradise.” Yes, Lord speak to us that we may speak. Oh, lead us Lord that we may lead. For mine eyes have seen the glory of the coming of the Lord. Amen.

Prayer: Sing to the Lord a joyful song. Lift up your hearts. Sing alleluia. Shout His praises, people everywhere. Praise Him for life, for rest, and food. Praise him for eyes and ears to sense His world. Praise Him for love and all that’s true. For all these things we praise Him and give Him thanks. Amen.

Bob Schiebinger

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Trust in the Lord



Psalm 13



How long, O Lord? Will you forget me forever?

How long will you hide your face from me?



How long must I wrestle with my thoughts

And every day have sorrow in my heart?

How long will my enemy triumph over me?



Look on me and answer, O Lord my God.

Give light to my eyes, or I will sleep in death.

My enemy will say, “I have overcome him.”

And my foes will rejoice when I fall.



But I trust in your unfailing love.

My heart rejoices in your salvation.

I will sing to the Lord

For he has been good to me.





Some days it seems like everything just keeps going wrong. That must be how David felt when he wrote this Psalm. It sounds like he had been praying for relief from his sorrow and despair a long time, and yet it did not end.



Sometimes it may seem like God does not answer our prayers. Like David, even in those times, we must remember that God is watching out for us, and he has been good to us. We must remember to trust in his unfailing love, and to rejoice in his salvation.



I saw one of those billboards from God recently. They are black with white writing with a message from God. It said, “Life is short. Eternity is not”, and was signed God. Even though life may seem to get us down, we need to remember that it is just a short time, and we can be with God forever if we trust in him.



Dear Lord, thank you for your love and salvation. Help us remember that you are always with us. Amen.

Laurie Schlitt

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Scripture: Psalm 146 9-17 (The Message)
God is good to one and all;
Everything he does is suffused with grace.
Creation and creatures applaud you, God;
Your holy people bless you.

God always does what he says,
And is gracious in everything he does.
God gives a hand to those down on their luck,
Gives a fresh start to those ready to quit.
Generous to a fault,
You lavish your favor on all creatures.
Everything God does is right –
The trademark on all his works is love.

Reflection: Last weekend our family went to the Henry Doorly Zoo and enjoyed the cool jungle and desert buildings on a hot day outside. We weren’t in any hurry and several times we’d patiently wait at the railing for several minutes searching carefully high and low and through in the foliage and rocks to find the animal the signs told us was in that spot, only to finally find the animal quietly sitting right there in plain view. One such animal was a sloth. If you know about sloths, you know that they don’t move quickly and they don’t draw attention to themselves, but they’re really an interesting and unique animal. And we nearly missed it by looking into the depths of the jungle when it was really so close we could have touched it.

The blessings of our lives are often like this, aren’t they? We get so focused on what we pray will happen in the future, the resolution of dilemmas, the job, the retirement, the healing we pray God will bring, that we miss the blessings that are so close that we can touch them. What moments of peace, acts of kindness, beauty of nature, unexpected success, love of family and friends are you taking for granted today? A feeling of gratitude surrounds me when I notice them, a feeling of thankfulness.

Prayer: Dear Lord and giver of all good gifts, you surround us with blessings but in the push to continuously search for what we want in life, we miss those blessings that are so close we can touch them. We are discontent in the midst of miracles. Lord, please forgive us for overlooking your greatness all around us. Today, I will look for these and give thanks. Amen

Lori

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TITLE: Hope and the Power of Prayer

SCRIPTURE: Romans 5:3-4 “We also have joy with our troubles, because we know that these troubles produce patience. And patience produces character, and character produces hope. And this hope will never disappoint us, because God has poured out his love to fill our hearts.”

Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see.”

REFLECTION: My bible study group and my close friends have been praying for our great-niece for over a year. She was diagnosed with a severe heart defect before she was born. At 6 days old she had her first heart surgery followed by two more this past year. She has spent all but a few weeks of her first year in the hospital. In May she was put at the top of the heart transplant list. In June she again went into intensive care for a month. The doctors did not think she would come out of intensive care until after transplant. But she rebounded and was moved to a regular room the day before her first birthday. She received her new heart exactly a year since her first surgery. The plan is for them to go home this weekend. This little one is a fighter and her parents are such examples of courage, faith and hope. We have seen one of God’s miracles and witnessed the power of prayer.

PRAYER: Dear Loving Father: We give you praise for such a miracle. “Thank you” doesn’t seem to be enough, but it’s all that I have. You have carried this sweet child through the valley and shadow of death and we pray for her continued healing, a return to a “normal” childhood. We also pray for the donor family that you will comfort them in their grief. Thank you that through our faith in you, we have this wonderful thing called hope. Amen.

Cathy Schapmann

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TITLE: I Sing the Mighty Power of God

SCRIPTURE: Then the Lord God formed man of dust from the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living being. Genesis 2: 7 (RSV)

REFLECTION: One Sunday last year our worship service at Eastridge featured the hymns of Isaac Watts (1674 – 174. Watts was a prolific writer of hymns, providing the lyrics to eighteen entries in our hymnal—everything from When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, to Joy to the World, the Lord is Come. We were singing one of his best-loved, I Sing the Mighty Power of God. My voice was warmed up by the third verse, and I belted out,

“There’s not a plant or flower below but makes thy glories known, and clouds arise and tempests blow, by order from thy throne; while all that borrows life from thee…”

Suddenly I stopped short. “…all that borrows life from thee…” That is the way it is, isn’t it? We don’t own our own life, it really belongs to God, and we don’t get to keep it. While some have life for decades and decades, and others for only a few years or even less, someday every one of us will give it back to God. What kind of a borrower have we been? Have we taken good care of what we have been entrusted with? When we give our life back will it be a little “distressed” with scratches and a distinctive patina, or will it still be in its original plastic bubble wrap? Will we return it with the gas tank empty? Will its value have appreciated or depreciated while it was in our possession?

Fortunately, it took only an instant for all these troubling questions to stream through my head, for the next line we sang provided powerful reassurance: “while all that borrows life from thee is ever in thy care; and everywhere that we can be, thou, God, are present there.”

PRAYER: O God of Heaven and Earth, we thank you that you have not abandoned us; You provide us guidance on how to get the most out of the lives you have given us. We pray that we will use them singing your praises and doing your work. Amen.

NAME: Bill Wehrbein

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FIRST THINGS FIRST

Matthew 6:33&34

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

REFLECTION:

This morning, as I tried to organize a “to-do list”, I began to fret. For the last few weeks, we have planned a trip to Arkansas , but the last few days, as usual, find me with more things to do than is possible..

As the list grew, I remembered I needed to write this devotion for Aug. 8 before we go. I went back and inserted “Write Devotion” at the top of the list. This led me to a topic. The concordance listed 21 readings with the word “first”.

There were many good reminders there. The first commandment is to love God. He is the first and the last. I am to give him the first of all I have.

I believe the whole process was God’s way of centering me on what was important and of reminding me he does not want me to worry. When I first seek knowledge of his will for my life, he will lead me through the rest. He will help me sort the chaff from the wheat.

So, I am not sure how many things from my list will be done and how many will get scratched. I don’t know how many things will be added to it before Monday or Tuesday. But, I do know God will give me the direction and strength to accomplish all that is necessary, and add blessings of joy to the busy days, because he always does---when I humbly ask.

Heavenly Father, Thank you for supplying all my needs. Thank you for sending your Son to speak to me and to die for me. Thank you for sending your Holy Spirit to dwell within me and give me direction and strength and happiness. Please use me today, in some small way, to shine for you. In Jesus’ name, Amen

Carolyn Fetterley

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A Mighty Fortress Is Our God (1529)

A mighty fortress is our God,
A bulwark never failing;
Our helper He, amid the flood
Of mortal ills prevailing.
For still our ancient foe;
Doth seek to work us woe;
His craft and pow’r are great,
And, armed with cruel hate,
On earth is not his equal.

Psalm 46: 1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.

Martin Luther was a great reformer, Bible translator, political leader, fiery preacher, and theologian. But he was also a musician. He grew up in a very musical part of Germany, listening to his mother sing. He joined a boys’ choir that sang at weddings and funerals. He become proficient with the flute (recorder), and his volcanic emotions often erupted in song.

When the Protestant Reformation began, Luther was determined to restore worship to the German church. He worked with skilled musicians to create new music for Christians, to be sung in the vernacular. He helped revive congregational singing and wrote a number of hymns. Luther once wrote: “Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world. It controls our thoughts, minds, hearts, and spirits.” He also said, “The one who sings, prays double.” Luther’s confidence in the power of faith that comes from the scriptures was followed closely by his belief that the singing of hymns was most significant in motivating the Believer. Luther’s most famous hymn is “A Mighty Fortress Is Our God”. It quickly became the Battle Hymn of the Reformation. Turning away from a music form dominated by the clergy of the Catholic Church, Luther placed the emphasis upon congregational singing. Hymn books and the scriptures were soon published from the newly introduced printing presses of Johann Gutenberg in German rather than the liturgical language of Latin. Based on Psalm 46, “A Mighty Fortress” reflects Luther’s awareness of our intense struggle with Satan. In difficulty and danger, Luther would often resort to this song, saying to his associate, “Come, Philipp, let us sing the 46th Psalm.” It is said that this hymn was sung by many an oppressed Christian as they were forced into exile or brought to their martyrdom.

As I researched this hymn, I found an internet site that shows the multiple Biblical references and Luther’s vast knowledge of the scriptures used in writing the stanzas of this hymn. If you are interested, look up www.whatsaiththescripture.com/Poetry/A-Mighty-Fortress.html. It shows the wonderful blending of scriptures and verse that reflect our faith and beliefs.

Heavenly Father, thank you for your blessings of hymns and congregational singing. Thank you for leaders like Luther, who brought your word and your music to your people in the pews. Thank you for hymnbooks and singing which help us understand our faith, and renews our spirits. Amen.

Nancy Hall

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Scripture: Yet, O LORD, you are our Father.
We are the clay, you are the potter;
We are all the work of your hand.
Isaiah 64:8

Reflection:
Last week I had the chance to enjoy a vacation in the Colorado mountains with my family. We stayed in Salida and ventured out on back roads most days. Our last day there, we chose to remain in town and explore the local shops. One store that caught my attention was the “Gallery of the Maverick Potter,” a tiny quaint gallery where handmade pottery is sold. I was awed by the creative pieces and the unique qualities every mug, bowl, and jar had. Although many had the same style, no two pieces were the same. Each one was made with great care and had a beauty all its own. I struggled to decide exactly which piece I wanted to take home. As I was making one last look-over in the store, I noticed a pile of a few pieces on the floor that had been discounted. I reached down and found a beautiful blue and green bowl. The owner, noticing how the bowl had attracted my attention, told me it was discounted because it had a small flaw; something had happened in the kiln to create a small spot on the inside of the bowl. And, since it was not completely flawless, he chose not to sell it at full price. Well, I fell in love with the bowl. I felt that the “flaw” gave it character and made it that much more appealing. I eagerly paid for my treasure and left smiling and happy with my masterpiece.

We have probably all heard the expression of God as a potter, shaping, molding, and creating us into wonderful works. We are all as uniquely beautiful as the many pieces of pottery in that gallery I visited. We were all made with great care and workmanship. Though the world may see us as having imperfections and flaws, like my bowl, God does not. He eagerly seeks us and sent his son to pay for us, so that our mistakes and flaws do not define us. Though we are imperfect, having been marred by the world as the bowl was marred by the kiln, we are God’s precious treasures, his masterpieces, worth more than we could possibly imagine. He adores us and smiles down on us, happy with the work he has created.

Now, if only we could believe and accept that we are amazing, unique, beautiful, one of a kind works of God’s own hands!

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I know that I am the clay and you are the master potter. You have shaped and molded me into an amazing being, one that is far more valuable than I can even comprehend. I know you made me with great care and that you love me and seek me. Help me to remember just how much I am worth. Help me to remember my beauty and how precious I am in your sight. Help me to always know that I am your treasure, the priceless work of you hand. Amen.

Kara Maize

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TITLE: Finding Time to Live a Quiet Life

SCRIPTURE
1 Timothy 2: 1-4 (NIV)
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.

REFLECTION: This last week my niece and her two young boys, ages four and five, came from Washington, D.C., and stayed one night with me before heading to Iowa to my sister’s. One night, mind you, and the next morning. Let me tell you, taking care of two dogs and two cats is nothing compared to the constant, never-ceasing activity that those two boys engage in. It got me to wonder, how in the world do parents with small children find time for themselves? When and how do you secure a “peaceful and quiet” time for yourselves?

God calls us daily to secure a place and time to reflect on His many wonders and to read His Holy Word. Finding that place, that space, in our lives certainly is challenging but well worth the effort, for it’s through these peaceful and quiet times that His presence is most fully felt, encompassing us in the love that is Jesus the Christ.

PRAYER: Heavenly Father, you give us so many things, yet it’s often challenging to quiet our lives enough to hear you. Help us to be still and to listen more than we do. In Christ’s name, amen.

Greg Tubach

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Topic: U-Turn to God

Scripture: Acts 3:19 Now it's time to change your ways! Turn to face God so he can wipe away your sins, pour out showers of blessing to refresh you, and send you the Messiah he prepared for you, namely, Jesus. (The Message)

Reflection: There are a number of U-Turns in Lincoln. It seems to me that most have popped up in the past few years. Although I feel a bit like Iʼm doing something wrong, I enjoy making a U-Turn every now and then to go back the direction I was coming from. Once in awhile the U-Turn is planned, but most of the time I realized that I was going the wrong way or had gone too far. So I need to turn around and head back.

God encourages us to do U-Turns in our daily life. And he understands that we need to do them often. Itʼs far too easy to start going down the wrong path. But as Peter reminds us, all we need to do is a U-Turn to face God. Forgiveness is there for the asking. And though we should try hard to stay on the right path so that we donʼt have to take the guilt-producing U-Turn, itʼs such a relief to know that he is right there, ready to forgive us when we finally realize weʼre going the wrong direction and need to turn around, ask for forgiveness and be drawn closer to him.

Prayer: Lord, even though the traffic signals for our lives are spelled out in the bible and are crystal-clear, we fail every day to follow Your rules. Please forgive us. Thank you for allowing U-Turns so that we can change our ways and draw closer to you. Thank you for sending Jesus so that U-Turns can be done without difficulty. Amen.

Cindy Thomson

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TITLE: A Pure Heart

SCRIPTURES: Psalm 51:10,12 Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me… Restore to me the joy of your salvation and grant me a willing spirit to sustain me.

Matthew 5:8 Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

Galatians 5:16-17, 24-25 So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you want…Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.

Ephesians 4:22-24 You were taught, with regard to your former way of life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness.


REFLECTION: Knowing the temptations my teenager will face when she starts High School, I want her to learn the importance of a pure heart. To be a good example for her, I need to do better keeping my own heart pure. It’s really hard to do when temptations constantly knock at my door. The temptations seem innocent at first, but sometimes they lead me, bit by enticing bit, towards sin. (Interestingly, sin’s pleasure never lasts long and only leaves me feeling empty.) There are some sins I’ve been able to conquer with God’s help, but there are other sins that, despite my best intentions, I keep repeating. It gets so frustrating and I sometimes wonder what I need to do differently.

Though David sinned many times, his faith remained strong. God called him “ a man after my own heart” (Acts 13:22). He was quick to confess his sins, his repentance was genuine (he did not repeat his sins), and he was ready to suffer the consequences. He completely trusted and obeyed God (“except in the case of Uriah the Hittite”, 1 Kings 15:5). To have a pure heart, I must be as faithful as David. When I strive to always think, say and do things that are pleasing to God, I “put on the new self, created to be like God in true righteousness and holiness”. This isn’t easy—I’ll definitely need to pray for God’s help. Whole-hearted surrender to the Spirit is essential—always listening, following and trusting. He can help me see what temptations I’m most vulnerable to, give me the strength to avoid them, and show me how to do what’s right.

It’s important to understand the benefits of a pure heart. Sadly, sin can separate us from God. But if we repent, we’ll experience the joy of God’s salvation. By staying pure and faithful, we can enjoy a wonderfully close fellowship with Him and the kind of rewards that last forever. This fellowship with the Spirit can bring out His fruits in us: “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control”(Galatians 5:22). Also, we have the opportunity, through our pure, God-powered hearts, to “shine like stars in the universe” for “a crooked and depraved generation”(Philippians 2:15). Our transformed lives can be an effective witness to the power of God’s Word. It’s cool to see how the benefits of having a pure heart reach far beyond ourselves.

PRAYER: Holy Savior, forgive me for letting temptations draw me into sin again and again. “Create in me a pure heart…and renew a steadfast spirit within me.” And thank you for making the victory over sin possible and for loving me even when I mess up. Amen.

Sharon Irvin

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Scripture: Ecclesiastes 3:1 For everything there is a season, a time for every purpose under heaven


Back when I was on the radio for a living, I did a daily 90 second to two minute essay that covered about every topic imaginable. I remember that sometime during the month of August, I always did a report about the fact that August really didn’t amount to much for anyone. It was generally hot, dry and windy. There were no holidays to celebrate during August and young people were anticipating (although probably not eagerly) the beginning of a new school year. But now the years have gone by and here is another August in the latter part of my life. Now August is beautiful – another month that I am alive and enjoying every sunrise and sunset. The problem now is that they come far too quickly and it would be nice to be able to slow down the ticking of the watch on my wrist. But it’s nice to be able to look down and see the seconds ticking. As with most people, I am hopeful for several more Augusts and never more will I badmouth a month, a week, a day and even an hour.

Lord, I give you thanks for this day, for this month and the life that I have had so far. There are many problems in the world but there always have been and probably always will. I am very thankful to be here and hope for better things for all mankind. Amen.

Bill Wood

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The 100-year Old Rose Bush

II Kings 19:30 - Once more a remnant of the house of Judah will take root below and will bear fruit above. (NIV)

Driving with friends down some old back roads, I felt a kinship with the host of one of my favorite series on the History Channel: “In Search of…”. I, too, was on a quest. I hoped to reconnect with the state in which I had been born. .

On our journey, we visited many heritage museums and often the curators would tell us about other interesting places to see. Such was the case with the clock museum. Unfortunately, we found its doors were locked. Looking at the gardens, I met a gardener who assured me the clock museum would soon be open.

As we visited, the gardener related that the rose bush, whose roots she was attacking with a vengeance, had been planted by a pioneer woman over 100 years ago. She said it was “taking over her garden”. I asked her where the roots would be planted. She said they would be discarded. “There is no one left to care about this old rosebush.” said the gardener. The family’s youngest daughter, a nun, is now 90 years old and she has been living in another state for many years.

My quest was at an end. I had found a connection to my home state. A pioneer woman has given me a talisman of love and faith. Some of the roots of her old rosebush have been planted in my backyard. Little green leaves are already growing on two of the branches, and like the “remnant of the house of Judah” it will “take root below and bear fruit above.” When the first rose blooms, I will be reminded that “The Rose on the Cross” is another name for our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

PRAYER: Thank You, Father, for the tie that binds all generations together in Christian love. Please help us in our lives as in our gardens to nurture flowers of faith. In Jesus’ holy name we pray. Amen.

SUBMITTED BY: Judy Welch
jwelch001@neb.rr.com

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TITLE: RUDE AWAKENING

SCRIPTURE: Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance. (James 1: 2-3 NIV)

REFLECTION: Last year, around this time, I moved into a duplex across the street. I was dragging my feet when it came to unpacking my many boxes. Then several months after moving in, my landlord told me I needed to get rid of the boxes or I would be asked to leave. I was crushed. So I refocused and when I wasn't at work, I was spending all my time unpacking boxes. After I started to see my progress, I knew I had needed that wake up call to get myself motivated in the right direction.

My department manager gave me a daily encouraging word from her calendar on December 1, which read as follows: Every event as yet has worked out the most divinely blessed results; and so believing that God rules all, that He governs wisely, that He brings good out of evil, the believer's heart is assured, and he is enabled calmly to meet each trial as it comes.

I always seem to be able to look back on all my trials and say God has helped me persevere and was with me every step of the way.

PRAYER: Dear Heavenly Father, thank you for the joy you bring into my life as I persevere through each day. No task is too great or too small to be accomplished when you are with me every step of the way. Thank you for those friends who are always ready with encouraging words and the offer of help. In your name I pray. Amen.

SUBMITTED BY: Dee Ann Dilley

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IMITATE CHRIST

SCRIPTURE: Since God chose you to be the holy people whom he loves, you must clothe yourselves with lenderhearted mercy, kindness, humility, gentlemess, and patience. Colossians 3:12

REFLECTION: In this scripture, Paul gave us a plan to help us live for God day by day and to living new life and to imitate Christ's mercy, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience. With this plan we are to imitate Christ and touch others lives. We can do this in ways that take only a moment. Some of the ways that I thought of are: smile at others, offer a hand shake, say a welcoming word, say an encouaging word, say thank you,and give a compliment. Try some of these and make a goal to think of some others to add to this list.

PRAYER: Lord, Help me to imitate Christ in ways that take only a moment. In Christ's Love, Amen

Susan Taylor

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THE GREAT COMMISSION

SCRIPTURE:
Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshipped him; but some doubted. Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” Matthew 28:16-20

REFLECTION:
On a Sunday afternoon not long ago, I found myself home alone and channel-surfing in front of the television set instead of using my time more productively. I came across and watched “Godspell”, the 1973 Columbia film version of a musical play based on the Gospel of Matthew. Jesus, depicted as a “hippie” or “flower child”, roams New York City with about 10 other “flower children” using music and songs, props and comedy, mime and dance to reenact the teachings of Christ through some of the parables found in the Gospel of Matthew. I have since learned that the play was conceived by John-Michael Tebelak in December 1970 when he was a 22-year-old student in the theatre department at Carnegie-Mellon University. By one account, he had read the gospels and was excited about their message. But when he attended an Easter service at a mainstream church he was disappointed in the lack of joy demonstrated by the worshippers and felt unwelcome because of his unorthodox appearance. (Remember the “generation gap”?) He set about finding a more upbeat way of presenting Matthew’s message, and his work became an off-Broadway play and then a hit movie.

I was very impressed by this creative and joyful way in which a young man endeavored to further the message of Christ’s love to people who might not receive it in more traditional ways or more traditional places.

PRAYER
Your wisdom and power are amazing, God. Thank You for Your gifts of intellect and creativity and for the many different ways You put the message of Your love before us when and where we least expect it. Help us to fulfill with our own gifts your “Great Commission”.

“Day by day, Oh Dear Lord, three things I pray: to see Thee more clearly, love Thee more dearly, follow Thee more nearly, day by day.” (From the song ”Day by Day” from the Godspell movie)

Judith Keller

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SCRIPTURE: The words of Amos, who was among the sheepherders from Tekoa, which he envisioned in visions concerning Israel in the days of Uzziah king of Judah, and in the days of Jeroboam son of Joash, king of Israel, two years before the earhtquake. He said, “The LORD roars from Zion And from Jerusalem He utters His voice; And the shepherds' pasture grounds mourn, And the summit of Carmel dries up.” Amos 1:1-2

REFLECTION: I am just starting a new Precept Bible Study class and it is on Amos this time. I have read through Amos several times but I have never taken the time to really study it and it has so much information in it. Amos could be speaking to us even today.

Obviously times were good when Amos delivered his message from the Lord. Both the Northern and Southern Kingdoms were prospering. Their armies were strong, so there was no threat from the enemy. So why Amos's message? Why is God so upset with His people?

Amos is a sheepherder. And the way sheepherder is used here Amos is not a sheepherder in the field but a business man in the sheepherding work. Tekoa is where Amos is from and it is in Judah. Amos starts his message to each area with Thus says the LORD. He starts with Damascus, followed by Gaza,Tyre, Edom, Ammon, Moab, Judah, and then Israel. Amos list what each is doing wrong and what the punishment will be for them. Many of the sins could be on the list for us in the areas we live and in our times today. The sins will not escape punishment and the message is that we need to prepare to meet our God.

The message is to Israel but he speaks to the nations first to show that he is not a God of one nation but of many. There is power in His voice and He is the Lord God.
Winston Churchill wrote something that goes with this passage: “I was not the loin, but it fell to me to give the lion's roar.” We are not God, but it has fallen to us by virtue of our calling and intimate relationships with God as His child, as a member of the body of Christ, to give the Lion's roar. And because the Word of God is complete, everything you and I need to know in respect to the future is to be found in the Word of God. We can spend the rest of our lifetime pouring over God's Word as we continue to learn. What a new and exciting study Amos is turning out to be and I would encourage you to spend some time in the word of Amos.

PRAYER: Lord we thank you for the truth in your word. Be with us as we study it, spend time in it, and learn from it. Open our eyes to see and our ears to hear your message as it applies to us today. Amen

Marilyn Albin

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TITLE: The Lesson of the Lilies

SCRIPTURE: Luke 12: 27-28 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. 28 If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?

REFLECTION: Nebraska’s summer heat and wind can wither the sturdiest flowers and discourage the most optimistic gardeners. Yet even in August when most plants have turned brown, we can still find an array of blossoms—beyond the carefully tended pots on porches—growing in fields and ditches along dusty roads. A crazy quilt of colors: purple coneflowers, black-eyed susans, yellow sunflowers, and orange lilies are scattered among squares of waving grasses. These wildflowers are not tended by a human gardener and don’t fit into a landscaping plan. The lilies “toil not, they spin not;” they simply exist. And for a brief time, they are glorious.

But the writer of Luke reminds us to “Consider the lilies how they grow,” to think about the lesson of the lilies. The variety and beauty of the lilies exceeded the royal robes of “Solomon in all his glory.” The writer asks: If God so beautifully clothes the flowers and grass, which will be cut and burned tomorrow, won’t the Creator lovingly clothe each human being in even more beauty?

Perhaps the lesson of the lilies is that each person is a beautiful, growing part of God’s creation and that God cares for each one of us.

PRAYER: Creator God, help us to grow in our faith, to see the beauty in each individual, and to respect the glory of your creation. We humbly ask you to enfold us in your love; and teach us that you will be with us today, tomorrow, and always. Amen.

Claudia Reinhardt

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Be Ye Doers of the Word

Scripture; The Third Commandment. Thou shalt sanctify the Holy Day.

Reflection: On the Saboth, a day to come together and Worship God. A saying goes something like this, “As the Saboth goes, so goest the Nation the rest of the week.

President Garfield had just taken office as President of the United States. A cabinet member came into his office to remind him of a meeting tomorrow at 10:30 in the morning. He replied, “I cannot come, I will be in church.”

The Lord’s Day, the day that gives us strength to live the other days of the week. The Lord’s day, the day Jesus rose from the dead. Di you realize that in some parts of the world they have an 8 day week? They count from Sunday, 8 days. We count from Monday to Sunday, 7 days.

Jesus has given us Sunday as the day of rest. Yes, rest. Even dirt needs a rest. The farmer will set aside a field for a certain amount of time to give the ground a rest. A friend of ours owns a Bowling alley. He was explaining to us that every 6 months he will change the pins, use new ones. Why? By doing this it helps the pins keep their elasticity and this then helps them to bounce properly.

Jesus would go off by Himself to a quiet place to rest. I would like to tell you a story. A story that is different in many ways. It tells us how to be “doers of the Word.” The Title is , “The Cracked Water Pot.” A water bearer in India had two large pots, each hung on each end of a pole which he carried across his neck. One of the pots had a crack in it, and while the other pot was perfect and always delivered a full portion of water at the end of the long walk from the stream to the master’s house. The cracked pot arrived only half full.

For a full two years this went on daily. Of course the perfect pot was proud of its accomplishments. But the poor cracked pot was ashamed of its own imperfection, and miserable that it was able to accomplish only half of what it had been made to do. “I am ashamed of my self, and I want to apologize to you.” “Why?” asked the bearer. “What are you ashamed of?” “I have been able, for these past two years, to delivery only half my load because this crack in my side causes water to leak out all the way back to your master’s house.” The water bearer felt sorry for the pot, and in his compassion he said,”as we return to the house, I want you to notice the beautiful flowers along the path.” Indeed, as they went up the hill, the pot took notice of the sun warming the beautiful wild flowers on the side of the path, and this cheered it.

The bearer said to the pot, “Did you notice that there were flowers ONLY on your side of the path, but not on the other pot’s side? That’s because I have always known about your flaw, and I took advantage of it. I planted flower seeds on your side of the path, and every day while we walk back from the stream, you’ve watered them. I have been able to pick these beautiful flowers to decorate my master’s table. Without you being just the way you are, he would not have this beauty to grace his house.

So what does Jesus mean when He tells us to be “doers of the word?” Not in big ways, but in little ways. You and I help each other as members of our church. We could go on and on, but this is what Jesus had in mind. Be ye doers of the word. Things that are done in a humble and small way.

A man passing by a small lake heard frantic calls for help. Diving into the water he saved a youngster from drowning. The boy was very grateful and stammered out his thanks. The rescuer patted him on the head and said, “That’s all right, just make sure that you are worth it.” In later years the boy often pondered those well-chosen words. To be worthwhile one must be filled with service, purpose, and praise to God.

Jesus pats us on the head and tells us, “I have saved you, I have called you by your name, you are mine.”

Prayer: Only one life, ‘twill soon be past, only what’s done for Christ will last. Dear Lord, please help me to let my light shine by Your Grace. Jesus said it, we believe it, that settles it. Thank you Lord. Amen

Bob Schiebinge

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TITLE: Teamwork

SCRIPTURE: 1 Corinthians 12: 14-21 “For the body does not consist of one member but of many. If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. And if the ear should say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the body,” that would not make it any less a part of the body. If the whole body were an eye where would be the hearing? If the whole body were an ear, where would be the sense of smell? But as it is, God arranged the organs in the body, each one of them as he chose. If all were a single organ, where would be body be? As it is, there are many parts yet one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I have no need of you” nor again the head to the feet “ I have no need of you.”

REFLECTION: This passage always makes me think of teamwork. We are all on many teams, at home, at school, at work at Church. Spend a minute and think about all the teams to which you belong. Teams work together to accomplish a goal. Each member has his or her part to play. Just like Paul’s metaphor of the body, team members serve different functions and all team members have something to contribute to the success of the group. There are times when teams do not function effectively. Some members may not take their task seriously, or may not feel their responsibilities are as important or glamorous as others. Some members may have a personal “agenda”. By using our Christian values, with God’s help, we may be able to influence some of the dysfunction we experience in teamwork.

PRAYER: Dear Lord, remind us to lean on you for strength and guidance as we function in all the teams in our lives. You are our true team leader. In Jesus Name. Amen

Kathy Kuehn

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LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE, LET IT SHINE

Matthew 5:14-16. You are like light for the whole world. A city built on a hill cannot be hid. No one lights a lamp and puts it under a bowl; instead he puts it on a lampstand, where it gives light for everyone in the house. In the same way your light must shine before people, so that they will see the good things you do and praise your Father in heaven.

I am reading “Three Cups of Tea” by Greg Mortenson. Greg is a very selfless young American mountain climber who has spent many years of his life building schools for the children in remote villages of northern Pakistan and Afghanistan. He was especially concerned about educating girls, because he feels that they are very important in molding future generations. Greg says, “By building relationships, and getting a community to invest its own land and labor, we can construct and maintain a school for a generation that will educate thousands of children for less than twenty thousand dollars. That's about half what it would cost the government of Pakistan to build the same school, and one-fifth of what the World Bank would spend on the same project.”

He quoted Mother Teresa, “What we are trying to do may be just a drop in the ocean. But the ocean would be less because of that missing drop.”

Greg didn't seem to care about “things”, but he did care about people, and he certainly was a shining light. He used his own money, and gave up material comforts. After 9/11, things changed so much in Pakistan and Afghanistan. But Greg never gave up on the children of Pakistan and Afghanistan. And his influence and work still goes on. He epitomizes the old Sunday School song: “This little light of mine--I'm gonna' let it shine, let it shine, let it shine, let it shine.” We have some Greg Mortensons at Eastridge Church, too. Maybe they don't go across the ocean, or climb high mountains, but they certainly give out a lot of light to the world, and they certainly show God's love to others.

Prayer: Dear God, Energize us anew to be shining examples of your love. We thank you so much for all the blessings you have given us. Help us to really appreciate them. Forgive us for our ungratefullness. Amen

Gerry Draney

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Title: Welcome!

Scripture: Welcome one another, then, just a Christ has welcomed you, in order to bring praise to God. Romans 15:7

Reflection: This scripture has been on the New Member bulletin board as a reminder for us to welcome our new members into the congregation. However, it should also serve as a reminder to welcome not only those who choose to join but also to welcome all visitors, our fellow members, and even those who have never even been to our church. I understand that there are people who only come to church at Easter and Christmas, if this is true then isn't it our duty as Christians to try to search out these people and make sure they are welcomed into our family? Why not invite a neighbor, friend, teacher, coworker or a delivery person to go to church with you? The worst that could happen is that they would say no thank you. The best that could happen is that they would start a wonderful, fulfilling relationship with God and our congregational family.

Every Sunday our church has an average of 20 visitors in attendance. Most of those people don't know anyone in our church and are just looking for a friendly face to welcome them. Surveys show that most visitors are looking for friendliness and warmth, a place where they feel they can “fit in”. I have often heard that people are concerned with how to “recognize” visitors. Is this really all that important? If we don't recognize someone, we should just introduce ourselves. This allows us to meet someone new, whether they are a visitor or a long time member of our church family. If each of us were to smile and say good morning to an unfamiliar face that would make all the difference in the world.

Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, please help us to bring praise to you by making an extra effort to welcome our brothers and sisters into your family. Amen.

Sue Anne Philson

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TITLE: Is Our Faith For Real?

SCRIPTURE: Matthew 5:16 Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father who is in heaven.

REFLECTION: A young father wanted to teach his two-year old son what faith is. So he boosted him up on a table, stood back several feet and commanded, “Jump, son, jump.”

“I can’t , Daddy, I’m afraid,” replied the little boy.

“I’ll catch you,” said the father. “Look right at me and jump.”

The boy drew himself up, ready to jump, but stopped to look at the floor below and hesitated again, “I’m still afraid.”

“Son didn’t I tell you I would catch you? Do you think Daddy would let you fall? Don’t take your eyes off me. Do not look at the floor. Jump.”

The boy leaped into his father’s arms. “WOW.” He said. “Daddy, let me jump again.” He was confident that his father would be there to catch him.

How many times have we doubted God? The secret is to look away from the difficulty we fear, and keep our eyes fixed on God, who never fails us.

You and I trust in God. But, does it show? We are Christians, right? However if we were on trial and accused of being a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict us?

The inscription on a highway plaque in a small town reads, “on September 1, 1894, a forest fire swept over this area and 450 people lost their lives.” A single match was thrown away and started the fire. One LITTLE match. Sometimes we look at our lives and tell ourselves that our LITTLE life doesn’t count for much. But a Christian, with the help of Jesus could be an influence that might win 450 souls for God’s kingdom.

Every day people are watching us, observing the things we say, seeing how we live, how we react to circumstances. They are watching to see if our faith means anything. Now then, we must have God’s help, God’s Blessings to be an effective “pulpit.” We need to say every once in awhile, “Hey God, wind me up, I have run down again.”

Florence Nightingale once said, “If I could describe my life, I would simply show you haw a woman of very ordinary ability has been led by God in strange paths to do His service. If I could tell you everything you would see how God has done all and I nothing.”

Let us never forget, faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see. What more could we ask for? Let us approach God’s throne, then, where He is waiting for us. There we will box in humble adoration and proclaim my God how GREAT Thou art.

PRAYER: Go, God’s children, with His blessing, you are never alone. Waking, sleeping, He is with you, you are His own. In His love’s baptismal river He has made you His forever. Go, God’s children, with His blessing, you are His and never alone. Amen.

Bob Schiebinger

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TITLE: Comfort in Christ

TEXT: “What is your only comfort, in life and in death?” - Heidelberg Catechism.

REFLECTION:

“What is your only comfort, in life and in death?” This is the first question asked in the Heidelberg Catechism. The question is carefully phrased, leaving little room for a thoughtless or superficial answer. Immediately, the words, “only” and “death” jump off the page. What is my only comfort? Certainly not warm food, soft couches, and a good nights sleep. Stuff like that is too temporal, here one moment and gone the next. How about a loving family, a solid reputation, or a positive attitude? These things are definitely more enduring. Plus, they are accepted by many as keys to a good life. But that pesky word, only, requires a more focused answer. Pick the only comfort! And you can’t just pick the MOST comforting thing. You have to narrow it down to the ONLY comfort in life and in death.

The inclusion of the last two words, “in death”, helps us in our search for an answer. If asked, “What is your only comfort in life?” you could probably rattle off several good answers. However, if someone raised the stakes and asked, “What is your only comfort in death?” your options would dwindle considerably. For most, especially those who faithfully read these devotions, it wouldn’t take long to come up with a definitive answer.

Of course, as it is with catechisms, we are not expected to come up with our own answer. The response is already written. “That I belong – body and soul, in life and in death – not to myself but to my faithful Savior, Jesus Christ…” This response, written in 1562, is just as true today as it was then. So take comfort, not only in the right answer, but in the One who abides in you this day and forevermore.

PRAYER: Lord, You are our only true comfort. When all else fades away, You are there. Wrap Your loving arms around us so that we may embrace this glorious truth. Amen.

INVITATION (aka, Shameless Plug): Please join Tim Bayne and I as we co-teach a class on the Book of Confessions. Beginning in September, we will walk the Adult Sunday School class through the Apostles’ Creed, Nicene Creed, Heidelberg Catechism, Westminster Confession, and the Theological Declaration of Barmen. It is a great way to learn about church history, acquire theological knowledge, gain spiritual depth, and prepare for the Year of the Bible.

J.P. Carlson

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